The questions from today’s “January 1, 2026” on NYT Mini Crossword are a little bit brain teaser. Many people are looking for an answer to it. Here we are sharing answers for clues.
Clue: First-string squad
Answer: ATEAM

Explanation of clue:
The term “ATEAM” refers to a group of individuals who are considered the best or most skilled at what they do, often used in the context of sports or business. In sports, the “A-team” is typically comprised of the starting players or those who are the first choice for the lineup, known for their superior skills and performance. This term is also widely applicable in other fields, such as business, where an “A-team” might refer to a top-performing project group or a team of executives working on crucial tasks. The phrase underscores the idea of excellence and priority, drawing a distinction from secondary or backup teams, which might be referred to as “B-teams” or “second-string” squads. In crossword puzzles, the clue “First-string squad” aptly describes “ATEAM” as it directly points to the premiere group in any competitive or professional setting.
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