Red Sox @ Orioles Preview

Josh Beckett takes the hill tonight and will try to build of a decent start last time out. Kind of sad that all he has to hang his hat on is a 6 1/3 outing letting up 3 runs on 4 hits with 7 Ks. Not that it's a bad outing, but Beckett certainly has been a disappointment all season with his 6.50 ERA.

Is there good news? Well there is always good news. Beckett is 5-1 with a 2.98 ERA in 9 career starts in Baltimore, and he did look better last time out. Going against him is youngster Brian Matusz. He's 3-1 with a 2.32 ERA in his last five starts, and 1-0 with a 2.41 ERA in three starts versus Boston this season. He is going to be very good, but if the Red Sox are going to make the playoffs they can't lose to teams like Baltimore.

Boston is currently 6 1/2 games out of the Wild Card/AL East, and I think they are done, but if they want any believers they are going to need to crush teams like this.

Red Sox win 6-4
Player of the Game: V-Mart
Game starts at 7:05pm on NESN.

Mark Ingram To Miss Week 1

Alabama running back Mark Ingram suffered a knee injury late in Monday's practice, coach Nick Saban announced in a statement Tuesday, and has been ruled out for Saturday night's season opener against San Jose State.

This is not anything serious, and Alabama will have no problem rolling over San Jose State. Backup Trent Richardson who is only a sophomore will take his place, and he is far from a stiff. Last season he ran 145 times for 751 yards with eight touchdowns, which is really impressive for a Freshman. Saban says that this is not an injury that should affect Ingram the rest of the season, so this seems precautionary decision against a weak opponent.

Rich Harden Sent To Bullpen

"Rich Harden is headed to the Rangers' bullpen after his second start since coming off the disabled list was not as effective as his first. The Rangers decided to switch fifth starters again, this time replacing Harden with left-hander Derek Holland, who will take the mound Friday against Minnesota (ESPN)."

Listen baseball world it is time for everyone to realize that Rich Harden is not good, and has really never been good. He has never won more then 11 games in a season, his ERA the last two seasons is in the mid 4's (5.17 this year). So, really I don't want to hear his name again. Holland is a solid young pitcher, and should give them better outings. The only way Harden can be useful is if he gives them a hand in the bullpen, and I bet this little experiment also does go well.

Why Not?

Why not watch this hot girl let go too soon?

Guess There Isn't Much Else To Do In Oregon

"A Hillsboro man sure picked the wrong time and place to 'moon' someone. On Sunday morning, just after midnight, an Oregon State Police trooper says he spotted a man standing in the eastbound lane of Highway 224, about 15 miles east of Estacada. The man had his pants down around his ankles and was mooning the trooper's approaching patrol car.

According to the Oregon State Police, when the trooper pulled over he found an extremely intoxicated man and it turned the guy was on parole and wasn't supposed to be drinking. The trooper arrested the man, identified as 22-year-old Gregory Holzer, on a probation violation and transported him to the Clackamas County Jail (katu.com)."

Although it's really never a good idea to moon a cop, it really is a bad idea to do while standing in the middle of the highway, while under parole. This moron deserves to go to jail for awhile, and if I was running the country I'd just kill him. Think of it as evolution, we are just better off killing people like this, so we don't have to deal with his offspring's stupidity down the road.

Bruins Still Shopping Savard

Bruins are “actively shopping” center Marc Savard despite this month’s news that his contract has been under investigation by the NHL.

“The investigation by the NHL definitely made teams back off from their interest in Savard, but the team is still open to trading him and trying to,” a source told Murphy (ESPN).

I'll be honest I don't want to see them trade Savard. I really like the team the Bruins have right now, and I don't think there is much more they need to add. The only way I would deal him is if they get great a really good defenseman, or a wing that can score. The Bruins are having cap problems, but I would like to see them either buyout or move Ryder rather then deal Savard. I feel the Bruins could be a special team this year, and trading Savard would only hurt that.

Why Not?

Why not be a little overzealous with a stage drive?

2010 NFL Preview: Pittsburgh Steelers

2009 Record: 9-7

KEY ADDITIONS:
Will Allen, S, Tampa Bay
Arnaz Battle, WR, San Francisco
Larry Foote, LB, Detroit
Byron Leftwich, QB, Tampa Bay
Bryant McFadden, CB, Arizona
Antwaan Randle El, WR, Washington
Jonathan Scott, OT, Buffalo

KEY LOSSES:
Tyrone Carter, S, Free agent
Santonio Holmes, WR, N.Y. Jets
Travis Kirschke, DE, Free agent
Willie Parker, RB, Washington
Darnell Stapleton, G, Free agent
Deshea Townsend, CB, Free agent

Offense:
They have to play at least the first 4 games without Ben Roethlisberger, and that could spell trouble since I have 0 faith in guys like Byron Leftwich, Dennis Dixon, and the ageless Charlie Batch (who really reminds me of Tim Wakefield). To add to those woes the Steelers are also going to have to learn to play without former Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes. There is good news here though. Mike Wallace looks ready for a breakout year, and Hines Ward just doesn't seem to age. Their offensive line should be much improved even with Willie Colon tearing his Achilles tendon in June, and that could be huge when Roethlisberger returns. Mendenhall, in just his second year and his first full season after injury abbreviated his rookie campaign, cut loose for 1,063 yards in just 13 games. I expect big things from him this year, and although I'm a little worried about their depth at RB they should still have a good enough running game to keep them in games while Roethlisberger sits and the corner and thinks about what he did.

