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San Antonio vs New York, Final Score: Brunson and KAT fuel Knicks to a 105-95 win over the Spurs

SAN ANTONIO, TX - JUNE 3: Dylan Harper #2 of the San Antonio Spurs drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks during Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 3, 2026 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE(Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Spurs came onto the biggest stage in basketball and encountered a team that was tough as nails mentally and physically. Jalen Brunson took a licking and kept on ticking, and Karl-Anthony Towns got to every loose ball and turned them into points. The Spurs had some great performances as Dylan Harper was able to get to the hoop on demand, and Julian Champagnie hit some great shots, while Wembanyama was off with his shot, Fox had a tough night. The Spurs were able to come back and lead by a point with 2 minutes left in the game, but were put away by the Knicks 11-0 closing kick as the visitors took home court away from the favored Spurs.

For the Spurs to beat the Knicks, they are going to need Wembanyama to dominate, because the Knicks have so many good players that they can neutralize the rest of the Spurs roster, and if De’Aaron Fox can’t hit his shots, it’s a bad night for the Silver and Black. Hats off to Jalen Brunson, who didn’t let some poor shooting to start off discourage him, as the Knicks took over the game in the last two minutes left the home court fans bereft, except for a loud Knicks fan contingent who were ecstatic with their team’s road victory.

It was a tough night for the Silver and Black, but not the first time they’ve lost the opening game of a playoff series, and they’ve been able to overcome it before in the Timberwolves series. They’re going to have to do it again if they want to win the championship, and they will need to break the Knicks 12 game winning streak on Friday night to get started on that task. Four more wins, people, and that starts with the first one in Game 2 in a couple of days.

Observations

  • “Impatience can be a virtue ..”—Victor Wembanyama. He’s ready to win now, and doesn’t see the need to wait to ‘pay his dues.’ Because even at his young age, he’s already paid his dues, with talent and dedication.
  • “Pressure busts pipes.”—Shaquille O’Neal. He oughtta know. It’s a little different twist on the saying about diamonds, but I’ll allow it. The prevalent narrative is that the Knicks are the veteran team that can handle the pressure of a finals more, but I think that Mitch Johnson has done a great job of preparing the team to be able to perform under pressure.
  • KAT won the opening tip and got the ball to Brunson for a quick triple. NYC got off to a quick 12-7 start as the Spurs started off cold and the Knicks red hot after their long layoff.
  • Luke Kornet took over for Wemby halfway through the first as the Spurs won the first quarter minutes with the big guy on the bench, retaking the lead on a Dylan Harper and-one with a little over 4 minutes left in the quarter, and the Spurs led 22-17 when Wemby returned with a little over 2 minutes left.
  • Brunson had to go to the locker room in the first quarter when Barnes fell into his leg after being fouled, and looked like he might have hyperextended his right knee.
  • The Spur led 27-19 at the end of the first quarter, completely negating New York’s hot start with a 10 point explosion from Dylan Harper.
  • NYC was tough to start the second quarter, as they stepped up the defense and made some hustle plays to cut into the deficit. Brunson re-entered the game after a puzzling challenge from the Spurs where Victor knocked KAT on his ass. Shows what I know, the Spurs won the challenge.
  • The Spurs were in the penalty for 8 minutes in the second quarter, but they couldn’t take advantage with only 4 free throws in the quarter.
  • Brunson brought the Knicks back into the game with his scoring, until the Spurs finished on a late surge to lead 55-48 at the half, with Julian Champagnie getting open looks and knocking them to become the game’s leading scorer with 15 points at the half.
  • The Knicks only scored 2 points in the first 5 minutes of the second half, and it felt like a missed opportunity that the Spurs only scored 8 to take a 13 point lead. Wemby had to sit, and a 6-0 run from the Knicks brought them back within 6 of the home team, 61-67.
  • Towns took control of the game in the third quarter as he got to every loose ball and punished the Spurs on the offensive boards to cut the deficit to two, with Brunson tying it up 71 each with 2 minutes left in the third.
  • The score was tied 76-76 at the end of the third, due to a Deuce McBride circus shot that somehow went in after bouncing off the backboard on it’s way in from the short corner.
  • Anunoby went nuclear to start the fourth, and did something you hardly ever see, beating Wembanyama one-on-one for a pure three point shot … nothing but net, as the Knicks took a five point lead. The Spurs tied it up on a Castle three and a Vassell tip-in and the game was tied 86-86.
  • An unfortunate incident happened
  • The Knicks took an eight point lead with 5 minutes left with the Spurs looking a bit like the pressure was too much for them, and the NYC contingent in the crowd going wild as Brunson took over for the Orange and Blue. It was definitely the low point of the game for the Silver and Black.
  • The Spurs retook the lead with an 8-0 run to lead 95-94 with a little over 2 minutes left. A critical tip from Brunson on the next possession allowed him to get the ball back for a cold-blooded triple to retake the lead for the Manhattan team.
  • The Knicks scored 9 in a row and led by 8 with 20 seconds left, and it was capped with a couple of Anonuby free throws as the Knicks won by double digits.

Up next

The Spurs are back in the Frost Bank Center on Friday night at 7:30 PM. That’s right, same Bat Time, same Bat Channel. See you there.

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Jalen Brunson comes alive late, Knicks open NBA Finals with gutsy Game 1 win over Spurs

In their first NBA Finals game in 27 years, the Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 on Wednesday night. 

New York has won 12 straight games, as they open a 1-0 series lead. 

Here are some takeaways...

- Both teams were ready to go from the opening tip, as expected. The stars were letting it fly early, as Jalen Brunson and Victor Wembanyama scored the first two buckets of the game, and New York's hot shooting continued to open a seven-point advantage just over five minutes into the contest. 

- After a sloppy stretch, though, the Spurs were able to get into a rhythm. Starting with the non-Wemby minutes, they put together a thunderous 20-3 run to push their first lead of the game all the way out to double-digits, led by Dylan Harper's 10 points off the bench in his first NBA Finals action. 

- Brunson had a nightmare opening quarter, hitting just one of his seven shots, and he was forced to limp back to the locker room late in the frame after appearing to injure his right knee after Harrison Barnes fell on him. 

- Jose Alvarado stepped up nicely for New York with four points and four boards off the bench in the opening minutes of the second, before the captain was ready to make his way back onto the floor (without a knee brace) in a one-possession game just four minutes into the quarter. 

- Brunson went down again and had to limp to the Knicks' bench minutes later after Luke Kornet stepped on his ankle on a drive to the basket, but he was right back out there after a timeout. He immediately showed no ill-effects, giving the Knicks a brief lead with three consecutive buckets. 

- New York's eighth turnover and a red-hot Julian Champagnie helped the Spurs carry a seven-point lead into the break. The St. John's product led all scorers with 15 first half points, drilling five of his six threes, with everyone else shooting a combined 26 percent from behind the arc. 

- Momentum stayed in San Antonio's favor coming out of the break, as the Knicks scored just two points to open the third, making just one of their first 10 shots from the field. Wemby's presence was being felt down-low, and the Spurs were able to open their largest lead of the night at the time (13). 

- Wemby limped to the bench after appearing to injure his knee, but immediately waved off trainers. New York took over from there, though, as an aggressive Karl-Anthony Towns led them on a much-needed run and a Miles McBride banked corner three evened things at 76 heading to the fourth. 

 - The teams traded buckets early in the fourth, then it was Brunson time. The reigning Clutch Player of the Year award winner returned to the floor just over five minutes into the quarter and immediately took things over, scoring the next eight points to create some separation. 

- New York then missed their next eight shots as Wemby led the Spurs on a run, before Brunson and the Knicks counterpunched one last time with a splurge of their own to put this one away. Captain clutch scored 13 of his 30 points in the fourth to lead the way for New York, once again. 

- Wemby finished with 26 points and 12 boards on 6-of-21 shooting from the field. Josh Hart had just three points but did a tremendous job on the star big man and once again chipped in everywhere else, pulling in a game-high 15 rebounds while dishing out six assists and swiping four steals. 

- Towns had 18 points and 12 rebounds, Anunoby 17 points, and Shamet 13 points off the bench. 

Game MVP: Jalen Brunson

Brunson came alive when the Knicks needed him the most, as always. 

Highlights

What's next

Game 2 in San Antonio is on Friday night at 8:30 p.m.

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Selfie-taking fan storms court in surreal NBA Finals Game 1 scene

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Victor Wembanyama and Mitchell Robinson watch as a fan runs onto the court, Image 2 shows A fan runs onto the court and takes a photo with Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs during the fourth quarter in Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals against the New York Knicks at Frost Bank Center on June 3, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas
fan selfie

A fan ran onto the court in the fourth quarter of the Knicks’ Game 1 win in the NBA Finals, seemingly attempting to get a selfie with Spurs star Victor Wembanyama and New York’s Mitchell Robinson.

Security at Frost Bank Center quickly descended on the interloper and ushered him off the court.

Wembanyama seemed to enjoy the bizarre scene, while Robinson was visibly befuddled. The fan ran onto the court with 6:32 left. It was a pivotal moment as the Knicks just took the lead 92-86, and the Spurs looked to answer back.

The fan seemed to have come from the opposite side of the team benches, and play was halted for roughly a minute. 

“A fan just ran on the floor and wants to take a selfie. Security quickly takes him away. Crowd gives him the appropriate boo, fortunately nobody hurt,” ESPN broadcaster Mike Breen said on air as the whole thing went down. 

A fan runs onto the court and takes a photo with Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs during the fourth quarter in Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals against the New York Knicks at Frost Bank Center on June 3, 2026 in San Antonio, Texas. Getty Images

“It’s just too good for that to happen,” analyst Tim Legler added on-air.

The referees were left to sort things out in the aftermath, opting to give the Spurs possession at midcourt. With the momentum altered, the Spurs, after the delay, went back on offense and missed a key shot.

The Knicks continued their strong second half and finished it out, winning 105-95.

The moment seemed to be more reminiscent of something that might happen at a soccer match than an NBA game. 

