Money Ball

Could this be the year "Money Ball" finally comes to fruition for the Oakland Athletics?

Oakland has pulled off a blockbuster deal with the Boston Red Sox to acquire ace John Lester.  The Athletics currently own the best record in the American league.  Lester will become a free agent in the off-season.  The addition makes them an even more dangerous threat headed into postseason play.

Billy Beane pullled the trigger on this deal with the hopes Lester can help Oakland get over the hump. Oakland is no stranger to winning 90 plus ball games. Aside from a down period between 2007-2011, Oakland has been a constant 90 game winner under Beane's guidance.

Lester was money in the postseason last year for Boston.  He went 2-0, with a 0.59 ERA in the World Series.  If not for David Ortiz catching fire on the Cardinals pitching staff, Lester would have certainly been named World Series MVP.

Lester went 10-7, with a 2.51 ERA for Boston this season.  Despite having somewhat of a down year, Lester has still been pretty solid on the mound.

This could be a one shot deal in Oakland for Lester. He could leave Oakland via free agency this winter. A return to Boston  remains a possibility.

Everything comes with a price in sports.  I'm sure Oakland will have a difficult time seeing Yoenis Cespedes leave town.  The third - year player made his first All-Star appearance this year.  He had become a staple in the middle of the Athletics line-up.  He became a you tube sensation this season with an impressive array of tosses from the outfield.

Boston has a history of trading their stars with something left in the tank.  The names Babe Ruth and Roger Clemens should ring a bell.

BACK to ACTION!

Rucker Park is one of the oldest street ball venues in the country.  Julius Erving played here in the 1970's. Kobe Bryant was here in 2002 as a 23 year old, three-time defending NBA Champion.  Baron Davis, Joakim Noah, Lew Alcindor and Pee Wee Kirkland have all shined at Rucker.

Since 1982 Rucker Park has done a great job hosting the Entertainers Basketball Classic.  Hip-hop and basketball have blended to form our own culture.  Shout outs to N.Y Falcons, Sean Bell All-Stars and the rest of the teams representing at 155th street.  The E.B.C was originally held at Marcus Garvey park.

The Polo Grounds hold a special place in New York City history.  The Mets, Yankees, Giants (football), Giants (baseball) and Jets all once called 155th and eight Avenue home.

Much respect to Dwight Hardy and Justin Burrell for holding the Bronx down all over the city.

Remember Cinderella

10 years ago the Detroit Pistons pulled off one of the greatest upsets in NBA Finals history. Most NBA Championship teams have at least one superstar level player on the roster.  The Showtime Lakers, Larry Bird's Celtics, those great Knickerbocker teams of the early 70's, the list goes on.

Detroit defeated the Indiana Pacers 4-2 in the Eastern Conference Finals.  The accomplishment was great, but the Los Angeles Lakers were next in line.  Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal were three-time champions. Karl Malone and Gary Payton joined the Lakers in pursuit of a championship ring.The underdog Pistons battered the Lakers 4-1, including three consecutive blow out victories.  Phil Jackson looked mystified after each defeat.  After all, Phil had yet to lose an NBA Finals. To this day basketball analyst are still confused about this one.

The 2004 Detroit Pistons were a bunch of castaways that happened to find a home in Detroit. Rasheed Wallace is the only holdout.  Wallace is one of the most versatile Power Forwards in NBA history. Most people don't know that because of his unselfishness and an uncanny knack to get under the referees skin.  Wallace ' s career was also overshadowed by Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan. While the others get all of the accolades, Wallace didn't have a problem doing the dirty work.

Ben Wallace didn't even attend a Division one school.  He attended Virginia Union, the same institution that produced Charles Oakley.  Wallace played against inferior competition prior to joining the NBA.  He never really learned how to play the game of basketball.  This is exactly why his career went to shambles after his athletic ability diminished.

Richard Hamilton was a star at Connecticut.  He was a member of Jim Calhoun ' s first NCAA Championship team.  Hamilton ' s NBA career got off to a rocky start.  He showed flashes as a member of the Wizards, but was shipped to Detroit before things could get rolling in the nation's capital.  The knock on Hamilton was that he came into the league too slim.  However, what people didn't know was Hamilton was a tireless worker.  His training schedule resembles that of a cross country runner.

Chauncey Billups journey is the most unique of this group of unlikely champions.  Billups was the second overall selection in the 1997 NBA Draft. Rick Pitino had just left college for another Crack at the NBA.  Billups was supposed to be one of the key components that would get the Celtics back to their glory days.  Things didn't go as planned for Billups in Boston.  Before he knew it, he had become an NBA journeyman.  Even his hometown Denver Nuggets had given up hope on Billups.  Joe Dumars decided to take a shot on the well traveled guard. That Move turned out to be a great addition.  He would go on to make his first All-Star appearance as a member of the Pistons.  Billups was one of the best two-way guards in the league during his time in Detroit.

Tayshaun Prince had his share of doubts entering the NBA.  He played Center during his time at Kentucky.  Scouts questioned whether he could adjust to playing small forward in the NBA.  His slender frame was also a red flag.  Prince is wiry strong.  Similar to the way Scottie Pippen was in the 90's.