Defense:
Casey Hampton is the big guy that makes this whole 3-4 defense work. The key for the Steelers is health. If Polamalu and end Aaron Smith stay healthy then this is a top 3 defense, but if they don't think is really just a little more then an above average unit. Obviously their linebackers are sick no matter who they put out there. It really is the truth. Larry Foote is their run-stopping extraordinaire. Woodley had 13.5 sacks last year, and Lawrence Timmons/James Farrior are great up the middle. Mcfadden and Gay are two underrated CBs, and they should be able to control big name WRs. Like I said if Polamalu is out there and 100% this defense goes from top 10 to top 3.

Overall:
Big Ben made a big mistake, and the team is going to have to pay the price. I expect him to only miss 4 games, and those games are Atlanta, @Tennessee, @Tampa Bay, and Baltimore. I only see them going 1-3 in those game, but once Ben is back this whole team should turnaround. I don't seem them winning this division, but I also don't seem them being out of the race.

2010 Record: 10-6

Leinart To Be Cut?

We talked last week that Derek Anderson may have taken over the #1 QB spot for the Cardinals. Now there are rumors that the Cardinals may cut Leinart. According to these rumors the Cardinals locker room has 0 faith in Leinart, and that he is not a positive influence for the other young QBs (Max Hall and John Skelton) on the roster.

I am really kind of shocked about this. Leinart hasn't been amazing this preseason, but he is completing over 80% of his passes. He has much more upside then Anderson, but I guess when you have guys like Fitzgerald you want a guy who can throw deep, and Leinart hasn't proven he can do that on a consistent basis.

As for all the locker room stuff, I don't really know what to say. I know he was a slacker a couple years ago, but I would be surprised if he still is. If he is fooling around again then it is probably time to let him go, because is he isn't taking it seriously now with Warner gone, then he probably never will.

My prediction is that he is still the week 1 starter though.

Manny Being Annoying

Jayson Stark of ESPN wrote a brilliant column about Manny Ramirez's various exits from city to city. And while the ranks of Manny loyalists here in Boston have dramatically dwindled the past few years, there are still some out there who wish to praise this man.

It's true, the Sox won a pair of World Series thanks in no small part to him. That's two rings more than they'd won in the previous 8 decades. Then again, it was pitching that ultimately won those titles. Manny was indeed an irreplaceable part of those Championships, but not quite as irreplaceable as Derek Lowe in '04, or Josh Beckett in '07.

We didn't hear much about Manny's antics in LA, considering it was a few thousand miles, and a separate League away. But he pulled his same crap. He was always inexplicably hurting and couldn't play. He recently got kicked out of a game for arguing balls and strikes. Can you imagine that? Manny, while in a Red Sox uniform, was more docile at the plate than JD Drew. He'd only get kicked out if he wanted to, or if he didn't care if he did.

In Stark's column, he quotes an unnamed NL executive, who makes an exceedingly poignant point about Mr. Ramirez:

How could a true Hall of Famer be whisked out of town like this in two places? Not a lot of Hall of Famers get put on outright waivers -- just take the contract and he's yours -- two different times, the first time when he's still in his prime, right? You don't see that a whole lot.

Manny's career numbers are indeed astounding. 554 homers, 1,828 RBI so far. A career average of .313, with a .411 OBP and .589 SLG (that's an even 1.000 OPS, which is 9th all-time). Then there's 29 post-season HR in only 111 games, with 78 RBI. 12 time All-Star, 9 time Silver Slugger.

Manny Ramirez, despite that female fertility drug stuff, will likely make the Hall of Fame some day. But will he perhaps have an exit from Cooperstown as dramatic as his exits from Boston and Los Angeles? I wouldn't put it past him to harass some security guard, or maybe slap a fellow inductee during the speeches when he gets in.

-The Commodore

Chick Of The Day

Today's chick is Diana Bello. Mad hot

For more Diana Click Here

Suck It Granny

"A 24-year-old man was charged with false imprisonment of his 66-year-old girlfriend following an argument Wednesday. Arrested was Joshua Dan Porter, of 3533 SW 24th Ave., according to the Gainesville Police Department.

An arrest report states that he and his girlfriend got into an argument. The report says she tried to leave the room, and he closed the door on her hand, shoved her down onto the couch, twisted her nose, hit her on the head with couch pillows and forced her to kiss a picture of her dead husband.

