Sports
2023 WNBA High 25 player rankings: Breanna Stewart retains No. 1 pickle ahead of reigning MVP A’ja Wilson
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Published
1 year agoon
![2023 WNBA High 25 player rankings: Breanna Stewart retains No. 1 pickle ahead of reigning MVP A’ja Wilson](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/5679-2023-wnba-high-25-player-rankings-breanna-stewart-retains-no-1-pickle-ahead-of-reigning-mvp-aja-wilson.png)
Mighty has changed in the WNBA world one day of the winter. A superteam emerged on every hover, with the defending champion Las Vegas Aces and newly loaded Fresh York Liberty. The league also elevated the amount of video games teams will play in the conventional season to 40 and original options were launched.
What has not changed ahead of Friday’s opening night for the 2023 season is the mountainous quantity of talent in the league. Whereas that’s terrific for the sport, it makes lists relish this one more demanding than ever. But despite the problem, CBS Sports activities has as soon as again ranked the pause 25 gamers in the WNBA.
For the third consecutive season, Breanna Stewart has retained her pickle atop the listing, and is adopted by reigning MVP A’ja Wilson and 2021 MVP Jonquel Jones. That trio has been the pause-three, in some sigh, in every of the past three seasons. Rounding out the pause-five are Kelsey Plum and one more used league MVP, Elena Delle Donne.
As expected, the listing is dominated by the Aces and Liberty, who boast 9 of the pause 16 gamers between. The Aces’ five gamers is a league-high, while the Liberty cling four. In the support of them, the Washington Mystics and Connecticut Solar cling three every. Every crew is represented by at the least one player. To little shock, the listing skews older; there aren’t any inexperienced persons and 2022 Rookie of the Year Rhyne Howard is the splendid 2nd-yr player.
Conceal: Skylar Diggins-Smith became not integrated on the listing because she is pregnant and her pickle for the upcoming season is unruffled unsure. She became ranked No. 8 final season and would were integrated below identical old circumstances.
1. Breanna Stewart — F, Fresh York Liberty
Stewart is the headliner of the Liberty’s summer of broad additions. She has proven time and time again that she is an elite player on either side of the ball thanks to her dimension and athleticism. Closing yr, while she became unruffled with the Seattle Storm, Stewart led the league in scoring with 21.8 points per game one day of the conventional season and 27 points per game one day of the playoffs. Alongside with making the 2022 All-WNBA First Team and All-Defensive First Team, Stewart also carried out as the runner-up in the MVP balloting. — Isabel Gonzalez
2. A’ja Wilson — F, Las Vegas Aces
The No. 1 overall opt in the 2018 WNBA Draft has absolutely lived as a lot as the hype. Wilson carried out final season as the WNBA MVP for the 2nd time in her occupation. She became also named Defensive Participant of the Year – changing into appropriate the fifth player in league historic past to get both awards in the identical season. She lifted the Aces to the 2022 championship trophy in conjunction with her dominance on both ends. Wilson became a high-five scorer with 19.5 points per game while taking pictures at 50.1 percent from the field. She almost averaged a double-double with 9.4 rebounds per game, and also had a league-splendid 1.9 blocks per game. — Gonzalez
3. Jonquel Jones — F/C, Fresh York Liberty
Closing season became a little a queer one for Jones, who had her playing time and impact on the Solar’s offense gash despite being the reigning MVP, and on the total appeared a bit out of kinds. But even in a “down yr,” she unruffled earned All-Giant name, All-WNBA 2nd Team and All-Defensive 2nd Team picks, and became dominant at cases in the playoffs as she helped lead the Solar to the Finals. Jones is one amongst the most talented and versatile gamers on both ends of the bottom, and can cling a likelihood to showcase her talents in a brand original scenario after an offseason alternate to the Giant Apple. As a leading member of the original-explore Liberty’s superteam, she could additionally unruffled as soon as again compete for awards and a title. — Jack Maloney
4. Kelsey Plum — G, Las Vegas Aces
Plum has been getting better every yr. She became the WNBA Sixth Participant of the Year in 2021, and 2022 became positively a breakout season for her. Plum, a First Team selection, averaged 20.2 points per game final yr and became one amongst the pause 3-point shooters in the league making at 42 percent. She also facilitated the offense for her teammates as a High 10 player in assists with 5.1 per game. Right through her impressive yr, she also observed her first WNBA All-Giant name Game look and became named the MVP after registering 30 points for the a success crew. — Gonzalez
5. Elena Delle Donne — F, Washington Mystics
At the birth of coaching camp, Delle Donne gave an replace that became years in the making: her support is one way or the opposite 100% again and she would not belief to take a seat down out any video games for relaxation this season. Assuming that pickle holds, the used two-time MVP could additionally unruffled simply catch her pickle among the many league’s elite. She is one amongst the most skilled offensive gamers we cling ever viewed, in a position to carrying a crew by herself in conjunction with her versatile inside-commence air game that causes matchup nightmares for opponents. The final time we observed her fully healthy became 2019, when she gained MVP, grew to turn out to be the important and splendid WNBA player to enroll in the 50-40-90 membership and led the Mystics to the title; request her to be in the mix for more most foremost awards and honors this season. — Maloney
6. Candace Parker — F, Las Vegas Aces
Parker leaving the Chicago Sky and joining the Aces will give an additional boost to the defending champions. The faded is one amongst 14 gamers to get WNBA championships with two more than a number of teams. No player has gained rings sporting three more than a number of jerseys, nonetheless Parker has a likelihood to be the important one to complete it this season. She averaged 13.2 points, 8.6 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game in 2022, while also making her seventh All-Giant name look. The 37-yr-fashioned has been contemplating retirement for a number of years, nonetheless the 2020 Defensive Participant of the Year is unruffled a gradual addition to any roster. — Gonzalez
7. Courtney Vandersloot — G, Fresh York Liberty
