Lenny Wilkens, Legendary NBA Coach and Hall of Famer, Dies at 88

November 13, 2025

Lenny Wilkens, one of the most respected figures in basketball history, passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 88. His family confirmed that he died surrounded by loved ones, though no cause of death was shared.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described Wilkens as “one of the game’s most respected ambassadors” and said he “represented the very best of the NBA as a Hall of Fame player, Hall of Fame coach, and leader who influenced generations.”

Key Takeaways

Lenny Wilkens, a three-time Hall of Fame inductee and 1979 NBA champion coach, passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 88.
He achieved 1,332 coaching victories over a 32-season career and was named one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players and 15 greatest coaches.
Beyond basketball, Wilkens was a mentor, philanthropist, and community leader in Seattle, where a statue now honors his impact.

Early Life and Rise to NBA Stardom

Leonard Randolph Wilkens was born on October 28, 1937, in New York City and raised in Brooklyn. He developed his skills on neighborhood playgrounds before starring at Boys High School, where one of his teammates was future baseball player Tommy Davis.

Wilkens continued his success at Providence College, where he became one of the program’s greatest players. His No. 14 jersey was retired in 1996, and he was inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.

He entered the NBA in 1960 as the sixth overall pick by the St. Louis Hawks. Over 15 seasons, Wilkens became known for his intelligence and unselfish play. He was a nine-time All-Star, averaging 16.5 points and 6.7 assists per game across 1,077 games. During the 1967–68 season, he finished second to Wilt Chamberlain in MVP voting.

After eight seasons in St. Louis, Wilkens was traded to the Seattle SuperSonics before the 1968–69 season. In his first year with Seattle, he averaged a career-high 22.4 points per game, earned three more All-Star selections, and became one of the most popular figures in the franchise’s early history.

Transition from Player to Coach and NBA Championship Success

Wilkens’ transition into coaching began in 1969, when Seattle SuperSonics general manager Dick Vertlieb approached him about becoming a player-coach. Wilkens later recalled his initial reaction, saying, “I thought he was crazy. I kept putting him off, but he was persistent. Finally, we were getting so close to training camp, so I said, ‘What the heck, I’ll try it.’”

The experiment became a turning point in his career. During the 1971–72 season, he led Seattle to a 47–35 record while continuing to excel on the court. One game left a lasting impression on him when a coaching decision he made changed the outcome. Wilkens said, “I was like, ‘Wow!’ I had just done something as a coach that helped us win, not as a player.”

Following that season, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he earned his final All-Star appearance in 1973, averaging 18 points and 8 assists per game. He played one more season before being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, serving again as player-coach during the 1974–75 season, which was his last as a player.

Wilkens transitioned fully into coaching the following year and later returned to Seattle to guide the SuperSonics to their only NBA Championship in 1979, defeating the Washington Bullets after losing to them in the 1978 Finals. His calm, measured leadership style defined that championship run and cemented his reputation as one of basketball’s great thinkers.

Record-Breaking Coaching Career and Hall of Fame Honors

Wilkens went on to coach for 32 NBA seasons, compiling a career record of 1,332 wins and 1,155 losses. He coached a total of 2,487 games, still the most in NBA history. When he retired after the 2004–05 season, he held the record for most coaching victories, a record later surpassed by Don Nelson (1,335) and Gregg Popovich (1,390).

He served as head coach for the Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, Portland Trail Blazers, and New York Knicks. During his seven years with the Cavaliers, from 1986 to 1993, he led the team to 316 wins and five playoff appearances.

Wilkens was named NBA Coach of the Year in 1994 while coaching the Hawks. On January 6, 1995, he surpassed Red Auerbach’s record of 938 wins, becoming the NBA’s all-time leader in coaching victories.

His influence extended beyond the NBA. Wilkens was an assistant coach for the 1992 U.S. Olympic “Dream Team”, which won gold in Barcelona, and later coached Team USA to gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

He remains one of only five people, alongside Tom Heinsohn, Bill Russell, Bill Sharman, and John Wooden, to be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame as both a player and a coach. He was inducted three times: as a player in 1989, as a coach in 1998, and as part of the Dream Team in 2010.

Leadership, Mentorship, and Community Influence

Wilkens was known for his composure and his belief in leadership through calm authority. In an interview with Seattle’s KOMO News, he said, “Leaders don’t yell and scream.”

Former NBA player and current coach Steve Kerr, who played under Wilkens from 1989 to 1993, reflected on his influence, saying, “He was such a dignified human being and a great leader with this kind of quiet confidence. He’d been through quite a bit in his life, in his childhood, just in America and dealing with being a Black man in America. For him to forge the career that he did and to make the impact that he did on so many people was pretty impressive.”

After retiring, Wilkens made his home in Medina, Washington, near Seattle. Through the Lenny Wilkens Foundation, he raised millions of dollars to support healthcare and youth programs, particularly the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic in Seattle’s Central District.

In June 2025, a statue of Wilkens was unveiled outside Climate Pledge Arena, honoring his lifelong contributions to basketball and the city of Seattle.

Following his passing, the Cleveland Cavaliers released a statement, saying, “The Cleveland Cavaliers are deeply saddened by the passing of Lenny Wilkens, a celebrated and legendary figure whose impact on our franchise and the game of basketball will never be forgotten.”

Best Sweepstakes Casinos | Top Social Casino Sites for Free Games [Update]

Lucia Schettino

November 13, 2025

Who said you have to spend money to play casino games?

The best sweepstakes casinos offer all of the most popular casino-style games — and they give you the chance to redeem your winnings as cash prizes.

This all-inclusive guide will help you effortlessly navigate these social casino sites.

WOW Vegas is without a doubt our top choice right now. This Sweeps casino flaunts an exceptional lobby of over 400 slot games and invests in partnerships with popular gaming companies to provide us with the best online sweepstakes promotions.

There are many other sites to explore, though, so let’s dive in and check them out.

Best Sweepstakes Casinos

WOW Vegas	Best overall (250,000 WOW coins + 5 SC)
Rolla	Thousands of social casino games
Stake.us	5,000+ slots
Funrize Casino	Exciting tournaments
NoLimitCoins	Lucky Wheel daily free coins
TaoFortune	Generous rewards from missions

Join us as we dive into the best sweepstakes casinos and social casinos, play free casino games online, and compare the important features of these sites, such as their prizes, payment methods, promotions, bonuses, and gold coin packages.

1. WOW Vegas – Best Sweepstakes Casino Overall

Pros:

250,000 Wow Coins welcome bonus + 5 SC
Over 400 slots
Leading game provider partners
Massive daily prize drops
Affordable coin bundles
Wide range of fiat purchase options

Cons:

Weaker welcome bonus in comparison
No live dealer games

This social casino offers an immersive experience similar to real money online casinos – with the exception that you’ll get tons of WOW Coins to play for free.

You can acquire Wow Coins through different methods, such as purchasing Wow Coins, daily login bonuses, and jackpot giveaways.

Game Variety: 5/5

WOW Vegas boasts an expansive collection of over 400 casino-style games powered by prominent software providers like Betsoft, Pragmatic Play, Habanero, 3 Oaks, and Booming Games.

The game library focuses mainly on sweepstakes slots and groups them under helpful categories:

New Games
Classic Slots
Hold and Spin
Megaways

Promotions: 4.9/5

When you sign-up, you’ll immediately be credited with 250,000 Wow Coins and 5 SC to play sweepstakes casino games.

WOW Vegas currently runs “The Wowzer!” promotion, dropping prizes worth 25 million Wow Coins every day. Aside from this promo, you need to be on the lookout for random promotions and jackpot giveaways — as with most sweeps casinos.

Banking: 5/5

If you run out of Wow Coins and want to keep playing but can’t wait for your next free bonus top-up, you can purchase coins on the “Coin Store” page, starting at $0.49 for 5,000 coins.

There are different bundles with various coin sizes, but the price per coin stays the same regardless of the package you choose.

The Coin Store supports Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, Apple Pay, Skrill, and Trustly.

User Experience: 4.9/5

WOW Vegas provides a comprehensive casino experience with a diverse range of sweepstakes casino slots, budget-friendly Wow Coins packages, and generous bonuses.

The site stands out for its commitment to responsible social gaming, offering gaming management tools for setting spending limits, self-exclusion, and timeout periods.

>> Get 250,000 Free Wow Coins + 5 SC at WOW Vegas

2. Rolla – Best Sweepstakes Casinos Online for Social Games

Pros:

$10 coin welcome package
Thousands of social casino games
Daily deals
Free play feature
900+ slot collection
Responsible social gaming

Cons:

Not as many free coins as competitors
Must sign in to see all games

Rolla stands out among our list of sweepstakes casinos thanks to its strong focus on social gaming, while showcasing a free play environment and a thriving community.

Game Variety: 4.9/5

It’s a treasure trove of social casino titles at Rolla, with thousands of games in its hefty collection.

Furthermore, over 900 of these are part of the slots library, including top game titles like 3 Coin Volcanoes, Voltage Blitz Egypt, Flame and Fortune, Le Bandit, and Quick Wins Diamond 7’s.

Some of its game provider partners are big names like Betsoft, Hacksaw Gaming, Koala Games, 3Oaks, Edge Labs, and Rubyplay.

Promotions: 4.9/5

If you want to join new sweepstakes casinos without shelling out a dime to begin with, Rolla offers a no deposit bonus in the form of a free $10 coin bundle.

As you start playing regularly, you can count on gaining bonuses every day. Moreover, you can join the VIP program to earn more rewards.

