This is a five year old story from ESPN about a North Carolina high school student who scored 61 points when he was a senior in honor of his grandfather who was murdered at the age of 61 a few days before. If you like having your heart strings tugged at, give it a chance, it's touching.
If you're a big basketball fan--this is a story you need to see, and you'll know why after you get to the 20 second mark.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Fun With Drunk Fans
Yeah, it's a slow day here at the Reach Blog Offices. Here's one of my all time favorite moments involving drunk fans. It takes place at Turner Field in Atlanta during a rainout sometime last season. As soon as the video begins, you know where it's headed and it's marvelous. Hope you like.
Derek Fisher's Foul And Vanessa Bryant's Foul Mouth
Quite an ending in San Antonio last night. Brent Barry's three pointer was off the mark at the last second and whether or not you thought Fisher fouled him (he did), the Lakers have a 3-1 lead heading back to Los Angeles on Thursday night. A win on Thursday and the NBA has half of it's dream matchup set (if only the league could do something about those unpredictable Pistons).It has been an interesting couple of days for Kobe Bryant. Last week, a rumor emerged claiming that he was cheating on his wife with a Laker Girl who mysteriously was fired from her job (lawsuit?). This week, along with a potential birth in the NBA Finals, Kobe's has to deal with his wife Vanessa who is...shall we say irritated with ESPN The Magazine writer Laura Lane for a piece she wrote about Vanessa. The article was--gasp--about Vanessa Bryant's outfit and how she spends her time with her kids (how dare Lane!).
So Vanessa Bryant spots Lane at the Lakers game Sunday and lets her have it. The follwing is directly from Lane's blog:
Last night, I got cussed out by Vanessa Bryant. Seriously. At the Lakers game. In front of her kids. In front of the Lakers locker room. It was awesome. She is mad about an article I wrote where I mentioned her. That means one of two things - she either reads the ESPN blog or she has herself on Google alerts. Both are fantastic.
So as I’m walking out of the Lakers locker room after some post-game interviews with the players, I pass Vanessa, who is sitting outside the locker room as usual with her two girls.
“Laura!” she screams (yes, she apparently knows my name). “F--- you! You f------ b----!”
“Excuse me?” I say, completely baffled as I look around me to see if there is someone else named Laura. No, there’s not.
Her daughters – ages 5 and 2 – are sitting next to her on the bench looking at their mom as she screams.
“F--- you! How dare you write about me and my daughters and their schedule! You didn’t say you were writing an article! F--- you! You f------ bitch. You have no journalism ethics! F--- you! You b---- - ”
I just stare at her. I’ve heard many stories about her from reporters, but this was unbelievable. Two of my friends from the LA Times told me how she cussed out one of them last season, because he said hi to her daughter. “Join the club, this means you’ve arrived,” said one reporter when word spread of my run-in with Vanessa. “She’s insane,” said another. “Everyone knows it.”
So as I’m walking out of the Lakers locker room after some post-game interviews with the players, I pass Vanessa, who is sitting outside the locker room as usual with her two girls.
“Laura!” she screams (yes, she apparently knows my name). “F--- you! You f------ b----!”
“Excuse me?” I say, completely baffled as I look around me to see if there is someone else named Laura. No, there’s not.
Her daughters – ages 5 and 2 – are sitting next to her on the bench looking at their mom as she screams.
“F--- you! How dare you write about me and my daughters and their schedule! You didn’t say you were writing an article! F--- you! You f------ bitch. You have no journalism ethics! F--- you! You b---- - ”
I just stare at her. I’ve heard many stories about her from reporters, but this was unbelievable. Two of my friends from the LA Times told me how she cussed out one of them last season, because he said hi to her daughter. “Join the club, this means you’ve arrived,” said one reporter when word spread of my run-in with Vanessa. “She’s insane,” said another. “Everyone knows it.”
It's a good thing that Lane didn't bring up anything too personal...like how she got the $4.3 million purple ring or the world's only automatic Lamborghini. That might have really set her off.
If Only Will Ferrell Movies Were Two Minutes Long
I'll be the first to admit, Will Ferrell movies have pretty much sucked since "Anchorman" ("Stranger Than Fiction" was a movie Will Ferrell happened to be in). "Talladega Nights" started this trend of sports flicks for Ferrell which more or less follow the same formula: Will Ferrell's character has an oversized ego, he wears funny outfits, spits out a catchphrase or two, throw in a scene with a wild animal, roll credits. "Blades Of Glory" was one of the longest 90 minutes of my life because both the movie was awful and because I seem to be the only person who doesn't think Jon Heder is funny.
I learned my lesson after "Blades of Glory"--don't pay $8.50 to see a Will Ferrell movie in theatres. "Semi-Pro" is available today at Blockbuster so I'll see it at some point I'm sure, but the reason for this post is the new trailer for "Step Brothers". "Step Brothers" is the new comedy starring Ferrell and John C. Reilly (does anyone remember Reilly was nominated for an Oscar?!). The one thing Ferrell movies have going for them is the trailers. They always seem to be funnier than the actual movie, which I guess is the point of trailers--to sell you on the movie. But I'm not fooled. The trailer makes me laugh, the movie will make me want to hit someone. So, I'll just show you the trailer--just promise you won't shell out $8.50 for the ticket when the movie opens. Do we have a deal?
By the way, this trailer is NSFW (once again: Not Safe For Work, since I've gotten complaints from people who don't know what that means--it means they say fuck a lot in this trailer, so don't play it while you're at work).
I learned my lesson after "Blades of Glory"--don't pay $8.50 to see a Will Ferrell movie in theatres. "Semi-Pro" is available today at Blockbuster so I'll see it at some point I'm sure, but the reason for this post is the new trailer for "Step Brothers". "Step Brothers" is the new comedy starring Ferrell and John C. Reilly (does anyone remember Reilly was nominated for an Oscar?!). The one thing Ferrell movies have going for them is the trailers. They always seem to be funnier than the actual movie, which I guess is the point of trailers--to sell you on the movie. But I'm not fooled. The trailer makes me laugh, the movie will make me want to hit someone. So, I'll just show you the trailer--just promise you won't shell out $8.50 for the ticket when the movie opens. Do we have a deal?
By the way, this trailer is NSFW (once again: Not Safe For Work, since I've gotten complaints from people who don't know what that means--it means they say fuck a lot in this trailer, so don't play it while you're at work).
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Atlas
Reason #1 I'm bummed about missing out on Lollapalooza this year: Battles. This New York City band sounds like they would put on a great live show. The band itself is made up of members of Helmet, Don Caballero, and Storm and Stress. Their first album "Mirrored" is their first material to have lyrics, as their previous EPs have only been instrumentals.
The music video is their album cover come to life. It reminds me of the future scenes in the movie "The Fountain"--but with an experimental rock band and without a script that makes me want to mash my head against a brick wall for six hours (damnit that movie was awful--I slept through the last hour of it and STILL feel like my time was wasted). I'm rambling. Enjoy "Atlas" by Battles...
The music video is their album cover come to life. It reminds me of the future scenes in the movie "The Fountain"--but with an experimental rock band and without a script that makes me want to mash my head against a brick wall for six hours (damnit that movie was awful--I slept through the last hour of it and STILL feel like my time was wasted). I'm rambling. Enjoy "Atlas" by Battles...
Woody Harrelson To Surf Hungry
Get your Woody Harrelson fix while you still can. The actor, and marijuana spokesman, plans on killing himself just as soon as he gets a break in his schedule. Harrelson plans on traveling to an island and starve himself for 40 day. Did we mention he's a marijuana spokesperson? Does this really seem like a good idea--actually, does this even seem possible? Celebitchy.com has all the details:
"Woody Harrelson plans to live on a remote island and eat nothing for 40 days - to see how the experience affects his brain.
The actor, 46, will go ahead with the experiment as soon as he gets a break in his work schedule.
‘I’ve always wanted to do it,’ he says.
‘I know it’s going to be really hard. But can you imagine it? Eating nothing for 40 days? Swimming and surfing every day in a remote place? Where does the mind go?’"
The actor, 46, will go ahead with the experiment as soon as he gets a break in his work schedule.
‘I’ve always wanted to do it,’ he says.
‘I know it’s going to be really hard. But can you imagine it? Eating nothing for 40 days? Swimming and surfing every day in a remote place? Where does the mind go?’"
Call me crazy, but you need energy to surf or swim--otherwise, as logic would have it, you would be too weak and you would drown (imagine how that would effect the brain).
Joakim Noah Surprises No One
True story: I was working the second job Sunday night when someone who knew I was a Bulls fan told me that a Chicago Bull was arrested and they found marijuana. My first, last, and only thought was Noah. Actually, if you've seen an interview with Noah, this will probably come as no surprise to you (see video below), in fact, his father Yannick Noah admitted a few years ago that he too smokes the grass.Apparently, Noah was seen by police in Gainsville (his former college town) drinking out of a plastic cup on the street. They found an amber liquid that was found to be alcoholic. After a search at the police station they found the weed.
Since Noah lead the Florida Gators to back to back National Championships, he is held up on a god like level, so it really makes you wonder if something else happened that isn't being reported. I mean, I went to the University of Minnesota, I've been caught with an open container of alcohol on the streets and even though I was a nobody at the school, I never got arrested--I just had to pour it out. So, perhaps there's more to this story than we're hearing now.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Pork And Beans
For those of you who were bumping around You Tube yesterday, you probably came across this music video for Weezer's new song "Pork and Beans". The world premier of the video was on You Tube. The video is quite simply an orgy of You Tube celebrities...hence the debut on You Tube.
