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Articles by Will Simonds
Why Valkyries not looking to make major game-plan adjustments after Game 2 loss Original
A main talking point in seemingly every basketball playoff series revolves around teams making adjustments between games. After all, that's an important luxury afforded to teams when they play the same opponent up to seven times in a row. The WNBA Finals now are tied at one game apiece after the Atlanta Dream defeated the Valkyries 79-65 in Game 2 on Monday night at Chase Center.
Valkyries can't stop Angel Reese as Dream win Game 2 to even up 2026 WNBA Finals
BOX SCORE After a dramatic come-from-behind win in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals, the Valkyries again found themselves trailing in the second half in Monday's Game 2. But this time around, Golden State never found a counterpunch on another troublesome shooting night, falling to the Atlanta Dream 79-65 at Chase Center to even the series at one win apiece. Gabby Williams, whose 26 points helped carry Golden State on Saturday, never got going on Monday night.
How Malik Mustapha has received ‘confidence boost' from 49ers DC Raheem Morris
49ers safety Malik Mustapha has had a unique first three years in the NFL. That's because he's played under three different defensive coordinators in those three seasons. For many young players, that turnover could stunt their development. But Mustapha believes he has used that to his advantage this season under DC Raheem Morris, who has helped the unit overall make significant strides in 2026.
How Malik Mustapha has received ‘confidence boost' from 49ers DC Raheem Morris
49ers safety Malik Mustapha has had a unique first three years in the NFL. That's because he's played under three different defensive coordinators in those three seasons. For many young players, that turnover could stunt their development. But Mustapha believes he has used that to his advantage this season under DC Raheem Morris, who has helped the unit overall make significant strides in 2026.
How Malik Mustapha has received ‘confidence boost' from 49ers DC Raheem Morris
Formula 1 NASCAR IndyCar MotoGP Yahoo Racing is powered by Motorsport Network, providing expert reporting, analysis, and insider access across the world’s top racing series. How Malik Mustapha has received ‘confidence boost' from 49ers DC Raheem Morris How Malik Mustapha has received 'confidence boost' from 49ers DC Raheem Morris originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area 49ers safety Malik Mustapha has had a unique first three years in the NFL.
How Valkyries' late-game composure cemented win over Dream in WNBA Finals Game 1 Original
The Valkyries trailed the Atlanta Dream for the vast majority of Saturday's Game 1 of the WNBA Finals at Chase Center -- 79 percent, to be exact. Dream forward Rhyne Howard's two free throws put her team up 64-61 with 3:12 remaining in the game, forcing Golden State into a spot where many teams easily could crumble in a championship series. But not the Valkyries, who were perfectly content with how the game was playing out until that point.
Mike Evans, Nick Bosa remain out of 49ers practice Friday before Commanders game
Once again, the injury report for Friday's 49ers practice in Santa Clara was a long one. Like Thursday, defensive end Nick Bosa (knee, calf) and wide receiver Mike Evans (ribs, Achilles) both did not participate in Friday's session. Watch NBC Bay Area News free wherever you are After he was a late add to the injury report on Thursday, defensive tackle Gracen Halton (quadriceps) also missed his second consecutive day of practice.
Mike Evans, Nick Bosa remain out of 49ers practice Friday before Commanders game Original
Once again, the injury report for Friday's 49ers practice in Santa Clara was a long one. Like Thursday, defensive end Nick Bosa (knee, calf) and wide receiver Mike Evans (ribs, Achilles) both did not participate in Friday's session. After he was a late add to the injury report on Thursday, defensive tackle Gracen Halton (quadriceps) also missed his second consecutive day of practice. Despite practicing in full on Thursday, defensive end Romello Height (hand, illness) didn't take part on Friday.
Mike Evans explains viral Trevon Diggs interaction in 49ers' win vs. Seahawks Original
The 49ers' 29-26 win over the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday at Lumen Field had no shortage of dramatic moments. And perhaps the most viral of those moments came in the second quarter, when Mike Evans appeared to execute a hilarious troll job of Seattle cornerback Trevon Diggs. Fans on social media thought the veteran receiver was pretending not to know who the two-time Pro Bowl selection Diggs was, something only a player of Evans' caliber could pull off.
Las Valkyries barren a Aces y avanzan por primera vez a las Finales de la WNBA. Enfrentarán a las Dream
En apenas su segundo año de existencia como franquicia, las Golden State Valkyries avanzan a las Finales de la WNBA. Tras ganar los Juegos 1 y 2 en casa, las Valkyries derrotaron a Las Vegas Aces 87-77 en tiempo extra el viernes en el Michelob ULTRA Arena, completando una barrida de tres partidos en las semifinales. Noticias California 24/7 en Telemundo 48.
