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Longhorns Stay Perfect with Another Thriller For the second time in less than a week, Texas volleyball found itself pushed to the limit by a top-five opponent. And for the second time, the Longhorns emerged victorious. Playing at the Shriners Children’s Showdown at the Net in Fort Worth, No. 2 Texas rallied to defeat No. 4 Louisville 3–2 (23–25, 25–16, 21–25, 25–22, 16–14). The win improved the Longhorns to 5–0 and gave them their fourth ranked victory in their first five matches of the season. The performance underscored both Texas’ resilience and its ability to rise in critical moments. Despite committing 35 errors and hitting just .153 as a team, the Longhorns found ways to seize momentum in the late stretches of sets. Stafford and Freshmen Shine Torrey Stafford, the Pitt transfer who has quickly become the centerpiece of the Texas attack, once again led the way. She finished with 20 kills, 18 digs, and three aces, marking her fourth double-double of the young season. In the process, she also surpassed 500 career digs, a milestone that highlights her all-around value to the team. Freshman outside hitters Cari Spears and Abby Vander Wal also made their presence felt in the marquee clash. Spears tallied 16 kills while Vander Wal chipped in 14, both career highs. The trio of Stafford, Spears, and Vander Wal combined for half of Texas’ offensive production and delivered in the crucial moments of the fourth and fifth sets. Junior setter Ella Swindle kept the offense organized with 37 assists, surpassing the 1,500 career mark. Libero Emma Halter anchored the defense and surpassed 300 career digs, while middle blocker Nya Bunton produced a career-high nine blocks. Each of them played pivotal roles in stabilizing the team when Louisville threatened to tip the match in its favor. Louisville’s Push Falls Just Short Louisville, now 4–1, nearly handed Texas its first loss of the season. Payton Petersen led the Cardinals with 18 kills, while Cara Cresse delivered a massive performance at the net with 14 blocks, tying a school record. Setter Nayelis Cabello orchestrated the attack with 38 assists and added seven blocks, while Chloe Chicoine contributed 13 kills and 14 digs. The Cardinals held a slight edge in blocking with a 20–15 margin, and their defense frustrated Texas for long stretches. Louisville won the first and third sets largely on the back of their serving pressure and ability to capitalize on Texas errors. However, a string of late miscues and Texas’ knack for producing clutch points prevented them from sealing the upset. How the Match Played Out The opening set went Louisville’s way after the Cardinals surged to a 5–0 lead behind Kamden Schrand’s serving. Texas clawed back to tie the score at 15–15, but eight attack errors in the frame proved too costly, and Louisville closed it out 25–23. Texas answered in the second set with one of its cleanest stretches of play, hitting .500 in the early stages and cruising to a 25–16 win. Stafford and Spears combined for 10 kills, while Bunton anchored the defense at the net. Louisville, in contrast, hit a negative percentage and struggled to stay competitive. The Cardinals regained control in the third, as freshman Hannah Kenny’s serving run, which included back-to-back aces, pushed them ahead. They eventually closed the set 25–21, while Texas hit just .053, its lowest output of the match. Facing elimination, Texas regrouped in the fourth. Spears produced five kills and Vander Wal added four, while Bunton chipped in three blocks to slow Louisville’s rhythm. The Longhorns held off several late pushes to take it 25–22 and force a decisive fifth set. The finale was as dramatic as advertised. Louisville built a 10–6 lead and later held match point at 14–13 following Cresse’s record-tying block. Texas, however, dug deep with a four-point surge fueled by Vander Wal’s decisive kill to secure the 16–14 win. The Numbers Behind the Win Statistically, the teams were nearly identical, with Texas hitting .153 to Louisville’s .144. The Cardinals held the edge in blocks with 20 compared to Texas’ 15, and both teams were nearly even in service aces, with Louisville finishing with six and Texas with five. The glaring difference came in how Texas closed the match, outscoring Louisville 8–2 across the final 10 points of the fifth set. What It Means For Texas, the victory was more than another addition to the win column. It marked the third time under head coach Jerritt Elliott that the program has beaten four ranked opponents in its first five matches of a season, joining campaigns in 2009 and 2022. More importantly, it reinforced the Longhorns’ reputation as a team capable of grinding through adversity while still finding ways to win. Louisville left Fort Worth with its first defeat of the year, but not without positives. The Cardinals’ depth and defensive prowess were on full display, and their ability to push Texas to the brink validated their place among the nation’s top teams. Despite the loss, they showcased the potential for another deep run later in the season. Final Takeaway The clash between No. 2 Texas and No. 4 Louisville delivered on its promise as one of the best early-season matches in college volleyball. Texas’ combination of Stafford’s leadership, the emergence of Spears and Vander Wal, and timely defensive plays propelled them to victory despite bouts of inconsistency. Louisville, meanwhile, demonstrated toughness and skill but faltered in the closing moments. The 23–25, 25–16, 21–25, 25–22, 16–14 result will be remembered as an early-season classic, one that further established Texas as a national title contender while affirming Louisville as a worthy challenger.

Tigers Control from Start to Finish In the first-ever Showdown at the Net , Auburn volleyball delivered a statement performance on its home court at Neville Arena, sweeping Virginia 3–0 with set scores of 25–17, 25–16, and 25–21. The Tigers improved to 5–1 on the season, while the Cavaliers dropped to 4–2 as they struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined Auburn squad. From the opening serve, Auburn dictated tempo. Their combination of aggressive serving, precise setting, and relentless blocking put Virginia under pressure throughout the night. By the time the Cavaliers adjusted to one problem, Auburn found another way to exploit gaps.  Auburn’s Offensive Depth The Tigers showcased the balance of their attack, with multiple players stepping up at critical moments. Liz Markovska led all scorers with 11 kills, hitting with consistency on the outside. Lauren Dreves added 10 kills, continuing her streak of double-digit performances to open the year. Bel Zimmerman chipped in nine kills while hitting .500, and also contributed five blocks, tying her season best. Setter duo Kalei Edson and Shanelle Puetz kept the offense humming at a blistering pace. Auburn hit .333 as a team, including an efficient .412 in the opening set. Their ability to spread the ball across multiple options made it difficult for Virginia to key in defensively. The Tigers also made serving a weapon. Coming off a 10-ace performance against Jackson State, Auburn delivered four more against the Cavaliers, with Puetz recording two and both Edson and Dreves adding one each. Those service runs often created separation midway through sets when the score was tight. Defense Leads the Way While the offense was balanced, Auburn’s defense may have been even more impressive. The Tigers recorded 10.5 team blocks, marking their third straight match with double-digit totals. Zimmerman’s five blocks set the tone at the net, while Grace Havlicek and Kate Mansfield each added key stops. The collective effort forced Virginia into uncomfortable swings and ultimately limited them to just a .148 hitting percentage. Back-row defense was equally strong, with Alexis Dacosta registering 10 digs to anchor the floor. The ability to funnel Virginia’s attacks into predictable spots allowed Auburn to transition smoothly from defense to offense. Virginia’s Struggles For the Cavaliers, the night was defined by inconsistency and errors. Virginia committed 21 errors overall, compared to Auburn’s 11, repeatedly halting their own momentum. In the opening set, they made seven unforced errors and fell behind early. Although they battled closer in the second and third frames, late runs by Auburn sealed each set. Junior outside hitter Lauryn Bowie was a bright spot for Virginia, finishing with nine kills to lead the team. She provided timely points, including several during extended rallies, but lacked consistent support from the rest of the offense. Jasmine Robinson added three blocks, while Hannah Scott led the defense with eight digs. Still, the Cavaliers showed glimpses of their potential. A long rally late in the second set that ended in a Virginia point seemed like it might spark a turnaround, but Auburn responded with a 12–3 run to close the frame. Their youth and inexperience were evident, as mistakes compounded at critical junctures. How the Match Played Out The opening set was all Auburn after a quick 8–2 start. Virginia cut the deficit to four midway through, but the Tigers closed on a 6–1 run to take it 25–17. The second set was the most competitive early on, featuring nine ties and five lead changes. Virginia even led 13–12 before Auburn unleashed a 9–0 run fueled by blocks and aces to claim a 25–16 win. The third set featured 12 ties and four lead changes, with the Cavaliers fighting to extend the match. At 19–18, Auburn tightened its play, finding kills from Mansfield, Zimmerman, and Markovska. The Tigers secured the sweep with a 25–21 finish. What It Means Going Forward For Auburn, the sweep was more than just another win — it was validation that the team is building momentum and cohesion. The Tigers have now hit above .300 in four matches this season and are proving they can blend offensive variety with defensive strength. Head coach Brent Crouch praised his team’s decision-making and execution, noting the improvement in chemistry as the season progresses. Virginia, on the other hand, faces questions as ACC play looms. After starting 3–0, the Cavaliers have now dropped two straight matches. With a roster heavy on young players, their challenge will be limiting errors and finding consistent offensive flow. Upcoming matches against Michigan will provide opportunities to regroup before facing top ACC competition. Final Takeaway Auburn’s 3–0 sweep of Virginia in the inaugural Showdown at the Net was defined by balance, efficiency, and defensive dominance. With Markovska, Dreves, and Zimmerman all producing offensively, and the blocking corps shutting down the Cavaliers, the Tigers never allowed Virginia to fully settle into the match. For the Cavaliers, Bowie’s play provided hope, but unforced errors and lapses at key points told the larger story. Auburn capitalized each time and left Neville Arena with a convincing victory that sets the tone for the rest of their non-conference schedule.

Mustangs Make a Statement at Moody Coliseum The atmosphere inside Moody Coliseum was electric as No. 10 SMU hosted No. 8 Texas A&M in one of the earliest top-10 clashes of the season. The Mustangs seized the moment, defeating the Aggies in straight sets 25-20, 25-14, 25-19 to improve to 6-0 on the year. With the victory, SMU notched its second ranked win of the season and handed A&M its first loss. For SMU, the match symbolized a continuation of momentum. After sweeping through their home tournament and earning national attention with multiple conference awards, the Mustangs proved they could control play against a seasoned SEC opponent. Dominant Start and Strong Finish SMU opened the first set with confidence, racing out to a four-point lead. A&M responded quickly to tie the frame and even held a 15-14 lead at the media timeout. From there, the Mustangs reclaimed the initiative, using a 4-0 run to retake control. With steady attacking from Jadyn Livings and a disciplined block, SMU closed out the set 25-20. The second set was all Mustangs. After trading points early to reach a 7-7 tie, SMU surged ahead with a three-point cushion at 15-12. Their block and transition game overwhelmed the Aggies, who committed errors and struggled to find rhythm. SMU finished on an 11-2 run to close the frame 25-14, taking a commanding 2-0 lead. A&M showed fight in the third set, tying the score multiple times and pulling even at 14-14 after a 4-0 run. But each surge was met by SMU’s composure. The Mustangs regrouped out of a timeout and strung together points in the middle rotations, closing the match 25-19. SMU’s Standout Performances The Mustangs’ balanced attack was led by opposite hitter Jadyn Livings, who posted 14 kills to lead all scorers. Her efficiency and timing kept A&M on its heels. Middle blocker Favor Anyanwu continued her dominant start to the season with multiple kills and blocks that swung momentum in SMU’s favor. Setter Averi Carlson was once again the catalyst, recording more than 30 assists while also contributing defensively at the net with blocks and key digs. Her ability to vary tempo opened lanes for hitters and kept the Aggies’ block guessing throughout the night. SMU also dominated in the blocking category, outpacing A&M 11-7 at the net. Their defensive presence forced the Aggies into a season-low hitting percentage of just .070, with only 29 kills across the three sets. Aggies Struggle to Find Rhythm Texas A&M entered the match undefeated and boasting a balanced offense led by All-Americans Logan Lednicky and Ifenna Cos-Okpalla. But the Aggies never established consistent rhythm against SMU’s disciplined defense. A&M committed 13 service errors and finished with 22 attack errors, repeatedly giving away momentum. Outside hitter Kyndal Stowers led the team with seven kills, but hit -.036 for the match. Lednicky was held to just six kills, while Cos-Okpalla managed only five with two blocks. Setter Maddie Waak was limited to 21 assists, her lowest output of the season. Despite showing flashes of resilience, particularly in the third set, A&M struggled to translate energy into sustained scoring. The loss dropped the Aggies to 5-1 as they quickly turned their attention to a road match against TCU. Numbers That Told the Story SMU hit .270 while Texas A&M managed only .070. The Mustangs out-blocked the Aggies 11 to 7, and service errors played a major role with SMU committing just five compared to A&M’s 13. SMU also finished with 38 kills while Texas A&M managed 29. The stat sheet highlighted SMU’s efficiency on both ends. The Mustangs committed just 11 attack errors compared to A&M’s 22, and their superior blocking consistently shifted rallies in their favor. What It Means Moving Forward For SMU, the sweep over a top-10 SEC program reinforced their credentials as a contender in the ACC and beyond. Head coach Sam Erger, in his fourth season, has already elevated the program to unprecedented heights, and this win further validates the team’s top-10 preseason ranking. With balanced scoring, defensive depth, and a setter running the offense at a high level, SMU looks poised to sustain its rise. For Texas A&M, the loss was a reminder of the challenges that come with early-season top-10 matchups. Despite their talent and preseason expectations, the Aggies were undone by errors and inconsistent play. They remain a formidable team, but will need to regroup quickly to avoid slipping in the polls. Final Takeaway SMU’s 3-0 sweep of Texas A&M was more than just another early-season victory. It was a statement of intent. The Mustangs showed composure, efficiency, and dominance at the net, while the Aggies struggled to match their pace and discipline. In a battle of top-10 teams, SMU emerged with confidence intact, momentum sustained, and a growing reputation as one of the most dangerous programs in the country.

A Rivalry Renewed College football fans were treated to one of the sport’s great rivalries on Saturday as Missouri and Kansas met for the first time since 2011. The Border War returned in dramatic fashion at a sold-out Faurot Field, where Missouri overcame multiple deficits to defeat Kansas 42–31. It was the Tigers’ second win of the season and extended their home winning streak to 12, the program’s longest in more than 80 years. The series, which dates back to 1891 and is rooted in the states’ Civil War history, had been dormant since Missouri left the Big 12 for the SEC. The long-anticipated renewal delivered the intensity fans expected, with wild swings, clutch plays, and a late Missouri surge that sealed the game. Early Jayhawks Advantage Kansas struck quickly, taking control in the first quarter with three touchdowns in rapid succession. Quarterback Jalon Daniels connected with DeShawn Hanika on a 15-yard pass, then the Jayhawks defense capitalized on a fumble return to extend the lead. A long 50-yard completion to Levi Wentz set up Daniels’ sneak from the goal line, pushing Kansas ahead 21–6. The Jayhawks looked poised to run away with it, combining defensive pressure with explosive plays on offense. Kansas became the first FBS team in a decade to be outgained by 200 yards in a half yet still not trail at halftime, illustrating how opportunistic they were despite Missouri’s statistical dominance. Tigers’ Second-Quarter Surge Missouri responded in the second quarter with a display of resilience. Quarterback Beau Pribula orchestrated a 15-play, 75-yard drive capped with a touchdown pass to Kevin Coleman Jr. The defense followed with a sack and forced fumble that resulted in a safety, then another long drive ended in a field goal. By halftime, Missouri had erased the deficit and tied the game at 21–21. The Tigers dominated the quarter, running 28 plays to Kansas’ four and outgaining the Jayhawks 186 to minus-18. Their ability to control possession and capitalize on mistakes swung momentum back to the home team, igniting the Faurot Field crowd. Back-and-Forth in the Second Half Kansas regained the lead in the third quarter with a field goal from Laith Marjan and then pulled ahead 31–28 early in the fourth after Daniels once again found Hanika for a touchdown. Each time, Missouri had an answer. Pribula kept drives alive with clutch throws and timely scrambles, eventually hitting Brett Norfleet for two critical second-half touchdowns. Norfleet finished with career highs of seven catches for 76 yards, including the 27-yard go-ahead score with just over four minutes remaining. It was a defining moment in a breakout performance, and it pushed Missouri into the lead for good. Closing the Door With Kansas still within striking distance, Missouri’s defense forced a quick three-and-out. Running back Jamal Roberts then sealed the game with a 63-yard touchdown run, his best performance as a Tiger. Roberts finished with 143 yards on just 13 carries, adding another dimension to Missouri’s balanced attack. Pribula capped the night completing 30 of 39 passes for 334 yards and three touchdowns. Coleman contributed 10 receptions for 126 yards, giving Missouri a 300-yard passer, a 100-yard rusher, and a 100-yard receiver in the same game for the first time since 2023. Ahmad Hardy also rushed for over 100 yards, marking the first time in nearly a decade the Tigers had two 100-yard rushers in one contest. By the Numbers Missouri outgained Kansas 595 to 254, including a decisive 261–3 advantage on the ground. The Tigers also dominated possession, holding the ball for over 40 minutes compared to Kansas’ 19. Missouri converted 14 of 24 third- and fourth-down attempts, while Kansas managed just five of 12. Despite trailing at multiple points, Missouri’s consistency in sustaining drives proved the difference. The Tigers have now won the last four matchups in the series and six of the last seven overall, extending their all-time lead to 58–54–9. What It Means For Missouri, the win was about more than just extending their unbeaten start. It was a statement of resilience, a reminder of their ability to respond under pressure, and another step in establishing Faurot Field as one of the toughest venues in college football. Head coach Eli Drinkwitz’s squad showed balance on offense and toughness on defense, traits that will be crucial as SEC play looms. Kansas left Columbia disappointed but not without positives. Daniels threw for 223 yards and two touchdowns, Hanika caught both scores, and the defense created opportunities that kept the Jayhawks in front for much of the game. However, an inability to stop Missouri on fourth down and the defense’s late collapse were decisive factors. The Jayhawks still have Big 12 opportunities ahead, beginning with their conference opener against West Virginia. Final Takeaway The return of the Border War lived up to its billing, with momentum swings, late heroics, and a charged atmosphere reminiscent of the rivalry’s past. Missouri’s 42–31 win was defined by poise, balance, and timely execution. Kansas showed fight and flashes of brilliance, but the Tigers’ persistence and finishing power ultimately carried the day. For fans on both sides, the rivalry’s renewal was long overdue. If Saturday’s clash was any indication, the Border War will once again be a fixture worth circling on the calendar every season.

Sooners Reclaim the Spotlight in Norman After a 6–7 season in 2024 that left fans and alumni restless, Oklahoma needed a performance to restore confidence in Brent Venables’ tenure. The Sooners delivered in front of 84,107 at Gaylord Family–Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, defeating No. 15 Michigan 24–13 in a top-20 showdown. With quarterback John Mateer leading the offense and the defense showing toughness from start to finish, Oklahoma announced itself as a team determined to reassert national relevance in 2025. The victory pushed Oklahoma to 2–0 on the season while Michigan fell to 1–1. It was only the second all-time meeting between these two historic programs — the Wolverines hold the most wins in FBS history, while Oklahoma owns the most since World War II — and this clash was as much about identity as it was about rankings. For the Sooners, it was proof that a season of frustration can be followed by a resurgence when the pieces align. Mateer’s Breakout Performance Much of the spotlight was on quarterback John Mateer, a Washington State transfer making his first start against a ranked opponent. He did not disappoint. Mateer threw for 270 yards, ran for 74, and accounted for all three of Oklahoma’s touchdowns. His poise against a defense known for physicality impressed from the opening drive. In the air, Mateer spread the ball effectively. Deion Burks led the receiving corps with 101 yards on seven catches, and Jaren Kanak contributed 69 yards. Both receivers stretched the field and gave Mateer targets at crucial moments. On the ground, while the Sooners weren’t dominant in rushing, Mateer’s scrambles kept Michigan’s defense honest and extended drives that otherwise could have stalled. Mateer’s two rushing touchdowns were both momentum-shifting plays. His 2-yard score just before halftime gave Oklahoma a 14–0 lead, creating a cushion that allowed Venables to lean on his defense in the second half. Later, his legs helped sustain Oklahoma’s marathon drive in the fourth quarter that closed the game. Wolverines Struggle Under Pressure Michigan entered Norman with a highly touted freshman quarterback, Bryce Underwood, making his first start in a hostile environment. It showed. Underwood completed just nine of 24 passes for 142 yards, failing to establish rhythm as Oklahoma’s front consistently applied pressure. The Wolverines’ lone offensive highlight came on the first play of the second half, when Justice Haynes broke loose for a 75-yard touchdown run to cut the deficit to 14–7. Haynes, a transfer from Alabama, finished with 125 yards on 19 carries and was easily Michigan’s most reliable weapon. Outside of that burst, however, the Wolverines’ offense generated little sustained production. Michigan’s defense did produce key plays, including interceptions by TJ Metcalf and Cole Sullivan, but the Wolverines were unable to capitalize fully. A missed field goal in the first half and an inability to convert in Oklahoma territory proved costly. For much of the contest, Michigan’s offense was held off balance, and by the time its defense began to tire in the fourth quarter, the game slipped away. Oklahoma’s Defense Sets the Tone For Venables, long known as a defensive strategist, this was a signature performance. His unit held Michigan to just 288 yards of total offense and forced multiple three-and-outs in the first half. Ernest Hausmann led the Wolverines with 11 tackles, but Oklahoma’s defense dictated the terms. Key to the effort was limiting Underwood’s ability to settle. Oklahoma’s pass rush created hurried throws, while the secondary prevented deep shots that could have flipped momentum. Even after Haynes’ long touchdown run, the Sooners regrouped and allowed only six more points the rest of the way. The Wolverines managed only 143 yards outside of the third quarter, underscoring how dominant Oklahoma’s defense was for three of the four frames. Crucially, the Sooners also stood firm after turnovers, holding Michigan to just six points on possessions following Oklahoma miscues. The Drive That Sealed It The defining moment came late in the fourth quarter. Leading 21–13, Oklahoma took over with just over 10 minutes remaining. Offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle called a perfectly balanced 16-play, 78-yard march that drained more than eight minutes off the clock. The Sooners mixed inside runs with short passes, grinding down the Wolverines’ front seven. The drive ended with a short field goal by Tate Sandell to push the lead to 24–13. More importantly, it left Michigan with under two minutes and no real chance to respond. For a program that prided itself on physicality, Oklahoma’s ability to control possession and impose its will in the trenches was as symbolic as it was decisive. Why the Win Matters For Oklahoma, this was more than just a victory over a ranked opponent. It was validation that the offseason adjustments — a new quarterback, lineup changes on the offensive line, and a recommitment to physical play — are paying dividends. The Sooners, now 2–0, are positioned to climb in the AP Top 25 and carry momentum into their upcoming matchup against Temple. Michigan, meanwhile, leaves Norman with questions. The Wolverines showed flashes, particularly from Haynes in the run game, but Underwood’s struggles and the lack of consistency on both sides of the ball highlight issues that must be addressed before Big Ten play. They will attempt to rebound at home against Central Michigan. Final Takeaway Oklahoma’s 24–13 victory over Michigan was a showcase of resilience, discipline, and identity. Mateer’s breakout performance gave the Sooners an offensive leader, Venables’ defense reaffirmed its toughness, and the closing drive symbolized the kind of football Oklahoma has been striving to reclaim. For Michigan, the setback underscored the difficulties of breaking in a freshman quarterback on the road against a ranked foe. For Oklahoma, it was the kind of win that not only boosts rankings but also reestablishes belief in a program eager to leave last year’s disappointment behind.

