Cowboys Rally Past Jets with Dominant 37-22 Win

By Cedric Bailey LaVida News, Sports Editor / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo by Vincent Carchietta

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The Dallas Cowboys made their first of two trips to MetLife Stadium on Sunday and walked away with a commanding 37-22 victory over the New York Jets, showcasing grit, depth, and renewed confidence.

Quarterback Dak Prescott led the charge, throwing for four touchdowns, while running back Javonte Williams powered the ground game with 135 yards and a score. Rookie wideout Ryan Flournoy emerged as a surprise star, racking up 114 receiving yards. Tight end Jake Ferguson added two touchdown catches—the first multi-score game of his career.

Head coach Brian Schottenheimer, who emphasized “culture” since his introduction in January, saw that philosophy pay off in a big way. With five starters and three key rotational players sidelined, his “next man up” mentality was on full display. “I’m just so proud,” Schottenheimer said after the game. “We went in there with four new offensive linemen, receivers still learning and growing, and a defense that showed what it’s capable of. It’s all about winning, and we found a way to win.”

The Cowboys (2-2-1) exploded in the second quarter, outscoring the Jets 20-0 to build a 23-3 halftime lead. Despite a shorthanded offensive line, Dallas’ attack looked sharp and balanced. The defense, led by tackle Kenny Clark, produced five sacks of Jets quarterback Justin Fields—matching their total from the previous four weeks combined—and held New York to a season-low 22 points. “We just leaned on our physicality and how we practiced,” Clark said. “It’s all about accountability and coming in with the right mindset. I’m proud of our heart and how hard we played.”

Dallas now turns its attention to another road matchup next week against the struggling Carolina Panthers. The Cowboys expect reinforcements, with linemen Tyler Guyton and Tyler Smith, along with running back Miles Sanders, likely to return from injury.

As Schottenheimer’s squad works to regain full health, Sunday’s performance proved one thing: this Cowboys team has the culture, resilience, and depth to fight through adversity—and win big on the road.

Eagles Run Over Roos, Look to Continue Success Against Neers

By Sam Little, HS and College Reporter for BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Crowley ISD

Antayvious Ellis (1) makes his first touchdown catch against Weatherford.

CROWLEY, Texas – Crowley High School celebrated homecoming in style Friday night, defeating Weatherford 40-8 behind a dominant rushing attack and a suffocating defense. The Eagles opened district play with a statement win, using a powerful ground game and a defense now dubbed the “Purple People Eaters” to shut down the Kangaroos.

Crowley posted its highest point total of the season, led by junior quarterback Kendrick Kennedy, who rushed for 103 yards and two touchdowns. Kennedy also passed for 147 yards and two scores. Junior running back Kenyon Cotton continued his impressive season with 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns, moving closer to the 1,000-yard mark.

Junior wide receiver Antavious Ellis was Kennedy’s top target, hauling in 10 receptions for 108 yards and both of Kennedy’s touchdown passes. The Eagles’ defense, widely regarded as the best in the district, showed why by forcing four turnovers and keeping Weatherford’s offense in check all night. Senior linebacker Elizjah Henderson and junior Rylon Fowler each recorded their first sacks of the season.

Crowley limited Weatherford’s DJ Quimby, the district’s leading rusher, to just 23 yards on 10 carries. Quarterback Cutter Kennedy, ranked second in the district in passing, was held to 98 yards and threw three interceptions. The Roos didn’t cross midfield until the fourth quarter.

Next up for Crowley (1-0 in district) is a road game against Boswell. The Pioneers (2-3) are seeking their first district win after a 34-12 loss to Mansfield. They own victories over Haltom and Denton Braswell, with losses to Saginaw, Forney, and Mansfield.

Boswell is led offensively by junior running back Jace Richardson, who ranks fourth in the district with 531 rushing yards. Junior quarterback Djmarques Lords has thrown for 359 yards and is among the district’s top 10 passers. Defensively, the Pioneers will lean on junior linebacker Maui Peters-Alo, who has 41 tackles, and junior defensive backs Kanyon Diaz and Isaac Bondonga, who have three pass breakups apiece.

Boswell also boasts the top special teams unit in the district. Diaz averages 37 yards per punt, including a long of 70, while sophomore Ben Perez leads in kickoff yardage with an average of 55 yards per kick. To improve to 2-0 in district play, Crowley will look to continue its success on the ground and rely on its opportunistic defense. The Eagles have averaged 341 rushing yards and forced three turnovers per game over the last three weeks.

Can’t make it to the game? Tune in to the game at BGCSports.net. Coverage begins at 6:50 p.m. with the Coach’s Edge Pregame Show, followed by kickoff at 7 p.m.

Cowboys, Packers Battle to Wild 40-40 Tie at AT&T Stadium

By Cedric Bailey - Sports Editor LaVida News / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Dallas Cowboys

ARLINGTON, Texas – In a back-and-forth thriller that had fans on the edge of their seats, the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers ended in a dramatic 40-40 tie Sunday at AT&T Stadium.The Packers salvaged the draw on the final play of overtime when kicker Brandon McManus drilled a 34-yard field goal as the clock expired. The result leaves Green Bay at 2-1-1 heading into its bye week, while Dallas sits at 1-2-1. 

The game had no shortage of twists. Green Bay jumped out to a 13-0 lead behind quarterback Jordan Love, who finished with 337 yards and three touchdowns. But Dallas stormed back late in the first half, fueled by a blocked PAT returned for two points and a strip-sack of Love that set up a go-ahead touchdown pass to George Pickens just before halftime. The Cowboys went into the break leading 16-13.From there, it was a shootout. Both teams traded touchdowns and field goals throughout the second half. With 43 seconds remaining in regulation, Dak Prescott hit Pickens for a go-ahead score, only for McManus to tie the game at 37 with a booming 53-yarder as time expired.

In overtime, Dallas struck first with a 22-yard field goal from Brandon Aubrey after the Packers’ defense stiffened inside the 5-yard line. Green Bay responded with a grinding drive of its own, but Love’s last shot at the end zone fell incomplete before McManus connected again to seal the tie. Statistically, both quarterbacks shined. Prescott went 31-of-40 for 319 yards and three touchdowns, while Pickens was his top target, hauling in eight passes for 134 yards and two scores. Running back Javonte Williams added 85 rushing yards and a touchdown.

For Green Bay, Love’s efficiency stood out with a 118.1 passer rating. Running back Josh Jacobs powered the offense with 83 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and another 71 receiving yards. Wideout Romeo Doubs was a scoring machine, catching all three of Love’s touchdown passes. The tie capped off a game filled with explosive plays, costly turnovers, and clutch kicks. Both teams now turn their attention to regrouping—Dallas looking to climb out of its early hole, and Green Bay hoping to build on its resilience after the bye.

There’s No Place Like “HOME-COMING”

By Sam Little – HS and College Reporter / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo Courtesy of Crowley ISD

CROWLEY, Texas — The Crowley Eagles are finally back home for a game against the Weatherford Kangaroos. Friday’s matchup will serve as homecoming and marks the Eagles’ first home game since August 29^th, 2025.

Crowley wrapped up a tough non-district schedule at 1-3, losing by an average of 13 points. Last week, the Eagles dropped a heartbreaker to Tyler Legacy, 38-35, after rallying from a 24-7 halftime deficit. Junior quarterback Kendrick Kennedy entered the game in the third quarter and helped spark the comeback. He finished with 151 rushing yards, 102 passing yards and four total touchdowns — three on the ground and one through the air.

Junior running back Kenyon Cotton turned in another standout performance with 224 rushing yards and a touchdown. Senior tight end Julius Cogbill recorded his first touchdown reception of the season. The Eagles’ defense came alive in the second half. Senior linebacker Matthias Martin racked up 10 tackles and snagged his first interception of the season. Junior cornerback Amari Bartee added six tackles, and forced and recovered a key fumble on special teams to swing momentum in Crowley’s favor.

