Showcase Showdown

Seasonal Sports Superiority

by Sports Eye View

Photo Cred www.sportslocal.org

For the love of every sport, we, the writers of Sports Eye View, would like to entertain you, our readers, with one of the broadest Showcase Showdowns we can come up with. After the NBA and NHL playoffs finished a couple weeks ago, the sports world has slowed down quite a bit with baseball chugging along in the middle of it's season and not much else going on. A few Tennis fans out there are closely watching to see if Andy Murray can snatch his second straight Wimbledon title and even fewer NASCAR fans are out there awaiting with great anticipation the Chase for the Sprint Cup Series. We would like to fill this gap by trying to determine which season of sports is the best. Spring boasts the completion of the NHL and NBA playoffs and March Madness while Summer brags about it's always exciting MLB season and all star game, NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup as well as the occasional Olympics. Fall brings us the start of the NFL season, College Football and MLB playoffs and Winter shows of the ever exciting ending to the NFL season along with playoffs and of course, the BCS Bowls and the occasional Olympics. So which season is better? Let's see what the writers of Sports Eye View think.

Photo Cred www.cbslocal.com

Eric - I will begin by saying that the Spring by far offers the greatest sporting events of the year. It is so obvious that I could just leave it at that, but just for your entertainment (and for the very few who don't already know this), I will explain further. Let's start from the beginning. College Basketball season is coming to a close around the end of March. You all know what this means! March Madness!! Possibly the greatest tournament of all time kicks off Spring and lasts almost an entire month. Does it get much better than that? Well yes, it does. Not only is March Madness going on, but the NBA and NHL playoff races are tightening up and the MLB season is starting. It's almost too much goodness in such a short period of time. And then, if you thought it definitely could not get better, the NBA and NHL playoffs start and finish right at the end of Spring. If you need any more explanation as to why Spring is the best season for sports, you are out of your mind.

Photo Cred www.betinternet.com

Ryan - Let me start off my promotion of the Winter Sports season by telling you a story.  When I was 10 years old, I had a crush.  On who, you might ask?  Tara Lipinski.  I, along with the entire world population, watched as the 15 year old Golden Girl took down the best in Michelle Kwan and brought USA home the gold medal.  It was a good day.  Other memorable Winter Sport memories? Anyone remember the Miracle on Ice? Yeah, the one where the scrub Americans beat the domineering Russians in the 1980 Olympic Gold Medal Match.  They made a movie out of that one.  What about that Jamaican Bobsled team?  Yup, made a movie out of that one too.  Please, if you haven't watched Cool Runnings, do.  I can go on and on...The Immaculate Reception...The Catch...every Daytona 500 and Super Bowl ever played...The Ice Bowl....The Blackout Bowl.  I feel like I got the easy task with this Showdown.  I'll go into more details once I see what the other guys have to offer.

Photo Cred www.mlb.com

Ben- Close your eyes and just imagine for a minute. You’re sitting outside on the porch; warm coffee in hand, a fleece jacket wrapped around your shoulders.  A nice, crisp breeze blows over the lawn and rustles those leaves that are shedding their green hue to the grandiose orange, reds, and yellows the fall delivers. A bonfire in the distance is tingling your nose, reminding you of your youth.  At this point all of your senses are engaged- except the sense of excitement. You walk inside, turn on the TV and gear up for the greatest sports season of all- FALL. “So Ben, why is it the best?” The NFL season is throwing off its rust, the NBA is jumping into form, and the English Premier League is kicking into gear  (Yes, I'm not above punning my way though an article). Oh, and in case you forgot, a little thing called PLAYOFF BASEBALL is in full swing. Playoff baseball is straight up magic. Even casual fans start to get batty with the constant excitement of a 7 game series (I’m done, I swear). Still not enough for you? Just head into town to watch young, talented high school kids, with aspiring dreams of stardom, put it on the field every Friday night under the lights. Simply put, fall is awesome. 

Photo Cred www.uwishunu.com

Caleb - There is one event in the sporting world that captures the hearts and minds of the entire globe. One two week stretch in the heat of August that causes even the shallowest of sports fans to skip class, work and even their wedding to find the closest television set. Without further adieu....The Summer Olympics. While I believe that March Madness is the best sporting event in the United States, The Summer Olympics is without a doubt the most amazing event in the wide world of sports that spans far beyond the borders of MERICA. The London 2012 Olympics broke the record for the most watched event in television history. While Americans and small populations in the rest of the world are glued to the NBA and MLB finals, every eye and ear in the world unites within each country to cheer their team on in each individual event. The national pride that is sprouted from just one gold medal for a small country truly shows the beauty and brilliance that athletics can bring to our world. I have many more reasons why the Summer seasons reigns supreme, but starting with the top seems most appropriate. The Summer Olympics makes the season of Summer simply scintillating.

Photo Cred www.keepingscore.blogs.com

Eric - To snuff out the Summer sports season first, you brought up the event that takes place every 4 years. Sure it's fantastic when it is happening, but it is 2 weeks every 4 years. That is hardly as good as something that happens year in and year out. Fall is good because of the NFL getting started but everyone knows the end of the season and playoffs are the best part of the NFL season. Playoff Baseball is the only great thing the Fall has going for it. Premier League soccer is just a blip on the radar in America. NASCAR is probably more watched than the Premier League. If we all lived in England, the Fall would be kicking butt entirely due to Premier League soccer but we all live in America. The Winter does have some good sports as well but once again, the Winter Olympics only happen once every 4 years. The NFL playoffs are awesome and definitely the highlight of the Winter but that is about it. So in summary, the Summer has one great event every 4 years, the Fall has MLB playoffs and the Winter has NFL playoffs. Compare that to the Spring having March Madness which happens every year, NBA playoffs which happen every year, NHL playoffs which happen every year and the start of Baseball, which is always extremely exciting, and you have yourselves a clear winning. Prove me wrong!

