Explained: Why Kansas City Will Never Get Another NBA Team.

Kansas Citians have long been considered ‘basketball aficionados.’  With the inventor of the game coaching only 40 miles west in Lawrence, KS, Kansas City has always been a basketball city.  The City has strong ties to the three major Division I college programs in close proximity; Kansas, Kansas St. and Missouri.  Kansas City was also home to the ABA/NBA franchise, the Kansas City Kings, from 1972 – 1985, where the team encountered limited success.  The Kings enjoyed their most success in a 3 year span stretching from 1979 to 1981.  In the 1978 – 1979 season the attendance at Kemper Arena averaged 10,789 fans, the only time during the team’s tenure in KC that the average attendance would be in five figures.  The Kings made the NBA Playoffs in both the 1979 – 1980 season and the 1980 – 1981 season, where they would eventually fall in the Western Conference finals.  After the improbable Playoff run, the two leading scorers were plucked from the team as Otis Birdsong was traded to the NJ Nets, and Scott Wedman signed a free agent deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Prior to the 1983 – 1984 season, the Kansas City Kings were sold to a Sacramento group of investors for $10.5 million.  The team remained in Kansas City for the time being and snuck into the Playoffs as an 8-seed as the NBA expanded from a 6 to an 8 team format.  The Kings would be swept by the Lakers in the first round, and their fearless leader, Coach Cotton Fitzsimmons, would resign to take a job with the San Antonio Spurs.  This left the team in disarray, losing 8 of their first 9 games to start the 1984 – 1985 season.  The team would continue to struggle, and the owners announced midseason that they intended to move the team to Sacramento after the season.  After the announcement, the team would often play in front of crowds of less than 4,000 fans.  The Kings would finish the season in last place and the NBA Board of Governors voted unanimously to allow the team to relocate to Sacramento.

In 2004, the City of Kansas City, MO struck a deal with AEG to construct and operate a new facility, the Sprint Center, in downtown Kansas City, MO to anchor the new Power & Light District, a $850 mil project.   AEG President , Tim Leiweke, promised the arena wouldn’t go empty, “I can assure you, there is going to be an anchor tenant,” Leiweke told The Kansas City Star in May 2004.  It is now 2011, and there is still no anchor tenant.  AEG has “tried” to bring in anchor tenants, the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Seattle Sonics, the New Orleans Hornets, and the Sacramento Kings.  AEG offered the Penguins the “whole pie,” a rent free lease and 50% of all revenues, which the Penguins turned down before striking a new deal in Pittsburgh.  A lopsided deal like this would’ve been very detrimental and many people were thankful the deal wasn’t accepted. The arena remained flexible and had the ability to schedule the best concerts/performance, and host various sporting events, CBE Classic, Big XII tournament, and NCAA tournament games.

The building cost $276 million to construct. AEG put up $54 million in cash, which is all going to be paid back, with interest. The National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) put up $10 million. The city is financing the rest through taxes on hotel rooms and rental cars. The city pays an annual debt service of about $13.8 million a year. So far, the hotel and car rental fees have exceeded projections and have allowed the city to meet their required payments.  AEG takes 16% off the top of any Operating Profit generated at the arena.  The remaining balance is then split between the City and AEG.  An anchor tenant would have an effect as far as pulling down the available revenues because a portion of those revenues would then go to an anchor tenant.

In order for a team to relocate to Kansas City, a group of investors would have to be willing to purchase a team and begin the relocation process.  The NBA owns the New Orleans Hornets after a buyout was completed in December of 2010.  The NBA remains committed to making a franchise work in the city of New Orleans and has no intentions, at this time, to relocate the team.  The Maloof brothers, owners of the Palms Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, own the Sacramento Kings.  The brothers want the city to begin construction on a new arena in Sacramento, which hasn’t happened.  The brothers want to move the team to Las Vegas, which wouldn’t sit well with the NBA Commissioner due to the gambling laws.  Would the brothers be willing to sell the team if the city doesn’t approve financing for a new arena or they aren’t allowed to relocate to Vegas?  Many people believe they would.  Would there be a group of investors that would be willing to buy the team and relocate to Kansas City?  Many people believe there wouldn’t be.  If an anchor tenant is given a sweetheart deal, like the one proposed to the Penguins, would the arena be able to generate enough revenue for the city to cover their debt service payments?  Most likely not.

The newly elected mayor, Sly James, recently came on Nick Wright’s radioshow and said he didn’t think the Sprint Center would have an anchor tenant anytime soon.  With the type of success the Sprint Center has enjoyed thus far, he didn’t think it would make sense to bring in an anchor tenant.  Would Kansas City residents be willing to support an average NBA franchise?  AEG doesn’t want an anchor tenant in the Sprint Center either.  AEG promised an anchor tenant in the initial planning phase knowing this would be the only way their cash cow, the Sprint Center, would be built.  Kansas Citians will just have to settle for college basketball and an exhibition NBA game every year, quite the consolation prize to another NBA team.

Selby Saves the Streak

Josh Selby made his highly-publicized debut for the Kansas Jayhawks late Saturday morning, in front of a raucous crowd at Allen Field House.  Selby poured in 5 three-point field goals, including his first attempt as a Jayhawk – from NBA range no less.  Selby hit 2 three pointers and added 4 free-throws, to end the half with 10 points.

In the second half, Selby turned it on and showed everyone what all the hype was about.  Selby showed incredible poise throughout the game, playing tough defense and looking for his teammates on the fast break.  The ally-opp lob to Thomas Robinson on the break brought the fans to their feet midway through the 2nd half.  USC fought back after trailing 30-39 at half to take their first lead of the game, 64-62, with 3:23 left in the game.  After a big offensive rebound from Brady Morningstar, Selby drains his 4th three pointer in the game, giving KU back the lead.  After a KU timeout with 38 seconds to go, Bill Self draws up a play as the Jayhawks find themselves trailing 68-66.  With another huge offensive rebound from Markieff Morris, Marcus Morris finds Selby wide open with the extra pass.  Selby rises, and knocks down what would end up being the winning shot, giving the Jayhawks a 69-68 lead with only 20 seconds remaining.  Kansas comes up with a big defensive stand late, and Tyrel Reed hits the first free throw, icing the victory over USC, 70-68.  It was Selby’s day, marked on the calendar weeks in advance.  Kansas fans found out early and often what this young man is capable of doing.  A great win by the Kansas Jayhawks, extending the home winning streak to an impressive 65 straight games.

 

We salute you Mr. Josh Selby, well done.

 

Weekend Round-Up

Jason Whitlock’s “The Explanation”

Jason Whitlock gave his teary side of his public divorce from the Kansas City Star Friday afternoon on Nick Wright’s 610 sportstalk show, which was simulcasted on MetroSports.  Titled “The Explanation,” the first hour was spent with Whitlock giving commentary on his whole life story.

The highlights of the show were Jason getting the live feed pulled on him as he described a night out with the editor of the Kansas City Star, Mike Fannin, which involved some man-on-man kissing.  Whitlock making public what many in the Kansas City area knew, Mike Fannin’s relationship with sports editor Holly Lawton.  Whitlock couldn’t stand the unethical environment in which the Star was being operated, and decided after the KU Ticket Scandal in which Fannin wouldn’t let Whitlock quote a columnist from Yahoo! Sports, he was leaving the paper.  This wasn’t the first incident in which Whitlock was involved in during his 16 years at the Star, but this is what drove him over the edge.  He describes an “Award Culture” at the Star and alleges the Star’s pursuit of top Journalism Awards, at the expense of covering hot topics to hold businesses and people within the community accountable.  The second hour Nick Wright asks a few questions about his gig at Yahoo! where he will be a columnist.  He revealed he’ll have a salary of $2 million over a span of 3 years, in which he will split time between his residence in LA and KC.  He said he really enjoyed his time in Kansas City and it will always hold a special place in his heart.  He started to get emotional as he described the disappointment which he brought on himself by not completing the things which he set out to due in the newspaper industry.  He said he will probably never write for another newspaper, but will be active with his Twitter account and with is column on Yahoo!.

Clemens Indicted on Perjury Charges

Hall of Fame pitcher Roger Clemens was indicted on felony perjury charges for allegedly lying to Congress under oath last December.  As you recall, his slightly publicized hearing in front of Congress over his alleged steroid use took place a little over 8 months ago in which The Rocket denied the claims feverishly.  Clemens used PED, in the form of at least HGH, and has lied about it ever since, even claiming his former trainer injected his wife with HGH and that one of his biggest admires/best friends in the game, Andy Pettitte misremembered Clemens telling him he used HGH.  This is getting real ugly for Roger, real fast and he needs to just admit his part in the storied “Steroid Years” of Major League Baseball.  Everyone knows that everyone else was using them and that’s just the way it was.  It was accepted within the clubhouse and looked upon in a “dont-ask dont-tell” light.  Many other players accused of using steroids have been able to move on and try to salvage their reputation/place in MLB history (looking at you Mr. A-Rod).  Hopefully he realizes this before his court date and accepts this plea bargain.  We all know Clemens isn’t the prize everyone on the steroid witch-hunt is looking to expose, that honor belongs to you Mr. Barry Bonds.

The Old Gunslinger Returns to Minnesota to “Finish What He Started.”

Brett Favre returned to Minnesota Tuesday, August 17th, on the practice field Wednesday, and suiting up as the starting signal caller for the Vikings in their second preseason game Sunday night in San Fransisco.  This is becoming an annual thing with Favre and I think everyone in the sports world is better off now that he has quit holding everyone hostage.  Favre looked rusty, as expected, in his 1 possession in the game Sunday taking a big sack from 49er LB Patrick Willis.  I think Favre still has enough in the tank to make things happen with a strong supporting cast in Minnesota.  This team must stay healthy, something that can be said of all NFL teams, and will have to deal with a reloaded GB Packers team in the NFC North. However, I’m not ready to anoint them the favorites in the NFC.  The defending champs, NO Saints, are from the NFC and they have a huge showdown with the Vikes to kick off MNF on Sept. 13.

Team USA defeats Spain in Exhibition Game before FIBA Worlds

What a game.  Team USA jumps out to a huge lead, only to let the Spaniards back in the game, and eventually take the lead with just over 2 minutes remaining in the game.  After a strong left handed layup by Derrick Rose, followed by 2 free throws, USA regains the lead, 86-85, with 16 seconds remaining.  Team USA makes a great strategic move and comes out of the timeout in a 2-3 zone, call name “Orange”, named after assistant coach/head coach of Syracuse, Jim Boeheim.  The move paid off and Kevin Durant is able to block Rudy Fernandez’s last second shot to preserve the US victory.  Kevin Durant and Derrick Rose led the way for the Stars and Stripes in a game where Coach K relied heavily on his starters.  Russell Westbrook also had a productive game and looks to have solidified his spot on the team.  Team USA was without the services of Rondo, Granger, and Love during Sunday’s game, none of the 3 logging any minutes.  Juan Carlos Navarro led the way for Spain, who was energized greatly by young point guard Ricky Rubio.  Spain was unable to stop the USA’s strong guards.  USA is going to live and die by the play of their perimeter players, as they only have three true big men.  They will face tons of zone when the Worlds begin next weekend and will have to show the ability to knock down the open shot.  It should be a great chance for the younger stars in the NBA to showcase their talents.  It will be an exciting tournament, and will help bridge the gap to college football and the start of the NFL season.

Worst Tornado Chase Ever

Andy Greenhaw’s award winning tornado chase.  Entertaining none the less.  A whole year ago…I’m sure that’s not the last tornado Thorsten and Andy chase.  Good stuff.

Worst Tornado Chase Ever

Video is above, Andy’s blog is to the right.

2010 NFL Draft Diary

Roger Godell welcomes everyone to the NFL Draft.  Really plays up the fans and thanks them for their support.

#1 St. Louis Rams:  Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma, Jr.

“This might be the best moment in this man’s life in the next 9 months.” -Steve Young

Can’t argue with the pick here.  The Rams need a franchise QB and this man fills the need.

Grade: A

#2 Detroit Lions:  Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska, Sr.

“You don’t hit home runs, a lot, with this position.” -Chris Berman

He is the “expert.”  As much as I believe Berman, which is little, I believe Suh is the home run of this draft.  The best player, and one of the most unique prospects the NFL has seen recently.

Grade: A+

#3 Tampa Bay Buccaneers:  Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma, Jr.

Much love, Gerald shares a bear-hug with the commish.

“The 3-technique is the engine that makes this defense go.” – Jon Gruden

Gruden said in regards to the defense he had at Tampa Bay the year he won a Super Bowl there with the comparisons to Warren Sapp.  This guy is a more physically gifted player than Warren ever was and would’ve been a Top 5 pick in last year’s draft had he declared early.

Grade: A

#4 Washington Redskins:  Trent “Silver-Back” Williams, OT, Oklahoma, Sr.

Another big embrace with Roger. Shanahan needs him to be his Ryan Cladey.

“He understands what he’s looking for.” – Jon Gruden

Shanahan asked Trent if he was committed to being great.  This man’s ceiling is very high.  He is very athletic and is willing to work hard, allegedly.   Definitely fills a need, and is always a good idea to protect McNabb.  Has all the tools to develop into a book-end left tackle.

Grade: A

All 4 picks from the Big XII

#5 Kansas City Chiefs:  Eric Berry, S, Tennessee, Jr.

“Kansas City fans got to be excited.”  Jon Gruden

Eric Berry is an absolute beast.  A freak of nature.  The best safety prospect…ever.  Ed Reed-esque, Sean Taylor-like.  The Chiefs didn’t flinch at the price-tag and went with the best player available.  Would have been satisfied with Russell Okung, but Eric Berry is the truth.  Welcome to K.C. young-fella, get to know <a href=”http://www.kansascity.com/2010/04/21/1894419_please-draft-dez-bryant.html”>Jason Whitlock.</a>  Tell him you’d own Dez.

Grade: A+

#6 Seattle Seahawks: Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma St., Sr.

Came into early draft season as the best left-tackle prospect in the draft.  Fell behind Williams in the draft, but still a very special player.  Has all the tools to take this offensive line to the next level.  Walter Jones is done as a LT in this league, and Okung helps Pete Carroll get this team back on track.

Grade: A

#7 Cleveland Browns:  Joe Haden, CB, Florida, Jr.

The first surprise of the draft, in my opinion.   This is definitely a reach.  The man ran a slow 40-time at the combine and fell down a lot of big boards, allegedly.  The Browns are done drafting Notre Dame QB’s and cross their fingers and roll the dice with Delhomme for the 2010 season.   My roommate believes this pick is a “swing..and a miss.”  I agree.

