Latest news with #All‑Star
Time of India
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Who is Paige Buecker's girlfriend? Everything you need to know about basketball's latest ‘power-couple'
Image via Instagram/ Azzi Fudd Paige Bueckers isn't just dominating the WNBA courts—she's winning hearts off the court too. The basketball phenom, who's already made waves as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, has sparked a media frenzy after subtly going public with her romantic life. Long speculated but never confirmed, the identity of Bueckers' girlfriend has finally been revealed—none other than her former UConn teammate and best friend, Azzi Fudd. From locker room laughs to headline-making appearances, the pair's bond has evolved into a romance that's now impossible to ignore. Their recent public outings, cozy social media moments, and playful on-camera confirmations have sent fans into a tizzy. As Bueckers takes her first season in the pros by storm, her relationship with Fudd adds an inspiring and refreshing chapter to sports celebrity culture—one that's proudly queer, authentic, and fiercely modern. Who is Azzi Fudd? Azzi Fudd, like Bueckers, was a standout at UConn. A guard originally from the Washington, DC, area, she was recruited by Bueckers herself and joined the Huskies as a freshman in 2021. Known for her quieter demeanor complementing Bueckers's more outspoken personality, Fudd's work ethic and talent quickly earned her a reputation as one of the nation's elite guards. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like American Investor Warren Buffett Recommends: 5 Books For Turning Your Life Around Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo How did the love-birds meet? Their bond stretches back to teenage years at a USA Basketball camp, through championship runs at UConn. As reported, 'We're similar, but at the same time very different,' Fudd told CT Insider; 'I'm quieter, she's louder, but we have a lot of the same qualities: our work ethic, our goals' (via. Autostraddle). Bueckers even personally recruited Fudd to UConn—an early sign of the depth of their connection. What does Azzi Fudd do for a living? Fudd remains an active collegiate athlete at UConn, honing her game for a future WNBA career likely with the 2026 draft class. Meanwhile, Bueckers began her pro career this season with the Dallas Wings, earning All‑Star honors already in 2025. Off the court, Fudd has leveraged her heightened profile—posting viral TikToks of the duo doing trending memes, like the dinner bill bit: 'Princess treatment every time I'm with her' (via. Autostraddle). The subtle social media revelations of the 'it' couple Image via Instagram/ Azzi Fudd stories Their relationship arc has been publicly trackable: Fudd posted an Instagram story showing her phone case reading, 'Paige Bueckers' Girlfriend'—a pointed, cheeky confirmation during Pride Month. The turn from speculation to acknowledgement continued at the WNBA All‑Star orange carpet, where a fan asked Bueckers, 'How well do you know your D1 girlfriend?' She responded with a smile and a playful 'Alright'. They've been seen holding hands after Lost Angeles Wings road games, flaunting matching 'A' and 'P' necklaces, and cheering each other from the stands—Fudd rocking Bueckers's No. 5 jersey at a Wings‑Mystics game. What began as an unshakeable friendship forged in high‑pressure collegiate arenas has blossomed into a deeply supportive romantic bond. Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd's relationship offers more than ambient celebrity romance—it's a public testament to LGBTQ+ representation in high‑profile women's sports. With social media soft‑launches building to bold gestures of acknowledgment, the pair is demonstrating that love, visibility, and athletic excellence can coexist powerfully. As both navigate pro and collegiate careers, their union signifies a broader cultural moment where love and identity stand proudly alongside achievement. For Bueckers fans and sports watchers, the answer to 'Who is Paige Bueckers's girlfriend?' is clear—and inspiring: her partner, confidante, and fellow trailblazer, Azzi Fudd. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Livvy Dunne turns heads in white bikini as Paul Skenes joins her for beach day after MLB All-Star Game
Livvy Dunne turns heads in white bikini as Paul Skenes joins her for beach day after MLB All-Star Game (Image via Getty) All eyes were on Paul Skenes, Pittsburgh Pirates' star pitcher, and his girlfriend Olivia 'Livvy' Dunne as they enjoyed a relaxing beach day shortly after attending the 2025 MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta. The couple shared joyful moments at Siesta Key, Florida, providing fans a glimpse of their off-field life together. Paul Skenes and Livvy Dunne enjoy beach break after All-Star excitement After a whirlwind weekend in Atlanta—including the red carpet and Home Run Derby—Paul Skenes and Livvy Dunne headed to Siesta Key for a much‑needed getaway. Livvy, a former LSU gymnast turned media influencer, posted a sun‑drenched picture of the two relaxing by the waves. Livvy Dunne turns heads in white bikini as Paul Skenes joins her for beach day after MLB All-Star Game Paul Skenes, who started for the National League in the All‑Star Game with a standout performance, looked carefree in casual summer wear while Dunne showed off her elegant beach style in a stunning white bikini. The pair's beach trip came just days after Skenes received praise for helping Dunne fix her shoe during the All‑Star red carpet in Atlanta. That sweet gesture captured public attention and added to the couple's growing affectionate reputation. Also Read: Paul Skenes Wins Hearts With Sweet Gesture As Olivia Dunne Stuns In Blue Dress At All-Star Carpet Event Paul Skenes balances baseball stardom with personal life and paparazzi love While making his mark on the diamond, posting a 2.01 ERA and over 130 strikeouts, Paul Skenes also managed to steal hearts off the field with his support for Livvy Dunne. Their beach outing in Florida highlights how the couple blends life as young public figures with moments of normalcy and relaxation. Livvy Dunne, known for her large social media following and recent graduation from LSU, used her Instagram Stories to share snapshots of the serene escape. Fans responded warmly, celebrating the pair's meaningful connection, including the newly viral beach shots. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Indiana Fever React to Caitlin Clark All-Star Update on Tuesday
Indiana Fever React to Caitlin Clark All-Star Update on Tuesday originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Just ahead of the WNBA All‑Star break, the Indiana Fever find themselves perched above .500 at 11-10, sitting third in the Eastern Conference. Advertisement Their mid‑season surge has been fueled by a franchise‑record 64 points in a single half on Sunday against the Dallas Wings and by securing the Commissioner's Cup title on July 1 with a 74-59 victory over the Minnesota Lynx. Fever coach Stephanie White has guided her squad through peaks and valleys, but it's their recent home‑court success that has fans buzzing as they head into All‑Star Weekend. Adding to the hype, the WNBA announced on Tuesday that Fever star guard Caitlin Clark will make her professional debut in the 2025 WNBA STARRY 3‑Point Contest on Friday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Fever took to X to celebrate Clark's moment shortly after, posting with the message, "HEAT CHECK 🔥 repping the home team, Caitlin Clark is locked in for the 2025 WNBA STARRY 3-Point Contest at #WNBAAllStar2025! 👌🏀." Advertisement As the NCAA's all‑time Division I leading scorer and a two‑time national player of the year, Clark entered the WNBA in 2024 with immense expectations. Clark immediately lived up to the hype, capturing the WNBA Rookie of the Year award, leading the league in assists, earning All‑WNBA First Team honors and becoming an All-Star in her first year in Indiana. This season, Clark has continued to impress with averages of 16.7 points, 9.0 assists and 4.8 rebounds per game over 12 contests, while adding 1.7 steals per night. Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark grabs a rebound against the Golden State Valkyries at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Smith / IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images Clark's entry into the 3‑Point Contest marks her first appearance in the league's long‑standing shootout and she'll line up against defending champ Allisha Gray, 3-point event record-holder Sabrina Ionescu, rising rookie Sonia Citron and WNBA veteran Kelsey Plum. Advertisement Having their star guard in a signature All‑Star event on Indiana soil only elevates anticipation for the weekend among Fever fans and the franchise Related: Lexie Hull Shares Honest Take on Playing Without Caitlin Clark Related: New DeWanna Bonner Update Emerges After Release From Indiana Fever This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 15, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Outrage explodes over ESPN's shockingly insensitive Bobby Jenks tribute
Image via CNN A recent social media post by ESPN announcing the death of former Major League Baseball closer Bobby Jenks has ignited sharp criticism from fans, former teammates, and media commentators. In its brief X post, ESPN referred to Jenks as simply 'on the roster when the franchise won the 2005 World Series,' a description many felt severely downplayed his pivotal role. Jenks, a two-time All‑Star, played a crucial part in Chicago's championship run, not just as a member of the team but as its closer—securing key saves in both the ALDS and the World Series. He passed away at age 44 in Sintra, Portugal, after battling adenocarcinoma. The tone-deaf announcement prompted demands for a more accurate and respectful tribute. ESPN's post on X draws backlash from fans worldwide ESPN's original post on X read: ' Bobby Jenks, a two‑time All‑Star pitcher for the Chicago White Sox , who was on the roster when the franchise won the 2005 World Series, died on Friday in Sintra, Portugal, the team announced.' The phrase ' on the roster ' triggered immediate scorn. Former first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz reacted sharply: 'ESPN should be ashamed and embarrassed for writing something like this! 