Here are the AP’s top sports stories that have moved or are planned to move today. All times U.S. Eastern. For up-to-the minute information on AP’s coverage, visit AP Newsroom’s Coverage Plan. Sports content can be found at http://newsroom.ap.org/page/APSports.

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UPCOMING

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FBN--NFL-DRAFT-NIL

DESCRIPTION: NIL deals have allowed NFL teams to gain insight on how a young player will react to having money before getting a big contract. By Pro Football Writer Rob Maaddi

UPCOMING: By 04/09/2026 2:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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BKN--NBA-MVP RACE

DESCRIPTION: Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the MVP favorite, and rightly so. But this season, it feels like there are other legitimate candidates -- and that hasn’t always been the case in MVP balloting. By Basketball Writer Tim Reynolds. Text, photos.

UPCOMING: By 04/09/2026 3:00 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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HKN--KRAKEN-LEIWEKE

DESCRIPTION: SEATTLE -- The Seattle Kraken parted ways with their first general manager in Ron Francis, who served as the president of hockey operations for the 2025-26 season. The franchise’s fifth year of existence has been a flop, though, particularly down the stretch as the Kraken have lost 10 of their last 11 games, including eight of those in regulation. Soon, Seattle will learn how the Kraken intend to right the ship of a struggling expansion franchise. By Andrew Destin. 750 words. Photos.

UPCOMING: By 04/09/2026 3:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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FBN-NFL DRAFT-REESE’S SPOT

DESCRIPTION: COLUMBUS, Ohio - Arvell Reese could be the first defensive player off the board when the NFL Draft takes place in two weeks. Where the Ohio State standout fits best though depends on the team. Some see him as an off ball linebacker while others see him as possibly being a premier pass rusher. By Joe Reedy. 700 words, file photos.

UPCOMING: By 04/09/2026 4:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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SOC--EUROPEAN ROUNDUP

DESCRIPTION: The quarterfinals of the Europa and Conference Leagues, 1st leg.

UPCOMING: By 04/09/2026 5:15 p.m. EDT, Text, Photo

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HKN--WILD-STARS

DESCRIPTION: The Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild will meet in the first round of the NHL playoffs. Both have four games left in the regular season, including a head-to-head matchup Thursday that will help determine who gets home-ice advantage in their upcoming postseason series. The Wild have won four games in a row to pull within two points of Dallas. By Stephen Hawkins. 300 words, photos.

UPCOMING: By 04/09/2026 9:00 p.m. EDT, Text

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NEW AND DEVELOPING

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US--NCAA-ELIGIBILITY

NCAA weighs a 5-year eligibility limit for college athletes that would start at 19 or HS graduation

SUMMARY: The Associated Press has learned an NCAA panel is scheduled to discuss potential changes to eligibility rules that would incorporate age into the process. Two people with knowledge of the situation told AP the proposal would give athletes five years of eligibility with the clock starting at the earliest of two dates: either when they turn 19 or graduate high school. The people did not want their names used because the NCAA hasn’t publicly discussed the proposal.

WORDS: 722 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 1:30 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:9a3ea80d149e60a79aef026b80f5748b&mediaType=text

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SOC--IRANIAN AMERICANS-WORLD CUP

Iranian American soccer fans are torn between pride and protest as the World Cup nears

SUMMARY: Many Iranian soccer fans in the U.S. have conflicting emotions about their homeland’s beloved national team as the World Cup comes to North America. Some don’t plan to cheer for Iran because they say the players didn’t speak out against the Islamic republic’s leadership after its deadly crackdown on protesters in January. Others say they plan to attend Iran’s games bearing signs of protest. And still others say they’ll set politics aside to enjoy the rare chance to see Iran compete on soccer’s biggest stage in their own backyard. All of this is assuming the team actually takes part, which Iranian officials called into question because of the country’s ongoing war with the United States and Israel.

WORDS: 1162 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 1:24 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:f6da62f387eb3664e15845afc726c4ff&mediaType=text

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HKN--SID VS OVI-THROUGH THE YEARS

Sid and Ovi through the years: A look at the Crosby-Ovechkin rivalry as its final acts loom

SUMMARY: Is one of the NHL’s best rivalries nearing an end? Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin will meet for the 100th and 101st time during their Hall of Fame careers when the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals play twice on the final weekend of the season. Ovechkin, the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, says he will decide this summer whether to return for a 22nd season. The popularity of both players since their debut in 2005 helped the NHL bounce back from a lockout. The two have combined to win four Stanley Cups and five Hart Trophies as the league’s MVP.

