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Week 4 in the CFL

CFL Editor
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Week 4 in the CFL

Stats and storylines heading into this week’s action

GO LONG!

  • Collective QB rating at this point of the season: 109.4 vs. 97.4 in 2025
  • QB rating by depth:
    • 0-4 yards (including backfield) | 92
    • 5-9 yards | 102
    • 10-14 yards | 105
    • 15-19 yards | 147
    • 20-29 yards | 152
    • 30+ | 108
  • Average pass depth in 2025: 10.1 yards. In 2026 thus far: 11.4 – a 13 per cent increase and the highest ever recorded.
  • 50 per cent have recorded a 300-yard+ game

QUICK SLANTS

LEAGUE-WIDE

  • Average margin of victory: 7.4 points
  • 7.6 drives have reached the red zone – an increase of 33 per cent over 2025
  • Two-and-outs: 27 per cent – an all-time low
  • Seven of the Top-10 receivers are Canadian
  • Punts are being returned an average of 12.5 yards – the highest in league history – due in part to punts going an average of 48.5 yards, representing an increased challenge for cover teams.
  • In the red zone, QBs have completed 65.1 per cent of passes with 24 TDs.
  • QBs have a 3.08:1 TD to INT ratio – the highest ever.

EDM (2-0) at WPG (1-1)

  • Edmonton last started 3-0 in 2017, when they began 7-0.
  • Edmonton has a league-best 161.5 rushing yards per game, while Winnipeg has allowed the most 171 per game.
  • Edmonton owns the best net defence, allowing 389 yards per game.
  • Cody Fajardo has 99 TD passes and 49 rushing majors; with one more of each, he would become the ninth QB to reach 100 and 50. He is a career 4-9 against Winnipeg.
  • Last week, Justin Rankin notched his second career back-to-back games with 100-yard+ each. He is averaging 9.1 yards per carry, while adding 10 receptions for 145 yards.
  • Winnipeg has won the teams’ last eight matchups at Princess Auto Stadium, where the Elks last won on November 3, 2018.
  • Since 2018, Winnipeg is 16-3 off a bye.
  • Since 2019, the Bombers have lost two consecutive home games once.
  • Zach Collaros has 15 career wins as a starter against the Elks – the most of any opponent.
  • For his career, Brady Oliveria needs three catches for 200 and 95 receiving yards for 2,000.
  • Tommy Nield is coming off his first 100-yard+ game (111).
  • Tim White needs eight catches for 400 in his career.
  • Jake Ceresna has 49 career sacks.

TOR (1-1) at SSK (2-0)

  • Toronto has allowed the fewest rushing yards per game (48.0) and the second-lowest yards per rush (3.7), while forcing the most turnovers (8).
  • Chad Kelly’s 869 passing yards through two games are the most in team history, surpassing Ricky Ray’s 833 in 2017. Four players in league history have passed for 400-yards+ in three straight games; none were Argonauts. Kelly is a career 3-0 against Saskatchewan and 21-6 overall.
  • For the second week in a row, Kevin Mital set a new career-high in receiving yards. He is tied for the league lead with four big plays.
  • 2025 first-round pick Jeremiah Ojo recorded his first sack last week.
  • Toronto is first in net offence (501) and Saskatchewan is second (471.5).
  • In each of the past two seasons, Saskatchewan has started 4-0.
  • The Roughriders lead the league in time of possession (31:44).
  • The Riders have allowed one passing touchdown.
  • Trevor Harris has completed 73.6 per cent of his passes for 766 yards and six TDs. He has not thrown an interception in his past 189 attempts.
  • Kian Schaffer-Baker has 19 catches for 295 yards and a pair of TDs through two games.
  • Jameer Thurman needs five defensive tackles for 550 in his career.

CGY (0-2) at BC (0-2)

  • The game will be the first-ever in Kelowna.
  • The Stampeders last started 0-3 in 2002.
  • Calgary has averaged 150 rushing yards per game; BC Lions have allowed an average of 70 rushing yards.
  • Vernon Adams Jr. is a career 1-3 against BC.
  • Dedrick Mills has rushed for 100-yards+ in each game this season
  • Last season, BC swept the teams’ two-game series. The Lions have won three straight home games against the Stampeders and eight of the teams’ past 11 matchups overall.
  • The Lions last started 0-3 in 2019.
  • Nathan Rourke is 2-0 in head-to-head matchups against Adams; he is 4-0 against Calgary.
  • In his CFL debut, 2026 draft pick Nick Cenacle recorded nine catches, 120 yards and two TDs.

OTT (0-2) at MTL (2-1)

  • Ottawa has lost the teams’ past 11 matchups, dating back to October 10, 2022.
  • Nyles Morgan recorded his 7th career game with double-digit tackles last week. He needs six for 400 in his career.
  • Last week, Ayden Eberhardt notched his first 100+ yard game with Ottawa (129). He has led Ottawa in receiving in both games this season.
  • Kalil Pimpleton leads the league with 432 combined yards, including 223 from kickoff returns.
  • Brett Lauther has gone 7-for-7 on field goal attempts to start his time with Ottawa.
  • The Alouettes have gone two-and-out on a league-low 10 per cent of possessions.
  • Davis Alexander has not thrown an interception in his last 224 attempts. He has eclipsed 300-yards+ in each game this season.
  • Through three games, Tyson Philpot is averaging eight catches, one touchdown and 129.7 receiving yards.
  • Geoffrey Cantin-Arku is tied for the league lead with 18 defensive tackles.
  • Last week, Travis Theis had a career-high 91 yards, while adding 47 receiving yards.
  • José Maltos Díaz has made a team-record 25 field goals in a row, including 11-for-11 this season.

2026 NBA Draft Notes – First Round

NBA Editor
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2026 NBA Draft Notes – First Round

FIRST ROUND

• The Washington Wizards made the first pick in the NBA Draft for the third time in the common draft era (since 1966), selecting BYU forward AJ Dybantsa. They previously selected Kwame Brown (2001) and John Wall (2010) with the first overall pick.

• Washington entered the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery with a 14.0% chance of receiving the No. 1 overall pick, tied for the best odds with the Brooklyn Nets and the Indiana Pacers. The Wizards became the first team since the flattened odds were introduced in 2019 to finish with the NBA’s worst record and receive the No. 1 pick.

• Dybantsa became BYU’s first No. 1 overall pick. The previous highest-drafted player from BYU was Shawn Bradley at No. 2 in 1993.

• Dybantsa scored 894 points in 2025-26, the third most by a freshman in a season in NCAA Division I history. He was a consensus All-America First Team selection and a finalist for the Naismith and Wooden National Player of the Year awards.

• The Utah Jazz made the second pick in the NBA Draft for the second time, selecting Kansas guard Darryn Peterson. The Jazz selected Darrell Griffith with the No. 2 pick in 1980.

• Peterson averaged 20.2 points per game as a freshman in 2025-26, breaking the Kansas freshman scor­ing record previously held by former No. 1 overall pick Andrew Wiggins.

• The Memphis Grizzlies made the third pick in the NBA Draft for the second time, selecting Duke forward Cameron Boozer. The Grizzlies selected Shareef Abdur‑Rahim with the No. 3 pick in 1996 ahead of their second season as an expansion team.

• Boozer, the consensus National Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year, became the first freshman or sophomore to average at least 20.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists in a season since Larry Bird (1976-77).

• Boozer is the son of two-time NBA All-Star and 2001 Duke national champion Carlos Boozer.

• The Chicago Bulls made the fourth pick in the NBA Draft for the sixth time, selecting North Carolina forward Caleb Wilson. With the No. 4 pick, the Bulls selected Tom Boerwinkle in 1968, Kelvin Ransey in 1980, Marcus Fizer in 2000, Eddy Curry in 2001 and Patrick Williams in 2020.

• Wilson became North Carolina’s highest draft pick since Marvin Williams was selected with the No. 2 pick in the 2005 NBA Draft.

• Wilson is the second freshman to lead North Carolina in scoring (19.8 ppg), rebounding (9.4 rpg) and steals (1.4 spg), joining Tyler Hansbrough (2005-06).

• The LA Clippers made the fifth pick in the NBA Draft for the first time, selecting Illinois guard Keaton Wagler. It is their first top-five selection since 2009, when they drafted Blake Griffin No. 1 overall.

• Wagler became Illinois’ third top-10 pick in the common draft era, joining Kendall Gill (No. 5 in 1990) and Deron Williams (No. 3 in 2005).

• Wagler was rated as the No. 261 overall prospect in 247Sports’ composite rankings in the 2025 recruiting class.

• Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr., who was selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the sixth pick, became the school’s highest-drafted player since Felton Spencer was selected sixth overall in the 1990 NBA Draft.

• Brown equaled Louisville single-game records with 45 points (tying Wes Unseld) and 10 three-pointers (matching Reyne Smith) against NC State on Feb. 9, 2026.

• Brown is the first top 10 pick from Louisville since 1996 (Samaki Walker, No. 9) and the school’s first first-round pick since Donovan Mitchell in 2017.

• The Sacramento Kings made the seventh pick in the NBA Draft for the ninth time, selecting Arkansas guard Darius Acuff Jr. With the No. 7 pick, the Kings selected Ron Behagen in 1973, Steve Johnson in 1981, Lionel Simmons in 1990, Walt Williams in 1992, Bobby Hurley in 1993, Jason Williams in 1998, Bismack Biyombo in 2011 and Ben McLemore in 2013.

