May 27, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart (30) brings the ball up court while defended by Phoenix Mercury forward Marta Suarez (77) during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images
Marine Johannes scored a game-high 21 points and her New York Liberty went on a 23-0 run to close the third quarter en route to an 84-74 win over the visiting Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday.
Johannes made a career-high seven 3-pointers, missing just twice from long range. The Liberty also got 17 points and 12 rebounds from Jonquel Jones, while Breanna Stewart contributed 11 points and six boards.
Kahleah Copper led Phoenix with 19 points, but she shot just 6 of 18 from the floor. Natasha Mack added 14 points, and Alyssa Thomas posted nine points, seven rebounds and nine assists.
New York (4-4) broke a three-game losing streak, its worst skid since 2002. Phoenix (2-6) took its fourth loss in a row.
The contest was a rematch of last year’s playoffs, when Phoenix eliminated New York by winning two of three in a first-round series.
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Two players made their season debut: New York’s Leonie Fiebich and Phoenix’s Monique Akoa Makani. Fiebich, who was late to the party because she was finishing her Spanish League season, scored nine points in 33 minutes. Akoa Makani, who was finishing her season in France, put up nine points in 19 minutes.
In addition, New York’s Betnijah Laney-Hamilton returned after missing three games due to personal reasons. She scored seven points off the bench.
New York was without All-Stars Sabrina Ionescu (sore back) and Satou Sabally (illness). Sabally played for Phoenix last year.
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The Liberty led 24-22 after an exciting first quarter that included 12 points and three assists from Johannes. She made 4 of 5 from 3-point range and also had a behind-the-back pass for an assist.
Phoenix took its first lead of the game, 31-29, on a Copper 3-pointer with 7:03 left in the second quarter, capping a 7-0 run. By halftime, Phoenix led, 43-42.
The second quarter featured six Liberty turnovers and none by Phoenix.
Johannes led all first-half scorers with 15 points on 5-for-6 shooting from beyond the arc. Copper topped Phoenix with 10 points before the break.
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Jones scored 10 points in the decisive third quarter. At one point, New York forced five consecutive turnovers, and the Liberty entered the fourth with a 72-55 lead.
The Mercury never got the margin down to single digits in the final quarter.
For the game, New York shot 14-for-30 (46.7%) on 3-point attempts. Phoenix shot 10-for-30 (33.3%), and the Liberty also had a 26-9 edge in points off turnovers.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion Fabricio Andrey has earned his place as one of the most decorated practitioners of the discipline on the planet. The grappler, however, has found a new gear thanks to a teammate operating at the very top of the sport.
The Brazilian standout has been making waves on the ONE Championship submission grappling scene since his promotional debut, with his elite jiu-jitsu pedigree putting him firmly inside the conversation as a future ONE world title contender.
The 26-year-old opened up about exactly how much working with Reis has helped him grow.
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“Every session with him is good because I’m learning a lot from him about jiu-jitsu, especially the competitive [side]. He’s really good at learning the rules and the strategy, and I’m learning the strategy and the rules from him,” Fabricio Andrey said.
Fabricio Andrey is back in action at ONE Fight Night 44
Thus far, Fabricio Andrey has racked up a 3-0 record in the world’s largest martial arts organization.
That evening, live from Bangkok’s iconic Lumpinee Stadium, he clashes alongside promotional newcomer Owen Jones in a featherweight submission grappling matchup.
The Melqui Galvao superstar was initially slated to challenge ONE lightweight submission grappling world champion Kade Ruotolo. Unfortunately, the American ground game wizard pulled out due to an injury sustained during his recent MMA victory over “Japanese Beast” Hiroyuki Tetsuka.
Jones, however, will be no pushover. The 21-year-old Brit has claimed some big scalps throughout his budding career, and he’ll be on the hunt for his biggest win yet come ONE Fight Night 44 later this month.
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North American fans with an active Amazon Prime Video subscription can catch the entire card, live in U.S. primetime, for free on June 26.
NYON, Switzerland — Somali referee Omar Artan who was barred by the United States from the World Cup was picked on Thursday for the showcase UEFA Super Cup game in August.
