Kenny's NCAA Fan With Pride Talk

91st PGA WINNER: Y.E.Yang

2009-08-17T10:31:00.000-07:00

The 19th hole was emotion packed at the 91st PGA Championship. Tiger Woods viving for his 5th PGA Championship and 110th ranked Y.E. Yang viving for his first PGA Championship, went club to club for the title.

Tiger started strong, and quickly lost his edge -- putting was the culprit. So close yet so far away sums up Tiger's chance at winning his 5th PGA title.

Yang finished 8 with a total score of 280. Woods, his closest competitor, posted a 5 283 that earned him a disappointing second place finish in the tournament.

Y. E. Yang is the first Asian to win the PGA Championship.

Michael Vick returns to Football

2009-08-17T10:11:00.000-07:00

Its official, Micheal Vick, a former Virginia Tech quarterback, is free from prison and is returning to football.

Vick, a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback in six seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, will be used in a variation of the Wildcat formation.

The Philadelphia Eagles signed Michael Vick for a one-year contract that includes a club option for 2010!

Will Michael's game be as good as his pre-prision days? Time will tell.

Michael Vic stats with the Atlanta Falcolns:

Height: 6-0 Weight: 215 Age: 29

Born: 6/26/1980 Newport News , VA

College: Virginia Tech

Experience: 7th season

High School: Warwick HS [Newport News, VA]

2006
Passing Yards = 2,474
2005
Passing Yards = 2,412
2004
Passing Yards = 2,313
2003
Passing Yards = 585
2002
Passing Yards = 2,936
2001
Passing Yards = 788

TOTAL Passing Yards = 11.505

What does Duke, Connecticut, LSU and Arizona State have in common?

2009-08-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

Duke, Connecticut, LSU and Arizona State will host regionals of the 25th NIT Season Tip-Off!

November 16th the NIT season gets underway - mark your calendar.

November 17th - The first-round winners meeting.

November 25th - The four regional winners advance to the semifinals at New York's Madison Square Garden.

November 27th - The championship game!

Aaron Corp, USC quarterback out for two weeks

2009-08-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

According to ESPN ...

A small crak on the head of his left fibula will take USC quarterback Aaron Corp out of the game for two weeks. The injury occured when a lineman rolled into his knee. The X-rays revealed no ligament damage and will not require surgery.

In his place, Touted true freshman Matt Barkley will take over the first-team offense in his absence. As a former Gatorade National Player of the year, Barkley loves sports - he signed up for an upper-division sports communication class to help him understand the sports world.

NSCAA Poll Released - Preseason Division

2009-08-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

Whose #1 on the National Scoccer Coaches Association of America (NCAA)preseason poll? According to Flordia Athletics -- 2008 champion North Carolina!!!

Whose #10 on the National Scoccer Coaches Association of America (NCAA)preseason poll? According to Flordia Athletics -- University of Florida!!! U of FL is making history -- it's the 13th consecutive season that Florida appears in the NSCAA preseason poll in the 15-year history of the program.

The 2009 regular season is perched for more history making for U of Florida Gators.

August 28-30 -- mark your calendars, its the openeing weekend for the Gator's. They face Florida International and USF at the Pressly Stadium.

The 2009 Big East Countdown is on ...

2009-08-13T06:26:00.000-07:00

The BIG EAST race has everyone anxiously awaiting the results.

The records are impressive -- but who will win the championship?

Cincinnati
2008 Record: 11-3 (6-1), Big East Champs, Orange Bowl

Connecticut
2008 Record: 8-5 (3-4), International Bowl

Louisville
2008 Record: 5-7 (1-6)

Pittsburgh
2008 Record: 9-4 (5-2)

Rutgers
2008 Record: 8-5 (5-2), Papajohns.com Bowl

South Florida
2008 Record: 8-5 (2-5), St. Petersburg Bowl

Syracuse
2008 Record: 3-9 (1-6)

West Virginia
2008 Record: 9-4 (5-2), Meineke Car Care Bowl

The 2009 season is certain to make history!

Maui Basketball Invitational - Nov 25th

2009-08-07T14:09:00.000-07:00

Arizona will met Wisconsin in LAHAINA, Hawaii on November 25, 2009 for the championship game sponsored by EA Sports.

The championship game is Nov. 25 and the tournament is sponsored by EA Sports.

Angel Shamlin Head Coach at Chico State

2009-08-07T14:00:00.000-07:00

Assistant Softball Coach to Head Coach, Angel Shamblin has made the news.

Athletic Director Anita Barker officially introduced Angel at the press conference at the Acker Gym at California State University at Chico.

Shamblin qualifications are certain to led the team to great victories:
* Six years as varsity head coach at the Pleasant Valley High School
* She led the Vikings to the CIF Northern Section Championship both years, posting a combined 64-9-1 record and losing only once in 28 home games.

Congratulations to Angel Shamblin!

Arkansas running back Broderick Green cleared to play

2009-07-31T06:34:00.000-07:00

Running back Broderick Green has been cleared to play.

Green, a 6-foot-2, 248-pound running back from USC will not sit out a season at Arkansas. With six games and 168 yards on 32 carries at USC, he is ready to take the field.

Will the Big Ten football game move to Wrigley Field?

2009-07-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

Illinois and Northwestern are talking about it.

Associate Press reports...

"Wolf says the schools have a lot of details to work out, among them the financial arrangements and logistics of turning Wrigley's surface into a football field. But Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald and Illinois' Ron Zook like the idea."

Will the switch from Ryan Field to Wrigley Field take place? Time will tell.

Tim Floyd resigned as head coach of USC

2009-07-31T06:02:00.000-07:00

Per espn ...

The USC Trojans are in the news -- this time with the announcement of Tim Floyd's resignation as head basketball coach following allegations that thousands of dollars in cash and gifts were funneled to Mayo by a representative of a sports agency.

Floyd led the Trojans to the NCAA tournament three consecutive seasons, a first in the program's history, and this year he coached them to the Pac-10 tournament title. The Trojans lost to Michigan State in the second round of this year's NCAA tournament. Overall, he was 85-50 in four seasons.

Richard Goodman felony charges DROPPED

2009-07-31T05:42:00.000-07:00

Per www.espn.com

Florida State Wide receiver Richard Goodman was reinstated to the team following the dropping of the charge of aggravated battery.

Goodman was among five players suspended for a game last season for the fight with members of a fraternity. Goodman was suspended from the team after his May arrest until the charge was resolved

Mike Murphy named new head coach at Penn lacrosse program

2009-07-31T05:28:00.000-07:00

The University of Pennsylvania has a new head coach for the lacrosse program -- Mike Murphy.

Per www.ncaa.com

Franklin Field is no stranger to Murphy -- he was the Quakers assistant coach in 2001 and 2002 (as defensive coordinator).

Murphy credentials speak for themselves:

* Attended Duke University, where he was a three-year starter for the nationally ranked Blue Devils and captain of the 1991 team.
* He graduated with a degree in history and political science.
* Holds a master's degree in higher education management from Penn, earned in May 2004
* Member of the Division III NCAA Championships Committee since August 2005 and has served as its chair since 2006
* He is a board member of the Intercollegiate Men's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IMLCA)
* Coached the South Team at the 2005 Division III North/South All-Star Game

Week 14 & 15 - FBS Calendar

2009-07-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

NCAA.com has your Week 14 & 15 schedules. Mark your calendar and prepare for two weeks of championship games.

Don't MISS ...
Thursday, Dec. 3 - Oregon State at Oregon
Saturday, Dec. 5 - ACC Championship Game
Saturday, Dec. 5 - Big 12 Championship Game
Saturday, Dec. 5 - SEC Championship Game

Keep YOUR eye on ...
Saturday, Dec. 5 - Arizona at USC
Saturday, Dec. 5 - Cincinnati at Pittsburgh & West Virginia at Rutgers

Saturday, Dec. 12 - Army vs. Navy (Philadelphia)

Texas Tech's Harrell heads to Canada

2009-07-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

When the offer doesn't come from the NFL, you go elsewhere. For Graham Harrell it is Canada.

Per CBSSports.com, the record-setting Texas Tech quarterback signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Thursday!

NCAA Division I career leader in touchdown passes didn't result in a draft pick nor did his workout with the Cleveland Browne result in a contract.

The All-Sec team is revealed

2009-07-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

The surprises abound with the release of The 2009 coaches preseason All-SEC team.

Per http://www.secsports.com:

First-Team Offense
TE Richard Dickson, LSU 6-3 246 Sr. Ocean Springs, Miss.
*OL Ciron Black, LSU 6-5 325 Sr. Tyler, Texas
OL Mike Johnson, Alabama 6-6 305 Sr. Pensacola, Fla.
OL Mike Pouncey, Florida 6-5 312 Jr. Lakeland, Fla.
OL John Jerry, Ole Miss 6-5 350 Sr. Batesville, Miss.
C Maurkice Pouncey, Florida 6-5 312 Jr. Lakeland, Fla.
*WR Julio Jones, Alabama 6-4 210 So. Foley, Ala.
WR A.J. Green, Georgia 6-4 207 So. Summerville, S.C.
QB Tim Tebow, Florida 6-3 240 Sr. Jacksonville, Fla.
RB Michael Smith, Arkansas 5-7 176 Sr. Tallahassee, Fla.
RB Charles Scott, LSU 5-11 233 Sr. Saline, La.

Second-Team Offense
TE D.J. Williams, Arkansas 6-2 251 Jr. Little Rock, Ark.
OL Lee Ziemba, Auburn 6-8 285 Jr. Rogers, Ark.
OL Clint Boling, Georgia 6-5 297 Jr. Alpharetta, Ga.
#OL Chris Scott, Tennessee 6-5 346 Sr. Riverdale, Ga.
#OL Carl Johnson, Florida 6-6 330 Jr. Durham, N.C.
#OL Cordy Glenn, Georgia 6-5 331 So. Riverdale, Ga.
C Josh McNeil, Tennessee 6-4 280 Sr. Collins, Miss.
WR Brandon LaFell, LSU 6-3 209 Sr. Houston, Texas
WR Dexter McCluster, Ole Miss 5-8 165 Sr. Largo, Fla.
QB Jevan Snead, Ole Miss 6-3 215 Jr. Stephenville, Texas
RB Anthony Dixon, Mississippi State 6-1 235 Sr. Jackson, Miss.
RB Jeff Demps, Florida 5-8 176 So. Winter Garden, Fla.

