The Jan. 26 helicopter crash that killed Kobe Byrant, his daughter Gianna, the pilot and six other passengers was likely not the result of engine failure, according to a preliminary investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board.
The state of play: Though the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, the NTSB notes low visibility was a significant factor in the cause of the crash. Investigators noted the worsening weather conditions multiple times in the 11-page update. The helicopter created a 2-foot deep, 25-by-15-foot crater. A full report about the exact cause of the crash could take more than a year, per the Washington Post.
Major League Rugby kicks off its third season this weekend, with all 12 teams in action across North America.
What to watch: Three expansion teams — Old Glory DC, Rugby ATL (Atlanta) and New England Freejacks — will be making their debut, along with some impressive global talent.
A reboot of one of America's most infamous sports leagues kicks off this weekend, with billionaire wrestling mogul Vince McMahon betting once more that football fans are hungry for more football.
What they're saying: Whereas the old XFL leaned on gimmicks and stunts when it first launched (and failed) 19 years ago, the new XFL is presenting itself as a league focused entirely on quality of play and the on-field product.
