#9 Kansas defeats #7 Ohio State

On December 23rd, the Kansas Jayhawks traveled to Columbus, OH to only beat the Buckeyes by eight in a 74-66 win. This was the first away game for Kansas freshman Ben McLemore. He was also the leading scorer of the game finishing with 22 points. "This was great. It was my first time playing in an away game" McLemore said in a statement following the game.

Kansas has now been on a nine-game winning streak since losing by three to Michigan State back on November 13th. Seven of the wins are at home which make their record 7-0 thus far. Referring back to the game, the Jayhawks had a 14-0 run on the Buckeyes in the first half putting the Ohio State fans on pins and needles. They then held Ohio State without a field goal for 10 minutes to maintain control of the game.

Ohio State only hit 9 of  the 36 shots that was taken in the second half meaning they only hit 31 percent. Three of the Buckeyes' main starters only hit 5 of 24 from the field. This was the third victory for the Jayhawks against the Buckeyes in over a year after beating them in the NCAA semis in a nail-biting 64-62 win. "Today is probably the best we've played against Ohio State in the three games," stated Kansas coach Bill Self. The Jayhawks' next game is against American University at 8pm on ESPN 3.

Falcons Fans...Are You On Pins and Needles?

Yesterday the Atlanta Falcons (8-0), visited their NFC rival the New Orleans Saints at the Superdome. I am pretty sure that "Rise Up" and "Who Dat" fans around the world was glued to the television. This is one of the greatest rilvaries in the NFL. It was an intense game considering that the score was so close. Both defenses were determined to not let the offense of the other team score.

With the xcore being 28-27 Saints, the Falcons were able to keep them out of the endzone to score a touchdown. On this drive, Jimmy Graham had a 46-yard completion and then the Saints were stopped on 3rd down and 11 yards to end their drive before their kick team was sent to the field to take the lead. Matt Ryan being the great quarterback actually drove the Falcons back down the field with 37 seconds remaining.

On 3rd down and 3, Ryan's pass to Jacquizz Rogers was completed gaining 14 yards on that play. A few plays later, Rogers gained another 18 yards. Matt Ryan was able to have complete passes to six receivers, but the last pass to Roddy White just couldn't get the job done and they lost their first game. With at least eight weeks left until playoffs will the Falcons bounce back from this loss and keep their winning streak going? This team is known to do real good in the season and disappoint their fans during the playoffs. Only time will tell. Will they "Rise Up"? Stay tuned....

The Truth Shall Always Set You Free!....Ask Brian Banks

Brian Banks have an inspiring story that can touch those who read it.  He was the young man that was falsely accussed of rape at the age of 16 when he was a star linebacker for his high school football team. The next 10 years of his life was taken away because he served five years in prison and another five years on probation. Even though his privileges were stripped and he was only able to do so much, but he never lost hope and still trained as if he was trying out for a professional football team. He was exonerated this past May because the allegations appeared to be untrue. Upon that news, several NFL teams became interested in him and he was able to attend mimicamps for the Summer. Banks ended up at the minicamp of the Seattle Seahawks who is coached by Pete Carroll, the former USC coach who received a verbal committment from Banks that he was going to attend that college to play football.This past Wednesday Banks' dream came true when he signed with the Las Vegas Locos of the United Football League. He still has high hopes in being in the NFL, but of course just like everyone else, he has to start from somewhere. Even though this ain't the time for him to do so, he left an impact on NFL personnel and he is still on their minds. I am pretty sure that there will be more on this story because if it doesn't inspire then I don't know what it does. This goes to show that if you are meant to do something, it is never too late. Stay tuned for more on the successful journey of Brian Banks.

Lets Be More Careful Football Fans

As you know, everybody's ready for some football! Fans have long anticipated this ever since the end of the summer was approaching. Getting game gear ready, making plans to attend the games to tailgate or either watch it, meeting up at a friend or family member's house to have a game day party, or take the day a relax to enjoy it alone. Football is the sport that just brings everyone together to have a great time and create more memories to add onto your journey in life. It also gives you an adrenaline rush like no other. You just want to gear up and get on the field with them.

Now I am shifting the subject just a little bit. As I mentioned in the paragragh above, football is a sport that just brings excitement to people all over the world. It is sad to hear that within a 24 hour time period, two fans fell to their deaths from long falls within the football stadiums in Houston and Atlanta. It is understandable that you are having a great time, but please be careful. The memories that you want to have for that game should be happy not sad ones. You never know what can be going on inside of someone else's mind, nor are you really worried about it because you are too busy watching the game, but try and keep a close eye on those that are with you. These stories should be eye openers to all football fans. Things can get a little crazy when you are in an environment that is filled with thousands of people, but it isn't worth your life. For more on these stories, please click on the links below.

http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/8324831/fan-dies-fall-georgia-dome-upper-deck-tennessee-north-carolina-state-game

http://sports.yahoo.com/news/nfl--man-falls-to-his-death-at-texans-game--fourth-fan-fatality-in-four-years.html

USA Women's Basketball Team Completes "The Drive For Five"

The USA Women's basketball team won the gold medal yesterday defeating France by 36. This win was the 41st consecutive win for the team dating all the way back to 1992. During the USA women's winning streak, they won each game by at least 30 points with only one game decided by single digits. In the semi-final game against Austrailia, USA trailed at halftime for the first time in 12 years.

USA women's coach Geno Auriemma stated “No other country in the world has the legacy that we do in basketball, so when we took the court, our 12 players tonight, they had that legacy with them,” “And as the game goes on the other team starts to sense we're not just playing these 12, we're playing something bigger than these 12. And that's a testament to all of the other coaches and all of the other players that contributed to this over the past 20 years.”

