All eyes on Marvin Harrison Jr. as Arizona Cardinals kick off minicamp

TEMPE – As the Cardinals’ offseason winds down, the excitement for the arrival of rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. has continued to rise.

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray prepares to take snaps during the last practice until preseason camp. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Entertainment or exploitation? Controversial Micro Mania Tour that highlights wrestlers with dwarfism stops in Phoenix

PHOENIX – The Micro Mania Tour primarily showcases wrestlers with dwarfism but it raises questions about exploitation and derogatory language.

The wrestlers line up to be greeted by the crowd, which delivers a combination of cheers and boos. (Photo by Reece Andrews/Cronkite News)

‘Voice for the voiceless’: Natasha Cloud, Phoenix Mercury use platform to raise gun safety awareness

PHOENIX — At a Moms Demand Action event in honor of National Gun Violence Awareness Day, the Mercury's Natasha Cloud and members of her team heard emotional stories from gun violence survivors, reinforcing their commitment to advocating for gun reform.

Natasha Cloud, moved by the stories of gun violence survivors, vows to continue her advocacy for safer gun laws. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Just an eagle: One player’s perspective of competing in a U.S. Amateur Qualifier

SCOTTSDALE – The U.S Amateur Qualifier at Desert Highlands was one of the more difficult qualifiers in recent times. Cronkite News reporter Jack Reeves gives a firsthand account of what it’s like to compete in the intense event.


Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark outlines new-look conference’s vision in meeting with Arizona Board of Regents

PHOENIX – The Big 12 commissioner met with the Arizona Board of Regents to discuss the state of collegiate athletics. Athletic directors from Arizona State University and the University of Arizona were on hand to field questions from the board.

Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark met with members of the Arizona Board of Regents Thursday to discuss the state of college athletics. (Photo by Joseph Furtado/Cronkite News)

Fashion forward: How the ABA paved the way for NBA style, player expression

PHOENIX — The American Basketball Association's innovative spirit and emphasis on player individuality laid the foundation for the bold and expressive fashion culture seen in the NBA today.

Kevin Durant, Luka Doncic and Devin Booker each bring their unique style to the NBA, blending elegance, flair and modern trends to redefine athlete fashion. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

‘I feel free’: Natasha Cloud embraces fresh start, purpose with Phoenix Mercury

PHOENIX – Natasha Cloud was born in Philadelphia and spent her entire WNBA career with the Washington Mystics. Now, one of the league's best passers has found a home on the West Coast. But accepting that she’d be leaving D.C. wasn’t easy.

Phoenix Mercury guard Natasha Cloud settles in Phoenix after spending her first eight WNBA seasons with the Washington Mystics. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Magic Johnson pays tribute to Martin Luther King Jr.’s ASU speech with inspiring address, $75,000 donation

PHOENIX – To honor the 60-year anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speech at Arizona State, the school held its first “Building History: Continuing the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr” event. Keynote speaker Magic Johnson shared how King’s legacy has impacted his generosity.

Arizona State University Black African Coalition presents 'Fly: The Big Book of Fashion' by Mitchell S. Jackson. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Diamondbacks reliever Andrew Saalfrank suspended 1 year by MLB for sports betting

LOS ANGELES – MLB suspends Diamondbacks reliever Andrew Saalfrank for violating the league's sports betting policy. Additionally the MLB banned Tucupita Marcano permanently for violating the sport’s betting policy and playing in games in which he gambled.

Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Andrew Saalfrank was suspended for one year Tuesday for betting on sports. (Photo courtesy of Alex Weiner/Arizona Sports)

Faith and baseball: Valley Christian’s journey from Dominican Republic fuels 3A state championship run

PHOENIX – Valley Christian's baseball team embarked on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, which strengthened their bond and faith, ultimately leading them to win the state championship.


Honoring heritage: Mercury’s Diana Taurasi pays homage to roots on Dia Latina amid skid-snapping win

PHOENIX – Phoenix Mercury legend Diana Taurasi discusses growing up in a Latina household, how that shaped her loyalty to Phoenix and how the Valley’s strong Hispanic population has led to her long list of successes.

Phoenix Mercury Diana Taurasi hit seven 3-pointers and scored a season-high 31 points against the Los Angeles Sparks at Footprint Center. (Photo by Shirell Washington/Cronkite News)

Wrestling with fate: How two visionaries elevated professional wrestling in the Valley

PHOENIX – Dom Vitalli and Jon Wolfgang helped transform Arizona’s wrestling landscape by establishing TrainInAZ and Phoenix Championship Wrestling.

Kevin Koa, a pro wrestler based in Mesa, provides entertainment for the growing wrestling fan base in Arizona at a Phoenix Championship Wrestling event. 4(Photo courtesy of Phoenix Championship Wrestling)