The visiting Orlando Magic will look to prolong the Indiana Pacers’ dreadful season on Wednesday afternoon as the teams close out 2025 at Indianapolis.
Just six months removed from being a win away from an NBA championship, the Pacers have the league’s worst record at 6-27 as the close of a roller-coaster year approaches.
Crushing injuries — including Tyrese Haliburton’s torn Achilles in the NBA Finals and Obi Toppin’s foot fracture — have forced Indiana to use 24 players this season.
The Pacers have lost nine consecutive games and a loss on Wednesday would match the franchise’s fifth-longest losing streak over a single season. That mark of futility was set across the final 10 games of the 2021-22 season.
In its most recent game Monday, head coach Rick Carlisle’s group trailed by as many as 28 points before outscoring the Houston Rockets 41-21 in the fourth quarter of a 126-119 road loss. In a woeful campaign, the veteran head coach is looking for small victories.
‘There are some things that are positives throughout games. The problem that we’ve got to tackle is the inconsistency,’ Carlisle said. ‘The middle part of the game (Monday) we were very poor. The fourth quarter was the only quarter we won in the game.
‘As good as it felt to fight back, you’re not going to win games having to fight back every night. It’s a difficult league. A lot of very good teams. Another one on Wednesday.’
Pascal Siakam, who has missed just one game this season, leads the team with 23.4 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Bennedict Mathurin adds 18.3 points and Andrew Nembhard chips in 17.1 with 6.7 assists.
The Magic, who will host the Pacers in a rematch Sunday, is another team searching for consistency as 2026 draws near. Orlando has alternated wins and losses across their last six games and blew a 21-point lead on Monday in a 107-106 road setback against the Toronto Raptors.
Although his team is in the Eastern Conference playoff picture as the regular season’s halfway point nears, Orlando head coach Jamahl Mosley wants to see his group fix a pair of problems ahead of Wednesday’s meeting.
‘It’s been the same thing that’s been kicking our butt for the last five games: offensive rebounds and transition points,’ said Mosley, whose team allowed 21 Toronto offensive boards and was outscored 30-6 in fast break points on Monday.
‘Those are the small details of the game that get you beat in a one-point game.’
Orlando has tried to weather the storm without leading scorer Franz Wagner (22.7 points), who went down with a high-ankle sprain on Dec.7. Jalen Suggs (15.4 points) has missed seven straight games with a left hip contusion.
The Magic are relying on third-year guard Anthony Black, who is averaging career-highs of 15.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.5 assists.
‘Good game or bad game, you’ve got to hop on the plane, go to the next city and flush it,’ Black said. ‘You’ve got to get ready for the next game. It’s a long season.’
“I’m too busy. I’m overloaded. I can’t take on more. I do all this budgeting work, but I never know how things turn out,” Tara, our financial planning and analysis manager, said gently, not quite a complaint, but not quite a mere observation either.
I ignored the first few comments and homed in on the last one.
She’d done two years of budgets but never got to see the actuals. Without feedback she was flying blind and I was the one keeping her there. It made me wonder: What was I doing, repeatedly, that I couldn’t even see?
It reminded me of something former NBA player Iman Shumpert once said about guarding Kobe Bryant.
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Kobe had a pattern: three hard dribbles, then the cross. Shumpert figured it out and started counting it out loud: Three, two, stab. He had him.
But Kobe realized Shumpert was counting his dribbles. Kobe adjusted. Shumpert’s edge was gone.
In my own companies, I was Kobe, playing hero ball. Only I didn’t realize I was dribbling and playing against my team instead of with them. Kobe changed his pattern to stay ahead.
I didn’t even know I had one. I wasn’t playing against defenders. I was keeping my own team from seeing the game.
Information hoarding, masquerading as leadership
I lead companies with a few hundred people. And by nature, I’m private. Need-to-know. Pull information, don’t push it.
I used to think I was protecting the team from distraction and from bad news, but mostly, I was protecting myself. I believed that if something mattered, people would ask. But most of the time, they don’t know what to ask.
A few years ago, before Tara’s complaint finally cut through, I saw what real transparency could look like.
It was in a management meeting at my portfolio company in Seoul.
I had a good conversation with one of my employees from the Seoul company over iced Americanos, the national beverage of South Korea.
Three minutes later, a second employee walked in and started answering the questions I had asked the previous person. Word for word, and in order.
The employees from my portfolio company in Seoul had been texting each other in the gap between meetings. My Korean teammates had demonstrated the perfect information handoff.
It was humbling, and instructive. Information flowed between them like water. I was the one slowing it down. What I thought was control was a constraint.
It was efficient. It was mutual trust. They didn’t need a meeting to align because the team was already in sync. I was building for silence, and they were built for clarity.
What changed for Tara
The week after Seoul, I started sharing our monthly actuals with the broader operating team. Not just the numbers Tara needed for her work, but the whole picture: revenue trends, margin pressures, departmental variances.
Within two weeks, Tara had:
Identified three budget categories where we were consistently over-allocating.
Spotted a vendor contract auto-renewing at inflated rates.
Flagged irregular spending patterns I’d missed.
The complaints stopped. She didn’t need less work. She needed to see the scoreboard.
I used to think I had to be the smartest person in the room when I just needed to stop being the most guarded. Once I started sharing more, especially the ugly stuff, we tightened our margins, caught issues earlier, and found our way to a good exit for investors.
The leadership team could see what I was seeing, and could challenge me, and we both got better for it.
The real cost of hoarding information
When leaders hoard information, we think we’re maintaining competitive advantage. Instead, we’re creating information asymmetry within our own organizations because we have more or better information than our employees.
Your team can’t adjust if they can’t see your pattern. They can’t improve what they can’t measure. They can’t celebrate wins they don’t know happened.
Kobe’s edge came from being unreadable. In business, that was the problem. My edge came when I stopped hiding the scoreboard and let the team play the whole game.
In the past eight weeks, UCF and Oklahoma State have combined for just one win.
This week may be both teams’ last chance for a victory this season when they clash in Orlando on Saturday.
The Cowboys (1-9, 0-7 Big 12) haven’t done much good this season as they fired long-time coach Mike Gundy in September and have yet to beat a FBS squad, dropping nine straight games. Oklahoma State is one of two teams in the bottom six nationally in scoring offense and scoring defense.
Oklahoma State had a promising outing last week against Kansas State, trailing 7-6 entering the fourth quarter. But Zane Flores threw two interceptions, including one in the fourth quarter when Oklahoma State was at the Kansas State 27, in what became a 14-6 loss.
‘You do all the things necessary to get down there and then you turn it over, you’re not going to beat too many teams doing that,’ said interim coach Doug Meacham on Monday. ‘ … But I’m proud on a lot of levels, about a lot of different things, and wish that we could find a way to break through.’
The Knights (4-6, 1-6) continued to struggle offensively in their 48-9 loss at No. 6 Texas Tech Saturday. UCF was held under 300 yards for the third straight game as the defense allowed a third consecutive 400-yard game.
Quarterback Tayven Jackson struggled, passing for just 178 yards, the fifth time in his last six games he’s thrown for fewer than 200.
Backup Davi Belfort saw some game action, but mostly was used as a threat on the ground. He had 36 rushing yards against Houston two weeks ago and had four yards with no passes attempted against the Red Raiders.
Coach Scott Frost alluded that he may give Belfort more opportunities and use him more to mix UCF’s offense up.
‘Davi will continue to improve in everything he does as he gets more reps,’ Frost said Monday. ‘It hasn’t been completely fair to him to put him in the situation he’s in without having gotten a lot of reps over the course of this year … but Davi is capable of running our whole offense.’
The Knights beat the Cowboys the last time they matched up, a 45-3 romp in 2023.
Pitt and UCF — a pair of promising four-win teams — square off in the annual Legends Classic on Thursday in Daytona Beach, Fla.
The event enters its 19th season with the Panthers (4-1) and Knights (4-1) in the showcase game. Pitt claimed Legends Classic titles in 2013 and 2008.
The last time the teams met was in the first round of the 2004 NCAA Tournament, when Pitt prevailed 53-44.
It figures to be a competitive matchup, as Pitt and UCF feature a clash of styles: Pitt’s stingy defense limited Bucknell to 13 total field goals on Monday, while UCF averaged 89 points across its opening five contests thanks to 47.7% shooting (51 of 107) from 3-point range.
UCF defeated visiting Oakland 87-83 on Monday as transfer guard Riley Kugel had 18 points to surpass 1,000 for his career. The former Florida Gator and Mississippi State Bulldog has helped fuel UCF’s long-range shooting with 16 made 3-pointers in 28 attempts.
‘We’re not worried about any game in the past,’ Knights coach Johnny Dawkins said following the latest victory. ‘These games are over and we’ll take the lessons we’ve learned from the games that we’ve competed (in) and try to get better the next time we go out on the court. We know we’re going to face another tough test.
‘Our mindset needs to be one in which we’re focused solely on Pitt and not anything else that’s around us. Just focus on what’s in front of us and prepare for them.’
One Pitt player the Knights will have to prepare for is Cameron Corhen. The 6-foot-10 senior is not only shooting 62.5% from the floor and scoring 14 points per game, but he also is averaging 9.8 rebounds, punctuated by a career-high 13 against Longwood on Nov. 7.
The Panthers blitzed Bucknell 84-50 as South Alabama transfer Barry Dunning Jr. scored 23 points in 278 minutes off the bench. He shot 7 of 11 from 3-point range.
UCF coach Jeff Capel was pleased to see his team’s response after a lopsided setback at rival West Virginia four days earlier.
‘I think it’s just important to have this performance coming off of a loss,’ Capel said postgame Monday. ‘As a coach, you don’t know how you’re going to respond when you come off of a loss, especially when you come off of a (71-49) loss like that. It’s a rivalry, we did not play well (and) we didn’t play anywhere like we’re capable of playing.’
Even before the first bogus ‘back spasms’ show up on an injury report, it’s already the Year of Barely-Walking Wounded in the NBA.
Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard and Fred VanVleet are missing more than the season-opener next week. They’re done for the year.
Optimistic fans are counting the days to the returns of Jayson Tatum, Tyler Herro, Dejounte Murray and Kyrie Irving, but that requires more than fingers and toes. And LeBron James is finally acting his age, leaving open to guesswork when he might debut this season.
De’Aaron Fox, Jalen Green, Darius Garland, Keegan Murray, Zach Edey … heck, even T.J. McConnell won’t see the bright lights of Halloween.
Who’s next?
The Thunder begin the season healthy and a healthy choice to repeat as champions. But throw in injury comebacks and expected trades and a lot of rosters could look a whole lot different when teams get serious about their title runs about four months from now.
Here’s where each team will tip off in the Field Level Media season-opening power rankings:
30. Utah Jazz
Nobody got less for more in the exporting of Jordan Clarkson, John Collins and Collin Sexton. Is it any wonder teams are lining up to be Lauri Markkanen’s new employer before Danny Ainge gets sent away as well?
