General Sports 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

World Cup and Soccer Buzz

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final is set with two teams still vying for the championship. Experts are offering their best bets for the final, with Spain and Argentina among the contenders. Championship rings will be awarded to the World Cup winners in addition to the traditional trophy and gold medals. Meanwhile, J.J. Watt called out Real Salt Lake for their perceived failures.

Golf and Tennis Updates

Robert Mac Intyre is staying in contention at the Open Championship, crediting patience for his second-round 69 stays in touch with the leaders. Rory McIlroy also made the cut after a 3-under 67 in the second round, moving to 1-under par overall as he seeks his second Claret Jug. Jackson Suber, making his European debut, surprisingly leads after the first round at Royal Birkdale.

College Football and Coaching News

The college football landscape faces lingering questions for top teams, with new coaches and unproven players posing potential challenges. North Carolina's football program is showing significant improvement, according to coach Bill Belichick, who feels the team is "way ahead" of the previous year. Indiana has secured its highest-rated recruit ever in five-star receiver Monshun Sales, who committed to the Hoosiers. ESPN's rankings of the top 25 college football recruits include promising underclassmen alongside rising seniors.

Basketball and WNBA Insights

NBA commissioner Adam Silver believes the ongoing discussion surrounding Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is "not largely about officiating" believes the debate around the treatment. In the WNBA, A'ja Wilson, Brittney Griner, and Breanna Stewart are recognized among the league's top rim protectors. Athletes like Jalen Brunson and A'ja Wilson were among the winners at the 2026 ESPYS athletes won at the 2026 ESPYS.

Rugby and International Competition

Wales is preparing to face South Africa, a nation known for its consistent production of international-class players, and the team is looking to defy the odds. Ben Thomas and Max Llewellyn will again partner in the midfield as Wales concludes their season in South Africa. Rugby union is experiencing a surge in popularity in Argentina, according to Pumas head coach Felipe Contepomi. Scotland's Gregor Townsend is unconcerned by the prospect of another high-scoring match against Fiji, as long as his team secures the victory.

Cricket and Other Sports News

The World Cricketers' Association has expressed concern regarding the revised format of the men's 50-over World Cup is "concerned" by the changes. Liam Dawson and Tom Banton will be released from England's ODI squad to participate in the T20 Finals Day. Familiar faces are set to return for the T20 Blast Finals Day, with Northants Steelbacks, Somerset, Hampshire Hawks, and Notts Outlaws competing. Sir Chris Hoy anticipates the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will be a "massive success" despite a scaled-down format. Olympic gold medallist Rhys McClenaghan is a "work in progress" as he prepares for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, focusing on perfecting a new routine. Two-time Paralympian Ali Smith is aiming for a Commonwealth Games comeback after experiencing miscarriages challenges of returning to action.

Other Notable Sports Stories

Oklahoma City Spark star Maya Brady embodies a winning mentality within the Brady family all about winning. Cooper Flagg's latest rookie card is generating significant interest, with at least one collector believing it could fetch $5 million. Tom Dundon's decision to include his family on the Stanley Cup has been criticized for devaluing the trophy. British athletes Josh Kerr and Keely Hodgkinson are headlining the Diamond League meeting in London. The All-Ireland hurling final is expected to be decided by key battles in the midfield. UFC is anticipating several exciting matchups in the latter half of the year, including Van vs. Kape and Topuria vs. Pimblett fights we. The Premier Lacrosse League and Women's Professional Lacrosse League are gearing up for Week 9 action. MLB bettors are looking at potential prop bets for the second half of the season, with the Brewers considered contenders to win it all. LeBron James is expected to be present at Fanatics Fest as New York hosts a major week of sports events, including the ESPYS and the World Cup final. Illinois athletic director Josh Whitman has received a contract extension and a raise through 2036.