Latest news with #NickBaker
Fox Sports
21-07-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
College Basketball Crown Announces Dates for 2026 Tournament
We may not know who will wear the College Basketball Crown in 2026. But we now know when we'll find out. Dates for the 2026 tournament were announced on Monday, with the tournament starting on Tuesday, April 1, and ending on Sunday, April 5. Just like the first edition of the tournament, the 2026 College Basketball Crown will take place in Las Vegas. Games will be played at either the MGM Grand Garden Arena or T-Mobile Arena. However, there will be one change made to the College Basketball Crown 2026. There will only be eight teams in the tournament, cutting the field in half from the inaugural edition. The eight teams that will make up the 2026 field for the College Basketball Crown will consist of the top two teams in the Big East, Big Ten and Big 12 that didn't make the NCAA Tournament, along with two wild card teams selected by the committee. "We launched the College Basketball Crown to create more opportunities for elite competition during the thrilling college basketball post-season – and we saw an incredible response from fans, conferences, and players for the inaugural tournament," FOX Sports executive vice president and College Basketball Crown board member Jordan Bazant said in a release. "We look forward to building on that momentum this spring by delivering high stakes matchups between top teams throughout the competition on FOX and FS1." "The College Basketball Crown has already proven to be a premium, athlete-first post-season platform that delivers for schools, our brand partners, and fans," President and COO of AEG Global Partnerships and College Basketball Crown board member Nick Baker added. "We're proud to continue this tournament alongside FOX Sports and our partners and we look forward to raising the bar once again in 2026 with top-tier talent, world-class venues, and continued innovation." Nebraska won the inaugural edition of the College Basketball Crown in 2025, winning three of its four games by double digits. It took down UCF in the title game, 77-66. The inaugural edition of the College Basketball Crown featured a $300,000 name, image and likeness (NIL) prize pool for the champion. UCF, the runner-up, received a $100,000 NIL prize pool. Villanova and Boise State, who lost in the semifinals, received a $50,000 NIL prize pool. New NIL prize opportunities related to the College Basketball Crown will be announced at a later date. The second edition of the College Basketball Crown will also air on FOX and FS1. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account, follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily . FOLLOW Follow your favorites to personalize your FOX Sports experience Big East Big Ten Big 12 recommended Item 1 of 1 Get more from the College Basketball Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more in this topic
Business Wire
21-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
FOX Sports and AEG Announce Official Dates for the 2026 College Basketball Crown With Elite Eight-Team Field
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following a hugely successful inaugural tournament, FOX Sports and AEG today announced the official dates for the 2026 College Basketball Crown. The elite post-season college hoops tournament delivered compelling matchups, impressive viewership and a captivating championship run by Nebraska – becoming a must-see competition showcasing elite programs that narrowly miss NCAA Tournament selection. In 2026, the College Basketball Crown will take place April 1–5 at both the MGM Grand Garden Arena as well as T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, and air on FOX and FS1. Year two features a newly streamlined eight-team field and continued support from its first-year brand partners. The 2026 field will feature the top two teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, and BIG EAST conferences that do not receive NCAA Tournament bids, plus two wild card teams selected by committee. The 2026 College Basketball Crown quarterfinals will take place Wednesday, April 1 and Thursday, April 2 at MGM Grand Garden Arena, with T-Mobile Arena hosting the semifinals Saturday, April 4 and the championship matchup Sunday, April 5. 'We launched the College Basketball Crown to create more opportunities for elite competition during the thrilling college basketball post-season – and we saw an incredible response from fans, conferences, and players for the inaugural tournament,' said Jordan Bazant, Executive Vice President, FOX Sports, and board member of the College Basketball Crown. 'We look forward to building on that momentum this spring by delivering high stakes matchups between top teams throughout the competition on FOX and FS1.' The new eight-team format reflects a strategic refinement, designed to deliver stronger matchups, enhanced fan experiences, and continued commercial success across every stage of the tournament. 'The College Basketball Crown has already proven to be a premium, athlete-first post-season platform that delivers for schools, our brand partners, and fans,' said Nick Baker, President and COO of AEG Global Partnerships and board member of the College Basketball Crown. 'We're proud to continue this tournament alongside FOX Sports and our partners and we look forward to raising the bar once again in 2026 with top-tier talent, world-class venues, and continued innovation.' Additionally, inaugural-year partners are continuing their support for the 2026 tournament, including: Vivid Seats – Official Ticketing Provider GHOST® – Founding Partner and Official Energy Drink and Hydration Partner JSX – Founding Partner and Official Air Carrier Circa Resort & Casino – Founding Partner and Official Host Hotel MGM Resorts International – Official Partner The College Basketball Crown also continues to drive innovation in name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes, with new enhancements expected to be announced in the lead-up to next year's tournament. Additional announcements regarding ticket sales, broadcast talent, new partners, team selection and more will follow in the coming months. For more information on the College Basketball Crown, visit: ABOUT THE COLLEGE BASKETBALL CROWN Launched by FOX Sports and AEG, the College Basketball Crown is a premier post-season college basketball tournament that debuted in March 2025 in Las Vegas at MGM Grand Garden Arena and T-Mobile Arena. Featuring elite teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, BIG EAST, and additional at-large participants, the tournament offers a new and highly competitive post-season opportunity for student-athletes and fans alike. Key partners of the inaugural College Basketball Crown include: Vivid Seats – Official Ticketing Provider GHOST® – Founding Partner; Official Energy Drink and Hydration Partner JSX – Founding Partner; Official Air Carrier Circa Resort & Casino – Founding Partner; Official Host Hotel MGM Resorts International – Official Partner For more information on the College Basketball Crown, visit: About AEG Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, AEG is the world's leading sports and live entertainment company. The company operates in the following business segments: Music through AEG Presents, which is dedicated to all aspects of live contemporary music performances, including the production and promotion of global and regional concert tours, an extensive portfolio of clubs, theaters and other music venues, concerts and special events and world-renowned festivals such as the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival; Venues and Real Estate, which develops, owns and operates world-class venues, as well as major sports and entertainment districts like Arena and L.A. LIVE, Uber Platz in Berlin and The O2 in London; Sports, as the world's largest operator of high-profile sporting events and sports franchises including the LA Kings, LA Galaxy and Eisbären Berlin; Global Partnerships, which oversees worldwide sales and servicing of sponsorships including naming rights, premium seating, and other strategic partnerships. And Ticketing, through its ticketing platform, which provides more than 400 clients worldwide with ticketing services that cover the gamut of entertainments, including sporting events, arena tours, music clubs, festivals, rodeos and family events. Through its worldwide network of venues, portfolio of powerful sports and music brands and its integrated entertainment districts, AEG entertains more than 90 million guests annually. More information about AEG can be found at About FOX Sports FOX Sports is the umbrella entity representing Fox Corporation's wide array of multi-platform US-based sports assets. Built with brands capable of reaching more than 100 million viewers in a single weekend, the business has ownership and interests in linear television networks, digital and mobile programming, broadband platforms, multiple web sites, joint-venture businesses and several licensing relationships. FOX Sports includes the sports television arm of the FOX Network; FS1, FS2, FOX Soccer Plus and FOX Deportes. FOX Sports' digital properties include and the FOX Sports App, which provides live streaming video of FOX Sports content, instant scores, stats and alerts to iOS and Android devices. Also included in FOX Sports' portfolio are FOX's interests in joint-venture businesses Big Ten Network and the UFL and a licensing agreement that established the FOX Sports Radio Network. T-Mobile Arena T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city's first professional sports team, as well as UFC's exclusive Las Vegas arena destination. The venue, named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine 's 2018 Arena Power List as well as the 'Best New Major Concert Venue' by Pollstar Magazine in 2016, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Designed and built to prioritize environmental sustainability, T-Mobile Arena was awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design® (LEED) Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2016. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About MGM Grand Garden Arena The MGM Grand Garden Arena is home to concerts, championship boxing and premier sporting and special events. The Arena offers comfortable seating for as many as 16,800 with excellent sightlines and state-of-the-art acoustics, lighting and sound. Prominent events to date have included world championship fights between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson as well as Floyd Mayweather vs. Canelo Alvarez as well as Floyd Mayweather vs. Manny Pacquiao; and concerts by The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Elton John, Bruce Springsteen, Paul McCartney, Bette Midler, George Strait, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, U2, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Coldplay, Alicia Keys, Jimmy Buffett and the Barbra Streisand Millennium Concert. The MGM Grand Garden Arena also has been home to annual events including the Academy of Country Music Awards, the Billboard Music Awards, the Latin GRAMMY Awards, iHeartRadio Music Festival, Pac-12 Men's Basketball Championship and Frozen Fury NHL pre-season games hosted by the Los Angeles Kings.
