Friday, April 30, 2010
Phils place Madson on DL
The Phillies have placed Ryan Madson on the disabled list with a broken right big toe and brought back Antonio Bastardo from Lehigh Valley. Bastardo was originally sent down to make room for Brad Lidge.
Evans headlines NBA All-Rookie Team; Sixers' Holiday receives a few votes
Tyreke Evans of the Sacramento Kings, Brandon Jennings of the Milwaukee Bucks and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors were unanimous selections to the 2009-10 T-Mobile NBA All-Rookie First Team, the NBA announced today.
Rounding out the T-Mobile NBA All-Rookie First Team are New Orleans’ Darren Collison (46 points) and Chicago’s Taj Gibson (41 points).
The 2009-10 T-Mobile Rookie of the Year, Evans averaged a rookie- and team-leading 20.1 points, as well as a team-high 5.8 assists (2nd among rookies) and 5.3 rebounds. Evans joined Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James as the only players in NBA history to average at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists in their rookie seasons. Among rookies, Evans also was first in minutes (37.2 mpg) and second in steals (1.51 spg), while leading in free throws made (348) and attempted (465).
Jennings, a four time T-Mobile Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month selection (October/November, December, January, March) ranked third among rookies in scoring (15.5 ppg), assists (5.7 apg) and steals 1.28. Jennings announced his presence as a top rookie early on, rattling off a 55-point game on Nov. 14 vs. Golden State.
Curry, a three time T-Mobile Western Conference Rookie of the Month selection (January, March, April) ranked second among rookies in scoring (17.5 ppg) and finished first in assists (5.9 apg), steals (1.9 spg), minutes (37.2), free throw percentage (.885) and three-point percentage (.437). Curry’s 166 three-pointers made led all rookies.
Collison provided steady point guard play for the Hornets in place of injured incumbent Chris Paul, ranking among the top 10 for rookies in scoring (sixth – 12.4 ppg), assists (T-third – 5.7 apg) and steals (sixth – 1.03 spg). Collison was named the T-Mobile Western Conference Rookie of the Month for February.
Gibson gave the Bulls a frontcourt boost, leading all rookies in rebounding (7.5 rpg) and field goal percentage (.494), while placing second in blocks (1.27 bpg). The durable Gibson, who averaged 9.0 points in his first season, appeared in all 82 games for the Bulls, making 70 starts.
The T-Mobile NBA All-Rookie Second Team consists of New Orleans’ Marcus Thornton (31 points), San Antonio’s DeJuan Blair (30 points), Oklahoma City’s James Harden (22 points), Minnesota’s Jonny Flynn (22 points) and Detroit’s Jonas Jerebko (22 points).
The voting panel consisted of the NBA’s 30 head coaches, who were asked to select five players for the first team and five players for the second team, regardless of position. Coaches were not permitted to vote for players on their own team. Two points were awarded for first team votes and one for second team votes.
2009-10 T-MOBILE NBA ALL-ROOKIE FIRST TEAM
Player Team First (2 pt) Second (1 Pt) Total
Tyreke Evans Sacramento 29 - 58
Brandon Jennings Milwaukee 29 - 58
Stephen Curry Golden State 29 - 58
Darren Collison New Orleans 20 6 46
Taj Gibson Chicago 15 11 41
2009-10 T-MOBILE NBA ALL-ROOKIE SECOND TEAM
Player Team First (2 pt) Second (1 Pt) Total
Marcus Thornton New Orleans 6 19 31
DeJuan Blair San Antonio 6 18 30
James Harden Oklahoma City 4 14 22
Jonny Flynn Minnesota 4 14 22
Jonas Jerebko Detroit 2 18 22
Other players receiving votes, with point totals (first place votes in parentheses):
Wesley Matthews, Utah, 16 (3); Omri Casspi, Sacramento, 13; Chase Budinger, Houston, 8; Ty Lawson, Denver, 7; Jrue Holiday, Philadelphia, 7 (1); Serge Ibaka, Oklahoma City, 6 (1); Toney Douglas, New York, 2 (1); Rodrigue Beaubois, Dallas, 1; Sam Young, Memphis, 1; DeMar, DeRozan, 1.
Sixers coaching search heats up
Sixers officials will meet with former Dallas head coach Avery Johnson on Monday, a source told the Philadelphia Daily News.
Johnson is working as an NBA analyst for ESPN and has had preliminary talks with the New Orleans Hornets about their head-coaching vacancy, according to the Times-Picayune.
The Sixers also contacted John Langel, the agent and attorney for Doug Collins and are beleived to be interested in Mavericks assistant Dwane Casey, Boston Celtics associate coach Tom Thibodeau, San Antonio Spurs assistant Mike Budenholzer, former Toronto Raptors coach Sam Mitchell and NBA television analysts Jeff Van Gundy and Mike Fratello.
Larry Brown is also an option to return to the team in a front office role.
Johnson is working as an NBA analyst for ESPN and has had preliminary talks with the New Orleans Hornets about their head-coaching vacancy, according to the Times-Picayune.
The Sixers also contacted John Langel, the agent and attorney for Doug Collins and are beleived to be interested in Mavericks assistant Dwane Casey, Boston Celtics associate coach Tom Thibodeau, San Antonio Spurs assistant Mike Budenholzer, former Toronto Raptors coach Sam Mitchell and NBA television analysts Jeff Van Gundy and Mike Fratello.
Larry Brown is also an option to return to the team in a front office role.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Flyers-Bruins playoff history
Although the Flyers and Bruins have existed in the same conference (Wales/Eastern) since the 1981-82 season, they have not met in the postseason since 1978.
In fact, the teams met four times in a five-year span in the playoffs during the 1970s, with each club winning two series.
Philly won the 1974 Stanley Cup Finals over Boston in a tremendous upset, 4 games to 2, then took the 1976 Semifinals 4 games to 1 -- with Reggie Leach memorably shaking off a hangover to score five times in the clinching 6-3 Game 5 victory at the Spectrum.
However, Boston got its revenge in the next two series, advancing to the Cup Finals in both 1977 and 1978 by trampling the Orange and Black. The former series was a four-game sweep, while in the latter the B's let the Flyers take one game. Both times the Bruins lost to Montreal in the Finals.
In fact, the teams met four times in a five-year span in the playoffs during the 1970s, with each club winning two series.
Philly won the 1974 Stanley Cup Finals over Boston in a tremendous upset, 4 games to 2, then took the 1976 Semifinals 4 games to 1 -- with Reggie Leach memorably shaking off a hangover to score five times in the clinching 6-3 Game 5 victory at the Spectrum.
However, Boston got its revenge in the next two series, advancing to the Cup Finals in both 1977 and 1978 by trampling the Orange and Black. The former series was a four-game sweep, while in the latter the B's let the Flyers take one game. Both times the Bruins lost to Montreal in the Finals.
Chester's Tyreke Evans is NBA's Rookie of the Year
Tyreke Evans of the Sacramento Kings is the recipient of the Eddie Gottlieb Trophy as the 2009-10 T-Mobile NBA Rookie of the Year, the NBA announced today.
Evans received 67 first-place votes (491 points) from a panel of 123 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada. Golden State’s Stephen Curry finished second with 391 points and Milwaukee’s Brandon Jennings finished third with 204 points. Players were awarded five points for each first-place vote, three points for each second-place vote and one point for each third-place vote.
Selected with the fourth overall pick in the NBA Draft 2009, Evans averaged a rookie-and team-leading 20.1 points, as well as a team-high 5.8 assists (2nd among rookies) and 5.3 rebounds. Evans joined Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James as the only players in NBA history to average at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists in their rookie seasons. Among rookies, Evans also was first in minutes (37.2 mpg) and second in steals (1.51 spg), while leading in free throws made (348) and attempted (465).
A two-time T-Mobile Western Conference Rookie of the Month selection (October/November and December), Evans scored 20 or more points in 41 games this season, tops among rookies and the most 20-point games by a rookie in the Sacramento era. The 6-6 guard had a seven-game streak (Nov. 7-23) of scoring 20 or more points, tying him with Lionel Simmons for the most consecutive 20-point games by a rookie in the Sacramento era. Evans was named the MVP of the 2010 T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam on Feb. 12, at NBA All-Star in Dallas, recording 26 points, six rebounds, five assists, and five steals in leading the Rookies to a 140-128 win. On March 10 vs. Toronto, Evans became the first Sacramento-era rookie to record a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Building upon its already strong appeal to the nation’s youth and as Official Partner of the NBA, T-Mobile is showcasing the NBA’s youngest players -- the Rookies -- through the T-Mobile Rookie Program. Highlights include rookie awards presentations such as the T-Mobile Rookies of the Month and T-Mobile Rookie of the Year, and the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam, an All-Star competition between NBA rookies and second-year players. During NBA All-Star 2010, T-Mobile and the NBA hosted more than 3,500 students from the Dallas Independent School District to watch the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam from the best seats in the house at American Airlines Center on Friday, February 12.
The Eddie Gottlieb Trophy is named in honor of Eddie Gottlieb, one of the NBA’s founders who coached the Philadelphia Warriors to the NBA championship in 1946-47.
Attached are the voting results for the 2009-10 T-Mobile NBA Rookie of the Year Award and the all-time list of winners:
2009-10 T-MOBILE NBA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARD VOTING RESULTS
Rookie, Team 1st 2nd 3rd Total
Tyreke Evans, Sacramento 67 50 6 491
Stephen Curry, Golden State 43 50 26 391
Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee 12 22 78 204
Darren Collison, New Orleans 1 1 9 17
Jonny Flynn, Minnesota - - 2 2
Taj Gibson. Chicago - - 2 2
ALL-TIME T-MOBILE NBA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS
1952-53 - Don Meineke, Fort Wayne
1953-54 - Ray Felix, Baltimore
1954-55 - Bob Pettit, Milwaukee
1955-56 - Maurice Stokes, Rochester
1956-57 - Tom Heinsohn, Boston
1957-58 - Woody Sauldsberry, Philadelphia
1958-59 - Elgin Baylor, Minneapolis
1959-60 - Wilt Chamberlain, Philadelphia
1960-61 - Oscar Robertson, Cincinnati
1961-62 - Walt Bellamy, Chicago
1962-63 - Terry Dischinger, Chicago
1963-64 - Jerry Lucas, Cincinnati
1964-65 - Willis Reed, New York
1965-66 - Rick Barry, San Francisco
1966-67 - Dave Bing, Detroit
1967-68 - Earl Monroe, Baltimore
1968-69 - Wes Unseld, Baltimore
1969-70 - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Milwaukee
1970-71 - Dave Cowens, Boston (tie)
- Geoff Petrie, Portland (tie)
1971-72 - Sidney Wicks, Portland
1972-73 - Bob McAdoo, Buffalo
1973-74 - Ernie DiGregorio, Buffalo
1974-75 - Keith Wilkes, Golden State
1975-76 - Alvan Adams, Phoenix
1976-77 - Adrian Dantley, Buffalo
1977-78 - Walter Davis, Phoenix
1978-79 - Phil Ford, Kansas City
1979-80 - Larry Bird, Boston
1980-81 - Darrell Griffith, Utah
1981-82 - Buck Williams, New Jersey
1982-83 - Terry Cummings, San Diego
1983-84 - Ralph Sampson, Houston
1984-85 - Michael Jordan, Chicago
1985-86 - Patrick Ewing, New York
1986-87 - Chuck Person, Indiana
1987-88 - Mark Jackson, New York
1988-89 - Mitch Richmond, Golden State
1989-90 - David Robinson, San Antonio
1990-91 - Derrick Coleman, New Jersey
1991-92 - Larry Johnson, Charlotte
1992-93 - Shaquille O'Neal, Orlando
1993-94 - Chris Webber, Golden State
1994-95 - Grant Hill, Detroit (tie)
- Jason Kidd, Dallas (tie)
1995-96 - Damon Stoudamire, Toronto
1996-97 - Allen Iverson, Philadelphia
1997-98 - Tim Duncan, San Antonio
1998-99 - Vince Carter, Toronto
1999-00 - Elton Brand, Chicago (tie)
- Steve Francis, Houston (tie)
2000-01 - Mike Miller, Orlando
2001-02 - Pau Gasol, Memphis
2002-03 - Amar'e Stoudemire, Phoenix
2003-04 - LeBron James, Cleveland
2004-05 - Emeka Okafor, Charlotte
2005-06 - Chris Paul, New Orleans/Okla. City
2006-07 - Brandon Roy, Portland
2007-08 - Kevin Durant, Seattle
2008-09 -Derrick Rose, Chicago
2009-10 –Tyreke Evans, Sacramento
Evans received 67 first-place votes (491 points) from a panel of 123 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada. Golden State’s Stephen Curry finished second with 391 points and Milwaukee’s Brandon Jennings finished third with 204 points. Players were awarded five points for each first-place vote, three points for each second-place vote and one point for each third-place vote.
