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Moving forward, it will be essential for South Korea to review and strengthen its security protocols, enhance cybersecurity measures, and reinforce the training and vigilance of its defense personnel. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the constant threats and challenges faced by modern defense agencies and the critical importance of safeguarding sensitive information and national security interests.
The incident serves as a cautionary tale for other entrepreneurs and investors who may be tempted to follow in Wang Sicong's footsteps. While high-risk, high-reward investments can yield lucrative returns, they also come with inherent risks that must be carefully managed. By maintaining a strong focus on financial discipline, transparency, and governance, entrepreneurs can avoid the pitfalls that have befallen Wang Sicong and his company.
Swift's daily impact on Vancouver may have exceeded 2010 games, says industry figure
Article content It might be fun to stay at the YMCA, but the song is not a “gay anthem.” Recommended Videos So says the frontman of the Village People, who has taken to clarifying the matter some 46 years after the mega-hit was released. Lead singer and lyricist Victor Willis is so adamant, he said he’s even willing to sue “each and every news organization” that refers to the song Y.M.C.A. , either in headlines or the base of the story, as a gay anthem. Willis wrote the 1978 smash hit with producer Jacques Morali and has taken to social media to insist it wasn’t written with the gay community in mind. “There’s been a lot of talk, especially of late, that Y.M.C.A. is somehow a gay anthem,” Willis said on Facebook on Monday. “As I’ve said numerous times in the past, that is a false assumption based on the fact that my writing partner was gay, and some (not all) of Village People were gay, and that the first Village People album was totally about gay life.” Added Willis: “This assumption is also based on the fact that the YMCA was apparently being used as some sort of gay hangout and since one of the writers was gay and some of the Village People are gay, the song must be a message to gay people. To that I say once again: ‘Get your minds out of the gutter. It is not.’” The song from the band’s third studio album Cruisin’ has for years been an informal anthem of the LGBTQ community. Recommended video More recently, it has been embraced by President-elect Donald Trump, who has been playing it at presidential campaign rallies. A recent video posted online showed Trump dancing to the song along with Tesla CEO Elon Musk in Mar-a-Lago over American Thanksgiving. Willis initially objected to his song being used by Trump, but in his Facebook post, he gave the president-elect his blessing to use the song, which topped the Billboard chart for digital sales of dance and electronic music this week. The YMCA — the Young Men’s Christian Association — was originally set up as a non-political Christian movement in London in 1844. It is commonly referred to as “the Y,” and has since become a global organization where men are welcome to come and exercise, play sports and seek shelter. Willis said he wrote the song without knowing that the YMCA was “a hangout for gays.” He said: “I therefore wrote Y.M.C.A. about the things I knew about the Y in the urban areas of San Francisco such as swimming, basketball, track, and cheap food and cheap rooms. And when I say, ‘hang out with all the boys’ that is simply 1970s Black slang for Black guys hanging out together for sports, gambling or whatever. There’s nothing gay about that. “So, to the extent that Y.M.C.A. is considered a gay anthem based on the fact that gays once used certain YMCA’s for elicit activity, the assumption that the song alludes to that is completely misguided.” RECOMMENDED VIDEO Willis said he won’t hesitate to take legal action related to any supposed misuse of the song going forward. “Since I wrote the lyrics and ought to know what the lyrics I wrote is really about, come January 2025, my wife will start suing each and every news organization that falsely refers to Y.M.C.A., either in their headlines or alluded to in the base of the story, that Y.M.C.A. is somehow a gay anthem because such notion is based solely on the song’s lyrics alluding to elicit activity for which it does not. However, I don’t mind that gays think of the song as their anthem,” he said.Performance and Powertrain:Canada’s Trudeau survives third no-confidence voteWe passed exam of democracy in Jharkhand: CM Hemant Soren
Guardiola denies rift with De Bruyne during Man City's dramatic slumpDuring his peak at Inter Milan, Stef K was instrumental in the team's success, helping them secure multiple trophies and accolades. His performances on the pitch were nothing short of dazzling, earning him a reputation as a rising star in the football world.
