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TOUCHDOWN: Bengals 10, Steelers 7
The Steelers are on the board after a one-yard TD run from Najee Harris.
Tag: Fighting
Spartans vs Fighting Illini Prediction: Odds, Expert Picks, Betting Trends and Stats
The Big Ten men’s basketball season continues this afternoon as the Fighting Illini (5-2, 13-4) travel to East Lansing to take on the Spartans (6-0, 15-2).
Illinois blew out Indiana at Assembly Hall Tuesday night, 94-69. Kylan Boswell led the way with 22 points and 7 boards for Illinois. The Spartans’ last game was also on the road and was also a win. Michigan State knocked off Ohio State in Columbus, 69-62. Senior Szymon Zapala scored 15 for Sparty.
The Spartans’ record in their last ten games is 9-1 while the Fighting Illini’s record is 4-0 in their last 5 tilts. The Fighting Illini are 3-1 on the road this season while the Spartans are 9-0 at home.
Lets dive into the matchup and offer some information and possibly a sweat or two.
We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch the opening tip, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.
Game details & how to watch Fighting Illini at Spartans
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Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
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Time: 12:00PM EST
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Site: Jack Breslin Students Events Center
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City: East Lansing, MI
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Network/Streaming: CBS
Never miss a second of the action and stay up to date with all the latest scores and player news. Check out our day-by-day NCAA Basketball Schedule Page that includes live game updates.
Game odds for Fighting Illini at Spartans
The latest odds as of Sunday courtesy of BetMGM:
Bet the Edge is your source for all things sports betting. Get all of Jay Croucher and Drew Dinsick’s insight weekdays at 6AM ET right here or wherever you get your favorite podcasts.
Expert picks & predictions for Illinois at Michigan State
Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the NCAA calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, injuries, and the schedule.
Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.
Fighting Illini vs Spartans Best Bets
Here are the best bets our model is projecting for today’s Fighting Illini & Spartans game:
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Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Moneyline.
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Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Michigan State at -2.5.
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Total: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Game Total of 156.5.
Fighting Illini vs Spartans: Top betting trends and recent stats
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Michigan State has won 18 of its last 20 home games following a win
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The UNDER is 4-1 in Michigan State’s last 5 home games
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Michigan State has covered the spread in 8 of its last 10 games against teams with winning records
If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our NCAA Basketball Top Trends Tool on NBCSports.com!
Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.
Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:
· Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
· Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
· Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
· Brad Thomas (@MrBradThomas)
The highly anticipated matchup between the Michigan State Spartans and the Illinois Fighting Illini is set to take place this weekend, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Both teams have had their share of ups and downs this season, making this game a must-watch for college football enthusiasts.The Spartans are coming off a tough loss to Ohio State, while the Fighting Illini are riding high after a convincing win over Rutgers. With both teams looking to make a statement in this game, it’s sure to be a thrilling showdown.
According to the latest odds, the Spartans are favored to win this matchup, but the Fighting Illini are not to be underestimated. With their strong defense and explosive offense, they have the potential to pull off an upset against their rivals.
Our expert picks are split on this game, with some predicting a close victory for the Spartans and others leaning towards the Fighting Illini. It’s sure to be a tight contest, and anything can happen on the field.
Betting trends show that the majority of bettors are putting their money on the Spartans to cover the spread, but there is also a significant number of wagers on the Fighting Illini to pull off the upset.
Key stats to watch in this game include the Spartans’ passing game, led by quarterback Payton Thorne, and the Fighting Illini’s rushing attack, spearheaded by running back Chase Brown. Whichever team can control the line of scrimmage and make big plays on offense will likely come out on top.
Overall, this game promises to be a thrilling battle between two talented teams. Be sure to tune in and see who comes out on top in this Spartans vs Fighting Illini showdown.
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Spartans vs Fighting Illini prediction, Spartans vs Fighting Illini odds, Spartans vs Fighting Illini expert picks, Spartans vs Fighting Illini betting trends, Spartans vs Fighting Illini stats, college basketball prediction, NCAA basketball odds, sports betting trends, basketball stats, Big Ten conference matchup
#Spartans #Fighting #Illini #Prediction #Odds #Expert #Picks #Betting #Trends #Stats-
Art and Science of Staff Fighting 2-DVD (YMAA DVD) Joe Varady step by step Staff, Nine Levels – Easy to Expert
Price:$48.08– $44.44
(as of Jan 19,2025 16:16:59 UTC – Details)
2-disc SALE! Marked down from full price of $99.95 (60% off). NINE LEVELS, EASY TO EXPERT
The 8-hour Art and Science of Staff Fighting video offers complete step by step instruction for the staff, with an emphasis on the dynamics of combat. The author draws on thirty years of martial experience, presenting the best of both Eastern and Western traditions. Joe Varady lays out a comprehensive course of study in nine levels, from beginner to expert, guiding you through such fundamentals as stances, striking, blocking, and footwork. In advanced lessons, viewers learn disarming techniques, groundwork, and facing multiple opponents. This video is not just for staff enthusiasts. Even those unfamiliar with martial arts can adapt these techniques, increasing their skill and confidence in defending themselves. “Our environment is usually full of improvised weapons,” says Varady. “Staff fighting techniques can be effectively applied in a self-defense situation using a walking stick, coatrack, curtain rod, floor lamp, hockey stick, fallen tree branch, broom, mop, shovel, or rake.” This video features:
Nine levels, progressing from easy to expert
Detailed step by step instructions, drills, fundamentals, and advanced techniques
A “nondenominational” approach to staff, utilizing the best of Eastern and Western arts
A comprehensive, methodical approach to building staff skills If you are already a student of the staff, these lessons will augment your techniques, broaden your options, and offer foundational insights to other polearms such as the spear and halberd. Whether you are an experienced staff fighter or a layman seeking practical techniques for self-defense, The Art and Science of Staff Fighting will help you develop the skills you need.
Package Dimensions : 7.6 x 5.39 x 0.67 inches; 4.97 ounces
Media Format : DVD
Run time : 8 hours
ASIN : B09YJM6WSL
Country of Origin : USA
Are you looking to master the ancient art of staff fighting? Look no further than the Art and Science of Staff Fighting 2-DVD set from YMAA. In this comprehensive guide, renowned martial artist Joe Varady takes you through the nine levels of staff fighting, from easy to expert.With step-by-step instructions and detailed demonstrations, Varady breaks down the techniques and strategies needed to become proficient with the staff. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced practitioner seeking to refine your skills, this DVD set has something for everyone.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the business. Order your copy of the Art and Science of Staff Fighting 2-DVD set today and start your journey towards mastering the staff.
#Art #Science #Staff #Fighting #2DVD #YMAA #DVD #Joe #Varady #step #step #Staff #Levels #Easy #Expert,2024Khabib details if fighting or coaching vs. Dustin Poirier harder
Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev share a common UFC opponent.
UFC lightweight champion Makhachev’s most recent title defense came in a fifth-round submission of Dustin Poirier at UFC 302. Nurmagomedov also holds a victory over Poirier, whom he submitted at UFC 242 in September 2019.
Nurmagomedov admits fighting “The Diamond” was a lot easier than cornering Makhachev (26-1 MMA, 15-1 UFC) again him.
“Outside and inside cage? Inside was much better,” Nurmagomedov told ESPN. “When I was inside, I don’t have to talk. Only a couple of times I talk with him. Inside the cage when I was with Dustin, a couple of times I remember I talked with him. After first round, I tell him how you feel and he said, ‘Nothing, you win first round.’
“But when I was outside with Islam, like, almost 25 minutes I was just talking. I cannot do nothing. I don’t like this, to be honest, but it was an amazing fight. It was an amazing fight for fans. Amazing finish in the fifth round and very good experience for Islam. Very, very good experience.”
Coach Javier Mendez called Poirier Makhachev’s toughest fight to date. Nurmagomedov thinks Makhachev can only grow from a back-and-forth battle such as that, which was a nominee for the 2024 Fight of the Year.
“Sometimes from a difficult fight, you take so much knowledge,” Nurmagomedov continued. “You can watch what you do, what you do wrong, way you can be better. There are so many things you can learn, and I think from this fight, Islam is going to learn a lot, and next fight we will see.”