Selected with the fourth overall pick in the NBA Draft 2009, Evans averaged a rookie-and team-leading 20.1 points, as well as a team-high 5.8 assists (2nd among rookies) and 5.3 rebounds. Evans joined Oscar Robertson, Michael Jordan, and LeBron James as the only players in NBA history to average at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists in their rookie seasons. Among rookies, Evans also was first in minutes (37.2 mpg) and second in steals (1.51 spg), while leading in free throws made (348) and attempted (465).
A two-time T-Mobile Western Conference Rookie of the Month selection (October/November and December), Evans scored 20 or more points in 41 games this season, tops among rookies and the most 20-point games by a rookie in the Sacramento era. The 6-6 guard had a seven-game streak (Nov. 7-23) of scoring 20 or more points, tying him with Lionel Simmons for the most consecutive 20-point games by a rookie in the Sacramento era. Evans was named the MVP of the 2010 T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam on Feb. 12, at NBA All-Star in Dallas, recording 26 points, six rebounds, five assists, and five steals in leading the Rookies to a 140-128 win. On March 10 vs. Toronto, Evans became the first Sacramento-era rookie to record a triple-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Building upon its already strong appeal to the nation’s youth and as Official Partner of the NBA, T-Mobile is showcasing the NBA’s youngest players -- the Rookies -- through the T-Mobile Rookie Program. Highlights include rookie awards presentations such as the T-Mobile Rookies of the Month and T-Mobile Rookie of the Year, and the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam, an All-Star competition between NBA rookies and second-year players. During NBA All-Star 2010, T-Mobile and the NBA hosted more than 3,500 students from the Dallas Independent School District to watch the T-Mobile Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam from the best seats in the house at American Airlines Center on Friday, February 12.
The Eddie Gottlieb Trophy is named in honor of Eddie Gottlieb, one of the NBA’s founders who coached the Philadelphia Warriors to the NBA championship in 1946-47.
Attached are the voting results for the 2009-10 T-Mobile NBA Rookie of the Year Award and the all-time list of winners:
2009-10 T-MOBILE NBA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARD VOTING RESULTS
Rookie, Team 1st 2nd 3rd Total
Tyreke Evans, Sacramento 67 50 6 491
Stephen Curry, Golden State 43 50 26 391
Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee 12 22 78 204
Darren Collison, New Orleans 1 1 9 17
Jonny Flynn, Minnesota - - 2 2
Taj Gibson. Chicago - - 2 2
ALL-TIME T-MOBILE NBA ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS
1952-53 - Don Meineke, Fort Wayne
1953-54 - Ray Felix, Baltimore
1954-55 - Bob Pettit, Milwaukee
1955-56 - Maurice Stokes, Rochester
1956-57 - Tom Heinsohn, Boston
1957-58 - Woody Sauldsberry, Philadelphia
1958-59 - Elgin Baylor, Minneapolis
1959-60 - Wilt Chamberlain, Philadelphia
1960-61 - Oscar Robertson, Cincinnati
1961-62 - Walt Bellamy, Chicago
1962-63 - Terry Dischinger, Chicago
1963-64 - Jerry Lucas, Cincinnati
1964-65 - Willis Reed, New York
1965-66 - Rick Barry, San Francisco
1966-67 - Dave Bing, Detroit
1967-68 - Earl Monroe, Baltimore
1968-69 - Wes Unseld, Baltimore
1969-70 - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Milwaukee
1970-71 - Dave Cowens, Boston (tie)
- Geoff Petrie, Portland (tie)
1971-72 - Sidney Wicks, Portland
1972-73 - Bob McAdoo, Buffalo
1973-74 - Ernie DiGregorio, Buffalo
1974-75 - Keith Wilkes, Golden State
1975-76 - Alvan Adams, Phoenix
1976-77 - Adrian Dantley, Buffalo
1977-78 - Walter Davis, Phoenix
1978-79 - Phil Ford, Kansas City
1979-80 - Larry Bird, Boston
1980-81 - Darrell Griffith, Utah
1981-82 - Buck Williams, New Jersey
1982-83 - Terry Cummings, San Diego
1983-84 - Ralph Sampson, Houston
1984-85 - Michael Jordan, Chicago
1985-86 - Patrick Ewing, New York
1986-87 - Chuck Person, Indiana
1987-88 - Mark Jackson, New York
1988-89 - Mitch Richmond, Golden State
1989-90 - David Robinson, San Antonio
1990-91 - Derrick Coleman, New Jersey
1991-92 - Larry Johnson, Charlotte
1992-93 - Shaquille O'Neal, Orlando
1993-94 - Chris Webber, Golden State
1994-95 - Grant Hill, Detroit (tie)
- Jason Kidd, Dallas (tie)
1995-96 - Damon Stoudamire, Toronto
1996-97 - Allen Iverson, Philadelphia
1997-98 - Tim Duncan, San Antonio
1998-99 - Vince Carter, Toronto
1999-00 - Elton Brand, Chicago (tie)
- Steve Francis, Houston (tie)
2000-01 - Mike Miller, Orlando
2001-02 - Pau Gasol, Memphis
2002-03 - Amar'e Stoudemire, Phoenix
2003-04 - LeBron James, Cleveland
2004-05 - Emeka Okafor, Charlotte
2005-06 - Chris Paul, New Orleans/Okla. City
2006-07 - Brandon Roy, Portland
2007-08 - Kevin Durant, Seattle
2008-09 -Derrick Rose, Chicago
2009-10 –Tyreke Evans, Sacramento
Kolb signs extension
The Eagles and their new starting quarterback Kevin Kolb have come to an agreement on a 1-year contract extension.
According to the Scout.com, Kolb's new deal will include roughly $12.26 million in guaranteed money. Kolb’s contract was set to expire at the end of the 2010 campaign.
“We’re happy to have Kevin under contract for the next two seasons,” said head coach Andy Reid. “When given the chance, Kevin has proven to have good command of this offense and we’re looking forward to having him operate as the number one quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles.”
A second round draft choice of the Eagles in 2007, Kolb spent the first three years of his career behind Donovan McNabb. When McNabb was injured in the season opener last year at Carolina, Kolb stepped into the starting lineup and became the first quarterback in NFL history to pass for 300 yards in his first two NFL starts. He threw for 391 yards vs. New Orleans on 9/20/08 and 327 yards a week later vs. Kansas City. In fact, the 25-year-old Kolb earned NFC Offensive player of the week honors for his performance against the Chiefs.
“We’re excited about what we’ve seen from Kevin during his three seasons in Philadelphia both on and off the field," said GM Howie Roseman. "We’re happy to get this contract in place for the near future and are looking forward to keeping Kevin in Philadelphia for many more years to come.”
“I’d like to thank Kevin and his agent Jeff Nalley for their work in getting this contract signed," added team president Joe Banner. "We’re very happy with Kevin and all the attributes he brings to this organization and we’re pleased to sign another young, ascending player to a contract. It’s something that this organization has prioritized over the last several years.”
According to the Scout.com, Kolb's new deal will include roughly $12.26 million in guaranteed money. Kolb’s contract was set to expire at the end of the 2010 campaign.
“We’re happy to have Kevin under contract for the next two seasons,” said head coach Andy Reid. “When given the chance, Kevin has proven to have good command of this offense and we’re looking forward to having him operate as the number one quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles.”
A second round draft choice of the Eagles in 2007, Kolb spent the first three years of his career behind Donovan McNabb. When McNabb was injured in the season opener last year at Carolina, Kolb stepped into the starting lineup and became the first quarterback in NFL history to pass for 300 yards in his first two NFL starts. He threw for 391 yards vs. New Orleans on 9/20/08 and 327 yards a week later vs. Kansas City. In fact, the 25-year-old Kolb earned NFC Offensive player of the week honors for his performance against the Chiefs.
“We’re excited about what we’ve seen from Kevin during his three seasons in Philadelphia both on and off the field," said GM Howie Roseman. "We’re happy to get this contract in place for the near future and are looking forward to keeping Kevin in Philadelphia for many more years to come.”
“I’d like to thank Kevin and his agent Jeff Nalley for their work in getting this contract signed," added team president Joe Banner. "We’re very happy with Kevin and all the attributes he brings to this organization and we’re pleased to sign another young, ascending player to a contract. It’s something that this organization has prioritized over the last several years.”
Sixers Draft Lottery possibilities
The 2010 NBA Draft Lottery will be held May 18, 2010 and here are the Sixers could pick in spots No. 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 or 9...
Here are the odds:
No. 1 - 5.3 %
No. 2 - 6.03 %
No. 3 - 6.97 %
No. 6 - 43.99 %
No. 7 - 33.05 %
No. 8 - 4.54 %
No. 9 - 0.12 %
Here are the odds:
No. 1 - 5.3 %
No. 2 - 6.03 %
No. 3 - 6.97 %
No. 6 - 43.99 %
No. 7 - 33.05 %
No. 8 - 4.54 %
No. 9 - 0.12 %
Flyers - Bruins Eastern Conference semifinals sked
The National Hockey League has announced the schedule for the Eastern Conference Semifinals series between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Boston Bruins.
Game 1: Sat. May 1 @ Boston 12:30 p.m. NBC, TSN
Game 2: Mon. May 3 @ Boston 7 p.m. TSN,
VERSUS**
Game 3: Wed. May 5 @ Philadelphia 7 p.m. TSN, VERSUS**
Game 4: Fri. May 7 @ Philadelphia 7 p.m. TSN,
VERSUS**
*Game 5: Mon. May 10 @ Boston 7 p.m. TSN2,
VERSUS, CSN
*Game 6: Wed. May 12 @ Philadelphia TBD TSN, VERSUS,
CSN
*Game 7: Fri. May 14 @ Boston 7 p.m. TSN,
VERSUS, CSN
* If Necessary
** Versus exclusive
NBC will exclusively carry Game 1 of the series at 12:30 p.m. EST on Saturday, May 1 at Boston, while Versus will carry the remaining three National exclusive games of the series (currently marked as Games 2, 3
and 4) and Comcast SportsNet will carry all remaining local games.
The start time for Game 6, if necessary, will be announced at a later date.
Tickets to Eastern Conference Semifinals vs. Boston Bruins (Round Two) Home Games 1, 2 and 3 (if necessary) at the Wachovia Center are on sale now exclusively through ComcastTIX at philadelphiaflyers.com or by calling 1-800-298-4200
Game 1: Sat. May 1 @ Boston 12:30 p.m. NBC, TSN
Game 2: Mon. May 3 @ Boston 7 p.m. TSN,
VERSUS**
Game 3: Wed. May 5 @ Philadelphia 7 p.m. TSN, VERSUS**
Game 4: Fri. May 7 @ Philadelphia 7 p.m. TSN,
VERSUS**
*Game 5: Mon. May 10 @ Boston 7 p.m. TSN2,
VERSUS, CSN
*Game 6: Wed. May 12 @ Philadelphia TBD TSN, VERSUS,
CSN
*Game 7: Fri. May 14 @ Boston 7 p.m. TSN,
VERSUS, CSN
* If Necessary
** Versus exclusive
NBC will exclusively carry Game 1 of the series at 12:30 p.m. EST on Saturday, May 1 at Boston, while Versus will carry the remaining three National exclusive games of the series (currently marked as Games 2, 3
and 4) and Comcast SportsNet will carry all remaining local games.
The start time for Game 6, if necessary, will be announced at a later date.
Tickets to Eastern Conference Semifinals vs. Boston Bruins (Round Two) Home Games 1, 2 and 3 (if necessary) at the Wachovia Center are on sale now exclusively through ComcastTIX at philadelphiaflyers.com or by calling 1-800-298-4200
Union announce season ticket waiting list
With less than 500 season tickets remaining, Philadelphia Union have announced that the club will soon be accepting deposits for a season ticket waiting list. Major League Soccer's newest club has capped season ticket sales at 12,000 to allow the Union to have a limited number of individual game and group seats available.
"With the 12,000 season ticket cap very close, we want to give fans a clear procedure on how to get in line," said Philadelphia Union President Tom Veit. "We consulted with other MLS teams that have waiting lists to insure our fans would have a fair chance to get season tickets when and if they become available."
While most sections are already sold out, there are a small number of season tickets remaining in the Sideline, Endline, Corner and Supporter sections.
"The good news is that there truly is not a bad seat in the house, so those getting the last few season tickets will still have a great seat," Veit added.
Philadelphia Union will begin accepting $50 deposits for season ticket accounts, which can later be applied to tickets when and if they become available. Those on the waiting list will have the opportunity to select their seats in the order in which they made their payment. Once on the season ticket waiting list, prospective season ticket holders will be eligible for select offers from the team. There is a limit of six season tickets per account.
The Union begin play in PPL Park on June 27th against Seattle Sounders FC. To avoid the waiting list, you can secure your season seats today at www.philadelphiaunion.com or by calling 877-21-UNION (877-218-6466).
"With the 12,000 season ticket cap very close, we want to give fans a clear procedure on how to get in line," said Philadelphia Union President Tom Veit. "We consulted with other MLS teams that have waiting lists to insure our fans would have a fair chance to get season tickets when and if they become available."
While most sections are already sold out, there are a small number of season tickets remaining in the Sideline, Endline, Corner and Supporter sections.
"The good news is that there truly is not a bad seat in the house, so those getting the last few season tickets will still have a great seat," Veit added.
Philadelphia Union will begin accepting $50 deposits for season ticket accounts, which can later be applied to tickets when and if they become available. Those on the waiting list will have the opportunity to select their seats in the order in which they made their payment. Once on the season ticket waiting list, prospective season ticket holders will be eligible for select offers from the team. There is a limit of six season tickets per account.
The Union begin play in PPL Park on June 27th against Seattle Sounders FC. To avoid the waiting list, you can secure your season seats today at www.philadelphiaunion.com or by calling 877-21-UNION (877-218-6466).
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Eagles sign P Parrish
The Eagles have signed punter Ken Parrish to a three-year deal.
Parrish (6-1, 210) returns to the Eagles after spending training camp with the team last season. He was picked up by the New York Jets shortly after being released by Philadelphia, but did not make the team.
Originally a rookie free agent signing of the San Francisco 49ers in 2007, Parrish was a two-time first-team All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference selection at East Stroudsburg University, where he averaged 40.7 yards per punt in his four-year career.
Parrish (6-1, 210) returns to the Eagles after spending training camp with the team last season. He was picked up by the New York Jets shortly after being released by Philadelphia, but did not make the team.
Originally a rookie free agent signing of the San Francisco 49ers in 2007, Parrish was a two-time first-team All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference selection at East Stroudsburg University, where he averaged 40.7 yards per punt in his four-year career.
Flyers to start conference semifinals on Saturday
According to Anthony SanFilippo of the Delco Times, the Flyers will open up their Eastern Conference Semifinal series on Saturday, getting an afternoon game on NBC regardless of their opponent.
Should the Washington Capitals top Montreal in tonight's Game 7 in D.C,. it will be Game 1 at Verizon Center in America's capital. If the Canadiens win, the Orange and Black head to TD Garden in Boston.
Should the Washington Capitals top Montreal in tonight's Game 7 in D.C,. it will be Game 1 at Verizon Center in America's capital. If the Canadiens win, the Orange and Black head to TD Garden in Boston.
Union Drop U.S. Open Cup Qualifier 2-1 to New York Red Bulls
Harrison, N.J. (April 27, 2010) – Just three days after Philadelphia dropped a League match 2-1 to New York, the Union suffered another 2-1 defeat at Red Bull Arena in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup qualifying round, eliminating the Union from the tournament. Connor Ching scored both of New York’s goals, with Sebastien Le Toux netting Philadelphia’s only tally before being carried off the field on a stretcher.
New York nearly struck first on a one-touch shot by Siniso Ubiparipovic in the penalty area, but Shea Salinas deflected the point blank attempt. In the 16th minute, Conor Chinn made up for the missed attempt, putting the home side up 1-0 by tapping in a deflected shot that sat perfectly at his feet near the edge of the six-yard box.
New York consistently created more chances in the first half, converting again in the 41st minute on Chinn’s second tally of the night. Luke Sassano’s cross from the left wing found Chinn darting into the box, and the striker deflected the ball past goalkeeper Chris Seitz into the lower right corner of the net.
The second half began much like the first half started, with Chinn nearly registering a hat trick in the 55th minute. A timely deflection from Seitz just before Chinn could get a foot on Sinisa Ubiparipovic’s cross in front of the goal kept the Union in the match.
After coming on as a second half sub, Le Toux ignited the Union’s offense. In the 68th minute, a cross from Cristian Arrieta along the right flank found a streaking Le Toux, who got just enough of the ball to beat goalkeeper Greg Sutton to bring Philadelphia within a goal at 2-1.
Le Toux was unable to finish the match, however, after coming off with an injury late in the second half. Having made all four subs already, the Union were forced to play the remainder of the match down a man.
The disadvantage would prove costly, with Philadelphia unable to equalize despite pressuring New York often during the final minutes. The club’s best chance to draw even came mid-way through extra time, but Alejandro Moreno’s toe-poke from the penalty spot went just wide right.
The Union will look to get back on track after their third straight loss when they take on the LA Galaxy on Saturday night at the Home Depot Center. The game can be seen on the Live Well HD Network at 10:30 p.m.
Scoring Summary:
NY – Conor Chinn (Unassisted) 16
NY – Conon Chinn (Luke Sassano, Sinisa Ubiparipovic) 41
PHI – Sebastien Le Toux (Cristian Arrieta) 68
Philadelphia Union (1-3-0) -- Chris Seitz; Shea Salinas, Michael Orozco, Danny Califf (C), Toni Stahl (Cristian Arrieta 45); Roger Torres (Alejandro Moreno 45), Andrew Jacobson, Amobi Okugo, Nick Zimmerman (Stefani Miglioranzi 45); Danny Mwanga, Jack McInerney (Sebastien Le Toux) 64
Substitutes Not Used: Fred, Jordan Harvey, Brad Knighton
TOTAL SHOTS: 9; SHOTS ON GOAL: 6; FOULS: 8; OFFSIDES: 5; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 5
New York Red Bulls (4-1-0) –- Greg Sutton; Luke Sassano, Carlos Mendes (Chris Albright 45), Andrew Boyens, Danleigh Borman; Siniso Ubiparipovic (Irving Garcia 83), Seth Stammler (C), Tony Tchani, Brian Nielsen (Austin da Luz 58); Juan Agudelo, Conor Chinn
Substitutes Not Used: Bouna Coundoul, Tim Ream
TOTAL SHOTS: 18; SHOTS ON GOAL: 8; FOULS: 10; OFFSIDES: 4; CORNER KICKS: 4; SAVES: 5
Misconduct Summary:
PHI – Andrew Jacobson (Caution, Hard Tackle) 31
NY – Danleigh Borman (Caution, Hard Tackle) 66
PHI – Stefani Miglioranzi (Caution, Hard Tackle) 76
NY – Andrew Boyens (Caution, Hard Tackle) 81
Referee: Andrew Chapin
Referee's Assistants: Brian Dunn, Edwin Cespedes
4th Official: Mark Geiger
Attendance: 3,015
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Laperriere most likely lost for remainder of playoffs
by Bob Herpen
The Phanatic Magazine
Philadelphia Flyers forward Ian Laperriere will most likely be lost for the remainder of the playoffs, the club announced late Tuesday.
Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren revealed that Laperriere, who was spared surgery despite having a puck strike the bone above his right eye in last Thursday's Game 5 win over the Devils, did suffer a contusion of the brain and a mild concussion as a result of absorbing the shot.
Laperriere was seen by doctors in Philadelphia on Monday and was also examined earlier Tuesday by Dr. Joseph Maroon, chief neurosurgeon at the University of Pittsburgh.
"I think this is significant. They saw a spot right there (on his brain) initially, and I think they were hoping, like we all were, that it would dissipate a little bit," Holmgren said. "Right now, it's not safe for him to play. It's hard to replace Ian and what he does, particularly on the penalty kill. He's a heart-and-soul guy on our team."
Laperriere played in all 82 games this past regular-season, posting three goals and 20 points. He picked up one assist in the club's recently-completed five-game triumph over New Jersey in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.
The Flyers await the winner of Wednesday's Game 7 between Washington and Montreal, which will decide who they will face in the Eastern semifinals.
The Phanatic Magazine
Philadelphia Flyers forward Ian Laperriere will most likely be lost for the remainder of the playoffs, the club announced late Tuesday.
Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren revealed that Laperriere, who was spared surgery despite having a puck strike the bone above his right eye in last Thursday's Game 5 win over the Devils, did suffer a contusion of the brain and a mild concussion as a result of absorbing the shot.
Laperriere was seen by doctors in Philadelphia on Monday and was also examined earlier Tuesday by Dr. Joseph Maroon, chief neurosurgeon at the University of Pittsburgh.
"I think this is significant. They saw a spot right there (on his brain) initially, and I think they were hoping, like we all were, that it would dissipate a little bit," Holmgren said. "Right now, it's not safe for him to play. It's hard to replace Ian and what he does, particularly on the penalty kill. He's a heart-and-soul guy on our team."
Laperriere played in all 82 games this past regular-season, posting three goals and 20 points. He picked up one assist in the club's recently-completed five-game triumph over New Jersey in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals.
The Flyers await the winner of Wednesday's Game 7 between Washington and Montreal, which will decide who they will face in the Eastern semifinals.
Eagles' Bradley cleared to practice
Eagles middle linebacker Stewart Bradley, who missed all of last season with a torn ACL, has been cleared to practice and will take place in the team's minicamp starting this Friday.
"I'm coming along great, and in fact I was just cleared by the doctors to practice this weekend," Bradley told the Eagles website. "I am really excited to get back on the field. I don't think I will have any limitations."
"I'm coming along great, and in fact I was just cleared by the doctors to practice this weekend," Bradley told the Eagles website. "I am really excited to get back on the field. I don't think I will have any limitations."
Jordan to interview with Rutgers this week
SNY.TV is reporting that former Sixers coach Eddie Jordan will interview this week at Rutgers.
Union U.S. Open Cup qualifying match to stream live
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup qualifying match between Philadelphia Union and the New York Red Bulls (8:00pm ET) will be streamed live, the club announced today.
The Red Bulls will be providing a live stream from Red Bull Arena and fans can access the stream by going to http://nytv.neulion.com/mlsvp/ and clicking on the 'MLS Live' tab at 7:55pm.
Steve Cangialosi will handle the play-by-play, with Shep Messing providing color commentary.
The Red Bulls will be providing a live stream from Red Bull Arena and fans can access the stream by going to http://nytv.neulion.com/mlsvp/ and clicking on the 'MLS Live' tab at 7:55pm.
Steve Cangialosi will handle the play-by-play, with Shep Messing providing color commentary.
B-West passes physical with Rams
Brian Westbrook has passed his physical with the Rams, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and is now in the process of deciding whether he wants to backup Steven Jackson on a really bad team.
"He wanted to go back [home] and think it over," Rams general manager Billy Devaney told the Post-Dispatch. "We're just taking it one step at a time right now."
"He wanted to go back [home] and think it over," Rams general manager Billy Devaney told the Post-Dispatch. "We're just taking it one step at a time right now."
Williams takes CP3's title
By John McMullen
Philadelphia, PA - Coaches in all sports are fond of saying you can't lose your spot due to injury.
That cliche only gets ramped up if you are a star.
The NBA's best point guard, Chris Paul, went through his most difficult season as a pro this year in the Big Easy. After a poor 3-6 start to the season, the Hornets fired head coach Byron Scott in November and replaced him with general manager Jeff Bower, a move Paul didn't agree with. The three-time All-Star expressed his displeasure and sparked some controversy when he claimed management should have consulted with him before pulling the trigger.
The next day, Paul suffered a left ankle sprain against the Portland Trail Blazers and missed eight games. His injury-riddled season continued in early February when an MRI revealed a torn meniscus in his left knee, forcing the former Rookie of the Year and Olympic Gold Medalist to undergo arthroscopic surgery.
Paul was sidelined for nearly eight weeks, missing 25 contests and the 2010 All-Star Game. He finally returned to action on March 22 but with the season going nowhere, New Orleans shut down its superstar for good just over two weeks later.
Through it all, rookie first round pick Darren Collison actually excelled in Paul's absence, but anyone thinking the former UCLA star has any chance of taking minutes away from Paul next season probably needs a few sessions with a therapist.
Chris Paul isn't losing his spot to a rookie with an upside.
His mantle as the game's best point guard, however, is in play.
Just like boxing fans, who often like to debate who the best pound-for-pound pugilist is, basketball fans love comparisons.
Head down to the legendary Blue Horizon in North Philadelphia and you are sure to hear the locals discussing the merits of Floyd Mayweather, Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao. Head down to your local barbershop to talk hoops and it might be "Who's better -- Kobe or LeBron?"
Before this tortured season, Paul was the undisputed King of NBA point guards. Now, Utah's Deron Williams is topping more than a few lists.
Jerry Sloan's quarterback has been spectacular in the team's Western Conference quarterfinals series with Denver.
Despite missing two starters due to injury, the Jazz have a commanding 3-1 edge in the set with a chance to put things away in the Rockies on Wednesday. Williams has been the catalyst, torturing fellow All-Star Chauncey Billups.
"I have great respect for Chauncey, but Deron Williams is just kicking his (butt)," TNT analyst Charles Barkley said Sunday. "He is dominating this series totally. He has been the best player in every game. He is imposing his will and this team is missing two of their better players (Andrei Kirilenko and Mehmet Okur)."
The dynamic Illinois product scored 24 points and distributed 13 assists in Sunday's pivotal Game 4 win, joining the Cincinnati Royals' Oscar Robertson (1965 Eastern Division semifinals vs. Philadelphia), the Suns' Kevin Johnson (1989 Western Conference finals against the LA Lakers) and the Lakers' Magic Johnson (1990 Western Conference semifinals against Phoenix) as the only players in NBA history to register at least 20 points and 10 or more assists in each of the first four games of a playoff series.
"One of the reasons why Chauncey can't do anything is because Deron Williams is going after him," Chris Webber said. "Defensively, he can't lock down on him."
So, who's the best right now -- CP3 or D-Will?
"(Williams') size, his strength and his vision as a point guard. This is the best point guard in the game right now," Reggie Miller said.
"If somebody says (Deron Williams) is arguably the best point guard, nobody's arguing," Barkley added. "He is the best point guard in the NBA."
Hail to the new King.
 |
That cliche only gets ramped up if you are a star.
The NBA's best point guard, Chris Paul, went through his most difficult season as a pro this year in the Big Easy. After a poor 3-6 start to the season, the Hornets fired head coach Byron Scott in November and replaced him with general manager Jeff Bower, a move Paul didn't agree with. The three-time All-Star expressed his displeasure and sparked some controversy when he claimed management should have consulted with him before pulling the trigger.
The next day, Paul suffered a left ankle sprain against the Portland Trail Blazers and missed eight games. His injury-riddled season continued in early February when an MRI revealed a torn meniscus in his left knee, forcing the former Rookie of the Year and Olympic Gold Medalist to undergo arthroscopic surgery.
Paul was sidelined for nearly eight weeks, missing 25 contests and the 2010 All-Star Game. He finally returned to action on March 22 but with the season going nowhere, New Orleans shut down its superstar for good just over two weeks later.
Through it all, rookie first round pick Darren Collison actually excelled in Paul's absence, but anyone thinking the former UCLA star has any chance of taking minutes away from Paul next season probably needs a few sessions with a therapist.
 |
His mantle as the game's best point guard, however, is in play.
Just like boxing fans, who often like to debate who the best pound-for-pound pugilist is, basketball fans love comparisons.
Head down to the legendary Blue Horizon in North Philadelphia and you are sure to hear the locals discussing the merits of Floyd Mayweather, Jr. vs. Manny Pacquiao. Head down to your local barbershop to talk hoops and it might be "Who's better -- Kobe or LeBron?"
Before this tortured season, Paul was the undisputed King of NBA point guards. Now, Utah's Deron Williams is topping more than a few lists.
Jerry Sloan's quarterback has been spectacular in the team's Western Conference quarterfinals series with Denver.
Despite missing two starters due to injury, the Jazz have a commanding 3-1 edge in the set with a chance to put things away in the Rockies on Wednesday. Williams has been the catalyst, torturing fellow All-Star Chauncey Billups.
"I have great respect for Chauncey, but Deron Williams is just kicking his (butt)," TNT analyst Charles Barkley said Sunday. "He is dominating this series totally. He has been the best player in every game. He is imposing his will and this team is missing two of their better players (Andrei Kirilenko and Mehmet Okur)."
The dynamic Illinois product scored 24 points and distributed 13 assists in Sunday's pivotal Game 4 win, joining the Cincinnati Royals' Oscar Robertson (1965 Eastern Division semifinals vs. Philadelphia), the Suns' Kevin Johnson (1989 Western Conference finals against the LA Lakers) and the Lakers' Magic Johnson (1990 Western Conference semifinals against Phoenix) as the only players in NBA history to register at least 20 points and 10 or more assists in each of the first four games of a playoff series.
"One of the reasons why Chauncey can't do anything is because Deron Williams is going after him," Chris Webber said. "Defensively, he can't lock down on him."
So, who's the best right now -- CP3 or D-Will?
"(Williams') size, his strength and his vision as a point guard. This is the best point guard in the game right now," Reggie Miller said.
"If somebody says (Deron Williams) is arguably the best point guard, nobody's arguing," Barkley added. "He is the best point guard in the NBA."
Hail to the new King.
McHale, Barkley and Webber talk L.B. and Sixers
Kevin McHale on reports that Bobcats head coach Larry Brown is planning to head to the Philadelphia 76ers:
“I certainly hope that is not true. If you are a player for the Charlotte Bobcats, leaving your heart and soul on that floor, you don’t want to hear that your coach is taking another job. I hope that is not true. I really like Coach Brown and I know he is committed to the Bobcats so I hope those are erroneous rumors.”
Kevin McHale on the dedication the Charlotte Bobcats have to coach Larry Brown:
“One thing you can say about Charlotte is that they may have a tough time scoring, but they play hard. Those guys give it to their coach. Larry Brown demands effort and they really give it to him, so he has to be very, very happy with his team. Like I said, if you are player bleeding on the floor for your coach, you hate to hear reports like that thinking he is leaving them.”
Charles Barkley on reports that Larry Brown could leave the Charlotte Bobcats to take a front office job with the Philadelphia 76ers:
“It wouldn’t surprise me if he went up to the front office. I believe him when he says he won’t coach anywhere else but that doesn’t mean he won’t take a (front office job) with the 76ers. The 76ers are in a lot of trouble, they have a long way to go and they are not a very good team so he’s definitely not going to go there to coach. If you look at the Charlotte team, they are not a contender in the next (few) years. They’ve got two great building blocks in Gerald Wallace and Stephen Jackson. They are not going to win the Championship in the next two or three years.”
Chris Webber: “Philly might not make the Playoffs in the next ten years,”
Barkley: “But being upstairs (in the front office), he won’t have the stress of sitting on the bench. Let’s be realistic, Larry isn’t a spring chicken. So does he want the stress of staying in Charlotte and having a good team…”
Webber: “Or do you want the stress of getting rid of Elton Brand’s contract, getting Andre Iguodala right and getting Samuel Dalembert right?”
“I certainly hope that is not true. If you are a player for the Charlotte Bobcats, leaving your heart and soul on that floor, you don’t want to hear that your coach is taking another job. I hope that is not true. I really like Coach Brown and I know he is committed to the Bobcats so I hope those are erroneous rumors.”
Kevin McHale on the dedication the Charlotte Bobcats have to coach Larry Brown:
“One thing you can say about Charlotte is that they may have a tough time scoring, but they play hard. Those guys give it to their coach. Larry Brown demands effort and they really give it to him, so he has to be very, very happy with his team. Like I said, if you are player bleeding on the floor for your coach, you hate to hear reports like that thinking he is leaving them.”
Charles Barkley on reports that Larry Brown could leave the Charlotte Bobcats to take a front office job with the Philadelphia 76ers:
“It wouldn’t surprise me if he went up to the front office. I believe him when he says he won’t coach anywhere else but that doesn’t mean he won’t take a (front office job) with the 76ers. The 76ers are in a lot of trouble, they have a long way to go and they are not a very good team so he’s definitely not going to go there to coach. If you look at the Charlotte team, they are not a contender in the next (few) years. They’ve got two great building blocks in Gerald Wallace and Stephen Jackson. They are not going to win the Championship in the next two or three years.”
Chris Webber: “Philly might not make the Playoffs in the next ten years,”
Barkley: “But being upstairs (in the front office), he won’t have the stress of sitting on the bench. Let’s be realistic, Larry isn’t a spring chicken. So does he want the stress of staying in Charlotte and having a good team…”
Webber: “Or do you want the stress of getting rid of Elton Brand’s contract, getting Andre Iguodala right and getting Samuel Dalembert right?”
Does Brown want back in?
With the Charlotte Bobcats season now officially toast, YAHOO!'s Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting Larry Brown is angling to take the Sixers' presidency.
Wojo says L.B. has targeted Washington Wizards front office executive Milt Newton as his general manager and underrated Atlanta Hawks mentor Mike Woodson as coach.
Comcast-Spectacor chairman Ed Snider called the report "total unadulterated bull."
Let's hope Ed is lying.
Who would you rather have running the Sixers. Ed Stefanski and another coach he picks or Larry Brown and a guy who won 53 games this season?
Wojo says L.B. has targeted Washington Wizards front office executive Milt Newton as his general manager and underrated Atlanta Hawks mentor Mike Woodson as coach.
Comcast-Spectacor chairman Ed Snider called the report "total unadulterated bull."
Let's hope Ed is lying.
Who would you rather have running the Sixers. Ed Stefanski and another coach he picks or Larry Brown and a guy who won 53 games this season?
Ortiz blames incident on Jameson's oxycontin addiction
After being released from jail on bond, UFC star Tito Ortiz and his lawyer held a press conference claiming that his girlfriend Jenna Jameson is addicted to oxycontin and that he never struck her.
Chip Matthews, Ortiz's attorney, claimed Jameson had been battling the addiction for more than a year and that Ortiz and other family members have been protecting her.
Matthews claimed Jameson had a relapse and Ortiz confronted her on Monday about the drugs he claimed to have found. They claim Ortiz was arrested when officers saw physical marks on Jameson's body nut claimed an injury to Jameson's left elbow was from her losing her balance and falling.
Matthews also said that Jameson has been to rehab, and her addiction has led to multiple 911 suicide calls.
Jameson left Ortiz's home in Huntington Beach for Las Vegas, saying that Ortiz was just trying to save his career.
Chip Matthews, Ortiz's attorney, claimed Jameson had been battling the addiction for more than a year and that Ortiz and other family members have been protecting her.
Matthews claimed Jameson had a relapse and Ortiz confronted her on Monday about the drugs he claimed to have found. They claim Ortiz was arrested when officers saw physical marks on Jameson's body nut claimed an injury to Jameson's left elbow was from her losing her balance and falling.
Matthews also said that Jameson has been to rehab, and her addiction has led to multiple 911 suicide calls.
Jameson left Ortiz's home in Huntington Beach for Las Vegas, saying that Ortiz was just trying to save his career.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Steelers' Roethlisberger releases statement
Embattled Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said in a statement Monday he will not appeal the suspension handed down by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
"The Commissioner's decision to suspend me speaks clearly that more is expected of me," Roethlisberger's statement said. "I am accountable for the consequences of my actions. Though I have committed no crime, I regret that I have fallen short of the values instilled in me by my family. I will not appeal the suspension and will comply with what is asked of me - and more.
"Missing games will be devastating for me. I am sorry to let down my teammates and the entire Steelers fan base. I am disappointed that I have reached this point and will not put myself in this situation again.
"I appreciate the opportunities that I have been given in my life and will make the necessary improvements."
Last week the league announced Roethlisberger had been suspended six games following the case from Georgia, in which Roethlisberger was accused of sexual assault at a nightclub. Roethlisberger was not charged in the incident, but Goodell felt his conduct "raises sufficient concerns" and could not "remotely be described as admirable, responsible, or consistent with either the values of the league or the expectations of our fans."
Goodell required that Roethlisberger undergo comprehensive behavioral evaluation as part of the suspension, which could be reduced to four games after Goodell reviews the quarterback's progress.
"The Commissioner's decision to suspend me speaks clearly that more is expected of me," Roethlisberger's statement said. "I am accountable for the consequences of my actions. Though I have committed no crime, I regret that I have fallen short of the values instilled in me by my family. I will not appeal the suspension and will comply with what is asked of me - and more.
"Missing games will be devastating for me. I am sorry to let down my teammates and the entire Steelers fan base. I am disappointed that I have reached this point and will not put myself in this situation again.
"I appreciate the opportunities that I have been given in my life and will make the necessary improvements."
Last week the league announced Roethlisberger had been suspended six games following the case from Georgia, in which Roethlisberger was accused of sexual assault at a nightclub. Roethlisberger was not charged in the incident, but Goodell felt his conduct "raises sufficient concerns" and could not "remotely be described as admirable, responsible, or consistent with either the values of the league or the expectations of our fans."
Goodell required that Roethlisberger undergo comprehensive behavioral evaluation as part of the suspension, which could be reduced to four games after Goodell reviews the quarterback's progress.
Ortiz arrested for domestic violence on Jenna Jameson
The report stated that there was a 911 call to police at 9:53 a.m. saying there was a disturbance at the home and ten officers responded since Ortiz was involved.
According to the police report, Jameson had "visible injuries" when they arrived. Ortiz is currently still in custody.
Phillies' Howard signs extension
The five-year extension will pay Howard $20 million in each of the 2012 and 2013 seasons and $25 million per year from 2014-16. The club option for 2017 is worth $23 million with a $10 million buyout. The extension includes awards bonuses and a limited no-trade provision.
Howard, 30, is hitting .275 with three home runs and 16 RBI this season and has started all 18 of the Phillies' games thus far.
In his major league career, Howard has won the National League Rookie of the Year and MVP Awards in successive seasons (2005-06), is a two-time NL All-Star (2006, 2009), won a Silver Slugger Award (2006) and was named MVP of the National League Championship Series last year. In his MVP season of 2006, Howard set a Phillies single-season record with 58 home runs and is the all-time franchise leader in postseason RBI (27).
Since becoming an everyday player on July 1, 2005, Howard leads all major league players in home runs (222) and RBI (650). Last season, Howard became just the fourth player in major league history to have four straight 40 home run/130 RBI seasons, joining Hall of Famer Babe Ruth (7), Ken Griffey Jr. (4) and Sammy Sosa (4), and the fastest player ever to 200 home runs (658 games), besting Ralph Kiner's previous record by 48 games.
Originally selected by the Phillies in the fifth round of the 2001 draft, Howard enters play tonight with a career .279 batting average, 225 home runs and 656 RBI in 750 games, all with Philadelphia. He currently ranks in fifth place on the Phillies' all-time home run list, behind Mike Schmidt (548), Del Ennis (259), Pat Burrell (251), and Chuck Klein (243). His .583 slugging percentage is the best in club history.
Independence get first win
WEST CHESTER, PA (April 25, 2010) The Philadelphia Independence earned the first win of the season tonight with a 3-1 victory over the Washington Freedom. In a cold April rain, the Independence came back from a one goal deficit to capture the team's first victory with three consecutive goals.
The Freedom came out strong, controlling the majority of the possession in the first fifteen minutes of the game and looking dangerous on attack. In the thirteenth minute, Abby Wambach managed to put a header in the back of the net, but it was called back due to an offsides call from the sideline referee. It seemed to be a wakeup call for the Independence, as they immediately began connecting and settled into a rhythm.
In the 17th minute, the Independence got their first opportunity off a cross from Rodriguez to Lohman, whose shot was blocked by a Freedom defender. Four minutes later, the Independence got their best opportunity of the half when a ball skipped past keeper Brianna Scurry to find Lianne Sanderson with an open net. Her low shot had Scurry beat but was cleared from the goal line by Sonja Bompastor, who positioned herself well inside of the post.
The Freedom continued to create opportunities on net, and in the 27th minute Cat Whitehill's rocket from 25 yards out required Val Henderson to make an athletic diving save to deflect the ball wide. Henderson came up with another save just minutes later off a volley from Sawa inside of the box. Both teams entered the half scoreless.
A light rain began during half time and both teams came out energized in the second half. The Freedom struck first, putting a ball in the back of the net in the 50th minute. Abby Wambach's cross from the left touchline found an unmarked Lisa DeVanna who finished easily. Wambach has four assists in three games for the Freedom.
The goal lit a fire under the Independence and Amy Rodriguez equalized just three minutes later. Rodriguez brought the ball down off her chest 25 yards out, beating a defender and sending a left-footed rocket past goalkeeper Meagan McCray. The Independence did not stop there, taking the lead four minutes later off a header from Allison Falk. Lori Lindsey's free kick from the right side found a crashing Falk, almost exactly the same scene as last week's goal against Boston.
Lindsey earned her second assist of the night in the 67th minute, cutting the ball back on a defender and sending a cross in to Lianne Sanderson, who scored her first goal of the season off a header.
The Independence managed to hold the two-goal lead, but both teams continued to fight in the final minutes. Another goal by Amy Rodriguez in the 68th minute was revoked for an offsides call. Val Henderson came up with a brilliant save in the 84th, again showing her athleticism to stop a powerful volley from the Freedom's Christie Welsh. Allison Falk and Sara Larsson put an outstanding defensive performance, playing a smart physical game and preventing Abby Wambach from getting any opportunities on goal in the second half. The Independence defense held strong until the final whistle, with the game ending in a 3-1 victory for Philadelphia.
The Independence play at home again in less than a week, hosting fellow expansion team Atlanta Beat again on Saturday, May 1.
The Freedom came out strong, controlling the majority of the possession in the first fifteen minutes of the game and looking dangerous on attack. In the thirteenth minute, Abby Wambach managed to put a header in the back of the net, but it was called back due to an offsides call from the sideline referee. It seemed to be a wakeup call for the Independence, as they immediately began connecting and settled into a rhythm.
In the 17th minute, the Independence got their first opportunity off a cross from Rodriguez to Lohman, whose shot was blocked by a Freedom defender. Four minutes later, the Independence got their best opportunity of the half when a ball skipped past keeper Brianna Scurry to find Lianne Sanderson with an open net. Her low shot had Scurry beat but was cleared from the goal line by Sonja Bompastor, who positioned herself well inside of the post.
The Freedom continued to create opportunities on net, and in the 27th minute Cat Whitehill's rocket from 25 yards out required Val Henderson to make an athletic diving save to deflect the ball wide. Henderson came up with another save just minutes later off a volley from Sawa inside of the box. Both teams entered the half scoreless.
A light rain began during half time and both teams came out energized in the second half. The Freedom struck first, putting a ball in the back of the net in the 50th minute. Abby Wambach's cross from the left touchline found an unmarked Lisa DeVanna who finished easily. Wambach has four assists in three games for the Freedom.
The goal lit a fire under the Independence and Amy Rodriguez equalized just three minutes later. Rodriguez brought the ball down off her chest 25 yards out, beating a defender and sending a left-footed rocket past goalkeeper Meagan McCray. The Independence did not stop there, taking the lead four minutes later off a header from Allison Falk. Lori Lindsey's free kick from the right side found a crashing Falk, almost exactly the same scene as last week's goal against Boston.
Lindsey earned her second assist of the night in the 67th minute, cutting the ball back on a defender and sending a cross in to Lianne Sanderson, who scored her first goal of the season off a header.
The Independence managed to hold the two-goal lead, but both teams continued to fight in the final minutes. Another goal by Amy Rodriguez in the 68th minute was revoked for an offsides call. Val Henderson came up with a brilliant save in the 84th, again showing her athleticism to stop a powerful volley from the Freedom's Christie Welsh. Allison Falk and Sara Larsson put an outstanding defensive performance, playing a smart physical game and preventing Abby Wambach from getting any opportunities on goal in the second half. The Independence defense held strong until the final whistle, with the game ending in a 3-1 victory for Philadelphia.
The Independence play at home again in less than a week, hosting fellow expansion team Atlanta Beat again on Saturday, May 1.
Franzke and Wife Welcome Baby
Congratulations to Phillies announcer Scott Franzke and his wife, Lori, who became first-time parents to son, August. August was born Thursday, April 22nd at 10:13 p.m., weighing in at 7 pounds, 13 ounces.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Eagles add 7 undrafted free agents
According to theRedZone.org, the Eagles have agreed to terms with seven undrafted free agents:
Charles Alexander DT LSU
Blue Cooper WR Tenn-Chattanooga
Joey Elliott QB Purdue
Keith Flemming RB West Texas A&M
Kevin Jurovich WR San Jose State
Pat Simonds WR Colgate
Chris Zardas FB Massachusetts
Charles Alexander DT LSU
Blue Cooper WR Tenn-Chattanooga
Joey Elliott QB Purdue
Keith Flemming RB West Texas A&M
Kevin Jurovich WR San Jose State
Pat Simonds WR Colgate
Chris Zardas FB Massachusetts
Blazers' Roy is a rare breed
By John McMullen
Philadelphia, PA - It wasn't quite Willis Reed limping out to the floor before Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals, but Brandon Roy's surprise return on Saturday saved the Portland Trail Blazers' season.
Just eight days after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, Roy suited up and gave the Blazers and the Rose Garden faithful the emotional lift they needed after the club had lost the previous two games in their Western Conference quarterfinals series with Phoenix by a combined 48 points.
The All-Star guard, who averaged a team-high 21.5 points per game this season, played nearly 27 minutes and scored five of his 10 points in the final quarter for Portland, which pulled out the 96-87 victory to deadlock the series at two games apiece.
The Blazers weren't playing for an NBA title like Reed's Knicks were in 1970. Heck, Portland wasn't even playing for its season, but a loss would have put the club in a virtually insurmountable 3-1 hole.
Roy could have sat back, rested his knee and started reserving tee times. No one would have blamed him. In today's money-driven, sports world, a superstar risking his long-term health for the good of the team is as rare as a bipartisan bill in Washington D.C.
To be blunt, putting yourself before the team is expected these days.
"He thinks that he is bulletproof," TNT analyst Kenny Smith said. "Cooler heads have to prevail and say are we really going to win an NBA championship? Does it really make a difference if he plays right now? If we are really that good let's wait two weeks."
"You just have to wonder what the Portland Trail Blazers are thinking," Charles Barkley added. "He is your franchise, he's your best player, I'm not sure I would take that chance. Clearly he is a great player, terrific person; you have to admire his heart. But, from a medical standpoint, I'm not sure you can have surgery and play basketball (eight days later). He might be alright but somewhere down the line whether it is this series or later in your career, you are going to have some side effects."
Well, Roy ignored the naysayers and proved he was a rare breed just like Willis Reed.
"The doctors said it was a pretty bad tear," Roy said. "The minute the surgery was over and I woke up in the recovery room I said my knee felt great. It has been feeling good all week, I've been working out and preparing for a moment like this. I am happy I was able to help my team and help these fans and we definitely have a Game 6 for sure now."
Yeah, Reed's return in 1970 was a tad more dramatic. The Hall of Famer was crippled by a torn thigh muscle and the Knicks appeared to be in dire straits after being walloped by Wilt Chamberlain's Lakers in Game 6. Reed emerged from the tunnel prior to Game 7 and the Madison Square Garden faithful erupted.
After he knocked down New York's first two baskets, Reed retreated and let Walt Frazier take things from there. "Clyde" went on to pour in 36 points and dish out 19 assists as the Knicks won their first NBA championship in a 113-99 rout.
But, Reed's actual play wasn't the difference, his inspiration was. Roy has a chance to carry the banged-up Blazers on his back both emotionally and physically.
"The big thing about Roy is that he is a scorer, we know that," former NBA coach Mike Fratello said. "But Nate McMillan has also played him in the role of point guard, a facilitator. He may not be able to create his own shot or get his own shot but he can certainly make the pass to someone else that is open as a result of screening. He is a guy that you can put the ball in his hand and trust his decision making."
Whether Roy's knee holds up for the rest of the series remains to be seen but momentum has clearly shifted and its Phoenix that is on the run now.
"I just wanted to come out and contribute," Roy said. "That's what I told coach before the game. I wouldn't feel right sitting in the back feeling as good as I do."
Philadelphia, PA - It wasn't quite Willis Reed limping out to the floor before Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals, but Brandon Roy's surprise return on Saturday saved the Portland Trail Blazers' season.
Just eight days after undergoing surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee, Roy suited up and gave the Blazers and the Rose Garden faithful the emotional lift they needed after the club had lost the previous two games in their Western Conference quarterfinals series with Phoenix by a combined 48 points.
The All-Star guard, who averaged a team-high 21.5 points per game this season, played nearly 27 minutes and scored five of his 10 points in the final quarter for Portland, which pulled out the 96-87 victory to deadlock the series at two games apiece.
The Blazers weren't playing for an NBA title like Reed's Knicks were in 1970. Heck, Portland wasn't even playing for its season, but a loss would have put the club in a virtually insurmountable 3-1 hole.
Roy could have sat back, rested his knee and started reserving tee times. No one would have blamed him. In today's money-driven, sports world, a superstar risking his long-term health for the good of the team is as rare as a bipartisan bill in Washington D.C.
To be blunt, putting yourself before the team is expected these days.
"He thinks that he is bulletproof," TNT analyst Kenny Smith said. "Cooler heads have to prevail and say are we really going to win an NBA championship? Does it really make a difference if he plays right now? If we are really that good let's wait two weeks."
"You just have to wonder what the Portland Trail Blazers are thinking," Charles Barkley added. "He is your franchise, he's your best player, I'm not sure I would take that chance. Clearly he is a great player, terrific person; you have to admire his heart. But, from a medical standpoint, I'm not sure you can have surgery and play basketball (eight days later). He might be alright but somewhere down the line whether it is this series or later in your career, you are going to have some side effects."
Well, Roy ignored the naysayers and proved he was a rare breed just like Willis Reed.
"The doctors said it was a pretty bad tear," Roy said. "The minute the surgery was over and I woke up in the recovery room I said my knee felt great. It has been feeling good all week, I've been working out and preparing for a moment like this. I am happy I was able to help my team and help these fans and we definitely have a Game 6 for sure now."
Yeah, Reed's return in 1970 was a tad more dramatic. The Hall of Famer was crippled by a torn thigh muscle and the Knicks appeared to be in dire straits after being walloped by Wilt Chamberlain's Lakers in Game 6. Reed emerged from the tunnel prior to Game 7 and the Madison Square Garden faithful erupted.
After he knocked down New York's first two baskets, Reed retreated and let Walt Frazier take things from there. "Clyde" went on to pour in 36 points and dish out 19 assists as the Knicks won their first NBA championship in a 113-99 rout.
But, Reed's actual play wasn't the difference, his inspiration was. Roy has a chance to carry the banged-up Blazers on his back both emotionally and physically.
"The big thing about Roy is that he is a scorer, we know that," former NBA coach Mike Fratello said. "But Nate McMillan has also played him in the role of point guard, a facilitator. He may not be able to create his own shot or get his own shot but he can certainly make the pass to someone else that is open as a result of screening. He is a guy that you can put the ball in his hand and trust his decision making."
Whether Roy's knee holds up for the rest of the series remains to be seen but momentum has clearly shifted and its Phoenix that is on the run now.
"I just wanted to come out and contribute," Roy said. "That's what I told coach before the game. I wouldn't feel right sitting in the back feeling as good as I do."
Rutgers' Ryan D’Imperio selected by Vikings
Former Rutgers linebacker Ryan D’Imperio (Sewell, N.J.) was selected in the seventh round of the 2010 NFL Draft Saturday by the Minnesota Vikings. D’Imperio was chosen with the 237th pick of the NFL Draft.
D’Imperio was a two-year starter for the Scarlet Knights. In 50 career games, he totaled 185 tackles, 23 for loss, seven sacks and two interceptions. He was named Second Team All-BIG EAST following the 2008 season. As a junior, he totaled 93 tackles, including 12.5 for loss and 5.5 sacks.
D’Imperio will play fullback for the Vikings.
Rutgers finished with three players going in the 2010 NFL Draft. Joining D’Imperio were two first round selections – offensive tackle Anthony Davis (Piscataway, N.J.) 11th overall to the 49ers and defensive back Devin McCourty (Nanuet, N.Y.), who was selected 27th overall by the Patriots.
The Scarlet Knights were the only school in the BIG EAST with two first round selections and the first league school since 2004 to have multiple first round picks. In the last four NFL Drafts, Rutgers is tied for the BIG EAST lead with 13 players selected.
D’Imperio was a two-year starter for the Scarlet Knights. In 50 career games, he totaled 185 tackles, 23 for loss, seven sacks and two interceptions. He was named Second Team All-BIG EAST following the 2008 season. As a junior, he totaled 93 tackles, including 12.5 for loss and 5.5 sacks.
D’Imperio will play fullback for the Vikings.
Rutgers finished with three players going in the 2010 NFL Draft. Joining D’Imperio were two first round selections – offensive tackle Anthony Davis (Piscataway, N.J.) 11th overall to the 49ers and defensive back Devin McCourty (Nanuet, N.Y.), who was selected 27th overall by the Patriots.
The Scarlet Knights were the only school in the BIG EAST with two first round selections and the first league school since 2004 to have multiple first round picks. In the last four NFL Drafts, Rutgers is tied for the BIG EAST lead with 13 players selected.
Scarlet and White Game recap
PISCATAWAY, N.J. (April 24, 2010) – The Scarlet defeated the White 16-7 behind a solid ground game, led by rising junior running back Joe Martinek (Hopatcong, N.J.), in front of a school-record crowd of 20,114 fans at Rutgers Stadium.
The attendance topped the previous Rutgers Spring Game record of 15,899, established in 2009 as the Scarlet-White game capped a full day of events as part of Rutgers Day.
Martinek rushed 18 times for 116 yards and a touchdown to lead all ball carriers. Also leading the effort for the Scarlet offense was rising sophomore quarterback Tom Savage (Springfield, Pa.), who completed 17-of-30 passes for 181 yards. Redshirt freshman Quron Pratt (Palmyra, N.J.) totaled eight catches for 55 yards, leading the Scarlet receivers.
Rising junior San San Te (Conover, N.C.) connected on all three of his field goal attempts, adding to the Scarlet point total. Te was successful on tries from 21, 24 and 39 yards, respectively.
