NBA Draft Winners and Losers

By: Laz Jackson

Uggghhh... I need coffee, I can't feel my left arm, there's marker all over my right arm, one of my eyelids feels heavier than the other, and I don't remember a thing. It MUST have been an awesome night. The good picks, the bad picks, the awesome trades, the "scratch-your-head" trades (Babbitt and Ryan Gomes for.... Martell Webster? Huh?). It's starting to come back to me... so let's review:

The Nightcap: Cuz it feels so right

Just when you thought you couldn't get enough vuvu in your life

- I have been trying to deflect from acknowledging any sort of rumor that involves Chris Paul getting traded from the New Orleans Hornets. This is one of the biggest mistakes any franchise in any sport could make. I know, I know they are only rumors but the fact that it has even been brought in within the Hornets inner circle is enough for me to roll my eyes. There is no way Paul is going anywhere, and if New Orleans could afford it, I am sure they would lock him up to a blockbuster deal. Even though the NBA has had a renaissance of new superstars step into the limelight in recent years, dealing Paul would not only be ridding the team of the best point guard in the league, but would be ripping the heart and soul out of the franchise.  Backup point guard Darren Collison played very well last season while filling in for Paul while he was injured, but there is just no way the Hornets could ever get equal value for a player like Paul. There is just no two ways about it. New Orleans needs Chris Paul around for a long time.

- Bobby Valentine and his porn 'stache disguises are apparently on the verge of returning to baseball.  The Florida Marlins are prepared to make him the next manager of the team. 

- The NBA draft happened tonight. Laz Jackson wrote up a great live blog of the event that can be found here. The Sacramento Kings have got to love snagging DeMarcus Cousins with the 5th pick. He could be Rookie of the Year in 2011. I don't really want to hear about maturity issues just yet. He is 19 years old, of course there are maturity issues. He possesses all of the physical attributes that could make him a beast for the Kings for years to come. Only time will tell.

- Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth stepped his game up and told his team he will be present once mandatory camps open up here very shortly. The fact that his presence was even in question is both sickening and disheartening.  A year ago Haynesworth signed a contract for 7-years and $100 million with an NFL-record $41 million in guaranteed money. A humongous contract for a defensive tackle who himself has had trouble playing at a high level on a consistent basis. Now, the Washington Redskins will be changing the scheme of their defense this season-moving from a 4-3 to a 3-4 and thus putting more pressure on Haynesworth to shoulder much of the defensive load while fighting off constant double and triple teams. This didnt sit well with the big fella and there were reports that he would not attend camp. On top of that, the new Mike Shanahan regime in D.C is already looking to deal Haynesworth and his massive contract. My two-cents? SHUT THE F**K UP AND PLAY. YOU JUST GOT $41 MILLLLLLLLL. 4-3? 3-4? 1-6? WHO CARES. Whatever happened to athletes actually being...well, athletes.

- I was watching Any Given Sunday over at a friends house today and a few things came to mind since I hadn't seen it in years. I do like the movie. I think it was one of the first movies to really dive into many of the things that go on behind the locker room doors. Of course it was highly exaggerated as only Hollywood knows how to do, but for the most part it does a good job. However, this film has some of the worst cuts of unnecessary male dong scenes ever. What genius thought that putting so much visible locker room dong in a movie marketed to MEN would be a good idea. I dunno, I just didn't remember there being so many times I had to look away before...maybe I am just used to the made for TV version. It's just too awkward...and no ladies, it is NOT the same as seeing female nudity in films. Not even close.

- Bill Clinton still knows how to get down. Tippin a few back with Team USA after their World Cup victory is something we should all be able to embrace.  Let's just hope there were no cigars around...or blue dresses...or interns....

-Whatever we want. Whenever we want it. The Nightcap.

-MJK

The Lakers Held It Down. The Rest Is Now History.

Even when they trailed 3-2, the series was always within arms length for the Lake Show

By: David Washington

Two very evenly matched teams played a closely contested game last night and managed to create a sports atmosphere that rivaled even a Superbowl. The Lakers-Caltics rivalry was back in full force. The intensity of a Game 7 was relevant throughout, but the mood that was created seemed to peak late in the fourth quarter. The Lakers had been trailing the Celtics for the majority of the game, when Los Angeles began surging back. Slowly but surely, the familiar chants of “MVP” began to ring throughout the Staples Center as Kobe Bryant began to do what he does best, take control of the game. Sure, his shooting night was extremely poor, but a true champion never stops trying to find a way to contribute. His 15 free throw attempts helped to force four Celtics players into foul trouble. His 15 rebounds put him only second to Pau Gasol for the game. And his defense, though immeasurable by any numerical stat, was stifling. Managing to dominate a game without having a hot shooting hand? Sounds like a champ to me.

         With the win, Kobe’s name will once again be thrown around by fans, players, and analysts alike as they try to decide who the greatest basketball players of all time are. Sure, four championship rings was nothing to scoff at. Hell, few players can even claim to have been to the NBA finals, never mind win four rings. But, because Kobe was wearing the Purple and Gold of the Los Angeles Lakers, just four is never good enough. What Kobe needed as a stamp on his Hall of Fame Laker career was something that all the Lakers greats had, a win over the Boston Celtics. A daunting task, considering the fact that the Celtics feature three surefire hall of famers in Allen, Garnett, and Pierce as well as one of great young point guards in the NBA in Rajon Rondo. With the recent injury troubles of Lakers Center Andrew Bynum, the quest to beat the Celtics got even harder. But Bryant managed to pull through and win it all in one of the most memorable Finals of recent history. Does this make him the greatest Laker, or even (dare I say it) the greatest player of all time? I say not yet. But there’s a key word there, “yet”. I’m sure that by the end of his career, Kobe will have firmly secured his name as, at the very least, equal to names like “Magic” and “Kareem”. Will Mr. Bryant be able to surpass Jordan? That’s still uncertain, but even the consideration of being on par with MJ is an accomplishment that few people though any man would be able to achieve.

      There’s a multitude of other stories that have emerged from this NBA finals other than Kobe’s assertion as one of the most dominant players of NBA history. First of all, will Phil Jackson retire, firmly secured as the greatest pro basketball coach of all time? Will Doc Rivers take a break from coaching so that he can spend time with his family? What about the Big Three? are they officially “too old” and “finished”? How about Ron Artest finally getting that hard fought piece of jewelry into his much deserving hands. “Queensbridge’s Finest” has long been considered one of the best defensive players in the game, but his somewhat illogical and irrational behavior (see “The Malice at the Palace”) has often kept GMs away from him as the key ingredient on their potentially championship winning team. However, in a bold offseason move, the Lakers acquired Artest through free agency and marketed “Tru Warrior” as the missing ingredient for a repeat. Finally, the talented but unpredictable Artest was getting his chance on a championship caliber team. And now that he had been given the opportunity, Ron-Ron wasn’t about to let it pass him up. He cemented his legacy with an excellent NBA finals performance that could’ve won MVP on a team that didn’t sport a future legend (I’m speaking of Kobe of course). His defense was on point and, though he took a few errant shots here and there, his shooting was often clutch when the Lakers needed him to step up his game the most. Almost as important was Artest’s emotional control, as he was able to contain himself and refrain from picking up an abundance of technical’s during the series. And with that Ron Artest cemented his legacy on the game. Other than the aforementioned Bryant and Jackson, and perhaps Pau Gasol, there is no one that deserves more credit for this championship than Artest.