Hurricanes Offense Rolls Early The Miami Hurricanes delivered a commanding performance on Thursday night at Hard Rock Stadium, cruising past Bethune-Cookman 45–3. Ranked No. 5 nationally, Miami displayed the efficiency, balance, and depth that has elevated the program into early playoff conversations. By the time the first quarter ended, the Hurricanes had established control, and by halftime the outcome was essentially sealed. Quarterback Carson Beck, in his second start for the Hurricanes, was nearly flawless. He completed 22 of 24 passes for 267 yards and two touchdowns, setting a program record by opening with 15 consecutive completions. That mark broke Bernie Kosar’s longstanding record from 1984 and underscored the poise Beck brings to the offense. Wide receiver CJ Daniels emerged as the primary scoring threat with two touchdown receptions, while Malachi Toney led the team with 80 yards on six catches, keeping the chains moving on critical downs. The run game was equally punishing. Mark Fletcher Jr. provided the power, rushing for 86 yards and scoring twice, while Marty Brown and Girard Pringle Jr. added touchdowns that highlighted the depth of Miami’s backfield. With multiple backs contributing, Miami was able to wear down Bethune-Cookman’s defense over four quarters. Bethune-Cookman Struggles to Find Rhythm For Bethune-Cookman, the evening was an uphill battle from the opening snap. Facing the highest-ranked opponent in program history, the Wildcats were limited in their ability to generate explosive plays. Quarterback Timmy McClain was accurate, completing 13 of 15 passes, but most of his throws were short, and he finished with just 86 yards through the air. The Wildcats managed only 191 total yards and averaged just 3.8 yards per play. Their lone scoring drive came late in the second quarter, when McClain strung together completions to set up a 32-yard field goal by Juan Dominguez. While the drive briefly lifted the visiting sideline, Miami answered with a quick touchdown of its own to squash any momentum. Bethune-Cookman’s inability to sustain drives or establish the run left its defense exposed for long stretches. Against a top-five team with multiple offensive weapons, the Wildcats simply lacked the depth to compete beyond isolated flashes of success. Defensive Statement for the Canes While Miami’s offense piled up points, the defense played with equal dominance. The Hurricanes’ front seven controlled the line of scrimmage from the outset, producing 10 tackles for loss and holding Bethune-Cookman to just 84 rushing yards. Safety Keionte Scott delivered three tackles for loss, while Rueben Bain Jr. added a sack and forced fumble that halted one of the Wildcats’ few promising possessions. Linebacker Kellen Wiley led the team with five tackles, showcasing Miami’s ability to swarm to the ball. The secondary limited McClain’s options, forcing Bethune-Cookman to rely on underneath throws that rarely gained significant yardage. The unit’s discipline prevented big plays, ensuring that the Wildcats never seriously threatened the end zone. Miami’s defensive performance was not just about talent but also about consistency—every level of the defense executed assignments and smothered opportunities. Game Flow and Key Moments Miami wasted no time setting the tone, driving 90 yards in under two minutes on its opening possession. Beck capped the drive with a 40-yard strike to Daniels, and the rout was on. Fletcher added a 16-yard touchdown run moments later, and by the time Brown plunged into the end zone from short range, Miami was ahead 21–0. Bethune-Cookman’s lone highlight came late in the second quarter with its field goal, trimming the score to 21–3. The Hurricanes, however, answered immediately with a methodical drive capped by Daniels’ second touchdown catch to restore the margin to 28–3 before halftime. The second half was more of the same. Fletcher scored again on Miami’s opening possession, and Pringle added a 30-yard rushing touchdown that electrified the home crowd. A late field goal extended the advantage to 45–3, closing out a performance that left little doubt about the difference between the two programs. What This Win Means The victory improved Miami to 2–0 and marked its eighth consecutive win over Bethune-Cookman. For head coach Mario Cristobal, the game offered not just another victory but also confirmation that his team has both the depth and discipline required to contend at the highest level. This win also sets the stage for a crucial stretch of four consecutive games against in-state opponents. The Hurricanes will next face South Florida before clashing with Florida and Florida State—two contests that will likely shape the trajectory of their playoff hopes. Starting that gauntlet with a dominant, injury-free performance was exactly what Miami needed. For Bethune-Cookman, the loss was expected given the talent gap, but it still provided valuable experience for players competing on a national stage. Now 0–2, the Wildcats will turn their focus to a more manageable opponent in South Carolina State, where they hope to secure their first victory of the season. Bottom Line Miami’s 45–3 dismantling of Bethune-Cookman highlighted everything that makes the Hurricanes a legitimate contender in 2025. Beck’s record-setting accuracy, Fletcher’s power on the ground, Daniels’ playmaking ability, and a suffocating defense combined to create one of the program’s most complete performances in recent memory. For Miami, this was more than a routine win—it was a statement that the Hurricanes are equipped to dominate lesser opponents while building momentum toward tougher tests ahead. For Bethune-Cookman, the night was a reminder of the gulf between FCS competition and the top tier of the FBS, but also an opportunity to learn and regroup. The Hurricanes march forward at 2–0, their sights set firmly on an in-state gauntlet that will determine just how far this team can climb.

Wolfpack Bounce Back in Manhattan The NC State volleyball team rebounded strongly at the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Kansas Classic, sweeping Nevada 3-0 at Bramlage Coliseum in Manhattan, Kansas. With set scores of 25-18, 25-21, and 25-16, the Wolfpack moved to 4-1 on the season and earned its first road win of the year. For Nevada, the defeat extended a difficult start to its non-conference slate. The Wolf Pack fell to 0-2 in the tournament and will look to regroup quickly against host Kansas State. Bryant and Ring Power NC State Senior outside hitter Courtney Bryant set the tone for NC State with nine kills, four service aces, and a .500 hitting percentage, tying her career high for aces in a match. Bryant’s presence from the service line sparked runs in both the first and second sets, keeping Nevada on its heels. Freshman Rebecca Ring added six kills, while fellow newcomer Jordan Smith chipped in three in the decisive third set. The performance highlighted the team’s blend of experience and youth, with veterans leading while younger players stepped up in supporting roles. Set-by-Set Recap NC State jumped out to an early 10-6 lead in the first set, fueled by Bryant at the service line. A 6-0 run widened the gap, and the Wolfpack closed the frame 25-18 behind consistent attacking and defensive pressure. The second set initially looked lopsided as NC State built a double-digit advantage, but Nevada rallied late. The Wolf Pack trimmed the margin to just two points at 23-21 after kills from Jess Walkenhorst and McKaley Herr. NC State, however, closed it out 25-21 to take a 2-0 lead. In the third, Nevada again hung close early, tying the set at 6-6. NC State answered with a 5-0 run, keyed by kills from Ring and Smith, to regain control. From there, the Wolfpack extended its advantage and finished the sweep 25-16. Defensive Strength Defense was a decisive factor in NC State’s win. The Wolfpack recorded six team blocks, with freshman Kamryn Tifft leading both sides with four. Nevada tallied five blocks but struggled to sustain momentum in long rallies. NC State’s back row was steady throughout, controlling serve receive and limiting Nevada’s opportunities. Ring and Smith each made timely digs to extend rallies, while Bryant contributed on both ends of the floor. Nevada’s Bright Spots Despite the sweep, Nevada showed flashes of potential. Walkenhorst led the Pack with six kills, while Herr added five and Haylee Brown chipped in four. Setter Audrey Jensen finished with 17 assists, distributing effectively during Nevada’s second-set rally. Singleton provided an ace and led the team in digs with 10. Still, inconsistency plagued the Wolf Pack across all three sets. After battling back late in the second, errors and missed connections in the third prevented Nevada from extending the match. Program Notes and Milestones The victory marked NC State’s first-ever win over Nevada and its 820th in program history. It was also the fourth victory under head coach Megan Wargo-Kearney in the current era of Wolfpack volleyball. Bryant and Ring were later recognized with All-Tournament honors for their performances across the weekend, underscoring their growing impact on the squad. Looking Ahead NC State returns to Raleigh to host South Carolina on September 10 as part of the “Showdown at the Net” series. With momentum from a sweep and a strong 4-1 start, the Wolfpack will look to carry confidence into its home slate. Nevada will continue in the Classic against Kansas State , aiming to even its record after a challenging start. Building consistency and capitalizing on the sparks provided by Walkenhorst, Herr, and Singleton will be key as the Pack pushes forward. Final Takeaway NC State’s sweep of Nevada highlighted a blend of experienced leadership and emerging talent. Bryant’s serving and efficient hitting, combined with Ring’s energy, proved too much for Nevada to counter. For the Wolf Pack, late rallies showed promise, but errors and missed opportunities kept them from extending the match.

Mustangs Turn the Tide After Dropping the Opener SMU’s home opener doubled as a milestone night. The No. 11 Mustangs shrugged off a slow start and defeated Washington in four sets, 23–25, 25–22, 25–22, 25–19, to move to 3–0 and record the program’s 250th victory inside Moody Coliseum. The match had the tension and swings of a ranked-level duel: Washington’s physical pins landed early blows, but SMU’s balance, blocking, and late-set poise steadily seized control of the match and the narrative. Washington arrived intent on spoiling the celebration. The Huskies’ first-set efficiency forced SMU into chase mode and briefly quieted the building. From the second set on, however, the Mustangs made decisive adjustments—tightening first contact, setting quicker to the middle, and turning the match at the net. The result was a clean, fast-tempo offense that climbed all the way to .385 hitting on the night while limiting the visitors to extended sideout stretches. Livings, Jones, and Carlson Drive an Unstoppable Engine On a roster full of options, Jadyn Livings supplied the centerpiece performance: 18 kills at a crisp .371, plus nine digs and six blocks. Malaya Jones complemented her with 12 kills and a team-high 15 digs, underlining how often SMU’s outsides started and finished rallies. Averi Carlson conducted it all with 49 assists, guiding the Mustangs to their best attacking efficiency of the young season and sprinkling in seven digs for good measure. The lift in sideout speed was most obvious from set two onward. Carlson’s tempo to the pins widened gaps, Natalia Newsome’s slide and quicks forced Washington’s middle to stay honest, and the coverage around the attackers recycled tough balls that the Huskies had handled in the first frame. Every long exchange began to tilt SMU’s way, a sign that spacing, rhythm, and first-touch quality had all settled. The Net Belonged to the Mustangs If the offense supplied the spectacle, the block provided the separation. SMU finished with an 11–6 edge in total blocks and completely flipped the net-front story after the opener. Newsome led with seven stuffs, and Livings’ six made Washington think twice about attacking her lane. The effect was cumulative: deflections funneled balls to the floor defenders, transition opportunities multiplied, and the Huskies’ first-swing success from set one faded into grind-it-out points that favored the deeper side. Libero Jordyn Schilling steadied the back row with 13 digs, and freshman Maggie Croft delivered a momentum-jolting stretch in set three—back-to-back aces during a five-point run that swung the frame and, effectively, the night. Washington continued to land shots, but SMU’s block-touch-to-dig pipeline kept the Mustangs on the front foot in transition. How Each Set Was Won Set One (UW 25–23): Washington’s first-swing attack (.341) and a late three-point burst pushed the visitors to the finish line. SMU erased 22–20 with kills from Livings and Favor Anyanwu but couldn’t complete the steal. It was the Huskies’ best blocking set (3–1) and their cleanest sideout rhythm of the match. Set Two (SMU 25–22): The match pivoted here. SMU opened 9–5, weathered a Husky 6–1 push, then surged again with a 4–0 run fueled by Newsome’s quicks and a Livings termination. The Mustangs owned the net 6–1 in blocks in this frame alone, and their first-ball sideout rate spiked. Set Three (SMU 25–22): Washington’s 10–6 start didn’t hold. Croft’s serving run (two straight aces) keyed a five-point swing to 18–15, and Jones closed it down in the final rotations. SMU hit a blistering .526 in the set—its cleanest passing and sharpest spacing of the night. Set Four (SMU 25–19): An immediate 3–0 burst set the tone. Two separate 3–0 spurts later stretched the gap to 18–13, and the Huskies never clawed closer than four. Livings (six kills) and Jones (five) slammed the door while SMU posted .469 to finish. What the Numbers Say SMU out-hit Washington .385 to .239, out-blocked them 11–6, and out-dug them 49–39—a rare trifecta that reflects superiority in first contact, at the net, and in rally defense. The Mustangs’ attack rose steadily after set one, clearing .460 in each of the final three frames, the clearest indicator that the pass-set-hit rhythm settled and stayed. Washington, to its credit, kept pace into the late teens of each set, but SMU’s end-game organization—blocking matchups, serving targets, and transition spacing—was sharper when it mattered. Why This Win Matters Beyond the milestone tally at Moody, the performance reinforces who SMU intends to be this season: a top-tier side with multiple kill outlets, a setter capable of modulating tempo on the fly, and a front line that can win matches even when the serve-pass battle isn’t perfect. Beating a Pac-12 power by controlling the final three frames also builds confidence for the weekend’s quick turnaround and for the longer arc of conference play. Up next is Northern Iowa, another chance to refine the rotation while riding the momentum of a complete, problem-solving win. Bottom Line A first set that belonged to Washington turned into three sets of Mustang authority. Livings’ shot-making, Jones’ two-way impact, Carlson’s tempo, and Newsome’s wall at the net added up to a composed, professional home opener—and a fitting way to stamp victory No. 250 at Moody.

Blue Devils Start Strong Duke opened its matchup against Texas Tech with confidence, taking the first set 25-14 in dominant fashion. Behind an efficient .387 hitting percentage and a strong defensive presence at the net, the Blue Devils appeared ready to control the match. Freshman outside hitter Ashby Zubchevich and sophomore Taylor Williams led the charge, combining for seven kills in the frame. Duke also produced five blocks, with middle blocker Zoë Gillen-Malveaux contributing two block assists and a solo stop. The early performance put Duke in front 1-0 and gave them momentum inside Stegeman Coliseum . Red Raiders Flip the Script Texas Tech responded in the second set with an emphatic 25-10 win that completely shifted the tone of the match. The Red Raiders hit .360 while holding Duke to a negative percentage, fueled by five team blocks and steady back-row defense. Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week Sierra Grizzle anchored the floor with several digs, while graduate setter Peyton Dunn entered the match and guided the offense effectively. Reagan Engler added multiple kills in the frame as Texas Tech quickly tied the match 1-1 . Control in the Third The third set began with Texas Tech racing to an 8-4 lead, sparked by back-to-back aces from Tatum Johnson. Duke cut the deficit to one point, but the Red Raiders answered with a timely 4-1 run to reestablish control. Kenna Jioshvili Ravva and Engler combined for seven of the team’s nine kills in the set, while Aliyah McDonald controlled the net with blocks. Texas Tech maintained its edge throughout, winning 25-17 to move ahead 2-1 in the match . Kanouff Seals It in the Fourth The fourth set proved to be the most competitive, featuring 11 ties and three lead changes. Duke battled back to tie the frame late at 26-26, but Texas Tech’s Addie Kanouff took over. She posted 10 kills in the final set alone, hitting at an exceptional .692 clip. Her dominance propelled the Red Raiders to a 28-26 victory, closing out the 3-1 win. Grizzle’s defensive efforts, combined with 20 team digs, ensured that Texas Tech could withstand Duke’s late push . Standout Performers For Texas Tech, Kanouff recorded a career-high 14 kills, highlighted by her fourth-set heroics. Engler continued her consistent start to the season with double-digit kills and her second double-double, adding 12 digs. Jioshvili Ravva chipped in 11 kills, while McDonald anchored the net with seven blocks and contributed three kills. Dunn’s 29 assists balanced the attack, while Grizzle led the back row with 20 digs to go along with six assists . Duke was paced by Williams with 14 kills and Zubchevich with 13. Charlotte Glass added a match-high 30 assists, surpassing 100 for the season in just four matches, while libero Mailinh Godschall posted 21 digs, her third 20-dig performance in the last four contests. Redshirt senior Ngozi Iloh contributed eight kills and surpassed the 200-career mark . By the Numbers Texas Tech finished with a .226 hitting percentage while holding Duke to .141. The Red Raiders produced 51 kills, 58 digs, and 13 total blocks, while Duke tallied 50 kills, 56 digs, and nine blocks. The decisive differences came at the net and in the back row, where Tech’s blocking and defensive coverage disrupted Duke’s rhythm after the opening set . Looking Ahead The victory improved Texas Tech to 3-1 on the season, marking its fourth consecutive win in the all-time series against Duke. The Red Raiders now turn their attention to host team Georgia in the continuation of the Stegeman Coliseum showcase. Duke fell to 1-3 overall and will regroup quickly to face Alabama State next. The Blue Devils showed promise in stretches but were unable to maintain consistency after their strong first-set performance. Continued development from younger players like Zubchevich, alongside leadership from Williams and Iloh, will be crucial moving forward . Final Takeaway Texas Tech’s 3-1 victory over Duke showcased resilience and adaptability. After being dominated in the first set, the Red Raiders flipped the match with improved blocking, stronger back-row play, and timely hitting from Kanouff and Engler. For Duke, the result was another reminder of the challenges of finishing matches, even after a strong start. The 14-25, 25-10, 25-17, 28-26 scoreline reflected a battle of momentum, with Texas Tech ultimately seizing the key points and leaving Athens with a confidence-boosting win .

Yellow Jackets Earn First Ranked Win of the Season No. 23 Georgia Tech opened its first road trip of 2025 with an impressive performance, defeating No. 17 Purdue 3-1 at Holloway Gymnasium in the Stacey Clark Classic. The Yellow Jackets took the match with set scores of 25-21, 25-22, 20-25, and 25-17 . The victory pushed Georgia Tech to 4-0 on the season while handing Purdue its first loss. It also marked the Jackets’ first ranked win of the year and their highest-ranked victory since sweeping No. 13 Florida in 2024 . Mendes Leads the Offense Preseason All-ACC standout Larissa Mendes paced Georgia Tech with 17 kills, a .593 hitting percentage, and two blocks. Her performance was her best of the season and the most kills she has recorded in a single match since notching 21 against BYU last year . Mendes was joined by Ital Lopuyo, who posted a career-high 12 kills on 22 swings, hitting .500. Lopuyo’s efficiency gave Tech a second reliable option on the right side, helping the Jackets keep Purdue’s blockers off balance . Balanced Support Across the Court The Yellow Jackets benefited from steady contributions in both setting and defense. Sofia Velez anchored the back row with 20 digs, marking the 109th time in her career she has tallied double-digit digs. Mimi Mambu added her fourth straight match with 10 or more digs, providing consistency in serve receive and long rallies . At setter, Heloise Soares directed the offense with 25 assists while freshman Sara Toth added 19, a career high. Toth also posted a .432 set percentage, the best mark for a Georgia Tech setter this season. Defensively, DeAndra Pierce added two solo blocks, and Soares contributed one, giving Tech its highest solo block total of the season so far . Purdue’s Standouts Despite the loss, Purdue had several standout performances. Kenna Wollard recorded a career-high 24 kills on a .321 hitting percentage, while Grace Heaney notched her first career double-double with 13 kills and 13 digs. Taylor Anderson dished out 49 assists, her best mark of the season, while Dior Charles led the blocking effort with five of the Boilermakers’ nine total blocks . Purdue stayed competitive throughout, leading to 21 ties and 10 lead changes across the match. The Boilermakers also held the efficiency edge in the second and third sets, but Tech’s balance proved too much to overcome . Match Progression Georgia Tech started strong, claiming the opening set 25-21 after capitalizing on late Purdue errors. The Jackets carried that momentum into the second frame, closing out a tight 25-22 win to build a 2-0 advantage. Purdue rallied in the third, riding Wollard’s hot hand to a 25-20 victory that gave the home crowd hope. In the fourth set, however, Georgia Tech’s defense took over. Behind Mendes’ attacking and Velez’s digs, the Jackets dominated 25-17 to seal the match . Program Milestones and Atmosphere The win marked Georgia Tech’s first road victory of the season and improved its all-time record against Purdue to 1-1. It also brought the program’s all-time win total to 898, moving the Yellow Jackets closer to their 900th victory . The match was played in front of Purdue’s largest crowd of the season so far, with 2,415 fans filling Holloway Gymnasium. Despite the road environment, the Jackets displayed poise and composure, dropping only their third set of the season through four matches .  Final Takeaway Georgia Tech’s 3-1 victory over Purdue was a showcase of depth, balance, and efficiency. Mendes reaffirmed her role as the offensive leader, Lopuyo delivered a breakout performance, and Velez provided defensive stability. Purdue’s effort, highlighted by Wollard’s career night, was not enough against the Jackets’ composure in key moments. For Georgia Tech, the win reinforced its top-25 ranking and demonstrated potential for even greater achievements as the season progresses. For Purdue, the result was a reminder of the fine margins in ranked matchups, even as the Boilermakers showed promise moving forward .

A Ranked Clash in Baton Rouge The Pete Maravich Assembly Center hosted an early-season thriller as No. 10 SMU overcame a mid-match deficit to defeat No. 20 Baylor 3-2. The Mustangs prevailed with set scores of 26-24, 26-28, 22-25, 25-21, and 15-13 in a contest that featured momentum swings, long rallies, and standout performances on both sides. The victory improved SMU to 2-0 and extended its edge in the all-time series with Baylor, now 7-6. For head coach Sam Erger, the result marked her ninth win over a ranked opponent and her third straight triumph over the Bears. Jones, Livings, and Carlson Steer the Mustangs SMU’s success revolved around its reliable trio of Malaya Jones, Jadyn Livings, and Averi Carlson. Jones powered the attack with 24 kills while also adding 16 digs and four blocks. Livings contributed a career-best 21 kills with 12 digs and four blocks, consistently providing answers when Baylor surged. Carlson orchestrated the offense with 53 assists, chipped in 14 digs, and tallied a career-high five blocks. Together, the trio carried much of SMU’s production, and all three registered double-doubles, the first time that had happened in a single match for the program. SMU closed the match with a .271 hitting percentage and dominated at the net with 19 total blocks. Favor Anyanwu and Natalia Newsome chipped in with eight blocks each, while libero Jordyn Schilling anchored the defense in the back row. Baylor Pushes SMU to the Limit Baylor showed resilience in nearly every set. Setter Harley Kreck finished with a career-high 28 assists, while outside hitter MJ McCurdy recorded 16 kills for the second consecutive match. The Bears excelled from the service line, outpacing SMU with nine aces compared to the Mustangs’ five, led by Tehani Ulufatu and Victoria Davis. On defense, Bri Denney collected 29 digs to lead all players, and freshman Morgan Madison impressed again with 26 digs after notching 12 the previous night. Despite finishing with more kills, digs, and service aces, Baylor’s inability to match SMU’s blocking presence proved costly. The Mustangs’ 19-10 advantage at the net disrupted the Bears’ rhythm and stalled momentum during crucial stretches. The Flow of the Match The opening set established the tone with 12 ties and seven lead changes. Baylor appeared to be in control at 21-19 before SMU stormed back with a late push, sealing the set 26-24. The Bears answered in the second, rallying from multiple deficits to pull out a 28-26 win. In the third, Baylor built an early cushion and maintained it throughout, closing out a 25-22 victory to go ahead 2-1 overall. SMU, facing elimination, responded in the fourth. A decisive 5-0 run midway through the frame gave the Mustangs control, and they rode that surge to a 25-21 win that leveled the match. The deciding set was a thriller, featuring nine ties and three lead changes. Deadlocked at 10-10, Jones and Livings delivered the key points down the stretch, pushing SMU to a 15-13 victory and securing the match. By the Numbers SMU closed with a .271 hitting percentage, while Baylor finished at .219. The Mustangs controlled the net with 19 blocks compared to Baylor’s 10, but the Bears held the edge from the service line, producing nine aces to SMU’s five. Total points underscored how tight the contest was, with SMU tallying 89 to Baylor’s 88. Over the five sets, the match included 25 ties and 12 lead changes, reflecting just how even the battle was throughout the night. What’s Next for Both Teams For SMU, the win validated its preseason top-10 ranking and highlighted the strength of its core players. With Jones and Livings powering the attack and Carlson directing the offense, the Mustangs appear well-positioned ahead of their home opener against No. 21 Washington. Baylor dropped to 1-1 but displayed enough promise to remain optimistic. McCurdy’s consistency on offense and Denney’s leadership in the back row provide stability. Despite the setback, Baylor showed it can push elite opponents deep into matches, which should serve them well during the Big 12 schedule.  Final Takeaway SMU’s 3-2 victory over Baylor was a battle of endurance and execution. The Bears impressed with their serving and defensive grit, but the Mustangs’ dominance at the net ultimately made the difference. For Baylor, the result highlighted both strengths and areas for growth, while for SMU it reinforced their place among the nation’s elite with another signature win early in the season.

