Ranking the 25 best Oregon Ducks since 2000: No. 20 — Patrick Chung

This year’s NBA Summer League in Las Vegas feels unlike past editions—teams have wrapped up most of their offseason moves earlier, leaving fewer lingering trade or free-agency dramas. But the spotlight’s still on rising stars like Bradley Beal and Jonathan Kuminga, who are generating buzz as key players to watch. The event remains a must-see for fans eager to glimpse the league’s future, even if the usual offseason chaos has cooled.

Editor’s Note: Summer League is usually a messy overlap of unfinished offseason business and raw rookie talent, but this year’s quieter vibe shifts focus to player development and scouting. For hardcore fans, it’s a chance to see young prospects like Kuminga in action—while casual observers get a breather from the usual trade rumor whirlwind. Either way, it’s a sneak peek at the NBA’s next wave.

Sports commentator Jason McIntyre isn’t having it with the media’s dramatic takes on Cooper Flagg’s first Summer League game. He calls the intense scrutiny "goofy," arguing that overanalyzing a rookie’s debut—especially one as hyped as Flagg’s—is pointless. McIntyre suggests everyone should chill and let the kid develop without the hot takes.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about basketball—it’s about how sports media often turns every minor moment into a referendum on a player’s future. McIntyre’s pushback highlights a bigger issue: the exhausting cycle of instant overreactions, especially with young athletes. If even a seasoned analyst thinks the takes are ridiculous, maybe it’s time to dial back the drama.

England rugby star Jamie George is heading to Australia to join the British and Irish Lions squad as an emergency replacement for fellow hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, who suffered a concussion during their recent match. Cowan-Dickie got knocked out while making a tackle in their big 48-0 win over a mixed Aussie-Kiwi team. While the Lions coach says he’s doing "good," concussions are no joke—especially with the first major test against Australia just a week away.

Editor’s Note: Injuries are part of the game, but timing is everything. With a crucial test match looming, the Lions can’t afford to be short-handed in such a key position. George’s call-up shows how quickly plans can change in elite sports—one hard hit, and suddenly a backup becomes essential. For fans, it’s a reminder of the physical risks players take, even in what looked like a routine warm-up game.

College sports are in for a major shakeup thanks to the House Settlement, which will introduce revenue sharing—letting schools pay student-athletes directly. But don’t count out NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals just yet; they’re still part of the game. NCAA president Charlie Baker’s recent comments highlight how these two systems might coexist in this new era.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about money—it’s a turning point for how college sports operate. For years, athletes couldn’t earn a dime from their talent, and now the floodgates are opening. Revenue sharing could level the playing field for smaller schools, while NIL deals let stars cash in on their fame. But how these systems clash or complement each other will shape the future of the sport. If you care about fairness, fandom, or the business behind the games, this is worth watching.

The Atlanta Braves have sidelined third baseman Austin Riley for at least 10 days due to an abdominal strain, dealing a blow to their infield lineup. Riley, a key power hitter and defensive anchor, will miss critical games as the team pushes for a playoff spot.

Editor’s Note: Losing Riley hurts—literally and figuratively. He’s not just another player; he’s a cornerstone of the Braves’ offense and defense. With the postseason race heating up, his absence could force the team to scramble for solutions at third base, and fans will be holding their breath hoping it’s not a lingering issue.