South Florida Local News

Today is Sunday, Dec. 28, the 362nd day of 2025. There are three days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Dec. 28, 2014, the U.S. war in Afghanistan came to a formal end after 13 years with a quiet flag-lowering ceremony in Kabul, marking the transition of fighting from U.S.-led combat troops to the country’s own security forces. More than 2,200 Americans had died in Afghanistan since the war began.

Also on this date:

In 1895, the Lumiere brothers, Auguste and Louis, held the first public showing of their films in Paris.

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In 1908, a major earthquake followed by a tsunami devastated the Italian cities of Messina and Reggio Calabria, killing at least 70,000 people.

In 1912, San Francisco’s Municipal Railway began operations with Mayor James Rolph Jr. at the controls of Streetcar No. 1 as 50,000 spectators looked on.

In 1945, Congress officially recognized the Pledge of Allegiance.

In 1972, Kim Il Sung, the premier of North Korea, was named the country’s president under a new constitution.

In 1973, the Endangered Species Act was signed by President Richard Nixon, a law designed to protect plants and animals from extinction.

In 1981, Elizabeth Jordan Carr, the first American “test-tube” baby, was born in Norfolk, Virginia.

In 1991, nine people died in a crush of people trying to get into a celebrity charity basketball game at City College in New York that was headlined by hip-hop stars.

In 2015, a grand jury in Cleveland declined to indict two white police officers in the killing of 12-year-old Tamir Rice, who was Black. He was shot while carrying what turned out to be a toy pellet gun.

In 2019, a truck bomb exploded at a a busy security checkpoint in Somalia’s capital of Mogadishu, killing at least 78 people, including many students.

Today’s Birthdays:

• Actor Denzel Washington is 71.
• TV personality Gayle King is 71.
• Hockey Hall of Famer Ray Bourque is 65.
• Linux creator Linus Torvalds is 56.
• Political commentator Ana Navarro is 54.
• TV host-comedian Seth Meyers is 52.
• Actor Joe Manganiello is 49.
• Musician John Legend is 47.
• Actor André Holland is 46.
• Actor Noomi Rapace is 46.
• Actor Sienna Miller is 44.
• Actor Jessie Buckley is 36.
• Singer and songwriter David Archuleta is 35.

MIAMI — Observations and other notes of interest from Saturday night’s 142-116 victory over the Indiana Pacers:

– So perhaps this is why.

– Asked Friday in Atlanta about whether the back issue that now has had Bam Adebayo out for consecutive games could have been contributing to Adebayo’s recent slide, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said he wouldn’t feel comfortable speaking for his team captain.

– Before Saturday night’s game against the Pacers, Spoelstra somewhat reversed course.

– Spoelstra acknowledged pregame the time off was needed for Adebayo due to the discomfort.

– “He flew to Atlanta with us, with that kind of intention,” Spoelstra said of Adebayo sitting out Friday night’s victory over the Hawks. “But he clearly was not moving well enough to compete in that kind of game.”

– Spoelstra added, “But he’s definitely making progress. He really needed this time just to get . . . he was dealing with some deals because of overcompensation. I think he’s feeling a lot better each day.”

– As for guard Tyler Herro missing a ninth game with a toe contusion, Spoelstra said, “He’s definitely making progress. I don’t have a timeline for you. But I’m encouraged by what I’m seeing.”

– Spoelstra added, “The same goes with Bam.”

– After the game, Adebayo said, yes, the back had impacted his play.

– “I mean, for a while now,” he said. “It finally got to the point where I had to sit down.”

– So, Pelle Larsson as a starter again.

– “He doesn’t really need to score to be the glue in whatever lineup he plays in,” Spoelstra said of the second-year guard. “It’s those intangibles, winning intangibles, that probably don’t get celebrated enough.”

– This time he had 16 points and seven assists.

– Without Adebayo and Herro, a team can compete with the likes of the Hawks and Pacers.

– But to follow are the Nuggets, Pistons and Timberwolves.

– That will require more than the rough patches the Heat persevered through these past two nights.

– With Adebayo and Herro again out, the Heat opened for the second consecutive night with Larsson, Kel’el Ware, Andrew Wiggins, Norman Powell and Davion Mitchell.

– The Heat are now 6-2 with that starting lineup.

– Ware surfaced on the pregame injury report with quadriceps contusion, but was cleared two hours before tipoff.

Related Articles

• Heat make it two in a row, power past NBA-worst Pacers 142-116 as Adebayo, Herro sit again
• From puke to pressed into action, Heat’s Larsson hits the ground running in return
• Ira Winderman: Reality should have Heat as sellers, rather than potentially being left empty-handed
• ASK IRA: A victory without Adebayo and Herro means what for the Heat?
• Winderman’s view: Heat get back to their game and back to win column

– Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kasparas Jakucionis entered first off the Heat bench.

– Their energy impressive on the second night of the back-to-back set.

– Dru Smith followed, recording his 50th steal of the season in the second quarter.

– With Nikola Jovic again in the rotation.

– And again having his moments.

– That for the second consecutive night had Simone Fontecchio out of the mix.

– Jaquez said even with Adebayo and Herro out, this is not a time for excuses.

– “I mean, obviously we got two of our big guns out, and it’s a moment for everybody to step up,” Jaquez said. “We always talk about no one’s going to come save us. We got to do it ourselves.”

–The Heat certainly do not stand as strangers to shorthanded this season.

– “Like Spo said, sometimes you’ve got to have a chip on your shoulder and show what you can do and show that you can win,” Jovic said.

– Powell extended his streak of games scoring in double figures to 30, six off the longest such run of his career.

MIAMI — For most of Saturday night’s Miami Heat game, if you hadn’t watched much of the Indiana Pacers, you would have thought they were high percentage with their shots, relentless with their offense.

Instead of entering the night last in the NBA in field-goal percentage and second-to-last in scoring.

With defensive anchor Bam Adebayo sidelined for a second consecutive game with back pain, the Heat stood as less than stout on the defensive end for extended stretches before finally finding a way in a 142-116 victory at Kaseya Center.

So, misery averted against the team with the NBA’s worst record, and instead a two-game winning streak after previously losing eight of nine prior to the Christmas break.

“It was great spirit, really the last 48 hours, guys just getting lost into the game, into the team,” coach Erik Spoelstra said. “There was just great clarity of mind, nobody was getting in the way of each other.

“The bodies and the ball have been moving for two nights. We know what the formula is, and it was great to see it the past two nights.”

With guard Tyler Herro also out, the Heat turned to supporting players for leading efforts, rewarded with 28 points apiece from Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Andrew Wiggins.

With the Heat also getting 25 from Norman Powell and 19 from Nikola Jovic, it ultimately proved more than enough to offset the 33-point effort of Pacers forward Pascal Siakam, who sizzled in the first half.

Through it all, the Heat’s offense appears to have regained its stride when gifted a pair of turnover-prone opponents the past two nights, getting 21 from the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night and then 26 from the Pacers in this one.

It is the seventh time the Heat scored at least 140 this season, after doing it that many times in the franchise’s previous 37 seasons.

Five Degrees of Heat from Saturday night’s game:

1. Game flow: The Heat led 29-28 after the first period, with Indiana then moving to a 60-59 halftime lead. The Heat then went down four in the third period, before taking a 98-94 lead into the fourth.

From there, the Heat extended their lead to 14 with 7:21 left in the fourth quarter, with a 13-4 surge sparked by Jaquez.

Eventually, the lead moved onto the 20s, with the Heat scoring 83 second-half points, including 44 in the fourth quarter.

“The pace was fantastic,” Spoelstra said.

2. All-out attack: Jaquez again was solid in anchoring the bench, his attacking style needed on a night when there was plenty of meandering elsewhere with the Heat offense beyond Wiggins’ play..

Jaquez has now scored 20 or more in three of his last four games, after doing so just once in his previous 10 appearances.

“He’s been very consistent this year,” Spoelstra said. “I know there’s a stretch when we were losing those games, he was missing some shots. But the competitive will and the competitive spirit, that’s what we need.”

Jaquez closed 11 of 15 from the field.

“I think collectively we’re really just buying into the principles we’re working with since training camp,” Jaquez said. “We kind of got away from it. We kind of got back to what works for us.”

Related Articles

• Winderman’s view: Pain real ‘for a while now’ for Adebayo, as Heat again win in his absence
• From puke to pressed into action, Heat’s Larsson hits the ground running in return
• Ira Winderman: Reality should have Heat as sellers, rather than potentially being left empty-handed
• ASK IRA: A victory without Adebayo and Herro means what for the Heat?
• Winderman’s view: Heat get back to their game and back to win column

3. Way of Wiggins: Wiggins continues to quietly warm up to the season, with another solid effort after Friday night’s 18 points in the victory in Atlanta.

Wiggins early in the third period stood 3 of 3 on 3-pointers at a stage when the rest of his teammates were 3 of 15.

With Herro and Adebayo out, Wiggins appears to have found a rhythm he often has lacked while playing as more of a complementary component.

“Both nights, he was really good, assertive on both ends of the court,” Spoelstra said. “It’s just fun to see him when he’s competing at that level. He has those gifts to make the difficult look easy. He really got on a roll offensively, and he did it from every facet.”

Wiggins closed 12 of 16 from the field, including 4 of 4 on 3-pointers.

“We’re just trying to look out for each other, that’s the main thing,” Wiggins said of the Heat finding a way in the absences of Adebayo and Herro.

4. Suddenly Siakam: Siakam was up to 24 points by intermission, at one point scoring eight points in the 57-second stretch in the second period.

Siakam was 10 of 13 from the field in the first half, including 4 of 5 on 3-pointers.

The Heat then increased the number of double-teams thrown at Siakam, leaving Pacers shooters wide open at times.

Siakam nonetheless became the 15th player to score 30 or more against the Heat this season, with New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson doing it twice, including his 47-point performance on Sunday night.

5. It gets real: Next up for the Heat is a three-game stretch against the elite of the league, starting Monday night against the Denver Nuggets (22-9), continuing with a New Year’s Day road game against the Detroit Pistons (24-7) and then next Saturday at home against the Minnesota Timberwolves (20-12).

The Heat are 6-13 against teams with winning records.

SUNRISE — Pontus Holmberg scored with 7.3 seconds left in the first period to put Tampa Bay on top for good, Nikita Kucherov scored twice and the Lightning beat the Florida Panthers 4-2 in another penalty-filled matchup between the Sunshine State rivals.

Jake Guentzel also scored for Tampa Bay, which has won three straight. Kucherov sealed it with an empty-netter with 56 seconds left.

Brad Marchand and Eetu Luostarinen scored for the Panthers, who lost for just the second time in their last seven games. Florida was 1 for 11 on the power play and also gave up Guentzel’s shorthanded tally.

Both teams set season-highs for penalty minutes — by far. Tampa Bay finished with 87, Florida finished with 49. The Lightning had 33 on Nov. 16 against Vancouver; the Panthers had 20 on Nov. 22 against Edmonton.

And there were reminders that these teams, as has been the case forever, simply do not like one another.

Tampa Bay’s Scott Sabourin — who had a starring role in the preseason game that featured more than 300 penalty minutes — drew two minors and a misconduct early in the third period for roughing and slashing the Panthers’ Niko Mikkola. Sabourin was called up earlier in the day, and three of his nine games with the Lightning this season have been against Florida.

Those penalties against Sabourin came after play was stopped for about eight minutes late in the second period while referees sorted out 13 roughing penalties — seven against Tampa Bay, six against Florida. At one point during a stoppage, there were six players in the Lightning’s penalty box.

Sabourin was given another misconduct with 33 seconds remaining, part of a 26-penalty night for Tampa Bay.

Up next

Panthers: Host Washington on Monday night.

General Daily Insight for December 28, 2025

Today invites honest, gentle self-reflection. The Moon and Jupiter kick things off with a square that may stretch us beyond our comfort zones. We have the strength to handle this — especially once the emotional Moon conjoins comforting Chiron at 6:26 PM EST. Our sore spots will make themselves heard, but in doing so, we’ll have an opportunity to face them and respond with care. It won’t be easy, but we’ll have the strength to handle it. Choose gentleness with yourself to build lasting progress.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

It takes courage to be soft right now. While Luna merges with cosmic medic Chiron in your sign, you’re invited to peel back your armor and show the real you. An introduction could feel risky, but push through! Being open with others is a great way to build trust. Someone may say something hurtful, but that doesn’t have to hold you back. Your story carries more layers than labels suggest. Share your truth with those you trust to boost your influence where it matters.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Quiet energy permeates your current mindset. Your 12th House of Karma takes priority while the nurturing Moon connects with tender Chiron, encouraging thoughtful reflection. Something as small as writing down a few sentences about your emotions on any nearby paper could be quite enlightening. You could also turn off your phone for twenty minutes or take a chill walk. If discomforting memories surface, let them pass through you without getting stuck in the gory details. Afterwards, banish any remaining aches with your favorite soothing beverage.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

What’s really on your mind, Gemini? Conversations with friends are excellent for discussing in-depth ideas, particularly once the Moon conjoins therapeutic Chiron in your 11th House of Hope. You can bring up pipe-dream travel pitches without being wounded by any honest feedback. With their advice, you can summarize your options without rushing decisions. If a friend overshares, try asking a genuine question before shutting them down. Nonjudgmental listening can deepen every connection. Speak simply so people feel safe opening up with you.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Certain priorities may need handling before you can find clarity on anything else. That doesn’t mean you have to organize your entire life, of course, but a clear workspace should make for a much clearer mind. Under the homely Moon’s alliance with vulnerable Chiron in your professional 10th house, pay attention to the locations where you feel most productive. How can you ensure they suit your professional or personal needs? A supervisor or household meeting would be the ideal place to mention any issues.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Old wounds could be making it harder to open your heart. Thankfully, the Moon, tied to your instincts, is blessed with Chiron’s wisdom during this conjunction in your pensive 9th house. Don’t let anxiety stop you from making meaningful, lasting choices. You might rewrite a pitch so your message reflects what you truly believe, or share thoughts with a mentor who appreciates your voice. If a debate heats up, try sharing a personal story to invite real curiosity. Be willing to have tough conversations!

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Tempered focus helps you handle sensitive details. Your 8th House of Mutuality activates as the invested Moon hugs Chiron there, helping you speak gently about any delicate topics. You might review a shared bill to start a transparent conversation about the split, because small fixes prevent greater stress later. If you crave reassurance, ask for a clear timeline with a specific amount. People worth collaborating with should, at minimum, be willing to talk about such things. Once you’ve gotten the details, you can relax.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Understanding grows when you actively work toward better compromises. Partnerships need kindness as the moody Moon supports Chiron within your 7th House of One-on-One Relationships, encouraging adjustments that respect dignity. Whatever your relationship shape, a respectful boundary talk can clear tension without blame while keeping goodwill alive. If a promise slips, propose a new time and one step you will deliver, because structure reassures souls that want to stay connected. Strengthening your partnerships of any kind should be easier when you aim for fairness.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

The truth is in sight. Once the subconscious Moon connects with aching Chiron in your 6th House of Wellness, you’ll be equipped to notice how pressure affects your body more than you’d likely want to admit. Speak up for your needs! You may tell someone you need quiet for an hour to finish a task, pairing the request with an offer to help them in return. Whatever you’re doing, don’t forget to drink plenty of water and rest when necessary. Prioritize healthy pacing.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Creative curiosity can lead you to growth opportunities. Your upbeat 5th house hosts today’s conjunction between the pattern-seeking Moon and promising Chiron, shaping choices in hobbies that feel practical and fun. You might shape a project pitch into something playful and easier to try, then share a preview with a friend who can be trusted with such things. It’s okay to be nervous — just don’t let any nerves stop you from trying anyway! Your adventurous spirit thrives when courage boosts you past outdated limits.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Today favors honest, grounded family talks. Yes, this includes chosen families as well as blood relatives! Your 4th House of Roots is the center of this Moon-Chiron conjunction, reminding you to address foundational issues — not just surface concerns. You might have a household meeting about chores, letting everyone name one wish so you can shape a fair plan. If necessary, be willing to pause for water or a short walk. A little bit of structure can make your living situation more comfortable for everyone.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