Mustangs Open with a Thriller The No. 10 SMU volleyball team began its 2025 campaign with a nail-biting victory, edging LSU in five sets at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center in Baton Rouge. The Mustangs prevailed with set scores of 25-20, 20-25, 23-25, 25-16, and 15-12. The matchup was the first of the year for both teams and lived up to its billing, with long rallies, late-set drama, and momentum shifts that kept the 2,072 fans — the seventh-largest crowd in LSU volleyball history — engaged from start to finish. Jones and Wilburn Lead the Charge SMU’s attack was fueled by Malaya Jones , who led the team with 20 kills while hitting .341. She also chipped in eight digs and three blocks, setting the tone for the Mustangs on both ends. Freshman Christa Wilburn had a debut to remember, breaking the program’s rally-scoring era record with seven aces, including the match-clinching point in the decisive fifth set. Her serving runs proved critical in shifting momentum back toward SMU whenever LSU threatened. Setter Averi Carlson kept the offense balanced with 51 assists, while outside hitter Jadyn Livings provided 13 kills, nine digs, and five blocks. In the back row, libero Jordyn Schilling anchored the defense with 23 digs, the most in a season opener since 2023. LSU’s Response Behind Robinson and Washington LSU did not go quietly. Jurnee Robinson delivered a match-high 25 kills with 12 digs and two blocks, marking her 12th career 20-kill double-double. Alongside her, Nia Washington recorded 13 kills, a career-best 18 digs, and two aces. The duo combined for more than half of LSU’s total offense and gave the Mustangs fits at the net. In the middle, Jessica Jones added eight blocks and seven kills, while setters Lauren Brooker (26 assists) and Takyla Brown (24 assists) split duties effectively to keep the Tigers’ attack balanced. The Tigers actually outpaced the Mustangs statistically in several categories, finishing with more kills (60-57), assists (60-57), and digs (60-57). But SMU’s edge in efficiency, particularly from the service line and at the net, ultimately made the difference. Set-by-Set Breakdown Set One (25-20 SMU): A tightly contested frame featured 15 ties and seven lead changes. SMU pulled away late thanks to a pair of kills from Livings and strong blocking from Anyanwu, finishing with a .419 hitting percentage. Set Two (25-20 LSU): The Tigers answered with cleaner execution, posting four blocks to none for SMU. Robinson and Washington combined for nine kills as LSU evened the match. Set Three (25-23 LSU): LSU rallied from a mid-set deficit behind Robinson’s seven kills in the frame. A late 3-0 run sealed the set and gave the Tigers a 2-1 advantage. Set Four (25-16 SMU): Facing elimination, SMU responded with its sharpest hitting of the night at .577. Jones and Livings powered the offense, while the Mustangs’ defense limited LSU to a .069 clip. Set Five (15-12 SMU): LSU jumped ahead early, but Wilburn’s serving sparked a 5-0 run. The Tigers briefly regained the lead at 12-11 before SMU closed with four straight points, capped by Wilburn’s record-setting ace. Key Numbers SMU hitting percentage: .278 LSU hitting percentage: .201 Service aces: SMU 8, LSU 6 Blocks: SMU 11, LSU 8 The Mustangs’ ability to win the serving (8-6) and blocking (11-8) battles highlighted their efficiency, offsetting LSU’s statistical edge in kills, assists, and digs. What It Means Going Forward For SMU, the five-set victory marked its first win in Baton Rouge and improved the Mustangs to 3-2 all-time against LSU. Head coach Lisa Erger also improved her career record at SMU to 74-25, and the team moved to 19-11 in season openers, 3-1 under her leadership. The performance of Jones and Wilburn, coupled with the depth shown across the lineup, suggests that SMU is ready to live up to its top-10 ranking. With a showdown against No. 20 Baylor looming, the Mustangs will look to build on this momentum. For LSU, the narrow loss demonstrated resilience and potential. Robinson’s dominance and Washington’s breakout effort highlight a team capable of competing with elite opponents. While the result stings, the Tigers’ home crowd witnessed a gritty effort that bodes well for the rest of the season. Final Takeaway SMU’s 3-2 win over LSU was a showcase of grit, execution, and clutch performances. In a match defined by long rallies and momentum swings, it was Wilburn’s serving, Jones’ steady attacking, and Schilling’s defensive anchor that gave the Mustangs the edge. For LSU, Robinson and Washington proved they can carry the load against top competition, leaving optimism for what lies ahead in 2025. Both teams left the court battle-tested, but it was SMU that walked away with the season-opening statement victory

Panthers Find Their Stride in Pittsburgh The No. 9 Pitt volleyball team delivered its most complete performance of the young season, sweeping No. 7 Arizona State 3-0 at PPG Paints Arena in the State Farm Volleyball Showcase. With set scores of 25-21, 25-18, and 25-16, the Panthers capped off a strong weekend that also featured a win over No. 25 TCU. After starting the year 0-2 against Nebraska and Florida, Pitt climbed back to .500 with back-to-back victories over ranked opponents. The win was just the second ever for Pitt against Arizona State, following a sweep back in 1989. It also provided momentum for a Panthers team eager to reassert itself after early-season challenges. Balanced Offense Leads the Way Pitt’s attack was steady and efficient, highlighted by Blaire Bayless, who recorded a team-high nine kills on a .292 hitting percentage. Olivia Babcock and Dagmar Mourits chipped in with six kills apiece, while setter Brooke Mosher distributed the ball effectively with 21 assists and added three kills of her own. As a unit, Pitt tallied 32 kills and seven service aces while hitting .226 for the match. The Panthers consistently found answers when Arizona State pressed, using a combination of disciplined setting and timely execution at the net. Defense Dominates at the Net The defining difference came on defense. Pitt limited Arizona State to a .051 hitting percentage and just 31 kills. Middle blocker Bre Kelley anchored the effort with a match-high seven blocks, while also recording her 500th career kill in the third set. The Panthers finished with 14 team blocks, more than triple Arizona State’s total. Bayless also provided five blocks, a career best, while Mosher and Ryla Jones combined to add key stops. Pitt’s ability to control the net disrupted the Sun Devils’ rhythm and forced them into attack errors during pivotal stretches. How the Match Unfolded Arizona State opened the first set strong, building a 5-0 lead that forced Pitt to regroup. The Panthers responded with a 6-1 run fueled by Bayless’ kills and blocks, eventually taking their first lead at 15-14 on a Babcock service ace. The set remained close until Mourits sealed it 25-21 with a decisive kill. The second set again saw the Sun Devils grab an early edge, but Pitt quickly turned the tide. A mid-set 8-1 surge gave the Panthers a 16-8 cushion, and Kelley and Jones closed the frame with a block and kill to secure a 25-18 win. In the third, Arizona State tied the score at 5-5 before Pitt exploded with a 10-1 stretch, sparked by Mosher’s kill and service pressure from Mallorie Meyer. From there, the Panthers never looked back, finishing off the sweep with a 25-16 victory. Key Performances Bayless not only led in kills but set a new personal best with five blocks. Kelley’s seven blocks and milestone kill added to her growing resume, while Mosher showed all-around impact with assists, aces, and defensive presence. Emery Dupes anchored the back row with eight digs, complemented by Babcock with six and contributions from Mosher and Marina Pezelj. For Arizona State, Noemie Glover provided early sparks with multiple kills, but the Sun Devils struggled to maintain offensive efficiency against Pitt’s blocking wall. What’s Next Pitt’s performance across the State Farm Showcase signaled a team settling into rhythm. After difficult opening losses to Nebraska and Florida, the Panthers responded with two ranked wins that reestablished confidence. They now prepare for their home opener against Jacksonville on September 5, followed by a matchup with Pepperdine on September 7. Arizona State, meanwhile, dropped its first match of the season after entering 2-0. The Sun Devils will regroup as they return to conference play, but the loss highlighted areas for improvement against elite blocking teams. Final Takeaway No. 9 Pitt’s sweep of No. 7 Arizona State was a statement of resilience and efficiency. After falling behind early in sets, the Panthers consistently rallied with blocking dominance and timely scoring. Bayless’ leadership, Kelley’s defensive presence, and Mosher’s all-around play combined to overwhelm a top-10 opponent. The 25-21, 25-18, 25-16 victory gave Pitt momentum moving forward, proving that even after a shaky start, the Panthers remain a formidable force in the national volleyball landscape

Hurricanes Break Top-10 Drought For the first time in nearly eight years, Miami defeated a top-10 opponent — and once again it came at the expense of Notre Dame. The No. 10 Hurricanes edged the No. 6 Fighting Irish 27-24 at Hard Rock Stadium, delivering a statement victory to open the 2025 season. The win snapped Miami’s eight-game losing streak against top-10 foes and gave head coach Mario Cristobal a signature triumph to kick off the year. For Notre Dame, the defeat continued a troubling pattern of road losses against the Hurricanes, who have now beaten the Irish seven straight times at home. Miami Strikes Before the Half The first half was evenly matched until the final seconds. Notre Dame answered Miami’s early touchdown with a 7-yard pass from CJ Carr to Micah Gilbert, knotting the score at 7-7. But the Hurricanes responded just before halftime when CJ Daniels pulled in a spectacular one-handed grab in the end zone, giving Miami a 14-7 advantage at the break. That momentum carried into the third quarter as Miami marched 75 yards on its opening drive, capped by a 5-yard touchdown run from Marty Brown. With the lead extended to 21-7, Miami appeared in full control. Notre Dame Rallies Back The Irish fought their way back into the contest. CJ Carr, making his first collegiate start, showed poise under pressure. He connected with Jordan Faison early in the fourth quarter to cut the deficit to 21-14. After Miami added a field goal to make it 24-14, Carr led another drive featuring a 65-yard strike to Eli Raridon that set up a short rushing score. Notre Dame then converted on defense, forcing a punt to regain possession. Carr capped the comeback effort with a 7-yard keeper into the end zone, tying the game at 24-24 with just over three minutes remaining. Davis Delivers the Winner Miami refused to let the game slip away. Quarterback Carson Beck, making his debut for the Hurricanes, guided the offense 46 yards on 10 plays. With just over a minute left, kicker Carter Davis drilled a 47-yard field goal to put Miami back in front 27-24. Notre Dame had one last chance, starting from its own 25. But the Hurricanes’ defensive front rose to the occasion, sacking Carr on consecutive plays to seal the victory. Key Performances Miami’s offense was balanced throughout the night. Beck threw for 205 yards and two touchdowns, including the highlight-reel grab by Daniels just before halftime. Malachi Toney added a touchdown reception, and Brown’s second-half rushing score gave the Hurricanes breathing room when they needed it most. Miami finished with 324 total yards, narrowly outgaining Notre Dame’s 314. Defensively, Rueben Bain produced one of the game’s most important plays with an interception off a triple deflection in the fourth quarter, halting a Notre Dame drive in Miami territory. For Notre Dame, Carr’s debut was impressive despite the loss. He completed 19 of 30 passes for 221 yards and accounted for three total touchdowns — two through the air and one on the ground. Faison and Gilbert each recorded touchdown grabs, while Raridon led all receivers with 97 yards, highlighted by his late 65-yard reception. On defense, safety Jalen Stroman paced the Irish with nine tackles. What It Means Moving Forward The victory is likely to boost Miami in the national rankings, validating the hype around Cristobal’s rebuilding efforts. With Beck extending the program’s streak of quarterbacks winning their debut starts, the Hurricanes appear positioned to make a run in the ACC. Notre Dame, meanwhile, will face questions about its ability to close out marquee games. The Irish became the fourth preseason top-eight team to lose opening weekend, joining Texas, Clemson, and Alabama. With a challenging schedule ahead that includes Texas A&M in two weeks, the margin for error has already narrowed. Final Takeaway Miami’s 27-24 win over Notre Dame was a showcase of grit, timely execution, and defensive resilience. The Hurricanes ended a long drought against top-10 opponents with a clutch field goal and a defensive stand in the final minute. For Notre Dame, it was a promising debut for CJ Carr but a frustrating end to a winnable game. Both programs remain contenders in the new playoff era, but Miami leaves opening weekend with the momentum, while Notre Dame is left searching for answers.

Tigers vs. Tigers in Primetime In a highly anticipated top-10 matchup to open the 2025 season, No. 9 LSU came from behind to defeat No. 4 Clemson 17-10 at Memorial Stadium. The game, billed as a clash of two high-powered offenses, turned into a defensive battle where LSU’s adjustments and resilience proved decisive. The win marked LSU’s first season-opening victory since 2019 and handed head coach Brian Kelly his first opening triumph with the program. For Clemson, the result was a third consecutive season-opening loss, adding to a concerning trend against SEC opponents. Clemson’s Early Control Clemson struck first on a field goal set up by a turnover deep in LSU territory. The home team extended its advantage later in the first half with a 13-play drive capped by a 1-yard rushing touchdown from Adam Randall. Clemson’s defense also forced two fumbles, including one in the red zone just before halftime, preserving a 10-3 lead at the break. At that point, Clemson appeared firmly in control. Cade Klubnik moved the offense with short passing plays, and the defense kept LSU’s receivers contained. The crowd of over 81,000 roared as the home team looked ready to seal a signature victory early in the season. LSU Flips the Script in the Second Half Momentum shifted in the third quarter when Clemson’s normally reliable kicker Nolan Hauser missed a 48-yard attempt. LSU capitalized on the opening, as quarterback Garrett Nussmeier began finding rhythm in the passing game. After several sharp completions to Aaron Anderson, LSU tied the game on a short touchdown run from Caden Durham. Later, early in the fourth quarter, Nussmeier connected with Trey’Dez Green for an 8-yard touchdown pass in the corner of the end zone. That score gave LSU its first lead of the night, 17-10, with just over 12 minutes to play. Defensive Dominance by LSU While the offense provided the comeback spark, LSU’s defense was the true difference. The Tigers from Baton Rouge limited Clemson to just 31 rushing yards on 20 attempts , completely shutting down the ground game. That forced Klubnik to shoulder the offensive load, and while he threw for 230 yards, he completed fewer than 50 percent of his passes and was pressured throughout. LSU’s defensive front disrupted rhythm by collapsing the pocket and forcing hurried throws. The unit also created predictable situations by stuffing early-down runs, which allowed LSU’s secondary to lock in on receivers in passing downs. Clemson’s final possession ended when Klubnik, flushed from the pocket on fourth-and-4, was forced to throw incomplete under duress. Missed Opportunities Hurt Clemson Clemson had its chances late. Twice in the fourth quarter, the defense gave the offense the ball back with opportunities to tie. The first drive ended in a quick three-and-out, while the second advanced inside the LSU 20 before stalling. On both occasions, Clemson’s offensive line struggled to handle LSU’s pass rush, leaving Klubnik without enough time to find his receivers. The loss was compounded by the early injury to star wideout Antonio Williams, who exited in the first quarter and did not return. While Clemson has depth at receiver, his absence reduced options for Klubnik against LSU’s improving secondary. Key Performances LSU: Garrett Nussmeier threw for 230 yards and a touchdown, with 134 yards coming in the second half. Durham rushed for 74 yards and a score, while Green’s touchdown reception provided the winning margin. Clemson: Cade Klubnik totaled 230 passing yards but added one interception. Adam Randall scored the team’s lone touchdown, and Bryant Wesco contributed multiple big plays in the passing game. Implications for Both Teams For LSU, the victory was a statement that the Tigers’ retooled roster, bolstered by transfers, can contend immediately. The defense’s ability to shut down a high-profile quarterback and force Clemson into one-dimensional play demonstrated the toughness head coach Brian Kelly emphasized in the offseason. For Clemson, the setback was a reminder of lingering issues in big games. The Tigers fell to 0-3 in their last three season openers and 0-7 against ranked SEC teams since 2019. Still, with an ACC schedule ahead and the expanded College Football Playoff offering multiple paths, their championship hopes remain alive if adjustments are made. Final Takeaway What was expected to be a high-scoring duel between two talented quarterbacks instead became a test of discipline and defense. LSU passed that test, rallying from a halftime deficit and shutting down Clemson’s offense in the second half. The 17-10 win lifted LSU to 1-0 and gave them momentum heading into their home opener against Louisiana Tech. Clemson, now 0-1, will regroup at home against Troy, but the Tigers from South Carolina must address their offensive line and rushing attack if they hope to stay in the playoff conversation.

Cardinals Finish Tournament Perfect The No. 4 Louisville volleyball team wrapped up its Cardinal Classic in commanding fashion, defeating St. John’s 3-0 at the L&N Federal Credit Union Arena. With set scores of 25-13, 25-15, and 25-19, the Cardinals secured a perfect 3-0 record in the event and continued to showcase their top-five ranking credentials. For St. John’s, the loss dropped them to 0-3 to start the season. Despite the setback, senior outside hitter Erin Jones was recognized for her strong play across the tournament, earning a spot on the All-Tournament Team after finishing with 28 kills, 36 assists, and 20 digs over three matches. Louisville’s Balanced Attack Louisville delivered a clinical performance marked by balance and efficiency. The Cardinals hit .362 as a team, producing 44 kills and 12 blocks while limiting errors. Payton Petersen led the way offensively, matching her career high with 12 kills on an impressive .611 hitting percentage. Middle blocker Reese Robins added 10 kills and six blocks in her first start of the season, while Hannah Sherman contributed seven blocks and three kills. Setter Molly Willson directed the offense seamlessly with 32 assists and added two kills, while libero Kamden Schrand anchored the defense with a career-best 18 digs and three service aces. Chloe Chicoine chipped in with 12 digs and consistent scoring on the outside, rounding out a dominant team effort. Jones Shines for St. John’s Although overpowered, St. John’s found positives in the play of senior Erin Jones. She posted 12 kills, hit .333, and added five digs, one ace, and a block, continuing to establish herself as the team’s leader. Freshman setter Martina Capponcelli tallied 18 assists, while Chloe Bell provided two and a half blocks and Rashanny Solano Smith contributed nine kills. Defensively, St. John’s produced five total blocks, its best output of the season so far. How the Match Unfolded Louisville quickly seized control in the opening set. After St. John’s grabbed the first two points, the Cardinals answered with a strong blocking presence and kills from Petersen and Chicoine to build a 10-6 lead. By the midpoint of the frame, Louisville had extended its advantage to 20-9, riding a 6-0 run. Petersen sealed the set 25-13 with her seventh kill. The second set followed a similar script. Although St. John’s kept things close early, Louisville surged ahead to a 14-9 advantage and never looked back. Petersen added her 10th kill of the match as Schrand delivered another ace. The Cardinals closed the set on a strong run to win 25-15. The third set proved to be the most competitive. St. John’s tied the score at 5-5 thanks to kills from Jones and a block by Chloe Bell, but Louisville responded with a 7-0 spurt that widened the gap to 13-5. The Red Storm clawed back to within five points at 23-18 on a late rally sparked by Jones’ 10th kill, yet Louisville shut the door with a block and a final kill to secure the 25-19 victory. Tournament Honors The conclusion of the Cardinal Classic saw seven players named to the All-Tournament Team. Louisville’s Kamden Schrand earned MVP honors, with Petersen and Chicoine also making the list. Auburn’s Lauren Dreves and Liz Markovska, Morehead State’s M.E. Hargan, and St. John’s Erin Jones rounded out the selections. What’s Next For St. John’s, the match closed a tough but valuable weekend. Despite going winless, the Red Storm showed signs of improvement and will now travel to Hawaii for the Outrigger Invitational. Their first match in Honolulu comes against Utah Valley on Sept. 4, providing an opportunity to rebound against a non-conference opponent. Louisville, meanwhile, continues to look every bit the powerhouse expected of a top-five team. With a balanced roster that thrives both at the net and in the back row, the Cardinals are positioned for another strong season as ACC play approaches. Their sweep of the Cardinal Classic sets a tone of confidence as they move deeper into their non-conference schedule. Final Takeaway Louisville’s sweep of St. John’s was a reflection of depth, efficiency, and balance. Petersen’s firepower, Schrand’s defensive anchor, and Robins’ emergence in the middle combined to overwhelm their opponent. For St. John’s, Jones’ recognition on the All-Tournament Team offered a silver lining as the program continues to develop. The 25-13, 25-15, 25-19 result underscored the gap between the fourth-ranked Cardinals and a rebuilding Red Storm squad, but also highlighted individual performances that will be pivotal moving forward

Utes Dominate in Pasadena Utah opened the 2025 season with an emphatic statement, rolling past UCLA 43-10 at the Rose Bowl. In front of a crowd of just over 35,000, the Utes controlled the game from start to finish, showcasing offensive efficiency, defensive toughness, and special teams execution. The win moved Utah to 17-4 in season openers under head coach Kyle Whittingham and extended its strong run against the Bruins, improving to 8-2 in their last 10 meetings . Dampier Takes Charge Quarterback Devon Dampier was the star of the night, making the most of his first start since transferring with offensive coordinator Jason Beck from New Mexico. Dampier completed 21 of 25 passes for 206 yards and two touchdowns while also leading Utah in rushing with 87 yards and a score on 16 carries. His ability to extend plays frustrated the UCLA defense all evening, as he accounted for nearly 300 total yards. Utah’s offensive production was balanced and relentless, totaling 492 yards while averaging 6.2 yards per play. The Utes converted an astounding 14 of 17 third downs and scored on all six trips to the red zone. A Fast Start The tone was set in the opening quarter when Utah jumped out to a 20-0 lead. Wayshawn Parker capped an early drive with a 13-yard touchdown run, followed shortly by two-way standout Smith Snowden, who added an 8-yard rushing score. Snowden also caught six passes for 51 yards, delivered a tackle on defense, and proved one of the night’s most versatile contributors. Utah’s defense forced UCLA into repeated mistakes, and by halftime the Utes had built a 23-7 advantage. The only Bruins highlight came on a 19-yard touchdown pass from Nico Iamaleava to Anthony Woods midway through the second quarter . Bruins Falter in Debut Under Foster For UCLA, the debut of quarterback Nico Iamaleava and offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri failed to deliver the fireworks many fans expected. Iamaleava finished 11 of 22 for 136 yards with one touchdown and one interception. He was also the Bruins’ leading rusher with 47 yards on 13 carries, underscoring the team’s struggles to establish a consistent ground game . UCLA’s running backs combined for just 37 yards, averaging under three yards per carry. The offense totaled only 220 yards, went 2-for-11 on third down, and failed to generate momentum outside of its opening touchdown drive. The Bruins’ defense, which entered the season with optimism, could not handle Dampier’s dual-threat ability. Utah’s offensive line kept him upright, while the Bruins missed tackles and rarely pressured the quarterback . Defensive Excellence from Utah While Dampier and the offense grabbed headlines, Utah’s defense dominated in equal measure. The Utes held UCLA to 84 rushing yards on 28 carries and forced three turnovers. Linebacker Lander Barton added a surprising offensive contribution, hauling in a 14-yard touchdown pass, while anchoring a defense that finished with four sacks and five tackles for loss. John Henry Daley paced the pass rush with two sacks, while Logan Fano, Nate Ritchie, and Jackson Bennee added five tackles each. Utah consistently disrupted plays behind the line of scrimmage and smothered UCLA’s receivers downfield. Second-Half Control After taking a 23-7 lead into halftime, Utah extended its dominance in the third quarter. Dampier scored on a fourth-and-goal keeper from two yards out to make it 30-10, and from there the Utes never looked back . Kevorian Barnes added a highlight with a 75-yard touchdown sprint on the first play of the second half, electrifying Utah’s sideline and silencing the Rose Bowl crowd. NaQuari Rogers later chipped in with another rushing score as Utah piled on 20 second-half points while holding UCLA to just three. By the Numbers Utah’s statistical dominance was evident across the board. The Utes produced 286 rushing yards compared to UCLA’s 84 and finished with 30 first downs against the Bruins’ 14 . Utah controlled time of possession by more than 15 minutes, underscoring how thoroughly they dictated pace. The Utes finished with 492 total yards and 43 points, while UCLA never threatened beyond its lone second-quarter touchdown. Looking Ahead For Utah, the victory underscored how quickly Jason Beck’s offensive system and Devon Dampier’s skillset can elevate the program. The Utes return home to face Cal Poly on September 6, aiming to build on the momentum of this lopsided road win . UCLA, meanwhile, faces questions after its most lopsided season-opening loss in school history. Head coach DeShaun Foster and quarterback Nico Iamaleava will look to regroup next week at UNLV, but the performance highlighted how much work lies ahead to compete in the Big Ten. Final Takeaway Utah’s 43-10 victory over UCLA was a display of efficiency, balance, and physicality. Dampier emerged as a dynamic leader, the defense shut down every Bruins strength, and the Utes proved themselves ready to compete at the highest level. For UCLA, the debut under Foster and Iamaleava was a sobering reminder that rebuilding requires time, consistency, and sharper execution.

