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Major League Baseball fires umpire Pat Hoberg for gambling association
Major League Baseball has fired umpire Pat Hoberg for his association with a known gambler who bet on baseball, Commissioner Rob Manfred announced Monday.
Hoberg, 38, considered one of baseball’s best umpires, is the first known umpire to be terminated for violating baseball’s gambling policy.
While there is no evidence that Hoberg directly bet on baseball, an account that he shared with a professional poker player revealed that person bet on 141 baseball games, including eight bets that Hoberg was either umpiring or in New York’s video replay booth.
“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules governing sports betting conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,’’ Manfred said in a statement. “An extensive investigation revealed no evidence that Mr. Hoberg placed bets on baseball directly or that he or anyone else manipulated games in any way.
“However, his extremely poor judgment in sharing betting accounts with a professional poker player he had reason to believe bet on baseball and who did, in fact, bet on baseball from the shared accounts, combined with his deletion of messages, creates at minimum the appearance of impropriety that warrants imposing the most severe discipline.
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“Therefore, there is just cause to uphold Mr. Hoberg’s termination for failing to conform to high standards of personal conduct and to maintain the integrity of the game of baseball.”
MLB announced last summer that Hoberg was disciplined for potential illegal activity, but never revealed that he was terminated on May 24, 2024 because of an appeal he filed with the umpires’ union. MLB officially denied his appeal on Monday, ending his association with Major League Baseball.
Hoberg has the right to apply for reinstatement in 2026, just like Pete Rose had the opportunity to apply for reinstatement ever year, but the all-time hits leaderremained permanently banned from baseball until his death.
While Hoberg admitted to gambling on different sports, he vehemently denied gambling on baseball. Yet, after MLB opened its investigation in February 2024, officials determined that he intentionally deleted messages central to its investigation. Yet, MLB did not find any data from sportsbooks that revealed Hoberg bet on baseball or manipulated the outcome of any games.
MLB opened its investigation last February when it received information from a licensed sports betting operator that Hoberg opened a sports betting account in his own name in January 2024, and that the personal electronic device associated with this account was connected with the legal sports betting account of a close friend of his who frequently traveled with him during the season.
Michael Hill, senior vice president of On-Field Operations Michael Hill, determined after viewing the evidence last year that “based on the totality of the circumstances, including impeding the investigation into his conduct, Hoberg’s conduct and extremely poor judgment created a situation in which Hoberg could not be trusted to “maintain the integrity of the international game of baseball” on the field as required by Article 9.A of the CBA.’’
Manfred reviewed all of the information during the grievance procedure, met personally with Hoberg, and upheld the termination.
Hoberg, who had a perfect score as the home-plate umpire during Game 2 of the 2022 World Series, began placing bets through his friend beginning in 2015 or 2016, and then opened his online account in 2019 when sports betting became legal in his home state of Iowa. Hoberg and his friend shared passwords and accounts, using the messaging app “Telegram.’’ Hoberg and his friend settled outstanding debts in cash when they saw one another in person.
The investigation showed that Hoberg’s devices were used to place 417 direct bets with one sports book between Dec. 30, 2020 to Jan. 15, 2024, spending $487,475.83. These bets lost a total of $53,189.65 .
Major League Baseball fires umpire Pat Hoberg for gambling associationIn a shocking turn of events, Major League Baseball has announced the firing of umpire Pat Hoberg due to his association with gambling. The league has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to any form of gambling that could compromise the integrity of the game.
Hoberg, who has been a highly respected umpire in the league for several years, was reportedly found to have been involved in betting on baseball games, a serious violation of MLB’s rules and regulations. The league conducted a thorough investigation and determined that Hoberg’s actions were in direct violation of their policies.
This news comes as a major blow to the baseball community, as umpires are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and impartiality. The league has made it clear that they will not tolerate any behavior that could potentially tarnish the reputation of the sport.
While this is a sad day for baseball, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game at all costs. Major League Baseball will continue to take decisive action against anyone who threatens the integrity of the sport, no matter how high-ranking they may be.
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Umpire Pat Hoberg fired by MLB for sharing sports gambling accounts with friend who bet on baseball
NEW YORK (AP) — Umpire Pat Hoberg was fired by Major League Baseball on Monday for sharing his legal sports gambling accounts with a friend who bet on baseball games and for intentionally deleting electronic messages pertinent to the league’s investigation.
