Monday, April 30, 2007
Defending Champs Swept
This is the first series win for the Bulls since the 1998 season when Michael Jordan lead the Bulls to a sixth NBA title. The Bulls now face 1 seed Detroit, who also swept their series with the Orlando Magic. I originally choose the Pistons to win in 6 games, but I think it could go 7 games and the Bulls might just pull another upset.
In the West, the 1 seed in struggling Big time against the Golden State Warriors. Last night the Warriors pulled out the victory at home and now lead the Mavs 3-1 as they head back to Dallas for game 5. This is a major shocker. Many peoples favorite to win the NBA Title, are now on the brink of being eliminated in the first round by an 8 seed.
What a story the Warriors are. A young team being lead by a Hall of Fame coach in Don Nelson. I really like this team, they play their style of play much like the Suns, trying to get a shot as quick as possible. They are a very good coached team and play with a lot of intensity. Look for the Warriors to pull the upset in game 6.
The series of the first round is the Rockets and Jazz. Tied at 2-2, they head back to Houston tonight for game 5. This game has been really intense, much like I suspected. I'm still going with T-Mac and Yao to pull out the series win in game 7.
Well the NFL Draft was this past weekend and it went really well for some teams. The Raiders chose QB Jamarcus Russell with the first pick. The shocker of the first round was QB Brady Quinn fell all the way down to pick 22, where the Browns traded picks with the Cowboys and selected their QB of the future. Quinn wanted to go to Cleveland all along, having grown up being a Browns fan.
The two teams that made the most noise this past weekend were the New England Patriots and San Francisco 49ers. The Patriots had a good trade overall and then brought in a major piece to improve their deep offense. Wide Receiver Randy Moss, who has had trouble with the Raiders got traded to the Patriots to join Tom Brady's offense improving their very deep receiving group. In free agency they brought in four wide receivers including Dante Stallworth. They also improved their defense, so I think the Patriots are out for blood having missed the going to the Super Bowl the past two seasons after winning two straight. I sadly have to say that they have got to be every ones favorite as choice to represent the AFC in this years Super Bowl.
The other team that had a great draft and off season was San Francisco. For the second straight year they brought in two first round picks to help improve their team. They also made a trade for a veteran Wide Receiver with the Seahawks bringing in Darrell Jackson. The 49ers are one of the up and coming teams in the league, having improved the past two seasons and are now rolling with Nolan as we 49ers fans like to say. Look for the 49ers to have a greater than .500 record this season and challenge for the NFC West Division title.
Tomorrow is the first of May and that means it's almost Summer! I can't wait! Have a good one.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
What's going on
I'm going to get to the point of today. Latest news out of the MLB goes back to 2004 ALCS and Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling's bloody sock. Does anyone remember that year when the Red Sox broke the curse and won 8 straight games to beat the Yankees and Cardinals for the World Series Title.
News has it that Schillings bloody sock was staged. That's bogus, flat out bogus. The guy pitched game 6 against the Yankees trailing 3 games to 1, with an ankle that has stitches in it. Schilling said himself, one of the stitches came lose and his scar just started bleeding and he played through it. Not only did he play through it he shut down the Yankees and won the game.
Well of course there will be speculation because people these days don't know how to believe anything without speculation. Like Curt says, if you don't believe it is blood, go to the Baseball Hall of Fame and check the DNA in the sock. Well knowing how crazy people are these days, I wouldn't doubt that happening in the next week or so.
All Game twos are over and now it is time to go to the lower seeds city for crucial game three. Defending champs are back in Miami in a 2-0 hole. How will they win? Probably only if Wade plays like he is supposed to. Oh that's right he can't because he is playing with an injury. Well he better prove everyone wrong and step it up.
On the other side of the country, the Lakers are back in town and also in a 2 game hole. Lakers coach Phil Jackson says expect Kobe to play the whole game. Shoot, might as well. Shot to much in game 1, they lost. Passed to much is game 2, they lost. Might as well go back to shooting to much because they lost by less. They might steal one game at home only is Kobe goes for 100 plus points. Simple as that.
Mad props to Sixth man of the year Leandro Barbosa, Most Improved player Monta Ellis, and Coach of the Year Sam Mitchell. Monta Ellis is a great young player. Did anyone see the Rookie-Sophomore all star game? The guy was flying all over the court, he has impressive hops and we can look forward to hearing about this guy in the future.
NFL Draft this weekend! I can't wait. I love to see how goes where and all the additions to teams. Who will do well and who will make the trade to improve their team. Here is my top five selections from what I have heard:
1. Oakland: QB Jamarcus Russell... They will be right back in this pick position next year.
2. Detroit: DE Gaines Adams... I also think they could make a trade down and possibly take Joe Thomas or Brady Quinn.
3. Cleveland: QB Brady Quinn... They might also take RB Adrian Peterson
4. Tampa Bay: WR Calvin Johnson... They could possibly make a trade with Detroit to move up to assure they get Johnson.
5. Arizona: OT Joe Thomas... Got to protect Matt Leinart
Have a good one!
