Spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin predicted two changes in India’s playing 11 for the second Test against South Africa. They are hosting the Proteas for a two-match series. The second Test will begin on November 22 in Guwahati. India lost the first Test by 30 runs in Kolkata. In what came as a huge blow, captain Shubman Gill has reportedly been released from the squad following the neck injury he sustained during the first Test. Ashwin reckoned that Sai Sudharsan would replace Gill for the second Test. He added that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy could come in for Axar Patel. The veteran reflected that there was no need for four spinners in the side and believed that it caused problems for the hosts in the first Test. “I feel Sai will come in the place of Gill and Nitish for Axar Patel. If you want variety in the spin, there is enough variety with Jadeja, Washi, and Kuldeep. I am not saying it is a huge mistake but if you have more options, you can get confused in contemplating giving spinners more chances. If Axar did not play in Kolkata, Pant would have started with Bumrah. If you are playing Nitish, you have to be very clear about who your strike bowlers will be,” he said on ‘Ash Ki Baat’. In the same conversation, discarded India batter Ajinkya Rahane stated that bringing in Nitish Kumar Reddy for Gill would mean having an extra all-rounder. He reckoned that Gill should be replaced only by a pure batter. Sai Sudharsan played in the second Test against the West Indies and did well. He scored 87 in the first innings and 39 in the second. However, he was dropped for the first Test against South Africa. Ajinkya Rahane on what Rishabh Pant needs to do as India captain in the second Test With Shubman Gill ruled out of the second Test, Rishabh Pant will lead in his absence in Guwahati. Pant led the team in Kolkata as well after Gill did not take part after the first innings, having retired hurt. Ajinkya Rahane reckoned that it would be important for Pant to plan well and back his abilities as a captain. He added that Pant would have to give players the confidence and believe in his methods. “Rishabh has to back his style and methods. It is important to plan as well. You need to have three or four options ready. It is not possible without planning. The opposition is also a quality team. They will want to win the series. So Rishabh will have to back his ability and his methods. He will have to give the players some confidence. There is no time in a two-match series,” he said. India are in a must-win situation going into the second Test. Having lost in Kolkata, they cannot afford to lose in Guwahati as it would result in a 2-0 series whitewash. The hosts will aim to draw level and come back strong.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-i-feel-sai-will-come-in-r-ashwin-predicts-two-changes-team-india-ahead-ind-vs-sa-2025-2nd-test
Tag: conversation
The Game Awards 2025 nominees & how to vote
We’re almost at the end of 2025, giving us another fantastic year of gaming. As we round into the final months of the year, there’s little left other than to talk about Game of the Year, and Geoff Keighley’s The Game Awards once again returns to stir up that conversation in December. This week, the nominees were announced, with the show committee submitting their picks for this year’s categories. Read on to see what made it in for each award and how to vote on the final winners. Last updated on November 17, 2025 at 9: 10 p. m. PT. How to vote for The Game Awards 2025 nominees The Game Awards nominees and voting were shared today in a special presentation. Twitch, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter/X accounts are valid for voting. Once you’re logged in, you can move along to casting your ballot per category. The site may be bogged down in the early hours after nominees are announced. Bear in mind, you only get to make one choice per category, per login, so make it count. The Game Awards 2025 nominees Below is the list of The Game Awards 2025 categories and nominees. The list is broken down alphabetically with the exception of the most-sought award, Game of the Year, at the top. Game of the Year Best Action Game Best Action/Adventure Game Most Anticipated Game Best Adaptation Best Art Direction Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Ghost of Yotei Hades 2 Hollow Knight: Silksong Best Audio Design Battlefield 6 Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Ghost of Yotei Silent Hill f Best