      Kobe Bryant’s resume as a Lakers legend and one of the greatest to play the game strengthened. Ron Artest finally got his much deserved championship ring. And the sport of basketball gets to put on a premiere series that not only excited avid basketball fans, but was able to draw in many others that don’t frequently watch as well. This will surely make the 2010 NBA finals a series to remember. In closing, I’d like to point out that there are few cities that know how to celebrate a championship like LA (which is probably a good thing because we can only afford to divert so much police attention to stop championship induced riots). Almost as entertaining to watch as the game itself, LA fans celebrations often result in the destruction of thousands of dollars of property damage. But if there was one championship to celebrate like a madman, this would be the one. Hard fought Game 7 wins over your most hated rivals only come every once in a while. So party on Lakers fans, party on. You deserve it. 

Why This Game 7 Will Be More Than Just A Game

Its hard for many of us to look back to the days when Bird and Magic saved the NBA, which is why this chapter of the Celtics-Lakers rivalry should mean more to us as current fans of the league.

Why this Game 7 will be more than just a game:

By: MJK

·      -There is no Magic Johnson or Larry Bird. No Bob Cousy or Elgin Baylor. No Bill Russell or Jerry West. What we are witnessing now is a Lakers-Celtics rivalry that is fit for our generation.   The game has changed as much as the players.  In twenty years it will be this and the 2008 (and any future) series that we will reminisce on.

·      -A 5^th ring for Kobe will only further enhance his resume for not just the greatest player in the NBA today, but for the Greatest of All Time. Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson and ____________ <--(insert name here) enthusiasts need not apply. Its something to think about.

·      -A Celtics victory will give the franchise its 18^th championship, most in the NBA. The Lakers? Just behind them. A win for the Lake Show will push their total to 16, just one behind the C’s.

·      -The collection of nicknames that are being repped in this series is one for the history books. Try to keep pace now: The Black Mamba, The Candy Man, Ron-Ron or Queensbridge or Tru Warrior, The Big Ticket, The Machine, Jesus Shuttlesworth, The Truth or Beetlejuice, and Big Baby amongst others. Only if we could get the commentators to call games like this. “Shuttlesworth misses the three, Tru Warrior with the board. Mamba pushes the ball up court, passes the ball back to Ron-Ron who spots up and SINKS THE THREE!…SAY QUEENSBRIDGE!!”

·     - Rumors have been running rampant about the futures of both coaches.  Just yesterday Phil Jackson came out and said that he did not know if he had another run in him after this season.  If he departs (which I doubt he will) it will be goodbye to the greatest basketball coach of the modern era. Say what you will. Even if he does leave, I think he comes back to coach for another team somewhere down the line.  Doc Rivers has been heard mentioning that he also doesn’t know what life beyond this season holds. Rivers is only 48 years old and has said that he would like to spend more time with his family in Orlando. He obviously could revisit coaching a few years down the road.

·     - The strength of vindication:  No matter what happens to the Celtics tonight, you have to tip your cap. Coming into this seasons playoff run, the Cavaliers and Magic seemed to be the best bets to make the finals out of the East. Many had written the team off as old and inconsistent. Well, with the help of some sneaky motivational techniques…they find themselves one win away from a title.

·      -Throughout the Lakers Game 6 blowout victory it seemed as though Ron Artest and Kobe could have played 5-on-2.  During much of the first half, these two played defense that obviously stifled the Celtics.  Everywhere you watched it was one of the two making hustle play after hustle play.  Now we all know what Kobe brings to the table.  But if Mr. Ron-Ron can step up one more time it could be a long night for Boston fans. Hate him or love him…Ron Artest IS the X-Factor in this game. The Lakers don’t need six-3 pointers from him, just six made shots at a decent percentage.  Remember, Artest is still trying to prove that the Lakers swap from Trevor Ariza was the right move to make. Well, Ariza has his ring….will Queensbridge’s finest get his?

·      -Not to stray too far away from Game 6…it will be interesting to see how the Lakers will come out. Game 6 was impressive, no doubt….but that was just about as bad as it gets for Boston and as good as it gets for L.A. Let’s not forget. In 2008 when the Celtics came out in Game 6 and threw down the hammer on the Lake Show and the rest as they say is history.  I think the Lakers will take this game home, but if they don’t watch their back- the wiley Celtics could just as easily put them on their backs one more time.  Momentum may be one of the most over-used and over-rated terms in sports. That being said, I wouldn’t want to see any of it wasted on a Game 6 that was over before half time.

·      -Which team will be able to overcome the lack of a big man? Boston center Kendrick Perkins is out after hurting his knee in Game 6 and Lakers center Andrew Bynum’s injured knee has been much chronicled.  Boston will have to adjust some of its in-game strategy, but lets be honest….we are talking about Kendrick Perkins. A big body who can snag rebounds, but its not Shaq in his prime.  The Lakers may be less equipped with a hampered Bynum, but they are much more prepared since Bynum has been going through this injury for most of the postseason.
  
      -  There have only been four NBA Finals Game 7's in the past thirty-years. The Celtics are a perfect 8-0 in Finals Game 7's dating back to 1957. Four of those wins have come against the Lakers. 

·      -Mamba and the depth of the Lakers versus the Big Three. Should be one for the ages. Just remember, this rivalry is writing history all over again. Everyone in my generation is about to experience a Lakers-Celtics NBA Finals Game 7 for the very first time.  Lets sit back and enjoy what should be a terrific game.

USC Has A Long Ways to Go Before they Become Relevant Again

The state of USC football is certainly up in the air after a harsh NCAA ruling

By: David Washington

It was obvious that there was going to be some NCAA violations with the recruitment and handling of former USC running back Reggie Bush. The college football community was certain that there would be some sort sanctions against the Pac 10 powerhouse. But, rather than merely giving the Trojans a sharp reprimand or a slap on the wrist, the NCAA threw the book at the storied program and banned them from postseason play for 2 years AND took away 30 scholarships (10 per year for the next three years). That’s like expecting to be grounded for a week and instead being sent to military school. So was the NCAA too harsh, or did the punishment fit the crime? And how will this affect the future of Trojan and Pac 10 football?

