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I'm warning you.

(It only sounds dirty. Apparently.)

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Avery Johnson's wife involved in altercation with fans: The Association is going to have to do something about these type of situations. Not good for anybody...

DAN SHAUGHNESSY of the Boston Globe - Troubling ingredient in Hall vote: "Here's to hoping Barry Bonds retires, or confesses and asks our forgiveness......"

Deal makes Navy eligible for Meineke Car Care Bowl

Powerball Lottery sales soar in N.C. despite early glitches: "Despite a few glitches, sales for North Carolina's newly adopted Powerball lottery soared Tuesday alongside state lottery chief Tom Shaheen, who took off in a hot air balloon ride to promote the launch." Dang I'm glad we now have the lottery!!!

UVa hopes win boosts sport


The Headlines:

Gray has place in NBA; it just has to find him: "Of all the players the Charlotte Bobcats will audition before the NBA draft, only Justin Gray was a junior Charlotte Hornet. He wore No. 1 because his favorite Hornet, Muggsy Bogues, did."

Gray has workout with Bobcats: "When Justin Gray's agent asked him which NBA teams he wanted to audition for, one team immediately came to mind."

John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal: Gray, former WFU star, is looking for right fit

N.C. State center definite for NBA

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer - Lowe, Pack still aiming high: "The departure of Cedric Simmons will complicate Sidney Lowe's first season as N.C. State's coach, but it probably won't have a huge impact on the ACC basketball pecking order in 2006-07." Don't worry, Pack fans. It looks like you're going to have your coach at least a month sooner than most expected. State will be more than competitive next year.

Two basketball stars from Illinois visit Wake Forest

UVa. Notes from the Times Dispatch

Poised to pounce - "Clemson might lack top pro prospects, but the Tigers’ across-the-board talent and tenacious style make them special. THE MOST IMPRESSIVE feature of Clemson’s high-powered baseball team might be the absence of those knock-your-eyes-out impressive features."

UM to start Gil to open regional: "University of Miami baseball coach Jim Morris said Tuesday that he will start junior right-hander Danny Gil against the University of San Francisco in the Hurricanes' opening game of the NCAA regionals at 8:05 p.m. EDT on Friday in Lincoln, Neb."


ACC Football news from the Footblog:

Pro Football: Ex-Terrapin Among Two Redskins Signees

UVa lands lineman

ACC football on TV: Warm up the remote: "On Tuesday, The ACC released its preseason list of 18 football games to be televised during the first three weeks of the 2006 season -- plus ESPN's Thursday night package for the conference:"

FSU gets third night football game on TV: "Florida State fans anxiously waiting to make fall plans around Seminole football received only a small amount of help Tuesday."

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Virginia wins men's lacrosse title: "Cavs complete perfect season." Congrats to the Wahoos.

Tigers start on top: "Clemson takes its No. 1 seed in stride. A day after earning a crown, the Clemson baseball team was put on a pedestal. The Tigers were awarded the No. 1 national seed for the NCAA Tournament, making them the favorite to win the College World Series in Omaha, Neb."

Beasley thinks twice about sticking with Charlotte: "Assistant's departure figures in indecision. When Michael Beasley is at Oak Hill Academy, he sometimes gazes out at the Blue Ridge Mountains and thinks." Surprise, surprise.

Is it time for tire maker to hit road?: "What repaved track needs: Not too hard, not too soft." Michelin calls, Cup boys.

Veteran racing publicist pulls off the track: "Schoolfield a producer on NASCAR's first Grand National telecast. Hank Schoolfield says that it's not easy to retire. "And I'm not talking about the psychological part," he said. "I'm talking about the physical part. You have to work hard to quit."Schoolfield, a pioneer of area broadcast and print media whose business grew along with NASCAR racing, is packing up."

Court upholds firing of Nolan Richardson: "Former Arkansas coach loses appeal claiming dismissal was racially motivated." You really can't expect to get on TV and tell the world that your school is a racist institution and think you're going to survive it, can you?

Michael Wilbon: With Mourning, It's a New Day


The Headlines:

Report: Center done at NCSU: "N.C. State center Cedric Simmons, a rising junior and honorable mention All-ACC performer this past season, will remain in the NBA Draft and forfeit his remaining college eligibility, according to an ESPN.com report Monday." Not a bad move for Ced considering the weakness of this years draft and his level of play this season. He really only had two standout games this year. If he's got a first round promise from a team, he needs to take the money and run. Good luck to you, Mr. Simmons, and get that degree along the way.

Recruits mull after State lull: "Coaching search leads to indecision."

N.C. State loses recruiting steam without Sendek: "The N.C. State men's basketball program lost more than its head coach when Herb Sendek went to Arizona State. It also lost some future players."

State has a pillar in Towe: "Ex-Pack star's experience and enthusiasm will help new coach lay foundation."

The Pit seeks '83 'reunion': "Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer: It's not all set yet, but the state of New Mexico would like to bring Sidney Lowe and N.C. State's basketball team back to the scene of the Wolfpack's 1983 NCAA championship win."

Rick Maese of the Baltimore Sun - Williams still long distance from fixing Terps' woes

At Maryland, 2nd thoughts create worry: "One player reneged on his commitment and another recruit's father has concerns about the Terps, raising issues about the direction of the basketball program."

Tar Heels like staying home: "North Carolina will be among the 16 schools to host NCAA regionals."

UNC rewards Hatchell: "Coach's contract extended to 2011."


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Bob Lipper of the Richmond Times Dispatch on the state of ACC Football: Checkup time for The Conference.

Omar Kelly's Hurricane's Blog - "Where Are They Ranked? It's never too early to see where your team stacks up talent wise with the..."

Royce Gracie

If any of you are Ultimate Fighting Championship fans, here's a score you'll want to record. Gracie was TKOed after receiving 17 consecutive punches to the head from welterweight champion Matt Hughes.

A younger Gracie captured the hearts and minds of many as he forced submissions on much larger fighters. Hughes, a four time NCAA wrestling All-American was seemingly unimpressed.

I am surprised at this result because of Royce's (pronounced Hoyce) ability to manuever from the guard (or down) position. As with everything, I guess the changing of the guard (buh, dum, dum) is inevitable.

Not a Very Good Stand-In

Ed is unexpectedly away so I'm supposed to be filling his enormous shoes. As always, I hope you'll understand that I lack the ability to do so.

