Category Archives: sports

competition, education, entertainment, high_school, sports

High school girls volleyball rankings, Oct. 21, 2025: Bay Area News Group Top 15

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WCAL Results Shake Up Standings as Regular Season Approaches Home Stretch

The West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL) volleyball competition is heating up as recent match results have shuffled the team standings. With the regular season winding down, every game becomes crucial for squads aiming to secure favorable positions heading into the postseason.

Bay Area High School Volleyball Playoffs on the Horizon

As the WCAL regular season nears its conclusion, the focus shifts toward the upcoming North Coast Section (NCS) playoffs. Bay Area high school volleyball teams are gearing up for intense postseason battles, with playoff berths and seeding at stake.

Fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating the final weeks of the season, where determination and resilience will be key to making a deep playoff run.

https://www.mercurynews.com/2025/10/21/high-school-girls-volleyball-rankings-oct-21-2025-bay-area-news-group-top-15/

business, culture, entertainment, international, sports

Women’s Pro Baseball League selects Boston, New York LA, and San Francisco for inaugural season

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The Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL) has announced that New York, Boston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco will be the cities representing the four teams competing in its inaugural season. The announcement was made Tuesday as the upstart league prepares for its debut.

Co-founded by Justine Siegal—the first woman to coach for an MLB team with the Oakland Athletics in 2015—the WPBL revealed plans last year to launch in 2026 as a six-team circuit featuring a regular season, playoffs, and an all-star game. When it begins, it will be the first professional women’s baseball league since the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, famously depicted in *A League of Their Own*, folded in 1954.

The league will start with four teams for its inaugural season, each comprising 15 players. The top 100 players from the WPBL’s summer tryouts have advanced to the league’s draft next month. The draft will also include some of baseball’s biggest stars, such as former Little League standout Mo’ne Davis, USA Baseball’s Kelsie Whitmore, and Japanese pitcher Ayami Sato.

All WPBL games in 2026 will be played at a neutral venue, which the league plans to announce at a later date. The four cities were chosen due to their large market sizes and passionate fan bases.

“Each of these cities are storied sports cities,” Siegal said in a statement. “We can’t wait to connect with the fans who live there and baseball fans across the country.”
https://whdh.com/news/womens-pro-baseball-league-selects-boston-new-york-la-and-san-francisco-for-inaugural-season/

barcelona, entertainment, football, sports, transfer

Sergio Aguero makes feelings clear about Julian Alvarez ‘transfer’ amid links with Barcelona

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**Sergio Aguero Declines to Comment on Julian Alvarez’s Potential Barcelona Move, Praises Atletico Madrid Striker**

Former Argentina striker Sergio Aguero has chosen not to speculate on the possibility of Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez joining Barcelona. Instead, he heaped praise on the former Manchester City forward and expressed a desire for Atletico fans to continue enjoying Alvarez’s performances on the pitch.

Reports have suggested that the Catalan club is monitoring Alvarez as a potential long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker is in the final year of his contract and has not yet been offered a renewal.

Aguero stated, “I wouldn’t speculate on future signings; I think this is the time to enjoy his achievements with Atletico. What Julian has achieved is astonishing. A player with the ability to move all over the pitch, he demonstrates an enormous level of sacrifice and talent.”

He added, “People always talk; last year there were plenty of rumors too. But honestly, this is just the beginning. My focus is on improving every day, winning with my teammates here. That’s all I have in mind.”

### Barcelona’s Interest and Alvarez’s Background

Barcelona were reportedly linked with Alvarez during his time at Manchester City but did not match the asking price when the striker left the Premier League club in 2024. It is known that Alvarez is a Barcelona fan, as revealed by his former coach.

Hugo Rafael Varas, Julian Alvarez’s first coach, spoke to Super Deportivo Radio in September and revealed that the Argentine striker was not entirely comfortable at Atletico Madrid’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Varas suggested a potential move could be on the horizon but expressed a preference for Alvarez joining Real Madrid over Barcelona.

“I think he’s played too many games on the sidelines, he’s never played in the position he should be playing,” Varas said. “I know he’s told his family that he’s thinking about the team, he thinks he plans to play and do well, and his goal is to continue being the national team’s No. 9.”

