Survival comes in many forms.

Perhaps you are stranded on an island without the television production crew from CBS’ hit show. Or maybe there’s something bigger at stake. Maybe it’s just about getting through the grocery store without fighting someone for a loaf of bread.

Or maybe, just maybe, you’re trying to survive the 2025 NFL season.

After a slow start to the year, survivor pools have come under attack as big favorites fall left and right. It’s an unavoidable reality in this ‘any given Sunday’ life we live.

The pendulum swings and obstacles arise, but some sound strategy and a little bit of luck goes a long way. Luckily for us, the NFL Week 5 slate promises to be a good one that’s littered with opportunity.

While you survive another day on this floating rock in space, allow us to guide you through another week of NFL action. Here are the best survivor picks for Week 5.

NFL survivor picks Week 5

Indianapolis Colts (vs. Las Vegas Raiders)

The Pete Carroll experiment in Vegas hasn’t yielded the results that many expected. Geno Smith has been a turnover machine and it took three weeks for Chip Kelly to finally let Ashton Jeanty stand how he wants. Vegas is coming off a heartbreaking loss to the Bears, who blocked the game-winning field goal attempt.

Meanwhile, the Colts are rolling through the early part of the year and were one stop away from being 4-0. Daniel Jones has been everything Shane Steichen could’ve asked for and more. Back at home, the Colts get the job done.

Dallas Cowboys (at New York Jets)

Dallas is only favored by a field goal in this game, perhaps making them a risky pick in Week 5. However, Dak Prescott is back to his old ways and the Cowboys offense is dominating. After posting 40 points against a solid Packers defense last week, they get the generous Jets this time around. Steve Wilks’ defense looks like it’s been operating with two players on the field through the first month, rather than the standard 11.

The Cowboys might put up 40 more in this game and the Jets offense – even against a leaky Dallas defense – won’t have the ability to keep up.

Arizona Cardinals (vs. Tennessee Titans)

It feels bad to keep picking on Cam Ward and the Titans, but they haven’t shown the ability to win games – or really even come close. They have lost by at least two scores in each of the last three weeks and now travel to the desert for a matchup with a rested Cardinals group.

Arizona is far from inspiring as a team, but they shouldn’t struggle to claim victory here.

Detroit Lions (at Cincinnati Bengals)

The Lions were considered frauds after their Week 1 blowout loss to the Packers. Dan Campbell’s team has done nothing but dominate in the time since and Week 5 should be no different.

What team should you pick in NFL survivor pools this week?

The Dallas Cowboys.

It hasn’t been an easy road these last few weeks, especially with some major upsets being sprinkled in. We already trusted the Cowboys in Week 2, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put your faith in them if Brian Schottenheimer’s team is an option.

Dallas is far too talented on offense and New York’s defense too big of a liability. As frustration grows within the Jets fanbase, you can expect MetLife Stadium to feel like a Cowboys’ home game, meaning we don’t even have to worry about them being on the road.

Aaron Glenn’s Jets have continued to find ways to lose, beating themselves and now have a short week to go with it. Trust the best unit in the game to get the job done.

The Cowboys roll in Week 5.

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The Sphere in Las Vegas will display a FIFA World Cup first.

The Sphere, a unique spherical entertainment and concert venue known for its captivating images and state-of-the-art technology, will feature all of the Adidas World Cup balls in history, stirring up excitement as the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament is now only eight months away.

Known as the world’s largest LED screen, with a stunning 16k resolution that creates a wrap-around visual experience, The Sphere has partnered up with Adidas ahead of the World Cup that will be hosted in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Sphere will project every Adidas-created World Cup ball, starting with the first FIFA World Cup ball, which was introduced in 1970 during the tournament hosted in Mexico. In addition to FIFA World Cup balls of the past, Adidas will also officially display the 2026 match ball at the end of the presentation.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will start on June 11, 2026, in Mexico and will conclude on Sunday, July 19, 2026, in New York. This will be the first World Cup to be hosted across three countries.

When is the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is set to occur from June 11 to July 19. The tournament will kick off with its first game in Mexico and will culminate with the FINALSin New York City.

Shop 2026 World Cup Finals tickets

Emeka Egbuka leads the early-season NFL rookie rankings after stepping into a leading role for the Buccaneers’ offense.
Tyler Warren and Tetairoa McMillan aren’t far behind as they help lift their own respective passing attacks.
Jihaad Campbell and Carson Schwesinger are the biggest standouts of the rookie defensive crop.

Life for an NFL rookie is never as easy as a handful of outliers make it seem.

In recent years, the league has seen a select few first-year players spring to star status almost instantaneously, with Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers last year becoming the latest to find immediate success. But for the overwhelming majority of those breaking into the professional ranks, an extensive adjustment period is a necessity.