Horned Frogs Steal the Spotlight TCU opened the 2025 season with a statement victory, rolling past North Carolina 48-14 in Chapel Hill. The win spoiled the long-awaited college coaching debut of Bill Belichick, who took over a Tar Heels program that underwent a massive offseason overhaul. What began with promise quickly turned into a rout, as TCU piled up 41 unanswered points and handed UNC its most lopsided season-opening loss in school history. A Fast Start Fizzles for UNC North Carolina struck first with an 83-yard opening drive capped by a short rushing touchdown. The home crowd erupted, and for a brief moment, it looked as though Belichick’s first game on the college sidelines might deliver fireworks. Instead, the early momentum evaporated almost instantly. TCU responded with a quick touchdown drive of its own, and by the end of the first quarter the teams were tied at 7-7. From that point forward, the Horned Frogs seized control. UNC managed just 20 total yards for the remainder of the first half, going into halftime trailing 20-7. Defensive Playmakers Swing Momentum The turning point came midway through the second quarter when TCU’s Bud Clark intercepted a pass and returned it 25 yards for a touchdown. That defensive score ignited the Frogs’ sideline and silenced the Kenan Stadium crowd. In the third quarter, Devean Deal scooped up a fumble and rumbled 37 yards for another touchdown, giving TCU two defensive scores on the night. The Horned Frogs’ defense completely shut down the Tar Heels’ new-look offense. UNC finished just 1 of 10 on third-down conversions and committed three costly turnovers. Barnes, Hoover, and Dwyer Lead the Way On offense, TCU combined balance with explosiveness. Running back Kevorian Barnes delivered the highlight of the night with a 75-yard touchdown sprint on the first play of the second half, extending the lead to 27-7. He finished with 113 rushing yards on just 11 carries. Quarterback Josh Hoover was efficient and decisive, completing 27 of 36 passes for 284 yards and two touchdowns. His favorite target was wide receiver Jordan Dwyer, who hauled in nine receptions for 136 yards and a 27-yard touchdown catch. The Frogs also showcased depth in the run game, with Trent Battle adding a 28-yard rushing score. By the final whistle, TCU had amassed 542 yards of total offense, including 258 on the ground, while averaging more than seven yards per carry. North Carolina’s Struggles The Tar Heels were completely out of rhythm after their initial scoring drive. Starting quarterback Gio Lopez, a transfer from South Alabama, completed just 4 of 10 passes for 70 yards before exiting with a back injury early in the third quarter. His replacement, Max Johnson, provided a small bright spot, completing 9 of 11 passes for 103 yards and a late touchdown in his first action since a devastating leg injury a year earlier. Wideout Jordan Shipp led UNC with four catches for 84 yards, while running back Caleb Hood finished with 31 yards and the team’s lone rushing touchdown. Still, the offense never recovered after the first series, finishing with just 222 total yards. A Night to Forget in Chapel Hill The lopsided loss underscored the challenges facing Belichick in his transition from NFL legend to college head coach. With more than 70 new players added through transfers and recruiting, UNC fielded a roster that looked overmatched and unprepared against a seasoned TCU team. The 48 points allowed were the most in a season opener in Tar Heels history. The game also marked the first time Belichick had ever surrendered that many points as a head coach at any level. Looking Ahead For TCU, the victory extended its winning streak to five games and set an early tone for the season. The Horned Frogs will have a week off before returning home to face Abilene Christian. North Carolina, meanwhile, faces a quick turnaround with a trip to Charlotte. Belichick’s group will need to regroup quickly if it hopes to avoid a repeat of the struggles that marred his much-hyped debut. Final Takeaway TCU’s 48-14 rout of North Carolina was defined by explosive plays, stifling defense, and total control after an early exchange of touchdowns. While the Horned Frogs proved they are poised to contend in 2025, the Tar Heels learned that even with one of football’s greatest minds on the sidelines, rebuilding takes time.

Gamecocks Open with Style in Atlanta South Carolina leaned on its trademark brand of opportunistic football to earn a 24-11 victory over Virginia Tech in the Aflac Kickoff Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The win gave the No. 13 Gamecocks a strong start to their 2025 season and extended head coach Shane Beamer’s streak of season-opening wins. Against the school where his father built a reputation for special teams brilliance, Beamer’s squad showcased defense, turnovers, and explosive returns . Early Breakthrough and Tight First Half The Gamecocks wasted no time finding the end zone. Quarterback LaNorris Sellers capped the opening drive with a 15-yard rushing touchdown, giving South Carolina a lead it never surrendered. Virginia Tech responded with steady defense and timely special teams play. The Hokies cut the margin to 7-5 in the first quarter after recording a safety and later added a field goal to inch closer. John Love connected on a 29-yarder in the second quarter and closed the half with a booming 56-yard kick, the third-longest in program history. That strike sent the Hokies into halftime trailing just 10-8, with momentum seemingly within reach. Swain’s Punt Return Breaks It Open The turning point came early in the fourth quarter. With South Carolina clinging to a narrow 10-8 lead, defensive back Vicari Swain fielded a punt, slipped multiple tacklers, and raced 80 yards down the sideline for a touchdown . The return electrified the Gamecock crowd in attendance and shifted control squarely back to South Carolina. Virginia Tech trimmed the lead to 17-11 with another Love field goal, but the Gamecocks responded quickly. Sellers found Nyck Harbor streaking down the field for a 64-yard touchdown pass, putting the game out of reach. The deep ball was Harbor’s breakout moment, as he finished with three receptions for 99 yards and nearly added another score before replay review overturned a catch . Defensive Standouts South Carolina’s defense was sharp throughout, holding Virginia Tech without an offensive touchdown. Linebacker Fred Johnson anchored the unit with 10 tackles and an interception, while Dylan Stewart added seven stops and a sack . The Gamecocks pressured Hokies quarterback Kyron Drones into mistakes, including two interceptions and several hurried throws. Virginia Tech’s offense managed 221 passing yards from Drones but failed to convert opportunities in the red zone. The Hokies gained just 3.0 yards per carry on the ground and never established a consistent rhythm against South Carolina’s aggressive front. Hokies’ Bright Spots Despite the loss, the Hokies showcased potential in their defensive unit. They recorded four sacks and five tackles for loss, repeatedly exploiting South Carolina’s offensive line issues. Their safety early in the first quarter and the long-range kicking display from Love highlighted their ability to generate points outside of the end zone. Wide receivers Ayden Green, Donavan Greene, and Isaiah Spencer provided explosive plays in the passing game, each hauling in completions of 20 yards or more. Still, turnovers and missed opportunities prevented Virginia Tech from capitalizing when the game was within reach. Offensive Line Concerns for South Carolina While the win was decisive, South Carolina’s offensive line remains a question mark. Sellers was sacked four times, and protection breakdowns led directly to the early safety. The group allowed pressure up the middle and struggled to consistently create rushing lanes for the backfield duo of Oscar Adaway III and Rahsul Faison. The pair combined for 100 yards on 21 carries, but much of that production came after halftime adjustments . Key Numbers Total Score: South Carolina 24, Virginia Tech 11 Passing Yards: Sellers threw for 209 yards and one touchdown. Rushing Game: Adaway III and Faison combined for 100 yards on the ground. Defensive Impact: South Carolina forced two interceptions and allowed no touchdowns. Special Teams: Swain’s 80-yard punt return marked the highlight of the day.  What It Means Going Forward The win reinforced South Carolina’s place as a top-15 program capable of blending defense, special teams, and timely offense to secure victories. Harbor’s emergence as a deep threat and Swain’s impact in the return game gave the Gamecocks explosive options heading into the rest of the season. For Virginia Tech, the performance highlighted both promise and shortcomings. The defense looked strong enough to compete in the ACC, but offensive inefficiency and red-zone struggles must be addressed. With Vanderbilt on deck, the Hokies have an opportunity to rebound quickly. Final Takeaway South Carolina’s 24-11 triumph over Virginia Tech was a textbook example of “Beamerball,” blending special teams fireworks with defensive toughness. While the offense showed inconsistency, the Gamecocks’ ability to force turnovers and produce game-changing plays proved decisive. Virginia Tech fought hard but left too many points on the field, while South Carolina celebrated a season-opening win that showcased both its strengths and areas for growth.

Mustangs Strike Early in Dallas The 2025 season opener at Gerald J. Ford Stadium saw No. 16 SMU take control immediately, defeating East Texas A&M 42-13 on Saturday night. The Mustangs, coming off a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024, needed just three plays to score their first touchdown and never trailed again . Quarterback Kevin Jennings launched a 63-yard strike to Romello Brinson less than a minute into the game, setting the tone for a dominant offensive and defensive performance. By the end of the first quarter, SMU had already built a multi-score advantage, forcing East Texas into a comeback mode they could not sustain . Defensive Scores Provide Separation SMU’s defense proved as decisive as its offense. The Mustangs recorded two interceptions returned for touchdowns , the first time they had accomplished the feat since 2016. Middle linebacker Alexander Kilgore delivered the opening defensive score on a ricocheted interception that he carried 10 yards into the end zone, though he was later sidelined with a foot injury . Safety Ahmaad Moses sealed the game with a spectacular 95-yard interception return early in the second half. Stepping in front of a pass deep in Mustang territory, he sprinted the length of the field untouched to put SMU ahead 28-3. That play not only extinguished East Texas’ best scoring chance of the night but also energized a defense that had already forced three turnovers. Jennings and Brinson Lead the Offense While the defense stole the spotlight, the SMU offense was efficient when needed. Jennings completed 22 of 30 passes for 260 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a 7-yard score. His chemistry with Brinson was clear throughout the night, as the receiver hauled in seven catches for 121 yards, including the early touchdown bomb that broke the game open . The Mustangs controlled the ball for just 21 minutes but still managed 400 yards of total offense. Their quick-strike ability and opportunistic defense made sustained drives unnecessary, especially once they built a comfortable lead before halftime. Lions Show Fight Despite Defeat For East Texas A&M, the matchup represented its first as a full Division I FCS member after transitioning from Division II, where they won a national championship in 2017. The Lions, based only 70 miles from Dallas, faced an uphill challenge against one of the nation’s top-ranked teams but still showed flashes of competitiveness. Quarterback Eric Rodriguez played most of the game and scored the team’s lone touchdown on a 1-yard run. Kicker Ozlo Rigby added field goals of 29 and 32 yards to round out the scoring . Defensively, the Lions forced three turnovers, including an end-zone interception by Kaleb Miles and fumble recoveries created by Cinque Williams and Koby-Sebasyen Creek. Williams also led the team with seven tackles, while the unit as a whole made several key stops inside the red zone . Still, East Texas struggled to finish drives, converting just three of six red-zone opportunities into points. Against an opponent of SMU’s caliber, those missed chances proved costly. Injuries and Key Storylines The Mustangs endured a couple of injury concerns despite the win. Kilgore left the game after his interception return and was later seen on crutches with a protective boot. Wide receiver Jordan Hudson, the team’s top returning target, also exited after a first-quarter elbow injury. Early reports indicated negative X-rays, but their availability for upcoming games remains uncertain. For East Texas, the takeaway was experience gained. Facing a nationally ranked FBS opponent for the second straight season, the Lions showed growth compared to previous outings, particularly in their ability to generate turnovers and sustain drives into scoring territory. Looking Ahead With the victory, SMU improved to 1-0 and turned its attention to a high-profile matchup with former Southwest Conference rival Baylor. The meeting will mark the first time the two programs face off since 2016, adding intrigue to an already meaningful nonconference showdown. East Texas A&M fell to 0-1, marking its third consecutive season-opening loss, though the last two have come against FBS opponents. The Lions now travel to Tallahassee to face Florida State, which is fresh off a major upset of Alabama. Another challenging matchup awaits, but the lessons learned in Dallas could prove valuable moving forward . Final Takeaway SMU’s 42-13 triumph over East Texas A&M was defined by explosive plays on both sides of the ball. Jennings and Brinson provided the offensive highlights, while Moses and Kilgore delivered defensive touchdowns that broke the game wide open. For East Texas, the scoreline may sting, but the performance reflected progress in the early stages of their Division I journey. As the Mustangs set their sights on bigger goals in 2025, the season opener reaffirmed their reputation as one of the nation’s most dynamic programs, while the Lions gained valuable experience that could serve them well as their schedule continues.

Ducks Start Fast at Autzen Stadium No. 7 Oregon began its 2025 season in dominant fashion, overpowering Montana State 59-13 at Autzen Stadium. Behind new starting quarterback Dante Moore and an influx of talented freshmen, the Ducks showcased both depth and explosiveness in a game that set the tone for their Big Ten title defense. Oregon wasted no time asserting control. Less than two minutes into the game, Jayden Limar sprinted 16 yards down the sideline for the opening touchdown. From there, the Ducks’ offense poured it on, building a 38-3 halftime lead that left little doubt about the outcome. Moore’s Confident Debut After backing up Dillon Gabriel last season, Moore stepped into the starting role with poise and precision. He threw for 213 yards and three touchdowns, spreading the ball to a variety of receivers. Ten different players recorded catches, and each of Moore’s touchdown passes went to a different target. Among the highlights was a 20-yard strike to Kenyon Sadiq in the first quarter that extended Oregon’s lead to 14-0. Later, he connected with Malik Benson on a red-zone score and capped his night with another touchdown pass before halftime. Moore’s ability to distribute effectively reflected both his growth as a quarterback and the offensive depth surrounding him. Davison’s Record-Breaking Day True freshman Jordon Davison delivered a historic performance in his first collegiate game. He rushed for 26 yards and scored three touchdowns, becoming the first Oregon freshman ever to record three rushing scores in a season opener. His touchdowns came from 2, 8, and 1 yard out, demonstrating his ability to convert in short-yardage situations. Davison’s performance underscored the youth movement within Oregon’s roster, with multiple freshmen and redshirt freshmen seeing significant action. Balanced Offensive Attack The Ducks spread the workload across the roster. In addition to Limar’s opening touchdown and Davison’s trio of scores, Benson led receivers with 51 yards and a touchdown. Oregon’s offensive line provided consistent protection, keeping the quarterback upright and creating lanes for the backs. Altogether, Oregon racked up points on its first five drives, including a 23-yard field goal from Atticus Sappington. By halftime, the Ducks had scored touchdowns on four different types of plays—rushing, passing, special teams, and defense—highlighting their versatility. Defensive Pressure and Depth Oregon’s defense made life difficult for Montana State quarterback Justin Lamson, who finished with 198 passing yards but was pressured throughout. The Bobcats, who entered the season as defending Big Sky champions, managed just three points in the first half. The Ducks rotated heavily on defense, giving opportunities to redshirt freshmen and newcomers. Players like Ify Obidegwu, Brandon Finney, and Aaron Flowers earned starting roles in the secondary, while others, including Jeremiah McClellan and Cooper Perry, contributed meaningful snaps. The defensive front also stifled Montana State’s run game, limiting them to one short-yardage touchdown late in the contest. Montana State’s Effort For Montana State, the opener provided both challenges and bright spots. Wide receiver Taco Dowler set a career high with 12 catches for 107 yards, proving to be Lamson’s most reliable target. Kicker Myles Sansted connected on a pair of 42-yard field goals, and Adam Jones scored a rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter. Still, the Bobcats’ attempt to replace former standout quarterback Tommy Mellott remains a work in progress. Against a top-10 opponent, their offensive line struggled to contain Oregon’s pass rush, and their defense was unable to slow the Ducks’ balanced attack. Youth Movement on Display Perhaps the biggest takeaway for Oregon was the performance of its underclassmen. Head coach Dan Lanning has emphasized that ability, not age, dictates playing time, and Saturday’s game was proof. True freshmen and redshirt freshmen contributed from the opening snap, helping build the early lead rather than only seeing action in garbage time. This wave of young talent—alongside veterans—suggests that Oregon’s ceiling in 2025 remains high. With Big Ten play looming, the Ducks’ ability to blend experience with emerging stars could prove decisive in their pursuit of another playoff berth. Looking Ahead For Oregon, the lopsided victory extended their home nonconference winning streak to 35 games and reinforced their preseason top-10 billing. The Ducks will host Oklahoma State next Saturday, a matchup that will offer a stronger test before conference play. Montana State returns home to face reigning FCS champion South Dakota State. The Bobcats will look to regroup and refine their offense against a more familiar level of competition. Final Takeaway The Ducks’ 59-13 triumph over Montana State was not just a routine opening win—it was a showcase of depth, youth, and dominance. Moore’s steady hand at quarterback, Davison’s historic debut, and the defense’s relentless pressure provided a complete performance. For Oregon, the path back to the College Football Playoff remains wide open.

Bulldogs Extend Home Dominance Georgia opened its 2025 campaign with a commanding 45-7 victory over Marshall, extending its home winning streak to 32 games, the longest active streak in the FBS. The Bulldogs improved to 102-27-3 all-time in season openers and 10-0 in such games under head coach Kirby Smart. The victory also highlighted Georgia’s continued dominance between the hedges, where they are now 51-4 under Smart. Saturday’s game marked only the second all-time meeting between Georgia and Marshall, with the Bulldogs improving to 2-0 in the series. Stockton Sparks the Offense Quarterback Gunner Stockton delivered a breakout performance in his first full season as Georgia’s starter. The redshirt junior accounted for four total touchdowns, rushing for two and throwing for two more. He completed 14 of 24 passes for 190 yards and added 73 rushing yards, making him the first Georgia quarterback to lead the team in rushing since Justin Fields in 2018. Stockton’s poise was evident from the opening drives. He capped an 11-play, 72-yard drive with a 1-yard keeper on fourth down to give Georgia a 14-0 lead. Later, he added a second rushing score following a blocked punt that set up the Bulldogs at the Marshall 20-yard line. His two passing touchdowns came on a 47-yard strike to Zachariah Branch and a short red-zone toss to London Humphreys. Branch Makes an Immediate Impact USC transfer Zachariah Branch quickly made his presence felt, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability. The junior finished with three receptions for 95 yards, including a 47-yard catch-and-run touchdown on Georgia’s opening drive of the second half. Branch also contributed on special teams with three punt returns and added versatility to Georgia’s offensive scheme, demonstrating why he was one of the most highly touted transfers in the country. Defense Stifles the Herd Georgia’s defense suffocated Marshall throughout most of the game. The Thundering Herd were limited to 207 total yards and just one touchdown, which came late in the fourth quarter after the outcome was already decided. The Bulldogs’ defense held Marshall to 40 total yards in the first half and forced three three-and-outs to start the game. Linebacker Raylen Wilson and safety Zion Branch each tallied a career-high seven tackles, while defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton forced two fumbles and added a sack. The shutout bid ended with just over 10 minutes remaining, when Marshall strung together an 84-yard drive keyed by two long completions before scoring from a yard out. Still, Georgia’s defensive unit consistently controlled the line of scrimmage and never allowed Marshall to establish rhythm. Special Teams Shine Special teams played a crucial role in Georgia’s win. In the second quarter, KJ Bolden blocked a punt that was recovered at the Marshall 20. Three plays later, Stockton extended the lead with an 11-yard touchdown run. Kicker Peyton Woodring contributed nine points, connecting on a 43-yard field goal and converting all six of his extra-point attempts. With All-America punter Brett Thorson sidelined due to injury, Drew Miller stepped in and delivered a strong performance, averaging 48 yards per punt with two placed inside the 20. Contributions from New Faces Georgia also showcased its depth with contributions from young players. True freshmen Juan Gaston and Ethan Barbour started on the offensive line and at tight end, respectively, while redshirt freshman quarterback Ryan Puglisi saw his first action in the second half. Puglisi connected with freshman Elyiss Williams for a 23-yard touchdown, marking Williams’ first career reception and score. These performances highlighted Georgia’s ability to reload with fresh talent while maintaining its championship-level expectations. Marshall’s Struggles For Marshall, the loss marked the debut of head coach Tony Gibson, who faces the task of reshaping a roster that featured 74 new players entering the season. The Thundering Herd cycled through three quarterbacks but failed to find consistent success. Zion Turner provided a spark late, completing six of seven passes for 100 yards to set up the lone touchdown. Defensively, Cam Smith, Kerion Martin, and Caleb Clark-Glover each posted seven tackles, while punter Nathan Totten averaged over 45 yards per kick to help flip field position when possible. Looking Ahead Georgia’s 45-7 win reinforced its place among the nation’s elite and provided momentum heading into a September 6 matchup with Austin Peay. With Stockton demonstrating dual-threat ability, Branch providing explosiveness, and a defense that remains suffocating, the Bulldogs appear ready to contend once again. Marshall, meanwhile, will regroup for its home opener against Missouri State. With conference play ahead, the Herd will focus on building continuity at quarterback and shoring up offensive execution. Final Takeaway The Bulldogs’ season opener was a complete performance across offense, defense, and special teams. Stockton’s breakout game, Branch’s debut, and a dominant defense powered Georgia to a 45-7 victory that extended the program’s home dominance. For Marshall, the night served as a reminder of the gap between rebuilding programs and established national contenders. While the Herd showed flashes late, Georgia’s depth, discipline, and playmaking proved overwhelming from start to finish.

Lions Start Fast at Beaver Stadium Penn State began its highly anticipated 2025 season with a commanding 46-11 victory over Nevada in front of more than 106,000 fans at Beaver Stadium. The win extended the Nittany Lions’ strong track record in season openers and provided an early glimpse of a team aiming to contend for the College Football Playoff. From the opening possession, Penn State established control. Running back Nicholas Singleton capped the first drive with a short touchdown run, and the defense forced turnovers on Nevada’s first two series to set the tone. By halftime, the Lions built a 27-3 lead, overwhelming the Wolf Pack on both sides of the ball .  Allar’s Steady Command Quarterback Drew Allar, who chose to return for another year rather than declare for the NFL Draft, delivered a sharp season debut. He completed 22 of 26 passes for 217 yards and a touchdown. His poise and efficiency allowed Penn State to sustain long drives and keep Nevada’s defense on the field. Allar’s highlight came late in the first half when he connected with Kyron Hudson on a 31-yard touchdown strike. The score capped an eight-play drive just before halftime, stretching the lead to 27-3 and firmly putting momentum in Penn State’s favor . Backup quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer entered in the fourth quarter and recorded his first career touchdown on a 6-yard rush, adding depth to an already dominant offensive showing. Ground Game Finds Balance The Lions’ rushing attack looked as formidable as ever. Singleton scored twice on short-yardage plunges, while fellow back Kaytron Allen led the team with 43 rushing yards and added a 13-yard touchdown in the second quarter. The offensive line consistently created running lanes, helping Penn State pile up 438 total yards of offense. Ryan Barker contributed with four field goals, tying a personal best, including a 39-yarder to close the third quarter. His reliability ensured that nearly every Penn State possession ended with points. Defense Forces Mistakes While the offense was efficient, the defense stole the spotlight. Penn State forced three turnovers, including two fumbles by defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton. He added a sack, 2.5 tackles for loss, and a pass breakup in a dominant outing. Zane Durant also intercepted a pass, marking his first career pick. The Lions held Nevada to just 203 yards of offense, including 78 on the ground. Fifty of those rushing yards came on the Wolf Pack’s final possession, long after the outcome had been decided . Linebacker Amare Campbell led the team with six tackles, while the defensive front consistently pressured Nevada quarterback Chubba Purdy, limiting his options in the passing game. Nevada’s Lone Bright Spots Nevada managed a field goal in the second quarter and finally found the end zone late in the fourth. Backup quarterback AJ Bianco connected with Marcus Bellon on a 9-yard touchdown pass with 25 seconds left, followed by a successful two-point conversion . Aside from that final drive, however, Nevada struggled to maintain momentum. The Wolf Pack’s first three possessions ended in a fumble, interception, and punt, burying them in an early deficit they could never escape. Setting the Tone for the Season The 46-11 win may not move the national needle as much as Ohio State’s victory over top-ranked Texas, but it reaffirmed Penn State’s place among the nation’s elite. The combination of Allar’s composure, a balanced rushing attack, and a defense led by Dennis-Sutton gives the Lions a strong foundation as the season unfolds. For Nevada, the loss underscored the gap between rebuilding programs and established contenders. The Wolf Pack will aim to regroup quickly when they return home to face Sacramento State. Looking Ahead Penn State will continue its non-conference slate with a home game against Florida International. With Ohio State’s high-profile win over Texas, the Nittany Lions know style points will matter as the season progresses. Maintaining focus against lesser opponents will be key to keeping their playoff aspirations intact. Final Takeaway No. 2 Penn State’s 46-11 victory over Nevada was everything the program could have hoped for to begin its season. Efficient quarterback play, a punishing running game, opportunistic defense, and reliable special teams combined to produce a dominant performance. For a fan base hungry for a national title, this opener served notice: the Nittany Lions are locked in and ready to contend.

Buckeyes Make a Statement In one of the most anticipated matchups of opening weekend, No. 3 Ohio State toppled top-ranked Texas 14-7 at Ohio Stadium, spoiling the debut of Arch Manning as the Longhorns’ full-time starter. The game marked just the fourth time in history that the defending national champion faced the preseason No. 1 team in the opener, and the Buckeyes used their defense and efficiency to set the tone for their 2025 campaign. Defensive Battle Early The first quarter was marked by offensive struggles on both sides. Texas moved the ball into Ohio State territory on its first possession but turned it over on downs. The Buckeyes’ opening drive also stalled on a fourth-down attempt, leaving the scoreboard empty through the opening 15 minutes. Ohio State eventually broke through midway through the second quarter. A pair of Longhorn penalties extended the drive, setting up CJ Donaldson Jr. for a 1-yard touchdown plunge that capped a grinding 13-play, 87-yard march. The score stood as the only points of the first half, giving the Buckeyes a narrow 7-0 advantage at the break. Sayin Delivers in Debut Freshman quarterback Julian Sayin made his first collegiate start for Ohio State and was tasked with managing the game against a top-ranked opponent. He completed 13 of 20 passes for 126 yards, and his biggest play came early in the fourth quarter. Sayin connected with Carnell Tate for a 40-yard touchdown, doubling the Buckeyes’ lead to 14-0. The pass was Ohio State’s longest completion of the afternoon and gave them the cushion they needed against a Texas team still searching for rhythm. Although the Buckeyes’ offensive approach was conservative, Sayin avoided mistakes and executed when necessary. His ability to protect the football and extend drives allowed the Ohio State defense to dictate the flow of the game. Manning and Texas Struggle For Texas, the spotlight was on Arch Manning in his first game as the full-time starter. Manning finished 17-of-30 for 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception, though most of his production came late in the contest. He was under pressure for much of the night, as Ohio State’s defensive front consistently collapsed the pocket. The Longhorns had opportunities but came up short in critical situations, converting just 1 of 5 fourth-down attempts. Their most glaring miss came in the third quarter, when Manning was stuffed on a quarterback sneak at the 1-yard line. Another red-zone failure occurred in the fourth, when a pass breakup denied Texas a chance to close the gap before Sayin’s touchdown strike extended the Buckeyes’ lead. Texas Rallies Late The Longhorns finally broke through with 3:28 left in regulation. Manning connected with Parker Livingstone on a 32-yard touchdown to cut the deficit to 14-7, sparking hopes of a dramatic finish. The Texas defense forced a punt to give Manning one final opportunity, starting from his own 15-yard line. He managed to move the ball to midfield, but a fourth-and-5 completion came up two yards short, ending the Longhorns’ comeback bid. Key Performances Ohio State’s defense was the story of the night. Under new coordinator Matt Patricia, the Buckeyes held Texas scoreless for three quarters and delivered two critical red-zone stops. Davison Igbinosun led the team with 10 tackles, while Jermaine Mathews Jr. intercepted Manning in the third quarter to set up Sayin’s eventual touchdown pass. CJ Donaldson Jr. paced the Ohio State rushing attack with 67 yards on 19 carries, while Tate finished with 49 yards on two catches, including the decisive touchdown. Jeremiah Smith added six receptions for 43 yards, providing a reliable option for Sayin. Texas was led by Manning’s late production and CJ Baxter’s physical running, but the offense lacked consistency. The Longhorns’ 11-game road winning streak came to an end, with Ohio State’s defense keeping them in check throughout. What It Means The win reinforced Ohio State’s position as a legitimate contender to repeat as national champions. With Sayin proving capable in his debut and a defense that smothered one of the nation’s most hyped quarterbacks, the Buckeyes showed balance and resilience. For Texas, the defeat raised questions about execution and decision-making in critical moments. Manning will be expected to grow quickly into his role, but the inability to finish drives cost the Longhorns dearly. Their path to a College Football Playoff berth remains intact, but improvements are needed to match lofty preseason expectations. Final Takeaway Ohio State’s 14-7 win over Texas was not about offensive fireworks but about discipline, defense, and timely execution. The Buckeyes protected their home field and made an emphatic statement to start the season. For Texas, it was a humbling reminder that even with star power at quarterback, winning on the road against an elite defense requires more than hype—it requires precision under pressure

Vols Start Fast in Atlanta The Tennessee Volunteers began their 2025 campaign in dominant fashion, defeating Syracuse 45-26 in the Aflac Kickoff Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The win extended Tennessee’s all-time series lead to 4-0 against the Orange and gave head coach Josh Heupel’s team early momentum heading into the new season. From the opening drive, the Volunteers controlled both tempo and execution. A 34-yard field goal on the first possession gave Tennessee an early edge, and the offense quickly found the end zone on its next series with a short touchdown run by Peyton Lewis. The defense joined the scoring effort later in the quarter when Nathan Robinson forced a fumble that Colton Hood returned 22 yards for a touchdown. After one quarter, Tennessee led 17-0. Aguilar Shines in Debut Quarterback Joey Aguilar wasted no time establishing himself as the new leader of Tennessee’s offense. Making his debut, Aguilar completed 16 of 28 passes for 247 yards and three touchdowns. His highlight came in the second quarter, when he connected with Braylon Staley on a 73-yard touchdown strike that restored Tennessee’s momentum after Syracuse had scored its first points of the game. Aguilar later added a 7-yard touchdown pass to Star Thomas in the third quarter and capped his afternoon with a 2-yard scoring toss to Miles Kitselman in the fourth. He also contributed on the ground, recording 34 rushing yards on six carries. Balanced Offensive Attack The Volunteers showed balance on offense, finishing with 493 total yards split almost evenly between passing (247) and rushing (246). Thomas led the ground game with 92 rushing yards, while DeSean Bishop added 82 yards and a late first-half touchdown. Lewis, who scored Tennessee’s first touchdown, added another short-yardage presence to the backfield. At receiver, Staley was the standout with 95 yards and a touchdown, while Chris Brazzell II provided consistency with five catches for 62 yards. Tennessee’s offensive line created opportunities throughout the contest, though it was missing highly touted freshman David Sanders Jr., who sat out with an injury. Syracuse’s Response Despite falling behind 17-0 in the opening quarter, Syracuse battled to keep the game competitive. Quarterback Steve Angeli, in his first start, threw for 247 yards and a touchdown on 23 completions. He was pressured frequently, taking five sacks, but managed to move the ball effectively at times. Running back Yasin Willis kept the Orange in striking distance with 91 rushing yards and three touchdowns. His first score cut the deficit to 17-7 in the second quarter, and he later added touchdowns in both the third and fourth quarters. His effort narrowed the margin to 38-26 with just under 12 minutes remaining, but Syracuse failed on the ensuing conversion attempt, preventing them from building further momentum. Defense and Key Plays While the Tennessee offense was steady, the defense provided crucial plays to widen the gap. Beyond Hood’s first-quarter fumble return, linebacker Jeremiah Telander intercepted a tipped pass early in the second half, which Aguilar quickly converted into a touchdown. The Vols’ defense finished with five sacks and seven tackles for loss, consistently disrupting Angeli and limiting Syracuse’s downfield passing opportunities. Junior linebacker Arion Carter led the unit with nine tackles, including a sack. Jalen McMurray and Joshua Josephs each added seven stops with one sack apiece, contributing to a defensive effort that kept Syracuse from mounting a serious comeback after Tennessee built its lead. Game Flow and Turning Points The second quarter proved to be the game’s most decisive stretch. After Syracuse narrowed the score to 17-7, Aguilar’s 73-yard touchdown pass pushed the lead back to double digits. When the Orange cut the deficit again to 24-14, Bishop responded with a 47-yard burst that set up his own touchdown run. Tennessee entered halftime with a 31-14 advantage and never allowed Syracuse closer than 12 points the rest of the way. Even as Syracuse closed to 38-26 in the fourth quarter, Tennessee’s nine-play, 54-yard drive capped by Aguilar’s third touchdown pass sealed the outcome. The Volunteers finished a perfect 5-for-5 in the red zone, underlining their efficiency. Looking Ahead The win gave Tennessee a strong start to the season, showcasing both offensive firepower and defensive opportunism. Aguilar’s composure in his debut, paired with a balanced rushing attack, highlighted the depth of Heupel’s roster. The Volunteers now turn their attention to their home opener against East Tennessee State, where they will look to build on their 1-0 start. Syracuse, meanwhile, faces a challenging road ahead. Their schedule includes matchups with Clemson, Notre Dame, and Miami, all ranked in the top 10. For the Orange, finding ways to protect Angeli and limit defensive breakdowns will be critical if they hope to improve on their opener. Final Takeaway No. 24 Tennessee’s 45-26 victory over Syracuse was a demonstration of readiness and balance. Aguilar proved to be a capable leader in his debut, while the Volunteers’ defense provided momentum-shifting plays that Syracuse couldn’t overcome. For Tennessee, it was the type of season-opening performance that builds confidence for bigger tests to come. For Syracuse, it was a reminder of the work required to compete with ranked opposition in a demanding 2025 schedule

Seminoles Make Statement in Season Opener In one of the most shocking results of opening weekend, Florida State delivered a 31-17 victory over No. 8 Alabama at Doak Campbell Stadium. The win not only snapped Alabama’s 23-game streak of season-opening victories but also signaled a potential turning point for a Seminoles program that struggled through a 2-10 campaign just a year ago. Led by transfer quarterback Tommy Castellanos and a rejuvenated rushing attack, Florida State seized control early and never allowed the Crimson Tide to recover. The victory also marked the Seminoles’ first win over a ranked opponent since 2023, when they defeated Louisville in the ACC Championship Game. Ground Game Fuels Seminoles The most glaring difference between Florida State’s dismal 2024 season and its opener this year was the running game. Under new offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, the Seminoles powered their way to 230 rushing yards, averaging nearly five yards per carry. Castellanos led the charge with 78 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, while teammates Micahi Danzy, Caziah Holmes, and Gavin Sawchuk also found the end zone. Florida State’s offensive line consistently won battles at the line of scrimmage, creating holes that kept drives alive and sustained long possessions. This ground dominance came against an Alabama defense expected to be one of the SEC’s most physical units, making the performance even more impressive. Alabama Struggles to Adjust Alabama opened the game with an 8-minute, 50-second drive that ended in a touchdown pass from new starting quarterback Ty Simpson to tight end Josh Cuevas. However, the Crimson Tide offense sputtered after that opening series, managing just 10 points the rest of the way. Simpson finished with 254 passing yards and two touchdowns, but Alabama mustered only 87 rushing yards on 29 attempts. Wide receiver Germie Bernard was a bright spot, hauling in eight receptions for a career-best 146 yards. Still, the lack of balance and consistency left the Crimson Tide unable to mount a comeback. Defensively, Alabama struggled to contain Florida State’s option looks and quarterback runs. The Seminoles repeatedly exploited gaps in pursuit, while Malzahn’s play-calling kept the Tide off balance with a mix of designed runs and timely play-action passes. Turning Points and Key Stops Florida State’s defense matched the intensity of its offense, holding Alabama to 6-of-17 on third downs and delivering three stops on fourth-down attempts. Each of those turnovers on downs shifted momentum further toward the Seminoles, particularly the final one with just under six minutes to play. Another critical moment came in the third quarter when Castellanos connected with Jaylin Lucas on a 64-yard pass play that set up a short touchdown run. That sequence gave Florida State a 24-7 lead and further deflated Alabama’s sideline. Even when Alabama trimmed the deficit to 24-17 early in the fourth quarter, the Seminoles answered immediately with a 75-yard drive capped by Sawchuk’s 14-yard touchdown. That score restored a two-possession cushion and effectively sealed the victory. Broader Implications For Alabama, the loss raises significant concerns. Head coach Kalen DeBoer fell to 6-4 against unranked teams since taking over the program, a stark contrast to the dominance displayed by Nick Saban in similar matchups. The Crimson Tide’s defensive issues that surfaced last season persisted, and their inability to control the line of scrimmage highlighted vulnerabilities that future SEC opponents are sure to test. Florida State, on the other hand, may finally have found its spark under head coach Mike Norvell. The Seminoles showcased physicality, discipline, and creativity on offense—qualities absent a year ago. For Castellanos, who transferred from Boston College, it was a validation of his ability to command an offense on a big stage. What Comes Next Alabama will look to rebound quickly in its home opener against Louisiana-Monroe, needing to correct defensive lapses and establish a more consistent run game. With a challenging SEC schedule ahead, the Tide must improve rapidly to avoid slipping further in the national conversation. Florida State, now 1-0, hosts East Texas A&M in what should be a more manageable contest. The Seminoles will aim to build on their newfound momentum and possibly enter the AP Top 25 when the next rankings are released. Final Takeaway Florida State’s 31-17 victory over Alabama was more than just an upset; it was a declaration that the Seminoles are no longer a program in disarray. With a dominant rushing attack, opportunistic defense, and a quarterback capable of making big plays, Florida State delivered a performance that reignited hope for its fan base.  For Alabama, the defeat was a sobering reminder that the Nick Saban era of near-invincibility is over. Whether the Crimson Tide can regain its footing will determine how far they can go in 2025, but for now, the Seminoles’ triumph stands as one of the defining moments of college football’s opening weekend.

A Clash of Ranked Teams The opening weekend of the college volleyball season delivered a dramatic matchup between two nationally ranked programs as No. 16 Florida rallied to defeat No. 3 Pitt 3-2 in the AVCA First Serve Showcase at Pinnacle Bank Arena. The Gators, rebounding from a season-opening loss, overcame deficits in both sets one and three to secure a signature early-season victory over a top-five opponent. The result marked Florida’s first win against Pitt since 1998 and its first victory over a top-three program in nearly two years. For Pitt, the narrow defeat capped off a challenging weekend that saw them fall to 0-2 despite strong individual performances. Pitt’s Early Control The Panthers opened the match with confidence, dictating the tempo and capitalizing on early Florida miscues. Behind steady passing and the offensive firepower of Olivia Babcock, Pitt built a 20-15 lead in the opening set and closed it out 25-19. The Panthers controlled the net defensively as well, registering four blocks to limit Florida’s attackers. Pitt also looked strong in the third set, bouncing back from a lopsided second set loss. With balanced contributions from multiple hitters and aggressive serving, they jumped out to a 10-4 lead and never allowed Florida to mount a serious threat. The 25-15 set victory gave the Panthers a 2-1 match lead, putting them one set away from victory. Florida’s Response Florida, however, showed resilience. The Gators dominated the second set 25-15 with efficient hitting and tough serving that disrupted Pitt’s rhythm. They delivered a similar response in the fourth, clawing back from an early deficit to force extended points. Florida edged out the set 26-24, capitalizing on timely blocks and clutch kills that evened the match at two sets apiece. The decisive momentum shift came in the fifth set. Florida jumped ahead 8-5, but Pitt fought back to level the score at 13-13. With the match hanging in the balance, Florida’s front line produced back-to-back kills to seal the 15-13 set win and complete the comeback. Standout Performances Despite the loss, Pitt had several standout individual efforts. Olivia Babcock recorded her 1,000th career kill and finished the match with 25 kills, 13 digs, three blocks, and three aces. Freshman libero Izzy Masten anchored the defense with 18 digs, while setter Brooke Mosher posted 44 assists along with 12 digs for her first double-double of the season. Middle blocker Ryla Jones contributed a career-best 10 blocks, and Dagmar Mourits added a double-double with 11 kills and 10 digs. For Florida, redshirt sophomore outside hitter Jordyn Byrd delivered a career-high 23 kills , earning AVCA Player of the Match honors. Setter Alexis Stucky ran a balanced offense with 44 assists and added 11 digs for her second double-double of the weekend. Sophomore Jaela Auguste provided a spark at the net with a career-high eight blocks and four aces. Freshman libero Lily Hayes paced the Gators’ backcourt with 21 digs, while multiple attackers chipped in at least eight kills as Florida spread its offense across the rotation. Statistical Breakdown The numbers highlighted the back-and-forth nature of the contest. Florida finished with 60 team kills on a .204 hitting percentage, while Pitt managed 68 kills but hit just .186 overall. The Panthers held a slight edge in total blocks, 14-13, but the Gators were steadier at the service line, producing eight aces compared to Pitt’s five. Momentum swings defined the five-set battle. Pitt hit .393 in the opening frame and .152 in the third, showing dominance in their set wins. Florida countered with .378 hitting efficiency in the fourth and a .320 clip in the decisive fifth, underscoring their ability to finish strong under pressure. What It Means Going Forward For Florida, the victory served as validation for a team in transition under new leadership. Not only did the Gators secure a top-three upset, but they also showcased depth, resilience, and balance with contributions from both veterans and younger players. Their ability to rally after falling behind twice highlighted the group’s composure and growth potential. For Pitt, the weekend results signal areas needing improvement. While individual performances stood out, the Panthers struggled to maintain consistency and capitalize on opportunities to close out matches. Still, with Babcock continuing her ascent as one of the nation’s premier hitters and several players recording career-best performances, the pieces remain in place for a rebound once adjustments are made. Final Takeaway The AVCA First Serve Showcase gave fans an early-season clash that lived up to the hype. Florida’s 3-2 triumph over Pitt demonstrated the razor-thin margins between elite programs and underscored the importance of execution in key moments. For the Gators, it was a milestone win that could serve as a springboard for the season ahead. For the Panthers, it was a reminder that early setbacks can provide valuable lessons as the year unfolds.

Becht Leads the Cyclones in Ireland The Aer Lingus Classic in Dublin offered an early-season test for both Iowa State and Kansas State, and it was the Cyclones who rose to the occasion. Behind a versatile performance from quarterback Rocco Becht, No. 22 Iowa State defeated No. 17 Kansas State 24-21, opening their season with a statement victory on international soil. Becht passed for 183 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score, proving to be the deciding factor in a tightly contested matchup. His command of the offense in critical situations gave the Cyclones just enough cushion to fend off a late Kansas State rally. A Back-and-Forth First Half The game began with both offenses struggling in wet conditions. Kansas State turned the ball over twice in the opening half and failed on a fourth-down attempt, while Iowa State also committed two turnovers. Neither team was able to fully establish rhythm, but Iowa State’s opportunistic play put them ahead early. Becht connected with Dominic Overby for a 23-yard touchdown in the first quarter, establishing a 7-0 lead. Kansas State responded with a 10-yard rushing score from quarterback Avery Johnson, leveling the contest before halftime. By the break, the scoreline reflected the defensive tone of the first two quarters, as neither side was able to gain a decisive edge. Explosive Third and Fourth Quarters The second half saw both teams begin to find offensive momentum. Becht struck again late in the third quarter, this time hitting Brett Eskildsen for a 24-yard touchdown in the corner of the end zone, restoring Iowa State’s advantage. Kansas State refused to back down, with Johnson engineering a quick drive capped by a 37-yard touchdown pass to Jayce Brown early in the fourth quarter. The game was tied at 14 before Iowa State capitalized on a short field after a Kansas State turnover on downs. The Cyclones punched in a seven-yard rushing score from Becht, stretching their lead to 24-14 with just over six minutes remaining. Kansas State kept the contest alive with a 65-yard strike from Johnson to Jerand Bradley, narrowing the deficit to three points. However, Iowa State’s late-game execution, including a critical fourth-and-3 conversion deep in Wildcats territory, allowed the Cyclones to run out the clock and secure the win. Becht’s Breakout Performance Becht finished the day completing 14 of 28 passes for 183 yards and two scores, adding a rushing touchdown that ultimately became the game-winner. His ability to mix the pass with designed runs gave the Kansas State defense trouble throughout the second half. The Cyclones’ ground game was led by Carson Hansen, who carried 16 times for 71 yards. Hansen’s late-game physicality wore down the Wildcats’ defensive front, ensuring Iowa State maintained possession when it mattered most. Johnson’s Big Numbers for Kansas State Despite the loss, Kansas State’s Avery Johnson put up strong numbers. He threw for 273 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for another score. His deep-ball accuracy, highlighted by the 65-yard connection with Bradley, kept the Wildcats within striking distance. Still, turnovers and missed opportunities early in the contest ultimately proved costly. Kansas State’s running game took a major hit after starting running back Dylan Edwards exited in the first quarter with an ankle injury on a muffed punt. Edwards never returned, leaving the Wildcats thin in the backfield. Joe Jackson stepped in with 51 yards on 12 carries, but Kansas State was unable to fully replace Edwards’ explosiveness. Injury Outlook and Impact Reports following the game confirmed Edwards’ ankle injury is not season-ending, but he is expected to miss time, including the Wildcats’ upcoming game against North Dakota. His absence shifts more responsibility onto Johnson and Jackson, raising questions about Kansas State’s offensive balance heading into the next stretch of the season. For Iowa State, the win marked their fifth victory over Kansas State in the past six seasons, underscoring their recent dominance in the rivalry. More importantly, the result gave the Cyclones momentum heading into their home opener against South Dakota. The Bigger Picture For Iowa State, the triumph in Dublin is more than just an opening-week win. It showcased a quarterback capable of leading in clutch moments, a defense that forced key mistakes, and an overall resilience that will be essential in the Big 12. At 1-0, the Cyclones established themselves as a contender with aspirations beyond conference play. Kansas State, now 0-1, faces early adversity. The loss of Edwards and a disappointing finish in a game that was within reach raises questions about depth and execution. With matchups against North Dakota and Army on the horizon, the Wildcats must regroup quickly to avoid falling further behind in the Big 12 race. Final Takeaway The Aer Lingus Classic delivered on drama and intensity, with Iowa State edging out Kansas State 24-21 in a contest defined by clutch plays and momentum swings. Becht’s poise under pressure, combined with Iowa State’s ability to capitalize on Kansas State’s miscues, set the tone for a promising season. For the Wildcats, the road forward will depend on how quickly they adjust without their lead running back and how effectively they respond to the early setback.

The Valkyries delivered another statement win, defeating Phoenix 98-91 in a contest filled with pace, intensity, and momentum swings. From the opening tip, both teams showcased their offensive firepower, but it was the Valkyries’ ability to control the tempo late in the game that secured the hard-fought victory. Fast-Paced Opening The first quarter set the tone for what would become a high-scoring battle. The Valkyries, wearing their sharp black uniforms with purple trim, came out aggressive on both ends of the floor. Quick ball movement and decisive shot-making allowed them to build an early lead. Phoenix, in their crisp white jerseys accented with orange and violet, answered with perimeter shooting and strong finishes inside, keeping the game close. By the end of the opening frame, the score remained tight, with neither team able to pull away. Valkyries Push Ahead In the second quarter, the Valkyries began to establish control. Their transition game was on full display as they turned defensive stops into fast-break opportunities. Crisp passing and efficient shooting allowed them to stretch the lead into double digits midway through the period. Phoenix, however, refused to fold. A late scoring run sparked by aggressive drives to the rim cut into the deficit, leaving the Valkyries with only a narrow advantage at halftime. Phoenix Fights Back The third quarter was where Phoenix made their strongest push. Adjusting their defensive schemes, they slowed down the Valkyries’ rhythm and forced contested shots. Meanwhile, Phoenix found success with a balanced attack that blended outside shooting with second-chance opportunities off the glass. The scoreboard reflected the intensity as Phoenix clawed back, erasing the earlier gap and briefly taking the lead.  Despite the pressure, the Valkyries showed resilience. Key defensive plays and a composed offensive stretch allowed them to regain momentum just before the end of the third, setting up a thrilling final quarter. Fourth-Quarter Surge The decisive moments came in the final 10 minutes. With the game hanging in the balance, the Valkyries leaned on their defensive presence and efficient shot selection. Timely steals led to fast-break baskets, while strong interior play prevented Phoenix from regaining control. The pace quickened, and the crowd roared as both teams traded baskets, but the Valkyries’ composure down the stretch made the difference. Phoenix continued to push, closing the gap to just a few points in the final minutes, but the Valkyries executed flawlessly on both ends of the floor. A late scoring burst and disciplined clock management helped them hold off Phoenix’s comeback bid, sealing the 98-91 win. Team Performances For the Valkyries, this victory was another display of their depth and versatility. Their offense excelled not only in transition but also in half-court sets, with multiple players stepping up to contribute at key moments. Defensively, their ability to force turnovers and protect the paint proved vital in holding Phoenix at bay. Phoenix, despite the loss, showcased resilience and determination. Their offensive balance and second-half adjustments nearly turned the game in their favor. The white-and-orange uniforms stood tall against the Valkyries’ relentless defense, and their ability to keep pace until the final buzzer highlighted their potential as a playoff threat. Implications Moving Forward The win pushes the Valkyries higher in the standings and further cements their reputation as one of the toughest teams to face this season. Their ability to remain poised under pressure and close out tight games continues to set them apart. For Phoenix, this narrow defeat will serve as motivation. While they fell just short, their performance revealed strengths that will be crucial moving forward. Their scoring depth and ability to adjust defensively in high-stakes moments will remain valuable assets as the season progresses. Closing Thoughts The matchup between the Valkyries and Phoenix delivered everything fans hoped for: energy, speed, and a thrilling conclusion. With both teams showcasing their strengths, it was the Valkyries’ fourth-quarter execution that ultimately decided the contest. The 98-91 victory not only extends their winning streak but also reinforces their status as a championship-caliber team.

The Phoenix Mercury secured a hard-fought 98-91 road win over the Golden State Valkyries in a matchup that highlighted resilience, depth, and late-game execution. With the victory, Phoenix strengthened its postseason positioning while Golden State faced the challenge of competing with a shortened roster. Valkyries’ Limited Rotation Golden State entered the game with only eight available players after Tiffany Hayes and Cecilia Zandalasini were ruled out due to health concerns. Despite being shorthanded, the Valkyries made an early statement with strong energy and precise ball movement. Kate Martin stepped into the starting lineup and contributed with perimeter shooting, while Janelle Salaün provided an early scoring burst that fueled the offense. The limited rotation forced Golden State to rely heavily on its backcourt, with extended minutes required from key starters. The group responded admirably in the first half, building a double-digit advantage through consistent three-point shooting and disciplined execution. Burton’s Historic Performance One of the most notable aspects of the night was Veronica Burton’s career-best performance. She finished with 24 points and 14 assists without committing a turnover, marking the first time in league history a player recorded such a stat line. Her ability to control tempo, score efficiently, and distribute the ball kept Golden State competitive even as fatigue became a factor in the later stages. Burton’s precision from the free-throw line and composure in half-court sets allowed the Valkyries to maintain momentum for much of the first three quarters. Her play was a reminder of her growing importance to Golden State’s system, particularly when the roster is under strain. First Half Dominance The Valkyries put together one of their best offensive halves of the season, scoring 59 points before halftime. Their transition attack and accurate perimeter shooting gave them a 12-point cushion at one stage, thrilling the capacity crowd of more than 18,000 fans. Golden State’s ability to spread the floor created consistent scoring opportunities, and their ball security—just three turnovers for the entire game—was a major strength. The combination of offensive discipline and intensity in transition showcased the potential of the team when executing at a high level. Mercury’s Second-Half Surge Phoenix, however, adjusted effectively after halftime. Kahleah Copper spearheaded the comeback, finishing with 25 points while connecting on multiple three-pointers that swung momentum. Satou Sabally added 17 points, with the majority coming in the second half, including key baskets during the third-quarter rally. Alyssa Thomas provided balance in the interior, nearly achieving another triple-double with 13 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Her ability to rebound, initiate fast breaks, and keep possessions alive gave Phoenix the edge as the Valkyries began to tire. By the fourth quarter, the Mercury had completely shifted the tone of the contest. A decisive 20-8 scoring run highlighted their superior depth and composure under pressure. Ball movement created high-percentage looks, while defensive pressure limited Golden State’s perimeter rhythm. Key Contributions Beyond Copper’s leadership, Phoenix benefitted from balanced production across the roster. The ability of multiple players to step up in critical stretches underscored the team’s growth as a cohesive unit. In contrast, Golden State’s reliance on a shortened bench exposed vulnerabilities late in the game. Laeticia Amihere provided valuable minutes for the Valkyries, adding scoring and rebounding while bringing energy off the bench. Kate Martin’s timely three-pointers and Salaün’s first-quarter burst kept the team competitive, but sustaining offensive efficiency became difficult as the Mercury tightened their defensive schemes. Crowd and Atmosphere The game was played in front of a sellout crowd, continuing Golden State’s streak of home sellouts in its inaugural season. Fans remained engaged throughout, celebrating the Valkyries’ explosive first half and urging the team forward in the fourth quarter despite the late collapse. The atmosphere reinforced the rapid growth of support for the expansion franchise. Closing Stretch In the final minutes, Phoenix displayed superior execution. Half-court sets ran smoothly, defensive rebounding limited Golden State’s second chances, and Copper’s perimeter accuracy sealed the outcome. The Mercury’s composure contrasted with the Valkyries’ visible fatigue, which ultimately swung the result. The 98-91 victory reflected Phoenix’s ability to adapt midgame, manage momentum, and capitalize on depth advantages. For Golden State, the loss highlighted both resilience and the ongoing challenge of competing with a short rotation in a demanding schedule. Looking Ahead The win moved Phoenix to 21-13 on the season, keeping the team firmly positioned in the upper half of the standings with postseason seeding implications on the line. The Valkyries dropped to 18-17 but remained in the playoff picture, with upcoming opportunities to strengthen their position. Golden State will meet Phoenix again in their next outing, this time in Arizona, providing an immediate chance for redemption. For the Valkyries, the key focus will be recovery, roster stability, and maintaining the disciplined style of play that allowed them to thrive in the first half.

The Los Angeles Sparks and Dallas Wings delivered a contest that will be remembered long after the final buzzer. Despite an extraordinary performance from rookie sensation Paige Bueckers, who poured in a career-high 44 points, the Sparks claimed a nail-biting 81–80 victory on Wednesday night. Kelsey Plum delivered the dagger at the buzzer, a reminder that even when history is made, the scoreboard remains the ultimate judge. Paige Bueckers Joins Elite Rookie Company Few rookies have managed to command the WNBA spotlight as quickly as Bueckers. Against the Sparks, she not only set a new season-high for any player in the league but also matched Cynthia Cooper’s longstanding record for the most points by a rookie in a single game. Her fourth quarter was nothing short of breathtaking—she scored the Wings’ final 13 points , almost singlehandedly carrying Dallas back into contention. The 44-point explosion also pushed her past the 500-point, 100-assist milestone , making her the fastest rookie in Wings history to accomplish that feat. Although Dallas fell short in the standings, Bueckers’ performance underscored why she is already being discussed among the most electrifying young players in professional basketball. Sparks Find Late-Game Heroics While Bueckers stole much of the spotlight, the Sparks showed their veteran resilience. Kelsey Plum , who had struggled with efficiency for most of the night, drilled the game-winning jumper as the buzzer sounded. Her 20 points were vital, but the last two will be replayed on highlight reels for weeks. Rickea Jackson also played a starring role for Los Angeles. The sharpshooting forward caught fire from beyond the arc, knocking down a career-best six three-pointers en route to 25 points. Add in Cameron Brink’s gritty effort of 11 points and eight rebounds, and the Sparks had just enough balance to overcome Bueckers’ brilliance. Dallas Officially Eliminated from Playoff Contention The heartbreaking loss mathematically sealed Dallas’ fate, eliminating them from postseason contention. At 9–27 , the Wings endured a year filled with injuries and roster instability. Missing stars like Arike Ogunbowale, Ty Harris, and Li Yueru forced younger players into the spotlight. Yet, even in defeat, the organization found reasons to be optimistic. Bueckers is already emerging as a cornerstone, and Maddy Siegrist has been a revelation since returning from injury, averaging more than 16 points per game during her comeback stretch. Rookie guard JJ Quinerly has also shown poise, notching a career-high nine assists in the prior outing. While 2025 won’t end with playoff basketball for Dallas, the future looks brighter than their record suggests. Sparks Stay Alive in Playoff Race For the Sparks, the win carried weight beyond pride. Improving to 17–18 , Los Angeles tightened its grip on the postseason chase. With just a handful of games remaining, every victory is critical, and Plum’s clutch shot may serve as a turning point. The Sparks also continue to dominate the all-time series with the Wings, now leading 49–32. That historical edge, combined with their ability to deliver in crunch time, paints a picture of a franchise determined to claw back into title contention. What’s Next for Both Teams The Wings will use the remainder of the season to develop their young core and provide valuable minutes to rookies. With Bueckers already showing superstar potential and Siegrist returning to form, Dallas has the foundation of a competitive roster moving forward.  Meanwhile, the Sparks remain focused on securing a postseason berth. With Jackson emerging as a reliable scoring option and Plum providing the veteran leadership needed in big moments, Los Angeles believes it can make noise in the playoffs. Final Thoughts Basketball games are often remembered for final scores, but some nights transcend the box score. Paige Bueckers’ 44-point masterpiece placed her in the history books, even as Dallas bowed out of the playoff race. For Los Angeles, it was a victory fueled by resilience, sharpshooting, and a buzzer-beating dagger. The Sparks head into the final stretch with momentum, while the Wings turn toward building for the future. On this night, however, both teams delivered a showcase of why the WNBA continues to captivate fans with drama, skill, and unforgettable moments.

Reese’s Impactful Comeback After missing seven games with a lingering back injury, Chicago Sky rookie sensation Angel Reese made her much-anticipated return to the court. The former LSU star immediately reminded fans of why she was the seventh overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft. Reese finished with 19 points on 9-of-13 shooting, pulled down seven rebounds, dished out four assists, and blocked a shot. Despite playing limited minutes as the team eases her back into the rotation, she looked sharp and aggressive on both ends of the floor. Her ability to attack the rim, create second-chance opportunities, and set up teammates sparked energy that had been missing from the Sky during her absence. Reese’s return was not just a personal milestone but a significant morale boost for a team that has struggled mightily in recent weeks. Fans inside Wintrust Arena roared with every basket she made, knowing she represents both the present and future of the franchise. Although the Sky ultimately fell 94-88 to the Seattle Storm, Reese’s performance was a reminder that Chicago has a cornerstone player capable of carrying the team through its rebuild. Sky’s Competitive Fight Despite Setbacks The Sky entered the matchup on one of the toughest stretches of the season, having lost 13 of their last 14 games. During that span, the average margin of defeat ballooned to more than 20 points, raising concerns about chemistry, coaching decisions, and long-term direction. Tuesday’s game against Seattle was a refreshing change of pace, as Chicago remained competitive until the final buzzer. Ariel Atkins contributed 19 points and five assists, keeping the offense steady while Reese found her rhythm. Kia Nurse and Kamilla Cardoso also reached double figures, providing much-needed balance in scoring. Chicago’s most impressive effort came in the fourth quarter, when they erupted for 38 points—outscoring the Storm and nearly erasing a 16-point deficit. The surge reflected a fight and resilience that had been absent in recent contests. Still, defensive lapses and missed opportunities at the free-throw line proved costly. The Sky had multiple chances to cut the lead to a single possession in the final minutes but couldn’t execute under pressure. For a young, rebuilding roster, the loss was yet another lesson in closing out games against elite competition. Seattle’s Veteran Leadership and Rising Star On the other side, the Seattle Storm leaned on both veteran stability and youthful promise to secure the win. Skylar Diggins-Smith led the way with 24 points and six assists, showing poise in late-game situations. Nneka Ogwumike was equally impactful, adding 21 points and key rebounds in the paint. Ogwumike also etched her name further into the record books by surpassing Sheryl Swoopes for fifth place on the WNBA’s all-time steals list, a testament to her two-way greatness. Perhaps the biggest storyline for Seattle was the continued rise of rookie Dominique Malonga. The 19-year-old phenom poured in 15 points, grabbed six rebounds, and blocked three shots. Her milestone of reaching 100 career field goals before turning 20 underscored her rapid development and bright future. For a team chasing playoff stability, her emergence adds another dimension to a roster already rich with talent. Seattle’s victory lifted their record to 18-18, keeping them firmly in the playoff hunt. For a squad that has dealt with inconsistency throughout the season, this game provided confidence and momentum heading into a grueling road trip. Coaching Decisions Under Scrutiny While Angel Reese’s return was the headline, many Sky fans left the arena questioning the coaching strategy. Notably, rookies Hailey Van Lith and Maddy Westbeld did not see any playing time, despite being among the few players signed beyond this season. With Chicago’s postseason hopes nearly extinguished, critics argue that development should take precedence over leaning on veterans with expiring contracts. Head coach Tyler Marsh’s decision to sideline two promising young talents raised eyebrows across the fanbase and media. The lack of developmental minutes contrasted sharply with the team’s rebuilding narrative, leaving many to wonder about the organization’s long-term vision. If Reese is to be the centerpiece of the Sky’s future, surrounding her with equally developed young talent should be a priority. Playoff Picture and Looking Ahead For the Sky, the loss dropped their record to 8-26, effectively eliminating them from playoff contention. Yet, Reese’s successful return offers fans a reason to stay engaged for the remainder of the season. Her growth, alongside emerging talents like Cardoso, will likely shape Chicago’s offseason strategy and roster moves. For the Storm, the win marked a crucial moment in solidifying their postseason push. At 18-18, they remain in a competitive cluster of teams fighting for seeding and momentum. Their blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy gives them a dangerous balance that could surprise opponents in the playoffs. Looking ahead, Chicago faces the New York Liberty in their next outing—a tall task against one of the league’s most dominant teams. Meanwhile, the Storm begin a challenging five-game road stretch that will test their endurance and consistency. For both franchises, this game may serve as a turning point: Seattle building momentum, and Chicago beginning to redefine its path forward with Reese leading the way.

A Much-Needed Road Victory The Connecticut Sun finally broke through their road woes on Tuesday night, defeating the Washington Mystics 80–69 at CareFirst Arena. The win ended a grueling 13-game road losing streak, marking the Sun’s first victory away from home since May 30 against Indiana. For a team that has endured one of the league’s toughest seasons, this win was more than just a relief — it was a statement of perseverance. The Sun entered the game with only six victories, and their confidence had been tested after multiple close losses on the road. Against a Mystics team that had bested them earlier this season, the Sun played with urgency and determination. This victory was also significant because of the venue. The Sun had dropped five of their last six visits to Washington, including a demoralizing 104–67 loss earlier in the summer. Tuesday’s performance showed how far they had come since that defeat. Saniya Rivers Leads the Charge Saniya Rivers, the rookie guard who has quickly developed into one of Connecticut’s most reliable scorers, once again rose to the occasion. She poured in 17 points, grabbed four rebounds, and delivered several timely baskets that halted Washington’s momentum swings. Rivers has been the bright spot in an otherwise difficult season, and her growth was on full display. She scored seven of her points in the opening quarter, providing stability after the Sun fell behind 13–5 early. Later, her pull-up midrange jumpers helped Connecticut stave off a Mystics push in the third quarter. Veteran center Olivia Nelson-Ododa complemented Rivers with a near double-double: 15 points, nine rebounds, and four assists. Her dominance inside gave Connecticut the edge on the glass and in the paint, where they outscored Washington by a wide margin. Tina Charles, the experienced forward, chipped in 13 points and nine rebounds, providing leadership in crunch time. Bench Sparks Momentum The Sun’s bench made the biggest difference in the game, outscoring Washington’s reserves by an astounding 45–11 margin. This marked a season-high for Connecticut’s second unit, which has struggled at times to find consistency. Leila Lacan, the rookie guard, set the tone with her aggressive defense and quick playmaking. She contributed eight points, five assists, and four steals, repeatedly turning defensive stops into fast-break opportunities. Her impact extended beyond the stat sheet, energizing her teammates and frustrating Washington’s offense. By halftime, Connecticut had gone on a 9–0 run to push their lead to 47–35. They opened the second half with a 16-point advantage, and even when the Mystics trimmed the deficit, the Sun responded with steady contributions from their reserves. Mystics’ Milestones in Defeat The Mystics may have lost the game, but there were milestones to celebrate. Rookie Sonia Citron led all scorers with 19 points, showcasing her poise and ability to step up in big moments. Her third-quarter three-pointer etched her name into franchise history, as she surpassed Chamique Holdsclaw for the most points scored by a rookie in Washington’s history. With nine games left in the season, Citron has an opportunity to put the record well out of reach for future rookies. Shakira Austin also made history, reaching 1,000 career points with a layup in the second quarter. Austin, only in her third season, became the 24th player in Mystics history to reach that milestone. She finished the game with 12 points and seven rebounds, continuing her steady rise as one of Washington’s most dependable frontcourt players. Jade Melbourne added 11 points and four assists in her 100th career game, while Kiki Iriafen pulled down 12 rebounds — her fifth consecutive game with double-digit boards, setting a new franchise record for rookies. Team Effort Despite the Loss Washington showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in the first quarter when they jumped out to a quick lead. Their ball movement remained sharp, finishing with 21 assists as a team. Sug Sutton’s seven assists tied her season high, while the Mystics held Connecticut to just three made three-pointers, tying their opponent’s season-low from beyond the arc. Still, the lack of bench production and missed opportunities around the rim ultimately doomed the Mystics. Despite their strong perimeter defense and rebounding effort, they could not overcome Connecticut’s balanced attack. The Atmosphere and Momentum Shift The crowd at CareFirst Arena was vocal from the tip, especially after Washington’s hot start. However, the Sun’s 9–0 run to close the half shifted momentum dramatically. The once-electric arena fell quieter as Connecticut executed their offense with precision. Every time the Mystics appeared ready to mount a comeback, the Sun’s veterans or bench players responded. From Rivers’ jumpers to Nelson-Ododa’s finishes inside, Connecticut showed poise they had been missing on the road for months. Looking Ahead For the Sun, this victory represents resilience and hope. Ending a 13-game road skid not only boosted morale but also reminded the team that they can compete against playoff-caliber opponents. As they look ahead to their rematch with the Mystics at Mohegan Sun Arena, the challenge will be consistency. The Mystics, despite the loss, remain focused on development and playoff preparation. With Sonia Citron blossoming into a star and Shakira Austin establishing herself as a cornerstone, Washington has a promising future. Their rematch with Connecticut will be another chance to tighten execution and improve their playoff positioning. For both teams, Tuesday’s clash was more than just a mid-season battle — it was a glimpse into their evolving identities. The Sun proved they could win on the road, while the Mystics highlighted the young talent that could define their next era.

A Strong Start Sets the Tone The New York Liberty displayed poise and control in their 85–75 win over the Minnesota Lynx, securing another key victory as the season moves deeper into the playoff stretch. Both teams entered the matchup looking to strengthen their positions, but it was the Liberty’s balance on offense and timely defense that made the difference. From the opening tip, the Liberty used their size and speed to establish momentum, pushing the pace and forcing Minnesota into difficult shot selections. The first quarter saw the Liberty apply early pressure, scoring consistently in transition while moving the ball effectively in half-court sets. Minnesota responded with resilience, using sharp perimeter shooting to keep the game close. Still, the Liberty ended the quarter with a slim lead, setting the stage for an evenly contested battle. Liberty Pull Away in the Second Quarter In the second period, New York’s defense began to tighten. Quick rotations on the perimeter and an improved effort on the boards limited Minnesota’s second-chance points. Offensively, the Liberty leaned on efficient ball movement, finding open looks both inside the paint and beyond the arc. Their ability to convert high-percentage shots created separation, and by halftime they had built a two-possession lead. Minnesota fought to stay within striking distance, but turnovers in key moments slowed their rhythm. The Liberty’s balanced scoring ensured that no single defender could lock down their attack, with multiple players stepping up to share the scoring load. This versatility proved crucial as the Lynx struggled to keep pace. Lynx Surge in the Third Quarter The third quarter gave Minnesota a lifeline. The Lynx came out with renewed energy, hitting mid-range jumpers and drawing fouls that allowed them to close the gap. Their defensive intensity also increased, with more pressure applied to New York’s guards. For a brief stretch, it appeared momentum was shifting toward Minnesota as they cut the deficit to just three points. However, the Liberty remained composed under pressure. With disciplined execution, they slowed the tempo and worked for efficient possessions. A timely three-pointer late in the quarter, followed by a defensive stop, allowed New York to maintain control heading into the final frame. Closing Strong in the Fourth In the last quarter, New York displayed the depth and composure that has become a hallmark of their success this season. While Minnesota continued to fight, the Liberty’s combination of perimeter shooting and interior dominance proved too much. Clutch baskets in the final minutes extended the lead to double digits, effectively sealing the win. The Lynx pushed until the final buzzer, but their offensive efficiency faltered down the stretch. Missed opportunities in transition and late-game turnovers limited their chances of mounting a comeback. The Liberty, in contrast, showed veteran discipline, converting free throws and closing out the game with authority. Key Performances For the Liberty, the scoring was well-distributed, with multiple players reaching double figures. Their ability to share the ball and create balanced offense highlighted why they remain one of the most dangerous teams in the league. Defensive contributions also stood out, as New York effectively neutralized Minnesota’s top threats during key stretches of the game.  Minnesota had standout performances as well, particularly in the third-quarter rally. Their perimeter shooters kept the team competitive, and strong individual efforts inside prevented the Liberty from dominating the paint entirely. However, inconsistency across four quarters ultimately kept them from overtaking their opponent. What This Means Moving Forward This victory adds momentum for the Liberty as they continue to build toward the postseason. Their ability to maintain composure under pressure and close games effectively reflects the growth of a team ready to contend at the highest level. For the Lynx, the loss serves as a reminder of the need for consistency, particularly in late-game execution. Still, their fight and resilience prove that they remain a dangerous team capable of challenging top-tier opponents. Final Take The Liberty’s 85–75 win over the Lynx was a showcase of balance, poise, and execution. Minnesota showed flashes of brilliance, but New York’s depth and discipline ultimately prevailed. With the season intensifying, both teams will look to sharpen their performances, but for now, the Liberty leave the court with another hard-earned win that strengthens their playoff outlook.

A Needed Breakthrough Against a Rival The Las Vegas Aces finally found success against one of their toughest rivals, defeating the New York Liberty 83-77 at Michelob ULTRA Arena on Wednesday night. The win was particularly significant as it snapped a long regular-season losing streak to New York, giving the Aces their first such victory since 2023. The contest was as competitive as expected between two championship-caliber teams. With thirteen lead changes, nine ties, and neither side ever leading by more than seven points, momentum swung back and forth for much of the night. But in the final minutes, Las Vegas executed more effectively on both ends of the floor to secure its fifth straight win and strengthen its playoff positioning. Loyd Sparks Offense Off the Bench Jewell Loyd delivered one of the night’s most decisive performances. Coming off the bench, she scored 21 points while hitting five shots from beyond the arc. This marked the 26th time in her career she has reached at least five three-pointers in a game, placing her among the league’s most prolific perimeter shooters. Loyd’s timely shooting was most impactful late in the third quarter. After the Liberty built a seven-point lead, the Aces stormed back with consecutive long-range makes. Jackie Young added a crucial four-point play to put Las Vegas in front 59-58. That sequence gave the Aces their first lead since early in the first half and energized the home crowd. Wilson Dominates the Paint A’ja Wilson continued her run of dominance, finishing with 17 points and 16 rebounds for her 15th double-double of the season. She controlled the paint on both ends of the court, anchoring the defense while drawing fouls and converting free throws down the stretch. Wilson’s efficiency at the foul line proved vital. She made all 11 of her attempts, marking the eighth time in her career she has been perfect from the line with at least ten attempts. That consistency under pressure helped seal the victory in the closing minutes. Balanced Contributions From Aces’ Core Beyond Loyd and Wilson, Las Vegas leaned on its core group of playmakers. Jackie Young tallied 15 points, including a buzzer-beater to close the third quarter, while Chelsea Gray contributed 13 points and orchestrated the offense with poise. The Aces also showcased their depth. Even without Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, who missed the game on maternity leave, the rotation provided enough energy and defensive stops to outlast New York in crunch time. Liberty Struggle in Closing Minutes For New York, the defeat underscored lingering struggles in tight finishes. Emma Meesseman led the Liberty with 24 points and 10 rebounds, producing her second consecutive 20-plus-point outing. Sabrina Ionescu added 18 points and Jonquel Jones chipped in 11, but the Liberty offense stalled when it mattered most. In the fourth quarter, New York missed eight straight shots during a critical stretch. While Meesseman and Ionescu combined for all of the team’s 14 points in the period, the lack of balance hurt their chances of reclaiming the lead. New York also played shorthanded once again. Breanna Stewart remained sidelined with a knee injury, and Isabelle Harrison and Nyara Sabally were also unavailable. Though Kennedy Burke returned from a calf injury to add eight points in limited minutes, the Liberty lacked the depth to counter Las Vegas’ second-half push. Key Numbers Tell the Story The Aces relied heavily on their ability to generate second opportunities and convert at the line. They outrebounded the Liberty 39-30 and grabbed 17 points off 11 New York turnovers. Most importantly, they went 23 of 28 at the free-throw line, while the Liberty attempted just 16 free throws.  Despite shooting only 38.5 percent from the field overall, Las Vegas overcame its inefficiency by hitting timely three-pointers and dominating the possession battle. New York, by comparison, shot 43.8 percent but faltered late, managing just 4 of 16 from the field in the decisive fourth quarter. Looking Ahead With the win, Las Vegas improved to 19-14, keeping pace in a crowded playoff race. The victory also extended their home sellout streak to 42 consecutive games, the longest in league history. The Liberty, now 21-12, continue their road trip with a crucial matchup against Minnesota. Having lost two of their last three contests against top-tier competition, New York will need to regroup quickly to maintain its spot near the top of the standings. For the Aces, the momentum from five straight wins and a breakthrough against New York could be the turning point in their season. Their ability to combine star power with bench scoring makes them a formidable opponent as the postseason approaches.

Sun Find a Way to Close Out The Connecticut Sun secured a hard-fought 71–62 win over the Chicago Sky at Mohegan Sun Arena, snapping a five-game losing streak and regaining some much-needed momentum. Despite a rough season that has tested their depth and consistency, the Sun delivered when it mattered most, leaning on a combination of rookie contributions, veteran leadership, and late-game composure. Leila Lacan paced the Sun with 17 points, marking her first time as the team’s leading scorer this year. Tina Charles added 15 points, most of which came in the second half, while Marina Mabrey chipped in 10 points alongside steady playmaking. The win improved Connecticut’s record to 6–26, while Chicago slipped to 8–24 after dropping 11 of their last 12 games . Early Battle in the Paint The game opened with both teams trading baskets inside, with Chicago holding a narrow 10–6 lead at the first timeout. Kamilla Cardoso imposed her presence early, scoring efficiently and cleaning up the glass. She would go on to lead all scorers with 24 points and nearly posted a double-double with nine rebounds. Connecticut responded by tightening its defense and moving the ball more effectively. Lacan set the tone with seven first-quarter points, helping the Sun close the opening frame on a 15–8 run for a 21–18 lead . Second Quarter Sparks Tensions Momentum shifted further in the second quarter as Connecticut’s defense held Chicago to just 10 points, their lowest-scoring second period of the season. A 13–5 Sun run pushed the lead to 40–26 before halftime, with rookies and bench players contributing to the surge. The quarter, however, was overshadowed by a heated altercation involving Bria Hartley of Connecticut and Rebecca Allen of Chicago. After jostling for position, Hartley shoved Allen to the ground, leading to Allen pulling her jersey. Ariel Atkins entered the fray in defense of her teammate, escalating the confrontation. Officials reviewed the incident and ejected all three players, leaving both rosters shorthanded the rest of the way . Sun Build, Then Nearly Collapse Connecticut continued to build on its momentum in the third quarter, stretching its lead to as many as 21 points. Charles carried much of the load in that stretch, scoring 11 of her 15 points in the second half. By the end of the third, the Sun were ahead 60–45 and appeared poised to cruise to victory . But Chicago had other plans. The Sky opened the fourth quarter on an 11–0 run, cutting the deficit to single digits for the first time since early in the second quarter. Elizabeth Williams anchored the comeback effort with a double-double of 12 points and 15 rebounds, while Cardoso continued to score in the paint. With just under three minutes remaining, the Sky trimmed the margin to 67–62, putting pressure back on Connecticut . Connecticut Closes the Door Facing another potential collapse, the Sun regained their composure. A timely three-pointer from Charles broke a prolonged scoring drought, and rookie Saniya Rivers provided a critical spark off the bench. Rivers finished with eight points, six assists, three steals, and two blocks, becoming just the eighth rookie in WNBA history to post that versatile stat line. Lacan then added a key layup to seal the game, ensuring the Sun would not squander their lead a second time . Bench Contributions and Defensive Edge One of the most important factors in the win was Connecticut’s bench play. Rivers and Olivia Nelson-Ododa combined for 16 points, while Nelson-Ododa also tied a career high with three steals. In total, the bench contributed 20 points, a notable boost for a team that has struggled with depth. Defensively, the Sun forced 21 Chicago turnovers while committing only six themselves. This disparity gave Connecticut extra possessions and minimized second-chance opportunities for the Sky. Although the Sun struggled from three-point range (just 23.5%), their ability to capitalize on turnovers and get to the free-throw line compensated for the poor outside shooting . Looking Ahead The win was a rare bright spot in an otherwise difficult season for Connecticut. It marked their fifth home victory of the year and showcased the potential of their young roster. For Lacan, stepping into a leading role reflects the growth the Sun hope to build on in the final stretch of the season. For Chicago, the loss highlighted ongoing struggles with depth and consistency, particularly with Angel Reese sidelined due to a back injury. Cardoso and Williams provided strong performances, but the lack of bench production left the Sky vulnerable in the closing minutes. Both teams remain outside of playoff contention, but the spirited contest demonstrated resilience and fight despite their records. The Sun will next host the Indiana Fever, while the Sky aim to regroup before their rematch against Connecticut later this month .

Lynx Extend Winning Streak The Minnesota Lynx secured a crucial road win on Tuesday night, defeating the Washington Mystics 80–76 in a game defined by tight defense, rebounding battles, and clutch scoring. The victory extended Minnesota’s winning streak to three games, moving them further up the Western Conference standings as the playoff picture tightens. Minnesota relied on a balanced offensive attack and aggressive play in the paint to overcome Washington’s strong start. Kayla McBride led the charge with a team-high 21 points, while Napheesa Collier contributed 18 points, eight rebounds, and three steals. The Lynx also benefited from strong bench production, which proved decisive in the closing minutes. Mystics Open Strong Washington began the game with energy, using quick ball movement and perimeter shooting to jump out to an early lead. Ariel Atkins scored eight first-quarter points, while Shakira Austin controlled the paint on both ends, pulling down key rebounds and altering shots. The Mystics’ defense forced the Lynx into several early turnovers, and their transition offense translated those mistakes into points. By the end of the first quarter, Washington held a narrow lead, but Minnesota’s defense began to tighten. The Lynx closed the gap in the second quarter, attacking the rim more aggressively and drawing fouls to slow the Mystics’ momentum. Minnesota Gains Control in the Second Half The third quarter proved pivotal for the Lynx, as they turned a slim halftime deficit into a five-point lead heading into the fourth. Collier’s all-around play fueled the surge, while McBride and Bridget Carleton hit timely shots from beyond the arc to stretch Washington’s defense. Defensively, Minnesota limited the Mystics to just 16 points in the third quarter. They forced difficult mid-range attempts and shut down Washington’s pick-and-roll offense, making it harder for Atkins and Natasha Cloud to create clean looks. Clutch Moments Seal the Win The final period featured multiple lead changes as both teams traded baskets and defensive stops. Washington pulled within one point with under two minutes remaining, but the Lynx responded with back-to-back scores from Carleton and McBride. Minnesota’s free-throw shooting proved critical down the stretch, as they converted six attempts in the final minute to maintain control. The Lynx closed the game on a 7–2 run, stifling Washington’s last possessions with disciplined defense. Key Performers McBride’s scoring efficiency stood out, as she shot over 50% from the field and provided steady offense in critical moments. Collier once again displayed her versatility, impacting the game with her scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence. For Washington, Atkins led all scorers with 23 points, while Austin posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Cloud contributed 12 points and six assists, but the Mystics’ overall shooting dipped in the second half, particularly from long range. Bench Contributions Make the Difference One of the deciding factors in the game was Minnesota’s bench production. Carleton’s 10 points and key three-pointer in the fourth quarter provided a spark, while Dorka Juhász added six rebounds and solid defensive work against Washington’s frontcourt. By contrast, the Mystics’ bench was limited to single-digit scoring, which put added pressure on their starters to generate offense throughout the contest. Defensive Discipline While neither team shot exceptionally well from deep, Minnesota’s ability to contest shots without fouling played a big role in the win. The Lynx limited the Mystics to just 12 free-throw attempts, compared to their own 21, which helped offset Washington’s early hot shooting. The Lynx also dominated the turnover battle, forcing 14 Mystics miscues while committing just nine themselves. Those extra possessions proved vital in a game where both teams had stretches of cold shooting. Playoff Implications The win moves Minnesota closer to securing a top playoff seed, as they continue to find ways to close out tight games on the road. The Lynx’s ability to balance inside scoring with perimeter threats gives them flexibility heading into the final weeks of the regular season. For Washington, the loss was a setback in their push for a higher playoff position. While the Mystics remain competitive, they will need to improve their late-game execution and bench scoring to avoid falling behind in the standings. Looking Ahead The Lynx return home for their next matchup, where they will aim to continue their winning streak and solidify their place among the conference’s top contenders. Collier’s leadership and McBride’s scoring touch remain central to their success, while the bench’s continued contributions will be essential against stronger opponents. The Mystics will look to regroup quickly, focusing on maintaining their first-half energy for the full 40 minutes. Their ability to get consistent production beyond Atkins and Austin will be critical as they fight to maintain their playoff positioning. With both teams eyeing the postseason, Tuesday night’s close, physical contest was a preview of the intensity and precision required to advance deep into the playoffs. 

Liberty Hit Season-High in Points The New York Liberty showcased their offensive firepower on Tuesday night, defeating the Los Angeles Sparks 105-97 at Crypto.com Arena. The victory marked the Liberty’s highest point total of the season and tied head coach Sandy Brondello with Richie Adubato for the most wins in franchise history at 100. Emma Meesseman, stepping into a larger role with Breanna Stewart sidelined due to a knee injury, led the way with a season-high 24 points and nine rebounds. Jonquel Jones added a double-double with 21 points and 11 boards, while Leonie Fiebich contributed 20 points on efficient shooting. The balanced scoring effort allowed New York to maintain control late, despite Los Angeles’ interior dominance. Sparks Battle in the Paint The Sparks put up an impressive offensive showing of their own, shooting 46.8% from the field and scoring 52 points in the paint — their highest total in regulation this season. Kelsey Plum led all scorers with 26 points, adding five assists and five rebounds, and tying Nneka Ogwumike’s franchise record for most 20-point games in a single season with 19. Dearica Hamby delivered another strong performance with 21 points, eight rebounds, and four steals. Her eight boards also moved her into 26th place on the WNBA’s all-time rebounding list. Azurá Stevens chipped in 17 points, four assists, and three steals while passing Lisa Leslie for sole possession of 10th in franchise history for three-pointers made. Despite those efforts, Los Angeles couldn’t contain New York’s perimeter shooting. The Liberty connected on 14 three-pointers — the most allowed by the Sparks this season — and shot 50% from beyond the arc overall. Game Flow and Key Moments The matchup was tight through much of the night, with neither team able to build a comfortable lead until the closing minutes. Natasha Cloud’s back-to-back layups in the fourth quarter pushed New York’s advantage to 96-85, tying their largest lead of the game. Sabrina Ionescu added a timely layup shortly afterward, and Cloud struck again in the lane to extend the gap to 102-91 with just over a minute left. Los Angeles had opportunities to close the gap but was slowed by the Liberty’s defensive adjustments and zone coverage. New York’s ability to stretch the floor with multiple scoring threats made it difficult for the Sparks to mount a late comeback. Brink’s Early Exit The Sparks suffered a setback late in the first half when sophomore forward Cameron Brink exited with an ankle injury. Brink, who recently returned from a long-term knee injury, did not play in the second half. Head coach Lynne Roberts confirmed that the decision to keep her out was partly due to her ongoing minutes restriction. Without Brink’s defensive presence, Hamby and Stevens anchored the paint, combining for 38 points and 12 rebounds. However, New York capitalized on the absence by attacking inside and continuing their hot shooting from deep. Defensive Challenges for L.A. While the Sparks’ offense performed at a high level, their defense struggled to contain the Liberty’s rhythm. New York shot 55.9% from the field and controlled the pace for much of the second half. The Sparks did win the battle in second-chance points (14-7) and dominated on the fast break (15-0), but those advantages weren’t enough to offset the Liberty’s scoring efficiency. Roberts acknowledged after the game that her team’s defensive energy was not at its peak. Los Angeles had played five games in eight days, a stretch that tested their stamina and focus. Still, the Sparks have been one of the league’s hottest teams since the All-Star break, and they remain in the thick of the playoff race. Liberty’s Depth on Display The win was a testament to New York’s depth, as they overcame the absence of multiple key players, including Stewart, Isabelle Harrison, and Nyara Sabally. Alongside Meesseman, Jones, and Fiebich, Ionescu chipped in 14 points and six assists, and Cloud contributed 11 points with clutch baskets down the stretch. The Liberty’s victory kept them near the top of the Eastern Conference standings and provided a momentum boost after a loss to Minnesota in their previous outing. Looking Ahead The Sparks will aim to regroup quickly as they prepare for another important matchup in their playoff push. Maintaining their offensive efficiency while shoring up defensive lapses will be key as they enter the final stretch of the season. For the Liberty, the performance reinforced their status as a championship contender. With Stewart expected to return before the postseason and role players stepping up in her absence, New York’s versatility and balance remain among the league’s best assets. The 105-97 scoreline reflected not just the Liberty’s ability to light up the scoreboard, but also the Sparks’ resilience in a high-paced, high-stakes game — the kind of intensity both teams will need to replicate in the weeks ahead. 

A Much-Needed Win for Dallas The Dallas Wings snapped a five-game losing streak with an 81-80 road victory over the Indiana Fever on Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The result offered a much-needed morale boost for Dallas, which entered the contest having lost 11 of its last 13 games. For Indiana, the loss marked a missed opportunity to sweep the four-game season series against the Wings. Despite rallying from deficits of 14 and 17 points, the Fever fell just short, dropping to 18-15 on the season. Both teams entered the matchup without key stars — Dallas was missing Arike Ogunbowale due to a knee injury, while Indiana continued to play without Caitlin Clark, sidelined for her 20th game of the year with a groin injury. Early Control for Dallas From the opening tip, Dallas controlled the pace. Maddy Siegrist, making her first start since early June, delivered an aggressive offensive performance that helped the Wings establish an early cushion. Li Yueru provided a strong scoring punch off the bench, giving Dallas versatility in its attack. Indiana showed flashes of momentum in the first half, cutting into the Wings’ lead with a 9-0 run to tie the game at 42 by halftime. However, the third quarter swung back in Dallas’ favor as their ball movement and paint presence allowed them to rebuild their advantage. The Bueckers Factor Paige Bueckers, the first overall pick in this year’s WNBA Draft, had a mixed night statistically but still made a significant impact. She finished with 16 points, eight assists, five rebounds, and two steals, demonstrating her all-around skill set. Though her shooting touch was off — hitting just six of 19 attempts — Bueckers played a pivotal role in orchestrating the Wings’ offense, especially in Ogunbowale’s absence. Her wraparound pass to Myisha Hines-Allen for a three-pointer early in the fourth quarter helped extend Dallas’ lead to 17 points. Bueckers’ performance underscored her growing influence as a rookie, showing poise in managing the game despite a challenging shooting night. Indiana’s Resilience The Fever’s defining trait this season has been their refusal to quit, and that was on display once again. Down 78-61 with under seven minutes to play, Indiana launched a furious rally, scoring 13 straight points to open a game-closing 19-3 run. Kelsey Mitchell spearheaded the comeback, finishing with 24 points and four made three-pointers. Natasha Howard recorded her eighth double-double of the season with 12 points and 12 rebounds, while Aliyah Boston and Sophie Cunningham each added 14 points. The Fever had a chance to steal the win in the final seconds. After Bueckers missed a jumper with 14 seconds left, Indiana called a timeout with 1.7 seconds remaining. Mitchell’s last-second three-point attempt from the corner, however, hit the side of the backboard. Bench Production and Key Stats For Dallas, the bench was critical in securing the win. Yueru’s 20 points on efficient shooting provided a reliable scoring option in the paint. The Wings’ balanced approach allowed them to weather Indiana’s late push, even as their field goal percentage dipped in the final minutes. Indiana’s defensive adjustments in the fourth quarter forced Dallas into contested shots and turnovers, but the Fever’s late-game surge came just short of erasing the deficit completely. Lessons from the Loss While the Fever have endured adversity all season — including season-ending injuries to Aari McDonald and Sydney Colson — they have also shown measurable improvement from past years. The culture under head coach Christie Sides emphasizes resilience, accountability, and growth, and the team’s repeated comebacks highlight that mindset. Tuesday’s performance reflected both progress and areas for refinement. Defensive lapses in the third quarter and missed opportunities at the rim early in the game created a margin that was too difficult to overcome despite a spirited final push. Looking Ahead The Wings, now 9-24, will try to build on this win when they face the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday. The return of Ogunbowale will be key as they aim to finish the season on a more competitive note. For Indiana, the loss is a setback in their playoff positioning, but their fight to the final whistle reinforces the identity they’ve built. They’ll return to action Friday at home against the Washington Mystics, aiming to turn lessons from this narrow defeat into a stronger performance. In the broader context of the WNBA’s late-season playoff race, Tuesday’s game was a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing — and how even in a low-scoring quarter, one possession can decide the outcome.

Hamby’s Late Heroics Seal the Win The Los Angeles Sparks claimed a crucial 94-91 victory over the Seattle Storm on Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena, fueled by a clutch performance from Dearica Hamby in the game’s final moments. The win was another step forward in the Sparks’ late-season playoff push, as they continue to climb the Western Conference standings. Hamby delivered seven of the Sparks’ final nine points, including the decisive three-point play with just over five seconds left. Her poise under pressure capped off a back-and-forth second half where neither team led by more than eight points. Seattle had tied the game at 91 with under 13 seconds remaining, but Los Angeles executed on the next possession, finding Hamby inside for the go-ahead basket and free throw. The victory pushed the Sparks to 15-16 on the season, while the Storm dropped to 16-16 amid a five-game losing streak. Overcoming a Slow Start The Sparks stumbled early, falling behind 26-14 after the first quarter. Seattle’s aggressive offense, led by Brittney Sykes’ hot shooting, put Los Angeles on its heels. However, the home team quickly adjusted. In the second quarter, the Sparks surged back with a 32-14 advantage, swinging momentum in their favor and taking a 46-40 lead into halftime. Crisp ball movement, improved defensive rotations, and timely three-point shooting fueled the turnaround. The game’s final two quarters became a showcase of scoring runs and defensive counters, with eight ties in the second half alone. Seattle briefly took control late in the fourth, leading 87-80 with under three minutes left, but Los Angeles refused to fold. Balanced Offensive Attack Kelsey Plum led the Sparks’ scoring effort with 20 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, marking her 18th game this season with at least 20 points — tying her for the second-most in franchise history for a single season. Her improved efficiency since the return of point guard Julie Allemand has helped balance the Sparks’ offensive flow. Hamby’s 19 points came on 8-for-13 shooting, and she added seven rebounds, two blocks, and two assists. Azurá Stevens contributed 15 points and matched a season milestone for three-pointers made by a player her size, going a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc. She also led the team with eight rebounds. Rookie Cameron Brink delivered a spark off the bench, scoring a season-high 14 points in just 11 minutes while matching her season highs in rebounds and steals. The Sparks’ reserves combined for 26 points, hitting 60% from the field and 71% from long range. Seattle’s Strong Effort Falls Short The Storm showcased offensive depth, with Brittney Sykes pouring in 27 points and Dominique Malonga adding 20 off the bench. Skylar Diggins chipped in 17 points, while Nneka Ogwumike posted 15. Despite their scoring output, Seattle could not slow the Sparks’ three-point shooting. Los Angeles connected on a season-high 14 triples, many of them coming at pivotal moments to swing momentum. The loss marked another narrow defeat for the Storm, who have now dropped five consecutive games — all by four points or fewer — as they slip toward the edge of the playoff picture. Playoff Race Heating Up With the victory, the Sparks have now won nine of their last 11 games since the All-Star break, joining the Minnesota Lynx as one of the league’s hottest teams in that span. Their resurgence comes after a 6-14 start to the season and has been fueled by a stable starting lineup featuring Allemand, Hamby, Rickea Jackson, Plum, and Stevens. While Los Angeles has found offensive consistency, defense remains an area of concern. The Sparks currently allow a league-worst 87.8 points per game, but the return of Brink is expected to bolster rim protection and help limit opponents in the paint. Seattle, meanwhile, is locked in a tight battle with Los Angeles, Golden State, and Washington for the final playoff spots. With a challenging schedule ahead, including matchups against top teams like the Lynx, Liberty, and Dream, the Storm’s margin for error is slim. Looking Ahead The Sparks will have little time to celebrate their win as they prepare for another high-profile matchup during Rivalry Week, hosting the New York Liberty on Tuesday night. With their offense firing and playoff hopes within reach, they aim to build on their recent success. Seattle faces the challenge of regaining momentum quickly, knowing that their playoff fate may hinge on snapping their current losing streak. Finding late-game composure and defensive stops will be crucial if they hope to reverse their slide. Sunday’s thrilling contest underscored the intensity of the final stretch of the WNBA regular season. For the Sparks, it was a statement that they can win the close ones — a quality they’ll need if they want to turn a late-season run into a postseason berth.

A Key Road Victory in a Tight Race The Atlanta Dream continued their impressive late-season surge with a 74-66 win over the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday at PHX Arena. The victory marked Atlanta’s fifth consecutive triumph, improving their record to 20-11 and solidifying their position among the Eastern Conference’s top contenders. This matchup was the third meeting between the two teams this season, with Atlanta already holding a decisive edge from earlier games. Despite being on the road and facing a Phoenix squad eager to climb in the standings, the Dream once again found ways to impose their style of play, mixing strong defense with timely scoring. Fast Start, Midgame Challenge Atlanta wasted little time establishing control, building a 36-19 lead midway through the second quarter. Brionna Jones powered the early surge with scoring in the paint, while Naz Hillmon and Allisha Gray provided balance from multiple areas on the court. The Mercury, however, closed the first half strong, using a 15-3 run to cut the deficit to 39-34 at halftime. Phoenix’s defensive pressure and improved ball movement in the closing minutes of the half disrupted Atlanta’s rhythm. The Mercury’s rally was fueled by opportunistic shooting from the perimeter and better execution in transition, even though they still struggled to convert fast-break opportunities into consistent points. Momentum Shifts in the Second Half The third quarter opened with Phoenix seizing its first lead of the game at 48-46, sparked by a pair of baskets and defensive stops. The advantage, however, was short-lived. Atlanta responded with a quick scoring burst, reclaiming the lead with a combination of free throws, perimeter shooting, and inside finishes. By the end of the quarter, the Dream were back in control, holding a narrow advantage heading into the final period. In the fourth quarter, Allisha Gray emerged as the difference-maker. After being limited to seven points through three quarters, she scored 10 in the final stretch, knocking down critical shots to keep Phoenix at bay. Hillmon and Jones continued to dominate the boards, combining for 24 rebounds on the night. Impact of Injuries and Ejections The game took a dramatic turn late in the third quarter when Atlanta guard Jordin Canada suffered a non-contact injury while driving to the basket. She was carried to the locker room and did not return, finishing with 13 points, including two made three-pointers. Minutes later, in the fourth quarter, Rhyne Howard was ejected after a confrontation stemming from a blocking foul. The sequence forced Atlanta to finish the game without two of its primary backcourt players, putting added pressure on Gray, Hillmon, and Jones to maintain composure and production. Key Performers Atlanta’s success was built on balanced contributions. Gray led the team with 17 points, showing poise in late-game situations. Jones posted a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Hillmon matched that with 13 points and 13 rebounds. Canada’s efficient scoring before her injury gave the Dream a needed lift in the first three quarters. For Phoenix, Alyssa Thomas delivered a standout performance with 21 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. DeWanna Bonner provided scoring off the bench with 16 points. However, the Mercury’s other primary scorers, including Kahleah Copper and Satou Sabally, struggled to find their shooting touch, combining for just six made field goals on 26 attempts. Areas of Struggle for the Mercury The Mercury’s inability to convert fast-break chances proved costly. They failed to score in transition during the first half and finished the game with just seven fast-break points, compared to Atlanta’s nine. Missed opportunities in open space and lapses in defensive coverage allowed the Dream to regain control after Phoenix briefly took the lead. Shooting inefficiency also hindered Phoenix’s chances. Despite cutting down turnovers and creating good looks, they could not sustain a high enough shooting percentage to match Atlanta’s timely scoring. Looking Ahead With the win, Atlanta remains one of the hottest teams in the league, having found ways to adapt even when facing adversity. The Dream’s depth, rebounding dominance, and defensive resilience will be critical as they continue their push toward playoff positioning. Phoenix, now 19-12, missed a chance to climb higher in the Western Conference standings. With four days before their next game against the Las Vegas Aces, the Mercury will focus on recovering physically and addressing their offensive inconsistencies.  If these two teams meet again in the postseason, Sunday’s game provided a preview of what could be a physical and tightly contested series — one in which Atlanta has already proven it can handle the pressure and secure wins both at home and on the road.

