A-Rod going to DL, Clemens' controversy too much drama for Yankees

Leave to the Yankees to generate more drama and turmoil for baseball. Living up to their legacy every season is a daunting challenge. Finally as a franchise they know what's it like to struggle and deal with injuries and outside distractions. I actually think it's a shame A- Rod went on 15-day DL with strained right quadriceps. The star shortstop is off to another great start. The Yankees are contending with the controversies surrounding Roger Clemens. I don't think the 14-14 record is the biggest concern yet George Steinbreiner has got to worry about his star power, where is it coming from now?

I think the Yankees are like a extended dysfunctional family. There is always complaining, arguing, and fighting (sometimes over money). I can see why the fan act the way they do, one actually falling from the upper deck trying to catch a foul ball. Sometimes a franchise needs a fresh approach when things get out of control. For New York they'll find a way to win when the 'new players' arrive mid-season and the revenue and contracts are shelled out like it's gasoline from an oil company. Not to worry Yankee fans, A-Rod will be back to don the uni and popular universal logo while walloping homeruns and having to be cope with another team slump.

Early season pitching letdowns

The price of a ball player these days can either do wonders for a team or wreak havoc. Owners, have seen in the first month have star attractions have not panned out. Shelling out the big bucks for players is always a risk. Injuries occur when least expected and teams crumple. Disappointing starts from Barry Zito has freted Giants' management, wondering why they signed him to an outrageous contract in exchange for a pitiful 0-6 record in April. The two Barry have sucked up too much of the payroll in San Francisco. The organization should've said no deal to one of them.

Atlanta isn't too pleased with Mike Hampton. His dismal pitching performances have left pretty to be desired as John Smoltz and Tim Hudson can't be expected to be work horses all the time in the rotation. Personally, I've never cared for Hampton. He's was way too overated when he played on the Mets and Astros. Sure a tough curveball to hit, but a waste of money when he loses his control and can't keep his team close in games. The same unfortunate starts have happened with the Tigers' Justin Verlander and the Cubs' Ted Lilly. Both have experienced bad luck in April and have yet to get it going. It's unfortunate they're 1-4 and their strikeouts are down. At least their salaries aren't over the top and will still have team value when their struggles on the mound end.

Hornets shoot for 3-0 lead tonight against Mavericks

The playoff matchups in the West are shaping up to be highly contested series. The Hornets though look to be in the best position as they take a 2-0 advantage into tonight's game on the road in Dallas. With Paul and the Hornets shooting lights out in Game 1 and 2 the Mavericks have the pressure riding on them. Setting those franchise records has to make New Orleans feel good, they're beaming with confidence and pride now. Chris Paul's red hot play has ignited the Hornets. His back-to-back 30-point plus games with 17 assists in Game 2 blew open the big leads in route to victories.

I'll have to admit the Mavericks are a better team at home, playing in a comfort zone with support from the home crowd. Yet when they can't counter speed and streaky shooting they come unraveled. Dirk's performance or involvement in Game 3 will have a big effect on the outcome. Josh Howard and Jason Kidd don't normally rack up high scoring numbers as the bench will be relied upon to pick up the scoring load. If the Hornets shoot over 60% in a half and duplicate another franchise records-breaking performance I don't know how the Mavs will keep up or stay in the game.

All those who claimed New Orleans didn't stand a chance in the first round may witness more history in the making in the best-of-7 Western conference playoff series. Since the Hornets haven't won at Dallas in 10 years pulling off another big win to go ahead 3-0 would be huge. I expect good games from Tyson Chandler, David West, and Jannero Pargo. The trio combined for 47 points in the 127-109 win at New Orleans. The starting lineup could easily score in double-digits again and run the Mavericks until they're out of gas. Dallas may need an offensive explosion of their own to take the sting out of this heated series.

Frank Thomas sac flies, commitment not good enough for Blue Jays

Toronto doesn't know apparently when they have a good thing going for them. Kicking Frank Thomas to the curve because he didn't want to ride the bench for a couple games is one of the most asinine things I've ever heard of in baseball. First of all, the man known best as the 'Big Hurt' has over 500 career bombs and doesn't deserve to put up with line of bull crap. Obviously, there were issues between him and the coach. I know the $10 million left on his contract wasn't the real reason the Blue Jays wanted to see him leave. If that was the truly the case I hope Frank told management to kiss his ass before walking out the door.

If this arrangement was a mutual agreement I can't imagine Frank was thinking clear. Sounds to me the future Hall of Famer got screwed over royally on this proposition. Why couldn't he just sit on the bench for a few games? Being a DH he's going to get days off anyway and being replaced by Matt Stairs in the lineup couldn't have pushed Thomas to the edge. I don't know why Toronto refused to keep an veteran All-Star slugger around in such a power-driven AL East. What MLB team wouldn't benefit by having Frank Thomas? Any team other the Yankees ought to pick him up as a free-agent.

I know fans don't want to see the Big Hurt retire just yet. Those career numbers are impressive and needs to be recognized and considered by the Blue Jays or other potential buyers in the market. Mistaking frustration of not hitting the baseball for an attitude problem was the main cause of the debacle. If differences can't be worked out Frank ought to take his experience and power bat where he can get respect.

Hornets face ultimate test in first round

The New Orleans was the forgotten team in the NBA for a while. Then they started winning and surprised everyone in the NBA Western conference. After a historic regular season credited with a 56-26 record the Hornets find themselves in a high-pressure challenge with the upcoming playoffs series against the Dallas Mavericks. I don't think it matters that much that New Orleans lost their last 4-of-6 games. Yet many critics feel the young franchise is running on flumes. I have to disagree because the Hornets beat some of the best contenders in the league to earn a no. 2 seed after tying for first place with the Spurs in the Southwest division.

Chris Paul put up lofty numbers among star point guards such as 21.1 ppg, 11.6 assists, and 48.8 % shooting from the field. Everyone knew he earned a spot in the All-Star game. The talent around him only made this team better as the season progressed. Tyson Chandler and David West are key players who have been overlooked. Whether it's crashing the boards, adding a scoring touch, or smothering the opposition with pressure defense the pair are vital to the Hornet's run. The Mavericks coming into the first round series as the favorites seem to have it all. Their experience, depth, and talent can be overwhelming yet the Warriors delivered the knockout blow to them last year.

Dallas would hate to go down again in the first round. That's why I feel the Hornets face the ultimate test. By utilizing their strengths in speed and scoring off transition with timely defensive stops the Hornets can make this one hell of a series. Having a veteran coach in Bryon Scott who has the playoff exposure will also be valuable to the team. Other playoff matchups won't be as thrilling due to the disparity in overall records. For example, Atlanta vs. Boston there is no need to even think about that series. The Hornets fended off the best in the West, playing to the beat of their own drum. I see their series being a challenge of youthful exuberance vs. veteran star power.

Wind patterns and new stadiums effecting early homerun totals

With all the new baseball stadiums built in recent years fans have grown accustomed to seeing a massive output of homeruns. Down the left and right field lines at 315 and 320 feet players certainly can rack up on long ball totals. Just noticing how the wind effects play on the field, there are more chances for errors yet scoreboard operators have to take these conditions into consideration before making a decision. Chicago is known as the windy city and in yesterday's game between the White Sox and Tigers everything went to the home team's favor. The big band came from Paul Konerko's grand slam in the 5th. A deafening blow to the Tigers. Jim Leyland took a different approach with his team after the loss, scolding them for their lack of performance.

Also there were a few 1-run games such as the Rangers and the Blue Jays. The contest didn't end on a high note in extra innings. A sacrifice fly was hit to put Toronto up 5-4 and go on to get the win. Nearly the same result occurred in the Cubs and the Phillies match-up. Derek Lee made a game saving defensive stop which made a big difference. All through this game the wind was a contributing factor which hurt and helped both teams. The Cubs first baseman sprung for 3 and 2 RBIs as well in route to the 6-5 victory. A error at first allowed Chicago to score the go ahead run in the 10th and notched Kerry Wood first win.

