The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: "I will rule the paint in Atlanta!"

Because we care:

The Weekend Smoke from My Cigar Blog: Partagas Serie P No. 2. Get over there!!!!!

Randy Walker, dead at 52: "Northwestern football coach Randy Walker, who had lifted the Wildcats' football program to one of its highest levels of success in decades, died Thursday night of an apparent heart attack." Wow.....

Son of Lakers' Odom Dies While Sleeping: That is just terrible!

Morrison handles first day with grace- "Bobcats draftee's initial visit to Charlotte is a whirlwind: "This is Adam Morrison, the newest member of your Charlotte Bobcats," says Adam Morrison, the newest member of your Charlotte Bobcats.

Dooley recovering from surgery at home: "Bill Dooley spent seven weeks at Duke University Hospital following emergency surgery for an aortic aneurysm, but he returned to his Wrightsville Beach home two weeks ago." That's great news.

NASCAR: Changes afoot for Chase

Holyfield ready for comeback bid at 43: "Evander Holyfield is 43. He hasn't fought in nearly two years, hasn't won in more than four, and hasn't been the heavyweight champ in six years. So?" Please don't......please!

NCAA panel declares 65 is enough: "Idea of 128-team men's basketball tournament finds 'no enthusiasm'." Fantastic!!! More from Paul Woody of the Richmond Times Dispatch


The Headlines:

Teams looked to N.C. schools early, often: "Three players from North Carolina schools were taken with the first 15 picks in Wednesday's NBA draft."

Hawks hope Williams takes fast path

Hawks believe landlord will patrol the paint: "Atlanta gets Shelden Williams to provide inside presence."

Hawks see Williams as a leader: "Top draft pick expected to step in right away and be ready to play and inspire young team."
J.J.'s edginess will be good fit for nice-guy club

Simmons may be missing piece for Hornets: "With two first-round picks to improve a team that just missed the playoffs, the New Orleans Hornets doubled up on big men Wednesday night by taking Connecticut's Hilton Armstrong and N.C. State's Cedric Simmons in the first round."

Noel ready to begin his pro journey: "David Noel discovered his fate the same way millions of other NBA fans found out about it. He saw it on television."

THE PROS: Williams, Gray to NBA

A TRIP: Battier made some big news on day of draft

How? In essence, Memphis threw Battier into the draft pool after the fact, trading him to Houston for No. 8 pick Rudy Gay of Connecticut and pedestrian veteran Stromile Swift. Offered the option, several teams ahead of Houston most likely would have welcomed Battier aboard.

I'm sorry, I know wrinkle head is a solid player, but I'm not trading Rudy Gay for him. No way. The next thing you know, Battier will be playing on the Olympic team! Don't agree? Take it to the comments section.

McCants: 'I'll come back stronger than ever' : You better, because they just drafted a heck of an insurance policy against your surly arse. Get your mind right, Rashard.

UNC football assistants get raises: "The salaries for five North Carolina assistant football positions were increased during the offseason, a move athletics director Dick Baddour said should stabilize the coaching staff -- and help improve the team."

Georgia Tech's Nix ready to call the shots: "Q&A with offensive coordinator Patrick Nix, who will call the plays for Gailey this season."

Recruit is keen on Duke: "Webb LB likes classes, coaching."

DA campaign may be reality: "Mike Nifong, who expected no opposition in November, could be on the political trail again."

Duke lifts suspension of lacrosse e-mailer, Ryan McFadyen: Just so we don't forget what his prose said

It said (his typographical errors included): "To whom it may concern
"tomrrow night, after tonight's show, ive decided to have some strippers over to edens 2c. all are welcome.. however there will be no nudity. I plan on killing the bitches as soon as the walk in and proceeding to cut their skin off ... "

He then described in graphic terms achieving orgasm. He also invited others, so far unidentified, to join him in the attack. The University ought to keep this guy as far away from their Durham campus as possible. All things considered, this is another TERRIBLE move by Duke. No matter the veracity of the strippers, this will buy the University no brownie points at all in the community.

Judge lowers bonds for Finnerty, Evans: Yet another bad, bad, PR move.


World Cup News Center 2006:
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Argentina vs. Germany: An old rivalry
Lesser-known Ukraine plays with the big boys
Ronaldo answers critics with milestone goal
Zidane helps France stick around at Cup

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: "How do your picks compare"?

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO Recap.

Morrison is the man: "Bobcats use No. 3 to pick prolific scorer. Charlotte, meet Opie. The hair is a bit more shaggy, and he's definitely taller than Sheriff Andy Taylor's son, but Adam Morrison makes Charlotte sound a bit like Mayberry." This is a great pick for Charlotte for so many reasons. There is a....ahmmmm..."perception" problem with this franchise that I believe this selection will help on and off the court. Sad, but true, this franchise will benefit from this pick for a multitude of reasons. Mike makes his first sound business decision as a Bobcat owner.

Jordan loves Morrison's 'desire to win'

Cheek drive claims 7,000 signatures: "The campaign to put County Commissioner Lewis Cheek's name on the November ballot for district attorney has amassed more than 7,000 signatures ahead of Friday's noon deadline to garner the support of 6,303 registered voters, according to campaign workers."


The Headlines:

The ACC's big three: "Duke's Shelden Williams, J.J. Redick and N.C. State's Cedric Simmons are the Atlantic Coast Conference's first-round picks in the 2006 NBA Draft. The Atlanta Hawks chose Williams with the fifth overall pick." The NBA draft picks

David Steele's blog: Looking at the NBA draft

Worth the wait: Simmons taken 15th: "Cedric Simmons had to wait a little longer than expected - 14 future millionaires went ahead of him - but the Brunswick County product ended up grinning."

Redick draft happens by Magic

Hawks take Duke's Williams: "Player is the fifth straight forward the team has taken with a first-round pick." But, it seems that the pick is not really getting folks in the ATL excited: Nothing bold or promising.

Clippers take UM's Diaz in second round : "One of 37 players who risked declaring early for the NBA Draft, Miami Hurricanes guard Guillermo Diaz remains on rocky ground after he slipped into the second round Wednesday, selected with the 52nd overall pick by the Los Angeles Clippers."

Johnson ready to join the NBA: "All indications are that Alexander Johnson made the right decision by forgoing his senior season at Florida State to enter the NBA Draft."

FSU's Johnson ends up in Memphis after 2 deals :"Florida State forward Alexander Johnson -- considered a risky early entrant in the draft when he announced he was leaving school two months ago -- was hoping to become the program's first first-round NBA draft pick in more than a decade Wednesday night. But the 6-foot-10 junior fell outside the guaranteed money of the first round when the Indiana Pacers selected him with the 45th pick overall."

