Dan Gelston

LeBron James has officially signed a two-year, $8 million veteran’s minimum contract with the Philadelphia 76ers after previously considering retirement. The team revealed that he will wear No. 23 and welcomed him as it seeks to end a championship drought dating to 1983. James, who turns 42 in December, joins All-Stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown following a career featuring 22 All-Star selections, four MVP awards and four championships. The move also reunites him with Sixers president Mike Gansey, whom he has known since high school.

The Philadelphia 76ers officially signed LeBron James to a two-year, $8 million veteran-minimum contract after he reconsidered retirement following his 23rd NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers. James said he believes he can help Philadelphia win a championship, joining a roster featuring Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, Jaylen Brown and VJ Edgecombe. The move reunites him with team president Mike Gansey and raises expectations for a franchise that has not won a title since 1983 or reached the Eastern Conference finals since 2001.

LeBron James is reported to be joining the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year, $8 million contract after leaving the Los Angeles Lakers and considering retirement. The deal represents a substantial reduction from his previous $53 million salary. James says he is continuing because he still loves basketball and wants to compete, work and win, while believing he can help Philadelphia pursue a championship.

Jordan Walker's six-homer final-round rally over Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber earned him the Home Run Derby title, a $1 million prize and widespread recognition from figures including Barry Bonds. The St. Louis Cardinals right fielder hopes the breakthrough will make him a role model for Black children, much as Jayson Heyward inspired him. His victory came amid a modest rise in Black representation on MLB rosters, from 6.0% in 2024 to 6.8% in 2026, with a growing group of young players such as James Wood, CJ Abrams, Chase Burns and Drake Baldwin. Walker's longer-term influence will depend on sustaining his improved performance after injuries, demotions and earlier struggles; he currently leads MLB with 74 RBIs and is helping keep the Cardinals in the NL wild-card race.

Kyle Schwarber hit 10 home runs to advance from the first round of the Home Run Derby at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park, joined by Willson Contreras and Jordan Walker with 13 each and Junior Caminero with 12. Phillies teammate Bryce Harper hit eight and was eliminated despite a raucous home crowd. Major League Baseball used a 20-swing first-round format rather than a timed clock, while Netflix carried the event for the first time.

Kylian Mbappé scored his 15th World Cup goal for France against Iraq, tying Brazil's Ronaldo for third place on the tournament's all-time scoring list. Lionel Messi moved into first with 18 goals, while Miroslav Klose is second with 16. Mbappé scored in his 100th international appearance and now has 59 goals for France, a national record. France entered the tournament as a co-favorite with Spain after winning in 2018 and reaching the 2022 final.

Brazilian supporters visiting Philadelphia ahead of the team's match against Haiti were warned not to dress the Rocky statue in Brazil colors because of an alleged curse affecting teams that have done so. The superstition gained attention after Ecuador fans dressed the statue before Ecuador lost to Ivory Coast. Brazilian fans largely followed the warning while posing on the Museum of Art steps, a major tourist attraction linked to the Rocky films. Brazil faced pressure as a five-time World Cup champion, while Haiti entered as a heavy underdog with less pressure to win.

UFC CEO Dana White said the Freedom 250 fight card at the White House was a one-time event, citing its $60 million cost, outdoor-weather risks, and difficult logistics. The event, held in connection with Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, featured Justin Gaethje defeating Ilia Topuria for the lightweight title, while Ciryl Gane also won a championship. White and Trump hailed the event’s success, although controversies involving Sean Strickland and Josh Hokit marred the occasion. UFC’s next major event, featuring Conor McGregor’s return, will take place in Las Vegas.

Donald Trump is marking his 80th birthday with a UFC event on the White House South Lawn, staged under the “Freedom 250” banner to combine the birthday celebration with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. More than $60 million has reportedly been spent constructing the arena, as the event takes place amid an unpopular three-month war with Iran, volatile oil markets and elevated US inflation. The card is the latest expression of Trump’s longstanding political and financial relationship with UFC CEO Dana White, while fans have criticized the lineup as underwhelming and severe weather threatens the event.

Donald Trump is set to host UFC Freedom 250 on the White House South Lawn as part of his 80th-birthday celebration and the United States’ 250th anniversary festivities. The event will feature a temporary arena for roughly 4,000 spectators, while as many as 120,000 people may watch from the Ellipse. UFC CEO Dana White has promoted the show as a unique, once-in-a-lifetime spectacle, although fans have criticized the seven-bout card and several major stars will not participate. Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane will contest the interim heavyweight title, while Ilia Topuria faces Justin Gaethje. The event, costing more than $60 million, will stream exclusively on Paramount+ under the platform’s new UFC rights deal, making subscriber growth a key commercial objective.

UFC president Dana White’s 25-year relationship with Donald Trump has helped transform the promotion from a stigmatized spectacle into a mainstream global sports brand. Their partnership culminates in Freedom 250, a $60 million UFC event at the White House celebrating Trump’s 80th birthday and the United States’ 250th anniversary. White and UFC supporters describe the event as a historic sporting opportunity rather than a political statement, while critics see it as an extravagant display of MAGA-aligned power, particularly amid war and economic concerns. White’s political advocacy, Trump’s public support for UFC, and the sport’s pandemic-era resilience have produced substantial visibility and mutual benefits for both men.

Derrick Lewis secured a place on the UFC’s Freedom 250 card at the White House after Donald Trump asked UFC CEO Dana White why the popular heavyweight had been omitted. White quickly arranged a bout against Josh Hokit, and Lewis accepted, saying he was excited to visit the White House and did not want to disappoint Trump. The story also recounts Lewis’s troubled childhood, prison sentence, rise in boxing and mixed martial arts, UFC championship losses, and reputation for flamboyant post-fight celebrations.

UFC fighters and executives are promoting UFC Freedom 250, an unprecedented event planned for the White House South Lawn to coincide with Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and the United States’ 250th anniversary. Dana White says the event will proceed despite bad weather and a federal lawsuit alleging violations of National Park Service rules, lack of congressional consent and inadequate environmental review. The card features title fights between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane, and Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje, while Bo Nickal describes the event as a major career opportunity.

Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament discusses how skateboarding shaped his life and inspired him to help fund world-class skateparks in Montana, including parks on Native American reservations. The documentary “Paving the Way,” which premieres at the Tribeca Festival, focuses on Indigenous youth on the Flathead Reservation and the role of skateboarding in fostering creativity, resilience and community. Ament also addresses efforts to distribute the film within Indigenous communities, while discussing Pearl Jam’s upcoming return to the stage with a new drummer after Matt Cameron’s departure.

Philadelphia Phillies star Bryce Harper addressed viral attention after a video showed him squeezing toothpaste directly into his mouth instead of onto a toothbrush. The San Diego Padres amplified the joke on their videoboard, while Harper said he had used the method for years and welcomed the publicity. American Dental Association adviser Andrew Zucker criticized it as wasteful and recommended using a pea-sized amount on a toothbrush. Colgate-Palmolive clinical officer Maria Ryan also warned that placing the mouth on a toothpaste tube could transfer germs, though she praised Harper for promoting the importance of brushing to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Philadelphia is preparing to host six 2026 World Cup matches at Lincoln Financial Field, including a July 4 knockout-round game marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors are encouraged to explore historic sites such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Rocky-themed attractions, and the city's cheesesteak scene. Pennsylvania will offer World Cup fan zones, while Philadelphia plans a free 39-day festival in East Fairmount Park. SEPTA will provide free post-match Broad Street Line rides and expanded service, although visitors should expect limited dining near the stadium, expensive parking, and hot, humid summer weather.

Residents living around Aronimink Golf Club in Pennsylvania turned their properties into informal viewing areas during the PGA Championship. Fans watched from ladders, pickup trucks and rented platforms, while some homeowners hosted private gatherings or built raised “sky decks” for guests. Despite high ticket prices and temporary road restrictions, the neighborhood atmosphere remained orderly, with organizers emphasizing respectful noise levels and safety.

Spike Lee recalled attending the Knicks’ decisive Game 7 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1970 NBA Finals when he was 13. He vividly remembered Willis Reed limping onto the Madison Square Garden court despite a serious hip injury, scoring the opening basket and inspiring New York to a 113–99 championship-clinching win. Lee also discussed his lifelong Knicks devotion, his courtside presence at Madison Square Garden and his friendly exchange with former Knicks star Patrick Ewing.

The 76ers tried to prevent Knicks fans from taking over Philadelphia during Games 3 and 4 by restricting Ticketmaster sales to residents of the Greater Philadelphia area. The policy can be bypassed through resale platforms, where Game 3 tickets were listed from about $220 in the upper deck to more than $1,000 near the court. With Philadelphia trailing New York 2-0 and Joel Embiid injured, the size of the Knicks contingent will show whether local fans followed Embiid’s appeal to keep tickets in the hands of Sixers supporters.

Philadelphia Flyers fan Mike Culin traveled to the Vatican with a custom jersey bearing “Pope Leo” and number 14, hoping Pope Leo XIV would see it during a papal audience. The pope noticed and acknowledged the jersey, which was then passed into his entourage. The Flyers won against Anaheim that night and went 9-4 over a subsequent stretch, moving within one point of the final Eastern Conference playoff spot with three games remaining. Fans jokingly attributed the resurgence to papal support, while Porter Martone’s strong start was offered as a more conventional explanation. A family video of the encounter later went viral on TikTok.

Nate Bargatze served as grand marshal at the Daytona 500 after deciding against using a joke about converting 500 miles into feet. The comedian, whose career includes Emmy hosting, Netflix specials, a Grammy-winning album and a record-setting arena tour, is also making his film debut in The Breadwinner, alongside Mandy Moore, Colin Jost and Will Forte. He is scheduled to resume touring and host an ABC game show.

Noah Gragson became the first driver penalized under NASCAR’s new ban on drivers extending a hand through the window opening during qualifying. His qualifying time in the No. 4 Ford was disallowed after he used his left hand to deflect air, ending his chance to compete for the Daytona 500 pole. Gragson accepted responsibility and joked that he felt like an idiot, while fellow drivers and Dale Earnhardt Jr. poked fun at the mistake. Kyle Busch won the pole, with Chase Briscoe qualifying second. The rule was introduced after teams concluded that the gesture could provide an aerodynamic advantage on superspeedways.

CM Punk has been announced as the standard-edition cover star and a 2K Showcase headliner for WWE 2K26, which is scheduled for release on March 13. The game features a record roster of 400 playable characters, including major current and historical wrestlers, while special editions focused on Triple H, the Attitude Era and the Monday Night Wars are due on March 6. Prices range from $69.99 to $149.99. Punk, who returned to WWE in 2023 after leaving in 2014 and two unsuccessful UFC fights, said the Showcase explores what might have happened had he remained with WWE.

The Philadelphia Eagles gave Ryan Quigley, a survivor of the New Year’s Day vehicle attack in New Orleans, a Super Bowl ring and a framed photograph of MVP Jalen Hurts. Quigley was injured while his friend Martin “Tiger” Bech was killed, and he continues to undergo rehabilitation and prepare for a fourth knee surgery. The Eagles had previously invited him to games, the Super Bowl and its parade, where Saquon Barkley praised his resilience. Quigley remains emotionally connected to the Bech family and is focused on rebuilding his physical and mental health.

Twelve-year-old Marco Rocco's bat flip after a home run led to an ejection and suspension during a New Jersey Little League sectional final. His father, Joe Rocco, successfully challenged the suspension in court, allowing Marco to play in the state tournament. The viral moment is now being commemorated with 75 limited-edition “Batflip 2025” pins, to be traded at the Little League World Series in Williamsport. Marco's flipped bat is also set to be auctioned, while his father says Little League should establish clear rules governing bat flips.

Hulk Hogan became the defining professional-wrestling and popular-culture icon of 1980s America by presenting himself as a patriotic, virtuous all-American hero. His enormous success helped Vince McMahon turn the World Wrestling Federation into a national and eventually global entertainment powerhouse. Behind the carefully constructed persona, however, were steroid use, embellished personal stories, a sex-tape scandal, racist remarks and other controversies. Hogan’s later support for Donald Trump, including a speech at the Republican National Convention, further alienated fans. His final WWE appearance, intended to promote his beer, was met with hostile boos rather than nostalgia, illustrating how his personal and political controversies had undermined the crowd connection that once made him legendary.

Hulk Hogan’s career is recalled through several defining moments: defeating the Iron Sheik for the WWF championship in 1984, body-slamming Andre the Giant at WrestleMania III, reinventing himself as the villainous Hollywood Hulk Hogan in WCW’s New World Order, and receiving an unexpectedly warm reaction against The Rock in 2002. The piece emphasizes Hogan’s role in moving professional wrestling into major stadiums and mainstream pop culture, including record television viewership and the commercial power of Hulkamania. Hogan died in Florida at age 71 after more than three decades as one of wrestling’s most influential stars.

Hulk Hogan’s death at 71 is presented as the closing chapter of professional wrestling’s larger-than-life 1980s and early-1990s era. The piece recalls Hogan’s role in making WWE a mainstream phenomenon through WrestleMania, television appearances, film and his rivalry with figures such as Roddy Piper. It also surveys major performers from that generation who have died, including the Ultimate Warrior, Randy Savage and Dusty Rhodes, emphasizing their theatrical personas, cultural influence and the era’s reliance on oversized physiques and performance-enhancing drugs.

A New Jersey judge temporarily overturned the suspension of 12-year-old Little Leaguer Marco Rocco, allowing him to play in the state tournament after he was ejected and suspended for flipping his bat following a game-winning home run. Rocco’s family challenged the punishment in court, arguing that similar celebrations had previously gone unpunished and appeared in Little League Baseball social media videos. The state tournament winner advances to the regional tournament and potentially the Little League World Series.

Denny Hamlin said 23XI Racing will continue competing despite a federal judge’s refusal to let 23XI and Front Row Motorsports retain NASCAR charters while their antitrust case proceeds. The teams’ six cars will race as open entries, potentially requiring them to qualify on speed and exposing them to lost revenue if fields exceed 40 cars. The case is scheduled for trial on December 1, when Hamlin says the teams will present evidence about NASCAR’s charter system. The teams previously won an injunction recognizing their charters, but that ruling was overturned on appeal. Hamlin remains committed to the lawsuit, while driver Tyler Reddick’s future is uncertain because of a contract clause tied to the team’s charter status.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said the state will not provide funding for new sports arenas, including any potential replacement for the Eagles’ Lincoln Financial Field when its lease expires in 2032. He said the state will continue discussing stadium needs with Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and the Rooney family, while balancing sports and tourism investment against budget pressures and federal cuts. Shapiro also endorsed expanding NASCAR in Pennsylvania, provided it does not undermine Pocono Raceway, where the 2025 race weekend achieved its third consecutive sellout. The state is preparing for a major 2026 sports calendar featuring the MLB All-Star Game in Philadelphia, World Cup matches, the PGA Championship and the NFL draft in Pittsburgh.

A documentary about Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner’s 2023 standing ovation, which fans gave him during a batting slump, has won a Sports Emmy. Producer Kyle Thrash and fan Jon McCann presented the award to Turner before a game, celebrating the film’s recognition and the role of Philadelphia supporters in helping revive his season. Turner subsequently improved, helped the Phillies reach the playoffs, and contributed to “Thank You, Philly” billboards. The documentary was produced by Higher Ground, the media company founded by Barack and Michelle Obama.

Kayla Harrison won the UFC women's 135-pound championship at UFC 316 by submitting Julianna Peña in the second round, extending a career that includes two Olympic judo gold medals and two Professional Fighters League titles. After the victory, Harrison called out former champion Amanda Nunes, who indicated she may return but must first complete six months of drug testing. The profile also details Harrison's survival of physical and mental abuse by a former coach, her advocacy for abuse survivors, her faith, and the adoption of her niece and nephew after family tragedies. Donald Trump and Mike Tyson attended the event, and Harrison's future possibilities include a major fight with Nunes and a potential White House visit.

Donald Trump attended a UFC championship card at Newark's Prudential Center alongside Dana White, family members and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. He received a strong reception from fans, shook hands with supporters and the broadcast team, and temporarily set aside his public feud with Elon Musk. The event featured scheduled title defenses by Julianna Peña and Merab Dvalishvili, while Kevin Holland won the first fight after Trump's arrival.

The Ultimate Fighter is marking its 20th anniversary as Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen coach a new group of flyweight and welterweight prospects. The show’s first-season fight between Forrest Griffin and Stephan Bonnar is widely credited with exposing UFC to a much larger audience, although Sonnen downplays its historical importance while Cormier argues it deserves more credit. The current season airs on ESPN and ESPN+, with contestants training in Las Vegas for a UFC contract. Both coaches are retired and are focused on developing the fighters rather than preparing for a season-ending bout, while the show continues its role as a pathway to UFC careers.

Retired Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce participated in a Truist Championship pro-am at Philadelphia Cricket Club while working to improve his golf game. He recently posted swing videos on Reddit and received extensive advice from users. Kelce interacted with fans, discussed his New Heights podcast with his brother Travis, and praised Philadelphia’s golf culture. The event also included an amusing incident in which a spectator was struck in the hand by a stray golf ball. Philadelphia is scheduled to host the 2026 PGA Championship and the 2030 U.S. Open.

The Gaudreau family is coping with the deaths of hockey brothers John and Matthew, who were killed by an allegedly intoxicated driver while cycling in New Jersey the night before their sister’s wedding. Family members, friends and hockey organizations are honoring the brothers by focusing on their legacy of humor, generosity and support for children. The family is helping raise $600,000 for an adaptive playground at Archbishop Damiano School, where several relatives have worked or volunteered, through a 5K race, virtual participation and a memorabilia auction. The births of the brothers’ posthumous children and the rescheduling of Katie Gaudreau’s wedding have given the grieving family reasons to keep celebrating, while the driver still faces trial.

The Gaudreau family is coping with the deaths of hockey players John and Matthew Gaudreau, who were killed by an allegedly intoxicated driver while cycling in New Jersey before their sister’s wedding. Family members, friends and the Columbus Blue Jackets are preserving their memory through hockey tributes, family milestones and community involvement. Their main initiative is a Gaudreau Family 5K and fundraising campaign for an accessible playground at Archbishop Damiano School, where several family members have worked or volunteered. New babies born to the brothers’ widows and a rescheduled family wedding have brought both grief and renewed hope, while the criminal case against Sean Higgins remains pending.

Former Philadelphia Phillies slugger Ryan Howard and San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt are supporting the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum’s “Pitch for the Future” fundraising campaign. The Kansas City museum hopes to raise $30 million for a 30,000-square-foot facility and campus because its current location has outgrown its capacity. The expansion would preserve and broaden public understanding of Negro Leagues history and its connection to racial progress in American baseball. Rising interest, including the integration of Negro Leagues records into MLB statistics and their inclusion in MLB The Show, has increased demand for the museum. Howard and Shildt also connected the museum’s mission to the continuing underrepresentation of Black players in Major League Baseball and the need to inspire more Black youth to play.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino promoted the expanded 2025 Club World Cup, which will feature 32 teams across 11 US cities from June 15 to July 13. Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field will host eight matches, while the final will be held at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. Despite available tickets and concerns about the US political climate, Infantino expressed confidence that stadiums will be full and said the White House had guaranteed that international fans would be welcomed. FIFA has pledged $1 million to each host city and secured a $1 billion broadcasting agreement with DAZN.

A nine-home-run performance by the New York Yankees sparked sudden interest in the unusually shaped “torpedo” baseball bat, driving a major increase in orders at Pennsylvania-based Victus Sports. The design shifts wood toward the barrel’s sweet spot and is now being tested by professional and recreational players, although its performance benefits remain unproven. Victus has accelerated production and begun selling the bats more widely, while players such as Aaron Judge and Trea Turner remain skeptical of the hype.

A viral home-run surge by the New York Yankees has propelled torpedo-shaped baseball bats from a little-noticed professional experiment into a major consumer and industry craze. Pennsylvania-based Victus Sports, which had made only a small number of the bats, is now producing hundreds as Major League and recreational players seek the design, which shifts wood toward the sweet spot and is legal under MLB rules. The bat costs roughly the same as a standard model, but its actual performance advantage remains unproven. Some players, including Aaron Judge and Trea Turner, remain skeptical, while others are testing it as manufacturers rush to meet demand.

A Staten Island bar and a Kentucky postal worker’s family both claim to have originated the modern March Madness bracket pool. Jody’s Club Forest began a $10 Final Four and championship pool in 1977 that grew into a $1.6 million jackpot and attracted widespread participation, while Bob Stinson independently created a full 1-to-64, round-by-round bracket in Kentucky in the late 1970s and later distributed it electronically. Neither claim can be definitively proven. The Staten Island pool ended after an IRS investigation led to Jody Haggerty’s tax-evasion conviction and restitution, but the bar’s role remains part of March Madness lore.

TKO Group, which owns UFC and WWE, is launching a new boxing promotion in a multiyear partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Sela and Turki Alalshikh. UFC president Dana White and WWE president Nick Khan will run the venture, with the first event planned for 2026 once broadcast rights are secured. The promotion will use UFC facilities and TKO’s production and media operations, while White says it will stage events internationally rather than only in Saudi Arabia. The deal expands Saudi Arabia’s large-scale investment in global sports, amid ongoing criticism that the kingdom uses such investments to sportswash its human-rights record.

Joel Embiid will miss the remainder of the 2024–25 NBA season after the Philadelphia 76ers determined he is medically unable to play because of ongoing problems with his left knee. He will focus on treatment and rehabilitation while specialists determine the appropriate plan, potentially including another surgery. Embiid has been limited to 19 games this season, averaging 23.8 points, and Philadelphia has struggled without him while carrying a nine-game losing streak. The recurring injury follows surgery for a torn meniscus last season and has limited Embiid's availability since his 2022–23 MVP campaign.

Kris Jenkins misplaced his 2016 Villanova national championship ring during the 2022 Final Four festivities at Pat O’Brien’s in New Orleans. A Villanova fan, Deirdre Keane, found it and kept it safe, but the return was delayed until November 2024, when former Wildcats Brian Harrington and Chuck Everson delivered it back to Jenkins. The recovery highlighted the loyalty and solidarity of Villanova’s alumni and fan community.

Jeff Gordon said he has discussed a possible sequel to the 1990 NASCAR film “Days of Thunder” with Tom Cruise and would like Hendrick Motorsports to participate. Cruise has reportedly spoken with Paramount about a follow-up. Although the original film was criticized for exaggerating stock-car racing, it became a cult favorite and helped introduce NASCAR to a broader audience. Gordon said modern filming technology could make an authentic racing production possible and expressed optimism about growing interest in NASCAR-related films, documentaries and television projects.

William Byron won his second consecutive Daytona 500 for Hendrick Motorsports, becoming the first back-to-back winner since Denny Hamlin in 2019–20. He moved from ninth with one lap remaining and benefited from a final-lap wreck that did not trigger a caution before holding off Tyler Reddick and Jimmie Johnson. The race was delayed more than three and a half hours by weather and featured several late crashes, including Ryan Preece’s rollover and a multi-car incident involving several former Cup Series champions. Hendrick Motorsports’ victory was its 10th in the event, breaking its tie with Petty Enterprises for the record.

After racing ends at Daytona International Speedway, the infield transforms into an all-night party featuring wheelbarrow races, improvised bars, karaoke, tailgating and elaborate camping setups. Regulars describe a welcoming, family-like community, while the festivities also involve heavy drinking and occasional injuries. Venues such as Red 38 and long-running camper gatherings have become central parts of Daytona’s broader race-week culture, which continues until the Air Force Thunderbirds signal the start of another day.

Rapper Pitbull, whose real name is Armando Christian Perez, has ended his ownership partnership with NASCAR team Trackhouse Racing with immediate effect. He remains scheduled to perform before the Daytona 500. Neither side gave a reason for the split, while Trackhouse founder Justin Marks said Pitbull joined when the team had little certainty of success and was rewarded after it expanded and attracted new partners.

President Donald Trump directed the U.S. Treasury Department to stop minting pennies because production costs have risen above the coin's face value. The decision recalls one of NASCAR's most famous pennies: the coin six-year-old Wessa Miller gave Dale Earnhardt before the 1998 Daytona 500. Earnhardt glued it to the dash of his No. 3 Chevrolet and finally won the race after 19 unsuccessful attempts. The car, still displaying the penny, is preserved at the Richard Childress Racing Museum in North Carolina as a symbol of the emotional victory.

Drivers with experience in both the Indianapolis 500 and Daytona 500 explain that the races require very different skills. IndyCar racing involves greater speed, stronger aerodynamic tow and narrower racing lines, while Daytona’s NASCAR competition relies heavily on pack racing, drafting and coordinated teamwork. Jimmie Johnson, Kyle Larson and AJ Allmendinger also compare the cars, braking, passing, crowd atmosphere and pressure of each event. Helio Castroneves, a four-time Indy 500 winner and Daytona 500 rookie, is attempting to join A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti as a winner of both races.

