Halifax security forum: United States senator questions Canada's military spendingFlambards closed and Cornish soldier was killed as news heated up in November
(All times Eastern) Schedule subject to change and/or blackouts Monday, Dec. 23 COLLEGE BASKETBALL (MEN’S) 5:30 p.m. ESPNU — Diamond Head Classic: TBD, Consolation Semifinal, Honolulu 7 p.m. SECN — MTSU at Tennessee 8 p.m. ESPNU — Diamond Head Classic: TBD, Semifinal, Honolulu 10 p.m. BTN — Seattle at Washington 10:30 p.m. ESPN2 — Diamond Head Classic: TBD, Semifinal, Honolulu 12:30 a.m. (Tuesday) People are also reading... ESPN2 — Diamond Head Classic: TBD, Consolation Semifinal Honolulu COLLEGE FOOTBALL 11 a.m. ESPN — The Myrtle Beach Bowl: Coastal Carolina vs. UTSA, Conway, S.C. 2:30 p.m. ESPN — The Famous Idaho Potato Bowl: N. Illinois vs. Fresno St., Boise, Idaho NBA BASKETBALL 7 p.m. NBATV — San Antonio at Philadelphia 10 p.m. NBATV — Indiana at Golden State NFL FOOTBALL 8:15 p.m. ABC — New Orleans at Green Bay ESPN — New Orleans at Green Bay The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive TV listings provided by LiveSportsOnTV . Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!Direxion Daily META Bear 1X Shares (NASDAQ:METD) Short Interest Down 21.9% in December
AI is quickly becoming a big part of our world, and Lightchain AI (LCAI) is leading the way by blending artificial intelligence with blockchain technology. With its fresh approach to governance and an attractive presale price of just $0.003, LCAI is ready to make a real difference in the crypto space. What sets it apart is not just the cutting-edge technology, but also its focus on solving real-world problems and a clear, exciting plan for the future. Introduction to Lightchain AI (LCAI) Lightchain AI (LCAI) is a groundbreaking blockchain project that brings artificial intelligence into the world of decentralized applications and governance. With cool innovations like the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), Lightchain AI is working to make blockchain more efficient, secure, and fair for everyone. LCAI's Innovative Governance Model Lightchain AI (LCAI) brings a new way to run things that gives token holders power through shared choices. This open way makes sure that everyone has a say in how the platform grows, helping clear understanding and group involvement. By mixing smart machines with block chain tech, LCAI's rulesystem changes with new ideas keeping a lively and quick to respond system. This blend of AI and split up rule making puts Lightchain AI at the lead of tech progress. Real-World Utility and Visionary Roadmap Lightchain AI (LCAI) is making blockchain more useful by combining it with the power of artificial intelligence. Whether it’s smart AI tools for decentralized systems or custom solutions for various industries, LCAI is opening up exciting new possibilities for developers and businesses to create and grow in a practical way. These features, driven by the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), go beyond speculation, providing tangible benefits for users. Lightchain AI (LCAI) is changing the game in the blockchain world by bringing real-world applications powered by artificial intelligence. With tools for decentralized AI and solutions for different industries, LCAI is offering practical and helpful innovations for both developers and businesses. Thanks to the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), it’s all about creating real benefits that users can actually use, making a big impact in the space. Guided by a visionary roadmap, LCAI plans to introduce advanced AI integrations, expand decentralized governance, and foster global adoption. With clear milestones and innovative goals, the platform is set to define the future of blockchain technology. Combining Blockchain with Artificial Intelligence Lightchain AI (LCAI) bridges blockchain and artificial intelligence, creating a platform where decentralized systems benefit from AI-driven efficiencies. By leveraging the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI enhances smart contract performance and enables advanced automation, setting a new benchmark in blockchain technology. Lightchain AI (LCAI) is bringing something new to blockchain by combining it with artificial intelligence. This integration makes it easier for industries to use smart solutions for real-world problems. With a focus on growth and creativity, Lightchain AI is paving the way for future applications, blending two powerful technologies for a brighter tomorrow. Lightchain AI's Potential Growth in the Crypto Market Lightchain AI (LCAI) is set to make a big impact in the crypto market with its smart mix of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. With cool features like the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI is tackling important issues like scalability and efficiency. This makes LCAI an exciting and powerful player in