THE SPORTING LIFE

A LEGACY TARNISHED

2011-11-09T20:05:00.000-05:00

‘All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing’

A Painful Reflection

The outrage is far reaching. The accusations are beyond shocking on a number of fronts.

Joe Paterno, a legendary coach who for decades has stood as a symbol of leadership for all things right in collegiate athletics, will see his career come to an end because he stood by and didn't do enough.

After Paterno reported a heinous act against a child up the chain of command, Penn State officials engaged in a cover up so despicable that it may haunt the university for years to come.

The winningest coach in college football history says he will resign at the end of the season. With a huge home game looming on the Saturday schedule against No. 17 Nebraska, making that call should no longer be in Paterno's hands. The University Board of Trustees needs to call an audible and tell Paterno, even at age 84, there is a lesson to be learned here.

In 2002, Paterno made the mistake of putting the football program and friendship first. He should have immediately been concerned about a then 10-year old boy labeled by a Pennsylvania grand jury as "Boy known as Victim 6." Subsequently, it has come to light that former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky would be linked with "Boy known as Victim... 4... 5... 6... 7... 8...".

If Paterno is allowed to coach this Saturday, what should be the fate of Mike McQueary, the Nittany Lions' wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator? He was the once unnamed graduate assistant who witnessed Sandusky having anal sex with a pre-teen boy at the school's Lasch Football Building in 2002. McQueary, 28 years old at the time, 6-5, over 230 pounds, didn't rush to the young boy's defense. When he found a phone, he didn't dial 9-1-1. He dialed his dad. The next day, he told Paterno. Eight years later, McQueary testified in front of a grand jury. Eight years!

Why so long? For that answer, the moral and ethical barometer falls squarely on the shoulders of former Athletic Director Tim Curley, former Senior Vice President for Fiance and Business Gary Schultz, and current (as of this writing) President Graham Spanier. Their 'handling' of the matter was banning Sandusky from bringing children to campus. In other words, not on our campus. He was still allowed, however, to maintain an office on campus. The incident was never reported to police.

And why was Sandusky bringing kids to campus? In 1977 he founded The Second Mile organization. It started as a group foster home dedicated to assisting troubled boys. It grew into a charity that helped kids with absent or dysfunctional families.

Long before McQueary saw the unthinkable, there was trouble with children. In 1998 it was reported Sandusky was taking showers with boys from the foster home. The cases were brought to the attention of university police and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. When questioned, Sandusky admitted he had done wrong. The cases were never brought to justice.

In 1999 Sandusky retired from Penn State but held emeritus status. The alleged incidents didn't stop though.

In what should be the celebratory closing to an amazing career, Paterno has been hounded by the news media and surrounded by a student body, many of whom shout his name with unabashed support.

In speaking the other day, Paterno was correct in saying that at this time, all thoughts and prayers should be directed to the victims. They are the one's that matter and finding ways to prevent something like this from ever happening again should be examined everywhere in which young people are the focus.

When I worked in Washington, DC, I had to cover my first pedophile case. The year was 1994. I will never forget it. A six-year old Maryland boy was taken from his home while he slept at night. He was eventually dropped off and found wandering around a cemetery, naked and alone. Somehow, that six-year old kid found the courage to take the witness stand, describe the horrible things done to him and point out his attacker. By the time he was done testifying, there wasn't a dry eye in the jury, which was made up of grandfathers and grandmothers.

I often wonder how that boy is doing as a young man today.

I hope as fans cheer on Penn State Saturday, they take the time to wonder how Victim... 4... 5... 6... 7... 8 and so forth are doing.

THE MASTERS, THE APPLE OF MY EYE

2011-04-07T10:52:00.001-04:00

Heaven on Earth

It's day one of the famed Masters tournament and I'm up early - waiting!

Augusta National is America's version of royalty and we can't seem to get enough - only in my humble opinion - we aren't getting enough. In this respect, the Masters has a lot in common with another pet peeve, Apple. The makers of things we crave - iPhone, iPad, iMac, iPod. Marketing geniuses, Apple reigns supreme in creating buzz about its products. Make it exclusive, give 'em a taste, create an industry.

I'm watching the Golf Channel, which is reporting live from Augusta, but I'm left with lots of chatter and shots from the putting green. Hey, I'm starving so anything is satisfying. I had to wait until 10:45 AM to start seeing live coverage, not on television, but on the web! The TV coverage doesn't begin until 3 PM Eastern! If you have DirecTV, you then have the opportunity to watch the action unfold on several screens, covering multiple holes. Sure would have been nice, however, to see Retief Goosen eagle No.1 live!

The demand is certainly there so why make the lovers of this event wait? Sure, I could have leveraged my assets and bought a ticket, get a hotel room and flown to be there in person, but I figure if it's already a packed house, why not feed the masses? Having covered a Ryder Cup & U.S. Open at Oakland Hills Country Club, I personally prefer watching golf on television more. I get more out if that way. I can follow the action better, not be restricted to a pairing or two, and the bathroom is reserved for my use. Plus, when I hear "YOU DA MAN" shouted, chances are it's my wife. Okay, granted, that's an exaggeration.

Ian Poulter tweeting from Augusta

In this technological, social networking age, it's nice to get Twitter updates from the likes of Ian Poulter. He just tweeted: "In my Masters Thursday outfit just on my way. buzzing" (10:11 AM). Here's the accompanying picture he posted.

I suppose I should be thankful for what I get because it wasn't that long ago that Augusta National eased coverage restrictions. We didn't used to see live action from the front nine at all. Still, forgive me for wanting wall-to-wall coverage. There's just something about Augusta that makes a grown man salivate. My golfing friends admit we'd pay a grand just to play a round there. When you consider that my wife would gladly fork over the same amount to get a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes, I don't feel bad at all.

Oh, well, let me go check the leaderboard online.

TOOTHLESS TIGER

2011-03-31T17:45:00.001-04:00

BUILDING A BETTER TIGER?

Over 400 days and counting.

Tiger Woods' winless streak has become a black hole of futility, sucking in more greatness at each tour stop. Instead of laser accurate iron shots into the green, we're now left with "average". For all the body of work we've witnessed of this golfing legend, "average" was a label that didn't fit. It's now become part of his tournament experience.

RICKIE "ORANGE CRUSH" FOWLER

Even at courses he's dominated in the past, Woods now struggles for consistency. You'd like to believe him when he extols that his game is coming around. But, the leaderboard don't lie. Much like Austin Powers, Tiger has lost his "Mojo". He desperately needs a win to get his swagger back and no better stage to accomplish that than at Augusta National next week.

I know golf has somewhat lost it's luster when my wife pauses at the television and asks, "Oh, my, who is that wearing an orange outfit?" For the record, it's Rickie Fowler, one of golf's young, free swinging talents.

The PGA doesn't like to admit it, but it's a better golfing world when Tiger Woods is on top of his game. Tiger in the hunt on a Sunday is TV ratings gold. Parity is a wonderful thing and there are a number of young talented golfers making an ascent, but a rotating champion structure week after week isn't a ratings bonanza. Baddeley, Laird, Barnes, Mahan, Johnson - all nice pieces - just not show stopping material yet. The NBA needs the Lakers & Celtics, MLB the Yankees & Red Sox, the NFL the Patriots & Colts. Teams with marquee talent or storied pasts.

Though he was not in contention during the final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Woods played host to the largest gallery. Tiger at your event translates into bigger profits. Quietly, a number of Tour professionals are rooting for Tiger to exorcise his demons. For the good of the sport, he needs to start winning again. Lately, though, it looks like Tiger needs to re-fit his bag with game improvement clubs. And he's experimenting. NBC golf analyst Johnnie Miller let the cat out of the bag at Bay Hill by revealing Woods was playing with new irons. Add that to the lack of confidence he's exhibited in his Scotty Cameron putter, in rotation, out of rotation.

Who is this guy?

Tiger's swing wasn't broke once before when he tinkered with it and came out shooting dart golf. He was younger then, seemingly untouchable, his world intact. He's in his 30's now, totally exposed, a divorced father of two, and much like Humpty Dumpty, trying to put the pieces back together again.

It's as if Woods is trying to remake himself. Determined to prove to the world he's a born again golfer. What he has to come to terms with is, what's done is done. He's absorbed all the punches and shots naysayers have thrown his way. Yes, it was embarrassing and incredibly stupid. It's now time to stand up and be counted again. If the golfing public loved Woods before, they'll love him again, perhaps even more so because he's proven to be human.

You can't be all things to all people. Granted on numerous levels, Tiger has to evolve, but he should also look in the rear view mirror to remember what made him a dominating force on the golf course. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Go out and play with all the freedom and confidence
of a champion many times over.

SEARCHING FOR GREATNESS AGAIN

TWO AND A HALF MEN...

2011-03-10T20:29:00.000-05:00

READY FOR PRIMETIME

"Men men men men manly men..."

Yes, CBS can salvage Two And A Half Men from the scrap heap by casting LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in the title roles.

Figuring out the half should be child's play. In the muck of a five-game losing streak, unable to close out games against any team with a winning record, the Show horse decided to make it known he's not happy with the number of looks he's getting.

"I need to get it where big guys get it," Bosh said after losing to Portland 105-96. "I'm effective in the low-post area. That's where I need to start getting the ball."

Upon hearing that post-game assessment, King James offered his own at practice the next day, essentially saying if Bosh wants the ball, all he has to do is "ask for it."

Help Me, Help You

And then there's the curious case of Head Coach Erik Spoelstra, who was given a vote of confidence from Team President Pat Riley. So many questions and apparently few solutions. "We don't have a lot of answers on how to get over the hump." This isn't Jeopardy. Those words were spoken by Spoelstra after a recent loss.

Not one, Not two, Not Three...

Somebody better figure out something quick or this situation could implode. In 1974, Riley wrote a book called: The Winner Within: A Life Plan for Team Players. It may be time to pass out a few copies.

It's also time for Spoelstra to put on the big boy pants and assert some authority. I'll give James and Wade some credit. So far, they haven't gone Egypt on Spoelstra and demanded a regime change. But the coach needs to start implementing a plan and in my humble opinion the ball should be in Wade's hands. He needs to be the main distributor. I'd like to see James work off the ball, running his defender through picks and slashing to the basket with the vigor exhibited by Reggie Miller or Rip Hamilton. When Wade needs a breather, James can assume his role.

Due to salary cap room, there's no question the Heat bench is thin on wins, but it's certainly serviceable. Mike Miller still seems to be bothered by his thumb injury and he's a far cry (couldn't resist) from Bulls' sharpshooter Kyle Korver. The Heat do have James Jones, who just happened to win the 3-pt shootout at the All-Star Game, and Mario Chalmers who has exhibited some moxie. Their minutes, however are sporadic and their contributions seem to be more of an afterthought. And please, please, explain the Mike Bibby signing to me. He had a nice career but can't guard the league's elite point guards and really isn't effective running an offense anymore.

At the end of tight games, it's become the stand around and watch the King James show. Even James acknowledged that he had to stop letting his teammates down. What has to happen is trust. Part of what made Michael Jordan great was he had confidence in John Paxson, Craig Hodges or Steve Kerr knocking down big shots. The Heat need to develop the same mentality.

During certain match ups let Bosh put his money where his mouth is. Isolate him on the blocks and dump the ball down. If help arrives, there should be enough perimeter shooters available for Bosh to kick it back out or maybe a drop off to a cutting James or Wade! Games can be won at the free throw line and not the three point line as referees have been known to call fouls in the paint.

So many questions and actually some solutions. Apply some and you too can be a winner.

CAN THE LAKERS MAKE ONE OF THESE MOVES???

2011-02-22T16:50:00.002-05:00

WOULD YOU MOVE BYNUM?

For the team with the highest payroll in the NBA, spending money to capture another title shouldn't be a problem. There are several intriguing options for the Lakers to take a look at as the February 24th trade deadline looms.

Hamilton Still Has Game Left

The most attractive scoring option is available because shooting guard Richard Hamilton is in the dog house with Detroit Head Coach John Kuester. Plus, the organization would like nothing better than to get rid of the 25 million dollars owed the 6-7 veteran guard over next two years. With a new owner about to take over, General Manager Joe Dumars is in a save his job situation. The beauty of Hamilton to the Lakers is that he is a consistent scorer and since he hasn't played much this season, there should be a lot of life in those 33-year old legs. Hamilton is also a cagey veteran with an NBA title under his belt.

There's no secret the Lakers have been extremely disappointed with the production - or lack there of - by reserve point guard Steve Blake (37 percent FG shooting, 4.3 ppg, 2.1 asp). He'll be collecting 4 million a year through the 2013-2014 season - ouch! Perhaps he can be moved for Hamilton's salary or Luke Walton (due nearly 12 million over the next two years) offers a reduction as well to the Pistons.

