Ryan's Rankings: Pre-Season NCAA Basketball '09

I know, I know. 

"Isn't football before basketball Wally?"

Yes. This is a true statement. 

But when you've been at an AAU Basketball tournament all weekend, videotaping some of the nation's elite prospects, you kind of get in a hoops mood. So why not offer my early predictions on next season? 

As I said in my last post, I will take into account the incoming recruits for each program. But to be honest, I'm not going to reward Kentucky the #1 spot just because they have some great recruits. 

Sure there are those out there that are prepared and ready to take on the college level of play, but many more are not. We have no idea how they'll do. 

Michael Beasley was a great player in college and we expected him to be, rated #1 overall in the class of 2007. He was dominant and left a mark on each game he played. 

So too did Blake Griffin. But to find Griffin's name at #23, you had to pass by DeAndre Jordan, Nayal Koshwal, Chandler Parsons, and Jamelle Horne. 

My point being, ratings are usually a fair way for expectations, but can't be 100% relied upon.

All that said... here's my earliest version of predictions:

1) Kansas- Ya, it sucks that I have to have my most hated team so high. But this blog would lose all respect if they were at the bottom where I'd prefer. Kansas exceeded my expectations in the tournament this season with such a young squad, reaching the Elite 8 before falling to finalist Michigan State. Collins and Aldrich return to a now experienced lineup that is ever-improving, and thanks to John Calipari's move, they add Xavier Henry to a guard position they greatly need help at on the offensive side of the floor. I like the potential... and that not only scares me, but kills me to believe inside.

2) Michigan State- The Spartans made me look pretty smart making it to the Final Four last season and I'm hoping they make me look smart again having them predicted so high. People talk about the youth KU played with last season, but this MSU team did even better with arguably an equally young roster. Gone is Travis Walton, but more importantly, Goran Suton and Marquise Gray. But in their places lie a now veteran Chris Allen, an uber-talented Delvon Roe ready for more minutes, and Michigan's big+bruising Mr. Basketball Derrick Nix. I'd say they'll be more than fine.

3) Texas- If the Longhorns manage to keep Damion James in Austin, they may easily contend for the top spot in my rankings later in the year. Forget that they have Avery Bradley, ESPN's #1 player in the '09 class, coming in town along with Jordan Hamilton. 2 year starter's Justin Mason and Gary Johnson return and are balanced on both ends. Dexter Pittman continues to improve and we expect the same from youngster Clint Chapman. Dogus Balbay quietly finished 5th in the Big 12 in assists. And oh ya, they have a player you may remember hearing about who's now on campus and prepared to take the reigns from AJ Abrams- Jai Lucas ring a bell? Yikes. 

4) Villanova- I'm loving the possibilities in Philly next season. If Scottie Reynolds returns, this team loses NOBODY from a Final Four appearance a year ago. They'll gain a whole lot more too- a class that includes 4 players in the top 65 and finally-finally-finally a legit big man in Mouphtaou Yarou. Get ready 'Nova fans, this could be 1985 all over again.

5) West Virginia- I had to double check it: Alex Ruoff= STILL eligible?? No offense to Ruoff, but he's been a well known name for so long now, I just assumed he was a senior last year. Not the case. This year will be the year though, and as the lone graduate expected next year, this Mountaineer's team remains loaded from a year ago. Like their Big East counterparts only a slot above, they won't lose a single player from an emerging program. Da'Sean Butler, Joe Mazzula, Devin Ebanks, and Ruoff form a pretty solid 4-some in any league. And look out for New York Gaucho star Dan Jennings to make an impact in the paint. He could be a surprise candidate for Big East Freshman of the Year by season's end. 

6) UNC- I'm still not sold on the Heels being towards the top (ya, even #6), but I'm banking on the preparation and coaching this staff will provide to have a group of inexperienced players ready to roll again. Despite losing Tyler Hansbrough, I believe the post is actually the place that needs the least work. Ed Davis, Deon Thompson, and a healthy Tyler Zeller return and will be joined by 5-Star John Henson. But the backcourt is extremely shaky and lacks all sorts of depth. Larry Drew II looked capable of handling himself, but past him, there's nobody. Dexter Strickland and Leslie McDonald may be two of the most pressure-felt frosh in the nation next year. Without solid contributions, this team will fail. 