Photo Cred www.reuters.com

Ryan - Eric, I beg to differ.  When it comes down to it, there are only two seasons in the running for this title, that being the Summer and Winter due to the presence of the Olympics.  These games are so amazing that they can only have them once every four years!  You are also not putting nearly enough stock in the start of the NFL season in the Fall.  If you're honest with yourself, you know, just like the rest of us, that the NFL is by far the greatest and most popular sport in America by leaps and bounds.  Nothing comes close.  Sorry man, the Spring is that lapse in the year when you're just waiting for the Summer months to come.  So, why does Winter beat the Summer? Each have the Olympics, which gives them an EVEN upper hand over the Fall and Spring.  Unfortunately for the Summer, there isn't much else than that besides Training Camps and Preseason.  Winter has the exciting end to the NFL regular season, the spine tingling playoffs and the one event that breaks all of the TV records every single year, the SUPER BOWL!!!!  Again, I got the easy task.  Oh, and I forgot to mention earlier; the BCS Championship Series!  Easily one of the Top 5 single sporting events of the year.  The Winter season captures those who love professional sports, college sports, and once every four years even throws something in there that the entire world can tune into.  Seriously, need Ben and Caleb even take a stab?

Photo Cred www.gambling911.com

Caleb - Ryan beat me to the punch about the Olympics. I would rather have the greatest sporting venture of all time once every 4 years than the normal American sports championships every single year. The simple fact that it happens once every 4 years makes it that much better and bolsters the summer season's resume. Also, are we really making the argument that the summer Olympics are the only event happening in the summer? Did we forget that 3 of 4 golf major championships occur in the summer? Now I know some of you will bash golf for being boring, but have you ever watched the U.S. Open? Have you ever been glued to the television for 5 straight hours on a Sunday? The U.S. Open, the British Open and the PGA Championship all occur in the summer and carry a unique change of pace from the normal big 4. Also, summer holds Wimbledon and the U.S. Open in the tennis world which carry the same glorified weight as the golf majors. Summer holds the unique and brilliant sporting events that the rest of the seasons just don't have. Also, which of you can deny checking your phone or internet each and every night to get text updates from the Phillies, Pirates or Orioles? We may not be at the beginning or the end of the MLB season, but I would argue that the middle of the season is much better than the beginning. Divisional races are taking shape, new stars are being born and surprise stories are always popping up. For any true baseball fan, the summer months are the best time of year. I see your individual points and I believe we all have strong cases because sports are amazing all year round, but there is simply nothing better than listening to the baseball game on the radio on a summer night, waking up early to watch Tiger struggle in the British Open, or wearing your USA colors and screaming and shouting about synchronized swimming. Bummer for the rest for only one reason, summer is the best, the best of the seasons.

Photo Cred www.rampagedreality.com

Ben - Sure, the Olympics are fantastic, that's impossible to argue against. But while you're talking about 2 weeks, everyone else is thinking big picture: consistently the best at round house kicking you in the face for 3 whole months season. It just so happens to be fall. I mean who doesn't love variety; that's what Fall is about. THREE types of football (HS/College/Pro), soccer leagues across the whole world (not giving up on soccer Eric!), Hockey, Basketball, and playoff baseball (And Baseball is the most "American" sport there is, shouldn't that just be the end of the argument? Could be, Wont be). The fall is set up for sporting events every night of the week. The amount of quality sporting action available is just wild- like riding an eagle through the mists of Valhalla during a full moon. Doesn't get much better than that!

Alright everyone, now it's your turn.  There is no way to settle this for good without having your input on the matter.  How do you help?

1. Post in the comment section of this story.
2. Vote on the poll along the right side of the blog.

Help us out, which sporting season is the best overall?!!

And the Foul

The NBA Draft Recap

By Ben Makin

Well, It's been a while, funny how life doesn't let you catch up on things. Since my last article I graduated, got a job, moved to Pittsburgh, and no one really cares except my Mom (THANKS MA!). All in all, I’m doing better than Aaron Hernandez. I have been watching a good amount of NBA, and thought to myself, “HEY, other people should listen to me again,” so now I’m writing my draft recap. I plan on going through the first round, pick by pick and I’ll try not to get too sidetracked, no promises. Let’s get it on.

PART 1

David Sterns Last Draft- I think it should be noted that this was the Stern Dogs last draft. It was a cool thing to see that even after all the Boo's, Stern was Stern. I dont really agree with a lot of things he did, but He was still good at being the Comish, and he actually had the best quote of the night.

Rd. 1 Pick 1: Cleveland Cavaliers- Anthony Bennett, SF, UNLV: Easily the biggest surprise of the draft. Projected to go 8^th to the Pistons, the Cavs once again tried to “outsmart the draft." Don't get me wrong, Bennett is good, but at number one overall it was a reach. Because of the layout of the draft and it being deep, not strong, it was hard for anyone to take a chance and reach out to Cleveland and take their pick. I think Bennett will be a solid role player for the Cavaliers, a little less than what you really want from a #1 pick. He is very athletic, and when you watch his highlight tape you see the power he can bring down low. Also, his touch from range will fit in nice with the trending “stretch 4” mentality of the league (because teams are playing small ball, they want an athletic 4 who can get out of the paint and stretch teams defensively). If he can find a good work ethic and lose the baby weight, we could see a great starting five for the Cavs in a year or two.  Grade: C+