MLB opened the investigation last February when it was brought to its attention by the sports book, and Hoberg did not umpire last season. While MLB said the investigation did not uncover evidence Hoberg personally bet on baseball or manipulated games, MLB senior vice president of on-field operations Michael Hill recommended on May 24 that Hoberg be fired.
Commissioner Rob Manfred said Monday he upheld Hill’s decision. Among the highest-rated umpires at judging the strike zone, Hoberg can apply for reinstatement no earlier than 2026 spring training.
MLB said the friend made 141 baseball bets between April 2, 2021 and Nov. 1, 2023 totaling almost $214,000 with an overall win of nearly $35,000.
“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules governing sports betting conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,” Manfred said in a statement. “An extensive investigation revealed no evidence that Mr. Hoberg placed bets on baseball directly or that he or anyone else manipulated games in any way.
“However, his extremely poor judgment in sharing betting accounts with a professional poker player he had reason to believe bet on baseball and who did, in fact, bet on baseball from the shared accounts, combined with his deletion of messages, creates at minimum the appearance of impropriety that warrants imposing the most severe discipline. Therefore, there is just cause to uphold Mr. Hoberg’s termination for failing to conform to high standards of personal conduct and to maintain the integrity of the game of baseball.”
Now 38, Hoberg made his big league debut in 2014. During Game 2 of the 2022 World Series, he had an unprecedented “umpire’s perfect game” by accurately calling balls and strikes on all 129 taken pitches, according to computer tracking.
“I take full responsibility for the errors in judgment that are outlined in today’s statement,” Hoberg said in a statement. “Those errors will always be a source of shame and embarrassment to me. Major League Baseball umpires are held to a high standard of personal conduct, and my own conduct fell short of that standard.
“That said, to be clear, I have never and would never bet on baseball in any way, shape, or form. I have never provided, and would never provide, information to anyone for the purpose of betting on baseball. Upholding the integrity of the game has always been of the utmost importance to me. I apologize to Major League Baseball and the entire baseball community for my mistakes. I vow to learn from them and to be a better version of myself moving forward.”
Under the umpires’ collective bargaining agreement, Hoberg had the right to appeal Hill’s decision, triggering the hiring by MLB of a neutral fact finder who made a report to Manfred.
MLB said the sports book notified it that Hoberg opened an account in his name on Jan. 30 last year and an electronic device associated with the account had accessed an account in the name of another person., who had bet on baseball.
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AP MLB: https://apnews.com/hub/mlb
Major League Baseball has announced the firing of umpire Pat Hoberg after it was revealed that he shared sports gambling accounts with a friend who placed bets on baseball games. This shocking revelation has raised concerns about the integrity of the game and the role of umpires in ensuring fair play.Hoberg, who has been a Major League umpire for over a decade, was caught sharing his accounts with a friend who was known to be a frequent bettor on baseball games. This unethical behavior has led to his immediate dismissal from the league, with MLB commissioner Rob Manfred stating that such actions will not be tolerated.
The incident has sparked outrage among fans and players alike, with many questioning the trustworthiness of umpires and their ability to make unbiased calls on the field. The integrity of the game is paramount, and any actions that compromise this must be dealt with swiftly and decisively.
As the dust settles on this scandal, MLB will undoubtedly be looking to tighten its regulations and ensure that such behavior does not occur again in the future. The firing of Pat Hoberg serves as a stark reminder that the game of baseball must be upheld with the highest standards of fairness and integrity.
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MLB fires umpire Pat Hoberg for sharing betting accounts with pro poker player who bet on baseball
Major League Baseball has fired umpire Pat Hoberg after he shared sports betting accounts with a professional poker player who bet on baseball.
In a news release, the league said it found no evidence Hoberg manipulated baseball games, and said that “the data provided by the sportsbooks does not show any baseball bets from his own electronic devices.” However, the league found Hoberg deleted messages that were central to its investigation.
The league initially fired Hoberg on May 31 last year. Hoberg then appealed the process, which called for a “neutral factfinder” to be brought in.
GO DEEPER
MLB umpire Pat Hoberg disciplined for violating gambling rules
However, per the umpires’ collective bargaining agreement, the ultimate ruling on the appeal rested with commissioner Rob Manfred.