The term “student athlete” has been a joke for many years at schools with major athletic programs. These athletes are often recruited using illegal methods. Bribery is not an uncommon tool, andspecial treatment is commonplace simply because of their physical ability. To make matters even worse, many of the star athletes have failed to complete their roles as a student, and they are still given unfair advantages. Though USC has the two highest profile faux “student athletes” in recent memory with both the OJ Mayo and Reggie Bush scandals, there are quite a few others that have occurred in recent years.

Alabama was recently caught in a textbook scandal and was forced to vacate three years worth of victories. Florida State’s whole athletic department was put under a microscope when it was found that athletes in 10 different sports were caught cheating in an online music history class. Oklahoma was recently sanctioned for “failing to monitor” their players employment and allowing players to receive money from an outside source simply because of their status on the football team.

Though all these violations were punished, none were as severe as the one that USC had handed down. Perhaps this is because the Trojans have so often been suspected of violating NCAA rules or because USC and Reggie Bush denied all allegations of wrongful activity. Another logical, though unfair, reason for the harsh sanctions is that the NCAA simply hopes to make an example out of USC. By showing other institutions how much it will cost them if they continue to break rules then they will be punished in a manner that will affect their program for years to come. Not exactly the fairest scenario for USC. However, if that’s what it takes to put the honorable term “student” back into the “student athlete,” than so be it.

Needless to say, the biggest question still remains: “How will the sanctions affect USC football?” Only time will tell, but it is easy to speculate anything from a two year break from the national title picture to an eternal irrelevance. Realistically, the outcome will most certainly reside somewhere in the middle. If you look back to the most recent event that compares to the Trojans current plight is that of the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2002 and 2003. After being accused of 11 violations, the Crimson Tide were banned from postseason play in college football for three years. Though this didn’t destroy the program, it certainly damaged them and caused them to go 43-33 (a downright embarrassing record for a college football powerhouse) between 2002 and 2007. The team went on to win the National Championship just this past season.

USC fans should expect the fate of their program to go something similar to that of Alabama, but on a slightly larger scale due to contributing factors that are out of USC’s control. With the Pac 10’s almost assured expansion to the Pac 16 (along with the rise of schools like Cal, UCLA, Oregon, and Oregon State), USC’s recruiting would’ve already suffered without the sanctions. Now, with 2 years of bowl free football in the Coliseum, many top tier recruits will avoid the Trojans like the plague and instead aim for one of the other big name schools in the conference (which will soon include Texas, Oklahoma, and other Big 12 Powerhouses). The Trojans should expect more than 5 years to pass before they even challenge for a BCS title and the damned-before-it-began Lane Kiffin era of USC football will be ugly to watch and short lived.

So I’m sorry Trojan fans but, because of more reasons than simply the sanctions. USC football will never be the same. Never again will the cardinal and gold of the Trojans dominate college football as it did back in the days of Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush. Never again will dozens new four and five star recruits charge into the Coliseum and marvel at the arena that they will be allowed to showcase their skills.

You’ve had a good run, but It’s over. 

The Scene in East Lansing

Tom Izzo Meets with MSU Basketball Players: Friday, June 11

 

By Nick Kowalski

 

News trucks associated with Fox 2, Channel 4, and Channel 7 were ready to pounce - to be the first to speak with the coveted MSU head basketball coach Tom Izzo as he emerged from the Breslin Center, the site of an impromptu meeting between school officials and players.

 

Since I knew a story could break at any moment, I camped out in the Breslin Center parking lot for about an hour. My goal was to be there if and when something news-worthy were to leak from the mouth of a key staff member or the horse himself. Dressed in a suit and tie, I figured my attire would help me blend in, if need be. Afterall, I am an independent news/blog writer.

 

Pen and paper in hand, I approached the entrance of the home of the Spartans' basketball team. I had heard that a 'vigil' was held on Izzo's behalf on Thursday; after noticing an array of flowers, burnt-out candles, and homemade signs reading "Just Say... NO to Cleveland" and "Please Stay, Izzo," I am convinced that a legitimate service was in fact held by concerned students and alumni for the feared-to-be-departing, god-like college basketball icon.

 

*PRIMARY SOURCE NEWS*

 

Upon arrival, I asked Fox 2 News sports reporter Jennifer "Hammer" Hammond, who was on-site awaiting news from the closed-door meeting, if the news conference had yet happened or if it were scheduled. "No word of a news conference. There's a player meeting right now inside. Did you know about that?" said Hammond, treating me like a fellow news reporter (and rightfully so!). I also chatted with Hammond's cameraman, who told me that there was "no news conference." Channel 4 sportscaster Katrina Handcock, along with a news reporter with Channel 7, rounded out the Detroit media trio.

 

A few minutes went by, and then a couple of players left the building, heading toward the parking lot. The two players appeared to be laughing with one another - not the mood typical of a somber gathering of coaches and players. Above all else, this stood out to me, potentially signaling that Izzo would remain in East Lansing. One of the players was sophomore center Derrick Nix, who walked out with another player that I did not recognize. From a distance, I heard Hammond say something to Nix, followed by a brief reply. As Nix was climbing into the passenger seat of what appeared to be a Hummer H2, I asked him what took place in the meeting. In response to a pressing inquiry, Nix told me that "nothing" was said regarding Izzo's future with the team. Nix said that the players "got [their] Big Ten rings," as the team earned a share of the conference title this past season, during the meeting - and that was that. 

 

I spent some more time just outside of the Breslin, with the handful of Detroit network news reporters, cameramen, and personnel, hoping that Izzo or a representative from the school would issue a bombshell statement for better or worse. At one point, two MSU Police cars entered the parking lot, which led me to believe that something important was about to occur - but no dice. By the time 4:35 had rolled around, nothing new had happened, aside from a couple of gentleman who were dropped off and immediately entered the building, only expressing to the media that they "[could] not talk today." The vehicle that the two men arrived in took off with a player who left the Breslin - a two-for-one swap. I departed the vicinity shortly thereafter.

 

It has since been announced that Izzo will hold a news conference tomorrow, presumably to address his future at MSU and with the Cleveland Cavaliers

The Nightcap

Apparently, the Lakers are synonymous with Team USA

By: Laz Jackson

United States of America vs. England.

Six letters, you Tory, tea-and-crumpet-loving, bad teeth-having, Doctor-Who-watching soccer hooligans... 

U-S-A. U-S-A.

The Pac-16 Closer, Nebraska to join Big Ten (Ironically, now the Big 12)

We’ll have an answer on our Pac-16 SuperConference possibilities by next week. Promise. But whether or not this is a good thing remains to be seen. And as for Nebraska, welcome to the Big Twelve Ten. We needed you to hold a league championship game to make more money, and in return, you get to swim on a pile of money like Scrooge McDuck. Win-Win.

