No resolution in talks over equal pay for U.S. women’s soccer

Players for the World Cup champion women’s national team say mediation talks with the U.S. Soccer Federation in their dispute over equal pay are over.

Molly Levinson, who represents the players in matters concerning the dispute, said in a statement Aug. 14 that the players look forward to a jury trial.

“We entered this week’s mediation with representatives of USSF full of hope,” Levinson said. “Today we must conclude these meetings sorely disappointed in the federation’s determination to perpetuate fundamentally discriminatory workplace conditions and behavior.”

U.S. Soccer did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Aug. 14.

The players sued the federation in March, charging institutionalized gender discrimination that includes inequitable compensation when compared with their counterparts on the men’s national team. The USSF countered that pay and benefits for members of the men’s and women’s teams, bargained by separate unions, can’t be compared and said there was no basis for allegations of illegal conduct.

NBA

JAMES DEDICATES COURT

IN AKRON>> LeBron James went back to school and back in time.

Joined by four high school teammates, the NBA superstar dedicated a multicolored outdoor basketball court at the I Promise School, which he founded last year for underprivileged children in his hometown.

James took a break from his starring role in “Space Jam 2,” currently in production, to spend time with the kids and support his family foundation.

Before taking the court for a quick pickup game against the youngsters, James took the microphone and addressed the kids, encouraging them to chase their dreams the way he and his friends have.

MLB

ARRIETA’S SEASON LIKELY OVER>> Phillies right-hander Jake Arrieta likely will have season-ending surgery soon because of a bone spur in his pitching elbow. Arrieta, who was placed on the 10-day injured list, has been pitching through pain for several starts but his inability to go more than five innings led him to shut it down. He was scheduled for an MRI on Aug. 15 and will determine his course of action afterward.