A Player's Coach



The Mount Rushmore of NBA Coaches



When you think of the Mount Rushmore of NBA coaches, one might think of Phil Jackson, Red Aurbach, and Pat Riley. One thing that all these coaches have in common is the personal relationship that they have with their players. In the sports world this is known as a player’s coach. A players coach is someone that everyone wants to play for not only because he/she is great coaches, but because they know how to get the best out of their players. This is no exception for the fourth member and current San Antonio Spurs Head Coach Gregg Popovich.





Coach Pop Leading His Players

Gregg Popovich is considered by many to have a unique but successful coaching style. He knows how to breed winners and champions. At times Coach Popovich can be an autocratic coach. His blunt, forceful and direct comments are fair game even for his superstars. No one is too good to have their flaws or laziness pointed out in the game or in practice. Coach Popovich is also a very democratic coach. He’s never too prideful to not want to listen to a play drawn up by one of his players. He encourages each of his players to voice their opinion for the betterment of the team. He truly believes that no one person is better than the unity of the team. The next thing that Pop (short for Popovich) excels at is the social support that he has with his players. Every player has a unique and special relationship with Coach Popovich. Some see him as a great friend while other might see him as a father figure. These relationships are captured time and time again during games and practices when Coach Pop is mic’d up. He tells his players how proud he is of them or how he’s grateful to see them succeed. He believes in his players and his players in him. Lastly, Coach Pop is a master at positive feedback. Every good deed is mentioned. Nothing gets by Pops. His words pierce the hearts and minds of his players. Player’s listen to him because they know that he only says things to elevate their game.

Pop Celebrating with Patty Mills

Phil Jackson, Red Aurbach, and Pat Riley are already hall of fame coaches and well deserving of a spot on the Mount Rushmore of NBA greatest coaches. But move on over, because Coach Popovich is already considered a lock for the hall of fame and a spot on that mountain.  



Check out who the USA Men's Soccer Team Plays in the World Cup Round of 16 Can They Survive the Round of 16 & Keep Thier Dreams Alive

Going Under The Knife

Athletes bodies come in all
shapes and sizes

There is one thing that an athlete needs to perform his/her job at the highest level. It’s the most sophisticated piece of equipment ever created and the one thing that separates one athlete from another. That one thing is the human body. When fans and the media watch sports, what they’re seeing are bodies performing extraordinary acts. To perform these acts, athletes attempt to push the limits of their bodies. The stronger, faster, or more flexible an athlete's body is, the more athletic they are considered. With this in mind, the higher a basketball player jumps, the more he is admired. The stronger a football player is, the more he is admired. And the faster a baseball player can throw a ball, the more he is admired. All of these astonishing feats are marveled by fans and media alike.

The body every women wants
and every man wishes he had

However, just like turning of a key to start a car, an athlete’s body is expected to perform every time he/she steps on the field.  Athletes take care of their bodies hoping that when it’s time to perform under the bright lights, their bodies will reciprocate that good fortune. Unfortunately, injuries do occur and the body does break down if it’s pushed too hard or if it’s not strong enough to endure such tasks.

This became true for Orioles all-star catcher Matt Wieters who will undergo Tommy John surgery. Unfortunately Matt’s body couldn’t hold up to the stress that an elite athlete put on his body day in and day out.  Just like a lot of injured athletes, Matt has been dealing with a nagging sourness for the last couple of weeks. He wanted to rejoin the team in early July but when his throwing strength wasn’t up to par, Dr. James Andrews opted for the surgery. Matt’s body should be healed by the 2015 opening day season.

If you would like to read more about Matt Wieters surgury click on these links below
YahooSports- Wieters Elbow Surgery
CBS- Wieters Undergoes Season Ending Surgery

I Can’t Play In These Conditions

In every sport and in every era there is always that one player that everyone looks to and admires. In hockey, he’s only known as the “Great One” (aka Wayne Gretzky). In boxing he’s considered to the “Greatest Ever” (aka Muhammad Ali). In baseball there was the “Great Bambino” (aka Babe Ruth), and in basketball he’s known as the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time aka Michael Jordan).  All of these athletes have revolutionized their sports in one way or another.  But, there is always a defining moment in every athletes career that either makes or breaks them

LeBron James asking to come
out of the game due to cramps

LeBron James had a similar opportunity during game one of the 2014 NBA finals. With the air conditioner broken in San Antonio Arena, temperatures climbed to over 100 degrees. Then, with the game on the line and with 7 minutes left, LeBron James decided to signal Coach Spolstra to take him out of the game due to cramps. LeBron made several attempt to come back into the game but soon left with the same symptoms. The announcers of the game immediately made this the headline for the game one lost which the Miami Heat suffered. At the end of the game, even Tim Duncan from the San Antonio Spurs had to address the issue of whether it would have been a different game if LeBron would have stayed on the floor.  I’m sure Tim Duncan was thinking, “I don’t care about LeBron, I just won game one of the NBA finals. Who’s comes up with these ridiculous questions?” Well Tim, the media does. It’s the medias job to tell us the public what topics are relevant and what topic are not.”

This was just the beginning. Every media venue from the local 10 o’clock news to ESPN covered the LeBron exiting. Even the postgame recap took only 5 minutes to cover the outcome and the rest of the time on LeBron.  Everyone had his/her own opinion on what they thought he should have done or whether it was justified. In every story, the media is attempting to persuade or influence its audience to think what they want them to think. This technique is called framing.

In this YouTube clip with Steven A. Smith, Skip Bayless, and Hall of Famer Isaiah Thomas they’re all trying to influence the audience to make them think the way they think. Isaiah Thomas is trying to persuade the public that there was nothing LeBron could do in that situation. Skip Bayless was making a point that LeBron pulled himself out prematurely.  Another argument that Skip made was that everyone else had to play through the same conditions as LeBron, but no one else came up with cramps and no one else asked to be removed from the game.

After watching that clip I found myself torn between the two sides. On one hand I was a collegiate athlete and I know what cramps feel like. Fortunately I’ve never had them during a game so I couldn’t relate in that sense. Then, I thought about Skips points and thought whether I would leave the game or not. Isn’t it funny that the media can make you think and feel whatever they want? Point framing theory.

Read the entire story on SBNation here-LeBron Cramps

From Failed Test to Retirement

According to an ESPN article, three time light heavy weight title contender Chael Sonnen was pulled from UFC 175 against Vitor Belfort for failing a random drug test.  Then, less than 24-hours after testing positive for anastrozole and clomiphene Chael Sonnen decided to retire and hang up his 8 ounce gloves. This was Sonnens’ second offense, the first one coming in 2010. In his retirement announcement on UFC Tonight, Chael claims that the drugs found in his system were legal and prescribed to him by his doctor with hopes of stimulating natural testosterone production. Sonnen revealed that he has been having fertility issues and the drugs have helped him and his wife to finally receive their first child.

I wonder what the public’s perception is on Chael Sonnen and the UFC organization. I’m sure that this type of situation occurs frequently in the world of sports. Every athlete trying to get a small edge over his/her opponent.  But this doesn’t just stop at the athletes. Coaches, owners, and even leagues are trying to find ways to stay on top and bring in more revenue. It’s true that this situation might negatively effect of publics perception of Chael Sonnen and the UFC. Unfortunately all athletes and organization have a lot more to worry about. For example, illegal betting, thrown fights (UFC or Boxing), after fight brawls, and press conference outburst can shine a negative light on the athlete and the organization he/she represents. Another way that an organization can receive bad publicity is through the athletes or owners off the field antics. This includes DUI’s, assault, and player abuse, bar brawls, illegal weapon charges, and homicide. In recent years with social media athletes are so connected through Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter that their apology statements are almost immediately posted. Normally, it’s those statements that are read on ESPN, not a personal on camera apology.

So, is the publics perception of the UFC and Chael Sonnen diminished? I would say yes. But at least it’s not Major League Baseball. Happy retirement Chael.

If you want to read the entire story of how Chael failed his drug test press this link-ESPN Chael Sonnen Fails Random Drug Test

If you want to read about Chael Sonnens' retirement announcement press this link-Chael Sonnen Retires

Out with the OLD, In with the NEW



2014 Men's World Cup Soccer Team

To an inexperienced fan of soccer, what do you look for when you look at the 2014 Men’s World Cup Soccer Team? For me I look for one person, Landon Donovan. Whether you follow soccer religiously or gather with a friend to watch USA during the Olympic or World Cup, everyone knows Landon Donovan. Landon is considered by many to be the most decorated USA soccer player in history. He leads all Americans with 57 career goals, 12 World Cup games appearances and 5 World Cup goals. Unfortunately, Landon Donovan won’t be making the trip to Brazil to play on the 2014 USA Men’s Team. According to an article written on time.com (http://time.com/110022/landon-donovan-cut/), Coach Klinsmann warned the veterans two years ago that when he took over USA Soccer that no one is guaranteed a spot on the team. He expected every player to compete for their position at every practice and not assume that they are automatically a starter.

I gained my knowledge of Landon when I was on an LDS mission in Portugal in 2002 during the World Cup. The United States was able to upset Portugal with a 3-2 victory. That night was a bad night to be an American in Portugal. No one wanted to talk to the two American boys wearing white shirts and ties. What everyone wanted to talk about was how surprised they were with the United States defense and the ability of some guy named Donovan. This was the first time I’ve ever heard of Landon Donovan. As you might have already figured out, I don’t really follow soccer. I would probably consider myself a social fan, only watching soccer or Donovan during the World Cup or the Olympics.




Portuguese Fan Painting the Streets Red & Green



As for the Portuguese, I would say that they would be considered vested fans. A lot of them have emotional ties to both the game of soccer and the players that represent them on their National Team. In Portugal, the world cup is like the Superbowl of soccer. Every town has a ritual to gather together to watch and cheer on the Portuguese National Team. I’ve never seen so many people dressed up in sports attire in my whole life. It was like a sea of red and green Portuguese player’s jersey rolling down the streets. At the time I thought that the Portuguese people were crazy.

It’s just a soccer game, right?

The answer is no, it’s not just a soccer game to the Portuguese people. Soccer is a huge part of their lives.  They know the stats of each player and the teams they play on when they’re not playing for Portugal. I also think that the Portuguese people feel socially connected to one another when they gather together to watch their National hero’s take on another country. It’s them against the world, and when the team wins, they win. The team’s achievements are their achievements. They are true fans in the sense. But, when the team loses, they too lose. Their emotional tie to their team and players are unmatched.

Landon Donovan with USA Flag

I wish the USA Men’s Soccer Team the best in this upcoming World Cup. Even though I’m saddened by the new that the only player I really can relate to isn’t playing anymore, I’m still an American. I will always support team USA.

Here are some extra links and videos for your enjoyment.

http://news.lalate.com/2014/05/22/landon-donovan-doesnt-make-jurgen-klinsmann-usmnt-2014-world-cup-roster/

http://www.espnfc.com/league-name/story/1862206/headline

BANISHMENT ! ! ! !

It’s true that as a society, we have come a long way from the days of selling slaves and forcing them to work in the cotton fields. But, if you think that racism has completely died since the days of Martin Luther King, then you’re totally wrong.  Racism is like the plague that can’t be killed and if you would like evidence of racism, all you have to do is turn on the 10 o’clock new. From the work place to the church one attends on Sunday, racism still has a heartbeat.

Racism can even be found in sports. Former hall of fame NFL player Reggie White made some racial comments about Native Americans and Asians. ESPN talk show host Rob Parker even went so far as to call NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III a “Cornball brother.” Stereotypical comments like these can be found in every sport and on every playing field in America. But no comments were so brutal as the comments made by former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling.



V. Stiviano Instagram
photo with Magic Johnson



Donald Sterling and his girlfriend V. Stiviano had a conversation that was caught on tape in which Sterling degraded the African American people. Apparently the whole argument started when his girlfriend posted a picture on Instagram of her and NBA legend Magic “Irving” Johnson. Sterling wasn’t happy with the photos being posted for the whole world to see and mentioned to Stiviano that she shouldn’t be associated with black people. He even suggested that she erase all of her black friends from Instagram. He also told Stiviano that he doesn’t want her bringing “black people” to his Clipper games. When Stiviano finally confronts Sterling by informing him that he hires black players Sterling responds by saying that he supports his players by giving them food, clothes, money, houses and cars.

Many fans, players and owners responded to Donald Sterling’s comment. Some went on ESPN and made their opinions known of what they thought of the comments and what they think should happen to Donald Sterling. Others decided to fire back on social media like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Even the great Magic “Johnson stated that he wouldn’t attend another Los Angeles Clippers game as long as Donald Sterling is the owner. However, the biggest statement wasn’t made by one single person; it was made by the LA Clippers themselves. During a playoff game against the Warriors, the Clippers players decided to take off their normal warm up jerseys with the Clippers logo on it to reveal a pure red t-shirt with nothing on it. The symbolism was clear; they’re playing for each other not the owner (http://www.nba.com/2014/news/04/27/clippers-silent-protest-donald-sterling.ap/). You can tell that the relationship between the players were strong, but the relationship between them and management had been tarnished.

Three days after the tape was leaked new NBA President Adam Silver held a press conference to announce Donald Sterlings' future with the NBA. According to article written on ESPN.com (http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/nba/story/_/id/10857580/donald-sterling-los-angeles-clippers-owner-receives-life-ban-nba), President Silver issued Donald Sterling a life ban from the NBA. This means that Sterling would be immediately banned from attending any NBA games or practices as well as being present in any NBA building for business or personal decision relating to any NBA teams or players. Sterling was even fined by the NBA 2.5 million dollars. President Silver was very stern and clear noting that there is no place for racism in the NBA. This has been the stiffest punishment ever issued to a team owner as well as to someone associated with the NBA.

Several weeks later, former owner Donald Sterling sold the LA Clippers for 2 billion dollars.  It’s sad that our society frequently falls into patterns where racial profiling occurs. No person should be judged by another due to his/her race, ethnicity, or gender. Just as President Silver said that there is no place for racism in the NBA, there should also be no place for racism in the world we live in.

Here is the full video conference of NBA President Adam Silver banning Donald Sterling.

The Kiss Seen Around the World

Michael Sam
Co-defensive Sec Player of the Year

On the last day of the 2014 NFL draft, commissioner Roger Goodell stepped to the podium to announce one of the final picks of the draft.

“With the 249^th pick of the 2014 NFL draft, the St. Louis Ram select, defensive end Michael Sam from the University of Missouri”.

You might be thinking to yourself, what’s so special of the 249^th pick? It’s the last day of the draft. These picks normally don’t even make the final roster. Well, Michael Sam just made history. He’s the co-defensive SEC player of the year as well as an All-American. His senior year Sam collected an impressive 11.5 sacs. But, he’s not making history for his college stats. He’s making history because Michael Sam is the first open gay player to be drafted into the NFL. In February Michael Sam decided to announce to the world that he is gay. Since then the news has been a buzz though out not only traditional media, but also social media. Michael was even on the cover of Sports Illustrated with the caption saying, “American is ready for Michael Sam. Is the NFL ready for Michael Sam?

Sports Illustrated Cover

Unfortunately, a lot of gay player hide the fact that they are gay to avoid being ostracized by teammates and the media. Brittany Griner hid her sexuality because Baylor University had a so called “unwritten policy”. Michael Sam is different. He never backed down from questions or comments addressing his sexuality.

Michael Sam celebrated his entrance into the NFL at his house with his closest friends, family, and partner. Coach Jeff Fisher was able to call Michael to inform him that he wanted Michael to be a St. Louis Ram. The video below will show the emotions that Michael Sam was feeling when he received the call from Coach Fisher as well as the kiss which caused so much controversy.

That video and other similar videos swarmed EPSN, ABC, NBC, and every type of social media you can think of. Just as you might be forming your own opinion of the appropriateness of the kiss, many individuals were congratulating Michael for his success. His new teammate All-Pro defensive end Robert Quinn said that he’s only worried about what Michael does on the field. Quinn even believes that Sam has already proven himself on the football field.

According to the NFL.com and an article written by Marc Sessler (http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000349371/article/michael-sam-drafted-by-st-louis-rams-at-no-249), even President Barack Obama sent his congratulations.

President Barack Obama

"The President congratulates Michael Sam, the Rams and the NFL for taking an important step forward today in our Nation's journey. From the playing field to the corporate boardroom, LGBT Americans prove everyday that you should be judged by what you do and not who you are."

Unfortunately, not everyone thought that the kiss was very appropriate. One of those players is Don Jones from the Miami Dolphins. Don tweeted some comments which in the end received him a fine from the Dolphins organization as well as mandatory educational training. Just another fine example how social media and in the heat of the moment comments can hurt athletes.

Whether you feel America or the NFL are ready for gays to be a part of professional sports, the time is here. More and more gay and lesbian athletes are not afraid to hide what they’ve been hiding for years. Good luck Michael in the NFL.

Here are some other links with videos coverage of Michael Sam's draft experience.

http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2014/story/_/id/10913755/2014-nfl-draft-michael-sam-drafted-st-louis-rams-seventh-round

http://abcnews.go.com/US/rams-make-michael-sam-openly-gay-player-drafted/story?id=23667100

http://news.sky.com/story/1259825/michael-sam-kiss-goes-viral-as-nfl-player-fined

Title Fight at Fatburger

Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Who would have thought that on a Sunday night in Las Vegas, you could go down to your local Fatburger restaurant and catch a title fight featuring Floyd “Money “ Mayweather Jr. Floyd Mayweather is considered by many to be one of if not the best boxer to ever lace up a pair of boxing gloves. He has an unblemished record of 46-0, 26 of those wins coming via KO. His ability to adapt to a fight and counter punch his opponent are virtually unmatched. The only problem is that this fight wasn’t on Pay-Per-View, HBO, or even Showtime.  It was literally at a Fatburger restaurant on the Las Vegas strip.

Now you might be thinking to yourself, who in their right mind would be dumb enough to challenge a man who hands are registered lethal weapons? That man is none other than Clifford Joseph Harrison Jr. Who? Well… you might know him better as T.I., the rapper.



According to TMZ (http://www.tmz.com/2014/05/25/t-i-mayweather-fight-video-vegas-about-tiny-fatburger-wife-stabbing/), the incident started when T.I.’s wife Tameka “Tiny” Cottle posted pictures on Instagram of her with the world champ and his daughter. What allegedly pushed T.I. over the edge was that Tiny called Floyd Mayweather’s daughter her “new boo”. T.I. was very upset with Tiny because he felt disrespected that she would post those types of pictures. T.I. decided to confront the champion and that’s when a brawl broke out. Chairs and punches were thrown between both entourage. Both T.I. and Floyd left before the authorities arrived at the scene.



Tiny & her "new boo"

There is no question that most people get their sport news through what is consider to be traditional sports media like ESPN, FOX Sports, or their local newspaper. But, there is a new wave of media that is taking the world by storm. With Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and Tumblr, social media is newest and hottest way for everyone to get information right at their fingertips. Social media is the perfect way that fans are able to stay connected with their favorite athletes, teams, or organization. Though social media has a lot of benefits, you can also see from this example that social media can get athletes in trouble. Isn’t it amazing that T.I. was so heated because his wife posted picture for all her followers to see. Tons of athletes will post their thoughts and feelings on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter and then later regretting their comments.  A good example is Matt Barnes from the Los Angeles Clipper. He made some comments about his teammate Blake Griffin after he was fined for by the NBA for a fight that broke out during a game. He was later remorseful for his comment and released an apology to the Clippers organization, the NBA, and his teammate Blake Griffin.