Tarheels roll over No. 1 Ohio State

UNC's 98-89 victory Wednesday night against Ohio State wasn't short of spectacular. It was a sharp shooting exchange between the two teams. Outside the Big Ten it was Ohio State's first loss. Tyler Hansbrough and freshman Wayne Ellington combined for 40 points as the Heels were able to make a run late in the second half. Freshman Ty Lawson chipped in with 13 points and 5 assists. The Buckeyes were hot from three point land, shooting 50%. Sustaining the offensive firepower was tough, but the Tarheels were up to the challenge.

Luckily Ohio State's Greg Oden was unable to play due to injury as he watched from the sidelines in street clothes. The Carolina defense finally took over in the second half, stopping their opponent beyond the arc explosion. Armed with a new strategy, Roy Williams gave his troops the direction and motivation they needed. They went on a 17-2 run, which involved them getting some quick fast-break points as well as off transition from turnovers. UNC started to make a turnaround with close to 4 minutes left in the first half as Bobby Frasor dished to Tyler Hansbrough at the basket for a big flush.

Even though UNC came out on top, I got to give props to the Buckeyes' Ron Lewis who finished with 30 points (13-for-26 FG). He kept them within a short margin until late in the second half. North Carolina improves to 5-1 with the win. Their next opponent will be Kentucky on Saturday. I'm sure Chapel Hill will be rocking for the upcoming, high energy and competitive contest. The Heels look to provide frills throughout the nearing new year.

The Hall Of Fame comes a calling....but not for McGwire

The baseball world has spoken. Around 74% of active participants in a recent poll voted no to electing Mark McGwire into the Hall Of Fame. I'm not surprised at all. Too many people feel he's cheated his way to historic records and smeared his career achievements. During the congressional hearing concerning steroids in March 2005 McGwire gave most everyone the impression he was guilty by failing to comment about his career and what went on prior to 1998. I don't see why any chair member in baseball would vote for him now because he has yet to come forth and be honest. Fans know players do illegal stuff behind closed doors sometimes and are willing to forgive.

The St. Louis star slugger would've been included on the 2007 ballot which includes inductee hopefuls such as Tony Gwynn, Cal Ripken Jr., Andre Dawson, Paul O'neil, Albert Belle, Don Mattingly, Bobby Bonilla, Bret Saberhagen, Lee Smith, and Dale Murphy. Most of these stars played with intregity and didn't leave the game with questionable ethical actions. If McGwire wants to get elected into the Hall he has no other choice, but to be bold enough to admit his mistakes and accept his fate. I want to believe there are some fans who still have compassion for him and will be open-minded until hearing the truth (if it ever surfaces).

Everyone will remember the magical homerun chase in 1998 between McGwire and Sammy Sosa. The 70 homerun the first baseman hit could be insigniciant, having an asterisk beside them in the record books. However, even with McGwire admitting he used steroids MLB can view his stats from the early part of his career and still see he was a homerun hitter, a clutch performer, and just may be that will give him merit and some credibility. His 583 career homeruns will also be took into consideration. Going down in history though only as a cheater and liar will truly tarnish his career as baseball and fans will see pass all other honorable achievements.

Utah Jazz on a roll, win eighth straight game

Whatever has happened to the Utah Jazz has really motivated them to play outstanding basketball. Coming off a 114-108 victory against the Lakers last night, the Jazz move to 12-1. The player of the game was Carlos Boozer, who scored 26 points on 13-26 shooting from the field and grabbed 16 rebounds. The young star forward continues to impress and get better as the season rolls along. Deron Williams finished with 15 points and 10 assists, contributing to the win. Utah shot 54% on field goals for the game, which is incredible. Not to take anything away from the Lakers, but they'd looked unstoppable in the paint.

At the moment the Jazz are sitting atop the Northwest division in the Western conference, owning the best record in the NBA. They're going to be a tough opponent to beat in the West this year. The rally in the fourth quarter against Los Angeles showed what Utah is capable of in pressure situations. Yet it's still early in the year and their record could change drastically in the second half, but if they are injury free the competition will be in for a surprise. I think too many times in the past this team has been underestimated and now that's why they're so driven and motivated to win.

