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Taylor Swift shocked fans Sunday night when she announced a new album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” during an acceptance speech after winning best pop vocal album at the  66th Annual Grammy Awards.

For months, Swifties everywhere had been anticipating Swift announcing the release of her re-recording of “reputation (Taylor’s Version),” thinking the Grammys might have been the night it happened.

All’s fair in love and poetry… New album THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT. Out April 19

MIAMI – Observations and other notes of interest from Sunday night’s 103-95 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers:

–  There were times when Josh Richardson appeared he was going to be shuffled out of the Heat mix.

– And for one game, against the Knicks in New York, he was.

– Then Duncan Robinson banged his head on the court at Madison Square Garden, with NBA concussion protocol following.

– Then Kyle Lowry was traded.

– And Sunday, there was no Tyler Herro, whose headache could have been a Heat headache when Herro was ruled out.

– To his credit, after a shaky, injury-marred start to the season, Richardson has come around as a contributor.

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– His play in Sunday’s third quarter kept Kawhi Leonard from putting it away at that stage for the Clippers.

– Yes, it wasn’t there when needed late.

– But it also is not as if Richardson was added to be a closer.

– Considering how little the Heat have sowed from their other veteran offseason addition in Thomas Bryant, Richardson to a degree has salvaged free agency.

– Sunday he stepped in as a starter.

– And lately he has consistently stepped up when needed.

– That bodes well for the balance of the season.

– The Heat had planned to continue with their post-trade opening lineup of Bam Adebayo, Haywood Highsmith, Jimmy Butler, Herro and Terry Rozier.

– Until . . . Herro was listed out 22 minutes before the opening tip with his headache.

– So, instead, Richardson started in his place.

– Which meant lineup No. 26 for the Heat in Game 50.

– The Clippers opened with James Harden, Terance Mann, Paul George, Leonard, and Ivica Zubac.

– With Zubac back from his calf injury, it was the first time the Clippers opened with that lineup since Jan. 12.

– Kevin Love and Jaime Jaquez Jr. entered together in the Heat’s first substitution.

– Caleb Martin then followed.

– With Herro and Robinson out, Erik Spoelstra stayed with that eight-player rotation,

– While now a staple in the starting lineup, Highsmith largely had been limited solely to his opening stints of each half, as Spoelstra cycled through Martin, among others.

– Spoelstra said that doesn’t mean Highsmith’s role should have diminished perception.

– “There’s a lot of layers to that,” Spoelstra said. “And we’re still trying to figure out our rotation right now. But he’s been very good in those minutes. And that’s the thing. If you can embrace different kinds of roles, it doesn’t necessarily have to be 35-minute roles to have a major impact. And he’s had an impact.”

– Spoelstra added, “And we’re continuing to try to explore what we think is best. But in the meantime, he’s really improved.”

– With Herro and Robinson out, Highsmith’s minutes were up in this one, his extended minutes limited only by four trouble.

– Asked pregame of Butler’s comments of needing to be more impactful, Spoelstra initially simply answered, “Agreed.”

– Butler entered having scored at least 20 points in a season-high four consecutive games.

– Spoelstra then added. “I love it when he’s in impact mode. And we feed off his aggressiveness and his energy. Physically he’s feeling good right now.”

– Spoelstra then turned the answer into a bigger picture of the team’s offense.

– “And we’re trying to simplify things offensively,” he said, “just so we can get everybody feeling comfortable. That’s 1A, 1B for us, to get him in his strength zones and play off of him.”

– Of the Clippers hitting their stride at midseason, Spoelstra credited Clippers coach Tyronn Lue.

– “Ty has done a really good job, maximizing the group, getting them to play to an identity, getting everybody to embrace their roles, and you have to credit them, also,” Spoelstra said.

– He then spoke of the initial doubts after the Clippers acquired James Harden, “There’s a lot of noise when you lose. And whenever they lost five games right from the beginning after the trade, the noise gets loud. But they used it as something that galvanized them and got them to focus on the task. And they’ve been the hottest team in the league.”

– Of the Heat’s addition of Rozier two weeks ago, Lue said, “A lot of things Kyle brought, just younger. He adds that pop to their offense.”

MIAMI – The two-game winning streak the Miami Heat carried into the night was heartening. But the cold, hard reality is the Heat at the 50-game mark find themselves as an eighth-place team.

After reviving optimism in the wake of a seven-game losing streak with victories over the Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards, the Heat stepped up in competition Sunday night at Kaseya Center and took a step back with a 103-95 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers.

With the loss, the Heat fell to 9-16 against teams with winning records.

Losing Tyler Herro to a pregame migraine and without the 3-point shooting of guard Duncan Robinson for a third consecutive game, the Heat failed to muster the needed offense on a night they closed .418 from the field, including 8 of 3 on 3-pointers.

“I think we were on our way to a very good defensive game,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “It felt like we could have held them to the mid-90s.”

Instead, with a 34-point fourth quarter, the Clippers put it away.

“This thing was going to have to happen in the mud,” Spoelstra said. “That’s our identity and that’s how we’re trying to win games.”

While Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 25 points and James Harden added  21 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds, there wasn’t much in response from the Heat beyond the 21 points of Jimmy Butler.

Next up for the Heat is a Tuesday game against the Orlando Magic, the team that now stands a game ahead of them at No. 7 in the East.

“We’ve been in worse situations,” said center Bam Adebayo, who closed with 14 points and 13 rebounds, “like last year.”

Actually, not with the Heat finishing No. 7 in the East last season, before winding up as a No.  playoff seed as a result of the play-in round.

Five Degrees of Heat from Sunday night’s game:

1. Closing time: The Heat went up 11 early and led 22-19 at the end of the first period, with it tied 43-43 at halftime.

The Clippers then went up eight in the third period, before going into the fourth up 69-67, with Butler again on the bench to open the final period.

Butler returned with 8:24 to play and the Heat down 80-74, only to a Harden 3-pointer with 5:19 to play pushed the Clippers to a 91-78 lead.

From there, Butler sparked a comeback that drew the Heat within 99-95 with 13.3 seconds to play, but the comeback proved too little too late.

“We were never able to really claw back within it,” Spoelstra said.

The Clippers shot 17 of 20 from the line in fourth to put it away.

“It takes incredible focus and discipline to not foul,”  Spoelstra said.

2. And another one: Listed in the starting lineup submitted an hour in advance, Tyler Herro then was ruled out due to a migraine shortly thereafter.

