Three-star prospect Blake Haubeil is Ohio State's kicker of the future.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- The Ohio State football program will sign kicker Blake Haubeil on Feb. 1 as part of its recruiting class for National Singing Day 2017. Here is an in-depth look at this member of the Buckeyes' recruiting class. 

Blake Haubeil 

School: Buffalo (N.Y.) Canisius

Position: Kicker 

Height, weight: 6-foot-2, 200 pounds

247Sports Rating: Davis is rated the No. 1 kicker and the No. 24 overall player in the 2017 recruiting class in the 247Sports composite rankings.

Other schools: None listed 

What's his deal? Haubiel is the lowest-rated player in Ohio State's 2017 recruiting class and the only three-star prospect in the group. The fact that he's a three-star prospect, though, is actually great because kickers don't usually get that many stars. In reality, Ohio State locked up the top-rated kicker in the country, so that's a huge win. 

Haubiel committed to Ohio State at Friday Night Lights in July of 2015 and has faded into the back of the pack. Kickers don't often get attention until they make the game-winning kick or miss a big one. Luckily for the Buckeyes, Haubeil is the type of prospect who brings the promise of not many misses. 

How he fits into Ohio State's plans: Last year's kicker was senior walk-on Tyler Durbin. Sean Nuernberger -- the scholarship kicker -- suffered a groin injury and never regained his job. This season, though, Nuernberger plans to be the starter as a redshirt junior. The plan, at least when Ohio State took Haubeil, was that Neurnberger would be a senior this season. Regardless, if Nuernberger takes the form Urban Meyer expected when he recruited him, he'll be the starter next season.

Projection for 2017: Haubeil could theoretically push Nuernberger for the starting job as a true freshman. Meyer has shown no hesitance marching out the best, most consistent kicker from practice, whether freshman, senior, walk-on or scholarship player. For projection purposes, though, Haubeil will likely redshirt in 2017. 

Why he's important to Ohio State's most important class ever: The recruiting approach has been extra national in 2017, so why not the kicker? The key to have the best class ever is complete balance, which means some emphasis on special teams. And true to its dominance, this class has the top-rated kicker -- who is a three-star -- committed and ready to sign. 

Highlights: 

What we've written about Haubeil: 

* Ohio State gets commitment from 2017 kicker Blake Haubeil at Friday Night Lights

It's cold outside, but the essence of baseball has engulfed Cleveland. MLB informed the Indians on Friday that they would host the 2019 All-Star Game. On Saturday, 7,000 fans came to TribeFest. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio - It doesn't feel like it outside, but baseball season is here. An umpire hasn't yelled 'play ball,' but the essence of the game has engulfed the Indians and Cleveland.

On Friday, Commissioner Rob Manfred was in town to award the Indians the 2019 All-Star Game. On Saturday, 7,000 fans came to TribeFest at the Intercontinental Hotel at Cleveland Clinic. Next Friday the team's equipment trucks leave Progressive Field for the long drive to Goodyear, Ariz., to start spring training.

"This has officially been the shortest postseason in history," said manager Terry Francona. "We played for an extra month. Then I stayed here until the second week of December trying to get healthy enough to go home.

"I was home for two weeks, went to visit the kids for Christmas. Went back home for two weeks. Now I'm here and I'm headed for Goodyear on Tuesday."

Such is life for the AL pennant winner that pushed the World Series to seven games before losing to the Cubs in 10 innings.

"You know what," said Francona. "I hope we have a short offseason for the next 10 years. That was a lot of fun."

Fun, yes, and it would be even better if Francona can avoi having another hip replacement surgery as he did right after the Game 7 loss.

Saturday was all about fun at TribeFest. It was also was the first time Edwin Encarnacion and Indians' fans were properly introduced.

"It's very exciting to be here," said Encarnacion. "The fans have been great. I never expected this. I can't wait to start the season and come back to Cleveland and play some baseball."

The Indians came to terms with Encarnacion in December on a three-year $60 million contract. He said he will report to spring training on Feb. 15, the day before position players are scheduled to report to Goodyear.

Encarnacion was born in the Dominican Republic, but was drafted by Texas. The Dominican is not governed by the MLB draft, but Encarnacion was eligible because he spent his high school years in Puerto Rico.

Last week the Dominican was rocked by the deaths of Yordano Ventura and former Indians infielder Andy Marte in separate car accidents on the same day. Ventura was the ace of Kansas City's pitching staff. Marte spent the last two years playing in Korea.

Encarnacion knew each player.

"It's very tough because we not only lost Yordano, but we lost Andy Marte," said Encarnacion. "I was great friends with Andy, too.

"It's a very sad moment and sad situation for the Dominican players and Dominican people. We lost two young guys like that. Yordano had a great future, so it's very tough."

The roads in the Dominican Republic, according to the World Health Organization, are among the most dangerous in the world.

"It is a tough country to drive in," said Encarnacion. "That's why you have to take care of yourself and you have to be smart about what you're doing. If you're going to drink, you have to have someone to drive your car."

Francona, on Thursday, indicated to reporters that Encarnacion would look great hitting in the No.4 spot. He added he would look even better if Michael Brantley's right shoulder allowed him to fill the No.3 spot ahead of Encarnacion.

Encarnacion feels the same way.

"We need a player like Michael Brantley," said Encarnacion. "Everybody knows he's a great player. He's an All-Star player and we need him. I think he's going to be ready and I think he's going to help this team."

California's Davis Webb directed scoring drives on all three of his possessions to lead the South to a 16-15 Senior Bowl victory Saturday over the North, which couldn't hit a final two-point attempt.

MOBILE, Ala. -- California's Davis Webb directed scoring drives on all three of his possessions to lead the South to a 16-15 Senior Bowl victory Saturday over the North, which couldn't hit a final two-point attempt.

The Pac-12 Conference's leading passer threw for 165 yards on 11-of-16 passing, including a 39-yard touchdown strike on a well-thrown fade to Texas A&M's Josh Reynolds.

