Click here for today's Connections hints, as well as our daily answers and hints for The New York Times Mini Crossword, Wordle and Strands puzzles. Connections: Sports Edition might be the toughest one I've tackled.

The success of NYT Connections reflects a broader trend of rising interest in word games globally. Alongside classics like Wordle, Connections has become a daily ritual for many seeking a brief yet stimulating mental workout.

The spangram describes the puzzle’s theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words. The spangram highlights in yellow when found. An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR,