Nascar driver Tony Stewart and Houston Astros' 1B Lance Berkman
Thanks to loyal reader Lance Uppercut for the suggestion.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Thursday, April 16, 2009
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Finals
Starting Five
Arizona
G- Mike Bibby
G-Gilbert Arenas
G-Jason Terry
F-Andre Iguodala
C-Channing Frye
UConn
G- Ben Gordon
G- Ray Allen
F- Rudy Gay
F- Caron Butler
C- Emeka Okafor
Bench
Richard Hamilton, Charlie Villanueva, Josh Boone, Hilton Armstrong, Jake Voskuhl, Kevin Ollie, Donyell Marshall, Kevin Ollie
Game Setup
This turns out to be a great matchup for a number of reasons.
--Arizona was 0-3 all time against UConn.
--UConn's shooting guards were the best in the tournament.
--Arizona's point guards were the best in the tournament.
Game Summary
Arizona jumped out to an early lead only to see UConn take a 40-37 lead into the half. With just over a minute left, Arizona led 78-74. Ray Allen hit a 3 on the next trip and Charlie Villanueva fouled Mike Bibby with 16 seconds left. Bibby hit the front end of a one-and-one but missed the second.
After two backscreens from Emeka Okafor and Rudy Gay, Ben Gordon fired a three which was off the mark. Richard Hamilton, however, rebounded the miss and hit a fallaway jumper in the lane (very reminiscent of this play) to send the game into OT.
In overtime, Caron Butler and Jason Terry traded jumpers.
With the score tied at 86, the Wildcats had the ball with 0:14 left in OT. The game would come down to Terry-Bibby-Arenas-Jefferson-Iguodala against Gordon-Villanueva-Gay-Butler-Okafor.
Arenas brings the ball past half court... 0:12, 0:11, 0:10...
Jefferson sets a high ball screen... 0:09, 0:08, 0:07...
Arenas drives right, Caron Butler steps off Iguodala to double... 0:06, 0:05..
Arenas dishes to Iguodala. Gordon helps leaving Jason Terry wide open ... 0:04, 0:03..
Iguodala hits Terry 17-feet from the bucket on the left baseline. Terry takes the shot and buries it. 0:00.
Arizona wins!!! The Vegas crowd is beside itself, getting all it paid for and more.
Final Score
(2) Arizona 88, (1) UConn 86 (OT)
All-Tournament Team
G- Jason Terry
G- Ray Allen
F- Andre Iguodala
F- Carmelo Anthony
C- Tim Duncan (Tournament MVP)
Arizona
G- Mike Bibby
G-Gilbert Arenas
G-Jason Terry
F-Andre Iguodala
C-Channing Frye
UConn
G- Ben Gordon
G- Ray Allen
F- Rudy Gay
F- Caron Butler
C- Emeka Okafor
Bench
Arizona
Richard Jefferson, Luke Walton, Jerryd Bayless, Hassan Adams
UConn
Richard Hamilton, Charlie Villanueva, Josh Boone, Hilton Armstrong, Jake Voskuhl, Kevin Ollie, Donyell Marshall, Kevin Ollie
Game Setup
This turns out to be a great matchup for a number of reasons.
--Arizona was 0-3 all time against UConn.
--UConn's shooting guards were the best in the tournament.
--Arizona's point guards were the best in the tournament.
--Both teams were best playing with a smaller lineup. At times, each team played with four guards on the floor, a dynamic not often seen.
Game Summary
Arizona jumped out to an early lead only to see UConn take a 40-37 lead into the half. With just over a minute left, Arizona led 78-74. Ray Allen hit a 3 on the next trip and Charlie Villanueva fouled Mike Bibby with 16 seconds left. Bibby hit the front end of a one-and-one but missed the second.
After two backscreens from Emeka Okafor and Rudy Gay, Ben Gordon fired a three which was off the mark. Richard Hamilton, however, rebounded the miss and hit a fallaway jumper in the lane (very reminiscent of this play) to send the game into OT.
In overtime, Caron Butler and Jason Terry traded jumpers.
With the score tied at 86, the Wildcats had the ball with 0:14 left in OT. The game would come down to Terry-Bibby-Arenas-Jefferson-Iguodala against Gordon-Villanueva-Gay-Butler-Okafor.
Arenas brings the ball past half court... 0:12, 0:11, 0:10...
Jefferson sets a high ball screen... 0:09, 0:08, 0:07...
Arenas drives right, Caron Butler steps off Iguodala to double... 0:06, 0:05..
Arenas dishes to Iguodala. Gordon helps leaving Jason Terry wide open ... 0:04, 0:03..
Iguodala hits Terry 17-feet from the bucket on the left baseline. Terry takes the shot and buries it. 0:00.
Arizona wins!!! The Vegas crowd is beside itself, getting all it paid for and more.
Final Score
(2) Arizona 88, (1) UConn 86 (OT)
All-Tournament Team
G- Jason Terry
G- Ray Allen
F- Andre Iguodala
F- Carmelo Anthony
C- Tim Duncan (Tournament MVP)
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Final Four
(1) UConn 85, (1) North Carolina 72: Just another day at the office for the Huskies who appear as focused as can be. Game MVP: Emeka Okafor - 16 points, 14 rebounds, 5 blocks.
(2) Arizona 72, (2) Wake Forest 57: Wake's "Big 3" run out of fumes and go quietly into the Vegas night. Game MVP: Jason Terry - 18 points including five 3's, 4 assists.
Check back tomorrow morning to see which university takes the first annual Banter Tournament.
(2) Arizona 72, (2) Wake Forest 57: Wake's "Big 3" run out of fumes and go quietly into the Vegas night. Game MVP: Jason Terry - 18 points including five 3's, 4 assists.
