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Lakers Trust Jaxson Hayes to Step Up Against Knicks as Deandre Ayton Sideline The Los Angeles Lakers are placing their faith in Jaxson Hayes to carry the load against the New York Knicks, with starting center Deandre Ayton sidelined due to left knee soreness. Hayes, the team’s backup center, has emerged as a key contributor this season and is expected to see increased playing time if Ayton remains unavailable for Sunday’s matchup. Hayes’ rise to prominence has been steady, particularly after the Lakers traded Anthony Davis to the Mavericks in 2025 for Luka Dončić. Last year, Hayes was the team’s primary big man, and his performance has continued to improve this season. Coach JJ Redick praised Hayes’ growth, noting his ability to make touch shots around the rim, execute pocket decisions, and inject energy into the team with his physical play. “He’s a better basketball player now,” Redick said. “He’s making great decisions and consistently contributes to the game.” Ayton, the 2018 No. 1 draft pick, has been the team’s starting center for all 54 games this season but has been limited to just 4.5 minutes in Thursday’s loss to the Nuggets and sat out Friday’s game against the Pacers. His status for Sunday’s contest remains uncertain, but the Lakers are preparing for the possibility of Hayes stepping into a larger role. Hayes has already shown his ability to handle increased responsibilities. In eight games as a starter, he averaged 11.4 points (81.6% shooting), 4.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, with the Lakers posting a 6-2 record in those contests. His performance against the Nuggets, where he scored 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting, and the Pacers, with nine points and four rebounds, highlights his readiness for bigger challenges.#los_angeles_lakers #jaxson_hayes #deandre_ayton #new_york_knicks #jj_redick

Lakers' Ayton exits with knee injury; LeBron says elbow sore Derrick Ayton left the game with a knee injury during the Los Angeles Lakers' matchup against the Indiana Pacers, while LeBron James reported a sore elbow and is uncertain to return for Friday's contest. The developments come as the Lakers face challenges in maintaining their competitive edge amid a series of setbacks. Ayton, who had been a key contributor for the team, exited the game in the second quarter after sustaining a knee injury. The exact nature of the injury remains under evaluation, but initial reports suggest it may require further medical attention. His absence could impact the Lakers' offensive strategy, particularly in the paint, where Ayton has provided a consistent scoring presence. LeBron James, meanwhile, has been dealing with an elbow soreness that has limited his availability for recent games. The four-time NBA champion expressed concerns about the injury's potential to affect his performance, though he remains optimistic about his ability to play. "I'm feeling better each day, but I need to be cautious," James stated after the game. "My elbow is sore, but I'm not ready to rule myself out for Friday." The Lakers' struggles to secure a win against the Pacers highlight the team's ongoing challenges. Despite Ayton's injury and James' uncertainty, the Lakers have shown resilience in other areas, with key players stepping up to fill the void. However, the absence of two critical contributors could test their depth and adaptability. The game against the Pacers also underscored the Lakers' need for a balanced approach. While Ayton's injury and James' condition are significant concerns, the team's ability to adjust its tactics and maintain composure will be crucial in determining the outcome.#lebron_james #nba #derrick_ayton #los_angeles_lakers #indiana_pacers

Angel Reese Makes Bold Fashion Statement Ahead of USA Debut Angel Reese made a striking fashion choice as she prepared for her debut with the USA Basketball senior national team. The Chicago Sky forward opted for a bold top featuring a plunging neckline and rock-patterned tights, accessorizing with silver necklaces, bangles, gold earrings, a gray bag, and a ring on her left middle finger. Her makeup was kept minimal, and she styled her black dreads into a long ponytail that reached her hip. The look was highlighted in a mirror selfie shared on Instagram, which quickly generated attention from fans. Reese’s fashion moment coincided with the announcement of her participation in the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup qualifying tournament. The event will take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from March 11 to March 17, 2026. She will join fellow stars Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers in representing the United States on the international stage. The tournament marks a significant milestone in Reese’s career, as it represents her first appearance with the senior national team. Her Instagram post, which showcased the bold top, sparked considerable buzz among followers. The image not only highlighted her personal style but also underscored her growing presence in the basketball world. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how she will perform in the high-stakes environment of international competition. Reese’s debut is expected to be a key moment for the USA team as they aim to secure a strong position in the global rankings. The combination of her fashion-forward appearance and the significance of her debut has positioned Reese as a standout figure in both the sports and fashion spheres.#angel_reese #usa_basketball #chicago_sky #fiba_womens_world_cup #san_juan_puerto_rico

