Is Kidd the Greatest Point Guard Ever?

New York Knicks Jason Kidd has been a top point guard in the NBA since he first fell on the scene in 1994 out of University of California. Becoming Rookie of the Year with Grant Hill was a given. Many saw his potential and upside while he played in college. As a freshman he earned many accolades such as National Freshman of the Year and First Team All-American honors.

When you think of a pure point guard, you think of Jason Kidd. I know he wasn’t the flashiest when it came to his offensive abilities, but if you were looking for a floor general that made his team better he was it. Kidd had his ups and downs throughout his career when he was arrested for domestic violence against his ex-wife while playing for the Phoenix Suns and as we seen earlier this month to his DUI in the South Hamptons. Kidd isn’t a squeaky clean person, but he has done his job on the court with over 100 triple doubles and is currently second behind John Stockton in career assists.

Kidd’s best days are behind him, but where does he rank amongst the great point guards? Some might say top 5 or number 2. It all depends on who you ask, but what I can say is that every team that he played on he made them better instantly. How can we forget his championship runs with the formerly New Jersey Nets? He took them to the dance two years in a row from 02’-03’. What an accomplishment for a point guard.

Some might say back then he is great but he can’t get his team over the hump and you know what that is a bunch of crap. Kidd gave it his all through those playoff runs, but he just couldn’t get past the dynamic duo of Kobe & Shaq and then the San Antonio Spurs. Kidd finally won his first title with the Dallas Mavericks in 2011, defeating the Miami Heat in 6 games. Kidd overall statistics speak for themselves. Before his production decline in the previous seasons due to age he averaged over 9 assists per game, 6 rebounds and 2 steals per game through his entire career. This man is 39 you guys!

A great defender in his prime and a great passer; I just don’t see that kind of point guard play anymore. Maybe Chris Paul, but he isn’t a great rebounding guard as Kidd was but a great floor general. Besides that the league is missing great guards that did it all. Hopefully Kidd still has some left in the tank to give the Knicks some quality minutes and leadership that they have been missing for over a decade.

Let the Games Begin

Yesterday was the official day of the 2012 Olympics in London. Many athletes, actors and entertainers from around the world came in to see the games and they definitely got their money’s worth. With many games that were displayed yesterday you can tell that we are in for a competitive and entertaining Olympics this year. With Soccer, Track & Field, Swimming, Basketball, Tennis, Gymnastics and many others this will be one to remember. Michael Phelps just barely getting into the finals, he will try to gather another gold medal under his belt.

I want everyone to support this year’s Olympics by watching it on NBC. Let’s show the world that American sports can win the gold. Of course we will have many obstacles and competitions to get past, but I think we can do it. Roger Federer is making the Olympics a highly televised showing after his win in the Wimbledon. I can say guys that I’m already enjoying these games and the more I get older and understand sports on a much higher level; I can definitely appreciate what these athletes do for us. Much respect to all that are representing the United States. Let’s bring the gold home.

The Curse is Coming Back to Life

A curse that haunted the Boston Red Sox for 86 years started in 1918 (The Atlantic, 2011). It was called “The Bambino” curse. The reason why was because once the owner sold Babe Ruth’s contract to the New York Yankees, the Red Sox weren’t the same. They were the only baseball team to win 5 championships at that time. When Ruth went to the Yankees he made them a legendary and glorified team. The Red Sox broke their curse and won a World Series in 2004 and then in 2007. Since then they haven’t got the job done. Is the curse coming back to haunt them?

This 2012 Red Sox team is just a disgrace to the city of Boston. In my opinion ever since Manny Ramirez signed with the LA Dodgers, the team went downhill. The collapse last season was one to remember. They even had the nerve to fire ex-manager Terry Francona because of their short-comings. I know that the manager always takes the blame, but how can you fire a manager that wins not one, but two World Series in his 8 years as manager. I’m just disgusted with this organization. This has nothing with me being a New York Yankees fan. At the end of the day I’m a baseball fan. I want to see teams be successful.

I guess the fried chicken and beer in the locker room was a huge distraction that made this slip out the playoffs; please! They just weren’t any good. I give much respect to “Big Poppy” David Ortiz for still playing at a high level. Even though many thought he was washed up and done. Josh Beckett just can’t stop getting in his own way. Once a stud pitcher, now just a has-been; sad but true people. This team will be even lucky if they make the playoffs. The Yankees have that division on lock you’ll. The Red Sox aren’t even at .500. Can you guys sell me on this team because I’m not sold on them?