Makhachev will look to surpass Nurmagomedov’s record for most lightweight title defenses when he fights Renato Moicano (20-5-1 MMA, 12-5 UFC) on a day’s notice in the UFC 311 main event. He was set to rematch Arman Tsarukyan (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) in Inglewood, Calif., but Tsarukyan pulled out Friday.
For more on the card, visit MMA Junkie’s event hub for UFC 311.
Be sure to visit the MMA Junkie Instagram page and YouTube channel to discuss this and more content with fans of mixed martial arts.
Fighting or coaching against Dustin Poirier: Khabib Nurmagomedov shares his thoughtsKhabib Nurmagomedov, the retired UFC lightweight champion, recently opened up about the challenges of facing Dustin Poirier in the Octagon versus coaching against him in a corner.
In an interview with MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, Khabib detailed his experiences of both fighting and coaching against Poirier. He admitted that fighting Poirier was undoubtedly tougher physically and mentally, citing the high stakes and pressure that come with being inside the cage.
“When you’re fighting someone like Dustin Poirier, you have to be completely focused and ready for anything. He’s a talented and well-rounded fighter who can test you in every aspect of the game,” Khabib said.
However, Khabib also pointed out that coaching against Poirier presented its own set of challenges. As a coach, he had to strategize, analyze his opponent’s strengths and weaknesses, and make split-second decisions that could ultimately determine the outcome of the fight.
“Coaching against Poirier requires a different kind of mental toughness. You have to be constantly thinking ahead, anticipating his moves, and guiding your fighter to victory. It’s a different kind of pressure, but equally as intense,” Khabib explained.
Ultimately, Khabib emphasized that both fighting and coaching against Poirier were demanding in their own ways. Whether inside the cage or in the corner, facing off against a skilled opponent like Poirier required unwavering focus, determination, and skill.
As for his future in the sport, Khabib has yet to announce any plans for a potential return to competition. In the meantime, fans can only speculate about what the future holds for the retired champion and his potential matchups against fighters like Poirier.
Tags:
Khabib Nurmagomedov, Dustin Poirier, UFC, MMA, fighting, coaching, training, difficulty, comparison, championship fight, lightweight division, mixed martial arts
#Khabib #details #fighting #coaching #Dustin #Poirier #harderHow diving made Anthony Smith realize he’s not done fighting
Former UFC title challenger Anthony Smith still has some fight left in him.
Smith (38-21 MMA, 13-11 UFC) contemplated retirement after a TKO loss to Dominick Reyes last month at UFC 310. It was an emotional fight for Smith, who had recently lost his longtime friend and coach, Scott Morton.
However, a particular moment during Smith’s recent trip to Puerto Rico changed his entire outlook on the future.
“In that moment, I almost did just retire right then. But what I didn’t want to do is make a decision based on emotions,” Smith said on his “On Paper with Anthony Smith” podcast. “While I was in Puerto Rico, I was diving with a stranger, which is a little bit uncomfortable, so you’re super hyper-focused. I was 70 feet underwater, looking at this incredible scenery around me.
“And I was able to let in something small like, ‘OK b*tch, you’re down here, the world is shut out, what are you going to do?’ And that’s when I decided. It was when I was diving. It was the only time that I was able to shut the entire world out and focus on this one thing and then just let in a little bit of like, ‘What are you going to do with your life? What’s your plan?”
Smith was so overcome with emotions during his fight with Reyes that he dropped his hands and asked to be punched during the fight. Considering the circumstances he was dealing with before and during the fight, “Lionheart” would like to give himself a fair shake before calling it a career.
“My first thought was, ‘I can’t go out like that,’ like, crying on my walkout and then getting into the octagon, and I’m bawling, and I can’t look at my kids because I’m too upset,” Smith said. “Then letting a guy punch me in the face because I just want to feel something other than grief.
“You can’t retire like that. I’m not even saying I need a win. I just need some circumstances that are a little bit favorable would be nice. If I can just get a training camp where no one dies, that would be cool. That would be a positive. Go in and just give it my all for seven, eight weeks, get into the best shape I can, and go have a fun fight, see what happens, and then we get the hell out of here.”
Be sure to visit the MMA Junkie Instagram page and YouTube channel to discuss this and more content with fans of mixed martial arts.
Diving is a sport that requires immense physical and mental strength, as well as a willingness to push oneself beyond their limits. For UFC fighter Anthony Smith, diving served as a stark reminder that he still has plenty of fight left in him.During a recent training session, Smith decided to try his hand at diving for the first time. As he stood at the edge of the diving board, fear and doubt crept in. But as he took the plunge and felt the rush of adrenaline, he knew that he was capable of so much more than he had previously believed.
The experience of diving pushed Smith to confront his own insecurities and self-doubt, and to realize that he still has a fire burning within him to compete and succeed. It was a powerful moment of self-discovery that reignited his passion for fighting and reminded him that he is not done yet.
As he emerged from the water, dripping wet but with a newfound sense of determination, Smith knew that he had found a new source of motivation to keep pushing forward in his career. Diving had shown him that he still has what it takes to overcome challenges and achieve greatness in the octagon.
So, next time you see Anthony Smith step into the cage, remember that it was diving that made him realize he’s not done fighting – and that he’s more determined and hungry for victory than ever before.
Tags:
diving, Anthony Smith, fighting, MMA, professional fighter, career, realization, sports, determination, motivation, perseverance, athlete, mindset, competition, self-discovery, challenge, victory, resilience, strength
#diving #Anthony #Smith #realize #hes #fightingSyracuse Orange vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish: How to watch NCAA Basketball online, TV channel, live stream info, start time
Halftime Report
Notre Dame needs a win to get to even, but right now it’s anybody’s game. They have jumped out to a quick 42-33 lead against Syracuse.
If Notre Dame keeps playing like this, they’ll bump their record up to 9-9 in no time. On the other hand, Syracuse will have to make due with an 8-10 record unless they turn things around (and fast).
Who’s Playing
Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ Syracuse Orange
Current Records: Notre Dame 8-9, Syracuse 8-9
How To Watch
- When: Saturday, January 18, 2025 at 4 p.m. ET
- Where: JMA Wireless Dome — Syracuse, New York
- TV: ACC Network
- Follow: CBS Sports App
- Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
- Ticket Cost: $4.00
What to Know
We’ve got another exciting ACC matchup on schedule as the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Syracuse Orange are set to tip at 4:00 p.m. ET on Saturday at JMA Wireless Dome. The Fighting Irish are no doubt hoping to put an end to a four-game streak of away losses.
Having struggled with four losses in a row, Notre Dame finally turned things around against Boston College on Monday. They took down the Eagles 78-60.
Notre Dame can attribute much of their success to Tae Davis, who went 9 for 14 en route to 26 points. Davis’ performance made up for a slower match against Duke on Saturday. The team also got some help courtesy of Kebba Njie, who almost dropped a double-double on 11 points and nine rebounds.
Notre Dame smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 17 offensive rebounds. That’s the most offensive rebounds they’ve posted since back in November of 2024.
Meanwhile, Syracuse suffered a grim 85-61 defeat to Louisville on Tuesday.
Despite their loss, Syracuse saw several players rise to the challenge and make noteworthy plays. Eddie Lampkin Jr., who dropped a double-double on 11 points and ten rebounds, was perhaps the best of all. Lampkin Jr. is on a roll when it comes to rebounds, as he’s now pulled down ten or more in the last three games he’s played. Another player making a difference was Jyare Davis, who scored ten points along with eight rebounds.
Notre Dame’s victory bumped their record up to 8-9. As for Syracuse, they now also have a losing record at 8-9.
Keep an eye on the arc in Saturday’s game: Notre Dame has been dynamite from deep this season, having made 36.8% of their threes per game. It’s a different story for Syracuse, though, as they’ve only made 29.4% of their threes this season. Given Notre Dame’s sizable advantage in that area, Syracuse will need to find a way to close that gap.
Looking forward, Notre Dame is the favorite in this one, as the experts expect to see them win by 3.5 points. They might be worth a quick bet since they’ve covered the spread the last four times they’ve played.
Odds
Notre Dame is a 3.5-point favorite against Syracuse, according to the latest college basketball odds.
The oddsmakers were right in line with the betting community on this one, as the game opened as a 3.5-point spread, and stayed right there.