Angel Reese embraces role within USA Basketball’s ‘Young and Turnt Crew’ MIAMI — Angel Reese, a rising star for the Chicago Sky, is stepping into a new chapter as part of USA Basketball’s emerging core, dubbed the ‘Young and Turnt Crew.’ The group, which includes Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Kiki Iriafen, is set to make its debut in senior national team competition at the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournament in Puerto Rico. The event, which begins this week, marks the first time TNT will broadcast USA Basketball’s qualifying games, signaling a shift in how the team’s international efforts are viewed. Reese, who grew up watching USA Basketball games with her grandmother, now finds herself in the spotlight as part of a new era for the team. Longtime veterans like Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird have retired, leaving room for younger players to take center stage. At a recent training camp in Miami, Bueckers coined the nickname ‘Young and Turnt Crew’ to describe the group’s fiery, competitive spirit. “Every time we step on the court, you see passion, you see fire, you see a competitive spirit about us,” Bueckers said. “We don’t shy away from that; we embrace that.” The term, which Bueckers described as a way to “talk crap,” resonates with the team’s approach. Bird, the managing director of USA women’s basketball, praised the group’s vocal intensity. “That’s the type of vocal I like,” Bird said, reflecting on her own career. Bird, a five-time Olympic gold medalist, has remained involved with USA Basketball in retirement, overseeing the selection of the 12-player team for the qualifying tournament. She highlighted the group’s potential, noting their ability to balance individual flair with team cohesion.#angel_reese #usa_basketball #young_and_turnt_crew #fiba_world_cup_qualifying #paige_bueckers

NHL Tonight: Foligno Brothers Join Forces Brothers Nick and Marcus Foligno, both members of the Minnesota Wild, have joined the NHL Tonight segment to discuss their unique opportunity as teammates. The duo shared insights about their experiences playing together, the dynamics of their partnership, and their perspectives on the team’s current season. Their conversation highlighted the challenges and rewards of competing at the highest level while maintaining a strong familial bond. The segment, which aired on Trade Deadline Day, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the brothers’ roles within the Wild. Nick, a forward known for his playmaking ability, and Marcus, a defenseman with a strong physical presence, emphasized the importance of trust and communication in their on-ice interactions. They also touched on the pressures of the trade deadline, balancing personal goals with team strategies. The NHL Tonight segment also included highlights from recent games, such as a power-play goal by Patrik Sturm against the Colorado Avalanche and a shorthanded goal by Kirill Kaprizov. These moments underscored the Wild’s offensive capabilities and resilience during the season. Additionally, the broadcast featured postgame interviews with players and coaches, offering a comprehensive view of the team’s progress and challenges. The brothers’ participation in NHL Tonight reflected their growing influence within the league and their commitment to representing the Wild. Their candid discussions added a personal dimension to the broadcast, appealing to fans who appreciate the human side of professional hockey. The segment ultimately reinforced the significance of teamwork and dedication in the NHL, as the Wild continue to navigate the competitive landscape of the league.#minnesota_wild #nick_foligno #marcus_foligno #nhl_tonight #patrik_sturm

Blackhawks Send Nick Foligno to Play With Brother on Wild The Minnesota Wild have acquired Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno in a trade that allows him to reunite with his brother, Marcus, on the team. The deal, which involves future considerations, is seen as a gesture from the Blackhawks to support Foligno’s pursuit of a Stanley Cup. The Blackhawks have already used their three retention spots, so the trade includes no retention clause. Foligno, 38, is entering the final year of his two-year contract with the Blackhawks, which pays him $4.5 million annually. The move places the Wild near the salary cap, as they have already acquired forward Bobby Brink and defenseman Michael McCarron earlier in the week. According to PuckPedia, Minnesota has $5.25 million in available cap space after taking on Foligno’s full salary. The Wild also sent center Vinnie Hinostroza to the Florida Panthers in exchange for future considerations. Foligno had previously hinted at a potential trade during a media session with the Blackhawks. “It’s tough,” he said, reflecting on his situation. “I’ve made it clear how much I care about this group. You feel weird when you have those hard conversations, but it’s the reality of where we’re sitting. There’s always a personal thing you go through too. You still want to compete, battle and win. So that’s the fight that you have.” Foligno emphasized his commitment to the Blackhawks, stating, “I believe in this group so much. It’s been an absolute honor to be the captain here. I’m still fully committed to that until I’m told otherwise. But there’s a competitor inside of you too, that wants to play meaningful games.” Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill confirmed the trade, expressing support for Foligno’s decision. “Obviously, one, I’m happy for him,” Blashill said.#minnesota_wild #nick_foligno #chicago_blackhawks #michael_mccarron #bobby_brink

Gibson vs. Ann Li Prediction, Odds to Win BNP Paribas Open Talia Gibson, ranked 112th, will face Ann Li, the 41st-ranked player, in the Round of 128 of the BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday, March 4. The match is set to take place on a hard court, and the betting odds indicate Li is the favorite to win, with -180 odds compared to Gibson’s +140. According to the implied probability from the moneyline, Gibson has a 64.3% chance to advance. Li’s tournament odds also highlight her potential, as she is listed at +2800 to win the entire event, while Gibson’s tournament odds are +5000. In their head-to-head matchup, Li’s -180 line suggests she is heavily favored, though Gibson’s underdog status could create an underdog narrative. The match is part of the BNP Paribas Open, a major tennis tournament in the United States, and will be broadcast on Tennis Channel and other sports platforms. Looking at Li’s recent performance, she suffered a defeat in the Round of 16 at the Merida Open Akron on February 26, losing to No. 81-ranked Zeynep Sonmez in three sets. On hard courts, Li has a solid record, winning 41.9% of break points (135 out of 322), which ranks her 23rd in this category. Her overall hard-court performance is strong, with a 70.4% win rate on service games (295 wins in 419 games) and a 33.8% return game win rate (139 wins in 411 games). Over the past 12 months, Li has compiled a 20-17 record on hard courts, including one tournament title. Gibson’s recent tournament history includes a loss in the Australian Open’s Round of 64 to No. 22-ranked Diana Shnaider, who defeated her 6-3, 5-7, 3-6. On hard courts, Gibson has converted 40% of her break points (48 out of 120), placing her 124th in this category. Her service game performance is solid, with a 68.5% win rate (68.#bnpparibas_open #talia_gibson #ann_li #tennis_channel #merida_open_akron

Talia Gibson Enters Top 100 as Youngest Australian in WTA Rankings At 21 years old, Talia Gibson has become Australia’s youngest player to enter the WTA top 100 rankings, marking a significant milestone in her professional tennis career. The West Australian achieved the feat just six weeks after stating her goal of securing a spot within the elite bracket during a press conference at the 2026 Australian Open. Her breakthrough came during a standout performance at the Indian Wells tournament, where she advanced to the third round without dropping a set. The run included victories over two top 50 players, solidifying her position in the rankings. Gibson’s rise to the top 100 follows a steady progression over the past year, with her ranking fluctuating near the threshold for over a year. She reached a career-high of No. 105 in August 2025 before securing her place in the top 100. Reflecting on the achievement, Gibson expressed disbelief and pride, noting how far she has come since starting her professional journey. She emphasized the importance of reaching this goal, calling it a “crazy” milestone that she is now proud to have achieved. Despite her rapid ascent, Gibson’s path to the top 100 has been marked by perseverance. Her first professional match came over seven years ago at ITF 15K events in Perth, and she has since earned her first pro title in 2022. In the past 18 months alone, she has claimed all seven of her singles finals at W35, W50, and W75 level events. However, her journey has not been without setbacks. At the 2026 Australian Open, she fell to 23rd seed Diana Shnaider in the second round, ending a streak of nine consecutive losses against top 50 players. Gibson described the defeat as a turning point, helping her realize her game is capable of competing with the world’s best.#indian_wells_tournament #talia_gibson #wta_rankings #jarrad_bunt #australian_open_2026