• Houston guard Kingston Flemings, who was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the eighth pick, is the school’s fourth first-round pick since the NBA went to a two-round draft in 1989. He joined Quentin Grimes (2021), Jarace Walker (2023) and Marcus Sasser (2023).

• The first eight picks in the 2026 NBA Draft were college freshmen, tying the 2025 NBA Draft for most freshmen selected to begin a draft.

• Nine of the first 10 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft were college freshmen, tying the record for most freshmen in the top 10, set in 2017 and matched in 2025.

• The Milwaukee Bucks selected Arizona guard Brayden Burries with the 10th pick, marking their first lottery selection since 2016, when they selected Thon Maker with the 10th pick.

• Michigan center Aday Mara of Spain was selected 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder, becoming the highest-drafted player from Spain since Ricky Rubio was selected fifth overall in 2009.

• Mara participated in the 2023 Basketball Without Borders Global camp at NBA All-Star in Salt Lake City, Utah and 2022 Basketball Without Borders Europe camp in Milan, Italy. He was named an All-Star at both camps.

• Mara set a Michigan single-season record with 103 blocks in 2025-26.

• Michigan produced three first-round picks from its 2026 national championship team: Morez Johnson Jr. (No. 9, Dallas), Yaxel Lendeborg (No. 11, Golden State) and Aday Mara (No. 12, Oklahoma City). It marks just the second time in program history that the Wolverines have had three first-round picks in the same draft, joining the 1990 trio of Rumeal Robinson (No. 10), Loy Vaught (No. 13) and Terry Mills (No. 16).

• Johnson (No. 9), Lendeborg (No. 11) and Mara (No. 12) became just the second trio from the same school selected within a four-pick span in the modern draft era. The other was Duke’s 1999 trio of Trajan Langdon (No. 11), Corey Maggette (No. 13) and Will Avery (No. 14).

• Washington forward Hannes Steinbach of Germany, who was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 14th pick, is the school’s highest draft pick since Markelle Fultz was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers with the first pick in the 2017 NBA Draft.

• Steinbach became the highest-drafted player from Germany since Franz Wagner was selected eighth overall in 2021.

• Steinbach began playing for Würzburg in Germany in the 2024-25 season, during which he averaged 7.2 points and 5.7 rebounds while shooting 61.0 percent from the floor in 18.6 minutes over 31 games.

• Steinbach is the son of Burkhard Steinbach, who was a teammate of NBA legend Dirk Nowitzki’s with Würzburg in Germany.

• Iowa guard Bennett Stirtz, who was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 16th pick, is the third first-round pick from Iowa since 1999, joining Keegan Murray (2022) and Kris Murray (2023). (As part of a planned trade the Grizzlies will send the draft rights to Stirtz to the Oklahoma City Thunder.)

• Stanford guard Ebuka Okorie, who was selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 17th pick, became Stanford’s highest draft pick since Ziaire Williams (No. 10 in 2021). (As part of a planned trade, the Thunder will send the draft rights to Okorie to the Detroit Pistons.)

• Texas Tech guard Christian Anderson Jr., who was selected by the Charlotte Hornets with the 18th pick, is the fourth first-round pick from the program since the draft moved to a two-round format in 1989. He joins Tony Battie (1997), Zhaire Smith (2018) and Jarrett Culver (2019).

• Santa Clara forward Allen Graves, who was selected by the Toronto Raptors with the 19th pick, became the school’s fifth first-round pick in the common era, joining Bud Ogden (1969), Steve Nash (1996), Jalen Williams (2022) and Brandin Podziemski (2023).

• New Zealand Breakers forward Karim López of Mexico, who was selected by the Detroit Pistons with the 21st pick, is the first Mexican-born player to be selected in the first round of the NBA Draft. Prior to López, Eduardo Nájera (No. 38 in 2000) was the highest-drafted Mexican-born player in NBA history. (As part of a planned trade, the Pistons will send the draft rights to López to the Memphis Grizzlies.)

• López played the last two seasons with the New Zealand Breakers as part of the Australian NBL’s Next Stars program. López scored 358 points in 2025-26, the most ever by a draft-eligible player in the history of the NBL Next Stars program, surpassing previous lottery picks LaMelo Ball, Josh Giddey and Alex Sarr.

• Born in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, to a father who played for the Mexican national team, López grew up in Mexico before heading to Spain at the age of 14 to play professionally.

• St. John’s forward-center Zuby Ejiofor, who was selected by the Atlanta Hawks with the 23rd pick, is the school’s first draft pick since Sir’Dominic Pointer was selected in the second round (53rd pick) of the 2015 NBA Draft.

