Trequartista Sweeper - On Jozy, and on being left off the national team

Photo from Soccer By Ives

Surprising non call-ups not just occur on Philippine soil.

On Monday, Jurgen Klinsmann named the players that he would be selecting for the upcoming 2014 World Cup Qualifers at Antigua and Barbuda and against Guatemala that will be played in Kansas City. The Americans need four points from these two matches to ensure they advance to the next round. Clint Dempsey's on it. So is Landon Donovan, Tim Howard, Maurice Edu, Carlos Bocanegra and so on...

However, there is an interesting omission from Klinsmann's pool. 22 year-old AZ Alkmaar striker Jozy Altidore was left off. His eight goals with the club is tied for tops in the Ere Divisie. Yet, Jurgen went with other options at forward, namely Mexico-based Herculez Gomez and MLS players Alan Gordon of San Jose and Eddie Johnson of Seattle. Jozy has been an integral part of the American effort, having been involved in the previous 17 WCQs, currently the longest in the United States.

But if you read Sports Illustrated's Grant Wahl, you might see some interesting things.

"I communicated with Jozy that I was not happy about his latest performances with us, maybe over the last 14 months," Klinsmann said Monday. "Jozy can do much, much better. The reason why he's not coming in is mainly about his performances at Jamaica and at home [last month], also in training. Also certain things that went on through the May-June camp. So we decided to bring in Eddie Johnson and Alan Gordon and give them a chance to show they've improved. They're both doing really well in MLS now."

 Here's another.

When I asked Klinsmann about his club form comment and how it relates to Altidore and Gómez, he said: "I think [club form] is absolutely important. Now it looks a little bit different in Jozy's case because he's doing well with Alkmaar, and he's scoring goals. But he hasn't done well with us in the last couple of camps. That's why I have more trust for these upcoming two games in Eddie Johnson and Alan Gordon."

Does it sound familiar, Filipino football fans?

 

Now whether Klinsmann can replicate what Hans Michael Weiss did remains to be seen, but clearly, Jozy does not seem to be bitter about the non call-up:

When I came right out and asked Altidore -- are you and Klinsmann on the same page? -- he answered straight up. "I'm the student here," Altidore said. "I'm the player and I'm learning always. It doesn't matter if I don't understand. I have to get on the same page as the boss and all the senior players, not the other way around. I'm not a guy who can walk into the team and say, 'Guys, adjust to me.' That's not my mindset. I'm trying to get on the same page as them, and until I do that I'm sure I won't be playing. I want to try and do that as quickly as possible. I want to score great goals for the national team and be dominant for them. But unfortunately it's not so easy sometimes when the styles of play are much different."

I hope there are more people like Jozy in our national team.

Kaya Gangnam Style

Well, they may have only finished with a 1-1 draw to kick off the UFL Cup against Green Archers United, but they sure know how to have fun and enjoy themselves.



Una Kaya Style.

Calendaring Sports Arguments

This is just funny. Thanks to ESPNW's Amanda Rykoff for tweeting this photo.

In the Philippines, it will most likely be basketball, with college taking precedence from June to October, then the PBA on the other months, with the NBA sharing the load when it is on.

Blog Outsourcing - 12/5 edition

Yup, David Beckham and the Los Angeles Galaxy arrived in Manila as part of their Asia-Pacific Tour. You could also consider it as the farewell tour for the English midfielder, considering he already has offers from Paris Saint-Germain and others to return to Europe.

You can check out here for some details. Also here.

Football in the Philippines has come a long way after a year. From being nowhere in sight to now being in the spotlight. Hope this continues.

Here forth are the links to make your morning after the jump.

The Blue-Haired Defense

c/o Life's My Trip

It is very very easy to make allegations if you hid behind the anonymity of a blank face, especially when you making very damaging ones that impede on the integrity of an individual and to a sport and institution.

Here is the said allegation:



It is prudent of a journalist to hear the other side of the story, which the site owner Rick Olivares provided by posting the response around three-and-a-half hours after the anonymous individual placed his. I am posting it here (in full) on a specific post of its own to give it the fullness that it deserves:

This is from Ebong Joson who I have known since our school days in Ateneo. I have also worked with him professionally and have become good friends with in the last few years:

Hello. Si Ebong ito. Gusto ko lang sana malaman kung saan mo nakuha ang info na kumukuha ako sa ticket sales kasi hindi ko kontrolado iyan at ni kailan man ay hindi ako humingi ng cut sa kahit kanino man. Sa totoo lang, ang laki ng nagastos ko just to be able to launch the Kaholeros,at hanggang ngayon ay wala naman akong sweldo dito. Walang perang pampersonal na hinahanap. As for the non-profit incorporation that we are working on, that is the way we can properly seek for sponsorship while giving back to the companies that may help us (and Philippine sports in general and Philippine FOOTBALL in particular) by offering tax breaks to the amount they give. Everything will be in the open. I will never hold any money or bank account, and the distribution and control of assets garnered will be subject to the approval of the Kaholeros board. We will also have a third party auditing firm to make sure everything is properly done. That is why we need the incorportion. Why do we need the sponsorship? Because it costs money to mobilize people. We need to help our members by helping them with transpo, meals, uniforms, and yes, even tickets. Napakarami kong mga members gusto sana mag practice. Gusto sana pumunta sa mga football events, gusto sana makapag cheer para sa PilipinasFutbol, pero hindi kaya kasi sagad ang budget. Yung sponsorships na gusto kong mahanap ay hindi para sa akin kundi para sa mga miyembro ng Kaholeros. Dahil tuwing nakikita ko sila na nahihilo na sa kaka-cheer, iniisip ko kung sila ba ay nakakain ng maigi bago pumunta sa game.

As a parting request, if you really have concrete evidence that I have been raking in the money, or even witnesses to bear to that fact, I would gladly sit down with all of you and Mr Rick Olivares. You can openly reach me on Kaholeros Official (FB Community), or privately through PM in my FB account. Mr Olivares can even put the whole meeting on video, so everyone can see and judge properly the hard work and sacrifice that I and my Kaholeros have made for our country.

Mabuhay, and God Bless.

Ebong Joson
The Blue-Haired Fanatic
Kaholero 

I have seen how much he puts himself into this little vocation and how much he has given to the sport. It is unfair that one individual rewards such sacrifice and nobility with crass. It is not right to impinge the integrity of someone like him if you do not back up what you say. I can personally vouch for the commitment that he puts forth each and every single time.

So please, unless you have something to prove, kindly keep your hands off the keyboard and keep those voices in your head just there, inside your head.

Philippine Sports, Inc.

With the Philippines being cash-strapped as it is, sports needs its patrons and supporters to chip in as most of the time, the government has other priorities that needs its funds more (which is why we need to right people to run our government, especially in those where money is involved).

Good thing there are people who do back the sport. As you can see, Pharma-Rex (the pharmaceutical company behind Cortal SQR) is the latest to provide financial support, as they held a press conference last Wednesday to formally announce their financial contribution to the sport. Most of media emphasized the addition of a couple of German-based players with Filipino descent, but the infusion of cash will definitely help in the development of the sport, especially since they helped with the Homeless World Cup team who will be in competition next week.

Probably the ones best known for assisting with sports has been Manny V. Pangilinan and his conglomerate. Most well known for being the chief force behind SMART-Gilas in basketball, MVP specifically set up his MVP Sports Foundation and SMART Sports for this.

Of course, with all the brouhaha involving our Dragon Boat team and their quest to defend their glory, Filipino-Chinese Tycoon Lucio Tan chipped in with his energy drink and his air carrier.

 

It sure feels like part and parcel of local sports needs corporate assistance. It's good that these kind-hearted souls see the value of doing their share in uplifting the name of the Filipino.

Blog Outsourcing - August 1 edition

Welcome to the latest edition of The Victory Formation

The baseball trade deadline came and went. Football signings are afoot. Things are in sync. Except for the baller in me. There is still no basketball in the foreseeable future in the United States. It's disappointing, but I still need my normal updates on basketball. By this time, there should be discussion on the Association, like some summer league action.

I was also a little disappointed because our football team exited out of the 2014 World Cup. Sure, we played a tough opponent, but we had our chances and we muffed those. Nothing else to it. We'll be better at it and Moscow beckons for us.

On the other hand, my alma mater is 5-0. And that is a very awesome feeling.


Here forth are the links after the jump:

Blog Outsourcing - 4/25 edition

Welcome to today's edition of The Victory Formation.

Happy Easter, everyone. The significance of the holiday for Christians all across the world signifies one's faith.

"If you have faith, you have hope. And if you have hope, you have life."

I love that quote. And more impressively, that quote came from Sixers head coach Doug Collins.

Easter means the end of Lent. It means the end of my sort of penance. Mine has been to not to order burgers and fries for the entire span. Yup, 39 days of no burgers. (I did have a one day cheat by having this). Now I can finally have my taste of Baconators, Big Macs, Double Downs, Champs, etc.

Lots of great action over the past two days in the Association. It would be a total shame if both the owners and the players decided to chuck it all away with a stupid lockout, I tell you.

So what went on in the NBA Playoffs? Here is my take on the scene.

Deconstructing the From the Stands Podcast - Episode 10

Being friends of the people involved the From the Stands podcast, I always download and listen to their shows over its different iterations. I decided to finally give in and deconstruct their discussions onto a post.

The first episode I will decipher and react to would be Episode 10.

Spectators Should Expect to see Changes Made to Olympics

This is a guest post co-written by Nerissa Barry and Daniel Fielding. Any comments and queries can fielded to Nerissa via nerdbarry@gmail.com

The United States Olympic Committee USOC is not only looking to further the athletic accomplishments but also making sustainable environmental changes to the Winter Games. And with the bid for the 2022 games being awarded in 2015, they must be able to move fast with their efforts. The quest has already started in naming Andrew Liveris and Dow Chemical as the worldwide partner in the Olympics for the next decade. 

During the last Winter Olympic Games (the Vancouver 2010 games), the United States garnered the most number of medals with 37, broken down into 9 gold, 15 silver and 13 bronze. Thanks to American dominance in snowboarding (i.e. Shaun White), Nordic combined (i.e Lindsey Vonn), speed skating (i.e. Shani Davis) and skiing, it only makes sense that the United States should host the 2022 Winter Games. With possible venues like Denver and Reno-Tahoe, the USOC is looking to prepare a bidding process with the International Olympic Committee in hopes of bring great changes to this world celebration.

After the controversy over what transpired in securing the Salt Lake City bid, USOC Chairman, Larry Probst hopes to rebuild relationships first with their international counterparts before releasing all information concerning the bid. What we do know is that there is a lot of talk about making the Games more environment-friendly, and with this, the United States could put themselves in high bid mentions with what they're looking to add to the 2022 Winter Olympics. 

Why are these changes such a big deal? As fantastic and unifying as the Olympics are, it's quite a carbon-rich event. Over 2/3 of the estimated carbon emissions from the event come from some of the 1.5+ million attendees traveling (mostly via airplane) to and from the event.

While the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics made great efforts to showcase conservation practices and sustainable energy sources, USOC members and sponsors are looking to go the extra mile on becoming a greener Olympics with these proposed plans:

• Solar power - Used to light lawns, courtyards and streets at several venues, including the Olympic Village. A 130 KW photovoltaic system illuminated The National Stadium, where events such as athletics and football were held. 

• Water Conservation - Waste water collected from the Qinghe sewage treatment plant was filtered and used for the various heating and cooling needs throughout the Olympics site, yielding a 60% savings in electricity. Rainwater was collected from around the grounds, collecting over 75,000 gallons by using water permeable bricks, pipes and wells installed on roofs, roads and green areas.

• Natural Light - Remember the famous 'Water Cube' where the aquatic events were held? The walls of the National Aquatics Centre provided natural light, and for the interior of the building, specially designed 'beam-pipes' funneled sunlight into corridors, toilets and car parks at venues, including the Olympic Green. 

• Recycling - The 2008 Olympic hosts aimed for a 50 per cent recycling of waste including paper, metals and plastics at venues. A modest expectation, considering that a test run carried out during the 11th World Softball Championships held in 2007, achieved a nearly 90 per cent recycling rate. 

The IOC saw the opportunity to promote sustainability in the Olympics in 2008, helping provide the filtration and insulation for the events. That vision has progressed to include dozens of other products which will help reduce waste and promote conservation. You can expect these products to appear at the coming events over the next decade and be a part of the USOC recommendations.

Blog Outsourcing 8/2

Welcome to today's edition of Sparty & Friends.

The past two days have some weird special significance that are very interesting and weird.

First, July 31 not only serves as the end of the month, but also serves a special day for all Jesuits and its institutions. That day is St. Ignatius Day. Saint Ignatius of Loyola was after all, the founder of the Society of Jesus. He died on that day in 1556. Known for the Spiritual Exercises, he is also the patron saint of the Basque region and spritual retreats.

In the midst of the collegiate season, we normally win those games. And we did last Saturday against National University.

Yesterday, August 1, is a special day for all Simpsons fans. Specifically, yesterday was the day Lisa Simpson was to be married. Yup, Lisa Simpson was to be married to Hugh St. John Alastair Parkfield. That occurred during Season 6.

Interesting tidbits from the wedding include:

- The networks have merged into ABCNNBCBS; FOX is now a hardcore sex channel

- Brits can brag about saving America's ass in WWIII.

- The Rolling Stones have embarked on their "Steel Wheelchair" tour (and are lauded for their "tireless efforts to preserve historic buildings").

And this is the invitation:



Hereforth are the links:

So, the Yankees got Berkman, Wood & Kearns, but lost to the Rays, who only added Chad Qualls. But these additions are for the long haul, with October in mind. Veterans hungry for a ring of their own.

The Dodgers added arms in Ted Lilly (and Ryan Theriot) and Octavio Dotel, but they sorely needed bats, who were MIA in their loss to the Giants, who also needed bats but only secured Javier Lopez and Ramon Ramirez.

Cardinals trying to chase the Reds for both division and wildcard, acquire Jake Westbrook. They sent Ryan Ludwick to the Padres, which sorely needed bats at pitcher-friendly Petco and already made an immediate impact against the Marlins.

Braves needed a shot in the arm, but they still lost to the Reds.

Wilson Ramos will be catching Strasburg fastballs next season, who is looking good in rehab right now.

Whether Drayton McLane likes it or not, he is now rebuilding. So are the D-backs.

The Rangers lost today, but all eyes on the auction on Wednesday.

As if the Cubs' ugly season is not bad news already, it already got worse.

Ozzie being Ozzie. Oi! Oi! Oi!

Canadian baseball in flames.

As if people do not really know why this year has been awesome for pitchers.

CarGo with a nice way to secure a cycle.

Only in Philly. More reasons for that now that Ryan Howard is sidelined.

Dennis the Menace is alright, his twitter tell us.

Tyreke Evans obviously never heard of Bobby Phills.

More updates on Lorenzen Wright.

So, where will the House of Bron be?

Brian Scalabrine news. Unfortunately, Celtics already have his successor in Luke Harangody.

This would be awesome if it was 10 years ago.

Shaq's new nickname: The Big Belieber.

Whoever you put there, he still would be subject to the whims of Sarver.

STAT in his quest to determine if he is the Messiah for the Knicks, or merely another lost prophet.

Chris Paul in the Hall of Fame?

This is how you leave Cleveland. I actually think his jersey will be in the rafters of the Q someday.