Photo Cred Bleacher Report

Rd. 1 Pick 2: Orlando Magic- Victor Oladipo, SG, Indiana: Solid pick for the Magic. It fills a need (athletic, can play great D, shoots the ball well). There are rumors that he may actually be the starting point guard come the start of the season, which would be great for his “fantasy stock”. He’s a guy who is going to put it all on the floor every night, great for a Magic team that can go through the motions at times. I don't think he’ll make any all-star teams in the near future, but don't be surprised to see Oladipo show up on the All-Defensive teams, he has a real future being a shut down player. Since I wrote this part of the article (about an hour ago) I've gotten three times as pumped to watch him. Grade: A- 



Photo Cred: Huffington Post



Rd. 1 Pick 3: Washington Wizards- Otto Porter Jr., SF, Georgetown: High first round picks coming out of Georgetown usually workout (Greg Monroe, Roy Hibbert, Jeff Green, Allen Iverson, Alonzo Mourning, Dikembe Mutombo, Patrick Ewing just to name a few). I though Porter Jr. would go to the Cavs; I know they don't need a scorer, but the small forward for them is a weak spot. I think he will be one of the bright spots of the draft. He is going to a Wizards franchise that has had some turmoil, but I think they are slowly finding a place in the league. John Wall will be happy to have this great defender and mid range shooter to rely on. Look out for the Wizards to make a run towards the playoffs this year; their starting five is sneaky good. Grade: A

Photo Cred: Sportswithballsshow.com

Rd. 1 Pick 4: Charlotte Bobcats- Cody Zeller, PF, Indiana: They suck, any addition will help them, but I thought they would go more athletic and take Noel. I can see why they didn't because they need immediate help, and Noel is a year out with his ACL injury. Zeller was thought to be the #1 overall consensus just a year ago, so he definitely is not a bum. I see him starting early on in the season on a weak Bobcats roster; don't sleep on Zeller, He’ll be the next Varejao. Grade: C 

*Side note! I didn't know if I should put it in the Georgetown section or not, but Patrick (Ch)Ewing will be the new head coach of the Bobcats. What do they have to lose here? They already suck so why not bring on a new coach and see if he can somehow right the ship. 

Rd. 1 Pick 5: Phoenix Suns- Alex Len, C, Maryland: I Think Alex Len will be a solid NBA player. Similar to a Brooke Lopez. Great personality, good work ethic, travels with his mom. #suns. I tweeted this earlier in the week and am sticking by it. He is a little young, but if he can develop I think he will be a solid starter in the NBA. Grade: B

Photo Cred: ESPN

Rd. 1 Pick 6: New Orleans Pelicans (TRADED TO: Philadelphia 76ers for Jrue Holliday)- Nerlens Noel, C, Kentucky: Great pick for the Pelicans (I love saying Pelicans, I think I’m buying a hat). They knew they weren’t going to keep him, but he has #1 overall talent. Personally I really don't think Noel will pan out in the NBA, he is so high on everyone’s list because of his shot blocking, but he miserable on the offensive end. I can see why Philly traded for him- Jrue has hit his ceiling (he’ll never take it to the next level like a CP3) and Bynum most likely will opt out of Philly. They can now rebuild around a guy with “potential” superstar ability (still don't see it, and am not talking myself into it). Grade: A 

BONUS: If they tank this year (and they will with Noel out and a rookie PG in Carter-Williams), they could be in position to claim the prize of next year’s draft- Andrew Wiggans: a straight up stud freshman at Kansas.

Speed Round- go.

Rd. 1 Pick 7: Sacramento Kings- Ben McLemore, SG, Kansas: Great athleticism, decent shot, needs a year or two and could emerge as a Paul George like character. Perfect fit in Sac. Grade: B+

Rd. 1 Pick 8: Detroit Pistons- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, SG, Georgia: Could be the best shooter in the draft, the word deadly comes to mind. Needs to work on midrange, but reminds me of a Ray Allen type. Good value at 8. Grade: C

Rd. 1 Pick 9: Minnesota Timberwolves (TRADED TO THE UTAH JAZZ for SHABAZZ MOHAMED)- Trey Burke, PG, Michigan: I love Trey Burke. He was the best player in the NCAA tournament, even in the games he disappeared. This is a great pickup for the Jazz who could have the next Chris Paul in their locker room.

Photo Cred: maizenbrew.com

He can dime with the best of them, and isn’t afraid of taking the big shot. Big things coming for this  Jazzy Wolverine (you know something had to be super corny in my article!). Grade: A- 

Rd. 1 Pick 10: Portland Trailblazers- CJ McCollum, PG, LeHigh: I was confused with this pick at first, but the more I see it, the more I like it. Great shooter/scorer, and if they get a second Lillard like player, they’ll have the best young backcourt in the league. Either can play point or the 2. Should really workout in Portland who need some depth. Grade: C+

Rd. 1 Pick 11: Philadelphia 76ers- Michael Carter-Williams, PG, Syracuse: I saw him play live against Pitt this year and wasn't that impressed. He is huge, but is lacking something and I can’t figure it out yet. He’ll be solid, has size, but never better than a role player (which might be what the 6ers need).  Grade: D+

Photo Cred: Celticslife.com

Rd. 1 Pick 12: Oklahoma City Thunder- Steven Adams, C, Pittsburgh: He has a great upsize, but I think he should’ve stayed in college another year. Has no offensive game what so ever, but can learn how to score under the awesome tutelage of Kendrik Perkins (insert sarcastic laugh). I think Adams is a project, but in the long run will be worth it because of his size. Oklahoma was the ideal spot for him to land; there is time to learn.  Grade: C- 