Big Baby “Beasts” Boston Back (Say it Five Times Fast)

With the Lakers’ Game counter-punch, every analyst and journalist KNEW that if the Celtics were going to win Game 4, it would have to be on the offense of Ray Allen and Paul Pierce. Fortunately for Boston, coach Doc Rivers didn’t know that. In sticking with his (suddenly) productive and high-energy bench players, Rivers gave the Celtics (and the Boston Crowd) a shot in the arm and tightened this series at two games apiece. Between the bench, Andrew Bynum’s knee, and the rest the starters got (which is important with their veterans), the momentum in the series has swung back to Boston. Of course, momentum doesn’t seem to mean much in this series.

Tom Izzo Must LOVE the Clash

Because he’s been singing “Should I Stay or Should I Go” for the last week straight, and it’s been driving me crazy. I’m a Spartan, Spartan born, Spartan bred, and I can guarantee that sales of aspirin and antacid are through the roof in East Lansing right now. He’s the face of the university. He’s from around here. If he stays, he has an All-American backcourt to win another championship with. If he goes, he may (emphasis on MAY) get to coach LeBron and the Pips. I freaking LOVE you, Tom. Don’t do this to me. To us. News conference scheduled for today.

Interleague Play this Week:

Yes, that’s right, stuff is happening in baseball-land, too! Interleague play gives us the opportunity to watch classic rivalries be renewed (White Sox-Cubs, Angels-Dodgers). Unfortunately, it also gives us some really, REALLY uninteresting series (Are YOU gonna watch Tigers-Pirates or Yankees-Astros? Yeah, didn’t think so). But the chance to watch Strasburg mow down a D.H.? THAT, I gotta see.

Please Do Not Blow the Vuvuzelas:

The Nightcap will not be a nightly installment. However, It will cover loose tidbits of whatever we want...whenever we want it. Until next time, I’m Lazarus Jackson, offering the Midwest Perspective.

The UFC looks to recapture the crowd with a couple of fan favorites

By: David Washington

As both a writer and a fan, I believe that all sporting events should serve at least one of two duties (and ideally both). The first is to crown a champion by any means necessary. This at least allows the fan to acknowledge who and what sets the standard for any given sport. This is a tangible goal that all organizations strive to achieve and it inspires fairness and good sportsmanship in sports.

However, there is another duty that in my opinion is a much more important obligation that all sporting entities must share. This responsibility is the true reason that these entities exist and without being able to draw buzz and excitement to the sport people lose interest extremely quickly. Providing an entertaining product to the public should be priority number one.

Seems like a no brainer, right?

Unfortunately, the UFC has been criticized of late for not truly entertaining the fans with their fights. Sure, all recent events have succeeded to find top contenders and new champions, but many of the fights that have occurred have ended not to the thunderous applause that the fighters deserve for their efforts, but rather to a chorus a boos. But this weekend, the UFC returns to its fan pleasing roots by giving the everyone a card that may lack any sort of title relevance, but in turn will bring the people back to their feet.

From the preliminary card all the way to the main event, UFC 115 is stacked with fighters that have a reputation of pleasing the fans with their exciting styles. With guys like Ultimate Fighter winner Mac Danzig (who will be fighting Matt Wiman) and Tyson Griffin (who will compete against Evan Dunham) on the undercard, UFC booking agent Joe Silva has put the UFC’s best foot forward and has made sure that everyone knows from the beginning of the night that they will surely be entertained.

The main card features Carlos Condit, a welterweight who has ended the fight with a submission or knockout in all but one of his victories. Heavyweight Gilbert Yvel, is a man who is big even for his division and has always delivered exciting fights (including one where he was disqualified for knocking out the referee in a fit of anger). Though Yvel and Condit aren't yet household names to the casual fan, true connoisseurs of MMA know that any time either of them is involved in a fight it will be something exciting to watch.

The night will then progress with two matchups that could, on any other night, compete for fight of the night honors. The first is a fight between Swiss kick boxer Martin Kampmann and one-loss Brazilian Paul Thiago. Both fighters are near the top of the welterweight division and are almost certainly going to stand and bang until one of them ends up taking a nap on the canvas. The next is a heavyweight matchup between American Kick boxer Pat Barry and "The Croatian Sensation," Pride Fighting legend Mirko Cro Cop. Neither of these men have any interest in taking the fight to the ground, and they will surely put on a spectacular show of kickboxing that will please the MMA die hard and casual UFC fan alike.

The main event, a contest between UFC hall of famer Chuck Liddell and one of the true warriors of the sport, Rich Franklin, is a fight that needed to happen, regardless of its irrelevance to the light heavyweight title picture. On any other night, either of the two aforementioned fights may stake claim to the best fight of the night. However, on Saturday these two household names will be sure to put in their two cents. Both Liddell and Franklin are fan favorites that love to put on a show. These two brawlers both have considerable abilities on the ground, but I'll be shocked if either of them go for a takedown in a fight that has the potential to be an instant classic. If you look at their most recent common opponent, Wanderlei Silva, you see that they both were able to defeat "The Axe Murderer" (though Franklins win was at a catch weight of 195) and both were able to produce UFC classics in the process. When Franklin and Liddel step into the octagon against each other on Saturday, they'll be looking for a repeat performance and I guarantee they deliver.

The UFC owes the fans a card like this. Sure, people may claim that its unimportance to the title picture makes it a waste of time and effort, but that’s not what this is all about. This card gets back to the roots. A lineup of pure entertainment for everyone to enjoy, and I promise these fighters will deliver.

Team USA's Marquee Matchup May Not Be the One You Think

    

By: Jared Quient

Here is a statement you’re bound to hear at least a dozen times on ESPN before this Saturday’s World Cup opening match between the United States and England:  “This is the most important match in U.S. soccer history.”  

I’m not even sure it’s the most important match the U.S. will play this week.

Don’t get me wrong.  Saturday’s game against the Three Lions is going to be sick.  I cannot remember being more excited to watch a sporting event than I am to watch this game (especially with the venerable Martin Tyler calling the action).   It is certainly the most hyped game in U.S. soccer history. But to say it’s the most important match is a bit short-sited.  Because whatever happens in Saturday’s clash, it’s ultimately what the U.S. does in its next game against Slovenia that will determine whether it moves through to the elimination round.

In many ways, the match with Slovenia poses a more difficult test than England.  They are exactly the type of team that gives the U.S. fits – big, tactically disciplined, and organized.  Slovenia plays a similar style to the Czech Republic who beat the U.S. 3-0 in the World Cup opener in Germany four years ago and 4-2 in a friendly late last month.

The point is this:  if you are a fan of the U.S., try not to get too high or too low based on what happens in Rustenberg against England.  While it will be fantastic to beat the Brits at their national pastime, it won’t mean a thing if the U.S. doesn’t bring it’s A-game against Slovenia.

