MVP JALEN BRUNSON MAKES NBA HISTORY | NBA FINALS 2026

Jalen Brunson became the first player in NBA history to win the NBA Cup, the Conference Finals MVP, and the NBA Finals MVP in the same season.

🔸NBA Finals MVP

🔸Conference Finals MVP

🔸NBA Cup MVP 

THE BATTLE FOR THE NBA MVP AWARD

 

JAKE PAUL EXPANDS BOXING REACH WITH SKY SPORTS PARTNERSHIP

Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Jake Paul has taken another step in boxing promotion, as Most Valuable Promotions secured a multi-year broadcast deal with Sky Sports and NOW. The agreement makes Sky Sports the exclusive home for MVP’s women’s boxing platform, MVPW, in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The deal focuses on expanding coverage of women’s boxing through regular events on traditional television. It also guarantees at least two all-female fight cards each year in the region. The move strengthens MVP’s presence outside the United States and adds another major broadcast partner as the promotion continues to grow its global reach.

MVPW Launch Set for London With Title Unification Fight

The partnership begins with MVPW-01 on April 5 at London’s Olympia. The event will feature a world title unification bout between Caroline Dubois and Terri Harper. Dubois holds the WBC lightweight title, while Harper enters as the WBO champion.

The fight brings together two top British fighters in a high-level matchup. Dubois, who is also Daniel Dubois’s sister, will aim to add another title. Harper brings experience across multiple weight classes and enters the bout with a record of competing in major fights.

Jake Paul and MVP Outline Vision for Women’s Boxing

Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, who co-founded MVP in 2021, explained the platform’s goal in a joint statement.

“Through MVPW, we are committed to delivering meaningful opportunities for fighters while producing premium events that expand the global reach and commercial potential of women’s boxing.”

“Bringing two premium all-female MVPW events to the UK and Ireland each year, starting with the historic MVPW-01 on Sunday April 5 at London’s Olympia, is exactly what we envisioned when we launched this platform.”

The pair also pointed to the strength of British talent. “We have the best female British boxers in the world and Sky Sports is the perfect home to showcase the elite talent and championship-level action that defines MVPW.”

“Together, we’re committed to continuing to elevate women’s boxing to the main stage it deserves, delivering unforgettable nights for fans across the UK and beyond.”

Broadcast Deal Expands Most Valuable Promotions’ Global Footprint

The agreement comes as Sky Sports continues to build its boxing coverage following changes in its previous partnerships. For MVP, the deal strengthens its presence in the United States and supports its focus on women’s boxing.

Paul has combined his role as a fighter and promoter to grow the brand. He has competed against the likes of Anderson Silva and Mike Tyson while promoting events that highlight female fighters.

The new partnership sets a clear structure for future events and increases visibility for women’s boxing in the UK and Ireland. With MVPW-01 set for April 5, the first event will serve as the starting point for the expanded platform under the new broadcast deal.

- Dogli Wilberforce

SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER IS STILL THE.MVP 🔥

 

NAPHEESA COLLIER | WNBA ALL-STAR MVP

 

SHAI GILGEOUS -ALEXANDER WINS THE 2025 NBA FINALS MVP | FULL SPEECH

 

NBA MVP WINNERS | BY NATIONALITY

 

SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER'S KIA NBA MVP PRESENTATION

A TRUE MVP | BASKETBALL LEGEND KOBE BRYANT

 

JAKE PAUL'S BOXING PROMOTION POUR COLD WATER ON $500MILLION CONOR MCGREGOR V LOGAN PAUL REPORTS

Photos by Getty Images

Jake Paul’s boxing promotion have called foul on talks about his brother Logan’s big $250million fight.

The controversial brothers have taken the combat world by storm, with Logan Paul becoming a star in the WWE while Jake is taking over boxing. However, it seems that Conor McGregor prefers the older sibling as an opponent for his return to the ring next year.

McGregor has claimed that there are ‘preliminary agreements’ for a fight between he and the elder Paul brother in India next year. And he yesterday stoked the fire further by sharing a seeming hoax report that they would be making $250million each for the bout.