Rd. 1 Pick 13: Dallas Mavericks (TRADED TO THE BOSTON CELTICS)- Kelly Olynyk, PF, Gonzaga- I think this would’ve been a better pick if he was able to learn from KG, but not that the Big Ticket has gone to Brooklyn. Olynyk will be thrown out on the floor too early and get eaten alive. Grade: C

Rd. 1 Pick 14: Utah Jazz (TRADED TO THE MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES)- Shabazz Mohamed, SF, UCLA- He goes from UCLA to the tundra of Minnesota. The kid has serious talent, and I know that Rick Adleman can bring it out of him, it is just weather he’ll comply. Coming into college, Shabazz was supposed to be the next big thing, but I see him being more of a problem than a solution. Hopefully he’ll prove me wrong and not turn out like Michael Beasley. Grade: B

Photo Cred: Businessinsider.com

Rd. 1 Pick 15 Milwaukie Bucks- Giannis Antetkounmpo, SF, Greece, #16 Boston Celtics (TRADED TO ATLANTA HAWKS) Lucas Nogueira, C, Brazil, and #17 Atlanta Hawks, Dennis Schroeder, PG, Germany : To be honest I don't know much about any of these guys. They're most likely going to be stashed overseas for a couple years, so it is a long-term investment. We’ll see in 2016! Grade: ??? 

Well, that concludes the first half of the draft. So far, I think the 6ers have the best chance of looking back to 2013 and saying- “wow that was a great draft for them.” Short term I think the Wizards took the biggest step in filling a hole that could possibly right the ship. The east is still weak towards the middle and bottom- could we see Washington float up to the 7,8, or 9 seed? I think the 76ers 2nd pick was too much of a reach. Don't see him playing out as well as a top 10 pick should, but he was the best available at the position. As is the case for all drafts, only time will tell. Is it October yet?!

Ben Makin is the Head NBA Analyst for Sports Eye View.  He can be reached at ben.makin11@gmail.com.

And the Foul

NBA Finals Preview

The Battle of the Big 3's

atgsports.blogspot.com

Intro - When I was a wee lad, my brother used to take me up to the community park to "ball out". Basically, this meant me standing at the top of the key and heaving with all my might to get that pumpkin up to the rim. We would spend about an hour there while he encouraged me and rewarded my single daily triumph with an ice cold coke. A few years later, I graduated to playing one on one with some of my friend's older brothers. This was a tragedy. Giving 150% of my effort just to be rejected at the rim and tossed around the court like Raggedy Andy, I would endure a comedic display of decimation on a daily basis. Myself and four of my BFFs taking the court against the equivalent of the MONSTARS from Space Jam. Their words for us after the game? "One of these days you guys will own this court." 

www.nytimes.com

In 2007, Lebron James and his four best friends (Gooden, Gibson, Ilgauskas and Pavlovic..... seriously?) walked onto the court in the NBA Finals against the high and mighty Spurs. To put it lightly, it was a comedic display of decimation. In a short and sweet four game sweep, Tim Duncan and Co. put on a clinic against the 2nd seeded Cavaliers. When the confetti streamed from the rafters in San Antonio after their game four victory, Duncan had just a few words for Mr. James: "In a few years this league will belong to you." 

Well, here we are. A few years have passed and the league now does belong to Lebron James. Lebron has established himself as the best player in the league for a few years now, and he finally got his coveted ring in 2012. Now, James finds himself back on the podium in 2013 with another shot at increasing his resume. How fitting it is that he would face the Big Fundamental in what could be his last hoorah as an NBA star. 

So what do we expect? 

blog.ticketcity.com

Spurs - This Spurs team is unbelievable. Anchored by Duncan, Parker, and Magnificent Manu, they have miraculously never lowered the bar of greatness. Popovich, one of the greatest basketball minds of his era and the best coach in the league (try me), has this Spurs team working like a well-oiled machine. Which is good because without some WD-40, this old classic would surely be squeaking and wheezing. Or would they? 

2.bp.blogspot.com

Tony Parker (31) is playing the best basketball of his career, averaging 23 points and 7.2 assists per game. Parker promised Duncan he would win him one more ring. It's looking like he doesn't like breaking a promise. Duncan (37) is averaging 18 and 9 while consistently stifling the best power forwards in the league with his reach and defensive toughness. He will most likely be matched up against Udonis Haslem at the PF. Enough said. 

Coming off an unprecedented 10 days off, the Spurs were able to go on vacation, play 10 rounds of golf and still have plenty of time to prepare for Miami. Of course, knowing Popovich, there hasn't been in a moment in the last 10 days when he has taken a break or allowed his guys a break for that matter. This team may have a bit of rust but they will be much more mentally and tactically prepared for the Finals than Miami ever could be.  

simplybasketball.tumblr.com

Heat - Remember back when Bosh and James moved to South Beach? Remember that embarrassing party that was held where they jumped around stage and talked about how they would win 6 straight? Well, after a tragic loss in 2011, Miami took their first step in that direction. Here's step number 2. Problem? Last year Lebron had the help of Bosh and Wade in his journey to the crown. This season, Wade and Bosh have a better chance of being admitted into an assisted living center than they do helping Lebron to the title. Wade is frail. That being said he still plays a pivotal role in this series. Even with a bum knee, Wade must score 15 a game for the Heat to succeed. 

Just as in years past, Miami's deficiencies come under the basket. Bosh is a formidable offensive talent but a lousy defender. Fortunately for the Heat, Chris Andersen has found a glimmer of youth underneath his chameleon skin. Andersen's rebounding prowess basket protection will be critical to Miami's success in key moments throughout this series. 

www.therichest.org

As far as Lebron is concerned, expect him to be an absolute force. The question is not will he score 20 a game, but will Leonard have what it takes to keep him under 30 a game. Love him or hate him, Lebron is an unstoppable force who enacts his will on any opponent. San Antonio will be no different. 