The song is also a throwback to old school Weezer from the "Blue Album" or "Pinkerton" era. I don't want to spoil the video if you haven't seen it yet so without further b.s...enjoy Weezer's "Pork and Beans"
The song is also a throwback to old school Weezer from the "Blue Album" or "Pinkerton" era. I don't want to spoil the video if you haven't seen it yet so without further b.s...enjoy Weezer's "Pork and Beans"
NBA Mock Draft 1
So now we know the order of the lottery so it seems like the right time to get started with the Mock Drafts. This is a very basic lottery mock draft for now. I'll get more detailed with each pick soon, but wanted to get this one out there for now. A few things I'd like to mention: I think the Timberwolves should go with OJ Mayo at #3, but I think they will go Brook Lopez. Danilo Gallinari seems to be destined for New York because of his relationship with Mike DiAntoni, however if Mayo somehow falls to the Knicks it would make things interesting for them since it could bring legitimate star power back to the Garden and you know the fans would be impatient with Gallinari. Anyhow, best guess at this point in time:1. Chicago Bulls- Derrick Rose, PG Memphis
2. Miami Heat- Michael Beasley, PF Kansas State
3. Minnesota Timberwolves- Brook Lopez, C Stanford
4. Seattle Supersonics- Jerryd Bayless, PG Arizona
5. Memphis Grizzlies- O.J. Mayo, SG USC
6. New York Knicks- Danilo Gallinari, SF Italy
7. Los Angeles Clippers- Anthony Randolph, SF/PF LSU
8. Milwaukee Bucks- Eric Gordon, SG Indiana
9. Charlotte Bobcats- Kevin Love, C UCLA
10. New Jersey Nets- DeAndre Jordan, C Texas A&M
11. Indiana Pacers- DJ Augustin, PG Texas
12. Sacramento Kings- Russell Westbrook, PG UCLA
13. Portland Trailblazers- Joe Alexander, SF West Virginia
14. Golden State Warriors- Darrell Arthur, PF Kansas
Things To Post On A 3 Day Weekend
Ok, truth be told I'm not a fan of lacrosse or softball. Wouldn't you know it? That's about all that's on TV for sports today. So what can I do? Naturally post this classic video of John Stossel getting slapped by a professional wrestler. I can't imagine many people are on the site today (thank you extended weekend), so I can't feel too guilty about the lack of posts this weekend. Enjoy the Monday off.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Get Myself Into It
How about The Rapture? No, not the end of the world...Although, it brings up sub question--since we're all going to die one day, why not during the rapture? It would be a very unique experience? Or a Zombie Attack? I've always been under the impression that a zombie attack is the worst case scenario imaginable. Think about it, you would be attacked by people you know (your friends?) and they would be trying to eat you...alive. I can't think of a worse situation.
On the other hand, my buddy JV claims that he would rather be attacked by zombies than be in a situation like in "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" where a psycho is chasing you with a chainsaw and a mask made of people's faces.
See, in the end, I think the trump card is that "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" isn't real, whereas zombies are potentially real.
I guess the main point of this post is two thing:
1. If gas gets higher than $5.00/gallon, I'm going to lose my shit.
2. If you only do one thing today--make sure it's enjoy the music video for The Rapture's "Get Myself Into It".
On the other hand, my buddy JV claims that he would rather be attacked by zombies than be in a situation like in "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" where a psycho is chasing you with a chainsaw and a mask made of people's faces.
See, in the end, I think the trump card is that "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" isn't real, whereas zombies are potentially real.
I guess the main point of this post is two thing:
1. If gas gets higher than $5.00/gallon, I'm going to lose my shit.
2. If you only do one thing today--make sure it's enjoy the music video for The Rapture's "Get Myself Into It".
I Suppose That's One Way To Beat The Padres
I found this video over at With Leather. I don't what to say about Albert Pujols. The man is a beast. So much in fact that one might think he took it upon himself to take out the Padres one by one.
We start the carnage off in the top of the 3rd as Prince Albert lines a Chris Young pitch off Young's face (note the irony that Young and Randy Johnson are the only pitchers in the league who would be affected by that line drive as they are both 6'10 or taller). Later that inning as Pujols comes around to score he slides right into Josh Bard's angle and pretty much makes everyone sitting in the first five to ten rows want to throw up. It's ugly. Watch at your own descretion.
This video is both plays in one--so wait until about 3:10 and you'll see the play at the plate.
Seriously, this is impressive. Have you ever seen a batter take out the battery in one half inning?
We start the carnage off in the top of the 3rd as Prince Albert lines a Chris Young pitch off Young's face (note the irony that Young and Randy Johnson are the only pitchers in the league who would be affected by that line drive as they are both 6'10 or taller). Later that inning as Pujols comes around to score he slides right into Josh Bard's angle and pretty much makes everyone sitting in the first five to ten rows want to throw up. It's ugly. Watch at your own descretion.
This video is both plays in one--so wait until about 3:10 and you'll see the play at the plate.
Seriously, this is impressive. Have you ever seen a batter take out the battery in one half inning?
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Rock Box
Here's something everyone should be able to enjoy. I was searching for a video online for today's Music Video Of The Day and I came across this Run D.M.C. classic. This was the first hip hop video to ever be on MTV. Hence the opening minute or so where a crazy professor type is trying to define "Rap Music".
Then, the cheezy 1980's graphics take hold and MTV was never the same again. Also look for a guy playing guitar that looks a lot like one of the original MTV VJ's, JJ Jackson.
Whatever, I'm still in shock over the Bulls winning the lottery last night, so I can't think of anything else to say. Without taking any more of your time, enjoy Run D.M.C.'s "Rock Box"
Then, the cheezy 1980's graphics take hold and MTV was never the same again. Also look for a guy playing guitar that looks a lot like one of the original MTV VJ's, JJ Jackson.
Whatever, I'm still in shock over the Bulls winning the lottery last night, so I can't think of anything else to say. Without taking any more of your time, enjoy Run D.M.C.'s "Rock Box"
Mike Piazza Retires, Nobody Seems To Notice
One story that seemed to not get a whole lot of attention yesterday was the retirement of Mike Piazza retired from Major League Baseball yesterday after a 16 year career that saw him apprear in 12 All Star Games, including a streak of 10 straight seasons. He's also the only catcher to hit for .300, 30 HR, 100 RBIs in six different seasons.
Not too bad for a guy who was drafted in the 62nd round of the 1988 MLB Draft by Tommy Lasorda as a favor to Piazza's father. He will also go down as the greatest catcher to ever play one week for the Florida Marlins.
My favorite memory about Piazza is his appearance on "Married...With Children". I can't find the clip on You Tube for the life of me. Can anyone help me out here?
That Just Happened!
A couple of notes about last night's NBA Draft Lottery:1. My Bulls somehow bucked the odds and landed the #1 pick. I don't know exactly how to react to this. To be honest, it hasn't even sunk in. The team that some publications were picking to win the Eastern Conference this year, had a down year, but somehow landed the first pick? I think I was more excited when we found out the Bulls jumped into the top 3. At that point? Playing with house money. Also, sitting with a few Timberwolves fans, I was hoping they'd land #1 or #2 along with the Bulls. Then, the Wolves landed the #3 pick and I wanted to feel bad at that moment but then I realized: Holy shit, the Bulls are going to get Michael Beasley or Derrek Rose. That thought lasted for all of three seconds before the Heat's logo popped up and then I realized: Holy shit, the Bulls are going to have their choice between Michael Beasley or Derrek Rose!
2. You gotta feel for Timberwolves fans. They seemed to know they wouldn't get the first or second pick before the lottery began. Almost as if just having Kevin McHale in the front office makes you lose all hope in your team. After landing the #3 pick, you can almost see Danilo Gallinari getting fitted for his Timberwolves hat (You might think I'm just pouring salt into the collective wounds of Wolves fans, but Chad Ford thinks it's a distinct possiblity).
3. So Bulls take Beasley/Rose and Miami takes option #2, do both teams make the playoffs next year? I think the Bulls are in (they just had a quirky season) but assuming Wade is healthy and Marion resigns with the Heat? Is it really that far fetched? That could end up being a 7 or 8 seed.
4. Fred Hoiberg's reaction to the Wolves landing at #3 is priceless. The teddy bear he was holding didn't do him any favors (yes, I know the bear was a gift from a sick kid to bring the Wolves good luck, but combine the teddy bear with Hoiberg looking 12 years old--even if you're Wolves fan, you have to find it funny). Don't agree? Go to the 5:33 mark in this video and try and tell me it's not funny.
We'll have much more on the NBA Draft over the next few weeks leading up to the draft. Josh Nguyen will be posting more draft bios and I'll be doing my weekly mock draft starting this week.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Another Lottery That I Will Not Win Anything In
Tonight is the NBA Draft Lottery. If you've never seen the lottery before here's how it breaks down: a bunch of guys affiliated with the NBA teams that missed the playoffs sit in a room while wearing suits and watch an old guy open envelopes that will decide the draft order. Then, in about a month, another old guy will proceed to list names off. And yes, I'll watch both in their entirety (the NBA Draft is one of my biggest--if not my biggest vice in the sporting year). A few times over the last two decades or so there have been a few players that were considered the big prizes of the lottery (meaning they would be the number one overall pick no matter what because they were considered "sure things") like Lebron James, Shaquille O'Neal, Tim Duncan, and Greg Oden last year.Although there are no players considered to be definitive #1 picks the consensus is that Kansas State's Michael Beasley and Memphis point guard Derrek Rose will be the first two picks in either order depending on who drafts.
My Bulls? 1.7% chance of the #1 pick. I would love Rose over Beasley, but I cannot imagine that situation going down. The Bulls seem destined to stay in their place and grab Kosta Koufos.
If you can't wait until tonight, go over to ESPN.com and check out Chad Ford's lottery machine.
Chad Ford's NBA Draft Lottery Machine
Live Game 7 Recap: Hornets-Spurs
Reach can't handle all of the writing all of the time on The Reach Blog. Sometimes he finds jobs that require hard work as opposed to just work. This is one of those times. Josh Nguyen is no stranger to The Reach Blog. You know him as the guy who has been writing NBA Draft Profiles of draft picks. Last night, we wanted to get his running commentary/take on the Hornets-Spurs game 7. EDITOR NOTE: We're still trying to figure out the whole "jump" thing. So we apologize for the long posts we've been having. Should have it figured out in a day or two.So this is my first live game blog. I want to let you inside my mind and what goes on while I watch the game. What a game to pick for my first live blog. Spurs at Hornets game 7. Let’s get into it.
7:32 pm- Pre Game- I love that fact that the Hornets fans stand until their team gets a bucket… Think the Hornets will win in this one (99-96) and I’ve got Peja on a big game… The tune of 23 points… maybe 5 for 8 from 3 point line…
1st Quarter
7:39 pm- 9 to 8 Spurs lead- 7:45 in 1st - Why is it so hard to like the Spurs? They have a bunch of good qualities but still can’t stand them.
7:45 pm- 14- 11 Hornets lead- 5:40 in 1st – David West is a man on a mission… He’s showing no signs of the back injuries, due to a cheap shot. Yes, it was a cheap shot and I hate Rob Horry… The Hornets are doing a great job of drawing Tim Duncan out of the key and onto the perimeter on “D”… David West is 3 for 4 with 6 points in the early minutes of the 1st. It’s going to be a great game.