Valkyries sweep Aces to clinch first-ever WNBA Finals berth, will face Dream
In just Year 2 of the franchise's existence, the Golden State Valkyries are headed to the WNBA Finals. After winning Games 1 and 2 at home, the Valkyries defeated the Las Vegas Aces 87-77 in overtime on Friday at Michelob ULTRA Arena to complete a three-game sweep in the semifinals.
Valkyries sweep Aces to clinch first-ever WNBA Finals berth, will face Dream Original
In just Year 2 of the franchise's existence, the Golden State Valkyries are headed to the WNBA Finals. After winning Games 1 and 2 at home, the Valkyries defeated the Las Vegas Aces 87-77 in overtime on Friday at Michelob ULTRA Arena to complete a three-game sweep in the semifinals. Kayla Thornton led the way with 18 points and nine rebounds, while Kiah Stokes tallied 11 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks in a thrilling victory to clinch their spot in the WNBA Finals.
Valkyries complete sweep of Aces to clinch franchise's first WNBA Finals berth, will face Dream
Sports 5 hours ago WNBA Finals Pairs League’s Most and Least Valuable Teams Sportico - Sara Germano • 5h The WNBA will crown a first-time champion this year, as the Atlanta Dream and the Golden State Valkyries will contest the Finals beginning Oct.
Kyle Shanahan reveals 49ers' hopeful return date for injured star Nick Bosa
49ers star edge rusher Nick Bosa hasn't played since Week 2 after suffering a calf injury in practice. Bosa initially was set to miss "a few weeks," per reports, and that vague timeline doesn't appear to have changed. Watch NBC Bay Area News free wherever you are Though he isn't expected to play on Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, Bosa was seen working out on a side field during Thursday's practice. Coach Kyle Shanahan then shared an update on Bosa's rehab progress on KNBR.
Macklin Celebrini injury leaves ‘big hole' in Sharks' shutout loss to Stars Original
The Sharks were dealt two major blows on Monday night in Dallas. And a 5-0 loss to the Stars at American Airlines Center might not have been the worse one, as captain Macklin Celebrini didn't play due to an unspecified lower-body injury. Celebrini was scratched shortly before puck drop -- after he participated in warm-ups. Ty Dellandrea replaced him in the lineup. After the game, coach Ryan Warsofsky didn't have much to say about Celebrini other than his injury still was being evaluated.
Luca Cagnoni makes history with first NHL goal in Sharks' OT win vs. Panthers Original
Thursday was a night of firsts at SAP Center. In the Sharks' first game of the 2026-27 NHL season -- and a lively home opener at that -- Luca Cagnoni scored the first NHL goal of his career in overtime to give San Jose a 4-3 win over the Florida Panthers. And in the process, he became the first player in franchise history to score his first NHL goal in overtime.
Steve Kerr reveals new Steph, Draymond rule to help limit Warriors' turnovers Original
The Warriors' battle with the turnover bug was a primary reason behind the team's struggles last season. Their 15.7 turnovers per game was the third-highest mark in the league during the 2025-26 NBA season and Golden State's second-highest mark in 12 campaigns under coach Steve Kerr. So, how will they fix that problem entering a new year when the margin for error is thinner than ever?
Kristaps Porziņģis to miss start of Warriors training camp with health issue
NBC Universal, Inc. “Dubs Talk” hosts Dalton Johnson and Monte Poole discuss who should start for the Golden State Warriors’ during the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season. When the Warriors head to Hawaii for training camp on Monday, big man Kristaps Porziņģis will not be on the flight. General manager Mike Dunleavy revealed at Golden State's media day on Monday that Porziņģis is dealing with an unspecified health issue and will be out for the start of the preseason.
Kristaps Porziņģis to miss start of Warriors training camp with health issue
When the Warriors head to Hawaii for training camp on Monday, big man Kristaps Porziņģis will not be on the flight. General manager Mike Dunleavy revealed at Golden State's media day on Monday that Porziņģis is dealing with an unspecified health issue and will be out for the start of the preseason. Watch NBC Bay Area News free wherever you are "Kristaps is going to be out indefinitely with a health issue that I was informed about yesterday, so he'll miss the start of camp here.