Prediction - So who has the upper hand? This is the million-dollar question. Honestly, I don't think either team has the upper hand. This series will be a game time decision, if you will. Lebron will dominate. The question is whether or not Wade has enough juice left to contribute and whether or not Bosh can find a spark. Like in Game 7 against Indiana, I believe Wade will contribute. But a knee-to-knee collision could eliminate his effectiveness at any moment during the series. 

blog.mysanantonio.com

For San Antonio, I believe the onus lies on the shoulders of Manu Ginobili. Manu has the ability to transform any game he enters. His break-neck mentality can be contagious and is absolutely critical for the Spurs success. 

So the big brother is getting older and the younger brother has come of age. Lebron stands in front of Tim Duncan tonight and tells him this is the time that the league changes hands. Easy Lebron. Duncan said a few years, but the due date has been pushed back. What he should have said is several years. 

An old but rested Spurs team steals Game 2 in Miami and caps a dream career for Mr. Duncan. I might be crazy but I'm going with my gut on this one. This series will be SPECTACULAR. But with a hobbled Wade, I don't think Lebron can put the team on his back long enough to win 4 games against this never quit Spurs team. The real Big 3 (Parker, Duncan and Ginobili) shows the younger brother once more that this league is not ready to change hands. 

Spurs in 6

Domination Station

Sports: America's Answer to Tragedy

By Ryan Frisco

America endured a tragedy last week.  A bombing at one of the country's most prestigious sporting events, the Boston Marathon.  Three people were killed, and close to 200 others were injured.  We've seen the live footage of what happened, and the countless graphic pictures of the chaos that ensued.  America has been here before, and far too often the last 15 years.

Photo Cred www.espn.com

In the days following, American Pride came out in all sorts of ways.  Through this attack, the USA has banded together as one, rallying behind the cry 'Boston Strong' and 'U-S-A.'  In this week's Domination Station segment, I want to feature professional sports in general, for their response to events like these and the ways they bring the country together.

September 9, 2011, the United States endured by far the worst terrorist attack in history.  Thousands of civilians were killed.  Hundreds of first responders were killed.  Countless are still dealing with lasting effects both physically and emotionally from this event.  Life stopped for a week after that.

When sports started up again, I had the honor of attending two huge events.  The second Saturday after the attacks, I was present for the Orioles home game at Camden Yards, as they took on the New York Yankees in a return to baseball.  Being in attendance for that game was unforgettable.  The pre game ceremonies saw the baseball diamond lined with firefighters and policemen, honoring them and their selfless service.  There were cheers echoing around that stadium for 10 minutes.  Cheers of 'USA' were heard the entire time.  I was only 13, but I know those who understood what was going on were crying.  This was a step in the healing process.

Photo Cred www.facebook.com

The next day, my family attended the race at Dover, the first race since the attacks.  It was just more of the same, as tens of thousands of fans came together in one place to not only cheer on the drivers, but show everyone else that life can go on, that America is strong, that we weren't afraid.  A teary rendition of the National Anthem.  Hours of the chant 'USA.'  A flurry of American Flags flying all over the grandstands.  Not only did these events help heal the wounds, it sent a statement to the world.

After the Boston Marathon, events in Boston were postponed for a few days.  When they came back, it was evident how the attack had once again brought us together.  If you haven't seen this yet, watch the video of the National Anthem during the first Boston Bruins hockey game last week.

            

That's enough to make you tear up.  I've never witnessed a National Anthem like that, where the entire stadium joins in.

There were plenty of other gestures around sports.  The Yankees played 'Sweet Caroline' after the third inning of one of their games to honor the victims.  The Red Sox held some pre game ceremonies this weekend (where David Ortiz used some questionable language) that were passionate and moving.

So much of America revolves around sports, and when something like this happens, sports play a major role in bringing us all back together.  I've witnessed this first hand.  After something terrible happens, it's freeing to sit down and watch a sporting event, whether it's a baseball game, football game, NASCAR race or anything else.  Sports are American, and somehow have that healing touch.  Sports know how important they are at a time like this, and do a fantastic job at living up to expectations.  Thank you sports for your impact this past week.

And the Foul

Wow He's Fast!

By Ben Makin

If you’ve ever seen the movie The Guardian, you’ll hopefully remember the scene where “Fish” (Ashton Kutcher) is breaking all of Senior Chief Randall’s records (Kevin Costner). Sr. Chief looks on the side lines and with great sarcasm remarks, “Oh man he’s fast, you don't even belong in the same pool as him..” Deep down though, amidst all the cynicism, he starts to realize wow, he really is something special. This is how the NBA teams and coaches are starting to feel about the Denver Nuggets. Sure, George Karl has had good, fast, dynamic teams in the past; but this good? What’s different about this team?

Photo Cred www.sports.cbsimg.net

1. Altitude?

When they play at home they don’t lose. The common thing you hear is altitude, but is that really it? Watching the Clippers-Nuggets game Thursday, their fans are ROWDY. They know when to cheer, when to boo, and when to get behind their team to push them over the edge. It also helps that they play ridiculously fast and are more than exciting to watch. That leads us to…

2. NEED FOR SPEED

Photo Cred www.blogs.denverpost.com

The Nuggets are faster than a Maserati. The Nuggets are faster than a groom getting his clothes off on his wedding night. The Nuggets are faster than a grandma with a cheetah taped to her back. The Nuggets are faster than every other NBA team. They run the break quicker than any team I’ve seen. As soon as they rebound its like the start of a race, full throttle going toward the other end. Their speed isn’t just on the break though- they have quick players. Ty Lawson, Andre Iguodala, Kenneth Faried, and even Javale McGee have a step that you just don't see too often. They’re explosive and quick. Combine that with an unreal pace and you see opposing players running circles on defense. When the Clippers bench is yelling to slow the pace, you know you have some speed out there.

