This cat keeps going and going and going and going…

Not a fan of the San Antonio Spurs robotic genius flow. I wanna see sick athleticism all over the floor coupled with skill and clutch play. That being said, the Spurs rock you to sleep slowly with precision and mishaps are at a minimum. With Tim Duncan playing the way he is at this advanced NBA age, if the Spurs are hoisting the trophy in June, do not be shocked. They beat up on the Clippers last night. The Parker/Paul match up was a wash, so Tim Duncan took over and became a major factor in the Spurs 108-92 win in Game 1.

In Miami, many today will question whether LeBron James should have been involved (TNT crew discuss) in last shot and also if Chris Bosh’s injury will derail the Miami Heat from NBA title aspirations. Both are fair questions and after last night’s 78-75 loss at the hands of the Pacers in Game 1, the Heat better get it together. Mario Chalmers said the last play was drawn up for him. I don’t have a problem with that. I do have a problem with LeBron missing free throws in a big spot and what made it worse was the shot of Pacers president Larry Bird. Can you imagine what was going through his mind as player after player clanked the first and then the second at the free throw line?

To the notes…

TNT’s coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs continues Wednesday, May 16, at 7 p.m. ET with a doubleheader featuring the Boston Celtics @ Philadelphia 76ers (Game 3) followed by the Los Angeles Lakers @ Oklahoma City Thunder (Game 2).

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Indiana Pacers (78) @ Miami Heat (75) – Series tied 1-1
Announcers: Marv Albert (play-by-play) and Steve Kerr (analyst) with Cheryl Miller (reporter)

Kerr on Miami missing Chris Bosh due to his injury and what it means to the Heat:“This is about defense…and Bosh is a big part of that.”

Kerr on the difficulty of playing the Heat:“You cannot beat Miami when they’re playing fast.”

Kerr on how difficult it is to play against the Miami Heat: “You cannot really sense how fast Miami’s defense is until you play against it. Indiana has to rely on its execution to try and create offense and I’m not sure if they [Pacers] are good enough.”

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Sprint Halftime Report
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

O’Neal on the Indiana Pacers 7’4” center Roy Hibbert:“He should be devastating with his moves. His attitude should be ‘I’m dominating.’ He should be more demonstrative with his moves. He should be more aggressive and he should go up to dunk it every time.”

Barkley on the key to the Pacers success in the series: “The key to the series [for the Pacers]…unless Danny Granger and Paul George play better, this team is not going to win.”

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TNT’s Miller interviewed Indiana Pacers forward David West following their win:

West:“We can’t celebrate over this. Our mindset is to win the series. We’re going to remain aggressive.”

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Los Angeles Clippers (92) @ San Antonio Spurs (108) – Spurs lead the series 1-0
Announcers: Matt Devlin (play-by-play) and Mike Fratello (analyst) with Marty Snider (reporter)

TNT’s Snider interviewed Clippers head coach Vinny Del Negro following the first quarter of play:

Del Negro on the Clippers first quarter:“We don’t want to get into a track meet with them [San Antonio]. We’ve got to be smart.”

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Sprint Halftime Report
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Barkley on the Spurs mental toughness:

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Fratello on the Spurs pace and acumen of play in Game 1:“When you [Clippers] are running low on energy, low on gas, it’s tough to keep up with the passing [of the Spurs].”

Fratello on the heightened expectations of the L.A. Clippers after acquiring Chris Paul:“He was the big reason why they have become so much tougher mentally and physically…once they acquired Chris Paul everyone expected, ‘Wow, Chris Paul, we’re going to win the whole thing.’”

TNT’s Marty Snider interviewed San Antonio Spurs forward Tim Duncan following his 26-point, 10-rebound night in the Spurs win:

Duncan:“We expected to go ahead and attack the basket. Early on I was just trying to get the rust off and get it going.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Barkley on the Spurs momentum:“I felt the Spurs had a little too much rest. They started off pretty slow. But once the game got going they picked it back up and do what the Spurs do…win at home.”

O’Neal on the Spurs:“They have been together so long and have so much experience that nothing impresses them. They know what to do, they know how to do it and they know when to do it. That’s why it looks so easy.”

Smith on Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich: “He exposes what you can’t do. If you aren’t good at doing something, he is going to expose it. He exposes everything that other teams are weak at.”

Barkley on the rest of the Clippers/Spurs series: “Chris Paul is not going to dominate in this series. I see the Clippers winning one game because their flaws are going to show.”

TNT reporter Marty Snider interviews Clippers guard Chris Paul in the locker room after the game

Paul on what the Clippers need to work on:“We missed a lot of layups, we didn’t get to the free throw line enough. But we felt like there were some good things we did and we just have to stay the course.”

O’Neal on the mentality Clippers forward Blake Griffin needs to have:>“The mentality Blake has to have is ‘I have to outplay the almighty Tim Duncan.’ The Playoffs is where you make your name. Tim Duncan is a legend, if you want to be a legend you have to go at the legend and you have to take care of the legend.”

Barkley on the Clippers’ Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan:“It is going to be a learning experience for Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan because their flaws are really going to show this series.”

Five weeks into the Roger Clemens perjury trial and things have finally gotten juicy as Roger Clemens’ former friend and trainer Brian McNamee took the stand for the second day and revealed that he saved the waste materials from a previous Clemens injection and even injected the wife of the former pitching ace while he watched.

Brian McNamee’s testimony held the attention of everyone but a napping juror during his second day on the witness stand. McNamee recounted the 2001 visit to Clemens New York City apartment where he administered an injection and held the syringe, cotton ball and swap in a can until he returned home where it remained in a FedEx box.

While associated with Clemens, McNamee has seen his world fall apart, he is in the midst of divorce proceedings and has been unable to find work due in part to his involvement with Clemens. It was at his wife’s urging to keep the material because he was “Going down!”

In what turned out to be the bombshell of the trial, McNamee testified that during a 2003 visit to the Clemens home he administered an HGH injection to Roger’s wife Debbie in the couple’s master bedroom while Clemens was present. According to McNamee, Debbie looked at her husband, and said, “I can’t believe you’re going to let him do this to me,” and Clemens responded, “He injects me; why can’t he inject you?” Clemens has denied being present and said that Debbie was injected with out his knowledge or consent.

McNamee decided to go after Clemens full bore when Clemens made a comment about McNamee’s oldest son’s medical condition in a phone conversation. It was then that he retrieved the materials and turned them in.

Looks like Clemens might be stuck…

In other news:

Zappala won’t charge officers in Jordan Miles case (Post Gazette.com)

Akron students take ‘field trip’ to Miami to see LeBron named MVP (Ohio.com).

Kobe Bryant: Charges carry big risk (ESPNLA).

Junior Seau’s house burglarized (USA Today).

Deion Sanders Ordered to Pay Pilar Sanders $10.5K Per Month, $275K Legal Fees (ABC News)

Manny Pacquiao banned from mall for gay marriage comments (Orlando Sentinel).

College football recruiting 2013: Sporting News’ Top 125 prospects (Sporting News).

RIP Lena Horne, she was connected to Black Fives era of basketball (Black Fives).

J. Dilla’s Mom Launches Label for producer’s catalog (All Hip Hop).

Time for Pres. Obama to Pardon Jack Johnson (Loop 21).

The Ever Present Past & Future of Bryce Harper (TSPJ).

Beam Them Up, Scotty: Chinese Physicists Reportedly Break Teleportation Record (Time).

Locally owned radio station keeps it in the family, celebrates 62 years (KCTV5).

Holiday is growing into a star by the second

The Lakers got caught. Simple as that. Westbrook was making turnaround bank shots. Come man…

I picked the Lakers in 6 because of their experience and size advantage inside. I said so because I thought Andrew Bynum would be up for the test. The Lakers obviously will have problems with Durant and Westbrook. As one of the TNT guys says below, Kobe Bryant will most likely guard Westbrook from the gun. Like I said after the 29 point blowout, 4 games is not won in one. You know damn well the Lakers will come out with fire in Game 2.

In Boston, the Sixers just stayed close. Covering this team, I notice something different. Yes, they still get tight at times, but Andre Iguodala is impressing me. He’s showing a confidence and also leadership I haven’t seen him show this season (more vocal on the floor). He’s taking big shots in rhythm and making them. Elton Brand is not 100% but he’s also hitting shots, playing great D and also leading out there on the floor. Jrue Holiday is becoming a force. Evan Turner hit big free throws and the Sixers as a whole defied what they did all year and converted big attempts at the stripe.  The Sixers are capable and trust me, Philly will be rocking Wednesday. Expect the Celtics to step it up a notch. Should be a classic.

The NBA on TNT set sends Memphis to where ya gotta hook ‘em to cook ‘em…

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Philadelphia 76ers (82) @ Boston Celtics (81) – Series tied 1-1
Announcers: Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Chris Webber (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Webber on the Sixers advancing in the playoffs: “This Sixers team has really earned their way this season. They’ve played well. They are one of the best defensive teams in this league, especially early on.”

Webber on the Celtics fans: “The Celtics fans have such a luxury in watching this team. One: [They] have one of the best coaches in Doc Rivers. And two: [they] have [Rajon] Rondo.”

Webber on Celtics bench player and center Ryan Hollins: “Ryan Hollins makes an impact with the ability he has [to play well off the bench]. You have to love him.”

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Sprint Halftime Report
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

O’Neal on the Celtics leadership structure: “I like to put it in business terms – KG [Kevin Garnett] is the President, the elder statesman who has been around. [Rajon] Rondo is the CAO – Chief Assist Officer – he makes it easy for everybody. And [Paul] Pierce is the CSO – Chief Scoring Officer – he’s a professional scorer.”

Smith on Celtics guard Rajon Rondo and his ability to think ahead: “Rondo plays chess when everybody else plays checkers. He’s figuring things out as they go and he’s setting you up the next move. When he has the basketball, he keeps you off balance.”

Barkley on the Celtics: “It is 100 percent clear to me the Celtics have zero respect for the Philadelphia 76ers. They’re not playing with any emotion, any passion.”

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Webber on Sixers’ effort:“I love the heart and courage of this Sixers team.”

Webber on the Sixers inability to possess the ball late in the game: “The Sixers have to realize they can’t give up possessions late in the game because of execution.”

TNT’s David Aldridge interviewed Philadelphia 76ers forward Andre Iguodala following the 76ers one-point win:

Iguodala:“Tonight we orchestrated a little better.”

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Gamebreak
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Barkley on who he likes to win the Lakers/Thunder series: “I like the Lakers. They have some tough match ups for OKC. Between [Ron] Artest and Kobe [Bryant], they can slow those guys [Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook] down four out of seven.”

Smith on who he likes to win the Lakers/Thunder series: “The Lakers obviously have trouble with pick-and-rolls. The Lakers obviously have trouble with quick point guards. The Lakers obviously have trouble with point guards who can score. This is probably the best scoring point guard [Westbrook] in the basketball right now. The Lakers will win this series unless…Westbrook averages 25 points per game.”

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Los Angeles Lakers (90) @ Oklahoma City Thunder (119) – Thunder lead the series 1-0
Announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play) and Reggie Miller (analyst) with Craig Sager (reporter)

Miller on one of the keys to the Lakers in this series: “The Lakers cannot turn the basketball over to the Thunder. They [Thunder] are too young, too athletic and can finish in the open court.”

Miller on the benefits of a balanced Lakers offense: “When more guys score and are engaged offensively, not only does it help your defense out but it makes this Lakers team so much more dangerous because they’re not only focusing in on No. 24 [Kobe Bryant].”

Miller on OKC and one of their keys to success in the series: “For them [OKC] to be successful this series, at some point [Kendrick] Perkins is going to have to play major minutes.”

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Sprint Halftime Report
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Barkley on OKC’s first half of play:“They [OKC] have the game at a really, really fast pace and the Lakers need to find a way to slow down Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. They [Lakers] gave up [59] points and you’re not going to win the game giving up 120 points.”

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Miller on a key to success for the  Thunder as the series progresses: “As the series goes on…it’s going to be important that the Thunder continue to attack the rim as opposed to relying on outside jump shots.”

Miller looking ahead to Game 2 and how the Lakers will defend the Thunder: “I will not be surprised in Game 2 if Kobe [Bryant] doesn’t start the game [guarding] Westbrook.”

TNT’s Craig Sager interviewed Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook following the Thunder’s 29-pt win:

Westbrook:“We just tried to come out and play our game.”

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Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Barkley on the Thunder:“When OKC is making jump shots, they are tough to beat.”

Barkley on the adjustment the Lakers can make: “Sometimes when you get blown out, it is easy to get over a game. But they have got to find a way to slow down Westbrook. Westbrook was the key to the game.”

O’Neal’s advice to Laker bigs: “Obviously they played well tonight but it is still not enough. You have to do more. You have to dominate more. I agree with Bynum and Gasol, they need to be in the offense a little more.”

O’Neal on the Thunder: “I was very impressed with how OKC valued each possession. Four turnovers in a playoff game, in a game where they mostly shot jump shots, I was very impressed.”

Smith on what the Game 1 blowout means for the Lakers: “If they can’t find a way to control dribble penetration, they will find themselves watching the Western Conference Finals.”

O’Neal on Sixers/Celtics Game 3: “Now they have to wake up. If you are a veteran team and you don’t show other teams respect, you tend to say I can turn it on and I can turn it off. It bit them in the rear tonight and it didn’t work. But now their backs are against the wall and they are going to start to pick it up.”

O’Neal on Heat forward Chris Bosh’s abdominal strain: “They say he is out indefinitely; he is probably out for the rest of the playoffs. You have to take four to six weeks off where you can’t do anything. You can’t lift your legs, you can’t ride the treadmill. You can’t do anything, every little move hurts.”

Barkley on Bosh’s injury: “I had it one time in Phoenix, you can’t do anything. It just takes rest. It is just one of those injuries; it just has to heal on time.”

Just when it looked like everything was about to settle down it looks as if another major college power is on the move to another conference. Athletic officials at Florida State University are considering a move from the ACC where they have been since 1991 to the Big 12. There has been no formal discussion between Florida State and Big 12 officials.

What’s your feeling on the steady realignment of the college sports landscape?

In my opinion, rivalries and traditions are what make college athletics great and a lot of that has to do with where these schools are located geographically. Duke/North Carolina, Michigan/Ohio State, Texas/Oklahoma and on and on. Now much of what I’ve come to appreciate is being threatened with even more realignment due to the BCS conferences in football and I have yet to determine the reason for basketball other than more teams brings more revenue into the  power conferences.

Some schools are just moving their football or basketball teams while some schools are moving altogether.

My pet peeve with the entire scenario is that too many of these move don’t make geographical sense.

• Boise State possibly moving from the Mountain West Conference to the Big East
• Texas A&M moving from the Big 12 to the SEC
• Syracuse and Pitt leaving the Big East and joining the ACC
• West Virginia leaving the Big East and joining the Big 12
• Houston, Memphis and SMU leaving Conference USA and joining the Big East
• San Jose State leaving the WAC and joining the Mountain West Conference

I understand some schools feel that by moving they better position themselves for tournament and bowl bids but this is nuts.

And besides I thought that college pie was big enough for everyone

In other news:

The mental, emotional and financial state of Terrell Owens should be our concern (The Sports Fan Journal).

Soul on Ice pays homage to Kevin Garnett  (The Sports Fan Journal).

Eagles tackle Jason Peters  re-injures Achilles (Philly.com Sports).

Manny Ramirez inching closer to getting back into the majors (SF Gate).

One man’s reason for demolishing Wrigley Field (The Wall Street Journal).

African-American males and bullying (Black Gives Back).

Michael Jackson’s costumes to be exhibited, sold (Black America Web).

Fake officer on killing spree in Mississippi (Black America Web).

Jay-Z announces Philly Music Festival for Labor Day Weekend (UPI.com).

Oldest daughter of John Edwards to take the stand (MSNBC).

LeBron and LeBron James Jr. with Senior’s 3 MVP trophy in 4 years…

Saturday, LeBron was presented with the MVP award many knew he would be awarded with. Sunday in Miami, after a slow first half start, James and Dwyane Wade outscored the Indiana Pacers themselves in the 2nd half (42-32) to win 95-86.

At the Fed Ex Forum in Memphis, Chris Paul and the Clippers defeated the home squad 82-72 in Game 7. The season ends with disappointment for the Grizzlies, who were expected to contend for the Western Conference Championship.

When Chris Bosh went down with an abdominal strain (Addendum: ruled out indefinitely per MRI 12:17 pm – Mizzo) late in the first half after a dunk, the obvious concern was whether the Heat could overcome the size and skill of Indiana’s front court. David West and Roy Hibbert both shot 6-12, had 17 points and combined for 23 rebounds. Indiana looked like the hungrier team into the third. Moving forward in the series, if Bosh is out (think Shaq with same injury as worse case scenario), look for Indiana to predictably attack Ronny Turiaf and Joel Anthony in waves. It might not be enough because though James and Wade shot 20-49, their mere ability to affect the game was evident whenever the ball was in either of their hands. The MVP had 32 points, 15 rebounds and 5 assists. He also guarded West in spurts. Dwyane Wade put in 29 points, had 4 assists and hit 13 of 14 free throws. Bosh had 13 points and 5 boards in the 16 minutes of burn before he went out. Indiana seems outclassed but that size advantage might prolong the series. Paul George, who is every bit the athlete of Wade and James, fouled out and had just 6 points. Hibbert and George Hill (4-10 for 10 points) both had 5 fouls. Danny Granger scored only 7 points on 1-10 shooting. Darren Collison had 10 and 6 assists off the bench.

In Memphis, you can’t help but to feel for Lionel Hollins and the Grizz after losing in Game 7 to Los Angeles 82-72. The Clips outscored the Grizzlies 27-16 in the fourth quarter. What if the Chris Paul trade to the Clippers didn’t happen? I find it incredible Donald Sterling, a notorious racist, was gifted with Chris Paul after some big owner/little owner power play that ultimately will be seen as the move that shifted Western Conference power. Memphis played so well in the playoffs last season, and to get booted in the first round will be depressing for the city. After the season began post lockout, David Stern has caught little to no wreck on vetoing the transaction that would have sent Chris Paul to the Lakers. What if Hollins loses his job in the trade aftermath? He’s a good coach but a first round loss after such lofty expectations unfortunately may change things. We’ll never know how either team would perform, but the trade’s effect on Los Angeles is obvious…and that’s both teams in Southern Cali.

Paul had 19 and 9 assists and controlled the temp as usual. He did so mainly without the athleticism of Blake Griffin. Blake is hampered by a sore knee and scored just 8 in 28 minutes. Memphis was 0-13 from the arc. Zach Randolph wasn’t 100% either and was held to 9 points (3-12). Z-Bo did have 12 boards. Rudy Gay (9 boards) and Marc Gasol both had 19 but were only Memphis players in double figures. Both teams shot under 40% (LA 38%, Memphis 32%). Mayo was 1-11. Nick Young had 13 and Kenyon Martin had 11 and 10 for the Clippers who move on to play the San Antonio Spurs.

Looking at the four major sports in the United States each commissioner is faced with some sort of dilemma that could pose a long-term effect on the respective sports league that he governs. So my question today is which sports commissioner has the toughest job and why?

With the recent rise in concussions among players and the New Orleans Saints bounty scandal NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has his hands full on just those two subjects alone. The recent suicide death of certain Hall of Famer Junior Seau has raised even more speculation as to whether the NFL is doing all it can to make sure that its former players are ready to deal with life after football. Also under consideration is an 18-game schedule.

David Stern has seen the NBA go through two season-altering lockouts in ten years. Contracts seem to be the root of the problem. Stern has long sought to expand an already watered down league that can ill-afford another project franchise. Questions again are starting to surface about the age where college players can deem themselves NBA eligible. And as of yesterday Stern has said that “flopping” amongst players has become a concern.

Bud Selig is still sitting in a dark room - either afraid or unwilling to open the blinds on baseball’s drug problem. The recent dilemma with NL MVP Ryan Braun has given a new twist on a problem that has plagued the game for decades. It is the biggest threat that has won back its fan base and has even expanded its playoff format to ensure even more parody.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman has come long way from being a joke of a commissioner. I believe that he’s not happy being the fourth rung down on the ladder of sports in the U.S. but as long as there’s a television deal, there will be an audience. The NHL is moving along just fine, and has two non traditional winter cities in the Western Conference Finals (Los Angeles and Phoenix). Player safety has always been a primary concern in the NHL as they continue to improve on rules and equipment alterations to that cause.

In other news:

Here’s a thought-provoking piece by Dave Zirin (Edge of Sports).

Alvin Ailey spring gala at the Apollo Theater raises one million dollars (Black Gives Back).

No Peace between Lakers and Thunder (LA Daily News).

Is there an NHL lockout on the horizon (The Globe and Mail).

Cleveland Cavaliers Kyrie Irving to win NBA Rookie of the Year (Cleveland Plain Dealer).

Joey Votto’s 3-home runs slam Nationals (Cincinnati.com).

Read up on the final day of the EPL happenings (SI.com).

With a new stadium in the works Minnesota is seeking a Super Bowl bid (Star Tribune).

So churches really are empty on Father’s Day (Christian Post).

Obama loses the average white guy vote (Real Clear Politics).

Beans got his Lakers soldier back and combined with Gasol silencing everyone, LA now moves on…

Happy Mothers Day ladies. Thank you for everything you do. We love you. Also, RIP Eric Daniels. Thank you sir for the rock you were. We do this for people like you.

For all the talk about the Los Angeles Lakers, they sure did step up in a 96-87 Game 7 win over Denver. The Nuggets now get much needed rest before they embark on a fishing trip (Chuck’s Mom is hilarious). Much of the pre-game drama surrounded Magic’s comments about the job status of Lakers head coach Mike Brown. How ridiculous that was and it seemed typewriters everywhere steamed and rocked until they broke loose paper strewn with soap opera like opinions of something having nothing to do with an actual Game 7. The Lakers won buoyed by the return of Metta World Peace. Gasol had 23 points, 17 boards, 6 assists and 4 blocks in shutting everyone up measure. MWP had 15 and 5 in 44 minutes and Andrew Bynum had 16 points, 18 boards and 6 blocks. If this team ever gets it together they are going to the Finals. Straight up.

As far as the Celtics 92-91 Game 1 win over the Sixers, Rajon Rondo had his 8th career playoff Oscar. He had 13 points, 17 assists, 12 boards (5 offensive) and 4 steals. His foul line jumper, IMO, won it. Black Pharoah took no prisoners. His 29 points and 11 rebounds were a statement to the NBA world that he isn’t done. Andre Iguodala did step up like I thought he would in my piece and hit big shots late. He had 19 points 6 boards, 6 dimes and 2 steals but the rest of the team went tight and the Celtics stole a game that should have been stolen. The teams shot the same from the field (36-82 for 43.9%) but the Celtics hit 18-19 from the line, while Philly was 14-20. I like Ron, had the Sixers in 6. Still do because I think in a 7 game series, injuries and age will become a factor.

To the TNT notes…

TNT’s coverage of the 2012 NBA Playoffs continues Monday, May 14, at 7 p.m. ET with a doubleheader featuring the Philadelphia 76ers @ Boston Celtics (Game 2) followed by the Los Angeles Lakers @ Oklahoma City Thunder (Game 1).

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TNT NBA Tip-off presented by AutoTrader.com
Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith

Smith on the return of Metta World Peace to the Los Angeles Lakers lineup: “He puts everyone in their right place [in the Lakers lineup]. That means Kobe [Bryant] moves to the two-guard and you don’t have a small lineup with [Steve] Blake and [Ramon] Sessions.”

Barkley on Metta World Peace: “It’s funny that when the Lakers were up 3-1 [in the series], no one was talking about [Metta] World Peace. Now all of a sudden he’s the savior.”

Barkley on playing with players who aren’t engaged in the game: “I hated playing with guys that when they don’t score…they drift. They don’t get engaged [in the game]. When [the Lakers] take the ball out of Andrew Bynum’s hands, he gets frustrated…and he drifts.”

Smith on the Lakers having trouble defensively facing the quick point guards: “I can’t remember in the 2000s when the Lakers have done great against the pick-and-roll. This year isn’t any different. Every point guard that comes into Los Angeles gets into the pick-and-roll situation and has speed [does well]. Their difficulty with guarding point guards hasn’t really changed…it’s a defensive pick-and-roll philosophy that the team isn’t doing a good job with.”

TNT’s David Aldridge interviewed Philadelphia 76ers forward Elton Brand prior to Game 1

Brand on what the 76ers need to focus on in their series vs. Celtics: “We have to have great attention to detail. We can’t turn the ball over. Rajon Rondo gets on the [fast] break, he finds the perimeter shooters and gets guys easy layups.”

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Philadelphia 76ers (91) @ Boston Celtics (92) – Celtics lead series 1-0
Announcers: Dick Stockton (play-by-play), Mike Fratello (analyst) and Chris Webber (analyst) with David Aldridge (reporter)

Webber on 76ers forward Andre Iguodala running the point more in certain situations: “Because [Avery] Bradley is doing such a great job on the ball defensively, look for Andre Iguodala to be the point forward because Paul Pierce isn’t an on-the-ball stopper. I expect Iguodala to have more point guard responsibilities because Bradley is doing such a good defensive job.”

Fratello on Ray Allen’s role with the Celtics: “[Celtics head coach] Doc Rivers has such great confidence in [Allen]. He puts the ball in his hands for so many different reasons over the course of a game. Not only just to score but other times, he creates shots for other people. Defensively, he has to stop the best scorer at the small forward position.”

Webber on the 76ers: “They are one of the few teams that the team is stronger than their individual talent. Coach [Doug] Collins has done a great job.”

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Sprint Halftime Report
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

O’Neal on the Celtics playoff mentality:“When you’re a veteran team with championship experience, sometimes you think you can turn the switch on and off. Right now, it looks like they are just going through the motions.

O’Neal picks the Celtics to win their series vs. the 76ers: “This is going to be an ugly series. Boston isn’t going to sweep but they’ll probably win 4-2.”

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Fratello on 76ers center Spencer Hawes:“He’s a skilled big man. He can face up and shoot the ball, he can use either hand and he can pass to open teammates. You have to like that in a big man.”

TNT’s David Aldridge interviewed Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo following the game

Rondo on his Game 1 triple-double:“I tried to do the intangibles. I was struggling, as well, scoring so I tried to do more for my teammates.”

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Gamebreak
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Barkley on speculation that the Lakers could fire head coach Mike Brown following the season:“If the Lakers were to fire Mike Brown…that would be a travesty.”

Smith on the state of the Lakers: “There will be changes in Los Angeles if they lose in the first round of the playoffs. This franchise is going backwards; they aren’t going forward if they lose in the first round. You can’t continue to go backwards with your star, Kobe Bryant, aging.”

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Denver Nuggets (87) @ Los Angeles Lakers (96) – Lakers win series 4-3
Announcers: Marv Albert (play-by-play) and Steve Kerr (analyst) with Craig Sager (reporter)

Kerr on Lakers forward Pau Gasol: “Gasol is the Lakers’ best passer.”

Kerr on the Nuggets offense: “The Nuggets best chance at scoring is by pushing the ball and it all starts with the defense on the other end.”

Kerr on Nuggets forward JaVale McGee: “He’s extremely raw. He doesn’t have much of a post game. He’s working at it but he’s so much better playing off the ball on the weak side coming in for put-backs and dunks.”

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Sprint Halftime Report
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

O’Neal on the Lakers first half of Game 7:“Let’s keep it real. Game 7, with all the speeches and calling people out, [the Lakers] are supposed to be blowing [the Nuggets] out…period.

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Kerr on Lakers center Andrew Bynum’s performance in the first round: “I like Bynum’s activity but he hasn’t been able to find his rhythm offensively [in the playoffs].”

Kerr on Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson: “He’s impossible to stay in front of because he is so fast and strong.”

Kerr on Lakers guard Steve Blake in Game 7: “He’s been enormous in this game.”

Kerr on Nuggets head coach George Karl: “George Karl has been masterful throughout this series.”

Kerr on Lakers forward Metta World Peace’s impact on Game 7: “There’s no doubt that World Peace has had a huge impact on this game [with] his hustle, strength and defensive versatility.”

TNT’s Craig Sager interviewed Lakers forward Metta World Peace following the game

World Peace on playing Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round following his suspension for elbowing OKC’s James Harden during the regular season:“It’s none of my concern. My concern is playing the game of basketball. Everything else…isn’t important to me.”

**** **** **** ****

Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai
Johnson, Barkley, O’Neal and Smith

Smith on Nuggets guard Andre Miller:“Size doesn’t matter,  Sometimes it’s just effort and heart. Andre Miller showed that.”

Barkley on the Denver Nuggets: “It was interesting watching George Karl coach and make adjustments. He went small and they made a fantastic run. George Karl did a fantastic job going small. Ty Lawson was phenomenal but they couldn’t get any rebounds. That was the difference in the game – offensive rebounds.”

O’Neal on the Los Angeles Lakers: “Offensively the Lakers bigs didn’t have a great game. Defensively, presence-wise they had a fabulous game and played well. They did whatever it took to win this game, but it is going to get tougher in this next series.”

Barkley on Bynum improving after seven years in the NBA: “You don’t get much better after seven years. You are the player you are going to be after seven years.”

Smith: “The only player that I’ve seen get better after seven years is Steve Nash.”

Smith on what Lakers center Andrew Bynum is missing: “What’s missing is the consistency and performance.”

O’Neal on Lakers/OKC series: “It is going to be tough because one: Kevin Durant is mad because he thought he should have won MVP. Second reason in order to be the best, you have to beat the best. Kevin Durant is tired of being No. 3, No. 4.  This is his chance to prove that he is the best. No. 3, James Harden is going to be playing out of his mind. No. 4, the OKC bigs saw what JaVale McGee and [Timothy] Mozgov did to these guys. They are not scared. I’m going with OKC in this one.”

Barkley on Nuggets center JaVale McGee: “I think we are going to see some special things from JaVale McGee. He has a good coach and a stable organization around him. He’s just going to get better.”

The Philadelphia Sixers and Boston Celtics are meeting in the NBA Playoffs for the 19th time (most in NBA history) with the Celtics leading 11-7. The NBA’s greatest rivalry is now passed on to a new generation that has yet to experience a feud that goes back to 1953. This is the first playoff meeting of the two teams since 2002 after meeting four times in the 1980′s

Here is my preview and prediction…

Let’s take a quick position by position glance at this series, we’ll start with the guards.

Guards:

Rajon Rondo can kill you without taking a shot and that’s what makes him the most dangerous player in this series. Jrue Holiday came up better than expected in the Chicago series, but is still suspect to an erratic night and that’s what the Sixers can’t afford. Evan Turner needs to be even more aggressive than he was in the first round, Turner has quietly become the emotional leader on this team his fearlessness at both ends should have a trickle down effect on this relatively young team. Avery Bradley starts at the two but as Ray Allen heals, expect him to work his way back into the starting lineup.

Advantage: Celtics

Forwards:

In order for Andre Iguodala to continue his new-found love affair with the Philadelphia fans he must deliver against the Celtics and that means locking up Paul Pierce who like Iggy is battling injuries. If Iguodala allows Pierce to pick his spots, it’s going to be a long series. Offensively, Iggy needs to get started early and remain active during lulls in the game. It’s safe to say that Elton Brand is fully recovered from the injuries that have plagued him since he arrived in Philadelphia. It is essential for the Sixers to get Brand involved early for him to remain effective throughout. Underrated as a defender, Brand can be counted on for a block or two a game. Brandon Bass was a great pickup for the Celtics but he has to locate his mid-range game, hit the glass and take advantage of the slower, older Brand.

Advantage: Sixers

Centers:

Kevin Garnett has been just what the C’s needed at the center position, he was nothing short of great in the clincher scoring 28 points grabbing 14 rebounds and recording 5 blocks. Garnett is prone to throw up a dud of a game and should not be counted on to take the final shot. If the Celtics are to win this series, it’s on KG along with Paul Pierce to show up big. Spencer Hawes has battled through the injuries of this shortened season and gave the Sixers a huge boost from the five position in the first round. Not being one that’s afraid to mix it up - Hawes won’t back down from Garnett and might trade a ‘bow or two to let KG know he’s in a series.

Advantage: Even

Bench:

Lou Williams flew under the radar this season as he led the Sixers in scoring from the pine, the runner up in this year’s sixth man of the year running is as streaky as they come and should provide plenty of sparks as he rises to the moment. Thaddeus Young is the trump card here, Young struggled against Taj Gibson in the last series but should be able to be more himself against the Celtics. If Young breaks out, this series will be short. Ray Allen, hobbled and all is still savvy and will get his either from the floor or at the line. The old lion is still dangerous and shouldn’t be provoked. Mickael Pietrus is a designated stopper and is dangerous from beyond the arc if given room. Jodie Meeks should be able to run away from Allen to spot up but he needs a hot start to stay confident in this series. Greg Stiemsma is a space-eater and can get you a bucket or two, but his job is to defend and buy minutes for Garnett, Ryan Hollins is quicker but is unreliable when it comes to scoring the rock. Backup point Kenyon Dooling is a decent defender and can be a threat from the outside. Lavoy Allen got his first taste of playoff basketball and enjoyed it he and Nick Vucevic should be able to have some success against the Celtics reserves.

Advantage: Sixers

Intangibles & Prediction:

This is your classic youth vs. experience series, while Boston has all of the experience and hardware, Philly has the up and coming horses with the young legs to overtake their opponents. The Sixers have to trap the perimeter and not allow Pierce or Allen to get hot at any point. Detail is important here as rebounding and turnovers are essential. If the Sixers get turnovers, it will open up their fast break and the Celtics will not be able to recover. The Sixers took 2 of 3 from the Celtics this season by a total of 45 points.

Prediction: Sixers in Six!

Iguodala celebrates after his free throws won Game 6 and closed out the Bulls in the first round…

The montane forest in this the season of the lockout dropped fans off peaks fast and slow. Andre Iguodala and the Philadelphia 76′ers season were associated with Everest like highs and near Death Valley like lows. Iguodala has caught much heat in a city starving for its Sixers to become again the NBA mountainous. There was a minor step taken last night giving the Sixers a seminal moment of relevance, and that Andre held every last Philly fan’s breath in his free throw making hands was how it was supposed to be. Each generation of Sixers team has had a star that in some form captivated the entire league and gave the city sports wide credibility. They were the mountains moving giving everything they had to get the next win. Whether or not the Sixers have success in the next round against their historical rival the Boston Celtics depends on how this current version of Philadelphia rock gathers his new found experience points and builds the grains of moment by playoff moment consistency.

On April 7th vs. the Orlando Magic…an 88-82 Philadelphia loss that was also Dwight Howard’s last NBA game this season…Devon Givens and I made our way across the floor from press row…headed to Doug Collins’ post game conference with the media. We greeted the ushers lining the floor while the Sixers Dream Team performed their usual after event routine, posted up inside the press conference area and wait for Collins to appear at the podium. Before entering the room, I ran into Andrew Iguoldala’s brother Frank. We spoke of a few things professional so when Doug opened, Andre was on my mind and became the focus of what I was to ask his coach…who is as emotional as they come and cares of his players like few others.

Iguodala was 2-9 with 6 points, 4 rebounds and 10 assists in 43 minutes. 2 of those 6 came on a late game dunk where the crowd actually booed Andre because he missed 2 critical free throws just minutes earlier that would have put his team in a position to win. Collins is never critical of his players publicly in a way writers will use to their advantage. He offers team reasons why games are lost but on this night, after a game the Sixers needed a win to improve their playoff seeding, Andre’s performance was less than stellar and had to be scrutinized. After Collins finished his initial statement, I asked the following in the most diplomatic way possible:

“How can you put Andre in a better position to be more effective?”

I stood to Collins’ left. He offered a blank but purposeful stare followed by an emotional short giggle before responding:

“Next question.” Collins then laughs and the media followed suit like linemen reacting to a qb cadence. Behind a curtain to his right, opposite of me, stood Andre’s aforementioned brother…listening intently. He had his arms folded with a hand on his face…thumb to cheek…index finger across his mouth with the rest of his fingers cupping his chin. This was all becoming very interesting. Collins continued: “Andre had 10 assists for us tonight”…he said in a defiant voice speaking away from me and to the room as if I was no longer there. “He’s got the ball in his hands a lot.” There was a pause. I couldn’t imagine what Doug was thinking of me at the time and I’m sure it wasn’t anything particularly flattering. He looked down, his face again went blank, and a couple of seconds passed before another media member chimed in.

Collins’ family were just feet away from where I was standing and as Doug finished speaking, he walked over to greet them. We shook hands and I spoke: “Doug the crowd booed him after a dunk. I had to ask that question based on performance because they want to know.” Collins responded with “That was a bad, bad question. Andre does so much for us.” We both smiled and left it at that because his family was near. As the media left in a rush to get player quotes, I thought back to games where Iguodala was more than his usual. Dre didn’t speak that night and I wondered if the enigmatic star would ever have a game the city would absolutely love him for beyond expectation. Expectations we all have of stars but unfortunately not of ourselves. High Expectations…romantic and not…that Philly insatiably seeks of its own. Yes, often the level of performance sought by this city is just not realistic, but in other instances rightfully mimic Chaka Khan’s Move Me No Mountain: “I don’t expect you to be someone else that you’re not. All I expect you to give is all that you’ve got.” 

Andre plays hard even when injured (currently dealing with knee and Achilles issues). His versatility sets the table for this young team without having to fill the net. He is on the Olympic roster, so true basketball minds acknowledge his talent. He is unappreciated in Philly and when the crowd doesn’t respond in his favor, I’m sure it affects him just like it would anyone else. This season, he’s admittedly missed many big free throws and the crowd was left disappointed, just when it seemed after his All Star nod they were willing to embrace him with arms of sibling predilection. I honestly thought the city was done with him after the Orlando loss. The crowd was too disapproving. When he’s at the line and Wells Fargo Arena lies silent, pejoratives are shouted that make your face look different. Often, the frequency of these occurrences are multiple. I couldn’t imagine how one feels…how his coach and teammates feel…his family and the strangers loving and supporting him feel in those situations. As a pro, you must move on because these pitfalls are inescapable. He’s dealt with many trade rumors surfacing yearly but he’s still here and once Andre signed that 6 year, 80 million dollar deal on August 17th, 2008, Philadelphia would judge Dre’s performance a lot more closely. Many people think he’s not worth it. Fans want the 30 point games that are also triple doubles of everything Oscar. They want the game winners in LA and Orlando to become a common trademark. They want him to be LeBron and further…Kobe. They want to see him fly like Doc and/or entertain like Barkley so he won’t have to return like Iverson.

Last night, he flew, he entertained and along with Elton Brand, spoke as a leader afterward.

After winning the game and sending everyone (including those hypercritical of him before the free throws) in a frenzy not known to this arena since Iverson, he spoke with TNT’s Cheryl Miller about the process: “(Omer) Asik is a bad shooter, I knew I had a chance to get the rebound. Spencer (Hawes) did a great job boxing out. On the free throws, Tony Battie told me to think of something that you love when shooting free throws. I thought of my son and it was easy after that.”

Man! His son? Yes.

Beautiful is a moment simplified that in this case somehow became a Philly encapsulated victory of legend. Andre had a total game. In 43 minutes, he scored 20 points (7-12), dished out 7 assists, had a steal and a block. More importantly, the will not be denied drive leading to his winning free throws was clutch and even the naysayers had to applaud. His points were down this year but every other stat remained consistent and he shot a career high .394 from behind the arc. Yet, those critical of him will remain cynical because the Sixers won this series in the absence of Derrick Rose and later Joakim Noah, both of whom are game changers with sui generis skill sets. Maybe for Iguodala deservedly so, because challenges are ubiquitous on the path of those willing to become champions. His Sixers are a young team still green in this NBA playoff montane forest, but if they defeat their rival led by the spirited Black Pharaoh (KG) the Eastern Conference Final awaits. Consistency is paramount in a season lacking anything consistent.

The Sixers, this year, routinely gave up leads they were probably numb to hearing of by everyone not wearing a Philadelphia uniform, but this was a game that did not get away. Iguodala, again to Miller, speaks of lessons learned: “We have been in that position so many times this season, where we let games go; games we should have pulled out. Those were all learning experiences for this type of moment. I’m just so proud of my teammates.”

Last night was reminiscent of a contest also against the Chicago Bulls that was the last game at the old Spectrum. Post game that 2009 night, Andre offered this when I asked if that was a win he would cherish because of all the nostalgia: “Oh definitely. I got a souvenir I have in my bag that I can take with me. I will frame it and it’s something no one else can say they are a part of as far as being on that court during the last game here.”

Best believe, after the win last night…presented to them by clutch Philadelphia Hearts of Men…everyone in attendance and watching at home will have an Iguodala rock to bag…signifying a legendary memory. A memory moving the city closer to building a now generation of solid Sixers mountain laden foundation.

(Below is a video courtesy of Anthony Gilbert recorded in 2010 where Anthony and I speak to Dre about a moment that last night came to fruition)

One year after being ousted from the Ohio State football program for his participation in a payment scandal, Oakland Raiders quarterback  Terrelle Pryor speaks out on his involvement and his reasons for why he signed game-worn uniforms and other OSU memorabilia.

His relationship with the Ohio State University has been severed as he has been banned from associating with the school for five years.

(Otto Greule Jr./Getty Images)

“The reason why I did it was to pay my mother’s gas bill and some of her rent.”

That was Terrell Pryor’s response  to Sports Illustrated on why he signed OSU memorabilia in exchange for cash. It wasn’t for personal gain or to ride around Columbus like he owned it. His motive was to keep a roof over the heads of his mother and sister during the winter months.

According to Pryor, his mother had to plead with the landlord to allow her to pass for a few months until her son was able to send her the money. By this time his mother was unemployed and four months behind in bills. The landlord’s love for the Buckeyes was the Pryor’s saving grace from eviction. Pryor has receipts of these payments to prove that his deeds were for nothing more than to keep his family off the streets.

Pryor after being suspended the first five games of last season by the university chose to enter the NFL Supplemental Draft where he was selected by the Oakland Raiders.

“Whenever I write my book, the proof will be in there, the receipt that the money I gave my mother was to pay the electric and heat bill.” “The truth is going to come out one day when the time is right. I don’t think I deserved (being punished) in that way, because of the reason I was doing it. I felt like I was doing God’s work in a way, and I was getting driven into the ground.”

Amen.

In other news:

Suge Knight accuses Dr. Dre of getting a restraining order, Tupac pulls Dre out of the closet (All Hip Hop).

Washington Capitals force Game 7 against the New York Rangers with 2-1 victory (Washington Post).

D. K. Wilson (dwil) writes of Junior Seau and the Perception of Professional Athletes  (Storify)

Fenway Park announcer Carl Beane killed in car crash (NECN.com).

Celtics Rajon Rondo is far from boring (Wall Street Journal).

2011-12 Philadelphia 76ers = Fool’s Gold (Philly.com).

Washington Nationals rookie Bryce Harper already a polarizing figure (NBC Sports).

Two California police officers ordered to stand trial in beating death of homeless man (CNN).

Obama says VP Biden’s comments push same-sex marriage endorsement (CNN).

T.O. has officially become a joke (Black America Web).

White Supremacist race war plat foiled (Black America Web).

Have a great Thursday people

It happens to everybody, Everybody. Irrelevant of who you are, how much money you make or how many trophies you have in a case at home. There will come a moment, despite the bluster and the bravado, where you step in that ring or on that court or on that ice and you know. You just know, it’s over. The only question is this: How are you going to deal with it when that moment comes? Floyd Mayweather will eventually have to ask himself this question. But for the man who was in the co-main event, that question is already here and has been here for quite a while. The only question is this: Does he know it, and will he get out before he really does serious damage to himself?

Canelo Alvarez is 21 years old. That’s the main point of what Mosley-Alvarez was. Could the old master - the man who has fought champions of all stripes, pull one last great night out? Could he stir the echoes one last time? The simple answer to this was…No.

And the sad part is and this again is something that is universal - you don’t know when that moment is going to come. If you had told the fans in Madison Square Garden who were watching that night that Riddick Bowe, the architect of one of the greatest heavyweight trilogies of recent memory was done before he stepped in the ring with Andrew Golota no one would have believed you. If you would have told those same fans if they had come back later, that Naseem Hamed was done as a prizefighter the night he stepped into the ring against Marco Antonio Barrera in Las Vegas they also wouldn’t have believed it.

That’s the funny thing about boxing. When it’s done, it’s almost never gradual. It’s just…. done. You can’t even see it coming, because boxing isn’t like football or basketball where you see the athlete every day or every week and come to that slow realization that “he can’t play anymore.” It only happens when the bell rings.

Shane Mosley can take some comfort in this fact: It happens to everyone. No one is immune from the moment when it all goes away.

But before we get to the other man in our little play, I think it only right that we pay tribute to a man who was, at one time, the pound-for-pound best boxer in the world, someone who compared favorably to the greatest lightweight champions ever and the kind of champion we need more of not less.

Now to the other man in our little play. Floyd Mayweather has always tried to make himself as different. In an era where the top stars are promoted by big conglomerates, Floyd promotes himself. In arenas where your most popular fighters are whirling dervishes of offensive fury, Floyd is a defensive wizard who husbands his aggression. But there is one thing about Floyd that makes him different above all else is the one thing that might make his eventual demise altogether quicker than other fighters.

Simply put, he doesn’t fight enough. Now I know what you’re thinking dear reader, “Doesn’t that mean he has less of a chance to have hard fights?” True. But it also means he is more prone to rust than other fighters might be. When you don’t keep your skills sharp, when you’re not at the top of your game that moment when it suddenly becomes all over comes quicker than it would normally.

And that fact, that inevitability is what I think Floyd is trying to avoid by his scheduling. But trust me, and I can say this with certainty, time is undefeated. And it always wins by KO.

You won’t see more emotion out of Miller…the LA Kid than what you see right here…

The playoffs are heating up. Wills are apparent. Coaches buckle down. Media is antsy. Players are feeling what is to come and fans are appreciative. Last night, we saw it all…the drama, the Black Mamba, the home crowds and unappreciated point guards…

Denver 102, Lakers 99. Los Angeles leads Denver 3-2

Andre Miller has this competitiveness about him when the stars shine hottest. He’s as humble as you get. I know he’s taken it hard that Ty Lawson has supplanted him as the starter, but he’ll never tell you…because he’s a true teammate. Last night, Miller and the Denver Nuggets began to pull away in the fourth and had to hope Kobe Bryant missed to survive in LA. JaVale McGee scored 21 points and grabbed 14 rebounds for the Nuggets…a career playoff high. Miller makes ‘em better and with all that McGee has been through professionally, having a steady point guard to get you the ball is definitely what JaVale needs. He’s playing himself into a pay day this summer.

Kobe Bryant on the other hand is dealing with media calling him every kind of asshole…

I knew he would have a big game…just like others I’m sure. He came on late when the Lakers got behind in the fourth and put up 43 total. Expect something similar out of him Thursday…just with a win associated. They’ll be none of this hilarity…

Besides Miller’s 24 points, 8 assists and McGee’s 21 and 14 boards, Aaron Afflao had 19 for Denver.

Beans led Los Angeles with the aforementioned 43. He also had 5 dimes and 6 boards. Bynum after making his “easy” comment, had 16 and 11. Where was y’alllllls boy Pau Gasol? 9 and 10 is not gonna get it.

Bulls 77, Sixers 69. Philadelphia leads Chicago 3-2.

This game here was something of bricks. What was it 35-26 at halftime? John Chaney would have loved the defensive effort…helped by the abysmal shooting. Philly was 32% from the floor, Chicago a little better 41%. The deciding factor was three point shooting. Philly was 2-11 and Chicago 5-11. Luol Deng had three of those…all at critical shot clock moments. What is perplexing is that the road team out shot the home team at the line by a wide margin: 17-24 to just 4-11. How does that happen? Philly is taking what Chicago give their big men on the outside. There is a lot of defense played on both sides. I dig the way Chicago gets back after a made shot. They know Philly also likes to get out and run…69 points ain’t no track meet…

Iguodala and Holiday were a combined 9-36…for just 27 points. Hawes did have 11 and 14. Evan Turner was 2-7 for 4 points. Looks like he had some sort of slight neck injury after spinning into a defender and he was relegated to shake the cobwebs out on the sideline. His energy was lost playing only 32 minutes and was definitely needed because Philly couldn’t get that one run they had to have. Boozer had to step up and he did with 19 points, 6 assists and 13 rebounds. The aforementioned Deng had 24 big points. Big points and also 8 boards. Will Joakim Noah play Thursday in Philadelphia? Hopefully Ron or I will be there to report it…hopefully.

Hawks 87, Celtics 86. Boston leads 3-2.

It’s great to see Al Horford back. He was the catalyst. The city of Atlanta probably wants me to repeat that. His 19 points, 11 rips, 3 assists, 3 steals and 3 blocks were the energy the organization was hoping for when he came back from injury. Josh Smith had 13 points, 16 rebounds and 6 assists. They joined the rest of the starting five in double figures (Teague 16, Williams and Johnson with 15).

Boston did all it could to finish this out but obviously couldn’t seal the deal as last night, only Indiana was successful in a closeout situation. Rajon Rondo had 13 and 12 dimes. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett both had 16. Ray Allen 15 and Brandon Bass 14.

Atlanta hit the shots to get out of there with a win. Crowd was into it. Rondo made a steal of a Josh Smith pass with 10 seconds left, but committed a turnover trying to get the ball to Black Pharaoh  at the top of the key after being trapped on the left wing. Game over.

Pacers 105, Magic 87. Indiana wins series vs. Orlando 4-1.

Jameer Nelson had 27 points (5 threes) but it was Darren Collison’s 19 and Danny Granger’s 25 that pushed the Magic over the top to win the game and the series. Orlando obviously played without their star Dwight Howard and Glen Davis had a decent series. He had 15, 8 and 2 blocks but shot just 6-17. Ryan Anderson had 14 and J. J. Redick 12.

Indiana got a nice balanced scoring effort. Besides Collison and Granger’s already stated performances, George Hill had 15, Roy Hibbert 11 and David West had 12. That’s a strong team and getting past Indiana will not be easy for the Heat in the Eastern Conference semis.

Expect changes in Orlando. Is there anything else to be said? Nah.

I’ll be the first to say that I’ve been critical of Josh Hamilton’s off-the-field actions in recent years about his substance abuse and that is largely because Hamilton’s transgressions are measured differently for obvious reasons. That doesn’t keep me from the realization that Hamilton is one of the best players in baseball for some time now.

Last night the Texas Rangers left fielder became the 16th player (14th since 1900) to hit four home runs in a game. Hamilton joins Lou Gerhig, Chuck Klein, Pat Geary, Gil Hodges, Joe Adcock, Rocky Colavito, Willie Mays, Mike Schmidt, Bob Horner, Mark Whitten, Mike Cameron, Shawn Green and Carlos Delgado.

The last time Baltimore was terrorized like this, Avon Barksdale and Stringer Bell roamed the streets.

Josh Hamilton went yard in the first, third, seventh and eighth innings becoming the sixth American League player to hit four home runs in a game. Hamilton went 5 for 5 with 8 RBIs – setting a new AL record with 18 total bases as the Texas Rangers defeated the Baltimore Orioles 10-3.

It was a shining moment for Hamilton who is looking to finally lead the Rangers to a World Series championship after back-to-back defeats.  Despite his struggles with substance abuse, Hamilton was involved in the death of a fan last season as he tossed a ball to him at a Rangers home game. In reaching for the ball the fell to his death behind the left field wall. It was the lowest point for Hamilton who was just trying to do the right thing.

The 2010 AL MVP is off to a torrid start leading the majors in batting (.406) , home runs (14) and RBIs (36).

In other news:

 Looking back at the 1993 bout between Roy Jones Jr. and Bernard Hopkins (The Sports Fan Journal).

This Matt Kemp vs. Josh Hamilton debate will definitely heat up (The Sports Fan Journal).

Washington Redskins defensive end Brian Orakpo has a word for anyone that thinks RG3 is fighting for a starting job (Washington Post).

Former Vikings receiver Cris Carter admits to sanctioning bounties as an active player (ESPN).

President Obama not taking the JFK approach (Real Clear).

Rev. Jeremiah Washington has a message for today’s youth (Real Clear).

Steve Kerr proposes a 20-year old age limit for the NBA (Real Clear).

Two new Golf Hall of Fame inductees take time to critique Tiger Woods (Golf Channel).

Beastie Boys sued over funk samples (Black America Web).

Double-agent foils Al Queda plot (CNN).

Don’t get caught in the rain people

It’s arguably the greatest rant in sports history, after the Philadelphia 76ers were outsted of the 2001-2002 playoffs when Allen Iverson met with the media for a season-ending press conference. What they got instead was Iverson at his best unapologetic and unrelenting.

As the New York Knicks fought off the Miami Heat and elimination on Sunday it came with a price as the team lost point guard Baron Davis with a partial tear of the right patella tendon, Davis also completely tore his right ACL and MCL tendons. This is the second guard that the Knicks have lost in this series, combo guard Iman Schumpert tore his right achilles tendon in Game 1 of this series. With the team down to two point guards and Amar’e Stoudemire literally on the mend the Knicks are down to Carmelo Anthony the defense of Tyson Chandler and little else.

Gotham is looking for a hero to force Game 6…

(Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images)

Jeremy Lin has been out of action since April 2nd to have a meniscus tear in his left knee repaired. According to Knicks coach Mike Woodson Lin has not looked in great shape and that could be a determining factor in his return. Lin in the Knicks lineup would provide depth at the position as Mike Bibby (will start) and Tony Douglas are the only two point guards remaining on the roster.

Should Lin risk further injury by playing in Game 5 tomorrow night?  Woodson is hoping that Lin at least gives it a shot. This series going six games at the max and a Jeremy Lin that has missed a month of action isn’t doing anything to strike fear into the Heat guards.

The bigger issue for Lin is that he’s an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. Playing at less than 100 percent not only risks further injury it jeopardizes a potential cash windfall during this summer’s free agency period. Coach Woodson said that the decision on Lin returning is ultimately up to him and team doctors. It’s obvious that the Knicks are trying to push the issue to get Lin on the floor - but at what cost?  The thought that a hobbled Jeremy Lin extending this series with the Miami Heat up 3-1 is foolish. This isn’t Game 7 of the NBA Finals…

…and that isn’t Willis Reed coming out of the tunnel.

In other news:

Lamont Peterson tests positive for banned substance, bout with Amir Khan in doubt (USA Today).

Mariano Rivera’s surgery was more complicated than expected (New York Post). 

Deion Sanders’ wife ordered to stay away from his home (MSNBC).

Phillies Cole Hamels suspended 5 games for throwing at Nats Bryce Harper (Comcast.net)

Push for African-American movies pays off (Philly.com).

Add Patrick Ewing to list of potential coaches for the Charlotte Bobcats (NBC Sports).

So the Hindenburg had a smoking lounge (Real Clear Science).

Is the Tiger Woods era over (Guardian UK).

Homeless man beaten  being beaten by California police officers while crying for help dies 5 days later (CNN).

Samuel L. Jackson is Hollywood’s highest grossing actor ever (CNN).