Oct 1, 2023; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins (8) in the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
NFL free agency kicks off in 4.5 weeks, and according to CBS Sports, the Minnesota Vikings’ best option on the open market is to re-sign quarterback Kirk Cousins. The Atlanta Falcons are expected to drop Cousins in the next few weeks, and if so, Minnesota should pounce, says Jared Dubin.
The Cousins angle remains polarizing, but the idea might fit Minnesota’s need for experienced depth while McCarthy’s timeline continues to evolve.
The Vikings would blend the past and future with the move, and it might just make sense if head coach and de facto general manager Kevin O’Connell still thinks Cousins has the juice in 2026.
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CBS Sports Puts Cousins Back in Play for MIN
Yep, Cousins is the recommendation.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins takes the snap during first-quarter action at U.S. Bank Stadium, shown on Dec 8, 2024, as Atlanta faced Minnesota. The image captures Cousins operating against his former team, highlighting pocket mechanics and early-game tempo in a high-profile matchup that drew added attention from both sidelines. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
CBS Sports on Vikings: Reunite with Kirk
Cousins left the Vikings after the 2023 campaign, spending six seasons in Minneapolis and totaling one playoff win along the way.
Dubin claims Minnesota now needs him back: “With the J.J. McCarthy experiment seemingly going off the rails, the Vikings need to bring in a veteran quarterback to compete with him and/or be the backup and fill-in starter in case things don’t go well again.”
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“Cousins is likely set to hit free agency given his contractual situation, and we know he is familiar with both the Vikings and Kevin O’Connell’s system, making this an easy, comfortable fit.”
Other teams, like the Kansas City Chiefs, were connected to men like Breece Hall. Dubin spitballed Trey Hendrickson for the Indianapolis Colts. For Minnesota, it’s Cousins.
Vikings Offseasons Can Never Shake Cousins
Minnesota’s offseason quarterback plan starts with uncertainty. McCarthy’s transition to the NFL has been uneven, defined more by [bad] availability than development. He’s missed roughly 70% of games due to injury, and in his first season as a starter, he finished last in leaguewide efficiency metrics among quarterbacks. Both factoids have pressed the Vikings’ decision-makers to explore a quarterback competition this offseason.
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And that’s where contingency comes into play. If the Vikings recommit to McCarthy in 2026, they’ll need insulation behind him. Cousins checks boxes that few others can. He knows O’Connell’s offense inside and out and has already adjusted to life as a QB2 in Atlanta. He might know his role.
Even when Cousins carried a massive contract in Atlanta, Minnesota kept surfacing as the most logical landing spot in league chatter. With Cousins now more attainable, the logic hasn’t disappeared one bit.
This Time, the Money Would Work
For once, the money wouldn’t be the obstacle for Cousins’s theories. He hasn’t operated in the bargain aisle since his rookie deal — nine years ago — and his reputation for maximizing earnings is Hall of Fame-worthy. At 37, and with Cousins already being paid by Atlanta for 2026, a team can sign him for cheap if he’s released. Think: Russell Wilson to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024.
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In 2026 free agency, the Vikings could realistically sign Cousins at a reduced rate and ask him to stabilize the room for a year or two while McCarthy develops. The decision comes down to philosophy. Minnesota has committed to a forward-facing timeline with McCarthy as QB1. The question is whether the O’Connell is willing to look “backward” at Cousins. Perhaps, perhaps not.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins watches the field during second-quarter play at U.S. Bank Stadium on Dec 8, 2024, as Atlanta met Minnesota. The moment reflects in-game evaluation and communication, capturing Cousins between series while reading coverages and awaiting the next offensive sequence in a charged divisional atmosphere. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Cousins could also be an option for the New York Jets. The Jets Way‘s David Wyatt-Upton wrote this week:
I feel as though the name Kirk Cousins has been swirling around the Jets for a while. We were linked to him before he signed in Atlanta, we were linked with him last off-season and we were linked with him any time his contract was running down in Minnesota. Whether there was any fire to that smoke us unknown, but here we are again. We need a QB, Kirk Cousins is likely to be available, will he finally call NY home?
I will say right from the start that it’s hard to hitch your tent to a QB when you don’t know who the OC will be. You don’t know the style, the system, or the traits that are required to make it all work. But based on the names being mentioned as front-runners for the Jets, I feel relatively confident in stating Cousins would make a lot of sense for the Jets.
Shooting for the Stars?
The argument against Cousins? It feels like a mid-tier solution. Cousins never banked consistent playoff-winning success in Minnesota during his physical prime. Would things get better in the final season or two of his career? If so, how would that happen?
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Subtracting Cousins from the offseason rumor mill, the Vikings could hunt big-name quarterbacks who may or may not be for sale — like Joe Burrow or Lamar Jackson.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray warms up on the field at State Farm Stadium, pictured on Oct 13, 2019, wearing a WVB bow tie patch honoring late owner William V. Bidwill. The image highlights pregame routine and remembrance, blending preparation with tribute as the Cardinals recognized organizational legacy before kickoff. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher/The Republic via Imagn Content Services, LLC
Or the organization could explore realistic trade options for Kyler Murray or Mac Jones. Neither will turn 38 this summer like Cousins. Both are in their 20s.
Cousins to Minnesota would make sense if the Vikings still believe in McCarthy as the long-term QB1. They could sign a reunion contract as a matter of McCarthy insurance.
After four rounds, 64 teams have been sent home and four remain in the hunt for a national championship. Connecticut, Arizona, Michigan and Illinois are en route to Indianapolis, two wins away from winning it all.