Third-Team Offense
TE Aaron Hernandez, Florida 6-3 255 Jr. Bristol, Conn.
OL Jacques McClendon, Tennessee 6-3 324 Sr. Cleveland, Tenn.
OL Zipp Duncan, Kentucky 6-5 291 Sr. Magnolia, Ky.
OL Mitch Petrus, Arkansas 6-4 315 Sr. Carlisle, Ark.
OL Trinton Sturdivant, Georgia 6-5 306 So. Wadesboro, N.C.
C Jorge Gonzalez, Kentucky 6-3 300 Sr. Tampa, Fla.
WR Shay Hodge, Ole Miss 6-1 207 Sr. Morton, Miss.
#WR Terrance Tolliver, LSU 6-5 194 Jr. Hempstead, Texas
#WR Gerald Jones, Tennessee 6-0 199 Jr. Oklahoma City, Okla.
#QB Stephen Garcia, South Carolina 6-2 219 So. Lutz, Fla.
#QB Mike Hartline, Kentucky 6-6 206 Jr. Canton, Ohio
RB Mark Ingram, Alabama 5-10 215 So. Flint, Mich.
RB Ben Tate, Auburn 5-11 216 Sr. Newark, Md.

First-Team Defense
DL Terrence Cody, Alabama 6-5 365 Sr. Fort Myers, Fla.
DL Greg Hardy, Ole Miss 6-4 265 Sr. Millington, Tenn.
DL Carlos Dunlap, Florida 6-6 290 Jr. North Charleston, S.C.
LB Rolando McClain, Alabama 6-4 249 Jr. Decatur, Ala.
LB Brandon Spikes, Florida 6-3 245 Sr. Shelby, N.C.
LB Rennie Curran, Georgia 5-11 222 Jr. Snellville, Ga.
LB Eric Norwood, South Carolina 6-1 252 Sr. Acworth, Ga.
*DB Eric Berry, Tennessee 5-11 203 Jr. Fairburn, Ga.
DB Javier Arenas, Alabama 5-9 198 Sr. Tampa, Fla.
DB Trevard Lindley, Kentucky 6-0 179 Sr. Hiram, Ga.
DB Joe Haden, Florida 5-11 185 Jr. Ft. Washington, Md.

Second-Team Defense
DL Charles Alexander, LSU 6-3 310 Sr. Breaux Bridge, La.
DL Antonio Coleman, Auburn 6-3 250 Sr. Mobile, Ala.
#DL Geno Atkins, Georgia 6-1 290 Sr. Pembroke Pines, Fla.
#DL Dan Williams, Tennessee 6-3 327 Sr. Memphis, Tenn.
#DL Malcolm Sheppard, Arkansas 6-2 280 Sr. Bainbridge, Ga.
LB Micah Johnson, Kentucky 6-2 258 Sr. Ft. Campbell, Ky.
LB Patrick Benoist, Vanderbilt 6-0 224 Sr. Southlake, Texas
LB Rico McCoy, Tennessee 6-1 220 Sr. Washington, D.C.
LB Dont'a Hightower, Alabama 6-4 250 So. Lewisburg, Tenn.
DB Ahmad Black, Florida 5-9 190 Jr. Lakeland, Fla.
DB Chad Jones, LSU 6-3 214 Jr. New Orleans, La.
DB Prince Miller, Georgia 5-8 198 Sr. Duncan, S.C.
DB Myron Lewis, Vanderbilt 6-2 205 Sr. Pompano Beach, Fla.

Third-Team Defense
DL Jeff Owens, Georgia 6-3 300 Sr. Sunrise, Fla.
DL Marcus Tillman, Ole Miss 6-4 260 Sr. McCall Creek, Miss.
#DL Rahim Alem, LSU 6-3 254 Sr. New Orleans, La.
#DL Corey Peters, Kentucky 6-3 295 Sr. Louisville, Ky.
LB Chris Marve, Vanderbilt 6-0 228 So. Memphis, Tenn.
LB Jamar Chaney, Mississippi State 6-1 245 Sr. Fort Pierce, Fla.
LB Ryan Stamper, Florida 6-2 232 Sr. Jacksonville, Fla.
LB Perry Riley, LSU 6-1 240 Sr. Ellenwood, Ga.
DB Major Wright, Florida 6-0 200 Jr. Miramar, Fla.
DB Janoris Jenkins, Florida 5-10 185 So. Pahokee, Fla.
#DB Ryan Hamilton, Vanderbilt 6-2 210 Sr. Wycombe, Penn.
#DB Chris Culliver, South Carolina 6-0 190 Jr. Garner, N.C.
#DB Reshad Jones, Georgia 6-2 214 Jr. Atlanta, Ga.

First-Team Specialists
PK Leigh Tiffin, Alabama 6-1 199 Sr. Muscle Shoals, Ala.
P Chas Henry, Florida 6-4 215 Jr. Dallas, Ga.
RS Brandon James, Florida 5-7 186 Sr. St. Augustine, Fla.

Second-Team Specialists
PK Jonathan Phillips, Florida 5-10 210 Sr. Wellington, Fla.
P Brett Upson, Vanderbilt 5-11 185 Sr. Griffin, Ga.
RS Javier Arenas, Alabama 5-9 198 Sr. Tampa, Fla.

Third-Team Specialists
PK Joshua Shene, Ole Miss 5-8 170 Sr. Oklahoma City, Okla.
P Spencer Lanning, South Carolina 5-11 188 Jr. Rock Hill, S.C.
RS Trindon Holliday, LSU 5-5 165 Sr. Zachary, La.

Week 12 -- FBS Schedule

2009-07-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

The FBS Week 12 Schedule is exciting ...

Saturday, Nov. 21 - Ohio State at Michigan
Saturday, Nov. 21 - North Carolina State at Virginia Tech
Saturday, Nov. 21 - Kansas at Texas
Saturday, Nov. 21 - LSU at Ole Miss

and the games to keep an eye on ...

Thursday, Nov. 19 - Colorado at Oklahoma State
Saturday, Nov. 21 - Air Force at BYU
Saturday, Nov. 21 - Cal at Stanford

Powerful teams going head to head. The results are certain to add historical moments to the games of College Football.

Academically ineligible - Johnson and Freeman

2009-07-08T13:49:00.000-07:00

Academics rule in sports -- Washington running backs Brandon Johnson and David Freeman have been ruled academically ineligible for the upcoming season.

Pac-10 blog

ESPN.com's Ted Miller writes about all things Pac-10 in his conference blog.

• Blog network

The announcement from the school came Tuesday.

Johnson, a junior from Hawthorne, Calif., rushed for 194 yards in nine games last season, making him the team's third-leading rusher. Freeman, a sophomore from Inglewood, Calif., ran for 152 yards in four games with the winless Huskies.

Neither player was expected to start for the Huskies this season. After spring practice, Washington listed three freshman -- Chris Polk, Willie Griffin and Demetrius Bronson -- on its depth chart at tailback.

The 23rd Dick Howser Trophy goes to San Diego State's dominant right-handed pitcher Stephen Strasburg

2009-07-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

San Diego State's dominant right-handed pitcher Stephen Strasburg Strasburg is deserving of the award:

* National leader in strikeouts with 195
* No. 2 in NCAA Division I with a 1.32 ERA and hits allowed per nine innings with 5.37 to compliment a 13-1 overall record.
* The 2008 USA Baseball Player of the Year for all divisions
* First selection in the 2009 Major League Baseball free agent draft by the Washington Nationals in June.

Courtesy of NCBWA ...

The Howser Trophy was created in 1987, shortly after Howser's death. Previous winners of the Howser Trophy are Mike Fiore, Miami, 1987; Robin Ventura, Oklahoma State, 1988; Scott Bryant, Texas, 1989; Alex Fernandez, Miami-Dade Community College South, 1990; Frank Rodriguez, Howard College (Texas), 1991; Brooks Kieschnick, Texas, 1992 and 1993; Jason Varitek, Georgia Tech, 1994; Todd Helton, Tennessee, 1995; Kris Benson, Clemson, 1996; J.D. Drew, Florida State, 1997; Eddy Furniss, LSU, 1998; Jason Jennings, Baylor, 1999; Mark Teixeira, Georgia Tech, 2000; Mark Prior, Southern California, 2001; Khalil Greene, Clemson, 2002; Rickie Weeks, Southern, 2003; Jered Weaver, Long Beach State, 2004; Alex Gordon, Nebraska, 2005; Brad Lincoln, Houston, 2006; David Price, Vanderbilt, 2007; and Buster Posey, Florida State, 2008.

Eugene Smith could miss all or part of West Virginia's preseason camp

2009-07-08T12:59:00.000-07:00

Team officials announce Eugene Smith, a West Virginia freshman quarterback, has broken a bone in his left foot and is expected to miss 6-to-8 weeks. The injury occurred late last week in an off-the-field incident.

At 6-foot-4, 190-pounder, Smith was the prized recruit in the Mountaineers' 2009 signing class.

DePauw University will host the 2010 NCAA Divison III Indoor Track & Field Championship

2009-07-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

The location has been announced -- Depauw University!!!

446 partipants will compete in the 2010 NCAA Divison III Men's and Women's Track and Field Championships at DePauw University at the Hollentsteiner Track Center in Greencastle, Indiana.

Mark your calendars for this championship game -- March 12 and 13, 2010.

Farewell to Steve McNair

2009-07-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

Tennessee Titans was the home of Steve McNair.

Per www.espn.com Associate Press ...

The talented, if somewhat unconventional, quarterback gave the rebuilding team a foundation to build on. He also helped turn the renamed Titans into one of the AFC's most consistent winners during his tenure, a team built more on grit and toughness than eye-popping stats.renamed Titans into one of the AFC's most consistent winners during his tenure, a team built more on grit and toughness than eye-popping stats.