29. Washington Wizards
When CJ McCollum was drafted by the Trail Blazers more than a decade ago, he was brought in to displace Wesley Matthews. In Washington, the bar is much lower: Jordan Poole.
28. Brooklyn Nets
If the NBA adds a fifth quarter for rookies only, move the Nets up about 26 spots.
27. Charlotte Hornets
They say this is now LaMelo Ball’s team, which presumably means terrible shot selection, no defense and a chance this will be A.J. Dybantsa’s team next year.
26. New Orleans Pelicans
More than half of last year’s minutes have disappeared, and another big chunk is likely to be gone as soon as there’s someone atop the 2026 draft projections for whom dealing Zion Williamson in exchange for better lottery odds makes sense.
25. Phoenix Suns
They’re starting over with two guys – Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks – who desperately need a re-start. Fortunately in the stacked West, little is expected … which should buy new coach Jordan Ott a couple of years.
24. Sacramento Kings
They’ve tried hard to trade their misfits, only to be told others desire Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan and Malik Monk even less than they do.
23. Chicago Bulls
They spent all summer telling Josh Giddey just how unvaluable he is; now it’s his turn to show them they were right.
22. Memphis Grizzlies
Having Ja Morant as the face of your franchise is like having Deshaun Watson as your quarterback. A divorce seems likely, but buyer beware.
21. Portland Trail Blazers
The additions of Lillard and Jrue Holiday indicate Chauncey Billups is intent upon making a run at the playoffs next season. With the Kings and Suns sinking in the West, the door isn’t exactly closed this year, either.
20. Atlanta Hawks
Kristaps Porzingis begins his fifth NBA life; most dogs have just one.
19. Philadelphia 76ers
When they get Joel Embiid, Paul George and Tyrese Maxey back … there’s a better chance Erving, Iverson and Barkley suit up together this season.
18. Miami Heat
If this romance thing with A’ja Wilson is serious, maybe a move west is in Bam Adebayo’s future. Sunset-destined Erik Spoelstra would be wise to tag along.
17. Toronto Raptors
There are 15 reasons why they could make the playoffs this season: RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram … and the 12 flawed teams other than the Cavaliers and Knicks against which they will be competing for six spots.
16. Indiana Pacers
Losing Haliburton means more Aaron Nesmith, which is fine. Losing Myles Turner, on the other hand, means more … James Wiseman? Ouch.
15. Milwaukee Bucks
They’ve cornered the market on Antetokounmpos; for the financial sake of the franchise, hopefully there weren’t tariffs attached.
14. Boston Celtics
Tatum has gotten more headlines this preseason than Bad Bunny. Sometimes less is best for all of us.
13. San Antonio Spurs
No pressure, but by Tim Duncan’s third season, the Spurs had already won a championship. That was with Gregg Popovich. Good luck, Mitch Johnson.
12. Detroit Pistons
No Tatum. No Haliburton. No Lillard … no reason the Pistons don’t take another major step north in the Eastern hierarchy.
11. Orlando Magic
1971 … A year without 3-pointers. Also, the number of 3’s missed by a landlocked team that couldn’t throw the ball in the ocean last season. Desmond Bane to the rescue.
10. Los Angeles Clippers
The NBA has a tough call on Kawhi Leonard’s no-show windfall: Penalize the Clippers now and cast a shadow over the All-Star Game host, or penalize them later and risk Leonard sitting out the playoffs. Stay tuned.
9. Los Angeles Lakers
Imagine Christmas Day and Independence Day falling back-to-back. Such is the case in Slovenia, where if Luka Doncic weighs in at 180 on Dec. 27, it’s kilograms, not pounds.
8. Dallas Mavericks
The Western champs of two years ago have since added Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg, while losing Doncic. That’s a big-time net positive.
7. Golden State Warriors
The last time Draymond Green didn’t like a cocky young teammate, he punched Jordan Poole. Until Jonathan Kuminga gets traded, Al Horford isn’t the Warrior to watch.
6. Minnesota Timberwolves
The Cavaliers of the West: You might not want to believe Anthony Edwards is a star and the Timberwolves are a serious contender, but he is and they are.
5. Houston Rockets
They finished the regular season ahead of teams like the Warriors, Lakers and Clippers last year for one reason – they rested fewer old men. Even with Kevin Durant, why would this year be any different?
4. New York Knicks
You know the old saying: Defense wins championships … unless you don’t win championships, in which case the coach gets fired. The Mike Brown/Jordan Clarkson version should be more fun.
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
They saw the value of busting their butts to win 64 games last season. They won’t make that mistake again. In the depleted East, they don’t have to this time.
2. Denver Nuggets
Put Cam Johnson in place of Michael Porter Jr. (basically 0-for-the-series) and the Nuggets beat the Thunder last May. Now add Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. as well and a rematch can’t happen soon enough.
1. Oklahoma City Thunder
The last little guy who put his body more in harm’s way than Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was Allen Iverson (797 free throws) in 2008. Note to SGA: Iverson played 25 fewer games the next season.
Danny Jansen belted a two-run homer to pace the Milwaukee Brewers to a 4-2 comeback victory Sunday over the visiting Cincinnati Reds, who clinched their first postseason appearance since 2020 despite the loss.
Elly De La Cruz and TJ Friedl homered for the Reds, who earned a National League wild-card spot due to Sunday’s loss by the New York Mets. It is the Reds’ first postseason berth in a 162-game season since 2013.
As the No. 6 seed in the NL, the Reds begin their best-of-three wild-card series at the third-seeded Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday.
The Brewers, who have home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with the best overall record in the majors, have a bye into the NL Division Series, which begins Saturday. Milwaukee (97-65) set a franchise record for victories in a season with help from Jansen’s blow during a three-run fourth inning.
Marlins 4, Mets 0
Edward Cabrera pitched five scoreless innings as host Miami eliminated New York from playoff contention. Cabrera (8-7) allowed just two hits and worked around five walks.
The Marlins scored four runs off three pitchers in a crucial fourth inning. Reliever Brooks Raley (3-1) started that inning, but it was Ryne Stanek, who allowed RBI doubles to Eric Wagaman and Brian Navarreto.
In the next half inning, the Mets loaded the bases with two outs and Pete Alonso lined a pitch 116 mph, but it found the glove of a leaping left-fielder Javier Sanoja. The game ended with Francisco Lindor (1-for-3, two walks) grounding into a double play.
Red Sox 4, Tigers 3
Boston clinched the No. 5 seed in the American League postseason with a win over visiting Detroit.
Masataka Yoshida and David Hamilton both homered, Ceddanne Rafaela went 2-for-3, and Jarren Duran had the game-winning RBI to lead Boston past Detroit, which will be the No. 6 seed in the AL field after a late-season collapse. Cleveland trailed Detroit by 15 1/2 games in the division race on July 9.
Jose De Leon struck out eight and allowed three runs in a quality start of 6 2/3 innings. He was recalled from Triple-A Worcester before the game for his first MLB appearance since 2023. Tigers starter Chris Paddack pitched 4 1/3 innings in the loss, allowing four runs and seven hits while striking out five.
Yankees 3, Orioles 2
Ben Rice drilled two home runs, including the go-ahead solo shot in the eighth, as host New York defeated Baltimore to tie Toronto for the AL East title.
Yankees starter Luis Gil allowed two runs and three hits over five innings before four relievers each threw one scoreless inning, which included Devin Williams (4-6) in the eighth and David Bednar (27th save) in the ninth. New York, which lost the division tiebreaker, hosts Boston in the best-of-three wild-card series that begins Tuesday.
Jordan Westburg and Gunnar Henderson hit back-to-back homers in the eighth for the Orioles (75-87), who posted their first losing record since 2021. Starter Kyle Bradish allowed two runs over five innings with eight strikeouts while Rico Garcia (0-2) gave up Rice’s second blast.
Blue Jays 13, Rays 4
Alejandro Kirk homered twice, including a grand slam, as host Toronto clinched the American League East, routing Tampa Bay. Kirk also doubled and had six RBIs to help the Blue Jays to their first division title since 2015.
Addison Barger and George Springer added two-run homers. Mason Fluharty (5-2) replaced starter Kevin Gausman in the fifth inning and retired all four batters he faced.
Jonathan Aranda had two hits and three RBIs for the Rays in their final game of the season. Richie Palacios added three hits. Ian Seymour (4-3) allowed six runs and seven hits in 3 1/3 innings.
Padres 12, Diamondbacks 4
Manny Machado homered and Jackson Merrill drove in three as host San Diego swept Arizona to enter the playoffs with seven wins in its final eight regular-season games.
J.P. Sears (9-11) allowed two runs on seven hits over 5 2/3 innings for the Padres, who reeled off five consecutive hits to spark a five-run first inning. Machado, Merrill and Ryan O’Hearn each collected two of the Padres’ 11 hits.
Brandon Pfaadt (13-9) surrendered eight runs (seven earned) and six hits over four-plus innings for the Diamondbacks. Ketel Marte slugged his 28th homer to lead off the game while Geraldo Perdomo drove in his 100th run of the year in the ninth.
Cubs 2, Cardinals 0
Seiya Suzuki homered for the fifth time in four games as host Chicago capped the regular season with a three-game sweep of St. Louis.
Suzuki’s fifth-inning solo shot opened the scoring for the Cubs, who host the San Diego Padres in a best-of-three wild-card series that starts Tuesday. Starter Javier Assad (4-1) posted a season-high six strikeouts while scattering three hits and one walk over 5 1/3 innings. Jordan Wicks fanned four over the last three innings for his first save.
Kyle Leahy allowed just one hit over three innings in his first big-league start before giving way to John King (2-1), who gave up Suzuki’s homer. Thomas Saggese and Victor Scott II posted two hits apiece for the Cardinals (78-84), who closed the season on a four-game slide.
Royals 9, Athletics 2
Mike Yastrzemski homered twice to help visiting Kansas City top the Athletics in the season finale for both teams.
Carter Jensen also homered, singled twice and scored three times, while Michael Massey added four hits, an RBI and two runs scored and Maikel Garcia had two hits, two RBIs and scored a run for the Royals, who won three of their last four to finish with a winning record (82-80). Kansas City starter Cole Ragans blanked the A’s on two hits over 4 1/3 innings, striking out eight, and Daniel Lynch IV (6-2) pitched 2 1/3 innings of hitless relief to earn the win.
Brady Basso (1-1) started for the Athletics and took the loss after allowing one run on three hits over 1 1/3 innings. Nick Kurtz homered for the A’s, who went 13-11 in September to finish with 76 wins.
White Sox 8, Nationals 0
Shane Smith took a perfect game into the sixth inning before combining with three relievers on a one-hitter as visiting Chicago ended its season with a win over Washington.
Brooks Baldwin homered for the second straight game, doubled and drove in three runs for the White Sox. Dominic Fletcher also homered and doubled, and Miguel Vargas added a home run. Smith (7-8) retired the first 16 Nationals before Brady House lined a single to right with one out in the sixth. He allowed one hit over six innings and struck out eight batters without a walk. Chicago (60-102) improved noticeably on its record-setting 2024 campaign, when it went 41-121.