As they were headed into the Olympics, team USA realized that they were going to have to work hard regardless of the talents that they had on their team. They never counted anybody out. They was just focused on playing their game. They wanted to keep the foundation going that the past USA women's basketball team had laid for them. Candace Parker stated “You never want to be that team that ends the streak, so I think it was great for us to continue the winning tradition and get another gold medal.” , and they did just that. In the beginning of the tournament, Parker really didn't have a rhythm. As Auriemma decided to bring her off the bench, that seemed to work. No other team seemed to have the spark that they had when it came to Parker. She saved her best game for last too scoring 21 points and grabbing 11 boards in 21 minutes in the gold medal game.

WNBA scoring leader Angel McCoughtry also stepped up to be a key player. Within her limited minutes on the court, she contributed at least 10ppg along with 2 steals. McCoughry stated
“I feel like I’m on top of the world right now, I’m so excited,” “I’ve got a gold medal, my first one. My name is not Angel McCoughtry. It’s Angel McCoughtry, Olympic gold medalist.” Other first-time gold medalists includes Tina Charles, Maya Moore, Lindsay Whalen, and Asjha Jones. Teresa Edwards, a five-time olympian and member of the 1996 gold medal USA team was there to show her support for the 2012 team, which she was very proud of. Within the next four years the team and the coaches may change, but with the heart and soul that these women have to represent our country will not. 2016 is going to be very interesting in Rio because the foundation is now laid for the future WNBA stars that will be representing the USA.

USA Women's Basketball Team Demolishes Angola

Team USA's women's basketball team is on a mission, for the gold that is. Today's game proved just that. They beat Angola by 52 points. Candace Parker led the team's victory with a double-double scoring 14 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Team USA is not focused so much on how many points they score because they know that they are still a work in progress considering that they have only been together two weeks. They also know that as the tournament continues, some games are going to be tough.Angola on the other hand is looking for their first win. They lost by 22 in their opener against Turkey. This means that the African nations has only won one game out of 25 since the 1996 Atlanta Olympic games when Congo first qualified.

Team Nigeria is the team that actually won the first game, which was against Korea. Angola was only able to stay close to USA only in the first quarter trailing by 10. USA then took the game by storm by leading in the second quarter and continue to prevent Angola's chances of catching up in the second half. Despite the score of the game, USA Coach Geno Auriemma having the good sportsmanship that a coach should have stated: "Angola's one of those countries you hope, because of what's happened with the U.S. and some other places in women's basketball, that other African countries pick up and say that could be us," Hopefully that's a country that becomes accustomed to playing in the Olympics. Hopefully they devote more energy and resources and they can come back to the Olympics on a regular basis".Up next for USA is Turkey who also has a 2-0 record.

Retired NFL Star Dorsey Levens premiers "Bell Rung" Documentary

Former Green Bay Packer Dorsey Levens, his production company Levens Communications, and the Atlanta Film Festival will be premiering the "Bell Rung" Documentary. "Bell Rung" uncovers the long-term emotional and physical damages caused by playing professional football. Many retired football players have been affected and are not able to tell their stories. Dorsey took it upon himself to help tell these stories by writing a documentary. Within the documentary, two-time pro bowler Takeo Spikes, former University of Georgia stand-out and three-time superbowl champion Richard Seymore, and NCAA and Superbowl title holder Jamal Lewis assist in telling stories themselves. Following the film, a discussion panel will be held for questions and concerns. The movie premier is August 7th, 2012 in Atlanta. Concussions are now an important subject when it comes to football because too many head injuries have occurred, or is occuring and it needs to be addressed and enforced properly to help save the lives of future draft and retired players.

Neil Reed, 1997 Choke Victim of Bob Knight Dies At The Age Of 36

Neil Reed was mostly remembered by the incident that happened in the 1997 season for the Indiana Hoosiers. He was chocked by Bob Knight during a practice almost at the end of his Junior year. Reed went on to finish his college career at Southern Mississippi. Yesterday, it was stated by a fellow faculty member that he had difficulty breathing and he was taken to an area hospital where he went into cardiac arrest and could not be saved.Reed leaves behind two daughters, four and six years old and a legacy I am pretty sure, at a Central California high school where he coached football and golf. It's good that he managed to move on and lead a quiet life still managing to live out his dreams in spite of the controversy following the Bob Knight incident which caused him to get fired in the year of 2000. He is gone too soon, but will never be forgotten.

Knicks Trade "Linsanity", Now He's A Rocket

The New York Knicks decided not to match the offer sheet that was signed b Jeremy Lin for the Houston Rockets. New York decided not to bring Lin back because owner James Dolan felt deceived and betrayed by Jeremy agreeing to a three-year deal that was restructured. That deal was worth $25.1 million dollars. It also would have been more finacially onerous for the Knicks to even match than the four-year $28.8 million given by Houston even though the Knicks stated that they would match it.

Jeremy Lin then sat down and interviewed with Sports Illustrated's Pablo S. Torre. In the beginning of the interview, Lin stated that he preferred New York. It was hard for Torre to choose a subject to speak on considering that there were quite a few to touch on. The subjects were: New York's brass only speaking to Lin and his reps only once before the brief phone call made by the General Manager informing of the decision, the Knicks had publicly represented Lin's return was all but assured, and the Head Coach Mike Woodson stating that Lin was the starting point guard. With that being said, it seems that Lin didn't have much of a choice when Houston tendered their offer sheet.