Here's something I found about the Duke rape allegations that I found interesting. Plenty of people are now stepping forward to ask whether DA Nifong's case really is that weak. Perhaps there is some smoking gun evidence that will prove the allegations true but waiting a year from the indictment before a trial doesn't seem to make much sense no matter the state of the evidence.

More later...

We're off today.........

Sorry Basketbloggers, but I have to jump on a plane to Tampa today. We'll try to see if we can get Mr. Birkel to post some tidbits this afternoon. In the interim......look at that picture of Peppers dunking on Wake. Wow.....

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC sports coverage!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Johnson in charge at LMS - "Cup career began with bittersweet day. Success, it would seem, has come easily to Jimmie Johnson at Lowe's Motor Speedway. It certainly has come in volume."

'Innocent' sweatbands will be worn: "Even after a tumultuous spring, the bond between the Duke men's and women's lacrosse programs remains as strong as ever." Mr. Chancellor and Coach Kimel, that's a really, really stupid PR move. Sit back, shut your collective mouths, and let the courts handle this situation!

Defense's beefs with accuser's story cited: "Sources close to the defense team in the Duke lacrosse rape case again tried to cast doubt on the accuser's credibility Tuesday, saying evidence collected so far points to problems with her story."

Three won't play lacrosse at Duke: "The uncertainty surrounding the future of the Duke men's lacrosse program led the school to grant its seven incoming freshmen clearance to explore other options, and so far three have accepted offers to play at other schools next season."

In toughest race yet, Barbaro up for fight: "Derby winner's surgeon says colt still showing signs of improvement after lengthy procedure." Yeahhhhhh Barbaro!!!

Raptors Win NBA Draft Lottery


The Headlines:

AFCA honors 9 in ACC: "Football teams make the grade." Where are you NC State, Georgia Tech and Miami? This is a more detailed story from Inside Carolina. That's great news for a great conference. Saw that only 1 SEC teams made the list, and Vandy was NOT the school. Try Auburn!!! That's interesting to me...

From the outstanding crew at StateFansNation: Carter Finley's Best Games. Get over there!

H.S. guard reneges on commitment to Maryland: "Jones was recruited by Terps assistant who left program."

Two top prospects opt for Cavaliers: "Gloucester's Taliaferro, Culpeper's Fells-Danzer give U.Va. commitments."

Lenox Rawlings of the Winston-Salem Journal: Winning the lottery to get the first pick in the NBA Draft has benefits beyond getting a top player

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: I'm hiding something....can you guess where?

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Lady Vols' Summitt Makes Contract History: "Pat Summitt is the newest millionaire coach -- and the first in women's basketball. Tennessee raised Summitt's salary Monday to $1.125 million for next season and extended her contract six years, through the 2011-12 season." That is well deserved!!!!!

Bobcats wouldn't mind not winning lottery: "Fifty-million foam-rubber index fingers can't be wrong: Everybody wants to be No. 1."

Who says Carolina's hockey fans aren't for real!?!?! Canes, Sabres fans face off; 6 arrested, 1 hurt:"The Stanley Cup playoffs have brought the Triangle a taste of major-league fan violence, as some Caniacs are finding out." You're not a real sports city until you have stupid fans act on their stupidity!!! Great.

Much ado about nothing: "NASCAR won't stand for rivalry."

David Steele of the Baltimore Sun: Barbaro's injury may be too much for racing to bear

Rape case divides a proud city: "Rape allegations at Duke University have a city reeling as leaders try to help mend a racial and class divide."

Defense seeking results of tests: "Lawyers representing an indicted Duke University lacrosse player Monday requested the results of any toxicology tests performed on a woman after she said she was raped at a team party."


The Headlines:

'Noles cut Kreft loose: "Four days after he was arrested on drug charges, Jon Kreft's scholarship was rescinded from Florida State on Monday." Some how, we missed this story last week. Colin provided the link for us to the original piece yesterday in the comments section. Mr. Kreft gets the first the Fred G. Sanford award of the summer.

2006 ALL-ACC TEAM in Baseball. There....we covered baseball season.

U.VA. NOTES: "SOUTH BEND-BOUND? In an unexpected move, assistant Gene Cross is expected to leave Virginia and basketball coach Dave Leitao to join Mike Brey's staff at Notre Dame." Wow....

Gailey gets trip back to past: "The first topic of the day when the college football coach walked into the gym?"

Omar Kelly's Hurricane football blog: UM Nuggets Seven: "I'm generally the first to admit when I'm wrong - as long as you're not my..."

Euwell to join Wolfpack: "SouthWest player shuns UNC, ECU."

More from Birkel in the PM........

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Toyota's on pace to enter Nextel Cup

Barbaro survives surgery: "Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro underwent more than five hours of surgery Sunday to repair three broken bones in his right rear leg and afterward "practically jogged back to the stall," the colt's surgeon said."

Love, not money, is factor in bid to save horse's life

Andrew Beyer of the Washington Post: Injured Elite Horses In a Cast System

Sutton retires as coach at Okla. State

Terps earn stripes, finally oust Tigers: "Maryland ends Princeton hex, returns to final four."

No. 1 Virginia routs Georgetown defense


The Headlines:

Tech keeps victories, but not scholarships: "The NCAA approved Georgia Tech's appeal to have its football records returned for a six-year period Thursday but denied the school's request to have football scholarship limits restored to a normal level."

Hurricanes' focus remains on locals: "Never mind that all four of Miami's early commitments for the football team's 2007 signing class are from out of state. Coach Larry Coker wants South Florida's players and coaches to know they remain UM's top priority.

From the Omar Kelly Hurricane Blog- Coker Rebuttal - Part 2: "It is common knowledge that Miami has higher academic standards than the NCAA'......" If you missed Part I, click here

Florida Sports Buzz Coker pleased by staff: "As he speaks to alums statewide, UM football coach Larry Coker knows only a great season will convince doubters he was right to replace five assistant coaches in the past seven months. But Coker believes dynamics already have changed for the better."

NCAA doesn't need to expand tournament

NCAA takes party line to outlaw football fun

Bob Ryan of the Boston Globe - It should not be a cross to bear: "No, no, no, says Boston College director of athletics Gene DeFilippo. It's not forever. It's temporary, I tell you, temporary.
''Holy Cross," he insists, ''is a team we will play again." Just not this coming season. Or the next. For at least two years, Boston College will not be playing its supposed Jesuit soul mate, Holy Cross, in basketball. Say it isn't so, guys."

