by Abhishek Shukla

Narender, Ajinkya’s Super 10s and Sagar’s High 5 steer Tamil Thalaivas to 45- 28 win against Bengaluru Bulls 

21st January, Hyderabad: Tamil Thalaivas banked on some incredible raiding and resolute defending to clinch a 45-28 victory against Bengaluru Bulls in the Pro Kabaddi League match at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium on Sunday. Narender and Ajinkya Pawar, with 14 and 11 points respectively, were excellent for Tamil Thalaivas as was their captain Sagar with 5 tackle points. Bengaluru Bulls’ Akshit also had a superb game as he finished with 12 raid points. 

It was a contest between two evenly matched sides with very little margin for error. Akshit’s fine show in the previous game earned him a spot in the starting 7 and he did not disappoint – he picked up 7 points in the first 10 minutes – which were, incidentally, the only points Bengaluru Bulls had at 7-10. The raiders dominated the opening phase as Narender and Ajinkya Pawar kept the scorecard ticking for the Tamil Nadu team. 

 The Bengaluru Bulls defence had no tackle points to account for in the opening 15 minutes, by which time the Tamil Thalaivas had inflicted the first ALL OUT. It was the two raiders who got the job done as Narender and Ajinkya led their team to an 18-9 lead. 

That served as a wakeup call for the Bengaluru Bulls as they turned it up a notch, the highlight being a superb 3-point raid from Sushil. They even had a chance to bag an ALL OUT, but Ajinkya rescued Tamil Thalaivas and led them to a healthy 25-14 lead at half-time. Akshit continued to excel for the Bengaluru Bulls as he got the better of Himanshu to bring up his first Super 10 of the season, which was soon followed by an ALL OUT for his side. With 11 minutes to go, the scoreline read 31-23 in Tamil Thalaivas’ favour. 

It was then Narender’s turn to shine in the limelight as he produced 2 fantastic multi-point raids to swiftly earn an ALL OUT for his side. Along the way, he completed a Super 10 and his team led by 14 points with less than 5 minutes to go. 

With about 3 minutes left, Tamil Thalaivas captain Sagar launched into a huge tackle on Sushil to bag a High 5 and become the first defender to reach 50 tackle points this season. There was more reason to celebrate for Tamil Thalaivas as Sahil Gulia also crossed the 50 tackle points mark and the team closed out a comprehensive 17-point win. 

Pro Kabaddi League Season 10, 2023 
Points Table 
Position Team Matches Won Lost Tied Points Score Diff Points conceded Points scored 
1 Jaipur Pink Panthers 14 10 2 2 58 54 427 481 
2 Puneri Paltan 12 10 2 0 52 156 325 481 
3 Dabang Delhi K.C. 14 8 4 2 49 32 466 498 
4 Gujarat Giants 13 8 5 0 44 8 429 437 
5 Haryana Steelers 13 7 5 1 39 -26 494 468 
6 Bengal Warriors 13 6 5 2 38 5 485 490 
7 U Mumba 13 6 6 1 37 6 487 493 
8 Patna Pirates 14 6 7 1 37 3 526 529 
9 Bengaluru Bulls 15 6 9 0 37 -47 532 485 
10 Tamil Thalaivas 14 5 9 0 30 3 490 493 
11 U.P. Yoddhas 15 3 11 1 23 -54 575 521 
12 Telugu Titans 14 2 12 0 15 -140 595 455 

Please see below the PKL Season 10 match on 22nd January

Game 1 – Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Bengal Warriors- 8 pm

Game 2- Telugu Titans vs Haryana Steelers- 9 pm 

Venue: Hyderabad

Season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and for free on Disney+ Hotstar.  

by Abhishek Shukla

KIYG 2023: Delhi jump to second spot after bagging two gold medals

Chennai, Jun 21: Hosts Tamil Nadu and Delhi clinched two gold medals each while Punjab, Gujarat, Chandigarh and Manipur added one each to their tally on the second day of the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 on Sunday.

Navyaa SH clinched the day’s first gold in girls’ traditional yoga and fencer Arlin AV bagged the boy’s Sabre gold defeating Haryana’s Lakshya Badser 15-14 to take Tamil Nadu’s tally to four gold and two bronze.

Delhi jumped to second spot in the medals tally after their judokas clinched two of the five gold medals on offer and also bagged two silver medals at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor stadium.

Tannu Mann defeated statemate Jaanvi Yadav to clinch the girls 48kg gold while Anurag Sagar added the boys 55kg top spot by beating Punjab’s Nakul Arora. Deeksha bagged the silver medal in the girls 44kg category after going down against Ankita N of Gujarat.

Chandigarh’s Sapna (girls 40kg) and Punjab’s Shivansh Vashisht (boys 50kg) clinched the other gold medals on offer.

Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu’s Navyaa SH added second gold medal from Yogasana to the state’s tally by clinching top spot in girls Traditional Yoga category with a total score of 64.75. West Bengal’s Aranya Hutait (64.42 points) and Ritu Mondal (63.5 points) clinched the silver and bronze respectively.

In the fencing competition being played at TNPESU, Manipur’s K Abhinash defeated Tejas Patil of Maharashtra in the boy’s Foil final.

In the Kabaddi competition, defending boy’s champion Haryana set up a summit clash against Rajasthan with a facile 45-28 victory over Maharashtra. Rajasthan had earlier beaten Tamil Nadu 41-23 in the other semi-final.

Results (till 7 pm):

Basketball

Girls:

Group A: Maharashtra bt Kerala 81-54; Tamil Nadu bt Chandigarh 109-45

Group B: Punjab bt Uttar Pradesh 88-25;

Boys:

Group A: Uttar Pradesh bt Mizoram 109-52;

Group B: Rajasthan bt Chandigarh 76-74; Tamil Nadu bt Karnataka 99-72

Boxing (quarterfinals)

Fencing

Boys:

Sabre: Gold medal match: Arlin AV (TN) bt Lakshya Badser (Har) 15-14; Bronze: Abhishek (Har), Shirish Angal (Mah)

Foil: K Abhinash (Man) bt Tejas Patil (Mah) 15-9; Bronze: Sachin (Har), Rohan Shah (Mah)

Judo:

Girls:

40kg: Gold — Sapna (CHG), Silver — Sommya Rani Kadapala (AP), Bronze – Kritika Soni (HP), Neelam (UTR)

44kg: Gold: Ankita N (Guj), Silver — Deeksha (Del); Bronze – Roshivina M (Man), Yuvika Tokas (Del)

48kg: Gold — Tannu Mann (Del), Silver — Jaanvi Yadav (Del), Bronze — Bhakti Bhosale (Mah), Nancy (Har)

Boys:

50kg: Gold – Shivansh Vashisht (Pun), Silver – Mohit Moolya (Mah), Bronze – Rickson Debbarma (TRI), Tang Tada (ARP)

55kg: Gold – Anurag Sagar (Del), Silver – Nakul Arora (Pun), Bronze — Om Sameer H (Mah), Yohenba Y (Man)

Hockey

Girls:

Group A: Chhattisgarh bt Tamil Nadu 6-0; Madhya Pradesh bt Mizoram 4-2

Group B: Odisha bt Jharkhand 5-1; Haryana bt Punjab 10-0

Boys:

Group A: Odisha bt Tamil Nadu 6-1, Madhya Pradesh bt Punjab 3-2

Group B:

Kabaddi (semifinals- till filing report)

Boys: Rajasthan bt Tamil Nadu 41-23; Haryana bt Maharashtra 45-28

Squash (Round of 8)

Girls: 1-Pooja Arthi (TN) bt Yashi Jain (Raj) 11-4, 11-4, 11-6; Shameena Riaz (TN) bt Khushboo (UP) 11-2, 11-0, 11-4; Deepika V (TN) bt Chhavi Saran (Raj) 11-5, 11-6, 11-9; 2-Nirupama Dubey (Mah) bt Unnati Tripathi (UP) 14-12, 5-11, 12-10, 14-16, 11-9

Boys: 1-Tanveet Singh Mundra (MP) bt Ansh Tripathi (UP) 11-8; 11-6, 11-6; Sandesh Pr (TN) bt L Meyyapan (TN) 11-9, 11-9, 11-5; Arihant Ks (TN) bt Karan Yadav (UP) 11-9, 4-11, 11-2, 11-8; 2-Aryan Pratap Singh (UP) bt Alalokit Singh (Raj) 14-12, 12-14, 11-5, 8-11, 11-9

Yogasana

Girls: Traditional: Gold – Navyaa SH (TN) 64.75 points; Silver – Aranya Hutait (WB) 64.42; Bronze – Ritu Mondal (WB) 63.5

by Abhishek Shukla

Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024: Satwik-Chirag finish runners-up after going down against world champions Kang and Seo

New Delhi, January 21, 2024: Asian Games gold medallists Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy fought hard but could not get the better of world champions Kang Min Hyuk and Seo Seung Jae of South Korea in the men’s doubles final of the Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Sunday.

The Indian combination went down 15-21, 21-11, 21-18 in an hour and five minutes to finish runners-up in the BWF Super 750 badminton tournament, organised by the Badminton Association of India.

Reflecting on the result, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy said,“We started off quite well in the first game but in the second we couldn’t really start well, and in no time we were down by 11-5. From then on, it was quite difficult to come back and yes they (Kang and Seo) were quite a formidable defensive pair. Overall we are sad, losing the final in our home tournament but there are a lot of positives, the last two weeks have been really good. We are still hungry and are not satisfied. We will start off again in the next few days for All England and French Open.”

Earlier, China’s Shi Yu Qi ended his two-year wait for a title when he ended the dream run of Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu 23-21, 21-17 in the men’s singles final.

“This victory in 2024 holds immense significance for my career. Given the prestigious nature of this tournament and the fact that it took place in India is a stroke of good fortune for me. There were many challenging moments & difficulties but the unwavering support from my team is a key catalyst to my win,”expressed Shi Yu Qi on the prominence of his win today.

Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Tai Tzu Ying of Chinese Taipei clinched the women’s singles crown with a 21-16, 21-12 victory over Chen Yu Fei of China 21-16, 21-12.

“I was feeling a bit nervous, but while I was playing, I got a lot of support from the audience, which made me play well in today’s match. After the quarter finals there was very less time for practice and preparations so I didn’t have much of it. All the things got resolved in the court itself,”commented Tai Tzu Ying after her victory.

Japan’s Mayu Matsumoto and Wakana Nagahara were crowned Women’s Doubles champions after defeating Zhang Shu Xian and Zheng Yu of China 21-12, 21-13 while Thailand’s Dechapol Puavaranukroh and Sapsiree Taerattanachai clinched the Mixed Doubles title with a 21-16, 21-16 victory over World No. 5 Chinese combination of Jiang Zhen Bang and Wei Ya Xin.

But it was the men’s doubles final that kept everyone on the edge as the match swung either way.

The second-seeded Indians, who had won the title in 2021, started the match with an attacking approach. Playing with the wind, Chirag and Satwik engaged their opponents in flat exchanges. Though the Koreans managed to keep pace with them till 7-7, the Indians slowly but surely pulled away with Chirag dominating the net exchanges to pocket the opening game.

The tables were turned in the second as the Indians committed quite a few errors trying to attack the serve and quickly fell behind 1-5. Left-handed Seo managed to leave Chirag and Satwik flag-footed on a couple of occasions with his deceptive cross-court drives as the Koreans clinched nine straight points from 7-5 and then maintained that momentum to force the decider.

In the final game, the Koreans were again quick off the block and changed ended leading 11-6. This is when the Indians began their fightback with Chirag once again attacking the net with much more precision.

The Indians, who had finished runners-up last week in the Malaysia Open, managed to close the gap to 18-19 and raised hopes of yet another come-from-behind win over the world champions. But Seo’s cross-court push to Satwik’s forehand helped the Koreans earn their first match point and they made no mistake in wrapping things up on the very first attempt.

“We were not good at speed in the beginning but later we worked on our actions and attacking portions, which eventually led to our win. We did not get nervous with the cheering crowd, as we have already played in similar situations before and we have had enough experience playing in similar environments. The opponent had good skills in the attacking portions as well, so we played 1 point at a time and made sure that we didn’t get nervous about it,”stated Kang Min Hyuk and Seo Seung Jae after the final.

With a prize pool of USD 850,000, the Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024 witnessed the participation of 247 shuttlers from 23 countries who enthralled the fans with their captivating performances.

by Abhishek Shukla

‘The level of professionalism in tennis has grown a lot in the last 20 years,’ says World No. 1 Novak Djokovic

Mumbai, 21st January 2024: Chasing a record 25th Grand Slam, Novak Djokovic reached the quarter-finals of Australian Open 2024 as he swept past Adrian Mannarino in straight sets on Sunday, 21st January. Following the magnificent win, Djokovic took to Sony Sports Network’s studio show Extraaa Serve and spoke in length with expert panellist Somdev Devvarman.

The former India No. 1 tennis professional questioned Djokovic, who has been a successful part of world tennis in the last two decades, on how has the sport changed over the years and what is required to be a successful player at the top level in the current scenario. “The physicality is a big part of it. Players today are very fit,” began Djokovic.

“I don’t think at the top level if there is any player who lacks flexibility, explosiveness, strength etc. Everyone travels with big team comprised by a physiologist, psychologist, nutritionist, analytics and other coaches. That is the biggest difference I have noticed in these 20 years. The level of professionalism has grown a lot,” he explained.

He went on to shed light on how the players and their coaching staff are more focused on monitoring the fitness levels, dietary plans, medical check-ups etc. in order to ensure they are prepared for every challenge on court. Djokovic also elucidated on how players still do suffer from injuries and attributed it to the higher intensity of the game, the increased number of matches and tournaments, change in formats and also the other exhibition events which they play in the off season.

