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The Sarasota Paradise to Host United Soccer League Two Playoffs
The Sarasota Paradise soccer team has won the USL League Two South Florida Division championship for the second consecutive season. They are now preparing to host playoff matches at their home arena, Premier Sports Campus in Lakewood Ranch. Their own Conference Quarterfinal match is against Sporting JAX on Friday night; a victory in this game would mark the organization's first-ever postseason win. The USL League Two playoffs involve 32 out of 144 teams from four conferences. Teams compete in a single-elimination format, with the Southern and Eastern conference winners eventually facing the winner of the Western/Central semi-final for the Championship on August 2nd. Premier Sports Campus will host two Southern Conference Quarterfinals on Friday: Laredo Heat SC vs. Fort Lauderdale United at 4:00 PM, followed by the Paradise vs. Sporting JAX at 7:30 PM. The winners of these matches will play each other on July 21st. Head Coach Mirko Dakovic expressed pride in the team's resiliency, roster depth, and commitment to winning throughout the season, emphasizing that such achievements are not guaranteed despite the back-to-back division titles. Despite losing in the first playoff round in 2024, the team is confident about advancing this year. The Paradise features top collegiate and amateur players. Sarasota native Andres Freire (Stetson University) leads the team with 10 goals this season. Defender Felipe Rojas, a Sarasota native and original team member, strengthens the defense. Rojas stated the team feels stronger and more confident than last season and aims to demonstrate their quality nationally.
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Game Recap: Late collapse in 89-85 loss to Wolves makes it 3 straight L’s for the Suns
The Phoenix Suns suffered their third consecutive Summer League loss, falling to the Minnesota Timberwolves 89-85. Despite a strong start with an early 10-4 lead, the Suns couldn't maintain momentum. Boogie Ellis led Phoenix with 23 points, highlighted by 12 first-quarter points, though his offensive impact diminished as the game progressed. Phoenix was without Koby Brea due to a left thumb sprain, leaving him day-to-day. Meanwhile, Minnesota's Robert Dillingham delivered an impressive all-around performance with 23 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, while Leonard Miller dominated with a 22-point, 11-rebound double-double. The Suns began aggressively, ending the first quarter with a commanding 32-16 lead fueled by Ellis and Khaman Maluach's three-pointers. Defensive efforts and Timberwolves' turnovers aided their early control. Sophomores Ryan Dunn and Oso Ighodaro showcased developing chemistry, with Ighodaro experimenting effectively in a point-forward role. However, the second quarter saw a dramatic reversal: Minnesota opened with a 6-0 run while Phoenix went scoreless for over three minutes. Dunn eventually broke the drought with a free throw. Throughout the half, the Suns tested Maluach's versatility—evaluating his three-point shooting, post play, and lob threat potential—confirming his status as a raw but promising prospect.
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Bradley Beal absolutely screws the Suns on his way out
The Phoenix Suns have bought out Bradley Beal, removing him from their roster but creating significant long-term financial issues. To avoid the punitive second tax apron, the Suns were forced to waive-and-stretch Beal's contract. This results in $19.4 million of "dead money" counting against their salary cap annually for the next five seasons, a charge they cannot eliminate and must pay through the 2030 campaign. Despite Beal's solid on-court production last season (17 points per game on efficient shooting), his massive salary and no-trade clause eliminated any trade market. Beal had to approve any potential trade and was unwilling to leave Phoenix. This lack of options left the Suns facing only two choices: buy him out or keep paying the remaining $110.8 million over two years. The buyout was chosen. The Suns received nothing in return for Beal because he refused to waive his no-trade clause. While Beal did give back enough money to facilitate the contract stretching, this was the sole concession. Beal is now free to join a contender, specifically the LA Clippers, while still receiving substantial payments from the Suns. The Suns' acquisition of Beal is portrayed as a major mistake. They paid him star-level money (nearly $97 million) for what amounted to role player production over two seasons where he played only 53 games each year. The team failed to win any playoff games during his tenure, falling short of championship expectations. The financial burden continues as the $19.4 million cap hold prevents Phoenix from spending that money on players who could help them win for the next five years, hindering efforts to build around Devin Booker. Although the buyout saves the Suns $200 million this season, pushing them below the luxury tax line and aprons and providing some roster flexibility, it introduces a new set of problems lasting until 2030. Beal emerges as the clear winner, getting paid by Phoenix while freely joining his chosen team. The article concludes that while the buyout was necessary, the Suns will regret the original Beal trade and feel its painful financial consequences for years, serving as a lesson about the risks of star power and no-trade clauses.