Speed & Quickness at it's Finest: Look out Eastern Conference

The Milwaukee Bucks Brandon Jennings and Monta Ellis is the new duo backcourt in the NBA. They have something to prove to the league that they are not just scorers, but they can take their team to the next level. Ellis was blamed for all the mistakes and shortcomings in Golden State, but now he has a fresh start with the Bucks. This was a great trade for the Bucks to send Andrew Bogut to the Warriors for Ellis this past winter.

Jennings is known as a player that is a prolific scorer, but has a bad rap as being a selfish player that doesn’t develop the players around him and Ellis can relate to that. I even had been hearing rumblings that this duo could be the next Marbury/Francis. They both have very similar playing styles and they are both undersized. I can see a correlation between the old Knicks players, but Ellis and Jennings are both younger than the Marbury/Francis experiment and the Bucks have no other options for scoring. So I think that these two will just do fine on the court together.

I really hope that the Bucks see what they have in Jennings, because he is a future talent in this league. This is the same player that scored 50 points in a game in his rookie season. The game just flows for him and at times seems so easy. He should be looking at a contract extension from the club this coming season. If they don’t re-sign him, this team will be in an even bigger hole since the Ray Allen and Glen Robinson days.

This city has been looking for a basketball savior to save this team and I think that they have it in Monta Ellis & Brandon Jennings. Look out Eastern Conference! This club will be competing for at least a 7^th seed in the playoffs. But we all know anything can happen in the playoffs once you’re in. Both players have a lot to bring to their team this year. They have great talent, speed and quickness. Be on the lookout guys for bad matchups, with many teams that won’t be able to contain the dynamic duo. Do you think that Ellis and Jennings can take this team to the playoffs in 2013?

The Verdict is in: Penn State Loses big

Today has been a major day in the sports world. First we had Jerry Sandusky locked up and facing life in prison, then Joe Paterno’s statue being taken down on the university campus and today the sanctions came down. So the verdict is in. Penn State University has lost $13 million for the next four years of their cut from the bowl games (BusinessInsider, 2012). Also they will not be eligible for any conference title games. This is a big deal guys. This is to show you that no school or program is bigger than the law.

Many administrators were trying to hide these heinous crimes for years and now it has caught up with the school. I do feel bad for the victims in this case, but I do feel sorrier for the Paterno family. The reason why is because Joe just passed away this year and he is name is being tarnished right in front of our very eyes. Don’t get me wrong people, Paterno has much to do with this scandal by not reporting these disgusting actions by Sandusky, but I don’t think he is this man that is coming out in the reports.

The school’s football program is losing a lot in the process and not just money. They are losing on the legacy of the program which was built by Paterno decades ago. Now the school’s college recruits are starting to disconnect themselves from the school and commit elsewhere and who can blame them? This is their futures on the line. Why commit to a sports program where you might not even get drafted in the NFL because you didn’t get showcased in the conference title games.

Believe me guys, this is far from over. There will be many more things coming out of the Penn State camp that will hurt them more. I think that the sports world is in a daze after witnessing the sanctions being handed down to the program. I’m just waiting for this to get behind us and we can move on and see another side of sports that can make us appreciate the positives of college football. Did you guys think that the sanctions handed down to Penn State University were fair?

The Talk of the Town

 

The New York Jets Santonio Holmes is really getting out of hand in this league with his childish behavior, arrogance and running off at the mouth. First he was shipped away from the Pittsburg Steelers where he won a championship and was the Super Bowl MVP for nothing but peanuts. They didn’t want him anymore. Where have you ever seen that at? This is a young guy people. Holmes just comes with too much baggage. The Steelers just told the Jets you can just have him. So the Jets knew what they were getting into when they brought him on board, but they didn’t know everything.

Holmes is a very young talented wide receiver and he is the best one on his team, but that doesn’t excuse his obvious bad behavior. If Holmes wasn’t guaranteed all that money he signed for last year, the Jets would be more than happy to happy to give him away but they are stuck with him. This is a player that complains when the ball isn’t thrown his way. I understand that he doesn’t have a great quarterback, but you still have to go out there every day and be professional about your business.

Holmes is the last person you want to see go on record and tell the New York media to support the Jets and not bash them. He is the same person that throws his own team under the bus and walked off the field to the bench last season. What a coward move and he is pathetic to me. He’s a bad teammate and a cancer to the locker room. I wouldn’t be surprised if he is even in this league for a very long time. Who would even want that kind of drama? Oh, I know. There is always a team out there that would take a chance on a bad seed. They might feel that they can change him. Now that would be funny and something to see.

I just don’t know how these guys on the team deal with a player of his class. Hear me out people, the New York Jets won’t win anything and I mean anything with this Holmes character. Do you guys like Holmes?

  

Big Payday = Torn Left Knee: History Repeats Itself

The highflying young phenom Blake Griffin just had surgery to repair a tear on his left knee that he injured in practice playing for the U.S. National Team. This was the opportunity that he was yearning for the whole season to play for the team and it was in the palm of his hands; but injuries do occur and mostly it is unexpected. Tonight I want to get into a couple of different things I want to talk about. Many thoughts have been running in my mind about this young talent. First, I want to congratulate him on signing a 5 year/$95 million extension to stay in L.A. Wasn’t this the poison pill that the Clippers had to swallow; not the Knicks? This might be a deal coming back to haunt them. Griffin is remembered for sitting out his rookie season with an injury of this kind. You already know if he had this injury before the deal was done, the Clippers wouldn’t either suggest an extension.

Blake has a lot to prove to me, the L.A. Clippers and basketball fans when he gets back on the court from this injury. To me he is just a dunking machine, and there isn’t anything wrong with that because I do enjoy watching him jump over opponents and make an embarrassment of them. I know that isn’t right, but I’m not wrong either people for that. Right? Griffin needs to develop more low post moves, DEFENSE and free throw shooting. He started to remind me so much of Shawn Kemp. Trust me many of us back in the day loved Kemp, but he was just remembered as a dunker. When your career is all said and done, players want to be remembered for more than that.

I just see Blake games will be predicated on dunks that it will catch up to him years down the line, where he won’t have that flying ability anymore and he has to develop a better game. Some players can’t adjust to that. One player that I give props to was Vince Carter. He is considered to me as the best dunker of all-time, but when he got older those knees started to give out. So later in his career he developed a lethal 3-point shot. I understand that Griffin won’t be shooting those kinds of jays, but something has to give because at times he looks discombobulated and lost on the court. Maybe it’s just me that sees that, but I’m not totally impressed in his game.

Let’s look at the bright side guys. If Griffin doesn’t pan out to be the superstar that we thought he would become, he would still at least have his KIA commercials with the deer. HAHA! Can’t knock the hustle Blake. We are rooting for you. So don’t let us down. Guys, how long do you think those knees are going to hold up for and how do you evaluate his game?  

Underappreciated & Underrated: Ichiro Suzuki

Seattle Mariners Ichiro Suzuki is a player with much pride and is dedicated to his craft. The man that is just called “Ichiro” is one of the most beloved sons of Japan. He is a Hall of Famer already in Japan, where he played professional in the 90’s. Coming up in 2001 with the Mariners, Ichiro didn’t disappoint. Becoming the first Japanese player ever to become the Rookie of the Year and AL MVP the same year. This was an amazing accomplishment for this unorthodox player.

Ichiro is a player that has his own style. It is something that we haven’t witnessed before. He is a 10-time All-Star in the league and his name doesn’t ring bells to many because of the market to which he plays in. With Alex Rodriguez and Ken Griffey Jr. leaving the Mariners, they were looking for the next superstar and it was Ichiro. At the age of 38 and past his prime, he isn’t looking back. Ichiro goal is to get that 3,000^th hit. Currently he has hit over 2,500 hits and was the fastest to get to that number.

I’ve been thinking about this story really hard in the past month of a person in sports that is a superstar that nobody really notices and that doesn’t get that much press. I guess Ichiro wouldn’t want it any other way. He is a quiet assassin in the M.L.B. When it is all said and done, he will go down as one of the greatest players that we ever witnessed. There are not that many outfielders in the history of the league that we can say were better than Ichiro. He wasn’t known for his power hitting, with low numbers of homers in his career, but this boy can get hits and run those bases. A legend that played in a small market has to get the respect that he deserves before he retires so he can be appreciated while he’s still playing.

I’ve watched many of his games in his career and I can tell you this boy is the real deal guys. I don’t think we are as sports fans will get to see this kind of special talent in baseball for a very long time. Mark my words on that one. Ichiro is an all-around player that can do it all. Everyone show him some love before his time expires on the field. Do you guys think that Ichiro is underappreciate and underrated?

The Only Competition is the 1992 Dream Team

The 2012 USA National Team is a squad that we haven’t seen since the 92’ Dream Team. In 2008 the talent was nearly the same, but the maturity of these current stars have blossomed and many of them are in their prime. I just don’t see a team beating the USA team in the Olympics. When you have Kevin Durant coming off the bench, you know you have a deep and solid team. The USA team we saw in 04’ is no more. Bronze is not acceptable and these stars will make sure they come home with a consecutive gold medal. The U.S. blew out the Dominican Republic team last week. It wasn’t even close and it was just an exhibition game.