That’s certainly held true for the top picks from the 2025 NFL draft in the opening weeks of the season. Tennessee Titans quarterback and No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward has had his frustrations with an 0-4 group boil over. Travis Hunter, meanwhile, hasn’t been able to grab a toehold at either wide receiver or cornerback as the Jacksonville Jaguars continue to utilize a unique ironman approach for the No. 2 choice. And while he has come on strong lately, New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter hasn’t wrecked games with the same consistency that helped make him the No. 3 pick.

But even as many of the top selections have made more muted transitions into the league, several of their less-heralded peers have made significant dents with their contributions through the first four weeks. With plenty of time left to turn things for things to shift, here are our top 10 rookies of the 2025 season so far:

2025 NFL rookie rankings

1. Emeka Egbuka, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

When the Buccaneers selected Egbuka with the No. 19 pick, many envisioned Ohio State’s all-time leader in receptions would only make limited early contributions to an offense that already featured Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and second-year receiver Jalen McMillan. Then Egbuka wowed throughout the summer, and he’s been nothing short of essential to Tampa Bay’s fortunes ever since. Not only does Egbuka lead all rookies with 282 receiving yards, he has delivered a rash of big plays from Day 1, including when he snagged the game-winning score in his two-touchdown debut. Since then, he also has reeled in a pair of dazzling catches in the Buccaneers’ late escape against the New York Jets and a 77-yard touchdown catch-and-run against the Philadelphia Eagles. Even with Godwin having returned from his early-season absence and Evans likely not out for too much longer, Egbuka shouldn’t lose his status as a critical target for Baker Mayfield. So long as he remains a central figure in the offense and cleans up his drops, Egbuka figures to be in strong position for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

2. Tyler Warren, TE, Indianapolis Colts

Warren beats out the field for the runner-up spot to Egbuka for one reason: He’s perhaps the only other rookie who was fundamental to his team’s September success. From mixing in at fullback as well as out wide or in the slot to taxing defenses as both a run blocker and pass catcher, the No. 14 pick out of Penn State has unlocked a world of possibilities for Shane Steichen. That freedom has been a central component of Daniel Jones flourishing in an attack pacing the NFL at 6.5 yards per play. His contributions, however, aren’t limited to affording schematic flexibility, as he also leads all players at his position with 263 receiving yards. A tight end has never won Offensive Rookie of the Year since the merger, but Warren has a legitimate chance to end the drought.

3. Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Carolina Panthers

McMillan has been somewhat overshadowed by Egbuka, his divisional foe who has had more moments in the limelight in a far more prosperous offense. But the No. 8 pick is tied with Egbuka for the rookie lead in receptions with 18 and is only 4 yards behind the Bucs standout with 278. His stats would look even better if not for a few recent misfires in the deep passing game, for which quarterback Bryce Young has taken responsibility. The 6-5, 212-pounder has answered at least a portion of the rampant pre-draft questions about his ability to beat man coverage, shaking cornerbacks in the intermediate area with a fluidity seldom seen from players of his size. At a time when many of his other peers are merely seeking to acclimate and earn a role as part of a rotation, McMillan has risen to become a go-to threat for an offense that sorely needs him.

4. Jihaad Campbell, LB, Philadelphia Eagles

The No. 31 overall pick put together one of the most outstanding debuts of any player in the season-opening win over the Dallas Cowboys, and he hasn’t slowed much since. The former Alabama standout has slotted next to Zack Baun and done plenty to make the All-Pro proud, displaying a rare coverage range for a 6-3, 235-pound defender. Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving burned him for a 72-yard catch-and-run last week, but Campbell bounced back by intercepting a fourth-quarter throw to the end zone by Baker Mayfield to help snuff Tampa Bay’s comeback bid. Having worked as an edge rusher prior to playing for the Crimson Tide, he’s still finding his way in diagnosing plays and taking on blocks. But it sure seems like Howie Roseman has struck it big in the draft yet again.

5. Armand Membou, OT, New York Jets

If you’re looking for a bright spot for the 0-4 Jets, here it is. On a team that has regularly been discombobulated and out of position, the No. 7 pick has been the picture of composure. And when you can handle the likes of T.J. Watt and Bradley Chubb, you know you’re off to a good start. With a 94% pass-block win rate that ranks seventh among all offensive tackles, according to ESPN, Membou is already not far behind some elite company. His punishing presence in the ground game has also carried over with an 83% run-block win rate that is tied for fourth at his position. Staying in control was the hallmark of Membou’s game, and the 6-4, 332-pound blocker has far exceeded even the loftiest expectations amid a suboptimal set of circumstances.

6. Carson Schwesinger, LB, Cleveland Browns

A trying season that has already seen a quarterback change has at least featured some very promising showings from Cleveland’s robust rookie draft class. Though second-round running back Quinshon Judkins and third-round tight end Harold Fannin Jr. have done plenty to position themselves as key pieces for a rebuild, Schwesinger has emerged as a cut above the rest. The former walk-on who became an All-American at UCLA isn’t quite the dynamic playmaker that draft classmate Campbell is, but he leads all rookies with 32 tackles. That’s not just a byproduct of merely ending up near the action, either. Schwesinger has repeatedly snuffed out plays before they got started. Having played 97% of the snaps for the league’s stingiest defense in yards surrendered (222.5 per game), Schwesinger has solidified himself as a mainstay in the middle – possibly for years to come.

7. Jacob Parrish, CB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Egbuka is far from alone in bolstering a key spot for Tampa Bay. Parrish has locked down the nickel role, allowing Tykee Smith to join Antoine Winfield Jr. at safety. The third-rounder from Kansas State has been lights out, staying glued to receivers in regular press looks and allowing just 66 yards on 12 catches, according to Next Gen Stats. The secret to his success has been a hyperphysical approach that belies his 5-10, 198-pound build, as Parrish has proven himself comfortable working downhill in the run game and as an occasional blitzer.

8. Xavier Watts, S, Atlanta Falcons

As the only first-year player with multiple interceptions through four games, the two-time consensus All-American and third-round pick is rapidly becoming one of this year’s riddles of ‘how did he fall that far in the draft?’ Atlanta is letting Watts do what made him a standout at Notre Dame: patrolling deep so he can attack any attempts at testing him. Alongside his fellow mid-round rookie in nickel Billy Bowman Jr., he’s helped invigorate a Falcons secondary that ranks third in the NFL with just 4.7 yards allowed per dropback. Some hiccups in coverage are inevitable, but Watts is already entrenching himself as a deep-ball deterrent.

9. Omarion Hampton, RB, Los Angeles Chargers

It’s been tough sledding for what seemed to be a promising group of early-round backs, with Ashton Jeanty, TreVeyon Henderson and Quinshon Judkins not being afforded much room to operate by their respective lines. It should come as little surprise that the rookie ball carrier dropped into the most favorable setup has also been the most productive. Hampton is out ahead of the pack with 270 yards, which is good for 12th among all players. But he’s not merely been running free, as his average of 4.1 yards after contact ranks ninth in the NFL, according to Next Gen Stats. Running lanes might be clogged up in the near future with the Chargers reduced to starting both of their backup offensive tackles following Joe Alt’s ankle injury, but Hampton could expand his role in the passing game as a needed safety valve for Justin Herbert on dumpoffs.

10. Jonas Sanker, S, New Orleans Saints

The competition for the final spot was fierce, but Sanker deserves recognition given how vital he’s been in stepping in for a secondary that lost Tyrann Mathieu to retirement on the eve of training camp. The Virginia product was a legitimate pest for Josh Allen last week, hauling in his first career interception and adding three passes defensed. Not bad for a third-round pick who played just one defensive snap in the opener. Sanker has the build (6-0, 206 pounds) and demeanor to grow as a run stopper, but he’s doing his best work in helping make sure a shaky back end – particularly at cornerback – doesn’t get routinely exposed.

Honorable mention

Ashton Jeanty, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
Jacory Croskey-Merritt, RB, Washington Commanders
Elic Ayomanor, WR, Tennessee Titans
Tory Horton, WR, Seattle Seahawks
Harold Fannin Jr., TE, Cleveland Browns
Will Campbell, OT, New England Patriots
Josh Simmons, OT, Kansas City Chiefs
Tate Ratledge, G, Detroit Lions
Grey Zabel, G, Seattle Seahawks
Abdul Carter, LB, New York Giants
Will Johnson, CB, Arizona Cardinals
Andrew Mukuba, S, Philadelphia Eagles

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore is the new front-runner for the Heisman Trophy after a strong performance against Penn State.
Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia and Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza are also ranked among the top three quarterbacks in college football.
Alabama’s Ty Simpson and Georgia Tech’s Haynes King have also delivered impressive performances, leading their teams to key victories.

College football has a new top quarterback and a new leader for the Heisman Trophy.

Sophomore Dante Moore has taken over after his performance in No. 2 Oregon’s double-overtime win against No. 6 Penn State. Playing in the Big Ten’s most hostile road environment, Moore threw for 248 yards and three touchdowns without an interception.

He’s the latest in what has been a rotating cast of quarterback frontrunners since August. After Arch Manning and Cade Klubnik led the way in the preseason, Carson Beck and Fernando Mendoza occupied the top spot until Moore’s breakthrough against the Nittany Lions.