Photo Cred www.espncdn.com

3. Versatility

The Nuggets run deep. They have eight guys who average over 8.0 points per game, and six of those players are in double figures. So they have options if a guy is struggling at any point in the game.  Most Nuggets can play multiple positions and therefore, at any point in the game you could have Lawson, Andre Miller, Iguodala, Gallinari, or Wilson Chandler playing 3 different positions. They can go small (Lawson, Miller, Iggy, Gallinari, Faried) or they can go very big (Koufos 7’0”, McGee 7’0”, and Mozgov 7’1”). What this means is they can match up against any lineup in the NBA.  

4. Defense

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They don't have great team defense, but like the cliché goes- “The best defense is a good offense” (wait?).  They run teams dry on the break so  that when it comes for them to go on offense, they aren’t as fresh. Andre Iguodala is one the best 1v1 defenders in the NBA, and he loves it. He would rather lock a guy down then go out and score 30. This frees up Miller and Lawson to get a rest on defense and explode on offense. Also, Iggy can defend almost anyone- CP3, LeBron, Paul Pierce- whoever.  It helps the Nuggets get around their defense deficiencies. Javale McGee is also a dynamic shot blocker. Sure, he’s on ESPN’s Not Top 10 more than anyone, but when he’s locked in, he’s blocked in. 

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5. Ty Lawson

He’s emerging. No one was convinced he was going to pan out in the NBA. Too Small, Inconsistent jump shot, bad defender. Well: He’s still small, but he’s put on a good amount of muscle and teams don't realize how strong he really is. His jump shot isn’t the best, sure its no Ray Allen, but he can still get buckets when he needs to- inside and out. Bad Defender? He’s better than Steve Nash, and is averaging almost two steals a game. Ty Lawson, since the all star break is averaging about 20 points and 7 assists. Those are great numbers, and his team is winning. With the NBA moving to a more athletic game, Lawson fits the mold. Ridiculously fast, quick and sneaky. There have been comparisons between him and Tony Parker, or Steve Nash (both MVP candidates in years past). While these might be a little bold at this point in his career, don't be surprised if he reaches this level. He’s dynamic.  

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So what can we expect from the Nuggets? That's a hard question. Many people believe that the only way to survive in the playoffs is with good defense, a star player, and a half court offense. In general that is the case, but this Nuggets team is different. They can make defensive stops, they have a little bit of a half court offense, and they’re fast. They can pound down low on some of the smaller teams in the playoffs. Comparisons are made to DiAntoni’s Sun’s teams, but George Karl is a better coach and schemer. He can plan around teams, and set up defenses to stop a lot of teams. If they can get home court advantage, look for the Nuggets to make a splash in the playoffs. That is one team I would not want to see in the first round, does anyone have the stamina to last with Denver for seven games? We’ll see!! 

And the Foul

Why the NBA Can't Be the NCAA

By Ben Makin



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This year the NBA and the NCAA are having great seasons. The lack of a serious contender in college basketball is leading to exciting games where truly, any team could win on a given night (Wake Forest-who has a losing record- just beat #2 Miami who just beat #1 Duke who beat #20 NC State who beat #1 Duke who beat  #4 Ohio State who beat Michigan who lost to an unranked Wisconsin team who lost to a terrible Iowa team who has a losing record…are you lost yet? Long story short- Iowa is one of the best teams in the country? No, maybe not).

The NBA on the other hand is full of superstars who are electrifying the court night in and night out. There are obvious favorites to win the ‘ship, but teams on the rise have a serious chance in pulling off an upset.  Both playoffs are going to be more exciting than they have been in years.

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So here’s the main question- why are people more excited for the NCAA tournament than the NBA playoffs? In talking to people, I keep hearing, “Oh the NBA is good, but it's just a bunch of athletes, they took the team game out of it. College Basketball is so much better” And other things like, “College Basketball actually has defense...” Both these statements have hints of truth to them, BUT if you look closely things are not as they seem.

Debate 1

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The NBA is full of the best athletes in the world, hands down. They’re freaks of nature that could jump over the empire state building if the lane was open. To top it all off they make an exorbitant amount of money so there is an ego factor involved. Put those things together and you have the recipe for Isolation Stew. That's what the great majority of the NBA is (not a bad thing). There are a few teams that aren’t following that mold: the San Antonio Spurs and the Indiana Pacers (1 and 2 respectively in their conferences). Watching these two teams play is like watching an artist at work; slow, methodical and in the end it's pretty. Their “off the ball movement,” cutting, screening, slipping, help defense, is the best in the NBA right now.

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 Both are HOT teams that can’t seem to lose, so why aren’t teams following in their footsteps? Because it’s perceived to be “boring” to watch (*at least to most casual basketball fans). When given the choice to see either Kobe and the Lakers light it up with their star power, or the Indiana Pacers play hard nose team basketball, most people are picking the Lake-show 9 out of 10 times. The Laker’s record is clearly worse (8 games below the Pacers), but they consistently sell more tickets on the road.  

Once again, why?