I’m going to put this to bed now guys, the 1992 USA Dream Team is better than this 2012 squad. Not to take anything away from these young stars, but you had Jordan, Pippen, Magic and Bird; need I say more? Don’t get me wrong, I think that the 2012 team could compete with the Dream Team, but only just that. I understand Kobe and his comments. He had to say what he said. What was he going to say, that this team isn’t good enough? Bryant knows deep down this squad would get torched. I do think that many of these players on the current roster wouldn't make the 92' Dream Team. Just a thought people.

I think that the more the USA National Team plays more games the more dangerous they are going to be. Let’s watch and see. They haven’t even jelled as of yet. With more practices and wins under their belts and no telling what this National team will be. I just know for sure that they will be putting that gold around their necks when it is all said and done. I just want to sit back and enjoy this summer and appreciate that the NBA has gone global. Do you guys think this USA team the real deal and do you think they will get the gold?

Coming Soon: The Big 3

L.A. Clippers Chris Paul is considered the best point guard in the N.B.A.; for good reason. Since he came on the scene in 2005 from Wake Forrest, he turned the lowly New Orleans Hornets into a title contender while displaying his talents for the world to see. Now with the change in scenery, being traded to L.A. last year; now the team offered him an extension for another 3 years to stay with the team but he rejected. Some say that he did this because he would have more leverage when the season is over for a max deal, but I think it is the total opposite. His heart isn’t with the Clippers. He just wanted to have a change from the Hornets because he didn’t see them winning a title. I think CP3 will end up with the New York Knicks by either the trading deadline or the 2013 free agency.

For the past couple of seasons the whispers have been going around the league and the sports world of the New York Knicks putting together their own Big 3; which includes Paul, Stoudemire and Anthony. With the signing of Tyson Chandler last off-season it put the rumors to bed, but now they are back on. This would be a great addition for the Knicks as they try to attain their first N.B.A. title since 1973. That is a long time without going with a championship, but James Dolan is in a win now mode and he wants to get it done for the organization and shareholders.

I wouldn’t be surprised if this acquisition takes place. Paul was asked on ESPN radio this last week does he think about playing in New York and he said yes, but right now he is focusing on what he is trying to do with the Clippers (ESPN, 2012). That is expected for him to say when you are playing for an organization. You can’t say that you want to play for the other team. Paul would look really bad and be considered as not being loyal.

As Raymond Felton got acquired today in a trade from Portland, he can be a trading chip in acquiring CP3 this coming season with maybe J.R. Smith, cash and some future draft picks. I’m just sooooo glad the Knicks didn’t match the Toronto Raptors offer for “Missing Person” Landry Fields. But if we get Paul, just know people we are getting a special talent that we haven’t had in years with his speed, passing and scoring ability we can go far. I think Paul maybe a player that can take the Knicks to the promise land. Sorry Melo; still love you! Give me your input guys? I would love to hear it.

I'm Richhh! Finally I can Sleep

The New Orleans Saints Drew Brees finally gets the deal he has been wanting. Brees receives a 5 year/$100 million deal today. The brief holdout is finally over even before it started. This was a signing that had to get done because Brees has become the son in the city of New Orleans. The city has been dealing with for the past few months the bounty investigation and the ruling that Roger Goodell handed down to the players. Brees also came to the team in a nick of time when New Orleans faced the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. He was very involved in the community rebuilding the city.

This is a huge signing for a team that before Brees came on to the scene was the laughing stock of the league. They haven’t won anything in the past 30 years before Brees took them to the promise land. The city that is known as the “Who Dat Nation” has a quarterback that will keep giving it his all every game. I think that if the Saints weren’t so desperate to stay competitive they wouldn’t have signed Brees for that term and money. I promise you that because there wouldn’t have been a holdout in the first place. The reason is because first off he is 33 years old and he isn’t getting any younger. I understand that he is arguably the best quarterback right now in the N.F.L. and one of the greatest all-time, but he will be 38 years old when the deal is done. That is pretty damn old in football.

The most years the Saints should of signed Brees for is 4 years and that’s the most! Don’t beat me up people, I just felt that the term and the money he was looking for was maybe too much for this small market organization. I hope this isn’t another Peyton Manning situation when he’s older and gets a nearly career ending injury. I’m happy that he got his money, but I can see this deal coming back to bite them in the butt by the third year. I just don’t see the Saints winning another Super Bowl with this team they have constructed today. This isn’t a sexy team at all on paper and on the field. Drew Brees is the main attraction and he needs to stay healthy for this team to even be competitive. I can understand if you have a great team behind you then maybe you give him this deal. The Saints felt that they had no other option but to sign him.