Grade: C+

All bets are off on the next pick…Al Davis is on the clock.

#8 Oakland Raiders:  Rolando McClain, LB, Alabama, Jr.

McClain’s entourage is pretty excited.  As they should be, the man is now rich.  Rolando is the best linebacker in the draft and will have an immediate impact on the Raiders defense.   This pick makes sense to me, but there are still a lot of holes on that team.  Doesn’t fill an immediate need, which is on the O-line.

Grade: B+

#9 Buffalo Bills:  C.J. Spiller, RB, Clemson, Jr.

Pure speed.  An awesome return-man and a lot of experience with the ball in his hands.  The Bills have more immediate needs along their offensive line.  The Bills show little confidence in Marshawn Lynch and hope Spiller plays out like Chris Johnson.  He has the potential, rather or not he lives up to it has yet to be decided.  Good luck in Buffalo.

Grade: C

Quick look-in on the Cavs-Bulls game.  47 – 66.  Cavs getting dusted in Chicago.  LeBron’s running mates have disappeared.

#10 Jacksonville Jaguars:  Tyson Alualu, DT, California, Sr.

Surprises every body.  The poor guy wasn’t even mic’d up at his own house.  I hope someone lets him know he’s been drafted.  Projected by many to go in the 2nd round, by far the most surprising pick up to this point.  Not sure what the Jaguars are thinking, but they are the experts not me.  None of the mock drafts had Alualu going this high.  I guess you have to trust your front office.  More than one DT graded out higher than Alualu.

Grade: F

#11 San Francisco 49ers (via trade from Denver Broncos):  Anthony Davis, OT, Maryland, Jr.

Davis jumped up a ton of draft boards after his combine.  Showed some freakish athletic skills and really surprised the Raiders passed on this workout warrior.  Not sure why the Niners thought they must move up #13 with Denver and Miami both having book-end left tackles.  Davis improves this line, but his potential has yet to be tapped.

Grades: B-

#12 San Diego Chargers (via trade from Miami Dolphins): Ryan Mathews, RB, Fresno St., Jr.

Big back with a lot of power.  Led the nation in rushing with 1,800 yards.  Scored 19 TDS, and ran a 4.37 forty at 220 pounds.  This man is a beast.  The Chargers didn’t think he’d still be around when they picked late in the first round.  Addressed a glaring need, and if they’ve done their homework right, could pay off huge in the long run.  For now, is a great compliment to Darren Sproles.

Grade: B

Denver trades back again.  Giants’ fans show their love for the team on the clock, “Eagles suck…Eagles suck!”

#13 Philadelphia Eagles (via trade from Denver Broncos):  Brandon Graham, DE, Michigan, Sr.

I thought the Eagles were moving up to take Earl Thomas, but went a little off the beaten path taking Graham.  Most people had Derrick Morgan rated higher on their draft boards as DE, but Brandon’s the pick.  He can get to the QB and make things happen, a natural pass-rusher and someone that will produce at the next level.  Solid pick, but may have been around at their original position.

Grade: B

End of the 3rd Quarter in Chicago, the Cavs carved into the lead, down 11.  68-79.

#14 Seattle Seahawks:  Earl Thomas, S, Texas, Soph.

A very good pick for the Seahawks.  This man is ready for the NFL and will be a defensive play maker for years to come.  Can’t argue with this pick,  a ton of people had this player high on their board.  He can play corner or safety and has great ball skills and instincts.  The Seahawks address offense and defense, effectively.  I don’t think they could’ve handle their situation any better.

Grade: A

#15 New York Giants:  Jason Pierre-Paul, DE, South Florida, Jr.

6’5″, 270 lbs.  A natural pass-rusher with super long arms.  Bounced around to two different JUCOs before landing at South Florida.  Hasn’t tapped his potential yet and loves doing backflips.  The man can get to the QB and make plays happen.  Could have the most upside of anyone in the draft.  Will get coached up in New York and become a star.

Grade: A

#16 Tennessee Titans:  Derrick Morgan, DE, Georgia Tech, Jr.

After missing out on Pierre-Paul, the Titans “settle” for Morgan.  I personally didn’t think he’d be around at this position, but the Titans are very happy to see him sitting here at #16.  The man comes ready to play and will make a lot of things happen at the next level.  Definitely upgrades the D-line.

Grade: A

Update from Chicago:  A pretty dish from Lebron to Antwain and the Cavs cut the lead to 2.  92-94.

#17 San Francisco 49ers:  Mike Iupati, G, Idaho, Sr.

I wouldn’t have been surprised to see the Niners take Clausen with this pick.  I’m not sold on the Niners QB situation and think it needs to be upgraded.  They take their second offensive linemen and this time on the interior.  The Niners are constructing one of the best O-lines in the league.  Not the sexy pick, but a pick that will pay dividends for years to come.