Teams will have to rely heavily on their bullpen because of the field conditions and power surge by opposing hitters. The lopsided scores baffle fans, nobody wants to see errors all the time in a game, but it happens. Further into the season players will be settled in and more comfortable than now. As the weather heats up so will the star players. In April teams are really just starting to work out the kinks. Guys need extra rest sometimes and that's okay. In a few months the baseballs will be soaring out the ballparks. Babe Ruth would want it that way as well the great Red Sox, Yankees rivalry to continue.

Warriors powered by Baron Davis' 33 points

Baron Davis lead the charge to victory Tuesday, drawing the Warriors closer to a playoff spot. Experiencing another remarkable season despite the off and on player injuries the Warriors won't quit. Being in such a fierce Western conference Golden State has fought hard to survive. The 140-136 win over the Kings showed their will to succeed. Baron Davis delivered with 33 points and 9 assists. The Lakers and Mavericks will be a thorn in their side, but the Warriors' have dealt with being the underdog in the past.

As the season dwindles down nearing the playoffs Golden State fans must be proud to see how the franchise has made a big turnaround and become a major contender. I like the team chemistry. Their emotions ride so high during games that they thrive off all the energy around them. It would be great to see them in the playoffs. A day off will allow the Warriors to rejuvenate as they get set to play the Nuggets on Thursday before taking on the Clippers and Suns.

Davidson sparks major upset against Georgetown

The underdog reigned supreme Sunday as Davidson fought off the Hoyas 74-70. Few small teams such as Davidson has shown the tenacity to overcome huge obstacles. Delivering the offensive punch Stephen Curry paved the way, scoring 30 points. His efforts helped the Wildcats rally from a 17-point deficit. Now they go on to the Sweet 16 joining a talented pack of talent. No one can underestimate their sharp shooting and ability to go on wild streaks. Guard Jason Richards also notched 20 points in the win as a complimentary effort.

Nobody can dare say Davidson isn't a threat in the tournament. With a 28-6 record overall their competition better take them dead serious. They look on to higher horizons as they will hook up with Wisconsin (3) which shapes up to be a tremendous game. I think it will come down to a 2-3 point game and Wisconsin will get the victory. It wouldn't be out of the ordinary though if the Wildcats headed into the Elite 8. I just think their opponent has a more high powered scoring starting lineup. Stephen Curry will make it interesting with his sweet shooting touch. Best luck to both teams.

UNC ready to do battle against Mount St. Mary's

The Tarheels look to pick up where they left off and enter the NCAA tournament with a burst of energy. Winning the ACC championship against Clemson proved to be fruitful, earning a no. 1 seed. They have to get out early against Mount St. Mary's and don't let up on the defensive pressure. Everyone rooting for the Heels will have high expectations for Tyler Hansbrough as he's delivered so many times in the clutch this season. With UNC's two main point guards got injured the hard-nosed, tenacious junior carried the team on his shoulders. A new challenge awaits them tonight. They can't get too comfortable in this first round matchup because it could come back to bite them.

Learning from the Duke vs. Belmont game, avoiding the same mistakes as their rival, UNC can be better prepared by studing game film. I have a feeling Coach Roy Williams will have his troops charged up with strategies all laid out. The Tarheels though will be responsible for executing these plays. North Carolina thrives on fast-break chances and ought to run as often as possible. Since the Tarheels only allow around 69 points on average by their opponents they shouldn't face a scare against the Mountaineers who held a 11-7 record in the Northeast conference and are 19-14 overall. The action gets underway tonight at 7 p.m. ET on CBS.

Alex Gordon aims to improve performance in Spring Training

I have never been a Kansas City Royals fan. They're just not appealing to me. The franchise has hit new record lows in overall losses in the past 5 years. They have yet to reel in the pool of talent which will make them a winning team. Last year's rookie Alex Gordon was drafted as a top pick hoping to change the Royals outlook. He's looking for a fresh start in Spring Training. Too many veterans have bounced around on this team leaving the young blood on the roster to fend for themselves. I know scouts and the Royals had high expectations for the rookie third baseman. His numbers weren't bad at all: 15 homeruns, 60 RBIs, .247 average, and 12 SB.

It's still going to be a disappointing season for KC. They added a few new additions in outfielder Jose Guillen and starting pitcher Bret Tomko. The last time the Royals won 70 or more games was in 2000 when they finished with a 77-85 record. If Gordon gets lucky he'll become a free agent after his contract expires and move on elsewhere. He's too talented to stay on such a horrible team which usually finishes dead last in the American League. Spring Training will at least give the young guys like Gordon chances to hone their skills, get fundamentals down pat, and improve their overall game. After all the players will learn it's too bad that the Royals will suck again anyway.

Tarheels become ACC champions, gain top seed in tournament

How about them Tarheels! What a splendid finish to the regular season. Winning the ACC tournament on Sunday was icing on the cake and a great highlight to another special season. Clemson battled them and made it close down to the final minute. UNC slowed down the Clemson offense and hit the big shots in the waning shots. A three-pointer by Marcus Ginyard put the game out of reach. Tyler Hansbrough's contributions and hard work were huge, not for just the championship yet the whole ACC tournament. His game-winning shot against Virginia Tech was stunning.

With the Tarheel's 32-2 record they advance into the NCAA tournament as a no. 1 seed scheduled to play most of their games in Charlotte, North Carolina. Coach Roy Williams doesn't believe they have a distinct advantage with the home court to their credit. He thinks it's all about how successful they are on the court, speaking from experience as his 1995 Kansas team made to the 3rd round in Kansas City and lost to Virginia. It really comes down to momentum in the second half unless a team is getting blown out and has no chance at a comeback. The Tarheels will have plenty of supporters packed in the seats. Energy from the crowd won't be a problem.

UNC joins Memphis, Kansas, and UCLA as no. 1 seeds entering the tournament. I know there will be a couple of big upsets. I'll have to look over the bracket again to make my picks since there are some tough matchups. I don't see the Heels running into any major challenges until at the least the Sweet Sixteen. With Ty Lawson back running the offense and the bench playing well I like their chances. One thing I'd like to see more of though is Hansbrough getting more foul called in the paint. He's got whacked several times and not be granted trips to the free-throw line. The refs better call it like they see it in the tournament or else they should be thrown out the game.

A one in a lifetime at-bat for Billy Crystal

I didn't know Major League Baseball made miracles happen for celebrities. I guess it also helps if you attend most of your favorite team's home games, publicly support that team, and have a crap load of cash. The New York Yankees keep surprising people with their recent generous ways. First with announcing they will have a special event next week at Virginia Tech and then allowing actor Billy Crystal to play in a spring training game as the first inning DH. George Steinbreiner really wants to be endearing to fans. He sure doesn't have a problem filling seats in Yankee Stadium every year. I'm glad to see the Yanks extend favors and special opportunities.

Getting to make a debut as a Yankee at any age is a one in a lifetime chance. Just be allowed to step into the batters box and take some hacks seemed to be good enough for Billy Crystal. Sure he struck out, but it was a memorable moment not just for him though also for baseball fans. The Pirates pitcher he faced didn't float any pitches in the zone for him. I'm sure at the next All-Star celebrity and Old Timers game everyone will be ribbing Crystal about his performance. Many fans thought he should have retired before being cut by the team. That way he'd leave the game with dignity. Now if he had the bases loaded and went down on strikes it would've been one of the worst debuts of all-time.

Excited fan manages to greet Lebron on court

I know maintaing security everywhere is more of a concern than it ever. In sports arenas it was should be a top priority. The recent publicity exploit at Madison Square Garden involving a determined basketball fan to race onto the court and shake Lebron James' hand calls their security into question. In today's world this could be potentially disastrous or just plain unsafe. I realize the Knicks have grown accustomed to the fights among fans and their bitterness towards losing, but unauthorized people can't just roam the court to ask for an autograph or greet a favorite player up close. This guy who managed to slip by security probably had no intentions other than to congratulate Lebron on his scoring performance and let him know he was a big fan.

This story would've created a real scare and probably caused the media to blow a gasket if the enthusiastic fan asked the Cavs superstar to sign his shoes and jersey and all of a sudden a handgun fell out of his pants. The same would go for any character who dashed to the sidelines with a wild look on their face and started hollering, "OH SNAP! LEBRON THAT DUNK WAS OFF THE HIZZLE FOR REAL!" Such random outbursts (even though maybe affectionate) shouldn't be allowed at sporting events. I'm not sure what Lebron was thinking when he invited this fan to a later game between the Cavs and Nets. I really like Lebron and admire him, but he may have opened the flood gates to fan interference.

The NBA needs to intervene into this arrangement because it will give other fans the idea this sort of behavior is okay and is rewarded. I know King James cares about his fans and want to keep them satisfied, but buying them tickets as a special gift isn't the answer. He also has to take his own safety into consideration. Fans can enjoy the game from their seats and send shoutouts or boo whomever they want from there. The whole walking on court and getting up close with the players will cause panic and pose a distraction if it's not stopped.

Doc Rivers not satisfied with Celtics' 50 wins

Sitting on top of the East the Boston Celtics are on a 9-game winning streak. To an already stellar star-studded lineup a new veteran guard joins the team in Sam Cassell. He cut ties with the Clippers (real smart move) to play for a contender. With all the positives surrounding the franchise they still aren't content with their 50-12 record. I know they don't want to be too cocky or take the rest of season for granted, but the Celtics don't have to be concerned about the playoffs until that time comes. The only team close to them is the Pistons. Both teams have clinched their divisions.

Doc Rivers was interviewed after the Celtics' 100-86 win over the Sixers. He commented about how the Celtics aren't going to bask in the glory of 50 wins and they have loftier goals to achieve. I understand he wants his players focused and not to get carried away with their success. That doesn't mean his team can't celebrate a little and get excited, come on Doc where is your spirit? With Garnett, Pierce, Allen, and Cassell healthy Boston will be a scary team to face in the playoffs. When a starter like Garnett can hit 11-of-14 field goals for 26 points as he did last night other teams will have a tough time containing their offense.

I think coming down to the final week of the regular season schedule Boston can relax because there will be no point in overextending themselves and risking injury to one of their stars. I can't say they're the best team in the East, but they sure look like it right now. Their real competition in the conference will be the Pistons, Cavaliers, and Magic. As a team the Celts average 101 points per game (allow 90 by opponents) and shoots 39% on three-pointers. Their defense will be tested to great lengths though, and is a weakness they can improve upon. They may not have the long incredible streak of the Houston Rockets, but are well on their way to a fantastic finish.

Rockets on fire with 17-game win streak

One thing is certain in the NBA Western conference, it's going to be a fight to the finish. The Houston Rockets expect to give the other contenders a run for their money. Losing the injured Yao Ming for the rest of the year hasn't slowed down the streaky Rockets. They're riding a 17-game win streak. They've come off an impressive 113-98 win over the Mavs on Thursday night. Tracy McGrady fueled the offense, leading his team to a comeback against a conference opponent they had lost their last 10-of-11 meetings against. McGrady churned out 31 points, delivering in the clutch while adding 9 assists.

Houston is coping well without their star center and have achieved a 41-20 mark, placing them 3rd in the Southwest division, 2.5 games out of first. The starting lineup is playing at another level since Yao went on the shelf and believe they can endure the remainder of the season schedule to clinch the playoffs. It's going to be a bummer for those teams in the West who will win 50 games and still won't enter the playoffs. With the defensive strength supplied through starters Shane Battier and Rafer Alston combined with McGrady timely, consistent scoring the Rockets are well on their way to late season success. Houston will be okay if the bench continues to make solid contributions. They will try to extend their win streak against the Hornets on Saturday.

Tarheels back to no. 1, prevail over FSU 90-77

There is a new no. 1 team in the land and the North Carolina Tarheels couldn't be happier to be in the driver's seat again. They have to also be pleased that star point guard Ty Lawson is back on the court. Though, he's not at 100% he's presence and ability to keep the offense flowing is pivotal to UNC's success. Last night in Chapel Hill the Tarheels made the most of Senior Night and put on a great show. Florida State forced the Heels to work for leads in the first half. The hot shooting from the field did the Seminoles in and their inability to make defensive stops in the final 10 minutes.

North Carolina shot 54% in the game to Florida State's 43%. The dominant force once again inside was Tyler Hansbrough. He was the top scorer with 20 points while pulling down 9 rebounds. The Carolina Seniors, Quinton Thomas and Surly Wood got their moments of glory, leading the floor in the second half to standing ovations. It's good to see the seniors get their chance to shine and play well on a special night. Points off second chance offensive boards was put for the Tarheels. They out rebounded their opponent 41-27. With the win wrapped up the Heels look to get the no. 1 seed in the ACC tournament.

The end of the regular season schedule is most anticipated for UNC as they'll square off with the nemesis on Saturday in an ACC showdown. I know this game has potential for greatness and usually comes down to the final possession or goes into overtime. If the Tarheels head into the tournament with a 29-2 (counting on a victory over Duke) that will be awesome. I have to believe when the Tarheels are at full speed and strength they're one of the toughest teams to beat in the nation. Now suck on that Blue Devils! Woooooooooo! GO TARHEELS!!

Wizards knock off hot Hornets, Jamison flourishes with big game

The New Orleans Hornet took the Western conference by surprise. With a 1.5 games behind the Spurs in the Southwest division. they came into Washington last night coming off a big win against the Utah Jazz over the weekend. Unfortunately, the Wizards refused to become another one of their victims. The offensive firepower wasn't there for the Hornets who normally play with high energy and offensive intensity. Without Gilbert Arenas or Caron Butler on the court Washington found their scoring solution in Antawn Jamison. He lead them to a 101-84 victory scoring 28 points and grabbing 9 rebounds.

Washington took a lead into halftime and continued to build upon it. The guys off the bench chipped in well to help out with 35 points. The deciding factor down the stretch was made free-throws. Back-to-back threes late in the 4th quarter put the game out of reach. Although the Wizards are a game below .500 they won 4 of their last 5 games without their 2 central pieces to their offense. They really have to push and play like there is no tomorrow to earn a final playoff seed in the East. When and if they get Caron Butler back some serious ground could be gained in their division. For now the young guys filling temporary starting roles and more minutes off the bench will have to step up their game.

Bringing back the retro 70's basketball style

On a fitting day such as Leap Day a part of basketball history is being relived in the new comedy movie, Semi-Pro. I like the idea of a historical piece on the ABA league. Back then the short shorts were in as well as the puffy afros. It was a time when white guys never rushed shots and made a good 10 passes on each possession. The object I think back then not to outscore the opponent, but to see how long you could play keep away from them. Plus witnessing a white player dunk was a rarity. Only until stars like Julius Erwing entered the league did the real razzle dazzle finishes evolve.

In an era where disco was popular the players all sported the thick sideburns and briskly mustaches. The knee high socks were a big deal too for some reason. If an athlete chose to maintain such an appearance today he would definitely feel out of place and probably be heckled to the point of no end. Today some players like to wear the headbands, color-coordinating them to their jersey. In the 70's, uniforms were so tight on players defenders probably uncomfortable guarding them so close. The headbands looked so snug that it was cutting off oxygen to the brain. I did like those red, white, and blue regulation basketballs though because at least you could spot them easily on the court if had suffered from poor farsighted vision.

Warm-up drills seemed to set more on a serious tone in that era than they are now. No screwing around was allowed and a routine of fundamentals was expected. That meant no missed layups. If players failed to maintain 100% accuracy the coaches benched them for long periods and made them run extra suicides in practice. Today's penalties in the NBA are a far cry from the stern repercussions in the 70's. For getting a physical confrontation with a coach could result in a player being banned from the league. I can only imagine back then what would have happened to former Golden State Warrior Latrell Sprewell if he would've lashed out and tried to choke his coach.

Shaq settles in with Suns yet the big fella needs time to get in shape

The lowly Miami Heat must be feeling like the most unlucky team in the NBA. Sure they managed to end an 11-game losing skid, but that won't get rid of the bitter sting which will last the rest of the season. A week or so ago I made it clear how I felt about the Shaq trade. Phoenix definitely caught the better end of the deal while Miami completely disregarded how it would effect the franchise and minimize Dwayne Wade phenomenal efforts. Now the worries of playing for a real stinker are over for Shaq. He showed vast progress in last night's win over the (Okay Memphis sucks big time in the West this year though Shaq still deserves credit for getting a double-double).

Thanks to the nifty passing from Steve Nash and the star power surrounding the Diesel things are starting to look up for him with the Suns. No longer does he have to shield his ears from the relentless echo of boos and be expected to abide by former Coach Riley's pointless offensive play sets (like these strategies ever worked earlier in the season, Pat) None of that bothersome chatter is a problem for him anymore. The 127-113 win over the Grizzlies Tuesday night showed the big fella in a whole new light. His improved performance of 13 points and 11 rebounds was only overshadowed by second year rising star Rudy Gay who notched 36 points for Memphis.

It appears as if Shaq is making a nice fit for his new team (In my eyes I can only see him as a Miami Heat player no matter how bad they suck). What I'm concerned about is his minutes on the floor. Last night he only played 24 minutes which has got to change. I know Grant Hill and Steve Nash will be sucking up most of the minutes, but it's high time Shaq really works on improving his endurance. The mobility obviously isn't what it used to be and that's understandable at his age plus with the injuries.

Come playoff time, however the lumbering up and down the court will be a crucial factor. I just don't want to see Shaq get lazy and start cherry picking and not getting back on defense. If the superstar veteran center stays fit (maybe take a little extra time to practice free-throws) he'll regain his dominance in the low post and heighten his defensive presence. Best of luck on the rest of season Shaq!

UNC overpowers Wake Forest 89-73

Still without their star point guard the Tarheels are doing just fine against their ACC rivals. Behind the power play of Tyler Hansbrough the offense isn't a problem. Sunday it was all gravy for the Heels as they duked it out against Wake Forest at Chapel Hill. Attacking the rim UNC took an early lead and carried it into the second half. Both teams shot the ball well in the game.
North Carolina hit 56% from the field while Wake connected on 48%. Hansbrough once again took command inside pouring out 29 points on 9-of-13 shooting from the field. Forward/guard Danny Green cleaned up around the goal with 9 rebounds while adding 15 points.

Free-throws missed really hurt the Demon Deacons down the stretch as they only made 8-of-17. James Johnson was their high scoring with 22 points. Expected to get a decent seed in the
ACC tournament Wake will have to turn up their performance a notch and not be running on flumes come tournament time. At 26-2 UNC isn't worried about their placement in the tournament, but when Ty Lawson will be ready to rejoin the squad. If all goes well hopefully he'll be back by 2 week of March if not sooner. The Tarheels really flourish with his speed on the court and his ability to run the offense and excel on fast break chances. Can't wait to see him return and help give the Tarheels a push during March Madness!