Lawerence Frank Fired

After coaching the New Jersey Nets for eight seasons Lawerence Frank was fired today. It was rumored for the past couple days that Frank would be fired due to his team’s dismal 0-16 start to the 2009-2010 NBA season.”I knew it was going to happen sooner or later because the Nets suck,” said Howard junior Shaq Mack, a Nets fan from New York. Not much was expected of the Nets before the season, ESPN.com had projected them one of the worst teams in the NBA this year. However nobody expected the team to start off this bad. The Nets are currently the only team in the NBA that hasn’t won a game. “I feel bad for the players I know they want to win,” said Desiree Simone, a sophomore Howard business major. The Nets currently own the second worst record in NBA history at the start of the season; the worst is 0-18.
As of today the Nets haven’t hired a replacement for Lawerence Frank yet, although fans hope that the changes will ignite a spark to the team that will eventually result in wins. “I just hope we can be a respectable team again, because right now we’re {the Nets} a joke,” added Mack.

Charlie Weis Fired

The New York Times and Espn have reported that Charlie Weis has been fired from Norte Dame today. Weis known as a player’s coach who spent the past six seasons with the Fighting Irish. Rumors have been spreading all season long that Weis job was in jeopardy, due to his team’s mediocre records throughout his six years. “Norte Dame is used to winning all the time, and not just winning but going to BCS games and winning national championships,” said Ahmad Smalls, a college football fan from Maryland. After yesterdays lose to Stanford Norte Dame finished its season with a 6-6 record leaving many fans disappointed. “I like Norte Dame because I’m from Indiana where the university is, and a lot of people thought they {Norte Dame} were going to be good this year including me,” said Shoneal Green, a Howard junior. Before the season Norte Dame was returning 8 starters on offense and 9 on defense. Such experience among its players left many analyst thinking that Norte Dame was a BCS contender before the season. However loses to several ranked teams shattered their BCS hopes. Norte Dame lost to ranked teams such as Michigan, Stanford, and USC. “I think if a program wants to be good and go to the BCS they need to go out and beat other ranked college football teams,” said Howard sophomore Aaron Fleming. “I believe that has a lot to do with Charlie Weis being fired; you can’t be an elite football program if you lose to all the elite and ranked football programs.
Charlie Weis firing came as a shock to nobody due to his team’s performance over the years. “I knew Charlie Weis would get fired because of all the reports I’ve been hearing of late,” said Green. Now the next job at hand for Notre Dame is to find a new coach. “Whoever they get I hope he can help Notre Dame win more games,” added Green.

Say it aint So?!?!

Allen Iverson retiring? After 13 seasons in the NBA Allen Iverson has decided to retire from the NBA. “When I first heard the news I was shocked. I really hope he changes his mind” said Jade Cosby from Virginia. Iverson the 6ft 165 pound guard out of Georgetown was the number one pick in the prestigious 1996 NBA draft class; that included the likes of Ray Allen, Steve Nash, Kobe Bryant, and Stephon Marbury to name a few. Throughout his NBA career Iverson accomplished much success. He was a ten time NBA all-star, three time NBA scoring champion, and 2001 NBA MVP. He’s regarded by many as the best “lil man” in the history of the NBA. “If Iverson was taller like say 6’6 I think people would be talking about him like they talk about Michael Jordan” said Arthur Cochran of Washington DC. “I think he would be the best player in NBA history if he was taller”. Iverson had most of his success in Philadelphia where he played for the 76ers for 10 seasons leading them to the NBA finals in 2001. However he was much travelled the last three years of his career playing for the Denver Nuggets for almost two years, Detroit Pistons for a year, and the Memphis Grizzlies for three games. “I’m always going to remember when he played for the 76ers, he pretty much dominated then, those were some great times” said Howard senior and Philadelphia native Ade Osalu.
The news of Iverson’s retirement came as a shock to many NBA fans, and even NBA players. Most people around basketball hope that Iverson will decided to come back. Lebron James told reporters that he hoped that Iverson would come back, saying that “if he is retiring he’s left a lot of good things behind”. Iverson’s former coaches John Thompson (Georgetown) and Larry Brown (76ers) have both said they plan to talk to Iverson soon to talk him out of retirement. “I hope somebody talks him into coming back. Whether that is coaches, players, or family I just want him to comeback” said longtime Iverson fan Krystle Evans of California.
Whether it’s the end or not Allen Iverson has had a hall of fame career, with many highlights and many memories. However we all hope this truly isn’t the end for Allen Iverson.

Rivalry Recap

Same rivalry with the same results. Today’s battle with the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Washington Wizards proved to be the same old story for Wizards, and Cavaliers fans. “It seems like they (the Cavaliers) have our number” said Wizards fan Daymond Green of Howard. The Cavaliers beat the Wizards 102 to 90. However much of the game was closer than its final score indicates. At the end of the first quarter the Wizards actually led 31 to 17. However after that Cleveland won the rest of the remaining three quarters. “Cleveland kind of scared me a little bit, that first quarter was bad” said Cavaliers fan Arthur Curry of DC. He and other Cavaliers fans were worried about the start, but Lebron James and company would eventually regain the lead. “It was a good game I wish the Wizards could have won, but that’s ok” said Peete Simpson of DC.
Game Box Score: Cleveland Cavaliers 102 vs. Washington Wizards 90
Washington Wizards: C. Butler 22 points and 6 rebounds B. Haywood 8 points and 9 rebounds M. Miller 12 points and 8 rebounds G. Arenas 22 points 5 rebounds and 7 assist A. Blatche 7 points and 8 rebounds
Cleveland Cavaliers: L. James 27 points 8 rebounds and 6 assist S. O’neal 21 points and 8 rebounds A. Varejao 10 points and 10 rebounds A. Parker 5 points M. Williams 15 pointsand 6 assist D. Gipson 14 points

Rivalry Renewed

The rivalry gets renewed today for the Washington Wizards. Since Lebron James entered the NBA in 2003 there has been a growing rivalry between his Cleveland Cavaliers and the Washington Wizards. “I have a love hate relationship with the Lebron James. I love the way he plays basketball, but I hate when he plays the Wizards” said Daymond Green of Howard. The rivalry between the two Eastern Conference teams started with the repeated meetings in the playoffs between the two teams. However Cleveland has pretty much dominated the Wizards in all their playoff meetings, they have eliminated them every single time. Then the rivalry escaladed with the Lebron James and Wizards guard Deshawn Stevenson’s war of words. Stevenson told reporters that he felt as though Lebron James is overrated. Lebron unfazed by such words told reporters that, “Deshawn is like Souja Boy, and I’m like Jay Z what he says doesn’t mean anything to me”. Through the many physical playoff meetings, and the war of words between the two teams this rivalry is a fan favorite. “I always love when they play, plus my Cavaliers always win anyway” said Cavaliers fan Arthur Curry of DC. However Wizards fans feel very different about the rivalry, “I hate the Cavaliers, and Lebron James is overrated to me Deshawn was right” said Wizards fan Amber White of Maryland. She’s not the only one with such harsh feelings. “I hope the Cavaliers lose every game, I never want them to have any type of success” said Wizards fan Peete Simpson of DC.

Fans from both sides couldn’t disagree more, however a lot is always settled when the two teams meet on the court. “We always beat the Wizards so it’s not much of a rivalry” said Curry. He’s right the Cavaliers won three out of four against the Wizards last year, and have eliminated the Wizards three times in the playoffs since Lebron James entered the NBA. However fans know that’s all in the past, the new season has started and the rivalry is renewed today.

Game time is set for 7pm at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. It’s the first of four meetings between the two teams this season.

Check back to my blog later to get a full game recap!!!

