Basketball player Brittney Griner has been named an honorary WNBA All-Star and starter, the WNBA announced on Wednesday.
Why it matters: Griner has been detained in Russia, where she plays during the WNBA off-season, since February after agents allegedly found vape cartridges in her luggage. The U.S. considers her to be wrongfully detained.
Attempting the world record for pull-ups in 24 hours (currently 7,715) is among the most daunting challenges on Earth. It's also among the most popular.
Driving the news: Former NCAA wrestling champion Anthony Robles — born with one leg — was the latest to attempt the feat, falling short in a heroic effort last month.
Washington Commanders owner Dan Snyder and his lawyers launched a "shadow investigation" to influence the NFL's internal investigation into workplace misconduct at the team and discredit victims and witnesses, according to investigative findings by the House Committee on Oversight and Reform.
Driving the news: Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), chair of the Oversight Committee, said that she plans to issue a subpoena for Snyder's testimony after he declined to testify voluntarily at a hearing Wednesday, citing due process concerns.
The National Women's Soccer League and BreakingT, a rapid-production apparel company, have agreed to a licensed apparel deal.
Why it matters: This is BreakingT's first major pro league license and will enable the NWSL to celebrate and commercialize its most exciting teams, players and moments.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s top spokesman denied accusations that WNBA star Brittney Griner is a hostage and gave no update about a potential release from Russian authorities, NBC News reports.
Why it matters:Griner was detained in February after landing in Moscow. Authorities said she had vape cartridges containing hashish oil, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison in Russia. The State Department says Griner was "wrongfully detained."
Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has settled with 20 of the 24 women who have filed sexual misconduct cases against him, according to Tony Buzbee, the lawyer representing the women accusing Watson.
On the heels of the Women's College World Series, two pro softball leagues began play last week.
Why it matters: The existence of multiple leagues is indicative of softball's recent growth, spurred by increasing popularity of the college game and the uptick in investment across women's sports.
Matt Fitzpatrick delivered a performance for the ages on Sunday at The Country Club, winning the U.S. Open by a stroke to capture his first major championship and first victory on the PGA Tour, period.
The big picture: The 27-year-old Englishman also won the 2013 U.S Amateur at TCC, joining Jack Nicklaus as the only men to win both events on the same course (Pebble Beach: 1961 and 1972).
