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FIVE QUICK NBA THOUGHTS 1. Will Lutz Jersey . JAMES JOHNSON (Raptors): Major test tonight versus the league-leading Grizzlies. Whod have thunk it? The Griz and the Raps are the top two teams in their respective conferences in their 20th seasons. Johnson will be missed big-time. Hes played exceptionally well for the Raptors. Sound defender and rebounder and his offensive game has been both consistent and effective during the first 10 games. Lots more pressure on other spots of the roster to pick up the slack in his absence. Good test upcoming starting tonight vs. Memphis and then the improving Bucks, at the Cavs, vs. Suns, at Atlanta and then its Dallas at home before heading out West. Four of the next six at home are all against good teams. Without Johnson, they will be severely tested on the boards and with perimeter defensive matchups. Time for others to rise to the challenge. 2. HARRISON BARNES (Warriors): Has started all the games so far for coach Steve Kerr and is paying huge dividends as he continues to make nice strides. Averaging 12 ppg and five rpg while shooting 54 per cent FG and 48 per cent on three pointers. I like what Im seeing from him. Calm, aggressive, knows and accepts his role and is becoming a nice complementary piece. Guards well and has the size at the three-spot to make it difficult for guys to get easy looks. This experiment has worked out well so far. 3. IMAN SHUMPERT (Knicks): Finally healthy again and in a season filled with disappointment in NYC this is one of the major positive developments for their club. Wonderful energy guy who plays with an angry chip on his shoulder. Terrific on the ball defender who uses his quickness to really pressure you. His offensive game is becoming quite efficient averaging 13 ppg while shooting 52 per cent and also 52 per cent from three-point range. On a team that looks dispirited and searching for answers, one of the true right spots. 4. RYAN ANDERSON (Pelicans): Very good article in this past weeks Sports Illustrated about the sad death by suicide of Andersons fiancee. Hes battled back from that and major injury and is starting to round into form again. Watched him last night against the Kings and he was terrific with 22 points and four rebounds. Hes a really good perimeter shooter who also has a knack for getting after it on the offensive glass. Plays very hard and you cant tell a book by its cover with him. Hes quite the competitor. His team is fun to watch and theyre no longer an easy mark in the Western Conference. Always loved his game when he was with the Nets and Magic and its good to see him back on the court playing close to his level. 5. KOBE BRYANT (Lakers): He was brilliant last night against the Hawks with 28 points on 10-for-18 shooting. Loved the efficiency and willingness to share the rock with teammates. Made huge clutch/dagger-type shots with defenders draped all over him before an excited crowd. It was nice to roll back the clock and witness him at his best. It will be difficult at his age and with the weak squad he has around him to sustain it night in and night out but last night was fun to see the future Hall of Famer bring it big time. Delvin Breaux Jersey . - The Baltimore Ravens have hired Steve Spagnuolo to be their secondary coach and assistant head coach. Cameron Jordan Jersey .C. -- Authorities say the brother of Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Roddy White has been shot and killed outside a South Carolina nightclub.DETROIT -- For the Detroit Tigers, a walk-off grand slam happens like clockwork. Once every 10 years, its time to hit another one. On the day the franchise honoured the 30th anniversary of the 1984 World Series team, Rajai Davis hit his third career grand slam with one out in the ninth, giving the Tigers a 5-4 victory over the Oakland As. "I cant even remember the last time I did that," said Davis, who had never hit a walk-off homer of any kind in the major leagues. "It must have been in my dreams, while I was sleeping." It was Detroits first game-ending grand slam in almost exactly a decade. Carlos Pena hit one against Arizona on June 27, 2004. Coincidentally, that was the weekend the Tigers honoured the 1984 teams 20th anniversary. The last one before Penas was also 10 years earlier, as Lou Whitaker, a member of the 1984 champs, hit one against Cleveland on June 21, 1994. Oakland closer Sean Doolittle (2-2) was given a three-run lead to work with in the ninth, but managed only one out. Nick Castellanos and Alex Avila started the inning with singles. Eugenio Suarez struck out, but Doolittle walked Austin Jackson -- just the second walk he has issued this season. Jackson fouled off three straight 2-2 pitches before taking a pair of fastballs inside. "That was a hell of a battle," Doolittle said. "You could really see him shorten up his swing with two strikes, and he did a real good job." Doolittle then missed with a curveball and hung another one over the middle of the plate. "I just hung ... it," he said. "I threw some good pitches, but I threw some bad ones, and the last one cost us the game." Davis didnt miss it, hitting the ball out down the left-field line. "That was amazing," he said. "Austin had a great at-bat, and then I got a pitch that was middle or middle-in. It didnt do much. I wasnt sure if I got enough -- I was just hoping the wind would blow it out." Oakland broke a 1-1 tie in the eighth, helped by a defensive mistake. Yoenis Cespedes led off with a routine grounder to shortstop, but Suarezs throw sailed well over Miguel Cabreras head at first. Brandon Moss followed wiith an RBI into the left-centre field gap, and Sanchez walked Donaldson. Rickey Jackson Jersey. Joba Chamberlain came in and allowed a single to Stephen Vogt, loading the bases. Jed Lowrie made it 4-1 with a two-run single to left, but Phil Coke replaced Chamberlain and got out of the inning. Nick Castellanos grabbed Alberto Callaspos grounder, stepped on third and threw to Ian Kinsler at second for a double play. Kinsler relayed the ball to first, hoping for a 5-4-3 triple play, but Callaspo beat the throw. Detroits rally took Anibal Sanchez off the hook; he now hasnt lost in his last 10 starts. Blaine Hardy (1-0) picked up his first career victory with a scoreless top of the ninth. Sanchez, who struck out his 1,000th career batter in the fourth, lost his shutout in the sixth on Lowries RBI single. Cabrera tied the game in the bottom of the inning, sending a 2-2 changeup into the Oakland bullpen beyond the left-centre field fence. Scott Kazmir left in the sixth, one pitch after appearing to grab at his hip. Dan Otero replaced him and kept the game tied through seven innings. "My calf just cramped up," Kazmir said. "I was OK until I tried to push off." NOTES: Alan Trammell, the 1984 World Series MVP, spoke on behalf of his team before the game. At that point, he was the only Tigers player since World War II to hit a game-ending grand slam with Detroit trailing by three runs. Davis, who stopped warming up to watch Trammells speech, became the second just over three hours later. ... Trammell and Whitaker received the two biggest ovations, and at the end of the ceremony, Whitaker took the mound with Trammell behind the plate. After a dramatic pause, both jogged to their familiar positions on either side of second base. Whitaker flipped to Trammell, who tagged second and threw to Dave Bergman at first for a ceremonial double play. ... Tigers DH Victor Martinez was a late scratch because of a sore side, and was replaced by J.D. Martinez. ... The Athletics have allowed three game-ending grand slams since World War II, with two coming against Detroit. In 1983, Lance Parrish hit one off Jeff Jones, who is now Detroits pitching coach. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