Banking: 4.9/5

Rolla features similar traditional payment options as many of the best sweepstakes casinos, such as debit and credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.

On the other hand, in case you’re interested in fast payout alternatives, be aware that this platform doesn’t support crypto payments.

User Experience: 4.9/5

Rolla is an exciting option among the new sweeps casinos because you can play without purchasing. All you have to do is register, claim your bonus, and keep rolling for free.

The website design is lively and modern, although we wish it was easier to preview the games even if you’re not signed in. Nonetheless, the colorful interface is attractive and fairly simple to navigate.

>> Claim a free $10 coin pack at Rolla

3. Stake.us – Best Sweepstakes Casino Slots Collection

Pros:

Daily login bonuses
Can redeem winnings as real cash prizes
460 slot games
Live dealer table games
Daily slot challenges
Live dealer games available

Cons:

Full verification required before playing
Crypto-only purchases

Stake.us offers the best online social casino gaming experience on the web, providing a completely free gaming experience with no payment required.

The site utilizes two virtual currencies: Gold Coins and Stake Cash (also called Sweep Coins). The sole purpose of Gold Coins is to play games, but Stake Cash can be redeemed for cryptocurrency prizes.

Game Variety: 4.8/5

This sweepstakes casino is home to 460 slot games and over 480 online casino games in total.

The majority of the games are provided by industry leaders, Pragmatic Play and Hacksaw Gaming, so you can play prolific slots like Gates of Olympus, Sweet Bonanza, and Wanted Dead or a Wild.

The site also offers casino-style games created by OneTouch, BGaming, and Stake Originals.

You can also play 9 live dealer games with real dealers — in real-time. These include Blackjack, Roulette, Baccarat, Gravity Roulette, Teen Patti, and Sic Bo.

If you prefer playing RNG-powered games, the social casino offers a bunch of scratch cards, as well as automated card and table games like video poker, online blackjack, hi-lo, baccarat, and roulette.

Promotions: 4.9/5

Stake rewards active users with Bonus Drops that are posted on its official Telegram channel, Twitter, and Instagram. When you spot a new Bonus Drop code, redeem it immediately, as there is usually a limited number available.

You’ll get Gold Coins immediately after you sign up and verify your account at Stake.us — no purchase required. Other ways you can earn free Gold Coins are:

Log in every day to get your daily bonus
Participate in promotions and challenges
Purchase bundles

You can take advantage of various bonuses, including VIP-only Weekly bonuses (Boosts) that are offered every Saturday.

These bonuses are calculated based on your weekly gameplay and VIP rank, which means the more you play within the last seven days, the larger your bonus will be.

The site also runs a weekly “250M GC + Free 25K SC Raffle” promotion where 5 lucky players share a prize pool of 100,000 Stake Cash and a pool of Gold Coins every Saturday. You can maximize your potential to win by collecting multiple tickets.

Banking: 4.8/5

Unlike real money casinos, you can play casino games at Stake.us without making purchases. However, you can choose to buy Gold Coins through the crypto-only banking system.

The process is quick and efficient, using popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum. Transactions are processed instantly, and you can redeem your winnings in cryptocurrency.

User Experience: 4.9/5

Stake.us is a very active social casino platform with a lively user forum and a dynamic social media presence.

This sweepstakes casino partners with many sports organizations and celebrities, such as Everton Football Club, Sauber Motorsport’s Alfa Romeo F1 Team, UFC, and legendary hip-hop artist Drake, to provide exciting promotions and opportunities for users to win Stake Cash.

This is one of the few truly free Sweeps cash casinos where you can earn Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins with or without making any purchases and still stand in line to win real cash prizes in the form of cryptocurrency.

>> Get your daily login bonus at Stake.us

4. Funrize – Best Sweepstake Casino Online for Tournaments

Pros:

125,000 coins welcome offer
Dedicated mobile app
Special games and promos on app
Redeem real prizes
Competitive Funrize Races

Cons:

Some games available on the app only
Minimum play level restrictions for races

Funrize is a free-to-play promotional games platform offering two modes of play. In Tournament Mode, you use Tournament Coins to play games and tournaments. In Promotional Mode, you play with Promotional Entries for a chance to redeem real prizes.

Game Variety: 4.8/5

Funrize hosts an entertaining games lobby with just under 100 social games consisting of slots, fish games, and jackpot games. A percentage of the games are only available on the Funrize app – currently around a dozen free play slot games.

The platform runs several “Funrize Races” at any time. You need a minimum play level of 20 to join some of them, but the rest you can join for free. Prizes are automatically added to your account at the end of each race if you secure them.

Promotions:4.8/5

Funrize provides a range of exclusive promotions, including a welcome offer for new users, personal offers, referral rewards, and bundle match promotions.

You’ll automatically score 125,000 coins as a welcome bonus from Funrize!

You can also earn Tournament Coins by finishing tasks, like completing your profile. These coins do not hold any value, but you can use them to play games in Tournament Mode and take part in competitive Funrize tournaments for a chance to earn Promotional Entries.

Banking: 4.8/5

Additional Tournament Coins can be purchased if you choose. After your first purchase, the platform’s “Promotional Mode” is unlocked, and from there on, you use Promotional Entries to play games for a chance to redeem real prizes.

Promotional Entries are available in bundles containing Tournament Coins and Promotional Entries.

The site supports Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Trustly, and other online banking methods. You can also get promotional entries by entering competitions or requesting them via mail.

User Experience: 4.9/5

The Funrize platform boasts a user-friendly interface, both on its website and mobile app, ensuring smooth navigation and gameplay. The mobile app provides exclusive titles for added entertainment.

>> Get 125,000 coins at Funrize

5. NoLimitCoins – Biggest Welcome Bonus of All Sweepstakes Casinos

Pros:

100K Gold Coins Welcome Offer
Free Lucky Wheel spin daily
Daily Super Coins tournaments
Redeem real cash prizes

Cons:

Limited slot variety
No table games

When you register at NoLimitCoins, you get free Gold Coins and are defaulted to “Gold Coins” mode to enjoy the games and tournaments.

After you purchase Gold Coins, the “Super Coins” mode is unlocked forever, and you can use your winnings to redeem cash prizes!

Game Variety: 4.5/5

This sweepstakes casino features a collection of 70+ games powered by NetGame Entertainment, covering a range of themes, including classic slots, innovative video slots, and slots with progressive jackpots.

The games library isn’t very big, but there are some really fun slots, such as Big Catch Bonanza, Fortune Skulls, Wolf Reels, and Squid Slot.

You can play casino games by yourself or in tournaments. When you launch a game, you’ll be presented with the tournament information, so you can continue playing the game as you were or click the “Join Tournament” button.

Most of the tournaments in “Gold Coins” mode offer prize pools of 5 million Gold Coins, with top prizes of 2 million Gold Coins for the winner.

Promotions: 4.9/5

NoLimitCoins gives new players a boost with 100,000 Gold Coins simply for signing up. You can use your Gold Coins to play the games and the tournaments, but you can’t redeem them for real cash prizes.

But that’s not all! You can spin the Lucky Wheel every day to collect more free coins. Simply verify your phone number to unlock the wheel and start spinning. You have the chance to win prizes of up to 225K Gold Coins and 500 Super Coins.

As an extra welcome offer, the site gives you a discount on your first Gold Coins purchase. You’ll receive 33% more when you purchase the $29.99 package, which consists of 1,050,000 Gold Coins plus 3,999 Super Coins for free. The regular price is $39.99 – so it’s a huge saving.

Banking: 4.8/5

While no deposits are necessary to play, you can purchase Gold Coin packages using Visa, Mastercard, and Discover cards, as well as a variety of online banking methods, such as Trustly and Apple Pay.

Prizes can be redeemed using Super Coins, and you must verify your account to redeem cash prizes.

User Experience: 4.8/5

NoLimitCoins is mobile-friendly and accessible on mobile devices without the need for a separate app.

Customer support is provided through 24/7 live chat and email. The ongoing promotions and rewards offer multiple ways to earn Gold and Super coins – and win cash prizes.

>> Register and get 100,000 Free Coins [NoLimitCoins]

6. TaoFortune – Best Sweepstake Casino for Ongoing Bonuses

Pros:

100,000 coins as sign up bonus
Gamified sweeps casino
Daily “Magic Boxes”
Great variety of online slots

Cons:

Doesn’t have dedicated mobile apps
No live dealer games and table games

At TaoFortune, you can play games in 2 different modes. Play for fun in “TAO Coins” mode, or play to win real prizes in “Secret Coins” mode. Secret Coins can be used to redeem real money prizes once a threshold is met.

Game Variety: 4.4/5

TaoFortune presents an assortment of premium jackpot games, slots, and “Hold-n-Link” games, so there’s plenty of variety to choose from.

What sets TaoFortune apart is the gamified nature of the social casino. Just about everything you do while you’re logged in is part of a game – your own, personal quest.

Click on the “Quest” icon to view your current “Mission” – then complete it to earn Coins and Stars and unlock your next mission.

Promotions: 4.8/5

TaoFortune welcomes new players with an impressive welcome bonus of 100,000 coins that can be used across different casino-style games. There are ongoing promotions, including purchase promotions and rewards for inviting friends to sign up and join the fun.

The prices for coin packages start at $4.98 for 50,000 TAO Coins plus 500 free Secret Coins, but there are always better deals available. The “50% More” deal gets you 600,000 TAO Coins and 3,000 free Secret Coins for a total of $19.88, as opposed to the regular $30 price.

