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Sweet 16 action concluded in the 2025 NCAA volleyball tournament with four games Friday.

No. 1 seed Texas kicked off the day by sweeping Indiana. No. 1 overall seed Nebraska ended the night with a sweep of Kansas. Wisconsin took down Stanford and Texas A&M shocked Louisville with a comeback win.

No. 1 Kentucky and No. 1 Pittsburgh punched their tickets to the Elite Eight on Thursday. The Wildcats ended Cal Poly’s Cinderella story in straight sets, while Pittsburgh brought out the brooms against Minnesota.

Next up, Kentucky takes on No. 3 Creighton at 5 p.m. ET Saturday, followed by Pittsburgh vs. No. 3 Purdue. Sunday, Nebraska and No. 3 Texas A&M fight for a trip to the semifinals, along with Texas and No. 3 Wisconsin.

USA TODAY gives you everything you need to know about Friday’s matches and highlights:

SWEET 16 NCAA VOLLEYBALL RECAP: Kentucky, Pittsburgh sweep way to Elite Eight

FINAL SCORE: Nebraska 3, Kansas 0

The Huskers have now won 29 straight NCAA tournament matches at home. Andi Jackson (nine kills on .600 hitting) and Rebekah Allick (nine kills on 1.000 hitting) combined for 18 kills with no errors. Nebraska hit .450 collectively, while holding Kansas to .029 hitting.

Set 3: Nebraska 25, Kansas 12

Nebraska sweeps Kansas to advance to the Elite Eight on Sunday, where they will face Texas A&M.

Nebraska was in the driver’s seat once again and was the first team to reach 15 points in the third set, leading 15-8. The Huskers were hitting .762 at that point, compared to Kansas’ .353.

Set 2: Nebraska 25, Kansas 11

No. 1 Nebraska went on a 5-0 run to claim the second set, 25-11. The Huskers have been dominant on both sides of the ball, recording 22 kills and 17 total blocks through the first two sets, all while holding Kansas to a negative hitting percentage (-.039).

The Huskers cruised through the first set, but the second set started out much closer. Kansas cut Nebraska’s lead to 9–7, but the Huskers responded with a 4–0 run to go up 13–7. Rebekah Allick has been the hot hand, with nine kills on nine attempts, hitting a perfect 1.000.

Set 1: Nebraska 25, Kansas 12

Nebraska took a quick lead against Kansas and easily put away the first set.

The Cornhuskers looked every bit like the No. 1 overall seed. They collectively hit .357 and registered six blocks against the Jayhawks, who were held to a negative hitting percentage (-.024) in the first set. Rebekah Allick led the Huskers with six kills on six attempts, while Andi Jackson added four blocks and three kills.

Nebraska vs. Kansas volleyball underway

Nebraska volleyball arena expansion

Nebraska volleyball is so successful, it’s home court at John Cook Arena will be expanded to 10,000 seats ahead of the 2026 season.

The Nebraska Athletic Fund released renderings and details for the plan earlier this week. The addition of about 2,000 seats also means there will be a ‘comprehensive reseating of season tickets,’ according to the school fundraising site.

FINAL SCORE: Texas A&M 3, Louisville 2

Set 5: Texas A&M 3, Louisville 2

No. 3 Texas A&M completed a reverse sweep against No. 2 Louisville to advance to the regional final for the first time since 2001 after winning the fifth set, 15-12. The Aggies were able to swing the momentum of the game with their blocking ability, led by Ifenna Cos-okpalla’s 12 total blocks.

Texas A&M’s Logan Lednicky (20 kills, 10 digs on .245 hitting), Kyndal Stowers (16 kills, 11 digs on .282 hitting) and Emily Hellmuth (12 kills on .226 hitting) each recorded double-digit kills.

‘We just weren’t finishing the last end of the set,’ said an emotional Lednicky, who was three blocks away from a triple double. ‘We’re like, we’re not letting them sweep us. We know how to grind, we know how to dig it. We saw it in the TCU match and we did just that last one.’

Tensions boiled over in the fifth set. Louisville head coach Dan Meske earned a yellow card for swatting the ball because he thought the referee missed a carry call during a long rally Texas A&M won to go up 12-10.

Louisville’s Chloe Chicoine finished with a game-high 26 kills hitting .300 in the loss.

Set 4: Louisville 2, Texas A&M 2

No. 3 Texas A&M took a 17-8 lead after holding No. 2 Louisville to a -.143 hitting percentage to start the fourth set with its defensive prowess. The Aggies stretched their lead to as many as nine points, but Louisville went on a 7-1 run to come within three points of Texas A&M. The Aggies didn’t relinquish the lead this time. Texas A&M finished the fourth set on a 4-0 run to force a decisive fifth set.

Texas A&M held Louisville to .000 hitting in the fourth set. The Aggies hit .267 and recorded nine blocks. Texas A&M’s Logan Lednicky (18 kills on .333 hitting), Kyndal Stowers (14 kills on .243 hitting) and Emily Hellmuth (10 kills on .200 hitting) each have double-digit kills. Ifenna Cos-okpalla is up to 11 blocks.

The Aggies are going for the reverse sweep, the team’s first since September 2024.

Set 3: Louisville 2, Texas A&M 1

No. 3 Texas A&M head coach Jamie Morrison said his team needed to do a better job at finishing at the end of the set if they wanted to extend their season against No. 2 Louisville after giving up leads in the first two sets. The Aggies did just that in a third set that featured 15 ties and five lead changes.

The Aggies had a 23-21 lead in the third set before Louisville tied it up at 23-23 following back-to-back kills from Chloe Chicoine. Texas A&M’s Kyndal Stowers responded with a pair of kills herself to give the Aggies the set, 25-23.

Texas A&M’s Logan Lednicky (14 kills on .333 hitting), Kyndal Stowers (11 kills on .259 hitting) and Emily Hellmuth (10 kills on .261) each have double-digit kills as the team is collectively hitting .292.

Meanwhile, Chicoine is up to 19 kills on .405 hitting. Cara Crease added seven blocks.

Set 2: Louisville 2, Texas A&M 0

New set, same scenario. Much like the first set, Texas A&M was the first team to reach 15 points. The Aggies had a 21-16 lead in the second set, before Louisville staged another comeback. The Cardinals went on a 9-1 run to take the lead and clinch the second set, 25-22, to take a 2-0 lead over Texas A&M.

Louisville capitalized on 14 total blocks and three aces. Chloe Chicoine (11 kills on .400 hitting) and Payton Petersen (10 kills on .563 hitting) led the Cardinals in kills.

Logan Lednicky has nine kills, while Emily Hellmuth and Kyndal Stowers each have seven kills for Texas A&M.

Set 1: Louisville 1, Texas A&M 0

No. 3 Texas A&M had control of the first set and was the first team to 15 points, but No. 2 Louisville went on a 5-0 run to tie it up at 17-17. Five more ties ensued before Louisville ultimately created some separation to take the first set, 25-23. Louisville hit .457 and had two players with six or more kills — Payton Petersen (seven kills on .778 hitting) and Chloe Chicoine (six kills on .600 hitting).

Louisville starters

FINAL SCORE: Wisconsin 3, Stanford 1

Set 4: Wisconsin 25, Stanford 22

The Badgers had to fight for it, but they moved on after a 3-1 win over Stanford that was sealed with a team block. Wisconsin finished the day hitting .420. Mimi Colyer had a blistering 27 kills on .373 hitting and 10 digs. On the other side of the net, Stanford hit well for most of the match, but slipped to a .242 percentage in the fourth set after maintaining around .400 during the first three sets. The Cardinal had four players who finished with double-digit kills. Elia Rubin led the group with 15 kills and 13 digs.

Set 3: Wisconsin 25, Stanford 23

The third set was a back-and-forth battle. There were a whopping nine ties and four lead changes before Wisconsin finally pulled away to go up 2-1. Grace Egan sealed the third set for the Badgers with a timely kill after two set points. Mimi Colyer continues her day of domination with 19 kills on .333 hitting. Carter Booth has also been fantastic for Wisconsin with 13 kills on .813 hitting. Julia Blyashov and Jordyn Harvey both have 10 kills for Stanford.

Set 2: Stanford: 25, Wisconsin 21

Stanford was poised with better defense and serving. The Cardinal were tied with the Badgers at 13 before letting off a 12-8 run to take the set. Elia Rubin had the deciding kill after three set points. Stanford hit .484 with three players who had six or more kills, including Rubin, who had a .417 hitting percentage and seven digs. Wisconsin’s Mimi Colyer leads all players with 16 kills on 25 swings and .480 hitting.

Wisconsin vs. Stanford is a sister-against-sister showdown

Look across the court, and fans will see a pair of sisters on opposite sides of the court. Wisconsin’s Alicia Andrew and Stanford’s Lizzy Andrew are facing off against each other today in the Sweet 16.

Set 1: Wisconsin 25, Stanford 17

Wisconsin hit a blistering .514 in the first set, sealed by a Carter Booth kill. Mimi Colyer led the Badgers with nine kills on 15 swings and a .467 hitting percentage. Lizzy Andrew led the Cardinal, going a perfect three-for-three on kills.

Wisconsin vs. Stanford is underway

No. 3 Wisconsin and No. 2 Stanford are in the first set of the second match of day two of the Sweet 16.

