Start your morning with Buzzcast with Abe Madkour: Sports upfront and center; how will MJ be on NBC? More mixed-use success at The Battery
Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist Alex Morgan joins current controlling owners, the Levine-Leichtman family, as a minority investor in the NWSL’s San Diego Wave FC. alex morgan retirement presser
Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist Alex Morgan becomes the latest retired athlete to take a stake in a women’s sports franchise as she joins current controlling owners, the Levine-Leichtman family, as a minority investor in the NWSL’s San Diego Wave FC.
Wave FC declined to share the exact amount of Morgan’s stake, the cost of the investment or if an outside firm consulted Morgan through the deal. The team announced in March 2024 that founder Ron Burkle had sold Wave FC to Lauren Leichtman and husband Arthur Levine‘s family office in a two-part deal at an average valuation of $113M with the sale completed in October 2024.
Upon her return to the same team she helped lead to its first playoff berth in their inaugural year, Morgan said she believes the club has the “power to change the future of women’s sports.” Leichtman believes Morgan’s decision to invest is a “reflection of her belief in what we are building.”
The five NBA teams who could have abandoned FanDuel Sports Network this spring — including the Cavaliers — are instead opting in for the 2025-26 season. Getty Images
The five NBA teams who could have abandoned FanDuel Sports Network this spring are instead opting in for the 2025-26 season, meaning the network’s parent company Main Street Sports Group will retain its full slate of 13 franchises for the immediate future.
The contracts for the Hawks, Cavaliers, Heat, Bucks and Timberwolves expired after this past season, and those first four teams — along with the T’Wolves, whose deadline is later this month and are expected to extend, as well– were purportedly convinced that Main Street was solvent five months after emerging from bankruptcy. Even more crucially, the NBA is still not ready to unveil its national streaming RSN, leaving those teams with a simple choice: return and take Main Street’s stable — yet dipping — rights fees or try the less lucrative over-the-air route. The five teams chose Main Street.
“FanDuel Sports Network is excited to continue to deliver exceptional broadcasts for our 13 NBA team partners through a flexible, multi-platform offering that fans can easily access and reaches 100% of the teams’ local markets,” a Main Street Sports Group spokesperson said Monday night. “We will continue working alongside the NBA and our team partners to innovate the viewing experience and drive engagement.”
Main Street’s statement is in line with the company’s continuing efforts to espouse and expand its streaming capabilities. In its pitches to NBA teams, Main Street has pushed back on the notion that RSNs are only available to limited audiences due to tiers and carriage disputes. Instead, the company has made clear that every FanDuel Sports Network Game is available to be streamed through either its app or as a Prime Video add-on channel — thus their notion that they have 100% local reach.
The Mavericks drew the No. 1 pick in Monday evening’s NBA Draft Lottery, securing “the ability to land consensus top selection” Cooper Flagg of Duke. Anadolu via Getty Images
The Mavericks drew the No. 1 pick in Monday evening’s NBA Draft Lottery, securing “the ability to land consensus top selection” Cooper Flagg of Duke. Incredibly, the franchise that “in every way seemed cursed” since the controversial Feb. 1 trade of G Luka Doncic “had another transcendent talent, 18-year-old Flagg, fall into its lap” in Chicago’s McCormick Place Convention Center. Until Monday, the Mavericks’ draft lottery luck “had been nothing short of rotten.” This was the first time in 17 draft lottery attempts that the franchise got a higher pick than the odds projected. Representing the Mavericks on stage was franchise great Rolando Blackman. Representing Dallas backstage, “where the actual drawing took place,” was assistant GM Matt Riccardi (DALLAS MORNING NEWS, 5/12).
Conspiracy theories “will be everywhere, naturally.” Dallas trades Doncic to the Lakers, “gifting (or so it seemed) the NBA’s marquee franchise a new superstar to build around,” and the league “rewards the Mavs with a fresh-faced new star.” It’s a “sticky narrative, like the frozen envelope David Stern supposedly pulled” to send Basketball HOFer Patrick Ewing to the Knicks. But the NBA “takes great pains to legitimize its draft process.” That Dallas won the lottery “is stunning,” but it “is not suspect” (SI, 5/12).
The Mavericks’ draft spot win comes after the Dallas Wings won the WNBA Draft Lottery last November. Dallas “will have the two biggest names from this past season of college basketball competing in the city.” This marks just the second time in NBA/WNBA history in which the same city won the No. 1 pick in both leagues. The only other time this occurred was in 2003 when the Cavaliers and Rockers both won the lottery (SI, 5/12).
Starting with the 2020 draft, the NBA “flattened its lottery odds” so instead of the team with the worst record having a 25% chance of winning the lottery, the three teams with the worst record shared the same odds to get the No. 1 pick (14%), No. 2 pick (13.4%), No. 3 pick (12.7%) and No. 4 pick (12%). This was done to discourage tanking, but the Jazz, Wizards and Hornets “won 17, 18 and 19 games, and they ended up with the fifth, sixth and fourth picks, respectively” (USA TODAY, 5/12).
TelevisaUnivision is providing shuttles for media from Disney’s N.Y. HQ to its event later in the morning, and then the advertising crew will head to Disney’s upfront presentation at the Javits Center at 4pm ET, before closing out the evening at Telemundo.
