NBA POWER RANKINGS

Word up playaz! Sorry for the delay in this week's power rankings, it's all my fault.  It won't happen again...Anyways, the Cavs are at the top of our Power Rankings again this week.  The Magic are nipping at their heels, so let's see if they can hang on to the number 1 spot for the rest of the year.  Anyways, Amar (of Cavalier Attitude fame) and myself (Docksquad) are doing this week's rankings, so here they are...

Tip-Off:

1. (1) Cleveland Cavaliers (58-16)

• They just seem like a runaway train at this point despite the little setback in San Antonio on Friday. Antawn Jamison has proved to be that legitimate second scorer that Cavs fans have been dreaming of for quite a while now, and he's been playing even better now that the guy he was traded for -- Z -- is back in the lineup. (AP)

2. (2) Orlando Magic (52-22)

• I personally think the Magic should have been ranked at 1 this week.  They lead the league in point differential and have a ton of weapons on the offensive side of the ball.  On top of that, they have one of the best defenses in the game.  I can't wait until the Magic play the Cavs in the Eastern Conference Finals.  (VC)

3. (3) Los Angeles Lakers (54-19)

• Win at San Antonio on Wednesday was huge because it showed that Kobe can still find that gear that is unheard of for most others. When the Lakers need him to find it, he will. Bad news if you're any other Western Conference team. Sorry fo. (AP)

4. (5) Dallas Mavs (48-25)

• Who is going to finish with a better record and get the second seed in the West, the Mavs or the Nuggets?  Even though the Mavs have lost four out of their last seven games, I'm going with the Mavs.  The Mavs just have too many weapons after the trade, and the Nuggets are in a tail spin right now.  Also, I got to give the Mavs foreign scouting team some props in finding yet another raw baller. You will get to see Rodrigue Beaubois in the playoffs soon.(VC)

5. (8) Utah Jazz (48-26)

• An extremely up-and-down season finds Utah now tied with Denver for the Northwest Division lead. They could be scary as the #2 seed in the West because Salt Lake City is always a hard place to play for visitors, and the Jazz would have their precious homecourt advantage for at least two rounds. With the way they've been playing lately, you might as well lock them up for a date with the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals if that becomes the case. (AP)

6. (4) Denver Nuggets (48-26)

• Like I said in my Mavs writeup, the Nuggets are hurting right now.  They had a terrible road trip, and they are still missing KMart.  No one knows when KMart is even going to come back too.  Throughout the year, the Nuggets used to be considered the Lakers biggest threaths, now they are just struggling to go into the playoffs on a positive note.  Oh how the mighty have fallen.  (VC)

7. (9) Atlanta Hawks (47-26)

• Despite losses to Philadelphia and potential first round opponent Milwaukee, the Hawks move up this week because they finally -- FINALLY -- overcame their Orlando Magic curse. And what a way to do it, with Josh Smith soaring through the air and slamming it right before the horn sounded. Kind of ironic that Dwight Howard, who had 24 boards that night, forgot to block out Smith on this play. (AP)

8. (6) Phoenix Suns (47-26)

• The Suns are scorching right now!  Amare is straight balling on cats.  Was there any doubt that he would in this contract year?  Where will Amare end up next year?  My guess is that he will be in Miami or NYC...  (VC)

9. (10) Boston Celtics (47-26)

• I'm not even playin', the next time Kenny Smith hangs on Boston's nuts on the air, he should be fired on the spot by TNT. There is no way in hell this group of geezers is suddenly going to get it together for a two-to-three month stretch of intense playoff basketball and get through younger, hungrier teams like the Magic, Hawks, or Cavs for the right to face the Lakers. I hope you hid the women and children on Sunday night if you were watching San Antonio's R-rated paddling of the C's on ESPN. (AP)

10. (7) Milwaukee Bucks (40-32)

• Ever since the Bucks got Salmons, they have played great basketball.  Skiles has done an incredible job of coaching this year, and getting his team to play like a REAL TEAM.  Reminds me of the job Skiles did in Chicago with the BGeezy, Hinrich, Deng teams.  Also I hate to say this, but Redd going down might have been the best thing to happen to them this year.  Instead of having their offense revolve around Redd, and his teammates just standing around while he chucks up shots, the Bucks are getting contributions from everyone.  Give Skiles the COY! (VC)

11. (12) San Antonio Spurs (44-28)

• Playing their best basketball of the year at the right time, and it comes despite an injury to Tony Parker. The Spurs are just two wins away over lifeless Nets and Rockets squads from completing a 13-4 month of March. With a brutal April schedule ahead that includes rematches with the Lakers and Magic, the Spurs better have those games in the bag to close out March strong. (AP)

12. (11) Portland Trailblazers (45-29)

• The Blazers are who we thought they were...They are a playoff team that will get bounced in the first round of the playoffs.  Also why all the Kevin Pritchard/ Blazers beef?  Even though he messed up with the Oden/ Durant pick, he has still built a sweet young squad out there in Portland.  I GWS what happens in the off season.  (VC)

13. (14) Miami Heat (40-34)

• Playing strong ball lately to secure a playoff spot, but all that will ensure this crew right now is a quick beatdown in the first round by either the Magic, Celtics, Hawks, or Cavaliers. The Heat are lucky they play in Miami and South Beach or else D-Wade would be so out of there. But we all know no one's dumb enough to leave Miami. Hey, would you leave Miami? C'mon son! (AP)

14. (13) OKC Thunder (44-28)

• What else can I say about this squad that I haven't already said this year.  Kevin Durant is nasty.  Westbrook is sick with it, and the rest of the young core is sick. It's going to be fun watching this team grow up together the next few years.  All I can say is Kevin Durant is the truth.  But real quick for those people who are saying Westbrook > DRose right now.  Please...give Rose a player like Durant next to him and trust me, there would be no further discussion about this... (VC)

15. (16) Charlotte Bobcats (38-34)

• Another masterpiece by Larry Brown, which is what makes me think that if Brown actually wants to keep a job for more than just one year and stay in Charlotte, then MJ should just let it be and do what it takes to make it happen. For the first time in their six-year history, the Bobcats look like a pretty good squad. I would love to see what they could do if Tyson Chandler came back from injury and became anything close to the force he was for the New Orleans Hornets in 2007-08. (AP)

16. (15) Toronto Raptors (35-37)

• What the hell are the Raptors doing? Are they tanking?  Just last month they were in cruise control and headed en route to make the playoffs, but now they are literally about to let the Bulls take their spot?  I'm not complaining, but something is fishy.  Is Bosh already giving up on the season so he can bolt at the end of it?  And how is Hedo getting out of games saying he is sick, but then hitting up nightclubs in Toronto on the same night?  Again, I'm not complaining at all.  I hope they lose every single game from here on out.  Please Raptors, keep tanking.  (VC)

17. (18) Chicago Bulls (35-38)

• The Bulls continue to climb in these rankings despite a brutal nationally televised 29-point waxing at the hands of the Heat on Thursday night. But that's because they now find themselves just a half game out of the eighth and final playoff spot in the East. They're doing just enough to get there while Toronto is doing just enough to just give it away. Hey, this could be a double whammy for the Bulls -- they can make the playoffs while making Chris Bosh want to leave Toronto more than ever this offseason, making him more of a possibility to sign with Chicago this summer. (AP)

18. (17) Memphis Grizzlies (38-35)

• The Grizzlies can blame their losing ways on two things. Defense, and turnovers.  Until they improve in both categories, they won't be a consistently good basketball team.  On a side note, ZBO FOR PRESIDENT!  (VC)

19. (19) Houston Rockets (36-36)

• It's all about the future in Houston now -- Jordan Hill, a lottery pick this summer, and maybe the Knicks' lottery pick for each of the next two years. Daryl Morey has a lot to work with, and we all know he's a first class GM. His next test will be this offseason and what he does in the draft. (AP)

20. (20) New Orleans Hornets (34-40)

• CP3 is back in the game baby!  The Hornets know this is a lost season for sure.  Now let's see if they make any off season moves like trade David West.  I personally don't think this team that they have can contend in the West, so something needs to be done, otherwise next season they will be LOST, as well.  RAAAR! (VC)

21. (22) Indiana Pacers (27-47)

• Don't suck enough to matter, and definitely not good enough to be worth a damn. The Pacers are making a legitimate run as the most irrelevant team of the 2009-10 season. (AP)

22. (23) New York Knicks (26-46)

• I have to give the Knicks a little credit for their play the past couple of weeks. They are playing the role of spoiler, and are definitely are not tanking.  They have beaten some pretty good teams as of late.  Still nothing is going to help this Knicks squad get back on top next year, unless they get Lebron James.  Donnie Walsh is probably praying that Worldwide Wes and Jay Z bring Lebron to NYC.  (VC)

23. (24) Philadelphia 76ers (26-47)

• There will have to be some shakeups in Philly this summer, especially if they land a high draft pick. Is Andre Iguodala, who has never been an All-Star six seasons into his career, a legitimate franchise player? This team will really need to look itself in the mirror when the offseason rolls around. (AP)

24. (21) Los Angeles Clippers (27-46)

• For all of those people that drafted Baron Davis in fantasy Basketball, I have one question for you...WHY?  You know he is going to get hurt, but you just can't resist, can you?  Anyways, as we all expected before the season started, the Clippers cursed another high lottery pick (Griffin), and they will finish the season as one of the worst teams in the League.  SAD FO! (VC)

25. (25) Sacramento Kings (24-50)

• They have been competing admirably despite being decimated by injuries, including one to ROY candidate Tyreke Evans. Another high lottery pick should come their way this summer -- definitely something to be excited about if you're a Sacto fan considering how stacked this upcoming draft is. (AP)

26. (27) Golden State Warriors (21-52)

• Nellie Ball needs to stop if the Warriors ever want to get better and win some games.  I wish I had some milli's, because I would buy the Warriors and right the ship there for sure!  Hopefully their new management will fire Don Nelson.  I think that alone will get the Warriors back into the playoffs! (VC)

27. (26) Detroit Pistons (23-50)

• Losers of eight straight and helped ensure that the Nets won't break the record for worst mark in NBA history. They look like they're ready to mail it in already. I really hope Joe Dumars is enjoying watching that championship DVD from 2004, because that whiffed Darko pick from '03 combined with the reckless spending of cap room last summer has crippled this team beyond belief. (AP)

28. (30) New Jersey Nets (9-64)

• I just want to take a second to congratulate the NETS! They are not ranked 30th this week, and did not finish the entire season ranked last!  Ever since the lunch bag incident, the Nets are actually playing inspired basketball. They have also insured that they won't finish as the worst Basketball team in NBA history! And last but not least, their new owner is a rock star!  All in all a great week for the Nets and their fans!

29. (28) Washington Wizards (21-51)

• When you've lost 15 straight games and haven't won a game all month, you deserve to be ranked lower than the Nets. At least the Nets have something to be proud of last week with consecutive victories and ensuring that they won't have the worst record ever. The Wizards have this train wreck team combined with Gilbert Arenas' recent sentencing to a halfway house for a month. Just an absolute mess. (AP)

30. (29) Minnesota TWolves (14-60)

• I watched the Bulls play the Wolves, and trust me when I say this, but the Bulls dominated them.  The TWolves are terrible, plain and simple.  They got some decent young players, but they need to make some more moves in the off season.  I GWS...(VC)

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MARK'S KADDY KORNER - SHELL HOUSTON OPEN PREVIEW

 

Shell Houston Open Redstone Tournament Course

They moved to the Humble area in 2003 from The Woodlands and Fred Couples won the first event at the Redstone Golf Club, now they are playing the Tournament Course and the old man is still a contender. To be honest with you I’ve only been on the Tournament Course once for a practice round but they tell me it is long and hard, set up a lot like the Masters with slick greens, and the temperamental weather makes it a difficult week. There have actually been a couple of tournaments cancelled because of rain in the Houston area over the years.

Scheduled the week before the Masters Redstone always draws a strong field and this week a few of the top dogs are missing and my personal favorite to win, J. B. Holmes. For some reason he decided not to play, he was my incoming favorite after the last few weeks and his second place playoff finish last year. This is definitely a course for the long knockers and deft putters. The field has gone fairly deep into the school so it isn’t quite as strong as years past so look out for a long shot.

The caddies will be quenching their thirsts and telling stories at Lloyd’s in downtown Humble where the best men in world have relieved themselves on the bathroom wall. No urinals just a wall with cascading water and a trough below, probably the finest relief station on tour. They take pretty good care of us, some home cooked meals every night, a pool tournament, and the shuffleboard competition gets quite heated, plus the beer is ice cold.

DL III is trying to win his way in to Augusta so watch out for him. My long shots are a couple of rookies, Josh Teater and Blake Adams and look out for Derek Lamely again, he’s still playing pretty good. But, here are the guys to put your money on. Hunter Mahan has a great track record here, Anthony Kim’s ball striking could eat this course alive, and Martin Kaymer’s length will be a great asset.

Houston has always boded well for first time winners. My brother won at the Woodlands with Tony Sills in the early 90’s, first time for both of them. Take a look at the past champions it’s sprinkled with grizzled veterans and first timers. It’s always a fun tournament to watch and the Houston Golf Association does a great job of putting on, and promoting the event.

 

Mark Huber is a semi-retired PGA Tour caddy doing a little writing. You can contact him at markskaddykorner@gmail.com or check out www.MarksKaddyKorner.com for more stories about golf and life. He's caddied twenty-one years on every tour for over fifty players mainly Bob Murphy, Ray Floyd, Doug Tewell, and worked for Tom Watson twice in 2009. Mark grew up in Havana, IL attended Illinois State on a baseball scholarship and played semi-pro ball with the Eau Claire Cavaliers after spring training with the White Sox way back when. He is a die-hard Cubs fan.

Mark has freelanced for many sites, including ESPN. He will now be contributing his insights to Docksquad Sports...

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GATORADE LOCKER ROOM CONTEST

Thought we would pass this on...

Gatorade is looking for the ultimate high school locker room ritual with the launch of its G Series Mobile Locker Room Contest on Facebook. We’re opening this up for everyone to enter for a chance to have the G Series Mobile Locker Room be the 9th stop on the G Series Mobile Locker Room tour and win a $500 gift card.

The Mobile Locker Room is currently traveling to at least eight handpicked schools nationwide between now and May. Students from those participating schools will be some of the first athletes to test the new G Series products, designed by Gatorade scientists in collaboration with the world’s greatest athletes to provide fuel, fluids and nutrients before, during and after workouts, practices or games.


To enter:

∙ Go to
http://www.facebook.com/Gatorade?v=app_388133513888&ref=ts
∙ Submit a photo and tell us what your pre-game locker room ritual before April 11

∙ Spread the word to your family and friends to have them submit too!

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TODAY IN SPORTS...

March 31st


Today in Sports...

• in 1973, Ken Norton won a split decision victory over Muhammad Ali in one of the biggest upsets in boxing history to win the North American Boxing Federation Heavyweight Championship Title.   In the fight, Ken Norton broke The Greatest's jaw.  It was the 2nd defeat in Muhammad Ali's illustrious career. 

Happy Birthday to...

• the former all-star guard and NBA champion, Steve Smith, who turns 41 years old today.  Steve was the 5th overall pick by the Miami Heat in the 1991 NBA Draft.  He played his college ball at Michigan State and finished his college career with a school record 2,263 points.

Thanks for checking in today, check back tomorrow for some more tidbits...

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MARK'S KADDY KORNER - PUNTA CANA - CAP CANA CHAMPIONSHIP

The Dominican Republic sports numerous challenging golf courses including Pete Dye’s incomparable Teeth of the Dog and the Champions Tour has been coming to Punta Cana for the last four years. Jack Nicklaus designed a challenging tract with eight holes directly touching the stunning blue Caribbean waters and a layout weaving around ancient underwater ocean formations. The first and second tees are perched on limestone cliffs, once submerged but now overlooking the Cap Cana Oceanside resort, the Caribbean, and on a clear night the lights from Puerto Rico.

The par three thirteenth signature hole resembles Cypress Point’s sixteenth with a funky green design. With the ever present winds the hole is next to impossible from the back tees so the officials moved us up two tee boxes within six iron range and it was still the second toughest hole. Rumor has it Jack showed for the grand opening and after listening to complaints about thirteen’s difficulty knocked a rescue club in the hole from the back tee. An ace for Jack and a silencing of his critics, timing is everything; he’s been known to rise to the occasion. 

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TODAY IN SPORTS...

March 30th

Today in Sports...

• in 1998 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX, the Kentucky Wildcats, under 1st year head coach Tubby Smith, won their 7th NCAA Division 1 Men's Basketball Championship in school history defeating Rick Majerus and his Utah Utes.  This was Kentucky's 2nd title in 3 years.  Notable NBA players in this game included Utah's Andre Miller and Michael Doleac and Kentucky's Nazr Mohammed, Scott Padgett, and Jamaal Magloire.

Happy Birthday to...

• Jerry Lucas who turns 70 years old today.  Jerry is considered one of the greatest college basketball players of all-time.  He led The Ohio State Buckeyes to the school's 1st and only National Championship in 1960.  Jerry was the first player to ever win a championship at every level of competition, including two high school state titles, 1 NCAA title, 1 NBA title, and an Olympic Gold Medal in 1960.  Jerry was inducted to the NBA Hall of Fame in 1980 and was named to the NBA's 50 Greatest Players list in 1996.  Jerry is also the 1st basketball player to ever become Sports Illustrated's Sportsman of the Year back in 1961.

Secretariat.  The 1973 Triple-Crown winner would have turned 40 years old today.  Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes that year by a record 31 lengths and is one of only 11 horses to ever win the Triple-Crown. 

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TODAY IN SPORTS...

Hey guys, we hope you are doing well. We're going to start something new here at DSS called Today In Sports.  Our goal is to try to give you some new sports tidbits everyday, Monday through Friday.  Hopefully you can use this information to act cool in front of your boys.  Feel free to leave some comments as well.  Here goes...

Today is March 29th


Today In Sports...

• 25 years ago, Wayne "The Great One" Gretzkey scored his 126th assist of the season, breaking his own record that he set during the 1982-83 season with the Edmonton Oilers.  Gretzky would finish the 1984-85 season with 135 assists.  If you thought that was impressive, the following year, he recorded a mind-boggling 163 assists shattering his own record once again.  

• 14 years ago, the Cleveland Browns officially chose their new team name, the Baltimore Ravens.  A few years later in 2000, the Ravens would go on to win Super Bowl XXXV.  The Browns have yet to win a Super Bowl.

Sports Birthdays...

Happy Birthday to...

• Earl Campbell - The Texas Longhorn running back who won the 1977 Heisman Trophy turns 55 years old today.  He was the #1 overall pick of the Houston Oilers in the 1978 draft would go to 5 Pro Bowls and be inducted to the Hall of Fame in 1991.

• Cy Young - Born in 1867 in Gilmore Ohio.  Cy holds numerous MLB records including; 511 wins, 316 losses, and 749 complete games, to name a few.  All that with a carrer ERA of 2.63.  And to top it off, he's thrown 3 no-hitters and the 1st ever perfect game.  You do all that and you get an award named after you given to the league's best pitchers every year

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NBA POWER RANKINGS - WEEK 20

Word up playaz, we're back!  The Cavs regain their throne at the top of our Power Rankings this week.  They also just got big Z back, so we've added this special picture of Big Z for all our friends who are Cavs friends, especially for this one fan in particular named Rama.  Here's a jam for you guys as well...


Mase - Welcome Back
Uploaded by blackdesperadoo. - See the latest featured music videos.

Anyways, Amar (of Cavalier Attitude fame) and myself (Docksquad) are doing this week's rankings, so here they are...

Tip-Off:

1. (2) Cleveland Cavaliers (56-15)

• After a brief hiccup to drop to #2, the Cavs are back where they belong on this list. They have won seven straight, nine of their last 10, and possess the league's best record -- all without a real center. Oh, and Z returns on Wednesday. Rowdy. (AP)

2. (3) Orlando Magic (49-21)

• The Magic have won 10 out of their last 11 games and are peaking at the right time.  As long as this team can stay healthy, they are a legit threat to beat the Cavs in the ECF, and to make the Finals. Superman leads the League in technical fouls, and now he needs to be careful before he gets suspended.  (VC)

3. (4) Los Angeles Lakers (52-18)

• Laker fans definitely want to think that this crew is just saving that extra gear for the playoffs, but seeing Andrew Bynum get injured again can't be too comforting. Remember that the Lakers' core of Kobe, Gasol, Odom, and Artest average to just above 30 years of age -- something to keep in mind when the long playoff run starts in late April. (AP)

4. (5) Denver Nuggets (47-23)

• The Nuggets are hitting the road for a tough five game road trip.  This road trip will probably decide who will finish with the better seeding, the Nuggets or the Mavs.  The Kmart knee injury is a huge blow for this team though.  Hopefully for the he is ok by playoff time.  Big ups and good luck to Coach Karl...(VC)

5. (1) Dallas Mavericks (46-24)

• Definitely cooling off considerably since scorching through the last half of February and the first half of March. Like the Lakers, their core players -- Dirk, J-Kidd, JET, Marion, and Butler -- are all well over 30 (with the exception of Butler, who just turned 30 not too long ago). Dallas has a history of breaking down in the playoffs, so forgive Mavs fans their unease. (AP)

6. (10) Phoenix Suns (44-26)

• The Sun are playing some great basketball right now.  I know they have been at home for most of this run, but still, they are winning games and that's all that matters.  Steve Nash is doing his thing like usual, but Amare has been playing on a different level since the trade deadline passed.  He's been a beast.   Just watch this and you will understand...

7. (13) Milwaukee Bucks (39-30)

• The Eastern Conference's answer to the Utah Jazz. As hot as Utah was earlier this month, the Bucks are just as hot. Tuesday's win over the Hawks avenged one of their two losses over the last 17 games and pretty much locked up the fifth seed, where you would have to love their chances if they wind up facing the Hawks again. (AP)

8. (6) Utah Jazz (45-25)

• Injuries, injuries, injuries. That is the one word that always goes hand in hand with the Jazz. If they can ever get their full squad healthy, then yes, they will contend in the West.  But this story seems like it will always have the same ending.  The Jazz probably won't be at full strength in the playoffs, and they'll bow out like usual.  Sad fo. (VC)

9. (9) Atlanta Hawks (45-25)

• It seems like this Hawks team has capped out its potential. They were swept ruthlessly by the Cavs last spring, and now it doesn't seem like they would have a prayer against either the Cavs or Magic in the second round. They're ridiculously talented, but they're also the poster boys for the adage "defense wins championships." Atlanta could use some. (AP)

10. (8) Boston Celtics (45-24)

• The Celts had a nice road trip last week, and won a game in Dallas that no one expected them to win.  These vets are showing everyone that they aren't done just yet, and that they have one more run in them.  PP and Ray Ray are getting hot at the right time, but let's see if they can keep it going.  (VC)

11. (12) Portland Trail Blazers (42-29)

• They've simply roughed up inferior teams over the last several weeks, but there's something to be said for beating the teams you're supposed to. Sunday night's loss at Phoenix was rough because of the way they lost and the blown opportunity to move up in the playoff standings, but the Blazers (currently the eighth seed) trail the fifth-seeded Suns by just 2.5 games. (AP)

12. (11) San Antonio Spurs (41-27)

• The Spurs have a killer schedule coming up this week with the Cavs, Lakers, and Celtics on tap.  If they can somehow go 2-1, that will be huge for them and their playoff seeding.  BTW, what's gotten into Manu lately? He seems rejuvinated, and is plain balling on cats.  I can never get tired of watching Manu and his Euro two-step (nh)...(VC)

13. (7) Oklahoma City Thunder (42-27)

• Looked like seasoned world-beaters there for a while, but bad, bad losses to dregs like the Pacers and Kings brought them crashing back down to earth. This crew, no matter how talented they are, has a whole hell of a lot to learn. It will take some playoff beatings to break these guys in, starting with an inevitable beatdown this spring. (AP)

14. (18) Miami Heat (36-34)

• This Heat team is killing me.  I was praying they would drop out of the playoffs, but instead they have locked up on D and have pretty much locked themselves into a playoff spot.  Sad for me and for the Bulls fo.  Looks like no DWade fo.  (VC)

15. (14) Toronto Raptors (35-34)

• Are you scared, Raptor fans? Scared we're going to make our regular "Chris Bosh is leaving" jab? I don't even have to say anything. Being .500 despite having the best power forward in the game today says it all. (AP)

16. (17) Charlotte Bobcats (35-34)

• The Bobcats are killing themselves by losing a ton of their road games.  Their offense is so streaky, please keep it up Bobcats... Hopefully for me and the Bulls, the Bobcats keep losing!  ...(VC)

17. (15) Memphis Grizzlies (37-33)

• Very up-and-down team, like OKC. Unfortunately for them, they won't be able to use this year's playoffs as a learning tool, seeing that they won't be there. (AP)

18. (20) Chicago Bulls (32-37)

• What a different a healthy Derrick Rose means.  With him, they have a chance vs anyone on any night. Without him, the Bulls look like a D-League team.  Yes, that is how important DRose is to this squad, and how good Derrick Rose has become in just one year.  His jump shot has also come a long way since last year.  It is a lot more consistent now, and he is finally extending back his shot to the 3pt. line as well. Anyways, the Bulls have now won 2 in a row, and they will need to go probably 9-3 in their last 12 if they want to get into the playoffs.  Joakim Noah is also back, and Deng is coming back soon as well.  It looks like the Bulls are finally getting healthy, but is it too late?  Let's see if they can make a late playoff push. (VC)

19. (16) Houston Rockets (36-33)

• Daryl Morey got rid of one injury-prone, unreliable cornerstone player in T-Mac. The return -- Kevin Martin -- has been paying dividends. So wouldn't this summer be a good time for Morey to shop around Yao in return for a cornerstone big man that Houston fans can at least expect to be out there almost every night? (AP)

20. (19) New Orleans Hornets (33-38)

• I have to give the Hornets some props. I thought they would fade and become one of the worst teams in the game without CP3. Instead they hung in there, played some solid basketball, and pulled out some wins that no one expected.  Collison's been great. CP3 is finally coming back, so let's see if they can play together and get some more wins.  (VC)

21. (22) Los Angeles Clippers (26-44)

• I promised not to talk about these bums again. And I don't feel like breaking my promise now. (AP)

22. (25) Indiana Pacers (24-46)

• I have to give the Pacers some credit, they aren't tanking. They are playing the role of spoiler late in the season, and it's actually pretty cool to see a team do that.  I really do think they have a bright future as a team.  I think if they can just get another solid player, they will surprise some people and make the playoffs next year.  (VC)

23. (26) New York Knicks (25-45)

• I hope the Knicks realize that it's LeBron or nothing this summer. You don't give up three straight lottery picks for the Joe Johnsons and Carlos Boozers of the world. If the Knicks can't secure King James this summer, this franchise will be in for possibly another decade of hell given its lack of resources to add more talent. So yeah, no pressure Donnie Walsh. Given the Cavs' success, I wouldn't be too comfortable being a Knicks fan right now. (AP)

24. (21) Philly Sixers (24-46)

• You know you are bad when you lose to the Knicks two times in one week.  Sad foo. I told you all AI2 wasn't a dude that could carry a squad, but people always hang on his jock.  Well congrats Sixers, thanks to AI2 and his smooth jumper (not), you will be in the lottery.  (VC)

25. (27) Sacramento Kings (24-46)

• You really have to like how Geoff Petrie has rebuilt this team. But they're still just a bunch of role players around a rookie stud (Tyreke). In a league where you're only as good as your superstar (ok ok, except for you, 2004 Detroit Pistons), Sacto better hope T-Easy turns out to be one hell of a player. One. Hell. Of. A. Player. (AP)

26.  (24) Detroit Pistons (24-47)

• Someone needs to call the police...Ben Gordan and Charlie V are wanted for stealing millions of dollars and all of the Pistons cap room.  Great job as usual Joey D!  (VC)

27. (28) Golden State Warriors (19-50)

• Ah, the Warriors. Let's not talk about what's happening on the floor and instead talk about what's happening off of it. Hearing that Chris Cohan is finally selling this team has to be music to the ears of Bay Area hoops fans. Trust me, better days are to come. Great news, Dubs fans. And I hope my Buckeye Evan Turner ends up here next year. (AP)

28. (23) Washington Wizards (21-47)

• The Whiz haven't won a game in March, but there's even worse news for the Whiz.  Josh Howard will probably be out at the start of next season too with his ACL injury.  It's sad to see the Whiz drop this far. I still remember when the Whiz had their big three and they beat the Bulls in the first round of the playoffs just a few years ago.  Now they'll probably be a lottery team for 2 more years.  Again, sad foo. (VC)

29. (29) Minnesota Timberwolves (14-57)

• Thirteen straight losses. At least the Nets get publicity for making a run at being the worst team ever. These guys are just irrelevant. Hey, at least the Twins kept Joe Mauer, right? (AP)

30. (30) New Jersey Nets (7-62)

• The Nets rank dead last, again! Some things never change.  If they don't win three more games, this team will be known as the worst team in NBA history. All I can say is wow!  I still understand how this team, is this bad.  Might as well end this writeup and the entire post with my favorite word of the night.  The Nets are SAD FOO!!!

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CASH - OFFICIAL JOHN WALL VIDEO

thanks for the video Riken...

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MARK'S KADDY KORNER - MY TAKE ON TIGER

He’s coming back, not when I thought, but at a place that will provide all the protection he needs. Augusta National, once you step behind the clubhouse, is off limits to press, photographers, and paparazzi. There may be an occasional discreet interview on the lawn under the oak and the Masters allows their networks limited access to the players but once a player leaves the driving range or parking lot, passes through the clubhouse and walks to the putting green, he is off limits to the patrons. There are no autographs behind the clubhouse only golf.

The Pinkertons will be out en masse watching for unruly patrons, who will be few because they fear losing their treasured credentials. Some of the weekly passes have been passed on for generations, Augusta National controls who owns a weekly badge and will discontinue any passes of disruptive spectators. You don’t see anyone running at Augusta National let alone shouting something idiotic at a player. Just as he likes it Tiger will be cocooned as he goes about his business, remember it’s all about him.

Quite frankly I think Tiger is taking the easy route and is being a bit discourteous - John Maguinnes PGA Tour golf commentator called it cowardly - to the Masters and its participants. Any tournament he shows up at will have a circus atmosphere but out of respect for the hallowed grounds and the first major making his initial start should have been someplace else, like Bayhill. Tiger is still controlling everything and making it easy on himself, not explaining what is going on and apologizing to the golf fans. Hopefully his Tuesday press appearance, if there is one, will be a mea culpa to the general public.

His personal life is his business but when his squeaky clean image is used for commercial purposes, and his persona has been used to extract hefty sums of cash from the general public, we deserve an explanation, at the very least an apology. What was portrayed in advertisements wasn’t accurate, there was a fleecing going on and those high end corporate sponsors, Tiger included, had no concern for the fans only the almighty corporate profit at our expense. False advertising is against the law but I don’t think there will be any charges pressed so maybe an apology would suffice.

Once the golf starts gradually his antics will be forgotten but his pedestal needs to be lowered. Tiger will need to step down, mingle with the masses a bit more and disperse his bodyguards surrounding his every move. There needs to be a reconnection; I’m not sure he owes us this much but it would be nice. Arnold, Jack, Tom, Lee, and Phil all try to connect with the gallery. Tiger has always kept them at a distance only letting them “ohh and ahh” over his golf with never so much as a gaze into the crowd. Now is the time to establish some rapport, be a little human, and appreciate your fans. Hopefully this will be high on Ari Fleisher’s recommendation list.

Tiger, with a little genuine effort, will be forgiven over time. We are very forgiving of our sports heroes especially if they come forth and honestly deal with the issue.

There will be no TMZ, Insider Tonight, or other tabloid news reporters anywhere near Augusta National unless they are in the trees surrounding the property. Stevie said he had a dozen news trucks parked outside his New Zealand home when the news broke and they followed his family’s every move. At the Masters you won’t find anyone but credentialed, long time golf correspondents from around the world, and any interviews will probably be controlled by Billy Payne himself. Any suspect questions will be immediately scratched and they will move on to the next reporter as the perpetrator is escorted from the hallowed press room.

It’s time to get back to golf, I think we’re all tired of the “Tiger Watch”. A good friend of mine, who happens to be a golf writer, told me awhile back he learned that our sports figures should never be our heroes. Our heroes should be closer to home, people we know from everyday life, and folks we are completely sure about in every way. Parents, teachers, friends, and relatives should be the ones we admire.

Talented sports figures are athletically gifted not necessarily morally dignified, and with all their entitlements temptations are lurking constantly. I’m not sure a lot of us could live in Tiger’s world and walk through unscathed; it’s not as easy as it looks. Maybe we should cut him some slack. I think I will but only after he reconnects with his fans, conducts himself in a gentlemanly manner on the course as Tom Watson suggested, and mixes with the masses a bit more.

We have to remember Tiger’s lifelong goals were based only around golf, this family thing came along recently and he’ll need to balance his act like Jack did for so many years. The Masters starts a year of majors at sites where Tiger has a pretty good history. There have been wins at Pebble, St. Andrews, and a good showing at Whistling Straits so the Grand Slam is feasible.

Hopefully his golf won’t disrupt his therapy schedule and he can slide back into his family life while he’s tracking down Bobby Jones’ and Jack’s legend. They put their family life before their golf, maybe there’s more we can learn from golf legends than just golf. Take a look Tiger and see how your heroes conducted themselves. Bobby learned how to control an awful temper and during tournaments Jack often flew home for family activities, he wasn’t out carousing the Perkins parking lots. Take a few notes, you’ve learned a lot about golf from them, maybe there are a few other lessons on life.  

Take care.

Mark

Mark Huber is a semi-retired PGA Tour caddy doing a little writing. You can contact him at markskaddykorner@gmail.com or check out www.MarksKaddyKorner.com for more stories about golf and life. He's caddied twenty-one years on every tour for over fifty players mainly Bob Murphy, Ray Floyd, Doug Tewell, and worked for Tom Watson twice in 2009. Mark grew up in Havana, IL attended Illinois State on a baseball scholarship and played semi-pro ball with the Eau Claire Cavaliers after spring training with the White Sox way back when. He is a die-hard Cubs fan.

Mark has freelanced for many sites, including ESPN. He will now be contributing his insights to Docksquad Sports

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TRANSITIONS CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS - by MARK HUBER

Transitions Championship – Innisbrook – Tarpon Springs, FL           

The Transitions Championship (a few other sponsors also) has been coming to Innisbrook since 2000 and prior to that the Mixed Team PGA/LPGA was held here in the late 80's and early 90's. It was a lot of fun back then, still challenging, but it was the off season and a chance to make a little Christmas money. Now the course has been redesigned (1999), lengthened, and toughened up enough that a major could be staged here.

During the Mixed Team we were gathered around VCR's watching a Jerry Springer show depicting the first professional caddy ever to undergo a sex change operation, how appropriate for that event. We also had to bail a couple of players out of jail but we won't go there either. Today the boys are grinding, trying to make Augusta if not already in, and looking to conquer the ninth most difficult course on tour. This is the first week in Florida caddies will use their range finder's elevation change mechanism, Innisbrook looks like it should be in the Carolinas. There are 100 foot elevation changes throughout the course, something very unusual for a Florida tract.

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WANTED: A GOALIE FOR THE PLAYOFFS - by Vishal Patel

WANTED: A GOALIE FOR THE PLAYOFFS.  If found, please contact Chicago Blackhawks at the Madhouse on Madison, asap.  It was another heart-breaking loss on Sunday to the Capitals.  The Hawks blew another lead, giving them a March record of 3-4-1.  Antti Niemi was goal-tending well the first 2 periods, but then he squandered a three-goal lead in the third period.  What hurts more, is that Washington's Alex Ovechkin (the league's leading scorer this season) was sent to the locker room in the first period, getting a game misconduct for knocking Brian Campbell into the boards.  With him in the locker room, and a 3 goal lead, the Hawks should have come out with a win. 

Now everybody's worried.  The team is good, but will they be able to make it to the Stanley Cup this season? Will they even go far in the playoffs? The poor goal-tending has Chicago fans nervous.  There's an intense goalie battle between Niemi and Cristobal Huet, but neither is making a strong case to start in the playoffs.  I do believe that will change as we near the playoffs though.  I would rather they play poorly now, than at the end of the season.  They both still have time to turn it around before the playoffs. If I had to pick one at this point, I might go with Niemi.  He's young and is gaining some valuable experience against some good teams. Either way, Niemi and Huet, we need you!

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MARK'S KADDY KORNER - WEEK OFF - RANDOM THOUGHTS

Just some random thoughts this week since there was no tournament scheduled for the old guys, the week off was nice but started off crappy and got worse. I think I mentioned last week Los Angeles isn’t one of my favorite places and flying has lost its appeal. Once I’m up in the air everything is fine, it’s just all the hoopla that surrounds it.

Our 7:00 a.m. flight was canceled Monday morning and we were rebooked for the next morning. Airtran did all they could to make up for the mechanical problems putting us up at the Westin and providing fifteen dollars for each meal but that didn’t go far. Lunch at the Westin, two sandwiches, appetizer, ice tea and two beers totaled $70 with tip. That’s the L.A. I despise. Back home the same meal would have been 25 to 30 bucks.

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A LOOK AT THIS YEAR'S MARCH MADNESS

For a lot of sports fanatics, March Madness is probably one of their favorite times of the year in Sports. There is nothing better than going to the bars with your buddies to watch March Madness, brackets in hand. It is definitely one of my favorite times of the year in Sports! Only during March Madness do we get to see teams like Cleveland State knock off Wake Forest in the first round of the tournament, or a player like Steph Curry carry his team on a magical run, where we get to see teams like George Mason make the Final Four by getting hot at the right time in the tourney. That is why the tournament is so exciting, and why people love it…But to me, the best part about March Madness is if you actually pick these upsets in your March Madness bracket sheets, and if you end up winning your pools! Which 12 seed is going to knock off a 5 seed this year? Which number 1 seed is going to fall first? These are the questions that will take over our minds for the next few days. And when you win your bracket, you can brag and boast to your buddies about your sports knowledge, which is a great feeling if you are a sports junkie.

So, since I watched a ton of College Basketball this year, I wanted to chime in about this year’s tournament. Anyways, here are some of my thoughts about this 2009 tourney that will be starting in a couple of days. Hopefully these thoughts will put you in a better position to win some pools this year, especially if you have not had a chance to watch many of these teams play this year…

Now when picking my overall tournament winner, I usually look for teams with a solid PG, a solid Big Man. A good wing, a nice bench, and a solid Coach help for sure, but you always need a sick guard to lead you to the promise land. This formula has worked for me in the past, so I will stick with it again this year. In my opinion, you need a solid PG to run your team and control the tempo of the game come tournament time, but most importantly, you need a solid PG to keep your team poised in crunch time. Big man wise, you need a solid big man to depend on in the post, when your team’s jump shots are not falling, and you will need your big to defend the post in crunch time. This year’s tournament is probably the most open one in years, but in my eyes these following teams have the most important factors, which is why I think the eventual Champion will come from one of these teams…

The Big Guns…

Kansas - Collins is amazing. Chitown represent baby! The kid controls and dictates the tempo of the game, and comes through in every single clutch situation he has been put in. He is a competitor to the fullest, and he is one of the main reasons why I think this team wins the tournament. Cole Aldridge is a beast to. He will rebound and block shots all game long. Last year I didn’t think they were experienced enough to win it all, but I think last year helped them get to where they are now. This year they have it all, and have been the best team in the nation. They have the talent, and they are experienced in the most important spots, PG and Center. Remember I said if you have a solid PG and a good big you will do well, and this squad has two of the best at their positions there. Henry has kind of flown under the radar this year, but he is one of the best freshmen players out there. Wall has gotten all the hype, but Henry has been a very solid player for the Hawks. Taylor can help with the scoring as well. Marcus Morris has really turned it on too, which definitely helps Cole down low. In the end, Kansas is too well balanced, has too much depth (awesome bench players), and are just too well coached to loose early in this tournament. I know they play in the hardest bracket, but I think they are hands down the best team in this tournament. In my opinion, they will find a way to make the Title game, and win it all.

Kentucky – What an exciting year it’s been for UK fans. They were able to snag Coach Cal, which was huge for them. He brought with him some of the best freshmen in College, including THE best freshmen, John Wall. The kid is just a sick player. If you haven’t seen him play, you need to watch his game. He has a ton of swagger, and always comes through in the clutch. He can score from everywhere on the court, and can really take over a game at anytime. Cal also brought in DeMarcus Cousins, who is a beast down low. The guy is a rebounding machine, and can score with the best of them. Another sick freshmen for this team is Eric Bledsoe. Bledsoe is a very athletic player, and a solid shooter. They also have a great player down low who gets lost in the freshmen hype, and that is Patrick Patterson. Patterson coming back really helped this squad achieve what they did. He gives them that low post presence that is needed deep into the tournament. This team has a sick PG in John Wall, and two solid big men down low. They also have a lot of different scoring options, and a great Coach. They have not played some of the best competition like some other teams have, and they are young, but sometimes talent prevails. In Kentucky’s case, they are just loaded with too much talent not to make it to the Title game. Their bracket isn’t too bad either. Look for a Melo type run by John Wall in this tournament. I think they make it to the Finals, but lose to Kansas.

Syracuse – This squad’s zone defense is nasty. It always has been, but something about this year’s D stands out to me. They cause matchup problems for everyone they face as well. They have some great players in Wes Johnson, Andy Rautins, and Onuaku (who should be ok for the tournament). They have solid guards, a nice big man, a nice bench, great defense, and they are well coached. These things are important if you want to make a deep run in the tourney. I think they got shafted because they have to go west. Their bracket has a couple of land mines, but isn’t as bad as the Midwest at all. If they can play like they have been playing all year long, look for this team to make the Final Four.


One of these three teams wins it all in my opinion. In the end, I’m going with Kansas…
Ok so those are the big guns. Now I will list a couple of contenders for the title, some dark horse teams that are talented and can make runs, and a couple of sleeper teams that no one has probably seen play or heard of. This might help you out when completing your bracket sheet…

Legit Contenders...that I’m not sold on...

Disclaimer - The squads on this list will probably make it deep into the tournament. I have them listed here because I just don't see them actually winning the entire thing...

Duke - Duke is always on TV, so trust me, I've seen them play a lot this year. This team no doubt has some talent with Scheyer and Singler, but they just don't have that "it" factor for me. Their defense has been sick, but they are going to struggle vs. faster, more athletic teams. I just feel like they don't have a PG that can control the tempo in big ball games, and this will hurt them later in the tournament. They do have the easiest bracket out of all the teams out there. How they got this, no one knows, but we know everyone loves Duke, so go figure.

Ohio State – Ohio State has been great all year long. Evan Turner should be the National Player of the Year. Their starting five you can put up vs. almost anyone’s in the country, and not be scared at all. But this team has two weaknesses in the tournament, and that is why I do not think they will have a deep run. Their first big weakness is size. They have Lauderdale, who is a hard working big man, but he really isn’t even that big. After him, there isn’t much there. They have a very tough bracket, and will face a Georgetown team quickly into the tournament. I just don’t see how they beat a team with size like Georgetown. Their second weakness is depth. They have none. In the tournament, if you want to win, you need some decent bench players. OSU doesn’t have that luxury, and that is going to cost them big. Evan Turner can’t keep playing the entire game and keep doing everything for them. He is going to get worn out. GUESS WE’LL SEE, but it’s going to take some heroics from Evan Turner again if this squad wants to contend for the Title.

Kansas State – This is definitely one of the best teams in the country that a lot of people have not seen play. Denis Clemente and Jacob Pullen are a nasty back combo for this team. They have also played and beaten some of the best teams in the country, so they are battled tested, that is for sure. But with that being said, I kind of feel sorry for this team because their bracket is just too deadly. I don’t seem them matching up with a lot of the teams there, especially BYU and PITT.

Villanova – They got a nice team, with a star guard in Scottie Reynolds and a good big man in Pena, but what scares me about this team is that they rely on the 3 ball a little bit too much. They also ended the season by losing 5 out of their last 7 games, which just proves to me that they are to inconsistent to win it all. They got a nice back court in Stokes and Reynolds, but both of them will need to get hot, especially Reynolds. This is a guard oriented squad that can score with the best of them, but in the tournament you have to defend too. In the end, if they go cold, they will be out of the tournament sooner than later. One thing that they have going for them is their bracket. It is a lot easier that some of the other teams listed above, so don’t have them getting knocked off too early on your sheets.

The Rest of the Best…

Georgetown – I love this squad! I was sad to see them in the same bracket as OSU and Kansas though…just doesn’t seem fair at all. They have the guard play with Wright and Freeman and they have a solid big man in Greg Monroe, who can do it all. Vaughn is also another solid contributor for this team as well. Their Princeton style offense also gives opponents fits, with all those cuts and screens. They have played and beaten some of the best teams in the country, which definitely helps. They also have great chemistry, which is huge for the tournament. They just need to be focuses and play at a high level consistently, but their road will be tough. The Midwest is just the toughest bracket out there. While I do see them knocking off OSU, I just don’t think they can beat Kansas in the end.

WVU – Here’s another squad I love. They got robbed in their seeding, that is for sure. If you haven’t seen Da’Sean Butler play, you’ve been missing out. The kid is a big time, big game player, and you will see him put on a show in this tournament. Ebanks is also solid, and Mazzulla is the engine that runs this team. They are well coached and versatile. The only thing that worries me about this team is their offense. It has disappeared at times, which is a cause for concern. I do think they have a nice bracket, so I do see them making a deep run in this tournament, possibly even an Elite 8 type run, but coming up short.

MSU – Every year, everyone counts out MSU, but every single year this team makes it deep into the tournament. It is just amazing. This is a team that can cause mismatch problems and they have good depth on their roster to wear you down. They are also one of the best rebounding teams in the game, which is huge during tournament time. When games slow down and teams play half court basketball, MSU is at its best. Lucas and Morgan are big time players, who will turn it on come tournament time. They also have one of the best coaches in Tom Izzo. Look for them to do well and surprise some people, but they also play in the Bracket of Death, the Midwest. Kansas should knock them off.

Baylor – Here’s a team that not a lot of people have seen play. Take my word for it, they are nasty. You have to give their Coach Scott Drew some credit for turning this program around. People picked this team to be one of the worst teams, and they proved everyone wrong. This is a very streaky team, but they got a pretty nice bracket setup for them. They are led by Tweety Carter and LaceDarius Dunn, another nice back court. The tournament is Guard oriented, and this run and gun squad will give a lot of team’s problems.

Sleepers…

These are some of the teams not too many people have seen play. Hopefully these sleeper sections help you with your early rounds. None of these teams will win it all, but they are capable of winning a couple of games if they get hot…

These are my real sleepers won can win more than one game…

BYU – I don’t know to describe this team to you and I don’t know if this line will make sense, but this team plays like a team. They love to pass and do the little things, and they and is skilled at every position on the floor. BYU is led by Jim Fredette, who is a sick player. His backcourt mate Jackson Emery is awesome too, and they have Tavernari off the bench, who is another major contributor. I really feel like this is a team that if they can get to play Cuse, can give Cuse some problems. Fredette can and will break that zone, he is that good. They also have a nice bench and are playing close to home, so look out for them.

Marquette – I love this squad and what they have done this year. Coach Buzz Williams has also been amazing. This was a Marquette team that lost their three best players from last year, and was supposed to be rebuilding. Instead, come into the tournament as one of the most dangerous teams in it. They are led by forward Lazar Hayward, who can score from all over. Inside, outside, Hayward can do it all. Jimmy Butler is also another solid player for this squad. Butler is always in the right place at the right time, always hits big shots, and always gets his hands on everything. One player that a lot of people sleep on is DJO. Darius Johnson-Odom. This kid has really come on as of late, and can score in bunches, as he showed in the Big East tournament. Those three guys are joined by two other consistent, three point shooting, Senior Guards in Acker and Cubillan. If you go back and look at their schedule you will see that these guys are the cardiac kids. One thing that sticks out to you when looking at their schedule is the fact that they rarely get blown out. They play so hard and are one of the toughest teams out there. I love this team because they play with heart and leave it all out on the floor in every game. That comes from their Coach, who is just as fiery as this team. They definitely have sweet sixteen potential. I think they get by a hot, but inconsistent Washington team in the first round.

Oklahoma State – James Anderson….that is all you need to know about this squad. If you have watched him play, you know this kid is one of the sickest guards out there. Anderson and Houston’s Coleman are the kind of players that can get hot and literally put their team on their backs in this tournament. Also this is the same squad that beat Kansas, Baylor, Kansas State, and Texas Tech this year, so you know they are capable of beating some of the higher seeds in this tournament. Again, James Anderson. If you haven’t seen him play, watch them play in this tournament.

Gonzaga – This team is really not a sleeper but a lot of people don’t get to watch them play because they play out West. Bouldin leads this squad, and they will go as far as he can take them. Elias Harris is another nice player on this team, but like Bouldin, he has been streaky. When it all is said and done, Bouldin is that kind of difference maker that can help his team win some ballgames, so don’t be surprised to see the Zags do what they do best, and that is win. They are also well coached, which is always a plus come tournament time.

Cornell – This is not your typical Ivy League squad. This is a squad that has played together for some time now, and that has one of the best players in the country that no one has heard of in Ryan Wittman. He also has help from another nice player in Dale. They also have good role players in Foote and Jaques, which will help come tournament time. Another thing to check out is their schedule from this year. They actually scheduled and played some of the best teams in the country, and held their ground. The bottom line is that this team has played together for a while and they been to the tournament before and are battled tested. Don’t be surprised if they win a couple of games.

Siena – This team never gets enough shine. They have only knocked off two major conference teams in their last two tournaments. You should remember them from that crazy game last year vs. OSU, which they pulled out. They come back with most of the same squad from last year, which allowed them to coast through the MAAC this year. I know they haven’t really beaten anyone good this year, but this team has the experience to win in the tournament. I think they knock off a reeling Purdue team in the first round.

ND – Luke Harangody’s injury was the best thing that happened to this team. It gave ND’s other players a chance to step into the spotlight, and they stepped up to the challenge. ND changed up their style to a slower tempo game, and it worked. They went from being a bubble team to one of the hottest teams in the country at the end of the year. And now that Harangody is back, they look like they are ready to make a run. Hansbrough, and Jackson are a great back court, and Abromaitis and Nash are solid forwards as well. I definitely see them winning a game or two.

Deep Sleepers...

Richmond – This Richmond squad really impresses me. Check out the schedule they played and some of the good teams they beat. This team can play and Kevin Anderson is a player. I like them pulling the upset in the first round.

UTEP – This team finished the season on a tear, and they played a tough schedule throughout the year. This is a dangerous team. They got two difference makers in guard Randy Culpepper and F Derrick Caracter, who can play inside and outside. I wouldn’t be surprised seeing them winning a game or two.

Northern Iowa – This is a very good defensive ball club. Like a stifling defense type squad. They can frustrate you by dictating the tempo of the ball game. They also got conference player of the year Sr. Adam Koch. This is a senior laden team, and those kinds of teams always do well in the tournament.

Murray State – This team only lost one conference game and four games overall this year. This is also a rowdy squad because all of their starters average double figures in points. When is the last time you saw that in a team? That balance will definitely help them in the tournament, so watch out.

Utah State – This squad is led by PG Jared Quayle and F Tai Wesley. Stew Morrill is also a great Coach, who has a rowdy offense. They have a ton of different kinds of plays and sets, which can confuse teams who have never played them before. This is a squad that won 14 straight games. You don’t win that many games in a row if you aren’t a good squad. They can be this year’s Cinderella, you never know.

Houston – I know this is kind of a stretch but how can you not love this squad? They are led by Aubrey Coleman, the nation’s leading scorer. The kid is a scoring machine. They also got Kevin Lewis who is a nasty three point bomber. They got some decent bigs who do their job and rebound too. And lastly, they are led by a great coach in Tom Penders, also called Tournament Tom. It’ll be tough for them to make a run, but don’t underestimate them.

Anyways, sorry for the long post, but those are my thoughts on this year’s tournament. I hope they come in handy when you are filling out your bracket, so good luck! LET THE GAMES BEGIN!!!

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CA CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS - by Mark Huber

The CA Championship has only been coming to Doral since 2007; my first trip here was 1988. Back then the Blue Monster was probably one of the toughest courses on tour, now it ranks eighth easiest among the par 72 tracks on tour. If the wind doesn’t blow the top players in the world eat this course alive.

In the late 90’s the Doral Resort and Spa owners brought in Ray Floyd to toughen up the layout and put some teeth in the Blue Monster. He followed their orders, added some bunkers, tee boxes, and created some doglegs to challenge the tour players. After some sniveling and whining the course was softened again and Raymond took some unnecessary criticism for ruining the Blue Monster. He was only following orders and the pampered PGA Tour players couldn’t handle the challenge.

Miami has grown up around the resort and it’s not the type of neighborhood you want to hang around. You show up, caddy, and get back to your room before dark. Tucked in behind those guarded gates is a resort only the rich can enjoy and they have for years. They take good care of us behind the walls but after you leave you’re on your own. Luckily no one has lost a life and only one caddy has been shot over the years.

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WHEN EVAN TURNER MET SHAQ

Evan Turner on meeting Shaq in Chicago when he was 12 years old...

Evan Turner on meeting Shaq

Thanks to Doug L from the Plain Dealer for this video...

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NBA Power Rankings -- Week 18 (Amar Panchmatia Flying Solo Again)

With the recent champions of these power rankings, the Cleveland Cavaliers, missing their franchise player in LeBron James due to injury over the weekend, it is appropriate that we'll have to do this week's rankings without DSS's franchise player, Vik.

And speaking of the Cavs, do they really deserve to keep the No. 1 spot anymore? I know they have the best record and all, but there's a team out there that is playing better than anybody -- and I mean, anybody -- right now.

1. (3) Dallas Mavericks (44-21)

• Mavs fo! These guys have won 12 straight, and it's time to give them credit. Donnie Nelson should be in the running for Executive of the Year after landing both Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood for Josh Howard and Drew Gooden, two guys who have become trivial pieces elsewhere. Does anybody realize that the Mavs are also just 2.5 games behind the Lake Show for the West's top seed? Dallas' upcoming schedule: Nets, Knicks, Bulls, Celtics (all at home).

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Kevin Durant: Is Oklahoma City a Big Enough Stage for the Next NBA Superstar? By Amar Panchmatia

Even Magic Johnson is boggled by the fact that KD35 plays in...Oklahoma City?

There are a few things to keep in mind when you are watching your next Kevin Durant highlight on ESPN's "Sportscenter."

First, Durant—the blossoming young superstar out of the University of Texas —is only 21-years-old. Second, he is only in his third season in the league after pulling a one-and-done deal with the Longhorns in 2006-07.

Third, his numbers at this age and stage of his career (29.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.4 steals, and 47.7 percent shooting from the field through Sunday) are comparable with the game's current "golden boy," LeBron James. When James was in his third season in the league at age 21, he averaged 31.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals on 48 percent shooting.

James, with his 6.6 assists in his third season, was the better passer, but Durant—with his 37.8 percent three-point mark and 88.3 percent free throw percentage—is a better shooter than LeBron was back then.

Both Durant and James are listed as small forwards. And although it has not become official yet, Durant will probably make the playoffs for the first time this season, his third year in the NBA. LeBron also cracked the league's postseason for the first time in his third season.

There is one more thing that Durant and James share in common: neither one of them plays in a large or glamorous media market.

For James, it is different. He grew up just 30 miles south of Cleveland in Akron, Ohio, and he is as familiar with the area as you could imagine. He has resurrected a franchise in the Cavaliers that has been around since 1970 and is on the verge of delivering a championship to a historic yet title-starved sports town. Cleveland has seen better days, and none of its major sports teams have won a title since 1964—46 long years ago.

And although Cleveland isn't exactly New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, or Los Angeles, let's get this straight right now: It's certainly a more visible market than Oklahoma City, which Durant calls home.

With a metro population of around 1.2 million, Oklahoma City is effectively the smallest market in the entire NBA (yes, including Salt Lake City, Memphis, and San Antonio). On top of that, the Thunder are only in their second year of existence and are the only professional sports team in a city that has virtually no history in that department.

Things have worked out for James seven years into his career. The Cavaliers have become a first-class organization that continually has one of the league's highest payrolls.

But rumors still surround James about the possibility of him eventually leaving Cleveland this summer as an unrestricted free agent. With the New York Knicks, the team located in the country's No. 1 media market, having salary cap space, many have viewed that as a marriage waiting to happen.

If it makes sense for James—which many believe it does—then it makes sense for Durant, too. In fact, it may make even more sense for him.

The Thunder have virtually no fanbase outside of Oklahoma City. There is a negative stigma that surrounds the franchise in the wake of their owner's controversial move from Seattle, which had the franchise for 40-plus years. Many longtime NBA fans who fondly remember the Sonics and Seattle's place in basketball history vehemently root against the Thunder because of the manner in which their owner, Clay Bennett, uprooted the team.

And although this is the case more than you may want to think, it is also a downright shame. The relocation is of no fault of the team's players, who have become a dynamic young group that fit around each other well and feed off of their young superstar.

But although diehard sports fans know his name well, Durant is not nearly as much of a household name as LeBron James was during his third season in the league. Given the similarities in their productivity and significance to their respective teams, that just does not make any sense.

The Thunder are almost never on national television. In fact, teams with inferior records, such as Miami, Chicago, San Antonio, and Portland, have been on national TV more than Oklahoma City.

Despite a season that should place him right in the discussion for the league's MVP award, Durant has not even crossed the league's top 10 in jersey sales. In fact, he ranks 15th, with players such as David Lee, Pau Gasol, Derrick Rose, and even a washed-up Allen Iverson ranking ahead of him.

While Nike built ad campaigns and slogans centered around James in his third season ("We Are All Witnesses") and gave him his own line of shoes, the company stuck Durant with B-listers like Rashard Lewis, Andre Iguodala, and Mo Williams in their "Hyperizers" campaign this past summer. Hardly befitting of a guy battling LeBron himself for the league's scoring title.

Facts and statistics like those beg the question: Would Durant be the megastar he was meant to be if he played in a larger market with a franchise more visible than the Thunder?

Even had the Sonics stayed in Seattle, this would probably be a moot point right now given Seattle's respectable size and the rich history of the Supersonics. The sports media would not be anywhere close to even beginning to mercilessly cram him down your throat the way they have LeBron.

Yet ask a casual sports fan if he or she knows who Kevin Durant is, and the response you get won't be anything close to justifying the special season this 21-year-old kid is having right now.

Durant is scheduled to be a restricted free agent following the 2010-11 season, during which the Thunder can match any offer he receives. He is also up for a contract extension this summer, and although he has come out and said that he does not worry about these things, he will have to start worrying about them sooner than he wants to.

And there will be a lot of people in his ear, so don't put too much stock in his down-to-earth attitude and amicable words for Oklahoma City if you are a Thunder fan.

If he continues to let the process play out instead of committing to the franchise by 2011, he can sign a one-year tender and become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2012, when he will only be—get this—23-years-old.

With the league's Collective Bargaining Agreement expiring after the 2010-11 season and rumors of decreasing player salaries after that, OKC fans do have hope of keeping their superstar around beyond just his rookie contract. In fact, these circumstances may be what leads Durant to ultimately re-sign in Oklahoma City—at least for a few years—beyond his current deal.

And that's one more thing to keep in mind the next time you see No. 35 on "Sportscenter" in the days and weeks to come.

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QUICK TAKE WITH DWIGHT HOWARD - by Amit T

Hey everyone, it's Amit again. I hope you liked my last interview with Marcus Hall.  At the games I attend this season, I will be doing my best to get some quick interviews with some of the League's best Superstars.

On Friday, I was able to interview Superman aka Dwight Howard, of the Orlando Magic. I was able to give him a photograph that I put together of him from the last game I attended back in October. Anyways, here is my quick take with Dwight Howard...

AT: Hey Dwight, I hope you like the photo I gave you.

DH: Yeah, that's very nice of you, thanks. That's a nice photo of me for sure.

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NBA TITLE CONTENDERS - by Justin D

Each year millions of fans renew their love for their team with a new season of promise and possibility. And each year, when it's all said and done, all but one fan base is left wondering what could have been done differently. Fans of teams that did not win the championship can be broken down into one of three categories. There are the fans of the playoff teams that say, “We were so close, if only our sixth man was on or if we hadn’t lost our center to a toe injury.” The fans of the teams that just miss the playoffs who say, “If only a couple guys had played up to their potential we could have made some noise in the playoffs.” And then there's the last group who gripe, “Let’s hope for a good draft, some luck and let’s just be thankful we aren’t the Clippers.” (I had so much fun watching Griffin play this year)...

In reality, only a handful of teams have any shot at an NBA World Championship every year, and you can pick them out before the season starts. If you had to pick a group of five teams and one of those five had to win the championship, you’d be hard-pressed to not pick a winner. That’s because when it comes to NBA playoffs, unlike the NFL, the better teams almost always win a series, unless it’s just a slightly worse team playing better. And unlike baseball where two ace pitchers can take you the distance (think 2001 Diamondbacks), in the NBA no matter how good a player is, he still needs help to be a champion.

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