FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Lionel Messi smiled and waved to adoring fans during a celebration Saturday before Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Chicago Fire FC to honor his latest Copa America title.

Messi stood near Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas as a video filled with highlights from his illustrious career was shown inside Chase Stadium. They stood on a custom mat, with “Lionel Messi 45 titles,” covering the center circle of the pitch.

“Tonight, we celebrate a great milestone of our captain Leo Messi in becoming the footballer who has lifted the most trophies in the history of this sport,” Mas said.

“And I am sure he won’t stop at 45. We hope he can lift many more in the future.”

No player has won more titles for club and country.

No player has celebrated more success in the sport’s history.

However, this celebration was brief and somber. And the quest to Messi’s 46th title is on standby.

Messi slowly limped to and from midfield, wearing a walking boot on his injured right ankle. He wasn’t inclined to say a few words, allowing his smiles and waves to speak for him.

Every step he took was a reminder of the awkward play that caused his right ankle to twist inside, swelling to the size of a softball, as he wept on Argentina’s bench in the second half of the Copa America final before victory.

It was also a telling barometer of just how soon Messi will return from injury: It might not be soon at all.

Messi’s ankle will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis, Inter Miami coach Tata Martino said earlier this week.

Martino was mum about Messi’s status after the game, including his potential to miss the MLS All-Star game this week.

The way Messi walked showed it could be a month-to-month affair.

The bad news: Leagues Cup begins next Saturday, and Messi will likely be unavailable to help Inter Miami defend its title (the 44th of his career).

The tournament is a five-week dash with a final set for Aug. 25. It might not be enough recovery time for Messi to make his return.

The good news: Inter Miami is in tremendous shape for the rest of the MLS season, and a playoff run where home-field advantage and less travel for Messi could also play its parts.

Inter Miami has won six of seven matches without Messi since Copa America began, adding another on Saturday thanks to goals by Matias Rojas in the sixth minute and Jordi Alba in the 75th minute in a 2-1 win over Chicago.

“We tried to put together a team where we could hide the absences, especially Leo’s absence,” Martino said of squad. “And well, I think, in that sense, the guys who had to take charge have given very good (performances).”

Inter Miami has 53 points after the Chicago match, and a first-place lead in the MLS Eastern Conference strengthened with two wins and two losses by second-place Cincinnati this week.

If Inter Miami failed to gain another point, they likely could still qualify for the MLS playoffs.

The 50-point threshold alone would be good for at least a Top 7 seed in each of the last three seasons, and MLS playoffs welcome nine teams from each conference into the postseason.

Not only has Inter Miami won without Messi, they’re on prime footing to continue competing for a top playoff seed in anticipation for his return.

Seeing Messi raise another trophy this year would be a sight to see.

But just seeing Messi return to action – when he’s not injured, crying or limping – would be good enough for his legion of adoring fans.

When will Messi return from injury?

It’s unclear when Messi will return, but he will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis, Martino said earlier this week. 

When did Messi get hurt? 

Messi injured his ankle during the Copa America final against Colombia last Sunday. He was injured in the first half and tried to play in the second half before making an early exit. 

What is Inter Miami’s record? 

Inter Miami (16 wins, four losses, five draws) is in first in the Supporters’ Shield Standings with 53 points (two points ahead of the team in first place). The club also leads MLS with 56 goals. 

When does Leagues Cup tournament begin? 

The Leagues Cup begins next Saturday, with matches between MLS and LIGA MX clubs, all live streamed on Apple TV. 

Inter Miami will host Puebla next Saturday in Chase Stadium, and face Tigres UANL on Aug. 3 at NRG Stadium in Houston in the first two games of Leagues Cup. 

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NHL general managers had money to spend this offseason with the salary cap rising from $83.5 million to $88 million.

That led to a busy free agency season in which USA TODAY Sports’ top 25 players moved within three days.

Though things are calming down, there are more transactions to come.

Stars Leon Draisaitl, Sidney Crosby, Mitch Marner and Igor Shesterkin are eligible to receive contract extensions. Jeremy Swayman, Lucas Raymond, Seth Jarvis and Moritz Seider are among restricted free agents needing new contracts. The Columbus Blue Jackets are still looking for a coach.

Here are the top NHL transactions that have occurred during the 2024 offseason:

July 20: Canucks sign free agent forward Daniel Sprong

Winger Daniel Sprong’s deal with the Vancouver Canucks is for one year at a reported $975,000. He’s coming off back-to-back 40-point seasons despite averaging 11 to 12 minutes a night. He’ll add secondary scoring to a team that ranked sixth in goals per game last season. Sprong will get another chance to prove himself after the Seattle Kraken didn’t give him a qualifying offer in 2023 and the Detroit Red Wings let him go to free agency.

July 19: Red Wings, Joe Veleno reach deal, avoid arbitration

The Detroit Red Wings and forward Joe Veleno agreed to a two-year, $4.55 million contract, according to Sportsnet. He had filed for salary arbitration after getting a career-best 12 goals and 28 points in a bottom six role.

July 17: Hurricanes, Evgeny Kuznetsov agree to terminate contract

The Carolina Hurricanes placed forward Evgeny Kuznetsov on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract. He cleared waivers and the contract was terminated, which will allow Kuznetsov to play in Russia. He had one year, at a $7.8 million cap hit, left on his contract. The Washington Capitals, who traded him to the Hurricanes last season, retained half of that, and both teams are now free of that cap hit.

The mutual decision brings another offseason change to the Hurricanes roster. They weren’t able to re-sign trade deadline acquisition Jake Guentzel and traded his rights to the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he signed. Defensemen Brady Skjei and Brett Pesce and forwards Teuvo Teravainen and Stefan Noesen left in free agency. Defensemen Shayne Gostisbehere and Matt Walker and forwards Jack Roslovic and William Carrier are among the offseason additions.

Kuznetsov spent time last season in the NHL/NHL Players’ Association assistance program and finished with only 24 points in 63 games. He scored a league-best 32 points during the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup run. He also was known for his goal celebration of flapping his arms like a bird.

The Hurricanes announced later in the day that they had re-signed forward Jack Drury to a two-year contract with a $1.725 million cap hit.

July 16: Joe Pavelski announces retirement

Joe Pavelski, who said in June he would take next season off, officially announced his retirement. Pavelski, 40, finishes with 476 goals and 1,068 points in 1,332 career regular-season games between the San Jose Sharks and Dallas Stars. He’s the NHL’s leading U.S.-born playoff goal scorer with 74 and helped lead the Stars to back-to-back trips to the Western Conference final. Pavelski never won a Stanley Cup but he went to the Final in 2016 with the Sharks, scoring a playoff-leading 14 goals and four game-winners, and in 2020 with the Stars. He had been captain of the Sharks.

July 16: Kings re-sign Quinton Byfield

The No. 2 overall pick in the 2020 draft will get five years at a $6.25 million average. The Los Angeles Kings forward was a restricted free agent. The deal follows a breakthrough last season with a jump from three goals and 22 points to 20 goals and 55 points while being moved into a top six role. If he continues that progress, the deal will look good years from now.

Also: The St. Louis Blues said defenseman Torey Krug has been diagnosed with pre-arthritic changes in his left ankle and will be evaluated in six to eight weeks. If he needs surgery, he will miss the 2024-25 season. The team said the injury is a cumulative result of a bone fracture from earlier in his career. … Vancouver Canucks goalie Arturs Silovs signed a two-year contract. He was pressed into action in the playoffs after an injury to Thatcher Demko.

July 13: Rangers, Blue Jackets sign players

The New York Rangers re-signed defenseman Braden Schneider to a two-year contract with a reported $2.2 million cap hit. The Columbus Blue Jackets and goalie Jet Greaves settled on a two-year deal and avoided arbitration. It’s a two-way deal the first year that pays him less in the American Hockey League, but the second year is a one-way deal.

July 11: Utah’s Tij Iginla signs entry-level contract

Igina, the son of Hall of Famer Jarome Iginla, was the Utah Hockey Club’s first draft pick, taken sixth overall in June. He had 84 points in 64 games last season with Kelowna of the Western Hockey League. Iginla and Detroit Red Wings selection are the 13th and 14th of June’s 32 first-round picks to sign a three-year, entry-level contract.

Also: The Lightning and defenseman J.J. Moser reached a two-year, $6.75 million contract, avoiding arbitration. He was acquired from Utah in the Mikhail Sergachev trade.

July 10: Ryan Suter signs with Blues

Defenseman Ryan Suter, 39, who was bought out for the second time in his career, signed a one-year, $775,000 contract. He can earn another $2.225 million in performance bonuses. The Dallas Stars bought out the final year of his three-year contract. He was bought out by the Minnesota Wild in 2021.

July 8: Capitals name Chris Patrick general manager

Chris Patrick becomes the seventh general manager in Capitals history after being promoted from associate GM. Brian MacLellan was promoted to president of hockey operations. Patrick is the son of Capitals chairman Dick Patrick.

The Capitals were one of the busier teams this offseason, trading for Pierre-Luc Dubois, Andrew Mangiapane, Jakob Chychrun and Logan Thompson and signing Matt Roy, Brandon Duhaime and Taylor Raddysh.

July 6: Top two NHL draft picks sign

No. 1 pick Macklin Celebrini (Sharks) and No. 2 pick Artyom Levshunov (Blackhawks) signed three-year, entry-level deals rather than return for another season at college. They could end up at different levels. Celebrini, who was the clear-cut No. 1 pick, is expected to open the season with the Sharks. Levshunov, depending on what happens in training camp, could start in the American Hockey League.

July 5: 14 players file for salary arbitration

Fourteen restricted free agents have filed for salary arbitration, the NHL Players’ Association announced.

They are (in alphabetical order): Jake Christiansen (Blue Jackets), Connor Dewar (Maple Leafs), Jack Drury (Hurricanes), Ty Emberson (Sharks), Jet Greaves (Blue Jackets), Ryan Lindgren (Rangers), Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen (Sabres), Beck Malenstyn (Sabres), Kirill Marchenko (Blue Jackets), J.J. Moser (Lightning), Martin Necas (Hurricanes), Spencer Stastney (Predators), Joe Veleno (Red Wings) and Oliver Wahlstrom (Islanders).

The key one is Necas, who has been linked to trade rumors. Moser and Malenstyn were acquired in offseason trades.

Hearings will be held from July 20 to Aug. 4, though nearly all players reach a settlement beforehand.

July 3: Kraken hires Jessica Campbell as assistant coach

Jessica Campbell made history when she was hired to join Dan Bylsma’s coaching staff on the Seattle Kraken.

She becomes the first female full-time assistant coach in NHL history to work behind the bench

Campbell, 32, made similar history in the American Hockey League when Bylsma hired her as an assistant coach with the Coachella Valley Firebirds in 2022. Bylsma, a former Stanley Cup winner, is bringing Campbell with him to the NHL after being named Kraken coach in May.

‘I just know that if the team has success and my impact is a good one, it could potentially open the doors for others,’ she said.

July 1-4: Early days of free agency

The Nashville Predators were among the winners by signing Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault and Brady Skjei. The Carolina Hurricanes and Vegas Golden Knights lost key players early but have added back. On Day 3, the Detroit Red Wings signed two-time Stanley Cup winner Vladimir Tarasenko.

A look at the opening days of 2024 NHL free agency

June 24-July 1: Who was traded before free agency?

The Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals were busy on the trade front. The Lightning moved out Mikhail Sergachev and Tanner Jeannot, then acquired the rights to Jake Guentzel and signed him to a seven-year, $63 million contract. The Capitals traded for forwards Dubois and Mangiapane, defenseman Chychrun and goalie Thompson, moving out goalie Darcy Kuemper and Beck Malenstyn.

According to Spectrum SportsNet’s Lakers beat reporter Mike Trudell, the duo will be held out of the Lakers’ final game in Las Vegas on Saturday against the Chicago Bulls. Trudell said the decision to sit their two draft picks for the consolation contest was ‘a team medical decision based on volume of practices and games throughout the Cali Classic and Las Vegas’ summer leagues.

Knecht, the 2023-24 SEC Player of the Year, entered Saturday’s games in Las Vegas leading all rookie scorers with 21.3 points per game in the 2024 NBA Summer League.

After some early struggles, James put forth his two best performances in his final two Summer League games.

All things Lakers: Latest Los Angeles Lakers news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.

Miami Dolphins edge rusher Shaquil Barrett has shockingly announced he is retiring.

In an Instagram post on Saturday, Barrett said:

”It’s time for me to hang it up. It’s been a great ride and I appreciate everything that came with it over the years. I’m ready to shift my full focus to my wife and kids and helping them realize there dreams and catch em. Anyone who caught their dreams before know the work, time and consistency required to reach them.

“I’m ready to start building them skills up in my kids which will take 100% commitment. Ik to some it’ll be a surprise but l’ve been thinking about this for a while and the decision has never been more clear then it is now.”

Barrett, 31, had signed a one-year deal with Miami this offseason.

All things Dolphins: Latest Miami Dolphins news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.

Shaq Barrett retirement hurts Dolphins

As Jaelan Phillips (Achilles) and Bradley Chubb (ACL) will begin training camp on the physically unable to perform list, this puts additional pressure on rookie edge rushers Chop Robinson and Mo Kamara.

Kamara was looking forward to mentoring from Barrett, who also went to Colorado State.

Miami Dolphins’ Shaquil Barrett retires

Barrett had 19.5 sacks for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019. While he hasn’t been as dominant in recent years, he was still a highly effective player.

This is a setback to a pass rush group that lost edges Andrew Van Ginkel and Emmanuel Ogbah in the offseason.

The Dolphins open training camp Wednesday in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Joe Schad can be reached at jschad@pbpost.com.

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PHOENIX — Where Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese go, attention follows.

The rivalry between Clark and Reese captivated the nation during their collegiate days at Iowa and LSU, respectively, and the well-deserved hype has followed the two superstars into the WNBA.

Clark, who was drafted No. 1 overall by the Indiana Fever, and Reese, who was taken with the No. 7 pick by the Chicago Sky, have been pitted against each other throughout their careers – whether by their devoted fanbases or in the media – but a white flag has been raised temporarily. They were both named to the 2024 WNBA All-Star team, becoming the first pair of rookies to earn a nod since 2014. After years of going head-to-head against each other, Clark and Reese will team up for the first time in their careers.

‘Everybody can wear their ‘get along’ shirts together for one day at least,’ Reese joked Friday ahead of the WNBA All-Star Game, Saturday in Phoenix. ‘I’m looking forward to it.’

2024 WNBA ALL-STAR WEEKEND: Schedule, TV, rosters

‘It’s super rare to be here as a rookie and then to have two of us is really great overall,’ Clark added on Friday. ‘The attention that we bring… (carries) to everybody else. I think it’s going to continue to help grow the game.’

Clark and Reese are no strangers to shattering records. Earlier this week, Clark set a WNBA record for single-game assists, dishing 19 during the Fever’s game against the Dallas Wings. Reese set a record for most consecutive double-doubles earlier this month with 15, the most since Candace Parker had 12 in a row between 2009 and 2010. Reese leads the league in offensive rebounds per game (4.7), and Clark leads in assists per game (8.2). And both are No. 1 and 2 in the WNBA Rookie of the Year rankings, although the order depends on who you ask.

It’s one thing to catch people’s attention, and it’s another to keep it. Basketball Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller, who will coach Reese, Clark and Team WNBA in the All-Star Game against the U.S. Olympic team, said she ‘loves and appreciates their rivalry.’

‘I love what they’ve done for the women’s game from the collegiate level until now, and it’s working,’ Miller said. ‘It was only a matter of time. Great narratives. Great storylines. But now the bottom line comes down to one thing: it’s about basketball, and its about wins. Both of these young ladies and their teams, people don’t want to face them down the stretch. Now it’s starting to click. It’s clicking in Chicago and it’s starting to click in Indiana.’

Despite being on the same team, the competitiveness between Reese and Clark is still there. Clark was known for her logo threes in Iowa, but it was Reese who defeated her in the half court shot competition following a Team WNBA practice at the Footprint Center on Friday. ‘I love half court shots. … I finally got mine and got my $100. So I’m feeling good going into tomorrow,’ Reese said.

Caitlin Clark opts out of 3-point contest. Here’s why

It was a shock to WNBA fans to see Caitlin Clark’s name missing from the list of participants for the 2024 WNBA All-Star 3-point contest. On Friday, the Fever rookie explained that she was invited to compete but ultimately decided to sit out to prioritize the All-Star Game and get some rest. 

‘I’ve been playing basketball for a year straight,’ Clark said. ‘It’s not an easy thing to just show up and shoot off a rack. It’s not something I’ve done before. It’s not something I’ve had a lot of time to practice. I’ve been helping my team win games. Just enjoying this break. There will be plenty of opportunities for me to do that at some point.’