7) Purdue- A fantastic team that I've loved watching for the last two seasons is back among the nation's elite in 2009. The Boilers went one step further in the NCAA's last year than in 2007 and have been one of the fastest improving teams in the nation since their amazing freshman class arrived that summer. Robbie Hummel is healthy, JaJuan Johnson is putting on pounds, and E'Twan Moore is now a house hold name like Hummel who continues to put the ball in the bucket. Glue men Chris Kramer and Keaton Grant are also back. But, similar to Villanova, Purdue seems to be heading in a direction that will always hit a road block when faced against opponents who thrive in the paint. With a recruiting class that looks like another edition of "big man by committee", Purdue will only go so far as their bracket's bless them. 

8) Duke- I anticipate Gerald Henderson to remain in the Draft but either way, I think the Blue Devils are stuck around #8. The Devils have some solid tools, but remain a "close...but not quite" team. Kyle Singler is a fantastic player and has some players around him (Jon Scheyer, Nolan Smith, Lance Thomas, Elliot Williams, Brian Zoubek) who remain the reigning ACC Tournament Champions. Add Mason Plumlee and Ryan Kelly and you've got to be asking, "Why not higher than 8th?". To this question, I have no answer. But just like season's past, there is just something going on at Duke that lacks the old firepower and keeps them from being a top-tier team in my eyes.

9) Butler- I said it late last season on a message board and received a mediocre response: "Brad Stevens should be a top nominee for Coach of the Year." Last season, the 3 leading scorers for the Bulldogs were a Sophomore and two Freshman. Well, of course, they're all back- Matt Howard, Gordan Hayward, and Shelvin Mack. Stevens and Co. won't shy away from competition this year either, jumping right in to the heat of battle at the 76 Classic in which I expect an upset over one of the "bigger contenders" (UCLA, Minnesota, West Virginia, Clemson, and/or Texas A&M). 

10) Tennessee- Sure, it was a down season for the SEC. And after Tyler Smith announced his intentions to declare, things looked more bleak for '09. But I expect Smith to see a brighter future at UT and if that happens, look for the Vols to sky rocket. Bobby Maze, Wayne Chism, Josh Tabb, JP Prince, and Smith would give the men in orange a vital senior core. I also expect the highly ranked freshman class from a year ago to make a big turn around, most notably Scotty Hopson and Cameron Tatum. They're high octane and mistake prone because of it, but they're still just too experienced to be left out of this Top 10. 

-Narrowly Missing: Clemson, Minnesota, Oklahoma

Weekend Snacks

I don't have a real topic to talk at length at today, but I'll give you some thoughts and links to a few other stories to hold you over. 

I plan on unveiling my preseason Top 10 in NCAA Basketball for 2009-2010 coming up within the next few days.

Speaking of NCAA Basketball, some teams that crack my Top 10 will find a spot because of outstanding recruiting, something Wisconsin coach Bo Ryan has done for years. But looking ahead two years from now, Bo may need to discuss some precious recruiting points with his very own Badger fans before they sabatoge his entire class!

Click Here for the Story...

Finally, I attended my first Royals game at the newly renovated Kauffman Stadium today. The venue is fantastic and I recommend everyone get out to at least a few games this summer. It's truly astonishing that you're in the same stadium, especially when you reach the outfield. (Also, words of wisdom, don't waste a walk around the stadium just to see the Royals Hall of Fame located in left field- it doesn't open until July...FYI)

Unfortunately this topic isn't focused on the stadium's beauty nor will it be focused on the up and coming Royals (who have hit a slump as of late). It won't even be focused on the amazing Zack Greinke, who I've mentioned before and I saw in person pitch fairly well today. Nope, this time around I want to mention how much of a poison Jose Guillen is to this ball club.

I sat mere feet away from Guillen today in my Row M seats along the right field foul line and watched him botch somewhere between 2 and 4 (depending on your analysis of the hits) fly balls, at least 2 of which caused Indians' runs. 

I don't care if this guy can smack the cover off a ball. I don't care that he batted in one of the Royals 3 runs today. 

Guillen is quite possibly the laziest outfielder in the history of Major League Baseball. I'm considering selling t-shirts for those sitting where I did today that simply say "No Way Jose"- poking fun at the fact that any ball hit outside Guillen's 2 foot radius will be a sure hit. It's not that he won't dive for balls. He won't even sprint to get them, not even on a one hop. I'm not sure if he's worried he'll pull a hammy or what, but he's costing KC games at this point and after this year, it may be time to unload his $36,000,000 contract and ship him off to the 11th team of his career. If not, more instances like this (below) are bound to happen...

Let's Talk NBA DRAFT

I live for Drafts.

NFL, NBA, heck- there could be a draft for the next neighborhood council president and I would probably research the candidates for the best "sleeper" and "can't miss" prospect.

Well, okay, maybe that was a bit over the edge...

Still, with the NBA Draft Lottery coming up in just a matter of hours, why not give you the 4-1-1 on the players I have high hopes for in the League next season, and those I think will fall harder than Sam Bowie. I take that back, Sam gets enough trash talked on him, so let's just substitute him with, say, Michael Olowokandi. 

Ok, so let's start with just an overview of this 2009 crop.

Overall, I think this is a mirror image of this year's NFL Draft- While their are some diamonds both individually and positionally, as a whole, it's pretty forgettable. 

Anyone who says Blake Griffin will be a flop has obviously not seen him play. As a pure post man, he is a better player than Michael Beasley. In fact, he might top or tie Beasley in every statistical category minus an outside shot and speed. 

As usual, I know absolute jack about the European players this year. The only thing I can say is that Rubio has been getting some nice publicity for at least the last 3 years- keying me to believe that he's been a legit prospect for some time and has a rightful place in the top 5. 

Thabeet will be a defensive presence in the NBA if he can stay healthy. Jordan Hill will be a great player given some patience. And James Harden will either be as advertised, or flop like he did in the big games last season (I'm leaning toward the ladder). 

And speaking of flops, there are a lot I see coming with this class of prospects.

       

• I love Demar DeRozan and deeply believe he can be an elite talent. But until he decides to buck up and use his body to his advantage and find a jump shot at that, it could be a rough early career for him. 
  
• Jrue Holiday is another Pac-10 frosh that I would steer clear of. He didn't live up to expectations and another year of college basketball would've been much more beneficial for his long term. 
  
• Ty Lawson has a great resume, but his height will get to him in the NBA. I like Johnny Flynn as a point guard much more. 
  
• DeJuan Blair will unfortunately fall into the "great college player" category. He had a body that could bump around with the smaller fellas in the D-1 ranks. Tougher to do that against guys in the pro's who weigh an equal weight, but still have 3 inches on you. It's not completely out of the ordinary to think that Blair will fail- he could take the Jason Maxiell route. But unfortunately for the Pitt prospect, I see more of a "Joey Dorsey-like future" ahead.
• Finally, Austin Daye is the weakest/most overhyped prospect I've had to listen about for the past 2 years since I began watching basketball in general. It's not hard to dominate the WCC (ask Adam Morrison). Daye is athletically gifted, but not at all ready for the NBA. 
  

Now for the under the radar guys that I really think will provide a surprising spark for a few lucky teams.

• My boys from Louisville are great players. Forget that Earl Clark is a little undersized. Forget that Terrence Williams has average ball control. These guys are athletic freaks. They can get to the hole and both improved their shooting through their last season with Rick Pitino. They are both incredible players who also have a knack for defense and they should make 2 teams very happy in the 1st round.
• I mentioned Johnny Flynn as being a point guard I like at the next level. But honestly, he's still #2 on my chart. Nope, not behind Rubio. Nope, not behind diaper disaster Brandon Jennings. I'm talking about Eric Maynor. He's got it all- height (6'2), vision, speed, handles, defense (nice wingspan), and the leadership capabilities to take a franchise on his shoulders. If Maynor had had half the talent at VCU that other major programs do, it's scary to think of the college career he could have had. 
• Maybe I'm biased because I've followed his game since the day he visited Kansas State thinking he'd be adorned in Wildcat purple one day. Well actually, Marcus Thornton ended up choosing the Bayou purple of LSU and didn't disappoint. He really came into the spotlight during his senior campaign. The thing I love about Thornton is that he is a born scorer; he finds a way to put the ball in. Not a great defender, but then again, in the league, only a few are.
• Lastly, look out for 2 possible late 2nd-rounders: Missouri's DeMarre Carroll and Marquette's Wesley Matthews. Carroll is tenacious and has a body to bruise the inside. Though undersized at only 6'8, he isn't a natural power forward anyway. He's a great combo forward because he has the ability to drag out defenders due to his superior shooting abilities, but at the same time, has a no fear attitude that will bang inside. He does have a habit for foul trouble and sometimes disappearing in games, but when he wants to play, he can and does it at a high level. Matthews is a fantastic shooter and ball handler for 6'5. He should make a nice compliment guard for a team with a solid post player and point.

Think I'm on point? Think I'm way offfff? Leave a comment and enjoy the draft!

Up Yours- ESPN

Now wait just a minute before you blow a gasket on this one.

I love ESPN. I eat, sleep, breathe sports and without the #1 network for men like me, how on earth would I survive? 

But lately, I've found myself becoming more and more frustrated by coverage and choices my favorite station is making.

You know, honestly, I began this article thinking I would bash Michael Phelps. I like the guy, but after reading this story on the ESPN homepage, I had had enough of Phelps- his bong and his stupid handlebars.

I mean, who cares if he loses a race in Charlotte? We're not even a full year gone since Phelps snagged his record setting gold medal (272 days to be exact). Get at me when the next Olympics are actually on the radar!

Then I realized something: It's not really Phelps whose to blame for my disgust. It's ESPN for actually covering the event!

Sure, we had some what of a down day today with sports. But don't even begin to argue that this is a down period and that there's nothing else to talk about. See what my man Sean Kosednar's blog has to say about that (dead on!). 

Phelps ridiculous coverage is just the tip of the iceberg with ESPN lately. First, there's the new morning SportsCenter format. What happened to the days of waking up before elementary school and being able to sit down for an hour and catch everything you need to know in bang-bang segments. 

"This team played this other team last night. Here are the highlights. Here is the final. Now let's move on..."

Just the other day I had to sit around for almost 40 minutes waiting to see a 2 video-segment highlight of the Cubs victory over the Padres. In that wasted in between time, I managed to watch a preview for some Nascar All-Star race, a 3-part ramble from studio to ballpark to studio about Alex Rodriguez's return which was followed by a similar 10 minute piece about Manny Ramirez, and finally enjoyed a piece I had already seen twice (on the website and E:60) about UFC owner Dana White. Thanks for all that bologna. Now I can sprint to class knowing just about nothing that happened in sports yesterday!

Then there's this SportsCenter L.A. which still has me puzzled. So there's a studio on the west coast? Or are we just replaying SportsCenter with special promos at a later time so people that have to watch the late Eastern Time SportsCenter at like 8 pm feel special and get their own version? 

ESPN.com/Chicago? When does KC get one? Because now everybody will have demand.

ESPN on Twitter? Isn't that what the original ESPN website is for? (PS- Don't even get me started on "Tweeting". That's a whole different devil I need to touch on soon)

Speaking of the website, the constant videos and ads that pop up. Don't get me wrong, I understand they're trying to be 2.0 and make a dime, but dang... over kill. 

Listen, all I ask for is simplicity. If ESPN wants more depth and more pissazz, by all means, do the damn thing. 

But please, give the "old-schoolers" like myself a resource to check in for 60 minutes and get the scoop and what I need to know.

And bring back Stu Scott and Rich Eisen. Chris Berman, Scott Van Pelt, and whoever his toadie is just aren't getting it done. Hmmmm, maybe that'll give me a topic for the next update with Up Yours...

Witness....The Stopper....Kinda

I hate to call him out on my own blog. I mean, without the man, not only would this blog not exist, but I wouldn't either. 

But I'll never forget the day that Lebron James' name was called to the podium with the #1 pick in the 2003 NBA Draft. The words that slipped out of my Dad's mouth will forever live in emphamy. 

"I just don't see it. This guy is that good? I don't think so. I have a feeling he flops."

As he will admit to on cue now, my father was a little off with that statement. Maybe even more than just a little.

I sat back and watched, more like glanced, at what was a quick destruction of the Atlanta Hawks in the Eastern Semi's this last week. 

Sitting in the studio at my radio station, I thought to myself of a question that may just sit unanswered forever. 

"Can Lebron James be guarded? And if so, by whom?"

Well let's start with what we need to match-up with "The King". 

1. A player between 6'6 and 6'10 who weighs at least 220 (James is 6'8, and somewhere around 260 some analysts believe. James refuses to reveal his real weight)
2. A decent wingspan for frustration when James becomes a ball-handler 
3. A fearless attitude with a body to take the bumps and bruises for when James decides to enter the paint
4. Athleticism to stick with James up and down the floor
5. Defense-first mentality

With that criteria, I've selected a list of what I believe to be the best candidates...

• Ron Artest (6'7, 261)
• Shane Battier (6'8, 220)
• Luol Deng (6'9, 220)
• Rudy Gay (6'8, 222)
• Antawn Jamison (6'9, 235)
• Joe Johnson (6'7, 240)
• Rashard Lewis (6'10, 230)
• Lamar Odom (6'10, 230)
• Gerald Wallace (6'7, 220)
• Marvin Williams (6'9, 240)

So let's brainstorm.

Artest is one of the best in the league and would put a body on Lebron more than anybody else on the list, but his speed would probably be torched in a running game with James. Same goes for Battier (Edge- 'Bron x2)

Luol Deng is an interesting case. On January 15, he faced James and held the phenom to 8-28 shooting in a Bulls win. He's got the length and can run, but gets bumped around. Hints why in the 2 games prior to the 15th Lebron went off for 41 a piece. (Edge- 'Bron)

Gay has all the tools but isn't known for his defensive prowess. He's athletic, but still more of a big man at heart with his footwork. This photo says it all. (Edge- 'Bron)

Jamison/Johnson/Williams have all had their chances to stop James both in the regular season and in the playoffs and he has yet to be stopped by any of them. (Edge- 'Bron)

Lewis is hit or miss. He and Hedo Turkolu held Lebron to 20-some points in a late regular season game where the Magic led at points by 40. But overall, he's still offensive minded and at times get's crossed by James. (Edge- 'Bron)

Odom has been hit or miss with James. But I can't give him the advantage because he usually gets help from Kobe Bryant in the Cav/Lakers games. (Edge- 'Bron slightly)

Which leaves us with Gerald Wallace.

In 3 games total between the Cavs and Bobcats, no player held James in check more than GW. Wallace arguably had James number this season, holding 'Bron to 24-48 shooting and never allowing more than 9 baskets in a single outing. 

So there you have it- Gerald Wallace : The NBA's only 1-1 chance to stop LeBron James. 

But let's be honest. It truly is nearly impossible to stop #23. Maybe more so than even Michael Jordan as James continues to grow as a person and player. 

This is still a KID! He's only 25 years old folks and (not factoring in Playoff points) could eclipse Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's points total by age 43. Is it outlandish to think he can do that? Probably. But with his strong bill of health so far in his career and his stead fast improvement, nothing is out of the question.

The Triple Crown Continues

I didn't fair well with my picks in the Kentucky Derby 2 weeks ago...

1. Regal Ransom- 8th
   
2. Papa Clem- 4th

But have no fear, my Preakness selection is in for Saturday. And c'mon, who doesn't love a comeback? 

I'm fairly confident in this horse, so he will be the only pick I give. Cash it in for...

Pioneerof the Nile

Raced well in the Derby (taking 2nd) and is known for his sprinting ability. The Preakness is the shortest of the 3 Triple Crown Races. You do the math...

Chi-Town Stand Up!

Just when you think it's okay to cue the laughter at the city of Chicago, you best check yourself.

In most cases, after the Bulls series loss to the Celtics, Windy City'ers would have no where to go but Wrigley Field to cheer on the Cubs until September (as much as it pains me to say it) or the woeful White Sox who can't seem to get out of the AL Central cellar once occupied by the Royals.

But in the words of Lee Corso, "Not So Fast My Friend". 

In 2009, Chicago has/can/will keep their red and black on because they have a hockey team that is torching the Western Conference on their way to the Finals to await the Detroit/Anaheim winner.

Listen, if you haven't seen the Blackhawks play yet, I can't blame you. Even I can't say I've seen them more than a few times all season. It's hard enough to catch a regular season game on television if you don't have Versus, and evidently even harder in playoff time. 

But I've done my best to keep up with what's going on on the frozen surface. And like I said from day 1 (believe it or not), if anybody is going to knock off the Red Wings from the Western Conference mantle, it will be the Chicago Blackhawks. 

This team continues to impress. Just when I thought the Vancouver Canucks could be the surprise team to beware of (crushing my St. Louis Blues in a clean 4-0 sweep), Chicago resiliently slides Vancouver out of the way and now has some time to wait on a Conference Finals opponent. 

You can look at the regular season or the playoffs as far as statistics are concerned. But either way you boil it, the result is the same- impressive.

Regular Season - (League Rank)

Goals Per Game: 4th

Goals Against Per Game: 5th

Playoffs - (League Rank)

Goals Per Game: 2nd

Goals Against Per Game: 10th (5 of which remain alive)

Then there are the individual statistics. 

Patrick Kane is 4th in the Playoffs with 8 goals. Martin Havlat and Patrick Sharp each have 5, while Jonathan Toews and Dave Bolland aren't far behind with 4 a piece. Kris Versteeg and Brian Campbell are among the leaders with 7 assists. 

Sure there are some question marks that loom over the future of the 'Hawks and just how far they can go, but they are slowly being answered.

Coming into the playoffs they were 3rd in the league in OT losses. So far in the playoffs, 2 OT games and 2 OT victories.

The power play and penalty killing percentage points were mediocre at best prior to the playoffs. But through 12 games, they are leading all teams in power play with 29.4% and a penalty kill of nearly 80%- which is pretty good when you consider Chicago is widely considered one of the roughest teams in the NHL, leading all remaining teams with 189 penalty minutes through the playoffs.

And that's exactly why they will be so hard for Detroit, assuming they slide past the Ducks, to defeat in the conference finale. Detroit is like the San Antonio Spurs or Los Angeles Lakers of hockey. They strive on finesse, speed, and the transition game from blue line to blue line. The Blackhawks...think more along the lines of the early 2000 Detroit Pistons (or if we wanna go way back, the Bad Boys in general). You'll get shots, but the minute after you rip it, you're going to get hit...hard. They are fast up front, but like a brick house on defense. They have a great mix of young talent, but have a veteran at the one position you need one most- goalie, Nikolai Khabibulin. 

Other than the Hurricanes, it's tough to find a team playing better. And so long as they don't have to meet the Penguins (who in my eyes is the best team left in all areas of the game) in the Finals, I dare say Chicago just may bring home a new friend...Lord Stanley himself.

Break Time! New Mash-Up For Your Enjoyment

Everybody has something they do during down time for finals. 

Some people break to watch a movie. Others break to take a walk or work out. 

My break? Making mash-ups. 

Here's my latest creation including a few of Tennessee's finest: Young Buck's "Get Buck" beat mixed with the lyrics of Three 6 Mafia & Lil Jon's "Act A Fool"

(WARNING! EXPLICIT LYRICS)

The Hangover

Yes, it's Sunday, but I'm not referring to how most of the Manhattan population is feeling today with finals upon us.

No, no, no. I'm referring to the upcoming movie The Hangover which has quickly jumped up my must-see list after watching one of the funniest trailers I've seen in quite some time.

According to imdb.com, the movie (slated for release on June 5th) is - "A Las Vegas-set comedy centered around three groomsmen who lose their about-to-be-wed buddy during their drunken misadventures, then must retrace their steps in order to find him."

Sounds funny enough right? WRONG.
It looks HILARIOUS because it's not everyday we get to see Mike Tyson belt Phil Collins.

And People Wonder Why I Hate The Lakers

First off, if you aren't watching the NBA Playoffs by now, we've got problems.

As if the Chicago vs. Boston series alone wasn't enough to get you to turn on the television, this Rockets vs. Lakers series is shaping up to be every bit as dramatic. Maybe not on the scoreboard, but definitely in style of play.

After the Rockets took Game 1 with tremendous shooting touch from Ron Artest, Yao Ming, and Aaron Brooks, the Lakers came out in Game 2 with an obvious chip on their shoulder.

Last season in the NBA Finals, it was blatantly obvious that the Los Angeles Lakers were a finesse basketball team that would prefer to play an up-tempo style game that relied heavily on basic basketball fundamentals- dribbling, passing, and shooting. 

However, the Boston Celtics made each game of the series their style- slow pace, face up, and try to stop me. Loose ball: we're getting it. Rebound: we're getting it. If that means throwing elbows and pushing players out of the way, so be it. We will be physical and we will rough you up on our way to each victory. And they did.

Well after Houston coach Rick Adelman opted for a similar game plan in the Game 1 victory (or as similar as the Western Conference gets to Eastern Conference basketball), the Lakers got a case of deja vu and came out with their knuckles taped and mouth guards in Wednesday night in the Staples Center. 

I have no problem with that. It was refreshing to see the Lakers man-up and, to put it bluntly, "not take any crap from anybody". 

BUT, Lakers, this is still basketball, their are rules, and their are limits. 

Evidently Derek Fisher and Kobe Bryant didn't get that memo. 

I've always admired Fisher for his fair play and effort through his later years. His incredible journey from New York to Utah by plane following a medical procedure his daughter underwent in order to make it back for half time of a playoff game 2 years ago was tearful to say the least. But Fisher quickly hit my bad list last night with this tasteless play on Luis Scola.

And to think that whole incident was created because Scola held Lamar Odom's jersey during the play before. 

C'mon Fish. I'm pretty sure that was even dirtier than the Rajon Rondo foul I commented on further down this blog. 

Then there's my boy Kobe Bryant. Just when I thought Kobe and I had turned a new leaf, he pulls this stunt. 

Happens all the time in the pro's, I know. Just ask Dwight Howard.

But if Kobe Bryant doesn't receive some kind of fine for this, the league truly does have a player that is untouchable.

Kobe Bryant has played like this for years. He's what I refer to as "sneaky dirty". He does the little things that some coaches teach youngsters to do when you're in elementary school. Tug on the jerseys, pull down shorts, nudge with your elbow when you're in the air fighting for rebounds. The little things that many times referees don't notice. 

Well Ron Artest knows full well about it and after last night had enough. I like how far Artest has come, not delivering some kind of blow to Bryant after the play or relaxing on the scorers table while the refs discussed the event. Now, was he deserving to be thrown out- probably. You can't just run across the court and get in somebody's face and not expect to be thrown out with a reputation like Artests. But make no mistake, Ron had every intent to do so and mark my words Kobe Bryant deserves every bit of what he's about to get in Houston when the series continues for Game 3. 

Way to grab your kahoona's and ride into a game ready for war Lakers. But I think you might have messed with the wrong squad...

In...BIRDMAN...We Trust

Wallyz World just wants to stop by for a second time today to start the first of another blog series called, "In ____ We Trust". 

In volume one, we'd like to salute the Denver Nugget's own Chris "BIRDMAN" Andersen.

- Your hustle and intensity is unrivaled in the Western Conference playoffs to date. You are virtually un-guardable for Dirk Nowitzki. You are the king of the tip in. You have a mohawk and your own t-shirts (see below). And you are the best white player...umm, inked player....no, bird player....umm, the best Nuggets....

Well scratch those- let's just cut to the chase.

This is why for May 6th 2009- 

IN BIRDMAN WE TRUST.

And now a little Birdman meets Birdman.

This one's for you #11...

Up Yours- Brett Favre

Who the hell does this guy think he is. Seriously Brett? AGAIN?! 

As if last summer's drama wasn't enough. Now you're back for another Oscar worthy performance. This egotistical maniac just has to have the spotlight on him at all times.

I'm done....no seriously I'm done.

I'm done....but I may be interested soon.

I'm done....but I'm interested.

I don't think I'm done....there may be something in the tank.

I thought I was ready....but I thought things over again, and I'm done.

Ok I'm ready to come back, any takers?

I hated Brett Favre as a Packer. I hated Brett Favre as a Jet. And I'll hate Brett Favre as a Viking. 

People used to tell me, "There is no reason to hate on Favre. He's a hell of a player." 

Well duh! The effort he brings on each play is phenomenal and you're always guaranteed to get 100% out of Favre no matter the score. 

But from the beginning it was obvious to me, this guy just likes the lime light a little too much. He has to be witty at all of his press conferences. He's got to throw his arms in the air and run down the field after every touchdown. He cries, he farts, he picks his nose in the huddle. He has to be THE GUY on whatever team he's on. 

When the Packers drafted Aaron Rodgers with the 24th pick in the 2005 Draft, Favre was livid. He may not have said it bluntly, but deep down, it bothered him. Which is why he threatened retirement in '06- so people wouldn't ask him if this was Aaron Rodgers team. And why he threatened retirement in '07. And why he threatened retirement in '08. 

"Hey look at me, I'm still here! I just want to see if you guys still love me." 

And when Favre finally left Green Bay, he didn't even return calls to Rodgers who was seeking advice and wanted to wish his mentor good luck. 

People can't understand why he wants to come back now in '09. Why, why, why, would this great QB want to tarnish his brilliant career anymore.

Well it's pretty obvious to me. His ego once again.

For as many records as Favre owns, he's one of the worst-great QB's of all time when it comes to the big games. Don't believe me? Maybe Sal Paolantonio's article from last year will change your mind.

You want to know when I knew Favre wasn't going to retire the first time? 2 words- Corey Webster.

Are you kidding? Brett Favre end his career where his first pass started- on an interception? Haha, Brett just could not live with that. 

You want to know when I knew Favre wasn't going to retire after this last season? 2 words- Chad Pennington.

Are you kidding? Brett Favre end his career losing 4 out of his last 5 games to miss the playoffs, throwing 8 INT's to 2 TD's, the final dagger courtesy of the QB his Jets let go to get him? Haha, Brett just can not live with that.

Brett Favre still believes he's the Brett Favre of old and just can't give it up. It has nothing to do with him wanting to play the game of football he loves so much. It's that he has to go out with a golden game. John Elway had his and dammit, Brett wants his too.

The funniest part of it all is that that will never happen and Favre doesn't understand that his own ego is the Pompeii to his career. Destructive killer. 

Anyone who used to respect Favre, does not now and probably never will. 

SO BRETT FAVRE- UP YOURS PAL!

Who Is This Kid?!

Let me get this straight- Through 45 innings...

• 0.40 ERA
• 54 Strikeouts
• 24 hits allowed
• 8 walks allowed
• 2 earned runs
• 6 Wins in 6 Starts

And this is all happening by a pitcher in my own backyard of Kansas City? THE ROYALS?

Listen up folks, if you don't know who Zack Greinke is by now, you soon will because he is cruising (cruizzzzzzzzing) to the AL Cy Young this season. 

I can't get over this kind of pitching, not just because of how staggering the numbers are, but mainly because of who's putting them up. 

If you aren't up to date with the story of Greinke, let me catch you up to speed.

After being named Gatorade's National Pitcher of the Year in 2002, Zack was drafted in the first round of the draft and went on to become the Royals & Sporting News minor league pitcher of the year going 15-4 with a 1.93 ERA. 

2004 wasn't quite the same year, but wasn't a total loss either. He did manage to win 8 games and had a sub-4 ERA. 

But that off season, troubles arose in the mind and life of Zack Greinke that looked to damage his promising career forever. He left spring training early that year suffering from social anxiety disorder. When he returned in April, he was immediately placed on the 60 day DL due to "psychological issues" and took a hiatus from baseball until his rehab was complete. 

The following season Zack came back to pitch phenomenally through spring training, only to crumble in the regular season, being demoted to bullpen duty. 

2008 showed some spark and Greinke was awarded a new contract after winning 13 games.

Which brings us to '09. And oh boy what a few games we've had. 

Let's compare Greinke's first 5 starts to those of Cliff Lee and C.C. Sabathia, the AL's last 2 Cy Young Winners, during their award winning campaigns.

INNINGS PITCHED: ZG- 36 , CL- 37 , CC- 34

ERA: ZG- 0.50 , CL- 0.96 , CC- 2.96

HITS: ZG- 24 , CL- 19 , CC- 37

WALKS: ZG- 8 , CL- 2 , CC- 8

STRIKEOUTS: ZG- 44 , CL- 32 , CC- 35

WINS: ZG- 5 , CL- 5 , CC- 5

Looking at those numbers, I believe he's on pace to out-do both of Cleveland's winners. (And remember, that's not factoring in what Greinke did Monday night vs. the White Sox- 9 IP, 6 Hits, 10 K's, 0 ER)

I gotta admit, as much as this kid bothered me with his antics and attitude early in his career, it's been amazing to see him exceed my expectations and bounce back so incredibly. Let it be known now- Greinke, I'm pulling for an All-Star start this July in St. Louis!

K-State's Spring Game & Fan Fest

Just a little something I put together for work in case you couldn't attend...

 

Pacqui-YOW!

I realize that boxing just isn't the draw it used to be. 

In fact, I think that I'm the only one that even bothers calling local bars here in Manhattan to see if they're carrying the fights anymore. 

- "Ummm, there's a fight on?"

- "Ya, it's the boxing match on PPV."

- "Oh, I thought you meant UFC. Nope, don't have it."

Still, there are those few fights and fighters that remain in this wonderfully exciting sport that can bring in the dollars and draw the crowds. 

- Oscar had it. But now he's called it quits.

- Floyd Mayweather Jr. was all over it...and then decided he was done.

- Jermaine Taylor looked like he was destined to take the reigns, but then he went ice cold and lost his belt. 

Today, one fighter is left and looks destined to be the next big thing. That man is Manny Pacquiao. 

Pacquiao will take on British phenom Ricky Hatton on Saturday Night in what is being billed as the biggest and best match in the last few years. Hatton has only lost 1 time (Mayweather Jr.) and has hired Money Mayweather's father as his trainer for the fight. Pacquiao is coming off a dominating win over De La Hoya that basically forced the great into retirement. Sounds worth the money, huh? Well as much as I love the sport and as much as it needs this...

STAY AWAY FROM THIS FIGHT!!!!

I'm just being honest when I say that Hatton stands 0 chance in this fight. Captial Z- zero. Pacquiao is in another league. Hatton is good. But he's your typical Brit fighter. He's tough as nails, stubborn, and appears quick until placed against a fighter like Pacquiao. Basically- He's a pub brawler. 

When Hatton took on Mayweather Jr, I was hearing the same things. Being a huge Floyd fan, I steered clear though. As expected, Mayweather punished Hatton into a KO. His speed swirled Hatton to dizziness as he peppered the Brit's face to a tomato. 

While I still think Mayweather is the best fighter, Pacquiao is even more destructive. He throws harder leather and is actually putting on weight for this fight. He's deceptively quick and can take a punch probably better than even Floyd. 

If Hatton got KO'd by FMjr, there is no chance he stands every round with Pacquiao. So don't bother ordering it. Just watch the highlights on SportsCenter. You'll thank me later.

Plus, with the money you'll save on this fight, you can put it towards the upcoming Pacquiao vs. Mayweather fight. And that's worth every penny!