Wembanyama seemed to enjoy the scene, while Robinson was befuddled. ESPN

Inter Miami star and global soccer icon Lionel Messi has seen more than his fair share of overzealous fans who have jumped onto the field of play in attempts to get a photograph with him. 

There had also been a similar incident during the Super Bowl in February, when a person ran onto the field and was nearly tackled by Patriots wide receiver Kyle Williams.

And whether it was worth the whole ordeal for the basketball fan who stormed the court on Wednesday night is yet to be seen. 

In Texas, it is a crime to go into a restricted area at a stadium.

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Fan runs on floor, tries to take selfie with Victor Wembanyama during Finals Game 1

A fan is on the court!

In the fourth quarter of Game 1 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, a young man ran onto the court and pulled his phone out to take a selfie. Security quickly swooped in and escorted the fan off the court in San Antonio.

Victor Wembanyama, who the fan was seemingly trying to get in the selfie, was standing next to Mitchell Robinson. The Spurs center laughed while the Knicks big man looked confused.

The Knicks were up 92-86 with 6:34 on the clock at the time of the incident. Play eventually continued with a jump ball.

The Knicks are playing in their first Finals since 1999. The series, which marks Wembanyama's debut in the Finals, is a rematch of that championship.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fan on floor stops play in Knicks-Spurs NBA Finals Game 1

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Fan runs onto court, briefly stopping Game 1 of NBA Finals

SAN ANTONIO (AP) — A fan ran onto the court midway through the fourth quarter of Game 1 of the NBA Finals, appearing to try to take a selfie next to San Antonio star Victor Wembanyama.

The fan came from the sideline opposite the team benches, starting from behind the play and running into San Antonio's offensive end. The person was quickly pulled from the court by two security guards and it did not appear the person made any contact with Wembanyama or any New York players.

Play was stopped for about a minute before the game resumed with a jump ball. The fan was taken out of the court area through a baseline tunnel.

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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba

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Victor Wembanyama shares NBA Finals moment with Spurs nuns in viral moment

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs talks to the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco before the game against the New York Knicks during Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 2, 2026 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas, Image 2 shows A basketball player in a black and white uniform signs an autograph for a fan
Wembanyama nun

The Spurs nuns have been a presence during San Antonio’s run to the NBA Finals, and ahead of Game 1, they shared a viral moment with one of the team’s biggest stars. 

The NBA’s social media account posted a video of the group of nuns appearing to pray with Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama at Frost Bank Center on Wednesday.

The 7-foot-4 Wembanyama bowed his head and bent over to get close to the nuns as they prayed. 

The Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco have been supporting the Spurs for decades and went viral earlier in the playoffs after they were spotted blessing Spurs center Luke Kornet ahead of Game 4 against the Thunder in the Western Conference finals. 

Their fandom dates back to the 1990s, and the group started cheering on San Antonio’s basketball team to share common interests and understand the students at St. John Bosco School. 

Wembanyama, 22, is among the group’s favorite players on the roster, Sister Margaret Natal told the San Antonio Express-News in May. 

“And, of course, Wemby,” she told the outlet, highlighting her admiration for the respect and care he shows toward his mother. “And, he’s an incredible athlete, too.”

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs talks to the Salesian Sisters of St. John Bosco before the game against the New York Knicks during Game One of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 2, 2026 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas. NBAE via Getty Images

Natal told the outlet that the nuns often pray for the Spurs. 

“We keep them in prayer, and it’s not, you know, for them to win,” Natal said. “It’s about good sportsmanship, that they remember who they are. That they are role models. We pray that they play to the best of their ability. We pray that they understand their responsibility.”

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THN Archive: NHL Valuations – Nashville Predators

The Hockey News has released its archive to all THN subscribers: 76 years of history, stories, and features.

Subscribe now to view the full THN Archives here

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NHL Valuations—Nashville Predators – Jan 2, 2026 - David Boclair

NHL VALUATIONS

$1.6B FORBES

$1.6B SPORTICO

$1.75B ROUSTAN

OWNERSHIP

BILL HASLAM

BILL HASLAM’S NET worth has grown dramatically in recent years, largely due to the sale of his family business. Berkshire Hathaway acquired Pilot Flying J truck stops from the Haslam family in three transactions, the last in 2024.

And Haslam immediately began to spend that windfall on sports. The former Governor of Tennessee (2011-19) acquired a majority share of the Predators in four purchases over three years, a process that concluded in 2025 and coincided with a dramatic increase in his personal wealth.

Now worth a reported $5.7 billion, Haslam has already pursued a WNBA franchise for Nashville. His attempt to secure a team in that league’s latest round of expansion was unsuccessful, but he has made it clear he plans to pursue future opportunities to get a women’s professional basketball team, which he intends to call the Tennessee Summitt, for Nashville.

It will take some time, though, before he acquires enough professional-sports assets to match his brother. Jimmy Haslam purchased the NFL’s Cleveland Browns in 2012 and, since then, has added the Columbus Crew in MLS and a minority share of the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA.

