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jili super ace demo With Thanksgiving now in the rearview mirror, we now are all set to be treated to an early holiday gift in the form of high school basketball season in the Pioneer Athletic Conference. A couple of local squads kicked things off over Thanksgiving weekend, while the rest of the bunch will join the party this week. Before the Mercury gets out on the game trail, let’s take a closer, team-by-team look at how the dozen PAC schools are shaping up entering the 2024-25 season: LIBERTY DIVISION Boyertown Head coach: Travis Miller, fourth season Last year’s record: 7-14 overall, 2-11 PAC, 1-9 Liberty Key contributors: Trey Kern, Sr.; Keeshawn Copeland, Sr.; Cooper Rath, Jr.; Joey Schreiner, Jr. Outlook: Last season, Boyertown started hot out of the gate, winning four of its first five games including the team’s conference opener against OJR. An eight-game losing skid knocked the Bears a bit off their axis; now, in 2024-25, the team is hoping some early growing pains leads to more consistency as the season progresses into 2025. Boyertown loses three senior starters in Jack Greaves, Braedyn Johnson and Brant Rath, all of whom averaged between 9-10 PPG, but does return senior all-league selection and leading scorer Trey Kern (12.1 PPG). Fellow senior Keeshawn Copeland is another strong guard who can dictate tempo in the backcourt, while juniors Cooper Rath and Joey Schreiner are light on varsity experience but heavy on potential. And while the Bears don’t return many varsity minutes, early returns on team chemistry have been promising. “One thing (head) Coach (Travis) Miller has been preaching all offseason has been ‘strength in numbers,’” said assistant coach Dan Hoff. “There are guys we’re not sure about yet because they don’t have a ton of varsity experience, but we’re still hoping they can step up and help out. We’re going to play some young guys and hope for the best. “This is one of the closest teams I’ve ever been around. The way they pick each other up and have each other’s backs is enjoyable to be around. In some ways it’s kind of an ‘ignorance is bliss thing’ and they can just go out and play. It’s no secret we want to push for a spot in the league and district playoffs as a measuring stick on whether or not it was a successful season.” The Bears dropped their first game of the season 57-26 to Conrad Weiser. Methacton Head coach: Pat Lockard, fifth season Last year’s record: 19-9 overall, 10-3 PAC, 8-2 Liberty; finished fifth in District 1-6A playoffs, lost to Archbishop Wood in first round of PIAA playoffs Key contributors: Sal Iemmelo, Sr. PG; Mason Conrad, Jr. G; Wes Robinson, Jr. wing; Jahmir Carter, Jr. F; Jack Lineen, So. G Outlook: All Pat Lockard has done in his four years as Methacton’s head coach is win, doing so at a 70 percent clip with a district playoff win in each season and two PIAA berths to show for it. The expectations will be similar this season, though the Warriors will need to figure out how to replace multiple key contributors. Leading scorer Christian Matos (17.2 PPG) transferred to Archbishop Carroll, and other program stalwarts such as all-league selection Alex Hermann (12.0 PPG; now playing at Arcadia), proven leader Anthony Daddazio (7.9 PPG) and sharpshooter Manny Rodriguez all graduated from last year’s 19-win squad. Methacton returns two starters in senior point guard Sal Iemmelo (11.1 PPG) and junior guard Mason Conrad, as well as junior wing Wes Robinson. Sophomore guard Jack Lineen and 6-3 junior football player Jahmir Carter are also expected to play quality minutes in the rotation. “We have some key pieces to replace but are confident in the guys we have to replace them,” Lockard said. “An area of strength is our variety of ballhandlers – guys who can attack the basket and break down defenders. We should be balanced at guard/wing, but on the flip side we don’t have a lot of size. “Our guys are itching to win a PAC championship. Last year we felt that we left something on the table. Otherwise, we’re gunning for a top 10 spot in the district, which is something that is achievable but certainly not easy. We need to execute the little things and buy in.” Norristown Head coach: Chris Podsobinski, second season Last year’s record: 12-11 overall, 7-6 PAC, 4-6 Liberty; lost to Pottstown in PAC playoffs Key contributors: Tyson Tuggle, Sr.; Wade Scott, Sr.; Pete Van Duyne, So. Outlook: After accepting the Norristown head coaching job late in the summer of 2023, Chris Podsobinski is most excited with the continuity year two will bring — even if it’s with a majority of new faces. The Eagles were senior-heavy in 2023-24 and graduated their entire starting lineup: Myon Kirlew (17.2 PPG), Jayden Byrd (16.9), Rashon Giddens (9.4), Kevin Bonds (9.2) and Miles Daniels (7.0). Senior Tyson Tuggle, a consistent shooter who was the team’s sixth man last season, ascends to the top chair this year and will be charged with leading a youthful Eagles squad on and off the court. Senior Wade Scott was Norristown’s JV MVP a season ago, and fellow JV stalwart Pete Van Duyne turned heads as a freshman. After that, it’s a lot of unknowns, which is just fine for Podsobinski. “I wish we had another month, because we were *this* close (to figuring it out),” Podsobinski said. “Last year we had two guys who scored 17 per game, whereas now no one’s ‘the guy.’ If these young guys can grow quickly, I think we can do some things. If it’s more of a learning curve, then next year we’ll be primed to do some things. We’re excited to re-mold stuff. “It’s not a one or two-man show. They’re still learning and feeling each other out right now, but the way we play together as a group has been encouraging. These guys are unselfish.” Norristown, which won its season-opener over Collegium Charter, went 0-6 against Spring-Ford, Methacton and Perkiomen Valley last season. If the Eagles can flip some of those results to wins, then Podsobinski believes his team will be in the hunt for both league and district playoffs. Perkiomen Valley Head coach: Mike Poysden, 13th season Last year’s record: 20-7 overall, 10-3 PAC, 7-3 Liberty; lost to CB East in District 1-6A second round Key contributors: Jakob Harken, Sr. G; Anthony Rodriguez, Sr. G; Colin Hollingsworth, Sr. F; Jon Boyd, Jr. G; Ty Hoppenwasser, So. F Outlook: This will be a very different-looking Perk Valley team that ended the 2023-24 season, with Julian Sadler, Josh Tagert, Kyle Shawaluk, Ryan Murphy and Sean Wagoner all graduating. Sadler, in particular, will be a tough loss to overcome as his 1,450 career points are third-most in program history and his 22.7 points per game average last season ranked second in the PAC. Harken, a 6-4 Rochester Institute of Technology commit, brings the most varsity experience and worked tirelessly this offseason to become the top guy in the team’s hierarchy. Anthony Rodriguez, Colin Hollingsworth and Jon Boyd all bring toughness to the table as PV football players, with the latter in his first year at Perk Valley after transferring from Malvern Prep. There is a lot of new, yes, but that doesn’t mean the normally high expectations within the program have fallen by the wayside. “I’m excited about the effort and intensity we are bringing into our improvement,” Poysden said. “With a lot of new contributors to the varsity level, it is an enjoyable process to play through and coach them through their new roles and expectations. We believe we can compete with anyone on our schedule and look forward to challenging ourselves throughout the year. “Our goal each year is to try to earn the right to play extra basketball. If we commit to constant improvement and playing for our teammates, we expect to find success.” The Vikings split their first two contests of this season, knocking off CB South and falling to CB West. Pope John Paul II Head coach: Earl Wise, second season Last year’s record: 12-11 overall, 