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Some of the representatives aren’t much of a surprise, as the top-seeded Wildcats and Wolverines have looked like a tier above the rest of the sport, and anything less than a Final Four appearance would have been a disappointment. The Huskies stunned its away back to a familiar place, and Illinois isn’t really a shocker and are far from an underdog after a very successful season, proving worthy of its spot.
The results of the weekend not only impacted the championship race, but the sport as a whole. Here are the winners and losers of the Elite Eight:
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Winners
UConn’s comeback
UConn Huskies guard Braylon Mullins (24) celebrates after making the game-winning three-point basket against the Duke Blue Devils in the second half during an Elite Eight game of the East Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena.
A return to the Final Four didn’t seem possible when Connecticut was down 19 points late in the first half against Duke, but did the Huskies respond.
UConn clawed back in the second half, slowly chipping away at the lead before a 7-0 run put it in striking distance with under four minutes left. The Blue Devils couldn’t stop the momentum and Connecticut pulled out a shocking victory, punctuated by Braylon Mullins’ 3-pointer at the final second. UConn outscored Duke 44-28 in the final 20 minutes for its third trip to the Final Four in four seasons.
It was one of the largest comebacks in NCAA Tournament history, and UConn made Duke the first No. 1 seed to lose a game after being up by at least 15 points at halftime in an ending for the ages.
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Big Ten
The Big Ten rolls onto the biggest stage with the conference getting two teams into the Final Four with Michigan and Illinois. It’s the first time the conference has accomplished the feat since 2015 and fourth time since 1999.
The tournament has been a Big Ten showcase after seven of its nine teams won their first round game. It put a record four teams in the Elite Eight, and was guaranteed to get at least one Final Four team with the Illinois-Iowa winner, and could’ve had up to three, but two is still a very successful result.
It’s been the winner of every round so far. Now all that’s left is finishing it on top with a 50% shot at a national championship, the first since 2000. It could be sealed with an all-Big Ten title game, very much possible.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) reacts in the first half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) reacts in the first half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Arizona Wildcats center Motiejus Krivas (13) and guard Brayden Burries (5) and forward Tobe Awaka (30) react with the bench in the second half against the LIU Sharks during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Tobe Awaka (30) dunks against the Long Island University Sharks during a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the first half against the Long Island University Sharks in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
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Shadrak Lasu #22 of the Long Island University Sharks defends against Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
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Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats shoots the ball against Mason Porter-Brown #6 of the Long Island University Sharks during the second half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 20, 2026 in San Diego, California.
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats rebounds the ball in front of teammates Koa Peat #10 and Tobe Awaka #30 during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
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Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats speaks with teammates during the first half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half against the Utah State Aggies in the second round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Viejas Arena at San Diego State University on March 22, 2026 in San Diego, California.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Ivan Kharchenkov (8) shoots against the Utah State Aggies in the second half during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) celebrates with guard Brayden Burries (5) after defeating the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) celebrates after defeating the Utah State Aggies during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena.
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Koa Peat #10 of the Arizona Wildcats dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after the game against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 26, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Mar 26, 2026; San Jose, CA, USA; Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
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Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) reaches for a loose ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
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Arizona Wildcats guard Jaden Bradley (0) high-fives Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
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Arizona Wildcats guard Brayden Burries (5) celebrates after a play against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) dunks the ball against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
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Arizona Wildcats forward Koa Peat (10) reacts after a pay against the Arkansas Razorbacks in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the West Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at SAP Center.
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Anthony Dell’orso #3 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts after shooting a three point basket against the Purdue Boilermakers during the second half of a game in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats reacts during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats looks on during the second half of a game against the Purdue Boilermakers in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Bryce James #6, Koa Peat #10 and Brayden Burries #5 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrate after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Brayden Burries #5 and Motiejus Krivas #13 of the Arizona Wildcats celebrate after defeating the defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Ivan Kharchenkov #8 of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Jaden Bradley #0 of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net afterdefeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
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Head coach Tommy Lloyd of the Arizona Wildcats cuts down the net after defeating the Purdue Boilermakers 79-64 in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at SAP Center on March 28, 2026 in San Jose, California.
Breaking droughts
The 2026 Final Four is more than two decades in the making for Arizona and Illinois, getting back to the final stage after falling short so many times.
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Arizona is in the Final Four for the first time since 2001, a relief on the shoulders of the Wildcats after losing all of its past five Elite Eight appearances. They did it in emphatic fashion with a major second half comeback over Purdue to cruise toward a stress-free finish against the Boilermakers. Illinois was able to put away the surprise run against Iowa to reach the semifinals for the first time since 2005, the last time it was close to winning its first national title.
Two successful programs redeemed years of frustrations, and not only have they finally broken through, but they are viable national championship contenders, with Arizona on the verge of its second title and Illinois on the cusp of its biggest accomplishment yet.
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See the best photos of Illinois basketball’s run to 2026 Final Four
Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks the ball against the Penn Quakers in the second half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks the ball against the Penn Quakers in the second half of a first round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) celebrates after scoring Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game against the Penn Quakers at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) is defended by Penn Quakers guard AJ Levine (0) Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Penn Quakers guard Michael Zanoni (7) and Penn Quakers guard AJ Levine (0) defend Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) Thursday, March 19, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament first round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. Illinois Fighting Illini won 105-70.
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Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts with teammates after a basket and a foul during the second half against the Penn Quakers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Ben Humrichous #3 of the Illinois Fighting Illini reacts after making a 3-pointer during the first half against the Penn Quakers in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini drives the ball against Cam Thrower #5 of the Penn Quakers during the first half in the first round of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena on March 19, 2026 in Greenville, South Carolina.