AKRON, Ohio -- Tiger Woods showed signs of a positive recovery Thursday at the Bridgestone Invitational. Jordan Mills Jersey . Not just from back surgery, but from making bogeys. Woods bounced back with birdies all three times that he made mistakes, opening with a 2-under 68 on a soft, gentle day for scoring at Firestone. It left him four shots behind Marc Leishman of Australia, and hopeful that this time he can build on a solid start. Woods opened with a 69 at the British Open two weeks ago, only to plunge down the leaderboard the rest of the week at Royal Liverpool. "I hit a lot of good shots," Woods said. "I dropped shots at three holes out there today (and) got it right back on the very next hole." For so many players, the opening round of this World Golf Championship felt like either a warmup or an audition for bigger events to follow. Ryan Moore was among three players at 65, a good start for someone looking for one big week to get him on the Ryder Cup team. Two more Ryder Cup hopefuls -- Patrick Reed and Francesco Molinari of Italy -- were among those another shot back. British Open champion Rory McIlroy, who next week will chase his second straight major, was among the leaders until not paying attention to packed sand in a bunker that sent him to a double bogey late in his round. He still wound up with a 69. Leishman has quietly gone about his work in reasonable form, with top 10s recently at Congressional and Royal Liverpool. He had the perfect formula for Firestone, a big golf course where good scores are available by keeping the ball in play. "I drove the ball well. It makes this course a lot easier when youre on the fairway," Leishman said. "Its pretty tough when youre playing from the rough. Then, I hit my irons really well and was rolling the ball awesome. So its a pretty good combination for a tough golf course like this, something I can hopefully keep going." Charl Schwartzel and Justin Rose joined Moore one shot out of the lead. Woods said only a mild breeze and soft conditions from overnight rain allowed for scoring, though he noted that no one went terribly low. The 64 by Leishman seemed like a good score, so maybe Woods was basing that on his own experience at a course where he has won eight times. Woods twice has shot his career-best 61 at Firestone, including last year on his way to a seven-shot victory. That he managed six birdies was a sign that he was making putts, even though two of his birdies were tap-ins. He still had a few wild moments, starting with a three-putt bogey from 10 feet on the opening hole. He hooked his drive so badly on the par-5 second hole that he worried it might not clear the lake on the adjacent third hole. It was far enough left to leave him a good angle with a 5-wood that he put on the green for a two-putt birdie. His only big mistake was a shot into the trees on the ninth hole. It took him two shots to get out, and from behind the green he couldnt get up-and-down and made double bogey. Just like two other bogeys in his round, he answered with a birdie with a shot into 6 feet on No. 10. "I feel like I made some progress," Woods said. "As I said, this is only my seventh round back. So its just going to take a little time. Im starting to get in the flow of things. If you look at my iron shots into the holes today, a majority of them were pin-high. So Im starting to get the feel back in my hands and get my trajectory under control." Woods missed three months following back surgery, and the six rounds he has played since returning have not been inspiring, except for that opening round at Hoylake. He needs more rounds like that to remind Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson he would be worth selecting, and to try to extend his season beyond the PGA Championship next week by moving up 90 spots in the FedEx Cup standings to qualify for the playoffs. Phil Mickelsons biggest struggle was with his health. He didnt arrive in Ohio until Wednesday night because of strep throat, and he opened with a 71. McIlroy appeared to pick up where he left off in England. He wasnt expecting a hangover from winning his third major and didnt experience one except for his mistake from the bunker on the eighth hole. "Theres still so much to play for," he said. "No. 1 spot is up for grabs. Trying to get myself as far up the FedEx Cup points as possible. I havent won a World Golf Championship before. Got another major coming up next week. It hasnt been that hard for me to refocus and get back to work." O. J. Simpson Jersey . Thaddeus Young scored seven of his 25 points in the fourth quarter, Evan Turner added 22 points, and the 76ers hung on for their first road win since Nov. 1, beating the depleted Los Angeles Lakers 111-104 on Sunday night. Jerry Hughes Jersey . The Los Angeles Clippers showed them just how ugly that life could be. Jared Dudley scored a season-high 21 points, Chris Paul added 16 points and 17 assists, and the Clippers jumped all over the Bulls in Roses absence for a 121-82 victory Sunday.Its the day before the NBAs trade deadline and TSNs Jack Armstrong offers his thoughts on Amir Johnsons return, Randy Wittmans influence on the Washington Wizards and what may be in store for Kyle Lowry and Rajon Rondo. 1. AMIR JOHNSON: Nice to see him back in the lineup Tuesday night in Washington DC. Played with great energy and purpose. Its amazing when a guy gets those few precious days to recover what it does to the bounce in their step and overall game/confidence. They need him big time in the final 29 games and the fact that he missed the two games prior to the All Star break due to injury could end up being a blessing for their team. When he and Terrence Ross are going good, this team can compete at a high level with anyone.              2. RANDY WITTMAN: I said it Tuesday night on the telecast and Ill say it again. A coach has to get run from a game to light a fire under his team - thats a joke. The ultimate motivation and leadership has to come from the players. More leadership is needed in that locker room. The Wizards have more than enough talent to not only be a playoff team, but a winning playoff team. Felt bad for Wittman. Coaches get the blame all the time. I get that - been there and done that - yet at some point to take that next step it truly has to be a conscious decision on the part of your core players that youre going to be a good team and not allow yourself to be outplayed at home.               3. RAJON RONDO: Love the hard bargain and market that GM Danny Ainge is trying to create for himm. Cordy Glenn Jersey. As he gets healthier, his play will improve significantly. On the other side, its pretty evident that Rondo will be playing for another team in the next few days - or at the very latest a year from now. He wants to play on a winner and it will take a little longer in Boston for that to happen. 4. KYLE LOWRY: Watch him in the third quarter last night? He was brilliant. How does a guy establish his value in a contract year? Play big when your team needs you the most. Believe me, GMs and scouts are watching and realize hes doing it on a winning team thats one of the pleasant surprises in the league and hes a big reason why. Whether its with the Raptors or somewhere else, it will all work out if he continues to play at this high level. The obvious concern is after he gets a significant contract will his level of play stay the same and/or improve to justify it or will it dip? Thats the toughest thing to gauge for decision-makers. These final regular season games and potential playoff games will help set the bar for him. So far, hes setting himself up very nicely. 5. JARRETT JACK: His name is involved in trade rumours and hed be a good pickup for a contender. His former team - the Warriors - really misses his clutch play and great leadership skills. Unfortunately, he hasnt been able to impact the climate in Cleveland as well as he did in Golden State. Hes more of a complimentary player and when hes in that position hes quite effective. Can play both guard spots and makes the good high percentage play. Will be interesting to see if he sticks around, considering the Cavs have won five in a row and are right back in the playoff race in the East. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

TBILISI -- Liam Underwood went three-for-four and Harry Jones went two-for-two on penalties as Canadas senior mens rugby team lost a close match to Georgia 19-15 on Saturday. Darryl Strawberry Jersey . Georgian fullback Merab Kvirikashvili kicked 14 points and winger Tedore Zibzibadze scored the lone try to seal the victory. The first half saw both teams exchange possession through turnovers, tactical kicking and errors. Underwood and Kvirikashvili exchanged penalties to keep the game close. The game would take a dramatic turn at the 36-minute mark. Off a set piece, Georgian flanker Viktor Kolelishvili threw a dangerous high tackle on flyhalf Underwood, which caused a multi-player skirmish between both sides. Kolelishvili and Canadian captain Ardron would each receive red cards, reducing both teams to 14 men for the remainder of the game. Canada also lost the services of Underwood after the tackle and hooker Ray Barkwill. Benoit Piffero, who plays for Blagnac Sporting Club in France, would replace Barkwill for his first cap for Canada and Blevins would replace Underwood. Jones would add three points off the boot from the original penalty, giving Canada a 12-9 lead heading into halftime. The second half, however, didnt go Canadas way. Zibzibadze touched down for a try in the left corner at the 51-minute mark for Georgia. The try, which would be the only score of the game, gave