No coaches, but camp boosts Tigers: "Nike Camp in Clemson won’t have an audience but results can still boost player’s stocks."

Kicker Wooten is UNC bound: "Scotland County specialist commits to play for Heels."
Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer - Davis may not stick to sidelines: "Jay Davis isn't into self deceit. The ex-N.C. State quarterback is still locked in on the same profession -- coaching -- he's pursued for years."

Tigers prowl for a second quarterback

More from Birkel in the pm.......

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: Oliver Purnell is the new President. His message: "trust me."

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

All-star race for Hall of Fame?: Say it ain't so, but I think it is.

Lacrosse case goes to court

Duke player silent in court; judge won't reduce bond

Defense gets accuser's phone data: "A judge agreed Thursday to let the defense try to find out what information is on the cell phone of the exotic dancer who has accused three Duke lacrosse players of rape, and also ordered police to preserve their notes in the case."

Test: Boyfriend likely sperm source: Don't you just have to believe that the DA has something more than he has told the public so far? Don't you?!?!?

Student leaders at Duke, NCCU work to forge bonds: "While much of the news coverage of the Duke lacrosse case has highlighted differences between Duke and N.C. Central University, student leaders at both campuses have been laying the groundwork for closer collaboration in the future."

Racism In Soccer: U.S. will field one of the most diverse teams at the World Cup in Germany

MEAC's Minority Rule: "In Historically Black Conference, Non-Blacks Fill Baseball Rosters." We're seeing this trend more and more at the college I work for as well. Improved academics and facilities are drawing in a diverse student body like never before.


The Headlines:

Mr. president would like an expansion of trust: "He used to be Coach, but these days you can refer to Oliver Purnell as Mr. president." Good read....I like his ideas!

Tech can keep '98 ACC title: "Jackets won't lose football records, but NCAA cuts scholarships."

ACC does Charlotte a disservice: I like tradition and Greensboro is ACC tradition. However, having attended the CIAA tournament in Charlotte this year for the first time, I must say that it was an entirely different (and MUCH better) experience compared to tournament sites in Winston-Salem and Raleigh. Once the ACC gets through this round, they may want to consider a 2 for 1 split between Greensboro (2 years) and a rotating basket of alternate sites in "off" years (Charlotte, Atlanta, Boston, DC). Don't agree???? Take it to the comments section.

Lennox Rawlings of the Winston-Salem Journal: Complaints from ACC basketball not logical

University checking on report of hazing: "Photos of women's volleyball team at WFU posted on Web." See pictures from multiple university hazing parties at badjocks.com

Banks tells high school students to keep the faith: "Former Duke basketball star Gene Banks shot a simple message to the crowd at the Durham Sports Club's annual Scholar-Athlete Award Banquet on Thursday night: "Pray on it.""

Omar Kelly Blog on the Hurricanes

Scouting the ScenaryAt one point during my scouting of Nick Fanuzzi Saturday I found myself saying...

and

Coker's Rebuttal - Part 1Dislike the delivery or the man who is delivering it, but it's downright...

Terps Q&A with Heather A. Dinich: "Baltimore Sun reporter discusses Maryland football, basketball."

Hokie Notes from the Times Dispatch


News from the Association:

Brand, Maggette shine as Clippers tie series vs. Suns


More from Birkel in the PM.....

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Lawyer urges accuser's kin to stop statements: "After almost daily appearances on national television, the family of the woman accusing three Duke lacrosse players of rape is being urged to take a lower profile. Lawyer Mark Simeon plans on cutting off the family's frequent statements to the media." That may be a smart move...

Race has a place in Duke case: " How do I put this delicately? Victoria Peterson is an unusual woman....."

Lawyers question dancer's plea deal in '02: "Defense lawyers suggested Wednesday that the District Attorney's Office may have shown favoritism as early as 2002 to an exotic dancer who claimed she was gang raped during a Duke University lacrosse party in March."

Limelight shines on pit crews - Jack man for car driven by Truex Jr. steals spotlight. "Jeff Kerr practiced for the inaugural NASCAR Nextel Pit Crew Challenge last year, but didn't get to compete." Nice that they get some exposure for the work they put in.

NASCAR shows drive for diversity.

Interesting read from South Carolina and the SEC - Weighing in: "USC ponders whether changing its season-ticket policy to boost revenue is worth alienating longtime football fans who might get squeezed out."


The Headlines:

Brackman's season is over: "N.C. State right-hander has stress fracture in his left hip." Coach Lowe, you better get that kid some rest and good treatment, my friend.

Strickland joins Lowe's staff: "Sidney Lowe, N.C. State's new basketball coach, continues to fill out his staff."

Whispers From Cameron:"With the offseason upon Blue Devil Hoops faithful and the recruiting class of 2007 unlikely to yield any commitments in the near future, it would seem like there’s some downtime for Duke fans. Perhaps for the casual fan, but not for those diehards anxious for the next era in Blue Devil history to begin. TheDevilsDen.com provides fans an inside look at what’s happening inside Cameron in this edition of Whispers."

Greensboro has seats, gets tournaments - Charlotte not in mix as ACC awards events to cities with high-capacity arenas. "Charlotte was left out and Greensboro was the big winner Wednesday when ACC officials voted to award men's basketball tournament sites from 2011 through 2015." That stinks for Charlotte, especially since city officials conferred with the ACC before the construction of the building and were led to believe that they would have a realistic chance of getting more than one event. Guess not.....

ACC hoops come home; baseball tries Beantown: "While the ACC baseball tournament is expanding into new territory, the men's and women's basketball tournaments will remain at more traditional sites -- at least for now."

UVA. NOTES: "LATE ADDITION? Calvin Baker dreams of playing basketball in the ACC, and he'd like to do so for Virginia....."

Hokie Notes - 2nd firm sues Turner over Tech stadium

Hokies Lead For Nosal: "Although a somewhat unknown in the media recruiting circles, Greg Nosal has been a major target of Virginia Tech’s since the beginning of the 2007 recruiting season. "

Top-10 BC Alums to Play in the NFL: "When the New York Giants selected Mathias Kiwanuka with the last pick in the first round, it got me thinking. What’s his potential at the next level? Here's the first five of ten players he'll need to leapfrog if he wants to be considered the best BC alum to ever play in the NFL. "

Vick has a deal but is not a sure thing in Miami

More from Birkel in the PM.........