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The Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) reacts after a play during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
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Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates after a play during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) dunks the ball during the second half against the VCU Rams during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Bon Secours Wellness Arena.
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Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) celebrates after scoring Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game against the VCU Rams at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Fans cheer Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the VCU Rams at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Kylan Boswell (4) shakes hands with VCU Rams guard Nyk Lewis (1) March 21, 2026 after the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) reacts after teammate Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) scored March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game with VCU Rams at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) dunks against VCU Rams March 21, 2026 during the second half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) scores near VCU Rams forward Michael Belle (8) March 21, 2026 during the first half of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round East Region game at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Andrej Stojakovic (2) dunks the ball past VCU Rams forward Lazar Djokovic (17) Saturday, March 21, 2026, during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament second round game at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina.
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Zvonimir Ivisic #44 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates against the Houston Cougars during the first half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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Illinois Fighting Illini fans cheer against the Houston Cougars during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini looks for the rebound against the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) grabs a rebound against the Houston Cougars in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots on Houston Cougars forward Kalifa Sakho (14) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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Illinois Fighting Illini forward David Mirkovic (0) reacts against the Houston Cougars in the second half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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Andrej Stojakovic #2 and Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas
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Kylan Boswell #4 and Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Houston Cougars in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 26, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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Illinois Fighting Illini guard Keaton Wagler (23) shoots against Iowa Hawkeyes guard Tavion Banks (6) in the first half during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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(L-R) Keaton Wagler #23, David Mirkovic #0 and Kylan Boswell #4 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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Keaton Wagler #23 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrates after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Zvonimir Ivisic (44) and forward Ben Humrichous (3) celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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Illinois Fighting Illini forward Jake Davis (15) reacts in the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes during an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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(L-R) Keaton Wagler #23, Kylan Boswell #4 and David Mirkovic #0 of the Illinois Fighting Illini celebrate after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Elite Eight of the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Toyota Center on March 28, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
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Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood celebrates with the trophy on the podium after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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Illinois Fighting Illini head coach Brad Underwood celebrates after cutting down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
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Illinois Fighting Illini center Tomislav Ivisic (13) cuts down the net after defeating the Iowa Hawkeyes in an Elite Eight game of the South Regional of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Toyota Center.
Andrej Stojakovic
Watch out dad, son can definitely hoop, too. The son of Peja, Andrej Stojakovic came up clutch for Illinois, a catalyst for his team surviving and advancing.
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Iowa jumped out to a quick double-digit lead, but Stojakovic came in and helped his team recover quickly and eventually win. He made some clutch shots at the end and most importantly, defended Iowa star Bennett Stirtz down the stretch to prevent any late heroics. Even though Keaton Wagler was the star with 25 points, Stojakovic had 17 points and his plus/minus of +19 was the best on the team, proving how vital he was to his team’s success.
The Elite Eight isn’t the only time Stojakovic has come up big in the tournament, but Illinois may have been cooked if he wasn’t the sparkplug he was against the Hawkeyes. His presence keeps his team’s title hopes alive and well.
Losers
Duke chokes
It’s another stunning March loss for Duke. The top overall seed looked destined for the Final Four after jumping to a 19-point lead against UConn in the first half.
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Then came the second half.
The Blue Devils couldn’t stop UConn from rallying at the end, and had the game in its hands in the final seconds, but a shocking turnover turned into a game-winning 3-pointer by the Huskies. UConn outscored Duke 15-5 in the final five minutes. Duke now is the first No. 1 seed in NCAA Tournament history to lose after leading by at least 15 points at halftime, as they were 134-0 in such instances. The 19-point blown lead is tied for the sixth largest in the tournament.
The shocking loss keeps Duke away from winning its first national championship in the Jon Scheyer era, with the last title in 2015. Its the longest the Blue Devils have gone without a championship this century.
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SEC
March doesn’t mean more in the SEC as the conference finishes with a dud to follow its historic past season.
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It was going to be hard to follow up two teams in the Final Four en route to a national champion, but the SEC didn’t get close to replicating some of that success. It only got one team in the Elite Eight in Tennessee, and it got blown out by Michigan. The SEC will not be represented in the semifinals for the first time since 2023.
To add insult to injury, the conference did not do well against its fellow Power league in the Big Ten. The SEC went 0-5 vs. Big Ten teams in the tournament, which ended up getting two teams to the Final Four. After an amazing showing in 2025, this one has been a forgettable month in the Southeast.
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Lower seeds
Make way for the heavyweights. The 2026 Final Four will feature two No. 1 seeds, a No. 2 and a No. 3 seed, another season of no surprise runs to the semifinals.
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While it’s no surprise when the favorites at the start of the tournament ended up making it to the final weekend, it’s exactly what happened last season when we had an all-No. 1 group. This marks back-to-back years where the Final Four doesn’t feature a team seeded No. 4 or lower, which hasn’t happened since a three-year streak from 2007-09.
This year’s tournament had upsets and some magical runs, but none of them reached the final stage. Are even really solid teams going to have trouble winning a region, and are true Cinderellas dead?
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Tennessee
Another Elite Eight, another exit for Rocky Top. The Volunteers are left searching again for their first Final Four after getting stopped at the doorstep.
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Tennessee’s optimism was quickly wiped out early against Michigan, leading to a 33-point rout in one of the largest blowouts in Elite Eight history. While the Vols have nothing to be ashamed about given it was a good run as a No. 6 seed, it’s the third straight season the Vols were eliminated in the regional final.
Rick Barnes has maintained winning in Knoxville, but after coming up short so often, will Tennessee ever get over the hump?