Georgia a 16-12 lead. Despite a number of line breaks from the backs, including two from Conor Trainor, Canada could not score. Georgia maintained possession through their scrummages and lineouts, and Canada couldnt break the home sides defence. Kvirikashvili added another penalty at the 61-minute mark to further the lead to 19-15 and seal the victory. Canada will now travel to Bucharest to face Romania on Nov. 16 before finishing 2013 in Lisbon against Portugal on Nov. 23. Lenny Dykstra Jersey . -- Novak Djokovic benefited from an erroneous call and claimed he didnt realize he had broken the rules. Mookie Wilson Jersey . Off-Season Game Plan looks at what the Blue Jackets may do to build upon last seasons success to return to the playoffs again next year.CHICAGO -- Chris Sale is a dominant power pitcher with the potential for a double-digit strikeout performance every time he takes the mound. But the Chicago White Sox ace said his focus against the San Diego Padres on Sunday was being economical. "The philosophy is on or out in three, so I was just trying to fill the zone with quality strikes and go from there," he said. Sale pitched a two-hitter, Paul Konerko homered and the White Sox posted 4-1 victory to avoid being swept. Sale (5-0) struck out nine, walked none and threw 100 pitches in the complete game performance that lasted just 2:08. He froze Everth Cabrera for a called strike three to end the game, and retired the final 14 batters. Sale has allowed just two earned runs in his last 25 innings spanning four starts, and has a 1.59 ERA overall. The lefty was on the disabled list in late April because of a strained muscle in his pitching arm. Because of that, Sale was on a pitch count -- the White Sox wouldnt say how many -- but he never was in danger of being removed because he was so efficient. "I think the rain-shortened start and then pitching on his regular turn, he was fresh," San Diego manager Bud Black said, referring to Sales last start on Tuesday when he went just three innings. "We havent seen him during the regular season, but you can see why this guys one of the best pitchers in the American League: deceptive delivery, good velocity, really good change, good breaking ball," he said. "He had it working today." Konerko also doubled and drove in three runs as the White Sox won for the eighth time in 13 games. The veteran slugger has been playing every day with rookie Jose Abreu on the disabled list, but that is scheduled to end Monday when Abreu is activated. "Im just trying to chip in," Konerko said. "Im here to have good days against left-handed pitching like that, and you try to do your best on the other days when you have to play like its been. Its been a bit of a whirlwind the past couple weeks getting back in there and playing, but its good to have it today with the way (Sale) pitched." EEric Stults (2-6) gave up four runs and five hits in six innings. Gary Carter Jersey. Sale sailed through the first four innings, retiring 12 straight batters to start the game. Konerko gave Chicago a 1-0 lead in the second when he hit a drive to the back of the left-field bullpen for his third homer of the season. Chase Headley led off the Padres fifth with his fifth homer. Tommy Medica followed with a single, but Sale quickly regrouped. He got Jedd Gyorko to ground into a double play and struck out Yonder Alonso to end the inning. "I dont think he missed any of that one," Sale said of Headleys homer. "It was a fastball left right there for him and you cant do that to him. Hes a big, strong guy and made me pay for it, obviously." It was a rare mistake. Through eight innings he had thrown just 84 pitches, making the decision to bring him out for the ninth that much easier for manager Robin Ventura. The White Sox regained the lead in the fifth on a solo homer by Tyler Flowers. They added two more in the sixth when Konerko doubled down the left-field line with two out, driving in Dayan Viciedo and Alexei Ramirez. That was plenty of offence for Sale. "He was fantastic today," Ventura said. "This was as efficient as he has been ever from watching him. He was pounding the strike zone and down in the zone, too." NOTES: Abreu (tendinitis left ankle) played in a simulated game for the second straight day and said he feels fine. He is set to play Mondays game against the Los Angeles Dodgers. "Sitting out has been difficult," Abreu said through a translator. "But you have to recognize there are things we dont control." No official move will be made until Monday, but Chicago is sending INF Marcus Semien to Triple-A Charlotte. ... Padres CF Cameron Maybin missed the game and is listed as day-to-day after leaving Saturdays game with a sore right calf. ... Director of scouting Doug Laumann said that the White Sox, who pick third in Thursdays amateur draft, "more than likely" would select a pitcher in the first round. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys ChinaCheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

DUNEDIN, Fla. Brian Cushing Jersey . -- Ricky Romero is headed back to the minors. One day after being shelled by the Detroit Tigers, the former Opening Day starter and fellow pitcher Marcus Stroman were sent to the Blue Jays minor league camp. Toronto manager John Gibbons said both pitchers needed more work. Gibbons tried to soften the blow for Romero, saying the 29-year-old left-hander had pitched well earlier in the spring and was moving in the right direction after two troubled seasons. "We really like what he did this camp," Gibbons told reporters Wednesday prior to a Grapefruit League game against the Philadelphia Phillies. "Just go down there and polish it up." Stroman, a 2012 first-round draft choice who pitched in Class-AA last season, managed just one out in Tuesdays 18-4 loss to the Detroit Tigers. The 22-year-old right-hander gave up seven runs on six hits. "He was kind of the odd man out," said Gibbons. "He had trouble throwing strikes (Tuesday). Hes got to do that." Romero, who is due to make US$7.75 million this season, walked five and threw two wild pitches in 2 2/3 innings. Unofficially he threw 57 pitches, 23 for strikes. Gibbons said Romero needs to do "whatever it takes" to throw strikes. He was an all-star in 2011 when he went 15-11 with a 2.92 earned-run average. In 2012, he slumped to 9-14 with a 5.77 ERA and things got worse in 2013, when he saw action in just four games in the majors with an 0-2 record and 11.05 ERA. He spent most of last season in the minors where he went 5-8 with 5.52 ERA. "Its a long road. You never know if a guys going to make it back from that or not," said Gibbons. "But he was starting to show the signs of it. (Tuesday) he wasnt as good and it just kind of reaffirmed, Hey start him down there, but hes moving in the right direction." Romero had been a feel-good story earlier in spring training. Gibbons called him "the big talk of camp" last week after giving up one run in seven innings for an ERA of 1.29 in three appearances. But Romero fell back to earth Tuesday in Lakeland. He gave up three runs on three hits with five walks, a hit batsman and two wild pitches. "Weve taken too many steps forward to dwell on this," Romero said philosophically afterwards. Somewhat bizarrely, he referred to a "weird weather day" in noting "the balls were a little slick and just kept coming out of my hand." It was a sunny 20-degree day at Joker Marchant Stadium. Romero has been positive this spring, making an effort to stay in the moment rather than labour in the past or worry about the future. A lot of people have been rooting for him to succeed, including his manager. "We feel for the guy," said Gibbons. "Its not just looking at results. As much work as the kids putting in, things like that -- the battles hes going through, mentally -- you root for him. You root for him extra hard. "But were encouraged. Were positive after this camp. He may look at it differently but we feel positive with what he accomplished this spring." Romero had left the clubhouse by the time the announcement was made. Gibbons said the pitcher was disappointed at the news. "And rightfully so. I cant blame him for that, but hopefully he feels good about how this spring went." Despite the positive signs, Gibbons said he always saw Romero as having an outside shot at making the team. "Personally I thought regardless of the camp he had, it would probably do him some good to start down in the minor leagues in real competition where things are different," he said. "Just to make sure hes back to where he needs to be. "Because you dont want him to come up and if hes not ready to start the season, backslides and he may never regroup. So that was kind of my thinking. But that wasnt everybodys opinion. If he proved he was ready