Today's blog has nothing to to do with sports.
A week ago yesterday, I was at my day job when my co-worker noticed that I didn't look too well. Not in terms of attractiveness, but in terms of healthfulness. I admit that I haven't been my best lately, but then, who is? I just shrugged it off to fatigue (hadn't been sleeping either) and went to bed earlier than usual to catch up.
I wake up Friday to a flat tire. Terrific. After using the morning to address that, I was just not in the best of the customer service state of mind mentally.While I was planning to spend my day in quiet solitude, it was then that this thought entered my mind: "I should be with family today." While I'm as family as the next guy, I had never thought of it just like that.
After having lunch with my brother, I just spent the day at his house with him, his wife and one my nieces, who is a registered nurse. While hanging out, I was talkin about how I was not feeling my best lately. After describing some of the things that was going with me, my niece insisted that I get checked out. Even my brother's wife, who is all about personal decisions, got in my face like a head coach to a player and STRONGLY suggested that I should get checked out.
I guess this blog did have something to do with sports...kinda of.
It's here that I have to say that I'm not the type of dude that has a problem going to the doctor. I have periodic checkups and I'm a good patient. If I felt that something was really wrong, I would have went to the hospital.
When I got to the hospital, I was told that I had a temperature of more than 102 degrees. I didn't even know I had a temperature. Next thing I know, I'm being held overnight for observation and by Tuesday I had surgery to have an infectious abscess removed. While I'm not 100%, I'm feeling much better and hope to continue.
Things happen for a reason. I do not believe in coincidences. Sometimes it's good to get a different point of view. Espacally when that point of view is on another plain.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
Serenity
Usually I'm watching football games with my boyz on Sunday. Recently, these have been with Ravens fans. I generally get a liitle love from those that have the Ticket, so I still get my Skins fix as well.
Yesterday was a different story altogether for me. As the song goes, there was no Chris style yesterday. I stayed at home watching every play of the Skins division opener against the New York football Giants, who also happen to be the defending Super Bowl champions. I wanted to see every play and also see how my main man, rookie RG3, would do in the rough and rugged NFC East.
I told you early on that I was all-in on Robert Griffin. I felt that he was the real deal coming out of the gate and that we might actually have something at the quarterback position to build on. Yesterday, in his division opener, he did not disappoint.
He threw for 258 yards and ran for another 89 yards. I'm not going to say he made plays like Mike Vick, but rather he made plays like RG3. This included an incredible 4th down conversion from our side of the field late in the game in which he evades the entire Giant defensive line and throws a strike to Grant Paulsen for a first down. He then ran for 24 yards on the next play and two plays later threw a 30 yard TD pass to Santana Moss to give the Skins the lead with a little over 90 seconds to play.
However, the Giants have two-time Super Bowl winner Eli Manning and, as Stephen A. Smith would say, quite frankly that's all you need. On their first offensive play, he throws a perfect 77 yard pass to Victor Cruz to win the game for the Giants. It's here where I will admit that I like his TD salsa dance.
I know what you're thinking: What does all this have to do with serenity? Well for starters, this was the one of the more poorly played games played by the Skins offence. They gave up three sacks and committed four turnovers in the second half alone. Before yesterday's game, the Skins had committed five turnovers all season.
But guess what ? We still had a chance to win. Last year, this game would have been a blowout. Like BreezyG says, we now got RG3 and quite frankly, we are now not out of any game.
Yesterday was a different story altogether for me. As the song goes, there was no Chris style yesterday. I stayed at home watching every play of the Skins division opener against the New York football Giants, who also happen to be the defending Super Bowl champions. I wanted to see every play and also see how my main man, rookie RG3, would do in the rough and rugged NFC East.
I told you early on that I was all-in on Robert Griffin. I felt that he was the real deal coming out of the gate and that we might actually have something at the quarterback position to build on. Yesterday, in his division opener, he did not disappoint.
He threw for 258 yards and ran for another 89 yards. I'm not going to say he made plays like Mike Vick, but rather he made plays like RG3. This included an incredible 4th down conversion from our side of the field late in the game in which he evades the entire Giant defensive line and throws a strike to Grant Paulsen for a first down. He then ran for 24 yards on the next play and two plays later threw a 30 yard TD pass to Santana Moss to give the Skins the lead with a little over 90 seconds to play.
However, the Giants have two-time Super Bowl winner Eli Manning and, as Stephen A. Smith would say, quite frankly that's all you need. On their first offensive play, he throws a perfect 77 yard pass to Victor Cruz to win the game for the Giants. It's here where I will admit that I like his TD salsa dance.
I know what you're thinking: What does all this have to do with serenity? Well for starters, this was the one of the more poorly played games played by the Skins offence. They gave up three sacks and committed four turnovers in the second half alone. Before yesterday's game, the Skins had committed five turnovers all season.
But guess what ? We still had a chance to win. Last year, this game would have been a blowout. Like BreezyG says, we now got RG3 and quite frankly, we are now not out of any game.
Friday, October 12, 2012
Sudden Life
Game 5. It doesn't quite have the ring of Game 7, but tell that to the four teams that are trying to advance in this year's baseball playoffs. It's not the point that yesterday's games were great, but also the stories behind the teams.
It also reminded me of why I love this game.
In the American League, the Baltimore Orioles forced a game 5, seemingly by sheer will, with a 13th inning 2-1 win over the Yankees. Simply put, these guys have no quit in them. They could have easily folded their tent and called it a season after the Yanks had their own flair of the dramatic the previous night when Raul Ibanez, who pinch hit for the 29 million-dollar man superstar (?) Alex Rodriguez, hit both the game tying and game winning home runs for the Bronx Bombers. Instead, the Birds will face Yankees ace C.C. Sabathia who won game one of this series.
Meanwhile in the National League, my Washington Nationals almost turned me into the Mad Blogger after stinking up the joint in a seven hit 8-0 shutout in game three of our series against the defending champion St. Louis Cardinals. It was our first playoff game inside the city limits in almost eighty years. That didn't matter to Cards ace Chris Carpenter, who won his 10th game in the postseason (against two losses) by pitching six innings of shutout ball. The story behind the story is that this was only his fourth appearance this year. He had complicated surgery this year to cure numbness on his right side.
But in game four yesterday, it was good to see a investment in a player pay off as our own 126 million man, Jayson Werth (who won a title with the Phillies in 2008) hit a dramatic 9th inning walk-off homer to force our own game 5 today. It was his 14th postseason homerun since 2004, second only to Albert Pujols during that same span.
I'll take my chances today as the (real) ace of the staff, 21 game winner Gio Gonzalez, is up for us in today's game five.
To take a phrase from our Bird brethren, " Ain't the beer cold".
It also reminded me of why I love this game.
In the American League, the Baltimore Orioles forced a game 5, seemingly by sheer will, with a 13th inning 2-1 win over the Yankees. Simply put, these guys have no quit in them. They could have easily folded their tent and called it a season after the Yanks had their own flair of the dramatic the previous night when Raul Ibanez, who pinch hit for the 29 million-dollar man superstar (?) Alex Rodriguez, hit both the game tying and game winning home runs for the Bronx Bombers. Instead, the Birds will face Yankees ace C.C. Sabathia who won game one of this series.
Meanwhile in the National League, my Washington Nationals almost turned me into the Mad Blogger after stinking up the joint in a seven hit 8-0 shutout in game three of our series against the defending champion St. Louis Cardinals. It was our first playoff game inside the city limits in almost eighty years. That didn't matter to Cards ace Chris Carpenter, who won his 10th game in the postseason (against two losses) by pitching six innings of shutout ball. The story behind the story is that this was only his fourth appearance this year. He had complicated surgery this year to cure numbness on his right side.
But in game four yesterday, it was good to see a investment in a player pay off as our own 126 million man, Jayson Werth (who won a title with the Phillies in 2008) hit a dramatic 9th inning walk-off homer to force our own game 5 today. It was his 14th postseason homerun since 2004, second only to Albert Pujols during that same span.
I'll take my chances today as the (real) ace of the staff, 21 game winner Gio Gonzalez, is up for us in today's game five.
To take a phrase from our Bird brethren, " Ain't the beer cold".
Monday, September 24, 2012
Family
As much as I love football, I try very hard to keep the perspective that it is just a game. In the big picture, football is just a form of entertainment that people enjoy. People use it as a form of escape from the rough day-to-day that we all deal with.
Maybe that's what was on the mind of Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith. He had found out early yesterday morning that his younger brother, Tevin Jones, had been killed in a motorcycle accident. For Smith, this sudden death was new territory:"...I never really had to deal with a death in the family, let alone my brother. In our family, everyone's so tight. Just like a lot of other families." Smith was a father figure to his six younger siblings growing up, helping them get ready for school while his mother both attended school and worked.
While it would have understandable for Smith to miss the game, he didn't. He contacted head coach John Harbaugh and told him that he wanted to play in last night's game against the New England Patriots. "I texted my mom when I got to the stadium. That was when I knew I was going to play," Smith said. "She was excited about it. She said, `He'd want you to play.'"
"He'd want you to play."
Maybe that's what was on the mind of Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith. He had found out early yesterday morning that his younger brother, Tevin Jones, had been killed in a motorcycle accident. For Smith, this sudden death was new territory:"...I never really had to deal with a death in the family, let alone my brother. In our family, everyone's so tight. Just like a lot of other families." Smith was a father figure to his six younger siblings growing up, helping them get ready for school while his mother both attended school and worked.
While it would have understandable for Smith to miss the game, he didn't. He contacted head coach John Harbaugh and told him that he wanted to play in last night's game against the New England Patriots. "I texted my mom when I got to the stadium. That was when I knew I was going to play," Smith said. "She was excited about it. She said, `He'd want you to play.'"
"He'd want you to play."
Friday, September 21, 2012
Step One
To win a major sports championship, the first step is to qualify for the playoffs. For the first time in almost eight decades, a Washington D.C. major league baseball team is in the conversation. The Washington Nationals make the post season for the first time since 1933. Excuse me for saying this but...wow.
The Nats are on pace to win 99 games for the season. If they reach that mark, they will have a .600 winning percentage for the year, which is a big deal in baseball. In the past 50 years, seven current franchises have never won 98 and six others have only had one such .600 season. That’s 13 teams, or nearly half the entire sport. They have given up the fewest earned runs per game (ERA) for the season and are second in the National League in home runs.
For me, the difference has been the should-be-the-manager of the year Davey Johnson. Having the right manager can make all the difference in the world. Ask last year's champs, the Cardinals, who won 90 games with future Hall-of-Famer Tony LaRussa last year.
Next step for my dream World Series matchup are the Orioles, who are still in the hunt for their own playoff spot. The Birds, who have won seven of their last ten, go to Boston this weekend hoping to keep pace.
The dream continues.
The Nats are on pace to win 99 games for the season. If they reach that mark, they will have a .600 winning percentage for the year, which is a big deal in baseball. In the past 50 years, seven current franchises have never won 98 and six others have only had one such .600 season. That’s 13 teams, or nearly half the entire sport. They have given up the fewest earned runs per game (ERA) for the season and are second in the National League in home runs.
For me, the difference has been the should-be-the-manager of the year Davey Johnson. Having the right manager can make all the difference in the world. Ask last year's champs, the Cardinals, who won 90 games with future Hall-of-Famer Tony LaRussa last year.
Next step for my dream World Series matchup are the Orioles, who are still in the hunt for their own playoff spot. The Birds, who have won seven of their last ten, go to Boston this weekend hoping to keep pace.
The dream continues.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Weightism
Back in the 80's, the show Saturday Night Live had a skit that was about actor Fernando Lamas saying that "it was better to look good than to feel good." The skit emphasized that performance played a back seat to looks. I know that Shakespeare said that the whole world is a stage and we are just actors playing a part, but sometimes society takes it a bit too far.
Taylor Townsend is a 16 year old tennis player who just happens to be the best junior tennis player in the world. In her brief career, she has already won the Jr. Australian Open singles title and has won three Grand Slam events both in singles and doubles.
And, according to the U.S. Tennis Association, Taylor Townsend also has a weight problem. So much of a problem that her USTA coaches would not pay for her travel to the recent U.S. Open Tournament in New York. Before this year's Open, Taylor asked the USTA for a wild-card entry slot in either the Open's main draw or its qualifying tournament, which Taylor had played in last year. Her requests were denied. "Our concern is her long-term health, number one, and her long-term development as a player," said Patrick McEnroe, the general manager of the USTA's player development program. "We have one goal in mind: For her to be playing in [Arthur Ashe Stadium] in the main draw and competing for major titles when it's time. That's how we make every decision, based on that."
I personally believe that if you are the #1 Jr. Tennis player in the world, that you should be in the conversation to compete in the US Open, especially if you played last year.
Now, BreezyG has been a big guy all his life, but has always been the athletic type. In my previous life as an athlete, I have competed on both the varsity and club levels in various sports. It personally offends me that a person is unable to compete on any level (period) just because they don't look the part. This is one time that I don't get it. If that were the case, guys like Charles Barkley would have never even got the chance to get into the Hall of Fame.
I confess that I was really ready to rant when I found out that Townsend was an African-American. I was going to say how, way in the back of my mind, that they didn't want another great female player of color to hit the scene. That was until I read an article about how David Mercer, a BBC commentator from across the pond in London, suggested that a top Jr. white female player "needed to lose some puppy fat." He was admonished for his comments by his employer.
I decided against the rant, after weighing both sides of the issue.
Taylor Townsend is a 16 year old tennis player who just happens to be the best junior tennis player in the world. In her brief career, she has already won the Jr. Australian Open singles title and has won three Grand Slam events both in singles and doubles.
And, according to the U.S. Tennis Association, Taylor Townsend also has a weight problem. So much of a problem that her USTA coaches would not pay for her travel to the recent U.S. Open Tournament in New York. Before this year's Open, Taylor asked the USTA for a wild-card entry slot in either the Open's main draw or its qualifying tournament, which Taylor had played in last year. Her requests were denied. "Our concern is her long-term health, number one, and her long-term development as a player," said Patrick McEnroe, the general manager of the USTA's player development program. "We have one goal in mind: For her to be playing in [Arthur Ashe Stadium] in the main draw and competing for major titles when it's time. That's how we make every decision, based on that."
I personally believe that if you are the #1 Jr. Tennis player in the world, that you should be in the conversation to compete in the US Open, especially if you played last year.
Now, BreezyG has been a big guy all his life, but has always been the athletic type. In my previous life as an athlete, I have competed on both the varsity and club levels in various sports. It personally offends me that a person is unable to compete on any level (period) just because they don't look the part. This is one time that I don't get it. If that were the case, guys like Charles Barkley would have never even got the chance to get into the Hall of Fame.
I confess that I was really ready to rant when I found out that Townsend was an African-American. I was going to say how, way in the back of my mind, that they didn't want another great female player of color to hit the scene. That was until I read an article about how David Mercer, a BBC commentator from across the pond in London, suggested that a top Jr. white female player "needed to lose some puppy fat." He was admonished for his comments by his employer.
I decided against the rant, after weighing both sides of the issue.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Debut
They say that confession is good for the soul. I admit that I was just hoping for a respectful showing by Robert Griffin III playing in his first NFL regular season game against the New Orleans Saints on the road in the Big Easy. I was hoping that the Skins wouldn't look too bad in New Orleans, where it is a party (truly) every night.
It just goes to show you that in the NFL, you can so easily be wrong.
RG3 looked like a polished veteran yesterday as the Skins outscored the Saints 40-32 yesterday in their season opener. He was the only rookie quarterback that won his first game. The Skins hadn't scored 40 points in a game since the Joe Gibbs era back in 2007. Not only did they keep pace with the Saints, they actually in fact were the front runners all day as Griffin ran the offense like a skilled maestro. He completed his first eight passes enroute to a 19 for 26, 320 yd, 2 TD (no picks) performance. His seventh completion was a 88 yard dart to his #88, WR Pierre Garcon for his first career touchdown. He completed the half with a perfect passer rating, the first ever for a rookie quarterback in his first game. His 320 passing yards were second only to Cam Newton's 400 plus yard performance last year for an opening game rookie performance.
In reviewing his performance, the coaching staff let him do, like Hancock says, him. He ran most of the game from the shotgun and ran a pseudo option/pass type of offense. This was used to give him the option to run or pass after (for example) rolling out to one side of the field or the other. He seemed to make the right decision most of the day whether to run (42 yards rushing) or pass. The question for me is will he be able to take the punishment that he will get for running this offence over fifteen (or more) games.
It also has to be mentioned that he was helped by a strong running game, led by rookie running back Alfred Morris (96 yds rushing, 2TD's), and a defense that limited the Saints to 32 yards rushing and less than 21 minutes of possession time.
I have to say that since this guy has come into the league, he has come as advertised. He has said and done all the right things, which includes carrying the equipment of the older veterans after practice during camp. As the latest generation says, he's got swag. It's hard not to get excited as a Skins fan.
It just goes to show you that in the NFL, you can so easily be wrong.
RG3 looked like a polished veteran yesterday as the Skins outscored the Saints 40-32 yesterday in their season opener. He was the only rookie quarterback that won his first game. The Skins hadn't scored 40 points in a game since the Joe Gibbs era back in 2007. Not only did they keep pace with the Saints, they actually in fact were the front runners all day as Griffin ran the offense like a skilled maestro. He completed his first eight passes enroute to a 19 for 26, 320 yd, 2 TD (no picks) performance. His seventh completion was a 88 yard dart to his #88, WR Pierre Garcon for his first career touchdown. He completed the half with a perfect passer rating, the first ever for a rookie quarterback in his first game. His 320 passing yards were second only to Cam Newton's 400 plus yard performance last year for an opening game rookie performance.
In reviewing his performance, the coaching staff let him do, like Hancock says, him. He ran most of the game from the shotgun and ran a pseudo option/pass type of offense. This was used to give him the option to run or pass after (for example) rolling out to one side of the field or the other. He seemed to make the right decision most of the day whether to run (42 yards rushing) or pass. The question for me is will he be able to take the punishment that he will get for running this offence over fifteen (or more) games.
It also has to be mentioned that he was helped by a strong running game, led by rookie running back Alfred Morris (96 yds rushing, 2TD's), and a defense that limited the Saints to 32 yards rushing and less than 21 minutes of possession time.
I have to say that since this guy has come into the league, he has come as advertised. He has said and done all the right things, which includes carrying the equipment of the older veterans after practice during camp. As the latest generation says, he's got swag. It's hard not to get excited as a Skins fan.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Ain't the beer cold...
I know what you're thinking. BreezyG comes out from his Fantasy Football four draft enclave fired up and ready to talk about football with the season starting on Wednesday. Ready to talk about how he is still all in on RG3 and how the Ravens will make their usual march toward the playoffs.
Well, you are right about one thing. I am going to talk about the birds. Just not about those birds.
The Baltimore Orioles head into September on a serious roll. They have won 30 of 49 games since the All-Star break, have hit 61 "taters" (baseball speak for home runs) which is 5th in the American League since the break and are within just one game of the Yankees for the AL East division lead. If the playoffs began today, Baltimore would be in. They just took two of three from the Bronx Bombers this past weekend in New York. The Birds get their offensive punch from five guys who have provided 50 or more RBI's this year, led by their main man Adam Jones, who has hit 26 taters to go along with 68 RBI's.
Looking at this team, I'm wondering how the Birds keep winning. For me, they just get the key hits at the right times and good pitching when needed. Just yesterday Joe Sanders, acquired from the Diamondbacks on August 26th, retired the first 17 batters he faced en-route to helping the Birds toss a three hit shutout of the Blue Jays. The win put the Orioles 16 games over .500 for the first time since the end of the 1997 season, the last time the O’s had a winning record. It was also their 29th win against the AL East — a critical stat as the Orioles push for a playoff spot — surpassing last year’s season total with 23 division games still to play.
I'll put it out there right now: While it is too early to dream of Christmas, it's not too early to dream of a I-95 Nationals-Orioles world series. Wow.
Well, you are right about one thing. I am going to talk about the birds. Just not about those birds.
The Baltimore Orioles head into September on a serious roll. They have won 30 of 49 games since the All-Star break, have hit 61 "taters" (baseball speak for home runs) which is 5th in the American League since the break and are within just one game of the Yankees for the AL East division lead. If the playoffs began today, Baltimore would be in. They just took two of three from the Bronx Bombers this past weekend in New York. The Birds get their offensive punch from five guys who have provided 50 or more RBI's this year, led by their main man Adam Jones, who has hit 26 taters to go along with 68 RBI's.
Looking at this team, I'm wondering how the Birds keep winning. For me, they just get the key hits at the right times and good pitching when needed. Just yesterday Joe Sanders, acquired from the Diamondbacks on August 26th, retired the first 17 batters he faced en-route to helping the Birds toss a three hit shutout of the Blue Jays. The win put the Orioles 16 games over .500 for the first time since the end of the 1997 season, the last time the O’s had a winning record. It was also their 29th win against the AL East — a critical stat as the Orioles push for a playoff spot — surpassing last year’s season total with 23 division games still to play.
I'll put it out there right now: While it is too early to dream of Christmas, it's not too early to dream of a I-95 Nationals-Orioles world series. Wow.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Seclusion
This will be my last blog entry for a while. It always happens around this time of year. The time where (aside from my job and family) nothing else really matters. It's time to get serious. I'm talkin about, of course, fantasy football.
This time of year I'm watching tape of pre-season games like Kobe. Sometimes I'll watch the same game two or three times to find that certain attitude or edge that will get me another title. I'm reading magazines, scouring websites and contacting all of my league sources to get the skinny on the sleeper players. You laugh, but I won two of the four leagues that I was in last year and made the playoffs in another.
This time of year I'm watching tape of pre-season games like Kobe. Sometimes I'll watch the same game two or three times to find that certain attitude or edge that will get me another title. I'm reading magazines, scouring websites and contacting all of my league sources to get the skinny on the sleeper players. You laugh, but I won two of the four leagues that I was in last year and made the playoffs in another.
Yes, I'm that serious. But then again, I know some guys that are in ten or more different leagues. Ten or more.
Since 1962, fantasy football has taken over the hearts and minds of men and women alike. More than 30 million people play fantasy football just online. Maria's fantasy football league, founded in Spokane Washington in 1981, has evolved from a eight team league into twenty-four franchises divided into two conferences. The league which I now run and closest to my heart, the Workplace Football League (WPFL) is starting it's 16th season.
You may ask why the madness. Well, first off, it's sports. You are the owner, general manager and head coach of your own team minus the headaches, bills and tantrums. You get the pure essence of the sport: the performances.
In some leagues, the performances really add up to real dollars. There are some leagues that have entry fees that run into the thousands with the winners winning as big. One league has a $10,000 award for first place. I'm sure that there are others leagues that have bigger payouts.
So if I don't return calls, texts or e-mails in a timely manner, if at all, please understand that this is serious business. After all, a guy has to have a hobby.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
Fever
I started showing symptoms a couple of weeks ago. When I went to my doctor's appointment last week, he couldn't find anything wrong. Ran all kinds of tests. Nothing. After last night, I finally figured out what the problem was.
I got pennant playoff fever. Washington Nationals pennant playoff fever.