Texas star Cari Spears had her dad in the stands against Indiana

Former NFL player and ESPN analyst Marcus Spears was in the stands today to watch his daughter, Texas freshman Cari Spears, play.

FINAL SCORE: Texas 3, Indiana 0

Set 3: Texas 25, Indiana 22

Whitney Lauenstein sent Texas to the regional final with a kill to secure the sweep against Indiana. The Longhorns finished with .374 hitting and 23 total blocks. Torrey Stafford was brilliant with 19 kills on 28 swings (with zero errors) and a .679 hitting percentage. Nya Bunton was also critical to the Longhorns’ success with seven kills on .545 hitting and five blocks. Candela Alonso-Corcelles and Jaidyn Jager had 21 combined kills for the Hoosiers.

Indiana is pushing Texas in Set 3

The Hoosiers look much more relaxed in the third set as they try to fight off elimination. They are hitting .261 in the frame and have slowed down Texas’s blocks.

Set 2: Texas 25, Indiana 22

It took four set points, but Abby Vander Wal again secured the set Texas. The Longhorns have held the Hoosiers to under .200 for the match while maintaining .365 hitting percentage. Torrey Stafford is putting on a clinic from all over the court. Stafford has zero errors on 19 swings, including 15 kills and a .789 hitting percentage. Candela Alonso-Corcelles leads Indiana with seven kills on .125 hitting and six digs.

Texas’s defense is rolling against Indiana

The Longhorns have 17 total blocks and have held Indiana to a .088 hitting percentage in the second set and .127 hitting for the match.

Set 1: Texas 25, Indiana 20

Texas took the first set after two set points, with Abby Vander Wal landing the deciding point. As a team, Texas hit .323 in the set, compared to .162 for Indiana with nine errors. The Hoosiers had several runs to close the game with the Longhorns, but Texas was too much. Torrey Stafford led all players with six kills on .750 hitting.

Texas is the first to 15 in Set 1 against Indiana

The Longhorns reached 15 points behind a huge boost from outside hitter Torrey Stafford, who had five kills and two blocks.

Indiana vs. Texas is underway

The Indiana Hoosiers and Texas Longhorns are in the first set of the first match during Day 2 of the Sweet 16.

NCAA volleyball Sweet 16 continues Friday

Two No. 1 seeds play on Friday, with Texas playing Indiana in the opener. The top overall seed, Nebraska, puts its unbeaten streak on the line against No. 4 Kansas in the nightcap after opening the tournament with back-to-back sweeps.

When is NCAA women’s volleyball Sweet 16?

  • Date: Dec. 12
  • Time: Four matches beginning at noon ET Friday. Match-by-match times below.

How to watch NCAA volleyball tournament

  • Streaming: ESPN+ ∣ Fubo (free trial)

The 2025 NCAA women’s volleyball tournament will air across the ESPN and ABC family of networks. Games can be streamed ESPN+, ESPN’s subscription streaming service, and Fubo, which offers a free trial to potential subscribers.

NCAA volleyball Sweet 16 schedule: Times, TV

All times Eastern

Thursday, Dec. 11

  • No. 3 Creighton 3, No. 2 Arizona State 1
  • No. 1 Kentucky 3, Cal Poly 0
  • No. 1 Pittsburgh 3, No. 4 Minnesota 0
  • No. 3 Purdue 3, No. 2 SMU 1

Friday, Dec. 12

  • No. 1 Texas 3, No. 4 Indiana 0
  • No. 3 Wisconsin 3, No. 2 Stanford 1
  • No. 3 Texas A&M 3, No. 2 Louisville 2
  • No. 1 Nebraska vs. No. 4 Kansas, 9:30 p.m. | ESPN2

Saturday, Dec. 13

  • No. 3 Creighton vs. No. 1 Kentucky, 5 p.m. | ESPN2
  • No. 1 Pittsburgh vs. No. 3 Purdue, 7:30 p.m. | ESPN2

Sunday, Dec. 14

  • No. 1 Nebraska vs. No. 3 Texas A&M, 3 p.m. | ABC
  • No. 1 Texas vs. No. 3 Wisconsin, 7:30 p.m. | ESPN

When is the NCAA volleyball Final Four in 2025?

  • Dates: Thursday, Dec. 18 and Sunday, Dec. 21

The two semifinal matches in the Final Four of the 2025 NCAA volleyball tournament will take place on Thursday, Dec. 18 and will be broadcast on ESPN. The national championship game is Sunday, Dec. 21 on ABC.

NCAA volleyball second-round results

Lexington bracket

  • No. 1 Kentucky 3, No. 8 UCLA 1 (30-28, 25-16, 28-30, 25-17)
  • No. 3 Creighton 3, No. 6 Northern Iowa 1 (25-18, 23-25, 25-22, 25-21)
  • No. 2 Arizona State 3, Utah State 1 (25-15, 25-18, 22-25, 25-15)
  • Cal Poly 3, No. 4 USC 2 (25-19, 25-20, 20-25, 14-25, 15-7)

Austin bracket

  • No. 4 Indiana 3, No. 5 Colorado 0 (25-20, 25-17, 25-23)
  • No. 3 Wisconsin 3, North Carolina 0 (25-14, 25-21, 27-25)
  • No. 1 Texas 1, No. 8 Penn State 0 (25-16, 25-9, 25-19)
  • No. 2 Stanford 3, Arizona 1 (25-16, 25-27, 25-17, 25-20)

Pittsburgh bracket

  • No. 3 Purdue 3, No. 6 Baylor 1 (25-16, 25-19, 23-25, 25-20)
  • No. 1 Pittsburgh 3, Michigan 0 (25-23, 25-23, 25-18)
  • No. 2 SMU 3, Florida 0 (25-11, 25-21, 26-24)
  • No. 4 Minnesota 3, No. 5 Iowa State 0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-14)

Lincoln bracket

  • No. 4 Kansas 3, No. 5 Miami 1 (25-17, 25-22, 22-25, 27-25)
  • No. 2 Louisville 3, Marquette 2 (21-25, 25-11, 23-25, 25-19, 15-12)
  • No. 1 Nebraska 3, Kansas State 0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-16)
  • No. 3 Texas A&M 3, No. 6 TCU 1 (23-25, 25-23, 25-22, 29-27)

NCAA volleyball first-round results

Lexington bracket

  • No. 1 Kentucky 3, Wofford 0 (25-11, 25-19, 25-12)
  • No. 8 UCLA 3, Georgia Tech 2 (24-26, 25-19, 25-23, 25-18, 15-10)
  • Cal Poly 3, No. 5 BYU 2 (25-19, 17-25, 20-25, 25-20, 15-10)
  • No. 4 USC 3, Princeton 0, (25-19, 25-12, 25-13)
  • No. 3 Creighton 3, Northern Colorado 2 (12-25, 25-23,25-23,17-25, 8-15)
  • No. 6 Northern Iowa 3, Utah 2 (15-25, 21-25, 26-24, 25-20, 15-10)
  • Utah State 3, No. 7 Tennessee 2 (25-19, 25-15, 19-25, 25-18, 15-11)
  • No. 2 Arizona State 3, Coppin State 0 (25-11, 25-14, 25-12)

Austin bracket

  • No. 1 Texas 3, Florida A&M 0 (25-11, 25- 8, 25-14)
  • No. 8 Penn State 3, South Florida 1 (25-23, 12-25, 25-21, 25-19)
  • No. 5 Colorado 3, American 0 (25-16, 25-19, 25-16)
  • No. 4 Indiana 3, Toledo 0 (25-18, 25-15, 25-17)
  • No. 3 Wisconsin 3, Eastern Illinois 0 (25-11, 25-6, 25-19)
  • North Carolina 3, No. 6 UTEP 1 (24-26, 25-11, 25-18, 25-21)
  • Arizona 3, No. 7 South Dakota State 1 (25-21, 22-25, 25-15, 25-15)
  • No. 2 Stanford 3, Utah Valley 1 (21-25, 25-21, 25-13, 25-14)

Pittsburgh bracket

  • No. 1 Pitt 3, UMBC 0 (25-10, 25-17, 25-13)
  • Michigan 3, No. 8 Xavier 0 (25-19, 25-15, 25-23)
  • No. 5 Iowa State 3, St. Thomas-Minnesota 2 (21-25, 25-13, 25-16, 21-25, 15-8)
  • No. 4 Minnesota 3, Fairfield 0 (25-12, 25-7, 25-13)
  • No. 3 Purdue 3, Wright State 0 (25-13, 25-21, 25-19)
  • No. 6 Baylor 3, Arkansas State 2 (23-25, 25-20, 30-28, 23-25, 15-10)
  • Florida 3, No. 7 Rice 0 (27-25, 25-23, 25-19)
  • No. 2 SMU 3, Central Arkansas 0 (25-13, 25-13, 25-13)

Lincoln bracket

  • No. 1 Nebraska 3, Long Island 0 (25-11, 25-15, 25-17)
  • Kansas State 3, San Diego 2 (21-25, 25-17, 26-28, 25-22, 15-12)
  • No. 5 Miami 3, Tulsa 1 (25-22, 13-25, 25-22, 25-20)
  • No. 4 Kansas 3, High Point 0 (25-20, 25-15, 25-18)
  • No. 3 Texas A&M 3, Campbell 0 (25-20, 25-10, 25-13)
  • No. 6 TCU 3, Stephen F. Austin 0 (25-8, 26-24, 25-20)
  • Marquette 3, Western Kentucky 0 (25-22, 25-21, 25-16)
  • No. 2 Louisville 3, Loyola (Illinois) 0 (25-17, 25-9, 25-12)

NCAA volleyball tournament champions

Penn State is the reigning NCAA volleyball champion, having defeated Louisville in four sets last year in the national title game. It was the Nittany Lions’ eighth volleyball championship since 1999.