Washington’s Brad Lord (5-10) gave up five runs on five hits over four innings. The Nationals (66-96) suffered its sixth consecutive losing season since winning the 2019 World Series.
Guardians 9, Rangers 8 (10 innings)
Brayan Rocchio hit a three-run home run in the bottom of the 10th inning, completing a four-run rally and lifting American League Central champion Cleveland to a wild win over visiting Texas in the teams’ regular-season finale.
The Guardians will open the best-of-three wild-card round against the Detroit Tigers in Cleveland on Tuesday. Rocchio’s walk-off round-tripper came off the Rangers’ Jose Corniell (0-1), who was making his major league debut with a three-run lead.
Rowdy Tellez had staked the Rangers to an 8-5 cushion with his own three-run shot in the top of the frame. The Guardians’ Bo Naylor doubled home automatic runner George Valera to open the bottom of the 10th, and after a walk to Petey Halpin, Rocchio homered to right field.
Astros 6, Angels 2
Yainer Diaz and Ramon Urias each homered and drove in a pair of runs, propelling visiting Houston to a victory over Los Angeles.
Brice Matthews and Victor Caratini also homered for the Astros, who were eliminated from postseason contention Saturday for the first time since 2016. Starter Lance McCullers Jr. allowed one run on two hits across three innings. Astros reliever Colton Gordon (6-4) then threw five no-hit innings in relief.
Mike Trout homered in his only at-bat for the Angels before Logan O’Hoppe replaced him in the third. Sam Aldegheri (0-2) threw 4 2/3 innings, allowing four runs on seven hits. The Angels (72-90) missed the postseason for the 11th straight year and finished with a losing record for the 10th straight time.
Phillies 2, Twins 1 (10 innings)
Nick Castellanos hit a walk-off sacrifice fly in the 10th inning to lift Philadelphia to a win over visiting Minnesota.
Max Kepler added a solo home run for Philadelphia, which is headed to the postseason after winning the National League East. The Phillies finished with an MLB-best 55-26 mark at home. Ryan Jeffers went 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI to lead Minnesota.
Phillies starter Cristopher Sanchez tossed 5 2/3 scoreless innings and struck out eight. Simeon Woods Richardson struck out nine over six scoreless innings for the Twins.
Giants 4, Rockies 0
Willy Adames hit his 30th home run of the season, Rafael Devers added his 35th and San Francisco, getting a combined shutout from Logan Webb and three relievers, completed a season-ending sweep of visiting Colorado.
Webb (15-11) matched his career high in wins by limiting the Rockies to three hits in 5 1/3 innings while Adames finished off his second straight 30-homer season and Devers reached the 35-homer milestone for the second time. With the win, the Giants (81-81) finished the season at .500.
Brenton Doyle and Hunter Goodman had doubles for Colorado (43-119), which wrapped up the season with six straight defeats. Their 119 losses tied for the third-most in Major League Baseball since 1900.
Braves 4, Pirates 1
Chris Sale pitched 5 2/3 strong innings, Ronald Acuna Jr. provided the offense with a home run and Atlanta closed its season with a win over visiting Pittsburgh.
Sale entered the game with one out in the second inning. He approved the idea of coming out of the bullpen to give 41-year-old veteran Charlie Morton what is expected to be the final start of his career. Morton made his major league debut with the Braves in 2008 and also pitched for Atlanta in 2021-24 before signing with them this week. In his first appearance out of the bullpen since 2012, Sale (7-5) pitched 5 2/3 innings and allowed one run on four hits and two walks with nine strikeouts.
Morton, signed by the Braves after he was released by Detroit, pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings and left after striking out Alexander Canario on a curveball, the signature pitch of Morton’s career. Pirates starter Johan Oviedo (2-1) pitched five innings and allowed two runs on three hits and three walks with three strikeouts. Pittsburgh got its run in the sixth on an RBI single by Joey Bart.
Dodgers 6, Mariners 1
Clayton Kershaw (11-2) pitched 5 1/3 scoreless innings in the final regular-season start of his illustrious 18-year career to lead Los Angeles over host Seattle.
Shohei Ohtani hit his 55th homer of the season — breaking his own franchise record — and Hyeseong Kim and Freddie Freeman also went deep for the National League West champion Dodgers. Los Angeles will be the No. 3 seed in the NL playoffs and will host the Cincinnati Reds in the best-of-three wild-card round that begins Tuesday.
The Mariners’ Bryce Miller (4-6) allowed four runs on five hits over four innings. Eugenio Suarez drove in his squad’s lone run and finished the season with 118 RBIs.
Microsoft is no longer in trouble with the European Commission, at least when it comes to Teams. The commission has accepted the changes and commitments the company made in response to its concerns related to Microsoft’s bundling of its Teams collaboration platform with its other apps. This particular antitrust saga started years ago when Slack filed an antitrust complaint against Microsoft, claiming that it illegally bundled its work chat competitor with the popular Office suite. The commission opened a formal investigation into the matter in 2023 and found in 2024 that Microsoft did indeed violate antitrust laws.
“Microsoft may have granted Teams a distribution advantage by not giving customers the choice whether or not to acquire access to Teams when they subscribe to their SaaS productivity applications,” the commission said at the time. “This advantage may have been further exacerbated by interoperability limitations between Teams’ competitors and Microsoft’s offerings.” The company was facing a fine equivalent to 10 percent of its annual worldwide turnover.
Even before the commission published its preliminary finding, Microsoft already unbundled Teams from Office 365 and Microsoft 365 productivity suites across the European Union. However, the commission found the changes it implemented “insufficient to address its concerns.” So Microsoft made several commitments to avoid a fine, including offering customers in Europe versions of its Office 365 and Microsoft 365 suites without Teams. Those versions are sold at an “appreciably lower price.” The company also committed not to offer discount rates on Teams or on suites with Teams included. Microsoft gave Teams’ competitors “effective interoperability” with some of its products and services, as well, and allowed them to embed Office apps in their own products. In addition, it allowed customers in Europe to extract their Teams messaging data for use in competing services.
The commission tested those commitments between May and June this year. In response to the commission’s test results, Microsoft further increased the price difference between the Microsoft 365 and Office 365 suites with Teams and those without by 50 percent. The company also has to display suites options without Teams if it advertises its suites options with the messaging app. “The commitments offered by Microsoft will remain in force for seven years, except for the commitments related to interoperability and data portability which will remain in force for ten years,” the commission wrote. A trustee will be monitoring Microsoft’s implementation and will be making sure it remains true to its commitments within that timeframe.
Currently, here is the compilation of the most affluent owners of NBA teams.
20. Clay Bennett | Oklahoma City Thunder
Clay Bennett, chairman of the Professional Basketball Club LLC, became the principal owner of the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2008. Under his leadership, the Thunder has emerged as one of the premier franchises in the NBA, known for its player development and community engagement.
Full name: Clayton Ike Bennett
Date of birth: 24th November 1959
Age: 64 years
Place of birth: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Oklahoma City Thunder
Net worth: $400 million
Bennett’s leadership of the Thunder has been transformative. The team’s move from Seattle to Oklahoma City and its subsequent success, including a trip to the NBA Finals in 2012, are testaments to Bennett’s vision and commitment.
His emphasis on fostering a strong team culture and his dedication to the Oklahoma community have made the Thunder a model franchise in the NBA. After a long rebuild, OKC has a respectable team that fought hard in this year’s playoffs and managed to reach the Western Conference semis, where they were eventually knocked out by the Dallas Mavericks.
Personal Insights: Clay Bennett’s leadership with the Oklahoma City Thunder reflects his deep connection to the team’s roots. He values community engagement and the importance of maintaining strong ties to the Oklahoma community.
Quote: “The Thunder represents the heart of Oklahoma. We’re committed to building a team that embodies the resilience and spirit of our community.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with The Oklahoman, Bennett stated, “Oklahoma City is a city with a strong sense of pride, and we want the Thunder to be a source of that pride.”
19. Jeanie Buss | Los Angeles Lakers
Jeanie Buss, daughter of the legendary Jerry Buss, has seamlessly taken over the reins of the iconic Los Angeles Lakers. As one of the most influential women in sports, her leadership has been marked by a deep understanding of the game and a commitment to maintaining the Lakers’ legacy.
Full name: Jeanie Marie Buss
Date of birth: 26th September 1961
Age: 62 years
Place of birth: Santa Monica, California, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Los Angeles Lakers
Net worth: $500 million
Jeanie Buss’s tenure as the Lakers’ owner has seen the team return to its championship-winning ways. Her decision to bring in key figures like LeBron James and Anthony Davis has solidified the Lakers’ position as title contenders. Buss’s leadership style, which emphasizes collaboration and respect, has made her one of the most respected figures in the NBA.
Personal Insights: Jeanie Buss’s ownership of the Los Angeles Lakers reflects her deep understanding of the team’s legacy. She values tradition, collaboration, and the importance of preserving the Lakers’ iconic status.
Quote: “The Lakers are a symbol of excellence, and we’re committed to upholding that legacy. We’re not just a team; we’re a tradition.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Buss stated, “The Lakers are a family, and we want our fans to feel like a part of that family. Our goal is to deliver championship basketball and unforgettable moments.”
18. Vivek Ranadivé | Sacramento Kings
Founder of TIBCO Software became the majority owner of the Sacramento Kings in 2013. With a vision of making the Kings a global brand and a commitment to innovation, Ranadivé’s influence has been transformative.
Full name: Vivek Yeshwant Ranadivé
Date of birth: 7th October 1957
Age: 66 years
Place of birth: Mumbai, India
Nationality: American
Team: Sacramento Kings
Net worth: $700 million
Under Ranadivé’s leadership, the Kings have embraced a forward-thinking approach, from investing in analytics to building the state-of-the-art Golden 1 Center. His global perspective and emphasis on community engagement have redefined the Kings’ brand, positioning them as one of the most innovative teams in the NBA.
Personal Insights: Vivek Ranadivé’s leadership with the Sacramento Kings is marked by innovation and a global perspective. He values the importance of technology and community engagement.
Quote: “The Kings are more than just a basketball team; they’re a platform for innovation. We’re connecting with fans locally and globally.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with the Sacramento Bee, Ranadivé stated, “Sacramento is a vibrant community, and we’re determined to make the Kings a source of pride for the city.”
17. Glen Taylor | Minnesota Timberwolves
Glen Taylor, a self-made billionaire who started his journey in the printing business, has been at the helm of the Minnesota Timberwolves since 1994. His tenure has seen the team go through various phases, but his commitment to the Wolves has never wavered. In 2024, the Wolves reached the Western Conference Finals, which was their biggest success in years.
Full name: Glen A. Taylor
Date of birth: 20th April 1941
Age: 83 years
Place of birth: Springfield, Minnesota, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Minnesota Timberwolves
Net worth: $2.9 billion
Taylor’s leadership of the Timberwolves has been marked by a deep commitment to the Minnesota community. While the team has faced its challenges on the court, Taylor’s dedication to building a competitive roster and enhancing the fan experience remains unwavering. His recent efforts to revamp the team’s front office and coaching staff signal a new era for the Wolves.