Statistically, Crowley’s defense has quietly emerged as the top unit in the district. The Eagles are allowing just 298 total yards per game and aim to tighten those numbers in district play. Weatherford enters the matchup with a 1-3 record and is coming off a 60-17 loss to Royse City.Offensively, the Kangaroos will lean on junior running back DJ Quinby and junior quarterback Cutter Kennedy. Quinby leads the district with 685 rushing yards, while Kennedy ranks second in passing yards with 828. University of Houston commit Rhett Gray anchors the offensive line.

Defensively, the Roos aim to stay balanced and tackle effectively. Houston commit Liam Riley leads the unit from the linebacker position, while senior linebacker William Merritt ranks third in the district with 39 tackles through four games. For Crowley to secure a homecoming win, the offense will need to replicate its second-half performance against Tyler Legacy. Over the last two games, the Eagles are averaging 369 rushing yards per game.

Weatherford’s defense is allowing 43 points per game while the offense is scoring 26 — but don’t be misled by the numbers. With explosive playmakers on both sides of the ball, the Roos remain a dangerous team capable of scoring in a hurry. Can’t make it to the game? BGCsports Network has you covered. Tune in at 6:50 p.m. on BGCSports.net for the Coach’s Edge Pregame Show with head coach Carlos Lynn. Kickoff is set for 7PM. 

Cowboys Edge Giants in a ‘Thriller”

Schottenheimer Earns First Win as Head Coach

By Cedric Bailey – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo Courtesy of Dallas Cowboys

Arlington: Brian Schottenheimer’s debut victory as an NFL head coach was anything but ordinary. In a back-and-forth battle at AT&T Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys escaped with a 40-37 win over the New York Giants, evening their record at 1-1.

While the win was a welcome rebound from a season-opening loss, Schottenheimer made it clear that there’s still plenty of work to be done.

“I told the guys, ‘This is called coaching. It’s not criticism,’” Schottenheimer said after reviewing game film. “Overall, we need to start faster. We wanted the defense to set the tempo, and although they eventually held the Giants to a field goal after an 18-play drive, that’s not how we want to open games.”

The defense bent but didn’t break early, holding New York to a pair of field goals. Still, the secondary had a rough night, surrendering 450 passing yards and three touchdowns to Russell Wilson, while giving up seven explosive plays downfield. Despite the lapses, Schottenheimer believes adjustments can turn things around.

On offense, Dallas stumbled out of the gate with back-to-back three-and-outs and fell behind in time of possession. But the unit roared to life in the second half, piling up 478 total yards and 30 points after halftime—including a decisive 20-point outburst in the fourth quarter.

“It’s not easy to win in this league,” Schottenheimer said. “But when you do, it gives you a chance to coach even harder. Our guys showed fight, competitive stamina, and the will to win. That’s something we can build on.”

The Cowboys also made headlines off the field, finalizing a one-year contract with veteran pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney. The deal reunites Clowney with defensive passing game coordinator Andre Curtis and Schottenheimer, who previously worked with him earlier in his career.

With their first victory of the season secured and new firepower added to the defense, the Cowboys look ahead with optimism—but also a clear awareness that improvement is still necessary if they hope to contend in a tough NFC race.

Eagles Look to "Get back on track” in Space City

By Sam Little – HS & College Reporter for BGCSN / BGCSN2,

Photo courtesy of Crowley High School

Junior running back Kenyon Cotton (20) stiff-arms a Birdville defender during the Eagles’ 34-27 loss last Friday night.

GALENA PARK, Texas — After a stunning 34-27 upset loss to Birdville, the Crowley Eagles look to rebound against state powerhouse Galena Park North Shore.

Crowley will make the return trip down I-45 to Houston after the Mustangs visited Crowley ISD Municipal Stadium last season and defeated the Eagles 28-13. This will mark the first time in school history that Crowley will travel to Houston for a regular-season game.

In their Week 1 loss to Birdville, Crowley showed flashes of offensive potential. Senior quarterback Josh Lowe went 18-of-28 for 246 yards and two touchdowns, while junior running back Kenyen Cotton rushed for 127 yards.

On defense, senior linebacker Tyler Hooper recorded seven total tackles, including three for loss and one sack. Senior defensive lineman Jayden Terry added five tackles, including two for loss and one fumble recovery.   

North Shore suffered its first Week 1 loss since 2019 at the hands of the Dallas South Oak Cliff Golden Bears, 41-31. The Mustangs were making the return trip to Dallas after winning last year’s matchup 38-0 in Houston. Utah State commit Kaleb Maryland led North Shore with 286 passing yards and three touchdowns through the air, along with two rushing touchdowns.

This game will be a big test for the Crowley Eagles, who will not return home until late September for homecoming against Weatherford. Crowley will need to start the “Texas 3-step” in the right direction with a program-defining win in Houston.

BGCsports predicts a close game, with North Shore defeating Crowley 34-31.

Can’t make it to the game? BGC Sports has you covered. Tune in at 6:50 p.m. Friday for the broadcast, starting with the Coaches Edge Pregame Show featuring Head Coach Carlos Lynn. 

Eagles Looking to Soar Higher in 2025

By Sam Little - Reporter for BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Crowley High School

CROWLEY, Texas —  Coming off their best season since 1971, the Crowley Eagles are looking to take the next step. After falling in the third round to Denton Guyer, the Eagles enter the 2025 football season hungrier than ever. Dave Campbell’s Texas Football picked Crowley to finish second in the district, behind crosstown rival and defending state champion North Crowley. Rounding out the district standings are Mansfield, Mansfield Legacy, Saginaw Boswell, Weatherford and Mansfield Lake Ridge.

With the graduation of senior quarterback Caleb Williams, the Eagles will rely heavily on four-star junior wide receiver Antayvious “Tay” Ellis, who is ranked the No. 86 player in the class of 2027, according to Rivals. Ellis caught 56 passes for 800 yards and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore and has received more than 30 Division I offers. He won’t be the only playmaker on offense. Junior Kenyon Cotton returns as the featured running back after rushing for more than 1,120 yards last season. Junior tackle Alexander “Big Country” Herrera, who holds 18 Division I offers, will anchor the offensive line. Senior tight end Julius Cogbill is also expected to contribute after receiving his second offer to play college football.

On the defensive side, the Eagles bring back one of the most talented secondaries in the district. Senior cornerback and Oklahoma State commit Brandon Ford returns alongside senior defensive back Jaleel Allen, who holds multiple Power Four offers. Linebacker Tyler Hooper is another name to watch, as he continues to pick up collegiate interest. The Eagles will open the season at home with a rematch against Birdville. Crowley will then head down I-45 for a matchup with Galena Park North Shore, followed by a trip to Dallas to face Skyline. Next, the Eagles will make the 140-mile drive east to take on Tyler Legacy.

Crowley returns home for its homecoming game against the Weatherford Kangaroos, then hits the road to face Saginaw Boswell. The Eagles will then begin the “Mansfield tour,” hosting Mansfield and Mansfield Lake Ridge—Lake Ridge will also serve as senior night—before traveling to face Mansfield Legacy. The final game of the regular season will be the highly anticipated “Crosstown Showdown” against North Crowley. Last season, North Crowley head coach Ray Gates sparked headlines during a pregame speech by referring to Crowley as “the school across the street.” The Panthers have won six straight meetings against the Eagles, dating back to 2014.

With a talented roster, a tough schedule and unfinished business from last season, the Eagles have all the ingredients for a memorable 2025 campaign. Expectations are high on Main Street in Crowley, and if the team can stay healthy and capitalize on its returning talent, a deep playoff run could be within reach. One thing is certain — don’t be surprised if the Eagles are still playing after Thanksgiving.

LIV GOLF DALLAS 2025

Day 2

By Dave Michaels – Sports Reporter / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of David Mulenthal – North Texas Sports Network

Carrollton, Texas; the second day of the LIV Golf Tournament that settles in the NORTHWEST side of Dallas, Texas in the community known as Carrollton, Texas.

The Course is the old Columbia Country Club, that was home to the most prominent Jewish Families in the Dallas area. Those who were not admitted to other country Clubs in the areas in which they were living in.

Imagine, being one of the most successful business men in the area, with names like Marcus, and Schepps, and Goldstein, just to name a few, but not allowed to join clubs such as the Dallas Athletic, or the Park Cities country club in Highland Park, even though you lived there, had business’ there, yet they (at the time) discriminated against you because of your faith.

