Speaking Tuesday to reporters, including Anthony Slater of The Athletic ( all Twitter links ), Warriors head coach Steve Kerr provided a handful of health updates on his banged-up squad. Here's the latest on the injured Warriors, via Kerr: Kevin Durant (calf) has been ruled out for Game 3. He's said to be "ramping up" his exercise routines and will get on the floor at the practice facility later Tuesday for some individual work. Kevon Looney (chest/collarbone) has been ruled out for the rest of the series. We already knew that Looney would be sidelined indefinitely , so this development doesn't come as a huge surprise. Klay Thompson (hamstring) is questionable for Game 3. He did some light work at shootaround Tuesday and wants to play, but the Warriors want to make sure the risk of aggravating the injury isn't significant. Andre Iguodala (calf) will play in Game 3. The calf injury Iguodala suffered vs. Portland is still bothering him, per ESPN's Nick Friedell ( Twitter link ). But he practiced Tuesday and will be good to go on Wednesday. With practically half of their rotation dealing with health issues of some sort, the Warriors may have to lean more heavily on role players like Quinn Cook , Jonas Jerebko , Alfonzo McKinnie and Andrew Bogut on Wednesday. Of course, Stephen Curry , Draymond Green and DeMarcus Cousins will play leading roles. Any Warrior who misses Game 3 will have a couple days to try to get healthy for Game 4, which is scheduled to take place on Friday night. After Game 4, there will be two full days off in between each of the remaining games, which are scheduled for June 10, 13 and 16, if necessary.


Editor's note: The opinions in this article are the author's, as published by our content partner, and do not necessarily represent the views of MSN or Microsoft. If you thought that the theater of the absurd that is the House of Representatives Judiciary Committee couldn't be more farcical, you were wrong. At least absurdist theater has a serious component and attempts to provoke introspection. Chairman Jerry Nadler, D-N.Y., and his minions are so determined to impeach President Trump that they are resorting to vaudevillian comedic gimmicks by bringing in none other than convicted felon and Watergate mastermind John Dean to testify on Monday afternoon. For any who can't remember or never heard of John Dean, which is most of America, he was convicted of obstruction of justice in the early 1970s during Watergate. JASON CHAFFETZ: NADLER 'RUNNING A CLOWN SHOW WITH BUCKETS OF CHICKEN AND CONVICTED FELONS' Think of the determination of my Democrat colleagues. House Oversight Committee Chairman Elijah Cummings, D-Mich., decided that the foundational first witness to lay the groundwork for impeachment would be someone who had already been convicted of lying to Congress   Michael Cohen. Cohen's testimony went over so well that Cummings' buddy, Chairman Jerry Nadler, decided that hearing from another convicted felon is just the spark needed to recharge his flagging impeachment investigation of President Trump. Frankly, when I heard that Nadler was relying on John Dean for Monday's hearing, I thought my staff was punking me. But, as it turns out, John Dean will be Chairman Nadler's special witness. The FBI, at the time, referred to Dean as, "the master manipulator of the coverup" in the Watergate scandal. The former attorney general said that Dean "was at the center of the criminality" of Watergate. The special counsel at the time found 19 material discrepancies between Dean's sworn testimony and the White House recordings. Think of it: he lied, which was provable because there were actual recordings that contradicted Dean's statements   19 times! Seems like someone the Democrats can rely on. Dean turned state's evidence, received a reduced plea deal of only one count of obstruction, and was sentenced to between one and four years in prison. In reality, Dean didn't do time. The sentencing judge gave Dean time served for the few months Dean had been spending in a special federal witness facility. While in the facility, Dean was typically driven daily to an office to work on his book. He has enriched himself with book sales and speaking tours. Dean has spent the years since his conviction and disbarment trying to rehabilitate himself. He is the quintessential 'boy who cried wolf.' Every Republican president since Watergate, according to Dean, has committed acts that are worse than Watergate   and presumably Dean's own part in the coverup. President Trump is just the latest in Dean's decades-long rehabilitation tour. And Chairman Nadler wants to rely on Dean? To do what? Add to the incredulity with which the American public views the attempted Democrat putsch? Speaker Pelosi is so determined to slow the impeachment steamroller from the Democrat base, and a growing faction within her conference, that she is now supporting indictments and prison time for President Trump after he's out of office. But, that will not sate the impeachment lust of her riled-up members. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The emotions of the Democrats are so great that we see the comical reliance on the long-ago discredited John Dean as the star witness for Democrats who demand impeachment. This entire scenario is almost humorous because of Dean's inherent lack of veracity. Sadly, the American people aren't laughing because this incessant obsession of the Democrats is spinning out of control, preventing Congress from addressing the real issues that matter, including our border crisis and the ever-growing national debt, which are only two of our pressing national concerns. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE BY REP. ANDY BIGGS


The Long Beach Pride festivities continued as planned Sunday after law enforcement officials said they found threats against the event were "not credible." Long Beach police said they were made aware of social media posts circulating that referenced potential threats of violence at the annual parade and festival. The message was originally posted on May 6 and had been shared hundreds of times on "numerous platforms," officials said. Officials did not elaborate on the nature of the threats. "There is no current threat to the Pride festival as of now," said Lt. James Richardson of the Long Beach Police Department. As with any major event, Richardson said, extra officers would be on hand to patrol, but no staffing or security was added as a result of the investigation. Travis View, a researcher who studies conspiracy theories, noted that there had been a post on far-right message board 8chan about a potential "false flag" that was "planned for Long Beach Pride." The Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade is celebrating its 36th year. This year's event honors the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which became a watershed moment in the LGBTQ rights movement. The event began with a parade at 10:30 a.m. and was set to continue with a festival featuring live music, DJs and dancing at Marina Green Park until 10 p.m. christine.maiduc@latimes.com For more on California politics, follow @cmaiduc .


A Pittsburgh Uber driver who was charged with holding two women in his car against their will on May 11 is now charged with kidnapping a third woman on the same night, according to court records. Richard Lomotey, 36, was charged Monday with kidnapping the third woman   apparently just before he picked up the other two, according to a criminal complaint. In the third woman's case, she told officers she had been drinking at a club and then walked outside and saw a vehicle with an Uber decal on the windshield. She said she got into the car, gave the driver $10 cash   she didn't use the Uber app   and told him her home address. She said Mr. Lomotey began to ask her about her relationship status, then grabbed her wrist. She said he locked the doors, and she unlocked them, several times. Then, she said they began to tussle because she wanted to get out of the vehicle, according to the complaint. Mr. Lomotey ripped her shirt and bra, she said. "She was so afraid she opened the door and jumped from the moving vehicle at an unknown location in Homewood," the complaint states. Mr. Lomotey briefly slowed down and then sped away, according to the complaint. Moments later, Mr. Lomotey picked up two other women on Frankstown Avenue who he is also accused of kidnapping, according to the complaint. One of those women said she saw another woman running down the road, limping and with torn clothing, shortly after she got into the Uber. She said she told Mr. Lomotey to stop and help the woman, but he refused. Police believe the woman seen running is the same woman that Mr. Lomotey had just attacked, according to court records. He was charged with kidnapping, assault, unlawful restraint and reckless endangerment. The Monaca man is a assistant professor of information sciences and technology, as well as a part-time instructor at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Computing and Information, according to the universities' websites. Uber has called his alleged behavior "unacceptable" and said they are cooperating with police.


When the Bears decided to pick up Leonard Floyd's fifth-year option earlier this year, they made a statement. They believe that Floyd can ultimately become the explosive pass rusher they believed he could be when they drafted him No. 9 overall in 2016. While Floyd's numbers over the past couple of seasons have been underwhelming - including a career-low four sacks in 2018 - there's hope that Floyd can have that breakout season. NFL.com analyst Willie McGinest certainly believes so. McGinest believes that Floyd is among four young pass rushers poised for a breakout season in 2019. He projects Floyd will have 11 sacks in 2019, which would be a career-high. The closest Floyd got to that number was during his rookie season when he registered seven sacks. Floyd, who is entering his fourth season with the Bears, has failed to eclipse five sacks in each of his past two seasons. Floyd was limited by injuries, including a broken hand last season, but in terms of production he wasn't where the Bears needed him to be. With a healthy offseason to work on perfecting the different elements of his game, Floyd believes that he can build off his success late last season and this past offseason. "I believe I was playing my best football during the second half of last year after I really got over my hand injury," he told the Chicago Tribune. "I felt like I was playing a lot better and I am looking forward to this year and just building off of that." As a pass rusher, sacks and quarterback pressures are how you're effectively judged. While Floyd has struggled in those regards over the past couple of seasons, outside linebackers coach Ted Monachino believes that as Floyd continues to work on those elements of his game that those numbers will go up. "(What) may happen first are the effective rushes, right?" Monachino told the Chicago Tribune. "He may affect the quarterback. He may affect the launch point. He may move a guy off the spot. But the more of those that come along, the more productive rushes he's going to have. The more he's going to get home and finish." It certainly doesn't hurt when you're lining up opposite Khalil Mack. But if Floyd can become a force opposite Mack, the Bears defense will be an even bigger menace to opposing quarterbacks. MORE: This perfect Shaq impersonation at the NBA Awards show had fans in tears NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Roundup: Donald Trump on Iran; Bernie Sanders' Proposal; Jussie Smollett; Coffee and Fat Loss Play speed fuels standout offseason for Packers WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling Heading into training camp: How keeping a 4th TE impacts roster construction


GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The staff at the Infiniti of Grand Rapids got a sweet surprise yesterday when they found a furry stowaway on the spare tire of the vehicle they were working on. According to a Facebook post from the dealership, the service department was about to work on a QX80 on Wednesday when the little, orange kitten started to meow. The kitten apparently hitched a ride to the shop located on Breton Road SE. But the kitten was pulled out to safety and given plenty of snuggles. The dealership coined the kitten "Spare Tire" until he was adopted -- which happened fairly quickly. The kitten is already in its new home and getting acclimated. His new family settled on the name "Glitch." ►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now . Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com , visit our Facebook page or Twitter .