WORDS: 1223 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 1:20 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:8f6f36933fae6e0e26c8b318e1ea1c68&mediaType=text

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BKO--MARCH MADNESS PAYOUTS

Big Ten earns nearly $70M in March Madness incentives for appearing and advancing in tournaments

SUMMARY: The Big Ten amassed nearly $70 million in revenue from NCAA distributions awarded for team appearances and performances in the 2026 men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. The Big Ten swept the national championships with Michigan winning the men’s and UCLA the women’s. The Southeastern Conference totaled $56.2 million. Distributions will total $42.9 million for the Big 12, $34.2 million for the Atlantic Coast Conference and $22.2 million for the Big East. The NCAA since 1991 has rewarded conferences for having its teams appear and advance in the men’s tournament. A similar system for the women’s tournament began in 2025.

WORDS: 690 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 1:13 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:3ba87a900d29fb78b977fe67c84d81b3&mediaType=text

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GLF--MASTERS-SCHAUFFELE-IN THE BAG

Schauffele’s drive appears to land in a viewer’s merchandise bag. It didn’t stop him from making par

SUMMARY: Xander Schauffele’s tee shot on the par-5 eighth hole at Augusta National appeared to come to rest in somebody’s merchandise bag. Schauffele used a tee to mark the spot, removed the ball and then handed off the bag to a woman in a pink and white outfit. He was able to play on without penalty and made par. Schauffele finished the front nine in 1 under in the first round of the Masters. He nearly made a birdie from a bunker on No. 9, splashing out to within a few inches of the hole.

WORDS: 139 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 1:11 p.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:23eb5daf0757d066a6355131b9662744&mediaType=text

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GLF--MASTERS-HONORARY STARTERS

A wild hook and a big leg kick as Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson open the Masters

SUMMARY: Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson got the Masters underway, hitting the ceremonial first tee shots on a postcard-perfect day at Augusta National. Player and Watson struck their shots down the middle while Nicklaus was left laughing at himself after hitting a low hook toward the patrons lining the left side of the first fairway. The honorary starter has been a tradition at Augusta National since 1963, when Jock Hutchinson and Fred McLeod hit the opening shots. One of the big questions is how much longer the 90-year-old Player and 86-year-old Nicklaus will perform the duties, and who might be asked to serve in the role next.

WORDS: 582 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 11:23 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:09e6e4ba8639e2038c72f87444a2c32d&mediaType=text

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GLF--MASTERS-WOODS-PLAYER

Gary Player says Tiger Woods’ pain medication is understandable but he shouldn’t be driving

SUMMARY: Gary Player believes Tiger Woods should avoid driving because of his medication use for pain management. Player spoke after hitting honorary tee shots at the Masters about Woods’ recent arrest for driving under the influence. Authorities found Woods impaired with painkillers in his possession after a crash. Player sympathizes with Woods’ pain but stresses the danger of driving under medication. Woods announced he would miss the Masters to focus on recovery. He has faced multiple surgeries and a previous arrest related to painkillers. Many in the golf community, including Jason Day, have expressed sympathy but agree Woods shouldn’t be driving.

WORDS: 741 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 11:09 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:a2e5b4194fc2a0dbc0dc1d91132f7b1f&mediaType=text

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CAR--INDYCAR-HERTA

Colton Herta’s Indianapolis 500 hopes blocked by Formula 2 calendar change

SUMMARY: Colton Herta’s hopes of returning to the Indianapolis 500 in the middle of his bid to reach Formula 1 have taken a hit with a calendar clash after Formula 2 races were rescheduled. The 25-year-old IndyCar star made the move to F2 this season with an eye on the super license points needed to race in F1 with Cadillac as its first American driver. F2 has scheduled two extra rounds of its championship alongside F1’s Miami Grand Prix and the Canadian Grand Prix, both next month. The race in Montreal clashes with the Indianapolis 500 on May 24.

WORDS: 356 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 11:07 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:31e95dd966ffd171bd4ddc76806e5adc&mediaType=text

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HKN--HOCKEY DENTISTRY

Olympic hero Jack Hughes has new chiclets as NHL dentists get a moment in the spotlight

SUMMARY: Jack Hughes became famous for scoring the Olympic gold-medal-winning goal in overtime for the United States against Canada. His gap-toothed grin was just as famous afer getting his front teeth knocked out earlier in the game. It underscored the importance of hockey dentists and the work they do. The special responsibilities of dentists can include on-site root canals, sutures and more. Dentists are key in a sport where sticks, pucks and everything else can cause mouth damage that players are eager to shake off so they can get back on the ice. Hughes has already had his teeth fixed.

WORDS: 1351 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 10:25 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:97c5e8c02a9956d09ade2e59a79bf0d8&mediaType=text

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GLF--MASTERS-MCILROY

Jack Nicklaus says Rory McIlroy has ‘very, very good chance to repeat’ as Masters champion

SUMMARY: Jack Nicklaus believes Rory McIlroy could win the Masters back-to-back at Augusta National. Nicklaus, who was the first to achieve this feat in 1965 and 1966, praised McIlroy’s talent. McIlroy ended years of near misses by beating Justin Rose in a playoff last year. Nicklaus noted the challenge of repeating, recalling how course conditions changed dramatically between his wins. McIlroy, set to tee off Thursday, feels more relaxed this year after his 2025 victory. He remains motivated to win but is enjoying the perks of being a champion.