He went on to advise the young players on maintaining an appropriate schedule saying, “It is important to be smart about your calendar. Even though you are a young player and you want to travel here and there for different tournaments or exhibition matches because they are paying you big money, you just need to see the bigger picture. I was fortunate during my time, to be surrounded by people who advised me well on how to manage my calendar. So, I wasn’t chasing things around and playing every week. It has benefited me in a lot of ways and helped me have a long career.”

Furthermore, the 36-year-old also spoke in detail about his routine and the things he does off the court that help him on court. “My style is more intense, rigorous, structured days of commitment, training, recovery and that of preparation of mental, physical, emotional, spiritual to get myself at the right level, perform at my best level and be the best in the world. It’s important to strike the right balance between being active and then resting,” stated the World No. 1.

Before concluding, Djokovic revealed the activities he prefers to do in the ‘second part of the day’ where he doesn’t have any commitments and obligations. “Normally, in the second part of the day when I don’t have the obligations or other commitments, I love to research on things that inspire me. I love history and everything about nature, human body and experience; how to live a profound and fulfilling life in every aspect. I also like to listen to podcasts and TED Talks. I like to learn new things because at the end of the day, you want to be the best version of yourself.”

The Serbian legend will take on Taylor Fritz in the Australian Open 2024 quarter-final clash on Wednesday, 24th January.

by Abhishek Shukla

Bounedjah Snatches Late Draw in Drama Filled Tie Against Burkina Faso

In a match filled with excitement and drama, Algeria and Burkina Faso ended their second TotalEnergies Group D match with a 2-2 draw, leaving both teams to share the points. The game, held on Saturday afternoon, was crucial for Algeria after their draw against Angola in their opening match.

The first half of the match was evenly balanced, but it was Burkina Faso who broke the deadlock just before the halftime whistle. Mohamed Konate’s stunning header gave the Stallions the lead, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.

Algeria returned from the break with determination, and Baghdad Bounedjah quickly equalized in the 51st minute, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up. The momentum seemed to shift towards Algeria, who dominated the game but failed to convert their numerous chances. This inability to capitalize was costly as Burkina Faso regained their lead in the 71st minute through a penalty converted by Bertrand Traore.

The drama intensified as the match neared its end, with Algeria pushing for an equalizer and Burkina Faso looking to secure their lead through counter-attacks. In a climactic turn of events, Bounedjah emerged as Algeria’s hero, scoring a brace in the dying seconds of the match to restore parity. His effort to rise above his markers and find the net ensured Algeria remained in contention for a place in the knockout stage.

The group’s final match will see Algeria facing Mauritania on Tuesday, while Burkina Faso, the group leaders, will take on Angola. The result of these matches will determine the final standings in the group and the teams that advance to the next stage of the competition.

by Abhishek Shukla

Bahrain Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive with Last-Gasp Victory Over Malaysia

Doha: In a dramatic turn of events, Bahrain secured a crucial 1-0 win against Malaysia in Group E of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar™ 2023, thanks to Ali Madan’s late goal at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Saturday. The victory has revitalized Bahrain’s chances of progressing to the knockout stage.

With the game seemingly headed for a draw, Bahrain found their moment of breakthrough in the closing seconds. Madan’s decisive strike not only earned Bahrain three vital points but also ended Malaysia’s hopes in the tournament. Bahrain now sets its sights on the upcoming match against Jordan, where a win could potentially seal their spot in the next round.

Malaysia, on the other hand, faces a challenging task as they prepare to conclude their campaign against a strong Korea Republic side.

The result has left the group wide open, with Bahrain’s revival adding an exciting twist to the competition. Both teams will now focus on their final group stage matches, with high stakes and everything to play for.

by Abhishek Shukla

Late Own Goal Denies Jordan Victory in Tense 2-2 Draw with Korea Republic

AL THUMAMA STADIUM, QATAR: A dramatic injury-time own goal by Jordan’s Yazan Al Arab snatched victory from the jaws of defeat for Korea Republic, resulting in a 2-2 draw in an enthralling AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Group E match. The clash at Al Thumama Stadium was a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving both teams on four points after their opening two group games.

The game started with Korea Republic showing early dominance. However, Jordan’s resilient defense, coupled with strategic counterattacks, kept the Korean advances at bay. The first half was a tightly contested affair, with both teams creating chances but failing to capitalize on them.

The deadlock was finally broken in the first half’s injury time when Yazan Al Naimat put Jordan ahead. Capitalizing on a rare lapse in the Korean defense, Al Naimat’s strike was a moment of brilliance, sending the Jordanian fans into a frenzy.

The second half saw Korea Republic intensify their attacks, searching for an equalizer. Their efforts paid off when Cho Gue-sung, the team’s talisman, leveled the scoreline. Cho’s goal invigorated the Korean side, who continued to press for a winning goal.

As the match seemed to be heading towards a draw, a heart-wrenching moment for Jordan occurred in injury time. In an attempt to clear a dangerous cross from the Korean attackers, Yazan Al Arab accidentally directed the ball into his own net, gifting Korea Republic a dramatic equalizer.

The match ended 2-2, a result that keeps both teams’ hopes alive in the tournament but will be remembered for its dramatic finale. Jordan’s performance was commendable, as they managed to hold their ground against a strong Korean team. For Korea Republic, the late equalizer was a lifeline in a match where they struggled to break down a stubborn Jordanian defense.

As the group stages progress, both teams will look to build on this result in their quest for success in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™.

by Abhishek Shukla

Pawan Sehrawat masterclass leads Telugu Titans to huge win at home

20th January, Hyderabad: The Telugu Titans beat the U.P. Yoddhas 49-32 at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium on Saturday. The loss extended the U.P. Yoddhas losing slump and have the Telugu Titans a much-needed boost in front of a loud home crowd.  

The first half was defined by the whims of the Telugu Titans’ Pawan Sehrawat, who found form and grit at the perfect stage in front of the home fans. Pawan scored 16 points and he really set the tone for the Telugu Titans dominance on the day.

They inflicted the first ALL OUT in the 10th minute of the game to take a 15-9 lead and never let go after that. The Telugu Titans managed to keep Pardeep Narwal through the half to boost their dominance and take a 24-16 lead at the break.

The onslaught continued into the second half and within three minutes the Titans inflicted a second ALL OUT to extend their lead. Even as Sehrawat led the charge his counterpart Omkar Patil’s crucial points kept the U.P. Yoddhas on the back foot.

By the time they got their third ALL OUT the result was moot. It was more about what the difference would be. As it was Patil and Sehrawat both completed their 10 point hails and the U.P. Yoddhas slumped to another huge loss.