• Baylor guard Cameron Carr was selected by the New York Knicks with the 24th pick. Carr set a Baylor single-season sophomore scoring record with 642 points in 2025-26, ranking fifth in program history regardless of class. (As part of a planned trade, the Knicks will send the draft rights to Carr to the Los Angeles Lakers.)

• Sergio de Larrea (Spain; Valencia Basket) was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the 25th pick, marking the first time since 2021 and the fourth time overall that two players from Spain (Aday Mara, 12th) were selected in the first round of the same NBA Draft. (As part of a planned trade, the Lakers will send the draft rights to de Larrea to the New York Knicks.)

• de Larrea participated in the 2022 Basketball Without Borders Europe camp in Milan, Italy, where he was named a camp All-Star. He burst onto the scene by helping Spain capture gold at the 2023 FIBA U-19 World Cup.

• Connecticut center Tarris Reed Jr., who was selected by the Denver Nuggets with the 26th pick, is the first player to have 30+ points and 25+ rebounds in an NCAA Tournament game since Elvin Hayes in 1968. (As part of a planned trade, the Nuggets will send the draft rights to Reed to the San Antonio Spurs.)

• The Minnesota Timberwolves selected Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson with the 28th pick. Jefferson tied for the NCAA Division I lead with two triple-doubles in 2025-26. (As part of a planned trade, the Timberwolves will send the draft rights to Jefferson to the Brooklyn Nets.)

• Connecticut forward Alex Karaban, who was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers with the 29th pick, was a two-time NCAA national champion (2023, 2024) and one-time runner-up (2026) over four seasons at UConn. (As part of a planned traded, the Cavaliers will send the draft rights to Karaban to the Sacramento Kings.)

• Arizona forward Koa Peat, who was selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the 30th pick, became the second Big 12 freshman to score 30 or more points in his career debut, joining Michael Beasley (Kansas State, 2007). (As part of a planned trade, the Mavericks will send the draft rights to Peat to the Phoenix Suns.)

• The first 20 selections in the 2026 NBA Draft all played college basketball, marking the first time since 1994 that the first 20 picks came from the collegiate ranks.

WNBA Game Preview: Atlanta Dream (12-4) vs. Golden State Valkyries (10-7)

WNBA Editor
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WNBA Game Preview: Atlanta Dream (12-4) vs. Golden State Valkyries (10-7)

Chase Center, San Francisco, CA

Tip‑Off: 10:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM PT

Broadcast: ESPN / WNBA League Pass

VENUE: CHASE CENTER

Location: 1 Warriors Way, San Francisco, CA

Capacity: ~18,000

Court Profile: Fast‑paced environment with strong shooting sightlines

Home‑Court Edge: Valkyries are 6–3 at home, feeding off one of the league’s loudest new fanbases.

INJURY REPORT

Atlanta Dream

Rhyne Howard — ACTIVE

Tina Charles — ACTIVE

Allisha Gray — ACTIVE

Haley Jones — OUT (ankle)

Cheyenne Parker‑Tyers — OUT (knee)

Impact: Atlanta’s starting core remains intact, but frontcourt depth is thinner without Parker‑Tyers.

Golden State Valkyries

Kelsey Plum — ACTIVE

Jackie Young — ACTIVE

Cameron Brink — ACTIVE

Chelsea Gray — OUT (foot)

Monique Billings — OUT (shoulder)

Impact: Golden State’s guard rotation is stretched without Chelsea Gray, placing more playmaking responsibility on Plum and Young.

PLAYER MATCHUPS TO WATCH

Rhyne Howard (ATL) vs Jackie Young (GSV)

Howard’s two‑way dominance has been central to Atlanta’s 12–4 start. Young is one of the league’s strongest perimeter defenders and will be tasked with limiting Howard’s pull‑up game and transition scoring.

Edge: Howard (slight)

Tina Charles (ATL) vs Cameron Brink (GSV)

A fascinating veteran‑rookie matchup. Charles’ physicality and post craft challenge Brink’s elite rim protection. Brink’s length could disrupt Charles, but foul trouble is a concern.

Edge: Even

Allisha Gray (ATL) vs Kelsey Plum (GSV)

Gray’s defensive versatility will be aimed at slowing Plum, who is averaging 21+ PPG at home. Plum’s quickness and deep range can break games open.

