GCC Summit: Strengthening ties amid multiple regional challengesIntel expects US to shave chip-making grant, sources say

Iowa followed its lowest-scoring game of the season with a 110-point eruption the next time out. The Hawkeyes will be one week removed from that scorching effort when they host Northwestern in Tuesday's Big Ten opener in Iowa City, but rust won't be the only roadblock for a potential repeat showing. Iowa (6-1) also is bracing for stiffer competition in conference play while navigating an injury to Seydou Traore. The reserve forward suffered a sprained ankle midway through the first half of a 110-77 home rout of South Carolina Upstate on Nov. 26. Also missing frontcourt contributors Even Brauns and Cooper Koch, the Hawkeyes still flexed their resilience and depth. Brock Harding notched a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds and Owen Freeman netted 17 points as five Iowa players scored in double figures. "Coming off a loss, going into Thanksgiving break here, we've got a couple days off coming, it'd be easy to kinda (think), ‘All right, let's relax for this one, guys sit out,'" Harding said. "But I think we really locked in." Northwestern (6-2) overcame 40.8 percent shooting to defeat UNLV 66-61 in the third-place game of the Arizona Tip-Off on Friday in Tempe, Ariz. Brooks Barnhizer, a preseason All-Big Ten pick who was sidelined by a foot injury during the Wildcats' first four games, had team highs of 23 points, nine rebounds and six assists. He has scored at least 20 points in three of four games. Northwestern limited UNLV to a 42.1 percent effort from the floor. Matthew Nicholson propelled the defense with two of the Wildcats' seven steals to go with two blocks. "We're a defensive-minded team and, you know, our identity is just getting stops," Barnhizer said. "Everything else will take care of itself. So, the older guys were trying to come out here and do that tonight and I think we did a pretty good job of it." Strong ‘D' helped Northwestern's ball movement, too, as the Wildcats assisted on 15 of 20 made field goals. Northwestern went 8-for-18 (44.4 percent) from long range to improve to 3-0 this season when connecting on 40 percent of its 3-point shots or better. --Field Level MediaHegseth meets with moderate Sen. Collins as he lobbies for key votes in the Senate

Playwards Launches Innovative Gaming Platform Combining Fun and Real-World Rewards 12-02-2024 11:42 PM CET | Sports Press release from: ABNewswire New browser-based gaming portal offers engaging games without app downloads. Playwards, a pioneering gaming platform founded by Wilson, is excited to announce its official launch. The platform is set to revolutionize the gaming experience by offering a wide array of browser-based games that not only entertain but also provide opportunities for users to earn real-world rewards such as gift cards and vouchers by completing simple and enjoyable in-game missions. In an era where gamers seek both entertainment and value, Playwards stands out by merging the thrill of gaming with tangible rewards. Unlike other platforms that require cumbersome app installations or the completion of arduous tasks, Playwards offers a seamless, hassle-free experience accessible entirely through any web browser. This accessibility ensures that users can dive into their favorite games anytime, anywhere, without any barriers. "Playwards is more than just a gaming portal; it's a community where fun meets opportunity," said Wilson, founder of Playwards. "We've built this platform to ensure that everyone can enjoy quality games while earning meaningful rewards." The platform boasts a diverse selection of games catering to a variety of interests and skill levels. From casual puzzles to action-packed adventures, there's something for every type of gamer. The in-game missions are designed to be straightforward yet engaging, encouraging players to immerse themselves in the gaming experience while steadily accumulating points that can be redeemed for valuable rewards. A satisfied user, Michael from the USA, shared his enthusiasm: "I stumbled upon Playwards through an ad. It is refreshing to find a site that delivers what it promises. The games are super engaging, and the missions keep you coming back for more. Plus, earning points feels rewarding-no gimmicks or tricks. I can see myself using this for the long term." Playwards' unique approach addresses a growing demand in the gaming community for platforms that offer more than just entertainment. By integrating a reward system, the platform not only enhances user engagement but also provides an incentive for continued participation. This model benefits both casual gamers looking for fun and dedicated players seeking to maximize their rewards. The user-friendly interface and intuitive design make navigating Playwards a breeze. New users can sign up quickly and start playing immediately, without the need for downloads or installations. The platform is optimized for performance, ensuring smooth gameplay and an enjoyable user experience across various devices. Wilson added, "Our mission is to create a gaming environment that values our players' time and commitment. By offering real-world rewards, we aim to give back to our community and make gaming a more enriching experience." For those interested in exploring what Playwards has to offer, the platform