The over/under is 146.5 points.
See college basketball picks for every single game, including this one, from SportsLine’s advanced computer model. Get picks now.
Series History
Syracuse has won 6 out of their last 10 games against Notre Dame.
- Dec 07, 2024 – Notre Dame 69 vs. Syracuse 64
- Feb 24, 2024 – Syracuse 88 vs. Notre Dame 85
- Jan 14, 2023 – Syracuse 78 vs. Notre Dame 73
- Dec 03, 2022 – Syracuse 62 vs. Notre Dame 61
- Feb 23, 2022 – Notre Dame 79 vs. Syracuse 69
- Feb 20, 2021 – Syracuse 75 vs. Notre Dame 67
- Jan 22, 2020 – Syracuse 84 vs. Notre Dame 82
- Jan 04, 2020 – Notre Dame 88 vs. Syracuse 87
- Jan 05, 2019 – Syracuse 72 vs. Notre Dame 62
- Jan 06, 2018 – Notre Dame 51 vs. Syracuse 49
The Syracuse Orange will take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a highly anticipated NCAA Basketball matchup. If you’re looking to catch all the action, here’s how you can watch the game online, on TV, or via live stream:Date: Saturday, January 22, 2022
Start Time: 2:00 PM ET
TV Channel: The game will be televised on ESPN.Live Stream: You can stream the game live on the ESPN app or on WatchESPN.com with a cable or streaming service login.
Don’t miss out on this exciting matchup between two powerhouse teams. Tune in to see the Syracuse Orange take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in what is sure to be a thrilling game of college basketball.
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- NCAA Basketball online
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#Syracuse #Orange #Notre #Dame #Fighting #Irish #watch #NCAA #Basketball #online #channel #live #stream #info #start #time
CFP Championship Game – A Historical Perspective – Notre Dame Fighting Irish – Official Athletics Website
By Alan Wasielewski
Notre Dame’s drive to the College Football National Championship game has brought the nation’s most storied program back to the forefront of the national sports scene. The 2024 version of the Fighting Irish have paved their own way to the national title game and are writing their own unique story that is already a worthy addition to the lore of Notre Dame Football.
As the team looks to join Alabama as the only college football programs to win a national title in seven different decades on Monday night in Atlanta, it is a perfect time to look at the 2024 season from a historical perspective and analyze some similarities from previous iterations of Irish football. Some of the anomalies are uncanny, invoking thoughts of ‘history repeating itself,’ while others prove how special the achievements of the 2024 team have become.
THIRD-SEASON MAGIC
The playoff run of three consecutive wins lends itself to an inescapable historical theme of Notre Dame head coaches winning a national title in their third season on campus.
Frank Leahy won a national title in his third season (1943), as did Ara Pareseghian (1966), Dan Devine (1977) and Lou Holtz (1988). Brian Kelly’s third Notre Dame team played for a national title in 2012.
It took Knute Rockne seven years to win his first title, but his third team in 1920 could have put together a national title argument in a time when there was no definitive way to determine the best team in the country. The ‘20 Irish, led by George Gipp before his untimely death late in the season due to pneumonia, outscored their opponents 251-44 and won at Nebraska and Army while also taking out a 5-2 Indiana team on a neutral field in Indianapolis.
1943
Leahy’s third-year team was led by the first of Notre Dame’s seven Heisman Trophy winners, Angelo Bertelli. The ‘43 team went wire-to-wire as the nation’s top-ranked team with wins over No. 2 Michigan, No. 3 Navy, No. 3 Army, No. 8 Northwestern and No. 2 Iowa Pre-Flight (the last four in consecutive weeks). Great Lakes tripped Notre Dame up in the final game of the season but by then the Irish had already established themselves as the best team in the nation.
There is a connection between the 2024 team and that legendary ‘43 team. This year’s Irish squad is the only Notre Dame team since the 1943 championship group to beat at least three consecutive top-10 opponents (No. 9 Indiana, No. 2 Georgia and No. 5 Penn State).
1966
Ara Parseghian just missed a national title in his first season with the Irish in 1964, as an upset in the final game at Southern Cal denied the Irish an improbable turnaround from a 2-7 effort in 1963. That loss was avenged in Parseghian’s third year, however, when a 51-0 demolition of the Trojans in Los Angeles left little doubt who was the top team in the nation in 1966.
1977
In the ‘uncanny’ realm of historical coincidences, the 2024 Notre Dame path to a national championship game is eerily similar to the third-year under Dan Devine in 1977. Coming off a Gator Bowl victory over Penn State to end the 1976 season, the Irish were ranked No. 3 in the nation but lost their second game of the season in sweltering heat at unranked Mississippi.
The 1977 Fighting Irish had two excellent running backs in Jerome Heavens and Vagas Ferguson, along with all-star tight end Ken MacAfee who finished third in Heisman Trophy balloting that year. The ‘24 team is powered by a talented backfield that features Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price along with its own talented tight end, Mitchell Evans.
Joe Montana took over as the starting quarterback for the ‘77 team against Michigan State and big wins over No. 5 Southern Cal at home, at No. 15 Clemson and a destruction of No. 1 Texas 38-10 in the Cotton Bowl vaulted the Irish from No. 5 to No. 1 after all the postseason games were played.
Special recognitions should be given to Washington and Warren Moon, who upset No. 4 Michigan 27-20 in the Rose Bowl and an Arkansas team, led by Lou Holtz, who upset No. 2 and previously undefeated Oklahoma 31-6 in the Orange Bowl that allowed Notre Dame’s epic jump up in the final poll.
1988
Holtz moved from Arkansas to Minnesota before taking over at Notre Dame in 1986. His second Irish team rose as high as fourth and then moved up to seventh again in ‘87 after a victory over No. 10 Alabama. It was his third year, however, when the Irish broke through for their 11th consensus national title with a run-first quarterback and swarming defense that featured a big-play safety who started his career as wide receiver.
That run-first quarterback for the 1988 title team, Tony Rice, rushed 700 yards then set the Notre Dame single-season quarterback record of 884 yards in 1989. This season’s starting quarterback, Riley Leonard, is just 18 yards off of Rice’s mark with 866 yards heading into the Ohio State game.
It should be pointed out, however, that prior to 2002 the NCAA did not count bowl stats for season statistical records. Rice ran for 50 yards in the 1990 Orange Bowl against top-ranked Colorado, perhaps making the true single-season quarterback rushing record 934 yards.
The wide receiver turned big-play safety in 1988 was Pat Terrell, forever known for his denial of a two-point conversion against No. 1 Miami FL that season. The 2024 big play safety for Notre Dame is consensus All-American and 2023 Nagurski Awardwinner Xavier Watts, who also began his Irish career catching passes and his penchant for game-turning plays – that included a 100-yard interception return at Southern Cal – continues to power the Irish defense.
There is another historical call back between the 1988 and 2024 teams. Notre Dame’s offensive line has dealt with a myriad of injuries this season, forcing the Irish to deploy three different starting lineups (with a fourth looming as starting left tackle for the entire season, Anthonie Knapp, will miss the national championship game due to injury).
The 1988 team also was challenged at key times on its offensive line. Injuries to guards Tim Grunhard and Tim Ryan saw Mike Brennan and Joe Allen step up in the legendary victory over top-ranked Miami FL in October. Brennan, who joined the team as a walk-on and earned a scholarship before the ‘88 season, also started due to an injury situation in the Fiesta Bowl title game win over No. 3 West Virginia.
TWO TITLES, TWO SPORTS
You can also draw a connecting line between Mike Brennan and current Irish student-athletes Jordan Faison and Tyler Buchner. Brennan was a stand out lacrosse player in high school and saw action in 10 games for the Notre Dame lacrosse team in 1987. Faison and Buchner are hoping to become the first college football players to win a national title in men’s lacrosse and football on Monday night.
Faison played in all 17 games, scoring 22 goals with eight assists, for the 2024 Irish men’s lacrosse team that finished 16-1 and won its second consecutive national championship. Buchner saw action in 11 games as a defender for Kevin Corrigan’s team in ‘24.
There have been some previous Notre Dame football players who have come close to national titles in two different sports. Dick Arrington finished third at the 1965 NCAA wrestling meet while Bob Golic earned a fourth-place finish in 1977 and improved to third-place in 1978. Notre Dame discontinued its wrestling program in 1992.