He further added, “I think that at some point there will be a change of coach or the same. Recently a person told me to go to Barcelona and the truth is that he is not at Barcelona because he did not put the money he had to put in. He would leave, because he was always a Barca fan. I would like him to play for Real Madrid.”

### Current Contract and Future Outlook

Julian Alvarez signed a six-year deal when he joined Atletico Madrid in 2024 and currently has five years remaining on his contract.

—

**About the Author**

Sripad is a veteran Sportskeeda football journalist with around 10 years of experience. He began writing during his school days and developed a passion for football in the early 2000s. A lifelong Chelsea fan, Sripad regards Lionel Messi as the undisputed GOAT and favors managers Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson.

He follows major European leagues alongside others such as the MLS, Saudi Pro League, Eredivisie, and Liga MX. Sripad is known for relying on credible sources and providing thorough background information in his writing. His work has earned recognition within the football community and has been shared by prominent figures including John Terry, Gary Lineker, and Declan Rice.

When not covering football, Sripad enjoys watching past Formula 1 races and playing FIFA. If given the chance to change a football rule, he would want VAR to be fully automated and offside rules to be less stringent.

Edited by Sripad.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/news-sergio-aguero-makes-feelings-clear-julian-alvarez-transfer-amid-links-barcelona

brawl, entertainment, football, news, sports

NFL referee steps in to protect Seahawks’ Jaxon Smith-Njigba in wild ‘MNF’ brawl scene

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This referee went above and beyond on Monday night during the Seahawks’ 27-19 home win over the Texans on “Monday Night Football.”

Former NFL defensive back and current official Nathan Jones stepped in front of Seahawks star Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the Texans’ sideline to prevent any fireworks during a potentially combustible situation.

The incident unfolded roughly halfway through the fourth quarter after Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. intercepted a Sam Darnold pass intended for AJ Barner, with the Seahawks leading 27-12. As Stingley ran out of bounds, he stiff-armed Smith-Njigba, causing the receiver’s helmet to fall off.

Smith-Njigba, the former Ohio State star who had earlier received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after scoring a touchdown, responded by shoving Stingley in the back as both headed toward the benches. Several Texans players rushed over, with linebacker Christian Harris even shoving Smith-Njigba into the bench.

Sitting on the bench, Smith-Njigba extended his arms outward, seemingly indicating he was not trying to escalate the situation. Meanwhile, some Texans teammates held Harris back to prevent further confrontation.

As tensions rose, Seahawks teammate Cooper Kupp and others made their way over to defuse the situation. That’s when Nathan Jones worked his way through the pile of bodies to surround Smith-Njigba. Standing face-to-face with the receiver, Jones put his arms on each side of him, helping to calm both sides down.

Stingley ultimately received an unnecessary roughness penalty for his actions.

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky praised Jones for his quick and decisive intervention.

“That’s a good job by that official, that referee right there, to protect that player, man,” Orlovsky said. “I don’t know that official’s name, but that’s outstanding by him.”

A Newark native, Nathan Jones played college football at Rutgers before being drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. Over an eight-year NFL career spanning 106 games, Jones played for the Cowboys (2004-07), Dolphins (2008-09, 2011), Broncos (2010), and Patriots (2011). He tallied three interceptions and six sacks during his time in the league.

Jones’ transition from NFL player to official clearly showed his commitment to the game, proving invaluable in moments like Monday night’s intense confrontation.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/21/sports/nfl-referee-steps-in-to-protect-seahawks-jaxon-smith-njigba-in-wild-mnf-brawl-scene/

business, culture, entertainment, nba, sports

Houston Rockets Injury Report: Latest update on Dorian Finney-Smith’s franchise debut for opening night (Oct. 21)

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The Houston Rockets tip off their 2025-26 NBA season on Tuesday when they travel to the Paycom Center to face the defending champions, the OKC Thunder. There’s a mix of uncertainty and excitement looming over the Rockets as they head into the new season.

It’s been the biggest summer of change for Houston since 2017-18, when Chris Paul pushed for a trade from Los Angeles to team up with James Harden. This offseason, the front office has made a bold statement by signing superstar Kevin Durant in a blockbuster move, signaling serious ambition to contend for their long-awaited championship.

In addition to Durant, the Rockets have added several new players including Josh Okogie, Dorian Finney-Smith, JD Davison, and Clint Capela. Capela, in particular, is already being seen as a game-changer for Houston’s increasingly youthful roster. The team will be eager to hit the ground running, but starting the season against the reigning champions, the Thunder, presents a tough challenge.