Here are some things to watch for:

1)    Who starts alongside Jozy Altidore? 

Since Charlie Davies was wrongfully omitted from Bob Bradley’s final 23, there has been rampant speculation as to who would replace him as the second striker to play next to Jozy Altidore.  My money is on Edson Buddle, the Los Angeles Galaxy striker who scored twice in the United States’ final tune-up against Australia.  Soccer is all about form, and in this case Bradley should play the hot hand with Buddle, who has a goal-scorer’s knack for being at the right place at the right time.  Starting Buddle also allows Bradley to keep stars Clint Dempsey and Landon Donovan where they are most comfortable and effective – on the wings as attacking midfielders.

2)    How fit is the Gooch? 

Perhaps the biggest question mark during the team’s training camp has been the fitness of Oguchi Onyewu.  After spending the past seven months recovering from a torn patellar tendon, Onyewu looked sluggish against the Czech Republic and Turkey.  He’ll need to regain his leg strength to compete in the air with England’s front line.   If he can match the form he displayed prior to his injury, the U.S. defense ceases to be the massive liability the pundits are claiming it to be.

3)    Does Landon Donovan take the next step toward superstardom?

Coming off of a superb run while on loan at Everton, it is clear that Donovan has the ability to compete with the best in the world. If the U.S. is going to make a deep run in this tournament, Donovan will have to continue to score goals and make plays.  His form will be the key to the U.S. team’s success.  A strong performance on the world stage could also set Donovan up for an opportunity with a top European club team next season.

Lets Introduce: Bryce Harper

The face of the future of Major League Baseball: Bryce Harper

By: David Washington

There’s never been a lack of young talent in baseball. Ken Griffey Jr. Alex Rodriguez. Justin Upton. All baseball prodigies. All number one overall picks. All current (or in the case of Griffey, recent) superstars. And all of them will soon be overshadowed by a kid named Bryce Harper.

If you’ve followed prospects in baseball, then the mere mention of Bryce Harper probably already has you salivating. If not, then let me introduce you to the future of baseball, Mr. Bryce Harper. Harper has been called (by Sports Illustrated) the Lebron James of baseball, and with good reason. He has the ability to play any position on the baseball diamond (including catcher) and has an excellent batting eye.  Scouts claim that he was more developed physically and talent wise at the age of sixteen than all three of the aforementioned prodigies were at 18. I hear the voices now: “More developed than even surefire hall of famers Junior and A-Rod two years earlier? Please tell me more Mr. Washington.” I’d be glad to.

The seventeen year old Harper carries 205 pounds of solid muscle on his 6 foot 2 frame and has the physical attributes that most men would kill for. Despite never truly playing pitcher, to preserve his arm and allow him to bat on a daily basis, he’s recorded a 96 mile per hour fastball. His speed around the bases is extremely impressive and often allows him to steal bases on wild pitches. And his power… Well his power is what truly makes Harper a gem. His power is some of the most impressive that major baseball has EVER seen. In 2009, as a sixteen year old high school sophomore, he hit a home run out of Tropicana Field. The distance of the long ball? A Tropicana field record 502 feet. Let me repeat, a sixteen year old set the record for the distance of a home run out of a professional baseball stadium. As if that wasn’t enough, as a 15 year old high school freshman, Harper hit a 570 foot bomb out of his high school baseball diamond. 570 feet. Some of the greatest sluggers of all time would have loved to hit a 570 foot jack in batting practice during the prime of their careers, and Bryce Harper was able to do it at the tender age of 15. Let me give you a moment to comprehend that and pick your jaw up off the ground. You good? Good, I’ll continue.

As a 17 year old, after receiving his GED and forgoing his last two years of high school, Harper enrolled into the College of Southern Nevada to attain eligibility for the 2010 MLB draft and also to face stiffer competition. This doesn’t mean that his production slowed however, as in 66 games he hit 31 bombs, 98 RBIs while holding a .443 batting average and a .987 slugging percentage. All of that using a wooden bat. High school fluke? Harper answered that question with an emphatic “NO”.

Not only is Harper physically gifted and extremely talented, but he is a kid who realizes his potential and is extremely ambitious. “I know I’m going to make it there” Harper once stated. He is also extremely aware that the position that he enjoys won’t be the position that will maximize his ability. So, while he has a natural affinity and attraction to the catcher position, Harper will adapt and allow himself to be moved to the outfield to prolong his career and prevent injuries. Harper has even claimed that he believes he could be one of the greatest players in the game of baseball if he puts his mind to it. Intelligent, confident, media friendly, and determined to become one of the all time greats. That’s a person that you would love to represent your organization.

Just the other day, Harper was drafted #1 overall by the Washington Nationals. By the end of the year, Harper will almost certainly make his professional debut in the low minors for the Nationals and truly begin to make his mark on baseball. Now, Mr. Harper has quite lofty expectations to live up to. With rookie pitching phenom Stephen Strasburg well on his way to stardom (14 k’s in 7 innings in his ML debut last night) the Nats have cornerstone pieces to building a winner of a franchise for years to come. When, note that I say not if but WHEN, Bryce Harper meets and exceeds everyone’s expectations, Baseball may very well have its very first billion dollar contract. That’s a lot of zeros. You Ready for It? Bryce Harper is. 

The Nightcap

The Nightcap-Like a dry martini...

-Don’t sleep on the other Laker going for ring number five-
      Kobe is going to get his night in and night out and Gasol in all of his euro glory will continue to be the poster child for potential Speed Stick deodorant commercials. But soon enough Ron Artest may have to lend his Tru Warrior label to the true Tru Warrior, Derek Fisher.   We should all know by now what Fisher brings to the table. It is never flashy or sexy, but his game is so representative of what I am sure every other team in the league wants from their starting point guard. Tough, smart, strong willed, determined, heart…the clichés could go on and on. In Fishers case, they are never exaggerated.  His three-on-one break in the waning seconds of the game tonight in which he drew a foul and sunk the shot for a three-point play summed up all that you need to know. This isn't new news by any means, its just worth noticing every time you watch him play.

- Stephen Strasburg makes MLB debut-
      He lived up to the hype in his first major league start. Strasburg set a Nationals team record with 14 strikeouts, and fell just one K short of setting the MLB record for strikeouts in a players first career start. Impressive is an understatement. Mark this day down ladies and gents. This debut will go down as the most anticipated in MLB history.  The fact that it all went according to plan was just the cherry on top. Although the Nationals may cap his innings around 100, no one should be surprised if he is able to produce an ERA under 3 from here on out. He is THAT good.


- Munchie Run: Courtesy Rotoworld.com-
Rookie WR Golden Tate was caught trespassing inside a Top Pot donut shop in Bellevue, Washington at 3:00 a.m. Saturday morning. Profootballtalk.com confirms the report.

