Let the Free Agency Chaos Begin

The time is now for the most exciting Free Agency period in NBA history. July 1 has come and the free agency begins with many high profile players being up for grabs: Dirk Nowitzki, Amare Staudmire, Joe Johnson, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, and the King himself, Lebron James. Others include Carlos Boozer, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce. With so much on the line, whole teams could go from zeros to heroes with all the talent out there. This free agent grab will have the Mad Hatter continuously yelling "Change Places!"

Of course the main story is on 3 players: Wade, Bosh, and King James. Many people in Cleveland and throughout the state of Ohio have been holding special events or promotions to try and keep the Monarchy. From "Lebron Day" to singing a parody of "We Are the World," they are kissing his highness' rear. However, it becomes more apparent that James will leave his kingdom and find a new land to dominate.

This is where Bosh and Wade come in as potential Knights for James to ride with to a title. There has much speculation of Lebron joining Wade, who has already won a title, in Miami with Pat Riley. The Great City of Chicago has been a buzz for a while wanting Lebron to join them and Derrick Rose. Chris Bosh comes in to play as he could join Wade and/or Lebron in either city. Other teams are also pitching their fiefdoms to the King. New Jersey is a possibility with Mikhail Prokhorov wanting to create a dynasty there and/or in Brooklyn. Dallas becomes a potential spot with Mark Cuban always being aggressive and the resigning of Dirk Nowitzki. The New York Knicks are trying to attract James with the city itself. And also I'm told that there is a second team in Los Angeles and they might be a possible destination. Who are they again?

Anyway the big shake up is underway and who knows which team will be the NBA favorites in the end. Still betting on the Lakers in most cases.

P.S. My Bold Prediction: Lebron goes to Chicago. Cleveland has no future for Lebron and I don't see him playing with D-Wade in Miami. Rose and Lebron seems like a favorable pair while Wade will get Bosh to come to Miami.

The End of Federer?

Roger Federer has dominated the Grand Slam scene in tennis for most of the last decade. He has won 16 Grand Slam titles which is the most by any man in history. However the pure dominance of Roger Federer may be over as he has been eliminated in the Quarter Finals of Wimbledon by Tomas Berdych with a score of 6-4, 3-6, 6-1, 6-4. This is the second Grand Slam event in a row in which he hasn't reached the Semi Finals. Not to mention this is the first Wimbledon Final Federer won't be in since 2002. Federer's Dominance at Wimbledon may be over for good as this may be a sign that his career is coming to an end. He could still play for a few more years and he could pull out a couple more Grand Slams but his days as Number 1 in the World seem to be at an end.

P.S. Tomas Berdych will face Novak Djokovic in the Semi Finals. Good Luck to Berdych.

Paraguay Over Japan, Spain Wins the Iberian Rivalry, and FIFA Finally Does Something Right

The Round of 16 concluded today with two games, the first being Paraguay vs. Japan. This game was scoreless throughout regulation and even in added time. The only real highlights were Eiji Kawashima's Goalkeeping for Japan. Paraguay, however, would make the sun set for Japan at this World Cup in penalties, 5-3. The key miss that put Japan behind was Yuichi Komano's shot off the top bar. Japan goes home after an impressive group stage while Paraguay goes to their first quarter finals ever in the World Cup.

The second was a great match up between Spain and Portugal. The Rivalry of the Iberian Peninsula went into South Africa with each side looking to score with their top strikers which featured Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Fernando Torres of Spain. Neither would do anything in this match, however, as each player continued their international slumps. It would be Spanish footballer, David Villa, scoring after getting a great pass from Xavi Hernandez and getting his own rebound that he shot a second before the goal. Spain won, 1-0, with that goal and now goes on to face Paraguay in the quarter finals.

While these match ups were the highlights today, FIFA finally showed remorse to all the bad calls. FIFA President, Sepp Blatter, said that he has apologized to Mexico and England about the bad calls against them in their respected games and situations. He also said the matter of Goal Line Tech will be revisited at a business meeting of the International FA Board in July. However, they will only discuss Goal Line Tech and not Instant Replay. There was also news that the refs who made the bad calls against Mexico and England have been removed from the World Cup List. Finally a show of emotions from FIFA. This is a step in the right direction and I hope Goal Line Tech will be installed at all major levels of the game. Whether or not Instant Replay will be in Football is still uncertain but FIFA is at least addressing the referee mistakes.

P.S. Seriously, still some sort of Asian Characters in my comments. If you can read my blog, why do you post with these Asian Characters? Unless it's a random jerk from somewhere throwing some sort of pop up adds on every blog he can find. DAMN IT!!!

P.P.S. Then again, Blogger.com may have the ability to translate the blogs. WHO IS WATCHING ME?!?!

FIFA: FOOLS IN THE F**KING ALPS!!!

No, this is a time to be angry like Ozzie Guillen is on a daily basis. FIFA finally replies to a some of the replay controversy. They admit to a mistake and that they will try and conceal replays from the stadium crowds to hide the referee's mistakes. This is their reply? To all the controversy surrounding the bad calls, all the evidence mounting against them, and the technology to change things is at their fingertips and their response is to bury their heads in the dirt? THESE ARE THE STUPIDEST AND MOST IGNORANT PEOPLE IN THE WORLD!!!

Instead of maybe embracing the future of sports or even just admitting their faults to the game, their response is to cover it up. This is unacceptable. FIFA is putting themselves in the same band wagon as President Richard Nixon. THOSE DICKS!!! Someone please explain how this is a good move for the sport? I would like to hear the argument. I really would. Otherwise, it is unacceptable. This organization would rather stay in the Dark Ages than embrace 21st century technology.

P.S. There will be no coverage of World Cup Games here today. I'M BURYING MY HEAD IN THE DIRT TO JUST SEE WHAT IT FEELS LIKE!!!!