For the important time since 2016, Vandersloot failed to lead the WNBA in assists per game final season, in its build finishing 2nd with 6.5. That became more about her playing fewer minutes and sharing the playmaking load than a decrease in her skills, alternatively. Vandersloot is unruffled the splendid pure point guard in the league and could tear an offense in her sleep. Her opt-and-roll talents are sublime and she’s an skilled in preserving her teammates engaged and fervent. She’ll must lean on all of these traits this season as she begins a brand original share of her occupation with a Liberty superteam that must learn to portion the ball and sacrifice for the larger upright. — Maloney
8. Nneka Ogwumike — F, Los Angeles Sparks
The past few years were a demanding duration for Ogwumike, who had the stress of leading the gamers’ union one day of the bubble season, suffered more than one accidents and dealt with a messy scenario both on and off the court docket in Los Angeles. When healthy, even supposing, Ogwumike is unruffled a premier player, as she confirmed final season when she became named an All-Giant name starter for the important time and almost about single-handedly dragged the Sparks to the playoffs. This summer, she’ll cling a long way more weight off her shoulders and can very successfully be in a position to point of interest strictly on basketball, which is broad news for the Sparks and hideous news for her opponents. — Maloney
9. Alyssa Thomas — F, Connecticut Solar
After lacking almost about the complete 2021 season while getting better from a torn Achilles tendon, Thomas became support at her splendid in 2022 when she helped the Solar salvage to the Finals and earned All-Giant name, All-WNBA 2nd Team and All-Defensive 2nd Team picks. She is one amongst the most appealing gamers the league has ever viewed – a relentless, physical pressure whose success is more about sheer will than potential. But even supposing her programs is per chance not the most aesthetically comely, they work. As a brand original technology begins in Connecticut, the Solar are going to lean on Thomas more than ever, and she’s more than in a position to shouldering that burden. — Maloney
10. Chelsea Gray — G, Las Vegas Aces
Gray is coming off one amongst the splendid playoff runs we cling ever viewed. She assign up video-game numbers en path to a success Finals MVP and the 2nd title of her occupation: 21.7 points, seven assists and 3.8 rebounds per game on 61.1/54.4/83.3 taking pictures splits. It’s, of direction, unrealistic to request her to protect that roughly production over the direction of the conventional season, nonetheless even the “identical old” version of Gray is one amongst the splendid point guards in the league. Her dimension and physicality give her a more than a number of advantage over most defenders, she’s a opt-and-roll grasp and when she must attain she’s a good shooter in off-the-dribble and gain-and-shoot cases. — Maloney
11. Sabrina Ionescu — G, Fresh York Liberty
The used No. 1 overall opt is coming off a breakout advertising and marketing and marketing campaign whereby she carried out in the pause-12 in the league in scoring, rebounding and assists – the splendid player to complete that feat – made her first All-Giant name and All-WNBA 2nd Team appearances and led the Liberty to the playoffs. She’s not going to assign up such loopy numbers this season, nonetheless she couldn’t cling to after the Liberty added three future Hall of Famers in the offseason. Ionescu is unruffled one amongst the most talented perimeter gamers in the sport, even supposing, and can cling her time to shine. Her potential to waft between scoring and playmaking roles will doubtless be compulsory for the Liberty’s success. — Maloney
12. Jewell Loyd — G, Seattle Storm
Loyd has already carried out more than most gamers will of their complete careers; she’s a two-time champion, four-time All-Giant name and two-time All-WNBA performer. Besides, she has most neutral not too long in the past claimed the mantle of the splendid taking pictures guard in the league thanks to her perimeter scoring potential, steady playmaking talents and improved defense. This season, she’ll cling a likelihood to show she can address the obligations of being a neutral no 1 option for the Storm now that Sue Fowl has retired and Breanna Stewart has departed for Fresh York. — Maloney
13. Brittney Griner — C, Phoenix Mercury
There could be a upright likelihood Griner will must shake off some rust at the commence of the season after lacking all of ultimate yr because of the her detainment in Russia. However, there could be absolute self assurance she is one amongst the splendid centers in WNBA historic past. The two-time Defensive Participant of the Year will enter the 2023 season in fourth pickle in the listing of all-time leaders with a complete of 716 blocks. Whereas Griner is legendary for being a shutdown defender, she can dominate in more than a number of areas too. In 2021, she became the league’s 2nd leading scorer with 20.5 points per game in the conventional season, while also adding 9.5 rebounds per contest. — Gonzalez
14. Kahleah Copper — G/F, Chicago Sky
Copper has a Finals MVP to her name and led the Sky in scoring final season, nonetheless she unruffled typically flew below the radar on a crew with legends similar to Parker and Vandersloot. This summer, Copper will one way or the opposite salvage her likelihood to shine on a brand original-explore Sky squad that can explore to her to e-book the potential. The hyper-athletic soar has made broad strides since entering the league, and there could be little reason to doubt that she can address more obligations on either side of the ball. Few gamers can net at the rim and in the support of the three-point line as simply as Copper, whose strength and quickness create her a demanding conceal. — Maloney
15. Napheesa Collier — F, Minnesota Lynx
Collier ignored the massive majority of ultimate season while getting better from giving birth to her daughter, nonetheless is support to 100% and in a position to transfer this summer. That is broad news for the Lynx and imperfect news for opponents. Collier could additionally unruffled swiftly remind each person that she’s a high-tier forward who can affect the sport on either side of the ball. In two of her three burly seasons, she’s averaged at the least 15 points, five rebounds, three assists and 2.5 shares (steals plus blocks) per game; splendid six more than a number of gamers cling carried out that more than one cases, and they’re all both unusual or future Hall of Famers. — Maloney
16. Jackie Younger — G/F, Las Vegas Aces
Closing season became the splendid we cling viewed of Younger since she became the No. 1 overall opt help in 2019. She averaged occupation-highs in scoring, 3-point taking pictures, rebounding and steals, and narrowly ignored assists as successfully. Her rewards were her first All-Giant name look, the Most Improved Participant award and a championship ring for helping lead the Aces to the title. Younger does appropriate about the whole lot successfully and would not want the ball in her fingers, which makes her a ultimate complementary player for this Aces crew. — Maloney
17. Brionna Jones — C, Connecticut Solar