Kyle Juszczyk clarifies 'juice' celebration after 49ers fullback fined by NFL
The major headline in the NFL world Thursday was 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk bizarrely being fined nearly $15,000 for what the league determined to be an “imitation of chugging a beer” that “could reasonably be construed as being in poor taste.” Of course — as any member of the 49ers Faithful, and likely most football fans in general, know well — the 14-year veteran's celebration is a reference to his “Juice” nickname.
Kyle Juszczyk clarifies ‘juice' celebration after 49ers fullback fined by NFL
The major headline in the NFL world Thursday was 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk bizarrely being fined nearly $15,000 for what the league determined to be an "imitation of chugging a beer" that "could reasonably be construed as being in poor taste." Of course -- as any member of the 49ers Faithful, and likely most football fans in general, know well -- the 14-year veteran's celebration is a reference to his "Juice" nickname.
Warriors reportedly signing NBA Summer League standout to final two-way spot
The Warriors reportedly are filling their third and final two-way spot on their roster, and it's going to a potentially surprising player. Golden State is signing big man Graham Ike to a two-year, two-way contract, ClutchPoints' Kenzo Fukuda reported Sunday, citing a source. Watch NBC Bay Area News free wherever you are Ike went undrafted out of Gonzaga earlier this year before signing with the Warriors for to play in the NBA Summer League -- where Golden State won the championship.
49ers star Brock Purdy first NFL QB in five years to achieve unique passing feat
Brock Purdy was balling on Sunday in Santa Clara. The 49ers quarterback completed 20 of 22 passing attempts for 287 yards and two touchdowns -- in addition to a rushing score -- in a 35-13 drubbing of the Miami Dolphins at Levi's Stadium. Watch NBC Bay Area News free wherever you are That arguably wasn't even the most impressive part of his performance, either. According to Next Gen Stats, Purdy went a perfect 10 for 10 on passes of at least 10 air yards, going for 211 yards and a touchdown.
Kyle Shanahan shoots down potential Brandon Aiyuk return amid 49ers' WR injuries Original
It wouldn't be football season without the 49ers losing some key players to injury. Last year, San Francisco lost practically its entire front seven. And two weeks into the 2026 NFL season, the 49ers' group of wide receivers already has taken a significant hit. Ricky Pearsall was lost for the season during training camp, and Christian Kirk is on IR with an injury suffered on the opening day of practice. De'Zhaun Stribling was injured in Week 1 and is set to miss at least 10 weeks.
Victor Bericoto's big night not enough as Giants' bullpen falters vs. Dodgers Original
BOX SCORE For the second consecutive night, the Giants hung with their rivals for much of the game at Dodger Stadium. But for the second consecutive night, the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied for a big inning against San Francisco reliever Philip Abner, and it was more than enough to seal a 10-4 win on Saturday. Entering the eighth inning leading 3-2 on Friday, the Dodgers teed off on Abner for four homers to seal that victory.
Why Steve Kerr understands Warriors fans' 'weird' feelings about LeBron pursuit
The Warriors' pursuit of LeBron James was perhaps the largest storyline of this NBA offseason in the Bay. However, after James eventually signed with the Philadelphia 76ers , coach Steve Kerr shared his belief that Golden State wasn't ever “realistically” in the running to land the 22-time All-Star.
Why Steve Kerr understands Warriors fans' ‘weird' feelings about LeBron pursuit Original
The Warriors' pursuit of LeBron James was perhaps the largest storyline of this NBA offseason in the Bay. However, after James eventually signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, coach Steve Kerr shared his belief that Golden State wasn't ever "realistically" in the running to land the 22-time All-Star.
What we learned as Rafael Devers' grand slam not enough as Giants lose to Padres Original
NBC Universal, Inc. San Francisco Giants slugger Rafael Devers smashes a grand slam in the fifth inning against the San Diego Padres on Friday at Oracle Park. BOX SCORE SAN FRANCISCO -- The Giants entered a weekend series against the San Diego Padres with about as much momentum as they've had all season after recording their first true sweep of the season earlier in the week.
Los Angeles Times columnist's bold Rams prediction ages poorly after 49ers' win
NBC Universal, Inc. On “49ers Postgame Live,” NBC Sports’ Matt Maiocco and the crew discuss their takeaways from San Francisco’s 27-7 win over the Los Angeles Rams. The start of the 2026 NFL season means just one thing. People are going to have some bad takes. That yearly ritual already is well underway -- particularly for Los Angeles Times columnist Bill Plaschke. Earlier this week, Plaschke predicted the Los Angeles Rams to go undefeated en route to a Super Bowl title.