The Pistons made a cameo appearance in the finals the following year.  The San Antonio Spurs defeated Detroit in seven games.   Detroit would go on to make six consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances, the last team to accomplish this feat.  Even as the younger teams in the east began to figure out the aging Pistons, they still made it difficult by defending the heck out of you.

This team will not go down as one of the greatest in NBA history.  However, they will be remembered for pulling off one of the greatest upsets in finals history, and almost doing it again the following season.

10 years ago seems like yesterday.  Never forget about Cinderella.  She provides some of the most intriguing stories in sports.

23 again!

LeBron James has decided to change his number for the 2014-15 NBA season.  LeBron appears to be going through another transition period in his life. The Miami Heat experience was like going to college through LeBron ' s eyes.

Championship rings are not the only entity that motivates LeBron these days.  He returned to his home state to help improve the quality of life in Ohio.  Apparently his mentality towards the number 23 has also changed.

At one point LeBron claimed the number 23 shouldn't be worn by any player in the NBA.  Now that he's decided to go home, he's flip flopped on that decision.  This is not the first time LeBron has changed his mind, and it probably won't be the last.

LeBron returning to Cleveland is the biggest news in the NBA since Michael Jordan's return from baseball.  Michael was returning to continue the Bulls glory days.  After all, the Bulls had yet to lose in the NBA Finals with him on the roster.  LeBron is going home with a new mission.  He gives the impression he wants the people in Cleveland to know he's a different man.

Allen Iverson ' s career was full of turmoil, but you had to respect the fact that he did it his own way.  He built his brand based off of his own character.  The problem with Allen was he never grew up.

Both Kobe Bryant and LeBron seem to always find a way to associate themselves with Michael Jordan. Kobe famously switched his number 8 jersey to 24 a few years back.  Kobe claims the switch was made because he wore 24 when he was younger. Pretty ironic he changed his number around the time he scored 81 points on the Toronto Raptors. From the outside it looks as if Kobe was attempting to one up Michael.

I will always remember Kobe as number 8.  Number 6 was originally Bill Russell ' s number. LeBron's best bet is to find a new number to represent a new chapter in his life.  Things didn't end well for LeBron in Cleveland part one.  New chapter, new number!

Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks have been one of the most active teams in the NBA this offseason.  The Chandler Parsons signing could swing the power in the Western Conference back to the Mavericks. Houston didn't show much interest in keeping the young forward.  Dallas swooped in and stole Parsons services while the Rockets were in hot pursuit of Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh.  That's a loss The Rockets could feel more as time passes.

Dallas acquired Tyson Chandler and Raymond Felton from the Knicks in a trade prior to the NBA draft.  Chandler was the defensive anchor on the Mavericks 2011 NBA Championship team.  His addition adds some much needed depth to their frontline.  Chandler plays better basketball with a big Power Forward next to him.

Monta Ellis was a pleasant surprise for Dallas last season. For the first time in his career Monta was seen as a positive addition.  He took most of the blame for chemistry issues in Golden State and Milwaukee.  Prior to joining Dallas controversy seemed to follow the Mississippi native.  A change of scenery has worked wonders for Monta.  At any point he can go off for 40 points. He didn't force the issue his first year in Dallas.  This is still Dirk's team. He seemed to understand that concept well.

Sometimes the small moves are the ones that prove pivotal later on in the NBA.  Dallas signed veteran Point Guard Jameer Nelson to a two-year deal.  Nelson is no longer the player he was early in his career, but he still possesses the ability to stretch the court as good as any guard in the league. Dallas is geared up to win a title next season.  Rick Carlisle would love nothing more than for Nelson to be the Mavericks version of Derek Fisher.

Dirk deserves a great deal of credit for all the free agent flexibility Dallas has shown this summer.  He signed a club friendly, three-year, $25 Million dollar deal to remain in Dallas.  This season alone his annual salary will decrease by $15 Million dollars. How's that for a salary cut.  NBA players shouldn't be forced to take a salary cut.  However, when a player does accept a reduced salary, he should be commended for his unselfishness.

Dallas pushed the NBA Champions to seven games in the first-round of the NBA playoffs.  There's no reason why anyone in the Mavericks locker room should feel like they aren't capable of winning it all.

Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have finally found a head coach.  Byron Scott is expected to accept the Lakers head coaching slot after weeks of speculation.  Jim Buss may have been waiting for the Doc Rivers situation to play out over in Clipper land.  Either way Los Angeles inked one of the front runners to get the job as expected.

At this stage in Kobe Bryant's career you would expect the front office to hire someone familiar with the organization.  Despite the depleted roster, the Lakers aren't approaching this season as a team in rebuild mode.  Kobe signed a two-year extension through the 2016 season.  By that time Kobe wants a sixth championship ring.

Scott was a mentor to Kobe before retiring and beginning his coaching career.  Kobe's new coach is only 18 years his elder.  This hire is completely different from the one the Cleveland Cavaliers just pulled off.  David Blatt has no coaching experience in the NBA.  Scott brings 13 years of experience to the Lakers sideline.

Scott was a three time NBA Champion with the Lakers alongside Magic Johnson in the 80's.  He filled the lanes and finished around the basket with extreme ferocity.  Scott's play is one of the reasons the Showtime Lakers are one of the most accomplished teams in NBA history.  He averaged 14.1 points and 2.5 assist per game during his 15 year career.

Despite a losing record as a head coach,  Scott has experienced success on the NBA level.  He coached the New Jersey Nets to back-to-back NBA Finals appearences in 2002 and 2003.  In 2008 Scott led the New Orleans Hornets to a Southwest division crown.  The Hornets finished second overall in the Western Conference with a 56-26 record.  Scott was awarded the NBA Coach of The Year award for his efforts.  The following year he guided the Hornets to a 49-33 mark.  Scott has coached some young teams during his time as an NBA coach.

Scott has been known to get into it with his players. He was fired by the Nets in 2004 due to a dispute with Jason Kidd.  He and Chris Paul were not the best of friends during his tenure with the Hornets. Kobe and Scott must stay on the same page to make this hire a success.

Moore Bananas.

Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, Teresa Weatherspoon and all the other women that helped usher in the WNBA almost 20 years ago should be proud of themselves.  Those women laid the ground work for all the talented stars playing in the league today.  

Maya Moore opened the second half of the Minnesota Lynx season with one of the greatest performances in the short history of this league against the Atlanta Dream.  Moore scored 48 points, including a blistering 7-9 from three-point range. Atlanta is no push over.  Three starters from the Eastern Conference All-Star team play for the Dream. Moore's  outstanding point total is the second highest output in WNBA history.

Moore is in the midst of an MVP caliber season. She has scored at least 30 points in 10 games this season, which is a league record.  At this pace Minnesota will be a tough out come playoff time.

Moore is arguably the best player in the women's game.  She's had the shackles removed from her game since her departure from  Connecticut.  She has the total package on the basketball court. Inside, outside and mid-range.  Her game really has no weakness.

Basketball fans, while your waiting for the NBA to return this fall check out Maya Moore. You won't regret it.

Hardaway To U.S select team

Tim Hardaway Jr. Is young, energetic and full of potential.  The second year, second generation NBA athlete has been selected to participate as a member of the U.S Men's National Select Team.  Hardaway Jr. Will spend the remainder of his summer practicing against some of the best talent the NBA has to offer.

Hardaway Jr. could be the the brightest part of the Knicks future.  In recent years Iman Shumpert has been heralded as the next great player to represent the Knicks organization.  Shumpert has shown signs, but has yet to meet the high expectations thrust upon him.  Hardaway JR. on the other hand has been a pleasant surprise since joining he Knicks.  He was arguably the Knicks best player last season outside of Carmelo Anthony.

Hopefully this experience will bode well for the Knicks second year guard.  If he plays well, he should enter the season with his confidence sky high.  Carmelo can use all the help he can get.  The Knicks are implementing an entirely new system next year. A Knock down shooter can find a great deal of success in the triangle offense.  Hardaway JR. shot 35 % from three-point range during his rookie season.  That number should increase next season.  The younger Hardaway is a gym rat in the same manner as his father.

The best thing about this kid is the fact that he is his own man.  His father boasted one of the best cross-over moves in league history.  Yet, Hardaway JR doesn't approach the game trying to recreate his father's magic.  He doesn't mind being coached either.  Mike Woodson taught him core values as a rookie he can take with him for the duration of his NBA career.

Tim Hardaway JR. is a huge part of the Knicks future.  Congratulations on making the U.S select team.  This should be the first of a long list of achievements.

Giants open camp

The New York Football Giants kicked off training camp today in East Rutherford New Jersey.  This year camp is different for the Giants.  The team is coming off their first losing season since Eli Manning's rookie campaign back in 2004.  The Giants have missed the playoffs in four of the last five seasons, squeezing in a Super Bowl championship in 2011.  Quite frankly, the Giants haven't gotten it done since winning Super Bowl 46.

Eli Manning is one of the most durable players in the NFL.  The two time Super Bowl MVP is coming off ankle surgery this offseason.  Last year was was difficult for Eli.  He seemed out of sync with his receivers for much of the season.  Eli topped the NFL in interceptions with 27.  It seems as if Eli is always searching for respect.  This season is about redemption for the Giants starting Quarterback.

Chris Snee will be retiring prior to the 2014 NFL season.  Snee has been a member of the Giants since 2004.  He and Eli came up through the Giants ranks together.  He was the last remaining starting lineman from the Giants Super Bowl 46 Championship team.  The Giants will miss Chris Snee.

The Giants offense will have a new look this season. Ben McAdoo will take over the reigns from Kevin Gilbride.  Gilbride was the Giants offensive coordinator since 2007.  Under Gilbride the Giants offense relied heavily on body language.  That could be one of he reasons Eli threw so many interceptions last season.  In that type of offense it's important the Quarterback is on the same page with his receivers.

Sometimes change is necessary in the NFL.  The 2013 season was one of the most disappointing years in team history.  The Giants failed to qualify for postseason play the first time the Super Bowl was held in New York.  The fan base agonized over their team having such a brutal season.