After you verify your phone number, you get to play the “Magic Boxes” game once every 24 hours. Choose a chest and unlock up to 275,000 TAO Coins and 500 Secret Coins each day!

Banking: 4.9/5

TaoFortune provides a variety of payment methods, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and various online banking methods.

You’ll get 5% extra Coins when you use online banking for your purchases.

User Experience: 4.7/5

The platform boasts a responsive, user-friendly experience, both on desktop and mobile devices, though there is no dedicated app. Safety is prioritized, with measures in place to ensure fair gameplay.

>> Grab 100,000 coins at TaoFortune

Ranking Criteria for Top Sweepstakes Casinos & Social Casino Sites

Reputation — When it comes to choosing an online sweepstakes casino, reputation should be your guiding light. A casino’s reputation reflects its trustworthiness, fairness, and commitment to players. Look for established sweeps casinos with positive feedback from players and reliable reviews.

Game Variety — Diversity in game selection is a cornerstone of any exceptional online sweepstakes casino. A rich assortment of slots, table games, and even live dealer casino games enhances your gaming experience.

Promotions — Promotions spice up your gaming journey and can significantly impact your winnings. Seek sweeps casinos that offer enticing bonuses, free sweeps coins, and engaging tournaments.

Payment Methods — A reliable sweepstakes casino should offer various options for purchases and withdrawals, making transactions smooth and hassle-free. Look for sweepstakes casinos that support popular methods while ensuring your financial information is well-protected with SSL encryption.

User Experience — Intuitive navigation, user-friendly interfaces, and responsive customer support contribute to an enhanced experience. Sweepstakes casinos that are more active on social media sites will provide a better social experience than others.

What is the Best Sweepstakes Casino Site?

WOW Vegas is the best sweepstakes casino site with an unbeatable reputation.

Its partnerships with reputable game providers demonstrate its commitment to ensuring that players have a thrilling lineup of themed promotions to look forward to.

Partnership Campaigns & Ongoing Promotions

Every player has access to a range of captivating promotions and bonuses, such as a welcome package of 250,000 Wow Coins and 5 SC.

Better yet, “The Wowzer!” promotion gives players like you the chance to possibly win 25 million Wow Coins every day.

Sweepstakes Games at Stake.us

WOW Vegas presents a diverse collection of more than 400 slot games, such as WOW Vegas Delights, Take the Bank, Buffalo Blast WOW, and Sweety Treaty.

Some of the top-notch gaming providers collaborating with this platform are Booming Games, Pragmatic Play, Betsoft, 3 Oaks, and Habanero.

User Interface & Social Features

This is one of the only sweepstakes casinos that actively promotes social interaction with the community, while the instant play feature lets you play right away on your phone, tablet, or laptop without downloading anything.

WOW Vegas maintains an active presence on social media like Facebook and Instagram to stay connected with its player community.

Win Real Cash Prizes

The site operates with two virtual tokens – WOW Coins and Sweeps Coins. Take note that WOW coins are used to play for fun only and have no monetary value.

Are Sweepstakes Casinos Safe?

Sweepstakes casinos are safe as long as they have games by famous providers and use reliable payment methods.

While sweepstakes casinos don’t involve real money gambling, you’ll still share your name, email, and cell number. If you opt to purchase Gold Coins packages, your financial details may also be needed.

It’s crucial to play with a reputable site, like Stake.us, recommended by reliable reviewers and fellow players.

How Do Sweepstakes Casinos Work?

Sweepstakes casinos generally follow a similar structure that offers you free Sweeps Coins, but they tend to give the Sweeps Coins their own names.

You can redeem Sweeps Coins winnings for real cash prizes once you meet the site’s requirements.

Gold Coins at sweepstakes casino sites are different from Sweeps Coins. You can purchase them or get them via the site’s promotions, but you can’t redeem them for cash prizes – and their main purpose is to play free casino games without having to spend money.

When you sign up, you might receive a welcome bonus of Gold Coins that can be used immediately. This allows you to enjoy casino games without making a purchase. However, when you do purchase Gold Coins, you usually get free Sweeps Coins as a bonus.

You can earn more Gold Coins through various methods, including daily login bonuses, weekly or monthly rewards, bonus wheel spins, referring friends, winning games, achieving high rankings in tournaments, and participating in prize draws.

Sweeps Coins are always provided to you free of charge. You don’t have to spend any money to receive them.

Additionally, there is never a requirement to make a purchase in order to enjoy the social casino games available on these platforms — as opposed to traditional online casinos where you must make a deposit first.

Can You Play for Real Money at Sweeps and Social Casinos?

We get this, or “Can I cash a check at a casino?” a lot! Here’s the deal: You can’t play for real money directly at sweepstakes casinos. However, when you make a purchase, you will usually receive Sweep Coins, which can later be redeemed for real cash prizes once you meet the site’s minimum threshold.

Let’s try to break it down even better.

Sweepstakes casinos offer a different approach compared to real money casino sites. Instead of using actual currency, like dollars, sweepstakes casinos use virtual coins for gameplay.

Any balances that you have at sweepstakes casinos are virtual currency. They do not represent real money, and you can’t withdraw your balances.

You can exchange Sweeps Coins for real prizes at the best sweepstakes casinos. It’s the same concept as exchanging coins for prizes at a Game Arcade in the mall.

What Games Can I Play at the Best Sweepstakes Casinos?

You can play a full range of casino-style games at the best social casinos.

In the past, sweepstakes games were limited to classic slots, but today, platforms like Stake.us offer table games, card games, arcade style games, live dealer sweepstakes casino games, and every type of slot game imaginable.

At Stake.us, you can access free live dealer games and innovative Stake Originals for a comprehensive gaming experience.

Which Sweepstakes Casino Has the Best App?

Stake.us has the best sweepstakes casino web app, while Funrize has the best downloadable social gaming app.

The Stake.us web app is optimized for seamless mobile gaming, providing a user-friendly interface, responsive design, and intuitive navigation.

You don’t have to download or install anything on your mobile device to enjoy the extensive selection of casino games, promotions, and features.

On the other hand, Funrize provides a downloadable application that you can install on your device.

With the app, you can access a diverse collection of social games, tournaments, and promotions – including some games and promos that aren’t available on the Funrize desktop platform.

What are Gold Coins and How Do They Work at Online Sweepstakes Casinos?

Gold Coins are the virtual currency used for gameplay in online sweepstakes casinos, allowing you to play a variety of games like table games and online slots for free, while standing as the best coin value book of its own category.

You can obtain Gold Coins through welcome bonuses, daily rewards, promotions, or direct purchases and use them to place bets on casino games like you would with real money.

While Gold Coins cannot be exchanged for cash or withdrawn, they are essential for accessing Sweeps Coins, which can be exchanged for cash prizes at the best sweepstakes casinos.

Why Should I Use Sweepstakes Casino Sites?

Sweepstakes casino sites provide a secure and legal alternative to real money online casinos, an opportunity that is up for grabs now.

Even in states where real money casinos are available, you can experience the thrill of playing free games without risking your own funds when you play at social casinos. And there’s the added potential to win actual cash prizes.

Here are a few reasons why you should consider playing sweepstakes casino games:

Widely Accessible: Sweeps casinos are available online in most states, so you will have fewer issues logging in when you’re traveling than you typically do with logging into real money casinos.
Free-to-Play Games: Sweepstake casinos let you play the games even if you don’t purchase Gold Coins. You may need to wait for your next Gold Coins bonus if the site doesn’t offer demo play, but you will receive a new bonus soon enough.
Real Cash Prizes: Even though you can play for free at all of the best sweepstakes casinos – it doesn’t mean that you can’t redeem real cash prizes. Once you accumulate enough sweep coins, you can redeem them as real prizes at a rate of 1 SC = $1.

Best Sweepstakes Casinos: FAQ

These are some essential things you should know about both established and new sweeps cash casino sites.

Do I Have to Download an App to Play at Sweepstakes Casinos?

No, you don’t have to download an app to play at sweepstakes and social casinos. You can play on your mobile phone through your web browser for instant gaming and convenience.

How Do I Claim a Bonus at a Social Casino?

You can claim a bonus at a social casino by signing up and verifying your account. Most sweepstakes casinos, including WOW Vegas, Rolla, and Stake.us, will give you a starting bonus.

The types of bonuses and frequency of the bonuses depend on the sweepstakes casino gaming site.

Stake.us awards bonuses for logging in daily, entering social media promotions, and participating in slots challenges.

Are Sweepstakes Casinos Considered Gambling?

No, sweepstakes casinos are not gambling, even though you can play casino-style games and sometimes win real money prizes.

Sweepstakes casinos offer virtual currency known as “Sweeps Coins” that can be redeemed for cash prizes, while real money gambling involves playing casino games with actual currency and winning or losing real money.

If you’re looking for real gambling, check out our reviews of the best crypto casinos.

Comparison of the 6 Best Sweepstakes Casinos

Here’s a quick summary of the best sweepstakes casinos with their features:

WOW Vegas: This sweeps casino offers over 400 casino-style games powered by top software providers. You’ll get 250,000 Wow Coins paired with 5 SC for signing up, after which you can take advantage of “The Wowzer!” promotion, where 25 million Wow Coins are up for grabs.

Rolla: Our list of social casinos also features Rolla, which has edge because of its thousands of social casino games and over 900 of slot titles. On top of being designed for free play, it also welcomes new players with a free $10 coin pack.