Center Andrew Bynum was the object of conversation when the longshot possibility of trading for Carmelo Anthony was being tossed around Hollywood like a bad script. There are some in the Laker organization who are reluctant to move the 7-foot, youthful center and that's understandable considering the Lakers can't win a championship without his presence in the middle. However, Bynum reminds you of that Ferris wheel at a small county fair in town for just a couple of weeks. Yeah, it's inviting, but you wonder why the hairs on the back of your neck rise when you think about riding it. You know deep down it's not going to hold up at full capacity.

Gasol x2?

Fortunately for the Lakers, there might be a family solution for the taking. Why not trade one seven-footer for another? The beauty of the idea is that Los Angeles has robbed this team once before so maybe lightning can strike twice. Bynum is locked up for the next two years while Marc Gasol (11.8 ppg/7 rbp) of the Memphis Grizzlies has an expiring contract. Yes, Pau would welcome his baby brother with open arms. The younger Gasol is a more conventional type center which would give the Lakers a nice option in a half court setup.

Battier Nice Complimentary Piece

If the Lakers want to get a little more athletic, they could consider the do-everything-without-question attitude of Houston's Shane Battier who becomes an unrestricted free-agent next season. A solid defender, Battier understands the game and can keep defenses honest by knocking down three pointers when needed. Think Robert Horry back in a Laker uniform.

Get Me Out Of Sacramento?

Someone to consider is 6-9 Sacramento forward Carl Landry. His play of late has been inconsistent and his minutes are being reduced as a result, but when motivated, Landry (11.9 ppg/4.8 rbg) can be a beast. He's a career 54 percent shooter from the floor. His contract too comes off the books at the end of this season.

So the Lakers have options and moving Bynum might be a necessity, especially if Marc Gasol is in the picture. It might also be necessary to throw in another piece or some draft picks. But if those pieces involve Blake or Walton, no one in LA is going to shed a tear.

THE SOUNDS OF SILENCE ... JERRY SLOAN STEPS DOWN

2011-02-10T18:29:00.000-05:00

Enough Is Enough

"Hello darkness my old friend, I've to come talk with you again."

Jerry Sloan is old enough to appreciate the finer things in life. For a man who never backed down from a basketball court challenge in his life, not from Rick Barry, not from Pete Maravich, not from Oscar Robertson, Sloan was smart enough to recognize when it's time to leave with your dignity in tact. After 23 years of coaching and more than 1,200 wins, Sloan walked away from the Utah Jazz, escaping an avalanche of discontent.

A Hall of Famer, it's ironic that Sloan reached his boiling point while coaching against the Chicago Bulls, the team he earned his hard-nosed reputation with as a backcourt bookend alongside Norm Van Lier. At halftime of Wednesday's game, Sloan and point guard Deron Williams' rocky relationship reportedly hit the point of no return. Sloan, upset that Williams ran a different play than he called for from the bench, blew a gasket in the lockeroom. The old Jerry Sloan would have probably opted to settle the matter with his fists, but this is the kinder, gentler NBA. The Williams-Sloan relationship has been percolating for quite some time.

"Fools" said I, "You do not know, Silence like a cancer grows.

Hear my words that I might teach you, Take my arms that I might reach you."
But my words like silent raindrops fell,

And echoed, In the wells of silence ."

There's no question Williams has got serious game. He's certainly in the discussion of the top five point guards in the league, but has he earned the status to force a legend like Sloan out the door, three days after Sloan signed a one-year extension? Williams becomes a free agent in 2012 and sources indicated he was leaning toward bolting if Sloan wasn't gone. Seems the Jazz players banded together and decided Sloan didn't know who they were anymore, the familiar chant of "lost the team" being thrown around better than his "flex" offense was being run.

Despite losing some key components from last year's squad, the Jazz, as of this writing, are 31-23 and second in the Northwest. When Sloan realized ownership was listening more to the inmates than the warden, it was time to take his last charging call.

Replacing Sloan, for at least the remainder of the season, will be assistant Tyrone Corbin. I hope Williams is pleased because if memory serves me right, Sloan achieved a measure of success with a little point guard named John Stockton. Oh, yeah, he's in the Hall of Fame too.

"And the people bowed and prayed, To the neon god they made.

And the sign flashed out its warning, In the words that it was forming.

And the sign said, "The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls

And tenement halls." and whisper'd in the sounds of silence."

AREA CODE 650 ... HARBAUGH NOW OR NEVER

2010-11-27T20:32:00.001-05:00

IS IT TIME TO MAKE THE CALL?

The University of Michigan football program was never this suspect under Lloyd Carr and yet, he was forced out the door like an aging sheriff who could no longer protect the townsfolk.

At least under Carr the Wolverines were competitive. This current product on the field every Saturday for the maize and blue is at times head shaking. Let's face facts, this isn't Purdue we're talking about where every blue moon you get good. This is about a storied program that used to be part of the conversation when talk centered about a national title run.

SHOULD HE BE WORRIED?

This is not column calling for Rich Rodriguez's dismissal. It's more about being in place when opportunity knocks and whether someone gets up to answer the door. In order to be fair, a coach should get a full recruiting class to prove his value, to implement his style of play, with his kind of players. Rodriguez has been at the helm for three years. His record is unimpressive at 15-21. He's 0-3 against both Ohio State and Michigan State -- huge measuring sticks for survival. Earle Bruce lost his job at Ohio State because he couldn't win that last game of the regular season. Jim Tressel has beat Michigan in seven straight games and is 9-1 all-time.

The Wolverines were 7-5 this season, but they came up short in big games to Iowa, MSU, Wisconsin and Ohio State, all ranked teams within the conference. The offense has at times been exciting for Michigan, but the defense, once built upon immense pride, now has more holes than Swiss cheese. And then there is the embarrassment of NCAA investigations and probation -- not the way Michigan does business.

So what's a program to do? Stay the course, hoping as Rich Rod said after today's 37-7 loss that "I think the worst is behind us. I know it is."

Or is it time to roll the dice and look elsewhere? Is it time to get a Michigan man in Schembechler Hall? If that's the case, former Wolverine quarterback Jim Harbaugh should be on speed dial. After blanking Oregon State 38-0, the coach of the Stanford Cardinal guided his team to an 11-1 regular season record. Caution though. Remember I mentioned a coach often needs a full four years. In his first three seasons at Stanford, Harbaugh was 4-2, 5-7 and 8-5. But, it's Harbaugh's resume that also merits attention. His brother has achieved success coaching the Baltimore Ravens and Jim was a starter for several teams in the NFL. Harbaugh is a solid recruiter and his players seem willing to run through a wall for him. If the call isn't made this year, he might not be available and even now, it could be a long shot because he is a hot commodity.

I'm just happy I don't have to make the decision or make the call. I went to Purdue and last I checked, this isn't a blue moon year.

A FRONT ROW SEAT

2010-10-26T18:07:00.000-04:00

LORD OF THE RINGS

The curtain rises tonight for the debut of The Three Basketeers!

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, together for the first time, ready to conquer the world for "Not one, not two, not three, not four, not five... "

Whew... not even Richard Pryor could have pulled that joke off. Ease off the hype throttle a little big fella. The fact that James and Bosh have to date won "Not one, not one, not one..." championship, makes me hold off on getting the popcorn ready. They're used to the heat in Miami, but fans have been drinking SPF 70 ever since James and Bosh decided to join Wade.

Tonight's game at Boston needs no introduction. The Celtics have added the Big Leprechaun in Shaquille O'Neal to fill a void in the middle that clearly cost them a championship last season. That's the same O'Neal who won three championships with Kobe Bryant, one with Wade and zero with James. The Celtics are long in the tooth with Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen, but they are all battle tested veterans who've tasted the ultimate prize as a unit. You don't have to convince James that experience matters down the stretch.

One of 82. That's really all tonight's matchup means. The outcome won't give either squad an edge over the other for later matchups. Only a number of games will reveal if the Heat's bench is adequate enough to give The Three Basketeers a lift. Injuries have to be avoided for both the Heat and Celtics. The same can be said for other contenders. The Lakers can't lose Paul Gasol and the Bulls can't have Carlos Boozer or Joakim Noah sidelined for any measurable length of time.

It should be an interesting race to the finish and if the Heat manage to pull of a championship, they will have done so before packed arenas and the best even the lowly Timberwolves can muster night in and night out.

So I have a front row seat for tonight. The beer is perfectly chilled, not six dollars a bottle and there is no line to the men's room. Bring on the 2010-11 season!

IS IT TIME TO SHUT IT DOWN? A TIGER WOODS INTERVENTION

2010-07-18T11:53:00.000-04:00

Woods at British Open

Muhammad Ali was toward the end of his career when you just couldn't stomach to look anymore. He should have shocked the world and walked away after the 1975 'Thrilla in Manila.'

For Tiger Woods, there has been no Joe Frazier. Sergio gave it a run and Phil continues to chase. Unfortunately, Woods has proven to be his own Trojan Horse, imploding from within. No one was allowed into his private sanctuary until he C4'd his own fortress, leaving a gaping wound for the entire world to see.

2010 has been brutal. Seven tournaments. Zero wins. His wife and children moved out, sponsors moved out, his swing coach exited and Woods' golf game is better on EA Sports.

Prior to the start of the British Open at St. Andrews, a course Tiger has tamed twice (2000 & 2005), he switched from long-time ally Scotty Cameron to a Nike Method putter. His reason? The greens were too slow. On the course for the final round, guess who was back in the bag. So now we have a Tiger Woods that is second guessing himself. Who is this guy that is not remotely in contention on red shirt Sundays?

I made a $30 bet with a co-worker before the British Open. Not to win the Open per se, but for Tiger to win any tournament for the rest of the year. I was dancing like Mr. Bojangles when he accepted the conditions. Tiger not win at all in 2010! Get real! I jumped all over that wager. I'm a little less confident now, but there's still plenty of time.

However, Tiger Woods and Eldrick Woods need to have a sit down. When you've lived on top of the mountain known as Tiger for so long, Eldrick tends to get lost. Eldrick can't get a word in. Magic Johnson experienced the same thing during the heyday of Showtime in L-A. He said Magic was a whole different person than Ervin.

Happy Days

For Woods, I can relate to one of the most difficult times in his life. I'm not talking about right now-- I'm talking about losing his father Earl. When you're that close, when you lose the one person in the world whose opinion carried a great deal of weight, you wake up a little broken. Tiger went on to handle the golf part easily enough. It was the one place he could find peace, the one place he could continue to make his dad proud. It was the off the course stuff that Tiger handled badly. For that, perhaps he needed to be more like Eldrick, the man few of us know. With Earl gone, there was no one to keep Tiger grounded, no one to remind him how hard the journey to now was, and what it still could become.

To some degree, I imagine Tiger thought marriage would help keep him grounded, but by then, it was probably too late. As Woods admitted himself, it seemed as if Tiger could do whatever he wanted without there being any consequences. It's a hard to lesson to learn that we all put our pants on the same way. Some pockets are lined with more stuff, but the process is the same.

So how can Woods recover? Clearly there is a ton of stuff on his mind. Reports and details of his marital status, true or fabricated, make the headlines. He has to sit and at least listen to questions never before asked by the media at golf tournaments, knowing full well the deck is stacked against him. How he answers is scrutinized just as much as club selection on a tricky hole. Woods has to get his personal life in order and decide what kind of man he's going to be. He should know all too well the importance of being a father. Doing it right can enrich one's life beyond words. It makes all the superficial stuff seem ridiculous and mundane.

In other sports, when a great player is in a slump, they manage to work it out. A shooter in basketball is told to keep shooting, it will come back. A baseball player in a hitting slump has to keep swinging, take extra batting practice in fact, and maybe even take a day off to analyze.

For Tiger, with no swing coach, he's trying to figure it out all by himself. Eventually, he'll get there. His DNA will see to that. It's just painful to watch at times now. On some level, maybe he feels this is part of his penance, to painfully fail before the masses.

When the pain finally subsides, Tiger will be back. I'll bet you $30 on that.

YOU CALL THIS A SUMMIT!

2010-06-29T14:44:00.002-04:00

James

It was like Breaking News of a summit! I felt compelled to at least listen. Was there some development between Israel and the PLO? Wait a minute. I wasn't watching CNN, FOX or MSNBC.

Wade

Bosh

It was Breaking News on ESPN! Lately, that could mean anything from Brett Favre being spotted at Starbucks tossing sugar packs to high schoolers or LeBron James seen at the World Cup wearing a Real Madrid cap - obviously dissing Ghana in its own backyard. Oh, and Jerry Jones was there too, thus speculating that James was contemplating jumping from the NBA to the NFL to become a member of the Cowboys.

So when ESPN reported that James, Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade were all reportedly in Miami for their New World Order "Summit" prior to the start of free agency courting, I nearly fell for it.