What will McNair be remembered for:

* Threw for over 31,000 yards during his career
* Made the Pro Bowl three times
* Will always be remembered for his cool under pressure, so calm attitude.

Shaquille O'Neal teams with the Cleveland Cavaliers

2009-07-02T12:52:00.000-07:00

Shaquille O'Neal made the switch to the Cleveland Cavaliers!

The city of Cleveland welcomed O'Neal -- they have been waiting since 1964 for one of its three pro sports franchises to win a championship.

Sporting #33, this will be the first cold climate O'Neal has played in since his stops in Orlando, Los Angeles, Miami and Phoenix. Dan Gilbert, Cavaliers owner, welcomed him with a pair of winter boots and snow shovel.

Chris Bates - the 10th Princeton Head Coach

2009-07-02T12:45:00.000-07:00

Chris Bates will guide the Princeton Tigers in the next chapter in their storied history.

Graduating from Darmouth in 1990, Bates played attack and midfield and earned All-Ivy League honors.

His impressive coaching career began in 1992 at Archbishop Ryan in Philadelphia. He became an assistant coach at Drexel in 1995 and took over as head coach in 2000.

LSU Tigers WIN 2009 NCAA College World Series

2009-07-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

The Lousiana State University (LSU)Tigers did it again -- this is their sixth National Championship!!!

With a 11-4 victory, LSU forced out the Texas Longhorns to win the the 2009 NCAA College World Steries TITLE!!!

Garrett Gilbert - MAXPREPS 2008-09 MALE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

2009-06-26T06:54:00.000-07:00

Known as the king of Texas quaterbacks, Garrett Gilbert finished with two state championships and 29 straight wins!!!

This 6-foot-4, 218 pound Texas Longhorns football star from Austin took the honors at the MaxPreps Tour of Champions Ceremony Presented by the Army National Guard.

According to Austin Statesmen, Garrett ranks second in state history in career TDs (136), attempts (1,368) and completions (895).

Football coach Pat Fitzgerald - Northwestern Wildcats - extends contract through the 2015 season

2009-06-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

Jim Phillips, Northwestern athletics director announced the new deal in a release on Tuesday.

A former All-American linebacker at Northwestern, Pat Fitzberald has been the Wildcats' head coach since 2006. He joined the coaching staff in 2001.

Pat's wins speak for themself:

- 19-18 in three seasons as head coach
- Led Northwestern to a nine-win season in 2008

Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony

2009-06-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

The Basketball Hall of Fame induction ceremony is only 77 days away! Mark your calendar for September 11, 2009.

The honorees of the Enshrinement Class of 2009 are ...

Michael Jordan
David Robinson
Jerry Sloan
John Stockton
C. Vivian Stringer

Five great athletics who contributed their time and talents to the game of basketball.

FBS Week 4 of the 2009 season GAMES

2009-06-26T05:54:00.000-07:00

Week four of the 2009 season is certain to be full of memorable plays.

Week 4's Can't Miss Games

Thursday, Sept. 24 – Ole Miss at South Carolina

Saturday, Sept. 26 - Iowa at Penn State

Saturday, Sept. 26 – North Carolina at Georgia Tech

Saturday, Sept. 26 – Cal at Oregon

AND keep an eye on these games as well ...

Saturday, Sept. 26 – South Florida at Florida State

Saturday, Sept. 26 – Illinois at Ohio State

Saturday, Sept. 26 – Arizona at Oregon State

2009 Collegiate Woman Athlete of the Year - Courtney Kupets

2009-06-26T05:30:00.000-07:00

The honor goes to ... Courtney Kupets!

According to NCAA ...

The 33rd annual Honda-Broderick Cup was awarded on Juny 22nd to Georgia gymnastics standout - Courtney Kupets.

Kupets is the second gymnast to receive the Honda-Broderick Cup in the 33-year history of the Collegiate Women Sports Awards Program. The award recognizes not only outstanding athletic achievement but also team contributions, scholastics and community involvement.
The first honoree was Missy Marlowe from Utah in 1992.

Courtney Kupets is a women on a mission -- and from her acheivements thus far, she has a bright future ahead of her.

FBS Season Schedule

2009-06-19T13:05:00.001-07:00

The 2009 FBS season starts in September. 15 weeks that kicks off on Thursday night before Labor Day Weekend ..

Thursday, Sept. 3 – Oregon at Boise State

Saturday, Sept. 5 – Virginia Tech vs. Alabama (Atlanta, Ga.)

Saturday, Sept. 5 – BYU vs. Oklahoma (Arlington, Tex.)

Saturday, Sept. 5 – Georgia at Oklahoma State

Monday, Sept. 7 – Miami (Fla.) at Florida State

Other Games To Keep An Eye On

Saturday, Sept. 5 – LSU at Washington

Saturday, Sept. 5 – Maryland at California

Monday, Sept. 7 – Cincinnati at Rutgers

With a schedule like this, you don't want to miss a single game.

NCAA Division I Men's Golf Committee has announced its selection of hosts and sites for 2010 and 2011

2009-06-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

The sites have been selected to host the 2010 and 2011 regional competition of the Division I Men’s Golf Championship.

The NCAA Division I Men's Golf Committee have announced the following for 2010:

Capital City Club in Alpharetta, Ga., with the Georgia Institute of Technology serving as host

The Warren Golf Course on the campus of the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind.

Carlton Oaks Golf Course in San Diego, Calif., HOST: San Diego State University.

The Traditions Club in College Station, Texas HOST: Texas A&M University.

Gold Mountain Golf Club in Bremerton, Wash., HOST: University of Washington.

Yale University Golf Course in New Haven, Conn., HOST: Yale University.

For 2011 regionals...

Omni Tucson National Resort in Tucson, Ariz., HOST: University of Arizona.

The Colorado National Golf Club in Erie, Colo., HOST: University of Colorado, Boulder.

The Golden Ocala Golf Club in Ocala, Fla., HOST: University of Florida.

Wolf Run Golf Club in Zionsville, Ind.,HOST:Indiana University, Bloomington

The Farms Golf Course in Rancho Santé Fe, Calif., HOST: University of San Diego

Pete Dye River Course in Blacksburg, Va., HOST: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Golf enthusiast -- mark your calendars today. The 2010-2011 season is certain to bring history making scores to the game of golf.

John Hopkins extends Dave Pietramala contract for two-years

2009-06-19T12:17:00.000-07:00

Dave Pietramala, lacrose coach, signed a two-year contract extension with John Hopkins University today. This extension takes this dynamic duo through the 2015 season.

Per www.ncaa.com ...courtesy of John Hopkins Univeresity:

With nine seasons to his credit at John Hopkins, Dave has become a staple at the University. His achievements speak for themselves:

A 106-30 (.779) record at Homewood.

He led the Blue Jays to the national championship in 2005 and 2007 and runner-up finishes in 2003 and 2008.

Hopkins also advanced to the national semifinals in 2002 and 2004 and has qualified for the NCAA Tournament in each of Pietramala's nine seasons.

He passed legendary coach Henry Ciccarone (105 wins from 1975-83).

Dave Pietramala has many great achievements in store for the John Hopkins Universities lacross fans.

Washington claims the 2009 National Championship

2009-06-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

Kimi Pohlman gave Washington the decisive run in a 3-2 victory for its first NCAA softball championship Tuesday night.

Kimi is making a name for herself in the world of softball. She was named to the Women's College World Series All-Tournament Team!

National player of the year Danielle Lawrie (42-8) shut out the top-seeded Gators (63-5) the rest of the way to clinch the title with a two-game sweep. Danielle also won the Honda Award!

Kimi and Danielle are women on the move in softball. Their incredible accomplishments thus far are only the beginning of their career accomplishments.

Football Teams to watch for 2009 season

2009-06-15T05:34:00.000-07:00

The BCS Championship run for 09 is in great with three heisman finalist in the pack.

Who are the TOP 10 teams to watch? Per www.ncaa.com ...

Florida – 13-1, BCS Champions, SEC Champions
Georgia Tech – 9-4
LSU – 8-5, Chick-fil-A Bowl Champions
Oklahoma – 13-2, Big 12 Champions
Oklahoma State – 9-4
Ole Miss – 9-4, Cotton Bowl Champions
Oregon – 10-3, Holiday Bowl Champions
Texas – 13-1, Fiesta Bowl Champions
USC – 12-1, Rose Bowl Champions, Pac-10 Champions
Virginia Tech – 10-4, Orange Bowl Champions, ACC Champions

Others To Watch: Alabama,Boise State, Cal, Kansas, Ohio State, Penn State, TCU

Do these match up with your picks?

Southern Miss wins over Georgia Tech

2009-06-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Russ Chandler Stadium hosted the Southern Miss vs. Georgia Tech NCAA Atlanta Regional baseball tournament. The result - Southern Miss captured the title with a 12-8 win.

The Golden Eagles advance to a super regional for the first time in history. They will face Florida next weekend in a super regional in Gainsville, FL.

The Golden Eagles have determination, after six years of trying, they will have their chance to take the championship.

Good luck Golden Eagles!!!

Texas A&M Angies NCAA Golf Champions

2009-06-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

TOLEDO, Ohio - Bronson Burgoon, a senior at Texas A&M and the team's No. 1 player, hit a 125-yard gap wedge from the rough to within three inches of the 18th hole Saturday to win his match and clinch the first NCAA Division I men's golf title for the Aggies!

Inverness Golf Club was the scene of this spectacular shot. And both teammates and the gallery were shocked at the dramatic shot.

Golfweek magazine called it “one of the best shots in college golf history.”

Max Seibald is the WINNER of the 2009 Tewaaraton Trophy

2009-05-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

And the winner is ... Max Seibald!

The 2009 Tewaaraton Trophy is the premier award in collegiate lacaross. Max becamse Cornell's first recipient of the award and the third player in the Tewaaraton's nine-year history to win the trophy despite not winning a national championship.

Max is on a winning streak - he was also named the winner of the Diane Geppi-Aikens Scholarship in recognition of his outstanding commitment to community service. Max accepted the award along with a $5,000 donation to the Dream Factory of Central New York.