Who's that girl? Several nude photos of Madonna from a 1979 photo session will published in the May issue of Playboy as a feature called "Madonna: The Lost Nudes." The never-before-seen images were taken more than 35 years ago by photographer Martin H.M. Schreiber at his Manhattan studio. After she became a pop star, Schreiber photographed her a second time for the September 1985 issue of Playboy. (Madonna famously published her own book of erotic photographs entitled "Sex" in 1992.) The rare photos of the Material Girl are featured in Schreiber's new book, "A Retrospective 1966-2014," which is scheduled to be released in June. A select number of images from his portfolio, including 12 black-and-white prints from his shoot with Madonna, are available for purchase on his website. The May issue of Playboy hits newsstands April 17.


WASHINGTON   President Donald Trump's series of attacks this week against four Democratic women   all minorities   has stirred outrage but it's far from the first time he has stoked racial tensions. Trump has created controversy for years with incendiary rhetoric that is often directed at people of color   from his branding of the Central Park Five as "muggers and murderers" to his peddling of the false " birther" conspiracy against then-President Barack Obama to his denigrating of a former African-American aide as a "dog." Here are a dozen times when Trump has fueled racial tensions: 'The Squad' Trump's attacks against four liberal Democratic congresswomen   all women of color   started Sunday with a series of tweets in which he suggested they should "go back" to their country of origin. The remarks were met with a barrage of criticism, but Trump refused to back down, saying they "hate our country" and that "if they don't like it, let them leave." Three of the congresswomen   Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez; Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass.; and Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich.   were born in the United States. The fourth, Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., was born in Somalia, but her family fled that country's civil war when she was 8 years old and eventually settled in Minneapolis. She became an American citizen at age 17. Trump continued his attack on all four, sometimes dubbed "the Squad ," during a fiery rally in North Carolina on Wednesday, drawing jeers and chants of "send her back" as he mentioned their names. The rally cemented the notion that Trump is using the recent controversy as a theme of his reelection campaign to draw a distinction between himself and Democrats. Doubling down on criticism: Trump slams 'squad' during North Carolina rally as crowd chants 'send her back' Omarosa Manigault Newman Trump furiously attacked former aide Omarosa Manigault Newman , who is black, calling her "a dog" and a "crazed crying lowlife." Trump's rampage last summer against his former aide came after Manigault Newman wrote a book about her White House tenure that was highly critical of the president. Manigault Newman also released a tape in which she and three other officials in Trump's 2016 presidential campaign discussed the possibility of another tape in which Trump supposedly uses a racial slur. Rumors about a racist tape, supposedly from outtakes of Trump's television program "The Apprentice," on which Manigault Newman was a contestant, surfaced during the last month of the campaign. Manigault Newman has claimed that she has heard the tape, but no audio has publicly surfaced with Trump using the "n" word. But on the tape Manigault Newman released, campaign spokesperson Katrina Pierson could be heard saying, "He said it. He is embarrassed by it." Trump, who denies making the remark, unleashed a tirade against Newman on Twitter. "When you give a crazed, crying lowlife a break, and give her a job at the White House, I guess it just didn't work out," the president tweeted about Manigault Newman. "Good work by General Kelly for quickly firing that dog!" He was referring to John Kelly, who at the time was White House chief of staff and fired Manigault Newman nine months earlier. More: President Trump fires back at 'wacky' Omarosa: 'Apprentice' tapes don't exist LeBron James and Don Lemon Basketball star LeBron James sat down with CNN's Don Lemon for an interview last August after he cut the ribbon on his foundation's new I Promise School in his native Akron, Ohio. James spoke at length on the intersection of sports, culture and politics. He said during the interview that Trump was "using sports to kinda divide us, and that's something that I can't relate to." Not long after, the president tweeted about the interview and James, belittling the intelligence of both the basketball player and Lemon. "Lebron (sic) James was just interviewed by the dumbest man on television, Don Lemon," Trump tweeted. "He made Lebron (sic) look smart, which isn't easy to do. I like Mike!" Lemon didn't mince words when he talked about the controversy for nine minutes on CNN. "The president has called a lot of people stupid," Lemon said. "Some of those people are white. But I would just like to note that referring to an African American as dumb   remember this is America   is one of the oldest canards of America's racist past and present: that black people are of inferior intelligence." He continued: "This president traffics in racism and is fueled by bullying." 'Don Lemon made him look smart': President Trump bashes LeBron James over CNN interview Maxine Waters One of Trump's favorite targets has been Congresswoman Maxine Waters. He has criticized the California Democrat's intelligence many times, saying she has an "extraordinarily low I.Q." He has repeated the phrase at countless rallies and over Twitter. "Congresswoman Maxine Waters, an extraordinarily low IQ person, has become, together with Nancy Pelosi, the Face of the Democrat Party," Trump posted on Twitter in June. "She has just called for harm to supporters, of which there are many, of the Make America Great Again movement. Be careful what you wish for Max!" Charlottesville Trump's comments after a white nationalists' rally in Charlottesville , Va., has been dubbed by critics as one of the lowest points in his presidency. Trump said there were "fine people on both sides" of the rally   both the counterprotesters and those members of the alt-right who did Nazi salutes and chants. Trump also said "both sides" were to blame for the violence. A woman who was protesting against the white nationalists was killed after a car rammed into a group marching down a street. The president's comments after the rally fluctuated from condemning the white nationalists, Nazis and the Ku Klux Klan to then again blaming both sides for what happened. MS-13 'animals' Trump has used the word "animal" many times to describe those accused of crimes, whether it's gang members or terrorists in the U.S. or abroad. In May 2018, Trump was criticized after using the word "animals" to describe people crossing the border. At first, many took his comments as immigrants were animals. The White House clarified that the president was dubbing MS-13 gang members animals. During a discussion about MS-13, Trump said: "We have people coming into the country, or trying to come in   and we're stopping a lot of them   but we're taking people out of the country. You wouldn't believe how bad these people are. These aren't people. These are animals. And we're taking them out of the country at a level and at a rate that's never happened before." Many of the president's critics said the comments were dehumanizing and shouldn't be used no matter who it's being used to describe. 'We have to be very, very tough': Trump doubles down on calling MS-13 gang members 'animals,' praises Rod Rosenstein NFL players As NFL protests picked up steam and more and more players refused to stand for the National Anthem, Trump chimed in. "Wouldn't you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, 'Get that son-of-a-b***h off the field right now. Out! He's fired. He's fired!'" Trump said at a rally in 2017. The players who took a knee were protesting police brutality and racism after a number of high-profile cases where black men had been shot and killed by police officers. Faced with criticism, Trump did what he frequently does. He took to Twitter again. "The NFL players are at it again   taking a knee when they should be standing proudly for the National Anthem. Numerous players, from different teams, wanted to show their 'outrage' at something that most of them are unable to define," Trump tweeted. Judge in Trump University case Trump once argued that a judge involved in his Trump University court case ruled against him because of the judge's heritage. Trump claimed it was a conflict of interest to have U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel handling his case because he is of Mexican descent. Curiel was born in the United States. Trump said that Curiel's heritage meant the judge doesn't like him because he wants to build a wall between the United States and Mexico. "I have had horrible rulings, I have been treated unfairly by this judge," said in June 2016 during his campaign for president. "Now this judge is of Mexican heritage, I'm building a wall." 'S***hole' countries During immigration talks in the Oval Office in January 2018, Trump reportedly grew frustrated, using a crude description of Haiti, El Salvador and African countries, according to a report from The Washington Post . "Why are we having all these people from s***hole countries come here?" Trump reportedly told lawmakers. The president then suggested that the U.S. try to increase immigration from countries like Norway, whose prime minister he had recently met. Obama 'birther' conspiracy Well before he became president, Trump was one of the loudest voices of the "birther" conspiracy. He claimed that then-president Obama was not born in the U.S. and even went as far as claiming that he'd sent investigators to Hawaii, where Obama was born. Even after Obama released a long-form version of his birth certificate, hoping to quell the conspiracy, Trump kept floating the idea that Obama was an illegitimate president. He largely avoided the subject during his 2016 presidential campaign but did eventually acknowledge Obama was born in the U.S. while also falsely claiming Hillary Clinton was to blame for creating the conspiracy. Muslim Gold Star parents Critics, including some fellow Republicans, blasted Trump's feud with the Muslim parents of a fallen soldier . Khizr Khan , who lost a son in the Iraq war, spoke out against Trump multiple times, most notably during the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. Khan assailed Trump for proposals that would bar Muslim entry into the United States and may not have allowed his son into the United States had they been in place. Khan urged Trump to read the U.S. Constitution and told him "you have sacrificed nothing." Responding, Trump suggested that the Clinton campaign wrote Khan's convention speech and that Khan's wife did not speak at the convention because she was forbidden. Trump continued to tweet about the Khans, saying the story shouldn't be about him but rather "radical Islamic terrorism and the U.S." "Mr. Khan, who does not know me, viciously attacked me from the stage of the DNC and is now all over T.V. doing the same   Nice!" Trump said in another tweet. A number of Republicans took aim at Trump with the controversy that surrounded the feud. Then-Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., said Trump has "disparaged a fallen soldier's parents" and in the past "has suggested that the likes of their son should not be allowed in the United States   to say nothing of entering its service. I cannot emphasize enough how deeply I disagree with Mr. Trump's statement." Central Park Five Trump has repeatedly disparaged a group of black and Latino men wrongly accused of assaulting a white female jogger in Central Park in 1989. Raymond Santana, Kevin Richardson, Antron McCray, Yusef Salaam and Korey Wise were all boys when they were convicted of raping Trisha Meili. They were then found innocent of the crime after convicted murder Matias Reyes in 2002 confessed to raping Meili, which was confirmed by DNA evidence. The city awarded the men $41 million in 2014, a decade after some of the men initially sued the city for how it handled the case. In 1989, Trump, then a popular business mogul, spent $85,000 worth of ads published in The New York Times, The Daily News, The New York Post and New York Newsday in which he lamented crime in the city and claimed there was no more "law and order." 'They admitted their guilt': 30 years of Trump's comments about the Central Park Five Trump claimed the city was being "ruled by the law of the streets, as roving bands of wild criminals roam our neighborhoods, dispensing their own vicious brand of twisted hatred on whomever they encounter." Trump said he hated "these muggers and murderers." He has refused to back down, again calling them "muggers" on Twitter in 2013 and labeling the $41 "a disgrace." Around a month before the 2016 election, Trump stood by his opinion that the five men were guilty even though they have since been exonerated of the crime. Contributing: John Fritze, David Jackson, Rebecca Morin This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: From the 'Central Park Five' to 'the squad': A dozen times Donald Trump has stoked racial tensions


Plenty of NFL players will take issue with their Madden ratings. Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu is taking issue with someone else's. Mathieu has taken up for former teammate Deshaun Watson . The Texans quarterback somehow has emerged from the Madden laboratory with an 82. " Ain't no way Deshaun Watson a 82 ," Mathieu tweeted. "No wonder kids are playing [Fortnite] now." Watson is one of several quarterbacks who can have (if they care) a beef with their Madden rating . Watson may care, but he's not the type to complain about it directly. Mathieu's complaint ensures that we're talking about the new Madden game. Still, that may not be the best type of publicity, since concerns about the accuracy of the ratings could prompt some gamers to choose Fortnite (or something else) over the only NFL-licensed video game on the market.