If I invite some of my news anchor counterparts over to my house, can I label it a "Summit"? Please tell me there are some tax implications involved. I need a sizable write off! The IRS somehow has me mixed up with Larry Brown.

A summit! Doesn't anybody call them BBQ's anymore? House Party anyone?

The last time a mega trio like James, Wade and Bosh got together, they made a movie out of it. If you haven't seen Three The Hard Way my brother, well, you don't know your Blaxploitation films like you thought you did. You better ask somebody Super Fly!

Of course, now comes the rumor that James, Wade and Bosh are trying to work salary cap magic so they can all wear Miami Heat jerseys, spend the afternoons at Wet Willie's in South Beach and win NBA titles until they get bored of beating the mere mortals of the hardwood.

Do we really need all this chatter? The free agent period is just days away but the hours leading up to it will be dominated by the "experts" - The friend of a friend, who is close to a friend of James says... This girl I used to date was at a party where Wade was at and he told the dude bringing him a drink that... And yo, check this out, Bosh was at Best Buy sizing up big screens 'cause he says he needs to trick out his new condo in Miami Beach.

Enough already!

Give it a rest.

This isn't Christmas Eve... wait to open the damn presents!

Besides. We all know LeBron and Bosh are signing with Chicago!

GOING TO NEED MORE THAN ZEN... or how the Lakers can beat the Celtics

2010-06-14T21:21:00.005-04:00

Rivers: Not just an X's & O's guy

The Motrin challenged Boston Celtics are primed to deliver a knockout blow right at the doorstep of Hollywood's elite. For Game 6 in LA, I wouldn't be surprised to see Homer Simpson sitting courtside. For the Los Angeles Lakers, the finals have certainly reached the "D'oh" point.

So far, Celtics Head Coach Doc Rivers has not only out-coached The Zen Master, he's won the motivational battle as well. The Celtics have bought into the team concept, content to live with contributions from whichever player in green and white steps forward to capture the moment.

For the Lakers, no matter how much he tries to get his teammates involved, it seems to always come down to Kobe Bryant time. The bad news is, Bryant can't do it alone and the Celtics are making him work very hard for the majority of his points.

As each game passes, the Celtics seem to expose more and more of Ron Artest's basketball IQ. He has mental lapses and lacks confidence in his shot. His free throw shooting has become almost Shaq-like. For Game 5, Paul Pierce made him look like the Invisible Man on defense.

Rajon Rondo's athleticism has been a nightmare for the Lakers. He pushes the ball up the floor, plays sneaky tough defense and his rebounding skill for a 6-1 point guard is just sick. Bryant gives him a license to kill from the outside but somehow Rondo still manages to make it to the hoop, giving the Lakers bigs all kinds of problems.

Jackson needs to make adjustments

The Lakers are certainly a different team with 7-footer Andrew Bynum in the lineup, but his bum knee limits his time and production and drastically changes the method by which LA can attack and defend.

So what is Phil Jackson to do? First off, he has to get more comfortable playing his bench. To mix it up and give the Celtics a different look, I would start Lamar Odom in favor of Artest and let the agile 6-10 forward chase Pierce around. Pierce is not overly quick and when he tries to back a defender down, it's effective but not pretty. That step back or turnaround jumper would have an added degree of difficulty over the outstretched arms of Odom. At the opposite end, I'd either clear room for Odom to take the 6-7 Pierce to the hole or post him up.

How to handle Rondo? He's an excellent leaper as well but the Lakers have 6-4 Shannon Brown who can get up as well. If nothing else, I'd combine him with Jordan Farmar in order to throw bodies at Rondo to wear him down.

The Lakers also need to clear space in the middle. Boston only respects Bryant and Derek Fisher from the outside, but Sasha Vujacic has demonstrated confidence in his long range shot and Brown and Farmar have been known to nail a 3-pointer. With the Celtics spread out, Pau Gasol becomes a dangerous piece down low and if Bynum can play through the pain, the Lakers would be in position to exploit the inside.

Spell Odom with Artest and then let him get physical with Pierce. Also, to get Artest going offensively, the Lakers need to set back screens so he can break free for layups. Artest hurling up trays only reduces the Lakers effectiveness in the paint. He's a space eater as well and should be playing more inside where his physical nature will have more of an impact.

Now add in a lethal dose of a not so worn out Bryant and the Lakers have a blueprint for winning back-to-back titles.

That, at least, is my two cents worth for getting the Lakers over the top. Is the Cleveland job still open?

LeBron lets talk...

KOBE BRYANT - THE GREAT DIVIDE

2010-06-11T17:45:00.001-04:00

Where is the love?

When discussing the NBA's best player over the past several years, there doesn't seem to be a middle ground.

You either love or hate Kobe Bryant.

I can understand the love. Bryant is fiercely intense, always engaged on the court. He demands the best of himself on both ends of the floor. At times, he makes the incredible look routine. With each postseason appearance and NBA Championship ring, he creeps ever so softly into the Jordan discussion. He may never be crowned with the "Best Ever" label, but Bryant definitely owns property in the neighborhood.

You'd expect a player with those attributes and drive to be cherished and admired by all who claim to be students of the game. You don't necessarily have to root for Bryant, but you should at the very least, respect his talent.

So why the hate? Especially it seems from women. Is it totally based on the 2003 Colorado incident when he was accused of sexual assault? A case that prosecutors dropped after his accuser was unwilling to testify. Of course, she later brought a separate civil suit against him that was settled out of court. One only needs to read the details of the case to make a judgement on what possibly happened that night. But since there was no one else in the room that night except for Bryant and her, it became a he said, she said regrettable moment in their lives.

And they're spectacular

I would like to know how many women would stay with their man if they truly believed he was a rapist? Sure, the financial cost to Kobe was astronomical. There's never been an account of how much the civil suit was settled for. He lost a number of endorsements (only to eventually either gain most back or get new ones). Bryant also did what all guys do when they really have to apologize to the wife. Nothing says I love you like a 4 million dollar ring. To this date, Vanessa is still Mrs. Bryant. Guess Kobe had to wait on purchasing the big screen TV that year.

Is the hate because Kobe isn't outwardly fun loving as say Dwight "Superman" Howard? If that's the case, and he's judged as being unapproachable, too bad. There's no law that says Kobe has to kiss babies and pose for photos. If he isn't on Facebook or didn't accept your friendship request, get over yourself. If Kobe doesn't Tweet, perhaps he realizes he doesn't have to brag or boast or let you into his world.

Is it that Bryant sometimes gets on his teammates for not giving more when they should be leaving everything on the floor? Michael Jordan certainly required the best from his supporting cast and they were better for it. A lot of people and players in the league didn't like Jordan either. Six rings and the Hall of Fame later, guess we know who dominated that era.

When Kobe Bryant walks through the tunnel to take the court, I wonder if the lyrics of a popular song are looping through his head.

So hate on but guess what

I feel like I can't miss

I know they want me to fall

But ain't nothing bigger than this

So just pass me the ball

You know you looking at a...

Winner

MIDNIGHT RUN

2010-05-24T17:49:00.001-04:00

When winning isn't enough

Late last night, Mike Brown learned two things.

One, it ain't easy being Cinderella. Like the babe with the glass slippers, Brown had to hit the road before midnight. Though in this economy, I wish someone would send me packing with a severance check of over two million dollars. If the Cavs had let the clock tick to midnight, they would have been on the hook for 4.5 million.

Brown guided the Cavs to the ball in each of his five seasons at the helm, making it to the big dance in 2007. Brown's record of 317-177 makes him the most successful coach in Cavs history and he was tabbed coach of the year in 2009. Guess he forgot how to coach in one season.

The second thing Brown learned is why Phil Jackson is so revered. It ain't easy coaching superstars. Jackson has handled and gotten the respect of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant -- no small order. But championships don't lie, and Jackson has run out of ring fingers.

Understanding that James was one of the prominent faces of the new NBA, Brown was careful not to publicly criticize the franchise. That street didn't run booth ways. James had no problem in past years questioning Brown's offensive strategies and during the recent Boston series, when O'Neal sat on the bench except for 49 seconds in the fourth quarter of a Game 4 loss, James openly wondered why.

Knowing Brown was being evaluated by owner Dan Gilbert and General Manager Danny Ferry, James elected to have no input, which in itself was an indictment. If James wanted Brown back, all he had to do was pick up a phone or in this social networking age, even a tweet would have been sufficient.

Again, don't feel too bad for Brown. He'll certainly get another job and has a nice down payment toward the purchase of another house. And there were times in the series against Boston when he seemed clueless as to how to combat the cohesiveness of the Celtics veteran squad. Remember, it wasn't long ago that critics said Doc Rivers couldn't coach either. Talent has a funny way of paving the way for success. To that end, how much responsibility falls on Cavs management? They tried to surround James with workable pieces but the Cavs have learned the hard way deficiencies show up in the playoffs. Why didn't the Cavs for instance go after Pau Gasol when the Lakers snapped him up from Memphis? I can tell you for a fact the Cavs never thought they had a shot to get the All-Star center, but somehow the Lakers found a way.

While the James sweepstakes chatter continues, perhaps he has learned one lesson. Magic Johnson did it. Jordan did it. Kobe went through it and DeWayne Wade endured it. All either had coaches fired or sat on the sideline while management figured it out.

PRIME TIME FUMBLE

2010-04-25T16:41:00.001-04:00

Is the 2010 NFL Draft over yet?

Richard Chamberlain

Did I just finally start paying more attention or has it always been a made-for-tv mini-series? I kept waiting for Richard Chamberlain to pop up on ESPN as a guest analyst, offering his opinion on work ethic (For you youngsters, Chamberlain used to be the No. 1 draft pick of tv mini-series).

Prime Time

At times, watching the prime time NFL Draft was just about as tiresome as watching Prime Time. This thing dragged on for three days and as a result, in my opinion, it failed to capture the emotion or momentum of previous drafts. The prime time experiment had me switching back and forth between the draft, the Cavs-Bulls playoff game and a couple of major league baseball offerings. ESPN overkilled this thing to the point where you felt like you were watching three straight days of Super Bowl pregame hype.

One of my favorite moments of absurdity was when ESPN had a reporter at Colt McCoy's house and when he had yet to be selected in the first round, the reporter had to gauge his reaction from a family member! If you couldn't get McCoy to comment directly, what was the point of being there???

Mel Kiper, Jr/Todd McShay

After a while I just wanted somebody to hand Mel Kiper, Jr. and Todd McShay boxing gloves so they could finally work out their anger management issues. Did Kiper have stock in quarterback Jimmy Clausen? You could just see his underwear getting tighter as each team passed on the Notre Dame prospect. There was a moment when it looked liked Jon Gruden just wanted to smack the crap out of Kiper.

Jon Gruden

To me, when the draft was on Saturdays, it was a much more anticipated event. You got the chance to wake up, run some errands, maybe get in a round of golf and then block off most of the afternoon to sit down and watch your team either implode or make you want to run out and buy a jersey. First round done, fine. Now would come the all important second round where deals were made and value picks were in abundance all over the country.

In prime time, you had to either pick up the kids from school, get off work, get dinner or get to your friends house or sports bar in a rush. Not relaxing. And this time around, when the first round was over, that was it. Goodnight. Hard to judge or give out grades as to what team is doing a good job of picking up talent. Y'all come on back tomorrow night. Problem is, tomorrow night just isn't as compelling and I didn't even remember what time it was supposed to start.

For a player to possibly wait three days to hear if his name is called seems just a tad cruel. Can you really afford to have that many munchies or parties? I mean, by the third day, cousin Bubba would be wearing out his welcome.

So, what's your opinion? Did you like the format change or miss the good ol' days?

WHERE IS THE BROTHERLY LOVE?

2010-04-03T11:03:00.000-04:00

Time for change?

If Donovan McNabb was a prima donna, I wouldn't care so much.

If Donovan McNabb was out smacking or abusing women, assaulting law enforcement or threatening reporters, I wouldn't give him a second thought.

If Donovan McNabb was taking shortcuts by using steroids or a habitual drug user, I'd write him off.

If Donovan McNabb finally gave a press conference and criticized his head coach or the Philadelphia Eagles front office, I wouldn't hold it against him. But, I know he won't do that or any of the things above because Donovan McNabb is a class act.

It's a darn shame that the City of Brotherly Love can't show that brother any love.

If you seriously think backup quarterback Kevin Kolb is a better option for the Eagles at the moment, congratulations on being able to see into the future. If the Eagles are willing to unload McNabb because they think Kolb is ready and believe it's a good financial move to boot, it's their money, their right to decide the future of their franchise.

The reality of being a professional athlete is that few teams reward life-long performance. The Bulls let Michael Jordan walk, the Philadelphia 76ers got rid of Wilt Chamberlain, Willie Mays ended his career in New York, Joe Montana in Kansas City.