Community Support Content Creator of the Year Best Debut Indie Game Best Esports Game Best Esports Athlete Best Esports Team Best Family Game Best Fighting Game Best Game Direction Games for Impact Best Indie Game Innovation in Accessibility Best Mobile Game Destiny Rising Persona 5: The Phantom X Sonic Rumble Umamusume: Pretty Derby Wuthering Waves Best Multiplayer Game Best Narrative Best Ongoing Game Final Fantasy 14 Fortnite Helldivers 2 Marvel Rivals No Man’s Sky Best Performance Ben Starr as Verso (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Charlie Cox as Gustave (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Erika Ishii as Atsu (Ghost of Yotei) Jennifer English as Maelle (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Konatsu Kato as Shimizu Hinako (Silent Hill f) Troy Baker as Indiana Jones (Indiana Jones and the Great Circle) Best Role-Playing Game Best Score and Music Christopher Larkin (Hollow Knight: Silksong) Darren Korb (Hades 2) Lorien Testard (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Toma Otowa (Ghost of Yotei) Woodkid & Ludvig Forssell (Death Stranding 2: On the Beach) Best Sports/Racing Game Best Strategy/Sim Game Best VR/AR Game.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146854/the-game-awards-2025-nomimees-voting
The Game Awards 2025 nominees & how to vote
We’re almost at the end of 2025, giving us another fantastic year of gaming. As we round into the final months of the year, there’s little left other than to talk about Game of the Year, and Geoff Keighley’s The Game Awards once again returns to stir up that conversation in December. This week, the nominees were announced, with the show committee submitting their picks for this year’s categories. Read on to see what made it in for each award and how to vote on the final winners. Last updated on November 17, 2025 at 9: 10 p. m. PT. How to vote for The Game Awards 2025 nominees The Game Awards nominees and voting were shared today in a special presentation. Twitch, Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter/X accounts are valid for voting. Once you’re logged in, you can move along to casting your ballot per category. The site may be bogged down in the early hours after nominees are announced. Bear in mind, you only get to make one choice per category, per login, so make it count. The Game Awards 2025 nominees Below is the list of The Game Awards 2025 categories and nominees. The list is broken down alphabetically with the exception of the most-sought award, Game of the Year, at the top. Game of the Year Best Action Game Best Action/Adventure Game Most Anticipated Game Best Adaptation Best Art Direction Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Ghost of Yotei Hades 2 Hollow Knight: Silksong Best Audio Design Battlefield 6 Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Ghost of Yotei Silent Hill f Best Community Support Content Creator of the Year Best Debut Indie Game Best Esports Game Best Esports Athlete Best Esports Team Best Family Game Best Fighting Game Best Game Direction Games for Impact Best Indie Game Innovation in Accessibility Best Mobile Game Destiny Rising Persona 5: The Phantom X Sonic Rumble Umamusume: Pretty Derby Wuthering Waves Best Multiplayer Game Best Narrative Best Ongoing Game Final Fantasy 14 Fortnite Helldivers 2 Marvel Rivals No Man’s Sky Best Performance Ben Starr as Verso (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Charlie Cox as Gustave (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Erika Ishii as Atsu (Ghost of Yotei) Jennifer English as Maelle (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Konatsu Kato as Shimizu Hinako (Silent Hill f) Troy Baker as Indiana Jones (Indiana Jones and the Great Circle) Best Role-Playing Game Best Score and Music Christopher Larkin (Hollow Knight: Silksong) Darren Korb (Hades 2) Lorien Testard (Clair Obscur: Expedition 33) Toma Otowa (Ghost of Yotei) Woodkid & Ludvig Forssell (Death Stranding 2: On the Beach) Best Sports/Racing Game Best Strategy/Sim Game Best VR/AR Game.
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146854/the-game-awards-2025-nomimees-voting
Kam Williams settling into his role, but Mark Pope wants more
On the same day Kentucky basketball played Tennessee in the Sweet 16 this past March, they landed a commit in the transfer portal in Kam Williams from Tulane. A sharpshooter with the Green Wave last season, Williams initially struggled through the Wildcats’ exhibition games and first couple of regular-season matchups.
