## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl has unveiled its highly anticipated Preseason 1000 Watch List, and Michigan State University is well represented with eight players earning a spot. The annual event features top collegiate athletes vying for recognition and opportunities to advance their careers after the season concludes.

This year's  East-West Shrine Bowl, scheduled for January 27 in Frisco, Texas, could see multiple Spartans take the field. 


**The Spartan Standouts:**

* NiJhay Burt (cornerback)
* Aidan Chiles (quarterback)
* Matt Gulbin (guard)
* Omari Kelly (wide receiver)
* Nikai Martinez (safety)
* Conner Moore (tackle)
* Elijah Tau-Tolliver (running back)
* Jack Velling (tight end)


 **Looking Ahead to the Gridiron:**

Michigan State football kicks off its 2025 season on August 29th against Western Michigan, with a 7 p.m. ET kickoff at Spartan Stadium, broadcasted live on FS1.  




Follow us for ongoing coverage of Michigan State news and updates: 


**X (formerly Twitter): @The SpartansWire**

 **Facebook:** [Insert Facebook Page Link]





## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prest

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 prese

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 preseason watch list

## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Sooner softball pitcher, announced her commitment to the LSU Tigers on Monday. 

Monticelli joined the Sooners following the 2023 season, contributing to their fourth consecutive championship win in 2024.  

During her two years in Norman, she appeared in 34 games, holding a 2-0 record. In 2024, Monticelli boasted an impressive 1.09 ERA across 19.1 innings. However, she faced challenges in 2025 with a 3.94 ERA over 21.1 innings and limited playing time during the NCAA Tournament.

The transfer brings valuable experience to LSU, filling the void left by pitcher Sydney Berzon who joined Oklahoma via the transfer portal.

**Oklahoma Bolsters Roster with Top Talent**

Meanwhile, Oklahoma is strengthening its own roster for the upcoming season.  They welcome Alyssa Parker, ranked as the No. 1 pitcher in the 2025 recruiting class, and Berkley Zache, the No. 5 pitcher overall. Returning players include senior Kierston Deal, sophomore Audrey Lowry, and redshirt freshman Sophia Bordi, who will be back with the team after taking time away during the latter part of the 2025 season.


Monticelli expressed her gratitude for her time at Oklahoma in a heartfelt social media statement:

"Thank you, Sooner Nation, for supporting me these past two years. This was not an easy decision to make. I have loved everything about being a Sooner and am so grateful for every single person I have met along my journey with this program. Norman will always be a special place to me." 


She also shared her excitement for joining LSU, tweeting: "Callin’ Baton Rouge  🐅💜💛 @LSUsoftball" 


## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Soon

Oklahoma Sooners pitcher transferring to LSU Tigers

##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan Valdes, the former Auburn star golfer and a member of the 2024 National Championship team, made waves at last weekend's 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities. The 22-year-old achieved his best professional result to date with a remarkable 15-under par performance, securing a coveted top-20 finish.

**Rising Star Outshines PGA Veterans**

Valdes's performance surpassed several seasoned PGA Tour members, including Ricky Fowler, Max Homa, and even the tournament champion Jhonattan Vegas. This impressive feat marks his second consecutive cut made in just his two career PGA Tour events.

**Back Nine Blitz Ignites Tournament Run**

The Orlando, Florida native captured attention with a stunning back nine performance on Thursday during his first round. He birdied seven of his final nine holes, finishing bogey-free with an impressive 64. This remarkable start placed him atop the leaderboard after day one.  While Friday saw him struggle to maintain that momentum, ending even par, he still held firm at a respectable 7-under par heading into the weekend.

**Weekend Magic propels Valdes towards Top 10**

Valdes rediscovered his form over the weekend, carding a 3-under par 68 on "Moving Day" before closing out the tournament with a spectacular 5-under par 66 on Sunday. His 15-under par total placed him just three strokes shy of the top 10 and eight strokes behind the eventual champion Kurt Kitayama, who finished at an impressive 23-under par.


**Future Success Beckons for Former Auburn Star**

With his early success in the PGA Tour, Valdes has clearly demonstrated the potential to compete for tournament victories soon. He will likely have to wait until August when the FedEx Cup Playoffs begin to attempt a top-10 finish. 


##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan V

Auburn golfer Brendan Valdes earns top 20 finish at 3M Open

## Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Dealing with New Injury

**Florida's starting quarterback sidelined just weeks before season opener.**

Florida starting quarterback DJ Lagway is currently sporting a walking boot due to a "new lower-body injury," according to Zach Goodall. While the injury is being described as "minor and not of long-term concern," it adds another layer of concern for the talented but injury-plagued quarterback.  

