Stephen A. Smith discusses A-Rod's Situation

ESPN's Skip Bayless and Stephen A.Smith discuss A-Rod and his decision to deny the allegations of performance enhancing drug use. ESPN.com

Big Trade

Yesterday there was talk about a Memphis Grizzlies player being traded, Rudy Gay.  Today it was made official that Rudy Gay is packing his bags and is headed to Toronto.  When he found out he was being traded, he said,"I came to Memphis as a 19 year old boy, and have left as a 26 year old man."

The only reason this worked out for the Grizzlies was that it got them more money.  There are also many other great players involved in this trade.  This trade was a three team trade, involving the Detroit Pistons, Memphis Grizzlies, and the Toronto Raptors.  Both the Raptors and Pistons aren't having great seasons after losing their star players in the past few years.  For the Pistons, one of their main sources of offense, Tyshaun Prince, is now part of the Memphis Grizzlies, being part of the trade.  Jose Calderon was traded to the Grizzlies, but was then traded by the Grizzlies to go to Detroit.  The Raptors are now getting Rudy Gay, a player with experience and he is a great player.  This might help the Raptors if they get one more star player.  If they do that I believe that they will make the playoffs this year.  To clarify who went where, here is a chart,  showing which team  received a player.  By Ameen I.

Grizzlies:

Ed Davis

Austin Daye
Tayshaun Prince

Raptors:

Rudy Gay
Hamed Haddadi

Pistons:

Jose Calderon                                                                    

Offseason Recovery: NL East

The MLB has been out of playing since October and the trades and free agents being grabbed by teams is insane. So I'm going to catch you up.

The biggest trade of the off season was Arizona Diamondbacks and Atlanta Braves "Block Buster" trade. Including former Braves all around infielder and number 2 hitter Martin Prado. Prado hit over .300 last year and he will be playing for the D-Backs with a 40 million dollar contract for 4 years. People also involved with the trade include all-star center fielder Justin Upton and third baseman Chris Johnson who is replacing the retired Chipper Jones.

Also Micheal Bourne will not play for the Braves next season and he remains on the market. Also the Phillies have been wild with activity including the findings of Carlos Ruiz used drugs to help with his illness causing him to have trouble staying put. Plus the Phillies will be having a brand new outfield with second year player Darren Ruf who will play left field, newly signed Delmon Young and Ben Revere will be starting. Young in right field and Revere in center field.

The Nationals have suffered a severe the loss of a great young pitcher, Gio Gonzalez. Gio has been caught with PED's and has been suspended. To add to the talent of this they have recruited Rafael Soriano, former closer of the Yankees and Rays. They also have managed to get Denard Span a former outfielder for the Twins.

The final two teams in the NL East are the Miami Marlins and the New York Mets. This Mets team has been quiet and the only big move for the Mets was John Buck coming to play catcher. He is coming to play from Miami. The biggest moves for the Marlins was Jaun Pierre and Placido Polanco both coming from Philadelphia. Jaun Pierre played extremly well and I was shocked he would be let go after he hit .308 for the Phillies. Polanco did not have a good year last year, but he is a great fielder and he his a career .299 hitter.

I believe it's going to be a great year for this division.

By David B.

Kobe Bryant Passing?

Over this past week people have started noticing that Kobe Bryant has a new way of playing. It is not shooting though it is passing.

In Kobe's past four games including one of the best teams in the NBA, the Oklahoma City Thunder. In that game against OKC Kobe had 14 assists. He also had 14 assists the game before against the Jazz. The Lakers won both of those games. Plus Kobe can still score and rebound as he got 9 rebounds and 21 points against in the Lakers 105-96 win over the Thunder. So is this new found way of playing what is best for the Lakers. As long as Kobe is putting up at least 10 points a game then the Lakers are in good shape. Plus if Dwight Howard can stay on the same page as Kobe he is less likely to be traded.

Do you think Kobe's new style is what is best for the Lakers? Post your answer in the comments.

By David B.

Heat at Nets

Tonight the Heat are visiting the Brooklyn Nets.  The Heat had a loss against the Celtics on Sunday in double overtime.  LeBron James drained the game tying shot in regulation, but the Heat still lost.  James is averaging 26.6 points, 7.1 assists, and 8.3 rebounds.  He reached 20,000 points and 5,000 assists in his career this season.  He was more proud of reaching the record of 5,000 assists because he likes getting his team involved.  I agree with him because it makes the Heat a better team; opposing teams don't know who is going to shoot because they are all offensive threats.  Dwayne Wade averages 20.7 points and 4.6 assists.  He and James have better communication than before, and this is making the Heat better.  Chris Bosh has 17.2 points, 7.5 boards, and 1.4 blocks per game.  However, for the Nets, ever since moving to Brooklyn, they have been much better.  Deron Williams averages 17.1 points and 7.8 assists a game.  He is having a great season, another cause of a great season for the Nets.  Joe Johnson went to Brooklyn from Atlanta, and he is averaging 17.1 points.  The only disadvantage of having Joe Johnson is that he is older.  He, too, is a great player.  Brook Lopez has 18.6 points, 7.3 boards, and 2.2 rejections per game.  With Rajon Rondo out, this opens the door for Deron Williams or Brook Lopez to make it on the All-Star team.  I predict that the Heat will win because after losing to the Celtics, they will try harder than ever to win.

By Ameen I.

                                                                                                                                                                        

Magic vs. Knicks

Tonight the Orlando Magic are playing the New York Knicks.  The Knicks are having a great season, and Amar'e Stoudemire is back from an injury.  The Magic aren't having a good season after losing big man Dwight Howard.  Carmelo Anthony has 24 points and 6.2 rebounds.  He had a great season, possibly an MVP Award.  Tyson Chandler averages 11.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game.  Raymond Felton is averaging 15.4 points and 6.3 assists.  These three players have stepped up, showing how good this New York Knicks team is.  Amar'e Stoudemire has 12.6 points.  Ever since he came back, the Knicks haven't been that bad.  His playing time helps rest other players, and still getting points.  For the Magic, Aaron Afflalo has 16.7 points.  Nikola Vucevic averages 11.9 points. 11.2 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks.  One game this season, he set a franchise-record, 29 rebounds.  He is a great rebounder.  Finally, Jameer Nelson is averaging 15.1 points and 7.3 assists.  He is a great three-point shooter.  I predict that the Knicks will come out on top, and Carmelo Anthony will have time to rest for the Knicks next game against  Milwaukee.

By Ameen I.

Steve Nash Returns

Tonight Steve Nash is returning to the desert.  The Lakers are going to visit the Suns.  This year hasn't been great for the Lakers, with the additions of Steve Nash and Dwight Howard.  To start off, I think that the Lakers will come out on top, even after playing the Hornets yesterday.  My reasoning is that the Lakers are finally working with each other, and Kobe Bryant has 39 assists in 3 games.  The Suns haven't been good ever since losing their top player, Steve Nash.  For the Suns, Luis Scola averages 13.2 points and 6.4 boards.  He was on the Rockets last year, and had a great season.  Goran Dragic is averaging 14.2 points and 6.3 assists.  The Suns don't have many scorers either, so it is also causing them a terrible season.  On the other side of the court, the Lakers only problem is winning and working together.  These problems look like they have been solved.  Just last night, when Kobe was trapped, he accepted it and passed it off, leading to a basket.  He used to just hold on to the ball, or throw up a wild shot.  Kobe has 28.4 points, 5.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds.  His assists have gone up in the last three games, and that is why the Lakers are on a three game winning-streak.  Steve Nash averages 11.5 points and 8 assists per game.  Dwight Howard is averaging 16.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.5 rejections a game.  Finally, Pau Gasol has 12.7 points,8 boards, and 1.3 blocks.  I am predicting that this Lakers teams is going to have a turn-around season, and be one of the best teams in the Western Conference.

By Ameen I.

Ray Lewis Banned Substance Alligations

Sports Illustrated or SI has reported in a future magazine that Ray Lewis was given a banned substance. Ray Lewis has not tested positive for the drugs and denied the thought of using.

So why would this come upon Ray if he has passed the drug test? The reason is that a product Lewis used to heel his triceps after tearing it on October 14 contained IGF-1 on the NFL's banned substance list. It was contained in a product known as deer ankle spray and Mitch Ross, a co-owner of Sports with Alternatives to Steroids (SWATS) said he spoke with Ray shortly after the injury and Lewis asked for products to speed up his recovery, because he wanted to be out on the field as soon as possible.

"Two years ago, it was the same report. I wouldn't give that report or him any of my press. He's not worthy of that. Next question," Lewis said. This was in an interview on Tuesday in New Orleans. Also this was said by the Ravens Vice President of Communications, Kevin Byrne "Ray has been randomly tested for banned substances and has never failed a test. We have never been notified of a failed test. He has never been notified of a failed test,"

Do you think that the substance was used by Lewis? I think that SI is wrong and that Lewis did use the substance even though everybody else seems to think differently. What do you think post your answer in the comments!

