Thursday, January 31, 2013

Serena Williams tweets pic of swollen ankle

Serena Williams mentioned a litany of injuries she has been dealing with during the Australian Open after she was ousted by Sloane Stephens in the tournament?s quarterfinals this week ? a match that featured Serena doing her best ?HULK SMASH!? impression at the expense of a innocent racquet ? and on Wednesday night she decided to tweet compelling evidence of at least one of the maladies she had been suffering through. Tweeting ?Ouch,? Serena uploaded the above ghastly image to Twitter. Ouch, indeed. Egad, man. What is going on with her ankle. Does she have elephantiasis or something? Whatever it is, once again, hoo boy, that ain?t right. [via @serenawilliams] TweetThe post Serena Williams tweets pic of swollen ankle, and hoo boy, it ain?t right (photo) appeared first on Sportress of Blogitude.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/serena_williams_tweets_pic_of_swollen_ankle_and_hoo_boy_it_aint_right_photo/12742258

Oklahoma City Thunder Sacramento Kings

Bogut returns for Warriors!

Check out some of the highlights from Andrew Bogut's first game back from injury since early November as he showcases the impact he can have for Golden State by making some big plays on both ends of the floor!
From: NBA
Views: 38777
724 ratings
Time: 01:22 More in Sports

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8IzoG1tuvc&feature=youtube_gdata

Milwaukee Bucks Houston Rockets

Serena Williams shares picture of her swollen ankle

Serena Williams shared a picture on her Twitter account Wednesday night of her swollen right ankle and, as you can see, the area is massive in size. Williams didn?t add much context to the photo, only writing ?ouch? in her tweet. We don?t know when the picture was taken, but what we do know is that Williams rolled her right ankle during her first-round match at the Australian Open last week. She managed to reach the quarterfinals despite the ankle problem, but the swelling coupled with back spasms may have contributed to her three-set loss to Sloane Stephens on Wednesday in Melbourne. Photo credit: Twitter/Serena Williams The post Serena Williams shares picture of her swollen ankle appeared first on Larry Brown Sports. Related posts: Serena Williams smashes her racquet during loss (Video) Serena Williams rolls ankle in first-round match (Video) Serena Williams Puts up Provocative Twitter Picture

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/serena_williams_shares_picture_of_her_swollen_ankle/12739843

Dallas Cowboys Denver Nuggets

Djokovic dances after winning Australian Open

Early Sunday morning Novak Djokovic celebrated his third straight Australian Open championship with a victory over Andy Murray in 4 sets.� Djokovic became the first man in the Open era (since 1968) to win 3 Aussie titles in a row. During Djokovic?s celebration he broke out some fancy footwork.� ESPN?s announce team called it a ?jig? but we are thinking that Novak was trying to deliver his version of the Crip Walk. The post Novak Djokovic Celebrates Australian Open Victory With Terrible Dance Moves appeared first on Ride The Pine.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/novak_djokovic_celebrates_australian_open_victory_with_terrible_dance_moves/12765220

Boston Celtics Denver Broncos

Wednesday, January 30, 2013

Pau Gasol pissed again over benching

The Los Angeles Lakers won their third-straight game on Tuesday by beating the New Orleans Hornets 111-106, but one of their key players is once again upset he was benched. � �

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/pau_gasol_pissed_again_over_benching/12791890

Utah Jazz Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Raptors get Rudy Gay in 3-way trade

Getty Images As Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports reported, the Toronto Raptors have acquired Rudy Gay from Memphis in a three-team trade involving the Memphis Grizzlies and the Detroit Pistons. Memphis Gets: Ed Davis Tayshaun Prince Austin Daye 2nd round pick Toronto Gets: Rudy Gay Hamad Haddadi Detroit Gets: Jos� Calder�n Rudy Gay is currently averaging 17.2 points and 5.9 rebounds this season. Haddadi is averaging 1.2 points and 1.8 rebounds per game. The Memphis Grizzlies will clear an estimated $37 million over the course of two years. The Toronto Raptors are currently 11th in the Eastern Conference with a record of 16-29. Calder�n is set to become a free-agent after this year is completed. Featured Image Credit:�http://www.kanyetothe.com

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/raptors_acquire_rudy_gay_in_three_team_trade/12797035

Los Angeles Lakers San Francisco 49ers

Ed O?Bannon Plaintiffs Score Major Victory Over NCAA in Legal Proceedings, Can Claim Live Broadcast Revenue

Ed O’Bannon Plaintiffs Score Major Victory Over NCAA in Legal Proceedings, Can Claim Live Broadcast Revenue
The NCAA is careening toward an existential crisis.

Source: http://www.thebiglead.com/index.php/2013/01/30/ed-obannon-plaintiffs-score-major-victory-over-ncaa-in-legal-proceedings-can-claim-live-broadcast-revenue/

Milwaukee Bucks Houston Rockets

Now that's the Tiger we all remember

Any questions?

Tiger Woods may or may not be back -- whatever that means -- but throughout the longest of Sundays on the Southern California coast, he was once again the champion he used to be.

Woods played 25 holes at a soggy Torrey Pines in 6-under par and, with 11 holes left in his final round at the Farmers Insurance Open, takes a commanding six-shot lead into the Monday finish.

It's been a virtuoso, vintage performance by Woods, who will surely win for the eighth time on a course he's loved since he was a boy, and one that's served to quiet wagging tongues.

John Senden, a normally circumspect Australian with one Tour win, started Sunday four shots behind Woods, but didn't think the tournament was over.

"You really do never know what can happen," he said.

"At the end of the day, as comfortable as he is, he's still a golfer just like us so anything is possible."

Anything may be possible, but it's impossible to imagine a middle-of-the-pack player calling ou

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/golf/article_external/now_thats_the_tiger_we_all_remember/12770935

New York Knicks Detroit Pistons

Djokovic, Azarenka to play at BNP

Four-time winner Roger Federer and top-ranked Victoria Azarenka will defend their titles at the BNP Paribas Open in March, with the deep fields also including Novak Djokovic, Rafael Nadal and Maria Sharapova.

