BC-Sports Showcase Digest

A look ahead to top enterprise and feature stories planned globally by AP Sports. New digests will go out each Thursday and Monday and will be repeated on other weekdays. Please note that story plans may change depending on news and other issues.

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As with all our operations, we welcome and want your feedback. If you have thoughts or questions about the Sports Showcase Digest or the material listed, please reach out to Oskar Garcia, deputy sports editor for presentation and storytelling, at 215-446-6632 or at ogarcia@ap.org.

All times are Eastern.

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THURSDAY, Dec. 13

FBC--FIU-AFTER THE SHOOTING

MIAMI — Anthony Jones' eye is still a bit puffy, and a long scar runs down the side of his neck. They are reminders he doesn't need of an event he'll never forget. The FIU running back is back on the field after being shot in September, and says his second chance at life has brought more perspective than he ever could imagine. By Tim Reynolds. SENT: 800 words, photos, video.

FRIDAY, Dec. 14

FBC--EASTERN MICHIGAN-BEHIND THE SCENES

YPSILANTI, Mich. — Eastern Michigan's football team has stepped out of the shadows created by the neighboring University of Michigan and four professional teams just down the road in the Motor City. The Eagles will face Georgia Southern in the Camellia Bowl on Saturday, earning a spot in postseason play for the second time in three years and just the third time in school history. Coach Chris Creighton grants The Associated Press behind-the-scenes access to see how he, his staff and players have taken the program to unprecedented heights. By Larry Lage. UPCOMING: 900 words, photos by 3 a.m. Friday, Dec. 14.

THURSDAY, Dec. 20

ESPORTS-GETTING WOMEN IN THE GAME

NEW YORK — Most professional esports are devoid of female players at their highest levels, even though 45 percent of U.S. gamers are women or girls. Executives for titles like League of Legends and Overwatch say they are eager to add women to pro rosters, but many female players say they're discouraged from chasing such careers largely by toxic behavior from some male gamers. Players and executives share their experiences with The Associated Press, and detail how women might break into the elite pro ranks. By Jake Seiner. UPCOMING: 1,000 words, photos, video by 3 a.m. Thursday.

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Again, if you have questions about the Sports Showcase Digest or the material listed, please reach out to Oskar Garcia at 215-446-6632 or ogarcia@ap.org.

Thanks,

AP Sports