Check back tomorrow morning to see which university takes the first annual Banter Tournament.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Elite 8
The cream of the crop rises to the top as only the 1's and 2's remain. Winners earn a ticket to the Final Four.
East Region
(1) North Carolina 81, (2) Florida 71: Florida puts up a valiant effort despite the fact their guards are clearly inferior to those of the Heels. Raymond Felton abuses Anthony Roberson and North Carolina is on it's way to Vegas (site of the Banter Final Four). Game MVP: Raymond Felton - 20 points, 13 assists.
Midwest Region
(1) UConn 103, (2) Kansas 100 (OT): An incredible end to end game decided on a buzzer-beating three by Ray Allen. Emeka Okafor blocks 13 shots. Mario Chalmers records 12 steals. A game few will forget anytime soon. Game MVP: Ray Allen - 32 points including seven 3's.
South Region
(2) Arizona 80, (1) Duke 64: As has been the case in recent memory, Duke puts up a stinker in a meaningful tournament game. Blue Devils not named J.J. miss 14 of 20 free throws, and Duke shoots 30% from the floor. The Wildcats assert their dominance in the transition game (24 fast break points). Game MVP: Mike Bibby - 18 points, 13 assists.
West Region
(2) Wake Forest 77, (1) UCLA 72: The Russell Westbrook-Chris Paul matchup lives up to the billing as each go for eight assists and four steals. Much to the dismay of the Bruins, Tim Duncan continues his torrid streak, and Darius Songalia hits a few clutch jumpers to seal the deal. Game MVP: Tim Duncan - 30 points, 15 rebounds.
East Region
(1) North Carolina 81, (2) Florida 71: Florida puts up a valiant effort despite the fact their guards are clearly inferior to those of the Heels. Raymond Felton abuses Anthony Roberson and North Carolina is on it's way to Vegas (site of the Banter Final Four). Game MVP: Raymond Felton - 20 points, 13 assists.
Midwest Region
(1) UConn 103, (2) Kansas 100 (OT): An incredible end to end game decided on a buzzer-beating three by Ray Allen. Emeka Okafor blocks 13 shots. Mario Chalmers records 12 steals. A game few will forget anytime soon. Game MVP: Ray Allen - 32 points including seven 3's.
South Region
(2) Arizona 80, (1) Duke 64: As has been the case in recent memory, Duke puts up a stinker in a meaningful tournament game. Blue Devils not named J.J. miss 14 of 20 free throws, and Duke shoots 30% from the floor. The Wildcats assert their dominance in the transition game (24 fast break points). Game MVP: Mike Bibby - 18 points, 13 assists.
West Region
(2) Wake Forest 77, (1) UCLA 72: The Russell Westbrook-Chris Paul matchup lives up to the billing as each go for eight assists and four steals. Much to the dismay of the Bruins, Tim Duncan continues his torrid streak, and Darius Songalia hits a few clutch jumpers to seal the deal. Game MVP: Tim Duncan - 30 points, 15 rebounds.
Monday, April 13, 2009
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Sweet 16
East Region
(1) North Carolina 70, (5) Ohio State 60: The Buckeyes successfully slow the pace of the game, but ultimately the superior skill of North Carolina leads to a victory. Game MVP: Rasheed Wallace - 17 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks, 1 technical.
(2) Florida 82, (3) Syracuse 64: With an average supporting cast, Carmelo Anthony can't carry the 'Cuse any further. Game MVP: Carmelo Anthony - 32 points, 10 rebounds.
Midwest Region
(1) UConn 95, (5) Illinois 65: An exhausted Deron Williams-led Illini squad proves to be little more than a speed bump for the Huskies. Another dominant performance from UConn. Game MVP: Rudy Gay - 26 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals.
(2) Kansas 84, (3) Georgia Tech 82 (OT): The best game of the weekend. The Yellow Jackets led by Chris Bosh give the Jayhawks all they can handle. After Thad Young fouls out late in regulation, Paul Pierce takes over. Game MVP: Paul Pierce - 25 points including 8 in OT.
South Region
(1) Duke 102, (4) LSU 71: The Tigers lack of guards catches up to them, and the Blue Devils show no mercy. Game MVP: Chris Duhon - 10 points, 14 assists.
(2) Arizona 75, (6) Marquette 59: Andre Iguodala proves his worth as he "holds" a depleted Dwyane Wade to 24 points. Game MVP: Gilbert Arenas - 18 points, 9 assists.
West Region
(1) UCLA 80, (5) Georgetown 49: The Bruins, recognizing how old the Hoyas are, run and up and down the court reminding fans of the Jim Harrell heyday of the early 90's. Hide the women and children because this one got ugly. Game MVP: Trevor Ariza - 20 points, 10 rebounds, 5 steals.
(2) Wake Forest , (3) Kentucky : The Wildcats match up decently with the Demon Deacons, but after resting for the better part of the second half in Round 1, Wake's "Big Three" combine for 65 points. Game MVP: Tim Duncan - 30 points, 12 rebounds.
(1) North Carolina 70, (5) Ohio State 60: The Buckeyes successfully slow the pace of the game, but ultimately the superior skill of North Carolina leads to a victory. Game MVP: Rasheed Wallace - 17 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks, 1 technical.
(2) Florida 82, (3) Syracuse 64: With an average supporting cast, Carmelo Anthony can't carry the 'Cuse any further. Game MVP: Carmelo Anthony - 32 points, 10 rebounds.
Midwest Region
(1) UConn 95, (5) Illinois 65: An exhausted Deron Williams-led Illini squad proves to be little more than a speed bump for the Huskies. Another dominant performance from UConn. Game MVP: Rudy Gay - 26 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, 4 steals.