the crypto space! Experts are excited about LCAI’s potential, with some predicting its value could reach $0.50 by 2025, offering big rewards for those who invest early. What makes this even more exciting is LCAI’s real-world impact in areas like healthcare, finance, and logistics, which makes it a great option for a variety of investors looking for long-term growth. Why LCAI is a Top Contender in the Crypto Community Lightchain AI (LCAI) is making waves in the crypto world with its exciting mix of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology. With cool features like the Proof of Intelligence (PoI) consensus mechanism and the Artificial Intelligence Virtual Machine (AIVM), LCAI is all about boosting scalability, security, and efficiency for decentralized apps. It’s an innovative project that’s shaping up to be a game changer in the future of crypto. The LCAI token presale has been creating quite a buzz, raising over $2.2 million and drawing in investors from well-known communities like Solana and Toncoin. If you're interested in getting involved and learning more, be sure to check out the official Lightchain AI website! https://lightchain.ai https://lightchain.ai/lightchain-whitepaper.pdf https://x.com/LightchainAI https://t.me/LightchainProtocol Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.Tottenham suffer devastating injury blow as 28-year-old undergoes surgery on broken ankleDisclaimer: This is paid sponsored content in the Morning Blend. All opinions and views are of the advertiser and do not reflect the same of KGUN-TV. Learn more at eeeveterans.org
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WOLF Equity Alert: Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check, LLP Alerts Shareholders of Securities ...Quantum-Si incorporated ( NASDAQ:QSI – Get Free Report ) saw some unusual options trading on Thursday. Investors acquired 4,441 call options on the stock. This represents an increase of 162% compared to the typical volume of 1,696 call options. Hedge Funds Weigh In On Quantum-Si A number of institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. XTX Topco Ltd bought a new position in shares of Quantum-Si in the 2nd quarter worth $25,000. SG Americas Securities LLC purchased a new stake in Quantum-Si during the third quarter valued at about $53,000. Green Alpha Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Quantum-Si by 35.4% during the third quarter. Green Alpha Advisors LLC now owns 175,055 shares of the company’s stock worth $154,000 after purchasing an additional 45,796 shares during the last quarter. Barclays PLC boosted its holdings in shares of Quantum-Si by 210.5% in the 3rd quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 196,826 shares of the company’s stock worth $173,000 after purchasing an additional 133,438 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its position in shares of Quantum-Si by 3.5% during the 2nd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 322,460 shares of the company’s stock valued at $339,000 after purchasing an additional 10,811 shares during the last quarter. 39.90% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors. Quantum-Si Stock Performance Shares of QSI stock opened at $3.60 on Friday. The company has a market capitalization of $513.77 million, a PE ratio of -5.63 and a beta of 3.20. Quantum-Si has a 52-week low of $0.61 and a 52-week high of $4.14. The business’s fifty day moving average is $1.20 and its 200 day moving average is $1.06. Analyst Ratings Changes View Our Latest Report on QSI About Quantum-Si ( Get Free Report ) Quantum-Si incorporated, a life sciences company, engages in the development of single-molecule detection platform to enable Next Generation Protein Sequencing (NGPS). The company's platform is comprised of the Platinum NGPS instrument; the Platinum Analysis Software service; and reagent kits and semiconductor chips for use with its instruments. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Quantum-Si Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Quantum-Si and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .NEW YORK — Juan Soto put on a New York Mets jersey and cap for the first time Thursday after his record $765 million, 15-year contract was finalized and talked about what made the difference in his decision. “They showed me a lot of love. ... How they're going to make it comfortable for me,” he said. "That's one of the things I was looking for." Soto was introduced at Citi Field a day after his deal was finalized. Speaking in the Piazza 31 Club, he was flanked by Mets owner Steve Cohen, president of baseball operations David Stearns and his agent, Scott Boras. “They always talk about family. They always talk about stick(ing) together,” Soto said. “That's one of the things that opened my eyes.” Security men in gray suits wearing earpieces were off to the side. Soto walked in led by Boras, wearing a dark suit, black turtle