Conor McGregor reposts troll report that he will make $250million to face Logan Paul

Last night, a report from a social media account claiming to be former TalkSPORT journalist Michael Benson managed to trick news outlets into reporting a number of falsehoods about Conor McGregor vs Logan Paul.

The ‘report’ cited an imaginary Dan Rafael quote claiming that both men would make $250million, and that the fight would take place at the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai. It also said that the event would headline a ‘Visit India’ tourism drive, which appears to not be a real campaign.

However, what made it more remarkable was when McGregor’s news outlet The Mac Life shared the claims, as if they were legitimate. And the Irishman collaborated on the post, meaning that it showed up to his 47.1million followers.

It follows his initial claims about the fight having ‘preliminary agreements’ in place earlier this month. “The rumors of a bout with [UFC featherweight champion Ilia] Topuria are false,” he wrote in a tweet on X on December 17.

“I am in preliminary agreements with the Ambani family to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India. I have agreed. I will then seek my return to the Octagon.”

Jake Paul’s Promotion play down Logan Paul and Conor McGregor fight talks

However, not everybody is convinced that McGregor is telling the truth. Logan’s brother Jake Paul owns the boxing promotion Most Valuable Promotions, which put on his fight with Mike Tyson in Texas last month.

And underneath McGregor’s post, they commented with three hat emojis, essentially saying “Cap on cap on cap.” Jake is believed to have been the original opponent wanted by the Ambani family to face McGregor, but claims that his team refused to enter into talks without the UFC or Dana White directly.

Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

“Now it all makes sense why Conor McGregor and his management team have been desperately trying to get MVP to negotiate for a fight between us,” he wrote on X to his 4.7million followers in his first post since the Irishman’s initial tweet..

“As we told them them privately & I’m now saying it publicly… The only way we’re willing to explore me vs Conor in a pro boxing / mma fight is if Dana White / UFC are at the table directly or make it clear they are ok with discussions. Conor is washed. Needs the Paul’s. Logan by however he wants.”

- Donagh Corby

MIAMI STAR, LIONEL MESSI NAMED MLS, MVP, SETS GOAL-SCORING MARK

Lionel Messi was named winner of the Landon Donovan MVP Award for the 2024 MLS season Friday, beating out the Columbus Crew's Cucho Hernández, the Portland Timbers' Evander, Christian Benteke from D.C. United and his Inter Miami teammate Luis Suárez.

Messi, 37, won thanks to his 20 goals and 16 appearances in just 19 matches.

He joins Carlos Vela in 2019 (LAFC, 34 goals, 15 assists) and Sebastian Giovinco in 2015 (Toronto FC, 22 goals, 16 assists) as the only players in league history with at least 20 goals and 15 assists in a single season.

The MVP award is determined by a poll that includes players, club technical staff and selected members of the media. Messi received 38.43% of the votes averaged compared to second-place finisher Benteke (33.70%).

This was his first full season with the club, having joined in July 2023.

MLS commissioner Don Garber made the announcement Friday alongside Inter Miami Academy students and Messi's three sons in a video.

"Truly, it is an honor for me to receive this award from all of you," Messi said to the Academy players. "It's a source of pride to watch you all train. I'm very happy to be here every day. I'm very happy to be in this city, in this Club that is growing. It's a pleasure to see you grow day by day. I invite you to keep fighting and striving for your dreams."

Messi received his MVP award from his sons, Thiago, Ciro, Mateo, and the Inter Miami youth academy. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Miami captain won the award despite playing in only 55% of competitive matches of the 34-game regular season. He missed 62 days between June 1 and Sept. 14 with an ankle injury sustained during Argentina's win over Colombia in the Copa América final.

During this time, the Herons played well, winning eight of nine games without him.

The award considers a player's contributions and impact on the pitch at a minimum of 1,000 minutes played in the regular season, which is the league requirement for an MVP nomination.

Per FotMob, Messi averaged more than one goal every 90 minutes, which led the league. In 1,485 minutes, Messi averaged 2.18 goal contributions per match, which is a league record, according to MLS.

