Sports
With past heartbreak in mind, La Salle nears unbeaten title run
La Salle’s last shot at a perfect UAAP season ended in heartbreak—and some members of that squad were around on Wednesday to help this batch of Lady Spikers keep their unbeaten run intact.
“It wasn’t like they were telling us exactly what to do to avoid those kinds of heartbreaks,” Angel Canino, the La Salle star hitter, said. “It was more about motivating us, reminding us that we can do it, that they’re there to support us, and that they believe in us.”
Canino and her teammates took the first step toward deleting that old memory.
Shaking off the effects of a 17-day hiatus, La Salle moved a game closer to a perfect title run after blanking defending champion National University, 25-23, 25-18, 25-18, in Game 1 of the Season 88 women’s volleyball best-of-three championship series at Mall of Asia Arena.
A win in Saturday’s Game 2 will not only end a three-year drought but also cap La Salle’s unblemished run to the crown.
On a day of slaying ghosts, Canino fired 17 points in the dominant victory, which came amid memories of the last time the Lady Spikers were in contention for a perfect season.
That was in Season 76, when the Taft-based school swept its way to an outright title berth, only to be waylaid by fierce rival Ateneo and a young rising star named Alyssa Valdez.
“Season 76 was a nightmare. It still haunts the team. Back then, we swept the eliminations with Aby (Maraño) still leading the team, but Ateneo fought all the way in the finals,” coach Ramil de Jesus recalled.
CJ Saga and Lexi Tatlonghari, who played for De Jesus that season, were present to cheer on the current Lady Spikers.
“It makes a big difference when former Lady Spikers—our ates (older sisters)—come up to us and show that kind of trust. We really appreciate it because, as players, we tend to overthink sometimes. So when they tell us, ‘We’re here, we believe in you,’ it means a lot and really helps us.”
De Jesus doubled down on the lessons from that season to make sure his current team understood the task at hand.
“I told them I don’t want that to happen again. Every year, we prepare for whoever the defending champion is. Now we’re back in this situation … Not everyone gets this opportunity, so we have to make the most of it,” he said.
Because of its eliminations sweep, La Salle had to wait 17 days before seeing action again, as teams had to play a stepladder semifinals for the right to face the Lady Spikers in the championship.
But after getting through a testy first set, it was clear La Salle did not have to deal with rust as they moved closer to their 13th championship.
“I told the team that the stepladder format is [also] tough [for us] because the other teams get … used to the pressure while we’re resting,” said De Jesus.
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
“So I told the players we just have to match that intensity. Earlier, I noticed we started a bit slow, but later in the set we adjusted and kept up. By then, they were handling the pressure better.”
Shane Reterta also delivered the goods for La Salle with 11 points, 23 receptions and nine digs. Amie Provido finished with 12 points, highlighted by four kill blocks, as captain Shevana Laput finished with 11 points.
If you buy a linked product,
GOLF.COM may earn a fee. Pricing may vary.
Titleist Pro V1 2025 Personalized Golf Balls
h2>THE GREATEST COMBINATION OF SPEED, SPIN AND FEEL For players who prioritize total performance. New faster high gradient core Speed amplifying high-flex casing layer Spherically-tiled 388 tetrahedral dimple design Soft cast urethane elastomer cover Product Features New faster high gradient core delivers more speed and iron and wedge spin for more control Low long game spin from a speed amplifying high-flex casing layer Penetrating and consistent flight from a spherically-tiled 388 tetrahedral dimple design Excellent greenside spin from a soft cast urethane elastomer cover Player Benefits Extraordinary Distance Increased Drop-and-Stop™ control Very low long game spin Penetrating trajectory Consistent flight Very soft feel What’s New – (what performance attributes have improved) 2025 Pro V1 and Pro V1x produce more speed off the tee, more control with irons, more spin with wedges and more opportunity to shoot lower scores. Player Profile For players who prioritize total performance. Available Colors and Play Numbers White golf balls are available with play numbers 1-4, 5-8, and all the same play number 00 or 1- 99. High optic yellow golf balls are available with play numbers 1-4. Not available for purchase or shipment to Australia.
View Product
Driver
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Specs
Ping G440 K 9.0˚
Actual Loft: 8.0˚
Ping Trajectory 2.0 Setting: Small Minus (-)
CG Shifter: Neutral
Head Weight: 204.5g
Shaft: UST Mamiya LIN-Q Powercore White 6TX
Length: 45″
Tipping: 1″
Swingweight: D4
Theegala loves to work the ball left to right and be creative with his shot selection, but that made using Ping’s previous high MOI driver, the G430 Max 10K, a challenge because his ball would just go straight.
With the new G440 K, that hasn’t been the case and that made it a no-brainer move from his G430 LST.
“He saw the extra stability, no loss in ball speed, he was still able to cut it a little bit,” Oates said. “He’s like, ‘You can’t cut it as much as the LST, but I could cut it enough where I was comfortable,’ and just the extra forgiveness has really been a benefit for him.”