European soccer body UEFA said Artan will referee the Aug. 12 game between Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain and Aston Villa, the Europa League winner. The game will be in Salzburg, Austria.
Artan got a hero’s welcome returning to Somalia on Wednesday, days after he was refused entry in Miami by U.S. authorities despite being picked by FIFA for World Cup duty.
U.S. officials claimed Artan had connections to terror organizations, though without providing proof.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be shown live on RTÉ, with Irish viewers set for a month of wall-to-wall football from the opening game on Thursday 11 June through to the final on Sunday 19 July.
The tournament begins with Mexico v South Africa at 8pm Irish time before a packed group stage featuring Brazil, England, Argentina, France, Portugal, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands.
Below is the full list of FIFA World Cup 2026 Irish kick-off times, including the group stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, third-place play-off and final. All games are listed in Irish time.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Stage Fixtures
Thursday 11 June
20:00 – Mexico v South Africa
03:00 – South Korea v Czechia
Friday 12 June
20:00 – Canada v Bosnia & Herzegovina
02:00 – USA v Paraguay
Saturday 13 June
20:00 – Qatar v Switzerland
23:00 – Brazil v Morocco
02:00 – Haiti v Scotland
05:00 – Australia v Turkey
Sunday 14 June
18:00 – Germany v Curaçao
21:00 – Netherlands v Japan
00:00 – Ivory Coast v Ecuador
03:00 – Sweden v Tunisia
Monday 15 June
17:00 – Spain v Cape Verde
20:00 – Belgium v Egypt
23:00 – Saudi Arabia v Uruguay
02:00 – Iran v New Zealand
Tuesday 16 June
20:00 – France v Senegal
23:00 – Iraq v Norway
02:00 – Argentina v Algeria
05:00 – Austria v Jordan
Wednesday 17 June
18:00 – Portugal v DR Congo
21:00 – England v Croatia
00:00 – Ghana v Panama
03:00 – Uzbekistan v Colombia
Thursday 18 June
17:00 – Czechia v South Africa
20:00 – Switzerland v Bosnia & Herzegovina
23:00 – Canada v Qatar
02:00 – Mexico v South Korea
Friday 19 June
20:00 – USA v Australia
23:00 – Scotland v Morocco
01:30 – Brazil v Haiti
04:00 – Turkey v Paraguay
Saturday 20 June
18:00 – Netherlands v Sweden
21:00 – Germany v Ivory Coast
01:00 – Ecuador v Curaçao
05:00 – Tunisia v Japan
Sunday 21 June
17:00 – Spain v Saudi Arabia
20:00 – Belgium v Iran
23:00 – Uruguay v Cape Verde
02:00 – New Zealand v Egypt
Monday 22 June
18:00 – Argentina v Austria
22:00 – France v Iraq
01:00 – Norway v Senegal
04:00 – Jordan v Algeria
Tuesday 23 June
18:00 – Portugal v Uzbekistan
21:00 – England v Ghana
00:00 – Panama v Croatia
03:00 – Colombia v DR Congo
Wednesday 24 June
20:00 – Bosnia & Herzegovina v Qatar
20:00 – Switzerland v Canada
23:00 – Morocco v Haiti
23:00 – Scotland v Brazil
02:00 – Czechia v Mexico
02:00 – South Africa v South Korea
Thursday 25 June
21:00 – Curaçao v Ivory Coast
21:00 – Ecuador v Germany
00:00 – Japan v Sweden
00:00 – Tunisia v Netherlands
03:00 – Paraguay v Australia
03:00 – Turkey v USA
Friday 26 June
20:00 – Norway v France
20:00 – Senegal v Iraq
01:00 – Cape Verde v Saudi Arabia
01:00 – Uruguay v Spain
04:00 – Egypt v Iran
04:00 – New Zealand v Belgium
Saturday 27 June
22:00 – Croatia v Ghana
22:00 – Panama v England
00:30 – Colombia v Portugal
00:30 – DR Congo v Uzbekistan
03:00 – Algeria v Austria
03:00 – Jordan v Argentina
FIFA World Cup 2026 Knockout Stage
Round of 32
Sunday 28 June – 20:00
Monday 29 June – 18:00, 21:30, 02:00
Tuesday 30 June – 18:00, 22:00, 02:00
Wednesday 1 July – 17:00, 21:00, 01:00
Thursday 2 July – 20:00, 00:00, 04:00
Friday 3 July – 19:00, 23:00, 02:30
Round of 16
Saturday 4 July – 18:00, 22:00
Sunday 5 July – 21:00, 01:00
Monday 6 July – 20:00, 01:00
Tuesday 7 July – 17:00, 21:00
Quarter-Finals
Thursday 9 July – 21:00
Friday 10 July – 20:00
Saturday 11 July – 22:00, 02:00
Semi-Finals
Tuesday 14 July – 20:00
Wednesday 15 July – 20:00
Third Place Play-Off
Saturday 18 July – 22:00
FIFA World Cup 2026 Final
All Games Live on RTÉ
Irish football fans will be able to follow every match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 live on RTÉ, from the opening fixture through to the final. The expanded format means more games, more late-night drama and a packed schedule across June and July.