Ever since her breakout advertising and marketing and marketing campaign in the bubble, Jones has been one amongst the splendid scorers in the league. Since the 2020 season, she has made a whopping 57.7 percent of her field procedure makes an attempt; over the span, splendid Sylvia Fowles made a elevated percentage. Jones became named an All-Giant name for the 2nd time final season and gained Sixth Participant of the Year, making it two consecutive seasons that she’s earned a foremost award. Her days as a reserve determine to be over, alternatively, now that Jonquel Jones has moved on, and the Solar will want her to replace a number of of the used MVP’s production. — Maloney
18. Ariel Atkins — G, Washington Mystics
After making the All-Defensive 2nd Team in the important four seasons of her occupation, Atkins became one way or the opposite is called an All-Defensive First Teamer final season and added one more All-Giant name look for upright measure. By nature of her form of play and personality, Atkins flies below the radar. But while she is per chance not one amongst the most widespread gamers, few affect a success as powerful as she does on either side of the ball. Being an surroundings friendly scorer and elite perimeter defender is amazingly demanding, nonetheless Atkins pulls it off. — Maloney
19. Allisha Gray — G/F, Atlanta Dream
A broad offseason alternate from the Wings to the Dream could additionally very successfully be appropriate what Gray must one way or the opposite fabricate the reputation she deserves; since a success Rookie of the Year, she has not got a single most foremost honor or award. Gray is coming off a occupation season in 2022 whereby she averaged 13.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, while taking pictures 40.8 percent from 3-point land and playing sturdy soar defense. She performed a foremost role in the Wings earning their first playoff get since 2009, and the Dream will hope she can cling a the same affect in Atlanta as they strive and pause their postseason drought. — Maloney
20. Kelsey Mitchell — G, Indiana Fever
The used No. 2 overall opt confirmed diverse flashes early in her occupation, nonetheless it absolutely wasn’t except final summer that she became in a position to assign the whole lot collectively on a consistent basis. Though she became snubbed from the All-Giant name Game, she carried out sixth in the league in scoring (18.4 per game), sixth in 3-point percentage (40.9 percent) and 12th in assists (4.2 per game); the splendid more than a number of player in the pause-12 in all three classes became Kelsey Plum. Mitchell seems to cling established herself as one amongst the league’s high guards, and her ascendence is one amongst the important reasons there could be one way or the opposite some hope in Indiana again. — Maloney
21. Arike Ogunbowale — G, Dallas Wings
In appropriate four seasons, Ogunbowale already has a scoring title, two All-Giant name appearances and two All-WNBA nods to her name. And but, few gamers will engender more debate about where they stand among the many league’s hierarchy. Her shot creation is a uncommon and treasured potential, she’s a gradual playmaker and rebounds successfully for her pickle, nonetheless she has never scored successfully and struggles on the defensive pause. All of which makes it demanding to pickle her on a listing relish this. She is an distinctive talent, even supposing, and deserves the abet of the doubt given what she’s carried out to this point. It could per chance be involving to explore how she fares below original head coach Latricia Trammell. — Maloney
22. Rhyne Howard — G/F, Atlanta Dream
Howard became the No. 1 overall opt final season and lived as a lot as expectations by making the All-Giant name Game and a success Rookie of the Year in attain-unanimous style as she helped the Dream fight for a playoff pickle. She unruffled has room to develop, of direction, nonetheless she has barely swiftly established herself as one amongst the league’s splendid thanks to her two-potential potential on the soar. It could per chance be relaxing to hunt her development this summer on a young Dream crew that’s taking a explore to salvage support to the playoffs for the important time since 2018. Can Howard lead them there in precisely her 2nd season? — Maloney
23. Natasha Cloud — G, Washington Mystics
Closing summer, Cloud grew to turn out to be the important player to e-book the league in assists and create the All-Defensive First Team in the identical season since All-Defensive teams were instituted in the 2005 season. Besides, she assign up occupation-highs across the board, averaging 10.7 points, 3.8 rebounds and 7 assists per game, as she led the Mystics to the joint-fourth-splendid legend in the league. It took Cloud some time, nonetheless she is now firmly one amongst the league’s better point guards and an elite perimeter defender. With any diminutive development as a scorer or shooter, she has a good likelihood to create her first All-Giant name look this season. — Maloney
24. Ezi Magbegor — C, Seattle Storm
If Tina Charles had never left the Mercury and signed with the Storm, we’d also very successfully be talking about Magbegor as the reigning Defensive Participant of the Year. The young heart averaged 3.5 shares per game as a starter final season and has the complete functionality to be a devastating pressure on that aspect of the ball. Her offensive game is unruffled a piece in progress, nonetheless she confirmed some optimistic flashes final season, especially in conjunction with her jumper and finishing around the basket. Magbegor goes to cling to protect close on a powerful bigger role for the Storm this season, and do not be stunned if it ends up in a Most Improved Participant award. — Maloney
25. Tiffany Hayes — G, Connecticut Solar
The faded guard ignored most of ultimate season because of the a knee trouble and in a single more nation commitments, and as a outcome has turn out to be something of a forgotten determine; her offseason alternate from the Dream to the Solar got little fanfare, especially when put next with more than a number of deals of the same magnitude. But create no mistake about it, Hayes is unruffled a skilled scorer and loads more demanding to guard than she became earlier in her occupation thanks to an improved 3-point shot. She couldn’t be in a position to replace Jonquel Jones in Connecticut, nonetheless she’ll give the Solar a perimeter threat they’ve been lacking. — Maloney
Sahil Sachdeva is an International award-winning serial entrepreneur and founder of Level Up PR. With an unmatched reputation in the PR industry, Sahil builds elite personal brands by securing placements in top-tier press, podcasts, and TV to increase brand exposure, revenue growth, and talent retention. His charismatic and results-driven approach has made him a go-to expert for businesses looking to take their branding to the next level.