Before the head change, he was also looking for a shaft with a little more feel than the Mitsubishi Diamana BB he played last season or Project X HZRDUS Black before that. He needs something that keeps his spin in check, but the extra feel would allow him to be more creative.
He found it in the new LIN-Q Powercore White.
“He ended up showing up with LIN-Q and hasn’t really made any comments other than he really likes it,” Oates said.
PING G440 K Custom Driver
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
4-wood
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Specs
Ping G440 Max 17˚
Actual Loft: 15.75˚
Ping Trajectory 2.0 Setting: Small Minus (-)
Head Weight: 215g
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD DI-8 TX
Length: 43″
Tipping: 1″
Swingweight: D5
At times throughout his career, Theegala has gone without a 3-wood and instead opted for a 16-degree G425 hybrid nicknamed the Franken-hybrid, or Frank.
But Frank hasn’t made too many appearances in the bag as of late. Still, Theegala doesn’t play a 3-wood in the traditional sense, instead opting for either strong 5-woods or the G440 Max 4-wood he’s using recently.
The G440 fairway family (MAX, LST, SFT) advances PING’s reputation as a Tour-preferred model of choice through a re-designed face structure and low CG system. The face is taller for more confidence off the tee while maintaining a CG location that delivers high- launching performance off the ground. The MAX model (which fits most golfers) is available in five lofts (including a new 4-wood) to provide more gapping solutions. 
PING G440 Max Custom Fairway Wood
HIGH MOI
Easy to launch, stable design increases forgiveness.
FLEXING FACE
Maraging steel face flexes for more ball speed, optimizes spin.
TALLER FACE PROFILE
Improves performance off the tee, maintains low CG.
FREE-HOSEL DESIGN
Saves weight to lower CG, optimize launch/spin and increase forgiveness.
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
Utility Iron
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Specs
Ping iDi 3
Actual Loft: 19˚
Lie: 59.75˚
Shaft: Graphite Design Tour AD Di-85 Hybrid X
Length: 39.75″
Swingweight: D1
Theegala has used the pictured i210 3-iron off and on throughout his career, but starting at last month’s RBC Heritage, he replaced it with a new iDi driving iron that appears to have a more permanent spot in the bag.
“Get a little more forgiveness, a little more distance…,” Oates said. “It’s going to allow him to hit a higher trajectory, so he’s going to have more versatility out of that club.”
The iDi marks a big step forward in driving iron and long-iron performance, giving better golfers the flexibility of three loft choices to fit their distance number and trajectory window.
PING iDi Custom Driving Iron
Loft offerings are optimized for launch and spin in 2, 3 & 4 irons with a thinner, forged maraging steel face that flexes to increase ball speed and distance. The 2 is a traditional driving iron, delivering low launch and spin. The 3 (mid launch, mid spin) is designed as a driving iron or long-iron replacement. The 4 launches higher with more spin, making it easier to hold greens and is also recommended as a long iron replacement.
The 17-4 stainless steel head is both deeper front to back and shallower, which allows for 15% higher MOI on high/low impacts, and makes room for the new inR-Air technology. inR-Air is a pocket of air in the clubhead that damps sound and improves feel. The covered cavity and i-Beam structure help reduce vibration. In addition, iDi is shorter heel-to-toe to make it easier to tun over. For control in shot making, each iDi is approximately 1/4″ shorter and 1° flatter.
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
9-wood
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Specs
Ping G440 Max 24˚
Actual Loft: 22˚
Ping Trajectory 2.0 Setting: Big Minus (—)
Head Weight: 234g
Shaft: Project X HZRDUS Smoke Green 90g 6.5
Length: 40.5″
Tipping: 2″
Swingweight: D2
Oh, you thought we’d get into the rest of the iron set here, didn’t you?
Theegala’s next club in his bag after the 3-iron is a 9-wood, and it’s the addition of his new iDi, which is going to allow for the 9-wood to be a more permanent addition.
“I do think the addition of the iDi is going to open up an opportunity for him to maybe move a 9-wood in and out more,” Oates said. “When he has that, he might feel more comfortable giving up maybe a 4-iron per se and going with the 9-wood.”
The 9-wood was a club that Theegala said he never expected to game, but he ended up using at both the 2024 and 2025 Masters.
The choice is more about giving Theegala more leeway to be a shot-maker rather than gapping his bag.
“Sahith is a very feel-oriented player,” Oates said. “He can hit any shot at any time. So he doesn’t really gap his stuff much.”
He could hit his 9-wood 160, or he could hit his 9-wood 240. So it’s really more comfort, feel, and solidness of strike. ‘Can I hit the window and the shot I’m trying to hit with this club?’ And then piece my bag together off of that.”
So yes, Theegala’s bag goes Driver to 4-wood, to 3-iron, to 9-wood to 5-iron, but then it only gets wackier from here.
PING G440 Max Custom Fairway Wood
The G440 fairway family (MAX, LST, SFT) advances PING’s reputation as a Tour-preferred model of choice through a re-designed face structure and low CG system. The face is taller for more confidence off the tee while maintaining a CG location that delivers high- launching performance off the ground. The MAX model (which fits most golfers) is available in five lofts (including a new 4-wood) to provide more gapping solutions.