6-7 PAC, 6-4 Frontier (PJP is moving to the Liberty Division in 24-25); won District 1-4A championship, lost to Overbrook in OT in PIAA first round Key contributors: Jake Robinson, Sr. F; Ayden Wise, Jr. PG; Jason Green, Jr. G; Bradey Bass, Sr.; Zahaid Edwards-Boone, Jr.; Jack Kessler, Jr.; CJ Hestick, Jr. Outlook: Pope John Paul II is entering the 2024-25 season with a David versus Goliath mentality. After winning a District 1-4A championship and losing in overtime in the opening round of the state playoffs, the Golden Panthers have earned the right to play with the big boys as they get set to join the Liberty Division. Second-year head coach Earl Wise is excited for the opportunity, even if his son, junior Ayden (6.7 PPG), is one of just two returning starters. Gone is leading scorer Dom DeMito, as are Caleb Zavertnik and Braden Reed. That said, Earl Wise still has plenty of returning talent to work with — senior Jason Green (8.2 PPG) made 42 3-pointers last season, which was tied for sixth in the PAC. Elsewhere, senior forward Jake Robinson is an inside-outside threat who Wise referred to as PJP’s “glue guy.” Others with experience include senior forward Denny Owens, the other returning starter, and juniors CJ Hestick and Jack Kessler. Transfers Zahaid Edwards-Boone (Upper Merion) and Damian Savior (Renaissance Academy) should also factor into the rotation. While PJP is a smaller school than Methacton, Spring-Ford or Perk Valley, the team’s speed, defensive effort and shooting prowess will make it dangerous against any opponent. “The guys have been meshing in the offseason,” Earl Wise said. “We look at moving divisions as a great opportunity to go into environments where it’s hard to play and improve. Our league play will be like a postseason game every night, which is good. On any given night in high school basketball, any one team can beat another, and you’re not going to be able to duplicate in practice the pace we play at. “One of our strengths will be physical toughness. Our bodies are prepared. We’re going to shoot the ball really well at all three levels. We missed the PAC playoffs last year, so a successful season for us would be getting into the dance. Once you get in, anything can happen.” PJP is off to a 2-0 start, knocking off both CB West (64-41) and CB South (68-63). Spring-Ford Head coach: Joe Dempsey, fourth season Last year’s record: 23-8 overall, 12-1 PAC, 9-1 Liberty; PAC runner-up, finished ninth in District 1-6A playoffs, lost to Archbishop Wood in PIAA quarterfinals Key contributors: Jacob Nguyen, Sr. G/F; Tommy Kelly, Sr. F/C; Jordan Marsilio, Sr. G; Luke Pufko, Sr. G; Blake Turner, Jr. G/F; Syaire Barnes, Jr. G Outlook: Spring-Ford has won 51 games over the past two seasons, playing for a district title in 2023 and making deep state runs in both 2023 (semifinals) and 2024 (quarterfinals). While the Rams certainly lost a lot of talent from last year’s group, they also have two experienced seniors who can score and fourth-year head coach Joe Dempsey said his staff believes this Spring-Ford team is the deepest iteration they’ve had. Gone is EJ Campbell, last year’s Mercury Boys Basketball Player of the Year who developed into a two-way star while averaging almost 15 points per game. Key reserve Jake Dellangelo also graduated, senior Matt Zollers broke his ankle playing football in the fall, and Oben Mokonchu and Lymir Green transferred to Friends’ Central and Cardinal O’Hara, respectively. Luckily for Dempsey, he does return senior G/F Jacob Nguyen, the team’s leading scorer at 15.0 per game who made a league-best 64 triples last season. Nguyen has added to his game every season at Spring-Ford, and he enters his final run as perhaps the PAC’s best player. Joining him is fellow senior Tommy Kelly, a 6-5 do-it-all player who averaged 10 PPG in 23-24. Senior Jordan Marsilio was a spark plug off the bench a season ago, while senior Luke Pufko and junior Blake Turner both played varsity minutes off the bench. Junior guard Syaire Barnes has drawn rave reviews since the summer and Dempsey believes he can fill some of the scoring void. “The challenge is getting guys to remember the hard work, intensity, energy, process and practice habits we put in,” Dempsey said. “Nothing happens by accident, and they seem to be coachable thus far. I’m confident the leadership and culture we have will help continue to make some noise in our league. If we focus on our league, the rest will take care of itself. “My biggest question is what are we going to be defensively? We’ve been really good defensively the last couple of years, and we have to get guys to realize they have to play both ends of the court all the time on every possession. We’ve got to figure out who’s willing to commit to and embrace that.” FRONTIER DIVISION Owen J. Roberts Head coach: Ben Condello, fourth season Last year’s record: 8-14 overall, 2-11 PAC, 1-9 Liberty (OJR is moving to the Frontier Division in 24-25) Key contributors: Elijah Cline, Sr.; Danny Walker, Jr.; Ryan Holmburg, Sr.; Dazh’mair Rose, Jr.; Ryan Simpson, Fr. Outlook: The Wildcats’ eight wins last season were the most for the program since the 2017-18 season, and fourth-year head coach Ben Condello seeks to keep the good vibes rolling as OJR flips divisions to the Frontier. The team will have to figure out how to replace three starters, most importantly Luke Fryer, a first team all-league and all-area player who was the PAC’s leading scorer at 23.2 PPG. Fryer is the third-leading scorer in program history and one of six Wildcats to reach 1,000 career points. OJR also graduated Colin King and his 9.0 PPG but returns its second (Cline, 10.1 PPG) and fourth-leading (Walker, 7.0 PPG) scorers. Cline can throw it down at the rim, while Walker converted 35 3-pointers in 2023-24. Condello is also excited about the development of Holmburg, Rose and Simpson, with the latter proving early on to be a freshman who plays with a poise beyond his years. “The guys we have back are hungry for the opportunity,” Condello said. “They want to be one of the top 24 teams in District 1-6A and crack double-digit wins. We lost four games where we were tied or led in the fourth quarter; if we win two of those, we’re in the playoffs for just the second time in 15 years. The big thing we talk about is our culture and making sure we’re working together and doing things the right way. “If we come in every day with purpose, focus and effort, then the results will take care of themselves. We’ll continue to improve and think we have a great chance at districts.” OJR is off to a 1-1 start to its season, defeating MaST Charter and losing to Upper Moreland over Thanksgiving weekend. Phoenixville Head coach: Eric Burnett, 11th season Last year’s record: 20-8 overall, 10-3 PAC, 9-1 Frontier; won PAC championship, finished third in District 1-5A, lost to Whitehall in PIAA first round Key contributors: Deacon Baratta, Sr. F; Brady O’Donnell, Sr. G; Jehoash Leo, Sr; Stephen Yurich, Jr.; Jacoby Smith, So.; Keron Booth Jr., So. Outlook: Last year was a banner season for the Phoenixville program. The Phantoms won their first PAC title since 2007, defeating Spring-Ford in a last-second thriller, before proceeding to finish third in District 1-5A and cracking the state playoffs, where they lost to Whitehall in round one. Last year’s team lost a lot of talent, namely forward and leading scorer and rebounder Max Lebisky (16.7 PPG), now playing at the University of Scranton. Second team all-league selection Christian Cervino (10.8 PPG) also graduated, while emerging star and second-leading scorer Dawson Brown (12.7 PPG) decided to transfer to Episcopal Academy. Luckily for 11th-year head coach Eric Burnett, the Phantoms do bring back first team all-league forward Deacon Baratta, a 6-7 inside-outside threat who made 38 3-pointers last season. Baratta added muscle in the offseason to replace some of the rebounding and blocked shots down low