Entering his 12th NFL season, McNabb's tenure in Philadelphia has never taken on that 'Take your coat off, stay awhile' feel. He was booed by fans when the Eagles selected him second overall in the 1999 draft, right behind Tim "Ouch" Couch.

All McNabb has done in return is lead the Eagles to five NFC Championship games, four consecutive NFL East Division Championships (2001-2004) and a Super Bowl appearance against the New England Patriots in which the Eagles came up short.

The rap on McNabb is that he can lead you to water, but can't quite fill up the glass. The unfairness of it all is that the bulk of criticism falls on his shoulders. It has often been debated that the fault lies with head coach Andy Reid's pass first, pass often philosophy. Would the Eagles have enjoyed better success if more emphasis had been placed on establishing a running game?

At 33 years old, a banged up McNabb is no longer the running threat he used to be which makes the presence of Michael Vick an intriguing window to the past. On some level, Vick must remind Reid of that young stud out of Syracuse, fleet of foot with a strong arm.

Do you really unload the team's all time leader in career wins, pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards, and passing TDs, so easily? Banish him to a team like the Oakland Raiders? McNabb on the Raiders equals what, maybe two or three more wins (They were 5-11 last season)? In return, if the Eagles get cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha, they'd counter the talented bunch of receivers that reside in the NFC East.

A better fit for McNabb? The San Francisco 49ers. Bring his 216 career TDs under center and the 49ers immediately solve their QB woes to become the favorite to win the NFC West. It would be a fitting place for McNabb to play out his career, joining the legendary names of Montana and Steve Young.

The 49ers are in great shape to make such a deal too. They possess the 13th and 17th pick in the first round of the upcoming draft. Add a veteran to the mix and maybe the Eagles would bite.

For McNabb, it would be a strange feeling. Imagine actually being somewhere where you're wanted and appreciated.

FREAKS COME OUT AT NIGHT...

2010-03-30T15:07:00.000-04:00

Will the smile return at the Masters?

Old school rap group Whodini had a song called "Freaks Come Out At Night." That could be Tiger Woods' theme song with adult entertainer Joslyn James emerging as the head cheerleader. Now, I've seen my share of porn, but James is bending way over backward to be a pain in the butt.

I'm not familiar with James' work but I'm sure she's talented. I'm also sure she must be a bit delusional. Since it was revealed that James was apparently on the back nine of Woods' trysts, she seems to think the world's No.1 owes her and the other women an apology. She's also upset that Woods denies anyone in his inner circle was aware of her steamy presence. Am I missing something here? An apology? Perhaps she is confusing "apology" with "payoff".

Joslyn James

James, whose real name is Veronica Siwik-Daniels, wrote on her website: "You're supposed to apologize to them directly and make amends," she said. "I've yet to see anything that even resembles that." The back to reality moment for James is, she probably never will either. Sorry, no deposit for you. I don't think James ever considered calling Tiger's wife prior to spreading her legs and saying, "I apologize, but I'm about to sleep with your husband." This might be a difficult concept for her to understand, but she should consider just keeping her mouth shut. By releasing text messages, e-mails and details of an alleged three-year relationship, the only person James is hurting at this point is Woods' wife Elin and their children.

Ah, but James can't accept it's over. She hasn't sufficiently gotten her 15 minutes of shame. She recently announced plans to be in attendance when Tiger returns to golf at the prestigious Masters. Talk about a minor being at a major.

James also plans to get paid that week by pole dancing at the Pink Pony strip club in Atlanta, a short 150 miles away from Augusta. Hmmmm. I wonder if daily shuttle service to the Pink Pony will be offered as part of the Masters experience that week. Nothing says big time event like a hand stamp from the Pink Pony.

I can attest that I've seen every one of the 14 majors Tiger has won, starting with the 1997 Masters and the numerous wins in between. His dominance on the links over that span is compelling and the only aspect of Tiger's life that interests me. On the other hand, I did take the time to look up some of James' stellar performances and somehow I missed Who's Your Momma, Part 2 and Mayhem Explosions 8. There are others, but I'm holding out for maybe The Hurt Locker 9.

Back to the texts. Nothing really earth shattering in the sample James says came from Tiger (She failed to include her responses). James claims he likes it rough. Really rough. Well, for those of us who've been glued to the television when Tiger is in the thick of a competitive tournament, we already know he likes the rough.

And somehow, miraculously, he recovers.

CAST A GIANT SHADOW

2010-03-28T18:04:00.003-04:00

Simply the best

It's not exactly pump your chest out time if you reside in Michigan. The state leads the nation in unemployment at over 14 percent. Michigan is not far behind in pacing the country in foreclosure rates, and its auto industry needed costly government bailouts in order to survive. Oh, and the Detroit Lions have been the laughing stock of the NFL for years. Not exactly the kind of stuff that instills confidence.

There is one thing Michigan can be proud about. Forget the accolades bestowed upon Roy Williams, Mike Krzyzewski, Jim Boeheim, Rick Pitino and that crowd. It should be obvious by now that the best college basketball coach in all the land resides in the thumb state. There is no one better roaming the sideline than Michigan State Spartans Head Coach Tom Izzo.

If you hardliners need proof, chew on this. Since 1999, no school has amassed more NCAA tourney games than the Spartans, a terrific 33-10 record -- so far. Add to that, 6-1 in regional finals, six Final Fours and a national title . And yeah, State was just there last year in the championship game against North Carolina. Sick! Just sick!

Making his his annual run through the tourney, Izzo has had to do it this year after losing Kalin Lucas, his starting point guard, in first half against Maryland. This has arguably been one of Izzo's best coaching jobs considering this team provided a number of aspirin moments during the regular season.

If Izzo were to get close to the talent that regularly lines up around the corner to wear a Tar Heels or Blue Devils jersey, he'd be cast in stone by now. I've learned my lesson. From now on, I'm just going to automatically pencil in the Spartans to make it to at least the Elite 8.

In a day and age where so many youngsters lack discipline, Izzo leaves no doubt as to who is in charge. Late in the regular season, Lucas bailed on the media after a game, offering no comment. The next day, he was in front of the cameras, apologizing for his exit the night before. That's the way things get handled in Izzo's world - take responsibility for your actions. There's room for healthy discussion, for airing out differences. The coach is willing to sit down and listen to reason. When it comes time to perform on the court though, Izzo is darn near a dictator. He expects and demands that his players leave it all on the floor.

The pro game has come calling to East Lansing more than once and I'm sure other collegiate programs have offered Izzo his own Brinks truck, but so far, thankfully, his response has been 'Go Green. Go White.'

Bracketology (Or, I Really Have No Clue)

2010-03-16T22:15:00.003-04:00

The madness hasn't officially begun yet and my head is already spinning. Did I really watch and record over three hours of a show called "The Experts" on ESPN Sunday night? This after watching Selection Sunday on CBS, the commercial volume criticism of Dick Vitale (that upset over Virginia Tech not getting in!) and the seemingly running for office analysis of Digger Phelps. I'm down to 28 percent space left on my Directv HD DVR. How many more episodes of Burn Notice are left?

I'm having nightmares thinking about my bracket as if I was runner up in a Skip Bayless look-alike contest. And the NCAA committee is actually tossing around the idea of expanding the field for March Madness beyond 65 teams. Stop the crazy talk! I'm going nuts just tyring to find every scouting report that's out there. For instance is 6-8 San Diego State freshman forward Kawhi Leonard (12.8 ppg/9.9 reb) stud enough to lead the Mountain West's Aztecs past Tennessee of the SEC in the first round?

Over thinking it? You bet. I'm a guy who prides himself on watching way too much sports. March Madness and the fantasy football season is the only chance I have all year to help offset my satellite tv sports subscriptions. Win, and I earn the right to give my wife the look. The one that says don't even think about questioning me over my addiction to sports. It's the look we guys get when they march off to the beauty salon.

Are the Jayhawks your No.1?

If you're in an office pool, there should be some guidelines, like just one entry per person. What's up with the multiple submissions? In the spirit of the games, it should be one and done babeeeee! Or at the very least, that second and third submission price should hurt your wallet a little bit. That first sheet is the bandwagon entry. Kansas to win it all because that's what the majority of the experts are saying. Those subsequent entries are the let me show people how smart I am with my multiple chances. Yeah, I knew Siena would give Duke all they wanted. Or the I told you to watch out for Vanderbilt crowd. One sheet!

By now, if you've watched every prediction show available, you've been beaten over the head about the history of the 12 versus 5 seeds and how this team or that team got hot down the stretch, their quality wins during the season and body of work. Unless you've got game film of every team in the tournament, join the rest of us and just bet your hunch or limited knowledge or be like one of my co-workers who picks teams based on uniform color. You can ask how her bracket is doing if you run into her at the beauty salon. It's a good possibility she'll still be in the running to win the whole thing.

And I just experienced a nightmare. I turned on ESPN and thought I'd done a Rip Van Winkle and slept through a few games of the tournament because North Carolina is playing. I then realized this isn't the dance I care about.

ED NEEDS TO TAKE A TIME OUT

2009-12-22T21:36:00.003-05:00

Okay, you know when you have one of those Norman Rockwell moments; you can't help but feel good as a dad.

There you are sitting in front of the big-screen TV, the bigger the better because size matters, your young son or daughter adoringly by your side, watching sports, taking a vested interest. Maybe, just maybe, you have a player in the making.

The kid is asking all the right questions. Dad, why did they call a timeout? What happened to the shot clock? What is traveling? What's defensive interference? (A few NFL refs might want to brush up on that one as well) What's a double-play? You get the idea. You've been there.

But, before you can wipe the butter popcorn off your fingers, it's a commercial break. And without warning, BOOM... there it is. "Dad... what is Erectile Dysfunction?"

Are you freaking kidding me! Enough already! Whatever happened to age appropriate programming? ED is not exactly the conversation you want to have with your kid during the Lakers-Celtics game. "Well, son, if I take one of those pills, your mom and I are going to go one-on-one by the fourth quarter. And there might be overtime."

"Hey dad, it says it can last up to 36 hours." Of course, if you have a teenage son, his interest peaks when he hears... "If you experience an erection lasting more than four hours... "

And doesn't Las Vegas seem even more tempting with the "Viva Viagra" song? What happens for a long time in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Oh, sure, the FCC can throw its weight around and issue hefty fines when Janet Jackson's breast gets exposed for the blink of an eye during a Super Bowl halftime show. But prime-time talk of a stronger, longer lasting erection while the family's together, is advertising at its best.

Growing up, I remember my mom used to have difficulties trying to explain to me what tampons were while she watched her daytime soap operas. I haven't seen one of those ads in years. I don't see them during WNBA games, women's college softball, the LPGA. I guess women really haven't come that far because they're taking a back seat to all those big, bad, pill popping men, some of whom are ready in as little as thirty minutes.

I know ESPN and the various networks showing sporting events need ad revenue to survive but some executive needs to step up and say, we're going soft during certain hours of the day.

There are some conversations better left for the bedroom -- not the family TV viewing room.

CUBS SHIP BRADLEY TO MARINERS FOR SILVA (DID I MISS TRYOUT DAY?)

2009-12-18T19:23:00.000-05:00

I know it's hard to believe your cell phone didn't blow up with alerts on the blockbuster deal of Milton Bradley for Carlos Silva.

Don't do a double take but that probably is Cubs management tossing them back at Murphy's Bleachers sports bar outside Wrigley Field. Click your heels two times, Bradley isn't a Cub anymore.

Mr. Human Combustion is now the Seattle Mariners' headache and let me tell you; don't ever get caught in a poker game with a major league GM. Jack Zduriencik, the Mariners general manager summed up Bradley's career explosions as a passion to win. He's hoping character guys like Ken Griffey Jr. and newcomer Chone Figgins will be able to simmer Bradley's fire, channeling it into productive plate appearances like the ones the 2008 All-Star blinded the Cubs with.

Before you get caught up in a feel good moment, the Cubs didn't exactly get Cy Young in return. The right handed Silva, though quietly, has been a huge disappointment. He's won a mere five games in the first two years of his four-year, (better take a seat or make sure you're not holding something sharp) $48 million contract.

If he could throw some heat, I would have rather seen the Cubs pick up Henry Silva. His cold-hearted stare would make for a great closer. Rent the movie Sharky's Machine, you'll see what I mean. "A Ghost, Sharky..."

Make no mistake, for both teams, this is all about unloading some personnel embarrassments and outrageous contracts. Sort of like two businessmen who brought property in the slums, expecting to make a killing when the neighborhood turned around.

Another reason to rejoice on the North Side of Chicago is that the Cubs will reportedly also get $9 million in cash from Seattle spread out over two years. Bradley is on the books for another $22 million and Silva $25 million. A bad wing sidelined Silva for most of 2009 but when he did pitch, the results were 1-3 with an ERA of 8.60.