Formerly the starter at UCLA, Moore spent last season learning the Ducks’ system behind Dillon Gabriel. His experience with the Bruins and knowledge of this scheme have lifted Oregon into position behind only No. 1 Ohio State in the US LBM Coaches Poll.

Moore leads the way in this week’s ranking of the best quarterbacks in college football:

1. Dante Moore, Oregon

In many ways, Moore is outplaying the standard set by Gabriel in his one year as Oregon’s starter. Moore has one interception in 134 attempts. He’s averaging 8.9 yards per attempt against Power Four teams. He’s been a valuable runner, gaining 122 yards on 5.1 yards per carry, and used his legs to extend several key gains against Penn State. Moore’s success has been a testament to his talent and Oregon’s forward-thinking succession plan heading into last season.

2. Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt

No. 17 Vanderbilt’s strongest Heisman contender in the modern era, Pavia’s stock will continue to soar should he help pull off a second win against No. 11 Alabama in as many years. The Commodores haven’t done that since 1955-56. The sixth-year senior tied a program record with five passing touchdowns in last weekend’s rout of Utah State. He’s ranked eighth in passing efficiency.

3. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Mendoza drops two spots from last week after tossing his first interception and completing a season-low 56.5% of his attempts in No. 9 Indiana’s 20-15 win against Iowa. He also had two touchdowns and became the first quarterback to average more than 9.4 yards per attempt against the Hawkeyes since Purdue’s David Blough in 2018. Mendoza has already set a high standard less than halfway through his first year with the Hoosiers.

4. Carson Beck, Miami

After struggling in nasty conditions in an ugly win against Florida the last time out for the No. 2 Hurricanes, Beck gets a chance to rebound in a high-profile rivalry matchup with No. 19 Florida State. With three interceptions in his past two games, Beck has to clean up his play to keep Miami on track for the ACC championship game.

5. Ty Simpson, Alabama

Simpson blitzed No. 10 Georgia’s pass defense with a pair of touchdowns through the first minute of the second quarter, setting the tone for a 24-21 win that essentially salvages the Crimson Tide’s season. The first-year starter is up to 1,138 yards and 11 scores without an interception as he grows more comfortable in Kalen DeBoer’s scheme.

6. CJ Carr, Notre Dame

Playing out of the spotlight after No. 21 Notre Dame dropped games to Miami and No. 5 Texas A&M out of the gate, Carr has completed 32 of 42 attempts for 577 yards and six touchdowns in romps over Purdue and Arkansas. The former five-star recruit is one of the brightest young stars in college football.

7. Dylan Raiola, Nebraska

After getting battered by No. 20 Michigan’s pass rush, Raiola had an extra week to get ready for a friendlier matchup against Michigan State’s porous secondary. Look for a big day from an offense that ranks second nationally in completion percentage, 12th in passing touchdowns, 14th in yards per attempt and 11th in efficiency rating.

8. Julian Sayin, Ohio State

Sayin completed 22 of 28 throws for 208 yards and two scores without a turnover in the Buckeyes’ 24-6 win at Washington. While the coaching staff cut Sayin loose in games against Gramling and Ohio, the wins against the Huskies and No. 7 Texas saw OSU lean on a more balanced game plan that should play very well against the best teams in the Big Ten.

9. Trinidad Chambliss, Mississippi

Chambliss continues to be the Power Four’s breakout star after piloting the No. 4 Rebels to a 24-19 win against No. 13 LSU. The Ferris State transfer had 314 passing yards, 71 yards on the ground and a touchdown in his third start in a row in place of an injured Austin Simmons.

10. Haynes King, Georgia Tech

King has been on point in leading the No. 16 Yellow Jackets to just the program’s fourth 5-0 start in 59 years. He had 243 passing yards, 106 rushing yards and three combined touchdowns in Saturday’s 30-29 overtime win against Wake Forest and has cracked the 100-yard mark on the ground three times in four games. King rounds out the list over Missouri’s Beau Pribula, Illinois’ Luke Altmyer and Cincinnati’s Brendan Sorsby.

The 2025 WNBA Finals tipoff on Friday, October 3, in Las Vegas and this season’s main event will feature two teams seeking to add more hardware to the championship trophy cases.

The No. 4 seed Phoenix Mercury will make their sixth appearance in the Finals and are seeking their fourth title and first since 2014. The No. 2 seed Las Vegas Aces are making their fourth WNBA Finals appearance and will push for their third championship since 2022.

Both teams are led by incredible players like 2025 WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson and six-time All-Star Alyssa Thomas. As these two franchises prepare to put on an elite display of hoops, here is a ranking of all 23 players between the rosters:

(Statistical averages are per game during the 2025 regular season.)

23. Kiah Stokes, C, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 1.1, Rebounds: 3.6, Assists: 0.4, Steals: 0.4

Stokes is not a major scoring threat, but what she does provide is size and length for the Aces. She’s also a solid rim protector when asked to contribute.