Monday, April 23, 2007
Rare Sweep
In one inning, four consecutive Red Sex hit back-to-back-to-back-to-back home runs. Yes that's right, four consecutive hitters went yard. And the Sox pulled out an early sweep of the Yankees. The Red Sox have gotten off to a good start so far this season and are looking to keep up the pace and keep rolling. The Yankees on the other hand are having pitching problems, which always seems to hit the Yanks as of late early in their seasons. They bring in the best veterans in the league, only to end up being hurt, not a good sign.
Sad news of the day comes out of college basketball. UNC forward and ACC Freshman of the year Brandon Wright, has declared himself for the NBA draft and will leave after one season in college. Wright is predicted to be picked from 3-7 in the upcoming draft. Wright definitely has the skills and length, he does on the other hand need to gain about 50 pounds instantly. Will be pull a Marvin Williams and go from great in the NCAA to zero in the NBA or will be actually be a factor? I think it could be a little while if he doesn't gain much needed weight.
The NBA playoffs started this past weekend with game 1 in each match up and there were two surprises. The two powerhouses out of Texas fell to lower seeds. Dallas loses at home to Golden State and San Antonio loses at home to Denver.
Denver with the duo of AI and Melo played well and got 61 points from their two superstars and stole home court advantage from a Spurs team that couldn't get any of their shots to fall. Also 8 seed Warriors stole the show in Dallas beating the 67 win Mavs for the fourth time this season showing no fear and now there is speculation that the Warriors can actually pull the upset. They sure do have the offense, so its all up to their defense to remain tough and beat the well coached Mavs. It would be quiet the shocker in deed.
Barry Bonds Update: Hit number 740 of his career yesterday, now trailing by 15 behind Hank Aaron.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Let the games begin
The greatest rivalry in baseball went head to head last night at Fenway for their first meeting of the season. And like always, it didn't lack anything when it comes to Yankees and Red Sox baseball.
It was Schilling against Pettitte and seemed to be a pitchers battle. That wasn't the case at all as the Yankees, led by non other than Alex Rodriguez hit his 11th and 12th home runs of this young season and earned his 30th RBI. After hitting his 12th home run, he became the quickest player in history to reach 12 home runs; he is on a tear so far this season.
But A-Rods performance was over taken as the Red Sox came back in the 8th inning scoring 5 runs to take the lead 7-6 heading into the 9th inning. Not only did the Sox make a great comeback, they did it against Yankees closer Mariano Rivera. To me it seems that the Sox have Riveras number as of late, not bowing down to him at all in any situation.
Enjoy the playoffs, GO CAVS!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Who is the MVP?
Now since then, there have been several players who have been up and down as who the true MVP should be. Here are my top 5 candidates... Mavs Dirk Nowitzki, Suns Steve Nash, Lakers Kobe Bryant, Rockets Tracy Mcgrady and Cavaliers Lebron James. Any one of those players could be the MVP this season in my eyes. But I'm going to go off roding a little bit. I'm usually a get to the destination quickly type of guy, but we're going to take the scenic route this time around.
MVP stands for Most Valuable Player. Key word being Valuable, meaning the most important player to his team. Okay, would the Mavs win 67 games without Dirk? No, but they would be a playoff team in my opinion; Value- 50-50. Suns without Nash, not that good; Value- very important. Lakers without Kobe, garbage. Value- Big time. Rockets without Mcgrady is 50-50 because they have Yao and they can maintain a good record, but Mcgrady brings extra scoring and leadership; Value- 50-50. Cavs without Lebron, they fared well this year, posting a winning record when he didn't play. But he brings that extra pep in their step and keeps the team in line and he is their go-to-guy; Value- pretty high.
So now I got to down to three players: Kobe, Nash, Lebron. Now as far as stats this year to prove their value. Kobe earns back to back scoring titles, Nash once again leads the league in assists, totally the most this season of his career, and Lebron becomes only the second player in NBA history to average 27 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists for the second consecutive season.
If I was a voter, I would choose Lebron. But I am going to be realistic on this choice and say who the true MVP should be.
MJ choice for MVP: Los Angeles Lakers Guard Kobe Bryant.
There you have it. Not a Kobe fan, but I go by the obvious and Kobe by far is the obvious choice as the Most Valuable player on any team in the league. He joined Wilt Chamberlain as the only two players in NBA history to post five games with at least 50 points and the only two players to have 10 games with at least 50 points. So if you need to know who the most potent scorer is in the league, its Kobe. He hasn't had any team success since Shaq left, so let's give him the obvious award he has earned and deserves, MVP.
NBA Playoffs are here!
First I will go over the First round match-ups in each respective conference.