is now live and ready to welcome new players. Whether you're looking to unwind with some casual gaming or eager to earn rewards while having fun, Playwards invites you to join its growing community. For more information or to start playing, visit https://playwards.com [ https://playwards.com/ ]. About Playwards Playwards is an innovative gaming platform that combines engaging browser-based games with the opportunity to earn real-world rewards. Founded by Wilson, the platform offers a unique gaming experience without the need for app downloads. By completing simple in-game missions, players can earn points redeemable for gift cards and vouchers. Playwards is committed to creating a community where fun and opportunity meet. Media Contact Company Name: Playwards Contact Person: Wilson Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=playwards-launches-innovative-gaming-platform-combining-fun-and-realworld-rewards ] Country: United States Website: https://playwards.com This release was published on openPR.Kanye West, Bianca Censori make rare appearance amid legal drama Kanye West steps out in Tokyo with Bianca Censori while staying mum on case Kanye West and Bianca Censori made a joint appearance in Tokyo for a night out as the rapper faces harassment accusations. The 47-year-old rapper and his wife appeared in the Japanese capital sporting a white hoodie and pants, paired with black shoes. The Yeezy founder pulled his hood over the head, as he was spotted riding the escalators up towards the Toho Cinemas. Meanwhile, the 29-year-old architecture was seen wearing another one of her signature unitards. Censori donned a sheer white body suit for the outing, paired with white pumps. She pulled her hair back into a sleek bun and completed her look with dark shades. This comes after the Runaway hitmaker has been facing legal accusations by a former employee. Social media personality Lauren Pisciotta sued West for allegedly raping, sexually harassing, and stalking her while she worked for him in 2021-22. Supported by her attorney, she filed the suit in June, right after West left the US. A recent legal document accused him of evading the court proceedings after he has not responded to notices. 'Nutcrackers:' Ben Stiller's shocking experience on set Liam Payne shocking move revealed one month prior to death Prince Andrew makes public return after close call Dwayne Johnson 'cant wait' to reunite with daughters on Christmas

Former Virginia guard Jalen Warley is transferring to Gonzaga, according to several reports Monday. Gonzaga appeared to confirm the transfer by reposting the news on social media. Warley, who has 96 college games (58 starts) under his belt, will use a redshirt this year and spend 2025-26 in Spokane, Wash. Warley played three seasons at Florida State before transferring to Virginia before the 2024-25 season. He was allowed to enter the transfer portal again following the surprise retirement of coach Tony Bennett just three weeks before the season. With the Seminoles, Warley averaged 6.0 points, 2.9 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game. His junior year was his best, as he put up 7.5 points, 2.8 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 1.3 steals per game over 33 appearances (32 starts). --Field Level MediaFIFA confirms Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup host despite human rights concerns ZURICH (AP) — Saudi Arabia has been officially confirmed by FIFA as host of the 2034 World Cup in men’s soccer. The Saudi bid was the only candidate and was acclaimed by the applause of more than 200 FIFA member federations. They took part remotely in an online meeting hosted in Zurich on Wednesday by the soccer body’s president Gianni Infantino. The decision was combined with approving the only candidate to host the 2030 World Cup. Spain, Portugal and Morocco will co-host in a six-nation project, with Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay each getting one of the 104 games. The South American connection will mark the centenary of Uruguay hosting the first World Cup in 1930. Rape allegation against Jay-Z won’t impact NFL's relationship with music mogul, Goodell says IRVING, Texas (AP) — NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says a rape allegation against rapper Jay-Z won’t impact the NFL's relationship with the music mogul. Jay-Z's company Roc Nation has produced some of the NFL’s entertainment presentations including the Super Bowl halftime show. A woman who previously sued Sean “Diddy” Combs alleging she was raped at an awards show after-party in 2000 amended the lawsuit Sunday to include an allegation that Jay-Z was also at the party and participated in the sexual assault. Jay-Z says the rape allegation made against him is part of an extortion attempt. The NFL teamed up with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation in 2019 for events and social activism. The league and the entertainment company extended their partnership a few months ago. All-Star left-hander Garrett Crochet acquired by Red Sox from White Sox for prospects DALLAS (AP) — All-Star left-hander Garrett Crochet has been acquired by the Boston Red Sox from the Chicago White Sox for four prospects. Catcher Kyle Teel, infielder Chase Meidroth, right-hander Wikelman Gonzalez and outfielder Braden Montgomery are headed to Chicago. The 25-year-old Crochet