Victor Cruz is now the leader of the receiving core. He could be the Giants most important player outside of Eli.  Cruz is coming off a disappointing 2013 season.  I expect him to have another big year. Every good team needs a deep ball threat in this league.  Hopefully Cruz can get back to the level he played at in 2011 and 2012.

Mario Manningham has returned to the Giants. Manningham is coming off an injury riddled tenure with the SanFransisco 49ers.  Eli will benefit from having a familiar target to throw to.  Manningham's health will be a huge question mark.

Tom Coughlin is entering his 11th season as head coach.  Every year Coughlin finds a different way to motivate his team.  This season that message isn't necessary.  The Giants are not used to missing the playoffs.  The bad taste of going home early should be enough motivation.

Kevin Love wants out of the Minnesota.  He's felt this way for a while now.  Love is adamant about leaving the Twin cities so bad that he informed the organization of his plans of becoming an unrestricted free agent a year before hitting the market.

Maybe Love is haunted by Kevin Garnett's success after leaving Minnesota.  Garnett's career had a healthy resurgence after becoming a member of the Boston Celtics.  The situation in Boston developed by a stroke of luck.  Kevin McHale sent Garnett to Boston almost for nothing.  If Love signs an extension in Minnesota he will be committing to the T'Wolves at least until his 29th birthday.

Love posted monstrous numbers last season.  He averaged 26 points and 12 rebounds per contest.  If he finds a new home this offseason, he will be the first player since Shaquille O'Neal to switch teams following a season of at least 25 points and 10 rebounds per game.

O'Neal, Elvin Hayes, Moses Malone and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar all captured championships after leaving their original NBA teams.  They all averaged at least 25 points and 10 rebounds the season prior to finding a new home.  Moses did it in his first season in Philadelphia.  He was the missing link that got those talented 76ers teams of the late 70's and early 80's over the hump.

If your banking on history, Cleveland has every reason to want Love in their line-up.  The Cav's are reportedly willing to shop Andrew Wiggins and Anthony Bennett to acquire Love's services.  The Golden State Warriors are still an outside sleeper trying to get a deal in place.  Klay Thompson is the piece the Warriors have not been willing to throw in the deal.  Breaking up the splash brothers is a tough decision to make.

Wherever Love ends up will swing power in the NBA.  If he gets his wish and is dealt this offseason, he needs to show up right away.  Love has failed to make the playoffs in his NBA career.  Love must prove he is worth the headache.

Bulls add veteran guard

The Chicago Bulls have added depth to their backcourt by signing veteran Point Guard Aaron Brooks.  Despite missing out on signing Carmelo Anthony, the Bulls have still been active on the free agent market.  This current Bulls team is under pressure to win right now.  Every year Tom Thibodeau is rumored in head coaching vacancies.  You can't help but to think he will eventually take the bait.

Brooks has averaged 11.1 points and 3.4 assist per game during his nine year career.  Most of his success came during his time as a member of the Houston Rockets.  He averaged a career high 19.6 points per game for Houston in 2010.  He started all 82 games while leading the Rockets to the second round before bowing out  the eventual champion Los Angeles Lakers.

In a wide open Eastern Conference bulking up at the Point Guard position could prove pivotal for the Bulls come playoff time.  Derrick Rose is expected to be back at 100 %.  However, with a history of injuries Brooks May find himself playing important minutes come next season.

Aaron Brooks is a capable player that has experienced success on the the NBA level.  His addition makes the Bulls a better team.

Phil

After only a few months on the job Phil Jackson has the New York Knicks organization heading in the right direction.  NBA Championships are not won over night.  A number of things have to go right for a team to get to that level.  A little bit of luck never hurt anyone either.

Cleanthony Early could be the steal of the NBA Draft.  The best thing about this kid is he's ready to play.  Drafting a senior is rare in this day and age. Scouts figure something must be wrong if no one has convinced a kid he is NBA ready by the end of junior year.  However, Early is different.  The more he played in college, the better he got.  He is no stranger to winning.  Wichita State ran the table this season and advanced to the Final Four a year ago. Phil likes a player that's used to winning.

After weeks of speculation Carmelo Anthony decided to remain with the Knicks.  Following a disappointing 37 win season, I doubt Carmelo would have returned to New York without someone of 

Phil ' s magnitude in the front office.  Carmelo appears ready for The biggest challenge of his basketball life.

Derek Fisher will go through growing pains as a head coach.  That comes with the territory.  Fisher seems comfortable in his new role thus far.  When you play on the highest stage as much as he did with the Lakers, you can't help but being confident. Some would even say Fisher is borderline arrogant. 

Phil was quick to point out Fisher's Youthful exuberance.  He's not much older than his players.  I see Fisher getting in a players face if need be. Fisher and Mike Woodson are like night and day.

The acquisition of Jose Calderon was key.  Calderon is a knock down shooter.  He will play an important role in the triangle offense.

Raymond Felton's days as a starter in this league are over, whether he believes it or not.  The Knicks were heavily outplayed at the Point Guard position last season.  I wish Felton all the best in Dallas, but his time in New York has been dreadful.  This divorce was badly needed.  Remember Brandin Knight's game winning three against the Bucks?