The MLS MVP trophy is yet another entry on the absurdly long list of career honors for Messi. He's an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, eight-time FIFA player of the year winner, a seven-time LaLiga MVP, past UEFA player of the year, past Champions League player of the season, World Cup golden ball winner, Club World Cup golden ball winner, and the list goes on from there.

"Unless you're living in the world of global football, it's hard to imagine the overall appeal and the massive popularity and stardom that Leo Messi has," Garber said. "I mean, he is Michael Jackson meeting Taylor Swift -- and he's playing in our league."

His numbers and impact on the pitch helped Inter Miami win the Supporters' Shield and set the single-season points record this season with 74 points. Despite its strong regular season -- earning the No. 1 seed for the postseason -- Inter Miami lost to Atlanta United in the first round of the playoffs, ending their 2024 campaign in a disappointing way.

In November, Gerardo "Tata" Martino, who had taken the coaching role in June of 2023, resigned for personal reasons. Miami named Javier Mascherano -- a former Barcelona and Argentina teammate and friend of Messi -- to replace Martino.

The MLS Cup final is on Saturday in Carson, California, where the LA Galaxy host the New York Red Bulls. The Galaxy look to win a record sixth Cup, while the Red Bulls seek their first.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

- Luis Miguel Echegaray, ESPN

- 

AARON RODGERS: UNSURE ON '25, BUT JETS 'WOULD BE MY FIRST '

Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is undecided on whether he wants to continue his legendary career in 2025. If he does, he wants it to be with the New York Jets.

The four-time MVP, appearing Tuesday on "The Pat McAfee Show," addressed his future amid reports over the weekend that said he wants out of New York and that he could be benched or even released by the end of the season.

"I don't even know if I want to play yet, but New York would be my first option," Rodgers said during his weekly appearance, commenting on next season.

Rodgers, who turns 41 next Monday, said he will base his decision on how his body feels and whether the Jets want him back.

"You want to be in a spot where you feel like you can win and you're valued," said Rodgers, mired in one of the worst statistical seasons of his career.

The choice might not be his.

The Jets (3-8), who fired coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas, will have a new regime in 2025. The new leaders may opt to cut ties with Rodgers, who is signed for 2025 but has no guaranteed money remaining in his contract. They could turn the position over to current backup Tyrod Taylor and a highly drafted rookie.

Rodgers used his spot on the show to deny various reports, including a report by The Athletic that he wants to play in 2025, just not for the Jets.

"That's 100% false," he said, adding that he's "not jumping off the ship."

But he created waves by expressing uncertainty about his desire to keep playing. When asked two weeks ago if he wants to play in 2025, Rodgers said, "Yeah, I think so" -- hardly a convincing yes. A few days later, the Jets' disappointing season unraveled even further with a crushing last-minute loss to the Indianapolis Colts and the firing of Douglas.

Rodgers mulled retirement after the 2022 season, ultimately deciding during his infamous darkness retreat that he wanted to continue. The Green Bay Packers traded him to the Jets in April 2023. His goal, he said, was to give "two good seasons" to the Jets. His 2023 season lasted only four snaps before he ruptured his left Achilles, and he joked that this season hasn't been that good, either.

"When you're 40, going on 41, you're obviously at the end of your career," he said. "... Obviously, if it's New York, they have to want me to be here. And then the new GM, new staff all have to want me to be with the Jets. And then body-wise, I have to see how I'm feeling and if I want to sign up to go back to the grind and all that, but it feels good. I'm healthy now.

"It's not as much fun when you're dealing with rehab all the time. So, if I can stay healthy the rest of the year and play the way I want to play, and everybody feels good about bringing me back, then there's a decision there. And if not, then there's all the other options. I think, at this point, I'm open to everything and attached to nothing. So, it's a good place to be."

Rodgers battled hamstring, knee and ankle injuries earlier in the season, no doubt contributing to his pedestrian numbers -- 17 touchdown passes, seven interceptions. There were reports that he could be benched or placed on injured reserve or even released by the end of the season.

On Monday, interim coach Jeff Ulbrich said there has been no internal discussion about shutting down the future Hall of Famer. He said Rodgers will "absolutely" start Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks and that "a healthy Aaron Rodgers is an Aaron Rodgers we all love."