With matches involving England, Brazil, Argentina, France, Portugal, Germany and Spain all listed at favourable evening times during the group stage, the tournament should deliver huge interest for Irish viewers.
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SportsNewsIreland.com will continue to provide World Cup 2026 updates, TV details, fixtures, results and reaction throughout the tournament.
Bangladesh roared with the ball on Thursday morning, handing Australia a historic humiliation in the second ODI of the three-match series at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka. Opting to bat first, Australia endured their worst start in ODI history, slumping to 0/3 within the first two overs. The carnage began with Taskin Ahmed, who cleaned up Matthew Short off the fourth delivery of the match. In the following over, pacer Mustafizur Rahman struck twice, dismissing Cooper Connolly and Matt Renshaw for ducks.
With no runs on the board, it marked Australia’s lowest score for the loss of three wickets in ODI history since 1971. Overall, this was only the fourth instance of a team slipping to 0/3 in men’s ODI cricket.
Bangladesh, which won the first game by 86 runs on the DLS Method, is targeting a maiden ODI series win over Australia. The Australian squad is under pressure and under strength, missing frontline pace bowlers Pat Cummins, Josh Hazelwood and Mitchell Starc.
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Pacer Riley Meredith, who played his only previous ODI against the West Indies in 2021, replaced Liam Scott in the only change to Australia’s XI from the first game.
“We will bat first. We can improve all three facets of the game, small margins, but we’re looking to improve. Riley Meredith replaces Liam Scott. Just a bit more pace for us,” said Australia skipper Josh Inglis at the toss.
Opening batter Saif Hassan made way for Soumya Sarkar as Bangladesh also made only one change.
“It was an excellent first match and a great opportunity today (to win the series). We need more partnerships with the bat, the bowlers are doing well, and we need to build momentum. One change: Soumya Sarkar replaces Saif Hassan,. It’s unfortunate for Saif, but Soumya is batting well in the last few matches and has the experience,” said Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
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(With Agency inputs)
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup has arrived in the United States, along with two other countries, which means watch parties are being organized.
World Cup Watch parties will begin Thursday, June 11 – when Mexico hosts South Africa – with several bars and restaurants showing the games for patrons to enjoy. And then the excitement continues on Friday, June 12, when the United States plays Paraguay.
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The Elmont Swim Club is one of the venues that will be having a unique watch party – in the water on Friday evening.
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“We’re excited to bring fans together for a World Cup experience that feels completely different from a traditional watch party,” said Philip Pedregon, Beverage Director at The Elmont. “This is what the Elmont Swim Club is all about – creating a fun, energetic atmosphere where people can cool off, enjoy great company and celebrate big moments together.”
The Tin Man, a local bar franchise, will unveil limited-edition pint glasses for Mexico and the USA on Thursday and Friday.
Jun 8, 2026; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a FIFA soccer ball in locker room A during a tour of Kansas City Stadium ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Here is a roundup of places to enjoy the World Cup games in El Paso.
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Watch the World Cup 2026 at the Dome Bar
The Dome Bar inside the Paso del Norte Hotel in Downtown El Paso invites World Cup fans to come out and pair your favorite games with cocktails at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 11; 7 p.m. Friday, June 12; and 1 p.m. Friday, June 19.