Columbia Country Club was created in the late 1800’s in Dallas, moved to the farm land in Carrollton, and created a golf community with one of the most prestigious country clubs in the country. The restaurant inside the club house was exquisite, top notch cuisine, and entertainment, just imagine the weddings, the Bar & Bat Mitzvahs that were there, and just the regular weekend gatherings.

In the 2000’s the club fell on hard times and a Billionaire took the property, all 200 acres of it, and the 55, 000 square foot Club House, and turned into an event that brings the PARTY to YOU with the LIV GOLF TOURNAMENT!

Think Byron Nelson Pavillion/meets European Football! (Soccer) its TEAM GOLF and Shotgun Starts, and Music blaring, and the atmosphere is hopping!

This not your DAD’S GOLF! No this is Hitting a golf ball with people cheering you on as you get to the tee, and when you get to the green it just gets more loud! This event is nothing like you have experienced if you ever played the game, followed the game, been to a tournament, its sights and sounds like you have never seen before.

The Players! They dress alike in TEAM uniforms, shirts, hats, and with team names such as:
4Aces GC
Crushers GC
Legion XIII E
Fireballs GC
Stingers GC

And you get the idea! These are the TEAMS names and on each team there are four players—again they start off as a SHOTGUN start, meaning every Hole on the 18 hole golf course has a team teeing off at the same time. So at 12noon CDT they begin the 2^nd round of golf and its scores as a team, as a individual, and the prize money is just RIDICULOUS!

PGA players that have joined the LIV are as familiar as you would expect—Mickelson, Ogletree, Koepka , Watson and Campbell. Just to name a handful.

This all started a few years back, as a Prince from Saudi Arabia put it together, threw lots of dollars at these players, and they jumped onto this concept to play, and the PGA was none too happy about it, there was a rift between these players, as the PGA was thinking about pulling their PGA Cards if they continued to play this tournament, taking away from the prestige of the PGA in their tournaments such as the big four—Masters, PGA OPEN, THE USA OPEN and the British Open (just known as “THE OPEN”), However, that dust has settled and players bounce back and forth and are able to play either tour.

The one thing you notice at this tournament, versus the others that are played here locally, such as the Nelson or Colonial, is that the media that covers it are not the usual faces you would see in the media center.

You don’t see the local papers (Dallas Morning News or Ft Worth Star Telegram),  haven’t seen the local TV Stations during the day—they might be here later in the round—but not early, unlike the other tournaments, there are not any Radio broadcast from the media center for updates or interviews, or any other coverage.

For some that lacks the charm that the other tournaments havee, but for this one—it makes sense since they have the CONCERT feel to it throughout the day. Loud Music pumped through Speakers all along the course, the EMCEE at the 1^st tee introducing groups as they come through—and getting the crowd cheering for some familiar names, like Bubba Watson, or Phil Mickelson, or Sergio Garcia, as they tee off—and the crowd is , loud for each of those names, but the loudest is the local player, Bryson DeChambeau, the young man who played his college golf at the same place as the late Payne Stewart—Southern Methodist University (SMU) on the Hilltop! So much did he admire the late golfer he paid homage by wearing an anachronistic flat cap (also at times known as a Tam O’Shanter) the same that Stewart and Ben Hogan wore.

As DeChambeau walks the course—in his team colors of the CRUSHERS along with teammates Adrean Lahiri, Paul Casey, and Charles Howell III, they (as a team) have their work cut out for them at the Dallas turn of the LIV GOLF Tournament.

One observer noted that the players are more accessible at this tournament that at others in the area, so they will stop and sign autographs coming off the Driving Range or the Putting Green area, they will talk with patrons, they interact with the crowd, but its all business once they line up over the ball and strike it. As said before—this is NOT your Dad’s PGA!

Third and FINAL round for the LIV GOLF DALLAS tournament from the Maridone Golf Course in Carrollton is set for Sunday—teeing off at 12noon and can be seen on FOX’s FS2 for coverage.
 

Eight Legends Inducted into Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame Class of 2025

By Cedric Bailey, News Director – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of the Cotton Bowl – 05/26/25

ARLINGTON, Texas — The storied history of the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic welcomed eight new legends on Monday as the Class of 2025 was officially inducted into the Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame in a ceremony that celebrated their contributions to one of college football’s most iconic bowl games. This year’s class spans generations and roles—players, coaches, and leaders who have shaped the game on and off the field. Honorees include Notre Dame fullback Jerome Bettis, Texas linebacker Randy Braband, Ole Miss head coach David Cutcliffe, Nebraska running back Tony Davis, Auburn star Bo Jackson, Alabama linebacker DeMeco Ryans, longtime Cotton Bowl Athletic Association (CBAA) ambassador Fin Ewing III, and CBAA historian Charlie Fiss.

“Today is a special day to celebrate the contributions of eight extraordinary individuals who have impacted our game and our organization in so many positive ways,” said CBAA Chair W. Kelvin Walker. “The Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic is honored to have these legends now a permanent part of our history.” Each inductee received a personalized bronze statue in the image of a 1930s football player, paying tribute to the era when the Classic was born.

Among the standouts was Texas linebacker Randy Braband, who etched his name in Cotton Bowl lore with a game-saving tackle in the Longhorns' 1973 upset over No. 4 Alabama. Braband played in three Cotton Bowl Classics, recording 33 tackles across his appearances, including 19 in that victory alone. Jerome “The Bus” Bettis powered Notre Dame to a commanding 28–3 win over Texas A&M in the 1993 Cotton Bowl, scoring three touchdowns and accounting for 18 of the Irish’s points. Similarly, Bo Jackson, Auburn’s Heisman Trophy winner, dazzled fans in the 50th Cotton Bowl with a record 31 carries for 129 yards, including a breathtaking 73-yard touchdown on a screen pass. Nebraska’s Tony Davis, known as the “Tecumseh Tornado,” bullied his way to 106 rushing yards and a touchdown in the 1974 game, helping head coach Tom Osborne secure his first bowl win.

From the sidelines, coach David Cutcliffe led Ole Miss to a 10-win season—their first in 32 years—capped by a 31–28 triumph over Oklahoma State in the 2004 Cotton Bowl. His Rebels held off a late rally with a game-clinching drive that ran out the clock. Alabama linebacker DeMeco Ryans was a force in the Tide’s 13–10 win over Texas Tech in 2006. Ryans notched seven tackles, including 1.5 sacks, and was named the game’s Outstanding Defensive Player. He also stood out academically, graduating with honors as the university’s top male student-athlete.  Away from the field, Fin Ewing III and Charlie Fiss were recognized for decades of service. Ewing played a crucial role in the CBAA’s move to AT&T Stadium and helped lead numerous committees. Fiss, a cornerstone of the Cotton Bowl’s media and communications efforts since 1985, was instrumental in the creation and continuation of the Hall of Fame itself. With this year’s inductees, the Hall of Fame now honors 93 individuals who have helped build the legacy of the Cotton Bowl Classic.

Wings Soar in Preseason Finale with Dominant 119-52 Victory

By Cedric Bailey – News Director / BGCSN /BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Dallas Wings 05/10/25

Arlington: The Dallas Wings closed out their preseason with an emphatic statement on Saturday night, dismantling the Toyota Antelopes 119-52 at College Park Center. With seven players scoring in double figures, the Wings showcased the kind of firepower and depth that could make them a formidable force in the upcoming WNBA season. Star guard Arike Ogunbowale led the way with 17 points, followed closely by top draft pick Paige Bueckers, who chipped in 15 points in her professional preseason debut. Maddy Siegrist added 14 in a well-rounded offensive explosion.

“It felt great to be out there with this group,” Bueckers said after the game. “We’re building something here in Dallas—something that we want to last.” The Wings, who finished a disappointing 9-31 last season, are entering the 2025 campaign with a fresh identity under new leadership. General Manager Curt Miller and Head Coach Chris Koclanes headline a revamped front office, while Bueckers arrives as the No. 1 overall pick, carrying high expectations and confidence.

