Rams defensive mastermind Wade Phillips adjusts with the times

Wade Phillips doesn’t understand why everybody is so impressed by his ability to bridge generations of people and football knowledge with equal aplomb.The Los Angeles ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SmGOj2

Shinji Kagawa leaves Dortmund for Besiktas loan

Borussia Dortmund’s Japan international Shinji Kagawa has turned down German first-division rival Hannover and instead joined Turkish side Besiktas on loan.Dortmund says Kagawa requested the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CYsmEi

Knicks deal Kristaps Porzingis to Dallas, say he requested a trade

The New York Knicks were having their doubts, wondering if Kristaps Porzingis truly wanted to be part of the franchise.On Thursday, they say he made ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RYr4U4

Anthony Davis picked as an All-Star reserve; Ben Simmons among first-timers

New Orleans has an All-Star for the sixth straight year.That is, unless he gets traded first. Pelicans standout Anthony Davis — only three days removed ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UqVsmS

Player’s union, NFL preparing “war chests” for 2021 labor talks

Two years before the labor agreement with the NFL runs out, the players’ union is gathering a war chest it hopes it doesn’t need.Union leaders, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S2x9iw

Shohei Ohtani won’t be ready for Angels’ opening day

AL Rookie of the Year Shohei Ohtani has been medically cleared to resume full-strength training on his right arm following Tommy John surgery, although he ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2BdrBal

Samurai Blue boss Hajime Moriyasu urges team to give best effort in Asian Cup final

Japan must lay everything on the line against Qatar in the Asian Cup final, head coach Hajime Moriyasu said Thursday, on the eve of the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2G1broH

Super Bowl Gospel Choir combines players’ love of gospel music, football

Retired Dallas Cowboys safety Dextor Clinkscale gets a chance each year to re-experience the camaraderie of playing in the NFL when the Super Bowl Gospel ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GbcCkF

Apprentice wrestler choked, bullied at Kotooshu-run stable

An underage apprentice sumo wrestler has been the subject of repeated physical abuse and bullying at the stable run by Bulgarian-born former ozeki Kotooshu, the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GcYbww

Rookie Yuta Watanabe displays potential while playing major minutes in NBA G League

Rookie Yuta Watanabe has exhibited veteran poise throughout his first season as a pro basketball player.With a two-way contract that splits his time between the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FYlM4J

Mavs pounce on lowly Knicks

Dirk Nowitzki has been coming to Madison Square Garden for about two decades, scoring better there than at any road arena.If this was the last ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HHXOMQ

Do or die for Samurai Blue

This week has provided ample opportunity for all of us who doubted Japan’s ability to reach the Asian Cup final to take a long, deep ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RvlrHU

Anderlecht’s Ryota Morioka to spend rest of season with Charleroi

Midfielder Ryota Morioka will transfer to Charleroi for the remainder of the season with an option to sign a three-year deal, the Belgian first-division side ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SjoK9M

Report blasts Michigan State’s handling of sex cases

A U.S. Department of Education report says Michigan State University’s failure to detect and stop sexual assaults by now-imprisoned sports doctor Larry Nassar indicates a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HHXM7G

Penguins hold off NHL-leading Lightning

Kris Letang tied Hall of Famer Paul Coffey’s franchise record for career goals by a defenseman, Matt Murray stopped 33 shots and the Pittsburgh Penguins ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SlQgTQ

World Cup ticket woes frustrate rugby fans

“There are three sides to every story, baby. There’s yours, and mine and the cold, hard truth.”While Eagles great Don Henley was singing about the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WxUffj

Nationals hire Jack McKeon, 88, as senior adviser to GM

The Nationals have hired Jack McKeon as a senior adviser to general manager Mike Rizzo.Washington on Wednesday confirmed the hiring of the 88-year-old McKeon, first ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RpFuaV

New York museum pays tribute to Jackie Robinson with centennial exhibit

As the 100th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s birth approached, Sharon Robinson is sure her father would have a lot to say about the current political ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HGhUa5

Struggling Evessa risk missing postseason

Coping with a slew of injuries and inconsistent play, the Osaka Evessa face an uphill battle to make the playoffs.It won’t be easy. The Evessa ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Bcskse

Roger Goodell offers wiggle room on NFL replays

Faced with a blitz of officiating questions and queries about the effectiveness of the Rooney Rule, Colin Kaepernick’s football unemployment, and the cancellation of a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2BdJW7a

Wife of detained refugee soccer player appeals to Thai PM

A campaign by Australia, human rights groups and sports organizations to stop Thailand from extraditing to Bahrain a detained soccer player who has refugee status ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Tm85Q8

Plane cushions found in English Channel search for missing soccer player Emiliano Sala

Investigators searching for a lost plane carrying Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala said on Wednesday an underwater search would begin after they found two ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UsPwdi

Neymar to miss around 10 weeks with foot injury

Neymar is expected to be sidelined for about 10 weeks with a right foot injury, ruling the Paris Saint-Germain striker out of the Champions League ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Rrkn7Q

Short-handed Pelicans upset Rockets

If the drama between Anthony Davis and the New Orleans Pelicans is frustrating his teammates, it didn’t show in their return to the court Tuesday ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Wps6at

Naomi Osaka not named for Japan’s Fed Cup clash against Spain

Women’s world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka was not named for Japan’s upcoming Fed Cup clash with Spain, the Japan Tennis ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FZ4PHb

Qatar routs rival UAE to set up match against Japan in Asian Cup final

Surprise semifinalist Qatar thrashed the United Arab Emirates 4-0 on Tuesday to set up a meeting against Japan in the Asian Cup final later this ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2B9X51e

Manchester City’s hopes take hit

Rafa Benitez never won the Premier League in his six years with Liverpool but he did his old team a huge favor in its bid ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TlF339

Tamawashi put on thrilling show during run to first title

Just prior to the 2018 September Tournament, while sitting in a sweltering Ryogoku Kokugikan and watching the Yokozuna Deliberation Council practice session, I grabbed a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Bcxtk8

Shoya Nakajima set to leave Portimonense

Portuguese first-division side Portimonense on Tuesday confirmed Japanese attacker Shoya Nakajima is set to be transferred, according to local media reports.Portimonense manager Antonio Folha said ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TnU9oz

Mariners finally get chance to celebrate Edgar Martinez’s election to Baseball Hall of Fame

Edgar Martinez spent last week on the East Coast, being honored among the latest electees to the Baseball Hall of Fame thousands of miles from ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2B91ZM0

Maroon 5 skips Super Bowl LIII news conference

Maroon 5 has canceled its news conference to discuss the band’s Super Bowl halftime performance, choosing to not meet with reporters as most acts have ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TkLZ0n

Organizing committee outlines ticket sales

The organizing committee for next summer’s Tokyo Olympics revealed the process for domestic ticket sales and detailed ticket prices for each sport on Wednesday.The lottery ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MEsUnf

Pitcher Kodai Senga says Hawks refuse to budge on posting

Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks pitcher Kodai Senga said Wednesday he has made no progress in persuading the Pacific League club to let him move to the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sSV3Op

Brady-Edelman bromance remains key to Patriots’ success

Teammates have called their relationship a “bromance.”Patriots quarterback Tom Brady himself openly uses the word love to describe his bond with Julian Edelman, a receiver ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2BcMcMa

Peter Magowan, longtime owner of San Francisco Giants, dies at 76

Peter Magowan, the lifelong Giants fan who formed the ownership group that kept the team in San Francisco with a sparkling waterfront ballpark, died Sunday ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FWEgTd

Andy Murray undergoes hip resurfacing surgery in attempt to extend tennis career

Former world No. 1 Andy Murray has undergone a hip resurfacing surgery in London, the 31-year-old Scot said on Tuesday.Murray has struggled to regain form ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MKmR0J

FC Tokyo expresses interest in acquiring Bayern Munich’s Arjen Robben

FC Tokyo is looking into the possible acquisition of Bayern Munich winger Arjen Robben this summer, sources said Tuesday.“I can’t say that he’s on the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2G5Mckm

Devils earn rare road win in rout of Penguins

Nothing has come easy this season for the New Jersey Devils. Except, that is, when they play the Pittsburgh Penguins.Then, the power play clicks. The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FVJYVg

Marquee meet provides valuable testing ground for Japanese fencers

They do not have ample time to develop before the Tokyo Olympics. But Japanese fencers and their coaches are in no rush.At the FIE Fencing ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DHdkEA

Former coach Katsuyuki Kiyomiya proud of Yamaha’s achievements during his tenure

Recently retired Yamaha Jubilo head coach Katsuyuki Kiyomiya said he is proud of his eight seasons at the helm of the Top League club and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2G90AIk

Warriors whip Pacers, extend winning streak to 11

Stephen Curry’s first-half shooting clinic was virtually flawless.His championship teammates pitched in, too. Curry scored 23 of his 26 points in the first half Monday ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FVGfXO

Annual media event like a Mardi Gras party

Super Bowl Media Night is the NFL’s version of a rock concert, with player interviews rather than music.It’s a Mardi Gras party, complete with the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HFfB7d

Chinese speedskating legend Yang Yang finds her calling on road to 2022 Beijing Winter Games

She was China’s first Winter Games gold medalist, a two-time Olympic champion and regarded as one of the finest short-track speedskaters of all time.Few know ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SgHPJq

Japan books spot in Asian Cup final

Striker Yuya Osako netted a second-half brace as Japan advanced to the Asian Cup final with a 3-0 win over Iran on Monday.The Werder Bremen ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DEUuhs

Samurai Blue advance to Asian Cup final as fearsome Iran self-destructs

Japan benefited from a controversial penalty as they sent favorites Iran crashing 3-0 in the Asian Cup semi-finals to move within one win of a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RjCRqR

Malaysia defiant despite being stripped of 2020 Paralympic qualifier

Malaysia’s government has remained defiant despite losing the right to host the World Para Swimming Championships after it banned Israelis from competing in the event, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2G3d2cS

League of Legends to host midseason event in Vietnam, Taiwan

“League of Legends” will host its Mid-Season Invitational in Vietnam and Taiwan, bringing one of the competitive video game’s marquee live events to Southeast Asia ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2COKPDb

Rikako Ikee honored as Japan’s swimmer of the year

The Japan Swimming Federation hosted the annual Aquatics Awards on Monday evening in Tokyo, celebrating achievements by its elite athletes in 2018.Asian Games MVP Rikako ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DD0jvQ

Fernando Alonso anchors victory in first Rolex 24 stopped by rain

Fernando Alonso deftly maneuvered through some of the most dangerous driving conditions of his career to grab another victory in a bucket-list event.Alonso drove a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Utn8b1

Yuto Totsuka wins halfpipe silver at Winter X Games

Teenager Yuto Totsuka finished second in the men’s superpipe event on Sunday at the Winter X Games in Aspen.In his X Games debut, the 17-year-old ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Rjj62M

Nathan Chen wins third straight U.S. title with ease

Nathan Chen was skating up to collect his medal — gold, of course — when he tripped on the small carpet in front of the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FSJLlV

Green Rockets head coach Peter Russell steps down

NEC Green Rockets said Monday that Peter Russell will step down from his role as head coach of the Chiba-based Japan Rugby Top League club ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SahI6X

Tamawashi vows to keep up with young challengers

Late-blooming sekiwake Tamawashi, who won his first title at the age of 34 in the just-concluded New Year Grand Sumo Tournament, said Monday he does ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FPljSc

ONE Championship’s focus on fighting helped attract Eddie Alvarez, Demetrious Johnson

Eddie Alvarez is here to fight. That’s it. “The Underground King” isn’t interested in playing a character or engaging in over-the-top WWE-style promotion.The selling point ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2G4MA2k

Kata aces Ryo Kiyuna, Kiyou Shimizu strike gold in Paris

Japan underlined its dominance of the kata discipline at the opening event of the Karate-1 Premier League season on Sunday, with Ryo Kiyuna taking the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FTy2mP