It’s been a long grind for Clark this year. The 22-year-old wrapped up her college career at Iowa in April, where she became the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Div. I history and led the Hawkeyes to the NCAA title game. Clark was selected with the No. 1 pick of the WNBA draft by the Fever on April 15 and made her WNBA debut a month later in May.

‘I need a break, and I need to take some time to myself to enjoy what I want to do,’ Clark added. ‘At times that can be tough being in the position that I’m in, but I think it’s going to be healthiest for myself.’

PHOENIX — History was made at the 2024 WNBA All-Star weekend in Phoenix when Allisha Gray of the Atlanta Dream became the first player to win the skills challenge and 3-point contest in the same season. 

And the festivities are just getting started. 

Team USA, headlined by five-time Olympic gold medalist Diana Taurasi, will face off against Team WNBA, which features up-and-coming rookies Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET. The U.S. women’s national team may have won seven straight gold medals, but Team WNBA coach Cheryl Miller said her team of All-Stars aren’t going to make it easy for them.

Before we look ahead to Saturday’s main-event, we can’t overlook Friday’s historic performance. USA Today Sports recapped all of the action from Phoenix’s sold-out Footprint Center. 

Allisha Gray wins 3-point contest AND skills challenge

Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray swept the WNBA All-Star activites on Friday. After winning the skills challenge earlier in the night, she took down New York Liberty big Jonquel Jones in the 3-point challenge to become the first person in WNBA history to win both in the same season. 

“It feels amazing. Another $55K in my pocket,” Gray said, referring to Aflac’s $55K bonus for each competition.

It came down to the final 3-point ball. 

Both Gray and Jones had hot and cold streaks during the final round. Gray finished with 22 points, which she contributed to fatigue from competing in both events. Jones had the opportunity to tie Gray’s score with her last ball, but it came up just short of the basket. Jones held her head in disappointment as she finished with 21 points. 

“(Jones) had me nervous, I’m not going to lie,” Gray admitted. 

Jonquel Jones, Allisha Gray advance in 3-point contest 

No Caitlin Clark or Sabrina Ionescu, no problem. 

New York Liberty’s Jonquel Jones scored 25 points during an impressive run in the first round of the 3-point contest. She even knocked down a Starry range ball worth 3 points.

Jones will face off against Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray in the final round after Gray scored 23 points. Minnesota Lynx’s Kayla McBride (21), Washington Mystic’s Stephanie Dolson (20) and Connecticut Sun’s Marina Mabrey (19) rounded out the five competitors. 

Gray is pulling double duty and won the skills challenge earlier in the night. 

How to watch WNBA skills challenge, 3-point contest: TV channel, stream

ESPN is broadcasting the contest, and you can live stream it on the ESPN app, ESPN+ and on Fubo (free trial).

Cheryl Miller gets standing ovation in Phoenix 

Hall of Famer Cheryl Miller, the coach of Team WNBA, received a standing ovation on Friday. Miller was courtside taking in Friday’s All-Star festivities when she was projected onto the Jumbotron. The sold-out crowd at Footprint Center instantly stood to their feet and applauded Miller, who served as the first ever head coach and general manager of the Phoenix Mercury from 1997 to 2000. 

Miller wore a black shirt that read “Equality in Women’s Sports,” with “we deserve to be here” printed on the back.

Flau’jae Johnson supports Hailey Van Lith in 3×3 challenge

LSU basketball star Flau’jae Johnson was spotted courtside in Phoenix rooting on her former teammate Hailey Van Lith, who transferred to TCU in April following a season with the Tigers. Van Lith is a member of Team USA’s 3×3 basketball team, rounded out by Cierra Burdick, Dearica Hamby and Rhyne Howard. The U.S. women’s 3×3 basketball team participated in a 10-minute exhibition match at Footprint Center on Friday ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Johnson’s former teammate Angel Reese will compete in the WNBA All-Star game on Saturday.

Allisha Gray wins WNBA All-Star skills challenge by 2.4 seconds 

Phoenix Mercury’s Sophie Cunningham challenged the hometown crowd at Footprint Center to bring the energy for the final round of the WNBA All-Star Skills challenge, where she went head-to-head with Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray.

“Y’all I thought you were pretty quiet,” Cunningham said to the crowd after her first round. 

Fans were roaring during the next round. Although Cunningham struggled from beyond the arc, she caught momentum in the back-half to finish in 34.5 seconds, quicker than her first-round time of 35.5 seconds. 

Gray highlighted her speed and was quick out the game again. She also struggled to knock down her 3-point shots, but sprinted down the court for her outlet pass and layup to win at 32.1 seconds. She said she was fatigued from sprinting, but still came out victorious. 

Gray and Cunningham hugged after the contest. Commissioner Cathy Engelbert presented her with a trophy. 

Allisha Gray, Sophie Cunningham advance to skills challenge final 

The timed obstacle course consists of three bounce passes, a chest pass, a 3-point shot from the top of the arc, an elbow jumper, a corner three, an outlet pass, speed dribbles and a final shot from anywhere on the court. The top two from the first round advanced to the final round. 

Phoenix Mercury’s Brittney Griner led off the first round of the WNBA All-Star skills challenge with a time of 46.3 seconds. Atlanta Dream’s Allisha Gray made quick work of the 3-pointers and finished in 31.2 seconds. Marina Mabrey, who was traded from the Chicago Sky to the Connecticut Sun earlier this week, finished in 35.7 seconds to knock Griner out of the competition. Mabrey could have finished sooner if it weren’t for a couple mistakes, including one where she missed the ball grab on the final shot. It came back to haunt her. Mercury’s Sophie Cunningham narrowly beat Mabrey for the last spot in the finals by finishing in 35.5 seconds. 

Indiana Fever’s Kelsey Mitchell, who is competing in Erica Wheeler’s place, struggled from the 3-point line and did not finish the obstacle course in time. She was disqualified. 

