Francis Ngannou, ex-UFC champ, announces death of 15-month-old son – NBC 7 San Diego

Initially appeared on E! On-line

Francis Ngannou is in mourning.

The previous UFC heavyweight champion shared on Monday that his 15-month-old son died April 27. Whereas Ngannou did not share his explanation for loss of life, he paid tribute to his late son on social media.

“Too quickly to depart however but he is gone,” he wrote over a black and white photograph together with his son, alongside his son’s start date and loss of life date. “My little boy, my mate, my companion Kobe was vigorous and pleasure. Now, he is laying with out life. I shouted his title again and again however he is not responding.”

The 37-year-old — who’s very guarded about his private life and has not shared who his son’s mom was — added he was his “finest self subsequent to” his son, saying that he would not know who he’s anymore.

“How do you take care of such a factor?” he continued. “How will you dwell with it? Please assist me if in case you have an thought as a result of I actually do not know what to do and how one can take care of this.”

Superstar Deaths: 2024’s Fallen Stars

Ngannou, 37, additionally shared about his sadness on X, previously Twitter, writing, “What is the function of life if what we’re combating tooth and nail to get away from is what lastly hit us the toughest!?”

Asking why life is “so unfair and cruel,” he additionally contemplated why it “at all times takes what we do not have.”

E! Information has reached out to Francis’ reps for remark.

Most of the Cameroon native’s mates within the MMA and UFC world shared their ideas and prayers, with Conor McGregor writing on X, “I’m so sorry to listen to of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your loved ones presently.”

Eric Nicksick, Ngannou’s coach, additionally shared a heartfelt message. “It has been a heavy few days, phrases cannot categorical the ache all of us really feel for the Ngannou household throughout this time,” he wrote on X. “Please preserve Francis and his household in your coronary heart, and will this be a reminder of the fragility of life. Say ‘I like you,’ extra usually, tomorrow is not assured.”

What Travis Kelce’s Contract Extension Really Means For The Chiefs Star

Simply two days after wrapping up the 2024 NFL Draft, the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs introduced an extension for future Corridor of Famer Travis Kelce.

“It’s an honor and a pleasure,” stated Kelce in a video posted on the Chiefs’ social media. “Chiefs without end!”

The contract extension for the Professional Bowl tight finish adds two years and $34.25 million to the 2 years remaining on his previous contract. He now has $17 million in totally assured cash in 2024 and is signed by way of 2027 when he’ll be 38.

Now that doesn’t imply the 34-year-old tight finish, who will flip 35 in October, will essentially play 4 extra years. (Longer contracts profit the group as a result of it could possibly unfold out the cash and manipulate the wage cap.)

But it surely does imply {that a} participant, who was extraordinarily underpaid, is lastly getting what he deserved.

Kelce may have a mean annual worth (AAV) of $17.125 million, which makes him the highest-paid tight finish for the primary time in his profession.

Previous to this extension, he was on a four-year, $57.25 million contract. That AAV of $14.3 million ranked fifth amongst all lively NFL tight ends.

His new deal is extra according to what a participant, who has 907 profession receptions for 11,328 yards and remains to be on the high of his sport, ought to obtain.

“The power that he brings is so contagious,” Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy stated. “He’s been doing this a very long time with a variety of success. When he brings that power, individuals simply feed off of it.”

Kelce caught 93 passes for 984 yards and 5 touchdowns in 2023, however these numbers would have been increased if he hadn’t chosen to take a seat out the final sport of the yr quite than pursue a report eighth straight 1,000-yard season.

Partly because of sitting out that sport, Kelce seemed refreshed within the playoffs, recording 32 catches for 355 yards and three landing whereas main the Chiefs to the Tremendous Bowl LVIII title.

In that sport Kelce recorded his fastest speed as a ballcarrier over the last seven seasons, demonstrating that he has not actually or figuratively slowed down.

He reached that high velocity of 19.68 mph on a vital play. His 22-yard reception with 16 seconds left arrange the Chiefs’ game-tying area aim to assist ship the sport into additional time.

Whereas retaining that sort of velocity, he discounted any rumors of a pending retirement although a booming leisure profession for Kelce, who’s in a extremely publicized relationship with megastar Taylor Swift, awaits.

“I’ve no motive to cease taking part in soccer, man. I adore it,” he stated. “I simply love the problem that it provides me each single day to attempt to be at my finest. Like I stated, I’ve no want to cease anytime quickly.”

If he does play till 38, he might break the all-time NFL marks of yardage (15,127) and receptions (1,325) for tight ends, which had been set by former Chiefs star Tony Gonzalez.

Kelce, although, is extra involved with profitable that stats.

“I’m considering extra Tremendous Bowls,” he stated, “once I discuss legacy.”

Travis Kelce extension: Chiefs GM says TE showing ‘no signs of slowing down,’ looking like he’s ’28 years old’

Travis Kelce reached a brand new cope with the Kansas Metropolis Chiefs that makes him the highest-paid tight finish within the NFL. The longer term Corridor of Famer will likely be in Kansas Metropolis for at the least two extra seasons till his age-36 season. 

Chiefs normal supervisor Brett Veach is assured Kelce will proceed enjoying at a excessive stage over the following two years — even perhaps longer. 

