The second coming of Odell Beckham Jr. in Big Blue came to a swift end. On Tuesday, the New York Giants released the 33-year-old wide receiver after just three games into the season. The move marks a quiet finish to what was once one of the most electric player-franchise pairings in modern NFL history. Also, the move reflects a pragmatism from the Giants’ front office. Rather than retaining a legacy name buried on the depth chart, New York opted to free up roster flexibility. For Beckham, the release marks another turning point in a career defined by massive peaks—including his 2014 Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign in New York and a Super Bowl LVI title with the Los Angeles Rams—alongside persistent injuries and late-career journeyman stints with Cleveland, Baltimore, and Miami. Beckham Jr. established himself as one of the most dynamic wide receivers of his era. He wielded a combination of elite athleticism, highlight-reel skill, and historic production. Drafted 12th overall in 2014 by the New York Giants out of LSU—where he won the 2013 Paul Hornung Award as college football’s most versatile player. Beckham took the NFL by storm, capturing the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award despite playing only 12 games. He also made history by becoming the fastest player in league history to reach 200 career receptions and 3,000 receiving yards. He earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections (2014–2016) and two second-team All-Pro honors while captivating fans with iconic plays. His legendary one-handed touchdown catch against the Dallas Cowboys is an all-time classic. Over his career, Beckham surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in five different seasons and reached the ultimate peak of team success as a key contributor to the Los Angeles Rams’ victory in Super Bowl LVI. Ultimately, the release signals that sentimentality has no place on an NFL roster. While the nostalgic reunion thrilled fans during August, the harsh reality of NFL depth charts dictated the outcome. Beckham now hits the wire as a free agent looking for a team in need of veteran receiver depth. For the Giants, the chapter on OBJ is officially closed once again
JR Smith Arrested in Texas on Assault Charge
Former NBA player and two-time world champion J.R. Smith was arrested Tuesday in Hunt County on a charge of family violence, according to local law enforcement records. The 16-year league veteran was booked into the Hunt County Detention Center on a charge of assault causing bodily injury family violence. Jail records indicate that as of Tuesday afternoon, no bond had been established for the 39-year-old former athlete. In a booking photo released by authorities, Smith is seen wearing a dark jail-issued smock and maintaining a neutral expression. Details regarding the specific nature of the incident or the identity of the other party involved have not yet been disclosed by the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office. Smith is widely recognized for his successful professional basketball career, which included championship rings with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2016 and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. Known for his scoring ability and perimeter shooting, he retired from the NBA following the 2020 season. After his professional career concluded, Smith made headlines for pursuing higher education. He enrolled at North Carolina A&T State University, where he notably joined the university’s golf team. He successfully completed his studies and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies in May 2026. This is not the first time the former shooting guard has faced legal challenges. In 2007, Smith was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident that resulted in the death of a passenger. He eventually pleaded guilty to reckless driving in connection with that crash and served 24 days in jail. Local authorities said the current investigation into the assault charge remains active. Representatives for Smith have not yet issued a public statement regarding the arrest or the allegations. Under Texas law, assault causing bodily injury family violence is typically classified as a Class A misdemeanor, though charges can be elevated depending on prior convictions or the specific circumstances of the encounter. Smith remains in custody pending a bond hearing.
Renni Rucci Announces Return To Rap As Blacc Zacc Awaits Trial
Renni Rucci is getting back in the studio. The South Carolina rapper and Love & Hip-Hop: Atlanta star announced her return to rap Monday (Sept. 28). Rucci shared an “A Day in the Life: Work Edition” vlog on Instagram. The video follows Rucci through a busy day as a mother and entertainer. She gets a manicure and pedicure before dropping her children off with babysitters. Rucci also appears as a guest during an entertainment taping. However, music remains the focus of her latest update. “I’m back in the studio on you bitches this week because I see y’all getting real comfortable around this motherfucka, like y’all really don’t know who really the ‘Carolina Queen,’” she says. View this post on Instagram Rucci’s announcement comes as her boyfriend, fellow South Carolina rapper Blacc Zacc, remains in federal custody. The couple has continued to draw attention within the state’s hip-hop scene. For Rucci, returning to recording also serves as a reminder of her place in Carolina rap. Her “Carolina Queen” declaration suggests she believes her absence has created room for other artists. South Carolina Rapper Renni Rucci Announces Rap Return While Her Boyfriend Blacc Zacc Awaits Federal Trial Her Instagram caption doubles down on that confidence. “You bitches be looking like road kill and have the audacity to speak on a bad bitchhhh?!?! These gas prices got yall losing money and yall mind. Anyway, tap in I’m back in this bitch!!!” The post combines Rucci’s personal and professional worlds. She showcases her responsibilities as a mother while preparing to resume her music career. Her return also arrives during a significant period for her relationship with Blacc Zacc. The rapper, who has built his own profile in South Carolina hip-hop, remains behind bars in federal custody. Rucci has not announced a release date for new music. She also has not revealed whether a new album, mixtape or single is coming. For now, her message is direct. Rucci says she is back in the studio and wants listeners to remember the “Carolina Queen.” The latest vlog gives fans a look at the woman behind the entertainer. It also marks the beginning of what could be a new chapter in Rucci’s rap career.
