Helport AI to Participate in the iAccess Alpha Virtual Best Ideas Winter Conference on December 10-11, 2024
As the paperwork arrived in Troy during the early football signing period, coaches on staff announced the newcomers throughout the day via social media videos. “To be honest, it’s a celebration of a lot of work,” Troy head coach Gerad Parker of having some fun with it. “I think any time you can have one of those days – even if it’s for about three hours to enjoy them – it’s really good, because there is a lot work. And you feel really good about the people you are bringing into the program and have chose us.” Troy signed 15 players on Wednesday – 13 from the high school ranks and two from junior colleges. The Trojans signed three offensive linemen, three safeties, two defensive linemen, two running backs, two wide receivers, two bandit linebackers and one quarterback. “Of the 15 signees, nine of those 15 are Alabama high school players,” Parker said, noting his philosophy of recruiting strongly in the region. “The thing that I’m also most proud of is all 15 of these players were seen in live evaluations through spring recruiting, through camp or through going to watch games this fall. “It also tells you something about our signees in all of them were not a bit afraid of competing for a spot of showing who they were in a live evaluation, and that’s what we believe Troy represents. We want guys who want to compete and do it in front of coaches and other players. I think that’s what this class represents.” The quarterback in the class is a record-setter in Jack James of Paducah (Ky.) Tilghman High School. James, whose team will be playing for the Kentucky 4A state championship Friday, enters the game with 13,642 career passing yards, a state record 180 passing touchdowns, a state record 1,543 passing attempts and 942 completions. Former Troy star quarterback Corey Robinson (2009-2013) is an assistant coach for Tilghman and also a native of Paducah. “There’s been a lot of great quarterbacks to come out of that state, and for him to be there statistically tells you something about who he is as a passer,” Parker said. “He is so accurate. He has great anticipatory skills to throw in windows. We just really have a strong feeling about who he is and how he’ll progress to be a great player here.” One JUCO signee is bandit linebacker Donnie Smith, a 6-4, 225-pounder from East Central (Miss.) Community College who is ranked the No. 1 junior college linebacker in the country by On3 and the No. 17 JUCO player overall. He finished his sophomore season with 95 tackles – 21 for loss – with 9.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and five pass break-ups. “He is one that came to our camp before the season started,” Parker said. “We evaluated and worked with and showed him who we were as coaches and he committed to us and stayed committed to us while having several offers throughout the year. “You go and watch his film and you see an explosive player, a great pass rusher and a very productive tackler.” The other JUCO product is wide receiver Dariyonne Bryant of Highland (Ohio) Community College who was ranked the top JUCO receiver by On3. He caught 43 passes for 871 yards and six touchdowns as a sophomore. “Dariyonne is one we’ve been on and tracking,” Parker said. “He’s one of the more productive receivers in the junior college ranks. We feel really good about his ball skills and explosiveness he showed. “He has had a ton of production. It’s something that can add to that (wide receivers) room as we give it an uplift from what we’ve lost in graduation and how we want to move forward.” It was announced earlier this week the groundbreaking for the indoor practice facility will begin next month, which was another big sales pitch to attract recruits. “Anytime you are able to show in your program such a large commitment from administration and from your university to continue to feed the program with the wonderful facilities that we already have and make another improvement like that just shows a commitment to a championship program and what we’re going to do in our future,” Parker said. “So anytime you can push that, it just helps in your sales pitch, I would say. I think for us, too, for our current players, they’re very excited, too.” Parker and his staff still have some holes to fill in the coming weeks, which likely will include looking at the transfer portal. “There’s still plenty of work to be done with some open spots that we have done very much on purpose,” Parker said. “We will do that more so in an upperclassmen transfer and junior college market as we move to close out the class. “You’re going to see upward to four to six players as we close it out. That’s going to be over the next two weeks until Christmas break. Then after that, it’s whatever else you have to supplement. Hopefully, we’ll have nothing left to supplement.” SIGNING CLASS BIOS JT Alvis, S, 6-1, 200, Helena, Ala. / Helena HS High School: Helped lead Helena High School to back-to-back runner-up finishes in the region and berth in the Alabama 6A Playoffs ... Recorded 59 tackles, four interceptions, a fumble recovery and 10 pass break ups his junior and senior season ... Consensus three-star recruit by On3, 247 Sports, ESPN and Rivals ... Ranked as the No. 43 player in Alabama by 247 Sports and No. 92 safety nationally by ESPN ... Also plays basketball and baseball for the Huskies Jatorian Blackmon, OL, 6-5, 330, LaGrange, Ga. / Troup County HS High School: Three-star prospect by On3 and ESPN ... Rated as the No. 63 interior lineman in the country by ESPN and top 140 player in Georgia ... Named the MaxPreps Offensive Player of the Game in the Tigers’ victory over Spalding ... Anchored an offensive line that earned Georgia High School Football Daily’s Offensive Line of the Week honors in September of 2023 after Troup County had three 100-yard rushers in a 56-7 victory over Whitewater ... Georgia AAAA All-State Honorable Mention as a junior Jon Bocchino, S, 6-0, 190, Niceville, Fla. / Niceville HS High School: Led Niceville High School to Florida 5A Semifinals (play Friday following Signing Day) ... Enters semifinals with 68 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and an interception ... Also rushed for 207 yards and 14 touchdowns on 44 carries ... Eagles currently sitting 12-1 on the season ... Recorded 69 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, four sacks and six pass break ups as a junior; Eagles finished 9-3 and advanced to second round of the playoffs ... Rated as a three-star by both On3 and 247 Sports ... Also competes in track & field for Niceville – 100m, 200m, 400m, long jump, triple jump and javelin Gavin Bowlin, OL, 6-6, 315, Leeds, Ala. / Leeds HS High School: Helped lead Leeds to an 11-3 record and berth in the Alabama 5A semifinals as a senior ... Key blocker for rushing attack that averaged 268.5 yards per game