Grade: B+

#18 Pittsburgh Steelers:  Maurkice Pouncey, G, Florida, Jr.

The Steelers don’t threaten Big Ben by drafting his replacement.  Instead they shore up their O-line.  A very good pick with lots of potential and can play either Center or Guard.  Graded out high on a lot of draft boards and deservedly so.  He and his twin brother anchored the Florida O-line and are definitely capable of being productive at the next level.

Grade: A-

#19 Atlanta Falcons:  Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Missouri, Sr.

Some consider him undersized and undervalued, but the man can play.  Was basically in on every tackle in Missouri bowl game his senior year.  He has a nose for the ball and will make tons of tackles in the NFL.  He can easily compete for the Defensive Rookie of the Year playing in Atlanta.  Has a productive NFL career ahead of him.  Played against a lot of pass happy offenses in the Big XII and should serve him well in this division with the Saints vertical offense.

Grade: A

LeBron hits a 3 with 10 seconds left in the game.  Cavs trail 102-104.  Rose to the line to ice the game…misses on the first attempt…swishes the second.  Timeout Cleveland.

#20 Houston Texans:  Kareem Jackson, CB, Alabama, Jr.

Quality pick and need for the Texans.  Played for a great defensive coach at Alabama and will be prepared to play at the next level.  This pick has little risk, and could pay off big for the Texans.  Upgrades the secondary.  Great value pick and projects to start in year 1 for Houston.

Grade: B

#21 Cincinnati Bengals:  Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma, Jr.

4th Sooner drafted in the First Round.

Best receiving TE in the draft.  Coming off a serious knee injury, missing his final season at OU.  Is definitely a game changer in the passing game, but the questions about his blocking ability are legit.  I’m okay with this pick, but not sold on it.

Grade: C

Varejeo fouled, goes to the line shooting two…make the first…misses the second…Brad Miller grabs the rebound and is fouled with 4 seconds left in the game and the Bulls up 2.  Miller hits both free-throws.  Mo Williams hits a miracle 3 to pull the Cavs within 1, 106-107.

#22 Denver Broncos (via trade from New England): Demaryius Thomas, WR, Georgia Tech, Jr.

The Broncos try to fill their need from the Marshall trade and take Thomas.  The man is physically gifted, big and fast.  I like Dez Bryant more, but some think he has character issues.  Thomas is coming off an injury, but was very productive in a run-heavy offense at Georgia Tech.  Not sold on this pick at all, but filling a need saves the F grade.  Broncos do a lot of moving in the first round, 3 trades.

Grade: D

Bulls make 1 and intentionally miss the 2nd…Anthony Parker heaves a half-court shot that bounces off the rim, Bulls survive, 108-106.

#23 Green Bay Packers: Brian Bulaga, T, Iowa, Sr.

Considered one of the best Tackle prospects in the draft, Bulaga can definitely play.  He may be a better fit as a right tackle due to his short arms, but still has the frame and ability to be successful at the next level.  Anything Green Bay brings in is better than what they got.  I respect the pick and think the value is there.

Grade: B+

#24 Dallas Cowboys (via trade from New England):  Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma St., Jr.

“This is an unbelievably bad man on a football field.”  -Jon Gruden

The best WR in the draft, and possibly the steal of the draft.  The Cowboys wanted to address their defense and their O-line, but make the sexy pick and take the Texas native.  Dez is an absolute monster and his yards-after-catch are off the charts.  Makes all the catches and is hungry after slipping all the way down to 24.  Paired with Miles Austin, the Dallas offense should not be taken lightly.  Denver will regret passing on this kid.

Grade: A

Tebow and his crew sporting Broncos hats…a trade has been announced…Denver’s 4th of the first round…

#25 Denver Broncos (via trade from Baltimore):  Tim Tebow, QB, Florida, Sr.

Denver…wow…all over the place.  Thomas over Bryant now Tebow over Clausen?  What?  That front-office needs to check its pulse.  The guy can play football.  Who knows if it is quarterback at the NFL level.  Right now, Tebow is not ready to be a QB in the league.  He is ready to play in the Wildcat formation, and he could possibly be a full-time QB in the next 3 years.  Yes he is a winner, and he is a leader.  He must go into Denver with the mind-set to get better and I think he will.  ESPN wishes he would’ve stayed on the board a little longer, but he goes off the board at 25.  Tebow’s marketing campaign is one for the ages.  All this talk about his delivery is great, but he goes to Denver to learn behind Orton and Quinn.  Good luck.

Grade: C+

#26 Arizona Cardinals: Dan Williams, DT, Tennessee, Jr.

Graded out as the best 3-4 DT in the draft.  A very good player who fills a big need for the Cardinals.  Will have a productive career in the NFL if he stays motivated.  Some have questioned his work-ethic causing his draft position to fall.  Upgrades the D-line for Arizona, but they have a long-way to go to make the playoffs this year.  The NFC West will be a better division this year, with San Francisco and Seattle both looking to compete.