Recap: How the game unfolded

Nate Peterman of Pittsburgh had a similarly strong performance for the North in the showcase game for senior NFL prospects that actually featured late drama. Peterman fired a 6-yard scoring pass to East Carolina's Zay Jones with 1:51 left but the North went for two points and a potential lead.

Under heavy pressure from Chattanooga's Keionta Davis, Peterman's pass was deflected and intercepted by BYU's Harvey Langi. The South ran out the clock from there.

Webb was the game's overall MVP after passing for 4,295 yards and 37 touchdowns last season as a graduate transfer from Texas Tech.

He led the South to a touchdown and field goal in the final three minutes of the first half. He and Reynolds proved a prolific combination on a touchdown drive late, moving downfield on connections of 21 -- on a third-and-long play -- and 13 yards before the touchdown.

Game rules require teams to go for two points in the second quarter, and the South's attempt failed to keep the halftime lead at 6-3.

Today's MVP: @Davis_Webb7

North Most Outstanding: @Kareemhunt7

South Most Outstanding: Jordan Willis @KStateFB

-- Reese's Senior Bowl (@seniorbowl) January 28, 2017

AWARD WINNERS

Toledo running back Kareem Hunt ran for 118 yards on 15 carries to earn North Outstanding Player Honors. The South's honoree was Kansas State defensive end Jordan Willis, who forced two fumbles and had a pair of sacks.

HEAVY TURNOVER

The South committed five turnovers and turned it over on its first three possessions. That included a pair of interceptions thrown by Antonio Pipkin of Division II Tiffin and another by Tennessee's Dobbs. Saint Francis linebacker Lorenzo Jerome forced a fumble and made two interceptions for the North.

COACHING STAFFS

Hue Jackson and his Cleveland Browns staff led the South team, and have the first, 12th and 33rd overall picks in the April draft. The Chicago Bears' John Fox, who has the No. 3 pick, coached the North. They're mostly looking for players beyond their top pick in Mobile, since stars like Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson and Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen turned down invitations and Texas A&M defensive end Myles Garrett is a junior and not eligible.

This was Kim's third stint with the Browns teaching players across position groups about handfighting.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Before every Browns game last season, it wasn't hard to find Master Joe Kim. The local Taekwondo master spent time with the team's defensive linemen prior to each contest, running them through drills designed to speed up their hands and teach them handfighting.

Now Kim's third stint with his favorite football team is over. The Browns have parted ways with the Lakewood native, Kim confirmed for Cleveland.com on Saturday.

Kim, a former member of the United States national team, got his NFL start when then-Browns coach Bill Belichick read an article about him in the newspaper. He dispatched Michael Dean Perry and Anthony Pleasant to Kim's gym and, a few weeks later, Belichick created a spot on his staff for Kim.

Kim has also worked for the Cowboys, Dolphins, Packers, Broncos, Bills, Chiefs and Redskins. He was also with the Browns in 2013.

While most of the accolades Kim has received revolve around defensive linemen and pass rushers, he worked with all of the Browns position groups with the exception of quarterbacks and specialists. 

Master Joe Kim returns home to teach Browns players to take fight to their opponents

Browns defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah posted a photo of he and Kim working pregame to Twitter on Saturday with the caption, "Getting my hands right pre game with @masterjoekim going to miss working with this guy!"

Getting my hands right pre game with @masterjoekim going to miss working with this guy! pic.twitter.com/zQNZgU11p2

-- Emmanuel Ogbah (@EmanOgbah) January 28, 2017

Defensive tackle Danny Shelton posted an Instagram photo with Kim captioned, "Got the opportunity to work with (Master Joe Kim) this past year and felt like I really improved from my first year with his help. Appreciate your work Master Kim and I know the best is in store for you. #blessed #masterjoekim"

Got the opportunity to work with @masterjoekim this past year and felt like I really improved from my first year with his help. Appreciate your work Master Kim and I know the best is in store for you. #blessed #masterjoekim

A photo posted by Danny Danzel Shelton (@im_mista_lavalava71) on Jan 28, 2017 at 4:22pm PST

The Buckeyes dropped to 3-6 in Big Ten play with a loss to Iowa on Saturday.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Before Saturday's tip-off against Iowa, the game shifted from one Ohio State probably should win to one the Buckeyes had to win.

The Hawkeyes would be playing without senior guard Peter Jok, the Big Ten's leading scorer, and a reeling team that had lost three straight was dealt a big blow before the game even started. Ohio State was in a great position to get a needed Big Ten win.

The Buckeyes didn't take advantage of it.

Instead they came out with arguably their flattest effort of the season, showing little energy on defense and an inability to figure out Iowa's zone on the other end. Without Jok, the Hawkeyes had a free-flowing offense and piled on the points in an 85-72 win in Iowa City.

Ohio State (13-10, 3-6 Big Ten) went into a double-digit hole in the first half, and could never get back in the game with a stagnant offense and a defense that allowed easy looks inside for an inspired Iowa team.

Ohio State starting center Trevor Thompson picked up his fourth foul with 12:56 left in the second half. Forward Jae'Sean Tate picked up his fourth with 10:37 left. With the Buckeyes' two best interior players saddled with foul trouble, Iowa kept going inside in the second half. The Hawkeyes got 26 of their points on layups, and had an inside-out game to keep the Buckeyes chasing all night.

Iowa shot 10-for-23 (43 percent) on 3-pointers, perhaps the biggest one coming from Jordan Bohannon to put the Hawkeyes up 81-66 with 3:57 left. Ohio State had been on a 10-3 run and made five straight field goals at that point. If a comeback was coming, it was going to happen when Kam Williams cut the hole to 12 points with a 3. Bohannon's long ball slammed the door shut on the Buckeyes.

Tate led the Buckeyes with 17 points and seven rebounds. Williams had 14. JaQuan Lyle had 12, but he could never get in a rhythm offensively, struggling with his 3-point shot (1-for-6) for the first time in Big Ten play and failing to regularly get inside against the zone.

Thompson, arguably the Buckeyes' best player in Big Ten play, fouled out with 6:43 left, finishing with zero points on two field goal attempts.

To beat Iowa's zone, Ohio State was going to have to hit some 3s to open things up. The Buckeyes were 7-for-22 (32 percent).

Brady Ellingson led Iowa with 17 points.

What it means

Ohio State still has an outside shot at the NCAA Tournament, and didn't have to win every game the rest of the way to get there. Missing an opportunity to beat Iowa without Jok hurts, but that's not the biggest takeaway.

The takeaway should be that the Buckeyes failed to show up as the Big Ten season reaches its halfway point. This was the second of three games in six days, the Buckeyes looked lethargic. Iowa outscored Ohio State 17-6 on second-chance points, and limited the Buckeyes to just four fastbreak points.

That doesn't bode well with No. 22 Maryland coming to Columbus on Tuesday night.

Buckeyes slow from start

It was a Big Ten road game, so Ohio State had to go down by double-digits in the first half. Can't buck tradition. Without even looking at the sheer numbers of it, you could argue that this was the Buckeyes' worst start to any game this season.

The Buckeyes preached coming out the right way in road games so that these deficits don't happen. Instead Iowa built an 11-point lead. Bohannon hit a crazy deep 3 late in the shot clock to put the Hawkeyes up 40-29 at the break.

Iowa shot 50 percent from the field (15-for-30) and 43 percent from 3-point range (6-for-14) in the opening half, and had 11 points off of eight Ohio State turnovers.

Buckeyes starters Tate, Thompson and Marc Loving all had two fouls in the first half, and sat for the final 4:55. Iowa closed the half on a 10-4 run during that period. Lyle and Williams, the other two Ohio State starters, combined to go 3-for-13 from the field in the first half.

What's next?

The Buckeyes are back on home on Tuesday night against No. 22 Maryland. Tip-off from Value City Arena is set for 7 p.m. The game will be televised by ESPN.

Oliver Bjorkstrand's goal in the ninth shootout round gave the Cleveland Monsters a 3-2 victory over the Chicago Wolves in an AHL Central Division game at Quicken Loans Arena on Saturday night.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Monsters and Chicago Wolves matched goals and misses through eight shootout rounds Saturday night before Oliver Bjorkstrand scored in the ninth to give the Monsters a 3-2 victory at Quicken Loans Arena.

The game was Cleveland's longest of the season, and was played in front of their largest crowd, 14,527. It improved the Monsters to 20-17-1-3, in fourth place in the AHL Central Division. The third-place Wolves stand at 25-15-3-3.

Cleveland fell behind in the first period, 2-0, on an even-strength goal by Morgan Ellis at 4:08, and a 5-on-3 power play goal by former Monster Andrew Agozzino at 14:21.

But the Monsters killed a penalty to start the middle frame, and strong play by goaltender Joonas Korpisalo kept the Wolves from doing more damage. Center Justin Scott, fed by Bjorkstrand from behind the Chicago net, put Cleveland on the scoreboard at 2:14, and left wing Ryan Craig tied the game with a power-play goal at 18:16, assisted by Scott and Sonny Milano.

A scoreless third period led to a scoreless overtime, followed by the shootout rounds that saw Cleveland goals by Milano, Markus Hannikainen, Jordan Maletta and Paul Bittner before the winning marker by Bjorkstrand, who was earlier frustrated in three breakaway scoring chances.

Korpisalo stopped 25 of 27 shots for the win. Pheonix Copley stopped 30 of 32 in regulation in taking the loss for Chicago.

Cleveland was 1-for-3 on power plays. Chicago was 1-for-6.

Monster mash: Korpisalo was in net for Cleveland for the first time in three weeks after the Monsters and Columbus Blue Jackets swapped goaltenders on Friday; goalie Anton Forsberg returned to Columbus for the third time this season. Hannikainen returned to Cleveland on Thursday from Columbus for the eighth time this season.

For the first time in their 10-year history, the Monsters will have three players on the ice -- Bjorkstrand, Forsberg and captain Craig -- in the AHL All-Star Classic, airing at 7 p.m. Monday on Fox Sports Ohio.

Next up, Cleveland hosts the Iowa Wild for two games at The Q, at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Isaiah Johnson capped a 27-point night hitting a clutch free throw with 2.3 seconds to play for a big 91-90 victory to stay undefeated in MAC play this season.

AKRON, Ohio -- The Akron Zips remained undefeated at home this season with a 91-90 victory over Buffalo Saturday night at Rhodes Arena.

It took a big free throw from 6-foot-10, 290-pound senior center Isaiah Johnson with 2.3 seconds left in the game to lock up the win that keeps the Zips undefeated in Mid-American Conference play. Akron got 27 points from Johnson, but it could have been more if he had not gone 9-of-19 from the line.

Fellow senior Kwan Cheatham notched a career-high 31 points behind seven 3-pointers, the last of which came just off the tail of the midcourt Z. Buffalo's Blake Hamilton led all scorers with 33 points.

The real key for Akron was a sound 36-29 rebounding edge over the aggressive Bulls. Buffalo was shooting  50 percent from the field most of the night to keep this a close game.

The first half: The first rematch of last season's MAC Tournament Championship game, which Buffalo won, 64-61. Akron built their 43-40 lead behind some strong work on the backboards, out-rebounding the Bulls ...

When combined with some strong 3-point shooting from Kwan Cheatham, Buffalo was doing well to stay in contact with Akron at the break, with some balanced scoring all around.

Game stats.

Most improved: Several players in the MAC have made significant strides since last season, but few can match what Akron senior Kwan Cheatham is doing. A career 5.8-point scorer coming into the season -- and never higher than 7.9 --  Cheatham looked the same in non-conference play, scoring in double figures just five times.

But since MAC play began, Cheatham is averaging 15.6 points a game against familiar competition, and has failed to score in double figures just once.

By the numbers: The Zips are well on their way to winning 21 games for the 12th straight season ... Akron entered the Buffalo game on a 27-game home winning streak, third-longest in the country behind Kansas (53) and Oregon (38) ... While it looks like no team in the MAC is close to taking down the Zips this season, Akron does have a few weak spots. The Zips are shooting 64.1 percent on free throws, third-worst in the league, and are allowing the opposition to knock down 36.6 percent of their 3-pointers, which is eighth in the MAC.

