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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Connections: Sports Edition puzzle #480 is the January 16, 2026 puzzle. For a spoiler-light solve, start with the hints below; the complete four groups and their words follow in a clearly marked spoiler section.
How Connections: Sports Edition works
The sports-focused version of NYT Connections, associated with The Athletic, asks players to sort 16 words into four groups of four based on a shared thread. The NYT instruction reproduced by Parade is to “group sports terms that share a common thread.”
Hints for puzzle #480
Try these clues in order, from least to most specific. The category names and answers are below, so stop here if you want to solve without spoilers.
- Yellow: Don’t get hurt!
- Green: Exaggerated language.
- Blue: Ouch!
- Purple: Not northern; think of the Yankee association.
Spoilers: January 16 answers
| Category | Words |
|---|---|
| PROTECTIVE GEAR | GLOVES, HELMET, MOUTH GUARD, SHOULDER PADS |
| HYPE | ANTICIPATION, BALLYHOO, BUILDUP, BUZZ |
| SHARP THINGS | DART, HAIRPIN TURN, ICE SKATE, JAVELIN |
| “SOUTHERN ____” SCHOOLS | CALIFORNIA, ILLINOIS, METHODIST, MISS |
Why the words fit
Protective gear
Gloves, a helmet, a mouth guard and shoulder pads are equipment worn to protect an athlete.
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#1 Best Overall
- Variety puzzles/game books assorted
Hype
Anticipation, ballyhoo, buildup and buzz all describe excitement or attention surrounding something.
Sharp things
This set uses “sharp” in more than one way: a dart and javelin have points, an ice skate has a blade edge, and a hairpin turn is a sharp turn.
Rank #2
- Sports Heroes: A celebration of legendary athletes, this puzzle captures moments of triumph, resilience, and dedication, evoking the inspiration and admiration sports heroes bring to fans everywhere.
- 1,000 Pc Large: This puzzle features larger, simple to pick up pieces that are also easier to see, creating a fun activity for family and friends.
- Artist: James Mellett brings this collection of iconic sports heroes to life with vibrant details, showcasing athletes from diverse sports in a colorful, nostalgic tribute to athletic greatness.
- USA: We take pride in our puzzles so all of them are manufactured in America. They also come with the Happiness Guarantee. We will replace your puzzle for free if you are not happy.
- Quality: White Mountain is known for our precision cutting technique so each piece fits just right. Our puzzles measure 24”x30” when finished. Visit our store page to see a wide variety of puzzles.
“Southern ____” schools
Each word completes the name of a school: Southern California, Southern Illinois, Southern Methodist and Southern Miss.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- BANNED BOOKS COLLAGE: Knowledge is power! Featuring nostalgic imagery of iconic book covers, this jigsaw puzzle is crisp and colorful. It features classic and retro covers of banned books, like “The Color Purple,” “Of Mice and Men,” “The Glass Castle,” “Bad Kitty,” and so many more.
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Rank #4
- Kids Puzzle
- Box size: 8" x 8" x 2.37"
- Finished Puzzle Size: 13" x 19"
- Manufactured using the highest quality blue board
- Made in the USA using the highest quality blueboard
Rank #3
- I Love Football: Relive the excitement of game day with this puzzle, where every piece brings you closer to the thrilling action, passionate fans, and unforgettable memories that make football a beloved tradition.
- 1,000 Pc Large: This puzzle features larger, simple to pick up pieces that are also easier to see, creating a fun activity for family and friends.
- Artist: Charlie Girard’s energetic design captures the essence of football fandom, combining vintage football memorabilia, iconic moments, and bold graphics to celebrate the sport's rich history.
- USA: We take pride in our puzzles so all of them are manufactured in America. They also come with the Happiness Guarantee. We will replace your puzzle for free if you are not happy.
- Quality: White Mountain is known for our precision cutting technique so each piece fits just right. Our puzzles measure 24”x30” when finished. Visit our store page to see a wide variety of puzzles.
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