She attempted to leave the residence but Porter blocked the door, according to GPD. The situation calmed down and the woman eventually left. Porter was charged with once count of false imprisonment (gainesville.com)."

Before we start. That picture kind of looks like DP, and that just makes this story all the much better.

Anyways, what the fuck is wrong with this guy? I mean if the chick was younger, and hot then at least you could understand why this kid is going all Aston Kutcher, but the fact is no woman that is 66 and is still attractive to 24 year old men. Sorry ladies, it's just the facts.

So, obviously this DP looking mother fucker is fucked up. Then to make sure that everyone knows that he spends his weekends knocking the dust off this old heffer's cootch, he beats her up. This should be a lesson to all our fans. If you're going to do something weird, don't compound the problem by doing something that you know will make headlines in the local paper.

This kid can say it's "true love", and something that happened in the heat of the moment, but the fact is you are banging someone with an AARP card, and then had the balls to kick the shit out of her. Nice job shitdick, if you end up in jail you're not going to make it out.

Your Car Doesn't Go As Fast As Chapman's Fastball

Aroldis Chapman may be called up to the big leagues next week when rosters expand and thrust right into a pennant race, but Friday he did something most fans, managers, players and even scouts had never seen.Chapman hit 105 mph on the radar gun, which was also the same number that flashed on a scouts gun. And it was no fluke, either, because the readings of his other heaters all registered between 100 and 104 mph. Price quoted one scout saying Chapman's four-seamer was the "best fastball I have ever witnessed (ESPN)."

Hey Red Sox, remember when we had a shot at this guy?

Anyways, this is fucking silly. Chapman is going to be amazing and if the Reds can get in the playoffs he could be one hell of a closer for him. With Strasburg out for the rest of the season, and next year, everyone should turn their attention to this kid, and the Cincinnati Reds. When was the last time you could say that?

Why Not?

Why not dress up list a Storm Trooper and scare the shit out of your buddy's girlfriend?

2010 NFL Preview: Cleveland Browns

2009 Record: 5-11

KEY ADDITIONS:
Sheldon Brown, CB, Philadelphia
Jake Delhomme, QB, Carolina
Scott Fujita, LB, New Orleans
Chris Gocong, LB, Philadelphia
Peyton Hillis, RB, Denver
Tony Pashos, OT, San Francisco
Alex Smith, TE, Philadelphia
Seneca Wallace, QB, Seattle
Benjamin Watson, TE, New England

KEY LOSSES:
Derek Anderson, QB, Arizona
Hank Fraley, OL, St. Louis
Mike Furrey, WR, Washington
Michael Gaines, TE, Free agent
Rex Hadnot, OL, Arizona
Alex Hall, LB, Philadelphia
Steve Heiden, TE, Free agent
Jamal Lewis, RB, Free agent
Brodney Pool, S, N.Y. Jets
Hank Poteat, FS, Free agent
Brady Quinn, QB, Denver
Donte’ Stallworth, WR, Baltimore
Corey Williams, DT, Detroit
Kamerion Wimbley, LB, Oakland

Offense:
This offense was terrible last season with Anderson and Quinn sucking it up under center. So what do they do? They go out and sign the only guy who might be just as bad as those two; Jake Delhomme. Maybe I'm being too hard on him, but he has been pretty bad for a couple seasons how, and it's not like the Browns have a ton to work with. Jerome Harrison returns as the feature back after gaining 862 yards. He blew up at the end of last year, but I just can't buy into it too much. He is a tiny guy (5'9"), and I really see him more as an explosive backup. Browns will use Chris Jennings, James Davis, Peyton Hillis or second-round pick Montario Hardesty as the second back. Mohamed Massaquoi, Brian Robiskie, Mike Furrey and Chansi Stuckey. Hold on I just got sick. Yea, that's just awful, I like Stuckey, but overall this is just a terrible group. Add that up with Delhomme's gunslinger style, and that adds up to a tough year for the Browns offense.

Defense:
Shaun Rogers leads a decent defensive line, problem is he is a shithead, and could be in some trouble with the law. Ahtyba Rubin filled in nicely for Rogers when he was out hurt, and he could build off that. I am still trying to figure out why the Browns traded former first round pick Kamerion Wimbley to Oakland. That could hurt this linebacking core. Scott Fujita and Chris Gocong were picked up to replace him, and Matt Roth, David Bowens, Marcus Benard, Jason Trusnik will also all get a shot, but there isn't too much to get excited about there, though it isn't awful. The strong point is their secondary, which was awful last year, but free agent pickups will help. The Browns made key moves when they traded to acquire cornerback Sheldon Brown from Philadelphia and drafted Joe Haden in the first round. Those guys with the return of cornerback Eric Wright and safety Mike Adams should make a solid unit.

Overall:
The Browns may have gotten a little bit better from last year, but the problem is so did the rest of their division. It's going to be another long year in Cleveland, and I expect Colt McCoy to be starting by week 10.

