Airtime Newsletter 🗞️ 7/14/2025 | CFP Playoff Expansion, Conference Realignment, NBA Offseason Moves, & Wimbledon 2025 Wrap Up
Offseason Politics, Finalized NBA Deals, & Wimbledon Crowns—Let the Games Continue
July 14th Edition: Conference Realignment, Playoff Expansion, and Legal Fronts
In an ever-shifting college sports landscape, this week begins with power brokers debating playoff expansion models models, continued realignment and musical chairs of schools jumping conferences, legal challenges over player eligibility, chatter around a potential big time coaching comeback, and transfer-fueled investment blitzes. These shifts are more than news—they’re building tomorrow’s competitive and institutional landscape as the House v. NCAA ruling continues to play out in the real world
1. SEC & Big Ten Clash Over CFP Expansion Structure
SEC commissioner Greg Sankey outlined during a recent address to media at the annual SEC Media Days saying the expansion of the College Football Playoff is very much under consideration—but conferences are at odds regarding the format. The SEC currently leans toward a 16-team “5+11” model—the five high ranked conference champions plus 11 at-large bids—favoring a performance-based field (and the potential for more SEC teams to make the cut). In contrast, the Big Ten is advocating for a structure with locked allocations: four automatic spots each for the highest ranked SEC and Big Ten members, two for ACC and Big 12 schools, and one for the other highest ranked conference winner, and one spot decided at-large by the committee
The debate reflects a deeper tension: the SEC’s push for merit-based opportunity versus the Big Ten’s emphasis on protecting institutional representation. Sankey noted that if an agreement isn’t reached, the current setup—five champs and seven at-large—could persist (look I know the CFP has its flaws right now, but its still better than the BCS era). With the CFP’s decision deadline inching closer and closer to December 1st, the discussions will heavily consider revenue distribution, scheduling logistics, and committee selection criteria. Expect intense jockeying as conferences weigh long-term competitive and financial implications
2. Sun Belt Welcomes Louisiana Tech As Realignment Heats Up
The Sun Belt Conference has approved extending an invitation to Louisiana Tech, pending a formal vote later this week as a strategic response to Texas State’s departure for the Pac‑12 in 2026. Returning to its roots (Tech was a charter member of the Sun Belt from 1991–2001), Louisiana Tech not only rekindles regional rivalries—with teams like UL Lafayette and ULM but also shores up the conference’s Western footprint
With the league already poised to expand to 14 teams, this move maintains stability amid realignment turbulence. Approval requires 10 of 13 existing members to vote yes, which conference insiders view as highly likely. Louisiana Tech’s reinstatement strengthens the league’s competitive balance and media reach, reinforcing its position amid broader FBS shifts. Additionally, the team at Airtime views this as a continued trend conference realignment trend, where schools will look to rejoin their original charter conferences. Other most recent examples of this phenomenon include CU’s return to the Big 12
3. March Madness Bracket May Grow to 72 or 76 Teams Soon
There’s renewed momentum behind expanding March Madness from 68 to 72 or even 76 teams, with potential implementation as early as next season. NCAA senior VP Dan Gavitt confirmed both the men’s and women’s basketball committees are actively evaluating expansion plans, targeting potential rollout in 2026 or 2027. NCAA President Charlie Baker has thrown his support behind the concept and aims to finalize decisions ahead of next season
Financial motivations are clear: more teams equal more games, larger TV contracts, and expanded sponsorships—if CBS/Turner agree to underwrite the additional costs. Critics caution that expansion may dilute tournament intensity and complicate regular-season scheduling. Proponents argue it offers fairer access for mid-majors and raises fan engagement through fresh team narratives. A final decision is expected from the NCAA division I board in August
4. Diego Pavia’s Return Illuminates NCAA Eligibility Battle
Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia has won a preliminary injunction in federal court allowing him to play in 2025, challenging NCAA’s practice of counting JUCO seasons against Division I eligibility. Pavia argues the rule violates antitrust laws. With the ruling in hand, Vanderbilt gains a potential program-altering player, while the NCAA faces pressure to revisit eligibility rules for JUCO athletes