What exactly is the Albert Haynesworth conditioning test? And he still is not partaking of it.

I am sure Roy Williams is really saying, "Sucks to be you, brotha."

Figuring out what could T.O. be in Cincy.

Is Antrel Rolle the Giant solution? Or is it be Keith Bulluck?

Nice to know he is back on the field.

Ndamukong Suh: all-around good guy. Unfortunately, he still cannot help the Lions right now.

This guy will not be the 3rd string QB.

Revis Island currently on vacation. Hopefully, Kyle Wilson will maximize the opportunity.

New era in San Diego. Welcome to life after LdT.

Derek Dooley denies an exit strategy for Bryce Brown.

Take a chance. Take a chance. Take a chance, chance, chance.

Stuart Appleby ties a record David Duval held by himself.

Hopefully by then, he would be back to his normal tournament-winning self.

This one is for the Roush.

Just because I love saying the name of the racetrack, the Hungaroring.

Juan Manuel Marquez deserves a third shot at the PacMan. I'd rather see that match instead of Margacheato.

Floyd Mayweather is a Chicken. Floyd is a sissy. Floyd is a coward.

Kaka to Chelsea, no mas. Ditto for Ashley Cole to Madrid.

Doubtful that Landon Donovan returns to England.

Thanks to my friend, Sarah for finding this gem.

Blog Outsourcing - 4/19

First of all, I had the pleasure of attending my first Auto Show yesterday, I am amazed with all the vehicles that were there. But there was this one that caught my eye.



Pardon as it is not much, you can say it is partially mailed-in.

And so, it's linking time.

The Durantulas get a reality check. Durant may have had difficulty against RonRon, but he is not fazed.

Magic survive a crash comeback. This matchup features two people from the classic series Avery Johnson wants to forget. Oh, Captain Jack's just fine.

Is this Hasselhoff-lover the best Euro ever?

It took two days, but the road team finally won a game. Because it was Miller Time.

We all knew KG's punk ass attitude will finally catch up to him. Now he pays the price. Q-Rich just pays. And Wade is thinking Frankie Goes to Hollywood.

Here's the memo on Memo: You're done.

Fanhouse has everything covered in this post.

He can play, but the question is actually where will he end up?

Jonathan Dwyer must be emulating Ricky.

Jason Heyward's legend continues. As the 7th person in the batting order.

Congrats Vin Scully! Manny sent you a gift.

Running always helps clear your head. Ask Ubaldo.

Have the Sharks perfected the art of choking?

And enjoy the week ahead.

Blog Outsourcing 3/5

Welcome to a special edition of TMA, since I switched days with Sparty for this week only.

You are probably wondering why I switched. It is because I will be unavailable to post stuff as I will be vacationing in Singapore. After the work I have had the past few days (one of my officemates is ill and I am forced to handle some of his responsibilities), I deserve a break.

Anyhow, this will be brief since all I can think of is that frigging merlion. Time to share the link love.

The uncapped year has arrived. Means that the lockout looms closer than ever. Here is what the ESPN's resident football nerd's FYI on the uncapped year.

Revis Island has a new partner. Expect a lot of balls thrown there.

End of an era in Carolina. That would be a good thing as it ends a running punchline lasting the whole season.

One door closes, another opens for this solid veteran. Another reason why they should be drafting this guy instead of this guy.

Darren Sproles is a $7-million/yr running back. Really.

Meanwhile Da Bears taking a Redskin-like approach to FA.

Speaking of the Redskins, Sam Bradford is 1/16 Cherokee. Just saying...

The Lions make the first big move of the 2010 FA season, getting another Decepticon for Megatron.

He will make his spring training debut this Monday. Is he the missing pitching piece the Reds need?

Sparty is very happy he does not have to see Doc anytime soon. In addition, CC looked good.

Finley in Celtic green? My simple say, if he was of any help, the Spurs would have still kept him around.

Simple capsule as to what happened in the Association. But this quote will annoy GITC to no end.

(although Brad Miller did a good job on Mark Gasol)

Dallas, Atlanta, Denver: you can stop trying to coax him out of Cleveland.

Another trade deadline just passed by. Who benefited the most?

Resorting to hiding newspapers is a funny way of conducting censorship. Thank goodness for the interwebs.

20 years ago, he inspired a midmajor run. Memories run deep, After Len, Hank is a major what could have been...

Get well soon, Austin. If Adam Morrison can get it done, so can you.

This is where Manny > Floyd. Floyd got no singing chops.

She dunks. She punches. She's suspended.

Futbol update: Owen out for Glazer's New Boys. Ditto for Bosingwa.

These Giants were able to get it done. How they did it? Here is how.

To end, this is a funny take on where I will be on Monday.

Blog Outsourcing 2/22

 

Today is Monday. It is technically a holiday here, but only for students. The working class hero (like me) will be plugging away at the office. Well, today back in 1986, there was a bloodless revolution that toppled a dictator four days later. I was only four years old then, so not much memories.

Speaking of Mondays, this particular day of the week is always a struggle for me. Since I work under the Eastern timezone, which is 13 hours (or 12 in certain circumstances), it equates to being at work late at night until the early morning. So if I had a great weekend, I need to compensate and readjust my clock back to where it was. Serious sluggishness ensues. But no worries. I love my job and what i do, so there.