Look, I'm just saying, I must have missed tryout day because I played some semi-pro ball in the Virgin Islands and at a fraction of the cost, I know I could get my ERA under 8.60.

Ah, Cub fans, wait 'til next year!

WHAT'S THE BACK NINE LOOK LIKE?

2009-12-09T23:04:00.001-05:00

"FORE!"

In his mind, Tiger Woods has probably been screaming golf's code word for an errant shot. Right now, Tiger's life is in the deep rough.

Now that everyone's had more than a week to calm down, it's really difficult to have much sympathy for Tiger. After all, this nightmare is his own doing. But Tiger, financially, will survive just nicely; even if other endorsements decide to bail like Gatorade (The drink wasn't exactly fist-pumping to begin with). Tiger is the first athlete in history to top a billion dollars in earnings. If he quit right now, his bottom line would be bigger than a number of third world countries.

Team Tiger has been huddled up behind closed doors, trying to manage a situation in which women are coming out of the shadows as if they were Bond girls. With the media sharks circling the Windermere, Florida waters, a feeding frenzy took place early Tuesday morning with yet another trip to the hospital.

Makes you think Tiger should convert a section of the estate into a medical facility, staffed with a doctor and nurse -- a male nurse please -- because based on the former Perkins restaurant worker Tiger is alleged to have spent time with, apparently not even Rosa Klebb is off the menu.

You know Tiger has gotten phone calls from every friend in his inner circle, offering advice, sympathy and love. He probably has to use a landline now because Elin may have outlawed cell phones in the house or at the very least, cancelled the unlimited text messaging plan.

So what should Tiger do now? Dr. Phil, it's the holiday season so take some time off.

Let's first get down to the basics and realize who we're dealing with. Tiger Woods is a global conglomerate. Larger than life. An image upon which billions have been made. It's chipped but not broken. You might not be able to drink the Gatorade anymore but there's no way a company like Nike can afford to turn its back on Tiger. They will grow old together like fine wine. If Tiger Woods golf merchandise starts to go on sale, I'm going to stand in line like its Black Friday.

When he surfaces, Tiger is going to have to cope with mounds of ridicule and criticism. "You Da Man" might be replaced with some other choice phrases and he's just going to have to learn to deal with it. The person whose psyche has to be dealt with is Elin's. Tiger's wife is the one who deserves everyone's concern. The basic question she has to answer is: Do you still love this man? And if so, and you stay the course, can you handle all the looks and questions of "how could you?" that will follow wherever she goes in public.

Staying in a loveless marriage just for the kids sends the wrong message to thousands of women out there. It happens every day where women are abused and feel no way out because there are children involved. Children need love, not convenience.

If Tiger and Elin can't patch things up, prenup or no prenup, he needs to step up and do the right thing, which in this case means writing one very huge check. I've heard 80 million dollars being tossed around. It sounds astronomical but consider he could lose around 300 million in endorsements, all of sudden it sounds like a bargain. It was also Tiger who swooped in and swept a former au pair off her feet, carrying her off to make believe land. She was no doubt as shocked as we were that her prince has frog-like tendencies.

And it wasn't Tiger doing the kissing and telling which brings us to the women in question. You know, I thought a guy who could skillfully maneuver a 6-iron 250 yards over water to a pin head green would have better judgment in all aspects of his life. Instead, most of the women Tiger's rumored to have had trysts with are nothing more than lift, clean and place on a good day.

Granted, the women who have intimate text messages or serious proof have probably already been paid off, ensuring that those private exchanges will never see the light of TMZ. But what of the other women who have come forward? What's up with that? Publically announcing, "Hey, I slept with Tiger and all I've got to show for it is a few blog postings." I mean what's the motivation? Are there benefits like being an AARP member? Do these women now get half off at AMC movie theaters? No cover charge at the hottest nightclubs in Vegas? Free desert with your meal? You think Tiger's mom isn't proud!

I do think no matter what the fallout will be, when Tiger Woods does make his return to the course in 2010, lookout world all over again. The PGA tour still needs Tiger to bolster events and the playing field just might have to deal with a more focused No. 1.

LET'S BRING BACK HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-12-06T12:17:00.002-05:00

For the Kanye West, Lady Gaga generation, there used to be a time when ringing in the New Year meant partying until the wee hours and then waking up late -- 11AM or later -- to be pleasantly greeted with a day long feast of college bowl games.

New Year's Day used to be sacred.

The Rose, Sugar, Cotton and Orange Bowl all headlined on the same day. The various broadcast networks staggered start times and it was pure fan heaven. Now when the BCS title game gets underway, it seems at about the same time pitchers and catchers have to report.

So, instead of having a bevy of games to choose from, we're sometimes left with only one or two games on a given day leading up to New Year's and hopefully those games won't be blowouts. I don't know about you, but I don't want to be forced to channel surf and get sucked into watching Designed to Sell or America's Biggest Loser.

Everyone wants a little recognition for a hard fought season but achieving only six wins to be bowl eligible is a bunch of crap. The bowl picture is now a diluted, feel good about your program playing field. Raise your hand if you just can't wait for the: St. Petersburg Bowl, Eagle Bank Bowl, Meineke Car Care Bowl, Maaco Bowl, Chick-fil-A Bowl, GMAC Bowl, Papa Johns Bowl -- I could go on and on.

Granted, maybe I'm just being a "I went to a big university" snob. But, Purdue hasn't been to anything of significance lately, either, and didn't look that great when they did. Boilermaker fans, though, travel well and most of these nondescript bowls understand that principle about a number of programs. Thus, if you create it, they will come.

This really has become one of those things that's gotten out of control, sort of like spring break in various Florida beach communities. The recession has given way to a lot of toilet bowls that need to be flushed.

I'm just old school and want my New Year's Day back. Lots of food, friends, hope, optimism and games well into the night.

WOUNDED TIGER WILL ROAR AGAIN

2009-12-02T17:47:00.008-05:00

For the past week and counting, Tiger Woods has had to negotiate the trickiest slope of his life – a slippery one.

In the blink of an eye, the millisecond it takes to get into a car crash, the air bag deflated on his pristine reputation. Herculean on the golf course, Tiger admitted last week that when off the fairway, he was human like everybody else. Prone to make mistakes.

When you’re the most well known face in the world, a fall from the top will expose you to the people you managed to avoid on the way up. And those interactions can sometimes be anything but pleasant.

Tiger Woods isn’t the first, and certainly won’t be the last household name to succumb to temptation. Maybe a psychologist can provide insight as to why, but it seems that for a few people who are truly exceptional, highly successful, and driven in one aspect of their life, sometimes fail to apply the same discipline required, in areas that demand an ounce of common sense.

Secluded inside his Florida estate, the square footage must seem painfully reduced and yet, there are a number of issues he can’t escape. Tiger must now heal what should take precedent over chasing any historical number put up by Jack Nicklaus. If he needs any motivation, it’s in plain view all over his residence. There are two beautiful children that must melt his heart and make him proud to be a father. And then, there’s his wife, Elin. She came under Tiger’s radar in 2001 when fellow golfer Jesper Parnevik introduced the world’s No. 1 to his then nanny, Elin Nordegren. Three years later, they became husband and wife. She had to feel like Cinderella and her prince had finally arrived.

If Tiger needs further soul searching, he should think how far up his butt his father’s foot would be if Earl Woods was still alive. Having had a character building father myself, I can only imagine the words the man largely responsible for shaping Tiger’s mental toughness would have for his son. Believe me, that’s a significant void in Tiger’s life.

I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting or spending time with Tiger but I would guess there aren’t many people in the “Team Tiger” circle who feel they have the license to be up front with him. If there was, I don’t think his self admitted “transgressions” would have begun or continued after a serious sit down of “Are you crazy? What the hell are you thinking? Risk throwing it all away for that?”

So a wannabe famous cocktail waitress is getting her five minutes of fame (and the clock is ticking rapidly) by exposing an alleged affair with Tiger. According to her, she’s kept over 300 text messages from him and what a class act to let her co-workers listen to a voicemail from Tiger. She’s a real go-getter. Management material.

Tiger is right in saying that this is a personal matter. The media should back off, but in this day and age, that seems to be a fleeting, unrealistic wish. It’s also understandable if some of the companies that endorse him have serious meetings behind closed doors. The majority I suspect will stick with him, believing he is a man of character who can and will overcome this blemish on his reputation.

Tiger issued an apology. Accepted. But he really didn’t owe me one. He would if Thursday thru Sunday while playing in a tournament he didn’t give it his all. He’d owe me an apology then for wasting the hours invested watching him perform as the best player in the game.

To this date, he’s never had to say he’s sorry.

UPDATE:
Jesper Parnevik had some strong words on the situation, considering Elin and her twin sister once worked for the family as au pairs.

"I feel really sorry for Elin -- since me and my wife were at fault for hooking her up with him," Parnevik said. "We probably thought he was a better guy than he is. I would probably need to apologize to her and hope she uses a driver next time instead of the 3-iron. It's a private thing of course," he added. "But when you are the guy he is, the world's best athlete, you should think more before you do stuff."

NOT GOOD ENOUGH

2009-11-30T16:19:00.004-05:00

Charlie Weis has no defense for getting the axe today.

He said prior to the Stanford game he'd totally understand if Notre Dame officials decided to give him his walking papers. Now, unlike most of us, Weis won't
be posting a resume on Monster dot com. If we mere
mortals got canned, and sent away with 18 million
dollars nicely tucked away in a bank account, it would
be tropical drinks, beach, ocean and Directv for the rest of our lives.

But not Charlie. He says at least six NFL teams have expressed interest in him becoming an offensive coordinator. That sounds like a good place for Weis.

As Dirty Harry once said, "A man's got to know his limitations."

So the university with egg on its face is Notre Dame. Athletic director Jack Swarbrick said in a news release, "We have great expectations for our football program, and we have not been able to meet those expectations."

Weis had a whopping six years left on his contract. So, what this means if you're a Notre Dame alum is check the caller ID on your phone before answering. The university just lost a huge chunk of money and they might have their hand out for donations.
Weis' record of 35-27 in five seasons makes Tyrone Willingham and Bob Davie seem like bargains.

Rest assured the next coach is going to get paid recession dollars. Here's an idea, how about loading a contract up with incentive bonuses! Top 10 finish... more money, BCS Bowl game... more money... National Championship... priceless.

Well, send The Leprechaun out on the recruiting trail. Just keep in mind, there's no longer a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

GOODBYE CHARLIE

2009-11-21T19:05:00.003-05:00

Wow... it appears he really can't coach. At least not on the collegiate level under the bright lights of the Peacock network.

Sometimes you can't go home. Charlie Weis, Notre Dame graduate, has been a total failure as Charlie Weis, Notre Dame head football coach. A dream job turned into a nightmare.

Losing at home to Connecticut Saturday 33-30 in double overtime has to be the last straw. It was senior day!

When he was hired, Weis, at his news conference, remarked about how the Irish had a 6-5 team and that wasn't good enough. He added if you want a .500 coach, you've got the wrong guy. The funny thing about words, is that sometimes you have to eat them.

The Irish are now 6-5, having lost three straight. Next week they go on the road to take on Stanford and yep, looks like they'll be a .500 club.

The Irish, straight from the horses mouth, have the wrong guy.

At the beginning of the season, there was so much excitement surrounding South Bend. There was talk of being in the National Championship picture. But in order to that, you have to play defense at some point and it seemed like an after thought too many times on the field of play.

Can Notre Dame really give Weis his walking papers? As ESPN football analyst Mark May pointed out, Weis' buyout is around 18 million dollars and when you throw in his staff, which also has to be let go, the tab hovers around 40 million. In this economic climate, if Weis is let go for that amount, serious consideration should be given to the employment status of the individuals who hired him in the first place. Plus, it's going to be hard to fend off the wave of criticism now that Weis has a worst losing percentage than Bob Davie and Tyrone Willingham, two coaches who were quickly shown the door.

Fact is, Notre Dame hasn't been in the National Championship hunt for a long time and the alumni refuse to believe that times have changed. Kids don't spend their entire youth dreaming of playing for the Irish anymore.

And besides, everyone knows the best night on NBC is still Thursday, not Saturday.

THAT ANSWER CAME QUICK

2009-11-17T16:30:00.003-05:00

C’mon. Really?

Allen Iverson and the Memphis Grizzlies have parted company?

You mean the lowly, travelling in the slow lane Grizzlies couldn’t use the services of a 10-time All-Star and former league MVP?
Or was it more Iverson getting sick to his stomach every time he had to come off the bench to spell starters Mike Conley and O.J. Mayo? Hmmmmm. That took all of three games!

Coming off the bench for say Richard Hamilton is a lot easier to digest than subbing for Conley or Mayo when you’re the Answer!