left by Lebisky while also challenging himself to be a more vocal leader. Senior guard Brady O’Donnell is the other top returning vet who came off the bench as a junior and registered the game-winning assist in the PAC title game on Lebisky’s game-winning layup. Sophomore Keron Booth Jr. played a good amount of minutes as a freshman and will be Phoenixville’s primary ballhandler. Other raw but talented players who should factor into the rotation include senior Jehoash Leo, junior Stephen Yurick and sophomore Jacoby Smith. “Last year’s group was really unique,” Burnett said. “I think our mentality has to continue to hunt for our own legacy and have that hunter’s mentality instead of just trying to defend a championship. Every team wants to win the PAC and make districts and states, but we have to stay hungry and we have a group of guys who can do that. “We’re very deep, which is a good problem to have. Last year we had size across the board, and now it’s kind of the opposite: we have one 6-7 guy in Deacon and a bunch of scrappy guards and skilled playmakers. We want to play fast, up-tempo basketball that’s also under control. Situational basketball has to be sharp, and this team has a lot of really good kids who love the game. I couldn’t be more excited for these new and familiar faces to step into the spotlight.” Pottsgrove Head coach: Scott Palladino, fourth season Last year’s record: 11-11 overall, 4-9 PAC, 3-7 Frontier Key contributors: Kamal Curry, Sr. F/C; Julius Marshall, Sr. G/F; Deymein Doctor, Jr. G/F; Bryce Phillips, Jr. F; Greg Rosenberger, Jr. G Outlook: Pottsgrove has improved incrementally in each of head coach Scott Palladino’s first three seasons, going from six wins to seven to 11 last year. Now, with three multi-year starters back in the fold, the Falcons have their sights set on PAC and district playoff berths, the latter of which they missed by one game last season. Leading scorer Gabe Rinda (10.5 PPG) graduated, but three-year starters Deymein Doctor (9.2 PPG) and Julius Marshall (7.1 PPG) and two-year starter Kamal Curry (6.9 PPG) all return, while Bryce Phillips and Greg Rosenberger are a pair of juniors who have been in the program since they were freshmen. “We’ve had a lot of success in our non-league games and have struggled in the league for different reasons,” Palladino said. “There’s no excuses this year. Hopefully we’ve learned from our mistakes and are ready to hit the ground running. Our goal is to get into the PAC final six, and we feel if we come to play every night then we can obtain that. As a whole, the team has grown a lot. “We’ll be at our best getting up and down the floor, pressuring teams on defense and getting out and running in transition. We have some shooters who can also slow you down in the halfcourt offense. The buy-in is there, and they want to play in the postseason. They had a taste of winning and now want to keep building on what they attained last year. I think we can surprise some people this year.” The Falcons won their season opener, a 59-55 decision over Antietam. Pottstown Head coach: Ken Ivory, fourth season Last year’s record: 19-9 overall, 10-3 PAC, 8-2 Frontier; finished sixth in District 1-5A, lost to Imhotep Charter in PIAA first round Key contributors: Syncere Whitehurst, Jr. G; Elias Butler, Jr. F; Jahmir Jackson, Sr.; Kam Robinson Outlook: Last year went about as well as possible for Pottstown. The Trojans won 19 games, won a game in the PAC playoffs, finished sixth in District 1-5A and made it back to the state tournament for the first time since 2007. This year, meanwhile, will be more about figuring out how to maintain the expectation of being a playoff team without the services of all five starters from last season. Twin brothers Abdul Jackson (18.2 PPG) and Sadeeq Jackson (16.8 PPG) were pure scorers, while Jurrell Young (14.9 PPG, 48 3-pointers), Dillon Mayes (6.7 PPG) and Nahzier Booker (now playing football at Bloomsburg) all brought something to the table. Jahmir Jackson, the younger brother of Abdul and Sadeeq, averaged 8.1 PPG in eight games a season ago, while Syncere Whitehurst, Elias Butler and Kam Robinson are additional holdovers who saw some time on the court. Head coach Ken Ivory said there are four or five players from the Pottstown football team who all possess different skill sets set to join the program as well. Nearly everything will be new; all, that is, except the renewed culture of success that Ivory has reinstalled after many down seasons. “It’s important for us to have another successful season for Pottstown basketball,” Ivory said. “I know last year was awesome, but how we follow that up is also important to our program leading down the road. We have 9-10 guys who can play, and it’s a good challenge for us as coaches to see where they fit in and how they can impact the game. “Right now our strength is guarding the ball and being active defensively. We won’t be a lights out shooting team as we have the past two seasons, but our defense can lead to offense. If we’re making shots on the outside, we’ll be really hard to beat. Now, it’s all about these guys finding their own way. It’s going to take a group effort, and I’m anxious to see how it unfolds. We have so much basketball talent in our town, it’s just a matter finding and unlocking it.” Upper Merion Head coach: Matt Rafferty, first season Last year’s record: 8-12 overall, 5-8 PAC, 4-6 Frontier Key contributors: David Peck, Sr.; Danny Hill, Sr.; Chase O’Donnell, Sr.; Isaiah Robinson, Jr.; Kylee Hill, Jr.; Eric Green, So. Outlook: Like many of its other PAC Frontier rivals, Upper Merion graduated a glut of seniors from last year’s team, including its top three leading scorers in Allen Cole, Nick Smiley and Josh Nguyen. First-year head coach Matt Rafferty says he expects the senior trio of David Peck, Danny Hill and Chase O’Donnell to lead a very young group low on varsity experience. Peck has the most varsity experience, while Danny Hill is a lightning-quick point guard who plays strong defense and O’Donnell is the team’s “Mr. Everything” in terms of doing all of the dirty, physical work. Players lighter on experience who Rafferty sees potential in include juniors Isaiah Robinson and Kylee Hill and sophomore Eric Green, all of whom bring enviable athleticism and raw talent to the table. Rafferty said this team will sink or swim based on its defensive effort and will not try to be something it’s not, i.e. a team that beats you by scoring in the 70s and 80s. “We understand this season may come with ups and downs, but as long as they buy in then we’ll be in every game,” Rafferty said. “If we buy in early then we can be a pretty decent defensive team. We want to slow down the pace, run when we can and play a style of hard-nosed defense. We have a good opportunity to turn some heads, but it’s going to take hard work.” Upper Perkiomen Head coach: John Brittain, first season Last year’s record: 2-20 overall, 0-13 PAC, 0-10 Frontier Key contributors: Darius Reid, So.; Vincent Gallasi, Sr.; Connor Gehman, Sr.; Robert Rice, Sr.; Tucker Ruch, Jr.; Jordin Dice, Jr.; Grayson Sabo, So.; Jack Rieg, So. Outlook: For first-year head coach John Brittain, the only way to go is up this season for Upper Perkiomen. The Indians graduated eight seniors from last year’s squad, so the 2024-25 campaign represents a fresh start for almost everybody involved. Brittain, also the school’s boys golf coach, has an early focus on fixing the basketball program’s processes and building from the community’s feeder systems on up. “I am excited and humbled to lead our basketball program at Upper Perkiomen,” Brittain said. “Wins have been few and far between over the past five seasons. My staff and I will tackle this challenge with an abundance of energy and enthusiasm. We are fortunate to have a great group of kids who work hard, play together and are committed to being the foundation of great things to come in the future.”