By David B.

NCAAM Leaders

Scoring Leaders:
1. Eric Green, Virginia Tech.......25.2 PPG
2. Doug McDermott, Creighton...23.7 PPG
3. Lamont Jones, Iona...............22.3 PPG
4. Kyle Vinales, Central Conn.....22.3 PPG
5. Bryce Cotton, Providence......21.7 PPG



Assists Leaders:
1. Michael Carter-Williams, Cuse..8.9 APG
2. Jason Brickman, Long Island....8.2 APG
3. D.J. Cooper, Ohio.....................8.2 APG
4. Larry Drew II, UCLA..................8.0 APG
5. Phil Gaetano, Sacred Heart......7.8 APG



Rebound Leaders:
1. O.D. Anosike, Siena................12.0 RPG
2. Andre Roberson, Colorado.... 11.6 RPG
3. Jerrelle Benimon, Towson......11.2 RPG
4. Mason Plumlee, Duke............11.2 RPG
5. Richard Howell, NC State......11.1 RPG



Blocks Leaders:
1. Chris Obepka, St. John's.........4.6 BPG
2. Nerlens Noel, Kentucky............4.3 BPG
3. Jeff Withey, Kansas.................4.3 BPG
4. Jordan Bachynski, ASU...........4.3 BPG
5. Zeke Marshall, Akron...............3.8 BPG



Steals Leaders:
1. Anthony Hickey, LSU................3.8 SPG
2. Briante Weber, VCU..................3.1 SPG
3. Duke Mondy, Oakland..............3.1 SPG
4. Dyricus Simms-Edwards, Bradley.. 3.0 SPG
5. Michael Carter-Williams, Cuse..3.0 SPG

By: Tarky L.

Coleman Out 4 Weeks

The Syracuse Orange have been having some trouble rebounding and that could be the reason that they lost against Villanova, but I'm talking about the injury to Dajaun Coleman. Coleman is freshman center for the Orange, and he has started every game of the season. Although last game against 'Nova he had only played a total of 7 minutes. So I believe that this upcoming star will be out for 4 weeks, but will be back before 'Cuse's Big East tournament and March Madness. After his left knee surgery that took place today (January 29th). Although Coleman only averages 4.3 rebounds and 5 points. This 6 foot 9 center brings something that the Orange need a tall player that is a good defensive player.

By David B.

MLB Drug scandal

Only a few days ago a few baseballs rising stars including Melky Cabrera, and Gio Gonzalez failed a performance enhancing drug test better known as PED's. Those names are not the most shocking of the names though, it is Alex Rodriguez. A-Rod has been caught before in the act of taking PED's, but why would he do it again?

This information was on record and given to an employee at Biogenesis of  America before it was closed last month. The drugs were sold also given to Manny Ramirez who got a 50 game suspension when he was caught for using the drugs. The record show that the drugs given, were PED's, including human growth hormone, testosterone, and anabolic steroids. Miami is now considered by many including ESPN "ground zero" for the PED's.

It is reported that A-Rod paid 3500 dollars for the PED's and other drugs. Another player was found on the list of drug buyers and takers, Nelson Cruz who is the reason that the Rangers did so well in the post season.

Do you think that these players teams would have succeeded as well as they did if these players didn't take steroids. Post in the comments.

                   By David B.

Hornets vs. Lakers

Today the Los Angeles Lakers are going to host the New Orleans Hornets.  Both teams are having the complete opposite season they were expecting.  The Hornets got Anthony Davis and Austin Rivers, son of Doc Rivers.  Austin went to Duke and this is his rookie season; not what anyone was expecting. Anthony went to Kentucky and this too is his rookie season.  If these both step up their game, then this team will be much better.  Greivis Vasquez is averaging 13.8 points and 9.2 assists for the Hornets.  With Boston Celtics point-guard out, this is a great time for him to step up and earn a reputation.  Anthony Davis averages 12.8 points, 7.8 boards, and 1.8 blocks per game.  This is what makes Davis so good, his ability to score, rebound, and block.  Robin Lopez, brother of Brooklyn Nets Brook Lopez, averages 11 points and 1.7 blocks.  It seems like basketball runs in the Lopez family.  This team will need major improvements, just to have a winning season.