AFC rolls to third straight win over NFC in Pro Bowl

The Pro Bowl has long been considered a laughable representation of the NFL game.It reached a new level of comedy Sunday as several players swapped ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CPDRhr

Djokovic sets sights on Federer after latest title

Novak Djokovic has designs on matching Roger Federer’s record of 20 Grand Slam titles after completing a record-breaking Australian Open victory.In a breathtakingly mistake-free performance ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sRtSng

Japan’s Naomi Osaka becomes world No. 1 in women’s singles tennis rankings

Naomi Osaka became the world’s No. 1 women’s singles player on Monday in the wake of her victory in Saturday’s Australian Open final.The 21-year-old from ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Uk36iY

New Mariner Yusei Kikuchi and wife expecting child this summer

The wife of new Seattle Mariners pitcher Yusei Kikuchi is expecting to give birth to their child in the United States this summer, Rumi Kikuchi ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DBGhSh

Rei Ohara finishes second in Osaka Women’s Marathon

Rei Ohara finished runner-up behind Ethiopia’s Fatuma Sado in Sunday’s Osaka Women’s Marathon.Ohara covered the 42.195-kilometer course in the western Japan metropolis in 2 hours, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Ug09Qg

Jawad Williams, Alex Kirk power Alvark to weekend sweep of Evessa

Jawad Williams scored his team’s first basket of the game, a 3-pointer from the right corner.It was a good omen for the defending B. League ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DCLiKk

Novak Djokovic overwhelms Rafael Nadal for seventh Australian Open title

Novak Djokovic was so good, so relentless, so pretty much perfect, that Rafael Nadal never stood a chance.Djokovic reduced one of the greats of the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UjpRn1

Takeshi Inoue loses world super welterweight title against Jaime Munguia

Takeshi Inoue lost a unanimous decision against undefeated Mexican champion Jaime Munguia in his challenge for the WBO super welterweight title on Saturday.The judges scored ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DCpBde

Brian Orser “very confident” in Yuzuru Hanyu’s readiness for worlds

Figure skating coach Brian Orser said Saturday he is “very confident” two-time Olympic gold medalist Yuzuru Hanyu will be able to compete at this spring’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RRI3ro

Sumo 101: Special Prizes

The Emperor’s Cup isn’t the only prize awarded on the final day of a sumo tournament.The new champion receives an array of trophies and gifts ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RQyj0o

Australia captain optimistic about Ashes defense following dominant win over Sri Lanka

Australia’s innings and 40-run win over Sri Lanka in the first test has convinced captain Tim Paine that depth is building for a successful Ashes ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CLAUhQ

Japan-Iran semi has high stakes, little drama

In the heat of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, a certain candidate promised his supporters that they would be “tired of winning.”It’s a sentiment that ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RSrmvX

Tamawashi secures first title by beating Endo on final day

Sekiwake Tamawashi became the second-oldest wrestler in sumo’s current format to secure his maiden championship, winning the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Sunday, the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2B5CeMq

Naomi Osaka on cloud nine after Australian Open triumph

For newly crowned Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka, the reality of a second Grand Slam title and her impending move into the world No. 1 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TcmQF0

Spain’s Javier Fernandez wraps up illustrious career with seventh straight European crown

Javier Fernandez ended an illustrious figure skating career with his seventh consecutive European title after Russian rival Mikhail Kolyada floundered in the free skate on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HwuoB6

Ryoyu Kobayashi third at World Cup event in Sapporo

Japan’s Ryoyu Kobayashi finished third in the competition in Sapporo on Sunday, landing on the ski jumping World Cup podium for the first time in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Uh69s8

Sidney Crosby, Henrik Lundqvist lead Metropolitan to All-Star win

Sidney Crosby now has one more reason to have good memories of the Shark Tank.Crosby had two goals and three assists to win the All-Star ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WoXDcH

Kvitova finds positives despite heartbreak

Comeback queen Petra Kvitova said she was hurting but still felt like a winner after going down swinging against Naomi Osaka Saturday in an epic ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FPTitP

Hideki Matsuyama falls to sixth at Farmers Insurance Open; No. 1 Justin Rose leads by three shots

Hideki Matsuyama fell four places down the leaderboard after a rollercoaster 1-over 73 in the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open on Saturday, ending ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Myki1r

Reliever Junichi Tazawa signs minor-league deal with Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have signed right-hander Junichi Tazawa to a minor-league contract, according to a Chicago Tribune report on Saturday.On its website, the Chicago Tribune ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S8MywJ

Japan elated after Naomi Osaka’s second straight Grand Slam title

Japan erupted in joy after Naomi Osaka won her second straight Grand Slam title at the Australian Open on Saturday, with fans taking pride in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CRRPiC

Saints fans protest missed call with voodoo dolls, cookies

A New Orleans bakery is turning out thousands of cookies with a picture of a referee with a circle and slash mark across it in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RPAPEj

At last, Naomi Osaka has her moment in the spotlight

Over four months since her U.S. Open win catapulted her into the realms of tennis’ elite, Naomi Osaka at last got to have a true ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CMll9B

Rohit Paudel becomes youngest male cricketer to score an international fifty

Nepal batsman Rohit Paudel became the youngest male cricketer to score an international fifty on Saturday at the age of 16 years and 146 days, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2B6VQzF

Javier Fernandez ends glittering career with seventh consecutive European crown

Veteran skating star Javier Fernandez crowned a remarkable career on Saturday as he claimed a seventh consecutive European Figure Skating Championships title after winning the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RhTfYS

Niigata edges Fukuoka in overtime

The Niigata Albirex BB are tough to beat at home.Saturday’s series opener against the Rizing Zephyr Fukuoka was a reminder of that fact. Davante Gardner, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RP8E8h

Naomi Osaka captures first Australian Open title

Naomi Osaka defeated Petra Kvitova 7-6 (7-2), 5-7, 6-4 in the women’s singles final to capture her first Australian Open title on Saturday.The U.S. Open ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sW1ccR

South Korean star Son Heung-min admits to fatigue after Asian Cup flop

South Korea captain Son Heung-min said he had been running on empty after his country’s shocking Asian Cup quarterfinal loss against Qatar, blaming exhaustion and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S1nB6H

Tamawashi maintains lead heading into final day in quest for first title

Sekiwake Tamawashi maintained his lead by beating No. 5 maegashira Aoiyama with one day remaining in the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Saturday.Tamawashi picked ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WmpLwI

Sumo 101: Tickets

Sumo tickets go on sale roughly about six weeks before the start of every tournament.There are various categories and prices, as well as certain kinds ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Rcg801

Justin Rose cards 6-under 66, pulls ahead at Farmers Insurance Open

World No. 1 Justin Rose shot a six-under-par 66 to open up a three-stroke lead at the Farmers Insurance Open in San Diego on Friday.While ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UdAtnm

Rangers to retire Adrian Beltre’s No. 29

The Texas Rangers are retiring Adrian Beltre’s number. The team revealed the plan Friday night at the end of its winter awards program.Beltre, who had ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Dy5oFu

After a challenging upbringing, Toyota prop forward Yusuke Yamada seeks to inspire youth

Yusuke Yamada, a 20-year-old prop forward for the Toyota Industries Shuttles, is one of the many rugby players excited about Toyota hosting 2019 Rugby World ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UjaQSi

Djokovic, Nadal renew rivalry

If Rafael Nadal’s Australian Open semifinal win over Greek sensation Stefanos Tsitsipas was one-sided, Novak Djokovic showed he could be even more brutal in his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DAS0k8

NFL fines Rams defensive back Nickell Robey-Coleman for helmet-to-helmet hit

Los Angeles Rams defensive back Nickell Robey-Coleman will pay his fine from the NFL for a helmet-to-helmet hit on New Orleans receiver Tommylee Lewis in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WioBCt

James Harden, Rockets hold off Raptors

In a season filled with lots of injuries that have resulted in just as many ups and downs, the Houston Rockets have found help in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UjC37d

LIVEBLOG: Naomi Osaka vs Petra Kvitova: Australian Open final, as it happens

Naomi Osaka and Petra Kvitova are facing off at the women’s final of the Australian Open. | AFP-JIJI Welcome to our liveblog, following the action ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FTLiZ1

Revitalized Manchester United cruises past Arsenal

Booed throughout his return to Arsenal, Alexis Sanchez responded to the rancor with a rare goal for Manchester United and reveled in the celebrations.The forward’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Sa55Jd

Hakuho withdraws from New Year Basho on penultimate day

New Year BashoYokozuna Hakuho has withdrawn from the ongoing New Year Grand Sumo Tournament due to injuries, ending his bid for a record-extending 42nd top ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DAXDPe

Top-ranked Kento Momota cruises past Anthony Sinisuka Ginting in Indonesia Masters quarterfinals

World No. 1 Kento Momota breezed past reigning Indonesia Masters badminton champion Anthony Sinisuka Ginting 21-9, 21-10 on Friday to secure a semifinal spot.Momota, who ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WiVsag

Legendary British sports writer Hugh McIlvanney dies at 84

Hugh McIlvanney, widely regarded as one of Britain’s greatest and most authoritative sports writers, has died. He was 84.The Football Writers’ Association, of which McIlvanney ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DxruYW

Hannaryz prevail against Levanga; Brex edge Brave Thunders

Veteran big man David Simon had a game-high 21 points and four teammates also scored in double figures in the Kyoto Hannaryz’s 85-74 road victory ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UeA8ko

Novak Djokovic clobbers Lucas Pouille, sets up showdown with Rafael Nadal for Australian Open title

With every loud squeak of his court-hue blue shoes, Novak Djokovic put himself in perfect position to control a point — and step closer to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CIiZIX

Sumo 101: Sumo’s birthplace

Ryogoku is the center of the sumo world.The district on the east bank of the Sumida River is home to Ryogoku Kokugikan and several stables. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mx6XX9

LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo named NBA All-Star Game captains

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will be the team captains for the 2019 NBA All-Star Game after leading ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MA293y

BayStars slugger Yoshitomo Tsutsugo becomes advocate of pitch-count limits for youth

Yoshitomo Tsutsugo was struck by a strange thought while playing for Samurai Japan during the 2017 World Baseball Classic.There were pitch limits in effect during ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RaoHZe

Tamawashi pulls ahead

Newly promoted sekiwake Takakeisho handed yokozuna Hakuho his third straight loss on Friday at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.Hakuho, the only wrestler competing here ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sLjSMj

Longtime umpire Jim McKean, who was on the field for 10 no-hitters, dies at 73

Jim McKean, who umpired 10 no-hitters and three World Series during a big league career from 1973-01, has died. He was 73.Jamie McKean, one of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HtgIqn

Fourth-ranked Gonzaga overwhelms Santa Clara from start to finish

Josh Perkins had 18 points and eight assists, and every Gonzaga starter scored in double figures as the No. 4 Bulldogs rolled past Santa Clara ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ReUAzI

Japan drawn with two-time champion Chile for Copa America

Japan has been drawn with two-time defending champion Chile, Uruguay and Ecuador in Group C for this year’s Copa America in Brazil, the South American ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sTz5el

Triple Crown winner Justify named Horse of the Year

Justify finished unbeaten, on and off the track.The Triple Crown winner for 2018 added Horse of the Year to his resume, getting the nod over ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mwhkuy

Olympic champ Nathan Adrian targets Tokyo 2020 despite cancer diagnosis

Five-time Olympic champion swimmer Nathan Adrian said Thursday he has testicular cancer but is confident of recovery and wants to compete at the 2020 Tokyo ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RNG0EK

Tiger Woods has solid ’19 debut with 2-under 70 at Torrey Pines

Tiger Woods felt good in his first competitive round of 2019, from his tee shot right down the middle on No. 1 at Torrey Pines ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CFnofA

U.S. Figure Skating executives urge full investigation in John Coughlin case

Two U.S. Figure Skating executives urged a full investigation into abuse allegations against former skater and coach John Coughlin, who killed himself last week.Anne Cammett, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RPAGQU