When tenderness meets purpose, progress gets easier. The grounded Moon pairs with edgy Chiron in your 3rd House of Neighborhoods, prompting talks about day-to-day timing with the people around you. Let your friends and peers know when you’ll be unavailable to avoid scheduling frustrations. You could even set up a group quiet hour for focused work. If someone seems overly harsh, ask a direct question before reacting. Genuine concern prevents misunderstandings and protects your independence. Clarify plans now so teamwork keeps flowing with ease.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Trusting your gut may not be as easy as it sounds. Fortunately, you’ve got the guidance of the Moon and Chiron in your 2nd House of Money and Self-Worth. They’re helping you keep an eye on your spending! Before buying a gadget, make sure you actually need it. If a rate negotiation makes you nervous, practice your points out loud and memorize any relevant numbers. Sticking to your budget on the small things will give you space to invest in your actual needs.

The Miami Dolphins announced a series of roster moves Saturday that ends the season for three players and brings up several other players from the practice squad for Sunday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Dolphins placed wide receiver Dee Eskridge, cornerback Isaiah Johnson and defensive tackle Benito Jones on injured reserve. In addition to being out for Sunday’s game, none of the three will return for the finale at the New England Patriots.

Johnson tore an ACL in a knee in Thursday’s practice, according to coach Mike McDaniel on Friday. Jones has a back injury, and Eskridge suffered a toe ailment in last Sunday’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.

With one of the roster spots created, Miami activated reserve offensive lineman Andrew Meyer off IR. He is a candidate to start at center if starter Aaron Brewer, who is questionable with a neck injury, can’t play.

The Dolphins also signed undrafted rookie wide receiver Theo Wease to the roster from the practice squad after he made his NFL regular season debut against the Bengals.

Miami elevated outside linebacker Derrick McLendon and offensive lineman Josh Priebe from the practice squad for Sunday. Both are bound for their first active game in the NFL.

The elevation of Priebe, along with activation of Meyer, could serve as an indication toward Brewer’s status.

The Dolphins opted against activating kicker Jason Sanders (right hip) off IR, so Riley Patterson will handle placekicking duties, as he has the previous 15 games.

 

• Celebrants participate in an African dance at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants sing the Black National Anthem at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants participate in an African dance at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)
• Celebrants gathered at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Show Caption1 of 10Celebrants participate in an African dance at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center during “Africa Rising,” a Kwanzaa Community Celebration of Kujichagulia (Self-Determination) on Saturday, December 27, 2025. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand

Student loans have long been perceived as impossible to cast off in bankruptcy. Few borrowers dare to even try.

To do so, borrowers must file a separate lawsuit, enduring a costly, stressful process that came with no guarantees. In some parts of the country, they had to prove that their financial lives were “hopeless” before a judge would be willing to wipe their student debts away.

But a recent analysis has uncovered a significant shift: The vast majority of student debtors who seek discharges in bankruptcy are getting them, in large part because of a simpler legal process that was introduced three years ago.

Borrowers have an 87% success rate in dismissing most or all of their loans in bankruptcy, according to the study by Jason Iuliano, a professor at the University of Utah’s S.J. Quinney College of Law. That is up from 61% in 2017 and more than double the rate nearly two decades ago.

“That’s strikingly high when you think about the narrative being it’s impossible to discharge,” said Iuliano, whose analysis was published this month in The American Bankruptcy Law Journal and who has been studying the issue for 15 years.

Though success rates had slowly improved over previous years, the latest increase can be largely attributed to a Biden-era change adopted by the Justice and Education Departments, which provided clearer guidelines on what types of cases would result in a loan dismissal. It also enabled borrowers to present their cases on a simplified 15-page attestation form.

Student loans aren’t discharged in bankruptcy as easily as other consumer loans, like credit cards or medical debt. Debtors need to file a separate lawsuit, known as an adversary proceeding, which many lawyers haven’t been inclined to take on.

The 3-year-old process has tried to streamline all of that. And the recent analysis indicates — at least for roughly 650 completed cases filed from mid-October 2022 through mid-November 2023 — it has been working.

‘A Scary Process but Worth the Gamble’

Amy Howdyshell, 43, a licensed practical nurse, recently won the dismissal of more than $78,000 in federal student debt, largely accumulated at a for-profit college for a business degree she never received.

She and her husband, a warehouse forklift operator, filed for bankruptcy in 2023 after he suffered extensive medical issues, including a heart attack. But Howdyshell was referred to another lawyer, Malissa Giles, who had more experience with student loans, and she thought that Howdyshell was a solid candidate. They filed their case last year.

Howdyshell, who lives in Virginia, said the school had mismanaged her financial aid and wouldn’t let her enroll during her last semester or release her transcript. She abandoned her earned credits, but she later attended a different school and became a licensed practical nurse, paying out of pocket and through employer programs.

But her old debt had cast a long shadow over her family’s finances, making it impossible to save for a down payment on a home or make progress on retirement savings.

“Now I have the financial freedom to pursue my dreams of homeownership,” Howdyshell said. “It was a scary process but worth the gamble.”

She is just one among the small fraction of borrowers who file adversary proceedings. In Iuliano’s view, the newer process hasn’t yet encouraged enough debtors, or perhaps their legal advisers, to try.

Based on prior research, he estimated that 99% of student loan debtors who filed for bankruptcy didn’t even ask the judge to consider discharging their loans.

“That is a big problem,” he added.

But a shift could be beginning. This year, 1,693 student loan debtors have filed adversary proceedings, up 12% from 2024 and more than 92% higher than in 2023, according to an analysis of public records by Stretto, a legal services and technology firm.

In Iuliano’s analysis sample, the majority of student debtors were women. The typical borrower was 47 years old and owed $115,000 in student loans, with her expenses exceeding her income by $200 each month.

In a traditional adversary proceeding, borrowers must show that their student loans are an “undue hardship,” a legal standard that Congress never defined and that courts across the country have interpreted differently. As a result, borrowers have received uneven outcomes.

Satisfying the Test, and the Judges

Many jurisdictions define undue hardship using a rigid framework known as the Brunner test.

Under Brunner, debtors must answer three questions before their debt can be dismissed: Can they currently pay the loans and maintain a minimal standard of living? Is their situation likely to persist for a significant portion of the repayment period? And have they made a good-faith effort to repay the loans?

Under the newer approach, each piece of the test becomes easier to pass if the debtor can check certain boxes. For example, if a debtor’s allowed expenses equal or exceed his or her income, that may satisfy the first question. Being over 65, or having loans in repayment status for at least 10 years, for example, would fulfill the second question.

If the federal government’s analysis finds that a borrower has satisfied the test, the Justice Department lawyers can recommend a discharge to a bankruptcy judge.

In the vast majority of cases, the judges do exactly that. But in at least two cases, the judges did not immediately usher a discharge through, even though the government had determined it was appropriate.

“Some judges are taking a more aggressive stance and not just rubber-stamping these settlements,” said Stanley Tate, a consumer lawyer who specializes in student loans.

In one case, a 68-year-old retired teacher who had heart problems and a dying partner was carrying nearly $125,000 in debt — an amount that had ballooned from the $36,000 he borrowed to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, court documents show.

Given his limited income and circumstances, it was clear — to his lawyer and to the federal government — that he was not able to pay the loan back. But the judge could not get past the fact that the borrower had repaid only $9,000; he had applied for forbearance or deferments 38 times and tried to enroll in a payment plan that would tie his payment size to his income.