2010 Record: 4-12

Andy Pettitte Injury Update

Andy Pettitte threw 35 pitches in a bullpen session Sunday and sounded optimistic that he could be back in the New York Yankees' rotation in around two weeks. Pettitte has been on the disabled list since July 19 with a strained left groin and the injury took longer to heal than expected. The Yankees seem much more optimistic that he'll be back in the next couple of weeks.

The Yankees really need Pettitte to be healthy and affective, because Burnett is going down the shitter, and Vasquez has already been sent to the bullpen. The health of Pettitte and A-Rod will be the key to Yankees making the playoffs, and beyond. Personally I think they are in a lot of trouble.

2010 NFL Preview: NFC North

Here is how we see the NFC South playing out...

1. Packers: 13-3
2. Vikings: 8-8
3. Bears: 8-8
4. Lions: 8-8

Why Not?

Why not watch a dog do the cha cha?

Bengals Cut Antonio Bryant

Bryant was a major disappointment after signing a four-year, $28 million contract this offseason with just under $8 million guaranteed.

So the Bengals basically signed this guy gave him 8 million dollars and told him peace. That's a pretty sweet gig if your Bryant though. ESPN is painting a picture as him being a disappointment, but he's probably just pissed. You can blame the surgery he had or whatever, but he thought he would be lining up across from OchoCinco and then they go and sign TO.

I like Bryant and I think he still has some good years in front of him, but this may not have been the best move for the Bengals. Maybe the Patriots will take a look at him... not.

Manny To the White Sox

The Dodgers confirmed that Ramirez will be shipped to the White Sox, tweets Peter Gammons of the MLB Network.

The White Sox have lost nine of 14 and 13 of 20 to fall 4½ games back of AL Central-leading Minnesota with three games left in the season series between the teams. Interestingly enough, the first two stops on their 10-game trip are Cleveland and Boston, two of Ramirez's former clubs.

The White Sox have really done everything in their power to make the playoffs this year. Edwin Jackson has been nothing short of spectacular for them (even though I still question trading Daniel Hudson) and now with Manny to anchor that line up, this should be a fun rest of the year in Chi Town. I know Manny is only batting .311 with 8 HRs and 40 RBI's but he hasn't played much of the year, and with him knowing he has a contract coming he will probably try and finish the year batting close to .400 and have 11 HRs and 30 RBIs in the last month.

I don't know if it will be able to get the White Sox past the Twins but it will definitely be fun to watch.

(K Sucks, Rondo 4 Life, enjoy your pick and roll game fail miserably this year once Boozer goes down with an injury)

What The Red Sox Are Up Against

So the Sox are in a little bit of a hole right now and with the Yankees and Rays projected to win 99 games, the Sox will need to win 100. With 32 games left, they will need to fill out the season 26-6 figuring they have 74 wins right now. Sounds impossible, but it can be done.

They play Baltimore, Chicago, The Rays, As, Mariners, Blue Jays, Orioles again, Yankees and White Sox. I know bad teams have really been a pain in the Sox side however, they should be able to figure it out. The offense is what it is, but the three guys that can save the Sox are Lester, Clay and to much of the Captains dismay Dice K. Lackey and Beckett are pretty much wild card or losses everytime they start, so when they falter we need the top 3 pitchers on this team to go 26-0 or at least keep them in the game.

On a side note, Lackey has been a disaster, we all new we overpaid him in the offseason, but I expected him to at best be a 2 starter, him at the worst be a 3. Not to have a bottom 5 whip and the second most hits allowed in the AL. It's disgusting that he will remain on this team. That's a little off topic though.

Even without making the playoffs, I will be proud of this team and how Tito has kept them competitive (Even though he made 2 horrific managerial blunders this weekend). They have had a lot to endure this whole season with Beckett being injured then sucking, Lackey sucking, Jacoby hurt, Mike Cameron hurt, Dustin Pedroia hurt, and Youk hurt, but to only be six games out of the hunt is still impressive.

Either way, the grind should be fun to watch and hopefully they can pull through.

Rays 5, Red Sox 3

Don't bury the Red Sox quite yet, but you may want to keep your schedule clear for their funeral. A heartbreaking weekend in Florida has all but sealed their fate. The Sox are now 6.5 behind the Rays and Yankees, and 7 behind in the loss column. With only 31 games remaining, they'd have to pick up one game on either team, once every four games, or about 3 games every 2 weeks. Barring a stupendous run, coupled by a collapse from either Tampa Bay or New York, it's safe to say that the Sox will see their season finish at 162 games.

I'll blame the injuries a bit for this weekend's failures. Certainly Youkilis and Pedroia would have scored some runs. Both teams pitched well, as evidenced by the 17 total runs scored in the series. The Rays just got a few more hits.

But a 162 game season isn't lost in 3 days. The Sox are now 5-9 against the Rays, their direct competitor for a playoff spot. They're also 5-7 against the Yankees.

