Following the Golden State Warriors' Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Inside the NBA crew engaged in a spirited debate over whether the Warriors could have overcome the Timberwolves if Stephen Curry had not been sidelined by injury. The discussion was sparked by Curry’s strained left hamstring, which he suffered early in the series and which proved to be a critical turning point. The injury forced Curry to miss the last four games, all of which the Warriors lost, ultimately ending their 2024-25 playoff run with a 121-110 defeat in Game 5. This injury dramatically altered the trajectory of the series, as Curry’s presence on the court is pivotal to the Warriors’ offensive spacing and scoring efficiency. Charles Barkley, known for his candid and blunt opinions, gave a decisive answer without hesitation during the discussion: he believed the Warriors would not have beaten the Timberwolves even if Curry had been healthy. Barkley’s perspective reflects the formidable challenge posed by Minnesota and the Warriors' inconsistent form throughout the season. Despite the team’s strong start and mid-season turnaround, injuries and performance slumps led to a roller-coaster season that ultimately fell short in the playoffs. The Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr and players acknowledged the harsh reality post-game, knowing Curry’s injury was a significant blow that they could not surmount. While Curry was making progress in his recovery and had even been cleared for light shooting drills, the injury’s impact was undeniable. The series highlighted how crucial Curry is to the Warriors' success and how his absence created insurmountable difficulties against a hungry Timberwolves squad[1][2][3].

5/15/2025, 11:40:00 AM

The NFL’s schedule makers saw a significant opportunity to elevate their prime broadcast windows into the ratings stratosphere for the 2025 season by carefully crafting the schedule around marquee matchups and strategically placing games in the most-watched time slots. The league released a schedule featuring 21 Sunday Night Football games across the 18-week campaign, with NBC and Peacock hosting these prime-time events, including special broadcasts like the season opener with the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles against the Dallas Cowboys. These matchups aim to capture viewers' attention early and maintain high interest throughout the season. CBS, as the primary home of AFC games, secured over 100 regular-season games and boasts the most Sunday NFL games on television. They focused on the highly coveted 4:25 PM ET national game window, known as the most-watched window in all of television, with approximately 25 million viewers. CBS's schedule is highlighted by standout games such as Chiefs-Bills and Lions-Packers, aiming to maximize viewership in this peak period. FOX Sports also enhanced its broadcast portfolio by securing two new exclusive NFL broadcast windows, featuring a strong NFC roster combined with an increased presence of key AFC teams. This approach ensures that fans of both conferences have compelling games throughout the season, boosting overall ratings. By aligning top teams, star quarterbacks, and rivalry games in the most attractive time slots, the NFL’s schedule makers strategically pushed their big broadcast windows to dominate ratings, capitalizing on fan interest and maximizing TV audience engagement over the course of the 2025 season. <br /> <br />

5/15/2025, 11:00:00 AM

On Forbes' 2025 list of the world's highest-earning athletes, ten athletes each surpassed $101 million in total earnings, highlighting a remarkable year for sports superstars across various disciplines. Leading the pack is Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese soccer icon, who topped the list with earnings of $260 million, blending his on-field salary and lucrative endorsement deals that keep him at the pinnacle of global sports income. Joining Ronaldo among the elite are three NBA stars who have not only excelled in basketball but have significantly expanded their financial portfolios through endorsements and business ventures. Stephen Curry stands out by dominating the NBA with notable achievements like making 357 three-pointers and winning an Olympic gold medal. He also secured a lifetime deal with Under Armour and invested in a new professional women’s 3-on-3 basketball league, reflecting his growing influence beyond the court. LeBron James, another NBA legend, continues to maintain his high earnings with $128.2 million, combining his salary from the Los Angeles Lakers and numerous endorsements. These stars represent the growing trend of athletes leveraging their brands into substantial off-court revenues. From the NFL, quarterback Lamar Jackson ranks among the top ten, crossing the $100 million mark thanks to a record-breaking contract with the Baltimore Ravens and strategic commercial partnerships, including deals with Oakley and his own fashion brand. This list also features other prominent athletes like golfer Jon Rahm and soccer legend Lionel Messi, underscoring the diverse range of sports generating massive earnings. The convergence of athletic achievement, endorsements, and business savvy defines this new era of athlete wealth, with the top earners blending elite performance and powerful personal brands to break financial records.<br /> <br />