Ousted Syrian leader Assad flees to Moscow after fall of Damascus, Russian state media say DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Russia media say ousted Syrian leader Bashar Assad has fled to Moscow and received asylum from his longtime ally. The reports came hours after a stunning rebel advance swept into Damascus to cheers and ended the Assad family’s 50 years of iron rule. Thousands of Syrians poured into streets echoing with celebratory gunfire, joyful after a stifling, nearly 14-year civil war. But the swiftly moving events raised questions about the future of the country and the wider region. The rebels face the daunting task of healing bitter divisions in a country still split among armed factions. One rebel commander said “we will not deal with people the way the Assad family did." Analysis: Collapse of Syria's Assad is a blow to Iran's 'Axis of Resistance' MANAMA, Bahrain (AP) — For Iran’s theocratic government, it keeps getting worse. Its decadeslong strategy of building an “Axis of Resistance” supporting militant groups and proxies around the region is falling apart. Hamas has been batttered by Israel's campaign in Gaza. In Lebanon, Israeli bombardment has crippled Iran’s most powerful ally, Hezbollah, even as Israel has launched successful airstrikes openly inside of Iran for the first time. And now Iran’s longtime stalwart ally and client in Syria, President Bashar Assad, is gone. Who is Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the leader of the insurgency that toppled Syria's Assad? BEIRUT (AP) — Abu Mohammed al-Golani, the militant leader who led the stunning insurgency that toppled Syria’s President Bashar Assad, has spent years working to remake his public image and that of his fighters. He renounced longtime ties to al-Qaida and depicts himself as a champion of pluralism and tolerance. The extent of that transformation from jihadi extremist to would-be state builder is now put to the test. The 42-year-old al-Golani is labeled a terrorist by the United States. He has not appeared publicly since Damascus fell early Sunday. But he and his insurgent force, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, stand to be a major player in whatever comes next. Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise US prices and won't rule out revenge prosecutions WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump says he can’t guarantee his promised tariffs on key U.S. foreign trade partners won’t raise prices for American consumers. And he's suggesting once more that some political rivals and federal officials who pursued legal cases against him should be imprisoned. The president-elect made the comments in a wide-ranging interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday. He also touched on monetary policy, immigration, abortion and health care, and U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Israel and elsewhere. Trump often mixed declarative statements with caveats, at one point cautioning “things do change.” The hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO's elusive killer yields new evidence, but few answers NEW YORK (AP) — Police don’t know who he is, where he is, or why he did it. As the frustrating search for UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson’s killer got underway for a fifth day Sunday, investigators reckoned with a tantalizing contradiction: They have troves of evidence, but the shooter remains an enigma. One conclusion they are confident of, however: It was a targeted attack, not a random one. On Sunday morning, police declined to comment on the contents of a backpack found in Central Park that they believe was carried by the killer. Thompson was shot and killed Wednesday outside of a hotel in Manhattan. Trump calls for immediate ceasefire in Ukraine and says a US withdrawal from NATO is possible WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump is pushing Russian leader Vladimir Putin to act to reach an immediate ceasefire with Ukraine. Trump describes it as part of his active efforts as president-elect to end the war despite being weeks from taking office. Trump also said he would be open to reducing military aid to Ukraine and pulling the United States out of NATO. Those are two threats that have alarmed Ukraine, NATO allies and many in the U.S. national security community. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says any deal would have to pave the way to a lasting peace. The Kremlin's spokesman says Moscow is open to talks with Ukraine. Gaza health officials say latest Israeli airstrikes kill at least 14 including children DEIR AL BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Palestinian health officials say Israeli airstrikes in central Gaza have killed at least 14 people including children, while the bombing of a hospital in northern Gaza has wounded a half-dozen patients. Israel’s military continues its latest offensive against Hamas militants in northern Gaza, whose remaining Palestinians have been almost completely cut off from the rest of the territory amid a growing humanitarian crisis. One airstrike flattened a residential building in the urban Bureij refugee camp Sunday afternoon. That's according to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in the nearby city of Deir al-Balah, where the casualties were taken. South Korea's democracy held after a 6-hour power play. What does it say for democracies elsewhere? SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — A short-lived martial law decree by South Korea's leader last week raised worries about budding authoritarianism around the world. In the end, though, democracy prevailed. President Yoon Suk Yeol announced that he was declaring martial law and giving his government sweeping powers to crack down on protesters, ban political parties and control the media. Members of the military blocked lawmakers from using the legislature's constitutional power to cancel the power grab. But the National Assembly within hours unanimously voted to do so. Trump's return may be a boon for Netanyahu, but challenges abound in a changed Middle East TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is jubilant about President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House. Trump's first term policies skewed heavily in favor of Israel, and he has picked stalwart Israel supporters for key positions in his administration. But much has transpired since Trump left office in early 2021. The turmoil in the Middle East, the lofty ambitions of Netanyahu’s far-right governing coalition and Netanyahu’s own personal relationship with the president-elect could dampen that enthusiasm and complicate what on the surface looks like a seamless alliance. College Football Playoff's first 12-team bracket is set with Oregon No. 1 and SMU in, Alabama out SMU captured the last open spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, bumping Alabama to land in a bracket that placed undefeated Oregon at No. 1. The selection committee preferred the Mustangs, losers of a heartbreaker in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, who had a far less difficult schedule than Alabama of the SEC but one fewer loss. The inaugural 12-team bracket marks a new era for college football, though the Alabama-SMU debate made clear there is no perfect formula. The tournament starts Dec. 20-21 with four first-round games. It concludes Jan. 20 with the national title game in Atlanta.South Korean TV brands LG Electronics and Samsung along with Japanese TV brand Sony have dominated the Australian TV market for decades, now that is changing and quickly despite the TV market being in decline in Australia with LG falling behind both TCL, Hisense and Samsung globally. While Historically, Samsung, Sony and LG have dominated the premium TV market, its Chinese brands Hisense and TCL who are rapidly gaining ground, according to new market data with both Chinese brands stripping big chunks of share from LG and Samsung. Samsung’s share of premium TV shipments dropped significantly from 43% in Q3 2023 to 30% in Q3 2024, according to Counterpoint Research. LG’s share also declined, from 20% to 16% during the same period. Hisense who recently released a $24K 110-inch premium TV in Australia, saw their market share surge from 14% in 2023 to 24% in 2024. TCL the world’s biggest manufacturer of TV’s also gained share rising from 11% in 2023 to 24% in Q3 2024. “Chinese companies are already leading the market in standard LCD, and now they are focusing on the premium TV group that was dominated by Korean and Japanese