and rushed for 56 touchdowns; blocked for a 1,811-yard rusher and an 894-yard rusher ... Rated as a three-star by On3, 247 Sports and Rivals ... Top 50 player in the state by On3 and 247 and top 100 offensive tackles nationally by both ... As a junior, Leeds finished 9-3 overall and advanced to the third round of the playoffs ... Invited to the All-American Showcase prior to senior season ... Earned Offensive Line MVP honors at You Are Athlete Birmingham Football Camp in summer of 2024 ... Also plays basketball for the Green Wave Paul Bowling, OL, 6-4, 300, Marietta, Ga. / McEachern HS High School: Three-star prospect by On3 and 247 Sports ... Rated as a top 120 player in Georgia and top 170 interior offensive lineman by 247 Sports ... Helped lead McEachern to the Georgia AAAAAA State Playoffs as a junior and senior ... Won a district title as a junior with the Indians Dariyonne Bryant, WR, 6-2, 175, Portsmouth, Ohio / Highland CC / Portsmouth HS Highland CC: Rated as the top JUCO receiver and No. 9 JUCO player overall by On3 ... Caught 43 passes for 871 yards and six touchdowns as a sophomore; 20.3 yards per catch and 79.2 yards per game ... As a freshman, caught 19 passes for 284 yards and five touchdowns ... Began his career at the University of Charleston, where he redshirted in 2022 Makel Green, BAN, 6-2, 255, Phenix City, Ala. / Central HS High School: Helped lead Central High School to a 10-2 record and berth in the Alabama 7A State Championship Game as a senior (game played on Signing Day) ... Consensus three-star (On3, 247, ESPN, Rivals) ... Rated as the No. 31 player in the state by On3 and the No. 79 Edge rusher in the country by ESPN ... Injured in week two of his senior season and returned for the championship game Jah’Marren Jackson, WR, 6-5, 195, McKenzie, Ala. / McKenzie HS High School: Rated as a three-star and No. 42 player in the state (No. 209 WR nationally) per On3 ... As a senior, caught 41 passes for 789 yards and 10 touchdowns ... Finished senior season with four 100-yard games, including a 4-catch, 3-touchdown, 126-yard performance against Kinston ... Led the Tigers to a region title trip to the second round of the Alabama 1A Playoffs ... Caught 50 passes for 782 yards and eight touchdowns as a junior in 2023 and rushed for 161 yards and two touchdowns ... Three-sport athlete at McKenzie, averaged 15 points and 14 rebounds as a junior in basketball and state finals qualifier in the long jump (finished seventh) Jack James, QB, 6-0, 215, Paducah, Ky. / Paducah Tilghman HS High School: Led Paducah Tilghman to the Kentucky 4A State Championship Game (game is Friday following Signing Day) ... Named the Kentucky Football Coaches Association Player of the Year ... The Blue Tornados enter the title bout with a perfect 14-0 record ... Threw five touchdown passes in the 2024 Kentucky 4A semifinals; the third set a new career record for touchdown passes in KHSAA history ... Enters championship game with 13,642 yards, 180 passing touchdowns (state record), 1,543 attempts (state record) and 942 completions; needs one yard and five completions to set those state records ... for 4,019 yards and 56 touchdowns in addition to rushing for six scores as a junior ... Completed 68 percent of his passes, leading Paducah Tilgham to the state semifinals ... As a sophomore, led Tigers to a state runner-up finish ... Shared QB duties in a COVID-shortened seven-game season in 2020, throwing for 807 yards and 10 TDs ... Former Troy quarterback Corey Robinson (2009-13) was his offensive coordinator ... Kentucky Prep Gridiron Big School Offensive Player of the Year in 2023 ... Won the Kentucky 215-pound state wrestling championship in the spring of 2024 and finished third in 2023 behind two wrestlers who went on to compete collegiately ... Consensus three-star (On3, 247, ESPN, Rivals) ... Rated as the No. 15 player in Kentucky and the No. 84 quarterback nationally by the On3 Industry Ranking ... ESPN’s No. 65 QB nationally and No. 6 player in Kentucky per Rivals LaDarius Jemes, DE, 6-4, 225, Huntsville, Ala. / Huntsville HS High School: Finished senior season with 40 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and five sacks at Huntsville High School ... As a junior, recorded 66 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, 16 hurries, four pass break ups and three fumble recoveries ... Three-star prospect by On3 and 247 Sports ... Rated as a top 30 player in Alabama and top 100 edge rusher in the country by On3 ... Also plays basketball for Huntsville RJ Shamberger, DT, 6-4, 290, Monroeville, Ala. / Excel HS High School: Helped lead the Panthers to the Alabama 3A Playoffs ... Consensus three-star recruit by On3, 247 Sports and Rivals ... Ranked as the No. 44 player in Alabama by the On3 Industry Ranking and top 140 defensive lineman in the country ... Also plays basketball Dakarai Shanks, RB, 5-10, 205, Hoover, Ala. / Spain Park HS High School: Helped lead Spain Park to first undefeated regular season in school history in 2024 ... As a senior, rushed for 1,248 yards and 11 touchdowns ... Topped the 100-yard mark five times over the 12-game season ... Rushed for 186 yards and a touchdown against McGill-Toolen in opening round of 2024 6A Playoffs; Jaguars’ first playoff victory since 2015 ... Caught seven passes for 133 yards and two scores ... Three-star per On3 and 247 ... Rated as the No. 58 player in the state and top 135 running back nationally per On3 Donnie Smith, BAN, 6-4, 225, Greenville, Miss. / East Central CC / St. Joseph HS East Central CC: Ranted as the No. 1 junior college linebacker in the country by On3 and the No. 17 JUCO player overall ... Finished his sophomore season with 95 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and five pass break ups ... As a freshman, added 25 tackles, four sacks, seven tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and a pass break up ... Named to the All-MACCC First Team following his sophomore season ... Helped lead the Warriors to an 8-3 record and berth in the MACCC Championship Game High School: Recorded 46 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, seven sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries as a senior at St. Joseph High School ... Helped lead the Fighting Irish to a MAIS 4A State Championship, an 11-1 record and district title as a senior ... Finished his career with 120 total tackles, 12 sacks and 19 tackles for loss ... Also rushed for 366 yards and six touchdowns in his career ... St. Joseph’s finished 9-2 and reached the state semifinals his junior year ... Played basketball for the Fighting Irish Antonious Steele, S, 6-1, 190, Centreville, Ala. / Bibb County HS High School: Selected to play in the AHSAA All-Star Game ... Recorded 32 receptions for 666 yards and 10 touchdowns, while rushing for a score ... Defensively, recorded 110 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, three forced