Black Role Models: Michael Jordan

The core values of the black culture range from the history of slavery, resistance, freedom, equality, social status, economic status, education, self- determination, the influence of role models, and so on. Webster’s defines self-determination as freedom to live as one chooses, or to act or decide without consulting another or others. It also defines a role model as a person whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others. There are many African Americans that exemplify these two core values. However there are few better, or with as many accolades as Michael Jeffery Jordan. Jordan’s many struggles and hurdles on the way to his legendary success define and exemplify self-determination.
Michael Jordan was born in Brooklyn, New York, on February 17, 1963. He was one of the five children of James and Deloris Jordan. Soon after Michael Jordan’s birth, his parents felt that Brooklyn was not the best location to raise a family, so they moved to Wilmington, North Carolina. As a child Michael immediately became interested in sports. His favorite sport was baseball, which was also the favorite of his father. Michael soon developed a love for basketball due to the influence of his older brother Larry who he says he idolized during his youth. During high school Michael played football, basketball, and baseball, but as a sophomore he tried out for the varsity basketball team, and got cut. The coach said Jordan was “he was raw and undersized” (imbd p.1 2009). For most high school boys such news would discourage them from playing organized basketball again. However Michael Jordan was different than others even at a young age. Such news made him even more determined to succeed. Michael spent the year on the junior varsity team practicing religiously on his basketball ability in preparation of the following year’s varsity team try outs. During the next school year after practicing tirelessly, and also growing four inches in height, Michael achieved his childhood goal of making the varsity basketball team. Michael not only became the star of the Laney High basketball team, but also became nationally known for his basketball skills, and eventually making the McDonald's All-American Team as a senior.
Following high school, Michael received a basketball scholarship to North Carolina University to play for legendary coach, Dean Smith. During his first year of college, he was the ACC Freshman of the Year, and lead North Carolina to a 1982 NCAA Championship title. As a junior, Michael won the Naismith College Player of the Year which is given to the best college basketball player, and at the season’s end, he decided to leave North Carolina in order to enter the NBA draft (he would later come back to school to complete his degree in geography).
Michael was selected third by the Chicago Bulls in the 1984, NBA draft. As a professional basketball athlete, Michael Jordan was the best ever in his field. His professional accolades include rookie of the year, five regular season M.V.P. awards, six NBA championships, six NBA finals M.V.P. awards, three All-Star game M.V.P. awards, and a defensive player of the year award.
However all this success didn’t come without tragedy for Michael. On July 23, 1993, his father James Jordan, was brutally murdered while sleeping in his car in North Carolina. Two criminals robbed James, shot him in the chest, and threw his body in a nearby swamp. Three months following his dad’s death Michael retired from basketball saying that, "he no longer had the desire to play” (impd p. 3 2009). Jordan’s next mission was to pursue his father’s love of baseball. He signed a one year minor league contract with the Chicago White Sox, in 1994. However Jordan wasn’t nearly as successful or skilled in baseball as he was in basketball. After the season’s end Michael decided return to playing basketball.
On March 18, 1995, Michael returned to the NBA for three years. In 1998, following another NBA championship, Michael Jordan retired for the second time. However ironically he made yet another come back to the NBA, in 2001, played another season and retired permanently in 2003.
Today Michael Jordan is not only known for being the best basketball player of all time, but also as a role model and hero for others, especially for blacks. ESPN proclaimed Michael Jordan as the best athlete ever. Michael Jordan is a leader and a role model to us all. He is a successful athlete, a graduate of a noted university, and is one of the most successful and respected black business men in the world. His basketball success led to Nike offering him a shoe endorsement deal. Unlike any other in the history of endorsements, Michael Jordan has his own label under Nike called, “Jordan.” He is the CEO of this division. The Jordan label started with just shoes, but it has expanded to all kinds of clothing from shirts, sweaters, jeans, other apparel items, and athletic gear. The Jordan label is known to be the premier brand of Nike, and is a very popular brand worldwide. Michael has experienced great success as the CEO of Jordan and is also a part owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. With all of his success Michael is not only known for being the best basketball player ever, but also a successful business tycoon. This leadership and success illustrates that individuals can branch out and be successful at multiple endeavors. Michael Jordan exemplifies three Black core values: 1) Community- with the Jordan clothing brand’s popularity across Black and other communities around the world, 2) Education- graduating from North Carolina with a degree in Geography, 3) Self-determination- making the varsity high school basketball team after being cut the year before, playing professional baseball when no one else was in favor of the idea, and coming back to play basketball after the murder of his beloved father. Michael Jordan defines greatness. He is a role model to Blacks because he has succeeded in core values that many members of the Black culture are still striving for. With every success story there is failures and bumps in the road to the success. Michael Jordan is living proof of this as well as of how an individual gracefully handles failure, disappointment, obstacles and bumps in the road. Michael Jordan illustrates that with determination, perseverance and hard work successes can be obtai

NBA 2K10

Not only is NBA Live 10 coming out tomorrow but so is its rival NBA 2K10. NBA 2K10 the game that has out performed NBA Live the last couple of years with game play and sales.” I used to buy NBA Live but I think NBA 2K has surpassed NBA Live on the best video game series” said Ade Adams a student at Howard. The NBA 2K series by Visual Concepts was first released in 1999. The game has added plenty of new game features that werent in the game in past years. Some of the features include live rosters, blacktop street basketball, and an updated Association mode where gamers can manage their own NBA fanchise. “They havent made a lot of changes from the previous year, but that because they didn’t really need to, it was and still is a great game” said Chris Owens a student at Howard. Another new feature that has created a buzz around NBA 2k fans is the “My Player”, which lets gamers take an up and coming player and set him on the path to a professional basketball career. However before the player you helped create can go pro, gamers will need to prove to an NBA franchise that the player is ready to be an NBA player. This mode starts out with an NBA tryout, to making a team, to a role player, starter, superstar, and hall of famer. It takes you through a real life NBA career and it’s up to the gamers to make their player succeed. “This feature seems amazing. I like it because it takes you through the life of a successful or unsuccessful NBA superstar” said Kyle Bentley a student at Howard.
The anticipation is almost here NBA 2K10 is set to be released tomorrow, and all NBA gamers are excited. “NBA 2K and NBA Live both come out tomorrow, it’s a good day for NBA video gamers. I cant wait to see which of the two video game series does the best” said Kevin Curry of California.

NBA Live Coming To A Store Near You!

Tomorrow marks the release of NBA Live 2010, the NBA video game series by EA Sports that originally came out in 1989. This year’s video game offers a whole new different experience then in years past. “I can’t wait to buy it, NBA Live is my favorite video game” said Darrell Peters of Howard. EA sport makers are saying it’s the most complete basketball game today. This game is different then years in the past because it enhances the game play controls which makes the players move more realistic. “The game looks a lot different then last year. I think the makers made some positive changes” said Bianca Dru of Howard. The game makers also made an emphasis on utilizing the fundamentals of basketball. The games goal is to get NBA Live players to feel closer to the real life NBA experience. It also has the DNA technology which first came out last year, where player stats, trends, and streaks from the real NBA transfer into the NBA Live game. “I buy NBA live solely because of the DNA technology; it’s amazing how a video game can update a player’s trends and stats like that. It makes the game far more realistic then any other basketball game” said Aaron Wade of Virginia. The graphics have also been upgraded. Each player has its own person realistic look with authentic tattoos, armbands, and shoes. The crowd has even been enhanced with different movement, cheering, booing, and chanting.
Many people are excited about the release of the new NBA Live, “basketball is my favorite sport, I love video games, and NBA Live is defiantly a game I have to get every year” said Marquis Roll of Howard. He’s not the only one who’s excited about the release,” It seems like every year EA Sports upgrades NBA Live to be the best basketball game possible. I’ll be sure to buy a copy” said Shaun Wills.
NBA Live is set to be released nationally October 6!

Nike Signs Vick???

Yesterday it was reported that Nike had reached a deal with Michael Vick to endorse him. Nike had originally signed Vick as a rookie in 2001, although when he pleaded guilty for dog fighting in 2007 Nike immediately dropped him from the label. Michael Principe the managing director of BEST, the agency that represents Vick came out in a press conference to announce the news. However today Nike announced it has made no such deals with Michael Vick, and that all rumors were false. Nike did say in a statement that, “Nike has agreed to supply product to Michael Vick as we do a number of athletes who are not under contract with Nike."
Contract or not Vick is still getting supplies by Nike in which most fans seem to be ok with.” Why cants Nike just endorse him? Everybody deserves a second chance” said Deshawn Butler of Tennessee. He’s not the only one who feels this way. “I’m so tired of hearing negative things about Michael Vick, why doesn’t America just move on an let the man live his life? I don’t get why Nike or anybody else thinks it’s a bad thing to endorse him” said Zia Manes from Virginia. Most people interviewed all agree Michael Vick deserves a second chance; however a lot are still frustrated by the public not fully embracing Vick. “Michael Vick is a role model to a lot of people, and I think he’s a great role model for people that have made mistakes in life an have been locked up. If he can come out of prison an still succeed in life, and his career other people will ask why cant they?” said Ahmad Broody.
It’s been about a mouth since Michael Vick got reinstated back to the NFL, and he’s been in headline news weekly. Lucky just about all the news has been good. Let’s just see if Nike, other endorsers and the generally public can do Michael Vick some good by giving him a fresh new start.

Vicks first game back

Instead of talking about each of the NFL games this week we are going to talk about the headline news for week 3, and that is no other than Michael Vick. Yesterday marked the first day of Michael Vick’s comeback where he was officially eligible to play football again. Vick’s numbers yesterday wont impress anybody (he was 0-2 passing with 1 rush for 7 yards) however it’s the big picture that Eagles fans and other NFL fans are looking for.” I think he did ok for his first game back, I mean two years in prison away from football what do you expect?” said Ade Carter an Eagles fan from Philadelphia. Most people feel the same way. “I think he did well for the first time back, if anybody thinks different I wouldn’t understand why, since he had a long layoff” said Ashley Lach’e from Baltimore. Journalist and NFL analyst were all covering Vick’s first game and critiqued his every move. For the most part everything surrounding Vick’s first performance was optimistic. A lot of fans feel the same way. “You cant expect to see the old Michael Vick so soon its going to take awhile maybe the whole year. I don’t know why some people are expecting so much so soon” said Robert Taylor of California. A lot agree including Vick and his coaches, always telling the media to give his progress time. “I took a couple of years off from football before in high school, and when I came back my senior year I felt far behind and I never recovered the whole year, it just seemed like the whole year I was behind. I can only image how Vick feels and he’s in the NFL” said Keshawn Merritt of Florida.
People are willing to give Vick time to process after his two year lay off, and he’s earned it. “Were pulling for your Vick” added Carter. He’s not alone most fans want to see Vick succeed in his second chance. Will see and we’ll keep our fingers crossed and hope for the best.

Here are the week 2 NFL results

NY Giants 33 Dallas 31
NY Giants stats: E. Manning 25/38 for 330 yards and 2 touchdowns
E. Manningham 10 receptions for 150 yards and 1 touchdown
Dallas stats: M. Barber 18 carries for 124 yards and 1 touchdown

Pittsburgh 14 Chicago 17
Chicago stats: J. Culter 27/38 for 234 yards and 2 touchdowns
Pittsburgh stats: B. Roethlisberger 23/35 for 221 yards and 1 touchdown

Baltimore 31 San Diego 26
Baltimore stats: J. Flacco 17/26 for 190 yards and 2 touchdowns
San Diego stats: P. Rivers 25/45 for 436 yards and 2 touchdowns
V. Jackson 6 receptions for 141 yards and 1 touchdown

Cleveland 6 Denver 27
Denver stats: 19/37 for 236 yards and 1 touchdown
Cleveland stats: B. Edwards receptions for 92 yards

Seattle 10 San Francisco 23
SF stats: F. Gore 16 carries for 207 yards and 2 touchdowns
Seattle stats: S. Wallace 15/23 for 127 yards and 1 touchdown

Tampa Bay 20 Buffalo 33
Buffalo stats: F. Jackson 28 carries for 168 yards
Tampa Bay stats: B. Leftwich 26/50 for 296 yards and 3 touchdowns

Carolina 20 Atlanta 28
ATL stats: M. Turner 28 carries for 105 yards and 1 touchdown
Carolina stats: S. Smith 8 receptions for 131 yards

Minnesota 27 Detroit 13
Minnesota stats: B. Farve 23/27 for 155 yards and 2 touchdowns
Detriot stats: M. Stafford 18/30 for 152 yards and 1 touchdown

Cincinnati 31 Green Bay 24
Cincinnati stats: C. Benson 29 carries for 149 yards
C. Ochocinco 4 receptions for 91 yards and 1 touchdown
GB stats: A. Rodgers 21/39 for 261 yards and 1 touchdown
D. Driver 6 receptions for 99 yards and 1 touchdown

Houston 34 Tennessee 31
Houston stats: M. Schaub 25/39 for 357 yards and 4 touchdowns
A. Johnson 10 receptions for 149 yards and 2 touchdowns
Tennessee stats: C Johnson 16 carries for 197 yards and 2 touchdowns
Oakland 13 Kansas City 10
OAK stats: J. Russell 7/24 for 109 yards
KC stats: M. Cassel 24/39 for 241 yards and 1 touchdown

New England 9 NY Jets 16
NY Jets stats: M. Sanchez 14/22 for 163 yards and 1 touchdown
NE stats: T. Brady 23/47 for 216 yards

New Orleans 48 Philadelphia 22
NO stats: D. Brees 25/34 for 311 yards and 3 touchdowns
M. Colston 8 receptions for 98 yards and 2 touchdowns
Philadelphia stats: 35/51 for 391 yards and 2 touchdowns
B. Celek 8 receptions for 104 yards

St. Louis 7 Washington 9
Washington stats: J. Campbell 23/35 for 242 yards
STL stats: S. Jackson 17 carries for 104 yards

Arizona 31 Jacksonville 17
AZ stats: K. Warner 24/36 for 243 yards and 2 touchdowns
Jacksonville stats: D. Garrard 23/43 for 282 yards and 2 touchdowns
M. Sims-Walker 6 receptions for 104 yards and 1 touchdown

Hall of Fame Speech

The basketball hall of fame induction is a ceremony that happens once every year where the greatest basketball players of their time get the greatest individual honor in their sport. During the ceremony the inductees give a speech thanking people, and reflecting on their career. However this year’s basketball hall of fame class and one individual speech has been causing a national buzz around sports analyst and fans.
Sports analyst and fans regard the 2009 basketball hall of fame class as the best ever. “This is the best basketball hall of fame class of my lifetime, and it has my all time favorite player in it” said Jordan Ambers a basketball player from California. This year’s class boosts the likes of Michael Jordan, David Robinson, Vivan Stringer, and Jerry Sloan. “The is a great class but it starts and ends with Michael Jordan, no offense to the other great players and coaches but Michael Jordan is the best of all time” said basketball fan Jerome Best from Virginia. It seems as though everyone agrees with Best claim, even the national media is focused the spotlight on Jordan. However Jordan’s induction speech has also got national attention, and a lot of it has been negative.
Many view Michael Jordan speech as arrogant, and biased. Others say he talked about people that had a part of his career negatively. “Jordan was a great player but he shouldn’t have talked negative about anybody, there wasn’t a need for that” said Jade Cosby. The speech came of wrong for a lot of people, “Jordan seemed arrogant, I mean he’s the best but it’s good to be humble” said Omar Leshaun from Virginia. During his speech Jordan talked about how former Utah Jazz guard Bryon Russell motivated him, and he made sure he got the best of him each time they played. He called out his high coach who cut him, and talked about the player who made it over him. Lastly he took a shot at former Bulls general manager Jerry Krause for saying that” organizations win championships”. Jordan believed he was wrong, saying that, “the players win championships”, and implying that it was his fault that the Chicago Bulls broke up in 1998.
The national media has a split view of Jordan’s speech some believe it was good, and some believe it was on called for. This is also the case with the people around the country that were interviewed for the story. “I liked his speech, he was just talking about what motivated him and there’s nothing wrong with that” said Richard Thistle a student from California. A lot of people view his speech as different but ok. “Michael Jordan is the best player of all time he can say anything he wants, whatever happened to freedom of speech?” said Chicago Bulls fan Brandon Walton.
Fans and all media outlets seem to be split whether they liked Jordan’s speech or not. Some say it was arrogant, biased, and unethical. Other says it was good, unique, and the best hall of fame speech ever. There’s obviously a disagreement about Michael Jordan’s speech, but there isn’t a disagreement that Michael Jordan was the best basketball player of all time, and if anybody dissevered to be inducted into the hall of fame it’s Michael Jordan.

Kanye West Good or Bad?

His actions have made national news; you can see it on T.V. from CNN to your local news channels. The president is even rumored to have called his actions “acting like an asshole”. Kanye West taking the microphone away from Taylor Swift during her acceptance speech hasn’t won him over a lot of positive feed back. So why did he do it? Are his actions justified? I interviewed 10 people from different parts of the country to represent how the general public feels about his actions.

“I believe Kanye West should be ashamed of himself. He had no reason to do that, this is people stereotype black so much” said Mathew Horn a college student from California

“Kid look up to people they see on T.V. Kanye West is on T.V. often what kind of roll model is he representing himself as?” said Adrienna Christy a mother of three from Baltimore

“I liked his actions he stood up for what he believed in, we talk about freedom of speech in the country right? He didn’t hurt anybody he was just speaking his mind” said Brandon Knight a college student from California.

“I don’t mind what he did, I wouldn’t of done it, but in a way he was right” said Chris Calvin a Costco employer from Arizona.

“I hate what Kanye did, its unethical, and rude” said Claudia Davis a college student from New York.

“What did Taylor Swift do to Kanye West? Its not her fault she won, and its not Kanye’s job to go up on stage an express his opinion, his opinion doesn’t matter” said Courtney Miller from Texas.

“I though it was funny, but it was very rude” said Enise Mccormick a college student from New Jersey

“People care to much about this it’s not that big of a deal to me” said Jazie Shaw from Virgina.

“I have no problem with what he did, its true, the MTV awards are superficial” said Kellan Carter a basketball player from Louisiana.

“I just shook my head the whole time Kanye West is an idiot, his judgment was very poor on that night” said Keshaun Murphy a college student from Tennesse.

From the people I interviewed from around the country seven believed Kanye West was wrong for what he did, and three people either didn’t care or said his actions were justifiable. Based from the results I got its 70% (Bad move) 30%(good move or don’t care)

NFL WEEK ONE RESULTS

Here are your week one NFL results:

Green Bay 21 Chicago 15
Green Bay stats: A. Rodgers 17/28 for 184 yards
G. Jennings 6 receptions for 106 yards
Chicago stats: J. Culter 17/36 for 277 yards
D. Hester 4 receptions for 90 yards and 1 touchdown

NY Giants 23 Washington 17
NY stats: E. Manning 20/29 for 256 yards and 1 touchdown
S. Smith 6 receptions for 80 yards
Washington stats: J. Campbell 19/26 for 211 yard and 1 touchdown
Randell El 7 receptions for 98 yards

San Francisco 20 Arizona 16
SF stats: S. Hill 18/31 for 209 yards
I. Bruce 4 receptions for 74 yards
Az stats: K. Warner 26/44 for 288 yards
T Hightower 12 receptions for 124 yards

Seattle 28 St. Louis 0
Seattle stats. M. Hasselback 25/36 for 259 yards and 3 touchdowns
J Carlson 6 receptions for 94 yards and 2 touchdowns

Atlanta 19 Miami 7
Atlanta stats: M. Ryan 22/36 for 229 yards and 2 touchdowns
Miami stats: C Pennington 21/29 for 201 yards and 1 touchdown

Denver 12 Cincinnati 7
Denver stats: K. Orton 17/28 for 243 yards and 1 touchdown
B. Stokley 1 reception for 84 yards and 1 touchdown
Cincinnati stats: C. Ochocinco 5 receptions for 84 yards

Minnesota 34 Cleveland 20
Minnesota stats: A. Peterson 25 carries for 180 yards and 3 touchdowns
Cleveland stats: B Quinn 21/35 for 205 yards and 1 touchdown

Indianapolis 14 Jacksonville 12
Indianapolis stats: P. Manning 28/38 for 301 yards and 1 touchdown
R. Wayne 10 receptions for 162 yards and 1 touchdown
Jacksonville stats: M Jones-Drew 21 carries for 97 yards and 1 touchdown

New Orleans 45 Detroit 27
New Orleans stats: D. Brees 26/34 for 358 yards and 6 touchdowns
Detroit stats: C. Johnson 3 receptions for 90 yards

Dallas 34 Tampa Bay 21
Dallas stats: T. Romo 16/26 for 353 yards and 3 touchdowns
Tampa Bay stats: B. Leftwich 25/41 for 276 yards and 1 touchdown

Philadelphia 38 Carolina 10
Philadelphia stats: D. Mcnabb 10/18 for 79 yards and 2 touchdowns

Baltimore 38 Kansas City 24
Baltimore stats: J. Flacco 26/43 for 307 yards and 3 touchdowns
R. Rice 19 carries for 108 yards
Kansas City stats: B. Croyle 16/24 for 177 yards and 2 touchdowns
M. Bradley 4 receptions for 74 yards

NY Jets 24 Houston 7
NY stats: T. Jones 20 carries for 107 yards and 2 touchdowns
D. Keller 4 receptions for 94 yards

Pittsburgh 13 Tennessee 10
Pittsburgh stats: S. Holmes 9 receptions for 131 yards and 1 touchdown
H. Ward 8 receptions for 103 yards
B. Roethlisberger 33/43 for 363 yards and 1 touchdown
Tennessee stats: K. Collins 22/35 for 244 yards and 1 touchdown

New England 25 Buffalo 24
New England stats: T. Brady 39/53 for 378 yards and 2 touchdowns
R. Moss 12 receptions for 141 yards
Buffalo stats: T. Edward 15/25 for 212 yards and 2 touchdowns

San Diego 24 Oakland 20
San Diego stats: 24/36 for 252 yards and 1 touchdowns
A. Gates 5 receptions for 85 yards
Oakland stats: J. Russell 12/30 for 208 yards and 1 touchdown

NFL SEASON KICK OFF!!!

Ready for the new NFL season? Your not the only one as millions of fans anticipate the start up of the new NFL 2009 season which begins tomorrow with the Super Bowl champion Pittsburg Steelers set to take on the Tennessee Titans. From coast to coast all NFL fans are optimistic and hopeful on the upcoming season. “My Cardinals made it to the Super Bowl last year, and i’m hoping we can take the next step and win it all this year" said life long Arizona Cardinal fan Roland Washington. Then they’re some who are very confident about the season like Keith Smandal, “My teams the Patriots and now that we got Tom Brady back at quarterback were going to win the super bowl easily this year, I already know, I have complete confidence in my team” said Smandal. Others aren’t so confident but are still hoping for the best, "I just want the Lions to win a couple games because last year was a big disappointment for all Lions fans" said Detroit native Narrell Bennett. Everybody has there own take on the upcoming season whether it be hopeful, optimistic, or confidence.
Many people gage their team’s upcoming season success on what the ESPN analysts predicts. “Usually ESPN is pretty accurate on the best teams in the NFL but they usually miss the surprise teams, and sometimes they don’t even predict the top teams right, so I don’t really listen to what the analysts say” said Washington Redskins fan Terrell Peters. ESPN.com predicts that the top five NFL teams this upcoming season will be the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots, San Diego Chargers, Tennessee Titans, and Philadelphia Eagles. “I never agree with what sports reporters say, I mean where are the Cardinals on the ESPN predictions? They never get any respect, and they went to the super bowl last year” said Washington. Others are happy that their favorite team is mentioned as an elite NFL team. “I’m a Chargers fan and I’m glad that my team is getting good recognition, but they have to back it up on the field this year” said Erica Drake.
Fans from all over the country have different view points on what’s going to happen this season. However nobodies knows the true outcome, and that’s why they play the game. Let the 2009-2010 NFL season begin!

College Freshman? MUST READ

The months of August and September are always a busy time for students from all levels of education, with all the back to school shopping. Books, binders, papers, pencils, pens, and dorm room items are just some of the many things students have to purchase before heading back to school. However there’s always one level of education where there’s always a not so smooth transition, freshman! Being a high school freshman is always a lot different from what students are used to from junior high, but there’s nothing like being a college freshman and the huge transition it is from high school. In this article I interviewed several upper classmen and alumni members for input and advice. This article isn’t meant to scare incoming freshman, it’s meant to help the transition be as easy as possible.
Be prepared, and organized. “When I was a freshman one of my problems was that I wasn’t organized, and to me college is all about being organized with your studying, homework, and free time, once college students do that college becomes much easier.” Said University of California Berkeley student Jackie Lewis.
Get involved and be active. “I would tell incoming freshman to join different groups and organizations, or either play sports or join a fraternity or a sorority. It’s a good way to get out an meet different people and network.” Stephon Jackson a Howard alum.
Remember that your education is your main priority. “College is all about advancing your learning and graduating. It’s important for freshman to introduce themselves to their profesors and go to their office hours to let them know that they’re series about their education.” Said Peete Obida a junior at Howard University.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. “When I was in college I thought I knew it all and didn’t ask any questions. That was a mistake I wish I could take back because I could have got a lot more accomplished if I would’ve asked questions. Freshman need to know that it’s ok to ask questions and there’s no such thing as a dumb question. They need to know that many of the people their asking the questions to had the same questions when they were freshman themselves.” Said Trisha Scott a University of Maryland alum.
Have fun. “A lot of freshman are scared of college and think its nothing but hard work. College is a lot of work, but it’s also important for student to have fun. It’s ok to go out to a party, a sporting event or to hang out with friends. College years are many times the best years in a persons life so it’s very important to enjoy your college years while they last.” Said Mandy Terrance a Howard University alum.
The five categories above were the most popular among the people I interviewed. I hope this blog post can help all you freshman out their have a smooth and peaceful transition. Have fun, and have a great year class on 2013!!!

