American NBA team, based in the Los Angeles area, plays at Intuit Dome since 2024
Russell Westbrook has publicly retired after an 18-year NBA career, marked by a 2016-17 MVP season and a record 42 triple-doubles in a single season. His farewell video, narrated by Michael B. Jordan, confirms the end of an era for one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers.
The Cavaliers have secured a multi-year deal with James Harden, including a player option for 2028-29 and a trade kicker, after Harden declined a $42.3 million option earlier this summer. The move follows Cleveland’s recent trades, including acquiring Peyton Watson from Denver. Harden has averaged 20.5 points and 7.7 assists in 26 games for Cleveland this season, and his career marks span 1,221 games across multiple teams.
A federal judge has ruled in Lizzo’s favor on a key point in a 2023 harassment case, dismissing the plaintiff’s claim of disability under the ADA and moving the case closer to a possible trial. Separate suits involving dancers remain unresolved, while other lawsuits against the singer’s team proceed in stateside courts.
The NBA has found misconduct by the Clippers tied to off‑court income deals for Kawhi Leonard, resulting in five first‑round picks forfeited between 2029 and 2033, a $30 million fine, and suspensions for owner Steve Ballmer and team executives. Leonard has expressed responsibility for lapses and is focusing on the future after the situation. The league notes ongoing compliance monitoring for five years.
The NFL has staged its first regular-season game in Australia, selling out Melbourne’s 100,000-seat MCG and signaling a long-term push into the Asia-Pacific region. The Rams host the 49ers in a high-profile clash that tests logistics, fan demand, and future scheduling.
Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon has resigned and warned that Anthropic and OpenAI are "racing straight to self‑improving superintelligence" and "gambling with our lives," saying builders privately believe AI could kill humanity within the decade. Current and former employees, including Evan Hubinger, have publicly echoed similar existential concerns, prompting fresh calls in Washington for limits and oversight.
The Clippers have faced a sweeping NBA punishment including a $30 million fine, five first-round picks forfeited, and a one-year suspension for Ballmer. Ballmer has publicly apologized, stating the team is complying with penalties and focusing on moving forward as Leonard’s trade to Toronto remains on hold pending the investigation.
Formula One has signed a 10-year agreement with Rwanda to host the African Grand Prix on a new, purpose-built FIA Grade 1 circuit in Bugesera, about 40km south of Kigali. The deal, announced in Kigali, has set the first race for the early 2030s and forms part of a wider development to drive tourism, jobs and motorsport training while prompting sportswashing concerns.
The Atlanta Dream have moved to a 2-1 lead in the WNBA Finals after a 97-71 win over the Golden State Valkyries. Angel Reese posts a double-double in her three Finals appearances, while Rhyne Howard and Naz Hillmon contribute strong supporting games. The series now shifts to Atlanta for Games 3 and 4.