On Thursday, Feb. 26, the Arkansas Racing Commission unanimously approved FanDuel and DraftKings for sports wagering vendor licenses for Arkansas sports betting. Arkansas sports betting has been legal since 2019, with Arkansas online sports betting launching in 2022.
National sportsbooks initially stayed away from Arkansas, largely due to apprehension about a revenue split that forces third-party operators to give more than half their revenue to its in-state partner. However, DraftKings and FanDuel have accepted that split, as DraftKings partners with Oaklawn Casino, while FanDuel partners with Southland Casino Hotel to take over their Arkansas sports betting apps. Click here to create your DraftKings Arkansas account:
Arkansas Sports Betting (March 2026 Updates)
New Arkansas sports betting apps launch date
March 20, 2026
New Arkansas sportsbooks
DraftKings, FanDuel
Arkansas sports betting regulator
Arkansas Racing Commission
Last updated:
March 30, 2026
History of Arkansas sports betting and latest news
May 2018: The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) is deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, allowing states to legalize sports betting.
November 6, 2018: Arkansas voters pass Issue 4 (Amendment 100), which authorized casino gaming and legal sports betting at licensed casinos.
July 1, 2019: The first legal sports bet is placed in Arkansas, a $5 wager on the Dallas Cowboys at Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Read more on this here.
April 2021: House Bill 1942 is passed, setting the framework for online sports betting.
December 30, 2021: The Arkansas Racing Commission approves the 51% revenue-sharing rule, meaning 51% of revenues from third-party operators, such as FanDuel and DraftKings, goes to the in-state partner, with the other 49% going to the third-party operator.
February 22, 2022: Arkansas Legislative Council accepts and finalizes the 51% revenue-sharing rule. Read more on this here.
March 5, 2022: Southland Casino launches Betly for Arkansas online sports betting.
May 10, 2022: Saracen Casino’s BETSaracen app launches.
August 2022: Oaklawn Sports mobile app goes live.
Sept 24, 2024: Arkansas sportsbooks clear $1 billion in total handle
February 26, 2026: DraftKings and FanDuel are granted sports wagering vendor licenses from the Arkansas Racing Commission. Read more on this here.
March 20, 2026: FanDuel and DraftKings launch sports betting operations in Arkansas.
FanDuel is one of the nation’s most popular and highly rated sportsbooks. It offers thousands of spreads, money lines, totals, props, and more for professional sports, both domestically and internationally, as well as college sports. FanDuel is known for its easy-to-use, aesthetically pleasing blue-and-white interface, competitive odds and wide market options.
The Arkansas FanDuel promo code offers new users $300 in bonus bets if your first $5 bet wins.
The FanDuel Sportsbook app can be downloaded on both Apple and Android systems.
FanDuel offers a variety of ways to deposit and withdraw, with most withdrawal methods paying out in less than a day. Users who withdraw via debit card, PayPal and Venmo are paid out within 24 hours. Online banking may take up to five days. Mailed checks arrive within 10 business days of being mailed.
DraftKings got its start as a daily fantasy sports platform before evolving into one of the most recognized sportsbooks in the country. That DFS DNA shows in its interface, as DraftKings leans into stats, player data, and same-game parlays in a way that appeals to more engaged, research-driven bettors.
New users in Arkansas can take advantage of the DraftKings promo code, which delivers $300 instantly in bonus bets after placing a first bet of just $5.
The DraftKings Sportsbook app is available for download on both iOS and Android devices.
DraftKings supports multiple deposit and withdrawal methods, with payout timelines varying depending on the option selected. Common withdrawal methods include PayPal, debit card, online banking, and mailed checks.
On Feb. 26, the Arkansas Racing Commission approved Oaklawn Casino’s partnership with FanDuel and Southland Casino Hotel’s partnership with DraftKings. FanDuel and DraftKings can launch sportsbook promos and betting sites immediately.
Oaklawn Sports, an Arkansas betting app that operated under Oaklawn Casino’s license, will no longer be operational and will instead use the FanDuel app “powered by Oaklawn Sports.”
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DraftKings operates under Southland Casino Hotel’s license, which was previously used by Betly, for Arkansas online sports betting.
Saracen Casino Resort did not enter a licensing partnership with a national sportsbook and continues with its BETSaracen app.
Southland Casino Hotel, Oaklawn Casino and Saracen Casino Resort, Arkansas’ three commercial casinos, can each operate two sportsbook apps. All Arkansas betting apps must operate under a 51%-49% revenue split, which favors in-state casinos, and that’s unchanged by the FanDuel and DraftKings partnerships.
These Arkansas betting apps can launch immediately. These new partnerships do not include prediction markets, only online sports betting.
The Arkansas Racing Commission regulates racing, casino betting and sports betting, both in-person and online, in Arkansas. It operates under the authority of the Arkansas state government and is made up of appointed members. The Arkansas Racing Commission offers online services at its website (www.dfa.arkansas.gov/office/racing-commission), as well as correspondence in person, on the phone, or through email.
Address
1515 W. 7th Street Ste. 505, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone
501-682-1467
Email
racing.@dfa.arkansas.gov
Where does Arkansas sports betting tax revenue go?
According to the National Conference of State Legislators, 55% of the tax Arkansas sportsbooks pay goes to the state general fund, 27.5% goes to the city and county where the casino is located, and 17.5% goes to the Arkansas Racing Commission for deposit into its Purse and Awards Fund. Arkansas sportsbooks pay a 13% tax rate on the first $150 million in gaming revenue, then 20% on all revenue above $150 million. According to the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration, the state collected $7.229 million in tax revenue from sports betting between January and October 2025.
Responsible gambling in Arkansas
Arkansas has multiple problem gambling helplines, including the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET and the Arkansas Problem Gambling Council at 501-403-2321.