What confirmed my diagnosis was last night game against the second place Braves, who came to DC for a crucial three game series. The Braves were just five games behind the first place Nationals going into last night's game. As they have done all year, the Nationals took game one in a thirteen inning marathon. They didn't win with a towering home run or a wall banging double. They hit two infield singles and scored on a error by Atlanta. It was the Nats' ninth walk off win this season. They still have the best record in the majors, winning their 76th game of the season. They won just 80 games all of last season.
Now unlike the Redskins, I can't find a glass of Nats Kool-aid anywhere. Even at the ballpark, it's just beer and regular soda. I actually get that: considering that we haven't had a baseball playoff game in DC in decades, we Nats fans refuse to get but so excited in spite of our success this year. But we are talking about it. A lot.
My beef with the team is the decision to shut down our young ace, Stephen Strasburg (14-5, 2.91 ERA) after pitching a certain number of innings which schedules him to be finished early in September. This is due to not rushing him back after having "Tommy John" surgery last year. As this sports page always tries to educate, Tommy John surgery is a surgical graft procedure in which a ligament in the medial elbow is replaced with a tendon from elsewhere in the body (often from the forearm, hamstring, hip, knee, or foot of the patient). In the history of this procedure, recovery time for pitchers is generally a year. Ironically, the Braves have a similar situation with one of their pitchers (Kris Medlen), who's on a pitch count of his own after having the same surgery. The difference is that he stared the season in the bullpen and has only pitched 80 innings to date. While he's only 4-1 to date, innings are not a issue.
I'm from the George Allen school when I say that the future is now. From year to year, you never know what could happen during the course of a season. This could be our year. Or not. After no major playoff games in any of our major sports (no disrespect to DC United) in years, I'm willing to roll the dice.
After all, I want to see what the Nats' Kool-aid tastes like.
I got pennant playoff fever. Washington Nationals pennant playoff fever.
What confirmed my diagnosis was last night game against the second place Braves, who came to DC for a crucial three game series. The Braves were just five games behind the first place Nationals going into last night's game. As they have done all year, the Nationals took game one in a thirteen inning marathon. They didn't win with a towering home run or a wall banging double. They hit two infield singles and scored on a error by Atlanta. It was the Nats' ninth walk off win this season. They still have the best record in the majors, winning their 76th game of the season. They won just 80 games all of last season.
Now unlike the Redskins, I can't find a glass of Nats Kool-aid anywhere. Even at the ballpark, it's just beer and regular soda. I actually get that: considering that we haven't had a baseball playoff game in DC in decades, we Nats fans refuse to get but so excited in spite of our success this year. But we are talking about it. A lot.
My beef with the team is the decision to shut down our young ace, Stephen Strasburg (14-5, 2.91 ERA) after pitching a certain number of innings which schedules him to be finished early in September. This is due to not rushing him back after having "Tommy John" surgery last year. As this sports page always tries to educate, Tommy John surgery is a surgical graft procedure in which a ligament in the medial elbow is replaced with a tendon from elsewhere in the body (often from the forearm, hamstring, hip, knee, or foot of the patient). In the history of this procedure, recovery time for pitchers is generally a year. Ironically, the Braves have a similar situation with one of their pitchers (Kris Medlen), who's on a pitch count of his own after having the same surgery. The difference is that he stared the season in the bullpen and has only pitched 80 innings to date. While he's only 4-1 to date, innings are not a issue.
I'm from the George Allen school when I say that the future is now. From year to year, you never know what could happen during the course of a season. This could be our year. Or not. After no major playoff games in any of our major sports (no disrespect to DC United) in years, I'm willing to roll the dice.
After all, I want to see what the Nats' Kool-aid tastes like.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Really?
Talk about a swift fall from grace.
Chad Johnson, the six-time All-Pro wide receiver with more than 750 receptions in his ten year career, was cut by the Miami Dolphins after being arrested on domestic violence charges involving his wife of 42 days. Since that alleged incident, he has lost his job, his upcoming reality show that was scheduled for release later this year as well as his wife who has filed for divorce. All within the span of less than a week.
BreezyG takes special care to talk about the athlete in relation to his performance on the field. My question is, did he really deserve being cut?
First, the legal side. The reports regarding the incident are varied. What is factual is that his wife showed up at a neighbor's house with a bloodied forehead, the result of a head butt, according to her. Johnson says that she head butted him. In either case, this is for the courts to sort out. A verdict has not been reached.
Second, I feel that Johnson still has something in the tank at 34. Throw out his last season with the Patriots where he only caught 15 balls. That was a case of a round hole trying to fit into a square peg. Not getting along with the star quarterback didn't help either. In his brief time that I saw him on "Hard Knocks", I saw him get separation regularly at practice.
What really made me ask this question is the way that Johnson was cut. It was done on the show, which I have to admit I do like to watch. Having said that, the releasing of players on camera is really tough to watch. Especially on the first episode when a player was cut only because they had worked out and signed a veteran at the same position. This is where Tony Soprano would say, "We're runnin a business here."
I'm a Chad Johnson fan. In part because his antics were restricted to the field. I liked the HOF jacket move and the using of the end zone pillar to put for par. Until TMZ busted him a couple of days ago, saying that he was involved in a similar incident regarding a girl friend in college, Johnson for the most part has kept his nose clean. He even got along with the new sports gangster in town, Commissioner Goodell. He didn't go all gangster wild with it like Avon from the Wire. It was fun.
I must say that I get that new Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin wants to set a tone that a new sheriff is in town and he is the law. I also get it that he told Johnson that he was only going to get one strike going into this camp. It didn't help that he held a profanity laced press conference in that same initial Hard Knocks episode that was frowned upon by the coaching staff and management.
In spite of all this, I do feel that he should have gotten a second chance. I know you don't hear me.
Chad Johnson, the six-time All-Pro wide receiver with more than 750 receptions in his ten year career, was cut by the Miami Dolphins after being arrested on domestic violence charges involving his wife of 42 days. Since that alleged incident, he has lost his job, his upcoming reality show that was scheduled for release later this year as well as his wife who has filed for divorce. All within the span of less than a week.
BreezyG takes special care to talk about the athlete in relation to his performance on the field. My question is, did he really deserve being cut?
First, the legal side. The reports regarding the incident are varied. What is factual is that his wife showed up at a neighbor's house with a bloodied forehead, the result of a head butt, according to her. Johnson says that she head butted him. In either case, this is for the courts to sort out. A verdict has not been reached.
Second, I feel that Johnson still has something in the tank at 34. Throw out his last season with the Patriots where he only caught 15 balls. That was a case of a round hole trying to fit into a square peg. Not getting along with the star quarterback didn't help either. In his brief time that I saw him on "Hard Knocks", I saw him get separation regularly at practice.
What really made me ask this question is the way that Johnson was cut. It was done on the show, which I have to admit I do like to watch. Having said that, the releasing of players on camera is really tough to watch. Especially on the first episode when a player was cut only because they had worked out and signed a veteran at the same position. This is where Tony Soprano would say, "We're runnin a business here."
I'm a Chad Johnson fan. In part because his antics were restricted to the field. I liked the HOF jacket move and the using of the end zone pillar to put for par. Until TMZ busted him a couple of days ago, saying that he was involved in a similar incident regarding a girl friend in college, Johnson for the most part has kept his nose clean. He even got along with the new sports gangster in town, Commissioner Goodell. He didn't go all gangster wild with it like Avon from the Wire. It was fun.
I must say that I get that new Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin wants to set a tone that a new sheriff is in town and he is the law. I also get it that he told Johnson that he was only going to get one strike going into this camp. It didn't help that he held a profanity laced press conference in that same initial Hard Knocks episode that was frowned upon by the coaching staff and management.
In spite of all this, I do feel that he should have gotten a second chance. I know you don't hear me.
Sunday, August 12, 2012
USA!!!...USA!!!
I had to write this one while I still felt the emotion and national pride of our men's b-ball team winning their second Olympic title in a row. Make no mistake Spain, (with their paternal twin towers in the Gasol brothers) gave the US all they could handle with their strong big man play. It was a shame that the refs were a factor when Marc Gasol got his fourth foul in the first half. Neverless, the US won the gold the old fashioned way: they earned it.
The difference has been the guy that's been the difference all year long: King James. Bron-Bron caps an incredible year by winning the regular season MVP award, the NBA title, the finals MVP and his second gold medal to go with his bronze medal. The only other player to do that was (who else?) Michael Jordan. His big time 3-pointer with less than than two minutes to play gave the States a nine point lead and never looked back. He has finally brushed the dust of "The Decision" off his shoulder and can now concentrate on winning not two, not three...oh, sorry.
The difference has been the guy that's been the difference all year long: King James. Bron-Bron caps an incredible year by winning the regular season MVP award, the NBA title, the finals MVP and his second gold medal to go with his bronze medal. The only other player to do that was (who else?) Michael Jordan. His big time 3-pointer with less than than two minutes to play gave the States a nine point lead and never looked back. He has finally brushed the dust of "The Decision" off his shoulder and can now concentrate on winning not two, not three...oh, sorry.
As for the rest of the team, more accolades. Kevin Durant, the new gunslinger in town, broke the Olympic scoring record held by Spencer Haywood and led the US in scoring with 30 points in the title game. Anthony Davis ended a great year of his own by winning both the NCAA and Olympic titles as well as becoming the #1 pick in the NBA draft. Where does he go from here? And for all the titles and awards that head coach Mike Krzyzewski has won, Krzyzewski, who ends his Olympic coaching career with these Games, showed emotion himself by jumping off the bench after Labron's three pointer. I've never seen him do that. Ever.
As we continue to show our dominance in hoops (love to the women too, who won their 5th title in a row), I never get tired of seeing our flag go up ahead of the others when they play our anthem. Now if they would only play Marvin Gaye's version of the anthem.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Juice...how far will you go to get it?
This week has been the fun part of the Games for me because of the track and field events. My love for these events goes back to my high school and college days in my previous life as an athlete. This was before I changed my major to partying.
I just enjoyed the circus like atmosphere, from the 100yd dash to the shot put (my "specialty") to the long jump. Today's athletes have taken these events to another level with their record breaking performances. Some think that these records are not possible without help.
I just enjoyed the circus like atmosphere, from the 100yd dash to the shot put (my "specialty") to the long jump. Today's athletes have taken these events to another level with their record breaking performances. Some think that these records are not possible without help.
Once again, the 'juice' factor rears it's ugly head. Usain Bolt (gotta love that name for a sprinter) became only the second runner in history to win back-to-back 100m dashes. When I watched this event, he actually made it look easy, overcoming a slow start to 'walk down' his countryman Yohan Blake for the win. Was it really legit?
To begin, understand that this is not the first time that this has been suggested. This goes all the way back to the first athlete who was expelled in 1968. The first back-to-back 100m winner, Carl Lewis, won his second race when the winner at the time, Ben Johnson, tested positive. Fast forwarding to more recent times, various athletes such as US judo athlete Nicholas Delpopolo, were kicked out after testing positive for smoking weed in this year's games.
Victor Conte, who was one the "godfathers" of the juicing craze, says that up to 65% of today's athletes are still using some form of enhancements. That's more than three out of every five athletes. Strangely enough, he volunteered to provide insight to the World Anti-Doping Agency as to possible methods being used by athletes, but was turned down.
Let's look at this year's race. For the first time in history, the top four finishers in this year's race had a time of less than 9.9 seconds (9.63, 9.75, 9.79 and 9.80) with Bolt setting an Olympic record. All of these times are in the top eight fastest times in track history. Critics could say that if one is juicing, they are all drinking from the same vial. Others could attribute it to new technology and training regimens. In either case, we won't know for a couple of years. Until then, I'll give them the benefit of the doubt.
Remember, it's only illegal if they get caught.
Friday, August 3, 2012
Eye Candy
Now that I have your attention...