On Saturday night, J.R. Smith, still sidelined with a fractured right thumb suffered on Dec. 20, wanted to shed some light on Cleveland's most turbulent week of the season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers are in the midst of a typical January -- at least for them.

Drama, finger-pointing, calls for change and trade rumblings have once again encircled the Cavaliers following LeBron James' impromptu meeting with Cleveland-based reporters after Monday's stunning loss to the short-handed New Orleans Pelicans, a get-together where James questioned management, called for another playmaker and wondered aloud if the Cavs had the proper personnel to repeat as NBA champs.

All of it, which James termed as a "good thing for our team," put the Cavs back in the headlines. 

On Saturday night, J.R. Smith, still sidelined with a fractured right thumb suffered on Dec. 20, wanted to shed some light on Cleveland's most turbulent week of the season.

"We've been here before," Smith said in a two-minute video for Uninterrupted. "We was in the same situation last year. We were losing games. I believe it was Brooklyn, we were in New York, and had a huge team meeting -- a lot of team meetings last year about us losing and quote unquote stuff within the team and whatever. But it's all good. It's all love and we love each other. Just have to get back to what we're used to -- having fun, playing the game and playing each game like it's your last."

"We'll be fine." @TheRealJRSmith gives his thoughts on how the @cavs will bounce back after their recent tough stretch of games. pic.twitter.com/VxJpVL0eD1

-- UNINTERRUPTED (@uninterrupted) January 29, 2017

There won't be a coaching change like last January. And a major roster overhaul is highly unlikely despite the Carmelo-Anthony-to-Cleveland rumors. It's up to the Cavs to dig deep and quiet the nose with their play.

They took a positive step on Friday, snapping their three-game losing skid with a 124-116 win against the feeble Brooklyn Nets.

While the victory is exactly what the champs needed, stopping the bleeding temporarily, it hardly means things are back to normal.

"Just playing with that grit and determination to be the best every night," Smith said. "We know we're going to get people's best shot and we know we're the champs and as a competitor that's what you want. We have to be more physical and everything else will take care of itself. As long as you play hard and play physical and adjust to your assignments and be ready for your assignments then we will be fine."

Defense is one of the areas where Smith is missed the most. Lue called him the team's "best defensive player" during last year's playoff run.

In the 19 games without the starting shooting guard, the Cavs are 11-8, allowing 17 opponents to score 100 points or more.

"For the most part it's back to the honeymoon stage. We the champs and we just are who we are so (thinking) teams are just going to roll over and that's not the case," Smith said. "We obviously know that now. More than likely just look forward to us playing better and things going better than what they are. It will happen. We just have to take it one game at a time."

During his video, Smith didn't give much of an update on his return, stating that he's taking it "one day at a time trying to get back." The team originally said he would be out 12-to-14 weeks.

"The hand is feeling good and treatment and rehab is going good so I will see you soon," he said.

Smith has been at the team's home games recently, celebrating made shots and hanging out near the tunnel leading to the locker room. But travel hasn't been possible.  

"We miss J.R," Lue said Friday night. "He's a starter, big part of what we do -- defensively and shooting the basketball. We just miss having him around and his spirit, his energy. But he will be back soon. Guys have to continue to step up and keep playing until he gets back."

Smith, 31, is averaging 8.6 points and shooting 36.2 percent from 3-point range. Those are his lowest numbers since joining the Cavs in January, 2015.

Phil Mickelson was tied for 18th at 5-under entering the final round of Farmers Insurance Open 2017.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Patrick Rodgers and Brandt Snedeker were tied for the lead entering the final round of Farmers Insurance Open 2017 on Sunday at Torrey Pines GC in La Jolla, Calif. Tiger Woods missed the cut (36 holes).

Rodgers and Snedeker each was 9-under. Two players were 8-under.

The PGA Tour season began in mid-October, with the Safeway Open in California, and has consisted of 10 official events. Quality players have provided plenty of highlights and entertainment value.

Understand the reality, though: The PGA Tour season just got real. It had to do with the presence of one man: Woods.

Woods, who shot 4-over in his 36 holes, played in an official tour event for the first time in 17 months. Woods was part of a loaded field that included Dustin Johnson, Jason Day, Hideki Matsuyama, Jimmy Walker, Rickie Fowler, Phil Mickelson and Rose. And Snedeker.

The unassuming Snedeker has thrived in this event in recent years and happens to be defending champion.

• Farmers Insurance tee times

All-time-great Woods has won 79 PGA Tour official events, including 14 majors. He is an eight-time winner as a pro at Torrey Pines. However, he has not won overall since 2013 (five times) and is major-less since 2008 (U.S. Open).

Woods' previous start in an official event on the PGA Tour came at the Wyndham Championship in late-August 2015. He finished tied for 10th in a season already shortened by injuries. He underwent multiple back surgeries/procedures and did not play again until the unofficial Hero World Challenge at the outset of December 2016.

At Hero in the Bahamas, Woods finished 15th in a field of 18 but led everybody with 24 birdies.

Mickelson, the second-best player of his era, underwent two sports-hernia surgeries in late 2016 before making his 2017 debut last week at CareerBuilder Challenge. He finished tied for 21st.

Mickelson was tied for 18th at 5-under at Torrey Pines.