Rodgers made it clear that he wants to keep playing even though the Jets have virtually no shot at the playoffs.

"I will not willingly go on IR without an injury," he said.

"... If I can stay healthy the rest of the year and play the way I want to play, and everybody feels good about bringing me back, then there's a decision there. And if not, then there's all the other options. I think, at this point, I'm open to everything and attached to nothing. So, it's a good place to be."

Aaron Rodgers

He confirmed that he hasn't had any medical imaging tests for his injuries, insisting he didn't need them because he trusted his own gut feeling and the evaluations of the team's medical staff.

The Rodgers experiment has been a major disappointment for the Jets, who are 10-18 since the trade (including the 16 games he missed). He acknowledged the two seasons have been "frustrating and difficult," but not a total loss.

"These have been two of the most important years of my life and two of the best years of my life," he said.

Rodgers said he felt bad that Douglas was fired last week. It happened after a bye-week practice. Rodgers said he noticed owner Woody Johnson arriving via helicopter during practice, as he often does. This time, he had a funny feeling.

"I just knew something might be going down here, and I was like, 'Damn, I hope it's not Joe,'" said Rodgers, who learned during a flight to California that Douglas had been fired.

- Rich Cimini, ESPN Staff Writer

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM MOST VALUABLE PROMOTIONS | MVP

 

MVP CALLS CLAIMS JAKE PAUL VS. MIKE TYSON WAS RIGGED 'ILLOGICAL'

MVP

Most Valuable Promotions released a statement Monday regarding the growing controversy that Jake Paul's unanimous decision victory over Mike Tyson was fixed, calling the allegations "illogical and inane."

The YouTuber-turned-prizefighter Paul, 27, dominated the iconic former heavyweight champion in their Nov. 15 clash at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The event was a massive success with an $18.1 million gate, the largest for any U.S. fight outside of Las Vegas, and was streamed on Netflix with over 108 million live global viewers. However, the 58-year-old Tyson delivered a lackluster performance with skeptics questioning the fight's integrity.

Amid the swirling controversy, MVP -- led by Paul and Nakisa Bidarian -- has responded to those questioning whether the fight was fixed for Paul to win.

"Both fighters in good faith performed to the best of their abilities with the goal of winning the fight," the statement read. "There were absolutely no restrictions -- contractual or otherwise -- around either fighter. Each boxer was able to use his full arsenal to win the fight. Any agreement to the contrary would violate TDLR (Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations) boxing rules."

Social media was flooded with posts suggesting the fight was scripted, with a fake script even being circulated. While the script was debunked, doubt about the legitimacy of the fight persists. Paul's admission that he took his foot off the gas in the middle rounds, rather than pursue a knockout, only fueled suspicions of a rigged fight.

"It is further illogical and inane that MVP, in the debut of a hopeful long-term partnership with the world's biggest streamer -- an organization that made its first-ever foray into live professional sports with Paul vs. Tyson -- would even so much as consider such a perverse violation of the rules of competition," the statement continued.

Bidarian has remained adamant in many interviews following the fight that there was no foul play in his business partner's victory.

"This is not the first time Jake Paul has faced unfounded skepticism or outright disbelief as a professional athlete, and frankly, the claim that his bout must have been rigged is just the latest backhanded compliment to come his way," said Bidarian. "From day one in this sport, people have doubted his abilities -- unable to reconcile how someone with his background has accomplished so much in such a short time. Jake has not only proven himself repeatedly, but he continues to set historic records that speak for themselves.

"This event, which broke attendance and viewership milestones for a professional sporting event, is yet another example of his ability to deliver on the biggest stage. As long as Jake continues to exceed expectations, there will always be those who try to discredit his achievements. We embrace the doubt -- it only fuels Jake to work harder and achieve greater success."

- Andreas Hale, ESPN

DODGERS' SHOHEI OHTANI, YANKEES' AARON JUDGE UNANIMOUS MVPS

Photo By Winslow Townson/Getty Images

Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge make up the pinnacle of their profession, baseball's two biggest stars representing its two most prestigious franchises. Their meeting in last month's World Series solidified it -- and their latest honor commemorated it.

