I wanted to give you guys an update about the changes to our staff blogs as well as our newspaper Web site in general.
Take a quick tour of the new http://www.statesville.com/, if you haven't already. Pretty sweet, huh?
The new site allows us to write our blog posts and link them directly on the Web site. You can still post comments and such after signing up as a user on the Web site. In fact, you will be able to post comments on ALL stories.
So come on over and check it out, I am in the process of posting an entry about West Iredell's football team. Here's a direct link: http://www2.statesville.com/content/list/sports/columnists/norman/
Monday, August 25, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Burning questions
With the first day of football practice inching closer -- three days, for those keeping count -- now is probably a good time to examine some of the biggest questions facing Iredell County teams entering the season.
Lake Norman
Who will take charge of the offense?
With what seems to be an improved, slightly bigger offensive line, the Wildcats need a few more athletes. Do-everything Tyler McRorie is gone, as is long-time quarterback Zach Connell. McRorie was an all-county wide receiver who could catch, run the jet sweep and throw -- he played QB at times. Lake Norman may rely a bit more on Eric Manser, a solid running back who hardly ever gets negative yardage. Jaquez Vanderburg can really run and should see an increased role.
Mooresville
Is this the year?
Expectations are always sky-high at Mooresville, and this season will be no different. After a few good-not-great years, the Blue Devils return a ton of players and a special senior class. The offense will miss the big-play threat of Jamel Allison and the underrated Tequilis Knox, but Jjshaun Pinkston should run the show. The Devils have enough on defense, despite losing some really good linebackers, to improve on last year's performance. After a loss in the first round of the playoffs to a tough T.C. Roberson team, Mooresville's fans (and players) are hoping for a deep playoff run.
North Iredell
How will the Raiders adjust to a new scheme?
North Iredell has run through a variety of schemes in recent years. Former coach Lee Linville brought in an I-Formation based offense three years ago. That slowly evolved into a shotgun, spread offense over two years and was whittled back down to the I-Form late last season. New coach Shannon Ashley will implement an option-based attack, which should be led by bulked up fullback Chris Knox. Both the offense and defense return some pieces, but moving the ball on the ground will determine whether or not North has a shot at the playoffs.
South Iredell
Who will lead the offense?
It's been a while since the Vikings didn't have Anthony Thwaites' blazing speed at their disposal. With offensive star Thwaites off to Lenoir-Rhyne College, South needs to find somebody to run the ball -- and a quarterback to get the ball to the outside. T.C. Rollings really stepped in and did a nice job last season after being converted from wide receiver to quarterback. I think everyone knows Rollings was a senior last year. But not everyone knows his backup, Bert Travis, was also a senior, and that's equally important. South will look at a pair of sophomores to take over at quarterback. Markevis Dalton and Tevin Ikard will be the best pair of wide receivers in the county, and Ikard may also take some carries as a running back.
Statesville
What's next?
Pretty simple here. The Greyhounds, in the midst of a big rebuilding project, surprised most of the county and finished 9-4 last season, a mark that included a trip to the second round of the playoffs. Statesville returns plenty of guys, although there's no question some of the big-time leaders are gone -- like William Marion, Trevor Greer, Adrian Sloan, Greg Samuels and Jarris Knox. I think how the Greyhounds handle these increased expectations will dictate how successful their season is.
West Iredell
How can the Warriors replace 25 seniors?
Losing 25 seniors is a blow to any program, especially when they include guys like Bobby Morrison, Patrick Moss and Jared Thompson. Head coach Mark Weycker said last year's group was the best senior class in school history, but there's still some talent left in the cupboard. No, Morrison won't be there to bail the Warriors out like he did so many times last year, but he might not have to. Wake Forest signee Quan Rucker will move from receiver to quarterback, which I think is a great move. With the best player on the team touching the ball every play, the Warriors still have playoff hopes.
Lake Norman
Who will take charge of the offense?
With what seems to be an improved, slightly bigger offensive line, the Wildcats need a few more athletes. Do-everything Tyler McRorie is gone, as is long-time quarterback Zach Connell. McRorie was an all-county wide receiver who could catch, run the jet sweep and throw -- he played QB at times. Lake Norman may rely a bit more on Eric Manser, a solid running back who hardly ever gets negative yardage. Jaquez Vanderburg can really run and should see an increased role.
Mooresville
Is this the year?
Expectations are always sky-high at Mooresville, and this season will be no different. After a few good-not-great years, the Blue Devils return a ton of players and a special senior class. The offense will miss the big-play threat of Jamel Allison and the underrated Tequilis Knox, but Jjshaun Pinkston should run the show. The Devils have enough on defense, despite losing some really good linebackers, to improve on last year's performance. After a loss in the first round of the playoffs to a tough T.C. Roberson team, Mooresville's fans (and players) are hoping for a deep playoff run.
North Iredell
How will the Raiders adjust to a new scheme?
North Iredell has run through a variety of schemes in recent years. Former coach Lee Linville brought in an I-Formation based offense three years ago. That slowly evolved into a shotgun, spread offense over two years and was whittled back down to the I-Form late last season. New coach Shannon Ashley will implement an option-based attack, which should be led by bulked up fullback Chris Knox. Both the offense and defense return some pieces, but moving the ball on the ground will determine whether or not North has a shot at the playoffs.
South Iredell
Who will lead the offense?
It's been a while since the Vikings didn't have Anthony Thwaites' blazing speed at their disposal. With offensive star Thwaites off to Lenoir-Rhyne College, South needs to find somebody to run the ball -- and a quarterback to get the ball to the outside. T.C. Rollings really stepped in and did a nice job last season after being converted from wide receiver to quarterback. I think everyone knows Rollings was a senior last year. But not everyone knows his backup, Bert Travis, was also a senior, and that's equally important. South will look at a pair of sophomores to take over at quarterback. Markevis Dalton and Tevin Ikard will be the best pair of wide receivers in the county, and Ikard may also take some carries as a running back.
Statesville
What's next?
Pretty simple here. The Greyhounds, in the midst of a big rebuilding project, surprised most of the county and finished 9-4 last season, a mark that included a trip to the second round of the playoffs. Statesville returns plenty of guys, although there's no question some of the big-time leaders are gone -- like William Marion, Trevor Greer, Adrian Sloan, Greg Samuels and Jarris Knox. I think how the Greyhounds handle these increased expectations will dictate how successful their season is.
West Iredell
How can the Warriors replace 25 seniors?
Losing 25 seniors is a blow to any program, especially when they include guys like Bobby Morrison, Patrick Moss and Jared Thompson. Head coach Mark Weycker said last year's group was the best senior class in school history, but there's still some talent left in the cupboard. No, Morrison won't be there to bail the Warriors out like he did so many times last year, but he might not have to. Wake Forest signee Quan Rucker will move from receiver to quarterback, which I think is a great move. With the best player on the team touching the ball every play, the Warriors still have playoff hopes.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Show me the money (and world)
I was stunned when I read Atlanta Hawks forward Josh Childress, a free agent who played for the Atlanta Hawks, abruptly signed a deal to play professional hoops in Greece.
The more I really analyze this situation leads me to believe that Childress made a fantastic choice (I'm sure he finds that very comforting).
Let's start with the money. I actually think the benefits from this aren't really connected with the extra dough he'll make, but it's probably the most-discussed aspect.
Because he was a restricted free agent, the Hawks could only pay him a certain amount of dollars. On the international stage, those NBA bylaws don't apply. So when Olympiacos offered him a three-year deal worth $21 million -- after taxes -- well, that's a pretty sweet gig.
But there's so much more to this. Childress has a chance to do what so many dream about -- travel the world. I mean, he gets to live in Greece, one of the nicest, most historic places in the world. Sure beats smoggy Hot-lanta, right?
He'll get to experience other cultures, learn languages and compete in front of an entirely different fan base. The marketing and glitz of the NBA sometimes -- oftentimes, really -- gets pretty annoying. The hard-nosed European game, perhaps with better-informed fans, could be a great change of pace.
Hey, this is a tough situation for Atlanta to be in. But the pros clearly outweigh the cons here.
There are a couple of things to keep an eye on in the future. It's pretty clear that a top-flight superstar, like LeBron or Kobe, would never bolt for Europe. They just make way too much money, especially through Nike and other sponsorships. But don't be surprised if European teams start getting creative and attempt to lure over several middle-tier players. And don't be surprised if some of Europe's top pro prospects stay overseas rather than declare for the NBA draft.
The more I really analyze this situation leads me to believe that Childress made a fantastic choice (I'm sure he finds that very comforting).
Let's start with the money. I actually think the benefits from this aren't really connected with the extra dough he'll make, but it's probably the most-discussed aspect.