Edge: Plum (slight)

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Atlanta Dream (12–4)

Last 5: 4–1

Road Record: 6–3

Offensive Rating: 4th

Defensive Rating: 3rd

Trend: Playing elite basketball on both ends

Strength: Balanced scoring, perimeter defense

Weakness: Rebounding without Parker‑Tyers

Golden State Valkyries (10–7)

Last 5: 3–2

Home Record: 6–3

Offensive Rating: 6th

Defensive Rating: 9th

Trend: Strong at home; inconsistent on the road

Strength: Guard scoring + rim protection

Weakness: Turnovers and defensive rebounding

SERIES HISTORY

2025–2026: Atlanta leads 2–1

At Chase Center: Teams split 1–1

Last Meeting (2026): Dream won 88–82 behind 24 from Howard and 19 from Gray.

BETTING TRENDS

Atlanta Dream

6–2 ATS in last 8

Under is 7–3 in last 10

5–1 when holding opponents under 80

Howard averaging 23.0 PPG in last 4 road games

Golden State Valkyries

5–2 ATS in last 7 home games

Over is 6–4 in last 10

4–1 when Plum scores 25+

Valkyries are 1–4 vs teams above .600

Head‑to‑Head

Dream have covered 3 of last 4

Under has hit in 4 of last 6 matchups

GAME ODDS

Atlanta Dream                                  – 2

Golden State Valkyries                  165.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Portland Fire (8-9) vs. Chicago Sky (4-12)

WNBA Editor
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WNBA Game Preview: Portland Fire (8-9) vs. Chicago Sky (4-12)

Wintrust Arena, Chicago, IL

Tip‑Off: 8:00 PM ET / 7:00 PM CT

Broadcast: CBS Sports Network / WNBA League Pass

VENUE: WINTRUST ARENA

Location: 200 E Cermak Rd., Chicago, IL

Capacity: ~10,300

Court Profile: Neutral‑to‑slightly‑slow pace environment

Home‑Court Edge: Sky are 2–6 at home, struggling to generate consistent offense in Chicago.

INJURY REPORT

Portland Fire

A’ja Wilson — ACTIVE

Skylar Diggins‑Smith — ACTIVE

Sami Whitcomb — ACTIVE

Kalani Brown — OUT (ankle)

Lexie Hull — OUT (foot)

Impact: Portland’s star core is intact, but frontcourt depth is thin without Brown.

Chicago Sky

Angel Reese — ACTIVE

Marina Mabrey — ACTIVE

Dana Evans — ACTIVE

Elizabeth Williams — OUT (knee)

Isabelle Harrison — OUT (ankle)

Impact: Chicago’s interior defense is weakened without Williams, a major concern against Wilson.

PLAYER MATCHUPS TO WATCH

A’ja Wilson (POR) vs Angel Reese (CHI)

This is the marquee matchup. Wilson’s polished scoring and rim protection contrast with Reese’s relentless rebounding and physicality. Reese can disrupt possessions, but Wilson’s mid‑range and face‑up game give her the edge.

Edge: Wilson

Skylar Diggins‑Smith (POR) vs Marina Mabrey (CHI)

Diggins‑Smith is Portland’s engine, controlling pace and creating mismatches. Mabrey’s shooting can swing momentum, but she struggles defensively against elite guards.

Edge: Diggins‑Smith

Sami Whitcomb (POR) vs Dana Evans (CHI)

Whitcomb’s spacing and off‑ball movement are critical for Portland. Evans brings speed and shot creation but can be turnover‑prone.

Edge: Whitcomb (slight)

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Portland Fire (8–9)

Last 5: 3–2

Road Record: 3–5

Offensive Rating: 6th

Defensive Rating: 8th

Trend: Playing better basketball after early‑season inconsistency

Strength: Star power + half‑court scoring

Weakness: Rebounding without Brown

Chicago Sky (4–12)

Last 5: 1–4

Home Record: 2–6

Offensive Rating: 11th

Defensive Rating: 10th

Trend: Struggling to close games; offense often stalls late

Strength: Offensive rebounding (Reese)

Weakness: Rim protection + perimeter defense

SERIES HISTORY

All‑Time (2024–2026): Portland leads 3–1

At Chicago: Portland is 2–0

Last Meeting (2026): Fire won 89–78 behind 28 from Wilson and 19 from Diggins‑Smith.

BETTING TRENDS

Portland Fire

4–1 ATS in last 5

Over is 6–3 in last 9

Fire are 5–2 when Wilson scores 25+

Portland is 3–1 ATS vs teams below .400

Chicago Sky

1–6 ATS in last 7

Under is 7–3 in last 10

Sky are 1–5 when allowing 80+ points

Chicago is 0–4 ATS in last 4 home games

Head‑to‑Head

Portland has covered 3 of last 4

Over has hit in 3 of last 4 matchups

GAME ODDS

Portland Fire                     171.5

Chicago Sky                        – 3.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Minnesota Lynx (13-4) vs. Washington Mystics (8-7)

WNBA Editor
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WNBA Game Preview: Minnesota Lynx (13-4) vs. Washington Mystics (8-7)

Entertainment & Sports Arena, Washington, D.C.