That had Josh Richardson starting in place of Herro, alongside Adebayo, Haywood Highsmith,  Butler and Terry Rozier.

It was the Heat’s 26th lineup of the season in their 50th game.

It was Herro’s second absence since missing 18 games early in the season with a sprained right ankle, having also missed a Jan. 12 game with a shoulder strain.

Richardson closed with 14 points.

“I don’t think this was a step back,” Richardson said. “I think we came out and competed.”

3. Butler from deep: With a second-period 3-pointer, Butler matched his career-best streak of eight consecutive games with at least one 3-pointer, He has had three similar eight-game streaks, with this is his first since joining the Heat in the 2019 offseason.

Butler previously had a seven-game streak this season, this latest run embraced with Duncan Robinson missing the past three games in the NBA’s concussion protocol.

Butler made that lone 3-point point attempt in the first half, with the rest of his teammates 3 of 14 from beyond the arc over the first two periods.

Butler later converted another 3-pointer during the Heat’s too-late comeback bid.

He then declined comment after the game.

4. The Terry tracker: Playing for the first time without Herro in the mix, Rozier was efficient early, before again struggling with his shot.

While he again filled the box score, this was a game more on the offensive end was needed with Herro out.

He closed with 17 points on 7-of-17 shooting, with seven rebounds and five assists, missing all five of his 3-point attempts.

“”We want him to be aggressive. We want him to be him,” Spoelstra said. “We’re better with his aggressiveness, for sure.”

Richardson empathized.

“It’s different being traded at midseason,” Richardson said.

5. Zoning in: The Heat continued to try to turn to their zone for defensive salvation, after successful endeavors with the approach in the preceding two games, victories over the Kings and Wizards.

The Clippers committed six first-quarter turnovers and shot 1 of 8 in the opening period, with the Heat going to the zone early.

But that is when the Clippers began hitting shots and James Harden began manipulating the defense.

The Heat also extensively played zone in the teams’ previous meeting, but that was when the Heat were without leading perimeter defenders Butler, Highsmith and Caleb Martin. The Clippers eventually torched the Heat zone in a 121-104 victory on Jan, 1 in Los Angeles, shooting .483 on 3-pointers.

This time they came around to close 16 of 39 on 3-pointers

By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr. (AP Entertainment)

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Killer Mike was detained at the Grammy Awards on Sunday after the rapper and activist won three Grammy awards including his first in more than two decades.

In a video posted by the trade website The Hollywood Reporter, Mike was escorted in handcuffs by Los Angeles police at Crypto.com Arena after some joyous moments for him at the Grammys’ Premiere Ceremony on Sunday, where he won his awards in quick succession.

Police spokesperson Officer Mike Lopez said Mike being detained stemmed from an altercation inside the arena around 4 p.m.

A representative for Mike did not immediately respond to emails or text messages requesting a comment.

“The only thing that limits your age is not being truthful about your age or what you’re doing,” the 48-year-old Mike said backstage. He won for best rap performance, rap song and rap album.

“At 20 years old, I thought it was cool to be a drug dealer,” he said. “At 40, I started to live with the regrets and the things I’ve done. At 45, I started to rap about it. At 48, I stand here as a man full of empathy and sympathy for the things I’ve done.”

Mike’s first win came after he won for best rap performance for “Scientists & Engineers,” which also took home best rap song. The single features Andre 3000, Future and Eryn Allen Kane.

He won best rap album for “Michael.”

Before Sunday, Mike’s last Grammy came in 2003 when he won for “The Whole World” won for best rap performance by a duo or group.

When he collected third award, the Atlanta-based rapper shouted out “Sweep! Atlanta, it’s a sweep!”

As a member of Run the Jewels, Mike, along with producer El-P, pumped out four critically acclaimed albums. He made noise outside of music as a social-political activist who has spoken out against inequality for Black people, race relations and became a vocal supporter of Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2016 U.S. presidential campaign.

The Grammy-winner hosted Netflix’s “Trigger Warning with Killer Mike,” a 2019 documentary series about issues that affect the Black community. He also made an emotional plea to calm a protest against police brutality that turned violent in Atlanta.

Music’s biggest night is underway as the 66th Annual Grammy Awards takes place at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Hosted for the fourth consecutive year by comedian Trevor Noah, the ceremony is being broadcast live on CBS and available for streaming both live and on-demand on Paramount+.

Here are some highlights from the Grammys 2024 performances:

Dua Lipa performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) (L-R) Tracy Chapman and Luke Combs perform onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Tracy Chapman performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Luke Combs performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) SZA performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) SZA performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) (L-R) FINNEAS and Billie Eilish perform onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Miley Cyrus performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) Olivia Rodrigo performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder performs on stage honoring US singer Tony Bennett during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) US singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder performs on stage during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) Scottish singer-songwriter Annie Lennox (L) performs on stage during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) US singer Jon Batiste (L) and US singer Ann Nesby perform on stage during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) Fantasia Barrino performs onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US actress and singer Fantasia Barrino performs on stage during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images) (L-R) Joni Mitchell and Brandi Carlile perform onstage during the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Amy Sussman/Getty Images) US rapper Travis Scott performs on stage during the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images)

Music’s biggest night is underway as the 66th Annual Grammy Awards takes place at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.

Hosted for the fourth consecutive year by comedian Trevor Noah, the ceremony will be broadcast live on CBS and available for streaming both live and on-demand on Paramount+. Fans can tune into the festivities starting at 5 p.m. PST on Paramount+, CBS and Grammys.com.