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Game Recap: Indiana Fever Fall at New York Liberty
The Indiana Fever faced the New York Liberty at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. The Fever, holding a record of 12-11, lost the game to the Liberty with a final score of 98-77. This defeat occurred in the Fever's final game before the WNBA All-Star break.
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2025 NASCAR Playoff Picture: Who's In, Who's Nervous, Who's Got To Win
As the NASCAR Cup Series regular season concludes, drivers outside playoff positions are seeking wins to secure spots. A victory guarantees playoff entry unless winners exceed the 16 available spots, which are allocated to the regular-season champion followed by winners ranked by points. Currently, 12 winners exist, and the regular-season champion will likely be a winner, meaning only 4-5 new winners could threaten existing qualifiers. Six races remain: Dover (1-mile concrete), Indianapolis (2.5-mile flat oval), Iowa (0.875-mile oval), Watkins Glen (road course), Richmond (0.75-mile oval), and Daytona (2.5-mile drafting oval). Watkins Glen, Richmond, and Daytona are considered most likely for potential upset winners, with at most three new winners anticipated. Drivers are categorized as follows: Guaranteed Spots: Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, Christopher Bell, and Shane van Gisbergen (each with three wins). Have A Win, No Worries: William Byron, Chase Elliott, Ryan Blaney, Chase Briscoe, Ross Chastain, Joey Logano (one win, safe from elimination even with new winners). Have A Win, Tiny Worry: Austin Cindric and Josh Berry (could face points battle if new winners emerge; Cindric leads Berry by six points but trails Logano by 103 points). No Win, Tiny Worry: Tyler Reddick (retains a slim chance at the regular-season title despite a 53-point deficit, and holds a 115-point lead over top winless driver Chris Buescher).
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Mikal Bridges Traded To The Phoenix Suns
Mikal Bridges, who began his NBA career with the Phoenix Suns before moving to the Brooklyn Nets and then the New York Knicks, could potentially return to the Suns. Bridges is entering a "lame duck" season as he currently lacks a contract for the future. A proposed trade is outlined where the Phoenix Suns would acquire Bridges from the New York Knicks. In return, the Knicks would receive Suns guard Grayson Allen and the Suns' 2030 first-round draft pick. While Bridges has connections to the "Nova Boys" and the Knicks face high expectations creating a volatile situation, the article addresses potential skepticism from Suns fans about a Bridges return. It argues that a reunion is more plausible now due to changes in the Suns' ownership, general manager, and head coach since Bridges left. The article highlights Bridges' value, describing him as one of the NBA's most reliable players. It suggests his personality and skills would make him an excellent third option for the Suns, fitting well with a developing "scrappy" team mentality.
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Miami 'outclassed' as historic Messi streak ends
FC Cincinnati defeated Inter Miami 3-0 at TQL Stadium on Wednesday night, ending Inter Miami's five-match winning streak and Lionel Messi's MLS record streak of scoring two goals in a game. Messi was held scoreless. Cincinnati midfielder Evander was the standout player, scoring twice in the second half to set a club record by finding the net in his fifth consecutive MLS match. His goals brought his season total to 15. His first goal, a left-footed shot from the center of the box, doubled Cincinnati's lead after Gerardo Valenzuela had put the hosts ahead in the first half. Evander received "MVP" chants from the home crowd. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano admitted his team was "clearly outclassed" from the start. He cited struggles in individual encounters, significant physical stress leading to fatigue and lack of sharpness, and constant pressure from Cincinnati as reasons for the loss, acknowledging Cincinnati "beat us very well." Mascherano expressed concern about being outplayed so comprehensively. Cincinnati dominated the match, controlling possession for most of the first half and extra time. They had 11 total shots (6 on goal), compared to Miami's offensive struggles. Cincinnati's stellar defense effectively contained Messi and the entire Miami attack throughout the first half, thwarting every opportunity. Messi had two first-half shot attempts blocked by defender Lukas Engel and saved by goalkeeper Roman Celentano. Celentano earned his seventh clean sheet of the season with two saves. Miami goalkeepers Oscar Ustari (injured in the first half) and Rocco Ríos Novo combined for four saves. The loss was Inter Miami's first regular-season defeat since May 18. Cincinnati moved into second place in the Eastern Conference.