49ers vs. Rams live updates: Mike Evans shines as SF takes 3-0 lead
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What to KnowProgramming note: NBC Sports Bay Area and NBC Bay Area will provide complete coverage of the 49ers' season opener against the Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday, Sept. 10. First, tune in to NBC Sports Bay Area at 4:30 p.m. PT for "49ers Pregame Live."
By Angelina Martin Verified, Ali Thanawalla Verified, Nick Avila, Will Simonds, Matt Maiocco Verified, Jennifer Lee Chan Verified
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Bay Area Daily News
Tony Vitello shares another odd explanation for ejection in Giants' win vs. Mets
For the third time in 10 days, Giants manager Tony Vitello was ejected on Saturday. And for the second time, there was a confusing reasoning behind it. In the second inning of San Francisco's 9-5 win over the New York Mets at Citi Field, Turner Hill appeared to be hit by a pitch on his hand. However, home plate umpire Jeremie Rehak ruled the ball hit Hill's bat instead, so Vitello challenged the call. After a replay review from the league office, the dubious call on the field stood.
Tony Vitello shares another odd explanation for ejection in Giants' win vs. Mets
Tony Vitello shares another odd explanation for ejection in Giants' win vs. Mets Tony Vitello shares another odd explanation for ejection in Giants' win vs. Mets Tony Vitello shares another odd explanation for ejection in Giants' win vs. Mets originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area For the third time in 10 days, Giants manager Tony Vitello was ejected on Saturday. And for the second time, there was a confusing reasoning behind it.
Athletics' first four-homer inning since 2002 fuels close road win over Mariners
Entering this weekend, it had been nearly a quarter-century since the Athletics had last hit four home runs in one inning. Spoiler alert: That changed in a 7-6 win over the Seattle Mariners on Friday night at T-Mobile Park. The A's trailed early after the Mariners scored twice on starter Kade Morris in the second inning. But that deficit didn't last long, as the bats caught fire for the Green and Gold.
Athletics' first four-homer inning since 2002 fuels close road win over Mariners
Athletics' first four-homer inning since 2002 fuels close road win over Mariners Athletics' first four-homer inning since 2002 fuels close road win over Mariners Athletics' first four-homer inning since 2002 fuels close road win over Mariners originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area Entering this weekend, it had been nearly a quarter-century since the Athletics had last hit four home runs in one inning.
Anthony Molina handles ‘adversity' against former team in Giants' win vs. Braves Original
NBC Universal, Inc. Giants pitcher Anthony Molina speaks to reporters after San Francisco’s 7-3 win over the Atlanta Braves on Monday at Truist Park. Less than 24 hours before the 2026 MLB trade deadline, the Giants traded veteran starter Tyler Mahle to the Atlanta Braves. Mahle has been fantastic since joining his new team; his 1.48 ERA in five starts is the lowest for any starting pitcher moved at this year's deadline.
49ers roster cutdown live updates: Who's on initial 53-man squad for 2026 season
NBC Universal, Inc. “49ers Now” hosts Kylen Mills, Jennifer Lee Chan and Rod Brooks discuss which San Francisco players made a strong case to be on the 53-man roster. The San Francisco 49ers have until 3 p.m. PT on Sunday to cut down their roster from 90 to 53 players before Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. NBC Sports Bay Area's Matt Maiocco released his final 53-man roster projection, which includes some tough decisions for who will claim the last open spots.
George Kittle reportedly expected to practice before 49ers leave for Australia
George Kittle continues to get closer and closer to being back at full strength. The 49ers star tight end is expected to practice this week as he recovers from a torn Achilles suffered during the NFL playoffs in January, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday, citing sources.
George Kittle reportedly expected to practice before 49ers leave for Australia Original
George Kittle continues to get closer and closer to being back at full strength. The 49ers' star tight end is expected to practice this week as he recovers from a torn Achilles suffered during the NFL playoffs in January, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Sunday, citing sources.
Tony Vitello reveals bizarre reason for ejection in Giants' loss to D-backs
Giants manager Tony Vitello was ejected for the second time in three days during San Francisco's 10-6 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday at Oracle Park. After the game, Vitello shared the bizarre reason he believes he was ejected by home plate umpire Alan Porter for arguing a dubious fair ball call in the third inning. “I pointed out that I thought it was a foul ball,” Vitello told reporters.
Tony Vitello reveals bizarre reason for ejection in Giants' loss to D-backs
Giants manager Tony Vitello was ejected for the second time in three days during San Francisco's 10-6 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday at Oracle Park. After the game, Vitello shared the bizarre reason he believes he was ejected by home plate umpire Alan Porter for arguing a dubious fair ball call in the third inning. "I pointed out that I thought it was a foul ball," Vitello told reporters.