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: Old school Bruce Smith.

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Lie detector report released:"In a lie-detector examination he apparently passed, indicted Duke University lacrosse player David Evans said not only that he didn't assault the accuser, but also that he didn't see or hear anyone else assault her, nor does he know about anyone else assaulting her."

Duke case follows no ordinary game plan:"Claims of 'fantastic lies' just latest odd turn in a rape investigation full of them."

ABC to start Saturday night college football

He brings out the best in Canes' ice: "RBC Center building superintendent Donnie MacMillan lives 200 feet from his workplace and spends his days and nights tending the ice. He is one of two men who drives the ice-resurfacing machine at Hurricanes games." Always got to post it when they actually write a story about the Zamboni guy.

Michael Wilbon: The Knicks As Theater of the Absurd


The Headlines:

College Hall sets Smith for induction:"Ex-Virginia Tech defensive tackle won the Outland TrophyBruce Smith yesterday added another hall-of-fame honor to his prestigious portfolio. The for- mer Virginia Tech defensive tackle was elected to the College Football Hall of Fame."

Former UM safety Blades to be enshrined:"Learning he will become only the third player from UM to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame left former Canes safety Bennie Blades in awe."

New rule opens Hall to Paterno, Bowden

Headed to the hall: "Bobby Bowden was never in a hurry to be inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. He had always understood the criteria to be inducted meant that the 76-year-old Florida State football coach either had to retire - or worse."

Cavs mourn passing of Blackburn:"The former coach, 93, was the first to sign black players to football scholarships at UVa.

Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer - Bobcats, Brown far from match: "So Larry Brown might be available once more as an NBA coach, if the New York Knicks decide to buy out his contract after one awful season." Look, if you're the terrible Charlotte Bobcats and Larry Brown has two teams paying him around $30 Million in "please leave" money.......you let him coach your team if he wants to!!! He would put butts in the seats and, hey, you can't do much worse than Bernie Bickerstaff.....please.

Ralph Sampsons in trouble. See bottom of this article.

Colon chooses K-State over UM

Tech-Irish goes prime time:"Season opener kicks off new college football weekly series on ABC."

Texans' Williams enjoys super start:"Ex-N.C. State star fits in with Houston."

No. 1 Draft Pick Williams Joins Texans: "Mario Williams was headed to a meeting, then turned to see the throng of reporters that had followed him across the practice field."

Pope's window of opportunity: "Former UNC and American soccer star Eddie Pope, 32, is focused on his third, and likely final, appearance on the grand stage that is the World Cup. U.S. coach Bruce Arena expects Pope to compete for a starting position when the team opens against the Czech Republic in Germany on June 12. "

More from Birkel in the PM.....

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage !!!!

PHOTO: Duke graduate and Lax Captain David Evans stands up!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Swofford: 1 year in, big ACC a big hit - Football, finances on rise; some concerned about men's basketball: "ACC Commissioner John Swofford started the league's spring meetings Monday morning by describing the results of expansion as "extraordinary.""

Tudor says a Stanley Cup trophy for the Hurricanes will be as big in North Carolina as the Tar Heels National Championship: Hurricanes a huge hit -- locally. Don't agree??? Take it to the comments section.

Georgia sobering up its party-hard image

Bonds feeling haunted by the Babe:"Catching a ghost turned out to be no easier on the road than it was at home. At least not for Barry Bonds."

NASCAR Might Be Wise to Switch to Ethanol:"Mashed-up corn is heated to produce vapor, which condenses into grain alcohol. Sound familiar, NASCAR old-timers? It's the recipe for moonshine, the largely forgotten foundation of a sport that has moved from backwoods to big time."

Stock-car rivals nervously wait for Toyota's debut:"Toyota seems to be playing the NASCAR game almost perfectly in just about every aspect except public relations."


The Headlines:

Rape count lodged against lacrosse captain:"A day after graduating from Duke University, former lacrosse captain David Evans was indicted Monday and promptly professed his innocence on three felony charges stemming from the alleged gang rape of an exotic dancer during an off-campus party in March."

Statement by David Evans

David Evans' background lacrosse-filled:"David Evans came to Duke University from a prep program known for producing lacrosse leaders. Landon School in Bethesda, Md., a suburb of Washington, went 56-2 over Evans' three varsity seasons, including a pair of mythical national championships based on national polls."

Defense team wants rape evidence quickly:"Lawyers for accused Duke lacrosse player Reade Seligmann want a judge to hold hearings Thursday on whether to compel police and prosecutors to turn over the evidence they've compiled while investigating the alleged gang rape. "

Behind the scenes, UM's Diaz transformed:"In an all-out effort to be a first-round selection, former UM star Guillermo Diaz takes on a grueling regimen of skills training." Good for him...he's got the talent to be very good on the next level.

Dolphins give Vick a chance

Football Tigers ranked 12th in Athlon

Uphill battle for ex-Jacket
Henderson aims to prove he's NFL-ready, despite injuries.

More from Birkel in the PM.......

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Pack wins softball crown:"MVP Shaina Ervin pitches NCSU past Florida State." The program has only been around for 3 years. Not bad, Pack...not bad at all.

Brand Stands Tall
Elton Brand carries the Clippers on Sunday with 30 points, nine rebounds and eight assists as L.A. beats Phoenix, 114-107, to even their series at 2-2.

Grand jury may consider new charges in Duke case:"A Durham grand jury is scheduled to meet today, and the session could mean new charges in the investigation of a reported rape at a Duke lacrosse team party."

Last call for 'Cocktail Party': "Georgia president doesn't like term for annual Bulldogs-Gators game, sees it as insensitive." I'm all for being PC, but doesn't this go a bit far......


The Headlines:

Ex-Coastal coach Strickland joins Lowe:"Pete Strickland, a former head coach at Coastal Carolina, has joined Sidney Lowe's new basketball staff at N.C. State."

Sendek's new challenge:"Former N.C. State coach starts with a 'blank canvas' at Arizona State."

Louisiana post player commits to Cavaliers

Recruiting Tigers eye out-of-state linemen -

Sources: Knicks to replace Brown as coach: wow......

