With college basketball conference tournaments officially underway, some of the wonkiest brackets in all of sports are taking center stage. None is crazier than the Sun Belt’s seven-round “stepladder” event, which is already underway in Pensacola, Florida.
No. 11 seed Old Dominion and No. 12 seed Louisiana began their journeys with victories on Tuesday night. To cut down the nets on March 9, they will need to win seven games in seven days. By comparison, No. 1 seed Troy and No. 2 seed Marshall won’t play until the semifinals.
The Sun Belt’s format debuted for the 2025 season and is one of several conference tournaments now optimized to reward regular season performance. There is thoughtful reasoning behind the trend.
While the stepladder format obviously makes it tougher for a Cinderella to emerge from down the seeding hierarchy, the growth of the concept is actually a means of enhancing Cinderella’s viability in the NCAA Tournament. When a likely one-bid conference protects its best teams, it’s more likely that the NCAA Tournament representative from that conference will be a legitimate threat in the Big Dance.
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That is one way to counter a prevailing narrative that this NIL-oriented and transfer-heavy era of college basketball is making it harder for the “little guys” to thrive in the NCAA Tournament. If leagues create conditions that accommodate the best teams from the low and mid-major ranks, it enhances the likelihood that teams in the 12-16 seed range of the Big Dance will be competent enough to make some noise.
There is also a financial incentive. Every conference collects an additional financial “unit” any time one of their teams advances in the NCAA Tournament. Those units are valuable revenue for leagues lacking high-dollar TV deals.
Here is a rundown of the most extreme conference tournament brackets.
1. Sun Belt Tournament
When the Sun Belt unveiled its new conference tournament format before last season, here’s what commissioner Keith Gill had to say: “The new Sun Belt Basketball Championship brackets will reward our top seeds for their accomplishments during the regular season, ensuring they receive the advantage they’ve earned for their on-court performance.”
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Seed
Games Needed
Days Played
1–2
2
2
3–4
3
3
5–6
4
4
7–8
5
5
9–10
6
6
11–14
7
7
What league leaders perhaps didn’t envision is a six-way tie for second in the conference standings like what we saw this season. Due to tiebreakers, Arkansas State landed as the No. 7 seed, despite having the exact same 11-7 league record as No. 2 seed Marshall. As a result, the Red Wolves will have to win five games to be the tournament champion while the Thundering Herd will need just two victories. Here’s a look at the Sun Belt Tournament bracket.
2. WCC Tournament
The WCC has been doing things this way for over two decades. By granting automatic bids to the semifinals for its top two teams, the league has created ideal conditions for premier programs like Gonzaga and Saint Mary’s. The Bulldogs have rarely needed an automatic bid in order to qualify for the Big Dance.
Seed
First Game
Games Needed to Win Tournament
1–2
Semifinals
2
3–4
Quarterfinals
3
5–6
Third Round
4
7–8
Second Round
5
9–10
First Round
6
11–12
Opening Round
7
But by implementing the stepladder format and sticking with it, the conference was able to placate the Zags, who have long been of interest to other conferences. Gonzaga will finally be moving on to the Pac-12 after this season. They have 22 WCC Tournament championships already. Can they add a 23rd on the way out? Here’s the WCC bracket.
3. AAC Tournament
The American moved to a stepladder format for the 2026 season, and it’s looking like a great decision because of the way this season played out. South Florida will be the No. 1 seed, and the Bulls will need just two victories in order to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament.
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Seed
First Game
Games Needed to Win Tournament
1–2
Semifinals
2
3–4
Quarterfinals
3
5–6
Second Round
4
7–8
Second Round
4
9–10
First Round
5
USF profiles like a team that could upset a No. 5 seed in the first round of the Big Dance if it lands as a No. 12 seed. No one will want to get matched up against the Bulls in the Big Dance, and the American is ensuring South Florida has a great path to the field of 68.
4. Big Ten Tournament
The Big Ten permitted just 15 of its 18 members to reach the conference tournament last season, resulting in Nebraska, Penn State and Washington getting left on the outside looking in. However, the conference is letting all 18 teams in for the 2026 event. It is messy, but that’s just what happens when you work with this many teams.
Seed band
First game
Games needed to win title
1–6
Quarterfinals
3
7–9
Third round
4
10–14
Second round
5
15–18
Opening round
6
As a result, the path to a title looks much different for seeds Nos. 15-18 than it does for seeds Nos. 1-4. The former group will need to win six games in six days while the ladder will need just three victories to hoist the trophy.
5. MEAC Tournament
If you look closely, you can see there is a massive reward for earning the No. 1 seed in the MEAC Tournament. While every other team in the field will need to win three games in order to be the champion, the No. 1 seed will need to win just two.
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Seed
First Game
Games Needed to Win Tournament
1
Semifinals
2
2–3
Quarterfinals
3
4–8
First Round
3
This provides a clear reward to the conference’s regular season champion and enhances the league’s chance of sending a competitive team to the Big Dance.
Manchester City player ratings for their Premier League game with Arsenal that saw Pep Guardiola’s side win 2-1
18:27, 19 Apr 2026Updated 18:30, 19 Apr 2026
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Manchester City gained a crucial victory in the Premier League title race with a 2-1 win over Arsenal at the Etihad. The Blues beat the league leaders in a pulsating afternoon that saw both sides try to land the decisive blow.