NBA

The Dallas Mavericks have added depth to their roster by signing veteran forward Rashard Lewis to a one year deal.  The Lewis addition is yet another key move by the Mav's front office to try and get back into the NBA Championship fold.  Lewis lead the Orlando Magic to their second NBA Finals appearance in 2009.  The Mav's roster is a blend of young and old players.  This move adds veteran leadership as well as another sharpshooter off the bench.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have agreed to terms with veteran forward Mike Miller.  Miller was a teammate of LeBron James during his first championship in 2012.  The Cav's have a young team.  Miller's presence is valuable in what Cleveland is trying to accomplish.  The Eastern Conference has no dominant team, Cleveland has as good a shot as any team to go to the NBA Finals.

Cleveland has thrown Andre Wiggins name in trade offers to acquire Kevin Love.  Even after the news of LeBron returning, the Cav's appeared adamant about holding on to their number one selection. Now that Love has shown interest in forming a trio with LeBron, Kyrie Irving and signing an extension, the trade talks have become more flexible.  Love averaged 26 points and 12 rebounds a contest last season.  He's proven he is the real deal.  Wiggins is a work in progress.  If letting him go is what it takes to bring Love to town, the Cav's need to pull the trigger.

RE2PECT!

Derek Jeter collected two hits in his 14th and final MLB All-Star appearance.  This marks the ninth time Jeter has started this game.  This was a bitter sweet moment for New York Yankee fans.  However, Jeter has spent his entire adult life giving his all to the Yankees organization.  It truly hurts my heart to see him go, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end.  Thank you Derek Jeter for giving New York every ounce of your being for 20 years.

  Jeter always gives 100% no matter what.  If crashing into the stands is what it takes, well so be it.  This is what being Yankee Captain is all about.

NYC HOOPS STAR FINDS NEW HOME

Lance Stephenson, the NBA's new bad boy has signed a three-year, $27 Million dollar contract to join the Charlotte Hornets.  This is a huge victory for Michael Jordan and company.  Stephenson was considered one of the best free agents on the market.  The Pacers offered him a five-year, $44 Million dollar contract to stay in Indiana.  Stevenson chose a shorter deal in hopes of cashing in two years from now.  The deal with Charlotte includes a third year team option.


Stephenson's antics last season certainly cost him some dollars.  The 23 year old has as bright a future as any Small Forward in the NBA.  Despite having a break out season,  the Pacers front office was split on bringing Stephenson back.


For the second consecutive year Michael Jordan has landed a significant free agent.  Al Jefferson helped the Hornets win 43 games last season.  With the addition of Stephenson Charlotte could possibly slip into one of the top four slots in the Eastern Conference.


Indiana will miss Stephenson's services this season.   He initiated the offense during the latter parts of last season.  George Hill probably isn't the best option at Point Guard.  The team struggled to score down the stretch.  Finding a way to get easy baskets has to be on top of their off season agenda.

Stephenson is no stranger to trouble dating back to his days as a prep star at Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn.  Hopefully a new home can help the young talent stay out of trouble.

Championship teams can use a player like Stephenson on their roster.  He brings an edge to the basketball game that you don't find in every player.

   

Farewell Derek

It seems like it was just yesterday when Alex Rodriguez moved over to third base, allowing Cal Ripken J.R to start his last MLB All-Star game at Shortstop.  Cal proceeded to hit the first pitch he saw that day clean over the left field wall.  The hit earned him MVP honors that day.


Derek Jeter joins Greg Nettles, Cal Ripken and Pete Rose as the only infielder to start an All-Star game at the age of 40.  The magic has always been there for Jeter in the Midsummer classic.  He is 11-25 in All-Star games, ranking him second all time amongst players with at least 15 plate appearances.  Don't be surprised if the captain comes up with another magical moment in his final All-Star appearance.


One year ago Jeter's good friend Mariano Rivera got the big send off from Citi Field.  At the time Jeter was rehabbing a broken ankle he suffered during the 2012 postseason.  Some fans maybe tired of Yankee players being serenaded in every city for a second consecutive season, but when you win as much as the core four did you earn the right to go out like a king.  Jeter will certainly be on his thrown in MLB's 2014 All-Star game.


All the individuals who say Jeter shouldn't be getting the starting nod need to remember one thing, the All-Star game is for the fans.  Jeter has been the face of baseball since Mark McGuire, Sammy Sosa, Rafael Palmeiro and dozens of other players disgraced the sport by ushering in an era marred by steroid use.


He is this generations Mickey Mantle in terms of the love affair the fans have with him.  Some would even compare him to the great Michael Jordan.  Five World Series Championships in the modern era makes him one of the most accomplished athletes alive.


Jeter never got the credit he deserved as a player during his prime.  America's love affair with the long ball could be the reason why.  The guy that did it the right way while many of his peers chose to cheat is making his last appearance on the games grandest stage.  Any sports fan that has a sheer appreciation for greatness should take the time out and watch Jeter's first at bat.