(2) Kansas 84, (3) Georgia Tech 82 (OT): The best game of the weekend. The Yellow Jackets led by Chris Bosh give the Jayhawks all they can handle. After Thad Young fouls out late in regulation, Paul Pierce takes over. Game MVP: Paul Pierce - 25 points including 8 in OT.
South Region
(1) Duke 102, (4) LSU 71: The Tigers lack of guards catches up to them, and the Blue Devils show no mercy. Game MVP: Chris Duhon - 10 points, 14 assists.
(2) Arizona 75, (6) Marquette 59: Andre Iguodala proves his worth as he "holds" a depleted Dwyane Wade to 24 points. Game MVP: Gilbert Arenas - 18 points, 9 assists.
West Region
(1) UCLA 80, (5) Georgetown 49: The Bruins, recognizing how old the Hoyas are, run and up and down the court reminding fans of the Jim Harrell heyday of the early 90's. Hide the women and children because this one got ugly. Game MVP: Trevor Ariza - 20 points, 10 rebounds, 5 steals.
(2) Wake Forest , (3) Kentucky : The Wildcats match up decently with the Demon Deacons, but after resting for the better part of the second half in Round 1, Wake's "Big Three" combine for 65 points. Game MVP: Tim Duncan - 30 points, 12 rebounds.
Friday, April 10, 2009
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Round One
East Region
(1) North Carolina 88, (8) Washington 70: Nate Robinson and Brandon Roy keep the game close for the first half, but the depth of the Tar Heel bench becomes apparent early in the second half and North Carolina pulls away. Game MVP: Antawn Jamison - 28 points including 3 3-pointers.
(5) Ohio State 71, (4) Alabama 68: The Crimson Tide's lack of height allows Greg Oden and Kosta Koufos to have their way down low. Mike Conley is able to neutralize Mo Williams and Michael Redd scores at will. Gerald Wallace has a nice game (25 and 12), but it's not enough. Game MVP: Michael Redd - 32 points including 5 3-pointers.
(3) Syracuse 73, (6) USC 65: Carmelo Anthony thrives in NCAA Tournament-like formats (see 2003 NCAA Tournament and 2008 Olympics). Although his supporting cast here isn't spectacular, it's certainly enough to get by an overmatched Trojans squad. Game MVP: Carmelo Anthony - 35 points and 13 rebounds.
(2) Florida 84, (7) Oklahoma State 67: The Cowboys do not have the scorers to keep up with the run-n-gun Gators. This game gets out of hand early and the Gators are able rest their starters. Game MVP: Mike Miller - 19 points including 4 3-pointers.
Midwest Region
(1) UConn 101, (8) Oregon 75: The Ducks rely on strong guard play to win games. Unfortunately for them, the Huskies are the deepest team in this tournament, and they run Oregon out of the gym. Game MVP: Caron Butler - 24 points including 3 3-pointers.
(5) Illinois 80, (4) Memphis 76: Ultimately, the game comes down to Deron Williams vs. Derrick Rose. Williams carries the Illini on his back and hits some clutch threes down the stretch. Game MVP: Deron Williams - 34 points, 13 assists.
(3) Georgia Tech 84, (6) Villanova 56: This is a nightmare matchup for the Wildcats. They have no big men, and the Yellow Jackets can run with them. Plenty of rest for the regulars. Game MVP: Chris Bosh - 22 points, 17 rebounds.
(2) Kansas 90, (7) Arkansas 75: Joe Johnson keeps Paul Pierce at bay, but every other matchup goes the Wildcats' way, and the Razorbacks are sent home early. Game MVP: Kirk Hinrich - 20 points, 11 assists.
South Region
(1) Duke 80, (8) DePaul 61: The Blue Devils outclass the Blue Demons in every facet of the game. Again, more rest for the regulars. Game MVP: Carlos Boozer - 21 points, 14 rebounds.
(4) LSU 76, (5) California 74: This is my favorite first round matchup. Jason Kidd can have his way with LSU because the Tigers have a huge hole in the backcourt. The Tigers, though, possess the deepest frontcourt in the tournament. Anthony Randolph is forced to play point-forward and does an adequate enough job that the Tigers squeak out out a last-second victory. Game MVP: Shaq - 25 points, 18 rebounds.
(6) Marquette 109, (3) Texas 105 (3 OT): The first round's best individual matchup far surpasses all expectations. Both Kevin Durant and Dwyane Wade post triple doubles. In triple-OT, the Golden Eagles' sharpshooters, Steve Novak and Travis Diener, take the onus off Wade and hit a combined five 3's. A game that will be tough to forget. Game MVP: Dwyane Wade - 43 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds, 5 steals, 3 blocks.
(2) Arizona 88, (7) Maryland 65: An awful matchup for the Terps as the Wildcats play solid defense and Maryland struggles mightily to put the ball in the hoop. Game MVP: Andre Iguodala - 16 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists.
West Region
(1) UCLA 80, (8) UNLV 66: The Bruins double-team Shawn Marion every time he touches the ball and force his teammates to beat them, a strategy that works to perfection. Game MVP: Baron Davis - 25 points, 12 assists.
(5) Georgetown 55, (4) Michigan State 51: The dysfunctional Spartans display no offensive rhythm and Allen Iverson creates enough open shots for his teammates against the defense-averse Spartans that the Hoyas win a sloppy game. Game MVP: Allen Iverson - 16 points, 8 assists.
(3) Kentucky 60, (6) Stanford 58: The All-Wingspan team (Kentucky) scores just enough to win and sets a tournament record with 22 blocked shots. Game MVP: Rajon Rondo - 14 points, 8 assists, 8 steals, 8 blocks.