A year of great acheivements for Max Seibald.

Danielle Lawrie is the USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year

2009-05-29T13:13:00.000-07:00

Straight from the headlines of NCAA ...

Washington's Danielle Lawrie (Langley, British COlumbia) is the recipient of the 8th Annual USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year Award.

Danielle holds many records: Pac-10 leader in wins, ERA, strikeouts and shutouts. AND, is among the nation’s top three in all four categories. Exceeding the 1,300 career strikeout mark this season, Daneille is making history.

The ASA National Softball Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City will house a replica of the award along with photo's of the winner.

Motor City Bowl Countdown

2009-05-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Mark your calender ... 14604 days to kickoff!

The Motor City Bowl will bring an after Christmas gift to Detroit's Ford Field on December 26, 2009 at 1 p.m.

Who will represent the Mid-American Conference against a Big Ten Team? Time will tell.

According to ESPN, The game will be televised nationally.

Who won last year? Florida Atlantic defeated Central Michigan, 24-21.

Roger Follmer named 2009 National Coach of the Year

2009-05-26T05:56:00.000-07:00

Roger Follmer has been named the 2009 Wilson/Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) NCAA Division III National Coach of the Year!

And its not his first -- Roger also won this prestigous award in 2006! A 1991 graduate of Lindbergh High School in St. Louis, Mo., and a two-year tennis letterman at Purdue University, Roger was named the head coach of the World Team Tennis St. Louis Aces on March 27.

Roger's leadership abilities rose to the top in his eight years at Washington Univeristy. His overall record of 135-44 (.754) established Washington University as one of the premier men's tennis progarms in Divison III. And, to winning the school's first NCAA men's tennis championship in 2008.

Under Roger's leadership, Washington University men's tennis team finished one of the best best seasons in school history!!! They took fourth-place at the 2009 NCAA Division III Championship in Claremont, CA.

Seventh NCAA Divison I Women's Golf Championship - Arizona State WINS

2009-05-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

Arizona State Wins Seventh NCAA Division I Women's Golf Championship!!!

College golf enthusiast converged on Caves Valley Golf Course in Owings Mills, MD to watch Arizona State take the championship!!! Finishing with a 72-hole score of 30-over par 1182 to win the NCAA Divison I Women's Golf Championship, it was Arizon State's seventh NCAA championship and the first since 1998. Way to go Arizona Sun Devils.

The Sun Devils is the #1 team in the golfweek rankings!!! From fifth place to first, this team's determination to win gave them the momentum to press on.

$130M shared among the Big 12 teams

2009-05-22T06:02:00.000-07:00

ESPN announced the BIG NEWS!!!

For the 2008-2009 fiscal year, the conference will distribute a record $130 million amoung its member institutions - 14.5 percent better than last year's previous record of $113.5 million.

Robust growth - you bet!!!

What brought about this increase> Per ESPN ...

1. The strength of our conference, the Big 12 brand, our great fans who travel extremely well and television ratings," Alden said. "With all of that and the job that [Big 12 commissioner] Dan [Beebe] has done, it will bear fruit for the entire league."

2. Two Big 12 teams particpated in the Bowl Championship Series -- by Texas in the Fiesta Bowl and Oklahoma in the BCS National Championship Game. It marked the fourth time in the last six seasons that the Big 12 qualified the maximum two teams into the BCS.

From $113.5 million to $130 million - not bad in these ecomonic times.

What can we expect next year???

Spring Championships Memorial Weekend Coverage

2009-05-22T05:44:00.000-07:00

It's certain to be an exciting weekend on ESPN.

ESPN to televise D-I Softball Super Regionals and D-I Men's Lacrosse Semifinals and Championship.

Check out the full schedule of events at NCAA. It will mark the first time the networks will televise every game from the eight Super Regional sites.

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-22T05:36:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day -- A holiday in honor of the nation’s armed services personnel killed in wartime.

A bit of history ... In 1873 New York became the first state to declare a holiday on May 30. By the end of the 1800s, states throughout the nation had declared Memorial Day a holiday.

Happy Memorial Day!

John Currie NEW Athletic Director for Kansas State

2009-05-19T07:11:00.000-07:00

The news is out ...according to ESPN:

John Currie accepted the position of new Athetic Director for Kansas State. With a five-year contract with an annual base salary of $350,000 plus incentives, this 38-year-old is making news.

Dr. Krik Schulz, new president of Kansas State effective June 15th, introduced John at news conference on Monday.

Two new top leaders with no ties to the school or area -- it's going to be an interesting year!

Sports Betting LEGAL in Delaware

2009-05-19T06:05:00.000-07:00

According to the Associated Press ...

Delaware Governor Jack Markell signed the bill allowing betting on sports into law on Thursday. The only state east of the Mississippi River to allow betting on sports!

BIG news for sports!!! But is it?

Sports betting could face a legal challenge by professional sports leagues.

Governor Markell's plan for legalizing sports lottery is to address a projected shortfall of more than $600 million for the coming fiscal year.

The NFL has already filed a legal brief with the state Supreme Court according to the Wilmington Delaware News Journal. Their argument -- games cannot be considered a situation of chance because skill "plays an impermissible" role.

Nevada, Montana, Oregon and Delaware are the four states grandfathered under a 1992 federal law that bans sports gambling.

When will sports betting be available?

According to the Officials, they expect ---

In three months for sports betting.
In six months for table games such as poker, blackjack, craps and routlette.

History in the making!!!

2010 NCAA Final Four

2009-05-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

NCAA tickets for the Men's and Women's Final Four are on sale ... don't miss the deadline of May 31, 2009. For the Men's Final Four, the application process will end on May 31, 2009 or when 20,000 applications have been received (whichever comes first.)No applications will be accepted after these conditions have been met and the web site will no longer be available.

The all-session ticket prices for the 2010 Men’s and Women’s Final Fours are as follows:

Men’s Final Four: $160 and $180
Women’s Final Four: $175

To fill out your application and mark your calendar today!!! You don't want to miss this historic moment.

Jack Elway quits football

2009-05-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

Jack Elway, son of Hall of Fame quarterback John Elway, quits football and dad is OK with his decision.

Jack Elway, a redshirt freshman at Arizona State, decided to leave the team last month.

Following in the footsteps of a famous father is not easy -- especially when you don't love the sport to the degree necessary to withstand a sport that is both physical and brutal at times.

Jack will remain at Arizona State to complete his education.

Boston College linebacker Mark Herzlich diagnosed with cancer

2009-05-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

Mark returned home to Pennsylvania last Friday after classes at Boston College with some pain in his left knee and throughout his leg.

ACC's Defensive Player of the Year, Mark was diagnosed with Ewing's Sarcoma, a malignant tumor most often found in bone or soft tissue.

The Eagles' seemingly invincible leader turned down the NFL draft to return for his senior season. Per ESPN, Heather Dinich, Mark is a fearless individual who is always ready to take on a tough opponent. His integrity, determination and focus are unmatched.

Mark's record -- he led the Eagles with 110 tackles, six interceptions, eight pass break-ups, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

Farewell to Wayman Tisdale

2009-05-15T11:43:00.001-07:00

After a two year battle with cancer, Wayman Tisdale, the legendary Oklahoma Sooner passed away today. At 44 years old, Wayman was elected to the College Basketball Hall of Fame this year.

Wayman was a three-time All-American at Oklahoma who played 12 seasons in the NBA.

Per ESPN ...

After three years at Oklahoma, Tisdale played in the NBA with the Indiana Pacers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns. The 6-foot-9 forward, with a soft left-handed touch on the court and a wide smile off it, averaged 15.3 points for his career. He was on the U.S. team that won the gold medal in the 1984 Olympics.

Wayman's courage and determination to live beyond the diagnosis touched the hearts and lives of many. He will be missed.

Boise State -- $150,000 donation

2009-05-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

The Associate Press has the story -- Boise State coach Chris Petersen and his wife, Barbara, are chipping in $150,000 to help build a new campus home for business and economic studies.

Awards and accolades keep accumulating for Coach Peterson ... from 1988 to 2009, his goals cataputed him to success, time and time again.

2008 Western Athletic Conference Coach of the Year
2008 Finalist for the Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year
2006 winner of the Bryant award

and the list goes on an on.

His accomplishments never cease. Coach Peterson's donation of $150,000 contributes to the 35 million dollar fundraising campaign for a new College of Business and Economics!

Congratulations to UCLA Women's Water Polo Team

2009-05-13T06:58:00.000-07:00

UCLA made history -- they secured their 11th women's water polo national championship and seventh NCAA title!!!

Per www.ncaa.com ...

College Park, MD was the location of this tremendous accomplishment. UCLA defeated crosstown rival USC, 5-4, at Maryland's Epply Recreation Center.

Senior Tanya Gandy led the Bruins (25-6) with three goals, and senior goalkeeper Brittany Fullen collected 12 saves.

UCLA improved to 20-1 all-time in NCAA Tournament play and has now won its last 17 tournament matches (dating back to 2002).

Way to GO UCLA!!!

Class of 2009 - College Hall of Fame

2009-05-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

The field was tough, but the winners rose to the top. Determination and perseverance pays off! Congratulations to the Class of 2009 College Hall of Fame!!!

Pervis Atkins, New Mexico State HB
Tim Brown, Notre Dame WR
Chuck Cecil, Arizona DB
Ed Dyas, Auburn FB
Major Harris, West Virginia QB
Gordon Hudson, BYU TE
William Lewis, Harvard player
Woodrow Lowe, Alabama LB
Ken Margerum, Stanford WR
Steve McMichael, Texas DL
John Robinson, UCLA/UNLV coach
Chris Spielman, Ohio State LB
Larry Station, Iowa LB
Pat Swilling, Georgia Tech DE
Gino Torretta, Miami QB
Curt Warner, Penn State RB
Grant Wistrom, Nebraska DE

NCAA Division 1 Women's Lacrosse Committee

2009-05-04T08:27:00.000-07:00

16 teams are ready to compete in the 2009 NCAA Division I Women's Lacross Championship!!!

According to NCAA ...