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Sports
Charles Leclerc Secures Stunning Victory at Italian Grand Prix for Ferrari.
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Published
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Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc managed to secure a thrilling victory at his team’s home race in Monza, Italy, skillfully nursing his increasingly worn tires to the finish line ahead of a charging Oscar Piastri. Piastri, who had led for much of the race after overtaking his McLaren teammate and polesitter Lando Norris at the first chicane, had opted for a two-stop strategy due to concerns over tire degradation. As Norris also pitted, Ferrari’s Leclerc and Carlos Sainz took the lead. Despite Piastri’s late surge on fresher tires, he couldn’t close the gap and finished second, with Norris overtaking Sainz to take third.
The win sparked ecstatic celebrations from thousands of Italian tifosi who filled the grandstands, flooding onto the track to witness Leclerc celebrate on the podium, with a massive Ferrari banner and red smoke filling the air. Leclerc, who is third in the driver standings, expressed his joy, comparing the emotions to his 2019 victory and emphasizing the significance of winning at Monza and Monaco, which he considers the most important races of the season. He praised the tifosi and reflected on how special this win was.
Meanwhile, Norris was visibly disappointed, having dropped from first to third after a series of mistakes and a less effective race strategy. Despite this, he managed to close the gap to Max Verstappen in the driver standings and showcased McLaren’s competitive pace. Verstappen finished sixth but remains well ahead in the championship. Piastri, who finished second, expressed his frustration, acknowledging that while the pace was strong, the final result was disappointing. He admitted that the team’s strategy decisions played a role in the outcome, making the close second-place finish particularly painful.
![Carlos Alcaraz Stunned in US Open Second Round Upset](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gettyimages-2169366965.webp)
Carlos Alcaraz faced a stunning defeat in the US Open second round on Thursday, losing to Botic van de Zandschulp in straight sets. The Dutchman, ranked 74th in the world, triumphed over the 21-year-old Spaniard with scores of 6-1, 7-5, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows, New York.
Alcaraz, the world No. 3 who recently claimed an Olympic silver medal and the Wimbledon title, struggled from the start and never found his rhythm, ending the match with 28 errors. Van de Zandschulp sealed his victory with an ace, marking his first win over a top-10 player at a Grand Slam and delivering one of the tournament’s biggest upsets in recent years. The crowd applauded the Dutchman’s remarkable performance as Alcaraz acknowledged him and waved to the audience before leaving the court.
In a post-match interview with ESPN, Van de Zandschulp expressed his astonishment. “It’s been an incredible evening,” he said. “Playing my first night session at Arthur Ashe with such an amazing crowd was unbelievable.”
He admitted to feeling nervous while closing out the match but emphasized the need for composure against top players. “You have to stay unbelievably calm and focused; otherwise, they will take advantage.”
Alcaraz’s defeat ends his 15-match unbeaten streak at the US Open and marks his earliest exit from a major since Wimbledon 2021. Van de Zandschulp, who has only progressed past the fourth round of a Grand Slam once, will face British 25th seed Jack Draper in the third round on Saturday.
Sports
Ballon d’Or Favorite Vinícius Jr Exclusive: ‘I Aim to Make History with Real Madrid’
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Published
1 week agoon
August 28, 2024![20241208-vinicius-junior-interview-gfx](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20241208-vinicius-junior-interview-gfx.jpg)
Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Jr. is aiming for a historic season, revealing in an exclusive interview that he believes Los Blancos have the potential to achieve a historic treble. The Brazilian forward also expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of his Brazilian idols by winning the Ballon d’Or.
In a conversation at his Madrid home, Vinícius expressed confidence in Real Madrid’s chances of excelling across all major competitions this season as they prepare to defend their Champions League title.
“Every year, our goal is to win every title we can,” Vinícius stated, reflecting on the club’s ambitions before their sixth European Super Cup victory against Atalanta.
Could Madrid Achieve Their First-Ever Treble?
Despite its numerous successes, Real Madrid has never achieved a European treble, comprising the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. FC Barcelona remains the only Spanish club to have accomplished this feat, doing so in 2009 and 2015.
Vinícius Jr. explained why the treble has proven elusive, noting, “The Copa del Rey often disrupts our chances because it involves challenging teams throughout January, a period packed with games. This makes the cup competition particularly tricky.” While Vinícius emphasized that winning the club’s 16th Champions League is the squad’s top priority, he is also driven by the desire to “finally secure the treble.”
“The Champions League is the most challenging and prestigious competition, and it’s where Real Madrid always aims to excel,” he said. “Our fans expect us to win it, and so our focus is on achieving success in every competition we enter, with the ultimate goal of securing the treble.”
To truly grasp Vinícius Jr.’s impact over the past season, one needs to look at the numbers. His 15 league goals played a pivotal role in securing another Spanish title for Real Madrid. Additionally, his decisive goal in the Champions League final helped clinch Madrid’s second title in three years with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing for Real Madrid, so I cherish every moment as if it were the last,” Vinícius said. “Everyone wants to win with the best team in the world, and being able to score so many goals in important matches and contribute so significantly… I’m only 24, and I aim to continue this way for many more years, making history with this incredible team. Not everyone gets this opportunity, so I emphasize savoring every moment in this jersey.”