Ahead of the show, here are some of the best looks from the Grammys 2024 red carpet:

Taylor Swift attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Janelle Monáe attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Lana Del Rey attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) (L-R) John Legend and Chrissy Teigen attend the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Olivia Rodrigo attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Miley Cyrus attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Jon Batiste attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Chloe attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Summer Walker attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Doja Cat attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) 21 Savage attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Coi Leray attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) (L-R) Peso Pluma and Nicki Nicole attend the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Coco Jones attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Peacock Theater on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) (L-R) Heidi Klum and Tom Kaulitz attend the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Alessandra Ambrosio attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Amaya Moore and Lecrae attend the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Ludwig Göransson attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Hannatu Musawa attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) (L-R) Calvin Harris and Vick Hope attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Kat Graham attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) US singer-songwriter Finneas O’Connell (L) and US singer-songwriter Billie Eilish arrive for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) (L-R) Aaron Dessner and Ed Sheeran attend the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Lauren Daigle attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US singer and actress Fantasia Barrino arrives for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) US rapper Killer Mike (R) and wife arrive for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Hazel Monét Gaines (L), John Gaines (C) and US singer-songwriter Victoria Monet (R) arrive for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) British singer-songwriter Dua Lipa arrives for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus of US indie group boygenius arrive for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Dawn Richard attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Maria Mendes attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile arrives for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Yang Tan attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Seth Parker Woods attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Lainey Wilson attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Sarah Tudzin attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) US singer Montana Tucker arrives for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) US singer Sara Gazarek arrives for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images) Analisse Rodriguez attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Landon Barker attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) Eryn Allen Kane attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Jacob Collier attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Lady London attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Carly Pearce attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) Noah Kahan attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy) US singer Yolanda Adams arrives for the 66th Annual Grammy Awards at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on February 4, 2024. (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)

Contributing: Holly Alvarado, Southern California News Group

By BRETT MARTEL

Associated Press

BATON ROUGE, La. — Aneesah Morrow had 18 points, 20 rebounds, two blocks and a steal as No. 9 LSU snapped a two-game skid with a resounding 106-66 victory over Florida on Sunday.

Hailey Van Lith and Mikaylah Williams each scored 21 points, and Angel Reese added 14 points and 10 rebounds for the Tigers (19-4, 6-3 SEC), who raced to a double-digit lead in the first quarter and led by as many as 45 points in the second half.

LSU was looking to rediscover its dominant form after a surprising road loss last Monday night at unranked Mississippi State — a result that followed a disheartening Jan. 25 home loss to unbeaten and No. 1 South Carolina after the Tigers had led most of that game.

Flau’Jae Johnson scored 10 points to give all five starters at least that many. Morrow scored from all over the offensive end, complementing her putbacks and generally powerful play in the paint with a pair of 3s.

Aliyah Matharu led Florida (11-9, 2-6) with 16 points and five steals and Leilani Correa added 13 points.

After Florida opened with a 6-2 lead, LSU took control by scoring 10 straight in a span of 1:57 — part of a run that grew to 14 straight. The surge included a pair of transition jumpers by Williams and Johnson’s right-wing 3.

“I thought that LSU did a great job of attacking in transition and really sharing the ball well,” Florida coach Kelly Rae Finley said, “but I thought it was their defense that changed the game for them.”

When Williams wasn’t scoring, Van Lith was hitting mid-range jumpers off screens, or Reese was scoring from the paint and at the foul line.

BIG PICTURE

Florida: The Gators struggled to stay with LSU on both ends. They shot 35.3% (24 of 68), allowed LSU to shoot 49.3% (37 of 75) and were outrebounded 59-34. … Reserve forward Eriny Kindred fouled out in just 11 minutes on the court.

LSU: The Tigers avoided what would have been their first three-game losing streak since coach Kim Mulkey took over before the 2021-22 season. They have had just two two-game skids and never lost two straight last season, when they won the national title. … Morrow had her team-leading 14th double-double in 23 games played, while Reese had her 13th in her 19th game played.

HONORING GUNTER

LSU honored the late Hall of Fame coach Sue Gunter, who won 422 games with the Tigers between 1983 and 2004, by placing her signature on the basketball court.

The halftime ceremony was attended by LSU women’s basketball alumni, including many players Gunter coached.

LSU assistant coach Bob Starkey, who also worked with Gunter, delivered a recorded message on the Pete Maravich Assembly Center videoboard.

“Coach Gunter planted seeds for LSU basketball, for collegiate women’s basketball, for USA basketball and for the WNBA,” Starkey said. “You look at all those things, and Sue Gunter’s fingerprints are on them.”

Gunter’s name now sits near the opposite sideline from that of former LSU men’s Dale Brown, who was honored similarly in 2022.

UP NEXT

Florida: Hosts Arkansas on Thursday night.

LSU: Visits Vanderbilt on Thursday night.

By RONALD BLUM (AP Sports Writer)

The 2026 World Cup final will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19.

FIFA made the announcement Sunday at a Miami television studio, allocating the opener of the 39-day tournament to Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca on June 11.

Semifinals will be played on July 14 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, and the following day at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

Quarterfinals will be at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on July 9, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the following day and at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, and Hard Rock Stadium on July 11. The third-place game will be at Hard Rock on July 18.

All told, seven games will be played in Miami Gardens, with there also four pool-play games scheduled along with a round-of-32 elimination contest.

The group-stage games will be held June 15, June 21, June 24 and June 27, while the round-of-32 game will be on July 3.

The U.S. team will open at SoFi on June 12, then play seven days later at Seattle’s Lumen Field and finish the group stage at SoFi on June 25.

AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys that had hoped to host the final, has the most matches of any venue with nine.

FIFA officials did not publicly explain their site-decision process.

FIFA expanded the World Cup from 32 to 48 nations and increased matches from 64 to 104. The 2026 tournament will be co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico and Canada, with all games from the quarterfinals on being played in the U.S. FIFA announced the 16 sites in 2022.

Canada will play its opening first-round match in Toronto on June 12, then its following two games in Vancouver, British Columbia, on June 18 and 24.

A nation will need to play eight matches to win the title, up from seven since 1982.

Other U.S. sites are Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts; NRG Stadium in Houston; Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri; Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia; Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Matches in Mexico also will be played at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey and Estadio Akron in Guadalajara.

All 11 of the U.S. stadiums are home to NFL teams. Hard Rock Stadium will host this year’s Copa América final on July 14, while MetLife was the site of the 2016 Copa América final.

Both the 1970 and 1986 World Cup finals were at Azteca.

When the U.S. hosted the 24-nation, 52-game tournament in 1994, the final was at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, and the opener at Chicago’s Soldier Field.

With the additional teams, the length of the tournament will grow from 29 days in the shortened 2022 schedule in Qatar and 32 days for the 2018 tournament in Russia.

Only one match will involve a team that has not had at least three off days. FIFA divided the group stage into East, Central and West regions and intended to make travel shorter for group winners.

The stadiums in Arlington, Atlanta and Houston have retractable roofs that are expected to be closed because of summer heat, and Inglewood and Vancouver have fixed roofs.

Artificial turf will be replaced by grass in Arlington, Atlanta, East Rutherford, Foxborough, Houston, Inglewood and Vancouver.