Stake.us: This vibrant social casino fosters active engagement through its lively user chat and dynamic social media presence. Among the best bonuses is the weekly “250M GC + Free 25K SC Raffle, and you can play over 480 online casino games and 9 live dealer games.

Funrize: This free-to-play platform offers a diverse lobby of around 100 social games, including top-quality slots, fish games, jackpots, and exclusive games. You’ll receive 125,000 coins for registering, and additional coins can be earned by completing tasks.

NoLimitCoins: Enjoy a collection of over 70 sweepstakes games powered by NetGame Entertainment and enter tournaments with top prizes of 2 million Gold Coins or more. As a new player, you get 100,000 Gold Coins for signing up.

TaoFortune: This sweeps casino offers a unique gamified experience and loads of jackpot games. Complete tasks to advance on your personal quest, earning you Coins and Stars while unlocking new missions. Get 100,000 coins when you sign up – no purchase required!

Sweepstakes Casinos vs. Social Casino Sites: Key Differences

Both platforms hand you coins, light up a screen, and let you spin. That’s where the similarities stop. The real split is in what those coins represent once you’re done playing.

Virtual Currency Systems

Sweepstakes casinos keep two wallets: Gold Coins for fun, Sweeps Coins for prizes. The best online social casinos only give you fun-money coins. There are no social casinos that pay real money. Lately, a few sites toy with game coins crypto bundles, though they’re still just for play.

Real Prize Redemption

Here’s the big one. Sweeps Coins can be turned into gift cards or crypto. That’s the hook. Social casinos? You’ll spin, you’ll win, but you can’t make real money playing games there.

Availability and Legal Standing

Social casinos are easy — they’re everywhere, treated as entertainment apps. Sweepstakes casinos were built with U.S. sweepstakes law in mind, which is why they’re legal in most states without being “casinos” in the traditional sense. There are no direct sweepstakes casinos for real money

Promotions and Rewards

Sweeps sites throw in raffles, prize draws, and bonus-loaded coin bundles. Social casinos stay lighter: themed events, leaderboards, community features. Fun, yes. Redeemable, no.

Licenses, Safety, and Legal Age at Online Sweepstakes Casinos

Sweepstakes casinos don’t march under the same banner as Las Vegas or Atlantic City operators. They sit in their own lane, running under promotional sweepstakes rules. That’s why you’ll find them accessible across most states, but still wrapped in a few legal caveats. The smart move is always checking what’s required before diving in.

Sweepstakes Casino Licenses Explained

There’s no Nevada Gaming Control Board badge here, no Malta license either. Instead, the whole system is shaped by sweepstakes regulations. Still, a lot of the games you’ll see are from household providers — the same places where players often sign in through tools like Pragmatic Works login to access their slots.

Safety Measures for Players

Think SSL locks, encrypted payments, and trusted processors. That’s what you want to see. Especially if the end goal is to make real money playing games, since those Sweeps Coins only matter if you can redeem them without hiccups.

Legal Age Requirements

Some sites draw the line at 18, others at 21. Always worth double-checking. It’s a bit like flipping through a Brazil coin value book: the basics are the same, but the fine details change depending on where you look.

Responsible Play Tools

Most sweeps casinos offer safety nets — reminders to take a break, caps on Gold Coin buys, even lock-out options. Not glamorous, but certainly useful.

How to Sign Up at Online Sweepstakes Casinos

If you’re new to all this, starting out at a social or sweepstakes casino might seem challenging. But we’ll ease you into it.

Follow the simple steps outlined below to sign up at WOW Vegas without any hassle. Once you’ve got the hang of it, navigating the process at other online sweepstakes casinos will be a breeze.

Step 1: Create an Account

Open the official WOW Vegas website
Click (or tap) the “Register instantly” button
Enter your details and create a “Username” and “Password”
Click the”Continue” button

Step 2: Open the Verification Link

Tick the ‘T&C’ checkbox to accept the terms and conditions
Click “Play Now”
Click “Get Verified”
To open the Verification link, scan the QR code with your phone or enter your mobile number on the “Let’s get you verified” page and click on the link in the text message you receive

Step 3: Full Verification

Tap “Let’s go!” on your phone
Take a photo of your ID card, passport, driver’s license, or residence permit
Follow the prompts to take a selfie in line with the criteria
Start playing right away with WOW coins and SC!

Tips for Playing Sweepstakes Casino Games

Take Advantage of Bonuses & Sweepstakes Promotions

Sign up at numerous sweepstakes casinos to explore a wider range of promotions and take advantage of all the best offers. If you capitalize on the various welcome bonuses and promotions, you can increase your Gold Coins balances and your playing opportunities.

Set a Budget

Create a sweepstakes gaming budget and make sure you stick to it. By effectively managing your bankroll, you can engage in responsible play. You can use the Responsible Gaming tools provided by the best sweepstakes casinos to avoid going overboard with your spending.

Explore the Sweepstakes Games

Don’t get stuck on the same game. Broaden your horizons by exploring the games libraries at various sweeps casinos. By experimenting with different games, you can discover those that align with your preferences or those that offer better odds and larger payouts.

Last but not least, it can be good to switch things up every now and then. You might want to check out sports betting sites for a different pace!

Ready to Play Sweepstakes Games at the Best Social Casinos?

Sweepstakes and social casinos guarantee a fantastic experience by offering top-quality games and daily bonuses – and you’ve just learned everything about the best of them.

WOW Vegas is definitely our team’s top pick among the best sweepstakes casinos, featuring more than 400 slot games plus a welcome bonus of 250,000 WOW coins and 5 SC.

That said, always be on the lookout for special promotions and promo codes at other social casinos, as they will enhance your free gaming experience.

Have fun playing sweepstakes casino games!

Important information for our readers:

Participation is restricted to adults 21+.
Gambling carries financial risk and may lead to addiction.
Never gamble with money you can’t afford to lose.
Check your local laws to confirm online gambling is allowed where you live.
If you need help, call 1‑800‑GAMBLER for free, confidential support any time.

More details: https://www.ncpgambling.org/

Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality: How His Mindset Inspires NFL Greats

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 12, 2025

On October 11, 2020, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott suffered a gruesome ankle injury at AT&T Stadium. His foot twisted, bone visible beneath his sock. “I tried to plant my feet and put my foot back in place,” he later told The Ringer.

Nearby stood Logan Ryan, the New York Giants defender who made the tackle and who knew the pain firsthand from a similar injury. That night, Ryan sent Prescott two books: Kobe Bryant’s The Mamba Mentality: How I Play and Tim Grover’s Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable, with a single message: “What would Kobe do?”

Key Takeaways

Kobe Bryant’s Mamba Mentality drives athletes like Dak Prescott and Saquon Barkley to face injuries with focus, discipline, and resilience.
NFL players apply Bryant’s mindset of obsessive improvement and emotional strength to both their physical recovery and personal growth.
Bryant’s legacy endures through his 2018 book The Mamba Mentality: How I Play, which continues to guide athletes toward excellence in sport and life.

The Creation of the Mamba Mentality

In April 2013, Kobe Bryant tore his Achilles tendon during a game against the Golden State Warriors. Refusing to quit, he made two free throws before walking off the court. Later, he called the injury “my personal Mount Everest.”

At 34 years old, Bryant underwent an intense recovery, returning to play three more seasons. On April 13, 2016, exactly three years and one day later, he ended his career with 60 points at the Staples Center.

His longtime trainer, Tim Grover, who also trained Michael Jordan, said, “The process and the mentality of what you do after you get injured can be either the best or the worst thing that’s ever happened to you.”

On January 26, 2020, Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna, and seven others — John, Keri, and Alyssa Altobelli; Sarah and Payton Chester; Christina Mauser; and pilot Ara Zobayan — died in a helicopter crash near Los Angeles. Even after his death, his mindset remains a model for perseverance.

How NFL Players Live the Mamba Mentality

Bryant’s mindset did not stop with basketball. It carried over into other sports, motivating professional athletes to approach challenges with his same focus, discipline, and resilience. Several NFL players have lived out this philosophy through their own moments of adversity, showing that the Mamba Mentality is a universal approach to perseverance.

Saquon Barkley: “Kill Everything in the Way”

Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants writes “Mamba Mentality” at the top of every notebook. After tearing his ACL in 2020, Barkley deleted nearly all his Instagram posts except a tribute to Bryant. His surgery, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles, was handled by the same doctor who repaired Bryant’s Achilles tendon.

While recovering, Barkley said, “When you have that mindset, the work ethic, the dedication, you could achieve anything in this world.” Confined to bed for six weeks, he spent his nights watching Bryant’s interviews, drawing strength from every word. When asked to describe his mentality, Barkley answered, “Kill everything in the way.”

Richard Sherman: The Lesson of Patience

When Richard Sherman tore his Achilles tendon near the end of the 2017 season, he refused assistance and walked off the field. “I saw him do it,” Sherman said during Super Bowl LIV’s media night, one day after Bryant’s death. “I saw him make two free throws and walk off with a torn Achilles. And once I tore mine, I knew I had to walk off.”

The next day, Bryant called and told him to stay strong. Sherman later cited Kobe’s advice from a 2019 Knuckleheads podcast, “Don’t look at the top of the mountain. Focus on one step at a time.”

Sherman followed that mindset in rehab, competing against himself each day to improve. In 2019, at age 31, he returned wearing Kobe-branded Nike cleats and earned second-team All-Pro honors.

Derek Carr: “Failure Is Not an Option”

Derek Carr, quarterback of the Las Vegas Raiders, broke his leg on December 24, 2016. Bryant tweeted to him, “Come back better than ever.”