Fox Sports
21-07-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
FOX Sports and AEG Announce Official Dates for the 2026 College Basketball Crown With Elite Eight-Team Field - Fox Sports Press Pass
Tournament to air on FOX and FS1 from April 1–5 in Las Vegas LOS ANGELES, CA (July 21, 2025) – Following a hugely successful inaugural tournament, FOX Sports and AEG today announced the official dates for the 2026 College Basketball Crown. The elite post-season college hoops tournament delivered compelling matchups, impressive viewership and a captivating championship run by Nebraska – becoming a must-see competition showcasing elite programs that narrowly miss NCAA Tournament selection. In 2026, the College Basketball Crown will take place April 1–5 at both the MGM Grand Garden Arena as well as T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, and air on FOX and FS1. Year two features a newly streamlined eight-team field and continued support from its first-year brand partners. The 2026 field will feature the top two teams from the Big Ten, Big 12, and BIG EAST conferences that do not receive NCAA Tournament bids, plus two wild card teams selected by committee. The 2026 College Basketball Crown quarterfinals will take place Wednesday, April 1 and Thursday, April 2 at MGM Grand Garden Arena, with T-Mobile Arena hosting the semifinals Saturday, April 4 and the championship matchup Sunday, April 5. 'We launched the College Basketball Crown to create more opportunities for elite competition during the thrilling college basketball post-season – and we saw an incredible response from fans, conferences, and players for the inaugural tournament,' said Jordan Bazant, Executive Vice President, FOX Sports, and board member of the College Basketball Crown. 'We look forward to building on that momentum this spring by delivering high stakes matchups between top teams throughout the competition on FOX and FS1.' The new eight-team format reflects a strategic refinement, designed to deliver stronger matchups, enhanced fan experiences, and continued commercial success across every stage of the tournament. 'The College Basketball Crown has already proven to be a premium, athlete-first post-season platform that delivers for schools, our brand partners, and fans,' said Nick Baker, President and COO of AEG Global Partnerships and board member of the College Basketball Crown. 'We're proud to continue this tournament alongside FOX Sports and our partners and we look forward to raising the bar once again in 2026 with top-tier talent, world-class venues, and continued innovation.' Additionally, inaugural-year partners are continuing their support for the 2026 tournament, including: Vivid Seats – Official Ticketing Provider – Official Ticketing Provider GHOST® – Founding Partner and Official Energy Drink and Hydration Partner – Founding Partner and Official Energy Drink and Hydration Partner JSX – Founding Partner and Official Air Carrier – Founding Partner and Official Air Carrier Circa Resort & Casino – Founding Partner and Official Host Hotel – Founding Partner and Official Host Hotel MGM Resorts International – Official Partner The College Basketball Crown also continues to drive innovation in name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes, with new enhancements expected to be announced in the lead-up to next year's tournament. Additional announcements regarding ticket sales, broadcast talent, new partners, team selection and more will follow in the coming months. For more information on the College Basketball Crown, visit:
Express Tribune
21-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Dark Souls 3 remaster reportedly in development at FromSoftware for 2026 multi-platform release
Multiple sources report that FromSoftware is developing a remaster of Dark Souls 3, aiming for a 2026 release. Originally launched on March 24 2016, Dark Souls 3 marked a significant return for the series, which has become influential in discussions around game difficulty. According to information shared by known FromSoftware leaker Kurakasis, the unannounced title under the codename 'FMC' is advanced in development and planned as a multi-platform release. This aligns with speculation that the studio is preparing to mark the 10th anniversary of Dark Souls 3 with a remaster. Kurakasis claims, 'It's far enough along in development to be almost guaranteed for a 2026 release.' Fans have also referenced previous comments from XboxEra's Nick Baker, who mentioned in a 2024 stream that a Dark Souls 3 remaster was in the works, though details on its release timing remained unclear. The report notes that FromSoftware appears to be focusing on a Dark Souls 3 remaster rather than revisiting the second game in the series, aligning with fan interest in the third entry. The project is not connected to the upcoming Switch 2 exclusive Duskbloods, suggesting a broader platform strategy for the remaster. While details on potential new content or refinements in the remaster are yet to be confirmed, sources indicate it is likely to remain faithful to the original while leveraging a decade of development advancements by FromSoftware.