Milwaukee Bucks Draft David Noel: "David Noel's NBA career has begun. The former Tar Heel was selected with the No. 39 overall pick in the NBA Draft on Wednesday night. A 6-6, 223-pound Durham native, he earned second-team All-ACC honors in leading UNC to its surprising second-place finish in the ACC and top-ten national ranking in 2005-06."

Sorensen: Morrison gives fans reason to get excited

Celtics sitting pretty after draft day deals: "The Celtics did most of their business before last night's first pick."

Wizards Go Abroad: "The Wizards take Oleksiy Pecherov, a forward from the Ukraine, with their first-round draft pick and Vladimir Veremeenko from Belarus in the second round."

UM to sign Asprilla, 6-9 'monster' : "Miami landed its second commitment for the 2007 basketball signing class as Colombia transplant Freddy Asprilla pledged to sign with UM in the fall. "

ACC Football News from the Footblog:

Young people the stars at Buckner's camp: "The little guys bring the biggest smiles, waist high and hungry for the game and for the attention."

Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star -A Brief Look At ACC Football: Wake Forest: College football season is still nearly two months away, but it’s never too soon to take a peak at the improving ACC.

He'd rather not meet the Irish: "Georgia Tech: New AD Radakovich prefers season opener against softer foe."

Football Clemson recruit is ineligible: "Safety will not enroll this fall; Gaffney’s Wilkerson has met qualifications."

World Cup News Center 2006:
Top Stories Multimedia Schedule Scoreboard Bracket Fantasy Challenge

Argentina vs. Germany: An old rivalry
Ukraine hopes outsider status helps vs. Italy
Ronaldo answers critics with milestone goal
Zidane helps France stick around at Cup

The ACC Basketblog's 2006 NBA Draft List

Here it is:

1. Toronto: Andrea Bargnani, 7-0, PF, Italy — Italian big mans handler already hired in Raptors front office. Might not go #1, but will end up with the Raptors.

2. Chicago: LaMarcus Aldridge, 6-11, PF/C, Texas — Unlimited upside. Bulls can't lose with this pick

3. Charlotte: Rudy Gay, 6-9, SF, Connecticut — Michael Jordan makes the first correct decision of his return to the Carolinas.

4. Portland: Adam Morrison, 6-8, SF, Gonzaga — Blazers keep hometown boy, well, at home.

5. Atlanta: Shelden Williams, 6-9, PF, Duke — The Landlord cometh.

6. Minnesota: Brandon Roy, 6-6, SG, Washington — McCants better look out. Roy could spell the end of for the injured and oft critizied for Tar Heel.

7. Boston: Tyrus Thomas, 6-9, PF, LSU — High-energy young player fits the Boston Youth Movement.

8. Houston: Marcus Williams, 6-3, PG, Connecticut — They need a pure shooter, but how can this kid drop any further. May take Reddick, but.........

9. Golden State: Patrick O’Bryant, 7-0, C, Bradley — Project....but a 7'0 foot project. Warriors can deal with that.

10. Seattle: Ronnie Brewer, 6-7, SG, Arkansas— I like him and needed to stick him somewhere. Seattle seemed as good a place as any.

11. Orlando: Randy Foye, 6-3, SG, Villanova — Exciting player....perfect for Mickyland.

12. New Orleans: J.J. Redick, 6-5, SG, Duke — This still may be a little high, but the ACC Basketblog wouldn't mind seeing the best the ACC has had to offer from the last two classes with Redick teamed with Rookie of the Year,Chris Paul. With that said, Redick could fall to the Duke of the midwest, Chicago. (see Ager in this spot instead of Redick)

13. Philadelphia: Cedric Simmons, 6-10, PF, N.C. State — Iverson needs more bigs, Webber smokes too much weed, and hey, he can team up with Shav. The Basketblog loves bringing the youth together.

14. Utah: Rodney Carney, 6-7, SF, Memphis — Carney brings more spring to the Jazz.

15. New Orleans: Hilton Armstrong, 6-11, C, Connecticut — A force in the middle, he'll bring some toughness the Hornets lack.

16. Chicago: Maurice Ager, 6-5, SG, Michigan State — Good fit, but may end up going a bit earlier.

17. Indiana: Jordan Farmar, 6-2, PG, UCLA — They need a guard. This guy fits the bill.

18. Washington: Saer Sene, 7-0, C, Senegal — Brendon is in trouble. This guy will man the middle and clean the glass.

19. Sacramento: Rajon Rondo, 6-2, PG, Kentucky — He's a very nice player who fits in Sac town. Bibby will teach him well.

20. New York: Alexander Johnson, 6-10, PF, Florida State — More beef for the Knicks frontcourt. Could this spell nite nite for Curry?

21. Phoenix: Shannon Brown, 6-3, SG, Michigan State — He could be a star with this uptempo group.

22. New Jersey: Oleksiy Pecherov, 6-10, PF, Ukraine — Nets aren't scared of the foreign born players.

23. New Jersey: Kyle Lowry, 6-0, PG, Villanova — Bulldog of a player.

24. Memphis: Thabo Sefolosha, 6-6, SG, Italy — I just like his name, and the scouts seem to think he's good.

25. Cleveland: Guillermo Diaz, 6-2, PG, Miami — Can Diaz defer to King James. If they can get it rolling....wow!

26. LA Lakers: Daniel Gibson, 6-2, PG, Texas — Steady play at the point could help the Lakers.

27. Phoenix: Marcus Vinicius, 6-10, SF, Brazil — Will Amare Stoudemire ever be 100% again?

28. Dallas: Eric Williams, 6-9, PF, Wake Forest — JHo speaks up for BigE and gets him a gig with Cubes. Not really......I just think he will make someone a very nice player over the long haul.

29. New York: Shawne Williams, 6-9, SF, Memphis — Upside, upside, upside.

30. Portland: Paul Davis, 6-11, PF, Michigan State — Nice kid, talented kid. Blazers have few of both. Another good "fit" type of player.

That's it. That's the list!!!

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Basketball Coverage:
PHOTO: "I hit the loto, baby!"

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Morrison? Gay?Who's next Bobcat?: "Charlotte's options attractive with 3rd pick in draft." Go for Rudy.

Wizards Draft Plans Still in Air

Ridiculing mock gestures: "The Celtics' Danny Ainge pays no attention to all the hype surrounding the draft."

'We're going to get a good player': "In a Q and A with the AJC's Thomas Stinson, Hawks GM Billy Knight sticks to his rebuilding plan."