As expected, sports were a heavy presence in Amazon’s presentation to a crowd of several thousand. Getty Images for Amazon
Amazon closed the first day of upfronts with a bang — and a slew of sports talent. From the Beacon Theatre in Manhattan, DJ Steve Aoki entertained the crowd before the presentation kicked off Monday night with an entrance from Lizzo, Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista – who made their way to the stage through the crowd. As expected, sports were a heavy presence in Amazon’s presentation to a crowd of several thousand, with a pre-recorded spoof of “New Heights” with Travis and Jason Kelce attempting to explain Amazon’s “full-funnel” advertising offering. Many in the crowd expected that to be it, and then the brothers came on stage.NASCAR had a much bigger presence at Amazon than it did at Fox earlier in the day, with an appearance from Jeff Gordon and a return from Lizzo, who said she’s “tuned up like a NASCAR pit stop.” Though the full NFL schedule won’t arrive until tomorrow evening, we’re getting an idea of some of the marquee matchups throughout the week. Charissa Thompson, Ryan Fitzpatrick and Andrew Whitworth revealed a Bears and Eagles matchup on Black Friday, and Broncos vs. Chiefs on Christmas Day. Like at NBCUniversal, the NBA featured heavily Monday night, with Amazon revealing its talent. Taylor Rooks, Udonis Haslem, Blake Griffin and Candace Parker will anchor coverage, while also highlighting the WNBA, with huge applause from the crowd.A rarity these upfront days, Amazon threw a massive after-party at the New York Public Library, with performances from Lizzo, Steve Aoki and Chromeo. The Kelce brothers showed up, though they remained in a private room. Even after a long day trekking around Manhattan, thousands made their way across town to end the first day of upfronts.U.S. skier Paula Moltzan at the Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Women’s Slalom on Jan. 14 in Austria. Stifel will continue to entitle the U.S. Ski team through ’34 as part of a contract extension. Christophe Pallot/Agence Zoom/Getty Images The investment bank Stifel will announce today that it has extended its sponsorship deal with U.S. Ski & Snowboard through the 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Games, a deal the governing body calls its “most expansive partnership” ever. Officials declined to comment on financial terms, but a source said the total price over the eight-year term — the current contract runs through the ’26 Winter Games — is close to $100M. USSS CEO Sophie Goldschmidt said being able to lock in such a long-term extension a year before the deal expired will lend confidence to other sponsors and the governing body itself.“To be honest, it was one of the easier negotiations I’ve been through, because there was so much value that was obvious on both sides,” Goldschmidt said. “But having said that, given the current state of the economy, you don’t ever want to take anything for granted.”The hallmark of the new deal is a performance bonus program for athletes and coaches, funded fully by Stifel. Athletes will become eligible for the bonuses with crystal globe wins (given to the high-point winners in the world cup circuit) and world championship medals, and coaches can win with Nations Cup victories. More details will be shared with athletes soon, Goldschmidt said.Read More >>>
The Denver City Council on Monday approved the “framework” for a deal to build a $70M stadium specifically for the new Denver NWSL team. Denver NWSL
The Denver City Council on Monday approved the “framework” for a deal to build a $70M stadium specifically for the new Denver NWSL team. The approval means the city would “spend up to” $70M to “acquire and prepare the site for construction.” After that, the NWSL team would spend about $200M “to build the stadium.” That deal “is far from set in stone, however.” Several council members said they “would give initial approval but wanted to see the detailed plans, along with assessing the economy, before agreeing to shell out the money.” Twelve of 13 council members “ultimately gave their stamp of approval.” The stadium, which would seat 14,500 people and open in 2028, “will face more council votes in the fall after the public has a chance to weigh in and planners decide on the final design.” No money “will change hands until after those votes,” said Laura Swartz, a spokesperson for the city’s Department of Finance (DENVER POST, 5/12).
In front of a sellout crowd of 12,364 fans at Matthew Knight Arena Monday night, G Sabrina Ionescu and the Liberty “put on a show” in an 84-61 preseason win over the Toyota Antelopes of the Women’s Japanese Basketball League. Getty Images
In front of a sellout crowd of 12,364 fans at Matthew Knight Arena Monday night, G Sabrina Ionescu and the Liberty “put on a show” in an 84-61 preseason win over the Toyota Antelopes of the Women’s Japanese Basketball League (EUGENE REGISTER-GUARD, 5/12). Liberty co-owner Clara Wu Tsai and Oregon coach Kelly Graves “were among those at the game” (AP, 5/13).
Ionescu left with 6:03 to go “to a standing ovation from the first sellout for a women’s basketball game at MKA since March 1, 2020, Ionescu’s final college home game.” Liberty coach Sandy Brondello said getting to play on the campus of two of her team’s stars “was a chance to grow the game and something WNBA teams should embrace.” It was the first time former Oregon star Nyara Sabally “got to be on the court for a sellout at UO,” where she spent multiple seasons injured and played in an empty building during 2020-21 before providing some big moments in 2021-22. Sabally “brought the crowd to its feet first by scoring the game’s first point” (Portland OREGONIAN, 5/12).
Ionescu was “honored” by Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson following practice on Sunday at the practice courts at Matthew Knight Arena, officially recognizing May 12 as “Sabrina Ionescu Day.” Earlier in the day, Ionescu and her SI20 foundation “held a youth basketball camp just before the Liberty practiced” on the main court at Matthew Knight Arena. The night before, after flying in from N.Y., Ionescu “spent time at Rennie’s Landing to pass out beers and interact directly with fans” on the Oregon campus (EUGENE REGISTER-GUARD, 5/12).