NBA shakeup in full swing

Paul Pierce has signed a two-year deal to become a member of the Washington Wizards.  The Wizards are a team with a bright future that could use some veteran leadership.  Bradley Beal and John Wall have the potential to be the best back backcourt in the NBA for years to come.  Pierce is a solid replacement after the departure of Trevor Ariza.  Ariza signed a four-year deal to join the Houston Rockets.  The Wizards starting five has the potential to be as good as any in the Eastern Conference.


Houston failed to match the Dallas Mavericks three-year, 45$ Million dollar offer on Chandler Parsons.  Parsons is one of the best young forwards in the NBA.  Dallas most certainly overpaid for Parsons, but his upside and the opportunity to match him up alongside Dirk Nowitzki bodes well for the Mavericks future.  Houston replaced Parsons by signing Ariza to a four-year, $32 Million dollar contract.  The addition of Ariza at a cheaper rate is considered a victory for the Rockets organization.


The Miami Heat signed Luol Deng to a two-year, $20 Million dollar deal.  Deng is still one of the best two-way players in the NBA.  He should fit in well with his new teammates in Miami.  Deng has pestered Miami's forwards for years.  Now he and Chris Bosh can form a formidable tandem in Miami's frontcourt.  Eric Spoelstra will have to keep Deng's minutes in check.  He logged heavy minutes for years in Chicago.  Deng will turn 30 years old this upcoming season.


The Chicago Bulls have signed Pau Gasol to a three-year, $22 Million dollar deal.  Pau won two championships during his time with the Los Angeles Lakers.  The Bulls hope the Spaniard can help them get over the hump the same way he did after joining the Lakers.  Chicago is still considered a heavy favorite in the Eastern Conference.  If Derrick Rose can stay healthy, Chicago may be as good as the team that lead the NBA in wins three years ago.


NBA General Managers are currently working hard to improve their teams.  Playoff teams from a year ago are making significant strides at improving.

Four reasons LeBron should have never left Cleveland!

1. If he fails to bring a ring to Cleveland he I'll still be a champion, but the fact that he had to jump ship makes him look worse than if he had stayed loyal and ringless.

2. Michael Jordan, Larry Bird and Magic Johnson never chased championships. Championships chased them.  That's who LeBron will ultimately be compared to.  Yes, those players played with immense talent, but neither one of those guys went and joined another man's team.  Miami will forever be Dwayne Wade town.

3. Cleveland lead the NBA in wins in back-to-back seasons.  Their playoff shortcomings were not solely based on a lack of talent.  LeBron and company failed to execute down the stretch.  It doesn't matter who a team has on paper.  You have to play well during big moments.  Something LeBron failed to do on multiple occasions as a member of the Cavaliers.

4. LeBron returning home has been speculated about ever since he left four years ago.  Cleveland is where his heart always was.  Why leave a team you know you would ultimately return to.  The entire situation could have been avoided.  Maybe the Cavaliers could already be hoisting up the Larry O'Brian trophy.

I'm coming home

Four years of anger, resentment and disappointment has turned to rejoice in the city of Cleveland.  After a four year hiatus, LeBron James has decided to return to the team he spent the first seven years of his career playing for.  The state of Ohio ' s son is returning home.

At one point they burned his jersey on the streets of Cleveland. Dan Gilbert called him a coward in the media. Now all is forgiven as LeBron attempts to bring Cleveland their first professional sports championship since 1964.  For so long the Ohio State Buckeyes have been the only winner in the state.  LeBron is returning with the intentions of changing that.

LeBron returning to Cleveland will cause a domino affect on the free agent market.  The Cavaliers now instantly become an intriguing destination for free agents around the NBA.  Mike Miller and Ray Allen could join him in Cleveland.  Both men helped LeBron in his quest to back-to-back titles in Miami.

The city of Miami has no valid reason to be bitter over LeBron ' s decision.  After four years and two championships I'd say they come out of this entire ordeal as winners.

Pat Riley isn't used to getting snubbed this time of year.  The future of the Miami Heat is uncertain. Dwayne Wade may not have what it takes to carry a team.  That part of his career is over.  LeBron ' s departure leaves Miami with the cap space available to sign a max free agent.

Cleveland is now a 4-1 favorite to win the 2015 NBA Championship.  Kyrie Irving and company have some work to do.  The power has shifted in a wide open conference.

Four years ago the relationship between LeBron and
Dan Gilbert seemed tarnished forever.  For these two men to put their differences aside for the better of Cleveland as a city showed high character on both parts.

Johnny Manziel is now the second biggest name in Cleveland.  He lost that title before ever stepping foot on an NFL field.

Only a king can generate that kind of respect.

summer NBA talk

While the NBA waits on Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James to decide where they will play basketball for the next few years, the NBA free agent carousel hasn't stopped.

The Miami Heat have attempted to add toughness to their roster.  They signed Danny Granger to a two-year deal worth $4.2 Million dollars.  At one point Granger was hated in South Beach.  He was the defensive catalyst when Miami knocked off Indiana during their first championship run.  Granger took a page out of Ray Allen ' s book by joining a team he had numerous playoff battles with in recent years. Granger was dealt at last years trade deadline for Evan Turner.  He wants to prove to the Indiana Pacers and the rest of the NBA something is left in those legs.

