Sports Briefs

CYCLINGLawyers: USADA would reward

those who inform on Armstrong

Lance Armstrong's attorneys say the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency is offering cyclists a "sweetheart deal" if they testify or provide evidence that the seven-time Tour de France winner cheated by doping. If the cyclists have been caught doping, the USADA deal could result in a reduced ban from competition and other incentives, lawyer Tim Herman told The Associated Press yesterday.

Federal investigators in Los Angeles are looking at cheating in professional cycling and have shown interest in Armstrong since former teammate Floyd Landis alleged this spring that Armstrong and others took performance-enhancing drugs, which Armstrong strongly denies.

USADA has a history of reducing penalties for athletes who provide evidence of doping violations by other athletes, but asking for information about specific athletes is not allowed under the agency's rules.

LITTLE LEAGUEMore replays at World Series

Managers at this month's Little League World Series will be able to challenge certain calls under a revised instant-replay system. The 2-year-old system also will be expanded to include more plays, such as tags, missed bases and hit batters.

BASKETBALLVuvuzelas silenced

Vuvuzelas will be banned from the world basketball championships, which begin Aug. 28 in Turkey. Basketball's governing body, FIBA, said the horns could damage hearing when used indoors and make it difficult to communicate on court.

NHLHawks sign Turco; Niemi walks

The Blackhawks agreed to a one-year deal with goalie Marty Turco. He will replace Stanley Cup hero Antti Niemi, who becomes a free agent. Turco, 34, was a three-time All-Star in nine seasons with Dallas. Niemi, 26, helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup this past season and was awarded a $2.75-million salary by an arbitrator last week.

SOCCERRed Bulls add Marquez

Defender Rafael Marquez, 31, signed with Major League Soccer's Red Bulls, two days after he was released by Barcelona. - AP