was 6-12 with a 3.58 ERA in 32 starts for a White Sox team that went 41-121. It's the most losses for any club since 1900. He was picked for the AL All-Star team in his first season as a starter. Selected 11th overall by Chicago in the 2020 amateur draft, Crochet made his big league debut that September. He had Tommy John surgery in April 2022. NFL will consider replay assist for facemask penalties and other plays IRVING, Texas (AP) — The NFL will consider expanding replay assist to include facemask penalties and other plays. Officials have missed several obvious facemask penalties this season, including two in a three-week span during Thursday night games. League executive Troy Vincent also cited hits on a defenseless player, tripping, the fair catch, an illegal bat, an illegal double-team block, illegal formations on kickoffs and taunting as other areas that warrant consideration for replay assist. Current rules only allow replay assist to help officials pick up a flag incorrectly thrown on the field, or in assisting proper enforcement of a foul called on the field. The NFL’s Competition Committee will review potential recommendations for owners to vote on for expanding replay assist. Ohio politician proposes make flag planting a felony after fight in Michigan rivalry game An Ohio politician has seen enough flag planting. Republican state Rep. Josh Williams said Wednesday on social media he's introducing a bill to make flag planting in sports a felony in the state. His proposal comes after the Nov. 30 fight at the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry football game when the Wolverines beat the Buckeyes 13-10 and then attempted to plant their flag at midfield. A fight ensued and police had to use pepper spray to disperse the players. Former Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield famously planted a flag in the middle of the field at Ohio State after the Sooners beat the Buckeyes in 2017. Jimmy Butler says he's not worrying about his future with Heat amid trade speculation Jimmy Butler knows there are tons of questions about his future with the Miami Heat. He might get traded, he might leave as a free agent next summer, he might exercise a $52.4 million option to return to the Heat or he might get a new contract. He isn't sure what will happen. The Heat forward spoke out about trade speculation Wednesday, telling reporters after practice that he doesn’t mind his name being in the rumor mill. US Biathlon officials ignored sexual harassment and abuse of female racers for decades, athletes say Sexual abuse and harassment by coaches and others who held positions of power over women on the U.S. Biathlon team were ignored or excused over decades by officials more concerned with winning medals than holding offenders accountable. That's according to Olympians and other biathletes interviewed by The Associated Press. While the men climbed the sport's ranks, these women say they were forced to end their careers early. The women and others describe a culture of misogyny and say they faced retaliation for speaking up. Three of the men denied allegations they were either part of the abuse or ignored allegations of abuse. A fourth did not respond to AP requests for comment. Man City crisis deepens with loss to Juventus in Champions League as Barcelona and Arsenal win Manchester City plunged deeper into trouble in the Champions League by losing 2-0 at Juventus in the latest setback in a scarcely believable run of poor results for the ailing English champions. City dropped to 22nd place in the 36-team standings and only the top 24 advances. Reaching the knockout stage looked a certainty before the season for a team that was European champion in 2022 and has won the last four Premier League titles. It's not anymore as City manager Pep Guardiola battles injuries and an apparent loss of belief among his players. Arsenal beat Monaco 3-0 and Barcelona won 3-2 at Borussia Dortmund. Tulane QB Mensah transfers to Duke; Mississippi State’s Van Buren, Cal’s Mendoza enter portal Former Tulane quarterback Darian Mensah has already found a new program in Duke, while Mississippi State’s Michael Van Buren Jr. and Cal’s Fernando Mendoza are exploring changes of their own in the transfer portal. Mensah is a redshirt freshman with three years of eligibility remaining. He told ESPN on Wednesday he has transferred to Duke. He attended the Blue Devils men’s basketball game against Incarnate Word on Tuesday night. The Blue Devils will face Mississippi in the Gator Bowl, but without 2024 starting quarterback Maalik Murphy and backup Grayson Loftis, who also entered the portal. Lindsey Vonn savors chance to test out World Cup course as a forerunner in comeback bid at age 40 BEAVER CREEK, Colo. (AP) — Lindsey Vonn is trying to take her comeback step-by-step even if there’s plenty of reason to look down the road. For now, the 40-year-old American ski racer was concentrating on testing out the course as a forerunner. Soon, it will be her first World Cup race. Possibly later, the 2026 Winter Games at one of her favorite venues in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Vonn was one of three forerunners to test out the Birds of Prey course before the racers in the field went through a training run. Federica Brignone of Italy had the fastest time on a Birds of Prey course that’s new to quite a few racers.