Here’s a look at the past 10 NCAA volleyball champions:

  • 2024: Penn State
  • 2023: Texas
  • 2022: Texas
  • 2021: Wisconsin
  • 2020: Kentucky
  • 2019: Stanford
  • 2018: Stanford
  • 2017: Nebraska
  • 2016: Stanford
  • 2015: Nebraska

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This post appeared first on USA TODAY

Austin Reaves is expected to miss at least a week for the Los Angeles Lakers due to injury.

The injury comes at a bad time for the Lakers, who were finally able to field a healthy starting lineup.

Luka Dončić had missed time earlier in the season, and LeBron James had just made his season debut against the Utah Jazz on Nov. 18.

Reaves managed to step up for the Lakers during the absence of their two superstars. He scored 51 points against the Sacramento Kings and 41 against the Portland Trailblazers on back-to-back nights in October. He has continued to produce at a high level offensively, scoring 44 against the Toronto Raptors and 36 against the Boston Celtics on back-to-back nights last week.

Austin Reaves injury update

The guard was diagnosed with a mild left calf strain and is expected to be re-evaluated in approximately one week.

The Lakers will play three games next week: Sunday, Dec. 14 at the Phoenix Suns; Thursday, Dec. 18 at the Utah Jazz; Saturday, Dec. 20 at the Los Angeles Clippers. Reaves is expected to miss the first two, at least.

Reaves is the latest NBA player to suffer from a calf injury. San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has also missed time this season because of a calf strain.

Who is Austin Reaves backup? Lakers’ depth chart

Marcus Smart is a strong possibility to fill in for Reaves. Smart has averaged 10.4 points, 2.8 assists and 2.3 rebounds per game in 15 games played this season.

Austin Reaves stats

Reaves has averaged career-highs in points (27.8), assists (6.7) and rebounds (5.6) in 21 games played this season.

When do the Lakers play next?

The Lakers will travel to play the Phoenix Suns at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) on Sunday.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

Standard Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: STND,OTC:STTDF) (OTCQB: STTDF) (FSE: 9SU0) (‘Standard Uranium’ or the ‘Company’) announces the conclusion, effective December 11, 2025, of an arm’s length property option agreement (the ‘Agreement’) with Aero Energy Ltd. (‘Aero’) dated October 20, 2023, that had allowed Aero to earn up to 100% interest in the Sun Dog Project (‘Sun Dog’, or the ‘Project’). Following the conclusion of the Agreement, full and unencumbered ownership of the Project has been returned to the Company. Standard Uranium is currently working on plans to advance exploration on Sun Dog, building upon recent drilling and geophysical programs in 2024 and 2025.

Sun Dog covers an area of 48,443 acres (19,604 ha) across nine mineral claims and is located 15 km Southeast of Uranium City on the northern margin of the Athabasca Basin (Figure 1). It hosts the historical Gunnar Uranium Mine, discovered in 1952, which doubled Canada’s uranium production and became the largest uranium producer globally in 1956. The Gunnar Mine produced approximately 18M lbs of U3O8 between 1953 and 19811,2.

Jon Bey, CEO & Director of Standard Uranium, commented, ‘Sun Dog is a fantastic project that continues to garner a great deal of interest from multiple companies. We are excited to have the Sun Dog project returned to our portfolio and confident that we will have another joint venture partner funding further exploration in the next year. I would also like to wish the team at Aero Energy future success as they focus their sites on their other uranium projects in Canada and the USA. They were a great partner to work with the past two years.’

Figure 1. Overview of the Sun Dog Project highlighting drill target areas, historical high-grade* uranium occurrences3, and EM-conductors4.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10633/277772_82df2fcd64d3c957_001full.jpg

Sun Dog Highlights

  • History of Production: The project hosts the historical Gunnar Mine which produced 18M pounds of U3O8 between 1953 and 1981 and was formerly the world’s largest uranium producer1,2.

  • Uranium Above and Below the Unconformity: Numerous recent and historical high-grade* uranium assays from outcrop samples across the Project range from 0.01% to 17.4% U3O83,4. These showings occur in both basement rocks below the Unconformity and perched within Athabasca sandstones above the Unconformity thus confirming the presence of unconformity-related high-grade uranium on the Sun Dog Project.

  • Verified Targets: Stacked graphitic structural zones associated with uranium mineralization and prospective hydrothermal alteration have been intersected in multiple target areas during modern drill programs. The drill program results to date confirm a favorable geological environment for fluid movement and uranium deposition on the Project.

Modern Exploration

Recent exploration efforts by Standard Uranium have focused on multiple target areas across the Project, testing down-dip extensions of structures hosting uranium at surface with the aim of discovering high-grade unconformity mineralization and basement ‘roots’ of the mineralizing systems underlying the Athabasca sandstones.

Prospecting & Surface Exploration

Prospecting in 2020 led to the discovery of a new high-grade uranium showing named the Haven discovery and several zones of visible uranium mineralization at surface that returned uranium assay results of 3.58% U3O8, 1.7% U3O8, and 0.7% U3O8.5

In the summer of 2022, Standard Uranium executed a field mapping and prospecting program to expand upon the results of the 2020 prospecting program. Handheld RS-120 and RS-125 scintillometers were used to track radioactivity with more than 80 new mineralized boulder and bedrock locations discovered on Johnston and Stewart islands.

In 2024, occurrences of strong to intense radioactivity in outcropping basement rocks were identified at surface while prospecting at the Wishbone and Spring-Dome target areas, returning highly anomalous assays ranging from 0.02% to 13.0% U3O8.6

Additionally, the analytical results revealed a correlation between uranium and gold, while boron and other pathfinder elements highlighted the potential for a robust alteration footprint associated with uranium mineralization. Surficial grab samples from faults and veins cutting sandstone outcrop returned high concentrations of dravite (up to 75%), a uranium pathfinder mineral commonly associated with uranium-fertile systems.

Geophysical Surveys

In the winter of 2022, MWH Geo-Surveys Ltd. carried out a ground gravity survey and UAV-borne magnetic surveys in the areas of Johnston and Stewart islands on behalf of Standard Uranium. The gravity survey consisted of 3,388 unique gravity measurement stations with a station spacing of 50 to 100 m. The survey identified several variations in residual gravity and outlined multiple gravity low target areas on and around Stewart and Johnston islands.

An airborne VTEMTM Plus survey was completed in 2024 to pinpoint graphitic rocks (conductors) favourable for hosting significant concentrations of uranium. This modern electromagnetic (‘EM’) survey improved upon historical surveys which have identified at least 40 km of combined conductor strike length.

In 2025, MWH Geo-Surveys Ltd. completed high-resolution ground gravity surveys along known conductive exploration trends across the Wishbone, McNie, and Armbruster South target areas, filling in the gaps between the previous 2022 gravity grids (Figure 2). These surveys have identified numerous density-low bullseye anomalies representing potential zones of hydrothermal alteration or structural disruption which are commonly associated with uranium mineralization events.

Figure 2. 2025 ground gravity survey areas covering the Armbruster South, Wishbone, and McNie EM conductor trends. Density-low anomalies representing potential alteration zones are highlighted by cool colours on the inverted gravity grids.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10633/277772_82df2fcd64d3c957_002full.jpg

Drill Programs

Standard Uranium carried out two drill programs on the Project during the winters of 2022 and 2023, in addition to operating a program in 2024 funded by Aero. In total, 4,062 m of diamond drilling has been completed by the Company across 21 drill holes on the Project.

Historical exploration efforts primarily focused on the ‘Beaverlodge-style’ deposit model, targeting lower-grade, fault-hosted mineralization visible at the surface. This approach did not target, and would not have been effective for, the high-grade ‘Unconformity-related’ basement-hosted deposits associated with graphitic rocks more recently discovered near the Athabasca Basin’s edge (e.g. Arrow, Triple R).

Recent diamond drill programs have been successful in identifying key geological characteristics prospective for significant uranium mineralizing systems on the Project, which in turn will aid in planning and prioritization of additional exploration targets for follow-up drill programs.

Drilling highlights include3,8:

  • Widespread hydrothermal alteration zones containing illite-rich and dravitic clays and abundant iron-oxide minerals intersected in multiple drill holes, indicating a robust fluid system with prospective chemistry for uranium.

  • Significant structural influence evidenced to control high-grade uranium mineralization and anomalous radioactivity in drill holes.

  • Reactivated graphitic shear zones & quartz-hematite breccias intersected over 10s of metres in several drill holes indicate ideal structural regime providing the plumbing system for uranium mobilization.

  • Favorable geochemistry returned in multiple drill holes, including prospective clay spectroscopy results (dravite), elevated pathfinder elements, and anomalous uranium correlated to lead isotope ratios which may be used as an additional exploration vector.