I really do like Drew Brees as a player since he played in San Diego throwing bombs. He is a stud that was under the radar for years and then flourished at only 6’0 tall. But you are going to spend $100 million for a 33 year old player? I see sports today getting old anyway, so this doesn’t really surprise me. Can we say Jason Kidd and his 3 year deal at 39 years old. Just my thoughts and opinion on this signing; what are your thoughts and opinions on this signing?

It Wasn't My Fault

This is one of the most tragic stories that I have ever witnessed and wrote about in sports. Greg Oden a native of Buffalo, New York had a bright future ahead of him. A man with such girth and height at a young age, you just knew he was destined for greatness. Oden was the 2007 number one overall draft pick for the Portland Trailblazers. His career at this time is at a constant standstill because of his ailing knees. Through his 5 year career, Oden has played only 82 games. I think that when Oden came into the N.B.A. he didn’t see these injuries coming. Oden couldn’t help it and really feel for this man. I think he wanted and still wants to get back on the court, but if your body is saying no; it means no people.

When he was drafted I was like whoa, he is going to be the next dominant center in our time but he was dealt a different hand. Many fans, sports stations and magazines label Oden as a bust. My thing is how you can name someone a bust that never got the chance to play the game. A bust is someone that is healthy and they can’t get the job done like a Kwame Brown. We all know this man, “The Notorious Thief of the N.B.A.” that stole from the league legally throughout is disastrous career. Usually I don’t feel sorry for players because they are rich and spoiled, but in this situation how can you not? Everything in sports is a business, but after sports this man still has to have his health and be able to walk. Do I think that Oden will get past his injuries and finally play basketball? Hmm, I can’t call it, but I highly doubt it.

I think that Oden will retire after this coming season and walk away. Not just because of his injuries, but from the embarrassment of not panning out and the shame he faces. As I’m writing this I’m shaking my head because he was a player that I wanted to see what he had to offer the league and the sports world. Being 7 feet tall and a dominant force on defense is a great gift, but I guess the league wasn’t his true calling. I hope the best for Greg and want to see him overcome these obstacles and get back on the court, but your health comes first! Guys, tell me what you truly think about Greg Oden and all of these setbacks?

A Fierce Competitor Becomes one of the Greatest Players in Sports

Roger Federer won his 7^th Wimbledon title this week in great fashion defeating Andy Murray. This had put Federer in a class of his own people. Federer has won 17 Grand Slam Titles and he is only 30 years old. Many critics felt that he was past his prime and couldn’t win another Wimbledon title, but he definitely proved them wrong. I consider Federer not just one of the greatest tennis players, but arguably one of the greatest athletes in all sports. I know this is a big statement coming from me, but really sit back and think about this one. 17 titles guys; that is a whole lot of gold. Any of you that watch tennis you can see his is a class act and he puts a lot of hours in his craft.

Federer’s opponent wasn’t a walk in the park at all. Murray was giving Federer a lot of problems and at times I thought that he was going to beat him. Murray was showing his youth, skills and power to the crowd and Federer but in the end he couldn’t get it done. It took Federer about 30 months to win another Grand Slam, but he did it gracefully for the world to see. Federer is one of the guys that can beat you and you will still want to be his friend. He just seems so likeable as an athlete and fierce competitor.

Now he broke his dry spell and has one more Wimbledon title to win to past his idol Pete Sampras and I think he will do it. Reminds me a lot of Tiger Woods and Kobe Bryant; The Eye of the Tiger. I can tell you guys that Federer made me like Tennis again. For a while the sport was just being dominated by Rafael Nadal and I just wasn’t that interested, but Federer is back at the top where most thought he was out the race. Lastly, I think that Nadal will break those records that Federer holds because I think this boy is a stud of a player and he is younger. Watch out Roger! What did you guys think of the match this weekend?

Show me the Money - $104 Million That is

Sidney Crosby is what many call the Michael Jordan on ice skates. I can definitely see that for sure guys. He has been torching the N.H.L. since his come up in 2005 as the first overall draft pick. Crosby is only 24 years old and he has many awards that people would die for, such as League MVP, Stanley Cup Champion and 4-time All-Star. You guys already know I don’t really talk about hockey too much, but when I see talent and potential you know I’m on it.

Just wanted to show this young man some love and put him out there to people that don’t know about him. Crosby plays for the Pittsburg Penguins and just signed a lucrative N.H.L. contract extension for 12 years/$104 million. Many of you guys might be thinking “That Only Averages out to $8.5 Million a Year”. Hear me out; this is like signing a large contract in basketball. Hockey players don’t get the kind of money baseball, football and basketball players get. However, if you see a deal like this you already know it is a big deal. Being a New York Ranger fan I was like NOOOOO, they can’t extend him. Crosby has been giving us many problems and they seem to continue for the next decade to come.