22. Megan Gustafson, C, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 3.0, Rebounds: 1.8, Assists: 0.3, Steals: 0.2

Gustafson can be inconsistent with her production, but she’s been a timely boost of energy and offense when called upon during the playoffs. Her 3-point shooting has gotten the Aces out of a bind more than once.

21. Kiana Williams, G, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 4.1, Rebounds: 1.0, Assists: 0.9, Steals: 0.3

Williams was a mid-season hardship signing for the Mercury and contributed to the team’s success as it battled injuries. She hasn’t had as much playing time lately, but if deployed, she moves well off the ball and does a good job of elevating to get her shots up in traffic.

20. Kierstan Bell, F, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 4.2, Rebounds: 1.8, Assists: 0.7, Steals: 0.4

Bell has consistently done what Las Vegas asks, whether off the bench or in the starting lineup. She’s a willing defender who the Aces can move around, and her signature splashy 3-point shot is always a welcome sight.

19. Aaliyah Nye, G, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 3.8, Rebounds: 1.5, Assists: 0.5, Steals: 0.3

Nye is one of the grittiest young players in the WNBA. She’s never afraid of the moment, and it’s a big reason she’s on the roster. Nye brings perimeter shooting and a poise and presence that Las Vegas needs.

18. Kathryn Westbeld, F, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 5.1, Rebounds: 2.5, Assists: 0.9, Steals: 0.8

Westbeld is an underrated piece of the Mercury’s success this season. She held down the starting lineup when they injury bug hit the team and continued to produce when moved to the bench. In the playoffs, Westbeld has shot a blistering 53.3% from 3-point range, something Phoenix will need to win a championship.

17. Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, F, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 8.0, Rebounds: 1.0, Assists: 0, Steals: 0

Parker-Tyus missed most of the Aces’ regular season on maternity leave, but she fit right into Becky Hammon’s lineup when she returned in September. Parker-Tyus is an efficient shooter who can score on all three levels and has good footwork in the paint, something Las Vegas needs when teammate A’ja Wilson isn’t on the floor.

16. Lexi Held, G, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 5.3, Rebounds: 1.1, Assists: 1.1, Steals: 0.7

Held has a sneaky good acceleration to the basket that often catches opposing defenders off guard. However, she can also stop on a dime and deliver a basket with her impeccable footwork that she utilizes to create separation.

15. Kitija Laksa, G, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 5.9, Rebounds: 1.2, Assists: 0.6, Steals: 0.4

Laksa is a master at manipulating defenders on the court through impressive footwork and elevation that’s hard to keep up with. Her midrange work is her best asset, but she can also knock it down from range.

14. Kalani Brown, C, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 5.1, Rebounds: 4.0, Assists: 0.6, Steals: 0.2

Brown’s minutes have dwindled this season with Phoenix, but she’s a critical depth piece who has zero problem with scoring. She’s also a solid defender who can track movements, perfectly timing her blocks.

13. Dana Evans, G, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 6.6, Rebounds: 1.1, Assists: 2.2, Steals: 0.4

Evans has been very good as of late for the Aces. Her two-man game with teammate Jewell Loyd has helped elevate Las Vegas’ bench unit when it struggled earlier this year. What’s more, she’s shooting 40 percent from deep in the postseason and hasn’t been afraid to take on any assignments in her Aces tenure.

12. Sami Whitcomb, G, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 9.1, Rebounds: 2.6, Assists: 2.5, Steals: 0.8

Whitcomb is a walking toolbox who has every characteristic you could want out of a guard. Tough, gritty and unleashes shots at the right time. Don’t sleep on Whitcomb. She can get hot at any moment, and she can clean up the little things for the Mercury that are often game-changing shifts in energy.

11. DeWanna Bonner, F, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 9.8, Rebounds: 4.2, Assists: 1.2, Steals: 0.8

A 16-year veteran, Bonner has the most experience of anyone in the WNBA Finals, and though her production has waned over the last several seasons, she can still knock it down from 3-point land. When Bonner’s not scoring, she’s crashing the glass and causing defensive disruption.

10. Natasha Mack, F, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 4.7, Rebounds: 5.8, Assists: 0.9, Steals: 0.9

Mack’s confidence grew throughout the 2025 season and she’s brought out more skills, including ball handling and footwork, that make her tough to defend. On the opposite end of the floor, she’s a nightmare defensively. She uses her instincts and length to cause mayhem at every turn.

9. NaLyssa Smith, F, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 7.6, Rebounds: 5.1, Assists: 0.7, Steals: 0.6

Smith was a midseason pickup for the Aces, who has benefited from playing with MVP A’ja Wilson. Smith seems more comfortable in Las Vegas and has truly blossomed into a 3-point specialist. Smith also uses her 6-foot-4 frame to her advantage defensively, securing rebounds and cutting off driving lanes.