Preliminary-round games: May 10th, eight first round games will be conducted and four quarterfinal games will be played Saturday, May 16th.

Towson University will host the winners of the four quarterfinal games on May 22 and 24 at Johnny Unitas Stadium in Towson, Maryland.

The semifinal games will be broadcast live on CBS College Sports Network at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Eastern time, Friday, May 22. The championship game will be broadcast live at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, May 24th.

Teams Receiving Automatic Qualification:

America East Confernece Boston U
Atlantic Coast Conference Maryland
Atlantic 10 Conference Massachusetts
Big East Conference Notre Dame
Colonial Athletic Conference Towson
Ivy Group Pennsylvania
Patriot League Colgate
Play-in-Game Fairfield
Northeast at Metro Atlantic Fairfield

Stay tuned for the results!!!

Double Header ends the regular season

2009-05-04T06:56:00.000-07:00

Sophmore Sarah McCloud and senior Christie Hamilton of the Georgia Bulldogs celebrated a grand victory on Sunday -- no-hitter at Bogle Park - 8-0 and 8-2!!!

Sunday's double header was the finale of the the regular season play for both Georgia and Arkansas.

2009 Regular season ...

Georgia Bulldogs - 39 -9 overall record and an 18-7 mark in Southeastern Conference action.

Arknansas Razorback: 27-26 overall and 10-16 in league play.

What's on the horizon for the Georgia Bulldogs:

They travel to Knoxville, Tenn on May 7-9 to face the #6 seed Kentucky Wildcats in the first round. Georga Bulldogs are No. 3 seed for the SEC Tournament hosted by the University of Tennessee at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium.

2009 NFL First Draft Picks

2009-04-27T06:15:00.001-07:00

2009 NFL First Draft Team Picks -- the field has narrowed and the winners are selected!!!

1 - Georgia - Matthew Stafford, QB

2 - Baylor - Jason Smith, OT

3 - LSU - Tyson Jackson, DE

4 - Wake Forest - Aaron Curry, OLB

5 - Souther Cal - Mark Sanchez, QB

6 - Alabama - Andre Smith, OT

7 - Maryland - Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR

8 - Virginia - Eugene Monroe, OT

9 - Boston College - B.J. Raji. DT

10 - Texas Tech - Michael Crabtree, WR

11 - Penn State - Asron Maybin, DE

12 - Georgia, Knowshon Moreno, RB

13 - Texas, Brian Orakpo, DE

14 - Ohio State - Malcolm Jenkins, CB

15 - Southern Cal - Brian Cushing, OLB

16 - Northern Illinois - Larry English, DE

17 - Kansas State - Josh Freeman, QB

18 - Tennessee - Robert Ayers, LB

19 -Missouri - Jeremy Maclin, WR

20 - Oklahoma State - Brandon Pettigrew, TE

21 - California - Alex Mack, C

22 - Florida - Percy Harvin, WR

23 - Mississippi - Michael Oher, OT

24 - Mississippi - Peria Jerry, DT

25 - Illinois - Vontae Davis, CB

26 - Southern Cal - Clay Matthews, OLB

27 - Connecticut - Donald Brown, RB

28 -Louisville - Eric Wood, C

29 - North Carolina - Hakeen Nicks, WR

30 - Rutgers - Kenny Britt, WR

31 - Ohio State, Chris Wells, RB

32 - Missouri - Evander Hood, DT

Congratulations to the new 2009 NFL Draft Pick!!!

Women's Indoor Field Athlete of the Year

2009-04-23T11:53:00.000-07:00

The honor goes to Destinee Hooker, junior at University of Texas.

Destinee shattered a nine-year-old collegiate indoor record by clearing 6'6" - a full inch higher than her previous best!!!

This historic jump made her the first athlete in Texas women's track history to receive the Women's Indoor Field Athlete of the Year award!!!

NCAA Public Recognition Awards 2009

2009-04-23T11:39:00.000-07:00

NCAA Public Recognition Awards for their most recent multi-year Academic Progress Rates goes to University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill men's basketball team and University of Connecticut women's basketball team!!! These awards are given each year to teams scoring in the top 10 percent in each sport with their APRs.

Per NCAA.com, the 767 teams publicly recognized this year for high achievement represent 11.9 percent of the approximately 6,484 Division I teams. The list includes 448 women's teams and 319 men's or mixed squads.

NFL 2009 Draft countdown ... April 25-26

2009-04-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

The NFL Draft countdown is ticking …

Who are the TOP Ten Quarterback Prospects?

Boltus, Jason QB 6'3" 225 lbs Hartwick

Bomar, Rhett QB 6'2" 225 lbs Sam Houston State

Brandstater, Tom QB 6'5" 220 lbs Fresno State

Brown, Nathan QB 6'1" 219 lbs Central Arkansas

Cantwell, Hunter QB 6'4" 235 lbs Louisville

Carpenter, Rudy QB 6'2" 218 lbs Arizona State

Clement, Chase QB 6'1" 210 lbs Rice

Conley, T.J QB 6'3" 212 lbs Idaho

Daniel, Chase QB 6'0" 218 lbs Missouri

Davis, Nate QB 6'1" 226 lbs Ball State

Check out the full list of the QB Prospects .

The countdown is on ... this weekend!!!

And the 2009 National Gymnastic Champions are ...

2009-04-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

The GEORGIA Gymdogs took the honor at the 2009 National Gymnastics Championship.

Scoring perfect 10's on bars and vault, Courney Kupet's incredible triumph spurred the Gymdogs to victory!

And she wasn't the only one with a REMARKABLE triumph - every gymnast on the team deserves a High Five for their incredible performances. And for coach Suzanne Voculan - her fourth straight title. Suzanne is the winningest coach in the history of American women's sports!

The Georgia Gymdog's claimed their championship as the countries BEST GYMNASTS on Saturday after days of constant competition.

Congratulations Georgia Gymdogs.

Update -- 2009 National Collegiate Women's Gymnastics Championships

2009-04-17T05:51:00.000-07:00

Update -- 2009 National Collegiate Women's Gymnastics Championships.

Friday’s event brings Alabama and Arkansas to the Super Six Team Finals along with Utah, joining afternoon qualifiers Georgia, Florida and LSU.

The completion is fierce with strong competitors:

Final Team Results:
1. Alabama - 197.025
2. Arkansas - 196.95
3. Utah - 196.625 (advances to Super Six)
4. UCLA - 196.625
5. Oregon State - 195.35
6. Illinois- 195.05

Who took top honors on the first day?

Vault: 1. Michelle Stout, Arkansas (9.975), 2. Michelle Rodriguez, Oregon State (9.95), 2. Vanessa Zamarripa, UCLA (9.95); 2. Kristina Baskett (9.95)

Bars: 1. Ashley Priess, Alabama (9.90); 1. Ariana Berlin, UCLA (9.90); 1. Kristina Baskett, Utah (9.90); 4. Morgan Dennis, Alabama (9.875), 4. Michelle Stout, Arkansas (9.875); 4. Elise Wheeler, Southern Utah (9.875)

Beam: 1. Ricki Lebegern, Alabama (9.90); 1. Ashley Priess, Alabama (9.90); 2. Alex La Chance, Arkansas (9.90); 1. Sarah Nagashima, Arkansas (9.90); 1. Melissa Fernandez, Illinois (9.90); 1. Vanessa Zamarripa, UCLA (9.90); 1. Kristina Baskett, Utah (9.90); 1. Elise Wheeler, Southern Utah (9.90)

Floor: 1. Daria Bijak, Utah (9.90); 2. Mandi Rodriguez, Oregon State (9.875); 2. Vanessa Zamarippa, UCLA (9.875); 2. Brittani McCullough, UCLA (9.875); 4. Kylee Botterman, Michigan (9.875).

NCAA announcement: New Jersey City University to host the 2010 NCAA National Women’s Bowling Championship

2009-04-16T13:27:00.001-07:00

The first national championship event hosted by NJCU in its athletics history!

The seventh-annual championship will be held from April 8-10, 2010 at Carolier Lanes in North Brunswick, New Jersey.

The Gothic Knights have hosted several major sectional and regional NCAA basketball tournament events - the 1980 and 1986 regional finals, the 1990 and 2004 second rounds and the 1995 and 1998 first rounds, but this will be their FIRST national event.

NJCU will become the first Division III institution to host the NCAA National Collegiate Women's Bowling Championship.

If you are a Women's Bowling fan and you live in North Brunswick ... mark you calender so you won't miss a moment of this exciting event.

2009 National Collegiate Women's Gymnastics Championship

2009-04-15T06:16:00.000-07:00

2009 National Collegiate Women’s Gymnastics Championship

1 day and accounting …

The University of Nebraska, Lincoln will host the 2009 National Collegiate Women’s Gynmastics Championship at the Bob Devaney Sports Center April 16-18.

Team Competition with National Qualifying Scores:

Georgia – 394.955

Utah – 394-865

Alabama – 393.925

Stanford – 393.025

LSU – 393.635

Florida – 393.490

UCLA – 393.205

Oregon State – 393.320

Arkansas – 392.740

Penn State – 392.040

Illinois - 392.715

Who will take top honors? Stay tuned for the results!!!

NCBWA Division I Baseball Poll

2009-04-15T05:30:00.000-07:00

National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association Division I Baseball Poll as of 04/13/2009.

NCBWA continues its tradition of NCAA Division I polls predictions and weekly surveys.

From 32 college baseball writers and related media persons from throughout the nation, the best are chosen. The Top 35 has narrowed down to 30.

After a 3-1 week, the Tigers became the fifth team to land on top of the NCBWA poll this season. GO LSU!!!

Georgia fell back to second place, but the Big 12 leads all conferences with seven ranked teams. Six among the top 30 are ACC.

