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Austen Bundy

Contributor

Austen Bundy is a journalist and sports junkie from the Washington, D.C. area. A proud Sun Devil alum, he graduated from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University. If it skates, runs, dribbles and/or scores, he's probably watching that game. You can follow him on X/Twitter @AustenBundyDC.

EXPERTISE:

NHL, Fútbol, NFL CFB, CBB, Tennis, Swimming

Copa America: Examining the favorites and top sleepers

Copa America 2024 will kick off June 20 with defending champions Argentina taking on Canada. "La Seleccion," led by international super star Lionel Messi, are heavy favorites to repeat along with perennial stalwarts Brazil. Which squads could crash the party?

Big 12, college corporatism are speeding up clock on NCAA's demise

The Big 12 has triggered a slow-moving avalanche that will eventually result in major athletic conferences seceding from the NCAA as they become more financially independent.

USA must replicate Brazil performance to succeed at Copa America

The U.S. Men's National Team pulled off a historic 1-1 draw against mighty Brazil in Orlando on Wednesday night. The tie was the first of its kind against the "Selecao" in 19 matches with the U.S.

Making the case for Denmark to win Euro 2024

The UEFA European Championship has a history of producing tournament dark horses.

Euro 2024: Why favorites could fall short of winning it all

The UEFA European Championship begins Friday with host Germany playing Scotland in the opening match.

Four hot issues ahead of Paris Olympics

The Summer Olympics in Paris will open July 26, but organizers and athletes are already facing potentially tough hurdles and conditions ahead of the opening ceremonies. Here are four issues to keep an eye on.

Why the Rose Bowl should be the permanent national championship game

The College Football Playoff released its schedule for the 2024-25 postseason on Wednesday with the new 12-team bracket format offering head-scratching assignments for the so-called New Year's Six bowl games, particularly the Rose Bowl.

Why Manchester City's lawsuit against Premier League is obstructive nonsense

Champions Manchester City is taking unprecedented legal action against the Premier League.

Six small, non-U.S. soccer teams Americans should consider following

With Major League Soccer and the National Women's Soccer League posting record attendance in 2023, soccer continues to grow in the United States. In 2026, the sport could get another positive jolt in North America when the men's World Cup is played in the U.S., Mexico and Canada. For those new to soccer or looking for fresh clubs to back, here are six teams for American fans to consider supporting next season.

Why Arizona State could be dark horse to win Big 12 basketball title

The Big 12 is a men's basketball powerhouse, with Kansas and Baylor winning the national title in two of the past four seasons.

Why the Suns shouldn't draft Bronny James

The Phoenix Suns need help to get back on track in the quest for their first NBA title, but Bronny James shouldn't be part of their future.

Is Josh Gibson in the conversation for greatest baseball player of all time?

Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb and Barry Bonds are just a few names tossed around when debating who the greatest baseball player of all time is. But now, Josh Gibson is making his long overdue case for the coveted title.

Despite recent form, Rafael Nadal's legacy is still gold standard for tennis

After an uncharacteristic first round exit on Monday from the French Open, Rafael Nadal, the 'King of Clay' and one of the greatest to ever play tennis, may (or may not) have played the final match of his illustrious career.

NCAA settlement might make college athletics more competitive

The NCAA's revenue-sharing plan is going to massively change the operations of college athletic programs.

Nationals should prioritize prospects, not trade-chip veterans in slumping lineup

The Washington Nationals have the No. 5 prospect in baseball in outfielder James Wood, but have curiously refused to call him up to the big leagues in recent weeks despite the team struggling to break out of a serious slump.

Manchester City's dynasty will end, but who will claim the throne next?

Manchester City clinched a historic fourth consecutive Premier League title Sunday, continuing a dynasty that has seen them win six of the last seven English top flight titles. But all good things come to an end, and there are signs City is approaching that inevitable conclusion. So who is waiting in the wings to claim the throne?

Michael Phelps spotlights athletes' struggles with mental health

Five-time Olympian Michael Phelps recently highlighted his yearslong battle with depression and pushed for more attention for athletes' mental health ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.