www1.btc747.xyz

Farewell to Jurgen Klopp – the manager Liverpool may find it impossible to replace

2024-05-20T00:46:00.001-07:00

FROM ANFIELD – Attempting to strip emotion out of any analysis of Liverpool, a club so defined by it, would be a fool’s errand.

But as much as Kopites’ personal connection with Jurgen Klopp contributed to the special atmosphere of his Anfield farewell on Sunday, the fact the German’s inimitable character has been paired with sporting success is a key part of his appeal.

Klopp has brought every major trophy available to Anfield during his eight-and-a-half years in charge, and it is easy to forget how unthinkable such an achievement looked when he first arrived.

When he succeeded Brendan Rodgers in October 2015, Liverpool were a club that had qualified for the Champions League in just one of the last six seasons.

They were also heading for a 27th year without a league title, while even the most ardent fan would admit that their last major success, the 2005 Champions League win, had been achieved in fluke circumstances.

And yet Klopp ended waits for both trophies to be lifted before adding two League Cups, the FA Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, Community Shield, and the Club World Cup. And that haul of silverware would, of course, have been greater had Liverpool not come up against the greatest team in English football history, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, plus a Real Madrid side that has taken ownership of Europe’s premier competition.

Still, there can be no doubt either way that Klopp has restored the Reds to greatness, leaving behind a club that is in far ruder health than the one he walked into. As the man himself put it in his speech to supporters: “For whatever reason it doesn’t feel like an end, just the start because I saw a football team today full of talent, belief, youth, creativity and desire.

“This club is in a better moment than for a long time. Wonderful stadium, training centre, and you — the fans, a super power of world football. Wow!

“Since today I’m one of you and I will stay a believer 100 per cent. I saw a lot of people crying and that will happen to me but change is good and if you go into that with the right attitude then everything will be fine.”

Klopp was entirely right to make that point on the evidence provided by the matchday squad named for his final game against Wolves. Yes, it featured experienced heads such as Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah, but the contributions of Jarell Quansah, Harvey Elliott and Conor Bradley are proof of the strong foundations in place.

While there are question marks over the contracts of Van Dijk, Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, a return to the Champions League will ease any financial concerns when it comes to striking those deals.

The most optimistic of supporters may even wish to suggest that Liverpool could make short-term gains by moving to a slightly more controlled style of play than the all-out gegenpress seen in recent years.

If there has been one small downside to the later Klopp reign, it is that so many of their recent campaigns – including this one – have been derailed by injuries no doubt tied to the physical nature of the football played.

That said, most would insist that any long-term cost has ultimately been worthwhile given the seasons enjoyed by Liverpool supporters under Klopp, including numerous title challenges and now-habitual deep European runs. And perhaps the memories of those moments will be most decisive in terms of what comes next for Liverpool.

Arne Slot may well be coming into a club primed for further success by his genius predecessor, but the truth is that Klopp’s work may also have marked him out as an impossible act to follow.

READ THE LATEST LIVERPOOL NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/Lfo8IUp
via IFTTT

IndiGo to Launch Direct Flights Between Deoghar and Bengaluru

2024-05-19T20:50:00.001-07:00

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/GqXJUt5
via IFTTT

(15/05/24)
IndiGo has unveiled plans to launch direct
flights between Deoghar and Bengaluru.

Scheduled to take off on 1 June 2024, the airline
will operate the route with thrice weekly flights on Tuesdays,
Thursdays and Saturdays.

Flight 6E 6435 is slated to depart Bengaluru at 10:05
and arrive in Deoghar at 12:25.

From Deoghar, flight 6E 6437 is timed to leave at 12:55,
arriving in Bengaluru at 15:25.

With these new flights, Bengaluru will become the
fifth destination to provide direct connectivity to Deoghar, after
Kolkata, Patna, Ranchi, and Delhi.

IndiGo is currently the only airline operating from Deogarh Airport
(DGH).

IndiGo aircraft. Picture by Steven Howard of TravelNewsAsia.com

“As the first and only airline providing
connectivity to Deoghar, we are pleased to announce direct flights
between Bengaluru and Deoghar,” said Vinay Malhotra, Head of
Global Sales at IndiGo. “This will not only provide customers with
access to the unexplored beauty of Jharkhand’s holy city, but will
also offer enhanced accessibility, increased flight options, and
improved connectivity for students and employment-seekers
travelling across the region. As India’s premier airline, we
remain steadfast in our commitment to deliver an affordable,
punctual, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience.”

Deoghar, located in the Indian state of Jharkhand,
is a city soaked in religious and cultural significance. It is
home to the famous Baidyanath Temple, one of the twelve
Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, which attracts millions of devotees
every year. The city is also known for its natural beauty, with
hills, waterfalls, and forests surrounding it. Deoghar is a
popular destination for those seeking spiritual solace and a
glimpse into India’s rich heritage.

Strengthening access to India’s Silicon Valley,
Bengaluru provides tourists with increased access to
destinations like Cubbon Park, Nandi Hills, Tipu Sultan’s Summer
Palace, Lal Bagh Botanical Gardens, Bengaluru Palace, Ulsoor Lake,
and ISKCON Temple. Bangalore silk, known for its
simplicity, purity and texture, is produced in
Karnataka’s silk farms, which have grown tremendously with the passage of time and the evolution
of the textile industry.

See recent and
exclusive HD video interviews about India:
Uttar Pradesh (India) Tourism –
Interview with ateek Hira, President & CEO of Tornos;
Goa Tourism (India) –
Interview with Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa’s Minister for Tourism;
Madhya Pradesh Tourism (India) – Interview with Sheo Shekhar
Shukla, I.A.S., Principal Secretary Culture & Tourism;

Karnataka Tourism (India) – Interview with H.T. Ratnakar, Adviser
– Tourism and Hospitality, Govt. of Karnataka, India;
and
Rajasthan Tourism (India) – Interview
with Dr. Rashmi Sharma, I.A.S., Director – Department of Tourism,
Government of Rajasthan.

Latest
exclusive video interviews: 16
HD Video Interviews from Routes Europe 2024 in Aarhus, Denmark;
9 HD Video Interviews from Routes Asia 2024 in Langkawi, Malaysia;

Standard to Open Residences in Hua Hin and Phuket, Thailand; Video
Interview with Amar Lalvani, Executive Chairman;
9 Exclusive Video Interviews
from ASEAN Tourism Forum
2024
in Vientiane, Laos;

8 NTO Press Conferences from ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in
Vientiane, Laos;

13 HD Video Interviews from World Travel
Market 2023 in London, England;

5 HD Video Interviews from APG World Connect 2023 in Monaco, France;

15 HD Video Interviews from Routes World 2023 in Istanbul, Türkiye; and

Electric Airport Taxis at Almaty Airport (ALA) in Kazakhstan – HD
Video Interview with CEO.

Headlines:

Singapore Airlines to Establish a Foundation
Plaza Premium to Open City Terminal Lounge in Osaka, Japan
ATR Appoints Andrea Coccetti as CFO and SVP Finance
Pegasus Airlines to Launch Flights Between Ankara and Dublin, Ireland
Hawaiian Airlines Launches Flights Between Honolulu and Salt Lake City
IHG Signs Crowne Plaza Resort in Nepalgunj, Nepal
Minor Hotels Appoints Puneet Dhawan as Head of Asia
Pegasus Airlines Launches Flights Between Istanbul and Bratislava, Slovakia
Amelia Appoints APG as Online GSA in Belgium and Offline GSA in Luxembourg
Queen Elizabeth 2 Hotel in Dubai Appoints Nidal Shbat as Director of Sales
Cross Launches New Hotel Brand
Air Astana Warns Nomad Club FFP Members About Upcoming Upgrade
WTM London 2024 Opens Call for Papers
IndiGo to Launch Direct Flights Between Deoghar and Bengaluru
Travel and Tourism Industry Deal Activity Down 13.5%
Thai AirAsia Reports Q1 2024 Results
Greg Gubiani Joins World’s Best Airport Hotel as GM
Passenger Security Charge at Hong Kong Airport to Increase in Phases
Hotel Management Japan to Upgrade Distribution with SynXis and Channel Connect
Trials on Use of Renewable Diesel for Airside Vehicles at Singapore Changi Airport
IHG to Expand Hotel Indigo and Vignette Collection Brands to Vietnam
Pegasus Airlines to Launch Flights Between Istanbul and Edinburgh, Scotland
Philippines and Singapore Agree to Significantly Improve Air Connectivity
Lokesh Kumar Joins Minor Hotels as Vice President of Development – Middle East
Norse Atlantic Reports Strong Passenger Numbers for April 2024
Hong Kong to Host Routes World 2025
Emirates to Refurbish 71 More A380 and B777 Aircraft
Yotel Partners Frasers Hospitality for First Hotel in Japan
British Airways Holidays Reveals Results from 2024 Travel Trends Report
Hangzhou ZhongWei Goethe Hotel Joins WorldHotels
Four Seasons Signs New-Build Luxury Hotel in Madinah, Saudi Arabia
Etihad Airways Offers Free Hotel Stays in Abu Dhabi Stopover Promotion
Shell Sells Energy and Chemicals Park in Singapore
SWISS Launches Flights Between Zurich and Seoul, South Korea
Marriott Opens First AC Hotel in Southwest China
High-Speed Fun in Denmark! HD Video Interview with Aarhus Sea Rangers
Dusit Signs First All-Inclusive Hotel
Scoot’s First E190-E2 Enters Commercial Service with Flight to Krabi, Thailand
Pjey Mayandi Appointed GM of M Social Phuket Hotel in Thailand
Accor Takes Over Management of Hotel in Brisbane, Australia
16 Exclusive HD Video Interviews from Routes Europe 2024 in Aarhus, Denmark
IndiGo to Double Number of Flights Between Delhi and Phuket, Thailand
Marasca’s Second Hotel in Thailand to Open on Koh Samui in July
Over 400 Exhibitors Expected at ITB India 2024 in September
AirAsia Launches Flights Between Kuala Lumpur and Ahmedabad, India
Korean Air to Launch Direct Flights Between Seoul Incheon and Portugal
Marriott’s 150th Hotel in India is a Vegetarian Resort in Katra
Plaza Premium Expands Flight Club at Kuala Lumpur Airport with Restaurant in T1
Aviation: International RPK Increases 18.9% Globally; Asia Pacific Airlines +38.5%
Brunei Orders Six H145M Helicopters to Replace BO105s
Singapore-Based Lessor Orders 10 ATR 72-600s
AirAsia’s Seventh Airline Launches Flights
Pattaya Airways Takes Delivery of First of Two ATR Freighters
Minor Hotels Opens Office in Bengaluru; Targets 50 Hotel Openings in India Within Decade
Marriott Opens Eighth Sheraton Hotel in Vietnam
IHG Signs Hotel in The Forestias Mixed-Use Development Near Bangkok, Thailand
Association of Asia Pacific Airlines Reports March 2024 Traffic Numbers
Hong Kong Airlines Resumes Saipan Flights
Sabre Becomes First GDS to Provide NDC Content Through Zeno
FCM Appoints Siddharth Mehta as Vice President of Supply for India
Hong Kong Airlines Launches Flights to Vientiane, Laos
Air Astana to Resume Flights Between Astana and Seoul, South Korea
Airbus Expands Pléiades Neo Earth Observation Constellation with New Programme
ASM Global to Operate ICC Sydney for 10 More Years
SAS Signs Alliance Adherence Agreement with SkyTeam
OUE Awarded Tender for 255-Room Zero-Energy Hotel at Changi Airport, Singapore
Korean Air to Launch Seoul Incheon – Macau Flights
John Girard Joins Plaza Premium as General Manager Operations – Hong Kong
IndiGo to Order 30 A350-900s Powered by 60 Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-84s
Sabre Expands Lodging, Ground & Sea Team
Lodz Airport (LCJ) Central Poland – Interview with Robert Makowski, Commercial Director (CCO)
Greenland Airports – Interview with Jens R. Lauridsen, CEO
Glasgow (GLA), Southampton (SOU) and Aberdeen Airports (ABZ) – Interview with Christopher Tibbett, Aviation Director
Visit Aarhus – Interview with Pia Lange Christensen, CEO
Aarhus Airport (AAR) in Denmark – Interview with Lotta Sandsgaard, CEO
Visit Estonia – Interview with Kristina Kästik, B2B Team Lead, at Routes Europe 2024
Airsiders – Interview with Antonio Pascale, Commercial Director, at Routes Europe 2024
PDC Airport Solutions – Interview with Flemming Glyager at Routes Europe 2024 in Aarhus, Denmark
Hannover Airport (HAJ) – Interview with Prof. Dr. Martin Roll, CEO
Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) – Interview with Michiel Parent, Commercial Director
London Southend Airport (SEN) – Interview with Marc Watkins, RDM
Tallinn Airport (TLL) in Estonia – Interview with Eero Pärgmäe Board Member and CCO
Isle of Man Airport (IOM) – Interview with Gary Cobb, Airport Director
Visit Isle of Man – Interview with Deborah Heather, CEO, at Routes Europe 2024
OAG – Interview with Chelsea Waller at Routes Europe 2024 in Aarhus, Denmark
IHG Signs Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dehradun, India
Air Astana and Neos Sign MOU on Strategic Partnership
Fiji Airways to Use Assaia’s TurnaroundControl Solution
AirX Signs LOI with Eve For Up To 50 eVTOL Aircraft
Executive Changes as bp Simplifies Organisational Structure
Thai AirAsia to Launch Daily Flights Between Suvarnabhumi and Hat Yai
Lufthansa’s Brand New Long-Haul Allegris Cabin to Enter Service on 1 May
Bangkok Airways Extends Partnership with Sabre
IHG Expanding Garner Hotels Midscale Conversion Brand to More Countries
CWT Expands Access to Finnair NDC Content in Finland and the Nordics
Tourism Malaysia Extends Data and Market Intelligence Agreement with Travelport
Rajiv Bhatia Joins Sabre as Executive Director – Asia Pacific Market Expansion
Copenhagen Home to First Fairfield by Marriott Hotel in Europe
Hawaiian Airlines’ New Flagship Aircraft Enters Service
Travelodge Opens Fourth Hotel in Seoul, South Korea
Sabre Partners South Korean OTA, InterparkTriple
British Airways Upgrading Weather Data Available to Pilots and Flight Planning Teams
Air Astana Increases Flights and Resumes Services to Select Destinations
Jean-Marie Le Gall Appointed General Manager of The Woodward Hotel in Geneva, Switzerland
IHG Signs Second Kimpton Hotel in Portugal
Scoot Takes Delivery of First of Nine E190-E2 Aircraft from Azorra
Finnair Updates Summer 2025 Flight Schedule
Delta Air Lines Launches Thrice Weekly Munich – New York JFK Flights
Japan Coast Guard to Expand Fleet with Three Airbus H225 Helicopters
EL AL to Implement NetLine/Ops ++
Sabre to Upgrade Japanese Hotel Company’s Distribution and Retailing Strategy
Air Astana Upgrades Safety Training with CEET and RFFT Simulators in Astana, Kazakhstan
Dean Dimitriou Returns to The Murray Hong Kong as Hotel General Manager
ASM Global Appoints Matthew Lazarus-Hall as EVP Entertainment & Content
Thai Lion Air Launches Bangkok – Kochi Flights; Appoints Çelebi as Ground Handler
Onyx Hospitality Signs Shama Serviced Apartments in Rayong, Thailand
AirAsia X to Resume Flights Between Kuala Lumpur and Changsha, China
IndiGo to Launch Kozhikode – Kochi – Agatti Flights
Neste Supplying Emirates with SAF at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport; Changi Next
Amadeus Completes Acquisition of Vision-Box
AirJapan Enhances Operations with Radixx PSS
New Zealand Men and Women Win Final Sevens Tournament at Hong Kong Stadium
Korean Air to Operate Seasonal Charter Flights Between Seoul Incheon and Taichung, Taiwan
Pegasus Airlines Launches Flights Between Ankara and Lisbon, Portugal
Smiths Detection Appoints Jerome de Chassey as President
AirAsia X Resumes Flights Between Kuala Lumpur and Xi’an, China
Cathay Cargo Resumes Freighter Flights from Saigon, Vietnam
SITA Publishes White Paper on Role of Biometrics in Air Travel
Cheval Collection Expands Global Hotel Alliance’s Portfolio to Serviced Apartments
Langham Rebrands Hotel in Foshan, China
Aviation: International Passenger Demand Up 26.3%; Asia Pacific Airlines Report 53.2% Increase
International Air Cargo Demand Up 12.4% in February 2024; Capacity Up 16%
L’Occitane Group Appoints Green Yip as Regional MD – Travel Retail Asia Pacific
Le Bristol Paris Appoints Arnaud Faye as Executive Chef
Chris Kemlo Appointed General Manager of The Calile Hotel in Brisbane, Australia
Sabre Space Roadshow to Take Place in Delhi and Mumbai, India
Malaysia Airlines and IndiGo to Codeshare
Accor Expands Portfolio with 22 Hotels in Japan
Hong Kong Airlines Resumes Flights to Kagoshima, Japan
FlyArystan Receives AOC from Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan
Marriott Opens Resort on Perhentian Keci Island in Terengganu, Malaysia
AirAsia Malaysia Resumes Kuching – Penang and Kota Kinabalu – Penang Flights
Hong Kong Stadium Prepares for Final Sevens; International Fans Buy Over 40% of Tickets
ExecuJet Opens New MRO Facility at Subang Airport Near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Michelle Freyre to Join United Airlines’ Board of Directors
Lloyd’s Inn Kuala Lumpur to Open 1 April
Korean Air Unveils New Maintenance, Aerospace, Cargo and Ground Handling Uniforms
Nine Exclusive HD Video Interviews from Routes Asia 2024 in Langkawi, Malaysia
9 Exclusive Video Interviews with VIPs at ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane, Laos
8 NTO Press Conferences from the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2024 in Vientiane, Laos
13 Exclusive HD Video Interviews from World Travel Market 2023 in London, England
5 Exclusive HD Video Interviews from APG World Connect 2023 in Monaco, France
15 Exclusive HD Video Interviews from Routes World 2023 in Istanbul, Türkiye
Electric Airport Taxis at Almaty Airport in Kazakhstan – Video Interview with Co-Founder
Pictures from Miss International Queen 2023 Transgender Beauty Pageant in Pattaya, Thailand
Exclusive Video Interviews with 17 Miss International Queen 2023 Contestants
Living With One Eye – Six Years On by Steven Howard
HD Videos and Interviews
Podcasts from HD Video Interviews
RSS Feed – Travel Industry News
Ticker – Travel Industry News
Travel Industry News Archives
Travel Trade Shows
High-Res Picture Galleries
Travel News Asia – Latest Travel Industry News

Today’s WNBA Legends Are Shifting Sneaker Culture | SLAM

2024-05-19T17:46:00.001-07:00

The WNBA has long since been filled with stars, and if we’re being completely real, these women could have been selling units in the sneaker space for years. Player Exclusive kicks on the court were cool, but not as accessible for the everyday fan like a signature shoe was.