Ohtani and Judge captured the Most Valuable Player awards in their respective leagues Thursday, both doing so unanimously. Ohtani won his third in four years, all of them coming by unanimous vote. Judge's second -- which comes two years after he edged Ohtani for the American League honor with a home-run-record-breaking season -- came on the heels of one of the best offensive performances in baseball history.

And yet the exploits of Judge's season somehow paled in comparison to what his National League counterpart accomplished over the past 12 months.

In that time, Ohtani signed an unprecedented $700 million contract, became the first 50/50 player in baseball history, helped his Los Angeles Dodgers defeat Judge's New York Yankees for the championship and ultimately became the first full-time designated hitter to win an MVP -- all while rehabbing a second major elbow surgery that prevented him from pitching.

"I'm very happy, obviously, to win the award," Ohtani, speaking through an interpreter, said on a conference call. "My goal was to be able to pitch and contribute offensively, and the fact that I knew I wasn't going to be able to pitch this season just made me focus more on my offensive game. Fortunately, I was able to produce and get this award, which is very humbling."

Ohtani became the 12th player to win three MVPs and the second to do so within his first seven seasons, joining Stan Musial, according to ESPN Research. Before Ohtani, Frank Robinson was the only player to win the award in both leagues (1961 NL, 1966 AL).

Ohtani led the NL in homers (54), RBIs (130) and OPS (1.036) while adding 59 stolen bases -- 33 more than his previous career high. His first season as a Dodger began with his longtime interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, being indicted for stealing millions from Ohtani in a betting scandal and ended in World Series victory, a fitting capstone to Ohtani's first trip to the playoffs. In between, Ohtani set the Dodgers' single-season record for home runs, stole more bases than any Japanese-born player in baseball history, became the first DH to lead his league in wins above replacement and joined Ty Cobb as the only player to finish within the top two in the majors in both homers and steals.

Before Ohtani, nobody had ever won multiple MVPs unanimously, let alone three.

"Obviously I moved to a new league and everything's been kind of a new experience," Ohtani said. "There's so many great players in the National League, obviously, and to be able to win the award unanimously is a great feeling. I'm very proud of that. Hopefully in the upcoming seasons I'll continue to be able to perform to this high level."

Judge and Ohtani each captured all 30 first-place votes from the Baseball Writers' Association of America. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor finished second to Ohtani with 23 second-place votes, and Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte finished third, earning five second-place votes. In the AL, Bobby Witt Jr., the Kansas City Royals' young superstar shortstop, received all 30 second-place votes. Juan Soto, the high-profile free agent who spent all season batting in front of Judge in the Bronx, finished third.

Judge led the majors in homers (58), RBIs (144), OPS (1.159) and FanGraphs wins above replacement (11.2) in a 2024 season that saw the 6-foot-7, 282-pound slugger spend most of his time in center field and lead the Yankees to a pennant. Judge's 223 adjusted OPS was the highest among right-handed hitters since 1900, according to ESPN Research. He became the third player with at least 50 homers and an adjusted OPS of 200 or more, joining Babe Ruth and Barry Bonds.

Judge is the seventh Yankee to win multiple MVPs, joining Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Alex Rodriguez and Roger Maris. Before Judge, Mantle's 1956 season was the only one in Yankees history to yield a unanimous MVP vote.

Since his first full season in 2017, when he was voted AL Rookie of the Year and finished second in MVP voting, Judge leads the majors in FanGraphs wins above replacement (51.4), weighted runs created plus (176), slugging percentage (.611) and home runs (311) despite sitting out significant time in three of those eight seasons. He broke the AL home run record in 2022, going deep 62 times, but he was better in practically every other offensive category in 2024, slashing .322/.458/.701 despite a brutal first month.

"March and April were not my friend this year," Judge, who did not take part in the standard BBWAA conference call, told MLB Network. "It's a long season. You're going to go through some ups, you're going to go through some downs. It's just about leaning on your teammates, your family and just putting in the work. I think that's what it comes down to -- just keep putting in the work and things are going to change. You can't mope. You can't feel sorry for yourself. Especially in New York -- nobody's going to feel sorry for you."

Of Judge's 58 home runs in 2024, a whopping 23 gave his team the lead. But his season ended in bitter fashion, with Judge going 4-for-18 in the World Series and making a key error -- dropping a fly ball to help set up what became a five-run fifth inning -- in the decisive Game 5 on Oct. 30.

Six days later, Ohtani underwent surgery to repair a labrum tear in his left, non-throwing shoulder, the result of an injury he sustained on an attempted steal in Game 2 of the World Series. Ohtani has since removed the stitches from his surgically repaired shoulder and is focusing on range-of-motion exercises in the early stages of his ramp-up.

"The goal is to be ready for Opening Day. That includes hitting and pitching," Ohtani said. "But we are kind of taking our time, obviously. We want to make sure that I'm healthy first; we're not going to rush anything."

It wasn't until his fourth season in the big leagues that Ohtani emerged as a two-way force. He came over from Japan and made nine starts for the Los Angeles Angels before sustaining a tear in his ulnar collateral ligament that ultimately led to Tommy John surgery in 2018, restricting him to DH for most of his first two years. The 2021 season -- coming off a brutal showing in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season -- was the start of a historic three-year stretch in which Ohtani produced a .964 OPS with 124 homers and 57 stolen bases, and also a 2.84 ERA and 542 strikeouts in 428⅓ innings.

A second UCL repair followed, preventing Ohtani from pitching beyond August 2023. It did not prevent another dream-like season. Ohtani dismissed outsized pressure, focused on becoming a better base stealer and produced some of the season's most memorable moments even before hoisting the World Series trophy. He hit a walk-off grand slam to join the 40/40 club and put together one of history's best single-game performances -- with three home runs, two steals and 10 RBIs in Miami on Sept. 19 -- to reach the 50/50 mark and solidify his first postseason berth.

Ohtani is unquestionably at the top of the sport.

Judge is up there, too.

"When I hear that, I think people are coming for the spot," Judge told MLB Network. "You got to keep putting in the work."

- Alden Gonzalez, ESPN Staff Writer

TWO-TIME AL MVP SHOHEI OHTANI FINALIST FOR FIRST NL AWARD

NEW YORK -- Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is a finalist for his first National League MVP award -- after twice winning the American League honor -- and is joined among the top three in NL voting by New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor and Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte.

New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge is a finalist for his second AL MVP in three seasons, joined by Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and Yankees outfielder Juan Soto.

Ohtani was unanimously voted the AL MVP in 2021 and 2023 as a two-way star for the Los Angeles Angels and finished second to Judge in 2022. Ohtani signed a record $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers in December, but he didn't pitch in 2024 following elbow surgery.

Ohtani would join Frank Robinson for the Cincinnati Reds in 1961 and the Baltimore Orioles in 1966 as the only players to win the MVP award in both leagues.

The Pittsburgh Pirates' Paul Skenes is a finalist in balloting for the NL Cy Young Award and NL Rookie of the Year. The 22-year-old right-hander becomes the fifth rookie to finish among the top three in Cy Young Award voting, after Mark Fidrych (1976), Fernando Valenzuela (1981), Dwight Gooden (1984) and José Fernández (2013). The only one to win both awards in the same year was Valenzuela in the NL.

Ohtani hit .310, stole 59 bases and led the NL with 54 homers and 130 RBIs exclusively as a designated hitter, becoming the first player with 50 or more homers and 50 or more stolen bases in a season. He helped the Dodgers to the World Series title, playing the final three games with a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

Ohtani would become the first primary DH to win an MVP award.

The top three finishers in voting for each of the major individual awards presented annually by the Baseball Writers' Association of America were announced Monday night on MLB Network. Winners will be revealed next week.

Balloting was conducted before the postseason.

Ohtani would become the 12th player with three or more MVPs, joining Barry Bonds (seven) and Jimmie Foxx, Joe DiMaggio, Stan Musial, Roy Campanella, Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle, Mike Schmidt, Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols and Mike Trout (three each).