Twenty-eight aces not enough for Tauson in defeat against unsung young Australian Clara Tauson suffered a third-round exit at the WTA 1000 tournament in Indian Wells after a three-set loss to 21-year-old Australian qualifier Talia Gibson. The match, which lasted over two hours and 40 minutes, saw Tauson fall 6-7, 6-4, 4-6 despite recording a career-high 28 service aces. Gibson, ranked 112th in the world, advanced to the round of 16, where she will face either compatriot Ajla Tomljanovic or Italian Jasmine Paolini. Tauson, the 17th-ranked Dane, had been warned about Gibson’s potential after the young Australian stunned second-round opponent Ekaterina Alexandrova with a straight-sets victory. Despite her strong performance, Gibson proved resilient in critical moments, particularly in the final set, to secure the win. Tauson’s 28 aces marked a new personal best, surpassing her previous record of 26 aces set in a 2023 match against Sofia Kenin. The WTA Tour’s all-time ace record remains at 31, held by Czech player Kristyna Pliskova since 2016. The match unfolded under challenging conditions in the Coachella Valley, with temperatures rising during the afternoon session. Gibson’s ability to withstand Tauson’s aggressive serving and capitalize on break points highlighted her composure. While Tauson’s statistics suggested a strong chance of victory, Gibson’s tactical adjustments and mental toughness proved decisive. This loss marks the first time Tauson has been defeated in three sets at the Indian Wells tournament. The result underscores the unpredictable nature of the competition, where lower-ranked players can disrupt top-tier contenders.#indian_wells #clara_tauson #talia_gibson #wta_1000 #coachella_valley

UAB Men’s Basketball Preview: East Carolina The University of Alabama at Birmingham men’s basketball team will face East Carolina in a crucial American Conference matchup on Sunday, March 8, at Bartow Arena. The game, scheduled for 2:00 p.m. CT, will be broadcast on ESPN+ with Curt Bloom and Mo Finley calling the action, while WJQX 100.5 FM will carry the radio broadcast. UAB, ranked 4th in the conference standings with a 10-7 record, aims to secure a top-four seed for the American Conference tournament, while East Carolina, tied for 11th with a 6-11 record, needs a win and a Memphis loss to earn a tournament berth. UAB enters the game with momentum after sweeping its American Conference road games, including an 80-74 victory over Charlotte. The Blazers have clinched a tournament berth and could be seeded as high as 4th or 5th, depending on results. The team leads the all-time series against East Carolina, 15-7, with a recent 87-85 overtime win in their first meeting of the season. The two teams are separated by 633 miles, adding a geographical challenge for the Pirates. UAB’s success is fueled by its balanced offensive and defensive performance. The team ranks first in the conference in assists-to-turnover ratio and fastbreak points per game, with Chance Westry leading the conference in assists (152) and averaging 5.1 per game. Evan Chatman, a top performer in the American Conference, is 22nd nationally in defensive rebounds (6.43 per game) and leads the league in that category. UAB also excels in rebounding, ranking 17th in total rebounds (40.43 per game) and 4th in the conference for offensive rebounds (13.20 per game). The Blazers’ ability to control the game is evident in their 9.0 turnovers per game, a national ranking of 7th and 2nd in the conference.#uab_men_basketball #east_carolina #bartow_arena #american_conference #curt_bloom