So the brands adapted. With an impeccable roster headlined by Sue Bird, Diana Taurasi and Jewell Loyd, Nike began releasing their player’s exclusive colorways to the public.

Bird and Loyd, each known for their affinity with Kyrie Irving’s former Nike signature shoes, received a number of colorways in the marketplace, with Bird headlining the “Keep Sue Fresh” collection that spanned from the Kyrie 4 Low to the Kyrie Infinity.

Out in Phoenix, DT began repping ‘Bron’s signature series, from the LeBron 9 and LeBron X to the LeBron 19—she even had compiled an extensive Mercury-colored collection of LeBron PEs, including the LeBron 18 “La Cabra”—which translates to the GOAT in Spanish.

In Washington, six-time All-Star Elena Delle Donne was paying homage with her PE rotation, dawning a Swoopes I-inspired colorway of the Nike Hyperdunk 2017 alongside a steady influx of KD 12s. But at the tail end of the 2019 season, Delle Donne flipped the script, electing to wear a lace-less model, the Nike Air Zoom UNVRS. Constructed around the brand’s newest technology, Flyease provided wearers with a hands-free, easy-access design geared toward those with disabilities. The latter would serve as a three year-long smoke signal of what was to come.

In October of 2022, Nike and Elena Delle Donne officially released the Nike Air Deldon. While the high-top model wasn’t specifically marketed as a signature offering, the silhouette was as close to one as you could get. Built with Flyease technology at its foundation, the Air Deldon was inspired by the two-time MVP’s younger sister Lizzie, who is disabled. The model represented several aspects of Delle Donne’s personal journey, detailing her battle with Lyme disease on one colorway while joining Nike’s BE TRUE initiative that heralds the LGBTQIA+ community with a rainbow-treated installment.

Then there’s Sabrina Ionescu. Before the legend of Caitlin Clark arose, Ionescu captivated the nation in college—breaking national and school records at the University of Oregon with a flashy play style and an unstoppable pull-up three.

While standing on the shoulders of the legends that came before her, Nike announced Ionescu would be the eighth women’s signature athlete in Nike Basketball history. After 17 years, The Swoosh had returned in full to the women’s game and they flooded Sabrina’s business with support. An expansive marketing campaign, a full release schedule featuring more than a dozen colorways, a full unisex apparel collection and intricate storytelling that ran throughout the model.

Touted as the first-ever unisex signature basketball shoe, the Nike Sabrina 1 sold out the first handful of colorways during the late summer. Then it took things to another level when the model was added to Nike’s customizable Nike By You platform. With layers of detailed fabrics, stitching and panels, the Sabrina 1 brought out the platforms’ full potential, allowing fans of the already praised silhouette to create their own 1-of-1 versions.

Custom Nike Sabrina 1s engulfed social media in the following months, with creators drawing inspiration from their favorite colorways of past signature models like the “Bruce Lee” Kobe 5. Some designs even stuck and were replicated at mass, like the titular rendition dubbed the “What The” colorway—inspired by Nike Basketball’s mid-2010s run of taking every colorway from one signature shoe and compiling it into one loud, expressive and surprisingly cohesive ensemble.

From the W and the NBA to men’s and women’s college basketball and the G-League, the Nike Sabrina 1 exploded in popularity. As soon as the 2023-24 season tipped, the low-top model quickly became a go-to for many Nike-endorsed NBA players with Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, Tyler Herro and others customizing their own PEs at a frantic pace.

DaQuan Jeffries’ Nike Sabrina 1 PE

Anfernee Simons’ Nike Sabrina 1 PE

Cam Johnson’s Nike Sabrina 1 PE

Jrue Holiday’s Nike Sabrina 1 PE

This time around, Sabrina’s sneaker won’t be a one-and-done: she confirmed during this year’s New York Liberty training camp that her second signature is currently in the works.

And then there’s the long awaited announcement of the Nike A’One. As the first Black woman to receive a signature shoe with the brand since Sheryl Swoopes, A’ja Wilson continues to cement her legacy as not only a great, but a player deserving of the utmost recognition and respect. After headlining the Nike Cosmic Unity last season and dawning a regal black and gold LeBron 21 PE during the 2023 Finals, two-time WNBA Champion and New York Times Best-Selling Author A’ja Wilson has been positioned for an insanely bright future, and arrival of the A’One in the Spring of 2025 was met with top-tier marketing: Wilson posted a flick of herself wearing an iconic hoodie that read, Of Course I Have a Shoe Dot Com with the caption: “The answer to the question.” It was just as iconic as Wilson and her illustrious career.

Wilson and Nike aren’t just only releasing a signature sneaker though—the two-time WNBA champion and MVP has been working for over a year now on a full apparel collection and signature slides, too. She’s been heavily involved in each step of the process, consistently checking in with the brand and going as far as to suggest satin-lined hoods so women wouldn’t have to wear a bonnet during travel days.

As for other stars, in the summer of 2021, Jordan Brand announced the largest women’s roster in the brand’s history, signing Dearica Hamby, Satou Sabally, Jordin Canada, Aerial Powers, Te’a Cooper, Crystal Dangerfield, Arella Guirantes and Chelsea Dungee. Joining an established core of Kia Nurse and Asia Durr, the Jumpman went out and put pen to paper with Rhyne Howard, Dana Evans, Isabelle Harrison and Gabby Williams over the next year and a half.

Picking up the legacy of the since-retired Moore, Jordan’s revamped athlete roster has brought a fresh perspective to the brand’s once-reserved approach to the ladies’ side of the game. Player Exclusive colorways have flooded WNBA hardwoods as a result. Kia Nurse’s Toronto Raptors-treated Tatum 1, Satou Sabally’s international-inspired Air Jordan 37 and Isabelle Harrison’s butterfly-coated Jordan Luka 2—in homage to her late sister—have each extrapolated a piece of the respective athletes’ journeys. In turn, sneaker blogs and team social media accounts have begun to add another element of storytelling to the WNBA’s atmosphere.

Even though signature silhouettes and exclusive colorways continue to draw headlines, both Nike and Jordan have been cultivating their next generation of partners in the backdrop through the new possibilities presented by NIL. Mirroring the selectivity of their signature lineup, Nike has signed reigning National Freshman of the Year Juju Watkins, former AP Player of the Year Paige Bueckers and top high school sophomore Jerzy Williams to NIL deals.

In the same realm, Jordan Brand has signed Rutgers-bound guard Kiyomi McMiller, LSU’s SEC Freshman of the Year Mikaylah Williams and UCLA point guard Kiki Rice.

While it’s yet to be officially announced, Caitlin Clark has reportedly signed an endorsement deal with The Swoosh as well. Clark was one of the brand’s first NIL signings before her senior year at Iowa.

This is just the beginning, and with investment, attention to detail, and unwavering support for women’s basketball, the renaissance continues.

Feeling nostalgic? Here’s a history lesson on how past WNBA legends paved the way in the sneaker game.

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/fmQeoEc
via IFTTT

Diddy apologises after video shows attack on ex-girlfriend

2024-05-19T15:50:00.001-07:00

The rapper says he’s sorry for his “disgusting behaviour” in a statement on social media.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/UA7fG0P
via IFTTT

5/18: CBS Weekend News – CBS News

2024-05-19T01:50:00.001-07:00

Watch CBS News

Biden travels to Georgia ahead of Morehouse commencement address; Anchovies behind surge of sea lions in San Francisco

Source link

The post 5/18: CBS Weekend News – CBS News appeared first on World Online.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/q5EMRJC
via IFTTT

The mystery of the man embroiled in a billion dollar gold scam

2024-05-18T20:50:00.001-07:00

Six weeks after de Guzman’s death, the Busang gold dream was over for everyone, leaving investors in despair.

Bre-X Minerals’ C$6bn valuation had been reduced to nothing.

An independent report would confirm there was no gold at all at the Busang site. Rock samples dating from 1995 to 1997 were analysed and found to have been tampered with through a process called salting. Fragments of gold from another source had been sprinkled among rock samples via a saltshaker to falsify results.

Almost 30 years later, no-one has ever been held accountable for the scam.

Walsh maintained he knew nothing about it and died of a stroke in 1998. In 2007, a Canadian judge ruled that Felderhof had been unaware of the swindle and found him not guilty of insider trading. The Dutch geologist died in 2019.

That brings us back to de Guzman. Had he taken his own life to avoid having to reveal that he had been the mastermind of the deceit?

His suicide notes raise concerns, says Wilton.

For the podcast, a cousin, once removed, of Felderhof – Suzanne Felderhof – says he had expressed doubt over whether de Guzman could ever have written them.

The notes mention physical ailments which, she says, her relative had never heard him complain about.

Wilton says another suicide note was written to a Bre-X Minerals finance manager who de Guzman didn’t actually know. In it, one of de Guzman’s wives’ names had been spelt incorrectly.

Dr Benito Molino was a member of the Filipino investigative team hired by de Guzman’s family to examine the evidence once the autopsy reports had been released.

In the photographs of the body found in the jungle, Molino says he saw bruises on the neck and concluded de Guzman had died by strangulation.

“When he was dead, he must have been thrown out of the chopper in the jungle to make it appear he committed suicide,” Molino tells the podcast.

“In big crimes, there will always be a fall guy, so we don’t believe that the real mastermind will be identified.”

Or was the body even that of de Guzman?