When Jeannine Wikering came in third in the European pole-dancing championships back in 2008 she said, “I think one day it should be an Olympic sport — but that will take time.” Four years later, don't get it twisted (well, I take that back), but I think she may be on to something.
A formal petition has been submitted to the International Olympic Committee to have pole dancing as a Olympic sport. Now, before you laugh, hear me out. There are two major world organizations: The International Pole Dance Fitness Association and the International Pole Sports Federation (http://www.polesports.org/Organization.html). Both organizations already have regional and world championships, so the infrastructure is already in place to have a legitimate champion. They also have by-laws and a rule book.
Now while you neanderthals get your head out of the local bar read on. BreezyG has spared no expense in researching this topic. Of course, this required some on-site visits to some of the more nearby locations. Being a blogger does have it's advantages.
Just in the above photos, look at the athleticism being executed. Rookies better bring their 'A' game. If they can have synchronized swimming and gymnastics, they can have pole dancing. Don't tell me that these performers are not in comparable tip top shape.
The anticipation for this event would be incredible. Aside from the obvious sex appeal, it would open up a new venue of creativity and create a crop of new stars a opportunity to brush their shoulders off like Jay-Z. The 2016 games, which are only 1,462 days away, will be in Rio, Brazil.
Like Tom Hagen told Sonny on the Godfather, "Just take this into consideration."
Monday, July 30, 2012
The Dream
As the games of the 30th Olympiad began this weekend. I had a blase, blase feeling about it. Back in the day, when it didn't seem so commercial, I was looking forward to seeing our athletes represent. It could of been just me ignoring the commercials. As for the this year's events, I figured I would see them when I see them.
Then I was hanging out Friday night at a restaurant that had wide screen TV's. It was then I saw what I call the Opening Ceremony Olympic Walk where all of the countries enter the stadium. Pageantry has it's place. When you see the faces of people from all over the world who have in some cases trained their entire life just for this moment in time showing their nation pride, it can't help but grab you. They are just happy to be there.
And then, like Ray Charles says why he likes country music, it's the stories. Right off the bat there's the story of archer Im Dong-hyun, the South Korean who set an Olympic record. The twist is that he is legally blind. He has 10 percent vision in his left eye and 20 percent in his right. He says he sees only blurred colors and lines when he peers toward the target, which is about 76 yards away. By the way, he broke his own record in the event. Then there's Nur Suryani Mohammed Taibi, the Malaysian woman who found out within days of each other that she would be both an Olympian and a mother. She is due in September. She has to wear a special harness to compete in her sport. Her father, Mohammed Taibi, said, "I'm proud of her. I've told her: If you can compete in the Olympics, that's such an achievement already — all the more when you're pregnant."
Like Ray said, "...the stories, man."
Then I was hanging out Friday night at a restaurant that had wide screen TV's. It was then I saw what I call the Opening Ceremony Olympic Walk where all of the countries enter the stadium. Pageantry has it's place. When you see the faces of people from all over the world who have in some cases trained their entire life just for this moment in time showing their nation pride, it can't help but grab you. They are just happy to be there.
And then, like Ray Charles says why he likes country music, it's the stories. Right off the bat there's the story of archer Im Dong-hyun, the South Korean who set an Olympic record. The twist is that he is legally blind. He has 10 percent vision in his left eye and 20 percent in his right. He says he sees only blurred colors and lines when he peers toward the target, which is about 76 yards away. By the way, he broke his own record in the event. Then there's Nur Suryani Mohammed Taibi, the Malaysian woman who found out within days of each other that she would be both an Olympian and a mother. She is due in September. She has to wear a special harness to compete in her sport. Her father, Mohammed Taibi, said, "I'm proud of her. I've told her: If you can compete in the Olympics, that's such an achievement already — all the more when you're pregnant."
Like Ray said, "...the stories, man."
Thursday, July 26, 2012
War of the Hearts
I'm still conflicted.
For the past few years, I have struggled (as a sports fan) as to where to place my football loyalties. Since childhood, I have been a Redskins fan. Despite the offensive name, I have cheered for the burgundy and gold from the days of Charley Taylor and Larry Brown to Art Monk and Darrell Green. I was there through our dynasty years in the 80's and have stayed a loyal fan with the team through our more recent leaner years.
Then I went off to college at Towson State (now called Towson University) in Baltimore, Maryland. While there (which includes living there for six years), I have developed lifelong friendships both on a personal and teammate level. Like I always say, you never get tired of winning championships, no matter what the level of competition. But like Houdini says about friends, how many of us have them?
Then came the Ravens.
I have always had respect for the Ravens since they came to B-More in 1996. They showed me something by drafting a offensive tackle with their first pick (#4) as a team. Their management, led by the Wizard of Charm City GM Ozzie Newsome, has always seemed to push the right buttons to get the right guys in the right place at the right time. By picking at least five (?) future Hall-of-Famers that include Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Jonathan Ogden, the Wizard will probably be one of the few to get in the Hall as both a player and front office guy.
I have become more immersed in the Charm City life more so in the last few years, including my recent recovery from my injury. I go back to the O'Dells and Pascal club nights. On most Sundays, I'm at Club 29 rooting for dare I say (?) the purple and black. Chances are that I will probably end up living there.
For the past few years, I have struggled (as a sports fan) as to where to place my football loyalties. Since childhood, I have been a Redskins fan. Despite the offensive name, I have cheered for the burgundy and gold from the days of Charley Taylor and Larry Brown to Art Monk and Darrell Green. I was there through our dynasty years in the 80's and have stayed a loyal fan with the team through our more recent leaner years.
Then I went off to college at Towson State (now called Towson University) in Baltimore, Maryland. While there (which includes living there for six years), I have developed lifelong friendships both on a personal and teammate level. Like I always say, you never get tired of winning championships, no matter what the level of competition. But like Houdini says about friends, how many of us have them?
Then came the Ravens.
I have always had respect for the Ravens since they came to B-More in 1996. They showed me something by drafting a offensive tackle with their first pick (#4) as a team. Their management, led by the Wizard of Charm City GM Ozzie Newsome, has always seemed to push the right buttons to get the right guys in the right place at the right time. By picking at least five (?) future Hall-of-Famers that include Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Jonathan Ogden, the Wizard will probably be one of the few to get in the Hall as both a player and front office guy.
I have become more immersed in the Charm City life more so in the last few years, including my recent recovery from my injury. I go back to the O'Dells and Pascal club nights. On most Sundays, I'm at Club 29 rooting for dare I say (?) the purple and black. Chances are that I will probably end up living there.
On the other hand, I am a DC guy. Like Dorothy said, there's no place like home. I root for all of the home teams, including the Washington Kastles tennis team who is trying to repeat as league champs. My frustration with the Skins getting the latest flavor of the month only to have that taste gone by the time we get it was taking it's toll on me. It would be so much easier if the Skins management was better.
On that note, they may have turned the corner. Ever since owner Dan Snyder hired a real GM in Bruce Allen, the Skins have seemed to made more sensible football decisions. And, as I said before, I am all in on RG3.
My watershed day will probably be December 9th, when these teams meet. How's that for timing?
Monday, July 23, 2012
Culture Shock
The NCAA brought the pain to Penn State like Method Man in handing out what may not be the death penalty, but it's very close.
The Nittany Lions will lose a total of 90 scholarships over the next four years, was placed on probation for five years and was fined 60 million dollars. In addition, Penn State forfeited all their wins from 1998 - 2011 (which include six bowl wins and two conference titles). Head coach Joe Paterno, who was the winningest coach in college football history, fell to 12th after forfeiting 111 wins.
Let's take this from the top. For all you Penn State'ers who said that they should not be punished because the people that helped to create this are no longer there, the NCAA said ah, no. The NCAA said in their ruling that not only that Penn State did it, they would do it again if they had to. They told Penn State that this was a culture thing and you better understand. Like I said in my blog about this last year (November 10th), at the least Joe Pa should have pulled his boy up and said "what's up?". Instead, he went Godfather style and said, "I'll take care of it." In this case, it was both the crime and the cover up that's equally bad.
My only issue is that the NC2A didn't go in Penn State's pocket deep enough. The 60 million dollar fine was just equal to the school's average annual revenue of the football program. While the money will be used to help fund an endowment for "external programs preventing child sexual abuse or assisting victims", I say "Really?" Just one year? The alumni will make that up at the next fundraiser.
At the end of the day, we are talkin about child abuse. What if it had been more than just one person?
The Nittany Lions will lose a total of 90 scholarships over the next four years, was placed on probation for five years and was fined 60 million dollars. In addition, Penn State forfeited all their wins from 1998 - 2011 (which include six bowl wins and two conference titles). Head coach Joe Paterno, who was the winningest coach in college football history, fell to 12th after forfeiting 111 wins.
Let's take this from the top. For all you Penn State'ers who said that they should not be punished because the people that helped to create this are no longer there, the NCAA said ah, no. The NCAA said in their ruling that not only that Penn State did it, they would do it again if they had to. They told Penn State that this was a culture thing and you better understand. Like I said in my blog about this last year (November 10th), at the least Joe Pa should have pulled his boy up and said "what's up?". Instead, he went Godfather style and said, "I'll take care of it." In this case, it was both the crime and the cover up that's equally bad.
My only issue is that the NC2A didn't go in Penn State's pocket deep enough. The 60 million dollar fine was just equal to the school's average annual revenue of the football program. While the money will be used to help fund an endowment for "external programs preventing child sexual abuse or assisting victims", I say "Really?" Just one year? The alumni will make that up at the next fundraiser.
At the end of the day, we are talkin about child abuse. What if it had been more than just one person?
Monday, July 16, 2012
NBA History
You never know where you will learn something. While getting my car worked on this weekend, I peeked out a documentary made by NBA Hall-of-Famer Kareem Abdul Jabbar about what he called was the "greatest team that you never heard of." The Harlem Rens (short for renaissance) played out of the Renaissance Casino and Ballroom at 138th St and Seventh Avenue from 1922 to 1948. They were created by future Hall-of-Fame manager Bob Douglas, who made a agreement with William Roach, the owner of the Ballroom to help promote the ballroom.
The Big R Five as they were called became America's first all-black, black-owned fully professional basketball team. Players included team captain and point guard Clarence "Fats" Jenkins, James "Pappy" Ricks and Frank "Strangler" Forbes. Aside from loving the nicknames, these guys also played in the Negro baseball Leagues. William "Pop" Gates and Charles "Tarzan" Cooper are Hall-of-Famers. John Isaacs, who has a street named after him in Harlem, was a youth counselor at the Madison Square Boys and Girls for more than 50 years after his playing days.
These players helped the "Rens" compile a 2,588 - 529 record. According to the Basketball Hall of Fame website, this team at one time won 88 straight games. The team took on all comers, which included wins against the Boston Celtics, the dominant team of the day. "I was raised hearing that the Celtics were the greatest team of all time," said Richard Lapchick, son of Celtic Joe Lapchick. "My dad's friends would say that and all our neighbors would say that. But he would correct them and say, 'The Rens were every bit as good as we were in the beginning and were better than us in the end.'"
Their success paved the way for the creation of the Harlem Globetrotters in 1927. It is here that I come clean and admit that I did not know that the Globetrotters actually were from Chicago.
The Rens peaked in 1939 by winning the first ever World Professional Basketball Championship. First ever, black or white. Their title included a win over the rival Globetrotters in the third round.
Despite this win, they were still denied entry in what is now the NBA. Glad to see times have changed.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Hopeless Romantic
I'm all in...again.
Last time I made this statement I was talkin about my Washington Redskins and their top draft pick, RGIII, regarding the anticipation for the upcoming season. This time I'm caught up in the rapture like Anita Baker about my Washington Nationals. Going into the All-Star break, the Nats have the best record in the National League (49-34), four games ahead of the Braves in the East.
This year's All-Star roster includes four Nationals that include pitchers Gio Gonzales and wiz kid Steven Strasburg, who have a combined record of 21-7 record going into the break. The other picks include shortstop Ian Desmond (.285 BA) who is on pace to hit 34 home runs and over 100 RBI's and even younger wiz kid Bryce Harper, who will be the youngest player to ever play in the summer classic at 19.
I personally think that the major difference is the addition of manager Davey Johnson. It seems that in Baseball the manager can make all the difference in the world. Johnson, who has won more than 1,200 games in his major league managerial career (including a Olympic bronze medal), has provided a steadying influence in the clubhouse during this recent run. He always looks to push the envelope.
So, like I said...
Last time I made this statement I was talkin about my Washington Redskins and their top draft pick, RGIII, regarding the anticipation for the upcoming season. This time I'm caught up in the rapture like Anita Baker about my Washington Nationals. Going into the All-Star break, the Nats have the best record in the National League (49-34), four games ahead of the Braves in the East.
This year's All-Star roster includes four Nationals that include pitchers Gio Gonzales and wiz kid Steven Strasburg, who have a combined record of 21-7 record going into the break. The other picks include shortstop Ian Desmond (.285 BA) who is on pace to hit 34 home runs and over 100 RBI's and even younger wiz kid Bryce Harper, who will be the youngest player to ever play in the summer classic at 19.
I personally think that the major difference is the addition of manager Davey Johnson. It seems that in Baseball the manager can make all the difference in the world. Johnson, who has won more than 1,200 games in his major league managerial career (including a Olympic bronze medal), has provided a steadying influence in the clubhouse during this recent run. He always looks to push the envelope.
So, like I said...
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
The 4th
On this Independence Day I slept late, watched my Nationals win and bounced between a Star Trek TNG marathon, the History Channel series "The Presidents" and "America, the Story of Us". Add a nice sit down dinner at one of my favorite diners and that was it.
And that's exactly the point.
It's days like this that remind me of the decent place in the world that we live in. I know, I know, there is racism, civil rights issues and various disagreements about various things. But doggone if it is still is one of the best places in the world to live. It truly could be worse. In some places, I would be jailed for writing this blog. In some places, I wouldn't even have a blog.
Since Crispus Attucks took the first bullet at the Boston Massacre to us taking our freedom from the Brits, we as Americans have always valued our way of life.
Part of the reason for this are our troops. Their sacrifice can never be measured in real enough terms. As having two brothers who served, I always have appreciated the sacrifice our troops have done for us so we can do the things that we do.
Now, if you will excuse me, I will now watch my Law & Order - Criminal Intent marathon. Because I can.
And that's exactly the point.
It's days like this that remind me of the decent place in the world that we live in. I know, I know, there is racism, civil rights issues and various disagreements about various things. But doggone if it is still is one of the best places in the world to live. It truly could be worse. In some places, I would be jailed for writing this blog. In some places, I wouldn't even have a blog.
Since Crispus Attucks took the first bullet at the Boston Massacre to us taking our freedom from the Brits, we as Americans have always valued our way of life.
Part of the reason for this are our troops. Their sacrifice can never be measured in real enough terms. As having two brothers who served, I always have appreciated the sacrifice our troops have done for us so we can do the things that we do.
Now, if you will excuse me, I will now watch my Law & Order - Criminal Intent marathon. Because I can.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Draft Time
Depending on how you look at it, tomorrow's NBA draft is either the end of this year's season or the start of next year's season. While I would love to do a first round analysis, I'm only gonna talk about my team, the Washington Wizards.
The Wizards have the #3 pick. Given the recent trade they completed with New Orleans getting center Emeka Okafor and swingman Trevor Ariza, it seems that the table has been set to take care of their glaring need: perimeter shooting. The only real shooting guard they have is Jordon Crawford, a player who never met a shot he didn't like. On the playgrounds back in a day he would be called a "heister", which is love when he's on.
Enter freshman Florida guard Bradley Beal, a 6'5" shooting guard who made a third of his 3-point shots and averaged a healthy 6.7 rebounds a game this past year. He made both the SEC All Freshman and Conference teams. Shot a solid 60% from the field in this year's tournament. What gets me exited like the Pointer Sisters is that my basketball people tell me is that this guy could be Ray Allen who doesn't mind getting his jersey a little dirty.
My main concern is that either the Bobcats (who have the #2 pick) would snatch him or the Cavs (at #4) would try to move up to get him. Couple of dynamics going on here. The Cats, who need help everywhere, may trade the pick for more bodies. Guess who would be in that conversation? He would be a nice rebuilding complement to "Uncle Drew" in Cleveland (Kyrie Irving).
My hope is that Charlotte goes Carolina dreamin and picks Harrision Barnes, who is Calbert Cheyney part II. I also like homeboy Thomas Robinson from Kansas and Wildcat Michael Kidd-Gilchrist who is Dennis Rodman with the hustle but without the attitude.
Because this is my blog, I also want to make my personal pitch for a player. Connecticut swingman Jeffery Lamb, who won a championship with the Huskies two years ago, has both a better shooting percentage and scoring average than Beal. Will have to get in the weight room at 179 pounds. Currently projected to be the 15th pick (Phoenix).
I'm still buying owner's Ted Leonsis plan to rebuild one player at a time. Just hope that they are not wolf tickets.
The Wizards have the #3 pick. Given the recent trade they completed with New Orleans getting center Emeka Okafor and swingman Trevor Ariza, it seems that the table has been set to take care of their glaring need: perimeter shooting. The only real shooting guard they have is Jordon Crawford, a player who never met a shot he didn't like. On the playgrounds back in a day he would be called a "heister", which is love when he's on.
Enter freshman Florida guard Bradley Beal, a 6'5" shooting guard who made a third of his 3-point shots and averaged a healthy 6.7 rebounds a game this past year. He made both the SEC All Freshman and Conference teams. Shot a solid 60% from the field in this year's tournament. What gets me exited like the Pointer Sisters is that my basketball people tell me is that this guy could be Ray Allen who doesn't mind getting his jersey a little dirty.
My main concern is that either the Bobcats (who have the #2 pick) would snatch him or the Cavs (at #4) would try to move up to get him. Couple of dynamics going on here. The Cats, who need help everywhere, may trade the pick for more bodies. Guess who would be in that conversation? He would be a nice rebuilding complement to "Uncle Drew" in Cleveland (Kyrie Irving).
My hope is that Charlotte goes Carolina dreamin and picks Harrision Barnes, who is Calbert Cheyney part II. I also like homeboy Thomas Robinson from Kansas and Wildcat Michael Kidd-Gilchrist who is Dennis Rodman with the hustle but without the attitude.
Because this is my blog, I also want to make my personal pitch for a player. Connecticut swingman Jeffery Lamb, who won a championship with the Huskies two years ago, has both a better shooting percentage and scoring average than Beal. Will have to get in the weight room at 179 pounds. Currently projected to be the 15th pick (Phoenix).
I'm still buying owner's Ted Leonsis plan to rebuild one player at a time. Just hope that they are not wolf tickets.
Friday, June 22, 2012
Champion
For regular readers of my blog, I have refused to follow the beat of popularity by calling Labron James the King. This was done not out of hate or cause I didn't like the guy. I appreciate his talents, abilities and personal achievements (3 MVP's). I'm just a team guy and like I always say, while Jordan is one of the greatest players to play the game, someone still had to pass him the ball for him to score or someone had to get that rebound for him to score. For an old skool guy like me who like his athletes to win titles first, then talk his talk, for him to talk about winning not one, not two, not three etc. without winning the first one is like James Brown and his song, "Talkin loud and Sayin Nothin".
Well, his first step to team greatness has been made with his first team championship with the Miami Heat. In earning (his first?) finals MVP, he averaged thirty points and ten rebounds for the series. I have to say here that it was his team; this was one time that I liked ABC showing the pre-game huddle where James gave the pre-game speeches. I thought it was Dwade's (my boy) team, but I stand corrected. For Wade, two rings playing with possibly two of the top ten players in league history and a movie star girlfriend--what's not to like.
I said that the Heat would win the series for the wrong reasons. While there was some referee "stuff" in there (how could Fisher commit an flagrant foul on James?), I still think that the better team won the series. But I still heard that controversial bump in the night.
For Miami, it's their second title in six years. Congratulations to the Heat and their leader.....King James.
Well, his first step to team greatness has been made with his first team championship with the Miami Heat. In earning (his first?) finals MVP, he averaged thirty points and ten rebounds for the series. I have to say here that it was his team; this was one time that I liked ABC showing the pre-game huddle where James gave the pre-game speeches. I thought it was Dwade's (my boy) team, but I stand corrected. For Wade, two rings playing with possibly two of the top ten players in league history and a movie star girlfriend--what's not to like.
I said that the Heat would win the series for the wrong reasons. While there was some referee "stuff" in there (how could Fisher commit an flagrant foul on James?), I still think that the better team won the series. But I still heard that controversial bump in the night.
For Miami, it's their second title in six years. Congratulations to the Heat and their leader.....King James.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Dreamin...
The Miami Heat are one win away from the NBA championship. This despite Prince James being unable to play with leg cramps in the last three minutes and City guard Russ Westbrook scoring 43 points. Not to change the subject, but I got to say here that I love Westbrook's game because he goes to the rack on everybody. He does not care. As for the possible game 5 clincher, I got just one thing to say:
It ain't over.
Yea, yea, i've heard it: no team has ever overcome a 3-1 deficit in the current (bogus) 2-3-2 format to win the title yada, yada yada. But be advised that when the City beat the Spurs this playoff season (after losing the first two games), they only had a 4% chance of doing that. I don't see any quit in these New Jacks, despite their verbal gaffes (Lebron can't play defense---what that's about?).
Now don't get it twisted: BreezyG did predict in a previous blog that the Heat would win the series, but for the wrong reasons. That bump in the night thing. Having said that, the Heat better wrap it up tomorrow night. If it goes back to the City, all bets are off. While I'm not flip flopping like a former President, I'm just saying.
It ain't over.
Yea, yea, i've heard it: no team has ever overcome a 3-1 deficit in the current (bogus) 2-3-2 format to win the title yada, yada yada. But be advised that when the City beat the Spurs this playoff season (after losing the first two games), they only had a 4% chance of doing that. I don't see any quit in these New Jacks, despite their verbal gaffes (Lebron can't play defense---what that's about?).
Now don't get it twisted: BreezyG did predict in a previous blog that the Heat would win the series, but for the wrong reasons. That bump in the night thing. Having said that, the Heat better wrap it up tomorrow night. If it goes back to the City, all bets are off. While I'm not flip flopping like a former President, I'm just saying.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Betrayal
There I was...watchin a great NBA finals game two matchup that was coming down to the wire. Then the incredible happened. Now I've heard the stories of sports fans watching a sporting event when, click, out...nothing darkness. It finally happened to me.
ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!???
I've been in a relationship with Direct TV (if you're a sports fan, yes, it's a relationship) ever since 2006 when I was seduced with a free season of the NFL Ticket to join. As I said in my blog, I've been in love ever since. For me, it even worked through horrific thunder and wind storms with no problem. In six years (honestly) I have had three blackouts with the longest being 10-15 minutes.
Now I know the pain of others who have experienced this. And it doesn't even have to be sports related. From soaps to Law & Order episodes (even though I have seen them all--really I have) to heck, the last ingredient in your dream meal on your favorite cooking show, I have now felt how deep that cut can be. While I got filled in thanks to You Tube, it's really not the same.
I have already sent e-mails to the Direct TV corporate board as well as local management. I am tempted to ask Congress to hold hearings.
You think I can get a $5 credit out the deal?
ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!???