Several of the venues are expected to widen their surfaces to accommodate a 75-by-115 yard (68-by-105 meter) playing field, including AT&T and MetLife.

FIFA did not announce kickoff times. The 1994 championship started at 12:30 p.m. PDT (3:30 p.m. EDT and 9:30 p.m. in Central Europe) but the start has been moved up in recent years as Asia’s television market become more significant to FIFA. The 2022 final in Qatar started at 5 p.m. local time (10 a.m. EDT, 4 p.m. in Central Europe and 10 p.m. in Beijing).

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Fresh off its best recruiting class in school history, UCF has landed a verbal commitment from its highest-rated recruit for its Class of 2025.

The Knights secured a pledge from Kendarius Reddick Saturday night, a four-star safety from Thomasville, Georgia, who is the 64th-ranked player in the country according to 247Sports’ composite rankings. According to the website, Reddick is also Georgia’s No. 7 overall safety and 12th-best player.

Reddick’s commitment is a massive coup for new cornerback coach Trovon Reed, who joined the Knights’ coaching staff last week after spending the past three seasons as Auburn’s player relation coordinator and director of football. Reed previously secured a commitment from Reddick to AU, where he has been committed since October.

Reed celebrated the news on social media, “The GUS BUS ! Who’s Next ???”

The GUS BUS

BOCA RATON — Johnell Davis scored 24 points, Alijah Martin and Vladislav Goldin each scored 18 and No. 20 Florida Atlantic easily topped Tulsa 102-70 on Saturday night for its seventh consecutive win.

Nick Boyd finished with 13 and Bryan Greenlee added 11 for Florida Atlantic (18-4, 8-1 American Athletic Conference), which remained tied with Charlotte and South Florida atop the league standings. Charlotte pulled away to beat East Carolina earlier Saturday and USF won at North Texas.

PJ Haggerty scored 25 and Cobe Williams added 16 for Tulsa (12-9, 3-6). The Golden Hurricane scored 27 points in the first half, then needed only 10 minutes of the second half to score their next 27 — but trailed by double digits most of the way.

Tyshawn Archie scored 11 for Tulsa, which was 4 for 28 from 3-point range.

FAU scored six points in three seconds midway through the second half, and the margin got out of hand from there. Davis scored while Goldin was being flagrantly fouled to start that burst. Goldin made both free throws, got fouled again three seconds later and made two more from the line.

The 32-point margin was the second-largest in an American game this season. SMU beat Tulsa by 33 on Jan. 20.

Brandon Weatherspoon went baseline for a dunk with 9:18 left in the half to start what became a 19-1 FAU run, one that turned a one-point deficit into a 17-point lead — and took only 4 1/2 minutes.

Davis and Boyd each made two 3-pointers in that burst, Tulsa missed seven consecutive shots and the FAU lead was 32-15 with 4:50 left until intermission.

The Golden Hurricane closed within nine later in the half, but FAU’s edge was 40-27 at the break.

BIG PICTURE

Florida Atlantic: Goldin set a tone with four first-half dunks and finished with at least seven field goals for the ninth time this season. The Owls went to their 7-foot-1 center early and often; the game was nearly 6 minutes old before anyone besides Goldin scored for FAU.

POLL IMPLICATIONS

Only nine teams appeared in every AP poll last season, and FAU is one of 12 schools to have been in all 13 editions of the AP Top 25 so far this season. The Owls may rise a bit when the new poll is released Monday after No. 13 Creighton, No. 15 Texas Tech, No. 17 Utah State and No. 19 New Mexico were among the teams that had a loss this week.

UP NEXT

Florida Atlantic: Visits UAB on Thursday night.

General Daily Insight for February 04, 2024

Finding the right balance between work and play could be a challenge at present. The nourishing Moon enters buoyant Sagittarius at 1:28 am EST, lifting our moods. While it supports potent Pluto, pursuing even seemingly shallow pleasures may bring rewarding insights. Still, when Luna goes on to provoke bitter Saturn, we might fear that doing what feels good potentially takes us too far away from our established responsibilities and commitments. Looking at the big picture should clarify which diversions we’re able to afford.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Your friends are likely to be on board with any idea for an adventure you cook up today. While the spontaneous Moon in your 9th House of Travel conflicts with wet blanket Saturn in your anxious 12th house, your own inhibitions could be a bigger obstacle. Don’t be afraid to request another perspective if you truly can’t tell what’s worth worrying about. On the other hand, you’re not required to be a daredevil to impress people — simple pleasures are okay too!

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Your mind is likely to be occupied with heavy topics at this time. As the probing Moon in your intense 8th house sextiles profound Pluto in your ambition sector, following your thoughts wherever they lead could provide you with a stronger sense of your own goals. A potentially transformative insight may be initially exciting for you, but sharing it with your friends before you’re ready risks throwing you off a promising scent. If you’re not in the mood for judgment, don’t seek it out!

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Going somewhere outside your usual routine with a loved one may give you a fresh view of your relationship. Unfortunately, you might not like everything you see. While the sensitive Moon in your partnership zone fusses at stern Saturn in your authority sector, an uncomfortable power dynamic between the two of you could be especially apparent in this updated context. If you’re not happy with what you have, articulating a clear vision of what you want is the first step toward getting it.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

You might feel trapped in your daily routine. Although travel or other exciting plans may not be realistic at the moment, perhaps changing how you share responsibilities with someone else would make you more comfortable in the meantime. While the perceptive Moon in your 6th House of Duty picks up on subconscious Pluto in your sharing sector, you’re equipped to detect the deeper dynamics involved in the situation. Find a solution that works for both of you rather than against anyone.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Emotional closeness might seem to be lacking in a current relationship of yours. Perhaps you’re contributing to the problem by taking yourself too seriously. Intimacy doesn’t always look terribly solemn! While the genuine Moon in your playful 5th house supports grounded Pluto in your partnership sector, doing something fun together may be what your bond needs most at this moment. If you don’t know how to sit down and basically enjoy each other’s company, the tougher stuff will probably only get harder.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

You may not presently be receiving the level of care you believe you deserve from someone close to you. While the emotional Moon in your 4th House of Nurturing clashes against inhibited Saturn in your relationship sector, this would understandably be upsetting. You might not be able to make the other person see the error of their ways. However, you probably have a reasonable amount of control over getting practical tasks done. Focus on what flows smoothly while letting everything else work itself out.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Keeping your conversations overly focused on practical matters could drag you down today. Although playing it safe can help you avoid trouble, boredom can sap your energy and make you less productive as the candid Moon in your communication zone defers to rigid Saturn in your responsible 6th house. Being vulnerable is always a gamble, but bringing more of your personality into your routine interactions may allow you to feel emotionally connected to what you’re doing. A little bit goes a long way!