8:02 pm- 23-20 Spurs lead- End of 1st- What a dumb play by Mano… Why in the Hell would you foul Paul on a half court shot? Smart play by CP3 on the other hand… I love after the shot Mano tried to flop and look as if it wasn’t his fault… So it’s not a foul and they let the Ginobili off the hook… If the Hornets want to win the game they need to pick up the energy level, it is game 7
2nd Quarter
8:09 pm - 25-20 Spurs lead- 10:16 in 2nd- Bench for the Spur are vastly out performing the Hornets right now. They are without a point and Bonzi Wells just missed a wide open lay-up.
8:16 pm- 30-23- Spurs leads- 8:08 in 2nd- What wrong with the Hornets? They are not running and it looks like the Spurs have completely taking they game away. Chris Paul needs to score… The key to containing Tony Parker on offense is making his play defense. Please get the Ball back to David West.
8:28 pm- 37-36 Hornets lead- 3:31 in 2nd- What a run… 12 to Zero unanswered by the Hornets… A little bit of everything… Threes by Mo Pete and Peja… a couple buckets from CP3 to go along with his 4 assist during the run… Only bad note is that CP3 missed 3 free throws. I love the cheesy “NBA Cares” commercials. That’s it, they just make me laugh.
8:39 pm- 51- 42 Hornets lead- End of Half- Spurs answer back with a 15 to 5 run to close out the 1st… The Big 3 for the Spurs have 31 points… I think the Hornets need to pick one the 3 and take him out of the Game. If all 3 are going like this the balance will kill the Hornets… CP3 almost has a Double-Double in the half… 10 pts and 9 ast…
Half Time
8:45 pm- Half Time Notes -I have no clue why they brought Webber into the Half-Time Show… He just sits there and looks real dumb… He’s got a better shot to dunk from the free-throw line then having a career in broadcasting…Oh that’s right if you’re a former athlete you pretty much get handed a job in the booth (Emmitt Smith)… If the Hornets want to win they got to pick up the pace…. The Spurs are doing a great job of keeping the Hornets out of the lane… Peja Watch- 7 pts… I’m a little off but the 3rd will be big.
3rd Quarter
9:09 pm- 57-48- Spurs lead- 6:50 in 3rd- The Spurs are in there groove… They just go at it… steady… and that’s how they win… very rarely do you see them flustered or panicking… As far as the Hornets go, like the effort by Tyson Chandler to save the ball and get an easy lay-up for CP3… Will that give New Orleans some energy?
9:15 pm- 58-48 Hornets lead- 4:26 in 3rd– This may be the most important play in the game...Timmy just pick up his 4th foul and he’s done for the last 4:26 of the 3rd… This is The Hornets chance to get back in it… The game is getting real sloppy…
9:27 pm- 71-56- Spurs lead- End of 3rd- The Hornets look done… The Spurs have taken the life out of the New Orleans… The way San Antonio has played in the 3rd they have the look of a championship team…. I hope that is wrong but you can’t hide from the truth… New Orleans needs an epic performance fro Paul to win this one… I love TNT’s coverage of the NBA but I can’t the commercial breaks… They play only 4 different commercials... It’s either a Charles Barkley T-Mobile spot or that damn Microsoft Zune one with the Vinyl Records for their itunes like downloading site…I’m sick of Sir Charles saying my Fav 5 but I got to admit him saying Footsies is still funny… Finally, who in their right mind would call “The House of Payne” the best cable sitcom of all-time?
4th quarter
9:35pm- 75-64 Hornets lead- 8:32 in 4th- The Hornets want to get back in this one… Came out with a lot of fight… Pargo is finally hitting some buckets… Hornets need to put together a good run and not trade buckets.
9:43 pm- 80-70 Spurs Lead- 5:44 in 4th- Take that Ginobili… How does it feel to have some one flop on you? I love how pissed off he got after Paul put on a performance to draw the foul… Mano needs to run down the court and realize that he leads the league in flops every year.
9:51 pm- 81-77 Hornets lead- 3:10 in 4th- Who needs Chris Paul when you have Pargo… He’s got 13 of the last 17 for New Orleans and the Hornets are back in it… I see a couple Spurs fans in the crowd and one of they had a dress shirt under his Tim Duncan Jersey… Who does that, come on? He obviously bought the jersey in the gift shop right before the game… so just buy a t-shirt to wear under it… Don’t be a douche bag. .
10:00 pm- 85-80 Spurs lead- 50 sec in 4th- Reggie Parker just referenced Wilmer Valderrama (aka Fez, from That 70’s Show) after Tony Parker hit a jumper…Cash- Money was his line… Even though Reggie Miller is an NBA great he just went on the list of former athletes to be handed a broadcasting job. ..
10:07- 91- 82- Spurs Wins- End of Game- So it looks like Lakers v. Spurs in the Western Conference Finals… I’m excited to see that best of 7… Let’s not take anything away from the Hornets who had a great season…. We saw the coronation of a bonafide NBA Superstar in Chris Paul… The Hornets just finished the best season in there 20 year history and the Spurs are off to L.A...Let’s go Kobe.
Hard To Hate The Red Sox After This One...
That headline might be missleading. Don't worry, I'm already looking into firing my headline guy. However, this is your feel good story of the day. Jon Lester no hit the Kansas City Royals last night. Lester has come quite far since August 31, 2006 when he was diagnosed with lymphoma. At the time of the diagnosis, Lester was one of the top prospects in the Red Sox organization. After going through treatments Lester was back on the mound for the Sox on July 23 of last year (doesn't that make you feel bad for calling in sick to work because of an upset stomach a few months back?).On a related note, Jason Varitek was behind the plate last night for Lester's no hitter. This is his Major League record fourth game catching a no hitter. Not a bad night if you're a Red Sox fan.
Do The Evolution
I caught Lollapalooza 2007 in Chicago. Pearl Jam was closing out Sunday night...ah, a weekend binge of music and unproductivity was almost past me. There must've been 200,000 people in Grant Park watching Pearl Jam (or so my buddy Thompson claims, I've always been bad at guessing the jelly beans in the jar and that's really what trying to guess the attendance was like).
So, Pearl Jam finishes one song and Eddie Vedder begins to start talking about BP and Amoco. He decides to continue bashing BP and Amoco talking about how the people in attendance should boycott the company. It was at this point in time that Thompson and I started singing a song about BP-Amoco in our Eddie Vedder voices. High comedy right? Well, it got a whole lot funnier than that when within moments Vedder WAS singing a song titled "Don't go--BP Amoco" at which point we just about lost our heads from laughing. Nothing against Pearl Jam, but it was like some comedy sketch. You don't believe me? I got the video of "BP-Amoco".
So in keeping with the Pearl Jam theme, I thought it time to make one of their videos "Music Video Of The Day". So here you go, enjoy Pearl Jam's "Do The Evolution".
So, Pearl Jam finishes one song and Eddie Vedder begins to start talking about BP and Amoco. He decides to continue bashing BP and Amoco talking about how the people in attendance should boycott the company. It was at this point in time that Thompson and I started singing a song about BP-Amoco in our Eddie Vedder voices. High comedy right? Well, it got a whole lot funnier than that when within moments Vedder WAS singing a song titled "Don't go--BP Amoco" at which point we just about lost our heads from laughing. Nothing against Pearl Jam, but it was like some comedy sketch. You don't believe me? I got the video of "BP-Amoco".
So in keeping with the Pearl Jam theme, I thought it time to make one of their videos "Music Video Of The Day". So here you go, enjoy Pearl Jam's "Do The Evolution".
Monday, May 19, 2008
Come On! Philly Had Rocky!
I saw the headline talking about one city's 100 year title drought and thought, "Another damn Cubs story?! Rub it in our face some more!". I clicked on it and was delighted to find that they wern't talking about the Cubs...but about the city of Philadelphia (Apparently, the 100 years come from adding up all the professional teams seasons since 1983--so I suppose it works).
Anyhow Bryan Armen Graham goes on to list the 100 worst moments in Philadelphia sports since the Sixers won the NBA Finals in 1983. It's an alright read (unless you're a fan of the Sixers, Phillies, Flyers, or Eagles).
Philly's Title Drought Turns 100
Anyhow Bryan Armen Graham goes on to list the 100 worst moments in Philadelphia sports since the Sixers won the NBA Finals in 1983. It's an alright read (unless you're a fan of the Sixers, Phillies, Flyers, or Eagles).
Philly's Title Drought Turns 100
Live From New York...
I've had a chance to catch most of the Saturday Night Live episodes since the stike ended (and most before the strike). This past week however, was one of the funniest episodes of the season. In fact, the entire season has been solid for the most part. I'm not going to go so far as to say SNL is entirely back to full form, but it's not far off. They're missing something--and I can't quite put my finger on what (maybe a better Weekend Update?). A few of the better moments of the show's 33rd season.
1. Digital Shorts: The Digital Shorts might have saved this show all together. "Dick in a Box" and "Lazy Sunday" get all of the attention but the show has had a few gems this season.
2. The "MacGruber" sketches: These sketches (which have now been featured here and there over the last two seasons) are brilliant. If you haven't caught one yet, they are three shorts that are spread out throughout the show. MacGruber is a spoof of MacGyver that always seem to end badly. They also seem to sometimes cross the line just a little bit more each episode as you'll see below.
3. Christopher Walken: Indoor gardening tips from a man who's very scared of plants. There isn't another actor on the planet--ney, universe that could pull this sketch off better.
4. Andy Samberg: Andy Samberg's humor as a whole is rather underrated...it's simple humor, you need to shut your brain off and laugh (and I mean that as a compliment). Most of Samberg's best work have been in the digital shorts as you see here.
5. Fred Armisen: When all is said and done, I don't think it's out of the question that Armisen could end up being the most versital actor in SNL's history (passing the late Phil Hartman). He can play any character (literally ANY nationality). I would imagine the show is secretly pulling for Obama to become the next president as it would mean at least four more years of Armisen.
1. Digital Shorts: The Digital Shorts might have saved this show all together. "Dick in a Box" and "Lazy Sunday" get all of the attention but the show has had a few gems this season.
2. The "MacGruber" sketches: These sketches (which have now been featured here and there over the last two seasons) are brilliant. If you haven't caught one yet, they are three shorts that are spread out throughout the show. MacGruber is a spoof of MacGyver that always seem to end badly. They also seem to sometimes cross the line just a little bit more each episode as you'll see below.