companies. said Lee Je-hyeok, analyst at Counterpoint Research. “They are improving profits by adjusting their product portfolios and expanding their presence in all regions by enhancing their brand image,” he added. Counterpoint defines premium TVs as OLED, QD-OLED, miniLED LCD, micro-LED, 8K LCD and ‘QD-LCD’, the latter encompassing edge-lit LCD TVs such as Q60, Q70, and Samsung’s Frame TV. Counterpoint claims that Samsung’s Frame should not qualify as a ‘Premium TV. ‘Without the frame and their Q60 and Q70 TV’s, Samsung’s premium, market share would be notably lower, the research group claims. Helping Hisense and TCL to grow share is the 102% year-over-year increase in miniLED LCD TV sales. It was also revealed that TCL has surpassed Samsung in the market for ‘super large TVs’ over 80 inches, according to Omdia Research. LG’s share primarily reflects its OLED TVs, as it does not have significant miniLED LCD sales. One bright point is that Samsung is growing its share in OLED with QD-OLED TVs. With CES looming Hisense and TCL are both set to make major TV announcements at CES 2025. Both Companies claim that they aim to maintain momentum in 2025 as consumers increasingly gravitate towards XXL TVs, a segment still dominated by LCD technology. Beyond premium TVs, the global TV market grew 11% year-over-year in Q3 2024.Major Drilling Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results, Building on Robust Net Cash PositionProfound Medical Announces Proposed Public Offering of Common Shares

EMMITSBURG, Md. (AP) — Jedy Cordilia's 21 points helped Mount St. Mary's defeat Fairfield 101-94 on Sunday. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * EMMITSBURG, Md. (AP) — Jedy Cordilia's 21 points helped Mount St. Mary's defeat Fairfield 101-94 on Sunday. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? EMMITSBURG, Md. (AP) — Jedy Cordilia’s 21 points helped Mount St. Mary’s defeat Fairfield 101-94 on Sunday. Cordilia also had seven rebounds for the Mountaineers (6-3, 1-1 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference). Dola Adebayo scored 15 points while shooting 5 of 7 from the field and 4 for 4 from the free-throw line and added nine rebounds, five assists, and four blocks. Dallas Hobbs shot 4 of 9 from the field, including 2 for 4 from 3-point range, and went 4 for 4 from the foul line to finish with 14 points. Prophet Johnson led the Stags (5-5, 1-1) in scoring, finishing with 22 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and two steals. Braden Sparks added 16 points and four assists for Fairfield. Jamie Bergens had 15 points and four assists. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. AdvertisementMcFly singer and guitarist Danny Jones has been named winner of I’m A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! 2024 and king of the jungle. TV personality Coleen Rooney came in second place, while Rev Richard Coles – who was part of pop duo The Communards – placed third. During Sunday’s final Jones, 38, joined hosts Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly in the studio and told them it felt “amazing” and “surreal” to win. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Earlier in the episode, the campmates reflected on what it meant to them to be in the final. Coles said: “I can’t believe I’m one of the final three. I never thought I would make it this far.” Jones said: “It feels amazing, I didn’t expect this at all.” Rooney reflected in the Bush Telegraph and said: “Knowing that I have made it to the final makes me proud. I’m a proud mum, I’m a proud wife, I’m a proud daughter.” She added: “It’s very rare that I’m proud of myself, so it means a lot. It’s very rare that I put myself first, so yeah these are happy tears.” We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. During Sunday’s episode, the finalists faced fish guts, spiders and cockroaches as they embarked on the last Bushtucker trial, The Towers Of Terror. In the first half of the challenge, the campmates were joined by snakes as they lay down inside separate levels of a wooden tower where they had to manoeuvre stars, passing them down to one another until they reached the lowest level of the tower. The campmates managed to collect all six stars and moved onto the second half of the trial, where they were tasked with untying a variety of knots while in the company of some critters. The trio were able to collect all of the remaining stars, meaning they won a reward of a three-course meal and drink. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Jones, had a cold glass of beer, a starter of mozzarella sticks with sweet chilli sauce, a buttermilk chicken burger and chips for his main course, and fresh cream profiteroles with warm Nutella sauce for dessert. Rooney, 38, had a glass of French pale Provence rose, a bruschetta starter, spaghetti bolognese with flaky parmesan cheese and garlic bread for her main course and fresh cream profiteroles with warm Nutella sauce for dessert. Coles, 62, had a prawn cocktail starter, cottage pie and gravy for his main course, fruit cake for dessert, and Chablis for his drink.CLEVELAND, Ohio — Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski took questions from reporters on Tuesday regarding the 41-32 loss to the Broncos , injury updates, and more. Below is the transcript as provided by the Browns media relations department: More Cleveland Browns coverage How Myles Garrett, Denzel Ward and the rest of the Browns defense graded vs. the Broncos How Jameis Winston, Jerry Jeudy and the rest of the Browns offense graded vs. the Broncos What Jameis Winston’s record-setting night means for the 2025 Browns; Darius Garland’s big challenge: Terry’s Talkin’ podcast Week 14 NFL Preview: Find everything you need to know with our Week 14 NFL preview. Opening Statement: “Okay, no real updates guys, from any injury stuff. I’ll let you know if anything changes tomorrow. Obviously, you watch the tape and just like last night, you’re very, very disappointed that you can’t finish that game and come out of there with a win. I thought obviously a lot going on in that game, back and forth throughout the night, but got to find a way to finish. That’s the very disappointing part for me and for the football team. Having said that, short week, AFC North opponent, Pittsburgh Steelers, so we got to get back to work. With that, I’ll take any questions.” After watching the film and having some time, how do you process everything about Jameis’s (Winston) night? “Well, we threw the ball a lot, so there were a lot of opportunities and obviously extremely productive in the past game with a ton of yards. Certainly, he wants to take care of the football in those moments. You’re not going to play perfect at the quarterback position, he knows that, I know that. Ultimately, he wants to do anything in his power to help this team win, and that’s going to be taking care of the ball. But he also had moments there where he was moving that offense and did a nice job.” I mean, the scouting report on him has always been, makes a bunch of plays, but also has a tendency to turn it over. At this stage in his career, can he turn that around and how do you get him to throw fewer interceptions? “I think every game, Scott (Petrak), you go into it wanting to be productive in the pass game while taking care of the football. Obviously, Jameis understands that, he knows that, he’s aware of what he needs to do for this football team. And it’s always something that you coach. I don’t think you ever stop coaching players, however many games they’ve played in this league. So, he’s a player that I believe can get better, and part of that will be taking care of the ball, but don’t want to lose sight of some really good moments from him last night.” JOK (Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah) now has missed the required four games. Can you give us a better update on his status? “I don’t really have an update right now, Jeff (Schudel). When I have one, I’ll make sure I get that to you guys.” Are you ruling him out already then for that Pittsburgh game? “Yeah, I’d rule him out for this game, but I’m not going to go much further past that.” You guys ran about 23 times only last night. Was that just the running game just wasn’t there or was it just that Jameis was throwing the ball so well? “I think a combination of those two things, Jeff (Schudel). We want to run the ball better; we want to be more efficient in our run game. We were also making a lot of yards in the pass game. I thought the protection, three sacks for the amount of times we dropped back, one