Texas Motor Speedway has become NASCAR’s most disparaged track, an annual punching bag that drivers and fans alike feel guiltless about holding as an object of derision.

How did we get here?

Jeff Gluck explains.

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Ohio State is paying Chip Kelly $2 million to be its new offensive coordinator, according to contracts obtained by The Athletic.

The contract runs through Jan. 31, 2027.

More details from Cameron Teague ⤵️
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Where would Bronny James be drafted in 2024 if it was purely based on the merits of his game and not his last name?

Sam Vecenie asked five people who work for NBA teams.

Here’s what they said: theathletic.com/5397910/2024/0…

NEWS: Rimas Sports — an agency launched last year by recording artist Bad Bunny — is facing significant punishment from the MLBPA, including at least one license revoked, sources tell Britt Ghiroli.

The reason for the discipline is unknown.

Details ⤵️
theathletic.com/5411135/2024/0…

Some sink into depression. Others, addiction. Plenty admit to feeling aimless for months, even years.

Who are former pro football players supposed to be after the game stops?

That's exactly what's explored on the 'Second Acts' podcast.

✍️ Zak Keefer

theathletic.com/5350732/2024/0…

In 19 seasons, Sidney Crosby has never prioritized individual accolades over team achievements.

Leading these Penguins to the playoffs would be one of his greatest achievements.

✍️ Rob Rossi

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If this isn’t exoneration for Shohei Ohtani, it’s as good as it gets.

He wouldn't be the first sports legend to be duped out of millions because of carelessness or mismanagement.

But people will believe what they want to believe.

✍️ Ken Rosenthal

theathletic.com/5409424/2024/0…

The reveal of Nike’s kits for Team USA’s track and field Olympians has sparked controversy.

Professional runners, Olympic hopefuls and fans zeroed in on the featured women’s one-piece suit, which is unusually high-cut on the legs.

Details ⤵️
theathletic.com/5410677/2024/0…

As a high schooler, Iowa's Cooper DeJean was a four-sport legend.

Could he be a cornerback in the NFL? A safety? Some hybrid of both?

The answer will help determine his draft stock.

Nick Baumgardner on how his skills might fit at the next level ⤵️
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It's official.

The University of Kentucky has named Mark Pope its men's basketball coach, the school announced.

Bronny James entered the 2024 NBA Draft, while maintaining his collegiate eligibility.

◽️How would his game translate to the pros?

◽️If he stays in college, where could he go?

◽️How does being LeBron’s son impact his stock?

More from Sam Vecenie ⤵️
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Today, Anchorage Man reveals his NBA Pre-Postseason Player Tiers 1 and 2.

The top two tiers get interesting because the placements get challenging.

And then there's a certain French phenom who's working his way up.

More ⤵️
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In the words of Diana Taurasi, Caitlin Clark is due for a reckoning when she gets to the WNBA.

What will her transition from Iowa look like?

Sabreena Merchant on the increased physicality, size and strength Clark can expect ⤵️

theathletic.com/5409936/2024/0…

Formula One has revealed its calendar for the 2025 season which will start in Australia and feature 24 races once again.

It will be the first time that Australia has hosted the opening race of the F1 season since 2019.

More from Luke Smith ⤵️
theathletic.com/5410367/2024/0…

“Second Acts,” the podcast hosted by Charles Tillman and Roman Harper, is a forum for ex-NFL players to get real.

It's centered on “the transition” — the phase in life that scares most pro athletes to their core.

Who are they supposed to be after the game stops?

✍️ Zak Keefer

Three weeks ago, a potential betting scandal involving baseball’s biggest star, Shohei Ohtani, turned the sport upside down.

Yesterday, in a shockingly fast turn of events, the matter has seemingly been resolved.

The Pulse ⤵️
theathletic.com/5410091/2024/0…

Only 5% of the 128 women at Wimbledon in 2023 had female coaches.

Led by Ukrainian prospect Marta Kostyuk and Sandra Zaniewska, that figure is finally on the rise.

✍️ Matt Futterman

theathletic.com/5406034/2024/0…

Should Bryson DeChambeau’s 7-under 65 to lead the opening round at Augusta National come as a shock?

That depends on how you look at it.

Golf’s mad scientist wasn’t high on many favorites lists.

Here's how he's pulled it off ⤵️
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