Despite missing two months of the 2023/24 season from November to January, Vinícius ended the campaign as Madrid’s top scorer, with 24 goals and 11 assists.
Dreams of Gold
With his ability to deliver in crucial moments and impressive statistics throughout the season for one of the world’s top clubs, it’s no surprise that Vinícius Jr. is the favorite to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best player in the world.
For Vinícius, claiming the award represents more than just personal achievement; it’s about honoring his Brazilian heritage and joining the ranks of his country’s greatest soccer stars. He aims to follow in the footsteps of legends like Marta, Ronaldo Nazário, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and Kaká, all of whom have been recognized as the best in the world at various points in their careers.
“Marta is a true icon in women’s football. I deeply admire her for elevating the sport and making women’s football as respected as it deserves to be. She’s a pioneer, much like Pelé and Ayrton Senna are to Brazil,” Vinícius said.
He added, “For the men’s game, Kaká, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo are my role models. Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, in particular, are close to me and consistently encourage me to strive for the Ballon d’Or.”
Vinícius also shared that he has recently spent time training with Ronaldo Nazário, receiving personal guidance from the legendary forward.
“I recently trained at Ronaldo’s house in Ibiza, and he advised me, ‘Spend a few more days training here, and you’ll be closer to winning the Ballon d’Or.’ These are players who have achieved extraordinary things, and competing for the Ballon d’Or and winning an award that they have won would be truly incredible.”
The New Galácticos Era
Teammates Jude Bellingham and the newly signed Kylian Mbappé will be Vinícius Jr.’s primary rivals for the Ballon d’Or in October, as this latest version of Real Madrid boasts exceptional talent across the board.
Despite Mbappé being a key contender for football’s top honor, Vinícius is thrilled to have the former PSG star join the Spanish giants. “The team has been very strong for a long time,” he said.
“With Mbappé’s arrival, people are talking about the potential for us to become unstoppable, but for now, we need to focus on having great training sessions and quickly building our understanding on the field.”
Vinícius, who has long admired Mbappé from afar, is excited about playing alongside the World Cup winner. He expressed his admiration for Mbappé’s style and achievements, saying, “I love how he plays and I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve this season. He’s joining us after scoring many goals and winning numerous titles, and he’s coming to the club he has always dreamed of playing for—Real Madrid.”
“God willing, Mbappé will score as many goals for us as he did with his previous team and the national team, and hopefully even more with us,” Vinícius said.
While Vinícius assisted on the opening goal and Mbappé scored in his official debut for Los Blancos during a 2-0 UEFA Super Cup victory, Madrid stumbled in their La Liga opener against a determined Mallorca side, settling for a 1-1 draw away from home. This result highlighted the need for the team to develop better cohesion before reaching their peak performance.
Despite the setback in Son Moix and experiencing some early struggles in their home opener against Real Valladolid—where they eventually secured a 3-0 win—the stage is set for what promises to be an exceptionally successful season for Madrid.
Focused on Achieving Success with Madrid
Recently, there have been rumors suggesting that Vinícius Jr. was offered an astonishing $1 billion to move to Saudi Arabia, similar to speculation about his new teammate Mbappé in July 2023.
Despite the buzz, the Brazilian star made his future intentions clear: “I always strive to be among the best, and with each passing day at Real Madrid, I grow more confident.”
“I’ve already won two Champions Leagues, and I play alongside teammates who have each won six titles—like Dani Carvajal. Their experience motivates us daily to push beyond our limits andshows that anything is possible with our current team shows that anything is possible with our current team.
Achieving two Champions League victories in three years was incredibly challenging. Staying at the top level is even harder, so my goal is to maintain this level of performance for a long time and win as many Champions League titles as Carvajal, Luka Modrić, Nacho, and Toni Kroos, who have each won six.
We might have one of the best teams for the coming decade, and now it’s up to us to demonstrate our capability on the pitch. With each game, my teammates and I are working towards winning even more titles for Real Madrid.”
Sports
Design Unveiled for Grand Stade Hassan II: A Future Mega-Stadium for the 2030 World Cup
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Published
2 weeks agoon
August 23, 2024![grand-stade-hassan- 2030 World cup](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/grand-stade-hassan-ii-08.webp)
The final of the 2030 FIFA World Cup is just under six years away, and the design for the stadium hoping to host the grand event has finally been unveiled.
The Grand Stade Hassan II, located in El Mansouria, Morocco—one of the three co-hosting countries alongside Spain and Portugal—is being hailed as potentially “the largest football stadium in the world.” Designed by Oualolou + Choi and Populous, it aims for a staggering capacity of 115,000.
Set on a 100-hectare (about 247 acres) site north of Casablanca, the stadium’s design is inspired by a “moussem,” a traditional communal tent, with an aluminum lattice covering the stands and tiered gardens. The stadium will feature a botanical garden on the ground floor. According to Tarik Oualalou, design principal and founding partner at Oualolou + Choi, the design is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture, combining traditional elements with modern expressions.
The stadium’s layout is tailored for World Cup events, with nearly 30,000 seats dedicated to general admission fans at each end and the central area reserved for boxes, hospitality, VIPs, and VVIPs.
“This will be a truly iconic venue for Morocco and football, becoming one of the world’s great stadia,” said Christopher Lee, managing director at Populous, EMEA. The Grand Stade Hassan II will face competition from other massive stadiums, such as the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, India, which holds 132,000 spectators, and the Rungrado 1st of May Stadium in Pyongyang, North Korea, with a capacity of 114,000.
