PHILADELPHIA, PA. – The 76ers have signed guard Shelvin Mack to a 10-day contract as a replacement for Villanova product Maalik Wayns, whose 10-day deal expired.
Mack (6-foot-3, 215) was originally the 34th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by Washington. He spent all of last season with the Wizards being waived prior to the start of the 2012-13 season. Mack re-signed with Washington on Christmas Day and appeared in seven games before being waived on January 7.
In 71 career games with two starts, Mack has averaged 3.8 points, 2.2 assists and 1.5 rebounds in 13.0 minutes per game while shooting 40.0% from the floor, 29.1% from 3-point range and 70.5% from the line. For his career, he has a 2.75 assist-to-turnover ratio.
In 14 games for the Maine Red Claws of the D-League this season, Mack averaged 20.5 points, 8.0 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.43 steals while shooting 46.2% from the floor, 41.8% from 3-point range and 89.6% from the line. He ranks third in the D-League in scoring and first in assists.
Wayns appeared in 21 games for the Sixers, averaging 2.7 points and 1.0 assists in 7.9 minutes per game.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Flyers announce broadcast schedule
The Flyers have announced their 2012-13 television and radio broadcast schedules, in conjunction with broadcast partners Comcast SportsNet, NBC, 97.5 The Fanatic and 93.3 WMMR.
The Flyers will open the 2012-13 NHL season with a weekend of action on NBC. The January 19 season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins will be carried regionally by NBC beginning at 3 p.m, followed by a national telecast on Sunday, January 20 at the Buffalo Sabres beginning at 12:30 p.m. The Flyers are slated for five other national broadcasts over the course of the season on the NBC Sports Network.
Comcast SportsNet will air the remaining 41 games of the Flyers season, all in high-definition. The Emmy-Award winning broadcast team of Jim Jackson, Steve Coates, Keith Jones and Bill Clement return to bring viewers all the action from the puck drop to the final horn. The latest in X-MO camera technology will provide state of the art frame-rate adjusted HD slo-motion replays. In addition several select home telecasts will feature players wearing a microphone during the game to bring the viewer unprecedented access. Comcast SportsNet’s broadcast schedule begins on Tuesday, January 22 when the Flyers visit the New Jersey Devils at 7:30 p.m.
On the radio side, the Flyers will begin their new partnership with 97.5 The Fanatic when the puck drops on the new season this Saturday against Pittsburgh. Tim Saunders and Chris Therien return to handle broadcast duties this season. For the first time, every Flyers game this season will be broadcast on FM radio, with 35 carried by 97.5 The Fanatic. The remaining 13 games will be broadcast on legendary Philadelphia rock station 93.3 WMMR, the first of which is scheduled for Tuesday, January 22 at New Jersey at 7:30 p.m.
Flyers fans will also have the chance to catch the open practice at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday, January 17 on Comcast SportsNet. CSNPhilly.com will broadcast live at 6 p.m. and Comcast SportsNet will join live at 6:30 p.m. Fans will hear from the players and coaches throughout the broadcast. The Open Skate will replay on The Comcast Network on Thursday, January 17 at 11 p.m. and on Comcast SportsNet on Friday, January 18 at 2 p.m.
The Flyers will open the 2012-13 NHL season with a weekend of action on NBC. The January 19 season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins will be carried regionally by NBC beginning at 3 p.m, followed by a national telecast on Sunday, January 20 at the Buffalo Sabres beginning at 12:30 p.m. The Flyers are slated for five other national broadcasts over the course of the season on the NBC Sports Network.
Comcast SportsNet will air the remaining 41 games of the Flyers season, all in high-definition. The Emmy-Award winning broadcast team of Jim Jackson, Steve Coates, Keith Jones and Bill Clement return to bring viewers all the action from the puck drop to the final horn. The latest in X-MO camera technology will provide state of the art frame-rate adjusted HD slo-motion replays. In addition several select home telecasts will feature players wearing a microphone during the game to bring the viewer unprecedented access. Comcast SportsNet’s broadcast schedule begins on Tuesday, January 22 when the Flyers visit the New Jersey Devils at 7:30 p.m.
On the radio side, the Flyers will begin their new partnership with 97.5 The Fanatic when the puck drops on the new season this Saturday against Pittsburgh. Tim Saunders and Chris Therien return to handle broadcast duties this season. For the first time, every Flyers game this season will be broadcast on FM radio, with 35 carried by 97.5 The Fanatic. The remaining 13 games will be broadcast on legendary Philadelphia rock station 93.3 WMMR, the first of which is scheduled for Tuesday, January 22 at New Jersey at 7:30 p.m.
Flyers fans will also have the chance to catch the open practice at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday, January 17 on Comcast SportsNet. CSNPhilly.com will broadcast live at 6 p.m. and Comcast SportsNet will join live at 6:30 p.m. Fans will hear from the players and coaches throughout the broadcast. The Open Skate will replay on The Comcast Network on Thursday, January 17 at 11 p.m. and on Comcast SportsNet on Friday, January 18 at 2 p.m.
Boucher and Lilja clear waivers
As expected, both Brian Boucher and Andreas Lilja have cleared waivers, and will shortly join the Phantoms in Adirondack.
It was reported on Wednesday by Michael Cignoli of the Saratogian that Boucher will wear uniform #1.
It was reported on Wednesday by Michael Cignoli of the Saratogian that Boucher will wear uniform #1.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Kelly green is back
Philadelphia, PA - Evidently Phil Knight isn't the best owner in "professional" sports.
Chip Kelly will be packing up his Nike visor and leaving the cozy confines of
Eugene, Ore., for the rough-and-tumble East Coast, specifically Philadelphia
and its notoriously tough media market.
Kelly, unequivocally the Eagles' first choice to replace Andy Reid as the
team's head coach, swerved us all by originally spurning Philly, along with
Cleveland and Buffalo, to "return" to the University of Oregon earlier this
month.
Whether possible NCAA sanctions, the assurance of power greater than oft-
ridiculed Eagles general manager Howie Roseman or money played into Kelly's
180 will be answered in the coming months, but one thing is certain -- Jeffrey
Lurie pulled out a big win for a franchise which was starting to look rather
amateurish.
Kelly originally met with the Eagles owner, team president Don Smolenski and
Roseman in Arizona after Oregon's Fiesta Bowl win over Kansas State. The two
sides met for almost nine hours in a wide-ranging discussion touching on
football philosophy as well as management and organizational values and ideas.
Lurie was obviously smitten with Kelly, who eventually turned down the Eagles'
offer. Plan B for the franchise, Penn State head coach Bill O'Brien, decided
to stay in State College and Plan C, Notre Dame mentor Brian Kelly, felt South
Bend remained the best option for him.
It was looking like such a circus at one point that the Eagles' public
relations staff felt the need to fire off a statement back on Jan. 12 after
Brian Kelly decided to stay with the Fighting Irish.
"There is no question we spent a considerable amount of time and effort
looking at who we thought were the best collegiate candidates for our head
coaching job," the statement read. "We did so knowing that there was a remote
chance that these coaches would leave their current posts.
"We understood that going into the process, but we wanted to leave no stone
unturned while trying to find the best head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles.
We have no regrets about the effort we made in that direction and we will
continue to proceed as planned in our search."
It was an unconventional way to handle things. The typical tact would have
been to decide on a candidate and then spin him as the next Bill Belichick
even if the guy was 10th on the list.
The Eagles also interviewed Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan,
Falcons special teams coach Keith Armstrong, Denver Broncos offensive
coordinator Mike McCoy, former Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith and former
Baltimore Ravens coach Brian Billick. They conducted a second interview on
Tuesday of this week with Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley
after meeting with former Arizona Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt and Cincinnati
Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden a day earlier.
But give Lurie credit. While doing his due diligence on the available
candidates, he couldn't help shaking the feeling that most of the innovation
in football these days is taking place at the college level. And to be fair,
he's right.
Lurie and his lieutenants never stopped trying to sway Chip Kelly and "remote"
turned into reality on Wednesday.
Kelly's loyalty to his kids at Oregon and the university itself can certainly
be questioned, but what's indisputable is that he is on the cutting edge of
offense, an aggressive, relentless play-caller who Belichick swears by and has
taken the time to bring in and pick his mind.
"Chip Kelly will be an outstanding head coach for the Eagles," Lurie said. "He
has a brilliant football mind. He motivates his team with his actions as well
as his words. He will be a great leader for us and will bring a fresh energetic
approach to our team."
Outsiders look at Philadelphia's quarterback situation and say Nick Foles is
not a fit for a Kelly offense, which relied on the read-option and spread
philosophies at Oregon.
But, that's not what Kelly is about. He's first and foremost an up-tempo guy.
He wants to run 80 to 90 plays a game compared to your 60 and immobile
quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning have certainly flourished by
playing basketball on cleats in the NFL.
Kelly can work with Foles, or any other signal-caller for that matter, as long
as they have the mental capacity to create tempo, either by speeding things up
and limiting defensive substitutions or slowing things down and using pinpoint
accuracy to shred zone concepts. By limiting substitutions in today's
specialized NFL world, you can put an incredible strain on any defense and its
ability to handle a spread formation.
That's not to say Foles is the answer in Philadelphia but to pigeon-hole Kelly
as a guy who needs an athletic, movement-heavy quarterback like Colin
Kaepernick, Russell Wilson or RG3 is incorrect.
Under Kelly in 2012, Oregon averaged nearly 50 points per game (49.6) and his
four-year scoring average with the Ducks was a whopping 44.7 points per
contest.
That kind of production is not going to happen in the NFL, but Lurie is banking
on Kelly's offense to bring excitement and energy back to his franchise.
Chip Kelly will be packing up his Nike visor and leaving the cozy confines of
Eugene, Ore., for the rough-and-tumble East Coast, specifically Philadelphia
and its notoriously tough media market.
Kelly, unequivocally the Eagles' first choice to replace Andy Reid as the
team's head coach, swerved us all by originally spurning Philly, along with
Cleveland and Buffalo, to "return" to the University of Oregon earlier this
month.
Whether possible NCAA sanctions, the assurance of power greater than oft-
ridiculed Eagles general manager Howie Roseman or money played into Kelly's
180 will be answered in the coming months, but one thing is certain -- Jeffrey
Lurie pulled out a big win for a franchise which was starting to look rather
amateurish.
Kelly originally met with the Eagles owner, team president Don Smolenski and
Roseman in Arizona after Oregon's Fiesta Bowl win over Kansas State. The two
sides met for almost nine hours in a wide-ranging discussion touching on
football philosophy as well as management and organizational values and ideas.
Lurie was obviously smitten with Kelly, who eventually turned down the Eagles'
offer. Plan B for the franchise, Penn State head coach Bill O'Brien, decided
to stay in State College and Plan C, Notre Dame mentor Brian Kelly, felt South
Bend remained the best option for him.
It was looking like such a circus at one point that the Eagles' public
relations staff felt the need to fire off a statement back on Jan. 12 after
Brian Kelly decided to stay with the Fighting Irish.
"There is no question we spent a considerable amount of time and effort
looking at who we thought were the best collegiate candidates for our head
coaching job," the statement read. "We did so knowing that there was a remote
chance that these coaches would leave their current posts.
"We understood that going into the process, but we wanted to leave no stone
unturned while trying to find the best head coach for the Philadelphia Eagles.
We have no regrets about the effort we made in that direction and we will
continue to proceed as planned in our search."
It was an unconventional way to handle things. The typical tact would have
been to decide on a candidate and then spin him as the next Bill Belichick
even if the guy was 10th on the list.
The Eagles also interviewed Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Mike Nolan,
Falcons special teams coach Keith Armstrong, Denver Broncos offensive
coordinator Mike McCoy, former Chicago Bears coach Lovie Smith and former
Baltimore Ravens coach Brian Billick. They conducted a second interview on
Tuesday of this week with Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Gus Bradley
after meeting with former Arizona Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt and Cincinnati
Bengals offensive coordinator Jay Gruden a day earlier.
But give Lurie credit. While doing his due diligence on the available
candidates, he couldn't help shaking the feeling that most of the innovation
in football these days is taking place at the college level. And to be fair,
he's right.
Lurie and his lieutenants never stopped trying to sway Chip Kelly and "remote"
turned into reality on Wednesday.
Kelly's loyalty to his kids at Oregon and the university itself can certainly
be questioned, but what's indisputable is that he is on the cutting edge of
offense, an aggressive, relentless play-caller who Belichick swears by and has
taken the time to bring in and pick his mind.
"Chip Kelly will be an outstanding head coach for the Eagles," Lurie said. "He
has a brilliant football mind. He motivates his team with his actions as well
as his words. He will be a great leader for us and will bring a fresh energetic
approach to our team."
Outsiders look at Philadelphia's quarterback situation and say Nick Foles is
not a fit for a Kelly offense, which relied on the read-option and spread
philosophies at Oregon.
But, that's not what Kelly is about. He's first and foremost an up-tempo guy.
He wants to run 80 to 90 plays a game compared to your 60 and immobile
quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning have certainly flourished by
playing basketball on cleats in the NFL.
Kelly can work with Foles, or any other signal-caller for that matter, as long
as they have the mental capacity to create tempo, either by speeding things up
and limiting defensive substitutions or slowing things down and using pinpoint
accuracy to shred zone concepts. By limiting substitutions in today's
specialized NFL world, you can put an incredible strain on any defense and its
ability to handle a spread formation.
That's not to say Foles is the answer in Philadelphia but to pigeon-hole Kelly
as a guy who needs an athletic, movement-heavy quarterback like Colin
Kaepernick, Russell Wilson or RG3 is incorrect.
Under Kelly in 2012, Oregon averaged nearly 50 points per game (49.6) and his
four-year scoring average with the Ducks was a whopping 44.7 points per
contest.
That kind of production is not going to happen in the NFL, but Lurie is banking
on Kelly's offense to bring excitement and energy back to his franchise.
Boucher, Lilja on waivers, both expected to join Phantoms
Both goaltender Brian Boucher and defenseman Andreas Lilja were placed on waivers by the Flyers on Wednesday, both as mere formalities to clear their respective paths to the AHL.
Since both players are far removed from their entry-level deals, the new CBA requires that they be placed on waivers and then clear before taking the ice in the minor leagues.
Flyers assistant GM Barry Hanrahan has stated that Lilja's NHL cap hit will not count against the big club for however long he stays with the Phantoms.
Since both players are far removed from their entry-level deals, the new CBA requires that they be placed on waivers and then clear before taking the ice in the minor leagues.
Flyers assistant GM Barry Hanrahan has stated that Lilja's NHL cap hit will not count against the big club for however long he stays with the Phantoms.
Former Flyers D O'Donnell hangs up the skates
It came in the form of a tweet from a Francophone Montreal writer, but all the same, it reads that veteran defenseman Sean O'Donnell has decided to retire.
From Mathias Brunet of La Presse: "La defenseur Sean O'Donnell prend sa retraite."
The Ottawa native played one season in Philadelphia, an 81-game slate during the 2010-11 season in which he tallied one goal -- in a January contest against his former team, the Bruins -- and 18 points with 87 penalty minutes.
O'Donnell spent last season with the Chicago Blackhawks, picking up seven assists in 51 appearances.
Over a 17-year NHL career, the rangy stay-at-home blueliner and instant quote machine picked up 31 goals and 229 points while taking part in 1,224 games with Los Angeles (1994-2000; 08-09), New Jersey (2000-01), Minnesota (2001), Boston (2001-04), Phoenix (2005-06), Anaheim (2005-08), Philly and Chicago.
From Mathias Brunet of La Presse: "La defenseur Sean O'Donnell prend sa retraite."
The Ottawa native played one season in Philadelphia, an 81-game slate during the 2010-11 season in which he tallied one goal -- in a January contest against his former team, the Bruins -- and 18 points with 87 penalty minutes.
O'Donnell spent last season with the Chicago Blackhawks, picking up seven assists in 51 appearances.
Over a 17-year NHL career, the rangy stay-at-home blueliner and instant quote machine picked up 31 goals and 229 points while taking part in 1,224 games with Los Angeles (1994-2000; 08-09), New Jersey (2000-01), Minnesota (2001), Boston (2001-04), Phoenix (2005-06), Anaheim (2005-08), Philly and Chicago.
Temple names Snow defensive coordinator
PHILADELPHIA - Temple University head football coach Matt Rhule announced the additions of Phil Snow as defensive coordinator and Jeremy Scott as head strength and conditioning coach to his staff on Tuesday.
Snow, who worked with Rhule at UCLA in 2001, joins the Owls after three seasons as the defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach at Eastern Michigan.
“When I had the opportunity to return to Temple, I could not have wanted to bring any coach to North Broad Street more than Phil Snow,” Rhule said. “In my one year with Coach Snow at UCLA, a year in which he engineered a defensive turnaround in his first season there and led the Pac 10 in several defensive categories, I saw first-hand what he could bring to a defense and to its players. Not only does he bring NFL coaching experience, 20 years of experience as a defensive coordinator at the Division 1 level, including 13 in the PAC-10, multiple players winning conference player of the year honors and many more moving on to NFL careers; he is one of the finest teachers I have ever been around. The defensive turnaround at Eastern Michigan in 2012 leading to that program’s first non-losing season in years once again proved that Phil has the ability to develop and train great defensive players at all levels. Our coaches, players, and program will benefit daily from his presence.”
Scott comes to North Broad Street after 14 seasons at Penn State where he worked with Rhule during his playing days.
“I have known Jeremy Scott forever,” Rhule said. “His expertise in speed, strength, and agility will benefit our team for years to come. We are happy that he has joined our team.”
The Owls begin spring practice in March in preparation for their second season of BIG EAST Conference play in 2013. Temple returns 46 letterwinners and 15 starters, including Freshman All-American and BIG EAST Rookie of the Year Tyler Matakevich. The Owls open the 2013 slate at Notre Dame on August 31.
Snow, who worked with Rhule at UCLA in 2001, joins the Owls after three seasons as the defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach at Eastern Michigan.
“When I had the opportunity to return to Temple, I could not have wanted to bring any coach to North Broad Street more than Phil Snow,” Rhule said. “In my one year with Coach Snow at UCLA, a year in which he engineered a defensive turnaround in his first season there and led the Pac 10 in several defensive categories, I saw first-hand what he could bring to a defense and to its players. Not only does he bring NFL coaching experience, 20 years of experience as a defensive coordinator at the Division 1 level, including 13 in the PAC-10, multiple players winning conference player of the year honors and many more moving on to NFL careers; he is one of the finest teachers I have ever been around. The defensive turnaround at Eastern Michigan in 2012 leading to that program’s first non-losing season in years once again proved that Phil has the ability to develop and train great defensive players at all levels. Our coaches, players, and program will benefit daily from his presence.”
Scott comes to North Broad Street after 14 seasons at Penn State where he worked with Rhule during his playing days.
“I have known Jeremy Scott forever,” Rhule said. “His expertise in speed, strength, and agility will benefit our team for years to come. We are happy that he has joined our team.”
The Owls begin spring practice in March in preparation for their second season of BIG EAST Conference play in 2013. Temple returns 46 letterwinners and 15 starters, including Freshman All-American and BIG EAST Rookie of the Year Tyler Matakevich. The Owls open the 2013 slate at Notre Dame on August 31.
Union loan Valdes to Independiente Santa Fe
Chester, Pa. – The Philadelphia Union have announced an agreement with Colombia’s Independiente Santa Fe that will send defender Carlos Valdes on loan for the length of the Liga Postobon Primera A season.
The move comes as Valdes sought a club closer to home in hopes of a call to the Colombian national team. All this arrives ahead of the final phase of CONMEBOL qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Colombia’s first division began its campaign yesterday, granting Valdes the chance to gain immediate exposure in front of Colombian national team coach Jose Pekerman.
"We will certainly miss Carlos for this season, but this is a unique situation,” said Philadelphia Union Team Manager John Hackworth. “We have done everything possible to make sure this move works for both the player and our club. Our hope is that this allows Carlos the best chance of reaching his dream of playing in the 2014 World Cup."
Valdes, 27, joined Philadelphia on loan from Santa Fe on Jan. 20, 2011. Seven months later on Aug. 5, 2011, the Union secured the full rights to Valdes who was instrumental in leading the club to its first postseason appearance.
This past season, Valdes appeared in 33 matches, and scored two goals. Along with midfielder Michael Farfan, Valdes represented the Union as an MLS All-Star. His play also earned Valdes recurrent Colombian national team call-ups for both friendlies and FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
The move comes as Valdes sought a club closer to home in hopes of a call to the Colombian national team. All this arrives ahead of the final phase of CONMEBOL qualifying for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Colombia’s first division began its campaign yesterday, granting Valdes the chance to gain immediate exposure in front of Colombian national team coach Jose Pekerman.
"We will certainly miss Carlos for this season, but this is a unique situation,” said Philadelphia Union Team Manager John Hackworth. “We have done everything possible to make sure this move works for both the player and our club. Our hope is that this allows Carlos the best chance of reaching his dream of playing in the 2014 World Cup."
Valdes, 27, joined Philadelphia on loan from Santa Fe on Jan. 20, 2011. Seven months later on Aug. 5, 2011, the Union secured the full rights to Valdes who was instrumental in leading the club to its first postseason appearance.
This past season, Valdes appeared in 33 matches, and scored two goals. Along with midfielder Michael Farfan, Valdes represented the Union as an MLS All-Star. His play also earned Valdes recurrent Colombian national team call-ups for both friendlies and FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Eagles sign former Packers OT Allen Barbre.
The Eagles have signed offensive tackle Allen Barbre.
Barbre (6-foot-4,305) has appeared in 32 games with seven starts over his six-year NFL career, splitting time between Green Bay (2007-09), Miami (2010) and Seattle (2010-12).
Originally drafted by Green Bay in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL draft, Barbre spent three years with the Packers prior to being released as part of the team’s final roster cutdown in 2010. He signed with Seattle on 9/23/10 and appeared in three games for the Seahawks before being released on 11/23/10. After a brief stint with the Dolphins, Barbre re-signed with Seattle on 11/24/11 and saw action in the final four games of the 2011 season. He was released by the Seahawks on 10/1/12.
A native of Neosho, MO, Barbre was a four-year starter at Missouri Southern State where he started 36 of 38 contests. Named a consensus All-American, All-Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association and All-Region first-team selection as a senior in 2006, he helped anchor the Lions offensive line at the left tackle position while also playing a key role on special teams.
Barbre (6-foot-4,305) has appeared in 32 games with seven starts over his six-year NFL career, splitting time between Green Bay (2007-09), Miami (2010) and Seattle (2010-12).
Originally drafted by Green Bay in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL draft, Barbre spent three years with the Packers prior to being released as part of the team’s final roster cutdown in 2010. He signed with Seattle on 9/23/10 and appeared in three games for the Seahawks before being released on 11/23/10. After a brief stint with the Dolphins, Barbre re-signed with Seattle on 11/24/11 and saw action in the final four games of the 2011 season. He was released by the Seahawks on 10/1/12.
A native of Neosho, MO, Barbre was a four-year starter at Missouri Southern State where he started 36 of 38 contests. Named a consensus All-American, All-Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association and All-Region first-team selection as a senior in 2006, he helped anchor the Lions offensive line at the left tackle position while also playing a key role on special teams.
Temple's Anthony Lee named Philadelphia Big 5 Player of the Week
PHILADELPHIA – Temple University sophomore forward Anthony Lee has been named the Philadelphia Big 5 Player of the Week for the week ending January 13. It is the first weekly player of the week honor in his career. He had earned two Atlantic 10 Conference Rookie of the Week citations during the 2011-12 season.
Lee averaged 17.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game in a 1-1 week for the Temple Owls. Against Saint Louis (1/12), the Columbia, Md. native posted his second 20-point game of his career and third double-double (20 pts, 10 rebs) in helping snap the Billikens' nine-game win streak with a 64-54 TU win. In the Owls other contest, he was the team's leading scorer and rebounder with 15 points and seven boards in a 57-52 loss at Xavier (1/10).
On the season, he averages 12.2 points and 7.3 rebounds, ranking second on the team in each category. He also tops the Owls in field goal percentage (66-122, .541) and is second in blocks (13).
Lee averaged 17.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game in a 1-1 week for the Temple Owls. Against Saint Louis (1/12), the Columbia, Md. native posted his second 20-point game of his career and third double-double (20 pts, 10 rebs) in helping snap the Billikens' nine-game win streak with a 64-54 TU win. In the Owls other contest, he was the team's leading scorer and rebounder with 15 points and seven boards in a 57-52 loss at Xavier (1/10).
On the season, he averages 12.2 points and 7.3 rebounds, ranking second on the team in each category. He also tops the Owls in field goal percentage (66-122, .541) and is second in blocks (13).
Soul bring back LB Perkins
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul and the Arena Football League announce that linebacker Brandon Perkins will return to the team’s roster in 2013. The former Kansas Jayhawk, who is entering his third season with the Soul, agreed to a two-year contract.
The six-year veteran played in 11 games with the Soul last season and had 18.0 total tackles, was No. 2 on the team in tackles for loss (8.0) and No. 3 on the team in sacks (4.0).
“Brandon is a ‘cornerstone-type’ player that we can build around,” said Soul general manager Tom Goodhines. “He is one of the best ‘mack’ linebackers in the game and has the unique ability to make his teammates better by creating opportunities through the way he plays the game. He is the type of player an organization is proud to have – both on and off the field.”
Prior to playing with the Soul, the former Kansas Jayhawk played one season with the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz (2010) and registered 14.5 total tackles, two and a half sacks, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Prior to playing in Oklahoma City, Perkins played two seasons with the Los Angeles Avengers (2007-08). His best season came in 2008 with the Avengers where he recorded a career-high with 52.0 total tackles, adding five sacks, three pass breakups and two forced fumbles.
As an AFL rookie in 2007, he was a mainstay for the Avengers at the “mack” linebacker spot. Perkins finished the year with 31.0 total tackles and one interception. Perkins also saw some action on offense as a receiver in the “jumbo” package the Avengers used periodically near the goal line
One of the best pass rushers in school history, Perkins played in 46 games for the University of Kansas (Lawrence, Kan.). He finished his collegiate career with a total of 20.0 quarterback sacks, tying him for No. 3 on Kansas’ all-time chart. As a senior in 2005, Perkins set a Jayhawk single-game record with five sacks versus Louisiana Tech.
The six-year veteran played in 11 games with the Soul last season and had 18.0 total tackles, was No. 2 on the team in tackles for loss (8.0) and No. 3 on the team in sacks (4.0).
“Brandon is a ‘cornerstone-type’ player that we can build around,” said Soul general manager Tom Goodhines. “He is one of the best ‘mack’ linebackers in the game and has the unique ability to make his teammates better by creating opportunities through the way he plays the game. He is the type of player an organization is proud to have – both on and off the field.”
Prior to playing with the Soul, the former Kansas Jayhawk played one season with the Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz (2010) and registered 14.5 total tackles, two and a half sacks, one forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Prior to playing in Oklahoma City, Perkins played two seasons with the Los Angeles Avengers (2007-08). His best season came in 2008 with the Avengers where he recorded a career-high with 52.0 total tackles, adding five sacks, three pass breakups and two forced fumbles.
As an AFL rookie in 2007, he was a mainstay for the Avengers at the “mack” linebacker spot. Perkins finished the year with 31.0 total tackles and one interception. Perkins also saw some action on offense as a receiver in the “jumbo” package the Avengers used periodically near the goal line
One of the best pass rushers in school history, Perkins played in 46 games for the University of Kansas (Lawrence, Kan.). He finished his collegiate career with a total of 20.0 quarterback sacks, tying him for No. 3 on Kansas’ all-time chart. As a senior in 2005, Perkins set a Jayhawk single-game record with five sacks versus Louisiana Tech.
Temple to celebrate 60 years of Al Shrier
PHILADELPHIA – Temple University Athletics will celebrate 60 years of the most decorated sports information director in the history of intercollegiate athletics during its men’s basketball game against Penn on January 23, announced TU Director of Athletics Bill Bradshaw.
“There is no more beloved figure in Temple University, or for that matter Philadelphia collegiate athletics than Al Shrier,” said Bradshaw. “Al graduated from Temple in 1953 and never left, dedicating his life to promoting what is positive in college athletics and in particular Temple student-athletes and coaches. He is the epitome of Temple Made.”
Commemorative document bags, a Shrier trademark, will be given out to the first 2,000 fans that attend the game. There will also be a pregame reception honoring the iconic athletic administrator.
The longest active College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) member, Shrier received the organization’s Arch Ward Award, presented to the best SID on the nation, in 2010. It is one of many honors in his legendary career. He is a member of the CoSIDA Hall of Fame, the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, the Philadelphia Big 5 Hall of Fame, the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame and the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.
The Philadelphia native was named the recipient of the 2009 Pete Nevins Award for Distinguished Achievement given annually by The Eastern College Athletics Conference-Sports Information Directors Association (ECAC-SIDA). He has also earned ECAC-SIDA’s Irving T. Marsh and Katha Quinn Awards.
He has also been honored by the Atlantic 10 Conference with its Bob Vetrone Media Award in 2009.
In 2004, in commemoration of 50 years of service, Temple gave away Al Shrier Bobblehead Dolls at a men’s basketball game, a rare tribute to an athletic administrator. In 2010, to mark his 80th birthday, the University had an Al Shrier Roast, with Bill Cosby being one of the roasters.
Shrier is past president of the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association and the Media Room at The Liacouras Center is named in his honor. He received the Lew Klein Alumni in the Media Award from the Temple School of Communications.
“There is no more beloved figure in Temple University, or for that matter Philadelphia collegiate athletics than Al Shrier,” said Bradshaw. “Al graduated from Temple in 1953 and never left, dedicating his life to promoting what is positive in college athletics and in particular Temple student-athletes and coaches. He is the epitome of Temple Made.”
Commemorative document bags, a Shrier trademark, will be given out to the first 2,000 fans that attend the game. There will also be a pregame reception honoring the iconic athletic administrator.
The longest active College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) member, Shrier received the organization’s Arch Ward Award, presented to the best SID on the nation, in 2010. It is one of many honors in his legendary career. He is a member of the CoSIDA Hall of Fame, the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, the Philadelphia Big 5 Hall of Fame, the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame and the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.
The Philadelphia native was named the recipient of the 2009 Pete Nevins Award for Distinguished Achievement given annually by The Eastern College Athletics Conference-Sports Information Directors Association (ECAC-SIDA). He has also earned ECAC-SIDA’s Irving T. Marsh and Katha Quinn Awards.
He has also been honored by the Atlantic 10 Conference with its Bob Vetrone Media Award in 2009.
In 2004, in commemoration of 50 years of service, Temple gave away Al Shrier Bobblehead Dolls at a men’s basketball game, a rare tribute to an athletic administrator. In 2010, to mark his 80th birthday, the University had an Al Shrier Roast, with Bill Cosby being one of the roasters.
Shrier is past president of the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association and the Media Room at The Liacouras Center is named in his honor. He received the Lew Klein Alumni in the Media Award from the Temple School of Communications.
Soul add WR Thurman
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Soul announced the addition of Andrae Thurman to the 2013 roster.
Thurman, a four-year veteran wide receiver, will join the Soul for the next two seasons.
The wide receiver is coming off a career-best season with the Arizona Rattlers and Milwaukee Mustangs. Thurman’s combined totals from both teams included: 72 receptions for 1,026 yards and 24 touchdowns before being placed on the Injured Reserve in Week 16.
“Andrae is a very talented receiver that is familiar with our system and adds another weapon on offense,” says Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “He is the perfect complement to Tiger (Jones) and will allow us to do more and provide a greater challenge to the opposing teams.”
Thurman’s career numbers include: 163 receptions for 2,163 yards and 51 touchdowns. He began his career with the Dallas Desperados (2007-08) before signing with the Arizona Rattlers (2012). With Arizona, Thurman started in three games before being traded to Milwaukee where he finished the season.
During his college years, Thurman played three seasons at the University of Arizona, before finishing his senior year at Southern Oregon. From 2004-05, Thurman had six stints in the NFL with five different teams. During the 2005 season, Thurman recorded his best NFL season by playing in 10 games, starting in one, for the Green Bay Packers.
Thurman will re-join Dolezel, as the two played together in Dallas when the Hall of Famer quarterback finished his playing career.
Thurman, a four-year veteran wide receiver, will join the Soul for the next two seasons.
The wide receiver is coming off a career-best season with the Arizona Rattlers and Milwaukee Mustangs. Thurman’s combined totals from both teams included: 72 receptions for 1,026 yards and 24 touchdowns before being placed on the Injured Reserve in Week 16.
“Andrae is a very talented receiver that is familiar with our system and adds another weapon on offense,” says Soul head coach Clint Dolezel. “He is the perfect complement to Tiger (Jones) and will allow us to do more and provide a greater challenge to the opposing teams.”
Thurman’s career numbers include: 163 receptions for 2,163 yards and 51 touchdowns. He began his career with the Dallas Desperados (2007-08) before signing with the Arizona Rattlers (2012). With Arizona, Thurman started in three games before being traded to Milwaukee where he finished the season.
During his college years, Thurman played three seasons at the University of Arizona, before finishing his senior year at Southern Oregon. From 2004-05, Thurman had six stints in the NFL with five different teams. During the 2005 season, Thurman recorded his best NFL season by playing in 10 games, starting in one, for the Green Bay Packers.
Thurman will re-join Dolezel, as the two played together in Dallas when the Hall of Famer quarterback finished his playing career.
Philadelphia's Chambers looking for fights
PHILADELPHIA—Welterweight contender Steve Upsher Chambers is looking for an opportunity to take on anyone in the Welterweight division.
Chambers of Philadelphia has a record 24-2-1 with six knockouts is looking to rebound from a disappointing eight round unanimous decision defeat to former world champion Luis Collazo on October 20th in Brooklyn, New York.
“Since the loss to Collazo I have been trying to get right back in the ring and for some reason it has been difficult to get a fight," said the twenty-seven year old native of Philadelphia.
“I fought a good fight off of a layoff without much southpaw sparring and I feel fought a close fight. Luis won the fight but I feel the scores should have been closer. I know I can put on a better performance and there are some guys out there that I know I can beat.
“I will fight anyone between 143 and 149 pounds and since I can’t get a fight I am forced to name guys specifically.
“Andre Berto is in need of a comeback fight but we were turned down and the kid from Canada Phil Lo Greco is a guy that is overrated so I know I can take his undefeated record away from him.
“We were signed to fight Josesito Lopez a couple years ago and then he allegedly got injured and somehow he wound up on a Pay Per View card a couple weeks later to fight Jesse Vargas. Speaking of Vargas, he is another undefeated guy I would love to fight.
“We called Top Rank for one of their prospects Mikael Zewski of Jose Benavidez Jr. DiBella has Gabriel Bracero or Danny O’Connor and I see Thomas Dulorme is looking to get back in the ring.
“We had the Sho Box fight with Alex Perez and then he bailed only to get knocked out on HBO.
“Keith Thurman called us on ten days’ notice but I would need more time to prepare for a challenge like that."
Since none of those guys want to step up, there are plenty of local fights that make sense.
“I will fight anybody that would like to fight me. A kid like Ronald Cruz would make for a great local fight.
“It’s just been disappointing that I have had a few TV fights signed and sealed but for whatever reason something falls through on the other end. I feel in 2013 it will be my year to shine, I just need the opportunity."
Chambers of Philadelphia has a record 24-2-1 with six knockouts is looking to rebound from a disappointing eight round unanimous decision defeat to former world champion Luis Collazo on October 20th in Brooklyn, New York.
“Since the loss to Collazo I have been trying to get right back in the ring and for some reason it has been difficult to get a fight," said the twenty-seven year old native of Philadelphia.
“I fought a good fight off of a layoff without much southpaw sparring and I feel fought a close fight. Luis won the fight but I feel the scores should have been closer. I know I can put on a better performance and there are some guys out there that I know I can beat.
“I will fight anyone between 143 and 149 pounds and since I can’t get a fight I am forced to name guys specifically.
“Andre Berto is in need of a comeback fight but we were turned down and the kid from Canada Phil Lo Greco is a guy that is overrated so I know I can take his undefeated record away from him.
“We were signed to fight Josesito Lopez a couple years ago and then he allegedly got injured and somehow he wound up on a Pay Per View card a couple weeks later to fight Jesse Vargas. Speaking of Vargas, he is another undefeated guy I would love to fight.
“We called Top Rank for one of their prospects Mikael Zewski of Jose Benavidez Jr. DiBella has Gabriel Bracero or Danny O’Connor and I see Thomas Dulorme is looking to get back in the ring.
“We had the Sho Box fight with Alex Perez and then he bailed only to get knocked out on HBO.
“Keith Thurman called us on ten days’ notice but I would need more time to prepare for a challenge like that."
Since none of those guys want to step up, there are plenty of local fights that make sense.
“I will fight anybody that would like to fight me. A kid like Ronald Cruz would make for a great local fight.
“It’s just been disappointing that I have had a few TV fights signed and sealed but for whatever reason something falls through on the other end. I feel in 2013 it will be my year to shine, I just need the opportunity."
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Worst kept secret: Giroux named Flyers captain
Phanatic Hockey Editor
It happened 47 hours earlier than everyone expected, but Claude Giroux has been named the Philadelphia Flyers' next team captain.
"We have some veterans who are really solid guys and have been captains and could be captains, but I think they realize along with us that this is Claude's time,” said Flyers chairman Ed Snider upon Tuesday night's revelation. “He is our leader and without a doubt our best player, and is one of the premier players in the NHL right now. I am very proud of him and I think this is only the beginning of a phenomenal, phenomenal career."
Giroux will begin his fifth NHL season as the 19th captain in team history and the 18th man to serve in the post. He takes over for Chris Pronger, who lasted unofficially for one season, but in reality less than that, after an eye injury and concussion issues stemming from the same ended his playing career in November of 2011 after less than two months with the responsibility.
“Claude has put himself in this position by demonstrating excellent leadership qualities both on and off the ice,” said Flyers head coach Peter Laviolette. “Every day he practices and plays games like he wants to make a difference. After watching him grow for three-plus years, it’s now time for Claude to become the captain of this team.”
Laviolette can point to the events surrounding the start of Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Pittsburgh Penguins as a reason to trust in that change. Giroux reportedly asked his head coach to have the first shift in an eventual 5-1 series-clinching victory on home ice, sending Penguins captain Sidney Crosby to the ice with a vicious, clean open-ice check and then scoring the first goal of the contest less than a minute in.
It was the zenith of a 17-point playoff performance in 10 games for the native of Hearst, Ontario, who was coming off a career-high 93 points in the regular season.
“Obviously, this is a huge honor,” Giroux said. “There have been a lot of great captains here in the past. Along with this comes a lot of responsibility which I am prepared for. Being named captain is not really going to change the way I play on the ice and act off the ice. But I am very excited about this opportunity."
In atypical fashion, there will be three more players to have a back-up leadership role alongside the budding star.
Kimmo Timonen has been dubbed "associate captain," while Scott Hartnell and Danny Briere will be tagged as "alternate captains."
As if Giroux needed any more motivation after being away from NHL ice for the last 3 1/2 months, he certainly has it now with four days remaining before the Flyers' season opener against Crosby and the Penguins.
Before that, he will take the ice at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday night in front of a sellout crowd and be cheered as the new prince of the franchise.
Phantoms announce partnership, possible arena name to follow?
Boyertown, Pa. - January 15, 2013
- National Penn Bancshares, Inc. and the Phantoms, the
American Hockey League's top development team of the NHL's Philadelphia
Flyers, announced today that National Penn has become a founding partner
of the future Lehigh Valley team and the Allentown arena where it will
begin playing in the fall of 2014.
Addition
ally, National Penn will be the official bank of the Lehigh Valley
Phantoms as well as the only bank to be a founding partner of the arena.
The announcements were made jointly by David Kennedy, National Penn's
senior executive vice president and chief banking officer, and Jim and
Rob Brooks, co-owners of the Phantoms. Details of the long-term,
multiyear agreement were not disclosed.
"National
Penn has been a proud and confident supporter of the arena project and
the transformation of downtown Allentown since the earliest stages,"
Kennedy said. "With National Penn's new corporate headquarters being
built across the street from where the arena will stand, we look forward
to growing the National Penn brand alongside the Lehigh Valley Phantoms
brand-in Allentown and beyond. We're certain that significant
cross-marketing opportunities will arise through our partnership."
National
Penn helped make Allentown's arena project possible by leading a $35
million loan facility in 2011 to help cover the cost of the arena site
acquisition and preparation. The new arena at Seventh and Hamilton
streets will be the center of the Lehigh Valley and is a catalyst for
the renovation and revitalization of downtown Allentown. Scheduled to
open in the summer of 2014, the arena will seat 8,500 people for hockey
and up to 10,000 for concerts and other events, such as college
and high school sporting events, Cirque du Soleil and family programs
like Disney on Ice and Harlem Globetrotters games.
In
October 2012, National Penn announced it will relocate its corporate
headquarters to Seventh and Hamilton streets, bringing approximately 275
employees to the coming Two City Center building, which is scheduled to
be completed in the spring of 2014.
"This
is another outstanding collaboration for the Phantoms," Rob Brooks
said. "National Penn continues to take a bold leadership role in the
redevelopment of the Allentown community, and we are thrilled to be
expanding our relationship with them through this founding partnership."
National
Penn joins team and arena founding partners Lehigh Valley Health
Network, Service Electric Cable TV and Communications, Air Products and
Capital BlueCross. The partnership was facilitated by Front Row
Marketing Services, a subsidiary of the sports and entertainment firm
Comcast-Spectacor.
Atlantic Division preview: Philadelphia Flyers
Special to the Phanatic
PHILADELPHIA FLYERS (2011-12 -- 47-26-9, 103 pts, 3rd place; 264 GF, 232 GA)
REVIEW: Last season had to leave many Flyers fans with a bittersweet feeling. The six-game shellacking of the Pittsburgh Penguins was one of the most exciting first-round series in recent memory and the fact that Philadelphia made its hated rivals look like an absolute train wreck was the icing on the cake. The only problem was the Flyers went down quietly to the more disciplined and opportunistic Devils in the following five-game series, making the thrilling win over the Penguins look like a mirage.
KEY ADDITION: The Flyers waved goodbye to some key pieces this offseason when Chris Pronger "unofficially" retired due to post-concussion syndrome, Jaromir Jagr and Matt Carle left via free agency and James van Riemsdyk was dealt to Toronto. In return for van Riemsdyk, the Flyers received Maple Leafs defenseman Luke Schenn, the older brother of Philadelphia forward Brayden Schenn. The fifth overall pick in the 2008 draft, the 23-year-old Schenn already has 310 NHL games under his belt and the organization hopes the stay-at- home defenseman is preparing to enter his prime. Considering his high draft status, Schenn has been called a disappointment but the Flyers don't need him to live up to being the fifth overall pick, they simply need him to be a steady performer in the middle of a defensive corps that is short on depth.
X-FACTOR: It's no secret that Ilya Bryzgalov had an up-and-down first season as Philadelphia's No. 1 goaltender last year -- both in the crease and in the locker room -- and the Flyers will expect a more consistent effort from the eccentric netminder starting at the end of this week. Bryzgalov received a nine-year, $51 million contract from the Flyers prior to the 2011-12 campaign and he has some serious work to do to prove he was worth that price tag. With question marks all over the Flyers' defensive unit, Bryz needs to be better more often if Philadelphia wants to compete for Eastern Conference supremacy this truncated season.
PROGNOSIS: The Flyers are loaded with offensive talent thanks to guys like Claude Giroux, Danny Briere, Jakub Voracek and Scott Hartnell but the club's defensive issues -- centering on the short-term health of steady veteran Kimmo Timonen and including the statuses of Andrej Meszaros and Andreas Lilja -- prevent Philadelphia from being taken seriously as a Cup contender. A more focused Bryzgalov could help this team exceed expectations but the lack of depth at the back end (even with the recent signing of Kurtis Foster) could be too big of a problem to solve this season.
PROJECTION: Third place and a playoff spot.
PHILADELPHIA FLYERS (2011-12 -- 47-26-9, 103 pts, 3rd place; 264 GF, 232 GA)
REVIEW: Last season had to leave many Flyers fans with a bittersweet feeling. The six-game shellacking of the Pittsburgh Penguins was one of the most exciting first-round series in recent memory and the fact that Philadelphia made its hated rivals look like an absolute train wreck was the icing on the cake. The only problem was the Flyers went down quietly to the more disciplined and opportunistic Devils in the following five-game series, making the thrilling win over the Penguins look like a mirage.
KEY ADDITION: The Flyers waved goodbye to some key pieces this offseason when Chris Pronger "unofficially" retired due to post-concussion syndrome, Jaromir Jagr and Matt Carle left via free agency and James van Riemsdyk was dealt to Toronto. In return for van Riemsdyk, the Flyers received Maple Leafs defenseman Luke Schenn, the older brother of Philadelphia forward Brayden Schenn. The fifth overall pick in the 2008 draft, the 23-year-old Schenn already has 310 NHL games under his belt and the organization hopes the stay-at- home defenseman is preparing to enter his prime. Considering his high draft status, Schenn has been called a disappointment but the Flyers don't need him to live up to being the fifth overall pick, they simply need him to be a steady performer in the middle of a defensive corps that is short on depth.
X-FACTOR: It's no secret that Ilya Bryzgalov had an up-and-down first season as Philadelphia's No. 1 goaltender last year -- both in the crease and in the locker room -- and the Flyers will expect a more consistent effort from the eccentric netminder starting at the end of this week. Bryzgalov received a nine-year, $51 million contract from the Flyers prior to the 2011-12 campaign and he has some serious work to do to prove he was worth that price tag. With question marks all over the Flyers' defensive unit, Bryz needs to be better more often if Philadelphia wants to compete for Eastern Conference supremacy this truncated season.
PROGNOSIS: The Flyers are loaded with offensive talent thanks to guys like Claude Giroux, Danny Briere, Jakub Voracek and Scott Hartnell but the club's defensive issues -- centering on the short-term health of steady veteran Kimmo Timonen and including the statuses of Andrej Meszaros and Andreas Lilja -- prevent Philadelphia from being taken seriously as a Cup contender. A more focused Bryzgalov could help this team exceed expectations but the lack of depth at the back end (even with the recent signing of Kurtis Foster) could be too big of a problem to solve this season.
PROJECTION: Third place and a playoff spot.
Giroux in line to be named next Flyers captain
There has been speculation from a variety of sources that Claude Giroux will be named the next captain of the Philadelphia Flyers this week.
We wouldn't know that were the case, or that Giroux would be the logical choice, if not for a tweet earlier this morning from a Flyers insider which stated "Despite speculation to the contrary, I can confirm that there will be no announcement of a new captain for the#Flyers today."
Reports indicate that any announcement on a captaincy will be made in front of the home fans when practice shifts away from Voorhees and takes place at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday evening. That session is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.
While having no player captain is a choice -- the team did not have one for the entire 1992-93 season -- the responsibility needs to be shifted upon another player given that Chris Pronger, still the acting captain, has played his final NHL game in the wake of post-concussion syndrome.
We wouldn't know that were the case, or that Giroux would be the logical choice, if not for a tweet earlier this morning from a Flyers insider which stated "Despite speculation to the contrary, I can confirm that there will be no announcement of a new captain for the
Reports indicate that any announcement on a captaincy will be made in front of the home fans when practice shifts away from Voorhees and takes place at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday evening. That session is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.
While having no player captain is a choice -- the team did not have one for the entire 1992-93 season -- the responsibility needs to be shifted upon another player given that Chris Pronger, still the acting captain, has played his final NHL game in the wake of post-concussion syndrome.
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