Teams are about selling and winning (in that order) and the best way to sell is to have a superstar take the ball and dunk over someone.  The Spurs have Tim Duncan who can barely touch the net, and the Pacers are from Indiana, they don't allow dunking there. Despite this, they’ve adapted, and play a different brand of basketball. So why is it more exciting to watch a team play fundamental basketball in Cameron Indoor, but not in Madison Square Garden? That's a great question, and one that people need to ask themselves.

So sure, the NBA is more of an isolation game. It sells. But if college basketball is so much better, why do we complain when teams play like an Indiana Pacers club? I’m just trying to get some consistency here!

Debate 2

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Defense is played in the NBA, contrary to popular belief. Sure it looks different than the college game and the YMCA rec league you play in on the weekends, but that is because the game is different. First, there aren’t bad players in the NBA; guys are there for a reason. College has a greater variety of skill levels, and teams have to play differently to adjust to this. The Association has players that are so advanced offensively; the defense literally cannot stop them. THAT DOES NOT MEAN THERE ISN’T DEFENSE BEING PLAYED. Watch a team like the Heat, Pacers, Bulls (well not lately), Spurs or Celtics and you see the lock down defense a college team plays.

Also, college teams have multiple practices a week. Their schedule is one where they can scheme to upcoming teams, try out new defenses, and really prep for the next opponent. During an NBA season, teams do not have this luxury. And when they do (during the Playoffs!) we see some staggering defense and amazing games that come down to the wire. This is all because teams can prep for their opponent and have about 7 games to figure it out!

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The two leagues are not that different. The NBA is faster, and does lean to be more of an isolation game, but that is because fans complain when teams try to play college ball.  And sure, College Basketball has “better defense”, but they aren’t playing as high of a level of athlete. They have more time to adjust and be coached. All I’m saying is don't quit on the NBA, because the game is changing. If you sit down and watch some good teams play, you’ll see some amazing talent and basketball skill. Give it a chance, the league is reaching the heights of the mid 90’s when MJ was on his grind. Sure, the NBA isn’t the same as college… but I love it.

Boom Goes the Dynamite!

Andrew Bynum: The Great Philosophizer 

By Ryan Frisco

This section is devoted each week to an embarrassing performance by a professional athlete.

Oh, Andrew Bynum.  You come into Philly with so much hype, and do nothing but disappoint.  Dude, you're 24 years old with the knees of someone 80 years old after two failed double knee replacements.  Seriously?  When will we ever see you out on the court in 76ers gear?

Bynum graced the listing of our Not column two weeks ago.  In that instance, he was fresh off his loser statement regarding his potential return to the court.  "It doesn't really matter to me when I start playing again," or something like that.  Yeah, it doesn't matter to anyone else either.  Not to the owner who's paying him millions of dollars, not to Coach Collins who is trying his best to win games without his star player and especially not to the millions of fans who flock to games and cheer on the Philadelphia 76ers in the greatest sports city in the world.  No, you're right Bynum, no one cares when you come back.

As if that wasn't enough, he chose this week to add to his great portfolio of stupid quotations.  When being questioned on whether or not he would play this season, he said he would definitely be playing in 2013.  On a side note in that conversation, he went on to say that he could care less how the fans felt.  The NBA is a business and this is how it is.  Deal with it.

Really?  I'll tell you what, if there's one thing Andrew Bynum is great at, it's winning fans over.  He's probably as good at that as he is bowling.  I still can't figure out how he managed to do more damage to his knees bowling.

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I'm not a basketball fan in the least.  I haven't watched a basketball game since John Stockton and Karl Malone were in the heat of playoffs against the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan.  But somehow, I have been able to learn everything about the 76ers highest profile player to never play a minute.  

One other thought;  What is up with the hair?!  C'mon man!

Showcase Showdown

Will the LA Lakers Make the Playoffs?

By Caleb Musselman and Ben Makin

In the offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers created an All-star team. With the acquisition of Dwight Howard and Steve Nash, their starting lineup featured Nash, Bryant, World Peace (Artest), Gasol and Howard. Enough said. Many people in the sporting world wondered if this team would lose 10 games. Well, we are quickly approaching the All-star break, and the Lakers sit at 23-26. After a 3 game winning streak, they now have the same amount of losses as Philadelphia and sit in the 10^th seed in the West. Things haven’t quite gone by the script.

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In this week’s Showcase Showdown, Ben and I are going to discuss whether or not the Lakers can crawl from the depths and squeak into the playoffs.
Ben says yes, I say no.

Caleb – The Lakers have the wrong coach implementing the wrong system. With D’Antoni and Nash paired in Phoenix, the fast break offense was quite spectacular to watch. They averaged over 100 points a game, and defense was an afterthought. Now, take the same system and place the slowest starting five in the league into it. Not quite the same results. Unless D’Antoni decides to change his style to a more defensive minded, half-court offensive scheme, the Lakers will continue to underperform. Add on and off injuries to Gasol and Howard, and things get a little hairy, my friend. Ben, you’re up.

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Ben- The intro says it all: They’ve assembled an all-star team; and contrary to the movie Miracle (which I love), All-Star teams do win!  The problem is getting them healthy.  Steve Nash and Dwight Howard aren’t playing like themselves because of injuries, and now Pau’s out. DOESN'T MATTER. Nash’s body is old, and while he has been back for a while now, he is just starting to find his groove (first time all season). Kobe is urging Dwight to play though the pain, and I think this tough love will put a fire under DH12 to start to produce. The Lakers have a 6-1 record in their last 7 games (against some playoff teams, you might add), and are starting to understand the way to play. Things are looking up for the team that is now only 3 games below .500, and 3 games out of a playoff spot. Your move.