“It doesn’t smell right to me,” Judge David M. Warren of U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina said during a hearing last winter. “I don’t like it, and I don’t think it’s an appropriate use of the judicial system.”

The judge wanted to hold a hearing to learn more, but the Education Department ultimately recounted the borrower’s payments, which allowed it to provide an administrative discharge in 2024 through the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, his lawyer said. That meant the borrower received relief outside court.

The legal community questioned whether the Trump administration, which has an aggressive plan to dismantle the Education Department, would want to eliminate the guidance.

A spokesperson for the Education Department said there were no plans to change the program at this time. “The department is currently focused on helping borrowers back into repayment and improving the state of the portfolio,” said Ellen Keast, the press secretary for higher education at the department.

The Justice Department, which often represents and works with the Education Department in bankruptcy cases involving federal student loans, did not immediately respond to an inquiry seeking comment.

Though the legal guidelines were introduced during the Biden administration, the first Trump administration had acknowledged that discharging debts in bankruptcy wasn’t easy: The Education Department sought public input in 2018 about the high legal standard and sought to explore whether borrowers were being “inadvertently discouraged” from pursuing relief.

Igor Roitburg, senior managing director at Stretto, which also helps lawyers screen student loan debtors and prepare documents for those who may qualify for discharges, said he didn’t expect the Trump administration to abandon the policy. Cases continue to wind their way through the system, and he expects the number of filings to grow.

“It’s also really important to understand what this process does — it is a thorough review on a case-by-case basis,” Roitburg added. Not all distressed borrowers will qualify for bankruptcy, nor will all filers be eligible for a student loan discharge, but it provides an important safety net for those who do.

More borrowers are teetering on the edge. The student loan landscape is in upheaval because of legal challenges that will end the Biden-era SAVE repayment plan, the most affordable option. Congress’ reconciliation bill this summer also dismantles the current repayment program menu and creates a new one. And forced collections and wage garnishment for federal student loans in default are ramping up again, after an extended pandemic-related pause.

The most vulnerable borrowers will be searching for alternatives.

Latife Neu, a lawyer in Seattle who has filed about 16 cases using the streamlined process, with several more in the pipeline, said she was hearing from more people seeking options, including many borrowers approaching or in retirement.

“The anxiety level among borrowers is really high right now,” she said.

This article originally appeared in The New York Times.

MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins will be looking into a mirror as well as a crystal ball when they host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their home finale. 

Here’s what they’ll see: There’s a good chance many of their key players on Sunday — quarterback Quinn Ewers, running back De’Von Achane, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, center Aaron Brewer, left tackle Patrick Paul, left guard Jonah Savaiinaea, defensive tackles Zach Sieler, Jordan Phillips and Kenneth Grant, linebacker Jordyn Brooks, edge rusher Chop Robinson, safety Dante Trader, Jr. — will be key players in 2026.

The 2026 Dolphins, whose general manager and coach haven’t been confirmed, could welcome back as many as eight offensive starters and five defensive starters along with a decent amount of youthful depth.

After all, most likely the Dolphins’ 2026 rebuild, re-tool, rebuild-on-the-fly — or whatever it gets called, will be aimed at reining in finances more than overhauling talent.

Coach Mike McDaniel doesn’t talk about 2026. He maintains he’s only looking at 2025 and trying to beat the Buccaneers (7-8), who are still fighting for a spot in the postseason.

But owner Steve Ross and fans are likely looking ahead to 2026, when young, low-priced labor becomes more of a necessity. 

McDaniel acknowledges that he has conversations with interim general manager Champ Kelly that have overlapping benefits.

“I think the bigger thing is (that) having an open dialogue of who gives us the best chance to win has been very beneficial this particular year with the given roster we have,” McDaniel said.

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To that end, one goal for the 2025 season was trying to win with youth and draftees. The Dolphins (6-9) haven’t won, but they’ve played a number of young players and all of their draftees.

Begin at quarterback where Ewers, the rookie seventh-round pick, will make his second consecutive start against Tampa Bay. Ewers has his eyes firmly set on beating the Buccaneers. But he’s aware good performances in these final few games could earn him a shot at a starting job in 2026.

“To be honest, I’m not really thinking about that right now,” Ewers said, before later adding. “At the end of the day, whatever happens, happens; but I hope to put myself in a position for sure to be in the mix whenever the time comes.”

In the bigger picture, consider all the Dolphins’ key players on Sunday who will be key players in 2026.

In the backfield, Achane, a Pro Bowl selection who will likely seek a contract extension this offseason, will return for 2026 as well as fullback Alec Ingold, a Pro Bowl first alternate.

Waddle, a Pro Bowl first alternate, is another returning starter. 

On the offensive line Paul, Savaiinaea, Brewer and right tackle Austin Jackson are all scheduled to return.

Defensively, Sieler, Phillips and Grant, the first-round pick, return along with Brooks, fellow linebacker Tyrel Dodson and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (who won’t play Sunday due to a calf injury).

Of course, there will be some 2026 uncertainty among those on the field Sunday.

Behind the aforementioned returning starters are a group of veteran starters or key contributors who are either on one-year contracts in 2025 or in the final year of their contracts such as defensive tackle Benito Jones, cornerbacks Jack Jones and Rasul Douglas, and safeties Ashtyn Davis and Iffy Melinfonwu. It’s unclear who returns among this group.

Outside linebacker Bradley Chubb, who will cost $31.2 million against the salary cap next season, might be in a class by himself as a high-salaried veteran starter who could be on his way out the door. Well, benched quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and the injured wide receiver Tyreek Hill are also in that category but technically they’re neither starters nor major contributors at this point.

The Dolphins knew what they had to do in 2025 to set themselves up for 2026, and to a certain extent they can say they succeeded.

For example, six of this year’s eight draftees have started at least one game this season, and all eight could get playing time Sunday. Many are headed for big roles on the 2026 team. 

“That’s a calculated measure that I think, especially in today’s salary cap era where 45 percent of players are new really on every team, it’s that much more important guys that you have on a committed four- to five-year contract that they will end up painting the picture of what type of team you are based on their character and how they handle themselves,” McDaniel said. 

“It’s a bright spot that I’ll surely reflect on after it is reflection time. But right now it’s Tampa time.” 

Dolphins Deep Dive: Prediction time — Will Ewers, Miami defeat Bucs? | VIDEO

Dolphins (6-9) vs. Buccaneers (7-8)

Kickoff: 1 p.m., Sunday, Hard Rock Stadium

TV: FOX (Ch. 7 in Miami-Dade, Broward counties; Ch. 29 in Palm Beach); RADIO: WBGG (105.9-FM), WIOD (610-AM), WTZU (94.9-FM, Spanish); Palm Beach: ESPN (106.3 FM); WEFL (760-AM, Spanish)


Coaches: The Dolphins’ Mike McDaniel is 34-34, including the playoffs, in his fourth season as a head coach; the Buccaneers’ Todd Bowles is 61-76 in his eighth season among Miami (interim), the New York Jets and Tampa Bay.

Series: The Buccaneers lead the all-time series, 7-5. Tampa Bay has won the past three, but the teams haven’t played since 2021.

Weather: 77 degrees, 61 percent humidity; 0 percent chance of precipitation, 4 mph winds from E, gusts up to 7 mph.


Line: The Buccaneers are 6-point favorites; the over-under is 44 points.

Injuries: Dolphins — Out: S Minkah Fitzpatrick (calf), DT Benito Jones (back), CB Isaiah Johnson (knee); Doubtful: WR Dee Eskridge (toe); Questionable: C Aaron Brewer (neck), LB Tyrel Dodson (chest), OL Andrew Meyer (triceps), K Jason Sanders (right hip); Physically unable to perform: OL Liam Eichenberg; Injured reserve: WR Tyreek Hill (knee), RG James Daniels (pectoral), Sanders, Meyer, CB Storm Duck (knee), CB JuJu Brents (ankle), DB Jordan Colbert (neck), LB Caleb Johnson (shoulder), CB Kader Kohou (knee), RB Alexander Mattison (neck), CB Artie Burns (knee), TE Jalin Conyers, CB Jason Maitre, OL Obinna Eze, OL Germain Ifedi, OL Yodny Cajuste …

Buccaneers — Out: OLB Calijah Kancey (pectoral/IR), OLB Anthony Nelson (knee), OT Tristan Wirfs (toe); Injured reserve: G Cody Mauch among eight players on list.

Noteworthy: Miami ranks No. 2 in rushing yards since its Week 10 win against Buffalo at 160.2 yards per game. …

The Dolphins are No. 5 in third down defense (32.7 percent) since that win over Buffalo. …

Unfortunately, the the Dolphins have allowed four of their past seven opponents to rush for 100 or more yards and they’ve gone 1-3 in those games. … 

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RB De’Von Achane (1,267 yards rushing) is No. 3 in the league in rushing yards and No. 1 in yards per carry (5.8). … 

QB Quinn Ewers (0 TDs, 2 INTs, 69.3 passer rating) is making his second start and third appearance of the season. …

Ewers displayed a good huddle presence, a lively arm and good pocket awareness last week against Cincinnati and should be better this week. …

DT Zach Sieler (5.5 sacks) has 4.5 sacks in the past three games. …

LB Jordyn Brooks (169 tackles) leads the league in tackles. … 

Tampa Bay is on a three-game losing streak and has lost six of its past seven games. …

The Buccaneers have a 55 percent chance to make the playoffs with their odds increasing if they win Sunday. …

Bucs WR Emeka Egbuka (59 receptions, 910 yards, 6 TDs) is among the league’s best young talents. WR Mike Evans (25 receptions, 303 yards, 2 TDs) must always be watched. …

Tampa Bay QB Baker Mayfield (23 TDs, 8 INTs, 90.0 passer rating) has lost his magic this season as the injuries mount but remains a threat to ignite the offense. …

Bucs DT Vita Vea (28 tackles, 4.5 sacks) is a force in the interior.

Dolphins Deep Dive: Prediction time — Will Ewers, Miami defeat Bucs? | VIDEO

MIAMI — For Pelle Larsson, there is only one speed. Even when the second-year Miami Heat guard was out of view, it was still a matter of life in the fast lane.

So five games out due to a sprained ankle and then immediately injected into the starting lineup? No problem, as evidenced by Larsson’s 21 points in Friday night’s 126-111 road victory over the Atlanta Hawks.

“You should have seen his rehab sessions,” coach Erik Spoelstra said, as the Heat turned their attention to Saturday night’s visit by the Indiana Pacers to Kaseya Center. “Whether it was on the bike initially, it was just all out — almost a level of throwing up. I walked in on one of those sessions.

“And then also his court sessions, he just pushes the envelope. And so, he had the conditioning. It’s different than game conditioning.”

Yet determined to make it back as quickly as possible and as ready as possible — minus the projectiles.

“I can’t say I was going to vomit,” Larsson said of those grueling rehab sessions. “We were working really, really hard, going up and down with the guys who weren’t playing. I was still pretty gassed.

“But game by game it’s going to get better.”

The first game back was plenty good enough, with the 2024 second-round pick out of Arizona 9 of 13 from the field in 29:40, including 3 of 4 on 3-pointers, with six rebounds and five assists.

“He’s a gamer,” Heat guard Norman Powell said. “He’s not only a gamer, he’s a game changer just with his physicality and energy effort on both sides of the floor. He kept plays alive, made it tough and difficult for every matchup he was on —  putting his face into plays, getting fouls.

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“We missed that about him, continuing to make winning plays whenever he’s on the floor.”

That led to a postgame debate of whether or how many times Larsson got hit in the face. Larsson said he did not feel any such contact, but Powell said Larsson was selling himself short.

Regardless, the energy and effort were real.

“For sure, for sure,” guard Jaime Jaquez Jr. said. “We’re so happy to have him back in this lineup. He’s the ultimate energy guy, really just gives everybody life and the spark that we desperately needed.

“So the fact that he was able to come in after so many games missed and just play like that just shows how hard of a worker and how great of a player he is.”

Jovic, too

Also back Friday was forward Nikola Jovic, who missed four games with an elbow contusion.

While Jovic’s shooting struggles continued, going 3 of 14 for 10 points, he also had seven rebounds and four assists, with the Heat outscoring Atlanta by 10 in his 21:13.

“I think this was a good step for him to be able to contribute and impact the game without making shots,” Spoelstra said. “And you didn’t see some of the body language that sometimes has happened if he misses layups or misses open threes or has a turnover. He just got on to the next play and tried to help contribute to the next play.

“And he did some very good things. When he gets in better rhythm, I have no doubt that the shooting will be better. But you don’t want to just be reliant on whether the ball goes in and whether you can impact the game. So that was a good step.”

Heartening, Jovic said.

“During this time that I was injured, I talked a lot to assistant coaches and some of the people from the Heat and they helped me find a way to get back and to play quicker, just trying to think about the next play,” Jovic said.

Out again

The Heat on Saturday afternoon ruled out Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro against the Pacers.

It is the second consecutive game Adebayo has missed due to lower-back pain.

It is the ninth game that Herro has missed due to a toe contusion, having appeared in only six games this season, after September ankle surgery.

The only other players ruled out against the Pacers were two-way players Vlad Goldin and Jahmir Young, who are  in the G League, and guard Terry Rozier, who remains on NBA leave due to the FBI gambling investigation.

Today is Friday, Dec. 26, the 360th day of 2025. There are five days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Dec. 26, 1908, Jack Johnson became the first Black boxer to win the world heavyweight championship as he defeated Canadian Tommy Burns in Sydney, Australia.

Also on this date:

In 1941, during World War II, Winston Churchill became the first British prime minister to address a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress, just two weeks after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor that plunged the U.S. into the war.

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In 1966, Kwanzaa was first celebrated, a seven-day holiday to help African Americans reconnect with their African heritage.

In 1990, Nancy Cruzan, a young woman in an irreversible vegetative state whose case led to a U.S. Supreme Court decision on the right to die, died at a Missouri hospital.

In 1991, the USSR was formally dissolved through a declaration by the Supreme Soviet.

In 2004, a 9.1-magnitude earthquake beneath the Indian Ocean off the Indonesian island of Sumatra triggered a tsunami with waves up to 100 feet high that killed about 230,000 people across a dozen countries as far as East Africa. The worst-affected countries were Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India and Thailand.

In 2006, former President Gerald R. Ford died in Rancho Mirage, California, at age 93.

In 2021, South African Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu died at 90; the retired archbishop had been an uncompromising foe of apartheid and a modern-day activist for racial justice and LGBTQ rights.

Today’s Birthdays:

• “America’s Most Wanted” host John Walsh is 80.
• Baseball Hall of Fame catcher Carlton Fisk is 78.
• Baseball Hall of Famer Ozzie Smith is 71.
• Humorist David Sedaris is 69.
• Rock musician Lars Ulrich (Metallica) is 62.
• Actor-musician Jared Leto is 54.
• Rock singer Chris Daughtry is 46.
• Actor Beth Behrs is 40.
• Actor Kit Harington is 39.

Here are the fall 2025 All-County honorees, covering top high school athletes from Palm Beach County in football, swimming, girls volleyball, cross country, golf and bowling. The section will be published in the newspaper on Sunday.