Based on initial descriptions, it would appear the individual had been dead for longer than four days – the time it took for the body to be discovered – says forensic anthropologist, Dr Richard Taduran, who worked with Molino.

De Guzman’s wife Genie also says the teeth were intact on the body that was found, and yet her husband had false teeth. De Guzman’s dental records have never been released by his family, says Wilton.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/c7PZhHo
via IFTTT

Player ratings as Leo Campana bags stoppage-time winner for the Herons

2024-05-18T20:46:00.001-07:00

Inter Miami returned to winning ways Saturday night thanks to second-half substitute Leo Campana’s stoppage-time strike to seal a 1-0 triumph over DC United.

Lionel Messi returned to the mix after sitting out during the Herons’ midweek draw vs in-state rivals Orlando City due to a knee problem. With Messi back in the side, Miami were eager to get things going under the lights in south Florida to extend their stay atop the Supporters’ Shield standings.

The two Eastern Conference clubs got things going after a near 30-minute weather delay. However, the rain started to come down in the first half with both teams struggling to put together any meaningful attacking sequences and chances.

Neither team were able to find the breakthrough in the first 45, even with the heavy rainfull subsiding near the end of the half. Before Guido Gonzalez blew his whistle to signal halftime, Benjamin Cremaschi was through on goal with a glorious one-on-one chance against DC’s Alex Bono — who stood tall to deny the young midfielder and keep the score level at 0-0.

Both sides managed to conjure up a few half-chances after the break, but everything was pointing to another draw for Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino’s side. That is, until Matias Rojas made way for Leo Campana.

The back-up striker found the back of the net to put his side in front just moments after entering the match. Sergio Busquets spotted the Ecuador international’s run and played a sublime over-the-top through ball right into his path. Campana made no mistake in front of goal, sending a strike into the far corner that rattled off the crossbar and into the goal.

Miami remain in first place in the Supporters’ Shield race with 31 points collected from 15 matches played, while DC fell to ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings after suffering defeat for the fifth time this season.

Messi returned to action for Miami / Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

GK: Drake Callender – 7/10 – Wasn’t called to action much as his backline limited DC’s attempts at goal. He did come up clutch with a massive save late on to keep the clean sheet intact.

RB: Marcelo Weigandt – 7/10 – Linked up well with his teammates down the right-hand side without being too exposed on the back-end.

CB: Tomas Aviles – 6/10 – Struggled with Benteke’s physicality but kept the former Liverpool striker at bay for the most part.

CB: Nicolas Freire – 6/10 – Displayed sound anticipation with a few key interceptions to snuff out any potential threats from the visitors.

LB: Jordi Alba – 7/10 – Found himself in favorable positions going forward in his first start in over a month but his delivery could’ve been better.

CM: Julian Gressel – 6/10 – A quiet showing from the versatile figure who didn’t really get the chance to display his exceptional delivery.

CM: Sergio Busquets – 8/10 – Confident and clam when in possession to lead the Herons’ midfield. He capped off a brilliant display with a stunning lofted through ball into Campana’s path.

CM: Benjamin Cremaschi – 6/10 – Not as involved with the attack like we’ve seen from him before yet he pitched in on the defensive end before being taken off early in the second half.

RW: Lionel Messi – 7/10 – His movement and passing was on point as he roamed free in the final third. However, he was dispossessed several times — which is something we don’t see too often from the Argentine legend.

ST: Luis Suarez – 6/10 – Found chances in front of goal hard to come by due to the lack of service.

LW: Matias Rojas – 6/10 – A little bit off the pace in the first half but improved as the match wore on.

Substitutes

SUB: Robert Taylor (57′ for Cremaschi) – 6/10

SUB: Serhiy Kryvtsonv (66′ for Freire) – 6/10

SUB: David Ruiz (82′ for Gressel) – N/A

SUB: Leo Campana (93′ for Rojas) – 7/10

Manager

Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino – 5/10 – After Miami settled for the midweek draw against Orlando City, you kind of expected them to come out with a bit more purpose at home — especially with Messi back in the lineup. However, the Herons managed to find a way in the end and get back in the win column.

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/zYjg7QF
via IFTTT

Germany Covers Mouth At World Cup After Armband Ban

2024-05-18T15:50:00.001-07:00

Ahead of their game against Japan at the World Cup in Qatar on Wednesday, players from Team Germany assembled on the pitch and covered their mouths in an act of protest.

The players were upset that soccer governing body FIFA had earlier stopped captains from several European teams from wearing armbands in support of the LGBTQ community.

“We wanted to use our captain’s armband to take a stand for values that we hold in the Germany national team: diversity and mutual respect. Together with other nations, we wanted our voice to be heard,” the team said in a statement posted to their official Twitter account.

“It wasn’t about making a political statement – human rights are non-negotiable. That should be taken for granted, but it still isn’t the case. That’s why this message is so important to us,” the team said. “Denying us the armband is the same as denying us a voice. We stand by our position.”

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/K7R6Gcy
via IFTTT

Estevao sends message to Chelsea after latest scouting trip

2024-05-17T23:46:00.001-07:00

Palmeiras winger Estevao Willian has admitted he is “really happy” to know Chelsea officials are watching him play, with the Blues still in talks over a blockbuster deal.

Chelsea have struck an agreement over personal terms with the 17-year-old, known more commonly by the ‘Messinho’ nickname he does not like, and are chasing a deal worth close to £60m with Palmeiras.

Blues officials were in the stands on Wednesday to watch Estevao in action against Independiente del Valle and fellow 17-year-old Kendry Paez, who will make his own move to Stamford Bridge next summer.

Asked about his feelings towards Chelsea’s interest after the game, Estevao told ESPN: “Man, I’m really happy. I think they are watching because of what I’m doing with Palmeiras.

“Today, my mind is 100% Palmeiras, and I’m trying to help Palmeiras as much as possible on the pitch. [Chelsea’s interest] is a consequence of that. God willing, he’s blessing me.”

Estevao’s Palmeiras contract includes a release clause of £47m, which would need to be paid immediately, but Chelsea are negotiating a deal which would see them pay a higher fee on more favourable payment terms.

Estevao was watched by Chelsea officials / Alexandre Schneider/GettyImages

Reports suggest Chelsea will look to pay an initial £27m, with a further £21m in add-ons, as well as covering taxes which would take the cost of any deal up towards the £60m mark.

Bayern Munich were recently touted as potential rivals to Chelsea’s pursuit of Estevao but the German side are not expected to chase such a deal.

Barcelona are known admirers of Estevao, who has openly named the Catalan outfit as his dream transfer, but their well-known financial issues will prevent them from offering any competition in the race for the teenager’s signature.

READ THE LATEST CHELSEA NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/EaRmbwv
via IFTTT

China Protests COVID Lockdowns After Xinjiang Fire

2024-05-17T19:50:00.001-07:00

Protests are continuing in China against strict COVID lockdown restrictions after a deadly apartment fire brought some people closer to a breaking point.

Across the country, demonstrators took to the streets — a mass movement that is rare in China — and defied laws designed to curb the spread of COVID-19. Some appeared with sheets of blank white paper, in place of traditional protest signs, as a criticism of the censorship limiting citizens from speaking freely.

After the fire in Xinjiang that left at least 10 people dead, which critics say was due to the stay-at-home measures that resulted in the building’s doors being locked, protests intensified Sunday. In major cities like Shanghai, protestors gathered to demand the end of the country’s ruling party and the resignation of the president. In clips circulating social media, some demonstrators can be heard repeatedly chanting, “Communist Party step down, Xi Jinping step down.”

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/4jhiEWN
via IFTTT

The Powerful Storytelling Behind Alissa Pili’s 2024 WNBA Draft Look

2024-05-17T16:46:00.001-07:00

With the start of the 2024 WNBA season underway, this year’s incoming rookie class is garnering tons of attention, not just for their serious game, but their off-court ventures—and personal style—too. Minnesota Lynx rookie Alissa Pili is one of the many highly anticipated young talents many will be following this season, and yet, the 6-2 forward’s impact has always gone beyond the box score: Pili, who is Samoan and Iñupiaq, a group of Indigenous Alaskans, is currently tied with Ruthy Hebard as the highest draft picks by an Alaskan, having gone 8th overall (Hebard was drafted by the Sky in 2020).

As a new pro, the former Utah star has continued to put her community, and heritage, at the forefront. From her very first arrival to the W—draft night, which was held back in April— Pili wore an elegant, custom gown from the brand AUTHMADE STADIUM, which was founded by Jason Vu in 2017. The brand has continued to redefine the intersection of fashion apparel and sports, and has created custom pieces for high-profile clients across hoops and entertainment, including Bad Bunny, Jayson Tatum and collaborations with NBA teams like the Sacramento Kings and Brooklyn Nets.

AUTHMADE STADIUM primarily focuses on streetwear, making the creation of the gown a first for Vu. And yet, he’s not one to shy away from a challenge, especially not one that includes weaving together elements of storytelling, purpose, and celebrating AAPI communities, into his work. Vu started the process by getting to know Pili personally through texts, Zoom sessions, and sharing inspiration pics and sketches, all while hearing more about her story and her connection to her roots.

“Being a Vietnamese immigrant of AAPI descent and just being in an industry where more representation is needed as a designer, I think the story compels me,” Vu told WSLAM.

For the draft, Pili specifically wanted to wear a piece that represented who she was and where she came from, and Vu’s attention to detail is what was key in creating a look that complimented Pili’s personal style.