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FAQ
Is sports betting legal in Arkansas?
Yes, Arkansas sports betting has been legal since 2019, with online sports betting launching in 2022.
Will new Arkansas sportsbooks have promo codes?
Historically, FanDuel, DraftKings and many major sportsbooks have offered promo codes when launching in new states. Both FanDuel and DraftKings are offering lucrative welcome promos to new users in Arkansas.
Is DraftKings legal in Arkansas?
Yes, after the Feb. 26 decision by the Arkansas Racing Commission, DraftKings Sportsbook is legal through Southland Casino Hotel’s license.
Is FanDuel in Arkansas yet?
Yes, after the Feb. 26 decision by the Arkansas Racing Commission, FanDuel Sportsbook is legal and is “powered by” Oaklawn Sports.
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Can I use Caesars Sportsbook in Arkansas?
No, and there’s no current momentum for that to change soon. However, there are available Arkansas sports betting licenses if Caesars or other sports betting apps become interested.
Do I need to be a resident in order to bet in Arkansas?
No, you do not need to be an Arkansas resident to use Arkansas sports betting apps. However, you do need to be physically located in the state when Arkansas sports betting.
Which sports can I bet on in Arkansas?
Arkansas has no restrictions on traditional professional sports or college sports, in-state or out-of-state, for Arkansas online sports betting. This allows Arkansas sports bettors to wager on the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college football, college basketball and more. However, you can not wager on eSports or prediction markets.
What is the legal age for sports betting in Arkansas?
Users must be 21 to participate in Arkansas sports betting.
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How many online sportsbooks are in Arkansas?
Three — FanDuel (Oaklawn), DraftKings (Southland) and BETSaracen (Saracen Casino). All three casinos can partner with a second sportsbook, though.
What betting markets are available in Arkansas?
Arkansas online sports betting allows spreads, money lines, futures, props, and more for professional and college sports. You can also wager on awards, such as the MLB MVP or NFL Coach of the Year, which isn’t allowed in every state with online sports betting.
Will DraftKings and FanDuel be able to bring prediction markets to Arkansas?
No, the February 26th decision only allowed FanDuel and DraftKings to operate in a sports betting capacity in Arkansas.
An emotional subplot will headline Monday’s IPL clash as Sanju Samson faces Rajasthan Royals for the first time after leading them for over a decade. Now with Chennai Super Kings, Samson — RR’s former captain and all-time leading run-scorer — returns in top form following a stellar T20 World Cup campaign, where he struck three successive half-centuries.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!His move, part of a high-profile swap that saw Ravindra Jadeja rejoin Rajasthan, adds further intrigue. With MS Dhoni sidelined due to injury, Samson will share leadership duties with Ruturaj Gaikwad at the top.CSK appear in transition, bolstered by emerging talents and a varied bowling attack. Meanwhile, Rajasthan begin a new era under Riyan Parag, with Yashasvi Jaiswal leading the batting alongside Shimron Hetmyer.While RR boast explosive batting options, concerns linger over their bowling consistency. Both sides, coming off underwhelming 2025 campaigns, will view this clash as a chance to reset and rebuild momentum.
Top 5 players to watch in RR vs CSK clash
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (15 years old)The Rajasthan Royals opener enters his second IPL season carrying significant expectations after a sensational debut year. At just 14, he scripted history by becoming the youngest centurion in men’s T20 cricket, hammering 101 off 38 balls against Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025. His century came off just 35 deliveries, making it the second-fastest in IPL history. Across seven matches, he piled up 252 runs at a staggering strike rate of 206.55, underlining his fearless approach at the top. Against Chennai Super Kings last season, he scored a brisk 57 off 33 balls, including four sixes and four fours. His explosive powerplay batting makes him a key figure for RR once again.Riyan Parag (24 years old)Riyan Parag begins his first full season as Rajasthan Royals captain following Sanju Samson’s exit, taking charge at his home ground. One of the youngest captains in IPL history, Parag has steadily grown into a central figure for the franchise since his debut in 2019. In IPL 2025, he led the side in eight matches and scored 393 runs, emerging as RR’s second-highest run-getter with a strike rate of 166.52. His breakthrough came in 2024 when he amassed 573 runs in 16 matches at an average of 52.09. Overall, Parag has 1566 runs from 84 games at a strike rate of 141.84. Against CSK, he has scored 122 runs in eight matches, with a highest score of 47.Sanju Samson (31 years old)Sanju Samson will be in the spotlight as he turns out in Chennai Super Kings colours for the first time after being the face of Rajasthan Royals for over a decade. Having played 11 seasons with RR, he remains their all-time leading run-scorer with over 4000 runs. Overall, Samson has accumulated 4704 runs in 177 IPL matches at an average of 30.94 and a strike rate of 139.04, including three centuries and 26 fifties. He comes into the season in excellent touch after a Player-of-the-Tournament performance in the T20 World Cup 2026. His first outing against RR adds emotional weight, making him one of the biggest attractions in this contest.Kartik Sharma (19 years old)Kartik Sharma is a young wicketkeeper-batter, known for his power-hitting abilities. He became the joint-most expensive uncapped Indian player in IPL auction history when Chennai Super Kings signed him for Rs 14.2 crore. After being part of CSK’s wider squad in IPL 2025, he has now broken into the main squad for the 2026 season. If included in the playing XI, Sharma could make his debut, bringing with him the reputation of an aggressive young finisher.Ayush Mhatre (18 years old)Ayush Mhatre, another exciting young talent, enters his second IPL season after making a strong impression in 2025. He scored 240 runs in seven matches at an average of 34.28 and a remarkable strike rate of 188.97, including a high score of 94. Initially unsold at the IPL 2025 auction, Mhatre earned a mid-season call-up to Chennai Super Kings due to an injury to Ruturaj Gaikwad and made an immediate impact. Against Rajasthan Royals, he struck 43 off 20 at a strike rate of 215, showcasing his aggressive batting style.