Rayan Cherki danced through the Arsenal defence to give City an early lead in a goal that the hosts hoped would open the floodgates. However, Gianluigi Donnarumma was caught in possession seconds later to gift Arsenal an equaliser.
City huffed and puffed but could not find another way through until the 65th minute when Nico O’Reilly’s cross found Erling Haaland in what proved to be the winning goal. Here are the player ratings from the Manchester Evening News for the City players.
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Donnarumma: A horrible error that could have cost City dearly, but he recovered, made some good saves and played a part in the winner. 6
Nunes: Was targeted aerially and had some nervy moments but also did well for Cherki’s goal and kept pushing up. 7
Khusanov: A monster at the back, mopping up everything that came in his and working well with Rodri and Guehi. 8
Guehi: Nearly played City into trouble in the second half and also earned a booking, but he got plenty right. 7
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O’Reilly: One of the best players in the league in this form and he was decisive again when the team needed it. 9
Silva: Absolutely everywhere again, stopping dangerous Arsenal attacks and popping up in their box to help the City attack. 8
Rodri: Essential to protecting the defence and also launched some wonderful crossfield balls to start City attacks. 8
Semenyo: Got into lots of dangerous positions but it wasn’t his afternoon with that final ball or shot never paying off. 6
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Cherki: What a goal to open the scoring, showing how he can balance his art with clinical play. Arsenal were never comfortable with him. 8
Doku: Got City out of trouble several times and also played them into it. His partnership with O’Reilly is really strong. 7
Haaland: He should have scored more than one but when you see the effort he put in against the defence in addition to the winning goal it is an excellent display. 8
Substitutes
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Foden (for Cherki, 85)
Semenyo (for Doku, 87)
Gonzalez (for Rodri, 87)
Ake (for Semenyo 90)
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Not used: Trafford, Stones, Ait-Nouri, Gonzalez, Reijnders, Savinho, Marmoush
Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (22) lines up during action against the Wyoming Cowboys, with Dec 30, 2023 marking the Arizona Bowl at Arizona Stadium in Tucson, Arizona. McNeil-Warren contributed in the secondary during the postseason matchup between Toledo and Wyoming. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports.
You are not far away from learning who the Minnesota Vikings draft in Round 1 this offseason. The club has the 18th pick and will render a verdict on Thursday night. So to make sure you’re prepared, it’s time to peek at the leading contenders to turn purple that night.
Seven names. One pick. Thursday is here.
Ranked in ascending order (No. 1 = Vikings’ most likely draft pick), here’s the list.
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The Prospects Most Firmly in Play for Minnesota at No. 18
The long offseason journey is close to a grand reveal.
Tennessee defensive back Colton Hood (8) walks with teammates during the Vol Walk before Tennessee’s home opener against ETSU, Sept 6, 2025, at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tennessee, moving through a crowd of fans as part of the pregame tradition that builds energy ahead of kickoff in the Volunteers’ early-season matchup. Mandatory Credit: Brianna Paciorka/News Sentinel-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
7. Colton Hood (CB, Tennessee)
Turning 21 this year, Hood could be the answer to Minnesota’s decade-long search for a successful rookie cornerback drafted to effectively fill the position. Ranked No. 35 on the Consensus Big Board, Hood aligns with the Vikings’ history of drafting in this range, as seen with Donovan Jackson at No. 39.
His ability to play outside cornerback makes him a particularly valuable prospect, with the potential to contribute as a starter immediately.
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6. Kayden McDonald (DL, Ohio State)
If Minnesota considers trading back 5–12 spots, McDonald is a stable, reliable option. A true run-stopping nose tackle, he could fill the void in the defense left by the departures of Linval Joseph and Dalvin Tomlinson. McDonald is a “safe” pick.
At No. 31 on the CBB, trading with a team like Miami at No. 30 could yield additional Day 2 draft capital while still allowing the Vikings to secure McDonald.
SB Nation‘s Michael Peterson on McDonald and the Vikings’ fit: “With the way the Vikings want to play defense under Brian Flores, they’ll need big bodies to plug up as many holes as possible so as not to get burnt by well-timed runs into some of their pressure packages.”
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“McDonald is the best at doing just that while still having the strength to push the pocket when needed. He likely won’t be a three-down player immediately at the next level, but I can easily foresee him being able to re-work his body, transform some of the bad weight into better mass, and become an all-around menace in the middle.”
5. Kenyon Sadiq (TE, Oregon)
With T.J. Hockenson’s contract potentially extending through the 2027 free agency period, Sadiq’s long-term fit becomes particularly appealing.
If Sadiq is the highest-rated player available at No. 18, the timing aligns well for a future-oriented selection. At 21 years old, Sadiq offers a combination of pass-catching and blocking abilities and meets all the necessary physical requirements.
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4. Jermod McCoy (CB, Tennessee)
McCoy is projected to be selected before Minnesota’s pick, making his acquisition less likely. Widely regarded as the CB2 in this draft class behind LSU’s Mansoor Delane, he is generating Top 15 buzz.
The 20-year-old McCoy, currently recovering from a torn ACL that will sideline him for the 2025 season at Tennessee, specializes in outside cornerback duties, similar to Hood.
3. Peter Woods (DT, Clemson)
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The departures of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, who collectively accounted for over 1,300 defensive snaps last season, create a significant void on the defensive line, typically necessitating addressing the position in the draft.
Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods (11) stands on the field before the game against NC State, Sep 21, 2024, at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina, preparing during pregame warmups as he readies for a key conference matchup with expectations centered on his impact along the defensive front. Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
If Minnesota remains at No. 18 and seeks to bolster the interior, Woods emerges as a logical and impactful choice.
2. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (S, Toledo)
A strategic trade down could create an opportunity to select McNeil-Warren while simultaneously acquiring additional premium draft capital.
With safety projected to become a pressing need if Harrison Smith retires, McNeil-Warren offers a combination of size, range, and a proven ability to generate turnovers. While the selection of safeties in Round 1 is often debated, his overall profile makes a compelling case.
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SI.com‘s Justin Melo wrote about McNeil-Warren to Minnesota this week, “Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman is among the more commonly mocked players to the Minnesota Vikings at No. 18 overall. Does McNeil-Warren not warrant consideration here?”
“We’re not convinced Thieneman is the consensus No. 2 safety on every draft board. The Vikings are almost certainly in the market at the position, with 14-year mainstay Harrison Smith available in free agency. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores preaches physicality and violence in the defensive backfield, and McNeil-Warren would fit his scheme like a glove.”
1. Dillon Thieneman (S, Oregon)
Those who closely follow mock drafts have frequently seen Thieneman linked to Minnesota. Parallels to Harrison Smith continue to emerge, and the timing aligns well with Smith’s career trajectory. Smith might retire; he might be back for one more season. Nobody knows.
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Purdue defensive back Dillon Thieneman (31) speaks with teammate Joseph Jefferson II (32) after a Notre Dame touchdown, Sep 14, 2024, at Ross-Ade Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana, reacting to the play during a difficult game as the Boilermakers regroup following a scoring drive by the Fighting Irish. Mandatory Credit: Alex Martin/Journal and Courier-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Initially viewed as a Round 2 prospect, a strong Combine performance has elevated his stock, and the connection between Thieneman and Minnesota continues to gain momentum.
If you ask the general population who will end up with the Vikings on Thursday night, most will say Thieneman.
Paige made her shocking return to WWE at WrestleMania 42 Night 1. She joined forces with Brie Bella to compete in the Fatal 4-Way Match for the Women’s Tag Team Championships. To everyone’s surprise, The Anti-Diva went on to win the titles at The Grandest Stage of Them All to make her return even more memorable.
Nikki Bella was in the corner of Paige and Brie Bella the entire time during the match. She acted as a big supporter for the duo through and through, and they were spotted having a celebration following the match. The former AEW star, along with The Bellas, also appeared on the WrestleMania Post Show, where Nikki talked about her return. However, the former Divas Champion accidentally botched a live interview.
While discussing Paige’s comeback at the 16:39 mark of the post-show interview, Nikki Bella unintentionally referred to her as Saraya. Well, it needs to be noted that it is the Briton’s real name, and she used that during her AEW run. Therefore, it was a botch to call her by that label in the Stamford-based promotion. However, as a true professional, Bella quickly corrected herself without creating much of a difference.
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“Both at the same time, the only person who will still make it feel special and like family is Saraya, Paige,” said Bella.
Check out the video below:
Well, the former AEW star’s return has managed to make a lot of headlines all over the globe. It will be interesting to see how things will unfold for her in the Stamford-based promotion from here on out.
Paige makes history with her return at WrestleMania 42
Paige’s comeback was a historic moment for her in the world of professional wrestling. It was her first WWE appearance in a long time, and fans were quickly taken on a nostalgia ride with her iconic theme song. But that was not the only thing that happened last night. With that return and the women’s tag team title win, The Anti Diva has achieved a unique feat in pro-wrestling.
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With that title win with Brie Bella, the 33-year-old star has become the only pro-wrestler to win a championship at All In and WrestleMania. Saraya became the AEW Women’s World Champion at All In: London in 2023 at the famous Wembley Stadium. All In is the biggest show produced by All Elite Wrestling; meanwhile, WrestleMania is the biggest show by WWE.
Now, as the new women’s tag team champion, Saraya has got a huge target on her back. It will be exciting to witness who will be the first challengers for her and Brie Bella on Monday Night RAW next week.
When Forest strolled out of north London with a 3-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium 28 days ago it felt seismic.
They were only three points above the relegation zone, but the magnitude of the win could not be understated.
It was Pereira’s first win as Forest manager and the nature of the victory felt huge, with Gibbs-White scoring a game-clinching second.
Fast forward a month and Gibbs-White’s hat-trick piles more misery on Spurs and gives them another reminder of what could have been.
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A move to Tottenham appeared done in July when it appeared his £60m release clause had been triggered.
Yet Forest looked to take legal action and were furious with Tottenham‘s conduct and were adamant they had not been given permission to speak to their player.
Gibbs-White went on to sign a new three-year contract a few weeks later and the saga was perhaps a prelude to the two club’s chaotic seasons, with Forest going through four managers and Spurs close to their first relegation since 1977.
“A massive three points. We knew how important this game was coming into it. The first half was a bit nervous, tense,” Gibbs-White told BBC Match of the Day.
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“The words from the gaffer was to give it everything out there – whatever will be will be. They boys came out fighting, took our chances when we needed to and controlled the game.
“The first, I was a bit erratic. I knew for the second one to take a touch and be a bit more composed. When the third went in, it was a delight.
“We got the win and we have that gap.”