(2) Wake Forest 75, (7) Notre Dame 60: The Demon Deacons' Big Three have there way all day and when the Fightin' Irish's threes don't fall, the game gets out of hand. Game MVP: Tim Duncan - 31 points, 12 rebounds.
(1) North Carolina 88, (8) Washington 70: Nate Robinson and Brandon Roy keep the game close for the first half, but the depth of the Tar Heel bench becomes apparent early in the second half and North Carolina pulls away. Game MVP: Antawn Jamison - 28 points including 3 3-pointers.
(5) Ohio State 71, (4) Alabama 68: The Crimson Tide's lack of height allows Greg Oden and Kosta Koufos to have their way down low. Mike Conley is able to neutralize Mo Williams and Michael Redd scores at will. Gerald Wallace has a nice game (25 and 12), but it's not enough. Game MVP: Michael Redd - 32 points including 5 3-pointers.
(3) Syracuse 73, (6) USC 65: Carmelo Anthony thrives in NCAA Tournament-like formats (see 2003 NCAA Tournament and 2008 Olympics). Although his supporting cast here isn't spectacular, it's certainly enough to get by an overmatched Trojans squad. Game MVP: Carmelo Anthony - 35 points and 13 rebounds.
(2) Florida 84, (7) Oklahoma State 67: The Cowboys do not have the scorers to keep up with the run-n-gun Gators. This game gets out of hand early and the Gators are able rest their starters. Game MVP: Mike Miller - 19 points including 4 3-pointers.
Midwest Region
(1) UConn 101, (8) Oregon 75: The Ducks rely on strong guard play to win games. Unfortunately for them, the Huskies are the deepest team in this tournament, and they run Oregon out of the gym. Game MVP: Caron Butler - 24 points including 3 3-pointers.
(5) Illinois 80, (4) Memphis 76: Ultimately, the game comes down to Deron Williams vs. Derrick Rose. Williams carries the Illini on his back and hits some clutch threes down the stretch. Game MVP: Deron Williams - 34 points, 13 assists.
(3) Georgia Tech 84, (6) Villanova 56: This is a nightmare matchup for the Wildcats. They have no big men, and the Yellow Jackets can run with them. Plenty of rest for the regulars. Game MVP: Chris Bosh - 22 points, 17 rebounds.
(2) Kansas 90, (7) Arkansas 75: Joe Johnson keeps Paul Pierce at bay, but every other matchup goes the Wildcats' way, and the Razorbacks are sent home early. Game MVP: Kirk Hinrich - 20 points, 11 assists.
South Region
(1) Duke 80, (8) DePaul 61: The Blue Devils outclass the Blue Demons in every facet of the game. Again, more rest for the regulars. Game MVP: Carlos Boozer - 21 points, 14 rebounds.
(4) LSU 76, (5) California 74: This is my favorite first round matchup. Jason Kidd can have his way with LSU because the Tigers have a huge hole in the backcourt. The Tigers, though, possess the deepest frontcourt in the tournament. Anthony Randolph is forced to play point-forward and does an adequate enough job that the Tigers squeak out out a last-second victory. Game MVP: Shaq - 25 points, 18 rebounds.
(6) Marquette 109, (3) Texas 105 (3 OT): The first round's best individual matchup far surpasses all expectations. Both Kevin Durant and Dwyane Wade post triple doubles. In triple-OT, the Golden Eagles' sharpshooters, Steve Novak and Travis Diener, take the onus off Wade and hit a combined five 3's. A game that will be tough to forget. Game MVP: Dwyane Wade - 43 points, 11 assists, 10 rebounds, 5 steals, 3 blocks.
(2) Arizona 88, (7) Maryland 65: An awful matchup for the Terps as the Wildcats play solid defense and Maryland struggles mightily to put the ball in the hoop. Game MVP: Andre Iguodala - 16 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists.
West Region
(1) UCLA 80, (8) UNLV 66: The Bruins double-team Shawn Marion every time he touches the ball and force his teammates to beat them, a strategy that works to perfection. Game MVP: Baron Davis - 25 points, 12 assists.
(5) Georgetown 55, (4) Michigan State 51: The dysfunctional Spartans display no offensive rhythm and Allen Iverson creates enough open shots for his teammates against the defense-averse Spartans that the Hoyas win a sloppy game. Game MVP: Allen Iverson - 16 points, 8 assists.
(3) Kentucky 60, (6) Stanford 58: The All-Wingspan team (Kentucky) scores just enough to win and sets a tournament record with 22 blocked shots. Game MVP: Rajon Rondo - 14 points, 8 assists, 8 steals, 8 blocks.
(2) Wake Forest 75, (7) Notre Dame 60: The Demon Deacons' Big Three have there way all day and when the Fightin' Irish's threes don't fall, the game gets out of hand. Game MVP: Tim Duncan - 31 points, 12 rebounds.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Bracket
East Region
1- North Carolina
8- Washington
4- Alabama
5- Ohio State
3- Syracuse
6- USC
2- Florida
7- Oklahoma State
Midwest Region
1- UConn
8- Oregon
4- Memphis
5- Illinois
3- Georgia Tech
6- Villanova
2- Kansas
7- Arkansas
South Region
1- Duke
8- DePaul
4- LSU
5- California
3- Texas
6- Marquette
2- Arizona
7- Maryland
West Region
1- UCLA
8- UNLV
4- Michigan State
5- Georgetown
3- Kentucky
6- Stanford
2- Wake Forest
7- Notre Dame
You have 24 hours to fill out your brackets and start an office pool. Good luck.