was a coverage sack, one was on a keeper. So, the protection was outstanding, we’re making yards, but we absolutely want to be more efficient in the run game.” You mentioned some of the things that Jameis was saying, he knows he can better and knows he needs to take care of the ball. Some of the comments after the game were just really taking ownership. How much value does that hold within you and really the staff, that kind of level of accountability that he’s been taking? “You know, Cam (Justice), I think all of our guys are accountable to their football team, to each other. I’m accountable to the team. I think it all goes together, and we win as a team, we lose as a team. So, I know it’s easy to single out one person, but that’s not how we operate. We’re in this together.” Speaking of singling out one person, we talk about Jerry Jeudy’s game last night a lot, but Elijah Moore had a pretty big game as well. Did that game show you anything new about how maybe you guys can use him or open him up in the offense as well? “I don’t think anything new. I think Elijah has a very unique skill set where he can win inside and outside. I think we’ve certainly put him in position to go win and he’s done that. Like a lot of things, there’s increase in targets for a bunch of guys, Ced (Cedric Tillman) was out in this game, so that also makes some targets go to other guys as well.” Off Scott’s (Petrak) question, as far as the interceptions go, when you’re watching the film, are those coming as a result of a bad decision, some over aggressiveness, or are you seeing the defense is just jumping in front and making some plays? “It’s something we talk about in the quarterback room that not all interceptions are created equal. And think of a tip ball, that’s way different than throwing it right to the defense. So, I think that we had some miscommunication on the first one. The second one, I think just was not a great throw by Jameis. He wanted that ball more outside. And like I talked about before, he’s not going to be perfect, you’re going to miss throws. That’s part of playing this position. You need to learn from each one of those. So as a quarterback, learning from each one of these reps is so important, but I don’t want our quarterbacks to play a style where they’re so careful and they’re not, they’re ultra conservative, they’re not going to throw the ball down the field. That’s just not a recipe for moving the ball either. So, he’ll continue to learn from these and learn from each one of these and try to get better.” I wanted to ask you about Jed (Jedrick Wills Jr.) because he’s now missed three straight, four of five. What are his prospects this week and then if it’s not looking so good, why not just put him on injured reserve so he can take the time to get that knee right? “Yeah, we’re trying to see what this week will hold. He’s trying very hard to make it back and I’ll have more updates as we get into the work week tomorrow.” Hey, Coach, obviously Jerry put up the big numbers yesterday and when you guys traded for him, you immediately extended him and almost kind of bet on him being this type of player. Like, is this the guy that when you guys made that trade, brought him in here that you kind of envisioned seeing? He’s leading the league in receiving since week eight. He obviously is now eighth overall, or fifth overall in receiving for the season. So, is this the guy that you kind of pictured him being? “Certainly, identified RAC (run after the catch) as something that Jerry’s really strong at. That’s the area of his game where he can touch the ball and he can go. He’s really good with the ball in his hand. So, I think that’s something that we saw with him coming out of college, saw with him and his career in Denver and really projected to show up with us, and it has. I would tell you Jerry’s a selfless player. I know he had a great night last night. He’d give all that up for a win and that’s all that he’s about. He’s a guy that we’ll continue to lean on throughout the season.” Obviously, you guys are 2-1 against your division opponents right now. In a season that the bigger goals have kind of dissipated here a little bit in terms of playoffs and all that. How much is trying to finish with a winning record against those tough opponents you guys play in the north something that’s kind of on your guys radar and something that you’re talking about? “We know how important these games are. It’s Pittsburgh, it’s AFC North football. It’s a big game for us.” Going off of that, because you guys just recently played Pittsburgh, how helpful is that in this preparation with it being a little bit of a shorter week in the sense and obviously knowing that weather played a factor in that Thursday night game, but how can that help you in preparation for this week? “I think both teams have the same advantage, if you will, having played each other so recently with one game in between. For the coaches, obviously there’s less tape to break down and pull apart and study and those type of things. They will be different than how we played them both in terms of their players. There will be guys back from injury, likewise with us. So, it will be different. It always is, even when you have these games as close together, there’s always some small, sometimes big adjustments that both teams will make.” On the 93-yard touchdown pass to Marvin Mims, there were multiple players that noted that it was kind of that inverted Tampa-2. I’ve noticed you guys have played that a lot in that specific down and distance and part of the field. That’s all to say, when you look at the defense this season, have you guys maybe evolved enough, added enough wrinkles, pivoted enough where you’re not becoming too predictable to opposing offenses? “Obviously that’s something that you always look at from all sides of the ball, make sure that you’re mixing up your calls at all times. So, we’ll learn from that. There are things that we can better on that play. But you do have to also recognize they made a good play. It was a good throw, so good play by them.” At the beginning of the year the offense struggled to score points and now it seems like the offense is putting up some points and the defense has slid. Where they were one last year, I think they’re 24th now. I know stats aren’t everything, but the points allowed, even with the two pick-sixes, 27 points is a lot of points. Are there things why it seems like the defense is progressing in the wrong direction? “I think there’s certainly moments that we want back defensively and then there’s...We’re playing at an efficient clip for a bunch of the game. Those big plays are really the ones that hurt you the most. So certainly, that the 90-yard or whatever it was on third down, those are tough plays to give up situationally. So, we’ll just focus on limiting those big plays and make sure that we’re playing sound football.” Hey, Kevin, Nick (Chubb), was the plan to only use him as much as you did? I think it was 29 snaps and nine carries or what was going on there? “I think every one of these games calls for a different plan, if you will. And sometimes you go into it thinking it’s going to be one type of game and it changes or one player is maybe feeling it a little bit different than the other guy. I think Duce (Staley) does a great job with those guys. Going into this game, wanted to get Jerome (Ford) good work, but we’re very happy with that room in total. We trust really all those guys in there. And there will be some moments where you lean into Nick for certain schemes and certain moments and there’ll be times when you lean into Jerome. I think it’s really based on a bunch of different factors.” And I don’t know if we’ve asked you about Hard Knocks, which airs for the first time tonight. Is that any kind of distraction for you guys? “No. It really isn’t and it’s all four teams in the division, so we’re all sharing it.” I also wanted to ask about the pass rush, no sacks, a quiet night for Myles (Garrett). When you reviewed the film, what kind of stood out maybe in terms of the protection and what they were doing, kind of stymie the pass rush? “Certainly, we want to rush the passer, want to apply pressure to the passer. They had a nice protection plan throughout the game, got the ball out, chipped throughout the night. So, we know that’s kind of the plan versus us. We will find ways to make sure we pressure the passer.” Football Insider newsletter free trial: Take a minute and sign up for a free trial of our Football Insider newsletter, featuring exclusive content from cleveland.com's Browns reporters.