neck shirt and gold chain with his No. 22. “I’m excited by the Mets future,” Cohen said. “I think this accelerates our goal of winning championships.” Soto chose the Mets' offer on Sunday, deciding to leave the Yankees after helping them reach the World Series in his only season in the Bronx. SAN FRANCISCO — Willy Adames wasted little time making one thing clear: He wants to play all 162 games for the San Francisco Giants. So when introduced as their new shortstop Thursday, Adames looked to his left and gently put a hand on manager Bob Melvin's right shoulder, smiled and said, “if he lets me.” Melvin might not need much convincing, thrilled to suddenly have stability at a position that lacked continuity this year in his first season as skipper. Adames didn't hesitate to also offer a thought to new boss Buster Posey: He plans to win a few championships with the Giants just like the catcher-turned-executive did here. Surrounded by his parents and other family and friends, Adames was formally introduced and welcomed at Oracle Park after signing a $182 million, seven-year contract — the first big, splashy move made by Posey since he became President of Baseball Operations in late September. “There’s no words to describe my feeling right now to be here in this beautiful city, I’m just so happy to be here,” Adames said. "... This is a dream come true for me. I’m thrilled to be here, I’m so excited. Hopefully we can win a few championships like you did, and that’s one of the main reasons I’m here.” PUERTO PLATA, Dominican Republic — The trial against Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Wander Franco, who has been charged with sexually abusing a minor, sexual and commercial exploitation against a minor, and human trafficking, was postponed on Thursday and scheduled to resume June 2, 2025. Dominican judge Yacaira Veras postponed the hearing at the request of prosecutors because of the absence of several key witnesses in the case. Only three out of 31 witnesses arrived to the hearing on Thursday. Franco’s lawyers asked the court to reconsider the postponement, arguing Franco must report to spring training in mid-February. “There is no case against Wander, for as many witnesses as they present, there is no case now,” Franco's lead lawyer Teodosio Jáquez told The Associated Press after the hearing. The judge replied that Franco is obligated to continue with the trial schedule and his conditional release from detainment. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Nelistotug is under clinical development by and currently in Phase II for Recurrent Head And Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. According to GlobalData, Phase II drugs for Recurrent Head And Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma have a 33% phase transition success rate (PTSR) indication benchmark for progressing into Phase III. GlobalData tracks drug-specific phase transition and likelihood of approval scores, in addition to indication benchmarks based off 18 years of historical drug development data. Attributes of the drug, company and its clinical trials play a fundamental role in drug-specific PTSR and likelihood of approval. Nelistotug overview GSK overview is a healthcare company that focuses on developing, manufacturing and commercializing general medicines, specialty medicines and vaccines. It offers drugs for the treatment of diseases such as HIV, respiratory, cancer, immuno-inflammation, anti-viral, central nervous system (CNS), metabolic, cardiovascular, and urogenital, anti-bacterial, dermatology and rare diseases. The company also offers over-the-counter (OTC) products for pain relief, oral health, nutrition, skin health and gastrointestinal diseases. ’s vaccine portfolio covers various diseases including hepatitis, diphtheria, tetanus, whooping cough, rotavirus and HPV infections, measles and bacterial meningitis, among others. The company sells its products through wholesalers, pharmacies, hospitals, physicians and other groups worldwide. is headquartered in London, England, the UK. For a complete picture of Nelistotug’s drug-specific PTSR and LoA scores, This content was updated on 12 April 2024 From Blending expert knowledge with cutting-edge technology, GlobalData’s unrivalled proprietary data will enable you to decode what’s happening in your market. You can make better informed decisions and gain a future-proof advantage over your competitors. , the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article. GlobalData’s Likelihood of Approval analytics tool dynamically assesses and predicts how likely a drug will move to the next stage in clinical development (PTSR), as well as how likely the drug will be approved (LoA). This is based on a combination of machine learning and a proprietary algorithm to process data points from various databases found on GlobalData’s .CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), producer of the Chicago Auto