An Alabama jury finds The New York Times defamed a college basketball player by incorrectly reporting that he was at the scene of a fatal shooting in Tuscaloosa. Jurors on Thursday awarded $9.25 million in damages. Kai Spears, who played for the University of Alabama men’s team, sued the Times in 2023 after it published a report that falsely indicated he was a passenger in a car involved in the shooting. An attorney for Spears says the verdict will improve journalism throughout the country.  A Times spokesperson calls the verdict not supported by evidence and says the newspaper is reviewing its legal options.