Jim Jones on Why the Dipset/Lox Tour Never Happened, Wale’s Mental Health & Sneaker Ball Gala
Jim Jones sits down to talk about the upcoming “Let’s Rap About It” Sneaker Ball Gala, hip-hop fashion, Wale’s emotional industry confession, and the legendary Dipset vs. The Lox Verzuz battle. In this interview, Jim Jones covers: The Let’s Rap About It Gala — The 1-year anniversary pod gala (sneaker ball edition) on October 10th. Dress up, stay fresh, and throw on exclusive kicks.Hip-hop fashion rankings — Jim names who’s really fresh in the game, from Fabolous to Lil Baby to Peezy. Wale’s viral Twitter rant — Wale opened up about the toll the music industry takes on artists. Jim gives his take: “He needs therapy,” but also relates to the struggle of staying creative, losing friends, and dealing with criticism.The Lox vs. Dipset Verzuz at Madison Square Garden — Jim breaks down why the planned Lox/Dipset tour never happened, calling Cam’ron a “hater and a sore loser” who snubbed the tour after the Verzuz loss. He also recalls catching COVID at the Garden and calls the event one of the most iconic moments in hip-hop history. The five P’s — “Proper preparation prevents poor performance.” Jim tips his hat to The Lox for being ready.
Jasmine Guy Addresses Criticism Over Her Appearance: “The Internet Can Be Brutal to Women”
Jasmine Guy is firing back at social media critics who targeted her appearance following the premiere of the highly anticipated “A Different World” revival. The actress, best known for her iconic portrayal of Whitley Gilbert, took to Instagram to address the “brutal” nature of online commentary regarding aging women in the spotlight. The backlash began shortly after the Netflix reboot debuted on Sept. 24, which featured Guy reuniting with former castmates Kadeem Hardison, Darryl M. Bell and Cree Summer. While many fans celebrated the return of the Hillman College crew, a vocal segment of the internet began drawing unfavorable comparisons between the 64-year-old actress and her appearance during the show’s original run in the late 1980s. Guy responded to the negativity by posting a striking new photo of herself, accompanied by a poignant message about the double standards women face as they age. She noted the irony of a society that encourages women to embrace life while simultaneously mocking the physical evidence of having lived it. “The internet can be brutal to women as we grow older,” Guy said. “It asks us to celebrate life while criticizing every sign that we’ve lived it. Growing older brings change, and I won’t pretend every change is easy. But beauty, style, and joy don’t have an expiration date.” The actress urged her followers to shift their focus away from superficial judgments and toward more meaningful pursuits. She advocated for a culture of support rather than scrutiny, asking fans to spend less time judging others and more time “loving each other, making memories, and living the life we’re here to live.” The revival marks a significant cultural moment for fans of the original NBC sitcom, which aired from 1987 to 1993. The show was praised for its depiction of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and its willingness to tackle complex social issues. The Netflix reboot brings the beloved characters back to the screen decades later, showing their evolution into a new chapter of life. View this post on Instagram Her response has sparked a broader conversation about ageism in Hollywood and the importance of allowing public figures to age with dignity and grace.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Says ‘I’m One of the Best Players in the World’
Giannis Antetokounmpo still feels like he’s one of the best players in the NBA. During NBA Media Day, “the Greek Freak” spoke about his standing in the league. “Yeah. I really do believe that,” he said. “If not the best, I’m one of the best players in the world. I know I’m at my best when I’m locked in, when my body’s right; I really do believe that I can dominate the game. “ “I can impact the game in both ways, offensively and defensively,” he added. “And I think I’ve shown it over the years, even in a year. Last year, that wasn’t one of my best years, probably one of my toughest years. And I was still able to affect the game in some way.” “I think it’s hard for people who don’t understand. But when you’re up there, top five, top four, top three, two, one, whatever, top 10, the best player is whoever is able to impact the game and help his team go deep in the playoffs and win a championship,” said Antetokounmpo. For Antetokounmpo, he stated who he believes is the best player today. “So right now, the best team in the NBA is the New York Knicks,” Antetokounmpo said. Bam Adebayo groaned at his statement “And they have one of the best players, Jalen Brunson.” Taking the podium, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra shared his main goal for Antetokounmpo. “We brought him here for a reason. He’s here for a reason,” he