“From time to time you’ve considered one of these guys which can be outliers – and positively Travis (Kelce) is a type of gamers,’ Veach stated Monday. “It is humorous, it is not even Might but and right this moment we had an opportunity to get on the market in Section 2 and guys had been on the market operating round. Travis was the primary man in line, and he seemed like he was 28 years outdated. 

“Once more, the chances of somebody enjoying this far into their 30s may be very low, however it does occur, and it occurs with unicorns within the occupation, and Travis is a type of.”

Kelce had 93 catches for 984 yards and 5 touchdowns final season, his lowest yardage whole since 2015 and lowest landing whole since 2019. The nine-time Professional Bowl tight finish additionally was in his age-34 season, making some questioning if Kelce was beginning to decline. 

The postseason modified that narrative. Kelce completed with 32 catches for 355 yards and three touchdowns because the Chiefs gained their third Tremendous Bowl title in 5 years. This included 11 catches for 116 yards and a landing within the AFC Championship sport, and 9 catches for 93 yards in Tremendous Bowl LVIII. 

There’s nonetheless some historical past to be made for Kelce as he climbs up the document books on the all-time tight finish listing. Kelce has 11,328 receiving yards in his profession, simply 514 yards away from passing Antonio Gates (11,841) for third all time. Kelce is 3,800 receiving yards away from passing Tony Gonzalez (15,127) for probably the most receiving yards by a good finish in NFL historical past. 

The Chiefs imagine he can get there. Kelce is exhibiting no indicators of slowing down. 

“We’ll actually rejoice this with him and hopefully we will journey this factor even longer,” Veach stated. “We’ll simply have to attend and see, however he is proven no indicators of slowing down. Everybody notices the form of postseason he had; he simply discovered an additional gear. These particular gamers are at all times capable of finding that additional gear and once more if anyone can do it, Travis can.”

Jamal Murray makes another game-winner; Nuggets eliminate Lakers in Round 1

Jamal Murray (27) of the Denver Nuggets prepares to drag up for his eventual game-winning shot with fewer than 5 seconds to play throughout the fourth quarter of the Nuggets’ 108-106 win over the Los Angeles Lakers at Ball Area in Denver on Monday, April 29, 2024. The Nuggets eradicated the Lakers from the playoffs for the second straight yr by the use of a 4-1 collection victory. (Picture by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Submit)

Jamal Murray made a shot.

Once more.

And in a playoff collection that the Nuggets trailed extra minutes than they led, they received 4 of 5 video games.

Murray’s pull-up 14-footer with 3.6 seconds remaining handed the Nuggets a 108-106 Recreation 5 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers and a first-round collection win. Denver will advance to play the third-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves within the second spherical, beginning Saturday at Ball Area.

Regardless of a shaky taking pictures collection, Murray made two game-winners in consecutive house video games, each after Michael Malone didn’t name a timeout going into the ultimate possession. With the Nuggets trailing Monday night time, Murray additionally sank a go-ahead 3-pointer with 1:06 remaining within the fourth quarter after an Aaron Gordon offensive rebound in site visitors.

“Recreation 2, I went proper,” Murray mentioned, “and Recreation 5, I went left.”

Murray and Nikola Jokic grew to become a beacon of effectivity once more in clutch time, exchanging haymakers with the Lakers. On one sensible possession, Michael Porter Jr. fed Jokic within the put up from the appropriate wing, and Rui Hachimura waited to ship a double-team, fearing the new hand of Porter. When he dedicated, Murray anticipated the following rotation to Porter and minimize from the highest of the important thing for a dime from Jokic. He dunked on LeBron James for the lead. Murray completed with 32 factors on 13-of-28 taking pictures. The ultimate shot was successfully one other buzzer beater; Los Angeles didn’t have a timeout to advance the ball.

After it was tied at 95 with 4:30 remaining, the Nuggets scored on six of their final eight possessions, with all 13 clutch factors scored by Jokic or Murray. Jokic completed with 25 factors, 20 rebounds and 9 assists. James scored 30 to cleared the path for Los Angeles. Davis was by no means the identical after his damage.

“Essentially the most wonderful stat was (Jokic) was 0 of 0,” Malone mentioned. “He didn’t miss a free throw tonight.”

“Undoubtedly I didn’t need to play Thursday,” Jokic mentioned solemnly. “However if you happen to ask me, I want to play Minnesota in two or three days. I don’t like 5 days off. My physique thinks it’s a relaxation.”

Porter completed a outstanding collection individually, rivaling Jokic because the Nuggets’ most constant offensive participant. He scored 26 factors on 8-for-12 taking pictures together with 5 of seven from 3-point vary in Recreation 5. He additionally contributed a pair of steals. For the collection, he shot 55.3% from the ground and 48.8% from three.

Murray appeared bothered by his left calf pressure at instances, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope performed on one ankle after spraining his left within the first quarter, and Anthony Davis spent a lot of the second half along with his left arm glued to his facet after a third-quarter collision with Porter injured his shoulder. For a collection within the fifth recreation as a substitute of the seventh, everybody concerned was noticeably on fumes.

For Denver, that’s the price of taking part in from behind each recreation. The Lakers didn’t max out at a double-digit benefit this time, however their lead bought to 69-60 a couple of minutes into the second half. The consequences of that damage to Davis hadn’t set in but, although. Jokic sank a 3-pointer, Caldwell-Pope rebounded his personal miss for a layup, and inside minutes, Porter had an opportunity at a game-tying 4-point play. He missed the free throw, however Denver took the lead its subsequent journey down the ground. It was a 14-2 run. The remainder of the way in which was a back-and-forth affair.

Caldwell-Pope mentioned afterward his ankle felt “so-so.”

“Appeared like we had quite a lot of guys that have been getting banged up alongside the way in which,” coach Michael Malone mentioned. “I didn’t know who the hell we have been gonna end the sport with. However we have been capable of get the job finished.”

The primary half performed out like a merciless coincidence for the Nuggets. After taking pictures a dismal 17 for 68 (25%) on broad open 3s within the first 4 video games of the collection, they emerged pulling down pictures and looking out like their outdated selves once more. They made seven of their first 14 makes an attempt past the arc and went into the intermission taking pictures them at a 42% clip. Reggie Jackson bought in on the motion with an eight-point half. Not solely that; the Nuggets used a 10-0 closing run to steer on the finish of the primary quarter for the primary time all collection.

They have been checking a lot of the obligatory packing containers to flip a close-out recreation of their favor. But they trailed 53-50 on the half anyway.

Jamal Murray (27) of the Denver Nuggets celebrates his second game-winning shot of the collection along with his father, Roger, after the fourth quarter of the Nuggets’ 108-106 win over the Los Angeles Lakers at Ball Area in Denver on Monday, April 29, 2024. (Picture by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Submit)

How? One detrimental development continued, and one other popped up for the primary time.

The Lakers outscored Denver 26-16 within the paint within the half, led by Davis’s 16 factors on 8-of-10 taking pictures. In a pick-and-roll with James, Los Angeles punished Jokic time and again. Jokic performed on the stage of the display greater than the drop protection he had performed earlier within the collection, and James stored discovering Davis on the roll.

Talking of Jokic: He performed arguably his worst half of the season. The Lakers continued to relentlessly double-team him within the put up, timing their defensive rotations to perfection with a purpose to mitigate Denver’s makes an attempt to take advantage of the double-teams. Jokic didn’t attempt to again down Davis. He compelled dangerous passes. With 3:32 left within the second quarter, he had 4 factors, 4 subject purpose makes an attempt and 4 turnovers. Solely when he began taking part in extra aggressively did the Nuggets flip the script.

Need extra Nuggets information? Join the Nuggets Insider to get all our NBA evaluation.

Jamal Murray hits 2nd game winner as Nuggets sink Lakers

DENVER — Jamal Murray overcame a strained left calf, administration’s suggestion he sit this one out and one other haymaker from the Los Angeles Lakers to attain 32 factors and sink the sport winner with 3.6 seconds left Monday evening.

That despatched LeBron James to his earliest playoff exit and the Denver Nuggets tottering into Spherical 2 with a 108-106 win in a Recreation 5 that featured 16 lead adjustments and 10 ties and was secured solely when Taurean Prince’s half-court heave fell quick as time expired.

“Shoutout to the Lakers, they gave us an incredible collection,” stated Murray, who additionally hit the franchise’s first playoff buzzer-beater in Recreation 2 of the Western Convention first-round collection.

“These are photographs that you just dream of as slightly child,” stated Murray, who known as this one simply “slightly higher.”

The Nuggets level guard is the primary participant prior to now 25 seasons with a number of go-ahead photographs within the ultimate 5 seconds of a single playoff collection, in accordance with ESPN Stats & Info analysis. He is the fourth participant to do it a number of occasions throughout a single postseason.

If not for his dogged dedication — and defiance — Murray by no means would have had the prospect to seal the collection.

“I got here in slightly earlier right now to see if I used to be going to have the ability to go, and I felt like I may and so they simply did not need me to danger it,” recounted Murray, who warmed up with an ice pack strapped to his injured calf. “They instructed me no. They instructed me no.

“And I did not say no. I did not wish to go away my teammates on the market,” added Murray, who missed 23 video games due to damage in 2023-24. “We have been battling all season. All people’s harm in some unspecified time in the future, everyone’s going by means of one thing, and I simply would not be capable to stay with myself if I wasn’t in a position to play this sport.

“I am simply glad they listened to me — and listened to me listening to my physique — and simply trusting me with it.”

James’ two free throws tied it at 106 with 26 seconds left, and the Nuggets, simply as they did in Recreation 2, eschewed the timeout. Murray took the ball on a excessive screen-and-roll to his left, shaking Austin Reaves as he crossed by means of the lane and swishing the 14-footer.

“That child’s a warrior, man,” Nuggets coach Michael Malone stated. “The larger the second, the child simply continues to shine.”

Nikola Jokic, who dedicated an uncharacteristic seven turnovers, narrowly missed his nineteenth playoff triple-double with 25 factors, 20 rebounds and 9 assists, and Michael Porter J. scored 26.

James had 30 factors and 11 assists, and Anthony Davis had 17 factors and 15 rebounds however appeared bothered down the stretch after banging his left shoulder into Porter within the second half.

The Nuggets superior to face the Minnesota Timberwolves within the second spherical beginning subsequent weekend. That collection begins in Denver, the place the Nuggets are a conference-best 36-8, together with 3-0 within the playoffs.

Not that it was been simple.

The Nuggets trailed for about three-fourths of the minutes on this collection, they scuffled by means of prolonged taking pictures slumps, and so they’re a banged-up bunch that may positively use the remainder.

