Bill Simmons and The Ringer’s NBA Finals coverage was everything ESPN’s wasn’t

The Indiana Pacers vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Game 7 showdown wasn't just a nail-biter—it smashed viewership records, becoming the most-watched NBA game in six years. Fans clearly couldn't resist the high-stakes drama of a winner-takes-all Finals clash.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about basketball—it's proof that when the stakes are sky-high, live sports still pull massive audiences in an era of streaming fragmentation. The league will see this as a win for its marquee events, and advertisers will take note too.

In a surprising move, veteran forward Khris Middleton has decided to stay with the Washington Wizards, a team deep in rebuilding mode, rather than chase a contender. The decision bucks the trend of stars jumping ship for immediate title chances, signaling Middleton’s commitment to the Wizards’ long-term project—or perhaps a lack of appealing offers elsewhere.

Editor’s Note: Middleton’s choice is a head-scratcher for fans used to stars prioritizing rings over patience. It either hints at the Wizards’ behind-the-scenes progress or reflects a thinner market for aging stars. Either way, it’s a rare win for a rebuilding team trying to keep credibility—and a storyline to watch if Middleton becomes a mentor or trade bait down the line.

Notre Dame football fans will need to update their mental rosters—several players are switching jersey numbers ahead of the 2025 season. While the exact reasons aren’t spelled out, these tweaks could reflect roster shifts, personal preferences, or even superstitions. Either way, don’t be surprised if you do a double-take during the first game.

Editor’s Note: For die-hard fans, jersey numbers are part of a player’s identity—think "Brady’s 12" or "Reggie Bush’s 5." These changes might seem minor, but they’re a subtle hint at how the team’s dynamics could be evolving. Plus, it’s a fun offseason nugget to debate while waiting for actual games to start.

Three Florida Gators guards—Walter Clayton Jr., Alijah Martin, and Will Richard—are in the mix for the 2025 NBA draft, according to ESPN’s latest projections. While none are currently top-tier picks, their inclusion on the big board means scouts are paying attention, and there’s a real shot one (or more) could hear their name called next year.

Editor’s Note: For Florida fans, this is a big deal—having multiple players on the NBA radar boosts the program’s reputation and could help with recruiting. Even if these guys aren’t lottery picks, making the draft at all is a win, both for the players and the school. It’s also a sign that head coach Todd Golden’s system is producing pro-level talent, which matters in the hyper-competitive world of college hoops.

Colfax-Mingo's baseball team put up a solid offensive effort, with Kyle Wood leading the charge with three hits and the team scoring their second-highest run total of the season. But despite tying the game early, they couldn’t contain Iowa Valley’s surges in the third and fourth innings, ultimately falling 13-9 in a high-scoring South Iowa Cedar League matchup.

Editor’s Note: For local fans, this game was a rollercoaster—plenty of excitement at the plate, but defensive struggles cost the Tigerhawks a shot at victory. It’s the kind of loss that stings, especially when the bats are hot, but it also highlights how small mistakes can swing a game in high school baseball.