“Having that tribal print incorporated into the look was something that was extremely important to Alissa. She also wanted to showcase her tribal tattoos that are on both her right leg and left shoulder so incorporating a slit and drop shoulder into the look helped compliment her body and accentuate her tattoos,” he says.

For Pili, the final product was perfect: “My dress for the WNBA draft was a representation of my Polynesian culture,” Pili says. “I wanted to incorporate where I come from, with pride, and designer Jason Vu did an amazing job taking my vision and creating a beautiful masterpiece.”

Her draft night look was also the perfect introduction for W fans to get to know the rookie on a deeper level, all while paying homage to her community, family and upbringing. When asked what was most fulfilling, Vu echoes that exact sentiment. “[It was fulfilling] to be able to make a dress that not only she was proud of, but her family, her community in Alaska, and, the whole Polynesian community that follows her,” he says.

For AUTHMADE STADIUM, this is just the beginning. The brand just launched a new collection in collaboration with the WNBA and the NBA, “So I Can Dream.”

Photo credit: On Time Agency & Minnesota Lynx, Jake Sorian.

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/YDGbclg
via IFTTT

Israel Recovers the Bodies of Three Hostages Taken on Oct. 7: Latest Updates

2024-05-17T14:50:00.001-07:00

Israeli forces have recovered the bodies of three Israeli hostages who were taken captive as they fled a music festival during the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, the Israeli military announced on Friday.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, the Israeli military spokesman, identified the bodies as those of Amit Buskila, Shani Louk and Yitzhak Gelernter. He said Israeli troops had recovered the bodies during an operation in Gaza on Thursday night, but did not say where they were found.

All three had attended the Tribe of Nova trance music festival on Oct. 7, where at least 360 people were killed, Admiral Hagari said. During the attack, they fled the festival and headed toward Mefalsim, a kibbutz in southern Israel. Palestinian militants found them there, killed them and brought their corpses back to Gaza, Admiral Hagari said.

This combination of photos, provided by Hostages Families Forum Headquarters, shows Yitzhak Gelernter, Shani Louk and Amit Buskila.Credit…Hostages Families Forum Headquarters, via Associated Press

The recovery of the remains highlighted the growing anxiety among relatives of hostages over how many of their loves ones are still alive after seven months of war in Gaza. A growing number of Israelis have criticized the Netanyahu government for doing too little to reach a deal with Hamas to secure the release of the remaining captives.

Roughly 125 living and dead hostages abducted on Oct. 7 remain in Gaza, including several U.S. citizens, according to the Israeli authorities. Israel and Hamas have held indirect negotiations in an attempt to reach a deal that would free at least some hostages in exchange for a cease-fire.

In Washington on Friday, John F. Kirby, a White House spokesman, said there was no new information about the well being or whereabouts of the handful of Americans who were taken on Oct. 7.

Ms. Louk, a 23-year-old German-Israeli citizen, became a symbol of the brutality of the devastating attack. Shortly after Oct. 7, Hamas released a video of a woman lying face down, mostly naked, in the back of a pickup truck in Gaza. Based on the dreadlocks and tattoos, Ms. Louk’s mother said she believed it was her daughter.

In late October, Ms. Louk’s family said the Israeli authorities had confirmed she had been killed. Olaf Scholz, the German chancellor, publicly mourned her death, saying at the time that it “shows the full barbarity behind the Hamas attack — who must be held accountable.”

Ms. Buskila, who was 27 when she was abducted, called her family on the morning of the attack, whispering to them that she was “surrounded by terrorists,” her uncle, Shimon Atiyas, told Israeli television in late October. “She told me: ‘Shimon, I’m dying, I love you.’ After that, we didn’t get any information about her fate.”

Mr. Gelernter, who went by the nickname Itzik, was a resident of central Israel who was 56 on Oct. 7. His son, Asaf, described him in an interview with Israeli news media in February as a devoted father and grandfather who was widely beloved. “He was young at heart,” Asaf Gelernter said. He added, “He enjoyed life, he loved life.”

In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel mourned the “terrible loss” of the three hostages. “We will return all of our hostages, the living and the deceased alike,” Mr. Netanyahu said.

A senior Hamas official, Izzat Al-Rishq, declined to confirm whether the hostages had indeed been recovered by Israel, but said on the Telegram messaging app, “Without an exchange that dignifies our people and our resistance, the enemy will only receive its prisoners as lifeless corpses.”

Israeli soldiers and intelligence officers recovered the bodies of the hostages during a mission based on intelligence obtained from interrogating detained Palestinian militants, the Israeli military said in a statement.

For months, Israel and Hamas have been negotiating indirectly through mediators over a cease-fire deal that would secure the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel. In late November, 105 hostages were freed during a weeklong truce between the two sides.

Just two weeks ago, officials familiar with the talks voiced hope that a deal could be reached soon. But the negotiations have stalled, and the two sides remain far apart on key issues, including Israel’s insistence that it still plans to carry out a massive assault on the southern city of Rafah.

“The return of their bodies is a painful and stark reminder that we must swiftly bring back all our brothers and sisters from their cruel captivity — the living for rehabilitation, and the murdered to a proper burial,” said the Hostage Families Forum Headquarters, a group representing many relatives of those held captive.

Katie Rogers contributed from Washington.

A correction was made on

May 17, 2024

Because of an editing error, an earlier version of this article misstated the age of Shani Louk. She was 23, not 22.

How we handle corrections

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/0G4APct
via IFTTT

The US Men’s Soccer Team Beat Iran On Tuesday, But Iranian Players Deserve All The Credit

2024-05-17T00:50:00.001-07:00

In the past, I found it easy to root against the imperialist teams, but that calculus gets complicated the more those teams change. Paris-born star Kylian Mbappé is the son of a Cameroonian father and a mother of Algerian descent. Canada’s Alphonso Davies was born in a refugee camp in Ghana. Twelve of the 26 players on the US team are Black, as many as the 1994, 1998, and 2002 teams combined.

One of them, Sergiño Dest, was born in the Netherlands to a white Dutch mother and an American father whose ancestry traced to Suriname. On Tuesday, in the game’s 38th minute, Dest headed the ball to Christian Pulisic, a white American regarded as the country’s best player, who knocked it into the goal to give the US a 1–0 lead.

“U-S-A!” the crowd around me chanted, exchanging high fives and yelps. I cheered too, raising my arms in triumph and pride for the country my Filipino elders immigrated to.

When the Iran–US game started, I counted that I was one of three people of color in a bar filled with close to a hundred people. Then, early in the second half, two more took the open seats next to me, Bassel Heiba Elfeky and Billy Strickland, NYU graduate students in Boston for a physics conference. I quickly realized that Elfeky was rooting for Iran. He expressed himself quietly at first, under his breath, gradually rising in tenor as the game intensified in its final minutes with the US desperately clinging to its lead. When the rest of the bar groaned over a penalty called on the US, he pumped his first. While the rest of the bar clapped for a US corner kick, he shook his head.

“Going for the US, it doesn’t feel right,” said Elfeky, who grew up in Egypt and moved to the US for college. “They have a lot of money. And the men make way more than the women, even though the women are so much better. Then you have Iran, who is a complete underdog.”

Strickland, who grew up in LA and is partly of Japanese descent, said he would support Japan’s team over the US’s if they played each other. Elfeky said he always roots against the US men’s soccer team.

“At the end of the day, they play a very boring game,” he said of their tactical style.

In the closing minutes, the US cleared out an Iranian shot that seemed bound to tie the game, and Elfeky let out a “goddamnit.” When the final whistle sounded, sealing the US’s victory, he sighed, shrugged, and said, “It was a good game.” Both teams played hard, helped each other up off the grass, and demonstrated the camaraderie that leads people to say that sports transcends politics. In an Instagram post, US player Tim Weah would call Iran’s players “an inspiration” for how they “displayed so much pride and love for their country and their people.”

Elfeky carried the disappointment familiar to any fan forced to acknowledge that justice rarely prevails in sports. While others around them took celebratory whiskey shots, he and Strickland threw on their jackets and backpacks and headed out. Soon Iran’s players would be home too, to face whatever awaits them.●

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/7dm6xXD
via IFTTT

Israel Sending More Troops to Rafah Amid Warnings of Famine in Gaza

2024-05-16T19:50:00.001-07:00

Israel said on Thursday that it would send more troops to Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, which has become the focal point in the war between Israel and Hamas.

The announcement signaled that Israel intends to press deeper into Rafah despite international concerns about the threat to civilians from a full-scale invasion of the city, where more than a million displaced people had been sheltering.

“Hundreds of targets have already been attacked,” Yoav Gallant, Israel’s defense minister, said after meeting with commanders in the Rafah area. “This operation will continue.”

For the past week Israel has described its offensive as a limited military operation, but satellite imagery and Mr. Gallant’s comments on Thursday suggested that a more significant incursion was already underway.

Rafah is the most important logistics hub in the Gaza Strip, the crucial gateway for most of the food, medicine and other aid that has entered the enclave of 2.2 million people. The fighting has led to the closure of a border crossing between Rafah and Egypt and, for a time, greatly reduced traffic at one between Rafah and Israel at Kerem Shalom.

“The threat of famine in Gaza never loomed larger,” the United Nations’ World Food Program warned this week.

As Israel pushes more deeply into Rafah, and renewed Israeli airstrikes and fighting in hard-pressed northern Gaza send tens of thousands of other civilians fleeing, the questions of where displaced Gazans will go and how food, medicine and other essentials will enter and be distributed across Gaza are growing more critical.