Once again, Memphis was just a team that didn’t understand the Answer. Didn’t realize that the sum of all points has to go through A.I.

The truth is Iverson still has shelf life. In those three games with Memphis, he averaged 12.3 ppg on 57 percent shooting, playing 22.3 minutes an outing. That may very well be the final stat lines for Iverson unless he can dribble his way onto another team. But in order for that to happen, the 34-year old Iverson has to come to terms with one fact. It’s unlikely the PA announcer in any NBA arena is going to shout out his name as a starter anymore.

In Memphis, the Grizzlies thought they were getting a big name and a player who could help develop their young backcourt. What they got instead was a player who’s name on the marquee was missing a few bulbs, cast in shadow by a young team trying to get better.

So Iverson officially exited because of “personal matters”. When you’re the 16th player in NBA history to score 24,000 points, I guess you do take it personally to occupy a seat while watching a couple of guys no one would recognize on the street soak up prime minutes.

Maybe during the summer Iverson glanced at the various NBA rosters and concluded, when the phone wasn’t ringing off of the hook, that he surely would be a starter in Memphis. I mean c’mon!

Surprise. Surprise.

If the Grizzlies were willing to to let a promising big like Pau Gasol go for a song, surely Iverson wasn’t going to be the Answer to a much larger question.

UPDATE:

Will the Orlando Magic give Iverson a call now that starting point guard Jameer Nelson is due to miss 4 to 6 weeks for arthroscopic surgery on his left knee?

Right now the job goes to backup point Jason Williams who's 34. An Iverson, Vince Carter backcourt? Could Dwight Howard get enough touches? Don't forget Rashard Lewis is roaming the perimeter as well.

HOT SEAT

2009-11-10T21:53:00.001-05:00

The way some coaches are ~~performing~~, er, underperforming, Homer Simpson should at least get an interview. He does have a proven track record, calling the shots for nearly 20 years.

The number of coaches on the hot seat are virtual bonfires waiting to happen. Numerous fans would be willing to offer a match, feeling their team's season have already imploded.

Sports talk radio phone lines in Detroit were flashing like Christmas lights Saturday after Michigan lost to Purdue in the Big House 38-36. It was the Boilermakers first win in Ann Arbor since 1966.

Fire Rich Rod! He's Got To Go! He's Not A Michigan Man!

The retort is simple. How do you like Lloyd Carr now? You remember him. The guy boosters rode out of town because Ohio State's Jim Tressel seemed to have his number. The Lloyd Carr that ran a pro-style offense and put Michigan in a bowl game every year. Yeah, that guy.

So in comes the innovator from West Virginia, who in seven seasons won four Big East Championships. Year one at Ann Arbor, 3-9 overall, 2-6 in the Big Ten - no bowl game. Now in year two, Rich Rod is 5-5 overall and 1-5 in conference play.

The man who hired him, Athletic Director Bill Martin is retiring, leaving Rodriguez isolated on an island of criticism. And yet, despite the mob mentality, you have to give Rodriguez at least one more year. He's had to mesh some of Carr's leftovers, those that stayed, into his system and that has not been an easy task.

Michigan fans be cautious of wanting someone who has roots to the program. One of the Wolverines big wins this season was over Notre Dame who has 1978 grad Charlie Weis calling the shots.

Last Saturday Weis got outcoached and had to watch his superior athletes fall to a spirited Navy team, 23-21. Since taking over in 2005, Weis is 5-12 against ranked opponents and 11-21 against teams with a winning record. The overall record is a respectable 35-24 but taking into account the previous numbers, you do the math as to who the Irish have been feasting on. This season alone Notre Dame has benifited from a coaching blunder by Purdue and an ill advised pass by Michigan State.

No one is saying Notre Dame won't put together successful seasons, (think 8 to 9 win years) but if the alumni thinks this program is ever going to return to the glory days of being in the National Title hunt every season, someone obviously isn't watching the teams that don't play on NBC.

In the NFL, wasn't Lovie Smith in a Super Bowl just a few years ago?

What the hell has happened to the Monsters of the Midway?

Granted, the Bears have never seriously scared anyone offensively, but lately, they've just been stinking up the lake front. The organization sold its soul to acquire Jay Cutler from Denver. Two first picks, a third rounder and Kyle Orton! That had to at least be a crime in some Chicago ward.

Exactly who did the Bears think was going to be on the receiving end of Cutler's passes? They still act as if Devin Hester is going to turn into Reggie Wayne one day. Here's a thought. One of these draft years or free agent signing periods, get a top notch wideout!

It wasn't like he was making plays all over the field anymore but the Bears do miss linebacker Brian Urlacher's feel for the game on defense. Lovie has taken over the defense and the Bears have been getting torched so bad you'd think the O'Leary's were up in the pressbox.

It was also Lovie and the Bears that shipped Thomas Jones out of town to make room for Cedric Benson who also wore out his welcome. They sure love him in Cincinnati though.

Jim Zorn of the Washington Redskins has been coaching as if two of his harshest critics, Sonny Jurgensen and John Riggins, are still on the team. When your resume stood out because you were supposed to be a hot shot offensive coordinator, you should at least do something innovative. Lulling opposing defenses to sleep isn't working.

There is no mystery here. Zorn will soon have plenty of time to work on his golf strategy. Who knew when he yelled "FORE" he was talking about how many games the Skins might win this season.

Is Eric Mangini that guy who keeps showing up at parties and everyone soon leaves? Was it mostly Brett Favre in New York?

In fairness to Mangini, the Cleveland Browns have been a mess long before he got there. It just looks worse now. Front office problems, personnel problems, LeBron didn't pick football as his primary sport, you name it, the Browns just can't win. And to make matters worse, it looks like they should have left Brady Quinn sitting in the draft room.

Mangini might do some hocus-pocus and keep his job. If he does, job number one after the season is to head to Home Depot 'cause everybody in Cleveland needs to be issued a shovel to help clean up this poop.

***

If you've got some names to add to the Hot Seat list, feel free to leave your observations.

NO RUSH TO JUDGEMENT

2009-10-12T19:42:00.003-04:00

You know things are bad in Oakland when Ryan Leaf plans on dressing as JaMarcus Russell for Halloween.

Okay, I don't know Leaf's trick or treat plans but I think it's safe to say he can put the aspirin bottle away for good, secure in knowing he's off the hook for being considered the worst quarterback taken with a first-round top five pick. Leaf was selected No. 2 in 1998, right behind a guy named Peyton Manning. I wouldn't be surprised if Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay wakes up in a cold sweat from time to time, thinking of what might have been.

Congressman Heath Shuler, a No. 3 first-round pick, we haven't forgotten about you either.

Russell, Leaf and Shuler have one thing in common. They held out, missing valuable time in training camp before signing big contracts.

All one really needs to know about Russell's ability at this point is when losing big to the New York Giants on Sunday, Russell still wasn't allowed to air it out. The Raiders lost 44-7 and Russell was 8 of 13 for 100 yards. He also lost three fumbles and was sacked six times.

The Raiders still owe him around 30 million dollars and the plain, awful truth is, JaMarcus Russell has been masquerading as an NFL quarterback since being drafted No. 1 in 2007. For his career, he'scompleted only 51.4 percent of his passes.

Granted, much like Jason Campbell of Washington, Russell in his short career has had instability at the head coaching position and different schemes to master. Not exactly the ideal learning environment. He's also had to deal with a shortage of talent at the wide reciever spot. The likes of Jerry Porter, Ronald Curry and an aging Javon Walker wouldn't guarantee you a sandlot championship.

But there is a lot that falls on Russell's shoulders. He's not in the kind of shape needed to play the position effectively. He needs to check into the film room before dawn and leave long after the Northern California sun has set. His footwork needs to get better and he should throw, and throw and throw everyday in practice.

This isn't Madden. This is the real NFL where the opposing forces move and react with amazing quickness and skill. So no one is rushing to judgement when it's said that JaMarcus Russell stinks as a quarterback right now.

The interesting part will be to see where he takes it from here. He can ride off into the sunset with his millions and not look back, or he can accept the challenge of doing what it takes to become a legitimate NFL quarterback.

QUICK HITS

2009-10-06T20:59:00.004-04:00

QUICK HITS

NOT HELPING YOURSELF...

When asked by a young female reporter for his reaction to remarks that he should step down as Florida State's Head Football Coach, Bobby Bowden replied in Neanderthal fashion. "I have no comment on that, whatsoever." Addressing the other assembled media, Bowden continued. "Anybody got any questions besides her?" (pregnant pause) "Just like a woman."

Bobby, that seat just got a lot hotter.

CHARGING THE WRONG DIRECTION...

Is it me or do the San Diego Chargers seem to have lost their mojo ever since Marty Schottenheimer was shown the door. Looks like the toughness went with him. It wasn't that long ago that LaDainian Tomlinson was one of the most feared, multi-dimensional runningbacks in the game. Now, he can barely stay on the field and appears a distant memory of his former self.

With the talent they have, the Chargers should be running away with the AFC West. Instead, they're 2-2 and one of those victories, just barely, was against Oakland.

This has become the International Team of Mystery.

"Oh, Behave!"

I'VE NEVER BEEN TO CLEVELAND...

And apparantly Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards isn't trying to make it home either. Not getting hit enough on the field, Edwards allegedly assaulted a man outside a Cleveland nightclub. Not just any man either. Edwards picked on promoter Edward Givens, a friend of LeBron James. That's akin to smacking around one of Tony Soprano's crew. Luckily for Edwards, who's alleged punch is now being investigated by the NFL, James' immediate response was to call him "childish".

Oh, and this happened Sunday night after the Browns lost to Cincinnati 23-20 in overtime. Edwards was held to zero receptions for the first time in his career. Who goes clubbing on a Sunday night! Perhaps time would have been better spent watching game film.

I do love the outfit though.

NORTH SIDE SHENANIGANS

2009-09-22T21:28:00.002-04:00

So Milton Bradley went ahead and finally did it.

A puzzling personality that seasons ago crossed over to the dark side, Bradley committed the ultimate sin by verbally observing what die-hard Cub fans have know for a long time. There is a reason this team hasn't won a World Series in years. The message just happened to come from a guy viewed as a bum.

None of Bradley's teammates protested when VP/GM Jim Hendry informed them of his decision. He never really fit in and trying to replace the popular and versatile Mark DeRosa was a tall order ill suited for Bradley's fragile makeup. But to say Hendry shouldn't have expected bumps along Bradley road is akin to being shocked when a chain smoker gets diagnosed with cancer. Look at the resume: 10 injury plagued seasons in the majors, seven different teams. Not exactly the definition of stability.

So now the Cubs will pray there's truth to the adage of "There's a sucker born every minute" and Bradley will find his way onto another major league roster next season, lessening the blow of the 21 million dollars still owed to him.

A common problem in sports seduced the Cubs in signing Bradley in the first place.

Potential.

The Cubs were drawn to Bradley's problem free 2008 season with the Texas Rangers in which he batted .321, hit 22 homeruns and knocked in 77 runs. Add those numbers to a lineup of Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez and on paper, the Cubs, with a strong starting pitching rotation, were penciled in to make a World Series appearance for 2009.

Maybe there is a curse.

Or maybe, just maybe, crap happens (feel free to insert the word I really wanted to use). Soriano's bat reflected the economy, Ramirez got hurt and missed a vital chunk of the season and the pitching staff got rocked. And oh yeah, Bradley started off cold and stayed cold, which meant his temperment heated up with each production-less at bat, forcing manager Lou Piniella to seek alternatives at times in the lineup. When Bradley did find his stroke, it was too late. Too late to win over Cub fans and too late to impress his teammates who had grown tired of all the antics and excuses.

To lay all of the Cubs troubles this season on Bradley would be kicking a man while he's down. Tempting, I know. But there are other factors. Piniella's opening day decision to give the closer job to Kevin Gregg and not Carlos Marmol resulted in numerous blown saves. And when Soriano's bat went and pretty much stayed south, not finding a spot for a hot hitting Jake Fox had fans shaking their heads as well. Perhaps Piniella should have taken a cue from Detroit Tigers' skipper Jim Leyland who sat outfielder Magglio Ordonez when he couldn't buy a hit with the 14 million dollars being paid to him.

As for Hendry, clearly what was he thinking? There were other options available besides Bradley. Raul Ibanez was there for the taking before the Phillies scooped him up. And how could the Cubs allow division rival St. Louis to pluck Matt Holliday away from the Oakland A's without recognizing what a solidifying force he could have been? A consumate professional, there are no skeletons in Holliday's closet.

One thing die hard Cub fans have gotten used to is this expression: "Wait 'til next year".

Hopefully the only shenanigans the Cubs will have in their future is when someone feels nostalgic and decides to break out the Milton Bradley board game.

