The Shotgun/Throwdown (10/1/25): 34 days until WVU basketball tips off a new era

Gonzaga University has secured its first commitment for the 2026 basketball class from German guard Jack Kayil. This marks an exciting step for the Zags as they continue to expand their recruitment efforts internationally, bringing in talent from across the globe. Kayil's commitment not only strengthens the team's future prospects but also highlights Gonzaga's growing reputation as a destination for top international players.

Syracuse basketball is mourning the loss of former star Lawrence Moten, who passed away at the age of 53. Known for holding the scoring record from his time in the early 1990s, Moten's death has left a significant impact on the community. Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim, who recruited and coached Moten, expressed his deep sorrow over the loss. This news matters not only for the Syracuse basketball family but also for fans who remember Moten's contributions to the sport.

The LPGA has officially announced that the 2028 Solheim Cup will be held from September 8-10 at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville. This prestigious event, which showcases the best female golfers from Europe and the United States, is set to be the 21st edition of the tournament. The choice of Valhalla, known for its stunning course and rich history in hosting major golf events, adds excitement for fans and players alike. This announcement not only highlights the growing popularity of women's golf but also promises to bring significant attention to Louisville as a premier sports destination.

Dan Titus has released his top 150 fantasy basketball rankings tailored for Yahoo's new High Score format. This is significant for fantasy basketball enthusiasts as it provides a fresh perspective and strategic insights that can enhance their gameplay. With the new format, players will need to adapt their strategies, making these rankings a valuable resource for both seasoned players and newcomers.

Dan Titus shares valuable insights for fantasy basketball enthusiasts looking to thrive in Yahoo's new default format. With the season underway, understanding the unique strategies and tips can significantly enhance a manager's chances of success. This guidance is crucial as it helps players adapt to the changes and make informed decisions, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable and competitive fantasy experience.

Yahoo has introduced a new High Score format for fantasy basketball, and Dan Titus is here to guide fantasy managers on how to navigate this change effectively. With his insights, players can optimize their draft strategy to maximize their chances of success in this exciting new setup. This matters because adapting to new formats can significantly impact team performance and overall enjoyment of the game.

In the latest episode of the West By Pod podcast, hosts Joel and Jordan discuss the recent challenges faced by the West Virginia University football team following a tough weekend. They analyze what went wrong in the game against Utah and look ahead to the upcoming matchup against BYU. This conversation is important for fans as it provides insights into the team's performance and what they can expect moving forward.

This weekend, Team Europe and the Red Roses showcased the power of their historical legacies in sports, reminding us that making history is not just a moment but a journey. By embracing their past, both teams demonstrated the strength of identity and resilience, which are crucial when facing challenges. This connection to history not only enriches their performance but also inspires fans and future athletes, highlighting the importance of understanding where we come from to shape where we are going.

Nico Iamaleava's transfer from the Tennessee Volunteers to the UCLA Bruins has taken an unexpected turn after the firing of coach Tino Sunseri. This change raises concerns about Iamaleava's future at UCLA, as he initially committed to the program under Sunseri's guidance. The situation highlights the instability in college football coaching and how it can impact players' decisions and careers.

UCLA has decided to part ways with offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri following a challenging start to the season. This decision reflects the university's commitment to improving its football program and signals a shift in strategy as they aim to enhance their performance on the field. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how this change impacts the team's future.

The Blazers are kicking off their training camp with a focus on pushing players out of their comfort zones. This approach is designed to foster growth and resilience, which is crucial for the team's development as they prepare for the upcoming season. By challenging their players, the Blazers aim to build a stronger, more competitive squad that can adapt to the pressures of professional basketball.

UCLA football is facing a challenging season, having started with a disappointing 0-4 record. In a bid to turn things around, the program has parted ways with offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri, just weeks after head coach DeShaun Foster was also let go. This shake-up highlights the urgency within the team to find a winning strategy and improve performance, as fans and stakeholders are eager for a turnaround.

Dave Portnoy has expressed a strong interest in becoming the WNBA commissioner, suggesting that under his leadership, the league could thrive with enhanced visibility and excitement. His vision includes making the league more dynamic, with better travel and dining experiences for players. This matters because it highlights the potential for innovative leadership in women's sports, which could lead to increased popularity and support for the WNBA.

Shane van Gisbergen is emerging as a strong favorite for the upcoming NASCAR race at Charlotte, which is crucial as it serves as an elimination event. This race is significant not only for the drivers but also for fans, as it could determine who advances in the championship. With the latest odds favoring van Gisbergen, excitement is building around his potential performance.

Jordan Love, the Green Bay Packers quarterback, has been impressively performing on third downs this season, showcasing skills reminiscent of Aaron Rodgers. While fans have had mixed feelings about him in the past, his recent stats indicate a significant improvement, suggesting he may be finding his footing as a reliable leader for the team. This development is crucial as it could signal a new era for the Packers, especially after the transition from Rodgers.

As Vanderbilt prepares for a crucial game against Alabama, former NFL quarterback Johnny Manziel has stepped in to offer mentorship to Commodores QB Diego Pavia. This matchup is significant not only because it’s a rematch of a stunning upset from the previous season but also because a win could redefine Vanderbilt's football program. Manziel's guidance could be pivotal for Pavia as they face a formidable opponent, making this game a key moment for both the players and the team.

This Sunday is shaping up to be an exciting day for sports fans in Seattle as both the Seahawks and Mariners are set to play. The Mariners will have a later first pitch for Game 2 of the American League Division Series, allowing fans to enjoy both games without any overlap. This scheduling decision by Major League Baseball not only highlights the importance of the Mariners' playoff run but also ensures that the local sports community can rally behind both teams, making it a thrilling day for Seattle sports enthusiasts.

In a recent CBS Sports survey, Purdue basketball coach Matt Painter has been recognized as the best tactician in college basketball, surpassing UConn's Dan Hurley. This accolade highlights Painter's exceptional ability to design plays that are nearly impossible for opponents to defend against. His innovative strategies not only enhance Purdue's performance but also set a standard for coaching excellence in the sport.