Pat Riley has been a pretty busy man This week. While attempting to woo LeBron back to Miami, he managed to sign Josh McRoberts to a four-year, $23 Million dollar deal to take his talents to South Beach.  Perhaps this is an insurance policy in case Chris Bosh decides to leave Miami. McRoberts is an athletic big with potential.  If he does get the opportunity to play with LeBron, some of those skills will be enhanced due to playing alongside such a talented player.

The Detroit Pistons have signed Jodie Meeks to a three-year, $19 Million dollar contract.  Meeks used the struggling Lakers to showcase his talents to potential suitors last season.  He averaged a career high 14.5 points a night last season.  Meeks definitely possesses the ability to score the basketball at a high rate.  He once netted 51 points as a collegiate back at Kentucky.  He may not get the same minutes, but Meeks could help Detroit compete for one of the lower playoff seeds in the Eastern Conference.

The Dallas Mavericks pulled off one of the biggest free agent signings this summer by agreeing to a three-year, $45 Million dollar deal with restricted free agent Chandler Parsons.  Parsons is one of the best young players in the NBA.  However, the Rockets have held off on giving Parsons an extension while they wait to see what Carmelo Anthony and Chris Bosh ' s next moves are.  If Parsons does indeed become a member of the Mavericks, Houston will be under a great deal of pressure to sign a power forward.

The Brooklyn Nets will pay a record $90 Million dollars in luxury taxes for the 2013-14 NBA season.
Only three teams have paid a cumulative total of $90 Million dollars in luxury taxes since it was introduced in 2001.  The Nets did it in one season. Billy King has to find a way to cut back spending in Brooklyn.  The Knicks finished second, paying a total of $36 Million dollars in luxury taxes.

When LeBron and Carmelo finally decide where their next home will be the smoke will clear and the future of the NBA will become more evident.

napping fan

During my years watching ESPN I've witnessed fans, coaches and even announcers become the center of a joke on many occasions.

A fan that was caught napping during a New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox telecast has filed a $10 Million dollar lawsuit in the Bronx against ESPN and the Yankees.

The Red Sox and Yankees rivalry may have lost some steam in recent years, but to fall asleep in this type of atmosphere against your vaunted rivals is embarrassing in itself.

The lawsuit claims the plaintiff suffered emotional distress and a possible loss of future income.  This all sounds like a ploy to get a pay day out of a billion dollar enterprise.

Real Yankee fans don't fall asleep when Boston is in town.

Is Bosh leaving South Beach

The biggest name in the NBA this off season has been Carmelo Anthony.  Most people would be shocked if LeBron James were to actually leave the Miami Heat.  Due to the Knicks disappointing season, you must respect Carmelo's decision to entertain offers from teams around the league.

Not only is the true center a lost art in the NBA, but the power forward slot is getting smaller everyday. Teams are finding success with smaller line-up 's. Brooklyn played  their best basketball of the season with Paul Pierce at the big forward slot. Something we've rarely seen from him in his career.  The Knicks won the Atlantic division a year ago with Carmelo primarily playing the four.

Due to the evolution of the game, a true power forward playing behind a dominant center can be a
deadly combination in today's league.  That kind of production up front is not seen often.

The Houston Rockets have reportedly offered Chris Bosh a four-year, $88 Million dollar contract.  Bosh is a native Texan.  Although the Rockets have been a front runner in the Carmelo sweepstakes, Bosh might be a better fit.  He was the glue the made everything stick during Miami ' s back-to-back title runs.

Bosh is a true team player.  He sacrificed all the numbers and accolades to be a part of something special in Miami.  The Heat cannot offer him the same money the Rockets have thrown on the table. Due an aging roster,  the Heat must keep cap space available to resign LeBron, Dwayne Wade and bring in another high profile player.  Miami definitely needs help.  The San Antonio Spurs dismantled what was left of a mini dynasty.

Bosh must decide whether playing alongside the best player in the world is worth passing up on the opportunity to make max dollars, return to your home state and join a deeper team.

From the outside looking in this is an easy decision. This time of year NBA players love having their ego's stroked.  Loyalty is out of the window.  If that was the case Bosh should have stayed in Toronto. If Bosh joins the Rockets they become automatic favorites to win the Western Conference.

Summer Ball

Summer ball is in full swing in NYC. Hoops in the Sun and Tri-state classic are two of the flagship tournaments in NYC and in the entire country for that matter.  If you feel your up for the task you should be ballin here. 

Kyrie signs extention

Four years ago the Cleveland Cavaliers lost the best player in franchise history to free agency.  The new trend in the NBA is to align yourself around maximum talent.  Kevin Love has all but told the Minnesota Timberwolves he has no plans of returning.  Perhaps the success Kevin Garnett has experienced post Minnesota has Love looking for a new home during the prime of his career.

At a certain point last season Kyrie Irving's future with Cleveland seemed up in the air.  The Cavaliers failed to meet high expectations early on.  Analyst had them penciled in as a playoff team.