Sunú plans opening on Thursday, June 11 for World Cup
Sunú, a new Mexican restaurant, will hold its grand opening at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 11, just in time for World Cup 2026 watching.
Seating inside Sunú Taqueria Molino at 610 N. Mesa St. is seen Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. The restaurant is scheduled to open June 11.
The restaurant at 610 N. Mesa St. has several TVs on its walls for watching the game.
Hooters across Texas to show World Cup games
Hooters locations in Texas could be home base for watching the matches this summer, offering food and drink deals every day of the week.
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Enjoy several summer offers including ½ pound of steamed shrimp ($9.99), one pound of snow crab legs ($19.99), 10 buffalo shrimp served with fries ($9.99), 10 boneless wings served with fries ($9.99), 22-ounce Michelob Ultra Big Daddy drafts in a collectable cup ($5.99), 22-ounce Modelo Big Daddy Mugs ($6.99) and Corona bottles ($5).
Elmont Swim Club to have first night viewing party
The Elmont Swim Club will kick off World Cup season with its first-ever Night Swim Viewing Party on Friday, June 12 at 240 W. Castellano Drive.
The Elmont Swim Club will officially open the 2026 swim season on Sunday, April 12. The resort at 240 W. Castellano Drive has a fun children’s area as well as a couple of slides and a pool with lazy river.
Guests are invited to watch the match live from the pool and enjoy a one-of-a-kind summer viewing experience featuring discounted Swim Club admission beginning at 5 p.m. The Swim Club will remain open until 10 p.m. for the special event.
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The evening will include special promotions and tastings from Michelob Ultra, Stella Artois and NÜTRL, along with games, contests, prizes and giveaways throughout the night.
To help build the atmosphere ahead of kickoff, Suavecita FM will broadcast live on-site from 5 to 7 p.m. The U.S. vs. Paraguay match will be shown live from 7 to 10 p.m., giving fans a chance to swim, cheer and celebrate alongside fellow supporters.
The Night Swim Viewing Party is the first of several World Cup watch parties planned at The Elmont.
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For more information about The Elmont Swim Club, admission, season passes and upcoming events, visit theelmont.com.
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Tin Man to offer limited-edition Mexico pint glass
All Tin Man locations will offer a limited-edition Mexico pint glass Thursday, June 11. Fans are invited to watch the 2026 World Cup, starting at noon.
All Tin Man locations in El Paso will offer a limited-edition Mexico pint glass Thursday, June 11. Fans are invited to come watch the World Cup 2026, starting at noon.
The bar will also offer a limited-edition glass for the USA on Friday, June 12, at p.m.
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Locations: 2301 N. Zaragoza Road., 1300 Airway Blvd., 1495 George Dieter Drive., 13500 Eastlake Blvd., 4935 N. Mesa St., 7729 Paseo del Norte Blvd., and 11100 Sean Haggerty Drive.
The District to offer World Cup Watch party
The District, at 1160 Airway Blvd. Suite DA, will host a World Cup 2026 watching party at 1:00 p.m. It will offer food and drink specials, including $3 Tecate and Modelo beers, $0.40 Hornitos, and a $9 grilled chicken wrap with fries.
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It will also offer a watch party for the USA team at 7 p.m. Friday, June 12, with drink specials during the game.
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A Touch of Germany to have World Cup Sunday, June 14
A Touch of Germany, 1550 Hawkins Blvd, Suite 16, will host a watch party for Germany as it takes on Curaçao at 11 a.m. Sunday, June 14. Come hungry, because the restaurant will offer Leberkäse for $11.99 during the match. Information: 915-595-8888.
Plaza Hotel to offer World Cup watch party.
The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park invites the public to watch World Cup soccer Friday, June 12 at La Perla. During the game, the rooftop bar will offer tacos and margaritas.
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United States will play Paraguay at 7 p.m. MT/8 p.m. CT.
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St. Augustine Pizza Pub to host World Cup watch party
A staff member places a cooked pizza onto a plate during a pizza-making class at Saint Augustine Pizza Pub on March 11, 2026, in East El Paso, Texas.