Grade: B

#27 New England Patriots:  Devin McCourty, CB, Rutgers, Sr.

Doesn’t have strong ball skills only had 5 career interceptions at Rutgers.  Ran a 4.38 at the combine and really improved his stock.  Is an excellent tackler in the secondary, but won’t lead the league in interceptions, ever.  The Patriots think they know what they are doing, but most had McCourty behind Kyle Wilson.  I like Wilson more than McCourty and am a little confused why you take a Special Teamer/Dime CB in the first round.  But I’m no expert.

Grade: C-

#28 Miami Dolphins (via trade from San Diego):  Jared Odrick, DT, Penn St., Sr.

6’5″, 303 lbs.  Can play DE in a 3-4 scheme with ease.  Most mocks had Williams going to the Dolphins with the 13th pick, but they get the 2nd best 3-4 DT in Odrick.  Two attacking pass-rushers are still available, but the Dolphins address their need on the D-line.  A very good value pick, and were able to pick up another pick in the latter rounds.

Grade: A-

#29 New York Jets:  Kyle Wilson, CB, Boise St., Sr.

With Cromartie and Revis manning the edge, this pick confuses me.  The Jets believe Wilson is the best player available and I’m surprised he lasted this long.  The defense the Jets run out will be the best in the league.  I would’ve liked to see them address their front 7 on defense, but this is a good value pick.  Not sure the need this pick fills, other than a quality player.  The Jets could’ve made their team a lot better with this pick, but Wilson does improve it slightly.

Grade: C

#30 Detroit Lions (via trade from Minnesota Vikings):  Jahvid Best, RB, California, Jr.

This man can run with the football in his hand.  He has some durability concerns, but compares to C.J. Spiller.  Has a lot of value and will make an immediate impact on the offense.  I still would’ve liked to see them take an O-lineman to help protect Matt Stafford but sometimes a quick running back like Best has the same effect.  Another sexy pick.  These GMs are loving this whole “primetime” draft.

Grade: B-

#31  Indianapolis Colts:  Jerry Hughes, DE, TCU, Sr.

Came to TCU as a running back.  Coached up to one of the best pass rushers in college last year.  This is a great pick by the Colts and fits their mold perfectly.  A great story who will have a productive career in the NFL.  Will disrupt plenty of passing schemes in his time.

Grade: A

#32  New Orleans Saints:  Patrick Robinson, CB, Florida St., Jr.

Is a freak of an athlete.  Makes plays in the running game, and is the last corner that had a first round grade.  The Saints needed a corner and Robinson fits the need.  Upgrading the defense is a smart move and gives the blitz happy Saints more help on the outside.  A smart pick from a smart front-office.  Can’t argue with the pick here.  A good way to close out the first round.

Grade:  A-

Summary of the Grades:

A’s: 15

B’s: 9

C’s: 6

D’s: 1

F”s: 1

Steal of the Draft:  Dez Bryant selected #24 by Dallas Cowboys

2010 NBA Playoffs Round 1 Preview

The NBA Playoffs are finally upon us. The LeBron LeBrons get the action started Saturday afternoon, as they take on the feisty Chicago Bulls. The complete schedule for Round 1 are here and the matchups for Round 1 can be nicely analyzed here where their regular season games can be compared. For a quick Run-Down…

Eastern Conference

#1 Cleveland Cavilers vs #8 Chicago Bulls

#4 Boston Celtics vs #5 Miami Heat

#3 Atlanta Hawks vs #6 Milwaukee Bucks

#2 Orlando Magic vs #7 Charlotte Bobcats

Cleveland v. Chicago

The LeBron LeBrons may come out some what rusty in the first game Saturday afternoon, but I think the energy from the Q lifts them past the Bulls in Game 1.  Joakim Noah will have to control the paint, and Derrick Rose must abuse Mo Williams on the offensive end.  In the end, it will be too much LeBron James.  If you’ve never seen this beast/robot/human play the game of basketball, do yourself a favor and at least catch one 4-minute stretch of LeBron court time through-out these next 4-5 weeks and I promise you he will do something that you’ve never seen done on a basketball court.   The man is that athletically gifted.  Cavs in 5.

Boston v. Miami

The aging Celtics must find it within themselves to battle a hungry Heat team.  Miami will win one game in Boston, and another one at home.  If Boston can get anything out of KG’s corpse during the first round, it will be just enough, as Rondo carries his lifeless teammates on his back into the second round.  Celtics in 6.

Atlanta v. Milwaukee

Without Andrew Bogut, Milwaukee has no chance.  Atlanta could easily sweep this team behind a driven Joe Johnson, and a re-born Josh Smith.  For pity sake, I’ll give the Bucks 1 game at home, but this is the series that is most likely to be done with in 4 games.  Hawks in 5.