FOOTBALL

Palm Beach 7A-5A football offensive player of the year: Javian Mallory, West Boca Raton senior

Palm Beach 7A-5A football defensive player of the year: Jamar Thompson, West Boca Raton junior

Palm Beach 7A-5A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach 7A-5A football defense first team and second team

Palm Beach 4A-1A football offensive player of the year: Jyron Hughley, Cardinal Newman senior

Palm Beach 4A-1A football co-defensive players of the year: Adam Balogoun-Ali, Cardinal Newman senior; Levi Champion, King’s Academy junior

Palm Beach 4A-1A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach 4A-1A football defense first team and second team

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Palm Beach 7A-5A girls volleyball player of the year: Macy McAmis, Jupiter senior

Palm Beach 7A-5A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach 4A-1A girls volleyball co-players of the year: Ella Brodner, Jupiter Christian senior; Hannah VanZwieten, Boca Raton Christian sophomore

Palm Beach 4A-1A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

SWIMMING AND DIVING

Palm Beach boys swimmer of the year: Andreas Da Silva, Wellington senior

Palm Beach boys swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach girls swimmer of the year: Feagin Kaminski, Benjamin sophomore

Palm Beach girls swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

CROSS COUNTRY

Palm Beach boys cross country runner of the year: Preston Sangely, Spanish River senior

Palm Beach boys cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach girls cross country runner of the year: Katelyn O’Brien, Boca Raton senior

Palm Beach girls cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

GOLF

Palm Beach boys golfer of the year: Hampton Beebe, Dwyer senior

Palm Beach boys golf first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach girls bowler of the year: Carly Perrin, Somerset Academy Canyons senior

Palm Beach girls golf first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

BOWLING

Palm Beach co-boys bowlers of the year: Mateo Ruiz, Park Vista sophomore; Jayden Brown, Dr. Joaquin Garcia junior

Palm Beach boys bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Palm Beach girls bowler of the year: Carly Perrin, Somerset Academy Canyons senior

Palm Beach girls bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

 

Here are the fall 2025 All-County honorees, covering top high school athletes from Broward County in football, swimming, girls volleyball, cross country, golf and bowling. The section will be published in the newspaper on Sunday.

FOOTBALL

Broward 7A-5A football offensive player of the year: Mason Mallory, St. Thomas Aquinas senior

Broward 7A-5A football defensive player of the year: Jermiyah Douglas, St. Thomas Aquinas senior

Broward 7A-5A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward 7A-5A football defense first team and second team

Broward 4A-1A football offensive player of the year: Derrek Cooper, Chaminade-Madonna senior

Broward 4A-1A football defensive player of the year: Terrance Johnson, American Heritage senior; Bryant Junius, Chaminade-Madonna senior

Broward 4A-1A football offense first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward 4A-1A football defense first team and second team

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Broward 7A-5A girls volleyball player of the year: Isabella Sangha, St. Thomas Aquinas senior; Juliana Lugo, Archbishop McCarthy junior

Broward 7A-5A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward 4A-1A girls volleyball player of the year: Dasia Johnson, North Broward Prep senior

Broward 4A-1A girls volleyball first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

SWIMMING AND DIVING

Broward boys swimmer of the year: Juan Vallmitjana, University School junior

Broward boys swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward girls diver of the year: Juliet Radich, Cardinal Gibbons senior

Broward girls swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

CROSS COUNTRY

Broward boys cross country co-runners of the year: David Lazo, South Plantation junior; Wills Gillis, North Broward Prep senior

Broward boys cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward girls cross country runner of the year: Abigail Richards, Dillard senior

Broward girls cross country first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

GOLF

Broward boys golfer of the year: Sohan Patel, American Heritage junior 

Broward boys swimming first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward girls golfer of the year: Lilly Riegger, American Heritage senior

Broward girls golf first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

BOWLING

Broward boys bowler of the year: Ryder Willman, McArthur junior

Broward boys bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

Broward girls bowler of the year: Sofia Montefusco, South Plantation senior  

Broward girls bowling first team, second team, honorable mention and coach of the year

 

 

When Mason Mallory left the 2024 6A state champion West Boca Raton program and transferred to St. Thomas Aquinas, there was no guarantee he would wind up being the starter.

After all, senior quarterback Brady Palmer, a Temple commit, transferred in and was the penciled-in starter in the fall, with Mallory listed No. 3 on the depth chart.

“When I first met Coach Roger Harriott, and looked him in his eyes, I told him I was going to get him another one,” said Mallory, who did just that as he became the starter and helped the Raiders win a state record seventh straight state championship, and 17th overall.

“I just wanted to be a part of a culture where the coaches prepare you for the next level,” Mallory said. “I needed that to become the best player possible. “I’m forever thankful for Brady and everything he’s done for me. We kind of work together as one quarterback, and the standard is playing to glorify Christ, and that’s all we do.”

In the 29-0 5A state championship win, Mallory was 21 for 32 for 265 yards, and also did it with his legs rushing for 106 yards and a TD as the Raiders (14-1) finished the year on a 14-game winning streak, after it dropped the season opener to then MaxPreps No. 1 Mater Dei (Calif.), 26-23. Before the final, Mallory accounted for four TDs in each of the three regional games, his first such streak.

“Definitely, it was one of the greatest teams I’ve ever been a part of,” Mallory said. He finished the season throwing for 2,322 yards and 23 TDs, and added 760 yards and nine scores on the ground. A 68-yard TD run in the regular-season finale against Chaminade-Madonna was the longest of his career. He also had a 67-yard run in the state final. “I have a group of people here, players and coaches, who really believed in me.

“It was a tiny bit of a culture shock at first,” Mallory said of the transition of going from West Boca to St. Thomas Aquinas, and leaving his cousin Javian Mallory, a UM commit, behind. “At St. Thomas, they do everything like basically college, but definitely with the help of my teammates helped me become a better football player, and a better man. They are big on faith, and I was glad to be a part of that. Winning a seventh straight title for the school was the goal from when I first stepped on the campus.”

Mallory will now look to help the boys’ basketball team win a second straight championship. Mallory is a point guard.

“Mason has proven to be a true competitor with exceptional leadership skills,” said St. Thomas Aquinas coach Roger Harriott. “His ability to remain poised through adverse situations has enabled him to lead us to victory through challenging moments. He’s a phenomenal player and an even better person.”

Mason Mallory, from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, football player of the year, photographed on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

If you were ever looking for the definition of a Swiss Army Knife in high school football, look no further than St. Thomas Aquinas cornerback and athlete Jermiyah Douglas.

Douglas, a two-year team captain, played a vital role in the Raiders securing their state record seventh straight Class 5A state championship, and 17th overall, with a 29-0 victory over Lakeland at Pitbull Stadium on the campus of FIU. He had a 26-yard punt return to set up a score.

The Western Carolina University commit had four interceptions, a fumble recovery, 11 passes broken up, 38 solo tackles, a sack and three other tackles for loss. He said he embraced the role because of his versatility.

“Wherever the coaches needed me to play me anywhere, I’m always available and could just do what I’m told to do,” said Douglas, who returned a kickoff 96 yards for a TD in the preseason game. “Winning my fourth state championship here at the school is rare, and not many people can say they have done that.”

St. Thomas Aquinas also avenged a 29-22 setback last year to Chaminade-Madonna with a 27-21 victory at home. Douglas blocked a field goal with 6:28 remaining in the game, which would have knotted the game at 24-24.

When Douglas enrolled at St. Thomas Aquinas as a freshman, he wasn’t sure what to expect. However, the upperclassmen helped him adapt and improve as a player. He returned the favor this season, working with the younger players, and said the cultural experience of traveling to London to play the NFL Academy provided a memorable bonding experience for the team.

“Every day, we go out, and we compete against some of the best of the best players in the country, so when we get to a state championship game, there isn’t much we haven’t seen,” said Douglas, who became a full-time starter in his junior year.  “I think it started to click for me after my sophomore year.”

“Jermiyah epitomizes consistency as a successful player and productive leader,” St. Thomas Aquinas coach Roger Harriott said. “His powerful spirit and positive personality have been a blessing to our team and the (St. Thomas Aquinas) community.

“He made the type of impact that influenced and inspired his teammates to be great on and off the field,” Harriott added. “He’s an extraordinary role model and talented leader with his best blessings ahead of him.”

Jermiyah Douglas, from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, football player of the year, photographed on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

FIRST TEAM Lorvens Barthelemy, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Lorvens Barthelemy, T, Monarch senior: The Akron commit is third in school history with 63 pancakes in a season; held a 5-star recruit to zero sacks and pressures; helped Knights to 5,400 yards, including 48 TDs on offense, two district titles, and two playoff appearances.