### Houston Rockets Injury Report: Opening Night Updates

The Rockets are set to begin the campaign without one of their key starting guards, Fred VanVleet, who suffered a devastating ACL tear late in the offseason and is expected to miss the entire season. Additionally, Dorian Finney-Smith and Jae’Sean Tate are both recovering from ankle injuries and will be sidelined on opening night.

Isaiah Crawford faces a race against time to be fit but is expected to feature. The 23-year-old forward is currently listed as questionable with an ankle sprain and will be assessed before tip-off.

### What to Expect from the New-Look Houston Rockets

The revamped Rockets gave fans a glimpse of what’s to come by going unbeaten in the preseason. They dispatched the Atlanta Hawks twice, as well as the Utah Jazz and the New Orleans Pelicans, winning all four games by an average margin of 10.5 points and scoring an impressive 131.3 points per game.

With a 15-time NBA All-Star in Kevin Durant leading the charge, expectations are naturally high. While the primary goal remains winning a championship, making a deeper playoff run is equally important. Last season, Houston finished second in the regular season but suffered a disappointing first-round exit at the hands of the Golden State Warriors. This campaign, they are determined to at least advance beyond that stage.

### How to Watch Houston Rockets vs. OKC Thunder

The opening night game between the Rockets and Thunder is scheduled to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Paycom Center. This game will also feature the Thunder hoisting their championship banner, adding to the excitement and atmosphere.

Adding extra intrigue, former Thunder star Kevin Durant will face off against his old team for the first time. The game will be broadcast on NBC, marking the network’s return to NBA coverage after decades.

Stay tuned as the Houston Rockets embark on a promising new season filled with hope, challenges, and the pursuit of NBA glory.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/news-houston-rockets-injury-report-latest-update-dorian-finney-smith-s-franchise-debut-opening-night-oct-21

health, medicine, science, social media, sports

Common bodybuilding supplement may trigger dangerous heart disease

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New Research Reveals Dangerous Link Between Anabolic Steroid Use and Atrial Fibrillation

New research from the University of Birmingham and German scientists has uncovered a troubling connection between anabolic steroid use and an increased risk of a serious heart condition called atrial fibrillation. This discovery raises particular concerns for young men who use steroids to build muscle, often influenced by trends on social media platforms like TikTok.

**What Are Anabolic Steroids?**

Anabolic steroids are man-made versions of the hormone testosterone. They are commonly used in bodybuilding to increase muscle mass and strength. While these substances can lead to rapid changes in physical appearance, the new study led by Dr. Laura Sommerfeld from UKE Hamburg highlights a hidden danger: steroids may cause harm to the heart, especially in individuals with certain genetic predispositions.

**Focus on Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC)**

The research focused on a heart disease known as arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC). ARVC affects the way cells in the heart muscle connect to each other — connections that are vital for maintaining a stable and properly functioning heart muscle. This disease tends to be more common and severe in men.

The study found that using anabolic steroids for as little as six weeks can damage these crucial cell connections and interfere with sodium channels in the heart. These disruptions slow down the heart’s electrical signals, particularly in the upper chambers known as the atria. When these signals are disturbed, it can lead to atrial fibrillation — an irregular heartbeat that increases the risk of blood clots, stroke, and even heart failure.

**Expert Insights**

Professor Larissa Fabritz, a co-author of the study, explained that high levels of testosterone can worsen heart diseases such as ARVC. These conditions may lead to dangerous heart rhythm problems and sudden death. This makes steroid misuse a significant risk, especially for young men who might be unaware of their genetic vulnerabilities.

**Implications and Warnings**

This research serves as an important warning for anyone considering anabolic steroids for muscle growth. The risks extend far beyond muscle strain or acne; steroids can directly affect the heart and trigger life-threatening conditions.

With the rising popularity of steroid use—particularly among young people influenced by social media trends—these findings could not be more urgent. It’s a crucial reminder that not all substances are harmless simply because they are available online or widely discussed in fitness communities.

Additional studies have shown that even some herbal supplements may cause irregular heart rhythms. Conversely, certain foods like eggs and yogurt have been linked to better heart health and lower risks of heart disease.