ACC's finances on solid footing


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Terps Q&A with Heather A. Dinich


News from the League:

Parker getting more attention: "Super Bowl record, Bettis' retirement puts Steelers runner in spotlight."

More from Birkel in the PM.....

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO Recap

Floyd Patterson, dead at age 71- Patterson fought good fight: "The important thing to remember about Floyd Patterson, beyond his historic place in boxing history, is not that he went down so often, but that he got up so many times."

Despite size, a heavyweight champ

Back to basics for soccer team: "Quietly, the U.S. men's soccer team opened training camp Thursday in Cary and went through an unremarkable practice. The frenzy of the June World Cup is still weeks away."

Lighting the way: "Night racing breathes new excitement into Darlington Raceway" Those folks down there may as well give it up. When that NYC track opens up, Darlington is going the way of Rockingham and North Wilkesboro....done. Great place to watch a race, but they're done.

Is what's best for Barry also best for Giants? : "Out at the ballpark, the whiff of desperation is starting to mingle in with the scent of garlic fries."

Michael Wilbon - It's Still Black or White: "Barry Bonds's quest to pass Babe Ruth has become an open forum on steroids, media coverage, Ruth's iconic status and, of course, race. And race is never the least of it."

Who had it tougher?: "Blow-by-blow comparison says Bonds over Ruth, by a long shot." Don't agree??? Take it to the comments section.


The Headlines:

Heels to play herein NIT's 1st round - "North Carolina and Winthrop will come to Charlotte Bobcats Arena on Nov. 14-15 for a revamped NIT Season Tip-Off that will put Charlotte on a national stage at the beginning of the college basketball season."

UNCW will play in NIT Season Tip-Off: That's big news for the Seahawks who were, perhaps, the third best team in North Carolina last year.

NIT Season Tip-Off gets new format

Duke, Gonzaga to meet

Pack: Recruit can look around

Change may beget change: "Recruits study their options after N.C. State chooses its new basketball coach."

Herb Sendek off to fast start at ASU

Fredrick to play for South Carolina: Well....Nobody could see that one coming, now could they?


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Virginia Tech sets up series vs. Nebraska

From Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog:

Larry Blustein Unfiltered - Part I: Every time I start asking around about one of South Florida's top prospects I........
Blustein's Back - Unfiltered II: I know you've come back for more of that good stuff from Larry Blustein, the.......

Good stuff

From the Roanoke News Press Box Blog: Huskers and Hokies

Cavs to be heard on FM dial locally

More from Birkel in the PM.......

Can't Resist

I know I've been away for some while but I've got perfectly valid excuses reasons. So I'm back today with this little tidbit that I found quite funny.

That's it. Simple. You can add or drop your celebs each Monday. Like maybe you want to dump Jake Gyllenhaal (because the whole "Brokeback" thing has played out) and grab Josh Hartnett (because he's dating Scarlett Johansson). Then again, you might want to hang on to Gyllenhaal. He's single and his number might be up in the (Lindsay) Lohan deli line.

Love it! The. Lohan. Deli. Line.

Tee hee hee.

Anyway, the article is about the obsession some of us have with fantasy sports. I'm only a fantasy football guy myself. Baseball and basketball just take too much time. But Bill Simmons, the author of the linked piece, has a serious problem. We're talking John Daly proportions.

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

Pure Viewing and Listening Entertainment: For all of you cats who want to see what happens to professional school students who get stressed, check out my classmate (not really, but he looks a heck of a lot like a guy I was in undergrad and law school with) who does a quite credible version of the rapper Fabolous' "Breathe", newly titled "Read". Quite entertaining....he even gets some profs and the Dean involved

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Petty happy for Darlington - Veteran wishes only for better showings on the famed speedway: "There are many Nextel Cup drivers who will wax poetic about the history and traditions of Darlington (S.C.) Raceway."

Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer: Leaving mark isn't always a good thing

Lacrosse defense witness arrested: "A Durham police detective investigating the Duke University lacrosse case arrested an alibi witness Wednesday on a 2 1/2-year-old misdemeanor warrant. Taxi driver Moezeldin Elmostafa said police asked whether he had anything new to tell them about the rape case."

Duke case hard to unclutter: "We want it to be neat. We want it tied up in a tidy package that tells the world, yes, this is what happened, and this is what it means."

Bowl games in Canada? Give me a break....why not just make teams that are 5-6 eligible too, and let's just get that nonsense over with. Having said that....Toronto is a really cool place to visit!!!

Virginia perfectly capable of 17-0: "Great mix of offense, defense makes Cavs heavy NCAA favorite."


The Headlines:

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer - Pack betting on Lowe: "N.C. State's decision to hire Sidney Lowe as its men's basketball coach was a gamble." Now that Lowe/Fowler have made two smart safety net type hires for the staff.......I'm actually kind of starting to like the look of things. Nothing like having two leaders from your championship teams on the bench to show the young men what can be accomplished. Now, let's get the other piece taken care of, Coach, so that you can truly represent the complete package to the students, parents, and fan base! I think you guys out to hire The Skywalker as your "jump" coach. That guy had springs like no other.

But...the bad news - Wolfpack recruit asks for release: "N.C. State basketball recruit Dan Werner, the New Jersey player of the year this season, has requested a release from the letter of intent binding him to State, Werner's father said Wednesday night." If he wants to go, let him go. Gotta build with folks who want to be in Raleigh.

Hiring Harris `essential' to Wolfpack's transition

Standout Wallace transferring from Glenn: "Sought-after forward going to Hargrave Military Academy Last summer, Eric Wallace considered transferring from Glenn to an Ohio high school but decided to stay put.But now it appears that Wallace, a standout 6-6 junior forward and the Winston-Salem Journal's Frank Spencer Award winner the past two seasons, is, indeed, leaving Glenn." I hear lots of different things about this kid. Great student, but has developed into somewhat of a lazy player....developing like Chris Hobbs did in high school: He peaked so early and the rest of his class caught him and passed him during his Sr. year....good player, but never the beast he looked like he was going to be in the 10th grade. We shall see.

FSU athletics looks ahead to 2006-07: "Florida State basketball fans will pay slightly more for their tickets during the 2006-07 season, but it will remain the best deal in the ACC."

Terps' Williams Again Searching for Assistant

Chuck Driesell is candidate for assistant job with Terps: "Son of Lefty Driesell would replace assistant coach Rob Moxley."


