Russia braces for four-year Olympic ban over doping scandal
Russia could be hit with a four-year Olympic ban on Monday for flouting anti-doping rules, a punishment local officials have said would be unfair and part of a malicious Western attempt to destroy sport in the country.
Doping: UKAD calls for strict sanctions on Russia for state-sponsored doping
The World Anti-Doping Agency must impose the “strongest possible sanctions” on Russia for its state-sponsored doping because athletes around the world have suffered as a result, the UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) agency said on Friday.
NBA notebook: Portland reportedly will guarantee Anthony’s deal
The Portland Trail Blazers will change Carmelo Anthony’s contract into a guaranteed deal, ESPN reported Thursday.
Reports: Padres send Renfroe to Rays for Pham
The San Diego Padres agreed to trade outfielder Hunter Renfroe and coveted second-base prospect Xavier Edwards to the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for outfielder Tommy Pham and prospect Jake Cronenworth on Thursday night, multiple outlets reported.
Report: Yankees set to offer Cole record-breaking contract
After coming up short against the Houston in the American League Championship Series in the fall, the New York Yankees appear poised to go after the Astros’ ace during the winter.
Jones sinks birdie at the last to lead in smoky Sydney
Former champion Matt Jones slotted a birdie putt under smoke-filled skies at the final hole to take a one-shot lead over Paul Casey and Dimitrios Papadatos at the halfway stage of the Australian Open on Friday.
NHL roundup: Blackhawks end Bruins’ win streak despite 3-goal rally
Jonathan Toews scored on a breakaway 54 seconds into overtime, and the Chicago Blackhawks overcame blowing a three-goal lead in the third period to beat the host Bruins 4-3 Thursday, ending Boston’s eight-game winning streak.
NBA roundup: Harden withstands elbow, helps Rockets top Raptors
James Harden scored six of his 23 points in the fourth quarter after leaving the game briefly at the end of the third with a head injury and the visiting Houston Rockets defeated the Toronto Raptors 119-109 Thursday night.
NFL notebook: Patriots QB Brady limited in practice
Though they remain atop the AFC East with a 10-2 record, the New England Patriots continue to experience setbacks. The latest involves 42-year-old quarterback Tom Brady, who was limited in practice Thursday due to toe and right elbow injuries.
MLB notebook: Mariners trade C Narvaez to Brewers
The Milwaukee Brewers acquired catcher Omar Narvaez from the Seattle Mariners on Thursday for minor-league pitcher Adam Hill and a draft pick.
