FAYETTEVILLE — Jordan Anthony is not on the University of Arkansas football team’s 2025-26 roster in real life. But in the EA Sports College Football 26 video game, which will hit stores for standard release at 11 a.m. Central on Thursday after early access began Monday for the deluxe edition, Anthony is still a wide […]
FAYETTEVILLE — Jordan Anthony is not on the University of Arkansas football team’s 2025-26 roster in real life. But in the EA Sports College Football 26 video game, which will hit stores for standard release at 11 a.m. Central on Thursday after early access began Monday for the deluxe edition, Anthony is still a wide receiver for the Razorbacks.
Anthony announced in June he would forgo his remaining college eligibility to begin his professional track and field career. A national champion in the 60 and 100 meters and one of three finalists for the prestigious Bowerman award, given annually to the top American collegiate track and field athlete, Anthony is coming off the best track season of his career and was one of the top sprinters in the collegiate ranks this year.
But when the video game was made, Anthony had not yet announced he would no longer be playing football for the Razorbacks.
“I left the announcement ’til after it was announced that (the game) was going to come out, so therefore I could be in the game,” Anthony said. “I knew a lot of people were going to probably riot if I wasn’t in the game, because why wouldn’t I be in the game?”
There were other factors in the timing of Anthony’s announcement, which came the day after the conclusion of the NCAA Outdoor Championships, but remaining in the game is an added bonus, he said.
In the game, Anthony has a speed rating of 99. It is the highest rating a player can achieve, and he is one of four in the new edition with that score. He is joined by LSU receiver Barion Brown, UCLA cornerback Rodrick Pleasant and South Carolina receiver Nyck Harbor.
No college players have had a rating of 100. In Madden NFL, also made by EA, a few NFL players have had a speed rating of 100. Devin Hester did in Madden NFL 08, and DeSean Jackson did in Madden NFL 12.
“My little disappointment that I have with EA Sports and the NCAA is that I’m 99 speed,” Anthony joked. “I should have been 100. We should go (back to) when they used to give one person 100. I should be 100 because, like, who else? Who else is the catch?”
Anthony said he has been playing the new edition of the game and is glad to be part of it for a second season.
“That was all I grew up on was playing video games, playing football games,” he said. “I really don’t play football games anymore, just because I used to do it in real life. Like, I can run fast. I don’t need 99 speed. I can catch. I can do all this in real life. … But ever since NCAA came out, I’ve been playing just NCAA because I’m in the game. Why wouldn’t I play?”
Mapping myths: Researchers create first milky sea database
For centuries, sailors have returned from voyages with tales of eerie, steady-glowing oceans. These episodes would sometimes last for months, atop water capable of glowing in a bucket, deep beneath a ship’s keel. While the earliest accounts were written off as tall tales, the stories are true. Named “milky seas” by the explorers who first […]
For centuries, sailors have returned from voyages with tales of eerie, steady-glowing oceans. These episodes would sometimes last for months, atop water capable of glowing in a bucket, deep beneath a ship’s keel. While the earliest accounts were written off as tall tales, the stories are true.
Named “milky seas” by the explorers who first documented it, the phenomenon is a rare event of marine bioluminescence. A new database created in collaboration between Colorado State University’s department of atmospheric science and the Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere has brought together historical eyewitness accounts for the first time.
“Milky seas describe very large regions of ocean that produce a sustained and widespread glow, often appearing to extend to the horizon on dark, moon-free nights,” CIRA Director and atmospheric science Professor Steven Miller wrote in an email-based interview.
The journal Advancing Earth and Space Sciences recently published an article recounting the database’s development, which drew from 415 individual observations of milky seas over the past 400 years.
“The oldest one that I was able to find goes back to 1615, and it was one of the first-ever voyages of the British East India Company,” said Justin Hudson, a postdoctoral researcher in the department of atmospheric science and the paper’s first author. “So there’s a good chance it’s actually the earliest account ever in English.”
While sorting through the historical accounts, Hudson had to differentiate the individual sightings to make sure each milky sea event was unique, rather than two separate people noting the same event. In the end, the database’s construction was guided by a defined methodology that outlined specific characteristics of a milky sea event.
Every event had to feature “a steady, nonflashing gray/white/green-blue/turquoise glow coming from the nighttime ocean surface,” the paper reads. The event also has to be widespread across the ocean’s horizon and occur within nondisturbed water. A shape line of demarcation must also occur between the glowing and nonglowing water, fade in and out of brightness and have a calm ocean surface. Lastly, the sea must return to normal, dark water once the sun or moon rises.
After categorizing the observations by the database’s criteria, Miller and Hudson were able to estimate both the rate of milky sea occurrences and the general geographic region they occur within.
“Milky seas may occur one to two times per year globally, but they are by no means a regular occurrence and there may be many years between events,” Miller wrote. “Based on historical sightings and, more recently, satellite observations, we know that they tend to form more often in the northwest Indian Ocean and Indonesia.”
Courtesy of Justin Hudson and Steven D. Miller, Earth and Space Science, 2025
While the exact cause of the bioluminescent event is unknown, bacteria is theorized to play a major role in its development.
“Based off of the fact that it’s a consistent, nonflashing light … and it covers such a large area and sort of other various qualities, we think it’s caused by bacteria,” Hudson said. “For the largest event we know of, basically, if it was only a centimeter thick, it would have one mole of bacteria involved. And if you work out how much it could weigh, you get over a million kilograms of bacteria.”
The geographical regions where the events occur most frequently experience weather patterns that result in an environment bacteria thrives in. In the Indian Ocean, the Indian Ocean Dipole causes a fluctuation in sea surface temperatures across the western and eastern sides of the sea, which are categorized by positive, negative and neutral phases.
“It is a sea surface temperature pattern that happens in the Indian Ocean where one side will have cooler sea surface temperatures than normal, and one side will have warmer than normal, and whichever side has warmer temperatures, that’s really good at making (sure) there’s more evaporation, (as) hotter air wants to rise,” Hudson said.
Bacteria thrives in warmer ocean temperatures, which Hudson theorized causes milky seas to occur more frequently in the region the Dipole is most present.
“We think that this phase, the positive phase, in the Indian Ocean Dipole (is) associated with that cool, nutrient-rich water from down below coming up in that region, and it causes milky seas to happen at a much higher rate than you would expect if it didn’t have an impact,” Hudson said.
Miller’s interest in the fabled phenomenon began in 2005 when he published an article in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences discussing the first detection of a milky sea event through satellite imaging technology.
“It was pretty amazing to think that we could do this from space, and especially for a form of bioluminescence that had been more a part of the maritime folklore than of scientific knowledge,” Miller wrote. “Since then, I’ve been hooked on the topic and was excited to work with a new generation of satellite technology that might be even more capable of detecting and measuring milky seas.”
Combined with the newfound knowledge from the database, this satellite technology has allowed the team to chart milky sea occurrences from 2017 that were previously undocumented.
“As part of my work, I do what’s called a Hindcasting model — (a) forecast model, just going backwards,” Hudson said. “I actually was able to predict a previously unknown milky sea event.”
The ultimate goal of the researchers is to predict an event before it occurs with enough time to chart a scientific expedition in the predicted region, with the hopes of observing a milky sea in person, firsthand.
“(We want to) kind of work (with) other scientists internationally, to form a team who would be able to go out there, … get on a boat and sort of combine all their expertise to be able to, like, sample the water, study it and figure out what’s going on (and) how does this fit into everything else?” Hudson said.
Understanding this phenomenon more closely will provide not only more information about the suspected bacteria itself, but also hold broader implications for understanding the ocean’s ecosystem in its entirety.
“(We’re) learning more about how such a dramatic population explosion of nature’s tiniest, simplest and oldest organisms could conspire to form a signal (one) large and strong enough to be (seen) from outer space, and what that is telling us about how major components of the Earth’s system ‘talk to each other’ and interact may hold very important insights to the future of our planet,” Miller wrote.
Reach Katie Fisher at science@collegian.com or on social media @CSUCollegian.
UC San Diego men’s water polo team has revealed their 2025 schedule, entering their third year in the Big West conference. The season kicks off with the Triton Invitational from August 29-31, featuring top-ranked teams. Home games include notable matchups against Stanford and LMU, along with six tournaments and four away games. The Big West […]
UC San Diego men’s water polo team has revealed their 2025 schedule, entering their third year in the Big West conference. The season kicks off with the Triton Invitational from August 29-31, featuring top-ranked teams. Home games include notable matchups against Stanford and LMU, along with six tournaments and four away games. The Big West Championship will take place from November 21-23, offering a chance for the Tritons to qualify for the NCAA National Collegiate Championship in December.
