Well Played

EDITOR’S NOTE

As a lifelong New Yorker, before tonight's NBA Finals Game 4, I’m taking a page from those trying to clear the vibes outside Madison Square Garden and cleansing my lucky Knicks T-shirt. Can't hurt. My nerves are higher than this reporter's hand during an interview with Victor Wembanyama. And while I don't want to revisit the controversy around Game 3 officiating, I will say that seeing how uncomfortable Wemby looked on a New York City park bench felt like payback for the Spurs ending this perfect, viral sports mantra prematurely. But with tip-off just hours away, I'm in need of a confidence boost — and last night's delightfully chaotic USWNT-Brazil match delivered one. Between Emily Sonnett being Emily Sonnett and the way Trinity Rodman got up after being fouled harder than Jalen Brunson, which is saying a lot, I'll try to match their energy and realign the vibes. Now, on to the rest of the sports headlines...

— Mallory Simon / Writer / New York, New York

Let's Discuss

Our Cup Runneth Over

Here’s a thought: Part of the fun of an international tournament like the World Cup is the chance to adopt a team based on something other than your country of origin (especially for anyone who’s iffy on the US men's chances). If you're looking for a contender, consider their superstitions. It may not be odds-based, but it is fun. Defending champ Argentina and its fans are famously devoted to lucky traditions, including one very specific game-day snack. Another is a locker room lucky charm we won’t speak about here for karmic reasons. Meanwhile, Brazil tends to avoid kits in a certain color after a famously heartbreaking loss decades ago, and the team plane got a pretournament "baptism" before takeoff for New Jersey. (We'd hate to see their water bill.) Mexico brings some of the tournament's most beloved fan customs, and Portugal can always count on Cristiano Ronaldo's very specific daily routine.

Or follow the vibes: Maybe you're less interested in rituals and prefer to pick based on personality. Norway has nabbed some new fans with the full-on Viking-themed photo shoot the team had before they arrived in the US — we just hope the tanning Scandis packed plenty of SPF. Then there’s Paraguay, which is back at a World Cup for the first time in 16 years — and judging by the players’ send-off, they are ready. Consider this your final call to pick a side before your group chat picks one for you.

Related: One German World Cup Fan’s First Impressions of American Fast Food Are Going Viral (Atlanta News First: WANF)

Pick Six

More sports talkers you don't want to miss.

🏀 Page Six compared Timothée Chalamet’s Knicks game fit to a cartoon villain’s signature look, and now we can’t unsee it.

🥊 Before she showed off her pickleball skills, Angelina Jolie spent her weekend ringside at her son Knox's muay Thai match, per TMZ. Based on the photos, he inherited her action-star genes.

👀 The internet was understandably enraged at Simone Biles being referred to as a WAG rather than the GOAT… and the offender has already apologized.

🎾 Nearly four years away from the game, and even Serena Williams has a "wait, how does this work again?" moment that makes us love her even more.

🪩 Remember when splitting a party bus felt like a major financial commitment? Just wait till you hear about the prom budgets of college football's newest millionaires.

🏎️ Lewis Hamilton included Kim Kardashian when he celebrated his F1 podium in Monaco. She and her custom Gucci weren’t ready for it.

In Our Rotation

The World Cup starts tomorrow. If you’re scrambling for merch, we just found the best under-$30 accessory to help you support your team.

This workout tank with a built-in bra is so good, we’d wear it out to dinner with jeans and strappy heels.

Keep scrolling...more recs below

Timeout...

What's the scoop on the Stanley Cup if I'm just tuning in?

Yes, they still play hockey in June. And no, when I say Stanley Cup, I’m not talking about your favorite water tumbler. This year’s Final feels a bit like good versus evil. Most of the country seems to have adopted the Carolina Hurricanes, who haven’t won it all in 20 years and boast lovable young star Seth Jarvis, whose candy obsession and loyal group of Canadian friends have made him a fan favorite. Then there are the Vegas Golden Knights, arguably the NHL’s most disliked team thanks to their rapid success, aggressive front-office moves, salary-cap drama, and snarky social media presence. So if you’ve loved your hockey shows and want to see the real thing, tune in to Game 5 of the Final tomorrow night.

Featured Expert

Lily Shimbashi

Lily Shimbashi, founder and CEO of Sportsish and Well Played guest-host, tackles listener Qs.

On Our Calendar

Thursday, June 11

⚽ FIFA World Cup kicks off

The epic tournament starts with Mexico v. South Africa in Mexico City. If you think watching 104 matches is hard, try finding all the coveted stickers.

Friday, June 12

⭐ David Beckham gets star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

The soccer icon receives his star — the 2,849th on the walk. Victoria will give a speech, as will this longtime friend.

Sunday, June 14

🏎️ F1 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix

The race begins at 9 am ET with one big question: Will 19-year-old Kimi Antonelli continue his winning streak?

🎾 HSBC Championships Women’s Final

The women’s portion of this tennis-tournament institution wraps — and all eyes are on whether Serena will go all the way.

Tuesday, June 16

📣 America's Sweethearts S3 premieres on Netflix

This season, it’s all about the ’25/’26 Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders — including how they’re dealing with the newfound spotlight.

Psst…this is just the preview: Subscribe to the full Skimm+ calendar and never miss a moment.

In Our Rotation

Hotter days are coming. Here’s the personal cooling system one editor is using to get through a summer in Atlanta.

If you’re heading to the beach while on your period, this bathing suit has built-in shapewear and the absorbency level of up to three tampons.

Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).

No Notes

Athletic article on women Antarctica race

Tell Us

Which rookie just broke Caitlin Clark’s three-point record?

A. Azzi Fudd

B. Olivia Miles

C. Flau’jae Johnson

Angelina Jolie pickleballs so hard