One of the endgame activities, Pure Fiction, has received a new cycle in Honkai Star Rail 4.1. With that, players now get fresh challenges with brand-new enemy lineups. Since the activity is quite tough to beat, players are compelled to build top-of-the-line teams to get all the rewards it offers.
This article lists the best teams for the Honkai Star Rail 4.1 Pure Fiction.
Note: Some aspects of this article are subjective and reflect the author’s opinions.
Exploring the best teams for Honkai Star Rail 4.1 Pure Fiction, Virtual Made Manifest
All HSR 4.1 Pure Fiction Node buffs (Image via HoYoverse)
Let’s take a look at all the buffs you can use in Honkai Star Rail 4.1’s Pure Fiction:
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Memory: When Surging Grit gets triggered, it regenerates 3 Skill Points and all enemies take 30% more damage from DoTs.
Streets Abuzz: While Surging Grit is active, all allies deal 50% extra Follow-Up ATK damage. When an allied character unleashes a FUA, the entire team gains a Resound stack.
Commotion: During Surging Grit, all allies’ SPD gets boosted by 35%. When an allied unit consumes Resound, a Skill Point will be replenished.
Node 1
Sparxie (Image via HoYoverse)
While the enemy lineup in every stage of the Honkai Star Rail 4.1 Pure Fiction is different, they somewhat share the same weakness types. However, the first three stages aren’t that challenging compared to the last one. The first Node of Stage 4 features Argenti, the Knight of Beauty. Here are some teams you can use to clear the first Node:
Sparxie, Yao Guang, Sparkle, and Dan Heng Permansor Terrae
The Herta, Anaxa, Tribbie, and Dan Heng PT
Phainon, Cerydra, Sunday, Dan Heng Permansor Terrae
Since Argenti is weak to the Fire and Physical Elements, we have recommended the Sparxie Elation and Phainon hypercarry compositions. Both teams are exceptionally powerful and are capable of dealing damage to multiple enemies simultaneously.
On the other hand, The Herta team can be used in this Node as Anaxa can place weakness types on the enemies. Hence, you can easily use this composition in both nodes. Since there is not much difference in these teams, you can just use the Commotion buff.
Node 2
Ashveil (Image via HoYoverse)
As for Honkai Star Rail 4.1 Pure Fiction’s Node 2, you will fight Sam, alongside some others. The Stellaron Hunter is weak to Quantum, Lightning, and Imaginary Elements. The following section lists some teams that can help you clear Virtual Made Manifest:
Kafka, Black Swan, Hysilens, and Huohuo
Ashveil, Sunday, Tribbie, and Dan Heng Permansor Terrae
Archer, Sparkle, Yao Guang, and Dan Heng PT
The Kafka DoT team is quite strong in this particular cycle, as the Memory buff can boost the entire team’s damage output by a substantial amount. Since Kafka wields the Lightning Element, she can easily deal toughness as well as DoT damage to Sam.
Moving over to the Archer and Ashveil teams, both work differently because of their unique playstyle. However, their damage output is exceptionally high, and they specialize in defeating one enemy at a time. Like the Kafka team, these two also deal consistent damage throughout the fight.
For more articles related to this turn-based gacha title from HoYoverse, Honkai Star Rail, check out the following section:
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Wolff and Mercedes are also looking at buying private investment firm Otro Capital’s 24% shares in Alpine.
Wolff said there is “no connection” with Horner in regards that investment and it would be “quite sad” if that was a consideration.
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“I am in two minds about it [Horner returning to F1]. The sport is missing personalities. And his personality was clearly very controversial and that is good for the sport,” Wolff said.
“I said to [Ferrari team principal] Fred Vasseur that it needs the good, the bad, and the ugly. And it is now only the good and the ugly left. The bad is gone.
“Would I consider that he could ever be an ally or someone that shares objectives? I don’t think so.
“But even when I had the biggest frustration, and anger with him, you need to remind yourself that even your worst enemy has a best friend, so there must be some goodness.
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“If there wasn’t that competitive rivalry over so many years, and if there was more water down the river, I am sure I could have had hung with him over dinner and a had a laugh.”
Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won four consecutive drivers’ titles from 2021 to 2024, ending Mercedes’ dominance with Lewis Hamilton, who was controversially denied five straight titles.
Horner, who has said he has “unfinished business” in F1, was last year overlooked to take over at Aston Martin.
“Over those years it was just too intense, too fierce, and things happened which even today I cannot comprehend why he has done them,” Wolff said.
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“I don’t know if he is finding his way back, and in which function. I certainly don’t wish him bad. And we need to give each other credit. There are not many team principals who have done what he has done.”
Minnesota Vikings running back Zavier Scott (36) carries the ball during second-half action against the Cincinnati Bengals, with the play unfolding on Sep 21, 2025 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, as Scott pushes upfield through traffic while contributing to the offense in a regular season home matchup. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.
The Minnesota Vikings will add at least nine new players from the 2026 NFL Draft, barring trades, a significant jump from the number last year, when the purple team had just five picks entering the event. And because nine newcomers are on the way, some existing players may be demoted sooner rather than later.
Several Vikings could lose ground when the rookie class arrives.
Here’s a look at the players hoping to avoid demotions, listed in alphabetical order.
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Current Minnesota Players Facing the Most Draft Pressure
Job security is at risk.