Ra’fat Abu Tueima, 62, and his family have been forced to move six times since the start of the war in Gaza. On Thursday he found himself in his latest makeshift shelter, crammed inside a tent in the battle-ravaged city of Khan Younis wondering how he will feed his nine children.

A taxi driver before the war, Mr. Abu Tueima is among what the United Nations estimates is an exodus of 600,000 people from the southern city of Rafah and its surroundings, where Israeli airstrikes are pounding the land and tanks are rumbling ever deeper into the urban sprawl.

Mr. Abu Tueima, his tent erected in a school courtyard, said he felt abandoned. “No one here helped us with anything,” he said, the stress of seven months of war bringing him to tears.

In Rafah, which he fled last week, he was able to find some aid, Mr. Abu Tueima said. But in Khan Younis he feels bereft of hope. “Not one single person asked about us,” he said. “No one even cares about all of those children and women here.”

Outside the school courtyard on Thursday, a few trucks carrying humanitarian aid drove down the street. Children tried to grab whatever they could, a few making off with bags of sugar.

As criticism of Israel’s military operations mounted on Thursday, South Africa urged the judges of the International Court of Justice to order an end to the ground assault on Rafah, saying it put Palestinian life in the enclave at imminent risk of destruction.

The hearing came after South Africa requested last week that the court issue further constraints on Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. In filings disclosed by the court, South Africa cited the “irreparable harm” posed by Israel’s incursion into Rafah.

“It has become increasingly clear that Israel’s actions in Rafah are part of the end game in which Gaza is utterly destroyed as an area capable of human habitation,” Vaughan Lowe, a British lawyer, told the court. “This is the last step in the destruction of Gaza and its Palestinian people.”

Israel, which denies the claim of genocide, says its latest assault on eastern Rafah is a “precise operation” targeting members of Hamas. It is expected to make its defense before the court on Friday.

In one hopeful development, the American military anchored a temporary pier on Gaza’s coast on Thursday, creating an additional point of entry for humanitarian aid, though the system is still being tested.

Aid will be loaded onto trucks that will begin moving ashore “in the coming days,” the U.S. Central Command said in a statement Thursday morning. Officials said last week that the floating pier and causeway had been completed, but that weather conditions had delayed their installation.

An American ship loaded with humanitarian aid, the Sagamore, set off last week from Cyprus for Gaza, where the materials were loaded onto a smaller vessel for transport to the pier. The United Nations will receive the shipment and oversee its distribution in Gaza, according to Central Command, which said no American troops would set foot in the territory.

Over the next two days, the U.S. military and humanitarian groups will aim to load three to five trucks from the pier and send them into Gaza as a trial run, said Gen. Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

“It’ll probably take another 24 hours to make sure everything is set up,” General Brown told reporters on Thursday aboard a flight to Brussels, where he was attending a NATO meeting. “We have our force protection that’s been put in place, we have contract truck drivers on the other side, and there’s fuel for those truck drivers as well.”

The Pentagon hopes the pier operation will bring in enough aid for around 90 trucks a day initially, reaching 150 a day when it reaches full capacity, officials say.

Aid agencies and U.N. officials have said the Gaza Strip requires around 500 to 600 trucks a day at minimum to meet its needs.

In a briefing on Thursday, an Israeli military spokesman, Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, said supporting the temporary pier project was a “top priority.” He said the Israeli Navy and the 99th Division were supporting the effort by sea and by land.

In Rafah, the Israeli military has until this point described its operations as a limited incursion. Both the United States and the European Union have warned against a major invasion there, saying that the humanitarian toll would be too high.

Satellite imagery captured on Wednesday showed Israeli forces pushing closer to the center of Rafah. Collapsed buildings and debris can be seen throughout the eastern parts of the city, a contrast to images from last week, when only limited damage was visible.

Many areas of Rafah that were full of tents and vehicles just a week ago appeared empty on Wednesday.

Reporting was contributed by Victoria Kim, Natan Odenheimer, Lauren Leatherby, Rawan Sheikh Ahmad, Helene Cooper, Gaya Gupta, Matthew Mpoke Bigg, Marlise Simons and Johnatan Reiss.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/0NagbOj
via IFTTT

First Mourinho, then Conte, now Postecoglou: Are Tottenham the problem?

2024-05-16T17:46:00.001-07:00

Ange Postecoglou claimed the “foundations” at Tottenham Hotspur were “fairly fragile” in the aftermath of the 2-0 loss at home to Manchester City.

The Greek-Australian has largely unified Spurs during his first season as head coach, but has threatened to ignite a feud within the fanbase with comments made after the loss.

Tottenham fans were split on whether they wanted to lose the game to City to stop rivals Arsenal from winning the league, though Postecoglou did not explicitly say this was the reason by his anger, He did suggest, however, that Tuesday’s atmosphere was ‘different’ and previously the crowd had helped propel the team to late wins.

This isn’t the first time that a Tottenham manager has dug out the club for internal discrepancies. Antonio Conte departed after an explosive press conference criticising the club’s recent history and players, while Jose Mourinho continually brings up how Daniel Levy sacked him days before a cup final and the coronavirus pandemic meant he never had an authentic connection with the club.

Are all three rants connected? Are Tottenham really the common problem?

Watch the team analyse the situation on 90min’s ‘Added Time’

SUBSCRIBE TO 90MIN’S YOUTUBE CHANNEL TO WATCH DAILY VIDEOS ABOUT THE HOTTEST TOPICS IN WORLD FOOTBALL

Tottenham’s trophy drought, which will last at least 17 years, has magnified their supposed failures during their time as a ‘big six’ club. They have been caught in a strange position where they are consistently good enough to compete with the best, but never quite topple them all at once.

That said, it can’t just be luck that this drought has lasted so long – even the likes of Portsmouth and Wigan Athletic have won major trophies more recently than Spurs. Since winning the 2008 League Cup, Tottenham have been beaten in four finals and six semi-finals.

Mauricio Pochettino, now of Chelsea, revealed earlier this season that his remit at Tottenham was to make them a consistent Champions League team so the club could finance their new stadium. Such an ambition made sense at the time but now is the moment to change mentality.

The leap from contenders to serial winners when already overachieving to an extent is tough, particularly when a Premier League club. At some point, they will claim silverware again, and they are well-positioned with a manager like Postecoglou – a decorated coach with progressionist principles that fit Spurs’ stature.

After cycling through Mourinho and Conte, it’s time for Tottenham to let Postecoglou have their way. If he says there’s a problem, that the foundations are fairly fragile, he should be allowed to try and come up with and enact the solutions.

READ THE LATEST TOTTENHAM NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/mLGhDCi
via IFTTT

Media veteran Naresh Mohan passes away | India News

2024-05-16T14:50:00.001-07:00

NEW DELHI: Media veteran and former president of The Indian News-paper Society, Naresh Mohan, passed away on Thursday morning.
The society’s president Rakesh Sharma condoled the death, calling Mohan’s passing “an irreparable loss to the entire print media industry”.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/8rlYoNp
via IFTTT

Lakers secure permission to interview Quinn, Borrego, Adelman, Cassell, Nori

2024-05-16T03:46:00.001-07:00

The Los Angeles Lakers are ramping up their search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Darvin Ham, as they secure permissions to interview several NBA assistant coaches.

According to NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Purple and Gold have obtained permission to interview New Orleans’ James Borrego, Denver’s David Adelman, Boston’s Sam Cassell, Minnesota’s Micah Nori, and Miami’s Chris Quinn, among others.

The Lakers secured permission to interview Miami assistant Chris Quinn too, sources tell ESPN.

Continue reading Lakers secure permission to interview Quinn, Borrego, Adelman, Cassell, Nori at TalkBasket.net.

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/U3bExyV
via IFTTT

Putin-Xi Summit – The New York Times

2024-05-15T23:50:00.001-07:00

When China’s top leader, Xi Jinping, hosts President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia this week, the two leaders are expected to present a united front. But they have different agendas.

Mr. Putin is trying to escalate his war in Ukraine before Ukrainian forces can receive a replenishment of arms from the United States, and probably wants to know he can rely on China. Mr. Xi will seek to bolster his strategic partner and “old friend,” but he is also under pressure to avoid further alienating the West over his support for Russia.

Those priorities are the backdrop of Mr. Putin’s two-day state visit, which began in Beijing on Thursday and will include a trip to the northeastern city of Harbin, where a China-Russia trade fair is being held.

Mr. Putin will most likely seek more help from Beijing, which has provided a lifeline to the Kremlin ever since Western sanctions were imposed on Russia for its invasion of Ukraine more than two years ago. China purchases huge quantities of Russian oil and provides technologies that help Moscow withstand its economic isolation and sustain its war machine.

Mr. Xi considers Russia an important counterweight in China’s rivalry with the United States, but he risks alienating Europe, a key trading partner, at a time when China is relying on exports to revive its sluggish economy.

Here is what to know about the summit.

A Personal Relationship and a Shared Vision

The visit is Mr. Putin’s first foreign trip since winning his fifth presidential election in March. Mr. Xi showed the same respect to Mr. Putin when he made Russia his first foreign trip after securing his norm-shattering third term as China’s president in March 2023.

Mr. Xi has met with Mr. Putin over 40 times, including virtually, which is more than any other leader. The two men have cast their relationship as deeply personal by exchanging birthday greetings and referring to each other as “old” and “dear” friends.

In Mr. Putin, Mr. Xi sees a like-minded autocratic leader who blames the United States for holding back his country’s rise. The two leaders declared a “no limits” partnership weeks before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, in 2022, to push back against what they consider American hegemony.