Meanwhile, the Lakers are having one of their worst seasons in franchise history.  Although, after having a major win against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Lakers have been pumped up.  The good thing about this team is they have experience.  Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant have played for over ten years, and Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol have been on Olympic teams.  Pau Gasol, Dwight Howard, and Steve Nash have been out with injuries this season, and that time hurt the Lakers.  Surprisingly, only Kobe Bryant, the veteran, hasn't been out with an injury.  Now, Kobe Bryant is averaging 29.2 points and 4.9 rebounds.  He has done a great job with the Lakers over the years, and being patient.  Steve Nash has 11.2 points and 8.6 assists.   With Rondo out, this is a great time for him to step up and be the best point-guard in the NBA.  Dwight Howard averages 17.1 points, 12.3 boards, and 2.5 blocks per game.  Finally, Pau Gasol is averaging 12.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.4 rejections per a game.  After suffering a concussion, head coach Mike D'antoni has kept Gasol on the bench.  I predict that the Lakers will come out on top easily, and will also beat the Phoenix Suns tomorrow.  This Lakers team is good now, and I think that they're going to make it into the playoffs.  By Ameen I

                                                                                                                                                                        

Power Rankings

In the NBA there are multiple good teams. My list of the best ones are listed below.

1. Oklahoma City Thunder~34-11
2. Los Angeles Clippers~33-13
3. San Antonio Spurs~36~11
4. Miami Heat~28-13
5.  Golden State Warriors~26-17 

On next Monday these rankings will be out again. So tune in next week for the my Power Rankings! 

By David B.

NBA: Stats

The NBA stats are rocky and listed below.

Points Per Game                                                 

1. Kevin Durant~OKC~29.6
2. Carmello Anthony~NYK~29.4
3. Kobe Bryant~LAL~28.7                                    

 Rebounds Per Game

1. Dwight Howard~LAL~12
2. Zach Randolph~MEM~11.6
3. Nikola Vucevic~ORL~11.3

Assists Per Game

1. Rajon Rondo~BOS~11.1
2. Chris Paul~LAC~9.7
3. Greivis Vasquez~NO~9.2

 By David B.

                                                                                                                                                                    
 

Grizzlies vs. 76ers

Tonight the Memphis Grizzlies are traveling to Philadelphia to play the 76ers.  The 76ers haven't been too good after losing Andre Iguodala to the Denver Nuggets, but are still only two games out of the eighth spot in the East, behind the Boston Celtics, who lost Rajon Rondo.  This opens the door a little bit more for the 76ers because without Rondo, the Celtics lose their star player leading the NBA in assists.  Jrue Holiday is averaging 19.4 points and 8.9 assists per game.  Thaddeus Young is averaging 14.8 points and 7.3 boards.  Finally, Evan Turner is averaging 14.2 points and 6.7 rebounds.

On the other side, the Grizzlies are having another great season.  Rudy Gay is averaging 17.5 points and 5.8 rebounds.  Zach Randolph is averaging 16.2 points and 11.6 boards per a game.   Marc Gasol is averaging 13.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game.  If the Grizzlies keep this up, I think they will surely make the playoffs, no matter how good the other teams in the Western Conference play.  The teams in the Western Conference should look out, because the Los Angeles Lakers are creeping up, and look like they actually might make the playoffs.

By Ameen I.

                                                                                                                                                                         

Top 25

This week was wild, with upsets all over the board.  Early in the week Louisville and Duke fell.  Later in the week Syracuse would fall too.  This is the first time Michigan has been in the 1 spot in 20 years.  Michigan fans can thank Trey Burke.  Oregon has done great this season too, along with Miami(FL).  So, after all of those upsets, the AP Top 25  is very crazy, so here are the 25 best teams in the country:

1)Michigan
2)Kansas
3)Indiana
4)Florida
5)Duke
6)Syracuse
7)Gonzaga
8)Arizona
9)Butler
10)Oregon
11)Ohio State
12)Louisville
13)Michigan State
14)Miami(FL)
15)Wichita State
16)Ole Miss
17)Missouri
18)Kansas State
19)North Carolina State
20)New Mexico
21)Creighton
22)San Diego State
23)Minnesota
24)Cincinnati
25)Marquette                                                                                                                         By Ameen I.

Pro Bowl Blow Out

The Pro Bowl was yet again another slug fest. It was all passing there were plenty of deep balls and almost no running.