  • Uranium mineralization confirmed by anomalous uranium assays was intersected in multiple drill holes, coinciding with prospective structure and favorable alteration.

Qualified Person Statement

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed, verified, and approved by Sean Hillacre, P.Geo., President and VP Exploration of the Company and a ‘qualified person’ as defined in NI 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Samples collected for analysis by the Company were sent to SRC Geoanalytical Laboratories in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan for preparation, processing, and ICP-MS multi-element analysis using total and partial digestion, gold by fire assay, and boron by fusion. Basement samples were tested with ICP-MS2 uranium multi-element exploration package plus boron. All basement samples marked as radioactive upon arrival to the lab were also analyzed using the U3O8 assay (reported in wt %). Basement rock split interval samples range from 0.1 to 0.5 m. SRC is an ISO/IEC 17025:2005 and Standards Council of Canada certified analytical laboratory. Blanks, standard reference materials, and repeats were inserted into the sample stream at regular intervals in accordance with Standard Uranium’s quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocols. All samples passed internal QA/QC protocols, and the results presented in this release are deemed complete, reliable, and repeatable.

Samples containing clay alteration were sent to Rekasa Rocks Inc. in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to be analyzed by Short Wavelength Infrared Reflectance (‘SWIR‘) via a Portable Infrared Mineral Analyzer (‘PIMA‘) to verify clay species. All depth measurements reported are down-hole measurements and true thicknesses are yet to be determined.

Historical data disclosed in this news release relating to sampling results from previous operators are historical in nature. Neither the Company nor a qualified person has yet verified this data and therefore investors should not place undue reliance on such data. The Company’s future exploration work may include verification of the data. The Company considers historical results to be relevant as an exploration guide and to assess the mineralization as well as economic potential of exploration projects. Any historical grab samples disclosed are selected samples and may not represent true underlying mineralization.

Natural gamma radiation from rocks reported in this news release was measured in counts per second (‘cps’) using a handheld RS-125 super-spectrometer and RS-120 super-scintillometer. Readers are cautioned that scintillometer readings are not uniformly or directly related to uranium grades of the rock sample measured and should be treated only as a preliminary indication of the presence of radioactive minerals. The RS-125 and RS-120 units supplied by Radiation Solutions Inc. (‘RSI‘) have been calibrated on specially designed Test Pads by RSI. Standard Uranium maintains an internal QA/QC procedure for calibration and calculation of drift in radioactivity readings through three test pads containing known concentrations of radioactive minerals. Internal test pad radioactivity readings are known and regularly compared to readings measured by the handheld scintillometers for QA/QC purposes.

References

  1. Gunnar Uranium Mine: From Cold War Darling to Ghost Town, L. Schramm, Saskatchewan Research Council, 2018.
  2. Geology and Genesis of Major World Hardrock Uranium Deposits, United States Geological Survey, Open-File Report 81-166, 1981.
  3. Technical Report on the Sun Dog Property – Northwestern Saskatchewan, Canada, Effective date June 30, 2023
  4. Information obtained from Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index and historical report from Uranium City Resources, 2007

*The Company considers uranium mineralization with concentrations greater than 1.0 wt% U3O8 to be ‘high-grade’.

**The Company considers radioactivity readings greater than 65,535 counts per second (cps) on a handheld RS-125 Super-Spectrometer to be ‘off-scale’.

***The Company considers radioactivity readings greater than 300 counts per second (cps) on a handheld RS-125 Super-Spectrometer to be ‘anomalous’.

About Standard Uranium (TSXV: STND,OTC:STTDF)

We find the fuel to power a clean energy future

Standard Uranium is a uranium exploration company and emerging project generator poised for discovery in the world’s richest uranium district. The Company holds interest in over 235,435 acres (95,277 hectares) in the world-class Athabasca Basin in Saskatchewan, Canada. Since its establishment, Standard Uranium has focused on the identification, acquisition, and exploration of Athabasca-style uranium targets with a view to discovery and future development.

Standard Uranium’s Davidson River Project, in the southwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, comprises ten mineral claims over 30,737 hectares. Davidson River is highly prospective for basement-hosted uranium deposits due to its location along trend from recent high-grade uranium discoveries. However, owing to the large project size with multiple targets, it remains broadly under-tested by drilling. Recent intersections of wide, structurally deformed and strongly altered shear zones provide significant confidence in the exploration model and future success is expected.

Standard Uranium’s eastern Athabasca projects comprise over 43,185 hectares of prospective land holdings. The eastern basin projects are highly prospective for unconformity related and/or basement hosted uranium deposits based on historical uranium occurrences, recently identified geophysical anomalies, and location along trend from several high-grade uranium discoveries.

Standard Uranium’s Sun Dog project, in the northwest part of the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, is comprised of nine mineral claims over 19,603 hectares. The Sun Dog project is highly prospective for basement and unconformity hosted uranium deposits yet remains largely untested by sufficient drilling despite its location proximal to uranium discoveries in the area.

For further information contact:

Jon Bey, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman
Suite 3123, 595 Burrard Street
Vancouver, British Columbia, V7X 1J1

Tel: 1 (306) 850-6699
E-mail: info@standarduranium.ca

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains ‘forward-looking statements’ or ‘forward-looking information’ (collectively, ‘forward-looking statements’) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding: the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations; timing of the Company’s exploration programs; and estimates of market conditions.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements contained herein. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are highlighted in the ‘Risks and Uncertainties’ in the Company’s management discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2025.

Forward-looking statements are based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies that may cause the Company’s actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied herein. Some of the material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking statements include, without limitation: that the transaction with the Optionee will proceed as planned; the future price of uranium; anticipated costs and the Company’s ability to raise additional capital if and when necessary; volatility in the market price of the Company’s securities; future sales of the Company’s securities; the Company’s ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the success of exploration, development and operations activities; the timing and results of drilling programs; the discovery of mineral resources on the Company’s mineral properties; the costs of operating and exploration expenditures; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); uncertainties related to title to mineral properties; assessments by taxation authorities; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Any forward-looking statements and the assumptions made with respect thereto are made as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. The Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/277772

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Copper prices were volatile in 2025 amid several competing narratives, including the possibility of a global recession early in the year and tariff measures in July.

By the end of the year, prices found support as supply and demand conditions came into focus and pointed to a deepening supply deficit in 2026.

Significant disruptions added to already tight market conditions, as two of the world’s largest mines, Ivanhoe Mines’ (TSX:IVN,OTCQX:IVPAF,OTC:IVPAF) Kamoa-Kakula and Freeport McMoRan’s Grasberg, were shut down following seismic events and the ingress of wet materials, respectively.

The closure of the mines comes as demand for the base metal surges, driven by artificial intelligence and the energy transition.

Against that backdrop, how have TSX-listed copper companies performed? Learn about the top five best-performing copper stocks in 2025 by year-to-date gains below. Data for this article was retrieved on December 9, 2025, using TradingView’s stock screener, and only companies with market capitalizations greater than C$50 million are included.

1. Imperial Metals (TSX:III)

Year-to-date gain: 333.7 percent
Market cap: C$1.4 billion
Share price: C$7.98

Imperial Metals is a mine development and production company with operations in British Columbia, Canada.

It holds a 30 percent interest in the Red Chris mine in BC’s Golden Triangle, with the remainder owned by Newmont (TSX:NGT,NYSE:NEM,ASX:NEM). Imperial also fully owns the Mount Polley copper-gold mine, which reopened in June 2022, and the Huckleberry copper mine, which has been under care and maintenance since 2016.

Provincial approvals for a 4 meter raise of the embankment at the Mount Polley tailings storage facility have been the subject of a lawsuit after the Xatśūll First Nation applied for an interim injunction challenging them in April.

A June 30 update reported that the BC Supreme Court had reserved judgment on the case following a four day hearing. The Supreme Court ultimately dismissed the Xatśūll First Nation’s application for the injunction and judicial review of the approvals on August 6. Imperials’ most recent update on the case came on September 3, when the Xatśūll First Nation filed a notice of appeal to overturn the dismissal of the judicial reviews. However, it did not appeal the injunction decision, meaning the company can complete the raise and continue mining at Mount Polley.

On August 29, Imperial announced that it received approval for a permit amendment allowing the company to expand Mount Polley’s operations and extend its operating life, including pit development and expansion of storage areas within the existing mine site footprint.

In the company’s Q3 production report for Red Chris, released on October 23, it indicated that total copper production at the mine increased 10 percent year-over-year to 20.9 million pounds, up from 18.98 million pounds in Q3 2024. Through the first nine months of the year, copper production increased even more, rising 20 percent to 67.51 million pounds from 56.37 million pounds during the same period of 2024.

The most recent update from Imperial came on November 27, when it released an exploration update from its Huckleberry mine, reporting it completed all nine holes of its 2025 diamond drill campaign testing an area southwest of the Main Zone. One hole returned a grade of 0.5 percent copper over 52.7 meters, including an intersection of 0.81 percent copper and 0.23 grams per metric ton (g/t) gold over 22.6 meters.

Shares of Imperial reached a year-to-date high of C$7.95 on December 10.

2. Meridian Mining (TSX:MNO)

Year-to-date gain: 313.33 percent
Market cap: C$656.72 million
Share price: C$1.55

Meridian Mining is an exploration and development company that is currently developing its flagship Cabaçal copper-gold project in Mato Grosso, Brazil. The project license covers a 50 square kilometer area and hosts an 11 kilometer volcanogenic massive sulfide corridor containing gold, copper and silver.

A prefeasibility study released March 10 demonstrates a post-tax base case net present value of US$984 million with an internal rate of return of 61 percent and a payback period of 17 months. The project has a predicted mine life of 10.6 years with total life of mine production of 169,647 metric tons of copper.

The included mineral resource estimate for Cabaçal shows a measured and indicated resource of 204,470 metric tons of contained copper from 51.43 million metric tons of ore with an average grade of 0.4 percent. It also hosts significant gold and silver resources.

Additionally, Meridian reported on May 8 that it has hired Ausenco Brazil as the lead engineer to complete a definitive feasibility study for Cabaçal, targeting the first half of 2026 for completion.

Meridian has been carrying out an extensive exploration program at the site as part of the study.

The company announced results from the final phase of the drill program on October 7, when it reported significant copper grades. It highlighted an interval of 1.4 percent copper equivalent over 27.5 meters, including an intersection of 6.1 percent copper equivalent over 6.4 meters.

The company stated that the drill program yielded robust grades of gold, copper and silver mineralization, which will contribute to the mineral resource and reserve upgrades included in the definitive feasibility study. It also reported exploration success at the Cigarra target.

On November 3, Meridian announced that the State of Mato Grosso had formally approved the preliminary license for Cabaçal, which the company stated is the first of three licenses required to commence operations. Meridian said that it would now turn its attention to its application for an installation license. If approved, the installation license would allow the company to begin construction at the site.

Shares of Meridian reached a year-to-date high of C$1.65 on December 4.

3. St. Augustine Gold and Copper (TSX:SAU)

Year-to-date gain: 300 percent
Market cap: C$331.75 million
Share price: C$0.32

St. Augustine Gold and Copper is a development company focused on its King-king copper-gold project in the Philippines’ Davao de Oro province. The project consists of 184 mining claims.

On May 30, St. Augustine entered into an agreement with the National Development Corporation (Nadecor) to acquire a 100 percent interest in Nadecor’s wholly owned subsidiary Kingking Milling, which holds the development rights to King-king. Under the terms of the deal, Nadecor will receive C$9.02 million convertible into 185 million shares.

The project’s exploration and development permits are held by Kingking Mining, which remains a 40/40/20 joint venture between St. Augustine, Nadecor and Queensberry Mining and Development. The release also includes details of new ore sales and royalty agreements between Kingking Milling and Kingking Mining.

On June 18, St. Augustine completed a debt conversion with Queensberry Mining, converting C$1.67 million in debt owed to Queensbury into 25.31 million common shares of St. Augustine at C$0.066 per share.

A follow-up announcement from Queensberry Mining stated that the shares represent a 2.5 percent stake in St. Augustine, increasing Queensberry’s holdings in the company to 52 percent of the total issued and outstanding shares.

As for Q3, on July 31, the company released an updated feasibility study for the project. Based on a copper price of US$4.30 per pound and a gold price of US$2,150 per ounce, the project’s economics included an after-tax net present value of US$4.18 billion, with an internal rate of return of 34.2 percent and a payback period of 1.9 years.

The report estimates a 31 year mine life with average annual production of 96,411 metric tons of payable copper and 185,828 ounces of gold. The six phase development plan will see higher average production in the first five years at 129,000 metric tons of copper and 330,000 ounces of gold.

On October 8, St. Augustine announced that it had engaged with Stantec Consulting and Independent Mining Consultants to produce a definitive feasibility study for Kingking. The company said the study will optimize key recommendations from the pre-feasibility study, including a chloride leach process to improve recovery from low-grade sulfide stockpiles early in the mine life, as well as increased throughput capacity.

Shares of St. Augustine Gold and Copper reached a year-to-date high of C$0.58 on July 29.

4. Trilogy Metals (TSX:TMQ)

Year-to-date gain: 269.23 percent
Market cap: C$1.07 billion
Share price: C$6.24

Trilogy Metals is a polymetallic exploration and development company working to advance its Upper Kobuk mineral projects in Northern Alaska, US, which it owns in a 50/50 joint venture with South32 (ASX:S32,OTC Pink:SHTLF).

Its most advanced asset is the Arctic copper, zinc, lead, gold and silver project, which is in the feasibility stage.

In an updated feasibility study from February 2023, the company reported annual payable production volumes of 148.68 million pounds of copper, 172.6 million pounds of zinc, 25.75 million pounds of lead, 32,538 ounces of gold and 2.77 million ounces of silver. After tax, the study pegs the project’s net present value at US$1.11 billion, with an internal rate of return of 22.8 percent and a payback period of 3.1 years.

Trilogy’s other key asset is the Bornite copper-cobalt project located 25 kilometers southwest of its Arctic project. The site hosts widespread mineralization and has seen historic exploration dating back to the 1950s.

A preliminary economic assessment for Bornite, dated January 15, established an after-tax net present value of US$393.9 million, with an internal rate of return of 20 percent and a payback period of 4.4 years.

The updated mineral resource included with the report estimates an inferred resource of 6.53 billion pounds of copper with an average grade of 1.42 percent from 208.9 million metric tons of ore.

Trilogy’s Upper Kobuk assets are among the mineral projects dependent on the approval and construction of the Ambler Access Road, a planned 211 kilometer industrial road through Alaska.

Trilogy’s share price saw substantial gains in October after the US Senate repealed a land management plan that prevented the construction of the access road due to environmental concerns.

Additionally, on October 6, Trilogy entered into a binding letter of intent that will see the US Department of Defense (DoD) invest US$17.8 million in Trilogy in exchange for 8.22 million Trilogy shares, or 10 percent of the company. The DoD will also hold warrants for an additional 7.5 percent, exercisable only after the road is constructed.

The funds are earmarked for exploration and development of the Upper Kobuk projects.

According to the release, the DoD will work to facilitate financing for the road’s construction and collaborate with Trilogy to expedite mine permitting using the FAST-41 process.

In an update on October 24, Trilogy stated that the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority executed the right-of-way permits for the Ambler Access Road with the US Army Corps of Engineers, the National Parks Service and the Bureau of Land Management, which re-established the necessary federal authorizations to advance the project.

Shares of Trilogy reached a year-to-date high of C$14.70 on October 14.

5. Northern Dynasty Minerals (TSX:NDM)

Year-to-date gain: 234.12 percent
Market cap: C$1.53 billion
Share price: C$2.84

Northern Dynasty Minerals is an exploration and development company focused on the Pebble project, a copper-molybdenum-gold-silver project located 200 miles southwest of Anchorage in the Bristol Bay region of Alaska.

Pebble, which the company says is “one of the greatest stores of mineral wealth ever discovered,” hosts a measured and indicated copper resource of 6.5 billion metric tons and an inferred copper resource of 4.5 billion metric tons.

The Pebble property’s measured and indicated resources for molybdenum, gold and silver total 1.26 million metric tons, 53.82 million ounces and 249.3 million ounces, respectively.

The project stalled in 2020 during the permitting phase following a US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) veto that suggested the proposed mine would damage the Bristol Bay watershed.

Early in 2024, the Supreme Court declined to hear the matter on procedural grounds, sending it back to the federal district court and the federal circuit of appeals before the Supreme Court would hear it.

Northern Dynasty spent the rest of 2024 advancing its case in Alaska’s state court. In March of that year, it announced the filing of actions to vacate the EPA’s veto.

In 2025, shares of Northern Dynasty began to surge following Trump’s March 20 executive order that called for expedited approvals for domestic mineral production and included copper as a strategically important mineral.

Since Trump became president, Northern Dynasty has been attempting to work with the EPA to vacate the veto on the project. On February 18, the company agreed to grant the EPA a requested 90 day extension to allow for review by the new leadership in the agency, and granted a further 30 day extension on May 14 and a 20 day extension on June 12.

Although the company had hoped to reach a settlement in early July, it ultimately was forced to file a motion for summary judgment on July 17 to have the EPA veto removed.

The most recent update came on October 8, when Northern Dynasty reported that it had filed a brief with the court and presented arguments as to why the veto should be removed. The company’s president and CEO stated in the release that he believes the company has a strong case.

On November 19, the company provided an updated timeline, noting delays due to the US Federal Government shutdown. It said the Department of Justice must file its opening brief by February 16, 2026, and plaintiffs must file their response by April 15. Northern Dynasty stated that, while it understands the challenges, it believes the extension of the original January 2 date is excessive and would prefer the government withdraw its veto.

The most recent update from the case came on December 1, when the company reported that the National Mining Association, the American Exploration and Mining Association, the Alaska Mining Association and the US Chamber of Commerce filed amicus briefs in support of their case.

The three associations’ summary of their argument began, “This case is exceptionally important to Amicis members, the mining industry, and the nation’s economy. The proposed mine – which the US EPA has unlawfully vetoed – will provide a crucial source of copper for construction, transportation, electrical and electronic projects, industrial machinery, and defense applications.”

Shares of Northern Dynasty reached a year-to-date high of C$3.89 on October 14.