Mr. Xi and Mr. Putin also view themselves as architects of a new world order free of U.S. interference. The two leaders have promoted multilateral groupings of developing countries like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, so named because it includes Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, as a way to counterbalance the West.

Mr. Xi and Mr. Putin will most likely try to project strength and solidarity during their summit to demonstrate to other countries that there is an alternative to the U.S.-led global system.

“Russia-China relations have reached an all-time high, and even in the face of severe international situations, relations between the two countries continue to strengthen,” Mr. Putin said in an interview with Chinese state media published on Wednesday.

What Putin Wants

China has vowed not to provide lethal weapons to Russia, but the United States and Western analysts say China has been aiding Russia with satellite intelligence and fighter jet parts as well as supplying components with both civilian and military uses, such as microchips, machine tools, optical devices, electronic sensors and telecommunications gear.

Mr. Putin will most likely want any such supply of parts and equipment to continue, to help sustain his military’s advances as he intensifies the war effort.

Russian forces opened a new line of attack in recent days near Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Ukraine’s forces are stretched thin and running short on weapons, but billions of dollars’ worth of arms from the United States are expected to trickle in soon.

Mr. Putin is also expected to seek more trade and business deals and is traveling with a large delegation. Included are five deputy prime ministers; the heads of Rosatom, Russia’s nuclear power company, and Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency; as well as Sergey V. Lavrov, the foreign minister; Maksim Reshetnikov, the economy minister; and Andrei R. Belousov, an economist who was named the new defense minister this week.

“The people involved reflect the priorities of both sides,” said Elizabeth Wishnick, a senior research scientist at the Center for Naval Analyses in Virginia who studies Chinese foreign policy.

Mr. Belousov has experience working with China, having previously been co-chair of the Intergovernmental Russian-Chinese Commission on Investment Cooperation, which was founded in 2014 to promote more trade between the two countries.

And among the deputy prime ministers traveling with Mr. Putin is Alexander Novak, a key official for Russian oil and gas, including the development of the Power of Siberia 2 natural gas pipeline. Mr. Putin has long sought to cement an agreement on the project, which would redirect Russian gas supplies that had gone to Europe toward China instead.

It is unclear whether Mr. Xi is interested in the pipeline. Analysts say the Chinese leader could be reluctant because it would travel through a third country, Mongolia, and that it could expose China to potential secondary sanctions and leave it even more reliant on Russia for energy.

Xi’s Strategic Straddle

Mr. Xi has tried to align with Russia and steady ties with the West at the same time to help his ailing economy, an approach that some call a strategic straddle.

China casts itself as neutral on the war in Ukraine and as a proponent of peace. It has offered a vague, 12-point plan for a political settlement of the war and sent an envoy to conduct shuttle diplomacy in Europe.

Western countries have dismissed China’s efforts because they do not call for a withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine. China also sides with Russia by blaming the expansion of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization for creating the tensions that led to Moscow’s invasion.

Mr. Xi’s refusal to condemn the Kremlin’s war has ultimately worsened China’s relations with the West, and it has led to Europe’s growing alignment with the United States on security issues. This makes China’s efforts to head off a trade war with the European Union — over exports of Chinese electric vehicles and market access for European companies — harder for Mr. Xi.

Tensions are also rising with the United States, testing a tentative détente struck by President Biden and Mr. Xi in November. The Biden administration on Tuesday announced a sharp increase in tariffs on an array of Chinese imports, including electric vehicles, solar cells, semiconductors and advanced batteries.

During a visit to Beijing last month, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken warned that the United States would blacklist Chinese banks aiding Russia’s war effort. Russian media reported earlier in the year that Chinese financial institutions had already begun scaling back transactions with Russian firms over concerns about secondary sanctions. Analysts say the change most likely contributed to the drop in year-on-year trade between Russia and China in March, the first such decline since January 2021, according to Chinese customs data.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/dNyocLn
via IFTTT

Getafe 0-3 Atletico Madrid: Griezmann treble seals Champions League qualification

2024-05-15T20:46:00.001-07:00

Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann scored a hat-trick in a 3-0 LaLiga win at Getafe on Wednesday as Diego Simeone’s side sealed Champions League qualification.

The France star opened the scoring in the 27th minute from Rodrigo De Paul’s throughball and had his second shortly before half-time, flicking Samuel Lino’s pinpoint pass past Getafe goalkeeper David Soria.

Griezmann completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute with a fine finish under Soria’s legs, with Lino claiming his second assist by playing Los Colchoneros’ all-time leading scorer into the area.

It was Griezmann’s second hat-trick of the season, after he also netted three times in a 3-0 win at Celta Vigo last October.

With two games remaining, Simeone’s side are now on 73 points in fourth, 11 ahead of fifth-placed Athletic Bilbao, who lost 2-1 against Celta Vigo on Wednesday.

Lovely night lads pic.twitter.com/ty5xVkBiY6

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) May 15, 2024

Data Debrief: Griezmann repeats the trick

Griezmann is the only player to score two hat-tricks in LaLiga this season, and the only player to net a treble with all three goals coming on his left foot.

He might need to go even further to put himself in Golden Boot contention, though, with his 16 goals for this term putting him behind Artem Dovbyk (20), Jude Bellingham, Alexander Sorloth (both 19) and Robert Lewandowski (17).

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/IEP8pMr
via IFTTT

2024 NFL schedule: Entire ‘Monday Night Football’ slate, starting with Jets-49ers in Week 1

2024-05-15T18:50:00.001-07:00

NFL fans will be treated to several significant showdowns this year on “Monday Night Football.” The schedule kicks off with the Jets traveling to San Francisco to face the 49ers in Week 1 and wraps up with a doubleheader in Week 18.

This year’s slate also features several showdowns between title-contending teams, including the Bengals facing the Cowboys in Dallas in Week 14 and a rematch of last year’s NFC title game when the Lions face the 49ers in Week 17. There are several doubleheaders on tap as well, starting in Week 3.

Here’s an entire rundown of the Monday night schedule. Each game can be seen on ESPN (unless noted otherwise), with select matchups also being shown on the “ManningCast,” which is aired on ESPN2 and on ESPN+.

Week 1: Jets at 49ers
Week 2: Falcons at Eagles
Week 3: Jaguars at Bills/Commanders at Bengals (ABC exclusive)
Week 4: Titans at Dolphins/Seahawks at Lions (ABC exclusive)
Week 5: Saints at Chiefs
Week 6: Bills at Jets
Week 7: Ravens at Buccaneers/Chargers at Cardinals (ESPN+)
Week 8: Giants at Steelers
Week 9: Buccaneers at Chiefs
Week 10: Dolphins at Rams
Week 11: Texans at Cowboys
Week 12: Ravens at Chargers
Week 13: Browns at Broncos
Week 14: Bengals at Cowboys
Week 15: Bears at Vikings (ABC exclusive)/Falcons at Raiders
Week 16: Saints at Packers
Week 17: Lions at 49ers
Week 18: TBD doubleheader

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/zygFkKC
via IFTTT

Age limits to be imposed on school sex education for first time – reports | Politics News

2024-05-14T23:50:00.001-07:00

Age limits are set to be imposed for the first time on when children can be taught sex education, according to reports.

Under the proposals, schools will be told not to teach children any form of sex education until year 5, when pupils are aged nine.

Other measures due to be announced by Education Secretary Gillian Keegan will prevent children from being taught they can change their gender, and rules out any explicit sexual conversations until the age of 13, according to The Times newspaper.

Thirteen would also be the age threshold for pupils to be taught about contraception, sexually transmitted infections, and abortion.

The new guidance is reportedly part of the Government’s response to concerns children are receiving age-inappropriate relationships, sex and health education (RSHE).

The Times reported that schools will be required to provide parents with samples of the material their children will be taught.

Read more from Sky News:
Doctor diagnosed with incurable cancer free of disease
Woman partially paralysed after star’s stage dive into crowd
Man bludgeoned friend to death with hammer

RSHE became compulsory in all English schools in September 2020.

The existing guidance outlines broad lesson modules, stating primary school children should be taught about alternative types of families and healthy relationships.

Secondary school aged children are taught more complex topics, including puberty, sexual relationships, consent, unsafe relationships, and online harms.

The Department for Education said it could not confirm the newspaper reports, and that it would not speculate on leaks.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/cyQfIDe
via IFTTT

Donte DiVincenzo: Pacers aren’t the team who throws the first punch; that’s us

2024-05-14T22:46:00.001-07:00

New York Knicks shooting guard Donte DiVincenzo spoke about not letting the Indiana Pacers throw the first punch after Sunday’s 121-89 Eastern Conference Semifinal Game 4 road loss (series tied 2-2).

(via SNY):

“I think they came out and made life more difficult from the beginning. Not just me, but everybody, and I think that’s where we have to look at not letting them throw the first punch and not letting them hit us first and getting us on our heels.

Continue reading Donte DiVincenzo: Pacers aren’t the team who throws the first punch; that’s us at TalkBasket.net.

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/bcJ037v
via IFTTT

Millions more middle-aged are obese, study suggests

2024-05-14T18:50:00.001-07:00

The study is one of many which have suggested different cut-off points for BMI over the years.

Yet it’s unlikely BMI will be ditched anytime soon – it’s much cheaper than scanning people to quantify their body fat accurately.

The researchers admit larger studies in other countries are needed to confirm the results. This study only looked at adults in one region of Italy and didn’t look at the distribution of fat in people’s bodies – only the percentage of the body made up of fat.

It also didn’t ask people about their diets or exercise habits to work how why some people might be more at risk from obesity than others.