Minnesota Vikings guard Blake Brandel (64) goes through his pregame routine, Nov. 10, 2024, at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida, before facing the Jaguars as the versatile lineman prepares for another role along the offensive front amid injuries and lineup shifts during the season. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images.
Blake Brandel | C
Ryan Kelly retired a few weeks ago, and the Vikings signed zero center replacements in free agency. For now, the starting job appears to belong to Brandel, though third-year center Michael Jurgens might contest that this summer.
But if the Vikings draft one of these men in the draft’s first four rounds, Brandel could be back to his do-everything OL role:
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Connor Lew (Auburn)
Sam Hecht (Kansas State)
Jake Slaughter (Florida)
Logan Jones (Iowa)
Parker Brailsford (Alabama)
It’s worth noting that Brandel improved each week last season at center in relief of Kelly.
Tai Felton | WR
Felton played 46 offensive snaps as a rookie, used primarily as a special teamer, which is fine, but most onlookers thought a 3rd-Round wideout would be used on offense. No cigar.
The Vikings didn’t re-sign Jalen Nailor, as the speedster vamoosed for Las Vegas, his hometown, to be the Raiders’ WR1 or WR2. That leaves Felton in a league of his own at WR3. There is no other wide receiver on the depth chart to even remotely compete for the WR3 job.
Still, if Minnesota drafts one of these men, Felton could be on notice, at least as far as the WR3 job is concerned:
Like Nailor leaving for the Raiders, Ingram-Dawkins’s DT teammates, Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, found new homes with the Cincinnati Bengals and Green Bay Packers, respectively.
But just like Felton, if the Vikings draft one of these defensive tackles next month, Ingram-Dawkins may remain a reserve commodity:
Peter Woods (Clemson)
Kayden McDonald (Ohio State)
Caleb Banks (Florida)
Lee Hunter (Texas Tech)
Christen Miller (Georgia)
Domonique Orange (Iowa State)
Gracen Halton (Oklahoma)
Darrell Jackson Jr. (Florida State)
Dontay Corleone (Cincinnati)
Zane Durant (Penn State)
Zxavian Harris (Mississippi)
DeMonte Capehart (Clemson)
Chris McClellan (Missouri)
Kaleb Proctor (Southeastern Louisiana)
Tim Keenan III (Alabama)
Ingram-Dawkins saw defensive action on roughly 250 snaps as a rookie, a worthwhile amount for a late-round rookie.
Zavier Scott | RB
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Scott probably has the shakiest job security on the list. By trade, he’s a practice squader who was promoted to the active roster last year. That may not last long.
Minnesota Vikings running back Zavier Scott (36) carries the ball during the second quarter, Aug. 16, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, against the New England Patriots as he looks for running room while contributing in a preseason matchup for the Vikings offense. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.
Minnesota has 31-year-old Aaron Jones back for another run, and Jordan Mason is tentatively expected to fill the RB1 job. Most fans agree that Kevin O’Connell’s team needs an early-round running back from the draft for the first time since the Dalvin Cook and Alexander Mattison days. All signs point to Minnesota acquiescing to the fans’ request.
If you see the Vikings draft one of these tailbacks, that could be the end of the road for Scott on the 53-man roster:
Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame)
Jadarian Price (Notre Dame)
Mike Washington Jr. (Arkansas)
Jonah Coleman (Washington)
Emmett Johnson (Nebraska)
Nick Singleton (Penn State)
Demond Claiborne (Wake Forest)
Kaytron Allen (Penn State)
Kaelon Black (Indiana)
Seth McGowan (Kentucky)
The Vikings have formally met with Washington Jr. and Johnson via pre-draft visit.
Jay Ward | S
If Harrison Smith retires — he probably would’ve announced that by now, so most assume Smith will be back for Year No. 15 — Ward’s job security will rocket to the heavens. Ward was surprisingly effective in 2025, even snatching Theo Jackson’s starting job in December.
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Tennessee Titans wide receiver Racey McMath (13) is brought down by Minnesota Vikings defenders Jay Ward (20) and Kalon Barnes (27), Aug. 19, 2023, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as multiple defenders converge to stop the play during a preseason matchup between the teams. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Nelles-Imagn Images.
But like all the men on this list, Ward must dodge the draft selection of one of these safeties:
Thieneman is a massive draft darling for the Vikings at the moment. After you close this article, type into Google “NFL mock draft,” and we’re willing to bet that article connects Thieneman to Minnesota with the 18th pick.
Reigning and undisputed ONE bantamweight kickboxing world champion and former Muay Thai king, ‘The General’ Jonathan Haggerty of the United Kingdom, is known for his powerful teep kick, which he has worked on for his entire life.
But that kick didn’t come about naturally. It was painstakingly developed over the years through repetition and practice.
Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more
‘The General’ said:
“My teeps were just part of my game from a very young age. I was building that technique from the very beginning. I was quite tall for my weight category growing up through the ranks in the UK, and using the teep was quite effective. So I just continued building it brick by brick. Why stop if it’s working, you know? I just kept building what works, really.”
‘The General’ Jonathan Haggerty is set to defend his ONE bantamweight kickboxing world championship against Japanese star Yuki Yoza at ONE SAMURAI 1, which will take place live at the Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, on Wednesday, April 29.
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Fans in the United States and Canada can visit ONE Championship’s official website for more information on how to watch the event live from their location.
Jonathan Haggerty admits that ‘getting in that ring is very scary’: “I fight better with fear”
‘The General’ Jonathan Haggerty will be the first to admit that climbing into the ONE Championship ring is one of the most harrowing ordeals a fighter can experience. But because of that fear, he says he can fight at his best.
