It is with great pleasure that we have brought back the Notinhalloffame MLB Regular Cup, and let us explain how this works:

For every regular-season game, we anointed the best five players with descending points, 5-4-3-2-1. 

We know the following:

• The top players for the MLB NIHOF Cup are not always the best in the league, as injuries keep players out of games, and a premium on staying healthy can help pile up points. It also does not hurt to be a top player on an average or mediocre team, as they can amass Cup points more easily than elite players on loaded squads.
• In Baseball, it is more common than in Basketball and Hockey for a player to accrue points with a single Home Run in a game, which favors position players. Starting Pitchers have a hard time with approximately 30-35 Starts and throwing fewer innings than previous generations. This is also true for closers not made for this process.
• Please remember that this is NOT necessarily who we think were the best players this year and does not reflect overall consistency. Treat this the way we did: as a fun process and more of a compilation of temporary statistical domination.

Here is the current top ten after games concluded on June 23.

1. Aaron Judge, New York Yankees: 125 Cup Points in 78 Games. (#1 Last Week).  5.6 bWAR, 68 Runs, 106 Hits, 28 Home Runs, 62 Runs Batted In, .367/.468/.734 Slash Line, 1.202 OPS & 231 OPS+.

2. Pete Alonso, New York Mets: 108 Cup Points in 79 Games. (#2 Last Week).   2.7 bWAR, 43 Runs, 85 Hits, 18 Home Runs, 64 Runs Batted In, .286/.380/.549 Slash Line, .929 OPS & 164 OPS+.

3. Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers:  95 Cup Points in 77 Games.  (#3 Last Week).  3.6 bWAR, 76 Runs, 89 Hits, 26 Home Runs, 49 Runs Batted In, .291/.390/.624 Slash Line, 1.014 OPS & 182 OPS+.

4. Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners: 94 Cup Points in 76 Games. (#7 Last Week).   4.4 bWAR, 57 Runs, 79 Hits, 32 Home Runs, 68 Runs Batted In, .278/.383/.665 Slash Line, 1.049 OPS & 202 OPS+.

5. Riley Greene, Detroit Tigers:  89 Cup Points in 77 Games.  (Not in the Top Ten Last Week).  2.3 bWAR, 42 Runs, 86 Hits, 17 Home Runs, 59 Runs Batted In, .291/.345/.530 Slash Line, .875 OPS & 144 OPS+.

6. (TIE) Francisco Lindor, New York Mets: 88 Cup Points in 77 Games. (#3 Last Week).   2.8 bWAR, 47 Runs, 78 Hits, 14 Home Runs, 38 Runs Batted In, .279/.353/.475 Slash Line, .828 OPS & 138 OPS+.

6. (TIE) James Wood, Washington Nationals: 88 Cup Points in 79 Games. (#8 Last Week).   3.9 bWAR, 50 Runs, 85 Hits, 22 Home Runs, 61 Runs Batted In, .284/.379/.569 Slash Line, .948 OPS & 167 OPS+.

8. Rafael Devers, San Francisco Giants: 85 Cup Points in 79 Games.  (#5 Last Week).  2.4 bWAR, 49 Runs, 79 Hits, 16 Home Runs, 61 Runs Batted In, .268/.394/.495 Slash Line, .889 OPS & 148 OPS+.

9. Manny Machado, San Diego Padres: 84 Cup Points in 78 Games. (#8 Last Week).  2.9 bWAR, 52 Runs, 90 Hits, 13 Home Runs, 47 Runs Batted In, .303/.366/.502 Slash Line, .867 OPS & 139 OPS+.

10. Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins:  84 Cup Points in 61 Games.  (Not in the Top Ten Last Week).  2.9 bWAR, 46 Runs, 65 Hits, 17 Home Runs, 47 Runs Batted In, .280/.347/.565 Slash Line, .912 OPS & 149 OPS+.

The Chicago Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong, Detroit’s Spencer Torkelson, and Kansas City’s Bobby Witt Jr. fell out of the Top Ten.

Notably, 927 baseball players have earned at least 1 point, up from 910 last week.

What the trajectory of professional development looks like in youth basketball, the influence of infrastructure, training, and social environment on performance.  