Orlando v. Charlotte

This Charlotte team didn’t get a lot of national airtime before MJ officially bought the majority of the team, but the dudes can play.  Led by the Dynamic Duo of Gerald Wallace and Stephan Jackson, the Bobcats can compete.  This will be a great warm-up series for the Magic, and will really test their offensive efficiency against a strong defensive team.  Charlotte will win at least 1 game.  The Magic must find their balance on offense between Dwight Howard and his three-point chucking teammates.  A tested Magic team, although re-built, takes care of the Bobcats in the first round.  Magic in 6.

Western Conference

#1 Los Angeles Lakers vs #8 Oklahoma City Thunder

#4 Denver Nuggets vs #5 Utah Jazz

#3 Phoenix Suns vs #6 Portland Trailblazers

#2 Dallas Mavericks vs #7 San Antonio Spurs

Los Angeles v. Oklahoma City

Lakers in 5.  Too much Gasol, not enough Durant.

Denver v. Utah

This series will be a battle.  2 of the games will be blow-outs in either the direction, and the other 5 will come down to the last possession.  Two evenly matched teams, equally banged up.  I like the Nuggets in 7, just because of Boozer’s health issues.

Phoenix v. Portland

Injury ruins this match-up, much like the Hawks-Bucks.  With Roy, the Blazers have even less of a chance.  A “sweep” warning will be in effect for this series.  Suns in 5.

Dallas v. San Antonio

The Spurs really want to be good, but their 3 best players just seem worn down.  That will happen over a long, successful run like the Spurs have had.  The Mavs have never been over the Championship hump, but a team led by Kidd and Nowitzki has experience.   The midseason acquisitions of Caron Butler and Brenden Haywood from Washington prove to be key.  Mavs in 7.

The Monday After SB XLIV

A very good performance last night by the New Orleans Saints, defeating the Indianapolis Colts in stunning fashion, 31-17 in Miami. Sean Payton outcoaches the Peytons, Reggie Bush gets way to much face time, and we have ourselves the first Super Bowl Champs from the wonderful state of Louisiana.

So Drew Brees was an easy call for MVP, right? He’s got a brilliant line, 32/39 (82%), 288 yards, and 2 TDs. Not bad if he’s playing on your fantasy team, or even your NFC Conference Championship Super Bowl team.  The guy can play, obviously.  Any talking head you hear will tell you he doesn’t have the biggest arm, not your prototypical size for a franchise QB in the NFL.  However, the man proves his critics wrong, that’s you San Diego, and gets to enjoy the birth of his first son and his first Super Bowl in the last 12 months, not a bad year for you Drew.  On this night I saw Drew make every throw on the football field.  Precisely placing the ball in his receivers “hot” zones time after time, drive after drive.  He’s line could of been better without some drops by his receivers.  Made all the right reads, and kept the ball out of the Colts defenses hands all night.  Commendable job, looking like everything you want in a Super Bowl winning QB, but not necessarily your franchise QB, ha.

Some people will tell you the biggest story of SB XLIV was Peyton Manning not getting his 2nd ring.  The NFL poster boy, comes up short, in the biggest game of his career up to this date.  Yes, he also offered a beautiful line for the Kadel Kings, 31/45 (69%), 333 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT.  The 1 pick was crucial, coming on the 2nd biggest play of the game.  Peyton stared down his intended target, allowing Tracy Porter to jump the route and return the first interception of the game, with 3 minutes to go in the game mind you, to the house for the dagger that sealed the Colts fate.  Peyton seemed to be in total control the whole game, avoiding timely blitzes from the Saints, and for the most part, connecting with his wide receivers.  You just had a feeling he was going to lead the 4th quarter comeback and the Colts would win the game.  That’s the way I felt.  This wasn’t the case.  Peyton proved he was human, and for this act he will have to endure another offseason before he gets his second ring and closes the gap on Tom Brady as best QB in the league.  Or should I say the active QB with the most rings?  Drew Brees is closing that gap on Tom Brady as well, fast.

If ever a coach, or coaching staff, were to win the MVP of the Super Bowl, Sean Payton and Greg Williams could definitely make a case.  The gutsiest call in Super Bowl history, attempting an onside kick to open the 2nd half down 10-6 to the Peytons, turned the tide and allowed the Saints a second chance.  If they don’t recover, Peyton Manning gets the ball inside his 50, the Colts most likely score in less than 6 plays, and the Saints are out of the game down 17-6.  This isn’t the way it played out, he convinced his team in the locker room they were going to recover the kick, and executed it masterfully.  The players redeemed the coach after his botched 4th and 1 play in the second quarter.  Thinking FGs wouldn’t win the game, may have won him this game.  The defense had an answer for every Peyton Manning audible.  Williams’ players were able to stick to the game plan and disrupt the Colts flow, leading to the pick 6 by Porter to seal the game.

All and all, a very entertaining game.  The Who played a good halftime performance and the commercials delivered.  Zoom on over to Andy’s blog for a quick view of his top 5. Get ready for BIG MONDAY, as the Jayhawks travel to Austin to match up with Texas. Should be a good one!