1- North Carolina
8- Washington
4- Alabama
5- Ohio State
3- Syracuse
6- USC
2- Florida
7- Oklahoma State
Midwest Region
1- UConn
8- Oregon
4- Memphis
5- Illinois
3- Georgia Tech
6- Villanova
2- Kansas
7- Arkansas
South Region
1- Duke
8- DePaul
4- LSU
5- California
3- Texas
6- Marquette
2- Arizona
7- Maryland
West Region
1- UCLA
8- UNLV
4- Michigan State
5- Georgetown
3- Kentucky
6- Stanford
2- Wake Forest
7- Notre Dame
You have 24 hours to fill out your brackets and start an office pool. Good luck.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
NFL Rumor of the Day
Full disclosure: I am guilty of starting this rumor.
The Denver Broncos will / should trade their two first round picks (numbers 12 and 18) to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for the 4th overall pick. I know it's not a perfect match on the NFL Draft Value Chart, but it's a perfect match of needs.
Why Denver will / should do this: The Broncos would virtually guarantee themselves one of the top two quarterbacks in the draft, either Matthew Stafford or Mark Sanchez. In essence, they would have traded their own first and fifth round picks and Jay Cutler for either Stafford or Sanchez, Kyle Orton, a third rounder, and a first round pick next year. Seems pretty fair especially since Cutler and new head coach Josh McDaniels did not see eye-to-eye anyway.
Why Seattle will / should do this: Seattle has many pressing needs. Trading down would allow them to take two impact players. In a perfect scenario for them, they would take a safety (possibly Malcolm Jenkins) with the 12th pick and a quarterback of the future (possibly Josh Freeman) with the 18th pick. Strategically, in order to get Freeman, teams will have to trade ahead of the Tampa Bay Bucs who happen to pick 19th.
The Denver Broncos will / should trade their two first round picks (numbers 12 and 18) to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for the 4th overall pick. I know it's not a perfect match on the NFL Draft Value Chart, but it's a perfect match of needs.
Why Denver will / should do this: The Broncos would virtually guarantee themselves one of the top two quarterbacks in the draft, either Matthew Stafford or Mark Sanchez. In essence, they would have traded their own first and fifth round picks and Jay Cutler for either Stafford or Sanchez, Kyle Orton, a third rounder, and a first round pick next year. Seems pretty fair especially since Cutler and new head coach Josh McDaniels did not see eye-to-eye anyway.
Why Seattle will / should do this: Seattle has many pressing needs. Trading down would allow them to take two impact players. In a perfect scenario for them, they would take a safety (possibly Malcolm Jenkins) with the 12th pick and a quarterback of the future (possibly Josh Freeman) with the 18th pick. Strategically, in order to get Freeman, teams will have to trade ahead of the Tampa Bay Bucs who happen to pick 19th.
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Rosters
Rosters for 32 Team Field
1. North Carolina: Marvin Williams, Raymond Felton, Vince Carter, Rasheed Wallace, Antawn Jamison, Jerry Stackhouse, Brandan Wright, Rashad McCants, Brendan Haywood, Sean May, Jawad Williams
1. UCLA: Aaron Afflalo, Dan Gadzuric, Luc Mbah a Moute, Jason Kapono, Ryan Hollins, Baron Davis, Trevor Ariza, Jordan Farmar, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook, Matt Barnes, Earl Watson
1. Duke: Luol Deng, Corey Maggette, Mike Dunleavy, Josh McRoberts, Chris Duhon, JJ Redick, Elton Brand, Shane Battier, Shelden Williams, Grant Hill, Carlos Boozer, Shavlik Randolph, Dahntay Jones
1. UConn: Ray Allen, Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon, Richard Hamilton, Charlie Villanueva, Josh Boone, Caron Butler, Rudy Gay, Kevin Ollie, Hilton Armstrong, Jake Voskuhl, Kevin Ollie, Donyell Marshall
2. Wake Forest: Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Josh Howard, Darius Songaila, Chris Ellis, Rusty LaRue, Trent Strickland
2. Florida: Al Horford, Joakim Noah, Udonis Haslem, David Lee, Marreese Speights, Corey Brewer, Mike Miller, Matt Bonner, Anthony Roberson
2. Kansas: Kirk Hinrich, Paul Pierce, Julian Wright, Darnell Jackson, Brandon Rush, Mario Chalmers, Darrell Arthur, Nick Collison, Drew Gooden, Jacque Vaughn
2. Arizona: Mike Bibby, Richard Jefferson, Andre Iguodala, Gilbert Arenas, Jason Terry, Luke Walton, Jerryd Bayless, Channing Frye, Hassan Adams
3. Georgia Tech: Chris Bosh, Stephon Marbury, Will Bynum, Jarrett Jack, Thaddeus Young, Javaris Crittenton, Anthony Morrow, Matt Harpring, Mario West
3. Texas: Kevin Durant, DJ Augustin, Daniel Gibson, TJ Ford, Royal Ivey, Chris Mihm, LaMarcus Aldridge, Maurice Evans
3. Syracuse: Carmelo Anthony, Etan Thomas, Jason Hart, Hakim Warrick, Donte Greene, Darryl Watkins, Demetris Nichols
3. Kentucky: Rajon Rondo, Nazr Mohammed, Tayshaun Prince, Jamaal Magliore, Keith Bogans, Chuck Hayes, Kelenna Azubuike, Randolph Morris
4. LSU: Glen Davis, Tyrus Thomas, Anthony Randolph, Shaq, Brandon Bass, Stromile Swift, Ronald Dupree
4. Michigan State: Charlie Bell, Jason Richardson, Mo Ager, Zach Randolph, Shannon Brown, Morris Peterson, Paul Davis
4. Memphis: Derrick Rose, Lorenzen Wright, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Shawne Williams, Joey Dorsey, Rodney Carney, Darius Washington
4. Alabama: Mo Williams, Gerald Wallace, Antonio McDyess, Jermareo Davidson, Robert Horry, Rod Grizzard, Richard Hendrix
5. Georgetown: Allen Iverson, Roy Hibbert, Dikemebe Mutombo, Jeff Green, Othella Harrington, Alonzo Mourning, Parick Ewing Jr.