Youth Basketball Development: Training, Exposure, and Pathways to the Pros

Betting on youth basketball is becoming an increasingly popular area of betting. Niche teams are performing well, and many exclusive markets have increased odds that will appeal to anyone who wants to make money from their bets. 

In this article, we with inthezonesports.biz take an in-depth look at key aspects of developing young basketball players: training methods, the importance of game practice and tournaments or international exchanges, and the actual journey from the school court to the professional arena.

Training Process

Let's look at the main directions in the training of young athletes. 

Ball Handling and Basic Skills

The foundation of a successful basketball career is confident ball handling. As part of this task, athletes must master dribbling - the ability to dribble with both hands at different speeds, playing with changes in direction and speed, as well as passes and their variations - chest, one-handed, shoulder, and catching the ball under pressure. Throws also play a big role in the preparation - setting the hands, footwork, mastering throws from movement, standing, jumping, from corners and middle distances.

Without these basic skills, further development is impossible. Regular practice of technique in training builds automaticity, simplifies decision making and contributes to game efficiency.

Physical Fitness and Endurance

Basketball requires not only masterful ball handling, but also excellent physical fitness. The training programme for young athletes should include: 

• Strength exercises for the legs, corset and shoulder girdle so that athletes can withstand physical pressure;
• Speed and strength training including sprints, jumping jacks, reaction exercises;
• Aerobic and anaerobic endurance - interval training, cross-country;
• Alternating loads as well as developing co-ordination and mobility - working in ladders, stability and balance exercises.

The variety of loads helps you avoid injury, develop a full body and stay competitive on the court.

Coaching and Individualisation

Effective training depends on a proper coaching approach that includes an assessment of each athlete's strengths and weaknesses, a balanced programme that takes into account technical, tactical and physical aspects, a gradual increase in difficulty as the level of training increases, attention to mental toughness, teamwork and leadership. A responsible coach will always help young athletes to develop potential qualities and overcome risk zones.

Participation in Competitions

The true potential of athletes in youth basketball is revealed only when they participate in competitions.

Local and Regional Tournaments

Getting to the highest level starts with regular participation in matches. Local championships, street tournaments and school competitions provide invaluable experience. Athletes learn to analyse game situations in real time, acquire the ability to adapt to the opponent's level, develop a deeper understanding of the rules of play, defence, rebounding and shot selection. 

Open Camps and Screenings

Participation in specialised basketball camps is an opportunity to make a name for yourself and attract the attention of clubs and leagues. Most of these events are conducted with the participation of professional coaches, scouts and university programme coaches. At the camps, athletes receive professional feedback, the opportunity to get in front of managers and scouts, and to get involved in the talent point programme of the system.

International Tournaments and Exchanges

For the most ambitious young basketball players, participating in international tournaments brings great experience. Here you can compare yourself with participants from other countries, adapt to different styles of play, and get noticed by foreign coaches or colleges. This experience often becomes a turning point in the careers of many athletes.

Ambition and Development

Let's look at what their trajectory looks like according to different types of interventions.

Junior Careers and Professional Clubs

The youth programmes of professional teams provide key resources: coaching staff, recreational facilities, and regular opponents. Once in a youth academy, an athlete receives psychophysiological support, individual training plans, mentoring from experienced athletes, and a stable playing load.

College or University

Many professionals started out in college leagues in the United States. It is a full range of educational support, an opportunity to combine sport and study, a visible stage for NBA scouts and agencies. Even users who have not gone to the USA get experience, participation in the university system or exchange programmes for new knowledge and connections.

Contracts, Agents and the Transition to Adult Basketball

The appearance of an agent is important: he helps to negotiate contracts, transfers and sponsorship agreements. Before entering the professional world, the young man undergoes psychological and social training, learns financial literacy, and manages his public image.

Mental Development

It is equally important to keep an eye on your emotional state during gameplay. 

Work on Psychological Resilience

Professional training includes stress training, concentration development and emotion control techniques. It is important for young men to be able to manage anxiety, maintain composure, and recover from setbacks.

Goals, Motivation and Responsibility

Only a clear vision and planning help a young man to stay on track. Short and long-term goals are important (current training, year, 3-5 years), work on self-control and discipline and a balanced life: basketball, studies, holidays, family.