Germany and Argentina Advance Thanks to Some Help

Germany and England played their Round of 16 game today with some more controversy. After a couple of legitimate German goals and a goal by the English to make it 2-1, Frank Lampard of England shoots the ball going off the top cross bar and then landing on the ground behind the goal line. The ball would then bounce out the goal area which led to the refs not calling it a goal even though it clearly was. This bad call would've tied the game and may have changed the momentum of it. Instead it doesn't count and Thomas Muller scores two more goals for Germany to get the victory, 4-1.

More officiating controversy would haunt the second game as well. The first goal scored by Argentina was scored by Carlos Tevez who made the shot thanks to a feed by Lionel Messi. However, reply shows that when Tevez was passed the ball for the goal, he was clearly offsides. The officials, however, did not make the call. Argentina would go on to win, 3-1, thanks to Tevez's two goals and one by Gonzalo Higuan. Argentina will go on to face Germany in the Quarter Finals.

Another day of bad officiating adds more evidence to further the case of allowing Instant Replay in Football. It is with these mistakes where teams starts to lose confidence and the whole game can be turned. Would Argentina still have won if Tevez didn't score the first goal? Could Germany still win if England had tied the game? We will never know. Momentum is everything in sports and one bad call can influence the entire match. England and Mexico now feel Ireland's pains and might change their attitude about Instant Replay in the near future (not that either country has been for or against it, that I know of).

P.S. Germany and Argentina still looked like the favorites and the better teams but they still have to earn the win. We can't assume anything in sports. That's why the games are played. But the players should make the mistakes, not the officials.

Suarez Boosts Uruguay and Why the US Needed a Win

The Round of 16 began with Uruguay going up against South Korea. Luis Suarez would be the story in this one as he scored a goal off a long pass or shot from Diego Forlan early in the game. South Korea though would strike back when Lee Chung-Yong scored in the 68' to tie the game with a header in the box. Luis Suarez would save his team one more time, however, thanks to some fancy footwork and a great curved shot into the back of the net. Uruguay beats South Korea, 2-1, and advances to the Quarter Finals.

The US played their Round of 16 game against Ghana today in what may be a heart breaker after that miracle finish against Algeria. The US were once again weak in the first 10 minutes or so and it cost them dearly as Ghana's Kevin-Prince Boateng scored a great goal off a turnover. The US would push hard in the 2nd half, though, and managed to score off a penalty kick by Landon Donovan. The game would go into overtime and, just like regulation, the US conceded a goal early on as Asamoah Gyan scored for Ghana off a long pass and brilliant goal over Tim Howard. The US couldn't mount a 2nd comeback as Ghana won, 2-1, and will face Uruguay in the Quarter Finals.

The US go home in the Round of 16 having played an eventful tournament. However, it seems like the US team fell short. Don't get me wrong. Ghana was the better team and the US was never a World Cup favorite. But US Soccer... I mean US FOOTBALL!!! needed their team to go further in this World Cup for their own benefit. Football is not as big in the US like the rest of the World. A great World Cup performance would've helped further interest in the game on all levels. The Landon Donovan Goal did help the cause but the team failed to follow it up with a win and because of that failure we may have undone the progress it would've brought.

P.S. I hope the effort by the US team does help further interest in MLS. I encourage everyone to watch the games or at least the MLS Cup in November. The more we support, the stronger we (US Football team) will get over time. GO NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION!!!

Another No Hitter? Big Whoop!!!

Edwin Jackson of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitched today against the Tampa Bay Rays. Despite his accuracy being off enough to allow 8 walks and throw 149 pitches, he pitched a no hitter. Jackson becomes the 4th pitcher this year to throw a no hitter, 5th if you count the Imperfect Game. I'm starting to think a no hitter is not special anymore. Baseball has practically seen 5 of them this year and we are not yet halfway through the season. What has happened to the hitters? Did you guys rely on steroids that much? And what gives Tampa? This is the second no hitter you've given up this year and third since last July. I'm sure Tampa Bay is happy enough that this one wasn't a Perfect Game. Still the no hitters are becoming less impressive as we go on in the season. As for the hitters themselves, keep your eye on the ball for heaven sakes.

Group H: Chile and Spain Advance

Spain came into their game against Chile needing a win fearing that Switzerland would get a win over Honduras at the same time. Chile, meanwhile, feared that if Spain won and Switzerland won by a few goals then they would eliminated. The Games were played and Spain managed to win. Their first goal came in a crazy way when Claudio Bravo, goalie for Chile, tried to clear the ball away from Spanish striker, Fernando Torres. Bravo was well outside the box and made a bad clearance, however, and David Villa (Spanish Striker) managed to kick it into the back of the net from a far distance away to put Spain up 1-0. Andres Iniesta would score the 2nd goal later on thanks to a good pass from David Villa. But, despite being down a man with a red card to Marco Estrada, Rodrigo Miller of Chile would score a goal making it 2-1. It would remain that way for the rest of the game.

Meanwhile, Switzerland provided no threat to Chile's spot as they played a scoreless game against Honduras. The Swiss go home while Chile breaths a sigh of relief. The Group Stage is officially over as Spain and Chile are the last teams to get into the Round of 16. They will have very hard opponents, however, as Chile gets the always dangerous, Brazil, and Spain gets to face their Iberian Peninsula neighbors, Portugal. Do I smell tension along the border?

Group G: Why Did You Play?

Group G finished their games today with Brazil vs. Portugal and the Ivory Coast vs. North Korea. Now the standings had Brazil leading with 6 points, Portugal with 4 points, the Ivory Coast with 1 point, and North Korea with a death sentence. Brazil and Portugal were already shoe-ins for the next round as Brazil already had a spot and the Ivory coast had to hope that Brazil beat Portugal by a lot and they had to win by a lot. The Ivory coast did beat North Korea pretty handily with a 3-0 win. Brazil and Portugal, meanwhile, fought to a draw. This might as well been practice for both sides though Portugal would've gotten the top spot with a win. They were happy enough with a draw, however, as both Brazil and Portugal advance to the Round of 16.