What are WNBA 3-point contest rules? 

Here are the guidelines for Friday’s event, from a WNBA release: 

The three-point shooters will compete in the two-round, timed competition with ball racks positioned at five main shooting locations around the three-point arc. Four of the racks contain four official WNBA game balls worth one point each and one “money” ball worth two points.  

The fifth rack will be a special “all money ball” rack with every ball worth two points. In addition, two ball pedestals will be positioned at deep shot locations called “The Starry Range.” Each pedestal holds one special ball known as the “Starry” ball; shots made with the special ball are worth three points. The two players with the highest scores in the First Round will advance to the Final Round. 

Who is competing in the WNBA 3-point contest? 

Jonquel Jones, New York LibertyStefanie Dolson, Washington MysticsKayla McBride, Minnesota LynxAllisha Gray, Atlanta DreamMarina Mabrey, Connecticut Sun

Ka-ching! Aflac will pay $55K to All-Star skills, 3-point winners 

The winner of the WNBA All-Star skills challenge and 3-point contest will be laughing all the way to the bank after Aflac upped the ante. 

Seattle Storm All-Star Nneka Ogwumike, who has served as the President of the WNBA Players Association since 2016, announced Thursday that the insurance company will give a $55,000 bonus to each winner. That’s a huge jump from the $2,575 awarded to winners by the league under the WNBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement. 

“I love that Aflac came in and stepped forward and really displayed their investment. Hopefully (led) by example for so many other organizations and companies that are looking to invest and partner,” Ogwumike said during media availability on Friday. “I wish it could have happened in a way where players were aware of it going in, but nevertheless they stepped in.” 

Breanna Stewart had a message to Friday’s participants: “Get that money!”

Why isn’t Caitlin Clark in WNBA 3-point contest? 

It was a shock to fans to see that Clark was not listed as a participant in the WNBA All-Star 3-point contest. On Friday, she said she was invited but ultimately decided to sit out the competition to prioritize rest. 

‘I’ve been playing basketball for a year straight. It’s not an easy thing to just show up and shoot off a rack. It’s not something I’ve done before. It’s not something I’ve had a lot of time to practice. I’ve been helping my team win games. I think just enjoying this break. There will be plenty of opportunities for me to do that at some point.’

Who won the 3-point contest last year?

The New York Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu won the title at the 2023 All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas. Ionescu was nearly perfect in her final run, knocking down 25 of 27 three-point shots to earn 37 of 40 possible points. That’s an all-time record for either the NBA or WNBA.

Ionescu also competed against Golden State Warriors’ Steph Curry during the NBA All-Star Weekend in in Indianapolis in February. She narrowly lost and scored 26 points, to Curry’s 29.

As for any advice? “Try to lock in. One shot at a time. I think it can get overwhelming knowing everyone that’s shooting. Great shooters are in it this year. The crowd usually gets into it a lot. Really it’s just you and the basket. Just not trying to overthink too much about how many shots you are going to take,” Ionescu said Friday. “Enjoy it. You got to have fun.”

Why isn’t Sabrina Ionescu in WNBA 3-point contest?

Ionescu was invited to defend her All-Star 3-point contest title, but she ultimately declined to focus on Team USA, where she’ll make her first Olympic appearance in Paris. 

“Being able to represent my country, it’s something I’ve dreamed of since I was young,” Ionescu told the media on Friday. 

WNBA All-Star Game weekend pictures

Kelsey Mitchell replaces Erica Wheeler in skills challenge 

Indiana Fever’s Erica Wheeler took to social media Friday to express her disappointment in having to miss the competition. Despite the best efforts of Delta Airlines and the Indiana Fever, Wheeler explained she couldn’t find a flight to Phoenix in time for Friday’s competition at Footprint Center. 

“I am soooo hurt!” Wheeler wrote on X, adding a heartbreak emoji in another post.

Kelsey Mitchell, Wheeler’s teammate on the Fever, will fill in for her. Mitchell was spotted warming up ahead of the skills challenge in Wheeler’s No. 17 jersey. In addition to Mitchell, Caitlin Clark and Aliyah Boston were named All-Stars from the Fever. 

WNBA All-Star weekend schedule

This year’s WNBA All-Star game is unlike most.

Not only because it’s the All-Stars facing the U.S. Women’s National Team that will represent the country in the 2024 Paris Olympics — which hasn’t happened since the 2021 Tokyo Olympics — but also because this will be the first All-Star game where fans get to see young superstars Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese.

See the full TV schedule and rosters here.

How much do WNBA All-Stars earn?

It pays to play in the WNBA All-Star game. Under the WNBA’s Collective Bargaining Agreement, All-Star game participants each earn $2,575. The All-Star Game MVP is awarded an additional $5,150. Skills Competition and 3-point contest participants get $1,030 each, while the winners earn $2,575 from the league.

Team USA vs. Team WNBA picks, predictions, odds 

Team USA and a team of WNBA All-Stars face off Saturday night. Who has the best shot to win? 

Check out these WNBA All-Star Game picks and WNBA All-Star predictions for Team USA vs. Team WNBA, which can be seen at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC (stream with free trial from FUBO). 

Team USA is a 6.5-point favorite over Team WNBA in WNBA All-Star Game odds, courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook. 

Team USA is -260 on the moneyline, while Team WNBA is +215. 

Read more from Jeremy Cluff here. 

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Team USA men’s basketball may have thought Saturday’s showcase against South Sudan was going to be relatively easy work, but had to stage a major comeback in its penultimate warm-up before the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Team USA trailed by as many as 16 points, but stormed back with a massive third quarter to claim a 101-100 win over a South Sudan team that fielded just one current NBA player.