Personal Insights: Glen Taylor’s leadership with the Minnesota Timberwolves is characterized by his strong sense of loyalty and commitment to the team. He values patience and believes in the power of building a winning culture from the ground up.
Quote: “Success with the Timberwolves is not just about immediate results; it’s about laying the foundation for lasting success. We’re building a team for the long haul.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with Star Tribune, Taylor stated, “Minnesota is home, and the Timberwolves are a reflection of the state’s spirit. We’re working to create a team that Minnesotans can be proud of.”
16. Ted Leonsis | Washington Wizards
Ted Leonsis, a tech industry titan and founder of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, has been the guiding force behind the Washington Wizards since 2010. His emphasis on community, innovation, and fan engagement has redefined the Wizards’ brand in the modern NBA era.
Full name: Theodore John Leonsis
Date of birth: 8th January 1957
Age: 67 years
Place of birth: Brooklyn, New York, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Washington Wizards
Net worth: $3.1 billion
Leonsis’s tenure with the Wizards has been marked by a commitment to building a competitive team and enhancing the overall fan experience. His investments in the team’s infrastructure, including the state-of-the-art Capital One Arena, and his focus on community initiatives have solidified the Wizards’ place in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Personal Insights: Ted Leonsis’s ownership of the Washington Wizards reflects his commitment to innovation and fan engagement. He values transparency and building a strong community.
Quote: “The Wizards are more than just a team; they’re a source of inspiration for Washington, D.C. We’re investing in the future and delivering exciting basketball.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with The Washington Post, Leonsis stated, “Washington, D.C. is a diverse and passionate city, and we’re working to make the Wizards a reflection of its spirit.”
15. Wes Edens | Milwaukee Bucks
Under the leadership of Wes Edens, the Milwaukee Bucks experienced significant achievements and growth. Edens, who acquired a stake in the team in 2014, played a pivotal role in transforming the franchise. Under his co-ownership, the Bucks won the NBA championship in 2021, marking their first title in 50 years.
Full name: Marc Lasry
Date of birth: 30th October, 1961
Age: 62 years
Place of birth: Helena, Montana
Nationality: American
Team: Milwaukee Bucks
Net worth: $3.3 billion
Edens was instrumental in the development of the Fiserv Forum, the team’s state-of-the-art arena, which has bolstered both team performance and fan engagement. His leadership extended beyond the court, emphasizing a positive work culture and strategic investments that have elevated the Bucks to a prominent position in the NBA.
Personal Insights: Edens’ leadership with the Milwaukee Bucks reflects his willingness to adapt and innovate. He values the importance of analytics and building a winning team with a global perspective.
Quote: “What I want to do is see things for what they are, not how other people see them.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview Wes Edens stated, “Guys in Philly want to talk about the process, I’d rather talk about the results.”
14. Mark Cuban | Dallas Mavericks
Mark Cuban, the charismatic entrepreneur, and Shark Tank star is perhaps one of the most recognizable NBA owners. His passion for the game and his team, the Dallas Mavericks, is palpable every time he’s courtside, cheering, and sometimes even arguing calls with referees.
Full name: Mark Cuban
Date of birth: 31st July 1958
Age: 66 years
Place of birth: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Dallas Mavericks
Net worth: $5.4 billion
Cuban’s tenure as the Mavericks’ owner has been marked by innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Under his watch, the Mavs secured their first NBA championship in 2011, led by Dirk Nowitzki. Cuban’s forward-thinking approach, be it in embracing analytics or in player welfare, has made the Mavericks a model franchise in the NBA.
Mavericks came real close to winning another championship in 2024. However, they lost to Boston Celtics in the Finals, and will look to bounce back in the upcoming season.
Personal Insights: Mark Cuban’s ownership of the Dallas Mavericks reflects his entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to challenge the status quo. He values transparency and fan engagement.
Quote: “The Mavericks are a platform for innovation. We’re embracing technology and analytics to build a team that competes at the highest level.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with ESPN, Cuban stated, “Owning the Mavs is a constant learning experience. We’re here to disrupt, innovate, and, of course, win.”
13. Gayle Benson | New Orleans Pelicans
Gayle Benson, after the passing of her husband Tom Benson, took over the reins of the New Orleans Pelicans. As one of the few female owners in the NBA, her leadership has been marked by resilience, community engagement, and a commitment to excellence.
Full name: Gayle Marie LaJaunie Bird Benson
Date of birth: 26th January 1947
Age: 77 years
Place of birth: New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: New Orleans Pelicans
Net worth: $6.1 billion
Gayle Benson’s stewardship of the Pelicans has been commendable. With a focus on community engagement, she has ensured that the team remains an integral part of New Orleans’ fabric. The drafting of young superstar Zion Williamson and the team’s ongoing development under her watch signal exciting times ahead for Pelicans fans.
Personal Insights: Gayle Benson’s leadership with the New Orleans Pelicans reflects her dedication to maintaining the team’s place in the heart of New Orleans. She values community and unity.
Quote: “The Pelicans are a source of pride for New Orleans. We’re investing in the team and our community to create a brighter future.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with NOLA.com, Benson stated, “New Orleans is a unique city, and we want the Pelicans to be a reflection of its spirit and resilience.”
12. Micky Arison | Miami Heat
Micky Arison, the chairman of Carnival Corporation, the world’s largest cruise operator, has been steering the Miami Heat with the same precision he manages his fleet of cruise ships. Under his leadership, the Heat has seen some of its most glorious moments, including multiple NBA championships.
Full name: Micky Meir Arison
Date of birth: 29th June 1949
Age: 75 years
Place of birth: Tel Aviv, Israel
Nationality: American-Israeli
Team: Miami Heat
Net worth: $8.4 billion
Micky Arison’s leadership of the Miami Heat has been nothing short of legendary. With Pat Riley at the helm and stars like Dwyane Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh gracing the court, the Arison era has been golden for the Heat. His business strategies, combined with a deep passion for basketball, have made the Miami Heat a force to reckon with in the NBA.
Personal Insights: Micky Arison’s leadership with the Miami Heat is marked by a strong sense of loyalty and family. He values consistency and stability, evident in his long-standing commitment to the team.
Quote: “The Heat is more than just a team; it’s a family. We’re dedicated to maintaining the Heat culture and delivering championship basketball to our fans.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with the Miami Herald, Arison stated, “Winning is in our DNA. It’s not just about the trophies; it’s about the journey and the passion we bring to every game.”
11. Joe Tsai | Brooklyn Nets
Joe Tsai, co-founder of the e-commerce giant Alibaba, brought his global perspective to the NBA when he became the owner of the Brooklyn Nets. With a vision of making the Nets a global brand, Tsai’s influence has been transformative.
Full name: Joseph Chung-Hsin Tsai
Date of birth: 1st January 1964
Age: 60 years
Place of birth: Taipei, Taiwan
Nationality: Taiwanese-Canadian
Team: Brooklyn Nets
Net worth: $8.7 billion
Tsai’s ownership has seen the Brooklyn Nets rise to prominence, especially with the acquisition of superstars like Kevin Durant and James Harden. However, this Superteam failed to capitalize and win championships.
Personal Insights: Joe Tsai brings a global perspective to the Brooklyn Nets, emphasizing diversity and inclusivity. He values the power of sports in uniting people across borders.
Quote: “The Nets are more than a team; they’re a bridge between cultures. We’re building a global brand that resonates with fans worldwide.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with CNBC, Tsai stated, “Owning the Nets is a privilege. We’re committed to delivering an exciting brand of basketball to Brooklyn and beyond.”
10. Tilman Fertitta | Houston Rockets
Tilman Fertitta, a self-made billionaire, is known for his ventures in the hospitality industry. His acquisition of the Houston Rockets showcased his passion for sports and his commitment to bringing success to the team.
Tilman Fertitta’s net worth is an impressive $7.9 billion. He owns the Golden Nugget Casinos and Landry’s, Inc. His business acumen is evident in his ventures, and his ownership of the Rockets has been marked by significant investments in the team’s success.
Personal Insights: Tilman Fertitta is known for his hands-on approach to team management. He values a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit, which he brings from his business ventures to the Rockets.
Quote: “Success in business and in sports requires a hunger to win. We’re not here to participate; we’re here to win championships.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with CNBC, Fertitta stated, “Owning the Rockets is a dream come true. We’re focused on delivering an exciting brand of basketball to Houston fans and competing at the highest level.”
9. Joshua Harris | Philadelphia 76ers
Private equity titan Joshua Harris co-founded Apollo Global Management and brought his financial acumen to the Philadelphia 76ers. Since acquiring the team, Harris has been instrumental in its resurgence, making the 76ers a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference.
Full name: Joshua J. Harris
Date of birth: 12th February 1965
Age: 59 years
Place of birth: Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Philadelphia 76ers
Net worth: $8.9 billion
Under Harris’s ownership, the 76ers have embraced the “Trust the Process” mantra, which has seen them draft young talents like Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. Harris’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team is evident, and Philly fans have every reason to be optimistic about the future.
Personal Insights: Joshua Harris brings his financial acumen to the 76ers, but his leadership style is also marked by a dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and growth within the team.
Quote: “The 76ers are a symbol of resilience and determination. We’re investing in the future and working to create a winning legacy.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with Bloomberg, Harris stated, “Philadelphia is a city of champions, and we’re committed to delivering another championship to this passionate fan base.”
8. Robert Pera | Memphis Grizzlies
Robert Pera is the founder and CEO of Ubiquiti Networks, a wireless equipment manufacturer. His involvement in the NBA began with his purchase of the Memphis Grizzlies, and he has since been a significant figure in the league.
Full name: Robert J. Pera
Date of birth: 10th March 1978
Age: 46 years
Place of birth: United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Memphis Grizzlies
Net worth: $9.1 billion
With a net worth of $16.1 billion, Robert Pera is one of the youngest and wealthiest NBA owners. His business ventures outside the NBA have been successful, and his commitment to the Memphis Grizzlies has been evident in the team’s performance and management.
Personal Insights: Robert Pera is known for his hands-on approach to team management. He values innovation and is open to adopting unconventional strategies to achieve success, both on and off the court.
Quote: “In the tech world, you have to adapt quickly to stay competitive. The same applies to the NBA. We’re constantly exploring new ways to enhance the fan experience and improve our performance.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with ESPN, Pera stated, “Owning the Grizzlies is not just a business venture; it’s a passion. We want to build a team that Memphians can be proud of.”
7. Tom Gores | Detroit Pistons
Tom Gores, founder of the private equity firm Platinum Equity, has been the driving force behind the Detroit Pistons since he acquired the team in 2011. With a keen business sense and a passion for revitalizing the Motor City, Gores has been instrumental in the Pistons’ recent endeavors.
Full name: Tom Gores
Date of birth: 31st July 1964
Age: 60 years
Place of birth: Nazareth, Israel
Nationality: American
Team: Detroit Pistons
Net worth: $9.1 billion
Under Gores’ leadership, the Pistons have made significant strides both on and off the court. His commitment to Detroit’s community is evident in the team’s move back to downtown Detroit with the state-of-the-art Little Caesars Arena. With a focus on building a competitive team and enhancing fan experience, Gores has reinvigorated the Pistons’ legacy.
Personal Insights: Tom Gores’ leadership with the Detroit Pistons emphasizes a deep commitment to the city of Detroit. He values community engagement and revitalizing the Motor City.
Quote: “The Pistons are a symbol of Detroit’s resilience. We’re investing in the team and the community to create a brighter future.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with Detroit Free Press, Gores stated, “Detroit has a rich sports history, and we’re working to add another chapter to it with the Pistons.”
6. Ann Walton Kroenke | Denver Nuggets
Source: Getty
Ann Walton Kroenke, an heir to the Walmart fortune, is a significant figure in the sports industry. Along with her husband, Stan Kroenke, she owns multiple sports teams, with the Denver Nuggets being one of their prized possessions.
Full name: Ann Walton Kroenke
Date of birth: 18th December 1948
Age: 75 years
Place of birth: United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Denver Nuggets
Net worth: $10.9 billion
With a net worth of $10.9 billion, Ann Walton Kroenke is one of the wealthiest women in sports. Apart from the Nuggets, the Kroenke family owns teams like the Los Angeles Rams, Colorado Rapids, Colorado Avalanche, and the Arsenal Football Club. Their influence in the sports world is vast, and their commitment to excellence is evident in the performance of their teams.
Personal Insights: Ann Walton Kroenke’s leadership style is characterized by a commitment to excellence and a global perspective. She values teamwork and collaboration, both within her sports portfolio and her business ventures.
Quote: “Sports have the power to unite people from all walks of life. We want the Nuggets to represent the best of Denver and inspire the next generation of athletes.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with The Denver Post, Kroenke stated, “The Nuggets are a source of pride for Colorado. We’re dedicated to building a championship team and giving back to the community.”
5. Antony Ressler | Atlanta Hawks
Antony Ressler, co-founder of the private equity firm Ares Management, took over the Atlanta Hawks in 2015. With a keen eye for business and a passion for basketball, Ressler has been instrumental in the Hawks’ resurgence in recent years.
Full name: Antony P. Ressler
Date of birth: 16th July 1959
Age: 65 years
Place of birth: Washington, D.C., United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Atlanta Hawks
Net worth: $11.3 billion
Under Ressler’s ownership, the Hawks have undergone a significant transformation. The team’s recent success in the playoffs, led by young star Trae Young, is a testament to Ressler’s vision and commitment. Off the court, his focus on community engagement and fan experience has redefined the Hawks’ brand, making them one of the most exciting teams in the Eastern Conference.
Personal Insights: Antony Ressler’s leadership with the Atlanta Hawks reflects his commitment to innovation and fan engagement. He values teamwork and the importance of building a strong organization from top to bottom.
Quote: “The Hawks are more than just a basketball team; they’re a source of inspiration for Atlanta. We’re investing in the future and building a winning culture.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Ressler stated, “Atlanta is a city with a rich sports history, and we’re working to make the Hawks a central part of that history.”
4. Matt Ishbia | Phoenix Suns
Matt Ishbia’s tenure as the owner of the Phoenix Suns has been marked by significant changes and high-profile decisions. On February 7, 2023, Mat Ishbia completed the purchase of the Phoenix Suns and the Phoenix Mercury, taking over from the previous owner, Robert Sarver, after receiving approval from the NBA Board of Governors.
Full name: Mathew Randall Ishbia
Date of birth: 6th January 1980
Age: 44
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Phoenix Suns
Net Worth: 12 billion
Ishbia has expressed ambitions beyond basketball, such as his interest in bringing an NHL team back to Arizona, indicating a vision for broader sports investment in the region. Under his leadership, the Suns traded for star player Bradley Beal, reflecting an aggressive approach to strengthening the team.
Personal Insights: Ishbia’s ownership began with a series of swift changes, including the firing of the Suns’ coach Frank Vogel after just one season, which drew significant attention and some criticism.
Quote: “You can’t win without happy people. You can’t win unless your people care. You can’t do anything without people caring and being happy.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview for Cronkite News, Ishbia stated the following: “The narrative that the house is burning is incorrect. The Phoenix Suns are doing great. Excellent. Not as good as we want to be, but we are in a great place.”
3. Jody Allen | Portland Trail Blazers
Jody Allen, sister of Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, is the owner of the Portland Trail Blazers. Her vast wealth is not just from the NBA but also from her inheritance and other business ventures.
Full name: Jo Lynn Allen
Date of birth: 1959
Age: 65 years
Place of birth: Seattle, Washington, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Portland Trail Blazers
Net worth: $20.3 billion
Jody Allen’s net worth stands at an impressive $20.3 billion. Apart from the Trail Blazers, she also owns the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks. Her business acumen and dedication to sports make her one of the most influential figures in the NBA.
Personal Insights: Jody Allen’s leadership style reflects her commitment to maintaining her late brother Paul Allen’s legacy. She places a strong emphasis on sustainability and philanthropy, aligning the team’s values with broader social and environmental goals.
Quote: “The Trail Blazers are not just a basketball team; they are a force for good in our community. We want to win, but we also want to make a difference.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with The Oregonian, Jody Allen stated, “Paul’s love for the Blazers was deep, and I am honored to continue his legacy. Our focus is on building a championship-caliber team and creating lasting positive change.”
2. Daniel Gilbert | Cleveland Cavaliers
Daniel Gilbert, the co-founder of Quicken Loans, America’s largest mortgage lender, is a prominent figure in both the business and sports worlds. His ownership of the Cleveland Cavaliers has been marked by significant investments in the team and the community.
Full name: Daniel Gilbert
Date of birth: 17th January 1962
Age: 62 years
Place of birth: Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
Nationality: American
Team: Cleveland Cavaliers
Net worth: $31.1 billion
Daniel Gilbert’s net worth is a commendable $15.7 billion. Apart from his ventures in the mortgage industry, he has diversified his portfolio with investments in various sectors, including the tech industry with StockX, an online sneaker sale platform. His commitment to the Cavaliers and the city of Cleveland is evident in his community initiatives and the team’s success.
Personal Insights: Daniel Gilbert is known for his resilience and commitment to the city of Cleveland. He values loyalty and hard work, traits that have shaped his leadership style with the Cavaliers.
Quote: “Cleveland is a city of champions, and we’re committed to keeping that legacy alive. We want to bring more championships to this great city.”
Interview Excerpt: In an interview with The Plain Dealer, Gilbert stated, “Owning the Cavs is a dream come true. We’re focused on building a championship culture and making a positive impact in Northeast Ohio.”
Do you see yourself as more of a “trader” or a “hero?” Learn about these two distinct mindsets, and understand how balancing moral duty and economic ambition can lead to a more harmonious and sustainable future for humanity.
The hero mindset vs. the trader mindset are two distinct ways people see their roles and responsibilities in a healthy society.
Each one focuses on different values and priorities, but a balance of both is often needed for a society to function and flourish.
Here’s an outline of what defines each mindset.
Trader Mindset
The trader mindset dominates our current culture. It places emphasis on individualism, material gain, and personal freedom. This mentality often asks, “What can life give me?” and is driven by the pursuit of happiness, pleasure, and profit.
It’s especially characteristic of American life and contemporary Western thinking, where people tend to see their value only in terms of economic or material output: “What do you do for a living? How much money do you make? How big is your house?”
Key attributes of the trader mindset include:
Rights-Oriented: The trader mindset focuses on personal rights and freedoms, operating on the principle of doing what one wants as long as it doesn’t harm others.
Materialism: The trader mindset is materialistic and money-driven, placing a high value on comfort, pleasure, and luxury.
Individualism: The trader mindset is competitive, individualistic, and often sees life as a series of transactions aimed at maximizing personal advantage rather than collective well-being.
Utilitarian Approach: They adopt a business-minded and utilitarian perspective, often focusing on what is pragmatic and realistic, rater than engaging in abstract and idealistic goals.
Status Climbing: Traders often strive for increased status, wealth, or power, engaging in frequent social comparison, and viewing most aspects of life as a social ladder to climb.
The trader mindset is a product of liberal and Enlightenment philosophy, reflecting the values of individual rights and free market capitalism. It promotes a “mind your own business” attitude which emphasizes personal freedom and the pursuit of happiness, but can also lack a sense of social duty.
In excess, the trader mindset can lead to negative behaviors such as excessive swindling, grifting, corruption, and fraudulent schemes. People become willing to seek material gain at any moral cost, believing that everyone is inherently greedy and selfish, thus creating a “dog eat dog” world.
Hero Mindset
The hero mindset is less common and in many ways it’s more needed in our current society.
The heroic mindset is characterized by a focus on duty, sacrifice, and the greater good. Those with this mentality often ask, “What can I give to life?” rather than “What can life give me?” This approach emphasizes responsibilities over rights and prioritizes the well-being of others over personal gain.
Key attributes of the hero mindset include:
Duties-Oriented: Heroes feel a strong sense of duty and responsibility toward others and society. They ask themselves how they can best serve their family, community, nation, or humanity as a whole.
Idealism: The hero mindset seeks higher ideals than just status or wealth, such as honor, loyalty, and devotion to a higher purpose, striving to do what is right at all costs, even if it means facing death.
Collectivism: The hero mindset is communitarian-minded, often emerging in contexts like the military, team sports, or tight-knit organizations where serving a greater whole is paramount.
Warrior Spirit: Heroes embrace challenges and are willing to sacrifice their comfort and security for the common good, embodying a warrior mindset that values moral and spiritual achievements over material ones. The hero isn’t afraid to ask, “What am I willing to die for?”
Leadership and Accountability: Heroes are willing to stand up and take charge when no one else will. This means assuming leadership roles and taking risks, as well as accepting blame and responsibility when things go wrong.
In essence, the heroic mindset is about fighting for something greater than oneself.
Heroes can take many different forms. It’s not only about sacrificing yourself on a battlefield or saving a child from a burning house. Being a hero can also mean dedicating your life to a social cause, being a leader in your local community, taking care of your family, or creating more beauty in the world through art or music.
While the heroic mindset can lead to noble actions, in excess it can also result in zealotry, self-destructive martyrdom, or an inflexible approach to moral issues. Extreme idealism might push individuals to pursue their goals without considering practical consequences, potentially leading to conflict and alienation.
Balancing the Mindsets
Ultimately, both the hero and trader mindsets offer valuable insights into different motivations behind our behaviors and life choices. While the heroic mindset emphasizes sacrifice, duty, and the greater good, the trader mindset focuses on personal gain, freedom, and material success.
A healthy and sustainable society needs both traders and heroes. A society run solely by traders may prioritize profit over moral values, leading to widespread corruption and a lack of social responsibility. On the other hand, a society with only a heroic mindset might struggle with practicality and flexibility, leading to social conflicts and unrest.
Striking a balance between these mindsets can help us achieve a harmonious approach to personal fulfillment and social responsibility, creating a society that values both individual rights and communal well-being.
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Alec Baldwin’s trial in the shooting of a cinematographer begins Tuesday with the selection of jurors who will be tasked with deciding whether the actor is guilty of involuntary manslaughter.Getting chosen to serve in a trial of such a major star accused of such a major crime would be unusual even in Los Angeles or Baldwin’s hometown of New York. But it will be essentially an unheard-of experience for those who are picked as jurors in Santa Fe, New Mexico, though in recent years the state has increasingly become a hub of Hollywood production.Baldwin and his wife Hilaria arrived at the courthouse Tuesday with their youngest child, Ilaria Catalina Irena Baldwin. The couple have seven children, ranging in ages from 1 to 10.Baldwin, 66, could get up to 18 months in prison if jurors unanimously decide to convict him. The jurors are tasked with deciding whether Baldwin committed the felony when, during a rehearsal in October 2021, a revolver went off while he was pointing it at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza. They were on the set of the Western film “Rust,” at Bonanza Creek Ranch some 18 miles from where the trial is being held.Baldwin has said the gun fired accidentally after he followed instructions to point it toward Hutchins, who was behind the camera. Unaware that the gun contained a live round, Baldwin said he pulled back the hammer — not the trigger — and it fired.The star of “30 Rock” and “The Hunt for Red October” made his first appearance in the courtroom on Monday, when Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, in a significant victory for the defense, ruled at a pretrial hearing that Baldwin’s role as a co-producer on “Rust” isn’t relevant to the trial.On Tuesday, 79 people will be questioned and narrowed down. “It’s a process where both sides get to ask really specific questions of jurors,” John Day, a legal expert with sister station KOAT, said.He added, questions will come after some extensive research by both the prosecution and the defense.”Like, looked up their social media posts to see if they’ve said anything about this trial, or about guns in general, or Alec Baldwin in particular,” Day said.Candidates will also be grouped up in a 50-minute selection to ensure a faster process. Something that differed from Hannah Gutierrez-Reed’s trial. Twelve jurors and four alternates were selected in her case.”They were feeling pretty strongly that she had one job, and she didn’t do it,” Day said. “Her job was to make sure that there was no live ammunition on the set and that the guns didn’t have anything that was going to hurt someone.”That means finding the perfect juror will be key in a limited amount of time. “The ultimate juror is someone who can say, ‘I might know about the case, but I don’t have an opinion,’” Day said.However, certain ideas may be favored.For the prosecutions, the team will be looking closely at gun safety.”You’re going to want people on the jury who are familiar with gun safety issues, right?” Day said. “Who knows about gun safety, and who is going to be skeptical of somebody pointing a gun at someone without knowing what’s in it.”As for the defense, attorneys will closely look at movie set protocols.”You’re going to want people who would agree that a film is not like real life,” he said. “That if you’re an actor on a film set and someone hands you a gun and says it’s safe, there’s no reason to think otherwise.”But each side can only reject a certain number of potential jurors. “People that can kick off or they can say, ‘we’re not going to take that person for this reason,’” Day said. “It’s a process of narrowing down a large pool into a much smaller pool of jurors and alternates.”Jury selection will begin Tuesday morning at the Santa Fe County Courthouse. Opening statements are expected Wednesday.The Associated Press contributed to this report.
SANTA FE, N.M. —
Alec Baldwin’s trial in the shooting of a cinematographer begins Tuesday with the selection of jurors who will be tasked with deciding whether the actor is guilty of involuntary manslaughter.
Getting chosen to serve in a trial of such a major star accused of such a major crime would be unusual even in Los Angeles or Baldwin’s hometown of New York. But it will be essentially an unheard-of experience for those who are picked as jurors in Santa Fe, New Mexico, though in recent years the state has increasingly become a hub of Hollywood production.
Baldwin and his wife Hilaria arrived at the courthouse Tuesday with their youngest child, Ilaria Catalina Irena Baldwin. The couple have seven children, ranging in ages from 1 to 10.
Baldwin, 66, could get up to 18 months in prison if jurors unanimously decide to convict him. The jurors are tasked with deciding whether Baldwin committed the felony when, during a rehearsal in October 2021, a revolver went off while he was pointing it at cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, killing her and wounding director Joel Souza. They were on the set of the Western film “Rust,” at Bonanza Creek Ranch some 18 miles from where the trial is being held.
Baldwin has said the gun fired accidentally after he followed instructions to point it toward Hutchins, who was behind the camera. Unaware that the gun contained a live round, Baldwin said he pulled back the hammer — not the trigger — and it fired.
The star of “30 Rock” and “The Hunt for Red October” made his first appearance in the courtroom on Monday, when Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer, in a significant victory for the defense, ruled at a pretrial hearing that Baldwin’s role as a co-producer on “Rust” isn’t relevant to the trial.
On Tuesday, 79 people will be questioned and narrowed down.
“It’s a process where both sides get to ask really specific questions of jurors,” John Day, a legal expert with sister station KOAT, said.
He added, questions will come after some extensive research by both the prosecution and the defense.
“Like, [they may have] looked up their social media posts to see if they’ve said anything about this trial, or about guns in general, or Alec Baldwin in particular,” Day said.
Candidates will also be grouped up in a 50-minute selection to ensure a faster process.
Something that differed from Hannah Gutierrez-Reed’s trial. Twelve jurors and four alternates were selected in her case.
“They were feeling pretty strongly that she had one job, and she didn’t do it,” Day said. “Her job was to make sure that there was no live ammunition on the set and that the guns didn’t have anything that was going to hurt someone.”
That means finding the perfect juror will be key in a limited amount of time.
“The ultimate juror is someone who can say, ‘I might know about the case, but I don’t have an opinion,’” Day said.
However, certain ideas may be favored.
For the prosecutions, the team will be looking closely at gun safety.
“You’re going to want people on the jury who are familiar with gun safety issues, right?” Day said. “Who knows about gun safety, and who is going to be skeptical of somebody pointing a gun at someone without knowing what’s in it.”
As for the defense, attorneys will closely look at movie set protocols.
“You’re going to want people who would agree that a film is not like real life,” he said. “That if you’re an actor on a film set and someone hands you a gun and says it’s safe, there’s no reason to think otherwise.”
But each side can only reject a certain number of potential jurors.
“People that [the teams] can kick off or [that] they can say, ‘we’re not going to take that person for this reason,’” Day said. “It’s a process of narrowing down a large pool into a much smaller pool of jurors and alternates.”
Jury selection will begin Tuesday morning at the Santa Fe County Courthouse. Opening statements are expected Wednesday.
The owners of Celeste, the celebrated River North nightclub, have teamed up with the co-founder of another neighborhood lynchpin (Rockit Bar & Grill, which closed in 2019), to open a new restaurant and bar with upscale Mexican food later this summer.
It’s called Vela — it’s replacing Hogsalt’s 3 Greens Market at 352 W. Hubbard Street, in the shadow of East Bank Club — and will feature dishes like pork belly with mole, a pibil made with Iberican pork collar, and a tlacoyo stuffed with mushrooms and salsa. Tortillas will be made with corn imported from Mexico, according to a news release. A rep says Vela’s menu will showcase Mexico City’s street food and more classic elegant dishes with creative regional dishes.
The space has room for 120 and has been redecorated with lime wash and stucco walls, plus natural wood herringbone flooring. Customers will see handmade Venetian chandeliers near the entrance and glass-beaded chandeliers in the private dining room. Celeste has a particular decadent style for its bar program. There’s a marble-topped bar shaped like an oval with an illuminated carousel displaying bottles of agave.
Arturo Gomez, who co-founded (along with Billy Dec and Brad Young) of Rockit Ranch Productions, joined brothers Nader, Fadi, and Rafid Hindo in July 2023 and formed Celeste Group. Their venues are Whiskey Bar, Deco Supper Club, and DISCO (and the rooftop Garden). A rep says more concepts are upcoming. They’ve brought on chef Jorge Angulo as executive chef of the new company.
They’re hoping for a summer opening. Check back for more details.
Vela, 352 W. Hubbard Street, planned for a July opening
In just a few days, the 17th season of the IPL will kick off, starting on March 23. I can’t help but feel the buzz as fans and pundits alike gear up for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in cricket’s most glamorous league.
Last year, the Chennai Super Kings clinched their fifth IPL title, a monumental achievement that placed them on par with the Mumbai Indians, both holding the record for the most titles won. In this post, I will discuss in detail what to expect in IPL 2024 and share some predictions about who will emerge as a new champion. There’s a lot to cover, so let’s begin.
The Heavyweights and Their Odds
It’s no surprise that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI) are again at the forefront as the teams to beat, with identical odds of 6.00. Their consistency and ability to perform under pressure have been unmatched, making them the top picks for many enthusiasts, including myself.
Sunrisers Hyderabad, on the other hand, sits on the opposite end of the spectrum with odds of 13.00. However, their ambitious move to sign Pat Cummins, breaking the IPL franchise record, signals their intent to disrupt the status quo.
For those interested in exploring the world of IPL betting, some websites offer reviews, tips, and guides on the best betting apps and sites, ensuring you can make informed decisions on where to place your bets safely and securely. For more details, check thetopbookies.com.
Teams and Their Chances
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI): Odds at 6.00
Gujarat Titans: Following closely with odds of 8.00
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Not far behind at 10.00
The auction brought significant changes, notably Mitchell Starc joining Kolkata Knight Riders for a whopping INR 24.75 crore and Pat Cummins to Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 20.5 crore.
Team
Odds to win IPL 2024
Chennai Super Kings
6.00
Mumbai Indians
6.00
Gujarat Titans
8.00
Rajasthan Royals
9.00
Royal Challengers Bangalore
10.00
Delhi Capitals
11.00
Lucknow Super Giants
11.00
Punjab Kings
12.00
Kolkata Knight Riders
12.00
Sunrisers Hyderabad
13.00
Teams to Keep an Eye On
Apart from the favorites, CSK and MI, there are a few other teams that deserve attention:
Gujarat Titans: Their strategic plays and team composition make them a formidable opponent.
Royal Challengers Bangalore: Always a crowd-pleaser with the potential to go all the way.
Kolkata Knight Riders: With Starc’s inclusion, they’re a team to watch.
The Dark Horse: Rajasthan Royals
Rajasthan Royals, with their potent batting lineup featuring Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jos Buttler, Sanju Samson, and Shimron Hetmyer, have shown they’re not to be underestimated. Winning 17 out of 31 matches since 2022, their performance speaks volumes. Their strategy focuses on specialists rather than all-rounders, a move that could very well tilt the scales in their favor.
Their Strength Lies in:
Batting Power: With players like Buttler, Samson, and Jaiswal, they can dominate any bowling attack.
Bowling Strategy: A reliable backup for Trent Boult in Nandre Burger and the experienced duo of Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal make their bowling lineup enviable.
What Makes IPL 2024 Special?
Every season of the IPL brings its share of surprises, and this year is no different. With new players and teams stepping up, the dynamics are bound to change constantly. IPL 2024 is set to be an unpredictable rollercoaster filled with thrilling performances and unforgettable moments.
What to Expect?
The IPL 2024 is shaping up to be a real spectacle with fresh faces and team vibes. Plus, playing on home turf and smart game plans are going to be more crucial than ever. The big auction in Dubai on December 19, 2023, was a blockbuster event. It was like the who’s who of cricket with some significant cash being thrown around.
Especially eye-catching was the entry of seven champs from Australia’s ODI World Cup winning team, each with a starting price tag of a cool INR 2 crore (about USD 240,000). Travis Head also made headlines, moving to Sunrisers Hyderabad for INR 6.8 crore (USD 800,000), and Rachin Ravindra landed with Chennai Super Kings for INR 1.8 crore (USD 240,000).
These newcomers are going to spice things up, bringing their A-game and forming dynamic duos and power-packed partnerships. For instance, Starc and Cummins are all set to unleash their pace attack, while Head and Ravindra will beef up the batting and spinning for SRH and CSK.
Not to forget, Josh Inglis and Steven Smith are going to add some serious batting firepower to the Lucknow Super Giants. It’s going to be one heck of a season!
FAQs
Who’s kicking off the IPL 2024?
It’s going to be a showdown between Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore to open the season.
When’s the season starting?
Mark your calendars for March 23, that’s when all the cricket action begins.
Where’s the big finale of IPL 2024 happening?
The Narendra Modi Stadium is where it all goes down for the grand finale.
How many matches are we looking at for IPL 2024?
Get ready for a jam-packed schedule of 74 matches this season.
Who’s in the running for IPL 2024?
The teams hitting the pitch are Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Super Kings, Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Gujarat Titans.
How long is the 2024 season?
From the starting whistle on March 23 to the final play on May 29, that’s the whole cricket carnival.
Where’s the first match of IPL 2024 taking place?
Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium is where the action kicks off.
Final Thoughts
As the season approaches, the excitement is evident. The blend of experienced titans and ambitious challengers makes the IPL a spectacle of cricketing prowess. Teams like CSK and MI are the favorites for good reason, but as history has shown, anything can happen in the IPL. Teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals are prime examples of why the league remains one of the most unpredictable and thrilling competitions in the world of sports.
So, grab your popcorn and get ready to enjoy cricket at its best. The IPL 2024 is upon us, and I, for one, cannot wait to see how this season unfolds.
Movies can be an excellent social bonding experience in a variety of situations, including first dates, family movie nights, group watches, couples therapy, and professional settings. Learn more about the emotional dynamics behind watching films together.
Beyond being a source of entertainment, films have the power to foster social bonds and create shared experiences among individuals.
Whether it’s getting together at a friend’s house on a weekend night, embarking on a first date at the theaters, or upholding a family tradition of watching the same movie during holidays, watching movies together is one of the most common ways we connect with others.
But what’s the psychology behind these cinematic connections? Let’s dive into the many social benefits behind movie watching and how they can improve our relationships in a number of different social settings.
Shared Experiences
Every time you press “Play” on a new movie, you are starting a collective journey with whoever you are watching with. No one knows what will happen, so you are both entering the unknown together and experiencing it for the first time.
Every film is a rollercoaster of different emotions – joy, laughter, surprise, fear, suspense, disgust, sadness, anger – and everyone is experiencing those emotions together as a “hive mind.” Research shows emotions are contagious, and when multiple people are experiencing the same emotion in unison, feelings are often amplified more than if you were just experiencing it by yourself.
Movies create new shared experiences that mark new chapters throughout our relationship. “Remember that one time we saw Wolf on Wall Street? That was fun!” A memorable movie can become a distinct event in our relationship’s storyline, especially if it symbolizes a special day like a first date, birthday, or anniversary, giving us a positive memory to look back on and reminisce about.
Watching movies together doesn’t require much work, it effortlessly creates a sense of unity among the people watching. Even if everyone hates the movie, it still creates a shared bond, “Wow, that movie was really stupid!” and then you can all laugh about it.
Icebreaker and Conversation Starter
Watching films together serves as an excellent icebreaker, especially in situations where individuals may be meeting for the first time or trying to strengthen new connections.
The movie theater, often considered a classic venue for a first date, provides a natural conversation starter. After the credits roll, initiating a conversation becomes as easy as asking, “Did you like the movie? Why or why not?” Ask about favorite scenes or whether they’ve seen other movies featuring the same actor or actress.
Use the film as a springboard into other topics to talk about. If you’re skilled at conversation threading, you should be able to take one thing from the film and branch off into more important subjects. If it’s a film about music, inquire about their musical preferences or whether they play an instrument. For sports-themed movies, explore their favorite sports or childhood sports experiences.
Icebreakers aren’t exclusive to first dates; they’re equally helpful in building connections in various scenarios, whether it’s getting to know a coworker outside the office or deepening a friendship.
One fair criticism of movies as a bonding experience is that you don’t get to do much talking during them. It’s a passive experience, not an active one. But there are also benefits to this: it’s a shared experience with little effort (no pressure, just sit and watch), and it gives you a convenient starting point for more meaningful conversation later on.
Nostalgia and Tradition
For many, watching films together is not just an occasional activity but a cherished tradition that spans multiple generations.
Family movie nights play a pivotal role in strengthening the bonds between parents and children. Holiday film marathons, especially during festive seasons, elevate our collective spirit and enhance the joyous atmosphere. Revisiting favorite childhood movies creates a profound sense of nostalgia, keeping us connected to our past.
One popular family tradition may be during Christmas, such as having A Christmas Story playing in the background as you decorate the tree or watching It’s A Wonderful Life every Christmas eve.
These traditions are about more than just the movie; they’re about creating a whole family experience. Infuse your own unique twist by turning it into a game, baking homemade cookies before watching, or simply enjoying jokes and good company. The film itself is just one aspect of a complete family ritual and bonding experience.
When families embrace these shared traditions, they contribute to a profound sense of belonging and unity. These rituals become the threads weaving together the fabric of family ties and friendships over long periods of time.
Team Building and Group Bonding
Beyond personal connections, watching films together can be an effective team-building activity in professional settings.
Organizational unity can be difficult to achieve for many companies, especially when workers have radically different jobs and skillsets, often being assigned to work within one department of a company but being siloed off from the organization as a whole.
Movie nights and film screenings can be an effective way to provide employees with a stronger sense of unity and camaraderie. Different departments that normally don’t see each other get to cross-pollinate and make connections with faces they don’t often get to see. Scheduled events like this can foster a team of teams mindset, helping to interconnect different departments into a cohesive whole.
Perhaps certain movies depict an idea, philosophy, or mindset that an organization wants to embrace more of. Requiring every employee to watch a movie together is more than just making friends at work, it can also tap into a deeper meaning behind the organization’s mission and purpose.
Couples Therapy
Movies can serve as bouncing points to important conversations that need to be had between spouses and loved ones.
It’s not always easy to bring up certain topics of conversation, but through film you can organically dive into subjects that otherwise wouldn’t get brought up in everyday discourse, like mental health, sex and intimacy, or experiencing grief after a tragedy or loss.
It’s common for a couples therapist to recommend a specific movie to their clients. You may already know of a movie that you’d like to share with someone. You can also ask friends or seek recommendations online. Ask yourself, “What’s something I really want to talk about with my partner?” then “What’s a good movie that can introduce this topic?”
A powerful film can help couples process their relationship more clearly. It shows the universality of humanity – you’re not alone with whatever you are going through – and brings ideas out in the open that need to be expressed or talked about.
One exercise you can try together is to each take notes or fill out a movie analysis worksheet while watching.
Communal Bonding and Bridging Social Divides
On a larger scale, film watching can help bridge cultural and social divides, as well as be used as a tool for communal bonding.
Social events such as public screenings, outdoor showings, movie festivals, or drive-thru theaters are great settings to watch a movie among a large and diverse group of people within your community.
These days with easy access to streaming services at home, most people watch movies all by themselves, but there used to be a time when movie-watching was an intrinsically social activity done in public spaces.
As we continue to see a decline in community feeling, movies may be one avenue to start bringing people together again as a cohesive group.
One idea is for local organizations to throw more public events with film features to celebrate holidays or special events – or you can set up a projector on your garage door and invite some neighbors for a weekend movie watch.
Conclusion
Watching films together is more than just a passive form of entertainment; it is a dynamic social activity that brings people together, creating lasting bonds and shared memories.
Films are universal connectors. Whether it’s with family, friends, or colleagues, the act of watching a movie together creates an automatic bond and sense of unity.
Are you a big movie watcher? In what situations can use film watching to improve your relationships with family, friends, loved ones, or coworkers?
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Joshua Wöhle is CEO at Mindstone, transforming daily learning from articles, podcasts, and videos into a quantifiable skills profile, much like LinkedIn. He personalizes your learning experience but also aligns it with your career goals or your company’s objectives, making every learning moment count.
My career is rooted in the tech industry, but the lessons learned there are universally applicable across all sectors. Tech has always been synonymous with a frantic pace of change; the industry conjures up images of engineers working at breakneck speed to deploy new version after new version, with stagnation being a dirty word.
AI is spreading this speed of innovation further and accelerating the workplace cadence across all sectors. As company founders, this allows us to look closely at the trends and strategies within the tech industry and use these insights to predict what will happen everywhere, shaping our hiring approaches for the next few years.
CTOs (chief technology officers), often responsible for the hiring and firing of talent in tech, are the canaries in the coal mine when it comes to future-proof recruitment. They have been operating in a high-speed moving environment for longer than most. As the pace of change accelerates for all of us, they’ve uniquely positioned to identify emerging trends and shifts, particularly in skills and roles that are gaining or losing relevance. Their decisions and insights, therefore, provide valuable foresight into the new demands of the tech industry.
In a recent survey I conducted with leading CTOs, a consensus emerged in hiring for longevity rather than immediacy, not prioritizing traditional skills but instead placing emphasis on adaptability and problem-solving acumen. I know this firsthand, having dropped out of university twice due to its rigid structure. Only later in life did I understand the key to success, and it’s not about formal qualifications but rather a willingness to learn and adapt. In engineering teams, it’s not just conventional technical skills, such as coding in the case of tech, but rather the aptitude for learning, teamwork, and proactive problem-solving.
Only later in life did I understand the key to success, and it’s not about formal qualifications but rather a willingness to learn and adapt.
Generative AI making more inroads into workflows, as seen recently in companies like Duolingo, is a timely reminder that the need to adapt is now here. The company cut its contractor workforce by 10%, using AI to fulfill some of its duties, hinting that imminent change is here. This move signals a broader trend: The ability to adapt swiftly and proficiently utilize new technological tools is becoming indispensable.