Japan defeats Vietnam in Asian Cup quarterfinals after VAR assists Ritsu Doan penalty

The video assistant referee made a decisive debut in the AFC Asian Cup on Thursday, playing a role in Ritsu Doan’s penalty goal in Japan’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2T8wUil

Formula One wants a second China race

Formula One is keen on establishing a second Grand Prix in China to go with the current Shanghai race, a top figure in the sport ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2R8bkc5

Rafael Nadal displays potent form in ruthless semifinal victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas

Rafael Nadal said he has surprised himself with his outstanding level of tennis at this year’s Australian Open after crushing Stefanos Tsitsipas in the semifinal ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2UemIF0

Japan Fencing Federation staging three-day FIE World Cup meet this weekend in Tokyo

With increased popularity and a rise in the competition level of fencing in Japan in recent years, the battle to secure spots for next year’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FKQGxs

Tamawashi defeats Hakuho for first time, grabs share of tournament lead

Mongolian sekiwake Tamawashi grabbed a share of the lead with his first career win over yokozuna Hakuho on Thursday, the 12th day of the New ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S9Ag7k

Sumo 101: Koenkai

On the surface sumo generates income the same way as most other sports —through ticket sales, merchandising and sponsorships.While that’s the case for the Japan ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HumyrQ

Wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald returning to Cardinals for 16th season

That Hall of Fame slot will have to stay vacant for a while. Larry Fitzgerald isn’t ready to hang up the cleats just yet.The receiver, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RLPS1F

Tigers catcher Fumihito Haraguchi battling intestinal cancer

Hanshin Tigers backup catcher Fumihito Haraguchi has been diagnosed with intestinal cancer and will undergo surgery in the coming days, the team announced Thursday.The 26-year-old ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DvW2KE

Real Madrid, Barcelona top list of highest-earning European soccer clubs last season

Real Madrid and Barcelona were the highest-earning clubs in European soccer last season, knocking Manchester United off top spot, according to the latest Deloitte “Football ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sRWM6N

Nagoya Grampus to send forward Shumpei Fukahori on loan to Portugal’s Vitoria SC

Nagoya Grampus announced Thursday they have reached a deal to send 20-year-old forward Shumpei Fukahori on loan to Portuguese first-division side Vitoria SC.A Nagoya area ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sIjTjT

Naomi Osaka outplays Karolina Pliskova to reach Australian Open final

Naomi Osaka never made it past the fourth round at any of the first 10 Grand Slam tournaments of her career. Now, still just 21, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CGTMi1

BayStars manager Alex Ramirez becomes Japanese citizen

Alex Ramirez, who has managed the Yokohama BayStars since the 2016 season, has been granted Japanese nationality, according to a government report published Wednesday.The 44-year-old, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HsxpT5

Rockets’ James Harden scores franchise-record 61 points in victory over Knicks

Houston superstar James Harden continued his historic streak Wednesday night by scoring a career-high and franchise-record 61 points, but it was Eric Gordon who drained ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2T5S7JI

UNC Wilmington’s Kai Toews bursts onto scene as dynamic passer in freshman season

As a college freshman, Kai Toews has quickly become a player to pay attention to.The University of North Carolina Wilmington point guard is one of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FUy3WZ

Family, friends maintain hope for Sala miracle

Each time he returned from Europe on holiday to Progreso, the small town in Argentina where he lived until the age of 16, Emiliano Sala ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FL3rba

Ichiro Suzuki accepts offer to begin spring with minor league deal

Ichiro Suzuki has agreed to a minor league deal with the Seattle Mariners, paving the way for the 45-year-old to play in the Mariners’ season-opening ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S5Q1MC

Hopes fade of finding soccer star Emiliano Sala alive after plane goes down in English Channel

Rescuers said there was almost no chance of Premier League soccer player Emiliano Sala being found alive after a recording emerged of a fearful voice ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WlHUem

Armed with inner peace, Naomi Osaka hungry for more success

Having tasted her first Grand Slam success at the U.S. Open last year, Naomi Osaka says she now has a “weird” feeling of wanting more ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WfJsqj

After tough year, Gronk coming alive at right time for Patriots

Even as Rob Gronkowski turned in a vintage performance with his big grabs down the stretch in the AFC championship game, the veteran Patriots tight ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2R5WaDX

Upon further review, NPB’s replay system winning over doubters

Those who doubted the value of Nippon Professional Baseball’s video review system a year ago have officially left the building.On Tuesday, NPB announced a few ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Dv8IBn

South Korea’s Son Heung-min battles fatigue during Asian Cup

South Korea’s Son Heung-min said he’s blocking out thoughts of being tired as he slogs it out at the Asian Cup on the back of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2U8WJij

Saints fans file lawsuit over blown call in NFC title game; Louisiana governor weighs in

In the legal equivalent of a Hail Mary pass, two New Orleans Saints season ticket holders asked a judge on Tuesday to order the NFL ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mq9Mt2

Hakuho’s winning streak snapped by Mitakeumi

Komusubi Mitakeumi handed yokozuna Hakuho his first loss on Wednesday, returning from injury to pull off the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament’s biggest surprise so ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2R3Jiyl

Injured Kei Nishikori retires from quarterfinal clash against Novak Djokovic

Kei Nishikori retired from his quarterfinal against top seed Novak Djokovic on Wednesday, succumbing to an injured thigh as he trailed 6-1, 4-1.Nishikori, ranked ninth ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2WdMCKR

South Korea human rights body to investigate abuse in sports

South Korea’s human rights commission plans to interview possibly thousands of athletes about a culture of abuse in sports after a wave of female athletes ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sHUpDu

Japan fails to shift attack into gear

“Defense wins championships,” as the old saying goes.The Samurai Blue certainly needed plenty of it on Monday after maintaining less than 24 percent possession over ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MtrNXj

Sumo 101: Trading cards

With a sport as ancient as sumo, trading cards aren’t the first things that spring to mind when you think of memorabilia.A person could be ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sG8eSy

Cardiff striker Emiliano Sala feared dead after suspected plane crash

Premier League club Cardiff City’s record new signing, Emiliano Sala, is missing presumed dead after a light aircraft he was travelling in disappeared over the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mrbiv7

Son of NFL great Deion Sanders commits to South Carolina

South Carolina will have some “Prime Time” on its team next season as the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders committed to the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mr9ja2

Mariano Rivera becomes first unanimous HOF pick

Mariano Rivera has become baseball’s first unanimous Hall of Fame selection, elected Tuesday along with Roy Halladay, Edgar Martinez and Mike Mussina.Rivera received all 425 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RYdTC1

Naomi Osaka powers past injured Elina Svitolina into Australian Open semis

Fourth-seeded Naomi Osaka routed an injured Elina Svitolina to reach the Australian Open semifinals on Wednesday.The U.S. Open champion beat the Ukrainian sixth seed 6-4, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CEbvql

Ryoyu Kobayashi moved by hero’s welcome upon return to Japan

Ski jumper Ryoyu Kobayashi said he was “surprised” to be greeted by so many television cameras and reporters at Haneda airport on Tuesday as he ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sGleHV

Rafael Nadal ousts Frances Tiafoe, reaches 30th Grand Slam semifinal of illustrious career

Rafael Nadal is back to feeling healthy. Probably not a coincidence that he’s back in the Australian Open semifinals.Playing his familiar brand of court-covering, ball-bashing, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sGwYu8

JOC president Tsunekazu Takeda vows to clear his name in corruption probe

Tsunekazu Takeda, who is under investigation by French authorities, told the Japanese Olympic Committee executive board on Tuesday he will work to fight bribery allegations ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2U8Jzls

Yankees trade Sonny Gray to Reds after veteran hurler agreed to new contract

Adding Sonny Gray to a rotation already improved by the offseason acquisitions of Tanner Roark and Alex Wood has the Cincinnati Reds thinking about their ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MnJnw4

Cardiff signee Emiliano Sala aboard missing plane

The French civil aviation authority said Argentine soccer player Emiliano Sala was aboard a small passenger plane that went missing off the coast of the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2W74AyI

Sumo 101: Keshō-mawashi

One of the first orders of business for a rikishi promoted to sumo’s second-highest division (jūryō) is getting a keshō-mawashi (ceremonial apron-style belt).Large and heavy, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S3qB2m

FC Tokyo to play pair of league cup games at rugby venue

With its home stadium being prepared for the 2019 Rugby World Cup, FC Tokyo will play two league cup home games this year at Prince ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AUKDlO

Unbeaten Hakuho secures 10th victory with ease

Yokozuna Hakuho claimed his 10th straight win on Tuesday to take a two-bout lead at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament in his quest for ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HoSYnx

Warriors star Klay Thompson sinks first 10 3-point shots in rout of Lakers

Nothing could stop Klay Thompson, certainly not the Lakers’ defense.The Golden State Warriors made sure of it, too, setting screens and calling plays for the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2T7wFUT

IAAF clears 42 Russian athletes to compete under neutral banner

The IAAF said Monday it had cleared 42 Russian athletes to return to international events, albeit competing under a neutral banner and not representing Russia.Track ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RHJGaL

Stefanos Tsitsipas becomes youngest Grand Slam semifinalist since 2007

Lest anyone get the idea that Stefanos Tsitsipas’ upset of Roger Federer was a fluke, the 20-year-old from Greece followed it up by beating No. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RIGVWE

NFL mulls expanding video after botched call

The NFL will consider allowing video reviews of pass interference calls, according to multiple reports Monday, in the wake of a heartbreaking no-call in the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2REWpLs

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s header propels Japan past Saudi Arabia

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s lone strike sent Saudi Arabia crashing out of the Asian Cup as Japan beat the three-time champions 1-0 to reach the quarterfinals on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2W9p2yP

Never-say-die Nishikori into Australian Open quarters after five-set epic

Kei Nishikori recovered from two sets down to reach the Australian Open quarter-finals with an epic win over Pablo Carreno Busta 6-7 (8-10), 4-6, 7-6 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mkead0

Angels, reliever Cody Allen finalize $8.5M, one-year contract

Relief pitcher Cody Allen and the Los Angeles Angels have finalized a one-year contract for $8.5 million.The Angels announced the signing Sunday. Allen had a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2U7NA9S

Lindsey Vonn may be in too much pain to keep skiing

What was evident all weekend for Lindsey Vonn became clear to everyone else on Sunday.The American skier’s surgically repaired knees simply don’t let her apply ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DpKDfi

Hakuho stays spotless on ninth day

Mongolian yokozuna Hakuho maintained his lead after beating former ozeki Kotoshogiku on Monday, the ninth day of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.The 33-year-old Hakuho, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2U7ufpf

Sumo 101: Pre- and post-bout rituals

From once they are called to mount the dohyo, makuuchi division wrestlers have four minutes to prepare for their bout.After bowing to each other, they ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Do950C

Naomi Osaka tried donning disguises in recent visit to Japan

Naomi Osaka recently took up her big sister’s suggestion to wear a wig and sunglasses to conceal her identity as she walked around in Japan.The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AVZlsN

Matildas to announce new coach in February after shock firing

Football Federation Australia will appoint a new women’s team head coach in two weeks following the shock sacking of Alen Stajcic, the governing body’s chief ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2W79mwg

Rams, Patriots reach Super Bowl 53

A big comeback. A blown call. And, finally, a booming kick that sent the Los Angeles Rams to the Super Bowl.After rallying from an early ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2T5Khjt

Yushiro Hirano makes progress toward NHL debut

Yushiro Hirano said he has opened “just one door” in his quest to be the second Japan-born player in the NHL.The 23-year-old forward signed on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AVZg8t

Naomi Osaka reaches Australian Open quarterfinals for first time

Naomi Osaka conceded the opening set for the second straight match, but mounted a successful comeback against Latvia’s Anastasija Sevastova on Monday and reached the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2R4WdQJ

