2006 wrap-up: sports moments that left their mark

2006 is almost over and what a year of events. I can't believed what happened. The St. Louis Cardinals swept the Tigers in the World Series. The baseball deals were huge. Outfielder Vernon Wells received a 7-year $136 million contract from the Blue Jays. The Cubs extended a near identical offer to acquire Alfonso Soriano. Top free agent pitcher, Barry Zito found a new home finally (just on the other side of the Bay) in San Francisco on a long-term deal worth more than $130 million. Now there are two Barrys in town. One is known for being a veteran, dynamic team leader and the only found a way to reach historic marks, pursue a homerun record only to lie to FEDs, force his personal trainer to serve time in jail by denying he ever stuck a syringe in his client's ass or used steroids.

In college basketball Bobby Knight approaches a career record, needing another win to pass Dean Smith to become the all-time wins leader. A loss to UNLV delayed the celebration so 2007 looks to be the special year for Knight. His relentless hounding of refs and pushing his players to the limit characterize his will to succeed and will make him a memorable coach. The NCAA champs, lead by star forward Joakim Noah look to make a repeat to the Sweet Sixteen if not the Final Four. George Mason rised to semi-stardom in 2006 by upsetting UNC in the Final Four.

Youth are today's generation of superstars in the NBA, lead by Carmelo, Wade, and Lebron. The Miami Heat captured their first NBA title as Dwayne Wade exploded with outstanding scoring performances against the Mavericks. Lebron guided the Cavs to the postseason in only his third season, setting a series of franchise records. Lebron is about to turn 22, the NBA hasn't seen nothing yet. At the tail end of the year, Allen Iverson received no love from Philly and was pulled from the lineup only to sit and wait. A wish came true as the Denver Nuggets grabbed him in a trade for Andre Miller. Now the top 2 scorers in the league are in the same lineup. Well, I guess the Sixers will become 2006's New York Knicks.

No one will forget the now infamous Madison Square Garden free-for-all between the Knicks and Nuggets. At least 10 players were ejected with 6 receiving suspensions. The incident served as a flashback to the barbaric incident at the Palace of Auburn Hills between the Pistons and Pacers a few years ago. Apparently, Pacer guard Stephen Jackson learned nothing from the brawl because he was reported to have fired gun shots outside a Indianapolis strip club earlier this year. To think the NBA held more focus on a new synthetic-fiber basketball for regulation play rather than players bringing weapons to games (If you're a fan it's best to watch out for any concealed pointy objects because it just may be a shank or brass knucks). With all the series of uncanny events, 2006 was still a good year in sports.

Kidd gets slapped with fine for criticizing refs

The NBA has tightened up their policies in some areas to the point where there is no breathing room. The Nets' Jason Kidd was fined $20,000 for calling the officials "three blind mice." Obviously, he was frustrated because it was a close game against the Pistons and he felt a couple calls didn't go his team's way. The Nets lost 92-91 at Detroit Tuesday night. You can't fault Kidd for voicing his opinion. I mean after all, it's freedom of expression (plus I'm sure the refs did miss several calls). The NBA never penalizes officials for their incompetence at times.

Sure they can't be accurate on every play, but some games refs are horrible, making everyone wonder if they really do need glasses. The older refs are loyal to the game, seem respectable, however should retire due to their poor vision and delayed reactions. Commissioner Stern needs to take this into account and not be so quick to hand out punishments to NBA players. Guys like Kidd only want to make sure it's a fair game and have every possible chance for their team to win.

Besides it's not like the criticism will ever stop. Players already complain frequently that they get hit with too many personal and flagrant fouls. These are the players who are slowing down progress, making games less enjoyable. It's not misconduct to voice a legitimate excuse that changed the outcome of a game. The NBA, whether they likes it or not must listen to their players. Otherwise more conflicts will arise.

Wade dazzles crowd on Christmas day

Dwayne Wade had a Merry, Merry Christmas enjoying a win over the Los Angeles Lakers. He scored 40 on hot shooting from the field. Without Shaq in the lineup the Heat needed the offensive punch from their star guard. No one could bring shame to Wade's game on the magnificent holiday. His performance was a sight to see like lighted decorations on houses. Leading Miami over the Lakers for most of the game, Wade shot 12-20 FG (15-16 FT), adding 11 assists, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals.

No one in the Lakers' starting lineup or bench scored more than 16 points. Kobe couldn't find his touch nor strategy to stop Wade. The 101-85 triumph was sealed in the final 3 minutes of play as Lakers defense tried to double-team Wade, therefore leaving Miami teammates wide open. When a guard like Jason Kapono can capitalize by sinking a couple three-pointers in the 4th quarter then you know the game is wrapped up. The Heat did have an advantage since both Lamar Odom and Chris Mihm were out with injuries. Shaq may of been sidelined, but that didn't prevent him from cheering his team on and whispering words of encouragement to his superstar teammate.

Everyone thought it was going to be a one-on-one battle between Wade and Bryant, but it turned out to be one-man show. Seeing how easily 'Flash' distributed the ball to teammates the Heat should feel comfort in knowing he is willing to do whatever it takes to help them win rather than be a ball hog. If he's hot of course he'll take more shots, but that won't interfere with his top priority. With the win the Heat have pulled within a game of .500 at 13-14. They trail Washington and Orlando in the Southeast division.

The performance from a key veteran has risen. My hat is off to Zo as his defensive prowess continues to one of the team's strenghts. Mourning has compiled consistent numbers in Shaq's absence, although guys like Jason Williams and Antoine Walker must step it up a notch and give the Heat another reliable, consistent scorer. I expect Wade to finish the season as one of the top 3 scorers in the league.

Arenas drops it like it's hot in Wizards overtime thriller

The Phoenix Suns didn't know what hit them when Gilbert Arenas and the Washington Wizards rolled into town. The star shooting guard's 54-point explosion with the help of his Wizards teammates snapped the Sun's 15-game win streak. Caron Butler scored 34 points in the win as well. After being snowed in at Denver, the Suns didn't get much practice in the next day. The way they played though it didn't seem to matter. Rim rocking alley-oop slams erupted in the 4th quarter Friday night. Amare Stoudemire came close to tipping in the winning basket as the game clock expired. He finished with 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Coach D'Antonio gave Arenas all the motivation he needed. By not selecting him to be part of Team USA a few years ago it pushed Areans to elevate his game. Areans has already scored 60 points this season in another overtime victory against the Lakers. He wanted to prove a point and it came across loud and clear. The Wizards improve to 14-12, which I have to say is kind of below expectation yet it's still early in the season. The main two teams in the East they have to be most focused on are Miami and Orlando. Even with Shaq out the Heat have a potent lineup with good depth off the bench.

With Areans leading the charge with an All-Star cast including Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler the Wizards have plenty of octane in the tank. Brendan Haywood has also been playing inspiring basketball averaging around a double-double per game. Rotating center, Etan Thomas and him still must keep their tempers in check and co-exist. Washington has 3 days off for the Christmas break and will return home to face the Grizzles on Dec. 26. They can't take this team lightly and should be ready for a battle. Gilbert can rely on his teammates to give him a pick me up if he has an off-night.

Chicago native found guilty of stealing baseball players' identities

A Chicago man almost got away with what would've been one of the biggest crimes in baseball history. Some shady jerk named David Dright had his home searched by Lake County, Illinois investigators after an anonymous player notified authorities about Dright stealing his personal information. There they found social security numbers, dates of birth, infant death records, and canceled paychecks. Information the man stole was also connected to current Major Leaguers, Moises Alou and Jim Thome. After confiscating all the material Dright had in his possession police discovered he had stolen close to 90 baseball players' identities. Wow, what a scumbag!

I can't believe he was getting away with so many cases of identity theft. This all developed after Dright shifted through a trash bin outside of SFX Baseball Inc., a sports agency representing Major league and minor leaguers in Northbrook, Illinois. It's evident this Dright character was a sneaky SOB with time on his hands. What's even more astounding is that the agency didn't shred this information (Hey idiots! It's private, confidential information you're just tossing away in a public trash bin).

Now Dright has a long time to think about how stupid he is for actually believing he could continue to pull this slick shit off. Bond is set at $250,000 as he remains at Lake County jail. I guess with incompetent practices from sports agencies and pesky, low-life eavesdroppers around the corner no professional athlete's name is safe. You'd think agents would do their best to protect their clients' personal documents.

This guy could really piss off former Major League stars if any material surfaces he stole proving they used steroids. Then this man may be getting a lot of unexpected, bulked-up visitors at the jail. Congress could finally have the dirt they needed on players like Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa. Plus these two still have a crap load of money left. God only knows what will turn up next.

Suspensions handed out for MSG melee

Again the NBA can't have get through an entire season without a fight breaking out. The Knicks and Nuggets now have to suffer the consequences after players let their anger get the best of them. Carmelo Anthony, which I would have never expected to react the way he did will serve a 15-game suspension whereas Nate Robinson, Marty Collins, and J.R. Smith get slapped with 10 games. Also, both teams were fined $500,000. I don't understand why the NBA thinks it get prevent further bad behavior by posing such a small fine.

NBA players as everyone knows are making millions a year so why not at least take away bonuses or extra incentives they normally receive when a chaotic event erupts. To be fair, on the contrary teammates who intervene to break up the fighting and don't inflict any physical harm shouldn't be punished. They should be commended for doing the right thing. I did see Knicks forward David Lee coming over and trying to pull back Jared Jeffries. The same goes for the Nuggets' Eduardo Najera, who was only trying to help defuse the situation. Several others were ejected for coming off the bench, which made no sense since they didn't seem to throw any punches or kicks.

There are much work left to be done to clean up the NBA. Superstar players like Anthony are hurting their image and reputation. It's one thing to defend yourself, but it's another to blatantly strike a person because you're angry. Also, this incident could've been avoided if the Knicks' Marty Collins would've accepted the loss and not made such a stupid decision to wrap up J.R. Smith on the fast break. Everyone knows New York is frustrated and are in a funk, but that doesn't mean it's okay for players to act uncivilized and fail to contain their emotions. Plus Isiah Thomas needs to keep his mouth shut if he can't be of a positive solution instead of part of the problem. The NBA must tighten up their policies and start taking drastic measures to drive a strong message home to players.

Bobby Knight fast approaching historic record

One great college basketball coach is on the verge of passing another. Bobby Knight is 3 wins away from moving ahead former Tarheels coach Dean Smith for the all-time record. Knight picked up his 877th career win against Centenary last Saturday. The already legendary coach has lead Texas Tech to a 8-3 start. They face Arkansas (8-1) today at Bud Walton Arena. Knight will join a select group in the record books which not only include Dean Smith, but also Kentucky's Adolf Rupp and John Wooden. The Red Raiders plan on returning to the Sweet Sixteen again this season.

The hot temper and flair for the dramatic are the characteristics fans and players most familiarize with Bobby Knight. He coached the Indiana Hoosiers for 29 seasons before being fired in 2000 for violating school's 'zero tolerance policy'. Even though he's physically demanding and voliate at times on the court, I must admit he's a great motivator. This is the main reason why he has led Texas Tech to 20-win seasons in his first 4 years there. In his career, Knight has only experienced two losing seasons. The first came in 1970-71 with his Army club, who went 11-13 and last season Texas Tech finished with a 15-17 record.

This year is sure to be different as Knight eyes his 890th win to seal his name as the all-time leader in the record books. I know there will plenty of games where Knight get infuriated with his players and the refs. College basketball could witness another repeat of the chair-throwing incident back in 1985. This time he might toss a fan or time clock at the score's table. That would be memorable...a classic moment to etch in sports history.

Cavs and Lebron continue to shine at home

Luckily for the Cleveland Cavailers last night Adam Morrison or Raymond Felton didn't get hot. The 104-101 victory was insured by the hustle and contribution off the bench from Anderson Varejao. He finished with 16 points (4-10 FG) and 10 rebounds. With the effort the Cavs improved to 10-2 at home. Still they've got to deliver more as a team against non-contenders like Charlotte. Lebron didn't have to be overpowering on offense, allowing the rest of the lineup to take the scoring load off his shoulders. He didn't shoot even 40% from the field, though had 7 assists.

Cleveland fans know Lebron will have off-nights. They'd feel more confident if Big Z and Larry Hughes start boosting their scoring average per game as the bench fill quality minutes, making big defensive stops late in the game. The Cavs have to cut down on allowing the opposition too many offensive rebounds. The Bobcats snatched 14 boards Wednesday night. Cleveland can't survive against teams like the Spurs, Rockets, and Jazz by failing to shut down the inside game.

I know Cleveland is still in good position in the Central division despite only holding a 13-8 record, but they should seriously consider working out a deal for Allen Iverson. It's true they don't have the right talent to trade now. Other than Larry Hughes and Big Z there isn't anyone else feasible enough to be traded. Lebron and Gooden will stay put after signing big contracts in the off-season.

I feel the Cavs have yet to find a guard that truly compliments 'King James'. Eric Snow could serve a better purpose off the bench, bringing his veteran knowledge and leadership with the younger second unit. We'll see if the franchise will pull some strings later in the season. They'll have to grow closer as a team and suffice until then. No doubt, Lebron will erupt with magnificent all-around performances, but he can't do it all every game.

The league has spoken: the NBA brings back leather ball

For months much complaining has gone on about the NBA's new microfiber composite ball. Players haven't got used to the new ball, stating that it bounces off the rim different, makes dribbling more of a challenge, and cuts their hands. Sure it sounds like they're whining over spilled milk, although what was wrong with the original regulation ball in the first place? I realize Commissioner David Stern wanted to convey a more conservative, environmentally conscious image. Somehow an animal activist group such as PETA must have played a role in the Commissioner's decision. Still leather comes from animals it's only natural that they'd want to get involved.

The original basketball is set to return January 1. I don't know why the NBA is waiting until the New Year. Superstar players normally would be scoring 10-15 points more per game with the leather ball. It has a good grip and that's what they've been used to for so long. Commissioner Stern's decision to do a switch around only hurt team and player statistics. Fans come to games to see high scoring and when teams fail to score over 85 points it's a true disappointment. They don't feel they receive their money's worth.

One facet NBA players don't have to worry about is shooting on goals with double rims. Those are the worst because if you have a high arching shot you're screwed. Plus it's hard to know what direction the ball will bounce off the rim, making rebounding physically straining. Top defensive players in the league like Duncan, Ben Wallace, and Kevin Garnett experience a drop in numbers. It's good the NBA will return to it's normal style basketball.

Everyone will be happy when the ball doesn't get stuck on the side of the rim and fast breaks aren't ruin due to the lack of grip. After the lst of the year I know Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, and Kobe Bryant will have huge scoring performances. They'll be on fire with nothing to effect their rhythm, exploding with some triple-threat boo-yaas!

Iverson wants out of Philly

So the 76ers and Allen Iverson have finally come to an agreement on one thing: it's time for him to depart. Neither are happy about the current situation. I'm surprised AI wasn't traded a few years ago. Everyone knows what he's trying to accomplish and that's win a championship. Let's face it he isn't getting any younger. Besides, he's been carrying the franchise for nearly a decade, being the only superstar player on the team. For a guard in the league, who averages over 30 points almost every season he deserves better.

I can't say I blame Iverson for demanding a trade. Last season Philadelphia failed to make the playoffs and their chances of clinching a final spot in the East this year are slim. The franchise does have other young, budding star in Andre Iguodala. They need to sign other veterans and young rising talent to bring new life to the team. Obviously, the 76ers have their mind made up as they ordered Iverson to sit out the last 2 games. Management has even gone as far as banning him from the building. Wow, they must really be bitter.

The Sixers are 5-13, tied with the Celtics for last place in the division. I don't see Philly getting any better for the rest of the season without Iverson. The only other remaining veterans are Kevin Ollie and Chris Webber. Philly will have to develop more around their young up-and-coming players, Steven Hunter and Kyle Korver. Well, it's up in the air as to where Allen Iverson will find a new home. Trade rumors are hinting that the T-wolves are interested and Kevin Garnett is encouraging management to grab him. Personally, I'd like to see 'the Answer' in a Cavs' uniform alongside Lebron James. Then again that's just wishful thinking on my part.

Honoring Larry Bird on his birthday

Every once and a while I like to give a tribute to historic sports legends. This Celtic star is an icon in basketball and is a household name among Bostonians (I guess that's what you'd called them). Larry Bird, an NBA Great turns 50 today so happy birthday! He's already a member of the NBA's Hall of Fame joining a class including Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Jerry West, and Oscar Robertson. Bird lead the Celtics to 3 NBA championships and was awarded the MVP 3 consecutive years.

It seemed inevitable that Bird would later move on to be a part owner of the Indiana Pacers after his retirement. After all he grew up in French Lick, Indiana where he played college ball. At Indiana State, the 6'9 standout played 2 years and averaged over 30 ppg after sitting out a year as a transfer student. People thought there was friction between Bobby Knight and him, but Bird denies such a claim. He was named an All-American his junior year. Even in high school he was a natural talent. He played for Springs Valley High School where he averaged 30 ppg and 21 rebounds. That is astounding for a teenager who's still developing skills.

Despite having a year of eligibility left in college, Bird was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1978. Legendary coach, Red Auerbach knew he was the real deal and took him under his wing. Superstar players evolve every year in the NBA, but none possess the same essence and great overall ability Bird did. I remember him most for his sweet rainbows and sharp shooting. Unlike many stars today, Bird only signed a contract for $3.5 million his rookie year and never made close to $10 million a year in his career. It shows everyone how times have changed. Larry Legend, one of the best of all-time will live forever in basketball history.

The disappearance of former NBA stars

To me it seems like 5 years since Latrell Sprewell suited up for a basketball game or even attempted to choke out a former coach. The once All-Star shooting guard last played for the Minnesota Timberwolves. Where is he now? I haven't the foggiest clue (probably running his own drug distribution network, lol). Others have yet to be seen or heard from like Keith Van Horn, Nick Van Exel, Penny Hardaway, Vin Baker, and Doug Christie. They wanted a break from their professional basketball careers.

Former New York Knick, Antonio Davis is now a busy family man who stays at home, taking care of his children. This is the same player, who got caught up in controversial situation about a year ago when he thought a fan was harassing his wife during a game. Luckily the incident didn't turn out to be ugly. Davis could've started a fight and threw a punch, but he didn't. It's good to see some NBA players have self-control and don't go berserk in heated, tense moments (like Stephen Jackson, Ron Artest, and Rasheed Wallace). Davis claims he doesn't miss the game that much. What a liar he turned out to be, of course he does. He's still in his early 30's and there is time for him to win a championship.

I kind of miss seeing many of the veterans from the Jordan era. That's why I think the guys mentioned above are trying to call it quits to soon. I have to admit though they're no where as good as they used to be, but that's typical. What happened to Penny Hardaway? He's such to be such a phenomenal player when he played with Orlando in the early stages of his career. Once he left things were never the same. He got to be a 'lost' talent that most everyone forgot about or showed little interest in at all.

The same goes for Van Exel and Vin Baker who played with such confidence. Their best years are gone so they feel there is no reason to continue playing. I think it comes down to making excuses and being too lazy to stay in shape. Then again they may have personal issues to attend to which are most important at the time being.

Knicks trying earnestly not to stink up the league again

Oh how the New York Knicks are making strides in a new season. Sure they'll finish towards the bottom of the Eastern conference, but they refuse to have the worst record (we'll wait and see). Isiah Thomas has took over, giving this franchise some inspiration to play at a higher level (above high school ball). Larry Brown's first and only season as head coach just didn't work out well. I mean he previously coached the Pistons to an NBA title so why did New York expect him to do the same for them? He was working with young, undiscliplined talent that didn't have the right mix of chemistry. Stephon Marbury and Steve Francis are the only real veterans and they can't resurrect the franchise, especially when they're injured.

I know what most basketball fans are thinking, the Knicks still suck because they're off to a 6-12 start and only have a slight advantage of the Celtics for 4th place in the Atlantic division. This team has rising talent which is often overlooked. That's right I'm talking about second-year guys, Nate Robinson and Channing Frye (injured). Also proven scorer, Quentin Richardson is beginning to step up his game averaging 14 points. There is still plenty of room for growth and at least, for the most part, they have a more positive environment.

One of the best moves they made was getting rid of Jalen Rose, who did too much trash talking and jawing at the refs. His attitude was a bad influence on the younger players in my opinion. Let's face it sooner or later he was going to be arrested for drug possession, assault and battery, or even both (One Knicks' player always does). Playing in Madison Square Garden, fans kind of expect players to be hard-nosed and fearless. They don't mind seeing a flagrant foul or two (elbow to the head, low blow, or sucker punch to the face), if anything it excites them and sends them into a uproar. That's New York Knicks basketball in a nutshell.

Tonight the Raptors are in the Garden and unbelievably will pose a threat. With off-seasons additions, T.J Ford and Fred Jones in the lineup, the Knicks actually have to play some defense, which means playing tight inside and outside for them to have a good shot of winning. Richardson and Curry will have to be the go-to-guys on offense. Investing more playing time in Nate Robinson would also be a smart decision by Isiah Thomas. New York averages around 98 ppg and should avoid trading baskets tonight because garnering a victory by outscoring Toronto in a shootout is very unlikely.