April 30
43 years ago on April 30th, 1967, Steve Barber of the Detroit Tigers and Stu Miller of the Baltimore Orioles both pitched a no-hitter in the same game against each other. The Orioles would lose 2–1 because of a wild pitch and an error allowing two runs to score in the top of the 9th inning. The Tiger drew 10 walks to Baltimore's 4 walks. This was the 2nd combined no-hitter in MLB history.
Here's the box score
Happy Birthday to Isiah Thomas. Zeke turns 49 today
Friday, April 30, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
Thursday, April 29, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 29
24 yrs ago on April 29,1986, Roger Clemens stuck out 20 Seattle Mariners and gave up only 3 hits in a complete game 9 inning outing. The Red Sox won the game 3-1.
Finally, we know his secret to success...
Baseball Almanac game recap
23 years ago on April 29, 1987, Andre Dawson hit for the cycle. In his debut year with the Chicago Cubs, Andre hit career highs in HRs (49) and RBIs (147) and would go on to win the NL MVP award that year.
He's a recap of his epic 1987 season with the Cubs.
PART 1
Part 2
Happy 27th Birthday to Da Bears QB, Jay Cutler
Happy 40th to Andre Agassi
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Drake brings the UK basketball team on stage!!!
Video from YouTube of Drizzy bringing the home town University of Kentucky basketball team on stage during his concert in Lexington yesterday. Coach Calipari even makes an appearance on stage! Say what you want about him, but this is another example of him being able to connect with black America on a level that most white coaches can't. John Wall is rocking the black shades. You think this had some kind of Worldwide Wes and LeBron James connection to it?
Somewhere, Rick Pitino just shit his pants...
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 28th
20 years ago, on 4/28/1990, the Boston Celtics destroyed the NY Knicks 157-128 to take a 2-0 lead in the 1st round of the Eastern Conference playoffs. The 157 pts scored by the Celtics is an NBA record. Kevin Gamble was in during garbage time and hit an 18 foot buzzer beater to the end the game. That last bucket broke the old record set by the Milwaukee Bucks on March 30, 1970 when they scored 156 pts vs the Philly 76ers.
The Knicks loss to the Celtics was their 26th consecutive loss (18 reg season and 8 playoff) to them in the Boston Garden. Miraculously, the Knicks would do the impossible by winning the next 3 games to take the series 3-2!
Here's a video of the final minutes of the game and post game interviews.
NY Times article - game recap
Happy 46th Birthday to 12-time All-Star, 9-time Silver Slugger, 3-time Gold-Glover, 1995 NL MVP, 1990 World Series champion, and one of the greatest ever at his position...former Cincinnati Reds SS, BARRY LARKIN!
Barry's son, Shane Larkin is a Rivals Top 100 High School Basketball Prospect and is considered one of the Top 20 PGs in the country for the class of 2011. Shane played for the Florida Assault and had a strong showing at the 2010 King James Shooting Stars Classic this past weekend. Check out the tournament results HERE.
Happy 44th Birthday to John Daly
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
MARK'S KADDY KORNER - LIBERTY MUTUAL LEGENDS OF GOLF by MARK HUBER
Whispers, the first tee starter, greets every player and announces to the crowd, “Let’s give them a sweet Savannah welcome” and everyone does just that all week. Savannah opens its arms, homes and restaurants, the hospitality is unbelievable and the Liberty Mutual Legends of golf has been coming here since 2003. Doug Tewell was the defending that year and it was nice to be back together, the golf wasn’t very good but the reminiscing was fun.
Savannah Harbor Resort and Spa occupies the north side of the river across from downtown, and despite the “no-seeums” it’s a great links style course, perfect for the old-timers, new young guns, and accommodates the nice crowds. The field has been watered down a bit over the years and we know play a team event for official money but its fun watching the gallery follow their favorite legends. Starting Monday there are players from eighty to fifty years old teeing it up and competing like the good old days, but most important they’re out having fun with old friends. Golf really keeps folks together like no other sport.
I find myself hanging out around the clubhouse gathering autographs from Gary Player, Lee Trevino, and Fred Couples something I normally don’t do each week. The old caddies and players hangout, sit around telling stories, giving each other a hard time along with some hugs. A lot of guys you only see this week it is more like a reunion than a tournament. The best reunion this week was the Ken Green – Mike Reid pairing and it over shadowed every other story.
Ken lost his girlfriend, brother, dog, and leg in a motor home accident less than a year ago. Nobody expected him to play golf again but he was here hitting lovely 150 yard five irons perched on a prosthesis. He never was a favorite of many; his brashness used to be a bit over bearing, but when he walked off eighteen each day there was a group of players, caddies, press, and spectators greeting him with admiration. I watched one day as the press surrounded him and he answered questions with a smile for almost an hour. His story is tragic yet inspirational.
Like I said the hospitality is great, especially for me. Sixteen years ago I met Joe and Kathleen Boggs in Pinehurst, NC, they know live in Savannah and they built me a nice little spot above their garage. Its home for the week and I get to spend a lot of time with their kids, Liam and Shea, plus get a home cooked meal every night. You can’t beat it. Shea actually attended The Legends when she was three days old and it was fun to watch them wander the course Saturday afternoon.
It was great to be back with Doug and his wife Pam for the week. I’ve been working with Doug off and on since 1989, they are wonderful people, but Doug hadn’t played competitively for three years and it showed. The heart was willing but the game wasn’t quite ready for competition. We made some adjustments, tried to hit a little extra club each shot, but we struggled hitting long irons or utility clubs into most greens. There were a few gems and we helped our partner Bob Gilder a couple of shots each day but it wasn’t the same as those tournament winning years 1999 – 2005. There were occasional sparks but no continuous fire all week but we had fun despite the high scores and nasty weather.