Raghib ‘Rocket’ Ismail, a member of the ‘88 title team, was an All-American sprinter for the Notre Dame track and field team and finished second in the 1991 NCAA Indoor 55-meter sprint.
ALREADY HISTORIC
No matter the outcome on Monday night, the 2024 Notre Dame football team has already accomplished a number of ‘firsts’ in program history. The modern iteration of college football lends itself to more games and opportunities to achieve records and noteworthy statistical numbers. There have been a number of trailblazing achievements by the Irish this season.
- Notre Dame will play 16 games in 2024, three more than any Irish football team has played before. They also will play on the latest date in a season (January 20th of the next calendar year) and are the first Notre Dame football team to compete and win a game in six consecutive months.
- In those six consecutive months of competition, Notre Dame is the first college football program to defeat a ranked team in each of them:
- No. 7 Texas A&M on Aug. 31
- No. 15 Louisville on Sept. 28
- No. 24 Navy on Oct. 26
- No. 18 Army on November 18
- No. 9 Indiana in December 20
- No. 2 Georgia on Jan. 2
- No. 5 Penn State on Jan. 9
- The seven ranked wins for the Irish this season are the most of any FBS team and the most in the history of the program for a single year, surpassing the six ranked wins by the 1989 team.
- The 14 wins for the Irish in 2024 are the most in a single season in program history.
- In keeping with the No. 14 theme, the victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl is the 14th win of the Marcus Freeman era at Notre Dame, more than any other Irish head coach in his first four years at the school and is tied with Georgia for the most of any FBS program over the past three seasons.
- Notre Dame boasts four consecutive bowl victories – the 2023 Gator Bowl, 2024 Sun Bowl, 2025 Sugar Bowl and 2025 Orange Bowl – which is the best run in school history and will continue into the 2025 season. The previous best bowl win streaks was three twice from 1992-94 (Sugar, Cotton twice) and 1975-79 (Orange, Cotton twice).
- Notre Dame will play their fifth Big Ten Conference team in the national title game when they face No. 6 Ohio State. The ‘24 team has claimed wins over Purdue, Southern Cal, Indiana and Penn State. It marks the first time since 1968 the Irish will face five teams from the Big Ten. The ‘68 squad finished 3-2 against the Big Ten slate.
- Anthonie Knapp became the first true freshman to start more than 13 games in a season (he started the first 15 games) in 2024. Sam Young (2006), KeiVarae Russell (2012) and Jaylon Smith (2013) each started 13 games in their rookie years.
- Riley Leonard, Jeremiyah Love, Beaux Collins, Aamil Wagner, Jack Kiser, Drayk Bowen, Adon Shuler and Xavier Watts will all push their program record for starts in a season to 16 when the Irish take the field against Ohio State.
- Jeremiyah Love scored at least one rushing touchdown in the first 13 games of the season. That set a new program standard for consecutive games with a rushing touchdown and also was the best streak ever to start a season.
- Riley Leonard’s 16 rushing touchdowns are the most for an Irish quarterback in a single season. Leonard’s 16 scores also rank fifth on the career list for rushing touchdowns by a single caller at Notre Dame and he has rushed for more touchdowns in an Irish uniform than legendary quarterbacks Terry Hanratty (voted into the College Football Hall of Fame this week), Joe Theismann, Paul Hornung and Joe Montana.
- Jack Kiser has started all 15 games in 2024 and will be playing in his program-record 70th game on Monday night.
- Xavier Watts became the 17th Notre Dame player to repeat as a Consensus All-American and joined Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter from Colorado as the only two Consensus All-American repeats in the country this season.
In a program that prides itself on both its tradition and its place in the current landscape of college football, the 2024 team has already paid tribute to the past through its performance this season and is poised to write another legendary accomplishment into the record books when they face Ohio State in the College Football Playoff Championship game in Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday, January 20.
The College Football Playoff (CFP) Championship Game is just around the corner, and as fans gear up for the highly anticipated matchup, let’s take a look back at the history of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in the championship game.The Fighting Irish have a rich history in college football, with a total of 11 national championships to their name. They have made multiple appearances in championship games, including the BCS National Championship Game in 2012, where they fell to the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Notre Dame’s most recent appearance in the CFP Championship Game was in 2021, where they faced off against the Alabama Crimson Tide once again. Despite a hard-fought battle, the Fighting Irish ultimately came up short, but their presence in the championship game was a testament to the program’s enduring legacy.
As the Fighting Irish prepare to take on their next opponent in the CFP Championship Game, fans can look forward to another thrilling matchup and a chance to add another championship to Notre Dame’s storied history. Stay tuned to the official Notre Dame Athletics website for all the latest news and updates leading up to the big game. Go Irish! #CFPChampionshipGame #GoIrish
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#CFP #Championship #Game #Historical #Perspective #Notre #Dame #Fighting #Irish #Official #Athletics #WebsiteChris Weidman announces retirement – MMA Fighting
Chris Weidman has fought for the last time.
The former UFC middleweight champion officially announced his retirement during Friday’s UFC 311 weigh-in show.
“Since I decided to get into this sport, since 2009, the goal was to be a UFC fighter,” Weidman said. “Then immediately the goal was to be a UFC world champion. Fourteen years later, I’m here and I’m here to tell you guys I’m hanging up the gloves in the UFC. I’m no longer going to be fighting for the organization that changed my life in so many ways. I’m just super appreciative to everybody that got me here.”
Weidman, 40, finishes his pro career with a 16-8 record, including a 12-8 record in the UFC. He scored one of the most memorable title fight victories in MMA history when he upset middleweight champion Anderson Silva at UFC 162 in July 2013. Silva had won 17 straight fights heading into that contest and Weidman shocked the world when he finished Silva via strikes in the second round.
“The All-American” defeated Silva in the rematch (Silva broke his leg in the fight) and went on to successfully defend it against Lyoto Machida and Vitor Belfort. He dropped the belt to Luke Rockhold at UFC 194 and saw mixed results for the remainder of his career.
In April 2021, Weidman suffered a freak leg injury in a fight against Uriah Hall that threatened to end his career, but he returned to fight in his native New York at UFC 292 over two years later. Though he lost to Brad Tavares, he rebounded with a decision win over Bruno Silva, before losing to Eryk Anders at UFC 310 this past December, which would turn out to be the final fight of his career.
“It’s been a ride,” Weidman said. “From being an undefeated world champion and being able to beat one of the greatest of all time in Anderson Silva, and then being able to defend my belt three times against some of the greatest legends of the sport. Even from the amount I’ve learned about myself in dealing with adversity and injuries, I’ve had 30 surgeries. I put my body through a lot and to be able to overcome a lot of that was always tough.
“I’m just proud that the UFC gave me an outlet to compete against some of the best guys in the world. I’m proud of the résumé and the type of guys I was able to fight, I respect them all so much.”
Weidman was a standout wrestler for Hofstra University and was viewed as a blue chip prospect coming out of the Serra-Longo Fight Team in Long Island, N.Y. He made his UFC debut with just four pro bouts under his belt and defeated 24-fight veteran Alessio Sakara in his first octagon appearance.
Though Weidman is leaving a hint of a possibility that he might fight again, he sounds content with his decision for now.
“It’s weird, it’s kind of part of your identity,” Weidman said. “You’ve got to move on, so I’m opening up the new chapter of my life and I’m excited about the future and I’m leaving the door open for opportunities, any big opportunities out there, but we’re moving on to see my life develop in different ways.”
After a long and successful career in the world of mixed martial arts, former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman has announced his retirement from the sport. Weidman made the announcement on social media, thanking his fans, family, and team for their support throughout his career.Weidman, 37, made his professional MMA debut in 2009 and quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the top middleweights in the world. He captured the UFC middleweight title in 2013 by defeating long-reigning champion Anderson Silva and successfully defended the belt three times before losing it to Luke Rockhold in 2015.
Throughout his career, Weidman faced some of the toughest competition in the sport, including wins over the likes of Vitor Belfort, Lyoto Machida, and Kelvin Gastelum. He also suffered some setbacks, including a devastating leg injury in a fight against Uriah Hall in 2021.