The Sox play the Rays 3 more times. They also play the Yanks 6 more times. So there's still a glimmer of hope. But the Sox have been 23-19 since the All-Star Break. Like I said, it's not just been one bad weekend, it's been an extended period of slightly above average play.

The Sox have a day off then travel to Baltimore. Beckett faces Brian Matusz. The Sox are 6-6 against the O's this season.

But look on the bright side. It seems as though Manny Ramirez will be returning to Fenway, as a member of the White Sox. That series begins September 3rd.

-The Commodore

Chick Of The Day

Today's chick is Kelly Brook, a long time overdue.

For more Click Here

Carmelo Anthony Wants Out Of Denver

Carmelo Anthony wants out of Denver. First he didn't take their extension and now it's not an if but when is Carmelo Anthony going to be traded.

ESPN Reports:
According to the executive, the Nuggets want young players and draft picks for Anthony. Two teams that could offer a package like that are the Los Angeles Clippers and New Jersey Nets.

Wojnarowski lists the Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets as teams who could be in the mix for Anthony and the Charlotte Bobcats as a sleeper team because they can give the Nuggets a lot of salary cap relief, due to Erick Dampier's $13 million non-guaranteed contract.

If he went to NJ this whole offseason bust would go away. Carmelo has a NY bias and if he goes to NJ or NYK he will get his way, but it seems as if the Nuggests don't care what Melo wants. I can't even throw some names out there because I don't know whats off limits or not with those listed teams, but I'm sure anyone would be available if there was a shot to get Melo.

I think he should just take a massive pay cut and come to Boston.

What I'll Be Eating This Weekend

Fried Skin Sandwich

Stephen Strasburg to get Tommy John

Stephen Strasburg is going to get Tommy John surgury and most likely miss next year in recovery.

This sucks for the rookie phenom. He made baseball somewhat interesting this year, and now he's not coming back for at least a year and a half. I think MLB teams should require their young pitchers to get Tommy John, because it seems like their better after that happens. This certainly sucks for the Nationals though. At least they got Bryce Harper.

Delonte In Town Celtics Looking To Make A Move

Delonte West has been spotted in town and the rumors are he will be back in green in no time.

Although, Delonte is a headcase and pretends he's desparado from time to time, I do like him. He would be a little undersized but he would also add depth for the 2/3 position. With the addition of Von Wafer, I'd rather see a Wilson Chandler type guy here but I'll be pumped if Delonte is in green.

Plus he fucked LeBron's mom.

NFL Breakdown: Minnesota Vikings

VETERAN PLAYER MOVEMENT
KEY ADDITIONS
Player, Pos., 2009 Team
Rhys Lloyd, K, Carolina
Ryan Moats, RB, Houston
Lito Sheppard, CB, N.Y. Jets
KEY LOSSES
Player, Pos., 2010 Team
Artis Hicks, OL, Washington
Chester Taylor, RB, Chicago

MINNESOTA IN THE DRAFT
Rd., Player, Pos., Ht., Wt., College
2. Chris Cook, CB, 6-2, 212, Virginia
2. Toby Gerhart, RB, 6-0, 231, Stanford
4. Everson Griffen, DE, 6-3, 273, USC
5. Chris DeGeare, OL, 6-4, 325, Wake Forest
5. Nate Triplett, LB, 6-3, 247, Minnesota
6. Joe Webb, WR, 6-4, 220, UAB
7. Mickey Shuler, TE, 6-4, 247, Penn State
7. Ryan D’Imperio, FB, 6-2, 241, Rutgers

Offense:
Obviously Brett Favre is back, so its a better option then Tavarus Jackson and Sage Rosenfeld. Their runningback is Adrian Peterson who is a top 3 RB, I'm not a giant fan, I think he will break down and he fumbles too much for me. They lost Chester Taylor which is significant, but drafted Hiesman Trophy runner up Toby Gearhart, who may be the only person I could root for. With Sidney Rice out for 6 months or more, so they traded for Greg Camirillo who's alright. They also have Benard Berrian and TE Visanthe Shiancoe. So they have weapons.

Defense;
This is their strongpoint, well at least their D Line is. It has Jared Allen, Kevin and Pat Williams and Ray Williams and all are amazing. No one else on the defense is that great. Both EJ Henderson and Cedric Griffin are coming back from terrible injuries should help out, but the defense goes as far as the D Line goes.

Overall:
It's been hard to write this post to be honest. I hate the Vikings and I hate Favre. My heart tells me 9-7 but my biased says 8-8 and I always go with that.

Pau Gasol Player Sport Basket Ball

Pau Gasol

Pau Gasol i Sáez (born July 6, 1980 in Barcelona, Spain) is a Spanish professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was born to Marisa Sáez and Agustí Gasol, and he spent his childhood in Spain. Gasol was drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in the 2001 NBA Draft, but his rights were traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, with whom he won the NBA Rookie of the Year Award. He currently holds the Memphis Grizzlies franchise records for career games played, minutes played, field goals made and attempted, free throws made and attempted, offensive, defensive, and total rebounds, blocked shots, turnovers, and points. After seven seasons with the team, Gasol was traded to the Lakers on February 1, 2008. His younger brother, Marc Gasol is also a professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies of the NBA.

