Does your hockey team need a little help with their X’s and O’s? Turn your iPad into an interactive playbook with iHockey Manager. Loaded with proven plays, helpful drills and tools for creating your own custom strategies, this easy-to-use app helps your team hit the ice with confidence.
Perfect for players and coaches alike, iHockey Manager makes creating exciting new drills and plays easier than ever with an intuitive sketch tool that allows you to position players and dictate movement.
Saving drills and plays for later lets you build an entire season worth of strategies that are ready to view at the drop of a puck. Give your game a big assist with iHockey Manager!
View this helpful video for more information.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Canadian Hockey Trivia Video
It used to be there were only two ways to prove you were Canadian: you could show your passport or you could make love in a canoe. But now, there’s a third: You can play Canadian Hockey Trivia.
This lightning-fast game is available on Apple and Android devices and can be played solo or against a buddy via Bluetooth.
Learn more by watching this fun new video.
This lightning-fast game is available on Apple and Android devices and can be played solo or against a buddy via Bluetooth.
Learn more by watching this fun new video.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Canadian Hockey Trivia
Admit it; you’re a hockey fanatic. You’d gladly trade in your car for a Zamboni, you greet your coworkers by checking them into their desks and you regularly paint your face… even during the off-season.
You could seek professional help or you could play my brand new Canadian Hockey Trivia game. Created in conjunction with TBA Digital, this lightning fast app tests your knowledge of all seven of Canada’s NHL teams including the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, and the Winnipeg Jets. You can play with as many (or as few) teams as you like.
Loaded with more than 1,000 challenging multiple-choice questions, Canadian Hockey Trivia tries to trip you up with super tricky questions about franchise leaders, jersey numbers, draft history, major award-winners, franchise firsts and player facts and figures. From primetime playmakers to big time enforcers, I’ve included questions about beloved players from every era.
Try it out for yourself by clicking here, or visit www.itunes.com/apps/TBAMobile to see a full line-up of all of my sports trivia games.
You could seek professional help or you could play my brand new Canadian Hockey Trivia game. Created in conjunction with TBA Digital, this lightning fast app tests your knowledge of all seven of Canada’s NHL teams including the Vancouver Canucks, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, and the Winnipeg Jets. You can play with as many (or as few) teams as you like.
Loaded with more than 1,000 challenging multiple-choice questions, Canadian Hockey Trivia tries to trip you up with super tricky questions about franchise leaders, jersey numbers, draft history, major award-winners, franchise firsts and player facts and figures. From primetime playmakers to big time enforcers, I’ve included questions about beloved players from every era.
Try it out for yourself by clicking here, or visit www.itunes.com/apps/TBAMobile to see a full line-up of all of my sports trivia games.
Grey Cup Trivia
The 99th annual Grey Cup may be over, but the game will live on forever thanks to my brand new Grey Cup Trivia App. Created in conjunction with TBA Digital, this fast-paced free app challenges your knowledge of Canada’s premiere sporting event.
Play solo or take on a friend in 2 Player Mode as you answer a series of skill-testing questions about the players and teams who have won the CFL’s most coveted trophy.
The easy-to-use interface features slick graphics, realistic sound effects and an instantly updated scoreboard that tracks your progress throughout the game. So what are you waiting for? Try it out for yourself by clicking here, or visit www.itunes.com/apps/TBAMobile to see a full line-up of all of my sports trivia games.
Play solo or take on a friend in 2 Player Mode as you answer a series of skill-testing questions about the players and teams who have won the CFL’s most coveted trophy.
The easy-to-use interface features slick graphics, realistic sound effects and an instantly updated scoreboard that tracks your progress throughout the game. So what are you waiting for? Try it out for yourself by clicking here, or visit www.itunes.com/apps/TBAMobile to see a full line-up of all of my sports trivia games.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Baseball's Most Bizarre Injuries
It isn’t uncommon for baseball players to be hard on themselves, but Baltimore Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts took self-punishment to a whole new level in October, 2010 when he beat himself in the head with his baseball bat after striking out at the plate. His temporary lapse of judgment resulted in a low-grade concussion which kept the two-time All-Star out of the lineup for the remainder of the season. “I’ve never had concussion-like symptoms in my life; it’s not fun,” a woozy Roberts said afterwards. “It’s not something you want to go through every day, that’s for sure. It’s a lesson to myself, a lesson to the kids to not do that, no matter how frustrated you are.” Bizarre injuries like Roberts’ are actually quite common in professional baseball, where players are constantly finding new and inventive ways to keep themselves on the sidelines. Learn more about baseball’s most bizarre injuries by clicking here.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Game Time Essentials
There are few family outings more thrilling than attending a sporting event -- if you’re properly prepared. Showing up without the right game time essentials can turn a pleasant afternoon at the ballpark into a torturous affair for everyone involved. That’s why I’ve compiled a handy guide to the top 10 things you’ll need for attending a live sporting event. My list includes a lineup of must-have items as well as details on where you can find them and what may happen if you leave them behind. Learn more by clicking here.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Question of the Week
Jason, Fargo, ND
Subj: Have basketball, will travel
Which NBA player holds the record for having played with the most teams?