5. California-Berkeley: Jason Kidd, Leon Powe, Francisco Elson, Ryan Anderson, Sean Marks, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Rod Benson
5. Illinois: Luther Head, Deron Williams, Brian Cook, Dee Brown, James Augustine, Roger Powell, Nick Smith
5. Ohio State: Daequan Cook, Greg Oden, Mike Conley, Michael Redd, Kosta Koufos, Othello Hunter, JJ Sullinger, Jamar Butler
6. Stanford: Brevin Knight, Brook Lopez, Robin Lopez, Jason Collins, Mark Madsen, Jarron Collins, Casey Jacobsen
6. USC: OJ Mayo, Brian Scalabrine, Nick Young, Desmond Farmer, Gabe Pruitt, Sam Clancy, Jeff Trepagnier
6. Villanova: Tim Thomas, Kyle Lowry, Randy Foye, Malik Allen, Allan Ray, Alvin Williams, Jason Fraser
6. Marquette: Travis Diener, Dwyane Wade, Steve Novak, Greg Clausen, Scott Merritt, Joe Chapman, Amal MacCaskill
7. Arkansas: Joe Johnson, Sonny Weems, Ronnie Brewer, Steven Hill, Jannero Pargo, Kareem Reid, Corliss Williamson
7. Oklahoma State: Tony Allen, Stephen Graham, Joey Graham, Desmond Mason, JamesOn Curry, Ivan McFarlin, John Lucas
7. Maryland: Joe Smith, Chris Wilcox, Steve Blake, Juan Dixon, DJ Strawberry, Steve Francis, Chris McCray
7. Notre Dame: Troy Murphy, Chris Quinn, Matt Carroll, Rob Kurz, Pat Garrity, Torrian Jones, Ryan Humphrey
8. DePaul: Bobby Simmons, Quentin Richardson, Wilson Chandler, Steven Hunter, Andre Brown, Paul McPherson, Rod Strickland
8. Oregon: Luke Ridnour, Aaron Brooks, Fred Jones, Malik Hairston, Luke Jackson, Andre Joseph, Alex Scales
8. Washington: Nate Robinson, Brandon Roy, Spencer Hawes, Bobby Jones, Will Conroy, Ryan Appelby, Jamaal Williams
8. UNLV: Shawn Marion, Marcus Banks, Louis Amundson, Joel Anthony, Stacey Augmon, Keon Clark, Romel Beck
Brackets will be released tomorrow.
1. North Carolina: Marvin Williams, Raymond Felton, Vince Carter, Rasheed Wallace, Antawn Jamison, Jerry Stackhouse, Brandan Wright, Rashad McCants, Brendan Haywood, Sean May, Jawad Williams
1. UCLA: Aaron Afflalo, Dan Gadzuric, Luc Mbah a Moute, Jason Kapono, Ryan Hollins, Baron Davis, Trevor Ariza, Jordan Farmar, Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook, Matt Barnes, Earl Watson
1. Duke: Luol Deng, Corey Maggette, Mike Dunleavy, Josh McRoberts, Chris Duhon, JJ Redick, Elton Brand, Shane Battier, Shelden Williams, Grant Hill, Carlos Boozer, Shavlik Randolph, Dahntay Jones
1. UConn: Ray Allen, Emeka Okafor, Ben Gordon, Richard Hamilton, Charlie Villanueva, Josh Boone, Caron Butler, Rudy Gay, Kevin Ollie, Hilton Armstrong, Jake Voskuhl, Kevin Ollie, Donyell Marshall
2. Wake Forest: Chris Paul, Tim Duncan, Josh Howard, Darius Songaila, Chris Ellis, Rusty LaRue, Trent Strickland
2. Florida: Al Horford, Joakim Noah, Udonis Haslem, David Lee, Marreese Speights, Corey Brewer, Mike Miller, Matt Bonner, Anthony Roberson
2. Kansas: Kirk Hinrich, Paul Pierce, Julian Wright, Darnell Jackson, Brandon Rush, Mario Chalmers, Darrell Arthur, Nick Collison, Drew Gooden, Jacque Vaughn
2. Arizona: Mike Bibby, Richard Jefferson, Andre Iguodala, Gilbert Arenas, Jason Terry, Luke Walton, Jerryd Bayless, Channing Frye, Hassan Adams
3. Georgia Tech: Chris Bosh, Stephon Marbury, Will Bynum, Jarrett Jack, Thaddeus Young, Javaris Crittenton, Anthony Morrow, Matt Harpring, Mario West
3. Texas: Kevin Durant, DJ Augustin, Daniel Gibson, TJ Ford, Royal Ivey, Chris Mihm, LaMarcus Aldridge, Maurice Evans
3. Syracuse: Carmelo Anthony, Etan Thomas, Jason Hart, Hakim Warrick, Donte Greene, Darryl Watkins, Demetris Nichols
3. Kentucky: Rajon Rondo, Nazr Mohammed, Tayshaun Prince, Jamaal Magliore, Keith Bogans, Chuck Hayes, Kelenna Azubuike, Randolph Morris
4. LSU: Glen Davis, Tyrus Thomas, Anthony Randolph, Shaq, Brandon Bass, Stromile Swift, Ronald Dupree
4. Michigan State: Charlie Bell, Jason Richardson, Mo Ager, Zach Randolph, Shannon Brown, Morris Peterson, Paul Davis
4. Memphis: Derrick Rose, Lorenzen Wright, Chris Douglas-Roberts, Shawne Williams, Joey Dorsey, Rodney Carney, Darius Washington
4. Alabama: Mo Williams, Gerald Wallace, Antonio McDyess, Jermareo Davidson, Robert Horry, Rod Grizzard, Richard Hendrix
5. Georgetown: Allen Iverson, Roy Hibbert, Dikemebe Mutombo, Jeff Green, Othella Harrington, Alonzo Mourning, Parick Ewing Jr.