AVITA Medical Announces FDA Approval of RECELL GO mini, Optimizing Treatment for Smaller WoundsSeattle (7-5) at Arizona (6-6) Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EST, CBS

ORLANDO, Fla. , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Magnifica, a global high-luxury lifestyle brand under CIG Companies, is set to redefine elevated living experiences with its highly anticipated launch event on December 9th, 2024 , at the Dr. Phillips Performing Arts Center in Orlando , FL. Under the visionary leadership of Charles D. Carey , CEO and Co-Founder, Magnifica celebrates an expansive vision of luxury that includes its signature developments—Magnifica Residences and Magnifica Resorts, both slated for launch in 2026—and its bold foray into the luxury aviation sector with Magnifica Air, taking flight in 2027. A Revolutionary Vision for Modern Luxury Magnifica embodies a balanced approach to luxury, blending timeless design with sustainable innovation. Guided by CIG Companies' commitment to impactful investments in clean energy and local conservation, Magnifica represents the pinnacle of elevated living. From elegant residences to immersive resort experiences, every Magnifica offering reflects an unwavering dedication to quality, sustainability, and community enrichment. Propelling this vision further is Magnifica Air, poised to disrupt the luxury aviation space with its trailblazing approach to personalized air travel. With the filing for FAA certification, Magnifica Air is ready to redefine the customer journey from the ground up. The certification process, an intensive evaluation involving design reviews, safety tests, and operational validations, underscores Magnifica Air's commitment to the highest standards of safety and excellence. Magnifica Air: Redefining the Skies Designed to bridge the exclusivity of private aviation with the accessibility of premium commercial travel, Magnifica Air offers a truly bespoke experience. Every detail has been designed to elevate the passenger journey, from its spacious, elegantly designed cabins to cutting-edge technology that ensures frictionless, tailored service. "Magnifica Air isn't just about getting from one place to another—it's about creating an unforgettable experience where luxury meets deeply personalized service," says Wade Black , CEO and Co-Founder of Magnifica Air "Our recent FAA certification filing reflects our dedication to operational excellence, innovation, and a customer-centric philosophy that ensures each traveler feels known and valued." An Evening of Elegance and Vision The December 9th launch event will be a celebration of culture, innovation, and high luxury. Guests will be treated to a captivating performance by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside other notable musicians and artists, a showcase of Magnifica's master plan, and exclusive previews of upcoming projects, including Magnifica Residences and Resorts. A highlight of the evening will be an exclusive preview of Magnifica Air, offering a glimpse into the unparalleled travel experiences that await. The evening will culminate in a private afterparty at the Magnifica Residence Showroom, where guests will experience the artistry and intentionality behind Magnifica's iconic designs. From curated cuisine to thoughtful architectural details, every element will reflect the brand's ethos of timeless luxury. The Magnifica Experience: A Lifestyle Redefined From its meticulously crafted homes to transformative travel experiences, Magnifica is more than a brand—it is a promise to deliver elevated living. With Magnifica Air leading the charge into the future of luxury aviation, the Magnifica portfolio is a testament to the art of creating meaningful, unforgettable experiences. For media inquiries and event attendance requests, please contact: Magnifica Media Relations info@magnifica.com About Magnifica Magnifica, a subsidiary of CIG Companies, is dedicated to redefining luxury living through exceptional design, sustainable practices, and transformative experiences. The Magnifica portfolio includes Magnifica Residences, Magnifica Resorts, and Magnifica Air, each a testament to the brand's commitment to creating spaces and journeys that inspire, connect, and endure. About CIG Companies CIG Companies is a leader in high-value sustainable investments across diverse sectors, including real estate, clean energy, and infrastructure. With a focus on innovation and community impact, CIG Companies shapes projects that leave a lasting legacy View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/magnifica-unveils-the-future-of-luxury-living-at-december-9th-launch-event-orlando-fl--december-2024-302324357.html SOURCE Magnifica, LLCHusband’s excessive manners leave wife feeling left behind

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A designated disability minister will be appointed to each Government department to “champion disability inclusion and accessibility”, the Government has announced. Work and pensions minister Sir Stephen Timms said the move aims to drive “real improvements” for disabled people, whom the ministers will be encouraged to engage with on a regular basis. He told the Commons: “I am very pleased to be able to announce today the appointment of new lead ministers for disability in each Government department, they will represent the interests of disabled people, champion disability inclusion and accessibility within their departments. “I’m going to chair regular meetings with them and will encourage them to engage directly with disabled people and their representative organisations, as they take forward their departmental priorities. “And I look forward to this new group of lead ministers for disability together driving real improvements across Government for disabled people.” This came during an adjournment debate on International Day of Persons with Disabilities, where Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling raised concerns about “floating bus stops”, which have a cycle lane between the stop and the pavement. Intervening, the MP for Torbay, who is registered blind, said: “The Government needs to ban floating bus stops.” Sir Stephen said: “I do think this issue about floating bus stops is an important issue which we need to work across Government to reflect on.” Labour MP Debbie Abrahams, who led the debate, had earlier criticised the lack of accessibility for disabled people on trains. The Oldham East and Saddleworth MP said: “Our train network does not have level access, and we heard Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson from the other place make this plea back in the summer, absolutely outrageous what she was put through. “But I was absolutely shocked to find, when I had a presentation of the TransPennine route upgrade, that the rolling stock yet to be commissioned is not going to provide that level access. “It’s absolute nonsense, it’s not even in the design of that procurement, so we must do better than this.” We do not moderate comments, but we expect readers to adhere to certain rules in the interests of open and accountable debate.

(Bloomberg) -- Treasury yields rose on Monday as traders continue to see a slower pace of interest rate reductions by the Federal Reserve next year and the potential worsening of country’s fiscal backdrop under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration. The rise in longer-term Treasury yields outstripped that of shorter maturities, adding to the yield-curve steepening momentum of recent weeks. The gap between 10-year yields and those that mature in two years is hovering at about 25 basis points, up from nearly zero at the start of the month. Two-year yields were at one point 51 basis points above those of 10-year notes earlier this year in late June, in a so-called inverted yield curve pattern. The moves Monday built on a rise in yields last week following US central bank officials latest quarterly projections — dubbed the dot plot — in which they halved estimates for the total amount of rate reductions next year. The forecasts, according to the median level, also notched higher the outlook for the Fed’s long-run rate, taken in the market as a proxy for the central bank’s neutral policy level. “The long-end has been kind of flexing its muscles, with investors lifting risk-premium they see in the debt,” said Andrew Brenner, head of international fixed income at NatAlliance Securities. “The fiscal situation is one factor behind the rise in long-end risk premium as well as the outlook for more supply. Overall what we are seeing is a normalization of the yield curve.” Interest-rate swaps contracts show that traders are betting on less than the two-quarter point cuts officials signaled in their dot plot. Through the end of 2025, the contracts are pricing in just 0.33 percentage points of rate reductions. There are no Fed officials slated to speak this week. Treasuries remained under selling pressure Monday despite a weaker-than-expected report on US consumer confidence and solid demand at an auction of two-year notes. Confidence unexpectedly sank in December for the first time in three months on concerns over politics and the outlook for tariffs and economy. What Bloomberg Strategists Say ... “In its latest dot plot, the Fed has implicitly outlined a real neutral policy rate of 100 basis points, a rate it has raised successively this year. While the real neutral rate may not be that high, Treasury 10-year yields need to reflect both the skepticism that the Fed policy is on auto pilot and that the real neutral rate may be more elevated than its dot plot estimate.” — Ven Ram, Cross-Assets Strategist, Dubai Click here to read the full report Treasury securities received solid demand at a $69 billion sale of two-year notes on Monday and ahead of the sale of $70 billion in five-year notes on Tuesday and $44 billion in seven-year notes on Thursday. “Despite the suggestion from the dot plot that the Fed may decelerate the pace of easing over the course of 2025, the 2-year versus 10-year yield curve did not re-flatten,” said Chris Ahrens, a strategist at Stifel Nicolaus & Co. “This may be signaling that there is a transition occurring whereby fiscal concerns and general policy uncertainty will lead investors to demand a higher term premium on long-term Treasuries,” he said. Tuesday will be a shortened trading session for both bonds and stocks in the US ahead of Wednesday’s Christmas holiday. Equity markets will shutter on Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. New York time while bond trading will end an hour later. Trading will resume on Thursday when focus turns to economic releases and the weekly jobless claims report. (Updates rates throughout.) More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com ©2024 Bloomberg L.P.AP Business SummaryBrief at 5:27 p.m. ESTNone