The tournament runs March 4-17.

Federer, Djokovic and Nadal have combined to win eight of the last nine men's titles in the desert. Also entered are Andy Murray, David Ferrer, Tomas Berdych, Juan Martin del Potro and Jo-Wilfried Tsonga. It could be a big early test for Nadal, who plans to return from a seven-month layoff Feb. 4.

On the women's side, the field includes Agnieszka Radwanska, Angelique Kerber, Li Na, Petra Kvitova, Sam Stosur, Caroline Wozniacki and American Sloane Stephens, who upset Serena Williams at the Australian Open.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/djokovic_azarenka_to_play_at_bnp/12764800

St. Louis Rams Minnesota Timberwolves

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Serena Williams tweets pic of swollen ankle

Serena Williams was definitely not 100% when she lost to Sloane Stephens in the Aussie Open earlier this week. She was having back issues, and now we find out her ankle wasn?t exactly in perfect shape either. Serena took to Twitter to show off the picture of her ankle following her defeat. Ouch is right. Ouch mob.li/_nxDCj ? Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) January 24, 2013 var conf_57530 = { APIKey: '2_N1YlfjHIEAtyRAK3CAYRE5a1aBuANuMOCLc_7hsOQ13HnwCrW_u-6OuDhjC7vR06 ', lang : 'en', enabledProviders: '' }; var image57530 = {src:'http://cdn.cosbysweaters.com/wp-includes/images/blank.gif',href:'http://cosbysweaters.com/2013/01/24/serena-williams-shows-off-ridiculously-swollen-ankle-following-aussie-open-exit/',type:'image'}; var ua_57530 = new gigya.services.socialize.UserAction(); ua_57530.setUserMessage(''); ua_57530.setLinkBack('http://cosbysweaters.c...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/serena_williams_shows_off_ridiculously_swollen_ankle_following_aussie_open_exit/12741823

Portland Trail Blazers Carolina Panthers

Bernard Tomic Loses Licence

Sometimes it feels like we are keeping a Bernard Tomic gossip website, such is the bad behavior of the Gold Coast brat. Just as Tomic was looking to be changing his ways after coming through a lacklustre draw to win the Sydney ATP tournament and a decent if not sparkling third round Australian Open appearance, twenty year old Tomic has been caught speeding on the Gold Coast. Having sold his bright orange BMW after a string of driving offenses early last year, Tomic was caught in a bright yellow Ferrari driving at 78km/h on a 60km/h zone Tuesday (AU time). Due to his other driving offences, Tomic will lose his licence. Following a spat with Pat Rafter, Tomic was dropped from the Davis Cup team, which has headed to China to play against Chinese Taipei. Had Tomic been in the team, he may still have a driver's licence. Knowing his passion for fast cars, this could be the ultimate wake-up-call Rafter was hoping for.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/bernard_tomic_loses_licence/12780679

Utah Jazz Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Ohio State Buckeyes Recruiting: Why Trey Johnson Is Team's Most Crucial Recruit

Trey Johnson isn’t the most highly-touted recruit to commit to the Ohio State Buckeyes. He’s just the most important.

Urban Meyer has, per usual, assembled a stellar recruiting class down in Columbus. And Trey Johnson was the biggest commit of them all.

There are commits ranked above him but, in terms of importance, no one else compares. Urban Meyer needed Johnson.

Ohio State has a tradition of linebacking excellence. There have been guys like A.J. Hawk, James Laurinaitis and, most recently, Ryan Shazier locking down the position for the Buckeyes. Those are some pretty big names.

But that strength has the potential to become a major weakness, both this season and beyond it. Shazier is the only returning starter at the position, and the team desperately needs to find players who can give him some support

It’s not like the Buckeyes don’t have any options when it comes to filling the gaps at linebacker—they do. In fact, the Buckeyes have some really talented guys who could step up and fight for the spot.

The problem is that, to this point, none of those options have proven to be anything other than unreliable at best.

There’s a lot of names and a lot of potential. Curtis Grant, Josh Perry, Jamal Marcus, Camren Williams, David Perkins—they will all be competing for spots. But none of them are proven.

On the surface, Grant and Perry appear the most ready to step in and fill the void, but both have some big question marks.

Grant (ESPN’s No. 3 inside linebacker in 2011) is about as talented as they come at the position, but there are major concerns about his ability to adapt to the Buckeyes’ complex system. And while Perry got some burn last season, he’s still essentially completely untested.

Johnson is (obviously) as unproven as the rest of them, but he’s a superb athlete and gives Meyer what he needs most—insurance.

Even if Johnson doesn’t play this season, he’s the most highly-touted linebacker that the Buckeyes have landed in years—since Grant, in fact. Once Shazier graduates or heads to the pros, Meyer is going to need someone to build around defensively, and Johnson can be that guy.

Unless one of Ohio State’s reserves makes an astonishing leap forward, Johnson is the only recruit, or linebacker on the roster, that you would feel confident saying that about. By all accounts he’s the real deal, and he’ll give the Buckeyes defense some punch in the future.

He has a shot at seeing the field early, but even if he doesn’t, Trey Johnson is the Buckeyes' biggest recruiting get this season.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1506700-ohio-state-buckeyes-recruiting-why-trey-johnson-is-teams-most-crucial-recruit

Denver Broncos Houston Texans

WWE Raw Results: Winners, Twitter Reaction and Highlights from January 28

The WWE knows how important it is to have a great follow-up edition of Raw after an amazing pay-per-view like the 2013 Royal Rumble, and the company started the road to WrestleMania 29 off with a bang.

New WWE Champion The Rock and Brock Lesnar and Chris Jericho; oh my!