Show, released the dates and plans for the 2025 event, which will be held Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place. Showgoers can once again expect an engaging show with the latest new vehicles, outdoor ride-and-drives and indoor test tracks, including the return of Chicago Drives Electric, a one-stop-shop for electric vehicle ride-alongs and education, organizers said. "The Chicago Auto Show is a cherished winter tradition, and we can't wait to once again welcome attendees to experience the thrill of the latest technology and safety features of today's cars, trucks, and SUVs," Chicago Auto Show Chairwoman Kelly Webb Roberts said. "The vehicle offerings on the show floor are more diverse now than ever before. So, whether you're looking for a sporty sedan, full-sized family car, electrified vehicle, off-roading wheels, luxury ride or something in between, you will certainly find it at the show." The Chicago Drives Electric indoor EV test track will return, expanding from one track to two, providing attendees the opportunity to get inside the latest EVs to experience the power of electrified vehicles. In addition to the ride-alongs, consumers may visit the EV education hub to learn more about pressing EV topics including at-home charging, range anxiety, maintenance, and associated EV ownership costs. During the 2024 Chicago Auto Show , 71% of attendees who test drove or rode along in an EV at the show cited that their experience improved their opinion of owning an EV, and 53% of attendees who experienced an EV at the show said they were now more likely to purchase an electric vehicle, organizers said. "Based on the research, we learned that once people experience an EV, they feel more comfortable with the idea of owning one," Chicago Auto Show General Manager Jennifer Morand said. "We look forward to bringing this popular, educational and hands-on experience back indoors to the Chicago Auto Show. In 2025, attendees will encounter more brands and models added to two EV test tracks, allowing consumers to cross-shop and experience a wide range of EVs all in one location." The 2025 show is bringing back special themed days and events including: -Toyota Miles Per Hour Run on Sunday, Feb. 9: Runners can experience the auto show via a 2.4-mile loop inside McCormick Place before the event doors open to the public. - First Responders & Military Appreciation Day on Tuesday, Feb. 11: Present your badge or military ID for free entry. Guests that accompany first responders or military personnel on this day receive a voucher for $5 off adult admission. - Automotive Career Day on Wednesday, Feb. 12: Students of all ages are encouraged to come learn more about various careers within the automotive industry through a series of presentations and activations; special ticket price offered for advanced sales at $10 per ticket. - Chicago Auto Show Food Drive held Wednesday-Friday, Feb. 12-14: Bring three cans of food for A Safe Haven's Food Bank and get a $5 voucher off regular admission. - Chicago Friday Night Flights on Friday, Feb. 14: A one-of-a-kind indoor craft beer sampling event, along with full access to the show. New and exciting experiences at the 2025 show will include: - Overlanding Chicago is a space dedicated to overlanding and outdoor lifestyle. This new area on the show floor is expected to draw a unique crowd of show goers looking to explore a life outside the urban jungle with their vehicles. With a focus on the overlanding lifestyle, the space will feature manufacturer displays of specialty vehicles, upfitting vendors, off-road accessories, and much more. Plus, a dedicated space focusing on demonstrations, education, and specific product features. - Family Fun Zone is an exciting, dedicated area on the show floor designed for families and aimed at entertaining children aged 2-16. This safe and fun environment allows kids to enjoy themselves while being immersed in the auto show experience. - Exclusive VIP Tours of the show floor led in-person by the best and brightest in the automotive industry. Four specialty tours will be offered, allowing guests to find a tour that matches their preferred interests. The 60-minute tours will be focused on family vehicles, SUV and outdoor vehicles, electrified vehicles and auto enthusiasts. VIP tours will only be offered on Friday, Feb. 7, and will include an extended opportunity for an exclusive look at the show floor before it opens to the public. A limited number of tickets for the tours, each offered twice, will be available for pre-purchase at ChicagoAutoShow.com in the coming weeks. "The Chicago Auto Show is always designed with consumers at the heart of everything we do," Morand said. "From hands-on experiences to showcasing the most innovative advancements in the industry, the show is all about connecting people with the technology and vehicles that are shaping the future. This year's show is a testament to our commitment