By the Numbers
2024 record: 17 wins, 12 losses
Big West conference victories: 3 against UC Davis, UC Santa Barbara, and Cal State Fullerton
State of Play
Home games will be played at Canyonview Aquatic Center, drawing large crowds, especially during student return week.
The Tritons are the defending champions of the Battle of the Kings against LMU.
What’s Next
As anticipation builds for the season opener and home matches, the Tritons aim to improve upon last year’s performance. The team is also positioned to compete strongly in the Big West Championship and potentially earn an NCAA bid.
Bottom Line
The 2025 season presents a significant opportunity for UC San Diego’s men’s water polo team to build on previous successes and deepen their competitive edge in the Big West, ultimately striving for a berth in the NCAA Championship.
New York Yankees Top Prospect Reportedly Drawing Serious Trade Interest
If the New York Yankees are looking to add in the coming days, they may have to part ways with some of the young talent rising through the ranks of their farm system. The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reported Thursday afternoon that catcher Rafael Flores was one Yankees prospect who has been coveted by […]
If the New York Yankees are looking to add in the coming days, they may have to part ways with some of the young talent rising through the ranks of their farm system.
The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reported Thursday afternoon that catcher Rafael Flores was one Yankees prospect who has been coveted by trade partners. Flores was promoted from Double-A Somerset to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre last Saturday.
Flores hit .287 with 15 home runs, 23 doubles, 48 runs, 56 RBIs, six stolen bases and an .841 OPS across 87 games in Double-A. Through six Triple-A contests, the 24-year-old catcher is batting .208 with one home runs, three runs, three RBIs and a .720 OPS.
MLB Pipeline has Flores ranked as the Yankees’ No. 8 prospect, making him the only catcher in the organization’s top 25.
One Yankee prospect coveted by trade partners: Catcher Rafael Flores, who was just called up to Triple-A
Those two moves could change New York’s plans for the coming days, including their willingness to move Flores. The future of second-year first baseman Ben Rice, who has spent roughly one-seventh of his time at catcher this season, could also play a part in determining Flores’ availability.
The trade deadline is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET on Thursday.
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Venezuelan baseball team denied visas into US, Little League International says – WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports
(AP) — A Venezuelan baseball team was denied visas into the United States and will miss this year’s Senior Baseball World Series, Little League International confirmed Friday. The Cacique Mara team, from Maracaibo, Venezuela, was scheduled to participate in the tournament after winning the Latin American championship in Mexico. “The Cacique Mara Little League team […]
(AP) — A Venezuelan baseball team was denied visas into the United States and will miss this year’s Senior Baseball World Series, Little League International confirmed Friday.
The Cacique Mara team, from Maracaibo, Venezuela, was scheduled to participate in the tournament after winning the Latin American championship in Mexico.
“The Cacique Mara Little League team from Venezuela was unfortunately unable to obtain the appropriate visas to travel to the Senior League Baseball World Series,” Little League International said in a statement, adding that it is “extremely disappointing, especially to these young athletes.”
The Venezuelan team traveled to Colombia two weeks ago to apply for their visas at the U.S. embassy in Bogotá.
The embassy did not immediately respond to an Associated Press request for comment.
“It is a mockery on the part of Little League to keep us here in Bogotá with the hope that our children can fulfill their dreams of participating in a world championship,” the team said in a statement. “What do we do with so much injustice, what do we do with the pain that was caused to our children?”
Venezuela is among a list of countries with restrictions for entering the U.S. or its territories. President Donald Trump has banned travel to the U.S. from 12 other countries, citing national security concerns.
Earlier in the month, the Cuban women’s volleyball team was denied visas to participate in a tournament in Puerto Rico.
“They told us that Venezuela is on a list because Trump says Venezuelans are a threat to the security of his state, of his country,” said Kendrick Gutiérrez, the league’s president in Venezuela. “It hasn’t been easy the situation; we earned the right to represent Latin America in the World Championship.”