Carr, a lifelong fan from Bakersfield, California, named his dog Kobe, kept a “Mamba Mentality” poster in his gym, and wore a sleeve to honor Bryant in 2020. He later said, “Kobe Bryant is the reason that I played when I broke the three bones in my back… and the reason I played with a broken finger. Failure is not an option.”

Logan Ryan: Discipline in Every Role

After his 2018 leg fracture, Logan Ryan restructured his days to fit in three workouts. He woke at 4 a.m. to train before spending time with his children. The next year, he became the third NFL player in the 21st century to record at least four interceptions, four sacks, and four forced fumbles in a single season.

In the 2019 playoffs, Ryan intercepted Tom Brady’s final pass as a New England Patriot and returned it for a touchdown, ending the team’s era with Brady. “That’s what the Mamba Mentality is about,” he said. “It’s how I wake up and am as a husband… attentive and alert and there for my wife and kids. It’s trying to be my best in every aspect.”

Dak Prescott: Recovery and Reflection

Following his October 2020 injury, Prescott faced both physical and personal challenges. His brother Jace had died by suicide in April 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Before his injury, Prescott had thrown for over 450 yards in three consecutive games and scored eight touchdowns from weeks 2–4. During rehab, he adopted Grover’s all-or-nothing philosophy, “The Mamba Mentality means to get on your dark side… Feed off that.”

He returned in September 2021, throwing for 403 yards and three touchdowns against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the reigning Super Bowl champions.

He also recalled a near meeting with Bryant at a Newport Beach steakhouse in January 2020. Out of respect, he declined an introduction, believing they would meet another time—his rental home was less than a mile from Bryant’s. A week later, the crash occurred. “Hey, this is a guy that we all can admire in the ways that he lived and the way that he played the game,” Prescott said. “I’m going to just do that as much as I can.”

The Black Mamba Persona and Its Origins

Bryant’s “Black Mamba” alter ego came from Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004). In the movie, a character finds a black mamba in a suitcase, and Daryl Hannah’s character calls the snake “death incarnate.” Bryant said, “This is a perfect description of how I would want my game to be.”

The persona appeared during a tumultuous time. In July 2003, Bryant was arrested and charged with felony sexual assault after a 19-year-old hotel employee in Edwards, Colorado, accused him of rape. He first denied any sexual contact, later saying it was consensual. The medical exam revealed a bruise on her jaw and vaginal lacerations. The charges were dropped in September 2004 when the woman declined to testify. In March 2005, Bryant and the woman settled a civil case with a nondisclosure agreement. Bryant stated, “I now understand how she feels that she did not consent to this encounter.”

He later said that adopting the Black Mamba identity helped him separate public perception from personal reality. “You have to enter every activity… with a want and need to do it to the best of your ability,” he wrote. “The mindset isn’t about seeking a result. It’s about the process… It’s a way of life.”

Best Montclair Restaurants That Deserve a Spot on Your List

Moses Lookman

November 11, 2025

Montclair, New Jersey, is more than just a regular suburb. It’s the leading character of the culinary scene and the star of the culinary show. The town’s artistic side, community, and total devotion to gastronomy are represented in every step of the dining out experience in Montclair.

Bold chefs, seasonal menus, and food that’s appreciated as both art and communication characterize Montclair restaurants. There are very few towns that offer such a wide range of culinary experiences, from an elegant dinner to a laid-back brunch or even a taste of the exotic.

Why Montclair Is New Jersey’s Culinary Capital

A Town That Loves Its Food

Montclair is one of the few places in New Jersey that celebrates food in such an extravagant way. The diversity of the community and the creative energy have turned the town into a haven for chefs, bakers, and even the most passionate food entrepreneurs.

The locals are very supportive of the small businesses, which in turn have made Montclair’s restaurants famous beyond the town limits.

Montclair’s dining scene has earned a rare reputation for being quality, innovative, and authentic at the same time. It has been regularly featured on the New Jersey Monthly’s Top 30 lists and has received critical acclaim.

The restaurants and bakeries are all different in style, yet they each epitomize the distinctive character of their proprietors. Whether it’s a multi-course tasting menu or just a great taco on a sun-drenched patio, you’re sharing in the town’s age-old passion for food.

From Fine Dining to Hidden Cafes

The main reason why Montclair’s dining scene is the cherry on top of New Jersey’s gourmet attractions is its wide range to suit every taste and mood. The local food landscape is a colorful mix of different styles and people.

One evening, you could be dining at a posh restaurant with white tablecloths. Next, you’re having a laid-back snack at a little diner or a buzzing noodle shop.

Michelin-star chefs share the same spotlight with mom-and-pop bakeries and mayors’ always-neighborhood staples. The power of diversity among students from Montclair State, local artists, and lifelong residents has created a vibrant scene where creativity and tradition live side by side.

But then again, the best Montclair restaurants, whether you’re having an espresso shot at a European-style café or trying out various global street food, reflect the town’s open-minded, inventive spirit. It’s this mix of refinement and ease that makes Montclair one of the most beloved food destinations in New Jersey.

A Blend of Tradition & Innovation

The most attractive aspect of Montclair’s food scene is its seamless combination of tradition and modernity. The most well-known and beloved eateries, such as Raymond’s and Fascino, continue to thrive with their consistently high quality. The latest additions, such as Faubourg and Brick Dough, set the threshold higher with not only their fine menus but also the modern, stylish ambiance of their restaurants.

A lot of Montclair eateries pay loyalty to traditional family recipes. However, they’re more creative in considering the dishes. Just take the truffle butter that’s tossed with handmade pasta, or sushi rolls that come only with local produce, or plant-based dishes that are as rich as they are crafty. This constant fight between antiquity and modernity is what gives Montclair’s culinary nature its uniqueness.

In large part, Montclair’s food scene can be viewed as a process of continual change. The top eateries in the area have a never-ending quest for creating, which is why food enthusiasts are always circling.

A lot of different and exciting things await to be uncovered, as every season brings fresh tastes, daring concepts, and unforgettable dinners that turn Montclair into a haven for adventurous eaters.

The Best Restaurants in Montclair NJ

The best restaurants in Montclair, NJ, are marked with such features as artistic expression, skilled work, and a charm that’s hard to ignore. It’s possible to find not only upscale Italian restaurants but also vibrant brasseries and international comfort food. Nothing is lacking in the town’s dining scene, which is as varied and alive as the town itself.

Gioia Mia

Locals were heartbroken when Montclair favorite Fascino closed after 20 years. That is, until Gioia Mia opened in its place. Co-owned by two former Fascino employees, this cozy Italian restaurant quickly won over diners with its warm leather booths, soft lighting, and relaxed vibe.

The menu balances comfort and creativity, from perfectly roasted oysters to scallops served over saffron seafood paella with a hint of sweet sundried tomato. Known for its authentic, approachable Italian fare and thoughtful vegan options, Gioia Mia is a must-visit. Just be sure to book ahead, because the locals already know how good it is.

Faubourg

Faubourg, a modern brasserie that adds a layer of Parisian chic to Bloomfield Avenue, is one of the remarkable places on Montclair’s dining scene. The restaurant, which occupies a stunningly renovated industrial locale, combines traditional French cooking with the use of fresh and local ingredients.

The serving of duck confit, steak frites, and crème brûlée on the menu shows the restaurant’s heady ambitions in a simple manner.

The outdoor patio of Faubourg, which is generously spacious, is open as soon as the sun is out. The inviting place is decorated with bright string lights and filled with laughter and conversation.

Faubourg’s elegant menu, friendly service, and effortlessly chic atmosphere make it a place for both special occasion dinners and spur-of-the-moment dining.

Turtle + The Wolf

Chef Lauren Hirschberg’s Turtle The Wolf is a love letter to the cooking techniques based on local and seasonal products. This modern American gem places its focus on community and quality, bringing to the table mouthwatering roast chicken, delicate short ribs, and imaginative veggie sides sourced from local farms and reliable producers.

Turtle The Wolf is a winner for those who are dying for pure, divine, and up-to-date with a twist on modern food, thanks to its changing-with-the-seasons menu and a strong commitment to sustainability.

Halcyon Brasserie

For seafood aficionados, Halcyon Brasserie is an exceptional choice in Montclair’s gastronomy. Along with its elegant setting and ocean-themed menu, it provides a wide variety of mouthwatering seafood delights such as fresh oysters, lobster rolls, expertly seared scallops, and grilled salmon.

Hidden Gems & Underrated Spots Worth Discovering

Montclair is well-known for its theatrical culinary attractions and fancy restaurants, but probably the most memorable of its meals are those served in obscurity and small places. These very places that are slightly visible and small are representatives of the Mt. food culture.

Vegan & Vegetarian Favorites

The plant-based dining scene in Montclair is flourishing, indicative of the town’s forward-thinking and health-conscious mindset. A visit to Bareburger will introduce you to a fun combination of organic veggie burgers, vegan shakes, and inventive salads, while Mesob goes much further, presenting intelligent, ethically sourced plates that even die-hard carnivores can approve of. These places are living proof that plant-based eating in Montclair is fun and not at all tedious.

Cozy Cafés & Brunch Spots

In Montclair brunch isn’t just a meal, it’s practically a weekend ritual. The town’s cafés and brunch spots overflow with charm, creativity, and comfort, proving that casual dining can be just as inspired as fine dining.