Our opening round 66 gave us some inspiration but we floundered a bit on the weekend and finished thirteen under deep back in the pack. The only respite was the caddy hospitality tent where each day a local Savannah restaurant catered a mass of starving caddies. Paula Dean of Food Channel fame served up a Southern country style meal early in the week and when the word got out players, tour officials, volunteers, and a few vagabonds were looking for the caddy chow line. We’re not used to this, kudos go out to Brian Goin and his Championship Management team for the southern hospitality.
Liberty Mutual has been sponsoring the Legends since its inception, 1980 I believe, and it has been bouncing around a bit. Hopefully it has found a home in Savannah, everyone loves everything about the week, the complaints are minimal which is unusual among players and caddies, and the sponsors do a great job of entertaining their corporate guests. The players put on a good show and everyone thoroughly enjoys the atmosphere surrounding this tournament across from the quaint little harbor town.
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...
Mark has freelanced for many sites, including ESPN. He will now be contributing his insights to Docksquad Sports...
BEARS FANS, MEET MATT FORTE THIS SATURDAY
Bears fans come meet Matt Forte this Saturday. I will definitely be there! Here are some more details on the Event...
Matt Forte will be at the 244 S. State St. GNC store from 12-2pm to help kick off Gatorade’s new G Series Pro products, which will be available exclusively at GNC on May 1.
During the G Series Pro launch on May 1, consumers will be able to:
· Have a professional photographer take your picture with Matt Forte· Receive an autographed photo (while supplies last)
· First access to sample the new G Series Pro products
At all GNC locations on May 1, consumers will also be invited to sign a contract to “Go Pro.” In doing so, they will receive an entry to the “Train Like a Pro” sweepstakes for a chance to win an opportunity to train with a trainer at world class facility as well as nutrition assessment and performance testing from GSSI. Also on May 1, you will also receive exclusive access to the beta version of Pro Training System, the new online training system for elite athlete that has sports-specific training information, tools and resources. May 1st will be consumers’ only opportunity to get in.
Click Here to Read More..
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 27
Happy 58th Birthday to 12-time NBA/ABA All Star, and one of the 50 Greatest ever to play the game, George "The Iceman" Gervin. The Iceman scored in double figures in 407 consecutive games. He also captured the league scoring title 4 times, and many people don't know this, but he played his final year on the Chicago Bulls in 1985-86 playing in all 82 games averaging 16.2 ppg. He played alongside MJ before MJ was injured for the rest of the season with a broken foot.
Here's a video on the Iceman and his trademark shot, The Finger roll.
Happy 35th Birthday to the 2005 NL Cy Young award winner, 2006 World Series Champion, and 2009 NL Comeback Player of the Year, St Louis Cardinals SP, CHRIS CARPENTER.
FYI...Carpenter gets the start vs the Atlanta Braves tonight.
Monday, April 26, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 26th
Happy 47th Birthday to former Chicago Bulls Center, Bill Wennington. If you were lucky enough to live in Chicago 11-12 years ago, you probably remember when the Beef Wennington was on the menu at McDonald's. It consisted of a single patty topped with cheese, onions, barbecue sauce and a slice of Canadian bacon.
While the effects Jordan had on Wennington’s career were profound, perhaps none were bigger than a marketing opportunity that came Wennington’s way in the late 1990s.
Wennington was filming a commercial for McDonald’s double cheeseburgers, talking with everyone involved and having a lot of fun with it. Word about his personality made its way to upper management, and before long, the Beef Wennington was born.
That begs the question: Without Michael, would there have even been a Beef Wennington, that delicious single patty topped with cheese, onions, barbecue sauce and a slice of Canadian bacon?
“Yes,” Wennington said with a smile, “But it wouldn’t have been marketed by McDonald’s… it would have been on the grill at Wennington’s humble abode.”
Bet you didn't know Bill was a McDonald's High School All-American back in 1981 and played alongside Patrick Ewing, Chris Mullin, and Michael Jordan.
Link to the NBA.COM article
Click here to join the BRING BACK BEEF WENNINGTON!! Facebook club
Friday, April 23, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 23
Howard Cosell died 15 years ago today. He's considered the greatest sportscaster of our time. He's most remembered for his coverage of Muahammad Ali's boxing career and his stint on Monday Night Football.
Happy Birthday to...
Daniela Hantuchova, who turns 27 yrs old today. She has been ranked as high as #5 in the world in women's singles and has captured the career grand slam in mixed doubles, winning the French Open, Wimbledon, Australian Open, and U.S. Open during her career.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
WE HAVE ALREADY WITNESSED PIC!!! BULLS WIN!!!
Bulls win, Bulls win!!! I got a chance to goto the game (thanks Pravs), and it was sick! With the Bulls it's never easy, but a win is a win. Anyways, I will try to write about the game a little later, but for now, check out this picture and just celebrate!!!
Like the picture says...we have already witnessed! Sorry Lebron, but you aren't MJ!
Real quick...I just want to give DRose some props for playing so well tonight. Rose always plays well, but tonight was one day after his uncle passed away. Rose was really close to his uncle who was also a huge Bulls fan! DRose was on a mission tonight, and now you all know why. If you love Basketball, I don't know how you can hate on Derrick Rose! The kid is amazing...
GO DROSE! GO BULLS!!! Click Here to Read More..