Instead of potentially spearheading Spurs’ survival bid, Gibbs-White has delivered another hammer blow.
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Spurs, in 18th, will be four points from safety if West Ham beat Crystal Palace on Monday.
Ex-Tottenham midfielder Danny Murphy told Match of the Day: “It is strange how football works.
“One of the things Spurs fans have been vocal about is the club not being able to get good players signed and over the line.
“Whether that could be through the inability to negotiate properly, whether it’s financial, who knows?
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“But, ultimately, a player like Gibbs-White would have been brilliant for Tottenham this season and would have hit the ground running – unlike Xavi Simons, who is a good player but has taken time to adapt.
“Today is a double kick in the stomach for Spurs as he could have been the man to save them from trouble. Instead, he’s given Forest a huge boost to beat the drop.”
You slice. You catch it fat from the fairway. Your game: riddled with a two-way miss. With my plan, that’s all part of your golfing past.
Below, you’ll learn how to nix these errors and get a ton more consistent in your ball striking. It’s a plan that I feel works for everyone — from struggling rec player to the golfers you see on TV each weekend. It’s based on always getting back to a solid impact position, something you can do by rehearsing impact first. Then you’ll be growing the swing to add more speed and power.
In this special edition of GOLF instruction, I’ll show you how to do just that in five easy steps, starting with learning what proper impact should look and feel like while incrementally adding width and speed to your overall swing. They are proven fundamentals that will not only help you, but also give some structure and insight to your regular practice sessions. Guided practice is the best practice, more so than simply swinging for the fences when you’re at the range. Follow along and at the start of the new season, your golfing buddies won’t believe what they’re seeing. Neither will you.
STEP 1: REHEARSE IMPACT WITH A LOWER- CASE ‘y’
A lower-case ‘y’ is what ideal impact position looks and feels like.
GOLF
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In order to achieve perfect impact, you need to know what it looks and feels like. That’s Step 1 in this learning session. So … with a wedge, follow these steps:
1. With a ball set slightly forward of center, ground your club while setting about 80 percent of your weight on your front foot.
2. Push your tailbone back and rotate your hips 40 to 45 degrees open — as if you’re getting them “out of the way” for the moment you strike the ball.
3. Call this the Holy Grail of impact: Press your hands forward without moving anything else, adding some bend to your trail wrist while keeping your lead arm straight. You know you did it right if your arms, hands and club form a lowercase ‘y’, as you see in the photo above.
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4. As you get into these positions, mind your head — set the right side of your face behind the ball. As you’ve probably experienced in your golfing career, moving your head too far in front of the ball tends to lead to a ton of swing misery.
5. Once you’re set, stick a tee between your trail arm and your torso, right in your armpit. Create pressure between your arm and your body to hold the tee in place. Subtle, but this trail arm and body connection is one of the true keys to producing solid strikes, as you’ll learn in Step 2 below.
If you can copy what you see here, you’re on the fast track to better ball striking and lower scores. Practice these impact alignments as much as you can. You can spend time at the range as well as at home grooving this. In the next step, you’ll learn how to guide your swing through this A-plus position.
STEP 2: SWING LOWERCASE “y” TO CAPITAL “Y”
In Step 2, you add the swing motion.
GOLF
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Once you have nailed the look and feel of a proper impact position in Step 1, it’s time to add some motion to your overall swing. We’ll start small and work into fuller motions in the proceeding steps.
To put this in action: It’s time to reset your lowercase ‘y’ impact position, then smoothly rotate back. The goal here is to transport the lowercase ‘y’ you formed in your mock impact position to a one-third backswing (top photo avove). All you need is a slight shoulder turn and moving a bit of weight from your front foot to your trail foot. Important: Don’t swing past this length at this point in the overall exercise.
Once you’ve set your lowercase ‘y’ mini- backswing, hit the ball, swinging your arms and turning as normal, but cutting off your finish to the point where the club is parallel to the ground (bottom photo above). Check that you’ve posted up solidly on your lead leg. Your wrists will have just a slight re-hinge. This combination of body turn and arm extension is a hallmark of great players. You’ll know you did it correctly when you move from a lowercase ‘y’ to a capital ‘Y’ position.
Big key: Keep the connection between your trail arm and your torso, pinching the tee in your armpit firmly. This is critical to managing your body structure as well as keeping you on plane through the strike.
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You’re not looking for big hits here, just solid strikes as you work on your lowercase ‘y’ to capital ‘Y’ motion. If you’re like most of my students, you’ll feel like you’re compressing the ball like never before, even with a “mini-swing.”
Dedicate at least a full range bucket to this drill before even thinking about adding length to your motion.
STEP 3: BUILD AN ADDRESS POSITION THAT FUELS SOLD IMPACT
In Step 3, it’s all about address position.
GOLF
Suggestion: Start every one of your practice sessions with Steps 1 and 2. You’ll build the ability to create solid ball-first contact every time.
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But knowing you can’t play this game in “drill mode,” it’s now time to build an address position that best allows you to achieve the four key impact fundamentals without even thinking. Here’s what to do, in four easy steps:
1. Stand erect with any iron, hinging your wrist to get the club parallel with the ground while keeping both arms snug against your sides. Put the club level to your belt buckle.
2. Without changing anything else, extend your hands away from your body. Checkpoint: The distance between the butt of the grip and your body should equal the distance between your thumb and pinkie when both splayed.