Pro Kabaddi League Season 10, 2023 
Points Table 
Position Team Matches Won Lost Tied Points Score Diff Points conceded Points scored 
1 Jaipur Pink Panthers 14 10 2 2 58 54 427 481 
2 Puneri Paltan 12 10 2 0 52 156 325 481 
3 Dabang Delhi K.C. 14 8 4 2 49 32 466 498 
4 Gujarat Giants 13 8 5 0 44 8 429 437 
5 Haryana Steelers 13 7 5 1 39 -26 494 468 
6 Bengal Warriors 13 6 5 2 38 5 485 490 
7 U Mumba 13 6 6 1 37 6 487 493 
8 Patna Pirates 14 6 7 1 37 3 526 529 
9 Bengaluru Bulls 14 6 8 0 37 -30 487 457 
10 Tamil Thalaivas 13 4 9 0 25 -14 462 448 
11 U.P. Yoddhas 15 3 11 1 23 -54 575 521 
12 Telugu Titans 14 2 12 0 15 -140 595 455 

Please see below the PKL Season 10 match on 21st January

Game 1 – Bengaluru Bulls vs Tamil Thalaivas- 8 pm

Game 2- Gujarat Giants vs Puneri Paltan- 9 pm 

Venue: Hyderabad

Season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and for free on Disney+ Hotstar.  

by Abhishek Shukla

Ashu Singh scores 17 points as Dabang Delhi KC beat U Mumba 39-33 

20th January, Hyderabad: Dabang Delhi KC returned to winning ways as they earned a 39-33 win over U Mumba in the Pro Kabaddi League match at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium on Saturday. Ashu Malik played a captain’s role for Dabang Delhi KC again as he bagged an impressive 17 raid points, while Guman Singh was U Mumba’s key performer with 13 raid points. 

It was a topsy-turvy contest to begin as both sides traded the lead frequently. U Mumba inched ahead to lead 9-5, but then Dabang Delhi KC struck back through some resolute defending. Vishal Bhardwaj came off the bench to execute 2 SUPER TACKLES and Dabang Delhi KC were back in business. However, it was U Mumba who grabbed an ALL OUT in the dying stages of the half to take a slender lead. But Dabang Delhi KC found a way back into the game via a multi-point raid from Ashu that saw both sides go into the break tied at 16-16. 

Dabang Delhi KC upped the ante in the 2nd half as Ashu grabbed 3 quick points before Pranay Rane stepped into the lobbies for an ALL OUT and the team from Delhi took the lead. They led 22-17 with 3 minutes played in the 2nd half. Dabang Delhi KC calmly extended their lead and it looked like they were running away with the game until Guman produced a marvellous SUPER RAID. He escaped the clutches of four defenders to give his side a fighting chance at 28-25. That raid also brought up his 6th Super 10 of the season. 

With 10 minutes left, Dabang Delhi KC were down to 3 men and U Mumba sniffed a comeback. They made an inspired substitution as Heidarali Ekrami came off the bench to pick up a couple of crucial points to reduce the deficit to just 3 points at 33-36, but an excellent SUPER TACKLE from Manjeet in the final minute saw Dabang Delhi KC snap up a thrilling victory. 

Pro Kabaddi League Season 10, 2023 
Points Table 
Position Team Matches Won Lost Tied Points Score Diff Points conceded Points scored 
1 Jaipur Pink Panthers 14 10 2 2 58 54 427 481 
2 Puneri Paltan 12 10 2 0 52 156 325 481 
3 Dabang Delhi K.C. 14 8 4 2 49 32 466 498 
4 Gujarat Giants 13 8 5 0 44 8 429 437 
5 Haryana Steelers 13 7 5 1 39 -26 494 468 
6 Bengal Warriors 13 6 5 2 38 5 485 490 
7 U Mumba 13 6 6 1 37 6 487 493 
8 Patna Pirates 14 6 7 1 37 3 526 529 
9 Bengaluru Bulls 14 6 8 0 37 -30 487 457 
10 Tamil Thalaivas 13 4 9 0 25 -14 462 448 
11 U.P. Yoddhas 14 3 10 1 23 -37 526 489 
12 Telugu Titans 13 1 12 0 10 -157 563 406 

Please see below the PKL Season 10 match on 21st January

Game 1 – Bengaluru Bulls vs Tamil Thalaivas- 8 pm

Game 2- Gujarat Giants vs Puneri Paltan- 9 pm 

Venue: Hyderabad

Season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and for free on Disney+ Hotstar.  

by Abhishek Shukla

Rutuja crashes out in semis, Darja in line for golden double at KPB Trust ITF Women’s Open

Bengaluru, Jan 20:  India’s last hope Rutuja Bhosale went down tamely to sixth seed Carole Monnet in the semifinals of the KPB Trust ITF Women’s Open. The 27-year-old lost 2-6, 0-6 to the Frenchwoman in just 63 minutes at the KSLTA Stadium here on Saturday.

Carole will meet the top seed Darja Semenistaja in the title clash to be played on Sunday. The Latvian overcame the challenge of qualifier Naho Sato of Japan 6-4, 6-1 in the other semifinal.

Darja thus placed herself for in line for a golden double after the 21-year-old combined with Italian Camilla Rosatello to overcome the challenge of Yu-Yun Li of Taipei and Eri Shimizu of Japan 3-6, 6-2, 10-8 to wear the women’s doubles crown.

Carole held the upper hand from the word ‘go’ as she broke Rutuja’s serve in the second game to go 2-0 up. The Indian managed to break her rival’s serve in the third game post which both the opponents broke each other’s serve. However, the inconsistent Rutuja lost her serves in the 6th and 8th game to hand over the set to the visitor.

In the second set, the 22-year-old Carole did not give a semblance of a chance to an error-prone Rutuja as she blanked the Asian Games gold medallist with breaks in the 2nd, 4th and 6th games to enter the title round.

In the other semifinal, the top seed Darja raced to a 4-0 lead against Naho Sato with breaks in the first and third games. The unseeded Japanese showed signs of recovery as she broke her opponent’s serve in the fifth game and led a superb fightback after being 1-5 down by winning three games on a trot, earning breaks in the 7th and 9th games. However, she was unable to hold her serve in the next game, which cost her the set.

The winner of 14 ITF titles, Darja played some powerful shots and dominated almost the entire 31 minutes of the second set where she took a 5-0 lead with two breaks in the 2nd and 4th games. The best the petite Japanese could do was to hold her serve in the 6th game before the south paw closed out the set and match.   

Results (Bracket indicates country, pre-fix indicates seeding)

Singles Semifinals

1-Darja Semenistaja (LAT) bt Q-Naho Sato (JPN) 6-4, 6-1; 6-Carole Monnet (FRA) bt WC-Rutuja Bhosale (IND) 6-2, 6-0;

Doubles Finals

1-Camilla Rosatello (ITA)/Darja Semenistaja (LAT) bt Yu-Yun Li (TPE)/Eri Shimizu (JPN) 3-6, 6-2, 10-8.

by Abhishek Shukla

Kalinga Super Cup 2024: Chennaiyin take on Mumbai City in do-or-die match

Bhubaneswar, January 20, 2024: Chennaiyin FC will be keen to replicate their impressive winning performance from the last game against Gokulam Kerala FC when they lock horns with Mumbai City FC in their final Group ‘C’ match of the Kalinga Super Cup 2024 at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha on Sunday.