WORDS: 359 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 10:05 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:3b63b146838436c2489a32c9f91d0d9f&mediaType=text

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ENT--BOX-MANNY PACQUIAO

Manny Pacquiao takes over Floyd Mayweather’s old gym amid rematch tension between the boxing rivals

SUMMARY: Manny Pacquiao is preparing for a rematch with Floyd Mayweather on September 19 in Las Vegas. The fight is surrounded by controversy, with Mayweather calling it an exhibition, while Pacquiao insists it’s a professional bout. Pacquiao’s team claims multiple signed agreements confirm the fight’s status. Meanwhile, Pacquiao is transforming a former Mayweather gym in Hollywood into Pacquiao Prime Boxing, a private training center. This move symbolizes a new direction, focusing on performance and athlete development. Beyond boxing, Pacquiao is expanding his business ventures, including a digital wallet platform and plans for more gyms.

WORDS: 952 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 10:00 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:462f55e2f16b6bd2ec6a87c01e9c7082&mediaType=text

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BBO--SALARIES

AP study: MLB average salary hits a record $5.34M as the Mets lead spending again

SUMMARY: Major League Baseball’s average salary rose 3.4% on opening day to a record $5.34 million, according to a study by The Associated Press, and the New York Mets topped spending at the season’s start for the fourth straight year. Mets outfielder Juan Soto is the highest-paid player for the second consecutive season at $61.9 million and was followed by New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger at $42.5 million. Philadelphia pitcher Zack Wheeler and Mets third baseman Bo Bichette tied for third at $42 million, followed by Toronto first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at $40.2 million and Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge at $40 million.

WORDS: 803 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 9:54 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:d11458cc331fffa46a30f346b5ca395a&mediaType=text

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BOX--FURY-MAKHMUDOV PREVIEW

Tyson Fury faces bear-wrestling Arslanbek Makhmudov in his latest comeback to heavyweight boxing

WORDS: 639 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 6:28 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:19f6ef183c5360c051c506b7efab8e16&mediaType=text

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GLF--MASTERS

Scheffler, McIlroy, DeChambeau lead star-studded field at Masters

SUMMARY: Scottie Scheffler feels rested, Bryson DeChambeau confident, and Rory McIlroy pressure-free as they lead a star-studded field at the 90th Masters. The tournament begins Thursday morning at Augusta National. McIlroy, the defending champion, enjoys a relaxed approach after winning last year. He’s not letting pressure get to him despite the challenge of repeating. Scheffler, seeking his third Masters title, is the favorite despite recent struggles. DeChambeau, coming off two wins on the LIV Tour, aims for his first Masters victory. Notably absent are Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, both dealing with personal issues.

WORDS: 711 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 6:00 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:4cac3c8183edff303483cb655f4a4ed5&mediaType=text

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SOC--ENGLISH PREVIEW

From Premier League champion to survival mode, Liverpool’s season is on the brink

WORDS: 641 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 5:16 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:760f42e4d385dfcece4847940d114b50&mediaType=text

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BKN--THUNDER-TOP SEED

Thunder lock up the No. 1 seed for the 3rd straight season, putting the champs in elite NBA company

SUMMARY: For the third straight season, the road to the NBA title goes through Oklahoma City. And this latest No. 1 seed has put the Thunder in some storied basketball company. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and his defending champs became the seventh team in NBA history to win its conference’s regular-season title in at least three consecutive seasons when Oklahoma City wrapped up the No. 1 overall seed in the upcoming playoffs with a 128-110 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. The list of NBA teams who topped their conference standings in three straight years encompasses most of the greatest groups of the past half-century.

WORDS: 830 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 2:31 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:c5488670e41b9d405ef235e91180df10&mediaType=text

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HKN--OILERS-MCDAVID

Connor McDavid nets hat trick on 5-point night as Oilers surge into first place in Pacific Division

SUMMARY: The best way for the Edmonton Oilers to shake off a tough loss was to let Connor McDavid take over the game. One night after his team squandered three separate leads in an overtime defeat at Utah, McDavid delivered the kind of performance Edmonton needed. He scored three goals for his 15th career hat trick and added two assists in a 5-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks that moved the Oilers into sole possession of first place in the Pacific Division.

WORDS: 630 - MOVED: 04/09/2026 1:56 a.m. EDT

https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search?query=itemid:f4e52d3c518d99c96b74946978766c1f&mediaType=text

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MOVING TOMORROW ___

—Masters

—FBN--NFL Draft-Shrinking Pipeline

—BBO--Mariners-Ichiro