Stephen A. Smith clears air over NBA Countdown ‘news’

Tulane football coach Jon Sumrall will not be interviewing for the Florida head coaching position this week, despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise. According to Pete Nakos from On3, a planned meeting between Sumrall and Florida has been canceled.

Reginald Ruffin has been promoted to Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at Tuskegee University, while maintaining his role as Athletic Director. This promotion places him in the president's cabinet, where he will continue to develop the university's athletics department.

The North Texas football program is having a successful 2025 season, currently holding a 9-1 record with their only loss to South Florida. Head coach Eric Morris has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the team, positioning them to compete for the American Conference title.

The Cincinnati Bengals are optimistic about the return of star quarterback Joe Burrow for their upcoming game against the New England Patriots. Burrow participated fully in practice for the first time this week, signaling progress in his recovery from injury. The Bengals are eager to have him back as they aim to improve their season performance.

Boston Bruins' Charlie McAvoy is out indefinitely following facial surgery after being struck by a puck during a game. The injury has created gaps in the Bruins' defense, and there is currently no timetable for his return.

ESPN has secured the MLB.tv out-of-market package, while Netflix has acquired rights to the Home Run Derby and key games. NBC will take over the Sunday Night Baseball schedule. This development follows ESPN's earlier decision to opt out of its rights deal with Major League Baseball, which seemed to signal a potential split between the two parties.

Jimmy Butler, Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green will not play in the upcoming game between the Golden State Warriors and the Miami Heat, as confirmed by ESPN. Butler was previously listed as questionable due to a low back strain, but he has officially been ruled out. This game was anticipated as Butler's return to face his former team.

Major League Baseball (MLB) has secured new three-year media agreements with ESPN, NBC, and Netflix, which will extend through the 2028 season. Fox will continue to broadcast the World Series and other key events. This deal marks a significant shift in MLB's media landscape, enhancing its partnerships with major networks.