DSS NFL MOCK DRAFT 2010
1. Rams - Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma
- The Rams get the face of their franchise. Sam Bradford gets to rule the midwest just like his Native American ancestors. And in my opinion he'll lead the Rams well, just like his ancestors. Wait...did Native Americans use buffalos or rams? Is this a racist statement? Either way, the Native American, Sam Bradford, is a perfect fit for the Rams. If not, the Bills should definitely make a move to get him. (SV)
2. Lions - Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska
- Lins foo! Please Lins, take Suh here. For real though, your fans deserve it. One of my friends, this kid Sanket, is a die hard Lins fan. Every year he tells me how they are going to make the playoffs, and every year the Lins end up sucking. They end up sucking because every year Millen would try to get cute and smart in the Draft, and then eventually F up. Note to the Lins...don't try to get smart this year...don't trade down or take someone else. Take Suh and team him up with KVB this year. It really is that simple. I know now after the Lins take Suh at 2, I will get 120393 emails, texts, twitter, facebook messages from Sanket saying ahhhh man SUH, SO RAW, HE IS GOING TO EAT CUTLER, HAHAH BEARS HAVE NO PICKS TODAY! FML... (VC)
3. Buccaneers - Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma
- How are there so many Oklahoma Sooners in the first round of this draft? I don't remember them being that good last year. Oh yea, Bradford got injured. Well that must mean that a lot of these Sooners will be busts. Everyone loves this kid. I don't remember him being that great. Meh. (SV)
4. Redskins - Trent Williams , OT, Oklahoma
- This pick is a no brainer for the Skins. Their OLine was putrid last year, and they need to rebuild it. They also just dealt for McNabb, who if they want to keep alive, will need some Trojan type protection. Williams also fits their scheme perfectly. I think they go with the "safe" pick here. (VC)
5. Browns - Trade with Chiefs - Eric Berry, S, Tennessee
- In my opinion, the surest thing in this draft. Which means the Browns will draft him, and he will somehow end up sucking. I don't know what the Browns have to trade to move up to draft him, but they should do it. Any player that plays without gloves just looks cool. And when you get compared to Ed Reed I think I want you on my team. (SV)
6. Seattle - Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State
- There is a good chance the Seahawks might trade this pick. If they do, well I'm f'd with this selection so this blurb won't matter. But if they don't, they need to take the best Tackle available, and that's our boy Okung here. Sidenote, if the Skins take Okung, then plug in Trent Williams here instead. Basically if the Seahawks don't trade, look for a big OLineman to be taken here. I don't think the Seahawk fans will be too thrilled with this pick, but look for Matt Hasselbeck to go out and celebrate by purchasing a 3 month's supply of Rogaine tonight! (VC)
7. Chiefs - From trade with Browns - Bryan Bulaga, OT, Iowa
- They say this is one of the surest OT prospects in the draft. I dunno, I remember Brandon Graham kind of owning him last year when they linked up. But Pioli will want to sure up that pathetic line. I'm giddy thinking about the Weis/Crennel era. Who is the coach of this team? I have no clue. (SV)
8. Raiders - C.J. Spiller
- Every year the Raiders leave you scratching your head and saying WTF after their first pick...so I thought to myself, why should this year be any different? Even though they have Run DMC, and this pick would make no sense, they will somehow end up taking C.J. Spiller. Al Davis aka the guy from Saw, has lost his mind, and he probably thinks that Spiller and DMC will be a devastating combo, and that pairing them up will be SOOO TIGHT! There is also a chance that the Raiders might make a move for Big Ben (probably a 3 way...like Big Ben wanted), so whoever drafts here might take Spiller as well. Even though this is a weak RB class, Spiller is still the best RB in this Draft. (VC)
9. Bills - Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee
- Boring name. Boring forgettable pick. Every year there are a couple of picks in the first round of players I've never heard of. This is one of them. And I literally watched every college football game last season. Either I'm not as smart as I think I am (doubtful) or this guy will bust. With the Bills luck, I'm thinking he'll be a bust. The Bills definitely need to trade up to draft Sam Bradford. Come on, he needs to lead the BUFFALO BILLS! (SV)
10. Jaguars - Jimmy Claussen, QB, ND
- This is another random/rowdy pick, but every year the Jags are rumored to be looking for a new QB, so I said F it. I see them going for one here with Jimmy boy still on the board. When else will the Jags get a chance to get the second best QB on the board, or top rated according to Classen's lover Mel Kiper. They can probably use Jason PP, but I think they have given up on Garrard...(VC)
11. Broncos - Maurkice Pouncey, C, Florida
- My leader, Vik, says I am an idiot for not putting Dez Bryant in this spot. But if Canton, Ohio's finest, Josh McDaniels, shipped one extremely talented drama queen out of town for a cheese sandwich, why would he waste his first round pick on another extremely talented drama queen. The Bills have a need at center, and this McDaniels literally does whatever he wants. What he doesn't realize yet is that Brady Quinn will never be good no matter what kind of protection you get him. (SV)
12. Dolphins - Jason Pierre- Paul, DE, South Florida
- This pick will probably come down to Morgan or PP, but I see the Fins taking Jason PP here because of his "upside". They need to solidify their DLine, so I don't think you can go wrong with either Morgan or PP here. The Fins will take him and then pray that this kid turns into another Jason Taylor. Hopefully for their sake, he doesn't turn into another Mike Haynes! DA BEARS! (VC)
13. 49ers - Joe Haden, CB, Florida
- If Haden slips this far the Niners will be ecstatic. I think they might make the move for Earl Thomas too. Some kind of secondary help. The Niners are like a player or 2 away from breaking through. Gotta love Mike Singletary. (SV)
14. Seattle - Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State
- Have you guys seen the Seahawk WR core? If you thought the Bears had it bad, check out the Hawks WRS. It's like OLD and OLDER, SLOW and SLOWER. Earlier, the Hawks tried to trade for Brandon Marhsall, but came up short. They will take Bryant here instead and again Matt H will go out and buy more Rogaine to celebrate! Rogaine Power! And before you Rogaine users start bashing me for bashing you, just know that I use Rogaine too. ROGAINE ROCKS! (VC)
15. Giants - Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama
- The Giants really need a LB and this guy is supposed to be the best LB in this draft. I don't know, this may be extremely racist but the Giants always seem to have really dark skinned African-Americans on defense...and this guy, from what I remember, is one of the blacker ones there is. So in my mind, this is a perfect fit. (SV)
16. Titans - Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech
-The Titans lost KVB in the off season, but have no fear, Derrick Morgan is here. Pass Rush is a huge need for the Titans, and they will take either Derrick Morgan or Jason PP here for sure. The Titans want to beat you by running the ball and playing defense, so this works outw well for them. Hopefully this move by the Titans turns out to be better than their namesake movie...CLASH OF THE TITANS! Terrible in 3D...(VC)
17. 49ers - Mike Iupati, G, Idaho
- Seems like a Singletary type of player. Tough, mawler, ugly. Uhhhhh. (SV)
18. Steelers - Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise State
- Will Rapisburger get traded? That is the biggest question probably in this whole Draft tonight. GWS! If he doesn't, and this whole Big Ben is on the block thing is just a scare tactic the Steelers are using on Big Ben, look for the Steelers to go with what they are known for...DEFENSE. I don't know if Wilson drops this much, but if he does, Wilson is a nasty corner, the Steelers love defense, and they need a corner! That is a perfect scenerio for the Steelers. Perfect like Big Ben in a college bar, getting college girls drunk, and taking them to the bathroom while having his body guards fend off the girls friends! As my friend Cohin likes to say - BIG BEN FOO, U DUNNO! (VC)
19. Falcons - Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan
- Great sleeper pick here. Brandon Graham was the only player worth a shit on Dick Rod's defense last year. He's an absolute beast. The Falcons should bounce back nicely too. Good candidate for ROY. (SV)
20. Texans - Earl Thomas, S, Texas
- This is how it always plays out...the Texans will have a nasty offense, I will hang on Schaub and AJ in fantasy football and in Madden, I will then predict that the Texans are so close and that they will make the playoffs, and then every year the Texans won't make the playoffs. Same story, every year. But have no fear Texans fans, because this is your year! You will get a sick Safety in Earl Thomas. Think a Brian Dawkins type baller. Put him together with Super Mario and Ryans, and you hae a fearsome threesome on D that won't let you down next year! So like I say every year, Texans all the way. Schaub foo! (VC)
21. Bengals - Taylor Mays, S, USC
- How is Marvin Lewis still the coach here? I don't know. Anyways, just seems like a Marvin Lewis type of player. And it seems like they go with a USC player every year: Carson, Rivers, Maualuga...and this guy fits in that mold of just being a beast. I don't know if he'll ever be a good NFL player, but he is probably the biggest physical freak in the draft. Plus, I have no idea if this is a nice guy or not but he just seems like he could be a criminal. (SV)
22. Patriots - Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma
- Have the Pats had a sick TE since Ben Coates? Does anyone else even remember Ben Coates, or am I just that f'ing old? I know Brady makes every look good, but he needs some help and someone to open up the middle of the field. The only thing Alge Crumpler is opening up, is a bag of chips. Alge Crumper is mad fat. He seriously looks like a OLineman now, have you guys seen him lately? Crumpler can block, Gresham can catch. The Hoody monster will secretly fist pump if this happens...(VC)
23. Packers - Bruce Campbell, OT, Maryland
- The Pack need help on the O-line and I believe this guy had the best combine numbers of any tackle. They will probably go with a surer bet, but screw it...swing for the fences. If Aaron Rodgers put up those numbers behind a shitty line, imagine what he will do with a decent one. (SV)
24. Eagles - Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama
- If there is no safety on board, I see the Eagles taking the best player available. Here they would get a nice value pick in Jackson. Jackson is a big, physical CB, who coupled with Asante can cause a lot of havoc. Sidenote...will Philly fans ever be happy? You had a guy in McNabb that took you to a SuperBowl, multiple division titles and NFC Chip games, yet you always hated on him and traded him. That truly is SAD FOO! I hope McNabb lights up the Eagles next year! (VC)
25. Ravens - Jared Odrick, DE, Penn State
- Seems like an Ozzie Newsome type player. Versatile in that he can play in the 4-3 or 3-4. And just seems like a mean dude. (SV)
26. Cardinals - Charles Brown, OT, USC
-I wouldn't be surprised of the Cardinals took a QB here. Have you guys seen Leinart play? He came vs the Bears last year when the Cards were whooping us, and he somehow managed to let the Bears come back and make it a ball game again. The look on Kurt Warner's face in that game was priceless when the Coach told him he had to warm up and go back into the game again. Anyways, if they don't take a QB or trade for one, look for them to try to sure up their line. Maybe if Matty can get some good protection and sit back there for a while, he will actually be able to pass the ball where he is supposed too. My personal prediction...Matty gets cut after next year. (VC)
27. Cowboys - Anthony Davis, OT, Rutgers
- The Cowboys like big, beefy lineman. This guy is pretty big. Thats about all I got. Another possiblity is Everson Griffin from USC. He might be in the Demarcus Ware mold. The Cowboys line is getting pretty old though, so I think they'll go o-line here. (SV)
28. Chargers - Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno State
- With LT gone, the Chargers need another strong back to take his place. Mathews fills that role here, so I say the Chargers go with him. I don't know what else to tell you other than if you get a chance to visit San Diego, make sure you go to Pac Beach, Stingaree, and Ivy...Thank me later...(VC)
29. Jets - Nate Allen, S, South Florida
- If Taylor Mays drops here, I think they'd take him. Basically we have to watch Hard Knocks this year because this is about the biggest, most brash team there is and ever was. I'm giddy. Safety is like the only weakness on the team. Its ridiculous. (SV)
30. Vikings - Tim Tebow, QB, Florida
- My main man Tim sneaks into the first round! For real though, unless you are a SEC fan whose team is not named FLORIDA, how can you hate on Tim T as a person. God's son is the man, on and off the field (nh). It's just his destiny to go in the first round, and to end up in a good spot. The Vikings fit that bill because he will get to learn from Favre, and he will probably get a chance to start in a year when Favre retires for the 10th time and when Tavaris Jackson throws 11 straight picks. TIM T FOR PRESIDENT!!! (VC)
31. Colts - Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU
- The Colts have gone offense like 10 straight years in the first round, literally. But I think they finally go defense here, becaue what else do they need. They are set at receiver if Gonzalez comes back. I don't think they'll go line. Who knows man. This guy is good though, and I Polian knows talent. (SV)
32. Saints - Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri
- The Saints need a nice LB, Weatherspoon is a nice LB. That is all. On another side note...Good luck with the Saints Alex Brown. Good player, great person...(VC)
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 22
Pat Tillman was killed 6 years ago today by friendly fire in Afghanistan while serving under the U.S. Army Rangers.