Populous, known for designing the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Emirates Stadium, is behind this ambitious project. After multiple unsuccessful bids, Morocco secured its place as a co-host for the 2030 World Cup. The final decision on which venue will host the final is still pending, though Real Madrid’s renovated Estadio Santiago Bernabéu is a strong contender.
Preparations at the site outside Casablanca are underway, with Oualolou + Choi and Populous working to bring this grand vision to life in the coming years.
Sports
Success at Paris Olympics Sparks Optimism for Men’s College Gymnastics Coaches
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Published
2 weeks agoon
August 22, 2024![2024-07-29t224107z-470550051-mt1usatoday23858243-rtrmadp-3-olympics-gymnastics](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-07-29t224107z-470550051-mt1usatoday23858243-rtrmadp-3-olympics-gymnastics.webp)
Men’s gymnastics in the U.S. has been struggling for decades, with numerous high school and college programs shutting down, including notable Big Ten programs like the University of Minnesota and University of Iowa, which were cut in 2021.
However, the U.S. team’s performance at the Paris Olympics, composed entirely of NCAA gymnasts, has renewed optimism among college coaches. The Olympians hailed from Stanford, the University of Michigan, Penn State, and the defunct University of Minnesota program. Despite representing a fifth of all current programs, this is a small fraction of the 15 active programs—12 in Division I and three in Division III.
A bright spot for the sport appeared in the fall of 2021, when Simpson College and Greenville University announced new men’s gymnastics programs. This was a notable development, as no new teams had been added in 60 years. Penn State Head Coach Randy Jepson expressed enthusiasm for this momentum.
Though Simpson and Greenville are smaller Division III schools compared to large Division I institutions like the University of Michigan, their competitive spirit is evident. Simpson Head Coach Colin Payne emphasized focusing on their own performance rather than comparing facilities.
Despite their size, Simpson and Greenville have already shown competitive prowess, with Greenville ranking higher than William & Mary and Army at the end of the past season.
The early success of new gymnastics programs is promising, but historical data suggests that winning alone may not be enough to ensure a program’s longevity. Eleven programs that once won national championships have since been discontinued.
Financial stability often determines a program’s survival. While sports like football and basketball typically generate revenue, gymnastics faces unique challenges. With recent changes in NCAA policy—such as the introduction of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals and student-athletes being treated more like employees—there are new opportunities for gymnastics. This shift follows California’s 2019 law allowing athletes to earn endorsement money and a landmark 2021 U.S. Supreme Court decision permitting education-related payments, which have redefined college sports.
Simpson College Head Coach Colin Payne sees potential in merging this private enterprise model with college athletics. He believes that the specialization and existing privatized model in gymnastics could benefit from NIL opportunities, which are less common in other sports.
The recent Olympic success provides an additional boost. “In my coaching career, this is probably one of the most optimistic points for me,” Payne told CNN. “We have genuine interest now, and we hope to leverage the momentum from the Olympics and the success of athletes like Stephen Nedoroscik.”
Nedoroscik, who won bronze for the U.S. in the team event and on the pommel horse, has already had a significant impact on the sport. His success has sparked unprecedented interest in his hometown gym, with many parents eager to enroll their sons. His recent appearance on the Tonight Show also highlights the growing visibility of gymnastics.
The pommel horse specialist surprised many by making the Team USA squad, given he competes in only one of the six events in men’s gymnastics. However, his selection proved invaluable as his performance was crucial in securing bronze in the team event, alongside his individual achievements.
While Nedoroscik is technically exceptional, it’s his distinctive personality that has truly captivated the public. Known for his thick-rimmed glasses—leading the internet to nickname him the “Clark Kent” of Team USA—he also stands out for his sideline meditation and love for Rubik’s cubes.
His college coach, Randy Jepson, views Nedoroscik as a prime example of a gymnast who thrives in the sport. “There are many boys who might not fit into traditional sports like basketball, football, or soccer. They may see the world differently, be more cerebral, and still seek athletic opportunities,” Jepson said. “Gymnastics offers that chance due to its unique challenges and excitement, providing a fun and fulfilling experience for those who are a bit different.”
Other coaches agree with this perspective, recognizing that gymnastics appeals to a specific type of athlete who needs programs available at all stages of development to nurture their interest.
“Many talented gymnasts, who might not reach Olympic levels but have significant potential, step away from the sport once they reach high school because there aren’t enough opportunities,” Payne noted.
To build on the success of the Olympic team, there must be opportunities for gymnasts from youth through high school and into college. “In gymnastics, the Olympics is essentially the professional level,” Payne added.
While many elite female gymnasts turn professional right out of high school, most members of the U.S. men’s national team are currently in college or recent graduates. This means that fans can see these world-class athletes compete in NCAA meets every weekend without having to travel to Paris.
“The level of gymnastics displayed at NCAA championships, and even at conference meets, is on par with Olympic-level performances,” Jepson said.
Despite competing against one another, teams understand they share the common goal of growing the sport. “Men’s gymnastics is a collective effort, and it’s moving in a positive direction,” Greenville University Head Coach Zach Peters told CNN Sport. “It’s rare to see such strong relationships among head coaches.”
The sport still has room for growth, but the recent success of Team USA offers hope for a brighter future.
“Fans are witnessing the best gymnasts competing every weekend during the collegiate season,” Jepson said. “They’re seeing top-tier performances consistently.”
Sports
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese Set New WNBA Milestones
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Published
3 weeks agoon
August 20, 2024![20240819-fjjgjgjg](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/20240819-fjjgjgjg.webp)
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, both former college basketball stars, are now making significant strides in the WNBA. On Sunday, Clark led the Indiana Fever to a commanding 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm, while setting a new league record.
Clark scored 23 points and recorded her 225th assist during the game, surpassing Ticha Penicheiro’s long-standing record for the most assists by a rookie in WNBA history. Clark, who tops the league with an average of 8.3 assists per game, expressed her gratitude for breaking the record held by Penicheiro, a revered figure in the sport.
