Serena Williams joins ownership of Toronto’s first WNBA team.
Tennis icon, Serena Williams is expanding her influence into professional basketball, joining the ownership group of the Toronto Tempo, Canada’s first WNBA franchise. Announced Monday, the team will debut in 2026 under primary owner Larry Tanenbaum’s Kilmer Sports Ventures. While details of Williams’ Investment remain undisclosed, her involvement brings star power and strategic vision. Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion who retired in 2022, joins a growing list of elite athletes investing in women’s basketball, including Tom Brady (Las Vegas Aces) and Dwyane Wade (Chicago Sky). She will play an active role in branding, including jersey designs and merchandise. “This is about showcasing the true value of female athletes,” Williams said, calling women’s sports a prime investment opportunity. Pending league approval, her presence is expected to elevate the WNBA’s profile, particularly in Canada, and strengthen the Tempo’s impact as they prepare for their inaugural season.
Breaking: Serena Williams is joining the ownership group for the Toronto Tempo, the WNBA's newest expansion team, she announced on social media. pic.twitter.com/WVgJVu1BYm
— espnW (@espnW) March 3, 2025
Tijjani Reijnders signs a new long-term deal with AC Milan until 2030.
Dutch midfielder, Tijjani Reijnders has committed his future to AC Milan, signing a contract extension until 2030. The 26-year-old, whose previous deal ran until 2028, has been one of Europe’s standout midfielders this season, registering 12 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions. After struggling with positional uncertainty last season, Reijnders has thrived in a defined role, becoming a key figure for the Rossoneri. His consistent performances and growing influence have attracted significant interest from other clubs, but Milan remained confident in securing his long-term stay. The club reassured him of their vision, leading to the official announcement of his renewal. Speaking about his decision, Reijnders expressed his deep connection to Milan, calling it his “second home.” With his future now settled, the Dutchman is set to continue his impressive form, playing a crucial role in the club’s ambitions for years to come.
https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1896629519848714322
The Dallas Mavericks’ star, Kyrie Irving suffers knee sprain in loss to Kings.
Kyrie Irving sustained a left knee sprain Monday night during the Mavericks’ 122-98 loss to the Kings. The injury occurred late in the first quarter when Irving landed awkwardly after stepping on Jonas Valančiūnas’ foot while driving to the basket. His knee appeared to hyperextend, leaving him in visible pain on the floor for several minutes. Despite the injury, Irving returned to sink two free throws with tears streaming down his face before being helped off the court. Already shorthanded, Dallas was without Anthony Davis, Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively II, and P.J. Washington Jr. Reserve guard Jaden Hardy also exited in the third quarter with an ankle sprain, leaving the team with just nine available players. Irving, a nine-time All-Star, has been Dallas’ primary scoring threat since Luka Dončić’s Trade to the Lakers. Coach Jason Kidd lamented the team’s injury struggles, stating, “It seems every time we get close to getting somebody back, someone goes down.”
https://twitter.com/BleacherReport/status/1896745711695446241
Valverde’s return boosts Real Madrid’s chances ahead of Champions League derby.
Real Madrid will be without several key players for their UEFA Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid. Defenders Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão remain sidelined with serious knee injuries, while Dani Ceballos and Jesús Vallejo are out due to muscular issues. Additionally, midfielder Jude Bellingham will miss the match due to suspension after accumulating yellow cards. Despite these setbacks, Real Madrid received a boost with Fede Valverde’s return. The Uruguayan midfielder, who missed the last three matches with muscular discomfort, completed a full training session before being cleared for the game. His presence is a relief for manager Carlo Ancelotti, who oversaw an evening training session on Monday where Valverde passed his fitness test. With several absentees, Madrid faces a tough challenge against their city rivals in this crucial European fixture. Ancelotti will have to rely on his squad depth to navigate the high-stakes encounter.
https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1896648188922400917
Andrea Berta emerges as the top candidate for Arsenal Sporting Director role.
Former Atlético Madrid director Andrea Berta is being considered for Arsenal’s sporting director position, sources told ESPN. The Gunners have been conducting interviews since the transfer window closed, with other candidates including ex-Manchester United recruitment chief Dan Ashworth and Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe. Berta, 53, was previously in discussions to join AC Milan after departing Atlético Madrid in December, but those talks have stalled. Arsenal’s interest comes as they look to replace Edu, who resigned in November. Reports suggest Edu was approached by Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis with a lucrative offer to lead their multi-club project. Currently on six months of gardening leave, Edu’s responsibilities are temporarily overseen by managing director Richard Garlick. While no final decision has been made, Arsenal aims to appoint a new sporting director this month to begin preparations for the summer transfer window.
https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1896455502369882222