Sunday's live leaderboard:

PGA TOUR

FARMERS INSURANCE OPEN
Site: San Diego.
Course: Torrey Pines GC. Yardage: 7,698 Par: 72 (South Course); Yardage: 7,258. Par: 72. (North Course).
Purse: $6.7 million (First place: $1,206,000).
Television: CBS Sports (Saturday 3-6 p.m.; Sunday, 3-6:30 p.m.); Golf Channel (Thursday-Friday 3-7 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 1-2:30 p.m.)
Defending champion: Brandt Snedeker.
Last week: Hudson Swafford won the CareerBuilder Challenge.
Notes: Tiger Woods makes his 2017 debut at the tournament he has won seven times, most recently in 2013. ... Also making a debut is the North Course that Tom Weiskopf renovated. The nines have been reversed, bunkers reduced, and the size of the greens expanded. ... Since his previous victory at Torrey Pines, Woods has missed the 54-hole cut (2014) and withdrawn after 11 holes because of tightness in his back. ... This is the first time Jason Day is competing against a full field since the Deutsche Bank Championship in early September. ... The tournament last year finished on a Monday (wind) for the second time in four years. ... Dustin Johnson and Rickie Fowler entered the tournament. Both were in Abu Dhabi last week. ... Bubba Watson (2011) is the only past champion at the Farmers Insurance Open who is not playing this year -- not including those on the PGA Tour Champions. ... Justin Rose, who missed the cut at Torrey in 2015 and 2016, is playing for the third straight year.
Next week: Waste Management Phoenix Open.
Online: www.pgatour.com

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

The Australian Open 2017 men's singles final was an unexpected delight for tennis fans: No. 9 seed Rafael Nadal vs. No. 17 Roger Federer.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Australian Open 2017 lived a charmed life.

One day after a women's singles final of the Williams sisters, Serena and Venus, the men's singles final was Rafael Nadal vs. Roger Federer in Melbourne.

FEDERER VS. NADAL LIVE SCORING

Nadal vs. Federer -- or Federer vs. Nadal -- began at approximately 3:36 a.m. Eastern Time on Sunday. Nadal held serve in the first game.

It is the 35th head-to-head meeting between the legends. Nadal entered with a 23-11 lead, including 6-2 in Grand Slam finals. He was 3-0 against Federer in the Australian Open, having won the final in 2009 and semifinals in 2012 and 2014.

Federer ranks No. 1 among men in the Open Era with 17 major titles. Nadal was tied with Pete Sampras for second with 14. 

Nadal, 30, seeded ninth in this year's Australian Open, sought to become the first men's player in the Open Era to win each Grand Slam tournament at least twice.  

Federer, 35, is seeded 17th.

Both players needed 23 sets to reach the final, including a pair of five-setters in the semis.

Early morning Saturday ET, Serena defeated Venus, 6-4, 6-4, for her 23rd Grand Slam singles title.

Deshaun Watson may not have hurt himself by skipping the Senior Bowl, but he didn't help himself either. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Hey, Mary Kay!

Hey, Mary Kay: DeShaun Watson is not playing in the Senior Bowl despite being asked to do so by the Browns. Although Hue Jackson said he will not hold it against him, he also said he didn't think it was right. A few mock drafts have the Browns taking Watson as the first pick. Did he ruin any chance that the Browns will take him at number 1? If so, was it intentional?  -- John Robinson, Sod, West Virginia

Hey, John: Even though Jackson said he wouldn't hold it against Watson, I think Watson could've helped himself if he had participated. I don't know if it would've inspired them to take him No. 1, but it would've been a chance to prove that he could make the transition from college spread to a pro-style offense.

It also would've enabled Jackson to determine if he could work on Watson's mechanics and help develop him. It also would've given them three days to gauge his processing speed, which is vitally important in the transition from college to the pros. As it stands, I think the Browns would draft Mentor, Ohio native Mitch Trubisky ahead of Watson, and if that's the case, he missed a chance to change their minds.

Hey, Mary Kay: What do you think of Clemson coach Dabo Swinney saying that if the Browns pass on Deshaun Watson it's like passing on Michael Jordan? -- Ben Jones, Macon, Ga.

Hey, Ben: It was a bold statement for Swinney to make Tuesday, but I don't think it will sway the Browns in any way. I think they will continue to study Watson, Trubisky and the other quarterbacks to determine if one is their quarterback of the future. The big question is, do they think one of the top prospects can develop into a championship QB? If so, they'll need to take him No. 1 or risk losing him before they pick again at No. 12.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, even though it will sound crazy to some: I'd consider drafting Trubisky No. 1 overall and shipping the No. 12 pick to New England for Jimmy Garoppolo. If you end up with two premier quarterbacks, trade one for a No. 1 pick down the road. It's time to solve the quarterback problem at any cost.

Hey, Mary Kay: I have seen a number of writers/reporters suggesting Jimmy Garropolo as a potential fit in Cleveland. Is there any indication the Browns' front office has kicked the tires on such a move? - Mark Langor, Bangor, Pa.

Hey, Mark: If they haven't kicked the tires on Garoppolo yet, they will. I think the Browns' interest is very real. But they won't be alone. He's one of the top veterans that might become available, and other teams will be in the hunt.

When Kyle Shanahan gets the 49ers job, he might go after Garoppolo too. He liked him coming out in 2014. Some people feel a first-rounder for Garoppolo is too much given his limited starting experience. But the Browns need to jump in the game, and I've heard great things about Garoppolo from some very smart QB experts.   

Hey, Mary Kay: You seriously must consider changing your view on the first overall pick. Myles Garrett is the best defensive end that I have ever seen! He blows up any blocker, is super quick and has all the moves. Teams almost always ran away from his side, and they had to have a special game plan just for him. Super talent! Next year's QB class is ridiculously good, wait a year with Cody Kessler and build a monster defense. Love your reporting, read you everyday from the South. Keep up the good work. -- Respectfully; Dave Ripley, Greenville, South Carolina

Hey, Dave: Thanks! The more people I talk to, the more I am convinced that the Browns won't take Garrett No. 1 overall.  I've had too many talent evaluators question his motor, hustle and work ethic. As Gregg Williams said at the Senior Bowl "I'm a 'motorcoach.'' Effort and toughness are high on his list, and Garrett might not have the consistent tenacity the Browns are seeking. The only way they'll take him No. 1 is if they feel Williams can bring out the beast in him, and keep it out. But right now, I'm not feeling it at No. 1.

Rounding up everything from Ohio State's junior day, including pictures of high-profile visitors and a new offer.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Rounding up everything from Ohio State's junior day: 

* Four-star Jaiden Woodbey of Bellflower (Calif.) St. John Bosco had a good time: Rated the No. 3 safety and No. 32 overall player in the 2018 recruiting class in the 247Sports composite rankings, Woodbey was perhaps the most important prospect on campus on Saturday. A younger teammate of five-star offensive lineman and 2017 Ohio State commit Wyatt Davis, the 6-foot-2, 205-pound defensive back is already one of the most coveted prospects in the country. 