FAQs for investing in copper

Is copper a good investment in 2025?

Many experts have a positive long-term outlook for the red metal based on supply concerns and its growing role in the energy transition. Copper’s price has climbed to new all time highs in 2025, bringing many stocks with it.

Investors who are interested in copper should make sure to perform their due diligence, as the volatility and unpredictability of markets and economies at the moment means that nothing is guaranteed.

What is copper used for?

Copper is used in many industries, from construction to electronics to medical equipment. In fact, in 2022, 32 percent of copper globally was used in equipment manufacturing and 26 percent in building construction.

Two other growing sectors for copper are the burgeoning electric vehicle and green energy industries. Electric vehicles require a significant amount of the red metal per vehicle.

Check out our article on the topic for more copper uses.

How to invest in copper?

Investors can invest in copper in a variety of ways. Holding physical copper is possible, but plenty of storage would be required to hold any significant value of the metal.

For investors looking to invest in the metal without physically holding it, there are a few options. Copper stocks such as those on the TSX, TSXV and ASX are worth looking at. Additionally, there are copper exchange-traded funds and the copper options and futures markets on the London Metal Exchange.

How to invest in a copper ETF?

Copper exchange-traded funds (ETFs) focused on mining companies can be a good way to diversify an investment portfolio, and they can be a more stable option compared to individual copper miners or explorers. There are multiple options available on the market, and they can usually be purchased in the same way one could purchase stocks through a broker or trading platform.

In May 2022, Horizons launched Canada’s first copper equities ETF, the Horizons Copper Producers Index ETF (TSX:COPP). This Canadian copper ETF is focused solely on pure-play and diversified copper-mining companies.

There are multiple ETFs available on the US ARCA exchange as well. The Global X Copper Miners ETF (ARCA:COPX) tracks the Solactive Global Copper Miners Index, which includes copper miners, as well as copper explorers and developers. The other option is the United States Copper Index Fund (ARCA:CPER), which gives investors exposure to copper futures contracts by tracking the SummerHaven Copper Index Total Return.

How is copper priced?

The copper price is tracked in two ways: COMEX copper and London Metal Exchange (LME) copper. The COMEX and LME are both options and futures metal exchanges, with the former being headquartered in New York and the latter in London. COMEX copper is priced by the pound, while LME copper is priced per metric ton.

How is copper processed?

Once copper is mined, the ore goes through multiple steps to reach a market-ready state. First, the ore is ground to roughly separate the rock from the copper, as copper typically only makes up 1 percent of the mined rock.

The resultant copper is then slurried with water and chemical reagents, after which air is used to float the copper to the top of the mixture. After the copper is removed from this, it is typically at 24 to 40 percent purity.

Where is copper mined?

Copper is mined throughout the world, with significant production found on every continent besides Antarctica. Chile was the top producer in 2024, putting out 5.3 million metric tons of the metal. Other major top copper producers are the Democratic Republic of Congo with 3.3 million metric tons, Peru with 2.6 million metric tons and China with 1.8 million metric tons. Indonesia and the US were tied in 2024 at 1.1 million metric tons of copper.

Article by Dean Belder; FAQs by Lauren Kelly.

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, own shares of Northern Dynasty Minerals.

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Located in Idaho’s prolific Silver Valley, the historical Ranger-Page workings and mineralized zones are geologically continuous with the Bunker Hill system

Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV,OTC:SLVDF) (OTCQX: SLVDF) (FSE: 4YW) is pleased to announce that, further to the news release of October 27, 2025, it has completed the sale of the Ranger-Page Project, whereby Bunker Hill Mining Corp. and its subsidiary (together, ‘Bunker Hill’) have acquired from Silver Dollar Resources Inc. and its subsidiary (together, ‘Silver Dollar’ or the ‘Company’), the right, title and interest in the assets related to the Ranger-Page Project located in Shoshone County, Idaho, USA, which includes Silver Dollar’s 75% interest in the Government Gulch property and its related option rights under the Government Gulch Option and Joint Venture Agreement and the Page Mine Mineral Rights Lease and Option Agreement.

Figure 1: Plan map showing the location of the Bunker Hill – Ranger-Page land package in the Silver Valley.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://silverdollarresources.com/images/Ranger-Page/BNKR-RP_Silver-Valley.jpg

‘Finalizing this transaction represents the successful execution of our strategic vision for Ranger-Page. The closing immediately establishes Silver Dollar as a significant and supportive shareholder in a near-term producer, providing our investors with direct, leveraged exposure to the restart of the Bunker Hill Mine that is on track for first production in H1 2026,’ said Greg Lytle, President and CEO of Silver Dollar. ‘We believe this transaction delivers an accelerated path to value creation for our shareholders compared to the independent development of Ranger-Page, and we look forward to the growth of Bunker Hill in the years ahead through production and exploration.’

Figure 2: Cross-Section showing the Bunker Hill – Ranger-Page underground workings and target area.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://silverdollarresources.com/images/Ranger-Page/BunkerHill_RP-X-Section-Target-Area.jpg

Strategic Highlights:

  • Consolidated Land Position: The acquisition unites the Ranger-Page and Bunker Hill properties into a contiguous land package, creating one of the largest and most prospective holdings by any single company in the Silver Valley.

  • Exploration Upside: Historical drilling and production data from the Ranger-Page indicate high-grade silver-lead-zinc mineralization along the Page vein system, which remains open at depth and along strike.

  • Infrastructure Synergies: The Ranger-Page Mines’ existing underground workings and surface access points could provide additional flexibility for future mine planning, ventilation, and exploration access to deeper levels of the Bunker Hill system.

  • Complementary to Restart Plan: The acquisition is aligned with Bunker Hill’s ongoing restart of operations at the Bunker Hill Mine, targeted for H1 2026, and enhances the Company’s upside optionality for future resource expansion and mill feed sources.

  • Community benefits: This has the potential to create more local employment opportunities within the Silver Valley and stimulate procurement from regional suppliers in ways that benefit the local communities.

Transaction Summary

Under the terms of the asset purchase agreement with Bunker Hill, Silver Dollar received 23,333,334 common shares of Bunker Hill valued at approximately $5,800,000 based on yesterday’s closing price of Bunker Hill’s shares on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Bunker Hill common shares will be subject to a statutory six-month hold period and contractual escrow, and will be released in accordance with the following schedule:

Release Date Release Schedule from Contractual Escrow
6-month anniversary of Closing Date 2,333,333 Shares
9-month anniversary of Closing Date 2,333,333 Shares
12-month anniversary of Closing Date Balance of Shares (18,666,668 Shares)

 

About the Ranger-Page Project

Located in a world-class silver district, the Ranger-Page land package covers six historic mines and adjoins the Bunker Hill Mining property. The primary target areas are up and down plunge from historic underground mining, along strike where ground-induced polarization (IP) surveys have identified anomalies, and where surface trenching has identified near-surface mineralization. Additional exploration targets have also been identified away from historic mine infrastructure, using soil geochemical data, mapping, and ground IP survey data.

About Bunker Hill Mining Corp.

Bunker Hill is an American mineral exploration and development company focused on revitalizing its historic mining asset: the renowned zinc, lead, and silver deposit in northern Idaho’s prolific Coeur d’Alene mining district. This strategic initiative aims to breathe new life into a once-productive mine, leveraging modern exploration techniques and sustainable development practices to unlock the potential of this mineral-rich region. Bunker Hill Mining Corp. aims to maximize shareholder value by responsibly harnessing the mineral wealth in the Silver Valley mining district, focusing its efforts on this single, high-potential asset. Information about the Company is available on its website, www.bunkerhillmining.com, or within the SEDAR+ and EDGAR databases.

About Silver Dollar Resources Inc.

Silver Dollar is a dynamic mineral exploration company focused on North America’s premier mining regions. Our portfolio includes the advanced-stage La Joya Silver (Cu-Au) Project, and the early-stage Nora Silver-Gold Project, both located in the prolific Durango-Zacatecas silver gold belt. The Company is fully funded for 2026 having recently closed a financing with continued support from financial backers that include renowned mining investor Eric Sprott, our largest shareholder. Silver Dollar’s management team is committed to an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potential acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions.

For additional information, you can visit our website at silverdollarresources.com, download our investor presentation, and follow us on X at x.com/SilverDollarRes.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD,

Signed ‘Gregory Lytle’

Gregory Lytle,
President, CEO & Director
Silver Dollar Resources Inc.
Direct line: (604) 839-6946
Email: greg@silverdollarresources.com
179 – 2945 Jacklin Road, Suite 416
Victoria, BC, V9B 6J9

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, ‘forward-looking statements’) within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein including, without limitation, statements regarding the closing of the transaction, the benefits of the transaction for the Company, the exploration and development potential of the Ranger-Page and Bunker Hill projects, and the Company’s strategy and future plans, are forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by words such as ‘pro forma,’ ‘plans,’ ‘expects,’ ‘will,’ ‘may,’ ‘should,’ ‘budget,’ ‘scheduled,’ ‘estimates,’ ‘forecasts,’ ‘intends,’ ‘anticipates,’ ‘believes,’ ‘potential’ or variations of such words including negative variations thereof, and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has made certain assumptions, including without limitation, the operational restart of the Bunker Hill Mine will proceed as planned, the integration of the Ranger-Page and Bunker Hill properties will deliver the anticipated operational and exploration synergies, and that market conditions for silver, zinc, and lead will remain supportive.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, the operational restart of the Bunker Hill Mine may be delayed or unsuccessful, the integration of the Ranger-Page and Bunker Hill properties may not deliver the anticipated operational and exploration synergies, and market conditions for silver, zinc, and lead may deteriorate. 