“Initially, tip your hat to them,” James stated. “Defending champions. They’re nice crew. Tremendous nicely coached and made the performs down the stretch to win the collection. You give credit score the place credit score is due, that is for certain.”

Davis matched Murray’s 16 first-half factors, and the Lakers led 53-50 at halftime. They pushed that benefit to 9 factors, however the Nuggets closed on a 21-10 run to take an 81-79 lead right into a fourth quarter that was tight till the buzzer.

The Nuggets, who swept the Lakers within the Western Convention finals final summer season on their strategy to successful the franchise’s first NBA championship, beat the Lakers for the twelfth time of their previous 13 matchups.

The one different time James was eradicated within the first spherical of the playoffs got here in 2021 when the Phoenix Suns beat L.A. in six video games.

So, this was the shortest of James’ 17 journeys to the playoffs regardless of the Lakers taking the reigning champs to the brink in all 5 video games.

“I could not be extra happy with our crew regardless of every little thing that occurred,” stated Lakers coach Darvin Ham, who’s certain to be on the new seat. “Clearly, the collection did not go in our favor, did not begin the best way we wished it to, however to win that one at house, combat tooth and nail right now to get this one, our guys confirmed a whole lot of guts and a whole lot of character.”

The Related Press contributed to this report.

Cowboys’ signing Ezekiel Elliott has potential to bring solid value for the cost

In what’s turn into a endless dialog over the previous decade, the Dallas Cowboys’ dealing with of the working again place has been within the highlight once more this offseason. The previous week, it felt inevitable that the Cowboys would draft a working again. Three days of the draft glided by, and essentially the most notable working again information was the Cowboys’ heightened curiosity in re-signing 2016 first-round choose, Ezekiel Elliott.

Monday, the workforce adopted by. Elliott is again in Dallas on a one-year deal for a reported $3 million, with $2 million assured. It’s considerably of a lightning-rod transfer however one which’s … not unhealthy?

Look, Jerry Jones and the Cowboys’ entrance workplace have finished a lot to create the fan base’s negativity — the criticism is usually with benefit. Dallas has not dealt with the working again place completely this offseason. Tony Pollard walked in free company and signed a three-year deal for $24 million with the Tennessee Titans. For the overwhelming majority, there have been no qualms with that call, particularly after Pollard’s efficiency final season. However the Cowboys might have kicked the tires on a veteran in free company.

A number of waves of free company got here and went, and the Cowboys did nothing. Lastly, they signed Royce Freeman, who’s hardly assured a spot on the ultimate roster. Seven rounds of the draft handed. Dallas didn’t choose a working again.

Because the finish of the DeMarco Murray period, the Cowboys have lived on extremes at working again.

They went with a committee of Joseph Randle and Robert Turbin with Darren McFadden because the bell cow (1,089 speeding yards) in 2015 after Murray’s departure. That speeding assault, particularly for Jason Garrett’s preferences, left a variety of meat on the bone, so the Cowboys overreacted and chosen Elliott with the No. 4 choose of the 2016 draft. When Elliott held out in 2019, the Cowboys blinked first and handed him one of many richest working again offers in NFL historical past. As soon as they parted methods with Elliott final spring, they performed Pollard on the franchise tag, well avoiding a long-term mistake as they did with Elliott however nonetheless making Pollard one of many prime earners within the league on the place.


Ezekiel Elliott ran for 8,262 yards and 68 touchdowns in his first seven seasons within the NFL with the Cowboys. (Tim Heitman / USA Right this moment)

The working again place has fallen off a cliff in immediately’s NFL. Groups which have gained Tremendous Bowls lately have finished so with the likes of Isiah Pacheco, Cam Akers, Leonard Fournette (in his reclamation years), Damien Williams and Sony Michel because the face of their working again rooms. Preserve going again and it’s a lot of the identical. You don’t want Emmitt Smith and Terrell Davis carrying the rock to raise the Lombardi anymore.

To have a levelheaded strategy to this transfer, one should verify prior biases on the door. For most individuals, the adverse emotions that got here to thoughts about Elliott at any time when he was talked about from 2019 by 2022 needed to do together with his contract. As a teammate, particularly after he labored by a number of the immaturity of his earlier years, Elliott was nice. As a participant, he was diminished however nonetheless a succesful working again who might match into an NFL backfield.

GO DEEPER

Jerry Jones said Cowboys’ offseason objectives 3 months in the past. Have they finished sufficient?

In 2022, Elliott’s last season in Dallas, he averaged 3.8 yards per carry, dipping beneath the 4-yard mark for the primary time in his profession. Final yr in New England, that dropped to three.5 yards per try and a profession low in yards for the season with 672. It’s been a far cry from the best way Elliott’s profession started. He topped 1,300 speeding yards with a minimum of 4.5 yards per carry in three of his first 4 seasons.

Now, his contract traces up with who Elliott is as a participant. Getting his management and veteran presence in a younger room is a bonus. That he’s in favor with a variety of the important thing playmakers on the workforce, together with the beginning quarterback, doesn’t harm.

Ezekiel Elliott: 2-season snapshot

TEAM YR G CAR YDS YPC TD REC YDS TD

2023

17

184

642

3.5

3

51

313

2

2022

15

231

876

3.8

12

17

92

0

The one slight purple flag is Jones’ assertion and perception that Elliott is a beginning, RB1 again within the league. However the contract Elliott acquired speaks for itself, and given the supply, that analysis of Elliott’s skills was in all probability simply as a lot a advertising and marketing technique to promote to the followers because it was an trustworthy analysis of expertise. Mike McCarthy could by no means say it publicly, however he’s seen Elliott’s drop in expertise as carefully as anyone. Teaching in a contract yr, it might be shocking if McCarthy channeled utilization of any participant to guard emotions.