to delivering a dynamic and engaging experience for every attendee." The show's 2025 Media Preview will be held Feb. 6-7 and its black-tie charity gala, First Look for Charity, will be held the evening of Friday, Feb. 7 at McCormick Place. Since its inception, First Look for Charity has raised more than $63 million for local charities, positively impacting individuals in the Chicagoland community. Attendees can once again expect an evening of gourmet food, beverages, musical entertainment and even the chance to win a brand-new 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV or a 2025 Hyundai Palisade, all while supporting those in need. Tickets and more information for First Look for Charity can be found at FirstLookforCharity.org . Tickets to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show are currently on sale at ChicagoAutoShow.com . The 2025 show runs Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place and opens to the public daily at 10 a.m. Adult ticket prices are $17; seniors ages 62 and older are $12; children ages 4-12 are $12; kids 3 and younger are free. Show hours vary by day so please check the site for details. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com . First staged in 1901, the Chicago Auto Show is the nation's longest running auto exposition in North America. The show is produced by the Chicagoland's new-car dealer association, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, which has staged the show since 1935. The 2025 public show is Feb. 8-17 at McCormick Place. For more information and the latest updates, visit ChicagoAutoShow.com . Founded in 1904 and located in Oakbrook Terrace, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is comprised of more than 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information, please visit www.CATA.info . The video in the player above features the 2024 auto show.HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 22 December 2024 - On December 20th, Fushi Technology is set to launch its AI Agent industry vertical applications in the Southeast Asia region to help businesses improve efficiency and optimize operations. Fushi Technology is an investment of Hong Kong-listed company Yeahka Limited (9923.HK). In 2024, Fushi already expanded its client base in Southeast Asia, including over 200 global and regional brands such as Starbucks, MUJI, Pizza Hut, New Balance, Levi's, KOI, and Mr. Coconut, covering markets in Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia, with over 20,000 stores in total. Fushi's achievements can be attributed to two key drivers: The first driver is the synergies created by its partnership with Yeahka. Leveraging the payment technology, service expertise, and applied artificial intelligence (AI) technologies that are already validated in China, Fushi provides more attractive business empowerment solutions for merchants across the Asia-Pacific region. The second key driver is that Fushi itself places great importance on the localization of its SaaS product development and operations functionalities. By continually harnessing the market attributes and customer preferences in different vertical industries overseas, Fushi has enriched its in-house product portfolio and greatly improved service efficiency, enhancing the breadth and depth of its business empowerment capabilities for clients, while also increasing customer retention. The launch of Fushi's AI Agent industry vertical application is also driven by the needs of those overseas clients outside of China. Currently, Fushi's AI Agent primarily targets the food and beverage industry. Customers can use conversational natural language, either through voice or text, on the brand's official app or website to inquire about various information related to restaurants and food, as well as place orders and make payments. This will significantly enhance the customer experience and improve order conversion rates. In the future, Fushi will also collaborate with Ascentis, a leading CRM company in Singapore that Fushi recently acquired, to develop a marketing AI agent, allowing businesses to automatically plan and execute marketing campaigns and manage customer relationships through natural language. AI Agents are intelligent entities based on large language models (LLMs) that can autonomously understand, plan, make decisions, and perform complex tasks. Unlike traditional large models, AI Agents not only tell you "how to do" something, but also help you "do it." According to Deloitte, AI Agents are reshaping industries in unprecedented ways. They not only expand the application scope of generative AI but also enhance AI capabilities through multi-agent AI systems. For example, after launching the AI-driven AXON2.0 advertising marketing engine, Applovin saw an increase in advertising monetization rates, with third-quarter revenue rising by 39% year-on-year and net profit growing by 300% year-on-year. As