The New York Giants’ first-round pick has been on a mission to find a number to begin his pro career, but has been denied at every turn since the pick was made.

After being rebuffed by Lawrence Taylor for No. 56 and Phil Simms’ family for No. 11, the No. 3 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft will don a number that gets the best of both worlds – No. 51.

It’s been a highly-publicized journey thus far for the Penn State product, who first made headlines after expressing his desire to wear Taylor’s retired No. 56.

‘I don’t know, 56 sound real good, but we gotta have a conversation,’ Carter told Bleacher Report after hearing his name called on draft night.

The Hall of Fame linebacker wasn’t a fan of the request, instead suggesting that Carter should create his own legacy.

‘He has to be the player that he is,’ Taylor told ESPN. ‘He can’t be another Lawrence Taylor. Well, he may be better than a Lawrence Taylor, who knows. But he has to make his mark. It’s up to him.’

While Taylor preferred to keep 56 retired, Simms took a different approach.

The two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback said on FanDuel TV that he would be open to unretiring his No. 11 for Carter or fellow rookie, Jaxson Dart.

‘I told some of my friends and people around me, ‘I’d let him have it in a second. Can you just help it a little or make it better?” Simms said. ‘I think it would be a lot of fun. It wouldn’t bother me.’

Carter posted on social media, saying it would be an honor if Simms and his family would allow it. Simms’ family outvoted the quarterback, he told longtime New York Daily News writer Gary Myers, meaning No. 11 will stay retired for the Giants.

The rookie’s selection of an unretired number ensures that he’s working with a blank slate. Now it’s on Carter to make it mean something.

A new ESPN documentary about Katie Meyer, the former Stanford soccer goalie who died by suicide in 2022, brings chilling video to the surface.

“Save – The Katie Meyer Story’’ will air at 11 a.m. ET on ESPN Saturday and stream afterward on ESPN+. Directed by Jennifer Karson-Strauss, the film deftly weaves interviews, video and a wrongful death lawsuit filed by Meyer’s parents against Stanford. In 2022, she was found dead in her dorm room the day after learning she faced possible expulsion for accidentally or intentionally spilling hot coffee on a Stanford football player.

The film opens with footage of Meyer, then captain of the soccer team, sitting next to her father, Steve. It was February 2022, and he had driven to Stanford from the family’s home in Southern California. Katie Meyer had invited him to be the guest on the first episode of her podcast.

“What do you think a lesson is that a person just has to learn on their own?’’ Katie Meyer asks on the podcast, ‘Be The Mentality.’

“Life is not easy, right?’’ her father replies. “… After some type of failure, whether it’s in sports or in schoolwork or your career, then if you just keep grinding and remain open-minded, it may actually be an opportunity to do something else.’’

Meyer died two weeks later. She was 22.

Her parents say they were unaware of the disciplinary matter and, if they had been, that their daughter would be alive today.

Dee Mostofi, Stanford’s assistant vice president for external communications, told USA TODAY Sports the school has not seen ESPN’s documentary so could not comment on it.

‘Katie’s death was a tragedy,” Mostofi said. ‘It was heartbreaking for her family, for everyone who knew her, and for our entire community. Though we continue to respond to the litigation brought by the family, that fact does not diminish our deep sympathy for her loss and our continuing support for everyone impacted in our community.’

The film captures Meyer’s charisma, sheds light on her life and death and delves into her parents’ civil lawsuit, which is set to go to trial in April 2026. The podcast episode was the only one recorded by Meyer.

The lawsuit filed by Meyer’s parents against Stanford

Her parents fault Stanford in their lawsuit. Filed Nov. 23, 2022, with the Santa Clara Superior Court of California, it alleges the disciplinary matter against Meyer was conducted ‘negligently and recklessly.’’

Stanford points to Meyer’s parents. Six days before Meyer was found dead, according to a Stanford legal filing, she rehearsed in front of teachers an oral presentation she would make to the class about her family relationships before she came to Stanford.

“The notes taken of what Katie said reveal Katie’s struggles with her parents and their control and pressure to be perfect,’’ according to Stanford’s answer to the Meyers’ amended complaint filed with the court July 28, 2023.

At one point, Meyer recalls being a sophomore in high school when she was cut from the U.S. national team for players 17-and-under not long before the team competed in the World Cup.

“I was so ashamed and terrified because my entire identity was being that soccer player,’’ she says.

Responds her father about Meyer’s return home after being cut, “For you, your mom’s still making you pancakes in the morning. I’m still giving you bad dad jokes. It is OK, because you don’t want to let that necessarily at that age, at any age really, it’s difficult to not let something like that define.’’

Later, Meyer recalls not being good enough to play as a freshman at Stanford. Responds her father, “I actually thought it was a blessing in disguise,’’ adding he thought it gave her time to get acclimated.

The following year, Meyer’s clutch play helped propel Stanford to the national championship. On the podcast, she recalls running across the field to celebrate with her father.

“And mom,’’ Steve Meyer says.

“And mom,’’ Katie Meyer says. “Mom was there, too.’’

As the podcast wrapped up, Meyer checked her laptop screen to see who had posted questions and comments. Her mom had checked in, and Meyer read the words aloud.

“Hi, my loves.’’