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CLEVELAND (AP) — Only the Cleveland Browns. Only a team beset by perpetual problems at quarterback for the better part of two decades can get a record-setting 497-yard, four-touchdown, jaw-dropping, where-did-that-come-from performance on Monday night from Jameis Winston — and still lose. History wrapped in misery. Only the Browns. Winston spoiled a high-level performance in Denver's thin air by throwing a pair of pick-sixes — the second with 1:48 remaining — as the Broncos rode big plays to a 41-32 win over the Browns (3-9), who have to wonder what their disappointing season might look like if Deshaun Watson had been benched before getting hurt. The loss ended any illusions the Browns had of making a late playoff push like they did a year ago. It also clinched the team's 22nd losing season since its expansion rebirth in 1999. In his fifth start this season, Winston provided further evidence that the Browns made a major mistake by not switching QBs long before Watson ruptured his Achilles tendon on Oct. 20 against Cincinnati. Cleveland's offense has come alive behind Winston, who has thrown for over 300 yards three times, something Watson didn't do in 19 starts over his three suspension-shortened, injury-riddled seasons with the Browns. While there were some positives, Winston's turnovers were too costly. "You’re not going to play perfect at the quarterback position. He knows that," coach Kevin Stefanski said Tuesday on a Zoom call. “I know that ultimately he wants to do anything in his power to help this team win and that’s going to be taking care of the ball. But he also had moments there where he was moving that offense and did a nice job.” Winston may not be the long-term answer for the Browns, but he's showing he can at least give them a viable option for 2025 while the club sorts through the tangled Watson situation, which continues to have a stranglehold on the franchise. In all likelihood, and assuming he's fully recovered, Watson will be back next season in some capacity with the Browns, who are still on the hook to pay him $92 million — of his fully guaranteed $230 million contract — over the next two seasons. Releasing Watson would have damaging salary-cap implications, and while that would be a bitter financial pill for owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam to swallow, it could the Browns' safest and easiest exit strategy. And if they needed any proof that such a strategy can work, the Browns only had to look across the field at the Broncos, who got out from under QB Russell Wilson's monster contract by cutting him, taking the financial hit and drafting Bo Nix. After some common early growing pains, Nix has settled in and the rookie has the Broncos in the mix for a postseason berth. It wasn't long ago that the Browns thought their quarterback concerns were behind them. Instead, they lie ahead. Stefanski's decision to hand over the play-calling duties to first-year coordinator Ken Dorsey has been a positive. While the move hasn't led directly to many wins, the Browns have moved the ball much more effectively and scored at least 20 points in three of five games since the switch after not scoring 20 in their first eight. An issue all season, Cleveland's defense was again gashed for long plays and TDs, including a 93-yard scoring pass in the third quarter. The Browns have allowed 48 plays of 20-plus yards and 12 of at least 40 yards. WR Jerry Jeudy. His return to Denver was a personal and professional triumph — except on the scoreboard. Vowing revenge on the Broncos, who traded him to the Browns in March, Jeudy had the best game of his career, catching nine passes for 235 yards and a TD. Since Winston took over as Cleveland's starter, Jeudy leads the league with 614 yards receiving. Jeudy just might be the No. 1 receiver the Browns have needed following Amari Cooper's trade. Jordan Hicks gets an honorable mention after recording 12 tackles. K Dustin Hopkins. He missed a 47-yard field goal to end Cleveland's first drive, setting the tone for a night of missed opportunities. After making 33 of 36 field goal tries in his first season with the Browns, Hopkins is just 16 of 23, with his inaccuracy raising questions why the team signed him to a three-year, $15.9 million contract in July. Stefanski had no updates from the game. ... LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah remains sidelined with a neck injury suffered on Nov. 2. Stefanski ruled him out again for Sunday's game at Pittsburgh. 552 — Yards of total offense for the Browns, just 10 shy of the single-game franchise record set in 1989. A short turnaround before visiting the Steelers (9-3), who will be looking to avenge their 24-19 loss in Cleveland on Nov. 21. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

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MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Sam Darnold tossed aside his stoic demeanor for a moment after realizing he was on the videoboard, aggressively twirling a towel to further stoke the crowd's fire after the Minnesota Vikings had pulled away from Kirk Cousins and the Atlanta Falcons late in the game. “I just felt the buzz. That was pure passion, pure joy, man,” Darnold said. Darnold added yet another highlight to his brilliant first season with the Vikings, passing for 347 yards and five touchdowns, both career highs, in a 42-21 victory over the foundering Falcons on Sunday to stretch their winning streak to six games. “It just felt like it was one of those days to keep the gas pedal down,” said coach Kevin O'Connell, who enjoyed his team's first 40-point game in three seasons on the job. Darnold passed for 250 yards after halftime to help the Vikings (11-2) break a 21-all tie early in the fourth quarter and stay one game behind NFC North-leading Detroit with a final-week matchup looming with the Lions. Jordan Addison had eight catches for 133 yards and three scores and Justin Jefferson racked up seven receptions for 132 yards and two touchdowns after going the past six games without scoring. “This is something that we want to do and we can do every single week,” Jefferson said. Cousins, whose departure in free agency for Atlanta prompted Minnesota to sign Darnold as a bridge to currently injured rookie J.J. McCarthy, threw two more interceptions without a touchdown in this unhappy homecoming following a mixed six-year run with the Vikings. Booed as he took the field, Cousins and the Falcons (6-7) left with a fourth consecutive loss to tumble out of first place in the NFC South and fall one game behind Tampa Bay. “When you’re playing well you usually aren’t as good as people are telling you when they’re patting you on the back, and if you’re in a rut you’re usually not as bad as people kind of leaving you for dead,” Cousins said. “The reality’s usually somewhere in the middle. You just have to keep playing and see where the dust settles in January.” Cousins went 23 for 37 for 344 yards for the Falcons, who crossed midfield on all nine of their possessions and finished with 496 total yards. He overthrew Ray-Ray McCloud III on fourth down in the first quarter, and the Falcons settled for short field goals just before and right after halftime. Their fate was sealed when McCloud fumbled the kickoff at the 32 after the Vikings went 70 yards in six plays for the go-ahead touchdown pass to Addison, who scored again seven plays later. The Falcons handed the Vikings an earlier touchdown when Kentavious Street was called for defensive holding during a field-goal attempt late in the second quarter, giving Darnold a fresh set of downs before a 12-yard laser to Jefferson on a post route on third-and-6. “You just can’t have the self-inflicted wounds and expect to win football games like we had today,” coach Raheem Morris said. Bijan Robinson had 22 carries for 92 yards and a touchdown and Tyler Allgeier rushed nine times for 63 yards and a score for the Falcons against the NFL’s leading run defense. Cousins, who was picked off four times last week, hesitated as he wound up to throw on first down from the Minnesota 47 in a tie game early in the second quarter and then inexplicably fired a pass straight to Josh Metellus as he sat in a zone in front of Drake London. Cousins has a NFL -most 15 interceptions. Byron Murphy snagged an overthrow for the second one near the goal line with a 35-21 lead and 6:26 left. Darnold, who went 22 for 28 without a turnover-worthy play despite heavy first-half pressure, then directed a seven-play, 98-yard drive to seal it. “I think we grew up a lot today offensively,” O'Connell said. Addison and Jefferson became the first duo in Vikings history to each have 100-plus receiving yards and two-plus touchdown catches in the same game. Addison also became the first Vikings player with three receiving touchdowns in a game since Stefon Diggs caught three from Cousins in 2019. Murphy has six interceptions this season, the most for the Vikings since Jimmy Hitchcock had seven in 1998. Falcons: CB Mike Hughes (knee) was back in the lineup after missing two games. Minnesota's 2018 first-round draft pick returned an interception for a touchdown against Atlanta in his NFL debut here. Vikings: CB Stephon Gilmore (hamstring) and backup OLB Patrick Jones (knee) were out. TE Josh Oliver (wrist/ankle) returned from a two-game absence, and LS Andrew DePaola (hand) and PK Will Reichard (quadriceps) were back from four-game injured reserve stints. Both teams play next Monday night, Dec. 16: Atlanta visits Las Vegas, and Minnesota hosts Chicago. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFLBrowns get 497-yard performance from QB Jameis Winston and lose anyway in season long gone sour

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola denied he has a “personal problem” with Kevin De Bruyne and insisted Tuesday the playmaker's absence from the team in recent weeks was down to his fitness issues. City has not won in seven games in all competitions — its worst run under Guardiola — and De Bruyne has featured only as a substitute in the last five of those matches after recovering from a pelvic injury.

Guardiola denies rift with De Bruyne during Man City's dramatic slump