**Protecting Your Heart Health**

Looking good on the outside should never come at the cost of harming your heart. If you are considering supplements or substances to alter your body, it’s always wise to consult a doctor first. Staying informed and making careful decisions is the best way to safeguard your heart and overall health.

For those interested in heart health, it’s also beneficial to read about recent studies on blood thinner drugs that can prevent strokes in people with hidden heart issues, as well as new guidelines on the use of daily aspirin for heart attack and stroke prevention.

Additionally, related research has explored how some diabetes drugs may increase the risk of heart failure, while others can help prevent heart and kidney diseases.

**Final Thought**

Your heart health matters. Make choices that support a strong, healthy heart—not just a strong physique.
https://knowridge.com/2025/10/common-bodybuilding-supplement-may-trigger-dangerous-heart-disease/

entertainment, fighting, japan, sports, thai

Nong-O excited to face ‘famous star’ Rodtang at ONE 173: “This fight is going to be really entertaining”

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Nong-O Hama believes his iconic all-Thai superfight alongside Rodtang Jitmuangnon will produce fireworks in Tokyo, Japan.

The anticipation is building as these two Thai legends prepare to showcase their skills on an international stage. Fans around the world are eager to witness this thrilling matchup that promises high-energy action and remarkable technique.

Stay tuned for more updates on this electrifying event set to light up Tokyo!
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-nong-o-excited-face-famous-star-rodtang-one-173-this-fight-going-really-entertaining

cricket, entertainment, india, international, sports

“You are obviously going to be rusty” – Former India coach’s blunt take on Kohli & Rohit after AUS vs IND 2025 1st ODI

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Former India coach Ravi Shastri defended Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s underwhelming performances during their international return in the first ODI against Australia at Optus Stadium on Sunday, October 19.

The veteran duo failed to reach double figures, getting dismissed early as India suffered a rain-curtailed seven-wicket loss against Mitchell Marsh and his team.

Rohit Sharma showed some promise by striking an early boundary after India opted to bat first in Shubman Gill’s debut match as ODI captain. However, the explosive opener was soon caught in the slip cordon, dismissed by a rising delivery from Josh Hazlewood in the fourth over.

Virat Kohli, on the other hand, appeared boxed in by the Australian seamers and strategic field placements inside the circle. He struggled to get off the mark and was eventually dismissed for an eight-ball duck, caught at point by Cooper Connolly off Mitchell Starc’s bowling.

Reflecting on their challenging return, Ravi Shastri explained that the experienced pair faced tough conditions and circumstances in their very first game after a long hiatus.

“I mean, they came back, they got caught on a dodgy pitch. It was a good toss to win for Australia and then the weather was such that it was not easy. When you come back from a long layoff, you are obviously going to be rusty,” Shastri said on ICC Review ahead of the second ODI.

He added, “It’s not easy for any overseas team to land in Australia, say, two days prior to a game in Perth and adjust to those conditions straight away—especially when you have that extra bounce and are playing against quality fast bowlers. But I think only time will tell. They’ll go to Adelaide, have some time off to get into the nets, get their minds sorted, and get back into action.”

Shastri also highlighted hunger and passion as critical factors for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the latter stages of their careers. He stressed that it would be unwise to rush into judgment based on just one game since their return.

“So I’m in no hurry to judge, but it’s when you come back at that age, after some time, it’s about how much you’re enjoying the sport and how much hunger is there and passion is left in you to play the game. So if you tick the boxes in two out of those three, especially the enjoyment part of it, then you can give them both time because they’ve got class, they’ve got experience, and a little bit of time will sort things out. But I’d rather wait than jump and judge immediately,” he elaborated.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are expected to feature in the upcoming second ODI against Australia at Adelaide Oval on Thursday, October 23. The hosts currently hold a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

### “He’s brutal on himself at times” — Ravi Shastri on workload and high expectations driving Virat Kohli into early Test retirement

With Virat Kohli having retired from T20 internationals and Test cricket, ODI cricket remains his sole focus. He stepped away from T20Is right after the 2024 T20 World Cup, while his surprising decision to retire from red-ball cricket came midway through the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL), ahead of the England tour.

Ravi Shastri reflected on Kohli’s self-demanding nature amid a hectic workload, which ultimately influenced his early retirement from Tests.