5. California-Berkeley: Jason Kidd, Leon Powe, Francisco Elson, Ryan Anderson, Sean Marks, Shareef Abdur-Rahim, Rod Benson
5. Illinois: Luther Head, Deron Williams, Brian Cook, Dee Brown, James Augustine, Roger Powell, Nick Smith
5. Ohio State: Daequan Cook, Greg Oden, Mike Conley, Michael Redd, Kosta Koufos, Othello Hunter, JJ Sullinger, Jamar Butler
6. Stanford: Brevin Knight, Brook Lopez, Robin Lopez, Jason Collins, Mark Madsen, Jarron Collins, Casey Jacobsen
6. USC: OJ Mayo, Brian Scalabrine, Nick Young, Desmond Farmer, Gabe Pruitt, Sam Clancy, Jeff Trepagnier
6. Villanova: Tim Thomas, Kyle Lowry, Randy Foye, Malik Allen, Allan Ray, Alvin Williams, Jason Fraser
6. Marquette: Travis Diener, Dwyane Wade, Steve Novak, Greg Clausen, Scott Merritt, Joe Chapman, Amal MacCaskill
7. Arkansas: Joe Johnson, Sonny Weems, Ronnie Brewer, Steven Hill, Jannero Pargo, Kareem Reid, Corliss Williamson
7. Oklahoma State: Tony Allen, Stephen Graham, Joey Graham, Desmond Mason, JamesOn Curry, Ivan McFarlin, John Lucas
7. Maryland: Joe Smith, Chris Wilcox, Steve Blake, Juan Dixon, DJ Strawberry, Steve Francis, Chris McCray
7. Notre Dame: Troy Murphy, Chris Quinn, Matt Carroll, Rob Kurz, Pat Garrity, Torrian Jones, Ryan Humphrey
8. DePaul: Bobby Simmons, Quentin Richardson, Wilson Chandler, Steven Hunter, Andre Brown, Paul McPherson, Rod Strickland
8. Oregon: Luke Ridnour, Aaron Brooks, Fred Jones, Malik Hairston, Luke Jackson, Andre Joseph, Alex Scales
8. Washington: Nate Robinson, Brandon Roy, Spencer Hawes, Bobby Jones, Will Conroy, Ryan Appelby, Jamaal Williams
8. UNLV: Shawn Marion, Marcus Banks, Louis Amundson, Joel Anthony, Stacey Augmon, Keon Clark, Romel Beck
Brackets will be released tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Another Appalling Decision in Cincinnati
This is becoming a joke. The Bengals signed DT Tank Johnson, another player who has been suspended by the league (gun violation).
No team needs new management more than the Cincinnati Bengals. How many criminals / convicts can one team welcome with open arms?
You are a joke of a franchise. For once, look at a moral compass.
It's time to start from scratch.
No team needs new management more than the Cincinnati Bengals. How many criminals / convicts can one team welcome with open arms?
You are a joke of a franchise. For once, look at a moral compass.
It's time to start from scratch.
NCAA Tournament, NBA Style - Preview
Although this could be the best idea I've ever had, the premise is relatively simple:
Which college would win a single-elimination tournament using players (NBA, NBDL, etc) that attended their schools?
Over the next few days, we'll break down the rosters and match-ups.
Three quick notes / assumptions:
-I tried to follow NCAA seeding guidelines (ie no teams from the same conference can meet before the Elite 8)
-For teams with less than 7 current NBA players, I backfilled the roster using NBDL players, the most recent NBA retirees or recent college graduates.
--The results are based on games that would be played today. Skill levels will be adjusted as appropriate.
Sit back and enjoy.
Which college would win a single-elimination tournament using players (NBA, NBDL, etc) that attended their schools?
Over the next few days, we'll break down the rosters and match-ups.
Three quick notes / assumptions:
-I tried to follow NCAA seeding guidelines (ie no teams from the same conference can meet before the Elite 8)
-For teams with less than 7 current NBA players, I backfilled the roster using NBDL players, the most recent NBA retirees or recent college graduates.
--The results are based on games that would be played today. Skill levels will be adjusted as appropriate.
Sit back and enjoy.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Sports Pet Peeve(s)
Sports Pet Peeve #6a: The fact that an NBA player can force a team to buy-out his contract so he can sign with another team. In essence, it's “double-dipping” (which for me also happens to be Non-Sports Pet Peeve #16 but that’s a whole different story).
Need an example to make things more clear? Let’s look at the Alonzo Mourning from a few years back. The New Jersey Nets signed Mourning to a 4-year, $22-million contract. Two years into the deal, the Nets trade Mourning to the Toronto Raptors. Mourning refuses to play for the Raptors and demands a buyout. The Raptors, with seemingly no choice, oblige. They give ‘Zo $10 million to rid themselves of him. Shortly thereafter, ‘Zo signs a new free agent contract with the Miami Heat. So, now ‘Zo is getting paid by the Raptors and the Heat. Double-dipping at its finest.
Closely related…
#6b: The fact that when a team releases a player, he gets paid the remainder of his contract by that team, and can sign a new, additional contract with a new team.
