Jakub Paul, a 26-year-old Swiss tennis player ranked 81st in doubles, has emerged as a surprise hero at the United Cup 2026, winning all four mixed doubles rubbers alongside Belinda Bencic and helping Switzerland reach its first final, despite being relatively unknown and balancing his singles and doubles careers.
The NCAA Baseball Tournament's regionals weekend saw 16 teams advance, with notable performances from ACC teams, Oregon and Oregon State, and Cinderella story Evansville. Homefield advantage played a significant role, while bubble hosts and No. 2 seeds struggled. California teams had a particularly tough weekend, failing to advance any team to the super regionals for the first time since 1999.
Birmingham-Southern College's baseball team ended their emotional postseason run with a loss to Wisconsin-Whitewater in the Division III World Series, just days after the college closed permanently due to financial issues. Despite a dramatic win the previous day, the Panthers were eliminated after a ninth-inning home run by their opponents.
North Carolina State Wolfpack, the only double-digit seed left in this year's men's NCAA basketball tournament, is drawing attention as a potential Cinderella story. After a rough regular season, the team won seven consecutive elimination games to secure a spot in the tournament. Led by star player DJ Burns Jr., the Wolfpack is gaining recognition and support as they continue to defy expectations and advance in the tournament.
DJ Burns Jr. and NC State continue their improbable March run, surviving a thrilling overtime victory against 14th-seeded Oakland to advance to the Sweet 16 for the first time in almost a decade. The Wolfpack's remarkable journey began with winning five games in as many days at the conference tournament, defying all odds. Despite facing physical and mental challenges, including observing Ramadan, the team's resilience and determination have propelled them to an unforgettable Cinderella story in the NCAA Tournament.
After a stunning upset victory over Kentucky, the Oakland Golden Grizzlies are set to face N.C. State in the NCAA tournament's Round of 32. The team's unexpected success has garnered nationwide support, with their coach and players expressing confidence and unity. The upcoming game presents a challenge against N.C. State's formidable lineup, but Oakland's unique matchup zone and track record in close games could give them an edge. The prediction favors Oakland to continue their historic run with a 77-72 win over N.C. State.
Professor Robert Healy III from Duquesne University went viral after canceling class for students to celebrate the school's first NCAA tournament win since 1969. The professor's message on social media garnered over 643,000 views, with Dick's Sporting Goods even referencing him with a goat emoji. Duquesne's Cinderella story continued with a 71-67 win over BYU, and even garnered support from LeBron James. University president Ken Gormley expressed pride in the historic win, and fans are eagerly anticipating the next game.
The Jamaican women's soccer team, known as the Reggae Girlz, has captured the hearts of their nation and the world with their historic performance at the Women's World Cup. Despite facing financial challenges and being disbanded in the past, the team managed to reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history. Their success has sparked celebrations in Jamaica and highlighted the underfunding of women's sports. The team's next game is against Colombia.
The Florida Atlantic University men's basketball team, known as the Owls, is approaching the Final Four with a selfless attitude. Despite being labeled as unknowns from a weak conference, the Owls have an NCAA Division I best 35 wins and are on an 11-game winning streak. The team's success is attributed to their unselfish attitudes and respect for each other, with nine players averaging 15-plus minutes this season and the starting rotation changing several times. The Owls face San Diego State on Saturday.
No. 9 seed Florida Atlantic University (FAU) advances to the Elite Eight in their first NCAA Tournament appearance, defeating No. 4 seed Tennessee 62-55. FAU is the seventh No. 9 seed to make an Elite Eight and just the fifth program in the past four decades to go this deep into the tournament after winning an NCAA tourney game for the first time in that very same tournament. Despite being considered a Cinderella story, FAU's players insist they are not underdogs and are here to stay. They will face third-seeded Kansas State in the next round.
The Princeton Tigers, a 15th seed in the NCAA Basketball Tournament, have reached the Sweet 16 and are not content with just being there. Sophomore guard Blake Peters says the team has national championship aspirations and is trying to make history. The team, known for its academic prowess, is playing its best basketball of the season and is confident heading into their matchup against Creighton. Peters introduced his teammates and coach, highlighting their unique personalities and talents. The Tigers are a team easy to root for and are excited to showcase what Princeton basketball is all about.
Ryan Langborg, the star player of Princeton basketball, is leading the team's Cinderella run in the NCAA Tournament. He is one of the best pure shooters in school history and embodies everything that is Princeton. Despite his success on the court, his future is likely in finance, as he is set to graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Economics and has professional experience in the field. Langborg is focused on leading Princeton to the Elite Eight with a win over Creighton on Friday.
Fairleigh Dickinson men's basketball coach Tobin Anderson gave his team a pep talk before their game against Florida Atlantic, with assistant coach Tom Bonacum alleging that their opponents were trash-talking them. Fairleigh Dickinson delivered an improbable upset of the No. 1 seed Purdue on Friday and is looking to continue their Cinderella story. Florida Atlantic is coming off a win over No. 8 Memphis and has the most wins in program history this season.