## Atlas Lions Roar to Victory in CHAN Opener

**Morocco Dominates Angola with a 2-0 Scoreline**

Nairobi, Kenya -  Morocco's domestic national team kicked off their African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign with a resounding 2-0 victory over Angola at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday. Coach Tarik Sektioui deployed a reshuffled squad following the summer transfer window which saw many local league players move abroad.

The Atlas Lions asserted their dominance early, taking the lead in the 29th minute through a well-orchestrated attack that culminated in a [ ... ].  
 




## Atlas Lions Roar to Victory in CHAN Opener

**Morocco Dominates Angola with a 2-0 Scoreline**

Nairobi, Kenya -  Morocco's domestic national team kicked off 

Morocco beats Angola 2-0 in CHAN 2025 opener

## Raja Casablanca Makes History: First Moroccan Club to Embrace Sports Corporation Model

**Landmark Investment Agreement With Marsa Maroc Paves the Way for Professionalization**

Raja Casablanca took a momentous step towards full professionalization this Saturday, signing a strategic investment agreement with port operator Marsa Maroc. This landmark deal marks the first time a Moroccan club has formally initiated its transition into a sports corporation. 

The ceremony, held at the club's academy, was attended by prominent figures including Moroccan Football Federation president Fouzi Lekjaa and  Marsa Maroc CEO,  Abdessadak el-Kharoubi.

"This partnership is a historic moment for Raja Casablanca," said [Quote from Raja Casablanca representative]. "It signals our commitment to building a sustainable future for the club, driven by professionalism and excellence."


The agreement will see Marsa Maroc provide significant financial support and expertise to Raja Casablanca, enabling the club to invest in key areas such as infrastructure development, youth academy programs, and talent acquisition. 

“[Quote from Abdessadak el-Kharoubi]” 


## Raja Casablanca Makes History: First Moroccan Club to Embrace Sports Corporation Model

**Landmark Investment Agreement With Marsa Maroc Paves the Way for Pr

Raja Casablanca signs landmark investment deal with Marsa Ma

Raja Casablanca signs landmark investment deal with Marsa Maroc

##  Atlas Lions Aim for Kenyan Kick-Off Victory

**Morocco's home-based football team sets sights on Angola in opening CHAN 2024 clash.**

NAIROBI - Moroccan head coach Tarik Sektioui has called the upcoming match against Angola in the opening round of CHAN 2024 a “pivotal moment” for the squad’s ambitions. Speaking at a press conference on Saturday, Sektioui stressed the importance of securing a victory against Angola on Sunday.

“A win in the opening match would provide the psychological boost needed for [ ... ]” said Sektioui.  




##  Atlas Lions Aim for Kenyan Kick-Off Victory

**Morocco's home-based football team sets sights on Angola in opening CHAN 2024 clash.**

NAIROBI - Moroccan he

Morocco to face Angola in crucial CHAN 2024 opener, coach sk

Morocco to face Angola in crucial CHAN 2024 opener, coach skeptical but determined

## Atlas Lions Roar Back: Aiming for Third CHAN Crown

**Moroccan National Team Seeks to Top African Nations Championship Leaderboard**

The Moroccan national football team, known as the Atlas Lions, is back in action at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Kenya.  After missing the 2022 edition, they are hungry to secure a third continental title and break their tie with DR Congo for most tournament wins.

Morocco, victorious in both 2018 and 2020, arrived early in Nairobi to acclimate to local conditions before competition begins.


The team is prepared to face the challenge and add another trophy to their impressive collection.  


## Atlas Lions Roar Back: Aiming for Third CHAN Crown

**Moroccan National Team Seeks to Top African Nations Championship Leaderboard**

The Moroccan national f

Morocco targets third CHAN title in 2024 return

## Penn State's Knowles Unleashes Praise for 'Game-Changing' Defender Zane Durant

**Defensive coordinator energized by lineman's impact in offseason practices.**

Penn State defensive coordinator Jim Knowles is buzzing with excitement about the upcoming season, particularly after witnessing the standout performance of senior defensive lineman Zane Durant during spring and summer practices. 

Knowles believes Durant possesses a unique talent that will reshape the Nittany Lions' defensive strategy. "[It] changes the way you can play defense," Knowles stated, according to Frank Bodani of the York Daily Record. "And Zane's that guy."  

