Chronic fatigue is overweight athletes' own worst enemy

Today's athletes have it made from a financial standpoint, reaping grand benefits from multi-million dollar contracts and bonuses. Despite these guarantees that doesn't mean they always perform to the highest level. Overweight athletes besides football players find themselves in an uphill battle with their health. There isn't enough diet and exercise if any, which leads to chronic fatigue among many other problems. Being winded often is the first sign of bad conditioning and can result in reduced playing time.

A 300-plus pound basketball player won't survive in the NBA if he has no endurance. Sure a big center or forward can be slow as hell, but if they're always 'cherry picking' and bent over by the sidelines breathing heavy then it's time for their fat ass to hit the gym. Either that or they'll be forced to retire. Fans know how out of shape athletes are when they see security personnel drive them back to the locker room on driving carts and not because of an injury. Sometimes they'll even be seen chowing down on a cheeseburger on the way out. I would think players had more dignity than that.

Baseball is little different than other sports. Most of the time you don't have to be in shape (ex. John Kruk, Cecil Fielder) and you stand still for long periods of a game. However, when a chunky batter comes to the plate and swings almost out of his shoes, falls down, and needs help getting up then it's evident they have a major weight problem. The same goes for an outfielder who's too damn lazy to go after a shallow fly ball. Instead of making the effort they let it drop a good 10 feet in front of them. Forget about first basemen playing close to an umpire's position. Sooner or later the two will collide and the umpire will have to be lifted off on a stretcher.

The worst thing oversized players can do is sit for long periods on a bench then order a couple hot dogs with chili cheese fries plus a soft drink and start pigging out. Then when do enter the game they get a cramp or heart burn and fall out on the ground. That's when they hit a real low point in their career, embarrassing themselves and bringing shame to the sport and their family. These are the same players who are found at the end of the bench, laying down with someone squeezing a water bottle at their mouth like a hose.

NBA All-Star selections announced

I can't believe the season is nearing the half-way point, fast approaching the All-Star game with great trepidation. There was no doubt in my mind that Gilbert Arenas would be starting. He's the second leading scorer in the league at 29.7 points per game. It's going to be a young lineup for the East which includes Dwayne Wade, Lebron James, Chris Bosh, and Shaq. The West is made up of a veteran squad: Kobe Byrant, Tracy McGrady, Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan, and Yao Ming (currently injured). Several star names got snubbed from the reserve list. It happens every year so it's not a real surprise.

As far as stats go, Shaq didn't actually earn a spot as a starter. I think Dwight Howard should have got the nod since he's being having a sensational first half of the season. If the Magic don't make the playoffs it won't be his fault. Out of everyone, Lebron James received the most votes from fans with 2.5 million. The All-Star game and festivities will be held in Las Vegas. There is sure to be so outrageous betting go on then. People will being going home flat broke after the game or before if they hit the casinos early. I'm pulling for the East because the Lebron is my favorite player and he and Wade are leading the youthful charge of explosive talent. All-Star weekend is no doubt going to be slamming!

Tarheels stomp Wake Forest, freshmen flourish again

The fun is only beginning for the North Carolina Tarheels. Their quest for an ACC title is in sight yet they have a ways to go. Last night, the freshman stole the spotlight again helping the Heels in route to a 88-60 pulverization of Wake Forest. Obviously, this isn't the same Wake Forest team a few years back that played a strong game from the inside and outside. Wayne Ellington, who had been in a shooting slump lately had a terrific game, scoring 18 points as the top scorer. Ty Lawson has also performed well as a back-up point guard in place of Bobby Frasor. He finished with 15 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals.

UNC lead for most of the game, with their largest margin at 31 points. As a team they shot 57% in the second half to Wake Forest's 32%. That the main reason why Wake Forest got blown out by 28 points on their home court. Brendan Wright is a wrecking machine inside on the offensive end. He continues to get better and makes his presence felt on the low post. When UNC get locked in no one can stop them. They're showing why their ranked no. 4 in the country.

The pressure in the backcourt was applied strong by the Tarheels against the Demon Deacons and lead to easy baskets on the other end. The defense is starting to really take shape, resembling the traditional UNC style of old. Right now UNC and Virginia Tech are tied for second place in the ACC. Soon that will change after the matchup with Arizona Saturday. Coach Williams will no doubt have his troops prepared with an articulate, upbeat strategy. Keep the win streak alive, GO TARHEELS!

ACC action: Hokies try to improve national rank against Miami

Coming off a close overtime game, winning 67-64 against Maryland Saturday the Hokies are pumped. They're gearing up for their next ACC competitor tonight on the road. They've been playing hot up-tempo basketball as of late. The streaky seniors are leading the way. Guard, Zabian Dowdell scored a game-high 19 points Saturday while Gordon added 16. Virginia Tech remains unbeaten this year on their home court. The energy and support from the fans there sure give them an edge and motivate them to elevate their game. Simply put they're a totally different team at home.

Knocking off the two biggest teams in the conference (UNC, Duke) served as a confidence booster. VA Tech is 14-5 overall and 4-1 in the ACC. Coach Seth Greenberg has his team playing his style of basketball, hovering defense, forcing turnovers, and scoring easy baskets off transition. The success so far can also be contributed to Jamon Gordon, Coleman Collins, and Deron Washington, who is an impressive leaper (when he jumped over Greg Paulus at Cameron Indoor Stadium for a layup I knew he had serious "ups"). The Hokies aren't going to back down from anyone, they play with a lot of heart and intensity.

They have a decent bench at best and an important factor for them until March will be staminia and strength . Forget about speed, that won't be a problem. They're excellent at pushing the ball up the court when under control and can match basically any conference rival on 3-point shooting. A.D. Vassallo shoots 43% beyond the arc and is averaging around 11 points a game. Their guards are the main strengths because they account for most of the points and force turnovers off steals and deflections. When Gordon and Dowdell get in a zone it's tough to defend them.

Miami will have their hands full when the Hokies come to down for the 9:00 p.m. contest tonight. Getting out to an early lead and putting pressure on the ball to spoil Miami's offensive strategy should give VA Tech breathing room coming into halftime. They don't want rush their offense, but play off turnovers on the defensive end. If they play their cards right there will be no chance at another overtime game and can gain their 5th victory in the ACC. Although, if both teams get hot it will be an back-and-front battle.

Clemson looks impressive, tattoos BC 74-54

The Clemson Tigers have took the ACC by storm. They have leaped to a 18-2 record overall after beating Boston College earlier today. Orange spots covered Littlejohn Coliseum with student alumni and fans in an uproar. A good game was on hand so they had every reason to be ecstatic. Coach Purnell laid into his team after a loss to UNC and stirred a fire in his players' eyes again to play hard-nosed basketball. Boston College tried to stay with them in the first half, but couldn't match their energy and quickness.

Turnovers in the second half allowed Clemson to break it wide open and extend a big lead. Junior guard, Cliff Hammond was the scoring leader with 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting. The men in orange fought for loose balls and make quick advances on fast breaks and just worn down Boston College. They made 21 turnovers in the game despite shooting 50% from the field. Another key factor in the win was Clemson's hot shooting from beyond the arc, hitting 9-of-18. They only allowed their opponent to gain a 6-point advantage in the first half. After that the speedy offense took over.

I expect being ranked 16th in the nation won't last for long if the Tigers continue to play so well. The ACC this season is open for any team to claim. UNC, Duke, and Va Tech serve as the stiffest competition at the moment. Everyone better take the Tigers more seriously though because they can beat any team on any night. With the victory Clemson moves to 4-2 in the ACC. Their upcoming games are against Duke (15-3) in Cameron on Thursday and Virginia (10-6) at home on 1/28. Pulling an upset off could make things even more interesting in the ACC.

Another big trade swings in the NBA

An eight-player trade was worked out between the Pacers and Warriors. Stephen Jackson, Saranus I., and Al Harrington were sent to Golden State in exchange for forwards, Mike Dunleavy, Troy Murphy, and Ike Diogu. This wasn't that good of a trade for the Warriors. Obviously, Baron Davis is the point man, running the offense and has things under control. I do think Harrington will help them overcome scoring droughts and give them another clutch performer in the lineup.

It's evident the Indiana organization is up in arms with the fiascos their players have caused in the past 3 or 4 years so they were more than glad to part ways with Stephen Jackson. Both teams involved in this recent deal at this point are towards the bottom of their division and have a slim chance at making the playoffs. They must have a huge second half of the season to gain a final seed in the East and West. I know B.D. needed help by having another scorer in the lineup. Since he's a great passer Al should fit well into the team's offensive strategy. Who knows what will happen with the other players in this trade....they may be able to make the most out of their new opportunity and could do them good to have a change of scenery.

Detroit makes room in Auburn Hills for Webber

I thought Chris Webber was too old and broken down to be worth much to any NBA team on the market. The Detroit Pistons think otherwise as they've brought out the remaining year and a half of his contract. He was set to receive $22 million next year. Webber's experience caters to veteran saturated team. He finally returns home where I'm sure he'll be welcomed with open arms. His days at Michigan U. are not forgotten. Today at his age, Webber is less of an offensive force and hasn't ever been known for serving as a defensive stopper. Philly didn't pull up a fight to keep him, putting him on waivers, and parted ways with him in exchange for zilch.

The Pistons already have a good lineup with Billups, Wallace, and Hamilton. Adding another quality veteran into the mix will give them an extra push probably in the second half of the season. What this could mean is less minutes for center, Nazr Mohammed. He would then desire a trade. Right now the Pistons are looking at trading him for T-wolves' guard, Marko Jaric. Detroit still has strong bench with big men, Antonio McDyess and Dale Davis.

I think the Eastern conference contender is in good position for another playoff run. They're in second place in the Central behind the Cavs at 21-15. They aren't as strong a defensive team now after Ben Wallace left. Webber is expected to play his first game as a Piston Wednesday night. If all goes well, Billups who's be out with a ankle injury will be in the starting lineup as well against Utah.

Bonds tries to blame teammate for amphetamines

Barry Bonds keeps digging a deeper and deeper hole for himself. He getting desperate, resorting to low tactics to cover his own ass. This week the Giants big-headed slugger made remarks about a teammate giving him a health supplement from his locker. Once infielder Mark Sweeney got thrown into the conservation the media went haywire with the story. What grief this guy had to deal with because Bonds falsely ratted on him. This was a real dumb move by the veteran star outfielder. Now is due to have 6 drug tests this year.

Later, Bonds publicly apologized to Sweeney and his family saying his teammate had nothing to do with the incident. That lying, sneaky a**hole! Everyone knows the pressure is on him and what he intended to do. He's already tested positive for amphetamines. Eventually he's going to get busted for steroids so he might as well come clean before it blows up in his face. Most fans have lost respect for Bonds and soon his whole team will follow suit. Eventually it's get going get real uncomfortable in the clubhouse and Bonds will create a tense-filled environment.

This will happen when he spits out of his mouth that another teammate coaxed him into the trainer's room to show him a new type of protein and energy drink. Then all of a sudden the room went dark and Bonds gets struck on the butt with a sharp instrument before going numb and falling unconscious. That's all he'll remember. I can't believe the B.S. this guy continues to come up with, having no regard for his teammates and the Giants organization. MLB just needs to nail him with solid evidence and end this "Dog and Pony" show. Baseball can move on, creating some credibility to the '07 season.

Dwayne Wade's fourth quarter spurt rallies Heat over Sonics

No one can say D-Wade isn't doing anything possible to keep the Heat respectable in the East while Shaq is out with injury. Last night against the Sonics, he took control in the final 8 minutes by scoring 14 of his 29 points to lead Miami to a 107-104 win. He also dissed out 13 assists. Guards, Jason Williams and Gary Payton both shot over 50% from the field and scored 14 a piece. However, if it wasn't for Wade's high flying offensive attack the Heat would have been dealt another loss. At 15-19 they can't afford to fall behind too far in the East. They're in no position to boast bragging rights or get ahead in the Eastern conference.

The Heat survived good scoring performances from Ray Allen (29 points) and Chris Wilcox (28 points). Thanks to the sufficient interior Miami defense they were able to hang up. Zo grabbed 7 rebounds and blocked 3 shots. The combo of Mourning and Haslem has worked out okay to fill the void of their Superstar big man. Miami's next three games will be on the road against Golden State, Utah, and the Lakers. Getting through the rest of the month on a winning streak could help the Heat gain momentum drawing near the All-Star break.

Gwynn, Ripken enshrined in Hall of Fame

The career achievements and notable qualities of Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. didn't go unnoticed. They were rewarded this week for their dubious baseball marks by being elected to the Hall of Fame. They topped off the list of the Class of '07, which included such names as Jim Rice, Andre Dawson, Lee Smith, Don Mattingly, Dale Murphy, and Willie McGee. It was all a matter of time before two more great MLB hitters entered the Hall.

Gwynn is a career .300 hitter with more than 3,000 career hits and Ripken, the long-time Oriole hit over 270 homeruns while driving in 2,000 plus RBIs. These two baseball Greats are now immortalized in Cooperstown. Their jerseys adorn their likeness for all to see on display. Toward the end of their careers their teams finish with sub-par records, unable to shake off the competition and clinch of a playoff spot. They were team leaders though and their names will forever be etched in the Halls of Cooperstown.

Low scoring game for Lebron, though Cavs prevail

The Cleveland Cavailers improved to 21-12 after Saturday's night victory over New Jersey, 96-91. Finally Lebron's teammates picked up the slack as he had an off-night. Larry Hughes and Drew Gooden both scored 21 points each. Ilgauskas added 16 of his own. I'd like to see more of this from the Cavs' lineup. They have a power inside game if they'll come to it more often, refusing to take rushed outside shots. They shot 44% from the field, but a mere 65% on free throws (17-26).

They were lucky they didn't make more than 11 turnovers against the Nets. Otherwise it could've come back to bite them. I think if their big men get more touches in the paint and are consistent then so much pressure won't fall on Lebron to score in crucial moments late in games. So far King James is averaging 26 ppg and 6 assists. His willing to get his teammates involved will pay dividends down the stretch. Donyell Marshall and Anderson Varejo have played well off the bench. After the All-Star break Cleveland will see if Hughes more a liability than an asset. Staying healthy is the main thing while Lebron will take care of the rest.

Lebron demonstrates good court vision off a double-team

Randy Johnson returns to Arizona in Yankees' trade

The New York Yankees were sure anxious to trade the 'Big Unit'. He wasn't much a factor in last season's quest for yet another World title. The collapse in the playoffs against Detroit wasn't only due to the veteran southpaw's pitching. New York expected to gain more wins and innings out of Johnson, but it didn't happen because let's face it, he's 43 and worn down from throwing all those thunderous fastballs and hard sliders. The Yankees received pitcher, Luis Viscaino and three future minor leaguers.

I think Arizona will be glad to have Johnson, where is most likely will finish his career. They reclaim a veteran starter pitcher who owns 280 career wins and 4544 strikeouts. Few star pitchers in the game today can match those numbers or even come close. The Diamondbacks won't get 15-20 wins in the 2007 season, but they'll have a guy with playoff experience, leadership, and baseball smarts. He can teach the younger players, hopefully rubbing some good luck off on them.

All the grumbling and bickering behind closed doors is over now. Steinbreiner and Torre should be more concerned about what they're $100 million men, Jeter and Rodriguez will produce in the new season. The franchise will have even stiffer competition from their rivals in the East as they too appear to be creating their own Evil Empire. There will always be heated tension between the two clubs and now Randy can have a sense of relief since he's now out of the picture.

Iverson tastes defeat against former team

Without Carmelo Anthony in the lineup Tuesday night, the Nuggets main, premier scoring option was Allen Iverson. It was the first time the veteran superstar point guard had faced his former team since being traded. The 108-97 loss to the Sixers was probably an eye-opening experience for 'the Answer.' His 30-point output wasn't enough to seal a victory. The rest of the lineup and bench shot under 37% in the game. Marcus Camby managed to snag 16 rebounds, though only scored 8 points. Philly, I think had a lucky night because the only player on the team who had a good night was Kyle Korver (26 points, 4 assists).

Iverson got off to a slow start, unable to connect on his first couple of shot attempts and ended up making 7 turnovers. To top it off he also got ejected with his second technical foul late in the 4th quarter. Oh, there was some trash talking going on before and after the game. AI felt one of the refs wanted to make things personal, causing him to look bad against his former mates by calling unnecessary fouls on him. The outcome was disappointing for Denver, but when the two teams meet again with Carmelo suited up the Sixers won't have be given a free pass.

Iverson still leads the league in scoring and can keep Denver afloat until Melo returns. 16-13 is a decent record for them at the moment, but it's going to take stronger efforts from their bench if they are to claim a top seed in the West. When they get rolling on offense they are a very tough team to beat. Iverson and Melo will have to keep their emotions under control and lead by example. Denver's next scheduled game is against the Lakers in Los Angeles. They'll have their hands full with Kobe Byrant and company.

Tarheels celebrate early

UNC looks sharp, crushes Dayton for 9th straight win

The Dayton Flyers didn't stand a chance Sunday afternoon in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Their New Year's celebration was disrupted after a 81-51 loss from the Tarheels. Both teams however, had too many turnovers from sloppy play. They each had 21 turnovers. Dayton went ice cold from the field in the second half, allowing UNC's prized freshmen to capitalize with fast breaks and easy points in the paint. Brandan Wright had another solid game, scoring 16 points (8-9 FG) with 6 rebounds. Tyler Hansbrough chipped with 17 points.

With the absence of sophomore point guard, Bobby Frasor the Heels' second unit has performed well so far. Wayne Ellington and Danny Green are receiving more playing time and have made good contributions. Ellington is shooting 46% from beyond the arc. Sunday the young Carolina unit outscored their opponent 34-18 in the first half. With the win, UNC, who is rated no. 2 in the country climbs to 12-1 moving into 2007. They had yet to face their ACC rivals. I think they'll encounter tougher competition in their own conference this season. Boston College, UVA, VT, and Miami have all improved.

For a while UNC had centered their offensive attack around Tyler Hansbrough. That has changed with Wright and Ellington giving the team a lift when penciled in the starting lineup and coming off the bench. What I find impressive is that Brandan is shooting 67% from the field, wow...that's amazing! With more shot attempts he could become a stronger force in the paint. The Tarheels will need all the extra scoring they can get over the next couple of weeks when they face Wake Forest, Clemson, Arizona, and Florida State. Right now they're in control only UNC has to be cautious of injuries to their guards. They could ill-afford to have a smaller, less potent backcourt.