Ex-Stanford star serves as film’s reporter

Julie Foudy, a former Stanford soccer star, serves as the reporter and the face of ESPN in the documentary.

“I am very vociferous about my connection to Stanford and always have been,” Foudy, who played there from 1989 to 1991 and graduated from the university in 1993, told USA TODAY Sports this week. “Love my time there.’’

Her connection to Stanford is not disclosed in the documentary. When asked by USA TODAY Sports whether doing so was discussed, Foudy replied, “We didn’t talk about it.’’

Andy Hall, a director of communications with ESPN, told USA TODAY Sports, “there was a discussion but she wasn’t involved in it’’ and ESPN decided Foudy’s ties to Stanford “did not make a difference in her being the reporter on the story.’’

In the documentary, Foudy asks tough but fair questions of Stanford. The school declined to have representatives appear on camera and responded to questions in writing, according to Foudy. Meyer’s parents were interviewed extensively on camera.

“I get why they didn’t want to get on camera, and I knew that was probably going to be difficult,’’ Foudy said of Stanford. “But yeah, I also knew it was a story that I think was important to tell. And as hard as it was, it’s a story that definitely people needed to hear.’’

Accusations of deceit

The law requires public California colleges and universities to allow students to have an adviser when facing an alleged violation of a student code of conduct. The bill passed unanimously in the California State Assembly, and Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it into law.

Because Stanford is a private school, it does not have to adhere to the law.

But a recent motion filed by the Meyers’ legal team states Katie Meyer had discussed the disciplinary matter with Jennifer Zimbroff, then deputy general counsel for the school’s office of general counsel and a resident fellow in the dorm where Katie Meyer was a resident advisor.

The motion, which includes text messages the plaintiffs say were exchanged between Meyer and Zimbroff, states, “The documented pattern of Ms. Zimbroff’s unethical conduct with Katie demonstrates that her dominant purpose was not providing legal advice to Stanford but rather acting as Katie’s attorney’ (on an unrelated matter) ‘and extracting information from her as an informant. The text messages reveal a calculated strategy of deceit spanning for months leading up to Katie’s death.’’

The Meyers want redacted and withheld communications and documents of Zimbroff, according to the motion.

Stanford’s Mostofi told USA TODAY Sports there is no merit to the assertions made regarding Ms. Zimbroff. Mostofi said Zimbroff never acted as an attorney for Katie Meyer and as a resident fellow ‘cared deeply for Katie and was very supportive of her.”

‘When Ms. Zimbroff learned that Katie was involved in an incident that might lead to a disciplinary proceeding, she informed colleagues in the legal office that she would not be involved in any legal counsel in those proceedings and would continue to support Katie in her resident fellow capacity,” Mostofi added. ‘We believe the mischaracterizations made by the plaintiffs in the latest filing regarding Ms. Zimbroff are false and reckless and we continue to believe that there is no merit to these claims.”

The matter is scheduled to be ruled on later this year, as are other issues before the trial begins.

If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 any time day or night, or chat online. Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.

The Houston Texans traded out of the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft as the New York Giants moved up to secure Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart. In return, the Texans received multiple picks, including the No. 34 overall selection, the second pick of Round 2.

Houston used that pick on offense as they did for much of the draft, selecting Iowa State wide receiver Jayden Higgins. He was the first of six draft picks the Texans spent on offense; Houston selected his former college teammate Jaylin Noel in Round 3.

Higgins signed his rookie contract with the Texans and, in doing so, made draft history: He is the first Round 2 pick to sign a fully guaranteed contract. It’s for four years and $11.7 million, per multiple reports.

Higgins and Noel were on-field on May 9 for the start of Texans rookie minicamp.

The Texans have signed all of their draft picks but Higgins is the only one to receive a fully-guaranteed contract.

Jayden Higgins stats

Higgins started two full seasons for Iowa State after transferring from Eastern Kentucky. Here’s how he did in 2023 and 2024:

2023 (13 games): 53 catches, 983 yards, six touchdowns
2024 (13 games): 87 catches, 1,183 yards, nine touchdowns

Texans WR depth chart

The Texans have a lot of new faces in the wide receiver room after free agency and the draft. This is how things look entering minicamp:

Nico Collins
John Metchie III
Christian Kirk
Tank Dell
Jayden Higgins
Jaylin Noel
Xavier Hutchinson
Justin Watson
Braxton Berrios
Xavier Johnson
Jared Wayne
Johnny Johnson III
Daniel Jackson

The winner of the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes is almost here.

The NBA draft lottery is Monday, and the winner of the lottery is more than likely to use the No. 1 overall pick to select Flagg, who spent his freshman season at Duke in 2024-25 and has long been projected as the top player in this year’s draft class.

Which team needs Flagg the most?

The Utah Jazz (17-65), Washington Wizards (18-64) and Charlotte Hornets (19-63) are going through major rebuilds and could use a player like Flagg to accelerate a turnaround. The Brooklyn Nets, Toronto Raptors, Philadelphia 76ers and New Orleans Pelicans need help, too.

Teams will get a look at Flagg and other prospects at the NBA draft combine next week in Chicago before the draft June 25-26.