St. Augustine Pizza Pub, 1691 N. Zaragoza Road, will be showing the World Cup matches, starting at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 11. The pub will offer $2 Tecates, $5 Clamatos, and $4.50 for local beers.
Fire up the grill, wave the flag, and most importantly, grab your clubs because it’s time to celebrate America in style. Whether you’re chasing birdies on the Fourth or enjoying a summer round with friends, there’s no better way to show your patriotic spirit than with a red, white, and blue golf outfit.
We did you a solid and laid out what we think is the perfect Independence Day golf fit — and it can be shipped and ready before the holiday.
Vineyard Vines brings the bold with this new polo. Featuring a vivid flag-inspired design and lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric, it’s built to keep you comfortable whether you’re on the golf course, at a backyard barbecue, or watching fireworks later that evening. It’s the most American golf shirt we think you’ll find anywhere.
1 thing we really like: The American flag design makes a statement without sacrificing comfort and the ultra-soft Sankaty performance fabric feels great even on the hottest summer days.
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Vineyard Vines American Flag Golf Polo
A festive, high-performance polo that combines all-American style with all-day comfort.
We know it’s expensive, but if you really want to add a touch of classic Americana to your golf wardrobe, consider this hand-stitched needlepoint belt from Smathers & Branson. Featuring an American flag design, premium Italian leather backing, and a solid brass buckle, it’s a timeless accessory that pairs perfectly with your favorite patriotic golf outfit.
1 thing we really like: The attention to detail between the hand-stitched flag pattern, full-grain Italian leather, and solid brass buckle, this belt feels like a piece you’ll wear for years, both on and off the course.
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Smathers & Branson American Flag Golf Belt
A 100% hand-stitched needlepoint belt lined with full grain, Italian leather and a brass buckle.
By July, we’re hoping your legs are tan enough to hop on the short shorts trend and the Chubbies Everywear Shorts (In Navy Baby) are designed to look great on practically anywhere. With lightweight stretch fabric, water resistance, and plenty of practical storage, these versatile shorts deliver comfort and performance at a reasonable price. And if you don’t want the 6″ version, Chubbies also makes longer options.
1 thing we really like: A great price for a summer staple that have plenty of stretch.
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Chubbies The Navy Baby’s 6″ Men’s Golf Shorts
Lightweight shorts with ample stretch for added comfort.
Whether you’re teeing off on a cool morning or looking for a lightweight layer later in the day, the Good Good Jimmy Quarter-Zip delivers comfort and performance in a clean, athletic package. Its four-way stretch fabric allows for a full range of motion, making it an easy choice for golfers who want versatility both on and off the course.
1 thing we really like: The four-way stretch fabric and athletic fit make it incredibly comfortable and wearable anywhere.
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Good Good Jimmy Men’s Golf Quarter Zip
A lightweight performance quarter-zip designed for comfort, mobility, and everyday wear.
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Complete your patriotic golf outfit from the ground up with FootJoy’s ProDry Stars & Stripes golf socks. Designed for all-day comfort and performance, these socks feature moisture-wicking technology, cushioned support, and a secure fit that keeps you comfortable through every hole.
1 thing we really like: Short socks are out and long socks are in and these ProDrys rep Old Glory better than most, and the cushioning and moisture-wicking performance on these socks are fantastic.
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FootJoy ProDry Striped Crew Socks
Patriotic performance socks that deliver comfort, support, and all-American style.
If the rest of the outfit brings the loud colors, maybe we can tone it down a bit at the feet level with the MC80’s from adidas. Blending timeless golf style with modern performance technology, the adidas MC80 Golf Shoes are made of waterproof leather for a classic look.
1 thing we really like: The combination of traditional golf aesthetics and BOOST cushioning is outstanding. You get the look of a classic golf shoe with the comfort and energy return of a modern athletic sneaker.
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adidas MC80 Men’s Spikeless Golf Shoes
A premium golf shoe that combines classic leather styling with cutting-edge comfort and performance.
Top off your patriotic golf look with a cap that blends vintage-inspired style and modern comfort from an American equipment manufacturer. The Ping Karsten O.G. Performance Cap features a classic rope design, breathable mesh back, and added stretch for a comfortable fit whether you’re walking 18 holes or enjoying a summer holiday BBQ after the round. And of course, the front of the cap has that classic Mr. Ping logo that we love.