Earlier this year, Opera launched its cryptocurrency and blockchain-ready browser for Android and PC users. Today, it's finally launching its equivalent for iPhone, Opera Touch. With the launch, Opera Touch for iOS provides the same Web 3.0 and cryptocurrency wallet integration as its Android and PC-based counterpart . Opera says that it allows users to interact directly and seamlessly with Web 3.o (read: decentralized) applications on the Ethereum blockchain. Typically, users would need a browser add-on, like MetaMask, to do this, but with Opera Touch, it all comes as part of the package. "We believe that all modern browsers should integrate a crypto wallet," said Opera's head of crypto, Charles Hamel. "Following a strong demand from the crypto-community, we are now making this experience available on iOS." According to the release, Opera Touch supports all ERC-20 tokens, stablecoins, and non-fungible (unique) tokens. Apple iOS users can download the app from Apple's App store starting from today, purchase some Ethereum, send it to their Opera Touch wallet, and start using it in dapps. As with the PC and Andoird version, users will also be able to browse blockchain applications by typing their addresses directly into the URL bar, Opera said previously. There is also a built-in virtual private network (VPN) that Opera claims is designed to obscure and protect user data from prying eyes. Indeed, Opera's plans for an iOS version of its crypto-browser are hardly a secret. Back in March, it teased that one was on its way and put out an invitiation for beta testers. Sure, these features may have already been released for Android and PC, but at least now iOS users can get in on the decentralized fun.


With cornerback Patrick Peterson set to miss the first six games of the regular season because of a suspension for violating the league's policy on performance-enhancing substances, the Arizona Cardinals must figure out who will start in his place opposite Robert Alford. Coach Kliff Kingsbury said the decision will be between veteran Tramaine Brock, rookie Byron Murphy and second-year player Chris Jones, at least for now. However, as Brock appears to be firmly set as the team's slot cornerback , it is Murphy, whom the Cardinals selected with the first pick of the second round of the draft, who seems to be headed to the starting lineup. Peterson practiced on Thursday with the first team and Murphy practiced at outside cornerback and in the slot with the second team. Kingsbury made it sound like Murphy will have to take Peterson's spot, whether or not he is completely ready. "With the need, there's not going to be much choice there," Kingsbury said, according to Kyle Odegard for the official team site . Kingsbury, though, has confidence in the rookie. "Byron is a confident young man," he said. "He played at a very high level in a big-time conference under the bright lights over and over in his career, and showed up in those games. There will be growing pains. We know that. But we like what we've seen. And if he's thrust in there, I know he's going to be fired up for the opportunity." The Cardinals rated Murphy as the top cornerback in the draft and considered him the No. 5 player overall. They believe he has the potential to be great. However, even Patrick Peterson, one of the best in the game, had struggles as a rookie. The question is whether the Cardinals can survive any inevitable mistakes Murphy might make while in the starting lineup for six weeks. Things, of course, can change. Brock could be outside guy and Murphy might play in the slot. Brock might start and then slide inside for nickel packages and Murphy plays outside. And Chris Jones still could surpass him. However, anyway it happens, it is highly likely Murphy will be in the lineup once the regular season begins. Listen to the latest from Cards Wire's Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio . View embedded content MORE: UFC's Thiago Santos shares brutal update on injuries suffered in loss to Jon Jones Observations from Lions training camp, Day 2: Welcome to the T.J. Hockenson show Stidham quickly making progress in Patriots' system Report: Bills trade for Jadeveon Clowney not likely Packers training camp practice roundup: July 26


A GoFundMe page seeking to bring a blimp depicting President Donald Trump as a baby to Orlando has reached its goal ahead of the president's Tuesday visit. The page claims that it reached its fundraising goal in under 24 hours. "With 167 small-dollar donors in under 24 hours, we raised enough funds to bring Baby Trump to Orlando," a message on the GoFundMe page said. The page was seeking $3,500 and raised more than $3,800. According to the page, the balloon will be visible at the Win With Love rally that is planned at Stonewall Bar Orlando, a few blocks away from the arena, on Church Street. President Trump will officially kick off his re-election bid with a rally at the Amway Center. Doors open at 4 p.m. and the event is expected to start at 8 p.m. READ MORE: Group claims it's bringing baby Donald Trump blimp to Orlando CHECK OUT WESH: Stay in the know with the latest Orlando news, weather and sports. Get the top stories and all the scores from the team at WESH.


The Houston Texans needed to get younger, faster, and bigger at cornerback, and the drafting of Kentucky's Lonnie Johnson in Round 2 of the 2019 NFL draft helped them meet that objective. Coach Bill O'Brien knows the size the 6-2, 213-pound defensive back can bring to the defense, and is looking forward to bringing the rookie up to NFL speed. "Lonnie's a guy that's got good size, he can run, good guy," O'Brien told reporters Friday after day one of rookie minicamp at NRG Stadium. "We're really excited to work with him." However, O'Brien recognizes the limitations Johnson and the rest of the 25 rookies have coming into minicamp, which helps temper the coach's excitement acquiring Johnson. "None of these guys right now are in football shape," said O'Brien. "That's why I stopped the drill there a little bit earlier to make sure they saw how hard they were breathing. I mean, this is nothing compared to what training camp will be like out here in a couple months. They've been all getting ready for what you would call the 'Underwear Olympics' - the broad jump, the vertical jump, the 40-yard dash." Johnson recorded a 4.52 in the 40-yard dash along with a 38-inch vertical. With nearly an arm length of nearly 33 inches, the former Wildcat has the physical skill set to challenge receivers and eliminate seemingly open windows for targets. "All the stuff that is measurable but has nothing to do with football relative to playing football," O'Brien said. "They're not in shape, so they have to understand that and I think that's the big thing." Johnson will have the opportunity to get in shape as phase two of the team's offseason program commences the Monday after rookie minicamp. If Johnson can get up to speed and adapt quickly to the pro game, it will help the Houston secondary in a competitive AFC South. MORE: Most bizarre and incredible catches by fishermen in past decade NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Riley Ridley was one of the best value picks from the 2019 NFL draft Kyrie Irving 'has had discussions' about playing for the Lakers Richard Sherman: 'The secondary wasn't the issue last year'


Amy Poehler talks about her frustration while watching the movie Free Solo and how her son and the royal baby share a name.


The man accused of shooting dead 51 Muslim worshippers in the Christchurch mosque attacks in March smiled Friday as his lawyers entered not guilty pleas to multiple murder and terrorism charges. Brenton Tarrant's barrister told Christchurch High Court his client was pleading not guilty to all charges, prompting anger from survivors and relatives of those killed in the March 15 attacks. The self-proclaimed white supremacist appeared in court via audio-visual link from a maximum-security prison in Auckland for the brief hearing. Tarrant, a 28-year-old Australian national, was committed to stand trial next year on 51 counts of murder, 40 of attempted murder and engaging in a terrorist act. His smiling demeanour enraged survivors still reeling from the worst massacre in modern New Zealand history, who had packed the courthouse's public gallery for a glimpse of the accused. "It just shows he's an animal," Mustafa Boztas, who was wounded in the thigh, told AFP outside the court. "I feel sad that someone can be so unhuman and take the lives of innocent people." Abdul Aziz, who confronted the gunman at the Linwood mosque and chased him off the premises, said he wanted to see Tarrant's face. "He was laughing there (in court) and he thinks he was so tough, but he was a coward when he faced me and he ran," he said. "He was not man enough to stand up that time and (now) he's standing there and laughing. "Put me for 15 minutes in one cell and then we will see if he can laugh any more." - Fit for trial - Tarrant allegedly opened fire in the packed Al Noor mosque during Friday prayers, then travelled across town to continue the carnage in the suburban Linwood mosque, while livestreaming his actions on social media. The court heard that mental health assessments had found Tarrant was fit to stand trial. "No issue arises regarding the defendant's fitness to plead, to instruct counsel, and to stand his trial. A fitness hearing is not required," Judge Cameron Mander said in a statement shortly after the hearing. The judge set a trial date of May 4, 2020, with proceedings expected to last at least six weeks, although some lawyers warned the case -- sure to be one of the biggest-ever in New Zealand -- could go twice as long. "The court endeavours to bring serious criminal cases to trial within a year of arrest. The scale and complexity of this case makes this challenging," Mander said. Didar Hossain, whose uncle and friends were killed in the attack, was disappointed the justice system was taking so long to deal with the case. "It should be finished in six months, that would be good for us. We are not happy," he said. Tarrant was remanded in custody to appear for a case review hearing to be held on August 15. Mander barred news outlets from taking photographs or video of Tarrant's latest court appearance, although he said images from an earlier hearing could be used. He also lifted suppression orders on the names of those who were wounded in the attacks, except for those aged under 18. The killings badly rattled normally peaceful New Zealand, with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern earning international acclaim for her compassionate response towards the country's small, tight-knit Muslim community. Her government tightened gun laws and set about reviewing laws dealing with hate speech, as well as spearheading global efforts to ensure social media giants do more to combat online extremism. Boztas, who spent more than a month in hospital receiving treatment for his wounded leg, vowed the hatred that inspired the attacks would not prevail. "Justice will be served and we will rise from this and transform anger into love," he said.