3. Christopher Walken: Indoor gardening tips from a man who's very scared of plants. There isn't another actor on the planet--ney, universe that could pull this sketch off better.
4. Andy Samberg: Andy Samberg's humor as a whole is rather underrated...it's simple humor, you need to shut your brain off and laugh (and I mean that as a compliment). Most of Samberg's best work have been in the digital shorts as you see here.
5. Fred Armisen: When all is said and done, I don't think it's out of the question that Armisen could end up being the most versital actor in SNL's history (passing the late Phil Hartman). He can play any character (literally ANY nationality). I would imagine the show is secretly pulling for Obama to become the next president as it would mean at least four more years of Armisen.
The Reach Is On Facebook
Just wanted to throw this tidbit out to anyone who is interested. The Reach Blog has made it's way to Facebook. There is a group set under the name The Reach Around Blog (you see, we wanted to keep things with that old school vibe). Feel free to leave postings, post ideas, thoughts, comments, suggestions, or whatever else you want.
What Do You Know? Another Game 7!
What are the chances that tonight's San Antonio Spurs-New Orleans Hornets game can even stack up to yesterday's game 7? 50-50? That's probably being generous. Either way, this is one that you don't want to miss. I keep getting the feeling everytime I've watched Chris Paul this season, that I'm watching a performance that I'm going to tell me kids about one day. He has been that amazing.So what do we need to look for tonight? Other than the potential awesomeness of CP3? Well, so far this series, Tim Duncan has been frustrated with the New Orleans defense. If Duncan gets the offensive game going early (like in game 6)the Spurs will have New Orleans sweating.
The Reach Blog's pick: Spurs 94-89. I was wrong about the Celtics-Cavs game and I might be wrong here. I just can't go against the defending champs in a game of this magnitude.
Van Halen
Honestly, I woke up this morning with no interest of finding some mind blowing--change the world music video. So I settled on Nerf Herder. There is nothing Earth changing about this band. They are Blink 182 with a masters degree (actually I don't know if that's true). All in all, this is one of their most successful songs. Actually, the one of the only reasons they got attention for this song was because it made fun of an MTV staple--Van Halen.
The lyrics are Van Halen references. All in all, the song could be taken a homage to Van Halen...however, Sammy Hagar, David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen and the rest of the guys didn't see it that way, going so far as to trash Nerf Herder in the press. The backlash from the band helped make this song a minor hit on MTV in 1996.
After "Van Halen", Nerf Herder's biggest mark was recording the theme song to the WB TV show, "Buffy The Vampire Slayer", making them the most successful nerd rock band from Santa Barbara to record a theme song to a TV show based on a 1992 Kristy Swanson movie.
Anyhow, I'm really getting off track. Enjoy Nerf Herder's "Van Halen".
The lyrics are Van Halen references. All in all, the song could be taken a homage to Van Halen...however, Sammy Hagar, David Lee Roth, Eddie Van Halen and the rest of the guys didn't see it that way, going so far as to trash Nerf Herder in the press. The backlash from the band helped make this song a minor hit on MTV in 1996.
After "Van Halen", Nerf Herder's biggest mark was recording the theme song to the WB TV show, "Buffy The Vampire Slayer", making them the most successful nerd rock band from Santa Barbara to record a theme song to a TV show based on a 1992 Kristy Swanson movie.
Anyhow, I'm really getting off track. Enjoy Nerf Herder's "Van Halen".
They're Bringing Back The Stanley Cup Finals This Year
Remember the NHL? It stood for the National Hockey League. Anyhow, the league hasn't been around in fifteen years or so. Maybe it's because of the new Indiana Jones movie, or the resurgence of the Boston Celtics, or the fact that someone named Cyrus is at the top of the music charts--but the nostalgic bug has hit the NHL. Apparently they have decided to hold another "Stanley Cup Finals" this year.The best way to describe it is, think soccer, but with sticks on ice (and it's about as fun to watch on tv). The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Philadelphia Flyers last night 6-0 to advance to their first Final in 16 years (thanks to some kid named Crosby--who, by the way is really good). Actually the real story here is how the Penguins have gone from being on the verge of moving to Canada to getting back to the Cup Finals in a span of 17 months. Of course it doesn't hurt that they have the best young player in the NHL. The Penguins will await the winner of the Dallas Stars-Detroit Red Wings series in the Western Conference (Detroit leads 3-2, with game six tonight).
Making It (Fake) Rain
Floyd Mayweather (a boxer for those of you who didn't know), was at PURE (a nightclub in Las Vegas) on Saturday (the day that falls between Friday and Sunday). While attempting to do his best Pacman Jones impression and "make it rain", Mayweather's friends began handing out stacks of $100 bills to people around the club. Good times had by all. Except for one person at the club, who attempted to purchase some gas later that evening with one of the $100 bills he was handed. Here's the story from SandraRose.com :My photographer Freddy O was almost arrested at a gas station this morning after trying to pay for gas with one of the counterfeit $100 bills that boxer Floyd Mayweather tossed in the air at Club PURE last night.According to Fred (and several others in attendance) Mayweather’s “boys” were handing him the stacks of hundreds.There is speculation that one of his “boys” switched out the real hundreds for the counterfeit hundreds and kept the real cash for himself. I would be inclined to believe that maybe Floyd didn’t know what his boys were doing, except that this has happened before!Some club patrons in Las Vegas also complained about Mayweather tossing counterfeit bills earlier this year. We’re not talking fake bills of the copy machine variety - we’re talking print shop quality counterfeit bills.
This sounds like Mayweather could be in a lot of trouble if this is true and he knew about the counterfit bills. People making fake money isn't high on the list of things the Feds like to hear about.
There Was A Basketball Game Yesterday?
Sometimes when something happens we have a tough time putting the even in persepective until years later. This shouldn't be the case with yesterday's Boston-Cleveland game 7. The Celtics defeated the Cavs 97-92 in a series finale that, for the most part, was epic. Lebron scores 45? Still loses? Talk about going down fighting (of course it doesn't help when Paul Pierce goes for 41). In the end, Cleveland just didn't have anyone else. It was really obviouis that Cleveland missed Daniel Gibson and his 3 point shooting. The corpse formally known as Ben Wallace (3 points, 4 rebounds?!) did nothing to help his team's cause.Paul Pierce just got his ticket stamped to Springfield, MA. Although,it was funny to hear the announcers in the game yesterday debate on whether Pierce would have his number retired after his career is over in Boston (um...yes?). The ABC telecast also put up a graphic during the game stating that Pierce had played more playoff games in a Celtics uniform without winning a championship than any other player in team history. Well, it sure as hell looks like he's motivated to end that streak. Up next for the Celtics...the Detroit Pistons. Game one is Tuesday night in Boston, but thanks to the Celtics series going the full 7 games, it allows Chauncy Billups to return from his injury without missing any of the Conference Finals. Prediction? I've labled the Pistons as the East's best team all season, and I'm not going to change that now. Pistons in 7.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
We Are All On Drugs
Here's a song/video I've been meaning to get to for a while now. "We Are All On Drugs" was the second single off Weezer's 2005 album "Make Believe". The song was released on the heels of "Beverly Hills"--and this song was chosen by the band as their next single. It began picking up big radio airplay until censorship hit an all time low and MTV demanded the band re-dub some lyrics.
"We Are All On Drugs" according to Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo the song wasn't just about drugs--more about addiction in our society (tv, internet, gambling, and relationships). However, MTV decided it was a rally cry for dopefiends from coast to coast. Thanks again to the network that brought us "The Hills", Weezer hand was forced. They redubbed the lyrics and the song was now called "We Are All In Love"...how lame.
Well, I will post the "Drugs" video--you can go look that version up on your own time. Scene for scene, the video is the exact same...just different lyrics. So, as I say everyday, enjoy Weezer's "We Are All On Drugs".
"We Are All On Drugs" according to Weezer frontman Rivers Cuomo the song wasn't just about drugs--more about addiction in our society (tv, internet, gambling, and relationships). However, MTV decided it was a rally cry for dopefiends from coast to coast. Thanks again to the network that brought us "The Hills", Weezer hand was forced. They redubbed the lyrics and the song was now called "We Are All In Love"...how lame.
Well, I will post the "Drugs" video--you can go look that version up on your own time. Scene for scene, the video is the exact same...just different lyrics. So, as I say everyday, enjoy Weezer's "We Are All On Drugs".
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Another Game 7? Mmmmm...
This has been the best NBA season since I became a fan in the late 1980s. The playoffs? They keep getting better and better and now we have two game 7s. It really doesn't get much better than this. Tomorrow I will be glued to the couch as the Celtics and Cavs go at it one more time. Where is this headed? I tend to believe that if Lebron is going to be one of the best players--he will come up big tomorrow, and I don't doubt that he will.
Kevin Garnett on the other hand? He had a huge game 5, which if you're keeping track at home runs his total of big time playoff performances to...3 (maybe?). He's also looking for his 5th series victory of his 12 year career. It could be worse for him--T-Mac is still searching for his first.
I really want this game to be better than the Atlanta-Boston game 7. I can't imagine Lebron allowing Cleveland to get blown out like Atlanta did. I'll take Cleveland 92-85. Lebron: 40-12-10 (because, why the hell not?).
Kevin Garnett on the other hand? He had a huge game 5, which if you're keeping track at home runs his total of big time playoff performances to...3 (maybe?). He's also looking for his 5th series victory of his 12 year career. It could be worse for him--T-Mac is still searching for his first.
I really want this game to be better than the Atlanta-Boston game 7. I can't imagine Lebron allowing Cleveland to get blown out like Atlanta did. I'll take Cleveland 92-85. Lebron: 40-12-10 (because, why the hell not?).
Subterranean Homesick Blues
Bob Dylan: One of the biggest reasons you should not own a HDTV. Either that, or they should give you ten seconds notice before popping him on the screen. It's scary. I also can't look at him anymore without seeing Cate Blanchette and that alone creeps me out.
So what do I go and do? Give you Bob Dylan for today's Music Video Of The Day. A little background here. D.A. Pennebaker originally filmed this "promotional video" for the opening scene in his Dylan documentary "Don't Look Back". The song, "Subterranean Homesick Blues" was Dylan's first top 10 hit in the U.S.
I'm not going to bore you with more facts about this video. Plain and simple--check it out below. Bob Dylan's "Subterranean Homesick Blues"...enjoy.
So what do I go and do? Give you Bob Dylan for today's Music Video Of The Day. A little background here. D.A. Pennebaker originally filmed this "promotional video" for the opening scene in his Dylan documentary "Don't Look Back". The song, "Subterranean Homesick Blues" was Dylan's first top 10 hit in the U.S.