Despite his injuries and setbacks, Weidman remained a fan favorite for his exciting fighting style and never-say-die attitude. He retires with a professional record of 15 wins and 6 losses and will always be remembered as one of the greats in the sport.
Fans and fellow fighters have been quick to congratulate Weidman on his retirement and wish him well in his future endeavors. Weidman has not yet announced his plans for the future, but it is clear that he will be missed in the world of MMA.
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#Chris #Weidman #announces #retirement #MMA #Fighting
Fighting Illini Head East for Thursday Clash With Indiana
Illinois Starters Last Game
Pos. No. Name Ht. Yr. PPG RPG APG SPG BPG Season Note
G 1 Genesis Bryant 5-6 5th 14.4 3.6 2.9 1.2 0.1 Became the 34th player in program history to score 1,000 points as an Illini
G 8 Jasmine Brown-Hagger 5-9 So. 9.8 2.2 2.1 1.1 0.0 Has scored in double figures three times since entering the starting lineup on Dec. 12
G 24 Adalia McKenzie 5-10 Sr. 13.1 4.8 2.6 1.2 0.1 Posted her first double-double of the season at Canisius on Dec. 2
F 23 Brynn Shoup-Hill 6-3 Sr. 4.8 6.6 1.1 0.4 1.0 Equaled her career-best mark with three blocks vs. Southern Indiana on Dec. 15
F 44 Kendall Bostic 6-2 5th 15.7 11.3 1.4 0.5 0.9 Ranks second in program history in career double-doubles and rebounds
Head Coach Shauna Green
Career Record: 209-104 (.668), 11th season
Division I Record: 180-79 (.695), Ninth season
At Illinois: 52-29 (.646), Third season
Big Ten Record: 21-20 (.512), Third seasonOPENING TIP
The 51st campaign of Fighting Illini women’s basketball resumes with Illinois taking on Indiana away from home on Thursday at 6 p.m. CT on Peacock. Mike Koon will call the action for the Illini on the Busey Bank Illini Sports Network (1400 AM / 93.9 FM). Streaming, audio and stats links are also available at FightingIllini.com/wbb.
- Illinois won 10 games before Christmas (Dec. 25) for the first time since 2022-23 and for the second time since 2006-07.
- Illinois has earned a win over a ranked opponent for the third consecutive season under Green.
- Head coach Shauna Green earned her 200th win as a head coach on Nov. 14, 2024 vs. Eastern Illinois.
- The Fighting Illini have now been ranked in the Top 25 in all three seasons under Green.
- Illinois faced a ranked team in its Big Ten opener for the third straight season (#12/7 Ohio State, –/25 Michigan, #5/4 Indiana).
- Illinois returned four 1,000-career point scorers, tied for the most in the NCAA with Baylor, Notre Dame, and Kansas State.
- Illinois has won two Top-25 games in the same season for the first time since 2014-15.
- Illinois’ seniors (Cook, Bryant, McKenzie, Shoup-Hill, Bostic) have a combined 421 career starts (395 at Illinois) and played a combined 563 games (435 at Illinois).
- Kendall Bostic’s 1,238 career rebounds rank second of all active NCAA D1 players.
- Illinois’ free throws made per game mark of 16.3 ranks 14th in the NCAA.
- Illinois’ 12.8 turnovers per game rank 21st in the NCAA.
- Illinois’ free throw percentage of 79.3% ranks 6th in the NCAA and leads the Big Ten.
- Eight different Illini scorers have posted double-digit points in a game this season: Bostic, Bryant, Brown-Hagger, Cook, Dolan, McKenzie, Shoup-Hill, Wallace.
- The Fighting Illini return eight players from last year’s WBIT Championship team while adding six newcomers – four freshmen and two transfers – into the mix.
ABOUT THE OPPONENT
Indiana, winners of eight of its last nine games, enters Thursday’s contest with a 12-4 record and a 4-1 mark in conference play. The Hoosiers are 7-2 on their home court this season, which includes a victory over No. 24 Stanford.
With six players averaging at least nine points per game, Indiana is led by head coach Teri Moren, who is in her 11th season at the helm of the Hoosier program.
ALL-TIME SERIES INFORMATION
Thursday’s game marks the 81st meeting between the sides, with Indiana holding a 49-31 edge in the all-time series. Though Illinois won last year’s game in Champaign, the Hoosiers have won the last nine contests against the Illini in Bloomington. Indiana is 28-10 when hosting Illinois, with the Illini looking for their first road win against the Hoosiers since Feb. 12, 2012.
Since head coach Shauna Green took over at Illinois, both games played between the Illini and the Hoosiers at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall have been decided by six points or fewer.
LAST TIME OUT
Illinois earned its second ranked win of the season with a 62-57 victory over No. 23 Iowa at State Farm Center on Jan. 9.
Four Fighting Illini scorers finished in double figures as the Orange and Blue took down the ranked Hawkeyes and improved to 10-1 at home during the 2024-25 campaign.
Kendall Bostic secured her 10th double-double of the season, registering 17 points and 14 rebounds in the win. Going 8-for-12 from the field, Bostic also dished out three assists, made two steals, and bagged two blocks.
Scoring in double figures for the seventh-straight game, Adalia McKenzie ended the evening with 12 points, four rebounds, three assists, and a steal while playing lockdown defense from start to finish.
Genesis Bryant logged nine of her 12 points in the second half, including seven points in the fourth quarter alone. Bryant also amassed a season-high four steals, three rebounds, and two assists.
Jasmine Brown-Hagger tallied 10 points, three assists, and a steal, while Berry Wallace collected seven points off the bench.
ILLINI CONTINUE TO BATTLE DESPITE INJURY BUG
Through the team’s first 16 games of the season, Illinois has yet to have its full 14-player roster available. Holding an 12-4 record despite those setbacks, the Illini have remained resilient while battling injury issues throughout the first half of the campaign.
Seven different players have missed at least one game due to injury this season, including sophomore transfer center Lety Vasconcelos, who was expected to be a key piece in the rotation before suffering a season-ending ACL tear over the summer. On Jan. 8, the program announced that fifth-year Makira Cook (ongoing health condition) and sophomore Gretchen Dolan (knee) would both miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Five-star freshman guard Berry Wallace (hand) missed seven of the first eight games, while junior forward Shay Bollin, who played in 29 games for the Illini last season, has yet to make an appearance during the 2024-25 campaign. Freshman Irene Noya Catoira sat out the first seven games of the year while recovering from injury, while guard Jasmine Brown-Hagger, who has since moved into the starting lineup, missed three games while working her way back from a concussion.
GREEN CONTINUES TO CLIMB PROGRAM’S ALL-TIME WIN LIST
Third-year head coach Shauna Green continues to move up the program’s all-time wins list. After the Fighting Illini defeated No. 23 Iowa on Jan. 9, Green posted her 53rd win at the helm of the program, which currently ranks as the sixth-most victories by an Illinois women’s basketball head coach.
ALL-TIME WINS BY ILLINOIS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL HEAD COACHES
Rank Illini Head Coach Wins Number of Seasons Tenure
1 Theresa Grentz 210 12 1995-2007
2 Laura Golden 83 6 1984-1990
3 Jane Schroeder 73 5 1979-1984
4 Jolette Law 69 5 2007-2012
5 Matt Bollant 61 5 2012-2017
6 Shauna Green 53 3 (Active) 2022-Present
7 Kathy Lindsey 50 5 1990-1995
8 Nancy Fahey 42 5 2017-2022
9 Carla Thompson 33 3 1976-1979
10 Steven Douglas 25 3 1974-1976
RANKED WINS UNDER COACH GREEN
For the first time since the 2014-15 campaign, the Fighting Illini have secured multiple ranked wins in a season following Illinois’ 62-57 home win over No. 23 Iowa on Jan. 9. The Orange and Blue defeated No. 19 Florida State, 83-74, at State Farm Center on Nov. 7 to open the 2024-25 regular season.
The victory marked the fourth such triumph under third-year head coach Shauna Green, who guided the Illini to ranked wins over No. 12 Iowa (Jan. 1, 2023) during the 2022-23 slate and No. 14 Indiana (Feb. 19, 2024) during the team’s 2023-24 schedule.