Durant is entering his senior season after deciding to return for another year in Happy Valley. Last season, he earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition from both coaches and media after starting all 16 games played by Penn State. He recorded 42 tackles (22 solo), with 11 tackles for loss and three sacks. Durant's impressive performance has already earned him preseason recognition on the watch lists for prestigious awards like the Bronko Nagurski Trophy (best defensive player) and the Outland Trophy (best interior lineman).

Durant leads a formidable defensive line that also includes returning starters Dani Dennis-Sutton and Zuriah Fisher on the edges, and Alonzo Ford Jr. as a top option inside Knowles' 4-2-5 defense.  


**Penn State Takes the Field August 30th**
The Nittany Lions open their season against Nevada at home on Saturday, August 30th.

You can view the full Penn State football schedule here.  


## Penn State's Knowles Unleashes Praise for 'Game-Changing' Defender Zane Durant

**Defensive coordinator energized by lineman's impact in offseason practices.

Jim Knowles shares high praise for Zane Durant

## Dame Time Returns to Ogden: Damian Lillard Takes Helm as Weber State GM

**NBA Star Leverages Experience to Build Wildcats Program**

Damian Lillard, nine-time NBA All-Star and Weber State alumnus, is returning to his alma mater in a new capacity. The Portland Trail Blazers guard announced during the Weber State Alumni Classic on August 2nd that he has agreed to serve as the general manager for the Wildcats' men's basketball program.

"Success doesn't come overnight, especially in today's ever-changing basketball landscape," Lillard stated. "College athletics is constantly evolving, and building a strong program requires time, trust, and commitment. I believe in what this program represents and the culture that continues to grow at Weber State... This opportunity allows me to be even more involved in shaping the future of Weber State basketball."

Lillard's role will involve working closely with the men's basketball staff and Weber State's athletic department. He joins a growing list of prominent NBA figures taking on general manager roles in college basketball, alongside Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry, Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young, and Shaquille O’Neal at Sacramento State.

"I feel like I can do a lot to help the program be successful, to help the players even individually continue to grow their careers past college," Lillard told the Standard-Examiner.

Lillard's legacy at Weber State is undeniable. He averaged 18.8 points and 3.5 assists per game over his four seasons (2009-2012), shooting a remarkable 44.6% from the field and 86.7% from beyond the arc. His standout senior season earned him All-America honors, making him the first Big Sky player to achieve that feat. He was then drafted No. 6 overall by the Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA Draft.

"From his days as a Wildcat to his success as a professional, Damian Lillard has remained deeply connected to Weber State, leaving an enduring mark on our university," said Weber State's Director of Athletics Tim Crompton.  “This new role allows him to contribute his vision and experience in a more formal way, further elevating our program...Damian’s dedication to Weber State is stronger than ever, further cementing his lasting impact on our community.”


Lillard recently signed a three-year, $42 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers after being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks. He is expected to miss the 2025-26 season as he recovers from a torn Achilles tendon injury sustained during the first round of the NBA Playoffs with the Bucks.  





## Dame Time Returns to Ogden: Damian Lillard Takes Helm as Weber State GM

**NBA Star Leverages Experience to Build Wildcats Program**

Damian Lillard, nine-ti

Damian Lillard hired to be Weber State men&#39;s basketball 

Damian Lillard hired to be Weber State men&#39;s basketball general manager

## Brewers Hit with Third Injury in Three Days

**Rookie Right-hander Sidelined After Line Drive to Shin**

WASHINGTON — The Milwaukee Brewers have placed right-handed pitcher Jacob Misiorowski on the 15-day injured list with a left tibia contusion, marking their third injury within just three days. 

Misiorowski was struck by a line drive in his most recent start on July 28 against the Chicago Cubs. Despite the blow to his shin, he remained in the game and pitched four innings.

Rookie pitcher Logan Henderson has been called up from Class AAA Nashville to fill Misiorowski's roster spot.  

Manager Pat Murphy and Misiorowski will address the media later on August 3rd with further updates on the situation.

This story is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.




## Brewers Hit with Third Injury in Three Days

**Rookie Right-hander Sidelined After Line Drive to Shin**

WASHINGTON — The Milwaukee Brewers have placed right

Brewers place flamethrowing rookie Jacob Misiorowski on the 

Brewers place flamethrowing rookie Jacob Misiorowski on the injured list

##  Bashi Sends Message with First-Round Submission Victory

**Michigan Featherweight Dominates Opponent, Eyes Continued Rise in UFC**

LAS VEGAS – Austin Bashi made a statement Saturday night at UFC on ESPN 71. After securing his first UFC win via standing rear-naked choke in the opening round against John Yannis, Bashi sent a clear message: don't underestimate him.

