St. John’s Pitino could solidify status as greatest active college coach with another NCAA title: ‘Final 4 or bust’

The college basketball season is kicking off with an exciting exhibition game between Michigan and Cincinnati this Friday. Fans are eager to see how their teams perform as they prepare for the competitive season ahead. This matchup not only showcases the talent of both teams but also gives fans a chance to engage with the sport as they tune in to watch the game live.

If you're a college football fan, you're in for a treat this Friday night! The full schedule is packed with exciting games, and we've got all the details on how to catch them live on TV or through streaming. This is a great opportunity to support your favorite teams and enjoy the thrill of college sports, making it a perfect way to kick off your weekend.

LSU football coach Brian Kelly recently praised Vanderbilt's Clark Lea, highlighting his vision for the Commodores as a model for successful program building. This acknowledgment not only showcases Kelly's respect for Lea's efforts but also emphasizes the importance of perseverance in coaching, especially when facing early challenges. Such recognition can inspire both teams and their supporters, fostering a sense of camaraderie in the competitive world of college football.

Alabama football is gearing up for a crucial clash against Tennessee, and there's good news for fans as running back Jam Miller has been upgraded on the injury report. His return could significantly enhance the team's already potent offense, led by Heisman contender Ty Simpson. Miller's explosive playing style has been missed this season, and his full recovery could be the key to elevating Alabama's performance to elite levels. This matchup is not just important for the standings but also for showcasing the team's depth and resilience.

Tom Izzo, the head coach of the Michigan State Spartans, has identified several players who he believes are poised for breakout seasons this year. This insight is significant as it highlights the potential growth and development of the team, which could lead to a more competitive season in college basketball. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these players perform and contribute to the Spartans' success.

The Indiana football team is experiencing a remarkable season under head coach Curt Cignetti, who has successfully transformed the program into a competitive force. His recent 8-year contract extension reflects the school's commitment to maintaining this momentum, even as speculation about his potential departure for more prestigious opportunities arises. This development is significant as it not only highlights Cignetti's impact on the team but also signals Indiana's ambition to establish itself as a serious contender in college football.

Rick Pitino, the head coach of St. John's Red Storm, has decided not to start Bryce Hopkins in their upcoming exhibition game against Towson. This decision comes as Pitino enters his third season with the team, which has seen significant success under his leadership, including a notable run to the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament. Understanding the dynamics of team strategy and player development is crucial, and Pitino's choices reflect his commitment to building a strong team.

Charles Barkley has voiced strong criticism against the NCAA's proposal to allow college athletes to bet on professional sports. He warns that this change could lead to student-athletes gambling on their own teams, raising serious ethical concerns. This matters because it highlights the potential risks of blurring the lines between amateur and professional sports, which could undermine the integrity of college athletics.

In a landscape where most top NBA players either skip college or leave after just one season, this article highlights the ten best players who committed to four years of college basketball. It showcases how their patience and dedication have paid off in the professional league, emphasizing the value of experience and development during their college years. This matters because it challenges the current trend and reminds fans of the importance of a solid foundation in the sport.

Former Auburn coach Bruce Pearl is making a splash in the sports world by joining TNT Sports as an analyst for their college basketball studio show. This move is exciting not only for Pearl, who recently retired, but also for fans who will benefit from his insights and expertise. With host Adam Lefkoe leading the show, viewers can expect engaging discussions and analysis that will enhance their understanding of the game.

As Congress grapples with the future of college sports, two competing bills, the SCORE Act and the SAFE Act, are vying for attention. The SCORE Act aims to provide the NCAA with a limited antitrust exemption to protect its eligibility rules, while also preventing athletes from being classified as employees. Meanwhile, the SAFE Act has its own set of priorities, leading to a complex debate that reflects the challenges of reforming college athletics. This matters because the outcome will significantly impact how college sports operate and how athletes are treated, making it a critical issue for students and institutions alike.

Oklahoma State kicker Gabe Panikowski has announced his intention to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal, following a successful season where he made all 15 of his field goal attempts and 44 out of 47 extra points. This move marks him as the 10th player from Oklahoma State to enter the portal since the firing of long-time head coach Mike Gundy. Panikowski's decision is significant as it reflects the ongoing changes within the team and the impact of coaching changes on player retention.

The Seattle Mariners are gearing up for a crucial Game 5 of the ALCS 2025, currently tied 2-2 with the Toronto Blue Jays. After suffering two significant losses at home, the team is under pressure to perform at T-Mobile Park. Manager Dan Wilson's recent remarks about pitcher Bryan Woo have raised both intrigue and concern, highlighting the importance of their strategy moving forward. This game is pivotal not just for the series but also for the Mariners' aspirations in the postseason.

The Los Angeles Kings started strong in their game against the Penguins, showcasing impressive skills that made them look like the NHL's top team. However, they couldn't maintain that momentum and ultimately struggled, particularly on special teams, leading to a disappointing loss. This game highlights the challenges teams face in sustaining early energy and effectiveness throughout the match.

The Boston Red Sox are looking to strengthen their roster by potentially signing Kyle Schwarber away from the Philadelphia Phillies with a lucrative $130 million contract. After a successful season that saw them return to the playoffs, the Red Sox are eager to build on their momentum and capitalize on the talent of players like rookie Roman Anthony, who showed great promise before an injury sidelined him. This move could significantly enhance their competitiveness in the league, making it an exciting time for fans and the organization alike.

Manchester City is gearing up for an important Premier League match against Everton, aiming to secure the top spot in the league. This clash is crucial not just for the standings but also for the momentum it could provide as the season progresses. Fans are excited to see how Guardiola's tactics will play out against a resilient Everton side.

The upcoming match between Liverpool and Manchester United at Anfield is generating significant attention as both teams face intense pressure. This rivalry is always a highlight in the football calendar, and the stakes are particularly high this time, making it a must-watch event for fans. The outcome could have implications for their standings in the Premier League, adding to the excitement and tension surrounding the game.

Gianluca Mancini, the Roma defender, expressed his optimism ahead of the crucial match against Inter in a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport. He highlighted the team's hard-earned victories and emphasized their determination to showcase their capabilities on the field. This match is significant as it not only affects the standings in Serie A but also serves as a test of Roma's resilience and teamwork against a strong rival.