LeBron James ended up leading Team USA with 23 points, sparking the comeback by sparking some emotion and finishing off multiple plays with statement dunks. Anthony Davis chipped in with a double-double off the bench, putting up 15 points and adding 11 rebounds.

Still, the story of the game might have been on the losing side. South Sudan got a triple-double out of Carlik Jones, whose stat line included 15 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Former Philadelphia 76ers draft pick Marial Shayok led all scorers with 25 points, going 6-for-12 from three-point range.

It was a much tougher game than expected, especially after Team USA’s pre-Olympic showcase schedule hadn’t included many close calls. Coach Steve Kerr’s team posted an 86-72 win over Canada last week before holding off Australia late Monday to win 98-92. Most recently, Team USA rolled to a 105-79 win over a Serbia team featuring three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić.

Meet Team USA: See which athletes made the U.S. Olympic team and where they are from

South Sudan used Saturday’s game to serve notice that they’re capable of worrying any team at these Olympics, and these two teams will meet again in Group C in just under two weeks.

Team USA vs. South Sudan highlights

When does Team USA play next?

Team USA will get one more exhibition game in before the 2024 Paris Olympics get underway. The U.S. will play Germany in London on Monday, July 22, with tip-off set for 3 p.m. ET.

Final score: Team USA 101, South Sudan 100

South Sudan gets multiple bites at the rim, but Team USA — thanks in part to a key block from Anthony Edwards amid the chaos — somehow survives, hanging on for a one-point win.

Oddsmakers listed Team USA as a 40-plus point favorite before tip-off, but South Sudan put in an incredible effort, particularly in an outstanding first half.

Powerful drive from LeBron, Team USA takes lead back

It’s going down to the wire here, with LeBron James driving along the baseline to put Team USA back up by one.

That’s a huge play from LeBron, but now the U.S. has to come up with a stop. South Sudan will inbound with eight seconds to go.

South Sudan leads Team USA late

Patience from South Sudan ends with another basket, and after Anthony Davis’ dunk attempt won’t fall, the game is suddenly up for grabs.

JT Thor missed a three moments ago, but with LeBron James in his face nails a triple from the corner. South Sudan is up 100-99 with 20 seconds to play in what has become a real thriller.

Pace slowing as USA looks to close this game out

With a seven-point lead now, the U.S. is focusing on defense. Three straight stops and some patience have kept South Sudan from sparking a comeback attempt.

However, just as it looks like Team USA might break the century mark, a miss and a quick outlet from South Sudan finds Marial Shayok for his sixth three-ball of the game.

With 90 seconds to play, it’s 99-95 USA.

Anthony Davis keeps USA ahead

The LA Lakers star comes up with a big bucket, and Team USA maintains what is a narrow lead.

Jayson Tatum and Carlik Jones trade baskets, and it’s 95-92 with just 3:30 to play. South Sudan isn’t going away here.

Carlik Jones triple-double confirmed

Carlik Jones wasted no time making sure he gets that triple-double with a nice drive and layup. That gives him 11 points on the night, to go with 10 rebounds and 10 assists.

The Fox broadcast team is talking up his prospects for a return to the NBA, and it’s not hard to see why.

Triple-double watch for South Sudan’s Carlik Jones

Carlik Jones has a double-double already, with 10 assists and 10 rebounds. With nine points, the South Sudanese-American (who has just 12 career NBA games spread across three seasons) would have a triple-double against Team USA.

With 6:45 to go, it’s 90-84 USA.

81-76 USA, who closes third quarter on 16-0 run

Devin Booker’s long-range three is followed up by a Steph Curry shot from nearly out of bounds, and Team USA has its first lead since the first quarter.

Suddenly it’s all USA, as Shayok finally misses. LeBron James finishes the quarter off with a dish to Joel Embiid, whose layup at the buzzer means the U.S. suddenly has a five-point lead.

A wild third quarter saw Team USA score a whopping 37 points. That’s a statement after a sloppy, disinterested first half.

And-1 after a huge dunk from LeBron

Jrue Holiday’s hustle along the sideline keeps a play alive, and LeBron takes advantage, throwing down a huge dunk despite being fouled.

LeBron flexes, hits the free throw, and suddenly it’s 76-71.

Shayok can’t miss for South Sudan

USA is getting improved effort for sure, but turnovers and transition defense remain issues. South Sudan is taking advantage, with Marial Shayok hitting his fifth three-pointer of the night after yet another Carlik Jones assist.

Despite Team USA stepping it up, with three to go in the third quarter the ‘Bright Stars’ lead by 11.

Team USA chipping away

Team USA had to improve coming out of the locker room, and so far whatever changes were made are working. A 14-4 run in the first 3:45 of this half has turned what was a 14-point deficit into a two-possession game after Bam Adebayo knocks down two free throws.

South Sudan still cooking

Former Baylor Bear Omot cleans up a rebound with a huge dunk on Davis for 11 points on the night.

Team USA gets defensive to start

Anthony Edwards’s block on the perimeter turns into an and-one for Tatum on the other side of the floor. Team USA chipping away at this sizable deficit.

Team USA has new look to start the second half

Anthony Edwards, Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis start the second half with a fresh look to kick things off.

Halftime: South Sudan 58, Team USA 44

An upset is brewing in London, with Team USA looking sluggish and shooting poorly. South Sudan is creating openings to attack in transition, forcing turnovers, and shooting with confidence. This scoreline is no accident.

LeBron James leads the U.S. with 12 points on 5-for-8 shooting. However, the 39-year-old superstar also has a game-high four turnovers, underlining one of Team USA’s several issues in this first half.

South Sudan guard Carlik Jones is the star of the show, with 13 points and 6 assists (including more than one bucket scored by driving right at James).

Team USA is shooting 1-for-12 from three. South Sudan is has seven three for 50% from beyond the arc.