in spring training, he might have been the guy." NOTES -- Gibbons said closer Casey Janssen felt "great" after a throwing on the mound Tuesday and will go again Friday. Hes slated to make three or four appearances before the season starts March 31 in Tampa. Janssen has been limited in action to protect against shoulder soreness. Houston Texans Jerseys . The 23-year-old Poland international is back as first choice at Arsenal after losing his regular spot in the team on occasions over the last three seasons. Benardrick McKinney Jersey . Playing in his fourth major league game, Polanco broke a tie in the 13th inning with his first homer, helping Pittsburgh to an 8-6 victory over the Miami Marlins after the Pirates had a ninth-inning meltdown.This week, the Three Man Weave assesses Kyle Lowry’s invaluable play, dissects the top team in the league and looks at Andrew Wiggins, the NBA’s Rookie of the Month for November. Hosts of TSN 1050s 1-On-1 With Will & Duane, Will Strickland and Duane Watson are joined by Hoops Lounge co-host Sporting Phil Boileau from Montreal. In DeMar DeRozans absence, Kyle Lowry has put up big numbers. If DeRozan is out for an extended period and the Raptors continue to sustain, should he start to get MVP consideration? Strickland: In last weeks edition of #3MW, I pointed out that Kyle was already a top five MVP candidate. That stance is further affirmed by his play since DeMars injury, leading the Raps to a 2-1 record on their recent West Coast road swing and dropping a career high 39 points vs. Utah. Theres no indication that while DeRozan is shelved, Kyle Lowry and his team will lose sight of the three Fs: Focus, Fight and Finish. Will the rest of the league take notice? They should because The Bulldog is coming! Boileau: Should DeMar’s absence be of considerable time, and their winning percentage stay where it is, or even close, then this has to be had as a conversation. He will have to shoulder much more of the scoring and leadership role. His numbers may have to improve though, and shouldering such a load could make that happen. I say this because past winners not only vault their respective teams to impressive win totals, but themselves becomes league leaders (or close to) in various categories. Think of the last few MVP winners, then look at Lowry’s present numbers: 20 and 6 is not an MVP, no matter how many wins they get, just ask Tony Parker. Watson: Without question, he’s the proven leader of this ballclub and a deserved All-Star. If the team is successful, he should get recognition and consideration. The bigger question is: Will he? While the Raptors have made inroads, they still have ways to go to earn that respect. The Golden State Warriors have won 12 games in a row, are 17-2, tops in the league. What do they have to do this season to prove they are a contender? Strickland: What any good contending team should look to do is: try to stay relatively healthy, find consistency and stability on both ends of the court, in the locker room and off court as well. Winning is a habit that requires constant nurturing. The Warriors are top five in assists and offensive efficiency as well as tops in point differential and, surprisingly enough, defensive efficiency. The Splash Brothers continue to strike fear in hearts and opposing coaches game plans, Steve Kerr is looking like the leading early candidate for Coach of The Year and everyones happy in The Bay right now. The pop quizzes, at least in the regular season, will come against every team in the state of Texas and when their in-state rival, the Los Angeles Clippers, come knocking. The real tests begin in April. Lets see where they are then and if can they make the conference finals a realistic goal. Boileau: This has to be seen as a feel-good story, with roster players staying on, where they might have been shipped off for contractual reasons, and the impressive emergence of Coach of the Year candidate Steve Kerr. The factors that will have to keep going are: Health: This is a team seemingly made of glass, can they keep this current roster who is setting plus/minus records on the court for 82 games? Consistency: With your primary scorers being jump shooters, as weve seen in the past with “Big Dog” Glenn Robinson’s Milwaukee Bucks that also featured Ray Allen and Sam Cassel, we have to see if they can consistently win even if their shots arent falling, which seemed to be their downfall last year. Defence: We are seeing a great improvement this year, but it’s a mindset, not a fad. This has to be their focus even though their pace would dictate an onus on the scoring over protection. Andrew Bogut being healthy is the huge X factor here. Watson: Perhaps going 80-2 would silence the doubters. With the return of Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant, will the OKC Thunder make the playoffs now after an abysmal start? Strickland: As great as the current, reigning MVP Kevin Wayne Durant and Russell Westbrook are, asking them to go 45-19 to reach the 50 win threshold many believe will mark entry into the playoffs in the West is a tall task. Though not impossible, it is one that could leave Durant and Westbrook fully spent by mid-April. Failure to make the playoffs a season before The Slim Reaper becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2016 could have franchise shifting implications from the top down in Oklahoma City. Stay tuned! Boileau: OKC needs to win two-thirds of theirr remaining games it’s that simple. Zach Cunningham Jersey. Even then if enough of the right teams get hot, this could still not be enough. People speak to the emergence of teams that did NOT make the playoffs last year such as the Suns, Pelicans, and Kings, but let’s not forget, all of the other Western teams need to face these boys also. I wouldnt bet the farm on them making it, but should it be the case, and the San Antonio Spurs come out with another top seeding in the West, we could be looking at another classic No. 8-over-No. 1 upset, especially with how OKC has had their number in past years. Watson: That’s a tall, tall order. They have to play lights-out basketball in a better and deeper western conference and that’s barring injury to any of their other key players. If the Thunder were in the east, it’s a possibility, but in the west? True or false: The 2014-2015 NBA Champions will come out of the Southwest Division? Strickland: Plausible. A betting person could look at reigning champs San Antonio and feel relatively safe with their wager as they are a squad that knows what it takes to win when it counts most. But the division is a murderous one that houses a vastly improved Houston Rockets, who are playing very well even without Dwight Howard, a steady, cohesive unit in Memphis lead by Marc Gasol, Zach Randolph, Mike Conley and a wily veteran squad in Dallas that stretched the Spurs to seven games in the first round of the playoffs last year and look more dangerous this season with the return of Tyson Chandler, the electric, dynamic player that is Monta Ellis and the ever-present ninth-leading scorer in NBA history, Dirk Nowitzki. It could be that these teams end up cancelling one another out, opening the door for another potential champ. But... dont bet on it. Boileau: I would say true, and less because of how I truly believe in what they can send out, but more of how I think the rest won’t be ready to meet them. Memphis and San Antonio are two veteran teams who have great chemistry and are on top of their respective games. I can’t see anyone from the East making any notable noise THIS year, and the rest of the west would require either OKC to make a monumental leap in the win/loss department or The Clippers/Warriors to show that they can consistently win playoff games, which I’m not sold they can. Watson: Too early to tell. That’s where the current champions reside, but there’s a lot more basketball to be played, but chances are high that they will come out of the western conference. With Andrew Wiggins winning Western Conference Rookie of the Month what are your thoughts on his performance thus far? Strickland: This may be the most bittersweet offer of congratulations ever, so kudos to Andrew Christian Wiggins for taking this honor. But, its been won by default in essence, as none of the rookie class has truly distinguished themselves early in the season and he has no real challengers in the West...yet (Sorry, Kostas Papanikolaou). Wiggins has not taken full advantage of the opportunity to spread his wings more and take charge for the injury-riddled Timberwolves. His elite athleticism has allowed him to excel as a rookie on defense. When his technique, balance and understanding of nuances / tendencies meet his athletic prowess, fuggedaboutit! But his