On Pro Basketball

A Player, and a Nets Team, Shaped to Challenge the Heat

By HOWARD BECK

Alex Trautwig/Getty Images

In 11 seasons, 30-year-old Gerald Wallace had quietly established himself as a supreme defender with a nose for the ball and a body built for contact.

Gerald Wallace has the hustle, strength, grit and versatility to help mold the identity of the Nets and also lead the charge, with the help of a supporting cast, against Miami.

After having not played in the exhibition season, Rasheed Wallace has 16 points and 6 rebounds in 21 minutes over three games.

Wallace Giving Knicks Quality Time and Tips

By NATE TAYLOR

Rasheed Wallace, at 38 and coming out of retirement, has been a big surprise for the Knicks, who are 3-0 for the first time since 1999.

Paul Sakuma/Associated Press

Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers (24) was called for a penalty in 2011 after celebrating a touchdown in front of the fans.

Study Looks at Bias in Celebration Penalty Calls

By NICHOLAS BAKALAR

A study asked a group of participants to reward fictitious players for their behavior after a touchdown. The results showed a significant difference in fouls called on black players.

The Fifth Down

The Bears’ defense ranks second in fewest points allowed and sixth in rushing yards allowed. In addition, it has returned seven interceptions for touchdowns.

In Chicago, Monsters of Midway Are Back

By CHASE STUART

The Bears' defense is as dominant as ever, and the special teams have been outstanding. But whether Chicago can win another Super Bowl may depend on the offense.

Leading Off

Andy Reid might not have to worry about whether starting Michael Vick at quarterback is the right move any longer.

Reid’s Eagles Are in Disarray

By LYNN ZINSER

The Philadelphia Eagles have rushed to the front of the pack of N.F.L. chaos, and some sports columnists feel the team has quit on Coach Andy Reid, who will spend the rest of the season regarded as already fired.

Craig Ruttle/Associated Press

Mary Wittenberg, second from right, and the New York Road Runners made contributions Sunday to those affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Hostility Lingers Over Marathon Cancellation

By KEN BELSONand MARY PILON

The challenge for New York Road Runners is how to recover from last week’s race cancellation without too much damage to its finances and reputation.

Liverpool’s Luis Suárez, center, in a familiar pose: on the turf and pleading with the referee for a foul. His supporters say he is treated unfairly, a victim of his reputation.

The Striker Who Cried Wolf

By STEVEN COTTON

The English Premier League has long been home to divisive figures. But few have stirred such powerful and contrasting feelings in fans as has Liverpool’s Luis Suárez.

Courtney Force never had much doubt that she would grow up to do what her father does — race 8,000-horsepower cars down a strip at speeds well over 300 miles per hour.

Rookie’s Need for Speed Is Inherited From Father

By DAVE CALDWELL

Lining up next to the drag-racing legend John Force can be intimidating for any rookie. But not for Courtney Force, who became a contender to win the national title that her 63-year-old father has won 15 times.

League and Players Union Resume Bargaining, but Progress Isn’t Guaranteed

By JEFF Z. KLEIN

The N.H.L. and players’ association were back at the bargaining table Tuesday, a constructive turn in the seven-week lockout.

Something a Bit Different at the G.M. Meetings: a Splashy Agenda

By JORGE ARANGURE Jr.

Instant replay is likely to be a significant issue at this week’s baseball general manager meetings, where the potential for a high-profile free-agent signing has increased.

Slide Show: Too Fast? Too Soon?

Two Texas sisters, ages 12 and 10, combined have competed in more than 160 races in the last two years, most of which covered mileage meant to challenge adults.