Wizards Take John Wall at #1 and What To Do with Agent 0

Perhaps the second most hyped draft in the USA came about yesterday with the NBA Draft. For the NFL Draft, I can barely make it through Round 1. This draft, we're mainly talking about John Wall and that's enough. Sure there are other good players like Evan Turner and DeMarcus Cousins but I barely have enough attentiveness to write about Wall. This isn't much of a story, though, as Washington took him as the Number One Pick, something everyone predicted as soon as Washington got the Number One Pick.

What may be more interesting is the question that comes along with this pick: What are the Wizards going to do with Gilbert Arenas? He's a got a huge contract attached to him, he's been injury prone the last couple of years, and the worst part is that he had the Gun episode in a locker room. Now Arenas may change his habits going into next year in order to not be more controversial but that may not be enough for him and the Wizards. Arenas is likely to end up somewhere else by the beginning of the 2010-11 season but it will likely come through a trade in which the Wizards get very little.

P.S. Evan Turner would picked after Wall at #2 overall by the 76ers. Cousins would be picked 5th overall by the Kings. Interestingly enough, Gordon Hayward of Butler gets picked 9th overall by the Jazz. Nice move to enter the draft after all.

John Isner Wins the Never Ending Match

In the midst of the World Cup, Wimbledon has begun. Every year seems to be historic at Wimbledon lately and it seems like the historic thing has already happened in a first round match. John Isner played against Nicolas Mahut for three days as these two took it deep into the fifth set. They played all day yesterday finishing 59-59 in the fifth set having to stop because of darkness. They continued today and John Isner managed to come out on top finally winning it at 70-68. Isner fell down when he won like he had won the tournament itself. It was the longest Tennis match ever at 11 hours and 5 minutes and 183 games in which 138 of them was in the fifth set.

John Isner and Nicolas Mahut will be remembered for this feat and it might go down as one of the most exciting matches ever at the tournament. It was actually surprising to hear about the longest match ever and not see Novak Djokovic as one the players (he takes FOREVER to serve). It's regrettable that something like this, though, was done in the first round and not at the semis or the final. Still it was a great story and definitely one for the ages. Congrats to the New Iron Man, John Isner.

P.S. Okay, John, pick up the pace. Your holding the tournament back. Also, Wimbledon needs to install some lights for the other courts to make sure these games finish quicker (on the same day). Either that or move the match to a court that does.

Group E: Netherlands and Japan Advance

The Netherlands came into Thursday already having a spot in the next round. They just needed not to lose against Cameroon in order to get the top spot in Group E and get to face the runner up in Group F (Slovakia). They would get a win over Cameroon, 2-1, with Robin Van Persie and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar getting goals for them. They finish with 9 points and the top spot.

The real game in this group was Japan vs. Denmark were the winner would advance to the next round. Japan owned this match with a couple of great first half, free kick goals from Keisuke Honda and Yasuhito Endo. Denmark would get a goal in the 81' where Jon Dahl Tomasson took a penalty kick that hit off the keeper that would result into a goal anyway thanks a rebound effort from Tomasson. Japan would hold on and actually score another goal with Shinji Okazaki scoring thanks to some help by Keisuke Honda. Japan wins, 3-1, and goes on to the Round of 16.

Group E is over and some more Round of 16 match ups are made with the Netherlands going against the Slovakia and Japan to face Paraguay. I like Japan and would like to see them go further but Paraguay seems likely to be their last stop at this tournament. The Dutch look good but better be aware of Slovakia's abilities lest they get taken down a peg like Italy.

Group F: Paraguay Atop the Group and Italy Out?

Group F played their last games today with Italy and Paraguay looking to be the favorites to advance. Paraguay would face New Zealand and would draw in a scoreless game. In the end, Paraguay didn't need a goal as they clinched a spot and ended up as the top seed in the group. Italy, meanwhile, faced Slovakia who had upset on their minds. Slovakia's Robert Vittek would score off a bad pass from Italy and later score a 2nd goal in the 2nd half. Italy would try to mount a comeback with a goal in the 81' but Slovakia would score again with Kamil Kopunek breaking through and then making an amazing shot over the goalie. Slovakia would win 3-2.

The Defending World Cup Champs have been eliminated as Slovakia has stolen their spot in the next round. Good for Slovakia. The final two teams of the 2006 World Cup are going home after just the group stage. Somebody get the Heimlich maneuver over to France and Italy because they've choked. OH!!! Paraguay and Slovakia move on from the Group Stage.

Group D: Germany and Ghana Advance

Group D's final games were yesterday featuring Germany vs. Ghana and Australia vs. Serbia. Germany needed a win to get the Group lead and managed to do so thanks to a great outside shot by Mesut Oezil in the 60' to give them a 1-0 victory. Serbia, meanwhile, needed a win to advance to the next round but Australia spoiled their party. Tim Cahill and Brett Holman scored two goals for Australia to get them a 2-1 win. Neither of these would qualify for the Round of 16, however, as Serbia didn't have enough points and Australia was behind Ghana in the goal differential department.

The next round is set for the Group C and D winners. The USA will face Ghana and England will play against Germany. The US will be looking for some revenge as it was Ghana that eliminated them from the 2006 World Cup. Germany looks to be the favorite over England considering England's only win came against Slovenia. Which European Powerhouse will choke? And can the US make it to the Quarter Finals?

P.S. Then again, Germany did lose to Serbia. Ah, who sucks the most?

Group C: The Miracle on Turf

The moment of truth came for the US as they had to get a win to move on in the tournament for sure. England, meanwhile, needed a win to move on as well. In England's game vs Slovenia, Jermain Defoe scored a goal off a cross in the 23' to give the English the lead. England would managed to hold on for the win 1-0 and move on to the Round of 16. It would've been a huge disappointment if they didn't advance, but England barely gets through the group stage with their only win.