HIGH MOI
Easy to launch, stable design increases forgiveness.
FLEXING FACE
Maraging steel face flexes for more ball speed, optimizes spin.
TALLER FACE PROFILE
Improves performance off the tee, maintains low CG.
FREE-HOSEL DESIGN
Saves weight to lower CG, optimize launch/spin and increase forgiveness.
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
Irons
;)
;)
Specs
Ping Blueprint S 5-PW
Shafts: Project X 6.5
Lofts: 27/30.5/34/38/42/46
Lies: 59.75/60.25/60.75/61.75/62.75/63.25
Length: +.25″ (37.25″ 8+ iron)
Swingweight: D3+ to D4+
Theegala switched to the Ping Blueprint S cavity-back irons after playing blades for most of his career, just before his lone PGA Tour victory at the 2023 Fortinet Championship.
As Oates tells it, he was showing Theegala the new Blueprint S and T irons in 2023 at his home, then in Houston, so he could try them out. It didn’t take much convincing for him to switch.
“He hit the Blueprint S pitching wedge three times and goes, ‘Oh, I’ll just play these irons. This thing’s great,’” Oates said. “And literally, from that moment, has played Blueprint S. We obviously went through the rest of the bag that day… but he was legit sold on the entire set of irons because the pitching wedge was really good and he was struggling with the pitching wedge at that time.”
But the most legendary club in Theegala’s bag is his 8-plus-iron, dubbed the “Ocho.” By now, the story is well known that in 2024, Theegala was struggling with his 7-iron to the point where he asked Oates if they could make him a 7-iron that didn’t have a “7” on it.
Ping had no issues cooking one up.
“It’s a 7-iron head that we simply ground the sole just to the point where we got the 7 off,” Oates said. “Then we laser-etch an 8 on it and build it to 7-iron length, loft, lie and everything.”
Developed following extensive testing with PING’s top tour pros to meet their “must haves” — control and precision — Blueprint S delivers the score-lowering performance demanded by the best players in the world.
PING Blueprint S Custom Irons
COMPACT SHAPE
The compact shape fits the discerning eye with a thin top line and minimal offset. The 8620 carbon steel head boasts a clean cavity design, distinguished by an eye-catching forged textured pattern and hydropearl 2.0 chrome finish.
PRECISION POCKET FORGING
This patented forging technique allows PING to forge a pocket into the cavity of the 3, 4 and 5 irons. The pocket saves 10 grams of weight, which is re-allocated to increase the MOI and optimize the center of gravity position for more distance and trajectory control.
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
Wedges
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Specs
Ping S259, S159
Loft/Grinds: 50/S, 54/2, 62T @ 59˚
Finish: Midnight (50), Chrome (54, 62)
Shafts: Project X 6.5 Black (50), Dynamic Gold Tour Issue S400 (54, 62)
Lies: 62/62.25/61.5
Length: 36″/35.75″/35.5″
Swingweight: D5/D6/D7
Theegala’s lob wedge is also a highly custom job from the Ping Tour team. The “59ST” wedge is created from a S159 62T lob wedge that is bent three degrees strong to add the offset Theegala loved in the previous Ping Glide 2.0.
Oates said Theegala possesses incredible hands and really loves to manipulate the face to be creative around the greens. He ranks 11th in SG: Around-the-Green this season.
By bending his wedge strongly, he’s also losing bounce, which Theegala loves. The sole is then heavily ground to reclaim the shape of the T-Grind while also adding some heel relief to allow Theegala to be even more creative. They also need to grind out the “62” on the toe.
“Anyone with really good hands can handle a lot of heel relief,” Oates said. “Sahith has played so many shots from such an aggressively open face.
“On paper, it’s like three degrees of bounce, but when you open that thing up to 85 degrees, it doesn’t matter. You’re adding all the bounce when you open it.”
Lastly, Theegala’s 50-degree gap wedge is a mismatch from the rest of his set, glazed in Midnight finish rather than the chrome of his other two wedges. It also has a black Project X 6.5 shaft to match.
There’s no reason for it. That’s Theegala’s personality to a T.
“It is a strict vibe-only addition to the golf bag,” Oates said. “He holed out with it and I texted him, ‘black wedge for the vibes,’ and he goes, ‘yep, making twos.’”
PING s159 Custom Wedge
With the addition of two grinds and new lofts, the tour-style s159 wedges are available in 25 loft/grind combinations to match a wedge to your playing conditions and technique while ensuring a properly gapped set. Extensive testing with top PING tour players helped create wedges that will appeal to golfers of all abilities. The new WebFit Wedge app provides a quick and easy way to determine the s159 grinds that best fit your game.
Tour-Proven Design
The tour-inspired 8620 carbon steel head features a soft feel and clean shape with a straighter lead edge for improved results on full shots. Two performance-enhancing finishes (Hybropearl 2.0 Chrome and Midnight) are available in all loft/grind combinations.