1 - LSU
2 - Georgia
3 - Rice
4 - North Carolina
5 - Arizona St.
6 - Texas
7 - UC Irvine
8 - Cal St. Fullerton
9 - Miami (Fla.)
10 - Oklahoma
11 - Georgia Tech
12 - Arkansas
13 - Baylor
14 - Coastal Caro.
15 - Florida St.
16 - Mississippi
17 - Virginia
18 - Clemson
19 - Cal Poly
20 - East Carolina
21 - TCU
22 - Florida
23 - Texas A&M
24 - San Diego St.
25 - Oregon St.
26 - Ohio St.
27 - San Diego
28 - Oklahoma St.
29 - Kansas St.
30 - Kansas

Georgia Tech 7 -10, Virginia 6-11

2009-04-13T07:43:00.000-07:00

Georgia Tech vs. Virginia

Suspended because of bad weather, nearly 19 hours, Georgia Tech’s Tony Plagman hit a walk-off single off Matt Packer in the ninth inning to beat Virginia.

The Cavaliers split two games with Georgia Tech – Packer gave up three runs, six hits and a walk in 1 1/3 innings.

Phil Gosselin was 3 for 5 with two triples for the #11 and John Hicks went 3 for 5 with two runs scored.

Jarret Parker (Virginia) hit a home run, scored a career-high four runs and stole two bases.

The Cavaliers trailed by five entering the ninth, but rallied with six runs for the WIN.

Naismith Men’s Coach of the Year

2009-04-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

Naismith Men’s Coach of the Year is …..

University of Pittsburg head men’s basketball coach Jamie Dixon took top honors as Naismith Men’s Coach of the Year!

Jamie, a six-year head coach, is responsible for the school's first No. 1 ranking in the AP Top 25. The Pittsburg Panthers have won 20 or more games for the eighth straight year!

Atlanta Tipoff Club presented the award on Tuesday. Other finalists were Oklahoma's Jeff Capel, LSU's Trent Johnson and Kansas' Bill Self.

The Masters – Florida State Drew Kittleson makes golf history

2009-04-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

Florida State has a potential WINNER on their team. Drew Kittleson, a sophomore, finished second in the 2008 U.S. Amateur Tournament at Pinehurst and earned a spot at the Masters and the 2009 U.S. Open. Congratulations Drew!

The Master’s is golf's premier tournament held at Bobby Jones' Augusta National Golf Club. A tournament that millions of golfers dream of participating in, and winning. But for this sophomore at Florida State, it is more than a dream, it’s a reality.

Drew Kittleson, a Scottsdale, Arizona native, is making his first Master’s appearance in his second year with one of the college golf’s most successful programs.

From the Master’s to the 2009 U.S. Open June 15-21 at Bethpage State Park (Black Course) in Farmingdale, NY, Drew is making history for Florida State.

Per www.ncaa.com …
"It's really a dream come true," Kittleson said. "It's something you work for as a golfer and it's the highest level, so it's something I'm really looking forward to."

NFL DRAFT - 15 Days and counting …

2009-04-08T13:47:00.000-07:00

Arizona State Sun Devils Ties Home Run Record In Win

2009-04-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Arizona State Sun Devils Ties Home Run Record In Win

Fifth-ranked ASU softball team made NCAA history! A great accomplishment – only two teams in history have hit 10 homeruns in a game – the last was BYU vs. Utah Valley State last year.

They tied the all-time record for team home runs in a game - they beat UNLV 20-10 in six innings.

And that was only the first game. The second game … ASU hit five more as they defeated the Rebels in a quick five innings, 15-2 with help from Hillary Bach. The wins put the Sun Devils record at 34-7 on the season as UNLV falls to 23-13 overall.

Kaylyn Castillo, Christina Zambrana, Krista Donnenwirth, Mandy Urfer and Katelyn Boyd led the charge to victory.

And the WINNER is UNC !!!

2009-04-07T10:13:00.001-07:00

The North Carolina Tar Heels took the court with WINNING on their mind. And they DID. UNC Triumphed Over Michigan State! Were they your choice?

Per Pat Forde from www.ESPN.com:

"Ty Lawson (21 points) and Tyler Hansbrough (18 points) shredded the Michigan State defense repeatedly on Monday night."

And Roy Williams ...

"It was one of the hardest years I've ever had in coaching," Roy Williams said after his Tar Heels throttled Michigan State 89-72, the largest title-game margin in 17 years.

Winning this title was a challenge for both Roy Williams and Tyler Hansbrough. "Nothing beats this feeling right here," Hansbrough said with one of the nets around his neck.

It was the perfect night for the Tar Heels! They won another title -- the program's fifth!!!

Men's Basketball FINAL TWO Breakdown

2009-04-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

The Men’s Basketball FINAL TWO Breakdown - March Madness
Connecticut Huskies vs. Michigan State Spartans
North Carolina Tar Heels vs. Villanova Wildcats

And now it is down to two - Michigan State Spartans vs. North Carolina Tar Heels.

Who will walk away with the coveted title 2009 NCAA National Champions?

72,000+ fans will pack Ford Field to watch the magic unfold tonight. Will you be there?

Michigan State Spartans - On the upside, Tom Izzo team is rebounding and the Spartans average nearly ten more rebounds a game than their opponent. On the downside, Michigan State needs someone to step up and carry the scoring load – nobody averaged over 15 points a game this year.

North Carolina Tar Heels – On the upside, they can score! With Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson, Wayne Ellington and Danny Green, among others contributing, UNC can get scoring from just about anywhere. On the downside, this UNC team gives up a lot of points - over 72 points a game on the year.

Everybody has an opinion ... including Gregg Doyel, CBSSports.com National Columnist ...

Which player on Michigan State would start for North Carolina over the current UNC starter? Not Kalin Lucas over Ty Lawson. Not Walton over Wayne Ellington or Delvon Roe over Danny Green. Not anyone over Tyler Hansbrough. Only at power forward could a Spartan like Morgan or Goran Suton possibly, maybe, start over UNC junior Deon Thompson! These teams played four months ago in this very same building, as you might have heard, and North Carolina won by 35.

Two teams striving to take the title. What do you think are their greatest strengths and weaknesses? And more importantly, will YOUR team walk away the 2009 NCAA National Champions?

The Men’s Basketball FINAL Four Breakdown - March Madness

2009-04-06T10:29:00.000-07:00

The Men’s Basketball FINAL Four Breakdown - March Madness
Connecticut Huskies vs. Michigan State Spartans
North Carolina Tar Heels vs. Villanova Wildcats

Who will walk away with the coveted title of 2009 NCAA National Champions?

Connecticut Huskies – On the upside, Uconn has a formidable frontcourt including Hasheem Thabeet at 7 foot 3 along with Jeff Adrien and Stanley Robinson. On the downside, for the year, they are not a great free-throw shooting team.

Michigan State Spartans - On the upside, Tom Izzo team is rebounding and the Spartans average nearly ten more rebounds a game than their opponent. On the downside, Michigan State needs someone to step up and carry the scoring load – nobody averaged over 15 points a game this year.

North Carolina Tar Heels – On the upside, they can score! With Tyler Hansbrough, Ty Lawson, Wayne Ellington and Danny Green, among others contributing, UNC can get scoring from just about anywhere. On the downside, this UNC team gives up a lot of points - over 72 points a game on the year.

Villanova Wildcats: On the upside, Dante Cunningham has evolved into a star. The 6-foot-8 senior is averaging 17.8 points and 8.3 rebounds in the tournament and his size will be crucial for the Wildcats. On the downside, Villanova is not a tall team. Of its key contributors, only Shane Clark and Dante Cunningham are taller than six-foot-seven and Antonia Pena, is 6-foot-8.

Four teams striving to take the title. What do you think are their greatest strengths and weaknesses? And more importantly, will YOUR team walk away the 2009 National Champions?

Farewell to Lou Saban - Longtime College and NFL Head Coach

2009-03-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

Farewell to Lou Saban - Longtime College and NFL Head Coach

Football was his life. Lou will be remembered for two great
accomplishments: he coached O. J. Simpson in the NFL and ran the New York Yankees for George Steinbrenner during his career that spanned five decades. Lou died on Sunday at the age of 87.

Saban had an impressive resume: he played football at Indiana University and for the Cleveland Browns of the NFL before embarking on an unmatched head coaching career. His legacy will live on in the chronicles of history for the Boston Patriots and Buffalo Bills of the old American Football League and the NFL's Denver Broncos, along with college jobs at Miami, Army, Northwestern and Maryland.

March 27, 2009 - LSU Football Coaching Clinic

2009-03-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

March 27, 2009 - LSU Football Coaching Clinic

Despite damage to the indoor football facility at LSU, the scheduled Football Coaching Clinic will continue. According to Charles Baglio, one of the most successful high school football coaches in Louisiana over the last 20 years and Coordinator of Football Relations, the schedule will remain the same with a change in venue.

Instead of the indoor football facility at LSU, The clinic has been transferred to the Sheraton in downtown Baton Rouge. Registration starts at 8:30 in the atrium followed by the clinic at 9:30. John Chavis, LSU defensive coordinator, will make a presentation to the attendees. At 1:30, guest speaker Archie Manning will address the group. The clinic concludes on Saturday at 11 a.m. with an LSU football scrimmage in Tiger Stadium.

Who are your Spring Top 25 Football teams

2009-03-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Who are your Spring Top 25 Football teams?

Everyone has an opinion, even Dennis Dodd, CBSSports.com Senior Writer. From 1 – 25, these rakings have merit – teams and players that rose to the top to make an impact on the outcome.

(1) Florida, (2) Texas, (3) Oklahoma, (4) Alabama, (5) Virginia Tech, (6) USC, (7) Penn State, (8) Oregon, (9) Ohio State, (10) Oklahoma State, (11) Mississippi, (12) LSU, (13) Georgia Tech, (14) North Carolina, (15) Kansas, (16) Boise State, (17) Utah, (18) Cal, (19) TCU, (20) Oregon State, (21) Iowa, (22) Georgia, (23) Nebraska, (24) Florida State and (25) BYU.

Twenty-five schools offering the best of the best: Texas: Cory McCoy could be the next Heisman Trophy winner and Alabama- Julio Jones could become the most dominant receiver in SEC.

Do you agree with Dodd’s Spring Top 25? If not, who are your Spring Top 25?