IM BACK

After a long break im officially back to talk about all the latest news an gossip. Stay tuned to my blog for information!

Today's Playoff Recap

Los Angeles Lakers 113 Utah Jazz 100. Kobe Bryant lead LA with 24 points, Carlos Boozer had 27 for Utah. Lakers lead the series 1-0. 

Philadelphia 76ers 100 Orlando Magic 98. Andre Iguodala had 20 points for the 76ers and Dwight Howard had 31 for the Magic. 76ers lead the series 1-0.

Atlanta Hawks 90 Miami Heat 64. Josh Smith led Atlanta with 23 and Dwayne Wade led Miami with 19 points. The Atlanta Hawks lead the series 1-0.

Denver Nuggets 113 New Orleans Hornets 84. Chauncey Billups led the Nuggets with 36 points Chris Paul led the Hornets with 21. Denver leads the series 1-0.

Todays playoffs match ups include Chicago at Boston and Dallas at San Antonio 

NBA NEWS!!!

The Playoffs started today with a bang! Here are the latest results!

Chicago Bulls 105 Boston Celtics 103. Rose for the Bulls had 31 points and Rondo led the Celtics with 29. The Bulls lead the series 1-0.

Cleveland Cavaliers 102 Detriot Pistons 84. Lebron James for the Cavaliers had 38 and Stucky led the Pistons with 20. Cavaliers lead the series 1-0.

Dallas Mavericks 105 San Antonio Spurs 97. Howard had 25 points for the Mavericks and Duncan led the Spurs with 27. The Mavericks lead the series 1-0.

Houston Rockets 108 Portland Tral Blazers 81. Brooks has 27 points and Roy led the Blazers with 21. The Rockets lead the series 1-0.

Whos going to win the MVP?

The NBA regular season is now over, and everyone is asking who will win this year’s MVP? Will Kobe Bryant repeat? Will Dwayne Wade win it? Will Lebron James take the MVP award? What about Dwight Howard, or Chris Paul?
Each player deserves to win it in their own right, having accomplished so much during the season. They all have their teams in the playoffs. However, there can only be one most valuable player. Here’s a look at the five leading candidates and why they deserve the MVP award.

Kobe Bryant: Kobe Bryant has had another stellar season in his 12th year in the NBA. He’s currently averaging 27 points, 4 assist and 5 rebounds per game. He has led the Los Angeles Lakers to a No. 1 seed in the Western Conference, and they have the second best record in the NBA. “Kobe is having a great season he is definitely in the MVP discussing,” said Robert Taylor a Lakers fan from California.

Dwayne Wade: NBA announcers often describe Dwayne Wade’s season as a success with very little, that’s what he has done with the Miami Heat this season. Dwayne Wade is averaging 29 points, 7 assist and 5 rebounds per game this season. “The only person that I know on the Miami Heat is Dwayne Wade,” said Bryant Leaphart a college student from South Carolina. Most NBA fans feel the same, even Heat fans. “The Miami Heat don’t have a very good roster outside of Dwayne Wade and Michael Beasley,” said Blair Turner a Miami Heat fan from California. However Dwayne Wade has his team in the No. 5 spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. If the MVP voters base their decision on the most valuable player to their team, then Wade has a real good chance at winning it. “I don’t think Wade is going to win, because his team isn’t really good,” said Leaphart. NBA fans will just have to wait and see if Wade’s roster will hurt his chances at winning.

Lebron James: Given the nickname “King James” by all media networks and a majority of basketball fans, Lebron James has been nothing short of the king of basketball this season. Many basketball analyst and fans regard him as the best player in the world. He’s averaging 27 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assist this season. “I used to think it was Kobe but now I’m starting to think Lebron James is the best,” said Peete Claver-Obinna a college student from Connecticut. The Cleveland Cavaliers have the best record in the NBA, and have a No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. “If the MVP voters base their decision on who is the best player in the NBA, and which team has the best record in the NBA, then the MVP trophy belongs to Lebron James,” said Peete Claver-Obinna.

Dwight Howard: Many fans think Dwight Howard is the best big man in the NBA. However what surprises many fans is how successful his team has been this year.”Dwight Howard is having his best season in the NBA this year, although I don’t think he has a shot to win MVP,” says Charles Tucker a college student from Florida. He’s averaging 21 points, 13 rebounds and 2 blocks a game this season. Dwight Howard has led the Orlando Magic to a surprising No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. From a possible playoff team, the Magic team has become a possible title contender. “I hope Dwight Howard wins the MVP award. He deserves it because he’s having a really good season, and big men never win,” said Bobby Thistle an Orlando Magic fan from California.

Chris Paul: The New Orleans Hornets have had an inconsistent season. Players have been injured, and even traded away. However Chris Paul has been the only constant in the New Orleans Hornets line up each and every night. Known to NBA fans as the best point guard in the NBA, Chris Paul has lead the Hornets to a No. 5 seed in the Western Conference. He’s averaging 22 points, 11 assist and 3 steals this season. “Chris Paul is the best point guard in the NBA; he should of have won the MVP last year, we’ll see if they give it to him this year,” said Aaron Fleming a college student from Maryland.

The NBA season is now over and the MVP discussion is heating up. Will it be Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade, Lebron James, Dwight Howard, or Chris Paul? You heard what some fans said? They all deserve it but only one can win. Who would you vote for?

Big Month For The Washington Redskins

It’s that time of the year. NFL schedules have just come out, and the NFL draft is coming up on April 25-26. Every NFL fan is wondering who their team will draft, who will they pick up in free agency, or what trades will they make. “The NFL off season is an exciting time for football fans,” said Jamal Jones a Redskins fan. For Washington Redskins fans the big free agent pick up has already happened. They are known for signing free agents in the off season, and making trades, which has always sparked much debate if the Redskins management is building the franchise the right way. “The Redskins should use better trading decisions that don’t involve their draft picks, so they have a younger team to build around,” said Redskins fan Ron Hill. Teams like the San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots, and the Indianapolis Colts have built successful teams by building their team through the draft. The method of building a team through the draft is viewed as the traditional way. Although signing big name free agents is the sexier choice, but may not be the most successful. “I think the Chargers have been so successful recently because they build their team through the draft, and I think the Redskins should do the same,” Said Bobby Thistle a Chargers fan from California. However the signing of Albert Haynesworth the 2008 defensive player of the year is as big as it gets for the Redskins. “He is expected to shore up an already solid defensive line,” said Veronica Mosley a Redskins fan from DC. However on April 25 and 26 the Redskins and every other NFL team will have one focus. The NFL Draft, where the Redskins seem to be more focused on adding young players then in years past.
Washington Redskins fans know that last year was a disappointing season. They started off great with a 6 and 2 record, but slowed down towards the end of the season finishing 8 and 8, and missing the playoffs. “We have to pick it up from last season,” said Veronica Mosley. Though the Redskins had a disappointing season fans know their team isn’t far from much success. This years draft fans are hoping for key additions to help them have a successful 2009 season. The Redskins first pick is in the first round number 13. They also have several other picks in the seven round draft. “They have a lot of areas they can approve upon such as offensive line, defensive end, outside linebacker, and wide receiver,” said Melvin Smith a DC native and life long Redskins fan. It’s widely expected that they will draft players within those positions on April 25 and 26. ESPN.com has also reported the Redskins are looking into taking an offensive lineman, or an outside linebacker for their first couple picks. “I feel like they need some more offensive firepower or they need to draft a defensive end or linebacker, because they were at the bottom of the NFL in sack,” said DC native Aaron Fleming. Fans are expecting a successful draft. From the years passed the Redskins have had limited draft picks because of trades. This year will be different though because they Redskins have five out of seven picks.
Washington Redskins fan are confident about next season, “I expect the Redskins to be more consistent and make the playoffs,” said David Hill a DC native, and Redskins fan. He and other fans are expecting big things this year, and the 2009 season begins with the NFL draft. April 25 and 26 will be the first step towards a successful 2009 season for the Washington Redskins.

BIG Day for DC sports

Today is a big day for DC sports. The Washington Wizards have hired Flip Saunders to become the head coach for next season. The deal is being reported as 4 years and 19 million dollars. Intern head Coach Ed Tapscott will return to the teams front office staff next season, and will coach the Wizards final regular season game tonight against the Celtics in Boston.

In other sports news, the NHL playoffs starts today, an unlike the Wizard the Washington Capitols will be playing. They host the New York Rangers tonight at 7 in the Verizon Center.

And just right up the road from the Verizon Center the Washington Nationals will host the Philadelphia Phillies at National Park tonight at 7.
So DC sports fans will have a lot of options to choose from tonight

Disappointing Season Is Over, What’s Next For The Wizards

The NBA playoffs are about to begin. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, and the Boston Celtics are the clear front runners. However local Washington DC fans all have a common question, what happened to the Washington Wizards? The Washington Wizards disappointing season has thankfully come to and end. They finished with a 19 and 63 record. Many Wizards fans say it’s one of the worst seasons in franchise history. However they’re many reasons why the Wizards had a major downfall compared to seasons in the past. The reasons begin with players, and coaches and end with the injuries.
Let’s face it Wizards fans the Washington Wizards roster isn’t good enough to compete against top notch NBA teams. Yes Antawn Jamison, Gilbert Arenas, and Caron Butler make a solid big three, but what about everyone else? The Wizards have no solid shooting guard. Deshawn Stevenson and Dominic McGuire are average but they are primarily back up shooting guards. They need a more explosive shooting guard who can create their own shot and defend perimeter players well. Another need is at center. Brendan Haywood is a good defender, but that’s about it. He has yet to find any type of offensive game since coming into the league. Andray Blatche has potential but he’s young and needs time to grow into his potential. Another weakness to the Wizards is their bench. They have a young bench with potential, but the problem is potential doesn’t win right away it takes time, and solid coaching. Which leads to the next problem.
The Wizards fired a good coach! Eddie Jordan was just coaching the NBA all star game not to long ago, and just because of a slow start he’s fired? That’s a front office mistake. Wizard players for the most part loved Coach Jordan, he was known as a players coach. Ed Tapscott the intern head coach isn’t ready to be an NBA head coach, that’s why he’s labeled as an intern. How is Ed Tapscott an upgrade from Eddie Jordan? Can anybody come up with any reasons? If you cant your in the majority. With coaching changes all the potential talked about above gets put on hold, and the process of reaching the potential slows down. So the blame can’t solely be put on the Wizards young players. The front office needs blame too. However the resent hiring of Flip Saunders as head coach for next season will be an upgrade.
Another problem is injuries, and what bigger problem was there then Gilbert Arenas. When the Wizards signed Gilbert Arenas to the biggest contract in franchise history 120 million dollars, did they know he was going to spend the first two years mostly watching on the bench? Yes he’s a special talent, and a franchise player, but he can’t lead this team on the bench. Sure its not his fault he was hurt, but many Wizards fans are shaking their heads about his production over the last two years, and wondering why the Wizards would sign him for such a big contract if he’s not playing. Other players have been injured as well such as Brendan Haywood and Deshawn Stevenson throughout the season, but neither was as long or as damaging as Arenas.
Those are the three main reasons why your team finished 19 and 63 Washington Wizards fans. David Hill a Wizards fan and a D.C. native shares a common feeling among a lot of Wizards fan. “I feel disappointed about how the season went, but optimistic about it because the young players got time to play and get experience.” Wizard’s fans for the most part remain optimistic because there is hope for next year. Everybody is coming back healthy including the 120 million dollar man. The young players got another year of experience which helps, and Flip Saunders is respected an experienced coach who will help a lot. Also don’t forget about trades, and the NBA draft! Don’t worry about this season Wizards fans hopefully there’s a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel.

Perfect Season!!!

UConn has successful finished what the New England Patriots couldnt do two years ago. Have a perfect season and win the national championship. In another dominating performance number 1 UConn beat number 3 Louisville 76 to 54. UConn was lead by their three stars Renee Montgomery, Maya Moore, and Tina Charles. Montgomery and Moore are usually the most publisized ones but this night belonged to Tina Charles. In arguably her best game of the season Charles had 25 points and 19 rebounds. Angel McCoughtry finished off her senior year at Louisville with 23 points.

North Carolina

The North Carolina Tar Heels are the 2009 NCAA National Champions!!!
In mondays showdown number 1 North Carolina beat Michigan State 89 to 72. North Carolina dominated the game from the opening tip, they even led Michigan State by 27 at one point. Ty Lawson led the Tar Heels with 21 points and 8 steals. Goran Suton led the way for Michigan State in a losing effort with 17 points and 11 rebounds. North Carolina shooting guarde Wayne Ellington was named Final Four MVP, he had 19 points in the championship. "It was a great game my school dominated Michigan State. They cancelled class on gameday and had a rally the day after." said North Carolina student Krystin Mccurly.

Mens Championship Tonight

Number 1 North Carolina and Number 2 Michigan State are set to face off tonight in the National Championship game. The games starts at 9:21 EST in Detroit. Stay tuned to my blog for a post game recap!

Women NCAA Basketball Final

The Womens Final four didnt disappoint lastnite, with one thrilling victory, and another blowout performance. In the first match up number 3 Louisville shocked  number 1 Oklahoma 61 to 59. Angel Mccgougtry  led Louisville with 18 points and 11 rebounds. The victory shocked Oklahoma and Courtney Paris. The star player had made a promise prior to the final four saying she will pay back her four year scholarship if Oklahoma doesn't win a championship. The scholarship is 64 thousand dollars. After the game Courtney Paris told espn.com "im good on it." Referring to the promise she made. 

The other game was not a surprise. Number 1 Connecticut beat number 2 Stanford 83 to 64. Renee Montgomery and Maya Moore led Connecticut with 26 and 24 points respectively. Connecticut is posed to finish their remarkable undefeated season with a national championship on Tuesday. Connecticut and Louisville are set to face off on Tuesday.

NBA MVP RACE

The NBA regular season is coming down to the wire, and everyone is asking who will win this years MVP? Will Kobe Bryant repeat? Will Dwayne Wade win it? Will Lebron James take the MVP award? What about Dwight Howard, or Chris Paul? Each player deserves to win it in their own right, having accomplished so much during the season. They all have their teams in the playoffs. However there can only be one most valuable player. Here’s a look at the five leading candidates and why they deserve the MVP award.

Kobe Bryant: Kobe Bryant is having another stellar season in his 12th season in the NBA. He’s currently averaging 27 points 4 assist and 5 rebounds per game. He has led the Los Angeles Lakers to a number one seed in the Western Conference, and they have the second best record in the NBA. “Kobe is having a great season he is definitely in the MVP discussing.” Said Robert Taylor.

Dwayne Wade: Succeed with very little. That’s what Dwayne Wade has done with his Miami Heat team this season. Dwayne Wade is averaging 29 points 7 assist and 5 rebounds per game this season.” The only person that I know on the Miami Heat is Dwayne Wade.” Said Bryant Leaphart. Sadly this is true for a lot of NBA fans. The Miami Heat don’t have a very good team, it’s the truth. However Dwayne Wade has his team currently in the number five spot in the Eastern Conference which means there practically guaranteed a playoff spot. If the voter base their decision off of the most valuable player to their team then Wade has a real good chance at winning it.

Lebron James: Known as “King James” Lebron James has been nothing short of the king of basketball this season. Now regarded as the best player in the world, Lebron has his team being called the best in the NBA. He’s averaging 27 points 7 rebounds and 7 assist this season. “I used to think it was Kobe but now in starting to thing Lebron James is the best.” Said Peete Claver-Obinna. The Cleveland Cavaliers have the best record in the NBA, and have a number one seed in the Eastern Conference. If the MVP is based off of the best player in the NBA and the best team in the NBA the MVP trophy belongs to Lebron James.