fumbles and five interceptions ... Named first team all-region and all-area ... Rated as a three-star by On3 and 247 Sports ... As a junior, helped lead Choctaws to a region title and 10-2 season ... Ranked as a top 120 safety nationally by On3 and 247 Sports and a top 40 player in Alabama by both ... Also played basketball and baseball for Bibb County AC Walters, 5-10, 200, RB, Montgomery, Ala. / Alabama Christian Academy High School: High School: Rushed for 601 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior at Alabama Christian Academy ... Added 1,023 receiving yards and 11 touchdown receptions, while completing 14-of-23 passes for 209 yards and three touchdowns ... Dangerous in the return game, totaling 333 kickoff return yards ... Rated as the No. 48 player in the state of Alabama by On3 and a top 90 running back in the country ... Consensus three-star recruit (On3, 247, ESPN) Troy Media Relations provided the bios. Jon Johnson is sports editor of the Dothan Eagle and can be reached at jjohnson@dothaneagle.com or 334.712.7965. Support his work and that of other Eagle journalists by purchasing a digital subscription today at dothaneagle.com . Follow Jon Johnson on Twitter @eaglesportsed Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!brings a bit of a fashion frenzy. Because there's little that brings more joy than scoring those shoes you've been eyeing for 40% off. Or maybe it's that new jacket you desperately need, now a little lighter on the wallet at 50% off. And with an array of unbeatable deals from major retailers on beloved brands all across the 'net, this is time to revamp your style while saving big in the process. And you can get that spark of joy over, and over, and (well, you get the picture). We've selected the best of the best Black Friday style deals from brands you've long adored ( , , ), retailers you've long depended on (Amazon, Walmart, Nordstrom) and names you simply get acquainted with (well hello there, ). We are spotting an astonishing number of deals for well over 50% off. Let's get shopping, shall we? Scroll on for the best Black Friday 2024 style sales. But don’t wait too long — being fashionably late might leave you empty-handed, the most popular sizes and colors are disappearing faster than you can say "pass the turkey sandwich"! Hoka Bondi 8 Levi's Classic Bootcut Jeans Columbia Benton Springs Full Zip Jacket Bali One Smooth U Ultra-Light Bra Kate Spade Madison Shoulder Bag Orolay Down Jacket With a relaxed, vintage-inspired fit, these denim duds are a true American classic — and great-looking to boot (cut). Save over 50% for Black Friday and thank us later. "The perfect jeans," . "Fabric has just enough stretch to be comfortable in any activity, without becoming 'saggy' throughout the day. Highly recommend!" With 37,500+ Amazon shoppers singing its praises, this No. 1 bestseller might be one of the most popular fleece jackets ever made. If you've never owned one, it's time to change that. If you owned one, it's time for a new color — there are so many to choose from. Made of soft maximum-thermal-retention (MTR) filament fleece, this piece works to keep you toasty even on the coolest days. It's thin enough to serve as a mid-layer with a parka or puffer in winter. Large side-zip pockets securely hold phones, keys and cash. And the collared neck is not only flattering but practical, negating the need for a scarf. Underwire bras don't have to be uncomfortable — take it from the thousands of reviewers who adore this one. It was designed to be extra lightweight and smooth things out under your tops, and the convertible straps can be worn straight or crisscrossed. The lace detail makes it look more elevated than your standard T-shirt bra, and it's 65% off. Check out our roundup of the for more. If you're looking for denim designed for women of all shapes and sizes, the Amandas just might fit the bill. They're a classic high-rise pair that sits at your natural waist. Save nearly 70% with this popular pick. "Absolutely love, love, love these jeans! They wear well, look great and just get softer with each wash. Will buy again!" Simple and sophisticated, the relaxed fit of this turtleneck is just what you need to stay comfortable during the transition to colder weather. It's incredibly soft, thanks to a blend of nylon, polyester and viscose. Long enough to cover your bum, it's both loose-fitting and figure-flattering — tough for any sweater to pull off! For other sleek picks, check out . The key to winter warmth? Wrapping yourself up in a sleeping bag without feeling like the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. The snatched waist and pretty pink shade are so flattering and the 52%-off sale price can't be beat. A new cardigan? For winter? Obviously. This cozy cutie is comfy enough to wear around the house and plenty elegant for a dinner out. It has two sizable pockets because everyone loves a good pocket. We spotted a rainbow of colors — 16 to be exact — but sizes are going fast. "I love the material and fit," explained one Macy's shopper. "I like that it's a shorter length than the dusters I tend to wear in the office and that it holds a loose form really well. I also appreciate that I can use the buttons along the wrists/cuffs to style jewelry." It's not truly winter til you're rocking a sporty puffer. This one is just right — and just $35 right now. It has a double closure that zips and snaps to keep the wind out and a slightly elevated neck if you want to leave your scarf at home. We lean toward black, but you can also grab it in pink, taupe or light gray. When Oprah says she likes something, we know it's gonna be good — so it's no surprise that this No. 1 bestselling jacket (aka "The Amazon Coat") has acquired a massive fan base. It graced the media queen's list in 2019 and features a fleece-lined hood, cozy down filling and about a zillion pockets for storing small essentials. It's also much more chic than many puffer coats, and at 45% off, it's down to its best price in years. Shoppers say this "looks like a high-end cashmere," but you wouldn't know it from the cost. The elegant cowl neck gives it that rich-mom style while you stay nice and toasty. And you can't go wrong with that 50% discount. The shearling teddy coat trend is here to stay and the world is better for it. Made of super warm fleece, this long Levi's number sports a giant collar for ultimate coziness (and chicness). Choose from eight colors including this deep chocolate shade. "It’s so comfy, soft and warm," raves a reviewer. "It goes with most of my daily outfits, whether jeans, joggers, sweats or leggings." Colorfulkoala leggings come in tons of styles that have collectively racked up tens of thousands of perfect ratings from Amazon shoppers. The Dreamlux Leggings, according to the brand, feature a material that "has a special molecular structure [that makes] it comfortable to the skin and more