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A little-known oasis for locals with brain injuries
The Hilltop Life Adjustment Program (LAP) in Grand Junction supports 85 residents with traumatic and non-traumatic brain injuries who desire independence despite potential barriers. Located on an eight-acre campus near 15th Street and Wellington Avenue, the program serves Grand Valley residents. Residents, like Tom Monahan (a nearly 10-year resident and hit-and-run victim), Jody Sydow, and Anthony Paul (who credits LAP with bringing him "back to life"), value the balance the program offers. They have the freedom to travel off-campus for independence, while also enjoying extensive on-campus amenities that support well-being and socialization. These amenities include a movie theater, fitness center, craft room, game room, dining hall, and outdoor greenery. Residents live in conjoined, apartment-style buildings, staying for an average of 12.5 years. Each pre-furnished unit houses two to three residents and features private bedrooms, a shared living room, kitchenette, and bathroom. The program supports residents in everyday life moments. Daily activities observed include physical activity with staff members and relaxing pursuits like coloring and drawing while listening to meditation music.
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49ers FB Kyle Juszczyk gives update on Christian McCaffrey: “He looks so healthy. He looks so explosive”
San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey endured a difficult 2024 season marred by injuries. Shortly after signing a contract extension making him the NFL's highest-paid running back, he suffered calf and Achilles injuries, causing him to miss the start of the regular season. He managed to play in only four games before being shut down early again due to a PCL injury, finishing with just 50 carries and 202 yards. Now looking ahead to the 2025 season, McCaffrey aims to bounce back. He has stated he is the healthiest he has been in several seasons and intends to remind everyone why he is considered one of the league's best running backs, referencing his outstanding 2023 performance of 2,023 scrimmage yards and 21 touchdowns. His teammate, fullback Kyle Juszczyk, strongly endorses McCaffrey's return, calling him "arguably the best player in the NFL" and the 2023 Offensive Player of the Year. Juszczyk praised McCaffrey, saying he "looks incredible," "so healthy," and "so explosive" in workouts. Juszczyk believes McCaffrey's presence changes everything for the team. Juszczyk also expressed confidence in the entire 49ers team rebounding from their disappointing 6-11 season in 2024, which was riddled with injuries. He noted the team is hungry and motivated, reminiscent of their 12-5, NFC Championship-winning 2023 season that led to a Super Bowl appearance. He highlighted the team's strong attendance and work ethic during the offseason. The 49ers reported to training camp this week and will hold their first practice on July 22. They open the 2025 regular season on September 7 against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field.
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Lionel Messi's Multi-Goal Streak Ends At 5 Games With Inter Miami's Loss
Lionel Messi's Major League Soccer record streak of scoring multiple goals in five consecutive matches ended as his Inter Miami team lost 3-0 to FC Cincinnati on Wednesday. Cincinnati secured the victory with a first-half goal from Gerardo Valenzuela and two second-half goals from Evander. This defeat halted Inter Miami's five-match winning streak. Despite the loss, Messi remains tied for the league lead with 16 goals in 17 MLS matches, holding the historic record for a multi-goal streak exceeding four games. Cincinnati applied early pressure, registering four shots on target in the first 16 minutes while Miami had none. Valenzuela opened the scoring by angling a shot from the left side of the box for his fifth season goal. Messi's first shot didn't occur until the final minute of first-half stoppage time and was easily saved by keeper Roman Celentano. Evander extended Cincinnati's lead to 2-0 less than five minutes into the second half, scoring his 14th goal of the season and 50th in MLS. He later sealed the 3-0 victory by converting a rebound after Luca Orellano's shot hit the keeper. Messi had a close-range chance saved by Celentano in the 78th minute. Cincinnati successfully neutralized Inter Miami's attack, particularly Messi, to secure the win and remain one point behind Eastern Conference leaders Philadelphia Union. Cincinnati played without their second-leading scorer, Kevin Denkey, due to a leg injury. Messi, 38, has played 90-plus minutes in eight straight games, including Club World Cup matches, and covered the least distance of any player at one point in the second half.
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