The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) today reaffirmed its commitment to being a global leader in sport integrity by extending its partnership with Sportradar (NASDAQ: SRAD), a leading global sports technology company.
Running from 2024 through to 2027, the renewal will take the collaboration between both parties, which first began in 2013, to 14 years.
This latest milestone was marked by an agreement signing ceremony at The Ritz-Carlton in Doha on Thursday afternoon, 11 January, between AFC President, Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa and Sportradar CEO, Carsten Koerl on the eve of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™.
AFC President Shaikh Salman said: “For the past 10 years, Sportradar has been a valued, reliable and trusted partner of the AFC, and together we have stood tall to combat the scourge of match-fixing in Asia.
“Since 2013, our collaboration has necessarily evolved strategically to consistently safeguard the integrity of football in Asia, while the AFC has forged a stronger relationship with Sportradar in the process.
“We are proud of what has been accomplished so far but we cannot be complacent and together, we will continue the fight to keep our beautiful game clean for the benefit and enjoyment of our loyal and passionate fans.”
AFC General Counsel & Director of Legal Affairs Andrew Colin Mercer said: “The renewal of the agreement with Sportradar underlines the AFC’s commitment to tackling integrity challenges in Asian football. We have forged a formidable partnership in intelligence gathering and investigation, which underpins our commitment to eradicating ethical misconduct and upholding the highest standards of good governance.”
Sportradar CEO Carsten Koerl said: “The success of this partnership is a true testament to the power of collaboration and a unified vision to safeguard the integrity of AFC competitions. We acknowledge the role of technology in sports and recognise its potential to address these challenges. Our capabilities will evolve by exploring new technological frontiers, including AI and machine learning, to mitigate issues such as corruption in sport.”
BFI’s REC Open Talent Hunt Programme a big opportunity for boxers to make an impact in the national scene, says BFI Secretary General Kalita
New Delhi, January 11, 2024: With an aim to discover and nurture India’s next boxing heroes, the Boxing Federation of India (BFI) along with REC Limited, leading Maharatna Company under the Ministry of Power, are organising the Western REC Open Talent Hunt Programme at the Army Sports Institute in Pune.
The open tournaments, which aim to provide a much-need platform to boxers from across the country, witnessed 16 boxers from Maharashtra winning the titles in the junior and sub-junior categories. The competition for the elite and youth categories will take place from January 12 to 19.
This championship is part of the four open preliminary tournaments that the boxing federation has planned to organise in all four corners of the country for elite, youth, junior and sub-junior categories for both men and women boxers.
These are open tournaments and anyone can participate and get themselves enrolled to showcase their skills.
“Boxing Federation of India and REC are committed to the growth of Indian boxing and this REC Open Talent Hunt Programme is a significant step to identify and nurture budding boxers from across the country. The programme is open to any boxers who possess the skills and have potential. It is a big opportunity for boxers to make an impact in the national scene. Through this program, BFI and REC also aim to promote the sport in every corner of the country and increase the participation and exposure for the game,” stated Hemanta Kumar Kalita, Secretary General, Boxing Federation of India.
In addition, boxers will also have the chance to win a wild card entry for national camps, presenting them with a unique opportunity to train and compete at the highest level under the guidance of experienced coaches and mentors as well as to represent the country.
The boxers, in their respective categories, can participate in all four open tournaments and the top performers will compete in the combined final. Furthermore, the winners will be invited to participate in the pruning trials for inclusion in the BFI’s national camps, creating a pathway for talents to make a direct cut and get a shot to play for the country.
The Northern Open Talent Hunt was held at SAI NCOE in Rohtak in September last year while Southern Open Talent Hunt and Eastern Open Talent Hunt are scheduled to be staged at the Sree Kanteerava Indoor Stadium in Bangalore (January 28 to February 13) and Sarusajai Sports Complex in Guwahati (February 28 to March 15) respectively.
World-class Asian Cup 2023 preparations lauded by OCAC
With just over 24 hours to go before hosts Qatar and Lebanon take centrestage at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ opener at the Lusail Stadium, the Organising Committee of AFC Asian Cup (OCAC) has praised the exceptional stage provided for Asia’s players and teams to showcase their best ever performance.
Chaired by Mariano V. Araneta, Jr., the members of the OCAC were provided with a comprehensive update on the key milestones and breakthrough achievements leading up to the tournament as well as the readiness of all the main operational components to deliver a true spectacle for all stakeholders.
Chairperson Mariano V. Araneta, Jr. said: “From an operational standpoint, it is clear that Asia is ready to celebrate our grandest ever edition of the AFC Asian Cup™ in history. The AFC President has declared Qatar 2023 as a tournament of ‘firsts’ and this outcome is a tribute to the high level of coordination and integration between the AFC and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ Local Organising Committee (LOC).
“From the launch of the slogan – Hayya Asia – to the introduction of the AFC eAsian Cup, the Semi Automated Offside Technology, Video Assistant Referee systems, enhanced Pre-match Ceremonies, and various Digitisation projects as part of the paperless policy, it is evident that the AFC and LOC are fully committed towards ensuring a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all those involved.
“The LOC’s meticulous attention to detail has been truly remarkable so, on behalf of the OCAC, I want to put on record our gratitude to the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ LOC for their steadfast commitment to deliver a world-class showpiece.
“We have every faith that we will build on the proud legacy of the previous editions and, just as importantly, strengthen the foundations for future hosts to build on the exemplary standards set by the Qatar Football Association, the LOC and the Qatari authorities.”
In addition to the plethora of enhancements introduced at the 18th edition of the AFC Asian Cup™ for the first time, members of the OCAC were also briefed on the new operational initiatives aimed at elevating the quality of organisation, coordination, and delivery of the 51 matches scheduled to take place from tomorrow to the Final on 10 February 2024.
These include the utilisation of digital tools to enhance the overall operational efficiency, a new Team Hotels and Training Sites pairing approach to reduce the distance travelled for participating teams, amongst a series of innovations introduced.
‘The 1000th PKL match is a matter of great pride for the kabaddi world,’ says Jaipur Pink Panthers’ Owner Abhishek Bachchan
JAIPUR, 11th January 2024: The Jaipur Pink Panthers will be looking to continue their excellent form in their home leg, which begins on Friday. The Panthers, who are currently in the fourth spot on the points table, will be up against the Telugu Titans at the SMS Indoor stadium in the first match of the day on 12 January 2024.
Speaking about returning to Jaipur, JPP Owner Abhishek Bachchan said, “We have come back to Jaipur after four years. The players are very excited to play at their home ground and in front of the Jaipur fans. The team management is also very excited to return to Jaipur and the team will certainly perform at its best. I would like to request all the JPP fans to come to the stadium to give a boost to our team.”
The Jaipur leg will also witness the 1000th Pro Kabaddi League match on 15 January 2024. Sharing his thoughts on the momentous occasion, the JPP Owner said, “The 1000th PKL match is a huge accomplishment for the kabaddi world. The match is a huge occasion and a huge chance for celebration. It’s a matter of great pride for the kabaddi players all over the globe.”
When asked about how he was introduced to the sport of kabaddi, Abhishek Bachchan said, “My father taught me kabaddi. There’s a scene in Ganga Ki Saugand where my father plays kabaddi so I asked him to teach me the game after I watched the film. He taught me the game in our garden. I played kabaddi in school when I studied for a year in Delhi.”
Meanwhile, the Jaipur Pink Panthers’ Captain Sunil Kumar expressed that his team is absolutely ready for the home leg, “We’ve been practising well. We are currently devising our strategies according to the Telugu Titans team since we will be up against them in our first match in Jaipur. We will definitely try to win all four of our home games.”
The Captain also spoke about Abhishek Bachchan’s impact on the team, “He motivates everyone in the team. He tells us to give our best and not worry about the result. We’ve won 6 out of 10 games so far. We’ve tied two matches and lost two games. We are looking to get better as a unit in our upcoming games.”
The Jaipur Pink Panthers will take on Telugu Titans at the SMS Indoor Stadium, Jaipur at 8 pm on Friday.
Please find below the schedule for PKL Season 10 matches on Friday
Game 1 – Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Telugu Titans – 8 pm
Game 2 – Puneri Paltan vs Gujarat Giants – 9 pm
Venue: Jaipur
Hong Kong, China to host combined 2024 WSF World Team Championships
The WSF Men’s and Women’s World Team Championships will be held concurrently for the first time in event history between December 9-15 when the Hong Kong Football Club hosts the historic tournament.
The WSF World Team Championships have been held biennially since 1967 (men’s)and 1979 (women’s),contested between teams of three players. North African squash powerhouse Egypt is currently the holder of both titles, with Nour El Sherbini, Nouran Gohar, Hania El Hammamy and Nour El Tayeb winning the women’s title in December 2022, while Ali Farag, Mostafa Asal, Mazen Hesham and Youssef Soliman won the men’s title in New Zealand last month.