“We talked about how we're building the foundation for what we want the Dallas Wings to look like,” Bueckers said. “I want to use my voice, build confidence within my teammates, challenge them, support them.” Miller didn’t stop with Bueckers. He reshaped the roster this offseason, acquiring DiJonai Carrington, NaLyssa Smith, and Tyasha Harris via trade, and signing Myisha Hines-Allen in free agency. The goal: to surround Bueckers and Ogunbowale with a competitive supporting cast.

“We just feed off each other,” said Ogunbowale. “We want a team full of great players ready to compete and ready to be successful, and that's what we have.” The Wings will look to carry this momentum into the regular season, which tips off May 16 at home against the Minnesota Lynx. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT, with national coverage on ION.

The WNBA’s 29th season features a record-high 44 games per team and a new best-of-seven format for the WNBA Finals presented by YouTube TV. With a retooled roster and new energy in the locker room, the Dallas Wings are ready to turn the page—and possibly the standings—in 2025.

“Browns Make A Splash”, Land QB Shedeur Sanders in Fifth Round

By Cedric Bailey – News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of the NFL

CLEVELAND — With the 144th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns made one of the weekend’s most talked-about moves, selecting Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders — a player once projected to go in the early rounds. As Day 3 of the draft progressed, Browns Executive Vice President and General Manager Andrew Berry kept a sharp eye on Sanders, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, who had surprisingly slipped down the board.

"We live by our board, and we felt like he was a good solid prospect at the most important position," Berry said. "We felt like it got to a point where he was probably mis-priced relative to the draft. The acquisition cost was pretty light, and we think he's a guy who can outproduce his draft slot."Determined to secure their target, the Browns traded their only remaining two Day 3 picks to the Seattle Seahawks to move up and grab Sanders at No. 144.

Sanders' college résumé speaks for itself. Across stints at Jackson State and Colorado, he posted a 70.1% career completion rate with 134 touchdowns against just 27 interceptions. In 2024, he led all FBS quarterbacks with a 74.1% completion percentage.His ability to excel at new levels has been a hallmark of his career. As a freshman at Trinity Christian High School in Texas, he led his team to a 12-1 record and a Division II Championship, with his father Deion calling the plays. Sanders then became the highest-ranked recruit in Jackson State history, immediately leading the Tigers to back-to-back SWAC titles. Later, transferring to Colorado, he was named the Pac-12 Newcomer of the Year, throwing for over 3,200 yards with 27 touchdowns and only three interceptions.

In Cleveland, Sanders joins a crowded and competitive quarterback room. He'll compete with fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel from Oregon, as well as veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett, both signed in free agency. A spirited offseason battle for the starting job is expected. Sanders' draft moment was just as electric as his college highlights. After receiving the life-changing call from Berry, Sanders celebrated in style, diving into a pool — a moment that quickly went viral on social media.

For a Browns team seeking long-term stability at quarterback, the selection of Sanders offers both promise and excitement. Whether he claims the Week 1 starting job or grows into it over time, the Browns believe they landed a prospect with star potential well beyond his fifth-round slot.

Grizzlies Dominate Mavericks to Clinch Final Playoff Spot, Set Sights on Thunder

By Cedric Bailey – News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Dallas Mavericks - 04 21 25

The Memphis Grizzlies punched their ticket to the NBA Playoffs with a commanding 120-106 win over the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference Play-In Tournament finale on Friday night at FedExForum. The victory secures Memphis the coveted No. 8 seed and sets up a first-round showdown with the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Grizzlies came out firing on all cylinders, never trailing as they overwhelmed Dallas early with a 39-24 first-quarter blitz. All five starters scored in double figures, led by Jaren Jackson Jr.'s 24 points and 7 rebounds. Ja Morant and Desmond Bane added 22 points apiece, combining for 12 rebounds and 18 assists, marking the first time the trio each scored 20+ in a postseason game. Rookie standout Zach Edey delivered his second straight Play-In double-double with 15 points and 11 boards, while Scotty Pippen Jr. added 13 points in his second consecutive start.

The Grizzlies' early dominance, including a 22-9 run late in the first quarter, built a cushion that proved insurmountable for the Mavs. Memphis led by as many as 25 points in the second quarter and took a 66-49 lead into halftime. Dallas trimmed the deficit to single digits in the third quarter, but a clutch three-pointer from John Konchar stopped the bleeding and restored a double-digit lead the Grizzlies would not relinquish.

Anthony Davis led the Mavericks with 40 points and 9 rebounds, while Klay Thompson chipped in 18. Brandon Williams added 16 points and 7 assists off the bench, and Naji Marshall had 13. Still, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Mavs' 16 turnovers, which led to 24 Memphis points, or their 16-7 deficit on the offensive glass. The loss ends a turbulent season for the Mavericks, who were attempting to become the first No. 10 seed to reach the playoffs since the play-in tournament’s inception in 2021.

"When you look at our leader (Davis), I thought him and Klay played well," said Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. "But give Memphis credit. They were the better team tonight." Ja Morant, playing just days after spraining his right ankle, logged 33 minutes thanks to a pain-killing injection. His resilience helped anchor Memphis in a game that saw them dictate the pace from start to finish.

With the win, the Grizzlies now turn their attention to a best-of-seven series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, tipping off Sunday at noon in OKC. By The Thunder won game in OKC by a score of 131-80, game 2 will on Tuesday on TNT.

NBA PLAYOFFS 2025: THE STAGE IS SET

By Cedric Bailey – News Director, BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of David Pearson, Lavida News 04/15/25

The NBA regular season has wrapped, and with Sunday night’s games in the books, the 2025 NBA Playoff picture is finally “crystal clear”. From rising stars to powerhouse squads, this year’s postseason promises high drama, breakout moments, and the crowning of a new champion. Buckle up — the road to the Finals begins now.

THUNDER & CAVALIERS: DESTINED TO COLLIDE?

Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Western Conference all season long, storming to the No. 1 seed behind a sensational MVP-worthy campaign from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The young star dazzled with offensive firepower and clutch leadership, making OKC the team to beat out West.

Meanwhile, in the East, the Cleveland Cavaliers soared to the top with over 60 wins — just the third time in franchise history. Led by the dynamic duo of Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland in the backcourt, and the imposing frontcourt of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, the Cavs are locked in and hungry for a deep run.

THE PLAY-IN CLASHES BEGIN TUESDAY

The NBA Play-In Tournament kicks off Tuesday, April 15, giving fringe contenders one last shot at glory.

Tuesday, April 15

East 7 vs. 8: Orlando Magic vs. Atlanta Hawks | 7:30 PM ET on TNT

West 7 vs. 8: Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies | 10:00 PM ET on TNT

Wednesday, April 16

East 9 vs. 10: Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat | 7:30 PM ET on ESPN

West 9 vs. 10: Dallas Mavericks vs. Sacramento Kings | 10:00 PM ET on ESPN

Winners of Tuesday’s games clinch the No. 7 seeds. Wednesday’s losers go home, while winners will face off Friday against the Tuesday losers for the No. 8 seed.

LUKA’S MAVS FACE THE FIRE

The Dallas Mavericks enter the play-in fray against Sacramento, with Luka Doncic back and blazing. His return was electric, and Mavs fans are hoping he can carry the load. Anthony Davis turned heads last week with a monster triple-double — 23 points, 13 boards, 10 assists, and 7 blocks — showing he's still got plenty of gas in the tank. New addition Brandon Williams also showed flashes of brilliance.

UConn Captures Record 12th NCAA Title in Dominant Win over South Carolina

By Cedric Bailey, News Director – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of UConn Sports Department 04/07/25

Tampa, FL.The University of Connecticut women’s basketball team made history Sunday night, securing its record 12th national championship with a commanding 82–59 victory over South Carolina in the 2025 NCAA title game. Led by the dynamic trio of Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd, and freshman sensation Sarah Strong, the Huskies overwhelmed the Gamecocks to claim their first championship in nearly a decade and surpass the UCLA men’s team for the most titles in college basketball history.