After a disappointing season the Cavaliers found themselves in the lottery once again.  By a stroke of luck they received the number one selection for the third time in the last four years.  Andrew Wiggins was selected first overall this year.

Instead of playing out the last year of his deal and becoming an unrestricted free agent, Kyrie has decided to extend his stay in Cleveland by singing a five-year, $90 Million dollar extension.

Cleveland will be an interesting team to watch in years to come.  There are at least four players on the roster with the potential to be great.

Seeing a young player of Kyrie 's magnitude show loyalty is a good sign for the NBA.  Oklahoma City has built a championship caliber team from the ground up.  I see no reason why the Cavaliers can't do the same.

Free agency frenzy

July is officially here. NBA free agency is heating up just as fast as the weather.  Darren Collison has signed a three-year, 16$ Million dollar contract to move north and join the Sacramento Kings.  If the Kings hold on to Isaiah Thomas, the two will form a pesty combination at the lead guard position.  Don't be surprised if you see these two on the court simultaneously.

Brooklyn didn't take long to name a replacement for Jason Kidd.  The Nets hired Lionel Hollins to become their next head coach.  Hollins is no stranger to winning, leading the Memphis Grizzlies to the Western Conference Finals in 2012.  The Kidd situation was handled poorly on the former coaches part.  At this point the team wants to move on as quickly as possible.

The Indiana Pacers and C.J Miles have agreed to a four year deal.  Miles is a versatile player, but Indiana is deep at his position.  This could be an insurance move in case Lance Stephenson leaves Indiana.  Minutes might be hard to come by early on, but Miles can help Indiana come playoff time. He gained playoff experience during his years with the Utah Jazz.

The Golden State Warriors bulked up their back-court with the addition of Shaun Livingston. Livingston was a huge surprise for Brooklyn last year.  He showed why he was highly touted entering the league before suffering a devastating knee injury.  This addition allows Stephen Curry to slide over to the shooting guard and Klay Thompson to the three.  With this line-up Golden State can exploit mismatches around the league.  Great addition by the Warriors organization.  New head coach Steve Kerr will have plenty to work with.

The Toronto Raptors rewarded Kyle Lowry for a stellar season.  The 28 year old guard signed a four -year, 48$ Million dollar deal to remain north of the border.  Lowry has helped the Raptors get back to relevancy during his time with the organization. One of the most talked about names in free agency is staying put.

Free agency is officially here. The NBA shake-up is upon us.  Seems like this comes around every four years like the Olympics.

USA out in round of 16

For the second consecutive World Cup the U.S has been eliminated in the round of 16.  After holding off an explosive Belgium squad in regulation, the U.S gave up the go ahead score in the 93rd minute.  Back in 2010 the Americans World Cup dreams were stalled by a goal in the 93rd minute against Ghana.  The U.S is still on the outside looking in on the elite futbol nations.


Jurgen Klinnsman was hired three years ago to take the U.S to another level.  After capturing their group in 2010 and pushing Ghana to extra time in the round of 16, the U.S believed 2014 could be their year.  The U.S was lucky to get to extra time.  They were outclassed for 90 minutes by a superior Belgium squad.  Belgium controlled the pace of the match with their talented midfielders.  The U.S is still two or three players away from truly competing with a squad such as Belgium.  Every time you advance in the World Cup the matches get tougher.

Tim Howard played one of the best matches of his career.  He broke a 50 year old World Cup record of 15 saves.  Howard was all over the place, barking at his defenders while making world class stops.  The greatest part of Howard's performance was his humility.  He was above criticizing his teammates during his post game interview.  He chose instead to congratulate his squad for fighting down the stretch.  Howard deserves to be moving on in this tournament.

Romelu Lukaku's insertion for extra time was a difference maker in Belgium's attack.  His on ball strength led to Belgium's first strike.  He added the second score on a magnificent pass from Kevin De Bruyne which proved to be the match winner

The U.S could have used Landon Donovan.  Klinnsman's decision to leave the most popular figure in U.S soccer off the squad proved costly.  Donovan's creativity and heart could have helped the U.S break a scoreless tie in regulation.  It was Donovan that scored the crucial go ahead score to get America through group stages in 2010.  The opportunities were there late.  U.S strikers simply failed to put the ball in the net.

The U.S deserves credit for not going down without a fight.  Julian Green became the youngest American to score a World Cup goal with a beautiful strike in the 107th minute.  The score gave the U.S hope in the matches waning moments.  Oddly enough, America was able to control the games pace in the last ten minutes, creating multiple scoring opportunities.  Anyone that thinks Belgium wasn't on the ropes is sadly mistaken.  However, the  push proved to be too late, as Belgium hung on for the 2-1 victory.  Green will play a huge role in U.S Soccer in years to come.

The U.S can take a great deal from their experience in Brazil.  It is apparent the squad still lacks depth at certain positions to create more opportunities early in matches.  Their opening group was considered this years " Group of Death".  Some may beg to differ.  They were 30 seconds away from cruising through group stages before Portugal scored the latest regulation goal in World Cup history.  After that things got a bit too difficult for the U.S. 

In 2018 The U.S will be back.  Hopefully this time they can get past the round of 16 and beyond.