The Hong Kong Football Club is one of the largest sports clubs in Asia. The club has a long-standing tradition of hosting major international sporting events, making it an ideal venue for the 2024 WSF World Team Championship. HKFC’s commitment to sporting excellence and its world-class facilities ensure that players and spectators alike will have an exceptional experience.
Founded in 1886, the club is a renowned squash destination, having hosted the inaugural WSF World Doubles Championships in 1997 and the 2014 WSF World Masters Championships, as well as numerous PSA World Tour and junior events.
The club’s facilities include three ASB glass courts, four traditional courts and space for a spectacular all-glass show court.
WSF President Zena Wooldridge said: “It is a historic milestone for our sport to deliver a combined WSF World Team Championships and Hong Kong, China and the Hong Kong Football Club are an excellent choice to host both flagship events together for the first time.
“This is another important step towards true gender parity in our sport and we’re confident this new format will prove popular to players and fans in raising the level of excitement and entertainment. Hong Kong’s vibrant squash community and its expertise in successfully organising major events makes it an ideal choice to host this momentous event.
“Following squash’s recent Olympic recognition, this news is an exciting way to start 2024.”
HKFC Chairman Neil Jensen expressed his excitement, stating: “We are honoured to have been chosen as the host for the 2024 WSF World Team Squash Championship. This is a historic moment for Hong Kong as we welcome this prestigious double world championship for the first time.
“We are proud to showcase our state-of-the-art facilities and renowned hospitality at our club, and we look forward to making the championship a truly memorable event.”
Ultimate Kho Kho ropes in IndianOil as Powered By Sponsor for Season 2
Odisha, January 11, 2024: Ultimate Kho Kho, India’s first-ever professional Kho Kho league, has onboarded IndianOil, the country’s leading diversified, integrated energy major as the Powered By Sponsor for its ongoing Season 2. Aligning with Ultimate Kho Kho’s vision of bringing a modern twist to the traditional sport, this partnership solidifies the league’s commitment to shaping the future of Kho Kho in India.
Having recently secured Series A funding from UK-based BNP Group after successfully raising its valuation, Ultimate Kho Kho became the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment to grow the trajectory of Kho-Kho in India and globally.
Their partnership with IndianOil is set to unfold through an extensive marketing campaign, encompassing digital and on-ground activations. This collaborative effort will showcase player engagements, social media promotions, and fan-centric initiatives, all geared toward amplifying the league’s reach and influence throughout the nation.
Reflecting on the strategic association, Mr. Tenzing Niyogi, CEO and League Commissioner of Ultimate Kho Kho commented, “We are thrilled to welcome IndianOil as our Powered By Sponsor to elevate the stature of Kho Kho in India. Ultimate Kho Kho was conceived with the vision of not only reviving the rich heritage of Kho Kho but to propel it into a new era of dynamism, and entertainment. Our commitment to making Ultimate Kho Kho larger, bolder, and the ultimate source of entertainment for Bharat aligns perfectly with IndianOil’s dedication to leaving a lasting legacy on the Indian sporting landscape. We are confident that this partnership will act as a catalyst for the growth of Kho Kho in India.”
With a presence in almost all the streams of oil, gas, petrochemicals, and alternative energy sources in the country, IndianOil stands as the nation’s highest-ranked Energy-PSU in the Fortune 500 of 2023.
As part of their association with Ultimate Kho Kho, IndianOil will secure the naming rights for the post-match award, recognizing the ‘Attacker of the Match.’ Additionally, IndianOil will also have the naming rights to the league’s exciting powerplay segment, which was dominated by Chennai Quick Guns’ stalwart all-rounder Ramji Kashyap who accumulated a total of 24 skydive points this season.
According to a YouGov Report, the first season of Ultimate Kho Kho reached a massive audience of 164 million across various media touchpoints, emerging among the top 3 non-cricket leagues in India.
Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, the ongoing season 2 of Ultimate Kho Kho will witness high-octane action between the top four teams – Chennai Quick Guns, Odisha Juggernauts, Gujarat Giants and Telugu Yoddhas during its semi-finals which are scheduled to be played on January 11, 2024.
The exciting action from Season 2 is broadcast live on Sony Sports Network’s channels and live-streamed on Sony LIV daily at 7 PM onwards.
A-Leagues Kicks Off Historic Unite Round In Sydney
Thursday 11 January, 2024: The Australian Professional Leagues (APL) has kicked-off its inaugural Unite Round as the A-Leagues become the first code in Australia to celebrate a full men’s and women’s round in a single city.
From Friday January 12 to Sunday January 14, Sydney will play host to all 12 Isuzu UTE A-League Men and Liberty A-League Women matches, hosted at Allianz Stadium, CommBank Stadium and Leichhardt Oval.
The weekend begins with a multicultural celebration on Friday January 12 at CommBank Stadium with more than 350 attendees representing more than 40 nationalities of current and past A-Leagues players and promises an array of football fan activity with fan zones within the stadiums featuring player signings, live music, giveaways, face painting and more.
To further encourage young girls’ involvement in football, a series of girls’ clinics will be conducted at Leichhardt Oval, aiming to introduce fundamental skills to girls aged 6-12. These clinics offer the opportunity to meet their favourite football stars as well as former and current Commbank Matildas, including Sydney FC’s Cortnee Vine, Melbourne Victory’s Alex Chidiac and Central Coast Mariners’ Kyah Simon.
Nick Garcia , A-Leagues Commissioner, said:
“The launch of our inaugural Unite Round marks an exciting moment for the A-Leagues. It is a historic moment for the domestic game as we become the first league in Australia to celebrate a full men’s and women’s round in the one city. With fans from every A-Leagues team from across Australia and New Zealand gathering here in Sydney, coupled with the presence of our competitions’ top players, this promises to be an unforgettable weekend.”
Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said:
“Unite Round is a genuine festival of football, bringing together all 12 A-Leagues men’s and women’s clubs, as well as grassroots competitors from 6 to under-12 age groups, for one bumper round in Sydney.
“Along with football fans, NSW will be the winner, with thousands expected to visit Sydney for the event over the next two years. We can’t wait to welcome Australia’s football family to Sydney.”
Tickets for a 3-Day Pass and general public are accessible through Ticketek, with adult tickets beginning at $25.
This A-Leagues event is supported by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.
Unite Round Fixtures: Isuzu UTE A-League Men
| Date | Team 1 | Team 2 | Venue | Kick off (AEDT) |
| Fri 12 Jan | Macarthur FC | Western United FC | CommBank Stadium | 5:30pm |
| Fri 12 Jan | Melbourne City FC | Western Sydney Wanderers | CommBank Stadium | 8:15pm |
| Sat 13 Jan | Central Coast Mariners | Melbourne Victory | Allianz Stadium | 5:15pm |
| Sat 13 Jan | Adelaide United | Sydney FC | Allianz Stadium | 8:00pm |
| Sun 14 Jan | Brisbane Roar FC | Newcastle Jets | Allianz Stadium | 7:45pm |
| Sun 14 Jan | Perth Glory | Wellington Phoenix | CommBank Stadium | 7:45pm |
Unite Round Fixtures: Liberty A-League Women
| Date | Team 1 | Team 2 | Venue | Kick off (AEDT) |
| Fri 12 Jan | Melbourne Victory | Perth Glory | Leichhardt Oval | 5:00pm |
| Fri 12 Jan | Wellington Phoenix | Central Coast Mariners | Leichhardt Oval | 7:45pm |
| Sat 13 Jan | Canberra United | Adelaide United | Leichhardt Oval | 5:00pm |
| Sat 13 Jan | Brisbane Roar FC | Newcastle Jets | Leichhardt Oval | 7:45pm |
| Sun 14 Jan | Western Sydney Wanderers | Melbourne City FC | CommBank Stadium | 5:00pm |
| Sun 14 Jan | Western United FC | Sydney FC | Allianz Stadium | 5:00pm |
Yonex continues as Official Stringer of the AO
Global tennis brand Yonex has extended its’ partnership as the Official Stringer for the Australian Open and will continue to provide this service at all summer of tennis events, continuing a vital partnership.
Yonex will continue to provide a high quality stringing service for the players at the AO and all Summer of Tennis events in 2024.
This year there will be 20 stringers across 14 different countries at the Australian Open stringing room underneath Rod Laver Arena, to make sure the huge demand is met.
At last year’s Australian Open 6938 racquets were restrung by the Yonex Stringing Team, using a remarkable 83,300m of string across the tournament.
Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley said it was great to have Yonex back on board as the tournament’s Official Stringer.
“It’s fantastic to have Yonex back on board as the Official Stringer of the Australian Open. The stringer is such an important job at a Grand Slam tournament and Yonex and their team of dedicated stringers do a brilliant job at it,” he said.
Yonex is equally excited to be back at AO 2024 and for the extension of the partnership.
Yonex will service the qualifying, main draw singles, doubles, mixed doubles, wheelchair and junior events at AO 2024.
This is Yonex’s ninth consecutive involvement in the Australian Open. The Yonex Stringing Team has a proud history of providing stringing service at major sport events, including at the Olympics and Paralympics in the past.
Stars Shine in 7-2 Rout Over Wild, Spoiling Wallstedt’s NHL Debut
DALLAS — The Dallas Stars delivered a dominant performance, defeating the Minnesota Wild 7-2 at the American Airlines Center on Wednesday. The victory was particularly significant as it spoiled the NHL debut of Wild goaltender Jesper Wallstedt.
Nils Lundkvist emerged as a key player for Dallas, scoring a goal and an assist. His contribution was vital, as it marked his first goal of the season in his 30th game. Esa Lindell and Mason Marchment also played crucial roles, with Lindell notching three assists and Marchment adding two.
The Stars’ win completed a home-and-home set sweep against the Wild, with a combined score of 11-2, including a 4-0 victory at Minnesota on Monday. Goalie Scott Wedgewood was solid between the pipes for Dallas, making 21 saves.
For the Wild, the night was challenging. Despite Matt Boldy’s efforts with a goal and an assist, Minnesota struggled to find its rhythm. The 21-year-old Wallstedt, making his first NHL appearance, faced a tough test and ended the night with 27 saves.
Dallas took control early, with Joe Pavelski opening the scoring in the first period. The Stars continued to dominate, particularly in the second period, outshooting the Wild 16-3. Roope Hintz, Matt Duchene, and Jason Robertson were among those who contributed to the scoreboard for Dallas.
Minnesota’s attempts to rally were evident, with Boldy cutting the deficit to 3-1 early in the third period. However, Dallas quickly regained control, with Lundkvist and others extending the lead.
Wild forward Mats Zuccarello acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, noting that they didn’t make Dallas work hard for their goals. Defenseman Jake Middleton also highlighted the team’s failure to execute their gameplan effectively.
The Stars’ victory was a showcase of their offensive prowess, becoming the first team this season to have at least four players with 15 goals. Ryan Suter also had a noteworthy night, contributing an assist and finishing plus-4 in ice time.
This win adds to Dallas’ impressive record against Minnesota, extending their point streak to 10 games dating back to December 2021.
Looking ahead, both teams will aim to build on this game’s lessons, with the Wild especially keen on bouncing back from this tough defeat.
Flyers Triumph in Shootout Over Canadiens, 3-2
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Flyers clinched a 3-2 shootout win against the Montreal Canadiens at Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday, with newly acquired defenseman Jamie Drysdale making an impactful debut.
Drysdale, who joined the Flyers in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks, set up Morgan Frost’s second-period power-play goal and recorded two shots on goal in his first game. His contribution was a bright spot for Philadelphia, which has struggled with a disappointing season so far. The Flyers improved their record to 21-14-6, finding a much-needed victory at home.
Sean Couturier scored the only goal in the shootout, providing the decisive edge for Philadelphia. Owen Tippett also scored for the Flyers, while Samuel Ersson made 17 saves and stopped all three shots in the shootout, playing a crucial role in the win.
Montreal, on the other hand, faced challenges despite an early lead. Sean Monahan and David Savard scored for the Canadiens, and Cayden Primeau made 37 saves. However, the team’s effort wasn’t enough to secure a win. The Canadiens’ Josh Anderson reflected on the need for more consistent play throughout the game.
Philadelphia managed to tie the game at 2-2 in the second period, thanks to Frost’s power-play goal from Drysdale’s pass. This marked the third straight game the Flyers scored a power-play goal, showing signs of improvement in an area where they have struggled this season.
The Canadiens initially led the game with Monahan and Savard’s goals in the first period. However, the Flyers’ resilience paid off as they fought back, with Tippett narrowing the gap to 2-1.
Flyers coach John Tortorella praised the team’s speed and direct approach, which he felt were crucial in overcoming the hard-playing Canadiens.
With this win, the Flyers end their home stand on a high note before heading out for a three-game road trip.
In notable stats, Justin Barron of the Canadiens earned his first point in nine games with an assist, and Tippett scored in two consecutive games after a seven-game drought.
The Flyers’ next challenge will be on the road, as they look to build on this victory and climb higher in the standings.
Warriors Stumble Again, Suffer 141-105 Loss to Pelicans
SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors faced another challenging night, succumbing to a 141-105 defeat against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday. This loss adds to the Warriors’ recent struggles, with coach Steve Kerr acknowledging the team’s fragile confidence and lack of fighting spirit.
The Pelicans, led by Jonas Valanciunas with 21 points and nine rebounds, quickly established a significant lead, contributing to one of the worst losses during Kerr’s tenure with the Warriors. Zion Williamson also made a notable impact with 19 points, seven assists, and five rebounds, despite starting the day questionable due to injury.
Stephen Curry, usually a consistent performer for Golden State, could only manage 15 points and six assists. This performance followed a previous game where he shot just 2 for 14. Klay Thompson echoed the team’s deflated mood, emphasizing the disappointment of consecutive blowout losses at home.
Golden State’s challenges were evident from the start, as they allowed a season-high 46 points in the first quarter and trailed by 25 points midway through the second. Despite attempts to rally, the Pelicans consistently countered every threat.
The Warriors’ struggles were palpable, with fans expressing their frustration by booing and leaving the arena early. Center Kevon Looney acknowledged the team’s poor performance, stating that they deserved the negative reaction.
With Draymond Green’s return from a 12-game league suspension eagerly anticipated, the Warriors hope for a much-needed boost. Kerr expressed hope for Green’s participation in the upcoming road trip, aiming to rally the troops and regain momentum.
Moses Moody came off the bench to score 21 points for Golden State, but his night was cut short due to a calf strain. The team’s veteran guard, Chris Paul, is also sidelined following surgery for a finger fracture, adding to the Warriors’ challenges.
Facing a period of introspection and recovery, Curry stressed the need to acknowledge their current situation and maintain belief in their ability to bounce back in the next game.
Looking ahead, the Pelicans will face Denver on Friday night, while the Warriors embark on a four-game trip, starting with Chicago.
Bulls Edge Rockets in Overtime 124-119, White Shines with 30 Points
CHICAGO — The Chicago Bulls secured a narrow 124-119 victory over the Houston Rockets in an intense overtime battle on Wednesday night. Coby White led the Bulls with an impressive 30-point performance, while Zach LaVine’s crucial 3-pointer with 1:46 left in overtime was pivotal in sealing the win.
LaVine, back from injury with no minute restrictions, contributed significantly across the board, finishing with 25 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists, and three steals. This marked the Bulls’ third consecutive win, with DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Vucevic also playing key roles, scoring 19 and 18 points respectively.
The Rockets, despite a strong effort, fell short. Alperen Sengun, who remained scoreless in the first half, emerged with a notable 25-point contribution. Fred VanVleet added 20 points and 10 assists, while Jabari Smith Jr. recorded 18 points and 15 rebounds.
Houston’s comeback from a 16-point deficit in the fourth quarter highlighted their resilience but wasn’t enough to clinch the win. The game saw dramatic shifts, with the Rockets briefly leading in overtime before LaVine’s six straight points shifted the momentum back in Chicago’s favor.
The Bulls’ sharpshooting was a key factor in their victory. They shot 8 for 11 from the 3-point line in the second quarter, with White scoring 11 points to help the team lead at halftime. Chicago finished 19 for 47 from beyond the arc, countering the Rockets’ defensive strength against 3-point shots this season.
Looking ahead, the Rockets continue their six-game road trip in Detroit on Friday, while the Bulls prepare to host the Warriors the same night.
Hawks Clinch Overtime Victory Against 76ers, 139-132
ATLANTA — In a dramatic overtime showdown, the Atlanta Hawks secured a 139-132 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night. The win was particularly significant for the Hawks, improving their home record to 6-9 and marking a positive turn in their season.
Jalen Johnson played a crucial role in the Hawks’ victory, hitting two key free throws in overtime, followed by a decisive 3-pointer with just 39 seconds left. Johnson’s performance was remarkable, totaling 25 points, 16 rebounds, and seven assists.
For the 76ers, Tyrese Maxey shined with 35 points, nine assists, eight rebounds, and four steals. However, his night ended prematurely after fouling out with 1:44 left in overtime. The 76ers, playing without Joel Embiid, felt his absence keenly as they suffered their third consecutive loss.
