Being a sports fan isn't for the weak — especially now that we've reached Bravo-level drama. On the one hand, the Disney-YouTube TV blackout has people scrambling to figure out how they'll watch the upcoming matchups on ESPN. On the other hand, the NFL trades this week have people in literal tears — no one is safe from the emotional damage, not even the children. And if you've ever wondered how the traded athletes feel? These players are spilling the tea.
Thankfully, there are some bright spots — well, at least for Dodgers fans who got to enjoy an epic parade. Lastly, I'll leave you with Giannis Antetokounmpo, who revealed how he actually got that mysterious black eye. Spoiler: It's a real hero's story. Now, let's get to the rest of the sports headlines…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
Let's Discuss
A Season Built for Breakouts — and Believers
What's going on: Women's college basketball is officially underway — and with Paige Bueckers shining in the WNBA and USC star JuJu Watkins out for the season, the race for this year's breakout star is wide open. Here's who to keep an eye on: Look out for UCLA's Lauren Betts (not hard, at nearly 6'7"); the Big Ten defense player of the year is on track to become the WNBA's No. 1 draft pick (for a reason). LSU's Flau'Jae Johnson — a national champ, rapper, and America's Got Talent alum — brings the energy every time she hits the court. UConn's Azzi Fudd is finally back and healthy — watch out for her three-pointers. And sophomore Sarah Strong is out to prove UConn can deliver on a second championship win.
Our take: One player doesn't make a season — just ask USC. But this year's breakout stars could redefine a program, a player's career, and even the WNBA's future. Just look at Iowa: Nearly two years after Caitlin Clark left, the Hawkeyes are still selling out arenas with enthusiasm that rivals college football. That's the kind of ripple effect waiting for whoever seizes this moment. Now, with 18 weeks before Selection Sunday, the door's wide open, the talent runs deep, and the storylines are stacked.
The NFL season has been full of surprises — which teams are standing out?
Halfway through the NFL season and no one expected the Indianapolis Colts to be atop the AFC. Now, with the trade for cornerback Sauce Gardner, it looks like the Colts are going all in on this year's team. Still, keep your eye on the Kansas City Chiefs. While they're eighth in the AFC and wouldn't make the playoffs if the season ended today, the Chiefs still have the highest chance to win the Super Bowl at 11.1%, according to ESPN analytics. In the NFC, things have gone mostly as expected, with the Seattle Seahawks looking even more dominant than people predicted. You have to remember, anyone can win on any given Sunday in the NFL.
Put Us in, Coach
This week on our sports and culture show, Well Played:
David and Victoria Beckham scored some new titles — all it took was charity and a few alleged expletive-filled emails.
Even the GOAT of college football needs some coaching now and then — just ask his wife. Relatable.
The unlikeliest duo shared a suite at the Patriots game, and we're begging for a mic'd up edition.
Alessandra, senior commerce writer here. When it comes to working out, getting myself to the gym is half the battle. My motivational hack? A chic, high-quality gym bag that holds everything I need without looking like it belongs in a locker. This duffel from Calpak is cute enough to bring to the office and roomy enough to fit up to three pairs of shoes, my workout clothes, water bottle, blender bottle, and all of my shower essentials. The separate shoe compartment helps keep dirt away from my intimates and workout snacks (a must). Plus, the adjustable crossbody strap makes it easy and comfortable to tote around all day. Psst…we found an under-$40 version with just as much pizazz.
Tell Us
Which tennis ace cofounded a corn-free popcorn snack company?
Skimm'd by Mallory Simon and Maria del Carmen Corpus. Fact-checked by Jordan Mamone.
Photos: Jason Miller, Bryan M. Bennett, Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire, Pablo Cuadra/WireImage, Scott Taetsch, Emilee Chinn/Athlos/Getty Images) and Cooper Neill via Getty Images | Design: theSkimm
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