Start your morning at Red Eye Café, a beloved local hangout where strong espresso meets hearty breakfast classics like avocado toast and sweet potato hash. For a touch of Southern comfort, Raymond’s is a Montclair institution, its bustling atmosphere and indulgent brunch staples like brioche French toast and eggs Benedict never disappoint.

Exploring Montclair’s Neighborhood Food Scene

Eating in Montclair is a combination of the food and the atmosphere. The different neighborhoods create different moods, the lively energy of Bloomfield Avenue’s restaurant row and the cozy, family-friendly charm of Upper Montclair’s side streets. In every place, the atmosphere contributes something extra to the enjoyment of the food.

Bloomfield Avenue

Bloomfield Avenue is the center of Montclair’s restaurant life, a lively street crowded with restaurants offering different cuisines, chic bistros, and the best-loved eateries in the area for years. The buzzing street not only lets you enjoy French haute cuisine at Faubourg, have a light Mediterranean meal, or treat yourself to some Japanese sushi, but it also emphasizes the great variety of foods that Montclair’s restaurants are proud of.

Why Locals Love Montclair Restaurants

Community-Driven Dining

The thing that really makes Montclair’s eateries stand out is the close relationship with the community. The chefs in the area don’t only prepare meals; they also create for their closest ones. Many even take pride in getting their raw materials from local farms and artisans, thereby supporting an already alive and kicking community of growers, bakers, and makers. It’s food with a history, and that can be felt in every bite.

Beyond Food

Eating out in Montclair isn’t only about delicious dishes but also the atmosphere that accompanies them.

Do not rush home after dinner. Instead, meander through the downtown area, where murals, indie shops, and live music will add sweet sounds to your night. Every outing seems a little festivity owing to street performers, shining terraces, and lovely shops.

A Flavorful Journey Through Montclair

Montclair isn’t just a town with an excellent dining scene but a shining star in the dining universe that‌ mirrors the traits of diversity, creativity, and community. A café in a bookstore, a daring fusion restaurant, or a local Aussie bar that feels like home, the latter being the most common, are the things that you’ll probably encounter at every corner. It’s the diversity in flavors and tales that makes Montclair one of a kind.

No matter if you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, just remember to come with an appetite and a spirit of discovery. Discover the tastes, experience the charm, and take it all in, because Montclair’s restaurants not only serve food but also serve the spirit of one of New Jersey’s most vibrant and inspiring communities.

Mets’ Edwin Díaz, Pete Alonso Opt Out of Contracts, Enter Free Agency

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 10, 2025

On November 3, 2025, both closer Edwin Díaz and first baseman Pete Alonso opted out of their contracts, officially becoming free agents. The decisions came after a disappointing year in which the Mets, under owner Steve Cohen, missed the playoffs in Juan Soto’s first season with the club.

The announcements were confirmed within hours of each other. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that “Edwin Díaz has opted out of his deal with the Mets,” followed by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, who confirmed, “Pete Alonso has opted out.”

Key Takeaways

Both Edwin Díaz and Pete Alonso opted out of their contracts, making them free agents after the Mets’ underwhelming 2025 season.
Díaz turned down $38 million over two years, aiming for a long-term deal surpassing the $72 million benchmark set by Tanner Scott’s Dodgers contract.
The Mets plan to pursue both players aggressively, but the team’s huge payroll and Soto’s historic contract could affect what they do next.

Díaz Turns Down $38 Million for Free Agency Opportunity

Díaz declined the final two years and $38 million of his deal, becoming a free agent for the first time. Acquired from the Seattle Mariners in a December 2018 trade, he has been one of the Mets’ most dominant relievers. After a rough debut season, he rebounded with elite performances in 2020 and 2022, leading to a five-year, $102 million contract before 2023, the largest ever signed by a relief pitcher.

That deal began poorly when Díaz tore the patellar tendon in his right knee during the 2023 World Baseball Classic, costing him the entire season. He returned in 2024 and excelled in 2025 with 28 saves, a 1.63 ERA, and 62 appearances, raising his Mets totals to 144 saves and a 2.93 ERA over 332 games. At 31 years old, Díaz is expected to command a contract exceeding Tanner Scott’s four-year, $72 million deal with the Dodgers last offseason.

The Mets want him back, but may face a bidding war. “The Mets want to keep Díaz,” Heyman reported, “but that doesn’t mean they’ll be the highest bidder.” Under MLB’s qualifying offer system, the team can offer him $22.02 million for one year. If he declines, any signing team must forfeit a draft pick, a deterrent that could favor the Mets in negotiations.

Betting Markets Reflect Stability Despite Opt-Outs

In the days following Díaz’s and Alonso’s opt-outs, sportsbooks maintained steady confidence in the Mets’ potential for 2026. FanDuel lists the Mets at +1100, keeping them within the top six betting favorites. BetMGM posts odds at +1400, while Caesars and DraftKings both opened the Mets at +1500.

These odds, posted between November 2–4 immediately after the World Series, remain unchanged since the announcements. Analysts from Action Network and Covers note that bookmakers expect owner Steve Cohen to spend aggressively, while the qualifying offer draft-pick penalty may discourage other teams from outbidding the Mets for Díaz.

No “next team” player markets exist for Díaz or Alonso on regulated U.S. books, but betting volume on Mets futures has stayed consistent. Caesars and DraftKings’ +1500 lines represent the best available value, while FanDuel’s +1100 reflects continued market confidence in the Mets’ financial power and roster depth.

Alonso Declines Final Year After Record Season

Pete Alonso also opted out of his contract, declining the final year and $24 million owed to him. His choice was expected since he said during spring training that he wanted a longer contract after the season.

Alonso’s 2025 campaign was among the best of his career. Batting behind Juan Soto, he drove in 126 runs, a career high, and set the Mets’ all-time home run record. His production and durability continued to define his role as a lineup anchor and clubhouse leader. After the final game of the season, Alonso confirmed his decision to test the market, saying, “I’ve grown up here. This team means everything to me. But I want stability — a contract that reflects what I’ve given the game.”

The Mets are expected to pursue Alonso aggressively, but payroll limits will guide the discussions. The organization already carries significant financial commitments for 2026, largely driven by Soto’s contract and the team’s existing high-value deals.

Cohen’s Next Steps and the Mets’ Offseason Outlook

As the Mets head into the winter, their finances remain among the biggest in baseball. Owner Steve Cohen, the wealthiest in Major League Baseball, has consistently shown a willingness to spend, but the 2026 payroll is already among the league’s highest.

The club has made several early moves: A.J. Minter exercised his $11 million option after recovering from a torn left lat muscle; Brooks Raley’s $4.75 million option was picked up; Drew Smith’s $2 million option was declined; and Frankie Montas exercised his $17 million player option while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.

The bullpen remains a concern after the Ryan Helsley trade failed to improve results. If Díaz signs elsewhere, replacements could include Robert Suarez, Kenley Jansen, or Emilio Pagán, though none match his consistency or strikeout dominance.

Best Things to Do in Atlantic City, NJ, for Every Traveler

Moses Lookman

November 7, 2025

If you’re planning a coastal getaway packed with excitement, look no further than Atlantic City. This coastal town, with its boardwalks all over, sights of nature that take your breath away, and great entertainment, has everyone covered.

No matter if you’re attracted by the casinos’ excitement, the soothing ocean wind, or the range of Atlantic City attractions, you’ll never get bored in Atlantic City. The review of the guide covers all the things to do in Atlantic City and brings a view of the city from the early morning walks along the boardwalk to the night events that keep the vibe going.

Iconic Atlantic City Attractions You Can’t Miss

Among Atlantic City attractions, visitors can experience a rare mix of nostalgia and modern flair along the beachfront, something few other East Coast destinations can match. Its classic spots continue to attract both newcomers and longtime fans, showcasing exactly what makes this city so unique.

Visit the Absecon Lighthouse

Standing tall as the oldest lighthouse in New Jersey, among all the fun things to do in Atlantic City, NJ, the Absecon Lighthouse is all about history and spectacular views. Take the 228 steps to the top for an overview look at the Atlantic City skyline and the endless ocean beyond. This is one of the best things to do in Atlantic City.

The Atlantic City Beach Scene

If you’re looking for sun and surf, Atlantic City beaches are the perfect place to be, and the good news is, they’re free to enjoy. You can either lie in the sun, swim, or get surf lessons. Every beach has its own unique feel. Downtown Beach is always buzzing with city energy, and it’s the closest beach to the casinos and fancy restaurants.

The Atlantic City beaches really attract visitors, and the boardwalk is also quite lively in summer when it’s filled with live music and other events. No matter if you’re alone or with company, getting in touch with the beach community is still one of the most enjoyable things to do in AC for all seasons.

The Best Things to Do in Atlantic City for Adults

For sophistication and excitement, Atlantic City delivers. From luxurious casinos and rooftop bars to tranquil spas and seafront resorts, the possibilities of things to do in Atlantic City for adults go on and on and on.

Whether you’re in Atlantic City for the weekend or an extended escape, these Atlantic City activities hold out the promise of thrills, relaxation, and memorable moments. If you have all this while trying to decide what to do in Atlantic City at night, this section is your overall guide.

Enjoy Atlantic City’s Electric Nightlife

When the lights go down, the city springs to life in an entirely new manner. The nightlife is among the most exciting Atlantic City experiences, with anything from beach bars to high-rise rooftop lounges. Begin your night at The VÜE Rooftop Bar & Lounge for breathtaking ocean views and crafted cocktails, and then go to HQ2 Nightclub within the Ocean Casino Resort for top-shelf DJs and dancing that goes deep into the night.