Here’s a look at USA TODAY Sports’ pre-combine NBA mock draft (age listed is age at time of the draft):

2025 NBA MOCK DRAFT

1. Cooper Flagg, Duke

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-9, 205, 18 years old
2024-25 stats: 19.2 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 4.2 apg, 1.4 spg, 1.4 bpg, 48.1% FG, 38.5% 3PT, 84% FT

The do-it-all young star led the Blue Devils in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals. Flagg has outstanding footwork, especially in the low post. He can use either hand on shots in the paint, knows how to run plays, can hit catch-and-shoot 3s and is an active weakside defender. Flagg, who added more muscle since the start of the year, is a physical player who initiates contact, is confident and plays with force when necessary. He led Duke to an impressive season, which includes the ACC regular-season title, ACC tournament title and Final Four appearance. He had 30 points, seven assists and six rebounds in a regional semifinal victory against Arizona and 16 points and nine rebounds in a regional final against Alabama. Flagg had 27 points, seven rebounds, three blocks and two steals in a Final Four loss to Houston.

2. Dylan Harper, Rutgers

Freshman, guard, 6-6, 215, 19
2024-25 stats: 19.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 4.0 apg, 1.4 spg, 48.4% FG, 33.3% 3PT, 75% FT

The lefty stroke will remind some of Jalen Brunson, but Harper has far more size at 6-6 and tremendous length with a wingspan of 6-foot-10. Harper’s best asset at the next level might be his versatility to run point and play off the ball. In Rutgers’ lone Big Ten tournament game, Harper had 27 points (9-for-21 shooting), eight rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks in a double-overtime loss to Southern California.

3. Ace Bailey, Rutgers

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-10, 200, 18
2024-25 stats: 17.6 ppg, 7.2 rpg, 1.3 apg, 1.3 bpg, 46% FG, 34.6% 3PT, 69.2% FT

Bailey is a hyper-athletic wing with length and size coming into a league that prioritizes players built exactly the way he is with exactly the skill set he has: an effortless and reliable shot and an attack-first mentality with an ability to finish at the rim. Needs to improve as a playmaker on the pass and free throws. But even when offense isn’t easy, he remains active on defense. He had 17 points, seven rebounds, three steals and one block in season-ending loss to USC.

4. VJ Edgecombe, Baylor

Freshman, guard, 6-5, 180, 19
2024-25 stats: 15.0 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 3.2 apg, 2.1 spg, 43.6% FG, 34% 3PT, 78.2% FT

The Bahamian native has displayed his athleticism, has shown he can be explosive and has an elite knack for steals. He will be able to contribute at the NBA level and can be aggressive at the point of attack. The freshman is a high-level off-ball scorer but can improve when it comes to on-ball scoring. Edgecombe logged significant minutes at the end of the season. He had 16 points, six rebounds and one steal in a NCAA tournament second-round loss to Duke.

5. Tre Johnson, Texas

Freshman, guard, 6-6, 190, 19
2024-25 stats: 19.9 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.7 apg, 42.7% FG, 39.7% 3PT, 87.1% FT

Johnson is a natural shooter and scorer. He does well when scoring on the move and is a decent playmaker for his size. He still needs to work on his ability to make plays for others. He must also work on his strength and his explosiveness in order to assert himself as a finisher at the rim. He had three 30-point games in the past two months, including 39 against Arkansas on Feb. 26. He had 23 points and six rebounds in an NCAA tournament loss to Xavier.

6. Jeremiah Fears, Oklahoma

Freshman, guard, 6-4, 182, 18
2024-25 stats: 17.1 ppg, 4.1 apg, 4.1 rpg, 1.6 spg, 43.4% FG, 28.4% 3PT, 85.1% FT

Solid start to his freshman season; quick on the dribble; has strength going to the rim and can finish; operates well in the pick-and-roll as a scorer and passer; needs to improve his 3-point shot but potential is there. Fears scored a season-high 31 points and added five assists and four rebounds in a win against ranked Missouri. Fears had a strong SEC tournament, producing 29 points, six rebounds and five steals plus five turnovers in a victory against Georgia and 28 points, five assists, four rebounds and three steals (just one turnover) in a loss to Kentucky. He generated 20 points, five rebounds and four assists in a NCAA tournament first-round loss to UConn.

7. Kon Knueppel, Duke

Freshman, guard-forward, 6-7, 217, 19
2024-25 stats: 14.4 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 2.7 apg, 47.9% FG, 40.6% 3PT, 91.4% FT

He can ignite an offense with his 3-point shot, thanks to an efficient motion, seemingly always ready to receive the ball in his shooting pocket. He can also lace shots from midrange, take care of the ball and is money on free throws. In the ACC tournament, Knueppel averaged 21 points (28 against Georgia Tech) and shot 48.6% from the field, stepping up with Flagg injured. He averaged 20.5 points and shot 11-for-22 from the field (4-for-6 on 3s) in two regional games. He had 21 points, five rebounds and five assists in an Elite Eight victory against Alabama, and 16 points and seven rebounds in a Final Four loss to Houston.

8. Derik Queen, Maryland

Freshman, center, 6-10, 246, 20
2024-25 stats: 16.5 ppg, 9.0 rpg, 1.9 apg, 1.1 spg, 1.1 bpg, 52.6% FG, 76.6% FT

An active, physical big man, Queen has a soft touch around the rim with either hand but has a power game, too. He can run the court and handle the basketball well for a power forward-center. He is another potential first-round pick with good hands and footwork and has the mechanics to become a shooter who can stretch the floor. Queen had 27 points, five rebounds and two steals in a Sweet 16 loss to eventual champion Florida.