Roger Federer knocked out by Greek wunderkind Stefanos Tsitsipas

Roger Federer’s bid for a hat-trick of Australian Open titles was crushed on Sunday as Greek wunderkind Stefanos Tsitsipas rose up to floor the Swiss ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sFgjqB

Suspended pairs skating champion John Coughlin dies at 33

John Coughlin, a two-time U.S. pairs champion recently suspended from figure skating, died by suicide in Kansas City, Missouri. He was 33.U.S. Figure Skating released ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RA6zwZ

France ends 28-match unbeaten run for U.S. women

Kadidiatou Diani scored twice and France ended the U.S. national team’s 28-game unbeaten streak with a 3-1 victory Saturday in Le Havre, France.The top-ranked United ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CvZqDv

Yuta Toyokawa nets fifth goal of season in Eupen’s win over Lokeren

Forward Yuta Toyokawa scored his fifth goal of the season on Saturday, netting in Eupen’s 4-1 win over Lokeren in the Belgian first division.In Eupen’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2W48hFg

Rugby World Cup pool games for Brave Blossoms sell out

Tickets for all of host nation Japan’s Rugby World Cup 2019 pool games have sold out following the start of sales on a first-come, first-served ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AX0pwv

Sumo 101: Akeni

Sekitori (wrestlers in the top two divisions) have a lot of accouterments.There are kesho-mawashi (ceremonial aprons), kimono, sandals, cushions and items like knee braces and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2T4ZvoK

Japan must step up after shaky group stage

No more friendlies. No more minnows. No more excuses. Warmups are over for the Samurai Blue.The four-time Asian champions will begin the final march toward ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AShess

Mima Ito completes second triple crown at national championships

Mima Ito became the first table tennis player to win three titles for two consecutive years at Japan’s national championships after beating Miyu Kihara 4-1 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2T4ZuBc

Hakuho maintains edge with 26th straight victory

Yokozuna Hakuho improved to a perfect 8-0 to maintain a one-win lead as the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament reached its midpoint on Sunday.The sole ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QXNAas

Yuto Totsuka grabs halfpipe World Cup silver in Switzerland

Teenager Yuto Totsuka posted a 92.00-point run on Saturday and finished second at the men’s halfpipe World Cup in Switzerland.The 17-year-old snowboarder bookended his soaring ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HmELaK

Ash Barty reaches Australian Open quarterfinals; Frances Tiafoe sets up meeting with Rafael Nadal

It was like a party at Rod Laver Arena. A partisan crowd backed Ash Barty, booed Maria Sharapova and celebrated wildly when the first Australian ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RWdPTa

Gonzaga wins ninth straight

Rui Hachimura said it felt like Gonzaga was a bit hurried in the first half against struggling Portland before settling down for a more typical ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QYL0ks

Toyama’s Yuto Otsuka earns All-Star Game MVP honors as B. White outguns B. Black

In a high-scoring first half, Yuto Otsuka had a quiet performance, scoring just two points.The B. White starter heated up in the second half and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2W4o1Z3

Top seed Simona Halep eclipses Venus Williams, faces Serena Williams next

World No. 1 Simona Halep hit form to cruise past Venus Williams Saturday and set up a mouth-watering Australian Open last 16 clash with her ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MkpPIW

Two men sentenced for murder of Olympic medalist Denis Ten

Kazakhstan sentenced two men accused of killing celebrated Olympic figure skater Denis Ten to 18 years in a penal colony Thursday but his family was ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2REwwLV

Phil Mickelson cards 68, takes two-stroke lead into weekend at Desert Classic

Phil Mickelson birdied four of his last five holes Friday in the Desert Classic to take a two-stroke lead into the weekend in his first ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Cxj95O

Sumo 101: Championship portraits

One of the most striking features of Ryogoku Kokugikan is the ring of giant portraits hanging from the rafters.The 32 images (each 3.17 x 2.22 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CtMcHm

Flames overcome four deficits to beat Red Wings

Sam Bennett scored twice, including the game winner, in a three-point outing and James Neal had his first multi-point game for the Flames as host ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RBOzCu

Ollan Cassell thinks embattled JOC chief Tsunekazu Takeda should step aside in wake of French probe

With serious allegations of corruption and bribery linked to Japanese Olympic Committee chief Tsunekazu Takeda, a prominent member of the global sports community issued a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mi6MyL

Title race heating up

Yokozuna Hakuho continued his drive for a 42nd top-level title at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Saturday, staying undefeated to take the outright ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2W4cMjh

Shooting guard Naoto Tsuji’s return from shoulder injury a big boost for Brave Thunders

The Kawasaki Brave Thunders desperately needed this man to make a championship run — Naoto Tsuji.Tsuji returned to the court for the first time in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2R0791J

Ryohei Takahashi loses IBF super bantamweight title via 11th-round TKO

Ryohei Takahashi suffered a technical knockout in his first world title fight on Friday.The 28-year-old Takahashi was attempting to wrest the IBF super bantamweight title ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HiKbna

General ticket sales begin for Rugby World Cup

The sale of Rugby World Cup tickets on a first-come, first-served basis began Saturday, with organizers urging fans to get in quick so as not ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2S33PYx

DeMarcus Cousins nets 14 points in Warriors debut

DeMarcus Cousins couldn’t wipe the smile off his face.The usually scowling big man was back Friday night after being sidelined for nearly a year. He ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FKCKmg

Manny Pacquiao set to take on Adrien Broner in first U.S. bout since 2016

Manny Pacquiao fights Saturday night against welterweight Adrien Broner in a true crossroads bout that will determine a lot about his future in the ring.Chasing ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RXPPz1

Naomi Osaka rallies past Hsieh Su-wei, into fourth round at Australian Open

Naomi Osaka smashed her racket into the court after losing the first set. She tumbled to the court when she tripped in the second.The U.S. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RAb8r2

Hachioji ends 20-game losing streak behind Cleanthony Early’s 42-point performance

Former New York Knicks forward Cleanthony Early scored a game-high 42 points and grabbed 22 rebounds to guide the visiting Hachioji Bee Trains past the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CsZRi0

Ski jumper Sara Takanashi places second in World Cup event in Yamagata

Sara Takanashi remained winless but matched her best result of the season with a second-place finish in Friday’s ski jumping World Cup competition.The 22-year-old Takanashi, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Ryf37M

Hakuho, Onosho remain unbeaten, tied for top spot

Yokozuna Hakuho stayed undefeated to remain in a tie for the lead with rank-and-file wrestler Onosho at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Friday.The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TWJIs0

Sumo 101: A wrestler’s typical tournament day

The six annual honbasho (tournaments) are the fulcrum around which the sumo world turns.Ninety days a year sumo wrestlers participate in events whose outcome determines ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TWGO6z

Hanyu, Osaka nominated for Laureus World Sports Awards honors

STAFF REPORTTwo-time Olympic champion Yuzuru Hanyu and U.S. Open winner Naomi Osaka have been nominated for prestigious honors by the Laureus World Sports Awards, it ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ASeXxr

Belgian club Sint-Truiden signs ex-Yokohama FC youth player Kosuke Kinoshita

Belgian top flight club Sint-Truiden on Friday announced the signing of former Japan under-19 forward Kosuke Kinoshita from Swedish second-tier side Halmstads BK.The 24-year-old Kinoshita, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2U1Iz2F

WADA finishes retrieving data from Moscow lab

Experts from the World Anti-Doping Agency have finished retrieving data from the Moscow lab that could lead to sanctions against Russian athletes implicated in the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2szyZs0

Maple Leafs halt Lightning’s nine-game home winning streak

Mitchell Marner scored the tiebreaking goal in the second period as the Toronto Maple Leafs snapped Tampa Bay’s nine-game home winning streak in a 4-2 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2MiGjRZ

Roger Federer marks 100th match in Laver Arena with victory

Roger Federer has played in Rod Laver Arena a hundred times and has six Australian Open crowns in his collection of 20 Grand Slam titles.The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sy2sm1

Wizards beat Knicks on last-second goaltending call in London

Allonzo Trier goaltended on Thomas Bryant’s layup with 0.4 seconds remaining, giving the Washington Wizards a 101-100 victory over the New York Knicks at The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Cs9fCq

Zach Norwell Jr. leads Gonzaga past Loyola Marymount for 20th straight time

Known for its offense, Gonzaga has shown that it can win by playing strong defense lately.Zach Norvell Jr. scored 17 points and the No. 5 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RALGl5

Ghanian journalist Ahmed Hussein-Sualewho exposed soccer corruption shot dead

An investigative journalist in Ghana who helped expose a high-ranking official at world soccer body FIFA as corrupt was shot dead by gunmen on a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RPBswN

Phil Mickelson cards12-under 60 in 2019 debut at Desert Classic

Phil Mickelson still feels as young as ever. He still plays that way, too.Mickelson began his 27th full season as a pro Thursday by flirting ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HjRZ8d

Kakuryu pulls out of New Year Basho with ankle injury

Grand champion Kakuryu has pulled out of the ongoing New Year Grand Sumo Tournament because of pain in his right ankle, his stablemaster Izutsu said ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RBZiwE

Japan beat Uzbekistan, claims top spot in Group F at Asian Cup

Defender Tsukasa Shiotani scored his first international goal for the win as Japan fought back to beat Uzbekistan 2-1 and clinch the top spot in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SXHk4c

Tiger Woods to begin year at Torrey Pines again

Tiger Woods is starting another year at Torrey Pines, this time with higher expectations.Woods announced Wednesday that he will play in the Farmers Insurance Open ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sz0iTm

Hakuho beats Nishikigi in rematch, tied for lead

Hakuho continued his run of narrow escapes in the first week of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament, surviving two more close calls Thursday to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RwdyqP

Sumo 101: Retirement ceremonies

Now that Kisenosato has retired, one of the first orders of business for him will be arranging a retirement ceremony.Virtually all wrestlers end their career ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HpZavE

Son Heung-min sparks South Korea past China

Son Heung-min was just the player South Korea needed to really get its Asian Cup campaign going.In his first game since arriving from Tottenham, Son ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CpILBB

Rockets launch NBA-record 70 3-pointers in overtime loss to Nets

Spencer Dinwiddie didn’t seem to be nearly as wowed by his late-game scoring for the Brooklyn Nets as he was by the fact that his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RCw6pq

Jack Eichel notches game-winning goal 70 seconds in OT to carry Sabres past Flames

Jack Eichel battled through some misfortune before scoring the overtime winner for the Buffalo Sabres in a 4-3 victory over the Calgary Flames on Wednesday.Seconds ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AQJjR3

Yuta Nakayama chases dreams with move to Dutch club PEC Zwolle

Defender Yuta Nakayama said Tuesday he is “excited for a new challenge” at Dutch first-division side PEC Zwolle.At a news conference following his arrival at ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SUxOPn

Louisville to rename airport in honor of hometown legend Muhammad Ali

Muhammad Ali’s Kentucky hometown will honor the late boxer by renaming its airport for him.The Louisville Regional Airport Authority’s board voted Wednesday to change the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VWTBYG

Longtime NBC Sports announcer Bob Costas parts ways with network

Bob Costas, who stepped down as NBC’s prime-time Olympics host two years ago, has left the network’s sports division altogether.NBC Sports said Wednesday that Costas ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ARoEvW

Bull rider Mason Lowe, 25, dies after being stomped in Denver competition

A professional bull rider died after a bull stomped on his chest during a competition at the National Western Stock Show in Denver.The Professional Bull ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QU6AXe

Jets, Brex continue heavyweight battle for superiority

Talk about excellent timing.After their thrilling Emperor’s Cup final that went to overtime on Sunday afternoon at Saitama Super Arena, the title-chasing Chiba Jets Funabashi ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QRboMZ

Kei Nishikori outlast Ivo Karlovic in five-set thriller

Kei Nishikori battled through a draining five-set epic to make the Australian Open third round Thursday as Elina Svitolina and Karolina Pliskova kept their dreams ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DfPjUX

