Trump’s Ukraine weapons pivot exposes tensions over US role

The Dallas Mavericks' top draft pick Cooper Flagg had a solid but not spectacular debut in the Vegas Summer League, chipping in 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in a tight 87-85 win over the Lakers. While Flagg showed flashes of defensive hustle with 3 steals and a block, he also had some quiet stretches. The game had extra buzz with Bronny James missing a potential game-tying three late, and Mavs coach Jason Kidd singled out Flagg’s composure as a bright spot.

Editor’s Note: Summer League is where hype meets reality for rookies, and all eyes were on Flagg as this year’s No. 1 pick. His stat line won’t blow anyone away, but the fact that he contributed across the board—and earned praise from a coach like Kidd—hints at his potential. For fans, it’s a first glimpse at whether the Mavericks’ big bet on him will pay off. And let’s be honest: any game involving Bronny James (even a missed shot) guarantees extra chatter.

A Georgia Republican named Brant Frost IV is in hot water after federal officials accused him of orchestrating a massive Ponzi scheme. Allegedly, he swindled around 300 investors out of a staggering $140 million by promising high returns but using new investors' money to pay off old ones—classic Ponzi behavior.

Editor’s Note: Ponzi schemes aren’t new, but this one stands out because of the political ties and the sheer scale of the alleged fraud. It’s a reminder that even seemingly trustworthy figures—like a party-affiliated individual—can exploit trust for personal gain. For investors, it underscores the importance of skepticism and due diligence, no matter who’s making the pitch. And for the public, it’s another example of how financial scams can hide in plain sight.

Ovidio Guzmán López, one of the sons of infamous drug kingpin "El Chapo," is reportedly preparing to plead guilty in a U.S. court for his role in a major drug trafficking case. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle against the Sinaloa Cartel, as it suggests a high-profile admission of guilt from a key figure in the organization.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another drug bust—it’s a symbolic blow to one of the world’s most powerful cartels. El Chapo’s legacy looms large, and his son’s guilty plea could signal cracks in the empire’s armor or, at the very least, a win for U.S. prosecutors. For everyday folks, it’s a reminder of how deeply drug trafficking networks are embedded in global crime—and how hard it is to dismantle them, even when big names face justice.

Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, two of boxing’s most electrifying rivals, are stepping into the ring for the third and likely final time this Friday at Madison Square Garden. Their first two fights were nail-biters—20 rounds of relentless action, 861 punches thrown, and zero knockdowns—but neither woman could definitively claim dominance. Now, they’re back to settle the score once and for all in what promises to be a historic showdown.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another rematch—it’s the capstone to a rivalry that’s helped redefine women’s boxing. Taylor and Serrano have been trailblazers, drawing massive crowds and proving the sport isn’t just a sideshow. Their fights have been technical masterclasses mixed with raw grit, and this finale could cement their legacies. For fans, it’s a chance to witness two legends write the last chapter of an unforgettable saga.

A U.S. appeals court has ordered a new sentencing for a Native Hawaiian man convicted of a hate crime against a white man, meaning he could end up serving more time in prison. The case highlights tensions around race, justice, and cultural identity in Hawaii.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one legal ruling—it’s a flashpoint in broader conversations about racial dynamics, historical grievances, and how the justice system handles hate crimes. The case could set a precedent for similar disputes, especially in places with complex colonial histories like Hawaii.