Visit Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena or The Comedy Stop to see shows by world-renowned performers. Want to dance the night away, drink with friends, or relax at the ocean’s edge? Atlantic City’s nightclubs are justifiable cause for grown-ups to fall in love with the city. For things to do in Atlantic City today, check out the latest club listings.

Making the Most of Your Atlantic City Trip

From world-class casinos to tranquil beaches, there’s no lack of activities to do in Atlantic City, NJ, but the city’s real personality comes out when you move off the beaten path. After the glamour of gaming halls and the sparkle of the boardwalk, Atlantic City brings a rich cultural blend of culture, restaurants, and ocean allure, from live music on the beach and fresh seafood at the marina to art galleries and history.

To get the most out of your vacation, create an even balance between days of sun and beach fun during the day, sightseeing at area treasures like the Absecon Lighthouse, and dynamic nighttimes of dining or shows.

Over 1M Votes Cast as Sherrill and Ciattarelli Battle in Close NJ Governor Race

Moses Lookman

November 7, 2025

New Jersey’s governor race closed with a busy final day as Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli moved across the state to reach last-minute voters. With over one million ballots already submitted by mail and through early voting, both campaigns aimed to secure every possible supporter before polls opened. The contest drew national attention as one of only two gubernatorial elections happening in the country this year, and polling showed only a small gap separating the candidates, including one survey showing a virtual tie.

Key Takeaways

Over one million New Jersey voters have already cast ballots in person or by mail, and polls show the race is extremely close.
Former President Barack Obama campaigned with Democrat Mikie Sherrill, while former President Donald Trump backed Republican Jack Ciattarelli in a tele-rally.
Both candidates focused on affordability, public safety, and state policy, while making sharp contrasts on immigration, taxes, and government role.

Sherrill Travels Across the State, Calls for Stability and Fairness

Sherrill, a congresswoman and former naval officer, completed her 21-county bus tour on Monday. She visited Union City and Morristown before ending her night in Montclair, speaking to supporters beside her campaign bus and urging people to remind friends, neighbors, and even “frenemies” to vote. She pointed to New Jersey’s long record of supporting civil rights and said her work centered on families, children, and equal opportunity.

Over the weekend, former President Barack Obama joined her at a rally. On Monday night, former President Donald Trump joined a tele-rally for Ciattarelli and made a remark about Sherrill’s first name, along with an online post warning of what he called high crime, rising energy costs, and other consequences he linked to Democrats. Sherrill did not address those comments and instead focused on her plans for the office.

She said she planned to freeze utility rate increases on day one and participate in a tariff lawsuit she argued would protect small businesses. She also said she would require ICE officers to show identification when making arrests, referencing what she described as police reports about individuals dressed as if heading to Afghanistan and refusing to present ID. Sherrill stated she does not support detention centers and discussed investment in transit and health care, including in South Jersey, where she aims to regain support after losses in the last election. She stated she would “run through the tape” to gather every vote.

Ciattarelli Focuses on Taxes, Crime Policies, and State Direction

Ciattarelli began Monday at Murph’s Tavern in Totowa, a Republican-leaning community. During the event, his son Jake, who serves in the Middle East, arrived unannounced to greet him. Ciattarelli said the race is about New Jersey’s future, arguing his opponent tried to connect the campaign to national politics.

This matchup is his third run for governor, following a close finish against Governor Phil Murphy four years ago. Ciattarelli said the enthusiasm this time felt even stronger than during that near-win.

He laid out plans to reduce the size of state government, lower property and income taxes for residents and businesses, and cut electricity bills by reversing what he called Phil Murphy’s carbon tax policies. He also said he would remove cashless bail, appoint a new attorney general to ensure school districts cannot keep information from parents, and issue an executive order on day one to block sanctuary policies. He stated that no town in New Jersey would be permitted to become a sanctuary city, and the state would not be a sanctuary state.

Ciattarelli later campaigned in Raritan, where he grew up, saying South Jersey would not be overlooked in his plans. He said he spent a lot of time campaigning there and that the region would not be treated as second to any other part of the state.

Voters Call Out Costs, Safety, and Representation

Voters voiced concerns that mirrored the campaign themes. One resident said their electricity bill doubled over the summer and supported Ciattarelli’s plan to exit the carbon emissions program. Another questioned why New Jersey is often ranked first in property taxes, car insurance, and health insurance costs.

Sherrill supporters pointed to her steady style and concern for people. One resident from Wharton said they are a trans person and wanted to remain visible in politics. Another voter said they attended a Sherrill event after seeing her appear with Obama and wanted to offer encouragement and prayers.

Max Fried Claims Fourth Gold Glove in First Year With Yankees

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 6, 2025

Max Fried Claims Fourth Career Gold Glove Award

When the New York Yankees signed Max Fried in December 2024 to an eight-year, $218 million contract, the largest deal ever given to a left-handed pitcher, they expected a complete performer on the mound. In 2025, he met that expectation by excelling as both a pitcher and defender.

Fried, 31, earned the 2025 American League Rawlings Gold Glove Award for pitchers. It is his fourth career Gold Glove and his first as a Yankee, following three straight wins with the Atlanta Braves from 2020 through 2022. He joined Ron Guidry (1982–86), Mike Mussina (2001, ’03, ’08), and Bobby Shantz (1957–60) as Yankees pitchers to win the award.

Key Takeaways

Max Fried won his fourth career Gold Glove and his first with the Yankees after leading MLB pitchers with 10 defensive runs saved in 2025.
He posted a league-best 19 wins, a 2.86 ERA, and 189 strikeouts, proving why New York gave him the biggest contract ever for a left-handed pitcher.
Despite a mid-season blister setback and a seven-start slump, Fried finished strong and is set to anchor the Yankees’ 2026 rotation alongside rising arm Cam Schlittler.

Defensive Precision and On-Field Command

Fried led all Major League pitchers with 10 defensive runs saved, finishing three ahead of every other pitcher, and recorded seven pickoffs, second in the Majors behind Matthew Boyd’s 11. He also posted 39 putouts and 39 assists while allowing only six stolen bases. His fielding percentage was .925. Although he committed a career-high four errors, his defensive performance earned him the 2025 Sports Info Fielding Bible Award for best defensive pitcher before the Gold Glove announcement.

Fried’s command extended to the running game, where he consistently controlled baserunners with an effective pickoff move. He routinely handled comebackers and bunt attempts and displayed consistent awareness on the mound throughout the season.

Performance and Market Outlook

Fried led MLB with 19 wins and finished 19-5 with a .792 winning percentage. Over 195.1 innings in 32 starts, he recorded a 2.86 ERA and a career-high 189 strikeouts. His fielding and pitching output reinforced the Yankees’ expectation when they signed him to the richest left-handed pitcher contract in MLB history.

This level of performance also affected early betting markets for 2026. After the Dodgers won the 2025 World Series, sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars, opened Los Angeles as the top favorite for 2026. The Yankees opened second. Book listings placed the Dodgers around +350 to +375 and New York between +700 and +800, depending on the sportsbook.

Fried also appeared in Cy Young discussions during stretches of 2025. At one point during the season, he was listed around +750 in betting markets. By late September, he remained listed with betting interest before odds moved as other pitchers closed the season strong. A late-season board snapshot showed Fried at +10000 among award listings as ballots awaited announcement. He was not among the finalists for the award, which were Garrett Crochet, Tarik Skubal, and Hunter Brown. Books are expected to repost Cy Young odds later this winter.

Rotation Stability and Midseason Challenge

The season was not without challenges. Fried entered the All-Star break with a dominant 1.92 ERA but missed the Midsummer Classic due to a blister. After returning, he endured a seven-start stretch with a 6.00 ERA, stirring questions about durability before regaining form down the stretch. He finished 19–5 with a .792 winning percentage, the highest in MLB, and remained a consistent presence in a pitching staff missing Gerrit Cole all season due to elbow surgery.

Team Chemistry And Growing Leadership

The Yankees also saw Fried’s leadership expand. After acquiring third baseman Ryan McMahon at the trade deadline, Fried praised his defensive hunger and intensity.

“He wants the ball,” Fried said in September. “He tells me every day, ‘Get me the ball. Get me as much as you can today.’ When you have someone over there, that’s really excited about fielding the ball and being a part of it, the plays he makes take a lot of pressure off of you. I am really happy that he’s over there.”

McMahon was a 2025 Gold Glove finalist but was edged out by Cincinnati’s Ke’Bryan Hayes. Still, his defensive presence was a meaningful addition for Fried and the pitching staff.

Josh Hart Discloses Hand Nerve Damage, Delays Surgery to Keep Playing

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 6, 2025

New York Knicks forward Josh Hart has confirmed that the hand issue he has been fighting is far more serious than he first believed, revealing nerve damage throughout his entire right shooting hand, not just in a single finger. The problem affects his fourth finger the most, but also causes his middle and pinky fingers to lose feeling throughout games and even in daily tasks like typing or picking things up.

“My nerve hasn’t fully gotten back to what it was before,” Hart said. “There’s a little bit of tingling, a little bit of numbness in part of my hand. Hopefully, at some point, that nerve will get back, hopefully sooner rather than later. Right now, it’s a process.”

Key Takeaways

Josh Hart says he has nerve damage in his whole shooting hand, causing numbness in the fourth, middle, and pinky fingers.
Doctors recommended a surgery that would sideline him for two to three months, but Hart plans to wait until after the season.
The injury led to a slow start, a new role off the bench, and adaptation under new Knicks head coach Mike Brown.