Philadelphia’s Tobias Harris stepped up with 32 points, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win. The Hawks, on the other hand, saw significant contributions from Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, scoring 28 and 25 points respectively.
Both teams had to adapt due to injuries. The 76ers’ Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, missed the game with knee swelling, and Paul Reed started in his place. The Hawks were without their starting center, Clint Capela, due to right Achilles tendon soreness, with Onyeka Okongwu stepping up in his absence.
Okongwu made the most of the opportunity, scoring 19 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. De’Andre Hunter of the Hawks was also sidelined due to knee inflammation.
The 76ers are hopeful for Embiid’s return in their next game against Sacramento, while the Hawks will continue their homestand against the Indiana Pacers. Both games are scheduled for Friday night.
Thunder Overcome Heat 128-120, Showcase Impressive Form
MIAMI — The Oklahoma City Thunder, nearing the halfway point of the season, demonstrated their prowess by defeating the Miami Heat 128-120 on Wednesday night. With this victory, they now boast a 25-11 record, marking their best 36-game start since the 2015-16 season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 28 points, while Chet Holmgren added 23 points, playing pivotal roles in the team’s success. The Thunder’s strategy included two significant runs in the second half, a 13-0 spurt at the start of the third quarter, followed by a 17-0 run bridging the third and fourth quarters.
Jalen Williams contributed significantly with 19 points, 12 assists, and nine rebounds. Lu Dort and Isaiah Joe also made notable contributions with 14 and 11 points, respectively. The Thunder’s defensive strategy was particularly effective in the critical phases of the game, as noted by Williams, who emphasized its importance in turning the tide.
For the Heat, Bam Adebayo led with 25 points and 11 rebounds, accompanied by Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Haywood Highsmith, who scored 21 and a career-high 19 points, respectively. Despite a late 10-0 run that brought Miami within six points, the Heat couldn’t sustain the momentum.
The Heat, plagued by injuries, used their 20th different starting lineup this season, missing key players like Jimmy Butler, Caleb Martin, and Kyle Lowry.
The Thunder’s impressive shooting was a highlight, finishing the game with a 59% success rate despite cooling off in the second half. This performance stands out in NBA history, as it’s rare for a team to shoot over 69.2% in the first half and still trail at the break.
Looking ahead, the Thunder are set to host Portland on Thursday night, while the Heat will face Orlando on Friday night.
Celtics Triumph Over Timberwolves 127-120 in Overtime
BOSTON — In a thrilling overtime battle, the Boston Celtics outlasted the Minnesota Timberwolves 127-120. The game marked a historic moment for Boston, improving their home record to an unprecedented 18-0, the best start at home in the franchise’s history.
Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with a phenomenal 45-point performance, including pivotal contributions in the fourth quarter and overtime. Jaylen Brown complemented Tatum’s effort with 35 points and 11 rebounds. Jrue Holiday’s critical corner three-pointer was a key moment, helping Boston secure the lead late in regulation.
The Timberwolves, led by Anthony Edwards with 29 points and Karl-Anthony Towns with 25 points and 13 rebounds, showed resilience. The team had faced travel delays due to weather issues but still managed a strong performance against the league-leading Celtics.
Minnesota, currently holding the top record in the Western Conference, faced a formidable Boston team that remembered their last overtime loss to the Timberwolves in November. This rematch was an opportunity for both teams to showcase their top-tier talent.
The Celtics’ historical home winning streak continues, a testament to their solid performance this season and the energizing support from their home crowd. This latest win adds to their remarkable record, surpassing the 1957-58 team’s 17 consecutive home victories.
The Timberwolves, while unable to clinch a win in Boston since 2005, remain a strong contender in the Western Conference.
Looking ahead, the Timberwolves will host the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night, while the Celtics are set to face the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night.
Kings Dominate Hornets 123-98, Clinch Consecutive Victory
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In a commanding performance, the Sacramento Kings secured a 123-98 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday. Keegan Murray led the charge with 25 points, closely followed by Domantas Sabonis who contributed 24 points and 10 rebounds, marking the Kings’ second straight win.
Sacramento’s offense was further bolstered by former Hornet Malik Monk, who added 20 points, and De’Aaron Fox with 19 points. Sabonis, apart from his double-double, also dished out seven assists, aiding the Kings to improve their record to 23-14. This win served as a sweet revenge for Sacramento, overturning a 111-104 defeat against Charlotte last week.
“We knew we owed them one,” Sacramento forward Trey Lyles stated, emphasizing the team’s determination to rectify their previous loss. Lyles himself chipped in with eight points and five rebounds.
Sacramento showcased their strength in teamwork, with effective ball-sharing leading to efficient scoring. “We’re a better team when we share the ball,” Lyles added, highlighting the synergy between key players like Sabonis, Fox, Murray, and Monk.
The Hornets, struggling with a 8-27 record, witnessed Miles Bridges leading their effort with 24 points. Terry Rozier contributed 22 points, with Brandon Miller and Nick Smith, Jr. scoring 15 and 11 points, respectively. Injuries and illnesses have plagued Charlotte’s season, resulting in the loss of 157 man-games, affecting starters like LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward.
The Kings turned the game in their favor with a stunning 30-10 run in the second quarter, overcoming a 25-20 deficit to establish a 50-35 lead. This surge included a remarkable sequence of seven consecutive 3-pointers, three of which came from Fox.
Sacramento’s defensive efforts were also notable, particularly in the third quarter, where they went on an 11-point run, extending their lead to 84-62. Coach Mike Brown praised his team’s defensive performance and the significant impact of bench players like Monk and Lyles.
Looking ahead, the Kings will face Philadelphia on Friday, while the Hornets are set to play against San Antonio on the same night.
Wembanyama’s Triple-Double Powers Spurs Past Pistons
Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ 7-foot-3 rookie sensation, delivered a memorable performance, achieving his first NBA triple-double in a dominant 130-108 victory over the Detroit Pistons. Wembanyama, who was selected first overall in the previous NBA Draft, showcased his versatility by amassing 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists in just 21 minutes of play. His achievement marked the second-fastest triple-double in NBA history, only eclipsed by Russell Westbrook’s 20-minute feat in 2014.
The 20-year-old Frenchman’s display of skill and efficiency on the court was a clear highlight, as he became the youngest player in the league to record a triple-double without committing a turnover since the statistic was first recorded in the 1977-78 season. Wembanyama’s performance surpassed Andre Iguodala’s similar achievement in 2005 with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Wembanyama’s impact was not limited to his scoring, as he demonstrated his passing prowess, a skill lauded by Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. Despite missing all four of his attempts from beyond the arc, Wembanyama’s overall contribution significantly bolstered the Spurs’ performance.
The victory was particularly poignant for San Antonio, as they entered the game with the NBA’s second-worst record, just ahead of the Pistons. The win snapped a five-game losing streak for the Spurs and provided a glimpse of Wembanyama’s potential as a transformative player in the league.
For the Pistons, Jalen Duren put up a strong fight with 21 points and 12 rebounds, but it was not enough to overcome the Spurs’ dominance. Detroit, which had hoped to draft Wembanyama, now faced the stark reality of what could have been, as they continue to struggle with the league’s worst record. The Pistons were also hampered by the absence of point guard Cade Cunningham, who is sidelined with a knee strain.
The Spurs look forward to building on this momentum as they host the Charlotte Hornets next, while the Pistons aim to regroup against the Houston Rockets.
Turner Leads Pacers to Victory Over Wizards in Haliburton’s Absence
The Indiana Pacers, facing the challenge of playing without star guard Tyrese Haliburton, rose to the occasion and secured a 112-104 win against the Washington Wizards. Haliburton, sidelined due to a strained left hamstring, left a notable void in the Pacers’ lineup, but his teammates stepped up admirably to fill the gap.
Myles Turner, showcasing his skills and leadership, delivered an impressive performance with 18 points and 13 rebounds. His efforts were crucial in guiding the Pacers to their eighth win in the last nine games. Bruce Brown and Bennedict Mathurin also played key roles, contributing 16 points each, while Obi Toppin added 15 points to the team’s tally.
The Wizards, despite a valiant effort led by Jordan Poole with 28 points, couldn’t match the Pacers’ intensity. Corey Kispert and Deni Avdija contributed significantly, scoring 15 points each, and Kyle Kuzma chipped in with a double-double, scoring 11 points and securing 10 rebounds.
The game’s turning point came in the third quarter when Indiana, trailing by one point at halftime, launched a decisive 10-0 run to seize control. This momentum shift saw the Pacers leading 89-80 at the end of the third quarter, a lead they maintained until the final buzzer.