9. Khaman Maluach, Duke

Freshman, center, 7-2, 250, 18
2024-25 stats: 8.6 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 1.3 bpg, 71.2% FG, 76.6% FT

Playing about 20 minutes per game, Maluach is a mobile big who excels in pick-and-rolls and has the hands to catch lobs for easy dunks; soft touch at the rim; shot-blocker/rim protector; active on the offensive glass; will get stronger and has a great aptitude for the game, learning concepts quickly. In four NCAA tournament games, Maluach, who played for South Sudan at the 2024 Paris Olympics, averaged 11.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.0 blocks and shot 86.9% from the field (20-for-23). He had 14 points and nine rebounds in an Elite Eight victory against Alabama. He struggled to make an impact in the Final Four loss to Houston with just six points and no rebounds.

10. Kasparas Jakucionis, Illinois

Freshman, guard, 6-6, 205, 19
2024-25 stats: 15.0 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 4.7 apg, 44% FG, 31.8% 3PT, 84.5% FT

Jakucionis is a playmaker – a scorer and passer. He has range with a nice 3-ball, can shoot off the dribble from deep, including on step-back 3s, and looks for an open teammate when he draws multiple defenders. Jakucionis sees the court well with savvy passes and likes to get to the rim for layups. But he can be turnover-prone. He struggled offensively at the end of the season, shooting 32.5% from the field and committing 24 turnovers in the final four games. He had 16 points, 10 assists and nine rebounds in a first-round NCAA tournament victory against Xavier.

11. Collin Murray-Boyles, South Carolina

Sophomore, forward, 6-8, 245, 20
2024-25 stats: 16.8 ppg, 8.3 rpg, 2.4 agp, 1.5 spg, 1.3 bpg, 58.6% FG, 26.5% 3PT, 70.7% FT

Although he’s a bit undersized for a power forward, Murray-Boyles plays with intense effort and determination, which will very quickly please his NBA coaches. He also has plenty of strength to finish at the rim and was the SEC’s No. 3 rebounder. Murray-Boyles had 35 points and seven rebounds against Arkansas late in the regular season and had 20 points and 12 rebounds in a loss to Arkansas in the SEC tournament.

12. Jase Richardson, Michigan State

Freshman, guard, 6-3, 185, 19
2024-25 stats: 12.1 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 1.9 apg, 49.3% FG, 41.2% 3PT, 83.6% FT
Richardson improved as the season progressed and turned into the Spartans’ steady hand with the basketball as a shooter (inside and out) and facilitator. He is an active defender with surprising bouts of athleticism. He also has a knack for collecting rebounds, big plays and poise under pressure. He had an up-and-down NCAA tournament in four games – 5-for-11 shooting and 15 points against Bryant, 1-for-10 shooting against New Mexico, 20 points on 6-for-8 shooting against Ole Miss, and 4-for-13 shooting against Auburn.

13. Noa Essengue, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

Forward, 6-10, 198, 18
2024-25 stats: 10.8 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 1.1 apg, 51.6% FG, 27% 3PT, 70.5% FT

The next forward with elite finishing ability to come out of France, Essengue figures to be more of a developmental prospect, but his size, instincts at the rim and plus-defensive ability could make him a star if he bulks up.

14. Egor Demin, BYU

Freshman, forward, 6-9, 19
2024-25 stats: 10.3 ppg, 5.4 apg, 3.8 rpg, 1.2 spg, 41% FG, 27.1% 3PT, 67.5% FT

The Russian is a playmaker who can make quick decisions and facilitate for others. Demin is the size of a wing player but has guard-like skills. On defense, he uses his length to his advantage while forcing turnovers and being active in passing lanes. His shooting efficiency is a concern. Demin had difficulty with his offense as the season progressed. He had just three points with four turnovers, three assists and three rebounds in a Big 12 conference tournament victory against Iowa State and six points on 2-for-9 shooting (1-for-7 on 3s) with four assists and five turnovers in a conference tournament loss to Houston. In three NCAA tournament games, he averaged 13.7 points, 5.7 assists and 4.7 rebounds and was 15-for-35 from the field.

15. Asa Newell, Georgia

Freshman, forward, 6-11, 220, 19
2024-25 stats: 15.4 ppg, 6.9 rpg, 1.0 spg, 1.0 bpg, 54.3% FG, 29.2% 3PT, 74.8% FT

Based off of his size, Newell wouldn’t appear to be as quick and fluid as he is, which should make him an instant threat in pick-and-roll situations. He was one of the lone bright spots for the Bulldogs in a loss against No. 1 Auburn with a team-high 20 points. His scoring dipped at the end of the regular season, however, he had 20 points and eight rebounds in a first-round NCAA tournament loss to Gonzaga.

