Monthly Archives: March 2026

Finol’s Two-Run Homer Gives Kane County Cougars 2026 Baseball Champions League Title Sunday

Claudio Finol’s two run home run to deep center field keyed a six run sixth inning as the Kane County Cougars etched their names in the baseball history books, defeating The Mexican League Champions Diablos Rojos del México 7-3 in the Finals of the 2026 Baseball Champions League at Alfredo Harp Stadium.

“The players showed up every day here. They were not intimidated playing the Diablos in their home park with a raucous crowd,” said Kane County Manager George Tsamis. “We walk away champions and we couldn’t be more proud to bring this Baseball Champions League title back to Kane County and the American Association.”

The Cougars grabbed an early 1-0 first inning lead on a Dillon Thomas home run, but Mexico City tied the game at 1-1 when Bryan Antonio Roque Gonazlez went deep against KC’s Konnor Ash. That set the stage for Kane County’s six run outburst in the bottom of the sixth, which began with a Josh Allen leadoff double, a Thomas RBI single, a run scoring single by Josh Rehwaldt, and then after two outs, the Finol dinger that broke the game open.

Ash allowed a run on just five hits in 4 2/3 innings and got great support from five relievers, with Jake Gozzo closing the game with a 1-2-3 ninth.

The Cougars advanced to the championship in thrilling fashion Saturday, riding Jabari Henry’s three run eighth inning homer to a 9-7 victory over Los Dantos de Managua of Nicaragua on Saturday.

Kane County went 6-0 in the series, 4-0 in round robin play before sweeping the weekend, becoming the first American Association Club to run the table in the BCS.

“I could not be prouder of what Kane County accomplished here in Mexico this week,” said American Association Commissioner Josh Schaub. “It shows not just the quality of play we have and the high level coaching and the dedication of ownership, but it shows the commitment our league has to this growing event, and sets the table for what should be a thrilling season starting in May.”

The 2026 AAPB season begins on May 14 with Fargo-Moorhead visiting Cleburne.

AAPB Expands Broadcast Partnerships with RYZ, Bally Sports Live, NLSE, FTF Sports, SLVR

The American Association of Professional Baseball (AAPB) today announced new and renewed broadcast agreements with RYZ, Bally’s Corporation, NLSE, FTF Sports (For the Fans), and SLVR Sports and Entertainment, expanding the league’s national and international media footprint across digital and linear platforms.

Under the terms of the agreements, RYZ, NLSE, FTF Sports, and SLVR will carry a slate of AAPB regular season and postseason games, along with coverage of the Baseball Champions League (BCL). Bally’s Corporation will exclusively feature Baseball Champions League broadcasts on their Bally Sports Live apps (iPhone, Android, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google TV), ballysports.com

The deal with RYZ represents a renewal of an existing partnership, continuing the strong collaboration between the league and the innovative sports media platform. RYZ viewers will continue to enjoy high-quality game coverage, digital exclusives, and behind-the-scenes AAPB content throughout the 2026 season.

“These partnerships reflect the increasing demand for AAPB baseball and our commitment to bringing fans closer to the game,” said Joshua Schaub, Commissioner of the American Association of Professional Baseball. “By working with RYZ, Bally’s Corporation, NLSE, FTF Sports, and SLVR, in addition to our already existing partners including Gray Media and Unbeaten, we’re ensuring broader access to our games across more screens and more markets than ever before.” The expanded distribution is projected to drive viewership growth from 10 million in 2025 to 18 million in 2026. The 2026 distribution slate also represents the largest footprint for distribution in league history.

The agreements strengthen the AAPB’s position as the premier MLB Partner League and underscore its role in growing the sport through strategic media distribution and international collaboration.

Broadcast schedules and platform-specific details will be announced closer to Opening Day.

Harlem Globetrotters & Keepsake Trading Cards Launch Centennial Trading Card Collection

The world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ and Keepsake Trading Cards today announced that a limited edition trading card set will debut later this summer, the first trading card set for the club in over 25 years. It is the latest fan-centric addition for the organization as they continue through their Centennial season, which began last month and will continue around the world.

“The collectable world continues to expand its reach, and this partnership with Keepsake gives us the ability to again find ways to connect with fans around the world in a very special way,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “The limited edition set will provide a surprise and delight for everyone and will be a really special way for fans of all ages to connect our past, present and future.”