durable and temperature-resistant than other fabrics." Our editor Britt Ross : "If you're looking for leggings that are comparable to Lululemon, Colorfulkoala Dreamlux leggings are an affordable alternative (though they're supremely comfortable in their own right). You can stock up on several colors for less than half the price of many high-end brands, which I'd very much advise doing." Cardi season is firmly here — is your wardrobe ready? The striped stunner will add nautical flair to a simple skirt or pair of jeans. It comes in a wide variety of base colors too, including classic cream (pictured), Kelly green and pretty pink. Also, read all about how this top seller . Pair the Automet with leggings or jeans and you've got your official rich-mom-on-the-go uniform. This top seller is slightly cropped for a fitted appearance, and the on-trend half-zip style has more flair than your standard crewneck. There's a front pocket for warming up your hands, and thumbholes at the wrists help keep the sleeves from sliding around. Because it's fleece-lined, it'll make a cozy, warm layer under a jacket when the temps drop even further. This toasty flannel shirt has "shacket" written all over it — and a price tag that's been reduced by over 80%. As we knew back in the '90s, this style is all about warmth, comfort and versatility. Pass it on to the younger generation this holiday season. A fan called it "fantastic even after multiple washes." Made of a breathable, sweat-wicking cotton-spandex blend, they're stretchy enough that you'll be able to move around in comfort, while their wide band acts as a supportive panel to help keep everything in place. They provide moderate tummy control that's not constricting, fans say. These super-softies sit over the belly button to keep you feeling nice and supported, and the extra-thick band won't roll down. We love these colors, but they also come in a dozen other combos, whether you like brights, pastels, neutrals or all of the above. Get them in sizes XS-5X. With a square-neck cut and tummy-taming compression, this tank will soon become your fave layering essential, smoothing out bumps and bulges to make you feel confident. According to our trackers, this is within a couple bucks of the lowest price , so we suggest grabbing one (or more) ASAP. Lululemon discounts are rare, which is why you'd be wise to snag this highly rated sports bra while it's nearly $20 off. It offers medium support for cups up to size C, and the sweat-wicking fabric will help keep you dry during your workout. Functionality and comfort aside, we love the chic crisscross straps and flattering V-neck cut. It comes in three neutrals, so go ahead and stock up. Check out our fashion and beauty writer's for more. Trends come and go, but a classic black puffer jacket will always stick around. This simple pick — just $30! — features the most flattering quilted chevron pattern and is topped off with a cozy faux sherpa-lined collar. It's water-resistant to keep you dry. Snag it in any of four colors in sizes S to 3X. These leggings are seriously warm, and that's something you'll appreciate as the temperatures start to fall. A hidden fleece lining helps insulate your legs without adding bulk, creating a look that's fashionable and functional. They're flattering too: The leggings are designed with a V-shaped high-rise band, so they cinch in at the waist and flatter the tummy area. Style meets function, with a hidden key pocket, two smartphone pockets, and interlock seams to prevent chafing and rubbing. Sure, it's insulated with an eco-friendly filling, but the real stars of the show are the carbon fiber heating elements sandwiched inside of its wind- and water-resistant shell. These create four heating zones — in the left and right front areas, the upper back and the collar — that evenly spread warmth throughout the vest. Even celebs like are big fans. Even if you don't need to bust out a winter jacket juuust yet, you'll need a stylish layering piece to keep you warm in the meantime. This lovely "coatigan" (no, we didn't make that up!) is easy to throw on over any outfit and will keep you toasty without being too heavy. At over 50% off, this No. 1 bestseller is down to the lowest price we've seen. Oprah has great taste, from her thoughtful gifts to her flattering clothes. There's no wonder why we go wild for her Favorite Things list every year! One item that made the list a few years back but continues to be a favorite is Spanx's Perfect Pant collection, which Oprah called — and right now, you can get them for nearly 70% off for Black Friday. The Perfect Pants have a pull-on design with a four-way stretch and have four functional pockets, but it's the slimming effect from the hidden core shaping technology that Oprah especially loves. Reminder: Crocs aren't just for summer. These come lined with the fuzziest of faux fur. Unlike regular Crocs, these will also keep your tootsies warm in the winter, whether you're lounging around the house or running errands. Meet one of Hoka's most popular styles — it made our list of the . Yahoo Commerce Editor Saundra Latham packed them for a cruise where she walked over 15,000 steps a day. "They're ultra-cushioned with a flexible upper that's almost sock-like, so it molds to my foot," she said. These sporty, foamy kicks weigh less than 9 ounces, so take them on your next trip. Certain colors and sizes are 20% off right now, the lowest they've been in 30 days. These slip-on sneaks are an unexpected celeb favorite ( of the brand) and don't often go on sale — so we suggest snapping them up now at up to 35% off. The pillowy shoes have a lightweight cushioned midsole and a removable insole that's podiatrist-certified, so you know you'll get the support you need. Not convinced? These are among , experts say. These sneakers are just what the doctor (or a suitably accredited medical professional) ordered. We're talking about nurses, who routinely work extra long shifts and barely get to sit down. They love to brag about how Cloudfoams have saved their feet. You can walk ... and walk and walk. The Adidas Cloudfoam Pure Running Shoe will provide the support you need to keep up — even if you’re covering a of ground. They're a favorite among restaurant servers, too. They’re punishing their feet all night long, and these sneaks are a much-needed relief. They’re cute and when you're working overtime, they support your feet with memory foam cushioning. And when things get messy, their textile upper wipes clean easily, making them even more practical. Back in 2022, that these quilted nylon slippers with memory foam insoles "makes it feel like you’re walking on a cloud." Amazon shoppers agree, "because they have a sole on them that can go outside in the rain I find myself wearing them to take the garbage and recycling containers to the curb." Choose from six bold colors, including the aptly named Sangria shade shown