Meanwhile, the US played against Algeria in what must be truly called the biggest game in US Football history. The US survived the early pressure from Algeria and managed to make some good chances on goal. The supposed first goal for the US was called offsides in what can only be described as a second bad call against the US in this tournament. The US kept their heads up, though, and keep pressing the attack waiting for their chance. They had several other opportunities to go ahead: headers, bad kicks up close, and even tricks with the free kicks.

Then, when all hope seemed lost, Algeria shoots one against Howard in the 91'. Howard stops it, grabs it, and throws it out for a quick run. The US runs it up with Jozy Altidore shooting it into the middle with some help from Dempsey to have it go off the keeper. Donovan gets the rebound and chips it into the net. GOAL!!! A miracle moment for US Soccer on the breakaway being capped off from Landon Donovan. The US win, 1-0, and advance to the Round of 16 as Group C Winners.

After everything that the US had gone through what with England, the comeback with Slovenia, and the bad officiating, they advance as the group leaders. The US live up to their expectations in this World Cup as they will face Group D's runner up in the Round of 16 while England will face Group D's Winner.

P.S. HAPPY 300TH POSTING!!!

Group B: Argentina Sweeps the Group and South Korea Edges Out Greece

Group B played their last games today at the same time with Argentina vs. Greece and South Korea vs. Nigeria. Apparently there's a rule saying the last games of the group stage have to be played at the same time for fairness. South Korea and Greece were, however, competing with each other throughout their games with the thought was it would come down to whoever scored more goals overall. It would not come to that, however, as Argentina defeated Greece 2-0 while South Korea fought Nigeria to a draw of 2-2 to take a point and break the points tie with Greece. Argentina takes the top spot in the group with 9 points having won all their games. South Korea takes number 2 and advances to the next round. The Round of 16 will feature Argentina vs. Mexico and South Korea vs. Uruguay.

It is at this time we must say goodbye to Nigeria and Greece. Another African team is eliminated from the World Cup while the Greeks will find no comfort from their economic crises at this tournament. Thanks for playing and don't forget your parting gifts: Humility, Shame, and a loss of hearing (Vuvazelas).

Group A: Uruguay and Mexico Advance

The last games of the group stage have begun and who will get a red rose? Okay, it's not the Bachelor. This is actually exciting. Group A finished their games today with two games happening at the same time with South Africa vs. France and Uruguay vs. Mexico. South Africa needed to score some major goals to catch up to Mexico and was on the way to doing that leading 2-0. But, despite being down a man due to a red card, France would score a goal to make it 2-1 and dash South Africa's hopes in this game. Uruguay, meanwhile, would beat Mexico and take the top spot in the group with 7 points. Mexico would advance to the next round as well despite losing this game.

South Africa and France have the displeasure of going home which is only a few blocks away for South Africa. It is sad to see both of these team already out of the World Cup. South Africa becomes the first host nation in World Cup history to be eliminated from it in the Group Stage. Not exactly the goal of Bafana Bafana. The laughable French, meanwhile, go home after so much controversy with their team: the team hating their coach, rumors of players quitting, qualifying for the World Cup because of hand ball. They actually finished last in the group. It might as well been the Irish. Truly a moment of pure shame for France.

A Portugal Scorefest, Chile on Top in Group H, and Some Redemption for Spain

Portugal Played North Korea today in a Group F game, if you can call it that. North Korea faired alright against Brazil earlier despite still losing to them. They were destroyed in this game. Portugal scored 7 goals in this one and 6 of them came in the 2nd half. It's definitely the most goals any team has scored in one game at this World Cup. Actually, Portugal has scored more goals than any team has so far at the World Cup, period. North Korea, meanwhile, will have the displeasure of going back to North Korea and Kim Jong-il without making it past the group stage. Do I hear beheadings? Final was 7-0.

Group H played their games today with the first being Chile vs. Switzerland. The Swiss couldn't follow that upset over Spain with another win as they lost to Chile 1-0. Valon Behrami of Switzerland got a Red Card in the 31' which didn't cost the Swiss imediately as they held back Chile until the 75' when Mark Gonzalez scored with a header off a great pass from Esteban Paredes. Meanwhile, Spain looked for some redemption after their 1-0 loss to Switzerland. They got that with a win over Honduras, 2-0. David Villa scored both of Spain's goals and almost got his trick on a penalty but missed it. Spain most likely needs another win in their next game against Chile, who leads the group with 6 points.

Paraguay Beats Slovakia, New Zealand Stuns Italy, and Brazil Slams the Ivory Coast

The World Cup games continued today with Group F. The first game featured Paraguay vs. Slovakia. Paraguay would get the win thanks to some early and late goals to give them a 2-0 win. They take 3 points and lead of the group thanks to the next game between Italy and New Zealand. This game would remarkably tie as the World Champs just couldn't get a 2nd goal against New Zealand. The final was 1-1. New Zealand gets a lot of momentum from this draw as they head into their next match with Paraguay. Paraguay just needs a draw to advance while New Zealand needs a win. Italy also needs a win to advance in their game with Slovakia. Slovakia, though, will need some help as they need win and at least a draw or a loss for New Zealand.

Meanwhile in Group G, Brazil had a field day with the Ivory Coast. The traditional powerhouse scored 3 goals with 2 of them coming from Luis Fabiano. They would win it 3-1. With this win, Brazil clinches a spot in the Round of 16. Portugal, meanwhile, will play their 2nd game tomorrow against North Korea. North Korea must play beyond their best because they will be eliminated from further competition if they lose.

Draw with Ghana and Australia, Netherlands Clinch, and Denmark Beats Cameroon

Another World Cup Day went by with Group D's 2nd games finishing up with Ghana vs. Australia. Ultimately these two would fight to a draw after some early scoring. Australia struck first with Bret Holman in the 11' and then Ghana scored on a penalty kick after a red card in the box by Australia's Harry Kewell. It ends 1-1 with Ghana still having a lead in Group D by one point.