“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules governing sports betting conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,” Manfred said in a statement. “An extensive investigation revealed no evidence that Mr. Hoberg placed bets on baseball directly or that he or anyone else manipulated games in any way. However, his extremely poor judgment in sharing betting accounts with a professional poker player he had reason to believe bet on baseball and who did, in fact, bet on baseball from the shared accounts, combined with his deletion of messages, creates at minimum the appearance of impropriety that warrants imposing the most severe discipline. Therefore, there is just cause to uphold Mr. Hoberg’s termination for failing to conform to high standards of personal conduct and to maintain the integrity of the game of baseball.”
Hoberg can apply for reinstatement in spring training 2026 at the earliest.
“I take full responsibility for the errors in judgment that are outlined in today’s statement,” Hoberg said in a statement. “Those errors will always be a source of shame and embarrassment to me. Major League Baseball umpires are held to a high standard of personal conduct, and my own conduct fell short of that standard. That said, to be clear, I have never and would never bet on baseball in any way, shape, or form. I have never provided, and would never provide, information to anyone for the purpose of betting on baseball. Upholding the integrity of the game has always been of the utmost importance to me.
“I apologize to Major League Baseball and the entire baseball community for my mistakes,” Hoberg’s statement read. “I vow to learn from them and to be a better version of myself moving forward.”
The umpires’ union released their own statement on the matter. “We thank Commissioner Manfred for his careful consideration of Pat Hoberg’s appeal,” the umpires’ statement read. “As Major League Baseball umpires, we have devoted our professional lives to upholding the rules and integrity of the game. If our union believed that an umpire bet on baseball, we would never defend him. But as today’s statement from the League makes clear, the neutral factfinder did not find that Pat placed bets on baseball. Yet we respect Pat’s unequivocal acceptance of responsibility for the mistakes that led to his termination.”
Hoberg became a full-time major-league umpire in 2017, and started working games professionally in 2009, according to MLB’s umpires media guide. The tracking site umpscorecards.com gave Hoberg a perfect score for a game he worked behind the plate during the 2022 World Series.
MLB disciplined Hoberg under a provision in the umpires’ CBA that broadly requires umpires to “maintain the integrity of the international game of baseball” on the field, as opposed to the sport’s famed Rule 21, which specifically addresses gambling.
The league opened an investigation into Hoberg in February 2024, when a sportsbook notified the commissioner’s office Hoberg had opened an account on Jan. 30.
Sports gambling, which MLB and other professional sports leagues have embraced via sponsorship arrangements, has also produced significant controversy inside sports. Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter to Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, is scheduled to be sentenced on Thursday for stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani to pay gambling debts.
(Photo: Brace Hemmelgarn / Getty Images)
Breaking News: MLB fires umpire Pat Hoberg for sharing betting accounts with pro poker player who bet on baseballIn a shocking turn of events, Major League Baseball has announced the firing of umpire Pat Hoberg for his involvement in sharing betting accounts with a professional poker player who placed bets on baseball games.
The league conducted a thorough investigation and found that Hoberg had violated MLB’s strict policy against gambling on baseball, as well as the code of conduct for umpires. It was discovered that Hoberg had been providing inside information to the poker player, who then used that information to place bets on games.
This scandal has rocked the baseball world, as the integrity of the game is of utmost importance to the league and its fans. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred issued a statement condemning Hoberg’s actions and emphasizing that any form of gambling on baseball by umpires or players will not be tolerated.
Hoberg, who had been a respected umpire in the league for many years, has been banned from ever working in MLB again. The league is also considering legal action against the poker player involved in the scandal.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of jeopardizing the integrity of the game, and MLB is committed to upholding the highest standards of fairness and transparency. Fans can rest assured that measures are in place to prevent any further breaches of the rules and to protect the integrity of America’s pastime.
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#MLB #fires #umpire #Pat #Hoberg #sharing #betting #accounts #pro #poker #player #bet #baseballMLB upholds firing of ump Pat Hoberg for gambling violations
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Jesse Rogers
Following a lengthy appeals process, Major League Baseball on Monday upheld its firing of umpire Pat Hoberg for “sharing” sports betting accounts with a professional poker player and friend who bet on baseball, though there is no direct evidence Hoberg bet on baseball games himself or manipulated them while working.
Hoburg, in a statement via the Major League Baseball Umpires Association (MLBUA), said he made mistakes but denies betting on baseball games.
“I take full responsibility for the errors in judgment that are outlined in today’s statement [by MLB]” Hoberg said. “Those errors will always be a source of shame and embarrassment to me.