shooting has actually suffered, falling below 40 per cent for the season. Wiggins can only get better from here and hell have ample opportunity to do so in Minny. Boileau: His shooting stroke while streaky has been a thing of beauty, drawing rave reviews from announcers/writers around the Association. His willingness to attack larger players on the block and drive the lane is also a great sign, and more shots will fall as he learns the nuances of drawing fouls and player tendencies. His greatest stumbling blocks to me so far have been his ball handling (which I think is improving at a nice rate), but most importantly, his decision-making. You can tell that coach is telling him to shoot and be aggressive, and with their injury brigade, it makes sense, but you often see him forcing shots/situations. His ability to pass out of double teams and/or keep the dribble alive when trapped to me are his next steps towards stardom. Watson: He has done well so far and as expected he’s been afforded the minutes as the T-Wolves rebuild. His defence keeps him on the floor, but he has to shoot the ball better, or more importantly smarter. I’ve tempered my expectations of him since Kansas, but nice to see him beat out some rookies that were more “NBA ready.” Follow them on twitter: Will Strickland @WallStrizzle1, Duane Watson @duanewatson and Phil Boileau @SportingPhil Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

INGLEWOOD, Calif. Kyle Anderson Jersey . -- Although Juan Manuel Marquez rarely acts his age in the ring, the 40-year-old welterweight turned back the clock to a specific time and place while he battered Mike Alvarado. Under the spotlights, the smoke and the deafening cheers, Marquez was once again the king of the Forum ring, returning in grand style to the refurbished arena for one more celebration of his brilliance and longevity. Marquez won a clear unanimous decision over Alvarado on Saturday night, dominating in the Forums first boxing card in 13 years. "I wanted to give the public here a gift," the four-division champion said afterward while a pro-Marquez crowd roared its approval. "A gift that dignifies the history of this event and the history of the Forum. I wanted to make this fight a gift for the fans." Marquez (56-7-1) dismantled Alvarado with 12 rounds of technical brilliance and vicious power, knocking down Alvarado in the eighth round and bouncing back from his own ninth-round knockdown to finish strong, even staggering Alvarado right before the final bell. Judges Max DeLuca and Julie Lederman scored it 117-109 for Marquez, and Robert Byrd favoured him 119-108. The Associated Press also scored it 117-109 for Marquez, giving him 10 of the 12 rounds. Marquez improved to 13-0 at the Forum, the former featherweight prospects regular home during the late 1990s. Although he once lived in Anaheim, Marquez hadnt fought in California since his last Forum bout in 1999, and thousands of his local fans turned out to support arguably the greatest Mexican fighter of his generation. The win sets up Marquez for a fifth fight with Manny Pacquiao in the fall in Macau, if Marquez wants it. His knockout victory over Pacquiao in December 2012 was the crowning moment of his career, but the money might compel him to add a fifth chapter to their rivalry. "Well relax first," Marquez said. "I dont know at the moment, but any decision we make will be good for me, good for my family and good for the Mexican fans." Alvarado (34-3) never got rolling in his second straight defeat, struggling to land any major shots beyond the right that sent Marquez to the canvas. "It was a bad experience being in there with a legend," Alvarado said. "I was warming up a little bit too much before I started getting off. It was on me, but it was a great fight." Marquez, who made $1.4 million, showcased the roots of his success against Alvarado, whose apparent fear of Marquezs famed counterpunching left him waiting for Marquez to clobber him. Marquez outlanded Alvarado in 11 rounds, connecting with 44 per cent of his 627 punches. His power shots were even more devastating, landing 57 per cent to just 34 per cent for Alvarado. Marquez was in charge from the opening rounds. With Alvarado sitting back and waiting, Marquez pounded him to the body and pulped the left side of his face, opening a cut under his eye in the middle rounds. "Thats the kind of fighter I am. I like wars," Alvarado said. "Thats how he exploited me, but thats how I fight." Marquez knocked down Alvarado with a counter right hand in the final seconds of the eighth, sending Alvarado sliding under the ropes and nearly off the canvas into the photographers. Alvarado recovered after the bell, and he knocked down Marquez with a double right hand early in the ninth, stunning the crowd. But the shot only seemed to enrage Marquez, who landed big combinations for the rest of the round. Alvarados face was swollen with damage under both eyes in the final rounds. Alvarado wobbled Marquez again in the 11th round, but Marquez kept his feet and finished to a standing ovation. Marquez took a split-decision loss to Timothy Bradley last fall in his first fight since his victory over Pacquiao, but he was back on top in the heralded return of boxing to the Forum, the former home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Kings. The Forum was a boxing hotbed for 30 years, hosting Muhammad Alis second fight with Ken Norton along with dozens of fight nights promoted by the late Lakers owner Jerry Buss. "It was a very entertaining fight, and the thing that really thrills me is its a great fight to come back to the Forum with," Top Rank promoter Bob Arum said. "So many years ago, there were so many nights at the Forum when we had fights like this." Alvarado hadnt fought since Ruslan Provodnikov stopped him last fall. Alvarado moved away from his native Denver to the Los Angeles area in preparation for this bout, determined to avoid the pitfalls lurking in his hometown. Dejounte Murray Jersey . Austin Watson, Scott Ford, Filip Forsberg and Mark Van Guilder had the other goals for the Admirals (30-21-12). Scott Darling made 30 saves for his 10th win of the season. Kawhi Leonard Jersey . Braves reliever David Carpenter was also fined for throwing at Rockies outfielder Corey Dickerson in the same game, which featured several ejections, including Colorado manager Walt Weiss.Glendale, AZ (SportsNetwork.com) - Tom Brady and Russell Wilson each threw touchdown passes in the final minute of the second quarter as the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks went into halftime of Super Bowl XLIX tied at 14-14. Brady briefly gave New England a 14-7 lead with a 22-yard strike to Rob Gronkowski with 31 seconds remaining in the half, but the Seahawks swiftly answered by marching 80 yards in just five plays and drawing back even on Wilsons 11-yard connection with Chris Matthews with just two seconds on the clock. Making his record sixth Super Bowl start at quarterback, Brady shook off an early red-zone interception to throw for two touchdowns. His delivery to Gronkowski was his 11th in a Super Bowll, tying Joe Montanas record. Rudy Gay Jersey. Brady made good on 20-of-27 passes for 177 yards over the first two quarters. The Patriots grabbed a 7-0 edge on Bradys 11-yard touchdown toss to Brandon LaFell with 9:47 left in the second quarter, with the defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks knotting the score on Marshawn Lynchs 3-yard run with 2:16 to go before halftime. The Seahawks are attempting to become the first repeat champion since the Patriots won back-to-back titles in 2003 and 2004, while Wilson is bidding to be the only quarterback to win a Super Bowl in two of his first three seasons. Brady will join Montana and Terry Bradshaw as the lone signal-callers to win the game four times with a victory. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