The numbers for the AFC were terrible and they were dominated by the NFC who would win 62-35. The best quarterback for the NFC was obviously Eli Manning who threw for the most yards with 191 and threw a pair of touchdowns. Russel Wilson played very well too as he had 3 touchdown passes and only 98 yards. For this NFC offense Kevin Rudolph, Vincent Jackson, and Victor Cruz were the main targets. Cruz had 96 yards on 10 receptions the most receptions for any player in this game. Jackson had 91 yards for 2 touchdowns on 6 grabs. Rudolph caught the least passes of these three, but for the most yards at 112.

On the AFC side Andrew Luck would be the quarterback to step up and play his heart out. He threw 205 yards and 2 touchdowns, with only 1 interception. The best 2 receivers would be A.J Green and Joshua Cribs, who's numbers are way far apart. Cribs had only 56 yards and that was still the second best on the AFC after A.J Green's 119 yards and 3 touchdowns.

The final would end in a blow out with NFC winning 62-35!

            By David B.
                                                                                                     

Wolverines vs. Illini

This game between the Illinois Fighting Illini and the Michigan Wolverines wasn't even a contest. The whole game was Michigan. The only lead that the Fighting Illini had was at the 15:30 second mark in the first half. They only had a 6-7 lead.

If it wasn't for the 4 players that were in double figures for the Wolverines this team wouldn't even be ranked and they are #2 in the nation. The players in double figures were Tim Hardaway Jr., Glenn Robinson III, Trey Burke, and Nik Stauskas. Stauskas had 14 points, Robinson had 12 points and 6 boards. Burke would have 19 points, 3 steals, and 5 assists. Hardaway would end with 12 points, 3 steals, and a block. Their offense does all the work and that is enough for them as they coast for a 74-60 win. On the Illinois side they Brandon Paul had 15 points and banged 3 three pointers. Plus Nnanna Eqwa had 10 boards leading all players.

By David B.

Lakers Outlast Thunder

Today the amazing Oklahoma City Thunder were paying a visit to the struggling Los Angeles Lakers.  The Thunder couldn't hang in though, and the Lakers won this game 105-96.  This game sounds like it was dominated by the Lakers, but it was close; there was never a time in this game when there was more than a ten points lead for either team.  In the first quarter, the the Lakers outscored the Thunder 27-23.  In the second quarter the Thunder had a comeback, outscoring the Lakers 30-25.  The halftime score would be 53-52 with the Thunder on top.  In the third quarter the Lakers outscored the Thunder 23-22.  From the middle of the third quarter to the end of the game, the Lakers had positive energy, giving them the win.  In the fourth quarter the Lakers outscored the Thunder 30-21, showing off their ability to go through traffic and find a big man and score.  Kobe Bryant led the Lakers with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and he added 9 rebounds; one rebound shy of a triple-double.  Steve Nash and Pau Gasol had great games too, Nash and Gasol making important baskets in crucial moments.

Kevin Durant led the way for the Thunder with 35 points.  Russell Westbrook led the team in rebounding and assists, with 17 points, 13 assists, and 9 rebounds.  Westbrook was also one board shy of a triple-double.  I now think that the Lakers will have a great rest of the season, because this game was a real momentum shifter.  I think the rest of the teams in the Western Conference should be scared, now that the Lakers have this confidence.  I also think that the Thunder will bounce off of this loss and still be the best in the West.  The OKC Thunder are now 34-11.  The Los Angeles Lakers are now 19-25.  This looked like one of the Lakers best games this season.  By Ameen I.

Pro Bowl Offense's

AFC Offense                                                       NFC Offense

Quarterback	Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Matt Ryan, Atlanta Drew Brees, New Orleans Eli Manning, N.Y. Giants Robert Griffin III, Washington Russell Wilson, Seattle
Running back	Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Marshawn Lynch, Seattle Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Frank Gore, San Francisco
Fullback	Jerome Felton, Minnesota
Wide receiver	Calvin Johnson, Detroit Brandon Marshall, Chicago Julio Jones, Atlanta Victor Cruz, N.Y. Giants Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Vincent Jackson, Tampa Bay
Tight end	Tony Gonzalez, Atlanta Jason Witten, Dallas
Tackle	Joe Staley, San Francisco Russell Okung, Seattle Jermon Bushrod, New Orleans Trent Williams, Washington
Guard	Mike Iupati, San Francisco Josh Sitton, Green Bay Jahri Evans, New Orleans Chris Snee, N.Y. Giants
Center	Max Unger, Seattle Jeff Saturday, Green Bay