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release except as otherwise required by law.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this news release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/277808

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Apex Resources Inc. (TSXV: APX,OTC:SLMLF) (OTCID: SLMLF) (‘Apex’ or the ‘Company’) announces the appointment of Michael Malana as Chief Financial Officer (‘CFO’) of the Company, effective today, following the resignation of Dennis Cojuco as the Company’s CFO.

Mr. Malana brings more than 20 years of international experience in financial management, financial reporting and general corporate governance. He has held senior financial executive roles across the natural resources, biotechnology, and manufacturing sectors. Mr. Malana holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Concordia University and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (Certified Management Accountant).

The Board, management, and extended Apex team extend their sincere thanks to Mr. Cojuco for his exemplary service and dedication and contribution to the company.

Clarification on the Amended Lithium Creek Project Option Agreement

The Company also wishes to clarify that the exploration and development expenditures due to be completed on or before August 25, 2026, in its news release dated October 27, 2025, increased from $1,000,000 (instead of $1,200,000) to $1,266,000.

About Apex Resources Inc.

Apex is a Vancouver-based exploration company with a suite of precious and critical minerals projects and historic mines located in the United States and Canada.

The Lithium Creek Project is Apex’s flagship project with placer claims covering hundreds of square miles within the aerially extensive Fernley, Humboldt, and Carson Sinks, and includes widespread naturally flowing lithium brine groundwater. The Lithium Creek Project is strategically located near the City of Reno and within 40 minutes of the principle North American battery hub, hosting the Tesla Gigafactory and other key industry players in the Lithium Ion battery supply chain.

The Jersey-Emerald Property is wholly owned by Apex and encompasses the historic Jersey Lead-Zinc Mine – British Columbia’s second largest historic zinc mine, and the Emerald Tungsten Mine – Canada’s second largest historic tungsten mine, both located in southern British Columbia.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of

Apex Resources Inc.

Ron Lang
President and CEO
info@apxresources.com website: www.apexresources.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term in defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/277830

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Ground radiometrics, soil geochemistry and mapping reinforce the potential for a Rossing-style system beneath shallow cover

ReeXploration Inc. (TSXV: REE) (FSE: K2I0) (‘ReeXploration’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce results from its uranium field program, which provide strong support for the scale and technical validity of the previously-announced uranium target at the Eureka Project in Namibia. The Company believes the target has the potential to represent a large, under-cover Rössing-style uranium system. A drill program is planned for early 2026 to provide initial testing of the target.

HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Strong correlation between airborne and ground uranium signatures strengthens confidence in continuity of target
    • Areas of very high total gamma readings, including zones above 1,500 counts per second (‘cps’), identified above interpreted leucogranites
  • Soil geochemistry confirms the radiometric signal is uranium-bearing
    • Uranium-rich soils mapped with values up to 114 ppm U (pXRF)
  • Mapping highlights key indicators consistent with Rössing-style uranium systems
    • Favourable rock types and grab samples up to 853 ppm U (pXRF) provide encouraging indicators of a uranium-bearing system below cover
  • Evidence points to a large, cohesive uranium system
    • Geological setting and signature show strong similarity with known Namibian uranium systems (Rössing, Omaholo and Etango) when compared at equal scale
  • Drill program planned to test Rössing-style model
    • Program aims to provide initial testing of the large-scale target

Christopher Drysdale, Interim CEO for ReeXploration, added, ‘This field program has materially advanced our understanding of the uranium target at Eureka. The strong alignment between airborne radiometrics, ground radiometrics, geology and soil geochemistry provides exactly the type of multi-layered confirmation you want to see before drilling. Namibia is one of the world’s most important uranium jurisdictions, and Eureka lies in the same structural corridor that hosts Rössing, Husab, Etango, Omaholo and Norasa. The scale of this anomaly, and the quality of the early technical indicators, point to a meaningful discovery opportunity.’

Field Program Results

Four grids across the broad airborne uranium anomalies southwest of the Eureka Dome were defined for follow-up ground investigation (Figure 1). A ground spectrometer survey and soil sampling program were executed by the Company across the four grids. The objectives included obtaining a greater understanding of the nature, cause and extent of the anomalies, and identifying any highly anomalous areas.

Figure 1: Grids 1 to 4 covering the airborne uranium radiometric anomalies.

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Ground Spectrometer Survey

A total of 102-line kilometers of ground spectrometer survey was completed across the four grids, with survey lines running east-west and spaced 100 m apart. Overall, a very good correlation was achieved with the airborne radiometric uranium anomalies. The ground surveying highlighted areas of very high anomalism with values up to 2,255 cps. Low radioactivity corresponds with more massive calc-silicate exposure, covered areas, and drainage sediments, whereas high radioactivity corresponds with gypcretes/calcretes overlying leucogranite. Secondary uranium (carnotite) was found in the overburden (sand/sheetwash), as well as in in-situ leucogranite and schist. Sand cover increases to south attenuating radioactive signal (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Ground spectrometer survey completed across the four grids.

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The field spectrometer survey has confirmed the regional scale of the airborne radiometric uranium anomalies. The anomalies relate to widespread uranium mineralization occurring within thin overburden, which is best visible where drainages have incised a regionally occurring gypcrete/calcrete horizon with anomalous values ranging from 300 to 1,500 cps (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Mineralized leucogranite and gypcrete/calcrete found during reconnaissance field work and the ground spectrometer survey.

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Soil Sampling pXRF Results

A total of 1,040 soil samples were collected across the four grids at 100 x 100 m spacing and analyzed with the Company’s portable XRF. High uranium in soils are evident where secondary uranium (carnotite) was found in gypcrete / calcretes primarily along drainages (Figure 4).

Figure 4: Uranium in soil pXRF results from the soil sampling campaign.

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Initial Drill Target Areas

Six initial drill target areas have been identified based on coincident; 1) airborne uranium radiometric anomalies, 2) high total gamma (>500 cps) from ground spectrometer survey, 3) uranium in soils (>10 ppm pXRF), and 4) zones of interpreted leucogranites in contact with reactive calc-silicate rocks (Figure 5). The target areas include occurrences of visible secondary uranium mineralization identified within leucogranites and gypcretes/calcretes.

Figure 5: Initial drill target areas.

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Next Steps: Diamond Drilling Expected to Commence Early 2026

ReeXploration is in the final stages of contractor selection and anticipates mobilizing in early 2026 for a 2,000-metre inaugural diamond drilling program. The program is designed to test for primary uranium mineralization within the leucogranites (Rössing-style model) beneath the weathering profile. Drilling is expected to comprise a series of heel-to-toe drill fences across priority target areas. The initial program is planned to consist of approximately ten holes averaging 200 metres in length. A detailed drilling schedule will be released once mobilization dates are confirmed, and the program remains subject to financing.

Technical Disclosure

Field analysis of rock and soil samples was carried out using a calibrated SciAps X-555 portable X-Ray Fluorescence (pXRF) analyzer. The instrument is capable of detecting uranium providing a rapid, preliminary, and semi-quantitative indication of uranium concentrations which is considered sufficiently reliable for initial reporting of initial field reconnaissance results. Select samples are expected to be verified through uranium assay at an accredited laboratory.

Counts per second (‘cps’) results were collected using an RS-125 handheld gamma-ray spectrometer. The RS-125 measures natural radioactivity from potassium (K), uranium (U), and thorium (Th), providing real-time counts-per-second (cps) readings that assist in identifying zones of elevated radioactivity and guiding geological mapping and sampling programs. The cps measurements are qualitative in nature and should not be interpreted as equivalent to uranium concentrations obtained through laboratory analysis.

Qualified Person

Tolene Kruger, BSc. (Hons), M.Sc., is a consulting geologist and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release. Mrs. Kruger is registered as Professional Natural Scientist (Pr.Sci.Nat.) with the South African Council for Natural Science Professions (SACNASP, Reg. No.: 148182), and a Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About ReeXploration Inc.

ReeXploration (TSXV: REE) (FSE: K2I0) is a Canadian exploration company positioned to help meet surging global demand for secure, responsible supplies of critical minerals essential to the clean energy transition, advanced technologies and national defense. The Company’s flagship Eureka Project in central Namibia pairs a technically proven rare earth foundation – supported by the production of a clean, Western-standard monazite concentrate – with a newly defined, high-priority uranium target located within one of the world’s most established uranium corridors. Together, these commodities provide multi-path discovery potential aligned with accelerating global efforts to diversify critical mineral and nuclear fuel supply. Supported by a Namibia-based technical team and guided by global critical minerals experts, ReeXploration is advancing a disciplined, discovery-led strategy, building a credible, ESG-aligned platform positioned to benefit from the global race to diversify and secure responsible supply chains.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release may contain forward-looking information. This information is based on current expectations and assumptions (including assumptions relating to general economic and market conditions) that are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Actual results may differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking information. Exploration does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information in this release, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information unless and until required by securities laws applicable to ReeXploration. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties is contained in the filings made by ReeXploration with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Further details are available on the Corporation’s website at www.rareearthexploration.com or contact Christopher Drysdale, Interim CEO of ReeXploration Inc., at +1 902-334-1949, contact@rareearthexploration.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/277795

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Have a night, Kyle Pitts.