I've been in a relationship with Direct TV (if you're a sports fan, yes, it's a relationship) ever since 2006 when I was seduced with a free season of the NFL Ticket to join. As I said in my blog, I've been in love ever since. For me, it even worked through horrific thunder and wind storms with no problem. In six years (honestly) I have had three blackouts with the longest being 10-15 minutes.
Now I know the pain of others who have experienced this. And it doesn't even have to be sports related. From soaps to Law & Order episodes (even though I have seen them all--really I have) to heck, the last ingredient in your dream meal on your favorite cooking show, I have now felt how deep that cut can be. While I got filled in thanks to You Tube, it's really not the same.
I have already sent e-mails to the Direct TV corporate board as well as local management. I am tempted to ask Congress to hold hearings.
You think I can get a $5 credit out the deal?
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Battle of the Titans
This year's NBA finals will be as funky as a 70's George Clinton concert. The only thing that will be missing is the starship. I believe that natural selection got it right this year as the two best teams in the league will play for the title. As usual, don't look for any in-depth analysis from BreezyG. I'm just going to tell you who's going to win. Regular readers of my blog will remember (only because I got it right) that I picked this year's finalists for the wrong reasons.
This will the first time since 1998 that the two top players in the league (since Jordan vs. the Mailman) will face off in the Finals. Both players bring different talents to the table. Bron-Bron when he's (really) on can take a game over. He averaged 30ppg in the series against the Celtics and the question for me is, who will check him? On the other hand, you got a guy in my homeboy Kevin Durant that is poised to take the clutch mantle from the Black Mamba. He averaged almost thirty a game himself against the hottest team at the time in the Spurs. The two actually hung out this past summer on James turf in Akron for a week, playing flag football against each other.
Another funky matchup is DWade (my boy) against the freakshow in his own right, Russell Westbrook. If Russ can stay under control, that matchup could also be major. I barely give Wade the edge only because of his previous Finals experience. And also because he has the movie star girlfriend.
While the top two could cancel each other out, the difference could be each teams part three: Sixth man of the year James Harden and current All-Star Chris Bosh. Both have come back from serious injuries to play major parts for their team. Harden has been more the madman with his fearless drives to the rack while Bosh is content being the third option and shooting his open jumpers.
One more point: the big men. While the Heat are vertically challenged, the City has a pair in Perkins and what Stephen A. Smith calls the "Swat Master" in Serge Ibaka.
I'm staying with my pick that I made in my previous blog. I believe that this series will be the crowning of Labron James in getting his first ring. The City has more firepower, are younger and playoff tested after beating recent champions in the Mavericks, Lakers and Spurs. They are not waiting for their turn. They are banging at the door now. Having said that, I think that thelight bulb has come on for James and it's time.
This will the first time since 1998 that the two top players in the league (since Jordan vs. the Mailman) will face off in the Finals. Both players bring different talents to the table. Bron-Bron when he's (really) on can take a game over. He averaged 30ppg in the series against the Celtics and the question for me is, who will check him? On the other hand, you got a guy in my homeboy Kevin Durant that is poised to take the clutch mantle from the Black Mamba. He averaged almost thirty a game himself against the hottest team at the time in the Spurs. The two actually hung out this past summer on James turf in Akron for a week, playing flag football against each other.
Another funky matchup is DWade (my boy) against the freakshow in his own right, Russell Westbrook. If Russ can stay under control, that matchup could also be major. I barely give Wade the edge only because of his previous Finals experience. And also because he has the movie star girlfriend.
While the top two could cancel each other out, the difference could be each teams part three: Sixth man of the year James Harden and current All-Star Chris Bosh. Both have come back from serious injuries to play major parts for their team. Harden has been more the madman with his fearless drives to the rack while Bosh is content being the third option and shooting his open jumpers.
One more point: the big men. While the Heat are vertically challenged, the City has a pair in Perkins and what Stephen A. Smith calls the "Swat Master" in Serge Ibaka.
I'm staying with my pick that I made in my previous blog. I believe that this series will be the crowning of Labron James in getting his first ring. The City has more firepower, are younger and playoff tested after beating recent champions in the Mavericks, Lakers and Spurs. They are not waiting for their turn. They are banging at the door now. Having said that, I think that the
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Conspiracy Theory
I have to say that I believe in things that go bump in the night. That includes conspiracies and secret pacts. I thought that I would never had to deal with it in my sports. Or at the least for it to be so blatant and obvious.
What took me down this road was last night's game between the City and the Spurs. The game reminded me of the last few playoff games in both series. The home team jumps out to a sizeable lead only to have the road team make a comeback make the game competitive. It got so predictable for me that I cut the game off midway thru the third quarter. I knew that the City was going to win. Now, aside from the City (probably) being the better team, I had seen this movie before.
What really probably got my gander (didn't want to use the more profane phrase) was the tenet of the whole season. You had a shortened season because the owners wanted to save a couple of bucks by locking out the players. Now while I didn't closely follow the negotiations, at the end of the day, the players didn't really seem that happy with their deal. With owners now pocketing half of the revenues (up from 43%), was pimpin really that hard?
What squeezed my gander even tighter was how the league has been overseen by the Commissioner (aka The Godfather) David Stern. Basically, he told the Lakers that Chris Paul couldn't play for them because he would make them a better team. I personally thought that why you make trades.
Then came the draft lottery. Remember, there was a time where the entire process was done live on TV. Now you don't see anything but the league rep coming out with the results already done. Let me put some more stink on it like OutCast by saying how accurate the percentages were in which every team got the pick they was supposed to get except the Wiz, the Bobcats (who was favored to get the #1) and the New Orleans Hornets who jumped over both of them to get the number one pick. By the way, the Hornets are currently owned by the league who is ran by you know who. I can't make this up.
Let me tell you how this season ends. It'll be the Heat vs. the City in the finals. Prince James will have his coronation and his first title. Look for Stern's hit men (the officials) to play a part. It could happen because the Heat are just the better team.
Really?
What took me down this road was last night's game between the City and the Spurs. The game reminded me of the last few playoff games in both series. The home team jumps out to a sizeable lead only to have the road team make a comeback make the game competitive. It got so predictable for me that I cut the game off midway thru the third quarter. I knew that the City was going to win. Now, aside from the City (probably) being the better team, I had seen this movie before.
What really probably got my gander (didn't want to use the more profane phrase) was the tenet of the whole season. You had a shortened season because the owners wanted to save a couple of bucks by locking out the players. Now while I didn't closely follow the negotiations, at the end of the day, the players didn't really seem that happy with their deal. With owners now pocketing half of the revenues (up from 43%), was pimpin really that hard?
What squeezed my gander even tighter was how the league has been overseen by the Commissioner (aka The Godfather) David Stern. Basically, he told the Lakers that Chris Paul couldn't play for them because he would make them a better team. I personally thought that why you make trades.
Then came the draft lottery. Remember, there was a time where the entire process was done live on TV. Now you don't see anything but the league rep coming out with the results already done. Let me put some more stink on it like OutCast by saying how accurate the percentages were in which every team got the pick they was supposed to get except the Wiz, the Bobcats (who was favored to get the #1) and the New Orleans Hornets who jumped over both of them to get the number one pick. By the way, the Hornets are currently owned by the league who is ran by you know who. I can't make this up.
Let me tell you how this season ends. It'll be the Heat vs. the City in the finals. Prince James will have his coronation and his first title. Look for Stern's hit men (the officials) to play a part. It could happen because the Heat are just the better team.
Really?
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Tough Guys
"I want some nasty."
Usually when I hear a phrase like that, I think of seductive music and terrible dialogue. To hear it during a NBA conference finals game was a surprise. But in a way, I expect it from a future Hall of Fame coach in Gregg Popovich of the Spurs. During his four championship title coaching career, he has always pushed the right buttons with his team to get them to the next level. He did it again as the Spurs won their 19th straight game going into the playoffs by winning the West final opener over the Thunder. The streak ties the NBA record for longest winning streak kept alive in the playoffs.
"The heat of the game, stuff comes up," Popovich said. "So I talked to them about they've got to get a little bit uglier, get a little more nasty, play with more fiber and take it to these guys. Meaning you have to drive it, you have to shoot it." The Spurs scored 39 4th quarter points to get the win, led by Mano Ginoibli who came off the bench to score 26 points.
As young and talented as the Thunder are, in the playoffs it still comes down to defense and half court offense. You think they would have learned their lesson last year. They may need to look at some Spurs playoff games to see how a experienced, championship team does it. At the least find some nasty.
As the Heat go into their second consecutive Eastern Conference final, they have found out a lot about themselves. One is that as much as Prince James is the MVP of the league, DWade (my boy) is still the MVP of the Heat. While the Prince had the better stats over the last three games (98 points, 34 rebounds and 24 assists vs. 99, 22 and 11), it still took #3 and his 41 point performance in the game 6 clincher for the Heat to advance. Miami also showed that they could bang with the Pacers, as Indiana tried to go gangsta wild with it like Avon from the Wire with their physical play. The Heat even showed that they could dish it out with Dexter Pittman doing his Mo Lucas impersonation on Lance Stephenson, finding out it's easier to flash the choke sign on the bench than to choke on a elbow in a game.
This series against Boston might actually be the one in which the light bulb goes on. With last night's game, James and DWade did their thing, but the difference was the bench. They didn't have to do much, but when you have Mike & Scotty (oops, sorry) this might be a very short series.
As young and talented as the Thunder are, in the playoffs it still comes down to defense and half court offense. You think they would have learned their lesson last year. They may need to look at some Spurs playoff games to see how a experienced, championship team does it. At the least find some nasty.
As the Heat go into their second consecutive Eastern Conference final, they have found out a lot about themselves. One is that as much as Prince James is the MVP of the league, DWade (my boy) is still the MVP of the Heat. While the Prince had the better stats over the last three games (98 points, 34 rebounds and 24 assists vs. 99, 22 and 11), it still took #3 and his 41 point performance in the game 6 clincher for the Heat to advance. Miami also showed that they could bang with the Pacers, as Indiana tried to go gangsta wild with it like Avon from the Wire with their physical play. The Heat even showed that they could dish it out with Dexter Pittman doing his Mo Lucas impersonation on Lance Stephenson, finding out it's easier to flash the choke sign on the bench than to choke on a elbow in a game.
This series against Boston might actually be the one in which the light bulb goes on. With last night's game, James and DWade did their thing, but the difference was the bench. They didn't have to do much, but when you have Mike & Scotty (oops, sorry) this might be a very short series.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Passing the Torch
I have to ask this question cause I'm supposed to be a sports guy. I know that this is going to be blasphemous to Lakers fans, but I gotta ask: Is it time to pass the clutch mantle from the Black Mamba to the DC wunderkind from Oak City, Kevin Durant?
While Kobe has had to do with less (or has he?), he still has kept up his end of the bargain, averaging a solid 31.2ppg for the series. Point is, he never got a chance to show his killer side in the series. The Lake Show looked a step slower then the New Jacks from the Thunder. Did the Lakers really miss Lamar that much?
On the flip side, KD showed off. He clinched game four with a pure looking three-pointer over World Peace and averaged a solid 26 plus points per game his self. This will be his second Western Conference final in a row and that's coming off his third straight regular season scoring title. The only thing that keeps me from thinking that he is a George Gervin "Iceman" reincarnation is that he dunks. What makes this more amazing is that he is doing this with a shooting point guard in Westbrook.
While Kobe has had to do with less (or has he?), he still has kept up his end of the bargain, averaging a solid 31.2ppg for the series. Point is, he never got a chance to show his killer side in the series. The Lake Show looked a step slower then the New Jacks from the Thunder. Did the Lakers really miss Lamar that much?
