LeBron James Returns but Lakers Can’t Hold Off Celtics
King James returned from an abdominal injury to face the Celtics at the TD Garden on Friday, but even his presence couldn’t set the struggling Lakers back on course. Jayson Tatum led the Cs with 37 points and 11 rebounds as Boston beat their long-time rivals 130-108. With the loss, the Lakers sunk to 8-9 on the season.
NWSL Inks Largest Deal in League History with Nike Extension
The NWSL Championship is set for Saturday in Louisville as the Washington Spirit will take on the Chicago Red Stars. However, on Friday, the swoosh announced that they had extended their investment in the league with a multi-year partnership, which will include a commitment to enhancing research for footwear and apparel and the utilization of NWSL athletes in Nike campaigns and profiles.
Cam Newton to Start for Panthers on Sunday
One week after re-signing with Carolina, Cam Newton is set to log his first start of the season on Sunday as the Panthers take on the Washington Football Team on Sunday. Newton scored two quick touchdowns in limited time in his debut last week but will face his first true test as the WFT is coming off their surprising win against the Bucs in last week’s matchup.
Dallas Goedert Lands 4-year, $59M Contract with Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles announced on Friday that they have secured the tight-end through 2025. The move signals the Eagles’ most recent investment in home-grown players, as the 49th pick in the 2018 draft has taken on a central role with the departure of veteran Zach Ertz. Goedert has 29 catches for 429 yards and two touchdowns this season.
MLS Chief Abbott to Step Down at End of Year
Mark Abbott’s nearly 30-year career with Major League Soccer is coming to an end, Sports Business Journal reported on Friday. Abbott – who was the league’s first employee – will step down from his position as President and Deputy Commissioner at the end of the year, but serve in an advisory role through the 2022 transition.
Australian Open to Require Full COVID Vaccination
After months of speculation, officials of the Australian Open confirmed on Friday that competing athletes will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. A recent report by the New York Times indicates that only 65% of professional tennis players are vaccinated, which will throw some appearances at the January grand slam into question.