Through a complementary deal with race rightsholder Fox, Ericsson’s pit crew will wear QR codes during his initial stop directing consumers to a “Pit Shop” site. Allegra
Opella’s Allegra brand of OTC antihistamine medication is mounting an ambitious Indy 500 marketing effort that includes a sponsorship with Andretti Global Racing and a paint out of Marcus Ericsson‘s No. 28 Honda in the brand’s signature purple for the “Great American Race.”Through a complementary deal with race rightsholder Fox, Ericsson’s pit crew will wear QR codes during his initial stop directing consumers to a “Pit Shop” site with an associated game, and information on the allergy-relief medication. Support includes dedicated social and digital media.United Entertainment Group did the deals for Opella. “The Indy 500 (May 25) is one of the highest pollen-count weekends of the year and one of the busiest driving weekends of the year, so this all made sense,” said UEG EVP/Head of Sports Michael Brown.Jones, who is based in Colorado Springs, will serve as Managing Director at BPI and report to partner Bradley Akubuiro. Mark Jones Veteran sports communications executive Mark Jones will oversee strategy and growth of D.C.-based Bully Pulpit International’s sports practice following the global firm’s acquisition of Jones’ consultancy, Agado Communications. Jones, who is based in Colorado Springs, will serve as Managing Director at BPI and report to partner Bradley Akubuiro.The hire bolsters BPI’s sports offering following its formal rollout last October with the help of outside advisors Mark Patricof and Terrence Burns. The firm’s stated aim is to work with leagues, teams, governing bodies and brands on issues at the intersection of sports, business, culture and public trust. The multi-disciplinary communications firm has 13 offices in the U.S. and Europe. Jones began his career as a legislative assistant in the U.S. Senate before a five-year stint at PR firm Hill & Knowlton. He worked in communications for the USOPC for more than a decade before launching Agado in 2020. He will bring a stable of clients with him to BPI, including the NWSL, USA Cricket and USA Cheer. Previous Agado clients include the IOC and International Cricket Council. BPI has previously represented numerous high-profile sports clients on key issues. The firm advised the PGA Tour following its rocky 2023 announcement of its agreement with the Saudi Public Investment Fund and supported the NCAA’s Division I Transformation Committee. Other BPI sports clients have included the NFL and F1.Pizza Hut will give away $20,000 worth of pizzas this weekend to activate its new sponsorship of the United Football League. UFL Pizza party weekend Pizza Hut will give away $20,000 worth of pizzas this weekend to activate its new sponsorship of the United Football League, the parties will announce today. Pizza Hut has become the exclusive pizza and wings sponsor of the two-year old spring football league. Terms were not disclosed. It will also be the presenting sponsor of “UFL Fox Friday,” league co-owner Fox Sports’ weekly flagship UFL game broadcast window at 8pm ET.During the four UFL games this weekend, the pizza chain will back the “UFL Pizza Party Weekend delivered by Pizza Hut.” As part of the plan, Pizza Hut will give away 100 $200 gift cards to its stores, to both at-home viewers via online sweepstakes and in-person giveaways to fans at the games in San Antonio, St. Louis, Houston and D.C. (Friday is “national pizza party day,” widely celebrated by pizza sellers.)Josh Cella, the UFL’s EVP/Commercial Operations, said the integration between Fox, UFL and each stadium required to execute the national pizza party is a proof of concept of the league’s single-ownership structure.Read More >>>
Bill Koenig, who oversees global content and media distribution for the NBA, is scheduled to speak this week at MoffettNathanson’s Media, Internet & Communications conference. marc bryan-brown
As the top networks and streamers take the stage for upfronts events this week, J.P. Morgan and MoffettNathanson will host their annual media and communications conferences.
J.P. Morgan’s Global Technology, Media and Communications conference runs Tuesday through Thursday at the Westin Boston Seaport District hotel, featuring presentations from TKO Group’s Mark Shapiro and Liberty Media President & CEO Derek Chang, among others.
MoffettNathanson’s Media, Internet & Communications event will be held Wednesday and Thursday at the Westin Times Square in N.Y., where sports-focused speakers will include the NBA’s Bill Koenig, DraftKings Chair & CEO Jason Robins, Fox Corp. President & COO John Nallen and Andrew Yaffe, the CEO of Dude Perfect.
SBJ launches its twelfth newsletter today, focusing on the business of women’s sports. Headed up by Rachel Axon, the biweekly newsletter will focus on teams, leagues, investments (and investors), media deals and sponsorships, among other topics.
SBJ’s formal commitment will extend beyond newsletters to include “SBJ Live” sessions centering on the business of women’s sports, beginning with a WNBA preview session on Wednesday, a regular column in the magazine starting May 19 and other to-come initiatives.
SBJ Women’s Sports joins Media, Facilities, Marketing, Tech, Football, Betting, College, Gaming, Unpacks, Unpacks Lite and Power Up as newsletter offerings from the newsroom.
Speed Reads…
The Toronto Tempo “will announce” today that Canadian YouTube star Lilly Singh is the “newest ownership member” of the WNBA franchise. Singh will be the team’s “Chief Hype Officer, which the club described as ‘building and amplifying excitement for the Tempo on and off the court’” (THE ATHLETIC, 5/13).
The Pro Padel League is “partnering” with Unrivaled, the 3-on-3 women’s basketball league, to “kick off the PPL’s 2025 season in Miami” (THE ATHLETIC, 5/13).
Morning Hot Reads: More than a Show
ANDSCAPE went with the header, “For me, ‘Around the Horn’ was more than a show.” A few months after my first appearance on Around the Horn, I “found myself spending more minutes of my day lying on the floor atop piles of dirty clothes than I spent functioning as a human being.” I was “depressed and stuck in an endless loop.” I’d wake up “for my kids,” and “for Around the Horn.” For months, Around the Horn “was the only thing that got me outside.” One of the “revolutionarily beautiful aspects” of the show is “how it empowered journalists to speak their minds about topics they’re passionate about.”
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Social Scoop…
“Nico Harrison made the worst trade in NBA history. The Mavs missed the playoffs and found themselves in the draft lottery. Now why would he do that?” pic.twitter.com/kpl9BcEY6F
I was in the draft lottery room in 2008 when the Bulls won the No. 1 pick with just a 1.7% chance and there was a Chicago kid at the top of the board in Derrick Rose. Wild. Shocking. But it was all legitimate.
Quiet Celtics room. Porzingis was sitting still in his locker. Pritchard spoke to a few reporters and left. White and Brown will be at the podium. Hauser sat in the hallway outside staring ahead.
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – UNC Asheville Athletics has announced the induction of Nick McDevitt and Sarah Gentry into the 2026 UNC Asheville Athletics Hall of Fame. The pair will be honored during a formal induction ceremony on Friday, Feb. 20, as part of the University’s Homecoming celebration.
Nick McDevitt (Men’s Basketball | 1997–2018)
Nick McDevitt devoted more than two decades to the UNC Asheville men’s basketball program, serving the Bulldogs with distinction as a student-athlete, assistant coach, associate head coach, and head coach from 1997 to 2018.
McDevitt was a four-year letterman for the Bulldogs and was a member of Asheville’s 1998 Big South regular-season championship team during his freshman campaign. He emerged as a key contributor during his senior season, helping guide the Bulldogs to a third-place finish in the conference standings.
Following his graduation in 2001, McDevitt immediately joined the coaching staff under legendary head coach Eddie Biedenbach. Over 12 seasons as an assistant coach, including his final two as associate head coach, McDevitt helped lead Asheville to three Big South Tournament championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances. The Bulldogs recorded Opening Round victories in the NCAA Tournament in both 2003 and 2011, captured three Big South regular-season titles, and advanced to the 2008 National Invitation Tournament (NIT).