Dwight Howard: The best big man in the NBA is arguably on the most surprising team in the NBA. Dwight Howard’s Orlando Magic have had a very successful season this year. He’s averaging 21 points 13 rebounds and 2 blocks a game this season. Dwight Howard has led the Orlando Magic to a surprising number three seed in the Eastern Conference. From a possible playoff team the Magic have become a possible title contender. “I hope Dwight Howard wins the MVP award he deserves it, because he’s having a really good season and big men never win.” Said Bobby Thistle

Chris Paul: The New Orleans Hornets have an inconsistent season. Players have been injured, and even traded away. However Chris Paul has been the only constant in the New Orleans Hornets line up each and every night. Known as the best point guard in the NBA Chris Paul has lead the Hornets to a number five seed in the Western Conference. He’s averaging 22 points 11 assist and 3 steals this season. “Chris Paul is the best point guard in the NBA; he should of won the MVP last year, will see if they give it to him this year.” Said Aaron Fleming.

With the NBA regular season widening down the MVP discussion is heating up. Who will it be Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade, Lebron James, Dwight Howard, or Chris Paul? They all deserve it but only one can win. Who would you vote for?

A interview on me!

1) Who are you idolsGod, my dad, my mom, Michael Jordan, Tupac, Martin Luther King, Jackie Robinson, Ali, Nat Turner, Rosa Parks, Oprah, and the rest of my family.2) Where will you be 2 hours from now?Since its 12 and I have practice tomorrow I’ll be sleep lol3) Have you ever kissed anyone who's name starts with an E?Yeah4) Wheres your best friend?I have a lot but their all over the country. 5) Does anyone love you?Yes6) Can you make yourself sneeze?I can do everything lol7) Have you ever passed out?No8) What are you doing tomorrow?Practice and…9) Are you easily confused?Nah10)Do you think you would make a good husband?:Yes11) Where were you at 9am this morning?Practice12) Do you fall for people easily?No13) Everything happens for a reason?Yes15) Last thing you got in the mail?College stuff, ESPN magazine and Sports Illustrated16) What does your last text message read?I got two at the same time lol… “Thanks, u 2! Good nite” and “Hi”

17) When is the last time you saw number 1 on your top friends?I see Obama on tv everyday lol
18) What are you listening to right now?Tupac19) How has the week been?Just started but good20) Is there something you wish you could tell someone but can't?No I say what’s on my mind21) Would you kiss the last person you kissed again?Yeah ;)22) Does the last person you shared a bed with mean anything to you?Yeah…23) Do you sleep with the TV on?Sometimes24) Are you too forgiving?Nope
25) What do you want your future career to be?Athlete, and a Politician26) Do you want to be like your parents?Yes they are my role models I have the BEST parents in the world!27) Do you still have pictures of you & your ex?Yeah we still friends

29) Who do you miss?My sister

30) Is this fun?Yes

31) Are you signed onto AIM?Yes todballa23

32) If you could have any car what would it be?Escalade and a BENZ

33) What are you stressed out about?Nothing much

34) Do you have anything in your pockets right now?I got Jordan basketball shorts on so nothing
35) How many windows are open on your computer?3
37) In the past week have you gotten your hair cut?Yes
38) What can't you wait for?Complete ALL my goals

John Calipari going to Kentucky

After spending nine successful seasons with Memphis John Calipari has accepted Kentucky's coaching job. Espn reported yesterday that coach Calipari has accepted an eight year $31.65 million dollar contract. The deal makes him the highest paid college basketball coach. Kentucky has finally got their high profiled coach they have been hungry for since Tubby Smith left.

However the deal has made Memphis fans sad. Many fans are unsure about where the program will go, and many star players are leaving the team to go to the NBA. The much hyped recruiting class has also said they will no longer attend Memphis, and are now looking at other schools. 

March Madness(cont)

“What happened to my bracket” this is what everyone is saying this time of year when March Madness comes to a close. Arguable the best and most watched sporting event in the United States. March madness is like a national holiday that last about three weeks.
It provides a field of 64 teams all fighting to reach the final four and with a little luck win a national championship. Now we are down to the final four in this year’s tournament. North Carolina and Connecticut are the favorites, with Villanova and Michigan State all fighting to prove otherwise. This field of four is sure not to disappoint. March Madness has provided us with many buzzer beater shots like Christian Laettner shot to propell Duke over Kentucky. It has sparked careers of superstars and legends like Michael Jordan, and it has given us cynderella stories like Davidson of last year. What will be the story this year? So far the stories have been about the lack of upsets and the higher seeds like North Carolina and Connecticut dominating the tournament.
It seems like everybody is in on the action nation wide. Las Vegas gambling executives say that March madness is arguable the biggest gambling event in Las Vegas. No other sporting event comes close in gambling revenue other then the super bowl. Its not just Vegas were all the betting is going on. Offices from all over the country have made their picks on the march madness action also. March madness is famous for the office pools. However the tournament doesn’t stop with Las Vegas or the office pools. People from all over then country take their picks and bet in small groups, with close friends, family, or working peers. Some may even just play for the fun of it, just for the thrill, and love of the event. President Obama is even in on the action telling ESPN that “he is a big fan.” President Obama picked North Carolina to win it all telling ESPNs Andy Krattz that, “I'm going with experience.” Also saying that, “I'm counting on you” referring to North Carolina. President Obama isn’t the only high profile name who had made their tournament picks. Jamal Lewis of the Cleveland Browns has his own March madness tournament with other high profile Cleveland athletes like Mo Williams, Daniel Gibson, and Grady Seizmore all taking part. The tournament brackets have even hit the rap world, with Fabolous, Bow Wow, and Capone-N-Noreaga all being reported on having betting pools with other rappers and friends.
Filling out a tournament bracket, and seeing how good your doing during and after the tournament is a huge thrill to sports fans. “It makes you feel like your actually part of the tournament, it adds to the excited to fill out a bracket” said Bryant Leapart a South Carolina native who is rooting for the Tar Heels. Like President Obama he’s not the only one pulling for North Carolina, Brandon Walton another North Carolina fan said, “It’s one of my favorite times of year, I’m a big sports fan and this the super bowl and the NBA finals are my favorite sporting events. The thing I like about the NCAA tournament is that is last so long.” They all agree that this year their picks that they’ve made havent been as successful as last year. Alex Coleman said, “ I like it because of all the good basketball games, and plus basketball is my favorite sport. This year has been good, I’m interested to see who’s going to win.” It’s not just men taking part of this event even women love the tournament Jackie Lewis said that, “Im so excited about the tournament, I get even more excited when I fill out my bracket. However I only have one team left in the final four, which is North Carolina” The four people I interviewed may not know eachother but they all have something in common. All of them had a tournament bracket filled out.
Not only is it all the betting, its just the thrill, and the tradition that makes this tournament so special. March Madness is almost over, but one things for sure a lot of americans are still holding on to their brackets tight, even if they have a whole lot of red ex marks over teams and games.

Why didnt americans give the World Baseball Classic a Chance?

Some may feel that the World baseball classic is pointless. A lot of Americans didn’t even know when an where it was going on. To the average sports fan the World baseball classic isn’t a point of interest. Sports fans tend to be focused on basketball during the months of February and March; with the NBA season gearing up towards playoffs and the NCAA March madness drama. With that being said let me give you a rundown of what most you guys didn’t know about this baseball event if anything at all. The World Baseball Classic known as the “WBC” is an international baseball tournament. The event is sanctioned by the International Baseball Federation. It was originally created by Major League Baseball the Major League Baseball Players Association, and other professional baseball leagues and their players associations around the world. The event was first held in 2006 and its second edition was this month both held here in the United States. So now that we got the general information out of the way do most american care yet probably not. However the World baseball classic had several teams from every major continent, and the games strentched from Florida to Califonia. While americans may not care other countries do.
Baseball is known as the United States national passed time. However other countries belief that baseball is their sport and they’re the best at it. Coutries like the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Venezula, China, South Korea, Netherland, and two time champion Japan. For these countries the world baseball classic is just as competitive and meaningful as the Olympics. Players take the game seriously. ESPN even reported that the country of the Dominican Republic was ashamed of its performance in this years classic. The Cuba vs Venezula game is a known rivalry between the two countries, and anytime two Asian teams meet it’s a battle for bragging rights. “Other countries take the World baseball classic seriously, and it seems like the United States don’t care as much.” Said Richard Thistle a California resident.
When one looks at major league baseball in the United States maybe its not hard to see why americans have little interest in the classic. The major league is filled with players from the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Japan, China ect. Most of the all star arent even from the United States. Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Ichiro Suzuki are all from other countries just to name a few. “I think Americans know that were not as good as other countries in baseball.” Said Omar Bethea. Many Americans hold that same theory thinking that Americans don’t care about the world baseball classic because they know the American team isn’t going to win based off the numbers of foreigners playing in the major league baseball in America. It’s sad but its most likely true, Americans are just afraid to say it.
The World baseball classic is a great sporting event that springs several countries together to achieve a common goal, which is to be called the best baseball team in the world. Yes American we can call baseball are national past time but we are no longer the best at it. Perhaps Japan baseball player told ESPN the truth when he said, “I believe that we were the two best teams in the world (Japan and Korea) Asia is best, world best in baseball, and Korea and Japan were able to fight until the end. It was a great glory for all of us." Yes other countries do care, Americans we should care about the World baseball classic to even if we aren’t the worlds best at it. Hey at least we have basketball.