Lin also shuts down the rumors that "he has been all about the money since he burst into Broadway" which was stated by ESPN's Steven A. Smith and the statement by Isola who called him out because he did not play in Game 5 against the Miami Heat in the first round after undergiong knee surgery and which he had estmated himself at being 85 percent.  After quickly brushing off the financial talk, Lin quickly stated to Torres "If I really wanted to, I could have triple-digit endorsements," He then got back on the subject of Game 5 stating how ever vet on the team told him that he should not play and that he argued with them on why he should. He then stated that the Owner James Dolan was being nice to him telling him that he has plans in the future, he's a long-term investment, and that he did not need to rush back. In the end, Jeremy is moving on and he will ALWAYS remember how the New York fans embrassed him throughout his short stay. No matter where he goes and where his career will end, the Knicks fans will always have a part of him.

Drew Brees....$100 Million Dollar Man

Today New Orleans Saints Quarterback Drew Brees put his pen to work by signing autographs on items to the contract extension that he sighned for the Saints. This past Friday he verbally agreed to it and then he sealed the deal by signing his famous signature. The extension is for five years which he will get paid $20 million a year. After the signing, Brees stated: "It's been a little surreal just because of the process throughout the offseason, and just how challenging an offseason it's been for everyone, obviously everyone within the Saints organization, this city. It's just been a crazy offseason and I think we're all just ready to get back to work and excited that it's all starting here in a week. It's hard to believe."

Brees of course stayed busy training in the off season in California. He has also maintained contact with his teammates and assistant head coach Joe Vitt. Vitt is stepping up to take over and handle things since head coach Sean Payton is suspended for this NFL season for the bounty investigation. Brees also stated that teammates were texting him all the time, so again, the Saints were in constant communication. Now that training camp starts on July 24th I am pretty sure that the Saints have put last season behind them and they are ready to get back on the field. With the same offensive system for the past six years, and a new defensive system I am sure that the fans of Who Dat Nation is eager to see what their team has in store. Stay tuned.......

The Nets Aquire Joe Johnson Are Still In The Running For Dwight Howard

On Monday, the Atlanta Hawks traded their cash machine Joe Johnson to the Brooklyn Nets. It does not count them out of getting Dwight Howard even though the Mavericks are also stepping to the plate to get him. The Nets now have to come with a very creative salary cap which also includes Gerald Wallace who just recently signed with them. At first, Howard's preferred destination was Dallas since the Nets have Johnson. Let's stay tuned on what his final decision may be.....I am pretty sure that it is a nailbiter for both teams. Who wouldn't want Dwight Howard.

Over & Betond Basketball, LLC's First Annual Ball-N-BBQ 3-on-3 Tournament July 14th

Over & Beyond Basketball, LLC will be hosting its first annual Ball-N-BBQ 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament on Saturday July 14th from 12pm-6pm at Ebster Park located at 404 W. Trinity Place Decatur, GA 30030. This event will precede the youth basketball summer camp held by Over & Beyond Basketball, LLC the same week from July 9th - 13th. The Ball-N-BBQ creates a chance for the organization along with the community to give back and improve awareness for our youth. With that said, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Decatur Education Foundation. Please see information below for more detail.

Ball-n-BBQ

3-on-3

Basketball Tournament

Presented by

Over and Beyond Basketball, LLC

Saturday, July 14, 2012

Ebster Park, Decatur, GA

Portion of the proceeds to benefit

Decatur Education Foundation

Entrance Fee

Division I (18-29 men and women) - $75.00

Division II (30 & over men and women) - $75.00

Division III (13-17 boys and girls) - $50.00

3 Players per team required- 4 players max.

Single Elimination Tournament

*ROSTERS MUST BE SUBMITTED BY June 29*

*Trophies awarded to 1^st Place Teams*

For more info, contact Omar Collington at (404) 771-6471 or V.I. Tyrell at (678) 775-8274 or

email: overandbeyondbball@yahoo.com

Over & Beyond Basketball Youth Summer Basketball Camp July 9th - July 13th

Omar Collington, Decatur native, former professional basketball player abroad, and former Assistant Decatur High School Basketball Coach is reaching out to the youth in and surrounding areas of Decatur to teach them basketball techniques, strategies, and how to balance the sport of basketball with life.

The vision of Over & Beyond Basketball is designed to use basketball as a platform to teach life lessons in molding young men and women as well-rounded individuals through perseverance and overcoming adversity. The mission is to develop every student-athlete into realizing their full potential athletically and academically.With that said, Omar Collington is looking for boys and girls ages 8-14 to sign up for the basketball summer camp starting on Monday July 9th - Friday July 13th. Registration deadline is today, but parents can call and reserve their child as a walk-in. For information rgarding time, place, and price please see the flyer provided below. Kids this will be one of the highlights of your summer!!!!

College Football Finally Has "Playoffs"

A four - team playoff series has been approved by a presidential oversight committee today. This change will begin in 2014 and will continue until 2025. The four teams in the playoffs will be chosen by a selection committee. The semi-finals will be held at the current bowl sites and the national championship will be awarded to the highest bidder. The Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick gave the presented the proposal in front of a board of 12 university presidents and in less than three hours later, there was an agreement to have college playoffs!

As the decision was made, the group of presidents endorsed a rotation for the semi-final games among the six bowl sites and the championships games among the neutral sites. The semi-finals will be played on either New Year's Eve or on New Year's Day. The title game will be played the first Monday in January which is referred to as " Championship Monday". There will be three contract bowls. The Champions Bowl, which is a partnership between the Big 12 and SEC. The Rose Bowl, which has a longstanding tradition between the Big Ten and Pac 12, and a bowl to be determined for the ACC. which is more likely to continue its partnership with the Orange Bowl.