And how does Ohio State usually end up landing elite-level prospects from far away? Having a connection (Davis) and getting involved early. 

Woodbey is familiar. 

Can you see it [?] [?][?] pic.twitter.com/UB5qEYf3jj

-- I AM JAIDEN WOODBEY (@JaidenWoodbey6) January 28, 2017

* Iverson Clement didn't make the visit: The four-star athlete from Mount Holly (N.J.) Rancocas Valley Regional was supposed to be at the junior day, but he had transportation issues that prevented him from making it to Columbus. 

Couldn't make it had no ride. Would of the loved to be in Columbus hang out with @CoachTonyAlford &@OSUCoachMeyer but I'll be up there soon https://t.co/rXjqMp8mua

-- Iverson Clement (@Swaggy__ai) January 28, 2017

Rated the No. 22 athlete in the 2018 class, Iverson put Ohio State in a recent top six that also included Florida, Michigan, Penn State, Rutgers and Tennessee. The Buckeyes, however, are considered the favorite at this point. 

* Four-star TE Jeremy Ruckert of Lindenhurst, N.Y., showed Ohio State love: Ohio State didn't have a tight end in the 2017 class, so there may be room for two in 2018. Ruckert, who is rated the No. 3 tight end in the 2018 class, is one the Buckeyes really want like to add. 

The 6-foot-6, 230-pound prospect has already been to Ohio State in the past and included the Buckeyes in his top five. Expect Meyer's program to be involved until the very end.

Really ..really enjoyed my time today! #GoBucks [?] [?] pic.twitter.com/JC5ALvjbSH

-- Jeremy Ruckert (@Jeremy_Ruckert1) January 28, 2017

Just finished my visit. Had a great visit and a great dinner. Thank you OSU!![?][?] [?] #GoBucks

-- Jeremy Ruckert (@Jeremy_Ruckert1) January 29, 2017

* Quinn Carroll earned a scholarship: The 6-foot-6, 290-pound offensive linemen came into the weekend without an Ohio State offer, but he left with one. Carroll is going to be a junior -- he's in the 2019 class -- and doesn't yet have a rating, but his scholarship offers list indicates that he'll be one of the best offensive linemen in his class. Meyer spent some one-on-one time with Carroll on Saturday.

Humbled to receive an offer from Coach Meyer at THE Ohio State University!!! #GoBucks [?] @OSUCoachMeyer pic.twitter.com/hofpL1Tehg

-- QUINN CARROLL (@q_ocarroll) January 28, 2017

LeBron James, owner Dan Gilbert and Cleveland Cavaliers' roster improvement for another championship run.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- This afternoon the Cleveland Cavaliers take on the Oklahoma City Thunder and triple-double machine Russell Westbrook at Quicken Loans Arena.

In case you haven't heard, the Cavs are in somewhat of a slump and their star player is not happy with management's efforts to bolster the roster for another championship run. Throw in the lack of defense that Cleveland has been playing and you have the annual mid-winter malaise to which we've become so accustomed.

The best remedy being to enjoy the theater of the purse strings, starring LeBron and management.

Crowquill, by Plain Dealer artist Ted Crow, appears three times a week on cleveland.com.

Encarnacion wore No. 10 with the Blue Jays for the last six seasons. Gomes has sported the same number the last four years with Cleveland. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- No exchange has taken place, but give it time.

When the Indians signed Edwin Encarnacion, Yan Gomes called his new (and old) teammate.

"I'm like, 'Hey, you need my number?'" Gomes said.

Encarnacion wore No. 10 with the Blue Jays for the last six seasons. Gomes has sported the same number the last four years with Cleveland.

The agreement materialized quickly. Encarnacion donned a No. 10 uniform when the organization introduced him at Progressive Field earlier this month. Gomes sported a No. 7 jersey at Tribe Fest. The terms of the number swap will be finalized later, likely during spring training.

"You're trying to keep a guy like that happy," Gomes said. "If he wants No. 10, he can have it as many times as he wants."

In a way, he was pleased to turn the page and take on a single digit. Gomes batted .167 with a .527 OPS in 74 games last season, one marred by injuries and frustration at the plate.

"I overdid it with No. 10," Gomes said. "I hope that that doesn't carry [over] to him. I think he's done pretty well with No. 10 in Toronto."

Gomes' offensive numbers have declined across the board each of the last two years, since his Silver Slugger season of 2014. In 653 plate appearances since, he has posted a .205/.240/.365 slash line, with 22 walks and 173 strikeouts.

Along the way, he has endured a sprained knee, a separated shoulder and a broken wrist. He recovered enough from the wrist injury in time to make the Indians' postseason roster. He registered four at-bats during the World Series.

"That's something that nobody can take away from me," Gomes said. "Even though it didn't go as planned, I still got to play in a World Series game."

Gomes and Roberto Perez figure to share the catching duties this season. Perez spent much of January training in Florida with Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina.

"He's the best catcher," Perez said of Molina. "You want to work with the best."

As for Gomes, the 29-year-old said he had returned to full health by the end of the Indians' postseason run.

"I put all that stuff behind me," Gomes said. "[My] body is ready to go. [I'm] just excited about spring training now."

As he should be. That's when he'll likely receive his end of his deal with Encarnacion.

Related: Encarnacion signing created a buzz among Tribe players

No two players have met more often in Grand Slam finals than Federer and Nadal, who hadn't met in a major since the 2011 French Open.

MELBOURNE, Australia -- Roger Federer has won his 18th Grand Slam title and put some extra distance on the all-time list between himself and Rafael Nadal, the man he beat 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in a vintage Australian Open final on Sunday.

It was the 35-year-old Federer's fifth Australian title, his first at a major since Wimbledon in 2012, and it reversed the status quo against his nemesis, Nadal.

Federer had lost six of the previous eight Grand Slam finals he'd played against Nadal, and had only previously beaten the left-handed Spaniard in 11 of their 34 matches.

