Friday, December 10, 2010

Byron Scott's Wife Wants Byron To Get More Vocal With Officials


I guess it would be good if someone got a little angry over the declining fortunes of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

One would assume that the catalyst of such -- spirit -- would be a player, or the owner, or one of the coaches. But it turns out that Byron Scott's wife Anita is front and center with a unique reason to get her husband to fire up and get a little verbal with the referees.

According to an article on ProBasketballTalk at nbcsports.com, Mrs. Scott gets a shopping spree from her husband of equal value to any fine he might incur from the league. In other words, if Scott gets hit with a $50K fine, it is a $50K spending spree for the Mrs.

Hey, whatever works, right? Some fire from Scott might turn the tables in a game or two along the way, and when the NBA takes a bite out of Scott's wallet, the coach's wife goes shopping.

What a bargain!

 
 
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Pinata Tied and Golden


sized_New Picture (16)

I wrote a thing for FanHouse this week about the very, very serious man Ron Artest has become. You should read out, but here's the gist: Ron Ron was once taken seriously in a bad way, then became a harmless joke, and now, through his advocacy of mental health issues, has once again turned his persona into something that matters. Reading yesterday's Marc Spears column on Gilbert Arenas, these days, I had a similar thought.

I've been understanding this season's Arenas as sad, sunken epilogue. The quotes he gives are, for someone who had so much invested in his days of might, heart-rending. Even his description of himself as "controlled chaos" from the beginning of last season -- which at the time, seemed forced and unhappy, and soon thereafter, the worst kind of irony -- now makes me smile. That's what Gil did at his peak: he made us smile. When he describes himself as an entertainer, it's not in performative, WWE-sort of way. Rather, he was a play who, through basketball, could remind us of that part of brains that's there to be tickled and confounded. "Enigmas" in sports are troubling if the game is an equation to be solved. We know it's much more than that, though, and so the 2002-2007 Arenas can never be erased.

Wipe that tear away. We had a while with him, and while it would have been great for Gil to keep it up forever, at least he gave us (and got) that five-year joy ride. The more I read of him these days, the less I think he needs our pity. Sympathy, maybe, but we should take note not only of the fact that he's changed, but that -- unlike in other comebacks -- he's fairly comfortable in what he's become. Maybe it's resignation, and yet there's no question that Arenas has assumed a new role in the grand scheme of the league. Not necessarily wise, or entirely disinterested, he has the perspective that comes only with losing it all and then piecing yourself back together again. No question, ruminative Gil is a function of circumstance. But there's something Sheed-like about statements like:

"When a young guy is coming in, the older guy never wants to move over," Arenas said. "But I know my time here is over [as the face of the franchise]. I messed up my legacy here"

"It's still basketball. The rules don't change for the bench players. I learned a lot from the whole Iverson experience. Not get a job because I can't adapt to my environment? I'm sure I can adapt to any environment.

"In this league there is no such thing as long-term anymore. Players are getting shipped out and shipped out. I'm looking at the Kings like, when I first came [into the league], none of those players were here. The Lakers team, the only person that was there was Kobe [Bryant], and Derek Fisher came back."

Arenas is resigned to what he's become. In that, though, there's also resolve -- resolve to not only make sense of his situation and find a realistic path forward. More importantly, these are hard truths about the league, ones we could stand to here. They're certainly useful to have out there in public, probably even for younger players to hear.

Sports radio loves to talk about players who "get it". In that universe, Arenas never did "get it". Now, he "gets it", except "it" isn't about killer instinct or locker room chemistry. He never really did play by those rules -- he was "an assassin" to the point of absurdity, and we all know what his idea of a lively locker room led to. That doesn't mean, though, that others can't learn from him, whether or not they brought a Desert Eagle to the Verizon Center. Gilbert Arenas says these things not because he could give a fuck less, or in hopes of making us all weepy on his behalf. He does it because he doesn't have any choice. He's always been incapable of self-censoring, and perhaps was a bit too honest at times. The difference is, these days there's real substance to what he's selling.
 
 
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Dale Earnhardt Jr. top list of biggest disapppointments for 2010


Many of the top stars we expected to shine in 2010 came through in a big way – Jimmie Johnson, Denny Hamlin and Kyle Busch. But some failed to produce the same results they did in 2009, or the results that were expected based on their records and history or the history of their respective teams. Here's a look at the most disappointing drivers in 2010:
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Scott Speed files $6.5 million lawsuit against Red Bull Racing


STATESVILLE, N.C. – NASCAR driver Scott Speed filed a $6.5 million breach-of-contract lawsuit Friday afternoon against Red Bull Racing, the team that released Speed following the 2010 season. In the lawsuit, filed in North Carolina Superior Court in Statesville, N.C., Speed claims that Red Bull did not fund the team as necessary to compete at the Cup level.
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F1 Team Orders Ban Is Lifted


The adoption of small capacity turbocharged 'green' engines in F1 for 2013 and a lifting of the Article 39.1 team orders ban were the main developments from the final 2010 meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council in Monaco today.
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F3 International Trophy created


The World Motor Sport Council has confirmed that a new Formula 3 International Trophy for drivers will be launched in 2011, in a bid to 'further increase the appeal' of the class and 'to help develop the careers of young aspirant racing drivers and engineers'.
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Stunning Audi R18 Le Mans racer revealed | F1 Fanatic round-up


Audi R18

Audi R18

Audi's new R18 Le Mans sports car looks better than most F1 cars if you ask me.

Links

Audi R18 Le Mans prototype unveiled with full roof, epic LEDs (Autoblog)

To me, Le Mans Prototypes should always be closed-cockpit coupes. I think the new Audi R18 looks gorgeous – especially in the black livery (which I don't expect will stay!) More pictures of this fabulous car below.

F1 World Champion 2010 – Sebastian Vettel (Make and model)

Infographic by Patrick.

David Wormald – A Formula 1 addict

Check out this blog by F1 Fanatic reader and live blog moderator David.

Peter Windsor on Twitter

"I hear that Tony Fernandes was told at the F1 Commission meeting yesterday that he "must" change his team name."

Will Buxton on Twitter

"Have it on good authority that Team Lotus has not been asked or told to change its name."

Comment of the day

No sympathhy for Nelson Piquet Jnr from Maksutov:

I don't care what Piquet says, his last and final attempt to make people feel sorry for him is not going to get him anywhere. We live in a world where bullying by your boss/manager in a professional sport, job or "level" doesn't work and hardly happens any more.

There are rules, civil and sport law that prevents this type of thing, and if appropriately addressed the victim is always a winner. Piquet had plenty of opportunity to come forward to FIA and WMSC to complain about the mistreatment, he could have done this behind closed doors at any time even without risking his seat. But he chose not to, so he can benefit from it in an unorthodox, crooked and corrupt manner. Sorry but to me that sounds no better than Briatore himself.