MANCHESTER, England -- The Premier League trophy could be out of reach for Manchester City after a 2-2 home draw with last-placed Sunderland on Wednesday that capped a demoralizing four days for title chasers. Stephen Gostkowski Jersey . Samir Nasris 88th-minute equalizer at Etihad Stadium will be of little consolation to City, which is now six points behind league leader Liverpool and four points behind second-place Chelsea. Third-place City has a game in hand but the surprise result against Sunderland, coupled with Sundays 3-2 loss at Liverpool, may be a setback too far in its bid for a second championship in three seasons. "I think we are more mentally tired than physically tired," said City manager Manuel Pellegrini, who is still not giving up hope. "Remember this team, two years ago, were six points behind the leaders and ... won the title at the end. So it is difficult, but it is not the last game we play." Pressure also seems to have struck Evertons battle for the last Champions League spot with Arsenal. Everton became the latest team to slip up against Crystal Palace, losing 3-2 at home to end its seven-match winning run and miss the chance of reclaiming fourth place from Arsenal, which is one point ahead with four matches remaining. "We wanted to win so much that we stopped being ourselves," Everton manager Roberto Martinez said, "and that is what we have to learn from." Palaces fourth straight win means the side can surely start preparing for another season in the top flight and lends further weight to many pundits argument that Tony Pulis is the manager of the season. When Pulis took over in November, Palace was bottom and six points from safety -- now, it is 11th and 10 points above the relegation zone. Sunderland is six points from safety with a game in hand, but could have been a lot closer if goalkeeper Vito Mannone had gathered Nasris shot rather than fumbled it into the back of the net. That could be the difference between staying in the Premier League and being relegated. "Its one more blow," Sunderland manager Gus Poyet said. "I tell you what, Im testing my heart this year." Without the injured David Silva and Yaya Toure and with star striker Sergio Aguero lacking match sharpness, City lacked its usual creativity going forward and was sloppy in possession. Fernandinho gave City the lead in the second minute, running onto a short pass from Aguero that was dummied by Alvaro Negredo and scoring inside Mannones near post, but Sunderland had the better of the chances for the rest of the first half. Connor Wickham finally took one of them in the 73rd minute, volleying in a cross from substitute Emanuele Giaccherini, and the same players combined for Wickhams second that came on the counter-attack in the 83rd. City escaped with a point thanks to Nasri, but Liverpool and Chelsea will be celebrating another twist in the title race. "We believe we can win the title," Fernandinho said. "Chelsea and Liverpool have four games and they may drop some points -- we think we can still win the title." At Goodison Park, Jason Puncheon scored his fourth goal in three games before Scott Dann added a second for Palace for a 2-0 lead after 49 minutes. Substitute Steven Naismith reduced the deficit in the 61st before Palace restored their two-goal advantage through striker Cameron Jerome in the 73rd. Kevin Mirallas scored Evertons second goal in the 86th. Steve Grogan Jersey . Louis, MO (SportsNetwork. Eric Rowe Jersey . -- The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets will forever be tied together for making the same spectacular misjudgment on budding NBA sensation Jeremy Lin.Team USA and Predators general manager David Poile is expected to return to work in Nashville next week as he continues to recover from injuries suffered when he was hit by an errant puck at practice on Feb. 6. Poile suffered a fractured orbital bone and fractures in his nose when he was hit during Nashvilles morning skate in Minnesota nearly two weeks ago. He had two surgeries that afternoon and returned home to Nashville three days later. The team said on Tuesday that Poile had another eye-related procedure at Vanderbilt Medical Center last Friday. The injuries prevented him from attending the Sochi Olympics, but he has been in contact with Ray Shero and USA Hockey during the Games. &qquot;I know that I have a challenging road ahead, but am going to embrace the challenge and am eager to get back to work," Poile said in a statement. James Develin Jersey. "Thank you, in particular to the medical teams at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minn., and Vanderbilt Medical Center here in Nashville for the outstanding care and attention I have received and continue to receive. Thanks also to all those in Nashville and throughout the hockey community who have reached out to offer support and encouragement. It has been uplifting and most appreciated. Im looking forward to watching USAs quest for the Gold Medal in Sochi and the Predators resuming the playoff race." Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys ChinaCheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

It was rare, if not entirely non-existent, to find an interview baiting an athlete to this level, and Romes dinkishness would usher forth a fresh era of callous reporting, culminating in Jim Grays inappropriately timed grilling of Pete Rose at the MLB All Star game in 1999:The challenge in scrutinizing the Rome/Everett clip is the conspiracy that looms over it. Keenan Robinson Jersey . Long-standing doubts have been cast over the legitimacy of the participants intentions. Many have surmised that both Jim and Jim were in on the melee and the whole episode was rehearsed. If thats the case, it did no favours for either party, as Rome in particular struggled to book guests in the wake of the incident. Neither party has ever admitted to staging the fight, and the sentiments were likely real. Either way, Jim Rome was shoved viciously off a riser, so the clip has merit.#3 — Richard Sherman Dismantles Skip Bayless (2013)Even though the past decades increased brand-manicuring has brought forth ghost Twitter writers, interview coaches, and a heavy press release presence among athletes looking to make a statement, baiting and sparring between journalists and athletes continue. Before we get to the clip, lets refresh ourselves of Richard Sherman, the All Pro cornerback of the Seattle Seahawks, who is best known for another interview clip recorded just after this past seasons NFC Championship Game:Ooof, thats good stuff. The kind of interview that makes network executives request everyone stay late in the boardroom and order Chinese. But I fell in love with the good Mr. Sherman a year earlier, during his shredding of Skip "Not At The Top Of His Profession" Bayless:Skip Bayless got what he deserved. Was Sherman cocky, arrogant, quiver-lipped and mean? Sure. Hes an egotistical twenty-something millionaire football player who feels dissed. Skip is a self-serving foghorn and a comfort-of-the-news-desk trash talker who had been relentless in his dismissal of Shermans accomplishments (and this was before the Super Bowl ring). To the Sherman goes the Glory.#2 — The Practice, starring Allen Iverson (2002)Not every athlete takes the stage with a fall guy—sometimes they play that part themselves. Allen Iverson, not long after winning the NBA Most Valuable Player award in 2001, notoriously did not like pushing himself in practice. Or attending practice. Here, at the podium, he gets heat for consistently skipping team practices, and decides to see if saying one word so many times can truly make it lose its meaning.A.I., even in his day, was undervalued. He is the greatest six-foot tall (or under) scorer in league history, and despite a propensity to forget he had teammates, averaged over six assists per game and led a team to the NBA Finals. He was also a wildly unpredictable man, with a raft of legal, financial, character and assault issues in his past (and present). It will take a special kind of talent to trump his accomplishment.#1 — Ron Artest | A Special Kind Of Talent (2010)I do not want to leave you feeling this collection of interviews is entirely geared to the glorification of scrapping or defensiveness or self-aggrandizing. Some athletes, like NBA All Star Ron Artest, win a big game and want nothing more than to spread the love around:A year after this interview, an entirely calm and well-adjusted Ron Artest would change his name to Metta World Peace, surprising no one.This mesmerizingly odd interview represented a momentous turnaround for the once-villainous Artest. Many criticized the Lakers letting go of an emerging Trevor Ariza after winning the championship in 2009, and replacing him with then 30-year-old Ron Artest, who came with a Himalayan range of baggage.In case you arent aware of, or have forgotten Metta World Artests history, this is why the above video stands as a bizarrely dichotomous moment, though you will likely still discern the thread of crazy running through both videos:>>> Gallays Poll #10Which interview is your favourite?(A) Jim vs. Jim, for the shoving(B) Iverson, for the comfort of repetition(C) Sherman, for the righteousness(D) Artest, for the sobering candour Shane Vereen Jersey .com) - Robert Martin and Josh Hicks combined for more than 300 yards rushing and three touchdowns, as Rutgers rolled past North Carolina, 40-21, in the Quick Lane Bowl. John Jerry Jersey .Y. -- AJ Allmendingers journey is almost complete.INDIANAPOLIS -- The Colts have placed left guard Donald Thomas on injured reserve and waived fullback Dan Moore. Thomas tore a quad tendon in his right leg during the first quarter of Sundays 24-20 loss to Miami. Coach Chuck Pagano said Monday that Thomas would undergo season-ending surgery. He is expected to be replaced in Indys lineuup by rookie Hugh Thornton, a third-round draft pick. Michael Strahan Jersey. Moore signed with the Colts as an undrafted rookie in April after playing at Montana. He injured his shoulder early in training camp and was put on injured reserve after being waived Aug. 19 and clearing waivers. The Colts announced the moves on Tuesday. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