The Senior League Baseball World Series, a tournament for players aged 13-16, is played each year in Easley, South Carolina. It begins Saturday.
The tournament organizers replaced the Venezuelans with the Santa Maria de Aguayo team from Tamaulipas, Mexico, the team that was a runner-up in the Latin American championship.
“I think this is the first time this has happened, but it shouldn’t end this way. They’re going to replace us with another team because relations have been severed; it’s not fair,” Gutiérrez added. “I don’t understand why they put Mexico in at the last minute and left Venezuela out.”
Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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Council Corner: Gulfport Ward II Council member Marlene Shaw gives a 90-day progress report regarding the state of the City. Photo courtesy of Marlene Shaw Over the past 90 days, the City of Gulfport has made substantial progress in restoring public facilities, enhancing services, and promoting community engagement. Under the leadership of the City Council, […]
Council Corner: Gulfport Ward II Council member Marlene Shaw gives a 90-day progress report regarding the state of the City. Photo courtesy of Marlene Shaw
Over the past 90 days, the City of Gulfport has made substantial progress in restoring public facilities, enhancing services, and promoting community engagement. Under the leadership of the City Council, Mayor, and City Manager, these efforts reflect a shared commitment to transparency, resiliency, and improving quality of life for all who call Gulfport home.
Community and Infrastructure Accomplishments:
Reopening of Williams Pier
The fully renovated Williams Pier is once again open to the public, restoring a vital waterfront amenity for recreation, fishing, and community gathering.
Replacement of railings Between Williams Pier and the Gulfport Casino
New cable railings along the waterfront promenade have been removed and replaced, improving both safety and the visual appeal of this popular public space.
Stabilization of Roadway Adjacent to the Gulfport Casino
Emergency stabilization of the shoreline roadway near the Casino was completed under a temporary permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, preserving access and safeguarding infrastructure.
Reopening of the Gulfport Recreation Youth Center
The Youth Center has resumed programming and services, offering essential recreational and educational opportunities for local families and youth.
Replenishment of Beach Volleyball Courts
Beach volleyball courts have been restored with fresh sand and surface upgrades, improving play conditions and supporting local sports activity. We are continuing the remaining repairs that include fencing, electric, and light fixtures.
Installation of Temporary Dinghy Dock at the Municipal Marina
A temporary dinghy dock has been installed to expand access for transient boaters and support the city’s thriving boating community.
Marina Recovery and South Basin Restoration in Progress
The Gulfport Marina has been brought close to full operational capacity after hurricane-related repairs. Restoration and permitting efforts for the South Basin are actively underway, ensuring long-term stability and expanded marina services.
Restoration of Hoyt Athletic Fields
The athletic fields at Hoyt Park have been repaired and restored following storm damage, welcoming back the Gulfport Boomerangs softball team and local kickball groups, and reinvigorating community sports programming.
Adoption of No-Smoking Ordinance in Parks and Beaches
A city-wide ordinance now prohibits smoking in designated parks and beaches, supporting a cleaner, healthier, and more family-friendly environment.
Improved Permit Processing in Coordination with FEMA, County, and City Guidelines
The City has worked to improve the efficiency of its permitting processes, helping residents and contractors navigate repairs and rebuilds more quickly while ensuring compliance with FEMA, County, and local standards.
Ongoing Recovery and Strategic Initiatives:
Historic Gulfport Casino Repairs Underway
Due to its protected status, repairs to the historic Gulfport Casino require additional oversight and permitting. The City is actively working to restore this beloved venue while preserving its architectural and cultural heritage.
Engaging Displaced Property Owners
The City is actively encouraging homeowners whose properties were damaged by the storm to return, rebuild, and re-engage with the community. Assistance and permitting support are being provided to streamline the process.
Commitment to Transparency and Open Dialogue
The City Council and Mayor’s Office have prioritized open access and transparent governance, welcoming public input and maintaining an open-door approach to City affairs. Residents are encouraged to engage directly with elected officials and City leadership to share concerns, ask questions, and stay informed on key initiatives.
The City of Gulfport remains committed to building back stronger and smarter. While many challenges remain, the City’s leadership and community spirit continue to drive meaningful progress across all sectors. Together, we are shaping a resilient and vibrant future for Gulfport.
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