Frances Tiafoe rallies for upset victory against fifth-seeded Kevin Anderson

Frances Tiafoe rolled up his white shirt’s right sleeve, flexed his biceps and slapped the muscle five times. Then he pounded his chest and yelled, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FvfuZZ

Sumo 101: Stable locations and layout

The majority of sumo stables are concentrated in a couple of locations not far from Tokyo’s Ryogoku Kokugikan.Of the 48 currently active stables, roughly half ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TNfQhI

Despite injuries, Kisenosato embodied rikishi ideals

Kisenosato’s retirement, while both inevitable and expected, casts a pall over the ongoing tournament.The veteran yokozuna has been one of sumo’s most popular wrestlers over ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HpcW1c

Remaining yokozuna post wins on fourth day of New Year Basho

Yokozuna Hakuho survived a scare against rank-and-file opponent Hokutofuji to remain perfect at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan on Wednesday.With headlines ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RXGuaF

Warriors use NBA-record first quarter to rout Nuggets

Kevin Durant and the Golden State Warriors weren’t trying to send any sort of message or make any kind of statement against a team they ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CnF5Aj

Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame showing little respect for former NPB great Tuffy Rhodes

It’s one thing for another year to pass with Tuffy Rhodes not yet even within shouting distance of the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame. But ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RyDli3

Rugby World Cup organizers prepared for natural disasters

With the final countdown to this year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan well under way, organizers are focusing their efforts on contingency planning in the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CnAxtD

Ailing yokozuna Kisenosato retires

Injury-plagued yokozuna Kisenosato confirmed Wednesday his decision to retire from sumo, making the announcement a day after suffering his third loss of the New Year ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VRl1PH

Socceroos beat Syria to line up potential Round of 16 meeting with Japan

Australia is through to the knockout rounds at the Asian Cup, although the defending champion hasn’t made it look pretty.The Socceroos needed a stoppage-time goal ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Mf6Uz0

NTT to become title sponsor for IndyCar racing series

Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corp. said Tuesday it has signed a multiyear agreement to become the IndyCar Series title sponsor.The telecom giant made the announcement ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TRGqXe

Video of UCLA gymnast Katelyn Ohashi’s perfect 10 goes viral

An online video of UCLA senior Katelyn Ohashi’s exuberant floor routine that earned her a perfect 10.0 at an intercollegiate competition on Saturday has gone ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2DbNYyi

Yokozuna Kisenosato to retire after eighth straight defeat

Yokozuna Kisenosato has decided to retire as a sumo wrestler after suffering his third loss of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament, his stablemaster said ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RxkDaw

Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech reveals plan to bow out after 20th season

Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech is planning to retire from soccer at the end of the season, ending the career of one of the best netminders ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RqWVwo

Naomi Osaka dispatches first-round foe Magda Linette in 58 minutes at Australian Open

The only bug in the system was of the genuine flying variety when Naomi Osaka secured her first win at a major as a Grand ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VUlvEF

Novak Djokovic cruises past Mitchell Krueger in opening round at Australian Open

Novak Djokovic began his bid for a record seventh Australian Open title in easy fashion Tuesday, crushing 230th-ranked American Mitchell Krueger 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 at ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ANCujb

Rugby World Cup organizers recruit more than 13,000 volunteers

The 2019 Rugby World Cup organizing committee announced Tuesday that it has recruited approximately 13,000 volunteers for the Sept. 20-Nov. 2 tournament, 3,000 more than ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2stAO9H

Makoto Hiejima never found comfort zone with Brisbane Bullets

Several factors contributed to 2017-18 B. League MVP’s Makoto Hiejima lack of playing time and abrupt departure from the NBL club Brisbane Bullets in Australia ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SQUtvX

Teen skateboarder Aori Nishimura nabs women’s title at world tour final stage

Teenager Aori Nishimura won the women’s title Sunday in the final stage of the 2018 World Skate Street League Skateboarding Tour that featured a new ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Rtfj88

Sumo 101: Banzuke

All professional sumo wrestlers are listed on a 58×44 cm sheet of paper that is released about two weeks before the start of each tournament.For ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RSsyOQ

Kisenosato still without a win

A 7-second bout may have decided the fate of yokozuna Kisenosato, who suffered his third straight loss of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ALJnRI

Kazuyoshi Tatsunami, Hiroshi Gondo and Haruo Wakimura elected to Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame

Kazuyoshi Tatsunami began his career with a double and by the end of his 22 pro seasons had racked up more two-baggers than any NPB ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RNcb6b

Former Japan forward Seiichiro Maki announces retirement

Former Japan forward Seiichiro Maki has retired after a 16-year pro career, his J. League third-division club Roasso Kumamoto announced Tuesday.Maki, a Kumamoto native, began ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HlRjPI

Kozuka aiming to enrich skating

When a skater’s career comes to an end, they are often faced with a difficult choice about how to proceed with their life.Some want nothing ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AN77Fr

Longtime NHL defenseman Josh Gorges retires after 13 seasons

Josh Gorges is retiring after 13 years in the NHL, having twice reached the Eastern Conference finals with the Montreal Canadiens.The 34-year-old defenseman announced his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2su4m7o

Marines sign former Fighters slugger Brandon Laird

The Chiba Lotte Marines have acquired former Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters third baseman Brandon Laird, the team announced on Monday.Laird joined the Fighters in 2015 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FzvedF

In-form Gabriel Jesus provides big spark as Man City beats Wolverhampton

Gabriel Jesus kept up his scoring spree for Manchester City with two goals in a 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Premier League ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FrElxT

Ko Itakura sent to Dutch club FC Groningen on loan

Manchester City has signed defender Ko Itakura and immediately sent him on loan to Dutch team FC Groningen, it was announced on Monday.The 21-year-old spent ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FrbutJ

Devils find net five times in second period in wild victory over Blackhawks

The New Jersey Devils’ highest-scoring game of the season came on a night the Chicago Blackhawks may have played one of their worst games.Kyle Palmieri ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TNUl0f

Rockets’ James Harden rebounds from woeful shooting game, drops 57 on Grizzlies in rout

After scoring a season-high 57 points in Houston’s win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night, James Harden was asked how he was able to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D7Elk8

Nishikori survives scare in opener

Kei Nishikori survived a dramatic Australian Open first-round match Tuesday after his Polish qualifier opponent retired with cramps in the searing heat having raced to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TNUhO3

Former Yankes ace and pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre dies at 77

Mel Stottlemyre made his mark on the mound: He started Game 7 of the World Series, earned five championship rings as a pitching coach, wound ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Dc2PJj

Kisanosato’s stablemaster says embattled yokozuna will keep fighting

Despite equaling the record for the worst losing streak by a yokozuna, Kisenosato will compete on Day 3 of the current New Year Grand Sumo ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2spjeE1

Sumo 101: Sanyaku

Sanyaku is the collective noun for the three ranks below yokozuna.In reality though, ozeki is rarely included when the term is used, with the vast ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VKMWR8

Lotte acquires ex-BayStars pitcher Brandon Mann

The Chiba Lotte Marines have acquired former DeNA BayStars pitcher Brandon Mann for next season, the Pacific League club said Monday.The 34-year-old Mann, who played ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M7QHM4

Ski jumping: Kobayashi misses out on historical World Cup 7-peat

Ryoyu Kobayashi saw his World Cup winning streak end Sunday when he finished seventh in the second men’s large hill individual competition of the weekend, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D9jhKg

Kashiwa defender Yuta Nakayama set to move to Netherlands

Kashiwa Reysol defender Yuta Nakayama will transfer to Dutch first-division side PEC Zwolle, the J. League club announced Monday.The 21-year-old Nakayama has made 76 appearances ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TO6Rgh

Kisenosato’s woes continue on Day 2

Kisenosato inched closer to the professional precipice with his second straight loss at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday.The 32-year-old yokozuna, who has ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2HcvVMJ

Fernando Torres returning to Sagan Tosu

Former Spain striker Fernando Torres has renewed his contract with J. League first-division side Sagan Tosu, the club announced Sunday.Torres, who scored 38 goals in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QIphgF

Maria Sharapova begins Australian Open with 6-0, 6-0 demolition of Harriet Dart

Maria Sharapova has the second-best record among active players in first-round matches at the majors, and she gave an illustration of why with a ruthless ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TNFJOm

Saints rally past Eagles, to host Rams in NFC title game

When the New Orleans Saints finally found their rhythm, they marched one step closer to the Super Bowl.Using a dominant ball-control offense and a few ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D9C3RP

Manchester United keeps rolling with victory over Tottenham

Manchester United’s league position hasn’t changed. Everything else has under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.Surpassing the great Matt Busby in 1946, Solskjaer has now opened his United ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D8tRBm

A’s, MLB meet with Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray

Representatives of the Oakland Athletics and Major League Baseball met Sunday with Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray, a day before the Oklahoma quarterback’s deadline to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QKR9As

Patriots rout Chargers to set up rematch against Chiefs in AFC title game

Tom Brady recognizes that there are some who believe the Patriots are nearing the end of their run of unprecedented playoff success.New England took its ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QKUob9

Japan edges Oman to advance at Asian Cup

Japan booked a ticket to the knockout stage of the Asian Cup in the United Arab Emirates on Sunday with a 1-0 win over Group ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VNAvnG

Doubts continue to cloud Kisenosato’s future after another opening-day defeat

Members of the Japan Sumo Association’s Yokozuna Council expressed hope Sunday that embattled Kisenosato can turn around his fortunes, but optimism was in short supply ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2snsXun

Shinji Okazaki unsure of future with Leicester

Veteran Japan international Shinji Okazaki said Saturday he is unsure of his future with Leicester City following reports the club rejected a transfer bid from ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FuMMHR

Rui Hachimura scores 21 as Gonzaga holds off San Francisco

When it was all said and done and No. 5 Gonzaga came out with the victory, the Bulldogs were happy to have survived a tough ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D6JbOF

Few barriers exist for those wishing to join sumo ranks

How does a person go about becoming a professional sumo wrestler and what is the initial process like once you sign up?Basically it’s as simple ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TNV3Lc

Kisenosato goes down on first day

Yokozuna Kisenosato did nothing to dispel fears Sunday that his career may be over, as he looked powerless in his opening-day loss at the New ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D40pMw

Onitsuka wins second straight slopestyle World Cup

Miyabi Onitsuka claimed her second straight women’s slopestyle snowboard World Cup with a win in Kreischberg on Saturday, while Hiroaki Kunitake finished third in the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TJQmSn

Jets win Emperor’s Cup in overtime thriller

Diminutive star Yuki Togashi ended the nail-biting, seesaw game with a clutch shot.With just seconds remaining, the point guard put his Chiba Jets ahead with ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QLYHmV

Rams run through Cowboys to reach NFC title game

The high-flying Los Angeles Rams kept the ball firmly on the ground, and they ran straight past the Dallas Cowboys for a breakthrough playoff victory.C.J. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Ft8Brm

Ryoyu Kobayashi jumps to sixth straight victory on World Cup circuit

Ryoyu Kobayashi added a sixth straight ski jumping World Cup win to his resume on Saturday in Italy.The 22-year-old Kobayashi landed jumps of 135 and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TLqdCJ

Chiefs roll past Colts to reach AFC title game

The Kansas City Chiefs’ defense had heard the chorus of critics all season long, the ones who claimed their sieve-like line and shaky backfield would ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D6jb5U

Shy, maturing Naomi Osaka determined to stay focused during Australian Open

U.S. Open champion Naomi Osaka said Saturday that her approach ahead of the Australian Open is to not worry about winning it all.In a press ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FuEWy2

Sardar Azmoun brace carries Iran past Vietnam

Sardar Azmoun struck twice as Iran dispatched Vietnam 2-0 on Saturday to reach the last 16 of the Asian Cup and set a new group-stage ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RnbFwo

Skating icon Daisuke Takahashi intends to compete next season

Daisuke Takahashi, who came out of retirement to finish second in last year’s Japan national championships, said Saturday he wants to compete again next season.“I ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M8BxGg