That honor is shared by NBA journeymen Chucky Brown, Tony Massenburg and Jim Jackson, all of whom played for 12 different teams during their careers. Although all three men are exceptionally well-traveled, Massenburg deserves special mention for also plying his trade in Europe during the first third of his professional career. Even now, he regards his nomadic lifestyle as being a tremendous badge of honor. “I must have been doing something right,” he says proudly. “People aren't going to just keep passing you around if you can't bring anything to the court. It's just a part of the business, that's how I look at it.” The University of Maryland alum nearly added a 13th team to his resume in 2007 when he tried out with the Washington Wizards. Unfortunately the team had little use for his services and waived the then 40-year-old power forward prior to the first game of the season.
Subj: Have basketball, will travel
Which NBA player holds the record for having played with the most teams?
That honor is shared by NBA journeymen Chucky Brown, Tony Massenburg and Jim Jackson, all of whom played for 12 different teams during their careers. Although all three men are exceptionally well-traveled, Massenburg deserves special mention for also plying his trade in Europe during the first third of his professional career. Even now, he regards his nomadic lifestyle as being a tremendous badge of honor. “I must have been doing something right,” he says proudly. “People aren't going to just keep passing you around if you can't bring anything to the court. It's just a part of the business, that's how I look at it.” The University of Maryland alum nearly added a 13th team to his resume in 2007 when he tried out with the Washington Wizards. Unfortunately the team had little use for his services and waived the then 40-year-old power forward prior to the first game of the season.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Three's a Crowd
Dale, Hemet, CA
Subj: Three of a kind
Much has been made of the dominance of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami, but who do you think are the best threesomes in NBA history?
Superb question Dale! After several hours of careful consideration I’ve come up with five deserving trios and one honorable mention. My selections are based upon offensive proficiency, winning percentage and overall dominance.
5. Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen – LeBron James and co. may be the league's best contemporary trio, but until the win their first championship "Gang Green" will continue to hold onto this prestigious spot.
Best offensive season: 2007-2008. Pierce, Garnett and Allen are currently lit up opponents to the tune of 55.8 points per game en route to winning the NBA championship.
4. Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman – Admittedly more of a “Big Two” than a “Big Three” Jordan and Pippen were so dominant during their prime that it seems like a shame to exclude them from this list. That’s why I paired them with Rodman, a defensive demon who helped the Bulls win three consecutive championships from 1996-to-1998. Although Jordan and Pippen’s 50 + points per game were key, it’s unlikely Chicago would have been nearly as dominant without the Worm’s willingness to do the dirty work and defend the other team’s top scorer.
Best offensive season: 1995-1996. The Bulls finished the 1996 season with a 72-10 record as their three main men combined for an average of 55.0 points per game.
3. Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain – It isn’t often that a team can put three Hall of Famers on the court at the same time, but that’s precisely the luxury the Lakers had during the late 60’s and early 70’s when they suited up Jerry West, Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain. The high scoring trio went to the NBA Finals in three consecutive years before bowing out to the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks. Despite their inability to win a title, Wilt, Big E and The Logo are all charter members of the league’s 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
Best offensive season: 1969-1970. Opponents didn’t stand a chance against the Lake Show in 1970 when their three primary offensive weapons combined for an eye-popping 82.5 points per game. Granted, Wilt was injured for the bulk of the season, but when he was in the line-up Los Angeles was a formidable force.
2. Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parrish – The original “Big Three” Bird, McHale and Parrish led the Celtics to five NBA finals in the 1980’s, winning the championship three times. Although Bird was the team’s unquestioned leader, Parrish was also a rock in the paint and McHale was a surprisingly adept rebounder and shot blocker who was named to the NBA All-Defensive First or Second Team six times during his illustrious career.
Best offensive season: 1986-1987. The C’s were firing on all cylinders in 1987 when their “Big Three” combined for an absurd 71.7 points per game. Unfortunately their supporting cast let them down in the postseason and Boston fell to the Lakers 4 games to 2 in the NBA Finals.
1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and James Worthy – Although often overshadowed by their East Coast rivals, Kareem, Magic and Worthy formed the backbone of a Lakers squad that won four championships during the 1980s. Their selflessness and clutch play kept them on top of the standings year after year and their fan-friendly, fast breaking attack revitalized a league that was teetering on the brink of irrelevance.