More Grooves. More Spin.
Wheel-cut grooves are precision-milled to varying dimensions, depending on loft. The 46-to-52-degree wedges are milled to maximize groove volume for greater control on full shots. The 54-to-62-degree options feature more tightly spaced MicroMax grooves to impart more spin, especially around the greens.
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
Putter
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
Specs
Ping Custom TR 1966 Anser 2
Finish: Satin
Loft: 3˚
Lie: 69˚
Length: 35.5″
Grip: SuperStroke Flatso 1.0
Theegala has used a milled Ping Anser blade going back to his college days. But, that’s not the putter you might see him using on the putting green on Monday, Tuesday or even his Wednesday pro-ams.
“A majority of weeks — over 50%, I’d argue 75% of the time — he uses a practice putter at the beginning of the week,” Oates said.
But the thing is, it’s not even the same putter, nor does he care what kind of putter it is.
“He’ll just say, ‘hey, grab me a putter,’ and you can bring him anything,” Oates said. “Different grips, lengths, lies, lofts. We rarely spec it. He doesn’t want it. He’s just like, yeah, bring it to me, I’ll play with it.”
But come Thursday, his Anser blade is right back in the bag and he shows no signs of switching to a mallet.
The winningest putter in golf history continues to set the standard with its rounded corners and soft ballasts, making setup and aiming easier in the slight arc design. Heel-toe perimeter weighting ensures forgiveness. Control and consistency
PING 2024 PLD Milled Anser Custom Putter
Quality and precision
A solid block of forged, 303 stainless steel requires more than four hours of milling time; precisely shaping every surface and radius to achieve the high quality and premium look expected in a precision-milled putter.
A precision-milled face pattern, known as deep AMP (Aggressive Milling Pattern), is inspired by tour player feedback and provides the feel and speed control you need to deliver score-lowering consistency on the green.
View Product
ALSO AVAILABLE AT: PGA Tour Superstore
Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet 360
;)
Jack Hirsh/GOLF
The author welcomes your comments at Jack.Hirsh@golf.com.
Want to overhaul your bag in 2026? Find a club-fitting location near you at True Spec Golf.
“>
Haslam spoke Wednesday alongside general manager Jon Horst at a news conference introducing Taylor Jenkins as the Bucks’ coach. Antetokounmpo has spent his entire 13-year career with the Bucks, but it’s possible he could leave Milwaukee after a frustrating, injury-marred season.
“I just think before the draft is a natural time,” Haslam said. “Because if Giannis does play somewhere else, we’ve got to have a lot of assets. That’s Jon’s job to do. And if he’s here, then you build the team differently.”
Antetokounmpo has said repeatedly that he likes playing in Milwaukee but wants to play for a franchise committed to competing for championships. The Bucks went 32-50 this season to snap a string of nine straight playoff appearances.
The Bucks can offer Antetokounmpo a four-year, $275 million contract extension in October. If Antetokounmpo doesn’t sign, he could become a free agent after next season.
Haslam, also a co-owner of the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, would like the matter settled long before October. He spoke Wednesday as though the decision rests with the Bucks as much as it does with Antetokounmpo.
“We never had any problem communicating directly with Giannis — at all — and always knew where he stood,” Haslam said. “And I think he always knew where we stood. We’ve had those kind of conversations since the season was over. … So sometime over the next six or seven weeks, we’ll decide whether Giannis is going to sign a max contract and stay with us, or he’s going to play somewhere else. And Jon and Taylor, along with (co-owner) Wes (Edens) and myself will make that call, and we understand the gravity of that call.”
The Bucks will have a lottery pick this year, either in their own spot or in New Orleans’ spot, whichever is less favourable. The draft lottery is on Sunday.
Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to their first title in half a century in 2021, and he owns virtually all the franchise’s major career records. He won the first of his two straight MVP awards in 2018-19, when Jenkins was an assistant on Mike Budenholzer’s staff.
Horst noted the Bucks have sought input from Antetokounmpo and other players during previous coaching searches, but that they didn’t do that this time. Jenkins said he has communicated with Antetokounmpo since he took the job.
“He’s expressed tremendous excitement for me and my family,” Jenkins said. “Obviously, even only being here for one season, he and I established a really good relationship and maintained that respect, even from a distance.”
The 41-year-old Jenkins coached the Grizzlies from 2019-25 and went 250-214, leading them to three straight playoff appearances from 2021-23. Memphis got beyond the first round under Jenkins just once, in 2022, when the second-seeded Grizzlies beat Minnesota before losing to Golden State in the Western Conference semifinals.
Memphis was decimated by injuries in 2023-24 and went 27-55. The Grizzlies fired Jenkins with nine games left in the 2024-25 season and were swept by eventual champion Oklahoma City in the first round of the playoffs.
Jenkins’ success with Memphis made him an attractive head coaching candidate, and he quickly focused on a possible return to Milwaukee rather than waiting to find out if any playoff teams made coaching changes.
He understood it was possible he wouldn’t be coaching Antetokounmpo.
