MORE BRILLIANCE by Tannen

I was insistent. No way Utah was in this series. LA would simply suffocate them, take a 3 games to none lead and that was that. The Jazz Efense(no D) would rear it's ugly head and the Lakers would make a road statement. Still not sure if it was about LA being in an offensive coma or the home team having a rare solid defensive moment but it doesn't matter because instead of over it's kind of on. Kobe was 5 of 24. Trevor Ariza, so brilliant in game 2 couldn't throw it in the ocean. The guys in purple blew a golden opportunity to hit cruise control and instead must expend some energy they might need down the road.
How about the Celtics? We spoke earlier in the week about the heart of a lion, or defending that championship. Gotta put aside my personal anti-Boston sentiments and credit a veteran team for putting on a clinic about winning a meaningful game this time of year on the road.
Was reading about a couple of former Toledo players perhaps involved in point shaving surrounding the hoop and football program. What surprises me is this isn't more widespread. In this quickfix, gotta have it now society, you'd think college athletes with minimal financial resources would fall into that trap on a more consistent basis.
Look for a couple of Ducks to get their names called relatively early tomorrow in the NFL draft. These mock drafts are kind of laughable past the 5th or 6th pick, but in the event some rumours are true, it would be sweet to see Max Unger land in Pittsburgh. One of the true elite organizations in all of sports, they treasure their young talent. Plus with all Max meant to Oregon football as a 4 year starter and really good young guy, this would represent the ultimate payoff. I think Patrick Chung will go in the 2nd round. He's tabbed as one of the top safeties available. He seems like a perfect fit for a secondary with some established players who could use a versatile DB who can cover and play the run.
So? You want a shot at that Springfield Country Club golf certificate? Good for 2 free greens fees at a dynomite layout. No tricks. Just e-mail me your name to get in the drawing. stevetannen@live.com
Good luck.