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

SECOND CHANCE at UVa? "Of the football players who were academically suspended from U.Va. this school year, cornerback Philip Brown is the most likely to be re-admitted for 2006-07."

More from Birkel in the PM.......

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: Throw it down, big fella!!!

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Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Duke based initial gang-rape reactions on campus officer who eavesdropped on call: "A March 14 Duke Police Department report that downplayed gang-rape allegations against the school's lacrosse team stemmed from what a Duke officer overheard while listening to a Durham Police Department sergeant's cell phone conversation, City Manager Patrick Baker said Tuesday." Not good.....

NASCAR pioneer sees few follow up: "Crowd gathers at track to mark 30-year anniversary."

Tom Sorensen of the Charlotte Observer- Teammate just theory for Kobe: "Does anybody still think Kobe Bryant is NBA MVP? Oh yeah? Well did you see Phoenix pound Kobe and the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round of the playoffs?"

A-10 offers little satisfaction to 49ers

Young draws 50-game penalty: "Fifty games without pay. That's the punishment International League president Randy Mobley gave Durham Bulls outfielder Delmon Young on Tuesday. Young has been on indefinite suspension since throwing a bat that hit a plate umpire during an April 26 game at Pawtucket."

Bonds and Ruth

Free throws are easy? Tell it to Shaq: "In every basketball gymnasium and on every playground there's one fundamental distance that denies no one -- 15 feet of universal freedom. The concept of a free throw is a beautiful thing."

Curry, S. Smith, Bilas team up


The Headlines:

McRoberts, Thomas give Duke hope for next season: "Duke basketball rarely takes a back seat to anything in these parts, but it has over the last month."

Tech player triumphs over tragedy: "Coleman Collins accomplished his goal of graduating from college early. His only regret is that his father didn't get to celebrate with him."

AD's quest nets Lowe: "Coaching search kept Fowler busy."

Grant's residency hearing put off: "Federal officials agreed Tuesday to postpone a hearing scheduled to help determine the immigration status of N.C. State basketball player Gavin Grant, the Wolfpack sophomore's lawyer said."

Men's basketball coaching changes: Nice stuff!


News from the Association:

A RARE GEM: Bristow not surprised by Paul's success


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Gators’ recruitment of Spiller was on up and up: "Clemson RB’s talks with Tebow found to follow prior friendship."

On the run: "For Dave Odom and Tommy Bowden, a daily jog provides much more than escape and exercise."

Ex-'Nole may get $40M from Broncos: "Former Seminole Javon Walker is set to sign a five-year extension worth more than $40 million with the Denver Broncos, who acquired the wide receiver in a draft-day deal." Good for him....I thought his QB really screwed him last year while he was trying to negotiate his contract. Glad he's back from the injury and all appears to be well.

Warrick no longer 'The Man': "Peter Warrick thought his lifeless career was about to be jump-started - just as he had hoped months before at the Super Bowl."

Jackets cash in on visit by Irish: "The AJC's Terence Moore says the Notre Dame opener provides a rare gate opportunity."

Auburn QB transferring to Tech

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The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

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Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Paul will be named top rookie in NBA: " Former West Forsyth, WFU star has helped turn Hornets aroundChris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets, who led all first-year players in points, assists, steals and other categories, will be named the NBA's Rookie of the Year. The official announcement will be made Wednesday, according to an NBA source who spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity." Well Deac fans, it looks like Mr.Paul did, indeed, make the right decision after all. What a season for that kid. Great job, and congrats from the Basketblog.

NCAA sends out warning: "NBA-bound underclassmen must sign pledge they understand rules."

Caniacs aren't brainiacs: "If you live in the Carolinas and follow the Hurricanes, it's pretty much guaranteed that your puck knowledge has been questioned by hockey sophisticates from more frigid and French-speaking locales."

Violations at OU could cost Sampson at IU: "Indiana University would not have to pay any penalty to new basketball coach Kelvin Sampson if the school were to fire him because of NCAA sanctions stemming from recruiting violations while he was at Oklahoma." Not a good way to get started, coach.

Lacrosse captain is fined on charge: "Judge reinstates 2 deferred counts."

Study: Cops took rape case lightly: "Duke University leaders were too slow to respond to rape allegations involving the men's lacrosse team because Durham police officials said they doubted the accuser, a report on Duke's handling of the crisis says. Duke President Richard Brodhead requested the review. "


The Headlines:

Barry Saunders of the Raleigh News and Observer - Hiring Lowe is a big deal: "Hey, don't y'all break your arms patting yourselves on the back over there in Wolfpack land."

Pack signee: I want to meet Lowe

From the Technician (Sorry I missed this) - Lowe receives warm welcome: "A homecoming welcome awaited new N.C. State basketball coach Sidney Lowe as he entered Paul Derr Track on Saturday night. And for Lowe, the point guard for the school's 1983 national championship team, it was a sight to see. "I can't explain how touching it is for me to see all of you here," Lowe said as he addressed the near-capacity crowd through a megaphone."

Focus turns to whether Simmons will return: "Cedric Simmons figured all the attention would be on N.C. State's new men's basketball coach. Not so. In fact, N.C. State's center became the center of attention at one point Saturday at Dail Basketball Center." That's going to be a very tough call for the big man. He really only had one standout performance last year (Duke) and the experts are telling him he may very well be a lottery pick. That's a tough call for him. Ced, if you like school and you think you can get better under Lowe (my preference for young Cedric), stay in school. If you think that perhaps you're not quite as good as these NBA types think you are and you really need to strike while the iron is blazing, take the leap. Hopefully, you return and you retain all of your top recruits so the other Basketbloggers don't have to listen to a year of excuses from Packland. At the end of the day, do what's best for you!

Grant faces immigration hearing

Lefty’s son up for asst. coach spot: "Lefty’s son could become Terps’ new right-hand man."

Hewitt among USA Basketball coaches

Doug Doughty of the Roanoke News - Questions abound as academic year ends: "It’s a numbers game for football, men’s basketball coaches"

Tim Stevens of the Raleigh News and Observer - "Duke recruits measure up." Was there ever any doubt?

One year down, plenty more to come: "In less than a month, Boston College will have been a member of the revamped ACC for a year. After accepting an invitation in 2003 and officially joining the upper-echelon athletic conference on July 1, 2005, much was made about BC adding the ACC logos to Alumni Stadium and the hardwood inside Conte Forum."