However, a five-point performance at Louisville on Tuesday, which included a 3-pointer, may have put him on track to become the player Kentucky fans believe he can be.
Williams spoke after Kentucky’s 99-53 victory over Eastern Illinois on Friday night about the role he envisions for himself this season.
“Make 3s and play defense. If I’m not hitting 3s, do something else,” Williams said. “I can’t really be upset when I’m missing shots, because I can contribute in other ways on defense. I can still bring energy.”
On Friday night, Williams made two 3-pointers while also contributing two rebounds, an assist, and a steal. For the season, he has accumulated 13 points and 12 rebounds. He is shooting 5-for-12 from the field, including 3-for-10 from beyond the arc, but has been hotter recently — going 3-for-5 from deep over his last two games.
Head coach Mark Pope shared that he hoped the team would be further along in terms of defining their identity at this point in the season. Regarding Pope’s comments on players embracing their “special sauce” and unique skill sets to love their game, Williams responded:
“Really just staying in myself, not trying to do anything outside of what I was brought here for,” he said. “Everybody has a role. NBA players have a role. Trying to step out of your role is where mistakes and accidents happen.”
Following Kentucky’s loss to Louisville, Pope expressed pride in Williams’ effort and emphasized his hopes for the sophomore’s continued improvement.
“I have the same conversation with Kam every single day, and that is about him being more aggressive, more assertive, and more physical,” Pope said.
With Jaland Lowe out, Kentucky will undoubtedly need Williams to step up as the season progresses.
https://sports.yahoo.com/article/kam-williams-settling-role-mark-110900367.html
General Hospital Wednesday, November 12 Recap: Dalton Busts Rocco in the Lab, Danny & Charlotte Panic
**General Hospital (GH) Recap: Wednesday, November 12**
On Wednesday’s episode of *General Hospital*, Professor Henry “Hank” Dalton (Daniel Goddard) caught Rocco Falconeri (Finn Carr) trespassing in the lab. Meanwhile, Danny Morgan (Asher Antonyzyn) and Charlotte Cassadine (Bluesy Burke) were panicking over the situation.
Brook Lynn Quartermaine (Amanda Setton) arrived with Harrison Chase (Josh Swickard) and Jason Morgan (Steve Burton), anxious to know if Ned Quartermaine (Wally Kurth) was going to be okay. Britt Westbourne (Kelly Thiebaud) was frank about Ned’s critical “widowmaker” heart condition and felt Portia Robinson (Brook Kerr) was being overly cautious by delaying his bypass surgery, which Britt insisted needed to happen immediately.
Portia pulled Britt aside to admonish her for alarming the family and reminded her that the decision wasn’t hers to make. Jason eventually escorted Britt away and took her to Bobbie’s, where she vented about her job frustrations. Britt blamed Jason for making her return to Port Charles, but he offered her a pep talk. Jason was clearly glad Britt was back and assumed Ned felt the same, as she had saved his life.
Back at General Hospital, it was decided that Ned’s surgery should proceed as soon as possible. Brook Lynn also learned that Giovanni “Gio” Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza) had played a significant role in saving Ned. Hearing Gio affectionately call Ned “Grandpa” moved Brook Lynn deeply. In a quiet moment with Emma Scorpio-Drake (Braedyn Bruner), Gio expressed regret over the time he had wasted not getting to know Ned better. Although Gio worried their earlier bonding might be all he’d get, Emma remained hopeful, stating that Ned was a true fighter.
Meanwhile, Rocco, Danny, and Charlotte broke into the research lab using Britt’s stolen key fob. The teens were surprised to find no animals being tested but continued to search the lab anyway. Danny had more at stake, already being in trouble and barred from seeing Scout Quartermaine (Cosette Abinante), but he refused to abandon Rocco and Charlotte during the search.
When they heard Dalton approaching, the teens quickly turned off the lights and hid. As it became clear Dalton was going to find Danny and Charlotte, Rocco sacrificed himself by making noise, drawing Dalton’s attention. Dalton confronted Rocco and took him out of the lab, threatening arrest for breaking and entering. Rocco’s selfless act ensured that Danny and Charlotte were not caught, which they acknowledged once alone in the lab.