said. “We want to establish him in that conversation of best player in the league.” ANTETOKOUNMPO’S LEGENDARY CAREER Antetokounmpo has evolved into one of the most physically dominant and decorated players in NBA history. In 2021, he led Milwaukee to an NBA Championship, putting up a historic 50-point performance in Game 6 to earn Finals MVP honors. He’s won back-to-back regular season MVPs (2019, 2020), the 2020 Defensive Player of the Year award, and a Most Improved Player award (2017). Antetokounmpo is one of only three players in league history, alongside Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon, to win MVP, Finals MVP, and DPOY in a career. Named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, Antetokounmpo is a multi-time All-NBA First Team selection and perennially recognized as one of the game’s elite two-way superstars.
LeBron James Says He Almost Signed With the Knicks
LeBron James revealed that he would have signed with the New York Knicks if they didn’t win the championship. During NBA Media Day, James spoke about how he was close to coming to the Big Apple. ”I had visions of playing in [Madison Square] Garden and finishing my career in the Garden,” James told ESPN on Monday. “One of the best places I’ve ever played.’ ”I think it’s the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as a basketball player goes. But after they beat San Antonio, I was like, ‘Hey, I can’t.’ I couldn’t do it,” he added. Lebron on almost signing with the Knicks: “I had visions of definitely playing in the Garden, finishing my career in the Garden. One of the best places I’ve ever played. I think it’s the No. 1 arena in the world, as far as for a basketball player. But after they beat San… pic.twitter.com/vWcx9WTYTm — Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) September 28, 2026 James admitted that the backlash would have been too much if her joined a team that just won the title. ”Y’all wouldn’t have let me lay that down, at all,” James said, referring to the media at large. “But much respect to the Knicks, obviously. An unbelievable team, unbelievable players. Shout out, Jalen Brunson. I love that guy; he’s unbelievable. But, yeah, I’m happy where I’m at, and I’m looking forward to it.” James stunned the sports world by taking a team-friendly deal with Philadelphia to chase one last title alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. In that alternate timeline, joining the 76ers gives James a final opportunity to act as the ultimate floor general—sacrificing financial maximums for roster depth to push Philadelphia past the Eastern Conference elite and secure a storybook fifth championship. James also spoke about what he brings to the Sixers. “You got to try to stay even keel,” James said. “Understand that the noise is going to be the noise. What happens outside of this building is going to consistently happen, and it’s going to be doubled and tripled and quadrupled now that I’m here. It just comes with the territory. I understand it.”
Jacquees Arrested in Florida for DUI and Battery on Officer
R&B singer Jacquees was arrested Sunday morning in South Florida after authorities discovered him unconscious behind the wheel of a vehicle. The 32-year-old artist, whose legal name is Rodriguez Jacquees Broadnax, faces multiple criminal counts including driving under the influence and battery on a law enforcement officer. The Hollywood Police Department responded to a call just before 8 a.m. regarding a person passed out in a vehicle near North 62nd Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers identified the driver as Broadnax. Police said the singer became combative with first responders while being transported to a local hospital for evaluation. According to Broward County booking records, Jacquees was charged with DUI, battery on a law enforcement officer, firefighter, or EMT, and resisting or obstructing an officer without violence. While early records indicated a hold-for-hearing designation, he was no longer appearing in the online jail database as of Monday afternoon. This recent incident adds to a growing list of legal challenges for the Atlanta-based singer. In 2023, Broadnax was arrested in Georgia following an alleged physical altercation at a mall, where he faced charges of simple battery and obstruction. His history also includes a 2018 arrest for driving 116 mph in Atlanta and a separate traffic-related incident in Miami Beach. In recent months, the R&B singer has been in the public eye regarding his personal life and co-parenting relationship with Deiondra Sanders, daughter of football legend Deion Sanders. Under Florida law, the “HG” bond designation initially applied to his case typically means a suspect must remain in custody until they appear before a judge. Representatives for the singer have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the Hollywood arrest. The investigation into the specific circumstances of the DUI remains ongoing by local authorities.
Angela Stribling, BET Pioneer and Radio Icon Dies at 58
Angela Stribling, a pioneering voice of Black Entertainment Television and a legendary radio personality, has died at the age of 58. Her husband, Ken Washington, confirmed that Stribling passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, Sept. 26, following a courageous two-year battle with brain cancer. Washington shared the news through his wife’s social media accounts and in a statement to WHUR 96.3 FM, the station where Stribling made history. “Angela leaves behind a legacy of love, joy, kindness, inspiration, and a voice and spirit that will never be forgotten,” Washington said. He noted that Stribling’s sister, Darlene, was also by her side at the time of her passing. Stribling was a cornerstone of BET during its formative years, becoming a familiar face to millions of viewers across the country. She co-hosted the entertainment news program “Screen Scene” alongside Melvin Lindsey and frequently appeared on the network’s flagship show, “Video Soul.” Her passion for music extended to “Jazz Central,” where she shared hosting duties with legendary figures like Ramsey Lewis and Lou Rawls. In the radio industry, Stribling achieved a historic milestone as the first woman to host the original “Quiet Storm” on Washington’s WHUR. Her sultry voice and sophisticated delivery later anchored “Pillow Talk with Angela,” a late-night program that reached a national audience through Sirius XM. Her versatile career also included a cameo as a news anchor in the 1992 film “The Distinguished Gentleman” and a 2020 appearance on “The Real Housewives of Potomac.” Colleagues and friends in the media industry expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Veteran journalist Ed Gordon, a longtime contemporary at BET, described Stribling as a “sweet soul” and noted that her passing has been particularly difficult for the close-knit network family. View this post on Instagram Stribling had recently expressed gratitude for another year of life during her final birthday post in October 2025, calling her health challenges the most difficult experience of her lifetime while remaining hopeful for the future. A celebration of life is currently being planned for the Washington, D.C. area. Her husband stated that details regarding the date and venue will be announced at a later time. Stribling’s impact on Black media and her trailblazing role in jazz and R&B broadcasting remain a significant part of her enduring legacy.
Iggy Azalea Reveals She’s Back In The Studio After Retiring
Hip-Hop star Iggy Azalea appears to be returning to her rap career after retiring from music five years ago, according to a new Instagram post. The “Fancy” rapper revealed she has started recording music again after repeatedly declaring her exit from the industry. Azalea shared the news on Instagram alongside photos from the studio. She also opened up about her complicated relationship with music and her decision to revisit recording. “I am back recording music,” Azalea wrote. View this post on Instagram “Is that a bad idea? Maybe. Probably. Definitely.” The Australian-born rapper said music remains connected to her sense of identity. She admitted that stepping away has sometimes forced her to question who she is without creating. “Still, every time I’m incapacitated by mushrooms of the magical kind I seem to have an inner crisis about who Iam if I’m not making music,” she wrote. Azalea also acknowledged feeling anxious about social media. She said fans frequently ask when she plans to release new music. Hip-Hop Star Iggy Azalea Reveals She’s Returned To Rap Music “I also have to admit, although I enjoy living very privately & offline… I have a sort of anxiety when I do post or announce other things here,” she wrote. After months of reconsidering her future, Azalea decided to return to the studio. “Anyway blah blah blah… after months (maybe years) of pondering I’ve decided it’s unlike me to run away from anything in life,” she wrote. The decision apparently left her feeling energized. “So recently I decided just to be sure I haven’t been running away from MYSELF too, I’d better record and guess what?” Azalea wrote. “I drove home really fucking happy that day.” She closed with a cryptic message about her possible comeback. “Baby steps my darlings but I fear I may be coming…” The revelation marks a sharp turn for Azalea. In 2024, she said she would not finish her next album. She later doubled down on her retirement plans. In November 2025, she said, “I don’t want to come back.” Now, Azalea is back behind the mic, though no new release has been announced. For now, the rapper is calling it “baby steps.” Still, her studio return could mark the beginning of her next chapter.