Yahoo Sports AM: The 4 Nations Face-Off
Today's Sports Roundup: Triumphs, Upsets, and a Look Ahead
Shiffrin's Historic Win and Other Headlines
Mikaela Shiffrin etched her name in the history books at the World Championships, securing her eighth gold and 15th overall medal – both modern-era records! Alongside teammate Breezy Johnson, Shiffrin dominated the new team combined event, solidifying her place as a skiing legend.
Across the pond, Real Madrid pulled off a stunning comeback against Manchester City in the Champions League, scoring twice in the dying minutes to snatch a 3-2 victory. The football world watched in awe as the Spanish giants orchestrated a thrilling upset.
In MLB news, the offseason continues to shake things up. Kenley Jansen, MLB's active saves leader, inked a one-year, $10 million deal with the Angels, while Clayton Kershaw is reportedly close to returning to the Dodgers for an incredible 18th season. Meanwhile, newly acquired Raptor Brandon Ingram secured his future in Toronto with a three-year, $120 million extension.
Best-on-Best Hockey Returns with the 4 Nations Face-Off
Forget the All-Star Game; this year, it's all about national pride! The NHL is hosting the 4 Nations Face-Off, a week-long tournament pitting Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United States against each other in a thrilling display of best-on-best hockey. This tournament serves as a precursor to the NHL’s return to the Olympics in 2024, the first Winter Games featuring NHL players since Sochi 2014.
The round-robin tournament runs through Monday, culminating in a championship game on February 20th. Games are split between Montreal's Bell Centre and Boston's TD Garden. Intriguingly, the Capitals and Sharks are the only teams without representation. With 25 of the league's top 50 scorers participating, the action promises to be electric.
While an overwhelming 82% of NHL players surveyed by The Athletic expressed excitement for the tournament, some voiced a preference for a break instead. One player, even participating in the event, admitted, "I'd rather go back home… I'd rather a two-week break.” Clearly, the intensity and demands of the tournament aren't lost on everyone.
For a full breakdown of the rosters and expert analysis, check out The Hockey News' 4 Nations Face-Off line analysis.
Durant Joins the Elite 30,000 Point Club
Kevin Durant cemented his legacy as one of basketball's all-time greats, becoming the eighth player in NBA history to reach the 30,000-point milestone. Despite a loss to the Grizzlies, Durant's 34-point performance was a testament to his incredible scoring prowess. He now sits among legends like LeBron James, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Michael Jordan. Up next, Durant will make his 15th All-Star Game appearance, trailing only LeBron, Kareem, and Kobe Bryant in All-Star selections.
Emma Hayes: Revolutionizing the USWNT with a "Female Blueprint"
USWNT head coach Emma Hayes has a bold vision: to dismantle the men's soccer blueprint and reshape the women's game. Hayes, the highest-paid coach in women's soccer, is challenging the status quo, questioning conventional wisdom and advocating for a "female lens" in coaching, training, and even marketing.
"I've worked my entire career to get to a place where I've got the ability to influence, and the power to influence something much broader and much bigger than me," Hayes stated, demonstrating her commitment to driving meaningful change.
Extra Points and Upsets Galore
Indiana snapped a five-game losing streak with a win over No. 11 Michigan State, joining Kansas State (over No. 13 Arizona) and UConn (over No. 24 Creighton) in a night of upsets in men's college basketball.
Eagles offensive lineman Darian Kinnard achieved a rare feat, becoming just the second player in NFL history to win three consecutive Super Bowls.
The Women's Lacrosse League launched with a thrilling inaugural game, the New York Charging edging out the Maryland Charm, 14-13. The exciting new league features two more inaugural games tonight.
And in a display of sheer dominance, the US U-17 national team demolished the U.S. Virgin Islands 22-0 in a World Cup qualifier – a record-breaking performance for any U.S. team at any level.
Tonight's Watchlist: NBA, Champions League, and More!
Catch an exciting NBA doubleheader on ESPN featuring an Eastern Conference contender and a Western Conference team struggling through a tough week. Don't miss the Champions League playoffs, the 4 Nations Face-Off, a top-ranked St. John's team taking on Villanova, and the historic Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park—Everton's final game in the stadium before moving to a new home next season.
NFL Coaching Carousel Trivia
With Kellen Moore's appointment as the Saints' new head coach all coaching vacancies are now filled. Can you name the six other head coaches hired this offseason (Patriots, Bears, Jets, Raiders, Jaguars, Cowboys)? Answer: Mike Vrabel (Patriots), Ben Johnson (Bears), Aaron Glenn (Jets), Pete Carroll (Raiders), Liam Coen (Jaguars), Brian Schottenheimer (Cowboys).
Fantasy Baseball is Just Around the Corner
Football season may be over, but fantasy sports fans have something new to look forward to: baseball! Get a head start on your draft prep with our expert first-round mock draft. Don’t forget to sign up for Yahoo Fantasy!