HALIFAX - Canadas Roger Sloan won the Nova Scotia Open on Sunday for first Web. Kyle Scott Jersey .com Tour title, holing a 5-foot par putt on the first hole of a playoff with Derek Fathauer. The 27-year-old Sloan, a former Texas-El Paso player from Merritt, B.C., played 37 holes Sunday after high wind from Tropical Storm Arthur wiped out third-round play Saturday. After the victory, the fans celebrated with a spontaneous rendition of "O Canada." "I love being a Canadian," Sloan said. "They just broke out in song. This means so much to win this here. I dont know which feels better — to win or to be done today. It was a long day." Sloan closed with rounds of 71 and 70 to match Fathauer at 11-under 273 on Ashburn Golf Clubs New Course. Fathauer had rounds of 71 and 66. Sloan earned $117,000 to jump from 80th to 12th on the money list with $149,303, putting him into position to earn a PGA Tour card as a top-25 finisher in the regular season. "Thats just icing on the cake," Sloan said. Sloan rebounded from a bogey on No. 12 with birdies on Nos. 13 and 14 and closed with four pars. "I had zero awareness of where I stood all day," Sloan said. "I asked my caddie on 18 where we stood and he told me that up-and-down would get me in a playoff." He holed a 4 1/2-footer on the par-4 18th to force the playoff. "That was ticklish putt," he said. "It went down a cliff." Fathauer bogeyed Nos. 16 and 18 in regulation, three-putting from 25 feet on the last hole. "I kind of fumbled things coming in," Fathauer said. Fathauers drive on No. 18 in the playoff found the trees to the right, while Sloan split the fairway. Fathauer clipped the trees on his second, leaving him 100 yards away, while Sloan hit to 40 feet. Fathauer missed his par attempt from 30 feet, and Sloan holed his par putt for the win. Sloan is the third Canadian to win a Web.com Tour event in Canada, following Richard Zokol in the 2001 Canadian PGA Championship and David Hearn in the 2004 Alberta Classic. John Mallinger shot 67-73 to finish third at 8 under. Tiemoue Bakayoko Jersey .J. -- Pitcher Carl Pavano is retiring after 14 major league seasons. David Luiz Jersey . -- The Oakland Raiders added a veteran presence to their young receiving group by signing free agent James Jones to a three-year contract Monday.WILLIAMSBURG, Va. -- Hee Young Park topped the leaderboard at 8 under Friday in the suspended second round of the Kingsmill Championship. The South Korean player, fighting a lingering wrist injury, shot a 3-under 68 to take a one-stroke lead over Stacy Lewis, Brittany Lang, Lexi Thompson, Azahara Munoz and Lizette Salas. "Last week I rested like whole week, so I can I think more focus on the course and Im ready," said Park, a two-time winner on the LPGA Tour. "Yesterday more hard ground, so a bit tough to hit solid, hit the ball. But today more soft fairway, everything, so it helped a lot. So more comfortable today. A lot of ice, good food, good sleep." The second-ranked Lewis, in position to take the top spot in the world ranking from Inbee Park, had a 65. "Definitely have a better feeling coming off the course today," Lewis said. "Just feel like I played a lot more solid, hit the ball better, definitely had more control going into the greens. I think less wind helped there. Just stayed really patient and made a few putts, and added up to a pretty good score." Lang finished with a 68. "Ive been pllaying really well and working really hard just trying to be confident out there and committed to my shots," Lang said. Diego Costa Jersey. "Working on a few things, so good first two days." Thompson, Munoz and Salas were unable to finish the round because of darkness after the start of play was delayed 3 1/2 hours because of overnight rain. Thompson, the Kraft Nabisco winner, and Munoz had five holes left, and Salas had seven remaining. Coming off a victory two weeks ago in the North Texas LPGA Shootout, Lewis would jump to No. 1 with a victory or a solo second-place finish, as long as third-ranked Lydia Ko doesnt win. Ko, 2 under with six holes left in the round, needs a victory to move to No. 1. Inbee Park is skipping the tournament. "Im excited," Lewis said about her lofty spot on the leaderboard. "This is a position I love to be in. I love giving myself a chance to win. Im right where I need to be. I just got to keep staying patient and get a few putts to fall." Defending champion Cristie Kerr was tied for 12th at 4 under after a 71. She also won the Michelob Ultra at the course in 2005 and 2009. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina - Juan Martin del Potro denies he has committed tax evasion in his native Argentina. D.J. Fluker Jersey . His spokesman Jorge Viale said Monday there was "no evasion" and all procedural steps were being followed to resolve the case. The newspaper Perfil reported on Sunday that Argentine tax authorities had opened a case again Del Potro. The case is reported to involve prize money from 2010, the year after Del Potro won the U.S. Open. Viale said in a statement to The Associated Press that "while the lawyers for the firm that handles the financial statements (for Del Potro) have not seen the file, it is absolutely clear that there was no fraud." Del Potro has been sidelined since March following wrist surgery. The Argentine tax office declined requests for comment. Michael Strahan Jersey .com) - The Dallas Mavericks had a five-game winning streak snapped last time out, but theyll try to get back into the winners circle Sunday evening when the Milwaukee Bucks pay a visit to American Airlines Center. Doug Kotar Jersey . Mickelson shot a 2-under 70 after opening with a 77 -- his worst score of the season -- on TPC San Antonios AT&T Oaks Course. Lefty was 11 strokes behind leader Steven Bowditch, the Australian who had a 67 to reach 8-under 136.COLUMBIA, S.C. -- Jadeveon Clowney believes hes the NFLs No. 1 draft pick and says he took a big step toward that goal during South Carolinas pro day workouts Wednesday. The 6-foot-5, 266-pound defensive end did position drills in front of dozens of NFL personnel, including Houston head coach Bill OBrien and Jacksonville head coach Gus Bradley. And Clowney thinks he elevated his already elite status during the 40 minutes or so of running through cones, jumping over hurdles and catching tennis balls in workouts he passed on at the NFL combine in February. "Yes, I do feel like I should be the first pick," Clowney said after the session. Clowney did not lift weights or run the 40-yard dash, standing on his combine showings when he did 21 reps at 225 pounds and clocked a 4.53-second time. He also felt he eased anyones concerns about his work ethic. He was considered by many the No. 1 pick after his sophomore season in 2012, when he had 13 sacks and closed it with his helmet-jarring hit on Michigans Vincent Smith in the Outback Bowl. The footage of the hit was seemingly shown daily on highlight shows and Clowney immediately became a Heisman Trophy favourite, analysts projecting record-setting sack numbers. But Clowney couldnt live up to the expectations as injuries and opponents schemed him out of plays. He finished with a disappointing three sacks. A midseason tiff with coach Steve Spurrier -- Clowney pulled himself out of the Kentucky game with a rib muscle strain without following proper protocol -- intensified questions about Clowneys work habits and going hard every play. "I think my work ethic is pretty good. I think I proved that today, but Ive still got a lot of proving to do," he said. There were 30 of 32 NFL teams represented with Tennessee and Cleveland opting to pass on South Carolinas pro day. Clowney spent Tuesday night at dinner with the Texans, including OBrien, defensive co-ordinator Romeo Crennel and general manager Rick Smith. Clowney thought the visit went well and he answered their questions about what hed bring to the Texans iff they took him with the top selection in Mays draft. Bobby Hart Jersey. Houstons leaders liked what they saw of Clowney on the field. "I thought he had a good day. He worked hard and did a bunch of different drills, which was good to see," said