Tip‑Off: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT

Broadcast: NBA TV / WNBA League Pass

VENUE: ENTERTAINMENT & SPORTS ARENA

Location: 1100 Oak Dr. SE, Washington, D.C.

Capacity: ~4,200

Court Conditions: Tight, intimate arena with strong home‑court acoustics

Home‑Court Edge: Mystics are 5–2 at home, playing significantly better in D.C. than on the road.

INJURY REPORT

Minnesota Lynx

Napheesa Collier — ACTIVE

Kayla McBride — ACTIVE

Alanna Smith — ACTIVE

Diamond Miller — OUT (knee)

Natisha Hiedeman — OUT (ankle)

Impact: Minnesota’s starting core remains intact, but bench depth is thinner without Miller and Hiedeman.

Washington Mystics

Ariel Atkins — ACTIVE

Shakira Austin — ACTIVE

Julie Vanloo — ACTIVE

Brittney Sykes — OUT (foot)

Myisha Hines‑Allen — OUT (shoulder)

Impact: Washington’s perimeter defense takes a hit without Sykes, but Austin’s presence inside is critical against Collier.

PLAYER MATCHUPS TO WATCH

Napheesa Collier (MIN) vs Shakira Austin (WSH)

Collier is playing at an MVP‑level pace, averaging 22+ PPG over her last five. Austin’s length and mobility give Washington its best chance to slow her, but Collier’s face‑up game and mid‑post footwork remain elite.

Edge: Collier

Kayla McBride (MIN) vs Ariel Atkins (WSH)

McBride’s shooting gravity is essential to Minnesota’s spacing. Atkins is Washington’s best two‑way guard and will chase McBride through screens all night.

Edge: Even

Courtney Williams (WSH) vs Lynx Backcourt

Williams’ mid‑range creation is Washington’s X‑factor. Minnesota’s guards defend well but can be vulnerable to pull‑up specialists.

Edge: Slight to Williams

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Minnesota Lynx (13–4)

Last 5: 4–1

Road Record: 6–3

Offensive Rating: 3rd

Defensive Rating: 2nd

Trend: Playing their best basketball of the season; elite on both ends

Strength: Collier‑McBride two‑woman game, top‑tier defense

Weakness: Bench scoring without Miller

Washington Mystics (8–7)

Last 5: 3–2

Home Record: 5–2

Offensive Rating: 7th

Defensive Rating: 8th

Trend: Much stronger at home; defense improving

Strength: Balanced scoring, strong interior presence

Weakness: Perimeter depth without Sykes

SERIES HISTORY

2023–2026 Combined: Lynx lead 7–4

At Washington: Teams split last 4

Last Meeting (2026): Minnesota won 84–76 behind 26 from Collier and 18 from McBride.

BETTING TRENDS

Minnesota Lynx

6–2 ATS in last 8

Under is 7–3 in last 10

5–1 when holding opponents under 80 points

Collier averaging 24.1 PPG in June

Washington Mystics

5–2 ATS in last 7 home games

Under is 6–4 in last 10

4–1 when Austin records a double‑double

Mystics are 1–4 vs teams above .600

Head‑to‑Head

Lynx have covered 4 of last 6

Under has hit in 5 of last 7 matchups

GAME ODDS

Minnesota Lynx                                – 9

Washington Mystics                       170

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026

WNBA Game Preview: Phoenix Mercury (5-13) vs. Indiana Fever (10-7)

WNBA Editor
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WNBA Game Preview: Phoenix Mercury (5-13) vs. Indiana Fever (10-7)

Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis,

IN Tip‑Off: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT

Broadcast: ESPN2 / WNBA League Pass

VENUE: GAINBRIDGE FIELDHOUSE

Location: 125 S. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis, IN

Capacity: ~17,200

Court Conditions: Standard hardwood, no travel‑related altitude or humidity factors

Home‑Court Edge: Fever are 6–3 at home this season and have drawn strong crowds during their early‑season surge.

INJURY REPORT

Phoenix Mercury

Diana Taurasi — ACTIVE

Kahleah Copper — ACTIVE

Brittney Griner — OUT (ankle)

Natasha Cloud — ACTIVE

Sophie Cunningham — OUT (knee)

Rebecca Allen — OUT (hand)

Impact: Missing Griner and Cunningham continues to hurt Phoenix’s interior defense and spacing.

Indiana Fever

Caitlin Clark — ACTIVE

Aliyah Boston — ACTIVE

Kelsey Mitchell — ACTIVE

Temi Fagbenle — OUT (foot)

Erica Wheeler — ACTIVE

Impact: Fever remain mostly healthy, with their core trio intact and playing heavy minutes.

PLAYER MATCHUPS TO WATCH

Caitlin Clark (IND) vs Natasha Cloud (PHX)

Cloud is one of the league’s most physical perimeter defenders, but Clark’s deep‑range shooting and transition playmaking have been matchup‑proof. Expect Cloud to pressure Clark full‑court, but Indiana will counter with high screens to free Clark for pull‑ups and skip passes.

Edge: Clark

Aliyah Boston (IND) vs Phoenix Frontcourt Committee

With Griner out, Phoenix relies on a rotation of smaller, less physical bigs. Boston should dominate the glass and command double‑teams in the post.

Edge: Boston (major)

Kahleah Copper (PHX) vs NaLyssa Smith (IND)

Copper’s slashing ability is Phoenix’s best offensive weapon. Smith’s athleticism helps, but Copper’s first step and mid‑range game remain elite.

Edge: Copper (slight)

TEAM RECORDS & RECENT FORM

Phoenix Mercury (5–13)

Last 5: 1–4

Road Record: 2–7

Offensive Rating: 10th

Defensive Rating: 11th

Trend: Struggling without Griner; defensive breakdowns late in games

Strength: Copper’s scoring + Cloud’s playmaking

Weakness: Interior defense, rebounding, bench depth

Indiana Fever (10–7)

Last 5: 4–1

Home Record: 6–3

Offensive Rating: 5th

Defensive Rating: 7th

Trend: Playing their best basketball of the season; Clark‑Boston synergy improving

Strength: Transition offense, rebounding, three‑point shooting

Weakness: Turnovers, occasional defensive lapses on the perimeter

SERIES HISTORY

2024–2026 Combined: Phoenix leads 5–3

At Indianapolis: Teams split last 4

Last Meeting (2026): Fever won 92–84 behind 27 from Clark and 18/12 from Boston.

BETTING TRENDS

Phoenix Mercury

1–6 ATS in last 7

Under is 5–2 in last 7

0–4 ATS in last 4 road games

1–5 without Griner this month

Indiana Fever

4–1 ATS in last 5

Over is 6–3 in last 9

5–1 when scoring 85+ points

Clark averaging 22.4 PPG in last 5 home games

Head‑to‑Head

Over has hit in 4 of last 5

Home team has won 5 of last 6 matchups

GAME ODDS

Phoenix Mercury             176.5

Indiana Fever                    – 8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Dutch Gambling Tax Increase Falls Short of Revenue Targets, Regulator Says

Gaming Editor
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Dutch Gambling Tax Increase Falls Short of Revenue Targets, Regulator Says

AMSTERDAM – Recent increases to the Netherlands’ gambling tax have generated far less revenue than expected, according to a joint review released by the Ministry of Finance and the Dutch Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit).

The levy, raised from 30.5% to 34.2% on Jan. 1, 2025, and again to 37.8% in 2026, was intended to boost government income. But the “monitor of the effects of the increase in gambling tax” found that projected gains did not materialize.

Officials had estimated the higher rate would produce an additional €108 million in 2025 and €216 million in 2026. Instead, the monitor reported increases of only €2 million and €57 million, respectively. The report also noted that revenue from state participations declined, further reducing the net benefit to the government.

The shortfall stems from several developments, the review said. Measures introduced in recent years to strengthen player protections reduced operators’ gross gaming result (GSR), shrinking the taxable base. The higher tax rate itself may have contributed to the decline, with some gambling venues reportedly closing for profitability reasons.

The monitor also examined potential effects on market size, channeling, and contributions to charities and sports. Regulators said no clear conclusions could be drawn because multiple policy changes — including new player‑protection rules and advertising restrictions — occurred simultaneously and influenced the market.

New York Yankees finalize two roster transactions

MLB Editor
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New York Yankees finalize two roster transactions

Prior to tonight’s game, the Yankees made the following roster moves:

  • Recalled INF/OF Oswaldo Cabrera (#95) from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
  • Placed INF Ryan McMahon on the 10-day injured list (retroactive to 6/22) with a throat infection.

Washington Nationals recall Carson Palmquist

MLB Editor
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Washington Nationals recall Carson Palmquist

The Washington Nationals recalled left-handed pitcher Carson Palmquist from Triple-A Rochester on Wednesday and optioned right-handed pitcher Paxton Schultz to Triple-A Rochester on Tuesday. Nationals President of Baseball Operations Paul Toboni made the announcements.