From Messi to Ronaldo, here are some iconic footballers depicted as street art around the world Mohamed Salah (in Cairo, Egypt) Lionel Messi (in Barcelona, Spain) Cristiano Ronaldo (in Paris, France) Gabriel Jesus (in São Paulo, Brazil) Diego Maradona (in Naples, Italy) Thierry Henry (in Paris, France) Garrincha (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Ángel Di María (in Rosario, Argentina) Claudio Ranieri (in Leicester, England) Pelé (in Santos, Brazil) Andrea Pirlo (in Paris, France) Fred (in Kolkata, India) Franz Beckenbauer (in Paris, France) Antonio Puerta (in Seville, Spain) Jamie Vardy (in Leicester, England) Marco van Basten (in Paris, France) Neymar (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Jairzinho (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Bobby Moore (in London, England) Sofiane Feghouli (Gaza Strip) Artyom Dzyuba (in Moscow, Russia) Lionel Messi (in Rosario, Argentina) Francesco Totti (in Rome, Italy) Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Arjen Robben and Andrea Pirlo (Gaza Strip) Diego Maradona (in Naples, Italy) George Best (in Belfast, Northern Ireland) Cristiano Ronaldo (in Saransk, Russia) Francesco Totti (in Rome, Italy) Paolo Maldini (in Paris, France) Giacinto Facchetti (in Milan, Italy) Edinson Cavani (in Naples, Italy) Zinedine Zidane (in Paris, France) Lionel Messi (in Kolkata, India) Neymar (in Kazan, Russia) Philipp Lahm (in Paris, France) Garrincha, Fred, Roberto Dinamite and Zico (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Sebastián Abreu (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Carles Puyol (in Paris, France) Djalma Santos (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Nilton Santos (in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) Dani Alves, David Luiz and Neymar (in Dhaka, Bangladesh) Andrés Iniesta (in Paris, France) Gianluigi Buffon (in Paris, France) Diego Maradona (in Buenos Aires, Argentina) Luka Modrić (in Kaliningrad, Russia) Pelé (R) (in São Paulo, Brazil) Gianluigi Buffon (in Turin, Italy) Cristiano Ronaldo, Mario Balotelli, Andrés Iniesta, Franck Ribéry, Lionel Messi and Neymar (in São Paulo, Brazil) Edinson Cavani (in Salto, Uruguay) Cristiano Ronaldo (in Kazan, Russia)


These seven active Monster Energy Series drivers prove how versatile they can be, with each driver winning at a minimum of 15 different tracks. Everyone knows that variety is the spice of life. These seven active Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series drivers prove how versatile they are, with each driver winning at a minimum of 15 different tracks of the 24 currently on the Cup Series schedule. Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 1 Chip Ganassi Racing Chevrolet, has won at 15 different tracks over his 19-year career. Hasn't won at: Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018), Chicagoland, Darlington, Indianapolis, Kansas, Kentucky, Las Vegas, Talladega, Watkins Glen Tied with Kurt Busch, Joey Logano also has won at 15 different tracks. Hasn't won at: Atlanta, Auto Club, Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018), Chicagoland, Darlington, Dover, Indianapolis, Kentucky, Sonoma Coming in fifth place on this list, Denny Hamlin has won at 16 different tracks. Hasn't won at: Auto Club, Charlotte, Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018), Dover, Indianapolis, Kentucky, Las Vegas, Sonoma Winning at 17 different tracks in his career so far, will Brad Keselowski be able to check more tracks off of his list this season? Hasn't won at: Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018), Homestead-Miami, ISM Raceway (Phoenix), Michigan, Watkins Glen, Sonoma, Texas Seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson is coming in at third, winning at 20 different tracks in the Monster Energy Series. Hasn't won at: Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018), Chicagoland, Kentucky, Watkins Glen Runner-up for the most wins by track goes to Kevin Harvick. Winning at 21 tracks, Harvick is only three tracks away from a career sweep. With Pocono Raceway being in the mix of tracks he has yet to win at, could this weekend bring Harvick up to 22? Hasn't won at: Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018), Kentucky, Pocono Taking the top spot for most wins at various tracks is Kyle Busch, winning at 23 different tracks in his Monster Energy Series career so far. Hasn't won at: Charlotte Roval (debuted in 2018)


All of the stars were aligned Friday night for the Houston Rockets to get a victory against the Golden State Warriors in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semifinals . The royal couple of hip hop , Beyonce and Jay-Z, were in attendance . So was the Queen of Dragons, Emelia Clarke aka Khaleesi. That still wasn't enough, and Golden State advanced yet again to the Western Conference Finals after w inning 118-113 in the Toyota Center. Playing without their superstar Kevin Durant due to a right calf strain, the Warriors went back to the pre-KD style of play that helped them go to two straight NBA finals in 2015 and 2016. They ran a ton of motion and screens that helped free up their shooters. "There was a lot of times when it felt like that. A lot of pace and a lot of movement. Just trying to push the tempo. With Kevin on the floor, you can kind of be lazy because you know he is going to always get a bucket. To not have that luxury is a big change for us. It definitely felt a little throwback-ish for sure," Warriors forward Draymond Green said postgame. Green finished with a well-rounded game, as did Klay Thompson , who poured in 21 first-half points. Thompson's five three-pointers kept the Warriors afloat while his teammates - specifically Stephen Curry - struggled to get their games goin g. Curry finished the first half scoreless - the first time in 102 playoff games he has gone scoreless - after missing five shots and picking up three fouls. "I was pretty terrible," Curry said. " I just didn't make a shot, fouling . I think the only thing I did well was not turn the ball over for the 12 minutes I was out there on the floor. So , I find a positive in everything." It's unclear what was said to Curry during halftime, but he put on a second-half clinic that sent the Rockets home, dropping 23 points in the fourth quarter alone. Curry also hit two dagger three-pointers as the fourth quarter winded down, and was a perfect eight-for-eight from the free throw line in the final 30 seconds. "It did not surprise me one bit," Thompson told the media about Curry's second-half performance. "The man is a competitor, champion, and on top of all that he plays with such great heart. He's our leader and his composure is unbelievable as well." Curry and Thompson, the infamous "Splash Brothers" combined for 60 points. Houston did everything it could to try and stave off elimination and give themselves a chance at one more game . James Harden led all scorers with 35 points, eight rebounds and three steels and his backcourt teammate Chris Paul redeemed himself from a horrible Game 5 performance with 27 points and 11 rebounds. But it was the lack of production from Clint Capela (10 points) and Eric Gordon (nine points) that sent the Rockets home for the second straight year against the Warriors. " We let a lot of opportunities slip away. Opportunities in the last game, opportunities in game one and two. If you don't take advantage of the opportunities, you end up on the losing side," Harden said in his post-game press conference. The Rockets head back into the offseason trying to figure out what went wrong again against the Warriors who have eliminated them from the playoffs four out of the last five years. Harden was asked what's next. "Keep fighting, man," he said. "They're a great team. We're not losing to some scrubs. We've got to find a way to keep getting better. Keep growing." James Harden on how to approach the Warriors in the future: "Keep fighting man, they're a great team. We're not losing to some scrubs. We just gotta find a way to keep getting better and put ourselves in a position." - Michelle Margaux (@mmargaux8) May 11, 2019 MORE: Chris Paul's dirty dealings before Game 6 yield epic comeuppance Adrian Wojnarowski on how the Lakers' chaos could actually help LeBron NBA Free Agency 2019: The top players Daniel Jones has been accepted, embraced inside of Giants' locker room DirecTV's hold on Sunday Ticket becomes more tenuous as a competitor enters


Houston's biggest industries may be scrambling to manage escalating costs next month if President Donald Trump follows through with his threat to place tariffs on all goods imported from Mexico, Houston's largest trading partner. The president on Thursday night tweeted that the U.S. will impose a 5 percent tariff on all Mexican goods on June 10, which would gradually increase until the influx of immigrants and asylum seekers at the Mexican border ceases. If the tariffs are implemented, the impact to Houston's economy would be profound, pushing up costs for everything from automotive parts to Mexican crude oil and food, beverages and produce. Trade between Houston and Mexico averages $23.4 billion per year, according to estimates from the Greater Houston Partnership, and about 75 percent of U.S. Mexico land trade, worth approximately $343 billion in 2015, crosses through a Texas port of entry, according to research by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. The value of trade between Houston and Mexico has gradually expanded since 2016, primarily due to the growth in the price of fuels, oil and refined products. In the last year, trade between the local economy and the Mexico increased 22.7 percent, up to $24.6 billion. Whether the tariffs will be imposed remains uncertain. Immediately following the President's tweet, Mexico President Andrés Manuel López Obrador responded with a letter requesting the matter be resolved with dialogue. Mexican officials traveled Friday to Washington to meet with U.S. representatives in person regarding the dispute. Back-and-forth manufacturing Fuels, oil and refined products, iron or steel, and motor vehicles and parts make up the bulk of imports from Mexico to Houston, and would prove the most costly for the local economy. The most impacted sector for Mexico would be manufacturing, according to analysts from JP Morgan Chase, which could threaten businesses that trade with Houston companies. Several manufacturers, particularly in the automotive industry, ship parts back and forth from Texas to Mexico on a daily basis, completing one part of the vehicle in one country and finishing it in another. This symbiotic relationship poses a problem for businesses and Texas' economy when trade agreements are threatened, said Jesus Cañas, a senior business economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. This manufacturing process essentially means that companies may pay tariffs multiple times in order to assemble one product, and cross-border manufacturing operations are an important part of corporate strategy to achieve competitively priced goods in the U.S., according to recent analysis by Cañas . "They need these inputs every day, so if we have disruptions that worries me a lot," said Cañas in a previous interview with the Houston Chronicle. "(Disruptions) eventually could damage the competitiveness of Texas businesses." Oil hit first If tariffs are imposed, they could represent a potentially serious blow for the Texas oil and gas sector, in particular raising costs for Gulf Coast refineries configured to process heavier grades that rely on Mexican crude. With sanctions on Venezuela limiting the amount of heavy crude inputs to Houston refineries, companies may have to absorb any cost increases due to the tariffs, as it is difficult for refineries to reconfigure their facilities to use much more of the lighter domestic crude oil being produced in West Texas. U.S. refineries imported more than 660,000 barrels of oil from Mexico in February, more than any nation besides Canada, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. "Refineries can switch over to lighter feedstocks of crude, but it's less efficient and less profitable, for sure," Herbert said. The President's threat already hit oil and gas on Friday as oil prices fell to their lowest levels since February. The U.S. benchmark West Texas Intermediate was below $56 per barrel, a 2 percent drop from Thursday's close. With global demand growth for crude half of what was forecast over the last three months of 2018, the potential for continuing price declines is high, said Bill Herbert, managing director at Houston-based Simmons Energy. "People are running for the hills and asking questions later, and I don't think that's going to stop until we get a cessation in the rhetoric from the White House," he said. "Oil prices have been falling since mid to late-April. It's predominantly trade and growing fears of economic deceleration." Local business leaders push back Local business leaders condemned the President's statement on Friday, commenting that it would hurt Texas and does little to correct the immigration system. "Immigration will not be resolved by tariffs; however, trade can be used to induce cooperative partnerships," Eddie Aldrete, the chairman of the Texas Mexico Trade Coalition, wrote in a statement. "Illegal immigration is an issue that impacts both Mexico and the United States and is, therefore, an issue we need to work on together, side by side." --With assistance from Jordan Blum.