McDevitt succeeded Biedenbach as head coach in 2013 and continued the program’s tradition of excellence. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs won the 2016 Big South Tournament championship and advanced to the NCAA Tournament, where they faced eventual national champion Villanova. Asheville also secured Big South regular-season titles in 2017 and 2018, earning postseason appearances both years.
McDevitt was named Big South Coach of the Year in 2017, and during his final three seasons at the helm, the Bulldogs won at least 21 games each year and advanced to postseason play annually. Asheville compiled a 66–35 record during that stretch. McDevitt departed UNC Asheville in April 2018 to become the head coach at Middle Tennessee State.
“Nick McDevitt represents everything we strive for at UNC Asheville — loyalty, leadership, and a commitment to excellence,” said Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. “His impact on our men’s basketball program spans generations, and his legacy is deeply woven into the success and identity of Bulldog Basketball.”
Sarah Gentry (Track & Field | 2009–2013)
Sarah Gentry enjoyed one of the most accomplished track and field careers in UNC Asheville history. A six-time Big South Conference champion, Gentry excelled in middle-distance events throughout her Bulldog tenure.
She captured Big South titles in the 800 meters twice during the indoor season and twice during the outdoor season. Gentry was also a member of two championship relay teams, winning conference titles as part of the outdoor 1500-meter relay and the indoor distance medley relay (800-meter leg).
Gentry concluded her career with four school records, two of which still stand more than a decade after her graduation — the indoor and outdoor 800-meter records. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, she was named the 2013 UNC Asheville Female Athlete of the Year. Sarah excelled in the classroom, graduating Cum Laude with Honors and DIstinction in International Studies.
“Sarah is one of the most decorated and impactful student-athletes our track and field program has ever seen,” said Cone. “Her competitive drive, consistency, and record-setting performances set a standard that continues to inspire our current and future student-athletes. Her success went beyond the podium, as she represented UNC Asheville with class, determination, and excellence, and her lasting records speak to just how special her career truly was.”
Since graduating from UNC Asheville, Sarah earned her M.B.A. degree from the University of Nevada, Reno and presently works for Microsoft as a Process Program Manager.
The 2026 UNC Asheville Athletics Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Friday, Feb. 20, during Homecoming weekend in the Blue Ridge Room in the Highsmith Student Union.
Kristian Titriyski isn’t the kind of person to dwell on things in the past.
The 6-foot-8 sophomore outside hitter from Sofia, Bulgaria, burst onto the scene last season with immense talent that was evident from the very first swing he took that seemed to explode out of his hand.
In 23 matches, Titriyski led Hawaii averaging 4.24 kills per set and hit .325 with 34 aces.
The Rainbow Warriors were 22-3 when Titriyski went down with an injury in the second of back-to-back matches at Cal State Northridge.
Hawaii went 5-3 the rest of the season with Titriyski unable to return. He thought he was ready to play in Hawaii’s national semifinal match against UCLA but ultimately couldn’t go. The news then got a lot worse when he returned home.
“When I went back to Bulgaria around June, I found out that I had two fractures in my ankle, so I had to have surgery and missed the whole summer,” Titriyski said. “I’ve just been trying to get back in shape and I’m good now and really I just want to look forward and be happy I am back playing.”
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Upon returning to Hawaii, Titiryski joked his first thought was wanting to go back home. Now that he’s back in the daily grind of playing for the University of Hawaii, all he is thinking about is stepping on the court tonight in the Rainbow Warriors’ season opener against New Jersey Institute of Technology at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center.
“I’m just excited to play and really, I feel super motivated right now,” Titriyski said. “I just can’t wait for the first game.”
Hawaii coach Charlie Wade said the best position battle has been on the right side between Titriyski and Kainoa Wade, who benefited from a summer playing with the United States’ U21 team.
At full strength, Titriyski is one of the top players in the country and as good a hitter as there is.
“Kristian has been pushed by Kainoa now,” Wade said. “Kainoa is coming in playing at a really high level and you can tell Kristian is like, ‘Hey, I’ve got to get going here because this guy is coming.’ They are really the only two that can play at that level at that position and it’s been fun to watch.”
The injury meant Titriyski could only watch from the side as Hawaii came up short in the NCAA Tournament against UCLA.
He then had to go home and watch his national team compete without him on the floor.
It was an emptiness that Titriyski hopes to fill this year with a national championship.
“We all know how good we are. We don’t only have the six guys who are on the court, but we have 19 guys that are all pretty good and talented and motivated to play,” Titriyski said. “I would say what we lacked last year was consistency against lower level teams where we thought it would be an easy win and sometimes it happened and things would turn around against us. Our plan is to be more consistent with those teams and looking forward, we’ve got to be our very best every single day.”
There isn’t a player on the team more intense on the court than Titriyski, who at times can get heated.
Minutes into Monday’s practice, he was already yelling at a teammate during the first drill.
That competitiveness is what makes Titriyski a unique player. It’s also what makes him an intimidating presence for opposing teams.
“I just love to play the game,” Titriyski said. “And I want to win. I want to win for the fans here. I was watching our national team get second this summer at the world championship and our crowd here is way more into the games. Even if we’re winning or losing, it doesn’t matter. They are always supporting the team. All of that love that you get affects you in a positive way and I know I am, and we all are, so grateful for that.”
KRISTIAN TITRIYSKI
6-foot-8, Soph., Opposite
AVCA All-America second team; All-Big West first team
The AL.com high school volleyball all state team features the top players in each class.
AHSAA state champions were Class 7A McGill-Toolen, Class 6A Spanish Fort, Class 5A Guntersville, Class 4A Cherokee County, Class 3A Mobile Christian, Class 2A Pleasant Valley and Class 1A Addison while Southern Academy and Macon East won AISA titles.
The volleyball all-state team was compiled by the AL.com high school sports staff with input from coaches.
AL.com named Player of the Year, Attacker MVP, Setter MVP, Defensive MVP and Coach of the Year. Award winners are listed separately, but considered first-team selections.