Here are the links, after the jump.

Redemption for Salt Lake City? Mission still unfinished, though. Oh. 30 years ago, today....

NBC = FAIL. Agreed? Good thing I managed to watched it sort of (TV was on while I dozed off).

Finally. A gold he long needed for legitimacy.

In this new era of the interwebs and mobile media, bad press is really not good. Especially with this coming after the Michael Phelps mess.

Ohno makes history!!!!

Sore loser?

Here is the updated medal count.

48 for 48.

There is a reason why the Twins have a new ballpark. I am so sure Sparty wants to pry him out of J-Rod's hands.

I wonder if GITC is his main apologist.

Keep raising the Durant-e, Kevin.

Trey must be in a good mood. Sparty as well.

Again, I know John will give an arm and a leg to ensure a healthy Paul Pierce.

This video is special was inspired from the comments from yesterday.

TWTWTNBA: Breaking Down the Trade Deadline deals

And so, these are the deals that beat the deadline buzzer.

1. Dallas gets Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and Deshawn Stevenson from Washington for Josh Howard, Drew Gooden, James Singleton and Quinton Ross

2. Portland gets Marcus Camby from the LA Clippers for Travis Outlaw and Steve Blake

3. New York gets Brian Cardinal from Minnesota for Darko Milicic

4. Cleveland gets Antawn Jamison and Sebastian Telfair from the LA Clippers and Washington. LA Clippers get Drew Gooden from Washington. Washington gets Zydrunas Ilgauskas, draft rights to Emir Preldzic and a 2010 1st rounder from Cleveland, as well as Al Thornton from the LA Clippers.

5. Chicago gets Hakim Warrick and Joe Alexander from Milwaukee for John Salmons, 2011 and 2012 second round picks and option to switch 2010 1st round picks (with top-10 protection for Chicago)

6. Charlotte gets Theo Ratliff from San Antonio for a future second round pick.

7. Charlotte gets Tyrus Thomas from Chicago for Acie Law, Flip Murray and a future first round pick.

8.  Milwaukee gets Royal Ivey, Primoz Brezec and a 2010 second round pick from Philadelphia for Jodie Meeks and Francisco Elson.

9. Memphis gets Ronnie Brewer from Utah for a future 1st round pick.

10. Sacramento gets Dominic McGuire from Washington for a future second round pick.

11. Boston gets Nate Robinson and Marcus Landry from New York for J.R. Giddens, Eddie House, Bill Walker and a future conditional second round pick.

12. New York gets Tracy McGrady and Sergio Rodriguez from Houston and Sacramento. Sacramento gets Larry Hughes, Carl Landry and Joey Dorsey from New York and Houston. Houston gets Kevin Martin, Jared Jeffries, Jordan Hill, Hilton Armstrong, the right exchange 2011 1st round picks and a protected 2012 first round pick from New York and Sacramento.

And let's take a look at each team who partook of the trades.

Dallas nets Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and Deshawn Stevenson. Caron represents an upgrade in scoring talent from the enigma that is Josh Howard. He would be a nice 3rd wheel to Dirk and the Jet. Haywood finally becomes the low post presence Damp was inconsistently trying to be. Stevenson will be a defensive specialist ala Trenton Hassell / Greg Buckner. We'll see if this move makes Cuban's crew worthy challengers to the Lake Show.

Washington nets Josh Howard, Quinton Ross, James Singleton, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Al Thornton, draft picks and draft rights. You can blame Agent Zero for the quick implosion of the Wizards, which will be completed by the time Gilbert is jettisoned out. Foye and Howard represent some good talent now. Javale McGee and Andray Blatche will be your low post "threats" and if they do not get John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins would be an interesting alternative.

Portland nets Marcus Camby. Had to be done because you are asking too much from Juwan Howard to play 30++ as your starting big. This hopefully also frees up minutes for Jerryd Bayless with Andre Miller now starting. In addition, also frees up minutes to be divvied up between Nicolas Batum, Rudy Fernandez and Martell Webster once Brandon Roy is healthy again.

LA Clippers nets Steve Blake, Travis Outlaw and Drew Gooden. They officially are now in play for the 2010 sweepstakes. Only 4 Clippers are not free agents (Blake Griffin, Eric Gordon, Baron Davis and DeAndre Jordan). Outlaw serves as an upgrade over Thornton and will be a key component once he is healthy again. Jordan now steps in to play major minutes now with Marcus out of the way. The potential is there to be harnessed. GM Dunleavy has an idea on how to play this offseason.

New York nets Brian Cardinal, Eddie House, J.R. Giddens, Bill Walker, Tracy McGrady, Sergio Rodriguez and a draft pick. I shudder at the thought of the Knicks not getting anything out of this year's crop of free agents.

Minnesota nets Darko Milicic. After watching Lebron vs Melo on the front end of the TNT doubleheader, I remembered the All-Star game in Jerryworld and I remembered my tweet: 5 of the top 6 picks of the 2003 draft class were in it. Darko, welcome to the frozen tundra / barren wasteland.