I'm not going to bore you with more facts about this video. Plain and simple--check it out below. Bob Dylan's "Subterranean Homesick Blues"...enjoy.
Canadians Love New Kids On The Block
Happy weekend everyone. Now that we have the small talk out of the way I'll get to the breaking news. For those of you who were around 18 years ago (most--if not all of you, since I can't imagine high school kids reading The Reach) might remember New Kids on the Block. It is pretty much impossible to stress how big they were back then. They were the biggest pop group in the world and number two wasn't even close. Anyhow, they're going back on a North American tour this fall. Apparently they were on the Today Show this past week performing their new single (wow, they're going all out with this one).Now for the real headspinning part of the story. The tickets for their Toronto show September 21 at the Air Canada Center sold out in four minutes. For those of you who don't know, the Air Canada Center holds between 18,000 and 20,000 depending on the event. This means that 20,000 people in the greater Toronto area have a desire to drop $75 to see NKOTB (see the kind of vibe I'm setting by using the initials?). I suppose I could point out that they are between the ages of 38-39 years old...so, you can imagine all the 35 year old moms who will be looking back on their lives as they wonder how it could've all been different if they could've had a chance to "french" with Joey McIntyre. And while I'm on the topic of New Kids, is it just me or does Danny Wood just look odd? I just can't put my finger on it...he just looks like he's be a huge douche.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Cleveland Gets His Own Show?
I was looking at the upcoming fall schedules for TV and came across something interesting. A show that was going to air on FOX called "The Cleveland Show". After doing some digging and researching (well, clicking on a link), I saw that Seth McFarland is developing a show about Cleveland Brown from "Family Guy".
Here's a brief synopsis of the show from Zap2it.com:
"Synopsis: Peter Griffin's buddy Cleveland moves to Stoolbend, VA with his son, his high school sweetheart Donna and her daughter. The wacky neighbors include a loudmouth redneck couple, a British family seemingly stuck in the Victorian era and a family of bears in this "Family Guy" spin-off"
There you have it! There's no way this show is going to suck (and by that, I mean it can't be worse than "American Dad"...but maybe McFarland should focus on making "Family Guy" the show it once was. I mean, the show still has it's moments, but isn't nearly as good as it used to be.
Oh My God
I've been lucky enough to catch the Kaiser Chiefs live twice over the last five years. The first was during the Foozer tour in 2005 (that's Weezer and Foo Fighters headlining). The thing about that show was two of my favorites shared a bill but the Kaiser Chiefs stole the show.
Not too long after the Foozer show, I picked up a copy of their album "Employment"--since then, it's become one of my ten or so favorite albums (an album that is essential to anyone who even remotely likes alternative/indie rock). It's one of those rare albums you can listen to start to finish and never be tempted to skip a track. They released another album titled "Angry Mob" about a year and a half ago, great album although not nearly as strong as "Employment".
I then caught them about a year and some change ago at a small venue in Minneapolis called Trocaderos. Again, the band put on an A+ show. Their songs were catchy enough that you didn't need to know anything about them to get compleatly lost in the show.
So it's mainly because of their live cred that they are being featured as a Music Video Of The Day. Their music videos are pretty decent--but nothing that is ground shaking. So the video today, "Oh My God" is one of their best (it's also a staple at their live show--usually the closing song). Lilly Allen did a cover of this song that isn't horrible (there's a video somewhere on You Tube of it), just different if you like her style.
Anyhow, enough chit chat. I give you The Kaiser Chiefs with "Oh My God"...
Not too long after the Foozer show, I picked up a copy of their album "Employment"--since then, it's become one of my ten or so favorite albums (an album that is essential to anyone who even remotely likes alternative/indie rock). It's one of those rare albums you can listen to start to finish and never be tempted to skip a track. They released another album titled "Angry Mob" about a year and a half ago, great album although not nearly as strong as "Employment".
I then caught them about a year and some change ago at a small venue in Minneapolis called Trocaderos. Again, the band put on an A+ show. Their songs were catchy enough that you didn't need to know anything about them to get compleatly lost in the show.
So it's mainly because of their live cred that they are being featured as a Music Video Of The Day. Their music videos are pretty decent--but nothing that is ground shaking. So the video today, "Oh My God" is one of their best (it's also a staple at their live show--usually the closing song). Lilly Allen did a cover of this song that isn't horrible (there's a video somewhere on You Tube of it), just different if you like her style.
Anyhow, enough chit chat. I give you The Kaiser Chiefs with "Oh My God"...
The Best of Manny Being Manny
As mentioned yesterday, Manny Ramirez high fived a fan after making a catch before compleating the double play. It was one of the definitive "Manny Moments". Since I didn't have a video clip of Manny cutting off Johnny Damon's throw from the outfield, I didn't reference it. However, thanks to Baseball Tonight, they've comprised a package of "Manny's Greatest Hits". This is so entertaining. How can you not love Manny Ramirez? Even Yankee fans should love this guy--there has never been another one like him and there never will.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Remember Being In 8th Grade?
This story still gives me a headache. For those of you not connected to the college basketball world, Kentucky got a verbal agreement from an 8th grader from Thousand Oaks, CA. Michael Avery (somehow he's 15, but an 8th grader?) made his college decision before he decided where he was going to attend high school.Perhaps the oddest part of this story is that Billy Gillispie got hot and heavy for this kid (there's probably a better choice of words out there, but I'm tired) after his performance in an Ohio tournament last year. Good God. Check out this article from the LA Times about Avery.
Manny Being Manny? Manny Being Awesome!
I'm sorry for the lack of updates today, I'll try and make up for it tomorrow, I swear. But it looks like San Antonio and New Orleans are going 7 games (which is just fantastic). I'm absolutely giddy at the possibility of 3 game 7's this weekend (and with the way road teams play this round--it's well within our grasp as fans).
I wanted to get to this before it was too dated, but for those of you that haven't seen this highlight yet (and that can't possibly be too many people--it's been all over the web), this might be my single favorite play in sports over the last decade. Manny Ramirez catches the Kevin Millar flyball on the run...and well, the video speaks for itself.
Say what you will about the Red Sox...but you cannot deny Manny as one of the greatest characters in sports history...this play cements his legacy.
I wanted to get to this before it was too dated, but for those of you that haven't seen this highlight yet (and that can't possibly be too many people--it's been all over the web), this might be my single favorite play in sports over the last decade. Manny Ramirez catches the Kevin Millar flyball on the run...and well, the video speaks for itself.
Say what you will about the Red Sox...but you cannot deny Manny as one of the greatest characters in sports history...this play cements his legacy.
Chips Ahoy!
It was only a matter of time before The Hold Steady got a Music Video of the Day. This is probably their best effort so far (as far as music videos go). Like some cheesy 197o's newscast, featuring the Lone Ranger, pizza delivery man, pool cleaner, and a Cardinal of the Catholic Church (not to mention a subtly hinted at 6 some featuring the band and a clairvoyant girl with a knack for racehorses).
I was trying to hold off on The Hold Steady (couldn't find a better way to word that) until their new album "Stay Positive" came out unitl July. I made it two weeks.
So, enjoy...The Hold Steady's "Chips Ahoy!".
I was trying to hold off on The Hold Steady (couldn't find a better way to word that) until their new album "Stay Positive" came out unitl July. I made it two weeks.
So, enjoy...The Hold Steady's "Chips Ahoy!".
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Get To Know Your NBA Draft Prospects: OJ Mayo
The NBA Draft is June 26. Between now and then The Reach Blog is going to try and get you up to speed with the players who will be drafted. Josh Nguyen is a guest analyst and his views will either make you laugh, cry, or yawn (hopefully none of the three). Today's prospect is USC Freshman OJ Mayo. O.J. Mayo, SG, 6’5 200 lbs
20.7 ppg, 3.3 apg, 4.5 rrb, 1.5 spg
Projected 3rd thru 7th Pick
If your team is lucky enough to get the first or second pick in the NBA Draft don’t be upset because O.J. is a great consolation prize. Well he isn’t Michael Beasley or Derrick Rose but his potential to be an NBA all-star is just as good.
The more I watch his game along clips from his freshman year at USC and his high school tapes he reminds me of Gilbert Arenas. Like Agent Zero, Mayo is willing to pull the trigger from anywhere on the court but that also leads to shooting his team out of games. You’ll love that fact that he can take over a game at any moment buts it more of a “let me score and no one else” type of performance. He doesn’t really make his teammates better by passing but he will by drawing double teams and breaking down zones defenses by driving to the lane. To give Mayo some credit he wasn’t really working with much at USC. One last thing on Mayo’s game he can be a shut-down defender when he wants to.
The off-the-court questions have plagued him during his quest to the NBA since 9th grade when he popped on the scene. Especially with the recent allegations of him accepting over 30 grand in money from an agent. Not to worry, you’ve got to understand that these allegations are coming from a convicted cocaine dealer and as much as we trust the people who supply drugs he may not be the most creditable person. So if these are false, O.J. has been at one of the most distracting college campuses in the nation and has come out with a better reputation then he entered with. We all have dreams of getting the 1st or 2nd pick but if it doesn’t happen don’t be sad. Be happy, because you can get a guy who can be a 20 point per night scorer in the league. The question I leave you with is, would you like to have Gilbert Arenas on your favorite team?
20.7 ppg, 3.3 apg, 4.5 rrb, 1.5 spg
Projected 3rd thru 7th Pick
If your team is lucky enough to get the first or second pick in the NBA Draft don’t be upset because O.J. is a great consolation prize. Well he isn’t Michael Beasley or Derrick Rose but his potential to be an NBA all-star is just as good.
The more I watch his game along clips from his freshman year at USC and his high school tapes he reminds me of Gilbert Arenas. Like Agent Zero, Mayo is willing to pull the trigger from anywhere on the court but that also leads to shooting his team out of games. You’ll love that fact that he can take over a game at any moment buts it more of a “let me score and no one else” type of performance. He doesn’t really make his teammates better by passing but he will by drawing double teams and breaking down zones defenses by driving to the lane. To give Mayo some credit he wasn’t really working with much at USC. One last thing on Mayo’s game he can be a shut-down defender when he wants to.