Soon after, Danny and Charlotte arrived at Bobbie’s with updates on Rocco. Both Jason and Britt were stunned to learn that Rocco had been busted for the lab break-in the teens had conducted.
In Alexis Davis’ (Nancy Lee Grahn) office, Drew Cain (Cameron Mathison) praised her for securing Willow Tait’s (Katelyn MacMullen) release. Drew expressed his desire to focus on clearing Willow’s name and ensuring Michael Corinthos (Rory Gibson) is held accountable for shooting him. Alexis argued that they needed to present multiple suspects and insisted she only had one chance to get Willow off the hook.
Still, Drew believed Michael was to blame and brought Martin Grey (Michael E. Knight) in as co-counsel to help make that case. Alexis later spoke privately with Martin and persuaded him to her way of thinking. Martin agreed to try convincing Drew as well but warned Alexis to brace herself for Drew’s wrath if the Willow defense strategy failed in court.
At Metro Court Gardens, Wiley Corinthos (Viron Weaver) spotted Willow from afar and ran into her arms. Willow then approached a table where Michael and Jacinda Bracken (Paige Hershell) were sitting with Wiley, creating tension. Willow took subtle jabs at Jacinda before learning she was Nina Reeves’ (Cynthia Watros) new assistant. This led Willow to suspect Michael had something to do with Jacinda’s arrival.
Michael suggested it was time to head home and get Wiley to bed, but Wiley insisted Jacinda should come along so she could meet his stuffed spider. Once Michael and Jacinda agreed, Willow’s frustration grew.
Willow then privately confronted Michael, accusing him of letting Wiley be around an escort and ranting that she knew he planted the gun in her room. After the tense exchange with Willow, Michael shared a more pleasant moment with Jacinda in the Quartermaine kitchen, admitting he wanted the kids to meet Jacinda and confirming their alibi was airtight.
Willow later complained to Drew about the encounter with Michael. Drew remained confident Michael would be held responsible for shooting him, which would mean Willow could regain custody of the kids.
Despite Laura Collins’ (Genie Francis) disapproval over Martin changing Monica Quartermaine’s (Leslie Charleson) will, she appreciated his support ahead of the upcoming mayoral debate. There was also talk about Laura possibly appointing Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) as PCPD’s interim police commissioner in place of Anna Devane (Finola Hughes).
Laura was concerned that Ezra Boyle (Daniel Cosgrove) would use Dante’s mobster family connections against her and worried about Rocco getting caught in the crossfire, given he was both her grandson and Sonny Corinthos’ (Maurice Benard) grandson.
Laura exchanged barbs with Ezra before Dalton arrived and dragged Rocco in, calling for his arrest over the lab break-in.
**General Hospital spoilers** promise that Laura will have some fires to put out following these events, so stay tuned!
https://www.celebdirtylaundry.com/2025/general-hospital-wednesday-november-12-recap-dalton-busts-rocco-in-the-lab-danny-charlotte-panic/
Ex-Terrorist Leader Goes On Fox News, Gives Wild Answer About 9/11
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa deflected responsibility for the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks during a Fox News interview on Monday. Nearly 3,000 people died across New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pa., during the 9/11 attacks, according to the Pew Research Center.
When asked directly on “Special Report with Bret Baier” if he regrets the attack, al-Sharaa distanced himself entirely from the event.
“I was only 19 years old, so I was a very young person, and I didn’t have any decision-making power at that time, and I don’t have anything to do with it,” al-Sharaa said. “And al-Qaeda was not present right then in my area. So you’re speaking to the wrong person about this subject.”
The Syrian leader then shifted the conversation.
**WATCH:** “We mourn for every civilian that got killed, and we know that people suffer from the war, especially civilians who pay the price, a hefty price for the war,” al-Sharaa said.