“Major League Baseball umpires are held to a high standard of personal conduct, and my own conduct fell short of that standard. That said, to be clear, I have never and would never bet on baseball in any way, shape, or form. I have never provided, and would never provide, information to anyone for the purpose of betting on baseball. Upholding the integrity of the game has always been of the utmost importance to me.”
Hoburg apologized to Major League Baseball and said he vowed “to learn from [mistakes] and to be a better version of myself moving forward.”
MLB began its investigation into Hoberg in February 2024, after the long-time umpire opened an account with a licensed sports betting operator in his own name. The operator detected that Hoberg’s personal electronic device associated with the new account was also associated with the legal sports betting account of an individual who had bet on baseball.
Additionally, Hoberg was also found to have intentionally deleted messages central to MLB’s investigation into his conduct.
Hoberg was subsequently removed from spring training and made inactive for the 2024 season pending completion of the investigation.
On May 24, 2024, MLB senior vice president of on-field operations Michael Hill determined Hoberg’s “conduct and extremely poor judgment” created a situation in which he “could not be trusted” to maintain the integrity of the game on the field. He was fired on May 31, but he appealed the process, leading to Monday’s upholding of his termination.
“The strict enforcement of Major League Baseball’s rules governing sports betting conduct is a critical component of upholding our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans,” commissioner Rob Manfred said in the league’s release Monday.
“An extensive investigation revealed no evidence that Mr. Hoberg placed bets on baseball directly or that he or anyone else manipulated games in any way. However, his extremely poor judgment in sharing betting accounts with a professional poker player he had reason to believe bet on baseball and who did, in fact, bet on baseball from the shared accounts, combined with his deletion of messages, creates at minimum the appearance of impropriety that warrants imposing the most severe discipline.
“Therefore, there is just cause to uphold Mr. Hoberg’s termination for failing to conform to high standards of personal conduct and to maintain the integrity of the game of baseball.”
Consistent with MLB rules for players, Hoberg can apply for reinstatement, but no earlier than the start of spring training in 2026.
Hoberg, 38, is best known for his perfect performance in Game 2 of the 2022 World Series, when he was the plate umpire and called all 129 balls and strikes correctly. He is widely regarded as the best ball-strike umpire in MLB.
Hoberg first umpired major league games in 2014 and became a full-time umpire in 2017. He umpired postseason games every year from 2018 to 2022 and was assigned to pool games in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
“We thank Commissioner Manfred for his careful consideration of Pat Hoberg’s appeal,” the MLBUA said in its own statement. “As Major League Baseball umpires, we have devoted our professional lives to upholding the rules and integrity of the game. If our union believed that an umpire bet on baseball, we would never defend him. But as today’s statement from the league makes clear, the neutral factfinder did not find that Pat placed bets on baseball. Yet we respect Pat’s unequivocal acceptance of responsibility for the mistakes that led to his termination.”
The MLB has announced that they are upholding the firing of umpire Pat Hoberg for gambling violations. Hoberg was dismissed from his position after an investigation revealed that he had been placing bets on baseball games, violating the league’s strict anti-gambling policies.The decision to uphold Hoberg’s firing sends a clear message that the MLB has zero tolerance for any form of gambling by its officials. Umpires are expected to uphold the integrity of the game and any actions that compromise that integrity will not be tolerated.
Hoberg’s dismissal serves as a warning to other umpires and officials in the league that the consequences of engaging in illegal gambling activities will be severe. The MLB is committed to maintaining the fairness and integrity of the game, and will not hesitate to take action against those who threaten that integrity.
It is a disappointing and unfortunate situation, but the MLB is committed to upholding the highest standards of honesty and integrity in the sport. Let this be a lesson to all that the consequences of breaking the rules will be swift and severe.
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MLB, umpire, Pat Hoberg, firing, gambling violations, baseball, sports news, MLB news, sports scandal, professional umpire, disciplinary action
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WWE star issues challenge to Stephanie McMahon after Pat McAfee interview
Stephanie McMahon recently appeared on The Pat McAfee Show to discuss her life inside and outside the wrestling business. The former WWE Chairwoman told a story about her dislike of cats, prompting Natalya to issue a unique challenge.
During a light-hearted chat about animals, McMahon told McAfee she has not liked cats since childhood. Triple H’s wife claimed they “mess with” her and recalled how a cat bit her middle finger when she was in daycare.