We can only imagine this as a tough call for someone who owns a Quattroporte. As a vehicle owner, how much are truth are you willing to know about your car? We're pretty sure many will answer a lot and it's rightfully so. More so, if you're talking about an Italian luxury car that starts north of the 100-grand price mark. Research the latest new models from Maserati Such is the story of Youtube's Luxury Lives On , a proud owner of a Maserati Quattroporte. In his quest to find out which parts of his car is shared with the rest of the brands in the Italian-American FCA group, he went to Chrysler dealerships to find a salesman who can help. It was almost a failed attempt until he found one who voluntarily gave him the answers that he's looking for. According to the salesman and the video creator's extensive research, here are the parts of Quattroporte that are shared with other names within the FCA Group's extensive lineup of vehicles: Self Sealing Gas Filler Lock/Window/Mirror Controls Behind Steering Wheel Channel/Volume Buttons Seat Adjustment Controls Trunk Release Button Touch Screen Dial/Screen Cluster Frame Layout In Trunk Lock/Close Buttons Light Fob Switch/Start Button/Interior Dimming Wheel 12V Auxiliary/USB Plugs Turn Indicator/Windscreen Washer Stalk The video creator added that the only things that he had uncertainty about parts sharing are the tech-related items such as parking sensors and cameras. He didn't have time to test other related vehicles for this. What's Up for Maserati These Days: Ex-NBA Superstar Ray Allen Gets One-Off Maserati Levante Maserati Alfieri Reveal Set For 2020 Geneva Motor Show To be fair, having a parts bin for its cars is a logical business move for a huge automotive company like the FCA Group. Having to design trivial parts separately would be tedious and not to mention costly. The only downside is, as the buyer, it isn't a pleasant idea to discover that your six-digit luxury sedan is sharing parts with cars with lesser price tags in the company's lineup. Nevertheless, with the Quattroporte's price tag, you're pretty much paying for the fine leather-clad cabin and the technology that's employed under the hood. The question is, are the shared plastic parts hard to turn a blind eye on? Source : Luxury Lives On via Youtube


It's funny how narratives shift. Not long ago, the drag effect of the qualifying offer was perhaps the single hottest topic in discussions of open-market dynamics. Now, broader forces have far eclipsed it in importance while rule changes have reduced the impact of the compensation system. Let's not ignore the interplay between the qualifying-offer rule tweaks and the other CBA changes that have helped suppress free-agent earnings. The new qualifying offer rules represented a concession by the owners but one that really helped only a limited range of players: those good enough to receive significant one-year offers from their existing clubs (most recently, the price was set at $17.9 million) but not so overwhelmingly appealing that the draft compensation was but a minor consideration. The burn was felt most by very good but somewhat flawed and/or older players. Reducing the magnitude of draft compensation helps, but those same players have gone on to be squeezed by other changes to rules and market dynamics. In any event, the present market setting is one in which the qualifying-offer factor is actually perhaps underappreciated. Parting with draft picks for the right to pay top dollar to a free agent is still a tough pill to swallow for some teams. And there's little doubt that the cost will be passed through to the player. As Braves GM Alex Anthopoulos has put it , "we'll put the value into an offer, but it wouldn't stop us." The inverse of that sentence might be a more accurate way of stating the prevailing approach. As you're no doubt aware if you've read this far, there are two remaining free agents who declined a qualifying offer this past winter: all-time-great reliever Craig Kimbrel (Red Sox) and former Cy Young-winning starter Dallas Keuchel (Astros). This is the age-31 season for both players. They each have had their hiccups; despite producing generally commendable results of late, neither was at his finest form in 2018. Draft compensation has surely played a role in their rather stunning failure to sign to this point of the season, although it's far from the only or even the predominant factor. Both Kimbrel and Keuchel decided against settling for short-term bailout offers that emerged when their markets didn't. Once the season started, it became quite likely that they'd end up waiting until at least June before putting pen to paper. That's because the June draft represents an important point on the timeline for the qualifying-offer rules. Per the express terms of the most recent collective bargaining agreement, draft compensation is available only when a qualified player signs on or before the day immediately preceding the Rule 4 draft. This year's selections begin on June 3rd. MLBTR has confirmed that, unless Kimbrel and Keuchel officially sign (with full league and union approval) on or before 11:59 pm EST on June 2nd, all draft compensation relating to those players will be nullified. With just over three weeks remaining until that vanishing act takes place, it's rather difficult to see a deal materializing in advance of the draft. If teams are still capable of emotional decision making, this is perhaps the time of year when draft choices are likely to be valued most highly, as clubs are tantalizingly close to turning those selections into actual prospects they like. And if the value of the draft-pick compensation is effectively drawn out of the salary the team would otherwise offer, as Anthopoulos suggests and as stands to reason, then it surely makes sense for the player to wait a few more weeks at this point. A surprise is always possible, but it's all but certain now that the reps for the K&K holdout hurlers are already chatting with teams about post-draft signing scenarios. What exactly does that mean? For one thing, the countdown could be on for these accomplished hurlers to finally begin pitching again. In some respects, the scene will shift; teams weighing a signing will also be considering trade-deadline alternatives that will require the sacrifice of young talent (and that may not be available for at least a few more weeks). The wild card here is the players' asking prices; it remains to be seen if they'll hold out for (and receive) significant, multi-year offers. For the teams potentially involved, the situation is clear. The Red Sox will not receive the post-fourth-round comp pick they would have otherwise, which would have landed after the 137th pick that they already hold. And the Astros will miss out on a choice after competitive balance round B wraps up; it'd have been the 79th overall selection. For all the prospective signing teams, they would hang onto the picks they'd otherwise have to punt to sign one of these pitchers . Putting a real price on those picks is a tricky thing to do   here's one recent attempt   because any real-world valuation would include team context (such as other picks and negotiating opportunities) as well as the grades placed on the actual prospects who might be taken. If a deal does formally come together before the draft for one of these players, it'll likely be with the former team. That's how it played out back in 2014, the other time we've seen players turn down qualifying offers and then languish on the open market. Stephen Drew signed in late May , but that was a deal with the incumbent Red Sox, who by that time already knew they'd miss out on compensation with the draft so close. Kendrys Morales waited until early June for draft compensation to clear, then landed with the Twins . Related slideshow: The 2019 MLB season (Provided by imagn)


The Los Angeles Lakers made the biggest splash of the offseason when they agreed to acquire Anthony Davis in a trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, and it is clear they still want to add another star player when free agency begins. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and Zach Lowe reported on Thursday that the Lakers and Pelicans are adding a third team   the Washington Wizards   into the Davis trade, which will allow L.A. to shed the contracts of Mo Wagner, Isaac Bonga and Jemerrio Jones. In addition, Davis has agreed to waive his $4 million trade kicker. That will give the Lakers $32 million in salary cap space, which is enough to add a third max contract player. Video by CBS Sports The Lakers are trading Mo Wagner, Isaac Bonga and Jemerrio Jones to Wizards as part of the Anthony Davis deal with New Orleans, league sources tell @ZachLowe_NBA and me. Deal clears contracts and creates more cap space for free agency.   Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 27, 2019 Anthony Davis is waiving his $4M trade kicker, league sources tell ESPN.   Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 27, 2019 The Lakers will start free agency with $32M in salary cap space. The Lakers have the ability to sign a max player now.   Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 27, 2019 There had been a lot of talk about Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka botching the Davis trade by not having the Pelicans agree to execute it on July 30, which would have given L.A. $32.5 million in salary cap space. This solves that issue and will allow the Lakers to pursue the top free agents on the market. Of course, it has also left the Lakers with a ton of holes to fill. Once the Davis trade is completed, they will have only three players on their roster   Davis, LeBron James and Kyle Kuzma. Even if they are able to convince a star free agent like Kawhi Leonard or Jimmy Butler to join them, they will need to get creative to fill out the rest of their roster. Related slideshow: The top picks in the NBA draft (Provided by imagn)


CONCORD, N.C.   Daniel Hemric was fastest in the first Cup Series practice session for Sunday's Coca-Cola 600. Hemric posted a top speed of 182.791 mph around Charlotte Motor Speedway. He was followed by Chase Elliott (182.340 mph), William Byron (182.211), Kyle Busch (182.168) and Jimmie Johnson (182.008). Alex Bowman was seventh to put all four Hendrick Motorsports cars in the top 10. Austin Dillon in eighth gave Chevrolet six cars in the top 10. Landon Cassill recorded the most laps in the session with 37. He was 32nd on the speed chart. Click here for the speed chart.


Looking to add a new companion to the family? There are dozens of cuddly kittens up for adoption at animal shelters in and around Washington, so you won't have to look far to find the perfect new pal. Hoodline used data from Petfinder to power this roundup of kittens available for adoption near you. Read on to meet some friendly, furry locals. (Details like pet availability, training, vaccinations and other features are based on data provided by Petfinder and may be subject to change; contact the shelter for the latest information.) Timo, domestic shorthair Timo is a handsome male domestic shorthair kitten being cared for at City Dogs Rescue & City Kitties . Timo is ready to make friends   he'll get along great with other cats. He has mastered his house-training etiquette, and he already has all of his shots. Apply to adopt Timo today at Petfinder . Bella, domestic Bella is a female domestic kitten in the care of City Dogs Rescue & City Kitties . Bella is a social butterfly, and she'll get along great with other cats. Her vaccinations are already up to date, and she is house-trained. Bella's current caretakers say: When you first meet sweet Bella, she will probably be shy, but after a few minutes she warms up to new friends. Bella is a fearless explorer and ventures to check out new areas in her current abode. Apply to adopt Bella today at Petfinder . Okra, domestic longhair and American bobtail mix Okra is a winsome female domestic longhair and American bobtail kitten being kept at City Dogs Rescue & City Kitties . She has been vaccinated and is already house-trained. Here's what Okra's friends at City Dogs Rescue & City Kitties think of her: Okra is a bit shy and is coming out of her shell. She loves to play with the tails of other cats since she doesn't have one of her own. Read more about how to adopt Veggie Cats: Okra on Petfinder . Everette, domestic shorthair mix Everette is a charming male domestic shorthair kitten currently housed at Lucky Dog Animal Rescue . His vaccinations are already up to date. Notes on Everette: I would love to be adopted to a home with another furry friend so I have can have a fun playmate. I'm looking for a home with treats, toys, scratch pads and cuddles. Apply to adopt Everette today at Petfinder . Elf, domestic shorthair mix Elf is a charming male domestic shorthair kitten being kept at Lucky Dog Animal Rescue . He has had all of his shots. Here's what Elf's friends at Lucky Dog Animal Rescue think of him: Elf is a very playful little kitten. Apply to adopt Elf today at Petfinder . Ella, domestic shorthair mix Ella is a female domestic shorthair kitten currently residing at Lucky Dog Animal Rescue . Ella is vaccinated. More about Ella: I'm looking for a home with plenty of toys and cuddles. I would love to have a home with another pet friend. Read more about Ella on Petfinder . Elsie, domestic shorthair mix Elsie is a winsome female domestic shorthair kitten in the care of Lucky Dog Animal Rescue . She has been vaccinated. Notes on Elsie: I'm still very young, so I have a lot of kitten energy. I would love to be adopted to a home that has another pet I can play with. Apply to adopt Elsie today at Petfinder . This story was created automatically using local animal shelter data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.


Welcome to Day 11 of Denver Broncos training camp! The Broncos will practice from 9:15 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Tuesday, July 30 at UCHealth Training Center (13655 E Broncos Pkwy, Englewood, CO 80112). Free parking will be available beginning at 7 a.m. and gates to the practice facility will open at 8 a.m. Follow along below for live updates from practice: Tweets from https://twitter.com/TheBroncosWire/lists/denver-broncos To view information about attending practice, click here . To view the team's complete training camp schedule, click here . MORE: CPBL pitcher tried to fool a batter with the weirdest hidden-ball trick Za'Darius Smith, Preston Smith have 'been as advertised' for Packers Day 3 Cowboys Camp: Prescott's deep ball, passing zones impressive Roundup: Kelly McGillis and Top Gun; Fortnite Season 10; Michelle Obama's Advice; DNA Repaired by Lung Cell Tom Brady disobeys Bill Belichick at practice, and suffers the consequences


Ryan Glasgow and Carl Lawson went through their ACL rehab together, and they are both eyeing a similar goal: be ready for the season. Last year it was apparent that the Bengals ' defensive line wasn't getting the job done towards the end of the season. Two big reasons for this was the team losing defensive linemen Carl Lawson and Ryan Glasgow to ACL injuries last season. The two spent their time rehabbing together, which helped motivate each other through the grueling process. "Especially with something like this it's really tough, it's great to have somebody to stick it out with," Lawson told Paul Dehner Jr. of the Athletic . "Glass ( Glasgow ) has been a real blessing. As mentally tough as I am you still need another guy to help you out when you are going through something." A rehab process is anything but ideal. It is such a frustrating process at time, but it is the perfect opportunity for people going through it together to have each others backs. It is also a great chance to get closer to a teammate. "To have someone like Carl to come through the whole process with almost, to bounce ideas off of and go through rehab together during those early mornings in the winter when you don't really want to get up," said Glasgow . "Your knee is sore but you have to come do the work. To have somebody to do that with was really important. "Carl and I were friends before this but off the field knowing each other's personal lives you become closer to that person. You go through the exact same experience. It's kind of like being on a football team except it's that much deeper of an experience. The tough times   like camp brings teams together   going through tough shit brings people together. And it's brought Carl and I closer together." Having these young players get so close is always a good thing. Right now the Bengals have guys like Carlos Dunlap and Geno Atkins leading the group, but both of them are over 30-years-old. It won't be long before Lawson and Glasgow may be relied on by younger players to help acclimate them to the NFL. Them building that friendship off the field now will only make that process easier down the road. It is also easy to see how missing each of these players impacted the Bengals defense last season. Glasgow was looking much improved after a decent rookie season. When he went down, it was obvious that Cincinnati was straining to try and cover his snaps. Lawson was a bit more visible of a loss to more casual fans. He had 8.5 sacks his rookie season, and he was constantly pressuring quarterbacks last year even when the sacks didn't follow. These two returning to the field should really help out a defense that struggled to put consistent pressure on the passer in the second half of the 2018 season. The big question becomes when are they planning to come back? "I am not coming out until I feel pretty much 100 (percent)," Lawson said. "The goal is the first game. I know what it is like to get ready and be ready. I am not really stressing pushing towards camp but if I am ready by camp, hell, yeah, I'll be out there. But the goal is first game… I really do believe I am coming back as a better football player and not as a football player that is catching up. That's just the way I feel about it." Lawson's injury was sustained in Week 8 last year, so his injury was a little more recent than Glasgow's. It makes sense Lawson is okay with taking his time. Realistically, Lawson won't be that far behind if he misses some of training camp. His role should still be fairly similar to pass rushing in more obvious pass rushing situations, especially considering he is coming off such a serious injury. He knows how to rush the passer, it's a matter of him being confident in his body to pull off the moves he is accustomed to using. Glasgow is a little bit more confident in returning earlier, according to Dehner Jr., "Glasgow expects to be ready for the beginning of training camp." His addition back into rotation means the team doesn't have to rely as much on defensive ends kicking inside to help on pass rushing downs. It also means Atkins can take some snaps off during earlier downs if necessary. Glasgow may not be a starter, but he should end up with a decent amount of snaps next season. The possibility of having both of these young players back for Week 1 next season is huge for this new coaching staff. The Bengals defense started off playing pretty well, but fell to the bottom of the NFL pretty quickly. These two coming back should help drag the defense back out of the basement.


NaVorro Bowman's retirement Tuesday signaled the official end of one of the most uniquely special careers in 49ers history. There was perhaps no player better suited than Bowman to step into a role alongside all-time great Patrick Willis, and his rapid ascent from third-round pick to perennial All-Pro is the single-most powerful testament to the excellence he exuded on the field. Bowman was a distinctly talented linebacker who's lack of size in 2010 meant his draft stock had a ceiling it wouldn't have in a modern NFL. A 6-foot-1, 230-pound linebacker who can get downhill against the run, rush the passer and play coverage would certainly get some Round-1 buzz in a more contemporary draft, and it's hard to imagine that off-field concerns and a minor injury history would've pushed him all the way to the No. 91 overall pick where the 49ers scooped him up. San Francisco quickly made use of all of Bowman's talents, utilizing him in a way that allowed him to shine despite playing against a tackling machine in Willis. The two complemented each other perfectly, and Bowman helped dispel some stigmas around undersized linebackers. He was very good in coverage, an effective pass rusher, and a stellar run defender who landed behind only Willis in Pro Football Focus' overall grades for linebackers between 2011 and 2013. And when Willis began to age and his athleticism started to desert him, Bowman was able to slide seamlessly into a role that otherwise would've left a gaping hole in the heart of San Francisco's defense. Two plays in Bowman's career emphasize his importance to the 49ers' championship-caliber defense between 2011 and 2013 and help cement his status as one of the best linebackers to ever put on a 49ers uniform. The first came in the 2013 NFC Championship Game in Atlanta. A sensational comeback by Colin Kaepernick, Frank Gore and the 49ers' offense overshadows some of the phenomenal defense played down the stretch. It was Bowman who sent San Francisco to the Super Bowl though. With the Falcons facing a fourth-and-4 from their own 10, they split receiver Roddy White into the slot where he was matched up against the 49ers' linebacker. White, who had seven catches for 100 yards in the game, ran up to Bowman just beyond the first-down marker, expecting to break inside for an easy first down. Bowman instead attached himself to the receiver's hip and stuck his left arm in front of the pass to knock the ball away. Atlanta got the ball back one more time but never got close to the end zone. While the win was an all-around team effort, Bowman's outstanding play on fourth down all but sealed the victory and sent the 49ers to the Super Bowl for the sixth time in franchise history. There's perhaps no better illustration of Bowman's immense talent than his pick 6 in the final game at Candlestick Park, also against Atlanta. The Falcons scored with 2:09 left to cut a 10-point 49ers' lead to 27-24. Their onside kick slid right to Bowman who somehow let the ball skip by him - an inconceivable miscue from a seemingly flawless player. Instead of laying down as the Falcons marched deep into 49ers territory, Bowman almost singlehandedly sealed the game for San Francisco. He started the play as a pass rusher, but was stymied at the line. The heady linebacker then saw the pass was going to the left side, so he shed his block and sprinted that way, arriving just as cornerback Tramaine Brock wrestled the ball away from receiver Harry Douglas. The ball hung in the air just long enough for Bowman to corral it with one hand and go streaking down the sideline. His dive into the end zone sent the crowd into a frenzy, sent the 49ers to the playoffs, and sent historical Candlestick Park out with one final signature moment. Bowman's career hit a roadblock during the 2014 NFC Championship Game when he tore the ACL and MCL in his left knee during a play at the goal line. Perhaps the most remarkable part of the play was that he was hurt while taking the ball away from wide receiver Jermaine Kearse and holding onto it despite his knee being gruesomely twisted in an awkward direction. It would've been understandable if Bowman was never the same player upon returning two seasons later. Instead, he led the league in tackles while earning his fourth All-Pro selection. From there his decline was rapid. A torn Achilles knocked Bowman out after just four games in 2016, and he never was the same after it. His athleticism declined tremendously in 2017, and he saw his role diminish significantly over five games with San Francisco before being released. His exit from San Francisco wasn't smooth. He was upset with his lack of playing time on a rebuilding defense. The 49ers released him instead of letting him languish on their bench. Bowman was picked up by the Raiders and finished the season in silver and black. His Week 12 interception against Denver was Oakland's first of the season. Bowman didn't play in 2018, and his quick forgiveness of the 49ers despite their tumultuous parting just two seasons ago speaks volumes about the character that made Bowman such a beloved teammate and leader of a tremendous 49ers defense. He wanted to officially retire as a 49er, but the team's full 90-man roster didn't allow them to issue a symbolic one-day contract. The one-day contract may not formally make Bowman a 49er upon his retirement, but his contributions to the team will earn him an eternal place in 49ers history. He managed to shine on a defense full of some of the league's brightest stars, and he stepped up in key moments to put exclamation points on the team's biggest successes over the last decade. Bowman may never make the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and his No. 53 may never be retired by the team. Those who watched him will always have a spot carved out for Bowman among the 49ers' all-time greats. MORE: WATCH: Did Nike just reveal Kevin Durant's free agency destination? Did Nike accidentally reveal that Kevin Durant is staying with the Warriors? Report: Suns, Bulls offering lottery picks for Lonzo Ball Return of NASCAR: Packers planning ways to get 4 OLBs on the field together Pelicans 'Listening' to Anthony Davis Trade Offers Now