Team USA may have finally woken up

South Sudan has been playing with more energy and precision, but two straight stops on defense have been followed by a LeBron James drive and a Jrue Holiday layup after Devin Booker forced a turnover.

Even with those points, Team USA trails by 11 with a minute to go in the half.

South Sudan up 13 midway through the second

Things have slowed down here after a long review of an out-of-bounds call is followed by a timeout on the floor.

South Sudan is shooting over 57% from the floor, including a gaudy 6-for-13 from three-point range. The U.S., meanwhile, has hit from three just once, and is 10-for-20 inside the arc. It boils down to Team USA getting more low-quality looks, while South Sudan is creating open shots by pushing the tempo in transition.

Team USA goes back to its starters

Steve Kerr has seen enough, bringing his starting five back into the game. That group came out with a lead, but South Sudan is now up by a stunning 15 after Steph Curry misses three-pointers on either side of a USA turnover.

You’re reading that right: it’s 43-28 South Sudan.

South Sudan makes it 6-for-11 from three

South Sudan is shooting the lights out, with Nuni Omot’s three from a full step back from the arc hitting their sixth three-pointer of the day.

It’s 36-28 South Sudan as Team USA misses its next three shots to boot.

Who is Khaman Maluach?

Maluach is a 7-1, 250-pound center who comes by way of the NBA Academy Africa. Domestic fans will see a lot more of him as he has committed to Duke.

He comes in highly touted according to 247Sports and is heralded as the No. 4-ranked player and the No. 1-ranked center in the class. 

Team USA trails South Sudan after first quarter

Despite coming out hot, Team USA has fallen behind South Sudan by two, 26-24.

South Sudan has been pretty sharp from three-point range, while USA has settled for some contested shots that didn’t fall.

South Sudan extends lead despite Adebayo dunk

Bam Adebayo is wide open after USA forces a turnover, and goes up for a powerful dunk.

However, South Sudan replies with a three right away, and with a minute to go in the first quarter, the United States trails 23-19.

New lineup for Team USA

Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, and Jayson Tatum have all checked in for coach Steve Kerr, who made a line change.

However, South Sudan’s last few minutes have been good, and a dunk from 17-year-old Khaman Maluach makes it 18-16 in his side’s favor.

Gabriel helps South Sudan at both ends

Former NBA power forward Wenyen Gabriel just made plays at both ends, draining a three before drawing a foul through some quick defensive footwork.

Marial Shayok drains a three shortly thereafter, and South Sudan is down by two…until Steph Curry nails a characteristic off-balance three.

USA off to a fast start

Team USA is wasting no time taking charge of this exhibition. It’s 10-2 within the first three minutes, with the U.S. finishing multiple possessions off with statement dunks.

That includes one from LeBron James in transition.

USA vs. South Sudan: Time, TV, streaming and how to watch

Date: Saturday, July 20Time: 3 p.m. ETLocation: The O2 Arena, LondonTV: FOXStreaming: Fox Sports app; fuboTV; YouTube TV

Paris 2024 Olympics Men’s 5×5 basketball groups

Group A:

AustraliaGreeceCanadaSpain

Group B:

FranceGermanyJapanBrazil

Group C:

SerbiaSouth SudanPuerto RicoU.S.

Remaining USA Basketball Showcase schedule

July 22: USA vs. Germany, 3 p.m. ET, Fox, London

Team USA men’s basketball roster

Bam Adebayo, Miami HeatDevin Booker, Phoenix SunsSteph Curry, Golden State WarriorsAnthony Davis, Los Angeles LakersKevin Durant, Phoenix SunsAnthony Edwards, Minnesota TimberwolvesJoel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ersTyrese Haliburton, Indiana PacersJrue Holiday, Boston CelticsLeBron James, Los Angeles LakersJayson Tatum, Boston CelticsDerrick White, Boston Celtics

South Sudan men’s basketball roster

Junior Madu, Tasmania JackJumpersNuni Omot, Taichung SunsCarlik Jones, Partizan Mozzart BetKhaman Maluach, AS DouanesKuany Kuany, Keilor ThunderMarial Shayok, Shandong Hi-Speed KirinDeng Acuoth, Knox RaidersMajok Deng, Tasmania JackJumpersPeter Jok, Cholet BasketKoch Bar, Horsens ICWenyen Gabriel, Maccabi Tel AvivSunday Dech, Adelaide 36ers

When are the Paris 2024 Olympics?

The 2024 Paris Olympics start on July 24 and run through August 11.

How can I watch the 2024 Paris Olympics?

TV: Games broadcast across NBC, USA Network, E!, Telemundo, CNBC

Streaming: Peacock, NBCOlympics.com 

USA Basketball Showcase locations

The final two USA Basketball Showcase exhibition games will take place at The O2 Arena in London, United Kingdom. The arena will also welcome the women’s national team on July 23 for an exhibition game against Germany.

Team USA players to know

The star-studded U.S. squad is essentially an NBA all-star team, and includes a trio (Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum, and Derrick White) from the championship-winning Boston Celtics.

Veterans like LeBron James and Steph Curry seem locked in as starters for head coach Steve Kerr, while Tatum made this past season’s All-NBA First Team. Center Anthony Davis, forward Kevin Durant, and guard Anthony Edwards all made the Second Team, and each has the ability to take over any game they’re in.

Joel Embiid, despite some worries over his conditioning, may end up being critical, as he’s the lone seven-footer on the roster for an Olympic games that may be all about dominating in the paint.

South Sudan players to know

Even in Bol Bol’s absence, who cited personal reasons for withdrawing from the South Sudan roster on Friday, a win over Great Britain in London underlines that there are still some strong players ready to play for head coach Royal Ivey (who moonlights as an assistant coach for the Houston Rockets).