3. Again, without changing anything else, simply bend from your hips and sole the club against the ground. Think “back straight” and “arms relaxed.” You’re looking good.
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4. To complete the process, simply add a bit of knee flex. You’re now in a position that is balanced and ready to dynamically move. Once you’re set, take your trail hand off the club and splay your hand with pinkie and thumb open wide. Use this gauge to make sure the distance between the club and your body hasn’t changed since Step 1 in this drill.
You need to practice these steps to build your great setup. By doing so, you’re in an excellent position to catch it crisp every time.
STEP 4: SWING CAPITAL ‘L’ TO CAPITAL ‘L’
In Step 4, the ‘y’ swings become ‘L’.
GOLF
So far this lesson has focused on the main requirements of Tour-level impact with what you need to do at address to make it all possible. But, as every golfer knows, this is a power game. At some point you need to learn how to add speed without losing the fundamentals of impact and setup address in Steps 1 to 3.
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Enter Step 4: adding serious mph to your lowercase ‘y’ swing. Easy. To get it right, get into your address posture, but this time with an alignment rod held snug between your hands and whatever iron you’ve chosen to swing.
Get set, take the club back, and now you’re building more length to the swing. You’re using the alignment rod to check your ‘L’ positions and to groove a great swing plane. In the backswing, the ‘L’ should point at or slightly inside the ball target line. On the through swing, it should return back and point at the target line again. When using the alignment rod, move slowly back and through to check your angles. This is not about speed; there’s a reason why this is called the “punisher drill.” If you don’t do it correctly, you will hit yourself with the stick. Go slowly to work on the motion, then you can take the rod away and simply swing the club from ‘L’ to ‘L’. This is where the perfect “snap” release lives — the swish! You can also practice this drill only swinging the alignment stick, and you’ll really hear the speed firing up! If you fight a slice with the dreaded chicken wing through the ball, you’re definitely not doing this!
This is how you begin building speed correctly.
STEP 5: GET YOUR SHOULDERS IN ACTION BY TURNING TO ‘THE WALL’
Step 5 puts it all together.
GOLF
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The four drills discussed thus far are your fast track to better strikes and more speed. There’s just one more element as you work on each during your training sessions and that’s turn.
A great way to practice this is to set up in your address position [1], with an alignment stick set perpendicular to your target line just inside your trail foot.
As you move from your dynamic address and start building your capital ‘L’ [2], you’re now going to focus on turning both shoulders to the rod while keeping the ‘L’ shape intact [3]. I call this turning to the “imaginary wall.”
Think of the alignment stick on the ground as a thin vertical wall that is running through your trail shoulder at address. Your upper body and lower body are fully coiled to it. As you can see in the picture [3], my lead shoulder and the edge of my trail hip are both stacked over the rod. We’re now in a fantastic spot to let things unleash back through a great impact [4]. This move is a bona fide swing accelerator and usually the one that separates good golfers from those who can really mash it.
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Go in slow motion at first if you need to, but once you groove creating that capital ‘L’ in your backswing and moving it all the way to a solid top position with your shoulder and hip turn, the ball won’t know what hit it.
All the while, keep in mind that your primary goal is to deliver the club through a great impact position, no matter how far back your body allows you to turn.
It’s a process — go step by step. Soon, you’ll be striping it better than ever. There’s one more letter to keep in mind: a capital T.
ONE MORE MOVE: MAKE A “T” AT THE FINISH
Form a ‘T’ to finish the swing.
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Practice your impact position, creating the lowercase ‘y’ with your arms, club and hands. Build your swing from lowercase ‘y’ to uppercase ‘Y’. Then, move ‘L’ to ‘L’, stretching your swing by keeping all of these elements intact while finishing the full turn.
We’re now moving on to the full finish: the capital ‘T’. As you turn fully through, your trail shoulder will be closer to the target and you will be fully balanced on your lead leg, with your hands above your lead shoulder. Your body is facing the target. If you do it right, your body and the club will magically form the letter ‘T’ as you see here.
As I tell my players, you’ve done all the hard work in practice that builds a great impact. Now you’ve earned the right to let it go.
Brech Spradley is the owner and director of instruction at Barton Creek Golf Academy in Austin, Texas.
This sale includes 10 total Elyte driver variations, from the Triple Diamond Max and Elyte X to the popular mini driver and Elyte Sandstorm models.
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Callaway’s Elyte product family launched last January. The clubs feature Thermoforged carbon on the crown to help increase launch, and impressed GOLF’s group of ClubTesters.
“Didn’t need to swing hard and ball exploded off the clubhead,” said 12-handicap Jeff Smith of the Elyte driver. “Felt like I hit the dead center every time. Didn’t miss.”
“Instant pop off the clubface,” agreed 17-handicap Jerry Welker, who tested the Elyte X driver. “I need misses to be forgiven and this does the job. Superb distance with the speed I wanted, plus power and an explosive face.”
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Which Elyte model would be the best fit for your game? You can explore an in-depth review of the different driver models, including specs on spin, launch and bias preferences here.
Ready to upgrade your game for the summer season? Add the Elyte to your gear arsenal now — for less! — by clicking the links below.
Save on Callaway Elyte drivers, fairway woods and hybrids at Fairway Jockey
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Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond Max Custom Driver
Precision Meets Forgiveness
Designed specifically for tour, the Elyte Triple Diamond Max model is played by those who desire a touch more spin and forgiveness but still prefer the shape and workability of the Triple Diamond model.