16. Liam McNeeley, UConn

Freshman, forward, 6-7, 210, 19
2024-25 stats: 14.5 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 2.3 apg, 38.1% FG, 31.7% 3PT, 86.6% FT

What McNeeley may lack in fluid athleticism, he more than makes up for with a smooth, natural shot and knack for drawing fouls and getting to the free throw line. He also has a quick release and plenty of range to suggest that he should get early minutes. He bounced back since suffering an ankle injury New Year’s Day that had sidelined him for a few weeks. McNeeley struggled with his shot at times down the stretch. In a Big East tournament loss to Creighton, McNeeley had 13 points on 6-for-20 shooting (0-for-5 on 3-pointers), and in two NCAA tournament games, he was 8-for-29 from the field, including 3-of-16 on 3s.

17. Nolan Traore, Saint-Quentin (France)

Guard, 6-4, 175, 19
2024-25 stats: 12 ppg, 4.8 apg, 1.9 rpg, 40.9% FG, 31.4% 3PT, 72.8% FT

Traore is a point guard who can score and pass and has court awareness but also a propensity for bad turnovers. He’s quick, can get to the rim and is comfortable taking his defender off the dribble. Needs to work on his shooting efficiency, especially on 3s. His brother, Armel, was on a two-way contract with the Los Angeles and South Bay Lakers before being waived in February.

18. Carter Bryant, Arizona

Freshman, forward, 6-8, 225, 19
2024-25 stats: 6.5 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.0 apg, 1.0 bpg, 46% FG, 37.1% 3PT, 69.5% FT

The athletic forward provides a solid combination of strength and fluidity. He has lateral quickness to stay in front of the ball and the ability to block shots. He can still improve on his technique as a finisher and in scoring efficiency. He will get an increased opportunity to impress scouts and executives at the draft combine. Bryant scored 12 points and collected five rebounds and three blocks in 20 minutes in a victory against Akron in the NCAA tournament.

19. Thomas Sorber, Georgetown

Freshman, forward-center, 6-10, 255, 19
2024-25 stats: 14.5 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 2.4 apg, 2.0 spg, 53.2% FG, 72.4% FT

The standout freshman required surgery to repair a foot injury suffered Feb. 15 and missed the rest of the season. Sorber is a stellar inside threat who’s just as comfortable cutting to the basket on pick-and-rolls as he is backing down opponents. His rebounding and rim protection will make him an asset, as he continues to grow into his frame.

20. Danny Wolf, Michigan

Junior, forward-center, 7-0, 250, 21
2024-25 stats: 13.2 ppg, 9.7 rpg, 3.6 apg, 1.4 bpg, 49.7% FG, 33.6% 3PT, 59.4% FT

The Yale transfer is shooting up draft boards thanks to his fluid scoring and play-making portfolio in the package of a 7-foot stretch big. Wolf played point guard at times this season for the Wolverines just like he played center. His handles make him a threat as the initiator in pick-and-roll actions and his range should translate to the NBA. Wolf had 21 points and 14 rebounds against Maryland in the Big Ten tournament semifinals and shot 52.9% from the field as the Wolverines won the conference tourney. He had 20 points and six rebounds in a NCAA regional semifinals loss to Auburn.

21. Nique Clifford, Colorado State

Fifth-year graduate season, guard, 6-6, 200, 23
2024-25 stats: 18.9 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 4.4 apg, 1.2 spg, 49.6% FG, 37.7% 3PT, 77.7% FT

Clifford is a versatile wing who does multiple things – scoring, rebounding, passing and defending. He has a quick burst on drives to the basket and can finish with force or finesse. He logged big minutes for Colorado State and was excellent in the Rams’ final six games before the NCAA tournament, posting 25.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.5 steals and shooting 60% from the field, including 54.8% on 3s. He had 36 points against Boise State at the end of the regular season and recorded two double-doubles in the Mountain West tournament. Clifford had 21 points, seven rebounds, six assists and two blocks in an NCAA tournament second-round loss to Maryland.

22. Joan Beringer, KK Cedevita (Adriatic League)

Forward-center, 6-10, 230, 18
2024-25 stats: 5.0 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 1.4 bpg, 61.5% FG, 58.4% FT

Beringer has gained traction among NBA scouts and executives as a mobile big man who can run the pick-and-roll as a screener on offense and guard the pick-and-roll. He doesn’t have a lot of experience but his potential, especially as a rim protector, has made him a first-round prospect. Another player who has improved throughout the season.

23. Ben Saraf, Ratiopharm Ulm (Germany)

Guard, 6-6, 200, 19
2024-25 stats: 12.2 ppg, 4.3 apg, 2.6 rpg, 1.2 spg, 45.5% FG, 28.6% 3PT, 72.7% FT

He’s just as comfortable knocking down a step-back jumper, finding creases in the paint and dishing the ball with excellent vision. He may need some time to develop as he adjusts to NBA athletes, but his length and size at point guard will make him an intriguing prospect.