RANKED WINS UNDER HEAD COACH SHAUNA GREEN
Date Opponent Score Location
Jan. 1, 2023 No. 12 Iowa 90-86 State Farm Center
Feb. 19, 2024 No. 14 Indiana 86-66 State Farm Center
Nov. 7, 2024 No. 19 Florida State 83-74 State Farm Center
Jan. 9, 2025 No. 23 Iowa 62-57 State Farm Center
ILLINOIS FINISHES NONCONFERENCE SLATE WITH 10 WINS
For just the fourth time in program history, Illinois registered 10 wins in nonconference play, equaling the program’s all-time record. The Fighting Illini last achieved the feat during the 2022-23 campaign in head coach Shauna Green‘s first season at the helm.
The Orange and Blue secured a 10-1 record against nonconference opponents, a stretch that included eight victories at home. Illinois opened its 2024-25 slate with a five-game homestand that featured three teams that played in the 2024 NCAA Tournament. Opening the season with a statement win over No. 19 Florida State, the Illini also earned triumphs against Marquette, Eastern Illinois, Le Moyne, and Oregon State in the team’s 5-0 start.
After going 1-1 at the Music City Classic with a victory over UMES and a loss to No. 14 Kentucky, Illinois closed its nonconference schedule without five more triumphs, a stretch that began with a road win over Canisius. Returning to State Farm Center, the Orange and Blue rattled off wins over Bradley, Southern Indiana, and Southern to move to 10-1 in nonconference play.
BOSTIC RANKS AMONG BEST IN THE NCAA
Fifth-year forward Kendall Bostic ranks in the top 10 in the NCAA in four statistical categories – double-doubles, defensive rebounding average, rebounding average, and total rebounds – in addition to being in the top 61 in field goals,field-goal percentage, and minutes per game. Bostic ranks third in the Big Ten in minutes played per game, unheard of for a post player.
BOSTIC RANKS AMONG BEST IN THE NCAA
Stat Category NCAA Rank B1G Rank Value
Defensive Rebounds Per Game 3rd 1st 8.9
Double-doubles 6th 1st 10
Rebounds Per Game 6th 1st 11.3
Rebounds 10th 2nd 180
Field Goal Percentage 38th 5th 54.7
Field Goals 59th 7th 110
Minutes Per Game 61st 3rd 34.152
GREEN BECOMES JOINT-FASTEST ILLINI COACH TO 50 WINS
With Illinois’ 73-50 win over Southern Indiana on Dec. 15, third-year head coach Shauna Green secured her 50th win at the helm of the program. Needing only 77 games to achieve that feat, Green became the joint-fastest Fighting Illini women’s basketball coach in program history to reach 50 victories, tying the record that was set by Hall of Fame coach Theresa Grentz.
- T1. 77 games: Shauna Green
- T1. 77 games: Theresa Grentz
- 3. 83 games: Laura Golden
- 4. 94 games: Jane Schroeder
- 5. 102 games: Matt Bollant
- 6. 103 games: Jolette Law
- 7. 132 games: Kathy Lindsey
HOME-COURT ADVANTAGE
Starting the season 9-0 at home, Illinois won 13 consecutive games in State Farm Center between the end of the 2023-24 campaign and the first nine home games of the 2024-25 schedule. The streak ranks as the second-longest such stretch in program history and was the second-longest active streak in the Big Ten prior to the Illini’s defeat against Washington on Dec. 31. Illinois is 33-9 in home games under Shauna Green.
ILLINOIS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL LONGEST HOME WIN STREAKS
Streak First Win Last Win Illini Head Coach
18 games 12/20/1997 1/5/1999 Theresa Grentz
13 games 2/19/2024 12/28/2024 Shauna Green
11 games 2/14/1986 1/30/1987 Laura Golden
10 games 11/20/1981 1/29/1982 Jane Schroeder
GREEN BECOMES FASTEST ILLINI COACH TO REACH 30 HOME WINS
With the Fighting Illini’s 70-52 victory over Bradley at State Farm Center on Dec. 12, Illinois moved to 30-8 in home games under third-year head coach Shauna Green. Needing only 38 home games to reach the 30-win mark, Green became the fastest Illini head coach to achieve the feat in program history, surpassing the previous mark by one game.
Green’s 2022-23 squad went 12-3 at State Farm Center in the first season under Green’s guidance, while last year’s 2023-24 Fighting Illini team recorded 12 home wins for the second-consecutive season, including two wins in the squad’s postseason run to the inaugural WBIT title. With the Orange and Blue starting 6-0 at State Farm Center during the 2024-25 campaign, the Illini clinched 30 home wins in the span of just 38 games under Green.
COACH GREEN RETURNS TO HER ALMA MATER
The No. 21-ranked Illini picked up their first true road win of the season on Dec. 2 in a 68-55 victory over Canisius as Illinois third-year head coach Shauna Green returned to her alma mater. The Fighting Illini were the first-ever Division I ranked team to play at the Golden Griffins’ Koessler Athletic Center.
Illinois forced a season-high 23 Canisius turnovers and scored 18 points off those takeaways, while the Orange and Blue led for a total of 39:33 in the contest and did not trail.
For the first time in her career as both an assistant and head coach, Shauna Green (the former Shauna Geronzin), coached against her alma mater, Canisius, on Nov. 26, 2023. The Illini won, 90-58.
Illinois made a return trip to Canisius during the team’s 2024-25 slate, with the Illini posting a 68-55 road win on Dec. 2.
Wearing No. 34 for the Griffs from 1998-2002, Green scored 2,012 career points, the most of any men’s or women’s player – a record which still stands. She also became the program’s all-time leading rebounder with 910 boards – a mark that now ranks second. Green was named 1999 MAAC Rookie of the Year and was also voted 2002 Canisius Female Athlete of the Year. She was a four-time All-MAAC selection and three-time All- MAAC First-Team honoree. She was enshrined into the Canisius Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.
ILLINI EARN SPOT IN AP POLL FOR FOUR CONSECUTIVE WEEKS
Fighting Illini women’s basketball was ranked in the Associated Press Top-25 Poll for four consecutive weeks and earned spots in the Weeks 2-5 polls.
The highest Illinois has been ranked under Green was the team’s 2024-25 Week 4 No. 19 mark, while the previous high of No. 21 came back during the 2022-23 campaign. The highest ranking in program history is No. 5, which came on Dec. 8, 1997.
Illinois has been ranked in nine combined AP polls under Green. In 2022-23, the Illini appeared in four Top-25 polls, followed by the preseason rankings in 2023-24, and most recently the Week 2-5 polls in 2024-25.
The Illini have now appeared in 72 AP polls all-time across 11 different seasons.
Week 2: No. 23
Week 3: No. 22
Week 4: No. 19
Week 5: No. 21BOSTIC EARNS FIRST-CAREER B1G PLAYER OF THE WEEK AWARD (NOV. 25)
Kendall Bostic delivered a spectacular Week 2 performance on the court to earn the first Big Ten Player of the Week award of her career. The fifth-year senior led the Illini to a 2-0 week after averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds, and one steal while posting zero turnovers as the Fighting Illini climbed to 5-0 after downing their third 2024 NCAA Tournament team of the season.
The Kokomo, Ind., native shot 83.9% from the floor on 26-of-31 attempts and connected on all four of her free-throw attempts. No other Big Ten player was more efficient at a high volume than Bostic, as she made more combined field goals across the week (26) than all but two Big Ten players attempted. Additionally, she was the only Big Ten player with two 20-point games during the week.
In the Illini’s first game of the week, a blowout win over Le Moyne on Nov. 18, Bostic registered the 36th double-double of her career, scoring 25 points (11-for-13 FG) and grabbing 12 rebounds in 23 minutes of action.
In Illinois’ handing of Oregon State on Nov. 22, Bostic became just the fourth player in program history to score 1,000 points and grab 1,000 rebounds as an Illini. Bostic is also now second on Illinois’ career rebounding list (1,045). She scored a career-high 31 points in the victory over the Beavers and grabbed eight rebounds in 32 minutes of work.
ILLINOIS WINS ALL FIVE GAMES DURING SEASON-OPENING FIVE-GAME HOMESTAND
Beginning the 2024-25 regular season with a stretch of five home contests, the Fighting Illini took care of business and went 5-0, which saw the Illini earn wins over three 2024 NCAA tournament teams.
Illinois started the campaign with a ranked victory over #19 Florida State (Nov. 7) before defeating Marquette by double digits three days later. Triumphs over Eastern Illinois (Nov. 14) and Le Moyne (Nov. 18) followed, and the Orange and Blue concluded their homestand with a dominant 19-point win over an Oregon State team that advanced to the Elite 8 at the 2024 NCAA tournament.
The victory over the Beavers (Nov. 22) helped the Illini improve to 5-0 on the season, marking the second 5-0 start under third-year head coach Shauna Green.
TOP HOME ATTENDANCES
Fighting Illini head coach Shauna Green has re-energized the women’s basketball fan base and delivered two of the top five home attendances in program history through just 70 games at Illinois. Green’s teams have drawn attendances of 13,486, 11,563, and 8,141 across the last three seasons – all three are in the top 13 of all-time largest home game attendances for the program.
The 2024 game vs. Le Moyne that drew 13,486 fans set a new single-game attendance record for home nonconference games at Illinois.
SINGLE-GAME ILLINOIS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL HOME ATTENDANCE TOP 5
Attendance Opponent Result Illini Head Coach Date
16,450 (sellout & old capacity) Iowa W, 86-73 Theresa Grentz 2/21/1999
16,050 (sellout & old capacity) Purdue L, 75-80 Theresa Grentz 2/23/1997
13,486 Le Moyne W, 94-25 Shauna Green 11/18/2024
13,212 Ohio State W, 70-61 Theresa Grentz 2/20/2000
11,563 Saint Peter’s W, 103-33 Shauna Green 11/15/2023
COACH GREEN SECURES 200TH CAREER WIN
Fighting Illini women’s basketball head coach Shauna Green won the 200th game of her career on Nov. 14, 2024, with an 84-37 victory over Eastern Illinois. Of the 200 wins, Green won 44 of those as the head coach at Illinois. Green tallied 127 victories at Dayton (2016-22) and the first 29 tallies came during her tenure at Loras College (2005-07).
In terms of wins with her current assistant coaches, 126 victories came with DeAntoine “Cat” Beasley on the bench, followed by 123 with Calamity McEntire, 22 alongside Britney Anderson, 22 with Emily Durr as an assistant (70 total with her on staff), and three of those wins were accompanied by Liza Fruendt.
ILLINOIS OPENS REGULAR SEASON WITH RANKED WIN
The Fighting Illini started the 2024-25 season with a statement win, taking down No. 19/19 Florida State, 83-74, at State Farm Center on Nov. 7. Four Illini scored in double figures in the ranked nine-point win, including 20-point outings for both Makira Cook and Adalia McKenzie, while the home side never trailed in the contest.
Kendall Bostic (18 points) and Gretchen Dolan (11 points) also finished with double-digit points, which helped the Illini pick up a ranked win for the third consecutive season.
BOSTIC REACHES 1,000 CAREER REBOUNDS
Kendall Bostic became the fourth player in program history to reach 1,000 career rebounds with the Illini, achieving the feat during Illinois’ 83-74 victory over No. 19 Florida State on Nov. 7. Bostic joined Jenna Smith (1,217), Karisma Penn (1,043), and Cindy Dallas (1,014) on the exclusive list.
Bostic has continued to climb the program’s career rebounding list and now ranks second all-time.
RANKED WINS CONTINUE TO ROLL IN (NOV. 7)
With the Illini’s 83-74 season-opening victory over No. 19 Florida State on Nov. 7, Illinois has now registered a win over a ranked opponent for the third consecutive season, the longest streak since the 2005-06, 2006-07, and 2007-08 campaigns.
The streak began on Jan. 1, 2023, when the Illini took down No. 12 Iowa, 90-86, for the program’s first ranked win since 2019. Illinois defeated No. 16 Indiana on Feb. 19, 2024, in dominant fashion, 86-66, before Illinois’ win over the Seminoles solidified that three-season streak.
PRESEASON WATCH LISTS
All three returning fifth-year Illini players landed on Naismith Award position watch lists ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. Makira Cook (Point Guard), Genesis Bryant (Shooting Guard), and Kendall Bostic (Power Forward) each earned spots on the respective 20-player lists. Cook also was recognized to the Jersey Mike’s Naismith Women’s Player of the Year Watch List and Preseason All-Big Ten list for the second-consecutive year.
Freshman Berry Wallace was named to Shane Laflin’s (Premier Basketball/ESPNW) 2024 NCAA Expected Impact Freshman List, featuring 10 college newcomers.
1,000 POINT SCORERS & REBOUNDING
Entering the 2024-25 campaign, Illinois has four players with 1,000+ career points scored. All four (Bostic, Bryant, Cook, McKenzie) have now scored 1,000 during their Illini tenures as well.
To date, 34 Fighting Illini players have scored 1,000 points during their career at Illinois, and only four players have scored 1,000 points and grabbed 1,000 rebounds at Illinois. Kendall Bostic became the fourth player in program history to join the 1,000/1,000 club as an Illini, earning a spot on the exclusive list that features Jenna Smith, Karisma Penn, and Cindy Dallas.
Milestone Marks
Name Career Points Career Rebounds Career Games/Starts Points at Illinois Rebounds at Illinois Games/Starts at Illinois
Makira Cook 1,723 376 118/95 1,152 213 69/69
Adalia McKenzie 1,272 552 109/97 1,272 552 109/97
Genesis Bryant 1,262 298 115/69 1,183 261 81/69
Kendall Bostic 1,262 1,238 131/109 1,169 1,174 109/109
THE SHAUNA GREEN EFFECT
The Illini’s 41 overall wins in Green’s first two seasons were the program’s most over a two-year span since the 1998-99 and 1999-2000 campaigns, when Illinois recorded 42 combined victories under Hall of Fame coach Theresa Grentz.
Illinois’ 19 Big Ten regular-season victories over Green’s first two seasons are the program’s most over a two-year span since the 1999-2000 and 2000-01 campaigns, when Illinois totaled 20 conference wins under Hall of Fame coach Theresa Grentz.
HOME ATTENDANCE NUMBERS
Across 15 home games during the 2022-23 season, Illinois Women’s Basketball saw 52,295 fans fill the State Farm Center en route to a 12-3 record. That total attendance ranked 5th in program history and made Shauna Green the only head coach to bring in 50,000 or more fans in her first season with the Illini.
In Illinois’ 2023-24 season – and home – opener, the attendance of 2,680 marked the largest ticketed season-opening crowd at State Farm Center since 2000 (3,954). In the Illini’s 17 home games last season, Illinois finished with a combined attendance of 63,242 for an average of 3,720 a game. 63,242 is now the fifth-best all-time attendance.
Illinois’ season-opener against Florida State drew a crowd of 3,741 to surpass last year’s season-opening mark by over 1,000 fans. With 13,486 fans in attendance for Field Trip Day and 4,914 fans in the stands of State Farm Center for Pack the House, Illinois’ season average is 4,829 per game through 11 home regular-season contests.
CONTRACT EXTENSION
Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman announced a two-year contract extension for women’s basketball head coach Shauna Green, which was approved by the University of Illinois Board of Trustees at its Nov. 14 meeting. Initially, the new agreement will keep Green on a six-year contract through at least the 2029-30 season. The agreement also provides Green the opportunity to earn up to four additional one-year extensions if certain performance thresholds are met.
Under Green, Illinois owns a 53-29 record, including a 21-20 mark in Big Ten play. In the first two years under Green, the Illinois women’s basketball team registered 41 wins, the first-ever postseason championship in program history (2024 WBIT), and back-to-back top-five season attendances in State Farm Center. Over the last three seasons, Illinois has delivered three upsets of AP Top-20 ranked teams: No. 12 Iowa (1/1/23), No. 14 Indiana (2/19/24), and No. 19 Florida State (11/7/24).