Tate and a friend apparently got the munchies after hitting the bar scene. The only problem was that the donut shop was closed while they were scarfing down breakfast. Tate managed to escape arrest, receiving a "trespass warning" instead. While he should also avoid league discipline, he won't be so fortunate when it comes to rookie hazing at training camp. Jun. 8 - 2:26 pm et

- A Flyers cheerleader made the front page of the Chicago Tribune -

-Take Note. What not to do when squatting and where not to sit when judging a squat competition-

-The Nightcap will not be a nightly installment. However, It will cover loose tidbits of whatever we want...whenever we want it. Until next time...GOODNIGHT NOW!!

-MJK

The Bigger, The Better

A Texas-USC nightcap could become commonplace with a proposed "Super-conference" taking shape

Written By: David Washington

Expansion of the Big Ten and Pac 10 conferences, at the cost of the dissolution of the Big 12 Conference, can solve some of the greatest problems in college football. “What?!?! How dare David make such a bold and outlandish statement!” Yes, I do dare, and if you will hear me out for a moment, I believe that you too will be convinced that expansion will help, not harm, the state of college football.

Money, Money, Money

It’s the real reason why expansion is so often spurred on. Dreams of opening new football markets and making millions more in profits, while also letting more teams in to share the wealth are often the top priorities of many school Athletic Directors. With the possibility of expansion, these dreams can become reality. By expanding the Big Ten Conference and adding at least Missouri and Nebraska (as well as possibly Notre Dame, Syracuse, Pittsburgh, and Rutgers), traditional Big Ten powerhouses such as Ohio State and Michigan can simply watch as their coffers fill with money. The Big Ten network would also cater to people in the states of Missouri and Nebraska while also leading to the very likely probability of two more bowl berths every year (more bowl berths mean more money for every team in the conference). 

If the Big Ten were able to snag the Fighting Irish as well, then the wallets of the teams will overflow with money (Notre Dame is probably the biggest cash cow in all of college football). Though Notre Dame would miss not receiving all of its money from its bowl berths, as it is shared amongst the teams in the league, the guarantee of some money every year will no doubt be adequate compensation. The Pac 10 (or should I say Pac 16 if it is able to add Texas, Texas Tech, Texas A&M, Colorado, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State) would be in for a similar scenario as far as money goes. Why not help everyone get richer? With the only true casualties of this growth being the less profitable Big 12 Teams (Baylor, Iowa State, Kansas State, and Kansas) then why shouldn’t the true money makers of the Big 12 look out for number one? Chances are, the four remaining teams in the Big 12 will be split between the Mountain West and the Big East conferences, both of which could use some former top conference teams to legitimize their existence.

The Playoff Problem

It seems like every year in college football a situation arises that makes people yell and scream for a playoff system. Multiple teams going unbeaten often cause this and when BCS time comes a knocking, one or more of those teams has to sit out and watch as the rest of them duke it out for National Championship supremacy. By expanding the conferences, it will greatly increase the degree of difficulty for the schedules of all the top teams and make it so that the few (if any) that do go unbeaten will truly deserve their spot in a BCS bowl game. This will weed out the weak from the strong and make it clear that some teams never even deserved to be in the discussion for a possible playoff and some are the real deal. Imagine it now, an unbeaten USC team and an unbeaten Texas team going at it in the Pac 16 Championship for a spot in the national title game. Also, the presence of Nebraska and Mizzou in the Big Ten will help to validate an unbeaten Big Ten team’s record. Unbeaten teams that deserve to be unbeaten? Two teams that have truly faced a perilous gauntlet and come out unscathed to face each other in the national title game? Sound too good to be true? It COULD be a reality very soon.

Quality of Recruiting

For the smaller teams in the big conferences (I’m looking at you Washington St., U of Arizona, Indiana, and Minnesota) as well as new additions (Colorado, Syracuse, Notre Dame), this expansion is truly a blessing. Being in a big name conference makes it possible to pick up a number of top tier recruits as the best recruits often want to play on the big stage against the best teams. The better the conference, the more likely recruits are willing to go to the second and third tier schools in the conference just to play against teams like Michigan and UCLA. Though teams like Notre Dame have never had any problem picking up recruits, every year there’s a few that are swayed away to an Ohio State or USC with the promise of being in a premiere football conference with a championship to win. 

Helping Out The Little Guy

Though it seems like Baylor, Kansas, Kansas State, and Iowa State are getting the raw end of the deal, this expansion could very well help them out as well. By letting them go from a Big 12 where they have little to no chance to compete in (I really like Baylor’s improvements the past few years, but seriously? They aren’t gonna challenge Texas any time soon) to a conference that they can actually make some noise in. The Big East or Mountain West would love to greet Baylor and Kansas into the fold to strengthen the schedules of all of their teams, while Baylor and Kansas would (in the long run) appreciate being with teams more suited towards their level of play. The addition of a former Big 12 team to the Mountain West or Big East conference will also ensure that, should a Boise State or West Virginia go undefeated, the school will truly deserve a spot in a BCS game. And who knows? Maybe by being put into a division that they have a chance in, Baylor can get back to a bowl game (where they haven’t been since 1994). Getting back to a bowl game means getting back to bowl money, something that I’m sure Baylor has been needing to do for over a decade.

College football traditionalists may still scream “Blasphemy!” when the topic of conference expansion is brought up. But if college football wants to solve some of the biggest problems that it currently has, all thing must be considered.  Even teams like Baylor and Kansas, which will be left out of the two newly expanded conferences, will stand to gain from it. So, though the transition from our present day conferences to “Super-conferences” may not exactly be clean, it will be necessary to bring forth a new age in college football. An age where bigger is better and the best truly play the best…So, without any further ado, let the era of Super-conferences begin!

Putting the Pac-10 on Trial

A Baylor versus Washington State rivalry would be like watching an episode of South Park. Hysterical and politically incorrect.

Putting the Pac-10 on Trial.

How would the Pac-10’s planned expansion hold up in a court of law? Let me show you….

By: Laz Jackson

Bailiff: “All Rise!!”

The ambience in the courtroom is electric. Some can’t believe it. The Pac-10? On trial? For what?

“Court is now in session, the Honorable Judge Jackson presiding.”

Judge: “This is case #532401, The People of College Football Nation vs. The Pac-10. On the charges of Conspiracy to commit Grand Larceny and Conspiracy to Commit Murder, Pac-10, how do you plead?”

Pac-10: “Grand Larceny? Murder? Who were we going to do this to?”

Judge: “The Big Twelve, Pac-10. The Big Twelve. How do you plead?”

The Pac-10, shaken after the reading of the charges, attempts to look confident.

P10: “We plead not guilty, your honor.”