AL.COM ALL-STATE VOLLEYBALL TEAM
McGill-Toolen celebrates the title win against Thompson during the AHSAA Class 7A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Maddy Henderson, Thompson, 6-0, Jr., Setter/Right Side
Maggie Jae Marsh, Austin, 5-8, Jr., Setter
Millie Burgess, Vestavia Hills, 6-1, Sr., Outside Hitter
MK Whitehurst, Bayside Academy, 5-3, Sr., Libero
Mya Lacey, Bob Jones, 5-10, Sr., Right Side/Setter
Payton McClarren, McGill-Toolen, 5-2, Sr., Libero
Sydnie Broom, Hoover, 6-1, Sr., Middle
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
McGill-Toolen’s Alice Wood serves against Thompson during the AHSAA Class 7A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Alice Wood, McGill-Toolen
5-9, Jr., Setter
ATTACKER MVP
Ella Lomax, Daphne
5-11, Sr., Outside Hitter
DEFENSIVE MVP
Kenzly Foote, Thompson
5-7, Sr., Defensive Specialist
SETTER MVP
Bennett Boulo, St. Paul’s
5-10, Sr., Setter/Right Side
COACH OF THE YEAR
Kate Wood, McGill-Toolen
HONORABLE MENTION
Outside Hitter/Right Side: Kayleigh Kinser, Auburn, So.; Arden Breedlove, Austin, Sr.; Reese Wolfe, Hewitt-Trussville, Sr.; Caroline Whitehurst, Oak Mountain, Sr.; Amari Woods, Austin, Jr.; Ella Watts, Bob Jones, So.; Brooke Reeves, Grissom, Sr.; Aliyah Pooler, Hoover, Sr.; Marissa Smith, St. Paul’s, Fr.; Julia Celani, James Clemens, So. ; Kyra Willis, Hillcrest-Tuscaloosa, Jr.; Ella Brown, Dothan, Jr.; Claire Ogden, Vestavia Hills, Sr.; Jaedyn Lang, McGill-Toolen, Sr.; Anna Grace Chason, Daphne, Sr.
Defensive Specialist/Libero: Emani Green, James Clemens, Sr. ; Cheyenne Conner, Hoover, Sr.; Lillie Hill, Vestavia Hills, Jr.; Addy Busby, Fairhope, Jr.; Kendall Dougherty, St. Paul’s, Sr.; Reese Colbert, Dothan, Jr.
Spanish Fort celebrates a championship after a win over Hazel Green at the AHSAA Class 6A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Vasha Hunt | preps@al.com)
Vasha Hunt
CLASS 6A
Alexis Rudolph, Chelsea, 6-1, Jr., Outside Hitter
Avery Warren, Northridge, 5-9, Jr., Setter/Right Side
Aylah Duvall, Hazel Green, 6-0, Jr., Middle
Bea Wiggins, Spain Park, 5-11, Sr., Outside Hitter
Morgan Springer, Montgomery Academy, 5-9, Jr., Middle
Sullivan Lell, Mountain Brook, 5-4, Jr., Libero
Victoria Holley, Spanish Fort, 5-6, Sr., Libero
Zoẽ Beech, Spanish Fort, 5-11, Sr., Middle
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Spanish Fort’s Cailyn Boykin sets the ball against Hazel Green during the AHSAA Class 6A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Guntersville celebrates the title win during the AHSAA Class 5A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Kaylin Corley, Saint James School, 5-8, Sr., Outside Hitter/Defensive Specialist
Laklin Shadix, West Point, 6-0, Jr., Outside Hitter
Layla Hendrix, Arab, 6-0, Jr., Middle
Marion Haskell, John Carroll, 6-1, Sr., Right Side
Noelle Suellentrop, Briarwood, 5-11, So., Setter
Sydney Jarmon, Guntersville, 5-8, Sr., Outside Hitter
Sydney Johnston, Saint James School, 5-6, Sr., Libero
Virginia Townsend, Providence Christian, 5-7, Sr., Outside Hitter
Zoe Jones, Montevallo, 6-0, Sr., Outside Hitter
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Guntersville’s Mary George Vandergriff sets the ball against Montgomery Catholic during the AHSAA Class 5A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Mary George Vandergriff, Guntersville
5-8, Sr., Setter
ATTACKER MVP
Julie Roberts, Briarwood
5-10, Jr., Outside Hitter/Right Side
DEFENSIVE MVP
Bri McCulloch, Russellville
5-5, So., Libero
SETTER MVP
Zaria Rudolph, Montgomery Catholic
5-8, So., Middle/Setter
COACH OF THE YEAR
Melissa-Paul Gardner, Guntersville
HONORABLE MENTION
Outside Hitter/Right Side: Kailyn Redding, Fairview, Jr.; Kit Quinlivan, Headland, Sr.; Aliyah Hollingsworth, Boaz, Jr.; Makenzie Irmen, Brewer, Sr.; Brooklyn McIlwain, Faith Academy, Sr.; LaraAnne Norwood, Lawrence County, So.; Kierstyn Green, Montgomery Catholic, Jr.; Laila Hill, Russellville, Sr.; Abigail Mullens, St. Clair County, Jr.; Micaiah Shelton, Trinity, Fr.; Skylar Courtney, UMS-Wright, Sr.; Leighton Hendley, Briarwood, So.; Helen Morrison, Briarwood, Fr ; Mady Kirkpatrick, John Carroll, Sr.; Kiley Jenkins, Headland, Sr.; Chandler Thomas, UMS-Wright, Sr.; Lucy Logsdon, Montgomery Catholic, Jr.
Setter: Josie Childress, Priceville, Sr.; Wendy McGehee, Shelby County, Sr.; Adleigh Borgognoni, St. Clair County, Sr.; Patton Fell, West Point, Sr.; Isabella Marino, John Carroll, Sr.; Millie Lackey, Arab, Jr.
Defensive Specialist/Libero: Kayden Gronczniak, Arab, Sr.; Alley Emerson, Brewer, So.; Caroline Canady, Guntersville, Sr.; Abigayle Hilyer, Jemison, Sr.; Reagan Smith, Lawrence County, Jr.; Lauren Bailey, Providence Christian, Sr.; Lilly Smith, Trinity, So.; Charli Aris, West Point, Sr.
Cherokee County celebrates a championship during the AHSAA Class 4A volleyball state championship against Prattville Christian at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (Vasha Hunt | preps@al.com)
Vasha Hunt
CLASS 4A
Addilyn Gustafson, Madison County, 5-8, Sr., Setter
Cherokee County’s Macy Lea sets the ball against Prattville Christian during the AHSAA Class 4A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Macy Lea, Cherokee County
5-7, Sr., Setter
ATTACKER MVP
Nevaeh Gaidurgis, Cherokee County
5-8, Sr., Outside Hitter/Middle
DEFENSIVE MVP
Ellisan Givens, Cherokee County
5-7, Sr., Libero
SETTER MVP
Baylee Rogers, Prattville Christian
5-8, Sr., Setter
COACH OF THE YEAR
Tiffany Rieger, Cherokee County
HONORABLE MENTION
Outside Hitter/Right Side: Ava Haygood, Cherokee County, Jr.; Lydia Northam, Ashville, Sr.; Emma Guffey, DAR, So.; Isabelle Sutton, Madison Academy, Sr.; Rhyan Holloway, St. John Paul II, Sr.; Sydney Wallace, New Hope, Sr.; Olivia Poarch, Wilson, So.; Emeri Thompson, Central-Florence, Sr.; Jaxson Bruce, Plainview, Jr.
Middle: Kylie Jeffers, Alexandria, Sr.; Jolie Alexander, Cherokee County, So.; Izzy Fearnside, Madison County, Jr.; Adyson Brown, Curry, Sr.; Leah Cate Wilson, Prattville Christian, Sr.; Raygen Muse, West Morgan, Jr.
Setter: Makyala Willingham, Deshler, Sr.; Jada Gray, Plainview, So.; Ryleigh Cochran, Ashville, Jr.; Sarah Bacon, Madison Academy, So.; Ella Bilbo, Orange Beach, Sr.; Jayce Page, Curry, Sr.; Carly Hensley, Danville, Sr.; Caylen Williams, Fayette County, Sr.
Defensive Specialist/Libero: Isabella Grant, St. John Paul II, Jr.; Kendal Scogin, Deshler, Jr.; Charlie Richey, Plainview, Sr.; Mckenna Jackson, Danville, Sr.; Ava Hodo, Orange Beach, Sr.; Morgan Fowler, Prattville Christian, Sr.; Anna Neal, Central-Florence, Sr.; Paige Bradshaw, Madison County, Fr.
Mobile Christian celebrates with the championship trophy during the AHSAA Class 3A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
CLASS 3A
Adeline Dickerson, Lauderdale County, 5-2, Sr., Libero
Alanah Fitch, Ohatchee, 5-4, Sr., Outside Hitter
Alexis Scott, Mobile Christian, 5-6, Sr., Outside Hitter
Amelia Smith, St. Luke’s, 6-0, Sr., Outside Hitter
Ann Davis Sinquefield, Houston Academy, 5-8, Sr., Outside Hitter
Sunjia King-Davis, Lauderdale County, 5-9, Sr., Middle
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Mobile Christian’s Haley Eldridge serves during the AHSAA Class 3A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Haley Eldridge, Mobile Christian
5-6, Sr., Setter
ATTACKER MVP
Hadley Kelly, Mobile Christian
6-1, Jr., Middle
DEFENSIVE MVP
Melissa Patel, Mobile Christian
5-5, Sr., Libero
SETTER MVP
Baker Garside, St. Luke’s
5-6, Sr., Setter
COACH OF THE YEAR
Mallory Boyington, Mobile Christian
HONORABLE MENTION
Outside Hitter/Right Side: Kate Williamon, Donoho, Sr.; Ava Michales, Donoho, Sr.; Karlie Baker, Geraldine, Jr.; Amiyah Thomas, Piedmont, Jr.; Libby King, Westbrook Chrisitan, Jr.; Shannon Alvord, Northside Methodist, Jr.; Emma Underwood, Elkmont, Sr.; Emery Owens, Lauderdale County, Sr.
Middle: Madalynn Moody, Glenwood, Sr.; Avery Dunnam, Lee-Scott, Sr.; Addison Holcomb, Vinemont, Sr.; Millie Wilson, St. Luke’s, Jr.
Pleasant Valley celebrates a championship after a win over Mars Hill Bible during the AHSAA Class 2A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (Vasha Hunt | preps@al.com)
Vasha Hunt
CLASS 2A
Alayna Tate, Belgreen, 5-5, Sr., Setter
Ella Estave, Covenant Christian, 5-5, Sr., Libero
Ella Parris, Pleasant Valley, 5-8, Sr., MB/DS
Ellie Patterson, Pleasant Valley, 5-11, Jr., Middle
Pleasant Valley’s Elise Wheeler serves against Mars Hill Bible during the AHSAA Class 2A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. (Vasha Hunt | preps@al.com)
Vasha Hunt
Elise Wheeler, Pleasant Valley
5-9, Jr., Setter
ATTACKER MVP
Lynleigh Cobb, Winston County
5-10, Sr., Outside Hitter
DEFENSIVE MVP
Madison Schwabe, Pleasant Valley
5-8, Sr., Outside Hitter/Defensive Specialist
SETTER MVP
Kate James, Mars Hill Bible
5-8, So., Setter
COACH OF THE YEAR
Jennifer Mann, Pleasant Valley
HONORABLE MENTION
Outside Hitter/Right Side: Ella Williams, Tuscaloosa Academy, Sr.; Kaylie Joseph, G.W. Long, Sr.; Paitlyn Hughes, Sand Rock, Jr.; Carly Cason, Tharptown, So.; Jaylee Calloway, Winston County, Sr.; Alice Morrison, Lindsay Lane, Jr.
Middle: Carson Hovater, Belgreen, Sr.; Haylan Crook, Mars Hill Bible, So.; Caitlyn Lynch, Sand Rock, Sr.; Raina Gunter, Washington County, Sr.
Setter: Rylie Walker, Cedar Bluff, Sr.; Saydee Coan, Covenant Christian, So.; Rose Garner, Decatur Heritage, Jr.; Tippy Ridge, Washington County, So.; Kaylee Norton, Faith Christian, Fr.