The Atlanta Falcons’ fifth-year tight end had the kind of game on ‘Thursday Night Football’ that his team hoped would be a lot more common when it made him the fourth overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Pitts set new career-high numbers in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns against the Buccaneers and accomplished something no tight end has since 1996.

According to NFL senior researcher Tony Holzman-Escareno, Pitts is the first tight end to have 150-plus yards and 3-plus touchdowns in a game since Shannon Sharpe did it in Week 6 of that 1996 season.

The Falcons’ tight end finished with 13 more yards on two fewer catches than Sharpe did in his big game 29 years ago.

In the absence of Drake London, who missed his fourth straight game with a PCL sprain, Pitts stepped up in a massive way. Here’s a closer look at his numbers during his career night against the Bucs in Week 15:

Kyle Pitts stats

Pitts is having the best game of his career in the Week 15 edition of ‘Thursday Night Football.’

With just over three minutes to play, here’s how his stats against the Buccaneers look so far:

  • Targets: 12
  • Receptions: 11
  • Receiving yards: 166
  • Yards per reception: 15.1
  • Touchdowns: 3

Pitts had one touchdown all season coming into tonight’s game. He quadrupled that season total in one evening against the Bucs in Week 15.

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  • Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen and New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye have the same agents and developed their friendship that way.
  • Maye is an NFL MVP candidate in his second season and leads the league in completion percentage and passer rating.
  • The Patriots and Bills are set to face off on Sunday, Dec. 14. New England can win the AFC East for the first time since 2019.
  • Allen recently broke the record for most career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback and continues to be a dual-threat danger.

To say Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has mentored New England Patriots second-year signal-caller Drake Maye would be a stretch. 

The two share agents through Creative Artists Agency (CAA), the powerhouse representation firm, and the connection has meant they’ve spent plenty of time in the same spaces and even trained alongside each other briefly. The conversations were more about life than football, but “any opportunity I can to help somebody,” Allen said, “I’m willing to do that.” 

Comparing the two, despite the obvious physical similarities – tall, right-handed gunslingers who can be equally deadly with their pocket mobility and legs – makes for good media discussion, Maye said. He’d be the first to say he has a long way to go to rival the 2024 NFL MVP. But Maye soon may match him in the hardware department, as the North Carolina product entered the Patriots’ Week 14 bye as the betting favorite to win the award this season.

“But I’m honored,” Maye said. “If that comparison is there with Josh, I’m honored to be compared to a guy like him at his level. I think I’m a far, long ways away from playing like him, and he’s, like I said, the best in the game. I’m looking forward to another matchup when we meet versus him.” 

That next meeting is Sunday, Dec. 14. A Patriots victory would give head coach Mike Vrabel’s team its first division title since 2019 in his first season at the helm in New England and snap the Bills’ streak of five consecutive AFC East crowns. 

“This is a great stage that we’ve put ourselves on,” Vrabel said. 

Riding a 10-game winning streak, New England is in this position in no small part due to Maye’s breakout campaign. Maye led the league in completion percentage (71.5) and passer rating (111.9) entering Week 14. 

“He’s playing like a veteran quarterback. He’s seeing things extremely well. He plays at a great pace. It looks like things have slowed down for him. Which, again, we hate to see that, right?” Allen said with a smile. “But I’m happy for how well he’s playing because he’s a great human being on top of being a great football player. Just got to find a way to win on Sunday.” 

Allen, who earlier this season broke Cam Newton’s record for most career rushing touchdowns by a quarterback, is the first player in NFL history with 20 or more passing scores and 10 or more rushing touchdowns in three different seasons (2023-25). He entered the matchup against the Patriots leading all QBs with 487 rushing yards and 12 scores.

His 40-yard touchdown run against the Cincinnati Bengals came with the defense playing man coverage to the degree Allen strolled past a defender who had his back turned to the play. When the Bills faced a third-and-15 later in the game, Allen iced the snowy proceedings with a 17-yard dash for a first down. Suffice to say, Allen’s legs create a myriad of problems for defenses. No defense can call a particular coverage, defense or blitz package against him for the entire game, Vrabel said. 

“I think it’s about picking the opportunities and then when you get an opportunity to make a play on him, you’ve got to do everything that you can to get him on the ground, not jump when he pump-fakes, fall down when he stiff-arms you or anything else,” he said. 

Vrabel said the mantra of “keeping him in the pocket,” often applied to playmaking quarterbacks, is too simple. 

“We can all just stand there, and he’ll do this,” said Vrabel, mimicking Allen’s throwing motion. “You have to just – again, coordinated and relentless is probably the best way to phrase it. Because, again, you say, ‘Well, keep him in the pocket.’ And then guys are just standing there and they’re cautious, and we don’t want to coach that way. We want to make sure that we’re trying to remain aggressive, but certainly sound. When he does extend, then we’re going to need to plaster and have guys be able to come up and help us.’

That is one area of Allen’s game that Maye has certainly paid attention to, is how the Bills quarterback looks off defenders or executes a pump-fake while scrambling to the edge. 

“He’s very down to earth. I like to say I’m down to earth,” Maye said Oct. 1. “He’s a great player. Golly, it’s fun watching him. He makes some plays every week that you’re like, ‘Man, that’s pretty cool.’ 

“Stuff like that, that he’s so good at. From there, he’s great throwing down the field and great at extending plays, moving guys and scramble drill. So, he’s great.”

Maye venerated quarterbacks such as Allen and the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers, who he faced in Week 3 (the last time the Pats lost). Facing them as competitors doesn’t completely erase the admiration.

“When you’re playing against these guys that are the best quarterbacks in the league, you want to compete with them,” Maye said. “You want to beat them, and you want to kind of master their level, but at the same time, you still want to take things from them and realize and appreciate what they’re doing for the game, what they’ve done for their careers and the players they are.

“Josh is one of them. He’s fun to watch, and he’s one of the best, if not the best, in the game right now. So, he’s playing at a really high level, and it’s always fun to watch. He’s been good to me, and I appreciate the relationship he’s built with me.” 

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Indiana won its first outright Big Ten title since 1945 and was rewarded with seven players on the 2025 USA TODAY Sports Network All-Big Ten team.

Ten players earned unanimous first team All-Big Ten honors, led by Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza (Offensive Player of the Year), Ohio State DB Caleb Downs (Defensive Player of the Year) and Iowa kick returner Kaden Wetjen (Specialist of the Year).

Mendoza also won Big Ten Newcomer of the Year with his coach Curt Cignetti the unanimous pick for Big Ten Coach of the Year.

Here is the rest of the 2025 postseason All-Big Ten team as determined by beat writers who cover the league for USA TODAY Sports Network.

USA TODAY Network All-Big Ten team

* denotes unanimous selection

OFFENSE

  • QB: Fernando Mendoza, Indiana*
  • RB: Emmett Johnson, Nebraska*
  • RB: Kaytron Allen, Penn State*
  • WR: Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State*
  • WR: Makai Lemon, USC
  • TE: Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon*
  • OL: Carter Smith, Indiana*
  • OL: Logan Jones, Iowa
  • OL: Beau Stephens, Iowa
  • OL: Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon
  • OL: Vega Ioane, Penn State

DEFENSE

  • DL: Derrick Moore, Michigan
  • DL: Caden Curry, Ohio State
  • DL: Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
  • DL: Tyrique Tucker, Indiana
  • LB: Sonny Styles, Ohio State*
  • LB: Aiden Fisher, Indiana
  • LB: Arvell Reese, Ohio State
  • DB: Caleb Downs, Ohio State*
  • DB: D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana
  • DB: Louis Moore, Indiana
  • DB: Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

SPECIALISTS

  • K: Nico Radicic, Indiana
  • P: Ryan Eckley, Michigan State*
  • Returner: Kaden Wetjen, Iowa*

Also receiving first team votes

  • WR: Omar Cooper Jr. (Indiana)
  • OL: Caleb Tiernan (Northwestern), Iapani Laloulu (Oregon), Gennings Dunker (Iowa), Austin Siereveld (Ohio State), Trevor Lauck (Iowa), Matt Gulbin (Michigan State)
  • DL: Gabe Jacas (Illinois), A’mauri Washington (Oregon), Stephen Daley (Indiana)
  • LB: Rolijah Hardy (Indiana), Isaiah Jones (Indiana)
  • DB: Bishop Fitzgerald (USC), Davison Igbinosun (Ohio State), Zach Lutmer (Iowa), Brandon Finney Jr. (Oregon)
  • K: Drew Stevens (Iowa), Sean O’Haire (Maryland), Mateen Baghani (UCLA)

Big Ten postseason award winners

  • Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana*
  • Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year: DB Caleb Downs, Ohio State
  • Big Ten Specialist of the Year: KR Kaden Wetjen, Iowa
  • Big Ten Coach of the Year: Curt Cignetti, Indiana*
  • Big Ten Newcomer of the Year: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
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