The off-the-court questions have plagued him during his quest to the NBA since 9th grade when he popped on the scene. Especially with the recent allegations of him accepting over 30 grand in money from an agent. Not to worry, you’ve got to understand that these allegations are coming from a convicted cocaine dealer and as much as we trust the people who supply drugs he may not be the most creditable person. So if these are false, O.J. has been at one of the most distracting college campuses in the nation and has come out with a better reputation then he entered with. We all have dreams of getting the 1st or 2nd pick but if it doesn’t happen don’t be sad. Be happy, because you can get a guy who can be a 20 point per night scorer in the league. The question I leave you with is, would you like to have Gilbert Arenas on your favorite team?
NBA Comparison: Gilbert Arenas
The Jersey Curse
I've been kicking this story around for a while. Not sure if it was a worthy thing to write about, recently though, Minnesota Twins pitcher Pat Neshek injured his elbow and is now injured for the season. The signifigance of this injury is that it happened roughly 3 weeks after I bought myself a Neshek jersey shirt.
For the last few years, I've joked that whenever I buy a jersey, I jinx the player. Sometimes it's a minor jinx somtimes major...so I've decided to document a historical walkthrough of the curse.
1996, Rashaan Salaam, Chicago Bears: After a solid rookie season (1995) where Salaam rushes for over 1,000 yards and 10 TD's I make my very first jersey purchase at the age of 14 using money I saved up from mowing lawns over a summer. However, Salaam would never come close to the success he had during that first season. By the end of 1997 he would be out of the NFL for the first time (he would make brief cameos in 1999 and 2003).
1999, Cade McNown, Bears: I picked up my McNown jersey before the start of the 2000 season. Things looked good for all of--oh, one week--as McNown played a solid game in Week 1 against Minnesota. Then it began to go downhill. McNown was pulled as the Bears QB by Week 7 and never started another game in the NFL.
2001, Jim Flanigan, Bears: Perhaps you are starting to see a trend growing here. I buy a Bears jersey--player X sucks as soon as the season starts. This is where that trend breaks. You see, after aquiring the jersey in the offseason, Flanigan got cut during the PRESEASON! I'll just move on...
June 19 2003 Jay Williams: I wish I was kidding with this one. I'm not. I promise. I picked up my away red Williams jersey while I was in Chicago visiting family. I returned to my grandmother's house after buying the jersey--turned on the TV...and saw that Williams was in a motercycle accident that day. For whatever reason, I hadn't taken the tags off the jersey yet and proceeded to return the jersey to the store the next day. I did exchange the jersey, oh yeah. I exchanged it for...
...June 20 2003, Mark Prior, Cubs: Do I really need to go on about how this one screwed me? You're probably thinking long term (2004-2008) here, but remember Prior's first freak injury occured a measly 3 weeks after purchasing this jersey (Prior and Marcus Giles had an on-field collision on July 11 forcing Prior to miss the All Star game and a few starts).
2004, Moises Alou, Cubs: Picked up this shirt during the final series of the season in 2004 against the Atlanta Braves. I forgot my Prior jersey in Minnesota and needed to get a Cubs shirt for the game. Alou left after the season as a free agent.
2005, Tyson Chandler, Bulls: Again, nothing bad really happened to Chandler. He just underacheived in Chicago. He was traded after the 2006 season to New Orleans for P.J. Brown and J.R. Smith (the latter of which was released almost immediatly). You'd think I'd be done buying Bulls jerseys for good but then...
2005, Ben Gordon, Bulls: Nothing bad has happened to Gordon yet...but he could very well be on his way out of Chicago this offseason (then again, this jersey was bought for me as a gift so he might be immune to the curse).
2005, Michael Barrett, Cubs: I picked up this jersey on another Wrigley Field trip, only to watch Barrett get into fights with his pitchers in the dugout during the 2007 season (to think, this is probably the least cursed jersey out of the bunch), before he was traded midseason.
2008, Pat Neshek, Twins: The whole reason this article was written. Pat, I am truly sorry. I feel like I am the reason you are done for the season.
So, there are a few things to learn here. I'm not sure if it's me cursing the jerseys or the fact that I've cheered for some crap-ass teams over the last decade or so. Either way, out of all the jerseys I own, Gordon and Neshek are the only ones still with said team. Chandler is playing great basketball for another team. Prior is still injured--Williams, Flanigan, McNown, Salaam are out of their respective leagues. The new rule is only jerseys of players who have retired (Ryne Sandberg...I wore the Flanigan jersey during Super Bowl XLI). Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go buy an Adrian Peterson Vikings jersey (I gotta help the Bears out with this jersey curse for once).
For the last few years, I've joked that whenever I buy a jersey, I jinx the player. Sometimes it's a minor jinx somtimes major...so I've decided to document a historical walkthrough of the curse.
1996, Rashaan Salaam, Chicago Bears: After a solid rookie season (1995) where Salaam rushes for over 1,000 yards and 10 TD's I make my very first jersey purchase at the age of 14 using money I saved up from mowing lawns over a summer. However, Salaam would never come close to the success he had during that first season. By the end of 1997 he would be out of the NFL for the first time (he would make brief cameos in 1999 and 2003).
1999, Cade McNown, Bears: I picked up my McNown jersey before the start of the 2000 season. Things looked good for all of--oh, one week--as McNown played a solid game in Week 1 against Minnesota. Then it began to go downhill. McNown was pulled as the Bears QB by Week 7 and never started another game in the NFL.
2001, Jim Flanigan, Bears: Perhaps you are starting to see a trend growing here. I buy a Bears jersey--player X sucks as soon as the season starts. This is where that trend breaks. You see, after aquiring the jersey in the offseason, Flanigan got cut during the PRESEASON! I'll just move on...
June 19 2003 Jay Williams: I wish I was kidding with this one. I'm not. I promise. I picked up my away red Williams jersey while I was in Chicago visiting family. I returned to my grandmother's house after buying the jersey--turned on the TV...and saw that Williams was in a motercycle accident that day. For whatever reason, I hadn't taken the tags off the jersey yet and proceeded to return the jersey to the store the next day. I did exchange the jersey, oh yeah. I exchanged it for...
...June 20 2003, Mark Prior, Cubs: Do I really need to go on about how this one screwed me? You're probably thinking long term (2004-2008) here, but remember Prior's first freak injury occured a measly 3 weeks after purchasing this jersey (Prior and Marcus Giles had an on-field collision on July 11 forcing Prior to miss the All Star game and a few starts).
2004, Moises Alou, Cubs: Picked up this shirt during the final series of the season in 2004 against the Atlanta Braves. I forgot my Prior jersey in Minnesota and needed to get a Cubs shirt for the game. Alou left after the season as a free agent.
2005, Tyson Chandler, Bulls: Again, nothing bad really happened to Chandler. He just underacheived in Chicago. He was traded after the 2006 season to New Orleans for P.J. Brown and J.R. Smith (the latter of which was released almost immediatly). You'd think I'd be done buying Bulls jerseys for good but then...
2005, Ben Gordon, Bulls: Nothing bad has happened to Gordon yet...but he could very well be on his way out of Chicago this offseason (then again, this jersey was bought for me as a gift so he might be immune to the curse).
2005, Michael Barrett, Cubs: I picked up this jersey on another Wrigley Field trip, only to watch Barrett get into fights with his pitchers in the dugout during the 2007 season (to think, this is probably the least cursed jersey out of the bunch), before he was traded midseason.
2008, Pat Neshek, Twins: The whole reason this article was written. Pat, I am truly sorry. I feel like I am the reason you are done for the season.
So, there are a few things to learn here. I'm not sure if it's me cursing the jerseys or the fact that I've cheered for some crap-ass teams over the last decade or so. Either way, out of all the jerseys I own, Gordon and Neshek are the only ones still with said team. Chandler is playing great basketball for another team. Prior is still injured--Williams, Flanigan, McNown, Salaam are out of their respective leagues. The new rule is only jerseys of players who have retired (Ryne Sandberg...I wore the Flanigan jersey during Super Bowl XLI). Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go buy an Adrian Peterson Vikings jersey (I gotta help the Bears out with this jersey curse for once).
Wooderson Smells Bad? Who Knew?
What else can be said about Matthew McConaughey? The man has slowly regressed into his character Wooderson from "Dazed and Confused". There was a time where he was considered a serious actor (he was in "Amistad"...he couldn't pull that off today). However, the last decade or so, he's become a punchline, albeit a punchline you'd love to have as your wing man on a Saturday night.
Recently, McConaughey admitted to never wearing deodorant. This means that he smells pretty much like a foot anytime he goes longer than 20 minutes without a shower. Never fear America, Axe Body Spray has his back. They sent him a year supply of deodorant when they heard of his habits. Axe also included a note for McConaughey expressing their desire that he do everything in his power not to lose his girlfriend Camila Alves because of his habits:
“We know that you already have a stunning girl in Camila Alves. But in a survey we recently conducted, nearly nine out of 10 girls (89 per cent) told us that they would turn down a guy because he smelled bad - no matter how in-shape or successful he is. “We read that you ‘never use deodorant' and we sure want you to keep Camila around, so we've enclosed a one year supply of the new AXE Bullet, the first pocket-sized deodorant body spray for guys. We know that you're always on-the-go and like to travel light, so this handy little gadget should fit perfectly into your active lifestyle!”
I wish I had a good punchline here. I don't, so instead, I'll just show this:
No Deodorant For McConaughey
The English Are A Fun Bunch
This story is the reason I still cannot get over why soccer doesn't thrive in America. Regardless, roughly 30 people were arrested in Manchester after a video board showing a Uefa Cup championship match failed. Three "Fan Zones" were set up around Manchester so fans without tickets could still watch the match. However, the screen in Piccadilly Gardens (see picture) failed roughly 15 minutes prior to the start of the match (culture shock #1: they don't call them games in the UK) which instigated a mini-riot (because of soccer--how odd).
One spectator, who in no way blew the broken screen issues out of proportion said, "It's an absolute shambles, shame on Manchester, shame on Manchester - it's let the country down."
For whatever reason, I just imagine the person who said that to be bleeding after taking a bottle to the head, but since he's an English Socc--excuse me, football fan, he just shakes it off.
Maybe The Most Incredible Sports Accomplishment Ever
I don't know if I'm exaggerating with the headline, but I don't think I am. Here's the deal, Rochelle High School (Texas) track and field star (and that's a modest term) Bonnie Richardson was the only member of her team to qualify for the state track and field championships. Well, she had a pretty successful showing at the championships and won the TEAM championships by herself.
"Bonnie Richardson of Rochelle High School scored 42 team points to win the Texas 1A track title.