Shohei Ohtani would join Frank Robinson for Cincinnati in 1961 and Baltimore in 1966 as the only players to win the MVP award in both leagues. Allison Dinner/EPA

Lindor batted .273 with 33 homers, 91 RBIs and 29 steals, while Marte hit .292 with 36 homers and 95 RBIs.

Judge led the major leagues with 58 homers, 144 RBIs and 133 walks while hitting .322. Witt topped the big leagues with a .332 average while hitting 32 homers with 109 RBIs. Soto batted .288 with 41 homers and 109 RBIs.

Atlanta's Chris Sale and Philadelphia's Zack Wheeler are NL Cy Young Award finalists along with Skenes, who made his big league debut May 11 and went 11-3 with a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts, striking out 170 in 133 innings.

Detroit's Tarik Skubal, Kansas City's Seth Lugo and Cleveland closer Emmanuel Clase are the finalists for the AL honor. Clase becomes the first reliever to finish among the top three in voting since San Diego's Trevor Hoffman came in second in 2006 NL balloting.

Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill and Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio joined Skenes as finalists for NL Rookie of the Year. Yankees right-hander Luis Gil and catcher Austin Wells are AL finalists along with Baltimore outfielder Colton Cowser.

Cleveland's Stephen Vogt, Kansas City's Matt Quatraro and Detroit's AJ Hinch are finalists for AL Manager of the Year. The three NL finalists were all first-year managers with their teams: the Mets' Carlos Mendoza, Milwaukee's Pat Murphy and San Diego's Mike Shildt.

- Associated Press

RAVENS NEWS: QB LAMAR JACKSONAKES NFL HISTORY IN GAME VS. CHIEFS

© Scott Taetsch/Getty ImagesLamar Jackson, quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens

Lamar Jackson has really improved in recent years, and now the quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens has made history in the Week 1 game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Lamar Jackson’s surprising admission on the last time Ravens faced Mahomes’ Chiefs

Ravens MVP Lamar Jackson reveals Tom Brady as his motivation for the new NFL season.

The 2024 season has kicked off for the Baltimore Ravens, who faced the Kansas City Chiefs on the road, with Lamar Jackson making NFL history during the game.

Lamar Jackson has shown significant improvement in recent years. Initially known more for his running ability than his passing, Jackson has refined his throwing skills and become a more well-rounded quarterback.

According to oddsmakers, the Ravens are strong contenders for the upcoming Super Bowl. However, their first challenge of the season was formidable, as they had to take on the reigning champions away from home.

Lamar Jackson passes Russell Wilson in astonishing NFL stat

Everyone is aware of Lamar Jackson’s remarkable skills. When he started his career, numerous analysts were convinced that he would do a better job as a wide receiver or a running back rather than a quarterback.

Nevertheless, he worked really hard to prove his critics wrong and improved his passing abilities. Now, Jackson is a very complete quarterback, being both a menace through the air and on the ground.

The 2024 season started with a tough game for Baltimore, as they had to face the Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. While the Ravens struggled offensively in the first half, Lamar Jackson was able to make history in the first two quarters.

The quarterback used his rushing abilities to run for 63 yards on eight carries during the first half. With these yards, Lamar Jackson passed Russell Wilson as the third quarterback with the most rushing yards in NFL history.

Lamar Jackson #8 of the Baltimore Ravens warms up prior to the AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs at M&T Bank Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland.

While Wilson still has a chance to add more rushing yards, Lamar Jackson will likely play for more years to increase his numbers. Russell Wilson entered the season with 5,307 rushing yards, while Jackson had 5,258 prior to the game against Kansas City.

Who is the quarterback with the most rushing yards in NFL history?

The quarterback with the most rushing yards in NFL history is Michael Vick. Over his career, Vick amassed 6,109 rushing yards, setting the record with his dynamic playmaking and mobility as a quarterback.

Lamar Jackson is just a few yards away from breaking the record, and it appears he might achieve it this year. If he remains healthy, he could set a milestone that may remain unmatched for several years.