of December 20th, Applovin's stock price has increased by over 700% this year. With AI Agents reshaping traditional industries and technologies, more industry disruptors are expected to emerge. Jared, a partner at Y Combinator and a senior investor, recently analyzed the market, predicting that vertical AI Agents could become a new market that is 10 times larger than SaaS, potentially creating technology giants with market values exceeding $300 billion each. With China's expansion into overseas markets, Fushi is poised to seize new market opportunities, thanks to its long-standing experience in serving merchants in combination with the addition of proprietary AI Agents. Hashtag: #AI http://www.fushi-tech.com The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
City schools introduce flexi-attendance for students unable to attend physical classesThe Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation has raised a record breaking $2.7 million through the Grow on Windsor Campaign – with the funds earmarked to purchase the DaVinci Xi Surgical Robot for the centre. The robot replaces a previous DaVinci robot, which has performed robotic procedures on local cancer patients for over a decade. The DaVinci robot is used to perform minimally invasive surgeries on prostate and kidney cancer patients. “The DaVinci Xi represents the type of cutting-edge medical technology that this community wants and deserves. People can stay here to get treatment with confidence knowing that they are getting the very best care close to home. This is also what we need to attract the best and brightest medical professionals. This is the way of the future,” said Dr. Sindu Kanjeekal, Chief of Oncology. The robot has been lauded as a ‘gamechanger’ for cancer care, resulting in shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, improved survival rates, and a reduction in organ trauma.
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LAS VEGAS — Players Era Festival organizers have done what so many other have tried — bet their fortunes in this city that a big payoff is coming. Such bet are usually bad ones, which is why so many massive casino-resorts have been built on Las Vegas Boulevard. But it doesn't mean the organizers are wrong. They're counting on the minimum of $1 million in guaranteed name, image and likeness money that will go to each of the eight teams competing in the neutral-site tournament that begins Tuesday will create a precedent for other such events. EverWonder Studios CEO Ian Orefice, who co-founded Players with former AND1 CEO Seth Berger, compared this event to last year's inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament that played its semifinals and final in Las Vegas by saying it "did really well to reinvigorate the fan base at the beginning of the year." "We're excited that we're able to really change the paradigm in college basketball on the economics," Orefice said. "But for us, it's about the long term. How do we use the momentum that is launching with the 2024 Players Era Festival and be the catalyst not to change one event, but to change college basketball for the future." Orefice and Berger didn't disclose financial details, but said the event will come close to breaking even this year and that revenue is in eight figures. Orefice said the bulk of the revenue will come from relationships with MGM, TNT Sports and Publicis Sport & Entertainment as well as sponsors that will be announced later. Both organizers said they are so bullish on the tournament's prospects that they already are planning ahead. Money made from this year's event, Orefice said, goes right back into the company. "We're really in this for the long haul," Orefice said. "So we're not looking at it on a one-year basis." Rick Giles is president of the Gazelle Group, which also operates several similar events, including the College Basketball Invitational. He was skeptical the financial numbers would work. Giles said in addition to more than $8 million going to the players, there were other expenses such as the guarantees to the teams. He said he didn't know if the tournament would make up the difference with ticket sales, broadcast rights and sponsorship money. The top bowl of the MGM Grand Garden Arena will be curtained off. "The math is highly challenging," Giles said. "Attendance and ticket revenues are not going to come anywhere close to covering that. They haven't announced any sponsors that I'm aware of. So it all sort of rests with their media deal with Turner and how much capital they want to commit to it to get these players paid." David Carter, a University of Southern California adjunct professor who also runs the Sports Business Group consultancy, said even if the Players isn't a financial success this year, the question is whether there will be enough interest to move forward. "If there is bandwidth for another tournament and if the TV or the streaming ratings are going