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  • ‘Better than MJ’: Josh Giddey closes in on Michael Jordan’s historic Bulls record

    ‘Better than MJ’: Josh Giddey closes in on Michael Jordan’s historic Bulls record

    Australian basketball sensation Josh Giddey is rapidly approaching one of Michael Jordan’s most formidable Chicago Bulls records, positioning himself for what could become one of the most surprising statistical achievements in modern NBA history. The 23-year-old guard has now surpassed Bulls legend Scottie Pippen to claim second place on the franchise’s all-time triple-double list.

    Giddey recorded his 16th triple-double for Chicago in Monday’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings, contributing 15 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists despite his team’s 126-110 defeat. This accomplishment places him directly behind only Michael Jordan, who accumulated 28 triple-doubles during his legendary tenure with the Bulls.

    The statistical comparison between the two players reveals Giddey’s remarkable efficiency in achieving this milestone. While Jordan needed 930 regular-season games to establish his record, Giddey has reached his 16 triple-doubles in just 112 appearances for the franchise. This pace suggests the Australian international could potentially challenge Jordan’s long-standing record within the coming seasons.

    Giddey’s recent performance comes after a brief absence due to an ankle injury, demonstrating his resilience and immediate impact upon returning to the lineup. His consistent all-around contributions have been a rare bright spot for the struggling Bulls, who have won only two games since February and currently sit 12th in the Eastern Conference standings, mathematically eliminated from playoff contention.

    The team’s next challenge comes against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday, where Giddey will continue his pursuit of basketball history while attempting to help his team finish the season on a positive note.

  • Japan prepares for deployment of its first home-developed long-range missile

    Japan prepares for deployment of its first home-developed long-range missile

    Japan has initiated the deployment of its first domestically developed long-range missiles, marking a significant escalation in the nation’s offensive military capabilities. The advanced Type-12 land-to-ship missiles, manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, began arriving at Camp Kengun in Kumamoto Prefecture during a covert midnight operation that drew immediate local protests.

    The deployment, confirmed by Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara, will be completed by March’s end. The move comes as Japan accelerates its military modernization timeline by one year in response to growing regional security concerns, particularly regarding China’s activities around Taiwan.

    The newly upgraded missiles represent a substantial capability enhancement, with an operational range extending to approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles)—a fivefold increase over the original 200-kilometer version. This extended range places mainland China within striking distance, fundamentally altering Japan’s defensive posture.

    Local opposition has been vocal, with dozens of protesters gathering outside the military camp holding banners that read ‘Stop long-range missile deployment.’ Kumamoto Governor Takashi Kimura expressed frustration over the lack of transparency, noting his administration learned of the deployment through media reports rather than official channels.

    Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has outlined additional deployment plans, with Camp Fuji in Shizuoka scheduled to receive the missiles later this year. Further military enhancements include deploying midrange surface-to-air missiles on Yonaguni Island, located just east of Taiwan, by March 2031.

    The military expansion aligns with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s stated policy that Chinese military action against Taiwan could warrant Japanese response. Her administration is pursuing comprehensive defense reforms, including developing unmanned combat systems and potentially lifting restrictions on lethal arms exports to strengthen international defense cooperation.

  • ‘Get some joy’: Broncos won’t go easy on future teammate as Kotoni Staggs issues stark warning to Jonah Pezet

    ‘Get some joy’: Broncos won’t go easy on future teammate as Kotoni Staggs issues stark warning to Jonah Pezet

    Emerging playmaker Jonah Pezet finds himself at the center of a strategic battleground as his current team, the Parramatta Eels, prepares to face his future club, the Brisbane Broncos. The highly anticipated Round 2 NRL clash on Thursday night carries significant weight for both teams, each seeking redemption after disappointing opening-round performances.

    Pezet, who is slated to join the Broncos on a long-term deal in 2026 after a single season with the Eels, faces immediate pressure from his prospective teammates. Brisbane’s game plan explicitly targets Pezet’s defensive capabilities, with forward Jordan Riki and center Kotoni Staggs leading the charge on his edge of the field.

    This tactical approach mirrors the strategy employed by Pezet’s former Melbourne Storm team, who comprehensively defeated Parramatta in Round 1. During that match, Storm players relentlessly tested the young halfback, forcing him to make 21 tackles while missing two as Melbourne forward Joe Chan dominated with 198 meters gained and a try.

    The Broncos enter the contest reeling from a surprising 26-0 shutout against Penrith Panthers, completing just 62% of their sets. Despite concerns about a potential premiership hangover exacerbated by Payne Haas’s decision to join South Sydney next year and a World Club Challenge loss to Hull KR, Brisbane players remain confident.