This case could set a precedent for granting extra eligibility across the board for JUCO transfers. For Pavia, his return provides immediate competitive benefit; for others, it signals a shift in control from institutional power to athlete rights. How far the NCAA adjusts its rules post-ruling remains to be seen, but this legal victory marks a pivotal moment in reshaping roster strategy and player empowerment
5. Greg McElroy Drops Hint: Nick Saban Is “Not Done” Coaching
On his ESPN show, former Alabama QB Greg McElroy spoke about insider chatter suggesting Nick Saban may return to coaching, citing a “credible source.” Saban, 73, retired in January 2024 and has been relaxing in Florida, indulging in golf and TV punditry. McElroy, joined by Paul Finebaum, also warned that while Saban may still be cooking, it doesn’t necessarily point to imminent action
Sabans legacy and competitive fire make a return tantalizing, especially if a flagging program—Alabama or elsewhere—comes calling. But the current coach at Alabama, Kalen DeBoer, achieved a 9–4 season in Year 1, which helps stabilize the transition. While fans will ride on Saban speculation, insiders believe he's more likely to stay retired unless a truly irresistible opportunity arises (but stranger things have happened in college sports in the last 12 months)
6. Texas Tech Bets Big on Transfers, NIL, and Facilities
Texas Tech is going all-in this offseason: a $55 million investment package, marquee transfer portal pickups, and sizable NIL offers targeting high-impact talent. Head coach Joey McGuire has leveraged deep-pocketed donors to land a 6'7" offensive lineman Felix Ojo with a reportedly $5.1 million deal, plus another $10 million spread across 17 portal recruits
Facility upgrades are in motion—Tech is constructing a $250 million football complex considered to be “as good as anywhere in the country.” Their incoming transfer class includes a mix of immediate starters, setting the stage for a leap forward in the Big 12 pecking order. Critics question the sustainability of this spending spree, but Tech boosters are clearly attaching their ambition to facilities and player investment. Texas Tech’s methods may signal a new model in transfer-era arms races—bold, instant, and high-stakes
NBA Offseason Heats Up — Player Comebacks, Front Office Stability, and Summer League Strategy
While the regular season is still months away, the NBA offseason continues to deliver interesting moves and pivotal health updates. This week brought clarity on Victor Wembanyama’s medical status, cautious handling of Cooper Flagg following his Summer League debut, and a completed frontcourt swap between Denver and Sacramento. We also saw the Cavaliers lock in long-term leadership, Brook Lopez find a new home in L.A., and five teams remain in the running for Al Horford’s veteran presence. The combination of roster reshaping and strategic restraint paints a clear picture: teams are aggressively preparing for a highly competitive 2025–26 year
1. Victor Wembanyama Clears Blood-Clot Issue, Medically Cleared to Play
What happened: San Antonio’s 21-year-old superstar center, Victor Wembanyama, has been officially cleared to return after suffering a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right shoulder this past season. The diagnosis in February prematurely ended his sophomore campaign, so this can be viewed as a big sigh of relief for Spurs fans
Details & context:
Wembanyama confirmed the news himself to L’Équipe, saying the team doctors gave him the green light “just a few hours ago,” and that he’s eager to resume full training
His 2024–25 stats before the shutdown were eye-popping: 24.3 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 3.8 BPG, 3.7 APG—a dominant two-way presence—and an All-Star nod. Wemby is already considered by many to be the best defensive player in the league
The club quickly addressed his condition—he underwent surgery in March and ramped up conditioning via rehab, Las Vegas workouts, and rehab biking
Why it matters:
San Antonio's timetable is intact. With Wembanyama healthy, the Spurs avoid a full reset and kept their high upside intact
This is more than a health update; it represents a major psychological boost. Wembanyama called it a “slight setback,” but now he’s back on track for training camp and the 2025–26 opener
The long-term importance of recovering from venous clotting can’t be overstated—there’s precedent for career implications, but the team’s medical staff and outside experts feel fully reassured
Bottom line: Wembanyama’s cleared and ready to lead a revamped Spurs core into a potentially breakthrough season
Outlook for the Spurs:
The Spurs have quietly positioned themselves to rise. Alongside Wembanyama, they’ve added depth through the draft with Dylan Harper & Stephon Castle, retained Tre Jones, and built around a promising young core with flexibility to add a veteran piece via trade. With Gregg Popovich still at the helm albeit in a personnel role and full health for their franchise cornerstone, expectations are shifting from “rebuild” to “play-in push.”