With both teams occupying the first two spots in the group table and just two points separating them, the Sunday blockbuster will be a virtual knock-out and a victory will see Chennaiyin qualify for the semi-finals.

The Marina Machans are coming into the match after a comfortable 2-0 win against Gokulam Kerala. The two goals scored in the victory also exhibited a great coordination between Chennaiyin’s midfield and attack.

Head coach Owen Coyle termed Mumbai City as a tough opponent but said his men are positive about the game and are looking forward to securing the semi-finals spot.

“The big thing now is focusing and getting ready for the Mumbai game. Looking to win a game against a very good side and taking ourselves into the semi-finals. They [Mumbai City] have very good players. But, we know that if we are at our best then we can win the game. And that is what we want to do.

“We want to make sure that we are really positive and it suits us. So, (they are) tough opponents but we are looking forward to it,” Coyle commented ahead of the crucial match.

Chennaiyin have won seven times in 22 matches played against Mumbai City so far with three games ending in draws.

The final will be played on January 28 as the winners of the Kalinga Super Cup 2024 will secure themselves a spot in the 2024-25 AFC Champions League 2 Group stages.

by Abhishek Shukla

85th Sub-Junior and Cadet National TT-Day 5

Indore, January 20: Even when a state gets 75 percent of its composition right in team championship events, it invariably ends up on the winning side. If you are cent percent accurate with the selection of your team, it leaves room for no other lineup whatsoever.

That is what the state of Maharashtra has done for the 85th UTT Cadet and Sub-Junior National Table Tennis Championships, getting underway tomorrow at the Abhay Prashal Indoor Stadium.

After their boys finished a disappointing fifth position, Maharashtra would want to shore up their expectations and satiate their appetite with no less than the gold medals. And you can bet that the job is in the capable hands of Divyanshi Bhowmick, Riana Bhoota, Kavya Bhatt, and Ishika Umate, such a formidable bench strength which other contenders would only dream about or envy.

Under the circumstances, the job of other top teams like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Delhi, who are sure shots to finish on the podium, becomes difficult, if not impossible. Yet, Bengal has two brightest youngsters, Syndrela Das and Ankolika Chakraborty, who can provide a twist to the tale. The former made waves across sections in the 2023 season, and it should worry even Maharashtra. But the two alone cannot achieve a wholesome result and would need the support of Prateeti Paul and Aarush Nandi.

In comparison, Tamil Nadu has a better lineup in M. Hansini, Ananaya Muralidharan, Nandhini Reena Balaji, and Yavanika Harimakeshwaran. The first three are seasoned campaigners and must share the team load. But for Tamil Nadu to win a medal, Hansini would be the go-to player for the state. Delhi will look up to Avisha Karmakar, Prisha Goel and Dhaani Jain to elevate their position with Tushti Sood. However, the job will be easier said than done.

The dark horse in the championships will be Kolkata’s National Centre of Excellence (NCOE), thanks to Ranjini Saha. She is their best bet, but the loner cannot accomplish much other than winning her two singles. Most teams sail in a similar boat and rely on one or two players, putting an extra burden on them. Besides, it also points to the need for steady supply lines from all states and grooming players with much-needed exposure at this level.

The Petroleum Sports Promotion Board Academy is on track but still in its infancy. Maybe, a few years from now, the PSPBA and NCOE can prove themselves and hold the mirror to those lacking imagination.

However, the individuals get the opportunities to prove and shine in the singles and doubles. They need not feel despair, as they are in the thick of the championships. The group qualification events in Under-13 and Under-15 will also start tomorrow.

Competition Manager N. Ganeshan said T.G. Upadhaya, as referee for the championships, will continue with his deputies, Mangesh Mopker and K.R. Manjunatha. They all will rely on 50 other technical officials, including Blue Badge and International umpires.

Team Groupings:

Group A: Maharashtra, Pondicherry, PSPBA; Group B: West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan (TTFI-1); Group C: Tamil Nadu, Goa, Uttarakhand, Daman & Diu; Group D: Delhi, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, J & K; Group E: Chandigarh, Kerala, Assam, Punjab; Group F: Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh; Group G: Gujarat, NCOE, Rajasthan (TTFI-2), Bihar; Group H: Karnataka, Telangana, Jharkhand, Meghalaya.

by Abhishek Shukla

Gopi T eyes event record at Tata Mumbai Marathon

Mumbai, 20th January 2024: Gopi is looking to get into the groove in his favourite race for two more marathons to come before Paris 2024. “I will aim for the course record at Tata Mumbai Marathon, my preparations have been good in the Sports Authority of India complex in Bengaluru. The temperatures were high there, Mumbai is hotter than last year so I don’t know what to expect.” He is running here after a 2:14:58 at the TCS Amsterdam Marathon last year, hoping to find form in Mumbai.  

The direct qualification time in the men’s marathon for Paris 2024 is 2:08. Gopi’s personal best of 2:13:39 was at the Seoul Marathon 2022, forcing the Army runner to aim for qualification via the average route. “Runners who don’t qualify automatically have the option to average the best five race timings. I feel 2:12 will be needed at Mumbai or in two races ahead for making the grade, one in India and one abroad.”  

Srinu Bugatha (PB 2:14:59 New Delhi Marathon 2021) and Kalidas Hirve are others running among the Indian men in the fray.  

The Indian elite winners stand a chance to win Rs 500,000 each for the champion in the men’s and women’s categories, down to the seventh position.   

Jigme Dolma, Aarti Patil, and Nirmaben Thakor are prominent names in the women’s marathon.  

Leh runner Jigmat trains in high altitude at home and will bank on endurance to perform. 

Nima said, “Women don’t believe in themselves. The thought that they can’t do it is stuck in their minds. Once people start believing in themselves anything is achievable.” 

Second runner-up at TMM 2023, Kalidas dwelt on the ethics aspect, in a message to amateur distance runners aiming for places and prize money. Kalidas added: “I get queries from young runners on social media about quick-fix solutions to winning races. My advice is to avoid short-cut methods and pay attention to continuous training, rest and recovery. Amateur runners should listen to their coach instead of getting swayed by shortcuts. There is no shortcut in long-distance running.”  

by Abhishek Shukla

‘Akshit was our surprise package for Telugu Titans,’ says Bengaluru Bulls’ Head Coach Randhir Singh

HYDERABAD, 20th January 2024: The Bengaluru Bulls produced a masterclass to defeat Telugu Titans 42-26 in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 on Friday. 

Speaking about the match, Bengaluru Bulls’ Head Coach Randhir Singh said, “We needed to stop Pawan from scoring too many points and we did that. I knew that they would play very freely as they have nothing to lose. Pawan didn’t score a Super 10 against us and he’s been recording Super 10s quite regularly this season.”