Group E played Yesterday as well with the Netherlands going against Japan. I had hope Japan would get another lucky win after the first one over Cameroon but it was not meant to be. Wesley Sneijder of the Netherlands scored the only goal of the game in the 53'. Japan just didn't have possession as much as the Dutch to mount a comeback.

The other Group E game had Denmark vs. Cameroon. Both teams needed a win to keep up with the Netherlands and Japan. Denmark would get that win despite going down 1-0 early. Denmark's Nicklas Bendtner scored in the 33' to tie and Dennis Rommedahl scored in the 61' to give them the win. Final score: 2-1.

Currently, the Netherlands have a firm grip over Group E with 6 points and have actually clinched a top spot in the group considering Japan has to play Denmark. Both have 3 points and only one can get 3 more with a win while Cameroon have none and have no chance at a top spot.

Serbia Upsets Germany, US Makes a Comeback Yet Gets Robbed, and England Still Winless

With Germany beating Australia so impressively, you'd think this was a walk in the park for them playing against Serbia. Serbia didn't get the message at all. In fat, Serbia beat Germany today 1-0. Lukas Podolski had a chance to tie the game with a penalty kick but apparently missed. Germany is now tied with Serbia and Ghana in Group D.

Group C, meanwhile, played their games as well with the first being Slovenia vs. the US. Slovenia took a 2-0 lead going into half time which could've easily sealed the win for them considering how the World Cup Games were going. But the US fought back and struck early in the 2nd half with a great goal by Landon Donovan. Then off a great heading pass, Michael Bradley, son of coach Bob Bradley, scored the tying goal in the 82'. The US then had a great shot into the net by Maurice Edu but Koman Coulibaly, the ref, called a whistle for a supposed foul that looks like it never occurred. The refs calls were bad this entire game but this one was the worst. Each side takes a point with a 2-2 tie.

The other Group C game had England going against Algeria. England was the favorite yet again but, once again, they couldn't take the match. Algeria fought hard the entire way and didn't let the English score a goal. Regrettably, they couldn't score a goal either. It ended in a 0-0 draw with each side getting a point.

It's simple for the US now going into their last Group C match with Algeria: Win and you'll advance.

P.S. Okay, the Lakers have 16 titles. I'm sorry for the error in my blog. I will check my sources a little better from now on rather than just using Wikipedia.

Lakers Win The... Ah Oh Cares!!!

That's right, I said it. I never watched any of the NBA Finals just like the NBA Playoffs. It's too predictable and watching the sport bores the hell out of me. However it is still significant when a team wins a title... when you're name isn't the Celtics or the Lakers. Also the Lakers winning so much in this last decade was like a repeat movie. I've already seen a team win a bunch of titles within a decade with Michael Jordan and the Bulls. Now of course the Lakers and Celtics playing against each other does add to the drama, when we were in the 1980's with Bird and Magic. Now it's Kobe vs. some old guys waiting for their social security checks to start coming. The two teams have combined to win over half the titles with 34. They are also tied for most titles in the NBA with 17 each.

Okay, I will at least say that the most championships stat in this sport is highly contested unlike baseball, but the sport is still boring to watch.

P.S. Final score was 83-79, for those who do care. For more info about the game, why are reading my blog?

Argentina Takes Control of Group B and Trouble for France?

Group B played their second games today with the first featuring the leaders of the group: South Korea vs. Argentina. Argentina destroyed South Korea as they won it 4-1. After a own goal that helped Argentina, Gonzalo Higuain got a hat Trick for Argentina to help them get 3 more points. The other Group B game was Greece vs Nigeria. both of these teams needed a win to stay alive and Greece would be that team. Nigeria scored a goal first off a free kick by Karl Uche but luck would turn around for them as Sani Kaita would get a red card for losing his temper on the sideline. Greece would manage to score two goals in response and win 2-1. This was their first World Cup win. As it stands, Argentina has control of Group B with 6 points.

There was also a Group A match up featuring France vs. Mexico. Both sides were looking for a win to help keep pace with Uruguay in Group A. The first goal wouldn't come until the the 64' when Javier Hernandez scored a goal off a breakaway pass up the middle. Later, Eric Abidal of France fouled Pablo Barrera in the penalty box giving a penalty kick for Mexico. Cuauhtémoc Blanco would score on that kick. Mexico would win 2-0. It looks like 2006 World Cup runner up France is going to be eliminated in the group stage as they are behind both Uruguay and Mexico who have 4 points. Mexico and Uruguay still have to face each other and both sides just need one point to advance.

P.S. I like that people are actually commenting on my page but what the hell is up with the Japanese characters? OK, it could be Chinese, Korean, or some other Asian language. Either way, I can't read it all. Please criticize me in English so I can understand it when you're insulting me, OKAY!!!

Chile Beats Honduras, The Swiss Upset Spain, and South Africa in Trouble

Group H would be the last group to play their first games today with the first featuring Chile vs. Honduras. Chile would win the game, 1-0, and break a streak of 48 years without a win at the World Cup. Jean Beausejour scored the goal in the 34' to give Chile the win. Meanwhile, the World Cup favored, Spain, faced Switzerland. They didn't looked like the favorite today as the Swiss managed to pull out an upset and beat mighty Spain, 1-0. Gelson Fernandes was the one who scored the goal to help shock the world. Now Spain can still make it past the group stage but they will most likely have to win both their remaining games.

While Spain still has a good chance, South Africa, the host nation, does not. Uruguay may have destroyed South Africa's hope of moving on as they beat them, 3-0. Diego Forlan scored a great first goal and then a second on a penalty kick after Itumeleng Khune, South Africa's Goalie, was called for a red card in the penalty area. Uruguay has a loose grip on Group A as they watch France and Mexico of the same group tomorrow.

P.S. Does this mean Spain is still cursed or jinxed or whatever?