Cleveland nets Antawn Jamison and Sebastian Telfair. I wonder what was Danny Ferry discussing / teaching Antawn and Bassy while watching Lebron pull out a 40+, 10+, 10+ game. Last time someone pulled out a 40-15-15 was Pistol Pete in 1974. Welcome to the all-or-nothing show feat. the Lebrons.

Chicago nets Hakim Warrick, Joe Alexander, Acie Law, Flip Murray and draft picks. Bulls are stuck in the middle of a middling group of teams that are in the playoff race while retaining cap flexibility. Hakim and Tyrus are kind of the same talent. They still might not be finished as they still have to figure things out with Hinrich.

Milwaukee nets John Salmons, Royal Ivey, Primoz Brezec and draft picks. They might finally have someone who can replace Michael Redd's numbers and minutes. Like the Bulls, they also might not be finished.

Charlotte nets Theo Ratliff and Tyrus Thomas. Larry Brown is going for the stretch run to get the 'Cats a playoff berth. Ratliff plays the right way and they can be patient with Tyrus given the depth of their bigs. Priority now will be getting DJ Augustine to "play the right way" and getting a little more guard help with Felton.

San Antonio nets a draft pick. Well, this move is for cap reasons and cap reasons only.

Philadelphia nets Francisco Elson, Jodie Meeks and draft picks. Considering the circumstances, they merely tweaked their mediocre lineup. They got talent, but they really need to figure out what to f'n do to Elton Brand. They need him to produce the way he did with the Clippers and not this pedestrian guy they are overpaying. One thing for sure, Sammy Dalembert is playing inspired ball right now (although I gotta admit, he's still overpaid).

Memphis nets Ronnie Brewer. Finally, a productive piece they can use for their bench. No team is as reliant on their best five than the Grizz (Conley, Mayo, Gay, Randolph, Gasol).

Utah nets a draft pick. See my comment on the Spurs. Besides, they love Wes Matthews, Ronnie Price and Sundiata right now. Oh, and they are definitely rooting for Knick failures. Imagine if John Wall goes to Utah. Or Evan Turner.

Sacramento nets Dominic Mcguire, Larry Hughes, Carl Landry and Joey Dorsey. Relatively surprised with them dealing K-Mart, but they apparently deem him as expendable with Tyreke. I think Carl Landry will be in way over his head with this deal, but the Kings need low post offensive threats and he is one of those. I still hope the Bear Jew gets more minutes now.

Houston nets Kevin Martin, Jordan Hill, Hilton Armstrong, Jared Jeffries and draft picks. Rick Adelman coached K-Mart in Sacramento. He knows what he will be getting from him. He will be great with them right now. Even better once Yao returns next season. Daryl Morey may have definitely has outsmarted two of the smart genius GMs in the NBA (Petrie / Walsh). They added size and another Battier-like player in Jeffries to boot. Now H-Town has three defensive options (Shane, Trevor and Jared) to sick on the likes of Kobe, Melo, Roy, Dirk, etc.

Boston nets Nate Robinson and Marcus Landry. Big D has said he is pretty disappointed that this is the only move they made. But considering what Jesus Shuttlesworth pull off against the Lake Show, maybe the right thing was not trading Walter Ray. Still, this team needs a shock in the system.

Blog Outsourcing - 2/1/10

Welcome to the first TMA of February. In days, it will be Single Awareness Day all over again for all unattached people everywhere.

I need a date. I need love. I need eternal happiness and bliss. At least all of you have a lovelife. I don't. What should I do?

Maybe I should do the ff:

1. Shape up.
2. Save.
3. Be true to myself.
4. Act like I was already worked on by the Queer Eye folks.

Anything else? Maybe Trey's advise as seen in previous posts would be a great suggestion for all desperate single guys and ladies out there.

***

Oh, I was at my sister's debut the other day. She looked like an absolute pink princess. Looking back, I felt that I should be able to be more of a responsible bro and be more of service. Also realized that man, I look so dated at my pictures. I also thought about my dad, who wanted this to happen for her. Man, time has passed. Anyway, stop being mushy.

Time for Link love:

Grade III Sprain = Torn Ligaments. Will you play, Dwight Freeney?

Will Bobby Hebert outdress Lady Gaga?

Rex always finds a way to get attention. He always does, patphish? Where was he? He was here.

Your mandatory Pro Bowl Update.
Maybe positive things in the future of H-Town.

Feel free to castigate the choices of the 00's All-Decade Team.

Ok, who wants Julius Peppers should raise their hands.

Bad juju for Nawlins? Maybe good juju for Chauncey.

Today is Lakers stole Pau Gasol day. To celebrate, they kept the C's struggling. Coming soon. JP toys with the Trade Machine.

John Lithgow vs Ron Jeremy in the All-Star Game.

Kevin Durant is awesome.

The Maple Leafs made their move. Let's see if it pays off.

NHL can't get a break with scheduling. Stanley Cup rematch gets buried on Pro Bowl Sunday, Grammys, and Boston-LA. Penguins have not lost on shootouts.

Miz > Trey. Unfortunately, no jorts on the line.

Not good news for GITC. And Carolina's struggles continue.

And the Fed Express continues. He's ahead of Tiger now.

Coming soon on May Day. But he still takes potshots at my boy. He is just envious that the writers love my boy. Ok. You win your match. We win ours then we talk. Deal?

Futbol update: Man U chasing Chelsea. Plus, I wonder what African officials would do if they were shot at by militants like the Togolese endured.

Video links. Grammy winners all.

Kings of Leon:


Taylor Swift:

Who are my All-Star Reseves

Well, like I promised last time, here are my All-Star reserves...

Picking the reserves will be this simple: 7 players will be selected, with 5 position players (2 guards, 2 forwards and a center) and 2 wildcards. You can be creative with the position designates (but it has to be feasible).

So who are they:

East: Starters (Iverson, Wade, James, Garnett, Howard)

Guards: Rajon Rondo and Joe Johnson. I really believe Rajon will be one who could pull off a quad-double. Joe Johnson has been Mr. Consistent for the Hawks.

Forwards: Gerald Wallace and Paul Pierce. Crash has earned his spot, with Charlotte in the inside track of the playoff chase. John approves of Paul Pierce getting in.

Center: Chris Bosh. If KG decides to rest instead of playing in Dallas, the Texan native is the odds-on favorite to replace him in the starting 5.

Wildcards: Josh Smith and Mo Williams. J-Smooth really improved and deserves a selection. Yes, Mo Will is going to be out, but he deserves selection as Lebron's #2. Then you can replace him with a big man (considering the team only has 2 center-eligibles).

Missin' the cut: Derrick Rose, Antawn Jamison, David Lee, Andrew Bogut, Ray Allen, Joakim Noah, Al Horford, Jamal Crawford, Stephen Jackson, Danny Granger

West: Starters (Nash, Bryant, Anthony, Duncan, Stoudemire)

Guards: Chris Paul and Deron Williams. Finally, both guards Atlanta eschewed to get Marvin Williams are in the weekend spectacle simultaneously.

Forwards: Kevin Durant and Dirk Nowitzki. Easiest position to select, because these two are slam dunk selections. Dirk as a hometown choice, and because we cannot ignore the Durantula anymore.

Center: Zach Randolph. Who knew? A trade afterthought actually panning out for the Grizzlies. One game out of 4th place in the West. Yes, Memphis.

Wildcards: Brandon Roy and Pau Gasol. Two really great players with injury issues. Their team's record speaks for themselves (especially Portland, whose MVP is their training and medical staff)

Missin' the Cut: Chris Kaman, Chauncey Billups, Jason Kidd, Carlos Boozer, Monta Ellis, Tyreke Evans, LaMarcus Aldridge, Aaron Brooks, Carl Landry

Interesting to note that 15 of 16 playoff teams (if it started today, have at least one representative) Bulls have no representative in the ASG, based on my choices.

Now what are your choices, then? Have a hack at it.

***

Meanwhile, the league has given the length of the suspension to both Javaris and Gilbert. What's the next move? Thinking about the scenario now, Will the new ownership eat the worst contract in the NBA? Because who in their right mind will trade for Gilbert? If the buyout happens, this would be another piece of an interesting offseason to come. Your move, Ernie. For Javaris, he really needs a change of scenery.  Would have liked his hometown team (Atlanta) to take a chance, but they are loaded in the backcourt (unless Joe Johnson leaves).

Blog Outsourcing - 1/25/10

Welcome to the last Monday of January. Has it been that fast already that it is almost February? Yes, time flies fast when you want it to be.

I am happy with how things are going with regards to Haiti relief. Apparently, people have learned from the Katrina experience and decided to ensure help is on the way. I presume you all watched the telethon a few days ago. Efforts are still ongoing. The islands lost a few lives there, but help is on the way. It's not much, but we know the feeling, so we know what is needed.



Hope you enjoy the tunes in this playlist.

As such, here are the links:

And the Saints go marching in.

Redemption for a kicker. In a year where kicker's gaffes are the norm.

Drew Brees is awesome.

Hoping we do NOT have another Rachel Nichols stalking moment with Favre.

Another new chapter to the Purple Fail. And that does not include the Prince ode to the Purple and Gold.

Meanwhile, Kwsn prevails over Patphish. Come to think of it, Kwsn will win in the Super Bowl whether Colts or Saints win. Will probably relish a Brees vs Painter match-up, no matter how unlikely that happens.

And so, we will miss his loquaciousness.

Ok, better honorary captain: Edge or Deuce?

Here is a way-too-early preview of the Super Bowl.

This is for Jen and all feminists everywhere.

There was an obliteration in MSG and revenge 4 years too late?

Not much news, but all eyes after all were in Indy and Nawlins.

Before I go, get well soon to the Hawaiian Punch.

Video fest: The Saints are coming!


Time to stand up and get crunk!

Blog Outsourcing 1/18

Happy Martin Luther King Day to you! Today is an important day on American soil. I am sure you have you moments, to which you can freely share here. Maybe Cycledan or Cabbage or Patphish can share first-person anecdotes, eh?

But seriously, I am sure the best way to honor him is to serve the human person. Serve those who need it more than you. I appreciate all the help you guys pitched in when my fellow countrymen were in need late last year. I am sure those affected value your assistance in any way possible.

Now, a country needs your help. Go out and make a difference. It will be hard to expect you going to Port-au-Prince, but there are other ways.

Network for Good. Google. You know what to do.

Now link-love time...

Favre Favre Favre Favre. Favre Favre Favre.....