According to ACC Commissioner John Swofford, they will have an announcement on their contract bowl and New Year's Day tie-in. The three other bowl which are called the "access bowls" have yet to be determined. This will force the Sugar and Fiesta Bowls to become bidders. The decision made today possibly could squeeze the Big East out of the postseason as its champion is no longer guaranteed a spot in one of the six major bowls. The "automatic qualifiers" label also will disappear in the new system and those programs will have no guaranteed access to the new structure. Bob Bowlsby, the  Big 12 commissioner called it an "open marketplace for all schools."

The Mountain West Conference did not receive a waiver to qualify fot the next two years. Wright Waters, the Football Bowl Association director stated "Today is the beginning of an exciting time in the future of college football and we are committed to continuing the rich tradition of the bowls." The championship game will not be branded as a bowl game and it will be managed by the conferences. The presidents also selected a committee that will rank the teams to play in the playoffs. Two main topics still needs further discussion on how teams will be selected and how revenue will be distributed. The commissioners have agreed in principle as to how the revenue will be divided, according to Big Ten commissioner Jim Delany. That has not been made public yet. The commissioners also still need to decide a name for the playoff.The decision is subject to passage of the appropriate legislation by the NCAA Board of Directors to permit the two semifinal winners to play an additional postseason game. Swofford called it a "milestone" for college football.

Cordell Broadus, Snoop Dogg's Son Lands Football Scholarship From UCLA

Just a sophmore in high school, Cordell's skills on the field already landing him scholarships. He is a defensive back and wide receiver for Diamond Bar (California) High School. According to the NFP (National Football Post) and ESPNLA, Jim Mora Jr. looked over the fact that he only played one year in high school. Cordell is already 6-foot-2, 185 pounds. It is said that he has a body which could develop into that of a legitimate Division I prospect, but who knows whether he'll continue to grow?

Accrding to Cameron Smith for Prep Rally, it is hard to believe that Mora is offering a scholarship to him for a large part of PR benefits. He also states that "Snoop Dogg officially claims to be a USC fan, so snapping up a commitment from his son could give the school requisite street cred and offer a certain buzz to a program which sorely needs just such a jolt of excitement." Diamond Bar's head coach even agrees that Cordell Broadus is a wise move for the Bruins.

The Diamond Bar's Ryan Maine stated to ESPNLA "We're expecting him to really lead us the next three years," after he first tweeted the news. Maine also stated ""Hopefully [our athletes] get bigger, stronger and keep leading this team." Cordell Broadus stated during his interview with ESPNLA "The move was difficult when it first happened, meeting new friends and a new team," Broadus said. "It's been good ever since. The competition level at Long Beach Poly is a whole lot different than it is down here, but I've learned that it's all on me and how hard I work." I am pretty sure for the next three years there will be more news and updates from this rising foootball star.

Oklahoama City Thunder Has Some Of The Most Loyal Fans

Upon their mid-day arrival from Miami on Friday, the Oklahoma City Thunder were greeted by thousands of fans showing their appreciation for a great season. Players took turns on the mic thanking fans as they were taken by surprise. As Sixth Man of The Year James Harden took the mic he stated ''I don't think any other NBA team has the support that we have, and it means a lot to us,''  ''I know my teammates are definitely appreciative of you guys. Again, thank you." ''Next year, we'll be back in that situation and we're going to bring a championship here.''

Many of the players apologized to the fans for not bringing the series back home. The Thunder has come a long way within the four years they have been in Oklahoma. That is all the fans need in order to show them that they are a huge part of that city. In the off season, there will be difficult decisions made involving James Harden and Serge Ibaka who is entering their final year with the Thunder. On another note, the line-up remains the same. I am pretty sure like any other team in the league, OKC will work hard to make sure that their fans will have the big championship parade next year.

Miami Heat Are The 2012 NBA Champions!

Last night Lebron James finally got a championship ring after nine hard-fought years in the league. His critics can now cut him some slack. He had to do what was best for him if he wanted to continue on that road to a championship. He knew that his time was up in Cleveland.
"I'm happy now that eight years later, nine years later since I've been drafted, that I can finally say that I'm a champion, and I did it the right way," James said. "I didn't shortcut anything. You know, I put a lot of hard work and dedication in it, and hard work pays off. It's a great moment for myself.".

The Oklahoma City Thunder played a wonderful series. To be as young as they are and make it to the NBA Finals is beyond a success story. They are just inexperienced when it come to a series such as the finals. I know that in the years to come, they are going to be a force to be reckoned with because those boys are going to be together for years to come especially if Harden and Ibaka choose to extend their contracts. "It hurts, man," Durant said. "We're all brothers on this team, and it just hurts to go out like this. We made it to the Finals, which was cool for us, but we didn't want to just make it there. Unfortunately we lost, so it's tough." They just hit 3s after 3s. They got it going and we couldn't stop them," Kendrick Perkins said. "Things just didn't go our way." LeBron James also got the Bill Russell MVP Award with becoming the fith player to have a triple-double in a championship game.

Recent Interview Makes NBA Commissioner David Stern Upset

Jim Rome struck a nerve when he recently interviewed NBA Commissioner David Stern. Rome stated that he "thought he was asking a softball question" when he asked the Commissioner about the NBA Draft Lottery. He asked Stern whether the lottery was fixed because the New Orleans Hornets was just recently sold to the Saints owner Tom Benson, and they won the number one draft pick which is more than likely Kentucky's Anthony Davis. After the question was asked, Stern informed him that it wasn't and a debate took place after the legitimacy of the question. Stern then responede with "Have you stopped beating your wife?". Jim Rome later stated on his television show that he asked the question for the sake of the fans that didn't understand why New Orleans won the draft pick.