The historic assist occurred in the second quarter, and Penicheiro celebrated the milestone on X (formerly Twitter), praising Clark’s achievement. “Records are meant to be broken…it shows growth and evolution. Can’t think of a better player to break it,” Penicheiro wrote. The Fever also shared a video of Penicheiro congratulating Clark, who ended the game with nine assists and a season total of 232.
In her standout rookie season, Caitlin Clark has already set several WNBA records, including becoming the first rookie to achieve a triple-double and setting a new high with 19 assists in a single game. This past Sunday, Clark added another milestone by surpassing Ticha Penicheiro’s record for most assists by a rookie, finishing with 232 assists and leading the Indiana Fever to a 92-75 victory over the Seattle Storm.
Meanwhile, Angel Reese is making waves of her own. In a game on Sunday, Reese scored 19 points and grabbed 20 rebounds in an 86-68 loss to the Phoenix Mercury, becoming the fastest player in WNBA history to record 20 double-doubles in a single season. Reese reached this achievement in just 27 games and is now only two double-doubles away from tying Tina Charles’ rookie record for the most double-doubles in a season, as noted by ESPN. Earlier this season, Reese also set the record for most consecutive double-doubles.
As the WNBA resumes play after the Olympic break, both rookies are poised to continue their record-breaking performances. Clark’s Indiana Fever (13-15) will next face the Minnesota Lynx, while Reese’s Chicago Sky (11-16) will take on the Connecticut Sun. With their exceptional play, it’s clear that Clark and Reese will keep making history this season.
Sports
Refugee Olympic Team’s Cindy Ngamba Makes History with First Medal, Aiming to Inspire Millions
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Published
3 weeks agoon
August 15, 2024![01-gettyimages-2166236100](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/01-gettyimages-2166236100.webp)
Cindy Winner Djankeu Ngamba’s journey epitomizes resilience and determination. The 25-year-old athlete made history by becoming the first-ever medalist for the Refugee Olympic Team, securing a bronze in the women’s 75kg boxing category at the Summer Olympics in Paris.
Ngamba, born in Cameroon, faced numerous hardships from a young age. At 11, she moved to the United Kingdom seeking a brighter future, only to confront additional struggles with citizenship and endure time in a detention camp due to paperwork issues.
Her life took a transformative turn at 15 when she discovered boxing. “Every day is a learning day in boxing. You have your ups and downs, just like in life in general,” Ngamba shared with CNN Sport’s Amanda Davies. Boxing not only served as a mental refuge but also became a source of empowerment and self-discovery.
Through boxing, Ngamba found solace and strength, overcoming the challenges of her past, including her difficult immigration process. Despite her rising success and training with the Great Britain boxing team, she continues to fight for British citizenship. Ngamba was granted refugee status due to the criminalization of same-sex activity in Cameroon, adding another layer to her inspiring story.
Team of Refugee Athletes
The Refugee Olympic Team Provides a Platform for Displaced Athletes to Shine on the Global Stage. Comprising 37 athletes this year, the team aims to showcase how refugees enrich society.
‘We should embrace refugees as valuable assets to our communities. They have the potential to be outstanding role models, just like the members of the Refugee Olympic Team,’ said Yusra Mardini, former refugee Olympian, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador, and subject of the Netflix film ‘The Swimmers,’ in an interview with CNN.
These athletes may have lost everything and had to start anew in a foreign country, building new connections, learning a new language, and finding a sense of home. Sports can offer them an essential escape, aiding in their mental health, overcoming trauma, and rebuilding their self-esteem,’ Mardini continued.
Worldwide Refugee Crisis
Ngamba’s bronze medal is a landmark achievement for the Refugee Olympic Team and a beacon of hope for millions of displaced individuals globally.
‘This medal signifies that I am human, just like everyone else. Despite numerous obstacles, I stood firm and emerged victorious,’ Ngamba shared.
‘I hope that by winning this Olympic medal and representing refugees worldwide, people will recognize us as athletes who aspire to reach great heights.’
As of May 2024, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) reported a record 120 million forcibly displaced people around the world.
Escalating Tensions
A touching moment followed Ngamba’s bronze medal win when Team GB’s Lewis Richardson draped his Union Jack flag around her during the celebrations in Paris.
‘It meant the world to me,’ Ngamba said. ‘Lewis, the GB boxers, and I have shared the ring and they’ve always treated me like family. Sharing that moment with him, knowing our mutual struggles, was deeply emotional.’
Ngamba’s achievement comes amid rising anti-immigrant sentiment in various countries, including the UK.
The nation is facing its most severe unrest in over a decade, with far-right, anti-immigrant violence surging following a misinformation campaign linked to a stabbing attack that killed three children in Southport, northern England.
In stark contrast to these protests, Ngamba’s Olympic podium appearance highlights the positive impact refugees can have. Her historic medal for the Refugee Olympic Team not only represents her personal resilience but also symbolizes the broader contributions of refugees striving for a better future.
Sports
McDonald’s France Playfully Considers Dropping Classic Curry Sauce After Steph Curry’s Victory Over French Team
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Published
3 weeks agoon
August 14, 2024![gallupdate01-gettyimages-2166233959-jpg](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gallupdate01-gettyimages-2166233959-jpg.webp)
McDonald’s France took a playful jab at the recent men’s basketball final during the Paris Olympics with a cheeky social media post. Following Steph Curry’s stellar performance—where he scored eight three-pointers to propel Team USA to a 98-87 victory over France—the French branch of the fast-food chain shared a tongue-in-cheek message on Instagram.