All of Group F at a Draw and Brazil Takes Control of Group G

New Zealand played against Slovakia yesterday with both teams trying to take advantage of the draw between Paraguay and Italy. Neither would gain the edge in the group, however, as they fought to a 1-1 tie. Slovakia almost took the 3 points but New Zealand's Winston Reid scored the game tying goal in the 3rd minute of stoppage time of the 2nd half. The whole group ends up tied with 1 point for all.

All of Group G would play yesterday with the first being Portugal vs. the Ivory Coast. Despite the two great strikers of Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal and Didier Drogba of the Ivory Coast, there were no goals in this game and would end in a draw. Both teams would take a point waiting to see if mighty Brazil could be beat. Brazil would have none of that in their Group G game with North Korea. They managed to score two goals against North Korea and held on to win it 2-1. They take control of the group with a 2 point lead.

Poor Denmark, Historic Win for Japan, and The Defending Champs Avoid an Upset

The World Cup continued with Group E playing today. The first game in this group was the Netherlands vs. Denmark. Denmark must be hanging their heads after this one as they lost 2-0. The first goal they gave up was an own goal when Simon Poulsen accidentally hit a cross from the Netherlands off his teammate, Daniel Agger, for a goal. Dirk Kuyt would later score a 2nd goal for the Netherlands sealing the win. The other Group E game featured Japan vs. Cameroon. Japan was the underdog in this game but Keisuke Honda scored a goal for Japan off a cross. They would hold the 1-0 nothing lead and beat Cameroon. This was their first World Cup win outside of Japan.

Group F would start as well with the defending World Champs, Italy, going against Paraguay. There were some concerns for Italy's team being too old and it showed a little. Paraguay would score first near the end of the 1st half with Antolin Alcaraz scoring with a header off a cross. Italy would regain their composure scoring off a cross of their own with Daniele De Rossi getting the goal in the 2nd half. The score would stay at 1-1 and end in a draw. Each side would get a point but Italy looked exposed and weak. Group F will conclude tomorrow with New Zealand vs. Slovakia.

P.S. Okay, what is worse? The own goal from Denmark or the goal scored on Robert Green by the US?

Slovenia Over Algeria, Ghana Gets Lucky with a Penalty Kick, and Germany Crushes Australia

With England and the US fighting to a draw, Algeria and Slovenia had a chance to take control of Group C for themselves. Unfortunately, only one of them could do it as they played against each other. It would Slovenia getting the win thanks to a late Goal by Robert Koren. They take control of the Group with 3 points over the US and England's 1 point.

Meanwhile Group D started their competition with Ghana vs. Serbia. It was tied throughout the game until the 84' when Zdravko Kuzmanovic of Serbia was called for a handball in his own penalty box. Asamoah Gyan would take a penalty kick as a result and score the game's only goal giving Ghana a 1-0 victory. It would be a African nation's first win in this World Cup.

The rest of Group D would finish up with Germany playing against Australia. Germany would own this game as they took a 2-0 lead going into the 2nd half. Any chance of a comeback was crushed when Australia's Tim Cahill was Red Carded and left Australia a man short. Germany would score two more goals and win this match, 4-0. This is the most goals scored in a match so far in this tournament and shows that Germany is the best of Group D and will probably go well beyond the Group stage.

One Pitch, One Grand Slam

Saturday was a big day for young rookie Daniel Nava. He was called up to the Red Sox from Triple A and was put in the lineup as a the Left Fielder. His first Major League at bat would come up in the bottom of the 2nd with the bases loaded as the Red Sox were trailing the Phillies 2-1. The first pitch came from Joe Blanton and Nava drove it into the bullpens in RF for a Grand Slam. Nava becomes the second player in MLB history to hit a Grand Slam off the first pitch he saw in the Majors. The other one to do it was Kevin Kouzmanoff back in 2006. Nava would finish the game 2-4 with that Grand Slam and a 2B as the Red Sox win it, 10-2. Nava has probably bought himself a spot in the lineup for now with that lucky swing.

South Korea Prevails Over the Greeks, Argentina Beats Nigeria, and the USA Survives a Match against England

Three matches were played at the World Cup today with the first one being South Korea vs. Greece. I'm sure Greece needed the victory not just because of the World Cup but to get their minds of the economic crisis at home. No stress relief was found, however, as South Korea won 2-0. Meanwhile the other two teams in that group (B), Argentina and Nigeria, faced off. Argentina would win the match and give Diego Maradona his first World Cup win as manager. Despite Argentina's great offensive work in this match, they only put up one goal with Gabriel Heinze off a corner in the early minutes. The final score was 1-0.

The last match featured the US vs. England. This match has been hyped for months in the US as a chance to gain some respect in the international scene. England, though, would strike first and quickly with Steven Gerrard scoring in the 4'. The US would catch a huge break when Clint Dempsey scored a goal in the 40' thanks to a mishandle by England's goalie, Robert Green. Meanwhile, the US goalie, Tim Howard, was superb unlike Mr. Butterfingers on the other side. He blocked so many crucial shots and kept the US even with England throughout the rest of the match. The end result was a draw at 1-1 with each side taking one point. The US proved they can stand against a traditional powerhouse while England's weaknesses may have been exposed with a weak spot at goalie. Group C seems to be up for grabs as the other two teams in the group, Algeria and Slovenia, will play tomorrow.

The End of the Big 12?

The Big 10 seems to want to consume all in it's paths by adding more schools to make itself stronger. It made an invitation to Nebraska to join it's ranks and Nebraska accepted. This move will take place at the start of the 2011-2012 academic year. While it is only one school going to the Big 10, the Big 12 seems to have been dealt a crippling blow not being able to keep Nebraska. As a result, the whole conference seems destined for destruction. There have been assumptions that half of the schools, including Texas and Oklahoma, will join the Pac 10. This seems already in motion with Colorado announcing it was joining the Pac 10.

How does one team have this much sway? Is the Big 12 really this weak? They can't just get another team from another Conference? I'll admit I don't know the rules or the benefits that each conference has but the whole Big 12 defaults because of Nebraska? Also it seems like the Mountain West Conference seems like the destination for some of the Big 12. I do like the MWC but I like it as a underdog conference. Getting Boise State is the proof of that Underdog role. Then again it seems like the MWC will get the weaker schools of the Big 12, in football at least.