Happy Birthday to football players...
Ken Dorsey, who turns 29 today
Kaká, who turns 28.
Matt Jones, who turns 27
Marshawn Lynch, who turns 24. BEAST MODE!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
DRAKE OVER - JORDAN VIDEO
Sick songs, and you got to love the Jordan/ Rocky clips...
thanks for the video Sunny
CHARLES BARKLEY CALLS ERNIE/KENNY ASSHOLES ON THE AIR
Haha, this is hilarious...
TODAY IN SPORTS...
APRIL 21
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO...
Tony Romo, who turns 30 years old today.
Former Chicago Blackhawk, Ed Belfour, who turns 45 years old today.
Click Here to Read More..
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
MARK'S KADDY KORNER - OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE CHAMPIONSHIP
I was definitely looking forward to the week in Lutz, FL and the Outback Steakhouse Championship. There have been a lot of good memories here over the years, a win with Doug Tewell, a couple of seconds with Murph, and a lot of fun and relaxation at my buddy Bill’s Lake Como cabin. After coming here for over twenty years I almost feel like a local, Tom Wargo and I have a couple of little haunts we visit, and the next door neighbor, Chuck, seems like a relative.The golf is also special. The TPC at Tampa Bay designed by Bobby Weed and Chi Chi Rodriquez is probably the most challenging course on tour and the crowds turn out for the celebrity pro-am format. Our first year here, 1993, Murph played with a local restaurant owner, Chris Sullivan, who mentioned he was thinking about taking his company public and franchising the chain. We let it go in one ear and out the other and today Outback makes a pretty good chunk of change, plus runs this tournament drawing big name celebrities, George Lopez, Michael J. Fox, Tiki Barber, Emmitt Smith, among others.Jim was excited about playing. His son goes to school in Tampa so he came down early played the course a few times and worked with his instructor, Mike Christie, a crusty old teaching pro right of a Dan Jenkins novel. We worked with Jim on the range Saturday; he expresses his technical knowledge very bluntly, and makes a point to let you know it’s not all mechanical most of this game is mental.The pro-am format gave us a lot of practice time because we weren’t in the Wednesday and Thursday events. Maybe we over practiced but I don’t think so. When I met Jim Monday and after the practice round Tuesday he was swinging the best I’d seen all year. We talked about relaxing, letting things happen during the round and not try to force anything. Our late tee time Friday gave us time to rest up, maybe we had too much time. We play in foursomes, two pros with their amateur partners, and we were paired with Wayne Levi, a long time friend of Jim’s. We were looking forward to a fun day until Wayne’s partner teed it up. After the seventeenth waggle over the ball I turned away and started walking down the fairway. We nicknamed him Sergio and the tour officials warned us continually about pace of play but it never sunk in and he waggled us to death.Sometimes little things are a distraction and this definitely caused some issues. Friday we were cruising, birdied the first hole and coming into fifteen we were one under for the day. One bad swing cost us a double and we finished with a 73. Jim is tough S.O.B and never gives up, there is absolutely no quit in him and it’s going to serve him well. We struggled a bit Saturday but he hung in there and we survived a roller coaster round. He got it up and down from everywhere, made a punch of par saving putts but the birdies were hard to come by. We both knew Sunday would be our low round.The forecast called for rain late in the day. Wrong! It started sprinkling before our 8 o’clock tee time, poured on us until they suspended play and we headed for the clubhouse five over through five holes. Players and family head for the clubhouse, exquisite buffet, warmth, flat screen TVs, and soft couches; we get the cart barn with slick, wet floors and no accoutrements. We do have some fun though.Rain delays are perfect for story-telling, jokes, sports trivia competition, and a lot of friendly, sometimes not so gentle ribbing. After all the clubs are dried and rain gear hung on the cart we scavenge for our own little spot for a nap or if we’re lucky find a bite to eat. After the necessities are taken care of that’s when the fun begins. Sunday’s fun was a caddy fashion show with many of us strutting our stuff in different stages of rain gear. It’s amazing what caddies wear underneath a rain suit. Panty hose, long wool socks, T-shirts from a variety of universities, and wind vests pulled below the waist with a birthday suit below. I believe there are pictures of that one floating around YouTube.They cancelled the tournament around 1:30 declaring Langer the winner and the rain probably saved us a few thousand dollars. It’s mass confusion when a tournament is cancelled. I packed Jim’s bag escorted him to the car and we settled up for the week making arrangements for Biloxi in two weeks. I was gone all of fifteen minutes and when I returned my rain suit, yardage book, hat, balls, and wind vest were no longer hanging on the cart. The cart barn attendants blamed the caddies, a volunteer mentioned he saw a cart barn worker removing the gear, no matter my gear was gone and I had no keys for my rental car. Long story short with the assistance of AAA, my buddy Todd, a local tow truck attendant, and Ferman Nissan I was back on the road Monday afternoon. What a hassle, it’s a shame a great tournament had to end with such bad memories. This week I’m back with my old boss, Doug Tewell, at the Legends in Savannah. Murphy’s Law will not be in effect this week. 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...
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 20th
24 years ago today, Michael Jordan set the NBA Playoff record with 63 points vs the Boston Celtics in Game 2 of the 1st round of the NBA Playoffss.
14 years ago, Jordan, Pippen, Rodman, and Kukoc led the Chicago Bulls to an NBA record 72 regular season wins.