This latest setback follows a string of offseason injuries for Lagway, who sat out spring camp due to a throwing shoulder rehab and dealt with a "hernia-type" issue earlier this year. He also only took a ceremonial snap at the Orange and Blue Game while still recovering from his shoulder injury. 


The Gators kick off their season in just 33 days against Long Island, and while Lagway's absence wouldn't be crucial for that game, it raises questions about his availability going forward.  

"Staying healthy is priority No. 1 for Lagway this season," experts say. If he can remain on the field, Florida has a chance to boast one of the SEC's most exciting offenses. However, if Lagway goes down again, Harrison Bailey will step in, potentially leading to a less dynamic offensive performance.


**Follow along for the latest updates on Florida Gators news and insights.**

[Social Media Links] 


## Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Dealing with New Injury

**Florida's starting quarterback sidelined just weeks before season opener.**

Florida starting quarter

DJ Lagway dealing with new injury, per reports

##  Notre Dame Women's Basketball Making Waves in Recruiting

**Elite Prospects Drawn to South Bend**

Despite a transitional season for the Notre Dame women's basketball team, the program is attracting top recruits. With FIBA Gold medalist Hanna Hidalgo leading the charge, Coach Niele Ivey is building a powerhouse roster for the future.  

### Ragone Anchors 2026 Class 

The Irish have already secured one commitment in the 2026 class: Georgia small forward Bella Ragone. Ranked No. 23 overall by 247Sports, Ragone brings immense talent to South Bend.

**Porter's Official Visit Sets Stage for Potential Decision**

Coach Ivey is targeting another top prospect, power forward Jayda Porter. The Missouri native sits at No. 31 in the national rankings and will be visiting Notre Dame on September 13th for an official visit. Porter has also scheduled visits to Oklahoma, Nebraska, and Wisconsin, making this a crucial decision point. As the sister of NBA player Michael Porter Jr. and daughter of head coach Michael Porter Sr., Porter brings athletic lineage and basketball experience to the table.

###  Looking Ahead: Burress Enters the Spotlight

The Irish have extended an early offer to 2028 New Jersey guard Giovanna Burress, daughter of former NFL star Plaxico Burress and sister of wide receiver Elijah. While it's still early, Notre Dame is competing with powerhouse programs like Ohio State, Georgia, and Michigan State for Burress' commitment.

**A Recruiting Strategy Inspired by Success**

Coach Ivey appears to be adopting a similar recruiting strategy as her counterpart in football, Marcus Freeman, by targeting players from elite athletic families.  With this approach showing promise in the football program, hopes are high that it will translate to success on the women's basketball court. 





##  Notre Dame Women's Basketball Making Waves in Recruiting

**Elite Prospects Drawn to South Bend**

Despite a transitional season for the Notre Dame women's 

A few Notre Dame women’s basketball notes on Jayda Porter an

A few Notre Dame women’s basketball notes on Jayda Porter and Giovanna Burress

## Fields Returns to Jets Practice After Minor Toe Injury

**Former Buckeye's Last Chance at Franchise Success Looks Secure**

A scare early in the week sent ripples through the New York Jets camp as former Ohio State quarterback, Justin Fields, was carted off the field with an apparent foot injury. 

The concern was understandable, especially given the Jets' all-in approach on Fields as their starter this season. This represents a crucial opportunity for Fields to solidify his place as a franchise quarterback after mixed results in Chicago and Pittsburgh.  However, fans can breathe easy as Fields returned to practice just one day later on Friday. 

The official diagnosis revealed a dislocated toe – a significant injury for most individuals, but not expected to hinder Fields' progress towards starting on opening day. While he didn't participate fully on Friday, Fields threw some passes on the side and is considered day-to-day in his return.


**Jets Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn offered his perspective:** 

"I don't think like that. The only thing I think about, the next guy that's up gotta get ready to operate. That's just what it is. That's how this league is."



The news of Fields' swift recovery is met with relief from fans and pundits alike.  Many Ohio State alumni eagerly anticipate seeing him thrive in New York, and Jets faithful are equally optimistic about his potential to become a key player in the Big Apple. 


## Fields Returns to Jets Practice After Minor Toe Injury

**Former Buckeye's Last Chance at Franchise Success Looks Secure**

A scare early in the week sent ri

Former Ohio State quarterback returns to Jets practice after

Former Ohio State quarterback returns to Jets practice after injury scare

## Kyron Drones: A Quarterback on a Mission

**Virginia Tech Star Focused on Contending in ACC Race**

Kyron Drones enters the 2025 college football season as one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the nation. The Houston native has emerged as a dark horse Heisman contender thanks to his dual-threat abilities and leadership on the field, making him a key figure for Virginia Tech’s aspirations.  

“We want to put ourselves in a position to compete,” Drones stated at the ACC Kickoff in Charlotte this week, highlighting his dedication to leading the Hokies to success. 


**Training with NFL Stars Fortifies His Resolve**

Drones' journey has been shaped by rigorous training alongside his cousin, Cam Ward (now the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft), and former Colorado star Shedeur Sanders (recently selected No. 144 overall in the NFL Draft). Their intense workouts, which even included a Fourth of July celebration with football drills followed by fireworks from a Miami yacht, have forged Drones’ resilience.

While Sanders has received media attention for his draft position, Drones stands as his defender: “A lot of people got their own opinions about Shedeur and they don’t really know him,” he said. “He doesn’t care what people say. He’s going to go out there and play football.”


**Dedication to Growth Fuels His Potential**

Drones' commitment extends beyond high-profile training sessions.  He has also diligently worked with renowned quarterback coach Darrell Colbert since high school, recently honing his skills in Turks and Caicos. 

With a laser focus on success, Drones is ready to lead Virginia Tech into the 2025 season, starting with a crucial matchup against South Carolina in Atlanta on August 31st (ESPN, 3 p.m. ET).


This could be the year that Kyron Drones truly shines and establishes himself as a force to be reckoned with in the ACC.  


## Kyron Drones: A Quarterback on a Mission

**Virginia Tech Star Focused on Contending in ACC Race**

Kyron Drones enters the 2025 college football season as o

Kyron Drones sends clear message about Shedeur Sanders&#39; 

Kyron Drones sends clear message about Shedeur Sanders&#39; future (Exclusive)

## Huskies Aim for Physical Dominance in Summer Workouts

**UConn's Dan Hurley Emphasizes Strength Training and Fan Support During Crucial Off-Season Period**


Following a 24-11 season that saw the Connecticut Huskies advance to the second round of the NCAA Tournament, Coach Dan Hurley has set his sights on strengthening the team for next season. In an address to reporters on Friday, Hurley highlighted areas where physicality was a factor last year.

“We felt like at times last year we got bullied in league play," Hurley said. "You know, the older teams, in particular, really physically handled us. So, I think you can see there's some emphasis with the program with guys like Solo (Ball) and Jalen Stewart and these guys look physically better and stronger.”

The Huskies are implementing changes to their weekly practice schedule, including Friday scrimmages open to select fans. Hurley urged supporters to avoid harsh social media criticism, particularly during this developmental phase. 

“Hopefully the fans don’t start killing the players that didn’t play well today on social," Hurley said. "I think that started early last summer and it just causes angst that we don't need. So, stay off the message boards and let the guys just work through the summer.”


**A Legacy of Success: Coach Hurley's Impact on UConn Basketball**

Since arriving at UConn in 2018, Dan Hurley has restored the Huskies to national prominence. His leadership led to consecutive NCAA titles in 2023 and 2024, marking him as only the third coach to achieve back-to-back championships in the last 50 years. The 2023-24 team set a school record with 37 wins and secured UConn’s first-ever No. 1 overall seed in the NCAA Tournament. Hurley's achievements earned him the Naismith College Coach of the Year award, making him the first men's basketball coach at UConn to receive this honor.

Despite last season's third-place conference finish and an early exit in March Madness after a close loss to eventual national champion Florida, the Huskies return with much of their core intact. The 2025-26 college basketball season promises another exciting chapter for the program under Coach Hurley's guidance.  





## Huskies Aim for Physical Dominance in Summer Workouts

**UConn's Dan Hurley Emphasizes Strength Training and Fan Support During Crucial Off-Season Period**



‘Don’t Start Killing the Players’: Dan Hurley Sends Fierce M

‘Don’t Start Killing the Players’: Dan Hurley Sends Fierce Message Defending UConn Players

## Hollywood Lights On BYU Basketball? Documentary in the Works

**Could a documentary capture BYU's historic rise in college basketball?** 

A Hollywood producer has reportedly pitched a film focused on the Cougars' 2025-26 season, according to ESPN.  If greenlit, it wouldn't just be a basketball story; it would delve into themes of belief and high expectations.

### A Star-Studded Cast is Ready for Prime Time

BYU already boasts a roster primed for the big screen:

* **AJ Dybantsa:** The 6-foot-10 phenom projected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. He's athletic, powerful, and playing under a lucrative NIL deal.
* **Richie Saunders:** A sharpshooter and emotional leader who helped BYU reach the Sweet Sixteen last season.
* **Keba Keita:** A high-flying center with immense upside and another returning contributor from the team's tournament run.

The cast is further bolstered by head coach Kevin Young, an NBA veteran quickly becoming one of college basketball's most intriguing leaders.

### Underdog to Contender: The Plot Thickens 

BYU stunned critics last season with a second-weekend NCAA Tournament appearance – their first since the Jimmer Fredette era in 2011.  Over the final two months, they led the nation in offensive efficiency, shooting 37% from deep and nearly 60% inside the arc.

Their success defied expectations, creating a compelling narrative for a documentary: underdog overachievers reloading with elite talent. Now, BYU is no longer sneaking up on anyone; ESPN has already named them a national title contender.


###  A Spotlight Could Change Everything

A documentary wouldn't just tell BYU's story; it could shape its future. National exposure from a series like "Last Chance U" or "Full Court Press" could impact recruiting, fan engagement, and elevate the program's national standing. If the Cougars make a deep tournament run with Dybantsa at the helm, it could change how they are viewed across the country.


Coach Young, with NBA ties and a modern approach, already attracts top talent. A high-profile documentary would amplify what he is building in Provo.

###  Will Cameras Roll? 

While there's no official greenlight yet, the interest is palpable. The buzz is growing. If cameras arrive at the Marriott Center this fall, BYU fans might not just witness history; they could be a part of it.



Stay tuned. Something big is brewing in Provo.


## Hollywood Lights On BYU Basketball? Documentary in the Works

**Could a documentary capture BYU's historic rise in college basketball?** 

A Hollywood produc

Hollywood eyes BYU Basketball’s 2025-26 season

## Can USC's 2025 Class Outshine the Hype of '26?

The USC Trojans are making waves in college football recruiting with their stellar classes, especially their highly-touted 2026 group which once held the No. 1 spot nationally. But is head coach Lincoln Riley's 2025 class getting overshadowed by its younger counterpart?


**"Overshadowed"  — The Challenge for USC's 2025 Freshmen**

Riley addressed this question directly at Big Ten Media Days, acknowledging the public focus on the 2026 group, which boasts five-star recruits Keenyi Pepe (tackle), Mark Bowman (tight end), and former Oregon four-star commits Jonas Williams (quarterback) and Tomuhini Topui (defensive lineman).

"I think there has been so much excitement about the '26 class, and in some ways, maybe publicly, it's overshadowed some of these guys," Riley stated via 247Sports.  


**Riley's Confidence in His Incoming Talent**

Despite the perceived shadow, Riley remains confident in his 2025 recruits. "But I think once you see these guys get on the field, once you watch 'em play this season and beyond, I don't think that will exist as much," he said.  "We're very proud of that class."

The coach highlighted the impact several players from the 2025 class have already made during spring practices. Five-star quarterback Husan Longstreet pushed Jayden Maiava for the starting QB position, and Riley acknowledged ongoing competition in the room. Jahkeem Stewart, another standout freshman, is expected to contribute immediately on the defensive line this fall.

**A Deep Look at USC's 2025 Class**


The Trojans landed 25 signings in the last cycle, including four-star tackles Alex Payne and Aaron Dunn, and four-star defensive backs Trestin Castro and Alex Graham.  USC's 2025 class currently ranks 13th nationally according to 247Sports.

This fall promises to be an exciting one for USC as both their 2025 and 2026 classes take the field, ready to prove their worth.




## Can USC's 2025 Class Outshine the Hype of '26?

The USC Trojans are making waves in college football recruiting with their stellar classes, especially their 

Lincoln Riley Sends Message on &#39;Overshadowed&#39; USC 20

Lincoln Riley Sends Message on &#39;Overshadowed&#39; USC 2025 Class

## Lady Vols Make Their Mark in Thrilling WNBA Showdown

**Former Tennessee Stars Shine in Tight Victory, Harrison Contributes to Liberty Effort**

Los Angeles claimed a hard-fought victory over New York on Saturday night, emerging victorious with a final score of 101-99. The win marked the Sparks' fifth consecutive triumph and showcased the talents of three former Lady Vols basketball players.

**Jackson Clinches Victory in Dramatic Fashion**

Rickea Jackson led the charge for Los Angeles, securing a game-winning field goal as time expired to propel her team to victory.  The second-year professional, drafted fourth overall by the Sparks in 2024, put up an impressive 24 points, along with three rebounds, two assists, and one steal in 31 minutes of play. Jackson's shooting prowess was undeniable, converting 9-of-15 field goals, including 4-of-6 three-pointers, and a perfect 2-of-2 from the free throw line.

**Burrell Provides Spark Off the Bench**

Teammate Rae Burrell also contributed significantly to the Sparks' success, scoring 12 points, grabbing two rebounds, dishing out one assist, and securing one steal in 18 minutes of action. The former Lady Vol, drafted ninth overall by Los Angeles in 2022, showcased her shooting skills by converting 4-of-9 field goals, including 2-of-3 three-pointers, and 2-of-5 free throws.

**Harrison Contributes to Liberty Effort**

Meanwhile, Isabelle Harrison provided valuable support for the Liberty, contributing seven points, one rebound, and one steal in 13 minutes of play. The former Lady Vol, drafted twelfth overall by Phoenix in 2015, displayed her scoring ability by converting 2-of-4 field goals and 3-of-4 free throws.


Harrison's time at Tennessee (2011-15) under legendary coaches Pat Summitt and Holly Warlick saw her earn accolades like SEC Tournament MVP in 2014 and First-Team All-SEC recognition.  


## Lady Vols Make Their Mark in Thrilling WNBA Showdown

**Former Tennessee Stars Shine in Tight Victory, Harrison Contributes to Liberty Effort**

Los Angeles 

Rickea Jackson makes game-winning shot for Sparks at New Yor

Rickea Jackson makes game-winning shot for Sparks at New York

## Tigers Roar into Top 5: Auburn Baseball Prepped for College World Series Run

**Auburn made a stunning comeback in 2025, transforming from cellar dwellers to Super Regional hosts. Now, experts predict another stellar season.**

Just one year after a disappointing campaign with only 27 wins, the Auburn Tigers soared to new heights in 2025.  Their remarkable turnaround saw them improve their win total by 14 games and secure their first-ever Super Regional berth. This impressive surge has caught the attention of college baseball experts at Baseball America, who have ranked Auburn No. 5 in their "way-too-early" top 25 for the 2026 season – a significant jump from their No. 10 ranking at the end of 2025.

Experts Jacob Rudner and Peter Flaherty highlight the impact of standout freshmen Chris Rembert, Christian Chatterton, and Eric Guevara, along with transfers Todd Clay and Drew Whalen, predicting they will propel Auburn to the top of both the SEC and national rankings next season.  


### From Bottom to Top: A Year of Transformation

Auburn's rapid climb back into SEC prominence in 2025 saw them more than double their conference win total from the previous year.  While key contributors Samuel Dutton and Ike Irish have departed, leaving behind a void difficult to fill, returning players like Chris Rembert, Chase Fralick, Eric Guevara, Bub Terrell, Christian Chatterton, and Andreas Alvarez form a solid foundation built upon strategic recruiting.

To bolster their pitching staff, Auburn has welcomed additions Drew Whalen (Western Kentucky), Ethan Harden (Belmont), and Jake Marciano (Virginia Tech). Offensively, Ryan Farber (Texas State), Todd Clay (Alabama-Birmingham) and Logan Greggorio (Northern Illinois) promise exciting contributions.


### Rebuilding for 2026: A New Season Dawns

Despite a successful 2025 season, Auburn head coach Butch Thompson faces the challenge of rebuilding his pitching staff and infield following the departure of several players to Major League Baseball organizations.

The loss of Ike Irish, drafted No. 19 overall by the Baltimore Orioles, will be particularly significant.  His versatility in the field and power at the plate made him a vital asset. 

However, Thompson's proven coaching ability and the return of key players like catcher Chase Fralick, outfielders Lucas Steele and Bub Terrell, and infielders Eric Guevara and Chris Rembert provide optimism for another successful season.  Pitchers Christian Chatterton, Jackson Sanders, Andreas Alvarez, Alex Petrovic, and Saxon Roberts are also poised to contribute alongside returning arms Mason Koch, Connor Gatwood, and Trevor Booton.


### SEC Dominance: A Battle for the Top

Baseball America's top five is heavily dominated by SEC teams. Defending College World Series champion LSU sits at No. 2, followed by Texas at No. 3 and Mississippi State at No. 4. UCLA rounds out the top five, aiming to build on their successful 2025 season with a return to the College World Series.  




## Tigers Roar into Top 5: Auburn Baseball Prepped for College World Series Run

**Auburn made a stunning comeback in 2025, transforming from cellar dwellers to

#College