Need an example? Let’s look at Qyntel Woods, who was drafted in the 1st Round of the 2002 NBA Draft. The Boston Celtics recently released Woods with 1-year, $750,000 remaining on his contract. The New York Knicks signed Woods (yes, this is the same Q-Woods accused of running a pit bull fighting ring in Oregon, but we’ll save that one for a later date) meaning they owe him the prorated NBA minimum for the rest of the season (about $500,000). So, Woods will be rewarded for being released. This season he’ll make approximately $1.25 million.
***********************
I was watching a "Best of ESPN Commercials" recently and was reminded of those “Without Sports . . .” ads? Well, if I had a say I’d add this one: Without sports this woman would not be caught dead with this man.
Need an example to make things more clear? Let’s look at the Alonzo Mourning from a few years back. The New Jersey Nets signed Mourning to a 4-year, $22-million contract. Two years into the deal, the Nets trade Mourning to the Toronto Raptors. Mourning refuses to play for the Raptors and demands a buyout. The Raptors, with seemingly no choice, oblige. They give ‘Zo $10 million to rid themselves of him. Shortly thereafter, ‘Zo signs a new free agent contract with the Miami Heat. So, now ‘Zo is getting paid by the Raptors and the Heat. Double-dipping at its finest.
Closely related…
#6b: The fact that when a team releases a player, he gets paid the remainder of his contract by that team, and can sign a new, additional contract with a new team.
Need an example? Let’s look at Qyntel Woods, who was drafted in the 1st Round of the 2002 NBA Draft. The Boston Celtics recently released Woods with 1-year, $750,000 remaining on his contract. The New York Knicks signed Woods (yes, this is the same Q-Woods accused of running a pit bull fighting ring in Oregon, but we’ll save that one for a later date) meaning they owe him the prorated NBA minimum for the rest of the season (about $500,000). So, Woods will be rewarded for being released. This season he’ll make approximately $1.25 million.
***********************
I was watching a "Best of ESPN Commercials" recently and was reminded of those “Without Sports . . .” ads? Well, if I had a say I’d add this one: Without sports this woman would not be caught dead with this man.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Revisiting The Offseason Predictions
On the first day of 2009, I predicted where the top nine Major League free agents would wind up. Let's see how I did.
1. Manny Ramirez, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Angels
Will End Up: Dodgers
Actual: Dodgers
2. Adam Dunn, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Orioles
Will End Up: Angels
Actual: Nationals
3. Derek Lowe, SP
Perfect Landing Spot: Mets
Will End Up: Mets
Actual: Braves
4. Oliver Perez, SP
Perfect Landing Spot: Mets
Will End Up: Mets
Actual: Mets
5. Milton Bradley, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Cubs
Will End Up: Cubs
Actual: Cubs
6. Ben Sheets, SP
Perfect Landing Spot: Rangers
Will End Up: Rangers
Actual: N/A - Still a free agent
7. Orlando Hudson, 2B
Perfect Landing Spot: White Sox
Will End Up: Braves
Actual: Dodgers
8. Pat Burrell, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Indians
Will End Up: Rays
Actual: Rays
9. Bobby Abreu, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: A's
Will End Up: A's
Actual: Angels
Scorecard
Correct: 4
Incorrect: 4
To Be Deceided: 1
I'll take a .500 offseason.
1. Manny Ramirez, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Angels
Will End Up: Dodgers
Actual: Dodgers
2. Adam Dunn, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Orioles
Will End Up: Angels
Actual: Nationals
3. Derek Lowe, SP
Perfect Landing Spot: Mets
Will End Up: Mets
Actual: Braves
4. Oliver Perez, SP
Perfect Landing Spot: Mets
Will End Up: Mets
Actual: Mets
5. Milton Bradley, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Cubs
Will End Up: Cubs
Actual: Cubs
6. Ben Sheets, SP
Perfect Landing Spot: Rangers
Will End Up: Rangers
Actual: N/A - Still a free agent
7. Orlando Hudson, 2B
Perfect Landing Spot: White Sox
Will End Up: Braves
Actual: Dodgers
8. Pat Burrell, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: Indians
Will End Up: Rays
Actual: Rays
9. Bobby Abreu, OF
Perfect Landing Spot: A's
Will End Up: A's
Actual: Angels
Scorecard
Correct: 4
Incorrect: 4
To Be Deceided: 1
I'll take a .500 offseason.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Interesting Links et al
* Trivia Question: How many players from the 2003 NCAA Football Championship Game (Miami vs. Ohio State) have played in the NFL?
*Personally, I never grow sick of Wonderlic Test articles. Here's one that pacified me.
*Honey, I'm going to the game. I'll be back.... never.
*I'm a bit late to the party, but analyzing umpires seems like the next wave of sabermetrics. Along those lines, check out this article.
*This story is incredibly weird and not just becuase a 20-year old stud prospect has a 43-year old wife. Although Tabata might be older than his listed age, that's still a huge age gap.
*I need more details on this story. Specifically, what's the story with this scam? I am probably getting this wrong, but it seems like the scammers were trying to sell money in exchange for... money." Come over and buy our money at a discount."
*Trivia Answer: 51
*Personally, I never grow sick of Wonderlic Test articles. Here's one that pacified me.
*Honey, I'm going to the game. I'll be back.... never.
*I'm a bit late to the party, but analyzing umpires seems like the next wave of sabermetrics. Along those lines, check out this article.
*This story is incredibly weird and not just becuase a 20-year old stud prospect has a 43-year old wife. Although Tabata might be older than his listed age, that's still a huge age gap.
*I need more details on this story. Specifically, what's the story with this scam? I am probably getting this wrong, but it seems like the scammers were trying to sell money in exchange for... money." Come over and buy our money at a discount."
*Trivia Answer: 51
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