General Sports 24 Hours

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 2:35 PM ET

WNBA

The WNBA's increased scrutiny is a sign of its burgeoning success, according to some of the league's most celebrated players. This heightened attention, they believe, stems directly from the growth and achievements within the women's game. In a thrilling matchup, Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers delivered dazzling 29-point performances, but it was Clark's Indiana Fever who ultimately triumphed over Bueckers' short-handed Chicago Sky with a final score of 98-87. Diana Taurasi expressed her aspirations to join the Phoenix Mercury's ownership group, a move that could occur within the next year or two, as her number 3 jersey is set to be retired by the team. For fantasy players, insights into potential weekend streaming picks to boost playoff runs are available, focusing on key players to target after the opening weekend of WNBA action. Angel Reese's exceptional rebounding prowess, despite not being the tallest or most athletic player, is being examined for the secrets behind her league-leading pace.

College Football & NFL

College football is undergoing significant changes in its game flow for the 2026 season, with adjustments to sequencing, fourth-down strategies, and a general trend towards slower games with fewer points, according to coaches. In terms of player news, Tennessee starting safety Edrees Farooq will miss the entire 2026 season due to a torn patellar tendon in his right knee, an injury sustained during practice. Meanwhile, Alabama running back AK Dear is projected to be sidelined for approximately six weeks following an ankle injury incurred during a preseason scrimmage. Training camps across the NFL are in full swing, with reporters providing the latest news, intel, and insights on all 32 teams. Quarterback analysis is also a hot topic, with rankings of top QBs by specific skills like arm strength, pocket presence, and improvisation, featuring discussions on players such as Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, and Caleb Williams. Lamar Jackson is reportedly adapting to the Ravens' new offense, with new offensive coordinator Declan Doyle at the helm, offering Jackson an opportunity to embrace a new offensive vision.

Golf

Scottie Scheffler is in dominant form at the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis, tying the course record with a 9-under 61 in the second round. This remarkable performance has given him a three-stroke lead heading into the weekend. Highlights from the second round at TPC Southwind showcase Scheffler's charge and other key moments from the tournament.

Darts

Jonny Clayton has secured his first New Zealand Darts Masters title, defeating fellow Welshman Gerwyn Price 8-4 in a decisive final.

Athletics

At the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, Ireland's Kate O'Connor holds the lead in the heptathlon with only the 800m race remaining, though Katarina Johnson-Thompson is out of contention. Johnson-Thompson expressed "mixed emotions" after the first day of the heptathlon, citing injuries as a factor in her struggles. In the women's 800m final, Keely Hodgkinson secured a silver medal, finishing behind Switzerland's Audrey Werro, who denied Hodgkinson a third consecutive European title. Hodgkinson, however, remains proud of her ability to "continue to fight" despite the loss. Ireland's Kate O'Connor also expressed "mixed emotions" after day one of the women's heptathlon at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham.

Other Sports

The 2026 Little League World Series schedule and coverage details are now available. In rugby, former Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones is expected to join the Ospreys' board before the 2026-27 season. The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has stated that the financial realities do not support funding four professional teams beyond 2028, indicating a move towards a three-team plan. Glentoran manager Declan Devine has emphasized the need to "put silverware in the cabinet this year," following a trophy-less previous season. In cricket, the focus is on young talent, with discussions about Rocky Flintoff's potential fast-tracking to international cricket. Bangladesh is on the cusp of a historic first Test victory in Australia, with spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz taking the crucial wicket of Steve Smith on day three in Darwin. The Hundred cricket tournament is experiencing a peculiar summer, with BBC Sport analyzing the drop in attendances compared to 2025, particularly in the tournament's first year under new private ownership. The cycling world mourns the tragic death of 19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling, who died in an accident during the Volta a Portugal. Tarling's father has shared his heartbreak and gratitude for the messages of support received. Castleford Tigers managed to overcome coaching issues to secure a victory over Hull FC, marking only their third away win in Super League this season. In the NFL, Super Bowl winner Nazeeh Johnson claims that fertility medication led to his positive test for a banned substance, resulting in his suspension.

Fantasy Sports

Fantasy football enthusiasts can find Matt Bowen's top draft targets for the upcoming season, ranging from early-round selections to late-round gambles. For fantasy baseball, advice is available for setting Saturday's MLB lineups, including recommendations to get Seymour, Wesneski into your lineup.

MMA

UFC 330 is set to feature two championship bouts, with previews and picks available, including an analysis of Machado Garry as a significant threat to Islam Makhachev.

Hall of Fame

The 2026 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame class includes several influential figures, such as the 1996 U.S. Olympic team, Elena Delle Donne, Chamique Holdsclaw, and Candace Parker, all recognized for their contributions to advancing the sport. Legendary coach Mike D'Antoni reflected on his career during Hall of Fame weekend, discussing his "seven seconds or less" offensive philosophy, his time at Madison Square Garden, and his tenure with the Lakers.

Baseball

An in-season update to ESPN's MLB Rank has been released, featuring the top 50 players in baseball as assessed by ESPN MLB experts, providing a snapshot of top performances as the 2026 regular season progresses.