On the flip side, KD showed off. He clinched game four with a pure looking three-pointer over World Peace and averaged a solid 26 plus points per game his self. This will be his second Western Conference final in a row and that's coming off his third straight regular season scoring title. The only thing that keeps me from thinking that he is a George Gervin "Iceman" reincarnation is that he dunks. What makes this more amazing is that he is doing this with a shooting point guard in Westbrook.
Now, I'm not comparing histories here. I know that Kobe is not done, but the Lakers are going to have to do some serious retooling to step up (Can you say Bynum for Howard straight up?). I also have to say that the Godfather's hand (Stern) is in this. What if Chris Paul had been allowed to come to the Lakers? Meanwhile, the City has seemed to pass the Lakers by like the Pharsyde. If KD leads them to the title this year led by KD, I'm just sayin.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Chuck
The Washington Nationals have the bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth with the score tied with Ryan Zimmerman at the plate. 3-2 count. The pitch...home run!! The Nats win!!! As Zimmerman rounds the bases, the team's home run celebration song chimes in: Bustin Loose, sung by DC icon Chuck Brown.
Chuck Brown left us yesterday at the age of 75.
Since the 1960's Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-Go music, has loved his hometown of DC and we loved him right back. Here is the Wikipedia definition of Go-Go:"...a blend of funk, rhythm and blues, and early hip-hop, with a focus on lo-fi percussion instruments and funk-style jamming in place of dance tracks, although some sampling is used. As such, it is primarily a dance hall music with an emphasis on live audience call and response. Go-go rhythms are also incorporated into street percussion." I don't know about that definition, but for me, like Dick Clark used to say, it has a good beat and you can dance to it.
When I think of Chuck, I don't think of his classic big hit; I go back a little farther to my teenage days. I'm talkin bout the impromptu street parties where we would be hoopin late night around Giraud street in Northwest DC (76 - 79) and Chuck and his crew would just stop by, set up and just start partying until like 1 or 2 in the morning. People would litterly be in the streets go-go' in. I'm also talkin bout the classic old skool blue light in the basement house parties when you started paying attention to girls. Almost every Washintonian in every part of the city has a similar story. When the news ran his story last night, they shot it from the Lincoln theater when there (I want to say) were thousands of people in the streets showing respect.
Yep, Chuck was that large. I can only imagine the size of the funeral.
Now before you think that Go-Go is just a DC thing, let me pull your coat. In the mid-1990s, he performed the theme music of Fox's sitcom The Sinbad Show which later aired on The Family Channel and Disney Channel. He has been sampled by rappers such as Nelly (#1 hit Hot in Herre) and Eve. In 2009, the block of 7th Street in Northwest Washington, DC between Florida Avenue and T Street (not far from me) was renamed "Chuck Brown Way" in his honor. On September 4, 2011, Brown was honored by the National Symphony Orchestra (what?) , as the NSO paid tribute to Legends of Washington Music Labor Day concert - honoring Brown's music, as well as Duke Ellington and John Phillip Sousa - with a free concert on the West Lawn of the Capitol. Brown and his band capped off the evening with a performance. Here's just a taste:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=6Vwk_FYcTGU&NR=1
In 2005, he was named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts. He has also been nominated for a Grammy for the song "Love" , a song he did with Jill Scott and Marcus Miller from the album We Got This.
I have only scratched the surface of his contribution to both the music and DC landscape. While it's long overdue, it's time for Chuck to get into the music Hall of Fame.
In closing, I only have one more thing to say: "Wind me up Chuck." - R.I.P.
Since the 1960's Chuck Brown, the Godfather of Go-Go music, has loved his hometown of DC and we loved him right back. Here is the Wikipedia definition of Go-Go:"...a blend of funk, rhythm and blues, and early hip-hop, with a focus on lo-fi percussion instruments and funk-style jamming in place of dance tracks, although some sampling is used. As such, it is primarily a dance hall music with an emphasis on live audience call and response. Go-go rhythms are also incorporated into street percussion." I don't know about that definition, but for me, like Dick Clark used to say, it has a good beat and you can dance to it.
When I think of Chuck, I don't think of his classic big hit; I go back a little farther to my teenage days. I'm talkin bout the impromptu street parties where we would be hoopin late night around Giraud street in Northwest DC (76 - 79) and Chuck and his crew would just stop by, set up and just start partying until like 1 or 2 in the morning. People would litterly be in the streets go-go' in. I'm also talkin bout the classic old skool blue light in the basement house parties when you started paying attention to girls. Almost every Washintonian in every part of the city has a similar story. When the news ran his story last night, they shot it from the Lincoln theater when there (I want to say) were thousands of people in the streets showing respect.
Yep, Chuck was that large. I can only imagine the size of the funeral.
Now before you think that Go-Go is just a DC thing, let me pull your coat. In the mid-1990s, he performed the theme music of Fox's sitcom The Sinbad Show which later aired on The Family Channel and Disney Channel. He has been sampled by rappers such as Nelly (#1 hit Hot in Herre) and Eve. In 2009, the block of 7th Street in Northwest Washington, DC between Florida Avenue and T Street (not far from me) was renamed "Chuck Brown Way" in his honor. On September 4, 2011, Brown was honored by the National Symphony Orchestra (what?) , as the NSO paid tribute to Legends of Washington Music Labor Day concert - honoring Brown's music, as well as Duke Ellington and John Phillip Sousa - with a free concert on the West Lawn of the Capitol. Brown and his band capped off the evening with a performance. Here's just a taste:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&v=6Vwk_FYcTGU&NR=1
In 2005, he was named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts. He has also been nominated for a Grammy for the song "Love" , a song he did with Jill Scott and Marcus Miller from the album We Got This.
I have only scratched the surface of his contribution to both the music and DC landscape. While it's long overdue, it's time for Chuck to get into the music Hall of Fame.
In closing, I only have one more thing to say: "Wind me up Chuck." - R.I.P.
Friday, May 11, 2012
Game 7, Part Two
Ever since my high school days, hockey has always had a special place in my sports heart. We were playing floor hockey during P.E. class and, from what I learned from watching on TV, hip-checked a opponent into the bleachers. Waiting for the whistle, there was none. It was legal. I've been in love ever since. If football and basketball are my main squeezes, than hockey is defiantly my side piece.
So I am awaiting with baited breath for tomorrow's game 7 matchup between the #1 seeded New York Rangers and my Washington Capitals with the winner advancing to the conference finals. The Caps, who have already exceeded expectations this year, defeated the defending Stanley Cup champions Boston Bruins in an earlier seven game rumble. This current series has been just as intense. To be honest, football players don't have anything on hockey players physically. You think it's hard to getting hit on the football field, think about getting hit by a guy who was skating at almost 100 miles an hour. Like the emperor from the movie Gladiator said, "Again...and again...and again." With less equipment.
Now, you won't get any extensive pre-game analysis from me, how it's all about line matchups and taking advantage of the power play opportunities. For me, just score more goals than the other team.
So I dare you to watch just a couple of minutes of tomorrow's game. I double dare you.
So I am awaiting with baited breath for tomorrow's game 7 matchup between the #1 seeded New York Rangers and my Washington Capitals with the winner advancing to the conference finals. The Caps, who have already exceeded expectations this year, defeated the defending Stanley Cup champions Boston Bruins in an earlier seven game rumble. This current series has been just as intense. To be honest, football players don't have anything on hockey players physically. You think it's hard to getting hit on the football field, think about getting hit by a guy who was skating at almost 100 miles an hour. Like the emperor from the movie Gladiator said, "Again...and again...and again." With less equipment.
Now, you won't get any extensive pre-game analysis from me, how it's all about line matchups and taking advantage of the power play opportunities. For me, just score more goals than the other team.
So I dare you to watch just a couple of minutes of tomorrow's game. I double dare you.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Spirit
Some stories I just never get tired of. They just speak to the power of the human spirit and remind me that we are part of a world community.
Eric LeGrand was a defensive tackle for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. On October 16th, 2010, LeGrand suffered a severe spinal injury in a game versus the Army Black Knights. It was determined that he was paralyzed from the neck down. Less than three months later, he regained movement in his shoulders and sensation throughout his body. By July, he was tweeting pictures of himself standing upright and was regaining strength in his arms. The following October, he led his team on the field in their home game against West Virginia:
It was Sports Illustrated's best moment of last year. But this is not the end of the story.
Yesterday, LeGrand was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a NFL contract. As the Bucs said, "LaGrand is a athlete, not was." The gesture was made by his old coach, Greg Schiano, who is now the head coach of the Bucs. “Leading up to the draft, I couldn’t help but think that this should’ve been Eric’s draft class,” Schiano said in the team’s statement. “This small gesture is the least we could do to recognize his character, spirit and perseverance. The way Eric lives his life epitomizes what we are looking for in Buccaneer Men.”
Eric LeGrand was a defensive tackle for the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. On October 16th, 2010, LeGrand suffered a severe spinal injury in a game versus the Army Black Knights. It was determined that he was paralyzed from the neck down. Less than three months later, he regained movement in his shoulders and sensation throughout his body. By July, he was tweeting pictures of himself standing upright and was regaining strength in his arms. The following October, he led his team on the field in their home game against West Virginia:
It was Sports Illustrated's best moment of last year. But this is not the end of the story.
Yesterday, LeGrand was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to a NFL contract. As the Bucs said, "LaGrand is a athlete, not was." The gesture was made by his old coach, Greg Schiano, who is now the head coach of the Bucs. “Leading up to the draft, I couldn’t help but think that this should’ve been Eric’s draft class,” Schiano said in the team’s statement. “This small gesture is the least we could do to recognize his character, spirit and perseverance. The way Eric lives his life epitomizes what we are looking for in Buccaneer Men.”
When I read stories like this, it speaks volumes about the guy even though I never met the guy personally. At the least he earned the respect of both his teammates and the coaching staff. Again, that sprit thing.
Call it favoritism, call it publicity or call it whatever you want. For me, i'll just call it alright.
BreezyG also wishes a solemn Rest In Peace to future Hall of Famer Tiaina Baul "Junior" Seau Jr. We like to keep it on the field on this sports page, so simply put his achievements included his 12 Pro Bowl appearences and membership on the 1990's All-Decade team as well as the San Diego Chargers hall of team team. Off the field, he headed the Junior Seau Foundation, which has the mission to educate and empower young people through the support of child abuse prevention, drug and alcohol awareness, recreational opportunities, anti-juvenile delinquency efforts and complimentary educational programs.
I'll always remember his on field fire. He played every play as if was his last. My only off the field question is, Why?
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Gettin the fever
The Klingons (for you Trekkies) have a saying: "Today is a good day to die." I'd like to do a different spin on that and say that today is a good day to be a DC sports fan.
What got me going? Well, for starters, I saw my Washington Capitals hockey team defy the odds and beat the defending Stanley Cup Boston Bruins in overtime in game seven of their first round series. The Caps actually beat the Bruins for the third time in their ice rink in the series. It's just a shame that the Bruin fans showed no class in the loss by hurling racial slurs at Joe Ward, who scored the winning goal, after the game.
My major league baseball team, the Nationals, are sporting a gaudy 14-4 record, the best in baseball. A Washington team hasn't had a start like this since the 1930's. The Nats, who currently have a five game winning streak, have been led by their pitching staff, which includes reinvented hurlers Gio Gonzales (2-0, 1.52 ERA) and home grown ace Stephen Strasburg, who is 2-0 and has a 1.08 ERA.
Even the Wizards have won their last five games, including wins over the junior varsity squads of the Heat and Bulls. The streak, which is their longest since 2007, is a win-win: while the team takes the momentum into the off-season, it also doesn't impact their place in the upcoming draft lottery. They will have the second best opportunity (20%) to get the number one pick. Here's a BreezyG prediction: If we get either Anthony Davis or Kidd-Gilcrest in this year's draft, look for the Wiz to make a pitch for Kentucky head coach Calipari.