Addison celebrates a state championship during the AHSAA Class 1A volleyball state championship against Meek at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Vasha Hunt | preps@al.com)
Vasha Hunt
Lola Dixon, University Charter, 5-6, Jr., Right Side/Setter
Marley Kilcrease, Brantley, 5-5, Jr., Setter
PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Addison’s Ava Bartlett was selected MVP during the AHSAA Class 1A volleyball state championship at Bill Harris Arena in Birmingham, Ala., Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. (Dennis Victory | preps@al.com)Dennis Victory
Ava Bartlett, Addison
5-11, Jr., Middle
ATTACKER MVP
Annie Ricard, Faith Christian
5-11, Jr., Outside Hitter
DEFENSIVE MVP
Molli Sandlin, Meek
4-11, So., Libero
SETTER MVP
AnnaBeth Powell, Addison
5-9, So., Setter
COACH OF THE YEAR
Sadie Hall, Addison
HONORABLE MENTION
Outside Hitter/Right Side: Shakira Holcombe, Millry, Jr.; Chloe Bush, Pleasant Home, So.; Izzi Hunter, Pleasant Home, So.; Alana Jones, Billingsley, Sr.; Savannah Thrower, Fayetteville, Sr.; Vera Aderholt, Athens Bible, Fr.
Middle: Allyx Williamson, Kinston, Jr.; Kylee Smith, Marion County, 8.
Setter: Carmyn Daugherty, Meek, Sr.; Kendall Wyatt, Addison, Sr.; Bekah Junkin, Marion County, So.
Defensive Specialist/Libero: Anna Belle Collins, Meek, Sr.; Madelyn Egbert, University Charter, Jr.; Shelby Boice, Billingsley, Jr.
It was only two years ago that Louis Sakanoko rushed to Hawaii from his home country of France just days before the start of the 2024 season.
It was quite a culture shock for the 6-foot-5 outside hitter, who struggled to speak English.
One thing he brought with him that has never gone away is his smile. His outgoing personality, and his love for life and volleyball, are evident every time he steps on the floor. It is why in just a short amount of time, in a place far away from home, Sakanoko has quickly become a fan favorite.
“I love it here so much,” Sakanoko said. “I stayed here all summer, and so I discovered a little more of all of the islands and it’s just an amazing place. And I’m so much more comfortable here than I was last year, so everything is all great.”
On a team loaded with talent at the pins, Sakanoko has managed to hold onto his spot as a starter. He started 21 matches last season and hit .259 while averaging 2.39 kills per set.
The practice gym has changed a lot since Sakanoko first got here.
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He’s one of only five players who have been with the team for more than two years.
“It is weird that it’s my third year now, but honestly it feels good,” Sakanoko said. “We have almost the same team as last year, and so it’s nice to have the same energy and the same team spirit and have this work ethic that I think everyone has now.”
Sakanoko is a big part of that team spirit. He was one of the first players in the gym for afternoon practice on Monday, and with that same smile, walked up and shook hands with all of the reporters gathered for a media session.
When asked how he manages to stay so happy, Sakanoko kept it simple.
“How can you not be (happy) in Hawaii?” he responded. “The people here are special, for sure, and the atmosphere is just so different. Like, it’s Christmas, and people are walking around in T-shirts. You can still surf. It’s the best place.”
The Rainbow Warriors are ranked No. 2 in the country to start the season and have a real shot at returning to play in the NCAA Tournament.
Sakanoko gutted his way through the end of the season last year despite getting hurt right before the UCLA match.
The way that season ended has made preparation for this year feel a little different.
“We always want to win a championship,” Sakanoko said. “I got injured before the semi and Kristian got hurt earlier and so we felt like we had it taken away from us a little. We gained some experience from that, but we all want to win a championship this year. I definitely feel like this could be our year.”
Sakanoko famously tied a UH record with nine aces in just his second match as a Rainbow Warrior.
He is one of five returning players who had at least 20 aces a season ago.
As Hawaii prepares to start the season tonight hosting New Jersey Institute of Technology at Bankoh Arena at Stan Sheriff Center, Sakanoko isn’t worried about the quick turnaround from the holiday break.
Practices with such a deep and talented team can at times seem a lot tougher than the actual matches.
“It’s funny, because when you come back from Christmas, you maybe haven’t played for a week or two and so maybe you think you’re a little slow, but you can’t be in these practices,” Sakanoko said. “Every single day in here is like a fight. You have to fight your way if you want to be on the court the next weekend. I think that’s why we’re so good. We have so many players that can push you, and that’s been that way ever since I got here.”
Sakanoko doesn’t think he’s changed much in his time at UH, but his attitude on the practice floor has been noticed by teammates.
Setter Tread Rosenthal, the only other third-year starter, singled out Sakanoko’s growth as a leader as one of the things to be excited about for this season.
“I think Louis has gotten much more mature and literally, this year, has taken a big step off the court of being more mature and more focused on what we need to do to be the best at the end of the year,” Rosenthal said.
Isabelle Hoppe, like most everybody else in the volleyball world, had heard the rumors. But it wasn’t until the end that she thought how it might impact her life.