5/15/2025, 10:32:00 AM

For years, the Dallas Cowboys have been a staple of FOX's "America's Game of the Week," frequently appearing in the 4:25 p.m. ET slot. However, in the 2025 NFL schedule, the network sought to introduce more variety into their lineup. This shift is evident as the Cowboys will still be featured prominently, but not as exclusively as in previous seasons. They are set to appear in at least eight nationally televised games, including six primetime matches, but not all of these will be in the traditional Sunday afternoon slot. The Cowboys' schedule includes challenging matchups against teams that made the playoffs in 2024, such as the Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, Detroit Lions, and Green Bay Packers. Their season opener is against the defending Super Bowl champion Eagles, and they will also face the Chiefs on Thanksgiving Day. This variety of opponents and game times reflects the network's desire to offer a broader range of games to viewers, while still recognizing the Cowboys' popularity and appeal. The inclusion of more teams and varying game times should enhance the viewing experience for fans by providing a mix of high-profile matchups and strategic scheduling. This approach aims to keep the NFL exciting throughout the season, rather than relying solely on familiar fixtures like the Cowboys in the 4:25 p.m. slot. As the NFL continues to evolve, such changes help maintain the league's broad appeal to fans. <br /> <br /> By featuring a diverse range of games and teams, FOX aims to capture the attention of a wider audience, capitalizing on the growing interest in the NFL. The Cowboys' continued presence in primetime games ensures that their large fan base remains engaged, while the variety in scheduling caters to a broader demographic. This strategic approach to game scheduling reflects the NFL's ongoing efforts to adapt and thrive in a competitive sports landscape.

5/15/2025, 10:05:00 AM

The NFL has structured its schedule release for the 2025 season in a way that builds anticipation and excitement among fans. On Tuesday, the league unveiled the slate of international games, giving fans a glimpse into some of the unique matchups that will take place outside of the United States. This international game slate is part of the broader schedule that includes a variety of compelling matchups, both domestic and abroad. On Wednesday, the NFL will reveal the remainder of the 272 regular season games, providing fans with a complete picture of the upcoming season. The official release is set for 8 p.m. ET, and it will be broadcast live on NFL Network and streamed on NFL+, requiring a subscription for access. The full schedule release is highly anticipated, as it will confirm start dates, times, and opponents for all NFL teams. This includes the season opener, which will feature the Philadelphia Eagles hosting the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, September 4th, at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC. The comprehensive schedule will allow fans to plan their viewing and attendance for the entire season, from September to December, and will include a mix of divisional rivalries, interconference matchups, and other exciting games. The schedule release is a significant event for football fans, marking the beginning of the countdown to the new season. With the full schedule in hand, fans can start looking forward to their favorite teams' matchups and plan accordingly. This release is part of the broader build-up to the new season, which includes various media events and promotions designed to generate excitement among fans. <br /> <br /> Overall, the NFL's schedule release is a strategic move to build anticipation and engagement among fans. By gradually revealing different parts of the schedule, the league creates a sense of intrigue and excitement that culminates in the full release. This approach allows fans to slowly absorb the information and start making plans for the upcoming season. As the season opener approaches, the anticipation will continue to build, setting the stage for a thrilling NFL season.

5/14/2025, 12:41:07 PM

Shannon Sharpe, the 56-year-old sports analyst and commentator, has temporarily stepped away from his role on ESPN's "First Take" following serious allegations against him. The accusations involve a former girlfriend, whom Sharpe met when she was just 19 years old, accusing him of rape. This development has led to Sharpe taking a leave of absence from the popular sports debate show to address the situation privately and allow for any necessary investigations to take place. Sharpe has been a prominent figure on ESPN, known for his insightful and often passionate commentary on various sports topics. His departure from "First Take" marks a significant moment given his stature within the sports media community. The network and Sharpe have not released detailed public statements about the allegations or their next steps, but the temporary nature of the absence suggests ongoing deliberations and a potential investigation. The accusation comes at a time when public scrutiny of personal conduct among celebrity figures, including sports personalities and media figures, is particularly heightened. ESPN has previously acted swiftly in similar situations to ensure accountability and maintain its standards of conduct on-air and off. This incident has sparked discussions about the responsibilities of public figures and the impact such allegations have on their careers and reputations. Until more information becomes available, Sharpe’s future participation in ESPN programming remains uncertain. The case underscores the broader societal focus on addressing allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and ensuring appropriate responses from both individuals and their affiliated organizations. <br /> <br /> In the meantime, ESPN continues its programming without Sharpe, with other analysts filling in to maintain the show's dynamic. The sports community and viewers alike await further updates and hope for a transparent resolution to the matter.

5/14/2025, 12:20:00 PM

Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers saw their remarkable 2024-25 season come to an abrupt end Tuesday night, as they fell to the Indiana Pacers 114-105 at home in Game 5, losing the series 4-1. Despite building a commanding 19-point lead early in the second quarter, the Cavaliers were unable to hold on as the Pacers rallied back, overtaking them by the third quarter and maintaining control until the final buzzer. Mitchell had a strong individual performance with 35 points, nine rebounds, four steals, and one block, though his shooting was inefficient as he made only 8 of 25 field goals and 4 of 13 from three-point range. Evan Mobley was the only other Cavalier to significantly support the offense, contributing 24 points. Unfortunately, other key shooters like Max Strus and Darius Garland struggled, both going 0-for-6 from beyond the arc. The team as a whole shot a poor 25.7% from three-point range, which was a critical factor in their inability to secure the win. The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s 31 points, showed depth and consistency as all five starters scored in double digits. This loss puts a premature end to what was a historic season for the Cavaliers, who clinched the No. 1 seed for the first time since 2015-16 and had previously dominated the Miami Heat in the playoffs with a record margin of 122 points. After the game, Mitchell delivered a candid statement acknowledging the disappointment: "We let the city down, we let each other down but we'll be back." The season, while promising on paper, falls short of expectations as the team failed to advance past the second round, marking a tough reality for the young Cavaliers squad aiming for greater postseason success.

5/14/2025, 12:15:00 PM

The rankings for Top Workplaces, compiled by Energage in partnership with The Denver Post, have named Elevations Credit Union as the No. 1 workplace. Founded in 1952, Elevations Credit Union is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, and has been recognized repeatedly for its outstanding workplace culture and employee satisfaction. Elevations Credit Union has been ranked among the Denver Post’s Top Workplaces for several years, including 2023 and 2024, highlighting its consistent commitment to creating a positive work environment. The credit union employs nearly 600 people and serves over 170,000 members, managing assets exceeding $3 billion. This institution has grown significantly since its inception as a university credit union with just 12 members and minimal assets. Employee feedback is the foundation of these rankings, with Energage administering confidential surveys measuring 15 critical culture drivers such as leadership, innovation, compensation and benefits, professional development, employee well-being, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) practices. Elevations has excelled in these categories, reflecting a workplace culture that values its employees through appreciation, work-life flexibility, and purposeful values. The credit union’s leadership, including President and CEO Gerry Agnes, emphasizes creating the best workplace experience possible, which has earned Elevations national recognition beyond Colorado. It has been named a Top Workplace USA and received multiple awards related to DE&I efforts. Furthermore, Elevations is the top credit union mortgage lender by purchase volume in Colorado, exemplifying success both internally with its workforce and externally in its service to members. This sustained recognition underscores Elevations Credit Union’s dedication to nurturing a thriving, supportive, and inclusive workplace.

5/14/2025, 12:00:00 PM

The Philadelphia Eagles secured their second Super Bowl victory in the 2024-2025 NFL season, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs with a commanding 40-22 score. This triumph marked the Eagles' second Super Bowl win, following their maiden victory in Super Bowl LII. The team's dominant performance was underscored by a formidable defense and agile offense, which outmaneuvered the Chiefs throughout the game. The Eagles' success was largely attributed to their well-coordinated defense, which pressured quarterback Patrick Mahomes relentlessly. Mahomes was sacked six times without the Eagles employing a single blitz, showcasing the team's tactical prowess. On the offensive side, quarterback Jalen Hurts played a crucial role, leading the team with his versatility and accuracy. The Eagles' victory also highlighted their ability to maintain a strong ground game, thanks to players like Saquon Barkley. Given their recent success, the Eagles might face challenges in the upcoming season, often referred to as a "Super Bowl hangover." This phenomenon occurs when a team experiences a significant decline in performance after winning a major championship. However, with their strong defense and offense, the Eagles may be poised to avoid this slump and enjoy another successful season in 2025. <br /> <br /> The key to their continued success will depend on maintaining their defensive intensity and adapting their strategy to counter opponents who are now more prepared to face them. Additionally, the Eagles will need to retain their core players and build upon the momentum established in the previous season. If they can maintain their performance level, they have a good chance of enjoying another successful season this year.

5/12/2025, 12:38:53 PM

Jason Logan's favorite NBA player props for Monday, May 12, feature several notable players. The selection includes Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and Naz Reid. Each of these players offers unique betting opportunities based on their performance trends and team dynamics. Karl-Anthony Towns, known for his versatility as a big man, can be a strong bet for over his rebounding or scoring props. He has shown consistent ability to dominate games on both ends of the court, making him a reliable choice for prop bets. Mikal Bridges, on the other hand, is a defensive specialist but also has the potential to score. His three-point shooting and ability to create shots for himself and others make him an attractive option for prop bets related to his scoring or three-point shooting. Naz Reid offers a mix of interior scoring and rebounding. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game makes him a good candidate for props focused on his overall performance. Overall, these player props offer a range of betting opportunities based on the players' strengths and the matchups they face. Analyzing recent trends and team matchups can help maximize the potential for successful bets. <br /> <br /> While specific prop bets are not detailed in this information, typical player props might include over/under on points, rebounds, assists, or three-pointers. These bets allow bettors to engage with the game on a more granular level, focusing on individual player performance rather than team outcomes. As such, they provide a more nuanced way to enjoy and invest in NBA games.

5/12/2025, 12:21:00 PM

The CW Network, once a cornerstone of television programming cherished by Gen X and Millennials, is undergoing significant transformation but remains committed to retaining its original name. While the network’s content and programming have evolved over the years, the brand identity as "The CW" continues to be upheld. Originally known for its youth-oriented dramas and shows that captured the interests of Generation X and Millennial viewers, The CW is now expanding its programming slate to appeal to a broader, more diverse audience. For the 2024-2025 television season, The CW is introducing a variety of new series and bringing back returning favorites across multiple genres. Highlights include the new drama "Sherlock & Daughter," starring David Thewlis as the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes, premiering in April 2025. Other notable programming features the inspirational special "Remarkable Women," celebrating women’s social and entrepreneurial achievements, and popular returning shows like "Sullivan’s Crossing" and "Children Ruin Everything," which continues into its final season. Additionally, The CW is focusing on midseason premieres that blend drama, comedy, and unscripted formats. This includes the comedic drama "Good Cop/Bad Cop," starring Leighton Meester, and returning hits like "All American," which is entering its seventh season and remains one of the network's highest-rated series. Procedural dramas such as "Wild Cards" are also part of the lineup, emphasizing a blend of new storytelling and continuing successful franchises. Despite changes in its programming strategy and audience focus, The CW’s retention of its name signals a respect for its legacy and brand recognition, even as it adapts to the shifting media landscape and viewer preferences.<br /><br />The network’s approach combines fresh, diverse content with familiar titles to maintain relevance while honoring the original essence that made The CW a distinctive player in television for the generations that grew up with it. This balance reflects The CW’s ongoing evolution in an increasingly competitive entertainment market, striving to engage both longtime fans and new viewers alike.

5/12/2025, 12:00:00 PM

NBC has unveiled its fall 2025 schedule, which features a strong lineup of sports content, including NBA games and football, alongside returning scripted series and new comedies. The schedule highlights the network's commitment to sports programming, with NBA games and football being significant components. Additionally, Jimmy Fallon's presence is notable, with his show "On Brand with Jimmy Fallon" airing on both Tuesdays and Fridays. The One Chicago franchise, consisting of "Chicago Med," "Chicago Fire," and "Chicago P.D.," returns, as do "Law & Order" and "Law & Order: SVU." The Voice is also set to return, with Snoop Dogg rejoining the coaches' panel for Season 28. Other notable elements of the schedule include "The Hunting Party," a new drama set to air on Thursdays, and the continuation of "Dateline NBC" on Fridays. The fall lineup sets the stage for a mix of sports, entertainment, and scripted content, catering to a diverse audience. <br /> <br /> The inclusion of sports and established shows like "Chicago Fire" and "Law & Order" reflects NBC's strategy to balance familiar content with new additions. The network's focus on comedy is marked by the early renewals of "Happy's Place" and "St. Denis Medical," two new comedies that were picked up for a second season ahead of their first season's completion. This blend of sports, drama, and comedy positions NBC for a competitive fall season.

5/12/2025, 12:00:00 PM

Liverpool are set to host Arsenal at Anfield on May 11, 2025, in a crucial Premier League encounter. This match holds significant importance as Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, aim to capitalize on Manchester City's recent draw with Southampton to close the gap at the top of the table. Currently, Liverpool are leading the league with 79 points, while Arsenal trail behind with 67 points, positioning this game as a key opportunity for Arsenal to boost their title challenge. Liverpool come into the match with impressive form, boasting a record of 24 wins, 7 draws, and 2 losses. Their squad features standout performers such as Mohamed Salah, who has scored 27 goals and contributed 18 assists, and Luis Díaz, with 11 goals and 5 assists. The Reds have a history of competitive matches against Arsenal, including a 2-2 draw in their last Premier League meeting in October 2024 and a 2-1 victory in a recent friendly. Arsenal, meanwhile, have been consistent but face a tough challenge at Anfield. Key players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka have been instrumental in their campaign, with Havertz scoring 9 goals and Saka providing 10 assists this season. Arteta’s side will be motivated not only by the chance to gain points but also by the opportunity to make a statement by defeating a top rival on their home ground. The match promises to be intense as both teams vie for crucial points in the closing stages of the season, with Arsenal eager to exploit any slip-ups by Manchester City while Liverpool strive to maintain their position at the summit of English football. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter at Anfield, a stadium known for its passionate atmosphere and historic significance. <br /> <br /> This fixture is one of the highlights of the Premier League calendar, attracting global attention with the potential to influence the title race dramatically. The tactical battle between Jürgen Klopp and Mikel Arteta will be fascinating to watch, with both managers having crafted formidable teams that combine attacking flair with defensive resilience. With so much at stake, the Liverpool vs Arsenal match on May 11 promises to be a defining moment in the 2024-25 season.

5/11/2025, 11:59:00 AM

Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, recently emphasized that the stock market traditionally rewards patience, stating that "time is always on your side" when investing in stocks. He reiterated his well-known stance that stocks generally increase in value over the long term, asserting that there has never been a point where holding stocks over time failed to yield gains. This perspective reflects his belief that the market inherently trends upward given sufficient time. However, Portnoy introduced a critical caveat relating to "time pressure." He acknowledged that if an investor needs to access their money quickly or cannot wait through market fluctuations, this alters the equation significantly. In such cases, the long-term advantage of the stock market’s upward trajectory may not be realized, introducing risk and potential losses for those under time constraints. Portnoy’s comments are grounded in his personal experience as an active trader who rose to prominence during the 2020 lockdown by livestreaming his trading sessions. Although he enjoys day trading, his core advice remains that patient investors who can withstand market volatility without needing immediate returns are more likely to succeed. His message suggests that while the stock market is a reliable wealth-building tool over extended periods, investors must be mindful of their individual timelines and liquidity needs. Essentially, while “stocks always go up in the long term,” the ability to wait without time pressure is crucial, as short-term demands can force premature selling and potential losses. In summary, Dave Portnoy highlights that the stock market’s long-term growth is dependable but urges caution for investors facing urgent financial needs, emphasizing that time horizon remains a key factor influencing investment outcomes.

5/11/2025, 11:00:00 AM

Throughout the offseason, college basketball insider Jon Rothstein diligently updates his "ROTHSTEIN 45," a dynamic ranking of the top 45 college basketball programs based on their roster compositions for the upcoming season. This ranking serves as a comprehensive barometer of team strength, factoring in transfers, departures, and incoming talent as programs prepare for the new campaign. In the most recent updates, Duke holds a strong position at 8th, maintaining its status as a top contender despite losing key players like Cooper Flagg, a projected top NBA draft pick. The Blue Devils have bolstered their roster through transfers such as Cedric Coward and Ifeanyi Ufochukwu, aiming to remain competitive at the highest level. Meanwhile, the reigning national champion Florida Gators experienced a notable drop, now ranked 17th, after the offseason departure of several key scorers including Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin, and Will Richard, all of whom exhausted their college eligibility. Additionally, Florida’s sophomore forward Alex Condon entered the NBA draft, and junior Denzel Aberdeen transferred to Kentucky, further impacting their depth and scoring capability. Other teams receiving recognition in Rothstein’s rankings include NC State, which debuts at 45th with a projected starting five featuring transfers like Tre Holloman and Terrance Arceneaux, signaling a rebuilding phase. The ACC is well represented overall, with Louisville, North Carolina, Miami, and Notre Dame also making the list. Rothstein’s ongoing updates highlight the evolving landscape of college basketball rosters, illustrating how player movement during the offseason can reshape program outlooks. These rankings also set the stage for highly anticipated matchups early in the 2025-26 season, as top teams look to assert their dominance and build momentum.

5/11/2025, 11:00:00 AM