    Staggs dismissed suggestions of a championship slump, stating, ‘They were better on the night and we just didn’t play our game. It was round one and we’ll get better from that.’ The center emphasized the team’s focus on internal improvement rather than external circumstances, acknowledging that ‘teams always come after us’ as defending premiers.

    The matchup represents a critical early-season test for both clubs, with the Broncos particularly eager to demonstrate their championship mettle remains intact despite the roster changes and early setbacks.

  • Iran threatens regional retaliation if fuel facilities attacked again

    Iran threatens regional retaliation if fuel facilities attacked again

    Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters issued a stark warning on Sunday, threatening retaliatory measures across the region if attacks on its fuel and energy facilities persist. The declaration came in response to coordinated US-Israeli strikes that targeted multiple fuel storage sites in Tehran and Alborz province on Saturday night, causing temporary disruptions to fuel supplies and raising significant environmental health concerns.

    Spokesman Ebrahim Zolfaghari, addressing reporters through the Iranian Students’ News Agency, accused the United States and Israel of conducting ‘brutal assaults’ against Iran’s critical energy infrastructure and civilian service centers. He emphasized that these actions represented unacceptable aggression against both national assets and civilian populations.

    Zolfaghari called upon Muslim nations throughout the region to intervene and pressure Washington and Jerusalem to cease their ‘cowardly and inhumane operations.’ He delivered an unequivocal ultimatum: ‘Should these attacks continue, parallel retaliatory actions will be implemented across the region. If Western powers believe they can withstand oil prices exceeding $200 per barrel, they may proceed with this dangerous game.’

    This escalation follows the devastating February 28 joint operations by Israeli and American forces that struck multiple Iranian cities, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, several family members, senior military officials, and numerous civilians. Iran subsequently launched extensive missile and drone counterstrikes targeting Israeli territory and US military installations throughout the Middle East, significantly heightening regional tensions and threatening broader conflict escalation.

  • Australians must prove they are over 18 to access porn under new laws

    Australians must prove they are over 18 to access porn under new laws

    Australia has implemented groundbreaking legislation requiring digital platforms to enforce rigorous age verification systems for accessing adult-oriented content. Effective immediately, services including pornography websites, R-rated gaming platforms, and sexually explicit AI chatbots must implement robust age checks or face substantial financial penalties.

    The new regulatory framework, administered by Australia’s eSafety Commission, mandates the use of advanced verification methods such as facial recognition technology, digital ID systems, and credit card validation. This represents a significant escalation from the previous honor system where users simply clicked confirmation boxes.

    Commissioner Julie Inman Grant emphasized the necessity of these measures, drawing parallels to physical age restrictions: ‘We maintain strict age verification at venues serving alcohol, adult entertainment establishments, and gambling facilities, yet digital spaces have historically lacked equivalent protections.’

    The implementation follows Australia’s recent social media ban for users under 16, continuing the government’s aggressive approach to online child protection. Research conducted by the eSafety Commission revealed alarming statistics: approximately 33% of children aged 10-17 have encountered sexual content online, while over 70% have been exposed to high-impact violence, self-harm materials, and disordered eating content.

    However, the legislation faces substantial criticism from cybersecurity experts and digital rights advocates. Dr. Rahat Masood of the University of New South Wales warns that technologically proficient youth can easily circumvent these measures using VPNs, parental credentials, or alternative platforms. ‘These verification laws may establish barriers but are unlikely to completely prevent determined young people from accessing restricted content,’ Masood stated.

    Privacy concerns represent another significant challenge. Aylo, parent company of major pornographic platforms including RedTube and YouPorn, has temporarily blocked Australian users despite pledging compliance. The corporation expressed concerns that the legislation might inadvertently drive users toward unregulated platforms while creating data privacy vulnerabilities.

    Professor Seth Lazar of Australian National University criticized the approach as ‘extremely misguided from both technological and liberal perspectives,’ advocating instead for enhanced parental control technologies that support rather than replace parental judgment.

    The Australian initiative mirrors similar efforts internationally, including the United Kingdom’s implementation of age verification laws with penalties reaching £18 million or 10% of global revenue for non-compliant platforms.

  • Liverpool go back to Galatasaray cauldron in Champions League last 16

    Liverpool go back to Galatasaray cauldron in Champions League last 16

    The UEFA Champions League resumes this week with four compelling round of 16 first-leg fixtures, headlined by Liverpool’s highly anticipated return to the volatile atmosphere of Istanbul. The Reds face a formidable challenge against Turkish champions Galatasaray, who secured a 1-0 victory when these sides met during the group stage. This encounter takes on added significance for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, whose team’s Premier League title defense has faltered dramatically since late September, leaving them battling for top-four qualification rather than domestic supremacy.

