EDITOR’S NOTE
Many of you probably relate: The sun setting before 5 pm is. not. it. Let’s just say my wellness and fitness routines are in flux — it might be time to give these morning workout tips a try. And to add these massage bars and serotonin bath salts to my cart — you know, for the days when I’m definitely not leaving the house for the gym. Still, I’m finding some sparks of motivation: Like Simone Biles revealing she’s tackling a whole new sport (she can win gold in anything). And Naomi Osaka and Taylor Townsend are reminding us that hard work — grueling tennis season or not — might just pay off with a boat vacation with your BFF. Enjoy the offseason, ladies. Now, let’s get to what else is making sports headlines…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
Let's Discuss
Another League, Another Scandal
What's going on: It’s hard to believe any professional athlete would intentionally rig a game, especially with thousands of people watching. (First, how embarrassing. Second, don’t you always want to win?) But that’s exactly what federal prosecutors say two MLB pitchers did as part of a gambling scheme. Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz are facing multiple charges, including fraud conspiracy, for allegedly helping gamblers rake in over $450,000. How? Prosecutors claim the players tipped off bettors about their pitches (think: manipulating ball speed and throwing balls vs. strikes), in exchange for a cut. Lawyers for both players say their clients are innocent, but this is one game plan MLB wants nothing to do with.
Our take: Professional sports are facing a reckoning over gambling. Just last month, a similar betting scandal allegedly involving former and current NBA players and coaches rocked the league. While the majority of US states have legalized sports betting, rigging a game or performance for a payout remains very much illegal. Now, some leagues are playing catch-up to curb these bets and maintain the integrity of the game. That’s no easy task, given that people aren’t just betting on whether a team wins or loses, but are also placing everything from “microbets” to prop bets. At least these problems aren’t as widespread in women’s sports — oh wait, some gamblers are trying to cash in on period bets…
Related: Her Husband Gambled Nearly $1M on Sports (The Guardian)
Pick Six
More sports talkers you don't want to miss.
👀 Caitlin Clark has returned to play — just not on the basketball court. The tee never looked better.
🏈 Another NFL coach got the pink slip. Hut, hut — out.
🥰 Grab the tissues, one little boy had the sweetest reaction to meeting A’ja Wilson. This one’s going in the Hall of Feelings.
😭 Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest update is devastating fans. Guess he’ll have more time for wedding planning.
☕️ The latest “it” accessory of the sports season isn’t what we expected.
❌ Jason Kelce was Not Gonna Lie about this fan’s Monday Night Countdown sign. Kylie probably shares the same feelings.
Timeout...
What's that new league dribbling onto the scene?
Project B is a new global basketball league that’s quickly gaining name recognition thanks to the talent it’s signed on. Earlier this month, Seattle Storm forward Nneka Ogwumike announced she’s joining one of the league’s six teams. Now, Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas is the second WNBA player to confirm she’s also joining the roster. The league, which features a 5-on-5 play format, isn’t expected to tip off until November 2026, with games in Europe and Asia. And while it won’t directly compete with the WNBA season, sports analysts say Project B only ramps up pressure on the WNBA amid ongoing contract negotiations. That’s because Project B players are expected to receive a higher salary than they do in the WNBA.
Related: Paige Bueckers Will Soon Be Sporting a New Team Jersey (NBC Sports)
Kicking It Into High Gear
The stage is set for the semifinals this weekend. Tune in for all the action on the pitch and to see who advances to the 2025 NWSL Championship.
Put Us in, Coach
This week on our sports and culture show, Well Played:
If the agent for QB Daniel Jones is any good, they’re pursuing a Sephora collab as we speak.
Is Megan Thee Stallion’s boyfriend the NBA’s greenest flag?
Prince Harry apologized to Canadians and revealed the real reason he wore that Dodgers hat. (Prince William may have advice.)
Plus, Gotham FC’s Jaedyn Shaw spills on that NWSL match that had the whole sports world hyped.
No Notes
Just Trust Us
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
Not sure which sneakers are the best for your next Zumba class? Our shopping editors did a deep dive to get you answers — and found 12 perfect pairs.
Baseball season may be over, but we just found the best neck pillow for long travel days, that will surprise and delight any die-hard fans on your list. Plus, it’s on sale.
Bad news: Your water bottle isn’t as clean as you think. Good news: We found the perfect under-$20 replacement.
Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).
Live Smarter
Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.