Pacers guard T.J. McConnell acknowledged the difficulty of playing without Haliburton, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to maintain their competitive edge. Coach Rick Carlisle praised his team’s adaptability in the absence of their key player, particularly highlighting the significant contributions in the third quarter.
Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. lamented his team’s lackluster start in the third quarter, attributing it as a primary factor in their defeat. The Wizards now face the challenge of reversing their six-game losing streak.
With this victory, the Pacers demonstrated their resilience and depth, proving they can win even without their top scorer and assist leader. The team looks to continue its impressive run as they embark on a six-game road trip, starting with a game against the Atlanta Hawks. Meanwhile, the Wizards aim to regroup and find their winning formula as they also prepare to face the Hawks in their next matchup.
Chan Upsets Abbas to Reach SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open Quarter-Finals
Hong Kong’s Chan Sin Yuk upset No.7 seed Nada Abbas to reach her first ever PSA World Tour Gold event quarter-final on day two of the SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open.
The 21-year-old is ranked at No.51 in the world, 34 places below her Egyptian opponent, but defied those rankings to emerge victorious in five games.
After losing a lengthy tie break 16-14 in the first, Chan controlled much of the next two games to take a 2-1 lead, but a change in ball handed the advantage back to Abbas to start the fourth, with the Egyptian racing into a 6-1 lead.
Chan responded in style, though, levelling at 6-6 before giving herself a match ball at 10-9 up.
She was unable to convert and Abbas would send the match into a decider moments later, but undeterred, Chan continued to be aggressive at the front of the court – a tactic that served her well throughout – and ran away with game five to book her spot in the last eight.
“I’m really happy to be through,” she said after victory.
“This was my first time playing against Nada but I’ve always known that she’s a really good player, so before the game I reminded myself many times that I had to take every point seriously, and give no easy points away.
“She did that better than me in the first game so she took the first, and I had a match ball in the fourth and was really gutted not to have converted it, but I’m really happy with how I did in the fifth game.
“I’ve always attacked a lot to the front, but today I was not thinking about winning with the drop shots, but just to play to the space, and that worked well.”
Chan was joined in the quarter-final draw by both the men’s and women’s top seeds, with Nour ElSherbini and Diego Elias recording 3-0 wins in the evening session.
Women’s World No.1 ElSherbini cruised to a 3-0 victory over fellow Egyptian Salma Eltayeb in just 20 minutes, while Elias – who trains at the Kinetic Indoor Racquet Club where this event is being held – saw off the challenge of England’s Nick Wall.
Speaking after her win, ElSherbini said: “I’m happy with the way I played, happy with the first win of the year and looking forward to this week.
“It was actually the first time I’ve ever played Salma. She’s a young, up-and-coming player so you don’t quite know what her game is or how she’s playing, but I know she’s very dangerous and has very good hands, so I had to be ready from the first point.”
Joel Makin and Olivia Weaver were among the other winners on day two, beating Leandro Romiglio and Nicole Bunyan respectively.
Round two of the SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open concludes from 12:00 (GMT-5) tomorrow, January 11. Watch the action live on SQUASHTV.
Results: SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open 2024 – Men’s RD2 (top half)
[6] Joel Makin (WAL) bt Leandro Romiglio (ARG) 3-0: 14-12, 11-7, 11-7 (45m)
[4] Mazen Hesham (EGY) bt Abdulla AL-Tamimi (QAT) 3-1: 10-12, 11-3, 11-2, 11-2 (41m)
[1] Diego Elias (PER) bt Nick Wall (ENG) 3-0: 11-5, 11-2, 11-8 (39m)
[5] Tarek Momen (EGY) bt Raphael Kandra (GER) 3-1: 5-11, 11-8, 11-9, 11-4 (45m)
Results: SmartCentres Kinetic Florida Open 2024 – Women’s RD2 (top half)
Chan Sin Yuk (HKG) bt [7] Nada Abbas (EGY)3-2: 14-16, 11-9, 11-4, 10-12, 11-4 (57m)
[4] Olivia Weaver (USA) bt Nicole Bunyan (CAN) 3-0: 11-2, 11-5, 11-4 (28m)
[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) bt Salma Eltayeb (EGY) 3-0: 11-3, 11-5, 11-4 (20m)
[5] Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS) bt Lucy Beecroft (ENG) 3-1: 11-6, 11-7, 11-13, 11-8 (42m)
Draw: Men’s RD2 (bottom half) – to be played January 11th
Gregoire Marche (FRA) v [8] Mohamed ElSherbini (EGY)
[3] Mohamed Elshorbagy (ENG) v Nathan Lake (ENG)
Leonel Cardenas (MEX) v [2] Mostafa Asal (EGY)
[7] Miguel Rodriguez (COL) v Sebastien Bonmalais (FRA)
Draw: Women’s RD2 (bottom half) – to be played January 11th
[8] Farida Mohamed (EGY) v Tomato Ho (HKG)
Zeina Mickawy (EGY) v [2] Nouran Gohar (EGY)
[3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY) v Nour Aboulmakarim (EGY)
Kenzy Ayman (EGY) v [6] Amina Orfi (EGY)
HSBC SVNS Perth pool draw allows sevens teams to dream
The pool draws for the third round of HSBC SVNS 2024 to be played in Perth, Western Australia on 26-28 January took place at the HBF Park venue on Thursday 11 January and produced some exciting match-ups to whet fans appetites ahead of the hotly anticipated festival event.
Hosts Australia lead the women’s standings and are aiming for a hat-trick of tournament victories following their impressive back-to-back successes at the opening two rounds in Dubai and Cape Town. They will face Canada, Great Britain and South Africa in pool A in Perth.
Rivals and reigning Olympic champions New Zealand will meet USA, Ireland and Japan in pool C, while France, Fiji, Brazil and Spain will compete in pool B of the women’s competition.
The men’s SVNS title race is wide open with Argentina the current standings leaders after claiming gold in Cape Town and silver in Dubai, however South Africa, Fiji, New Zealand, Ireland and hosts Australia all sit within six points of each other.
Argentina will meet Dubai champions South Africa in pool A alongside Canada and Spain. Australia are drawn in a competitive looking pool B with Ireland, Great Britain and USA. Meanwhile Olympic champions Fiji will play reigning Series title holders New Zealand alongside France and Samoa in a very strong looking pool C.
The new-look SVNS competition format means there will be more excitement and jeopardy on the field than ever before and fans can look forward to a feast of entertainment on and off the pitch.
Australian Women’s Head Coach, Tim Walsh commented on the draw: “We haven’t played those teams in a while so we’re excited. We know how strong they are, particularly Canada, who are quickly improving and definitely a team to watch out for.
“After a nice break, we’re fresh physically and mentally and ready to go after a good week and a half of training. Other than Demi being injured we’re at a good fitness level, and we’ve got a really strong squad to pick a team from.”
Australian Men’s Head Coach, John Manenti said: “The men’s competition is tough, there are no soft games. Ireland have been consistently finishing in the top four, Great Britian gets better the more they play together, and the USA have a host of superstars, including Perry Baker returning for Perth. We can’t wait to get to the West and continue to build towards the Olympics”.
Tourism Western Australia Managing Director Carolyn Turnbull said: “The results of today’s draw will drive further excitement for the incredible HSBC SVNS event, which we cannot wait to welcome to Perth this month and again in 2025.
“Western Australia is proud to be the only Australian host city for this spectacular global rugby tournament in 2024 and 2025, and we look forward to welcoming interstate and international visitors to Perth to attend the event and explore the incredible hospitality and tourism experiences all regions of our dreamlike state have to offer.
“The HSBC SVNS will be broadcast around the world in many of Western Australia’s key visitor markets, like New Zealand, China, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States, and hosting the tournament will elevate our state on a truly global stage, as the fastest-growing events destination in South East Asia.”
Along with epic rugby sevens action featuring the best 12 men’s and women’s teams in the world, fantastic food offerings and interactive activities, HSBC SVNS have thrown in a blockbuster line up of entertainment with over 20 artists bringing the vibes for a weekend to remember in Perth.
Peking Duk, Hot Dub Time Machine, and Coterie are some of the big names set to get the party pumping on 26, 27 and 28 January 2024.
Perth is hosting the HSBC SVNS for the very first time and players and fans can look forward to three sun-soaked days of rugby sevens and buzz-filled nights on 26-28 January, 2024 at HBF Park.
To party with some of Australia’s best entertainers, indulge in some epic food offerings and watch the worlds greatest rugby sevens players, including the world leading Aussie 7s, fans can get their tickets from only $35 at SVNS.com
Results from the PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2024 on January 10, 2024
The results from the PETRONAS Malaysia Open 2024 on January 10, 2024, at the Axiata Arena are as follows:
Court 1
- WS: TAI Tzu Ying [4] bt Beiwen ZHANG – 23-21, 21-19 (0:40)
- XD: Yuta WATANABE [2] / Arisa HIGASHINO bt TANG Chun Man / TSE Ying Suet – 21-13, 21-14 (0:39)
- WD: BAEK Ha Na [8] / LEE So Hee bt Anna Ching Yik CHEONG / TEOH Mei Xing – 21-14, 21-13 (0:43)
- WS: CHEN Yu Fei [2] bt Aya OHORI – 21-18, 21-12 (0:48)
- MD: LEE Jhe-Huei [7] / YANG Po-Hsuan bt CHEN Bo Yang / LIU Yi – Score and time not available
- MS: Koki WATANABE bt NG Tze Yong – 12-8, Retired (0:13)
- MD: GOH Sze Fei / Nur IZZUDDIN bt Supak JOMKOH / Kittinupong KEDREN – 21-17, 22-20 (0:39)
- MS: Anders ANTONSEN bt PRANNOY H. S. [8] – 21-14, 21-11 (0:43)
- XD: CHEN Tang Jie [8] / TOH Ee Wei bt Thom GICQUEL / Delphine DELRUE – 21-17, 21-18 (0:47)
- MD: Aaron CHIA [3] / SOH Wooi Yik bt Rasmus KJÆR / Frederik SØGAARD – 20-22, 21-13, 21-13 (1:02)
- WS: GOH Jin Wei bt SUNG Shuo Yun – 21-18, 21-11 (0:40)
- WD: Nami MATSUYAMA / Chiharu SHIDA bt Paula Lynn CAO HOK / Lauren LAM – 21-11, 21-9 (0:38)
- MS: LI Shi Feng [3] bt Chia Hao LEE – 23-21, 15-21, 21-18 (1:19)
- XD: Hiroki MIDORIKAWA / Natsu SAITO bt Vinson CHIU / Jennie GAI – 21-13, 21-13 (0:35)
Court 2
- WD: YEUNG Nga Ting / YEUNG Pui Lam bt Linda EFLER / Isabel LOHAU – 21-17, 21-16 (0:46)
- XD: Dejan FERDINANSYAH / Gloria Emanuelle WIDJAJA bt Marcus ELLIS / Lauren SMITH – 21-11, 19-21, 21-19 (1:10)
- MS: Kodai NARAOKA [2] bt Christo POPOV – 21-15, 21-7 (0:49)
- WS: HE Bing Jiao [6] bt Mia BLICHFELDT – 21-15, 21-15 (0:42)
- MS: Kunlavut VITIDSARN [5] bt Kenta NISHIMOTO – 21-14, 21-23, 21-15 (1:42)
- MD: Satwiksairaj RANKIREDDY / Chirag SHETTY bt Muhammad Shohibul FIKRI / Bagas MAULANA – 21-18, 21-19 (0:44)
- MD: Mohammad AHSAN / Hendra SETIAWAN bt Akira KOGA / Taichi SAITO – 21-18, 21-15 (0:38)
- WS: Gregoria Mariska TUNJUNG [7] bt Natsuki NIDAIRA – 20-22, 21-18, 21-14 (1:14)
- XD: CHAN Peng Soon / CHEAH Yee See bt CHANG Ko-Chi / LEE Chih Chen – 11-21, 26-24, 21-8 (1:03)
- WD: ZHANG Shu Xian / ZHENG Yu bt GO Pei Kee / LOW Yeen Yuan – 21-13, 21-13 (0:46)
- WD: LI Wen Mei / LIU Xuan Xuan bt Vivian HOO / LIM Chiew Sien – 21-15, 21-16 (0:43)
- MS: WENG Hong Yang bt Lakshya SEN – 21-15, 21-16 (0:49)
Court 3
- XD: SEO Seung Jae [3] / CHAE Yu Jung bt Ty Alexander LINDEMAN / Josephine WU – 21-12, 21-11 (0:28)
- WS: Busanan ONGBAMRUNGPHAN bt GAO Fang Jie – 17-21, 22-20, 21-10 (1:15)
- XD: Mathias THYRRI / Amalie MAGELUND bt Rinov RIVALDY / Pitha Haningtyas MENTARI – 21-17, 21-14 (0:34)
- MS: Brian YANG bt WANG Tzu Wei – 11-21, 21-17, 21-16 (1:03)
- WS: Ratchanok INTANON bt THET HTAR THUZAR – 21-19, 21-10 (0:36)
- WS: WANG Zhi Yi bt Pornpicha CHOEIKEEWONG – 21-14, 21-14 (0:36)
- MS: LIN Chun-Yi bt Kantaphon WANGCHAROEN – 21-17, 21-13 (0:38)
- MD: KANG Min Hyuk / SEO Seung Jae bt Ben LANE / Sean VENDY – 21-14, 21-14 (0:38)
- XD: JIANG Zhen Bang [5] / WEI Ya Xin bt CHENG Xing / ZHANG Chi – 21-18, 21-16 (0:37)
- MD: Lucas CORVEE / Ronan LABAR bt KIM Won Ho / NA Sung Seung – 21-16, 9-21, 21-19 (0:58)
- MD: HE Ji Ting / REN Xiang Yu bt LIU Yu Chen [8] / OU Xuan Yi – 21-19, 21-15 (0:37)
- WD: Rena MIYAURA / Ayako SAKURAMOTO bt Rui HIROKAMI / Yuna KATO – 21-17, 21-9 (0:42)
- WD: Annie XU / Kerry XU bt Margot LAMBERT [3] / Anne TRAN – 19-21, 21-16, 21-16 (1:15)
- WD: Jongkolphan KITITHARAKUL / Rawinda PRAJONGJAI bt Setyana MAPASA / Angela YU – 21-12, 21-17 (0:34)
These results reflect an exciting day of matches with several closely fought contests and dominant performances by top-seeded players.
Yankees announce 2024 coaching staff
The New York Yankees today announced their coaching staff for the 2024 season. Joining Yankees Manager Aaron Boone will be Bench Coach Brad Ausmus, Pitching Coach Matt Blake, Bullpen Coach Mike Harkey, Assistant Pitching Coach Desi Druschel, Hitting Coach James Rowson, Assistant Hitting Coaches Casey Dykes and Pat Roessler, Third Base and Outfield Coach Luis Rojas, First Base and Infield Coach Travis Chapman, and Major League Field Coordinator and Director of Catching Tanner Swanson.
Ausmus, 54, begins his 34th season in professional baseball, his 11th season as a Manager, Coach or front office executive, and his first as the Yankees’ Bench Coach. He most recently served as the Oakland Athletics’ Bench Coach during the 2022 season. Prior to that, Ausmus managed the Los Angeles Angels in 2019 (72-90) and was a Special Assistant to Angels General Manager Billy Eppler during the 2018 season. From 2014-17, he managed the Detroit Tigers, guiding the club to a 314-332 (.486) record, which was highlighted by a 90-72 record and a postseason berth in his first season at the helm.
Immediately following his playing career, Ausmus spent three seasons (2011-13) with the San Diego Padres as a Special Assistant in Baseball Operations. He also managed Team Israel in the 2013 World Baseball Classic and was their Bench Coach in the 2023 edition of the tournament.
Widely regarded as a premier defensive catcher, Ausmus batted .251 (1,579-for-6,279) with 718R, 270 doubles, 34 triples, 80HR, 607RBI, 634BB, 102SB and a .325 on-base percentage over 18 Major League seasons with San Diego (1993-96), Detroit (1996, 1999-2000), Houston (1997-98, 2001-08) and Los Angeles-NL (2009-10). Ausmus won three Gold Glove Awards (2001-02, ’06) and ranks fourth in Major League history in putouts by a catcher (12,839) and eighth in games played as a catcher (1,938).
Born in New Haven, Conn., Ausmus graduated from Cheshire High School and was selected by the Yankees in the 48th round of the 1987 First-Year Player Draft. He opted to attend Dartmouth College but did not play baseball there, instead playing in the Yankees’ minor league system while working towards his degree, which he received in 1991. He played five seasons in the Yankees’ minor league system (1988-92), topping out at Triple-A Columbus in his final season with the organization before being selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 1992 Expansion Draft.
Blake, 38, returns for his fifth season as the Yankees’ Pitching Coach. In 2023, Yankees pitchers ranked second in the American League and third in the Majors in opponents’ batting average (.234). Yankees pitchers also ranked sixth in the Majors in opponents’ slugging percentage (.396, fourth in AL), ninth in opponents’ on-base percentage (.308, sixth in AL) and opponents’ OPS (.703, fifth in AL), and 10th in ERA (3.97).