Guard Carlik Jones and small forward Marial Shayok starred in that win over Team GB, with Shayok leading South Sudan with 27 points thanks in part to going 4-for-6 from three-point range. Jones chipped in 13 points and a game-best eight assists.

Nebraska-born JT Thor didn’t participate in that warm-up game, but with Bol’s withdrawal, the Phoenix Suns power forward is South Sudan’s lone player on an NBA roster.

Team USA 2024 Paris Olympic Games schedule

The schedule is according to NBCOlympics.com and is subject to change.

Group Stage

July 28: USA vs. Serbia at 11:15 a.m. ET on NBCJuly 31: USA vs. South Sudan at 3 p.m. ET on USA NetworkAug. 3: USA vs. Puerto Rico at 11:15 a.m. ET on NBC

Quarterfinals

Aug. 6: TBD vs. TBD

Semifinals

Aug. 8: TBD vs. TBD

Gold/Bronze Medal games

Aug. 10: TBD vs. TBD

USA women’s basketball Olympics schedule

On the women’s side, action begins on July 29 with an exhibition taking place on July 23.

July 23 – United States vs. Germany: 3 p.m. ET on FS1 (exhibition)July 29 – Women’s Group Phase, Group C: United States vs. Japan: 1 p.m. ET on USA Network, Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.August 1 – Women’s Group Phase, Group C: Belgium vs. United States: 3 p.m. ET on USA Network, Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.August 4 – Women’s Group Phase, Group C: Germany vs. United States: 11:15 a.m. ET on USA Network, Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.August 7 – Women’s Quarterfinals: Games start between 5 a.m. ET – 3:30 p.m. ET on Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.August 9 – Women’s Semifinal: 11:30 p.m. ET or 3 p.m. on NBC, Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.August 11 – Women’s Bronze Medal Game: 5:30 a.m. ET on USA Network, Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.August 11 – Women’s Gold Medal Game: 9:30 a.m. ET on NBC, Peacock and NBCOlympics.com.

How many medals does Team USA basketball have?

The men’s Olympic basketball team has 19 medals, including 16 gold medals. The most recent coming in the 2020 Olympic Games.

Team USA starting lineup

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A windy, damp day at Royal Troon Golf Club saw multiple lead changes in Round 3 of the 2024 Open Championship. Shane Lowry held a two-stroke lead entering Saturday but six bogeys – including five on the back nine – dropped him out of the top spot.

Billy Horschel made the most of Lowry’s struggles in Round 3 to move into the lead at 4-under with a one-stroke advantage over a six-way tie for second. Sam Burns and Thriston Lawrence had the best performances of the day with a 6-under-65 each to move into a tie with Russell Henley, PGA Championship winner Xander Schauffele, Justin Rose, and Daniel Brown in second at 3-under.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is just two strokes behind Horschel. With the top eight golfers separated by just two strokes, there’s plenty to play for Sunday in Round 4. Here’s when they’ll tee off.

British Open tee times for Round 4

All times ET

2:35 a.m. — Darren Fichardt, Andy Ogletree

2:45 a.m. — Luis Masaveu, Young-han Song

2:55 a.m. — Darren Clarke, Tom McKibbin

3:05 a.m. — Ryan Fox, Hideki Matsuyama

3:15 a.m. — Aaron Rai, Rickie Fowler

3:25 a.m. — Tommy Morrison, Corey Conners

3:35 a.m. — Brooks Koepka, Marcel Siem

3:45 a.m. — Jeunghun Wang, Matthieu Pavon

4 a.m. — Thorbjørn Olesen, Jorge Campillo

4:10 a.m. — Matt Fitzpatrick, Richard Mansell

4:20 a.m. — Rasmus Højgaard, Kurt Kitayama

4:30 a.m. — Nicolai Højgaard, Jordan Spieth

4:40 a.m. — Jacob Skov Oleson, Alex Cejka

4:50 a.m. — Phil Mickelson, Robert MacIntyre

5 a.m. — Harris English, Guido Migliozzi

5:10 a.m. — Joaquin Niemann, Mackenzie Hughes

5:25 a.m. — Tom Hoge, Adrian Meronk

5:35 a.m. — Austin Eckroat, Brian Harman

5:45 a.m. — Davis Thompson, Si Woo Kim

5:55 a.m. — Matt Wallace, Abraham Ancer

6:05 a.m. — Max Homa, Jason Day

6:15 a.m. — Sepp Straka, Eric Cole

6:25 a.m. — Emiliano Grillo, Cameron Young

6:35 a.m. — Joe Dean, Ewen Ferguson

6:50 a.m. — Dean Burmester, Patrick Cantlay

7 a.m. — Gary Woodland, Minkyu Kim

7:10 a.m. — Padraig Harrington, Brendon Todd

7:20 a.m. — Calum Scott, Matteo Manassero

7:30 a.m. — Dustin Johnson, Collin Morikawa

7:40 a.m. — Jon Rahm, Alex Noren

7:50 a.m. — Laurie Canter, Chris Kirk

8 a.m. — Sean Crocker, John Catlin

8:15 a.m. — Daniel Hillier, Shubhankar Sharma

8:25 a.m. — Byeong Hun An, Sungjae Im

8:35 a.m. — Matthew Jordan, Justin Thomas

8:45 a.m. — Adam Scott, Shane Lowry

8:55 a.m. — Scottie Scheffler, Daniel Brown

9:05 a.m. — Justin Rose, Xander Schauffele

9:15 a.m. — Russell Henley, Sam Burns

9:25 a.m. — Thriston Lawrence, Billy Horschel

How to watch the 2024 British Open

Round 4: Sunday, July 21

4 a.m.-7 a.m.: Peacock7 a.m.- 2 p.m.: NBC/Peacock

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