Best offensive season: 1985-1986. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, there’s no denying that the Showtime Lakers knew how to put the ball in the basket. L.A.’s terrific trio were at their best statistically in 1986 when they combined for 62.2 points per game.
Honorable Mention: Tim Hardaway, Chris Mullin and Mitch Richmond – Although this trio never won a championship they did manage to keep things interesting by scorching their opponents on a nightly basis. Hardaway initiated the attack with his killer UTEP Two Step, while Mullin and Richmond kept defenses guessing with their nearly unstoppable inside-outside game.
Best offensive season: 1990-1991. Run TMC set the league on fire in 1991 when they combined for 72.5 points per game. Sadly for fans around the league, the trio was broken up the following year when Richmond was unwisely traded to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Billy Owens.
Subj: Three of a kind
Much has been made of the dominance of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh in Miami, but who do you think are the best threesomes in NBA history?
Superb question Dale! After several hours of careful consideration I’ve come up with five deserving trios and one honorable mention. My selections are based upon offensive proficiency, winning percentage and overall dominance.
5. Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen – LeBron James and co. may be the league's best contemporary trio, but until the win their first championship "Gang Green" will continue to hold onto this prestigious spot.
Best offensive season: 2007-2008. Pierce, Garnett and Allen are currently lit up opponents to the tune of 55.8 points per game en route to winning the NBA championship.
4. Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman – Admittedly more of a “Big Two” than a “Big Three” Jordan and Pippen were so dominant during their prime that it seems like a shame to exclude them from this list. That’s why I paired them with Rodman, a defensive demon who helped the Bulls win three consecutive championships from 1996-to-1998. Although Jordan and Pippen’s 50 + points per game were key, it’s unlikely Chicago would have been nearly as dominant without the Worm’s willingness to do the dirty work and defend the other team’s top scorer.
Best offensive season: 1995-1996. The Bulls finished the 1996 season with a 72-10 record as their three main men combined for an average of 55.0 points per game.
3. Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain – It isn’t often that a team can put three Hall of Famers on the court at the same time, but that’s precisely the luxury the Lakers had during the late 60’s and early 70’s when they suited up Jerry West, Elgin Baylor and Wilt Chamberlain. The high scoring trio went to the NBA Finals in three consecutive years before bowing out to the Boston Celtics and the New York Knicks. Despite their inability to win a title, Wilt, Big E and The Logo are all charter members of the league’s 50 Greatest Players in NBA History.
Best offensive season: 1969-1970. Opponents didn’t stand a chance against the Lake Show in 1970 when their three primary offensive weapons combined for an eye-popping 82.5 points per game. Granted, Wilt was injured for the bulk of the season, but when he was in the line-up Los Angeles was a formidable force.
2. Larry Bird, Kevin McHale and Robert Parrish – The original “Big Three” Bird, McHale and Parrish led the Celtics to five NBA finals in the 1980’s, winning the championship three times. Although Bird was the team’s unquestioned leader, Parrish was also a rock in the paint and McHale was a surprisingly adept rebounder and shot blocker who was named to the NBA All-Defensive First or Second Team six times during his illustrious career.
Best offensive season: 1986-1987. The C’s were firing on all cylinders in 1987 when their “Big Three” combined for an absurd 71.7 points per game. Unfortunately their supporting cast let them down in the postseason and Boston fell to the Lakers 4 games to 2 in the NBA Finals.
1. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson and James Worthy – Although often overshadowed by their East Coast rivals, Kareem, Magic and Worthy formed the backbone of a Lakers squad that won four championships during the 1980s. Their selflessness and clutch play kept them on top of the standings year after year and their fan-friendly, fast breaking attack revitalized a league that was teetering on the brink of irrelevance.
Best offensive season: 1985-1986. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, there’s no denying that the Showtime Lakers knew how to put the ball in the basket. L.A.’s terrific trio were at their best statistically in 1986 when they combined for 62.2 points per game.
Honorable Mention: Tim Hardaway, Chris Mullin and Mitch Richmond – Although this trio never won a championship they did manage to keep things interesting by scorching their opponents on a nightly basis. Hardaway initiated the attack with his killer UTEP Two Step, while Mullin and Richmond kept defenses guessing with their nearly unstoppable inside-outside game.
Best offensive season: 1990-1991. Run TMC set the league on fire in 1991 when they combined for 72.5 points per game. Sadly for fans around the league, the trio was broken up the following year when Richmond was unwisely traded to the Sacramento Kings in exchange for Billy Owens.
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Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Question of the Week
Jack, El Paso, TX
Subj: Pure perfection
Who pitched the first perfect game in American League history?
That honor belongs to Denton “Cy” Young, who ensured his place in the history books on May 5, 1904 when he retired all 27 batters he faced in a 3-0 victory over the Philadelphia Athletics. Athletics manager Connie Mack was so blown away by Young’s dominant performance that he later called it the most impressive game ever pitched.
So how did Young do it? Pure concentration. The 6’2” hurler was so focused on the task at hand that he had no idea he had accomplished the feat until his teammates mobbed him on the mound following the final out.
Subj: Pure perfection
Who pitched the first perfect game in American League history?
That honor belongs to Denton “Cy” Young, who ensured his place in the history books on May 5, 1904 when he retired all 27 batters he faced in a 3-0 victory over the Philadelphia Athletics. Athletics manager Connie Mack was so blown away by Young’s dominant performance that he later called it the most impressive game ever pitched.
So how did Young do it? Pure concentration. The 6’2” hurler was so focused on the task at hand that he had no idea he had accomplished the feat until his teammates mobbed him on the mound following the final out.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Least-Deserving MLB All-Stars
Baseball’s Mid-Season Classic is fast approaching, and while the event aims to toast the very best talent in the Major Leagues, one or two undeserving players always squeak in due to the league’s ridiculous rule requiring every team have at least one representative. That statute may have made sense back in 1935 when there were only 16 teams, but now that the league has expanded to 30 squads it’s allowed dozens of hopelessly inefficient fielders and maddeningly inconsistent hurlers to sneak onto Baseball’s biggest stage. Grab your hat, adjust your cup and click HERE as I examine the top 10 least-deserving MLB All-Stars from the past 20 years.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Question of the Week
Donald, East Lansing, MI
Subj: Smartypants
In your opinion, who is the smartest guy in the history of sports?
That depends a lot on whom you ask. Reggie Jackson once claimed he had an IQ of 160, thereby putting him on par with Albert Einstein, Bill Gates and Stephen Hawking. However, his assertion prompted more ridicule than respect and led fellow Yankee Mickey Rivers to quip, "Reggie's got an IQ of 160? Out of what - a thousand?"
One undeniably smart athlete was Pat McInally, a Pro Bowl punter from Harvard who remains the only football player to ever record a perfect score on the NFL’s vaunted Wonderlic Test. Unlike most of his peers, McInally wasn’t fazed at all by the dreaded quiz. "It really did seem like an easy test at the time,” he recalls. “One of the reasons I did so well is because I didn't think it mattered. So I think I didn't feel any pressure at all. It was more of a lark, and that's when you do your best. If I took it 100 times I'd probably never do that again."
McInally displayed his smarts once again during the final year of his career in 1986 when he developed Starting Lineup, a sports-themed collection of action figures that went onto generate millions of dollars in sales.
As brilliant as McInally and Jackson may be, they both pale in comparison to New York Knicks center Jerome James. After all, the lumbering pivot man was smart enough to trick the Knicks into rewarding him with a five-year, $30 million contract despite the fact he has the get up and go of a punch drunk sloth. James started 20 games over a three year span and never averaged more than 3 points and 2 rebounds per game for the Knickerbockers. Now that’s using your noggin!
Subj: Smartypants
In your opinion, who is the smartest guy in the history of sports?
That depends a lot on whom you ask. Reggie Jackson once claimed he had an IQ of 160, thereby putting him on par with Albert Einstein, Bill Gates and Stephen Hawking. However, his assertion prompted more ridicule than respect and led fellow Yankee Mickey Rivers to quip, "Reggie's got an IQ of 160? Out of what - a thousand?"
One undeniably smart athlete was Pat McInally, a Pro Bowl punter from Harvard who remains the only football player to ever record a perfect score on the NFL’s vaunted Wonderlic Test. Unlike most of his peers, McInally wasn’t fazed at all by the dreaded quiz. "It really did seem like an easy test at the time,” he recalls. “One of the reasons I did so well is because I didn't think it mattered. So I think I didn't feel any pressure at all. It was more of a lark, and that's when you do your best. If I took it 100 times I'd probably never do that again."
McInally displayed his smarts once again during the final year of his career in 1986 when he developed Starting Lineup, a sports-themed collection of action figures that went onto generate millions of dollars in sales.
As brilliant as McInally and Jackson may be, they both pale in comparison to New York Knicks center Jerome James. After all, the lumbering pivot man was smart enough to trick the Knicks into rewarding him with a five-year, $30 million contract despite the fact he has the get up and go of a punch drunk sloth. James started 20 games over a three year span and never averaged more than 3 points and 2 rebounds per game for the Knickerbockers. Now that’s using your noggin!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
College Stars Who Fizzled In The NBA
Every year the NBA drafts a new batch of collegiate superstars and every year nearly half of them fall flat on their faces as they struggle to adapt to the speed and athleticism of the pro game. From recent rejects like Evan Turner to veteran busts like Shelden Williams, the league is full of can’t miss prospects who have kept on missing from all over the court. Come along as I examine the top 10 college stars of the past 25 years who have fizzled in the NBA. To narrow the field I’ve chosen to examine only bona fide team leaders and All-Americans who were top 10 picks in their respective draft classes. Read more by clicking here.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Question of the Week
Roger, Canton, IL
Subj: Simply the best
In your opinion, which state has produced the best quarterbacks?
My vote goes to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State has given us some of the finest signal callers in the history of the game, including Johnny Unitas, Johnny Lujack, Joe Namath, George Blanda, Dan Marino, Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, Tom Clements, Chuck Fusina, Arnold Galiffa, Charlie Batch, Kerry Collins, Jeff Hostetler and Terry Hanratty. So, what is it that makes Pennsylvania a cradle for quarterbacks? Unitas has gone on record crediting the state’s no-nonsense blue collar background and spirit of "Toughness, dedication, hard work and competitiveness.” Certainly, any state known for its steel mills and coal mines is bound to produce athletes infused with an unyielding resilience and a refusal to quit.
Subj: Simply the best
In your opinion, which state has produced the best quarterbacks?
My vote goes to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State has given us some of the finest signal callers in the history of the game, including Johnny Unitas, Johnny Lujack, Joe Namath, George Blanda, Dan Marino, Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, Tom Clements, Chuck Fusina, Arnold Galiffa, Charlie Batch, Kerry Collins, Jeff Hostetler and Terry Hanratty. So, what is it that makes Pennsylvania a cradle for quarterbacks? Unitas has gone on record crediting the state’s no-nonsense blue collar background and spirit of "Toughness, dedication, hard work and competitiveness.” Certainly, any state known for its steel mills and coal mines is bound to produce athletes infused with an unyielding resilience and a refusal to quit.
Friday, April 15, 2011
5 Things You Should Know About Jackie Robinson
Baseball has always been a game of numbers, and on April 15, 2011, no number will be more important than 42. That’s the jersey number of Hall of Famer Jackie Robinson, and it will be worn by all 780 Major League Baseball players and managers as they honor the legacy of the first black player to break major-league baseball’s color line.
Born in Cairo, Georgia and raised in Pasadena, California, Robinson began his career in the Negro leagues before leading the Brooklyn Dodgers to six pennants and one World Championship over a memorable 10-year span.
His competitive nature made him one of the finest Major League Baseball players of his day and led Dodgers manager Leo Durocher to quip, “This guy didn't just come to play. He come to beat ya. He come to stuff the goddamn bat right up your ass."
Learn more about Jackie Robinson by clicking here.
Born in Cairo, Georgia and raised in Pasadena, California, Robinson began his career in the Negro leagues before leading the Brooklyn Dodgers to six pennants and one World Championship over a memorable 10-year span.
His competitive nature made him one of the finest Major League Baseball players of his day and led Dodgers manager Leo Durocher to quip, “This guy didn't just come to play. He come to beat ya. He come to stuff the goddamn bat right up your ass."
Learn more about Jackie Robinson by clicking here.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
In The Spotlight
Steve Nash isn’t your typical NBA player. While most of his peers are muscular mutants with single digit IQs, Nash is a hyper-intelligent, floppy-haired goofball whose passion for basketball is rivaled only by his keen interest in politics, filmmaking and sustainability. Despite his unusual makeup, this carefree Canuck has become a six-time All-Star and a two-time league MVP, proving once and for all that good guys don’t always finish last. Read more about Nash by clicking here.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Question of the Week
David, Fort Smith, AR
Subj: Coaching titles
Okay, what is it with these coaches and their titles of "assistant head coach" and "associate head coach" and co-offensive coordinator and co-head coach and such? Heck, here at Arkansas we had a running game coordinator and a passing game coordinator and an offensive coordinator (I think-- he might have gotten lost in the title shuffle). Whatever happened to "coach"?
You bring up a fabulous point David. It wasn’t long ago that men like Pud Galvin pitched 72 complete games a year, football players like Jim Thorpe played on both sides of the ball and a single coach could control an entire team all on his own. Although I can appreciate the need for specialization, a part of me also longs for a time when your dentist could simultaneously cut your hair while also giving you a good bleeding with a leech. Now those were the days!
Subj: Coaching titles
Okay, what is it with these coaches and their titles of "assistant head coach" and "associate head coach" and co-offensive coordinator and co-head coach and such? Heck, here at Arkansas we had a running game coordinator and a passing game coordinator and an offensive coordinator (I think-- he might have gotten lost in the title shuffle). Whatever happened to "coach"?
You bring up a fabulous point David. It wasn’t long ago that men like Pud Galvin pitched 72 complete games a year, football players like Jim Thorpe played on both sides of the ball and a single coach could control an entire team all on his own. Although I can appreciate the need for specialization, a part of me also longs for a time when your dentist could simultaneously cut your hair while also giving you a good bleeding with a leech. Now those were the days!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
What's In A Name?
Frank, Bethesda, MD
Subj: What’s in a name?
How did Muggsy Bogues get his nickname?
Most basketball fans recall Tyrone Curtis Bogues as being a cute and huggable ambassador of the game, but the reality is that this 5’3” sparkplug grew up in one of Baltimore’s most dangerous housing projects and saw his father carted off to the clink on an armed robbery charge when he was just 12. "I grew up as hard as you can get it," Bogues told Sports Illustrated years later. "I wasn't proud of what my pops did, but I guess at the time he felt that was his only means of survival." That experience, combined with his diminutive size contributed to Bogues usually being the dirtiest and most physical player on the court. In fact, Bogues manhandled his opponents so much that fellow Dunbar Poet – and 5’5” guard - Dwayne Woods named him “Muggsy” because his style of play reminded him of a mugging. The name stuck and Bogues still answers to his colorful moniker to this day.
Subj: What’s in a name?
How did Muggsy Bogues get his nickname?
Most basketball fans recall Tyrone Curtis Bogues as being a cute and huggable ambassador of the game, but the reality is that this 5’3” sparkplug grew up in one of Baltimore’s most dangerous housing projects and saw his father carted off to the clink on an armed robbery charge when he was just 12. "I grew up as hard as you can get it," Bogues told Sports Illustrated years later. "I wasn't proud of what my pops did, but I guess at the time he felt that was his only means of survival." That experience, combined with his diminutive size contributed to Bogues usually being the dirtiest and most physical player on the court. In fact, Bogues manhandled his opponents so much that fellow Dunbar Poet – and 5’5” guard - Dwayne Woods named him “Muggsy” because his style of play reminded him of a mugging. The name stuck and Bogues still answers to his colorful moniker to this day.
NCAA Powerhouses
This year’s NCAA tournament bracket has plenty of names that may be unfamiliar to casual basketball observers. St. Peters? Never heard of ‘em. Morehead State? Heck, we didn’t even know that Morehead was a state. Luckily for you, we’ve separated the wheat from the chaff with our comprehensive list of NCAA powerhouses. Each of the following programs has been selected to reflect its perennial dominance in tournament and conference play, its list of outstanding alumni, and, of course, it’s overall consistency. There are no Cinderellas here, just collegiate goliaths who are always in the thick of the hunt. Read all about it by clicking here.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Question of the Week
Liam, Topeka, KS
Subj: March Madness
In your opinion, what was the greatest NCAA basketball team of all time?
Great question, Liam. I’d personally have to select the 1971-1972 UCLA Bruins. The team was loaded from top to bottom with lightning fast guard Henry Bibby, sweet-shooting forward Jamaal Wilkes, dependable banger Swen Nater and Naismith award winner Bill Walton, the prototypical college pivot. In addition to posting a perfect 30-0 record during the regular season, the Bruins also breezed through the NCAA Tournament en route to capturing their eighth national title. As if that weren’t impressive enough, the team also led the country in point differential by regularly walloping their opponents by a margin of 30.3 points per game.
Subj: March Madness
In your opinion, what was the greatest NCAA basketball team of all time?
Great question, Liam. I’d personally have to select the 1971-1972 UCLA Bruins. The team was loaded from top to bottom with lightning fast guard Henry Bibby, sweet-shooting forward Jamaal Wilkes, dependable banger Swen Nater and Naismith award winner Bill Walton, the prototypical college pivot. In addition to posting a perfect 30-0 record during the regular season, the Bruins also breezed through the NCAA Tournament en route to capturing their eighth national title. As if that weren’t impressive enough, the team also led the country in point differential by regularly walloping their opponents by a margin of 30.3 points per game.
Mad About Mascots
Have you ever wondered who puts the real lunacy into March Madness? It’s the mascots of course. From Buckeyes to Badgers and from Tar Heels to Tigers, this year’s NCAA tournament will be overrun with oddly proportioned critters cheering their respective teams on to victory. Learn more about the hidden lives of NCAA mascots by clicking here.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Question of the Week
Steve, Jamestown, RI
Subj: Food for thought
Is it true that the sports teams at Scottsdale Community College are known as the Fighting Artichokes?
That’s correct, Steve. The student body selected the unorthodox moniker back in 1972 as a way of protesting the administration’s decision to invest heavily in athletics at the expense of traditional academic programs. Naturally, the college declared the election null and void, but the students rallied around their decision and Artie the lovable green artichoke has been the big vegetable on campus ever since. Surprisingly, Artie isn’t the only tasty morsel who has become a mascot. Folks at Delta State University have been cheering on the Fighting Okra for more than a decade and the North Carolina School of the Arts has been home to the Fighting Pickles since the early 1970’s.
Subj: Food for thought
Is it true that the sports teams at Scottsdale Community College are known as the Fighting Artichokes?
That’s correct, Steve. The student body selected the unorthodox moniker back in 1972 as a way of protesting the administration’s decision to invest heavily in athletics at the expense of traditional academic programs. Naturally, the college declared the election null and void, but the students rallied around their decision and Artie the lovable green artichoke has been the big vegetable on campus ever since. Surprisingly, Artie isn’t the only tasty morsel who has become a mascot. Folks at Delta State University have been cheering on the Fighting Okra for more than a decade and the North Carolina School of the Arts has been home to the Fighting Pickles since the early 1970’s.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
In The Spotlight
Professional athletes bounce back from injuries all the time, but it isn’t often that a player returns to form after suffering through a crippling bout of depression. That’s precisely what Reds first baseman Joey Votto did in 2010 when he won the National League Most Valuable Player Award, two years after the sudden loss of his father sent him into a downward spiral filled with hospital visits and near-death experiences. “I was... dealing with the anxieties of grief, sadness, fear, and every emotion you can imagine one goes through,” he admits. “I had a difficult time, [but] I'm here now, and I'm doing better. That's all that matters.” Votto’s remarkable resurgence has since become a source of inspiration for those suffering with anxiety and depression. Learn more about his journey by clicking here.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Question of the Week
Tom, Mountain View, CA
Subj: What are the odds?
Hey Ryan, I’m going to Vegas this weekend and was wondering which game will give me the best odds of winning?
Excellent question Tom! If I were a betting man I would put my money on craps. This fast-paced dice game offers the smallest house advantage, thereby giving you a chance to rake in some serious dough. And that’s a good thing when it comes time to bail your buddies out of jail.
Before you head for the tables you may want to bone up on the rules online at casinotop10.net. This fabulously comprehensive site is full of helpful hints that will allow you to leave Sin City with a few extra shekels in your pockets.
For those of you unable to make it to Vegas you can still increase your personal wealth by playing some online craps at an internet casino. These virtual destinations generally offer the same odds and payback percentages as land-based casinos without the risk of bumping into Wayne Newton. Good luck!
Subj: What are the odds?
Hey Ryan, I’m going to Vegas this weekend and was wondering which game will give me the best odds of winning?
Excellent question Tom! If I were a betting man I would put my money on craps. This fast-paced dice game offers the smallest house advantage, thereby giving you a chance to rake in some serious dough. And that’s a good thing when it comes time to bail your buddies out of jail.
Before you head for the tables you may want to bone up on the rules online at casinotop10.net. This fabulously comprehensive site is full of helpful hints that will allow you to leave Sin City with a few extra shekels in your pockets.
For those of you unable to make it to Vegas you can still increase your personal wealth by playing some online craps at an internet casino. These virtual destinations generally offer the same odds and payback percentages as land-based casinos without the risk of bumping into Wayne Newton. Good luck!
Question of the Week
Roger, Canton, IL
Subj: Simply the best
In your opinion, which state has produced the best quarterbacks?
My vote goes to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State has given us some of the finest signal callers in the history of the game, including Johnny Unitas, Johnny Lujack, Joe Namath, George Blanda, Dan Marino, Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, Tom Clements, Chuck Fusina, Arnold Galiffa, Charlie Batch, Kerry Collins, Jeff Hostetler and Terry Hanratty.
So, what is it that makes Pennsylvania a cradle for quarterbacks? Unitas has gone on record crediting the state’s no-nonsense blue collar background and spirit of "Toughness, dedication, hard work and competitiveness.” Certainly, any state known for its steel mills and coal mines is bound to produce athletes infused with an unyielding resilience and a refusal to quit.
Subj: Simply the best
In your opinion, which state has produced the best quarterbacks?
My vote goes to Pennsylvania. The Keystone State has given us some of the finest signal callers in the history of the game, including Johnny Unitas, Johnny Lujack, Joe Namath, George Blanda, Dan Marino, Joe Montana, Jim Kelly, Tom Clements, Chuck Fusina, Arnold Galiffa, Charlie Batch, Kerry Collins, Jeff Hostetler and Terry Hanratty.
So, what is it that makes Pennsylvania a cradle for quarterbacks? Unitas has gone on record crediting the state’s no-nonsense blue collar background and spirit of "Toughness, dedication, hard work and competitiveness.” Certainly, any state known for its steel mills and coal mines is bound to produce athletes infused with an unyielding resilience and a refusal to quit.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
In The Spotlight
Oklahoma City point guard Russell Westbrook has come a long way since high school. “I didn’t dunk for the first time until the last game of my senior year,” he sheepishly admits. “I didn’t really start dunking regularly until college.” Now, three years into his professional career, Westbrook regularly challenges some of the NBA’s top players with a dizzying array of rim-rattling slams. His ability to break down defenses and penetrate at will has transformed the Thunder into one of league’s most fearsome teams and has this high-flying finisher on the brink of superstardom. Learn more about Westbrook by clicking here.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
In The Spotlight
Kobe Bryant may still be the best shooting guard in L.A., but it’s only a matter of time before Eric Gordon seizes his title. Blessed with limitless range and a rapidly developing game, this spectacular sharpshooter is quickly becoming one of the most lethal scorers in the NBA. Learn more about Gordon by clicking here.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
In The Spotlight
Aaron Rodgers has come a long way from being Brett Favre’s understudy. An afterthought in Green Bay during his first three years in the league, he has since emerged as the undisputed face of the franchise after leading the Packers to their first championship title in 14 years. “The challenge now goes to repeating, scrutinizing this season, finding out ways to get better,” Rodgers said after the team’s 31-25 victory over the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV. “Obviously, having a coach who's a perfectionist and a quarterback’s coach as well, there's going to be plenty of time to work on things and plenty of things to work on. I'm excited about enjoying this but also about improving." Learn more about Rodgers by clicking here.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
In The Spotlight
An NBA All-Star and Olympic gold medalist, Deron Williams has guided the Jazz deep into the playoffs in each of the last four seasons. “A point guard is judged by wins and losses,” he says. “I think I’m doing a good job.” This 6’3” West Virginian currently leads Utah in scoring, assists and minutes, and is second in steals. Learn more about Williams by clicking here.
Friday, January 21, 2011
In The Spotlight
It isn’t often that college football players spurn the NFL, especially when they’re the prohibitive favorite to be selected first overall in the league’s annual amateur draft. But that’s precisely what Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck did on January 6, 2011, when he announced he would be turning down a $50 million-payday to return to school and complete his degree. “A big part of going to a university like Stanford is to get a degree and graduate and have that opportunity to go into the business world or whatever world it is with a Stanford degree,” he said at the time. “It’s a big deal.” Luck’s bold decision sent shock waves throughout the U.S., as pundits alternate between questioning his sanity and praising his maturity. Learn more about Luck by clicking here.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
In The Spotlight
Considered by many to be the best heavyweight fighter of his generation, Wladimir Klitschko has been brutally dispatching opponents since November 16, 1996, when he knocked out Fabian Meza in his professional debut. This menacing 6’5” bruiser is currently the IBF, WBO, IBO ,and Ring magazine champion, and if he has his way, his next fight will be a unification match against WBA champion David Haye. “I want to wipe Haye out of the ring,” he says. “I want to punish him for 12 rounds and then knock him out. I think he’s obnoxious, and I don’t like how he walks and how he talks.” Learn more about this big bruiser by clicking here.
Monday, January 17, 2011
In The Spotlight
The nephew of Beach Boys singer Mike Love, this 6’10" bruiser recently became the first player in 28 years to record 30 points and 30 rebounds in an NBA game. "I just got a good mind-set that every single one was mine," he says of his historic night. "It seemed like no matter what anybody did, I was going to go and get those rebounds. I don't know what to tell you. I impressed myself. I don't even know what to say, to be honest with you." Get all the Love you can handle by clicking here.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
In The Spotlight
It isn’t difficult to figure out what drives Ndamukong Suh. The second pick of the 2010 NFL Draft, this freakish defensive tackle loves to make opposing quarterbacks soil themselves as he viciously mauls their offensive linemen. "My motivation is to have the quarterback fear me," he says. "Make him feel my presence. Have him always second-guessing, 'Where's Suh at, where the hell's he at?' I just love being able to dominate people." Suh’s ability to get into quarterbacks' heads has helped the Lions achieve their best record since 2007 and has him on pace to win the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year award. Learn more about Suh by clicking here.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
In The Spotlight
Terrell Owens has been called a tempestuous prima donna, a locker room pariah and an egomaniacal diva. And that’s just by his admirers. Whether he’s signing footballs in the end zone or breaking down during press conferences, this one-man circus always manages to keep us entertained with his over-the-top antics. "My thing is that I'm going to try and have fun with the game,” he says. “I believe in transcending our sport, not just staying between the lines.” Learn more about this outspoken wide receiver by clicking here.
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