Since joining the Major League coaching staff in 2020, Yankees pitchers rank third in the Majors in strikeouts (4,995, second in AL), WHIP (1.19, second in AL) and opponents’ on-base percentage (.298, second in AL), fourth in opponents’ batting average (.229, second in AL) and K/BB (3.10, second in AL), fifth in ERA (3.74, third in AL) and K/9.0IP (9.31, second in AL), and sixth in BB/9.0IP (3.01, fourth in AL).
Prior to joining the Yankees, Blake spent four seasons with Cleveland (2016-19). Blake began his time with Cleveland as the Lower Level Pitching Coordinator in 2016. From 2017-19, he served as the organization’s Assistant Director of Player Development before being promoted to Director of Pitching Development.
Blake also served seven years as the Pitching Coordinator for Cressey Sports Performance while also coaching the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox of the Cape Cod League. The Concord, N.H., native pitched four seasons at the College of the Holy Cross (Mass.) and graduated in 2007 with a degree in psychology and philosophy.
Harkey, 57, returns for his 15th season as the Yankees’ Bullpen Coach, having held the position from 2008-13 before returning to the club’s coaching staff for the 2016 season. In 2023, Yankees relievers posted a Major League-best 3.34 ERA (619.0IP, 230ER), .221 opponents’ batting average and .349 opponents’ slugging percentage, ranked second in the Majors in HR/9.0IP (0.86, second in AL) and opponents’ OPS (.658, first in AL), fifth in WHIP (1.23, third in AL) and sixth in opponents’ OBP (.309, third in AL). According to Elias, it marked the 12th time in franchise history (since 1913 when ER became an official stat in both leagues) and just the second time in the last 42 years (since 1982) that the Yankees posted the lowest bullpen ERA in the Majors (also 1917, 1922, ‘27, ‘39, ‘45, ‘47, ‘55, ‘57, ‘70, ‘81 and ’97).
The 2024 season marks his 18th on a Major League coaching staff, also serving as the Pitching Coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks from 2014-15 and spending the 2006 season as the Bullpen Coach for the Florida Marlins. He also served as a Minor League Pitching Coach for seven seasons in the Chicago Cubs (2007) and San Diego Padres (2000-05) organizations.
The San Diego, Calif., native was the fourth overall pick of the 1987 First-Year Player Draft by the Chicago Cubs and went 36-36 with a 4.49 ERA in 131 Major League games (104 starts) with the Cubs (1988, ‘90-93), Colorado Rockies (1994), Oakland Athletics (1995), California Angels (1995) and Los Angeles Dodgers (1997).
Druschel, 48, enters his third season as the Yankees’ Assistant Pitching Coach and his sixth season in the Yankees organization. He also served as the Yankees’ Manager of Pitch Development for three seasons from 2019-21. Prior to joining the Yankees, Druschel spent five years at the University of Iowa, serving as the team’s Pitching Coach from 2017-19 after working as their Director of Baseball Operations from 2014-17.
Druschel began his coaching career as an Assistant Coach at Vinton-Shellsburg H.S. (Iowa) in 1998, before joining the collegiate ranks at Indiana University from 1999-2000. He spent five years (2000-04) at Mount St. Clare College (Iowa), serving as an Assistant from 2000-01 before taking over as Head Coach from 2001-04. From 2004-14, Druschel worked at Mount Mercy University (Iowa), serving as an Assistant from 2004-05 before being promoted to Head Coach (2005-14).
The Vinton, Iowa, native played baseball and basketball at Upper Iowa University and Mount Mercy University (Iowa) from 1994-98. He earned his master’s degree in athletic administration from Indiana University in 2001.
Rowson, 47, rejoins the Yankees organization with 22 years of professional coaching experience. The 2024 season will mark his 10th on a Major League coaching staff and his first as the Yankees’ Hitting Coach.
Rowson spent last season as the Detroit Tigers’ Assistant Hitting Coach after serving as the Bench Coach for the Miami Marlins from 2020-22. Prior to his stint in Miami, he was the Hitting Coach for the Minnesota Twins from 2017-19.
The Mount Vernon, N.Y., native spent nine years in the Yankees organization from 2006-11 and 2014-16, serving as the Minor League Hitting Coordinator in seven of those seasons (2008-11, ’14-16). He was also the Hitting Coach for Single-A Tampa from 2006-07. In between his stints with the Yankees, Rowson spent two seasons with the Chicago Cubs organization (2012-13), originally serving as their Minor League Hitting Coordinator before being named the Cubs’ Major League Hitting Coach in June 2012.
Rowson began his coaching career with the Los Angeles Angels organization, spending four years as a Minor League Hitting Coach with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga (2004-05), Single-A Cedar Rapids (2003) and Rookie-level Provo (2002).
He was originally selected by the Seattle Mariners in the ninth round of the 1994 First-Year Player Draft out of Mount St. Michael High School in the Bronx. The former outfielder played three minor league seasons with the Mariners (1995-96) and Yankees (1997) before playing in the Independent Heartland League in 1998.
Dykes, 33, enters his third season on the Yankees’ Major League coaching staff. Prior to joining the club’s Major League coaching staff, he served as the Hitting Coach for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in 2021. Dykes had been assigned to serve as the Hitting Coach for the Yankees’ Single-A Charleston affiliate in 2020 before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to joining the Yankees, he spent one season (2019) as the Hitting Coach at Indiana University, where the Hoosiers won the Big Ten regular season championship and led all of Division I in home runs during the regular season. He also served as Hitting Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Virginia Military Institute from 2015-18. Dykes began his coaching career as an Assistant at his alma mater, Western Kentucky, from 2013-14. He played four seasons at Western Kentucky (2009-12), graduating with a bachelor’s degree in sport management before completing his master’s in athletic administration in 2014.
Roessler, 64, rejoins the Yankees organization as an Assistant Hitting Coach. The 2024 season will mark Roessler’s 13th year with the Yankees (also 2004-14, ’19) and 37th season in professional baseball. In 2019, he was a Player Development Advisor for the Yankees after serving as the organization’s Director of Player Development from September 2004 through the end of the 2014 season. Additionally, he was the organization’s Field Coordinator from September 2004 through the 2013 season and served as the club’s Hitting Coordinator in 2005, ’12 and ’13. For the second half of the 2006 season, Roessler also managed Single-A Charleston.
Roessler spent the last four seasons (2020-23) as the Assistant Hitting Coach for the Washington Nationals. In between his previous two stints with the Yankees, he spent four seasons with the Mets (2015-18), serving as their Assistant Hitting Coach from 2015-17 before being promoted to Hitting Coach for the 2018 season.
Prior to joining the Yankees, Roessler was the Minor League Hitting Coordinator for the Houston Astros from 2002-04. From 2000-01, he was the Major League Hitting Coach for the Montreal Expos after serving as the organization’s Minor League Hitting Coordinator from 1995-97. In between stints with the Expos, Roessler was the Minor League Hitting Coordinator for the Pittsburgh Pirates from 1998-99.
He also worked for the Chicago White Sox organization from 1988-94. Roessler was the organization’s Roving Hitting Instructor in 1988 before serving as the Hitting Coach for Single-A Sarasota in 1989 and ’93, Double-A Birmingham from 1990-92 and Single-A South Bend in 1994.
Roessler began his coaching career with Old Dominion University (Va.), serving as the Assistant Baseball Coach from 1983-88.
The Phoenix, Ariz., native received his bachelor’s degree in physical education from the University of Arizona in 1983 and a master’s degree in sport management from Old Dominion in 1987. He played baseball at the University of Arizona and was a member of the 1980 College World Series championship team.
Rojas, 42, enters his third season as the Yankees’ Third Base and Outfield Coach. Prior to joining the Yankees. Rojas spent 16 years with the New York Mets organization (2006-21), including two seasons as the club’s Manager (2020-21). During that span, the Mets went 103-119 (.464) in 222 games.
Rojas was the sixth Dominican-born Manager in Major League history. His father, Felipe Alou, was the first when he managed the Montreal Expos (1992-2001) and San Francisco Giants (2003-06) after his 17-season Major League career. Luis and Felipe were the sixth father-son duo to both serve as Major League Managers, joining Buddy and David Bell, Aaron and Bob Boone, Connie and Earle Mack, George and Dick Sisler, and Bob and Joel Skinner. His brother, Moises Alou, also played 17 seasons in the Majors with seven different teams.
In 2019, Rojas served as the club’s Major League Quality Control Coach. Prior to joining the Mets’ Major League staff, Rojas managed Double-A Binghamton (2017-18), Single-A St. Lucie (2015-16), Single-A Savannah (2012-14) and the Gulf Coast League Mets (2011). Rojas also served as a Minor League Coach for Single-A Savannah in 2010 and held the same role for the Gulf Coast League Mets from 2008-09. He spent his first full season in the Mets organization in 2007 with the Dominican Summer League team after joining the organization in 2006.
Rojas also managed the Dominican Republic National Team in the WBSC Premier12 tournament in 2019. Additionally, the Santo Domingo, D.R., native led Leones del Escogido to a Dominican Winter League championship in 2015-16.
During his playing career, Rojas spent time in the minor league systems of the Baltimore Orioles (2000), Florida Marlins (2001-02) and Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals (2003-05).
Chapman, 45, enters his third season as the club’s First Base and Infield Coach and his 12th in the Yankees organization. He also enters his third season as the organization’s Director of Infield. Prior to joining the Major League coaching staff, he served as the Yankees’ Minor League Infield Coordinator in 2021 after spending the 2020 season coaching at the Alternate Site as the Assistant Infield Coordinator. Chapman had been assigned to serve as the Manager for the GCL Yankees in 2020 before the season was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to that, he spent four seasons as a Defensive Coach for Single-A Charleston (2015-16, ’19) and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (2018). In 2017, he managed the DSL Yankees. Chapman made his minor league managerial debut in 2014 with the GCL Yankees 1 after making his professional coaching debut in 2013 as a coach for the GCL Yankees 2. He was also an Assistant Coach for the 18U USA National team in 2012 that won a gold medal in Seoul, South Korea.
The Jacksonville, Fla., native was originally selected by the Phillies in the 17th round of the 2000 First-Year Player Draft out of Mississippi State University and made his Major League debut with the club in 2003. He played in 506 combined minor league games over seven seasons with the Philadelphia (2000-03), Kansas City (2004), Cincinnati (2005) and Pittsburgh (2006) organizations, hitting .286 (507-for-1,771) with 227, 117 doubles, 5 triples, 41HR, 286RBI and 185BB.
Swanson, 41, enters his fifth season as the Yankees’ Director of Catching and his first as the club’s Major League Field Coordinator. He previously served as the club’s Quality Control/Catching Coach and Director of Catching from 2020-23. Prior to joining the Yankees, he spent two seasons (2018-19) as the Minnesota Twins’ Minor League Catching Coordinator.
The Seattle, Wash., native spent nine seasons at various levels of collegiate baseball, including a five-year stint as a Volunteer Assistant Coach at the University of Washington (2013-17), where he also briefly served as the school’s Director of Baseball Operations for one season (2012). During his tenure as a coach at Washington, his catchers garnered three All-Pac-12 Conference selections, with two also being selected in the first three rounds of the First-Year Player Draft. He also served as Head Coach at Green River Community College (Wash.) in 2011.
Swanson was a lecturer in the School of Physical Education and School Health, while also serving as an Assistant Coach at his alma mater, Central Washington University, in 2010. In 2009, he was an Assistant at Everett Community College (Wash.), and in 2008, he taught and coached baseball at Sultan High School.
Major League Baseball Announces 2024 Spring Training and Regular Season Game Times
January 10, 2024
Major League Baseball has officially announced the game times for its 2024 regular season and Spring Training, including the inaugural Spring Breakout event. This announcement is a part of the MLB’s continuous efforts to innovate and engage fans with exciting baseball action.
MLB Spring Breakout 2024
The MLB Spring Breakout, a new feature in the baseball calendar, is set to debut from March 14-17, 2024. This four-day event will showcase the current stars of Minor League Baseball, focusing on the top 20-25 prospects from each MLB organization. A total of 16 exhibition games will be played across Grapefruit and Cactus league stadiums during Spring Training.
Spring Training Schedule
The Cactus League officially begins on Thursday, February 22, with the Dodgers and Padres facing off in a league showdown. All 30 Major League clubs will then play in Cactus and Grapefruit League games starting Saturday, February 24. This includes the Red Sox and Rays playing a pair of Spring Training contests in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, on March 9-10. The international exhibition series marks the first of four visits by MLB to different countries outside the United States and Canada throughout 2024.
2024 Regular Season Opening
The 2024 regular season is set to begin with the Seoul Opening Series, featuring the Dodgers and the Padres in South Korea’s first Major League games on Wednesday, March 20 and Thursday, March 21. Following this, the regular season will officially kick off on Thursday, March 28, with all 30 clubs playing, including six divisional matchups and one interleague contest (Cubs-Rangers) among the 15 games.
Notable Matchups and Game Times
- Yankees open the 2024 season on March 28 against the Astros, with their home opener scheduled for April 5 against the Blue Jays.
- Guardians’ Opening Day is also on March 28 at the A’s, hosting the White Sox and Yankees for the first homestand of the season.
- Royals start their season on March 28 versus the Twins at Kauffman Stadium.
- Tigers’ Opening Day is set for March 28 at the White Sox, with their home opener against the A’s on April 5.
- Twins open the season on March 28 at the Royals, with their home opener against the Guardians on April 4.
The 2024 MLB schedule offers a blend of traditional matchups, international games, and exciting new events like the Spring Breakout, promising a dynamic and engaging season for baseball fans worldwide.
Inter Miami CF Signs Tyler Hall as Homegrown Player
January 10, 2024
Inter Miami CF has made a strategic move by signing 17-year-old academy graduate Tyler Hall as a Homegrown Player. The defender’s contract with the club extends through the 2027 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, with an option for 2028. Hall’s signing marks him as the eighth academy product to make it to Inter Miami CF’s First Team.
Tyler Hall, a standout defender, made his professional debut in 2022 with Inter Miami CF II in MLS NEXT Pro, where he was the youngest-ever player to start a match in the league. Over the 2022 and 2023 seasons, Hall made a total of 29 appearances, including 24 starts, showcasing his potential and skill on the field.
In 2023, Hall’s talents were further recognized when he was selected as one of the top 44 best youth soccer players in North America, earning him a spot in the 2023 MLS NEXT All-Star Game. His performance in this game solidified his status as a promising young talent in the soccer world.
Apart from his club commitments, Hall has also been an active participant in U.S. youth international teams. He served as the captain of the U.S. U-17 team at the November 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia, where he showcased his leadership and soccer skills on an international stage.
The signing of Tyler Hall as a Homegrown Player underscores Inter Miami CF’s commitment to nurturing and developing young talent within their academy system. Hall joins other academy graduates who have successfully transitioned to the club’s First Team, demonstrating the effectiveness of the club’s youth development program.
With the addition of Tyler Hall to their roster, Inter Miami CF continues to build a team with a mix of experienced players and promising young talent. Hall’s development at the MLS level will be a key aspect of Inter Miami CF’s strategy in the coming seasons.
Inter Miami CF’s preseason schedule is set to begin next week, including a highly anticipated match against Al-Hilal on January 29, which will feature a riveting encounter between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. The club’s regular-season campaign will kick off on February 21 against Real Salt Lake.
Colorado Rapids Sign Goalkeeper Adam Beaudry to Homegrown Player Contract
January 10, 2024
The Colorado Rapids have announced the signing of 17-year-old goalkeeper Adam Beaudry to a four-year Homegrown Player contract, with an option for two additional years, marking a significant step in the young player’s career.
Adam Beaudry, a product of the Rapids Academy and Real Colorado, has shown exceptional promise in his young career. In the 2023 season, he featured in 16 matches for Rapids 2, starting all of them and achieving three clean sheets. His performances helped Rapids 2 secure the No. 1 overall seed in MLS NEXT Pro. Beaudry’s talent was further recognized as he was named the MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Month for both May and July and was a finalist for the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro Goalkeeper of the Year award.
Beaudry’s talent extends beyond the club level to the international stage, where he has represented the U.S. at the U-17 level. He was part of the U.S. team that competed in the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Indonesia, making it to the knockout stage. Beaudry also played a crucial role in the U.S. team’s journey to the final of the Concacaf U-17 Championship in Guatemala.
Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith and Head Coach Chris Armas have both expressed high regard for Beaudry’s abilities and potential. Smith highlighted Beaudry’s work ethic, commitment to learning, and experience on the youth international stage as key factors in his development. Armas emphasized the importance of keeping Beaudry in Colorado and expressed confidence in his bright future and potential for further growth.
As Beaudry joins the first team, he becomes a part of a goalkeeping roster that includes U.S. national team player Zack Steffen and Serbian international Marko Ilić. The club is clearly invested in nurturing his talent and providing him with opportunities to develop further.
Adam Beaudry’s signing is a testament to the Colorado Rapids’ commitment to developing young talent and investing in their future. Beaudry’s early achievements and potential make him a promising prospect for the club, and his progress will be eagerly watched by fans and experts alike.