PRO ILLINI
Illinois women’s basketball is represented at the professional level across multiple continents. Former Illini center Camille Hobby joined the professional ranks after spending her fifth year of college at Illinois. Hobby plays for PAOK in Greece. Adrienne Williams Godbold, a guard at Illinois from 2009-13, plays in the Puerto Rican BSNF for Hatillo. Brandi Beasley, a guard at Illinois from 2016-20, plays for CJS Geispolsheim in France. Brittany Carter, who played at Illinois from 2014-15, now plays for GIE Cibao Immortals in the Dominican Republic and was the 2024 league MVP. Rebecca Harris, a guard at Illinois from 2006-08, plays for the Bay Area Phoenix in the Women’s Premier Basketball Association (WPBA), helping them to a championship. Harris has also played in the Athletes Unlimited League.
The Fighting Illini are heading east this Thursday as they prepare to clash with Indiana in a highly anticipated matchup. Both teams are coming off strong performances and are looking to continue their winning streaks.Illinois is currently sitting at the top of the Big Ten standings with an impressive record, while Indiana is not far behind and hungry for a statement win at home.
This game is sure to be a thrilling showdown between two talented teams that are determined to come out on top. The Fighting Illini will need to bring their A-game if they want to secure a victory on the road.
Be sure to tune in this Thursday to see the Fighting Illini take on Indiana in what promises to be an intense and exciting battle on the court. It’s a game you won’t want to miss! #FightingIllini #Indiana #BigTenBasketball
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NFL scores, live updates: Steelers and Bengals fighting for playoff position after Ravens lock up AFC North
The AFC North title was decided after the Baltimore Ravens’ 35-10 win over the Cleveland Browns earlier Saturday, but the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals still have plenty to play for.
For the Bengals, it’s trying to stay alive in the NFL playoff race. Even with a win, the team’s record will need losses by the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins on Sunday to be able to play next weekend, though they’ve lasted longer than anyone expected a few weeks ago. They are currently on a four-game win streak after starting 4-8.
For the Steelers, it’s a matter of their preferred wild-card opponent. A win would mean facing on the road the Houston Texans, who have been flailing lately and are in the playoffs through the grace of a down AFC South. A loss and a win by the Los Angeles Chargers means going to Baltimore, where they lost 34-17 two weeks ago.
And, of course, there’s always pride between AFC North rivals.
The Ravens captured the divisional crown with an undramatic victory against the Browns, who started Bailey Zappe at quarterback, swapped in Dorian Thompson-Robinson after a pick 6, then brought Zappe back in. With the Cleveland offense struggling, the Ravens were up multiple scores the entire second half.
The biggest highlight: an interception by 355-pound defensive tackle Michael Pierce.
Baltimore is now locked in as the No. 3 seed in the AFC side of the playoffs, behind the No. 1 Kansas City Chiefs and No. 2 Buffalo Bills.
Lamar Jackson finished his season with 4,172 passing yards and 41 passing touchdowns with some of the best pass efficiency numbers in NFL history, as well as 915 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. It was the most productive and efficient season of his career. Was it good enough for a third MVP award against a strong campaign by Bills quarterback Josh Allen?
Week 18 NFL Saturday schedule
Live49 updates
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The Ravens beat the Browns, 35-10, to lock up an AFC North Championship
It was a dominant performance for Baltimore, who outplayed Cleveland on both sides of the ball and locked up the AFC North title for the second straight season.
The Ravens will now go on to the NFL playoffs. The Browns, meanwhile, will have some soul-searching to do in the offseason.
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Big man Michael Pierce picks off Zappe to seal things for the Ravens
Baltimore DT Michael Pierce gets a thrilling big man interception, picking off Bailey Zappe in the red zone.
Unfortunately, Pierce, who weighs 355 pounds, dropped to his knee and didn’t go for the end zone. If only.
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Derrick Henry takes off for 43 yards and another birthday touchdown
Derrick Henry is making this a birthday to remember, breaking through the Browns for a 43-yard touchdown run. Henry now has 138 yards in 20 carries in his birthday matchup.
That might just be the final nail in the coffin for Cleveland, who look to be out of fight and are now down 35-10 with three minutes left.
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The Ravens force Cleveland to turn over on downs…again
Down 18 points with just under five minutes remaining, the Browns decided to go for it on fourth-and-four, but the pass is incomplete. It’s Cleveland’s second failed fourth down conversion this game — and the fifth of the game overall.
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Derrick Henry secures some history with his 15th rushing touchdown of the year
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Derrick Henry extends the lead with a birthday touchdown
Derrick Henry, who is celebrating his 31st birthday, rushes for two yards into the end zone and gives the Ravens a 28-10 lead. The touchdown marks his 15th rushing TD this season; Henry now has 17 carries for 87 yards in today’s game.
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Rashod Bateman keeps up the fancy footwork
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Browns finally break into the end zone after a grinding drive
The Browns’ drive is salvaged by a pass interference call, but a 30-yard Bailey Zappe pass to Jamari Thrash, initially ruled a touchdown, was eventually overturned and ruled an incomplete pass.
Still, Bailey Zappe kept pushing. After a few short gains, Zappe found TE Jordan Akins for the team’s first touchdown since December 15.
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Ravens defense keeps dominating as Odafe Oweh gets his 10th sack of the year
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The NFL scores and live updates are in full swing as the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals battle it out for playoff positioning following the Baltimore Ravens clinching the AFC North title.Currently, the Steelers are holding onto a slim lead over the Bengals in the AFC North standings, but anything can change as both teams fight for their spot in the postseason.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting matchup and other key games as the playoff picture continues to take shape in the NFL. #NFL #Steelers #Bengals #PlayoffRace
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Cam Newton doubles down on Notre Dame take, claims Fighting Irish had ‘cakewalk’ to semifinals
Former NFL MVP and current ESPN First Take analyst Cam Newton said ahead of the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff between Notre Dame and Georgia that the fighting Irish did not belong in the CFP because of their lack of quality wins.
Notre Dame went out and beat Georgia 23-10 in the Sugar Bowl Thursday afternoon, but despite that, Cam Newton is sticking by his take.
“Notre Dame played six top 25 teams in their year this year. You want to know who those top 25 teams were? Texas A&M, Louisville, Navy, Army, Indiana and a depleted UGA team,” Cam Newton said Friday on ESPN First Take.
“They have the 58th strength of schedule. … Notre Dame has had a cakewalk to their situation, playing the teams that they’ve played, versus the teams Texas played, versus the teams Ohio State even played. So that’s what I mean when I say certain things like that. You haven’t earned the right.”
Georgia was without starting quarterback Carson Beck against Notre Dame, which is part of what led to Newton’s comments. Cam Newton also said that this is not a typical Georgia team that Notre Dame beat.
“This is the weakest University of Georgia team that we’ve seen in the last five years. And you know that,” Newton said. “And they played with their backup quarterback. On top of, they had two turnovers, on top of that they had to muster special teams touchdowns to win.
“OK, cool. Did they control the line of scrimmage? Yes. But was that the best UGA team? No.”
Cam Newton understands that some will be critical of his take, but he is standing by it. He pointed out that the Fighting Irish finished with 244 total yards against Georgia and benefited from two UGA turnovers. Notre Dame also had a kickoff return for a touchdown.
“I’m not the person that’s going to go with the trend, as you guys obviously know. I’m OK with speaking my mind,” Newton said. “So now, I’m going to also double down on this statement by saying this, I’m used to seeing teams earn their way to a national title. I’m used to seeing teams beat the best. I don’t think 100 percent that we’re seeing the best teams compete.”
Cam Newton doubles down on Notre Dame take, claims Fighting Irish had ‘cakewalk’ to semifinalsFormer NFL quarterback Cam Newton is not holding back when it comes to his thoughts on Notre Dame’s path to the College Football Playoff semifinals. In a recent interview, Newton claimed that the Fighting Irish had a “cakewalk” to the semifinals and questioned whether they truly deserved their spot in the prestigious playoff.
Newton’s comments come after Notre Dame secured a spot in the semifinals with an undefeated regular season record. However, many critics have pointed out that the Fighting Irish did not have to face the same level of competition as some of the other teams vying for a spot in the playoff.
“I just don’t think Notre Dame has been tested enough this season to deserve a spot in the semifinals,” Newton said. “They had a cakewalk to get to where they are, and I’m not convinced that they are one of the top four teams in the country.”
Newton’s comments are sure to spark debate among college football fans, as Notre Dame prepares to face off against a tough opponent in the semifinals. Only time will tell if the Fighting Irish can prove their critics wrong and make a strong showing in the playoff.
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