Their post, which garnered nearly 15,000 likes within just seven hours, humorously suggested they might be “considering removing” their Classic Curry dipping sauce in light of Curry’s outstanding play. The post, accompanied by a photo of the beloved sauce, was a clear nod to Curry’s impressive performance, which included four critical three-pointers in a crucial 2-minute and 13-second stretch during the final moments of the game.
McDonald’s France’s spokesperson clarified to Media that the post was a lighthearted reference to Curry’s remarkable contribution in the game. This defeat was a tough blow for the host nation, which had been narrowly trailing the U.S. by just three points with under three minutes left on the clock. The loss echoed a similar close defeat to the United States in the gold medal match at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, where France fell short in a tight 87-82 game.
Sports
France’s Summer of Sport Heats Up with the Launch of the Tour de France Femmes
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Published
4 weeks agoon
August 13, 2024![gettyimages-2165958686](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/gettyimages-2165958686.webp)
The excitement from the Summer Games is still buzzing as the annual Tour de France Femmes began on Monday, following the closing ceremony in Paris. This year’s race, which features the world’s top female cyclists, started with an eight-stage event in the Netherlands due to the logistical demands of the recent Olympics.
In the sunny setting of Rotterdam, 153 riders lined up for the third edition of the race. Dutch cyclist Charlotte Kool of DSM-Firmenich PostNL claimed victory in the opening stage, marking her first-ever stage win and making history as the first stage win outside France for this event.
Charlotte Kool surged ahead of the pack to claim victory in the opening stage of the Tour de France Femmes, finishing more than a bike length ahead with a time of 2 hours, 47 minutes, and 40 seconds. Overwhelmed by her achievement, Kool covered her mouth in disbelief before celebrating with raised arms as the crowd in The Hague cheered.
After dismounting, the Dutch rider sat on the road, covering her face with her hands, and described the win as a dream come true. “This is the best day of my life,” she said, visibly moved.
The field also includes 2024 Olympic road race champion Kristen Faulkner from the US, and defending champion Demi Vollering, who is back to retain her yellow jersey.
The Tour de France Femmes continues with a dynamic schedule starting Tuesday, featuring two stages. Stage 2 will cover 43.3 miles (69.7 kilometers) from Dordrecht to Rotterdam, followed by Stage 3, which is a solo time trial later that afternoon.
Stage 4 will see the race cross into Belgium, from Valkenburg to Liège. Thursday’s Stage 5 will take the peloton into France, navigating through eastern regions with subsequent stages running from Bastogne to Amnéville, Remiremont to Morteau, and Champagnole to Le Grand-Bornand.
The grand finale on Sunday will culminate in the French Alps, with Stage 8 concluding atop the legendary Alpe d’Huez.
The 2022 edition marked a revival of the Tour de France Femmes, a race with a storied history dating back to September 1955.
![image1](https://levelupmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/image1-3.jpg)
Prashant Pujar, a visionary in Sports Science and Strength and Conditioning, has transformed the landscape of athletic training in India with his innovative methodologies. His journey, marked by remarkable achievements and groundbreaking inventions, stands as a testament to his expertise and dedication to enhancing athletic performance.
Prashant Pujar’s journey in Sports Science began at a young age, working with college and school-level players. His passion and commitment led him to establish a department dedicated to Strength and Conditioning at the Karnataka State Cricket Association. This foundation paved the way for training young U-16 and U-19 national players at the National Cricket Academy, many of whom now represent India on the international stage. Pujar’s expertise extended to training Indian players in prestigious tournaments conducted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), including the Duleep Trophy, the Irani Trophy, Karnataka Premier League, U-16 Hanumant, Deodhar Trophy, and Vizzy Trophy.
Prashant Pujar’s most significant contribution to sports science is his patented invention, Sports Science Technology, recognized by the Government of India. This innovative system includes the Super Sixes Test, specifically designed to assess and enhance sports performance. His unique approach involves creating new methods of assessments, training systems, and recovery protocols that ensure athletes reach their optimal fitness levels.
Pujar has trained up to 150 athletes who have represented India at the international level and thousands of other athletes. His impact on the sports community is profound, having been instrumental in the success of 17 championship-winning teams, including the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy. His dedication to nurturing talent from the U-16 level has seen these athletes rise to represent India, contributing to the nation’s success on the global stage.
Despite facing significant challenges, including massive cyber attacks that delayed the launch of his product, Prashant Pujar remained steadfast in his vision. His resilience and perseverance have inspired many in the field of sports science. By creating a roadmap for athletes’ fitness from the beginning to their peak, Pujar has laid down parameters that ensure sustained excellence in performance.
Prashant Pujar’s vision extends beyond training elite athletes. Through his brand, Strength and Conditioning Powerhouse, he aims to bring his Sports Science Technology to coaches and trainers who can understand and apply these methodologies successfully. His goal is to help athletes and the general population achieve better fitness levels, ultimately contributing to the development of legendary athletes.
What sets Prashant Pujar apart from his peers is the originality and uniqueness of his system. His invention in sports science is a comprehensive approach that integrates strength and conditioning, tailored training methodologies, and recovery systems. This holistic approach ensures that athletes not only achieve peak performance but also maintain their fitness over time.
With all the love and accolades received for his invention, Prashant Pujar acknowledges the existence of forces that may try to suppress and derail his vision. His message to the world is clear: “With all the love and the accolades we received for the invention, there also lies a nexus that wants to suppress the invention, defame, and derail the vision simply because they don’t want you to do it.”
Prashant Pujar’s journey in sports science is a story of innovation, dedication, and resilience. His patented Sports Science Technology has revolutionized the way athletes train and perform, setting new benchmarks in the field. As a pioneer in sports science, Pujar’s vision is to empower coaches, trainers, and athletes, helping them achieve and maintain peak performance. His unique approach and groundbreaking methodologies continue to inspire and transform the world of sports.
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