Injury Timeline and Delayed Surgery Decision

Hart originally injured the hand during last season’s playoff run. He had surgery in July after the Knicks’ postseason ended and spent the summer recovering, only to reinjure the hand during a pickup session before training camp. He reached for the ball on defense, felt sharp pain, and doctors again recommended surgery that would sideline him for two to three months. With high team expectations, Hart decided to delay the procedure.

“It’ll probably be a process until I get full feeling back,” he said. “The hand will be what it is. I’m working (on shooting) all the time. That’ll come along. I’m not getting surgery.”

Betting Markets React to Injury and Early Season Results

The Knicks opened the season following an Eastern Conference Finals appearance, and sportsbooks positioned them among the league’s top contenders. As Hart played through the injury, betting markets adjusted his player props while maintaining strong futures pricing for the team.

FanDuel listed the Knicks at +1100 to win the NBA title. Across major operators tracked on a Vegas-based odds screen, New York ranged between +850 and +1300. On ESPN’s futures board, the Knicks were +330 to win the Eastern Conference. New York was also posted as the -180 favorite to win the Atlantic Division and +1600 to win the NBA In-Season Tournament.

Sportsbooks lowered expectations for Hart’s individual offensive output. Recent player-prop closing lines placed his points total between 7.5 and 9.5 and his points-plus-assists line between 10.5 and 13.5, reflecting measured scoring and playmaking projections as he plays through numbness and adjusting usage.

Game markets indicated continued confidence in the Knicks overall. For the Nov. 3 matchup against Washington, New York closed as a -12.5 favorite with a 234.5 total. For the Nov. 5 home game against Minnesota at Madison Square Garden, odds boards listed the matchup ahead of posting final pricing.

Performance Timeline and Role Adjustment

After appearing briefly in New York’s preseason opener in Abu Dhabi, Josh Hart was sidelined for the rest of exhibition play due to a back problem, and the same issue forced him to miss the Knicks’ first regular-season game. Once he returned, his opening stretch produced 11 total points on 4-of-19 shooting, including 1-for-10 from beyond the arc across his first four outings.

Hart delivered a stronger showing on October 31, 2025, when New York defeated the Chicago Bulls 128-116 at the United Center to halt a three-game losing skid. In that matchup, he finished with 14 points and nine rebounds.

“For me, I’m going through some adversity myself, physically and mentally, so my biggest thing today was going out there and playing with energy,” he said. “Just getting back to being myself.”

Jalen Brunson, who led New York with 31 points, acknowledged the performance.

“I saw Josh Hart,” Brunson said. “The one we know and love.”

Despite shooting 1-for-4 from three in that contest, Hart delivered his most productive outing of the season to that point.

Role Adjustment Under Mike Brown

Now playing under new head coach Mike Brown, Hart has moved into a full-time bench role after previously starting under Tom Thibodeau. Rather than expressing frustration, he has embraced the change and the uncertainty that comes with it.

“I’m cool with not starting,” Hart said. “That’s what I want to do for the season. For me, there’s a different way to approach it mentally. Obviously, when you have guys who are questionable and a game-time decision, then my role might be different and I might not know what my role is until there’s an hour on the clock or 35 minutes on the clock.”

Brown praised Hart’s effort and ability to fight through discomfort, while saying that he wasn’t initially aware of the full extent of the nerve issue.

“That’s news to me,” Brown said. “[VP of Sports Medicine] Casey [Smith] has handled as best he can, and Josh has, too. He had 14 and 9 tonight, so if he’s healthy, ‘Oh my gosh. Look out.’ He’s playing fine. Again, he’s missed a lot of time, so he’s playing catch-up, and he’s doing a heck of a job playing catch-up for us.”

Tiger Woods’ Journey: The Life and Career of Golf’s Biggest Star

Paulius Kundzelevicius

November 6, 2025

Tiger Woods was born on December 30, 1975, in Cypress, California. He is the son of an African American father and a Thai mother. He began playing golf at a very young age. At two years old, he appeared on television swinging a golf club. At three, he shot 48 for nine holes and putted on The Mike Douglas Show against Bob Hope.

In 1991, at age 15, Woods became the youngest U.S. Junior Amateur champion. He then won three straight U.S. Amateur Championships from 1994 to 1996, coming from six holes behind to win his first title. He enrolled at Stanford University in 1994, won the 1996 collegiate title, and turned professional on August 29, 1996, after earning his third U.S. Amateur win.

Key Takeaways

Tiger Woods won 15 major championships, including 5 Masters, 4 PGA Championships, 3 U.S. Opens, and 3 Open Championships, tying the all-time PGA Tour win record with 82 victories.
He achieved historic milestones, including the 1997 Masters win by 12 strokes, the 2000 U.S. Open win by 15 strokes, and the Tiger Slam in 2001, holding all four major titles at once.
Woods faced serious challenges such as injuries, surgeries, and personal issues, but made one of sports’ greatest comebacks by winning the 2019 Masters at age 43, his first major since 2008.

Breakthrough Professional Debut in 1996

In 1996, Woods played eight PGA Tour events, won 2, and earned the PGA Tour Rookie of the Year award. His long drives routinely traveled more than 300 yards, and his short game and mental toughness quickly elevated him among professionals. Nike positioned him as the face of a golf marketing shift, and their partnership lasted 27 years until 2024.

In 1997, Woods won the Masters in historic fashion. At Augusta National, he shot 270 across 72 holes and won by 12 strokes, the largest margin in tournament history at the time. He became the first golfer of African American or Asian descent to win the Masters.

Peak Dominance and the Tiger Slam (1999–2002)

In 1999, Woods won eight PGA tournaments, becoming the first golfer in more than 20 years to reach that total. His six consecutive PGA Tour wins from 1999 to 2000 tied Ben Hogan’s 1948 run and trailed only Byron Nelson’s record of 11.

At the 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach, Woods won by 15 strokes, shooting 65-69-71-67 (272, −12), the largest margin in a major. On July 23, 2000, at St Andrews, he became the youngest player to complete the career Grand Slam, winning by eight strokes at −19 (269).

He defended the Masters title in 2002, becoming only the third golfer to do so. This run included the 2001 Masters, where he completed the Tiger Slam—holding the Masters, U.S. Open, Open Championship, and PGA Championship titles simultaneously.

Full Breakdown of Tiger Woods’ 15 Major Championship Victories

Below is a full list of Tiger Woods’ 15 major championships: five Masters titles, four PGA Championships, three U.S. Open wins, and three Open Championship wins.

Masters Tournament Wins (5)

1997 – 270, won by 12, youngest champion, first non-white winner
2001 – 70-66-68-68 (−16), won by 2 over David Duval; completed Tiger Slam
2002 – −12, won by 3; tied-7 after round one, tied-4 entering the weekend
2005 – Won in a playoff over Chris DiMarco after tying at 276
2019 – 70-68-67-70 (−13), won by 1 at age 43, first major since 2008

PGA Championship Wins (4)

1999, Medinah – −11, won by 1 over Sergio García
2000, Valhalla – −18, beat Bob May in a playoff
2006, Medinah – −18, won by 5 over Shaun Micheel
2007, Southern Hills – −8, won by 2, included a 63 in round two

U.S. Open Wins (3)

2000, Pebble Beach – 272 (−12), won by 15
2002, Bethpage Black – 277 (−3), only player under par, won by 3 over Phil Mickelson
2008, Torrey Pines – Won after 18-hole playoff and sudden-death vs Rocco Mediate

Open Championship Wins (3)

2000, St Andrews – 269 (−19), won by 8
2005, St Andrews – 274 (−14), wire-to-wire, won by 5 over Colin Montgomerie
2006, Royal Liverpool – −18, won after rounds of 67-65-71-67

Setbacks, Scandal, and Injury Years

In November 2009, after reports of an affair and a car collision near his Florida home, Woods stepped away from golf. In February 2010, he publicly said, “I was unfaithful. I had affairs. I cheated.” After this, several sponsors ended their partnerships with him, and he later divorced Elin Nordegren.

Not long after, he, unfortunately, faced serious injuries — Woods went through multiple back surgeries, including spinal fusion, and faced pain so severe that at one point he could not get out of bed or play with his children. His world ranking fell outside the top 1,100. In 2017, he was arrested for DUI linked to pain medications and later received professional help for his condition.

Return to Competition and Historic Comeback

Woods returned to play full-time in 2018. At the 2018 Tour Championship, he won by two strokes, ending a more than five-year PGA Tour win drought from 2013 to 2018.

In April 2019, he won the Masters again at 43, becoming the second-oldest champion behind Jack Nicklaus. Later that year, he won the Zozo Championship in Japan—his 82nd PGA Tour victory, tying Sam Snead’s all-time record.

Crash, Surgeries, and Attempts to Compete Again

In February 2021, at about 7 a.m. PT in Rancho Palos Verdes near Los Angeles, Woods’ SUV crossed a median, rolled through two lanes, hit a curb and a tree, and came to rest in brush. Deputies said he was calm, wearing a seatbelt, and able to tell them his name. First responders used a pry bar and an ax to free him, then sent him to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, where he had leg surgery for serious injuries.

Woods returned to competition at the 2022 Masters, where he made the cut. He later withdrew from the 2022 PGA Championship after the third round and missed the cut at the 2022 Open. In 2023, he withdrew during the Masters due to injury.

In 2024, Woods made a record 24th straight cut at the Masters, though he struggled afterward. That year, he had his sixth back surgery in September 2024, and six months later, he ruptured his left Achilles tendon while training.

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