"EASE HIS PAIN"

2009-09-11T20:24:00.012-04:00

The Messiah has apparently landed in Memphis and he'll be wearing a Grizzlies uniform. It's written and believed he'll bring never before seen crowds to their feet, extolling his virtues and forgiving his shortcomings.

Allen Iverson twitted to the masses that "God chose Memphis as the place that I will continue my career".

If I were Iverson I'd consider going to church more often because in NBA circles, landing in Memphis is more like "God has exiled" the scoring machine into oblivion, never to be seen again except for those who've opted for the NBA package on DirecTV.

Make no mistake, this is the same Iverson that put the Sixers back on the map, leading them to an NBA Final appearance. This is the same Iverson that wore out his welcome in Philly, resulting in a Rocky Mountain High destination where for the first time in his career, the term "second option" applied.

Denver smiled like they stole something when Detroit Pistons general manager Joe Dumars all too willingly gave up on point guard Chauncey Billups and his ballooning contract in exchange for the expiring one of Iverson.

The switch worked magic in Denver as Billups brought steadiness and control to a Nuggets lineup, allowing All-Star forward Carmello Anthony to better showcase his skills.

In Detroit, a team known for its toughness, mental fortitude and unselfishness, all of a sudden looked like a disoriented puzzle with few pieces fitting together. One and done head coach Michael Curry was inexperienced to handle a

Iverson - Richard Hamilton rotation situation which contributed to a team that lost its way.

After the season was done, (which judging by the product on the floor was sometime in mid-March), Iverson was not resigned and even occasional hothead Rasheed Wallace couldn't wait to vacate the Palace.

While a member of the Pistons, worse than Talking about practice was trying to fit into an offensive scheme designed to share the ball. Iverson remarked after one game, "I've never been on a team where so many guys have plays."

The Detroit experience behind him, Iverson repeatedly uttered he'd rather retire than be forced to accept a role of coming off a team's bench. With the days of summer beginning to get shorter, it looked like the sun might set on Iverson's proclamation.

The Memphis Grizzlies management must have heard The Voice from the movie Field of Dreams... "Ease His Pain... Ease His Pain". With much fanfare, they signed the 10 time NBA All-Star to a one year deal, thus handing him the guitar to the city.

So after every team in the league with a pulse passed on the services of the career 27.1 points per game performer, Iverson declared upon signing that this will be a season to remember.

"This year for me is so personal," Iverson said. "It's basically going to be my rookie season again. It hurts, but I turn the TV on, I read the paper, I listen to some of the things people say about me having the season that I had last year and me losing a step, things like that. They're trying to put me in a rocking chair already."

For the Grizzlies, the Answer is simple. Season ticket sales have undergone their biggest boom in franchise history and number three jerseys are flying off store shelves.

Memphis is not just for Blues and barbecue anymore. The Grizzlies will now be electrifying while posting numbers in the loss column.

TOUGH AS NAILS

2009-02-27T12:48:00.016-05:00

I'm no home improvement expert but I know a nail when I see one.

Used to lock things down, a 6-1, 173 pound nail named Norm Van Lier passed away Thursday. He was 61. The former Chicago Bull partnered with Jerry Sloan in the early '70s to form the toughest defensive backcourt in NBA history.

Before kids started growing like beanstalks, the NBA had its share of tough little men in the 7os. Calvin Murphy, Nate "Tiny" Archibald and Gail Goodrich were a handful. While those players exhibited outstanding offensive skills, Van Lier was the hard-nosed defensive specialist that cast a giant shadow. Opposing guards literally hated going up against Van Lier and Sloan. They not only shut down players, they often left a mark and plenty of ill feelings.

Van Lier didn't care what size the challenge was. He'd try to run through a pick set by 6-11 Bob Lanier just as much as he would if it was Jerry West. The most famous graduate from Saint Francis of Loretto University in Pennsylvania was fearless, earning the nickname "Stormin' Norman."

A three-time all-star, Van Lier shot a paltry .414 from the floor, but he wasn't in the lineup to knock down jumpers. For that, Dick Motta's Bulls had Bob "Butterbean" Love and Chet "The Jet" Walker in the frontcourt. Center Tom Boerwinkle was there to provide a presence in the middle and run picks through. Sloan would get an occasional key basket but mostly, he and Van Lier specialized in frustration. That Bulls tandem never achieved the greatness of the Michael Jordan era, their playoff runs seemingly always getting derailed by the Los Angeles Lakers.

Van Lier survived in an period where there was no place for the faint of heart and a little man had to possess the biggest beat of all in order to make it.

Continuing a sad day for the Bulls, Johnny "Red" Kerr also left this world at age 76, after battling prostate cancer. Kerr was the franchise's first head coach and received NBA Coach of the Year honors for leading the Bulls to the playoffs in the inaugural 1966-67 season. Due to his declining health, the Bulls moved up a ceremony in his honor earlier this month, unveiling a statue of Kerr at the United Center. Kerr, a native Chicagoan, was a pivotal fixture in Bulls lore, serving as an avid announcer for numerous years. On hand for his emotional ceremony among others were Jordan an Scottie Pippen.

Jordan called Kerr “an inspiration to me as a basketball player and as a person,” while Pippen added Kerr "makes Chicago Bulls basketball what it is."

The 6-9 Kerr knew his way around a gym, having played 12 seasons (1954-1966) in the NBA for the Syracuse Nationals, Philadelphia 76ers and the Baltimore Bullets. From 1954 to 1965, the three-time NBA All-Star appeared in a then-NBA record 844 consecutive games.

A lot of Chicagoans shed tears of remembrance this week, recognizing two special people who gave their all.

Heaven enjoyed a good draft Thursday, having picked up a tough as nails point guard and a space eating big man.

The Tiger Heard 'Round The World

2009-02-25T13:16:00.014-05:00

I knew it would be like this.

The official beginning of the Tiger Woods tour. NBC had promos on the air the day after the Great One announced he was coming back to play. Earlier this morning, the Golf Channel had a countdown to tee off clock on the television screen.

Within a week on sports radio and tv, I've heard from just about anybody who's come into contact with Tiger. I'm rather shocked we haven't checked in with the bathroom attendant at Dove Mountain in Marana, Arizona where the WGC-Accenture Match Play event is being held.

"Mr. Woods flushed once, closed the stall and washed his hands for at least two minutes. Judging by his grip on the soap, I'd say he looks ready to play."

Whew, I love Tiger as much as the next guy but his return is being treated like the resurrection. Playing in the desert this week though, I'd suggest he avoid the boulders. Golf analysts have broken down every aspect of every Tiger swing, all the way back to his childhood appearance on the Merv Griffin Show.

It was refreshing this morning at work when one of our producers asked what was the big story of the day. I told her "Tiger is back, baby!" (If someone from human resources is reading this, I actually said "ma'am" and not "baby".) But that same producer followed up with, "Oh, the Tigers are playing in spring training?" I tried to explain but she seemed bored after I continued to explain for a good five minutes the historical significance of today. "You'll want to remember where you were when Tiger teed off at 2:10," I finally frantically said, walking away frustrated.

Hell, this has gotten so much press, I wouldn't be surprised if Al-Qaeda is taking the day off.

Having heard also from all the medical experts for a week, I feel confident I can perform re-constructive knee surgery if called upon, and I didn't even have to stay at a Holiday Inn.

I'm in a suburb of Detroit... looking live right now. Darn the weather looks great in Arizona. The announcer on tv just informed me that it's just "A matter of moments."

Oh, oh, oh! There's a shot of Tiger! He's wearing a powder blue golf shirt that I can't afford and a white, Nike Tiger Woods golf hat. I can find funds for that. His caddie Steve Williams is right behind him as they're on the first tee. They just announced his name... "Tiger Woods." The gallery goes wild, as if they've just won a car from Oprah. I swear he looks 12 feet tall! He is in great shape though. He's got his club... looking down the fairway... he backs away... back at address... he swings... nice and smooth ... the ball is in the fairway in "great shape."

His opponent Brendan Jones is about to hit... wonderful... I've got time to go grab that beer I forgot to get out of the fridge.

I'm back... Tiger's second shot is on the green, moving toward the hole... it stops about five feet away.

Jones' third shot is now three feet out.

Tiger is sizing up his birdie putt. It's rolling... rolling... 1 up Tiger.

What am I doing writing! I've gotta go.

Believe the hype... TIGER WOODS IS BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jeter Doesn't Rhyme With Cheater

2009-02-23T17:01:00.022-05:00

Alex Rodriguez may arguably be baseball's best overall player (see Albert Pujols just to make sure) but the face of the game rests solely on the shoulders of New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter.

He has carried the mantle of the game with pride, much like a quiet Yankee of years past, Joe DiMaggio. Jeter has been knowledgeable enough to understand that the game is larger than the parts that fit in it.

I recall an interview on 60 Minutes years back where Jeter always referred to Yankees owner George Steinbrenner as "Mr. Steinbrenner." He did so even as the Boss was highly critical of his rising star's magnetic effect on beautiful women and the late nights Jeter was keeping. Just as he does when facing a 3-2 count, Jeter calmly told everyone that was just a part of his life. A part he knew how to control. Nothing worth losing sleep over because everything took a back seat to being a member of the hallowed New York Yankees.

The Yankees were Jeter's dream club as he grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. At eight years old he announced to his parents he'd be wearing pinstripes one day. It was hard work and dedication from that moment on. No cutting corners. His parents instilled that doctrine and made sure their son followed through. He had to earn his way. Growing up in a loving home, Jeter learned how to deal with the ignorance of outsiders who taunted his heritage of having a white mother and black father.

When my son turned 11 he became a one person PR firm, campaigning daily for his first cell phone. A baseball player of promise himself, I made my son a deal. I handed him Jeter's autobiography "The Life You Imagine: Life Lessons for Achieving Your Dreams," with the understanding he had to read the book in order to get his phone. I had thumbed through a few chapters while at the bookstore. I was extremely impressed and furthermore, I trusted Derek Jeter.

My son balked at first about the condition set forth. "Why do I have to read this?" It was a deal breaker for me. Don't read it, no phone. He started out slow but after a couple of weeks he got into it. He read the messages Jeter's parents had preached to him. Some where the same my wife and I were pounding in his head: "Set high goals, don't be afraid to fail, find role models and think before you act." The book is filled with model examples for becoming a better person, realizing your potential and understanding your role in society.

As Rodriguez was facing public scrutiny by admitting his steroid use, sitting off to the side in the front row with other teammates, was the Yankees captain, Derek Jeter. "We're here to support him through it," Jeter said. "I don't condone what he did... And I think at this point now, it's our jobs to try to help him be as comfortable as he can on the field and try to move past this."

When a star as large as Rodriguez's burns dimmer over an issue that has placed a dark cloud over the American pastime, it's hard to stop the speculation train from rumbling down the tracks. And that becomes the tough part for the players who achieved their dream through hard work and playing by the rules.

"One thing that is irritating and it really upsets me a lot is when you hear everybody say, 'It was the steroid era. Everybody was doing it.' You know, that's not true. Everybody was not doing it," Jeter said last week. He added, "I think it sends the wrong message to fans, to baseball fans; I think it sends the wrong message to kids, saying that everybody was doing it, because that's just not the truth."

The problem is a number of big name stars have looked people right in the eye and lied. There is something about Derek Jeter though that is genuine. Baseball knows it, Madison Avenue knows it and those who play the game know it.

"Baseball would fold if Derek Jeter came out and said he did steroids," former Yanks teammate and pitcher David Wells said. "He's just such a good individual. He's a model citizen of Major League Baseball and probably a good role model for the world. That's the one guy it would surprise the hell out of me if he did it."

So, while sports writers and fans cast a raised eyebrow over anyone these days who say they never used "roids", the man who could very easily be Major League Baseball's poster image, should be taken at his word.

(By-the-way, my son got his phone.)

Even Former Bad Boys Deserve A Chance

2009-02-22T13:05:00.019-05:00

Let me start by saying I'm from Chicago.

Only the passage of time has allowed me to discard my ill feelings toward a couple of bullies, gangsters, thugs - Bad Boys!

And even though I know them personally now, there are times when I just want to throw Bill Laimbeer and Rick Mahorn an elbow just to make amends for roughing up my Michael Jordan led Bulls back in the day. I quickly think better of the idea because both Laimbeer and Mahorn, though mellowed, are still behemoths.

After achieving success as members of the Detroit Pistons with two championship rings, Laimbeer and Mahorn have reigned supreme, as head coach and assistant respectively, for three WNBA championships with the Detroit Shock. And yet, I find it shocking that the NBA has not come a calling. In fact, there appears to be this ridiculous notion that coaching women does not translate into coaching men. Another WNBA coach, Michael Cooper of the Los Angeles Sparks, was tough as nails when he hit the floor for the Los Angeles Lakers. Cooper also has a WNBA title under his belt.