One day guys check out one of his games and you will see why I’m doing a topic on him. He is the real deal and he’s a bad boy. Until next time!

The Rival Heat gets a Shooting Sniper

Free agent Ray Allen just signed a 3 year/$9million deal with the Miami Heat. Allen is one of the greatest shooters of our time. Allen will definitely be a first ballot Hall of Famer when he hangs up his jersey. I’ve been hearing and listening to many of you and the sports stations about if “Ray Allen is a Traitor for Leaving Boston”? Hmm, that is a great question guys. Hear this, even mediocre player Jarett Jack believes that Ray Allen is a taitor for signing with the Heat (USA Today, 2012). I believe that Allen is a free agent and can sign wherever he wants, but teaming up with the rival Heat isn’t the most popular thing that Allen could have done. Just a thought! There was talk that Allen didn’t get along with Rondo for the last years he played in Boston. I can really see this as a true story. I think Rondo let the fame get to his head. You can see it on the court when Rondo talks to his players and in the huddles; there is a disconnect. I think he is an unbelievable point guard in the N.B.A., but you can see a change in his attitude ever since the Big 3 got older.

Allen couldn’t take every year him being on the trading block or the last minute sweating on the trading deadline every Feburary. He just felt that the Celtics weren’t loyal to him, but what team is Ray? Look at Patrick Ewing; they oust him from the Knicks when he got old. Many players aren't shielded from the higher powers of management. This is not a good signing if you’re a New York Knicks fan I can tell you. He will be the Heat’s sniper in the corner hitting three pointers like no tomorrow. Allen will definitely get booed from many crowds around the league, but Boston will he hear it. I can tell you guys, Jesus Shuttlesworth has rubbed many sports fans the wrong way. Even when they lost Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Finals, he was all hugged up with the enemy. Good luck Ray Ray in Miami! What do you think about this story that lingers in Miami and the sports world about Allen taking his talents to South Beach?

The NFC East is Eli Manning!

New York Giants legend Amani Toomer started a controversy that will follow him and his career as an analyst for a long time. By doing this can be a good thing as well; it will give the N.F.L. a great jump start to the season. For one, football season is right around the corner and it gives the league some momentum. Toomer said on the radio yesterday on Michael Kay show that Tony Romo is a better quarterback then Eli Manning. You can see that Toomer went by the numbers and not the overall body of work. As they say numbers don’t lie; I agree, but in this case watching the game and understanding both players you can see who the better player is. I think that deep down Toomer knows that Eli is a better quarterback, but Toomer might be reflecting on the days that he played with Eli. There were times in Manning’s early career where he looked scared on the field and didn’t want any part of the defense that was coming to him, but times have changed. Eli is a much different player now. Manning can handle any defense that comes his way and handles the pressure like the champ he is.  

Eli has silenced all his critics and the speculation if he is a great quarterback in this league. The championships speak for themselves. Manning has done everything that his team asked of him and more. Romo is a really good quarterback and could be great if he wins in the playoffs. Romo has everything a quarterback could want; he can throw with power, run and great vision, but he lacks the clutch gene that many don’t have. So in all, Eli Manning is a better quarterback and the best in the NFC East. No questions asked! Let’s move on from this people. I wouldn’t look deep into Toomer’s controversial interview. Is it just me guys?

I'm Backkkk!

I want to give a big shout out to Serena Williams for winning her 5^th Wimbledon singles title against a strong opponent in Agnieszka Radwanska. I was watching this match this morning being on the edge of my seat. You guys didn’t think I like tennis, but actually I’m a big fan of the sport. The energy, stamina and agility that it takes to play; ah man, I have great respect for them. However, this is about Serena today and her 14^th major that she has won. At the age of 30, she is showing her fans and critics that she still has it. Many were saying that she was done and her great days were behind her. I never gave up hope in her. I just thought her injuries held her back in the last couple of years and her mental stage when she was losing. Now one of the greatest women’s tennis players is back.

There was a time in the match that I thought she was tired and facing anxiety. This final matchup was really about being mentally fit. Both of these ladies are fit and were moving great, but if you watched the match you can see in Radwanska’s face that she was frustrated when Serena was battling back. Williams had her game face on that didn’t go away and she would never let you see her sweat attitude. You have to love it! Great win for Serena and it’s good to see her back on top. Long time coming; Ladies and gents, do you think with this win today put Serena back on top where she belongs?

The Cream of the Crop - Top 10 Quarterbacks in the N.F.L.