San Antonio likely won’t contend for a top-four seed just yet, but if Wemby plays 65+ games, the Spurs could realistically flirt with 42–45 wins and a No. 7–10 seed in the West. Health permitting, this is the year Wembanyama transitions from phenom to cornerstone of a postseason team
2. Mavericks Shut Down Cooper Flagg After Credible Summer League Showing
What happened: Dallas made a strategic call: No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg, fresh off a standout 31-point outing including high-flying dunks, will sit out the remainder of Summer League—not due to injury, but because of a mission accomplished
Performance recap:
After a rough debut (10 points on 5-for-21 shooting), Flagg responded with 31 points, 4 rebounds, 1 block in 31 minutes vs. San Antonio—an emphatic bounce-back
His highlight-reel dunks drew attention, but coach staff and analysts praised his versatility as much as his scoring
Strategic reasoning:
As an 18-year-old phenom, Flagg’s value to Dallas outweighs any further Summer League reps. The Mavs want him healthy and refreshed ahead of training camp and the regular season
This shoulder-taping trend for high-end rookies underscores the shift from summer exposure to season-long development—a lesson learned across the league
Bottom line: The move makes sense. Experience sparked his potential; now preservation sets his foundation
3. Nuggets and Kings Finalize Trade: Dario Šarić for Jonas Valančiūnas
What happened: Denver and Sacramento have officially closed their mid-offseason roster swap: Kings receive forward Dario Šarić, while the Nuggets acquire veteran big Jonas Valančiūnas
Trade details:
Valančiūnas, 33, joins Denver as a backup center behind Nikola Jokić. He’s on a 2-year, ~$20 million deal with one guaranteed year
Šarić, with diminishing role last season (3.5 PPG in 16 games), heads to Sacramento on an expiring contract—adds floor spacing and depth
Why it makes sense:
Denver lacked reliable backup minutes behind Jokić. Valančiūnas brings veteran size, solid rebounding, and occasional scoring in the paint
Sacramento gains flexibility and cost control with Šarić, likely to seek other frontcourt pieces
Outlook: Nuggets improve rotation and insurance for another deep playoff run. Kings hit financial reset, able to pivot. It appears Valančiūnas will stay in the NBA and honor his contract, capping of a quiet but solid off season for the Nuggets
4. Cavaliers Lock in Koby Altman Through 2029–30 Season
What happened: Cleveland has extended President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman through the 2029–30 NBA season. The move was first reported by AP and confirmed by ESPN
Role & impact:
Altman, who held GM since 2017 and now serves as President, played a key role in constructing the 64-win squad that finished among top Eastern contenders
His front-office builds, including the Donovan Mitchell acquisition and Draft picks, have earned praise. Analysts call him one of the pivotal architects around reviving Cavaliers basketball
Why it matters:
Signing through 2029–30 signals organizational faith in his long-term vision—continuity at the top is rare and valuable
Retaining Altman ensures smooth operational flow in free agency, draft, and CBA transitions. It’s a rare anchor amid front-office volatility
Projection: With Altman’s leadership secured, Cleveland provides stability around GM Mike Gansey and assistant BM Brandon Weems, reinforcing its championship window
5. Five Teams Now in the Al Horford Sweepstakes
What happened: Multiple credible NBA sources now confirm five teams have shown concrete interest in signing veteran big man Al Horford during free agency: the Boston Celtics, Golden State Warriors, New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Los Angeles Lakers. Early speculation centered on a Warriors/Lakers face-off, but the field has expanded significantly
Teams & context:
Boston Celtics: Likely moving on after rebuilding efforts and the Jayson Tatum injury; Horford could fill a veteran hole or depart quietly
Golden State Warriors: Widely thought to be frontrunners—especially after roster shifts. Marc Spears noted GSW expected a deal to be done earlier; ESPN's Tim MacMahon confirmed their ongoing pursuit
Los Angeles Lakers: In need of size behind LeBron/Luka, and linked strongly via Shams Charania—though cap and roster planning are factors
Cleveland Cavaliers: Michael Scotto reported Cleveland is pursuing Horford on a veteran-minimum basis to complement Mobley/Allen
New York Knicks: Mentioned among contenders via Michael Scotto as fitting their playoff window plans
Analysis:
Horford, now 39, remains a unique veteran asset—combining screening, shooting, rim protection, and leadership. His decision will mark a strategic moment: choose contenders high-profile contenders (Lakers/Warriors), or stay put in Boston. With six teams in play, the market competition reflects both his value and the uncertain finish he might bring to his career
6. Brook Lopez Inks Two-Year Deal with Clippers
What happened: Former Bucks center Brook Lopez has signed a two-year, $18 million contract with the LA Clippers, marking his return to Southern California
Contract & role:
Deal structure includes a team option in the second year, securing flexibility for both parties
Lopez, fresh off a productive 2024–25 (13.0 PPG, 5.0 RPG, 1.9 BPG), will back up Ivica Zubac, bringing elite rim protection, shot-blocking, and spot-up shooting
Why it fits:
Clippers upgrade bench defense and spacing—Lopez extends the perimeter, bolstering rotation options for Ty Lue
A California native, he adds mentorship to young frontcourt players, enhancing veteran culture
Strategic fit:
With Kawhi Leonard and Harden occupying wing space, Lopez's center backup role brings roster balance. The signing uses the mid-level exception and leaves cap space intact
Wimbledon 2025 Finals Recap — Centre Court Showdowns
Wimbledon’s 2025 finals offered drama, redemption, and historic milestones. From Sinner’s hard-fought revenge to Swiatek’s commanding sweep, this year’s champions wrote new chapters in tennis lore. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each final
1. Sinner Stops Alcaraz, Makes History on Centre Court (Men’s Final)
Match overview:
In Sunday’s highly anticipated showdown, world No. 1 Jannik Sinner faced off against two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz. After dropping the first set 4–6, Sinner responded with three consecutive 6–4 sets, clinching his long coveted first Wimbledon title and adding a fourth Grand Slam to his resume (US Open ’24, Australian Opens ’24 & ’25)
Key stats & context:
Final score: 4–6, 6–4, 6–4, 6–4 in a 3‑hour-and‑4‑minute duel
First Italian ever to win Wimbledon singles—breaking new ground for his country
Sinner erased Alcaraz’s perfect major-final record (5–0 prior), turning the tables after his Roland Garros defeat just weeks earlier
Stats showed steady serving: Sinner’s 62% first-serve percentage; both players took 40 winners, but Sinner held a slight edge in break-point conversions (44% vs 33%)
Why it matters:
This final showcased tennis’s evolving guard: No Federer, Djokovic, Nadal—or Murray—in sight. Instead, the era looks to belongs to Sinner and Alcaraz
It marked the first time ATP’s No. 1 and 2 contested both the French Open and Wimbledon finals in the same year, a feat not seen since 2008
Sinner’s mental grit—bouncing back after an opening set loss—underscores his readiness to lead men’s tennis for years to come
Outlook:
Sinner now sits atop the ATP standings with 12,030 points, widely ahead of Alcaraz (8,600), though he’ll need to defend 6,030 points later in the season. Meanwhile, Alcaraz’s resilience in defeat signals that his own era is far from over
2. Swiatek Obliteration of Anisimova Signals New Grass-Court Monarch (Women’s Final)
Match overview:
On Saturday, Pole Iga Świątek, seeded No. 8, obliterated American Amanda Anisimova in one of the most dominating finals Wimbledon has ever seen—a rare 6–0, 6–0 “double bagel” in just 57 minutes
Key stats & context:
Świątek posted 3 aces to Anisimova’s none, with an astonishing 78% first-serve success and winning 72% of those points. She claimed 55 total points to Anisimova’s 24. It’s only the second major final in the Open Era (after the 1988 French Open) to finish this way
This historic sweep marks the first Wimbledon women’s final shutout since 1911
The victory adds Wimbledon to Świątek’s Grand Slam haul: now six majors total, including four French Opens and the 2024 US Open
Why it matters:
Świątek becomes the first Polish woman to win Wimbledon singles in the Open Era
The sheer dominance—coupled with the swift timeframe—speaks to her grass-court evolution and potential as a perennial top contender
Anisimova’s first major final ends in shock, but her run to the final, including a win over Sabalenka, marked a breakthrough season
Outlook:
Świątek's win earns her the No. 3 WTA ranking, vaulting ahead of Sabalenka and others. Anisimova enters the top 10 at No. 7. Look for Świątek to chase more diverse surfaces as she defends her French Open form
These Centre Court finales weren’t just matches—they were statements. Sinner and Świątek didn’t just win; they demanded attention as modern tennis royalty. Their performances will define momentum into the hard-court swing and beyond
July 7–14 Edition: Top 5 Recruits and Transfers Across College Sports
Here’s a recap of the most impactful college sports additions in the last week—from Power 4 football lines to mid-major baseball boosts, mixing both revenue and non-revenue sports
1. Rodney Colton Jr. – Colorado (Football, LB, 4★)
The Buffaloes added four-star linebacker Rodney Colton Jr. (Newnan, GA), choosing Colorado over Ole Miss and Florida State—his commitment marking a minor surge in their 2026 class ranking (up to #79 nationwide). Under Coach Deion Sanders, the Buffs have locked in nine 2026 commits, mostly defensive, with Colton cited for his speed and coverage skills. His addition strengthens a linebacker corps hungry for impact and aligns with Colorado’s defensive rebuild under “Coach Prime”
Why it matters:
Adds quality depth to a defense-focused recruiting class
Symbolic win versus SEC/ACC programs, reinforcing Colorado’s growing profile
His speed and flexibility align with modern defensive schemes that value coverage over pure size
2. Thomas Wilder – Virginia Tech (Football, OT, 4★)
Virginia Tech locked in 6‑foot‑6, 295-pound offensive tackle Thomas Wilder from Virginia Beach’s Green Run HS. A Hokies’ fan-favorite commit, he chose Tech over Penn State, Maryland, and UNC—making him the third OT in VTech’s 2026 class. Wilder is known for his athleticism and run-blocking prowess, and he’s seen as an immediate addition to their offensive line depth chart
Why it matters:
Reinforces VT’s OL pipeline and addresses a long-standing positional need
Competing with top Power 4 programs highlights Virginia Tech’s recruiting traction
Sets the stage for a young, formidable front in the ACC offensive line room
3. Tagger Tyson – Kentucky (Baseball, C, Transfer)
Kentucky Baseball added Louisville transfer Tagger Tyson, a 6‑1 catcher with a .296 average and .851 OPS over 33 games last season. His bat-to-ball skills and defensive reliability behind the plate offer an immediate upgrade to the Wildcats, bolstering their depth in the SEC—where catching talent is a premium
Why it matters:
Elevates Kentucky’s rotation with SEC-ready hitting and glove talent
Strengthens non-revenue sports where national contention is increasingly valued
Signals an aggressive offseason approach combining transfers and development
4. Ellie Muller – Missouri (Women’s Basketball, F/C)
Commitment: Forward/center Ellie Muller from West Des Moines (IA) committed to Missouri’s class of 2026. A two-time All-State player, she averaged 17 points, 12 rebounds, 4 combined steals/blocks, and shot 62% true in high school
Why it matters:
Strengthens Mizzou’s frontcourt under new coach Kellie Harper
Brings size, defensive presence, and post scoring—crucial for program identity
Signals the program’s commitment to building through high school recruiting alongside transfer acquisitions
5. Ezavier “EJ” Crowell – Alabama (Football, RB)
EJ Crowell, a star running back from the Class of 2027 who reclassified to 2026 with nearly 2,000 yards as a sophomore, committed to Alabama. Originally a 2027 recruit, his move accelerates his college career and secures a coveted spot in Alabama’s backfield pipeline
Why it matters:
Strengthens the RB room with a freshman ready to contribute early
Highlights Alabama’s focus on long-term depth through reclassification and high-end recruitment
Aligns with Nick Saban’s youth-focused culture and ongoing roster renewal
Overview & Takeaways
Defensive line and linebacker recruiting surge: Colton, Wilder, and Brown signal a defensive back-to-front emphasis across Power 4 programs
Resourceful roster building: Kentucky’s move in baseball and Alabama’s reclassification highlight non-traditional but strategic athlete development
Transfer + recruit mix: Tagger Tyson showcases mid-major reliance on portal additions alongside traditional recruitment
These moves reflect active, strategic roster building across college athletics—melding elite prep prospects with savvy program boosts in critical positions
Viral Sports Clips Over the Past 48 Hours
1. LaMelo Ball Accepts Kai Cenat’s “10 in a Row” 3‑Point Challenge
Clip: LaMelo Ball takes the stage on a live stream with Kai Cenat, attempting to knock down 10 straight threes… and nearly makes it happen, going 9-for-10, all while chatting up fans
2. Keshad Johnson Takes to the Skies for Summer League Slam
Clip: Miami Heat forward Keshad Johnson steps into the Summer League spotlight with a devastating one-handed dunk on a breakaway, shared via YouTube
3. Max Scherzer Makes Fun of Umpire With Coin-Flip Gesture from Dugout
Clip: A goofy dugout moment where well known pitcher Max Scherzer pretends to flip a coin to decide umpire calls... classic off-field humor circulating quickly via Instagram