here. When it comes to cold-weather fashion, nothing beats a classic faux fur-lined boot. This cozy pair, exclusively available at Macy's, features a fuzzy inside and trim, along with a sturdy sole and four different neutral color options. "These boots are warm, soft and very comfortable," declared one Macy's fashionista. "Perfect for the winter. I've had these for a few years and they continue to be cute — the quality is excellent." Ugg makes more than just great boots, and these supremely cloud-like tootsie-toasters are proof. Unlike sandal-style slippers, they cover your entire foot so they're far less likely to fly off while you're scurrying around the house. Some styles don't offer much warmth for your poor little exposed toes, but these provide fluffy wool insulation from your piggies to your heels. Another plus? Their rubber outsoles help prevent slipping on slick floors, and some reviewers even say they wear them outside for quick tasks like checking the mail. On or off the court, these wide, roomy — and podiatrist-approved — sneakers offer just the right mix of support and cushion. Akks are serious superstars, with over 15,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. They're Yahoo reader favorites too. At only $34 for a limited time, all the way down from $80, they're no-brainers. Choose from 21 colors, from purple to peach to classic black. "They're accommodative, meaning they allow the foot and the ankle to move in most any direction that weight-bearing permits," , director of the Nonsurgical Foot and Ankle Service at the Joe DiMaggio Heel Pain Center at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, told Yahoo. Undeniably cool and rugged enough to handle winter's wrath, these water-resistant boots are calling your name, and they're a steal right now. "They’re really nice quality," revealed one five-star reviewer. "I love the stitching. They look more expensive than they actually are.... I can wear them comfortably with thicker cotton socks, no problem." These waterproof kicks are classics for a reason: They keep feet dry, offer excellent traction even in the slipperiest of conditions and feature a trendy vintage look to . At nearly 70% off (!), you really can't go wrong. "With this much style and comfort, why wait for a rainy day?" pondered a . "I wear them all the time. They go great with jeans and keep you comfortable all day long. I love the look of the untied laces, and the zipper closure on the side makes them really easy to slip into." Small shoulder bags are in this year, but sometimes it's nice to have a crossbody strap to go hands-free. This bag comes with one so you can wear it both ways. Get it in black, brown, burgundy, green or white while it's nearly 70% off ahead of Black Friday. "Just large enough to comfortably fit my phone, wallet, sunglasses and e-reader. It's so chic, but still simple enough for everyday use," shared one fashionista. "I haven't used the longer strap yet because the shoulder strap is the perfect length!" Is it even a Coach Outlet sale without the famous Zip Wristlet? This leather cutie is just the right size for your cards and cash, plus it'll fit your phone, keys and a spare lipstick. Not bad for $25 (at nearly 75% off, it's the lowest price we've seen in, like, ever!). It's also available in multiple colors and prints like black, taupe and leopard. The Waterfly — — has a ton of compartments, including a front zipper pocket, a mesh water bottle holder and a shoulder strap phone pocket. It's also a No. 1 bestseller, so you know a of Amazon shoppers are loving it too! If there's anything you can't have too many of, it's socks, and with this pack you're getting Adidas quality for under $3 a pair. The no-show design means you can wear 'em with any sneaker and they'll be nice and hidden, plus they're moisture-wicking and have extra cushioning to keep your feet dry and comfy all day. They're currently down to one of their lowest prices of the year. Coated in Swarovski crystals, these bestselling hoop earrings sparkle and shimmer from every angle. We love a good yellow gold pavé moment, but the hoops also come in white gold and rose gold if that's more your thing. Wear them on any ole Tuesday to dress up a simple outfit or reserve them for a formal occasion where you want to really wow. Important reminder: It's never too early to be thinking about holiday gifts — grab these stunners while they're on sale for an unreal $15. More than 70% off right now, this blue leather beauty is a fabulous choice for an upcoming late-fall/holiday season wedding. You can fit your cards, cash, phone and a few extras, and you'll look great doing it. "I use it for concerts and sporting events when you only need to carry minimal items," shared a Kate Spade shopper.
Daiwa Securities Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Tanger Inc. ( NYSE:SKT – Free Report ) by 6.3% during the 3rd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 36,423 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock after buying an additional 2,165 shares during the quarter. Daiwa Securities Group Inc.’s holdings in Tanger were worth $1,209,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Natixis Advisors LLC increased its holdings in Tanger by 55.3% during the third quarter. Natixis Advisors LLC now owns 72,131 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock valued at $2,393,000 after buying an additional 25,683 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in Tanger by 1.1% in the third quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,965,350 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock valued at $65,210,000 after acquiring an additional 21,793 shares in the last quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC boosted its stake in Tanger by 13.6% in the third quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 317,549 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock valued at $10,536,000 after acquiring an additional 38,036 shares in the last quarter. Bailard Inc. boosted its stake in Tanger by 64.4% in the second quarter. Bailard Inc. now owns 24,500 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock valued at $664,000 after acquiring an additional 9,600 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans boosted its stake in Tanger by 42.2% in the second quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 368,612 shares of the real estate investment trust’s stock valued at $9,993,000 after acquiring an additional 109,388 shares in the last quarter. 85.23% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Insider Buying and Selling In other Tanger news, CAO Thomas Joseph Guerrieri, Jr. sold 3,000 shares of Tanger stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $36.27, for a total value of $108,810.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 59,641 shares of the company’s stock, valued at approximately $2,163,179.07. The trade was a 4.79 % decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link . 