Wrapping up year one: how did BC do?: "The 2005-2006 athletic year was memorable in many sports at Boston College. Here's a quick look back at the highs and lows in each sport. Basketball: Those who played on the hardwood enjoyed possibly the most success of any sport."


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Column: Marcus Vicks on-field skills can't hide his off-field shenanigans: "Suzy Kolber made me laugh a little bit on Sunday. I have to admit, I watched the second day of the NFL Draft, the day for die-hard football fans...."

Phelon Jones Unfiltered: "Alabama is the one state all three of Florida's football powers can barely make a dent in, much less steal the state’s top prospect from right out of Auburn or Alabama's clutches. But it seems the Hurricanes have managed to snatch a blue-chipper from the good ole country boys."

Ravens' Lewis heads Hall class: "In an emotional ceremony, star linebacker Ray Lewis and six others were inducted into the University of Miami Hall."


News from the League:

Former FSU wideout Warrick now just a guy in Seahawks' mix

Surprising Drop for Hokies' Williams: Sorry about missing this story last week. Good read.

Tapp quick to impress 'Hawks: "Seattle coach Mike Holmgren says he loves the Virginia Tech defensive end's constant "motor."

Finding a worthy role: "Former Terp Foxworth tries to enrich his life and others’ in NFL.
The first sentence of Domonique Foxworth’s new book is all one needs to understand how much the former Terrapin football player differs from the typical gridiron grunt. He quotes Helen Keller, whose description of the “tiny pushes of . ."

Georgia Tech: Ex-CB Houston signed by Bucs

More to come from Birkel.....

North Carolina Football, on the Cusp of Something Big???

According the Sporting News, the Tar Heels are close. I've heard that before. Don't agree? Take it to the comments section

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

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Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO Recap

NCAA Lax News: UM gets 2nd seed behind Virginia

Rick Maese of the Baltimore Sun write a great one, about the Greatest of all Time: Like Ali's life, a lifelong dream takes a sad turn near the end. Powerful read!

Hokies' Beamer gets rush from NASCAR


The Headlines:

Lowe hopes his academic story inspires players: "Right before Sidney Lowe officially becomes the men's basketball coach at N.C. State, he officially will graduate from college." This is the wrong message

Wendell Murphy, chairman of the N.C. State Board of Trustees, seconded Fowler's opinion but added that legendary coach Everett Case also was challenged to finish his own degree. Taking summer-school courses from 1918-1923, Case first earned a teaching certificate, then worked on his college degree from the University of Wisconsin while also coaching high school basketball. N.C. State Chancellor James Oblinger pointed out that finishing a degree as an adult isn't a unique experience. One-third of college students in the U.S. are adult learners, Oblinger said.

Excuses, spin, and hair splitting. On the other hand, this quote from Lowe himself is the right message

"The feeling I have right now knowing I'm going to have my degree is a feeling I've never had before," Lowe said Saturday while being introduced as the 18th men's basketball coach at State. Lowe pointed to where his mother, Carrie Lowe, was sitting with his three children at the Dail Basketball Complex and said he was glad he could fulfill the dream for both of them. "I always told him, 'What's going on with your degree? OK, get to it.' " Carrie Lowe said of her youngest child, who will be the first of her seven children to graduate from college. "That's all the pressure I put on him. I constantly reminded him that he needed that degree."

Good for you, Mrs. Lowe, and good for you, Coach, for acknowledging that you didn't work as hard as you should have. That's the message to your players: Don't do it like I did it if you don't have to. Work hard and do it the right way the first time. Good luck to you, Coach. You have the fans on your side. Don't let them down.

Lowe's focus on studies personal: "When Sidney Lowe preaches the value of education to his players, he won't have to stretch far for an example to prove his point." Another good message from the coach about academics

"My vision for our team and this school is we want to do it on both ends," said Lowe, the starting point guard on the Wolfpack's 1983 NCAA championship team. "We want to do it in the classroom, and we want to do it on the floor. That takes a lot of commitment."

Good work!

N.C. State officials defend Lowe: "Chancellor credits coach's work toward degree while working for NBA teams."

Caulton Tudor of the News and Observer: What about Whittenburg? "N.C. State's decision to hire favorite son Sidney Lowe as its next basketball coach is important and historic."

Lowe at ripe age for coaching

Keys To Success

Lowe set to begin cramming: "In more than two decades as an NBA player, broadcaster, assistant coach and head coach, Sidney Lowe has been more of a boss than a mentor, managing multi-millionaires rather than schooling students. "

Towe returns to N.C. State: "Former Pack player and assistant takes associate head coaching job. University of New Orleans men's basketball coach Monte Towe is headed back to his alma mater."

Lowe wants Pack to run........ to class, so that they can get that diploma!!!

Recruiting to be a big Lowe priority

New Pack coach has often proved doubters wrong


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

A new Sims ready to hit Detroit: "In his bedroom at his parents' house, Ernie Sims reached into his closet. He pulled out a football jersey, a Detroit Lions jersey, a throwback Billy Sims No. 20 he got a while ago."

Dolphins try Vick at receiver: That's really too bad. Good luck, Marcus.

Troubled pasts are clouding their futures: "Eleven players with questionable pasts were at the Dolphins' minicamp. Nick Saban said it was a chance to scrutinize them."

Bart Wright of Greenville Online: Expectations climbing among Clemson fans

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The Daily Roundup: FreeThrowFriday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: "Degree?!?!? I don't need no stinking degree!!!

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Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Groups convene to discuss Duke caseRace, class, sex top the agenda.

Rick Maese of the Baltimore Sun: To surprise of many, horses being slaughtered in U.S.


The Headlines:

Finally, the Pack finds a coach who wants them. In all seriousness, you mean to tell me that after 35 days your best option was a coach with no degree, zippo college coaching experience, and a 28% win percentage as a head coach in the NBA? Who knows, he may be end up being the Charlie Weiss of college basketball. The only difference is that Weiss was recognized as one of the brilliant minds among coaches in the pro game and was a Notre Dame GRADUATE. Lowe is recognized as a nice guy with decent x's and o's who...........tried to end around the system and is getting his degree from a "credible university" 20 years after the fact!!!

How will that play on the recruiting trail with parents who really do want their kid to graduate from college: "Well ma'am, I played four years and had every opportunity to get my degree while I was at State, but I was a slack a$$ not only while I was there, but for 20 years after I left Raleigh. I finally decided to get it done and State gave me (another) opportunity to finish my degree at a "credible" university so that they could hire me. Guess what.....we'll do the same thing for your spoiled son....we'll give him chance after chance after chance to do what he should have done the first time and, in the end (if we get desperate enough) we'll bend our rules again so that he can work for us and make lots of money."

What kind of message is that!!!

You bend the standards of the profession at the Division I level for a loved son who has done nothing of note since he left college. You people compound mistakes with more mistakes! You ran off Herb, a man who had your program on the right track (albeit with BIG screw ups in certain losses along the way) and what do you do: You go "all in" on $6 Million slots (I would guess that's around the operating budget for the program) for a guy who didn't, until very recently, have the discipline to finish what he started. You risk it all, and for what? This is one of the most panic looking moves I think I've witnessed by a program that had no reason at all to panic.

Pack fans.......you can NEVER have anything to say about graduation per your athletes and integrity in athletics more generally. The Basketblog just won't listen to it anymore. With this hire, your administration has publicly announced to the world that they really don't care! Having said that, good luck Coach Lowe, and welcome back to Tobacco Road. I hope that you recruit like Jimmy V and Coach like Case and your record will still be around 7-17 vs the Heels. May blood again fill the streets between Chapel Hill and Raleigh. May the rivalry be born anew!! May State go to five straight NCAA's and have a better record over a 5 year period in tournament play than any other team in the ACC except Duke!!! Oh....that's right, you already did that and it got the coach run out of town.

Sydney......good luck, listen to Biggie and know: "Things done changed!"

Caulton Tudor of the News and Observer: What about Whittenburg? Good question. He has a degree RIGHT NOW from another credible university, coached Division I college teams and everything.

Lenox Rawlings of the Winston-Salem Journal: Homecoming: Hiring of Sidney Lowe will rekindle memories of that magical night in Albuquerque

Pack faithful are high on Lowe: "Many like his ties to the N.C. State program and his NBA background. Others are simply glad the school's search for a basketball coach is over."

Former N.C. State star Sidney Lowe will take Pack's job: "Twenty-three years after leading N.C. State to a national championship, Sidney Lowe is returning to his alma mater to take over its basketball program."

Thomas decides to play at Duke: "Recruit turns down hometown Rutgers." Come on, kid.....you can stop pretending that you were REALLY thinking about Rutgers over Duke. Don't give the Heels that ACC crown just yet!

Lance Thomas picks Duke over Rutgers, Louisville and Florida: "In the year since three high school basketball stars made verbal commitments to play for Duke on three consecutive days, the Blue Devils have waited to hear if Lance Thomas would join the recruiting class."


News from the Association:

Paul Headlines All-Rookie Team


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Coach's advice pays off for Ferguson

Football Passing plate getting easier for Bowden: "Recent successes on field and recruiting trail seem to justify facilities spending at Clemson"

Bowden finds Clemson fans eager for latest news: "Supporters flock to annual Greenville IPTAY gathering."

Expectations climbing among Clemson fans: "You check your skepticism at the door when you show up at the annual booster club stop in Greenville, held again Thursday night at St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral."

UM Nuggets - A Six Piece: "You wouldn't believe which of UM's coaches is closest to bring the Hurricanes..."

Robinson, Ijames sign contracts; Four more Wolfpack players sign

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The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

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Photos: He Raised a Tiger. Earl Woods remembered.

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Not everyone to celebrate 715: "Giants plan tribute when Bonds passes Ruth for No. 2 on HR list; MLB: Call us for No. 756."

At Duke, alcohol culture and ambivalence at the top coexist: "Duke too often tolerates egregious violations of its own alcohol policies, two faculty groups said this week in response to the lacrosse scandal. Professors said this tolerance hampers Duke's ability to deal with an issue that plagues college campuses across the United States." Yeah....I must say that is true. I went to parties at Duke that were completely over the top and unbelievable (in a "good" kind of way). Lots of fun and dangerous activity.....exactly what an 18 year older is looking for! Unfortunately, that kind of environment can lead to unfortunate circumstances. That's a tough balancing act to pull off.

Lacrosse case's impact on election unclear: "After raucous shouts and tears of joy, hearty backslaps and vigorous handshakes on the night before, things were quiet Wednesday in the Durham County District Attorney's Office as chief prosecutor Mike Nifong savored his roughly 900-vote victory over a former colleague who tried to unseat him."

Worst Owner: Players for minor-league football team get checks that bounce higher than punts: This is quite the funny read. Nice stuff.


The Headlines:

Simmons on early entry list: "N.C. State sophomore center Cedric Simmons was listed among the 93 names on the early entry list released Wednesday for the 2006 NBA Draft."

Eyes on State -- Day 33: "Detroit Pistons assistant Sidney Lowe continued to be the most discussed candidate for N.C. State's men's basketball coaching job on Wednesday."

NBA Defections Not Huge For ACC: "Only three ACC players filed the necessary papers making themselves eligible for the NBA Draft on June 28."

UM's Ibekwe expected to stay put


ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Dooley brings more than a great football mind to state: "Seeing Bill Dooley in the press box at N.C. State or North Carolina is always special."

Eight Student-Athletes Tabbed Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars By National Educational Magazine: "Eight Florida State student-athletes were named 2006 Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars announced in the April edition of Black Issues in Higher Education. Senior football player David Castillo was selected Overall Male Scholar Athlete of the Year in addition to first team honors."

Football Bowden sees no need for juggling: "Tigers’ post-spring depth chart bears strong resemblance to pre-spring list."

LeSean McCoy Unfiltered: "Do you know that the beloved running back Miami is banking on for its future..."

Injury to Titan may speed exit of McNair: "Former UNC Corner Waddell's accident could expedite QB's departure." Apparently, the "Rabbit" hurt his knee playing with his two year old son.

Vick will attend Miami minicamp

Deacons Announce Jersey Number Changes, Assignments: "Wake Forest football fans will need to keep a roster handy in the early stages of the 2006 preseason as they re-learn the jersey numbers that go with the names of their favorite Demon Deacons. Nineteen returning players will wear different numbers in 2006. The incoming freshmen have also been assigned numbers."

Brooks withdraws from school at UVa

More to come from Birkel in the PM...