President Donald Trump hosted al-Sharaa at the White House on Monday, welcoming the former al-Qaeda member who once fought U.S. forces in Iraq and served time in Abu Ghraib prison. The U.S. government removed al-Sharaa from its terror list just days before his meeting with Trump, according to CBS News.
Al-Sharaa, who led a rebel coalition that toppled Bashar al-Assad’s regime in December 2024 while heading the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has since recast himself as a pro-Western reformer. Legacy media outlets have described his government as “moderate” compared to Assad’s rule.
*(RELATED: Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa Shoots Hoops With US Military Officials Ahead Of White House Visit)*
The visit marks the first time a Syrian head of state has entered the White House since Syria gained independence in 1946, NPR reported. Trump, during a speech in Saudi Arabia, said in May that he would lift U.S. sanctions on Syria.
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https://dailycaller.com/2025/11/11/ahmed-al-sharaa-fox-news-911/
Where to find the key to the door in the cellar – Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2
After searching the cellar during the **Anamnesis** quest in *Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2*, you will encounter a locked door that blocks your progress. To continue, you need to find the key to this cellar door. However, the game provides no clear hint about where to find the key. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you locate it and move forward in the quest.
### Finding the Cellar Door Key
The first step is to speak with **Zdenyek**, who can be found at the north end of the monastery grounds. Talk to him about **Blazhena**. Zdenyek will mention that he suspected Blazhena of stealing food since only the two of them had keys to the pantry where the food was stored. He’d actually planned to get rid of her before she fell ill. He’ll ask you to promise not to tell anyone about his suspicions.
Next, find **Valerie**, the blonde maid nearby. Before you check her, it’s important to note that if you talk to Valerie first, she’ll refuse to speak openly in front of Zdenyek. So instead, head over to Blazhena’s room, which she shares with Valerie.
### Searching Blazhena’s Room
Blazhena’s room is in the small building at the top of the courtyard. Enter through the back right door and then go upstairs. Blazhena’s bed is the one closest to the window. Check the chest at the foot of her bed—you’ll find a large amount of money inside, suspiciously too much for a maid.
On a shelf near the head of the bed, you will find the **pantry key**. Take this key and then go back to talk to Valerie.
### Talking to Valerie and Investigating the Pantry
Valerie will tell you that she witnessed Zdenyek taking something from Blazhena’s chest and being harsh toward her. She also reveals the existence of a nearby cellar that Zdenyek often visits, which turns out to be the pantry. This pantry location will now be marked on your map.
Head to the pantry and thoroughly explore all three rooms. Examine the wine barrels, tubs of water, and crates in each room. Some areas will require lockpicking to access.
After investigating, Henry will realize that Zdenyek has been watering down the monastery’s wine. It’s time to confront him.
### Confronting Zdenyek
When you confront him, Zdenyek will ask to speak privately in a nearby field. You’ll have the choice to go with him or refuse. It is recommended to go with him if you want to obtain a weapon.
In the field, Zdenyek will attempt to attack you. Defend yourself and defeat him. Once he’s subdued, demand his axe. He will also surrender the key to the cellar door, which he took from Blazhena’s chest.
### Final Step
With the key in hand, return to the main cellar where you first found the secret door. You can now unlock the door and continue your investigation.
—
Following these steps will help you progress in the Anamnesis quest and uncover more about the unfolding mystery at the monastery. Good luck!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146745/where-to-find-the-key-to-the-cellar-door-kingdom-come-deliverance-2
SCOOP: Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani’s Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic shelved due to script issues
Earlier this year, Bollywood stalwarts Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani announced their much-anticipated reunion for a third time, collaborating on the yet untitled Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic. The announcement sparked a wave of excitement among fans and industry watchers alike, especially after their successful collaborations in cult films like *3 Idiots* and *P.K.*
However, in a surprising development, the duo has decided to put the Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic on hold.
