Appeals court tosses out Clemens suit

Baseball: A federal appeals court refused to reinstate a defamation lawsuit disgraced former pitcher Roger Clemens filed against his former personal trainer, Brian McNamee, who claims he injected Clemens with steroids and human growth hormone more than a dozen times.

In a 2-1 ruling, a panel of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with a Houston federal district judge’s dismissal last year of most of Clemens’ claims against McNamee.

Georgia to name McGarity as new A.D.

COLLEGES: Georgia moved quickly to hire Damon Evans’ replacement as athletic director, hiring Florida associate athletic director Greg McGarity, a person familiar with the search told the Associated Press.

• NCAA board asks for tougher academic standards: The NCAA’s board of directors agreed to back a new proposal requiring incoming freshmen to have their academic records assessed by university officials. Those in need of additional classwork would have to take at least six credit hours during summer school, earning at least three credits, to become eligible in the fall.

Lee makes final 8 at Women’s Amateur

Golf: Erynne Lee became the only tri-medalist to advance to the round of eight at the U.S. Women’s Amateur, defeating Lizette Salas 3 and 1 at Charlotte Country Club at Charlotte, N.C.

Blazers name two to assistant GM posts

NBA: The Portland Trail Blazers have named Bill Branch and Steve Rosenberry as assistant general managers to Rich Cho.

• 76ers hire Thorn as president: The Philadelphia 76ers have hired Rod Thorn as team president. The Sixers also said that Ed Stefanski will stay as general manager.

Williams sisters commit to Fed Cup

Tennis: Serena and Venus Williams told the U.S. Tennis Association they plan to play in the Fed Cup final against Italy in November.

Neither Williams has competed in the Fed Cup since 2007.

Beckham to reject final England game

Soccer: A person familiar with David Beckham’s plans says the former England captain will reject the chance to play in one final match for his country.

Coach Fabio Capello announced Wednesday that the 35-year-old Beckham was too old to continue playing competitively for England, but offered him one last appearance in an exhibition match.