Critical Win in Tight Postseason Race The Golden State Valkyries continued their late-season surge with a convincing 74-57 victory over the Connecticut Sun at Chase Center on Monday night. The win elevated Golden State to 16-15 on the season and into seventh place in the WNBA standings, an important jump in the highly competitive playoff race. With just 13 regular-season games remaining, every win carries significant weight for a team aiming to solidify its postseason position. Golden State entered the matchup with momentum, having recently secured an important win over the Los Angeles Sparks that broke a tie for the final playoff slot. Against Connecticut, they capitalized on that energy, shaking off early offensive struggles to deliver a commanding second-half performance. Balanced First Half, Then a Breakout The opening half was a grind for both teams. Neither squad found much consistency, with each shooting under 35% from the field through the first two quarters. Tiffany Hayes’ 12 first-half points helped Golden State maintain a narrow 32-26 lead at the break. The Sun stayed within striking distance thanks to Aneesah Morrow’s active presence inside, but Connecticut’s inability to connect from long range limited their scoring options. The turning point came early in the third quarter. Janelle Salaun scored on three consecutive possessions, followed by a Zandalasini three-pointer that extended Golden State’s lead to double digits for the first time. The Valkyries drained their fifth three-pointer of the quarter just minutes later, pushing the advantage to 53-36. From there, the home team never looked back. Their defense tightened, forcing low-percentage shots, and their offense flowed with better ball movement and spacing. Offensive Firepower Across the Board Golden State showcased the depth of its roster with multiple double-figure scorers. Tiffany Hayes and Cecilia Zandalasini led the way with 17 points apiece, providing both perimeter scoring and driving lanes that kept Connecticut’s defense on edge. Salaun’s 16 points were instrumental in building the lead, while Iliana Rupert contributed 10 points in a steady supporting role. Veronica Burton orchestrated the offense with precision, tallying 10 assists to go along with strong defensive play. Her ability to find open shooters and direct traffic allowed Golden State to execute efficiently in the halfcourt. Hayes’ performance was also notable beyond the box score — her scoring total moved her past WNBA legend Sheryl Swoopes for 31st on the league’s all-time scoring list. Defensive Discipline Sets the Tone While the Valkyries’ three-point shooting drew attention, it was their defensive execution that ultimately sealed the win. They held Connecticut to just 5-of-25 from beyond the arc and 34% shooting overall. Golden State’s ability to contest shots without excessive fouling kept the Sun out of rhythm. The defense also translated into offense. The Valkyries converted turnovers into fast-break opportunities, scoring in transition and preventing Connecticut from setting its defense. Their rotations were sharp, closing out on shooters and protecting the paint effectively. Sun Struggle to Find Answers For Connecticut, the defeat continued a challenging season that now stands at 5-26. The Sun’s road woes persisted, with their record away from home dropping to 1-15. Aneesah Morrow led the team with a double-double of 13 points and 14 rebounds, while Olivia Nelson-Ododa added 12 points. Recent acquisition Aaliyah Edwards, in just her second game with the Sun after being traded from Washington, contributed eight points and showed potential as a frontcourt piece. However, Marina Mabrey, typically a reliable scorer, was limited to just three points on the night. The absence of veteran Tina Charles, who sat out for rest, further compounded Connecticut’s offensive struggles. Playoff Implications and Path Forward With the victory, Golden State tightened its grip on a playoff spot and now sits just behind the sixth-place Las Vegas Aces. The Valkyries’ combination of perimeter shooting, depth scoring, and disciplined defense will be critical as they navigate the remaining schedule. For the Sun, the loss represents another missed opportunity to build momentum heading into the final stretch. With the postseason picture becoming clearer, Connecticut will need to address its offensive inefficiencies and road performance if it hopes to finish the season on a stronger note. Looking Ahead The Valkyries will look to carry their momentum into upcoming games, knowing that a string of wins could propel them even higher in the standings. They face a mix of conference and non-conference opponents in the coming weeks, making each matchup an opportunity to solidify their playoff berth. The Sun, meanwhile, face the challenge of regaining their footing amid a tough schedule and roster adjustments. Integrating new players like Edwards into their system while finding consistent scoring will be key if they hope to salvage positives from the remainder of the season. With both teams at pivotal points in their campaigns, Monday night’s result could be a defining moment — a boost for Golden State’s playoff charge and a stark reminder of the work ahead for Connecticut. 

SAN FRANCISCO — In a game that saw shifts in momentum, defensive grit, and individual brilliance, the Las Vegas Aces emerged with a 78–72 victory over the Golden State Valkyries on Wednesday night at Ballhalla . A’ja Wilson was the centerpiece of the win, delivering 27 points, 7 rebounds, and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line, cementing her status as one of the most reliable clutch performers in the league. A Fast Start, Followed by Valkyries Pushback Las Vegas came out aggressive, opening on an 8–3 run that set the tone for the first quarter. Wilson and NaLyssa Smith powered the early offense, combining for 12 points in the frame. But the Valkyries weren’t going away quietly — Janelle Salaün and Temi Fágbénlé helped Golden State close the gap, scoring the final five points of the quarter to trail just 16–14. The second quarter belonged to the Valkyries early. Carrying momentum from the first, Golden State strung together a 14–0 run that spanned the quarter break, taking a 23–16 lead. The surge included points from the free-throw line and opportunistic transition plays. The Aces’ offense stalled for over five minutes until Jackie Young broke through with a midrange jumper. That shot sparked a Las Vegas rally — Young herself scoring seven points during a 13–4 response that regained the lead. From there, the Aces executed a 9–0 burst to seize control, heading into halftime with a 43–38 advantage. Wilson’s Dominance and Late-Quarter Surge The third quarter began with the Valkyries refusing to fold, matching Las Vegas bucket for bucket. At the 6:48 mark, Golden State had tied the game at 48–48, capitalizing on aggressive defense and quick passing. But Wilson once again took over, scoring all five Aces points in the early minutes of the quarter and leading a decisive 10–2 run that put Las Vegas ahead 58–50. By the end of the third, the Aces held a 64–54 lead, thanks in part to perfect free-throw shooting from both teams in the period. Wilson tallied seven points in the frame, while Salaün continued to fight for Golden State with five points of her own. Valkyries’ Late Rally Falls Short Golden State refused to fade, opening the fourth quarter on a 9–2 push to close the gap to 64–60. The Aces endured a near four-minute scoring drought before Jewell Loyd stepped up with a midrange jumper. That shot sparked enough offense to keep the Valkyries at bay, with Las Vegas relying on Wilson’s flawless free-throw shooting to seal the deal in the closing minutes. Wilson scored six points in the final frame — all from the charity stripe. Tiffany Hayes led Golden State’s effort with 14 points and 9 rebounds, while Salaün contributed 13 points. Despite their fight, the Valkyries could not overcome turnovers and missed opportunities from three-point range, finishing just 4-of-22 (.182) from deep. Statistical Breakdown The Aces shot 45% from the field (27-of-60) and struggled from beyond the arc at just 18.5% (5-of-27). The Valkyries hit 39.7% of their shots (25-of-63) but similarly faltered from long range. Both teams secured 31 rebounds, with nine offensive boards apiece. Las Vegas committed 16 turnovers but limited the damage to just seven points off those miscues. Conversely, they capitalized on Golden State’s 13 turnovers for eight points. The Aces held a slim 9–6 edge in both second-chance points and fast-break scoring, though the Valkyries outscored them in the paint, 34–32. There were four lead changes and five ties, but neither team led by more than 10 points. Milestone Night for Wilson With her two blocks in the game, A’ja Wilson became just the fourth player in WNBA history to record at least 5,000 points, 2,000 rebounds, 500 assists, 500 blocks, and 300 steals. At 28 years and 363 days old, she is the youngest to achieve the feat, surpassing Candace Parker’s previous mark. Wilson also reached the milestone faster than any player before her, doing so in just 253 games. Looking Ahead The win moved the Aces to 16–14 on the season, while the Valkyries dropped to 14–15. Las Vegas will return home for a crucial three-game stretch, starting with a matchup against the Seattle Storm. Golden State will look to regroup and keep their playoff hopes alive in their next contest.

First-Half Battle Sets Defensive Tone The Dallas Wings earned a gritty 76–72 victory over the New York Liberty in a tightly contested game that showcased elite defense and timely scoring. From the opening tip, both teams displayed physicality in the paint and aggressive perimeter pressure. The Wings were determined to bounce back after their last loss, and they showed that urgency in their effort from the start. The first quarter opened with a flurry of blocked shots and contested rebounds, with neither team able to gain a significant edge. Dallas relied heavily on its frontcourt to establish control early, as Teaira McCowan and Natasha Howard combined to limit the Liberty's second-chance opportunities. Sabrina Ionescu led the early scoring charge for New York, hitting two long-range threes to counter Dallas’s strong inside presence. By the end of the first quarter, the score was tied at 19–19. Both teams shot under 40% from the field, with defenses collapsing quickly to close off driving lanes. Wings Adjust and Take Control In the second quarter, Dallas began finding cracks in New York’s defensive scheme. Arike Ogunbowale picked up momentum with a pair of pull-up jumpers and a deep three-pointer that electrified the home crowd. Crystal Dangerfield provided a stabilizing presence at point guard, navigating through Liberty traps and facilitating timely passes to open shooters. New York, however, remained resilient. Jonquel Jones asserted herself in the post, scoring back-to-back buckets to keep the Liberty within striking distance. Breanna Stewart, though limited early by foul trouble, returned in the second quarter and helped slow down Ogunbowale’s scoring run. Despite that, the Wings entered halftime with a narrow 38–34 advantage. Their ability to out-rebound New York 22–16 in the first half gave them more possessions and set the stage for a physical second half. Third Quarter Momentum Shifts The Liberty opened the third quarter with renewed energy, quickly going on a 9–2 run to reclaim the lead. Stewart began to heat up, sinking a three from the wing and following it up with a strong drive to the basket. Ionescu continued to stretch Dallas’s defense with her range, forcing the Wings to extend their perimeter coverage. Dallas responded by tightening up defensively. Satou Sabally and Howard combined for three steals during a two-minute stretch that fueled a Dallas scoring burst. McCowan re-established her presence in the paint, grabbing key offensive rebounds and finishing through contact. Ogunbowale ended the quarter with a buzzer-beating step-back three that put the Wings up 58–55. Final Frame: Closing Strong The fourth quarter saw both teams trade baskets and defensive stops. With less than five minutes remaining, the game was tied at 67. Jones hit a hook shot in the lane, and Stewart added a pair of free throws to give New York a brief lead. But the Wings responded with a clutch 7–0 run fueled by Ogunbowale’s fearless attacking. A key possession came with just under two minutes left: after a missed jumper by Stewart, Sabally raced down the court for a transition layup, drawing a foul and converting the three-point play. New York had one final opportunity to tie the game with 11 seconds left, trailing 74–72. Ionescu’s contested three-point attempt fell short, and McCowan secured the rebound and was fouled immediately. She calmly sank both free throws to seal the win for Dallas. Statistical Highlights The Dallas Wings finished the game shooting 42% from the field, while the Liberty managed 40%. Dallas held a slight edge on the boards, out-rebounding New York 39–35, and committed just 11 turnovers to the Liberty’s 14. Their advantage in points in the paint (36–30) proved critical in a game where outside shooting was inconsistent for both squads. Arike Ogunbowale led all scorers with 25 points, including four three-pointers and several key fourth-quarter baskets. Teaira McCowan added 14 points and 11 rebounds, notching a double-double in one of her most impactful games of the season. Satou Sabally chipped in 13 points and six rebounds. For New York, Jonquel Jones tallied 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Sabrina Ionescu contributed 16 points, five assists, and three steals. Breanna Stewart finished with 12 points and seven boards, but foul trouble limited her minutes in the second and third quarters. Looking Ahead This win improves Dallas’s standing in the playoff race and gives them momentum heading into a challenging road trip. The team showed composure and execution under pressure — signs of a squad capable of making a deep run. Meanwhile, the Liberty will look to regroup and address the defensive lapses that allowed Dallas to pull away late. With postseason aspirations in clear view, every possession will matter as the season enters its final stretch. 

Howard and Boston Shine as Fever Keep Playoff Momentum Alive SEATTLE, WA — The Indiana Fever continued their impressive surge in the WNBA standings with a gritty 78–74 win over the Seattle Storm on Sunday afternoon at Climate Pledge Arena. The victory marks Indiana's fifth consecutive win, solidifying their claim on the fifth seed in the playoff picture and establishing a sense of urgency for postseason contenders across the league. With star guard Caitlin Clark still sidelined for the seventh straight game, the Fever leaned on the dynamic duo of Natasha Howard and Aliyah Boston to control the tempo and close out the contest against a persistent Seattle squad. Howard finished with a team-high 21 points, while Boston tallied her sixth straight double-double, notching 16 points and 12 rebounds. First Half Surge Sets the Tone The Fever took an early lead and maintained control throughout much of the contest, using their defensive pressure and timely shooting to edge ahead in a back-and-forth first half. Indiana held a narrow 19–16 lead after the opening quarter, with early offensive sparks from Howard and Sophie Cunningham. Cunningham, who has stepped up in a starting role during Clark’s absence, chipped in five points in the opening frame and proved crucial throughout the night. In the second quarter, the Fever extended their advantage thanks to a balanced scoring attack. Damiris Dantas added key points off the bench, while Howard and Cunningham continued their rhythm from beyond the arc. A brief 8–0 run pushed Indiana’s lead to double digits before the Storm clawed back slightly to make it 42–34 at halftime. Cunningham Stays Hot Sophie Cunningham turned in a standout performance, hitting four of her first four attempts from beyond the arc. Her shooting helped ignite momentum during critical stretches, particularly in the third quarter. Cunningham finished the game with a season-high 17 points, making efficient use of her touches with 3-of-3 shooting from the field in the first half and 2-of-2 from long range. Her fourth three-pointer of the game extended Indiana’s lead to 13 late in the third period and drew a timeout from a frustrated Seattle bench. Cunningham’s consistent play since joining the starting lineup has added scoring depth to a Fever team adapting without Clark. Storm Fight Back Late Despite being down by as much as 13 in the second half, Seattle mounted a fierce comeback in the final minutes. The Storm used second-chance opportunities and tight on-ball defense to chip away at Indiana’s lead, eventually pulling within 73–72 with just over three minutes remaining. Skylar Diggins, who tallied 13 points for the Storm, capped an 11–0 run with a tough finish inside the paint, but the Fever responded when it mattered most. Kelsey Mitchell broke Indiana’s scoring drought with a critical mid-range jumper to put the team back up by three. Following missed attempts from Seattle—including four consecutive three-point tries in one possession—Mitchell added a layup with 8.1 seconds remaining to give the Fever breathing room. A free throw from Boston sealed the 78–74 victory. Career Milestone for Boston Aliyah Boston’s performance was not only crucial in securing the win but also historic. Her 12 rebounds on Sunday brought her career total to 932, moving her past Tammy Sutton-Brown for fourth all-time in Fever franchise history. The mark was reached in just 109 games—underscoring Boston’s rapid rise as one of the league’s elite post players. This double-double was Boston’s 14th of the season and 38th of her career. Only four other players—A’ja Wilson, Alyssa Thomas, Angel Reese, and Breanna Stewart—have recorded more double-doubles since Boston entered the WNBA in 2023. McDonald, Defense Make an Impact Aari McDonald quietly delivered one of her best performances of the season, posting a season-high nine assists—just one shy of her career-best. She anchored the defensive effort, helping the Fever stifle Seattle’s late-game perimeter attempts. Meanwhile, the Fever committed just nine turnovers to Seattle’s 15, a key stat that helped them stay composed even as the Storm attempted a comeback. What's Next for Indiana Now sitting at 17–12, the Fever are on a roll heading into the next phase of their West Coast road trip. Indiana will travel to Los Angeles to face the Sparks on Tuesday night before heading to Phoenix for a matchup with the Mercury. Both games hold significant playoff seeding implications as the regular season winds down. With the return of Caitlin Clark still uncertain, the Fever are proving they have the depth and resilience to compete with the league’s best. Whether it’s Boston’s dominance in the paint or Cunningham’s resurgence from deep, Indiana’s confidence and chemistry appear to be peaking at just the right time.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Atlanta Dream delivered a commanding performance on the road Sunday afternoon, overpowering the Washington Mystics 99–83 at the Entertainment and Sports Arena. Led by Rhyne Howard’s explosive scoring and a dominant second half, the Dream captured their third consecutive win while handing the Mystics another frustrating defeat. Dream Start and Early Mystics Resistance The first half was competitive, with the Mystics matching Atlanta’s energy through physical play and timely baskets. Kiki Iriafen provided Washington with a much-needed spark on both ends of the court. She fought hard in the paint, posting 22 points and grabbing 7 rebounds, helping the Mystics keep pace throughout the early going. The Dream, however, showed signs of control even before the break. Cheyenne Parker and Allisha Gray contributed steady offensive production, while Atlanta’s ball movement kept the Mystics’ defense scrambling. By halftime, the Dream had already hinted at their depth and momentum, though the lead remained within striking distance for Washington. Howard Heats Up in Second Half Coming out of the locker room, the Dream erupted. Rhyne Howard took full command of the offense, knocking down jumpers from the perimeter and slashing to the basket with poise. Her scoring outburst in the third quarter changed the tone of the game entirely, as she finished with 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists. Howard’s performance set the pace, and the rest of her team followed suit. Atlanta’s offense looked nearly unstoppable in the second half, piling up 54 points after scoring 45 in the first. Washington simply couldn’t keep up with the tempo, struggling with shot selection and inconsistent spacing. Their 34 second-half points paled in comparison as Atlanta’s defense tightened and limited quality looks. The Game Shifts with Transition Play and Ball Security One of the defining aspects of the game was Atlanta’s ability to capitalize on transition opportunities while maintaining composure with the ball. The Dream turned defense into offense, running the floor with speed and precision. Washington, by contrast, committed 15 turnovers—many of which led directly to Dream scoring chances. The Dream were disciplined and sharp, turning the ball over only 9 times all game. Their patience in half-court sets and their control of tempo made it difficult for the Mystics to generate momentum. Atlanta’s defensive rebounding also played a key role in limiting Washington’s second-chance opportunities. Key Team Stats Define the Outcome Statistically, the Dream’s all-around dominance became clear as the game progressed. Atlanta out-rebounded Washington 38 to 34, gaining critical possession advantages down the stretch. The Dream also out-assisted the Mystics 21 to 16, highlighting their commitment to sharing the ball and creating open looks. While Iriafen was the bright spot for Washington, the Mystics lacked balance on offense. Brittney Sykes and Ariel Atkins struggled to find rhythm, and the team leaned too heavily on isolation plays when their sets broke down. Late Push Not Enough for the Mystics The fourth quarter saw a brief surge from the Mystics, who cut the deficit to 10 points with under six minutes to play. But any hope of a comeback was quickly extinguished by Atlanta’s discipline and shot-making. Gray and Naz Hillmon converted clutch buckets, while Howard closed the door with a smooth mid-range jumper that pushed the lead back to 16. The Mystics' inability to close out possessions or stop dribble penetration allowed the Dream to coast to victory in the final minutes. Their effort remained, but execution lagged behind a faster, sharper Atlanta team. What This Win Means Atlanta’s road win sends a strong message to the rest of the league. With Howard playing at an elite level and key role players stepping up, the Dream look poised to make a serious postseason push. Their combination of scoring talent, rebounding effort, and defensive focus gives them a well-rounded identity. For Washington, the loss highlights ongoing concerns about depth and late-game execution. While Iriafen’s individual performance was promising, the team’s cohesion faltered when it mattered most. With the regular season pushing toward its final stretch, both teams face critical tests ahead. Atlanta will look to maintain its momentum in their upcoming matchup, while the Mystics must regroup and find answers quickly if they hope to climb back into playoff contention.

Liberty Overcome Adversity With Strong Team Effort The New York Liberty emerged victorious in a critical road matchup, defeating the Connecticut Sun 87–78 on Sunday. The win ended a difficult four-game losing streak and reignited the team's momentum in the latter stretch of the WNBA regular season. Despite missing key players due to injury, the Liberty found rhythm behind Sabrina Ionescu’s stellar performance and the much-anticipated return of forward Emma Meesseman. Early Momentum Sparks Confidence From the opening tip, New York showed renewed focus. The Liberty quickly established an offensive rhythm, led by Ionescu, who scored 16 of the team’s first 20 points. The first quarter ended with New York ahead 25–19, a lead they would never relinquish. Connecticut attempted to keep pace, but the Liberty’s pace and ball movement were too sharp early on. Jonquel Jones, playing in her former home arena, provided strong interior scoring to complement Ionescu’s perimeter assault. The Liberty maintained their lead in the second quarter. Jones added 13 points in the first half, while Ionescu pushed her total to 20 by halftime. New York entered the break with a 45–38 advantage. Connecticut remained competitive thanks to Tina Charles’ scoring inside and Aneesah Morrow’s versatility, but the Sun lacked the defensive consistency to slow down New York’s well-rounded offense. Meesseman’s Return Bolsters Depth A major storyline for the Liberty was the return of Emma Meesseman, who had not played in the WNBA since 2022. Making her season debut, the Belgian forward added a new dimension to New York’s rotation. Though she was initially expected to play limited minutes, her impact was immediate in the second half. Her high basketball IQ and seamless integration into the team’s offensive flow allowed the Liberty to exploit matchups and maintain control of the game. Meesseman scored all 11 of her points in the second half, playing a pivotal role in stabilizing the team during key stretches. Her ability to contribute in short bursts added much-needed frontcourt depth, especially with Breanna Stewart still sidelined by a knee bruise and Nyara Sabally continuing her recovery. Ionescu’s Dominance Defines the Game The centerpiece of New York’s performance was Sabrina Ionescu. Her offensive efficiency and aggressive drives set the tone for the game. Despite making just one three-pointer, she finished with 36 points on 13-of-19 shooting inside the arc. Ionescu also recorded 11 rebounds and four assists, cementing her reputation as one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers. Throughout the game, Ionescu’s scoring touch, rebounding, and leadership kept Connecticut at bay. Whether pushing the ball in transition or navigating the half-court offense, she executed with poise and confidence, particularly in the third quarter when New York created a double-digit cushion. Liberty Close Out With Composure As the fourth quarter began, the Liberty stretched their lead to 15, their largest of the game. Connecticut made a late push, cutting into the deficit with a flurry of buckets from Charles and Morrow. However, New York’s defense held strong down the stretch. Meesseman and Jones executed well in two-player actions, and Ionescu maintained control of the game’s tempo. Despite a few turnovers that momentarily shifted momentum, the Liberty never lost command. The game concluded with an 87–78 win, a crucial result that helps New York stay ahead of the Atlanta Dream in the standings. Statistical Breakdown New York finished with three players in double figures: Ionescu (36), Jones (21), and Meesseman (11). The Liberty shot 47.5% from the field and controlled the glass throughout the contest. Defensively, they limited the Sun to just nine made three-pointers combined and forced timely turnovers to halt Connecticut’s rallies. For the Sun, Tina Charles led the way with 17 points, followed by Aneesah Morrow with 16. Bria Hartley and Marina Mabrey added double-digit scoring efforts, but Connecticut struggled to match New York’s intensity in key stretches. Looking Ahead The win improves the Liberty’s record to 18–10 and restores confidence after a difficult stretch of losses. With Meesseman now in the rotation and Jonquel Jones back in form, New York appears poised for a late-season surge. They’ll look to carry this momentum into their next game against the Dallas Wings, a team that handed them a blowout loss earlier in the season. For the Sun, the defeat drops them to 5–22, and they’ll now prepare for a challenging matchup against the Phoenix Mercury. While the team has shown improvement since the beginning of the season, continued inconsistency on both ends remains a hurdle.