National Sports

OSTRAVA, Czech Republic — Jan Jenik had a goal and an assist as the host Czech Republic opened the world junior hockey championship with a 4-3 win over Russia on Thursday.

BRATISLAVA, Slovakia — Nicole Gosling scored the winner as Canada opened the under-18 women's world championship with a 3-2 overtime victory against Russia on Thursday.

Bianca Andreescu started the season as an up-and-coming teenager eager to make her mark on the WTA Tour. She finished the campaign as one of its top stars.

Bianca Andreescu started the season as an up-and-coming teenager eager to make her mark on the WTA Tour. She finished the campaign as one of its top stars.

Wednesday's Games Pelicans 112, Nuggets 100 NBA Boston at Toronto, 12 p.m. Milwaukee at Philadelphia, 2:30 p.m. Houston at Golden State, 5 p.m. L.A. Clippers at L.A. Lakers, 8 p.m. New Orleans at Denver, 10:30 p.m.

Wednesday's Games Pelicans 112, Nuggets 100 NBA Boston at Toronto, 12 p.m. Milwaukee at Philadelphia, 2:30 p.m. Houston at Golden State, 5 p.m. L.A. Clippers at L.A. Lakers, 8 p.m. New Orleans at Denver, 10:30 p.m. The Canadian Press

TORONTO — Kyle Lowry dressed for the special occasion in shoes with the names of his sons Karter and Kameron.

OSTRAVA, Czech Republic — Canada eased into last year's world junior hockey championship. The host country led its opener against Denmark 3-0 after the first period, 8-0 through two and pumped home six more over the final 20 minutes of a 14-0 romp.

BRISTOL, Conn. — ESPN college football reporter Edward Aschoff, known for his outgoing and friendly personality, dapper dress and great love of sports, has died. He was 34. The sports network announced Aschoff died Tuesday after a brief illness.

TORONTO — Enes Kanter wore his heart on his chest for the Boston Celtics' Christmas Day game in Toronto. The Turkish centre arrived at Scotiabank Arena wearing a black T-shirt that read "Freedom for All.