Role of Environment and Support

The training process will not be effective unless the appropriate context is created for it. 

Infrastructure, Accessibility and Resources

Infrastructure support - gyms, courts, medical services, camps - is critical for sustained skill growth. Equipment availability depends on investment in co-operation with clubs and federations.

Education and Career Planning

Mixing the game itself with studies gives the athlete an alternative path academic scholarships, exchange programmes, parallel careers (coach, sports analyst), psychological and management support.

Obstacles and Difficult Moments

In training, athletes also face limitations that can affect their performance. 

Injuries and Recovery

Sports are associated with risks. These are often: sprains, bruises, joint injuries. The work of a rehabilitator and a medical approach help to avoid long pauses.

Burnout and Low Motivation

Sometimes too much stress can lead to apathy. It is therefore important to plan rest, diversify leisure time with different types of activity (swimming, yoga, chess) and pause for psychological recovery.

Unfavourable Environment

Many young athletes face social pressure, financial instability and lack of support. Therefore, support from federations, access to grants and scholarships, psychological and social support are extremely important to them.

Youth basketball is not just preparation for professional contracts. It is personality formation: self-discipline, team spirit, leadership mindset. 

There was no doubt who the Arizona Cardinals would take with the first overall pick in 2019; it was going to be Kyler Murray, the dynamic dual-threat Quarterback from Oklahoma who won the 2018 Heisman Trophy.  As of this writing, the book on Murray has received mixed reviews, but it has yet to be finalized.

Murray started as expected, rushing for 544 Yards and throwing for 3,722 Yards with a 20-12 TD-INT ratio.  He easily won the AP Offensive Player of the Year Award, and looked to be on pace to emerge as a top-five NFL pivot.  The following two seasons showcased Murray’s elevation, earning Pro Bowls in 2020 & 2021 with increased yardage and pass efficiency.  He led the Cards to their first playoff berth in six years, but Murray struggled in a one-and-done performance, setting the stage for the next two seasons, during which Kyler and Arizona struggled.

Murray struggled in 2022 and suffered a torn ACL injury late in the year.  He returned halfway through the 2023 season but was still finding his legs.  Last season, Murray was healthy and approached his Pro Bowl level output (3,851 PY, 21-11 TD-INT), and finds himself in 2025 in what could be a crossroads season. 

Football isn't just a sport in Australia—it's a lifestyle. Australians love their footy, passionately supporting their clubs and eagerly following each match. But the thrill doesn't have to end with the final whistle. Football-themed online slots offer a unique opportunity to combine this sporting excitement with the rush of casino gaming, creating a perfect blend of action and rewards.

When it comes to football-themed online slots, Australians have a standout choice. Ricky Casino has quickly become a popular hub for players seeking top-quality gaming experiences, offering a fantastic range of football slots designed to captivate both sports enthusiasts and casino lovers alike. With engaging graphics, generous bonuses, and thrilling gameplay, Ricky Casino is setting the standard for football slot entertainment.

In this article, we'll explore some of the most popular football-themed slots you can enjoy, dive into their unique features, and share helpful strategies to maximize your winnings. Get ready to kick off a winning streak!

Why Australians Love Football-Themed Slots

Football isn't just a game to Australians—it's embedded in their daily life and cultural spirit. From local clubs and weekend matches to grand finals, the energy surrounding football is infectious. It's no surprise that this passion translates seamlessly into online entertainment, particularly football-themed slots. Australians embrace these games as a thrilling extension of their love for the sport, blending competitive excitement with gaming fun.

There are several key reasons Australians are drawn to football-themed slots:

• Sporting Atmosphere: Realistic graphics and stadium sounds recreate the thrilling vibe of match day.
• Engaging Features: Unique bonus rounds inspired by football events, such as penalty shootouts and free kicks.
• Connection to Favourite Teams: Symbols and characters often reflect beloved players and clubs, heightening emotional engagement.
• Generous Payouts: Attractive jackpots and winning potentials amplify the excitement of every spin.
• Community Experience: Online platforms, such as Ricky Casino, provide players a vibrant community to share their passion and experiences.