Why didnt americans give the World Baseball Classic a Chance?

Some may feel that the World baseball classic is pointless. A lot of Americans didn’t even know when an where it was going on. To the average sports fan the World baseball classic isn’t a point of interest. Sports fans tend to be focused on basketball during the months of February and March; with the NBA season gearing up towards playoffs and the NCAA March madness drama. With that being said let me give you a rundown of what most you guys didn’t know about this baseball event if anything at all. The World Baseball Classic known as the “WBC” is an international baseball tournament. The event is sanctioned by the International Baseball Federation. It was originally created by Major League Baseball the Major League Baseball Players Association, and other professional baseball leagues and their players associations around the world. The event was first held in 2006 and its second edition was this month both held here in the United States. So now that we got the general information out of the way do most american care yet probably not. However the World baseball classic had several teams from every major continent, and the games strentched from Florida to Califonia. While americans may not care other countries do.
Baseball is known as the United States national passed time. However other countries belief that baseball is their sport and they’re the best at it. Coutries like the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Venezula, China, South Korea, Netherland, and two time champion Japan. For these countries the world baseball classic is just as competitive and meaningful as the Olympics. Players take the game seriously. ESPN even reported that the country of the Dominican Republic was ashamed of its performance in this years classic. The Cuba vs Venezula game is a known rivalry between the two countries, and anytime two Asian teams meet it’s a battle for bragging rights. “Other countries take the World baseball classic seriously, and it seems like the United States don’t care as much.” Said Richard Thistle a California resident.
When one looks at major league baseball in the United States maybe its not hard to see why americans have little interest in the classic. The major league is filled with players from the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Japan, China ect. Most of the all star arent even from the United States. Alex Rodriguez, David Ortiz, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Ichiro Suzuki are all from other countries just to name a few. “I think Americans know that were not as good as other countries in baseball.” Said Omar Bethea. Many Americans hold that same theory thinking that Americans don’t care about the world baseball classic because they know the American team isn’t going to win based off the numbers of foreigners playing in the major league baseball in America. It’s sad but its most likely true, Americans are just afraid to say it.
The World baseball classic is a great sporting event that springs several countries together to achieve a common goal, which is to be called the best baseball team in the world. Yes American we can call baseball are national past time but we are no longer the best at it. Perhaps Japan baseball player told ESPN the truth when he said, “I believe that we were the two best teams in the world (Japan and Korea) Asia is best, world best in baseball, and Korea and Japan were able to fight until the end. It was a great glory for all of us." Yes other countries do care, Americans we should care about the World baseball classic to even if we aren’t the worlds best at it. Hey at least we have basketball.

March Madness!!!

Its March you know what that means? March Madness is here! Arguable the best and most watched sporting event in the United States. March Madness provides a field of 64 teams all fighting to reach the final four and with a little luck win a national championship. March Madness has provided us with many buzzer beater shots like Christian Laettner shot to propell Duke over Kentucky. It has sparked careers of superstars and legends like Michael Jordan, and it has gave us cynderella stories like Davidson of last year. March madness is like a national holiday that last about three weeks.
It seems like everybody is in on the action nation wide. Las Vegas gambling executives say that its arguable the biggest gambling event in Las Vegas. No other sporting event comes close in gambling revenue other then the super bowl. Its not just Vegas were all the betting is going on. Offices from all over the country get in on the march madness action also. March madness is famous for the office pools. However the tournament doesn’t stop with Las Vegas of the office pools. People from all over then country take their picks and bet in small groups, with close friends, family, or working peers. Some may even just play for the fun of it, just for the thrill, and love of the event. President Obama is even in on the action telling ESPN that’ “he is a big fan.” President Obama picked North Carolina to win it all telling ESPNs Andy Krattz that, “I'm going with experience.” Also saying that he’s “I'm counting on you” referring to North Carolina. President Obama isn’t the only high profile name making their tournament picks. Jamal Lewis of the Cleveland Browns has his own March madness tournament with other high profile Cleveland athletes like Mo Williams, Daniel Gibson, and Grady Seizmore all taking part. The tournament brackets have even hit the rap world, with Fabolous, Bow Wow, and Capone-N-Noreaga all being reported on having betting pools with other rappers and friends.
Recently I asked a couple basketball fans how they thought about march madness. Brandon Walton a North Carolina fan said, “It’s one of my favorite times of year, I’m a big sports fan and this the super bowl and the NBA finals are my favorite sporting events. The thing I like about the NCAA tournament is that is last so long.” Alex Coleman said, “ I like it because of all the good basketball games, and plus basketball is my favorite sport.” Omar Bethea says, “ It’s my favorite event other then the super bowl, im a big football fan, but the NCAA tournament is another must see.” It’s not just men taking part of this event even women love the tournament Jackie Lewis said that, “Im so excited about the tournament, I get even more excited when I fill out my bracket.” The four people I interviewed may not know eachother but they all have something in common. All of them had a tournament bracket filled out.
Not only is it all the betting, its just the thrill, and the tradition that makes this tournament so special. March Madness is here, let the three weeks of thrills, excitement, traditon, and betting begin!

BIG Weekend in College Basketball

College basketball fans were in for a treat last weekend. With the two big games Saturday and Sunday. The first game was Saturday afternoon with number 4 Pittsburgh beating then number 1 Connecticut 70 to 60. Sam Young led the way for the Pittsburgh with a career high 31 point and 10 rebounds. AJ Price led the way for Connecticut in a losing effort with 19 points.

In the other marque match up of the weekend presented number 2 North Carolina beat number 7 Duke 79 to 71. Tyler Hansbrough paced North Carolina with 17 points in a balanced scoring effort. Jon Scheyer led all scorers with 24 points.

Next week is another big weekend for college basketball with the selection of the 64 NCAA tournament teams. State tuned for more information!

Trade Deadlines Over?

Two key additions happened after the NBA Trade Deadline, that were suppose to happen before the deadline. However the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics acquired more talent by teams buying out the contracts of their players. The Cleveland Cavaliers picked up Joe Smith from Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Boston Celtics picked up Stephon Marbury from the New York Knicks. Both players were picked up to bolster the rosters of the two contenders.

I asked two basketball fans what they thought about the moves.  Jamal Gray a Boston Celtics fan believe, "it will help the Celtics repeat, and Marbury will be a key player for them. I also interviewed Steven Taylor a Cavaliers fan and he said, "As long as Lebron James has help, the Cleveland will have itself a championship, he has a pretty good team around him".

Interview

Recently I intervied Professor Sturgis who is also a very accomplished author. Their were a lot of interviewers in the audience but here are some of the Q&A we had:

What made you write a book about Afro Centric Weddings? Their isnt any rules about Afro Centric Weddings so I wanted to write a book about it.

Your new book is about black women dating outside their race why? I was suprised that 60% of black women are ok with dating outside their race. I myself have dated a Puerto Rican.

How do you feel about black love and the black family? I feel like black love is dying. Today we have more options, and a lot of black men arent available due to jail or various reasons. Plus black women are changing.

Who are you role models? My parents

You've had many jobs which one was your favorite? I really like working for myself, but all my jobs have been great.

What is your next goal in writing or teaching? I want to write a play. I want to be a multi media person.

This interview was done by students in the writing for media class. Article was written by Tyler Dragon.

Hope you guys like it! Stay tune for more interviews!