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Building security could be a focus for you now. As the fretful Moon in your money zone provokes repressive Saturn in your 5th House of Fun, you may be concerned that this effort gets in the way of your ability to enjoy yourself. You aren’t required to give in to your desire for pleasure, but don’t pretend it doesn’t exist. Honestly acknowledge the discomfort of sacrifice before you try to psych yourself up about the benefits you hope it will eventually bring you.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Your side of the story is possibly easy to tell right now. Even so, your audience may not be equipped to deliver the specific kind of validation that you’re looking for. While the needy Moon in your sign aggravates scarcity-focused Saturn in your 4th House of Roots, you might long for others to nurture you emotionally. If you focus on how they fail to do that, you’ll possibly miss out on the thoughtful and perceptive insights that they are presently able to provide.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Trying to talk things out with others could stress you out today. As the nervous Moon in your contemplative 12th house stumbles into duty-bound Saturn in your communication zone, you may feel obligated to give people the information they’re demanding from you. Failing to comply with such a request might seem like bad manners! That said, it’s possible that factors beyond your control make this the wrong time to share. Remove blame and judgment from the equation, then see what makes sense after that.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

You’re currently capable of steering an organization you belong to in the way you’d like it to go. As the impressionable Moon in your 11th House of Community aligns with subversive Pluto in your sign, your methods might correctly be described as manipulative. Asking openly for what you want may be more trouble than it’s worth, though — if you’re anxious about that, others could sense your lack of confidence. A little indirectness now and then is okay, but don’t take it too far.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Having to interact with the public could stress you out today. While the clingy Moon in your 10th House of Reputation conflicts with guarded Saturn in your sign, you may perceive your audience as demanding and protect yourself from the pressure by pulling back. This can quickly compound the problem. The rest of the story, however, is that you’re potentially getting a lot done behind the scenes. If you’re able to convincingly get that message across, they might settle down.

COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Tyrece Radford scored 26, including the final three points of the game, and Texas A&M rallied to beat Florida 67-66 on Saturday.

Zyon Pullin hit a jumper to put Florida up 66-64 with 3:04 remaining, but the Gators would not score again.

Radford made the second of two free throws with 2:37 to go and buried a go-ahead jumper with 35 seconds left.

Florida had three shots at the winning basket on its final possession but could not get one to fall.

Radford made 10 of 16 shots with two 3-pointers and 4 of 7 free throws for the Aggies (13-8, 4-4 Southeastern Conference), plus adding five rebounds. Wade Taylor IV scored 15 but made just 5 of 18 shots, including 1 of 6 from beyond the arc. Solomon Washington had 10 points and Andersson Garcia pitched in with nine points and six rebounds off the bench.

Pullin led the Gators (15-7, 5-4) with 18 points and eight assists. Will Richard and reserve Riley Kugel each scored 12. Kugel added five rebounds and four assists.

Pullin had a hand in 20 first-half points, scoring 12 with four assists, and Kugel hit three 3-pointers and scored 10 as Florida took a 40-34 lead. Radford had 15 points to help keep Texas A&M close.

Richard hit a pair of 3-pointers to begin the second half and Florida upped its advantage to 12. Texas A&M whittled away at the lead until Taylor sank a 3-pointer and scored the last five in a 7-0 run to give the Aggies a 57-55 lead with 8:44 left to play.

“Really, the biggest thing for me was that there were a total of 13 free throws taken by both teams in the first half, and then A&M took 20 in the second half to our 2,” Gators coach Todd Golden said.

Texas A&M has won five in a row over the Gators by a total of nine points.

Florida, which had a four-game win streak end, was coming off a 94-91 overtime victory at No. 10 Kentucky. Walter Clayton Jr. hit career-best seven 3-pointers and scored 23 to lead the way in that game.  The Aggies held Clayton to eight points.

Texas A&M plays at Missouri on Wednesday. Florida will host No 16 Auburn on Feb. 10.

As milestones go, it was a pretty special one for Johnny Dawkins.

With UCF’s 74-63 upset win over No. 23 Oklahoma at Addition Financial Arena on Saturday, the Knights’ coach secured his 300th career coaching win. He joins a group of 80 active Division I coaches with 300 or more wins during their careers.

“Our guys really did lock in and execute the game plan and gave us a chance tonight,” said the 60-year-old Dawkins, who previously served as Stanford’s head coach.

It was the second time this season that UCF (13-8, 4-5 Big 12) has defeated a ranked opponent, having knocked off No. 3 Kansas 65-60 on Jan. 10. The last time the Knights beat two ranked teams in the same season was the 2018-19 campaign.

UCF stepped up its defensive effort in the beginning, recording back-to-back-to-back steals and a block on four straight Oklahoma possessions as the Knights jumped out to a 7-0 lead.

Fifth-year guard Antwann Jones connected on back-to-back 3-pointers, giving UCF its largest lead of the first half at 15-4 with 15:04. But that advantage didn’t last as the Knights went through a brutal shooting stretch: 1 of 8 from the floor with a pair of turnovers as Oklahoma (16-6, 4-5) cut the lead to 20-17 with under 7 minutes.

Late collapse in loss to No. 18 Baylor hurts UCF’s postseason hopes

Both teams hovered around 40% shooting for the half, with the Knights managing to grab the halftime lead for the third straight game, 34-27.

UCF was without the services of forward Thierno Sylla, who was assessed a contact technical foul upon an official review at halftime and ejected for the second half. It was the second ejection of the season for Sylla, who was tossed after leaving the bench during a scuffle against Kansas on Jan. 10.

But instead of settling for outside shots as it had done for most of the first half, UCF attacked the basket, turning a 7-point halftime advantage into its largest lead at 17 points. The Knights finished with 26 points in the paint — 16 in the second half — and 17 fast-break points.

“I feel like lately, in the past, we get relaxed in the second half [of games], but this game, we tried to stay in attack mode, get to the free throw line, and do different things like that to keep us focused offensively,” said guard Shemarri Allen.