24. Will Riley, Illinois

Freshman, forward, 6-8, 195, 19

2024-25 stats: 12.6 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 2.2 apg, 43.2% FG, 32.6% 3PT, 72.4% FT

Great size for a shooting guard who can make 3s and find open teammates. Like many, looks for offensive rebounds. Like many young players, his shot is a work in progress but the mechanics are there and he improved as a shooter and scorer as the season progressed, shooting 37-for-72 (51.4%) from the field and averaging 16.3 points in the Illini’s final six games

25. Rasheer Fleming, Saint Joseph’s

Junior, forward, 6-9, 240, 20
2024-25 stats: 14.75 ppg, 8.5 rpg, 1.5 bpg, 1.4 spg, 1.3 apg, 53.1% FG, 39% 3PT, 74.3% FT

Fleming is a mobile forward who plays a physical game and has strong footwork to finesse his way around defenders. He likes to get easy buckets in transition, his 3-point percentage in nearly five attempts per game is encouraging and he is valuable in pick-and-rolls as the screener. Defensively, he deflects passes and can protect the rim. Fleming averaged 18.8 points and 7.7 rebounds and shot 58.9% in the last six regular-season Atlantic 10 Conference contests.

26. Walter Clayton Jr., Florida

Senior, guard, 6-3, 195, 22
2024-25 stats: 18.3 ppg, 4.2 apg, 3.7 rpg, 1.2 spg, 44.8% FG, 38.6% 3PT, 85.7% FT

Named the Most Outstanding Player of the Final Four, Clayton had 34 points in the national semifinals against Auburn and 11 points, seven assists and five rebounds in the championship victory against Houston. He also scored 30 points in a regional final against Texas Tech and was 21-for-42 from the field in the Gators’ final three games. Has range on 3-point shots and can shoot off the dribble or pass but needs to improve as a playmaker and defender.

27. Hugo Gonzalez, Real Madrid (Spain)

Guard-forward, 6-7, 207, 19
2024-25 stats: 3.2 ppg, 1.7 rpg, 41% FG, 28.1% 3PT, 73.9% FT

One of Europe’s top young NBA prospects, Gonzalez is a versatile wing with the ability to score inside and out. He can handle the basketball, pass and is a surprising shot-blocker. He’s still raw.

28. Yaxel Lendeborg, UAB

Senior, forward, 6-9, 240, 22
2024-25 stats: 17.7 ppg, 11.4 rpg, 4.2 agp, 52.2% FG, 35.7% 3PT, 75.7% FT

Lendeborg is active defensively, likes to attack in transition and is active in the paint. He cuts to the rim and looks for the ball. Possesses good size and strength for his position and initiates contact. His shooting percentage inside and outside the 3-point line (specifically as catch-and-shoot on 3s) are good signs for the forward from Puerto Rico. Depending on his draft evaluation, Lendeborg, the 2024-25 American Athletic Conference player of the year, could end up at Michigan for another season of college basketball.

29. Noah Penda, Le Mans (France)

Forward, 6-8, 225, 20
2024-25 stats: 10.2 ppg, 5.1 rpg, 2.7 apg, 1.3 spg, 45.8% FG, 34.7% 3PT, 67.9% FT

A solidly-built wing, Penda may not be the most explosive athlete, but he has flashed excellent footwork in the low block, has steady enough ball-handling abilities and can knock down 3s with relative efficiency. Penda has also shown that he can move well without the ball, often slashing through a defense on cuts for easy buckets. Improved as a shooter and scorer as the season progressed.

30. Kam Jones, Marquette

Senior, guard, 6-5, 205, 23
2024-25 stats: 19.2 ppg, 5.9 apg, 4.5 rpg, 1.4 spg, 48.3% FG, 31.1% 3PT, 64.8% FT

All-Big East first-team selection, Jones is a strong, physical guard who can finish on drives to the rim, possesses solid footwork and isn’t afraid of contact. He improved as a playmaker/passer this season and is a solid rebounder with at least 10 five-plus rebound games. The left-hander had a dip in his 3-point shooting percentage this season but has shown the ability to make them off the dribble and on catch-and-shoots as a career 37% shooter from deep. Jones was solid in the Big East tournament with 28 points (11-for-22 shooting, 5-for-10 on 3s), five assists and four rebounds in a victory against Xavier and 24 points (3-for-12 on 3s) and seven rebounds in a loss to St. John’s. He had 15 points, five rebounds and five assists in a NCAA tournament first-round loss to New Mexico.

NEW DELHI, May 9 (Reuters) – India’s cricket board said it had suspended the Indian Premier League (IPL) tournament on Friday as fighting escalated with neighbouring Pakistan, halting play in the sport’s richest tournament two weeks before the end of the season.

Board members were particularly concerned about the safety of players and whether it was appropriate for such events to take place during the conflict, a source with direct knowledge of the decision told Reuters.

‘The idea is very clear – it is not appropriate at this time to continue IPL,’ said the source, who asked not to be named.

The suspension would take place ‘with immediate effect for one week,’ the IPL wrote in a social media post, confirming an earlier Reuters story.

‘The decision was taken by the IPL Governing Council after due consultation with all key stakeholders following the representations from most of the franchisees, who conveyed the concern and sentiments of their players, and also the views of the broadcaster, sponsors and fans,’ the IPL said.

The suspension will come as a setback for a Reliance-Disney joint venture which has broadcast rights for the matches, and also scores of companies that have committed millions of dollars for advertising. The suspension means the Indian cricket board and team franchisees will lose some revenues which are linked to match days, the source said.

India and Pakistan have been locked in conflict since Wednesday, when India targeted multiple locations in Pakistan, saying they were ‘terrorist infrastructure’, following a deadly attack in Indian Kashmir last month.

New Delhi named two Pakistani nationals as suspects and accused Islamabad of being involved in the attack, a charge Pakistan denied and sought an independent probe.

