No. 1 Kansas, Michigan State center stage at Champions Classic

The Independent relies on reader support to cover important stories on topics like reproductive rights, climate change, and Big Tech, providing unbiased reporting accessible to all. UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett addressed criticism for not releasing a chokehold during a gym fight, explaining that both fighters agreed to continue until someone was unconscious. The feud stemmed from Pimblett defending his gym mates against bullying, with both fighters eventually shaking hands and moving on. Full Article

Ramona Shelburne, a senior writer for ESPN.com with seven years at the Los Angeles Daily News, reports on a shocking NBA trade between the Lakers and Mavericks involving Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis. The trade, orchestrated by Mavericks GM Nico Harrison and Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, was kept highly secretive to avoid external influences, with even the Utah Jazz unaware of the deal until shortly before it was finalized. The unexpected move sparked protests in...

In a critical moment in US history, The Independent relies on donations to support reporters covering a range of important issues from reproductive rights to climate change. They prioritize providing quality journalism accessible to all Americans, regardless of political affiliation, without paywalls. Your support allows them to continue sending journalists to cover stories on the ground. In rugby news, England's Tommy Freeman expresses confidence in the team's ability to contain France's star player, Antoine Dupont,...

A federal investigation into a gambling ring has revealed unusual wagering activity on three men's college basketball programs, including North Carolina A&T, Mississippi Valley State, and Eastern Michigan. The ring also placed large wagers on prop bets involving former NBA player Jontay Porter and veteran guard Terry Rozier, with Porter admitting to manipulating his performance for gambling purposes. Five individuals have been charged with conspiring with Porter, while Rozier has not been accused of wrongdoing....

Ja Morant, Jaylen Wells, and their Memphis Grizzlies teammates huddled in prayer after a fan collapsed in the stands prior to their game against the San Antonio Spurs. Emergency medical responders administered CPR to the fan at courtside, leading to a 50-minute delay in the tipoff. The fan was eventually taken off the court on a stretcher, and the game resumed with the players returning to the court to play. Full Article

World Cup winner Jenni Hermoso is confronting former Spanish football federation boss Luis Rubiales in court over an alleged non-consensual kiss after Spain's victory at the 2023 Women's World Cup final. The trial could lead to Rubiales facing up to four years in prison if found guilty. The incident sparked outrage and protests, with Hermoso and prosecutors seeking a prison sentence and damages, while Rubiales maintains the kiss was mutual. Full Article