The Atlanta Dream "Sparks" Past Los Angeles

Angel McCoughtry scored 31 of the 92 points last night in the victory against the LA Sparks. Being held out of the starting lineup didn't seem to take effect at all. Atlanta snapped LA's five game winning streak with this game. Lindsey Harding (18 points) and Sancho Lyttle (13 points) both scored double figures, and Anieka Henry grabbed nine rebounds to help Atlanta skate pass the Sparks.

On the other hand, the Sparks did not have a player in double figures until the WNBA's number one draft pick Nneka Ogwumike scored her 11th point out of her 13. Sparks star Candace Parker was only held to nine points. The records now for each team is Atlanta (4-5) and Los Angeles (7-2). ``We need to come out with a lot of energy,'' Candace Parker stated. ``We can't start the way we did because it trickles down the rest of the game. We need to stay aggressive. I think our defense needs to dictate the way we play offensively and not vice versa.'' The Dream plays again at Philips Arena Sunday against the Connecticut Sun.

NBA Finals Is Tied 1-1

The series is now gone to South Beach. The LeBron James and Kevin Durant matchup has became one of the most intense since the Bird and Magic, and Jordan and Malone matchups. The Heat got away with the victory by only four points when Lebron James stopped Durant from tying the game. In games one and two, the Thunder has got off to a slow start and was able to pull off only one win out of the two. Game three will be Sunday night on ABC. I am pretty sure that the games preceding these are going to be nail biters!!! Durant and James both had 32 points in this game. I am pretty sure that the volume in the American Airlines Arena is going to be just as loud as it was in the Chesapeake Bay Arena in Oklahoma.

Chad Ochocinco Is "Back Home"

It has been confirmed that Chad Ochocinco has signed with the Miami Dolphins after working out with them. It is only a one year contract. It is believed that he may do a little better with the Dolphins than he did with the Patriots because they don't have a difficult system of option routes. Considering that Miami does not have that many wide receivers, it seems like Ochocinco may have some playing time. With his veteran expertise, I'm pretty sure the coach wouldn't mind. Well, we have just over 80 days left until football season starts. Let's see how he adapts to this team. Stay tuned......

Semi-Pro Football Team Mississippi Ironhorse Floats Past The Emerald Coast Scorpions This Past Weekend

I know football fans around the world are anticipating the kickoff of the NFL season. In the meantime, here is a team that will catch your interest and sure would have you wanting to know more about them. That is the Mississippi Ironhorse. Over the weekend, they defeated the visiting Emerald Coast Scorpions from Florida 38-14. Please check out this video from the game and stay tuned for more on this team.

 Miss. Ironhorse 38 Emerald Coast Scorpians(FL) 14

Ironhorse v Scorpians

www.youtube.com

MS Ironhorse vs Scorpians

The Patriots Release Chad Ochocinco

The New Englan Patriots released Wide Receiver Chad Ochocinco today after not being able to come to agreement with another team to trade him to. Last year, Ochocinco only had 15 catches and 276 yards. According to NFL.com, The Patriots' system require the wideouts to make split decisions based on the defense placed front of them. It requires them to be on the same page as Quarterback Tom Brady. Chad Ochocinco could never figure it out. He often lined up in the wrong places, a problem that has extended into this offseason. He still has plenty of time to contact another team. I wonder who will pick him up? Stay tuned because I am pretty sure there will be news for that soon.

Jacksonville, FL Natives Tim Tebow and Chipper Jones Partner To Open a D1 Training Facility In Orlando

Accoding to Around The League writer Marc Sessler, Chipper Jones interviewed with the Associated Press this week talking about Tebow saying "He's probably the most recognizable figure in America right now. We're from the same area in Jacksonville. I know he comes from a good family." "His faith is as strong as anybody you'll ever meet. And I don't even know him, you know? So that's my impression of him from afar. That being said, I'm a long-time loyal Gator, and he can do no wrong in my eyes." Tebow already co-owns a D1 Facility in Savannah. For all you Tebow fans in the Orlando, Tampa, FL area, he will be hosting a members only trainign event at the gym on June 24th!!!

Over and Beyond Basketball, LLC

The Over And Beyond Basketball Organization was founded by Decatur, Georgia native and former professional basketball player for the ABA, Omar Collington. His dreams began at the age of 13 when he realized that he was going down the wrong path. He put his focus on the game of basketball where he found a positive outlet, developed discipline, and an outstanding work ethic. Omar spent his high school years at Decatur High. During his senior year in 2002, he helped the Bulldogs obtain a winning record of 28-4. They were also the State Championship Runner-Ups that same year. Omar was also named to the 2nd All-State Georgia Team.

Receiving a four-year scholarship to the University of North Carolina-Asheville, Omar continued playing basketball. In 2006, he was named the UNC-A Most Valuable Player. Soon after college, he went on to have a five-year professional career in the American Basketball Association. In 2011, He was named the TV Ibbenburen International Tournament MVP. This tournament consisted of 17 teams that hailed from coountries such as Belgium, Holland, Germany, and Ghana. Now residing back in Decatur, GA, Omar wants to give back to the community by working with the youth showing them the aspects of life along with the fundamentals of basketball. The vision of the organization captures the essence of who they are and the mission is to instill in every student athlete a true sence of knowing how to compete to their full potential academically and athletically. Stay tuned for more on this organization.

NFL Dream Still Comes True For Convicted California High School Star

Back in 2002, California High School football star Brian Banks was accused of raping and kidnapping a classmate. Throughout his 62 months in prison and five years of probation registered as a sex offender, he never lost hope. He served time because he took the advice of his former attorney stating: "Your'e a big black teenager, they're going to assume your'e guilty." Before the conviction, his skills caught the interests of  Ohio State, Michigan, and USC.