India’s army said Pakistan’s armed forces carried out ‘multiple attacks’ using drones and other munitions across the entire western border on Thursday night and early Friday, a claim Pakistan denied.

The tournament began its current season on March 22, and the final fixture was scheduled to be played on May 25, with matches being spread over 13 venues around the country.

Thursday’s IPL match was abandoned midway after fighting broke out in India’s border regions. The cricket board attributed that disruption to a power failure at the stadium in the hill city of Dharamsala.

After striking the $8.5-billion media merger with Walt Disney last year, Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance was targeting small businesses and promoting unconventional neuroscience studies to boost its revenues from the IPL.

Draymond Green picked up his fifth technical foul of the playoffs during the Golden State Warriors’ 117-93 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday night in Game 2 of their NBA playoffs second-round series.

Green’s latest technical came via a review, after he caught Minnesota big man Naz Reid in the head with his elbow during the second quarter. The call left him incensed and he let the refs know about it, with teammates, including Stephen Curry, trying to calm Green down. Coach Steve Kerr removed Green from the game and he did not return for 6 minutes of game time.

Afterwards, Green was incensed about the perception people have of him, saying he was sick of the ‘agenda to try to keep making me look like an angry Black man.’

‘… I’m not an angry Black man,’ Green said in the locker room, via a video shared by The Athletic. ‘I’m a very successful, educated Black man with a great family. And I’m great at basketball, I’m great at what I do.

‘The agenda to try to keep making me look like an angry Black man is crazy. I’m sick of it. It’s ridiculous.’

Nine games into the playoffs, Green is now two technical fouls from earning an automatic suspension. He has been suspended six times, most recently ‘for striking (then) Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkić in the face,’ in 2023.

Kerr spoke about Green’s Thursday night outburst and the fine line Green walks.

“It’s part of Draymond,” Kerr said. “The same thing that makes him such a competitor and a winner puts him over the top sometimes. We know that, and it’s our job to try and help him stay poised, stay composed. But the competition is so meaningful to him occasionally he goes over the line.”

This story has been updated with new information.

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Vegas Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy was upset by an unpenalized trip that forced defenseman Brayden McNabb out of the game not long before the Edmonton Oilers scored in overtime Thursday night.

‘(The referee is) looking at it, He blew it. He missed the call. I don’t know what else to say,’ Cassidy said. ‘It’s a can opener. It’s a dangerous play. It’s all those things.

‘But it didn’t get called so you have to keep playing. Nabber is probably one of the most popular teammates in the room, so that is a tough part of playing through it. It’s not as easy as it looks. We’re human.’

Seventeen seconds after McNabb left the game on the Viktor Arvidsson play, Connor McDavid fed Leon Draisaitl for the winning goal at 15:20. The Oilers won 5-4 and have a 2-0 series lead on the Golden Knights.

‘It stings to lose that way,’ Cassidy said.

The Golden Knights, who rallied from a 4-2 deficit to tie the game, had to kill off a five-minute major penalty in overtime after Nicolas Roy cross-checked Trent Frederic in the face.

Game 3 is Saturday in Edmonton, where the Oilers are 3-0 in the playoffs.

Cassidy didn’t know McNabb’s status after the game.

After so many title changes and stunning victories at WrestleMania 41, could more shocking moments be in store at Backlash?

It’s tough to envision titles changing hands at the first premium live event following WrestleMania − especially for championships that were just contested at WWE’s grand spectacle three weeks ago − but it has happened before, meaning the window is open in St. Louis. The card may not seem like an all-star event, but the five matches scheduled have potential for compelling storytelling.

Could Randy Orton provide a shocking upset in his hometown when he faces John Cena for likely the last time? Will Lyra Valkyria pull off another big victory against Becky Lynch? Can Pat McAfee hang with Gunther?

USA TODAY Sports’ wrestling experts provide their predictions for WWE Backlash:

Pat McAfee vs. Gunther predictions

Jordan Mendoza: There will be plenty of interest in how McAfee does in his first match since 2023 (the 2024 Royal Rumble certainly doesn’t count). McAfee will get some shots in to spark some belief he can beat Gunther. However, Gunther’s skill is miles ahead of McAfee and it’s unlikely the commentator poses any real threat. Plus, he can’t afford a loss after what happened at WrestleMania. ‘The Ring General’ puts McAfee away in crushing fashion, resulting in the former NFL punter taking some time away to recover from the lengthy assault. Winner: Gunther.

Richard Morin: Gunther’s image took a major hit when he tapped out to his own signature submission at the hands of Jey Uso, losing the World Heavyweight Championship in the process. WWE needs to get Gunther some heat and this is the way to do it − by beating the absolute snot out of McAfee. Winner: Gunther.

James H. Williams: Pat McAfee getting back in the ring may attract additional viewers to the production but I don’t expect him to come away with a victory. While it makes for an interesting pairing considering McAfee’s time out of the ring, look for Gunther to pick his momentum back up and rebound after losing the title at WrestleMania. Winner: Gunther.