All too Familiar (KU vs MU I)

The stage was set for a classic upset; #2 vs. Unranked, bitter rivals, and national television. The only problem: someone forgot to inform the visitors of Allen Fieldhouse that they had a game to win.

The game started fast for Mizzou, jumping to an early lead, and leaving the Jayhawk faithful gasping for air. Keith Ramsey hit two open 3′s to give the Tigers the edge. Kansas slowly started to pull away half way through the first half lead by two juniors, Brady Morningstar and Cole Aldrich. Aldrich had arguably his best game of the season, finishing just shy of a triple-double, with 12 pts, 16 rebs, and 7 blocks. The inside presence of the Minnesota native definitely hindered MU’s attempts at anything inside the paint. The highlight of the night belonged to Morningstar, who hit a miracle 3 at the end of the half to give KU a 50-30 advantage headed to the locker room.

In the second half, it was much the same. A lot of missed MU jumpers as the Tigers finished 19-68, (28%) their worst shooting performance of the year by far. The Jayhawks dominated the glass, finishing the game with a distinct advantage, 53-28. The Tigers were able to force KU into turning the ball over, but only 9 of KU’s 23 turnovers were steals. In a game where Sherron Collins didn’t play his best basketball, 2-11 from the field and 4 turnovers, Marcus Morris was able to pick up the slack and lead the Jayhawks in scoring, finishing with 17 pts and 9 rebs. Markieff Morris contributed a HUGE 19 minutes, finishing the game with 9 pts and 11 rebs. Tyrel Reed continued to stroke it from deep, connecting on all 4 of his 3-point attempts.

The Jayhawks showed a lot of poise, but still turned the ball over WAY too many times. I’m sure Bill Self addressed this after the game. It is just unacceptable to turn the ball over 23 times, even though they were playing against a pressure defense team in Mizzou.

Xavier Henry is still playing like a young man that could use another year in school. He shows flashes of brilliance, but more often times than not, he looks lost on the court. I know he’s a good basketball player, and I know his basketball IQ is high, but come on, finishing the game with only 8 shot attempts and 7 of them coming from distance? That isn’t going to help anyone win the national championship, or get drafted in the lottery for that matter. X is still probably a late lottery selection at this point, but if he continues to play the way he has the past couple of weeks, his draft stock will slip. He needs to attack the basket and make plays for himself and his teammates. This will open up the outside where he’s proved he can hit wide open shots.

I'm not smiling about the way you played last night...trust me.

What is Al Jazeera English?

My buddy had a very unique experience interning in DC for Al Jazeera English.  Below is a like to his website that quickly explains the platform and who they are trying to reach, in a short YouTube video.  Please take the time to watch the video, Andy spent a lot of time working on it and it is just brilliant. Andy can be reached directly through his site, or email, andy.greenhaw@gmail.com.

Andy’s Site.

FEAR THE BEARD (EERRR SOMETHING LIKE THAT.)

First off, what a game. Got to give it to K-State, the crowd was fired up and players in purple came out with a lot of emotion and energy early. Feeding off the crowd’s energy and strong interior defense the Cats jumped out to an early lead. Uncharacteristically, KSU was lead by their young big men as their experienced wings played subpar. Jamar Samuels, a 6-7 sophomore from DC, played out of his mind, pacing the Wildcats with 20 points on 8-13 (62%) shooting and 12 rebounds. Curtis Kelly, a 6-8 junior transfer per way of UConn, also had his best performance of the year scoring 17 points and pulling down 8 rebounds in 32 minutes of work. The usual suspects, Clemente and Pullen, really pressed and tried to do too much against Texas’s inexperienced backcourt, combining for 17 points on 4-24 (17%) shooting, including 0-8 from distance.

On the Texas side, All-American candidate Damion James had a performance he’ll soon want to forget. Connecting on just 3 of 12 shots, James was a non-factor on the offensive end. Missing shots within 6 feet of the basket was his specialty on this night, and his lack of composure really showed finishing the game with 4 turnovers versus 0 assists. Avery Bradley, Jordan Hamilton, and J’Covan Brown all played like…well, freshmen, because that’s what they are, especially in a hostile environment. They got rattled early, and were never able to get in any sort of rhythm, finishing the game with a combined 21 points. When their All-World forward James and blue-chip freshmen aren’t playing to form who would the ‘Horns turn to? Their experienced point guard, Balbay, couldn’t answer the bell, finishing with an unexcusable 6 turnovers, and their best big, Pittman, played an ineffective game, or 16 minutes, on both the offensive and defensive end.

Texas was able to keep the game close, eventually grabbing the lead back halfway through the second half, but was unable to contain the bigs of K-State. Every win on the road in the Big XII will be an absolute slugfest, and the conference will produce some memorable games this season. For the first Big Monday, this matchup lived up to the billing. It crucial for the likes of Samuels and Kelly to continue to play with passion the way they did last night. It will also be telling to see how the young Texas players handle defeat, their first of the season, and prove they have the poise necessary to compete for a conference championship. Only time will tell.