Yannis (9-4 MMA, 0-1 UFC) stepped into the octagon on short notice as a heavy underdog against the highly touted Bashi (14-1 MMA, 1-1 UFC).  The fight ended decisively when Bashi locked in the submission with approximately 90 seconds remaining in the first round.

This victory came after Bashi's original opponent, Francis Marshall, withdrew from their scheduled bout shortly before the event. The 23-year-old featherweight remained focused on competing and expressed a willingness to face any challenger.

Bashi initially captured attention when he earned a UFC contract on Dana White’s Contender Series this past September after an impressive performance. Despite being a heavy favorite in his official UFC debut against Christian Rodriguez in January, Bashi suffered his first career loss via decision.

The Michigan native described that experience as a valuable learning opportunity and a catalyst for his Saturday night triumph.

“After that last fight, I saw who my true supporters were, and I saw who was sleeping on me – and there were a bunch of people sleeping on me,” Bashi said at the post-fight press conference. “This was to prove something to myself – not really to the world, but to prove something to myself how hungry I am and how bad I really want it.” 





##  Bashi Sends Message with First-Round Submission Victory

**Michigan Featherweight Dominates Opponent, Eyes Continued Rise in UFC**

LAS VEGAS – Austin Bashi

Sleep on Austin Bashi at your own risk after UFC on ESPN 71

## Doncic Sets Championship Deadline for Lakers

**Lakers superstar commits to long-term future, demands immediate pursuit of title.**


The Los Angeles Lakers can now fully focus their efforts on building a championship contender around Luka Doncic after he agreed to a three-year contract extension. This offseason, they've made significant moves by addressing their center position with the signing of Deandre Ayton and adding 2022 Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart.

Despite these additions, some experts believe the Lakers still lack the necessary pieces for a true championship run. However, Doncic's recent statement to management reveals a burning desire to win, possibly creating a sense of urgency within the organization.


In May, Doncic met with general manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick at a restaurant, where he made his intentions crystal clear. 

"I don't want to wait," Doncic told them, according to a source familiar with the conversation. "I had a taste of the Finals. I am getting back there. So let's do whatever we can now."


Doncic reached the NBA Finals in 2024 as a member of the Dallas Mavericks before being traded to the Lakers. They lost to the Boston Celtics in five games, marking a period when criticism surrounding Doncic's fitness and conditioning intensified.

This offseason, Doncic has noticeably shed weight and improved his physical condition, suggesting a potential new era for him in Los Angeles.




## Doncic Sets Championship Deadline for Lakers

**Lakers superstar commits to long-term future, demands immediate pursuit of title.**


The Los Angeles Lakers 

Luka Doncic made a bold statement about wanting to win the N

Luka Doncic made a bold statement about wanting to win the NBA championship now

##  Spartans Land Top Prospect After Injury Creates Opening

**Commit Flip Sends Skilled Defenseman to East Lansing**


Just as it seemed the roster was set for the 2025-26 season, an injury at an NHL development camp unexpectedly opened a spot on Michigan State's blue line. The Spartans swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, securing a commitment from highly touted defenseman Sean Barnhill.

Barnhill, a third-round pick by the New York Rangers in the 2025 NHL Draft, was originally slated to join Northeastern University in 2026.  The 6-foot-5, 215-pound Arizona native spent last season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL.

Michigan State's open roster spot proved to be a key factor in convincing Barnhill to join the Spartans for the upcoming season.


"🚨COMMIT FLIP ALERT🚨  
Defenseman Sean Barnhill will join the Michigan State Spartans after originally committing to Northeastern per @MikeMcMahonCHN 
3rd Round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft by the @NYRangers will play College Hockey in 2025-26 for Sparty!"

— College Puck NXT (@CollegePuckNXT) August 2, 2025




Follow along with The Spartans Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook for more Michigan State news.


##  Spartans Land Top Prospect After Injury Creates Opening

**Commit Flip Sends Skilled Defenseman to East Lansing**


Just as it seemed the roster was set for

Michigan State hockey flips Northeastern blue line commit, b

Michigan State hockey flips Northeastern blue line commit, bringing him in for 2025-26

## Rookie Running Back DJ Giddens Thriving in Colts Training Camp

**Cooter Impressed by Giddens' Adaptability and Versatility**

Indianapolis Colts offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter is high on rookie running back DJ Giddens after nearly two weeks of training camp. 