UCF men’s basketball faces crucial stretch of Big 12 schedule to make case for NCAA tournament

The fifth-year senior was back in the starting lineup after missing the last two games after rolling his ankle in the Knights’ 72-59 win over West Virginia on Jan. 23.

Guard Jaylin Sellers led three Knights in double figures with 20 points, followed by Jones (15) and Darius Johnson (14).

Oklahoma was led by guards Le’Tre Darthard (14 points) and Rivaldo Soares (11).

UCF held the Sooners to a season-low 36% (17 of 47) shooting and forced 15 turnovers resulting in 16 transition points.

“I just thought they were a step ahead of us on both ends the whole night,” said Oklahoma coach Porter Moser. “I don’t think we guarded our yard — we call it guarding your yard, the three feet each way. I don’t think we guarded our yard very well.”

The win helps keep alive UCF’s chances for a possible NCAA Tournament bid thanks to the strength of the Big 12. The conference had eight teams ranked in this week’s Associated Press Top 25 poll and the league has the most impressive NET average ranking (46.0) among all the Division I conferences.

The Knights are 1 game under .500 in conference play and would need a strong finish over the final 9 games to have a legitimate shot at the postseason.

“We have our standards and our expectations,” said Dawkins. “We still haven’t achieved what I think we can achieve. So for us, we’re going to keep pushing and keep fighting because we still haven’t reached our full potential.”

While 300 wins is a huge milestone for Dawkins, he’s eager to share the accolades.

“I’m just very grateful that I’ve been able to coach some amazing young men not just because of wins but because of the people that they are and and the people that they’ve become,” he said. “I told my team after the game that I look back at each one of the teams that I’ve coached and the players that were on those teams, and I’m just thankful I’ve had a chance to work with some amazing people.”

Email Matt Murschel at mmurschel@orlandosentinel.com or follow him on X at @osmattmurschel.

A day after a Florida Highway Patrol trooper and a truck driver were killed during a pursuit on Interstate 95 in St. Lucie County, the man who led the trooper on the pursuit has been arrested in the two deaths.

The suspect in Friday’s chase, Michael Anthony Addison, 30, is from Broward County. He is facing charges of vehicular homicide, felony homicide, driving without a license causing death, aggravated fleeing and eluding with death, among others, the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles said in a statement Saturday afternoon.

A St. Lucie County deputy initially tried to stop the suspect early Friday because he was driving at twice the speed limit, but the deputy called it off several minutes later. Trooper Zachary Fink, 26, then resumed the pursuit, trying to stop the driver out of concern he was endangering others, Col. Gary Howze, who heads the Florida Highway Patrol, said.

The suspect made an abrupt U-turn into the opposite direction of traffic on I-95, and Fink followed, turning into the path of a tractor-trailer. The truck’s driver and Fink both died.

Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Zachary Fink, was killed Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, in a crash with a tractor-trailer while trying to catch a fleeing felon on Interstate 95 in St. Lucie County. The truck driver also died. (Florida Highway Patrol/courtesy)

The news release did not provide further information about the incident or FHP’s ongoing investigation. Addison was booked into the St. Lucie County jail shortly before 9:30 p.m. Friday, according to the jail’s inmate log.

Addison has been arrested on felony charges multiple times in Broward County between 2012 and 2021, court records show. He was arrested on burglary- and theft-related charges when he was 18 years old and the judge withheld adjudication. He was sentenced to three years of probation.

He was arrested several times in 2020 on fraud-related charges and was placed on probation that was ultimately revoked, court records show. He spent about a year in jail.

In 2021, Addison was arrested on a third-degree grand theft charge, court records show, and that charge was later dropped. Paula McMahon, spokesperson for the Broward State Attorney’s Office, said in an email Saturday evening that the charge was dropped after prosecutors investigated and reviewed evidence that found Addison was not the suspect.

Later that year, he was arrested on charges of domestic battery by strangulation for allegedly grabbing his ex-girlfriend by the neck, according to arrest paperwork. Prosecutors declined to bring that case as well. McMahon said prosecutors could not move forward with the case after the victim declined to cooperate and no independent evidence supported the charge.

He was then pulled over by Coconut Creek Police in November 2022 for failing to stop at a red light and was found to be driving without a valid license, according to court records.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report. 

MOBILE, Ala. — Washington State cornerback Chau Smith-Wade returned an interception 83 yards in the final two minutes to set up a decisive score and secure the National’s 16-7 victory over the American team in the Senior Bowl on Saturday.

In a game dominated by the defenses, Smith-Wade sprawled out to pick off a deep ball from Tennessee’s Joe Milton III. He hesitated momentarily before realizing he wasn’t officially down under NFL rules.

Then he shook off one tackle attempt on the right sideline and cut back across the field before TCU running back Emani Bailey stopped him at the 1 with 1:38 left.

“I got up and it’s not college anymore where you’re down,” said Smith-Wade, who was named the National’s player of the game. “You’ve got to be down by contact now. So I got up, I started to celebrate a little bit and my teammates were like, ‘Go, go, go.’”

The offense couldn’t punch it in, but Joshua Karty of Stanford made his third field goal, scoring on kicks of 19, 37 and 52 yards.

Smith-Wade got his second pick on a Hail Mary pass into the end zone by Tulane’s Michael Pratt.

It wasn’t a big game for the quarterbacks, with the top-rated passers seeing only limited action in the game for NFL prospects.

Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. opted not to play. The Heisman Trophy runner-up did participate in practices this week after leading the Huskies to the national championship game.

Fellow Pac-12 Conference star Oregon’s Bo Nix, who was third in the Heisman voting, played only two series. So did South Carolina’s Spencer Rattler for the American team.

Nix, who started his career a few hours away at Auburn, completed 4 of 5 passes for 21 yards in two series. His final play was a 2-yard touchdown to Minnesota tight end Brevyn Spann-Ford when he rolled out before firing up the middle. It was the team’s only TD.

“He’s just absolutely a winner,” said National coach Jeff Ulbrich, the New York Jets defensive coordinator.

Rattler completed all four of his attempts for 65 yards and earned Game MVP honors in the loss. He capped his first drive with a 29-yard touchdown pass to Georgia’s Marcus-Rosemy-Jacksaint in a connection between Southeastern Conference Eastern Division rivals.

“I felt like I wanted to come out here, create relationships and have fun,” Rattler said. “This was just the cherry on top.”

None of the other quarterbacks was as effective.

Milton was 9-of-13 passing for 80 yards for the American team but was intercepted twice.