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1 thing we really like: The combination of the throwback rope styling and stretchy performance fabric gives this hat a unique look that’s both stylish and incredibly comfortable to wear all day.
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Ping Karsten O.G. Performance Cap
A retro-inspired performance cap with modern comfort and an easy, all-day fit.
Designed with athletes and golfers in mind, these lightweight performance shades feature mirrored red lenses, non-slip grips, and specialized Knockterra lens technology that resists sweat, water, and fingerprints. They’re perfect for long summer rounds under the bright sun.
1 thing we really like: The non-polarized Knockterra lenses are a standout feature, providing enhanced depth perception on the course. Nice price, too.
Feb 9, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Former running back LeSean McCoy speaks during the Legends NFL Party. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images.
Former NFL running back LeSean McCoy is not a fan of Kyler Murray, reigniting his beef with the Minnesota Vikings quarterback this week by saying Murray isn’t good enough to be cocky.
McCoy has a long, documented history of ripping Murray; his recent comments were merely the latest chapter in the saga.
McCoy’s Latest Murray Criticism Adds Heat to Vikings QB Race
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray wears his helmet during the opening day of organized team activities at team headquarters in Eagan. On May 26, 2026, Murray participated in Minnesota’s first OTA session, beginning offseason installation work and taking early steps toward establishing himself within the Vikings’ revamped quarterback room. Mandatory Credit: YouTube.
McCoy: Murray Isn’t Good Enough to Be Arrogant
Chatting on the Speakeasy podcast, McCoy was not shy about unloading his latest Murray take, saying, “But you know what I hate? I hate a super cocky, arrogant player that’s not that good. That’s a little above average. That is Kyler Murray.”
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“He plays like high school Texas football. He runs around and back there just trying to make plays like this high school football stuff.”
McCoy last played in the NFL in 2020, is a two-time Super Bowl champion, and isn’t unafraid to uncork juicy takes on the internet.
Past Comments from McCoy
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A couple of years ago, Murray mentioned his 43-0 career in high school, touting the accomplishment because he played ball in Texas. McCoy replied on social media, “lol and what has that gotten u ??? Mid NFL career??? What we talking bout?”
In 2022, McCoy went on another Murray-related rant, saying, “He’s trash. Overhyped. Overrated. He plays like a high school player. Runs around, runs backward, he does a circle, the ballerina circle, then goes left, goes right, turns all the way around again, then looks for a wide receiver. That’s not how you play quarterback.”
“He ain’t Mahomes. Let me tell you about Mahomes real quick: the majority of Mahomes’ passes are based on timing. Third step, hit, boom, ball’s out. Fifth step, boom, ball’s out. Now sometimes he goes off script, we all can do that but not every pass!”
McCoy flat-out doesn’t like the guy. He says the same thing about Murray every time he talks about him.
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“Every pass, Murray is holding the ball, let’s make a miracle. Every game he’s played. Watch him play. It’s really embarrassing, to be honest. Like, who’s coaching this kid? He ain’t reading no coverages,” he continued his tirade and crusade.
“When a quarterback is running around like that all day, all night, all game, that’s because he’s not reading any coverages.”
Murray Not Universally Loved
Murray isn’t for everybody. When the Arizona Cardinals baked in a “study hall clause” into his contract — later removed — many determined he was a lazy, no-good video game player. The narrative died down thereafter but never truly vanished.
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Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray takes a snap during a road game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. On Dec. 3, 2023, Murray directed Arizona’s offense while continuing his return to action, showcasing the mobility and playmaking skills that have defined his NFL career. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports.
He’s also never won a playoff game, so when his ardor for video games is mentioned, the assertion is that he doesn’t love football as much as his peers and spends too much time on other hobbies. Ask a casual fan about Murray, and there’s a decent chance they mock for a) his height b) video games c) his attitude.
The guy probably needs a playoff win or two to dull the perception.
A Change of Scenery in 2026
Thankfully for Murray’s sake, he’ll get a bit of a clean slate this season. Murray will work alongside a “quarterback whispering” head coach and playmakers like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jauan Jennings, T.J. Hockenson, Aaron Jones, and Jordan Mason. He’ll also have a Top 3 defense from the last two seasons at his back, led by Brian Flores.