Source :Wikipedia.com

Chick Of The Day

Today's chick is Elle Milano, shes hot and naked.

For more Elle Click Here

Kobe Bryant Sport Basket Ball

Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bean Bryant (born August 23, 1978(1978-08-23)) is an American professional basketball player who plays shooting guard in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for the Los Angeles Lakers. Bryant enjoyed a successful high school basketball career at Lower Merion High School, where he was recognized as the top high school basketball player in the country. He decided to declare his eligibility for the NBA Draft upon graduation, and was selected with the 13th overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets, then traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. As a rookie, Bryant earned himself a reputation as a high-flyer and a fan favorite by winning the 1997 Slam Dunk Contest.

Bryant and then-teammate Shaquille O'Neal led the Lakers to three consecutive NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. After O'Neal's departure following the 2003–04 season, Bryant became the cornerstone of the Lakers franchise. He led the NBA in scoring during the 2005–06 and 2006–07 seasons, setting numerous scoring records in the process. In 2006, Bryant scored a career high 81 points against the Toronto Raptors, the second most points scored in a single game in NBA history, second only to Wilt Chamberlain's 100 point performance. In the 2007–08 season, he was awarded the regular season's Most Valuable Player Award (MVP). After losing in the 2008 NBA Finals, Bryant led the Lakers to two consecutive championships in 2009 and 2010, and was named NBA Finals MVP on both occasions.

In 2010, Bryant became the all-time leading scorer in Lakers franchise history. Since his second year in the league, Bryant has started in every NBA All-Star Game that has been hosted, winning the All-Star MVP award in 2002, 2007, and 2009. He is a twelve-time member of the All-NBA team and ten-time All-Defensive team, and is the youngest player ever to receive defensive honors. In 2008, he won a gold medal at the 2008 Olympics as a member of the USA national team. Bryant was named NBA player of the decade by TNT and Sporting News.

In 2003, Bryant was accused of sexual assault at a hotel in Edwards, Colorado, by a hotel employee. Bryant admitted an adulterous sexual encounter with the accuser, but denied the sexual assault allegation. In September 2004, prosecutors dropped the case after his accuser informed them that she was unwilling to testify.

Source : WIkipedia.com

Paul Pierce Sport Basket Ball

Paul Pierce

Paul Anthony Pierce (born October 13, 1977 in Oakland, California), also known as The Truth, is an American professional basketball player for the Boston Celtics of the NBA. He earned First Team All-America honors in his junior year at Kansas, and has been a starter every season since being selected by the Celtics with the 10th overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft. He is an eight-time All-Star, four-time All-NBA team selection and also led Boston to the NBA Finals in 2008, and 2010, winning the 2008 NBA Finals. He was named the 2008 NBA Finals MVP in his first trip to the NBA Finals.

Source : Wikipedia.com

Boston Celtics NBA Sport

Boston Celtics

The Boston Celtics are a professional basketball team based in Boston, Massachusetts. They play in the Atlantic Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Founded in 1946, the team is currently owned by Boston Basketball Partners L.L.C. and coached by Doc Rivers, with Danny Ainge as the President of Basketball Operations. The Celtics' 17 NBA Championships are the most for any NBA franchise. The Celtics' greatest domination came from 1957 to 1969, with 11 championships in 13 years, and eight in a row (1959–1966), the longest consecutive championship winning streak of any North American professional sports team. They currently play their home games at TD Garden.

The Celtics either dominated the league or played a large part in the playoffs in the late 1950s through the mid 1980s (winning 16 NBA Championships in 30 years between 1957 and 1986, and reaching at least the conference championship series in 29 of 35 seasons between 1953 and 1988). After the deaths of the second overall draft pick Len Bias in 1986 and all-star Reggie Lewis in 1993, the team fell into a steady decline, only making the playoffs four times from 1996 to 2007. The franchise has recently returned to prominence when Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen joined Paul Pierce during the 2007 off-season. Four Celtics (Bob Cousy, Bill Russell, Dave Cowens, and Larry Bird) have won the NBA Most Valuable Player Award for an NBA record total of 10 MVP awards.

Source : Wikipedia.com

Things To Watch For During Tonight's Patriots Game

Finally a preseason game that is somewhat interesting. Why is it interesting? Well if you know anything about the NFL then you'd know the 3rd preseason is basically a dress rehearsal for the regular season (the first half at least). So, here is what I'll be watching for...