Part 1 of the NBA TV special
Part 2
Part 3
Happy 49th Birthday to the New York Yankee great, Don "The Hit Man" Mattingly
Monday, April 19, 2010
Sunday, April 18, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 19
19 years ago today, Evander Holyfield stretched his undefeated record to 26-0 by defeating George Foreman in 12 rounds. Foreman dropped to 69-3
Happy Birthday to...
Troy Polamalu, turns 29 today. Check out his crazy foot workout.
Joe Mauer, turns 27 today
Candace Parker, turns 24 today
Maria Sharapova, turns 23 today
Friday, April 16, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 16th
1980 - Arthur Ashe retired from professional tennis 30 years ago today.
1987 - 23 years ago, Michael Jordon became the 2nd NBA player to score 3,000 points in a season. He played in all 82 games and averaged 37.1 ppg.
Happy Birthday to...
Boris Diaw, turns 28 yrs old today.
Luol Deng, turns 25 yrs old today. His bday present is to guard LeBron James in the 1st round of the playoffs. Good Luck Luol!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 15th
REMINDER: Don't forget to finish up your taxes tonight.
1997 - Jackie Robinson's #42 jersey was retired by Major League Baseball thirteen years ago. No future player on any MLB team can wear it. The number was retired in ceremonies at Shea Stadium to mark the 50th anniversary of Robinson's first game with the Dodgers. The Yankees' Mariano Rivera is the last remaining player in MLB to wear #42 today.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO...
Milton Bradley, turns 32 today. It's been less than 3 years ago since he tore his ACL arguing with a 1st base umpire.
John Danks, turns 25.
CHICAGO BULLS MAKE THE PLAYOFFS
Congrats to DROSE, JOAKIM, and co. for making the playoffs this year! Even with all the injuries they went through, their flawed and short roster that GARPAXDORF put together, and with VDN at the helm, they still managed to get into the playoffs.
This year's playoff experience will be great for Rose and Noah's growth, just like it was for them last year. The Bulls getting in also means the Raptors got knocked out, which pretty much wraps up the Bosh era in Toronto. It will be interesting to see if Bosh ends up in NYC, MIAMI, or Chicago next year. GWS!
Anyways, I can't wait to see the Bulls go up vs King James and his minions starting this Saturday. Like Joakim says in this video, we're going to shock the world!!!
LET'S GO BULLS!!!
Click Here to Read More..
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
HERE COME THE HAWKS - PLAYOFFS - by Vish P
Here come the Hawks! Coming off a strong performance in April, they look playoff ready. 5 wins and 1 overtime loss gives them good momentum going into the playoffs. Some are saying their defense is weak, but I think their chances are still strong. I know the goal tending isn't perfect, but I like what I am seeing from Niemi. He's not perfect, but has definitely improved towards the end of the season, which is what the team needed.
So what is going to carry this team through the playoffs? Experience. You have a young group of players who went deep into the playoffs last year, which will prove invaluable throughout the playoffs. They also have a strong offense that scores and holds the puck. This translates to less shots by the opponent, and takes pressure off Niemi. As long as he makes some good saves, the offense can carry him.
It's going to be a fun playoffs this year. The Madhouse on Madison is going to be crazy. Support your Hawks. Here's an old video I found in tribute to the old Blackhawks of past.
TODAY IN SPORTS...
April 14th
1925 - The Chicago Cubs beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-2 on opening day 85 years ago, which happened to be the very first regular season Cubs game to be broadcasted on WGN radio.
1968 - The very first NBA game at Madison Square Garden. The New York Knicks beat the San Diego Clippers.
Happy Birthday to...
Pete Rose, who turns 69 today.
Greg Maddux and David Justice both turn 44 today. Steve Avery turns 40.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
NBA POWER RANKINGS
Word up playaz, we're back! In this week's power rankings, the Magic are at the top over the Cavs. Amar (of Cavalier Attitude fame) and myself (Docksquad) are doing this week's rankings, so here they are...
Tip-Off:
1. (2) Orlando Magic (58-23)
- I know Amar is going to cry that the Cavs are not ranked 1 this week, but it’s not my fault that Lebron is sitting out games and the Cavs have been losing without him. Anyways, the Magic have been the League’s best team since the All-Star break. Also, the Magic’s win on Sunday gave them a 1 game lead on the Lakers for home court advantage, if they were to meet in the Finals. I’m looking forward to the Cavs Magic showdown in the ECF. Man I can’t wait for the playoffs to start. (VC)
- First of all, I have no idea why these guys are ranked #2. I mean yeah sorry that they benched LeBron for like four games because they had the best record clinched with over a week left to play. Let's penalize them for being the only team in the whole damn league to win 60 games. Makes a lot of sense. Oh and how about almost beating a healthy and motivated Orlando team despite LeBron and Shaq just chatting it up on the bench in street clothes? (AP)
3. (3) Los Angeles Lakers (56-24)
- Plain and simple, the Lakers have not looked good over the past month. Now I don’t know if this is Phil’s master plan of playing possum and then coming out raw in the playoffs, but they need to change some things up for sure. I guess for the Lakers, everything starts and ends with Kobe Bryant aka the Black Mamba. Word on the street is that Kobe’s finger has not healed well at all, so it will be interesting to see how he comes out of the gates in the first round. They definitely can not afford a bad series early, because the West is stacked and the Lakers first round opponent is no joke. Kevin Durant and the Thunder will be in town. This will be an exciting first round matchup to watch. (VC)
- Who would have thought that these guys would have a legitimate shot at the #2 seed in the West coming into this season? That's the good news if you're a Suns fan. The bad news is that all the teams in the West from 2-8 are pretty much the same, so it doesn't really matter who you play in the first round as long as you avoid the Lakers. (AP)
5. (5) Utah Jazz (52-28)
- I think it’s sad that not too many people get to see Deron Williams play basketball often. DWill has been amazing this year! Let the haters hate, but to me, he has been the best PG in the NBA this year. The way he runs that Jazz offense, the way he can score, dribble, drop dimes, make his teammates better, and control the tempo of the game is fun to watch. DWill was already good, but this year he has definitely made the leap to great. About the Jazz, there isn’t much to write about other than their usual injuries. Like we have all said a thousand times before, if the Jazz are a 100 percent healthy come playoff time, watch out. If they are not, which is usually the case, they will be bounced early. The old Jazz teams used to play scrappy ball and incredible defense…that’s not the case with this squad. Even with DWill running the show, I don’t think they have enough in the tank to make the Finals this year. (VC)
- Throughout the entire regular season, these guys always look they're just saving an extra gear or two for the playoffs. It's that time of year for them now, and if Manu Ginobili keeps playing anywhere close to how he has been playing for the past month, then nobody wants a piece of these guys in a seven-game series. I promise. (AP)
7. (7) Atlanta Hawks (52-29)
- Let me start off by saying I love watching this Hawks team play. Joe J is sick with it, Horford is solid, JC is still crossing people and scoring buckets, and Josh Smith(or should I say the GAME) has really gotten a lot better this year. But with all that being said, I just don’t see this Hawks team getting out of the second round of the playoffs. They just don’t matchup well vs the Cavs or the Magic. Their defense is another cause for concern. If you look up the stats, they have gotten worse defensively every month! Not where you want to be going into the playoffs if you ask me. (VC)
- Many keep pegging the Mavs as the real team to beat in the West in light of Bynum's injury and the Lakers' sudden vulnerability. Jokes. We said on these same rankings a few weeks ago that the Mavs peaked way too early and we're sticking to that statement. They played their best basketball in late February and early March, which would be a little too early even if this was the NCAA. (AP)
9. (14) OKC Thunder (49-32)
- I wish the Thunder weren’t the 8th seed in this year’s playoffs. At 7 I could see them have a shot of pulling an upset in the first round, but I just don’t see them beating the Lakers. They will definitely be a tough out, but the Lakers are just too tough of a matchup for them to overcome. The Thunder defense is just not getting the job done, especially as of late. I don’t know if they are wearing down, but their D won’t cut it vs. the defending Champs. Anyways, Kevin Durant has been amazing all year long, and I’m really happy for him. Durant is getting better with every game, and has led the Thunder to their first NBA playoffs appearance. At the end of the day, that is all the Thunder and any OKC fan can ask for... (VC)
- "MAR-CUS CAM-BY!" was the thunderous and continuous chant at the Rose Garden on Monday night after the Blazers pulled out a critical win against the Thunder despite devastating news about Brandon Roy's torn meniscus. The Camby Man brought me back to the days of watching UMass shooting to the Final Four back in '96 when I was at the Garden on Monday watching him tear the Thunder apart in person. I felt old fo. (AP)
- The Nuggets finally got KMart back and he looked good (nh). Melo and Billups are going to do their thing in the playoffs, but they will need KMart and Birdman healthy if they want to make a run at the title. They have struggled on the road, which will probably be their downfall come playoff time. GWS...(VC)
- These guys are a complete parody of themselves. LeBron instilled the fear of God in them when he nearly beat Boston by himself a few weeks ago, and the Celtics know that they're way too old to compete with a healthy and motivated LeBron at this point. That's bad news because the Cavs are who the Celtics will face in the second round should they get that far. And they may have to get past D-Wade first. (AP)
- It is looking more and more like the Heat will play the Hawks in the first round of the playoffs. This actually is a good matchup for the Heat, who are 3-1 vs the Hawks this year. I'm just praying that somehow, someway, the Heat get swept in the first round of the playoffs this year. That coupled with a Bulls win over the Cavs in the first round will make DWADE join the Bulls for sure right?!?!? (VC)
- Might have been the story of the year up until that nasty injury to Andrew Bogut. That put any chance of Milwaukee being a serious threat in the postseason right down the tubes. Still, they're an exciting team that has really rejuvenated their city this season, and here's hoping for a speedy recovery for Bogut so that he can come back next year and help Young Money do it again. (AP)
- This has got to go down as a successful season for the Bobcats, as they are finally in the playoffs! On that note, it looks like Coach Brown will be bolting again, just like he usually does after he builds up a squad. On another note, it's really a shame that the Bobcats won't get to face the Cavs in the first round of the playoffs this year, because the Bobcats have owned the Cavs! Now they will lose in the first round vs. the Magic. Sorry playaz. As former DSS writer Rahul likes to say, it's all about MATCHUPS MAN! (VC)
- The Bulls, while being fully motivated to play for their playoff lives, barely fended off a LeBron- and Shaq-less Cavs team at home no less and then lost to the Nets. Yet they still find themselves sitting alone at eighth and moving up a spot in these power rankings. God I hope the Cavs sweep these clowns ruthlessly in the playoffs. Ruthlessly. (AP)
- I need to give the Rockets some props. For this team to finish 2-3 games above .500 without Yao, is pretty raw. It will be interesting to see how this squad plays with Yao next year, that's for sure. Or is it? Will Yao be back? GWS...(VC)
- What an unfortunate way for the Chris Bosh era to come to an end in Toronto after seven years -- seeing Bosh get elbowed in the face by Antawn Jamison and then seeing the Raptors miss the playoffs as a result of Bosh being out for the rest of the regular season. So after spending all year jabbing the Raptors in these rankings, we have to end it by asking you who you think Bosh will play for next season. The Bulls? Heat? Knicks? Thunder, even? We know one thing for sure: it won't be the Raptors. (AP)
- The Grizzlies looked a lot better this year, pretty much better than every year since they made the playoffs last with Pau there. But the organization faces a lot of questions in this off season. The main decision for them will be whether or not they bring back Rudy Gay? I see some other team snatching him up, thus probably destroying all the progress they made this year. Sad fo...(VC)
- A staple at #20 on these rankings for a few weeks now. I'll be really interested to see how this cost-cutting ownership deals with the massive contracts of Emeka Okafor and Chris Paul this summer, especially with how Darren Collison has been playing this year as a rookie. (AP)