Jets cap comeback against Alvark in final second, book spot in Emperor’s Cup final

The Chiba Jets Funabashi are returning to the Emperor’s Cup final.To get there, it took an improbable chain of events ,but Chiba now has a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M6A4R1

South Korea coach taking cautious approach with Son Heung-min at Asian Cup

South Korea’s coach warned that Tottenham Hotspur star Son Heung-min may have to be eased in gently when he arrives at the Asian Cup after ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sxaMTj

Matt Kuchar takes one-shot lead over Andrew Putnam at Sony Open

The easygoing vibe in Hawaii is a perfect fit for Matt Kuchar, who spends as much as a month at a time on the islands ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AJBVXl

Eagles announce plans to make Rakuten Seimei Park Miyagi world’s first cashless stadium

The Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles want you to leave your cash at home.The Pacific League club late last week unveiled a plan to make its ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D7dHbd

Takefusa Kubo returns to FC Tokyo after loan period ends with Marinos

FC Tokyo announced the return of 17-year-old attacker Takefusa Kubo to the J-League first-division club Saturday following the expiration of his loan period with Yokohama ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2H8SYb6

Penguins rally past Ducks

Jake Guentzel scored three times, Phil Kessel got the tiebreaking goal midway through the third period and the Pittsburgh Penguins rallied from an early three-goal ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FnRwjA

Domantas Sabonis, Victor Oladipo spark Pacers in rout of lowly Knicks

Beaten badly in Boston, the Indiana Pacers shifted their energy to finishing their road trip with a winning record.It helped that it ended in a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FnQuEe

Scoring sensation Keisei Tominaga emerges as new high school star

Sakuragaoka Gakuen High School earned its first medal in the Winter Cup boys competition late last month.The Aichi Prefecture school used a simple offensive strategy ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FuaofN

Wataru Endo aims for return to Japan lineup

Defensive midfielder Wataru Endo on Friday continued his bid to return to the Japan starting lineup after sitting out its opening Asian Cup clash in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SXjmpC

Former No. 1 pick Rick Nash retires due to health concerns

Rick Nash has decided to retire at 34 because of unresolved symptoms from a concussion he suffered in March.Agent Joe Resnick announced Nash’s retirement on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AG6Xj2

Dolphins expected to hire Brian Flores as new coach

The Miami Dolphins are turning to their AFC East nemesis for help.New England Patriots linebackers coach Brian Flores is a finalist in the Dolphins’ coaching ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D69RPF

Mookie Betts, Jacob deGrom avoid arbitration, accept one-year deals

AL MVP Mookie Betts, NL Cy Young Award winner Jacob deGrom and major league home run champion Khris Davis reached high-priced one-year deals to avoid ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TQmc03

China, S. Korea progress; Australia bounces back

China and South Korea reached the Asian Cup last 16 knockout round on Friday with wins over the Philippines and Kyrgyzstan, respectively, as defending champion ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sqvJ1O

Australia rebounds from shock defeat at Asian Cup

Defending champion Australia dominated Palestine 3-0 on Friday as it recovered from its shock opening defeat at the Asian Cup and moved within sight of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AEbG4I

Naomi Osaka’s poise key for success at Australian Open

It’s often said that getting to the upper echelon of tennis is the easy part.But staying there? That’s another story. Following her semifinal loss last ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FqHVYn

JOC chief Tsunekazu Takeda investigated in France for corruption linked to 2020 Olympics

France’s financial crimes office said Friday that International Olympic Committee member Tsunekazu Takeda is being investigated for corruption related to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.The National ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ACAAla

Premier League teams eyeing Shinji Okazaki: report

A number of English Premier League clubs have expressed interest in acquirin Shinji Okazaki in the final year of the veteran striker’s contract with Leicester ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M6JGek

Hip pain has Andy Murray ready for retirement

A tearful Andy Murray said the Australian Open could be his last tournament because of a hip injury that has hampered him for almost two ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2slv69Z

Toronto’s John Tavares, Carolina’s Justin Williams notch 300th career goals

John Tavares is earning every penny of the seven-year, $77 million contract the Toronto Maple Leafs gave him in the offseason.Not only is he living ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M3UvxU

Political vacuum risks Stockholm’s 2026 Winter Olympics bid

Sweden’s bid for the 2026 Winter Olympics could be torpedoed by the country’s lack of a government more than four months after general elections and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2siuORa

Las Vegas police seeking Cristiano Ronaldo’s DNA sample in rape probe

Cristiano Ronaldo is being asked by police to provide a DNA sample in an investigation of a Nevada woman’s allegation that he raped her in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M3UutQ

Jordan advances to Asian Cup knockout stages

Jordan became the first team to qualify for the knockout stages of the Asian Cup on Thursday. Thailand now has hope of joining it in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2smDfuF

LaMarcus Aldridge pumps in 56 in 2OT triumph over Thunder

The Spurs started hotter than ever from 3-point range Thursday night.When that wasn’t enough to put away the Oklahoma City Thunder, San Antonio got the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Fiqavb

DeMarcus Cousins to start in Warriors debut next week

Golden State center DeMarcus Cousins, targeting a Jan. 18 season debut after nearly a year sidelined by injury, will start immediately upon his return, Warriors ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FnIbHA

Tim Tebow announces engagement to 2017 Miss Universe

Tim Tebow is engaged.The Heisman Trophy winner announced his engagement on Instagram Thursday to Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, a South Africa native and the 2017 Miss Universe. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FlL7oT

White Sox land outfielder Jon Jay, continue pursuit of Manny Machado

The Chicago White Sox have agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with veteran free agent outfielder Jon Jay, the club announced Thursday.Jay, 33, is ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FpniM1

Former Lions coach Rick Forzano dies at 90

Rick Forzano, who was the coach of the Detroit Lions during the mid-1970s and hired a young Bill Belichick to work on his staff, has ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TFmJSc

Gonzaga routs Pacific for 6th straight

Fifth-ranked Gonzaga was held to its lowest point total of the season and still beat Pacific by 31 points.Josh Perkins had 14 points and six ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2D2pAPz

Jets, Hannaryz, Brex, Alvark reach Emperor’s Cup semifinals

Four B. League teams advanced to the Emperor’s Cup semifinals after posting victories on Thursday at Saitama Super Arena.The two-time defending champion Chiba Jets Funabashi, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QzsEGt

WBO flyweight champ Kosei Tanaka to make first title defense in March

Kosei Tanaka announced Thursday he will make the first defense of his WBO flyweight title on March 16 in Gifu against compatriot and former light ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VHHazP

Ex-Cardinal Chris Duncan leaves radio job to focus on cancer fight

Former St. Louis Cardinals slugger Chris Duncan is stepping down from his radio career to focus on his battle with brain cancer.The St. Louis Post-Dispatch ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QyRciY

Japan hooker Shota Horie focused on rehab following foot surgery

Japan hooker Shota Horie said Thursday he underwent surgery on his right foot in November to treat a stress fracture.Horie, who plays for the Top ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Cckhvp

New Suzuka Unlimited manager Milagros Martinez Dominguez becomes first female boss in Japan men’s soccer

Mie Prefecture-based Suzuka Unlimited unveiled Milagros Martinez Dominguez as the club’s new manager on Wednesday, becoming the first men’s team in a Japanese national league ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QASFoX

Hakuho, rivals seeking to taste success in opening tournament of new season

After one of the best years in the ring the past couple of decades, sumo heads into the final January tournament of the Heisei Era ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VEdUKp

Saori Yoshida retires with head held high

Wrestling legend Saori Yoshida is recognized as a remarkable winner for what she accomplished on the mat.Even though she claimed a silver medal at her ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CaXJv3

In-arena experience provides thrills for fans

Why do people attend sumo tournaments?To watch the bouts and see their favorite rikishi in action? Sure.Those aren’t the only reasons though, and for many ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RkHTrZ

Browns, Broncos, Jets make decisions on new coaches

A day after a trio of NFL teams filled head-coaching vacancies, three more teams reportedly did the same Wednesday, highlighted by the Browns giving quarterback ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2M6vCBS

Novak Djokovic, Simona Halep chosen as top seeds for Australian Open

Top-ranked Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep, as expected, were given the No. 1 seedings on Thursday when the Australian Open announced its singles seedings list.Defending ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RN0cWx

Filip Forsberg carries Predators past Blackhawks in overtime

Nashville’s top line is back together again, and that’s a big deal for the surging Predators.Filip Forsberg scored twice, including a timely drive in overtime, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VHreh2

Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo makes statement in victory over Rockets

Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn’t going to join in on the debate about whether he should be an early favorite for MVP after he led the Milwaukee ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QEbqrL

Mets avoid arbitration with catcher Travis d’Arnaud

The New York Mets and catcher Travis d’Arnaud has agreed to a one-year, $3,515,000 deal to avoid salary arbitration, according to published reports on Wednesday.That ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VEns82

Man City pounces third-tier Burton 9-0 in English League Cup

Gabriel Jesus scored four goals in Manchester City’s 9-0 win over third-tier Burton Albion on Wednesday in the first leg of an English League Cup ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QzjFFq

Oracle pays more than $200 million to rename Giants’ ballpark

Oracle Corp. has bought the naming rights to the San Francisco Giants’ stadium for more than $200 million, according to people familiar with the matter ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VEIvr2

Bettman promises Seattle expansion team will host NHL draft, All-Star weekend

On his first trip to Seattle since the city was granted the NHL’s 32nd franchise, commissioner Gary Bettman announced a couple more rewards for the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Qy6ch2

Lindsey Vonn’s return postponed by heavy snowfall in Austria

Lindsey Vonn’s return to World Cup racing will have to wait another week.Heavy snowfall has forced organizers to call off downhill and super-G races scheduled ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VHu8SM

Pro basketball has taken Alvark forward Milko Bjelica around the globe

Milko Bjelica grew up watching a who’s who of great players from the former Yugoslavia.The Alvark Tokyo big man mentioned former NBA standouts Vlade Divac ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RgAN81

Yuya Osako nets pair as Japan rallies past Turkmenistan

From the moment Japan and Turkmenistan stepped onto the Al Nahyan Stadium pitch wearing their respective first uniforms of blue and green, fans watching on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CbgqyQ

Yuya Osako scores twice as Japan rallies past Turkmenistan in Asian Cup opener

Yuya Osako scored a second-half brace before Ritsu Doan added a third as Japan battled from behind for a 3-2 win over Group F underdog ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2THE6lz

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney already looking forward to next national title run

Dabo Swinney won’t be celebrating for long.After leading Clemson to its second national title in three years, the coach is eager to get started on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RBOA8x

Manchester United revitalized with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at wheel

They’ve quickly created a song for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Manchester United.“Ole’s at the wheel,” the United faithful chant about their new manager. “Tell me ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2H0C8et

Olympic water polo champion Antal Bolvari dies at 86

BudapestAP Antal Bolvari, a two-time Olympic water polo champion who scored a goal in Hungary’s famous 4-0 win over the Soviet Union in the “Blood ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RehtZ7

Olympian Michael Phelps honored for mental health advocacy

Michael Phelps is picking up more hardware — this time for what he’s been doing outside the pool.The Boston-based Ruderman Family Foundation, a leading voice ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CaxzIV

Cardinals hand reins to former Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury

The Arizona Cardinals have hired former Texas Tech coach Kliff Kingsbury as their head coach, a move aimed at providing guidance for young quarterback Josh ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Riwjhd

T-Wolves beat Thunder in Saunders’ debut

Ryan Saunders went right into the fire in his first game as the Minnesota Timberwolves’ interim coach.His debut was a down-to-the wire finish with the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CeZ3gi

Hisashi Iwakuma wishes new Mariner Kikuchi well

Former Seattle Mariners and now-Yomiuri Giants right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma said Tuesday he hopes Yusei Kikuchi will make his mark on the majors when he joins ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RkDHbZ