Notre Dame’s Sam Hartman played most of the way for the National team. He went 7 of 25 for 69 yards with an interception.

TCU’s Bailey had four runs and a catch totaling 35 yards on the American team’s first five plays. He finished with 53 yards on 10 carries and four catches for another 34 yards.

Georgia defensive back Tykee Smith was the American team’s MVP after breaking up three passes.

Florida State defensive tackle Braden Fiske switched sides Saturday morning to the National team because of roster attrition. He had four tackles, 1 1/2 tackles for loss and was in on a sack.

It was the game’s first sellout since 2010, when Florida quarterback Tim Tebow was on the roster. Players wore helmets with stickers featuring a parrot drinking a margarita to honor the late Mobile native Jimmy Buffett.

___

AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

By FRED GOODALL (AP Sports Writer)

ORLANDO — Tyreek Hill is a five-time All-Pro, eight-time Pro Bowl selection and a Super Bowl champion.

The speedy Miami Dolphins receiver likes the idea of also having an opportunity to pursue Olympic gold when the rapidly growing sport of flag football debuts in the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles, a sentiment shared by other NFL stars, including Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Hill, Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and running back Raheem Mostert, Detroit Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram are among the players representing the AFC and NFC at the Pro Bowl Games, which conclude Sunday with a seven-on-seven flag exhibition that will offer fans and a national television audience a sense of what the sport could look like with such highly skilled talent on the field.

“That’s going to be really exciting,” Tagovailoa said, adding he played flag football as a 5- or 6-year-old and is eager to see the makeup of the roster for Team USA in four years.

Flag football is one of five sports added to the Olympic program for 2028.

The NFL, which continues to expand its global brand, has expressed a willingness to work with the NFL Players Association, USA Football, the International Federation of American Football and the International Olympic Committee regarding the prospect of current and former players participating in Los Angeles.

“Those conversations around eligibility and process have started,” league executive Peter O’Reilly said.

“Obviously, (there’s) a little bit of time, and there’s a lot of great global flag football competitions to come in the years ahead that may be less on people’s radars — world championships, world games … but important things for us to work through, and we’ll continue to do that,” O’Reilly added.

This is the second year that Pro Bowl week festivities have culminated with a non-contact flag game that’s replaced the event’s traditional tackle exhibition.

The NFL has helped spur the growth of flag football for young boys and girls throughout the world, in part through organizing clinics, camps and competitions while supporting the creation of college scholarships.

Youth teams of boys and girls from Australia, the Bahamas, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Ghana, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and the United Kingdom traveled to Orlando, Florida, to compete in the International NFL Flag Championships during the Pro Bowl Games.

Canada, which won last year’s NFL Flag International Division, made the trip to face U.S. flag teams in the National NFL Flag Championship event.

Former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, who is coaching the NFC in Sunday’s flag game at Camping World Stadium, is supportive of the idea of NFL players participating in the Olympics.

“I think it’s great. The fact that they have an impact on that and growing the game of flag football,” Manning said.

“You see a lot of kids that are younger are playing flag football. In a lot of ways, that’s how they get introduced to the game of football. They are big fans of it, understand it,” the two-time Super Bowl champion added. “Even a lot of players now who are here grew up playing flag football or versions of it. … It’s a game on its own.”

Older brother Peyton Manning, a Hall of Famer as well as a two-time Super Bowl winner and coach of the AFC, also is enthusiastic about the growth of the fast-paced sport.

“I’m excited for flag football and the Olympics,” Peyton Manning said. “I heard Tyreek saying he’d like to make it, so it would a (tough) competition for people trying to compete” for roster spots.

Hill and Mahomes are among the biggest names who’ve expressed interest in possibly playing for Team USA.

Mostert said he has never played organized flag football, but he is looking forward to Sunday’s game between the NFL’s two conferences.

“Obviously, flag football is a great sport. Everyone is really in tune with it,” Mostert said.

“I think it does a lot for the game of football itself. It’s definitely a safer, less contact version of the game, and it allows other countries be introduced to the game or even finding the great talent in their country and inside their lines playing this great sport,” Engram said. “The Olympics have been the highest pinnacle of competition, so adding football to that is really cool.”

Count St. Brown among those who grew up playing flag football. He’s thought about the possibility of playing in the Olympics but hasn’t decided if it’s for him.

“I don’t know yet. … But maybe when I retire. Right now, I might get injured, whatever the case may be,” St. Brown said. “After I’m done playing, shoot, I’d love to get out there and do something.”

___

More AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

CORAL GABLES — Walking back to his office Saturday afternoon, Jim Larrañaga was met down the hallways of the Watsco Arena by friends or fans with the same mantra bestowed on winners in every sport.

“Good game, good game,’’ he was told after the University of Miami’s 82-74 win against Virginia Tech.

“Thank you,’’ Larrañaga responded, giving a nod or shake of the hand in appreciation.

He’s been around long enough to know this was less a good game than a great finish. “Awful,’’ he labeled a 10-minute stretch of the first half where Miami was 2 for 16 shooting. “Difficult,’’ he called parts of the larger game.

Whatever Miami found in the final stanza of the second half, down 10 points and struggling, they need to bottle it and sprinkle it across February to get to the March that’s been their good friend the past two years.

Maybe this becomes the kind of day to propel their hamstrung season forward.. Maybe it has to happen the way it did Saturday, with this combination of competitive grit and calm in the face of calamity, these players mirroring their coach’s unshaken demeanor that’s his sideline philosophy.

“Train, then trust,’’ is the mantra Larrañaga coaches, a line from his friend, the sports psychologist Bob Rotella. The idea is to train players in practice, then trust they’ll get it right in games to the point of even clap encouragement during mistakes.

Larrañaga did a lot of clapping for much of Saturday.

“Did you see me at the end?’’ he said, walking down the hallway with a smile.

His veneer of calm was replaced by an arm-waving plea for the home crowd to bring some volume into the day. Miami had finally made a few defensive stands, finally decided to pass and not just dribble against the Virginia Tech defense and finally clawed their way into a one-point game. Then a five-point deficit. Then three points.

Then came the sequence that could turn a season. Norchad Omier, their prime-time player, grabbed a Virginia Tech turnover and drove in solo for a dunk. When Virginia Tech passed the ball back in, Miami freshman Kyshawn George grabbed it for an easy layin and a 66-65 lead it wouldn’t give back.

Suddenly, instead of being on the brink of 5-6 in the ACC and wondering about its NCAA Tournament plight, Miami is 6-5 with a good view out. If it can re-create those final minutes. If it can remember to pass the ball like it did in the second half and bring the kind of defense that changed the day.

“At a timeout, we used the expression that ‘We must disrupt’ them,’’ Larrañaga said. “We can’t just guard them on defense. We’ve got harass the dribble, harass the ball handler, front the post that was killing us for a while.”

This was the first time Miami had its actual starting lineup in weeks due to constant injury. The trouble goes beyond games. All the starters have worked together once in the 20 practices since early December, affecting everything from chemistry to conditioning to general team morale.

Now, walking down the hall, Larrañaga said, “If we can keep everyone in there …”

He didn’t need to finish the thought. Miami has been an Elite Eight and Final Four team the past two years. It has enough top-end talent to have some more fun this NCAA tournament. It had five players in double figures Sunday.

Omier is a physical force, too — the only one on Miami’s small team. His 17 points and seven rebounds don’t tell how indispensable he is. When he left the game with foul trouble, so did much of Miami’s might.

“Google, ‘Atlas,’”  Larrañaga said of the Greek god when asked by media from Omier’s native Nicaragua about him. “Omier is Atlas.”

Now, Larrañaga saw Omier outside his office, talking to fans. Larrañaga was met with more a good-game chorus from friends. Whatever happened in that great finish, Miami needs it the rest of this season.

 

General Daily Insight for February 03, 2024

Following our feelings could stir things up throughout the day. When the mystery-loving Scorpio Moon catches the scent of unusual Uranus at 4:55 am EST, our intuition can tell us where to dig — indulging seemingly minor curiosities has the potential to unearth substantial surprises. As Luna goes on to align with active Mars and thoughtful Mercury, we’re capable of putting our discoveries to practical use right away. Even when events don’t unfold in exactly the way we’d expected, we’re still moving forward!

Aries

March 21 – April 19

A seemingly impulsive financial decision could bring you closer to a significant goal. Sometimes you just need to get out of a frustrating rut in any way you can — even if it isn’t tidy. You know deep inside what level of risk you’re truly equipped to take on. Still, as the vulnerable Moon in your 8th House of Sharing challenges bold Uranus in your money zone, your loved ones might continually worry. Try to set things up in a way that shields them.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

Standing up to someone who seeks to tie you down might be necessary at the moment. The clear reality that you can’t always protect everyone else’s feelings while doing what you need to do could challenge your beliefs about how relationships are supposed to work. You may feel isolated, as though you’re the only one who struggles in this way. Remind yourself that your peers might understand exactly why you’re doing what you’re doing, they just aren’t likely to admit it out loud today.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Hidden resentment could provoke you to impulsively shirk your ongoing duties. This pain is a valid signal that change is necessary. Perhaps distributing responsibilities more fairly with someone else involved in the situation would address your concerns and make you happier to contribute. If it’s not clear who has the authority to adjust the arrangement, reach out to the other person and see if you can begin working things out between the two of you. Starting somewhere is better than going nowhere!

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Your current eagerness to build relationships could come off a little too anxious. While the spontaneous Moon in your 5th House of Self-Expression opposes volatile Uranus in your social 11th house, impulsively sharing something really personal with your peers may not have the outcome you expect. Thankfully, the results aren’t guaranteed to be all bad. As long as you’re tough enough to deal with the possibility of conflict in the moment, taking a risk might plant the seeds of rewarding connections further down the road.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Pursuing a goal outside your comfort zone could rattle your sense of security now. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go for it! While the anxious Moon in your sensitive 4th house reaches out to both clever Mercury and motivated Mars in your productivity sector, your problem-solving skills are ready to rise to the occasion. Even if the challenge came about in a way that you wouldn’t have chosen, conquering it can give you a great reason to take pride in your resilience.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

A craving for attention could be burning a hole in your inhibitions at the moment. When the impulsive Moon in your communication zone goads wild Uranus in your adventurous 9th house, you might say something bizarre just to get a reaction out of the people around you. This is likely to be fun — for you, at least! Do your best to keep an eye on how your audience is really doing so you can rein things in if they’re getting too upset.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

Feeling anxious about your finances could tempt you to make a last-minute, rash decision. While the fretful Moon in your money zone nags impatient Uranus, you might be in a hurry to attain security. As you consider a tempting opportunity to get rich quick, take a second to step back and identify the things that already are reasonably secure in your life. You’re possibly doing better than you think in at least some way, so plan your next moves from that foundation.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

You may currently feel vulnerable because someone you rely on seems unstable. Can you tell them that without being mean about it? Although being angry is understandable, you can communicate your concerns without resorting to personal attacks or name-calling. You have a right to your side of the story, and that should be enough to start the conversation. As the discussion goes on, however, don’t forget to hear them out — your expectations may not be as realistic as you think.

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

Your current need for rest could motivate you to look for a way out of an oppressive responsibility. While the mellow Moon in your 12th House of Contemplation soothes driven Mars in your finance sector, it’s possible that spending a little extra money to get things done in a way that requires less personal effort from you would be worth it. You probably don’t have to commit to this choice for the rest of your life, so try it once and see how it goes.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Intimidating your peers is possible at this time. While the impressionable Moon in your social zone takes notice of both brilliant Mercury and bombastic Mars in your sign, it’s likely clear to the world that you’re antsy to make something happen! Your intense drive isn’t wrong, but you may need to be realistic about the fact that some people aren’t going to vibe with it. Focus your efforts on collaborators who are sincerely up for the challenge instead of pushing reluctant folks along the way.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

Your hidden feelings could become known without warning — but it shouldn’t be the end of the world! As the emotional Moon in your public 10th house sextiles articulate Mercury in your 12th House of Secrets, you’re equipped to explain your side of the story in a way people will find relatable. Although even good change is often disruptive, having the truth out may free everyone involved to negotiate an arrangement that’s ultimately more comfortable. You don’t have to worry about protecting others from that.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

Taking a routine conversation in an unexpected direction could be tempting now. While the inquisitive Moon in your philosophical 9th house provokes unstable Uranus in your communication zone, you might want to reveal your political or spiritual beliefs to someone you wouldn’t normally go there with. Perhaps they’ll ultimately become interested in joining a community you belong to. This outcome isn’t guaranteed, though, so make sure you can live with any emotional fallout if it becomes apparent that you’re not on the same page.