    In team news, Liverpool received a significant boost with German playmaker Florian Wirtz returning from a back injury as a late substitute in Friday’s FA Cup victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Slot has downplayed concerns regarding Argentine midfielder Alexis Mac Allister after the World Cup winner was forced off with an apparent knock. Galatasaray enter the contest in formidable form, having recently defeated Istanbul rivals Besiktas 1-0 with Victor Osimhen netting his 18th goal of the season—seven of which have come in European competition.

    Meanwhile, German giants Bayern Munich travel to Italy to face Atalanta as clear favorites to advance. With the Bundesliga title effectively secured, Vincent Kompany’s side can focus entirely on European glory, though they exercised caution with star striker Harry Kane in their recent league match. Kane, who has netted 45 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions this campaign, was rested due to a minor calf issue but is expected to return to peak condition within days.

    In Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur face a daunting trip to the Metropolitano Stadium, where they suffered heartbreak in the 2019 final against Liverpool. The current Spurs squad bears little resemblance to Mauricio Pochettino’s exciting team of that era, now finding themselves simultaneously fighting relegation in the Premier League while competing in Europe’s elite club competition. Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid, having fallen behind in La Liga, view this Champions League campaign as their primary remaining objective for the season.

    The fixture list concludes with Newcastle United hosting Barcelona at St James’ Park. The Catalan club already defeated the Magpies 2-1 during the group stage despite missing teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. Hansi Flick’s attacking side remains vulnerable defensively, particularly against pacey forwards like Anthony Gordon who could exploit their high defensive line. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe faces selection concerns with Lewis Miley ruled out through injury, though Nick Woltemade has recovered from illness and Tino Livramento is available from the bench.

  • Pressure builds for Australia to offer Iran women’s football team asylum

    Pressure builds for Australia to offer Iran women’s football team asylum

    Growing international pressure is urging Australian authorities to provide asylum protections for Iran’s women’s national football team following their silent protest during the national anthem at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup. The players’ refusal to sing before their March 8, 2026 match against Philippines in Gold Coast has been widely interpreted as an act of defiance against Tehran’s Islamic regime.

    Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last Shah and prominent opposition figure, has joined politicians, human rights activists, and author J.K. Rowling in calling for Australia’s intervention. From his US base, Pahlavi warned that team members face “significant pressure and ongoing threat” from Iranian authorities and urged the Australian government to “ensure their safety and give them any and all needed support.”

    The protest occurred during heightened tensions as the US and Israel initiated military actions against Iran. Iranian state television subsequently branded the athletes as “wartime traitors,” escalating concerns about their safety upon potential return.

    Local media documented dramatic scenes outside Gold Coast stadium where supporters gathered chanting “regime change for Iran” and “save our girls.” Protesters later surrounded the team bus demanding freedom for the players.

    While Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong stated the country “stands in solidarity” with the Iranian people, Canberra has remained noncommittal regarding specific asylum provisions. Amnesty International campaigner Zaki Haidari expressed grave concerns, suggesting team members likely have family members threatened in Iran and could face severe punishment upon return.

    Despite constant monitoring, Haidari noted the team might have a “small window of opportunity” to seek asylum at Australian border points. The Iranian embassy in Australia has not responded to requests for comment regarding the situation.

  • Oil prices soar as Iran names new supreme leader and digs in

    Oil prices soar as Iran names new supreme leader and digs in

    Global energy markets experienced significant turbulence on Monday as escalating Middle East hostilities sent oil prices soaring near $120 per barrel before moderating. The international benchmark Brent crude surged to $119.50 during early trading sessions, while West Texas Intermediate reached comparable heights, both ultimately settling approximately 9% higher above $101 per barrel.

    The price fluctuations followed strategic deliberations among G7 nations regarding potential releases from emergency petroleum reserves. French President Emmanuel Macron initially suggested coordinated action among industrialized powers to stabilize markets, though the group subsequently deferred such measures. French Finance Minister Roland Lescure confirmed the G7 remains prepared to implement ‘necessary and coordinated steps’ should market conditions require intervention.

    Geopolitical tensions intensified with Iran’s appointment of hard-line Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei as supreme leader, signaling continued resistance against Western military actions. The conflict’s expansion into critical energy infrastructure has severely disrupted regional operations, including Bahrain’s desalination plant and refinery complex damaged by alleged Iranian strikes, prompting force majeure declarations on oil shipments.

    The strategic Strait of Hormuz, conduit for approximately 20% of global oil shipments (15 million barrels daily), has effectively ceased operations due to security concerns. Major producers including Iraq, Kuwait, and the UAE have reduced output as storage capacity reaches limits amid export constraints.