Both players were returning from extended layoffs for injuries -- Federer the left knee; Nadal the left wrist -- and were seeded 17th and ninth respectively.

Nadal remains equal second with Pete Sampras on the all-time list, with the last of his 14 majors coming at Roland Garros in 2014.

After four sets where the momentum swung alternately from one player to the next, the fifth had all the tension and drama that these two players are famous for.

Nadal went up an early break and it seemed as if the injury time-out Federer needed after the fourth set may have been an indicator of things to come.

But the Swiss star rallied, and broke back in a pivotal sixth game and took control in a period when he won 10 straight points.

Nadal saved three break points in the eighth game but lost momentum again when Federer finished off a 26-shot rally -- the longest of the match -- with a forehand winner down the line.

Consecutive forehand errors gave Federer the pivotal break for 5-3, but Nadal made him work for the very last point.

Serving for the match, Federer had to save two break points with an ace and a forehand winner.

At deuce, he was called for a double-fault but challenged the out call on his second serve. The call was overturned, and he got to play two.

Not long after, he fired an ace to get his second match point and hit a forehand crosscourt winner to finish off.

His celebrations were delayed, though, when Nadal challenged the call. Federer watched the replay on the tournament screen, and leaped for joy when it showed his last shot was in. His 100th match at the Australian Open ended with his fifth title at Melbourne Park.

No two players had met more often in Grand Slam finals in the Open era, and Nadal had previously dominated. But they hadn't met in a major final since the 2011 French Open, won by Nadal.

Three months ago, they were both on breaks when Federer joined Nadal in Mallorca for the opening of the Spaniard's tennis academy and the pair joked about ever being able to contend for majors again.

Yet here they were, first Grand Slam tournament of the season, renewing the classic rivalry that saw them dominate tennis a decade ago.

The long-odds final -- No. 9 against No. 17 -- unfolded after six-time champion Novak Djokovic was shockingly upset by No. 117-ranked Denis Istomin in the second round and top-ranked Andy Murray, a five-time losing finalist in Australia, went out in the fourth round to left-handed serve-volleyer Mischa Zverev.

Federer beat Zverev in the quarterfinals and U.S. Open champion Stan Wawrinka in an all-Swiss semifinal to reach the championship match. The six years between his Australian titles set a record, too, longer than the five years that both Boris Becker and Andre Agassi had between championships in Melbourne.

LeBron James and the Cavs (31-14) host Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder (28-19) at 3:30 p.m. Sunday on ABC. Consider yourself placed on full triple-double alert. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- LeBron James and the Cavs (31-14) host Russell Westbrook and the Oklahoma City Thunder (28-19) at 3:30 p.m. Sunday on ABC. Consider yourself placed on full triple-double alert.

Last meeting: This is the first game between teams this season; the Cavs swept the two games last year.

Cavs fast fact(s): LeBron James posted two triple-doubles last week, has five this season and 47 for his career, and needs just six points to become the first player ever to score 20,000 points for the Cavs.

Cavs injuries: J.R. Smith (right thumb surgery) and Chris Andersen (torn right ACL) are out.

Thunder fast fact (s): Russell Westbrook leads the NBA in scoring, has 23 triple-doubles this season, and is now the second player in NBA history (Oscar Robertson) to average 30+ points, 10+ rebounds and 10+ assists through the first 40-plus games. Robertson averaged a triple-double for the entire 1961-62 season. Is Westbrook next?  

Thunder injuries: Enes Kanter  (fractured right ulna)  is out.

Probable starters:

Cavs

F LeBron James (25.7 ppg; 7.9 rpg; 8.5 apg)

F Kevin Love (20.3 ppg; 11.1 rpg; 1.9 apg)

C Tristan Thompson (7.2 ppg; 9.6 rpg; 0.8 apg)

G Iman Shumpert (7.8 ppg; 2.8 rpg; 1.6 apg)

G Kyrie Irving (24.5 ppg; 3.4 rpg; 5.6 apg)

Thunder

F Andre Roberson (6.6 ppg; 4.8 rpg; 1.1 apg)

F Domantas Sabonis (6.1 ppg; 3.5 rpg; 1.2 apg)

C Steven Adams (12.2 ppg; 7.5 rpg; 1.1 apg)

G Victor Oladipo (16.2 ppg; 4.2 rpg; 2.6 apg)

G Russell Westbrook (31.0 ppg; 10.6 rpg; 10.2 apg)

Justin Bieber got a taste of NHL hockey and the Staples Center glass Saturday, courtesy of NHL great Chris Pronger, during the 2017 NHL All-Star Celebrity Shootout. Bieber was driven into the boards in the first half by a laughing Pronger, who spent 18 years in the league as a hard-nosed defenseman. The singer responded with an empty-net goal and an assist as Team Gretzky beat Team Lemieux 5-3.

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Justin Bieber got a taste of NHL hockey and the Staples Center glass Saturday, courtesy of NHL great Chris Pronger. The pop star responded by showing off skills that would not have looked out of place in his native Canada during a celebrity exhibition game.

Bieber was driven into the boards in the first half by a laughing Pronger, who spent 18 years in the league as a hard-nosed defenseman. The singer responded with an empty-net goal and an assist as Team Gretzky beat Team Lemieux 5-3 in the 2017 NHL All-Star Celebrity Shootout.

Bieber did not look out of place while sharing the ice with current NHL stars Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers and the Chicago Blackhawks' Patrick Kane, along with a host of retired greats and hockey-loving entertainment figures.

Although he did miss two penalty shots, Bieber scored a goal as time expired, prompting actor Cuba Gooding Jr. to joke, "Twenty-five shots later, thank God he made it."

"I was shocked at how good the kid can play," said Gooding, who scored the winning goal. "He really has nice skills, and he's a real sweet kid, too."

Pictures posted to the NHL's Instagram account showed a smiling Bieber with Wayne Gretzky in the locker room. Bieber will be back at Staples Center on Feb. 12 as he is nominated for four Grammys, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year.

