Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning USA TODAY across Baseball, Hockey, Football.
A USA TODAY investigation finds that Black Bear Sports Group, backed by Blackstreet Capital Holdings, has rapidly acquired rinks and teams nationwide, driving up costs and raising antitrust concerns.
Auburn’s baseball team has surged to No. 3 in the RPI after a decisive series against Mississippi State, boasting a 16‑10 SEC record and a schedule ranked as the nation’s toughest. With a perfect run against lower‑tier opponents and 13 wins over Quad 1 teams, the Tigers are poised for a critical final week that includes a matchup against No. 5 Georgia at Plainsman Park. A strong finish could lock in a national seed and home‑field advantage for the NCAA tournament.
Indiana football will celebrate its perfect season at the White House on May 11, but Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza will not be there, opting instead to concentrate on proving himself with the Las Vegas Raiders.
North Carolina’s baseball program has reached 40 wins for the third straight season, climbing to No. 2 in the USA TODAY Coaches poll. A sweep of Pitt highlighted a deep pitching staff and potent offense, while upcoming games against UNCW and N.C. State could lock in a top‑five national seed for the NCAA Tournament.
After a 2‑1 stretch that included a series win over Oklahoma, Arkansas jumps four spots in the latest poll, positioning itself among the nation's top programs as it heads into a pivotal series at Kentucky.
The Lady Vols have added 13 transfers and two freshmen, a class that USA TODAY ranks ninth in the nation and second in the SEC, featuring standout players like Kaylene Smikle, Naomi White, Fatmata Janneh and Kennedy Fauntleroy.