The Syrian government condemned the Israeli aggression, calling it a blatant violation of its sovereignty and a dangerous escalation of hostilities. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad vowed to retaliate against any further Israeli attacks on Syrian territory.
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SAN DIEGO, Dec. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins LLP reminds investors that a class action was filed on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired PACS Group, Inc. PACS (a) common stock in connection with the Company's April 11, 2024 initial public offering ("IPO"), or (b) securities between April 11, 2024 and November 5, 2024. PACS Group, through its subsidiaries, operates senior care facilities, skilled nursing facilities, and assisted living facilities in the United States. For more information, submit a form , email attorney Aaron Dumas, Jr., or give us a call at (800) 350-6003. The Allegations: Robbins LLP is Investigating Allegations that PACS Group, Inc. (PACS) Misled Investors Regarding its Reimbursement and Referral Practices According to the complaint, during the class period, defendants failed to disclose to investors: (1) that the Company engaged in a "scheme" to submit false Medicare claims which "drove more than 100% of PACS' operating and net income from 2020 – 2023"; (2) that the Company engaged in a "scheme" to "bill thousands of unnecessary respiratory and sensory integration therapies to Medicare"; and (3) that the Company engaged in a scheme to falsify documentation related to licensure and staffing. Plaintiff alleges that on November 4, 2024, Hindenburg Research published a report containing allegations to support these contentions. On this news, the Company's share price fell $11.93, or over 27%, to close at $31.01 per share on November 4, 2024. Plaintiff further alleges that on November 6, 2024, the Company announced that it would postpone its fiscal third quarter 2024 earnings release. The Company further disclosed it had "received civil investigative demands from the federal government regarding the Company's reimbursement and referral practices that may or may not be related to this week's third-party report." On this news, the Company's share price fell $11.45 or 38.76%, to close at $18.09 per share on November 6, 2024. By the commencement of this action, PACS Group stock has traded as low as $18.09 per share, a more than 13.9% decline from the $21 per share IPO price. What Now : You may be eligible to participate in the class action against PACS Group, Inc. Shareholders who want to serve as lead plaintiff for the class must submit their application to the court by January 13, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party who acts on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. You do not have to participate in the case to be eligible for a recovery. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. For more information, click here . All representation is on a contingency fee basis. Shareholders pay no fees or expenses. About Robbins LLP : Some law firms issuing releases about this matter do not actually litigate securities class actions; Robbins LLP does. A recognized leader in shareholder rights litigation, the attorneys and staff of Robbins LLP have been dedicated to helping shareholders recover losses, improve corporate governance structures, and hold company executives accountable for their wrongdoing since 2002. Since our inception, we have obtained over $1 billion for shareholders. To be notified if a class action against PACS Group, Inc. settles or to receive free alerts when corporate executives engage in wrongdoing, sign up for Stock Watch today. Attorney Advertising. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact: Aaron Dumas, Jr. Robbins LLP 5060 Shoreham Pl., Ste. 300 San Diego, CA 92122 adumas@robbinsllp.com (800) 350-6003 www.robbinsllp.com https://www.facebook.com/RobbinsLLP/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/robbins-llp A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df72c5de-b967-4398-a6fc-4ae81407137a © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.There was a time when Booker was seen as a rising star, destined for greatness. With talent, ambition, and a drive to succeed, he seemed to have it all. But now, as he sits in the shadows of his former glory, one can't help but wonder - how did he fall so far from the heights he once reached?
The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), China's top anti-monopoly watchdog, has initiated an investigation into Nvidia over concerns related to potential anti-competitive practices. While specific details regarding the nature of the alleged violations have not been disclosed, the probe signals a growing focus on ensuring fair competition and protecting consumers' interests within the Chinese marketplace.Is Enron back? If it's a joke, some former employees aren't laughing
Looking ahead, Doo Hoi Kem's fans can expect to see more exciting matches and remarkable performances from her as she continues to strive for even greater success on the international stage. With her exceptional skills, determination, and competitive spirit, there is no doubt that she will continue to make waves in the world of table tennis and rise even further in the rankings.
Syrians poured into streets in celebration on Sunday after a stunning rebel advance reached the capital, ending the Assad family’s 50 years of iron rule . Russian state news agencies were reporting that President Bashar Assad and his family had arrived in Moscow and were given asylum. Russia said Assad left the country after negotiations with rebel groups and that he had given instructions to transfer power peacefully. Joyful crowds gathered in central squares in Damascus, waving the Syrian revolutionary flag. Others ransacked the presidential palace and residence. Abu Mohammed al-Golani , a former al-Qaida commander who cut ties with the group years ago leads the biggest rebel faction in Syria and is poised to chart the country’s future. He made his first public appearance since fighters entered the Damascus suburbs Saturday, at the capital’s sprawling Umayyad Mosque, and called himself by his given name, Ahmad al-Sharaa. He said Assad’s fall was “a victory to the Islamic nation.” The rapidly developing events have shaken the region. Lebanon said it was closing all its land border crossings with Syria except for one that links Beirut with Damascus. Jordan closed a border crossing with Syria, too. Israel has issued warnings to villages in southern Syria and its forces seized a buffer zone in the Golan Heights. Here's the Latest: Russian state news agencies reported that ousted Syrian President Bashar Assad has arrived in Moscow with his family and been given asylum. The agencies, Tass and RIA, cited an unidentified Kremlin source. The Associated Press was not immediately able to verify the reports but had contacted the Kremlin for comment. CAIRO — The Arab League on Sunday condemned Israel for taking advantage of Syrian President Bashar Assad's downfall by moving into more Syrian territory. Hours after Assad’s overthrow, Israel announced it had seized a buffer zone in the Golan Heights that was established by a cease-fire agreement with Syria in 1974. In a statement, the Arab League said Israel illegally sought to occupy more territories. But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the 50-year-old agreement regarding Syrian territory had collapsed and that Syrian troops had abandoned their positions, necessitating Israel taking over as a “temporary defensive position.” UNITED NATIONS — The United Nations secretary-general is marking the “fall of the dictatorial regime” in Syria and says the future of the country is “is a matter for the Syrians to determine.” A statement by Antonio Guterres also called for calm and the protection of the rights of all Syrians as well as of diplomatic and consular facilities in Syria. He said there is much work ahead to ensure an “orderly political transition to renewed institutions,” and he called on the international community to ensure that “any political transition is inclusive and comprehensive and that it meets the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria, in all their diversity.” KYIV, Ukraine - Ukraine’s top diplomat on Sunday responded to Assad’s ouster by describing him as a “dictator” who relied on Russia to prop up his rule - a reference to the military campaign Moscow has waged in Syria since September 2015, teaming up with Iran to allow Assad’s government to fight armed opposition groups and reclaim control over most of the country. "Assad has fallen. This has always been and will be the case with all dictators who bet on Putin. He always betrays those who rely on him,” foreign minister Andrii Sybiha said in a post on X. In a separate update on the social network, Sybiha said Kyiv was ready to take steps towards restoring relations with Syria, severed months into Russia’s full-scale invasion of the neighboring state. Kyiv broke off diplomatic ties after Damascus in June 2022 recognized Kremlin-occupied parts of eastern Ukraine as independent territories, in a move welcomed by Moscow and decried by the West as a clear violation of Ukrainian sovereignty. JERUSALEM — The Israeli military has issued a warning to residents of five villages and towns in southern Syria to stay inside their homes for their safety. “The fighting in your area is forcing the IDF to act,” the IDF’s Arabic-language spokesman said on X. The military didn’t respond to questions. Earlier, Israel said its troops had seized a buffer zone in the Golan Heights established in 1974, saying it was to protect Israeli residents after Syrian troops abandoned their positions. Defense Minister Israel Katz said on X that the IDF has been instructed to “seize the buffer zone and control points to ensure the protection of all Israeli communities in the Golan Heights – Jewish and Druze – so that they are not exposed to threats from the other side.” Israel captured the Golan in the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed it. The international community, except for the United States, views it as occupied. BEIRUT - The leader of the largest insurgent group in Syria visited the Syrian capital’s sprawling Umayyad Mosque and declared that the victory against President Bashar Assad “is a victory to the Islamic nation.” Ahmad al-Sharaa, who was formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, made his first public appearance and remarks since fighters entered Damascus. He told hundreds of people at the historic mosque that Assad had made Syria “a farm for Iran’s greed.” He added that Assad made Syria a base for the illegal amphetamine Captagon that brought cash to Assad’s circles. Al-Sharaa, the leader of the jihadi Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, said Sunday that the victory was achieved because of “God and the blood of martyrs.” He said that he left Syria 20 years ago and since then his heart has longed for this movement. LONDON — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the end of Assad’s rule as he called for peace and the protection of civilians. “The Syrian people have suffered under Assad’s barbaric regime for too long and we welcome his departure,” Starmer said. He said the U.K. was focused on a political solution to restore peace and stability. “We call on all sides to protect civilians and minorities and ensure essential aid can reach the most vulnerable in the coming hours and days,” he said. AMMAN, Jordan — The vast majority of the Jordanian people are welcoming the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the success of the Syrian revolution. “There is no doubt that I felt overwhelming joy at the fall of the Assad regime," said Badi Al-Rafaia, Engineer, union activist and member of the Islamic Action Front. "There is no doubt that we are happy with what happened in Syria, happy with the success of the revolution, happy with the Syrian people getting rid of an oppressor and criminal who treated the Syrian people and made the Syrian state a failed state.” Al-Rafaia said that Jordan is benefiting from what happened in Syria, and "we hope that Jordan will help the revolution succeed and not work against it.” Amman resident Muhab al-Majali said the fall of the Assad regime is “The end of every unjust and tyrannical rule, and more than that, it mortgaged the country and its people to the Iranians, who abandoned it in minutes... I believe that the future is beautiful and prosperous for the Syrians.” BERLIN — The International Committee of the Red Cross is calling for safe humanitarian access and protection of civilians in Syria after the fall of Bashir Assad’s government. “Our teams in Syria, including in Damascus, have been closely monitoring the fast-evolving security and humanitarian situation in coordination with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent,” the ICRC’s head of delegation in Syria, Stephan Sakalian, said in a written statement Sunday. The ICRC is “responding wherever possible, with further efforts underway, as hundreds of thousands of people need care and humanitarian assistance,” he said. Sakalian called “on all parties to urgently enable safe and unhindered access for medical and humanitarian workers to reach those in need, to protect civilians, and to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law.” BAGHDAD — The Iraqi government said in a statement Sunday that it “supports all international and regional efforts seeking to open a dialogue” for Syria “leading to the adoption of a pluralistic constitution that preserves the human and civil rights of Syrians, and supports cultural, ethnic and religious diversity.” The statement from government spokesperson Bassem al-Awadi, said that Iraq understands “the necessity of respecting the free will of all Syrians, and stresses that the security of Syria, the unity of its territories, and the preservation of its independence are of utmost importance, not only for Iraq but also for its connection to the security and stability of the region.” It cautioned against “interfering in Syria’s internal affairs, or supporting one party for the benefit of another.” Iraq, which has a close relationship with Iran - once a strong ally of former Syrian President Bashar Assad - has taken in some 2,000 Syrian army soldiers who fled the country amid the advance of armed opposition groups. CAIRO — The head of Yemen’s internationally recognized government welcomed the fall of the government of President Bashar Assad of Syria. “It’s a historic moment,” Rashad al-Alimi, who chairs the ruling presidential council, wrote on X platform of Assad’s downfall. “It’s time for the Iranian regime to stop meddling in Yemen, respect its sovereignty and identity.” Al-Alimi, who is backed by Saudi Arabia, was referring to Iran’s support of Houthi rebels who are at war with Yemen’s internationally recognized government for a decade. DAMASCUS — Families wandered through the high-ceilinged halls of the presidential palace in Damascus on Sunday, along with some armed men. Some paused to take family portraits or selfies on the few remaining couches against the backdrop of mosaiced walls, while others walked out with chairs and other items under their arms. On the massive parking lot out front, cars drove in circles honking ecstatically. In central Damascus’ Umayyad Square, drivers passing by also honked jubilantly, while young men piled onto a tank abandoned in the square. But for some the celebration was bittersweet. “I am very happy, but this happiness will not be completed until I can see my son out of the prison and know where is he is,” said Damascus resident Bassam Masr. “I have been searching for him for two hours - he has been detained for 13 years.” TEHRAN, Iran — Iran says the Syrian people should decide their country’s future “without destructive, coercive foreign intervention.” The Foreign Ministry statement issued Sunday marked Iran’s first official reaction to the overthrow of President Bashar Assad, who it had strongly backed through nearly 14 years of civil war. Assad’s government was a close ally of Iran that served as a crucial conduit between it and Lebanon’s Hezbollah. The rebels who toppled Assad view Iran as a hostile foreign influence, and the abandoned Iranian Embassy in Damascus was ransacked as they entered the city. The Foreign Ministry statement said Iran supports Syria’s unity and national sovereignty, and hopes to see “the end of military conflicts, the prevention of terrorist activities and the start of a national dialogue” with the participation of all groups. “It is expected that the wise and farsighted relations of the two nations will continue based on mutual ties and interests,” the statement said. TEL AVIV, Israel – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that Israeli forces have seized a buffer zone in the Golan Heights established by a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria. He spoke from an overlook near the border between Syria and the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights, after Syrian rebels tore through the country and dramatically ended Assad’s rule on Sunday morning. Netanyahu said the 50-year-old agreement had collapsed and that Syrian troops had abandoned their positions, necessitating the Israeli takeover as a “temporary defensive position.” Israel captured the Golan Heights in the 1967 Mideast war and annexed it. The international community, except for the United States, views it as occupied Syrian territory. Satellite images analyzed by the Associated Press show that as early as September, Israel began construction of what could possibly be a new road right along the so-called Alpha Line that separates the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from Syria . The United Nations confirmed that Israeli troops entered the demilitarized zone during the work. The United Nations maintains a peacekeeping force in the demilitarized zone called the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force, or UNDOF, with around 1,100 peacekeepers from Fiji, India, Kazakhstan, Nepal, and Uruguay. After the 1973 Mideast war, the U.N. Secretary Council voted to create UNDOF to patrol a roughly 400 square kilometer (155 square mile) demilitarized zone and maintain the peace there. MASNAA, Lebanon — At Lebanon’s Masnaa crossing into Syria, the mood was festive Sunday with some local Lebanese residents handing out congratulatory sweets to Syrians lined up to return to their country. Sami Abdel-Latif, a refugee from Hama who was heading to Syria to join his wife and four children, said while the future in Syria is still uncertain, “anything is better than Bashar.” He said he expected some chaos initially but that eventually the situation would settle down. “Look at Aleppo now,” he said, referring to the first major city taken over by opposition forces more than a week ago, where life has continued more or less as normal. Abdel-Latif, a construction worker, said he is also hoping that there will now be plentiful work in Syria to rebuild. Malak Matar, who was preparing to return to Damascus, said, “This is a feeling we’ve been waiting 14 years for. “You feel yourself psychologically free - you can express yourself,” he said. “The country is free and the barriers have been broken down.” Now, he said, “Syrians have to create a state that is well-organized and take care of their country. It’s a new phase.” DAMASCUS, Syria — An Associated Press journalist in Damascus reported airstrikes in the area of the Mezzeh military airport, southwest of the capital Sunday. The airport has previously been targeted in Israeli airstrikes, but it was not immediately clear who launched Sunday's strike. The Israeli military refused to comment on the airport strike. Israel often does not publicly claim responsibility for attacks in Syria. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based war monitor, reported that Israeli warplanes also targeted warehouses belonging to the Syrian army’s Fourth Division and another former military site outside of Damascus Sunday. On Saturday and Sunday, the Israeli military sent additional troops to the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights to bolster Israel’s presence along the border between Israel and Syria. Agricultural areas along the border were declared closed military zones and some schools shifted to online classes in anticipation of unrest. MOSCOW — Russia’s Foreign Ministry claimed Sunday that Bashar Assad had left Syria after negotiations with rebel groups, and gave “instructions” to “transfer power peacefully.” In a post on the Telegram messaging app on Sunday, the ministry said Moscow had not directly participated in these talks. It also said it has been following the “dramatic events” in Syria “with extreme concern." It also said Russian troops stationed in Syria have been put on high alert and that as of early afternoon Sunday, there was “no serious threat” to the security of Russia’s military bases there. Russia has waged a military campaign in Syria since September 2015, teaming up with Iran to allow Assad’s government to fight armed opposition groups and reclaim control over most of the country. While Russia now concentrates the bulk of its military resources in Ukraine, it has maintained a military foothold in Syria and keeps troops at its bases there.Korea lifts martial law, relieving some market uncertainty
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Dr. Emily Park, a 30-year-old Ph.D. graduate from MIT, has embarked on an emotional journey to find her long-lost family after enduring a series of harrowing experiences. Dr. Park's life has been marked by tragedy and uncertainty since a young age when she was kidnapped not once, but three times throughout her childhood. Her incredible resilience and determination have now led her to the brink of a breakthrough as she searches for the family she has spent a lifetime longing for.Sprinklr (NYSE:CXM) Given New $9.50 Price Target at DA Davidson
NoneS Korea opposition plans new impeachment pushWith 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.”