It’s clear that the next three months of programming will be some of the most entertaining all year, but the early start to these returns means the company is not just blowing out the PPVs each month, they are blowing out each edition of Raw leading up to these events.

While there were slow points in Monday’s episode of Raw—something that happens frequently during a three-hour broadcast—the fact that the biggest names in the business are back where they belong means the road to WrestleMania will be unforgettable.

 

Raw Results from Jan. 28 (via WWE.com)

CM Punk addressed the WWE Universe.

Randy Orton defeated U.S. Champion Antonio Cesaro in a Guest Referee Match.

Ryback defeated The Prime Time Players in a Make Me Laugh Challenge.

Bo Dallas defeated Intercontinental Champion Wade Barrett in a Player’s Choice Match.

John Cena defeated Cody Rhodes and named his World Title challenge at WrestleMania 29; The Shield attacked.

Brodus Clay and Tensai competed in a dance-off.

World Heavyweight Champion Alberto Del Rio and Big Show’s Body Slam Challenge descended into chaos.

Divas Champion Kaitlyn vs. Tamina Snuka went to a No Contest.

CM Punk interrupted The Rock’s championship address to the WWE Universe.

Sheamus defeated Damien Sandow in a Tables Match.

3MB crashed Zack Ryder and The Great Khali’s Karaoke Challenge.

WWE Tag Team Champions Team Hell No defeated Dolph Ziggler & Chris Jericho in a “Strange Bedfellows" Match.

Mr. McMahon performed Paul Heyman’s performance evaluation; Brock Lesnar returned.

 

Brock Is Back

The WWE Universe knows that it is now on the official road to WrestleMania 29, and the company proved it Monday night by bringing former MMA and WWE champion Brock Lesnar back to television for another run and letting him attack Vince McMahon.

Question on Everyone’s Mind: Will Triple H Stand Up for his Dad?

There is no question that Lesnar will face repercussions for attacking and breaking the pelvis of Mr. McMahon (h/t WWE.com), and the person most likely to seek revenge will be McMahon’s son-in-law Triple H. With this being the easiest way to rekindle their feud leading into WrestleMania, the fans should expect to see Triple H back on TV soon enough defending the honor of his father-in-law.

Twitter Reaction

WWE’s official Twitter account broke the news that the chairman of the WWE Vince McMahon has suffered serious injuries at the hands of Lesnar:

Nationally syndicated radio show, Ring Rust Radio, talks about what Lesnar’s appearance means and the company’s purpose behind bringing Brock back:

 

WWE Championship Scene

There is a strong contingent of fans that hate the fact that The Rock walked out of the Royal Rumble with the WWE Championship, but it is clear that the company made the right move giving the title to a man they know will do his best to sell the product.

Question on Everyone’s Mind: Will CM Punk Get Redemption?

As much as the WWE Universe would love to see Punk take the title right back at Elimination Chamber, The Rock will likely not relinquish the belt until he finally drops it to John Cena at WrestleMania 29. That means Punk will not avenge this loss against The Rock until 2014 at the earliest. That is, if he ever gets another shot at the current WWE champ.

Twitter Reaction

Despite all of the drama and chaos that follows The Rock everywhere he goes as an international superstar, the new WWE Champion took time to tweet a photograph that shows just how much this return to the WWE means for the legend:

While there is so much going on in the WWE title scene—everything from Brock Lesnar’s attack, The Shield’s alliance with Paul Heyman and the No. 1 contender CM Punk—legendary announcer Jim Ross foreshadows what should be a wild stretch of WWE programming:

 

For more wrestling talk, listen to Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot topics you just can’t miss (some language NSFW).

Listen to internet radio with RingRustRadio on Blog Talk Radio

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1506128-wwe-raw-results-winners-twitter-reaction-and-highlights-from-january-28

Buffalo Bills Atlanta Hawks

Andrew Bynum Says He's Dunking

The Philadelphia 76ers got some good news about their big offseason acquisition, as Andrew Bynum dunked during his Sunday workout session. Bynum told CSNPhilly.com's John Finger:

I still haven’t done slides yet, but I dunked yesterday. That’s good. I can still do that.

As silly as it seems to celebrate a single little dunk, for a guy who hasn't been anywhere near NBA action since the playoffs last season, it's a big step in the right direction, with the end result being Bynum actually playing basketball for the 76ers.

It's been a lot of baby steps for Bynum since it was revealed that pain in his knee was more than just a slight injury.

He underwent the platelet-rich plasma therapy surgery (the one that Kobe Bryant made famous before the 2012 season) that has been used to help prevent the wearing down of knee cartilage and seems to have had an impact on guys like Bryant and Grant Hill.

There has been little signs of improvement throughout the seasons, just a lessening of pain and a bit more of an ability for Bynum to maneuver, a few more practices here and there and a constantly moving return date.

In the interview with Bynum in which he told reporters that he's able to dunk relatively pain free, he sets his sights for a return sometime after the All-Star break.

However, reports are now saying that there's a chance that Bynum could end up returning before the All-Star break:

With Bynum on the verge of returning, it seems as if the Philadelphia 76ers suddenly have a shot at making the playoffs, especially considering the recent developments at the bottom of the Eastern Conference playoff picture.

The Boston Celtics lost Rajon Rondo for the season to a torn ACL, and the odds are looking like they could blow up the team with any sign of weakness.

Given that, a playoff spot opens up at the bottom of the East, and the Sixers sit in an advantageous position in ninth, hanging around just enough so they can make a final push down the stretch once Bynum does return.

It's all going to depend upon how well he plays once he returns, and if he's actually healthy enough to stay in the game and make a positive impact.

Philadelphia is in a position to make a run, but it needs Bynum's return to be positive and permanent, so rushing him back would probably have done more harm than good. 