Just last week, Banks was vindicated because he was able to present evidence of the alleged accuser  on video admitting that he never raped her. Now his prayers have been answered. He is getting ready to work out with as many as four NFL teams. He is scheduled to work out with the Seattle Seahawks on June 7th. The Redskins, Dolphins, and Chiefs have also took interest in him. At the tender age of 26, he is still young, skilled, and ready for the football field. Banks is also the definition of a humble guy. He stated that he never had any grudge or harsh feelings towards his accuser and matter of fact, he has forgave her.  His main focus was his dream to be in the NFL. Here is a prime example, dreams do come true!!!!

Semi-Pro Football This Weekend In Mississippi!!!

THE MISSISSIPPI IRONHORSE (PIKE COUNTY) VS TRI-COUNTY HEROES (LINCOLN COUNTY) SEMI PRO FOOTBALLTHIS SAT JUNE 2ND 7PM AT BROOKHAVEN HIGH SCHOOL.THIS IS A BIG TIME RIVALRY! MAKE PLANS TO COME SUPPORT THIS GAME FOR EITHER TEAM. FOR IRONHORSE NATION, BRING YOUR COW BELLS AND AIRHORNS TO MAKE THIS GAME LIVE!!! STAY TUNED FOR MORE ON THIS GAME......

The West Virginia Drive AAU 8th Grade Girls

Champions at the 3rd Annual Huntington Classic at Marshall University in Huntington, WV May 18th-20th 2012

Team: Karlee, Dazha, Haley, Summer, Erica, Kaylee, Nae-Nae, and  Abby

Coaches: Curry Hagerty and Tammy Alderman

Romo and Cowboys' Owner Jerry Jones Do Not See Eye To Eye

Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones feels that the window to win another superbowl is closing. He thinks so because several of their players including Romo, Witten, and Ware are getting older. He feels like the time is now to go out and compete to their full capacity on the field because there may not be another superbowl run. Tony Romo on the otherhand, feels different. He feels like age has nothing to do with it. He thinks that it is the same every year that you come out to play whether you are a rookie or a veteran. The Cowboys is a team that has a love/hate relationship with America now. Back in the Emmit Smith, Troy Aikman, and Michael Irving era, they were the "it" team. Now that football season is approaching, let's see who's point is correct. Stay tuned.......

Attention Braves Fans !!!!.....

Meet Braves legend Javy Lopez this Saturday, May 26th, at the Braves Clubhouse Store at CNN Center. He'll be signing his book, Behind The Plate, from 2-3PM!

Don't miss out!!!!!!

WV Drive 8th Grade Girls Takes Over Huntington Classic Tournament

Over the weekend at the Huntington Classic held at Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia, The West Virginia Drive AAU 8th grade girls from Barboursville, WV were 4-0. On Saturday they played two games which if they won, they would have to come back on Sunday and play for the championship. Winning is what they did. In game one, they played SO Magic and the score was 54-19. In game two, they played the Ohio Knights and that score was 67-8.

Sunday in the semi-finals, they had to play the Rising Stars from Charleston, West Virginia. The score of that game was 44-24 which WV Drive won and they moved on to the championship game later on that day. In that game, they played the WV Thunder and that score was 46-27. On that note, the girls took home the championship! All teams that participated in the tournament did a great job and these girls play their hearts out. All of their future in the game of basketball is bright especially if they stick to it. These tournaments held by the Girls' Basketball Association is just as good as watching a WNBA or NCAA Women's college basketball game! Keep up the good work girls! Stay tuned.....

Saints Linebacker Sues NFL Commissioner For Suspension

Veteran Saints Linebacker Jonathan Vilma sues Commissioner Roger Goodell for making false statements, ruining his reputation, and hindering his livlihood. The claim states that Goodell relied on circumstantial evidence, hearsay, and lies regarding the comments that he made about Vilma in the discussions of the NFL's bounty investigation of the New Orleans Saints. The Commissioner has stated that Vilma was the leader of the bounty team and that he has put up thousands of dollars for the hits that took out the opposing teams' star players from 2009, which was Superbowl year all the way until 2011. There were $10,000 payments for each hit on then quarterbacks Kurt Warner of the Arizona Cardinals and Brett Favre or the Minnisotta Vikings in the playoffs of 2010.

Vilmer's filing has not been reviewed yet according to NFL Spokesperson Greg Aiello. He also stated that their main consideration is their committment to the integrity of the game and player safety. He also stated that they realize that everyone is not going to agree with the decisions that they have made. The NFL also hired former federal prosecutor Mary Jo White late last year to review the evidence provided in the case. She states that the evidence is corroborated by documentation as well as independent witnesses. The lawsuit is expected to be heard by Judge Ginger Berrigan. Vilma is asking for unspecified monetary damages, punitive damages, and attorneys fees. Stay tuned for more on this story.

For The Horseracing Fans

I'll Have Another is the name of the top horse today. Yesterday he won the Preakness Stakes at the Pimlico Race Course after winning the Kentucky Derby a couple of weeks ago. In this race Bodemeister was the horse that he beat, so this was a replay of the derby. The Belmont Stakes Race is in three weeks. If he wins that one, he will be in the same category as Secretariat, Seattle Slew and Affirmed. In 1978, they were the last to win the most coveted prize in thoroughbred racings. This would be a great accomplishment for a horse that's only three years old.

GBA Basketball Association

A tournament held in Cambridge Ohio in 2002 led to the creation of the Girls Basketball Association. Within the ten years, they have grown to be the largest girls basketball association in the mid-west. Tne GBA host tournaments all over the states of Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Their goal is to provide girls starting at the age of nine and up basketball skills throughout the spring and summer. The GBA is known for providing family - friendly tournaments which attracts teams from different states including Canada to participate.