Jabari Brady, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Jabari Brady, WR/DB, Monarch senior: The Missouri commit had 64 receptions for 1,118 receiving yards, 12 touchdowns, and 1,300 all-purpose yards; first player at school to have back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons; career highlight is being able to contribute to his island (Jamaica), giving back to them with clothes, shoes, books, and pencils.

Kamary Cooper, South Plantation, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Kamary Cooper, RB, South Plantation junior: Team captain led the county and state in 6A in rushing with 1,839 yards and 24 TDs; 517 receiving yards on 40 catches; two-year starter had nine 100-yard games and three 200-yard games; school-record eight straight 100-yard games; deadlifts 450 pounds.

Ben Gula, Cypress Bay, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Ben Gula, T, Cypress Bay senior: The Colorado commit was a 42-game starter, an ESPN Top 500, 250+ career pancakes, including 60 pancakes and five pressures this season; one sack allowed in 1,500 snaps over four seasons, first-team all-state.

Florentino Lopez, Monarch, Football.Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Florentino Lopez, QB, Monarch senior: Four-year captain had 9,143 career passing yards, 65 TDs and 10 INT; led Knights to three district championships; totaled 2,743 yards passing yards, 22 TDs, and 546 rushing yards and 10 TDs.

Mark Matthews, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Mark Matthews, T, St. Thomas Aquinas junior: The 6-foot-6, 300-pound left tackle is a two-sport star for the Raiders; won state titles in basketball and football last season; starting left tackle for St. Thomas Aquinas; the 5-star recruit had 20 pancakes and helped pave the way for the Raiders to get 5,211 yards.

A’mir Sears, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

A’mir Sears, ATH, West Broward sophomore: Two-way player contributed 942 yards receiving and 11 TDs, including a 99-yard reception against Cardinal Gibbons; was a MaxPreps freshman All-American as a defensive back; had 50 tackles and three interceptions as the Bobcats made the state finals for the first time.

Dylan Steen, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Dylan Steen, OL, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Team captain and three-time state champion is a Mississippi State commit; three-star prospect didn’t allow a sack all season.

Jordan Thompson, Coconut Creek, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Jordan Thompson, RB, Coconut Creek senior: Ran for 234 yards against Atlantic; captain named both offensive and team MVP; 722 rushing yards, 349 receiving yards, 13 TDs; helped Cougars to a 9-3 record and district runner-up spot.

Jahnard Young, Piper, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Jahnard Young, RB, Piper junior: Led Bengals with 1,395 rushing yards and 20 TDs; added 114 receiving yards and 1 TD; is a three-year starter; benches 315; said football teaches him discipline; also runs track.

Julius Jones Jr., St. Thomas Aquinas, Football. All-County, Deerfield Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Julius Jones, Jr., WR, St. Thomas Aquinas junior: Four-star prospect caught seven passes for a game-high 140 yards in the Raiders’ 29-0 victory in the 5A state championship win over Lakeland for a state-record seventh consecutive title; had 750 yards receiving 14 TDs.

2025 Broward Fall All County First Team: Kenson Louis; McArthur; 2025 Fall All County 4A-1A football First Team. (McArthur Athletics/Courtesy)

Kenson Louis, RB, McArthur senior: Led 5A with 1,069 rushing yards and 6 TDs; paced the Mustangs to an upset win over Atlantic with 134 rushing yards and had 104 yards rushing in a loss to St. Thomas Aquinas; also helped McArthur to a 10-3 record and second round playoff game.

 

SECOND TEAM

Amos Bradford, RB, West Broward junior

Gerren Bray, OL, St. Thomas Aquinas junior

Santana Carlos, WR, Flanagan senior

Jayden Chico, QB, Dillard senior

Damian Dickenson, RB, Western senior

Bryan Granger, OL, West Broward senior

Melvin Hayward, OL, Flanagan senior

Virgil Lemons, RB, St. Thomas Aquinas junior

Brandin Mincey, QB, West Broward senior

Keshawn Paschall, RB, Monarch sophomore

Jabaree Riggins, WR, Monarch senior

Dylan Zaldumbide, WR, South Plantation senior

HONORABLE MENTION

Coconut Creek: Carlos Alce, Cayden Delions, Tevin Sutherland

Cooper City: Rubin Cesar, Ace Taylor, Jake Wallace

Coral Glades: Anthony Casseus, James Griffin, Joe Kogan, Julian Madero, Bryan Pierre, Ryan Pierre, Romeo Williams

Cypress Bay: Jalin Agudelo, Peyton Lammare, Kaden Langford, Jayden Mendez, Michael Millar

Deerfield Beach: Gavin Almonard

Flanagan: Ahmad Adams, Devon Blatch, Chance Humphrey, Jaden McGee, Malik Miller, Jacob Thomas, Jahmar Williams

Hollywood Hills: Mario Agnant, Gareus Nanton

McArthur: Dylan Casimir, Jordan Davis, Robert Ortega, Semaj Robinson, Troy Smith

Miramar: Ka’nard Boucard

Monarch: Juwan Dawkins, Amari Deer, Contreas Faison Jr., Jamar Hudson, Nicholas Soto

Nova: Nathaniel Hunningham, Tyler Smith

Pembroke Pines Charter: Michael Akinbehinje, Josiah Knight

St. Thomas Aquinas: Mekhi Bradley, Gerren Bray, Isaiah Calixte, Quyis Daley, Michael Digilio, Chase Goodrich

South Broward: Kameron Pelayo, Jamari Ritter, Derrick Simmons, Steven Wright

South Plantation: Kaleb DeClaire

Stoneman Douglas: Scott Walker

Taravella: Eddie James, Amir Sameem

West Broward: Daquan Adderly, Cameron Goodwin, Malik Miller, Kedarius Rhaney, Alejandro Schmitt

Western: Silas Allen, Russell George, Levi Hoss, Jack Spader, Caleb Williams

CO-COACHES OF THE YEAR Brian McCartney, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Brian McCartney, West Broward: In his sixth season, he led the Bobcats to the state championship game, the school’s first, despite not having a home field. “We are true road warriors. We don’t have a home field and have played 64 road games. Compared to a lot of the private (schools), it’s an uphill battle all day long, but our team has done a great job, along with our administration and our coaching staff.”

Roger Harriott, St. Thomas Aquinas, Football. Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Roger Harriott, St. Thomas Aquinas: Guided Raiders to a 14-1 record and state-record seventh consecutive state championship with a 29-0 win over Lakeland; has a career record of 220-30 with 9 state championships in 11 state championship appearances. “I’m personally most proud of the spiritual devotion this particular team has for our faith in God and representing the “Champions 4 Christ” season theme. They have elevated our program beyond secular norms by spiritually prepping to win with group prayers, Bible study sessions, and gospel music as our source of motivation.”

 

FIRST TEAM Christian Davis, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Christian Davis, CB, Monarch senior: Three-star prospect; three-year starter provided coverage against top receivers and finished with 13 solo tackles, and 32 tackles overall; had first career pick-6; career highlight was upsetting Chaminade-Madonna last season; University of North Dakota signee.

Alex Gammage, Piper, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Alex Gammage, CB, Piper senior: Captain had 6 INTs, 2  fumble recoveries, 16 passes defended, 14 solo tackles; three-year starter made multiple all-star games; 2023 district champs; had 5 TDs on offense and special teams: one rushing, two receiving, one on a punt return and one throwing; contributed 187 all-purpose yards; had clinching INT in first-round win over Flanagan.

Phillip Goodrich, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Phillip Goodrich, LB, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Captain is headed to West Point; runs 40 in 4.56; three-time state champion; two-year starter; squats 585 pounds, deadlifts 605 and benches 350; had 102 tackles, including 64 solo; 16 TFL, 5 sacks, INT; held 19 D1 offers.