Tom Sorensen on WSSU's Earl "the Pearl": "Earl `the Pearl' still making good moves"

CHANGES: Views toward NBA Draft keep evolving: "The NBA Draft - it ain't what it used to be. The next version will be tonight in New York with two rounds and a total of 60 players selected."

Not much for sure in NBA draft


The Headlines:

Simmons set to make dream come true: "Cedric Simmons, a 6-foot-9 forward whose rise from freshman sub to sophomore star at N.C. State, will be in the "green room" in New York for the NBA Draft tonight. The invitation to the NBA waiting section, usually reserved for the top 15 or so prospects and their families." Apparently, he has impressed the scouts greatly in workouts.
Lottery all the way. Our picks come later in the afternoon.

Wait is over for Redick, Williams: "In an era when elite college players rarely remain college players for long, many expected to hear the names J.J. Redick and Shelden Williams announced at last year's NBA draft."

Dascenzo: It will be interesting to watch Redick in the NBA: "The last time I saw J.J. Redick play a basketball game, he missed 15 of 18 shots and LSU put the lights out on Duke's2005-06 season in a Sweet 16 ambush at the Georgia Dome." I agree, on the right team JJ could be a force in his own special way. He won't be Jesus Shuttlesworth or anything, but he could be a back breaker!

UM's Diaz hit the road to impress NBA officials Tracking down Guillermo Diaz is like playing the "Where's Waldo" game, considering how much the former Miami Hurricane has been jetting across the United States to showcase himself to NBA teams.

Goal in sight for DiazGuillermo Diaz left the University of Miami after his junior season to be eligible for the NBA Draft. Tonight, he finds out if the move paid off.

Local contingent wants more 'glory': "Four years ago, Wake Forest-Rolesville's Eric Williams, Enloe's P.J. Tucker and Southern Durham's David Noel starred during what one recruiting analyst called "the glory days of Triangle basketball."" All in due time, my boys.....all in due time. Funny how PJ Tucker turned out to be the most dominant of this crew and none of the ACC teams wanted him (or could take him, depending upon which story you choose to believe.)

A Tale of Caution
While the tragic death of Maryland star Len Bias gets all the attention, there were actually several other players from the disappointing 1986 NBA draft class who failed to live up to their expectations.
• Vote: Best NBA Draft Class Ever
• Video: Bias Death Still Has Effects

Hodge summer status cloudy: "Gunshot wounds hamper progress." This could turn out to be a sad, sad story for the Jewles. Let's hope his bad decisions don't kill a career that was already off to a rocky start.

State's Grant still waiting for hearing: "A hearing scheduled Tuesday in Atlanta to help determine the immigration status of N.C. State basketball player Gavin Grant was postponed a second time."

Mays is ‘ready to roll’ in ’06: "Sidelined by academic troubles last season, 6-foot-9 Clemson forward gets his grades in order."

Pairings set for 2006 College Hoops Classic: "Maryland will host a regional round in the 16-team event."

Duke athletics director injured: "Duke University Athletics Director Joe Alleva was recovering from a head injury Tuesday after a weekend boating accident in which his son was charged with operating the watercraft while impaired." What is it with Dookies and trouble these days?

Duke lacrosse player found guilty in revived noise case: "A judge Tuesday found Duke University lacrosse player Dave Evans guilty of a misdemeanor noise ordinance violation stemming from a January party at the house that would become the setting for accusations of gang rape." See what I mean! Kidding, but seriously....don't you think this kind of piling on by the local media over a noise ordinance violation is a bit much?

Would-be rival to Nifong traveling an uphill road: "Steve Monks hopes to get on the ballot this fall to challenge to Durham District Attorney Mike Nifong."

Durham needs some good news to offset bad: "Too bad Mike Krzyzewski's basketball team can't take the court this weekend to deliver the Durham community some good news."

Another in-state star to play football for the Chest: "Charlotte Catholic star to play for Pack."

Texas WR commits to Jackets

Heels looking to future: "Returning to College World Series the goal for 2007." No! WINNING the CWS needs to be the goal since they gace this one away.

Ned Barnett of the Raleigh News and Observer: "UNC run in College World Series deserves applause." Clap.


World Cup News Center 2006:
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Ronaldo answers critics with milestone goal
Zidane helps France stick around at Cup
Italy advances on late Totti penalty kick
Ukraine eliminates Swiss on penalty kicks

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Tom SORENSEN of the Charlotte Observer: Tournament expansion a big step backward

Rick Maese of the Baltimore Sun: NBA draft doesn't get any better with age

Best talent not in draft: "I keep hearing how there's no obvious first pick in Wednesday's NBA draft. These Toronto Raptors must be idiots, not to take Greg Oden, the best center prospect since the Shaq-Zo draft. ... Oh, yeah. Never mind. "

Aldridge might be in Raptors' future: "Texas forward might be No. 1 pick, but Toronto also might trade down."

NHL has chance to make inroads in state where ACC hoops rule: "Can Canes join the party?"


The Headlines:

Tar Heels throw it away: "North Carolina, seeking the ACC's first baseball championship since 1955, comes up short against Oregon State. The Tar Heels made four errors and left numerous runners on base." If ever a team had a championship won and threw it away, it was this one. They were up 5-0 two nights ago and gave it up. Last night, tied, all they had to do was make a routine throw to 1st and get out of the inning. Instead, the throw was a little wide and the first baseman made the moslackadaisicalal stab at a baseball I think I've ever seen. They may be thinking about this one for a long, long time!

Missed opportunities sink Tar Heels: "North Carolina kept knocking on the door to home plate. But Oregon State's pitchers weren't about to let the Tar Heels inside during Game 3 of the College World Series championship series. And when the Tar Heels tried to break down the door, they ended up banging their heads against the wall for the final five innings of their 3-2 loss at Rosenblatt Stadium."

Evaluating 'The Landlord': "Duke's Shelden Williams has big numbers, but history says Hawks should be wary with top pick. " I think Shelden will be more than a serviceable player in the NBA. He's a nice pick up for a team looking for support type big man.

Williams might just smile: "One thing you didn't see from Duke power forward Shelden Williams during the past four years was a grin. But with a chance to go as high as fifth in the NBA Draft on Wednesday, Williams makes this promise: "I'll crack a little one when they call my name."" He'll crack a big one when he gets that first check!

Lottery pick awaits Simmons: "Former N.C. State forward Cedric Simmons has his own version of supply and demand. The kid from Supply improved his game in pre-draft counts and has talent that demands a lottery pick in Wednesday's NBA Draft."

Waiting is bugaboo for Deacs' Williams : "NBA Draft on Wednesday will end long period of uncertainty for center."

Character key to Cavs' class: "Dave Leitao has been involved in the recruiting business long enough to know that players like Jerome Meyinsse do not routinely materialize in the spring of their senior years."

Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog: Answer For U: "Outside of Guillermo Diaz, who has had private workout with 19 NBA teams, what..."

Former Terp Garrison sentenced: "He pleads guilty to sex offense, gets probation for assault charge." Sad.......

Burston hopes to make the grade on field, too: "Darrell Burston has been making the grade off the football field. Now the defensive end is looking to finish his Florida State career with high marks on it."

Pack strikes again, gets in state football prep commitment

Defense lawyers: Dancer claimed she wasn't raped: "A new batch of prosecution information showed that no rape occurred during a Duke University lacrosse party in March and revealed roughly a dozen conflicting statements by the accuser -- who even once told authorities she was not sexually assaulted -- two defense lawyers contend in court documents filed Monday."

Lawyers press for specifics in lacrosse case: "Attorneys for an indicted Duke University lacrosse player want to know exactly what the state thinks happened the night a woman told authorities she was raped."


World Cup News Center 2006:
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Brazil Slow to Unveil Famed 'Brilliant Art'
Italy advances on late Totti penalty kick
Ukraine eliminates Swiss on penalty kicks
Brazil looking to break records vs. Ghana
Beckham the hero as England ousts Ecuador

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!
PHOTO: "That's one star recruit down, Ed, with 4 more to go. I'm coming for you!!!"

because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO Recap

Canes, coach solidify future : "Peter Laviolette, the Stanley Cup-winning coach agreed to a five-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes on Sunday. The new deal, which is worth at least $1 million annually, could keep Laviolette and his family in Raleigh through 2011." That's amazing....college coaches in the Triangle are making more than the coach of a a Stanley Cup Champion.

NHL finds real home in Triangle: "They turned out by the tens of thousands Tuesday to cheer the Carolina Hurricanes, the newly crowned Stanley Cup champions. It was as if Mayberry RFD suddenly and proudly had become Hockeytown USA."

AP Newsbreak: Vickers to drive Toyota for Team Red Bull in 2007: "Brian Vickers will drive for Team Red Bull in 2007, positioning himself to be the future of Toyota as the Japanese automaker prepares for its Nextel Cup debut, The Associated Press has learned." Sellout.....actually, I was reading somewhere that 85% of every Camry on the road is manufactured in the US while the Big 3 are moving more and more of their manufacturing to Mexico and other such nations. So which, in fact, is the more "domestic" automaker? Interesting stuff for a debate in the comments section, don't you think?


The Headlines:

Top prospect Thomas picks Pack hoops: "N.C. State basketball coach Sidney Lowe may have landed the top junior player in the state Sunday morning with Greensboro Day School junior forward Johnny Thomas announced he would join the Wolfpack in fall 2007." I like it....always have liked it when coaches build their teams around the best in state player available, no matter where they rank on the national scene. It builds good will at home and the player will typically bust his hump for you, especially if he knows he's not a top 100 type player. That's not the case with this kid, but I like the move anyway.

Tech eager to welcome size, speed: "Virginia Tech men's basketball coach Seth Greenberg had all sorts of options when he wanted to put a quick team on the floor last season. There also were occasions when he could go big. But, big and quick? No way." I like that coach and I like that program. I think they will be respectable for many moons.

Thad Young timing his leap: "Georgia Tech hoops signee biding his time until move to NBA."

Redick's athleticism, ability to shoot influence draft stock: "J.J. Redick, the Duke senior, won at least a piece of every national college player of the year award in 2006."

NBA, ACC to meet again: "Williams, Simmons, Redick expected to be drafted quickly."

Comeback: Jason Williams hoping to resume his basketball career. Stay off the DonorCycles, fellas.....stay off!!!

Coaches to push for 128-team field : I hope they tell those coaches to stick it. 128 teams for what. So an undeserving Florida State can get in and lose to a better mid major team in the first round. Stop crying and looking for a handout. Beat somebody (like, the worst Wake team in the last 10 years), and you make the tournament.

Byrd project gets OK from Maryland regents: "Stadium will get $50 million renovation."

FSU football looks strong but not quite unstoppable:"The countdown begins in earnest today for Florida State football players."

Seminoles part with Ford, O'Neal: "Florida State cut ties Friday with football players Trevor Ford and Kenny O'Neal, another blow to what was considered a promising 2004 recruiting class."

Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog - UM Nuggets - The Nine Piece:"What lessons can the Miami Hurricanes learn from the Miami Heat? What will UM'..."

Yellowjackets to pay steep price for N.D. game

Tigers continue to play strong nationally: "OFFENSIVE LINEMAN MASON Cloy (6-foot-4, 265 pounds) of Spring Valley did his recruiting homework this summer, paying unofficial visits to 11 schools."

College World Series 2006 -
There is a tomorrow: "Oregon St. forces a decisive game vs. North Carolina. North Carolina deferred its dream of a national baseball championship by one day Sunday when Oregon State rallied to beat the Tar Heels 11-7 at Rosenblatt Stadium, evening the College World Series' championship series at a game apiece." Heels were up 5-0 and started getting clipped by the defensive mistakes we spoke about last week. If they don't win tonight, they will regret game 2 for a long, long time.


World Cup News Center 2006
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John Eisenberg of the Baltimore Sun: World Cup wipeout obscures U.S. growth
Beckham the hero as England ousts Ecuador
Portugal survives brutal match vs. Dutch
Germany blanks Sweden to reach quarters
Argentina needs OT to boot Mexico

FThe Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

Because we care:

The Weekend Smoke from MyCigarBlog.com - Fuente Fuente Opus X Forbidden X. Get over there!!!

Manning endorses Vols' Ainge: "Former Tennessee quarterback Peyton Manning was pleased to hear Erik Ainge would start this season after having to compete with other players the last two years." Hey, Peyton.....why don't you worry about winning a SuperBowl instead of putting your two cents in about the UT Quarterback situation.

U.S. Still Behind World in Soccer: "We wuz robbed, all right. Just not by the ref. Instead, blame a smart coach who turned timid at the wrong time and a team that never developed a real sense of urgency." Until our nations best athletes start playing soccer beyond the 6th grade, we're going to have a very hard time dealing on the world stage. I wonder what this team looks like if you have NFL caliber DB, saftey and WR size and speed at every spot on the field.........and a KG type in goal?


The Headlines:

MICHAEL JORDAN ON THE BOBCATS... "MISTAKES HAVE BEEN MADE AND SOME DECISIONS SHOULD HAVE BEEN SECOND-GUESSED.'' ... AND HIS ROLE "I'M NOT A PART OF A DOG-AND-PONY SHOW. I WANT TO BUILD THIS TEAM SO THAT THE TEAM SUPPORTS ITSELF."Jordan says winning team is top priority: "If Michael Jordan gets his way, the Charlotte Bobcats won't be so frugal in building a basketball team." Alright, Mike, we hear you talking the talk.........

Knicks finally dismiss Brown: "Stern to serve as financial arbitrator: The timeline for Larry Brown's free-fall from Knicks savior to Madison Square Garden scapegoat was 11 months. And all it cost the Knicks was $50 million and yet another season without progressing toward an NBA title." So, with MJ in Charlotte, who wants to guess where Larry Brown will end up????? This is interesting as this team would have a distinct UNC flavor to it from top to bottom. Will it help with fan support, or alinate those fans who really have a distaste for the Heels? Take it to the comments section!!!

Wallace, ex-Glenn star, commits to Virginia: "Wake Forest, UNC, UConn had also shown interestEric Wallace, a former basketball star at Glenn High School, has committed to play at Virginia. Wallace confirmed his decision yesterday afternoon." We reported this story yesterday, but it was just now that it hit me which Eric Wallace this was. This is very surprising to me.....Wake and UNC have been hot and heavy on this kid since his freshman year in high school. This really could be a really good get for UVa.

Greco leaves Pack for junior college: "N.C. State quarterback Mike Greco has left the Wolfpack football program and has enrolled at Pearl River Community College in Poplarville, Miss., Wildcats coach Tim Hatten said Thursday."

Defense gets more rape case papers: "Defense lawyers on Thursday received 536 additional pages of information about the Duke University lacrosse rape case from District Attorney Mike Nifong, and one of them promptly said the new documentation showed mounting inconsistencies on the part of the alleged victim."


College World Series 2006:

Ol' boy swingin' for Heels: "North Carolina baseball coach Mike Fox calls Jay Cox a "throwback.""

Oregon State will play UNC:"Beavers eliminate Owls, take place in CWS title series."

Young 'Canes aim for College World Series sequelAfter getting ousted from the College World Series late Tuesday, the Hurricanes, who lose key veterans but return a core of rising stars, talked of returning to Omaha next year.


World Cup News Center 2006:
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The United States Is 'Still a Small Footballing Nation'

Ronaldo Grabs Piece of History in Brazil Win: Brazil 4, Japan 1

The Daily Roundup: Thursday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage:

PHOTO: "Wake football recruit faces 4 felony counts"

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap.

Players cancel on the Bobcats: "Aldridge, Thomas, Roy drop out of workout; Gay still set. Either everyone in this NBA draft is injured, or no one wants to audition for the Charlotte Bobcats." Most likely a bit of both. However, if the Bobcats can get Gay, that's exactly who they ought to take. Perfect fit for the players they already have in place.

Tom Sorensen of the Charlotte Observer on the Hurricanes' victory - Bandwagon no place for me: "I sense anger. After the 300th e-mail telling me my Stanley Cup column Tuesday was stupid or bitter or jealous or evil, I called upon my special newsman powers and divined that some of you weren't pleased."

Canes to initiate new ring on Cup: "There is no room left on the Stanley Cup for the 2006 NHL champion Carolina Hurricanes. No worries, though."

Wade's Star Is Born With Title Win: "Shaquille O'Neal has his fourth NBA championship, Pat Riley his fifth as a head coach. As far as the Heat are concerned, the best thing about Miami's first title is that Dwyane Wade delivered it." Waaaay too early in his career to make the Jordan comparisons, but, it would appear that he is the king of the class as between LaBron and Carmello.

Dan Lebatard - For Pat Riley, title not just relief but pure joy: "Riley said just a few weeks ago that winning the championship would not bring joy or ecstasy but merely relief. He was very right about this team but very wrong about how he'd feel about it after the final game."


The Headlines:

WFU football recruit indicted on four felony counts: "Godfrey, from Sanford, could face over 30 years in jail for rape, kidnapping." That's bad, bad news for that young man. Hope you didn't do that, buddy.

Maryland rescinds offer to Alaeze: "Marijuana charges said to play role in Terps' decision to release one of their top football recruits." That's a pity........

New, old Tar Heels must blend: "A year ago, North Carolina men's basketball coach Roy Williams spent his offseason scrambling to compile the top-ranked recruiting class in the nation." I have no doubt that they will.........but I really like what I see in that Duke team. K will pull a Roy type rabbit out of his hat this season and these Devils will be in the hunt for the conference crown. Just my take....

NEEDED: Tar Heels hope freshmen adjust quickly on the court

Williams plans to give Hansbrough a break: That's smart....

John Delong of the Winston-Salem Journal: N.C. State's recruiting class gets a lot smaller

Virginia picks up basketball recruit, Eric Wallace.

Lacrosse player's dad files a plea: "The father of lacrosse player Reade Seligmann said in a court filing Wednesday that charges of rape against his son have exacted a huge emotional and financial price and asked a judge to reduce his son's $400,000 bail. He attached photos of Seligmann dressed as Santa Claus to an affidavit." (Text deleated due to my mistake of confusing Finnerty with Seligmann. Sorry, Reade). Give me a break....that is exactly the type of action that turns the public against rich kids in these situations, even when it appears that the accusations may be false.

DA plans to turn over more papers in lacrosse case: "District Attorney Mike Nifong plans to give defense lawyers at least 300 additional pages of information about the Duke University lacrosse rape case, adding to 1,298 pages of documentation surrendered previously." Why didn't you give that up in the first place, Mike?


College World Series 2006:

Tar Heels reach championship series: "Jay Cox hits two home runs and makes a big catch as UNC eliminates Cal State Fullerton 6-5 to earn a chance for the national championship. The Tar Heels' opponent will be determined today when Rice and Oregon State play for a second consecutive day." That's big for the conference. I don't think we've won a CWS since the late '50s (not counting Miami's championships).

Caulton Tudor of the Raleigh News and Observer- Consistency carries Heels to final round:" Throughout their visit to the College World Series, North Carolina's baseball players have referred to the experience as being a "blast.""

Despite loss, Tigers should be fine in ’07Returning players, incoming freshman will keep Clemson near the top in ACC

Tigers should be proud of their 2006 showing

Out of CWS, 'Canes look ahead: "Miami takes pride in knowing no team that competed in this year's College World Series had a more difficult road to Omaha than the Hurricanes. "


World Cup News Center 2006:
Top Stories Multimedia Schedule Scoreboard Standings Fantasy Challenge

Chance must be taken: "The U.S. must score a goal against Ghana to give itself a chance of reaching the Cup's promised land, the knockout rounds, the Sweet 16, the Cool Guys Club."

Beasley Stays on His Toes: "DaMarcus Beasley, one of the most dynamic U.S. players to emerge in the last decade, is eager to find out where he will be starting in the midfield, or if he will be starting at all."

Not Safe for Word (I mean "work"....oooops)

Here is a reason to love the Brazil WC Team. (content warning -- very nice content)

Congratulations

The Tar Holes Heels have advanced to the finale of the College World Series for the first time ever. With half the teams in the CWS, the ACC showed their dominance.

Now we need a championship, fellas.

The Daily Roundup: Wednesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: "Believe it......"


Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO Recap

Hurricanes Day!: "An estimated 30,000 Carolina Hurricanes fans gathered under a scorching sun Tuesday for a Stanley Cup victory parade that had the trappings of a Southern summer festival.
Photo Gallery: June 20, 2006: Stanley Cup victory parade
Photo Gallery: June 19, 2006: Canes 3, Oilers 1
Photo Gallery: June 19, 2006: The Canes Celebration

Lenox Rawlings of the Winston-Salem Journal - Kissing the Cup: Coaches, players and fans are basking in the afterglow of Hurricanes' first NHL championship

Canes' defense starts in earnest. "Team must dive into roster work."

Miami Heat slide show from last nights championship performance


The Headlines:

Ring of Fire - HEAT 95, MAVERICKS 92: "With its best road performance of the season in Dallas, the Miami Heat are headed home today as NBA champions, winning their fourth straight game over the Mavericks behind 36 points by Finals MVP Dwyane Wade to win the franchise's first championship." Wade is the man......

Coach defends his school: "Krzyzewski helping behind scenes in wake of Duke lacrosse scandal. Even now, with Duke and its athletics program in crisis, men's basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski said he proudly wears his Duke gear every day." Ahhhhhh, I see......now that the coast appears clear and the DA appears to be getting ready to have his head handed to him, King Mike steps out of the shadows. I'm sure there is an American Express commercial on the way. Actually, Coach K did exactly what he should have done. It's not his mess to clean up. It's the President's and the AD's mess. Reliable sources say the President is in trouble (hat tip to "WB".......no, not the WB promoted by the racist frog!). We shall see.

Hearing on lacrosse subpoenas set: "Lawyers trying to quash subpoenas Durham District Attorney Mike Nifong issued to Duke University soon will have their day in court."

Ex-coach: I could have fixed lacrosse: "Former Duke lacrosse coach Mike Pressler said he could have fixed any problems within the program, referring to an internal university investigation that found he was one of two people at Duke who took misconduct by members of the lacrosse team seriously." Yeah yeah, coach. You had time to crack the whip and you got caught with your pants down. Now, I think you got a little bit of a raw deal, no doubt, but lets not try to act like you were doing all that you could, because you weren't. You had players getting "drunk and disorderly conduct" citations last year and handed out slaps on the wrist. You had a guy attack a man who he thought was gay in DC last year and the kid was still on the team. You could have taken some public, affirmative steps to curb this conduct from repeating itself and you didn't. Unfortunately for you, it seems that you're paying the ultimate price b/c your boys got taken to the woodshed in a most unfortunate way.

Krzyzewski in midst of a busy year: "The task of maintaining an elite college basketball program has evolved into a 365-days-a-year undertaking. On top of that, Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski is tackling a task of Olympic proportions. "

BLUEPRINT: Krzyzewski making plans for national team

Former Devil eyes Italy: "Benetton offers deal to Melchionni." Why not....take your shooting and smart play to Europe and make a little cash!

Tat set to enroll at UVa in July: "His high school coach says prized men's basketball recruit Solomon Tat will be in school on time."

College World Series 2006:

Heels chasing a title: "Bard ready for Titans' test today. " That Cal-Fullerton team (along with Rice) may be the best team in the group. Heels got very luck the first time out......overwhelming pitching, but completely suspect on defense. Cal will be ready. Let's hope the Heels are.

Youth helps Tar Heels surge ahead

CWS notes: Tar Heels' secret weapon?: "Robert Woodard earned a place in North Carolina baseball history by throwing a three-hit shutout against Clemson on Sunday at the College World Series. "

Tigers lack final chapter: "Clemson squanders late-inning lead, falls short of its season-long goal: a CWS title."

Breakdown on mound dooms Clemson

Hurricanes run out of hits: "Desperate times call for desperate measures. "


World Cup News Center 2006:
Top Stories Multimedia Schedule Scoreboard Standings Fantasy Challenge

U.S. team expects tough game from Ghana

Ghana Enjoying Cup: "After 44 years, Ghana has made it to its first World Cup and is on the cusp of moving to the second round."

The Daily Roundup: Tuesday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: "Yeah Baby....."

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

'CANES WIN, 'CANES WIN, THEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE HURRICANES WIN!!! (What can I say, I like the Yankees radio call after their victories). Way to bring Lord Stanley's Cup to ACC Country, guys.

Ward saved Canes over and over: "Confetti was falling from the rafters. Coaches were jumping out of the box. Players already were raising their sticks to the crowd."

Neil Amato of the Wilmington Star: Carolina has come a long way in a short time

Oilers numb after falling one win short

Michael Wilbon-Stage Is Set for Drama: "The NBA is at its best when the drama becomes almost theatrical, which makes the series between Dallas and Miami a keeper."

Dan Lebatard - Heat hopes to quietly dispatch Mavericks: "There is a mixture of angry defiance and unreasonable pride at the peak of the competition mountain. Up there, at the height of sports, you get your joy not from merely winning but by proving, overcoming, defying, silencing."


The Headlines:

Ned Barnett of the Raleigh News and Observer: Believe it! N.C. home to the Cup

Former UNC star McCants has surgery on right knee: "Minnesota guard may be out up to six months." Hope that turns out well for him. Decent first season all things considered....

ACC Football from Andrew Jones of the Wilmington Star - A Brief Look Ahead At ACC Football: Duke. That's an easy one: pain.

New 'Noles get oriented - FSU freshman athletes take advantage of summer program. Nice job by FSU athletics to try and get these kids settled in to their new invironment early.

Defensive lineman picks Heels: "Brimfield, from small South Carolina school, is UNC's fifth recruit for '07."

Millions needed for U.Va.'s arena. I thought that thing was fully funded and ready to roll. Come on Wahoos, pony up and represent massa Jeffers......ooops, I'm sorry, Mister Jefferson's school.

New foe for Nifong emerges: "Steve Monks, chairman of Durham County's Republican Party, is trying to get enough signatures to challenge District Attorney Mike Nifong in the November election. He has criticized the handling of the Duke University lacrosse rape investigation."

East Carolina signs 5-year deal with Nike: "East Carolina and Nike Inc. have entered into a five-year partnership beginning with the 2006-07 academic year that will provide exclusive footwear, apparel and equipment coverage for all of the Pirates' sports programs."


College World Series 2006:

Caulton Tudor of the Winston-Salem Journal - Omaha embraces the CWS: "Out here on the prairie, they delight in calling it "The Greatest Show on Dirt." The College World Series, a marathon event that the citizens of Omaha and those in much of eastern Nebraska literally embrace, may well be college athletics' last fort of genuine innocence."

Morris ejected from Miami's loss to Rice; Oregon St. awaits: "Arguing balls and strikes is an automatic ejection in college baseball. That didn't stop Miami coach Jim Morris from disputing third base umpire Joe Burleson's call that Jon Jay's bat crossed the strike zone on a check swing to end his at-bat."

Canes backed against wall: "After losing to second-seeded Rice Monday night, Miami needs to win three elimination games in a row to reach the College World Series championship round."

Relax, say the Tigers: "Players, coaches agree that reaching CWS final after loss to UNC requires right mindset."

Clemson knows what they must do.

Tigers hope depth gives them an edge

CWS notes: Heels enjoying the ride: "North Carolina's baseball team entered this year's College World Series without much history in the event or much experience on its roster."


World Cup News Center 2006:
Top Stories Multimedia Schedule Scoreboard Standings Fantasy Challenge

Donovan Searches for His Strike: "Facing an Early Exit, U.S. Seeks Answers, Goals."

Spain Rallies Past Tunisia With Late Barrage: Spain 3, Tunisia 1

Half-Baked, Half-Wits

Yesterday I watched "The Sports Reporters" as I do every Sunday. I have my DVR programmed to record TSR, Meet the Press, Face the Nation, FOX News Sunday (and during football season FOX's NFL preview show with Terry Bradshaw) each and every week. It's convenient to miss the commercials and also the boring parts, of which there are many. And yesterday one thing got me really wound up. Chewing nails and spitting tacks. Red in the face. Downright angry.

Mike Lupica.

He should be in the pantheon with Billy Packer and that little gnome, Mitch Albom. They're the Mount Rushmore of pompous, self-involved egomaniacs. And that's on their good days. Heck, for that matter at least Billy Packer has the good sense to go away from April 'til November. Those other two a-holes are writing columns, books or making TV appearances year round.

And I hate them both. Viscerally.

Lupica and Albom never played sports (judging from their physical stature and lack of, uh, huevos). Neither of them are broadcasters and neither of them have flare for anything but moral preening and snark.

Jack Buck had grace. He knew how to call a game without becoming the story. Ditto his son, Joe. Harry Carey was entertaining and surely the Cubs fans needed something to make the losing bearable. Bob Uecker gave us "Just a bit outside." and a memorable role in the movie "Major League". Chick Hearn never missed a game. They were icons who became part of listeners' families. They were welcome invitees to the family BBQ in the backyard. But one thing they were not was rude. They were outlandish, sometimes. But they never forgot, it seemed to me, that the players were the reason they had a job many thousands of people would enjoy.

In the golden age of sports there were great reporters. And one of the reasons they were great was because not every salacious detail of every player's private lives made it onto the news pages. Babe Ruth was chased around a train by a knife wielding former lover (both Babe and she were married -- to somebody else) while reporters sat in the train and yucked it up. And not a word was printed about the sordid affair.

Perhaps it was the era. After all, nobody wanted to deligitimize a national hero while common folk were suffering the Great Depression. Maybe today is different because on average Americans have it so good they don't feel bad at experiencing schaedenfraude. But heck, I think that's just me trying to rationalize why these reporters seem so petty and small compared to their larger-than-life progenitors.

Today the reporters all seem hellbent on killing the golden goose that feeds them. They're constantly struggling to belittle, devalue or demean those who are rightly famous so that they can make their bones in their sordid little minds.

Now, let me be clear: I'm not referring to actual sports reporters. You know, the guys who tell a story about how a game went. I'm talking about the sports columnists cum celebrities.

Over the next couple of weeks I plan to bring more specific examples of what I mean.

If you spot such instances please E-mail me.

Thanks in advance.

Birkel

P.S. Jimmy Roberts might complete the pantheon on my Mount Rushmore.

The Daily Roundup: Monday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: "Remembering Lennie......"

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO recap

Aw, Phil!:"Meltdown on final hole deprives Mickelson of major." And that, my friends, is why this guy will never be Tiger Woods......what an idiotic approach to the 18th when you've gotthe thing wrapped up. Double bogey!!!

Crown within reach- HEAT 101, MAVERICKS 100 (OT): "Dwyane Wade made two free throws with 1.9 seconds left in OT and had 17 points in the fourth to give the Heat a thrilling victory and a 3-2 series lead over Dallas. " Don't know if that last call for Wade was correct, but the timeout called by Josh Howard is what really sealed the deal. Wade is Jordan like in his ability to get calls where there appears to have been no contact. Not as good as Kobe or Labron, but danged great in the clutch (off the glass, no less).

Michigan run actually fun for Earnhardt Jr.: 3rd place in the rain....not bad. And what a cool looking paint scheme he had!!!

Their last chance: "The Oilers believe they can complete a historic comeback, becoming the first team to come from 3-1 down and win the finals since 1942. The Canes warn anyone against dismissing their chances." Ok, boys.......do it for ACC country, do it for the South.........do it so you won't be among the biggest goats in the history of professional team sports!!!

Ned Barnette of the Raleigh News and Observer- A simple message for the Hurricanes: Play your game

One month later: "Derby winner Barbaro is picture of smooth recovery after Preakness horrors."


The Headlines:

The Story of Bias's Death Should Always Have Life: The death of Len Bias is one of the saddest sports memories of my youth. Glad his mom is still out trying to make a difference.

Michael Wilbon: Bias Death Still Shocking

David Steele of the Baltimore Sun- Lonise Bias: reaching people since 1986:

Bias Death Still Ripples Through Athletes' Academic Lives

Lesson not learned: "Two decades after Bias' death, schools still falter in handling sports scandals."

Bias' legacy includes more careful screening process

DA ought to hand off case: "There are two ways for Durham District Attorney Mike Nifong to get out of the mess otherwise known as the Duke Lacrosse scandal....." He doesn't need to "get out of it." He needs to be forced to take his medicine if, in fact, he has trumped up this case and has withheld evidence (as it is more and more appearing that he has).

And for those of you who have misconceptions about the other school that has been caught in this Lax mess, a message for you from the Chancellor of North Carolina Central University.

Omar Kelly's Hurricanes Blog: Who Got U? "Who is going to carry the scoring load for the basketball team next season?"

Former FSU standout Ward has a happy offseason: "If the offseason has not been as busy as Charlie Ward might like, it has at least been memorable."

QB Korn to enroll early at Clemson


College World Series 2006:

Carolina teams get neighborly in Nebraska

UNC aces its second test, stops Clemson. "Woodard tosses three-hit shutout."

Brought to heel: "UNC hurler puts Tigers on the brink."

Tigers must now take the hard way

UNC's Fox lauds Woodard's effort: "University of North Carolina coach Mike Fox has seen some good pitching this season with a pair of first-round draft picks on his roster."

Jackets eliminated from CWS

Yellow Jackets unravel in ninth: "Nobody ever wanted to avoid a clichŽ more than Georgia Tech's baseball team on Sunday afternoon."

'Canes storm past Oregon St. in opener: "Maybe the tropical storm-like weather that cleared out Rosenblatt Stadium in the middle of Miami's pummeling of Oregon State was an omen of things to come at the College World Series."

Pitching depth worries Miami: "Success in the College World Series is all about quality pitching, and if there is anything that's going to keep the red-hot Miami Hurricanes from advancing to the championship game it's UM's lack of arms."


World Cup News Center 2006:

Top Stories Multimedia Schedule Scoreboard Standings Fantasy Challenge

The United States' hopes of advancing are still alive after fighting to a 1-1 draw with Italy.

U.S. coach Bruce Arena has many conclusions after watching tapes of the controversial match against Italy.

The Daily Roundup: Free Throw Friday

The BEST ACC Sports Coverage!!!

PHOTO: "They love me in NC. They'll let me run the team from Chicago, no problem!"

Because we care:

Jim Cramer's MAD MONEY and RADIO Recap.

From "My Cigar Blog" - The Cigar of the Weekend: The Partagas Serie P No. 2. Get over there!!!

Roethlisberger contrite, says he's lucky: Stay off the bikes, guys!!!

Focusing on Game 6: "The long trip to Edmonton gives the Carolina Hurricanes time to recuperate and to contemplate ways to win the Cup on the Oilers' ice. The Oilers are feeling a lot better about their chances of winning." If they blow what was a 3-1 lead, they may be among the biggest goats in pro team sports history.

Ed Barnett of the Raleigh News and Observer - Fatigue, not Oilers, may be Canes' biggest opponent: "Cory Stillman, the master set-up man, passed the puck to Eric Staal in a way so unlike his crisp style. It drifted weakly across the ice in front of the Carolina Hurricanes' goal."

Heat gets even, stronger - HEAT 98, MAVERICKS 74: "Dwyane Wade had 36 points and six rebounds, and Shaquille O'Neal added 17 points and 13 rebounds to propel the Heat past the Dallas Mavericks in Game." ....and just like that, we have a series again.

Look at this. What a potential blunder by these guys: Magazine makes big bet with Canes

Roughly 60,000 issues of Beckett Hockey magazine -- with a cover featuring Cam Ward, Eric Staal and the words "Canes Capture the Cup!" -- will hit U.S. and Canadian newsstands next week, whether or not the Canes hoist the trophy. The monthly magazine, billed as the "preferred collectibles publication of the NHL," went to press with the Hurricanes leading the Edmonton Oilers 2 games to 0. Carolina now leads the best-of-seven series 3-2, with Game 6 on Saturday.

Wow....kind of makes you want to see the train wreck and grab a few just in case. Hmmmmmm. Come on, 'CANES!!! Don't be a goat!!!!!!!


The Headlines:

Michael Jordan becomes partner in Bobcats Basketball: "Johnson lures NBA icon to run Charlotte franchise." That's nice and all, but are you going to become a part of the Charlotte community, Mike, or are you going to do what you did in D.C. and rule from the Gold Coast of Chicago? You gotta understand that these people have already torpedoed one franchise b/c they didn't like the owner. Bob is already on thin ice for his absentee ownership and poor front office performance. Most people aren't really saying anything publicly for fear of being labeled racist or a "sell out." These folks in Charlotte will run your rump out of town, Mike. Be careful, and do the job that you are capable of doing. Buy an uptown condo, show up at the games (2 per week), show up at the office (on game day), and do the necessary goodwill tour of Charlotte (on game day). That's two honest days work in a 5 day work week. Do that (and win a few games), and the people will love you.

Jordan's touch not magic

Lowe eager to start: "Former point guard begins new job on Monday concerned with keeping recruits." I want to see the picture of the degree!!!

Lowe rolls up his sleeves

Redick needs new game plan

FSU's 'master plan' nearly complete: "The master plan of first-class athletic facilities that Dave Hart envisioned for Florida State is nearing completion."


College World Series 2006:

Armed Forces: Clemson’s starting rotation might not be as intimidating as 1996’s big-league-bound staff, but it’s the reason the Tigers are back in Omaha

Burning love: "Jack Leggett has mellowed after 13 years at Clemson — but not much."

Coaches develop tight bond: "Tigers coaches use each other as support system"

Tar Heels' road to College World Series paved in Charlotte

Fundamental shifts in attitude helped Fox lead Tar Heels to the World Series: "Mike Fox couldn't answer his cell phone, but the caller knew that. Clay Johnson just wanted to leave a message for his good friend. Johnson was with Fox the last time he earned a trip to the College World Series -- they were teammates on North Carolina's 1978 baseball team -- and called with congratulations as soon as the Tar Heels clinched a trip to Omaha, Neb., on Saturday with an 8-7 victory at Alabama."

Miller deals with pressure: "UNC draws tough opener for College World Series".

Tech takes on top-seed Clemson: "Jackets are 17-4 since May 1 but two of those losses have come against talented Tigers."

Tech has history with half the field: "Forgive Georgia Tech baseball coach Danny Hall if he has flashbacks this weekend to the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament."


World Cup News Center 2006:
Top Stories Multimedia Schedule Scoreboard Standings Fantasy Challenge

U.S. Notebook: Everything in Between Perception and Reality

U.S. Hopes to Start Fast and Furious: "Energetic Beginning Critical Against Italy."