8. Monique Akoa Makani, G, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 7.7, Rebounds: 2.2, Assists: 2.7, Steals: 0.8

Makani is fearless as the only rookie starter in the WNBA Finals. She does so much that doesn’t show up on a stat sheet, including breaking down defenses with her incredible vision and playmaking abilities. Makani can also hit any shot the Mercury ask her to make, including seemingly everything behind the arc. She’s works well in tandem with teammate Alyssa Thomas, something the Mercury will need in the the Finals.

7. Jewell Loyd, G, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 11.2, Rebounds: 3.2, Assists: 1.8, Steals: 1.2 

Coming off the bench, Loyd had provided a spark this season. Her big play ability has helped keep the Aces’ in games where the bench needed to help carry the load, including in Game 5 against the Indiana Fever. Loyd swarmed the glass and knocked down timely 3-point shots to help Las Vegas get to the Finals. Loyd may not churn out jaw-dropping games as often as she used to, but she’s still dangerous with the ball in her hands.

6. Chelsea Gray, G, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 11.2, Rebounds: 3.9, Assists: 5.4, Steals: 1.4

Gray has never been a volume shooter, but she doesn’t need to be for the Aces. Scoring only when she must suits her game the best and allows her to be an elite passer and floor general. Her court vision is mesmerizing and allows her to put the ball in places few can. In the postseason, she’s averaging an impressive 7.3 assists per game and is second in total assists (58) behind only Phoenix’s Alyssa Thomas.

5. Kahleah Copper, G, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 15.6, Rebounds: 2.9, Assists: 1.5, Steals: 1.1

Copper has one of the fastest steps in the WNBA, and she uses it to punish opposing defenses with explosive drives and cuts to the basket. The Mercury guard also shoots extremely well from 3-point range, and that makes defending her incredibly frustrating. Additionally, she’s an excellent defender who uses pressure to cause disruption and then immediately turns that into back-breaking transition points on the other end.

4. Satou Sabally, F, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 16.3, Rebounds: 5.9, Assists: 2.5, Steals: 1.3

Sabally is a versatile player who can score in multiple ways and defend nearly every position on the floor. She also does a good job of helping to get the most out of stagnant possessions by weaving her way through the paint or draining shots from the perimeter with little time to work with. After a slow start to the playoffs, Sabally’s been in double-digits every game, including churning out four stat lines of 20 or more points.

3. Jackie Young, G, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 16.5, Rebounds: 4.5, Assists: 5.1, Steals: 1.3

Young might be the most underrated player on both finals rosters. Her quiet presence is unassuming, but her game is very loud. She is absolutely unfazed by defenses and will pull up for a shot or drive to the basket regardless of who is on the other end. Young is averaging nearly 20 points, five rebounds and five assists on a magnificent 54 percent shooting from the field in the postseason.

2. Alyssa Thomas, F, Phoenix Mercury

Points: 15.4, Rebounds: 8.8, Assists: 9.2, Steals: 1.6

Thomas is a freight train in every sense of the word. Nicknamed the Engine, she’s a walking triple-double and a seemingly immovable force on both sides of the ball. As a point-forward, she controls so much for Phoenix, and teams often have zero answer for her because even if she’s not scoring, she’s still a massive threat everywhere else. There are little to no weaknesses in Thomas’ game, and she imposes her will without hesitation.

1. A’ja Wilson, F, Las Vegas Aces

Points: 23.4, Rebounds: 10.2, Assists: 3.1, Steals: 1.6 

When she’s not busy putting up 30-point double-doubles, Wilson is often causing havoc from every part of the floor. She’s an extremely athletic post player who can guard all positions, and that makes her the most dangerous player in the WNBA Finals. Wilson can do it all, including ball handling and facilitating, her most underrated skills. Sleep on the four-time MVP, three-time Defensive Player of the Year and two-time WNBA champion at your own risk.

Minnesota Lynx star Napheesa Collier sustained multiple torn ligaments in her ankle and a torn shin muscle.
The injury occurred during a controversial, no-call play in a playoff game against the Phoenix Mercury.

Star forward Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx tore several ligaments in her ankle and a muscle in her shin on a controversial play at the end of a Sept. 26 playoff game against the Phoenix Mercury, according to an ESPN report.

Sources tell ESPN that Collier suffered a Grade 2 tear of three ankle ligaments and a shin muscle when she collided with Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas in Game 3 of their WNBA playoff semifinal series.

Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve was incensed when no foul was called on the play. She had to be restrained as she vehemently argued with the referees and was ejected. After an expletive-filled postgame rant, Reeve was fined and suspended for Game 4 of the series, which the Lynx lost to end their season.