I hardly think the X&O's are that much different from the men's game to the women's game. So why is it NBA executives that Laimbeer doesn't get a shot at coaching in a league where he demonstrated his toughness night after night?

Ah, a trip down memory lane... game 3 of the1987 Eastern Conference Finals. Laimbeer and Larry Bird hook up, both ejected. Same series, game 5, Robert Parish punches Laimbeer in the face. Michael Jordan took a swing at Laimbeer in game 3 of the '88 Eastern Conference Semifinals and in 1990, Charles Barkley and Laimbeer tussled during a regular season game. He even frustrated Isiah Thomas so much during a team practice that Thomas took a swing. There was little Laimbeer wouldn't do to put his team in a position to win.

So why won't the NBA give Laimbeer a chance? Owners certainly have a lot of explaining to do especially when you look at the current landscape of coaches parading up and down the sidelines with little or no previous head coaching experience. Lets look at Washington, Chicago, Toronto, Oklahoma City, Sacramento and Detroit. As of this writing their combined record is 112 wins, 224 losses.

The Wizards think so much of Ed Tapscott that they don't even post his bio when you click his name on their website. It's as if he fell out of the sky. And perhaps to make the organization feel better, they list the team's record at 12-33 on his page. It's actually 12-43.

This is what it says on the Sacramento Kings (12-45) website, under Kenny Natt's bio: "Natt, who played for the Kansas City Kings in 1984-85, is re-united with then teammate and current Sacramento King's Head Coach Reggie Theus." Hmmm. Wasn't Theus fired in mid December and replaced by Natt on an interim basis? Someone should tell the Kings who's running the show. In terms of prior head coaching experience, Natt did coach the Cape Breton Breakers in the Canadian-based National Basketball League.

Oklahoma City's (13-43) official website has no info on head coach Scott Brooks. Vinny Del Negro, zero prior head coaching experience, is leading the Chicago Bulls (25-31). To where, only time will tell. For the Pistons (27-26), there are nights when it's obvious this is Michael Curry's first go round of calling the shots.

At least Jay Triano of the Toronto Raptors (22-36) spent six years as head coach of the Canadian men's national team.

None of these fine men mentioned have anywhere near a resume that stacks up against Laimbeer's.

I can only conclude that NBA executives deem unworthy and look down upon the achievements of coaches who happen to exhibit ability while coaching women. It's as if they're grading on a curve.

The next time a head coaching job opens in the NBA, I hope someone has the courage and foresight to give Laimbeer a serious look. Time heals all wounds. He's paid his dues to society for being such a roughneck in the paint when he played.

Having said all these nice things about Laimbeer, excuse this Bulls fan while I go wash my mouth out.

Brother, Can You Spare A Dime?

2009-02-21T15:26:00.013-05:00

At this point in my life I'm very certain I can make this prediction. No one is going to offer me 25 million dollars for one year of work. I do play the Mega Millions lottery game and should I ever get that lucky, it really wouldn't count as working, now would it?

In this economy, hell, any economy, even if grocery stores were allowing you to fill a cart up for free for a year, even if the bank said you don't have to pay your mortgage for five years, even if your credit card debt was at zero again, even if the IRS said "My bad", even if hookers were giving it away - 25 million dollars for one year of work is a helluva lot of money!

Unless you're Manny Ramirez.

Without question, Ramirez is one of the best hitters of the modern era not linked to a banned substance. He's put together 16 solid seasons in the big leagues, amassing 527 home runs, a .314 batting average and two World Series rings with the Boston Red Sox before he wore out his welcome, acquiring the label "That's just Manny being Manny." After seven and a half seasons with the Red Sox, Ramirez was dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season and put up numbers that registered on the baseball Richter scale. In 53 games Ramirez blasted 17 homers, produced 53 RBIs and batted a blistering .396. Oh, and don't let me forget to add a freakish .743 slugging percentage. That was more like "Manny being Hercules." Needless to say, Dodger stadium and the Hollywood crowd embraced all things Manny as he led the club to the National League Championship Series.

Ramirez also proved all his Red Sox detractors wrong by being a positive influence in the Dodger dugout for the organization's talented core of youngsters in Matt Kemp, James Loney and Andre Ethier.

With the start of spring training, Ramirez was wherever "Manny being Manny" goes to relax. It certainly wasn't anywhere near the Dodgers' training facility in Glendale, Arizona.

Ramirez is currently a free agent, the most talented prize still without a home. The only obstacle to Ramirez being in camp right now is his perceived worth. At the end of last season, Ramirez's agent Scott Boras let everyone know his prized possession was seeking a four-year deal worth 100 million dollars. If Ramirez was 28 or 32 years old, there might have been a line for his services. But Ramirez will turn 37 in May and sooner or later, that bat is going to start feeling a bit heavy.

In November of '08, the Dodgers offered a guaranteed 45 million for two years. It included an option for a third year that could have increased the contract's total value to 60 million. Ramirez whiffed at the offer and when there were no other takers, the Dodgers came back with 25 million for one year. Boras called the offer a "suggestion" and said Ramirez would pass, indicating the Dodgers were playing a dangerous game because another team could counter at any moment with a more attractive deal.

Ramirez is still unsigned.

When he broke into the majors in 1993 with the Cleveland Indians, Ramirez earned 109 thousand dollars. Back then he was just "Manny trying to make a living Manny."

The Dodgers are maintaining they're willing to stand pat with their current lineup, having also passed on the chance to sign former free agents Bobby Abreu (Angels) and Adam Dunn (Nationals).

As manager Joe Torre watched his players in camp during the first week, it wasn't lost on him that the most valuable piece of his team down the stretch last season was absent. "I don't even want to think of the fact that he's not a Dodger," Torre said. "I just don't want to think that way. The fact that I know he enjoyed himself here last year and the fact that we want him back, hopefully, we can find a way to do it."

In this economy, it's awfully nice to be wanted. Even if it's a mere twenty-five million dollars for a future Hall of Famer.

Mr. Woods, Welcome Back. We've Missed You

2009-02-20T13:06:00.014-05:00

If one of the golfers participating in the first round of the Northern Trust Open backed away from a putt yesterday, it was understandable.

Despite the serene setting of Pacific Palisades, California, no doubt the field heard the roar that rode a wave all the way from Windermere, Florida. Simply put, the Freddy Krueger of golf - Tiger Woods - announced he was coming back next week to defend his title at the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship.

Woods is the nightmare players see in their sleep. He's a wake up call that they better be working on their game because normal won't cut it when he's on the prowl. Woods is a single entity, a man who shrewdly controls his image. And yet, wherever Tiger goes, it's as if the entourage of the "Can You Hear Me Now" guy is behind him.

When play begins next Wednesday, it will end 254 days of Tiger-less golf. In between that time, the Golf Channel will more than likely give us nearly around the clock Tiger coverage. Coming off re-constructive knee surgery, the golfing world is anxious to see if rust and a new baby have taken their toll.

Tiger's absence has been great for lessor names to sneak into the headlines and grab a share of tournament dollars but there's no question having the world's number one back will be golf's version of an economic stimulus package.

"I think it's awesome," golfer Kenny Perry said. "The economy is down. We need something to boost us up. And there's going to be a gazillion reporters there, so it will be fun to be around. That place (Tucson) is going to come to life."

It will be the shot in the arm the PGA tour has been sorely missing since the excitement of Woods' US Open victory and the joy of a U-S Ryder Cup victory.

Team Tiger is a well oiled machine too. Alex Rodriguez paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for a public relations team that may or may not have earned their money. Woods merely channeled his impending announcement through Mark O'Meara, John Cook and caddie Steve Williams.

Already though, you have to feel sorry for Brendan Jones of Australia. Unless someone withdraws before next Wednesday, he'll be the March Madness version of a 16 seed versus a one. Tall order to face a hungry Tiger that's ready to prove something to the world.

"I think he'll be ready to rock," Perry said. "When he comes back, he's always raring to go. He must be spittin' nails right now. I think he'll be better than ever. He'll probably kick our butts like crazy. Let's face it. People play differently when they're playing him."

Can you hear me now?

NBA Needs To Reserve A Space For Sweet Lou

2009-02-18T20:36:00.009-05:00

Sweet Lou

The NBA and Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame needs to erase an air ball hovering out there for both organizations.

They're supposed to reward individuals for a body of work dedicated to a game that continues to inspire greatness. But one name is sadly lacking from the list.

Why isn't Lou Hudson a card carrying member?

Sweet Lou as he was known, had the numbers and perhaps even more impressive, he was a class act and fierce competitor during his playing days. It's that same competitiveness that has served Hudson well as he battles to recover from a stroke suffered a couple of years ago.

A graduate of the University of Minnesota, Hudson enjoyed a 13-year run in the NBA, averaging 20.2 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. He was a six-time NBA All-Star and had nine playoff appearances.

In college, Hudson broke his right hand during his senior year and rather than sit out, continued to play the remainder of the season left handed. He even exploded for 30 points one night shooting with his other hand. Hudson's college totals were equally impressive, 20.4 points and 8.9 rebounds a game. Those stellar numbers resulted in Hudson being the 4th pick in the first round of the 1966 NBA draft by the St. Louis Hawks. He proved that drafting him high was a good investment by averaging 18.4 points in his rookie year, being named to the All-Rookie team. Talk about dedication? The following season Hudson was called to serve in the military and didn't return to the team until the 1968-'69 season.

With the franchise now in Atlanta, Hudson continued his steady play, surrounded by the likes of Walt Bellamy and Joe Caldwell. Then came 1970 and the Hawks first round selection of one Pete Maravich. The Hawks unloaded the brinks truck for "Pistol Pete," a condition that veteran Caldwell couldn't live with since the Hawks were less than interested in rewarding not only himself for his outstanding play, but for Hudson and Bellamy as well.

It was a tense time for the Hawks as Caldwell bolted for the ABA. Hudson, on the other hand, always level headed and easy to get along with, welcomed Maravich and his flashy game. Together they formed one of the deadliest duo's in the league. During Maravich's rookie season, Hudson led the team in scoring at 26.8 ppg. Maravich was right on his heels at 23.2.

During the 1971-'72 season, Hudson stepped forward when Maravich could manage only 66 regular season games due to injury. Sweet Lou blistered the nets for 24.7 ppg on .503 shooting from the floor.

I was actually shocked to discover that Hudson at the very least is not a member of the Naismith Hall of Fame. The omission is really inexcusable. Not taking a thing away from the stellar performers already inducted, but Hudson definitely belongs.

No question Hudson's performance in Atlanta was overshadowed by the arrival of Maravich and the fact that the Hawks could never make a serious run in the playoffs, never reaching the finals.

Now in a battle to regain total motor function after a stroke in 2005, Hudson is also out in front raising awareness about the No. 3 killer in the nation and the leading cause of long-term disability.

It should be clear to someone that Hudson, who ranks 56th on the All-Time scoring list in the NBA, deserves a coveted spot in the Hall of Fame. Sweet Lou was a winner on the court and continued to give back by being a high school basketball coach in Utah and does so now by trying to help others. It would be a grand gesture to finally see him rewarded by a game he served so well.

Is Zach Randolph Gonna Have To Choke A ...

2009-02-18T18:33:00.002-05:00

Late in the first quarter of Tuesday's game against the Phoenix Suns, Zach Randolph must have woken up and realized he was a member of the Los Angeles Clippers. That's when the nightmare set in and a panicked Randolph lashed out and struck Suns reserve forward Louis Amundson with what amounted to a left-handed bitch slap. Randolph, his 22 points per game average and 10.7 rebounds a contest, was excused for the night, leaving his teammates to endure a 140-100 blowout. That was a bad beat for even a Clippers team.

Did somebody inform Randolph that All-Star weekend was over? There were no parties to go to that night. Randolph probably does have a short fuse this season. He escaped what was a zoo in New York last season, only to be sent into exile with the Clippers. Come on, right now... name three Clippers' players? And for a bonus, why not pull a rabbit from the hat and name one key reserve. Okay, that's more copy already than the Clippers warrant but maybe, just maybe Randolph was trying to do the Suns a favor by allowing them to showcase their bench.

Remember Louis Amundson? I watch my fair share of NBA ball and can honestly say I've never heard of the third-year forward before this incident. Wow... I knew the Suns weren't having the best of seasons but Louis Amundson? Comedian Louis Anderson I know. The Suns Amundson is a 6-9 forward who made his mark at Nevada-Las Vegas. This season he's averaging just under 10 minutes a game and is shooting .521 from the field. He played over twenty minutes in the win against the Clippers, matching his season and career high point total of 13 points. He also hauled down eight rebounds.

Forget Amar'e Stoudemire. Amundson could be the man. Need proof? He torched the Boston Celtics as well in January for 13 points in a 104-87 loss. I'm really going to have to start watching my Directv NBA package more.