EAST: (1) Detroit Pistions vs. (8) Orlando Magic
(2) Cleveland Cavaliers vs. (7) Washington Wizards
(3) Toronto Raptors vs. (6) New Jersey Nets
(4) Miami Heat vs. (5) Chicago Bulls
WEST: (1) Dallas Mavericks vs. (8) Golden State Warriors
(2) Phoenix Suns vs. (7) Los Angeles Lakers
(3) San Antonio Spurs vs. (6) Denver Nuggets
(4) Utah Jazz vs. (5) Houston Rockets
Those are the eight teams remaining all playing for the chance to be the lone standing team and be called the World Champions for the next year. Will Shaq and Wade lead the Heat to a Repeat effort? How many possible upsets are there? Will the Mavs run the table? I can answer any of your questions or concerns right here, right now. After I address the Playoff Picture, I will pick this years MVP for this seasons regular season. Lets get it started.
EAST: The 1 seed Pistons have been playing strong lately and are all healthy and ready to get the trophy back in their possession. They face a young Magic team. I don't see any chance of an upset in this match up, most likely over in 4 or 5 games.
MJ: Pistons in 4
The Cavaliers used everyday of the season to pull out the 2 seed and will face a depleted Wizards team without their two All-Stars in Gilbert Arenas and Caron Butler. Expect Antwan Jamison to average 30 plus a game in order to give Washington a chance. King James has his Cavs playing together and ready to make an even deeper run in this years playoffs.
MJ: Cavaliers in 5
Here is when it gets interesting in the East when 3 seed Toronto take on 6 seed and division mate New Jersey. If you like to pick upsets, then this would be your best bet. Toronto has played well to end the season and this young team could cause some problems. New Jersey is a veteran team who has been here many times. If their team is healthy and J-Kidd and VC are on point, they can definitely pull the upset of the Raptors. As many of you know Vince Carter will be facing his former team who he carried to the playoffs years ago. Expect this game to go at least 6 games and he a very good series.
MJ: Upset, Nets in 7
My match-up of the East is right here, the defending champs 4 seed Miami take on a very tough 5 seed in Chicago. Now, here is my upset special! Chicago will take down Miami in 7 games. Wade is playing with his injured driving shoulder, so I don't know what to expect from this guy. This series will be won by Miami only if Shaq can carry the majority of the load. This Bulls team has the best home record in the East and can be very tough on defense behind center Ben Wallace. Like I said, there won't be a repeat champion this year.
MJ: Upset, Bulls in 7
WEST: The 1 seed Mavericks face a very tough offensive team in the 8 seed Warriors. Golden State took the season series 3-1, so don't expect a sweep. Yeah the Warriors don't have any experienced playoff players, but they have a good core and have played very well lately. I'm not taking the upset, I am just saying don't expect the Mavs to just walk through this series.
MJ: Mavericks in 5
Here is an intriguing match-up in 2 seed Phoenix facing 7 seed Los Angeles. Last year the two teams played the toughest series of the playoffs. LA lead 3-1 and the Suns won in game 7. Now the two are at it again, this year the Suns will prevail again over MVP candidate Kobe and company.
MJ: Suns in 6
The 3 seed Spurs take on the new look 6 seed Nuggets. Melo and AI have started clicking as of late and are looking to upset the Spurs. I don't see it happening, the Spurs are two tough defensively and efficient on offense. Spurs look to stay hot and continue their playoff excellence.
MJ: Spurs in 6
Here is my upset special in the west. The 4 seed Jazz face the 5 seed Rockets. This will be a classic series of half court offenses and banging Big Men. This match up will appear to be a series that resembles the East of the 90s. T-Mac has had an outstanding season, when he hasn't been hurt and him and Yao will pull out this bang bang series. Jazz PG Deron Williams will do his best to carry the Jazz like he has all season, but the Rockets will prevail.
MJ: Upset, Rockets in 7
Now we are down to the Conference Semifinals:
EAST: (1) Pistons vs. (5) Bulls
MJ: Pistons in 6
(2) Cavaliers vs. (6) Nets
MJ: Cavaliers in 6
WEST: (1) Mavericks vs. (5) Rockets
MJ: Mavericks in 6
(2) Suns vs. (3) Spurs
MJ: Upset, Spurs in 7
Conference Finals: East- (1) Detroit Pistons vs. (2) Cleveland Cavaliers
MJ: Pistons in 7
West- (1) Dallas Mavericks vs. (3) San Antonio Spurs
MJ: Mavericks in 7
2007 NBA FINALS!
EAST (1) Detroit Pistons vs. WEST (1) Dallas Mavericks
This could be a very good match up or it could be lopsided. I haven't figured it out yet, but I see the Mavs pulling it out.
MJ: Mavericks in 6
There you have it. If you have any second guesses, be sure to listen to MJ, he is the champ and knows what's good and what's not. Enjoy this year's playoffs... Will you be there when...
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
I knew something was up...