All these factors combine to create an immersive gaming environment, making football-themed slots especially popular among Australian audiences.

Top 10 Football Slots at Ricky Casino: Aussie Players' Picks

Ricky Casino offers Australian players a stellar lineup of football-themed slots, blending exciting gameplay with appealing payout opportunities. We've handpicked the ten standout games that combine immersive football action with rewarding casino thrills:

Score Big with "Football Glory"

Football Glory by Yggdrasil is an immersive slot that brings stadium excitement to the reels. Featuring high-quality visuals and dynamic gameplay, players can unlock features like Superstar Mode, delivering guaranteed wilds for impressive wins. With an RTP of 96.1%, it's well-suited for both casual and seasoned gamers seeking balanced thrills.

High Stakes Action: "Knockout Football" Series

Habanero's Knockout Football and Knockout Football Rush slots deliver rapid gameplay and abundant ways to win. The innovative Knockout Bonus and multiplier-rich rounds keep players engaged, making these slots top choices for football and casino enthusiasts alike. With RTPs at 96.8%, they're perfect for high-adrenaline seekers.

Ignite Your Game with "Hot Football" and "Football Ultimate Champions' King"

Gamzix slots Hot Football and Football Ultimate Champions' King attract attention with vibrant visuals and engaging mechanics. Players enjoy features like Expanding Symbols and generous Free Spins, ideal for those chasing big rewards in a vivid football setting.

Unique Gameplay: "Diamond Plus Football Edition" and "Jack Potter & The Book of Football"

Spinomenal and Onlyplay offer distinctive twists with Diamond Plus Football Edition and Jack Potter & The Book of Football. Featuring creative bonus rounds and gameplay twists, these slots are perfect for players craving innovative experiences beyond standard reels.

Thrills at Every Kick: "Penalty Kick" and "Shaolin Soccer"

Evoplay's Penalty Kick brings the intensity of a penalty shootout directly to the reels, while PG Soft's Shaolin Soccer creatively merges football with martial arts. Both offer exciting multipliers, engaging bonus rounds, and strong payout potential for Australian slot lovers.

Winning Strategies for Football Slot Enthusiasts

Enjoying football-themed slots is more exciting when paired with the right strategy. While slots depend heavily on chance, players can still enhance their gaming experience and boost potential winnings with a few smart tips.

Here are practical strategies for football slot enthusiasts:

• Manage Your Bankroll: Set a clear budget and stick to it. Decide your bet size wisely to enjoy prolonged gameplay and better manage potential losses.
• Understand Game Mechanics: Before diving into spins, take a moment to familiarize yourself with each slot's features, volatility, and RTP. Choosing slots with higher RTP typically improves your chances of sustained wins.
• Use Bonuses Wisely: Take advantage of welcome bonuses and promotional offers at casinos like Ricky Casino. Bonuses offer additional playtime and increase your chances of scoring big wins without extra cost.
• Switch Slots Regularly: If one game isn't paying out or you're not enjoying the gameplay, feel free to try another. Variety not only maintains interest but can also reveal slots better suited to your style.

By incorporating these strategies into your slot gaming sessions, you can maximize fun and potentially improve your outcomes.

Play Responsibly and Enjoy Football Slots

Football-themed slots provide exceptional entertainment, combining your love of sports with the excitement of online gaming. However, it's crucial to play responsibly, ensuring the experience remains fun and safe.

Ricky Casino promotes responsible gambling practices, offering tools such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and helpful guidelines to manage your gaming habits effectively. Always remember:

• Set a clear limit for your spending and playing time.
• Never chase losses or gamble more than you can comfortably afford.
• Use available casino features to monitor and control your gameplay.

By approaching gaming responsibly, you'll enhance your enjoyment while ensuring the experience stays positive and within your control.

Football-themed slots at Ricky Casino offer a fantastic opportunity for Australian fans to extend their passion for the game beyond the pitch. Whether you're after immersive visuals, exciting bonus rounds, or just the thrill of spinning the reels, these slots deliver on all fronts. By combining smart gameplay strategies and responsible gambling practices, every spin can be both enjoyable and rewarding. Ready to kick off your next winning streak? Ricky Casino has you covered.