Morning Hot Reads: Stuck In The Middle

USA TODAY examines the challenges faced by AAC, Mountain West and Conference USA members: "schools in lesser leagues with designs on keeping up with Power Five programs but typically without the means to underwrite their dreams." Meanwhile, the SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS argues the "Big 12 has struggled to find its niche in any of its flagship sports while the booming business of college athletics flourishes around it."

ESPNW.com notes, "The most international game of them all, tennis requires that players travel all over the globe, shifting from one country to another on an almost weekly basis for a season that stretches over 11 months. And unlike athletes in team sports, they pay their own airfares."

Also:

• Some NBA stars are unafraid to speak out on current social issues.
• New Balance's voice heard regarding tariffs on foreign-made goods.
• Will Women's World Cup lead to new soccer league in Canada?
• A trying time for longtime Dean Smith assistant Linda Woods.