It's very confusing right now but the picture will probably get clearer in a week or so. Until then we just have to sit back just like the NCAA and deal with it.

World Cup Begins with Draws

World Cup competition started today with South Africa vs. Mexico of Group A in Johannesburg. The match had Mexico on the attack constantly but it was the host nation that scored first with Siphiwe Tshabalala making a great break and scoring the first goal. Mexico would not be denied a goal, however, as Rafael Marquez got a great cross and scored the tying the goal later on. The game would end in a draw at 1-1. Mexico should've won 2-1 as they scored a goal that wouldn't count because of a bad offside call. I'm already nervous about the officiating.

Meanwhile in Cape Town, the other half of Group A played each other with France vs. Uruguay. Many of course remember Zinedine Zidane's headbut at the last World Cup that may arguably have costed France the Cup. Zidane is retired now and France looked for a win over Uruguay in their opener. However, Uruguay's defense held through even when they went down a man when Nicolas Lodeiro received a Red Card. They would finish in a scoreless tie.

So all of Group A is tied at one point each. This is group is still up for the taking as day two begins tomorrow with Greece vs. South Korea.

The World Cup Is Back!!!

Finally the Greatest single sporting event is back after four long years of waiting. That's right, SUCK IT ROGER GOODELL!!! Okay, it's actually less than 12 hours away. Of course this is another historic World Cup as it is the first one hosted on the continent of Africa. There are so many questions to answer this time around: Is Brazil going to win another? Is Spain finally over their curse? What the hell is up with Diego Maradona and having "special" toilets installed? We will at least find out the answer to two of those.

There is of course attention being given to the host nation of South Africa. A lot of responsibility befalls them hosting this extraordinary event. Of course they have a tough group stage ahead of them with Mexico, Uruguay, and France. I wouldn't say they are favored to make it out of the group stage, but of course they have their nation's home support behind them. They face Mexico tomorrow morning.

As a nation, there is some attention being given to the US team. They had a magnificent run in the Confederations Cup a year ago in South Africa and many want an encore of that performance. Our group has England, Algeria and Slovenia. The US should be able to edge out Algeria and Slovenia to advance but England will give them problems. It is of course unrealistic for the US to win the World Cup but it is fun to guess where they will be knocked out. I'll make a bold statement and say they get to the quarter finals. The face England first on Saturday morning.

Then the most important question of all: Who will the World Cup? I can tell what region the winner will come from: South America or Europe. There has never been a World Cup winner outside of those continents. With that being said, names like France, Italy, and Brazil come to mind immediately. I will make another bold prediction by saying that Spain will win the World Cup and put to rest any curse they have.

This month long event begins tomorrow as the world will stand still to watch a new Champions be crowned.

P.S. Or various countries will riot as soon as they're eliminated. I LOVE FOOTBALL!!!

The Second Fall of Troy

USC has been punished pretty hard by the NCAA for giving illegal gifts to Reggie Bush. They have banned them from postseason bowl play for two years, they will lose 30 scholarships, get 4 years of probation, and have 14 wins vacated from 2004 to 2005. There was also mentioning of other student athletes they recruited like OJ Mayo. USC seems to have been pulling a fast one for years and now the NCAA does something about it? Also there won't likely be any penalties given to Bush, Pete Carroll, or OJ Mayo considering none of them are at USC anymore. Lane Kiffin gets this steaming pile of crap (though Kiffin was there for part of Carroll's tenure). There is some speculation that they could also lose their National Title of 2004. How good does Pete Carroll seem now, Seattle?

The Chicago Blackhawks Win the Stanley Cup in an OT Win

The Chicago Blackhawks have been waiting 49 years for another Stanley Cup Title. Their wait has ended. The series was at 3-2 in favor of the Blackhawks heading into game 6 in Philadelphia. The Flyers were desperate trying to keep the series alive. Scott Hartnell managed to score a goal that tied it at 3 with just less than 4 minutes in regulation. OT came and the Flyers came on the offensive but the Blackhawks managed to fight them off. Over 4 minutes in OT had passed when Patrick Kane of Blackhawks made the Stanley Cup winning goal scoring between the legs of Michael Leighton hitting the back corner of the net. The light didn't go off but Kane knew he made the shot as he celebrated the win.

The longest drought in Hockey is over as the Blackhawks end their 49 year slump. It was fitting in a way for Patrick Kane, the top goal scorer for the Blackhawks in the season, to score the game winning goal. Johnathan Toews was the named the Playoff MVP with the Conn Smythe Trophy. He touched the Stanley Cup first (as captain) then he handed it Marian Hossa who has been to three straight Stanley Cup Finals and finally gets on the winning side. It is sad to see the Cinderella Story of the Flyers playoff run come to an end considering all they had overcome. But the night belongs to Blackhawks as their names will go down in history and on Lord Stanley's Cup.

Strasburg Dominates his Debut

The baseball world has been hyping Stephen Strasburg so much ever since he got picked number one overall in last year's draft by the Washington Nationals. Well, he lived up to the hype. After a couple months of pitching well in the minors, Stephen Strasburg made his MLB debut dismantling the Pirates on the way to a 5-2 win for the Nationals. He pitched 94 pitches in 7 innings, allowed 2 earned runs off a home run, and struckout 14 on the way to his first W. He destroyed hitters with that overpowering 100 MPH Fastball and his hard Curveball. Those 40,000 plus fans (YEAH, THAT'S RIGHT) saw one of the best MLB debuts in history. Strasburg will be on a leash this season so that he doesn't get overworked but this is a great sign of things to come for the Nationals.