‘Shoe wars’ target Japan’s endurance runners

As the Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Race has grown into one of Japan’s biggest sporting competitions, the event has increasingly become somewhat of a showcase ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CeYXFs

Maryland coach Brenda Frese earns 500th win

It seemed like just another easy Maryland win judging by the way the Terrapins walked through the handshake line and off the court after beating ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ReD43z

Flyers tie mark with seventh goalie of season

The Philadelphia Flyers tied an NHL record on Tuesday with Mike McKenna becoming their seventh goaltender to play this season.McKenna started against the defending Stanley ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CaxrJr

Chelsea, Spurs managers unhappy with VAR

By improving the accuracy of refereeing decisions, video review was meant to cut out moaning from coaches. The Tottenham and Chelsea managers have other ideas.Mauricio ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RetQnQ

J. League bids farewell to era-defining group of legends

There are few praises which have not already been sung for Yokohama F. Marinos defender Yuji Nakazawa and Nagoya Grampus goalkeeper Seigo Narazaki, both of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CaxncF

Shugo Imahira receives special invitation to Masters

Shugo Imahira, last year’s Japan Golf Tour leading money winner, has accepted a special invitation to play in this year’s Masters tournament, Augusta National chairman ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Tx112O

Captain Maya Yoshida urges Japan to fight Asian Cup pressure

Japan captain Maya Yoshida has called on his side to cope with pressure to perform at the Asian Cup as it looks to make up ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FhGXP1

Padraig Harrington named Europe captain for 2020 Ryder Cup

Padraig Harrington has been chosen as captain of the Europe team for the 2020 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits.The appointment of Harrington was announced by ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QvoNdB

Seigo Narazaki, longtime Grampus and Japan national team goalkeeper, retires at 42

Nagoya Grampus said Tuesday that former Japan international goalkeeper Seigo Narazaki has announced his retirement following a record 631 games in the J. League first ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Fm5php

Sapporo Olympic champion Yukio Kasaya pays tribute to Ryoyu Kobayashi

Ryoyu Kobayashi’s stunning victory at the prestigious Four Hills Tournament brought a thrill not only to the 22-year-old himself, but to 75-year-old Yukio Kasaya, Japan’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CWYBVG

Olympic wrestling legend Saori Yoshida announces retirement

Wrestling icon Saori Yoshida said Tuesday she will close the curtain on her decorated career.“I have decided to end my 33-year career as a competitive ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2LXp4oZ

Ex-NBA player Hedo Turkoglu calls Enes Kanter’s fears about game in Turkey a ‘smear campaign’

Former NBA player Hedo Turkoglu, now a chief adviser to Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, rebuked New York Knicks center Enes Kanter’s fears about his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QvPYoy

Pelicans star Anthony Davis overwhelms Grizzlies in rout

Anthony Davis had little to say about his latest dunk-filled scoring outburst. He even shrugged off his seldom-seen “Shammgod” crossover dribble that stunned the Grizzlies, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RzKT3i

Kei Nishikori poised to have deep run in Melbourne after ending title drought

Joy, elation, exuberance.To be sure, those emotions were apparent in Kei Nishikori in the moments after he won his first ATP title in 2 years, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2H1Amd7

WADA returning to Moscow lab in search of elusive data

The World Anti-Doping Agency is returning to the Moscow anti-doping lab this week in hopes of obtaining data it did not receive before a Dec. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VyKPA1

Predators shut out Maple Leafs behind Pekka Rinne

Toronto coach Mike Babcock said the Maple Leafs got schooled by Nashville.Pekka Rinne made 18 saves for his third shutout of the season and the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RBuKKy

CFL leading receiver D’haquille Williams says he’s signed with Buffalo Bills

Receiver D’haquille “Duke” Williams says he has signed with the Buffalo Bills a season after leading the Canadian Football League with 1,579 yards receiving.Williams on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QyUdjr

Lakers to visit China for NBA preseason games against Nets

The LeBron James-led Los Angeles Lakers are set to play NBA preseason games in China next October, facing the Brooklyn Nets in Shanghai and Shenzhen, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VCcuA0

Vince Young, Rocket Ismail headline 2019 College Football Hall of Fame class

Texas quarterback Vince Young and Notre Dame speedster Raghib Ismail have been selected for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, along with 11 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GYEzxW

Matt LaFleur in line to become next Packers coach

The Green Bay Packers are turning to fast-rising offensive whiz Matt LaFleur to aid Aaron Rodgers and end a two-year absence from the postseason.LaFleur accepted ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QtWTPe

Agent Don Yee, former NFL player Ed McCaffrey to lead Pacific Pro Football

Agent Don Yee and three-time Super Bowl champion Ed McCaffrey will head Pacific Pro Football, which will provide an alternative path to the NFL that ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VA46B0

Clemson routs Alabama for CFP title

Dabo Swinney kissed the championship trophy and proclaimed this Clemson team the greatest of all time.He’s got a case. With stunning ease — and a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2C7VHM6

Marinos star Yuji Nakazawa to retire

Yokohama F. Marinos defender Yuji Nakazawa, who played in two World Cups for Japan, has decided to retire, the J. League first division side announced ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TAzjSJ

Former Japan international soccer defender Yuji Nakazawa, 40, to retire

Durable Yokohama F Marinos defender Yuji Nakazawa, who played in two World Cups for Japan, has decided to retire, an official source said Monday.Last Aug. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CWYGbV

South Africa wins second test, seals series against Pakistan

Armed with a four-man fast-bowling attack that has a strong claim to be the best in the world, South Africa won the second test and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AvlY6X

Carp take Giants outfielder Hisayoshi Chono as free agent compensation

The Yomiuri Giants announced Monday they will send veteran outfielder Hisayoshi Chono to the Hiroshima Carp as part of the compensation package for the Tokyo-based ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2SLdgcc

Lotte signs former major league pitcher Josh Ravin

The Chiba Lotte Marines have acquired former major league pitcher Josh Ravin for next season, the Pacific League club said Monday.The 30-year-old Ravin, who played ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VAlyoX

Vissel star Andres Iniesta slammed for posting photo with people in blackface

Former Spain and Barcelona star Andres Iniesta has been criticized on social media for posting a photo showing him with a group of people, including ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2LTjmVa

Kikuchi’s move shows revised posting system not great for NPB clubs

Why would an NPB team post its best players now?If the going rate for someone like Yusei Kikuchi, one of the best pitchers in Japan, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ABo2KR

Timberwolves fire head coach Tom Thibodeau after win

The Minnesota Timberwolves had just posted their fourth-largest margin of victory of the season, and Tom Thibodeau looked and sounded satisfied Sunday as the demanding ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TxFwP8

Toulouse signee Gen Shoji confident he can cut it in France

Defender Gen Shoji said Sunday he is confident he can adjust to playing in the French top division and vowed to make a positive impact ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CUBRpi

Kisenosato breaks even in practice with fight for career looming at New Year Basho

Yokozuna Kisenosato broke even over six practice bouts on Monday as he prepares for the fight of his life at the upcoming New Year Grand ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Rgh2NZ

Wayne Rooney charged with public intoxication

Soccer star Wayne Rooney was arrested last month on a public intoxication charge and taken to jail to sober up after he triggered a door ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2AydoEx

Nick Foles works magic again as Eagles upset Bears

The Philadelphia Eagles needed help to get into the playoffs, and Chicago provided it.Look how the defending Super Bowl champions repaid the Bears. Nick Foles ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CUmddm

Chargers hold off Ravens late in wild-card victory

The Los Angeles Chargers kept Lamar Jackson grounded, and by the time the rookie got the passing game going it was too late for the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TAyh9t

Ryoyu Kobayashi becomes first Japanese to complete Four Hills grand slam

Ryoyu Kobayashi made history on Sunday as he completed a grand slam at the prestigious Four Hills tournament to become the first Japanese in two ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CUVsWB

Clutch shooting gets Brex past Alvark in series split

B. League champions in the first two seasons of the upstart circuit’s existence, the Tochigi Brex and Alvark Tokyo, have a fierce rivalry and display ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RzulID

Kei Nishikori captures first championship in nearly three years at Brisbane International

Kei Nishikori dug himself out of an early hole on Sunday to defeat Daniil Medvedev 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 in the men’s final of the Brisbane ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Vzbb4z

Yusei Kikuchi returns, eager to get back in training mode

Newly-minted Seattle Mariners left-hander Yusei Kikuchi returned to Japan on Sunday after completing his move to the major leagues this past week, expressing excitement as ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QqTf8K

Baseball star Shohei Ohtani encourages ailing boy Shohei, his parents

Los Angeles Angels player Shohei Ohtani on Saturday encouraged an ailing one-year-old boy, who shares the same given name, as well as his parents at ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Az5D19

Finland beats United States to win world junior hockey title

Kaapo Kakko beat goalie Cayden Primeau on a backhander off a rebound with 1:26 left to give Finland its fifth world junior hockey title, 3-2 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Cem6YX

Fear of assassination spurs Enes Knicks’ Kanter to skip England trip

The New York Knicks’ Turkish center Enes Kanter said he won’t make the NBA team’s trip to Britain this month for fear he might be ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2RaSntT

Jockey Victor Espinoza returns to exercising horses after injury

Hall of Fame jockey Victor Espinoza has returned to exercising horses at Santa Anita for the first time since being seriously injured in a training ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FbWy1r

Harden’s streak comes to end as Rockets fall to Trail Blazers

Portland’s Evan Turner knew what he was up against with James Harden.Harden had scored 40-plus points in his previous five games and was coming off ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2sdnBSq

South Africa on brink of winning series against Pakistan

South Africa’s fast bowlers took their team to the brink of another series win at home as Pakistan was bowled out for 294 right at ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Fa1bde

United eases past Reading in F.A. Cup

Alexis Sanchez was resting up in the Manchester United dugout moments after getting substituted when he got a tap on the arm.It was Ole Gunnar ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FaoeUC

Dak Prescott helps Cowboys push past Seahawks in wild-card game

Dak Prescott saw an opening up the middle, then three defenders between him and the first down.The Dallas quarterback found a way to get there, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2FdclOq

Andrew Luck throws two TD passes as Colts roll over Texans in wild-card game

A year ago at this time Andrew Luck was at home struggling with an injured shoulder that cost him the entire season.On Saturday he wrote ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GXot80

Surging Mikaela Shiffrin matches personal best with seventh straight slalom victory

In the rhythmic style of a dancer, Mikaela Shiffrin approached yet another record on Saturday.The American skier dominated the first women’s World Cup slalom of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Rx5Zz1

Host UAE, Bahrain play to draw in Asian Cup opener

Asian Cup host United Arab Emirates needed a late penalty from a handball to salvage a 1-1 draw with Bahrain on Saturday in the opening ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GXorNq

Legendary midfielder Dragoslav Sekularac, Red Star ‘King of dribble,’ dies at 81

Dragoslav Sekularac, an attacking midfielder known to Red Star Belgrade soccer fans as the “King of dribble,” has died. He was 81.Red Star said on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CQgzsO

Grouses maintain composure in pivotal fourth quarter, defeat Sunrockers

The Toyama Grouses can’t play every game at home.There’s, of course, the simple matter of their schedule, which won’t let that happen. But coach Don ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Tv27Mh

Takashi Inui, Tsukasa Shiotani named as injury replacements for Japan’s Asian Cup squad

Shoya Nakajima and Hidemasa Morita have pulled out of Japan’s Asian Cup squad with leg injuries and are being replaced by Takashi Inui and Tsukasa ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2R8vJT4

Toulouse signs defender Gen Shoji

French Lige 1 club Toulouse said Friday it has signed Japan international Gen Shoji for an undisclosed sum until June 2022.The central defender who helped ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QnV1Y7

Penguins blank Jets, reel off eighth straight victory

The puck fluttered into the air and Matt Cullen turned away so he wouldn’t get smacked in the face.Too bad. The Pittsburgh Penguins forward missed ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VuHth8