### SCOOP: Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani’s Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic Shelved Due to Script Issues
Reliable sources have confirmed to Bollywood Hungama that Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani, known for their pursuit of perfection, were not satisfied with the current script of the biopic. According to the sources, “Aamir felt that the script is too dry for today’s audience and lacks the signature humour that fans expect from their collaborations.”
Despite numerous rewrite sessions, the duo collectively decided to pause the project. They believe that a personality as iconic as Dadasaheb Phalke deserves a script that is both emotionally stirring and universally engaging. Until they achieve that benchmark, they have no intention of rushing the film into production.
### What’s Next for Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani?
Meanwhile, Aamir Khan is busy reading multiple scripts as he explores options to lock in his next project. “He is currently reviewing at least 20 shortlisted scripts and plans to announce his next film in the first quarter of 2026,” insiders reveal.
Rajkumar Hirani has also begun the process of identifying his next subject and will soon start writing. Although the Dadasaheb Phalke Biopic is on hold, fans can rest assured that Aamir Khan and Rajkumar Hirani will reunite for another project in the near future.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration!
—
**Also Read:**
Rangeela 4K trailer rekindles 90s magic ahead of theatrical re-release on November 28
*For more Bollywood news, keep following our live updates.*
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/scoop-aamir-khan-rajkumar-hiranis-dadasaheb-phalke-biopic-shelved-due-script-issues/
Payton Pritchard on the Boston Celtics season so far, new endorsement deal
When Payton Pritchard was drafted by the Boston Celtics, there was doubt about his NBA fit given his height—just 6-foot-1, undersized even at the point guard position in the NBA—and his relative obscurity to local college basketball fans. Pritchard played for Oregon in the Pacific-12 conference, which meant many Boston fans were unfamiliar with his game.
But the West Linn native took the same relentless approach he has brought to everything in his life and applied it to his NBA career. Despite inconsistent playing time in his first three seasons, Pritchard carved out a rotation spot with the Celtics. Over time, he developed that role into a successful supporting position on a title-contending team and eventually won the NBA’s 2025 Sixth Man of the Year award.
Now, he’s stepping into a starting role with Boston—and picking up some apropos endorsements while he’s at it, including a new partnership with Lucky Energy.
Celtics Wire recently caught up with the former Duck to talk about the season so far, how he and the rest of the roster are adapting to bigger roles, and how his endorsement with Lucky Energy came about. Here’s our conversation with Pritchard as fans await the 2025 NBA Cup game against the Orlando Magic on Friday, November 7.
*(Note: This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.)*
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**Celtics Wire:** Thanks for this, Payton. You’re here to talk about your new sponsorship deal with Lucky Energy, but can we start with the season so far? Rebounding and rim protection have been issues, along with defense and focus. What do you think Boston most needs to address?
**Payton Pritchard:** It’s still early in the season. We’re meshing together, exploring new lineups, and getting used to new roles and rotations. We pride ourselves on playing tough and physical—that’s always been a staple for the Celtics, especially under Coach (Joe Mazzulla). We’ll do our best to correct any issues. I’m not worried about it. It’s a long season, and we’ll get there.
—
**CW:** There’s been noticeable growth among your teammates. Hugo Gonzalez looks ready for NBA minutes, Josh Minott is carving out a role, and Luka Garza has been more impactful than some expected. For you, who has shown the most growth, and why?
**PP:** I like our entire roster: young guys, older vets, and everyone in between. We have a group full of guys who show up each day willing to put in the work, and the results will show. I was once a young guy too—you just have to keep your head down and keep working. I like them all; they’re good dudes on and off the court.
—
**CW:** As I mentioned, you’re now one of the faces of Lucky Energy, which seems fitting given the gritty nature of the team you play for. How did this partnership come about? And has Lucky, the mascot, had a chance to try the energy drink yet?
**PP:** It was a natural fit. Lucky Energy is all about grit and toughness, which speaks to me. I’m that way on the court, and Boston is like that as a city, so it felt right. Not to mention, it’s the best-tasting energy drink with just five simple ingredients that keep me locked in.