No matter Elliott’s output final season — towards the tip of the yr, which Jones mysteriously pointed to as a supply of encouragement, or holistically — Elliott does carry worth to the Cowboys’ offense. He’s a sensible participant who needs to be strong in cross safety and probably nice in short-yardage conditions. The offensive line in entrance of him is shaping as much as a minimum of be formidable. Possibly Elliott even breaks off the occasional run to the third stage, although greater than probably, it’ll be some mixture of Rico Dowdle, Malik Davis, Freeman or Deuce Vaughn doing that half.

GO DEEPER

Cowboys 2024 NFL Draft takeaways: What is going to they do at working again, defensive deal with?

The Cowboys’ offense doesn’t have ambiguity to it prefer it did in 2019. This offense, for higher or worse, runs by Dak Prescott’s proper arm and CeeDee Lamb’s palms. Prescott isn’t rocking a $60 million cap hit to take a backseat to a working sport anymore. Even with a struggling unit final yr, Prescott was the NFL’s MVP runner-up and Lamb among the best receivers (to not point out the emergence of Jake Ferguson). The Cowboys boast a full-fledged passing offense that wants the working sport to point out up situationally.

Elliott is able to doing that.

One can argue that drafting Elliott as excessive because the Cowboys did in 2016 was a mistake. Giving Elliott an enormous extension in 2019 definitely was a mistake, one the Cowboys are nonetheless paying for with a $6 million useless cap hit in 2024. These had been yesterday’s errors. Right this moment, bringing in Elliott is ok. It’s not improbable and it’s not terrible; in contrast to the Cowboys’ strategy to the working again place, it’s someplace within the center.

(High photograph of Elliott: Dustin Bradford / Getty Pictures)

Cowboys, Ezekiel Elliott reunite for 2024 season

The deal got here collectively over the previous a number of days however communications have existed for a number of weeks (if not longer), the door at all times being open for Elliott to stroll again by means of it as early as this season.

A steak dinner final week helped to seal the deal, as did the Cowboys exiting this 12 months’s draft with out choosing a working again — a call that was additionally, although not completely, rooted of their perception in Elliott’s looming return.

Having been launched by the Cowboys following the 2022 season in a transfer that was completely predicated upon a wage cap crunch, Elliott modified his jersey to No. 15 — an homage to his dominance at Ohio State — and signed on with the New England Patriots, the place he had a strong marketing campaign that produced 955 yards from scrimmage with 5 touchdowns in 5 begins.

His 235 touches final season for Invoice Belichick proves the 28-year-old nonetheless has loads of tread left on his tires.

Do the Cowboys consider Elliott can nonetheless be a starter within the NFL?

Contemplating not one of the Cowboys’ eight draft picks garnered them a working again, Elliott reacquiring the function of RB1 in Dallas is all however promised.

He started his first stint with the Cowboys as their fourth-overall choose within the 2016 NFL Draft, bucking the development across the league regarding the downturn of valuation on the working again place. He’d fireplace out of the gate in his first 12 months out of Ohio State, incomes PFWA All-Rookie Workforce honors earlier than occurring to in the end garner three Professional Bowl nods and honors as a two-time All-Professional.

Additionally a two-time NFL speeding champion, Elliott helped quarterback Dak Prescott elevate the Cowboys’ offense to latest acquainted heights, all whereas being one of the sturdy gamers within the league.

And when he did undergo damage, e.g., torn PCL in 2021, he usually gutted by means of it to stay obtainable — a testomony to his gritty resolve and management — nonetheless surpassing the 1,000-yard mark that season.

In all, Elliott rushed for a complete of 8,262 yards and 68 touchdowns, third to solely Emmitt Smith and Tony Dorsett, whereas having surpassed Dorsett in common speeding yards per sport (80.2).

“Zeke is, as everyone knows, is one in all our favorites,” stated government vice chairman and director of participant personnel Stephen Jones. “He is laid it on the road for this franchise. He is the last word competitor and we clearly assume a variety of him.”

Equally essential, and arguably extra so, has been his continued dedication to the area people in Dallas by means of his work with The Salvation Military and “For Oak Cliff”— the latter being a neighborhood charity created to assist underprivileged and underserved youth in Southwest Dallas.

Although his soccer skills have been being utilized in New England final season, Elliott by no means wavered in his neighborhood service in a metropolis he nonetheless views as the middle of his coronary heart.

“Dallas is certainly residence to me,” Elliott stated final September. “Most of my household is already in Dallas.”

And now it is time for his homecoming dance.

OKC Thunder Reach 2nd Round For First Time Since 2016

Any NBA participant will preach that closeout video games are the hardest. The whistles get wild, the group will get loopy and the foe is preventing for his or her life. That was the story of Sport 4 in New Orleans. 

With the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder proudly owning a 3-0 lead over the Pelicans, the Bourbon Avenue boys got here out firing.

The Smoothie King Heart crowd was extra alive than that they had been this season, and the power on the courtroom was there too. The Pelicans flocked to the ball and made life powerful on Oklahoma Metropolis.