Murray has never quite had a setup like this.
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Our Cole Smith noted on Murray in May, “He was selected to back-to-back Pro Bowls in 2020 and 2021 after throwing for a combined 48 touchdowns, rushing for another 16, while completing 68.1% of his passes for 7,758 yards. Murray hasn’t been the same since, only starting 41 of 64 games in that time. But he believes Kevin O’Connell can help him return to Pro Bowl form.”
“O’Connell has confidence in Murray, but what is the quarterback’s own level of confidence in this new environment? The bigger question remains what the on-field product will look like. Reporters were able to look upon practice on Wednesday and saw a glimpse of what this offense can look like with Murray.”
Murray looked wonderful at organized team activities.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray surveys the field during a home contest against the Washington Commanders at State Farm Stadium. On Sept. 29, 2024, Murray guided Arizona’s offense in an early-season matchup, working through progressions and directing drives as the Cardinals evaluated their offensive identity. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images.
Smith added, “There could have been plenty of excuses made for why Murray didn’t execute the play. Instead, he avoided disaster and made the defense pay. Murray said his confidence is unshakeable. He displayed that on and off the field in his first action in front of reporters.”
“If he can continue stacking days like this throughout the summer, there will likely be no question about how the quarterback competition ends.”
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But according to McCoy, he’s just too arrogant and cocky to make it work.
Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker
Suncorp Stadium will play host to Friday’s
Round 15 NRL game between Dolphins and
Sydney Roosters. The game kicks off at 8:00 pm with Dolphins heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Dolphins vs.
Sydney Roosters
game and give you our free tips and bets.
The Dolphins have a golden opportunity to strengthen their top-four credentials when they host an Origin-depleted Sydney Roosters outfit at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night. After a difficult start to the season, the Dolphins have surged into contention with five consecutive victories, showcasing one of the most dangerous attacks in the competition. The Roosters remain well placed inside the top four themselves, but the absence of several representative stars leaves them facing a major challenge. While Sydney has dominated this matchup since the Dolphins entered the NRL, the circumstances are very different this time around. The Dolphins retain much of their attacking core and arrive full of confidence, while the Roosters will rely on inexperienced combinations across key positions. Momentum and continuity appear firmly in the hosts’ favour.
Go Media Stadium will play host to Saturday’s
Round 15 NRL game between New Zealand Warriors and
Cronulla Sharks. The game kicks off at 5:30 pm with New Zealand Warriors heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the New Zealand Warriors vs.
Cronulla Sharks
game and give you our free tips and bets.
A blockbuster Saturday afternoon clash awaits in Auckland as the Warriors return home to face a Cronulla side chasing a fourth straight win. The Warriors have established themselves among the competition’s elite this season and return to Go Media Stadium for the first time in two months. Cronulla has quietly rebuilt momentum after a mid-season dip, stringing together three successive victories to move firmly into finals contention. Both teams are missing key forwards through Origin and injury, placing extra importance on the battle between the halves and outside backs. The Sharks have enjoyed recent success in Auckland and handed the Warriors a convincing defeat earlier this season, but the hosts have improved dramatically since then. With both clubs sitting comfortably inside the top eight, this shapes as one of the matches of the round.
New Zealand Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks Teams
Warriors team: 1. Taine Tuaupiki 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Ali Leiataua 4. Adam Pompey 5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita 7. Te Maire Martin 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Jackson Ford 11. Leka Halasima 12. Jacob Laban 13. Erin Clark 14. Samuel Healey 15. Tanner Stowers-Smith 16. Demitric Vaimauga 17. Marata Niukore 18. Kayliss Fatialofa 20. Luke Hanson
Sharks team: 1. William Kennedy 2. Samuel Stonestreet 3. KL Iro 4. Mawene Hiroti 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Niwhai Puru 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Jayden Berrell 10. Toby Rudolf 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Siosifa Talakai 15. Billy Burns 16. Jesse Colquhoun 17. Thomas Hazelton 18. Hohepa Puru 19. Oregon Kaufusi 22. Sione Katoa
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