5.80% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders. Tanger Trading Down 0.4 % Tanger ( NYSE:SKT – Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, November 6th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.53 by ($0.31). Tanger had a return on equity of 16.25% and a net margin of 18.55%. The business had revenue of $133.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts’ expectations of $125.80 million. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.50 EPS. The company’s revenue for the quarter was up 13.3% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts predict that Tanger Inc. will post 2.11 earnings per share for the current year. Tanger Announces Dividend The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 15th. Investors of record on Thursday, October 31st were issued a dividend of $0.275 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 31st. This represents a $1.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.98%. Tanger’s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 127.91%. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. Evercore ISI raised their target price on shares of Tanger from $31.00 to $33.00 and gave the company an “in-line” rating in a research note on Thursday, November 7th. Scotiabank raised their target price on shares of Tanger from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the company a “sector perform” rating in a research note on Monday, August 26th. Citigroup raised their target price on shares of Tanger from $34.00 to $41.00 and gave the company a “buy” rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 13th. Bank of America upgraded shares of Tanger from a “neutral” rating to a “buy” rating and lifted their price objective for the stock from $35.00 to $40.00 in a research note on Monday, November 11th. Finally, Compass Point lifted their price objective on shares of Tanger from $34.00 to $36.00 and gave the stock a “buy” rating in a research note on Friday, October 25th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Tanger currently has a consensus rating of “Moderate Buy” and a consensus price target of $34.86. Get Our Latest Stock Report on SKT Tanger Profile ( Free Report ) Tanger Inc (NYSE: SKT) is a leading owner and operator of outlet and open-air retail shopping destinations, with over 43 years of expertise in the retail and outlet shopping industries. Tanger’s portfolio of 38 outlet centers, one adjacent managed center and one open-air lifestyle center comprises over 15 million square feet well positioned across tourist destinations and vibrant markets in 20 U.S. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SKT? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Tanger Inc. ( NYSE:SKT – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Tanger Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Tanger and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
Celta Vigo 2-2 Barcelona, La Liga: Recap - Barca BlaugranesE very time I put on a skirt, I’m suddenly eight years old again. I’m watching the Nutcracker , my parents having clothed me and my sisters in itchy, matching outfits. Immediately, I’m confronted by a visceral desire to wear trousers. This feeling is not just a shift in personal style, but something more pertinent to the current political climate – so why is it that Gen Z/millennials like me (and the fashion world as a whole) has swayed towards genderless or gender neutral clothing? I don’t feel the need to dress in alignment with men’s expectations of women anymore. I’ve even recently thrown out all of my makeup! But why am I doing it? What does it all mean? I could, in part, chalk this up to my newfound comfort in pursuing more queer versions of expression – that’s certainly one reason for it. But, overwhelmingly, I’ve realised this knee-jerk reaction to skirts and dresses is because they subject me to the male gaze – and I’m just not comfortable with that anymore. Unsurprisingly, it’s worked: the more I’ve strayed from feminine presentation, the less men try to talk to me. Except on Halloween: on that night, I was dressed as Lucky Blue Smith and some guy at the bar still tried his luck – even after I pointed to myself and said, “Me?! Have you seen what I look like?” Some men, it seems, simply don’t take a hint. It’s felt strangely bold – transgressive, even – to dress in “boy clothes ” and embrace alternative haircuts. The upside is: after a lifetime of being chatted up at parties or in bars, I don’t miss it. Since I’ve been dressing for myself – and less for the beauty ideals put on women – I’ve grown used to a lack of male attention. And I like it. It helps that dressing androgynously and embracing a non-binary aesthetic has not only become more accessible, it’s more socially appreciated – even trendy. What originally skated on the edge of the mainstream in the 2010s has now become a widespread form of gender expression. And to me, as a writer who attended fashion weeks at New York, Milan and Paris this yea r , it is clear this is the direction fashion is headed, too. The Berliner noted in a recent Market Research Intellect report there’s to be a projected increase of 10.82 per cent in the unisex fashion market by 2031. People are after a more genderless or unisex appearance via what they wear. It’s not just a phase – it’s a movement. And many big brands are leading the way into more unisex, genderless fashion lines and styling choices. I experienced this first hand while attending the Le Damier de Louis Vuitton Fine Jewellry event at Paris Fashion Week. I chatted briefly with one of the brand representatives and learned that the masion has intentionally gone a unisex route with their latest collection. They’ve catered to more gender-inclusive shapes and designs, in line with fashion’s shifting trajectory. Why, though? Social media trends must play a role – as we see more and more people from a range of gender identities dressing in clothing regardless of who it’s been marketed to. The fast-paced world of Instagram and TikTok creates a consistent reimagination of the ways that certain clothing items are meant to be worn (for example: the influx of people integrating dresses and skirts over trousers or shorts). I witnessed this at NYFW when I attended the Sam Finger show and saw a variety of styling choices and unexpected ways of showcasing the garments via presentation format, as opposed to a runway event. It’s worth considering all of this in relation to the hemline index – which is a theory that suggests skirt length rises and falls with stock values (though there is not much proof of this theory actually bearing much weight on modern society). Could it be that we’re in clothing gender “crisis” because of the cost of living? I’d argue no – because while there is no doubt that we’re in a time of austerity, this doesn’t accurately account for the way that clothing has become more androgynous over time. What is really going on for my generation is a widespread social shift away from the notion that women’s appearance exists exclusively in tandem with male attention – as per the 4B movement; or protests against the “your body, my choice” brigade in light of the recent US election. Fashion is just one of the ways young women like me are actively decentering men from our lives. This is why I’ve take a personal step away from more classically-feminine clothing – and would urge you to try it, too. I just don’t feel at home in these garments anymore – or comfortable with what they represent.