Local Southern California favorites including Luc Robitaille and Teemu Selanne wore patches on their jerseys honoring Canadian actor Alan Thicke, a longtime fan of the Los Angeles Kings who died in December while playing hockey.

By DAN GREENSPAN, Associated Press

The Cleveland Heights receiver is exactly the kind of Ohio player that Ohio State must always have room for. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Jaylen Harris stood on the stage with Terrelle Pryor on Thursday night, the Cleveland Heights senior as tall as the Browns leading receiver. Handsome and smiling in a blue suit, Harris beamed, his parents and coach in the crowd, as he received his award as the city's best high school athlete at the Greater Cleveland Sports Awards.

"I've got mad love from Cleveland," Harris said.

Imagine if Harris was signing somewhere other than Ohio State on Wednesday.

That's not a worry, because on National Signing Day, Harris will become a Buckeye, one of six Ohio players among the 19 currently committed to an Ohio State 2017 recruiting class ranked as the nation's second-best.

Call me naive or stubborn or old-fashioned, but there's just something about that number that doesn't sit right. Six of 19. (Call it six, not five, because though cornerback Marcus Williamson finished his high school career at IMG Academy in Florida, he's a Westerville native who was recruited by Ohio State there.)

That's not a lot of Ohio. That was something that never felt right as I wondered for months if this 6-foot-5 receiver, ranked as the No. 184 player in this class, would have a spot with the Buckeyes.

Those who know recruiting best always figured Harris would have a place in Columbus if he wanted it, and after the sports awards Thursday, Harris assured me that was the case. He said he was in constant contact with Urban Meyer, receivers coach Zach Smith and Tony Alford, the assistant in charge of Cleveland recruiting.

"They basically told me they'd make room," Harris said. "So at the end of the day, I knew I had a spot at home."

* Jaylen Harris recruiting profile

So maybe there was no need for consternation around Harris, only around the number. Ohio talent isn't at a peak this year - 2018 is viewed as a better overall group. According to the 247sports.com state rankings, the Buckeyes will sign four of the top five players in Ohio, five of the top seven, and six of the top 11.

Ohio State getting Harris is more important for the Buckeyes than getting that offer from Ohio State was for Harris. He had options. He'd be fine. But as the Buckeyes go more national in their recruiting, they wouldn't be who they are if they didn't add a player like Harris.

The Buckeyes can't talk all year about beating Michigan if they're spending most of their time explaining why the rivalry is important. You can't tout the history on the walls of the Woody Hayes Athletic Center if most of the team knows nothing about it. It's not about ignoring the other 49 states. That's no way to win. Meyer won at Florida and won here because he went and got the best players in the country. 

But an Ohio heart needs to beat within the program. 

It's not an issue of taking care of home-state kids. It's an issue of building the best program. Having an Ohio foundation makes this program better, keeps it grounded, maintains strong relationships with high school coaches and makes the Buckeyes win more.

So it matters who Harris is, but also where he's from. He'll bring a body he remade this season with an eye toward playing as a freshman and all the skills you'd want from a tall receiver. Clemson's Mike Williams was dropped as a high-end comparison, and Harris accepted it.

"He's probably my favorite receiver in college right now. He's definitely a beast," Harris said. 

Ranked as the No. 30 receiver in this class, it sure seems like Harris' body of work might deserve to have him ranked higher.

"I feel like I'm the No. 1 receiver in the country," Harris said. "I would never let rankings tell me how I performed on the field."

Harris also doesn't need to be sold on Ohio State, his favorite team growing up. Buckeyes can come from anywhere. But every year, Ohio State must have room for a player like Harris.

"Coach Meyer always talked about trying to keep the best talent home," Harris said. "I feel like I'm definitely a key piece. ... A lot of schools were recruiting me hard, but Ohio State stayed on top and never stopped going after me. It's definitely big for both of us."

It's a little bigger for the Buckeyes. Fourteen players in this OSU class are ranked higher than Harris. But to see him Thursday night, and to see the shape of this recruiting class, you knew he was a player that the Buckeyes couldn't do without.

PODCASTS

Breaking down Ohio State's 2017 recruiting class

Is Ohio State's recruiting getting too national?

Here's where to watch, listen and stream the Cleveland Cavaliers' game vs. the Oklahoma City Thunder today.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers play Game 46 of the 2016 NBA season Sunday against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Here's how to watch, listen and stream the action online.

What: Cleveland Cavaliers (31-14) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (28-19).
Where: Quicken Loans Arena.
When: 3:30 p.m.
TV: ABC.
Radio: WTAM 1100 AM; 87.7 FM La Mega; ESPN Radio.
Online: WatchESPN.

OKC notable: During the month of January, the Thunder is playing 12 of 15 games on the road, traveling more than 16,000 miles while logging nearly 40 hours of flight time. Through 22 road games this year the Thunder posted a record of 14-8, which equaled the start for OKC last year.

Cleveland notable: The Cavaliers have won three straight over the Thunder, outscoring OKC by an average of 12.3 points including a 23-point road win last February. The Cavs have held the Thunder to 42 percent shooting from the field and 29 percent from 3-point range.

Catch the coverage from before the game; join in the live chat starting at tipoff; and stick around for full postgame coverage. For all Cavs information, be sure to check out cleveland.com/cavs.

Get the latest updates and analysis from the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 46 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday in Game 46 of the 2016 NBA regular season.

Follow along in the comments section as Joe Vardon and Chris Fedor bring you observations and analysis throughout the game.

Make sure to follow Vardon and Fedor on Twitter.

Game 45: Cavs (31-14) vs. Thunder (28-19)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. at Quicken Loans Arena.

TV/radio: ABC; WTAM 1100 AM; 87.7 FM (ESP); ESPN Radio.

Cavs probable starting lineup: LeBron James, Kevin Love, Tristan Thompson, Iman Shumpert, Kyrie Iriving.

Thunder probable starting lineup: BAndre Roberson, Domantas Sabonis, Steven Adams, Victor Oladipo, Russell Westbrook.

FREQUENTLY REFRESH this page to get the latest updates. If you're viewing this on a mobile app, click here

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