With the 2012-2013 N.F.L. season around the corner, I wanted to start the conversation of the best quarterbacks of the league. So tonight I’m giving you my Top 10 Quarterbacks of the league today. Here it is guys! Tell me what you think and how would you arrange your top 10?

1. Aaron Rodgers - Green Bay Packers

2. Drew Breese - New Orleans Saints

3. Tom Brady – New England Patriots

4. Eli Manning – New York Giants

5. Matthew Stafford - Detroit Lions

6. Peyton Manning - Denver Broncos

7. Philip Rivers - San Diego Chargers

8. Tony Romo - Dallas Cowboys

9. Michael Vick – Philadelphia Eagles

10.Matt Ryan - Atlanta Falcons

Almost Doesn't Count N.Y.

The Knicks strike out again, but what’s new? They had their eyes set on Steve Nash and acquiring him from the Phoenix Suns, but no cigar. The Los Angeles Lakers got him last night in a sign-and-trade deal. This happened so fast that nobody seen it coming. I didn’t even know the Lakers were a player in the bidding war for Nash. Now he is getting a 3 year/$27 million deal to play alongside Kobe Bryant. Isn’t that lovely! I can’t even lie guys, I’m kind of glad that the Knicks didn’t get him. The reason why is because I didn’t want to give up our young talent Iman Shumpert. Even though he suffered a major injury in the Playoffs with a torn ACL, I didn’t want to give up on him. He is probably one of the best on-ball defenders in the N.B.A. today.

You can tell money and fame talks because Nash and the Lakers have been rivals for years. He was also on ESPN radio and said that he couldn't see himself wearing a Laker uniform. Look how a day can change a man. Kobe is going to go off this coming season and he will remind us why they call him the "Black Mamba".

Nash will do very good in L.A. and may get to the N.B.A. finals. This is a player that can change a team. I know when Stoudemire left Phoenix that team went downhill. Who did Nash have on his team? Oh yeah Channing Frye, an old Grant Hill and our favorite that many don’t even know Jared Dudley. Nash has made those boys filthy rich from his fancy passes. The New York Knicks has found a way not to get what they want for the most part. In 2010 we couldn’t even get LeBron James. We are known to overspend on players that don’t deserve these lucrative contracts.

I just don’t want to hear that we almost got Steve Nash. In the end, almost doesn’t count guys. We did get 39 year old Jason Kidd today. Please! Lastly, I really hope that the Knicks don't match the Rockets offer for $29 million for Lin. Just a thought. Until next time friends.

This is Do or Die for Chad Ochocinco

This coming N.F.L. season is going to be a make or break for Chad Ochocinco. Now that he is signed to the Miami Dolphins, this will give him a chance to show the league what they have been missing from him since his playing days in Cincinnati. Ochocinco is known for his on and off the field antics and reality shows. Now it’s time to buckle down and play football Chad. I know that he is up there in age at 34, but I think he has another standout season left in him. He may have a 900 to 1,000 receiving yards season. Ochocinco just needs to put his commitment in playing football without any outside interference.

Now here is where the fun begins people. Ochocinco doesn’t know if he wants to change his name back to Johnson because of his engagement to Evelyn Lozada. I can’t blame her for not wanting to put Ochocinco as her last name. She would want Johnson instead, so he is looking to change it back very soon. I thought this was just a publicity stunt when he had his name changed to Ochocinco. We were all wrong and surprised by this. This is when we saw his career go downhill. The focus wasn’t their anymore.

Ochocinco had a horrendous season with the New England Patriots last year. He looked out of place and sometimes scared to me. Ochocinco didn’t even understand the playbook. He was doomed from the beginning. Now with his new team, he needs to prove himself again and play hard. If he doesn’t, this will be it for him. No team after this would want his services and he will be forced into retirement. When his career is over I’m lost to if he will be a Hall of Famer or not. This story reminds us so much of his best friend Terrell Owens. I don’t think Ochocinco can even take himself seriously and that is a big problem. What do you guys think of Chad Ochocinco as a player right now?

The New York Linsanity Attack

I waited awhile to talk about Jeremy Lin and the chaos that the term “Linsanity” has brought to New York City. Lin has made a strong name for himself across the world in the few short months on the New York Knicks this season. Now Lin is a free agent and is weighing his options on where he will sign. He will be visiting the Houston Rockets to see what they are talking about; the team that cut him. Lin is considered to be a young star on the rise by many insiders. I wouldn’t go that far and put him on the star level, but I do think that he is a nice player and maybe could be an All-Star player in the future.