OBrien, the Texans first-year coach. Smith was happy to see Clowney move easily in space should the Texans draft him and use him at outside linebacker spot. Clowneys got a quick first step that lets him fly past offensive lineman, but hes also got sustained speed that allows him to chase down opponents other defensive lineman cant. "He could absolutely play outside linebacker for us," Smith said. Clowney wasnt the only former Gamecock player working out. Leading receiver Bruce Ellington, offensive lineman Ronald Patrick and quarterback Connor Shaw -- all projected to go in the draft -- also worked out for NFL scouts and leaders. But the show, as its been since he packed a high-school auditorium on Valentines Day 2011 for his college selection, was the easygoing, hard-charging Clowney. Several hundred fans that turned out cheered his every move and gave him a loud farewell when the defensive linemen wrapped up their portion of drills. "I just wish I had pads on and could hit somebody," Clowney said with a smile. Clowney has individual workouts scheduled with the St. Louis Rams and Atlanta Falcons. Houstons Smith says Clowney will also visit the Texans complex before next months draft. While OBrien said his teams draft plans were still wide open -- the Texans traded starting quarterback Matt Schaub this off-season -- Clowney hopes hes made himself a bit harder to pass up. Clowney thought a defensive line that included himself and All-Pro end J.J. Watt would be unstoppable. "Id be great, a great fit for them," Clowney said. Clowney acknowledged it was a point of pride for him that he arrived at South Carolina as the No. 1 high school prospect and leaves as the NFLs top choice. "Im just going to keep on pushing," he said, "all the way to the draft." Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '

CALGARY -- It was an Olympic heroes welcome for the unlikeliest of heroes at Calgary International Airport Tuesday. Custom Kansas City Chiefs Jerseys . Gilmore Junio stepped aside to let Denny Morrison race the 1,000 metres at the Winter Olympics in Sochi and watched his teammate deliver a silver for Canadas first speedskating medal in Sochi and follow that up with a bronze in the 1,500. But the homecoming in Calgary was all about Junio. One sign read "Gilmore for PM" while another said "Gilmore Junio won gold in the hearts of Canada". "Im pretty surprised and it definitely caught me off guard," said a beaming Junio with Morrison at his side. "When we made the decision within our team it was just such an easy decision to let him skate because he was skating so well. "This was really pleasant surprise. You see this on TV for the hockey players and stuff like that and I never thought Id be walking into one these. Its all because of him," he said with a nod to Morrison. "He makes me look good so Ill ride his coattails for a bit." Morrison, with his silver and bronze medals hanging around his neck, added to Junios accolades. "Its pretty neat how much attention this has gotten and this guy is one of the greatest guys in the world," he said. "He does things like this all the time and this is just another one of those things that Gilmore would do." Junios parents, Gino and Julie, were taken aback by the attention. "Actually we were just thinking to wait outside in the cell parking lot and I had texted him when youre done, text me and Ill pick you up," Gino said with a laugh. "We didnt really expect this. We were overwhelmed with the signs of support for him. This is amazing." Kelly Murray travelled from Red Deer, Alta., to show off her "Gilbert for PM" sign. "Its because what he did for the country was pretty special. Theres not a lot of people who would do that," she said. "He must have put the country first ahead of his own ambitions." Junio still has his ambitions and refused a request from a photographer to reach over and touch Morrisons silver medal. "Ive said I wont touch Dennys medal until Ive got my own. Thats kind of a hockey player mentality where you dont touch the Stanley Cup until you get it," he said. "But from what Ive seen it looks pretty good." Morrison is hoping to share in a future medal ceremony with his teammate. "If it all works out to the very best therell be a team sprint event in 2018 and we can be on the same team and win together that way." Chris Jones Jersey . Heather, the first Gaiter to win the award, set a Canadian Inter-university Sport record with 3,132 passing yards in eight league games, an average of 391.5 yards per game. That beat the mark of 3,047 set only one week earlier by Westerns Will Finch, a Hec Crighton finalist. Chris Conley Jersey . -- D. J. Williams finally has his packing strategy down.LIVERPOOL, England -- Scarves donated by football clubs across the world were laid out in the centre circle at Anfield, forming the shape of the number "96" beneath a clear blue sky. Outside the stadium, two middle-aged men -- one wearing a Liverpool shirt and the other an Everton jersey -- shared a warm embrace next to the famous Shankly Gates. Tuesday was the day the global football community, and in particular Merseysiders, united to mark the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough Stadium disaster in which 96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death during an FA Cup semifinal. The focal point on a day of commemoration and remembrance was Anfield, where Liverpool players past and present and the families of the victims were among the estimated 30,000 people who attended a moving memorial service. Brendan Rodgers and Roberto Martinez, the managers of Liverpool and Everton, delivered readings and then made short addresses in which they paid their respects to the men, women and children who died in Britains worst sports tragedy. Both earned standing ovations. "We will always strive to honour the families and the memory of the 96 that we lost," said Rodgers, his voice beginning to tremble. "Youll Never Walk Alone," he added, a nod to the clubs anthem. Bells from churches across the region rang 96 times and Liverpools public transport came to a halt for a minutes silence at 3:06 p.m. (1406 GMT) -- the time the fateful match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest was stopped following a crush in a standing-only section of Sheffield Wednesdays Hillsborough ground. A short memorial also was held across Stanley Park at Evertons Goodison Park, after which schoolchildren led a procession to Anfield holding 96 linked football scarves. And tributes poured in from across the world, with FIFA President Sepp Blatter sending a letter to the English Football Association in which he expressed "my deepest sympathy to the families and friends of the 96 who so tragically lost their lives in tthe Hillsborough disaster. Allen Bailey Jersey. " Flags at FIFAs member associations were flown at half-mast on Tuesday. UEFA President Michel Platini and British Prime Minister David Cameron also sent their condolences to the victims families of the 96. It isnt just the disaster that has left a deep scar on the club and city. The grieving families have spent 25 years seeking justice after authorities initially sought to place the blame on the victims by characterizing the tragedy as a result of hooliganism. The original accidental death verdicts were overturned by the High Court in London in 2012 after documents uncovered a coverup by police, and fresh inquests into the fatalities are currently being held in a bid to get the deaths officially described as unlawful killings. The inquests have been adjourned this week because of the anniversary. "The authorities took on the wrong city if they thought they were going to get away with it," Martinez said to loud cheers. The service was interrupted on two occasions by chants of "Justice for the 96." Accompanying the grieving and ongoing suffering of the families is a sense of optimism that justice is about to be served. There is also a feel-good factor in Merseyside because of the exploits of the two clubs this season, with Everton on course to qualify for next seasons Champions League and Liverpool top of the Premier League by two points as it seeks a first championship in 24 years. "Stress is good," Margaret Aspinall, chairwoman of the Hillsborough Family Support Group, said in the direction of the Liverpool squad at the end of her address, "... it makes you fight and I know that is what you are going to do to get this championship." The service started with local clergymen reading out the names of the 96 victims, with a light being lit inside a Band of Life sculpture in memory of each person. It ended with 96 balloons being released as fans sang a stirring rendition of "Youll Never Walk Alone." Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '