Closing Ceremony

Canada Goes Out with a Bang
2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics - Closing Ceremonies

The skies above BC Place go red as the patriotic coloured fireworks explode in the evening sky, marking an official end to the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, but also highlighting the history made in Canada.

Dartmouth Claims Fame as Top Ivy League Producer of Olympic Talent
Jeff Greer

In an effort to stake its claim on a rarely discussed battlefield, Dartmouth University wants the world to know that it has the most Winter Olympians this year in Vancouver among the Ivies -- and the most ever to compete in the Winter Olympics among Ivy League schools, too.

 

Was Tiger Woods Sincere
Cal Thomas

Some media critics think Tiger's staged event with a friendly audience that included Woods' mother, his friends and selected journalists was too perfect, too scripted and too much. Others want to wait and see if he can put his family back together and get his golf game back on track.

 

Dat Saints Super Sunday!
Super Bowl XLIV - Saints 31 Colts 17

"AIN'T DAT SOMETHING!" screamed the Miami Herald's front page the morning after the Saints defeated the Colts 31-17 in yet another exciting Super Bowl. For the third consecutive season, the Super Bowl came down to the final minutes with the trailing team within a touchdown of the lead and in possession of the ball. And for the third consecutive year, a signature play sealed the game.

 

Super Bowl XLIV: Saints 31 - Colts 17

Saints Alive!
Brees by Colts 31-17 for Super Bowl XLIV Victory
Super Bowl XLIV - Saints 31 Colts 17, Drew Brees Super Bowl XLIV MVP

Saints Quarterback Drew Brees throws pair of touchdown passes as the New Orleans Saints rally from early 10-point deficit and defeats the Indianapolis Colts 31-17. Brees awarded MVP for completing 32-of-39 with 288 passing yards, two TD passes, 0 interceptions and 114.5 passer rating.

 

Fantastic Four Ready For NFL Championship Weekend
NFL 2009 AFC & NFC Championship Weekend Preview

The NFL 2009 Playoffs are down to four teams as the Jets travel to Indianapolis to face the Colts in the AFC Championship. Meanwhile, the NFC Championship comes down to a battle in New Orleans between the Vikings and the Saints. Here's a preview of the AFC and NFC Championships plus a recap of the previous week's Divisional Playoff round

Picks, Selections & Latest Line
NFL 2009 Playoffs - AFC & NFC Championships

 

Kurt Warner

NFL's Great 8 Take Center Stage In Divisional Playoffs
NFL 2009 Playoffs Divisional Weekend Preview

The NFL 2009 Season is down to its "Great Eight" as the Divisional Round of the NFL 2009 Playoffs. On Saturday the Cardinals take on the Saints in New Orleans while the Ravens travel to Indianapolis to meet the Colts. On Sunday, the Cowboys are on the road against the Vikings while the Jets head west to face the San Diego Chargers. Here's a preview of this weekend's playoff games

What to Look For
NFL 2009 Playoffs Divisional Weekend Preview

Since the NFL moved to a 12-team playoff format in 1990, No.1 seeds in the NFC are 17-2 (.895) in the Divisional Playoffs. However, the NFC top seed has lost in the Divisional round in each of the past two seasons. Plus more NFL Playoff facts, figures and milestones.

Picks, Selections & Latest Line
NFL 2009 Playoffs - Divisional Weekend

Bowl Championship Series College Football's Biggest Problem
Joe Barton

The principal goal of the BCS is not and never was to fairly determine a national champion. It was designed to maximize revenue for its members while limiting true competition. That makes it a cartel. If you ask me, they can still call it the BCS -- just change the words to Bowl Cartel Series.

College Football Playoff Would Increase Problems
Bill Hancock

Should there be four teams? Eight? Sixteen? Wherever a line is drawn, excluded teams will inevitably start clamoring to enlarge the playoffs. That's exactly what has happened with the NCAA basketball, March Madness has grown from eight teams to 65 teams and now is under pressure to expand to 96. Joe Barton's playoff idea turns out to be more of a problem than a solution.

Expensive Lesson: Gun is Not a Joke - Gilbert Arenas
Leonard Pitts Jr.

A gun is not a joke. Maybe Gilbert Arenas gets that now. But look at what it cost him to learn: his NBA livelihood, his reputation, maybe his freedom. But even at that, you could argue that Gilbert Arenas is a lucky man.

When Good Athletes Behave Badly - Gilbert Arenas
Clarence Page

Over the years I have often had the pleasure of introducing my son to significant people as politically diverse as Barack Obama and Pat Buchanan. (Welcome to my world, kid.) He turned the tables on me one day in his early teens when he rushed across Washington's Reagan National Airport to introduce himself to basketball star Gilbert Arenas.

Tiger Woods and Disposable Gods
Robert C. Koehler

Read the tabloids -- watch the tube -- if you want to know how a society that has lost its religiosity can still engage with the deities. The eerily appropriate term 'celebrity worship' is evidence of the extent to which we've improved on Greek culture: We've invented disposable gods and our latest example is Tiger Woods

Nothing Sporting About Gossip as 'News'
Mitch Albom

Once upon a time, we looked away. If Babe Ruth was drunk at night but hit a home run during the day, only the home run was reported. That attitude has changed. As behavior got worse, journalism got more pointed. Now comes news that TMZ is sharpening its fangs for a bite into the sports business and this could take the ugliness to a whole new level

Discourse on the Golf Course
Dave Barry

You have surely noticed that a big golf craze is sweeping the nation, as aging Baby Boomers discover the benefits of participating in a sport where the most physically demanding activity is ordering putters by mail

 

NFL 2009 Playoffs Wild Card Weekend

It's Playoff Time
NFL 2009 Playoffs Wild Card Weekend Preview

"You can throw the records out now," says New York Jets tackle DAMIEN WOODY. "Once you get into the playoffs, it doesn't matter what you did in the regular season. Everybody is 0-0 right now. We're just glad we're one of the 12 teams to have an opportunity to play for it all. We're ready to go."

On Saturday, the New York Jets play at the Cincinnati Bengals (NBC, 4:30 PM ET) and the Philadelphia Eagles visit the Dallas Cowboys (NBC, 8:00 PM ET).

Wild Card Weekend continues Sunday with the Baltimore Ravens at the New England Patriots (CBS, 1:00 PM ET) and the Green Bay Packers traveling to face the Arizona Cardinals (FOX, 4:40 PM ET).

 

Jets Playoff Destiny in own hands

All on the Line as NFL 2009 Regular Season Ends
NFL 2009 Week 17

Sixteen weeks down, one to go.

"This has been one of the best years, especially at the end of the season, for teams having to fight for a playoff spot," says New York Jets running back THOMAS JONES. "It's do-or-die every game."

With one week to play, there are still 17 teams in contention for a trip to Super Bowl XLIV in South Florida.

 

Week 17 NFL 2009 Playoff Scenarios
NFL 2009 Week 17

In the AFC, for the Jets and Ravens it's win in and your in. For the the Broncos, Texans, Steelers, Dolphins and Jaguars its a bit more complicated. In the NFC, even though the six playoff teams have been determined, NFC playoff seed 2 thru 6 are still up for grabs. You'll need this playoffs scenario breakdown by your side to figure it out.

Picks, Selections & Latest Line
NFL 2009 Week 17

College Football Bowls Aren't Cash Cows They're Made Out to Be
Jeff Greer

Turns out some schools lose boatloads of money during bowl season. The biggest loss of money comes when schools purchase tickets in bulk for an upcoming bowl, only to find limited fan interest in attending

Big Ten Might Add Another Team. Who Could It Be?
Jeff Greer

We've traveled down this road before, but here we go again. The Big Ten wants to expand to 12 teams, and it will explore its options over the next 12 to 18 months

It's BCS bowl time. Here's how some football student-athletes are making waves in the classroom
Jeff Greer

For many of the student-athletes on the 68 teams playing in bowl games this year, the middle of December is a time for studying, writing papers, taking exams, and more studying. And despite what gets covered in the media, there are actually scores of big-time college football players who are making big splashes in the classrooms at their universities.

Tiger Woods
(c) M. Ryder

Tiger's Woeful Tales: Tiger Woods Scandal
Clarence Page

The accident occurred as the tabloid and celebrity media were reporting the first of what has become more than a dozen reported mistresses with whom Woods has allegedly had relations during his marriage. Comedians are having a field day. On a Top Ten list of ways Woods could improve his image, David Letterman suggested, 'Release list of women he did not have sex with.'

 

What Was Tiger Thinking?: Tiger Woods Scandal
Carl Hiaasen

Rejected first draft of a statement by Tiger Woods prepared for his Web site.

Be Grateful for Tiger Woods Affair -- It Reminds Us He's Human
John A. Farrell

Is Tiger conceited? Yup. But no more so than any other preternatural talent I have met in a career of chronicling athletes, actors, politicians, and other public figures. Fame has a terrifyingly corrosive effect on the soul.

Tiger's Troubles: Tiger Woods Scandal
Reader Comments

Hero worship is the problem, not the heroes. As a human being, chances are Tiger Woods is no better than whoever is sitting in the next room right now. If Tiger goes on to break every record in the book of golf, that's one thing. The mistake is thinking that excellence in any field, reveals anything about one's character

Mixed Emotions at Texas Christian, Boise State, Cincinnati
Jeff Greer

Death, taxes, and anti-BCS rhetoric: Those are the things we've come to expect in life. Three undefeated teams -- Texas Christian University, Boise State University, and the University of Cincinnati -- will not have a shot at the national title.

NFL Teams Sprint to Finish with 2 Weeks to Go
NFL 2009 Week 16

With two weeks to go in the NFL regular season, it’s time for teams to make their final playoff push. While six spots have been clinched – Arizona (NFC West), Indianapolis (AFC South, homefield advantage), Minnesota (NFC North), New Orleans (NFC South, first-round bye), Philadelphia (playoff spot) and San Diego (AFC West) – there are still 19 teams in contention for a trip to Super Bowl XLIV

Impressive Rookie Class Makes Presence Felt
NFL 2009 Rookies

This season, rookies have made significant contributions all over the field. Through the first 15 weeks, a total of 118 rookies have started at least one game this season, which is already among the highest totals for a season since the current seven-round draft format was implemented in 1994

Young NFL Talent Shines Bright
NFL 2009

"The talent pool for young NFL players is incredible," says NFL.com senior analyst GIL BRANDT. "I think we have a good group of young players come into the league every year, because of the good things that they do in high school and college. The guy that comes into the league today is so much stronger than ever before and so much better prepared than ever before."

Picks, Selections & Latest Line
NFL 2009 Week 16

Four Games to Go as NFL Enters Final Quarter
NFL 2009 Week 14

It’s Week 14 of the NFL season and only four games remain to decide who advances to the playoffs. And who goes is anyone’s guess as 26 teams remain in contention for a postseason berth.

Divisional Games Key to NFC Playoff Push
NFL 2009 Week 14

In Week 14, the NFL schedule features four key NFC divisional matchups with playoff implications. As teams enter the final quarter of the NFL regular season and make their push for the playoffs, divisional games in December take on vital importance.

Picks, Selections & Latest Line
NFL 2009 Week 14

The Problem with Tailgating
Mitch Albom

Look, it's bad enough that most NFL games begin at 1 p.m. and that people line up for beers before the kickoff. But with tailgating, many fans are blotto before they hand over their tickets. One day, we'll have to explain to Martians this tradition of arriving hours before a game, sitting in cold parking lots, grilling fatty foods between bumpers of pickup trucks, and swigging beers in fold-up chairs.

Wofford Terriers Coach Mike Ayers Helps His Players Win On and Off the Field
Alex Kingsbury

Sports coaches, particularly in football, hold a unique place in society. They become surrogate fathers, teachers, and role models. Hollywood often caricatures them as the demideities of small-town America. Mike Ayers is better than the average coach. He's led the Wofford team for the past 21 seasons.

Report Says Current Costs Make College Sports 'Unsustainable'
Jeff Greer

As the economic climate continues to cause universities to reassess their operating budgets, the current costs of maintaining a college athletics program--especially at the highest levels of competition--is beginning to look unsustainable, according to a recently released report

UNC Basketball Coach Roy Williams: Be Led By Your Dreams

One thing that makes college basketball so enjoyable, yet at the same time so challenging, is that each year the team is different. There are new players, and you may ask the student-athletes who return from the previous season to play new roles. Team chemistry changes, and the attitudes and relationships that ebb and flow from wins and losses always take on a new life. The constant is a need for outstanding leadership

World Series: The Pajama Game
Dave Barry

This is the time of year when Americans make a sincere effort to care about the World Series, which determines which baseball team will be the champion of the entire world, except for the part of the world located outside the United States and southeastern Canada.

 

Brett Favre

Favre Returns to Lambeau; 3 Unbeatens Most Since Merger
NFL 2009 Week 8

NFL 2009 Week 8 is here and three teams – Denver (6-0), Indianapolis (6-0) and New Orleans (6-0) – remain undefeated – the first time since the 1970 merger that the league has had three undefeated teams through the first seven weeks. Plus Brett Fvare -- who set numerous Packers records including most games (255), wins (160), attempts (8,754), completions (5,377), yards (61,655), touchdowns (442) and passer rating (85.8) -- returns to Green Bay as a Viking for the first time.

Rookie Wide Receivers Making Impact in NFC
NFL 2009

As the NFL 2009 season approaches the halfway point, rookies around the league are making their mark. In the NFC, four rookie wide receivers – Minnesota's PERCY HARVIN, Chicago's JOHNNY KNOX, Philadelphia's JEREMY MACLIN and the New York Giants' HAKEEM NICKS – have quickly adapted to the NFL, making significant contributions to their teams.

AFC's Reliable Rookies
NFL 2009

NFL coaches often preach patience, especially with rookies. Making the transition from college to pro can be just as demanding mentally as it is physically, but year after year, rookies across the NFL emerge as key contributors. A look at a few of the notable 2009 AFC rookies

Talent & Athleticism Changing Game at Safety Position
NFL 2009

Teams are looking to find players who can guard against the deep throws and disrupt receivers coming over the middle but also make the key tackles as the last line of defense. Among the checklist of things that teams look for in a safety are versatility, athleticism, toughness, speed and the ability to read and react to different offenses.

Execution is Key in Short-Yardage Situation
NFL 2009

Every inch is earned in the NFL and a physical rushing attack is required to excel in short-yardage situations. NFL Network analyst and former All-Star running back Marshall Faulk knows the importance of executing on short-yardage opportunities. Faulk totaled 12,279 career rushing yards in 13 NFL seasons (1994-2006) and says finishing on short-yardage opportunities can be the difference in a team being a pretender or contender.

Jail Behind Him, Will a New Michael Vick Finally Emerge
Steve Dale

The majority of fans contended their disgust with Michael Vick. Yet, I wonder how many season ticket holders would actually cancel, and how many would turn off their TVs on Sunday afternoons. I argue, it's a sad reality that there may be an increase in seats filled and TV ratings might shoot up, especially if the team signing Vick has little else to offer.

Baseball Hall of Fame Should Get Over Steroid Scandal
Steve Lyons

Are you sick of the steroid scandal in baseball yet? I am! And I really believe the only reason anybody cares about it at all is because the media told us to. Don't get me wrong! Steroids are now, and will continue to be, a black eye in sports, but this could have been handled and tested for in a far less public way in baseball

 

Do NCAA Division III Schools Give Athletic Scholarships
Kim Clark

To keep everyone honest, the NCAA requires each Division III school to report how much money it gives to students who play sports and how much money it gives to nonathletes. Those numbers show that athletes at Division III schools, on average, aren't getting significantly more money than nonathletes.

5 Lessons for Over-35 Athletes From Olympic Swimmer Dara Torres
Katherine Hobson

Dara Torres is a role model for those who aspire to athletic success over the age of 35. Torres took up that mantle during the run-up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics and still holds it a year later. As Dara's profile rose, people clamored to know her secrets. They want to know about how she trains, what she eats, how she managed to compete in last week's world championships against people less than half her age -- and, yes, how she has that body after giving birth to a child.

 

Michael Jordan: Life After Glory
By Mitch Albom

"This is not fun for me," Michael Jordan told reporters.

He was not being arrested. He was not being publicly humiliated. He was not being forced to fox trot on "Dancing With the Stars."

Michael Jordan had been selected for the Basketball Hall Of Fame. The pantheon of his sport.

And he was unhappy. His reason . . .

"Your basketball career is completely over. That's the way I look at it. I was hoping this day was coming in 20 more years, or that I'd actually go in when I'm dead and done...."

 

Martin Brodeur on Verge of Goaltending Greatness

Martin Brodeur made 26 saves to earn career victory 550 with a 5-2 home-ice win against the Phoenix Coyotes (March 12).

The victory gives Brodeur a shot at tying NHL & Canadiens Legend Patrick Roy's career wins record Saturday in Montreal this Saturday.

"I'm happy that we won tonight, I'm happy that I'm going to have a chance to tie him up in Montreal," Brodeur said.

"It just adds to the story. You couldn't ask for a better script."

Super Bowl XLIII: Better Than Super
Super Bowl XLIII: Steelers 27 Cardinals 23

The Super Bowl keeps topping itself.

Last year, it was Eli Manning escaping a horde of rushers to connect with David Tyree on that unreal "helmet catch."

Last Sunday in Super Bowl XLIII in Tampa Bay, it was Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger flinging a pass "I thought was going to be picked," as he described it, to Santonio Holmes, who, straining on his tiptoes, made only the latest "greatest Super Bowl catch ever" to give Pittsburgh a 27-23 victory over Arizona.

 

Tour Golfers Do Not Need Any Unwelcome Coaching
Tour Golfers Do Not Need.

Brad Gilbert Talks a Great Game
How a onetime middling tennis pro has taken Andre Agassi and Andy Roddick to the heights he never reached.

Rangers Pick a Goalie With No. 6 Selection
Al Montoya, who recently completed his sophomore year at Michigan, was the top-ranked North American goaltender in the league's central scouting rating.

Tennis Is Only a Game to the Williams Sisters
People continue to wonder if the era of Williams family dominance has prematurely ended because Serena and Venus are bored with tennis.

After 18-Month Wait, McGahee Is Ready to Run
Willis McGahee has passed the physicals, done every drill and made it through a month of minicamp practices this spring without a hitch.

Revolution Rookies Thwart MetroStars
FOXBORO, Mass., June 26 (AP) -- The rookies Felix Brilliant and Clint Dempsey scored early in the second half to lead the New England Revolution to a 2-1 victory over the MetroStars on Saturday night.

At 41, Ageless Preki Is Out but Not Down in M.L.S.
KANSAS CITY, Mo., June 26 (AP) - Preki has gone from defying time to biding it.

England Drama Has 2 American Fans
The American tennis stars Serena Williams and Andy Roddick said they had been gripped by England's dramatic defeat to Portugal.

Nicklaus Passes on the United States Senior Open
By The Associated Press.

Content With Draft, Knicks Now Look at Free Agents
Armed with a mid-level salary cap exception which will be worth slightly more than $5 million and a $1 million exception, the Knicks will be active in the free-agent market.

Federal Antitrust Inquiry Focuses on ESPN Practices
The Justice Department's antitrust division has opened an inquiry into how ESPN acquires and uses its college football and basketball programming.

Titans Take First Game Against Texas
OMAHA, June 26 (AP) - Felipe Garcia had four hits and three runs batted in and Ricky Romero pitched a solid six and two-thirds innings, leading Cal State Fullerton to a 6-4 victory over Texas in the first game of the College World Series finals Saturday night.

Devil Rays Continue Surge Past .500 Mark
By The Associated Press.

Yanks Can't Escape Psychodramas
The Yankees have become easily humanized as they lurch from one psychodrama to the next - with another one lurking.

Thome Cracks No. 26 as Phils Club Red Sox
By The Associated Press.

Halsey Walks Himself Into Defeat
Yankees starter Brad Halsey allowed five hits, seven runs and five walks, and was pulled after three and a third innings Saturday.

In Season of Surprise, Mets and Howe Show One More
If the Mets have surprised most people by winning half their games so far, Art Howe has to get credit for maneuvering them into that position.

Mixed Response to World Cup Among Major League Players
By The Associated Press.

When Boston Was Top of the Heap
The 1904 pennant race inspired an enduring rivalry with New York.

Future Is Now for Top 4 Picks
For the top four picks of last year's amateur draft, the future came quickly.

Umpires Make Pitcher Hide His Tattoos
SYRACUSE, June 26 (AP) - Wherever he pitches, Justin Miller is a marked man. Literally.

With Veteran Talent and Schmidt, Giants Recover and Answer Skeptics
Making their move early, the Giants won their last 10 games in May and have continued winning regularly.

Top Relievers Earning Saves by Putting Out Others' Fires
During the first few months of this season, teams have taken baby steps away from the bullpen model of the last two decades.

Wheldon Outsprints Castroneves in I.R.L.
RICHMOND, Va., June 26 (AP) - Dan Wheldon of Britain came from the back of the pack and held off Hélio Castroneves in a one-lap sprint to the finish to win the Indy Racing League's SunTrust Indy Challenge on Saturday night.

Lukas Filly in a Surprise at Belmont
By The Associated Press.

Oracle and Alinghi Still Alone in Front
NEWPORT, R.I., June 26 (AP) - On a sunny day on Narragansett Bay, Alinghi and Oracle were the only two America's Cup boats in sight as they raced for the UBS Trophy. Oracle came away with both the pro-driver and owner-driver trophies Saturday, defeating Alinghi in a way it could not last year in the challenger series of the America's Cup.

Formula One Seeks Way to Build Fan Base in U.S.
INDIANAPOLIS, June 26 (AP) - Formula One is the world's giant in auto racing, but in America it is barely a player.

Moses' Old Knee Injury Ends Return at Age 48
When the United States Olympic track trials take place July 9-18 in Sacramento, Edwin Moses will be far away.

Gold Medalist Still Has Something to Prove
Laura Wilkinson, who hobbled away with an improbable gold medal in 2000, is the leading hope for the United States diving team in Athens.

Salmon Fishing Is One for the Ages, Even at 92
Salmon fishing is a particular addiction, especially early in the season when the water is high and the run from the ocean is just beginning.

For Truex, Earnhardt Is a Friend and a Boss
Martin Truex leads the Nascar Busch Series points race with four victories and five poles, thanks in part to his bosses, Teresa Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Unfazed by the Law, Pocket-Bikers Roll On
The latest thing on two-wheels to explode in California is the pocket bike, a mini-motorcycle that can be bought for as little as $200. The problem is, they're unlicensed.

For Mets, a Day of Unrivaled Joy
Cherishing the opportunity to show this city how far they have come since last season, the Mets pounded the Yankees in front of 55,303 at Yankee Stadium.

A Homebody Blazes a Trail Abroad, Wrestling for Her Family and Country
Competition has lifted the 21-year-old Toccara Montgomery from tragedy, doubt, loneliness and an aching heart into world-class competition.

Unlike N.H.L., No. 1 Pick Is Ready
Washington took Aleksandr Ovechkin of Russia, making him only the second player from his country selected by the N.H.L. as the best among amateur players.

Men's Team Two-Thirds of the Way Complete
Paul Hamm and Brett McClure, who finished first and second respectively at the U.S. Olympic gymnastics trials, secured automatic bids to Athens.

Federer and Roddick Win at Sunny Wimbledon
Andy Roddick and Roger Federer reached the round of 16 at Wimbledon while thousands of fans lined up to be part of the third "People's Sunday" in 127 years.

Contreras Strikes Out 10 in Win Over Mets
Making his first start since his wife and children defected from Cuba last week, José Contreras struck out a career-high 10 in six shutout innings.

New York Times: Sports
Headlines, abstracts and links for the latest New York Times articles, for Radio UserLand.

 

LeBron, Cavaliers clinch outright Central title
LeBron James had 32 points, nine rebounds and nine assists, and the Cleveland Cavaliers clinched their second straight outright Central Division championship and third in team history, beating Indiana 99-94 on Wednesday night.

Sources: Tim Tebow workout earns him trip to NFL draft
On the heels of an impressive workout at Florida's pro day, league sources say that Tim Tebow is among those players who have been invited to New York for the NFL draft April 22-24.

Texas Rangers manager Ron Washington tested positive for cocaine in 2009
Texas Rangers manager Ron Washington apologized Wednesday in the wake of an SI.com report that said he tested positive for cocaine during the 2009 season.

Andrew Bailey of Oakland Athletics shut down with tennis elbow
Oakland Athletics closer and reigning AL rookie of the year Andrew Bailey has been shut down for five to seven days with tennis elbow, but remains optimistic he will be ready for Opening Day.

The NHL is looking into James Wisniewski's hit on Brent Seabrook
The NHL is looking into James Wisniewski's hit on Brent Seabrook

Urban Meyer back at Florida Gators practice after taking leave
Florida coach Urban Meyer is back at practice after his leave of absence.

Seattle Seahawks acquire San Diego Chargers' Charlie Whitehurst
The Seattle Seahawks and San Diego Chargers have completed a trade that sends third-string Chargers quarterback Charlie Whitehurst to Seattle for draft picks.

Seattle Mariners' Cliff Lee suspended five games for throw at Snyder
Seattle Mariners pitcher Cliff Lee has been suspended for the first five games of the regular season for throwing a pitch over the head of Arizona's Chris Snyder in an exhibition game this week.

Seton Hall Pirates fire Bobby Gonzalez as men's basketball coach
A person close to the university tells The Associated Press that Seton Hall basketball coach Bobby Gonzalez has been fired.

Blackhawks fall victim to another vicious check
Saku Koivu scored the go-ahead goal with 5:36 left in the third period, Todd Marchant had a short-handed goal and Bobby Ryan notched his 30th and 31st goals, leading the Anaheim Ducks to a 4-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday night.

Devils complete season sweep over sloppy Pens
Patrik Elias scored a breakaway goal and set up another for the New Jersey Devils, who beat the sloppy Pittsburgh Penguins 5-2 on Wednesday night and completed a six-game season sweep of their Atlantic Division rivals.

Georgia Tech hitting mute button during NCAAs
Georgia Tech players plan to give up their cell phones once again -- this time before the NCAA tournament.

Philadelphia Eagles release Shawn Andrews
The Philadelphia Eagles have released former All-Pro right guard Shawn Andrews.

Manny Pacquiao's concert canceled because of poor ticket sales
A promoter says poor ticket sales have forced the cancellation of Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao's upcoming concert Sunday in Waikiki.

Outfielder Elijah Dukes abruptly released by Washington Nationals
Outfielder Elijah Dukes has been released by the Washington Nationals, a sudden move with about two weeks left in spring training.

ESPN.com
Latest news from ESPN.com

 

Aztecs win first game in national tourney
Pima College women's basketball coach Todd Holthaus wondered how his team would play after a nearly two-week layoff before the junior college national tournament.

With UA gone, you can cheer others on
Larry David's character on "Curb Your Enthusiasm" was once given a most unusual birthday present from his wife — permission to have an affair, once.

A-to-Z: From Chase's stomper to Cal's shot stopper
Let's play six degrees of separation.

Chambers is learning to see through her vision problems
Stacie Chambers led the nation in home runs and RBIs last season with one eye closed.

Street may start year on DL
Considered a favorite to win the NL West, the Colorado Rockies likely will begin the season without closer Huston Street.

Ironwood Ridge finds winning form in event
Ironwood Ridge's baseball season went ugly immediately, a four-game losing streak raising tensions in a program that made the 5A-II quarterfinals last May and that is expecting to advance further this spring.

correction
• The Catalina High boys volleyball team beat Catalina Foothills in the TUSD tournament earlier this month. The result was referenced and incorrect Wednesday on B4 in "Catalina dominant in win over Falcons."

UA routs Shockers for 8th straight win
Robert Refsnyder arrived at the UA last fall oozing with athleticism.

Cal starter Amoke suspended
BERKELEY, Calif. — California starting forward Omondi Amoke has been suspended indefinitely by coach Mike Montgomery for a violation of team rules, a blow for the eighth-seeded Golden Bears heading into their NCAA opener against ninth-seeded Louisville on Friday in Jacksonville, Fla.

Strong field set for event in Florida
PGA TOUR

James helps Cavs clinch 2nd straight Central title
CLEVELAND — LeBron James had 32 points, nine rebounds and nine assists, and the Cleveland Cavaliers clinched their second straight outright Central Division championship and third in team history, beating Indiana 99-94 on Wednesday night.

DUGOUTS
STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

Saunders confident he will be ready
TEMPE — Joe Saunders continues to rebound from a rough spring training start.

Grapefruit League
WIRE REPORTS

Cardinals agree to two-year deal with Anderson
PHOENIX — Derek Anderson is joining the Arizona Cardinals knowing he begins as the backup quarterback to Matt Leinart, with a chance to push for the starting job.

SPORTS ON THE AIR
TV TODAY

All-Star race to have four-tire pit stop
CONCORD, N.C. — NASCAR has added a mandatory four-tire pit stop to the format of the Sprint All-Star Race.

Nadal overcomes big server; Roddick turns back Melzer
INDIAN WELLS, Calif. — Rafael Nadal restored order on a day of upsets with a 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 fourth-round victory over big-serving John Isner at the BNP Paribas Open on Wednesday — after Novak Djokovic and Elena Dementieva were ousted.

Sports
Sports headlines from the Arizona Daily Star

 

Angels end Yankees' title hopes
The Los Angeles Angels beat the New York Yankees 5-3 to advance to the American League Championship Series.

Last-gasp Steelers beat Chargers
Jeff Reed's late field goal gives Pittsburgh a 24-22 win at San Diego in the NFL's Monday night game.

Houston prevail in marathon game
Houston beat Atlanta 7-6 to take a winning 3-1 lead in their play-off series.

Vinatieri seals late Patriots win
New England Patriots leave it late to beat Atlanta Falcons - plus an NFL round-up.

Houston capture series advantage
Houston Astros beat Atlanta Braves 7-3 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

Red Sox reign ended by Chicago
Chicago White Sox take a 3-0 series lead to end Boston Red Sox's reign as world champions.

Cardinals extend lead over Padres
St Louis Cardinals beat San Diego Padres 6-2 to move 2-0 ahead in the National League Division Series.

Miami to stage 2010 Super Bowl
Miami is chosen to host a record 10th NFL showpiece match in 2010.

NFL to continue European league
NFL team owners vote to continue to fund and provide players for NFL Europe for five more years.

Gretzky beaten as NHL faces off
Wayne Gretzky loses on his coaching debut as a new NHL season begins after last year was wiped out in a salary-cap row.

Iguchi hit ruins Red Sox's night
Tadahito Iguchi's three-run homer spells disaster for Boston in Chicago, while Houston and LA Angels also win.

Jets turn to old hand Testaverde
Veteran quarterback Vinny Testaverde is to start for the injury-hit New York Jets against Tampa Bay on Sunday.

A's release manager Macha

Red Sox go down to heavy defeat
Boston are thrashed by Chicago on day one of the play-offs while the Cards and the Yankees start with wins.

Carolina hold off Green Bay rally
Brett Favre shines but cannot prevent the Green Bay Packers suffering their worst NFL start in 17 years.

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Live - Europa League
Fulham take on Juventus and Liverpool host Lille, both looking to overturn deficits and reach the Europa League quarter-finals.

Big Buck's cruises to Hurdle win
Hot favourite Big Buck's wins his second successive World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival.

France coach attacks racist fans
France coach Marc Lievremont hits out after receiving letters claiming Guadeloupe-born back Mathieu Bastareaud shows a lack of allegiance to France.

Pietersen wary of Hawk-Eye effect
Kevin Pietersen believes the increasing use of technology in cricket will force batsmen to adjust their techniques.

Monza to keep Italian Grand Prix
The Italian Grand Prix will remain at Monza until 2016 after a deal between Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone and the historic track's managers.

Riera hits out at manager Benitez
Liverpool winger Albert Riera says he is considering leaving the club after being given the silent treatment by boss Rafael Benitez.

Lloyd resigns as GB Cup captain
John Lloyd resigns as Great Britain's Davis Cup captain in the wake of the humiliating defeat by Lithuania.

Boss Johnson leaves Bristol City
Bristol City manager Gary Johnson leaves his position at Ashton Gate by mutual consent.

Shawcross defends playing style
Stoke defender Ryan Shawcross says he will not alter his style of play despite the challenge which broke Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey's leg.

Murray through but Djokovic exits
Andy Murray reaches the quarter-finals of the BNP Paribas Open after opponent Nicolas Almagro retires injured, but Novak Djokovic is sent crashing out.

McLeish in Blues contract talks
Birmingham manager Alex McLeish begins negotiations over a new contract at St Andrew's.

Crusaders deny Henson link
Crusaders boss Brian Noble dismisses reports that Gavin Henson is considering an offer to switch to rugby league.

Abramovich wins libel case
Chelsea's owner accepts libel damages and an apology from La Repubblica newspaper over false claims of a gambling problem.

TeamOrigin out of Louis Vuitton
British crew TeamOrigin are out of the Louis Vuitton Trophy after failing to qualify for the semi-finals.

Thursday's gossip column
Chelsea to tempt Liverpool's Torres, plus other rumours

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World Number-One Golfer Tiger Woods Returns
In statement released on his website Tuesday, Woods announces his return after four-month hiatus

NBA Organizes Basketball Training in Senegal
Group of NBA players and coaches will travel to Dakar in August for first Basketball Without Borders workshop

Construction for Commonwealth Games Takes Toll on India’s Children
Many exposed to work site dangers, live in squalid conditions, lack adequate care

World Cup Organizers Praise South African Stadiums
Delegation of senior football and political figures deliver their endorsement of preparations at new stadium in Durban

Winter Olympics Conclude in Vancouver
Games end on a high note for host country Canada who takes gold in final event, a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory in men's ice hockey

World Cup Organizers Inspect South African Stadiums
Tuesday marks 100-day countdown to kick-off for football's biggest event

Canada Concludes Vancouver Olympics With Thrilling Ice Hockey Win Over US
Victory gives Canada 14 total gold medals, the most of any nation in the history of the Winter Games

Canada Edges US, Takes Gold in Final Day of Olympic Speedskating
Canadian team of Morrison, Makowsky, Giroux beat Hedrick, Hansen, Kuck by 21-100ths of a second

US Ends 62-Year Drought in 4-Man Bobsled
US four-man bobsled team, captured gold medal Saturday at Vancouver Winter Games

Olympic Athletes Promote Sports in Developing World with 'Right To Play'
Athlete-based international humanitarian organization using spotlight to help promote sports, well-being in poorest parts of the planet

Demong Wins Gold, Proposes, Carries US Flag in Vancouver
American Nordic Combined skier Billy DeMong chosen to carry flag in closing ceremonies for US team Sunday at Winter Olympics

Canada Beats USA 2-0 to Win Olympic Gold in Women's Hockey
Win earns Canada its eighth gold medal of the Vancouver Games, the nation's highest ever Winter Olympic total

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Russia's deputy sports minister quits
Fallout from Vancouver flop continues

Michigan-Notre Dame set as Big House's night debut
2011 showdown will have a different feel

Slow suits, slow times at Australian trials
Benchmarks plummet as textile replaces polyurethane

Jones's rink looks for world curling title on home ice
Skip aims to take advantage of receiving a close-up look at some of her competitiors at the Olympics

Barcelona, Man United head Champions League draw
Six nations represented in last 8 teams as quarter-final match-ups to be set Friday

Cavaliers clinch division title
Cleveland locks up second straight Central Division crown with 99-94 victory over the Indiana Pacers

Redskins sign Grossman
Former Bears quarterback inks one-year contract

League reins in promise of quick head-shot rule
Immediate focus to be on discipline, senior vice-president of hockey operations says

Chan takes inspiration from Lysacek’s rise to gold
Canadian says Olympic champion's story has helped him 'feel better and move on' after a disappointing fifth-place finish

Canucks get some business done down on the farm
Vancouver calls up one former first-round pick and signs another to pro contract

10-man TFC come up short
DC United beats Toronto FC 1-0 at Carolina Challenge Cup

Beckham's star power will be missed
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Canucks get some business done down on the farm
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League reins in promise of quick head-shot rule
Immediate focus to be on discipline, Campbell says

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Maple Leafs look to spoil Devils' visit
The New Jersey Devils are jockeying for top spot in a hotly contested divisional race and visit Toronto looking for an elusive late-season road win while the Maple Leafs try to play spoiler for the fifth straight season.

Penguins' Cooke heads into Bruins' den
Referees Bill McCreary and Stephen Walkom head the four-man crew charged with keeping the peace in the first game between Boston and Pittsburgh since Matt Cooke levelled Marc Savard.

CBC will show 13 Toronto FC games
CBC released its telecast schedule for the 2010 Major League Soccer season Thursday, revealing it will air 13 Toronto FC home games.

Luongo, Nabokov both struggling
Roberto Luongo is expected to get the call on Thursday night as the Vancouver Canucks host the San Jose Sharks, another team with a struggling Olympic goalie.

NCAA hoops underdogs dream of historic upset
The NCAA men's basketball tournament is famous for the little guys shocking the marquee powerhouses and turning into the darlings of March, but a No. 16-seeded team has never beaten a No. 1 in the 100 such matchups that have happened since the field expanded to 64 teams in 1985.

Flyers pin hopes on Boucher: Take 5
HNIC senior online reporter Tim Wharnsby dishes out the latest news, buzz and inside information from the hockey world, including Thursday's highly anticipated Bruins-Penguins grudge match, and the Flyers' battle to hang on to a playoff spot with backup Brian Boucher in net.

Canadian skip Jones back in her element
After working as a celebrity reporter at the Vancouver Olympics, Winnipeg skip Jennifer Jones is representing Canada for a third straight year at the women's world curling championship, which opens Saturday in Swift Current, Sask.

Nike Bauer recalls more hockey sticks
Bauer Hockey Corp. is recalling 13 models of junior hockey sticks due to excessive lead levels in the sticks' paint.

Friedman: NHL must take leadership on headshots - now
Here we are, heading into one of the most anticipated games of this NHL season, for all the wrong reasons. In today's meeting, Wolf Blitzer's producers are saying, "Don't forget to record that hockey thing tonight. Someone might get killed."

Struggling Sens meet porous Thrashers
The Ottawa Senators look to avoid a fourth straight loss and take advantage of the recent struggles of division-leading Bufffalo when they visit the Atlanta Thrashers on Thursday night.

Chan wants it all
Patrick Chan may not need a quadruple jump in his routine to win at future global events or the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, but he definitely wants one.

Nothing but good news for Montreal Impact
The Montreal Impact made some major announcements this week, including the acquisition of a Canadian Soccer League (CSL) franchise and the creation of the Montreal Impact Academy.

Real Madrid's worst nightmare may come true
So, Ramon Calderon got some kind of revenge after all.

PSG fan dies after attack by rival supporters
A Paris Saint-Germain football fan has died after spending weeks in a coma following an attack by rival PSG supporters.

Beckham back in London sporting leg cast
David Beckham left the clinic Wednesday where the former England captain had surgery for a torn Achilles' tendon, an injury that will keep him sidelined for about six months.

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