“We’ve won a lot of them, and they’ve all been special,” said head coach Geno Auriemma, who now owns more national titles than any other coach in the sport. “But this one, because of how it came about and everything involved, it hit different.”Bueckers scored 17 points in her final collegiate game, finishing her NCAA Tournament career with 477 points—third most all-time. She left the court with just over a minute remaining, tears in her eyes as she embraced Auriemma on the sideline.

Fudd, who poured in 24 points, was named the game’s Most Outstanding Player and surpassed 1,000 career points in the process. She is expected to return next season, providing a bright future for the program. But it was Strong who stole the show. The freshman phenom recorded her fourth double-double of the tournament with 24 points and 15 rebounds, breaking the record for most points by a freshman in an NCAA Tournament. “There are players who play four years and don’t do what she’s done in one,” Auriemma said. “She dominates every aspect of the game.”

South Carolina, led by head coach Dawn Staley, saw its perfect season hopes dashed. Staley, now 3–1 in title games, praised UConn’s execution and reflected on the impact of her departing senior class. “Much respect to UConn. They did a masterful job,” Staley said. “This senior group—what they’ve done for our program, our game, our city, and our state—is nothing short of historic.” Bueckers is widely expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA Draft on April 14, capping a remarkable collegiate career. With this championship, UConn reasserts its place atop women’s college basketball, powered by a blend of seasoned stars and next-generation talent.

Texas Longhorns Punch Ticket to Final Four

with Dominant Win Over TCU Horned Frogs

By Cedric Bailey, News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy TCU Woman’s Basketball 04/01/25

Birmingham, AL – The Texas Longhorns are heading back to the Final Four for the first time in over two decades after a commanding 58-47 victory over the TCU Horned Frogs in the Elite Eight. Texas’ relentless defense proved to be the difference-maker, forcing TCU into a season-high 21 turnovers and limiting them to just 12 field goals. Despite a strong push from the Horned Frogs in the third quarter—where they trimmed Texas’ lead to just a point at 32-31—the Longhorns responded with a decisive 10-2 run and never looked back.

Veteran guard Hailey Van Lith led TCU with 17 points and eight rebounds in what was her final college game. She helped keep the Horned Frogs within striking distance, scoring eight points in the second quarter to cut Texas’ lead to just two at halftime. On the other side, the Longhorns’ balanced attack was led by Madison Booker and Rori Harmon, who combined for 31 points. Kyla Oldacre contributed nine crucial points, helping Texas secure its fourth Final Four appearance in program history and the third under head coach Vic Schaefer.

The Longhorns established their defensive presence early, forcing TCU into eight first-quarter turnovers. Texas capitalized on those mistakes, securing a 13-9 lead after the opening period. Rori Harmon set the tone, hitting back-to-back jumpers, including a three-pointer, to help Texas jump out to a 7-1 advantage.TCU fought back in the second quarter, holding Texas to just 25% shooting from the field. A late push, led by Harmon’s 11 first-half points and two steals, allowed the Longhorns to maintain a slim 23-21 edge going into the break.

In the second half, Texas took full control. Taylor Jones opened the third quarter with a driving layup, and Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda converted an and-one play to extend the lead to 35-31. Freshman Jordan Lee added a three-pointer in the final minute of the period, followed by Madison Booker’s and-one jumper, giving Texas a 42-33 cushion entering the fourth. The Longhorns put the game away early in the final quarter, thanks to Kyla Oldacre’s strong post play. She hit a mid-range jumper and followed up with a steal and a fast-break layup while drawing a foul, pushing the lead to 47-36. Texas maintained control the rest of the way, securing their first Final Four berth since the 2002-03 season.

The Longhorns now prepare for a showdown against powerhouse South Carolina in the NCAA Tournament’s Final Four. The highly anticipated matchup is set for April 4 at 6:00 PM CT and will be broadcast live on ESPN. Texas aims to take one step closer to a national championship. Can they keep their historic run alive? Basketball fans will be watching.

Texas Christian University Wins the Big 12 Women’s Tournament

By Cedric Bailey, News Director – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Texas Christian University

Kansas City: The Big 12 Conference Women’s Tournament was held in Kansas City Missouri on last week. With Texas & Oklahoma in the SEC Conference that opened the door a new team to battle for the Championship title on the is past weekend. It was the performance of  Hailey Van Lith who scored 20 points, including a key bucket with 48.8 seconds left to give TCU a four-point lead, as top-seeded TCU beat No. 2 seed Baylor 64-59 on Sunday at the T-Mobile Center to win the program’s first Big 12 Championship.

The Horned Frogs won their first conference tournament title since 2005, when they were members of Conference USA. TCU made its first appearance in the Big 12 title game, while Baylor leads the conference with 16 appearances and 11 titles, while no other school has more than four.

Sedona Prince had 12 points and 14 rebounds for No. 8 TCU (31-3). Madison Conner and Donovyn Hunter each had 11 points for the Horned Frogs. No. 17 Baylor (27-7) was led by Aaronette Vonleh with 20 points. They also got 13 from Sarah Andrews and 12 from Yaya Felder.

Conner made 1-of-2 free throws with 9.7 seconds left to give TCU a three-point lead. Vonleh missed a potential tying 3-pointer before Agnes Emma-Nnopu made two fouls shots to cap the scoring.

Aaliyah Roberson’s layup late in the second quarter gave TCU its biggest lead of the game at 30-17, the Horned Frogs led by as many 12 points in the third and Emma-Nnopu hit two free throws to make it 55-45 with seven minutes to play. Andrews scored Baylor’s first six points in a 12-2 run that tied it at 57-all when Vonleh made a layup with 3:43 to go. Prince answered with a layup and the Bears, who committed four turnovers in the final three minutes, got no closer.

In closing, TCU entered the 2024-25 campaign enduring a 37-game losing streak to the national power Bears. In a span of six weeks, TCU became the first team in 18 years to defeat Baylor three times in a season. The Frogs outlasted the Bears in a 51-48 thriller on March 2 in Waco to win the undisputed regular season championship.

The result potentially vaulted the Horned Frogs (31-3, 16-2 Big 12) to the 2-seed line in the NCAA Tournament. TCU is all-but-assured of a host site of the opening rounds of the Big Dance from March 21-24. Congratulations to Coach Mark Campbell and staff on winning the Big 12 Championship game.

Fort Worth Dunbar Kalani Lawson is heading to Florida State

By Cedric Bailey - News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Dunbar Wildcats

Fort Worth: Kalani Lawson has won Back to Back State Championships in the 100m hurdles. Along with breaking her own 4A State record. She is now preparing for her senior year of high school at Dunbar High School. Recently at the national signing day she made the announcement that she will be attending college at Florida State Seminoles in Tallahassee Florida. I had the opportunity to chat with Kalani about her journey from at Dunbar High School and her journey in track and field. Her journey started back in 2018 when she joined the Cedar Hill Blaze track club. It was Coach Bobby and Coach Fred that introduced her the sport.  Now the interesting moment at that time was Coach Fred blind and couldn’t see Kalani, He would ask her to run and that is where he could listen to her movement on the track. Coach Bobby would be his eyes to make sure that she had the right forum.

After spending the next couple of years traveling the metroplex at various meets. Her next decision was which high school to attend. The answer was simple attend Paul Lawrence Dunbar where her father Coach Todd Lawson was the head football coach. It was Coach Leah Matthew-Gilliam the veteran Girls track was able to showcase the talent of Kalani in the long jump, relay team and 100M hurdles for the flying wildcats. She had a great junior year at the long jump and finished 5^th in state. She also a part of the 4 X 100 meter relay team as well. This weekend the Dunbar Wildcats will be running at Clark Stadium for their next meet.

Finally we wanted to know the various colleges across the country that were pursuing Kalani to attend college. Here are just some of the University’s that were knocking on the door. Duke, Miami, Boise State, Florida State, Baylor and several other institutions. However after the visit to Tallahassee and learning that it was a perfect fit. After several meetings with her mother Evelyn and father they were very pleased with her decision to attend Florida State. Her goal is to be one of the best in the ACC conference and qualify for the Olympics in 2028 in Los Angeles, California. Kalani wants to say a special thank you to her Aunt Belinda, Family and Church community for helping her with the support love and effort during her journey to the next level.

The Mavs Trade Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis

By Cedric Bailey, News Director – BGCSN / BGCSN, Photo courtesy of David Pearson – Lavida News

The Dallas community was left in disbelief overnight after the Mavericks pulled a blockbuster trade that sent beloved point guard Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers. The Mavs received Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round draft pick in 2029 in exchange for Maxi Kleber, Markieff Morris, and Doncic. Reports said the Utah Jazz were also involved, receiving Jalen Hood-Schifino and multiple second-round picks. In response, heartbroken and frustrated fans gathered outside the American Airlines Center to say their goodbyes to the franchise star—and to voice their discontent over the deal. The impromptu gathering resembled a makeshift memorial, with supporters holding up homemade signs, jerseys, and even candles in honor of Doncic. Others took a more fiery approach, chanting and leaving pointed messages aimed at Mavericks management, particularly General Manager Nico Harrison. Mavs GM Nico Harrison defended the decision, emphasizing the team’s need to improve defensively.

“I believe that defense wins championships,” he stated during a press conference, highlighting Davis’s impact on that end of the floor. However, with both Doncic and Davis currently recovering from injuries, fans are left wondering how the move will shape the future of both teams. Soon after the trade, Doncic shared a letter he wrote to Mavericks fans, describing them and the city as "special" and expressing that Dallas "will always feel like a home away from home. “Seven years ago, I came here as a teenager to pursue my dream of playing basketball at the highest level The love and support you all have given me is more than I could have ever dreamed of. Thank you for not only sharing my joy in our best moments, but also for lifting me up when I needed it most." Mavs fans are left heartbroken, questioning whether this trade will haunt Dallas for years to come.

Meanwhile on Sunday afternoon in Cleveland the Cavs Evan Mobley scored 22 points and set a franchise record with 91 in the first half as the Cavaliers romped to a 144-101 win on Sunday over Dallas just hours after the Mavericks traded superstar Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis. Darius Garland added 17 points and 10 assists as the Cavs improved the league's best record to 40-9. Sam Merrill made nine 3-pointers and Cleveland set a franchise record with 26 3s. Unfortunately, Irving wasn't available because of injury and the Cavs blitzed the Mavericks from the start. Cleveland scored a franchise record 50 points in the first quarter and opened a 45-point halftime lead. Their 91 points tied for the third-most in a first half in league history. Jaden Hardy paced Dallas with 21 points. The Mavs next 2 games are on the in Philadelphia on Tuesday and Boston on Thursday. The next home game is on Saturday vs the Rockets.

The Ohio State Buckeyes are National Champions

By Cedric Bailey, News Director – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Ohio State Sports

A season that appeared lost after a shocking 13-10 loss to Michigan on Nov. 30 ended in jubilation on Monday when the Buckeyes defeated Notre Dame 34-23 in the College Football Playoff championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Quinshon Judkins scored three touchdowns to lead Ohio State, which finished the season 14-2 and won its first national title since 2014. The Buckeyes scored 21 unanswered points in the first half to take a 21-7 halftime lead, then opened the second half with another touchdown drive to stretch the lead to 28-7. Notre Dame hung around and cut the lead to 31-23 with 4:15 to play in the game, but the Buckeyes put together a long drive and Jayden Fielding kicked 33-yard field goal with 26 seconds remaining to seal it.

The win capped a stirring run in the CFP's new expanded 12-team format that saw the eighth-seeded Buckeyes win playoff games against Tennessee, Oregon and Texas before taking on the Fighting Irish for the title. This is the Buckeyes' seventh national title. It also gave the Big Ten back-to-back national champions for the first time since 1942. Last year's champion, Michigan, was the first Big Ten team to win a national title in football since Ohio State won it in 2014.The Fighting Irish have won eight national titles but have not won one since 1988. The win raised coach Ryan Day's record to 70-10 in six years at Ohio State. Day is first nationally among all FBScoaches with an .875 winning percentage.

These Notre Dame football misfits just couldn’t make it all fit one final time against Ohio State in the College Football Playoff national championship.It had been 13 wins and 135 days since Notre Dame last lost, in its home opener to Northern Illinois in early September. The Irish (14-2) salvaged their season after that one. They nearly salvaged this one Monday, then ran out of answers and options and time and plays and everything else. Coach Marcus Freeman would earn every bit of that contract extension at halftime. This Irish program had seen a lot this season, but it hadn’t seen anything like it saw in the first half. This would be the comeback of all comebacks.

In closing Notre Dame reached the title game with playoff wins against Indiana, Georgia and Penn State. By reaching the final, Ohio State earned $20 million for the Big Ten. As an independent, Notre Dame gets to keep all $20 million it received for its CFP run.

BGCSN 2024 College Football Bowl Update

The Armed Force Bowl- Oklahoma vs Navy

By Zachery Barlow – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo Courtesy of Navy Athletics

Fort Worth - The Navy Midshipmen took the Oklahoma Sooners into deep water to secure a dynamic win in the Armed Forces Bowl.  Oklahoma started the game off scorching hot when RB Gavin Sawchuck took the ball into the end zone on a 21 yard run.  After a quick possession from Navy the Sooners got the ball back and scored again on a deep pass from QB Michael Hawkins to WR Zion Kearney for a 56 yard touchdown.  Now if I told you that Oklahoma wouldn’t score again until the last possession after seeing those first 2 drives you wouldn’t believe me however that’s exactly what happened.  It seemed like Navy needed to hear the boom of the Sooner fans to wake up and play this game, and that’s when the Navy Midshipmen decided to make the game very physical and attack the line of scrimmage. 

In typical Navy fashion, they began to run the ball and dominate the trenches, which resulted in a touchdown before the half.  Coming out of halftime everyone in the stadium could feel the tide shift towards Navy especially when QB Blake Horvath broke a 40 year school record with a 95 yard touchdown run right up the middle of the defense and another score in the 4th quarter of 6 yards.  When OU needed a play made on the last drive of the game Michael Hawkins made it happen and capped a long drive in under 1 minute with a touchdown to TE Jake Roberts.  Head coach Brent Venables rolled the dice and went for 2 to win the game which did not go his way.  Blake Horvath wins the MVP with his outstanding play.  Final Score - Navy 21 Oklahoma 20

BGCSN 2024 College Football Bowl Update #2

Scooters Frisco Bowl- Memphis vs West Virginia

By Zachery Barlow – BGCSN, Photo by Amy Hillenburg, West Virginia Sports Department

Frisco- Welcome to the Scooters Coffee Frisco Bowl and with the amount of points scored it would be a safe bet to safe both teams drank a few cups before the game.  The game started out slow with just Memphis scoring a touchdown in the first quarter. Quarterback, Seth Henigan and Wide Receiver, Mario Anderson Jr kept their foot on the gas in the second quarter and Memphis was up 28-17 going into the half.  However West Virginia came out the half and played like a team that wanted to win and while talking to West Virginia Alum Tavon Austin we both agreed that the Mountaineers needed to open the game plan and QB Garrett Greene did exactly that.   He went for 29/40 for 328 and outscored Memphis 20-14 in the second half.  Of course a game sponsored by a coffee company had to have an electric ending and that’s what happened when Greene threw an interception that resulted in a possible fumble to that was overturned to end the game.  “Overall, a great game between two energetic teams with the MVP being Seth Henigan”. Final Score - Memphis 42 West Virginia 37

The North Crowley Panthers win the Texas Class 6A Division 1 Championship game against Austin Westlake Chaparrals 50-21

By Cedric Bailey, News Director – BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo Courtesy of Crowley ISD

ARLINGTON — Austin Westlake football team was playing for its fifth state title. However their next opponent was the North Crowley Panthers in the Class 6A Division I championship game Saturday at AT&T Stadium. For the first time 76 years, the city of Fort Worth has a state football championship in UIL's highest classification.

Panthers QB Chris Jimerson Jr. has a unique role as the North Crowley quarterback. In his final game at the helm, he guided the Panthers to a 50-21 win over Austin Westlake to secure the school’s second state championship. North Crowley rolled up 640 yards of total offense, the second most ever in 6A final history and only the third team to surpass 600 yards in 6A championship game history. The state record is held by Allen’s 2013 team against Pearland with 670. Jimerson threw for 299 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for 63 yards and another touchdown.

Running back Cornelius Warren III, who recently decommited from UNLV after a coaching change, ran for 217 yards and didn’t get the Offensive MVP nod. Neither did Jimerson. That honor went to Colorado signee Quentin Gibson, who had 7 catches for 181 yards and 3 touchdowns. He provided a pair of highlight-worthy catches with a 75-yard touchdown on the first play of the game — a flea flicker from Warren to Jimerson to a wide-open Gibson, who traversed across the field in 15 seconds.

Gibson finished his season as the all-time DFW leader in touchdowns in a single season with 36, passing current Seattle Seahawk Jaxon Smith-Njibga, who had 35 in 2019 at Rockwall, which was the 6A record until tonight. He also broke a tie with Cee Dee Lamb from Richmond Foster, who had 33 in 2015.

Before the hiring of Ray Gates as head coach, North Crowley's all-time record was 83-160. Under the watchful eye of Gates, the Panthers are 42-2. North Crowley is the first school from Fort Worth to win a state title in UIL’s highest classification since Arlington Heights won a title in 1948. North Crowley capped the year with a 16-0 record and improved to 42-2 over the past two seasons. This year, they knocked off nationally ranked DeSoto and Duncanville.

In front of a crowd of 36,120 at AT&T Stadium, Quentin Gibson put up video game-like numbers while breaking the Dallas-area record for most touchdown catches in a season. The matchup of nationally ranked teams ended up being a showcase for North Crowley’s breathtaking speed and the prodigious offensive playmakers who have produced one of the greatest seasons in Texas high school football history. Congratulations to the North Crowley Panthers on winning the State Championship.

Prairie View A&M Panthers Knock off Grambling State Tigers

in 5 OT’s 36-34

By Cedric Bailey, News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo by David Pearson / Lavida News

Dallas: The Grambling State University football team dropped its Southwestern Athletic Conference opener to Prairie View A&M, 36-34, in a five-overtime marathon on Saturday evening in the 99th State Fair Classic at the Cotton Bowl Stadium. Grambling led 17-7 at halftime, but couldn't find its rhythm in the second half, allowing PVAMU (2-3, 1-2) to rally back for its first conference win of the year.

 Offensively, Grambling State out-gained Prairie View A&M 386 to 303. Starting quarterback Myles Crawley accumulated 286 of those yards through the air. He completed 29-of-48 passes with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Crawleys top targets were Javon Robinson and Julien Lewis who both caught six passes. Robinson had 48 receiving yards while Lewis had 47. Ke'Travion "Bull" Hargrove ran for 61 yards on 15 carries. Dedrick Talbert and Tre Bradford accounted for the rushing touchdowns for the Tigers with Talbert running for 36 yards and a score on three touches and Bradford rushing for eight yards and a score.

Panthers QB Lamagea McDowell scored from a yard out in the fifth overtime to give Prairie View A&M a win over Grambling State on Saturday night at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. Grambling and Prairie View failed on their first pair of two-point tries. Grambling (3-2, 0-1 Southwestern Athletic Conference) also failed on its third, setting up the Panthers (2-3, 1-2) for the potential win. After a holding penalty gave Prairie View the ball at the 1-yard line, and McDowell plowed through the middle for the victory.

Grambling State returns to action on Oct. 12 when the Tigers host Alcorn State. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Eddie G. Robinson Memorial Stadium and will be broadcast on ESPN+

Cowboys “Come Up Short” against Ravens with a 28 -25 loss

By Cedric Bailey, News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2, Photo by Shawn Hubbard

Dallas: The Dallas Cowboys were at AT&T Stadium for the second game in a row. This time it was the Baltimore Ravens that were led by Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson leading the way.  The Cowboys struggled in the first three quarters of the game in the Ravens' 28-25 win. The Cowboys scored 19 points in the fourth quarter, thanks to a wide-open passing attack that took advantage of the Ravens' soft coverage.

One minute, you're looking up the longest field goals made in NFL history. Then you're researching the most rushing yards allowed by the Cowboys in a single game. And then you start counting how long it's been since the Cowboys scored a touchdown. And before you can even blink, you're starting to talk about the biggest fourth-quarter comeback in team history? That's how crazy this game turned out to be. The Cowboys made a furious rally in the fourth quarter, giving them an actual shot to pull off what would've been a miracle.

But the Cowboys didn't get the win because they were unlucky. They didn't win the game because they just can't run the football. It's really not that hard to figure out why the offense is struggling so much, and why that's affecting everything else happening. Everyone on the team not named Brandon Aubrey has some problems here. The defense is getting gashed to no end and can't stop the run. The biggest issue for this team is being so one-dimensional on offense. Not until the game got completely out of hand did the Ravens defense back off and play a softer coverage, allowing the Cowboys to get back in the game.

The Cowboys totaled just 51 rushing yards – for the entire game. In comparison, the Ravens rushed for 55 yards – in the first quarter alone. Then went for 56 yards – in the second quarter alone. Then there's 122 yards in the third quarter before a 41-yard fourth quarter when the Ravens barely had the ball. But when they needed to run out the clock, they did. The Cowboys needed to run the ball early in the game and just couldn't do it. Cowboy fans are wondering why Dalvin Cook isn't ready to play, or why they don't think he's ready. The plan was to go with a combination of Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn and Hunter Luepke. So no one should be super surprised that it's not working out here after three games.

Now one game back of the Philadelphia Eagles with 14 regular season games left to play, it's about fixing things sooner than later to avoid finding themselves in a situation wherein they're regretting dropping early games that could ultimately determine playoff seeding, or their playoff fate altogether. Dallas next game is on Thursday night against the New York Giants in New York.

Dallas Cowboys Win Season Opener against the Cleveland Browns Final Score 33-17

By Cedric Bailey, News Director / BGCSN, BGCSN2, Photo courtesy of Lavida News

Cleveland Ohio: The day started out with so much promise for the Browns, who lost 33-17 to the Cowboys in the opener Sunday amid an ugly return for Deshaun Watson, who was sacked six times and picked off twice. By the end of the game, he was shaken up hard on one of the Cowboys’ many hits and then strip-sacked at the two-minute warning to add insult to injury.

Dallas played like a relaxed bunch Sunday, cruising to a 33-17 victory. Prescott powered the Cowboys to six scoring drives, concluding with a 21-yard touchdown to wide receiver Brandin Cooks. The scoring strike occurred on a third-and-5 in which the Browns sent an all-out blitz. Cooks cut toward the back corner of the end zone, leaving Cleveland's safety in the dust for a wide-open score after Prescott delivered him the football while backpedaling. The duo connected for eight touchdowns in Cooks' first season in Dallas last season, and they already have their first scoring strike of 2024. The Cowboys went 7-1 in the eight games Cooks scored last season and improved to 1-0 in such games in 2024 on Sunday. Prescott finished with 179 passing yards and a touchdown on 19 of 32 passing.

Prescott's BFF and 2016 draft classmate Ezekiel Elliott also got in on the scoring, bulldozing into the end zone for a three-yard rushing touchdown that ran the score up to 14-3 with 5:15 left in the half. The touchdown plunge marked the three-time Pro Bowler's first with Dallas since Week 17 of the 2022 season. Elliott finished the game with 40 rushing yards and the touchdown on 10 carries. The freshly paid Lamb led all players in targets (10), catches (five) and receiving yards (61) in the game. Cowboys 2023 first-team All-Pro kicker Brandon Aubrey picked up right where he left off last year, draining four field goals from 57, 40, 50 and 46 yards.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson and the Browns offense simply couldn't keep Cowboys All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons in check, surrendering a sack and multiple pressures. Parsons deflected a Watson pass that landed right in the hands of Dallas middle linebacker Eric Kendricks for an interception with 1:46 left in the half. Kendricks, who joined the Cowboys as a free agent this offseason, racked up two sacks in addition to the interception. Dallas capitalized on both of the Browns starting offensive tackles, left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. and right tackle Jack Conklin, missing Sunday's game with knee injuries, finishing with six sacks of Watson. Parsons finished with nine quarterback pressures, the most in the NFL entering "Sunday Night Football," and a sack. Four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher DeMarcus Lawrence finished with six pressures, two sacks and a forced fumble.

KaVontae Turpin's 60-yard punt return touchdown. The All-Pro returner had preseason return touchdowns but none in the regular season. Now, he has one for real, and the score expanded the lead to 24 points, 27-3, early in the third quarter, putting the game completely out of reach for the Browns. The 1-0 Cowboys head back home to Texas for their Week 2 home opener against the 1-0 New Orleans Saints at 12 p.m.

HBCU Swingman Classic from Arlington Texas

By Cedric Bailey, News Director (BGCSN, BGCSN2) / Photo by Bob Booth, Star Telegram

HBCU baseball is the closest one can get to the Negro Leagues in the modern day. According to the HBCU alumnus, the game has been a central part of what has come to the forefront of Major League Baseball’s premier events highlighting the history and legacy of Black baseball. The second annual HBCU Swingman Classic was held on last Friday evening at Globe Life Field, during MLB’s All-Star Week festivities. The event features the top 50 college baseball players from Division-I Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Former Rangers second baseman Mark McLemore and former MLB scout and MLBPA consultant Reggie Waller were on hand for the media event on Tuesday at Globe Life Field.

The second annual HBCU Swingman Classic, presented by T-Mobile and powered by the MLB-MLBPA Youth Development Foundation, showcased the brightest HBCU baseball all-stars. The American League team emerged victorious with a 5-4 win, halting a ninth-inning rally from the National League. Ken Griffey Jr.'s annual event invited 50 HBCU baseball players from SWAC, MEAC, CAA, and CIAA to display their talents to professional scouts and decision-makers, aiming to boost their careers.

Only four freshmen were chosen to participate in the 2024 HBCU Swingman Classic and one, Michael Smith Jr., is no stranger to Texas playing his collegiate baseball at Prairie View A&M University. Smith Jr. acknowledged it was an honor to play in the classic and was excited to share the experience with some of his teammates. “I was just like, ‘Wow, this is a great opportunity, especially getting to go in my freshman year.’ You know what I’m saying? Not everybody gets to do that, let alone their freshman year, but at all. There’s a lot of boys that would love to be here in the big league stadium with their boys and so I’m just grateful,” said Smith.

One of those boys is Michael Burroughs a sophomore and Texas native who played starred at Judson High School in Converse. Burroughs felt the full gamut of emotions when he got the news of his classic invite. “When I first heard about it, I was very very excited. My coach called me and he told me I was selected, found out about that, at first, it was a lot of emotions running through my body, I was nervous but also proud of myself because of all the hard work I put in,” said Burroughs. Burroughs talked about how special it was to share this experience with his teammate.

Players in the HBCU Swingman Classic had the opportunity to be coached by a multitude of former MLB players and managers including Ken Griffey Sr., Jerry Manuel and Mark McLemore and both Smith and Burroughs shared what they’ve taken away from those luminaries.

Cowboys Take the NFC East Division and Claim the #2 seed in the Playoffs

By Cedric Bailey, News Director / BGCSN / BGCSN2 / Lavida News, Photo Courtesy of Dallas Cowboys

The final playoff spots were claimed and the postseason seeding fell into place on the last day of the NFL regular season. The top seeds in each conference already had been determined before Sunday’s play began. The Baltimore Ravens had clinched the AFC’s No. 1 seed. The San Francisco 49ers had secured the NFC’s top seed. They will have opening-round byes next weekend and home-field advantage through the conference championship games, if they advance that far.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers won Sunday to clinch the NFC South title. The Dallas Cowboys secured the NFC East crown and the conference’s No. 2 seed. The Cowboys struggled just a bit in the game’s early going but then took control to beat the Washington Commanders handily, 38-10, Sunday at FedEx Field. They benefited from the Eagles’ late-season downward spiral to secure the No. 2 seed in the NFC. The Cowboys will host the Packers in an opening-round game next weekend, as Coach Mike McCarthy will face his former team.

The Cowboys last won the division two years ago. They last reached the Super Bowl in the 1995 season. Last month, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones called the team’s failure to win a championship in the 2007 season, when it went 13-3 with Tony Romo at quarterback, his “biggest disappointment since I’ve been with the Cowboys.” He acknowledged then that this season represents the Cowboys’ best Super Bowl opportunity since.

They have spent this season tantalizing their fans with the possibility of postseason glory. Too often in the past, they have failed to deliver on such promise. They have to hope things will be different this time based on the play of quarterback Dak Prescott, the exploits of wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and a sometimes-overpowering defense. The Cowboys are on a 16-game winning streak at home, and now are looking at the prospect of playing at AT&T Stadium through at least the divisional round of the postseason.

The Jacksonville Jaguars failed in their bid to win the AFC South, handing the division title to the Houston Texans and clinching playoff spots for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills. The Green Bay Packers reached the postseason as a wild-card entry in the NFC. The Bills beat the Miami Dolphins on Sunday night to win the AFC East, dropping the Dolphins into a wild-card spot.

The Bills resembled a championship team at times this season. Just as often, they looked nothing like that. But they are right back in the Super Bowl-contending mix. They won the AFC East for a fourth straight season and seized the No. 2 seed in the AFC by defeating the Dolphins, 21-14, Sunday night in Miami Gardens, Fla. The Bills will host the seventh-seeded Steelers next weekend in Orchard Park, N.Y. The Dolphins dropped to the No. 6 seed as a wild card and will travel to Kansas City to play the third-seeded Chiefs.

Texas Longhorns “Roll Past” the Oklahoma State Cowboys in the Big 12 Championship game 49-21

By Cedric Bailey, News Direrctor / BGCSN  / Reporter for Lavida News, Photo by David Pearson BGCSN / Lavida News

Arlington- On Saturday afternoon the Texas defeated Oklahoma State 49-21 in its last Big 12 game to win the conference crown. They’ll rightfully play in the SEC next year, however the win was good enough to get them in the College Football Playoff against the Washington Huskies. The Texas offense, which rolled up a Big 12 Championship Game record 662 yards, didn’t punt until the third quarter – long after viewers at home flipped the channel over to something more entertaining, like the MAC championship.

Quarterback Quinn Ewers set a career-high mark for passing yards (452) and became the first player in the game’s history to throw four touchdown passes in one half. For Oklahoma State, it served as a standard for where it needs to go to become a conference champion and a contender in the 12-team playoff picture next season. Texas had a better game plan and better players to execute it. It wasn’t just the trick plays. Texas outgained Oklahoma State by 381 yards, had 20 more first downs, converted on 63 percent of its third downs and possessed the ball for 21 more minutes. And defensively, Sarkisian boasted holding Ollie Gordon, the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year, to 34 yards. OSU contributed to shutting Gordon down – part by design and part out of necessity. The Cowboys are now 0-3 in Big 12 play when Gordon has fewer than 20 carries. All season, Gundy and Dunn have said this team is not built to play one-dimensionally. Texas and OSU could have played that game 10 times, and Texas would have won at least nine of them – maybe in nine different ways.

When Texas was announced as the No. 3 team in the College Football Playoff, many speculated that Oklahoma would be thrust into the New Year’s Six, leaving Oklahoma State with the top Big 12 bowl selection. Instead, the Sooners were left out of the top-11 teams in the CFP rankings, so Oklahoma State was selected to play in the Texas Bowl against Texas A&M. The game will be played on Dec. 27 at 8 p.m. in NRG Stadium, home of the Houston Texans, and will be televised nationally on ESPN.

The programs’ most recent matchup came in the 2019 Texas Bowl when the Aggies beat the Cowboys, 24-21. “The Bowl has become one of the largest annual events in our community and we’re excited to welcome back Texas A&M and Oklahoma State to Houston,” said Texas Bowl Executive Director David Fletcher in a statement. “We can’t wait to host these teams and their fan bases for a full week of Texas-themed events that will culminate in a primetime showdown.”Coach Mike Gundy said he has given the players a week off, and he expects to know who will be available for the game by Monday after transfer portal decisions are made.