Quarterback

Peyton Manning,  Denver 

Tom Brady, New England

Andrew Luck, Indianapolis

Matt Schaub, Houston

Running back

Arian Foster, Houston

Jamaal Charles, Kansas City

Ray Rice, Baltimore

C.J. Spiller, Buffalo

Fullback

Vonta Leach, Baltimore

Marcel Reece, Oakland

Wide receiver

A.J. Green, Cincinnati

Andre Johnson, Houston

Reggie Wayne , Indianapolis

Wes Welker, New England

Demaryius Thomas, Denver

Tight end

Rob Gronkowski, New England

Heath Miller, Pittsburgh

Jermaine Gresham, Cincinnati

Owen Daneils, Houston

Duane Brown, Houston

Ryan Clady, Denver

Andrew Whitworth, Cincinnati

Zane Beadles, Denver

Center

Maurkice Pouncey, Pittsburgh

Chris Meyers, Houstonaniels, Houston

Guard

Logan Mankins, New England

Marshal Yanda, Baltimore
y-Richie Incognito, Miami
Wade Smith, Houston
y-Zane Beadles, Denver

By David B.

Celtics Over Heat

Today, in Ray Allen's return to Boston, the Celtics and Heat sent the game into double overtime.  In the first quarter the Heat outscored the Celtics 26-22.  Rajon Rondo wasn't there for the Celtics shoot around this morning, and later today was diagnosed with a torn ACL.  Now, I think the two best point-guards, Rajon Rondo and Derrick Rose, are out with ACL injuries.  In the second quarter the Celtics had a huge surge, outscoring the Heat 23-19.  The halftime score would be tied, with a score of 45.  In the third quarter the Heat outscored the Celtics 23-19.  In the fourth quarter the Celtics scored more than the Heat, 23-19.  The game would go into overtime, and the score at the end of regulation would be 87 all.  With seven seconds left, LeBron James buried a three-pointer to tie the game.  Then, the game was sent into a second overtime.  The Celtics outscored the Heat 13-11 in the overtimes, and won 100-98.  Kevin Garnett led the Celtics in points with 24 and 11 rebounds.  He made some crucial baskets.  Paul Pierce had a monster game, a triple-double.  Paul had 17 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists.  Jeff Green did a great job guarding LeBron James and had 11 points.  Green made very important baskets for the Celtics in critical moments.  However, LeBron James led the Miami Heat with 34 points, 16 boards, and 7 assists.  Dwayne Wade had 17 points and 7 assists, tied with James for team lead in assists.  Chris Bosh had 16 points and 16 rebounds, tied with James with a team lead in rebounds.  Bosh also had a double-double.  This game was intense, and if both teams play like this for at least  half of their games left, they will surely make the playoffs.  With Rajon Rondo out, the Celtics suffered a big loss, but I think they can pull it off.

By Ameen I.

Hoosiers Overpower Spartans

A very unexpected aspect of this game between the Michigan State Spartans and the Indiana Hoosiers would happen. Cody Zeller probably the best player on the Hoosiers would only have 9 points when he averages over 16 points.

The player that did deliver was was Victor Oladipo who would have 6 steals and 3 blocks. He is a player to look at for defensive player of the year. Plus Oladipo had 21 points and 7 rebounds. If Oladipo didn't perform as he did the outcome of this game would be outrageously different. But Oladipo had help from Jordan Hulls who made 3 three point shots which would carry the momentum for his team.


 Michigan State which is not nearly as big of a scoring team as the Hoosiers put up a fantastic fight. They would only go down 75-70. Thanks for this loss goes to Keith Appling who would have only 3 points and he leads his team in average points per game. If it wasn't for Appling who had 2 personal fouls with 8:16 left in the first half. Maybe Adreian Payne could have led the Spartans to victory, but sadly even after the center put up 18 points and 9 rebounds. The Spartans couldn't pull it off. Plus Gary Harris a teammate of Payne's had 21 points which 15 of the points were off three point shots. Branden Dawson played excellent defense with 4 steals and he had 12 points. So I bet you're wondering after how the Spartans played so well they could lose. It was because they put the Hoosiers at the line too much as they had 13 points off free throws and the Spartans only would have 5 points at the line.


By David B.

Heat vs. Celtics.

Today Ray Allen is visiting his old home, Boston.  This summer in the offseason, Ray Allen went to the Miami Heat, and that hurt the Boston Celtics because Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett were questionable to come back.  Now, Miami's Big 3 is going to visit Boston's Big 3.  Miami's best players are LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh.  The Celtics' best are Rajon Rondo, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce.  To start off, the Heat are coming off of winning a championship.  LeBron James is averaging 26.4 points, 7.1 assists, and 8.1 rebounds.  2012 was a great year for LeBron because he won the championship, won MVP, won NBA Finals MVP, got to 20,000 points, got to 5,000 assists, and won a gold medal at the Olympics in London this summer.  Dwayne Wade averages 20.8 points and 4.5 assists per game.  Finally, Chris Bosh averages 17.2 points, 7.2 boards and 1.4 blocks a game.  If these three can't step up, then someone else will.  One game, Mario Chalmers scored over 30 points, a career-high.  That proves how deep this Miami team is, and how much their front office does to get great players.

Meanwhile, the Celtics look like they did last year, tired and bored.  They look like the "Bad News Bears" right now.  Although, last year the Celtics had a great second half of the season last year, and I think that will happen this year too.  Rajon Rondo is averaging 13.7 points, 5.6 boards, and 11.1 assists.  Rondo has also had triple-doubles this season.  He is short, so 5.6 rebounds is a lot.  In my opinion, I think he is one of the best point-guards in the NBA.  Paul Pierce is averaging 18.8 points, and 5.7 rebounds.  This hasn't been a great season for him  shooting.  Kevin Garnett averages 14.7 points and 7.2 boards.  If the season ended today, the Celtics would be in the 8 seed, while the Heat are in the 1 seed.  This game will be on ABC and will be on at 1:00 EST this afternoon.  By Ameen I.

'Nova Finishes Strong

The Syracuse Orange would suffer an upset at the hands of the unranked Villanova Wildcats. The Cats would have a great fight as they did early this week against the #5 Louisville Cardinals. The Wildcats would have 6 unanswered points in the end of the end of the fourth quarter. The 'Cuse would hold a lead of 61-55 with 2:50 seconds left. Then, Ryan Arcidiacono would hit a buzzer beating three point jump shot on a perfect assist by Mauphtao Yarou for 'Nova. In overtime it was all Wildcat. The 'Cats would put up 14 points in the small 5 minute overtime. 3 of the points coming off Villanova's only three pointer which was a perfect play. The ball fake by Yarou drew C.J Fair back a few steps and it gave James Bell an open three point shot. It would leave 1:55 on the clock and a 69-65 lead. Villanova wouldn't even have made it to overtime if it wasn't for the Darrun Hilliard who had 25 points and 7 rebounds which would help lead to 'Nova's 47 rebounds. Also Mauphtao Yarou had 16 REBOUNDS and 14 points. So this game was fought over the fact that the Wildcats had the heart to win and wanted it more.

          By David B.

NFL Elite

Who are the Elite? By David B. ESPN.com

Warriors vs.Bulls

Last night the Golden State Warriors paid a visit to the Chicago Bulls.  The Bulls haven't been the same ever since losing Derek Rose with an ACL injury last year in the playoffs.  Kirk Hinrich of the Bulls did great last night, with 25 points and 4 assists.  However,  the Warriors, they have been the most surprising team in the NBA this season.  David Lee led the way for the Warriors with 23 points and 6 boards.  Klay Thompson had 13 points and 8 rebounds for the Warriors.  On the other side, Joakim Noah scored 14 points, but had 16 rebounds.  In his last game he had 18 rebounds.  The Bulls pulled out of this game and won 103-87.  This game helped the Bulls gain momentum, to have a good feeling to win more games.  The Chicago Bulls are now 26-16.  The Golden State Warriors are also 26-16.  The Warriors are in second place in the Pacific Division, behind the Los Angeles Clippers, who have a record of 32-12.  If both of these teams play like this for the rest of the year, I think they will both make the playoffs.  Do you think these teams will make the playoffs?  Post your opinion in the comments!

By Ameen I.

NBA Trades: Dwight Howard?

              

The Dwight Howard controversy has been going on for a long time, since all most the beginning of the season, because Dwight Howard doesn't have something that Pau Gasol, former starting center for the Lakers had. Pau new the play book he had good chemistry with the other players. Plus Dwight Howard also has to play with former Phoenix Sun, Steve Nash. Steve Nash has been adjusting better, but he was used to being the main scorer and best player. Dwight Howard was a star player too in Orlando. Since Kobe was already a Laker he was the star before everyone else. So this team can't work with a team of people like this. For example, it took three of the best players in the NBA three years to win a championship. Including Dwayne Wade, LeBron James, and Chris Bosh. So will the Lakers trade away Dwight Howard even after he just signed a huge contract for 83.24 million dollars over five years. So will he go away even with the Lakers owing him this large amount of cash. If the Lakers are even thinking of trading him they will have to do it by 21st of February. the trade deadline. Post what you think in the comments.

                      By David B.

Nets vs.Grizzles

Tonight the Brooklyn Nets are visiting the Memphis Grizzlies.  Both teams have had outstanding seasons, but I think the Nets are having a better one.  With the addition of Joe Johnson from the Atlanta Hawks, the Nets are doing much better.  It is because of Joe Johnson that the Nets have won a couple of games, and those games were costly.

However, the Grizzlies are led by Rudy Gay and Marc Gasol, brother of Pau Gasol.  Rudy Gay averages 17.5 points per game and 5.8 rebounds.  Marc Gasol averages 13.3 points a game, 7.5 rebounds per a game, and 1.8 rejections.  Zach Randolph averages 16.2 points and 11.6 boards.  If the Grizzlies keep this up I think the Grizzlies will have a very good chance of making it into the playoffs, and will be seeded very high, too.

On the other side, the Nets have great players, including Deron Williams, Joe Johnson, and Brook Lopez.  Deron Williams averages 17 points and 7.8 assists.  Joe Johnson averages 17.4 points per game.  Joe has helped the Nets win many of their games, and has good leadership and experience on this Brooklyn Nets team.  Finally, Brook Lopez averages 18.6 points,7.4 boards, and 2.1 rejections per game.

I predict that the Brooklyn Nets will come out on top because of their experience and their positive momentum.  Who do you think is going to win this game?  Post it in the comments!

By Ameen I.

                                                                                                                                                                          

NBA All-Stars

The NBA All-star game will be held in Houston, Texas on February 17 2013. The starters for this game are listed below.

East
F-Carmelo Anthony- New York Knicks      
F-LeBron James     - Miami Heat                 
C-Kevin Garnett    - Boston Celtics              
G-Rajon Rondo     - Boston Celtics              
G-Dwayne Wade  - Miami Heat                   

West
F-Kevin Durant     - Oklahoma City Thunder 
F-Blake Griffin      - Los Angeles Clippers     
C-Dwight Howard- Los Angeles Lakers       
G-Kobe Bryant    - Los Angeles Lakers       
G-Chris Paul        - Los Angeles Clippers     

All of the players above are starters and this year there are no starters that are rookies. Predict the winner of the All-star game below in the comments.

By David B.

New Orleans Hornets

Yesterday it was made clear that the New Orleans Hornets were going to become the New Orleans Pelicans.  Ever since  Chris Paul went to the Los Angeles Clippers, the Hornets haven't been the same, and now they really won't.  The Hornets officially announced that they will be opening their new logo today.  Maybe their new logo will affect the team in a positive way.  The Hornets will officially change their name and logo next year, in the 2013-2014 season.  Do you think the Hornets will have a good season with a new logo?  Post it in the comments!

By Ameen I.

                                                                                                                                                                         

Clippers vs. Suns

Tonight the streaking Los Angeles Clippers are going to visit the Phoenix Suns.  The Clippers have had an impressive season and had a 17 game win-streak to give them a 32-11 record.  The Clippers haven't been so good since going on that win streak, but if they win tonight I think that positive energy will help carry them into the All-Star Break.  Meanwhile, the Phoenix Suns are having a dreadful season with the loss of Steve Nash.  The Suns have a record of 14-28, which is the very opposite of how it used to be with Steve Nash.  Luis Scola of the Suns averages 13.3 points a game and 6.4 rebounds.  Last season Luis was on the Houston Rockets, and his long hair might give the Suns some magic, just like Steve Nash's hair.  Goran Dragic averages 14 points and 6.2 dishes.  Many different Phoenix Suns are going to have to step up to even have a chance of making the playoffs.  However, the Los Angeles Clippers are having a magnificent season.  The Clippers are led by Chris Paul, who averages 16.6 points a game and 9.7 rebounds.  Although, Chris Paul is listed day-to-day, but probably won't play tonight.  He has been in recent "State Farm" commercials, but I don't think he will be able be in any new commercials due to his injury.  Big man, DeAndre Jordan averages 8.8 points, 6.9 boards, and 1.5 rejections per a game.  Finally, Blake Griffin averages 18.3 points a game and 8.6 rebounds per game.  Blake Griffin and Chris Paul have a special connection with Paul on the passing end and Griffin on the scoring end, called "Lob City."  I predict that the Los Angeles Clippers will win with a big margin.  I think that Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan will step and have a monster game.

By Ameen I.