    Asian economies face particular vulnerability given their heavy reliance on Middle Eastern energy imports. China, primary recipient of Iran’s 1.6 million daily barrel exports, emphasized energy security priorities through Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun. South Korea implemented anti-hoarding measures while Southeast Asian nations reported fuel shortages and extended queues at filling stations.

    Financial markets reflected broader economic anxieties, with South Korea’s Kospi index declining 6% and U.S. gasoline prices rising nearly 50 cents per gallon weekly. The current price levels recall early 2022 patterns following Russia’s Ukraine invasion, renewing concerns about inflationary pressures and consumer spending impacts across global economies.

  • South Africa men, New Zealand women win at the Vancouver Sevens

    South Africa men, New Zealand women win at the Vancouver Sevens

    VANCOUVER — The World Rugby Sevens Series witnessed two nations reinforcing their championship credentials with commanding performances in Vancouver this weekend. South Africa’s men’s team delivered a masterclass in sevens rugby, overpowering Spain 38-12 in Sunday’s final to claim their 47th World Series tournament title. The victory propelled the Springboks into a tie with Fiji atop the season standings.

    Tournament MVP Tristan Leyds orchestrated South Africa’s dominant first-half performance with a series of precision assists that dismantled Spain’s defense. His creative playmaking led to tries by Sebastian Jobb and Shilton van Wyk, establishing an insurmountable 17-0 halftime advantage. Despite a resilient effort from Spain that included scores from Jeremy Trevithick and Anton Legorburu Impi, South Africa’s physical superiority proved decisive throughout the championship match.

    In the women’s division, New Zealand extended their Vancouver dominance with a hard-fought 24-17 victory over Australia—their fifth consecutive title at this venue. The Black Ferns’ triumph marked their third tournament win this season and was spearheaded by the exceptional two-way performance of Jorja Miller, whose defensive pressure and offensive creativity proved instrumental.

    The match developed into a classic trans-Tasman rivalry showdown, with Australia mounting a spectacular second-half comeback from a 17-5 deficit to level the score at 17-17. However, New Zealand demonstrated championship composure in the closing moments, with Alena Saili scoring the match-winning try following precise setup work from Portia Waaka and captain Risi Pouri Lane.

    With one tournament remaining in New York before the season finals, New Zealand maintains a six-point standings advantage over Australia. The rivalry has dominated the women’s circuit this season, with these two nations contesting all five tournament finals to date.

    Spain’s surprising run to the men’s final included impressive victories over New Zealand in pool play and two-time Olympic champion Fiji in the semifinals, signaling their emergence as a rising force in international sevens.

  • Hezbollah says fighting Israeli forces who landed in east Lebanon

    Hezbollah says fighting Israeli forces who landed in east Lebanon

    Hezbollah forces engaged in combat with Israeli troops who conducted a helicopter landing operation in eastern Lebanon near the Syrian border on Monday, marking the second such incursion since the recent escalation of hostilities began. The Iranian-backed militant group reported detecting approximately 15 Israeli helicopters infiltrating from the Syrian side into the Nabi Sheet area of Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, a region under Hezbollah’s control.

    According to Hezbollah’s official statement, their fighters confronted the airborne units and ground forces with ‘appropriate weapons,’ with clashes ongoing throughout the day. Lebanon’s National News Agency corroborated the reports, describing ‘fierce clashes’ as local forces attempted to repel the Israeli operation. Two Hezbollah officials in the Bekaa region claimed that an Israeli helicopter had been downed during the engagement, though Israel’s military declined to immediately comment on the incident.

    This operation follows a similar failed Israeli commando mission in the same area just days earlier, which aimed to locate the remains of Ron Arad, an airman missing since 1986, but resulted in 41 casualties instead.

    Simultaneously, Beirut’s southern suburbs—a known Hezbollah stronghold—experienced renewed violence as Israeli strikes targeted what the military described as ‘infrastructure belonging to the Hezbollah terrorist organization.’ An AFP correspondent reported a loud explosion with visible smoke rising from the area, breaking a brief respite since Saturday’s attacks.

    The conflict has expanded significantly since Lebanon was drawn into the broader Middle East tensions last week when Hezbollah initiated attacks against Israel in retaliation for the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during joint US-Israeli strikes. Israel has maintained offensive operations despite the 2024 ceasefire, conducting multiple waves of strikes across Lebanon and deploying ground troops to border regions.

    Hezbollah also reported targeting Israeli soldiers entering the Lebanese border towns of Odaisseh and Aitaroun with artillery shells on Monday, with additional clashes reported in Odaisseh.

    The human cost continues to mount dramatically. Lebanese Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine reported Sunday that Israeli strikes have killed 394 people over the past week, including 83 children and 42 women. Israel confirmed its first military fatalities since the offensive began on March 2, with two soldiers killed in combat in southern Lebanon.