In today’s Daily Dose of Social Media , we review the most notable activities and Entertainment from ATP and WTA players. Carlos Alcaraz has taken centre stage in New York, serving as the guest of honour during the New York Knicks' victory, alongside his colleagues Ben Shelton , Jessica Pegula , and Emma Navarro , with whom he will play the Garden Cup exhibition tonight at Madison Square Garden. Meanwhile, players like Naomi Osaka , Katie Boulter , and Alex De Minaur shared updates with their fans about their off-season training, while Dominic Thiem delivered an emotional message to his supporters as he reflected on his remarkable career. Alcarazshares spotlight with Knicks in New York City CarlosAlcaraz enjoyed the latest New York Knicks game alongside the stars of theGarden Cup. The 4-time Grand Slam champion is set to play an exhibition matchtonight at Madison Square Garden and took part in promotional activities,attending the Knicks' win over the Orlando Magic, which secured the team a spotin the playoffs. TheSpaniard joined local tennis stars Ben Shelton, Jessica Pegula, and EmmaNavarro ahead of Wednesday's exhibition. After the game, Alcaraz handed outtennis balls to the Madison Square crowd and, like his colleagues, received aKnicks jersey featuring the number 24. World No. 7 Pegula shared photos of theevening, showcasing the tennis stars as VIP guests in New York. “Night 2 at@TheGarden getting ready for night 3 tomorrow @tennisnightout @nyknicks,” sheposted on X. Una publicación compartida de Ben Shelton (@benshelton) Una publicación compartida de NBA Latam (@nbalatam) Night 2 at @TheGarden getting ready for night 3 tomorrow @tennisnightout @nyknicks pic.twitter.com/YGikI7eR6z DominicThiem’s hearfelt goodbye: “There are no highs without lows” DominicThiem shared a heartfelt reflection on his career just weeks before hisretirement. The former US Open champion, now 31, ended his career afterbattling injuries for several years. Thiem bid farewell to his fans at hisfinal tournament, the ATP Vienna Open, where he received a wildcard to make onelast appearance in front of his home crowd. In a yearmarked by the retirement of several prominent players, including Rafael Nadal,Andy Murray, and Angelique Kerber, Thiem held a special place in the hearts offans who celebrated the former World No. 3’s journey. “They gave me so muchjoy, so many kind messages, and so much energy over the years; but also a lotof cheers after tough losses and matches. The journey with all the fans wasincredible,” he shared in an ATP video on social media. “Tennis isso connected to life because there are so many amazing weeks and incrediblemoments, but also tough, long, and sad weeks and days. There are no highswithout lows, and it’s the same the other way around,” he added. “I’veexperienced these things from a very young age, and I believe they’ve helped mein life overall.” Una publicación compartida de ATP Tour (@atptour) Osaka attends film event while gearing up for a big 2025 Naomi Osakais enjoying her off-season while balancing training with attending events, thistime for the film Julie Keeps Quiet , of which Osaka is one of theproducers. The drama, directed by Leonardo Van Dijl, tells the story of Julie,a young tennis prodigy who faces a moral dilemma when her coach becomesinvolved in the suicide of a former prodigy. A fewmonths ago, Film Movement, whose executive producer is the 4-time Grand Slamchampion, acquired the rights to the Belgian film following its debut atCannes. Osaka took advantage of her time in L.A. to attend the promotionalevent for the movie, wearing a striking pink outfit. However,the Japanese star remains focused on tennis as her top priority, evidenced byher consistent training during the off-season as she prepares for a promising2025. Osaka, currently ranked World No. 58, will start her season at the ASBClassic in Auckland, beginning on 29 December. She is then set to head toMelbourne to prepare for the Australian Open, a tournament she has won twice,in 2019 and 2021. Una publicación compartida de 大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) Naomi Osaka training the Los Angeles Tennis Center at #UCLA with her team. pic.twitter.com/qdSFIqpoMq "Turnup for Team GB": Boulter excited to kick off 2025 in United Cup KatieBoulter is looking forward to her participation in the 2025 United Cup , whereshe will form an intriguing partnership with Jack Draper . The World No. 24 iscoming off the best season of her career, winning two titles and leading GreatBritain to the semifinals of the Billie Jean King Cup a few weeks ago, thoughthey ultimately lost to a surprising Slovakia team. “I takerepresenting my country very seriously. It’s a great way to start the year;you’ve got the team behind you,” the Brit No. 1 said. “I’ve got a lot to lookforward to. I’m really excited for it because I have some great memoriesalready, so yeah, looking forward to that,” Boulter added. “Turn up for TeamGB,” she concluded. Una publicación compartida de United Cup (@unitedcuptennis) Alex DeMinaur gears up for 2025 season with intense training in Monaco Alex DeMinaur shared videos of his training sessions in Monaco as he prepares for hisUnited Cup debut. The Australian had a remarkable year, reaching the top 10 forthe first time and ending the season as World No. 9. He aims to take an evenbigger leap at the start of the new season, capitalising on home-courtadvantage in the early tournaments and his home Grand Slam, the AustralianOpen. The25-year-old was seen in a training session that included running on anathletics track, side-to-side drills on a tennis court, and, of course,baseline stroke exercises with his racket. “Work work work ,” De Minaur posted. He alsoreceived a playful response from his Spanish colleague, former World No. 21Alejandro Davidovich Fokina, who replied in Spanish: ""I was waiting for you at the finish line...". Una publicación compartida de Alex De Minaur (@alexdeminaur) Holger Runecelebrates Nordic Battle victory Holger Rune expressed his gratitude to the Danish crowd following his victory in the NordicBattle exhibition against Casper Ruud . The event consisted of a two-legexhibition series to determine