The TD Max blends the footprint of Elyte (460cc) with the shape and performance characteristics of the Triple Diamond model.
Game-Changing Technologies of Elyte
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Shaped for Speed: The all-new Elyte Triple Diamond Max shape provides enhanced aerodynamics for elite speed throughout the entire golf swing.
Thermoforged Carbon Crown: This aerospace grade carbon fiber enables a low CG for optimal launch and spin.
Ai 10x Face: Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face enhances speed, spin, and dispersion across the entire face.
Callaway Elyte Triple Diamond Tour Draw Custom Driver
Draw It Like a Pro
The all-new Elyte Triple Diamond Tour Draw is designed for better golfers who desire to turn the ball over from right to left and prefer a more compact, tour-proven head shape.
Features the same shape and specifications of the popular Triple Diamond model.
The Elyte TD positions slightly more weight heel-ward to enhance a golfer’s ability to turn the ball over compared to Triple Diamond model.
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Game-Changing Technologies of Elyte
Shaped for Speed: The all-new Elyte Triple Diamond shape provides enhanced aerodynamics for elite speed throughout the entire golf swing.
Thermoforged Carbon Crown: This aerospace grade carbon fiber enables a low CG for optimal launch and spin.
Ai 10x Face: Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face enhances speed, spin, and dispersion across the entire face.
The Elyte driver features an all-new Thermoforged Carbon crown.
This aerospace grade carbon fiber enables fast head speeds while optimizing launch and spin.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face™.
Designed to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face
Modern Shape with Adjustability
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The new Elyte adjustable perimeter weighting system has utilizes a 13g moveable weight to enable a neutral, draw, or fade setting.
The Elyte model features a matte carbon crown, modern shape, and a chevron on the topline to inspire confidence off the tee and easy alignment.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
High Launch with Maximum Forgiveness
The Elyte X model is designed for players seeking maximum forgiveness and a high launch.
The X model also features neutral and draw settings with an adjustable 13g weight.
The Elyte X model comes with a matte carbon crown and a chevron on the topline to inspire confidence off the tee.
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The Future of Composites
The Elyte X driver features an all-new Thermoforged Carbon crown.
This aerospace grade carbon fiber enables fast head speeds while optimizing launch and spin.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face™.
Designed to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
Lightweight, Forgiving, Easy-To-Swing
For golfers with moderate swing speeds, the Elyte Max Fast model utilizes an ultra-lightweight design, including a lightweight shaft and grip, to deliver a very easy-to swing driver.
This ultra-forgiving model is designed to increase clubhead speed for maximized carry distance.
The Future of Composites
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The Elyte Max Fast driver features an all-new Thermoforged Carbon crown.
This aerospace grade carbon fiber enables fast head speeds while optimizing launch and spin.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face™.
Designed to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
Tour-Proven Performance
The Elyte Triple Diamond model is designed for players who desire a smaller footprint, lower spin and launch, and a neutral to fade bias shape off the tee. Featuring a gloss carbon crown and a clean topline, this model has interchangeable front-back weights to allow players to choose between more stability (heavy weight back) or lower spin (heavy weight forward).
The Future of Composites
The Elyte Triple Diamond driver features an all-new Thermoforged Carbon crown.
This aerospace grade carbon fiber enables fast head speeds while optimizing launch and spin.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face™.
Designed to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
This limited-edition Elyte Sandstorm driver isn’t just a club – it’s a bold blend of precision, style, and performance, built to be an unstoppable force on the course.
Designed for those who demand the best in both form and function, the Elyte Sandstorm delivers cutting-edge innovation, and a refined aesthetic that sets it apart.
Engineered to perform, styled to inspire—this is more than a driver. The future of performance is Elyte.
This limited-edition Elyte Sandstorm driver isn’t just a club – it’s a bold blend of precision, style, and performance, built to be an unstoppable force on the course.
Designed for those who demand the best in both form and function, the Elyte Sandstorm delivers cutting-edge innovation, and a refined aesthetic that sets it apart.
Engineered to perform, styled to inspire—this is more than a driver. The future of performance is Elyte.
Callaway Elyte Sandstorm Triple Diamond Max Driver
This limited-edition Elyte Sandstorm driver isn’t just a club – it’s a bold blend of precision, style, and performance, built to be an unstoppable force on the course.
Designed for those who demand the best in both form and function, the Elyte Sandstorm delivers cutting-edge innovation, and a refined aesthetic that sets it apart.
Engineered to perform, styled to inspire—this is more than a driver. The future of performance is Elyte.
All New Tungsten Speed Wave for consistently fast ball speeds
Featured on the 3-7 wood, the new Tungsten Speed Wave is a 35g weight that positions mass low and forward to promote fast ball speeds.
This new, innovative design is engineered specifically to enhance misses low on the face.
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Ai 10x Face for Optimal Launch and Tight Downrange Dispersion
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
Designed with our C300 Face cup to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
New Step Sole for Efficient Turf Interaction & Improved Center Face Contact
Engineered for cleaner contact, the new Step Sole minimizes skidding, ensuring smoother, more solid strikes. Developed through extensive studies and the success of the Apex UW, this sole shape delivers better turf interaction for consistent results.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
Confidence-Inspiring Design & Effortless Launch
The Elyte X model shape at address boosts confidence for looking for a larger footprint behind the ball.