"DJ's done a really nice job," Cooter said following Saturday's practice. "He's a young guy, who's been put in some different roles maybe than he was in college. Just in the NFL, you're running the ball, but maybe you're running it from different sides and behind the quarterback. You're running these routes that maybe you never ran in college. You're working different blitz pickup schemes."

Cooter praised Giddens' ability to quickly grasp the nuances of the NFL game, noting how most young running backs struggle with the expanded responsibilities compared to college. 


"Oftentimes a young running back has a lot on his plate learning that. It is different than college, but DJ's done a really nice job of picking up the offense, picking up his role and then going out and executing it."

**Kansas State Star Brings Explosive Talent to Indianapolis**

Giddens arrives in Indianapolis after two standout seasons at Kansas State.  In 2024, he averaged a remarkable 6.5 yards per rush, ranking sixth in average yards after contact and 20th in missed tackles forced, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).

After the NFL Draft, General Manager Chris Ballard highlighted Giddens' exceptional contact balance, making him incredibly difficult to bring down and leading to numerous explosive runs.  Giddens finished last season ranked 15th in rushes of 10-plus yards among all running backs.


**Adding a Receiving Dimension to the Backfield**

Giddens also brings a valuable pass-catching element to the Colts' backfield, something that was lacking in 2024. He was targeted 72 times over his final two seasons at Kansas State and averaged nearly 13.0 yards per catch in 2024.  


While Giddens possesses the potential to contribute in passing situations, he also needs to prove himself in pass protection, a skill that often presents a learning curve for rookie running backs.

**The Backup Role is Up for Grabs**

While Jonathan Taylor is expected to carry the primary workload at running back, the backup role behind him remains open. Giddens is competing with Khalil Herbert and Tyler Goodson for those snaps.

"Oftentimes, he has had a knack in this camp of sort of finding that crease, reading that defense the right way, and working with his offensive line to create yards," Cooter added. "So we're real encouraged with DJ. I'm excited to watch him continue to try different roles, and different routes, and different run schemes within this offense to see what he's comfortable with and where he goes from here." 


## Rookie Running Back DJ Giddens Thriving in Colts Training Camp

**Cooter Impressed by Giddens' Adaptability and Versatility**

Indianapolis Colts offensive c

Indianapolis Colts&#39; Jim Bob Cooter evaluates play of roo

Indianapolis Colts&#39; Jim Bob Cooter evaluates play of rookie RB DJ Giddens

##  Ravens Flock to M&T Bank Stadium for Open Practice Bonanza 

**Free Tickets Flew Off the Shelves for Capacity Crowd**

Baltimore Ravens fans are gearing up for an exciting Day 10 of training camp as the team prepares for a special open session at M&T Bank Stadium. The 2.5-hour practice, which features free admission, sold out within minutes after its announcement last month, promising a capacity crowd eager to witness their favorite players in action.  

This marks a significant step up from last year's training camp, where the Ravens hosted eight fewer open sessions at the Under Armour Performance Center. This year, nine of the 16 open training camp sessions have been free to the public, offering fans ample opportunities to catch glimpses of their favorite team.

**Practice Updates:**

Fans will be eager to see the return of wide receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, who both rejoined practice on Saturday.  However, wide receiver Devontez Walker and running back Marcus Major Jr. were absent from the field. 


**Can't Make it to M&T Bank Stadium?**

For those unable to attend the open practice in person, a free livestream will be available on the Ravens' YouTube channel, ensuring fans across the nation can witness the action unfold.   


##  Ravens Flock to M&T Bank Stadium for Open Practice Bonanza 

**Free Tickets Flew Off the Shelves for Capacity Crowd**

Baltimore Ravens fans are gearing up 

#Sports

Morocco beats Angola 2-0 in CHAN 2025 opener

Raja Casablanca signs landmark investment deal with Marsa Maroc

Morocco to face Angola in crucial CHAN 2024 opener, coach skeptical but determined

Morocco targets third CHAN title in 2024 return

Jim Knowles shares high praise for Zane Durant

Damian Lillard hired to be Weber State men's basketball general manager

Brewers place flamethrowing rookie Jacob Misiorowski on the injured list

Sleep on Austin Bashi at your own risk after UFC on ESPN 71

Luka Doncic made a bold statement about wanting to win the NBA championship now

Michigan State hockey flips Northeastern blue line commit, bringing him in for 2025-26

Indianapolis Colts' Jim Bob Cooter evaluates play of rookie RB DJ Giddens

How to watch the Ravens open training camp practice from M&T Bank Stadium