Since 2003, the GBA has become one of the top associations for girls basketball. They now run tournaments every weekend from the month of March until June. Most weekends have between 170 to 200 teams playing throughout Ohio, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. The season ends with a yearly national tournament held in Cincinnati, Ohio. The tournament is for four days which is fun for the whole family fhat includes a day at the King's Island Amusement Park. If you have not experienced a tournament in the GBA, I highly recommend that you go see one. These girls are so amazing! It makes you feel like you are watching future college and WNBA players. If you are in the states of Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania and would like your team to participate, please refer to the website which is www.gbabasketball.com for further information. They are holding the 3rd annual Huntington Classic this weekend at Marshall University. Go check it out!!! Stay tuned for more updates.

Miami Heat Cancels Practice And Media Appearance

May 18, 2012

The Miami Heat cancelled their practice and media appearance today. After game three's loss, the Heat team just seem to spiral out of control. They now have their backs against the wall because of course they were the team that was chosen to win this series anyways. Indiana says otherwise and they are showing it! They have Miami on their toes! Hopefully Wade, Lebron, and company can regroup with this much needed day off because if not, this series can have a serious turn around. Right now Indiana is just playing their game and not even letting so much hype get to them like Miami. Maybe that's what it is, LeBron and D Wade have so much pressure on them that it is taking control and they are losing focus on their game. Game four is tomorrow so let's stay tuned and see if Miami can get it together before it's too late. Stay tuned.......

Age Ain't Nothing But A Number For The Celtics

May 18, 2012

In last night's game, KG, Pierce, Rondo and the Celtics proved once again why they are one of the beasts of the east. Regardless of how old they are, their talents are still there so why not use them. Besides, there is no age limit to retire in the NBA. It is up to the players on how long they want to play.The big three all had double-doubles in the game. Garnett had 27 points and 13 rebounds, Pierce had 24 points and 12 rebounds, and Rondo had 23 points and 14 assists.

Philly came out ready to play also, but it seems like it was only for the first quarter. Once Kevin Garnett got started, it went down hill for the Sixers. You cannot let up on a team like the Celtics regardless of their age. They are also an experienced championship team that is looking for another banner to raise. Game four is on Friday and now Philly has to come up with a game plan that will match the Celtics. They are only four games into the series, it is too early to let up on a team that is not easy to beat. Philly better play like they want this series especially at home or it will be Boston who will definately be waiting for the opponent in the Eastern Conference Finals.

O-K-C!!!!!!

May 18, 2012

In last nght's game against the Lakers, OKC fans in the arena and around the world were on pins and needles until the last two minutes of the game until their big three came to the rescue with their defense and scoring the baskets that they needed in order to win the game by two. The Lakers did have a chance to tie the series, but Steve Blake missed a wide open three pointer with five seconds left in the game. The ball of course was intended for Bryant, but the defense of the Thunder did not let that happen.

Game three is at the Staples Center on Friday. The Lakers' backs are now against the wall, but they are an experienced veteran team and will bounce back from the 2-0 deficit. I now say that this is where the series is about to get good! Kobe Bryant is not going to give up that easy. He's trying to championship number six like the great Michael Jordan. Gasol and Bynum I am pretty sure are having more side meetings to themselves like they did at the end of game one when they lost by 29. This makes a 9-0 playoff run for the Thunder. Look for this to be an adrenaline rush for both teams and fans! Stay tuned.....

Hey Ladies Here Is A New Accessory To Add To The Collection

May 18, 2012
Hey ladies we can NEVER have too many purses right? For all you sports fans who have a favorite team in the NCAA there is a website where you can order a purse with the logo of your favorite team! These purses will make great presents and most of all, fashion statements!

Check out these NCAA team purses -> http://bit.ly/ncaa_purse

(all teams available)

 

Lets add to those collections ladies!!!!

The Atlanta Falcons Rookies and Social Media

May 17, 2012


The rookies of the Atlanta Falcons are listening to our presentation on Facebook and Twitter. They are now learning how social media plays a big part in their fans' lives. If you are a Falcons fan get on facebook, like their page and take part in liking and commenting on the picture. This shoud be fun! I am pretty sure that they would appreciate it. #GOFALCONS

Braves Fans....

SHARE this to wish John Smoltz a happy birthday! Be a part of Braves history as his No. 29 is retired on June 8. http://atmlb.com/JFFwDQ

Derrick Rose Update:

May 15, 2012

For all the Derrick Rose fans around the world, his surgery on his torn ACL was successful!! The surgery took place on May 12, 2012 in Chicago. He can now work toward a full recovery considering that the season starts in October. I am pretty sure that there will be no rush in getting him back on the court once the season starts, but at least he will have five months of recovery and therapy under his belt.
Stay tuned for more on this story.

Atlanta Braves Update

May 14, 2012

Seems like over the weekend, the Atlanta Braves went to St. Louis and got their revenge. They swept the series with a 3-0  record.  The scores goes as follows: game 1 - 9 to 7, game 2 - 7 to 2, and game 3 - 7 to 4. Their record is now 22-13. They go on to play the Cincinnati Reds tonight at 7:15. Let;s see how this series goes? Good luck to both teams.

Clipper Nation!!!

May 14, 2012

The Los Angeles Clippers fans have something to celebrate. The Clippers made it to only their third playoff series in 41 years! This NBA season told different story once they added point guard Chris Paul to the roster. In Sunday's game, the Clippers' bench came out with a game plan during the fourth quarter that was led by veteran Kenyon Martin. He scored seven of his 11 points. They made quick shots, scored off of Memphis turnovers, and had good defense. Now it is time to move on and play San Antonio on Tuesday. I am pretty sure that the city of Los Angeles now have plenty to celebrate considering that both franchises are in the semi-finals of the playoffs! Congradulations to both teams. Stay tuned for more updates throughout the playoffs!