The Bengaluru side’s youngster Akshit emerged as the star player for the Bulls with 9 raid points on the night. When asked about his performance, the Head Coach said, “I had said before the start of the game that I would give a surprise and hopefully, he’ll keep doing well in the upcoming games. I put him under strenuous training in the last two days. He played very well and he was tackled just once in the game. He was our best player against Telugu Titans.”

The Pro Kabaddi League veteran Surjeet Singh was at the forefront of the Bulls’ defence unit against the Titans. Speaking about Surjeet, Randhir Singh expressed, “He’s a good player, but he needed to learn how to be patient. Earlier, he would score five points and give away three to four points as well. Now I have taught him to be patient and I would like to congratulate him for his performance against Telugu Titans.”

The Bengaluru Bulls will be next in action when they take on Tamil Thalaivas on Sunday.

Please find below the schedule for PKL Season 10 matches today

Game 1 – Dabang Delhi K.C. vs U Mumba  – 8 pm

Game 2 – Telugu Titans vs U.P. Yoddhas – 9 pm

Venue: Hyderabad

Season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and for free on Disney+ hotstar.  

by Abhishek Shukla

Raiders’ Legendary Run: Revisiting Marcus Allen’s Super Bowl Brilliance

TAMPA, 1984 – It was a moment that remains etched in NFL lore, a brilliant burst of athleticism that turned the tide of Super Bowl XVIII and cemented Marcus Allen’s legacy as one of the greatest running backs in the history of the league.

In what became known as “Black Sunday,” the Los Angeles Raiders delivered a masterclass in football dominance, culminating in a play narrated with poetic grace by the late John Facenda, whose voice has immortalized some of the NFL’s most significant moments. It was the third quarter at Tampa Stadium when the Raiders’ Cliff Branch fumbled, giving the Washington team a spark of hope. However, that spark was quickly extinguished by the Raiders’ impenetrable defense.

With the stakes high and the Raiders facing a fourth-and-1, the decision was clear: the ball would go to Marcus Allen. The play, initially designed to go inside the corner linebacker, quickly went awry. Yet, it showcased Allen’s remarkable adaptability. Evading the defense with an agile reversal of his field, he found an opening and launched into a sprint that would see him evade tacklers with a grace that seemed almost serene amidst the chaos.

Bill King, the voice of the Raiders, captured the play with his riveting narration: “Plunkett giving to Allen, sending him wide left…,” and what followed was not merely a run, but a 74-yard journey into history. King’s voice rose in crescendo as Allen broke tackles and weaved through the defense, “…the 5 – TOUCHDOWN RAIDERS!” The Raiders’ offensive line, known as the “marauding maurauders,” had paved the way for a play that symbolized their collective power.

Allen’s touchdown run, the longest in Super Bowl history at that time, was more than just a score; it was a dramatic assertion of the Raiders’ superiority on football’s biggest stage. His performance throughout the game was nothing short of stellar, earning him the Super Bowl MVP honors.

The final score read Los Angeles Raiders 38, Washington 9, and the victory remains one of the most commanding in Super Bowl history. Allen’s legendary performance, where he rushed for a then-record 191 yards, was the centerpiece of the Raiders’ triumph and a testament to his extraordinary talent.

Today, we look back at that iconic run, not only as a pivotal play in a game but as a timeless narrative that continues to inspire awe in the hearts of football fans everywhere. The legacy of Marcus Allen and the Raiders’ indomitable spirit lives on, a permanent fixture in the annals of NFL history.

by Abhishek Shukla

Seth Jones Scores First Season Goal in Overtime, Blackhawks Win 4-3 Over Islanders

CHICAGO, IL – In a thrilling finish, Seth Jones scored his first goal of the season just 22 seconds into overtime, propelling the Chicago Blackhawks to a 4-3 victory against the New York Islanders at United Center on Friday. Jones’ long-awaited goal came as a relief, marking an end to his scoring drought.

For the Blackhawks (14-30-2), the win brought a positive note amidst a challenging stretch where they had lost four of their previous five games (1-3-1). Petr Mrazek, guarding the net, made 26 saves, contributing significantly to the victory.

The Islanders (19-15-11), despite a strong showing, couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities, ending their four-game road trip without a win (0-3-1) and extending a difficult run where they have only one win in their last seven games.

Kyle Palmieri stood out for the Islanders with a goal and an assist, while Noah Dobson contributed two assists. Ilya Sorokin, in goal, made 20 saves. Lane Lambert, the Islanders’ coach, expressed his disappointment with the team’s performance and highlighted the need for improvement from key players.

Chicago’s offense was bolstered by Joey Anderson and Jason Dickinson, who each had a goal and an assist. Boris Katchouk also found the net, scoring his first goal of the season and tying the game in the second period.

The Islanders initially led with Brock Nelson scoring early in the first period. Chicago responded with vigor, with Anderson giving them a lead late in the second period. Dickinson extended this lead in the third period, but the Islanders fought back with goals from Bo Horvat and Palmieri, tying the game and forcing overtime.

Jones’ timely goal in overtime was a fitting end to a competitive game and a much-needed boost for the Blackhawks. The Islanders, meanwhile, face the challenge of regaining their form as they continue through the season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Wild’s Power-Play Prowess Leads to 6-4 Victory Over Panthers

SUNRISE, FL – The Minnesota Wild showcased their power-play prowess by scoring five goals with the man-advantage, leading them to a 6-4 win against the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena on Friday. Kirill Kaprizov and Ryan Hartman played pivotal roles, with Kaprizov scoring twice and adding an assist, while Hartman netted two goals.

The victory marked a crucial turnaround for the Wild (19-21-5), who had been struggling with only one win in their last six games. Coach John Hynes praised the team’s competitiveness and resilience, essential in overcoming the recent slump.

The Panthers (27-14-4), despite Aaron Ekblad’s impressive performance with a goal and three assists, couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities and extend their nine-game winning streak, losing four straight games instead.

Marc-Andre Fleury started for Minnesota but left in the second period due to an upper-body injury, with Filip Gustavsson taking over. Florida’s Sam Reinhart saw his eight-game goal streak come to an end, a significant blow to the Panthers’ offensive efforts.

The Wild’s power-play efficiency was the highlight of the game. After Kaprizov opened the scoring, Hartman and Brock Faber extended the lead with power-play goals. Mats Zuccarello’s goal in the second period led to both goalies, Fleury and Sergei Bobrovsky, exiting the game. Eetu Luostarinen and Anton Lundell brought the Panthers closer, but Kaprizov’s second power-play goal and Hartman’s empty-netter sealed the win for Minnesota.

Florida’s coach Paul Maurice acknowledged the team’s struggles in key areas like face-offs and penalty kills, which typically have been strengths this season. The Panthers also missed several opportunities to block shots, contributing to their defeat.

For the Wild, Kaprizov’s performance stood out, with 15 points in his past 10 games, while rookie defenseman Faber recorded his first three-point game in the NHL. The Panthers’ Ekblad and Gustav Forsling were each plus-4, and forward Matthew Tkachuk became the fastest in team history to reach 100 assists, achieving the milestone in just 124 games.