The shift toward AI-driven changes in the workforce underlines the importance of upskilling. More importance should be placed on upskilling existing employees rather than recycling workforces. Telecom giant AT&T is an excellent example; after conducting a skill gap analysis, they found that almost half of their employees needed more adaptable skills for the company’s future needs. Instead of extensive recruitment, AT&T focused on upskilling and reskilling initiatives, particularly in areas like AI. In 2022, the company spent $135 million on employee learning and development, providing online education platforms for convenient learning opportunities.
What does this mean for startups? Upskilling, especially in fields like AI, is more than just a remedy for skill shortages. It is a strategic long-term investment and will help cultivate a dynamic, adaptable workforce, which is crucial for driving innovation and growth in your business.
(NewsNation) — Office workers may have a new excuse to start the weekend early: Microsoft Teams was down Friday.
Downdetector showed over 11,800 reports as of noon CT. That number went up to 13,869 at 12:22.
“We’re investigating an issue impacting multiple Microsoft Teams features,” Microsoft 365 wrote on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter. “We’ve identified a networking issue impacting a portion of the Teams service and we’re performing a failover to remediate impact.”
Microsoft Teams was trending on Twitter on Friday. Users said images and other content weren’t loading and duplicate messages were being sent, among other issues.
According to Downdetector, some people were also experiencing issues with Microsoft 365 and Microsoft Store, though to a much lesser extent.
Statins, one of the most extensively studied drugs on the planet, taken by tens of millions of Americans alone, have long had a perplexing side effect. Many patients—some 5 percent in clinical trials, and up to 30 percent in observational studies—experience sore and achy muscles, especially in the upper arms and legs. A much smaller proportion, less than 1 percent, develop muscle weakness or myopathy severe enough that they find it hard to “climb stairs, get up from a sofa, get up from the toilet,” says Robert Rosenson, a cardiologist at Mount Sinai. He’s had patients fall on the street because they couldn’t lift their leg over a curb.
But why should an anticholesterol drug weaken muscles in the arms and legs? Recently, two groups of scientists stumbled upon an answer. They didn’t set out to study statins. They weren’t studying cholesterol at all. They were hunting for genes behind a rare disease called limb girdle muscle dystrophy, in which muscles of the upper arms and legs—sound familiar?—become weak and waste away. After both teams tracked the disease through a handful of families in the U.S. and a Bedouin family in Israel, their suspicions separately landed on mutations in a gene encoding a particularly intriguing enzyme.
The enzyme is known as HMG-CoA reductase, and to doctors, it is not obscure. It is, in fact, the very enzyme that statins block in the process of halting cholesterol production. And so, the answers to two mysteries suddenly became clear at once: Dysfunction in this enzyme causes muscle weakness from both limb girdle muscular dystrophy and statins.
This connection between a rare disease and a common drug stunned the researchers. “It seemed too good to be true,” says Joel Morales-Rosado, a pathologist who worked on one of the studies as a postdoctoral researcher at the Mayo Clinic. “One of the first things you learn in medical school is association between statins and myopathy.” Now the answer as to why— along with a potential treatment for it—has emerged from the DNA of just a few patients living with a seemingly unrelated genetic disease.
The first patient the Mayo team studied had been showing signs of limb girdle muscular dystrophy since he was a child, and his symptoms worsened over time until he lost the ability to walk or breathe with ease. (The disease can also affect large muscles in the torso.) Now in his 30s, he wanted to know the genetic cause of his disease before having children and potentially passing it on to them. His two brothers had the disease as well. So the team looked for genes in which all three brothers had mutations in both copies, which is how they zeroed in on the gene for HMG-CoA reductase.
Six more patients from four other families confirmed the link. They too all had mutations in the same gene, and they too were all diagnosed with some degree of limb girdle muscular dystrophy. (Interestingly, for reasons we don’t entirely understand, they all have normal or low cholesterol.)
Unbeknownst to the Mayo team, a group of researchers halfway around the world was already studying a large Bedouin family with a history of limb girdle muscular dystrophy. This family also carried mutations in the gene encoding HMG-CoA reductase. Those afflicted began experiencing minor symptoms in their 30s, such as muscle cramps, that worsened over time. The oldest family members, in their late 40s or 50s, had lost all movement in their arms and legs. One bedridden woman had to be ventilated full-time through a hole in her windpipe. Another had died in their mid-50s, Ohad Birk, a geneticist and doctor at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, in Israel, told me. When his team saw that this family had the mutations in HMG-CoA reductase, they too immediately recognized the potential link to statins.
This pair of studies in the U.S. and Israel “really strongly suggests” that statins cause muscle damage via the same HMG-CoA reductase pathway, says Andrew Mammen, a neurologist at the National Institutes of Health who was not involved in either study. The enzyme’s role had been suspected, he told me, but “it had never been proven, especially in humans.” (Questions still remain, however. The enzyme, for example, is found in tissues throughout the body, so why do these common side effects show up in muscles specifically?) Rosenson, at Mount Sinai, wondered if variations in this gene could explain why statins don’t affect everyone the same. Perhaps patients who suffer particularly severe muscle side effects already have less functional versions of the enzyme, which becomes problematic only when they start taking statins, which reduce its function even further. This research might end up concretely improving the life of at least some of the patients most severely affected by statins.
That’s because Birk’s team in Israel did not stop at simply identifying the mutation. For two decades, he and his colleagues have been studying genetic disorders in this Bedouin community in the Negev and developing genetic tests so parents can avoid passing them on to their children. (Cousin marriages are traditional there, and when two parents are related, they are more likely to carry and pass on the same mutation to a child.) With limb girdle muscular dystrophy, his team went one step further than usual: They found a drug to treat it.
This drug, called mevalonolactone, allows muscle cells to function more normally even without the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme. Birk’s team first tested it in mice given doses of statins high enough to weaken their limbs; those also given mevalonolactone continued to crawl and even hang upside down on a wire just fine. They seemed to suffer no ill effects. When that experimental drug was given to the Bedouin woman bedridden with limb girdle muscular dystrophy, she also started regaining control of her arms and legs. She could eventually lift her arm, sit up by herself, raise her knees, and even feed her grandchild on her own. It was a dramatic improvement. Birk told me he has since heard about dozens of patients with limb girdle muscular dystrophy around the world who may benefit from this experimental drug.
Mammen and others think the drug could help a small subset of patients who take statins as well. However, the majority of patients—those with relatively minor pains or weaknesses that go away after they switch statins or have their dosage reduced—probably don’t need this new treatment. It probably even undermines the whole point of taking statins: Mevalonolactone eventually gets turned into cholesterol in the body, so “you’re basically supplying the building blocks for making more cholesterol,” Mammen said. But for some people, numbering in the thousands, severe muscle weakness does not go away even after they stop taking statins. These patients have developed antibodies to HMG-CoA reductase, which Mammen suspects continue to bind and disable the enzyme.
Mammen is eager for these patients to try mevalonolactone, and he’s been in touch with Birk, who unfortunately doesn’t have enough of the drug to share. In fact, he doesn’t even have enough to treat all of the other family members in Israel who are clamoring for it. “We’re not a factory. We’re a research lab,” Birk told me. Mevalonolactone is available as a research chemical, but that’s not pure and safe enough for human consumption. Birk’s graduate student Yuval Yogev had to manufacture the drug himself by genetically engineering bacteria to make mevalonolactone, which he then painstakingly purified. Making a drug to this standard is a huge amount of work, even for commercial labs. Birk is looking for a pharmaceutical company that could manufacture the drug at scale—for both patients with limb girdle muscular dystrophy and those with the most severe forms of statin-associated muscle damage.
Back in 1980, the very first person to receive an experimental dose of statins suffered muscle weakness so severe, she could not walk. (She had been given an extremely high dose.) Forty years later, muscle pain and weakness are still common reasons patients quit these very effective drugs. This recent breakthrough is finally pointing researchers toward a better understanding of statins’ toll on muscles, even if they still can’t fix it for everyone.
MUNICH, October 30, 2020 (Newswire.com)
– The Munich-based startup 4tiitoo (forty two), which specializes in gaze control of computers, launches NUIA Full Focus, a software that creates natural eye contact with conversation partners in video calls intelligently and without artificial image adjustments. This builds trust, makes content more memorable and simply helps the speaker to come across as more engaging.
Over 900 million business trips are expected to be replaced by remote communication this year. In this new normal, the ability to build trust in video calls is a key success factor. This is especially important for sales. Studies show that eye contact is the key to trust. This applies to video-supported communication just as much as to face-to-face meetings. Eye contact in video calls is provided to the conversation partner when the user looks at the monitor area near the camera (the “sweet spot”). Currently, however, a lot of relevant information – often even the image of the other person in the call – is displayed far away from this sweet spot. As a result, many callers seem to look away from the camera and the person they are talking to – even when they are actually concentrating on the video image of the person they are talking to.
With NUIA Full Focus and an Eye Tracker installed, a quick glance at relevant screen content is enough to automatically duplicate it into the sweet spot. The user can then look in the direction of the camera again and signals full attention to the conversation partner through eye contact.
In addition to intuitive eye contact, NUIA Full Focus contains a number of other useful functions: Important commands within the video call software, such as Mute and Hang Up, can be controlled by gaze without this software being actively in the foreground. If you move from the ideal camera angle, Full Focus’s Posture Coach functionality gives a brief warning, helping you optimize your conversational position and showing your attention.
NUIA Full Focus works seamlessly with all video communication solutions such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Hangouts, Webex or Skype. When used in sales, NUIA Full Focus also integrates with content from SalesForce, Hubspot and other CRM systems. Whether in sales calls, webinars, trainings, job application situations or in daily meetings with colleagues – with NUIA Full Focus you give your business partners the attention they deserve.
4tiitoo co-founder and Managing Director Tore Meyer: “In our own video calls we noticed over and over again that the participants gazed in all possible directions, just not at our eyes. We wanted to do this better, especially in our sales and investor calls, so we started by positioning relevant windows on the screen with the mouse near the camera. That was an improvement, but at the same time distracted us in highly concentrated call situation. After a big investor pitch via video conference, we came up with the idea: Why not solve this more elegantly with our Eye-Control platform? NUIA Full Focus is the result.”
Those who make eye contact will be noticed. This is something Tore Meyer has learned from personal experience: “During our financing round, we got to know all new investors via video call using this technique” – with success. A financing round for 3.1 million euros was signed in mid-October. In view of the continuing interest, a second closing is in preparation.
4tiitoo GmbH is a market leader in the area of enterprise SaaS companies for AI-based solutions for easy gaze control of computers. The software NUIA Productivity+, used by numerous large companies across various industries, improves efficiency and ergonomics when using standard office software. The new product NUIA Full Focus provides natural eye contact and trust in video conferences – fully automatic and with all video conferencing platforms – optimizing sales and all video communication.
4tiitoo was founded in 2013 by Tore Meyer and Stephan Odoerfer.
Clay Bennett, chairman of the Professional Basketball Club LLC, became the principal owner of the 