J:”The defendant has entered a plea of not guilty. You can all be seated. Prosecution, call your first witness.”

Prosecution: “The Prosecution calls The Big East Conference to the stand.”

The Big East rises and walks to the witness chair. Three very large scars are visible on The Big East’s face, and the jury recoils a little at the sight. The Big East is sworn in.”

Prosecution: Big East, you were attacked by the ACC in 2005, were you not?

Big East: “Yes.”

P: “Do you know what the ACC was after?”

BE: “Yes. They were after the University of Miami, Virginia Tech, and Boston College.”

P: “They were successful in this attack, correct?”

BE: *sniffles* “Yes, yes they were.”

P: “How did you recover after such a vicious attack?”

BE: “I… I was forced to add Conference USA teams. The doctors say that I will live, but that I’ll never have the same quality of life that I had before. Never.”

P: “And… how has your quality of life been affected since the attack?”

BE: “My life has been mediocre.” *sniffles* “It’s been medio…” *Breaks down crying* “It’s been TERRIBLE!!! I used to BE somebody… now all I have is Pitt over UNC in the Mieneke Car Care Bowl. Do you know what that’s like? DO YOU?”

P: “No, I don’t, Big East, and I am so sorry for your loss... Thank you, Big East.”

As the Prosecution rests for the moment, the Defense gives the Big East a moment to compose themselves.

Defense: “Big East… I, too, sympathize with you. But isn’t it true that Miami, BC, and Virginia Tech were dying to leave anyway?”

P: “OBJECTION!”

J: “Overruled. Big East, answer the question.”

BE: “Well… I cannot speculate on the mindset of traitors.”

D: “That’s ok. I’ll do it for you.” *Whips out a file folder* “I present Exhibit A: A formal letter of complaint from the University of Miami to you, dated 1999, outlining some of their problems with you. Do you recall this letter?”

BE: “I do.”

D: “Did you address and of the concerns the University presented in this letter?”

BE: “Well, we try not to prioritize one University over another…”

D: “DID. YOU. ADDRESS. THE. CONCERNS?”

BE: *Hangs head* “No, no I did not.”

D: “So your own negligence brought about your attack?”

P: “OBJECTION!”

D: “Withdrawn. Nothing further, your honor.”

The Big East steps down, looking a little rattled by the Defense’s presentation of the letter. The Prosecution rises.

J: “Next witness, prosecution?”

P: “Prosecution calls The Mountain West Conference to the stand.”

The Mountain West conference swaggers into the witness chair. Younger than the Big East, the Mountain West looks equally happy to be in the courtroom and eager to show that he belongs there. After being sworn in…

P: “Mountain West, you knew about the alleged conspiracy to murder the Big 12, didn’t you?”

Mountain West: “ I did.”

P: “You knew that THAT organization, in THAT chair, *vigorously points to Pac-10 in the defendant’s chair* was planning to brutally rob and kill the Big 12, correct?”

D: “OBJECTION! Asked and Answered.”

J: “Sustained. Get to the point, Council.”

P: “Mountain West… why didn’t you say anything? Why not make some attempt to defend your neighbor conference? I remind you that you are under oath.”

MW: “I didn’t say anything because… I was in on it.”

The courtroom seems to contract from the gasping from the gallery. The Prosecutor slyly smiles.

P: “What do you mean, ‘In on it’?”

MW: “The defendant and I had a deal. He gets the big names, a new TV network, whatever. I get the leftovers, but with those leftovers comes legitimacy. No one would look down on the conference who swallowed a third of the Big 12.”

P: “Thank you, Mountain West.”

The Prosecution strides to his side, confident he just put a major cut into the defense’s armor. The Defense quickly rises to cross-examine.

D: “Mountain West, if you are ‘in on it’, as you say, why are you in the witness stand and not sitting next to my client?”

MW: “The prosecution offered me immunity against another trial for my participation in this one.”

D: “And what was your part in the alleged conspiracy?”

MW: “Just to keep my head down and my mouth shut. If I did that, your client promised me a seat at the big boy table when it all went down.”

D: “Promised?”

MW: “Well… Promised is a strong word.”

D: “What word would you use?”

MW: “ Your client strongly hinted I’d get a say.”

D: “Could it be that my client couldn’t promise you anything because there was NO such conspiracy?”

P: “OBJECTION!! Speculation.”

J: “Sustai-“

D: “I’ll withdraw the question, your honor. Mountain West, did you KNOW that after this alleged conspiracy, that you would obtain the remaining wealth of the Big 12? Did you definitively know that?”

MW: “No. I couldn’t know that for certain. But your client did promise me-“

D: “Could THAT be the real reason you’re testifying against my client? You’re afraid? AFRAID he’s allegedly going to screw you out of your ‘legitimacy’?”

P: “OBJECTION! Relevance?”

J: “Overru-“

D: “I’ll withdraw the question, your honor.”

J: “But I was going to…”

D: “I know, your honor. Thank you. No further questions, your honor.”

J: “Mountain West, you may step down.”

The Mountain West conference does step down, glaring at the Defense on his way back to his seat.

P: “The Prosecution rests, your honor.”

J: “Alright then, Defense, call your first witness.”

D: “The Defense calls Baylor University to the Stand.”

Baylor University rises in a cheap three-piece suit that doesn’t quite fit him right. He flashes a smile to the jury as he is sworn in.

D: “Baylor, have you ever spoken to my client about defecting?”

Baylor University: “Never.”

D: “But you’re a member of the Big 12 AND a Texas University! Surely, if there was an acquisition going on, you would know about it?”

BU: “I’ve never spoken to your client. I know nothing about any alleged ‘acquisition’.”

D: “Nothing?”

BU: “Nothing.”

D: *Turns to judge* “Nothing further, your honor.”

The Defense looks confident going back, until he sees the look on the Prosecution’s face. Is there something he missed? Was he too quick?

P: “Baylor?”

BU: “Yes?”

P: “Is it… Is it true that you are the ‘redheaded stepchild’ of Texas Football?”

D: “OBJECTION! Relevance?”

P: “Trust me, your honor, this has a point.”

J: “I’ll allow it, but this had better go somewhere fast, Council.”

P: “Thank you, your honor.” *Turns to Baylor* “Baylor?”

BU: “I wouldn’t say we’re the ‘redheaded stepchild’, no.”

P: “When was the last time you won the Big 12?”

BU: “Well, we only joined in 1996, so we’ve never actually WON the Big 12 Title, but I’m sure there are other schools-“

P:”I see. How would you describe your record against your fellow Big 12 teams?”

BU: “…Poor.”

P: “Poor! Excellent word choice. So, my question to you is, if, if, IF there was a conspiracy to rob the Big 12 blind and leave it for dead… why would anyone tell you?”