What got me going? Well, for starters, I saw my Washington Capitals hockey team defy the odds and beat the defending Stanley Cup Boston Bruins in overtime in game seven of their first round series. The Caps actually beat the Bruins for the third time in their ice rink in the series. It's just a shame that the Bruin fans showed no class in the loss by hurling racial slurs at Joe Ward, who scored the winning goal, after the game.
My major league baseball team, the Nationals, are sporting a gaudy 14-4 record, the best in baseball. A Washington team hasn't had a start like this since the 1930's. The Nats, who currently have a five game winning streak, have been led by their pitching staff, which includes reinvented hurlers Gio Gonzales (2-0, 1.52 ERA) and home grown ace Stephen Strasburg, who is 2-0 and has a 1.08 ERA.
Even the Wizards have won their last five games, including wins over the junior varsity squads of the Heat and Bulls. The streak, which is their longest since 2007, is a win-win: while the team takes the momentum into the off-season, it also doesn't impact their place in the upcoming draft lottery. They will have the second best opportunity (20%) to get the number one pick. Here's a BreezyG prediction: If we get either Anthony Davis or Kidd-Gilcrest in this year's draft, look for the Wiz to make a pitch for Kentucky head coach Calipari.
The coup de grace is tonight when a new era in Redskins football begins when we take Robert Griffin III (aka RG3) with the second pick in tonight's NFL draft. The Heisman trophy winner will step right into Skins madness. In a recent blog (3/12), I said I was all in. Nothing changed. The crazy Skins fan in me is already planning for the Super Bowl party while the rational one just wants .500 for the year.
Now excuse me while I have some of this tasty kool-aid.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Thug Life
The Lake show took on a WWF feel this past weekend as Metta World Peace (aka Ron Artest) did a impressive Hulk Hogan pile driver impersonation by delivering a solid elbow to the side of James Harden's head, causing a concussion that he still has not recovered from as of yet. As I talked with my boyz yesterday, Peace didn't mean to hit him....but did mean to hit him. Sounds confusing, but that's Ron Artest. As a former athlete in a previous life, looking at the replay, if you played enough sports, you have a feel of when someone is near you in that situation. After all, he wasn't a teammate.
Let's talk about that. I think he gave his hitman a(nother) break. Yes, I am citing his past, which includes the famous rumble at the Palace in Detroit eight years ago as well as his seven game bid for his no contest plea on domestic violence charges in 2007. As one of my crew put it, if this was civil court, we would all be doing serious time. But in the world of athletic competition, talent is amitigating factor. I also must say the he actually has cleaned up his act considerably. He won the league's top citzenship award last year even though he did give J.J. Barea a forearm during the playoffs last year, earning him a one game suspension. That aside, he has kept his nose clean.
Here's the hustle they didn't tell you about: while Peace loses that cash, that's only his regular season salery. According to a former NBA player, he doesn't lose any playoff money. So if the Lakers get through the first round in five games or more, that's all he pays. The league doesn't touch any playoff cash youearn .
My opinion, he should either get ten games or be out as long as Harden is out with his concussion, whichever is greater.
For his latest transgression (his 13th = 111 games) Peace earned a seven game suspension. This will cost him nearly $348,000 in salary and will keep him out for most of the Laker's first round matchup. Guess David "The Godfather" Stern laid down the law didn't he?
Let's talk about that. I think he gave his hitman a(nother) break. Yes, I am citing his past, which includes the famous rumble at the Palace in Detroit eight years ago as well as his seven game bid for his no contest plea on domestic violence charges in 2007. As one of my crew put it, if this was civil court, we would all be doing serious time. But in the world of athletic competition, talent is a
Here's the hustle they didn't tell you about: while Peace loses that cash, that's only his regular season salery. According to a former NBA player, he doesn't lose any playoff money. So if the Lakers get through the first round in five games or more, that's all he pays. The league doesn't touch any playoff cash you
My opinion, he should either get ten games or be out as long as Harden is out with his concussion, whichever is greater.
Peace.
Monday, March 12, 2012
RGIII
To use the poker vernacular: I'm all in.
My Washington Redskins are going for it. They are giving up their first round picks for the next three years, and a second rounder this year in exchange for the Rams #2 pick in this year's upcoming draft. Unless the Colts do the Okey-doke with their #1 pick, the Skins will pick Heisman Trophy winner QB Robert Griffin III from Baylor. As I told my sports crew in a text (cause I don't Tweet), I'm wi' it. Not I'm with it; i'm wi' it.
For Skins fans, we have seen this movie before. We make a big splash in the off season, whether we sign Albert Hanesworth or Donavan McNabb. The bad part is that the Koolaid always tasted so good at the time only to upset my stomach later.
Having said that, there is something different about this flavor of Koolaid. In the past, most of the decisions to get players were made by owner Dan Snyder. Since December 2009 we have had an actual General Manager (Bruce Allen) who has made our football decisions. His quality picks included OT Trent Williams and Ryan Kerrigan, who are both current starters. The owner has seemed not to get involved in the decision making process.
In fact, this strategy has worked recently. While it was a shotgun trade, the New York Giants gave up their draft picks to get QB Eli Manning who has since won three divisional titles and two Super Bowls in his eight year career. My point is that successful teams usually have (at the least) solid, if not great quarterbacks.
Now I understand that it may take a couple of years before seeing the benefits, but that's ok. We got to start somewhere.
My Washington Redskins are going for it. They are giving up their first round picks for the next three years, and a second rounder this year in exchange for the Rams #2 pick in this year's upcoming draft. Unless the Colts do the Okey-doke with their #1 pick, the Skins will pick Heisman Trophy winner QB Robert Griffin III from Baylor. As I told my sports crew in a text (cause I don't Tweet), I'm wi' it. Not I'm with it; i'm wi' it.
For Skins fans, we have seen this movie before. We make a big splash in the off season, whether we sign Albert Hanesworth or Donavan McNabb. The bad part is that the Koolaid always tasted so good at the time only to upset my stomach later.
Having said that, there is something different about this flavor of Koolaid. In the past, most of the decisions to get players were made by owner Dan Snyder. Since December 2009 we have had an actual General Manager (Bruce Allen) who has made our football decisions. His quality picks included OT Trent Williams and Ryan Kerrigan, who are both current starters. The owner has seemed not to get involved in the decision making process.
In fact, this strategy has worked recently. While it was a shotgun trade, the New York Giants gave up their draft picks to get QB Eli Manning who has since won three divisional titles and two Super Bowls in his eight year career. My point is that successful teams usually have (at the least) solid, if not great quarterbacks.
Now I understand that it may take a couple of years before seeing the benefits, but that's ok. We got to start somewhere.
Monday, March 5, 2012
Bountygate
Goodell comin. Doesn't have the same ring as stick-up boy Omar from the Wire, but if you're in the NFL, it might as well be the same. The current league commissioner is about to bring the hammer down to current Rams defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. He is accused of paying his defensive players for big-time hits of opposing players; bigger paydays to those that knock players out the game. Apparently, somebody just spilled the beans (probably from his last team, the Saints) and apparently provided the league "smoking gun" evidence.
To the players, this is nothing new. These so called "bounties" have been around for years. The main reason that it is a issue now is that there is an emphasis by the league on safety. I'm sure that the league was looking for a case to sink their teeth into. Looks like they have found their poster boy in Williams. Unfortunately, in this case, timing is not everything.
Now I actually believe the players when they say that they didn't go out to intentionally hurt or injure opposing players. Skins LB London Fletcher says that such conduct is contrary to the NFL "Brotherhood":"We all play this game. We're trying to make money, support our families. This is our livelihoods. To go out and intentionally hurt someone, that's not the mind set." Having said that, the real question is, "Who can tell?" The nature of the game in it self makes it hard to tell. Using another Wire reference, the game is the game.
Having said that, what should the punishment be? Now it must be said that the Saints were warned earlier and they said they would take care of it. My call would be half the season for Williams, couple of draft picks (including a 1st rounder) and of course cash, both out of his and the teams pocket. Anything else would be uncivilized.
To the players, this is nothing new. These so called "bounties" have been around for years. The main reason that it is a issue now is that there is an emphasis by the league on safety. I'm sure that the league was looking for a case to sink their teeth into. Looks like they have found their poster boy in Williams. Unfortunately, in this case, timing is not everything.
Now I actually believe the players when they say that they didn't go out to intentionally hurt or injure opposing players. Skins LB London Fletcher says that such conduct is contrary to the NFL "Brotherhood":"We all play this game. We're trying to make money, support our families. This is our livelihoods. To go out and intentionally hurt someone, that's not the mind set." Having said that, the real question is, "Who can tell?" The nature of the game in it self makes it hard to tell. Using another Wire reference, the game is the game.
Having said that, what should the punishment be? Now it must be said that the Saints were warned earlier and they said they would take care of it. My call would be half the season for Williams, couple of draft picks (including a 1st rounder) and of course cash, both out of his and the teams pocket. Anything else would be uncivilized.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
My Pick
It's like Sammy told Malcolm X from the movie of the same name about his boss West Indian Archie: My rep is on the line. After a great start picking the playoff games, it has come down to this year's Super Bowl for my picking success for this year. I'm at .500 going into this matchup.
If you were expecting detailed analysis and solid position breakdown of this game, you came to the wrong place. I'll just tell you who I think will win and why.
I went against my formula and picked the 49ers over the Giants in the NFC title game. Last year I started the BreezyG Mo Train. This was the team that I thought was on a roll and was the team that had the serious momentum (get it?) going into the playoffs. Last year's team was the Packers. My candidate for this year was the Saints, who were on their Whootie who tour. But once again, they could not win a road playoff game.
My Super Bowl pick this year is the New York Giants. Beside not losing a game in more than two months, they are this year's road warriors. They have the elite QB (that's right, I said it) in Eli Manning, enough of a running game and i'll stack their receivers corps against the Pats. Their defense is powered by their pass rush, which is (maybe) comparable to the Steelers front four from back in the day...isn't it?
Now on the other side, a famous journalist used to say that the Pats have Tom Brady and, quite frankly, that's all they need. Still kind of the case. But the Patriots still have a underrated running game and solid (and experienced) receivers crew. Still think that Ocho Sinko will play a part in this game. I think Brady is giving everybody the fake-out, concerned e-mail from his wife aside. He will be ready. The Pats problem will be keeping the New York Funky Four off of him.
So this year, stayin with my formula and picking the team that's on the Mo Train and got the swag: The G-Men.
If you were expecting detailed analysis and solid position breakdown of this game, you came to the wrong place. I'll just tell you who I think will win and why.
I went against my formula and picked the 49ers over the Giants in the NFC title game. Last year I started the BreezyG Mo Train. This was the team that I thought was on a roll and was the team that had the serious momentum (get it?) going into the playoffs. Last year's team was the Packers. My candidate for this year was the Saints, who were on their Whootie who tour. But once again, they could not win a road playoff game.
My Super Bowl pick this year is the New York Giants. Beside not losing a game in more than two months, they are this year's road warriors. They have the elite QB (that's right, I said it) in Eli Manning, enough of a running game and i'll stack their receivers corps against the Pats. Their defense is powered by their pass rush, which is (maybe) comparable to the Steelers front four from back in the day...isn't it?
Now on the other side, a famous journalist used to say that the Pats have Tom Brady and, quite frankly, that's all they need. Still kind of the case. But the Patriots still have a underrated running game and solid (and experienced) receivers crew. Still think that Ocho Sinko will play a part in this game. I think Brady is giving everybody the fake-out, concerned e-mail from his wife aside. He will be ready. The Pats problem will be keeping the New York Funky Four off of him.
So this year, stayin with my formula and picking the team that's on the Mo Train and got the swag: The G-Men.
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