Sold in the US in the '70s, '80s, and early '90s, the Mark II/Mark X has become an institution in its native Japan. Toyota is waving goodbye to a nameplate they've had for over fifty years   and there's a good chance you've never heard of it. At the end of this year, Toyota will discontinue their Mark X model, according to their Japanese press site. The Mark X started out in 1968 as the Mark II, with a name change to Mark X in 2004. While the name has changed, the basic principle of the car hasn't. It has always been a luxurious rear wheel drive sedan with good performance for its class. More Toyota News: Next-Gen Toyota 86, Subaru BRZ May Use Toyota Platform Toyota Land Cruiser Will Stick Around In The United States Think of it as something like a Japanese BMW   or a Lexus . In Japan, it's positioned as an alternative to the Toyota Camry aimed at buyers who prefer a rear wheel drive car, with the option of all wheel drive. While this may be seen as the end of an era, Toyota is perhaps more committed to rear wheel drive than ever. Their ever-expanding sports car lineup will soon include three rear wheel drive models. While Americans are likely unfamiliar with the name, they might be familiar with the car itself. That's because, starting in 1972, it was sold here as the Corona. When the body style changed in 1977, so did the name   it became the Cressida, and was subsequently sold here until 1992. Both cars have a dedicated fanbase among fans of nostalgic Japanese cars in the United States. To mark the end of an era, Toyota will sell a limited edition Mark X 250S Final Edition in Japan. The Final Edition will come equipped with 18 inch aluminum wheels, dark chrome plated front bumper trim, and a red and black interior finished in alcantara and leather. The Mark X 250S Final Edition will come in three colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, and Precious Black Pearl. The Final Edition is available in both rear wheel drive and all wheel drive versions.


No automaker has managed to make money manufacturing and selling electric cars yet. In fact, electric-car giant Tesla has been the prime example of what happens when you try to sell a product that's so expensive to manufacture that you have to price it at below-cost to post unit growth. Tesla sold 245,000 cars in 2018 and is on track to sell almost 360,000 in 2019, but has posted losses every single year since its inception. For example, the company lost $1 billion in 2018, and 2019 doesn't look like it will break this trend. After all, Tesla managed to lose $702 million in 2019's first quarter alone. What irks established automakers about this situation isn't Tesla's unit growth. Heck, you can sell as many dollar bills as you want if you charge 75 cents for them. Instead, what ticks off established automakers is that Wall Street is rewarding Tesla with a sky-high multiple -- on sales as well as on non-existent profits -- despite the company's seemingly perpetual annual losses. Investors are doing this for a couple of reasons: Good Automotive Design There's widespread consensus that both Tesla's Model S and Model 3 are more beautiful-looking than almost all competitors' electric cars. In fact, one could argue that the Model S and Model 3 would have sold very well whether they were electric cars or not. Electric Pickup Trucks There's hope that Tesla will soon take its electric technology and "branch out" into pickup trucks, a segment that offers better chances for profit than you'd get from either hatchbacks (i.e., the Model S) or sedans (the Model 3). If Tesla can unseat (or at least rattle) the F-150 from Ford -- the U.S. truck market's No. 1 bestseller -- that would give TSLA a better shot at generating profits. It would also reward Tesla shares with the highest industry-valuation multiple possible. Related video: Ford's rebound just getting started   it's the only auto company Jim Cramer endorses (provided by CNBC) Eu Tu, Elon? In other words, Tesla's valuation rests largely on its ability to make the best-looking cars, coupled with the prospect of eventually competing against the F-150, Ford's most-profitable pickup truck. But surprise, surprise -- those are precisely two areas where Ford is suddenly about to enter the electric-vehicle picture. If Tesla has been treated so far like the Caesar of electric cars, Ford has not come to praise it, but to bury it. (Full disclosure: I'm short TSLA and long F.) Ford is looking to take the glory off of Tesla's electric-car crown in two ways: A Mustang-Inspired Electric Crossover Step No. 1 is to produce a car that simply looks better than what TSLA offers. After all, the best-looking cars can have all sorts of deficiencies and still become objects of desire -- like the Ford Mustang, both when it was first introduced the 1960s and then again with the model's current generation. That's why Ford plans to soon exploit the Mustang's good looks to unseat Tesla from TSLA's leadership position in exterior design. In a few months, Ford plans to unveil a Mustang-inspired crossover vehicle that will go up against Tesla's upcoming Model Y. Both models will arrive in the market approximately at the same time (2020's second half), but there'll be major brand deflation for Tesla if the consensus is that Ford made the better-looking electric vehicle. What will that do to Tesla's multiple? An Electric Ford F-150 Tesla CEO Elon Musk has promised to unveil an electric pickup truck by summer's end -- unsurprising given that the U.S. market saw 2.94 million 2018 truck sales and experts widely view trucks as the industry's most profitable segment. However, Ford currently has a 38% market share in the full-size segment -- the biggest and fattest pickup-truck target of them all. Frankly, Ford can't take a chance that Tesla's pickup truck will be a success. Even if a Tesla electric truck doesn't sell all that much -- let alone make any profit -- Ford can't let TSLA be seen as the industry's future leader of electric trucks. If that happens, the market will decide that it's only a matter of time before Tesla dominates the truck segment totally and rewards TSLA with an even-higher stock multiple. But guess what? Ford won't allow that to happen. Even if TSLA shows off an electric-truck concept vehicle before Ford does, F will likely have an all-electric truck in mass production well before Tesla does. Ford's electric F-150 is already more than halfway into development (which takes between 4-1/2 and five years) and is already undergoing road testing. (You can't come out with a pickup truck that hasn't been rigorously tested and expect people to take a risk on such an important work tool.) Ford also has a secret weapon in this fight -- "factories." It has several factories in multiple states that can produce an all-electric F-150 just as soon as the model becomes ready for production. F also has a superior supply chain and approximately 3,000 dealerships in the United States alone that can sell and service all-electric F-150s as soon as they ship. By contrast, Tesla needs to overcome significant hurdles to enter the truck business, such as: Developing a Test Vehicle. This includes significant "torture-testing" of a model, which will likely involve driving hundreds of prototype trucks millions of miles in the harshest conditions (including towing) for about 24 months. There are no signs that Tesla has even started this process. Raising Cash. Tesla needs to raise the money to build a pickup-truck factory. How much? Probably at least $1.5 billion and more likely $2 billion. Creating a Factory. Tesla also needs to actually build said factory. It can't put this factory in China because of a 25% U.S. tariff on non-NAFTA pickup trucks. That means Tesla has to most likely build a fully permitted factory in America -- something that will take probably two years even under the best of assumptions. The Bottom Line Even if it does all of the above, can Tesla actually make a profit selling pickup trucks? How many would it need to sell -- and at what price and gross margin -- to do so? Yes, Tesla will almost certainly unveil a concept pickup truck with great fanfare a few short months from now. But actually producing one and making a profit on it is likely to be several years away. If the stars align for Tesla, I think 2022 might be a possible target year for mass production. By contrast, Ford is likely to unveil a near-production-ready all-electric F-150 some time in 2020 and possibly put the model into production in 2021's fourth quarter. And remember, Ford already has both the money and the factories to do so, while consumers will know that an electric F-150 will be fully tested and can be serviced at approximately 3,000 U.S. Ford dealerships. From towing to hauling to going off-road, which brand are truck buyers going to trust more? What this means for investors over the next two years is that Tesla's price multiple is likely to deflate, whereas Ford has a good opportunity to pick up the electric glory from Tesla.