Photos: Wisconsin volleyball 2025 season in photos
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) serves against UW Milwaukee on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin middle blocker Alicia Andrew (17) is greeted by fans after taking the floor prior to a match against Southern California at the Wisconsin Fieldhouse in Madison, Wis. Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025. JOHN HART, STATE JOURNAL
JOHN HART,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin defenders jump to block a spike by Kansas outside hitter Jovana Zelenovic (9) on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 at Kohl Center in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
The Wisconsin student section reacts after Wisconsin wins the third set against Kansas on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 at Kohl Center in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin setter Charlie Fuerbringer (24) sets the ball for a spike against Texas on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025 at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin setter Charlie Fuerbringer (24) sets the ball against Eastern Illinois on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wiss.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan, left, and middle blocker Carter Booth, right, go up for a block against UC-Davis Sept. 4.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL ARCHIVES
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) and Wisconsin middle blocker Carter Booth (52) yell after a block to win the first set against Purdue on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) elevates to contest a ball at the net against Illinois on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) is introduced prior to the match against Illinois on Thursday, Oct. 2, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin setter Charlie Fuerbringer (24) high-fives kids lined up before playing UC-Davis on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) hits the floor after saving the ball from touching the ground against Texas on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025 at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) helps setter Charlie Fuerbringer (24) off the floor after losing a point to Texas on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2025 at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin head coach Kelly Sheffield huddles with his senior players following the teamÕs win over UNC during a second round NCAA Tournament match between the teams at the Wisconsin Fieldhouse in Madison, Wis. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. JOHN HART, STATE JOURNAL
JOHN HART,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) watches as the ball flies in the air before a serve against Notre Dame on Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) goes up for a spike against UC-Davis on Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin players react after a Minnesota touch goes out of bounds on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
The Wisconsin bench celebrates after a point against UW Milwaukee on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) attempts to spike over three Iowa defenders on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Nebraska middle blocker Rebekah Allick (5) yells after a block on Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
A young fan smiles after getting a high-five from a Wisconsin player during introductions against Minnesota on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Una Vajagic (1) dives for a ball flying out of bounds against Michigan on Saturday, Oct.5, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) is introduced prior to the teamÕs non-conference match against Florida at the Kohl Center in Madison, Wis. Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025. JOHN HART, STATE JOURNAL
JOHN HART,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) blocks a spike against Michigan on Saturday, Oct.5, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Madison Quest (10) emerges from the locker room before playing Michigan on Saturday, Oct.5, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin right side hitter Addy Horner (2) and Wisconsin middle blocker Natalie Wardlow (12) collide trying to set the ball against Nebraska on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Mimi Colyer (15) extends to hit a ball going out of bounds against Minnesota on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin middle blocker Alicia Andrew (17) and right side hitter Wisconsin setter Charlie Fuerbringer (24) put up a block against Indiana outside hitter Jaidyn Jager (24) in the first set of a match at the UW Field House in Madison, Wis. Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025. AMBER ARNOLD, STATE JOURNAL
AMBER ARNOLD STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin outside hitter Grace Egan (32) lines up a bump after a return by Iowa on Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025 at UW Field House in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin middle blocker Carter Booth (52) reacts after a point against Kansas on Friday, Aug. 29, 2025 at Kohl Center in Madison, Wis.
OWEN ZILIAK,STATE JOURNAL
Wisconsin players, including Wisconsin middle blocker Alicia Andrew, left, and libero/defensive specialist Kristen Simon (7) celebrate the teamÕs win over UNC during a second round NCAA Tournament match between the teams at the Wisconsin Fieldhouse in Madison, Wis. Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. JOHN HART, STATE JOURNAL
U.S. skier Paula Moltzan at the Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Women’s Slalom on Jan. 14 in Austria. Stifel will continue to entitle the U.S. Ski team through ’34 as part of a contract extension. Christophe Pallot/Agence Zoom/Getty Images The investment bank Stifel will announce today that it has extended its sponsorship deal with U.S. Ski & Snowboard through the 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Games, a deal the governing body calls its “most expansive partnership” ever. Officials declined to comment on financial terms, but a source said the total price over the eight-year term — the current contract runs through the ’26 Winter Games — is close to $100M. USSS CEO Sophie Goldschmidt said being able to lock in such a long-term extension a year before the deal expired will lend confidence to other sponsors and the governing body itself.“To be honest, it was one of the easier negotiations I’ve been through, because there was so much value that was obvious on both sides,” Goldschmidt said. “But having said that, given the current state of the economy, you don’t ever want to take anything for granted.”The hallmark of the new deal is a performance bonus program for athletes and coaches, funded fully by Stifel. Athletes will become eligible for the bonuses with crystal globe wins (given to the high-point winners in the world cup circuit) and world championship medals, and coaches can win with Nations Cup victories. More details will be shared with athletes soon, Goldschmidt said.Read More >>>
Jones, who is based in Colorado Springs, will serve as Managing Director at BPI and report to partner Bradley Akubuiro. Mark Jones Veteran sports communications executive Mark Jones will oversee strategy and growth of D.C.-based Bully Pulpit International’s sports practice following the global firm’s acquisition of Jones’ consultancy, Agado Communications. Jones, who is based in Colorado Springs, will serve as Managing Director at BPI and report to partner Bradley Akubuiro.The hire bolsters BPI’s sports offering following its formal rollout last October with the help of outside advisors Mark Patricof and Terrence Burns. The firm’s stated aim is to work with leagues, teams, governing bodies and brands on issues at the intersection of sports, business, culture and public trust. The multi-disciplinary communications firm has 13 offices in the U.S. and Europe. Jones began his career as a legislative assistant in the U.S. Senate before a five-year stint at PR firm Hill & Knowlton. He worked in communications for the USOPC for more than a decade before launching Agado in 2020. He will bring a stable of clients with him to BPI, including the NWSL, USA Cricket and USA Cheer. Previous Agado clients include the IOC and International Cricket Council. BPI has previously represented numerous high-profile sports clients on key issues. The firm advised the PGA Tour following its rocky 2023 announcement of its agreement with the Saudi Public Investment Fund and supported the NCAA’s Division I Transformation Committee. Other BPI sports clients have included the NFL and F1.
Pizza Hut will give away $20,000 worth of pizzas this weekend to activate its new sponsorship of the United Football League. UFL Pizza party weekend Pizza Hut will give away $20,000 worth of pizzas this weekend to activate its new sponsorship of the United Football League, the parties will announce today. Pizza Hut has become the exclusive pizza and wings sponsor of the two-year old spring football league. Terms were not disclosed. It will also be the presenting sponsor of “UFL Fox Friday,” league co-owner Fox Sports’ weekly flagship UFL game broadcast window at 8pm ET.During the four UFL games this weekend, the pizza chain will back the “UFL Pizza Party Weekend delivered by Pizza Hut.” As part of the plan, Pizza Hut will give away 100 $200 gift cards to its stores, to both at-home viewers via online sweepstakes and in-person giveaways to fans at the games in San Antonio, St. Louis, Houston and D.C. (Friday is “national pizza party day,” widely celebrated by pizza sellers.)Josh Cella, the UFL’s EVP/Commercial Operations, said the integration between Fox, UFL and each stadium required to execute the national pizza party is a proof of concept of the league’s single-ownership structure.Read More >>>