I knew that was a fishy situation and overall it just didn't seem right. Don't get me wrong, Crawford is one of the best referees in the NBA today, the most experienced in the playoffs having been around for now 31 seasons. He does have a reputation of loosing his cool quickly and often. So on his suspension for the remainder of the season seems right to me. The guy just ejected Tim Duncan who was sitting on the bench and laughing. The new reports also stated that Crawford said Duncan used fowl language towards him and for the Duncan was fined $25, 000 for verbal abuse of an official. I don't really believe these reports, because I am pretty sure those type of situations happen all the time, but this time it got noticed and the league has taken the proper actions. NBA Commissioner David Stern said the NBA decided to suspend him indefinitely due to his lack of appropriate league rules and actions regarding those types of situations.
Will he be missed in the playoffs? Probably not, due to his short temper and excessive use of his harsh actions he takes so quickly. Time for Ole Dick Bavetta to step his game up huh. I am glad that the league reviewed this situation, because it was the wrong decision to eject Duncan from the game and the NBA took the right action I feel.
Also released today was the name of the cover boy for this years up coming game of the summer Madden NFL 08. MVP Ladanian Tomlinson? Super Bowl Champ Peyton Manning? Champ Bailey? Jason Taylor? How about the AFC Rookie of the Year, Tennessee Titans QB Vince Young. Kind of shocking to me, a second year player gets his face on the over of this years Madden game. What about the Madden Curse? Here is my speculation about that...
Ever since 2000 I believe, when Madden started featuring players on its cover, year after year there has been what has developed into what is called the Madden Curse. The cover usually features a player who had a great year and what the games new feature will be, whether its improved running, passing or defense.
The curse comes when a player is on the cover they either get injured or have a bad year overall. Well here is what I think. Instead of a veteran, we now have a second year player who is up and coming and we can still expect struggles out of him. Young proved last season that he can lead the Titans and he did just that after closing out the season with a six game winning streak. Young showed his poise, patience and mobility often keeping the Titans in close games and pulling out wins. So, since Young will only be in his second season and his first as the full time starter, the creators of Madden have finally out thought this so called "curse." If he struggles statistically, it can be excused by he is only a second year player. On the other hand, if he gets injured then my theory will be completely gone.
But I am a Vince Young fan and have been impressed since seeing him in college, especially after that amazing National Championship win of Matt Lienart and Reggie Bush of USC. He will continue to get better and build on his struggles, it is all apart of becoming a top quarterback and he is well on his way in my opinion.
Tomorrow is the official last day of the NBA regular season, I can't wait for the playoff match-ups to come out so I can make my picks!
Love for the Virginia Tech Hokies! We are Virginia Tech! Hokie Nation Unite!
Monday, April 16, 2007
Shocking day...
Duncan claimed that he only said three words to Crawford all game, that was "I was fouled." Shortly after Duncan received his first technical foul. Late in the third quarter Duncan was on the bench and from what it looked liked, Duncan was laughing and Crawford walks by and then Duncan claims he said "Do you want to fight?" and then ejects Duncan from the game.
Tell me this, since when do you get ejected from the game from laughing on the bench? Okay, I'm not denying that Duncan might have been talking with teammates about the situation, but I thought a referee could only eject a player if they made comments directly to the ref. I guess not, because my man Duncan getting a breather on the bench gets tossed for laughing. Those old refs need to pay more attention to what is going on on the court, then attacking a player on the bench who wasn't talking to you. Maybe I missed something else that happened, but from what I saw an ejection was uncalled for especially in the heat of an intense game such as the Spurs and Mavs.
The Mavs luckily pulled out the win to solidify their mark for the playoffs. The Spurs will now be the 3 seed in the West behind Phoenix and Dallas.
Also the Lakers finally locked up their spot in the playoffs last night thanks to another impressive scoring output by Kobe Bryant. Kobe once again joins Wilt Chamberlain as the only two players to have 10 games with 50 or more points in a season. Should Kobe be the MVP this year? I think we all know he is the most valuable player to their team and with two consecutive seasons with 31 plus points per game, I think he deserves a lot of consideration.
Now to the story of the Day all across the Nation. Today in Blacksburg, Virginia at the college of Virginia Tech, a devastating shooting took place shocking the campus, state and nation. With what is being said as the deadliest shooting in US history, it is just surreal and shocking. Words can't even express how sad this event is and has become.
I just want to send my love, support and prayers to all those who were affected and who have suffered from this event. I know I am in a daze and have been all day at how shocking this event has become...
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Historic Day

The topic of the day in the sports world is none other than Jackie Robinson. Today marks the 60 yea anniversary of when Jackie broke the color barrier and played in the MLB.
There was controversy all week long about whether wearing the number 42 to honor Jackie was a good thing or if only certain people should wear the number. As you can see to the left are Seattle Mariners players wearing the number in support, recognition and honor of Robinson.
I don't see what all the fuss was about. If a player wanted to show his support, go right ahead. It doesn't matter who says what, it is your own personal choice and it shows respect. Who cares if every player wore the number. It is a historic event that changed the face of Major League Baseball forever.
Here is a little history story that some of you might not know about. Robinson wasn't originally planning on joining the MLB from the Negro Leagues. He was a young star in the Negro Leagues, but wasn't interested in jumping to the all white league. The original plan was for the Negro Leagues best pitcher to make the jump to break the color barrier. He wanted a load of money and caused problems for teams to want to pick him up. So that is when Jackie came into the picture and teams were amazed by his raw talent at such a young age, they went heavily after him. I think most of you know the story from there, joined the Brooklyn Dodgers and the rest is history.
So overall, this is a day or respect and sportsmanship, (even the NBAs Jerry Stackhouse wrote Jackie Robinsion on his shoes for todays game) so honor the man the way you think he should be honored.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
It's playoff time!... almost
Remember that team that everyone picked as a possible team to represent the East in the Finals? Not Detroit, Miami, or Cleveland, but Chicago. They are currently the 2 seed and fighting with Cleveland for that right. They struggled early in the season, but have come on strong down the important back stretch of the season and are looking sharp to make a run in the playoffs. They also hold the best home record of any team in the Eastern Conference, so watch out for the "baby" bulls in this years postseason.
The hot team in the West in my opinion would have to be the San Antonio Spurs. They have got their players healthy and are playing like the Spurs of old and are giving the Suns worries for the 2 seed in the West. I don't think they will be the 2 seed, but whatever seed they are, I don't think any team will want to face them, even the Dallas Mavericks. I think we all know what the Spurs can do wants Playoff time comes around. Especially with a three time Finals Champ and MVP in forward Tim Duncan.
On the other hand, MVP candidate Kobe Bryant's Lakers are now at 40-40 and holding on to the 7 seed by only a half of a game over city mate LA Clippers and the surprise team Golden State Warriors. They have currently lost four straight games and if they didn't make the playoffs, Kobe could pretty much kiss another MVP chance goodbye after another good scoring season and scoring title.
Just announced yesterday, Georgetown Star Jeff Green and Roy Hibbert will enter their names into this years NBA draft. But, they won't sign agents until after the deadline so they will still have NCAA eligibility to return if they wanted to next season. Personally, I think Green is ready for the NBA, he has got some talent. Hibbert could probably return for his Senior season to polish his stills because they are plenty of forwards and big men in this year's draft already that will probably shut down his possibilities of being drafted by a team that would use him. I wish the both of them the best of luck and congrats on their impressive run taking Georgetown to the Final Four.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
UNC in '08!
After loosing just three seniors this season, UNC looks to be poised to make an even deeper run in the NCAA Tournament next season after a "I don't even want to talk about it" finish. Even my main man Dick Vitale has once again picked the Tar Heels as the preseason #1 for next year and you know that makes me excited. I see Brandon Wright deciding to return as the team will make a vow to earn that National Championship in 2008!
The baseball season is now in its second week and one star has started off hot making a statement. New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez has started off the season with 6 home runs and 15 RBIs in the first seven games. Talk about seeing the ball and feeling it early on, this guy is proving that he is still one of the best hitters in the game.
After a disappointing end to last season and questions of whether Joe Torre and A-Rod would return to the Yankees this season, A-Rod is making an immediate statement to the Yankee fans who have been frustrated with A-Rods up and down play most of last season, particularly in the infield.
A-Rod looks to be trying to jump start the Yankees so they have a good start and can make a run towards that championship trophy they have been without now for seven seasons, even with the amount of talent that they have had and have currently. A-Rod, who was the AL MVP two seasons ago, is obviously the early MVP favorite, even though we are only seven games into the season.
The best news coming out of the National League is the Atlanta Braves, who are off to an outstanding start of 6-1 and have looked sharp on both sides of the field. Their bullpen is doing well as are the starters. After a disappointing season last year, I am looking for the Braves to stay healthy and sharp and make a run at earning the division title again after their 15 consecutive season of winning the division was snapped by the New York Mets last season.
The 2007 NFL schedules were released today. Check out your teams schedule to see how easy or tough it is going to be.
One love.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Pacman banned for the season
No, not the game Pacman, but Tennessee Titian's Corner back Adam "Pacman" Jones. The NFL's new commissioner announced today that Jones will have to sit out this entire season as punishment for his actions last season. I have no objection to this decision, for all that he has done and been through, it is well deserved.
Texas Player of the Year Kevin Durant announced today that he will enter the NBA draft. Not a surprise to anyone I would think, the projected 1st or 2nd pick overall in the upcoming draft has many NBA teams excited.
After a stellar Freshman season, Durant couldn't pass up the opportunities he has awaiting him and his bright NBA future that lies just ahead of him. He has the Height and definitely has the skills, once he gains some muscle to his frame, he was be an instant star.
Along with Durant, the other projected 1 or 2 pick in the draft, Ohio States Greg Oden has yet to declare as many expect him to. Durant and Oden headline a very deep draft this summer that could change the face of the NBA for years and years to come.
Also declaring for the draft today was Kansas sophomore forward Julian Wright. Many felt he would stay and fellow teammate Brandon Rush could leave, but Wright jumped ahead of Rush and entered himself into the draft.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Crunch Time
In NHL news, the playoff season is ready to kick off this week. I'm going to pick the Anaheim Ducks (who are no longer the Mighty Ducks, just Ducks) to win the West and face the New Jersey Devils to win the East to square off for Lord Stanley's Cup.
The big news out of the NHL is that young superstar Sidney Crosby became the youngest player ever to lead the league in scoring for the season. Yes is said Ever, that includes the great Wayne Gretzky. Coming into the league at the ripe age of 18, Crosby has earned many Gretzky comparisons and even broken a few of his and other records already. Will he "be the next" or "the better" Wayne Gretzky, or will he level off in a few years? Only time will tell and so far, I would say the comparisons are fair, as he has lived up to his much anticipated expectations so far.
This Breaking News has just headlined the News: Reggie Miller tells the World that Michael Jordan was and is his favorite player of all time. Not only his favorite, but a far superior superstar than he was. Haha, only a few people will understand what that is about, I just had to do it, I love picking on my man.
We are now in the full swing of April and before we know it, the NFL draft will be upon us. Then after that it will be Training Camp and then before we know it, this years season will be upon us. Whoa whoa whoa, I don't want to look that far ahead of myself, I'm just focused on the summer.
But anyways, the big talk so far for this years draft is of course the first round picks, especially the first 5 picks. This years first pick goes to the Oakland Raaaaaaaiders and the prejected choice they will make is QB Jamarcus Russell out of LSU. The other top QB in the draft is Notre Dame's Brady Quinn. My team, the San Francisco 49ers have the 11th pick and are looking to improve their already great off season moves. I'm thinking they will take a defensive lineman or maybe a Wide Receiver. I can't wait, it is always an interesting weekend.
Guess who's baccckkk? Dwayne Wade made an appearance last night for the Miami Heat in a losing effort in overtime to the Charlotte Bobcats. Here's what I think about Wade's situation...
For those of you who don't know, Wade badly dislocated his Shoulder about two months ago and decided against immediate surgery because it would force him to miss the rest of the season. So he went through physical theory to make it stronger, now he returned for the first time in 20 some games last night. Since his injury, the Miami Heat have taken over the Southeast division lead (Thanks to the cursed Washington Wizards) and clinched a playoff birth. D-Wade is now playing and preparing for the playoffs. Who remembers last year what Wade did in the playoffs? He has no chance at all of doing that this year with an injured shoulder. Don't expect to see the Final MVP Wade the whole playoffs, because his game is badly going to take a change due to the injury because the first time he drives off balance and falls down, that's the end of his playing time for a while.
Also, I know it is down the road a little ways, but is he planning on playing in this Summers US Basketball championships preparing for the Olympics? Because if he re injures his shoulder, he will probably have to miss that tournament and that will hurt USA basketball. But I'm pretty sure he is thinking defend our NBA championship, which isn't going to happen at all. Wade can play, but if he can't play is normal style of physical driving play, then I think he could hurt Miami's chances in the Playoffs. He is a smart young guy though, so I am sure he has had some reassuring advice.
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Happy Easter!
What a weekend it was in Augusta Georgia, at The Master's tournament. The winning score tied a course record. No not for the best score, but tied for the highest score for the winner. The winner finished with a 289 total score, which equals 1 over par (+1). Shocking I know, and who was the winner? Not a familiar face, but Zach Johnson. He only had 1 previous career victory on the PGA Tour, now he has the most coveted Green Jacket in his possession. Tiger Woods had a tough tournament overall, finishing 3 over par (+3) and tied for second place. Defending Champ, Phil Michealson finished at 11 over par (+11).
Some history was made last night in the NBA, rare history at that. New Jersey Nets Stars Jason Kidd and Vince Carter each recorded Triple Doubles in the same game in an overtime win over the Washington Wizards. It is the first teammates to each have Triple Doubles in the same game since... who? It last happened in 1989, some of you might be able to figure it out, or maybe not.
When I saw this headline, I was completely shocked. Two teammates recording Triple Doubles in the same game, almost hasn't happened in my life time, it is very rare and you have to be really talented to earn this feat. Really, really amazing. Yeah Jason Kidd gets about 10 triple doubles a season, (he has achieved the most triple doubles this year than any other in his career) but it was only Vince Carter's 3rd Career and it was impressive, 46 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists. I give both of those players congrats and even though their team has been disappointing this season, both of them are All-Stars and very hard workers. Personally I still think VC is one of the most exciting players to watch when he is full health. After this season he will be a free agent and I can't wait to see which teams pursue this talented veteran.
Oh, you must be wondering about the answer to the earlier question about teammates who achieved Triple Doubles in one game. In 1989, it would be none other than Chicago Bulls teammates and Stars Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen. What's that, 18 years... wow it really is shocking and impressive at the same time. Congrats to J-Kidd and VC on the rare feat and good luck the rest of the season.
I want to give a shout out to my man John. He always gives an interesting argument and always seems to go strong and plead his case. He was my inspiration for this experiment, so thanks John for keeping me going and all the support. Also to all the other readers and supporters, I want to thank you for the support, it can only help me get better and hope for a bright future.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
It's all good
Tough news to come out of a team that had been strong all season, especially Arenas who called this season "The Takeover" and he did that early on establishing himself as and elite MVP candidate much of the beginning of the season. Now with both stars lost, how will Washington fair in the Playoffs? I say not well, most likely suffering a first round defeat.
Florida Gators Head Basketball Coach Billy Donovan has stated that he will remain at Florida to seek a 3rd Championship. This may take a few years now that Florida's main 4 have decided to hit the NBA market. Bold decision for Donovan to remain loyal to the university and continue to have success in his career.
Daisuke Matsuzaka. Who is that you might ask? How about Dice-K, heard that name before? That's right, Boston Red Sox Rookie Pitcher from Japan. He made his Major League debut today in Kansas City and what a performance it was. He lived up to his potential and had 10 strikeouts (K) and 1 earned run in 7 innings pitched to earn his first career MLB victory.
Boston Fans have got to be excited after today's performance, especially since he was the most talked about topic in this years off-season. I know I am excited, I have him on my Fantasy Baseball team, which is horrible by the way, but that is a different story. Here is my prediction for how he fairs this season. I think he will earn between 15-18 Wins with a 2.90-3.25 ERA (earned run average). The kid is still young and could be very important to Boston's success this year and in the future.
The Master's Golf Tournament got underway today and boy was it an interesting and tricky day. The leaders score after the first day is 3 under par (-3). That shows that the course is playing very tricky, especially with fast and firm greens and the cold weather. Tiger Woods is at 1 over par (+1) after a relatively quite day. I'm looking forward to the weekend and an exciting conclusion to this great Golf Tournament.
Everyone have a great Easter Holiday weekend and make sure you check out the Master's.
You stay classy.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Response to Comment left on today's post
Ok the Gators came back and repeated. They play the right way? What does that mean? Here is what I think. Key components to a championship team. PG- quick, smart, can penetrate, dish, shoot the three, contain on defense; check Taurean Green. SG- can shoot the 3 ball all day and contain on defense; check Lee Humprey. SF- long, quick, can penetrate, shoot, and play great defense; check Corie Brewer (best player on the team). PF/C- Tall, big, can rebound, block shots, score down low, face the basket; check Florida had 3 decent big men, Al Horford, "Joke"im Noah, and Richards.
Now if you think about past championship teams, they have all had these components, but better talent I guarantee you that. They had all the right components, not one or two talents that can carry the team, but all the right components to complete a team.
Now when you talk about little heart in Greg Oden, that is when you blew my mind. Greg Oden was flat out the most dominant player on the court last night. He played 38 minutes, 20+ points, 10+ rebounds, 4 blocks a couple assists. What more can he do? He doesn't run the show, he called for the ball when he wanted it and he scored or got fouled. Heart? He's the center, he's a 18 year old freshman and he was the MOP of the game period. He did not hurt his team, he kept them in the game. His teammates played horrible defense, reaching and slapping all night. They showed very poor defense, getting blown past most of the game. It was like sure go ahead, we're just going to try to out score you, which they didn't at all. They made no 3 pointers until late in the second half, which is what they have been surviving on most of the tournament. Tell me his teammates played better than he did? Conley could be the only argument, except he didn't make his much needed 3s.
Oden is a completely different player than Kevin Durant and Brewer. You can't make those comparisons at all. At All! Oden is a 7 foot center, who is a straight load to guard down low. That is his persona, a CENTER! Kevin Durant is a different story, as is Brewer. Durant and Brewer weigh about 200 pounds a piece and are 6'9", that is a huge difference. They play Small forward, and possible power forward if needed. You can't compare two completely different player types, you can't.
And when you hate on Tim Duncan, that just burns my flame even more. If he has that persona as you say, then it sounds like Oden could be a pretty successful player in the NBA. Seeing as Duncan is a two time repeat MVP, and a 3 time NBA champ and MVP. So that sounds pretty good to me, I have no problem with that persona.
Now, in the NBA who will be more successful, Corie Brewer or Greg Oden? If you think Brewer, then you need to take your Reggie Miller self somewhere else. Oden will impact the league right away as Brewer will be just like any other rookie who takes a few years to ease into the league. Oden WILL play down low, where he is a monster, and cause havoc right away. Brewer will be lucky to get 10 minutes a game and won't do anything. And if you mention Horford or Noah, then I will laugh aloud. They will be decent forwards, but not Great. I would take Brandon Wright before I took either of them.
The only argument you can have is Durant. Because he is a talent, freak of nature, once he gains 20 pounds will dominate the league, he is the next superstar of the league, I will say that.