My thing with Lin is that he is a tough young player, but he is turnover prone and that is a big problem for me. Don’t give me the “He is Young” excuse. There are many young and even younger players then Lin and they weren’t averaging almost six turnovers a game. If Lin can lower his turnovers and get a better jump shot, the ceiling is unlimited for Lin. I agree with Floyd Mayweather Jr. when he said that the only reason why this is a story because he is Chinese player. I know this might have some of you in disbelief, but think about it people. If he were Caucasian, African American or Hispanic nobody would really care about this story or player. They would just say that "He is Having a Nice run".

Don’t get me wrong, this story is very good for sports as a whole and even life. Showing people that things can turn around for you when you least expect it. You just have to keep believing and working hard. I got that! I’m just not as sold on him as many are around the city and the world. Am I missing something guys?

I Can't Believe This - Cy Young Candidate?

I don’t even know where to start tonight guys. A.J. Burnett is a topic of discussion and I didn’t see him making any news. While I’m writing to you, I’m also shaking my head. This is a guy that the Yankees traded in the off-season to the Pittsburg Pirates to get him off their roster and out there clubhouse. Burnett was awful as a Yankee. He came up so little in many games; even though the fans stood behind him to see if he can turn it around. Just was an unfortunate for both parties. I didn’t know what happen to him after he signed the 5 year contract back in 2009. He just seemed out of place coming to the Bronx. His E.R.A. was at a high and confidence at a low. Burnett is considered one of the biggest flops and disappointments that the Yankees have ever signed as a free agent.

Now here comes the confusing part for many of us. Burnett is now a stud pitcher for the Pittsburg Pirates. I can’t believe my eyes. His record is now at 9-2 and is considered a Cy Young candidate in the NL. Where was he when the Yankees needed him? I can’t lie, I’m a bit upset at this because the New York Yankees paid him a lot of money and he just legally robbed them for every penny, but the remaining $13 million that the Pirates agreed to pay him. Did I mention as well that he was almost voted in as a 2012 NL All-Star? The only reason why he wasn’t voted in because he made a bad name for himself in New York and lost popularity that he use to have when he sign in 09’.

I’m noticing this with a lot in players that come to New York and fall short and are frightened of the bright lights. This is a great example of it. Burnett played horribly and now is turning around his career. I’m happy to see any player do well, but it’s something that rubs me the wrong way. He didn’t know his left foot from his right now Cy Young considerations? Wow! I guess he found his speed and knuckle ball. Just a thought people. What are you views on this? I would really love to hear it.

2012 N.B.A. Free Agency Preview - Where will They Land?

July 1^st is the start of N.B.A. free agency. With many players hoping to ink deals with their perspective teams or other organizations; Deron Williams will be leading the pack of free agents this year with the most attention and exposure. This has been a difficult time and decision for him. The two teams that he is considering are the Brooklyn Nets and his hometown Dallas Mavericks. Many believe that he will re-sign with the Nets, but may feel overwhelmed if he doesn’t get help there. D-Will is also feeling optimistic that he can bring other players to play in the new Barclays Center. He isn’t waiting for Dwight Howard to get there because that can be a long process in itself. Williams is one of the best point guards in the league that can change the organization for which he plays in. His quickness and pass first mentality makes him great. Wherever he signs will be the best for him and his family.

Our second prospect is 2-time MVP point guard Steve Nash. Many are wondering where he will land this summer and sign a lucrative contract. My prediction is that he will sign with Toronto Raptors. I know what you’re thinking people; why the Raptors, they suck? I know they are abysmal and they don’t look great, but this team can give him a 3 year/$36 million contract. Now that is a lot for a 38 year old aging player. I think that Nash still has some left in the tank, but the Raptors are desperate and may regret this contract. Toronto hasn’t been the same since the Vince Carter days. The Phoenix Suns only want to give him a two year deal. Nash wants more and who can blame him.

I want to talk about Joe Johnson of the Atlanta Hawks. In 2010 they signed Johnson to a 6 year/$119 million deal. This was a ridiculous contract to give him. Don’t get me wrong, he is a good player but I don’t think great. Sorry Joe! He will most likely be traded this off-season because of his bad contract and start somewhere fresh. The team that is very interested in his services is the Brooklyn Nets. The only question I ask them is how the hell they are going to trade for a player that is owed that much money and who will they give up? This is very funny because they don’t have many players signed to their roster. If they do get Johnson and re-sign Williams, the Nets are going to be a playoff team and someone to be reckoning with.

Lastly I want to talk the greatest shooter in N.B.A. history Ray Allen. I think that he will re-sign with the Boston Celtics for a two year deal. Why would you go to the enemy the Miami Heat? I just don’t see that happening, but I could be wrong too. I highly doubt it though. To the other free agents out there; good luck on getting that deal that you are looking for. What are your opinions people on this year’s free agency?