'Was on the roster'? He was THE CLOSER on a championship winning team. Do some research before you release something. Have some respect! RIP Bobby Jenks condolences to his family and teammates.' Catchers A.J. Pierzynski and Brandon McCarthy likewise voiced their displeasure. Pierzynski emphasized: 'He did a whole lot more than just be on the roster! He closed out the World Series!! #RIPBobbyJenks #2005forever.' ESPN gets DESTROYED for DISRESPECTFUL post announcing the DEATH of White Sox champ Bobby Jenks! Media critics reinforced that this phrasing failed to acknowledge Jenks' performance—he wasn't merely a rostered player but a dominant closer whose fastball topped 100 mph and whose contribution was indispensable during Chicago's sweep of Houston. Beyond 'just on the roster': Jenks's true impact Bobby Jenks, Former White Sox Pitcher, Dead at 44 As a rookie in 2005, Jenks became the dependable late-inning option, appearing in all four World Series games and securing the final outs in Games 1 and 4. During that postseason run he pitched six games, notching multiple saves—one clincher in the ALDS and two in the Fall Classic—and helping seal Chicago's series sweep. He finished his career with an impressive 173 saves, two All-Star appearances (2006 and 2007), and a 3.53 ERA. Beyond his playing days, Jenks went on to coach in the minor leagues, managing teams such as the Grand Junction Rockies and the Windy City ThunderBolts. He was named Manager of the Year in 2022 and remained active in baseball even amid his health struggles. Soon-to-be-held events, such as the 20th‑anniversary celebration of the 2005 White Sox, have taken on a more somber tone following his passing. Former manager Ozzie Guillen and Hall‑of‑Famer Frank Thomas publicly noted the team was 'crushed' by the loss, sharing memories of Jenks's competitive fire and character. The terse wording of ESPN's announcement sharply contrasted with the significance of Bobby Jenks's legacy. Describing him as merely 'on the roster' prompted a justified outcry for journalistic responsibility and accuracy. Jenks was far more than a nominal team member—he was the closer who delivered historic postseason performances, an All‑Star, a championship cornerstone, and later, a mentor in baseball's coaching ranks. His death at 44, following a valiant fight against adenocarcinoma, leaves a void both on and off the field. As tributes continue, the baseball community rightly insists on commemorating Jenks as the impactful athlete, coach, husband, father, and friend he truly was. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Time of India
01-07-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Caitlin Clark snub explodes into WNBA firestorm after Dick Vitale calls out jealous players
Caitlin Clark snub explodes into WNBA firestorm after Dick Vitale calls out jealous players (Image Source: Getty Images) The WNBA world lit up with debate after ESPN legend Dick Vitale slammed the players' All-Star voting results, calling out 'pure jealousy' over Caitlin Clark's low ranking. Despite leading in fan votes and earning a captain spot, Clark was voted just ninth among guards by fellow players. Vitale's fiery reaction has reignited discussion over Clark's growing impact and controversy in her rookie season. Dick Vitale blasts player vote over Caitlin Clark in July 2025 All‑Star selection On July 1, ESPN icon Dick Vitale known as 'Dickie V' took to X to criticize WNBA players' All‑Star voting. He pointed out that Caitlin Elizabeth Clark was ranked only ninth among guards by her fellow professionals. 'Absolutely PURE JEALOUSY,' he wrote. 'Someday they will realize what she has done for ALL of the players in the WNBA. Charted planes – increase in salaries – sold out crowds – improved TV Ratings.' Clark earned her All‑Star spot primarily through strong support from fans and media. She placed first in fans' votes and third in media rankings, securing her captain role for the July 19 event at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Still, the players' low ranking stung Vitale, who argued it betrayed a reaction rooted in envy rather than merit. Caitlin Clark's season stats and league impact draw both praise and scrutiny Caitlin Clark, 23-year-old guard for the Indiana Fever, has made waves since entering the WNBA. Despite missing seven of her team's 16 games due to quad and groin injuries, she still averages 18.2 points, 8.9 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. However, her field-goal percentage sits at 39%, and she's shooting around 29.5% from 3-point range. Her strong fan following made history, she received 1.3 million fan votes, the most ever in WNBA All‑Star voting. She also claimed third place among media voters. But peer voting ranked her outside the top eight guards, which many, like Vitale, found baffling. Vitale argued that Clark's presence has boosted the league in obvious ways. He said the WNBA now has chartered flights, sold-out arenas, rising salaries, and stronger TV ratings and she deserves credit for all of it. Some analysts suggested that her low player vote could reflect concerns about her time on court. Missing nearly half the games surely made an impression among fellow players. Also Read: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Becomes NBA's Highest-Paid Player with $285M Thunder Extension After Historic MVP Season Still, Caitlin Clark's dominant fan and media support earned her a captain spot. Now set for the July 19 All‑Star Game, she will lead a team and has a chance to show why Vitale and many others believe she deserves every bit of the spotlight, despite some resistance within the league. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
