‘Be yourself’: Quarterback Sam Leavitt proves experience isn’t everything in strong ASU debut against Wyoming

TEMPE – Arizona State redshirt freshman quarterback Sam Leavitt showed promise in the team’s season-opening victory over the University of Wyoming. The quarterback, 19, heeded the advice of coach Kenny Dillingham and executed the game plan in near-perfect fashion, ultimately winning the game 48-7, showing poise throughout.


Golf after dark: Grass League ushers in new era with primetime professional, amateur tournaments under the lights

TEMPE – The Grass League is a new par-3 golf league that combines professional and amateur players in a team format under the lights and provides opportunities for players to gain recognition and sponsorships.

Drew Kittleson standing on stage with arm raised, holding a cap in hand, acknowledging the cheering crowd at a night event.

Seismic shifts: New CFP director Richard Clark visits Fiesta Bowl, reflects on 12-team playoff

SCOTTSDALE – With conference realignment, NIL and a new 12-team CFP format, college football is due for a year unlike any other. Richard Clark, the new CFP executive director, can’t wait to watch the surprises unfold.

Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, the new College Football Playoff executive director made his first trip to Arizona in his new role to learn about the organization’s extensive community impact activities. (Photo by Spencer Barnes/Cronkite News)

After the Games: Paris Olympics shed light on government assistance for youth sports

PARIS – While the world was engrossed with the Paris Olympics this summer, impoverished children at a local Paris nonprofit were some of the Games’ happiest winners.

The newly constructed multi-sports court near the Féte le Mur building in the La Courneuve neighborhood near Paris benefits impoverished youth. When the court was first opened, it was visited by tennis legend Roger Federer. (Photo by Zach Bradshaw/Special for Cronkite News)

Arizona archer Eric Bennett prepares for fifth Paralympics, this time with family by his side

PARIS – Arizona native and Team USA archer Eric Bennett prepares for what might be his last Paralympic Games. Fueled by support from his family, he is ready to take on Paris with confidence.


Minimum salaries, max effort: The unseen financial hardships of Phoenix Mercury and WNBA players

PHOENIX – Phoenix Mercury players Mikiah Herbert Harrigan, Liz Dixon and Natasha Mack shed light on the hardships of living on a WNBA minimum salary while financial expert Marcus Johnson provides insight on the contract’s value in Phoenix.

Former Phoenix Mercury guard Sug Sutton, known for her energy off the bench, uses her contract as motivation to improve and excel. (File photo by Joey Plishka/Cronkite News)

Photo essay: ASU senior builds community in the Valley through Phoenix Babes Who Walk club

TEMPE – ASU senior Grace Juliet is the brand manager of Phoenix Babes Who Walk, a club in the Valley that hosts walks meant to make friends and give people a sense of community.

Phoenix Babes Who Walk prioritizes the spirit of community and inclusivity that defines their growing walking club. (Photo by Grace Hand/Cronkite News)

Olympics bring vibrant sports courts to Paris’ often forgotten neighborhoods

PARIS – Freshly-painted, vibrant sports courts bring new life to Paris’ often forgotten neighborhoods, a project that was part of the Olympic Games.

A homage to Michael Jordan can be found at the Terrain des Haies park in Paris’ 20th arrondissement. The addition is an attempt by the city to revitalize local parks. (Photo by Zach Bradshaw/Cronkite News)

Behind the Gold: Medical staff plays key role in ensuring athlete success during Olympics, Paralympics

PARIS – Team USA athletes at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics rely on a dedicated support system, including medical staff and mental health professionals, to ensure peak performance. This team plays a crucial role in preparing athletes both physically and mentally as they navigate challenges on and off the field.

The Team USA track and field medical staff, including athletic trainers, physical therapists, and dietitians, work tirelessly to ensure the health and safety of athletes throughout the competition and beyond (Photo by Savannah Bowie/Special for Cronkite News)

From Snoop Dogg blowing Olympic-like rings to Simone Biles’ heart, pins remain the talk post-Paris Games

PARIS – While the Olympics have dramatically changed over the years, the art and hobby of pin trading has persisted. The Paris Games featured an eclectic selection of options.

Olympic and Disney pins are displayed for trading at the Official Olympic Collectors Area Paris 2024 near Club France in Parc de la Villette. (Photo by Sydney Lovan/Special for Cronkite News)

Movie magic in Montmartre, then and now: Paris remains famous for its numerous scenic shots in film

PARIS - Paris, the city of cinema, offers beautiful backdrops and is widely considered the most filmed city in the world. Well-known film spots throughout Montmartre draw the attention of tourists and directors alike.

La Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre has been featured in many films and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and enjoy the views of the city. Disney filmed at this popular spot in the movie Monte Carlo. (Photo by Sydney Lovan/Special for Cronkite News)

Painting Paris: Street art grows in popularity across Paris

PARIS - Street art covers Parisian walls. It is impossible to walk the streets without seeing a tag or mural, as artists utilize expressive freedom. This art was spotlighted during the recent Paris Olympics.

With the Olympics in town, Parisian street artists stepped up their game, filling the streets with vibrant. With the increased visibility from tourists, artists increased their output around the city. (Photo by Grace Johnson/Special for Cronkite News)