Piquet is just a sad loser and the more he says the more desperate and ridiculous he sounds. Briatore is nothing but an opportunistic corrupt business man, and he will continue to be like that forever. That is what got him to become rich in the first place.
Maksutov

From the forum

An unusual question from James_mc on what was the coldest Grand Prix. Ciaran Walsh suggests the 1978 Canadian Grand Prix.

Happy birthday!

A very happy birthday today to Connor Ryan!

On this day in F1

One year ago today the FIA announced that former drivers would assist the stewards during race weekends:

Audi R18 pictures

Allan McNish with the Audi R18 Audi R18 Audi R18 Audi R18 Audi R18 Audi R18

Image © Audi Motorsport



 
 
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2011 Ford Explorer V6 FWD Gets EPA Ratings of 17/25 mpg


Fuel economy for the new Ford Explorer V-6 has been rated by the EPA at 17 mpg city and 25 highway when equipped with front-wheel drive; with all-wheel drive, it returns 17/23 mpg. The Explorer's 290-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 will eventually be joined by an optional (and more expensive) 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, which should be more efficient but less powerful.

Unsurprisingly, the new Explorer consumes less fuel than its body-on-frame predecessor; the stingiest 2010 Explorer was the rear-wheel-drive V-8 model, rated at just 15/21 mpg by the EPA. The new economy figures meet or barely beat those of the Explorer's competition, as seen in the chart below.

Vehicle Engine City/highway MPG
2011 Ford Explorer V-6 3.5-liter V-6;
290 hp, 255 lb-ft		 17/25 mpg
2011 Ford Edge FWD 3.5-liter V-6;
285 hp, 253 lb-ft		 19/27 mpg
2011 Chevrolet Traverse FWD 3.6-liter V-6;
281 hp, 266 lb-ft		 17/24 mpg
2011 Dodge Durango RWD 3.6-liter V-6;
290 hp, 260 lb-ft		 16/23 mpg
2011 Honda Pilot FWD 3.5-liter V-6;
250 hp, 253 lb-ft		 17/23 mpg
2011 Mazda CX-9 FWD 3.7-liter V-6;
273 hp, 270 lb-ft		 17/24 mpg
 
 
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2010 BMW 750Li xDrive


Our lavish 7-series has us pondering a Colin Chapman approach to expenditures: add cheapness.

Date: December 2010
Months in Fleet: 12 months
Current Mileage: 35,655 miles
Average Fuel Economy: 18 mpg
Average Range: 391 miles
Service: $0.00
Normal Wear: $0
Repair: $0
Damage and Destruction: $3940

Can a car be too luxurious? We're asking ourselves that question as the 750Li nears the end of its 40,000-mile test. We're still smitten with the way the big BMW gulps miles, but the logbook has begun to fill with entries concerning different ways of making our 750Li better. Most of the time we wish our $120,675 7-series hadn't arrived so lavishly equipped. One driver wrote, "Even the most basic 7-series has enough luxury to satisfy any Louis XIV wannabes; I don't need the $6500 M Sport package, I'd pay $2400 to get rid of the $2400 active cruise control, and since I always have the driver nannies shut off, I could live without the $1350 Driver Assistance package." Another oft-criticized option is the $3700 Luxury Rear Seating package, which reduces the seat count of this giant car from five to four. Whether a family wants to take the big BMW on a road trip or five of us are running out to lunch, the 750Li never seems to have enough seats.

 
 
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Vettel: Red Bull on schedule with RB7


Newly crowned Formula 1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel has revealed that Red Bull Racing should begin testing with their 2011 car, the Adrian Newey-designed RB7, right from the very first group test at Valencia in February.
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France has hit rock bottom, says Prost


Four-time F1 World Champion Alain Prost believes France has become a 'little auto-phobic' and he believes Renault's decision to completely sell it Formula One team this week is the final nail in the coffin for the country.
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Nelson Piquet Jnr reveals how ‘Crashgate’ was planned | 2008 F1 season


Nelson Piquet Jnr, 2009

Nelson Piquet Jnr, 2009

Nelson Piquet Jnr has broken his silence over the conspiracy to cause a crash in the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

In an interview with The Times the team's former driver explained how Flavio Briatore and Pat Symonds devised the idea to help Fernando Alonso win the race.

Piquet said:

I could see they were nervous. The room was hot and very tense. I was quite surprised because Flavio is a very assured guy and I had not seen him like that.

"Symonds started talking first. 'Look, both cars are at the back of the grid," he told me. "We are in a situation where we are not going to get anywhere in this race unless something extraordinary happens."

Flavio agreed with him. "It would be a disaster for the team unless something extraordinary happened."

I just sat there listening because I couldn't figure out where this was going. They were both very fidgety and the situation was incredibly tense. I don't think I had said a word by this point.

It was only after five minutes that Flavio made his pitch. 'Look, the only way we can benefit in any way out here is by getting a safety car on the course at the right moment,' he said.

I just sat there, looking at them. They both reminded me of what had happened in Germany when someone [Timo Glock] had crashed just after I had pitted and I came second in the race. 'Do you want to help the team?' Flavio said. 'If you crash at the right moment, it could change everything.'
Nelson Piquet Jnr

He admitted: "I did not even consider the morality of it."

Piquet also claimed that a few days before the race Briatore urged him to sign a contract for 2009 which gave Renault the right to terminate the deal but prevented him from negotiating with other teams.

Piquet remained silent about the conspiracy until August 2009, after he had been dropped by the team. He settled a libel claim with the team earlier this week.

 
 
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8 in 1 Space do not think self-examination should be easy to change or to guard the fountain


"Chew Green Arrow, relax, beginning to play ten minutes; drink Mengniu, eating Amway, in the space of a September vote is easy!", Which is circulated on the world wide web last year, Yi Jianlian, a dig at the doggerel, as the Nets wound up the United Arab The beginning power forward, several consecutive 1 in the situation there. In the just-concluded road 91-116 Washington Wizards lost to the Sacramento Kings in the game, Yi Jianlian played 11 minutes again, 8 to vote to get 4 1 1 rebounds 1 steal, difference is that the poor performance of the play after beginning , the field was pressed back bench, replacing him is the second round rookie Booker.

In fact, the United Arab features is already evident, they explosive nice, mobile & strong, the most efficient style of play is to assault the basket surface. In fact, in this game, there is also the United Arab similar changes: the third quarter & 2 minutes & 18 seconds, the bottom line singles United Arab Thompson, this time they selected to cut in to the hook, though ultimately not hit, but Ah Start Alliance had been out of the opponent first, results from the assault, without doubt, than the previous low back playing better.