Former Patriots coach Bill Belichick remained a major attraction during Super Bowl week despite being out of the NFL. He drew attention at the NFL Honors while wearing his Super Bowl rings, appeared publicly with his 24-year-old girlfriend Jordan Hudson, and received jokes about their age gap from host Snoop Dogg. Belichick has become more media-friendly since leaving New England, appearing on podcasts and NFL Network programming. He is set to begin a five-year coaching job at North Carolina, with $10 million in annual base and supplemental salary plus potential bonuses.

The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Washington Commanders 55-23 in the NFC Championship Game to reach their fifth Super Bowl. Saquon Barkley and Jalen Hurts each rushed for three touchdowns, while Hurts also passed for 246 yards and a score. Philadelphia set a post-merger conference championship scoring record, capitalizing on four Washington turnovers. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the Commanders mounted several scoring drives but could not overcome Philadelphia's offensive dominance. The Eagles will face the AFC champion in New Orleans on February 9.

The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Los Angeles Rams 28-22 in snowy conditions to advance to the NFC Championship Game. Saquon Barkley led the Eagles with 205 rushing yards and touchdown runs of 62 and 78 yards, while Jalen Hurts added a 44-yard rushing score. Despite two missed extra points, Philadelphia held off a late Rams rally when Jalen Carter sacked Matthew Stafford and Stafford threw incomplete on fourth down. The Eagles will host Washington after the Commanders upset top-seeded Detroit.

Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown’s decision to read Jim Murphy’s self-help book Inner Excellence on the sideline during a playoff game caused the title to surge from roughly No. 523,497 to No. 1 on Amazon’s trending and movers-and-shakers lists. Murphy said the exposure generated a flood of messages, while Brown explained that the book helps him refocus after successes or mistakes. The book received a 4.7 rating from 375 Amazon reviewers, and the Eagles subsequently defeated the Green Bay Packers to advance in the NFL playoffs.

Jason Kelce debuted as host of ESPN’s five-episode late-night series “They Call It Late Night with Jason Kelce,” combining profanity-heavy comedy, Philadelphia sports culture, NFL Films-inspired narration and a live panel featuring Charles Barkley, Lil Dicky and Brian Baldinger. The program included appearances by Kelce’s family, a local band and Eagles figures, while Jimmy Kimmel advised Kelce on hosting. ESPN has made no commitment beyond the limited run, but Kelce believes the format could have a place during football season.

Philadelphia is hosting RockyFest through Dec. 8, expanding on the previous Rocky Day with movie screenings, mural and educational events, look-alike contests, school runs, ice-skating recreations and guided tours of filming locations. The festival is designed to celebrate the Rocky and Creed films while directing visitors beyond the famous statue and 72 steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Sylvester Stallone has credited Philadelphia with helping make Rocky successful, and local tourism officials say the event addresses the lack of formal visitor services around the major attraction.

President-elect Donald Trump attended UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden with UFC president Dana White, Elon Musk, Mike Johnson and other supporters. The crowd gave Trump a standing ovation as UFC played a video celebrating his return to the White House, while the event featured the heavyweight title bout between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. The visit highlighted Trump's longstanding relationship with UFC and White, as well as his campaign's use of hypermasculine imagery and media figures such as Joe Rogan to strengthen support among male voters. Trump has otherwise spent much of the post-election period at Mar-a-Lago preparing his administration, including selecting Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Musk for senior roles.

Joel Embiid agreed to a three-year, $193 million extension with the Philadelphia 76ers, including a player option for the 2028-29 season. The seven-time All-Star and 2022-23 NBA MVP said he wants to remain in Philadelphia for the rest of his career and deliver the franchise its first championship since 1983. The deal gives the 76ers a core of Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey, but the team's title ambitions remain tempered by Embiid's injury history and inability to advance beyond the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Kirk Cousins led Atlanta on a decisive final-minute drive, connecting with Drake London for a 7-yard touchdown with 34 seconds remaining as the Falcons defeated the Eagles 22-21. Philadelphia had taken the lead after Saquon Barkley's costly dropped pass forced a field goal instead of a game-clinching first down. Cousins, returning from an Achilles injury, completed key passes to Darnell Mooney before finding London, while Jessie Bates III intercepted Jalen Hurts to secure Atlanta's first win of the season. The Falcons next host Kansas City, while Philadelphia visits New Orleans.

Family, friends and members of the hockey community gathered for the funeral of John and Matthew Gaudreau, who died after being struck by an SUV while cycling in New Jersey. John, a 31-year-old NHL All-Star who played for the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets, and Matthew, a 29-year-old former Boston College and minor-league player, were killed the eve of their sister's wedding. Authorities allege that driver Sean M. Higgins was under the influence of alcohol; he faces two counts of death by auto and related charges and remains jailed pending a hearing. Hockey organizations, teammates and fans have held vigils and offered support, while a GoFundMe campaign for Matthew's widow and their baby has raised more than $600,000.

Saquon Barkley is preparing to move past his departure from the New York Giants and focus on his new role with the Philadelphia Eagles. He criticized the recording and broadcast of his farewell phone call without permission but said Hard Knocks portrayed him fairly and offered fans an unusual view of NFL free agency. Barkley signed a three-year Eagles contract worth $37.75 million overall, including $26 million guaranteed, and is expected to serve as Philadelphia’s primary three-down running back after the team declined to retain D’Andre Swift.

Wells Fargo will not renew its naming-rights deal for Philadelphia’s roughly 21,000-seat arena when the contract expires in August 2025, requiring owner Comcast Spectacor to find a new sponsor. The venue has operated under several names since opening in 1996 and hosts the Flyers, 76ers and major events. The 76ers plan to leave after their 2031 lease and have proposed a $1.3 billion arena near Chinatown, while Comcast Spectacor has recently invested $400 million in renovations.

Actor Rob McElhenney, co-owner of Wrexham A.F.C., remains closely connected to his hometown Philadelphia sports scene and closely follows the Phillies, who entered the season with baseball’s best record. His friendships with former Phillies stars Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins have led to golf outings, promotional videos and ceremonial appearances alongside Bryce Harper. McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have transformed Wrexham since buying the club, though McElhenney acknowledges that promotion to the Championship and Premier League could require outside investment. He has also expressed interest in buying a minority stake in the Philadelphia Eagles, while continuing work on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and other television projects.

NASCAR driver Daniel Suarez became a U.S. citizen at a Charlotte, North Carolina, naturalization ceremony, while retaining his Mexican citizenship. His fiancée Julia Piquet, Trackhouse Racing colleagues and NASCAR president Steve Phelps attended, with Phelps delivering the keynote speech. Suarez, who moved from Monterrey to the United States to pursue racing, said citizenship became important as he took on greater responsibilities and sought greater security and permanence in the country. He won the 2016 Xfinity Series championship and has two Cup Series victories.

The UFC is introducing redesigned Vicis RDI gloves at UFC 302 in New Jersey, marking its first major protective-equipment change in more than a decade. The gloves move seams to the palm, remove finger binding, use redesigned padding to keep fingers in a more natural position, offer ten unisex sizes and weigh less than earlier models. UFC research indicates significant eye pokes occur roughly once every 14 fights and can cause lengthy delays, while a broader medical study recorded 36 eye pokes across 31 fights. Dustin Poirier finds the gloves more comfortable but fears increased cuts, whereas Islam Makhachev dislikes their durability and restricted finger movement. UFC officials intend to monitor results and make further changes, while Sean Strickland argues that the redesign cannot solve the underlying problem of fighters opening their hands.

Actor Paul Walter Hauser is expanding his professional wrestling career with an appearance in Major League Wrestling’s 40-man Battle Riot VI in Atlanta. He views wrestling as a genuine passion rather than a publicity stunt and has trained with former WWE wrestler Paul London, while continuing a busy acting schedule that includes roles in a Chris Farley biopic, The Naked Gun reboot, Marvel’s Fantastic Four and the final season of Cobra Kai. Hauser hopes to balance both careers, although his wife and agent oppose the physical risks of wrestling.

Allen Iverson was honored with a sculpture at the Philadelphia 76ers’ practice facility, joining Julius Erving, Wilt Chamberlain, Charles Barkley and Maurice Cheeks on Legends Walk. The ceremony celebrated his four scoring titles, 2001 MVP award, influence on basketball culture and role in leading Philadelphia to the 2001 NBA Finals. Iverson reflected on his famous “practice” comments, his relationship with former coach Larry Brown and his continuing connection to the team, including a potential mentorship role under coach Nick Nurse.