A number of no-calls, just a few open missed appears to be like and sloppy segments from the Thunder rapidly turned this sport right into a dogfight with OKC proudly owning a one-point lead at halftime. 

The lone supply of constant offense for Oklahoma Metropolis within the first half was from sophomore sensation Jalen Williams. The No. 12 decide within the 2022 NBA Draft poured in 13 first-half factors to couple with 5 rebounds and two steals earlier than intermission. 

The Santa Clara product completed with 24 factors, eight rebounds, 4 assists and two steals. 

New Orleans got here out on hearth to start out the second half, roaring their technique to a lead as the 2 groups rode the seesaw the whole body. 

After a nip and tuck third quarter, the Pelicans led by a one-point margin heading right into a do-or-die closing body. 

A 12-3 run that spanned the tip of the third quarter and begin of the fourth interval lifted the Pelicans to a 5 level cushion – their largest of the evening. 

Although, an apperance from New Orlean’s Josh Giddey hitting two triples briefly order tied the sport at 80 all with below eight minutes to play. 

Giddey continued to impress raining triples and serving to the Thunder generate stops defensively. 

With some well timed shot making below the wire, OKC grew their first double-digit cushion with below 4 minutes to go within the conflict. 

The Bricktown boys nursed that lead for the remainder of the evening, securing their first playoff sequence since Kevin Durant wore Thunder Blue. 

As Oklahoma Metropolis pulls off simply their second sweep in franchise historical past, they await the winner of the Dallas Mavericks in opposition to L.A. Clippers first spherical sequence. 

Need to be part of the dialogue? Like Contained in the Thunder on Fb and follow us on Twitter to remain updated on all the newest Thunder information. You too can meet the workforce behind the protection.

How to watch the OKC Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans NBA Playoffs game tonight: Game 4 livestream options, more

A Thunder fan holds up an indication that reads “Sweep the Pelicans” in the course of the fourth quarter in Sport Three of the primary spherical of the 2024 NBA Playoffs between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder at Smoothie King Middle on April 27, 2024 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 

Sean Gardner/Getty Pictures


The New Orleans Pelicans face the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder tonight for Sport 4 of the groups’ Spherical 1 NBA Playoffs sequence. Three video games down within the best-of-seven sequence, the Pelicans face elimination tonight if they do not pull out a win. 

Learn under for how one can watch Sport 4 of the Thunder vs. Pelicans sequence tonight.


How and when to observe tonight’s OKC Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans NBA recreation

Sport 4 of the NBA Playoffs sequence between the OKC Thunder and New Orleans Pelicans can be performed on Monday, April 29, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. ET (5:30 p.m. PT). The sport will air on NBA TV and stream on Sling TV and the platforms featured under.


How you can watch the OKC Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans recreation with out cable

In case your cable subscription does not carry NBA TV otherwise you’ve minimize the wire along with your cable firm, you possibly can nonetheless watch in the present day’s recreation. Under are the platforms on which you’ll watch tonight’s Thunder vs. Pelicans recreation reside. 

Sling TV: Probably the most cost-effective approach to stream the OKC Thunder vs. New Orleans Pelicans recreation

Some of the cost-effective methods to stream in the present day’s recreation is thru a subscription to Sling TV. To observe in the present day’s recreation, you will want a subscription to the Orange tier, plus the Sling Sports activities Further bundle, which incorporates NBA TV. For entry to extra NBA playoff video games, improve to the Orange + Blue tier, which incorporates your native ABC, NBC and Fox associates’ reside feeds.

The Orange tier is generally $40 per thirty days, however Sling TV has a proposal for brand spanking new subscribers the place you may get your first month for $15. The Orange + Blue tier prices $35 in your first month, and $60 per thirty days after that. You possibly can cancel anytime. Add the Sports activities Further bundle to observe tonight’s recreation for $11 per thirty days.

Notice: As a result of Sling TV does not carry CBS, you will not be capable to watch CBS-aired reside sports activities, together with the NFL. In the event you’re searching for one reside TV streaming platform to observe all of your favourite sports activities, we recommend a subscription to Fubo or Hulu + Dwell TV. 

Prime options of Sling TV Orange tier:

  • There are 32 channels to observe in whole, together with ESPN, TNT and TBS.
  • You get entry to NBA basketball, NHL MLB and Monday Evening Soccer NFL video games airing on ESPN subsequent season on the lowest worth.
  • All subscription tiers embrace 50 hours of cloud-based DVR storage.

Watch the Thunder vs. Pelicans recreation totally free with Fubo

You too can catch in the present day’s recreation on Fubo. Fubo is a sports-centric streaming service that gives entry to NBA TV, ABC and ESPN, along with virtually each NFL recreation subsequent season.

To observe the NBA Playoffs with out cable, begin a seven-day free trial of Fubo. You possibly can start watching instantly in your TV, telephone, pill or pc. Along with NBA basketball, you will have entry to NFL soccer, MLB, NBA, NHL, MLS and worldwide soccer video games. 

Fubo’s Professional Tier is priced at $80 per thirty days after your free seven-day trial. To observe in the present day’s recreation, add on the $7.99 per thirty days Fubo Further bundle, which incorporates MLB Community, NBA TV, NHL Community, Tennis Channel, SEC Community and extra channels with reside video games. Or improve to the Fubo Elite tier and get all of the Fubo Further channels, plus the flexibility to stream in 4K, beginning at $90 per thirty days.

Prime options of FuboTV Professional Tier:

  • There aren’t any contracts with Fubo, you possibly can cancel anytime.
  • The Professional tier consists of 195 channels, so there’s one thing for everybody within the household to observe. 
  • Fubo consists of most channels you will want to observe reside sports activities, together with CBS (not obtainable by Sling TV).
  • All tiers include 1,000 hours of cloud-based DVR recording.
  • Stream in your TV, telephone, pill and different gadgets.

The very best place to get NBA Playoffs fan gear: Fanatics

Rooting from house is way more enjoyable with NBA crew gear. Fanatics is our first cease for the latest NBA fan gear, our go-to for NBA Playoffs and NBA Finals merch like jerseys, commemorative T-shirts, hats and extra. Fanatics additionally has just-released NFL Draft jerseys, like No. 1 general draft choose Caleb Williams’ new Chicago Bears jersey.


2024 NBA Playoffs: Full playoff schedule

Jalen Suggs #4 of the Orlando Magic throws a go in opposition to the Chicago Bulls in the course of the first quarter at Kia Middle on April 07, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. 

Wealthy Storry/Getty Pictures


The primary spherical of the 2024 NBA Playoffs started on April 20.

First spherical schedule

Under are the dates, occasions and networks airing every recreation of the primary spherical of the NBA Playoffs.  All occasions Jap.

Jap Convention

(1) Boston Celtics vs. (8) Miami Warmth

• Sport 1: Celtics 114, Warmth 94
• Sport 2: Warmth 111, Celtics 101
• Sport 3: Celtics 104, Warmth 84
• Sport 4: Celtics vs. Warmth; Monday, April 29 (7:30, TNT)
• Sport 5: Warmth vs. Celtics; Wednesday, Might 1 (7:30 ET, TNT)
• Sport 6: Celtics vs. Warmth; Friday, Might 3 (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 7: Warmth vs. Celtics; Sunday, Might 5 (TBD, TBD)*

* = If obligatory

(2) New York Knicks vs. (7) Philadelphia 76ers

• Sport 1: 76ers vs. Knicks 111, 76ers 104
• Sport 2: Knicks 104, 76ers 101
• Sport 3: 76ers 125, Knicks 114
• Sport 4: Knicks 97, 76ers 92
• Sport 5: 76ers vs. Knicks; Tuesday, April 30 (7 p.m. on TNT)
• Sport 6: Knicks vs. 76ers; TBD (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 7: 76ers vs. Knicks; TBD (TBD, TBD)*

* = If obligatory

(3) Milwaukee Bucks vs. (6) Indiana Pacers

• Sport 1: Bucks 109, Pacers 94
• Sport 2: Pacers 125, Bucks 108
• Sport 3: Pacers 121, Bucks 118
• Sport 4: Pacers 126, Bucks 113
• Sport 5: Pacers vs. Bucks; Tuesday, April 30 (9:30 p.m. on TNT)
• Sport 6: Bucks vs. Pacers; TBD (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 7: Pacers vs. Bucks; TBD (TBD, TBD)*

* = If obligatory

(4) Cleveland vs. (5) Orlando

• Sport 1: Cavaliers 97, Magic 83
• Sport 2: Magic vs. Cavaliers 96, Magic 86
• Sport 3: Magic 121, Cavaliers 83
• Sport 4: Magic 112, Cavaliers 89
• Sport 5: Magic vs. Cavaliers; Tuesday, April 30 (8 p.m. on NBA TV)
• Sport 6: Cavaliers vs. Magic; Friday, Might 3 (TBD, TBD)
• Sport 7: Magic vs. Cavaliers; TBD (TBD, TBD)* 

* = If obligatory

Western Convention

(1) Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder vs. (8) New Orleans Pelicans

• Sport 1: Thunder 94, Pelicans 92
• Sport 2: Thunder 124, Pelicans 92
• Sport 3: Thunder 106, Pelicans 85
• Sport 4: Thunder vs. Pelicans; Monday, April 29 (8:30 p.m. on NBA TV)
• Sport 5: Pelicans vs. Thunder; TBD (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 6: Thunder vs. Pelicans; TBD (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 7: Pelicans vs. Thunder; TBD (TBD, TBD)*

* = If obligatory

(2) Denver Nuggets vs. (7) Los Angeles Lakers

• Sport 1: Nuggets 114, Lakers 103
• Sport 2: Nuggets 101, Lakers 99
• Sport 3: Nuggets 112, Lakers 105
• Sport 4: Lakers 119, Nuggets 108
• Sport 5: Lakers vs. Nuggets; Monday, April 29 (10 p.m. on TNT)
• Sport 6: Nuggets vs. Lakers; TBD (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 7: Lakers vs. Nuggets; TBD (TBD, TBD)*

 = If obligatory

(3) Minnesota Timberwolves vs. (6) Phoenix Suns

• Sport 1: Timberwolves 120, Suns 95
• Sport 2: Timberwolves 105, Suns 93
• Sport 3: Timberwolves 129, Suns 109
• Sport 4: Timberwolves 112, Suns 116

* = If obligatory

(4) LA Clippers vs. (5) Dallas Mavericks

• Sport 1: Clippers 109, Mavericks 97
• Sport 2: Mavericks 96, Clippers 93
• Sport 3: Mavericks 101, Clippers 90
• Sport 4: Clippers  116, Mavericks 111
• Sport 5: Mavericks vs. Clippers, Wednesday, Might 1  (10 p.m. on TNT)
• Sport 6: Clippers vs. Mavericks, TBD (TBD, TBD)*
• Sport 7: Mavericks vs. Clippers, TBD (TBD, TBD)*

* = If obligatory


Convention semifinals schedule

The convention semifinals will start Might 6-7, however can transfer as much as Might 4-5 if the prior spherical’s sequence ends early.