Time Out
14-07-2025
- Time Out
The best two-night getaway spots within three hours' drive from Sydney
You don't always need a Euro trip to feel recharged – sometimes, two nights away from the bustle of the city is all it takes for a re-set. In fact, according to research from Reflections Holidays, 57 per cent of Aussies say that shorter, local trips help them unwind better than a lengthy overseas holiday. And thankfully, there are hundreds of truly magical places to stay within a few hours drive from Sydney. We've got our own favourite weekend getaways close to the city, but thought we'd ask camping expert Nick Baker (CEO of Reflections Holiday) to share his top picks too. Read on for Nick's top seven picks for a two-night escape from Sydney – each spot is less than three hours from the CBD. Here are some of the best destinations for a two-night escape, according to a travel industry expert Jimmys Beach, NSW Just under three hours north of Sydney, Jimmys Beach feels like a little slice of paradise. It's one of those places where you can really do whatever feels right on the day. You might spend the morning out on a paddleboard or kayaking around the water, then head off on a walk to explore the area a bit further. Or maybe you just want to throw down a towel, grab a good book, and completely switch off in the sun. Kiama, NSW Famous for its spectacular blowhole and stunning coastal walks, Kiama offers a charming seaside escape just under two hours from Sydney. Watch the blowhole put on its striking show (from a safe distance) and explore the stunning Kiama Coastal Walk that stretches all the way to Gerringong. Enjoy fresh seafood, explore the vibrant town centre, or simply soak up the ocean breeze. It's the perfect mix of adventure and laid-back charm. Hunter Valley, NSW Under three hours from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine region, and a paradise for food and wine lovers. Spend your days joining wine tastings at iconic cellar doors like Tyrrell's or Brokenwood, then enjoy gourmet food at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants. Don't forget to stroll through the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens, where themed landscapes and seasonal displays make for a relaxing afternoon. Lake Glenbawn, NSW About three hours from Sydney, Lake Glenbawn is a beautiful inland retreat, perfect for anyone who loves a mix of water sports and wide-open countryside. Spend the day fishing or hire a boat to explore hidden coves around the lake. In the evening, gather around the campfire and enjoy some stargazing under the wide country sky. It's the kind of place where you can slow down, unplug, and come back feeling totally refreshed. Hawks Nest, NSW A stone's throw from Jimmys Beach, Hawks Nest is a relaxed coastal spot that feels worlds away from the city. Start your morning with a peaceful walk along Bennett's Beach, it's often quiet and you might even catch dolphins cruising by. Afterwards, head over to nearby Tea Gardens for a laid-back meal or a coffee by the river. It's the kind of place where you can really switch off and slow down, and you'll probably leave wondering why you don't come here more often. Blue Mountains, NSW Approximately two hours from Sydney, the Blue Mountains offer stunning natural beauty, with dramatic cliffs and lush rainforests. Snap a photo at Echo Point lookout for an epic view of the Three Sisters, or explore Scenic World 's cableway and boardwalks for a different perspective of the rainforest and towering cliffs. Spend your days hiking or browsing quaint mountain villages, then cosy up by a fire in the evening. It's the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation. Bowral, NSW Nestled in the Southern Highlands, Bowral is known for its beautiful gardens, boutique shops, and cosy cafes, perfect for a laid-back country weekend. Visit Corbett Gardens (especially stunning during Tulip Time in spring) or explore Dirty Janes for antique and vintage treasures. Grab a coffee and cake at one of Bowral's many welcoming cafes and wander through local produce markets and scenic walking trails – it's all about enjoying the slower pace and country charm.
