Axios

The National Basketball Association rejected a deal involving private equity firm Carlyle that would have helped finance a purchase of the Minnesota Timberwolves by Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore, Axios has learned.

Why it matters: A-Rod and Lore must fund their purchase by month's end.

Basketball fans across the country are gearing up for the start of March Madness — and for many, that will mean making big bets on their teams.

Why it matters: The American Gaming Association estimates that $2.72 billion worth of legal bets will be placed on this year's NCAA tournaments.

The National Women's Soccer League season kicked off this past weekend, but it may be busier off the pitch.

Driving the news: Two franchises were just sold, and a third is in talks to do the same.

The field of teams for both the men's and women's NCAA basketball tournaments were revealed Sunday.

Why it matters: The women's Final Four will take place at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse April 5-7 and is expected to draw record crowds, according to representatives for the arena.