Convention finals schedule

The convention finals will start Might 21-22, however can transfer as much as Might 19-20 if the prior spherical’s sequence ends early.


NBA Finals schedule

The 2024 NBA Finals will start on June 6, airing on ABC.

  • Sunday, June 9: Sport 2
  • Wednesday, June 12: Sport 3
  • Friday, June 14: Sport 4
  • Monday, June 17: Sport 5 (if obligatory)
  • Thursday, June 20: Sport 6 (if obligatory)
  • Sunday, June 23: Sport 7 (if obligatory)

AR-15 rifle recovered from scene where 4 law enforcement officers killed in Charlotte: Police

Authorities recovered an AR-15 rifle and .40-caliber handgun from the scene the place 4 regulation enforcement officers had been fatally shot whereas making an attempt to serve warrants at a residence in Charlotte, North Carolina, police stated.

Extra magazines and ammunition for each firearms had been additionally recovered from the scene, the place there are believed to have been greater than 100 projectiles and casings, in accordance with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings.

“I can not inform you how a lot I am grateful for these officers and their heroic act,” Jennings stated throughout a press briefing on Tuesday. “To me that is really heroic — while you hear the gunshots and the fast fireplace and so they’re working immediately into it as a result of they know that there are those that need assistance.”

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings speaks at a press convention concerning an occasion the place a number of officers on a activity power attempting to serve a warrant had been shot in Charlotte, N.C., Monday, April 29, 2024.

Nell Redmond/AP

The regulation enforcement officers had been shot and killed as they tried to serve two warrants in Charlotte on Monday, metropolis officers stated. 4 different officers suffered non-life-threatening accidents within the incident.

A person, later recognized by authorities as Terry Clark Hughes Jr., 39, allegedly started firing at about 1:30 p.m. Monday, hanging a number of officers, police stated. The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Process Drive had been serving energetic felony warrants for possession of a firearm by a felon and felony flee to elude.

The responding officers had been “instantly met with gunfire,” Jennings stated. The shooter was firing from an higher degree within the residence and had an “benefit” over them, Jennings stated.

Investigators are wanting into how Hughes acquired the weapons and whether or not different shooters had been concerned, Jennings stated Tuesday. A young person and a lady who had been within the residence on the time are cooperating within the investigation, he stated.

“We really feel like we’ve got everybody concerned that was on the home that we have to communicate with,” Jennings stated.

Twelve Charlotte-Mecklenburg law enforcement officials fired their service weapon throughout the incident and have been positioned on administrative depart, per protocol, amid an investigation into the taking pictures, the chief stated.

The 4 regulation enforcement personnel killed within the incident had been recognized as Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks Jr., 48; North Carolina Division of Grownup Correction veterans Sam Poloche and Alden Elliott; and CMPD officer Joshua Eyer.

“It’s extremely powerful to know that there are households which can be hurting proper now,” Jennings stated Tuesday, crying. “We’ll get by it although.”

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Chief Johnny Jennings wipes away tears as he speaks at a press convention in Charlotte, N.C., Tuesday, April 30, 2024, concerning the taking pictures that killed 4 officers throughout an try to serve a warrant on April 29.

Nell Redmond/AP

The 4 CMPD officers who had been additionally injured within the incident had been recognized Tuesday as Christopher Tolley, Michael Giglio and Jack Blowers, who had been shot, and Justin Campbell, who suffered a damaged foot, police stated. Tolley stays hospitalized in secure situation and the others have since been launched, police stated.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper thanked the officers who responded for his or her “bravery and braveness.”

“The investigation into this tragic, brutal, lethal assault will end in extra solutions that we do not know as we speak,” North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper stated at Tuesday’s press briefing. “I count on it to seek out these solutions and to assist convey to justice folks for these pointless deaths of those courageous officers.”

Mayor Vi Lyles acknowledged the well being care suppliers who “did all that was doable.”

“To the 4 households who gave that final sacrifice — we see you,” she stated at Tuesday’s briefing. “Right this moment we are saying our prayers as we get by this troublesome time.”

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles will get choked up as she speaks at a press convention concerning a taking pictures in Charlotte, N.C., Monday, April 29, 2024.

Nell Redmond/AP

George Dunlap, chairman of the county commissioners board, issued a press release calling the taking pictures a “mindless and preventable” tragedy.

The group feels “the shock and the ache” of Monday’s taking pictures, added Dena Diorio, Mecklenburg’s county supervisor.

“We stand able to help our regulation enforcement colleagues and their households in any approach we are able to as all of us work by this heartbreaking scenario,” she stated on social media.

Dr. Raynard Washington, the county’s well being director, stated he was “praying and sending gentle & help to the households attempting to make sense of this catastrophe” in a press release on social media.

“We must always all be bored with our weapons within the mistaken palms drawback. This is to hope,” he stated.

ABC Information’ Julia Reinstein, Luke Barr and Jolie Lash contributed to this report.