On this episode of Yesterday in Sports, Chris Horwedel recaps a massive day across NBA free agency, the World Cup, MLB, Wimbledon, and NFL rumors. The show opens with LeBron James reportedly leaving the Los Angeles Lakers after eight seasons, setting up one of the biggest late-career decisions in NBA history. Chris breaks down possible fits like Golden State, Cleveland, Miami, and San Antonio, while explaining why the Lakers now have to pivot away from the player who defined their post-Kobe era.
The NBA coverage continues with Kawhi Leonard reportedly returning to the Toronto Raptors in a blockbuster trade centered around Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, multiple first-round picks, a pick swap, and second-rounders. Chris looks at what Kawhi’s return would mean for Toronto, why the Clippers are moving on from the Kawhi-Paul George era, and how the NBA’s new salary cap, apron numbers, and July 6 signing date shape free agency.
At the World Cup, France moves into the last 16 with a dominant win over Sweden as Kylian Mbappé scores twice, tying Lionel Messi for the tournament scoring lead and moving within one goal of Messi’s career World Cup record. Norway also advances behind a late Erling Haaland winner over Ivory Coast, setting up a major Norway-Brazil matchup, while Mexico beats Ecuador to end a 40-year knockout-stage drought in front of a massive home crowd.
The show also covers Bryan Woo setting a Seattle Mariners home scoreless-innings record in a win over the Angels, Serena Williams returning to Wimbledon singles at 44, Ben Shelton’s tough five-set first-round loss, and a developing NFL report around C.J. Stroud’s paused contract extension talks with the Houston Texans.