Lucky, the mascot, has so much energy; if he drank Lucky Energy, I don’t know if we could contain him. I’ll give him a can the next time I see him.
—
**CW:** The focus of the campaign fits you perfectly. I immediately thought of that clip of you practicing your handle (you know the one). Tell me more about the campaign, especially since Celtics fans have seen how you became the player you are today.
**PP:** I pride myself on putting in the work when the bright lights aren’t on. There’s a certain toughness and grit you need to play in the NBA, especially for this city and franchise. I try to bring what comes naturally to me—hard work and dedication to my craft—every day.
Lucky Energy is built the same way; it’s for tough, hardworking people.
—
**CW:** I also heard there will be a Boston-focused campaign launching this spring. Can you tell us more about that?
**PP:** I want you to see it for yourself! Boston will be at the forefront of everything I do with Lucky Energy. The campaign is Boston-built. This city has given me so much, and this partnership will give back to the city while highlighting what Boston is all about.
—
**CW:** Help me out with one more detail I noticed about Lucky Energy before you go. I heard you’re not the only Sixth Man of the Year in this campaign. Is that a coincidence? And do you think Anfernee Simons will be a future sponsor after winning Sixth Man of the Year in 2026?
**PP:** I hope Anfernee is holding up that Sixth Man of the Year award in 2026, but I know he isn’t about individual goals. Anfernee is here to help us win.
Lucky Energy has partnered with Naz Reid and me. Lucky wants the underdogs. The Lucky family is for everyone who’s been doubted before but rises to the occasion.
Go get yourself a can at Shaw’s or Star Market, or on Amazon, and tell me what you think.
—
**CW:** Noted—thanks, Payton!
—
*Listen to “Havlicek Stole the Pod” on [Spotify](#) and [iTunes](#).*
https://celticswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nba/celtics/2025/11/07/payton-pritchard-on-the-celtics-season-so-far-new-endorsement-deal/87133938007/
Rose Abdoo Talks Gilmore Girls 25th Anniversary and Almost Playing Sookie
On October 5, 2000, we were first welcomed into the magical world of Lorelai and Rory Gilmore and Stars Hollow when *Gilmore Girls* premiered on The WB. (Who else remembers the frog?) It hardly feels like it’s been 25 years, and in some ways, it feels like it’s been five minutes. Yet it also feels like it’s been centuries.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary, I’m kicking off a series where I’ll be talking to members of the *Gilmore Girls* cast throughout the next year. First up is the incredible Rose Abdoo, who played town mechanic Gypsy beginning in season 2 and, of course, the iconic additional role of Berta in the 2016 Netflix revival *Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life*.
We spoke all about her journey with the show as well as her latest role in one of the most popular current shows, *Hacks* on HBO Max (which everybody also needs to watch!). Most surprising to me was learning that Rose originally auditioned for the role of Sookie, which later went to Melissa McCarthy. I think we can all agree that everyone on the show was perfectly cast, bringing us the perfect blend of town chaos and coziness.
We also talked about the recent fan events celebrating the show across the country, and Rose’s experience attending Destination Stars Hollow in Brighton, Michigan. Plus, we shared our excitement to once again attend the Warner Bros. Holidays Made Here event on the show’s set in Burbank, California this December.
Of course, we couldn’t dive into this conversation without discussing her other roles in the Amy Sherman-Palladino universe, including her experience on the legendary and canceled-too-soon ABC Family series *Bunheads* starring Sutton Foster. Rose also filmed a pilot with Amy for a show called *The Damn Thorpes*, a family drama set on a farm that unfortunately did not make it to series.
Tune into our full conversation in the video above. And stay tuned for many more *Gilmore Girls* interviews coming soon!
https://nerdreactor.com/rose-abdoo-talks-gilmore-girls-25th-anniversary-and-almost-playing-sookie/