Designed with a shallower face, it’s perfect for those looking for an effortless launch, delivering a high flight and draw-enhanced shot shaping.
All New Tungsten Speed Wave for Consistently Fast Ball Speeds
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Featured on the 3-7 wood, the new Tungsten Speed Wave is a 35g weight that positions mass low and forward to promote fast ball speeds.
This new, innovative design is engineered specifically to enhance misses low on the face.
Ai 10x Face for Optimal Launch and Tight Downrange Dispersion
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
Designed with our C300 Face cup to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
Lightweight Construction for Easy-to-Launch Performance
Built from the ground up for players needing lightweight, easy to swing fairway woods.
A premium lightweight construction and components will benefit players with moderate swing speeds.
All New Tungsten Speed Wave for consistently fast ball speeds
Featured on the 3-7 wood, the new Tungsten Speed Wave is a 35g weight that positions mass low and forward to promote fast ball speeds.
This new, innovative design is engineered specifically to enhance misses low on the face.
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Ai 10x Face for Optimal Launch and Tight Downrange Dispersion
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
Designed with our C300 Face cup to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
FEATURES & BENEFITS
Penetrating Flight With Low Spin
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The compact shape and deeper face of the Triple Diamond fairway wood allow players to shape shots with ease and control.
A forward weight screw promotes a lower spin rate and a more piercing ball flight for added workability.
All New Tungsten Speed Wave for consistently fast ball speeds
Featured on the 3-7 wood, the new Tungsten Speed Wave is a 35g weight that positions mass low and forward to promote fast ball speeds.
This new, innovative design is engineered specifically to enhance misses low on the face.
Ai 10x Face for Optimal Launch and Tight Downrange Dispersion
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Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
Designed with our C300 Face cup to produce exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
Callaway’s Most Adjustable Hybrid
With more adjustability in the new OptiFit 4 hosel system, the Elyte hybrids are Callaway’s most adjustable hybrids ever.
In addition to the hosel adjustability, the Elyte hybrid features heel and toe weights that can be swapped to toggle between a neutral and draw ball flight.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
With more precise Ai, the Ai10x Face produces exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
Neutral Flight & Forgiveness
The Elyte model is best suited for golfers looking for a neutral flight in a mid-sized profile.
Semi-Draw Flight & Maximum Forgiveness
The Elyte X model is best suited for golfers looking for a semi-draw flight in an oversized profile.
This model features a taller face for more forgiveness and pairs perfectly with the Elyte X irons.
Our Most Adjustable Hybrid
With more adjustability in the new OptiFit 4 hosel system, the Elyte hybrids are Callaway’s most adjustable hybrids ever.
In addition to the hosel adjustability, the Elyte hybrid features heel and toe weights that can be swapped to toggle between a neutral and draw ball flight.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
With more precise Ai, the Ai10x Face produces exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
Lightweight and Easy to Launch
The Elyte Max Fast model is best suited for golfers looking for a lightweight and easy to swing hybrid.
A shallow face height and stretched back shape make this model forgiving and easy to launch, also making it the perfect complement to the Elyte Max Fast irons.
Our Most Adjustable Hybrid
With more adjustability in the new OptiFit 4 hosel system, the Elyte hybrids are Callaway’s most adjustable hybrids ever.
In addition to the hosel adjustability, the Elyte hybrid features heel and toe weights that can be swapped to toggle between a neutral and draw ball flight.
Ai Advancements for Optimal Distance, Control, and Launch
Our most advanced Ai face to date, the new Ai10x Face delivers 10x more control points than the Ai Smart Face.
With more precise Ai, the Ai10x Face produces exceptionally fast ball speeds, tight dispersion, and optimized launch across the face.
As a four-year member of Columbia’s inaugural class of female varsity golfers, Jessica can out-birdie everyone on the masthead. She can out-hustle them in the office, too, where she’s primarily responsible for producing both print and online features, and overseeing major special projects, such as GOLF’s inaugural Style Issue, which debuted in February 2018. Her original interview series, “A Round With,” debuted in November of 2015, and appeared in both in the magazine and in video form on GOLF.com.
Arsenal-themed water bottles were on sale outside the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City fans ramped up the banter ahead of Sunday’s crucial title clash.
City were hoping to move within three points of the Gunners at the top of the table – with a game in hand – with victory over Mikel Arteta’s side.
Supporters quipped Arsenal were “bottling it” after losing to Bournemouth last weekend.
The jibes gathered momentum when a City fan was pictured holding an Arsenal bottle to his lips during their side’s 3-0 win at Chelsea. The image went viral.
(Getty)
Some enterprising fans took advantage of the situation to sell their own Arsenal-labelled bottles of water outside the ground on Sunday.
It came amid a buoyant atmosphere, with City fans greeting their team coach with blue flares.
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City went into the game with momentum having also beaten Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final last month and progressed to the FA Cup semi-finals.
Racing driver Juha Miettinen has died following a multi-car collision during the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers in Germany, an event also scheduled to feature four-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen.
Miettinen, 66, was involved in a serious incident early on, which saw seven competitors collide.
According to organisers, race control immediately halted the competition, and emergency services swiftly attended the scene.
Despite rapid intervention, Miettinen could not be saved.
He was removed from his vehicle and later pronounced dead at the medical centre after resuscitation attempts proved unsuccessful.