“The Globetrotters are one of those hallmark properties that fans around the world can identify with,” said Scott Allen of Keepsake Trading Cards. “ We believe these limited editions sets will quickly become must haves for collectors of all ages and backgrounds around the world.”

The limited edition sets, which will be available both on site at select arenas and hobby shops and online at www.keepsaketradingcards.com will feature cards of the current athletes on tour, as well as legends like Curly Neal, “Sweet Lou” Dunbar, and many others.

The initial collection will feature signatures and game used memorabilia from the Harlem Globetrotters players. Collectors can be on the lookout for special upcoming announcements for additional current and past basketball stars who will be included within the Harlem Globetrotters sets.

The Globetrotters Centennial season launched in January and is continuing throughout the world, visiting over 200 domestic markets and another 125+ internationally. Fans can expect all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®, epic pre-game Magic Pass experiences, 100 Year limited edition merchandise and many other new innovations for the “Ambassadors of Basketball.” International markets such as France, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Mexico, and across Asia are just a few of the many locations the Harlem Globetrotters will be touring in winter of 2026 and running through the remainder of the year.

The Harlem Globetrotters And Sprite Announce Global Partnership

The world-famous, Harlem Globetrotters™ and Sprite today announced a multifaceted partnership where Sprite will become the Presenting Partner For North America and Official Global Partner For The Rest of the World as the organization continues through its Centennial season. This new partnership reunites the Harlem Globetrotters with one of its original brand partners; The Coca Cola Company, which had a working relationship with the brand for close to 75 years.
“When you mention iconic, historic and global brands, both Sprite and its parent company The Coca Cola Company, and the Globetrotters come to mind for consumers anywhere you go,” said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “This new relationship with a brand that had once been part of our glorious history sends a loud message that the work we are doing for our Centennial and beyond is resonating with consumers more today than it has in years. We welcome Sprite as a presenting and global partner, and look forward to all the good we can do together.”  
“Welcoming Sprite and The Coca Cola Company as our official Global Partner, re-establishes our long tenured sports partnership with the historic beverage brand, to once again reach millions of fans and consumers across the world, said Keith Dawkins, President, Harlem Globetrotters & Herschend Entertainment Studios. “Together, our brands will infuse a holistic approach that will be visible on and off the court, maximizing each of our strengths across arena activation, in-game experience, digital/social, and retail. “

“Basketball culture has always been core to Sprite, and there are few brands that embody creativity, energy, and global impact quite like the Harlem Globetrotters,” said Terika Fasakin, Senior Director, NAOU Sprite. “For 100 years, the Harlem Globetrotters have shown up with an authentic style that pushes originality and individuality, the same spirit that has defined Sprite’s role in basketball culture for decades. We’re proud to partner with the Harlem Globetrotters as they mark this historic milestone and continue shaping the future of basketball culture.”
 
Key elements of the new partnership have begun rolling out at arenas across North America this week. They include: on court branding, in-game activations between athletes and fans, a new in-game Sprite DJ takeover, as well as a half time takeover with Sprite prizing that will include ‘free Sprite for a year and a Sprite branded half time trick shot.

There will also be expanded social content and influencer collaborations, activations within the newly launched “Sprite Squad” loyalty program and collaboration on custom merchandise, as well as other programs in the consumer space away from games.
The Globetrotters Centennial season launched in January and is continuing throughout the world, visiting over 200 domestic markets and another 125+ internationally. Fans can expect all-new surprises like the Golden Basketball by Spalding®, epic pre-game Magic Pass experiences, 100 Year limited edition merchandise and many other new innovations for the “Ambassadors of Basketball.” International markets such as France, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Netherlands, Mexico, and across Asia are just a few of the many locations the Harlem Globetrotters will be touring in winter of 2026 and running through the remainder of the year. Tickets for “100 Year Tour” can be purchased HERE.

Tracy McGrady’s OBL, The Premier 1 v 1 Basketball League in the World, Set For May 2026 Re-launch

OBL (Ones Basketball League) today formally announced the re-envisioning of its premier 1 v 1 basketball league founded by basketball Hall of Famer and entrepreneur Tracy McGrady and now backed by a multi-million dollar growth capital investment by Next Gen Sports. “OBL: Battle of the Cities” will take an expanded version of the original OBL, with elite one-on-one athletes bringing their own vision, culture and prestige tied to the city from where they grew up, played and/or call home. Each city-based team will have a three man roster, comprised of players who best reflect the tradition, values and basketball culture of the city the 1 v 1 team represents, hand selected by the Owners/GMs. “OBL: Battle of the Cities” will take place over multiple weeks in Orlando, Florida, where McGrady was raised playing 1 v 1 himself, from May 15 to June 30, with teams competing for the swagger, pride, and identity of every city represented. Potential participants can still submit information at https://oblhoops.com/.

“The way we’re building this version of OBL, it’s not just about skill, it’s about toughness, personality and authenticity. Every team and every player is bringing their own story and their own energy to the game,” McGrady said. “We’re also excited about these legends stepping in to help shape these teams. We’ve got some of the most respected voices in basketball, media and entertainment getting involved and people who really understand the culture of the game. Together we’re building something that goes way beyond just one-on-one basketball.”

In addition to McGrady’s leadership, each city-based team will be led by their celebrity owner/GM who will select the very best 1 v 1 hoopers to represent that city.
The cities and coaches include:

1. Team Orlando – Vince Carter, NBA Hall of Famer
2. Team Washington, DC – Quinn Cook, two-time NBA Champion
3. Team Miami – Tim Hardaway Sr., five-time NBA All-Star
4. Team New York – Jadakiss, recording star and basketball insider
5. Team Chicago – Larenz Tate, actor, film producer, basketball aficionado
6. Team Raleigh – John Wall, five-time NBA All-Star
7. Team Atlanta – Stay Tuned
8. Team Baltimore – Stay Tuned

“We are honored, humbled and couldn’t be more proud to be able to work with Tracy and this world-class roster of Owners and GMs to bring the OBL to unforeseen heights,” said Heath Freeman, Managing Partner, Next Gen Sports, and Chairman of OBL.

OBL will host a multi-week season where eight initial cities will field teams featuring hoopers who fit the criteria of embodying the heart and essence of their respective cities, bringing a unique and dynamic aspect to their representation. Cities battle for pride and prize, each sending out one player at a time in 1-on-1 matchups. Thrilling, quick games that keep audiences on the edge of their seat. The production will feature intense game-play, as well as a deeper look into player backgrounds and real individual stories centering on highlighting players’ talent and authenticity.

Balance of Nature Returns as a Proud Partner of Team Boxing League

Team Boxing League (“TBL”) is proud to announce the renewal of its multi-platform partnership with Balance of Nature, a category leader in whole fruit, vegetable, and fiber supplements. As a “Proud Partner of TBL” Balance of Nature will once again play a prominent role throughout TBL’s highly anticipated fourth season. With its unique team-based format, high-intensity matchups, and rapidly expanding national viewership, TBL provides Balance of Nature with a dynamic platform to connect with health-conscious sports fans across the country.

As part of the partnership, Balance of Nature will receive prominent exposure throughout TBL broadcasts. The brand will also maintain a strong on-site presence, with placement on ring corner pads and ring ropes at all TBL events. Beyond live competition, Balance of Nature will be fully integrated into TBL’s digital and social media campaigns and featured through digital advertising on the league’s official website. The partnership will also include exclusive, athlete-driven content collaborations distributed through Balance of Nature’s owned and organic media channels, highlighting how TBL fighters prioritize performance, wellness, and recovery.

“Balance of Nature is excited to continue our partnership with TBL, as the first year was a resounding success,” said Lex Howard, Balance of Nature CEO. “Elite performance starts with daily discipline — both in training and in nutrition. TBL athletes compete at an incredibly high level, and we’re proud to support them with whole-food nutrition that fits into their demanding schedules. This partnership reflects our commitment to fueling those who push their limits, both within the league and for those who are tuning in.”

“We’re thrilled to renew our partnership with Balance of Nature and have them continue to be part ofthe TBL family,” added Kevin Cassidy, CEO of Team Boxing League. “As we enter our fourth season, TBL’s growth has exceeded expectations. Renewing with a trusted brand like Balance of Nature speaks to the strength of our platform and the value we deliver to partners.”