Since the start of the 2017 season, only three defensive backs have at least 190 tackles and five interceptions: Reshad Jones, Jordan Poyer and John Johnson. Their numbers rival any other safety's in the NFL, yet of the three, only Jones has made the Pro Bowl in the last two years. Johnson, in particular, was a Pro Bowl snub last season after putting together a tremendous campaign in L.A. He had 119 tackles, four interceptions and 11 passes defensed, forcing a fumble and hitting the quarterback twice. He doesn't play along the line of scrimmage much so his four career tackles for loss are nothing to get excited about, but there's no doubt Johnson is one of the best safeties in football. He has yet to crack the Pro Bowl, but he's hoping to change that in 2019. "I think I deserve it; that's the only problem," Johnson told Vincent Bonsignore of The Athletic . "If I thought I was reaching for it, that would be one thing. But I'm right there, so I really want to accomplish it." The NFL is stocked with talented safeties, which makes it that much tougher for Johnson to make the Pro Bowl. It's even more difficult to land an All-Pro selection, which Johnson also hopes to accomplish. On the bright side, the litany of top-tier safeties bodes well for Johnson's chances of breaking the bank in a few years. Earl Thomas, Lamarcus Joyner, Tyrann Mathieu and Landon Collins all cashed in this offseason, and if the safety market continues to rise, Johnson could be next in line. "The way the market is going, safeties got paid this year," Johnson said. "If they can repeat that next year, by the time it gets to me, it might be crazy. But my mindset is to get better every season and just keep building." Nothing will be handed to Johnson, and he fully understands that. He knows he has to work to earn that Pro Bowl selection and massive contract extension, and both should come if he continues to improve as he did in 2018. The future certainly looks bright for Johnson in Los Angeles. MORE: This photo of Kyler Murray led to more speculation about his height Magic Johnson confirms rumor that Lakers want to sign Kyrie Irving Kyle Rudolph could be a late offseason acquisition Cowboys need Report: Patriots engaged in trade talks for TE Kyle Rudolph VIDEO: Magic Johnson Calls Out Rob Pelinka for Backstabbing on First Take


The Patriots broke up the set of Hollisters, but the other has another NFL job. According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Titans have signed wide receiver Cody Hollister. He spent last year on the non-football injury list after back surgery, and 2017 on the practice squad for the Patriots. The former Arkansas wide receiver is the twin brother of tight end Jacob Hollister , whom the Patriots traded to the Seahawks.


Bobby Labonte has enjoyed a stellar racing career in NASCAR, claiming one championship each in what are now referred to as the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series. To celebrate his 55th birthday, we provide a look at Labonte's career through the years. Bobby Labonte's driving career was often part of a family affair. Brother Terry Labonte (left), eight years his elder, led the way for his generation. Their father, Bob Labonte (center), was a guiding force as a team owner and sometimes crew chief. Bobby Labonte enjoyed his first major successes behind the wheel of the family-owned team's No. 44. Bobby took Labonte Motorsports to the Xfinity Series championship in 1991, and the team enjoyed another title with driver David Green in '94. Team owner Bill Davis tapped Labonte for his first full-time ride in NASCAR's top division in 1993, driving the No. 22 Maxwell House Ford. Labonte spent two seasons driving for Davis' operation and wound up just behind Jeff Gordon in the '93 race for Rookie of the Year. After his tenure with Davis, Labonte landed with Joe Gibbs Racing, embarking on the most successful partnership of his career. Labonte scored all 21 of his Monster Energy Series wins driving for Gibbs from 1995-2005. Primary backing came from Interstate Batteries, and the team ran a commemorative paint scheme in 1996 to mark Gibbs' induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Bobby Labonte races ahead of his brother, Terry, during the 1996 season finale at Atlanta Motor Speedway. The 1996 season-ender wound up being a special one for the Labonte brothers. Bobby won the 500-mile race from the pole position, and Terry came home fifth to clinch his second series championship. The two brothers savored another special moment together in qualifying for the 1998 Daytona 500. Bobby edged out Terry for the pole position and the two shared the front row. Bobby Labonte ended up as the runner-up to Dale Earnhardt in Earnhardt's only Daytona 500 win. Labonte scored a pair of signature victories in the 2000 season, kissing the Brickyard 400 trophy at Indianapolis Motor Speedway and then adding a Southern 500 triumph four weeks later. The 2000 season provided a crowning moment for Labonte as he won the Monster Energy Series championship. He collected four wins and stayed on top of the points standings for all but three weeks during his championship run. Labonte clinched the title at Homestead-Miami Speedway with one event left in the season, earning a champagne shower from Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Tony Stewart, who won the race. No track served as friendlier territory throughout Labonte's career than Atlanta Motor Speedway. Labonte landed six of his 21 career wins at the Georgia track and added two poles to his resume there. Labonte excelled at many of the sport's faster tracks, but also prevailed in 2002 at Martinsville Speedway for his only big-league short-track win. Labonte posted his final Cup win in the 2003 season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway. He took advantage when leader Bill Elliott slowed with a flat tire on the final lap. 'I just absolutely couldn't believe it,' said Labonte, who won the final race under the Winston banner. Labonte also found success in other forms of motorsports, winning three times in the former International Race of Champions (IROC) Series. Labonte scored two of those victories (Talladega, Indianapolis) in 2001 on his way to the series championship. Labonte also ventured out for spot duty in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, making 10 career starts. That brief tenure included one victory at Martinsville Speedway, edging out Ricky Craven. Labonte also branched into sports-car racing, driving 10 times in IMSA competition. That stretch included six starts at Daytona International Speedway, including this 2007 effort in the Rolex 24. Labonte scored his last NASCAR Xfinity Series win in 2007, driving for team owner Kevin Harvick. Labonte led just two laps that day at Talladega Superspeedway, taking the lead for a final time on the last lap. After Labonte's tenure with Joe Gibbs Racing ended, he landed in Richard Petty's No. 43 for the 2006 season. Here, he talks with his crew during the 2007 event at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Labonte worked closely with (from left) Richard Petty, vice president Robbie Loomis, and his brother and occasional teammate Terry. His term there lasted three seasons, producing just eight top-10 finishes. Labonte was on the move again for 2009, taking a ride with Hall of Fame Racing's No. 96 operation. Labonte managed just one top-five result in their lone year together; the operation shuttered after the season. Labonte managed to keep his full-season goals -- and his consecutive starts streak -- intact despite competing for four different teams in 2010. Among those was TRG Motorsports' No. 71 ride, which fielded Labonte in 19 of the 36 races that year. Labonte found more steady work in 2011, joining JTG Daugherty Racing's No. 47 operation. The two sides hit it off in their first event together, contending for the win before snagging a fourth-place finish in the Daytona 500. Labonte raced for JTG Daugherty for three seasons, dialing back to part-time duty in the latter part of the 2013 campaign. He also missed three races that summer after breaking three ribs in a bicycle accident. Labonte's final three seasons (2014-16) in NASCAR's top division were contested primarily on restrictor-plate tracks. His final starts came in Go Fas Racing's No. 32. Labonte's career in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series may have wound to a close, but he's stayed involved in the sport with a second career in broadcasting, races overseas and more chapters to unfold from behind the wheel.


A father and son were "lucky" to make it out of their house alive, officials said, after an explosion leveled the backside of the structure. Crews were sifting through the wreckage of the Austell home, Sunday night. According to Cobb County fire officials, a neighbor called 911 around 9 p.m. after hearing the explosion. When crews got to the scene, they saw the entire back of the home burning, with smoke and flames visible. Pictures from the scene show what's left of the house off Hasty Lane - the debris still smoldering. Officials confirm the entire backside of the home collapsed. According to officials, two people - a father and son - made it out of the home before crews arrived, but not without severe burns. Officials said the child is between 6 and 7 years old. Both were taken to Cobb Hospital for treatment. "We're just lucky that the two were able to go to the hospital," said Denell Boyd with the Cobb County Fire Department. 11Alive's Elwyn Lopez spoke to one resident of the neighborhood on the scene who said she remembers hearing a loud thump. "Like some kind of slam, but it also vibrated the entire house," she described. "Everything shook." Another user on Twitter reported feeling the vibrations up to a quarter-mile away. "Felt like a plane crash," they reported. 11Alive's crew at the scene reported one road leading up to the home was blocked off, but there were no other evacuations. Investigators were on the scene working to determine the source and cause of the explosion. Crew members from Austell Gas System were on scene, as well, in order to shut off gas to the area while the investigation is underway. 11Alive will update this story as information develops.


As the middle child of three growing up, I swore I'd never have three kids. I never wanted a kid of mine to have that dreaded middle child syndrome where they feel they're the odd one out. I complained how I was ignored, neglected and it was never my "turn." I wasn't the mature, older one doing something cool for the first time, or the cute, funny little one. Whine, whine, whine. As I've gotten older and had kids of my own (two), I've realized it's actually a really awesome thing to be the monkey in the middle of the birth order, especially as an adult. Here's why: 1. You're not a spoiled brat It's sort of impossible to spoil the middle kid. They aren't the first baby that comes along and forever alters life as mom and dad once knew it, nor are they the "last little baby," destined to be petted and coddled. Instead, the middle is the recipient of hand-me downs, parenting honed to a sharper point after kid No. 1 and a childhood of second places. This is a good thing. After all, spoiled kids can turn into spoiled adults who continue to act entitled wherever they go. 2. Sharing is not an issue for the middle kid With a sibling on either side, the middle kid is pretty much never alone, so they learn to take turns and understand nothing is really theirs. They often share a bedroom with another sibling (I put in 17 years with my big sis!), not to mention the back seat of the station wagon and, of course, outings with mom and dad. This skill may not be evident in a preschooler, but it'll come in handy later on, like freshman year of college when the pampered react in confusion and then horror upon realizing they'll be sharing that bunker-like dorm room with another student. Middle kids rock that birth order thing like a boss. 3. Strong negotiation skills Early on you learn to be a mediator and a negotiator among your siblings. You develop a talent for reading situations and tuning in to others' needs and emotions. After all, no one's listening to a whiny middle kid. 4. Independent streak While your parents were busy gushing over the first-born's latest trophies or holding the hand of the baby, you were doing your own thing. OK, no one's paying attention to me, fine, I'm going to make up my own games. 5. Middle kids know who they are A middle kid might initially feel unsure of their place in the family, because there's no automatic superlative attached to them. They're not first and therefore often not considered the smartest, fastest, tallest. And they're not last born, so they're not the youngest, smallest or neediest. Instead, a middle kid learns to differentiate from siblings and establish an identity of their own to stand out from the pack. 6. BFF to all your siblings While sibling rivalry can be fierce growing up, the middle kid is often closer in age to their other siblings, which can translate into a closer relationship to each. It helps that the middle child also knows what it feels like to be both the older sibling to someone and the younger sibling. So, basically middle kids are awesome because they grow into well-rounded adults who rocked that birth order thing like a boss.