South Korea lifts president's martial law decree after lawmakers reject military ruleGetting whipped by a downtrodden Oklahoma squad came back to haunt Alabama. So did a historic loss to Vanderbilt. That's because the Crimson Tide (9-3) were passed over for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff when the selections were announced on Sunday. Alabama appeared in good shape to make the playoffs until visiting the Sooners and losing 24-3 on Nov. 23. Oklahoma finished the regular season with a 6-6 mark. SMU (11-2) earned the final at-large spot despite losing to Clemson 34-31 in the Atlantic Coast Conference title game on Saturday night. "I think it's the right decision," Mustangs coach Rhett Lashlee told CBS Sports said. "... We didn't ever have a bad loss." Selection committee chairman Warde Manuel said it was a tough choice to take the Mustangs over the Crimson Tide. "We looked at the number of wins Alabama had against ranked opponents," Manuel, the Michigan athletic director, told ESPN. "We looked at SMU's schedule and they were undefeated in conference. Their losses were to ranked teams. "We also looked at Alabama's losses to unranked teams. It was quite a debate. We value strength of schedule and that's why Alabama as a three-loss team is ranked ahead of teams that have two losses." SMU's loss to then-No. 17 Clemson came on a last-second field goal in Saturday night's Atlantic Coast Conference title game. The Mustangs also lost 18-15 at BYU on Sept. 6. SMU beat then-No. 22 Louisville on the road and then-No. 18 Pitt in Dallas. "Losing on a last-second field goal ... we felt SMU still had the nod over Alabama," Manuel said of the Mustangs' loss to Clemson. "... It's just looking at the entire body of work over both teams." Alabama's other two losses included the shocking 40-35 stumble at Vanderbilt on Oct. 5 that marked the Commodores' first-ever win over a No. 1-ranked team. The Crimson Tide also lost 24-17 to then-No. 11 Tennessee on Oct. 19. The Crimson Tide posted three ranked victories, beating then-No. 2 Georgia, then-No. 21 Missouri and then-No. 15 LSU. Alabama will face Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa on Dec. 31. It is a rematch from last season when the Wolverines defeated the Crimson Tide 27-20 in the College Football Playoff semifinal game at the Rose Bowl. The second team out was No. 13 Miami (10-2), which saw its chances plummet by losing two of its last three regular-season games. The Hurricanes, who started 9-0, lost 28-23 to host Georgia Tech on Nov. 9 and completed the regular season with a 42-38 road loss against Syracuse. Miami didn't play a Top 25 team this season. Instead of navigating the playoff field, Miami will face No. 18 Iowa State in the Pop-Tarts Bowl in Orlando on Dec. 28. "Everyone that doesn't get in feels disappointment," Miami coach Mario Cristobal said of being passed over. "We will have the onus of just doing better. Go forward and have the opportunity to get better. ... "We have a ton to play for and we'll thankful for the opportunity." SMU plays No. 6 Penn State in its first-round playoff game on Nov. 21. "We're excited about the challenge and the opportunity to prove that the committee made the right decision," Lashlee said. --Field Level Media