Lakers Sweep Past The Nuggets In First Round

The Nuggets played a hard fought game seven, but the Lakers move to the second round. Despite all of the controversial comments about the 'Big Two" not stepping up in game six and Majic Johnson saying that if the Lakers didn't win Mike Brown would be fired, they pulled it off anyway. Pau Gasol stepped up with 23 points and 17 rebounds, Metta World-Peace added 15 points, Andrew Bynum had 16 points and 18 rebounds, Kobe Bryant only had 17 points, and last Steve Blake had a career-high with 19 points. The Lakers head out to Oklahoma City for game one on Monday. This is going to be an intense series!!!! Stay tuned.....

Atlanta Braves Are Looking To Sweep The St. Louis Cardinals

Today, (May 13, 2012) the Atlanta Braves are looking to sweep the series against the St. Louis Cardinals. The Braves are looking for payback after losing seven straight games at Busch Park dating all the way back to 2009. Now taking it back to last year, the Braves lost to the Cardinals in three crucial games that caused them to miss the playoffs and the Cardinals go on to win the World Series. A good game is underway! Stay tuned.....

Boston Takes Game 1

Game one for the Boston/Philly series was of coarse a nailbiter! Philly never trailed the Celtics in the first half, but things changed in the second. Trailing by 13, Boston's defense brought them back in the game by going on a 23-7 run. Boston had a different version of the "Big Three" that came through to help them gain homecourt advantage in this series. It was Garnett with 29 points, Pierce with 14 points, and instead of Allen, Rondo made his mark with his eighth triple-double with 13 points, 12 rebounds, and 17 assists.

Both LA Teams Are Forced To A Game 7

In this year's NBA Playoffs, both LA teams are forced to play a game 7. With the Lakers losing to Denver 113-97 on Thursday and the Clippers losing Friday with the final score being 90-88 who's going to advance to the next round? Either way it goes, whomever advances out of these four teams will play a WELL RESTED #1 or #2 seeded team who is on a championship run! Good luck to all four teams in today and tomorrow's game 7's. I know that they will be nail biters!!!

The Atlanta Dream

Greetings Atlanta Fans!!! I have some great news for you. Your very own Atlanta Dream will be kicking off their season on May 25, 2012. They will be playing the New York Liberty @ 7:30pm at the Philips Arena. To add more great news, the team has kept the starting five players that has helped bring the eastern conference championship to Atlanta for the past two years. These ladies truly believe that the third time will be a charm. They are ready for another championship run!!! Fans fasten your seatbelts and get ready for the ride!!!! Stay tuned for more news to come.

The McComb Ravens

Now it's time to take it to the little league! The Southern Mississippi McComb Ravens 8u are ranked # 16 in the whole nation. Their regular season record in the TNT Youth Football League was 7-3. Another major accomplishment achieved by the Ravens this year was them defeating an undefeated team with a 16-0 record. That team is the Ferriday Trojans who is ranked #10 in the nation. In 2011, the Ravens finished as the runner-up in the Louisiana State Youth Football Tournament which was held in Monroe, LA. In January 2012, the Ravens took home the first-place trophy in the Alamo City International Tournament in San Antonio, TX. The tournament record was 3-0 averaging 23 ppg.  Giving up 4 ppg in the regular season, the Ravens tallied up 18ppg, and gave up 6 ppg. For more on this team, please check out the link below. Stay tuned, there is more to come!

McComb's TNT Raven High Lights 2012.avi

www.youtube.com

"Money" Mayweather makes his money!!!

HBO sports reported that last Saturday's PPV between Mayweather and Cotto ranked in a whopping $94 million dollars thanks to the 1.5 million viewers who ordered it. This comes second to the 2007 match held between Mayweather and De La Hoya, which holds the number one spot for revenue. That fight grossed $137 million dollars. That was the most ever grossed for a non heavyweight championship. For more on this story you can log onto http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/7919965/floyd-mayweather-miguel-cotto-rakes-94m-ppv-sales

Public Service for The Great Junior Seau

Fans were able to pay their respects to the GREAT Junior Seau at the Qualcomm Stadium where his NFL career actually began. The Great John Elway, Peyton Manning, and Coach John Fox was in attendance. Seau will be greatly missed by the NFL family and fans. He will always be remembered and will go down in history as one of the greatest linebackers in the NFL! For more on this story you can go to http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7920717/private-funeral-held-former-san-diego-charger-junior-seau.

MVP win # 3 for LeBron James

Out of the top  candidates for the MVP award, LeBron James wins. The other candidates included Kevin Durant, Tony Parker, and of course Kobe Bryant.just to name a few. This will be his third trophy in four years. The trophy is well deserved, but I thought that it was a close call. The other candidates were well deserved in getting nominated. Congradulations LeBron!

Hines Ward

Hines Ward got a standing ovation from the Pittsburgh Pirates as he threw the first pitch at last night's game!! I bet you that it was a sight to see especially for the city of Pittsburgh. To see the full story go to www.steelers.com/article-1/Ward-takes-the-mound-at-Pirates-game

The Lakers' "Two Bigs"

The Nuggets have surprised the non-believers by forcing a game 7 in Los Angeles on Saturday. Bryant and Coach Brown both agree that Bynum and Gasol didn't play their best in the 113-96 loss. It seems like a lot of pressure is on those two for the do or die game! Do you think Denver can pull it off? or will the Laker's take it?

The Charlotte Bobcats

According to yahoo.com, The Charlotte Bobcats are looking at Patrick Ewing for a possible coaching position. Do you think that Patrick can come in and save them? What do you think?