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1505994-andrew-bynum-says-hes-dunking

Baltimore Ravens Atlanta Falcons

Monday, January 28, 2013

Justin Upton criticized by Diamondbacks staffer

Justin Upton is now an Atlanta Brave yet Arizona Diamondbacks staffer and former player Luis Gonzalez can?t stop talking about him after the blockbuster trade. �
Please Click Here To Read This Story
The post Justin Upton criticized by Diamondbacks staffer appeared first on Players View Dot Net

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/justin_upton_criticized_by_diamondbacks_staffer/12770836

Houston Rockets Utah Jazz

Serena Williams destroys racket during upset loss (Video)

A frustrated Serena Williams smashed her racket during the third set of her quarterfinal Australian Open tennis match, where she suffered an upset loss to 19-year-old fellow American Sloane Stephens.

It happened as she went down 2-1 in the third set after returning a serve long. Williams smashed her racket on the ground twice, then threw it into the bench in disgust. Williams lost the final set 6-4.



H/T BI.
Visit us at holdoutsports.com and follow us on Twitter @HoldoutSports.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/serena_williams_destroys_racket_during_upset_loss_video/12730477

Oklahoma City Thunder Sacramento Kings

Top RB commits to Michigan

Derrick Green (Photo credit: Richmond Times-Dispatch) Michigan Football recruiting received a big boost on Saturday when 5-star running back Derrick Green (Richmond, Virginia) announced his commitment to the University of Michigan. Green is generally considered the top running back in the nation and one of the elite recruits in the 2013 class. He is a 6-foot, 220 pound wrecking ball of a runner who will thrive in the Big Ten. The�Colonial District Offensive Player of the Year, Green rushed for 1,285 yards and 20 touchdowns. He seldom played in the second half of games because his Hermitage team was so dominant and often had commanding leads early in the games. Green choose Michigan over Auburn and Tennessee. Here is an excerpt of his scouting report on ESPN Green is quick to get downhill and attack the hole and he gains momentum fast. He follows blocks well and cuts tightly off through the hole?Displays very good power to break tackles. He is an aggressive runner who drags tacklers ...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/college_football/article_external/michigan_football_recruiting_derrick_green_goes_blue/12761047

Orlando Magic Chicago Bears

Mercedes-Benz Super Bowl Commercial: Breaking Down New Kate Upton Ad

Prolific automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz released a teaser for its new high-profile commercial featuring prominent model Kate Upton, which will air during the Super Bowl next Sunday.

Upton is perhaps best known for gracing the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2012, and this ad is sure to create even more waves for both Upton and Mercedes-Benz.

The commercial depicts a slow-motion shot of Upton starting at the ground and moving all the way up to her face, capturing all of her slender 5'10" frame. She is seen wearing small jean shorts and a somewhat revealing black top.

The theme of the ad indicates that Upton will be deliberately washing the company's 2014 Mercedes CLA model car in slow motion. In the next shot, Upton is holding foamed soap in her left hand off to the side with a suggestive expression on her face. She then blows the soap from her palm and glances back toward the camera.

That then fades to a sparklingly clean, sliver-colored version of the new car, brimming with soap on the hood and dripping from the side view mirror with water.

Three men wearing red football jerseys are revealed, washing the coupe while Upton stands off to the side. They may be washing the car, but it is clear that Upton's presence has diverted their attention from the task at hand.

The gawking men are mesmerized by Upton, who flashes a closeup smile and an unwavering gaze, much to the delight of the working trio of men.

Upton then really turns up the heat, with power lines and a desert scenery behind her as she runs her hands through her hair as she approaches the car. The funniest moment occurs when one of the car washers operating the hose soaks his friend in the face across the way.

Finally, Upton delivers the punchline: "You missed a spot."

The man she tells to work harder can't help gawking once again as she walks away, and two other presumed football players do the same, fixated on Upton as they hold signs and balloons.

At the conclusion, the ad notes that more on the car can be found at Mercedes-Benz USA's official Facebook page and at MBUSA.com.

The car itself is yet another fine piece of machinery, but Upton's appearance makes this commercial one that will likely be a hot topic amongst the forthcoming Super Bowl ads.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1503819-mercedes-benz-super-bowl-commercial-breaking-down-new-kate-upton-ad

Dallas Cowboys Denver Nuggets

Djokovic dances after winning Australian Open

Early Sunday morning Novak Djokovic celebrated his third straight Australian Open championship with a victory over Andy Murray in 4 sets.� Djokovic became the first man in the Open era (since 1968) to win 3 Aussie titles in a row. During Djokovic?s celebration he broke out some fancy footwork.� ESPN?s announce team called it a ?jig? but we are thinking that Novak was trying to deliver his version of the Crip Walk. The post Novak Djokovic Celebrates Australian Open Victory With Terrible Dance Moves appeared first on Ride The Pine.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/novak_djokovic_celebrates_australian_open_victory_with_terrible_dance_moves/12765220

Washington Wizards New Jersey Nets

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Top 10 Plays of the Night: January 25th

Check out the 10 best plays from an action-packed Friday night including Dwyane Wade's amazing putback slam, Manu Ginobili's pass through the legs of the defense & Kevin Durant's coast-to-coast slam....but none of those plays could compete with a shot you have to see to believe by a fan in Miami!
From: NBA
Views: 131663
2954 ratings
Time: 02:43 More in Sports

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkxzSJsQpKY&feature=youtube_gdata

Cleveland Browns Dallas Cowboys

Jeff Green has huge dunk on Chris Bosh

During the fourth quarter of the Celtics and Heat match-up on Sunday afternoon Chris Bosh landed himself on a nice poster. Jeff Green of the Celtics threw down one of the nastier dunks we have seen this year, and Chris Bosh was the victim. Check out how high Green gets above the rim and how he is able to finish without thinking twice of hurting Chris? feelings. [Bleacher Report] var conf_57839 = { APIKey: '2_N1YlfjHIEAtyRAK3CAYRE5a1aBuANuMOCLc_7hsOQ13HnwCrW_u-6OuDhjC7vR06 ', lang : 'en', enabledProviders: '' }; var image57839 = {src:'http://cdn.cosbysweaters.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/dunk.gif',href:'http://cosbysweaters.com/2013/01/27/jeff-green-throws-down-monster-dunk-on-chris-bosh-video/',type:'image'}; var ua_57839 = new gigya.services.socialize.UserAction(); ua_57839.setUserMessage(''); ua_57839.setLinkBack('http://cosbysweaters.com/2013/01/27/...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/jeff_green_throws_down_monster_dunk_on_chris_bosh/12767500

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Milwaukee Bucks

Ray Allen returns to Boston to face the slumping Celtics

Ray Allen is sitting on top of the world. His Miami Heat are on a hot-streak and they are the current kings of the Eastern Conference.
His good fortune is just another reason why he will be a hated man when he walks into �the Celtics TD Bank Garden on Sunday.
Please Click Here To Read This Story
The post Ray Allen returns to Boston to face the slumping Celtics appeared first on Players View Dot Net

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/ray_allen_returns_to_boston_to_face_the_slumping_celtics/12762376

Charlotte Bobcats Oakland Raiders

Toddler golfer a better golfer than you

And I must not neglect pointing out that he already is a far, far superior golfer than I dare dream to ever be. Which is kind of sad. But the truth. Nice form and everything. Gee whiz. Look forward to this kid taking the PGA by storm in a few years. Or because of the pressure of capitalizing on his vast potential, experiences a Todd Marinovich-style�flame-out. Ah, I kid, I kid. Now, if you?ll excuse me, with this impressive demonstration, I have yet another video to watch where I try to glean some tips on how to improve by abysmal game. Sigh. [H/T BuzzFeed] TweetThe post At 17 months old, this toddler is a better golfer than you or any of your pals (video) appeared first on Sportress of Blogitude.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/golf/article_external/at_17_months_old_this_toddler_is_a_better_golfer_than_you_or_any_of_your_pals_video/12742564

Oklahoma City Thunder Sacramento Kings

Is This the Year for Bill Self and the Kansas Jayhawks?

We?re used to seeing the Kansas Jayhawks playing through March and into April.� It shocks no one when year in and year out, Bill Self has his team in the Elite 8, Final 4, and National Title game.� In Lawrence, Kansas, Self has all of the tools he needs to build an elite program.� The [...]

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/college_basketball/article_external/is_this_the_year_for_bill_self_and_the_kansas_jayhawks/12759943

Orlando Magic Chicago Bears

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Baltimore Orioles sign Jair Jurrjens to one year deal

The Baltimore Orioles and Jair Jurrjens have come to terms on a one-year contract for 2013. Jurrjens was non-tendered by the Braves earlier this offseason.
Jurrjens will have a base salary of $1.5 million, incentives could push the deal to $4 million reports CBSsports..
Last season Jurrjens was 3-4 with a 6.89 ERA at the big league level and spent a good part of the year in the minors. Orioles GM Dan Duquette is hoping that Jurrjens can fill a spot at the back-end of the Orioles rotation.
Jurrjens dealt with a knee injury last season and is one year removed from being a member of the NL All-Star team. He was 13-6 with a 2.96 ERA in 2011.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/baltimore_orioles_sign_jair_jurrjens_to_one_year_deal/12751720

Atlanta Falcons New York Knicks

Cashman: A-Rod might miss season

Alex Rodriguez hasn?t been the same player for a couple of years now, and now the New Yok Yankees might not be getting a glimpse of him at all in 2013. Last week, A-Rod underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum. Doctors have given him an initial prognosis of 6 months to recover. While speaking to WFAN in NY, General Manager Brian Cashman did not put to rest the idea that the Yankees could play the entire season without A-Rod in the lineup. ?Yeah, I think because of the serious nature of the surgery and the condition he?s trying to recover from, ya know, there is that chance,? Cashman said Friday morning. ?I would say it?s not going to be because Alex doesn?t do everything in his power to put himself in a position to get back and be healthy and productive.? Cashman doesn?t believe that?s a likely scenario, but because the injury presents ?unique circumstances ? he cannot discard it either. ?Best-case scenario he should be back, worst-case scenario he won?t be back or there might be

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/cashman_a_rod_might_miss_entire_season/12753877

St. Louis Rams

Time For The Philadelphia Flyers To Go All In On P.K. Subban

The�Philadelphia Flyers�finally won a game on Thursday, avoiding the hysteria that surely would have followed if they lost another one. But that doesn?t mean this team is still without its problems. Obviously, the most glaring need on this team is on the blue line. Even before�Andrej Meszaros�left Thursday?s tilt, this was a defensive corps that [...]

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nhl/article_external/time_for_the_philadelphia_flyers_to_go_all_in_on_pk_subban/12748702

Los Angeles Clippers Boston Celtics

Friday, January 25, 2013

Arsenal Visits Brighton in the FA Cup: 4th Round Match Preview

After destroying West Ham 5-1 on Wednesday in league play and taking care of Swansea City in the previous round of the FA Cup, Arsenal will take on Brighton in the fourth round tomorrow morning. 

The visit to Amex Stadium will be difficult, no doubt about it. And with another trophy at stake, expect manager Arsene Wenger to select a strong starting XI. 

The Gunners will be going into the match with a little bit of momentum and positivity—things that haven't been present in large quantities this season—which will give fans of the cannon some hope. Because of that, it will be a thrilling game.

With that in mind, here are five reasons why you should watch Arsenal take on Brighton.

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Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1501955-arsenal-visits-brighton-in-the-fa-cup-4th-round-match-preview

Atlanta Hawks San Antonio Spurs

Lakers had heated team meeting

Tweet With things already looking bleak for the 17-24 Los Angeles Lakers, the team reportedly held a meeting before shootaround Wednesday to hash out some of their issues per the L.A. Times. During the meeting, players were asked to speak up, with Kobe Bryant specifically asking first-year Lakers center Dwight Howard if Dwight had a [...]

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/lakers_held_team_meeting_wednesday_where_kobe_confronted_dwight_howard_about_playing_together/12737098

Oakland Raiders Cincinnati Bengals

NFL Draft 2013: Running Backs Who Will Be Instant Starters

Every team needs a running back and there will be plenty available in the NFL Draft 2013. However, which players will be instant starters?

Let's take a look at which running backs have the tools to be starters right away.

 

Giovani Bernard, RB, North Carolina

Giovani Bernard is probably the best running back in this class. 

The redshirt sophomore rushed for 1,228 yards and 12 touchdowns. He has a great combination of speed and power and projects as a star at the next level.

Bernard will likely be the first running back selected and could be taken in the first round. Wherever he's taken, his speed and power will allow him to start immediately. 

 

Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama

Eddie Lacy has had a fantastic career for the Crimson Tide and will continue that in the NFL.

The 6'1", 200-pound back ran for 1,322 yards and 17 touchdowns.

He came to play when it mattered most. In the SEC Championship game against Georgia, Lacy ran for 181 yards and two touchdowns. In the BCS National Championship game against Notre Dame, Lacy ran for 140 yards and a touchdown.

He's a power runner who excels between the tackles and is tough to bring down. His running style will make him a fan favorite and an instant starter in the NFL. 

 

Joseph Randle, RB, Oklahoma State

Joseph Randle is an explosive running back who was incredibly productive.

In the last two seasons in Stillwater, Randle has scored a remarkable 40 touchdowns.

He's capable of breaking off big runs—he had two over 60 this year. 

The 6'1", 200-pound back has the size and strength to go between the tackles, and the speed and quickness to break it outside. He's the complete package.

Look for Randle to be a second-round pick and to start instantly. 

 

Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin 

Montee Ball was an absolute workhorse for the Badgers and will continue to be at the next level.

In his career, Ball rushed for 5,140 yards and 77 touchdowns.

He's a bell cow and has a great ability to run through the tackles. He's tough to bring down and fights for extra yards. 

Ball projects a starting running back who can carry the ball 20-plus times and excel in short-yardage situations. Ball may not be picked until the middle rounds, but the team that does select him is getting an instant starter. 

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1501351-nfl-draft-2013-running-backs-who-will-be-instant-starters

New Jersey Nets Tennessee Titans

Cheerios items a no-go at Garden

Thursday night is the first time the Knicks and Celtics share the same court following the Celtics? 102-91 win on Jan. 9 at Madison Square Garden. That game was �highlighted by an on-court altercation between�Kevin Garnett and�Carmelo Anthony, ending with the Knicks? forward waiting outside the Boston locker room after the game. In days following the verbal battle in New York, Anthony claimed Garnett said to him that Anthony?s wife, La La tasted like Honey Nut Cheerios, a claim with Doc Rivers�has denied. Anthony prepared for this night accordingly. The All-Star forward added security as he made the trip to Boston, rightfully anticipating a hostile TD Garden crowd.�And while Anthony?s sure to endure some verbal jabs from the Celtics? faithful, the signage in the arena is sure to be much tamer thanks to TD Garden security. According to the New York Daily News, Cheerios boxes and signs were confiscated before the game, limiting the amount of the amounts of taunting directed at Anthony...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/cheerios_signs_boxes_confiscated_at_td_garden_in_wake_of_kevin_garnett_carmelo_anthony_feud/12747604

Toronto Raptors Los Angeles Clippers

GRAND-AM: Montoya Leads Opening Practice At Daytona

Chip Ganassi Racing Riley-BMW tops Practice 1 for Rolex 24 at Daytona...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/motor_sports/article_external/grand_am_montoya_leads_opening_practice_at_daytona/12741928

Chicago Bulls Toronto Raptors

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Wesley Sneijder completes move to Galatasaray

Dutch midfielder Wesley Sneijder has completed his move to the Turkish club Galatasaray following a contract dispute with Inter Milan.

The 28-year-old signed a 3 1/2-year deal Tuesday. Sneijder says he had several transfer offers but chose Galatasaray, which he described as a ''top club'' and ''still in the Champions League.''

Sneijder joined Inter Milan in 2009 and helped it win several trophies. In November, Inter technical director Marco Branca said Sneijder would not play until he made a decision about his future.

Thousands of Galatasaray fans greeted Sneijder on his arrival in Istanbul on Monday.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/soccer/article_external/wesley_sneijder_completes_move_to_galatasaray/12725212

Atlanta Hawks San Antonio Spurs

Streakiest Shooters in the NBA

Though the "hot-hand theory" is often disputed, some players at the very least, seem to get into a game-warping rhythm. Those same players can shoot their squads out of competition with errant, maddening, contested jumpers. 

These are the streak shooters, guys who operate almost entirely without a conscience. You hate them or love them, depending on the game.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1500219-streakiest-shooters-in-the-nba

Los Angeles Lakers San Francisco 49ers

The Kentucky Wildcats ? Despite the Loss to Alabama ? Will Still Make the NCAA Tournament

The Kentucky Wildcats – Despite the Loss to Alabama – Will Still Make the NCAA Tournament
Kentucky will likely need to beat Florida once to lock themselves in the field.

Source: http://www.thebiglead.com/index.php/2013/01/23/the-kentucky-wildcats-despite-the-loss-to-alabama-last-night-will-still-make-the-ncaa-tournament/

Chicago Bulls Toronto Raptors

NBA Nightly Highlights: January 22nd

Take a whip around the league & check out highlights from all the games on NBA Fan Night, including the showdown in Los Angeles between the two top teams in the Western Conference!
From: NBA
Views: 34467
497 ratings
Time: 01:18 More in Sports

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed8EQD4WHRU&feature=youtube_gdata

New Jersey Nets Tennessee Titans

Serena Williams Hits Her Own Face in 2013 Australian Open (Video)

Serena Williams may be one of the best tennis players in the world. But in this week?s Australian Open, her return stroke did more than clobber a ball.
In a second-round match, the 31-year-old tracked down a loose ball hit by Spanish teen Garbine Muguruza. The aftermath of the vicious swing cost her a shot to the lip.
?I just busted�it, busted it wide open,? Williams said after the match, laughing.
Williams has never had an injury quite like this one. Check it out in the video below.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/serena_williams_hits_her_own_face_in_2013_australian_open_video/12732574

Buffalo Bills Atlanta Hawks

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Nets preparing Howard trade offer?

Right now, this should be considered just a rumor, but there are a couple of things that should be noted before you completely dismiss it. Dwight for whatever reason still has a thing for Brooklyn, that is why he has never come out and said 100% he will re-sign with Lakers. Secondly, Kevin Love would love to play in LA and isn?t happy in Minnesota. �With that being said this would be very complicated to pull off, but here are the parameters of the trade as laid out by�Jarrod Rudolph/RealGM. The Brooklyn Nets are preparing to make another run at Dwight Howard, according to a source. Nets general manager Billy King has closely monitored the struggling Lakers and quietly searched for a third team with an attractive piece that would help facilitate a trade that would deliver Howard to the Nets, according to sources. King, according to sources, was confident that he had a trade proposal that was a perfect fit for all teams involved.� According to sources, King was planning to contact the Minnesota Timberwolve

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/report_nets_prepare_trade_offer_for_dwight_howard_using_t_wolves_kevin_love_as_bait/12724858

Chicago Bulls Toronto Raptors

NBA Nightly Highlights: January 22nd

Take a whip around the league & check out highlights from all the games on NBA Fan Night, including the showdown in Los Angeles between the two top teams in the Western Conference!
From: NBA
Views: 20399
372 ratings
Time: 01:18 More in Sports

Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed8EQD4WHRU&feature=youtube_gdata

Denver Broncos Houston Texans

Analyzing 5 Potential New York Jets Salary Cap Casualties in the 2013 Offseason

Freddie Kreuger isn't as much of a nightmare as the New York Jets salary cap situation is heading into this offseason.

Over the 2013 cap by $19.4 million (via ESPN), the Jets have a lot of work to do in order to get back into plus territory. They'll have to do even more if they want to sign all of their 2013 draft picks.

There could be a lot of turnover (no pun intended, Mark Sanchez) and that goes beyond just the guys that might be cut. Every year, there are decisions to be made, whether it is because a player has under-played his salary or was simply not able to stay healthy long enough to justify the numbers. 

There are a few easy moves that the Jets can make to help them get closer to cap stability, and their issues with the salary cap should be the primary concern this offseason.

A "cap casualty" could mean a player being released or his contract being restructured. Either way, the message is the same: the dollars don't make sense, and the Jets need to do something to fix it.

So who are some of the players that the Jets could cut in order to alleviate their cap issues? Here are my thoughts.

 

All salary information provided by NYJetsCap.com.

Begin Slideshow

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1496297-analyzing-5-potential-new-york-jets-salary-cap-casualties

Washington Redskins Cleveland Cavaliers

Bielema, Wisconsin fans in Twitter war

Bret Bielema may be into his 2nd month as head coach at Arkansas, but it sure seems like he can't leave Wisconsin behind quite yet.... at least on Twitter. You see the man that professed being humble, doing the right thing, and being smart on Twitter, well that same man has ben engaged in a not-so humble or smart "Twitter War" with the fine folks of the Badger State.� ?@rcorn: @bretbielema Go Badgers, you're a trader.?Hope as a father of 4 you begin to think before you tweet stupid things. #GoHogs #1-0 ? Bret Bielema (@BretBielema) January 2, 2013 There were two ways Bielema and his wife, Jen, could've handled it. First they could've just ignored the trolling statements from unhappy, celebratory, or mocking Wisconsin fans and moved on. Or.... Instead, they've apparently decided to show their true colors to Badger fans, burning their final bridges to a school, a football program, and athletic director that gave him his start as a hand picked su...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/college_football/article_external/bielema_vs_wisconsin_fans_a_hypocritical_twitter_war/12727297

Charlotte Bobcats Oakland Raiders

Nets preparing Howard trade offer?

Right now, this should be considered just a rumor, but there are a couple of things that should be noted before you completely dismiss it. Dwight for whatever reason still has a thing for Brooklyn, that is why he has never come out and said 100% he will re-sign with Lakers. Secondly, Kevin Love would love to play in LA and isn?t happy in Minnesota. �With that being said this would be very complicated to pull off, but here are the parameters of the trade as laid out by�Jarrod Rudolph/RealGM. The Brooklyn Nets are preparing to make another run at Dwight Howard, according to a source. Nets general manager Billy King has closely monitored the struggling Lakers and quietly searched for a third team with an attractive piece that would help facilitate a trade that would deliver Howard to the Nets, according to sources. King, according to sources, was confident that he had a trade proposal that was a perfect fit for all teams involved.� According to sources, King was planning to contact the Minnesota Timberwolve

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/nba/article_external/report_nets_prepare_trade_offer_for_dwight_howard_using_t_wolves_kevin_love_as_bait/12724858

Los Angeles Lakers San Francisco 49ers

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Red Sox Rumors: Boston Eyeing Pirates? Garrett Jones?

With the Boston Red Sox in the market for a left-handed
option at first base and in the outfield, Tom Singer of MLB.com wonders if the
club would be interested in Pittsburgh Pirates slugger Garrett Jones.

With #RedSox still shopping for a lefty-hitting 1B-OF -- ring any bells? -- you have to wonder if #Pirates will make another run at Iglesias
? Tom Singer (@Tom_Singer) January 20, 2013






Jones put together a solid 2012 campaign for the Pirates,
hitting .274/.317/.516 with 28 doubles, three triples and 27 home runs over 475
at-bats for the club. The 31-year-old owns a career line of .259/.321/.466 over
five seasons at the major league level.



Perhaps more importantly for the Red Sox, Jones has a career
split of .279/.348/.504 against right-handed pitchers. Boston is said to be
seeking a potential left-handed bat that can play first base and the corner
outfield positions to help spell Mike Napoli and Jonny Gomes. Both Napoli and Gomes
have superior nu...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/red_sox_rumors_boston_eyeing_pirates_garrett_jones/12713728

Lenny Wilkens New England Patriots

Serena rolls ankle in win

(January 15, 2013) Despite five-time Australian Open champion Serena Williams destroying Edina Gallovits-Hall 6-0, 6-0 in her first round match at the Australian Open, the real story of the match will be the state of the American?s right ankle after a first set fall. Nineteen minutes into the match, with Williams up 4-0 in the first set with�Gallovits-Hall serving at� 15-0, Williams fell on the court grabbing her right ankle. The 15-time major champion was helped up from the court and to her chair and her right ankle was taped by a trainer. ?It was definitely a lot of pain,? said Williams. ?Also a little bit of the memory, as well.� So it was definitely a little bit of both. ?But also at the same time trying to gather myself together and trying to make sure that I can continue.? ?I think I was really, really close to panicking because a very similar thing happened to me last year, almost on the same side, the same shot,? Williams added. ?So I almost panicked, and I thought, I can?t ...

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/tennis/article_external/serena_williams_rolls_ankle_and_opponent_in_6_0_6_0_rout/12661282

Miami Heat Oklahoma City Thunder

Phil Mickelson Offers Apology for Tax Comments Sunday at Humana Challenge

Phil Mickelson stirred up the golf world with his comments, Sunday, concerning California and federal income tax laws in the higher tax brackets. His comments completely dominated the news cycle from the Humana Challenge.

The Humana offered lots of low scores on Sunday. Brian Gay shot 63 in the final round and still had to win in a playoff. The message from tournament sponsor, the Clinton Foundation, promoting health and wellness got pushed to the small print because of Mickelson’s “drastic change” statement.

Evidently his public relations team made it known to him Monday that his tax comments would be very detrimental to his image and the image of the PGA Tour.

Tiger Woods is respected but Mickelson has always been beloved by golf fans. His comments can be construed as whining and unwarranted by Americans that just cannot relate to earning $40 million annually and the inherent tax liabilities. 

Mickelson recanted his statements from Sunday. As reported by Ryan Lavner at Golf Channel, his spokesman T.R. Reinman released this apology:

I absolutely love what I do. I love and appreciate the game of golf and the people who surround it. I’m as motivated as I’ve ever been to work on my game, to compete and to win championships.

Mickelson went on, “I’m like many Americans who are trying to understand the new tax laws. I certainly don’t have a defense plan at this time, but like everyone else I want to make decisions that are best for my future and my family.”

He concluded, “Finances and taxes are a personal matter and I should not have made my opinions on them public. I apologize to those I have upset or insulted and assure you I intend to not let it happen again.”

The fact was very clear on Sunday that Mickelson is frustrated with the current tax rates and policies in California. So much so that he made comments that overshadowed a golf tournament that is trying to make a comeback and create its own buzz.

Mickelson is playing this week in the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines and will address the media Wednesday afternoon.

He will undoubtedly reinforce his apology and try to get the focus back to golf.

Should his comments be a reason for fan abuse and a poor performance by Mickelson at Torrey Pines? That is very doubtful. This is his hometown. He is very comfortable at this golf course and fans will certainly be supportive of him here.

The beneficiary of all this uproar is obviously the Farmers Insurance Open. Media attention will be focused on Mickelson and with the tour invading Torrey Pines this weekend it couldn’t have happened at a better time for this event.

By the weekend, a new Farmers Insurance Open champion will be crowned and the Mickelson tax comments will get pushed to the back pages.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1496131-phil-mickelson-offers-apology-for-tax-comments-sunday-at-humana-challenge

Cincinnati Bengals Indiana Pacers

Busch to depart team after 'Dega

???

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/all_sports/article_external/busch_to_depart_team_after_dega/11823295

Oakland Raiders Cincinnati Bengals

Wright engaged to longtime girlfriend

Chalk up another long-term commitment for New York Mets star David Wright. It was just a month ago that the third baseman officially signed an eight-year, $138 million contract extension with the club ? essentially turning him into a Met for life. On Sunday, Wright announced he was engaged to his longtime girlfriend, model Molly Beers, turning this offseason into a pretty busy one for the Mets star. No wedding date has been set, yet. The good-looking couple was seen together at Wright's fundraiser in Virginia on Friday while he hosted Vegas Night to benefit Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Wright and Beers have been dating for years and their relationship first became public when Wright threw her a birthday bash over the All-Star break in 2008. Now that he has put an engagement ring on his beautiful fiance's finger, fans are hoping he can help put a championship ring on his own.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/david_wright_gets_engaged_to_longtime_girlfriend_molly_beers/12713815

Tennessee Titans Miami Dolphins

Monday, January 21, 2013

Freddy Garcia hopes to continue big league career

Freddy Garcia appeared in 30 games last season with the New York Yankees, he had a 5.20 ERA during that span. Unable to duplicate his numbers from the previous season the right handed pitcher has been seeking a contract on the free agent market since the end of the season.
It has not gone well for Garcia.
While some have linked Garcia to teams in need of pitching, such as the Twins and Rockies, no deal has developed. The Miami Herald reported on Sunday that Garcia would have interest in playing for the Miami Marlins.
Garcia would not figure to earn more then a minor league deal wherever he goes, but Miami figures to be one of the worst teams in baseball in 2013.
The Herald also reports that Bobby Abreu is interested in a contract with the Marlins.

Source: http://network.yardbarker.com/mlb/article_external/freddy_garcia_hopes_to_continue_big_league_career/12710212

New York Giants Los Angeles Lakers