The Wild’s victory, powered by their effective power play, represents a significant boost for the team, while the Panthers face the challenge of bouncing back from their recent setbacks.

by Abhishek Shukla

Devils Rally in Second Period to Top Blue Jackets 4-1

COLUMBUS, OH — The New Jersey Devils staged a remarkable comeback, scoring four unanswered goals in the second period to secure a 4-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on Friday. This win marks a turnaround for the Devils, who had lost their previous two games and four of their last five.

John Marino, Alexander Holtz, Nico Hischier, and Nathan Bastian each found the back of the net for the Devils (23-17-3), while Vitek Vanecek contributed with 29 saves. Hischier, the New Jersey captain, stressed the importance of persistence and resilience, which played a crucial role in their victory.

The Blue Jackets (14-22-9) opened the scoring with Cole Sillinger’s goal, assisted by Yegor Chinakhov. However, Elvis Merzlikins, despite making 28 saves, couldn’t hold off the Devils’ onslaught in the second period.

The Devils’ comeback began with Marino tying the game early in the second period. Holtz then put New Jersey ahead, followed by Hischier and Bastian’s goals that solidified their lead.

Columbus coach Pascal Vincent acknowledged the Devils’ effective transition game and lamented his team’s lack of sustained pressure and energy. Despite a late potential goal by Sillinger, a successful offside challenge by the Devils maintained their three-goal lead.

Boone Jenner’s return for Columbus, after missing 15 games due to injury, couldn’t prevent the Blue Jackets’ defeat. His presence wasn’t enough to counter the Devils’ strong play, particularly in the second period where they capitalized on Columbus’ mistakes.

This victory showcases the Devils’ capability to stage comebacks, tying them with the Colorado Avalanche for the NHL lead in this regard. Holtz’s recent goal-scoring form and Sillinger’s continued scoring streak for Columbus were also notable aspects of the game.

by Abhishek Shukla

Hurricanes Defeat Red Wings 4-2, Svechnikov and Aho Shine

RALEIGH, N.C. — The Carolina Hurricanes triumphed over the Detroit Red Wings with a 4-2 victory at PNC Arena on Friday, led by standout performances from Andrei Svechnikov and Sebastian Aho. Svechnikov’s crucial power-play goal in the third period put the Hurricanes in the lead, capitalizing on a rebound from Aho’s deflected shot.

Jordan Martinook continued his impressive form, extending his goal streak to four games, contributing to the Hurricanes’ solid run of 8-1-1 in their last ten games. Martin Necas also had a goal and an assist, with Michael Bunting assisting twice. Goalie Antti Raanta made 10 saves, playing a key role in the win.

Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour praised the team’s consistent effort and adherence to the game plan, which was instrumental in securing the two points.

Detroit’s eight-game point streak came to an end despite goals from Klim Kostin and J.T. Compher. Goalkeeper Alex Lyon made 26 saves but couldn’t prevent the Red Wings’ defeat. Coach Derek Lalonde recognized the team’s need for more offensive breakthroughs and commended their growing comfort in tight games.

Kostin opened the scoring for Detroit with a first-period breakaway goal, but Carolina responded with Martinook’s tip-in and Necas’ wrist shot in the second period. Compher’s power-play goal later tied the game, setting the stage for Carolina’s late surge.

Aho sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final minutes, ensuring a comfortable finish for the Hurricanes. Detroit’s defense, which had been solid in previous games, allowing no more than three goals, faced a stronger offensive challenge from Carolina.

As the teams look ahead, Detroit prepares to face the Tampa Bay Lightning, while Carolina continues to build on their strong form. The Hurricanes’ ability to limit their opponent’s shots, leading the league in games allowing 20 or fewer shots, was once again evident in this matchup.

by Abhishek Shukla

Cam Thomas Leads Nets to 130-112 Victory Over Lakers

LOS ANGELES, CA – The Brooklyn Nets ended their four-game losing streak with a convincing 130-112 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night. Cam Thomas was the star of the show, scoring 33 points and helping the Nets dominate the second half to secure the victory. This win marks the Nets’ fourth in their last 18 games.

Thomas, who had an impressive 20-point performance in the first half, continued his scoring streak, making it his sixth 20-point half of the season. Nic Claxton contributed significantly with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Spencer Dinwiddie added 19 points, 13 of which came in a pivotal third quarter. The Nets outscored the Lakers 38-22 in the third quarter, tying their best point differential for a quarter this season.

The Nets’ offense was on full display, with 19 3-pointers made, including four each by Thomas, Dinwiddie, and Mikal Bridges. Their largest lead extended to 23 points in the final quarter.

The Lakers, now below .500 with a 21-22 record, received strong performances from Anthony Davis and LeBron James, who scored 26 and 24 points, respectively. D’Angelo Russell also contributed 20 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Nets’ offensive onslaught. The Lakers have struggled recently, with a 7-13 record since winning the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament.

Brooklyn’s comeback began early in the third quarter, erasing a six-point deficit with a significant 23-8 run. Bridges’ three-pointer was crucial in giving the Nets their first lead of the game.

Looking ahead, the Nets will face the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, while the Lakers will host Portland the same night. This victory for Brooklyn is a morale booster, especially after close defeats in their previous games, and they’ll aim to build on this performance in their upcoming fixtures.

by Abhishek Shukla

Trail Blazers Edge Pacers 118-115, Spoiling Siakam’s Debut with Indiana

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Portland Trail Blazers secured a 118-115 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Friday night, overshadowing Pascal Siakam’s debut with his new team. Jerami Grant led the way with a stellar 37-point performance, while Malcolm Brogdon contributed a season-high 30 points for Portland, which led by as many as 13 points during the game.

Siakam, recently traded from the Toronto Raptors, scored 21 points in his first game for the Pacers. Myles Turner had an impressive night with 29 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for Indiana. Tyrese Haliburton, returning from a hamstring injury, added 21 points and 17 assists to the Pacers’ efforts.

The game remained close in the final quarter, with Haliburton’s play pulling Indiana within striking distance. Turner’s late three-pointers kept the Pacers in contention, but Portland managed to hold off their opponents. Grant’s crucial free throw and Haliburton’s missed three-pointer in the final moments sealed the Blazers’ win.

Siakam’s arrival in Indiana is a significant addition to the team, playing alongside Haliburton. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed excitement about Siakam’s potential impact. Indiana, leading the league in scoring, faced a Blazers team ranked last in points per game.

Portland was without Anfernee Simons, battling an illness, while Deandre Ayton returned to the starting lineup after missing 11 games. The Blazers’ victory was also marked by dominance in points in the paint during the first half.

The game saw a setback for Portland rookie Scoot Henderson, who suffered a nasal contusion and did not return after a first-half incident.

Looking ahead, the Pacers will conclude their six-game road trip against the Phoenix Suns, while the Trail Blazers will visit the Los Angeles Lakers. This win for Portland demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, especially against high-scoring teams like Indiana.

by Abhishek Shukla

Dejounte Murray’s Late 3-Pointer Leads Hawks to 109-108 Win Over Heat

MIAMI, FL – On a night dedicated to celebrating Udonis Haslem’s jersey retirement, Dejounte Murray stole the show with a go-ahead 3-pointer in the final seconds, leading the Atlanta Hawks to a narrow 109-108 victory over the Miami Heat. This marked Murray’s second consecutive game-winning shot, following a similar feat against Orlando just two days prior.

Murray, who finished with a team-high 22 points, expressed his respect for Haslem but emphasized the Hawks’ determination to win, especially on such a significant night for Miami. His clutch performance was pivotal in overcoming a four-point deficit with just 35 seconds remaining.

Bogdan Bogdanovic added 17 points for Atlanta, with Jalen Johnson contributing 15 and Saddiq Bey chipping in with 14. The Hawks’ resilience was on full display as they executed down the stretch, culminating in Murray’s decisive three-pointer.

Miami saw strong performances from Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler, each scoring 25 points. Bam Adebayo added 21, with Duncan Robinson and Caleb Martin scoring 14 and 10, respectively. Despite a solid effort, the Heat’s 22-game home winning streak against Southeast Division opponents came to an end.

The final possession saw Miami unable to get a shot off, leaving coach Erik Spoelstra expressing disappointment in the play call. Meanwhile, Hawks coach Quin Snyder celebrated his 400th career regular-season win.

Atlanta played without star Trae Young, sidelined due to illness, yet managed to secure their third win in games without their lead scorer and playmaker.

The ceremony honoring Haslem’s career, marked by the raising of his No. 40 jersey to the arena rafters, extended the halftime break. Haslem expressed gratitude for the honor, having set high expectations for a Heat win on his night.

The Hawks’ victory, their third straight, showcased their ability to compete at a high level and pull off wins in critical moments. They now look forward to hosting Cleveland, while the Heat will face Orlando in their next matchup.

by Abhishek Shukla

Devin Booker’s 52-Point Performance Powers Suns to 123-109 Win Over Pelicans

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Devin Booker delivered a sensational performance, scoring a season-high 52 points, as the Phoenix Suns defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 123-109 on Friday night. This marked Booker’s second consecutive 50-point game against New Orleans, showcasing his scoring prowess in front of his family, who were present in the stands.

Booker, who had 25 points in the first quarter, demonstrated his scoring ability with an 18-of-30 shooting performance, including 6-of-11 from beyond the arc and a perfect 10-for-10 from the free-throw line. This game marks the sixth time in his career that Booker has reached the 50-point mark, with his career-high being 70 points against Boston in 2017.

Suns coach Frank Vogel lauded Booker’s “killer instinct” and his ability to balance scoring with playmaking under pressure. Kevin Durant contributed 26 points, and Jusuf Nurkic pulled down 15 rebounds, helping the Suns shoot 49.5% from the field and build a commanding 30-point lead in the second half.

Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 24 points, but New Orleans struggled from the three-point line, missing 32 of 42 attempts. This shooting inefficiency contrasted starkly with their previous game, where they set a franchise record for three-pointers made.

Pelicans coach Willie Green expressed disappointment with his team’s defensive effort, particularly from the starters, and acknowledged the need for improvement in that area.

The packed arena anticipated a high-stakes Western Conference matchup, but Booker’s extraordinary performance and the Suns’ overall efficiency proved too much for the Pelicans.

Looking ahead, the Suns will host Indiana, while the Pelicans will take on Utah in their next games. Booker’s standout performance reaffirms his status as one of the NBA’s elite scorers and a key figure in the Suns’ success this season.

by Abhishek Shukla

Denver Nuggets Edge Out Boston Celtics 102-100, Handing Them First Home Loss

BOSTON, MA – The Denver Nuggets secured a narrow 102-100 victory over the Boston Celtics on Friday night, ending the Celtics’ 20-game home winning streak. Jamal Murray and Nikola Jokic led the Nuggets with standout performances, scoring 35 and 34 points, respectively.

The game was a clash of potential NBA Finals contenders, with both teams showing their prowess. Murray highlighted the matchup as both teams threw “haymakers,” with Denver delivering the final punch. Jokic, the two-time NBA MVP, was particularly impressive, notching 12 rebounds and nine assists while efficiently shooting 14 of 22 from the field.

Jayson Tatum, who had the chance to tie the game in the closing moments, missed a contested fadeaway, finishing with 22 points and eight rebounds. Derrick White led the Celtics with 24 points, and Kristaps Porzingis added 21.

The Celtics, who opted not to double-team Jokic for most of the game, struggled to contain him. Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised the high-level performance of his All-Star players, emphasizing the importance of their effort against Boston’s strong defense.

Jokic’s performance was even more notable considering he played with a heavy heart following the sudden death of Warriors assistant coach Dejan Milosevic. Murray commended Jokic’s ability to play exceptionally under emotional duress.

The game was tightly contested, featuring 13 lead changes and eight ties. Denver’s comeback in the third quarter and Murray’s efficiency in the final period were crucial to their victory.

Boston will now embark on a three-game road trip, starting with Houston, while the Nuggets head to Washington to face the Wizards. This win for Denver signifies their ability to compete against top teams, and the Celtics will aim to bounce back after their first home loss of the season.

by Abhishek Shukla

LaMelo Ball Leads Hornets to 124-120 Victory Over Spurs, Ending Six-Game Losing Streak

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – LaMelo Ball showcased his fourth-quarter heroics by scoring 16 of his 28 points in the final period, leading the Charlotte Hornets to a 124-120 win against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday night. This victory ended the Hornets’ six-game losing streak and marked their second win in the last 19 games.

San Antonio’s rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, the No. 1 overall pick, sat out due to a minutes restriction following an ankle sprain he suffered on December 23. Spurs coach Gregg Popovich clarified that Wembanyama’s absence was under doctor’s orders, not merely for rest.

Brandon Miller, the No. 2 overall pick, contributed significantly to Charlotte’s win with 24 points. Miles Bridges and P.J. Washington also played key roles, scoring 23 and 20 points, respectively. Despite their 9-30 record, Hornets coach Steve Clifford expressed pride in his team’s resilience and competitiveness.

The Spurs, led by reserve Keldon Johnson with 25 points and Tre Jones with 16, have now lost four straight games, dropping to a 7-34 record. Despite briefly leading in the fourth quarter, San Antonio couldn’t sustain the momentum against Charlotte’s determined effort.

Ball’s pivotal driving reverse layup in the closing seconds and crucial free throws by Miller and Terry Rozier sealed the win for Charlotte. Clifford praised the team’s execution in crucial moments, while Miller commended Ball’s decisive play.

Looking ahead, the Spurs will face Washington on Saturday night, while the Hornets will host Philadelphia. For Charlotte, this win provides a much-needed confidence boost as they seek to improve their standing in the season.