“When I think of fear, I think of my body shaking, adrenaline, and like scared. To overcome it, just block it out. I just block it out. As I said, getting in that ring is very scary. It’s a lot of fear. And getting past that. I need fear to fight. I fight better with fear.”
Stay tuned to Sportskeeda MMA for all the latest news and updates surrounding Jonathan Haggerty’s next fight.
Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa kicked off his campaign at the prestigious Candidates Tournament by breaking through the defenses of Dutchman Anish Giri to secure a full point and now shares the lead after the first round with American GM Fabiano Caruana and Uzbekistan’s Javokhir Sindarov in Paphos. In an eventful first round, World Cup champion Sindarov showcased his excellent tactical skill to turn the tables on Russia’s Andrey Esipenko, while pre-event favourite Caruana stunned fellow American Hikaru Nakamura. The other game of the eight-player double round-robin tournament between Germany’s Matthias Bluebaum and China’s Wei Yi ended in a stalemate with both players sharing a point.
In the women’s section being held simultaneously, Indian Grandmaster and Women’s World Cup champion Divya Deshmukh drew with Ukraine’s Anna Muzychuk, a last-minute replacement for Koneru Humpy, while R. Vaishali survived some anxious moments before sharing the point with Kazakhstan’s Bibisara Assaubayeva.
It was, in fact, a day of stalemates in the womens’ section as Russia’s Aleksandra Goryachkina drew with compatriot Kateryna Lagno and the all-Chinese clash between Zhu Jiner and Tan Zhongyi also ended in a shared point.
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Praggnanandhaa had been struggling in recent months leading up to the Candidates but has now bounced back in style, and Giri, one of the most consistent and solid players on the circuit, was simply no match for him on Saturday.
It was a battle of nerves as the Indian began with the Grand Prix Aatack to challenge Giri’s Sicilian Defense with the black pieces, and whether the opening achieved its intended effect is debatable, but it certainly gave Praggnanandhaa a valuable lead on the clock.
Giri is not used to surprises and while he was resourceful enough in the early middle game and equalised, Praggnanandhaa won a pawn in the ensuing rook-and-minor-pieces endgame.
Giri, running low on time, blundered in a lost rook-and-pawns endgame with a pawn less. The rest was easy for Praggnanandhaa.
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But perhaps the most impressive game was played by Caruana who used his white pieces to perfection.
Nakamura was close to levelling the game as the middle game arrived, but the American, who is currently more active as a streamer than as a player, found himself in an opposite-coloured bishops middle game where his bishop was restricted to a passive role.
Caruana sealed the game with precise calculation in the endgame.
The Candidates is being contested in both the Open and Women’s sections to determine the challengers for the next World Championship matches against reigning champions D Gukesh and Ju Wenjun of China.
Women: Aleksandra Goryachkina (Rus) drew with Kateryna Lagno (Rus); R Vaishali (Ind) drew with Bibisara Assaubayeva (Kaz); Divya Deshmukh (Ind) drew with Anna Muzychuk (Ukr); Jiner Zhu (Chn) drew with Zhongyi Tan (Chn).
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
As Arizona prepares to play in its fifth all-time Final Four on Saturday, we’ve compiled a list of all such appearances by schools in the West.
The region boasts 19 Final Four teams, 12 of which have made two or more appearances, led by UCLA with 19, Arizona with five, and Utah and UNLV each with four.
But before we get to the list, for those who may be interested, a little history.
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The NCAA recognizes Final Four appearances since the first tournament in 1939, even though only eight teams participated in the tournament from 1939 to 1950.
Between 1939 and 1950, there were only eight teams in the tournament, so half of the teams can claim a Final Four appearance.
However, since 1985, all have been required to play at least three games to make the Final Four.
Here is the list of participating schools from the region.
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All-Time Final Four Appearances by Schools in the West
NEW DELHI: Former India captain Anil Kumble believes a resurgent Rohit Sharma could spell trouble for the rest of the IPL, after the Mumbai Indians opener announced his return in style with a match-winning knock against Kolkata Knight Riders.Rohit smashed a scintillating 78 off just 38 balls to power MI to a six-wicket win in their season opener at the Wankhede Stadium, ending their long-standing jinx of losing the first match of an IPL campaign.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Kumble was particularly struck by the authority and ease with which Rohit dominated quality bowling, calling it a sign of a dangerous new phase in his career.“Rohit Sharma seems to have arrived in his 2.0 avatar, and his innings showed he is ready to dominate again. The way he hit the ball all around the ground reminded me of his prime,” Kumble said on Star Sports.The former India coach highlighted how Rohit made light work of a potent spin attack featuring Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, along with pacer Blessing Muzarabani.“It is not easy to hit sixes against bowlers like Varun Chakravarthy, Sunil Narine and Blessing Muzarabani, but he made it look easy. He has worked a lot on his fitness… when you come back after a short break, it takes time to find rhythm,” Kumble noted.“This was a fantastic innings… the six-hitting looked easy, and even though the boundaries were small, those shots were going into the stands. This knock shows that Rohit means business and this version of him will worry all IPL teams,” he added.KKR’s spin strategy under scrutinyWhile praising Rohit, Kumble also pointed out tactical lapses from Kolkata Knight Riders, particularly their under-utilisation of key spinners.“KKR are relying too much on Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy, and Narine did not even complete his quota, which was surprising. The disappointing part was that Ajinkya Rahane did not bring him on in the Powerplay,” he said.According to Kumble, the delay in introducing Narine proved costly as Mumbai’s openers had already taken control.“By the time Narine came on, the damage was already done… they need to use their resources better. When you have two world-class spinners, you need to use them well,” he added.
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