Caleb - The argument that Dwight will be rejuvenated and invigorated by Kobe’s tough love doesn’t work for me. Dwight Howard is a massive princess. The most talented big man in the league, Howard has underperformed in every big spot he’s ever been put in. Very much like Bynum, Howard’s selfish attitude is sometimes laughable. After attempting to create his own version of “The Decision”, Dwight went where the light shines brightest: LA. However, he obviously wasn’t prepared for the limelight. Yes, he has been plagued by nagging injuries, but the Howard and Kobe feud proves that Dwight didn’t quite understand whose town he was moving to. LA is Kobe’s city, and until Dwight understands that, this team will fizzle around the .500 mark. There are no pushovers in the top eight of the West. Without team chemistry and unselfishness, I don’t see the Lakers gaining ground.



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Ben- He was traded to the Lakers, and is still under contract. It was not really his choice to go to LA, the Magic took the best deal they possibly could (which wasn't that great!). I think Dwight is slowly learning that he isn’t going to be king for a while. And while they might fizzle around the .500 mark for a while, that’s okay. It is known that there is a 1^st half playoff team that tanks in the 2^nd half. The Utah Jazz are that team. Their second half schedule is harder than ever, and the Laker’s is noticeably easier. Also, Kobe can put a team on his back. I don't care how old he is, how “selfish” he is, he’ll get it done. Look at this season, things start to look bleak- a small losing streak. BOOM Kobe changes his game and takes his team on a win streak. Sure, they still don't have a great record, but the Mamba is keeping them afloat. Dwight will settle in. He has too much pride to fizzle out. Nash’s locker room leader demeanor will soak on to the court. Once that happens, the LakeShow will be back, the Staples will be jumping.  Just like stew, give it time to brew.



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Caleb - Just the other day I was watching NBA TV and Bill Simmons, your favorite sports analyst, as he talked about the Lakers season. He basically said that the Kobe/Dwight abusive relationship is only going to get worse. Kobe is an atrocious off-the-court leader. You mentioned that Nash’s locker room leadership will help them, but he is and will continue to be choked out by Kobe’s ego. This town ain’t big enough for anyone else but Kobe. Additionally, the Lakers don’t have the role players to turn things around. World Peace will never change his game or his mentality, and this entire team needs to change their approach to the team and the game for them to be successful. The injury to Gasol will set the Lakers back even more during a time when they could potentially go on a run. The Jazz have historically dropped off but even if they do, which I don’t see happening, Portland is a highly skilled team that any #1 seed would like to stay away from in the first round. On paper you’d think that this Lakers team HAS to turn things around eventually, but this “every man for himself” high school musical is only going to get worse. I’m banking on them finishing right around .500. A few games out of the 8th spot.



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Ben-While I do love the Sports Guy, He has been known to be wrong. I think Kobe does have an ego problem, but at the same time Nash can have a calming effect on those players bothered by Kobe. Losing Gasol did hurt a lot, but with the emergence of Earl Clark (WHO?!) it’s not as big of a blow as one would think. Clark has scored in double digits 10 out of the last 13 games and is averaging a little over 9 rebounds a game in that same span. While he is still young, and not as consistent as Gasol, he has a better 3pt shot and creates matchup problems at the 4 spot. When Pau gets back, look for him (Gasol) to come off the bench and bear the load off the weak bench. He can fill in at center for Dwight, and is such a good passer, he will find perimeter players when he gets double teamed. This team has a lot of good pieces that will fit together once they can maintain some health and gain confidence in each other. And, good point Caleb, Portland will give the Lakers a run for their money, no doubt. The problem with Rip City is their bench is the worst of all playoff contenders. They have no solid depth, and this will cost them in the long run. One injury to their starting 5 and things could go south quickly (Like Minnesota last year). Lakers have enough star power to be able to withstand a couple injuries, Portland doesn't. I see the Lakers taking the eight spot and creating a VERY interesting round one.



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Caleb – If the Lakers do squeak into the playoffs, the absolute highest spot they will catch is the 8^th seed. While the Lakers have shown a bit of promise during the last 2 weeks, they proved with losses to Boston and Miami that they are still an average team. Only in the Eastern Conference do average teams (Sixers, Bucks) make the playoffs. And the Los Angeles Lakers are a VERY average team. Last year, the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim put together an All-Star team. They were one of the top favorites to win the World Series, and with good reason. End result? A barely .500 record and no playoffs. The similarities are strikingly similar with the Lakers team. As they struggle to stay afloat in the second half of the NBA season, a lack of team chemistry, an unwillingness to play a team game and the wrong coach with the wrong set of players will send this team to the same fate as the LA Angels of Anaheim. Sometimes the stew is made with the wrong ingredients. No matter how long you let this stew brew, it’s going to taste like poo. Finish it off Benny boy.




Ben- While the Angels are a good example, I think there is precedent for teams putting an all-star team together and doing well (Miami). They played terrible their first season together (all be it better than the Lakers, but hold on). The media, if you remember, was very quick to say Spoelstra was a terrible coach, LeBron and Wade can’t play together, Chris Bosh looks funny, and they don't have a bench. While Miami ended up losing in the finals their first year, they had a great end of the season.  The same could happen for the Lakers on a smaller scale. Kobe doesn't want to miss the playoffs, it’s not what he does! I think he’ll keep his ego a little more under wraps than normal just to ensure a birth April 20, 2013 when the playoffs start. There’s a saying that I just love- Winners Win. Kobe is a winner and he’ll make sure he takes his team into the postseason. Then look out. If I had to play them first round I would be shaking in my boots, for 7 games who knows what this team could do with the star power they have.

Well Folks- we laid out the facts, now you decide. Let us know what you think in the comments section and vote on our poll to let us know if you think the Lakers will make it in!