Grass is greener? NFL’s field surface dilemma still a concern as 2024 season kicks off

PHOENIX – Despite a concerning increase in injuries on synthetic turf field surfaces in 2023, the NFL has not implemented any changes as the 2024 season starts Thursday.


Texas, held ‘em: Defense holds Cards close in Houston as strong suit, eyes redemption vs. Rams

TEMPE – Under first-year coach Jonathan Gannon, the Arizona Cardinals defense continues to make strides, with a gritty, resilient group that made C.J. Stroud’s afternoon tough. Linebacker Josh Woods took over play-calling duties, and the Cardinals defense answered the bell.

Cardinals player make tackles

One Snap Brotherhood: ASU’s offensive line sticks together despite injuries

TEMPE – The Sun Devils are decimated by injury, especially at offensive line. The brotherhood, however, is still strong.

ASU offensive lineman being interviewed.

‘It was pretty special’: Cameron Johnson returns to delight of fans, helps Suns snap skid

PHOENIX – Cam Johnson made his return Thursday night against the Brookly Nets, helping the Suns hold off a late charge to pick up a 117-112 victory at the Footprint Center.

The Suns’ Cameron Johnson reacts after hitting a 3-point shot during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Footprint Center Thursday night. It was Johnson’s first game back after nursing a torn meniscus for more than two months. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)

‘Stabilizing the ship’: Despite turmoil, Vanessa Nygaard determined to keep Mercury on track

PHOENIX – Vanessa Nygaard had championship dreams. Despite the turmoil the Phoenix Mercury have faced, she is determined to keep the team on a positive path.


Money troubles, lingering injuries: Former Bears great Brian Urlacher helping NFL veterans

SCOTTSDALE – Many former NFL players struggle with lingering injuries and financial hardships. NFL Hall of Famer and Chicago Bears legend Brian Urlacher hosted a Gridiron Gala to help raise awareness.


Balancing act: Olympic athletes try to ramp up training, avoid injury after COVID-19 delay

PHOENIX – The COVID-19 pandemic put the 2020 Tokyo Olympics on hold for a year. Now, athletes must balance the intensity of training needed to return to peak performance in the summer of 2021 against the risk of injury that comes after shutting down during the outbreak.



From MLB to youth sports, baseball sees increased arm injuries in pitchers

Major League Baseball and youth baseball have seen a growing trend of arm injuries that may be tied to systemic overuse in pitchers.


Teammates mourn loss of Moon Valley football player

PHOENIX -- Described as “kind to everyone” and having “so much heart” by teammates, Moon Valley High School’s Carlos Sanchez remained on the minds of those close to him.


Baby, it’s cold inside: Cryotherapy popular route to treat sports injuries

TEMPE -- As Nick Crawford begins filling a chamber with fresh, oxygenated air, Brayden Smith puts on a robe and prepares for his weekly cryotherapy session at the Cryo Recovery Lab in Tempe.