Baylor whips a pleading look at the Defense, who is shaking his head in his hand.

BU: “I’m important! I matter! I’m a part of Texas Football Tradition!!”

P: “Keep telling yourself that. Nothing fur-“

BU: *Smugly* “The Texas Legislature says I’m important! THEY want me in!”

P: “Excuse me?”

BU: “Uh, Uh, Uh… Nothing.”

P: “I will remind you that you are under oath. WHAT does the Texas Legislature want you in on?”

Baylor realizes he’s said too much and whips another pleading look at the Defense, who is at this point hiding his head in his hands.

P: “He can’t help you right now. Answer. The. Question.”

BU: “The Texas Legislature… wants me to be a part of the plan.”

P: *Smiling* “Would that be the plan you’ve never heard of and know nothing about? The plan to rob the Big 12, you included, by the Pac-10?

BU: *Slinking down on the stand* “Yes.”

P: “Nothing further, your honor.”

Baylor is led off the stand, sobbing. The Defense and the Pac-10 are both shaking their heads in disbelief.

J: “Defense? DEFENSE!”

D: “Yes, your honor?”

J: “Your next witness?”

D: *Still Shellshocked* “Right… the Defense calls the Big Ten to the stand.”

The Big Ten is a grizzled old man with a distinct air of defiance around him. He looks like a man who could give you a friendly back-slap with one hand and choke-slam you with the other in the same breath. He’s sworn in.

D: “Big Ten, you have plans to acquire two teams from the Big 12, correct?

Big Ten: “That’s correct.”

D: “So what is the difference between my clients’ alleged conspiracy and your plans?”

BT: “We asked more nicely than your client. We’ve made our plans known for months. The public is comfortable with the idea of our plans coming to fruition. We’ve won in the court of public opinion.”

D: “Did you know of my clients’ alleged conspiracy?”

BT: “We heard rumblings. To tell you the truth, I think that your client’s alleged plan is good for the supposed victim, the Big 12. Sure, the Big 12 will die, but its assets will go to much better use in my hands, or the hands of your client.”

D: “So you’re insinuating the death of the Big 12 is a good thing?”

BT: “Yes. As the oldest conference, I have to say, my years of wisdom would do nothing but help the assets of the Big 12. They would be in larger, steadier hands.”

D: “Thank you, Big Ten.” *To Prosecution* “Your witness.”

The Prosecution steadies himself. He knows the defense made a nice comeback from the Baylor Blunder, and he’ll have to tread carefully to keep the jury on his side.

P: “Big Ten, what are your acquisition plans, exactly?”

BT: “We’d like the University of Nebraska and the University of Missouri.”

P: “That’s it?”

BT: “That’s it.”

P: “ You have your own cable network, correct?”

BT: “That’s correct.”

P: “If the Big 12 were murdered by the defendant-“

D: “OBJECTION!”

J: “Sustained.”

P: “… If you were to acquire the aforementioned Universities, you’d gain access to two brand-new television markets, correct?”

BT: ”…Correct.”

P: “So you’d stand to make a nice profit from the… dissolution of the Big 12, correct?”

D: “OBJECTION!”

J: “Overruled.”

P: “Big Ten?”

BT: “…that’s correct.”

P: “Nothing further, your honor.”

J: “We’ll have a short recess, then we’ll hear closing arguments from both sides.”

During the recess, both sides like their chances. The Big Ten, the defense’s star witness, held, and the defense knows their Mountain West cross was good. The Prosecution, on the other hand, has the Baylor Blunder on their side, but doesn’t want to belabor the point to the jury. As everyone files back in for closing, the electricity returns to the atmosphere.

J: “Prosecution?”

P: “Thank you, your honor.” *Stands, straightens tie* “It is CLEAR that the Pac-10 was, and still may be, trying to rob and kill the Big 12. We know WHY, as well; it’s for the usual reasons, money, power, respect. You heard the Big Ten makes the assertation that the Big 12’s assets, their teams, would be better served in their experienced hands. I’m almost positive the defense feels the same way. And maybe that is true. But even if it is, that does not, DOES NOT, condone the looting and murder of a conference. The conferences are like a family. And if a family kills one brother, only to shelter and spoil his widow and child, does that make the murder any better? No! It doesn’t. And this isn’t right, either. It’s. Not. Right.

The Prosecution, giving one final look to the jury, walks slowly, yet purposefully, back to his chair. The Defense rises.

D: “The Prosecution says the conferences are a family. This is true. But this is NOT the murder of a brother, the loss of a close family member. This is comparable to letting a cousin die, of natural causes, and dividing his estate so it can be looked after. My client is not out to rob and kill the Big 12. My client merely wishes to take care of his cousins assets. To make his nieces and nephews, who no longer have a father, rich and successful. To take pride in the accomplishments of the children, while asking for none of the credit. If the family can further the accomplishments of the children, shouldn’t it be allowed to? Let my clients’ family; his experienced, well-versed, highly competitive, successful family, take care of the kids. Even the redheaded stepchildren.”

The Defense, confident in his extension and reversal of the Prosecution’s family metaphor, rests. The judge gathers himself, then instructs the jury to deliberate…

Deliberation lasts for days. Heated arguments abound, and both sides are wary of a mistrial. But, after 6 days of waiting, we’re back in the courtroom.

The jury files into their seats, looking weary and tired. The foreman hands sheet of paper to the bailiff, who hands it to the judge, who looks at it, then hands it to the bailiff to give to the foreman. A buzz starts to build in the back of the room, but is quickly silenced by the judge…

J: “Will the Defendant please rise?”

The Pac-10 gets to his feet. He’s heard everything from an acquittal to the unthinkable in these last few days, and is ready to know his ultimate fate.

“Has the jury reached a verdict?”

Foreman: “We have, your honor.”

J: “Let’s hear it.”

F: “In the case of The People of College Football Nation vs. The Pac-10, on the charge of Conspiracy to commit Murder, we find the defendant, the Pac-10… Not Guilty.”

The Pac-10 lets out a huge sigh of relief, and looks thankfully at the Defense. The Defense isn’t as happy though, he senses something wrong, he senses it’s not quite over yet…

 “On the charge of Conspiracy to Grand Larceny, we find the defendant… Guilty.”

The Pac-10 looks as if he’s been shot. Whipping his head to the Defense, he sees the Defense gritting his teeth and grabbing the table as if it letting go will kill him. What did he miss? What did he do? What did he not do? How could this happen…

“The Defendant is sentenced to watch Baylor-Washington State play awful, awful football every time he closes his eyes.”

Judge: “The jury is dismissed, and this case is adjourned.”

Well, I laid down MY sentencing, but is there room for a retrial? Let me know in the comments below.  


Find Laz and much more of his work on sports and life at The Blackboard- www.lazchancemsu.wordpress.com