“Virat Kohli does not leave any stone unturned when it comes to preparation. He’s brutal on himself at times, and that might have taken its toll over a span of time that stretches back to 14-16 years of cricket. Then that enjoyment factor, that hunger factor, the same focus doesn’t exist. He does not have the appetite to put in the same amount of work day in day out and hence, that might have prompted him the decision (to retire), right or wrong, only time will tell,” Shastri said.

Virat Kohli concluded his illustrious Test career with 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85. His last Test appearance came during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series finale at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-you-obviously-going-rusty-former-india-coach-s-blunt-take-kohli-rohit-aus-vs-ind-2025-1st-odi

baseball, canada, entertainment, sports, world series

$60,800,000 Canadiens forward takes a savage dig at Blue Jays, right as they advance to World Series with a Game 7 win over Mariners

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Montreal Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkovsky took a playful dig at the Toronto Blue Jays following their thrilling 4-3 win over the Seattle Mariners in Game 7 of the American League Championship on Monday. This victory marks Toronto’s first World Series berth since 1993.

When asked in the post-game media interview if he’s a big baseball fan, Slafkovský credited teammate Kaiden Guhle for getting him hooked on the sport. He also made a humorous remark about the Blue Jays, referencing the team’s earlier struggles in the series. Toronto fell behind 2-0 before rallying to force and win the decisive game at Rogers Centre.

Juraj Slafkovsky said, “Guhle got me into it. I thought the Jays have booked their Cancun vacation, but looks like they’re coming back now.”

The Toronto Blue Jays’ dramatic comeback was fueled by George Springer’s three-run homer in the seventh inning, which erased a 3-1 deficit. The Blue Jays will face Shohei Ohtani’s Los Angeles Dodgers in the Fall Classic starting October 24.

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### Juraj Slafkovsky Credits His Goal to Noah Dobson’s “Beautiful” Play in Canadiens’ Win

Juraj Slafkovsky scored a goal in the Montreal Canadiens’ 4-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres on Monday. His goal came at 2:57 of the third period, assisted by Noah Dobson, who carried the puck around the net and passed it into the crease. Slafkovsky then shot the puck into the wide-open net, giving the Habs a 2-1 lead.

“It was a really nice play,” Slafkovsky said.

Currently signed to an eight-year, $60.8 million contract, Slafkovsky has accumulated three points through as many goals in seven games this season.

Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens improved their record to 5-2-0 and are sitting second in the Atlantic Division. They will travel to Scotiabank Saddledome to face the Calgary Flames next on Wednesday.

—

**Also Read:** Canadiens President Gets 100% Honest About Lane Hutson’s $70.8M Contract Extension with Habs
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/news-60-800-000-canadiens-forward-takes-savage-dig-blue-jays-right-advance-world-series-game-7-win-over-mariners

basketball, business, contracts, entertainment, sports

Christian Braun agrees to $125M, 5-year extension with Denver Nuggets

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DENVER (AP) — Shooting guard Christian Braun has agreed to a $125 million, five-year contract extension with the Denver Nuggets, his agent Bill Duffy confirmed to The Associated Press. The deal was first reported by ESPN.

The 24-year-old Braun is coming off a season in which he solidified his place in the Nuggets’ starting lineup, averaging 15.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Known for his high-energy defense and hustle, Braun fits seamlessly alongside Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon.

Braun is also sporting a new look this season, debuting a buzz cut hairstyle. Standing 6-foot-6, he was selected by Denver with the 21st overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft after a collegiate career at Kansas, where he won a national title.

During his rookie season, Braun played a key role in helping the Nuggets capture their first NBA championship. He scored a career-high 30 points last April against the Indiana Pacers. In last season’s playoff run, Braun averaged 12.6 points and 6.4 rebounds, although Denver’s journey ended in a seven-game second-round loss to the eventual champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

Looking ahead, the Nuggets remain among the favorites to compete for an NBA crown this season. The team has a fresh look following the trade of Michael Porter Jr. to Brooklyn in exchange for Cam Johnson, as well as a separate deal with Sacramento to acquire big man Jonas Valanciunas.

Denver also added veterans Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown, the latter of whom, alongside Braun, was a key contributor off the bench during the Nuggets’ 2023 title run.
https://www.denver7.com/sports/nuggets/christian-braun-agrees-to-125m-5-year-extension-with-denver-nuggets