Tonight they travel to Golden State, where the Warriors are 6-3. However they'll be without Baron Davis, who is sidelined with a rib injury. He's their central point of the offensive attack so mainly Utah will have shut down Jason Richardson and Monta Ellis while playing good interior defense to pick up their 9th consecutive win. I have a feeling the Utah Jazz will take the Western conference by storm and garner a top seed in the playoffs.

Gonzaga's Derek Raivio lays up a finger roll against UNC. A/P Julie Jacobson

NIT not kind to Tarheels

Before a heated battle against Gonzaga Wednesday night in New York, UNC received a warm greeting from the partisan crowd. Everyone among packed stadium anticipated that the Heels would walk away with a victory and advance into the next round. It was not to be as the 'Zags tight D and sharp perimeter shooting were too much for Carolina. Sure it was a close game, down to the wire with 1:30 left before Gonzaga completely pulled away. Gonzaga senior, Derek Raivio (21 points) made a couple bad decisions late in the second half and turnovers that could have cost his team the game.

UNC freshman, Brandan Wright had a good game, finishing with 21 points. His free-throw shooting, however, was shaky as he went 7-for-14 from the line. Gonzaga's defensive strategy shut down Tyler Hansbrough for most of the game, double-teaming and pressuring him hard inside. The main difference though in the game was Gonzaga's three-point shooting (53%). Now the Bulldogs move on to play Butler Friday night in pursuit of a NIT championship. No one expected such a high tempo, back and forth game between UNC and Gonzaga.

The Tarheels, ranked #2 in the country coming into last night's game fall to 3-1 as the 'Zags' improve to 5-0. The competition will become more fierce for Carolina in the coming month. They'll face Tennessee, Ohio State, and Kentucky. The freshmen are counted on to fill more quality minutes on the floor while giving a lift off the bench. I expect them to come together better as a team and be motivated to play usual Carolina basketball under Coach Roy William's leadership.

UVA off to a good start

The Virginia Cavailers have looked like a more fresher, energized team than last year. Their two star guards, J.R. Reynolds and Sean Singletary return to be part of a potent backcourt. The starting lineup also includes Mamadi Diane (averaging 20.0 ppg) and Laurynas Mikalauskas, who showed he can play a solid inside game. UVA will need help this season from post player, taking the scoring load off Reynolds and Singletary at times. The Cavs are 2-0 after victories of Morgan State, 85-66 and Arizona, 93-90.

ACC play is sure to be much more tighter than in the past couple years since Duke or North Carolina isn't as strong due to players leaving for the NBA. Virginia has as good a chance as most conference opponents in entering the NCAA tournament this year. In the coming weeks UVA is scheduled to play UNC-Asheville, Maryland Eastern Shore, Purdue, NC State, and Hampton. The competition will start to heat up though in December when they play rival ACC teams. Their defensive strength will be put to the test and Coach Dave Leiato must work on sound strategies to offset the opposition's scoring threat.

For the last 3 years or so the Cavs haven't thrived at having explosive inside scoring from their big men. This year Cav fans should see much more production in the paint. I predict that Sean Singletary will increase his points per game to at least 20 as he finished last season with around 18 a game. Having a new home, John Paul Jones arena may bring new life onto the basketball court and help this developing Cavs team exceed expectations. Good luck in the new season Cavs!

Can Wade weather the storm without Shaq?

The Miami Heat have the pressure riding high on them. After their rise to championship stardom many expect them to overcome and conquer again. Shaq is further injured and could be out for 4 weeks or longer for knee surgery. Obviously, not much has changed from last year's squad except the addition of rookie Robert Hite. Miami has got off to a slow start and critics think their season is starting to crumple. Give me a break, it's only the third week of the season. The blowout to the Knicks though was embarrassing and probably was a humbling experience.

Dwayne Wade, the leader of this team, has all eyes on him to step up big and take control. I remember how dominating he was in the Finals last year. If he can duplicate those past performances I think the Heat will be okay without Shaq for an extended period of time. Starter, Udonis Haslem is averaging solid numbers: 12.6 ppg 9.5 rpg. The older players, Zo and Payton though will have to fulfill their roles and contribute regularly. Mourning may not have lost some spring in his feet, but he can still be a force on the defensive end with his shot blocking ability.

Miami's 3-5 record doesn't dictate how they will play the rest of the way if they decide to commit and push themselves as a collective unit. Their depth and strength will be tested as they upcoming road games includes stops at Atlanta, New Orleans, and San Antonio. They'll be for some high scoring affairs if they don't play effective interior defense. Zone defense could be a necessary strategy to stop Tim Duncan. Antoine Walker will have to add his scoring touch to help out Wade. For now they'll have to put their focus on winning and forget about Shaq's injury.

Tarheels knock off Winthrop 73-66

Thanks in part again to Sophomore Tyler Hansbrough's hot shooting (9-13 FG) UNC prevailed over a Big South opponent to garner their second win. The 20 point performance from the 6'9 forward/center was enough to seal the deal. The Heels have a good returning lineup which includes Reshaun Terry, Bobby Frasor, Marcus Ginyard, and Tyler Hansbrough. A 7-point margin, however is not the the type of victories the Tarheels ring up against non-conference opponents. Terry, who is a proven scorer had an off-game, shooting 1-for-6 in the game and finished with 3 points.

Coach Roy Williams definitely doesn't have the team he did 2 years ago. The loss to George Mason in the Tournament was a surprise, but also a great learning experience for the freshmen. The early part of the schedule is unfavorable for the Tarheels. They're set to face Ohio State, Kentucky, Gonzaga the Rutgers, Saint Louis in November and December. The bench will have develop more and fill quality minutes. UNC will be put a test in the first half of the season. Luckily they'll have two sharp shooters, Wes Miller and Danny Green available off the bench.

The Tarheels will play Gardner Webber on Nov. 19. They shouldn't have any problems picking up another win. It should be tighter competition this year in the ACC as J.J. Redick, Robert Hite, and David Noel are gone and now in the NBA. There will be plenty of excitement in the air in college basketball, especially when tournament time rolls around.

Lebron and Jones lift Cavs' to win over Knicks

The poor New York Knicks can't catch a break to save their lives. Last night Cleveland rolled into the Garden and handed them their third loss at home. The 102-96 victory was sealed by Lebron James and Damon Jones, who both scored 29 points apiece. The Cavailers move to 5-2 on the season and have yet to face their toughest competition. If guys like Jones can put together good scoring performances then the load will be relieved off Lebron. Against New York they shot around 46 % as a team.

Though Damon Jones had a big game (7-10 3PA-M) I've not seen much offensive output from Drew Gooden and Big Z. These two normally crash the boards well and play good defense, but that won't be enough to propel the Cavs to the top of the Central division permanently. The Cavs were able to pull away from the Knicks Monday night in the 4th quarter despite Nate Robinson's best efforts (14 points). I imagine the chorus of boos grew louder and louder late in the game (and that was for just the Knicks). It could've been a much easier contest for the Cavs, nevertheless a victory is a victory and they'll take it.

On the schedule this week the Cavs will travel back home to face the Trail Brazers and Timberwolves before going to Washington D.C. to meet the Wizards on Saturday. I think a good sound strategy for shutting down Kevin Garnett and Zach Randolph will needed. The Cavs, Wiz contest is sure to be entertaining and it may be shootout between James and Arenas. Look for Lebron to bring it to hoop strong along with his power game. Woooooo! Go Cavs!

BD, motivates and believes in his team

BD keeping it real in Golden State, season outlook

The star qualities of dynamic point guard, Baron Davis are a blessing to the Golden State Warriors. They're lucky to have a veteran who knows how to effectively run the offense and always get teammates involved. His explosive first step, acrobatic offensive moves, and precise dishing define him as a player. He was brought over from the Hornets to inject energy to a sinking franchise and lead them to playoff contention. In two seasons the mission has yet to be accomplished. This is not Davis' fault because he did everything within his power to push this team over the hump.

Sunday the Warriors whooped up on the Pistons in route to a stunning 111-79 victory at home. Baron Davis completed a fantastic performance with 20 points, 9 assits, and 5 steals. He's averaging 20 ppg thus far. Earlier this week the Warriors snap the Hornets undefeated streak (4-0). Much of the Warriors' lineup and bench includes young, undeveloped talent. Small forward, Mike Dunleavy is becoming more of a scoring threat and Jason Richardson exhibits speed and vertical, aiding in many fast break points off transition. Ike Diogu and Mickael Pietrus are showing further promise, becoming stronger inside players.

At current the Warriors are 4-3 and it's early in the season, but many critics feel they won't clinch a final playoff seed in the West. No doubt about it, entering the postseason will be tough again. If Davis remains healthy for most of the season and starters Troy Murphy and Jason Richardson average at least 15 ppg a piece while the bench holds up their end of the bargain I think it's more than possible. Then again I still feel Golden State needs to acquire another durable veteran who can provide a scoring lift and relieve pressure from Baron Davis. The stakes will be high for the Warriors in 06-07, but I expect them to finish a couple games above .500 and be able to sneak into the playoffs.

Gators start season off right with a win

Being crowned NCAA champions last season was a time to relish for the Florida Gators. This weekend they wrapped up a win in their first game against Samford 79-54. Joakim Noah, the key star in last season's rise in becoming national champs delivered with a double-double, scoring 11 points with 15 rebounds and 6 assists. Florida won their 16th straight home opener under coach Billy Donovan. The Gators shot 58 percent on field goals for the game. In their run through the tournament they were able to overpower Villanova, George Mason, and UCLA.

The 2006 NCAA championship banner was placed in the rafters at home. Most of the Gators' lineup consists of juniors including Noah, Corey Brewer, Taurean Green, and Al Horford returning. Brewer averaged 19 points and 6 rebounds a game in the 05-06 campaign. Their two seniors, Lee Humphrey and Chris Richard will have give the team a lift by scoring more often this year. The Gators still have a good crop of young talent continuing to grow and develop.

On the upcoming schedule Florida will face North Florida on Nov. 14 then resume their home stand as they take on the Jacksonville Dolphins. After that the Chattanooga Mocs come to town on Nov. 18. They have a favorable schedule for the first 2 months. I think the Gators given their strength inside the paint, will shoot over 46 percent overall from the field and dominate some of the smaller teams in the South Eastern Conference. They will face their most daunting challenges against Kentucky and Kansas.

Labor union complains over increase in technical fouls

I knew it wouldn't take long before someone within the NBA came forth and cried over the new league policy on technical fouls. Commissioner Stern is now under scrunity by the Labor Union. They want him to tone down the enforcement by refs and let the NBA get back to it's old style of play (mugging and murderering people...I'm sorry that's off the court). Honestly, players shouldn't be whining at all since they won't have anything to worry about if they play the game clean. We know certain stars with big egos (Rasheed Wallace) will always put in their 2 cents worth, try to maime opponents and then act they never touched anyone.

Why can't players and NBA insiders be satisfied with the new stance on unnecessary less brute, physical play? Some of the ballers who learned their skills on the streets before they went pro need to make the adjustment. Trying to uppercut someone in the paint or clothesline them as they drive to the basket is indeed a foul, accept it. Guys must follow the rules whether they like it or not. Otherwise, they need to be suspended and fined. Sometimes such a penalty isn't enough to drive the message home. This is when I think it may be appropriate to dock their pay. They need to know they can't be allowed to be play basketball with reckless abandon.

Technical fouls won't be as much an issue if players keep their cool and play tough defense. The arguing with officials on almost every call only slows down the game and infuriates fans. Before long trash covers the court and riots break out in the stands. No one wants to witness such a travesty, especially those seated courtside who have a good chance of getting cracked in the head with a fold-out chair. The violence off the court can't be controlled, but on the court the NBA should continue to do everything in their power to maintain order. Getting rid of new Bill Lambeer and Dennis Rodmans will be best, avoiding tarnishing the game.

Wizards teammates duke it out in Washington

Last night's 106-103 loss to Orlando didn't make current matters any better for the Washington Wizards. This week Brendan Haywood and Etan Thomas got into an fight after comments made by Haywood's agent, who claimed the starting center position was given to Thomas over personal issues rather than professional ones. Apparently, there had been tension between the two players since the start of the season or prior to the season. The incident started when Thomas questioned Haywood about his agent's comments then threw a punch at him. In defense, Haywood slammed his teammate to the floor and preceded to tear out two of his dreadlocks (Ouch! Was that really necessary?). The rest of the team broke up the fighting.

Coach Eddie Jordan needs to sit down with both players and explain exactly why he made the decision he did to put together his lineup and be upfront about it. Brendan and Etan seem to have big egos and need to accept their roles on the team regardless of outside distractions which involve blaming others and sulking. There should be no conflicts at all. Brendan is probably jealous because he was the starter much of last season. He'll have to prove himself coming off the bench now and if he's lucky maybe Jordan will make him a starter off and on. Why can't these guys just get along? The bickering will only be a strain on the team.

The Wizards are 1-2 in the early going and look to rely on the sharp shooting from Gilbert Arenas. The trio of Jamison, Areans, and Butler make the Wiz a formidable opponent when they're all hot yet they still need a fiercesome big man in the paint at center that can contribute good numbers on a regular basis. It's up to Haywood and Thomas to put their differences aside and commit to helping their team win close games. I'm sure whomever starts at center will shoot over 53% on field goals and pull down their share of rebounds. What Washington, much like many contenders in the league must have is defense and that come from the inside.

If the two squabbling teammates can make amends the Wizards can concentrate on basketball, forget about such nonsense distractions, and start a winning streak. Antawn Jamison should be getting more shots per game and rely less on the three as opposed to scoring in the paint where he's unstoppable at times. Antonio Daniels will still be running the point. His ability to get others involved and avoid turnovers will be key in Washington's success. No matter who's on the court, Haywood and Thomas both must avoid foul trouble to keep a physical, large presence guarding around the low post.

Baller, Jalen Rose finds new home in Phoenix

Jalen Rose no longer has to suffer as a New York Knick. He has took his skills and attitude to the Phoenix Suns. His presence at the SG or SF position will give extra depth to an already reliable bench. Both the Heat and Pistons tried to pursue Rose, but it was the Suns who sealed the deal. With Amare Stoudamire's health still in question this Western conference contender needed another scorer. Honestly, I have never liked the former Michigan standout, but he will should give this team a nice boost. Rose signed a one-year contract with Phoenix after being put on waivers.

The fast-paced, high-powered Suns offense is a good fit for the veteran 6'8 small forward, shooting guard. Knowing Steve Nash, he'll find a way to get Jalen involved in the offensive attack. Rose who will now play for his 6th NBA team averaged just under 13 points per game last season for the Knicks in 26 games. If another injury resurfaces this could turn out to be a bum deal for the Suns. Also known for his street style of play, trash talk, disfavor with refs, he is probably going to run into problems with the new NBA policy for ejections. He as well as other star players may not be able to handle the stricter enforcements.

Rose, 33, feels he is now in position to finally win a championship. I hate to tell him, but he had a better chance of reaching the promise land with Miami. Oh well the decision has already been made. Rose, however does join an all-star cast which includes Steve Nash, Amare Stoudamire, Boris Diaw, and Raja Bell. The strategic offensive game plan is catered to Jalen, who isn't known for his defensive ability. He can now look forward to being at the top of the league instead of the bottom.

Cavs and Lebron win home opener against Wizards

What a first game performance from second year star, Larry Hughes. With his help the Cavs edged the Wizards 97-94. The veteran guard scored 28 points (11-15 FGA-M), grabbed 9 rebounds while dishing out 5 assists. That proved to be the difference in the game. Let's not forget about Lebron James either. "Prime Time" as I will refer to him as dropped 26 points with 10 rebounds and 5 assists. It was a close game, until the final minute when Cleveland went ahead and made the crucial stop on the other end.

Luckily for the Cavs Gilbert Arenas had a rare off-game, shooting 2-12 from the field. I like what the Cavailers lineup is capable of, but they may need additional offense from Drew Gooden and Big Z on nights when James is pressured by stifling defense, which could mean triple-teaming at times. All and all it was a good opening game for Cleveland. As a team they shot 47% for the game, which is decent. They're scheduled to play the Spurs Friday night at San Antonio. This will be an early season challenge for them.

The Cav's bench will also be tested on the defensive end. Shutting down Tim Duncan is never a piece of cake. This year I think Donyell Marshall should rely less on three-pointers and play more another the low post. They'll need his big body around the paint for put-backs and to discourage drives to the basket. I think King James (Prime Time) is going to be a bit more prepared for the upcoming matchup on the road. I wouldn't be surprised if he scores 35 and collects another triple-double in his young career.