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“Shocked by what’s happened today,” Verstappen, who was not competing at the time of the incident, wrote in a post to his Instagram Stories.
“Motorsport is something we all love, but in times like this it is a reminder of how dangerous it can be.
“Sending my heartfelt condolences to Juha’s family and loved ones.”
The full statement from organisers of the race read: “During the first race of the ADAC 24h Nurburgring Qualifiers (18 April 2026), a serious accident involving seven competitors occurred in the early stages of the race.
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“Following the collision between several vehicles, race control immediately halted the race to allow for extensive recovery and rescue operations.
“Despite the immediate arrival of emergency services, the emergency medics were unable to save the driver involved, Juha Miettinen (BMW 325i, £121), after he had been extracted from the vehicle; the driver died at the Medical Centre after all attempts at resuscitation proved unsuccessful.
“The other six drivers involved were taken to the Medical Centre and nearby hospitals for precautionary examinations. None of the injured are in a life-threatening condition.
“The race will not resume on Saturday evening. The thoughts of everyone involved in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring are with the bereaved family of Juha Miettinen.”
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Organisers confirmed that competition would not resume on Saturday evening, and there will be a minute’s silence held in Miettinen’s honour during the grid formation when competition resumes at 1pm local time on Sunday.
Jun 10, 2025; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings guard Donovan Jackson (74) and offensive tackle Walter Rouse (73) practice during minicamp at the Minnesota Vikings Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
PurplePTSD works in partnership with Vikings Territory, similarly doing their utmost to offer top-notch coverage of the Minnesota Vikings. As a result, we’re promoting five of their top articles of the past month in “The P/PTSD Perspective.” Take a peek at some of their best stuff.
The P/PTSD Perspective: April 18th, 2026
1) Delayed Position Change Could Save Former Vikings Draftee: The idea of shuffling Walter Rouse around has been in the chatter for a little while. He offers great size and does awesome off-field work. Choosing him in the 6th always meant taking a slow approach, but it’s getting to be time to see him get onto the field.
Dec 16, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings Winter Warrior helmet before the game against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.
3) Mel Kiper Goes Explosive Route in Latest Vikings Mock Draft: Everyone is getting the final mocks across the finish line with less than a week to go. The Vikings are likely to turn toward a defender to begin the event, but not everyone agrees. We’ll see what Rob Brzezinski does.
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Apr 22, 2009; New York, NY, USA; ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. during the 2010 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-US PRESSWIRE.
4) Vikings QB Room Draws Bad Review: Wait and see. Each of the passers within that room has flaws, but that’s true for the majority of QBs in the league. There aren’t too many players within the Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson range. Minnesota’s QB spot is likely to do just fine in 2026.
5) Vikings Reportedly Doing Homework on High-Speed Runner: Some combination of Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason are set to do the bulk of the work at running back. In 2026, that’s a decent pair. What happens, though, if there’s an injury? Even if they stay healthy, preparing for 2027 makes sense.
Dec 25, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (33) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Detroit Lions in the first quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Real American Freestyle (RAF) has made its biggest signing yet. Khamzat Chimaev has officially joined the freestyle wrestling league. The promotion has, however, yet to confirm a debut date and opponent for the UFC middleweight champion. Suffice it to say, fans are excited.
RAF recently confirmed the signing on their social media handles and also aired a short promo during RAF 08.
Check out Khamzat Chimaev’s signing announcement below:
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Get the latest updates on One Championship Rankings at Sportskeeda and more
Chimaev is one of the greatest wrestling-based grapplers the UFC has ever seen. The undefeated fighter holds a takedown average of 5.29, with an 80% takedown defense.
Furthermore, he is a three-time Swedish freestyle wrestling gold medalist, winning twice at 86 kg (190 pounds) in 2016 and 2017, before returning to claim the top spot again in 2018 at 92 kg (202 pounds).
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At the Swedish national championships, Chimaev is 12-0 with seven technical falls and three pins.
With several MMA stars, including Colby Covington, Yoel Romero, and Bo Nickal, already signed to RAF, the possibilities are endless for Chimaev. True to form, as the news of the signing went viral, fans swarmed social media, sharing their reactions.
@jeetisnotunique wrote:
“Khamzat vs. Bo in RAF would be blockbuster.”
@Incognito_Guy07 chimed in:
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“Will he be competing once every 18 months for RAF like he does with UFC, I wonder?”
@GuardyGuard440 exclaimed:
“Oh my god, the matchups. Bo, get your boots ready.”
@combatmoments wrote:
“Kyle Snyder vs. Khamzat would feed generations.”
Check out a few more comments below:Screenshots courtesy: @arielhelwani on X
An Olympic gold medalist game to wrestle Khamzat Chimaev at RAF
Khamzat Chimaev’s RAF signing has certainly shaken things up. While the promotion has yet to find an opponent for ‘Borz’, an Olympic gold medalist said he’d be game to take on the UFC star.
During the post-event press conference for RAF 08, 2016 Rio Olympics gold medalist and four-time world champion Kyle Snyder opined that it would be good for Chimaev to get a few RAF wrestling matches under his belt, before he faces him.
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The reigning RAF light heavyweight champion added:
“Yeah, I mean, I think, give him a couple of matches first. Not that he’s got to earn the spot, but I think for his own benefit, just having a couple of wrestling matches underneath him will be good. And if he ever wants to compete against me, I mean, I’m always ready, so anytime.”
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