A new low for Michigan

2008-11-15T16:06:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, the Michigan sank to a new low in losing its eight game of the season to Northwestern on a day who's weather was as ugly as their season has been so far. Yes, you read that right. Michigan lost to the Big Ten's doormat team. Near the end of the 4th quarter the stadium was almost empty. "It was tough to stay," coach Rich Rodriguez said. "It's our job to put a team out there that everybody is proud of." So far this season, Michigan has struggled to do just that. With the loss today, the Wolverines have lost eight games for the first time in their illustrious history. You can say what you want about the lack of talent on Michigan's roster but, in the weak Big Ten this year, they should be preforming better than this. Rich Rodriquez is one of the most overrated coaches in college sports. West Virginia was lucky to lose him to Michigan.

The Florida Gators showed that they a force to be reckoned with in the national title race as they pounded Steve Spurrier's No. 25-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks by a score of 56-6. Quarterback Tim Tebow ran for a touchdown and threw a touchdown pass, and then got to relax on the bench for the majority of the fourth quarter. One has to consider the Florida Gators as one of the best team in college football. At this points it is hard to think of any team can stop them from winning the national championship this year including Alabama and USC. And if Tim Tebow returns next year, they will have an incredible shot at repeating.

Longhorns Longshot - Texas Attempts to

2008-10-31T11:56:00.000-07:00

Texas Tech's Mike Leach should be feeling a bit proud of his team going into this weekend's game. But overconfident he is not.

Perhaps the biggest game for Tech in it's 84-season history, fans are already lining up around the stadium, pitching tents, and preparing for Saturday when they take on #1 ranked Texas.

With Leach's interesting passing offense has even caught the eye of Donald Trump.

But Leach has much to prove on the turf this weekend. A win would give the Raiders a bit of an edge in their schedule, especially in games against Oklahoma and OK State.

Getting the guys physically prepared, with players like Graham Harrell, completing 78 of 11o passed with 985 yards in 2 games alone is proof that the talent is there. But those stunning stats weren't enough for the Raiders and they'll need to step up even more this Saturday.

A win would be huge for the Raiders and devastating to the Longhorns. As first place has been a bump about every week this season, it won't be difficult for Texas to take a fall to #4 in the rankings. Ouch, indeed.

From ESPN's Tim Griffin:

"I hope we have enough depth," Tech defensive coordinator Ruffin McNeill said. "Texas does such a great job. Our kids aren't worried about who they are playing next. And they'll be ready to play."

Ole Miss Rebels vs. Alabama Crimson Tide

2008-10-11T07:21:00.000-07:00

The Ole Miss Rebels prepare for their home game against the Alabama Crimson Tide next week.

It should be an easy wash over the Rebels for the Crimson Tide. Ole Miss will put forth a good effort with senior leaders BenJarvus Green Ellis and Seth Adams. But neither are a match. But it's still no match for University of Alabama head football coach Nick Saban's Crimson Tide men.

Recently heralded for their performances, junior running back Glen Coffee earned his fourth offensive award of the season from the coaching staff after rushing for 218 yards with a 78-yard burst in the first quarter of their recent game.

Senior center Antoine Caldwell was also honored after leading the way for 282 yards on the ground. He had the key block on Coffee’s long TD run.

The Southeastern Conference announced that CBS will televise this run fest game to a national audience beginning at 2:30 p.m. (CDT) from Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday, October 18.

Alabama and Mississippi will be meeting for the 56th time with Alabama holding a 44-9-2 lead in the series that began in 1894. Alabama has won the last four meetings, including a 27-24 victory last year in Oxford. The two teams have met every year since 1992.

The Creeping Lion: Penn State Crawling up the Ranks

2008-10-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

Even with Paterno off the sidelines with a hip injury, the Nittany Lions were still able to clinch their win easily against Purdue.

Evan Royster ran for 141 yards, one touchdown, and tallied 53 yards on 4 catches in Penn State's (ranked #6) win.

Daryll Clark completed 18 out of 26 passes for 226 yards and ran for a score for Penn State (6-0, 2-0 Big Ten), which outgained Purdue 422 yards to 241.

Penn State ran out the clock to finish the game and Paterno earned his 378th career win.

Penn State receiver Derrick Williams said though the other coaches communicate well on the field, Paterno's presence is irreplaceable. "It was very difficult," he said. "With Joe there, you're always alert about what's going on." (complete story)

Sooners Soon on Top Again

2008-09-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

The Sooners are back on top after the first upset-filled weekend of the season shook the ranking tree hard.

Not far behind the Sooners, the Crimson Tide is rising, with a newly appointed No. 2 seating after a whomping 41-30 beating of Georgia. Georgia, after starting the season with a #1 ranking, was down 31 points at halftime to Alabama and simply never recovered.

USC, as time tradition continues, lost pitifully to Oregon State, just weeks after debunking Ohio State.

Two more top-5 teams fell this weekend. Florida was beaten in a push-out at home by Mississippi, 31-30.

Overall, 9 ranked teams lost, 6 of these to unranked teams. Ouch.

The upcoming week is going to be another wild ride, with a continued downward spiral for some debunked teams and a test of brute force for the teams climbing the polls back to their seats.

Is West Virginia getting the recognition they deserve?

2008-09-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

West Virginia coach, Bill Stewart, is bringing a throw-down season in his first year with the Mountaineers. He said WV would throw more this season, and he wasn't kidding.

The Mountaineers are setting career-high passes and completions in the first game alone. Pat White, the senior quarterback, threw 5 touchdown passes and set personal marks for attempts and completions.

With only two losses last year based on the fact that the Mountaineers weren't getting room to run the ball, Stewart is bringing a helluva statement in this season by saying that's not going to work this time to Villanova's attempts at cutting off running like Pittsburgh did in 2007.

White finished the game with 25 for 33, giving him a better prospective look from the NFL.

With all said and done, West Virginia had a tougher first round than most of the ranked teams playing "scrimmages." While other teams were getting first game jitters out, West Virginia was doing some harder hitting and better passing. Look for the Mountaineers to throw a few upsets this season.

Ohio State's Devastating Win

2008-09-02T06:56:00.000-07:00

A scrimmage against Youngstown State that should've ended with celebration ended in solemnity as Chris "Beanie" Wells, Ohio State's Heisman Trophy prospect, went down with a foot injury in the 3rd quarter.

The game itself was a blow-out, with a 43-0 final score. But the tension rides over all of Ohio State as it's threatened to lose its #2 position to #3 ranked Southern California in two weeks.

Southern California, meanwhile, mowed down UVA, leaving Al Groh, the head coach of the Cavaliers to say of the Trojans, that they may be the most physically fit team he has ever seen in his professional career.

Mark Sanchez, back 100%, is completely ready and preparing for the USC game. Peter Lalich, the Cavaliers quarterback said, "Their speed was pretty unbelievable the whole game. It's something they have across the board, at every position, and they really were able to use it to their advantage."

With Pete Carroll at the helm since 2001, the program has won 11 national championships and is maybe the best program in the country. Ohio State will be a useful indicator into the success Carroll will lead this year.

Southern Cal Trojans: Charlottesville Game will Prove Much

2008-08-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

Another well coached team, Pete Carroll will prove much in the first out this coming weekend in Charlottesville, VA. With 8 years at USC and a 76-14 record, Carroll knows that the first opening at UVA better show a lot and provide a release for first game jitters before the bigger game with Ohio State on September 13.

Quarterback Mark Sanchez needs to step up immediately and be able to make many big plays at key moments. With a great offensive line, the quarterback doesn't have to be a rainmaker playmaker, but he does need to avoid any turnovers or bad decisions at all costs.

"The players respond to him," Carroll said of Sanchez. "They know he's a terrific athlete, and they have confidence in him at this position."

"He doesn't have anything to prove to me, that he's unique or special or whatever. He just needs to go play the game the way we designed his position to play it." -- USC coach Pete Carroll, in the Orange County Register, on quarterback Mark Sanchez.

I look for the UVA game to be a blowout with the Trojans standing tall and mentally prepared for the game with Ohio State in 2 weeks, who is fighting for #2 spot.

Read more about USC:
http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaaf/teams/uub

The Dog Days of Summer: Georgia Ranked #1

2008-08-26T12:31:00.000-07:00

The dog days of summer are here, bringing in a howling vote of confidence for Georgia Bulldogs.

With Mark Richt on the sidelines of his 8th year standing in front of an amazing 72-18 record, it's easy to see why Georgia's holding down a firm #1 ranking going into the 2008 NCAA Football Season.

WR Michael Moore, the junior coming off of an unsatisfactory sophomore year will undoubtedly be geared up to rip through the green to stave off scoffs of last year's disappointing drops.

Knowshon Moreno will be missed, leaving a pair of cleats that Just Anderson won't be able to fill, but may be able to tie the laces up extra tight.

What does Coach Mark Richt think of the ranking?
"I told the players that this preseason hype could be a blessing or a curse. It's a curse if you think it gives you a sense of entitlement to where you think you don't have to prepare. It could be a blessing if you look at it as one of the greatest opportunities of your life and you put the work in to even be in position to have a chance." -- Coach Mark Richt on the national championship hype surrounding his team.

Find out what CBSSports.com is saying about Georgia.
http://www.sportsline.com/collegefootball/teams/page/GA

Top 2009 NCAA Football Recruiting Battles - #3

2008-06-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

#3 Georgia

Georgia is living up to its expectations of winning the SEC and competing for the national title this year by recruiting hard.

Two quarterbacks Aaron Murray from Tampa, Fla./Plant Senior and Zach Mettenberger from Watkinsville, Ga./Oconee County are outstanding.

RB Washaun Ealey from Twin City, Ga./Emanuel County Institute isn't well sought-after, but Georgia sees the potential in him that is greatly overlooked. Ealey's teammate Dexter Moody is a huge addition to any defense.

Chris Burnette from LaGrange, Ga./Troupe County Institute would add the depth and talent to the offensive line as one of the best guards in this class.

Top 2009 NCAA Football Recruiting Battles - #2

2008-06-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

#2. LSU

Winning the national title can always tip the scales in the weight for any recruiting class, and it holds true with LSU's committed Russell Shepard, in the new quarterback position. Arguably the best all-around athlete in ATH/QB, Shepard from Houston / Cy-Ridge can crush anyone's dreams when the ball is in his hands.

