Pitino next faces questions from defense (AP)

Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino is used to answering questions from reporters. On Thursday, Pitino will face questions unlike anything he's answered at a press conference. Pitino will retake the stand in the trial of woman accused of demanding millions from him to stay quiet about a sexual liaison between them at an Italian restaurant in Louisville in 2003.

Family mourns death of Lorenzen Wright (AP)

Relatives and friends of Lorenzen Wright gathered Wednesday and grieved for the former NBA player who has been missing for 10 days, as police investigated the discovery of a man's body outside of Memphis. Wright's uncle, Curtis Wright, told The Associated Press that police called the player's father, Herb Wright, Wednesday afternoon with the news he had died.

Chargers TE Gates signs 5-year extension (AP)

Antonio Gates has caught plenty of big passes for the San Diego Chargers, and on Wednesday he hauled in the biggest contract ever given to an NFL tight end. Gates agreed to a $36.175 million, five-year contract extension, with $20.4 million guaranteed, according to a person familiar with the deal, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the figures weren't released.

Cubs 1B Lee rejects trade to Angels (AP)

Chicago Cubs first baseman Derrek Lee has rejected a trade to the Los Angeles Angels, saying he prefers to finish the season with his team. Lee says he "really kind of agonized over" the decision, but that he decided the best thing for himself and his family was to stay in Chicago. The 34-year-old, who has a no-trade clause, also says he plans to play beyond this season and would like to...

Wizards keep Josh Howard with 1-yr. deal (AP)

A person familiar with the deal says Josh Howard has agreed to a one-year contract to return to the Washington Wizards. The person told The Associated Press on Wednesday that Howard is set to come back after playing only four games with the team last season. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal hasn't been signed.