To date, Bill Haslam has exercised patience and restraint with the Predators. He has not made any significant changes to the business or hockey-operations departments, even though Nashville fell well short of expectations in 2024-25, its second season under coach Andrew Brunette. That places Bill in stark contrast to his brother, who had three different coaches in his first four full seasons as owner of an NFL team.

That measured approach should not be surprising. Haslam, a Republican, has maintained his connection to the political realm through a podcast he co-hosts with another former Tennessee Governor, Phil Bredesen, a Democrat. It is called You Might Be Right and is based on the idea that humility and respect for opposing viewpoints are essential to solving problems.

In other words, regardless of his enormous wealth or achievements in the business and political worlds, Haslam hasn’t shown the need to put his personal stamp on a franchise that has been to the playoffs nine times in the past 11 seasons and has developed a deep connection with the local fan base, which fills Bridgestone Arena (or comes close) for every game.

FEATURED BUSINESS EXECUTIVE

SEAN HENRY

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

IT WAS NEARLY A decade ago Sean Henry first publicly floated the idea of a dramatic transformation of Bridgestone Arena to ensure the building remained a viable part of a rapidly growing downtown.

Soon, his vision will be a reality. Earlier this year, Henry revealed the details of a $750-million project that will dramatically change the look and feel of the only building the Preds have ever called home. The plans include a near doubling of concourse size, relocation of the primary entrance, a transition from a primarily concrete exterior to glass, the addition of a 60,000-square-foot rooftop event space and more. The project is slated to begin after 2025-26 and to be completed in 2030. Henry hopes it will ensure Bridgestone Arena remains a place that connects generations of Preds fans.

Chris MacFarland Addresses Media For First Time As Predators GMChris MacFarland Addresses Media For First Time As Predators GMFollowing a comprehensive four-month search, Nashville’s new front office leader outlines his strategic vision to revitalize the franchise through foundational rebuilding and a winning Colorado pedigree.

GOVERNOR & ALTERNATE GOVERNORS

BILL HASLAM

ALTERNATE GOVERNORS: Tom Cigarran, Sean Henry, Michelle Kennedy, Barry Trotz

FEATURED HOCKEY EXECUTIVE

BARRY TROTZ

GENERAL MANAGER

BARRY TROTZ’S TIES TO the Predators – as the first coach in franchise history – had a lot to do with his hiring as the second GM in franchise history. It is clear, though, that his approach to his current role was shaped more by the four seasons apiece he spent as coach of the Washington Capitals and New York Islanders, which included a Stanley Cup with the Capitals.

Trotz has eschewed the patient approach that defined the 17 seasons working with his predecessor, David Poile, and has aggressively retooled the roster through trades, buyouts and free-agent spending.

To date, his approach has not had the desired impact, but it has yielded four first-round selections and three second-round picks in the past two drafts. The hope is that the resulting talent haul will pay big benefits in the not-too-distant future as a sizable part of the current roster ages out of the league.

SOCIAL MEDIA STRATEGY

WHAT SETS THE Predators apart from many other pro-sports franchises in social-media performance is the presence and activity of CEO Sean Henry on X. His account, @PREDSident, offers fans a direct connection to one of the franchise’s primary decision-makers.

Henry provides glimpses behind the scenes of the front office, a personal touch to some of the team’s business dealings, and even the occasional opportunity for lucky followers to earn last-minute tickets. On top of that, his bio includes his email address, so anyone who really wants to get in touch with him can. That accessibility has been critical to the team’s connection with a fan base that took some time to form a meaningful bond with the team, and his deft touch has kept the account from becoming simply a place for fans to air their grievances.

The focuses of the Predators’ primary social-media activities are the team’s X and Instagram accounts. Nashville ranks in the bottom third among the league’s 32 teams in X followers but provides a steady stream of content about all things related to the team on and off the ice. Particularly on game days, there is enough content (highlights, graphics, updates, etc.) to make fans feel up-to-date and informed even if they are not in the arena or tuned into the radio or television broadcasts.

There is nothing unique or cutting-edge about the approach, nor is there a sizable staff devoted to that aspect of the operation. Instead, the account showcases the efforts of others in the organization, such as team photographer John Russell, whose work from the earliest days of the franchise was greatly underappreciated but now is available to a much wider audience.

BIG 10 TEAM SPONSORS

(*listed alphabetically)

  • BET MGM
  • Bridgestone 
  • Bud Light 
  • Delta Dental 
  • Ford
  • Jack Daniels 
  • Mars Petcare
  • Nissan 
  • Regions 
  • Vanderbilt Health 
Predators Name Chris MacFarland President Of Hockey Operations & General ManagerPredators Name Chris MacFarland President Of Hockey Operations & General ManagerFresh off a successful tenure in Colorado, the veteran executive takes the reins in Nashville to navigate a pivotal offseason defined by roster restructuring and bold personnel moves.REPORT: Nashville Predators Granted Permission To Speak To Avalanche GM Chris MacFarlandREPORT: Nashville Predators Granted Permission To Speak To Avalanche GM Chris MacFarlandNashville seeks a swift conclusion to its front-office search as the Stanley Cup-winning executive meets with ownership, potentially shifting from Colorado to lead the Predators' new era.No NHL Team Benefitted More From World Championship Than Predators | Column No NHL Team Benefitted More From World Championship Than Predators | Column From Roman Josi’s MVP performance to Justus Annunen’s golden goaltending, Nashville’s stars dominated the international stage, solidifying a formidable roster and sparking a heated crease battle for next season.
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Brewers offense falters to 1-0 loss as Logan Webb dominates

Milwaukee Brewers
Jun 3, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras (24) throws to first base during the third inning against the San Francisco Giants at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Pat Murphy said it perfectly on Tuesday night about Logan Webb, “I know the kid pitching tomorrow has shoved it up our (expletive) many times.”

And shove it, he did. Webb didn’t allow a baserunner until the 6th inning and didn’t allow his first hit until there was one out in the 7th inning. The Brewers offense was held completely in check. Webb went seven shutout innings, striking out five, and allowing just five hard-hit balls all night. Four of those five that were “hard-hit” (95+ MPH exit velocity) were groundouts.

That left the Brewers basically no margin for error for their pitching staff. Robert Gasser, freshly called up from Triple-A Nashville, took a big step forward from his previous outings. Gasser dealt with traffic on the bases in the 3rd and 4th innings, but was able to get out of those jams with nothing across.

However, in the 5th inning, Gasser allowed a leadoff home run to 9-hole hitter Victor Bericoto that just made it to the Giants bullpen. That was all the Giants got and it was all they needed on Wednesday night.

“He didn’t miss very many spots, at least I know during my at bats. I got like one pitch over the heart of the plate, that was about it. When you got command and movement like he does, it’s tough” Brice Turang said.

The Brewers were able to get into the Giants bullpen in the 8th and 9th innings and they had opportunities to scratch a run across. Pinch-hitter Jackson Chourio led off the 8th with a single. Then Blake Perkins pinch-hit for Sal Frelick and popped up a sacrifice bunt attempt.

“Perk didn’t get the bunt down, that’s inexcusable.” Pat Murphy said.

Luis Rengifo followed with a walk to put two runners on base. Murphy brought in Gary Sanchez to pinch-hit for David Hamilton. The Giants countered with right hander Keaton Winn. Winn got Sanchez to ground into a double play to end the inning.

Perkins is now 0-for-his-last-17 and his last hit came on May 10th. Sanchez is 4-for-his-last-36 dating back to April 29th.

Then in the 9th inning, facing Winn again with the top of the order due up, the Brewers had another great chance. Christian Yelich led off the inning with a double. Andrew Vaughn hit a ground ball to the right side to get Yelich to third base with less than two outs. Brice Turang couldn’t put the ball in the air and struck out. Then William Contreras grounded out to end the game.

It was a tough night for the Brewers offense, getting no-hit through six innings and having numerous opportunities late that they couldn’t cash in on.

Credit must also be given to Chad Patrick, who came on in relief of Gasser and threw four shutout innings to finish the game. He kept the Brewers in it and didn’t let that Giants lead grow.

Still, the Brewers fell short and need to bounce back in Thursday’s finale to secure the series win. They’ll have to do so against an old friend in Adrian Houser. Coleman Crow will start for the Crew.

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Guardians Minor League Recap: Chourio Blasts Off

Columbus Clippers 9, Omaha Storm Chasers 8

Clippers improve to 32-25

The Columbus Clipper blasted off for nine runs on 11 hits and 10 walks Tuesday.Leading the charge offensively was Juan Brito, who went 3-for-4 with a walk and three runs scored.Bo Naylor also had a huge game, going 1-for-2 with a three-run home run, three walks and a stolen base. Angel Genao went 2-for-5 and slugged his fourth home run as well.

Cooper Ingle doubled and walked while Nolan Jones went 2-for-5 with a double, George Valera went 1-for-4 with a walk and a stolen base and C.J. Kayfus walked three times.Daniel Espino served as the opener in this game and he was tagged for two runs on one hit and one walk with two strikeouts in 1.0 innings. Unfortunately, that one hit was a two-run home run. Rorik Maltrud followed with four runs allowed on eight hits in 4.0 innings while striking out seven and walking two.

Tommy Mace and Jack Leftwich both finished off the game with 2.0 innings apiece while both allowing one run.

Akron RubberDucks 12, Bowie Baysox 15

RubberDucks fall to 28-24

Akron’s offense did its damndest, scoring 12 runs on 14 hits, but poor pitching and defense betrayed it. Jaison Chourio had one of the best games of his career, going 3-for-5 with two home runs and five runs batted in.

Nick Mitchell reached base safely three times, going 2-for-4 with a walk while Jacob Cozart went 2-for-4 with a home run and Wuilfredo Antunez also homered. In his Double-A debut, Luke Hill went 2-for-5 with a run scored, although he committed two errors at second base. Alex Mooney also went 2-for-5. Starting pitcher Khal Stephen had a rough day, allowing eight runs (five earned) on 10 hits in 4.2 innings pitched. He struck out just one batter and didn’t walk any. Carter Rustad followed by allowing six more runs, although none of them were earned in 2.0 innings.

Lake County Captains 5, Fort Wayne TinCaps 6

Captains fall to 5-6

Nolan Schubart had a strong performance, going 2-for-4 with his 10th home run of the season.Tommy Hawke had the other multi-hit game, going 2-for-4 with a stolen base.

Bennet Thompson homered as well, while Dean Curley went 1-for-3 with a walk. No one else reached base safely twice or had an extra base hit.Starting pitcher Franklin Gomez allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits with six strikeouts and two walks in 5.0 innings. Logan McGuire allowed another run in 1.1 innings while Cam Schuelke allowed one run with the game tied in the bottom of the ninth inning to take the loss, although he had pitched 2.1 innings before that.

Hill City Howlers 2, Fredericksburg Nationals 3

Howlers fall to 25-27

Juneiker Caceres and Ty Howard both went 2-for-4 with a double while Johan Rodriguez went 1-for-3 with a home run and a walk. This team needs to get some of its young injured talent back in action. Gabriel Rodriguez should hopefully be back soon.

Starting pitcher Ryan DeSanto, a 12th round pick out of Penn State, had a strong performance. He allowed one run on one hit with seven strikeouts in 4.0 innings, although he did walk five.Miguel Flores added 3.2 scoreless frames with four strikeouts and Luke Fernandez unfortunately couldn’t hold the lead, allowing two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to let the Nationals walk off.

ACL Guardians 13, ACL Cubs 6

Guardians improve to 15-9

Alejandro Blasco is making one heck of a first impression. In his 2026 debut, the 19-year-old Venezuelan prospect went 2-for-2 with two doubles and a walk on May 30. On Tuesday, he went 2-for-2 with a home run, a double and a walk. His OPS through two games is a ridiculous 3.500. Not bad for someone who spent two season in the DSL already.A rehabbing Gabriel Rodriguez went 1-for-3 with two walks. A rehabbing Welbyn Francisca went 1-for-4 with two walks and a stolen base.

Gustavo Baptista went 2-for-4 with a double and two stolen bases, Angel Abreu went 3-for-5 with a double, Randy Martinez went 1-for-2 with two walks and a stolen base and Estivel Morillo went 2-for-5 with a double. A rehabbing Yorman Gomez tossed 2.0 shutout innings. He struck out four, walked one and allowed two hits. Evan Chrest added a perfect inning with two strikeouts.

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Chris MacFarland Addresses Media For First Time As Predators GM

The Nashville Predators' new general manager Chris MacFarland met the media in Nashville today for the first time. 

It took the organization nearly four months to find a new GM; however, they got arguably the best one available. 

MacFarland was hired as both the GM and the President of Hockey Operations, which was a step up from the role he previously had with the Colorado Avalanche. 

It was a day that most Predators fans won't forget. As MacFarland talked through what is next for the organization.

First, he expressed just how happy he is to be a part of the Predators' organization.

“We can't wait to become part of the community here and dig in with my new teammates in the organization, and I’m super excited,” MacFarland said of his new opportunity. “We want to build something here…and make hockey something that's in the blood of every young Tennessee fan and build something really special.”
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After, Predators Chairman and majority owner Bill Haslam explained how they ended up landing on MacFarland to lead the club. 

“When you talk to other great general managers and presidents of hockey ops around the league, and I said, ‘If you were me, who would you go get?’ Haslam recalled. "And Chris’ name came up time and time again from the very best people in the League. And then you talk to other folks who are just associated and knew him from his time with the [Avalanche]; they all said the exact same thing. So, it took patience and took a little persistence, but I'm really thrilled to announce Chris MacFarland as our new General Manager and President of Hockey Operations for the Nashville Predators.” 
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Then, MacFarland revealed his plans as the GM of Nashville.

“I said, ‘Mr. Haslam, is the goal here to make the playoffs, make a Wild Card, feel good about that and high five each other? Or is the goal here to build a team that can compete and try to bring a Stanley Cup to Broadway?’ MacFarland asked. “And he didn't hesitate. [He said], ‘The goal here is to try and win [a Stanley Cup].’ And that's really, quite honest, all I needed to hear.”
“Obviously there's work to do here, and we're not where we want to be, but there's a lot of good pieces here, and there's a lot of draft capital,” MacFarland said. “But, ultimately the results happen on the ice, and we just want to put our players and the team in the best position to have success and make life as easy for them off the ice so that they can focus on the job at hand, which is trying to win hockey games - which is not easy to do in this League.

“We're going to look to get better. How quick that happens? The players will dictate that… [Winning] is a really hard thing to do. But I think the first step first is to build, get the foundation right, get the right people in place on the hockey side and to work with the players to help them maximize their abilities. And then, we’ll go from there.”
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As a Predators fan, this has to sound encouraging. They waited four months and got one of the league's best GMs to lead the team back in the right direction. And, based on what he said when he met the media, MacFarland is aware it's not going to be easy, but he is prepared to build this organization the right way, and that starts with a solid foundation.

Predators Name Chris MacFarland President Of Hockey Operations & General ManagerPredators Name Chris MacFarland President Of Hockey Operations & General ManagerFresh off a successful tenure in Colorado, the veteran executive takes the reins in Nashville to navigate a pivotal offseason defined by roster restructuring and bold personnel moves.REPORT: Nashville Predators Granted Permission To Speak To Avalanche GM Chris MacFarlandREPORT: Nashville Predators Granted Permission To Speak To Avalanche GM Chris MacFarlandNashville seeks a swift conclusion to its front-office search as the Stanley Cup-winning executive meets with ownership, potentially shifting from Colorado to lead the Predators' new era.
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30-32 – Streak halted as Rangers drop finale to Cardinals 5-3

Jun 3, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Texas Rangers left fielder Alejandro Osuna (19) slides but is unable to catch a double hit by St. Louis Cardinals designated hitter Nelson Velazquez (not pictured) during the third inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The Texas Rangers scored three runs but the St. Louis Cardinals scored five runs.

The bad omens just kept piling up for the Rangers tonight and it ended with them losing for the first time in nearly a week as they saw their season-best five-game winning streak snapped in the finale from St. Louis.

Bad omen No. 1: The Rangers had scored in the first inning to take a lead in three of their five wins during the winning streak. Tonight, however, they trailed after one inning as the Cardinals got a two-out RBI single that followed a glacial attempt at a potential inning-ending double play.

Bad omen No. 2: Tonight’s starter MacKenzie Gore walked two in the first inning and needed 30+ pitches to make it out of the first frame. In fact, Gore collected his fourth out overall tonight in the bottom of the second inning on pitch No. 41. Ten pitches per out is not what we’d call economical.

The left-hander had a string of solid outings to close out May but was first inefficient tonight and then, ultimately, pretty subpar as overall. Gore allowed four runs on nine hits with three walks over 4.2 innings which took him exactly 100 pitches to wade through.

Bad omen No. 3: The Cardinals kept scoring a run here and a run there throughout the night and it kept pushing Texas’ comeback chances further out of reach but the most frustrating thing was three of St. Louis’ five runs came with two outs. An extra out to squash even one of those rallies could have potentially changed Texas’ fate.

Bad omen No. 4: Despite being mired in a massive slump, former Rangers prospect Thomas Saggese collected two hits, including a triple that scored one of those two-out runs that eventually proved the difference.

All those bad markers layered throughout the game and, despite the winning streak, the Rangers still have a pretty thin margin for error on any given night. Texas got to within a couple of runs late but in the end they finally succumbed to a team from Missouri and now they’ll have to wait for another shot at returning to .500 ball.

Player of the Game: In lieu of a batter, of which no Rangers hitter had more than one hit tonight, how about 26-year old Robby Ahlstrom making his MLB debut tonight and tossing 1.1 innings of scoreless relief? The lefty struck out two Cardinals and didn’t allow a baserunner as he kept the game close after entering in the seventh.

Ahlstrom, who was drafted by the New York Yankees in 2021 but never actually suited up for any of their affiliates, was the second guy in the 2022 trade that sent Jose Trevino to New York. The Rangers have been all that Ahlstrom has known as a professional and after toiling in the Texas system for the last four seasons, he finally got the call earlier this week.

Congratulations, Robby!

Up Next: The Rangers return home to enjoy their first day off in two weeks before opening up a series at The Shed against the Cleveland Guardians beginning on Friday night.

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Guardians Clinch Series Win in Bronx

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 03: Kyle Manzardo #9 of the Cleveland Guardians celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo home run during the second inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on June 03, 2026 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Another fun one tonight. Guardians really got to Cole (for what felt like the first time ever) and tagged him for 4 runs in 5.1 innings. Manzardo continued his hot streak with a homer in his first AB today.

Chisholm homered off Gavin (who was a little shaky tonight) in the bottom of the second, and Hoskins gave the Guardians the lead in the 4th.

Caballero homered in the bottom of this inning to bring the Yankees back within a run (a homer that had questionable fan interference, although a crew chief review deemed the interference insufficient to overturn the homer).

Jose, too, stayed hot with a homer in the 6th (his 2nd of 3 hits tonight).

A Bellinger sacrifice fly brought the Yankees back within a run, but Hoskins tacked on (another) insurance run in the top of the 8th with an RBI single. This followed after Jose singled (to the wall in right) and Manzardo doubled (a 409’ flyball to the deep part of Yankee Stadium).

Cade Smith was a little shaky in the 9th, but managed to close out the game. He gave up a leadoff double to Goldschmidt, who advanced to third on a wild pitch and scored on a Bellinger sacrifice fly.

Some fun tidbits:

Jose last 10: .307/.368/.547, 8BB:8K, 3 HR, 5 SB.

Manzardo last 20: .306/.403/.629, 5 HR, 8 RBI.

Hoskins last 20: .229/.375/.500, 13BB:17K, 3 HR, 11 RBI.

The Guardians look to secure the sweep tomorrow. It’ll be Cecconi vs. Rodon.

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Alec Burleson Leads St. Louis Cardinals 11-Hit Attack to Defeat Rangers

Jun 3, 2026; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Alec Burleson (41) hits a two run double against the Texas Rangers during the third inning at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images | Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

The St. Louis Cardinals needed a game like they had Wednesday night at Busch Stadium to turn around their recent downturn. Andre Pallante gave the Cardinals a great start and many bats in the lineup were productive including Alec Burleson, Jordan Walker and Nelson Velázquez as St. Louis beat Texas.

The Cardinals did not waste any time getting the offense going as Masyn Winn walked to open up the Cardinals bottom of the 1st. After Ivan Herrera popped out, Jordan Walker hit into a fielder’s choice, but St. Louis managed to put together a 2-out rally anyway. Nelson Velázquez walked and then Alec Burleson turned on a 97 mph four-seam fastball and drove it into right field giving the Cardinals an early 1-0 lead.

The Texas Rangers would pull even (temporarily) in the top of the 3rd inning as Kyle Higashioka singled to center and then advanced to second on a wild pitch by Pallante. Two batters later, Josh Jung singled him in tying the game 1-1.

The Cardinals would retake the lead in the bottom of the 3rd inning after Jordan Walker singled and then Nelson Velázquez crushed a double giving St. Louis runners at second and third with no one out. Alec Burleson added his own double giving the Cardinals their lead back at 3-1. It could have been more, though, as Alec Burleson was stranded at third base after a fielder’s choice from Jose Fermin and strikeouts by Nolan Gorman and Thomas Saggese. Saggese would redeem himself just two innings later.

The Cardinals offense would put more runs on the board in both the bottom of the 5th and 6th innings. After Jose Fermin doubled in the Cardinals 5th, Thomas Saggese did him one better by cracking a triple to right giving St. Louis a 4-1 lead. In the bottom of the 6th, the Cardinals would start another two-out rally when Jordan Walker singled and then stole second. Nelson Velázquez would strike again singling to right and scoring Walker giving the Cardinals a somewhat secure 5-1 lead. Or, so they thought.

Andre Pallante had his best stuff working Wednesday night as he tossed 5 2/3 allowing only 1 earned run while striking out 5 and walking 2. He would be relieved by JoJo Romero who got the final out of the 6th inning getting out of a jam created by Andre, but would run into trouble himself in the top of the 7th inning. Pinch-hitter Justin Foscue doubled and then JoJo walked Higashioka. Joc Pederson made him regret it by driving a triple into the right-center field gap scoring both runners making it just 5-3 Cardinals. Fortunately, Ryne Stanek would come into the game and strikeout Josh Jung and get Brandon Nimmo to pop out stranding Pederson at third base. Stanek would stay in the game and pitch a solid top of the 8th inning that was refreshingly almost drama-free with just one single allowed.

Riley O’Brien came in to close out the top of the 9th inning in an effort to post a positive bounce-back from the disastrous Tuesday night effort. He unfortunately struggled with his control again walking the first batter he faced, Kyle Higashioka. The Rangers made the interesting choice to have Michael Helman lay down a sacrifice bunt to move Higashioka to second base. That brought up Joc Pedersen as the potential tying run. He made all of us hold our breath as he flew out to very deep left-center for the second out. Whew. The final Rangers hope, Josh Jung, popped out on the first pitch he saw to lock up a Cardinals victory at 5-3.

The Cardinals have a much-needed day off Thursday to rest up before starting a weekend homestand against the Cincinnati Reds at Busch Stadium. Kyle Leahy is the scheduled starter Friday night with Brady Singer the expected starter for the Reds. First pitch scheduled for 7:15pm central time with the TV broadcast available on Cardinals.tv.

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Who is Dylan Harper’s father? Ron Harper connection fuels Spurs rookie’s NBA Finals run

Like father, like son!

Dylan Harper is making his NBA Finals debut during his rookie season, as the San Antonio Spurs guard took on the New York Knicks in a rematch of the 1999 Finals. Game 1 was on Wednesday, June 3 in San Antonio.

The former Rutgers standout has been a key element of the Spurs' playoff run. He made a statement in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Harper had a standout night with 24 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and seven steals. At 20 years old, he became the youngest player to notch a prestigious 4x5 game in the NBA playoffs.

People might be wondering where he gets his skills, and it turns out he has good genes.

Is Dylan Harper related to Ron Harper?

Yes, Dylan Harper is related to Ron Harper. The Spurs rookie is the son of the five-time NBA champion. Ron played 15 years in the NBA. He was teammates with Michael Jordan and won three titles with the Chicago Bulls from 1996-1998. He also played with Kobe Bryant and finished his career winning back-to-back championships with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2000 and 2001.

Both Dylan and Ron were named to the All-Rookie team for their impressive accomplishments in their first professional seasons.

Dylan's older brother, Ron Harper Jr., plays in the NBA as well. He was the first brother to play at Rutgers and has spent time with the Toronto Raptors and Detroit Pistons, and he is currently on the Boston Celtics.

Ron's ex-wife and the mother of his two sons is Maria Harper. She has basketball in her blood, too, and played at the University of New Orleans.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Dylan Harper related to Ron Harper? Rookie carries NBA Finals legacy