Women’s Intercontinental Championship match: Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch predictions

Jordan Mendoza: Major props to Lynch for bringing some spark to a title that desperately needed it. Valkyria is magnificent in the ring, but she hadn’t given much substance to the championship until this feud. It’s lit a spark in her that could maybe elevate her, although putting the title on Lynch would definitely help the prestige. Historically, everything points to Lynch dethroning the inaugural champion since the title wasn’t defended at WrestleMania. However, Valkyria gets some help from Bayley to retain her title. Winner: Lyra Valkyria.

Richard Morin: It’s great to see some real drama building around the women’s mid-card titles. Lynch turning on her former protege gives this match plenty of intrigue, but can ‘The Man’ dethrone the inaugural champ? Don’t be surprised if Bayley, who Lynch attacked before WrestleMania 41, crashes the party and costs Lynch the win. It could all build up to a triple-threat for the title down the road. Winner: Lyra Valkyria.

James H. Williams: Becky Lynch made her return at WrestleMania as Lyra Valkyria’s tag team partner, but things got derailed quickly when they lost the title at Raw the following night. While I think Lynch holding the title in the future would be great for the prestige building of the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, I think the title will stay with Valkyria for the time being. Look for Valkyria to get revenge against her fellow countrywoman. Winner: Lyra Valkyria.

Intercontinental Championship match: Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Penta predictions

Jordan Mendoza: One thing to watch in this rematch will be the crowd reactions. Penta is a crowd favorite, but Mysterio has been significantly pushed by the audience. Penta will definitely bring out the best in Mysterio, who certainly still has his best ahead of him. It’s almost a lock to expect The Judgment Day to play a role in this, the same way it did in the first matchup, and it’s enough for Mysterio to retain. The only question is whether Finn Balor finally snaps afterward and attacks the champion. Winner: Dominik Mysterio.

Richard Morin: This was an interesting late addition to the card. Mysterio and Penta already went 1-on-1 for the title a couple of weeks ago on Raw, with Mysterio retaining the title thanks to help from The Judgement Day. It feels like there is still unfinished business with Dirty Dom as champion with Finn Balor yet to turn on Mysterio. It would also leave Penta in an awkward spot having suffered back-to-back defeats to Mysterio and multiple failed attempts at the title. My best guess is El Grande Americano shows up and attacks Penta, creating a legitimate feud there and allowing The Judgement Day storyline to progress. Winner: Dominik Mysterio.

James H. Williams: Dominik Mysterio received one of the biggest reactions during WrestleMania weekend when he won the Intercontinental Championship. While Penta has become a fan favorite, I don’t think Mysterio will be losing any time soon, especially with a majority of The Judgement Day’s support. Finn Balor remains the wildcard as he was the person Mysterio pinned to win the title. Winner: Dominik Mysterio.

Fatal four-way match for United States Championship: Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Damian Priest vs. LA Knight predictions

Jordan Mendoza: Lots of subplots that will certainly be focused on in this match. All of the competitors are worthy of holding a mid-card title, but it doesn’t feel like the right time for some of them. LA Knight just lost the title and Priest is trying to regroup following his WrestleMania loss. McInytre has the best chance to dethrone, but Fatu is on a roll right now that can’t be stopped. Winner: Jacob Fatu.

Richard Morin: It’s obvious the addition of former world champions McIntyre and Priest is a device to legitimatize Fatu, who defeated Knight for the title at WrestleMania 41. Fatu is a rising star who will showcase his incredible in-ring skills against some of the other top performers in WWE. The only question is whether Solo Sikoa turns on his cousin, or if Fatu turns on him first. Winner: Jacob Fatu

James H. Williams: This match has the opportunity to steal the show this weekend. Jacob Fatu appears to be the favorite to retain the title, but when you have a match that features former world champions and the current champion doesn’t have to get pinned to lose the title, anything can happen. Look for Fatu to put on a performance and overcome the brawling style of his opponents to walk out as champion. Winner: Jacob Fatu

Undisputed WWE Championship match: John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton predictions

Jordan Mendoza: Expect an unreal atmosphere for this match. Two icons of a generation meeting for the final time will spark tons of nostalgia. While there will be several callbacks to their past matchups, don’t expect the prettiest display from Orton and Cena. With the event in St. Louis, Orton will certainly get very close to capturing the title. But in the end, Cena sneaks his way past Orton thanks to some cheap shot to send the crowd home unhappy and continue his journey to ‘ruin wrestling’ in his final year. Winner: John Cena.

Richard Morin: Once more unto the breach, dear friends. The legendary rivals are set to face off for ‘what could be the final time,’ according to WWE. The key word being ‘could,’ as I wouldn’t be surprised if all this match does is set up another Cena-Orton clash later this year. Don’t expect much of a wrestling showcase in this one but do expect some shenanigans to occur. I think we get another appearance from Travis Scott, who could cheap shot Orton and give him a lengthy in-storyline injury for some time off. Then we get a dramatic return later this year for Orton to get even with Cena one last time. For now, though, it’s fein, fein, fein, fein-fein-fein. Winner: John Cena

James H. Williams: WWE has shoved us back into a time machine to restore the rivalry between John Cena and Randy Orton. With both men still having the ability to tell a good story, there should be plenty of interest in how this one plays out. While Orton will likely have most of the crowd support as a St. Louis native, I think Cena finds a way to stay on top and retain the title. The only question is, how will it happen? Will Travis Scott or The Rock find a way to get involved again? Winner: John Cena