Collier didn’t play in Game 4 and sources told ESPN that the injury would require at least six weeks of recovery time, which would have prevented Collier from returning to action had the Lynx advanced to the WNBA Finals.

It’s time for the NBA preseason, and the action will begin halfway around the world in 2025.

The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers are set to play the first of two NBA preseason games at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Thursday, Oct. 2 for the league’s Abu Dhabi Games initiative. The two teams will then play again on Saturday, Oct. 4, before returning to the United States for the remainder of the preseason. Both the Sixers and Knicks were permitted to begin their training camps last week due to international travel.

The Knicks are coming off their deepest playoff run since 1999, but fired former coach Tom Thibodeau after they were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals. This will be new coach Mike Brown’s first unofficial game implementing a more up-tempo style with Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and the rest of the returning New York nucleus that’s again a top contender to make it to the NBA Finals out of the East.

The 76ers had a disastrous, injury-marred 2024-25 season in which franchise cornerstone Joel Embiid hardly played and prized free agent acquisition Paul George missed most of the second half of the campaign. Both are still recovering from knee surgery with no timeline for a return and neither is expected to play in Abu Dhabi.

Here’s how to watch the Knicks take on the 76ers in the first 2025 NBA preseason game as part of the Abu Dhabi Games:

When does the NBA preseason begin?

The NBA preseason starts on Thursday, Oct. 2, with the international matchup between the New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks and 76ers will play a second game in Abu Dhabi two days later on Saturday, Oct. 4.

What time is Knicks vs. 76ers in NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025?

The New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers preseason game on Thursday, Oct. 2 as part of the NBA Abu Dhabi games is scheduled to tip off at 12 p.m. ET at Etihad Arena in the United Arab Emirates. The teams will play again on Saturday, Oct. 4 at 11 a.m. ET.

What channel is Knicks vs. 76ers NBA Abu Dhabi preseason game?

The New York Knicks vs. Philadelphia 76ers preseason matchup on Thursday, Oct. 2, as part of the NBA Abu Dhabi Games, will be broadcast nationally on NBA TV. It can be live-streamed with Fubo. Their game on Saturday, Oct. 4 in Abu Dhabi will also be broadcast by NBA TV and can be accessed through live stream with Fubo.

Watch NBA Abu Dhabi Games with Fubo

LOS ANGELES — It turned out to be nothing more than a dress rehearsal.

The Los Angeles Dodgers disposed of the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday night, 8-4, sweeping the two-game wild card series at Dodger Stadium, and will hop on a flight for the real pageant.

It will be the Dodgers vs. the Philadelphia Phillies in a best-of-five series beginning Saturday night in front of a frenzied crowd at Citizens Bank Park .

The Dodgers won’t say it – not wanting to disrespect the other 10 teams still in the dance – but they believe this very well could be their World Series.

Yep, just like a year ago when the Dodgers faced the Padres in the National League Division Series.

The Phillies are the beast of the East, winning 96 games with a star-studded lineup led by Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and Trea Turner, a lethal rotation with Cristopher Sanchez, Ranger Suarez and Jesus Luzardo – and plenty of postseason experience.

The Phillies and Dodgers last met in the postseason in 2009, back when Shohei Ohtani was a 15-year-old at Hanamaki Higashi High School in Japan, and Harper was 17. The Phillies beat the Dodgers 4 games to 1 in the NLCS, just like they ended their season the previous year. The last time the Dodgers beat the Phillies in the postseason was 1978, before any of these players were even born.

But the Dodgers, who lost four of the six games against the Phillies this season, are convinced they are peaking just at the right time.

They have won 17 of their last 22, scoring 113 runs in the last 20 – and their pitching has been unconscious.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto was the latest starter to dominate the opposition. He gave up two unearned runs in the first inning, promptly retired the next 13 batters with six strikeouts, and then got into trouble by allowing three consecutive singles.

The Reds, trailing just 3-2, suddenly had the bases loaded with nobody out in the sixth. But Yamamoto didn’t blink. He induced an infield groundout by Austin Hays, and then struck out Sal Stewart on a curveball and Elly De La Cruz on an even better curveball.

Yoshinobu strutted off the field to a huge ovation from the crowd of 50,465, and then watched the Dodgers’ offense blow the game open the offense with a four-run sixth inning, sending 10 men to the plate, turning a one-run game into a 7-2 rout.

The Dodgers produced 12 hits, everyone but center fielder Andy Pages reached base at least once by the sixth inning, led by Betts’ four-hit game with three doubles and three RBI.

And no one’s on a better heater than Yamamoto, who pitched 6 2/3 innings, and wound up yielding four hits and two unearned runs while striking out nine batters, leaving to a standing ovation.