“When this opportunity became available, I was like, I know the people,” Jenkins said. “I know what they stand for. I know what their standards are going to be on a day-to-day basis.”
Jenkins will become the Bucks’ fourth coach in five seasons, not counting Joe Prunty’s three-game interim stint in February 2024.
Budenholzer, who led Milwaukee to the 2021 title, was fired after a 2023 playoff loss to Miami. Adrian Griffin lasted barely half a season, going 30-13 before he was fired. Doc Rivers took over and stepped down after this season with a 97-103 record.
The Bucks were one of the league’s most disappointing teams this season as injuries limited Antetokounmpo to a career-low 36 games.
“Giannis has brought Milwaukee its second championship and the first in 50 years,” Haslam said. “He’s a phenomenal player. He’s a phenomenal person. He’s arguably one of the best basketball players in the world and we will do what’s best for Giannis and what’s best for the organization. We don’t know whether Giannis will stay with us or not, but we’ll work through that with Giannis in the coming weeks.”
Terence Crawford has shared his initial thoughts on Errol Spence Jr’s comeback fight, which will see him face former world champion Tim Tszyu on July 25.
Spence has not fought since July 2023, when he was relieved of his WBC, IBF and WBA welterweight titles after suffering a ninth-round stoppage defeat to Crawford.
Sure enough, the result sent shockwaves across the boxing landscape, as many had expected Spence to become an undisputed champion against his domestic rival.
Crawford, of course, would go on to become a three-division undisputed king by dethroning Canelo Alvarez last September, before calling time on his glittering career in December.
As for Spence, it is difficult to predict what version of ‘The Truth’ will turn up this summer, when he faces Tszyu in a non-title showdown at 154lbs.
If nothing else, the extra 7lbs should make a sizable difference as he looks to reinvent himself as a genuine super-welterweight contender.
Tszyu, meanwhile, finds himself in a similar situation as he looks to claim his first meaningful win since unanimously outpointing Brian Mendoza in 2023.
Since then, defeats to Sebastian Fundora and Bakhram Murtazaliev have almost caused the 31-year-old to drift away from the world title scene, from which Spence appears to be even further removed.
Regardless of how his encounter with Tszyu unfolds in Australia, though, Crawford has promised via social media to support his former foe all the way.
“Good seeing you back out there. Get to it, I’ll be there supporting.”
@ErrolSpenceJr good seeing you back out there. Get to it, I’ll be there supporting.
— Terence Crawford (@terencecrawford) May 3, 2026
While Crawford’s unanimous decision victory over Canelo was a phenomenal achievement, many still consider his stoppage of Spence to be a more career-defining moment.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Kenneth Walker III cemented himself as one of the best running backs in the NFL last season, playing not just a large role in helping the Seattle Seahawks reach Super Bowl LX, but being named MVP in that win over the New England Patriots in February.
But many wondered what Walker, an impending free agent, would do in the offseason: stay in Seattle or head elsewhere on the market.
During the Super Bowl LX parade in Seattle, Seahawks GM John Schneider had an awkward moment with Walker that went viral after telling “The 12” in the crowd he tried to negotiate a new contract with him during the festivities.
Walker denied that on his Instagram stories later, but the tune was different when things calmed down.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III runs during the Super Bowl at Levi’s Stadium on Feb. 8, 2026. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
Walker, one of the top free agents on the market, signed a three-year deal worth $43.1 million with the Kansas City Chiefs, which ranks fourth in average annual value among NFL running backs. When asked about losing the Super Bowl MVP, Schneider said it was “a position where you can find guys.”
“I didn’t see him say it, but you know how they are with the running backs, or you know how it is in this industry,” Walker told Fox News Digital about Schneider’s statement, while also discussing his partnership with Oral-B. “They feel like they can replace you like that. So, if you think that way, it’s on him.
“But, yeah, I don’t really pay no mind to that. I’m focused on what I gotta do here, learning the playbook and making an impact where I’m at right now.”
Schneider did say that Walker was outstanding for the Seahawks during his time with the franchise, but he pointed to George Holani and newcomer Emanuel Wilson, who joined the team from the Green Bay Packers. Zach Charbonnet, who worked in tandem with Walker, is also recovering from a torn ACL heading into the 2026 season.
Schneider also made sure to draft a running back high last month, securing Notre Dame’s Jadarian Price with the last pick of the first round.
But Walker doesn’t care what his former team is doing now. Other than leaving his teammates, Walker enjoyed what the Chiefs brought to the table during the free agency tampering period, agreeing to terms on day one. And seeing quarterback Patrick Mahomes get amped with a social media post when Walker signed made it that much sweeter.
“It’s been great,” Walker said about getting acclimated with Mahomes. “You see what type of leader he is. He’s real vocal. He controls a lot of things on the offense and things like that. He’s real humble, too. Getting to know him has been real cool. Getting to meet everyone else on the team as well. It’s been cool to be able to bond and we’ll continue to build that bond as we go throughout the year.”
Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider speaks to the media during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis Feb. 24, 2026. (Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images)
Walker secured his second career 1,000-yard rushing season with the Seahawks in 2025, and he admitted to being aware that the Chiefs haven’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since Kareem Hunt did it in 2017.
While that’s on his mind, he knows the Chiefs signed him, and paid him top-tier money, to make an impact no matter if it’s on the ground or through the air. And forget last season, no matter what accolades came with it.
Walker is looking for more than just one memorable season as he tackles this next chapter in the Midwest.
“I’m not satisfied with that, honestly. I can’t lie,” he said. “As long as you play the game, you really won’t get satisfied with anything until you retire, I guess. My goal is really making a positive impact any way I can. I want to go out there and ball and help the team win games.”
Super Bowl LX MVP and Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III addresses the media during a news conference at Moscone Center West in San Francisco Feb. 9, 2026. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
WALKER’S TEETH-BRUSHING OBSESSION
Chiefs players and coaches will learn quickly that Walker’s pregame routine must involve brushing his teeth before stepping foot on the field. And he’s very serious about his oral hygiene.
It made partnering with Oral-B, the official toothbrush of the NFL, a no-brainer for the Michigan State product. The Oral-B’s iO Series Electric Toothbrush is featured in all locker rooms across the NFL, and since he started his routine in middle school, Walker will be using that in Kansas City now as a good luck charm before putting his pads on.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
“Definitely got to brush my teeth before. Growing up, my pops would always harp on it. So, brush my teeth before games and everything else. I gotta do it,” he said.
“Oral health, a lot of people overlook. I feel like it’s real important. It can have effects on other parts of your body. Having your oral health in top shape is important.”
Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
The wait for a first Champions League title since 2020 goes on for Bayern Munich after holders Paris Saint-Germain knocked them out at the semifinal stage. A 1-1 draw in Munich on Wednesday completed a 6-5 aggregate win.
After a breathless 5-4 first leg defeat in Paris that has already been labeled one of competition’s greatest games, Bayern soon found themselves two down in the tie. Ousmane Dembele delivered the early blow, the former Borussia Dortmund forward lashing home in the third minute after some smart work from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Holders PSG showed in the French capital that they are not a side to always sit tight on a position of strength and both sides continued at a rapid pace. PSG’s leftback Nuno Mendes was lucky to escape a second yellow card for handball, infuriating the German fans in the Allianz Arena and Bayern’s usually unflappable coach, Vincent Kompany.
Handball controversies frustrate Bayern
Moments later, those same fans and that same coach were enraged by another handball call, as the ball struck Vitinha in the arm in the box but the referee took no action and opted against calling on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer was forced to remonstrate with his own fans to stop throwing missiles on the pitch. The warning was heeded.
Bayern’s Jamal Musiala came close three times shortly before the break but the German champions went in at halftime with plenty still to do.
But as the second half minutes ebbed away, Bayern’s frustrations became clearer with every aborted attack. Though they worked themselves in to some promising positions, Bayern lacked the conviction they showed last week and throughout a record-breaking Bundesliga season, while PSG remained a threat on the break. Harry Kane got a goal back in the final moments but time was almost up, and so was another European campaign for Bayern.
“We weren’t ‘killers’ in attack today. That key moment in the game was simply missing. We were there, but things weren’t sharp enough inside the PSG box. Right now, disappointment is the overriding emotion for us,” said Neuer to broadcaster DAZN post match.
PSG looking to retain Champions League, Bayern still have double chance
With the league wrapped up, Bayern can win a 13th domestic double with victory over Stuttgart in the German Cup final on May 23. But Kompany and Neuer know that even that is not enough for this particular club.
“We deservedly became German champions,” said the goalkeeper: “We’re looking forward to the cup final in Berlin. Of course, we’re not thinking about that right now though, because the disappointment is naturally overwhelming.”
PSG, on the other hand, will be looking to the weekend after that and a second Champions League final in a row. Should they win, they will be the first club to retain the trophy since Real Madrid won it three times in a row between 2016 and 2018.
The Qatari-owned French side will play English Premier League leaders Arsenal, who edged past Atletico Madrid in the other semifinal on Tuesday, in the final in Budapest on May 30.
Edited by: Wesley Dockery
Sports
IPL 2026: Heinrich Klaasen goes top of Orange Cap list after match-winning knock vs PBKS | Cricket News
Heinrich Klaasen has surged to the top of the Orange Cap standings after his fluent 69 off 43 balls against Punjab Kings, a knock that helped Sunrisers Hyderabad secure a crucial win and climb to the top of the table. Klaasen’s innings, which included three fours and four sixes, underlined his consistency this season. He now leads the run charts with 494 runs in 11 matches, averaging 54.89 at a strike rate of 157.32. What makes his effort stand out even more is his batting position. Unlike most players in the top run-scorers list, Klaasen operates outside the top three, making his numbers even more impressive given the limited balls he often faces. Right behind him is Abhishek Sharma, who continues to dominate at the top of the order. He has scored 475 runs in 11 matches at an average of 47.50, striking at a remarkable 210.18. His aggressive approach has been a key factor in SRH’s success this season. KL Rahul sits third with 445 runs from 10 matches, averaging 49.44 at a strike rate of 180.89. He has combined stability with intent, playing anchor roles while still maintaining a high scoring rate. Ishan Kishan is fourth on the list with 409 runs in 11 matches. He has averaged 37.18 and scored at a strike rate of 186.76, often providing brisk starts and maintaining momentum through the middle overs. Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been one of the standout performers this season. With 404 runs in 10 matches, he has averaged 40.40 while striking at an extraordinary 237.65, the highest among the leading run-scorers. His fearless hitting has made him one of the most exciting batters in the tournament. Sanju Samson completes the top group with 402 runs in 10 matches. He boasts the best average among the leading names at 57.43, along with a strong strike rate of 167.50, highlighting his ability to anchor and finish games under pressure.