Giants' Tony Vitello, Logan Webb ejected after controversial call vs. D-backs Original
For the second time in three days, Giants manager Tony Vitello has been ejected from a game after arguing with umpires. During the top of the third inning of San Francisco's game Friday against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Nolan Arenado hit a ground ball down the third-base line, which narrowly was ruled fair for a double. Arenado would go on to score one batter later on a Tim Tawa home run, as part of a five-run inning for the D-backs.
Tony Vitello reveals bizarre reason for ejection in Giants' loss to D-backs
Tony Vitello reveals bizarre reason for ejection in Giants' loss to D-backs Tony Vitello reveals bizarre reason for ejection in Giants' loss to D-backs Tony Vitello reveals bizarre reason for ejection in Giants' loss to D-backs originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area Giants manager Tony Vitello was ejected for the second time in three days during San Francisco's 10-6 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday at Oracle Park.
49ers vs. Raiders live updates: Old rivalry returns for final preseason tune-up
49ers vs. Raiders live updates: Old rivalry returns for final preseason tune-up
49ers vs. Raiders live updates: Old rivalry returns for final preseason tune-up Original
NBC Universal, Inc. On “49ers Talk,” Matt Maiocco and Jennifer Lee Chan break down Jed York’s arrest and how it might impact San Francisco ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The San Francisco 49ers (1-1) are on the road to face the Las Vegas Raiders (1-1) in their 2026 NFL preseason finale on Thursday night at Allegiant Stadium.
Adrian Houser has ‘positive vibe' despite early injury exit in Giants' win Original
SAN FRANCISCO -- Tuesday night felt a bit like déjà vu for the Giants when, for the second consecutive game, their starting pitcher exited early with an arm injury. And though the team received bad news about Carson Whisenhunt earlier in the afternoon after he left Monday's win against the Cincinnati Reds, the initial outlook for Adrian Houser appears a bit more optimistic. "Just some tightness in his flexor," manager Tony Vitello said after the Giants' 3-1 win. "Felt good in the bullpen.
Giants' Carson Whisenhunt undergoes MRI revealing torn UCL, surgery recommended Original
Another promising young Giants pitcher appears set to miss an extended period of time with an elbow injury. After exiting Monday's game against the Cincinnati Reds in the third inning, Carson Whisenhunt underwent an MRI on Tuesday. The test revealed a tear of his UCL, and surgery has been recommended for the 25-year-old left-hander. The Giants announced that surgery was recommended for Carson Whisenhunt after an MRI revealed a tear of his UCL.
49ers vs. Chargers live updates: Jacob Cowing's punt-return TD sparks 41-17 win
NBC Universal, Inc. “49ers Talk” hosts Matt Maiocco and Jennifer Lee Chan share some surprise picks to make San Francisco’s final 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season. The San Francisco 49ers (1-1) won 41-17 in their second game of the 2026 NFL preseason against the Los Angeles Chargers (1-1) on Thursday night at SoFi Stadium. De'Zhaun Stribling had another impressive performance, posting four catches for 46 yards, including multiple third-down conversions.
49ers vs. Chargers live updates: Brock Purdy, some starters make preseason debut
NBC Universal, Inc. “49ers Talk” hosts Matt Maiocco and Jennifer Lee Chan share some surprise picks to make San Francisco’s final 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season. The San Francisco 49ers (0-1) will play their second game of the 2026 NFL preseason against the Los Angeles Chargers (1-0) on Thursday night at SoFi Stadium. Coach Kyle Shanahan expects "a number of starters to play" in the 49ers' preseason game, including quarterback Brock Purdy, though not all of them.
49ers' Christian McCaffrey reportedly having ‘actual tightness,' not a hold-in
Following speculation earlier Monday that Christian McCaffrey was holding in from 49ers training camp possibly to restructure his contract, a new report has emerged that goes against that rumor. The general "tightness" McCaffrey has been dealing with for the last week -- which is all the team has shared on his status -- is real, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on "The Insiders." "Let me give you the contract update here," Rapoport explained.
49ers' Christian McCaffrey reportedly having ‘actual tightness,' not a hold-in
Following speculation earlier on Monday that Christian McCaffrey was holding in from 49ers training camp, possibly to restructure his contract, a new report has emerged that goes against that rumor. The general "tightness" McCaffrey has been dealing with for the last week -- which is all the team has shared on his status -- is real, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on "The Insiders." Watch NBC Bay Area News free wherever you are "Let me give you the contract update here," Rapoport explained.
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