Janzen Jackson from Lake Cahrles, LA / Barbe, is a monster tackler in the cornerback position.

John Downs from Bastrop, Lousiana brings talent and speed, even though his height is subprime.

Top 2009 NCAA Football Recruiting Battles - #1

2008-06-18T07:59:00.000-07:00

Of course the first school to make the list is the University of Texas.

Mack Brown's Longhorn program is first up to be open for early recruiting. With league bests such as quarterback in Garrett Gilbert (Austin, Texas/Lake Travis). A great addition on the offensive line.

The physical talent of cornerback Marcus Davis (League City, Texas/Cleer Creek) cannot be ignored.

Underrated TE Barrett Matthews (Houston/North Shore) will be getting some limelight this pre-season.

A First in the Final Four

2008-04-01T10:03:00.001-07:00

All Four #1 Seeds have made their way to the Final Four in San Antonio, Texas. In doing so, history has been made as this is the first time all four #1's have made it.

North Carolina, Kansas, Memphis, and UCLA will be one of the most talented collections of teams to reach the Final Four in years. ESPN analyst, Dick Vitale, has all four of these powerhouses in his pre-season top 5. The combined record of these four teams is an amazing 143 wins and 9 losses.

It will be such an intriguing match up when the Tarheels face the Jayhawks. After all, Kansas still hasn't forgiven Roy Williams for leaving to coach at his alma mater. Tyler Hansborough and company have trailed for only four minutes 35 seconds out of 160 tournament minutes, but for the first time this Saturday, when facing Kansas, will have a hard time holding the lead over a team which can match them in athleticism.

n the other match up future NBA lottery pick Kevin Love and the Bruins will face future lottery pick Derrick Rose and the Tigers in what should be an entertaining, high-flying affair.

As for my picks, I have the Kansas Jayhawks vs. the UCLA Bruins for the title on Monday night. This is one Final Four that would be awesome to see in person.

Pitino - One of the Best

2008-03-31T11:09:00.000-07:00

Louisville's suffocating defense has Coach Rick Pitino one step away from a 6th trip to the Final Four.

Pitino, who has won 2 NCAA titles and has taken 3 different universities to the Final Four, has Louisville playing its best basketball of the season when it counts the most.

Pitino's signature pressure zone defense limited the high scoring Tennessee Volunteers to 34% shooting. Coach Pitino moved to 8-0 in the Regional Semi-Finals and secured a date with the top seeded North Carolina Tarheels on Saturday night.

On a side note, UCLA freshman Kevin Love, put on another show last night with a career high 29 points and 14 rebounds in leading the Bruins to an 88-78 win vs. Western Kentucky.

In my eyes, Love is the most advanced big man to hit the college basketball scene in a decade.

Welcome to the Sweet Sixteen

2008-03-24T12:44:00.000-07:00

North Carolina and Kansas look dominant. UCLA and Memphis survived, and Davidson, Western Kentucky and West Virginia are wearing magic slippers. These are just some of the stories of teams making it to the Sweet Sixteen.

Individually, Kevin Love of UCLA is as advanced for a big man as I've seen in many years. Not only is he a special talent, he's simply fun to watch. The 7-foot Lopez twins from Stanford are also very talented and play with such passion. However, the biggest show stopper has been Stephan Currry, son of former NBA-er Dell Curry, as he has skillfully scored 70 points in carrying Davidson to Detroit, host of the MidWest Regional.

Whether you're cheering for a number one seed or a Cinderella, every basketball fan has to be enjoying this. UCLA Bruins coach Ben Howland says it best. "That's why this is the greatest sporting event in all of American sports, because anybody can beat anybody."

Congratulations, Belmont.

2008-03-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

In the first round of the men's NCAA tournament, tiny Belmont's enrollment of 4700, almost pulled off a miracle. Losing by 1 point, 70-71 to the "powerhouse" Duke. The Bruins really did themselves proud.

Personally, the first day went very well for me, as I correctly picked 15 of 16 games. The one mistake was the UNLV Runnin' Rebels win over Kent State.

I think that the Friday games will be more competitve and that a couple will most likely come down to last second shots.

Isn't that what makes this tournament so special? Like when last night's 40 foot shot at the buzzer bounced off the rim and mighty Duke survived to play another day.

I've coached in 89 of these games now," Mike Krzyzewski said of his long and storied NCAA road.
"I told the guys as far as game pressure goes, this game has to rank in the top 3 or 4. Hopefully the people at Belmont take that as a real compliment."

Congratulations to Belmont in their outstanding performance on a national stage.

Cinderella: Does the slipper fit?

2008-03-19T14:04:00.000-07:00

Teams that are seeded at a #5 or lower with a shot at making the Sweet Sixteen.

Notre Dame: The Fighting Irish's inside-outside combination of Luke Harangody and Kyle McAlarney, are a dangerous duo to make it to Charlotte in the East regional.

Southern Cal: The Trojans Freshman, O.J. Mayo, and company will run their way to Detroit in the Midwest Regional.

West Virginia: Joe Alexander and the Mountaineers have a shot to make it to Phoenix in the West Regional. Alexander averaged over 25 points in his last 6 games.

All three of these teams have the talent to reach the Sweet 16. However, that's as far as any of them are going to go. Because midnight will then strike and Cinderella will then have to leave the dance with or without her shoes.

March Madness: My Final Four Predictions

2008-03-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm going to give my predictions for who I feel will make it to the Final Four in San Antonio. In the East Rigional, North Carolina will have little trouble advancing. In the South Regional, Memphis vs. Texas will be an intriguing match-up if it develops, but I give the edge to Texas playing so close to home.

In the Midwest, Kansas has too much natural athletic talent to be knocked off by anyone else in that region. And in the West, UCLA is everyone's favorite; I almost agree with that but feel the Duke Blue Devils will pull off the upset.

So there you have it. This year's Final Four will have the Tarheels from Carolina, the Jayhawks from Kansas, the Longhorns from Texas, and the Blue Devils from Duke.

Go Mountaineers!

2008-03-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

One of the country's best players and also best kept secrets, was on display yesterday. On the grand stage of Madison Square Garden, Joe Alexander and his West Virginia teammates, knocked out the 15th rated Connecticut Huskies in the Big East tournament.

Coming into the tournament, the Huskies were one of the hottest teams in the country. But Alexander put on a performance the kind of which legends are made. Scoring 34 points in a variety of ways from high flying dunks to slashing drives, his most impressive was the beautiful turn-around jumpers which were silky smooth.

Retired coach and current ESPN analyst Bob Knight said "in the last three weeks, Alexander has been the most valuable player to his team in the entire country."

Congratulations, Joe Alexander and West Virginia. Go Mountaineers!

My Favorite Time of Year

2008-03-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite times of the year is almost here.

For anyone who enjoys sports, college basketball in March is an awesome time. Whether you are cheering for your favorite team or for a Cinderella team, college basketball at this time of the year is everything that sports is supposed to be about.

Here is my prediction for the four number one seeds in March Madness 2008.

1. North Carolina Tarheels (boo)
2. Memphis Tigers
3. Kansas Jayhawks
4. UCLA Bruins

The two teams with an outside shot at squeezing into a number one seed are the Tennessee Volunteers and the Duke Blue Devils. Right now, it's being argued that Tennessee deserves Kansas' seed. But Kansas has played a tougher schedule and rightly deserve the spot. If Duke is able to beat Carolina in the ACC tournament, I don't think it will knock Carolina from being the number 1 seed, but I do believe it will give Duke enough ammunition to obtain one of the other number 1 seeds.

The Tarheels look to be the most talented team in the country right now. Memphis, with their athleticism and their up-tempo style has been too much for teams to handle this year. And it's a foregone conclusion with the season that UCLA has put together that they will be the number one seed in the West bracket.

So, Basketball Fans, get ready because spring is almost here. Let the madness begin.

State Championship Coach Kenny
(and all-around great guy)

Sweeping out Cameron

2008-03-07T06:56:00.000-08:00

What an outstanding job schedule makers did in setting up the showdown at Cameron tomorrow night. Number 1 North Carolina vs. #5 Duke. Not only is the winner going to claim the ACC championship, but also a # 1 Seed in the Field of 64.

Some say there is no way that Duke can shoot the 3-ball as well as they did in Chapel Hill. Others say that with the Tarheels point guard, Lawson, back on the court from his ankle injury, that North Carolina is a lock to win this time.

I say that Duke will make it a clean sweep and that everyone who supports baby blue will have to swallow their pride.

Coach K who is the best in the business will collect win #802 as he has his team poised for a run to the Final Four.

2008-03-06T08:49:00.000-08:00

There's only one thing preventing North Carolina from possibly having a perfect road record, a Saturday showdown for the ACC regular-season championship at No. 6 Duke.

The Tar Heels are 12-0 on the road, but the Blue Devils are 15-0 at home. North Carolina has won two straight in Durham and will make history if it can extend that streak.

This will be the Tar Heels' fifth undefeated road record in school history and the first since 1983-84. They have never finished 8-0 on the road in ACC play since the league schedule expanded to 16 games in 1991-92.

Duke will have their go at North Carolina, tumbling them from their Number 1 spot and breaking their beautiful record.

Bruins Brewha-ha

2008-02-29T14:19:00.002-08:00

The UCLA Bruins took another step to a #1 seed come tournament time with an impressive win on the road over Arizona State last night.

While the Bruins offense remains solid, it is their defense that will carry them in their run to the Final Four.

Freshman Kevin Love, with his 17th double-double of the season and company, are the best in the West.

Tennesee's Tears

2008-02-27T13:38:00.000-08:00

Tennesee’s ride to the top of men’s basketball for the first time in their history will be short-lived as they drop in the polls because of their loss to Vanderbilt.

Look for North Carolina to assume the number one spot next week which they’ll hold until they visit Duke on the 8th of March. The Blue Devils will then knock off Carolina for the second time this season.

Even if point guard Lawson is able to return for Carolina, they will not be able to overcome the mystique of Cameron .

Somebody hand Tennessee a kleenex.