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The 2026 NCAA baseball tournament bracket is officially set, with UCLA, Georgia Tech and north carolina entering as major favorites. The 64 team field begins regional action this week before teams battle toward Omaha and the College World Series. Several SEC programs remain strong contenders, but balanced competition across conferences could make this year’s tournament especially unpredictable and exciting.

Country star Eric Church delivered a commencement speech at UNC Chapel Hill, using guitar strings as a metaphor for life's essential pillars: faith, family, love, ambition, community, and individuality. He emphasized the importance of keeping these aspects in tune for a harmonious existence, concluding with a performance of 'Carolina'.

Ancient stone tools from North and South Carolina reveal direct evidence of Ice Age megafauna hunting. Immunological and microwear analyses detected protein residues of mammoths, mastodons, and ancient horses on tools used for butchery and hide scraping. These findings provide crucial insights into Paleoamerican hunting practices in eastern North America, where bone preservation is rare.

Jordon Hudson reportedly sent a waving emoji to reporter David Covucci after learning he was tracking her FOIA requests connected to Bill Belichick’s CBS interview controversy. Covucci revealed Hudson had searched for university emails mentioning her relationship with Belichick, but said nothing suspicious was found. The story has added more attention to the ongoing public discussion surrounding the couple.

Kyle Busch’s final hours have come into focus after PEOPLE obtained audio from a 911 call made on May 20. The NASCAR star was reportedly coughing up blood and struggling to breathe at a training facility in north carolina. Busch later died at age 41 on May 21. Days earlier, he had openly spoken about ongoing respiratory problems after recent races.

Nyan Brown spoke out after Mallard Creek lost a state title because officials disqualified the team during the 4x400-meter relay. Brown raised five fingers before the finish line to celebrate what he thought was a fifth straight championship. Officials called it unsportsmanlike conduct. Brown said he never meant to taunt anyone and believes athletes should be allowed to celebrate big moments.

A tragic bus crash on Interstate 95 in Virginia claimed five lives and injured dozens. The passenger bus, en route from New York to north carolina, collided with multiple vehicles in a work zone. Authorities have charged the bus driver with involuntary manslaughter as the investigation into the high-speed collision continues. Four victims were identified as a family from Massachusetts.

Hockey legend Claude Lemieux, a four-time Stanley Cup winner and notorious agitator, has passed away at 60. Known for his fierce on-ice persona, Lemieux was a devoted family man, cherishing his wife Deborah and four children. His legacy extends through his son Brendan, also a professional hockey player, and his brother Jocelyn, continuing a multi-generational hockey dynasty.

Embark on an unforgettable American adventure with seven incredible road trips. From the nostalgic charm of Route 66 to the dramatic coastal beauty of California State Route 1, these journeys offer mental renewal and a profound sense of freedom. Explore diverse landscapes, delve into history, and discover breathtaking views that promise rejuvenation.

Kyle Busch’s final public outing has taken on a heartbreaking meaning after fan Naz Idoura shared details of their meeting at a north carolina karting facility. Busch spent the day watching his son Brexton race and later spoke warmly with fans. Days later, the NASCAR champion died after severe pneumonia developed into sepsis, leaving the racing world in shock.

President Trump acknowledged the dangers of public office, stating he doesn't dwell on threats to effectively lead. This comes after recent security scares, including a shooting near the White House Correspondents' Dinner and an incident at his Mar-a-Lago resort. He emphasized that consequential leaders face significant risks in a dangerous business.

Former Indian badminton star Veda Vyas Sai Anumula is making significant strides in the US circuit. Leveraging his elite coaching and management skills, he's instrumental in developing American talent. Anumula, a former national player, has guided young athletes to numerous medals in USA Badminton events, including a junior national medal, showcasing his impact on the sport's growth in America.

Kyle Busch’s family confirmed that the NASCAR star died after severe pneumonia developed into sepsis. The 41-year-old became unresponsive during a simulator session in north carolina before being hospitalized. Richard Childress Racing later honored Busch by retiring the No. 8 car for the rest of the season. Busch leaves behind a legendary NASCAR career and a grieving racing community.

The 2026 Scripps National Spelling Bee has entered its final stage, with 247 students from across the United States and other countries competing in one of the world’s biggest English language contests. Indian-origin students continue to dominate the competition, with 30 of the last 36 winners belonging to the community. This year’s finalists will compete for more than $50,000 in cash and prizes

Jordon Hudson has renewed criticism of major NFL media outlets over their handling of the Mike Vrabel-Dianna Russini controversy. Hudson argues that networks aggressively covered her relationship with Bill Belichick while avoiding detailed discussion about allegations involving Vrabel and Russini. Her comments gained traction after she reposted a montage highlighting media reluctance to address the story. The debate has now expanded into broader questions about consistency, newsroom priorities, and double standards in NFL coverage.

Escape city lights and discover the cosmos. The United States boasts special dark sky parks, preserving natural darkness for incredible stargazing. These locations offer clear views of constellations, satellites, and meteor showers. From Texas's Big Bend to Arizona's Grand Canyon, explore these natural wonders. Experience the universe like never before in these pristine, protected environments.

The United States will officially unveil its 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup during a live event in New York, with Mauricio Pochettino preparing for his first major tournament as USMNT manager. Leaked reports have already revealed much of the expected roster, including Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie and Gio Reyna, ahead of the host nation’s highly anticipated World Cup campaign next month.

Kyle Busch will miss the Coca-Cola 600 and NASCAR Truck Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway after being hospitalized with a severe illness. His family confirmed the news in a social media statement and asked for privacy. Richard Childress Racing named Austin Hill as Busch’s replacement driver. Fans and NASCAR teams have shared support messages while Busch continues receiving medical treatment.

Michael Jordan fulfilled the final wish of his former high school teacher, Ms. Etta, by surprising her with an emotional FaceTime call while she received hospice care in Wilmington, north carolina. According to WECT 6, the two laughed, shared memories, and enjoyed a heartfelt reunion. The touching moment reminded many fans that Jordan still values the people who shaped his early life.

NASCAR crew member Donovan Williams suffered injuries after protecting Fox Sports reporter Amanda Busick from a runaway 4,000-pound pit cart at Dover Motor Speedway. Busick called Williams a hero and said he saved her life during the terrifying accident. Both received medical treatment and are expected to recover after the shocking pit road incident in Delaware.

The Dallas Cowboys are being linked to Arizona Cardinals pass rusher Josh Sweat as trade rumors continue to build around the veteran defender. Reports claim Sweat is unhappy with his contract situation, with the Eagles and Packers also monitoring the market. Dallas’ connection through defensive coordinator Christian Parker makes the fit intriguing, especially as the Cowboys search for another reliable edge rusher to strengthen their defense heading into the 2026 NFL season.

WWE RAW's May 18 episode features Roman Reigns addressing his rivalry with Jacob Fatu. The WWE Women's Tag Team Championships are on the line as Paige & Brie Bella face Raquel Rodriguez & Roxanne Perez.

A light moment from Tom Brady’s Georgetown speech has kept the Belichick-Brady narrative in conversation, especially after Jordon Hudson’s subtle online reaction. Brady’s remarks blended humour with reflection on their long Patriots partnership, while Hudson’s repost signalled ease with the joke. The episode also highlights how their personal and professional circles continue to intersect in public discourse, amplified by social media attention and ongoing curiosity around their relationship dynamics.

Mauricio Pochettino and US Soccer turned the 2026 World Cup squad reveal into a major televised event in New York City, reflecting the growing profile of soccer in America ahead of a home World Cup. The announcement highlighted a squad built around experienced leaders like Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams, while omissions such as Tanner Tessmann and Diego Luna quickly became major talking points.

Brock Lesnar made a shocking return on WWE RAW, laying out Oba Femi and setting up a rematch for Clash in Italy. The show also featured a Tribal Combat match announcement for Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu, alongside several other competitive bouts and a chaotic main event.

north carolina's Spring & Mulberry has expanded its recall to all 12 chocolate bar flavors due to potential Salmonella contamination linked to a specific batch of date ingredients. While no illnesses have been reported and products tested negative, the company urges consumers to discard affected chocolates and seek refunds via email.