Richardson was the only Rochelle athlete to qualify for the state meet and stunningly won the team title. University Interscholastic League officials said it was the first time they can remember a single athlete winning a girls' team title."
Richardson was the only Rochelle athlete to qualify for the state meet and stunningly won the team title. University Interscholastic League officials said it was the first time they can remember a single athlete winning a girls' team title."
Apparently this has been done before on the boys side. Frank Pollard did it in the 1970's, before he went onto play for the Pittsburgh Steelers. So maybe Richardson can parlay this performance into an NFL career...then again...
Knowing Your NBA Draft Prospects: Kevin Love
The NBA Draft is June 26. Between now and then The Reach Blog is going to try and get you up to speed with the players who will be drafted. Josh Nguyen is a guest analyst and his views will either make you laugh, cry, or yawn (hopefully none of the three). Today's prospect is UCLA Freshman Center, Kevin Love.
Kevin Love, C, 6’10 270 lbs
17.5 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 1.4 bpb, 1.4 apg
Projected 6th thru 12th Pick
Does your team need a low post scoring threat? Are you in need of a quality rebounded? If you answered yes to either or both of the questions The University of California Los Angeles has a guy for you. Please give a Reach-Around Blog welcome to Lake Oswego’s favorite son, Center, Kevin Love.
During his time at UCLA Kevin Love played all his games at Center, but even before he upgrades out of his 12ft’ by 20ft’ dorm, he will change his position to play Power Forward in the league. At 6’10 and 270 pounds he just too small to play center and he lacks the athleticism to stick at the “5’. He had a tough time when he played The Twins from Stanford (Brook and Robin Lopez), holding him under his season average points and rebounds in the three times they played. It’s been mostly bad on Love to this point but there are some good things about his game that will translate to the NBA.
First, he will be able to score in the league on and off the block. Kevin is able to hit the jumper in the 15 to 18 foot range will ease. When Love is posting up he’s not the biggest guy or the best athlete, but he makes up for both by being fundamentally sound and getting superb position on the block. Secondly, the part of his game that sets him apart from most big men is his passing. He passes extremely well at the top of the key and he is the best outlet passer in College Basketball. I will apologize now but there is more negative, he gives you almost nothing as defense goes. The biggest question for him is that will he be able to guard anyone. Even though Kevin is a bad defender he cleans the glass well.
As I rack my NBA mind to see who Love reminds me of, the best comparison I came with up is former NBA All-star Vin Baker. Like Baker, he lacks explosion and size but a very good mid-range game and more then adequate rebounding will keep him in the league. If he wants to stay there he’s got to keep his weight down so he can keep what little hoops he has. By the way I’m talking Vin Baker when he played for the Bucks and early with the Sonics and not when he was hitting the bottle. I see no problem with Kevin Love averaging 15 points and 10 rebounds in his career. So if you team need a constant scorer and rebounded, this is your guys.
NBA Comparison: Vin Baker (Pre Happy Hour)
Kevin Love, C, 6’10 270 lbs
17.5 ppg, 10.6 rpg, 1.4 bpb, 1.4 apg
Projected 6th thru 12th Pick
Does your team need a low post scoring threat? Are you in need of a quality rebounded? If you answered yes to either or both of the questions The University of California Los Angeles has a guy for you. Please give a Reach-Around Blog welcome to Lake Oswego’s favorite son, Center, Kevin Love.
During his time at UCLA Kevin Love played all his games at Center, but even before he upgrades out of his 12ft’ by 20ft’ dorm, he will change his position to play Power Forward in the league. At 6’10 and 270 pounds he just too small to play center and he lacks the athleticism to stick at the “5’. He had a tough time when he played The Twins from Stanford (Brook and Robin Lopez), holding him under his season average points and rebounds in the three times they played. It’s been mostly bad on Love to this point but there are some good things about his game that will translate to the NBA.
First, he will be able to score in the league on and off the block. Kevin is able to hit the jumper in the 15 to 18 foot range will ease. When Love is posting up he’s not the biggest guy or the best athlete, but he makes up for both by being fundamentally sound and getting superb position on the block. Secondly, the part of his game that sets him apart from most big men is his passing. He passes extremely well at the top of the key and he is the best outlet passer in College Basketball. I will apologize now but there is more negative, he gives you almost nothing as defense goes. The biggest question for him is that will he be able to guard anyone. Even though Kevin is a bad defender he cleans the glass well.
As I rack my NBA mind to see who Love reminds me of, the best comparison I came with up is former NBA All-star Vin Baker. Like Baker, he lacks explosion and size but a very good mid-range game and more then adequate rebounding will keep him in the league. If he wants to stay there he’s got to keep his weight down so he can keep what little hoops he has. By the way I’m talking Vin Baker when he played for the Bucks and early with the Sonics and not when he was hitting the bottle. I see no problem with Kevin Love averaging 15 points and 10 rebounds in his career. So if you team need a constant scorer and rebounded, this is your guys.
NBA Comparison: Vin Baker (Pre Happy Hour)
So I'm Not The Only One Who Found Ninja Turtles Impossible On Nintendo?
Cracked.com came up with a great list. It's the "Top 10 Irritatingly Impossible Old School Video Games". Very cool stuff. If nothing else it makes you feel better about not being able to beat "Battletoads" back in '91. Check out the article here. Leave your comments below and let me know what game caused you problems.
Missed The Boat
Modest Mouse is an interesting band for a couple of reasons. When the band started in 1993, they were a four piece band. After several releases and a few lineup changes, they are a six piece band, with two drummers. Rare is the band with two drummers. It leads to a unique sound. Back in 2006, former Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr met with the band about recording a few songs for their album "We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank". Eventually that led to a full time touring gig with Modest Mouse.
Recently, the band developed a contest that would allow fans to direct their own video for their new single "Missed the Boat". The band picked a video directed by Walter Robot as the winner, the video featured a robot coming alive and running away from home. Thanks to the powers that be, we can't get that entire video on The Reach Around. But we did get an alternate video which includes seven or so of Modest Mouse's favorite fan made videos, including the winning robot video. It's still a really great video--especially when you consider who directed it. So, keep that in mind as you enjoy Modest Mouse's "Missed The Boat".
Recently, the band developed a contest that would allow fans to direct their own video for their new single "Missed the Boat". The band picked a video directed by Walter Robot as the winner, the video featured a robot coming alive and running away from home. Thanks to the powers that be, we can't get that entire video on The Reach Around. But we did get an alternate video which includes seven or so of Modest Mouse's favorite fan made videos, including the winning robot video. It's still a really great video--especially when you consider who directed it. So, keep that in mind as you enjoy Modest Mouse's "Missed The Boat".
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Knowing Your NBA Draft Prospects: Brook Lopez
The NBA Draft is June 26. Between now and then The Reach Blog is going to try and get you up to speed with the players who will be drafted. Josh Nguyen is a guest analyst and his views will either make you laugh, cry, or yawn (hopefully none of the three). Today's prospect is Stanford Cardinals' sophomore center, Brook Lopez.
Brook Lopez, C, 7’0 ft, 260 lbs
19.3 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 2.1 bpg, 1.4 apg
Projected 3rd thru 6th Pick
This is where the drop-off beings as far as potential goes in the NBA Draft. A lot like last year everyone was drooling over the talents of the Top 2 and the same goes for this year. I think of Brook Lopez as the Al Horford of this year’s draft.
Brook has a lot of good qualities in his game but doesn’t really have any great or defining skills to set him apart. I wouldn’t hold that against him because you need those guys that are solid all the way around to have a winning ball club. Think Kevin Willis without the crazy guns (yes, I just referred to another mans arms as guns) and that would be a good reflection of Brook Lopez’s game.
In college he was a good scorer but it was much to do because of his size. At 7’ft he would shoot over a lot of smaller players and even though he did that a fair amount. Brook did expand his game this year by trying to extend his range. One problem with that is some bad shots came out of the deal and it lead to some bad shooting performances. You’re in good shape if he is a 3rd or 4th options offensively, but beware he can take over a game. Love his intangibles he brings to the table, intensity and leadership are a main reason he is such a highly coveted prospect. For Brook and his career in the NBA, his rebounding and defensive will be the key to his longevity.
Put Lopez on a team where he doesn’t have to be a vocal point of the offensive and he will excel. Let him get his buckets off the offensive glass until his mid-range gets better and you will have a quality big man for a while. So if you’ve given up on the top two pick be content with getting a guy who can help you win for along time.
NBA Comparison: Kevin Willis
Brook Lopez, C, 7’0 ft, 260 lbs
19.3 ppg, 8.2 rpg, 2.1 bpg, 1.4 apg
Projected 3rd thru 6th Pick
This is where the drop-off beings as far as potential goes in the NBA Draft. A lot like last year everyone was drooling over the talents of the Top 2 and the same goes for this year. I think of Brook Lopez as the Al Horford of this year’s draft.
Brook has a lot of good qualities in his game but doesn’t really have any great or defining skills to set him apart. I wouldn’t hold that against him because you need those guys that are solid all the way around to have a winning ball club. Think Kevin Willis without the crazy guns (yes, I just referred to another mans arms as guns) and that would be a good reflection of Brook Lopez’s game.
In college he was a good scorer but it was much to do because of his size. At 7’ft he would shoot over a lot of smaller players and even though he did that a fair amount. Brook did expand his game this year by trying to extend his range. One problem with that is some bad shots came out of the deal and it lead to some bad shooting performances. You’re in good shape if he is a 3rd or 4th options offensively, but beware he can take over a game. Love his intangibles he brings to the table, intensity and leadership are a main reason he is such a highly coveted prospect. For Brook and his career in the NBA, his rebounding and defensive will be the key to his longevity.
Put Lopez on a team where he doesn’t have to be a vocal point of the offensive and he will excel. Let him get his buckets off the offensive glass until his mid-range gets better and you will have a quality big man for a while. So if you’ve given up on the top two pick be content with getting a guy who can help you win for along time.
NBA Comparison: Kevin Willis
With No Regard For Human Life
Did you see the exclamation by Lebron James last night over the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year? Do you think Celtics fans are getting worried now? Sure, they beat Cleveland twice (both in Boston and both thanks to below average games by King James). Last night? James was getting the swagger back and this dunk (which is the video definition of "Killer Instinct") with 1:44 remaining in the 4th solidified it--James is back and if you think he's going to let his team lose the best 2 of 3, you're crazy.
