Sean Avery was suspended indefinitely for crude off-the-ice comments about his ex. But when it comes to words and thoughts and morality in pro sports, whose rules apply? Who are we protecting, exactly?

Auburn coach Tommy Tuberville, who won 85 games and one SEC championship in 10 seasons, won't return as the Tigers' coach in 2009, multiple sources close to the situation confirmed on Wednesday.

Sources say the Toronto Raptors have fired coach Sam Mitchell.

Dallas Stars agitator Sean Avery apologized Wednesday for comments about his former girlfriends that led to an indefinite NHL suspension.

Vikings tackles Pat and Kevin Williams were in court on Wednesday to block their suspensions.

Charlie Weis will return for a fifth year as Notre Dame's football coach despite posting his second straight disappointing season.

Dustin Pedroia has signed a $40.5 million contract with Boston through 2014 with a club option for the 2015 season, sources told ESPN's Peter Gammons.

The Giants are still gathering information on linebacker Antonio Pierce's involvement in a shooting incident that led to the season-ending suspension of star receiver Plaxico Burress.

Texas Tech is in contract talks with coach Mike Leach amid reports he has met with Washington officials about the Huskies' soon-to-be vacant head-coaching position. However, Leach's agent told ESPN's Joe Schad that no talks are currently under way.

The Carolina Hurricanes have fired coach Peter Laviolette, just two years after winning the Stanley Cup, according to multiple media reports.

Michelle Wie rolled in a 25-foot birdie putt on the final hole Wednesday for a 3-under 69, giving her a solid start in the 90-hole qualifying tournament as she tries to earn an LPGA Tour card.

The agent for shortstop Edgar Renteria said hat he's making significant progress toward a deal that would bring the five-time All-Star to the Giants.

Liz Johnson bowled her way into a men's PBA Tour event, averaging nearly 227 in seven games Wednesday to qualify for the Cheetah Championship.

Colts middle linebacker Gary Brackett is expected to miss at least two games with a cracked bone in his lower right leg.

Miami coach Frank Haith was even more angered Wednesday morning after reviewing the game tape of his star guard Jack McClinton's ejection from Tuesday night's loss to Ohio State in the ACC-Big Ten Challenge.

Rockets guard Tracy McGrady says he'll miss three weeks to rehabilitate his sore left knee.

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