Nationals Take Harper in MLB Draft

The MLB Draft came around and once again the Nationals had the first pick. Last year they picked Stephen Strasburg, who's debut is highly anticipated for tomorrow. This year they took Bryce Harper of the College of Southern Nevada which is a Junior College. This marks the highest pick for a Junior College Player ever in the MLB Draft. Bryce Harper, though, is not of college age as he is only 17 years old. He was taken as a outfielder though he can play as a catcher. Perhaps Harper can be a great hitter one day but it will take a couple years before he will play in the majors.

The Return of the King... of Clay

Rafael Nadal has reclaimed his throne at the French Open. He won his 5th title at the event defeating Robin Soderling in three sets, 6-4, 6-2, 6-4. This was also revenge for Rafa as Soderling was the one who eliminated him from the French Open last year. This is Rafa's 7th Grand Slam victory as the US Open is the only Slam he hasn't won. With this win, Rafa will reclaim the Number one spot in the world from Roger Federer. Rafa is truly on top of the tennis world right now. However, Wimbledon is only a English Channel's throw away and Federer might take back the top ranking there. Rafa will be trying to win his 2nd Wimbledon Title.

P.S. Only guessing on the ranking things. It's based off of a points system that's a little complicated. Rafa will be #1 for sure, however.

An Italian Grand Slam Winner

A first has happened at Roland Garros: Francesca Schiavone has become the first woman from Italy to win a Grand Slam event. She fought through this tournament and managed to beat Samantha Stosur in two sets to claim the French Open. Of course this is Schiavone's first Grand Slam title and it is always great to see someone win a Grand Slam for the first time no matter what country they are from. Schiavone is almost 30 years old and has been playing professionally since 1998. She may not have that much time left in her career, comparatively speaking of course, but at least she can now say she won a Grand Slam title.

John Wooden: 1910-2010

At the age of 99 years young, John Wooden, the so called Wizard of Westwood, died on June 4, 2010. He was a legendary College Basketball coach who coached the UCLA Bruins from 1948-1975. His overall record was 664-162 (.804) and would lead the Bruins to a unbelievable 10 National Titles over the 12 year period from 1964-1975. No other college program has matched Wooden's Championships and no coach has ever matched his brilliance. He is the best college basketball coach of all time and maybe the best coach of any sport. May the Wizard rest in peace while his legacy lives on.

Ken Griffey Jr.: The Kid and The Legend

After 22 seasons in baseball, Ken Griffey Jr. has retired from the game. He was known mainly as a Seattle Mariner becoming a hitting sensation threw the 1990's. He was a threat at the plate with that perfect swing of his and a threat in the outfield with his speed and great grabs. He would join the Cincinnati Reds in 2000 and stay there until 2008 when he was traded to the White Sox. He would come back to the Mariners for 2009 and a bit of 2010. Griffey though would lack the effectiveness that he once had and figured to call it quits. He finishes his career with 630 Home Runs (5th all time), 2781 hits, 1836 RBI's, and a career .284 batting average.

Like every career, there are regrets that Griffey had. He never got to play in a World Series. The closest he got was when the Mariners played the Indians in the 1995 ALCS where the Indians won the series 4-2. The other great regret was Cincinnati and the all the injuries. While it was not Cincinnati's fault at all and Griffey wanted to go because it was his home for many years, injuries would destroy his career and any shot at the All Time Home Run record. Griffey would still end up one of the best sluggers ever finishing 5th on the All Time Home Run list with 630. In my opinion, he was the best the player of the 1990's and possibly of the Steroid Era as there has never been any indication that Griffey was juicing. He was truly a legend of his time and one of the best players ever.

Everyone Hates the Ump

This has to be one of the most disappointing nights in the history of baseball. Armando Galarraga of the Detroit Tigers had a perfect game going in the ninth inning with 2 outs against the Cleveland Indians. He was pitching well, his defense was doing well, the ump was not. Jason Donald of the Indians hits a ball to the first baseman forcing Galarraga to cover first. He catches the ball and was about to celebrate when Donald was called safe by First Base Umpire Jim Joyce. The stadium was shocked as replay would later show that he was out. Galarraga would get the next guy out and complete the shut out while being robbed of history.

This has to be the most hated Ump in baseball. Jim Joyce would later say in a sadness "I just cost that kid a Perfect Game." Galarraga was so close to having the 21st perfect game and the third in a month's time. It isn't right to have this taken away because of a missed call. Sure it was a close play but this is history we are talking about. This event has to bring back the issue of Instant Replay in baseball. They could've reversed the call and given the Perfect Game to Galarraga. There has to be change in the way calls are made in baseball in order to preserve the integrity of the game.

P.S. You know what, I DON'T CARE!!! ARMANDO GALARRAGA THREW "THE" PERFECT GAME WITH 28 UP AND 28 DOWN!!!

Federer Eliminated from Roland Garros

Roger Federer will not be in the semifinals of Roland Garros. Federer has been eliminated in the Quarterfinal round by Robin Soderling in 4 sets. Federer's streak of 23 straight Semifinals appearances in a Grand Slam comes to an end with this upset. This might be a sign that Federer is declining in ability (YEAH!!!). He is still a great threat for any Grand Slam event but this might be the point where he starts to go down hill. It happens to all athletes and the late 20's is where Tennis players start there descent.

Roland Garros is now there for the taking. Rafael Nadal is now presumed the favorite as he won 4 straight French Opens before Federer won the Slam last year. He will face Nicolas Almagro in his Quarterfinal match.

Damn You Jimenez!!!

Okay, I'll admit it. Ubaldo Jimenez is a better pitcher than Timmy (for now). The Rockies and the Giants played game one of a three game series with Ubaldo Jimenez going up against Tim Lincecum. Timmy continued to struggle allowing 3 earned runs in 5.2 innings. Jimenez, on the other hand, was automatic pitching a complete game shut out with 9 K's. The Rockies won, 4-0. Jimenez also becomes the first pitcher in baseball to 10 wins this season as he is now 10-1. As for Timmy, I'm getting concerned as this is his third bad outing in a row. I hope he turns it around in a hurry or else the Giants have no chance for life in October.