- Gary Guyton vs. Brandon Spikes - Guyton was supposed to be the starter, but he has been out with a hamstring pull and most scouts have fallen in love with Spikes. I think Spikes is the obvious choice, but Belichick a lot of times doesn't trust rookies. I think Spikes will be an exception (much like Mayo), and he will eventually get the job, but look for Guyton to try to make a name for himself tonight. It is interesting to see the remodeling of the LB core anyways.

- Pass Rush - Over the past couple of seasons the Patriots have really lacked the ability to get to the QB. Shit, I mean when Tully Banta-Cain is your top sack guy you know you're in trouble. I will be watching guys like Derrick Burgess, who is going to need to step up big time with Warren out for the year. It won't matter how much the defensive backfield has improved if they don't get pressure on the QB.

- WRs - Other then Moss and Welker I am really interested to see how the rest play out. Is Tate going to be anything more then a special teams player. Can Taylor Price spread the field against starting CBs. These are questions that really interest me, because if someone like Tate steps up this offense could be unstoppable (well passing anyways).

- OL - Patriots have a lot of changes on the offensive line. They also should be running the ball a lot more this year, so it'll be interesting to see how they adjust. The big thing is protecting Brady who has had a lot of injuries over the past 2 years (knee, finger, ribs), so I'm interested to see how settled he is in the pocket and how much of a push the line is getting up front.

- CBs - Leigh Bodden returns tonight, and that means someone is losing a starting job. Right now it's between rookie Devin McCourty or second-year cornerback Darius Butler. They have both been very impressive, so it'll be interesting to see who heads to the bench.

Game vs the Rams starts at 7:30pm

Roger Clemens To Be Arraigned Monday

"Former Red Sox pitcher Roger Clemens, who has been indicted on six charges that he lied to Congress regarding his use of performance-enhancing drugs, is scheduled to be arraigned Monday afternoon on criminal charges in Washington D.C. Clemens will appear before U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton, facing charges that he obstructed a congressional inquiry with 15 separate statements made under oath, including the statement that he never used steroids or human growth hormone.

Clemens' attorney, Rusty Hardin, has stated that federal prosecutors offered a plea but the pitcher rejected. The former pitcher faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1.5 million fine (WEEI)."

This is getting really serious for Clemens. I am not sure about all the proof they have on him, but from what I have read the government doesn't usually pursue these types of charges unless they really feel like they have you. I am against that Congress wasted it's time on sports, but I am fir pressing charges in this case. You can't lie when under oath, and if you do you have to pay the price, otherwise what's the point of being under oath?

Either way someone is going to look really bad. If Clemens if convicted then his entire career is going to go down the shitter, plus he could be doing some serious jail time. If he gets off it's more tax money spent on reckless shit that doesn't matter, and Congress would look like a bunch of idiot (and they don't need any help in that department).

Artest Blasts Doc Rivers

As if the Celtics/Lakers rivalry needed anymore gasoline in the fire...

"At the time Ron Artest obviously in another world, so he probably didn't hear Doc Rivers immediately following the Lakers' Game 7 Finals win over the Celtics, when Rivers made special effort to point out that the Lakers still hadn't beaten the Celtics' starting five (Kendrick Perkins was sidelined with an ACL injury) .

In recent days, Rivers made the rounds and in an interview with John Thompson on ESPN 980 he said it again. Word apparently worked its way to Artest, who two months after the Finals appears to have come down enough to take Rivers' comments as fighting words (Boston.com)."

Here are Artest's tweets

- "Doc got one million excuses..
Just come back this season a take what you want..."

- "Boston lost to lakers because of Kendrick Perkins injury. What about in 08 when Bynum was injured. What about this year Bynum was injured .."

- "What about Kobe played with a broke finger .... What about Ron artest defense When the Boston staff said Ron artest was too slow" (of course this ass-clown speaks in the 3rd person)

As much as I hate to admit Artest is kind of right. Bottom line is that you either win or lose, you can't sit back and just make excuses, but I also see what Rivers is doing. I think one of the biggest things for the Celtics is to have all these old guys keep believing they can still do it. Sounds simple, but I believe comments like that make them believers.

I really just love all of this. The Yankees vs. Sox has lost some of it's nastiness, but Celtics/Lakers is more then picking up the slack. The addition of Shaq, history, and these comments have done enough to get the most lethargic NBA fan interested.

Why Not?

Why not watch this hot chick hurt herself?

Nick Johnson Not Coming Back

Manager Joe Girardi said Wednesday that Johnson will undergo another wrist injury, which will sideline him for the season. Johnson was signed over the winter to replace Johnny Damon at designated hitter, but has been a big bust, hitting .167 in 24 games. I was actually sold that he would be pretty decent for the Yankees, but he has been a complete bust. His failure made the Yankees go out and get Berkman, and he has also been a bust.

The Yankees could be in a bit of trouble. They are dealing with a lot of injuries, and they seem to be showing their age. I think the Rays are a better all around team, and if they are able to land Manny they have to be the favorites to win the division.

But this is what you get when you trust someone who looks like the crazy guy from Full Metal Jacket.

Big Ten 2010 Preview

1. Ohio State

I hate Ohio State, but they have been the class of the Big 10 for a long time now. Ohio State has won or shared the conference title for five consecutive seasons, including last year. They are getting all their top offensive players, and Terrelle Pryor will be in the discussion for the Heisman. What will also help them is a really soft nonconference schedule that includes teams like Marshall, Ohio and Eastern Michigan. Ohio State's toughest games appear to be conference trips to Wisconsin and Iowa. Out of the two Wisconsin poses the big threat with their extremely tough running game.

The key for this team is the continued development of Pryor. He has shown the ability to run, but they only ranked 106th in the country in passing. He has to be better then that, because there are teams in the Big 10 that can stop the run. Ohio State will once again have one of the best defenses in the country, so even if the offense and Pryor struggle they will be in every game. I almost picked Wisconsin to win the Big Ten, but I have to put my bias aside for a moment.

2. Wisconsin

With ten starters back on offense, a good-looking defense, a tremendous kicking game, and a favorable schedule, it's all in place to get over the hump. I really think they can challenge Ohio State this year. The big thing for Wisconsin is focus, they outscored their opponents 314 to 180 in the first 3 quarters and were outscored 96 to 89 in the 4 with. That is just unacceptable, and if they want to beat teams like Iowa and Ohio State they are going to need the same effort they put in the first 3 quarter, and follow through in the 4th.

Wisconsin has all 5 starters returning to the offensive line, and 3 running backs that are good enough to start for almost all the teams in the Big Ten. They can control the clock and as long as they aren't turning the ball over with their passing game they should be a tough physical team all year. Their defense is great at stopping the run. I have questions about their secondary, but when you outscore teams 33-8 in rushing TDs like they did last year you know you have a strong defense.

3. Iowa

I am so sick of this team. They are always so close to doing great thing, but also seem to flirt with disaster everytime they hit the field. Most people have them as the 2nd best team, but I really question their offensive line, and that could become very important with teams like Wisconsin and Ohio State, as they both have good defensive lines and LBs. Their defense should once again he outstanding, and their offense should be entertaining. Stanzi is a good QB, and he is a senior this year. Senior WR Derrell Johnson-Koulianos is fast as hell, and should be able to stretch the field for him. I just question if he is going to have enough time to get the ball off, and Stanzi could be an injury concern all season if this offensive line is as soft as I think it will be.

4. Michigan State

State doesn't have to play Ohio State this year, which should help their cause after a disappointing 2009 season. This is a young team, but they have a great passing game with Kirk Cousins at QB. He is quickly turning into the best QB in the Big Ten. On top of that they have a solid defense led by maybe the best defensive player in all of college football (Greg Jones). I know a lot of people will be pissed that I have Penn State below them, but this team could be for real, and I like the way their schedule plays out. Notre Dame sucks, they get Wisconsin at home, and with Michigan still terrible they have room to go on a little bit of a run. Their big question is their offensive line that needs to replace 3 starters. They might not have a star running back, but the rotation of Larry Caper, Edwin Baker, Le’Veon Bell and Nick Hill should keep them fresh and defenses off balance. Maybe it is just my bias, but I see Michigan State winning 9 games this year.

5. Penn State

Is Joe Paterno dead yet? Oh well he probably should be. Anyways, Evan Royster is a beast, but I really question if they have the QB (Kevin Newsome) to really do any damage in this conference. Penn State is always able to pump out LBs, but this year it is going to be tough to replace Navarro Bowman, Sean Lee, and Josh Hull. Still, they have the running game to play the ball control game, so I can see them winning 8 games this year.

6. Northwestern

They have been looking to breakout for a couple years now, but they always seem to find a way to lose easy game. Last year they lost to Syracuse and Minnesota, but they have only one losing season since 2003. Their defense should be really strong, but their offense is going to have to completely reload after QB Mike Kafka left for the NFL, and their two top WRs are also gone. Dan Persa takes the reigns, and I think he is going to have a good season. They have most of their offense line back, and with Persa being a duel threat QB they should have a strong running game (like everyone in the Big Ten). Northwestern will once again have a winning season, but Persa and this offense if not ready to make the next step.

7. Michigan

RichRod is going to get fired after this season, which is actually too bad, because I think he is a good coach. Still, I hate Michigan, and this is just too much fun for me.

I think their offense will be improved, but I really question the move to go to a 3-3-5. For their personnel it fits better, but this is a running conference, and I think a lot of teams are just going to be able to run all over them. Plus they have to go to Ohio St, and Penn St. Michigan will challenge for 7 wins, but will that be enough to save RichRod's job? What if they win a bowl game too? Well, I don't see that happening, so it's going to be a long year for Wolverine fans, and RichRod will be looking for a new job.

The rest:

8. Minnesota - 4 wins
9. Illinois - 4 wins
10. Purdue - 3 wins
11. Indiana - 3 wins