In the first quarter final 1 minute 30 seconds to play after the United Arab has been spent in the field 6 minutes & 30 seconds, until section 6 minutes & 54 seconds until finish. But in 6 minutes & 30 seconds, the United Arab performed what fans care about him dwellers: section II & 10 minutes & 57 seconds, inside the United Arab 45 degrees to the right place, Gilbert – Gilbert Arenas time-point, Thompson beat the United Arab sat, pressed inside, the United Arab sideways hook blacksmith. II & 10 minutes, United Arab steals Tai Leike – Evans, rounded out the inside of the basket does not again, got the rebound, the feint to strike while the iron shot rub; Wizards grab rebounds & play up front, after A third time to get the ball joint, but the assault was jogging earlier – 1 minute, 4 times the United Arab assault, 3 degrees blacksmith, 1 walk, although in 1 minute, hit the United Arab A record 18-foot jumper, but the ball had been unable to conceal his negative impact on several offensive.

However, in the outside world "soft inside" the criticism, the United Arab chosen to yield, sitting inside the network began to play more, but strong for those large black, the power of the United Arab significant fall in under the wind, the essential can not be pushed in a comfortable position inside shot, so that "in the space of a September vote basically," also often appeared.

No ability, capacity building is the most important tasks; have capacity, make the right choice is the most important task. Today, the United Arab is not without the ability to score, but the game 1-8 is definitely not lead to the United Arab competence. perhaps, the United Arab should rethink his assault choice.

The fans have been suggested to replace Armstrong, United Arab appearance, although the performance is pulpy middle. A fan named Icantfeelmyface initially opposed, but then saw a basket storm the United Arab fragmentation, they immediately changed his views, "Well, I think I should be supportive – & in this easy to read second dunk attempt, I think should change their attitude. "followed by a subject raised by netizens without Bracher, Yi Jianlian, or Lance Armstrong should be to partner McKee? United Arab answer will obviously disappointed, the majority supported Armstrong.

It looked ought to reflect on their own together, & go on like this, perhaps shortly after the 10 minutes will be extravagant, but once reduced to drinking fountains watchman, it might as well come back to chilled the domestic Laishua Shuawei Feng.

 
 

Brundle to take in Rolex 24 at Daytona


Former driver and BBC F1 television commentator Martin Brundle will take in the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona next month, competing with United Autosports in a Ford-Riley Daytona Prototype, it has been announced. Brundle will team up with friend and former F1 colleague Mark Blundell in the #23 entry, as well as Zak Brown and Mark Patterson.
 
 
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Thursday, December 9, 2010

Bob Feller, Indians Pitching Great, Placed In Hospice Care


Hall of Famer Bob Feller, who pitched for the Cleveland Indians, acknowledges the crowd before the Hall of Fame Classic baseball game in Cooperstown, N.Y., Sunday, June 20, 2010. (AP Photo/Kevin Rivoli)

Kevin Rivoli - ASSOCIATED PRESS

3 months ago: Hall of Famer Bob Feller, who pitched for the Cleveland Indians, acknowledges the crowd before the Hall of Fame Classic baseball game in Cooperstown, N.Y., Sunday, June 20, 2010. (AP Photo/Kevin Rivoli)

View full size photo »

The Indians' living legend and oldest living member of baseball's Hall of Fame is receiving treatment for acute myeloid leukemia.

Sad news from Cleveland late last night, where the Indians announced Bob Feller, a Hall-of-Fame inductee who spent all 18 seasons of his career with the Indians, has been placed in Hospice care at the Cleveland Clinic. Originally admitted to the Cleveland Clinic due to pneumonia, Feller was later diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, for which he is currently receiving treatment, which includes chemotherapy.

"Rapid Robert" joined the Indians organization in 1936, at age 17, fresh out of high school in Iowa. He played six seasons with Cleveland before leaving to fight in World War Two, and then returned for an additional 12 seasons. He received 93.8 percent of the Hall-of-Fame vote in 1962, his first year on the ballot, and ranks 37th on the career wins list, with 266. Incredibly, Feller led the American League in victories in six separate seasons. At the franchise level, Feller leads all Indians in victories, innings, strikeouts, complete games, and starts. In 1957, Cleveland retired his no. 19.

 
 
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Indians' Hall Of Fame Pitcher Bob Feller Moved To Hospice


Sad news, indeed. Bob Feller, possibly the Cleveland Indians' best ambassador, has been moved to hospice due to pneumonia, as a result of complications from leukemia.

Feller, who has been battling through different health problems the last few months, always seemed to bounce back better than ever. But things have been piling up for the 92 year old, between vertigo, thrush, leukemia treaments, and now pneumonia.

I've had the chance to meet Bob Feller and he is as a great a man as you'll ever meet. His brain was razor-sharp and he always seemed to be the Energizer Bunny of former players, going from card show to book signing to Indians Fantasy Camp and elsewhere.

Be well Bob. All of Cleveland is praying for you.

 
 
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Adams returns to practice


The Steelers got some good news Thursday when right tackle Flozell Adams returned to practice. It appears that Adams will not miss any time with the high ankle sprain he suffered Sunday night in Baltimore.

That's great news for a team that was looking at the prospect of starting its sixth different offensive line.

That won't be the case now as Adams is likely headed to his 13th start for the Steelers. He and Maurkice Pouncey are the only linemen to start every game this season.

© On another note, I'm sitting down to watch the Titans play the Colts and this thought came to me: Am I the only one creeped out by the Ray Lewis Old Spice commercial where he tears his own heart out, eats it and gets the little mini-Rays on his shoulder.

What ad agency thought that was a good idea?
 
 
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Worst of the Night: December 8, 2010


sad wiz bench plus sam
Sad Bench + Sam Cassell Sighting = WIN

The Denver Nuggets: Without Carmelo Anthony (inflammation in his right knee) and the Birdman (fractured bone in his lower back), the Nuggets quickly found themselves down 19 points to the Celtics in Boston. Some hot second quarter shooting by reserves Ty Lawson (team-high 24 points) and J.R. Smith (16 points) got Denver back into the game. But defense -- as in the complete and total absence of anything resembling it -- was their Walton's Foot: The Celts shot 68 percent in the first quarter, 64 percent during the first half, and 56 percent for the game.

Although, to be fair, when Ray Allen is heating up, all you can do is pray.

This was what I call a "fly swatter" game. That is, Boston put a casual smackdown on the Nuggets. To put things into perspective, Semih Erden played the entire fourth quarter. That pretty much says it all.

Random stat: On the season, Denver is 1-6 when scoring under 100 points. All six losses were on the road.

The Cleveland Cavaliers: Allow me to quote myself from By The Horns:

It almost happened. The Bulls were this close to falling into the trap.

The Cavaliers entered last night's game having lost five in a row by an average of 22.2 points per defeat. In each of those five losses, the Cavs had given up more than 100 points.

Finally, Cleveland coach Byron Scott pulled out the defibrillator and tried to shock his team's pride back to life. He did that by calling his team out to the press.

Said Scott: "Everybody has to do some soul-searching. It's not an Xs and Os thing. We have to take pride in what we are doing. People drive right down the middle of the defense, and no one gets upset about it. Guys have to take more of an onus on guarding their man."

Cavs forward Antawn Jamison replied: "Are we going to fight or make excuses? We have to leave it on the line. These next few games are going to define the rest of the season."

Sure enough, Cleveland came out and played defense like it matters. Which it does. They blocked five shots, forced 16 turnovers and harrassed the Bulls into 44.9 percent shooting while holding them to 12 points below their season average. The Cavaliers entered the fourth quarter with a 68-60 lead.

So what saved the Bulls?

They say bad teams find ways to lose games. Well, Cleveland is ranked 29th in Offensive Rating for a reason, folks. Throughout the final 12 minutes, the Cavs chucked up some of the worst shots known to man. Their go-to shot of the fourth quarter was the contested three-pointer with plenty of time left on the clock.

In fact, Boobie Gibson's shot selection was so bad down the stretch that Bulls broadcaster Stacey King half-jokingly suggested naming Gibson Chicago's player of the game. The only clutch-time three the Cavs managed to convert was one that Mo Williams unintentionally banked in.

Seriously, Tom Thibodeau should send the Cavaliers a thank you note.
For fun, here's a recap of Cleveland's fourth quarter "offense" against the Bulls:

Boobie Gibson missed running 4-footer; Gibson turnover; Manny Harris missed three-pointer, Jawad Williams missed 17-footer; J. Williams missed three-pointer; Anthony Parker offensive rebound and put back; Ryan Hollins turnover (offensive foul); Parker made three-pointer; Antawn Jamison missed jumper; Jamison made shot and one; Mo Williams missed jumper; Gibson missed three-pointer; Gibson missed three-pointer; Jamison missed hook shot; Mo Williams made three-pointer (unintentionally banked in); Williams missed three-pointer; Jamison 1-for-2 at the line; Jamison missed three-pointer; Anderson Varejao turnover; M. Williams turnover; Gibson missed three-pointer; Varejao made layup; Varejao 1-for-2 at the line; M. Williams missed 16-footer; Gibson missed 15-footer; Jamison turnover; Gibson missed 33-footer.

Boobie Gibson, Worst Player of the Night: The numbers -- 4-for-16 from the field and 2-for-7 from downtown -- don't do his game the injustice it deserves. Note the two bold-faced threes from my recap of Cleveland's fourth quarter of doom. Boobie jacked up back-to-back triples with so little conscious that I think local police need to search his back yard for bodies.

And here was the worst part. With eight seconds left, Gibson managed to nab Mo Williams' missed shot and had a chance to tie the game with an open jumper. Only he rushed an off-balance shot while kicking out his legs to try and initiate some contact that might result in a foul call.

Had Gibson just taken a normal shot, he might have knotted the score. As it was, Noah rebounded Gibson's miss and Anderson Varejao was forced to foul him. Jo drilled both freebies (clutch!) to give the Bulls a four-point lead. As if the game wasn't already iced, Jamison threw a bad pass that was intercepted by Ronnie Brewer.

Game over.

Gibson played hard. No doubt about it. But he played stupid too.

The Detroit Pistons: Sigh. Sad face. Sad trombone. Sad everything. It's official: The Pistons have become The Clippers East.

Last night, Detroit scored only 74 points on 37 percent shooting and fell behind by as many as 25 points before losing by 19. They managed to score 20 points in only one of the three quarters. And it's kind of ironic, too, since their top players are of the "offense only" variety.

Said Detroit coach John "It's just about time to start looking for a new job" Kuester: "We couldn't score. Our guys were trying hard. When the ball is not going in the hole, it puts you in a bind and you have to put so much pressure on your defense."

Yeah. Especially when your defense sucks.

Tracy McGrady watch: The line: 1-for-4, 0-for-2 on threes, 2 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, a steal, a turnover and a foul. And the Pistons were outscored by 15 points during his 19 minutes of playing time.

The Minnesota Timberwolves: Despite playing at home, building a 40-22 first quarter lead, and getting another Animal-Style double-double from Kevin Love (22 points, 21 rebounds), the Timberwolves couldn't do anything to stop Kevin Durant (30 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists), Russell Westbrook (25 points, 8 assists) or the Thunder (52 percent shooting, 50 points in the paint, 21 fast break points).

Oklahoma City outscored Minny by 26 points over the final three quarters as the Timberwolves went colder and colder. But what can a team do when their top two scorers combine to go 18-for-49 -- including 3-for-18 in the fourth quarter -- and couldn't find the guys they're supposed to be guarding even if they were locked in a closet with them?

I should point out that the forest puppies were missing Darko Milicic and Anthony Tolliver. That, uhm, might've meant something. I guess.

Minnesota is now 1-8 in games decided by eight points or less.

Said Timberwolves coach Kurt Rambis: "We really still don't have a leader on the team, a go-to guy, that calming force that takes control of a situation. We don't have that yet. That's Durant for them. He calms it down."

The Washington Wizards Generals: Believe it or not, the Kings -- and not the Clippers -- began Wednesday with the worst record in the league. Eight-game losing streaks will do that to a team. Fortunately for the Purple Paupers, John Wall sat out of the game with a sore foot despite being announced as a starter during the pre-game intros.

Still, even that doesn't quite explain why the Generals lost so badly. I mean, the Kings jacked their asses up big time. The Sactowners shot 54 percent from the field, won the rebounding battle 48-36, and built a 32-point lead before cruising in for a 116-91 victory.

Pimp-slapped by the NBA's worst team? For shame, Generals. For shame.

Washington has now lost three straight and seven of their last eight overall. And they're now 0-12 on the road. And here's a little lemon juice in the wound...

Update! JaVale McGee An anonymous commenter demanded I include this:


Said Gilbert Arenas: It's frustrating that we are two different teams -- a great team at home and a terrible team on the road. We just have to find a happy medium."

The Phoenix Suns: Ugh. Here's what the AP recap had to say:

Zach Randolph just loves playing the Phoenix Suns.

Randolph scored a season-high 34 points, Rudy Gay had 22 and the Memphis Grizzlies rallied to beat Phoenix 104-98 in overtime Wednesday night.

Randolph made 15 of 19 shots from the field and also had 17 rebounds. The 6-foot-9 burly forward is averaging 23 points and 17 rebounds in three games against Phoenix this year, and 22.3 points and 14.4 boards in his last seven games against the Suns overall.
I'm gonna try not to think about their 10 missed free throws or how they went 7-for-30 from downtown or how they wasted a furious fourth quarter comeback. All I can think is: You have to be able to stop Zach Randolph.

The Phoenix defense is really like a Christmas ornament: Empty inside.

Rudy Gay, quote machine: "Zach was vintage Zach tonight."

Really? I thought this was vintage Zach:


The Golden State Warriors: The surprising Spurs ran their record to 18-3, setting a new franchise record for the best start in a season through 21 games, and they did it against the Gol_en State Warriors. San Antonio has now won 25 straight home games against the Warriors.

Surprise, surprise.

In all fairness to the Warriors, they did lose Stephen Curry in the second quarter due to a sprained right ankle. But while that probably affected their offense (94 points on 45 percent shooting), I doubt it had much of an effect on their defense (111 points on 51 percent shooting).

Said Gol_en State coach Keith Smart: Any time you lose a talent, you drop down three or four levels. Not having him on the floor was definitely difficult because I had to move a lot of players around to positions to bring some of the younger guys off the bench to play. You have very little room for error against a team like this."

And if the Warriors need anything, it's plenty of room for error.

Bonus stat: According to the AP game notes, the Spurs' 25 straight home wins against the Warriors is the longest active streak of its kind for any NBA team against a single opponent.

The Utah Jazz: Thanks, Jazz. You totally blew everybody's "The Heat can't beat good teams" theory all to hell. Thanks for that.

LeBron (33 points, 12-for-20) and D-Wade (28 points, 9-for-14) went off, obviously, but the real key was Zydrunas Ilgauskas drilling jumpers en route to a 7-for-10 shooting night. I'm pretty sure nobody saw that coming.

But the secret key to this game -- other than Utah going 1-for-7 from downtown -- was the Heat outrebounding the Jazz 42-28 and being, simply put, the tougher team.

Said Jerry Sloan: "I thought Miami was more physical than we were. It looked at times like we were intimidated [by James] and Wade. I wish we would have got up and after [James] like they were getting after us."

Oh, if only Kyrylo Fesenko hadn't missed the game with a sprained ankle!

The Toronto Craptors: This game was like a 25-letter alphabet: No D.

Andrea Bargnani scored a career-high 41 points to go along with 7 rebounds and 6 assists. Raymond Felton scored 20 of his 28 points in the first half and added 11 assists. Amar''''''e Stoudemire grabbed 14 rebounds (including 7 offensive boards) and exploded for 18 of his team-high 34 points in the fourth quarter. In the end, Felton decided the game with a crap shot that proved, if nothing else, the Craptors are who we thought they were:


And you know what that means...


Mike D'Antoni, quote machine: "I challenge anybody to guard Amare. And Bargnani's 7-feet, puts it on the floor and he shoots ... what are you going to do? Comes down to maybe missing one shot out of five and that's what happened. Amare just didn't miss. Just awesome." On that subject...

Update! Jose Calderon, defensive demon: Drake sent in this link:


Drake went on to say:

Granted, he's suddenly matched up with Amar'''''e. But after getting, err, okay defensive position despite the matchup, he goes on to play the rest of the defensive possession with his eyes closed. It's as if he were begging Amar'''''e to just get it all over with.

Bonus: this video was really meant to capture Ronny Turiaf's reaction to Amar'''''e's dunk. He dances like a white man/woman raving to guitar music, according to Dave Chappelle.
Andrea Bargnani, quote machine: On Felton's game-winner: "It was good defense by Calderon and what can you say about that shot? There is nothing to say about that shot."

The Indiana Pacers: Apparently, despite recent evidence to the contrary, they are who we thought they were:


The Los Angeles Clippers: And of course the Clippers are who we thought they were. Always. They were a mere three seconds worth of defense away from upsetting the Lakers when, well, you know...


Update! Ron Artest, quote machine: From Basketbawful reader Solieyu:

Artest is just lulz central this season. Donating half his salary next year to charity, talking about playing pro football after retiring, and now his comments on Blake Griffin:

"I haven't had a chance to study his game, but his highlights are sick," Artest said, spitting out the last word with a grin that made it clear he was just warming up to the subject.

"I wish he dunks on me, puts his shoulders on my face," Artest continued. "Crazy. His highlights are stupid."

If it happened, would Artest buy that poster?

"I'll buy it and tell him to sign it," Artest said.

Dude is comedy gold. But Griffin is a beast. That slam/foul all over Odom's back was ridiculous.
In related news, Lamar Odom will be cleaning Griffin's junk sweat off the back of his head for the next couple days...


Chris's lacktion report:

Bulls-Cavs: Ryan Hollins had himself a board in 10:35, but also had a foul and giveaway for a 2:1 Voskuhl.

Raptors-Knicks: Ronny Turiaf turned the ball over once and fouled four times, despite two boards and a free throw in 8:23, to earn a 5:3 Voskuhl. Fellow Knickerbocker Shawne Williams bricked once and fouled once in 11:17 for a +2 suck differential.

Pacers-Bucks: Indiana's Jeff Foster presided over three boards in 10:40, and also looked after a trio of fouls and a turnover for a 4:3 Voskuhl.

For the deer, Brian Skinner instinctively gathered 1.4 trillion (1:25) in banknotes!

Thunder-Wolves: Kosta Koufos crunched some numbers and found himself earning exactly 2.7 trillion (2:42)!

Warriors-Spurs: Dan Gadzuric managed one assist and one steal in 5:32, but fouled once for a 1:0 Madsen-level Voskuhl. Fellow Warrior Jeff Adrien sold some valuable Bay Area real estate worth 1.9 trillion (1:53).

Heat-Jazz: Joel Anthony celebrated the first time the Heat have beaten a good team this year by going on a 13-second Duck Hunt, ending up with a Mario.

For Utah, Francisco Elson feigned productivity with a board in 10:49, only to brick twice, foul twice, and lose the rock once for a 3:1 Voskuhl. Ronnie Price purchased some lacktivity in on a 4:26 appearance by the procurement of a brick from the ZCMI store and two fouls for a +3.

Generals-Kings: GASP! PURPLE PAUPERS WIN!? Celebrating tonight was Carl Landry, who did go 100% from the field (on one shot attempt) but had 1/3rd as many points as fellow pauper Darnell "Lacktion" Jackson in nearly the same amount of playing time (14:30). Four fouls and two turnovers led Landry into the land of Voskuhl ratios, in this case a 6:3!
 
 

Bawful After Dark: December 9, 2010


62749307
Hey Kuester, shouldn't you be coaching instead of eating an invisible sandwich during timeouts?

Suckramento assistant coach Mario Elie has been arrested for carrying on the tradition of getting arrested for drunken driving. George Maloof Jr, Antoine Wright, Andres Nocioni, and Eric Musselman must be proud. (h/t Chris)

Via Deadspin, here is a video of Antoine Walker airballing a free throw in his NBA D-League debut last night.


Good ol' Antoine. It's like he never left our lives...


Worst of the Night in Pictures:
Thunder Timberwolves BasketballThunder Timberwolves Basketball
"You're weirdin' me out, Durant"


62750035
Speaking of awkward...


Warriors Spurs Basketball
Keith Smart must have watched his Warriors play


62750797
Blake Griffin may be awesome, but this picture still summarizes the Clippers organization


Wizards Kings Basketball
Holy crap, this is almost as bad as yesterday's Yao/Knee-Mac man hug


Nationally Televised Games:
Celtics at 76ers, TNT, 8pm: The Sixers have won five in a row at home, but that's a bit of fool's gold. The closest thing to real competition they've seen in that stretch is a low-scoring grind against the Frail Blazers. They're like a poor man's version of the Knicks, and that is just truly sad because the Knicks are already the poor man's version of a mediocre to decent basketball team.

Also, three words (or one big hyphenated word): Shaq-A-Claus.

Magic at Frail Blazers, TNT, 10:30pm: Stat of the day: Vinsanity put up an amazing 2-for-21 shooting performance against the Blazers last season. I dread the day Vinsanity retires -- this blog will be deprived of so much content.

All The Other Games:
Nyets at Mavericks, 8:30pm: You know, the Nyets aren't as soul-crushingly horrible as last year. They are still, however, at least soul-bruisingly horrible.
 
 

Lowe's relationship with Cup champion Jimmie Johnson paying dividends for Ko...


So you're Jimmie Johnson's biggest sponsor and he's just won his fifth championship. Where do you go next in NASCAR? Home improvement retailer Lowe's is going in for more promotion of its in-house line of tools, Kobalt, for starters.
 
 
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Petrov still favourite for Lotus Renault GP


Vitaly Petrov hopes of staying with Lotus Renault GP have received a boost, after Genii Capital Chairman Gerard Lopez, co-owner of the team, and Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar, both said they are keen to see the Russian retained alongside Robert Kubica for next season.
 
 
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Brundle top on first day at Barcelona


Alex Brundle stormed to the head of the timesheets to finish fastest overall on the opening day of winter testing at Barcelona today. The Briton, fourth and second in the day's earlier sessions, set his overall best, a 1:37.722, with 12 minutes of the session remaining.
 
 
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2012 Volkswagen Golf R Confirmed for U.S. – Car News


2012 Volkswagen Golf R U.S.-Spec Official Photos and Info

Volkswagen grants our wishes and approves the Golf R for U.S. sale.

A few days ago, we told you it was all-but confirmed, and now we have the official word: Volkswagen will sell the previously Europe-only Golf R on our shores beginning in 2012. The company says the decision was made in response to "the request of VW enthusiasts," who apparently couldn't live without the highest-performance Golf

 
 
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Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Tom Brady is the best of this era


[WEEI] [NY Daily News] [Extra Points] [ESPN NFL Nation] [ESPN Boston] [NESN]

He's the best of this era. That's what I thought about when I watched last night's ballgame. He's the best we're going to see in a while. And he's right now about like a Joe Montana in 1990, who was the last QB's victorious when two teams this heavily loaded meet on Monday Night Football. And it was a similar rout.

Brady is better than Peyton Manning, he's better than Philip Rivers, he's better than anyone who has played in the last 10 years. The guy is a football prodigy. He's better than Brett Favre, that goes for in any stadium or in cold weather as well. The way that Tom Brady mastered throwing in the weather last night was a thing of beauty. Even if you're like me and you wanted the Jets to win.

The Patriots should be the favorite to win the Super Bowl. And it's because of Brady and Belichick. Like a magical conjunction. I think that as a fan of the NFL--we should all be upset that we can't see 15 more years of Tom Brady. He's absolutely amazing. And every time you think you have seen the best out of him, he comes back and does something else pretty special.

Last night it was a couple tutors teaching the students. The Jets were blown away, and this game wasn't really enjoyable from the onset. The Jets will be a 5th or 6th seed, while the Patriots will probably host home-field throughout the playoffs.
 
 
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Cavs Lose Fifth In A Row By 10 Or More Points; Sixers Latest Beneficiaries


Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) – The 76ers found a way to beat Cleveland at home.

Then again, everyone is picking on the Cavaliers these days.

Thaddeus Young scored a game-high 26 points off the bench to lead the Sixers to a 117-97 win Tuesday that snapped an eight-game home losing streak to the Cavs dating back nearly five years.

Jodie Meeks started for the second game in a row and scored 16 points and Jrue Holiday also had 16 for the Sixers, who have won four of five since a 1-8 stretch.

J.J. Hickson scored 18 to lead the Cavs, who have lost five straight games — all by 10 points or more.

 
 
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Tuesday with Tomlin, Miller likely out


Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that tight end Heath Miller is likely out for Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Miller, of course, suffered a concussion against the Ravens.

But, Tomlin said that backup Matt Spaeth, who has missed the past two weeks with a concussion, has been cleared to play.

The Steelers signed punter Jeremy Kapinos to replace Daniel Sepulveda.

Aaron Smith had an MRI Monday and has been cleared to begin lifting weights.

I'm told he's targeting the Carolina or Cleveland games for a return.

Flozell Adams has what Tomlin deemed a "mild" high ankle sprain.

If he cannot play, Trai Essex would start in his place at right tackle.
 
 
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Yao Ming can not expect fans to respect the Pistons back fighting the city’s


Rockets at Toyota practice facilities for the training center, Yao did not participate in combat training team, which means Yao scheduled Dec. 7 game against the Pistons and McGrady did not reach the goal in the comeback, and plans to return will be delayed.

This morning, Rockets, Grizzlies and Bulls on the back to back road games for the first time after training, the team yesterday, the training lasted about two hours. Yao Ming in the field of training, media and opening up, Yao Ming and Lowry two people to vote in the shopping area of practice, apparently, the general feeling of Yao Ming shot. Then, Yao Ming and the players under the direction of Canning, program director, himself a shot person. It seems that Yao bad mood, but not scratching his beard looks a bit messy. Yao Ming after training, but also with Rockets general manager Ted – Brown had a long conversation, the discussion seems to be in some business matters.

According to Rockets coach Rick Adelman added, Yao looks great today, but did not address the audience to participate in the team, Adelman said this was the decision made by a physician. A handsome hope Yao can participate in practice Wednesday. This means that Yao Ming could not tomorrow night at home against the Pistons in the game back and Tracy McGrady.

Yao said in an interview later, the doctor who is still unable to training. "Said the doctor, the doctor said." Yao said: "My ankle can not be too hard, no ankle injury, but not hard, let me run and jump freely, doctors only made under this decision."

When a change of its own, said Yao, not talk. "We have not talked about it." Yao said.

If they can be trained to the day after tomorrow, Yao said, "I'll try, but now guarantees nothing."

This means that when Yao Ming back once again caught in a "no timetable".

Tomorrow night, the Rockets play at home against Detroit, it's Tracy McGrady since February this year, the Rockets trade was the first time since playing in Houston. Between Yao Ming and Tracy McGrady, a lot of "love and hatred," but, Yao said he and Tracy McGrady had from a couple of years with success, there are good memories. "He was wounded, has experienced a very difficult time, and this, I understand, deeply understand and know how difficult dealing with injuries. Kneeling, his back injury had plagued him for many years struggling with the injury. "said McGrady Yao Ming comments:" When we play together, along with the success in Houston spent a couple of years, those are good memories, I only wish him good luck. "

However, Yao is still a joke, I hope tomorrow night Tracy McGrady no luck, because now they are rivals. "Of course, not tomorrow." Yao Ming, so everyone laughed.

Yao Tracy McGrady said he hopes to play again. Tracy McGrady in Houston a few years, there has been too much controversy, and Houston fans may be greeted with boos Tracy McGrady, who said Houston's Tracy McGrady Yao five years efforts be made to comply.

"In a year where the ball hit a player, that is his trademark five years as a player, you have to respect him for everything he did in Houston. This is my idea." Yao said.

"You think?" The reporter asked Yao Ming.

"At least I will." Yao said.

Of course, in any case, Yao Ming was lost to participate in the showdown with the Pistons, which means Tracy McGrady trip home will be a monologue. February this year when the Rockets after the transaction, this is the first time back to the TMAC Toyota Center. Only in Madison last season, Tracy McGrady had not met with him five years of Yao Ming, and the Toyota Center this season, MM remains lost meet in the game.

 
 
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Sam Hornish Jr. May Return to Indy 500

LAS VEGAS -- Three-time IndyCar champ and 2006 Indianapolis 500 winner Sam Hornish Jr.'s NASCAR future remains in limbo, but his team owner, Roger Penske, said Thursday that he will likely field Hornish in the Daytona 500 and possibly in the Indianapolis 500, too.

Penske confirmed the news during a sponsorship announcement at his Ferrari dealership in the Wynn Las Vegas Thursday, where the team unveiled Kurt Busch's new No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Dodge in the Sprint Cup Series and a similar design for the iconic No. 3 Penske car that three-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves will drive at Indy next May.

For all his success in open-wheel racing, Hornish has never managed to make a big splash in NASCAR's big leagues, with only a pair of top-five finishes and eight top-10 efforts in 108 starts over three full seasons. And with no primary sponsor signed for his No. 77 Dodge, Penske said Hornish still doesn't have a full schedule set for 2011. Penske said both a limited Cup and Nationwide Series slate were possibilities.

"I told him that, at the end of the day, I'd much rather do a program where we can support you 100 percent than have some pick-up program with not enough sponsors,'' Penske said. "We need to have the continuity. We have a number of opportunities, but we just couldn't get them closed at this point.
 
 
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Off Wing Opinion NHL Team Flip Video Camera Giveaway


Off Wing Opinion is happy to announce that we're working with Cisco's Flip Video to help launch the introduction of 30 uniquely designed NHL team Flip video cameras. And in the process, we'll be giving away the Washington Capitals version of the camera to one lucky reader here at Off Wing Opinion.

Normally I turn down offers like this one, but given that I've used the Flip myself before to cover the NHL, I was inclinded to participate.  I've owned a Flip Mino since December 2008, and used it to cover the 2009 NHL Winter Classic in Chicago for FanHouse. The Flip went wherever I went when I was at Wrigley Field. It was easy to use and it performed flawlessly, especially during the game when I was shuttling between the press box and the stands in between periods to interview fans.

Here's an interview I did with Detroit's Darren McCarty after his first time on the ice at Wrigley. News of Claude Lemieux's comeback with the Sharks had just hit the news, and given their history, I felt I had to ask McCarthy what he thought about it.

So how can you get your hands on one of the Flip NHL video cameras? One, you can buy one by going to theflip.com/nhl and plunking down $149. Barring that, you can always enter the contest here at Off Wing Opinion. Here are the rules: Tell me via the comments section below, on my Facebook page or to my Twitter feed how you would use your Washington Capitals-branded Flip NHL team video camera. I'll select a winner at random from all of the entries that I receive by 6:00 p.m. U.S. EST tonight. And yes, entries from spam bots will be disregarded.

Below is the official announcement from my new friends at Flip about the NHL branded cameras. They'll be sending me one as well, so look for a review of the camera here at Off Wing Opinion sometime in the next few days.

One of hockey's most iconic phrases – "he shoots, he scores" may soon be replaced by "he shoots, he shares" - as Cisco's Flip Video™, and the National Hockey League® (NHL) team up to offer 30 uniquely designed NHL team Flip video cameras. In addition, Flip Video will offer Facebook fans a chance to win Flip cameras and a trip to the 2011 NHL All-Star Game presented by Discover. Select NHL.com reporters will also receive NHL-branded Flip video cameras to capture all the hockey action on and off the ice.

Beginning December 7, fans can choose their own official NHL Flip video camera with a custom design from any one of the 30 NHL teams from the U.S. and Canada. A perfect gift for hockey lovers, the new Flip designs are available through the Flip Video online store: theflip.com/NHL. The NHL-branded Flips will be offered on all of the latest Flip video cameras including the Flip UltraHD, MinoHD and SlideHD*, starting at $149, for anytime shoot and share fun.

Edmonton Oilers right wing Jordan Eberle and Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin are among the many celebrities and sports icons featured in the Flip Video 2010 holiday campaign 'Do You Flip?'

"Flip is the only video camera on the market that consumers can customize and select from thousands of unique designs. Our ability to offer customization has enabled us to team with the NBA and now the NHL, which was a natural extension for our brand," said Jodi Lipe, director of marketing for Cisco's Consumer Products. "Whether it's at the Stanley Cup Final or an afternoon snowball fight with friends, Flip video cameras are a fun and simple way to capture and share videos with friends and family."

"Hockey fans are in a class of their own when it comes to diehard loyalty," said Dave McCarthy, NHL Vice President Integrated Marketing. "Owning a Flip video camera representing their favorite team is a great way for fans to show support and more importantly have fun sharing their passion with fellow hockey fans and friends around the world."

To help promote the new NHL designs, Flip is hosting a contest called the Flip Video Fan Face-off that will give away one grand prize trip for two to the 2011 NHL All-Star Game in Raleigh, North Carolina, January 30, as well as daily prizes of NHL-custom designed team Flips every day in December. Hockey fans can face-off for these cool prizes starting on December 9, 2010 at www.facebook.com/flipvideo.

Flip Video is the only video camera line to feature official designs from the NHL and all 30 NHL teams so fans can show their affinity for their favorite NHL team while shooting and sharing video with others at games, parties or events. Flip video cameras make it easy to share video via email, Facebook™, YouTube™, Twitter™ and even on a TV.

Cisco is also equipping the team of 20 NHL.com reporters with their own NHL logo Flip video camera to use as they travel to NHL games around the U.S. and Canada. With their official NHL Flips, the on-the-scene reporters will be able to greatly enhance their coverage by capturing video footage to post to the NHL.com web site.

 
 
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In spite of setbacks, Juan Pablo Montoya says he saw improvement in 2010

After a breakout year in 2009 that saw him qualify for the Chase For The Sprint Cup and finish eighth in the standings, one might think Juan Pablo Montoya would look back on 2010 as the year he'd just as soon forget. Pegged in the preseason as a likely Chase contender, Montoya instead suffered an astounding eight DNFs, finished 17th in the points and was left on the outside when the Chase field was set.
 
 
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Robby Gordon Motorsports sues Extenze parent company for $690,000

Robby Gordon wants Extenze parent company Biotab Nutraceuticals to pay $690,000 he claims it owes him, a portion of which includes payment for two races in which he replaced Kevin Conway in the No. 7 car late in the 2010 season. ... Gordon claims that Biotab owner Robert Winter approved the driver change for NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races at Charlotte and Martinsville, a move that was made in an attempt to keep the No. 7 entry in the top 35 in car owner points.
 
 
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Eric McClure to drive for TriStar Motorsports in 2011

Eric McClure will drive for TriStar Motorsports in 2011 and he will bring the Hefty sponsorship to the Nationwide Series team. Hefty has sponsored McClure the last five years with stops at Johnny Davis Motorsports, Front Row Motorsports and Team Rensi Motorsports.
 
 
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Kolles confirms talks with Valsecchi

Hispania Team Principal Colin Kolles has revealed that Spanish team is in talks with Davide Valsecchi, although he added that the Italian is just one of a number of drivers' that is in the frame for the 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship.
 
 
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Renault reveal R30 with new 2011 Lotus livery | 2011 F1 season


Renault 2011 Lotus livery

Renault 2011 Lotus livery

Renault have revealed the first genuine photographs of their current R30 F1 car in the new 2011 Lotus livery.

It has a black-and-gold design similar to that which Tony Fernandes's Lotus Racing team also intends to use in 2011, harking back to the John Player Special Lotuses of the 1970s and 1980s.

Renault announced this morning it will be sponsored by Lotus Cars in 2011, who have also invested in the team.

Lotus Racing and Lotus Cars are currently in dispute over the rights to the use the name "Lotus".

Renault 2011 Lotus livery

Renault 2011 Lotus livery

Lotus naming rights row

  • Renault reveal R30 with new 2011 Lotus livery
     
     
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    Luca Badoer leaves Ferrari after 13 years | 2010 F1 season


    Luca Badoer, Ferrari, Bologna Motor Show, 2010

    Luca Badoer, Ferrari, Bologna Motor Show, 2010

    Luca Badoer has made his final public appearance as a Ferrari driver after 13 years with the team.

    The long-serving test driver helped develop the cars which won six consecutive constructors' championship from 1999 to 2004, Michael Schumacher's five drivers' titles and other wins for the team and its drivers.

    The Italian made two race appearances for Ferrari last year after Felipe Massa was injured in Hungary, but was dropped following some poor performances.

    He made his F1 debut for BMS Scuderia Italia in 1993 but the team folded before the end of the season. He returned to racing with Minardi in 1995, then Forti the year after.

    Badoer joined Ferrari as a test driver in 1998. The following year he made another F1 comeback for Minardi.

    He holds the unfortunate record of starting the most races without scoring a point – 51. He came closest in the 1999 European Grand Prix at the Nürburgring, when he famously burst into tears after his Minardi failed while he was running fourth.

    That was his final year in F1 before his 2009 return almost a decade later. Badoer was back at the wheel of a 2009-spec F60 for his final appearance for the team.

     
     
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    Monday, December 6, 2010

    The Monday Night Masterpiece


    Over the course of this blog's lifespan, there has been many big Monday Night Football games.

    I'm going to declare tonight's Jets-Patriots tilt in New England the biggest of them all.

    My boy, Mark Sanchez has the ability to make the Jets the top team in football tonight with a win. Rex Ryan says that the Jets are Super Bowl contenders already because of Sanchez. Tonight is a chance for Sanchez to take the next step. Believe me, all the talk about his low completion percentage won't matter as long as he gets a win tonight. Tonight's game is going to go a a long ways in defining these two teams during this 2010 season. This is how the legend will be written about these two.

    It's cold, it's December, it's rivalry on Monday Night Football. Winner gets to be #1 seed in the AFC most likely. It's Brady vs. Sanchez. It's Ryan vs. Belichick. This is what it's all about. I can't wait to get off work and get the Green jersey on at home and settle in front of my flat-screen.

     
     
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    Rest In Peace, 'Dandy Don' Meredith


    The football world today mourns the passing of a terrific quarterback, a witty and wonderful broadcaster and a fine gentleman: "Dandy Don" Meredith died yesterday at the age of 72.

    Meredith was one of the greatest quarterbacks in Dallas Cowboys' history, and played many times against the Browns in the last of Cleveland's glory years of the 1960s, then went on to form the folksy, down-home part of the Monday Night Football crew. His renditions of "Turn Out The Lights, the Party's Over" once a game was out of hand or decided were a treat to listen to, and he helped to broadcast many a Browns' game in those early MNF years, including the first-ever Monday night game, won by the Browns over the Jets.

    Rest in peace, Dandy Don. Although the lights have been turned out for you...may your party never end.

     
     
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    Importance of end-game losing streak to the Lakers Kobe Bryant


    Anything in the Lakers finally returned home after giving vent to anger, which eventually will destroy the king from 110 to 83.

    The Lakers in this game, a total of six players score in double figures, this result greatly increases the Lakers moral interior.

    After the return trip by road, and catch up with Friday's game, Bryant became the Lakers after the game appeared for the first time players dressed in the costumes: "This win today, we are very critics, and I must say that increases the confidence of the team now. "Kobe Bryant made the interview so early in the siege of journalists have lost their chance. Probably anxious to go home with the kids or something, Bryant met the media before the problems spread is not thrown to him, the hand wave so big, "So, thank you." He turned to leave the locker room.

    Gasol in the last two games after a poor performance before he finally found a home feel, the audience voted June 8 1916 points, the Spanish after the game Gelva suits standing in our own building, do "to win The game I am very happy, you know, after a four-game losing streak to reflect on their performance, and to improve, to win the next game. "room became local Kobe without Gasol a priority, not easily let it out. "I've been with team doctors before the game with the coach to discuss his legs, I think I have no problems, which doctors agree that I can play, and I think that the day before the rest of the physical recovery of large help. "

    Gasol, Bynum because the absence of significantly increased playing time this season, with Jackson after the game with the Pacers, said, "I think Paul tired." Today, when the final whistle after the Zen master spirits of the phrase "He looks good, her performance is in the paint as it was designed in accordance with our previous behavior, and tonight was very aggressive."

    Getting a win tonight, Jackson also took a deep breath, go on the defense team credit, "the defense very well tonight, especially in the first half. We lost the game to vote ball, players are fighting for is good. "

    After the run of four defeats, the Lakers became the punching bag king unfortunately, this Friday night, in the flotation of the tape Staples Center audience, the fans go home with the joy of spending in order weekend with his family.

     
     
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