to be there and people are going to want to attend and companies are going to want to sponsor, then, yeah, it's probably going to work," Carter said. "But it may take them time to gain that traction." Both founders said they initially were met with skepticism about putting together such an event, especially from teams they were interested in inviting. Houston was the first school to commit, first offering an oral pledge early in the year and then signing a contract in April. That created momentum for others to join, and including the No. 6 Cougars, half the field is ranked. "We have the relationships to operate a great event," Berger said. "We had to get coaches over those hurdles, and once they knew that we were real, schools got on board really quickly." The founders worked with the NCAA to make sure the tournament abided by that organization's rules, so players must appear at ancillary events in order to receive NIL money. Strict pay for play is not allowed, though there are incentives for performance. The champion, for example, will receive $1.5 million in NIL money. Now the pressure is on to pull off the event and not create the kind of headlines that can dog it for years to come. "I think everybody in the marketplace is watching what's going to happen (this) week and, more importantly, what happens afterwards," Giles said. "Do the players get paid on a timely basis? And if they do, that means that Turner or somebody has paid way more than the market dictates? And the question will be: Can that continue?" CREIGHTON: P oint guard Steven Ashworth likely won’t play in the No. 21 Bluejays’ game against San Diego State in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. Ashworth sprained his right ankle late in a loss to Nebraska on Friday and coach Greg McDermott said afterward he didn’t know how long he would be out. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
CENTURION: South Africa tailenders Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen hung in against relentless fast bowler Mohammad Abbas for a tense two-wicket win in the first test on Sunday to seal the Proteas' place in next year's World Test Championship final . ET Year-end Special Reads What kept India's stock market investors on toes in 2024? India's car race: How far EVs went in 2024 Investing in 2025: Six wealth management trends to watch out for Jansen (16 not out) overshadowed Abbas' brilliant figures of 6-54 with a square driven boundary against the fast bowler as South Africa reached 150-8 just after lunch on Day 4 and escaped with a close win in the opener of the two-match series. "Quite an emotional moment for me, good advert for test cricket," said South Africa captain Temba Bavuma , who made 40. "We haven't been ruthless but have found a way to ensure the result was on our side. Lot of joy and happiness on our side, a bit of a rollercoaster, glad that we were able to get the result." Abbas, making a comeback after more than three years in the test wilderness, had knocked back South Africa's tricky chase of 148 runs in a marathon 13-over spell before lunch on Day 4 as the home team limped to 99-8, losing four wickets for three runs. However, Rabada changed gears in an unbroken 51-run stand with Jansen and made an unbeaten 31 off 26 balls with five fours to seal a memorable victory and denied Pakistan its first test win in South Africa in almost 18 years. 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But since then the Proteas have beaten West Indies, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka to stay on top of the table. "It (WTC final) is a big one, not just for myself but also the team and the coach," Bavuma said. "The way we started our campaign, against India and then New Zealand with a not-so-strong team, and the way we have gone through with our performances, not many gave us a chance." India, Australia and Sri Lanka are the other teams still in contention for next June's WTC final against South Africa at Lord's. Captain Temba Bavuma (40) and Aiden Markram (37) had thwarted Abbas for an hour after South Africa resumed at a wobbly 27-3, still needing 121 for victory. Bavuma's controversial dismissal punctuated a South Africa collapse in the latter half of first session with Abbas grabbing three off his six balls in a sensational home team collapse. Bavuma, who made 40, surprisingly didn't request a television review when replays suggested that Abbas' ball had brushed the batter's pocket and didn't make contact with the inside edge of the bat but the South African skipper walked back to the dressing room. Abbas bowled an unchanged marathon spell of 13 overs, but had to wait as Markram and Bavuma saw off eight overs from the fast bowlers. Resuming at 27-3, Bavuma and Markram showed plenty of patience against Abbas' probing line and length before the fast bowler finally got the breakthrough after the first drinks break. Abbas was rewarded for his brilliant seam