Orange Cap standings (IPL 2026):
| Player | Matches | Inns | Runs | Avg | SR | 4s | 6s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heinrich Klaasen | 11 | 11 | 494 | 54.89 | 157.32 | 36 | 23 |
| Abhishek Sharma | 11 | 11 | 475 | 47.50 | 210.18 | 43 | 36 |
| KL Rahul | 10 | 10 | 445 | 49.44 | 180.89 | 44 | 24 |
| Ishan Kishan | 11 | 11 | 409 | 37.18 | 186.76 | 41 | 22 |
| Vaibhav Sooryavanshi | 10 | 10 | 404 | 40.40 | 237.65 | 35 | 37 |
| Sanju Samson | 10 | 10 | 402 | 57.43 | 167.50 | 42 | 21 |
Floyd Mayweather’s 50-0 record is one of the most impressive achievements in boxing, with a host of legends unable to overcome him, but there is one former opponent who disagrees with that unbeaten run, believing that he should have got the decision when they fought.
In a 50-fight career, Mayweather rarely got caught clean, with Shane Mosley famously being the only opponent to rock the Michigan slickster, despite facing the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto and Manny Pacquiao. It was another man, however, who gave Floyd his closest fight – and one that many in the sport feel he lost.
Speaking to ESNEWS this week, José Luis Castillo reaffirmed his belief that he should have got the decision when he first fought Mayweather in April 2002 – deemed to be the American’s most controversial win.
Mayweather – defending his WBC lightweight title – boxed much of the bout with an injured left shoulder and was forced to rely heavily on movement and right-hand counters, while Castillo applied constant pressure and enjoyed success to the body.
Many observers felt the Mexican had done enough to win, but Mayweather retained his belt via unanimous decision (116-111, 115-111, 115-111), with the scoring drawing significant controversy and eventually leading to a rematch later that year.
The American would score a more decisive victory, but to this day his initial encounter with ‘El Terrible’ remains his most disputed triumph.
Fast forward to today and it the famous undefeated record could be put at risk in the coming months, with a rematch against Pacquiao announced for September.
It would have ended a nine-year run of professional inactivity at the age of 49, but the contest has now been put thrown doubt after Mayweather claiming it will instead be an exhibition. Pacquiao’s side disagree, and say binding contracts will ensure the fight goes ahead as announced.
Sports
IPL 2026: ‘Dropped catches cost us’- Shreyas Iyer rues missed chances as PBKS suffer third straight defeat | Cricket News
Sunrisers Hyderabad produced a dominant performance to beat Punjab Kings and move to the top of the IPL 2026 table, as Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan capitalised on sloppy fielding to power their side to a strong total before the bowlers sealed control in the chase. Heinrich Klaasen (69) and Ishan Kishan (55) helped Sunrisers Hyderabad reach 235/4 after Punjab Kings opted to bowl. In reply, Punjab Kings were restricted to 202/7 despite a stunning unbeaten century from Cooper Connolly (107*), as SRH’s disciplined bowling ensured they claimed a 41-run win and climbed to the top of the table. For Punjab Kings, it was a third consecutive defeat, with dropped catches proving costly throughout the innings. Klaasen and Kishan both survived early chances before punishing the attack, while SRH’s bowlers, including Pat Cummins and Shivang Kumar, applied constant pressure in the chase. PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer was candid after the loss, pointing to fielding lapses as the key difference between the two sides. “I think it was a bit too much (the target) because we dropped many catches at the start and we could have easily delayed their score by 30 to 40 runs, I guess. Because the wicket kept getting slower and the cutters were holding up a bit. So we weren’t that comprehensive enough on the field, nor in bowling, nor in batting. So I think they played comprehensive cricket and they showed us how to win the match.” Reflecting on his team’s recent slump after a strong start to the season, he added: “I feel we got a fairy tale start in this tournament and everyone were in a great space and the mindset was top notch. I think it’s important that we stick with the same mindset. It’s easy to get diverted with talking negative about things. But definitely we got to go back, reflect on things that we didn’t do well in the particular last three matches and see to it that we come back strong.” Iyer also praised the fighting spirit of Cooper Connolly, who kept PBKS in the contest almost single-handedly: “He’s phenomenal (Connolly). His mindset is top notch and the character he brings onto the field. It’s something that all players can learn from him. And apart from that, I feel that he’s got a knack of scoring big runs in pressure situations. He has done it in the past and today was the right example. He was fearless and his attitude was fantastic against left-handers (Chahal).” He further admitted that fielding errors changed the course of the game: “I asked him to be attacking, especially when the new batsmen were in because they were on the charge right from ball one. And it was crucial to get wickets at that point of time. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to take catches. I think that was the biggest setback for us in today’s game. But definitely something to reflect on and come back stronger.”
Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd needs to undergo surgery on his left knee to repair a meniscus injury, manager Craig Counsell told reporters Wednesday. The injury happened when Boyd was sitting down to play with his kids, Counsell said.
The initial takeaway is that this inducts Boyd into the unfortunate injury Hall of Fame. Francisco Liriano suffering a broken arm while trying to scare his kids at Christmas is up there and I can never shake Jeremy Affeldt slicing his hand open while trying to separate frozen hamburger patties at a cookout. There was once a violent Sammy Sosa sneeze and, of course, who could forget the Glenallen Hill/spider incident?
On the field, this one really hurts the Cubs, at least in terms of depth. Boyd hasn’t been good at all so far this season. He’s pitched to a 6.00 ERA and 1.29 WHIP in 24 innings. The big problem is that he was likely to get better moving forward, and now the Cubs’ depth has been depleted.
Remember, Cade Horton is out for the season and Justin Steele suffered a setback in his attempted return from Tommy John surgery. The Cubs entered the season with eight viable starters, but until Boyd — or Steele, if he somehow is back before Boyd — returns, the number is now just five.
It looks like the Cubs will have little margin for error in the rotation now with Shota Imanaga, Edward Cabrera, Jameson Taillon, Colin Rea and Javier Assad. Ben Brown is too valuable at this point in his bullpen role to change jobs again and the top minor-league option, Jaxon Wiggins, is currently injured.
To this point, the Cubs have weathered the proverbial storm. They rank ninth in the majors with a 3.90 rotation ERA and entered play Wednesday within arm’s length of the best record in baseball at 24-12. It’s actually tied for the second-best start in club history, trailing only the World Series champion 2016 Cubs. The lead in the NL Central is 2.5 games.
Gwyneth Paltrow’s ‘Tone-Deaf’ Remarks About ‘Rich White Dudes’
Man who sexually assaulted young girl claimed he ‘didn’t know what he was doing’
Rupee surges 67 paise in steepest one-day gain in a month
Manchester United reach agreement with Casemiro over contract clause amid transfer speculation
US brings back mandatory military draft registration
Steven Gerrard disagrees with Gary Neville over ‘shock’ Chelsea and Arsenal claim | Football
-
NewsBeat3 days agoChannel 5 – All Creatures Great and Small series 7 new post
-
Entertainment7 days agoInsider Claims Reason Behind Key & Peele Split
-
Tech5 days agoTrump’s 25% EU auto tariff breaches Turnberry Agreement that also covers semiconductors and digital trade
-
Sports5 days agoPaul Scholes issues Marcus Rashford reality check as agreement emerges over Man United star
-
Entertainment5 days agoMet Gala 2026 Rumored Guest List Is Turning Heads
-
Business6 days agoStrait of Hormuz Blockade Persists Amid US-Iran Standoff, Sending Oil Prices Soaring
-
Entertainment7 days agoCelebrities Who Are Attending the 2026 Met Gala Event
-
Entertainment5 days ago
New on Prime Video in May 2026 — Full List of Movies and Shows
-
Sports5 days agoCavaliers vs. Raptors Game 6 live score, updates, highlights from 2026 NBA playoffs first-round series
-
Sports5 days agoDavid Benavidez responds to team Canelo saying the fight will never happen
-
Entertainment5 days agoKylie Jenner Hit With Second Lawsuit From Ex-Housekeeper
-
Sports5 days agoIPL 2026: ‘Love you darling’- Hardik Pandya’s reaction to MS Dhoni steals the show |Watch | Cricket News
-
Entertainment5 days agoYoung and the Restless Next Week: Cane Arrested & Matt’s Deadly New Scheme!
-
Sports7 days agoSaudi Arabia set to withdraw LIV Golf funding after 2026 season, per reports
-
Tech7 days agoMark Zuckerberg Says Meta Is Working On AI Agents For Personal And Business Use
-
Tech6 days agoMeta ends Sama contract after Kenyan workers report seeing intimate footage from Ray-Ban smart glasses users
-
Sports7 days agoStalemate in Madrid as resilient Arsenal Blunt Atletico Madrid in semi-final clash – Sports
-
Sports5 days agoPlane crash in Wimberley, Texas kills 5 pickleball players at tournament
-
Entertainment4 days ago
New Netflix Movies in May 2026 — My Top 3 Picks to Stream
-
Sports7 days agoManchester United 2025/26 squad review – keep, sell, loan, release
You must be logged in to post a comment Login