Potent Bucks bludgeon Hawks

The last thing the Milwaukee Bucks wanted on Friday was a grind-it-out game, with Eastern Conference rival Toronto coming to town the next night to ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QoQFzP

White Sox make big play for top free agent Manny Machado

The pursuit of free agent infielder Manny Machado by the Chicago White Sox appears to be heating up.The White Sox have plenty of payroll flexibility ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VxX2F8

Ski jumper Ryoyu Kobayashi extends winning streak to four on World Cup circuit

Ryoyu Kobayashi won his fourth World Cup title in a row at this year’s edition of the Four Hills Tournament on Friday, becoming the first-Japanese ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F9vPn5

George Welsh, an ACC coaching titan, dies at 85

George Welsh, who coached football at Virginia for 19 years and retired as the Atlantic Coast Conference’s career victories leader, has died at age 85.The ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Ts0GhJ

Kei Nishikori rolls into Brisbane final

Kei Nishikori was in superb form as he demolished Jeremy Chardy 6-2, 6-2 in the semifinals of the Brisbane International on Saturday.The 29-year-old gave his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2s9scF8

Michael Schumacher turns 50 as condition remains secret

Against the backdrop of celebrations marking Michael Schumacher’s 50th birthday on Thursday, the medical condition of Formula One’s most successful driver remains just as fiercely ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TvSRrA

Former Wallabies captain John Thornett dies at 83

John Thornett, one of the most versatile forwards ever to play for Australia and a member of the World Rugby Hall of Fame, has died. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CSqtKz

Chiefs star QB Patrick Mahomes heads NFL All-Pro Team

Patrick Mahomes and three other Kansas City Chiefs player made The Associated Press 2018 NFL All-Pro Team on Friday. They were joined by the first ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GTqm5l

SeaHorses hold off Levanga down the stretch

Mikawa’s Takanobu Nishikawa scored a season-best 18 points on 7-for-10 shooting on Friday night.The SeaHorses also dominated on the boards in an 84-77 victory over ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F8laZH

Manchester City deals Liverpool first defeat of Premier League campaign

Liverpool can’t now win the Premier League unbeaten. Manchester City has renewed hope it won’t be surrendering the trophy at all.A title defense faltering a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2COe36i

Kei Nishikori back to best in win over Grigor Dimitrov

Kei Nishikori showed he was back to his best form as he downed Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov 7-5, 7-5 to reach the semifinals of the Brisbane ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2COckhk

Islanders rookie Devon Toews scores first career goal in OT

Devon Toews picked a great time to get his first NHL goal and keep the New York Islanders’ winning streak going.Toews knocked in the rebound ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QlDEXZ

WADA hires law firm to investigate bullying allegations

The World Anti-Doping Agency announced on Thursday that it has hired a law firm to look into athlete committee chair Beckie Scott’s claims of being ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VmQkS2

Phillies announce two-year contract for veteran reliever David Robertson

The Philadelphia Phillis have agreed to a two-year contract with reliever David Robertson.Terms of the deal, which also includes a club option for the 2021 ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Tpskfl

Broncos conduct interview with Rams quarterbacks coach Zac Taylor

Broncos general manager John Elway continued his latest coaching search Thursday by interviewing Zac Taylor, the Los Angeles Rams’ 35-year-old quarterbacks coach who’s long on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VnBg6R

Grizzlies land Justin Holiday in trade with Bulls: source

A person familiar with the situation says the struggling Memphis Grizzlies have acquired guard Justin Holiday from the Chicago Bulls for guards MarShon Brooks and ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QjIMvz

Pro Football Hall of Fame announces 15 modern-era finalists for class of 2019

First-time eligibles Tony Gonzalez, Ed Reed and Champ Bailey are among 15 modern-era finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s class of 2019, it ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Vwig5U

Top-ranked UConn’s 126-game win streak ends

Longtime coach Geno Auriemma knew that the top-ranked University of Connecticut women’s basketball team couldn’t keep winning every regular-season game it played, even though the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QmFl7q

DeMar DeRozan outshines Kawhi Leonard in Alamo return

The Spurs’ suffocating defense, scoring runs and fans’ unrelenting contempt for the opposing team’s star player have often overwhelmed the opposition.Kawhi Leonard has seen it ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VuOoXD

Former Trail Blazers owner Larry Weinberg dies at 92

Larry Weinberg, one of the founders and original owners of the Portland Trail Blazers, has died. He was 92.His death was announced Wednesday by the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Qmx0k0

Mariners landed Yusei Kikuchi with a unique approach

Yusei Kikuchi smiled wide for the cameras, pointing to the back of his No. 18 jersey — a celebrated number for Japanese pitchers. In the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Vv9FRk

F1 legend Michael Schumacher’s family requests privacy before his 50th birthday

Michael Schumacher’s family has asked for understanding as it continues to keep details of his health private ahead of the seven-time Formula One champion’s 50th ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Tq4WhE

Fujitsu overcomes slow start, routs Kwansei Gakuin University in Rice Bowl

The X League champion was simply too much for the collegiate side — again.Trashaun Nixson rushed for 206 yards and two touchdowns and earned game ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VrS6Bt

Jerry Magee, a longtime Chargers and NFL writer, dies at 90

Jerry Magee, who was honored at the Pro Football Hall of Fame with the Dick McCann Memorial Award by the Professional Football Writers of America ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GTYChj

Capitals star Alex Ovechkin opts to skip NHL All-Star Game

Alex Ovechkin will skip the NHL’s All-Star Weekend in San Jose to get some extra rest and serve an automatic one-game suspension.The Washington Capitals announced ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F5EwxZ

Broncos begin coaching search with Chuck Pagano

Denver Broncos president John Elway’s search for his fourth coach in six seasons began with former Colts head coach Chuck Pagano, a native of Boulder, ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F5ItTU

Down Syndrome competitor Lucas Barron to make Dakar Rally history

Lucas Barron will make history on Sunday when he lines up on the Dakar Rally starting line in Peru, becoming the first person with Down ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2Trf226

Keisuke Honda sidelined with right hamstring strain

Keisuke Honda will be out of the Melbourne Victory lineup for a month after scans revealed he has a strained right hamstring.Victory on Thursday said ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F7L2V4

Manchester United continues surge under new manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer

With Manchester United still scoreless after an hour at Newcastle, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was facing the first real challenge of his interim tenure at England’s ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CNJFJD

Markus Golder’s miracle half-court shot lifts Valparaiso over Illinois State

Markus Golder put up a leaping, one-handed shot from half court , the ball snapping through the net at the buzzer as Valparaiso completed a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F5IlUq

Twins, veteran slugger Nelson Cruz finalize one-year deal with option for 2020

The Twins and veteran slugger Nelson Cruz have agreed to a one-year contract with an option for the 2020 season, giving Minnesota a boost at ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F5EuGn

Kei Nishikori starts 2019 with win

Kei Nishikori kicked off his 2019 campaign on a winning note Wednesday, beating American Denis Kudla 7-5, 6-2 at the Brisbane International.Nishikori, the world No. ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TpIEMZ

Tokai University wins Tokyo-Hakone ekiden

Tokai University came from behind to win the Tokyo-Hakone ekiden for the first time on Thursday.Tokai University, starting 1 minute, 14 seconds behind Wednesday’s first-day ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CN0156

Nets fend off Pelicans despite Anthony Davis’ monster game

The Nets piled on the points in the first half like never before in Brooklyn, and it turned out they needed almost all of them.Anthony ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TsH90P

Jets flying high as second half of season gets started

Just over half of the season remains, but it appears to be a six-team title race.Those six all have at least five more wins than ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CNF9Lb

Matt Murray helps Penguins beat Rangers for seventh straight victory

Matt Murray stopped 28 shots to keep up his strong play since returning from an injury, and the Pittsburgh Penguins beat the New York Rangers ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TpEgxv

Yusei Kikuchi joins Mariners on four-year deal

Pitcher Yusei Kikuchi has finalized four-year contract with the Seattle Mariners that guarantees $56 million and incudes club options that would be make it worth ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F4UEzE

Browns interview Gregg Williams as coaching search begins

Gregg Williams showed the Browns what he could do as their coach for a half-season.On Tuesday, he shared his plans for a full one — ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F719Cj

Manchester City looks to halt Liverpool’s march to Premier League title

When Manchester City and Liverpool last met in the Premier League, a fixture usually bulging with goals failed to live up to its billing as ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2CM74Lh

Young star Christian Pulisic joining Chelsea

Christian Pulisic became the most expensive American soccer player in history after completing a transfer to Premier League club Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday.Chelsea ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2TlyxJe

Rafael Nadal withdraws from Brisbane International because of thigh strain

Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Brisbane International on the eve of his first scheduled competitive match of the season because of a strained left ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2QiAc02

Ryoyu Kobayashi grabs third straight World Cup victory

Ryoyu Kobayashi claimed his third straight, and sixth overall, World Cup title Tuesday after sweeping the German legs of the 67th edition of the Four ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2BStp8h

Toyo in lead after opening leg of Hakone ekiden

Toyo University took the lead in the Tokyo-Hakone collegiate ekiden road relay on Wednesday after winning the race’s first leg for the second year in ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2s6jaca

Yusei Kikuchi may follow Shohei Ohtani’s example in the MLB

Although Yusei Kikuchi is arriving in the major leagues with less fanfare than Shohei Ohtani did a year ago, the lefty could — like Ohtani ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2LQJf8d

Nasukawa, Rizin reflect after Mayweather bout

Was it a one-night spectacle? Or was it a freak show?The exhibition match between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and young Japanese kickboxer Tenshin Nasukawa ended up ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2s6RS5q

Meyer leaves on top as Ohio State beats Washington in Rose Bowl

Urban Meyer says he decided to end his remarkable coaching career at Ohio State partly because of the stress inherent in this high-intensity job.After his ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2EZQGIK

Scandals allowing sumo to ID, rid sport of bad elements

It’s that time once again to make predictions, and state hopes and wishes for the year ahead in sumo.A common refrain over the past decade ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F2oXrp

Veteran F. Marinos midfielder Nakamachi to join Zambian club

Yokohama F. Marinos midfielder Kosuke Nakamachi announced on Wednesday his intent to continue his career in Zambia after turning down a two-year contract extension with ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2VpoEff

Raptors star Kawhi Leonard goes for career-high 45 in victory over Jazz

Kawhi Leonard was so good Tuesday night, Raptors coach Nick Nurse just wanted to enjoy the show.Leonard scored a career-high 45 points, Pascal Siakam had ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2LITriQ

Kei Nishikori, Grigor Dimitrov win in Brisbane to set up rematch of 2017 final

Kei Nishikori and Grigor Dimitrov had straight-sets wins Wednesday to reach the quarterfinals at the Brisbane International, where they’ll meet in a rematch of the ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2s3WOI0

Northwestern defense shocks 20th-ranked Utah in Holiday Bowl

A cold, hard rain in normally warm, dry San Diego made the Northwestern Wildcats feel right at home, especially as they enjoyed a downpour of ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2ToyAUJ

More than 1 million tickets sold for Rugby World Cup

Over half of the total tickets for this year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan have been sold, a source said Monday.Over 1 million of a ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2F15K8J

Andy Murray advances in Brisbane International in latest comeback from injury

Andy Murray doesn’t know how long his latest comeback can last, so he’s planning on making the most of it.The 31-year-old Murray returned to competitive ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GPrrva

Spurs score 46 points in third quarter to race past Celtics

San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich had to use some colorful language to explain to the Spurs at halftime that their lack of aggression was troubling ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2EYrMco

Brendan Lemieux leads Jets past Oilers

In one game, Brendan Lemieux doubled his NHL goal total.Lemieux scored twice to give him four career goals and the Winnipeg Jets ended 2018 on ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2As9c9r

NFL head coaching positions a slippery ride

Sean Payton despises the term “Black Monday.” And he’s one of the coaches who always survives it.Six head coaches were fired as the NFL season ...

from Sports – The Japan Times http://bit.ly/2GOZzHF