Natalya’s love of cats has been referenced on WWE programming for many years. In an interview with Denise Salcedo before the Royal Rumble, the former SmackDown Women’s Champion vowed to change McMahon’s mind about the animal:
“I do have a bone to pick with Stephanie McMahon. Stephanie said on Pat McAfee’s show that she wasn’t a cat person, and I was heartbroken! My cat’s were heartbroken. We were hurting so much hearing that Stephanie doesn’t like cats [laughs]. I was so devastated. I just wanted to send her a text and say that we’re gonna change your mind, Steph.” [1:02 – 1:24]
Natalya even created an Instagram dedicated to her cats. The account currently has 142k followers, more than many WWE Superstars.
Natalya wants Stephanie McMahon to take inspiration from Bayley
In recent years, 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble winner Bayley has become a self-confessed “crazy cat lady” thanks to Natalya.
Natalya is convinced she can turn Stephanie McMahon into a cat person if she is given the opportunity:
“I converted Bayley from being a dog person into a mega cat lover. Yes, I made Bayley into a crazy cat lady, and I’m gonna do the same with Stephanie McMahon. I promise you. That’s a challenge, Steph.” [1:27 – 1:37]
The 2025 Royal Rumble will take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, on February 1. Liv Morgan and Natalya are the only participants who have appeared in every Women’s Royal Rumble since the match debuted in 2018.
Do you think Natalya will turn Stephanie into a cat person? Hit the discuss button and let us know.
Please credit Denise Salcedo and give an H/T to Sportskeeda Wrestling for the transcription if you use quotes from this article.
Edited by Danny Hart
“WWE Star Challenges Stephanie McMahon After Explosive Pat McAfee Interview”In a recent interview with former NFL player turned WWE commentator, Pat McAfee, a current WWE superstar issued a bold challenge to none other than Stephanie McMahon, the Chief Brand Officer of WWE.
The wrestler, whose identity has not been revealed, expressed frustration over various issues within the company and called out McMahon for her alleged mistreatment of talent. The superstar also took aim at the lack of opportunities given to up-and-coming wrestlers and the lack of support for women in the industry.
McMahon has yet to respond to the challenge, but fans are eagerly waiting to see if she will accept and address the concerns raised by the outspoken WWE star. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
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WWE, Stephanie McMahon, Pat McAfee, challenge, interview, wrestling, WWE star, rivalry, wrestling news, wrestling feud, WWE superstar, wrestling interview
#WWE #star #issues #challenge #Stephanie #McMahon #Pat #McAfee #interviewLouisville HC Pat Kelsey Previews Wake Forest
LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The Louisville men’s basketball program is one of the hottest teams in college basketball right now.
After starting the season at 6-5, the Cardinals and first-year head coach Pat Kelsey have fired off nine wins in a row. Not only is this UofL’s longest winning streak in five years, they’re now ranked for the first time in four years, and still hold second place in the ACC standings.
“We make a point every single day to make the next thing we do the most important thing, and we stack that
on top of each other again and again and again and again,” head coach Pat Kelsey said. “I’m a big believer that that’s how you create and have consistent results, not guaranteed results, but consistent results.”After having a week off from their last game at SMU, Louisville will be back in action and hosting Wake Forest. The Demon Deacons are also one of the better teams in the ACC, previously winning six-in-a-row before narrowly falling to Duke this past Saturday.
“This is one of the best teams in our league, and it’s obvious,” Kelsey said of Wake Forest. “It jumps out on tape just how talented they are. They have an older veteran team, they have a First-Team All-Conference player, and probably have another one as well.”
Prior to their matchup with the Demon Deacons, Kelsey, took time to meet with the media on the weekly ACC Coaches Conference Call. He discussed the previous game at SMU, previewed the upcoming showdown vs. Wake Forest, and more.
Below is the video from his press conference:
(Photo of Pat Kelsey: Mark Konezny – Imagn Images)
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Louisville head coach Pat Kelsey is gearing up for a matchup against Wake Forest, and he’s ready to face the challenge head-on. In a recent press conference, Kelsey shared his thoughts on the upcoming game and what the team needs to do to come out on top.“We know that Wake Forest is a tough opponent, but we’re prepared and focused on executing our game plan,” Kelsey said. “We have been working hard in practice to fine-tune our strategies and make sure we are ready for whatever they throw at us.”
Kelsey emphasized the importance of strong defense and disciplined offense in order to secure a victory against Wake Forest. He also praised the team’s resilience and determination, stating that they are ready to compete at a high level.
“We have a talented group of players who are hungry for success,” Kelsey added. “I have full confidence in their abilities and know that they will give it their all on the court.”