Whining about running up the score was a college thing? Keith Brooking can't handle the truth.

Good news for Wade Phillips fans. I wonder how many are there...

Obligatory J-E-T-S! JETS! JETS! JETS! link coming up. Patphish entering comments in 3... 2.... 1...

Mark Sanchez's dad does make a difference.

Quo Vadis, LT?

Take your time, Kurt.

It has been an ugly year for kickers. At least good news for someone Sparty likes.

Early NFC Super Bowl play-in preview. Here is the AFC Super Bowl play-in.

RIP Gaines Adams. Unfortunately, you cannot escape the bust clause. Bears can't get a break as well.

Status quo with ChiSox? Dodgers, too.

Could it be Roid Rage for Jose Offerman? Umpires scared off....

Jerry Stackhouse is back. However, John might want to give up his knee for Paul Pierce to use.

Futbol update: Bad news for Sam's Army.

Sundiata...

Video-love:
Just fit for today.


Pardon because it is done in the native tongue of my motherland, but it is a message that we, as a nation want to express and send to the Haitian nation.

Blog Outsourcing 1/4

I hope you had a blessed New Year weekend. It's back to normalcy. It's back to work. It's back to the dullness. Back to the lemming syndrome most of the world has to deal with. I myself will be at the office tonight (today for you guys)

So how can you cure that? Here are some good ideas.

1. Volunteer.  There are good organizations out there that would benefit well from what you do best. You can even donate. The world would be a better place. Whether donating cash or spending time or even donating blood.
2. Exercise. Do I have to explain after eating a roasted pig, pizza, pasta and ham during the past two weeks?
3. Partake of Local Culture.  Of course, there's more to learn about your own.

As such, since Fantasy Football season is now officially over for the regular season, are we going to have a Playoff pick 'em or challenge? I wish I could be competitive there.

Btw, NFL Films says these games were the best of the 2009 regular season: Pittsburgh - Minnesota (Favre's first loss this season), Indianapolis - New England (4th and 2), Detroit - Cleveland (Stafford game winner), New Orleans - Washington (Suisham miss), Green Bay - Pittsburgh (Mike Wallace and 60 minutes)

Fantasy Update:

S&F League: Sparty wins over JDS, 165-140. Favre and Long finishes 3rd, 175-145. I win my matchup, 165-133.
M&F League: Patphish wins a close one over Sae, 185-181. Mikey whooped GITC, 157-97. I merely tied TONS at 161.
Pick 'Em: Tila Tequila Ate My Balls wins by 2 over Futbol Pick.... Just happy to finish 8th, because someone forgot to put his picks in *ahem*Big D*ahem*
Eliminator: I ended like the Indianapolis Colts, missing on my last two picks (Thanks, Tampa Bay and Cleveland). However, Rek was able to fish a tie with 15. He actually had the chance to end up with a higher score, but he would blame Brandon Marshall and Josh McDaniels.
Bowl Mania: Let's put it this way: the highest Max score belongs to C. Hirsch with 381. Patphish is close with 377. Johnny has 375. Kwsn and Jen also have a higher Max Score than the current leader.
Time to do the link love:

Just like last week the Manning Family lost. Archie's Saints, Peyton's Colts, and Eli's Giants.

Goodell thinks tanking is not good, so he is looking for a solution.

Giants Stadium gets a proper farewell.

At least, the Boy named Suh won't have to move far from the fields of Lincoln. The St. Louis Rams are now on the clock.

Perfect symmetry: Broncos start 6-0, finish 8-8. Titans start 0-6, finish 8-8. And they both have 2k rushers in their franchise history.

He might be the next victim of the Madden Curse.

By the way, today is Black Monday. We already know a dead man walking. But one is safe (Houston), another looks safe (Carolina) and another might have an argument (Cleveland).  And of course, there is that chin being sneaky.

This Bill Polian's argument for what they did. Julian Edelman better get ready to catch a lot of balls.

You would think he would be signed by the Hoodie for next year.

We here gets lots of cases regarding firecrackers. Never knew it could happen on your side of coast.

A scathing criticism of the handling by the WWWL on the Texas Tech crisis. By the way, they should be rehiring McNeill ala the Bill Stewart route and consider what the Texas Tech administration are doing as window dressing.

GatorTrey must be loving this. Oh, and Pat White's ok. You can breathe now. I just want to commend the sportsmanship of the Steelers during that whole process. But you're losing an awesome corner.

Unfortunately, it was not because of a punch to the throat.

Why so serious, Gilbert? Oh, and his Twitter is a must-read the way the Starbury videostream was a must-see.

Are you ready for the Monday Night Wars (Redux)?

A crushed throat will not deter him. Kudos to the Senior Bowl peeps.

The punishment may be just, but the postseason ban might be too much and it is unfair to the student-athlete.

He brings in the money when he boxes, but he does not when he acts. You get the idea? (UPDATE: this contains updated numbers) Just for your reference: PhP 46.03 = $1.

The idea is nice, kudos to Wake and Xavier.

And I still believe they will get it on. Too much riding on it.

Futbol update: Man U gets ejected from the FA Cup.

Video time:

Dedicated to WildCard Weekend (Because all games will be rematches, 3 of them from yesterday)