Royal Ascot 2025 updates: news, previews and more on day two – live

Rugby star Maro Itoje is set to make his debut as captain of the British & Irish Lions in a warm-up match against Argentina this Friday. The lineup includes notable players like Marcus Smith at full-back and England’s half-back duo Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith. It’s also a big moment for Tadhg Furlong, who’s using the game to show he’s back in top form.

The San Francisco 49ers have locked down star linebacker Fred Warner with a massive contract extension, making him the highest-paid player at his position. Meanwhile, the NFL free agency frenzy is in full swing, with big names signing deals and others still up for grabs.

Sports commentator Bill Simmons recently shared his surprisingly positive experience in Memphis, emphasizing how safe he felt while exploring the city—even joking about "power walking everywhere" without hesitation. His comments, likely from a podcast discussion, challenge common perceptions about safety in urban areas.

Editor’s Note: When a high-profile figure like Simmons casually praises a city's walkability and safety, it can shift public perception—especially for places like Memphis, which often grapple with negative stereotypes. It’s a small but meaningful nod to how firsthand experiences can defy expectations, and maybe even boost local pride or tourism.

Lamar Jackson isn’t just moving on from last season’s heartbreaking playoff loss to the Bills—he’s using it as fuel. At the Ravens’ minicamp, the QB made it clear he’s coming back with a vengeance, sending a not-so-subtle warning to the rest of the AFC. If his intensity translates to the field, opponents should be worried.

Editor’s Note: Playoff losses linger, especially for elite players like Jackson. His fiery mindset hints at a Ravens team that’s hungrier and more focused this year—which could shake up the AFC race. For fans, it’s a thrilling promise; for rivals, it’s a red flag.

A former NBA player has stirred up excitement by comparing Duke's rising basketball phenom, Cooper Flagg, to none other than LeBron James. With the 2025 NBA Draft on the horizon, Flagg’s buzz is reaching fever pitch, and this kind of high-profile endorsement only adds fuel to the fire.

Editor’s Note: Big-name comparisons like this don’t come lightly—being likened to LeBron signals sky-high expectations for Flagg. For basketball fans, it’s a reason to pay close attention to Duke games next season, and for NBA teams, it could shape draft strategies a year in advance. Hype like this can change the trajectory of a young player’s career before they even step on an NBA court.