On its own, it’s not clear whether body fat analysis would be be a definitive measurement either.

“We need a simple tool to screen for obesity that can be available for anyone,” co-author Prof Marwan El Ghoch, from the University of Beirut, said.

Prof Naveed Sattar, from the University of Glasgow, said: “Rather than cutting the obesity thresholds to 27, which would mean around half the adults in UK are living with obesity, other definitions of obesity that include also looking at waist circumference, combined with specific signs and symptoms of excess weight, are likely to be more informative.”

The search for the right tool continues.

Source link

from World News – My Blog https://ift.tt/gVkG4oR
via IFTTT

St. Louis City v Los Angeles FC: Carnell hopes to continue ´buzz´ around Citypark

2024-05-14T15:46:00.001-07:00

St. Louis City head coach Bradley Carnell is aiming to continue the “buzz” around their Citypark home when Los Angeles FC visit for the midweek MLS clash.

Carnell’s side maintained their unbeaten run at home this campaign after sweeping aside Chicago Fire 3-1 in their last outing.

They have four wins and three draws at Citypark in the league this year – with Carnell desperate to keep that streak up.

“There’s a certain buzz and an energy in this stadium and a certain enjoyment and how we like to play,” Carnell said.

“I’m very happy with the way we are continuing to apply the principles, to apply the game plan, and very happy to have a response when we conceded the equalizer [against the Fire].”

The limbs in this place pic.twitter.com/nuitbJYLlt

— St Louis CITY SC (@stlCITYsc) May 14, 2024

St. Louis, who are ninth in the Western Conference standings, may fancy a third straight home win at Citypark but LAFC have also won their last three matches.

Steve Cherundolo’s men eased past Vancouver Whitecaps 3-0 on Sunday thanks to Cristian Olivera’s brace.

“It’s been a long road for Kike [Olivera] to become more prolific. He’s put a lot of individual work in the training field with coaches,” said head coach Cherundolo.

“He has the ability also to learn and get better. I think that’s what you’re seeing, so we’re very happy with his progression and his production.”

Full-back Sergi Palencia, who plays behind Olivera on the right flank, echoed Cherundolo’s sentiment.

“It’s just marvellous to see how hard this man works,” Palencia added. “We have to tell him to take it easy and slow down at training because this guy only goes one level and that’s full intensity.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH

St. Louis City – Rasmus Alm

Rasmus Alm scored 84 seconds into St. Louis City’s 3-1 win over Chicago, the earliest goal in MLS play for City.

Alm’s strike was 28 metres from goal, the longest non-free-kick goal in club history – a warning sign that LAFC must heed from set-piece chances.

Los Angeles FC – Denis Bouanga

Denis Bouanga notched three assists against the Whitecaps, his sixth MLS game with three or more goal contributions since the beginning of last season.

No other MLS player has more than four such games in that time (Lionel Messi, Christian Benteke – four each).

MATCH PREDICTION – ST. LOUIS CITY WIN

St. Louis are the favourites for this clash, coming off the back of their 3-1 win over the Fire.

Carnell’s side are unbeaten in their last 19 MLS matches when not conceding multiple goals in a game, with that defensive solidity the key to St. Louis’ success.

Yet it is by no means a foregone conclusion for another home win here.

LAFC collected four points in two meetings with St. Louis City last season, winning 3-0 at home and playing a scoreless draw away, becoming only one of four teams to keep a clean sheet at Citypark in the regular season.

OPTA WIN PROBABILITY

St. Louis City win – 44.5%

Los Angeles FC win – 28.1%

Draw – 27.4%

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/iJKqlIT
via IFTTT

Teresa Weatherspoon’s Vision for the Chicago Sky and Her Own Legacy

2024-05-14T01:46:00.001-07:00

It’s been a few weeks since the Chicago Sky announced in October that Teresa Weatherspoon will take over as head coach of the franchise, and the Hall of Famer is still processing. She hasn’t officially made the big move yet, or found somewhere to live, but by the time we catch up with her over the phone, it’s clear that she’s already begun preparing, at least mentally, for the season ahead. She’s talked to the coaches who were instrumental in her own growth, and has been thinking a lot about “the most important thing,” which is how she can put her players in a position to be successful.

Weatherspoon’s return to the W, this time as a coach, is historic: she was one of the original members of the New York Liberty when the W began play in ’97 and watched the League, and the game, grow and evolve throughout her storied career, which included five All-Star appearances and winning the first-ever Defensive Player of the Year award. To call her simply a basketball great wouldn’t do her career justice—Weatherspoon is a pioneer, an inspiration, a legend.

“First of all, it’s full circle,” she says of now coaching in the W. “I had the opportunity to play in New York and, as a player, to start something in a professional [women’s basketball] league in America. But then to come back and coach in this League really means a lot to me because it’s still helping the League to grow. I’ve had an opportunity to do some incredible things in between to just have myself very well prepared for any situation or circumstances that might come up. You equip yourself along the way.”

Those “things in between” that Weatherspoon is referring to are all the coaching jobs she’s had over the past decade—at nearly every level of the game—including as a head coach at her alma mater, Louisiana Tech, and then in the NBA, where she served as a player development coach before moving up to assistant coach with the New Orleans Pelicans. For her, the decision to join the Sky was simple: they knew she was the perfect person for the job. Period. “They believed in me. They fought for me. They trusted me to lead this organization. For me, that was enough.”

Weatherspoon has been tasked with bringing the Sky back to glory. After winning its first-ever WNBA championship in 2021, the franchise has not made it past the semifinals in the past two seasons. While 2021 Finals MVP Kahleah Copper is now in Phoenix, they have exciting new additions including Diamond DeShields and Chennedy Carter. But one thing their new head coach has made pretty clear is to not call this upcoming season a rebuilding year. That’s not the framework in which Weatherspoon operates. She has other plans. Big plans.

SLAM: As you get ready for the upcoming season, what do you think the transition will be like, going from coaching in the NBA to taking over as a head coach in the W? What’s your approach?

Teresa Weatherspoon: It’s [about] being aware of who you’re coaching [and] being aware of your personnel. I think when you’re playing the game period, they always tell you to know your personnel. That’s what it is for me. Yes, it is basketball. Yes, I recognize you’re male and you’re female. But at the end of the day, it’s all about knowing your personnel and what fits your personnel—what is best for your personnel for them to be the best versions of themselves.

SLAM: It’s been a few years since the Sky won a chip. What do you think it will take to bring the team back to that level?

TW: Well, first of all, they did a heck of a job pushing to get into the playoffs, right? That says a lot about who they are, the fight that’s in them, the determination that’s in them. They have goals and they want it…It’s just a matter of me now coming in and putting my stamp on things of how I see things with them and then sustaining the success. We don’t want to be successful for [just] a year, we want to sustain the success, and that’s going to be our attitude. That’s going to be our approach…They have the ability, they have the talent, they have all of that. And it’s a matter of putting together pieces to the puzzle and making it work.

SLAM: When you first got the head coaching gig, did you connect with the players right away?

TW: As a matter of fact, I sent them a message this morning just to say, Hey, wishing you a great day, because I want them to know that [they’re being] thought of. I’m not just a coach that’s just going to coach you and then forget about you, no. I want to know how you’re doing. I want to know how your family’s doing. I’m different. I approach things differently because I was once a player and I knew what was important to me as a player. So, I want to bring that same thing to them because I want to be a coach that’s open, honest and transparent.

SLAM: Would you describe yourself as a people person?

TW: I’ve always wanted to be. Not to be known, but to show that I care. And in that care, especially being a head coach, I’m going to push buttons that you never thought could be pushed. I’m going to push them because as a coach, if I ruffle your feathers, I’m doing my job.

SLAM: Having coached at every level and now at the highest level—the NBA and, soon, the WNBA—what advice would you give to aspiring coaches who want to get to where you are?

TW: This is crazy [because] I just gave this message in a speaking engagement that I had and I talked about the table. When you talk about the table, it’s your table…It’s a self-constructed table, and every experience that you have is at your table…I want people to break bread with me at my table because I’ve had to experience a lot of things to equip me to get to where I am right now. And it’s my duty—whether it’s hard, whether it’s tough, whether it’s painful—it’s my duty to go through it to make sure that every seat at my table is available for everyone to find solutions. Because at the end of the day, that’s going to be the most important thing: What is your life doing to impact another life?

SLAM: When did you come to that realization—that you are the player, and it’s your duty to be of service to others?

TW: As you’re growing, you know you have to bring something to the table—you know that you gotta bring something so someone can trust you and know that you’re of value. Especially when you’re playing the game, people have to know, What’s your best skill? What do you bring to this team? And why would you help this team be successful?…That question [has] happened to me all my life, so it has built my table…Now, this table has to help someone else…There’s no way that I should go through something, and at the table there’s no solution for what I went through. It’s just sitting there. It doesn’t sit, you gotta keep moving to find the solution…And that’s all I’ve ever wanted. If there’s something that you don’t like or you don’t see that’s coming from me and it’s what you want, tell me. I’m gonna find the solution. I’m gonna fight my butt off to find the solution, because I always want to be able to help the next person.

SLAM: You had such a storied playing career. As you enter this new chapter, how would you define your legacy up to this point?

TW: I believe that is still being written. I believe as long as you continue to strive, to thrive, that it’s going to continue to be written, because there’s a lot more, I believe, to come from me. There’s a lot more that God has for me. So, I have to continue to move in that way, knowing that things aren’t over. There are many more things to come.

Photos via Getty Images.

from Latest Sport Updates – My Blog https://ift.tt/GV12XQB
via IFTTT