Newsmakers
Wins A 50-year-old computer technician from McHenry, Ill., made a half-court shot to win $75,000 and a hug from LeBron James between periods of Friday’s NBA game between the Detroit Pistons and host Miami Heat. As part of a contest sponsored by James’ foundation, Michael Drysch hit a one-handed hook shot from midcourt. James watched from the bench, and when the shot swished in, he happily sprinted toward Drysch and embraced him, and both tumbled to the court. “Nice way to meet somebody,” Drysch said. “I can’t believe it.”
Signed The Mariners signed catcher Ronny Paulino to a minor league deal with an invite to the major league camp. Last season, Paulino, 31, played 20 games for Baltimore and spent the rest of the year in Triple-A. Paulino previously played parts of eight major league seasons with three clubs, hitting .272 in 573 games.
Acquired Former Dallas guard Delonte West has been acquired by the NBA Development League affiliate of the Mavericks but will not play for Dallas, according to Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. West was released in October after two suspensions.
Agreed Infielder Joaquin Arias has agreed to a $925,000, one-year contract with the San Francisco Giants to avoid salary arbitration. Arias batted .270 with five homers and 34 RBIs in 112 games last season.
• NHL All-Star center Jamie Benn and the Dallas Stars have agreed to a $26.25 million, five-year contract. He played in Germany during the lockout.
Apologized Minnesota Timberwolves guard Ricky Rubio said he has apologized to acting coach Terry Porter for an outburst following a loss. Rubio had been upset that he was on the bench for the fourth quarter of a game against Brooklyn on Wednesday.
Claimed The Kansas City Royals claimed catcher George Kottaras off waivers from the Athletics and designated infielder Tony Abreu for assignment. Kottaras hit .220 with 24 homers and 84 RBIs in 249 career games with the Red Sox, Brewers and Athletics.
Charged Chelsea winger Eden Hazard faces an extended ban after being charged by the Football Association for kicking a ball boy during a League Cup match. The FA gave Hazard until Tuesday to respond to the charge.