As the game approaches, Louisville fans can expect an intense and competitive matchup between the Cardinals and Wake Forest. With Kelsey at the helm, the team is poised to put on a show and come out victorious.
Stay tuned for more updates on Louisville basketball and their journey to success under Coach Kelsey’s leadership.
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Dawn Staley gives legendary Pat Summitt her flowers
South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley was named the highest-paid coach in NCAA women’s basketball history. On the other hand, she took a moment to reflect on the impact of Tennessee coaching legend Pat Summitt. As South Carolina prepared to honor Summitt during their We Back Pat game against Oklahoma, Staley shared her admiration for her.
Pat Summitt’s illustrious career spanned 38 seasons as head coach of the Tennessee Lady Vols. She led her teams to eight national championships and remains one of only three coaches in NCAA women’s basketball to secure back-to-back titles, achieving this feat in 2007 and 2008. Staley, speaking in a video posted by the SEC Network’s Instagram page, emphasized Summitt’s influence:
“Pat Summitt has been the standard in our game, and she’s done things that you can only imagine.”
In her tribute, Staley acknowledged Summitt’s ability to elevate women’s basketball to new heights. She praised her for setting a precedent for excellence and said:
“We need to honor all the foremothers of our sport because of the standard. It was all attributed to Coach Summitt and her ability to bring out the best in all of her players, like all of her players.”
Pat Summitt’s legendary career was tragically cut short by her battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Diagnosed at the age of 59 in 2011, Summitt retired from coaching the following year, leaving behind an incredible record of 1,098-208. She passed away on June 28, 2016, at the age of 63.
To keep her memory alive, the SEC dedicates a week each year to honor Summitt’s contributions to women’s basketball and raise awareness for Alzheimer’s. The initiative, aptly named “We Back Pat,” recognizes the foundation Summitt laid for coaches like Staley and celebrates her pivotal role in advancing the sport. Reflecting on the significance of this tribute, Staley said:
“It’s only right. Pat Summitt has been the standard in our game.”
During this year’s We Back Pat week, Staley and the No. 2-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks (17-1, 5-0 SEC) faced No. 13 Oklahoma at Colonial Life Arena.
Dawn Staley’s historic rise in coaching
Dawn Staley signed a lucrative contract extension with South Carolina, making her the highest-paid coach in NCAA women’s basketball. The agreement, worth $25.25 million, ensures her tenure through the 2029-30 season and includes a $4 million annual salary, a $500,000 signing bonus, and a $250,000 annual escalator.
Staley’s success is a testament to her transformative leadership since taking over the South Carolina program in 2008. A Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer and a four-time Olympic gold medalist, Staley has cemented her place as one of the greatest figures in women’s basketball.
Under her guidance, the Gamecocks have made six Final Four appearances, including in each of the last four seasons, and have won three national championships. Staley has also led her team to eight SEC regular-season and tournament titles, earning Naismith Coach of the Year honors four times. This season, the Gamecocks have a 17-1 overall record and remain undefeated in conference play, further solidifying their dominance.
When Staley transitioned to coaching, she faced Summitt as an opponent eight times between 2008 and 2012. During this period, Tennessee won seven of those matchups, with South Carolina securing their only win on February 2, 2012.
Dawn Staley, Geno Auriemma, or Kim Mulkey – who is NCAAW’s highest-paid coach? Find out here
Edited by Ripunjay Gaba
In a heartwarming display of respect and admiration, legendary basketball coach Dawn Staley recently paid tribute to the late great Pat Summitt by giving her “flowers” during a press conference. Staley, the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball team, spoke passionately about the impact that Summitt had on the game of basketball and on her own coaching career.Summitt, who passed away in 2016, was a trailblazer in women’s basketball and a true icon of the sport. Staley, who played against Summitt’s Tennessee Lady Vols during her college career at the University of Virginia, has always held Summitt in high regard and credits her with inspiring her to become a coach.
During the press conference, Staley spoke about the lessons she learned from Summitt, both on and off the court. She praised Summitt’s work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to excellence, and expressed her gratitude for the impact that Summitt had on the game of basketball.
Staley’s gesture of giving Summitt “flowers” serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of honoring and celebrating those who have paved the way for others in their field. It is a touching tribute to a legendary coach who will always be remembered for her contributions to the game of basketball.
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Pat Summitt was the ‘standard’ for South Carolina coach
COLUMBIA — Shortly after coach Dawn Staley became the highest-paid coach in NCAA women’s basketball history, South Carolina will honor one of the game’s most accomplished coaches, Tennessee legend coach Pat Summitt.
Summitt coached the Lady Vols for 38 seasons. She won eight national championships and is one of just three coaches to win back-to-back titles – 2007 and 2008.
She was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s in 2011 when she was 59 years old. She retired in 2012 with an overall coaching record of 1,098-208 and died June 28, 2016, at the age of 63.
Each year, the SEC dedicates a week to honor the foundation that Summitt laid for coaches like Staley, and how she helped transform women’s basketball in the late 1990s and early 2000s, in addition to raising awareness for Alzheimer’s.
The initiative is called We Back Pat and No. 2 South Carolina (17-1, 5-0 SEC) will honor Summitt on Sunday (3 p.m., ESPN) when No. 13 Oklahoma (15-3, 3-2) comes to Colonial Life Arena.
“It’s only right,” Staley said of honoring her legacy. “Pat Summitt has been the standard in our game. She’s done things that you can only imagine, like only imagine and to me, in a short period of time.”
How Dawn Staley fared vs Pat Summitt
As a player at Virginia, Staley met Summitt’s Lady Vols three consecutive years in the NCAA Tournament from 1989-91. The Cavaliers won in 1990 but in both 1989 and 1991, Tennessee beat Virginia and went on to win the national championship.
In the time after Staley arrived in Columbia in 2008 and before Summitt retired after the 2011-12 season, the two coaches battled eight times. The Gamecocks lost seven times to the Lady Vols, with the only win on Feb. 2, 2012, which was the final game Summitt ever coached against Staley.
“When you see Tennessee, it was a standard of doing business and it was all attributed to coach Summitt and her ability to bring out the best in all of her players,” Staley said. “I had the great fortune of playing with, against her players and there’s something about them. You know that if you have to go into a foxhole, her players are the type of players you want to be in the foxhole with.”
What is We Back Pat Week?
This is the 13th annual We Back Pat week. The SEC dedicates a week of games to honor Summitt’s legacy and raise awareness for the Pat Summitt Foundation. The foundation was started by Summitt and her son Tyler shortly after her diagnosis in August 2011.
Tennessee held its We Back Pat game on Thursday night when the Lady Vols hosted Mississippi State.
All 16 SEC women’s basketball teams will wear We Back Pat warmup shirts for their games during the weeklong initiative.
DETAILS:We Back Pat Week: SEC honors Lady Vols’ Pat Summitt, schedule, how to watch, what to know
Lulu Kesin covers South Carolina athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email her at lkesin@gannett.com and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @Lulukesin
Pat Summitt, the legendary former coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, was truly the ‘standard’ for South Carolina coach Dawn Staley. Summitt’s impact on women’s basketball is undeniable, and her influence can be seen in the coaching style and success of Staley.Summitt, who passed away in 2016, was a trailblazer in the world of women’s basketball. She won eight national championships and over 1,000 games during her coaching career, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest coaches of all time. Her dedication to the game, her players, and her relentless pursuit of excellence set the bar high for all coaches in the sport.
Dawn Staley, who took over as head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2008, has followed in Summitt’s footsteps in many ways. Staley, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and Hall of Famer player, has led the Gamecocks to new heights, including a national championship in 2017. Her passion for the game, her commitment to her players, and her drive to be the best mirror Summitt’s coaching philosophy.
Staley has often spoken about the impact that Summitt had on her career and coaching style. She has credited Summitt with teaching her the importance of hard work, discipline, and leadership, qualities that have helped Staley become one of the top coaches in the country.
In many ways, Pat Summitt was the ‘standard’ for South Carolina coach Dawn Staley. Her legacy lives on in Staley’s coaching, and her influence can be seen in the success of the Gamecocks. Summitt’s impact on the game of women’s basketball will never be forgotten, and her spirit lives on in coaches like Dawn Staley who continue to push the boundaries and inspire the next generation of players and coaches.
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#Pat #Summitt #standard #South #Carolina #coachNotre Dame starting OL Pat Coogan expected to enter transfer portal
Notre Dame starting offensive lineman Pat Coogan is expected to enter the transfer portal, sources tell On3. He’s become famous for his pregame speeches, including one before the Sugar Bowl where he screamed, “It’s God, it’s country, it’s motherf—ing Notre Dame.”
A 13-game starter for the Fighting Irish this season, the center emerged as a leader of an offensive line that helped Jeremiyah Love rush for 1,125 yards in 2024. Coogan has started 26 career games, playing at center and left guard.
“Coogs is an unbelievable leader,” Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman recently said. “He is passionate about this place. He is passionate about his position. Never complained about his role, just worked, and now he’s starting center and battling.”
During Notre Dame’s Week 3 win at Purdue, junior center Ashton Craig was engaged with a block when a stray body fell into his knee. Craig tore his ACL, ending his season and opening the door for Coogan to step in at center.
Pat Coogan allowed eight quarterback pressures in 2024 and just one sack. The senior center out of Palos Heights, Ill. has one year of eligibility remaining. He was a three-star coming out of high school.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated
Notre Dame starting offensive lineman Pat Coogan is expected to enter the transfer portal, according to sources close to the team. Coogan, a redshirt freshman, has seen significant playing time this season and was considered a key piece of the Fighting Irish’s offensive line.While the reasons for Coogan’s decision to transfer are unclear at this time, it is a significant loss for Notre Dame as they look to build on their success this season. Coogan’s departure will leave a hole in the offensive line that will need to be filled by a younger, less experienced player.
It remains to be seen where Coogan will transfer to, but several schools are expected to show interest in the talented offensive lineman. Notre Dame will need to regroup and adjust their offensive line strategy as they move forward without Coogan.
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Huntington Beach Mayor Pat Burns wants city to be declared ‘non-sanctuary city’
HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. (KABC) — Huntington Beach has been declared a “non-sanctuary city” after a unanimous vote by the City Council Tuesday evening.
In a 7-0 vote, the City Council approved the resolution brought by Mayor Pat Burns.
Burns says the move will help law enforcement follow federal immigration protocols under the new Trump administration.
California is currently a sanctuary state.
President Donald Trump’s executive order tackling the crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border has the full support of Burns.
Burns wants the city to back any efforts made by the Trump administration to enforce federal immigration law.
“We need every law enforcement effort, whenever called upon, whether it be fighting terrorists, whether it be fighting purse snatchers, or whatever it is, we have to have every law enforcement tool to best serve our citizens,” Burns said.
His resolution declare the city of Huntington Beach a “non-sanctuary city for illegal immigration for the prevention of crime.”
“It’s not meaning that our police are going to go out and look for, patrol and pull over people for being illegal,” Burns said. “That’s not our capacity. That’s a federal job.”
The mayor believes the state’s sanctuary law limits the cooperation between state and local law enforcement with federal immigration authorities.
“It’s taking out a link of a chain that we can’t afford,” Burns said. “We’re weakening the law enforcement efforts to the city to make it the safest place.”
Some residents like Jacquelyn Leyva say the resolution is divisive.
“I fully do not support Huntington Beach being a ‘non-sanctuary city,’” Leyva said. “It really disappoints me because we have separation of federal versus state laws for this reason because we need to protect our citizens within California and especially within Huntington Beach.”
Burns disagrees.
He said his top priority is keeping residents safe.
“It’s putting Huntington Beach first,” he said. “It’s nothing to fight the state on. If it does, so be it, but it’s really to serve Huntington Beach.”
All seven elected members of the City Council are conservative, so the resolution was expected to pass.
Eyewitness News reached out to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office for comment on the vote and hasn’t heard back.
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Huntington Beach Mayor Pat Burns Calls for City to Be Declared ‘Non-Sanctuary City’Huntington Beach Mayor Pat Burns has made it clear that he wants the city to be officially declared a ‘non-sanctuary city.’ In a recent statement, Burns expressed concerns about the safety and well-being of the community, citing the need for stricter enforcement of immigration laws.
Burns emphasized that the city’s resources should be focused on serving its residents and upholding the rule of law, rather than providing sanctuary for undocumented immigrants. He argued that declaring Huntington Beach a non-sanctuary city would send a strong message that the city is committed to protecting its citizens and upholding the law.
The issue of sanctuary cities has been a contentious one, with some arguing that they provide a safe haven for immigrants who are often vulnerable to deportation. However, supporters of non-sanctuary policies believe that they are necessary to ensure public safety and uphold the integrity of the legal system.
It remains to be seen how the city council will respond to Mayor Burns’ call for Huntington Beach to be declared a non-sanctuary city. In the meantime, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to voice their opinions and participate in the decision-making process.
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