So I don't know if this has proved anything, but I know it has and downplaying Oden was a joke. Because that was probably his best game of the season hand's down. And if you weren't impressed, I know why. You are a guard fan and I'm a Big man fan. Heart? Assertiveness? He DID his job, called for the ball and finished. How is that not heart or assertiveness. If Oden had been in foul trouble, Ohio State would have gotten blown out.
Florida gets my props, Congrats, that's it. They had the right components and right maturity. That will win a championship. How is that John? I know you're still not satisfied because I'm not showing the love for Florida enough, but they get what they deserve, good for them.
Now that's some Smak for you!
Still not Impressed
That is all I have to say about it, it really doesn't interest me. Congrats Florida.
Now here are my predictions for the 2007 MLB season...
American League: East- 1. Boston 2. New York 3. Toronto 4. Tampa Bay 5. Baltimore
Central- 1. Detroit 2. Cleveland 3. Minnesota 4. Chicago 5. Kansas City
West- 1. Anaheim 2. Oakland 3. Texas 4. Seattle
National League: East- 1. New York 2. Atlanta 3. Philadelphia 4. Florida 5. Washington
Central- 1. St. Louis 2. Chicago 3. Milwaukee 4. Houston 5. Cincinnati 6. Pittsburgh
West- 1. Los Angeles 2. Arizona 3. San Diego 4. San Francisco 5. Colorado
AL Champion: Detroit Tigers
NL Champion: New York Mets
World Series Champion: Detroit Tigers
This upcoming weekend is one of my favorites of the year, sports wise. On Thursday, the first PGA Major Championship of the season gets under way in Augusta Georgia. That's right, The Master's at Augusta National. Beauty isn't a strong enough adjective to describe the course as a whole. Every time I watch it on TV, I feel like I am in heaven, no joke. Even if you think that watching Golf on TV is the most boring thing in the world, just take 5 minutes to admire the magnificent beauty of the course, it really is shocking.
The Master's Tournament headlines the top golfers in the World to play for one of the most coveted prizes in Golf, the Green Jacket. Unlike any other tournament where you get a large trophy, the Master's rewards you with the Coveted Green Jacket, which is presented to you by the previous year's winner. The past 3 years have been won by Phil Mickelson (2) and Tiger Woods. Both of these golfer's are among the best in the World and Tiger Woods always makes a good effort at Augusta, probably his favorite course to play; where he has won 4 times, including his first in 1997 at the ripe age of 21 years old. Now 10 years later, Tiger Seeks his 5th Master's Tournament win and 13th overall Major victory.
It should be a good weekend of Golf and a very Happy Easter Holiday!
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Opening Day
Let's go Braves, time to start a new Division winning streak.
Well the Madness of March is officially over and there only stands two teams left for the right to play for the National Championship. Those two teams are THE Ohio State Buckeyes and the defending champs Florida Gators.
Wait a second haven't we already had this match up in a Major College Sporting event this year? OH yeah when Florida spanked heavily favored Ohio State in the BCS Football championship. Personally I hope Ohio State gets it revenge.
It's been a great season for college basketball with many exciting games and headlines. From All-American Freshman, Kevin Durant and Greg Oden, to the unfortunate history Florida can join tomorrow. It has been an exciting season non the less and is always disappointing to see it come to an end, but it's time to look ahead to next season and get ready to do better and improve you game so you can make the game winning shot or that game tying free throw. Let's go Ohio State, my article will be more interesting if you win instead of Florida.
Now what's all this about Florida coach Billy Donovan and the vacant Kentucky Head coaching job? Here's what I think he should do. Accept the job and move on and make a statement for yourself else where. Donovan has obviously become one of the top coaches in college basketball this decade now in his 3rd final four in about 7 years. Everybody loves Kentucky and they need a little pick me up instead of a rebuilding stage and I think Donovan can provide his coaching abilities to bring Kentucky back to the glory days. And weather Florida wins or loses tomorrow night, basically his whole team is either graduating or will enter the NBA draft, at least the key players. So take your legacy and skills on over to Kentucky and get the Wildcat Faithful back to the cheering not the booing.
Here's a Hot story of the evening; the Phoenix Suns have once again handed the Dallas Mavericks a lost in impressive fashion. The Suns shot an impressive 64% from the field as a team to run away with the win against the team with the best record in the NBA, Dallas Mavericks. Four of the Suns starters scored 20 or more points as the Suns played a sharp steady pasted game to score 124 points against one of the top defensive teams in the league, the Mavs. Is this bad for Dirk and his MVP chances? We shall see, as long as the Mavs finish strong I still believe he will bring home his first MVP trophy.
My man Michael Phelps earned 7 Gold Medals and 5 world records and most likely would have earned at least another medal in his final race, but one of his teammates jumped the gate early and gave the US a disqualification for the race. But wow, how impressive is this 21 year old swimmer, the answer is really impressive. After an impressive run at the Olympics 3 years ago, Phelps is beyond ready for 2008 to roll around, when he can haul in even more hardware and record breaking performances. Keep representing the USA big man.