In Yamamoto’s last eight starts, he is yielding a 1.34 ERA, striking out 65 in 53 2/3 innings.

“What I learned is he prepares very well, very intentional with his preparation,’’ Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “I learned that the moment isn’t too big for him, any moment. I learned that he has the ability to make pitches when he needs to. He always seems like the best option.

“I think that if you’re talking about a player from last year to this year, I’d probably say he’s number one on the growth chart, considering coming over here and trying to get his feet wet, trying to learn the culture, the game, the hitters, create a routine for himself, to then be a really big-game pitcher.’

Now, the Dodgers are off to Philadelphia where Shohei Ohtani will make his first pitching appearance in a postseason game. He’s scheduled to start Game 1 Saturday in Philadelphia, Blake Snell on Monday in Game 2, and back to Yamamoto for Game 3 at Dodger Stadium.

Their only real worry is, well, that bullpen, which had the hometown crowd booing once again. They gave up five runs in the seventh and eighth innings of Game 1, and then another two runs in the eighth inning Wednesday.

“They’ve had stretches of good, they’ve had some stretches where it’s been really tough and challenging,” said Andrew Friedman, Dodgers president of baseball operations. “At the end of the day, as we’re working through it the last couple of weeks, it’s not a talent issue ….

“When the confidence is wavering, the execution is off. When the execution is off, you get behind and you come in zone and you’re just more likely to take on damage. So it’s kind of that imperfect storm in a lot of ways.”

You know the Dodgers are starting to freak out over their bullpen when Dodgers manager Dave Roberts yanked Emmet Sheehan with a 1-and-2 count on Will Benson, put in Alex Vesia, who struck out pinch-hitter Miguel Andujar. Vesia got out of a bases-loaded jam by striking out leadoff hitter TJ Friedl, ending the threat.

Rookie Rōki Sasaki then was summoned for the ninth, closed it out, and the bullpen mess will be a worry for another day.

“It’s sort of a daily kind of conversation with the pitching coaches, the front office,’’ Roberts said, “and just kind of – and most importantly – what I see.’’

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Here’s how Wednesday’s game unfolded at Dodger Stadium:

Dodgers tack on in the seventh, lead 8-2

Mookie Betts hit his third double of the game to score Miguel Rojas and extend the Dodgers’ lead to 8-2 against Tony Santillan.

Dodgers blow it open in the sixth

After narrowly avoiding disaster in the top of the sixth, the Dodgers scored four runs in the bottom of the frame to push their lead to 7-2. Los Angeles scored on Shohei Ohtani’s RBI single, Mookie Betts’ RBI double and Teoscar Hernandez’s two-run double.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto escapes bases-loaded jam

The Reds loaded the bases with nobody in the top of the sixth with three consecutive singles against Yoshinobu Yamamoto but Dodgers manager Dave Roberts left his $325 million man in to fend for himself. Yamamoto got Austin Hays to ground into a force-out that stopped the run from scoring, then struck out Sal Stewart and Elly De La Cruz to somehow escape unscathed.

Dodgers take 3-2 lead in the fourth

Omnipresent postseason hero Enrique Hernández laced an RBI double in the bottom of the fourth to score Max Muncy, tying the game and chasing Reds starter Zack Littell. Miguel Rojas followed with an RBI single to greet Nick Lodolo and put the Dodgers up 3-2.

Cincinnati escaped further damange with Lodolo retiring Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts.

Dodgers pull one back on Mookie Betts RBI

Trailing 2-0 in the bottom of the third, Dodgers catcher Ben Rortvedt led of with a double and came around to score on Mookie Betts’ one-out RBI single cut Cincinnati’s lead in half heading into the fourth inning.

Reds take early lead after Teoscar Hernandez error

Dodgers right fielder Teoscar Hernandez dropped a fly ball hit by Austin Hays with two outs in the top of the first, extending the inning before rookie Sal Stewart laced a two-run single off Yoshinobu Yamamoto to give the Reds an early 2-0 lead at Dodger Stadium.

Dodgers lineup tonight

Shohei Ohtani (L) DH
Mookie Betts (R) SS
Freddie Freeman (L) 1B
Teoscar Hernández (R) RF
Max Muncy (L) 3B
Andy Pages (R) CF
Enrique Hernández (R) LF
Miguel Rojas (R) 2B
Ben Rortvedt (L) C

Reds lineup tonight vs Dodgers

TJ Friedl (L) CF
Spencer Steer (R) LF
Gavin Lux (L) DH
Austin Hays (R) RF
Sal Stewart (R) 1B
Elly De La Cruz (S) SS
Tyler Stephenson (R) C
Ke’Bryan Hayes (R) 3B
Matt McLain (R) 2B