Defensively, the Scarlet was led by rising sophomore Ka’Lial Glaud (Atco, N.J.) with eight tackles (three solo, five assisted) and a fumble recovery. Rising junior Al-Ghaffaar Lane (East Orange, N.J.) and rising sophomore Morgan Carter (Woodbridge, Va.) followed with six tackles apiece. Lane also added two pass breakups.
Rising senior Antonio Lowery (Miami, Fla.) and rising sophomore Steve Beauharnais (Saddle Brook, N.J.) led the White defense with a game-high 13 tackles each. Rising sophomores Steve Shimko (Ewing, N.J.) and Keith Stroud (Brooklyn, N.Y.) connected on a 37-yard touchdown pass to provide the White squad with its offensive score.
During halftime, Rutgers Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Tim Pernetti, presented the annual Spring Football Awards. Rising senior defensive tackle Charlie Noon (Philadelphia, Pa.) received the Frank R. Burns Award, given to the player who displays extraordinary mental and physical toughness during spring practice. Wright was the recipient of the Mark Mills Second Effort Award, given to the Most Improved Offensive Players, while rising sophomore defensive back Khaseem Greene (Elizabeth, N.J.) earned the Douglas A. Smith Award for his efforts as the Most Improved Defensive Player.
Rutgers returns 14 starters and 45 letterwinners from last year’s squad that finished 9-4, including a 45-24 victory over UCF in the 2009 St. Petersburg Bowl. The Scarlet Knights have appeared in five consecutive bowls, including four straight bowl victories - one of four teams to accomplish the feat. RU opens the 2010 season Thursday, Sept. 2, hosting Norfolk State at Rutgers Stadium.
The attendance topped the previous Rutgers Spring Game record of 15,899, established in 2009 as the Scarlet-White game capped a full day of events as part of Rutgers Day.
Martinek rushed 18 times for 116 yards and a touchdown to lead all ball carriers. Also leading the effort for the Scarlet offense was rising sophomore quarterback Tom Savage (Springfield, Pa.), who completed 17-of-30 passes for 181 yards. Redshirt freshman Quron Pratt (Palmyra, N.J.) totaled eight catches for 55 yards, leading the Scarlet receivers.
Rising junior San San Te (Conover, N.C.) connected on all three of his field goal attempts, adding to the Scarlet point total. Te was successful on tries from 21, 24 and 39 yards, respectively.
Defensively, the Scarlet was led by rising sophomore Ka’Lial Glaud (Atco, N.J.) with eight tackles (three solo, five assisted) and a fumble recovery. Rising junior Al-Ghaffaar Lane (East Orange, N.J.) and rising sophomore Morgan Carter (Woodbridge, Va.) followed with six tackles apiece. Lane also added two pass breakups.
Rising senior Antonio Lowery (Miami, Fla.) and rising sophomore Steve Beauharnais (Saddle Brook, N.J.) led the White defense with a game-high 13 tackles each. Rising sophomores Steve Shimko (Ewing, N.J.) and Keith Stroud (Brooklyn, N.Y.) connected on a 37-yard touchdown pass to provide the White squad with its offensive score.
During halftime, Rutgers Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Tim Pernetti, presented the annual Spring Football Awards. Rising senior defensive tackle Charlie Noon (Philadelphia, Pa.) received the Frank R. Burns Award, given to the player who displays extraordinary mental and physical toughness during spring practice. Wright was the recipient of the Mark Mills Second Effort Award, given to the Most Improved Offensive Players, while rising sophomore defensive back Khaseem Greene (Elizabeth, N.J.) earned the Douglas A. Smith Award for his efforts as the Most Improved Defensive Player.
Rutgers returns 14 starters and 45 letterwinners from last year’s squad that finished 9-4, including a 45-24 victory over UCF in the 2009 St. Petersburg Bowl. The Scarlet Knights have appeared in five consecutive bowls, including four straight bowl victories - one of four teams to accomplish the feat. RU opens the 2010 season Thursday, Sept. 2, hosting Norfolk State at Rutgers Stadium.
Eagles RB Charles Scott talks to the media
On whether sharing time in the backfield at LSU and his injury affected his draft stock:
“I don’t think it really affected me, as far as sharing time in the backfield with Keiland [Williams] and the other guys, it was more of a good thing because I didn’t have as much wear and tear on my body as other running backs would have. I think the only thing that hurt me in the draft this year was my shoulder injury and I kind of fell off the grid, and people didn’t see me, and it’s out of sight, out of mind.”
On whether he was frustrated by his injury:
“At first, it was very frustrating, but then I told myself ‘everything happens for a reason, and God has a plan for me’. And I was just going to roll with it, and just show up and do the best I can.”
On whether he had high expectations after his junior season:
“I expected to have a dominant year [as a senior], but we lost a great fullback with Quinn Johnson and kind of had to make us alter our scheme a little bit, as far as our offense goes. We had to give them a little more one-back, and do some things without a fullback that we weren’t used to. And that kind of threw off the consistency of our offense. So I kind of feel like that was the main factor of why we weren’t as productive on offense the next year.”
On what his expectations are of how the Eagles will use him:
“They haven’t really used me yet, I just feel like I can come in with a young guy like [LaSean] McCoy and an older guy like [Mike] Bell, and learn from them.”
On describing himself as a player:
“I’m like a Jamal Lewis-type runner, fast but strong. Third downs, goal line—just an every down back, a workhorse back. I feel like my role wouldn’t change too much when I go to the Eagles.”
On how much he was used as a receiver out of the backfield while playing at LSU:
“There were a few concepts with the running back involved out of the backfield, not many, but there were a few, though. We seldom caught the ball, but we always worked with the receivers in practice, catching and those things. That’s why all the running backs at LSU caught so well, because we always worked on it, we just never really utilized it in a game.”
On whether he has heard of former Eagles and LSU RB Steve Van Buren:
“I’ve heard of him, because he’s all over the wall [at LSU]. He’s all over the wall in the running back room. But I’ve heard of him most definitely, and it will be motivation to chase, it’ll definitely be something to look forward to and something that, like I said, to motivate me to chase that dream. So, I know a little bit about him.”
On whether he is completely healed from his injury:
“Yeah, I’m good to go. I’m ready to rock.”
On whether being in a running back rotation in college will possibly help him adapt to the
Eagles’ system:
“That’s the thing. I’ve been in that system all my life. Even in high school, I had another guy that rotated with me at running back. It was always a one-two punch. And at LSU, there were four of us, really. Three or four of us got the ball, it was always consistent that it was more than one running back and there was some type of rotation, so I’d actually be comfortable with it.”
Lehigh Brown & White Game recap
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The Lehigh football team wrapped up its spring season on Saturday at the annual Brown and White Game as the Mountain Hawks defense outlasted the offense 39-37 in a back-and-forth affair inside of Goodman Stadium.
The defense exacted revenge on the offense after falling in last year’s game as the D picked off four passes on the afternoon. Linebacker Troy Taylor led the Lehigh defense with six tackles, while four different players intercepted passes, including Jonathan Littlejohn who returned his to pay dirt.
“It played out for the most part the way I thought it would with plenty of good competition on both sides of the ball,” Mountain Hawks head coach Andy Coen said afterwards. “The defense created turnovers, some of which were off of bad decisions by the quarterbacks, but we’ve been preaching to the defense all spring about taking the ball away and keeping it and today they were able to do that.
“I thought offensively the flow went smooth with (Offensive Coordinator) Dave (Cecchini) calling the plays live for really the first time. A lot of positions are still up for grabs on both sides and now it’s up to the kids to work hard during the summer and come back to campus ready for football in August.”
All four quarterbacks on the Lehigh roster saw action on Saturday, including JB Clark who completed six-of-ten passes for 53 yards and one score.
“I thought overall there were some things that I could have done better and the offense as a whole could have improved on,” Clark said afterwards. “We still have a long way to go before September, a lot of work to get done, but it felt good to get out here today. I think we had a good spring but there is definitely room for us to improve between now and the next time we get out here.”
Also at quarterback Chris Lum completed 6-of-13 passes for 52 yards and a score, while Mike Colvin threw for 86 yards on five completions and Trace Cisneros totaled 14 yards through the air.
The offense looked sharp on its first possession as it drove in for a touchdown, which came on a pretty Clark to Jake Drwal pass that covered 20 yards into the corner of the end zone. Clark completed every pass he attempted on the drive.
The Mountain Hawks defense then answered right back as Littlejohn stepped in front of Colvin’s first attempt, picked it off, and took it the distance for a touchdown. Colvin later redeemed himself as he connected with fullback Alex Petroff for a five-yard touchdown.
The final offensive touchdown of the day came when Lum scrambled out of the pocket and found tight end Jamel Haggins for a score in the back of the end zone. Haggins finished with three receptions for 13 yards, while Preston Soeprasetyo led the team with 43 yards receiving. Drwal hauled in three passes for 40 yards and Craig Zurn (two), De’Vaughn Gordon (two), Ryan Spadola (two) and Jimmy Jefferson (two) each caught multiple passes.
In the running game Lum led the Brown and White with 28 yards on four carries, while Jay Campbell rushed for 31 yards on five attempts and Zach Barket added 20 yards on six rushes.
The Lehigh defense picked off three more passes throughout the course of the day, including one each from Billy O’Brien, Gabe Johnson and Shane Ryan. Ryan’s interception proved to be the final play of the day and sealed the victory for the D. Earlier in the afternoon Ryan was honored with the Jim Gum Scholarship Award, which is presented in memory of former Lehigh football player James S. Gum ’84.
Other Mountain Hawks who stood out on defense included Al Pierce with three tackles, Bryan Andrews with four stops, Tanner Rivas who had four tackles, including one-for-loss, and a sack, and Sajjad Chagani who totaled two tackles and a sack. In all, the Lehigh defense registered four sacks with one apiece from Rivas, Chagani, Andrew Knapp and Ben Flizack.
Defensive back Jarard Cribbs offered his overall assessment of the defense. “In the first half we started slow. The offense was making plays and we needed to step up. We know one area that we need to improve in this season is getting off the field on third down, so that was our focus after halftime and we were able to be more successful with it.
“From here we want to finish the school year out strong, focus on our academics, and get everyone healthy and then it’s time for summer training. We want as many guys back on campus immediately so we can get to work for the upcoming season.”
Prior to the start of the game Al Pierce and Will Rackley were named captains of the program for the 2010 season.
Coen said that overall it was a productive spring for his team. “Our goal was to develop kids on both sides of the ball and we were able to do that for the most part. We know who our top six or seven offensive lineman are and we feel confident there. think the quarterbacks have taken well to what Dave (Cecchini) has been teaching them as well. One area we need to keep getting better is in the kicking game. All spring we were able to put those guys in tough situations and that needs to continue. It’s only going to get them better.”
Lehigh will open preseason camp in early August with the 2010 season opener slated for Saturday, September 4 versus Drake in Des Moines, Iowa. The contest will be broadcast live on ESPN Radio 1230 and 1320 as well as Lehighsports.com.
The defense exacted revenge on the offense after falling in last year’s game as the D picked off four passes on the afternoon. Linebacker Troy Taylor led the Lehigh defense with six tackles, while four different players intercepted passes, including Jonathan Littlejohn who returned his to pay dirt.
“It played out for the most part the way I thought it would with plenty of good competition on both sides of the ball,” Mountain Hawks head coach Andy Coen said afterwards. “The defense created turnovers, some of which were off of bad decisions by the quarterbacks, but we’ve been preaching to the defense all spring about taking the ball away and keeping it and today they were able to do that.
“I thought offensively the flow went smooth with (Offensive Coordinator) Dave (Cecchini) calling the plays live for really the first time. A lot of positions are still up for grabs on both sides and now it’s up to the kids to work hard during the summer and come back to campus ready for football in August.”
All four quarterbacks on the Lehigh roster saw action on Saturday, including JB Clark who completed six-of-ten passes for 53 yards and one score.
“I thought overall there were some things that I could have done better and the offense as a whole could have improved on,” Clark said afterwards. “We still have a long way to go before September, a lot of work to get done, but it felt good to get out here today. I think we had a good spring but there is definitely room for us to improve between now and the next time we get out here.”
Also at quarterback Chris Lum completed 6-of-13 passes for 52 yards and a score, while Mike Colvin threw for 86 yards on five completions and Trace Cisneros totaled 14 yards through the air.
The offense looked sharp on its first possession as it drove in for a touchdown, which came on a pretty Clark to Jake Drwal pass that covered 20 yards into the corner of the end zone. Clark completed every pass he attempted on the drive.
The Mountain Hawks defense then answered right back as Littlejohn stepped in front of Colvin’s first attempt, picked it off, and took it the distance for a touchdown. Colvin later redeemed himself as he connected with fullback Alex Petroff for a five-yard touchdown.
The final offensive touchdown of the day came when Lum scrambled out of the pocket and found tight end Jamel Haggins for a score in the back of the end zone. Haggins finished with three receptions for 13 yards, while Preston Soeprasetyo led the team with 43 yards receiving. Drwal hauled in three passes for 40 yards and Craig Zurn (two), De’Vaughn Gordon (two), Ryan Spadola (two) and Jimmy Jefferson (two) each caught multiple passes.
In the running game Lum led the Brown and White with 28 yards on four carries, while Jay Campbell rushed for 31 yards on five attempts and Zach Barket added 20 yards on six rushes.
The Lehigh defense picked off three more passes throughout the course of the day, including one each from Billy O’Brien, Gabe Johnson and Shane Ryan. Ryan’s interception proved to be the final play of the day and sealed the victory for the D. Earlier in the afternoon Ryan was honored with the Jim Gum Scholarship Award, which is presented in memory of former Lehigh football player James S. Gum ’84.
Other Mountain Hawks who stood out on defense included Al Pierce with three tackles, Bryan Andrews with four stops, Tanner Rivas who had four tackles, including one-for-loss, and a sack, and Sajjad Chagani who totaled two tackles and a sack. In all, the Lehigh defense registered four sacks with one apiece from Rivas, Chagani, Andrew Knapp and Ben Flizack.
Defensive back Jarard Cribbs offered his overall assessment of the defense. “In the first half we started slow. The offense was making plays and we needed to step up. We know one area that we need to improve in this season is getting off the field on third down, so that was our focus after halftime and we were able to be more successful with it.
“From here we want to finish the school year out strong, focus on our academics, and get everyone healthy and then it’s time for summer training. We want as many guys back on campus immediately so we can get to work for the upcoming season.”
Prior to the start of the game Al Pierce and Will Rackley were named captains of the program for the 2010 season.
Coen said that overall it was a productive spring for his team. “Our goal was to develop kids on both sides of the ball and we were able to do that for the most part. We know who our top six or seven offensive lineman are and we feel confident there. think the quarterbacks have taken well to what Dave (Cecchini) has been teaching them as well. One area we need to keep getting better is in the kicking game. All spring we were able to put those guys in tough situations and that needs to continue. It’s only going to get them better.”
Lehigh will open preseason camp in early August with the 2010 season opener slated for Saturday, September 4 versus Drake in Des Moines, Iowa. The contest will be broadcast live on ESPN Radio 1230 and 1320 as well as Lehighsports.com.
Eagles' Nate Allen press conference transcript
On whether he has caught his breath yet:
“I think I got it now.”
On what the last 24 hours have been like:
“It’s been a whirlwind, but it’s been a good experience and it’s a dream come true. I’m just taking it all in and just enjoying every bit of it.”
“It’s been a whirlwind, but it’s been a good experience and it’s a dream come true. I’m just taking it all in and just enjoying every bit of it.”
On when he realizes that it’s time to get to work:
“Today. Especially when I got in and was looking a little bit at the playbook, just a small bit of it, and I realized that it finally came to me. It’s my job now. I have to get going and learn as much as I can and just get ready for camp next week.”
“Today. Especially when I got in and was looking a little bit at the playbook, just a small bit of it, and I realized that it finally came to me. It’s my job now. I have to get going and learn as much as I can and just get ready for camp next week.”
On how he will deal with the fact that most of the fan base will refer to him at the beginning as the guy the Eagles got for Donovan McNabb:
“It’s an honor to even be mentioned in the same sentence as Donovan. I’m just going to come in and be myself and just try to help the Eagles win in whatever way I can. [I will] play whatever position and just help them win a Super Bowl.”
“It’s an honor to even be mentioned in the same sentence as Donovan. I’m just going to come in and be myself and just try to help the Eagles win in whatever way I can. [I will] play whatever position and just help them win a Super Bowl.”
On the wisdom that defensive quality control coach Mike Zordich passed down to him:
“Take every bit of this and enjoy it. Just learn as much as you can.”
“Take every bit of this and enjoy it. Just learn as much as you can.”
On whether he knows former Eagle J.R. Reed well:
“He was my GA down at South Florida. He had coached me a little bit. I actually haven’t talked to him since I got drafted. He texted me, but I haven’t gotten the chance to call him, but I’m going to make sure I get on the phone with him and talk to him a little bit. He knows [defensive coordinator Sean] McDermott really well and everybody.”
“He was my GA down at South Florida. He had coached me a little bit. I actually haven’t talked to him since I got drafted. He texted me, but I haven’t gotten the chance to call him, but I’m going to make sure I get on the phone with him and talk to him a little bit. He knows [defensive coordinator Sean] McDermott really well and everybody.”
On his ability to cover at his position:
“I definitely feel confident with my cover skills. Whatever I’m needed to do, I’ll do it. Whether it’s to come down and cover the slot guy, tight end, I feel confident enough to do it.”
“I definitely feel confident with my cover skills. Whatever I’m needed to do, I’ll do it. Whether it’s to come down and cover the slot guy, tight end, I feel confident enough to do it.”
On whether he was concerned that not running the 40-yard dash would hurt his draft stock:
“I was a little bit, but my big goal was to just make it to a camp; make it to the rookie camp. I didn’t want to pull it and then set myself back even more and not be able to come in and get to work right away and still be worrying about my quad.”
“I was a little bit, but my big goal was to just make it to a camp; make it to the rookie camp. I didn’t want to pull it and then set myself back even more and not be able to come in and get to work right away and still be worrying about my quad.”
On whether he pulled his quad before the combine:
“Yeah, like two weeks, a week before the combine.”
“Yeah, like two weeks, a week before the combine.”
On whether he feels that he will be ready for camp next week:
“Definitely, definitely. I think I’ll be ready to go pretty much, do mostly everything.”
“Definitely, definitely. I think I’ll be ready to go pretty much, do mostly everything.”
On the possibility of moving to cornerback:
“Definitely. I worked a little bit at South Florida at corner. I didn’t play in any games at corner, but I definitely feel like I have the ability to play corner and wherever they need me.”
“Definitely. I worked a little bit at South Florida at corner. I didn’t play in any games at corner, but I definitely feel like I have the ability to play corner and wherever they need me.”
On whether he has followed the career of Brian Dawkins:
“Oh yeah. He’s Brian Dawkins. You don’t need to say much. They said something about it, and it’s an honor to be mentioned in the same sentence as him, too. I’m just going to come in and be myself and play my game and just try to help the team win.”
“Oh yeah. He’s Brian Dawkins. You don’t need to say much. They said something about it, and it’s an honor to be mentioned in the same sentence as him, too. I’m just going to come in and be myself and play my game and just try to help the team win.”
On whether there are any safeties that he patterns his game after:
“I don’t know, not really. I like the way Darren Sharper plays. A few guys, but I just try to play my own game and just be myself.”
“I don’t know, not really. I like the way Darren Sharper plays. A few guys, but I just try to play my own game and just be myself.”
On whether he played special teams early in his career at South Florida:
“Yeah, that was actually my freshman year, that’s all I played was special teams, started on everything. South Florida, mostly all the [defensive backs], we were on all the special teams. So, I’m real comfortable with playing special teams.”
“Yeah, that was actually my freshman year, that’s all I played was special teams, started on everything. South Florida, mostly all the [defensive backs], we were on all the special teams. So, I’m real comfortable with playing special teams.”
On coming to a team that is very young:
“That’s definitely a positive. I was talking to coach [Andy] Reid this morning and that’s what he said. He’s trying to get a youth movement in here and I definitely think it will be a good thing.”
“That’s definitely a positive. I was talking to coach [Andy] Reid this morning and that’s what he said. He’s trying to get a youth movement in here and I definitely think it will be a good thing.”
On whether he has talked to any of the other Eagles draft picks:
“Not yet, I haven’t seen any of them yet. I was hoping to see them around, but I haven’t seen them yet.”
“Not yet, I haven’t seen any of them yet. I was hoping to see them around, but I haven’t seen them yet.”
Eagles' DE Sapp talks with media
On what the “bandit” linebacker position entails:
“It’s more like a linebacker [than a defensive end], because we drop back in coverage and we also rush the passer.”
On whether he did more dropping back into coverage or rushing the passer:
“I think about even. I think I did even. I do them both.”
On whether he thinks the Eagles want him to play linebacker or defensive end:
“I’m not sure. I’m pretty sure they want me to rush the passer because that’s what I do best. I’m just excited and ready to go to work.”
On how his day has been considering he was expected to be drafted higher than he did (134th overall):
“It’s been a little frustrating. I’m just excited that the Eagles took pride, and took me. So I’m just ready to go to work and be an Eagle.”
On why teams may have been scared off and chose not to pick him:
“Well, I’m not sure what scared them away, because I went to the combine and pretty much showed them my knee was healthy, so I’m not sure what they’re scared of, but I know the Eagles took a chance on me, so I’m just going to prove everybody else wrong.”
On his knee injury as a junior at Clemson:
“I tore my ACL in November of 2008. I came back and played a full season on my knee at about 60% percent—I really should have sat out a couple of games, until I got that right, but I really wanted to play so it kind of hurt me a little bit. I guess that’s why I went kind of low, but everything works out for the best, and I know God had a plan all along, so I’m just excited to be in the situation that I’m in.”
On the opportunity to compete against the other defensive players that the Eagles have drafted:
“I look at it as a great opportunity. They got Brandon Graham, who is a great player, and a couple of other defensive ends, I think at the end of the day, we are all going to bring the pressure and get to the quarterback.”
On whether he knows much about the Eagles defense or if he met with any of the coaches:
“Yes, I met with the coaches at the combine. Don’t know much about the defense. I know Trent Cole is one of the best defensive linemen, so I’m just excited to come in and learn from him, and go to work.”
On whether he knows if the Eagles see him as a linebacker or defensive end:
“No sir, I’m not sure at all.”
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