The C's officially can't win on the road now and are missing some important ingredients (see also: big defensive stops, a "go to guy") --not against seasoned teams (which both Detriot and Cleveland are). The question now, is, will Cleveland steal game five or seven in Boston? Personally, I think they win tomorrow night and finish off Boston in six...but I've been wrong before and I'll be wrong again.
Insistor
We missed the music video of the day yesterday (there's a great story behind that--however, you're going to have to wait a little bit until I can tell it). We're working on something big over at The Reach Around--but it'll come in due time...
So to make it up to you, our devoted reader, we decided to give you a music video that isn't just awesome, we wanted one with a song that is A+++. So after searching and agonizing for the perfect video, we've found it. With a sound that mixes the best of The Pixies and Pavement, I give you a band who formed at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota...Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Tapes N' Tapes..."Insistor"...enjoy...
So to make it up to you, our devoted reader, we decided to give you a music video that isn't just awesome, we wanted one with a song that is A+++. So after searching and agonizing for the perfect video, we've found it. With a sound that mixes the best of The Pixies and Pavement, I give you a band who formed at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota...Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Tapes N' Tapes..."Insistor"...enjoy...
Monday, May 12, 2008
OJ Mayo's Troubles
Earlier this weekend I mentioned a story about OJ Simpson admitting to the double murder from 1994. Yesterday, we woke up to news about another OJ from USC. OJ Mayo, the freshman sensation who recently declared for the NBA Draft after one year in Southern California, was accused by a former member of his entourage, that he took illegal gifts while in high school and college. Two things struck me as odd about this story: 1. Since when do college kids have entourages? 2. How is anyone surprised by this?
Apparently OJ got clsoe to 30k, cell phones, clothing, and meals from Rodney Guillory, a Los Angeles-based event promoter with ties to Bill Duffy Associates (a California based sports agency) in exchange for Mayo signing with BDA upon entering the NBA Draft (which Mayo did). No word yet if USC has connections with the gifts yet.
How can anyone blame a kid for taking gifts at age 16 or 17 when college basketball isn't even on his radar? OJ Mayo has been in the public eye since 2002, when Mayo was in 7th grade. Since that moment in time (and perhaps before that), Mayo has focused on the NBA. It wasn't even until his junior year that the NBA developed it's age requirement. Now, post high school graduation, Mayo is faced with being forced (for lack of better options) to attend college for one year.
The trend will continue until the NBA makes these players take responsibility for their actions (be it with docking pay, or endorsement opportunities) so that these problems don't keep happening. Why should kids who don't even want to be playing college ball feel obliged to follow the rules if they're not the ones who get punished?
Sports Illustrated
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Do You Want To
Today's installment of Music Video of the Day is from Scottish band Franz Ferdinand (interestingly enough, not the same Franz Ferdinand whose assasination triggered the start of World War I). The lyrics of the song originally came from many different conversations the band members overheard while in an art gallary in Glasgow. The video seems to crack me up everytime I watch it. So, with that, enjoy Franz Ferdinand's "Do You Want To"...
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Real Life: More Violent Than Grand Theft Auto
A Columbia sociology professor has made an interesting claim after studying "Grand Theft Auto IV". Sudhir Venkatesh, who has written a book on gang life, says the realism in the video game, "actually offered a less sensational portrait of gangland and ghetto streets than the one put out by most cops, politicians, policymakers, and even academics."
Venkatesh, who wrote his review of the game for the newest issue of "Slate" actually spent time running with a gang from Chicago to help his research for the book. The article is quite interesting and worth a read.
United Countries of Baseball
Nine months ago, some baseball fanatic created the United Countries of Baseball map. Recently, the people over at One Droo Hill decided to update the map and tweek it a little bit. It's definately worth a look if you have a chance.
Mascot Decapitation
Cincinatti Reds mascot Mr. Redlegs had an unfortunate accident this past week...he lost his head. Pretty simple. Pretty funny. However, you really have to wonder if any kids were close by when it happened. Not funny for them...just tragic. Tragically funny. Hilariously tragic.
Where It's At
On August 1, 1996 MTV2 launched worldwide. Here's a nugget of trivia for you that you can choose to share or disregard at your own discretion. The first thing to ever air on MTV 2 was Beck's "Where It's At" video. Good stuff. If you find youself in a situation where knowing the answer to that question is the difference between life and death...feel free to thank me.
The song itself is pretty unique. It was co produced by Beck and The Dust Brothers and features some interesting sound bites from an obscure sex education album titled "Sex for Teens: (Where It's At)".
They say you're supposed to learn one new thing every day. You're covered for Saturday May 10 my friends.
Enjoy Beck's "Where It's At"...
The song itself is pretty unique. It was co produced by Beck and The Dust Brothers and features some interesting sound bites from an obscure sex education album titled "Sex for Teens: (Where It's At)".
They say you're supposed to learn one new thing every day. You're covered for Saturday May 10 my friends.
Enjoy Beck's "Where It's At"...
O.J. Confesses to Double Murder While High
I know what you're thinking...amazing right? Who'd have thought OJ Simpson smokes weed? And since when is confessing to the obvious a side effect of marijuana? I must've missed that one. Anyhow, the Associated Press is reporting that The Juice confessed to his former manager Mike Gilbert. I wonder why Gilbert decided to tell us all this story...oh yeah, he's coming out with a tell all book. Makes perfect sense. But why Mr. Gilbert, would you want to anger a double murderer?
"He said Simpson had smoked pot, took a sleeping pill and was drinking beer when he confided at his Brentwood home weeks after his trial what happened the night of June 12, 1994. Simpson said he went to his ex-wife's condominium, but did not bring a knife with him. Simpson told him Nicole Brown Simpson had one in her hand when she opened the door.
In a soft mumble, Simpson told him: 'If she hadn't opened that door with a knife in her hand ... she'd still be alive.' "
In a soft mumble, Simpson told him: 'If she hadn't opened that door with a knife in her hand ... she'd still be alive.' "
Mike Gilbert's book, "How I Helped O.J. Get Away With Murder: The Shocking Inside Story of Violence, Loyalty, Regret and Remorse" is due in stores on Monday.
Yale Galanter, who is OJ's current lawyer told the Associated PRess that none of the information in Gilbert's book is true. He even went to far as to call Gilbert "a delusional drug addict who needs money. He's fallen on very hard times. He is in trouble with the IRS."
I Wonder If Sparkle Motion Will Still Be Together
Chalk this up to news you probably won't like but against better judgement, but the powers that be have decided it necessary to make a sequal to "Donnie Darko". The movie will be titled "S. Darko" and--get this--will not include Jake Gyllenhaal or the orginal's director Richard Kelly. Now this might not be the worst idea in cinema history, but I can't see how this is going to end well. Maybe I'm overracting...let's look at the plot of "S. Darko":
"S. Darko takes place seven years after the original film. It follows Donnie Darko's younger sister, Samantha, ( Daveigh Chase, reprising her role from the original) on a road trip to Los Angeles, in which she is plagued by a series of bizarre visions."
Ugh. The plot screams "direct to dvd". The movie hasn't started filming yet, it's scheduled to begin in lat May, so there's still a chance it gets shelved in favor of "American Beauty 2: The Revenge"...we can only hope.
DMX and Michael Vick...Together At Last?
Rapper DMX (remember him?) is looking to go away for a long long time. The raspy voiced MC was arrested on Friday for animal cruelty and drug charges. Don't expect a new album anytime soon (of course, 2pac has released roughly 57 albums since he died...so I really don't know anymore).
Police took 5 pit bull puppies and 12 other animals from his house in the past week, the same week that found X (we've got that kind of vibe going on) getting pulled over for going 114mph. In other news, the rappers real name is Earl Simmons...so, we can see why he chose DMX, it sounds slightly tougher. Earl Simmons is the guy who owns the ma and pop bakery down the road. He isn't a rapper.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Neighborhood #3 (Lights Out)
Sorry for the lack of updates people. The internet at our offices has been acting up (it might be time to stop stealing wi-fi). But to kick off Friday afternoon, we're going to start things off like we always do, with the "Music Video of the Day".
I decided to tie in today's video with my softball league kicking off tonight. I always thought one of the most underrated aspects of being a pro baseball player is having any song of your choice being played as you walk up to the plate. Think about it, for fifteen seconds, you can make a crowd of 60,000 listen to whatever you want them to. This got me thinking, what song I pick as my at bat song if I played in the big leagues? The song from this music video, "Neighborhood #3 (Lights Out) by Arcade Fire would have to get serious consideration for a few reasons:
1. There's a xylophone in the song. Thus, making me the only big leaguer with a xylophone in their at bat song (I don't get to too many games outside of Minnesota or Wrigley, so I'm just guessing).
2. The opening 10-15 seconds are pretty cool--instantly you know you're listening to something that is different from most of the other crap out there.
3. Arcade Fire? Come on! Give me a better name of a band. I'm challenging you. It's one of the all time great band names.
4. The song is about living in Montreal during the 1998 North American Ice Storms. This works with Major League Baseball since the league sent the Expos to Washington, essentially saying, "lights out" to Montreal.
Enjoy, "Neighborhood #3 (Lights Out) by Arcade Fire...
I decided to tie in today's video with my softball league kicking off tonight. I always thought one of the most underrated aspects of being a pro baseball player is having any song of your choice being played as you walk up to the plate. Think about it, for fifteen seconds, you can make a crowd of 60,000 listen to whatever you want them to. This got me thinking, what song I pick as my at bat song if I played in the big leagues? The song from this music video, "Neighborhood #3 (Lights Out) by Arcade Fire would have to get serious consideration for a few reasons:
1. There's a xylophone in the song. Thus, making me the only big leaguer with a xylophone in their at bat song (I don't get to too many games outside of Minnesota or Wrigley, so I'm just guessing).
2. The opening 10-15 seconds are pretty cool--instantly you know you're listening to something that is different from most of the other crap out there.
3. Arcade Fire? Come on! Give me a better name of a band. I'm challenging you. It's one of the all time great band names.
4. The song is about living in Montreal during the 1998 North American Ice Storms. This works with Major League Baseball since the league sent the Expos to Washington, essentially saying, "lights out" to Montreal.
Enjoy, "Neighborhood #3 (Lights Out) by Arcade Fire...
Thursday, May 8, 2008
How Much Does Your Favorite Celebrity Spend On a Tank Of Gas?
Busted Coverage has a great post about the price of gas, or rather, how much Pete Wentz, John Daly, or Tracy McGrady spend to fill up their cars (cars that you or I will probaly not ever drive).
Busted Coverage
Busted Coverage
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