- Fernando Franco Puga

STEPHEN A SAYS CATLIN CLARK IS IN THE CONVERSATION FOR MVP

Stephen A. Smith says the Rookie of the Year race is over, and Caitlin Clark is in the conversation for MVP

“There is no debate. I understand Angel Reese has been doing her thing with the double-doubles—like, 24 straight double-doubles and all that. Major props to her, and she deserves it; she's gonna be number 2. But Caitlin Clark is gonna win Rookie of the Year. Caitlin Clark is in the conversation—she ain't gonna win it because A’ja Wilson is there. But Caitlin Clark is in the conversation for league MVP. I don't know if you already know that, but she's in the conversation—league MVP as a rookie.”

(Via @FirstTake )

MICHAEL JORDAN SETTLES THE GOAT 🐐 DEBATE WITH PERFECT ANSWER THAT FANS HAD NEVER HEARD BEFORE

The legendary former Chicago Bulls star won six NBA championships.

Michael Jordan seen out in the French sunshine with his wife Yvette Prieto on their holidays in Saint Tropez. PHOTO: BACKGRID

 

Michael Jordan is unquestionably the GOAT of basketball and he once made it clear which of the six NBA championships he won with the Chicago Bulls was the best.

Jordan, 61, is one of the most famous sports stars in history following his extraordinary career in the NBA, which has seen him widely acclaimed by many as the greatest player ever to grace the sport.

Success on the basketball court saw him become NBA champion on a total of six occasions, all with the Chicago Bulls.

He was also crowned the MVP in the NBA Finals a total of six times, as well as being named the NBA's Most Valuable Player overall on five instances after playing for the Bulls and the Washington Wizards.

He transcended the sport of basketball and went beyond that, developing a partnership with Nike on his Air Jordan trainers, which has become one of the most recognisable sneaker brands in the world.

He also starred in the 1996 film Space Jam and was the focus of Emmy-winning documentary series The Last Dance in 2020, which appeared on internet streaming service Netflix.

But Jordan's time on the basketball court was the bedrock of his success and his exploits there, playing more than 1,200 regular season and play-off games in the NBA, holding points-per-game records across the course of his career.

Debate rages as to which of the six Chicago Bulls sides Jordan won the NBA with was the best - but the man himself once settled that debate by revealing which one is his favourite.

And the GOAT believes the 1996 roster was the best, as he outlined his reasoning in an interview that has resurfaced on TikTok which proved that there is no 'I' in team and laid down the gauntlet to anyone who feels there is a better side than that.

He said: "People always debated whose the greatest player of all time?

"Dumb question. It should be whose the greatest team of all time.

"You know, there are so many teams to choose from.

"The '91 Chicago Bulls. The '92 Bulls, back to back. The 93' Bulls, first three-peat.

"The '97 Bulls, even with the flu. The '98 Bulls, no push off.

"And my favourite, the '96 Chicago Bulls, 72 wins, tough to beat that.

"You think there's someone else? Prove it."

- John McDougall 

THE LATE LEGEND JERRY WEST IS THE ONLY MVP IN HISTORY TO WIN FROM OPPOSING TEAM

The only player in the nba to win mvp in opposing team;

Jerry West is the only player in NBA history to win the Finals MVP award while playing for the losing team.

In 1969, the inaugural year of the NBA Finals MVP award, Jerry West of the Los Angeles Lakers won the award despite his team losing to the Boston Celtics in the Finals. [2][3]

West averaged 37.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game in the 1969 Finals, putting up an incredible individual performance even though the Lakers ultimately fell to the Celtics. [3]

This remains the only time in NBA history that a player from the losing team in the Finals has been awarded the Finals MVP. Since then, the award has consistently gone to a player on the championship-winning team. [2][3]

Citations:

[1] NBA Most Valuable Player Award - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Most_Valuable_Player_Award

[2] NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Finals_Most_Valuable_Player_award

[3] 5 times when a player from the losing team should have won the NBA ... https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/5-times-player-losing-team-won-nba-finals-mvp-award

[4] Kawhi Leonard joins elite company in winning Finals MVP | NBA.com https://www.nba.com/news/finals-mvps-more-one-team

[5] Who is the only NBA player to win Finals MVP on a losing team? https://www.sportskeeda.com/basketball/who-nba-player-win-finals-mvp-losing-team

- Perplexity AI