Uryah McCartney, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Uryah McCartney, LB, West Broward senior: Captain finished season with 72 tackles, 9.5 TFL, 2 FF, 5 sacks and an INT; said his career highlight was helping lead the Bobcats to their first state championship appearance with his father, Brian, as coach.

Travis McGill Jr. Flanagan, Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Travis McGill Jr., DE, Flanagan senior: Team captain and two-time MVP for the team; 11 forced fumbles, 24 solo tackles, 55 total tackles, 26 tackles for loss; top 90 in sacks in the country; ranked 16th in Florida for sacks with 17 sacks.

Dasean Miller, Monarch, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Dasean Miller, Edge, Monarch senior: Team captain had INT, fumble recovery, three forced fumbles and 63 solo tackles; 23 TFL, with 15 sacks; had fumble recovery for a touchdown; district champion.

Daniel Norman, St. Thomas Aquinas. Football. Daniel Norman, St.Thomas. Football.Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Daniel Norman, Edge, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Sun Sentinel 2025 Super 11 selection is a 4-star recruit; team captain; had 31 tackles, forced four fumbles; Oklahoma commit had six tackles, two sacks, two TFL in state championship win over Lakeland for record seventh straight state title.

Wyatt Smith, St.Thomas. Football. Deerfield Beach on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Wyatt Smith, DL, St. Thomas Aquinas junior: Named player of the game four times this season; had 110 tackles, including 59 solo tackles; 3 fumble recoveries, 3 forced fumbles, 5 passes defended, 11 sacks and 22 TFL; said flying to London as a team to play the NFL Academy was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tyler Tindal, West Broward, Football. Deerfield Beach on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Tyler Tindal, LB/SS, West Broward sophomore: Helped lead the Bobcats (12-3) to their first Class 6A state championship game appearance by recording 93 tackles, including 75 solo and nine for loss and five sacks; finished season with six tackles, including 1.5 for loss in state championship game loss to two-time defending state champion West Boca.

Justice Fitzpatrick, St. Thomas Aquinas, Football. All-County, Deerfield Beach, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2024. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Justice Fitzpatrick, ATH, St. Thomas Aquinas senior: Two-time Super 11 selection helped Raiders to a seventh consecutive state championship, a state record, along with his fourth; also shook off injury to record 12 catches for 194 yards and two TDs, in addition to 15 tackles on defense; University of Georgia signee; brother of Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.

2025 Broward Fall All County First Team: Debonaire Johnson; McArthur; 2025 Fall All County 7A-5A football First Team. (McArthur Athletics/Courtesy)

Debonaire Johnson, LB, McArthur junior: Two-time Sun Sentinel first-team all-county, and two-time MaxPreps All American; had 174 tackles sophomore year; 3-year starter, 2-time district champion; 45 solo tackles, 12 TFL, 4 sacks, 2 blocked punts, blocked field goal; 16 tackles in regional quarterfinal win over Atlantic.

Jaylin Jones; McArthur; All County 7A-5A football First Team. (Western Athletics/Courtesy)

Jaylin Jones, FS, McArthur junior: Two-time All-County selection had 37 tackles, including 14 for losses and 10.5 sacks; 4-year-starter, benches 500 pounds; state high school 400-meter track champion; UM commit.

 

SECOND TEAM

Donovan Adras, SS, St. Thomas Aquinas senior

Jalin Agudelo, LB, Cypress Bay sophomore

Shmar Akand, DB, West Broward senior

Jaden Carey, DB, St. Thomas Aquinas junior

Jahmani Chin-Suer, FS, Piper senior

Jason Farfan, DL, West Broward senior

Zayden Gamble, DB, St. Thomas Aquinas junior

Jakari Johnson, DB, McArthur senior

Jayden Joselin, DB, Monarch senior

Jonah Lenamon, LB/DE, Stoneman Douglas senior

Travis McGill, DE, Flanagan senior

Michael Millar, S, Cypress Bay senior

Conrad Tolerico, P, St. Thomas Aquinas senior

Bryce Williams, CB, Western junior

 

Derrek Cooper accomplished just about everything he wanted to short of helping Chaminade-Madonna win a fifth straight 1A state championship.

The senior running back, a five-star recruit and team captain, is headed to the University of Texas, and did his part to help the Lions (11-3) reach a state-record 10th straight championship game; however, for the first time in five years, Chaminade-Madonna lost the title game, falling to South Florida rival Cardinal Newman.

Cooper finished the year with 160 rushes for a career-high 1,597 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also added 8 catches for 115 yards and one TD. He earned the Nat Moore Trophy as South Florida’s top high school football player. He transferred to Chaminade-Madonna from Cardinal Gibbons right before his junior season.

Although he has played multiple positions, such as running back, linebacker, safety, defensive line, and quarterback, he focused mainly on running back this season.

“I want to do anything to help my team win,” Cooper said. “Coach (Dameon) Jones just says, ‘go to linebacker, go to safety, go to D line, go to quarterback,’ and I just do it.”

Cooper said he wants to be remembered for his “authenticity, humility, and hard-hitting playing style,” not for showmanship. He also describes a “mean streak” that emerges on the field, contrasting with his typically quiet demeanor. He’s looking forward to starting the next chapter.

“I’m expecting the same thing (at Texas), but just at a different place,” Cooper said. “I would like to start there, and I am looking forward to maybe taking handoffs from (American Heritage quarterback) Dia Bell. That would be amazing. I felt (Texas was a great fit for my family and me.

“We rotated here with all of the great running backs we have,” Cooper said. “It keeps us fresh and keeps everyone healthy. We had some great players at Chaminade, so I think that prepared me for whatever I am going to face in college. I want to be remembered as someone who didn’t act ‘Hollywood,’ just someone who does what they are supposed to do.”

Derrek Cooper from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory, football player of the year, photographed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

American Heritage senior defensive back Terrance Johnson and Chaminade Madonna senior linebacker and safety Bryant Junius both played key roles in their teams’ runs to the state championship games at Pitbull Stadium on the campus of Florida International University in Miami.

Johnson led the county with 12 interceptions, including two key picks against rival Archbishop McCarthy en route to a second straight 4A championship. They rallied to defeat Orlando Jones for a second consecutive time in the state title game.  Johnson had three tackles, but provided a key interception to hold off a Jones rally as the Patriots prevailed 33-28.

Johnson added a fumble recovery, a forced fumble, 3 passes defended, 52 total tackles, including 30 solo and two TDs for the Patriots (9-5), who rallied from a 1-3 start and 4-5 record before the playoffs to win five straight. They also cracked the top-100 rankings to finish 98th in the latest MaxPreps rankings.

Johnson transferred to American Heritage from South Broward and said it was a big difference. He knows that some top defensive backs have preceded him there, including two-time All-Pro Patrick Surtain II, the NFL’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2024.

“I grind it every day, put the work in, and work and dedication paid off,” Johnson said. “It’s a whole different ballgame from public schools. When I actually got here, I saw what they were talking about. They have a lot of good defensive backs who have gone on and had some success in the NFL. I hope to be like that someday.”

Terrance Johnson from American Heritage High School, football player of the year, photographed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Junius also had a stellar season for the No. 88 Lions (11-3), who dropped a 17-14 decision to Cardinal Newman in the 1A state championship tilt. Junius contributed nine tackles in the loss, which snapped a streak of four state championships in a row.

The Appalachian State University commit ended the season with 102 tackles, 16 tackles for loss (including four sacks), eight pass deflections and two forced fumbles. He was the team captain for the past two seasons and said his career highlight was a pick-6 on ESPN in his sophomore season.

“I want my legacy at the school to be remembered as a selfless team player, willing to do anything for my teammates,” said Junius, whose college destination will be in the cold, something he’s never experienced before. “Daily practices were always highly competitive due to the team’s depth, with both offense and defense pushing each other to improve. “I was a team player, and I’ll do anything for the team for my team, and I can’t do anything without my team and my coaches.”

Bryant Junius from Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory, football player of the year, photographed on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.(Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)