the champion. The first match took place inNorway, with Ruud emerging victorious. Two days later, they played in Denmark,where the 21-year-old triumphed 6-4, 6-2. In the decisive tiebreak, Runeclinched the victory 10-6, crowning himself the winner of the 2024 NordicBattle in front of nearly 17,000 spectators in Copenhagen. “It was avery special evening for me yesterday,” he wrote on social media, “To feel thelove and support from Denmark was amazing thank you for taking the challengeCasper . It was a pleasure having you in my country #NordicBattle” Una publicación compartida de Holger Vitus Nødskov Rune (@holgerrune) This article first appeared on TennisUpToDate.com and was syndicated with permission.EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — With Tommy DeVito still dealing with a sore forearm, Drew Lock will make his second straight start at quarterback for the Giants when New York plays host to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Coach Brian Daboll announced the decision on Wednesday, saying Lock showed some good things against Dallas in a loss on Thanksgiving and he will get all the snaps with the first team. “I think the reps help a ton," Lock said Wednesday. ”I’d say anybody in this position would say the same thing. Getting back out there, letting them hear your cadence, letting them hear you calling it in the huddle, rhythm and timing with the receivers, even rhythm and timing for me with my feet on certain plays, whatever we’ve got up this week, it helps tremendously." Lock was 21 of 32 for 178 yards and an interception that was returned for a touchdown against Dallas. "He ran for a career-high 57 yards, scoring on an 8-yard run and setting up Tyrone Tracy’s short TD run with a 28-yard scramble. DeVito was hurt in his first start after replacing Daniel Jones for the game against Tampa Bay on Nov. 24. He missed the Dallas game and was limited at practice Wednesday. Daboll said it remains to be seen whether he can be the backup Sunday at MetLife Stadium, where the Giants (2-10) are winless in six home games. If he can't go, the recently signed Tim Boyle would be the backup against the Saints (4-8). The Giants have had three different starters at quarterback in the past three games. “It’s professional football,” said Lock, who started against Dallas without any practice because of the short turnaround before that game. “You expect roller coasters here and there. But, just excited to be able to go out and play one more time and get to practice with these guys, let them feel my energy a little bit.” Lock, who was signed as a free agent in the offseason, was Jones' backup for the first 10 games. When Daboll benched Jones after a 2-8 start, he jumped DeVito ahead of Lock because the New Jersey product sparked the team to a three-game winning streak with Jones and then backup Tyrod Taylor hurt last season. DeVito hurt his right foreman late in a 30-7 loss to the Buccaneers, and Lock got his chance. New York is dealing with several injuries this week. Defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence (elbow) and rookie tight end Theo Johnson (foot surgery) were placed on injured reserve on Monday. Defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches (neck/shoulder), left tackle Jermaine Eluemunor (quad), right tackle Evan Neal (hip), inside linebacker Bobby Okereke (back) and cornerback Deonte Banks (rib) are all considered week to week. ___ AP NFL: Tom Canavan, The Associated PressAlibaba Group (NYSE:BABA) Trading 1.7% Higher – Here’s WhyNone
Manulife Financial Corp. stock rises Wednesday, outperforms marketAmerica's top professional sports leagues have warned players about the growing threat of illegal alien criminal gangs targeting their mansions. This comes after a string of break-ins of athletes' homes, including Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero published a note about how the sports league issued a "security alert" to teams after "organized and skilled criminals" targeted players' homes. Pelissero continued: Sources say the FBI is investigating the crime wave as international organized crime. The league, the NFL Players Association and team security forces also have been monitoring the crime spree, which is believed to be tied to a South American crime syndicate. At least one other current NFL player's home was burglarized in the past week. "It's legit," said one source familiar with the situation. "It's a transnational crime ring, and over the last three weeks, they've focused on NBA and NFL players, and it's all over the country." ... The homes of Mahomes and Kelce were burglarized on consecutive days last month in the Kansas City area. The Minnesota home of former Vikings defensive tackle Linval Joseph, who now plays for the Dallas Cowboys, was part of a series of burglaries last weekend, according to police. Multiple people with knowledge of the crimes said the perpetrators are nonconfrontational and do not burglarize homes while residents are inside. Instead, they use public records to find players' addresses and conduct extensive surveillance. Then, by tracking team schedules and the social media accounts of players and their families, they wait until homes are empty -- often during games -- and gain access and quickly steal items such as cash, jewelry, watches and handbags, focusing mainly on master bedrooms and closets. The alert issued on Wednesday by NFL Security confirmed the modus operandi and offered a number of recommendations, including not posting in real time on social media, installing security systems and keeping valuables out of plain sight. Separately, NBC News confirmed a memo sent by the NBA to teams, citing FBI intelligence, about crimes linked to "transnational South American Theft Groups" that target "professional athletes and other high-net-worth individuals." South American gangs are now robbing NFL player's mansions... They're targeting the homes during games when no one is there. I can't wait for mass deportations to start on January 20. pic.twitter.com/hzBk1HH8QU An alarming trend of illegal alien crimes has spread nationwide to major cities because of the Biden-Harris administration's nation-killing open southern border invasion (championed by globalists) that rolled out the red carpet to ten-plus million unvetted migrants. One of the worst transnational South American gangs is Tren de Aragua, spreading across the nation like stage four cancer, setting up operations in major cities. Just months ago, investigative reporter James O'Keefe published a US Army North Division memo that warned an estimated 5,000 TdA gangsters were in the US. We suspect that number is a lot higher. The American people have given President-elect Donald Trump and incoming Border Czar Tom Homan a mandate to fix this illegal alien invasion crisis. It's time to hold accountable those who rolled out the red carpet for dangerous illegal aliens .