Connections: Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 16, 2026, puzzle No. 661

July 16, 2026 - 04:35

Welcome back to the daily huddle for puzzle No. 661. Today's grid presents a fresh set of terms that might trip up even seasoned fans if they are not paying attention to the categories. As always, the goal is to sort 16 words into four distinct groups of four. Some connections are straightforward, while others require a bit of lateral thinking about team names, equipment, or common sports lingo.

For those looking for a gentle nudge before the full reveal, here are some general hints. One category involves terms related to a specific piece of protective gear used across multiple sports. Another group shares a common word that can precede each term to form a well-known phrase or team name. A third category is all about actions you might see in a single, fast-paced game. The final group might trip you up if you focus too much on the literal meaning of the words, as they are actually nicknames for specific positions or roles.

If you are ready for the answers, scroll down. The first group is "HOCKEY EQUIPMENT" and includes the words PUCK, STICK, HELMET, and PADS. The second group, "WORDS THAT FOLLOW 'RED'," features SOX, WINGS, SKINS, and BULLS. The third category is "BASKETBALL MOVES" and contains DRIBBLE, PASS, SHOOT, and REBOUND. Finally, the tricky fourth group is "SLANG FOR A GOALIE" and includes NETMINDER, TENDER, BACKSTOP, and KEEPER. Good luck with tomorrow's puzzle.