- We need to give the Pacers some credit. Instead of tanking like everyone, which includes their own fans, thought they would, they have finished the season strong. They have won 10 out of their last 12 games. But with that being said, the Pacers finished another season under. 500 and will now be entering their fourth straight lottery. Next year is definitely a make or break year for this organization. Will they make the playoffs? I think they are close...(VC)
- They have been playing a little better compared to the rest of the league's dregs. It's not saying much, but I'd be in good spirits as a Warrior fan knowing that Larry Ellison might buy the team soon. And a lottery pick, too. Maybe my boy Evan Turner? (AP)
- The Knicks are worse this year than they were last year?!?! Wow, that is nuts. Their only real hope towards rebuilding is Lebron plus either Bosh or Amare. Even if they nab Joe Johnson and any big, they will still be terrible next year. I kinda miss the days when the Knicks were good and used to make the playoffs. Old school rivals foo! (VC)
- Just a horrid team. The league is healthy when markets and old school franchises like Philly and Boston are doing well. The Sixers need to find this summer looking for an identity. I don't know if it's going to come through the draft or elsewhere, but if the last decade was about Iverson, then Philly needs to start grooming another icon for this decade. (AP)
- Only bright spot for this team is Blatche. But besides him, what the hell do they have for the long term? Will this team ever recover from Gilbert Gate? It's sad to think that just a few years ago they had Agent 0, Butler, Jamison, and were competing in the playoffs...(VC)
- This team looked like it was making significant improvements at the start of the year, but the law of averages eventually settled in and made us realize that the Kings are still SAD FO! At least yall's boy Tyreke is going to win ROY. (AP)
- Clippers fans, all I can say is that I hope Blake Griffin comes back raw for you guys next year. I won't lie, I am excited to see him play in the League next year. (VC)
- Believe it or not, I had a loyal DSS reader and infrequent contributor actually confront me IN PERSON over the weekend pleading me to not put the Nets last in the power rankings this week. While this will be the second straight week we keep the Nets out of the cellar, I hope that this loyal reader whose name is Cohin is happy this week. If only the Nets could follow the example he sets and win chips. Sad fo. (AP)
- Joe Dumars should be fired. He has used up all their cap room and built a team with a bunch of non stars who are all the same player. SAD FO. And could the season get any worse than when the Pistons lost to a Bosh less Raptors...AFTER CV GUARANTEED A WIN! HAHHA SCRUBS. (VC)
- This team sucks and I'm too tired to write anything about them except for the fact that they're SAD FO! (AP)
Kaddy Korner - Masters Week - I'm a Phil fan - by Mark Huber
Hey All,Another week off but a lot going on and I tried to follow the Tiger parade through Augusta as much as possible. The cabin was still intact, Zach chased a few critters from the shed, and when we left on Thursday snow was collecting on the deck. Everywhere I went folks wanted to know my thoughts about Tiger. How would he finish at the Masters? What was going on in his personal life? Would Stevie keep his job? What did you think about the press conference on Monday?I’ve always been in Tiger’s corner, his indiscretions confused and bothered me tremendously, but Tiger has always been my favorite and there wasn’t much time for Phil. This week proved me wrong. For the last four to five months we should have been focusing on Phil’s family struggles, Amy’s battle with cancer, and his supportive efforts. It kept him from playing world class golf but it moved him to number one in my book.The phony has left Phil and family takes precedent over golf, the way it should be. Coming into Augusta there was only one top ten and he was way below the radar but should have made headlines. I apologize for some of the thoughts I’ve held about Phil over the years. Last week I believe my statement was “I’ve forgotten about Phil and so should you.” We never should have taken the Mickelson family from our thoughts and prayers; they deserve much more attention than Mr. Woods.Driving to Florida over the weekend the old van finally collapsed and it screwed up my schedule for watching the Masters. The whole trip was planned with the Masters in mind and sitting along I-57 Saturday afternoon I missed what experts are calling the greatest half hour of golf. Eagle, eagle, birdie from Phil’s bag. Hopefully Amy witnessed the barrage from her Augusta bed because she has been the inspiration this week. Phil has placed his family first, now was his time, and like Jim Nance stated after the last birdie, “a win for the family.” There has been a focus on a family for awhile just the wrong one.Sunday afternoon I found a cheap room in Valdosta, GA just in time to grab a rack of ribs, a cold beverage, and an afternoon of solitude watching the final round. Only my thoughts broke the solitude, embarrassing as they were. All these years I’ve bad mouthed Phil and now I was watching everything that is good about golf, family, and people. Phil and his family have been dealt a difficult hand, bringing nothing on themselves through reprehensible behavior, and like Phil dealt with the bad break on the second green they have handled it with a smile, a nod to the crowd, and moved on to the next challenge. You’ve never heard cursing, there’s always time for autographs, and Phil always has time for charitable contributions as like most PGA players, he just likes to tell you about it a bit more. Phil’s tour friendships and admirers have grown the last few years, the FIGJAM moniker is melting, and he’s shedding that forced “look at me I’m a nice guy persona” he portrays to the galleries. It seems to be all natural these days, really, I’ve become a Phil fan. His moment in the trees on thirteen Sunday was exciting for this caddy. I was screaming at the TV hoping “Bones” would talk some sense into him. Phil would have none of it, faced the challenge head on and hit the shot of his life, though he may have pulled it a touch. There was a subtle fist pump and when he missed the four-foot eagle putt there was a little disgust but he went about his business. Tom Watson would have been proud of the behavior maybe not the decision to go for broke.Phil has won me over. The man, the golfer, and the person are what golf needs these days. Hopefully all goes well at home and Phil is able to play his best competitive golf for awhile. He and his family deserve a few more Majors.
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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