Palmquist, 25, will start tonight’s game against Philadelphia as he joins the Nationals for the first time this season after he was acquired from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for cash on May 25. In seven games for Triple-A Rochester, he has pitched to a 3.27 ERA with six strikeouts and a .147 opponents average (5-for-34) in 11.0 innings. Over his last four outings, Palmquist allowed just one earned run in 6.0 innings (1.50 ERA), struck out five and allowed only two hits.

Originally drafted by the Rockies in the third round of the 2022 First-Year Player Draft out of the University of Miami, Palmquist made his Major League debut for Colorado on May 16, 2025, at Arizona. He went on to pitch in nine Major League games last season and made seven starts, including an eight-strikeout performance in 4.2 innings against the New York Mets on June 1, 2025.

A native of Fort Myers, Fla., Palmquist has pitched in five Minor League seasons, going 19-20 with a 4.32 ERA and 403 strikeouts in 324.2 innings over 92 games (63 starts). His 11.19 strikeouts per 9.0 innings since his first season in 2022 ranks 16th in all of Minor League Baseball.

MLB Game Preview: Athletics (38-41) vs. San Francisco Giants (32-46)

MLB Editor
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MLB Game Preview: Athletics (38-41) vs. San Francisco Giants (32-46)

SAN FRANCISCO – The Oakland Athletics and San Francisco Giants meet Wednesday night at Oracle Park in the latest chapter of the Bay Bridge rivalry, with Joey Jump scheduled to start for Oakland against Tyler Mahle for San Francisco. First pitch is set for 6:45 p.m. PT.

The Athletics enters at 38–41, continuing to outperform preseason expectations behind improved pitching and timely hitting. San Francisco, at 32–46, is trying to halt a June slide that has pushed it toward the bottom of the NL West standings.

Venue

Oracle Park — San Francisco, California

First pitch: 6:45 p.m. PT

Surface: Natural grass

Dimensions: 339–399–309 (deep alleys, pitcher‑friendly)

Weather

  • Temperature: 63°F
  • Wind: 13 mph blowing out toward right-center
  • Humidity: 72%
  • Chance of rain: 0%

Cool, breezy conditions typical of Oracle Park favor pitchers, though the wind may aid left‑handed power.

Probable Pitchers

Athletics: RHP Joey Jump

Jump has been one of Oakland’s most consistent arms, featuring a mid‑90s fastball and a sharp slider. He has allowed three runs or fewer in five of his last seven starts and has shown improved command in June. His challenge will be navigating San Francisco’s left‑handed bats in a park that suppresses right‑handed power.

San Francisco: RHP Tyler Mahle

Mahle continues to work back into form after injury, leaning on a four‑seam/slider mix with above‑average strikeout potential. He has been more effective at home, where his ERA sits below 3.80. However, he has struggled at times with walks and deep counts.

Injury Report

Athletics

  • Brent Rooker — ACTIVE
  • Zack Gelof — ACTIVE
  • Shea Langeliers — ACTIVE
  • Mason Miller — OUT (elbow)
  • Esteury Ruiz — OUT (ankle)

San Francisco Giants

  • Matt Chapman — ACTIVE
  • Michael Conforto — ACTIVE
  • Jorge Soler — ACTIVE
  • Logan Webb — OUT (forearm)
  • LaMonte Wade Jr. — OUT (hamstring)

Team Records & Recent Form

Athletics (38–41)

  • Last 10: 6–4
  • Trend: Pitching improving; offense streaky
  • Strength: Bullpen depth, team speed
  • Weakness: Strikeout rate, inconsistent middle‑order production

San Francisco Giants (32–46)

  • Last 10: 3–7
  • Trend: Offense struggling; rotation depleted
  • Strength: Veteran lineup pieces
  • Weakness: Run prevention, late‑inning relief

Key Player Matchups

Brent Rooker (OAK) vs Tyler Mahle (SF)

Rooker’s ability to hit high fastballs makes him Oakland’s most dangerous bat. Mahle must keep the ball down to avoid damage.

Michael Conforto (SF) vs Joey Jump (OAK)

Conforto has strong splits against right‑handers and could be San Francisco’s best source of early offense.

Zack Gelof (OAK) vs Giants Bullpen

Gelof’s speed and gap power give Oakland a late‑inning advantage against a relief corps that has struggled with traffic on the bases.

Series History

  • Season series: Athletics lead 2–1
  • At Oracle Park: Giants have won 6 of last 10
  • Recent trend: Oakland has outscored San Francisco 17–14 across their last four meetings

Betting Trends

Athletics

  • 5–2 in last seven road games
  • Under has hit in 6 of last 9
  • 4–2 in Jump’s last six starts

San Francisco Giants

  • 2–8 in last 10 overall
  • Over has hit in 5 of last 7
  • 1–5 in Mahle’s last six starts

Game Odds

Athletics                                              – 122

San Francisco Giants                      8

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 23, 2026

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