bowling when he beat the outside edge of Markram's bat and knocked back the off stump. Bavuma survived a couple of close chances when he successfully overturned an on-field lbw decision against him early in the day and Naseem Shah couldn't hold onto a sharp catch at fine leg as he overstepped the boundary cushion while grabbing the ball over his head. South Africa had controlled the game at 96-4 before Bavuma's dismissal saw Abbas finding the outside edges of David Bedingham (14) and Corbin Bosch's (0) bat off successive deliveries and in between Kyle Verreynne dragged Naseem Shah's delivery back onto his stumps. Abbas found the outside edge of Rabada's bat in his first over after lunch that fell just short of wicketkeeper Rizwan before both tailenders took the team home. "Extremely proud of the efforts, but going forward we need to be ruthless," Pakistan captain Shan Masood said. "We keep making the same mistakes but we have to get over the line, seize moments." The second test begins at Cape Town on Friday. (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel )Floor & Decor Sees Unusually High Options Volume (NYSE:FND)Kuwait City: Agreeing to elevate the relations to a 'Strategic Partnership', India and Kuwait on Sunday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to institutionalize bilateral cooperation in the area of defence during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic two-day visit to the key Gulf nation. Recognising that defence is an important component of the strategic partnership, both countries maintain that the MoU will provide the required framework to further strengthen bilateral defence ties, including through joint military exercises, training of defence personnel, coastal defence, maritime safety, joint development and production of defence equipment. The two sides also "unequivocally condemned" terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism and called for disrupting of terrorism financing networks and safe havens, and dismantling of terror infrastructure. "Expressing appreciation of their ongoing bilateral cooperation in the area of security, both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism operations, information and intelligence sharing, developing and exchanging experiences, best practices and technologies, capacity building and to strengthen cooperation in law enforcement, anti-money laundering, drug-trafficking and other transnational crimes," read the Joint Statement issued after the conclusion of PM Modi's visit. Discussions were also held to promote cooperation in cybersecurity, including prevention of use of cyberspace for terrorism, radicalisation and for disturbing social harmony. "The two sides expressed interest in pursuing deeper collaboration in the area of technology including emerging technologies, semiconductors and artificial intelligence. They discussed avenues to explore B2B cooperation, furthering e-Governance, and sharing best practices for facilitating industries/companies of both countries in the policies and regulation in the electronics and IT sector," the Joint Statement mentioned. The Kuwaiti side also expressed interest in cooperation with India to ensure its food-security. Both sides discussed various avenues for collaboration including investments by Kuwaiti companies in food parks in India. India welcomed Kuwait’s decision to become a member of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), marking a significant step towards collaboration in developing and deploying low-carbon growth trajectories and fostering sustainable energy solutions. New Joint Working Groups (JWGs) have been set up in areas of trade, investments, education and skill development, science and technology, security and counter-terrorism, agriculture, and culture, in addition to the existing JWGs on health, manpower and hydrocarbons. Both sides emphasised on convening the meetings of the newly-formed Joint Commission on Cooperation (JCC) and the JWGs under it at an early date to further expand bilateral cooperation across various fields. Besides the MoU on defence, the executive programme on cooperation in the field of sports for 2025-2028 and the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) for 2025-2029, were also signed. The CEP will facilitate greater cultural exchanges in art, music, dance, literature and theatre, cooperation in preservation of cultural heritage, research and development in the area of culture and organising of festivals. The executive programme, meanwhile, will strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of sports between India and Kuwait by promoting exchange of visits of sports leaders for experience sharing, participation in programmes and projects in the field of sports, exchange of expertise in sports medicine, sports management, sports media, sports science, among others. IANSCarter hits 5 3s, scores 23 to help LSU beat Mississippi Valley State 110-45