Because he was a restricted free agent, the Hawks could only pay him a certain amount of dollars. On the international stage, those NBA bylaws don't apply. So when Olympiacos offered him a three-year deal worth $21 million -- after taxes -- well, that's a pretty sweet gig.
But there's so much more to this. Childress has a chance to do what so many dream about -- travel the world. I mean, he gets to live in Greece, one of the nicest, most historic places in the world. Sure beats smoggy Hot-lanta, right?
He'll get to experience other cultures, learn languages and compete in front of an entirely different fan base. The marketing and glitz of the NBA sometimes -- oftentimes, really -- gets pretty annoying. The hard-nosed European game, perhaps with better-informed fans, could be a great change of pace.
Hey, this is a tough situation for Atlanta to be in. But the pros clearly outweigh the cons here.
There are a couple of things to keep an eye on in the future. It's pretty clear that a top-flight superstar, like LeBron or Kobe, would never bolt for Europe. They just make way too much money, especially through Nike and other sponsorships. But don't be surprised if European teams start getting creative and attempt to lure over several middle-tier players. And don't be surprised if some of Europe's top pro prospects stay overseas rather than declare for the NBA draft.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
The times have changed
I really, really want to rip the cyclists in the Tour de France. As I'm sure most of you know -- those who follow the Tour at least, and I suspect that number is growing smaller every day -- Riccardo Ricco failed a drug test a few weeks ago. Ricco had already won two stages and was in the top-10 overall.
This is the third year the Tour has had a major rider fail a drug test mid-race. This just adds to the absolutely crippling perception of the Tour, particularly the past few years. The number of people I personally know who follow it has dropped from somewhere in the 20's to 1. Some of that also has to do with Lance Armstrong leaving the sport, and I admit that Armstrong was the only reason I followed the Tour in recent years. But there is also a growing disgust with the cyclists and the event itself simply because of the doping, and in some cases the accusations of doping.
But how different is cycling from other sports nowadays? The perception of sports and athletes is always tied to the current situations in society.
That's why when Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa went on a home-run binge in 1998, no one questioned how quickly the duo bulked up, and locker room chatter of performance-enhancing drugs was never investigated by either the media or Major League Baseball. It was because, after a strike that canceled a World Series, baseball desperately needed that duo.
In the 2002 Super Bowl, just months after 9/11, everybody but the city of St. Louis cheered for the New England Patriots. It was the fact that they were an unheralded team, without any superstars, playing tough, hard-nosed football. Throw in the facts that they were a huge underdog, were introduced as a team instead of by individual names (the first time that was ever done at a Super Bowl -- it was a huge deal at the time) and simply because the team mascot was the "Patriots," America pulled for them to win. They did, and it was very healing to huge groups of people.
Yes, cycling has a drug problem. So does baseball. So does football. So does basketball. So does track & field. Certain athletes will always look for ways to cheat the system, to stay ahead of the testing and gain an edge.
And this mirrors other issues in our society: the incredible addictions we form, the incessent competitive edge, the need to cheat the system.
There's one more point I want to make, and that is the public perception of an athlete is changing, and will continuously change.
I actually read a blog about this yesterday that made a few great points. Joe Posnanski, a columnist for the Kansas City Star, wrote a great blog about Stan Musial. (And by the way, I think his blog might be the best on the Internet. I'd encourage all sports fans, especially baseball guys, to check it out).
One of his most salient points in his Musial blog was that, in the "good old days," people looked up to players like Stan Musial. Players who signed autographs, played through pain, stayed out of trouble and generally wanted to be a role model were regarded as heroes.
Today, the typical hero is Josh Hamilton -- a supremely talented athlete who somehow loses his way, fights off his demons (in this case major drug addictions) and makes a spectacular, engaging comeback.
Everybody has their own demons they fight off, their own set of problems and their own ways of fixing it. Rather than looking up to these "perfect" athletes like in the past, I think people want to relate to athletes now. And guys like Hamilton, or guys who have stories like Hamilton, are the new-breed of heroes.
And I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing.
This is the third year the Tour has had a major rider fail a drug test mid-race. This just adds to the absolutely crippling perception of the Tour, particularly the past few years. The number of people I personally know who follow it has dropped from somewhere in the 20's to 1. Some of that also has to do with Lance Armstrong leaving the sport, and I admit that Armstrong was the only reason I followed the Tour in recent years. But there is also a growing disgust with the cyclists and the event itself simply because of the doping, and in some cases the accusations of doping.
But how different is cycling from other sports nowadays? The perception of sports and athletes is always tied to the current situations in society.
That's why when Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa went on a home-run binge in 1998, no one questioned how quickly the duo bulked up, and locker room chatter of performance-enhancing drugs was never investigated by either the media or Major League Baseball. It was because, after a strike that canceled a World Series, baseball desperately needed that duo.
In the 2002 Super Bowl, just months after 9/11, everybody but the city of St. Louis cheered for the New England Patriots. It was the fact that they were an unheralded team, without any superstars, playing tough, hard-nosed football. Throw in the facts that they were a huge underdog, were introduced as a team instead of by individual names (the first time that was ever done at a Super Bowl -- it was a huge deal at the time) and simply because the team mascot was the "Patriots," America pulled for them to win. They did, and it was very healing to huge groups of people.
Yes, cycling has a drug problem. So does baseball. So does football. So does basketball. So does track & field. Certain athletes will always look for ways to cheat the system, to stay ahead of the testing and gain an edge.
And this mirrors other issues in our society: the incredible addictions we form, the incessent competitive edge, the need to cheat the system.
There's one more point I want to make, and that is the public perception of an athlete is changing, and will continuously change.
I actually read a blog about this yesterday that made a few great points. Joe Posnanski, a columnist for the Kansas City Star, wrote a great blog about Stan Musial. (And by the way, I think his blog might be the best on the Internet. I'd encourage all sports fans, especially baseball guys, to check it out).
One of his most salient points in his Musial blog was that, in the "good old days," people looked up to players like Stan Musial. Players who signed autographs, played through pain, stayed out of trouble and generally wanted to be a role model were regarded as heroes.
Today, the typical hero is Josh Hamilton -- a supremely talented athlete who somehow loses his way, fights off his demons (in this case major drug addictions) and makes a spectacular, engaging comeback.
Everybody has their own demons they fight off, their own set of problems and their own ways of fixing it. Rather than looking up to these "perfect" athletes like in the past, I think people want to relate to athletes now. And guys like Hamilton, or guys who have stories like Hamilton, are the new-breed of heroes.
And I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Settle the debate
Here is one of the greatest questions of our generation: Who's ceremonial first pitch was the worst, Mariah Carey or Mark Mallory?
You be the judge.
Here is Carey's toss, and here is a link for Mallory, who is actually Cincinnati's mayor.
It has to be the mayor, right? I mean talk about losing votes. Plus, the look on Eric Davis' face at about the 0:19 mark is classic.
You be the judge.
Here is Carey's toss, and here is a link for Mallory, who is actually Cincinnati's mayor.
It has to be the mayor, right? I mean talk about losing votes. Plus, the look on Eric Davis' face at about the 0:19 mark is classic.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Second-half forecast
We ran an Associated Press story a few days ago that was about baseball's crazy first half. That's definitely true.
From teams coming out of nowhere — hello, Tampa Bay Rays — to Ken Griffey Jr. and Manny Ramirez hitting milestone home runs, there's been a little something for everyone so far this year. Unless you're a Seattle fan.
The next few months of baseball should have some major story lines ahead. Here's my forecast:
The Boston Red Sox will win the AL East. I thought the Rays were one year away from being a really good team. They are in a place to contend for the division title within the next several years, but Boston's experience will be too much in 2008.
The Mets will continue their surge and win the NL East. The firing of Willie Randolph really seems to have been a good decision. Jerry Manuel will mix it up with anybody, including his own pitcher. The handling of Randolph was terrible, the overall decision was good. They'll pass the Phillies.
From teams coming out of nowhere — hello, Tampa Bay Rays — to Ken Griffey Jr. and Manny Ramirez hitting milestone home runs, there's been a little something for everyone so far this year. Unless you're a Seattle fan.
The next few months of baseball should have some major story lines ahead. Here's my forecast:
The Boston Red Sox will win the AL East. I thought the Rays were one year away from being a really good team. They are in a place to contend for the division title within the next several years, but Boston's experience will be too much in 2008.
The Mets will continue their surge and win the NL East. The firing of Willie Randolph really seems to have been a good decision. Jerry Manuel will mix it up with anybody, including his own pitcher. The handling of Randolph was terrible, the overall decision was good. They'll pass the Phillies.
Which big name will get traded first? With teams now dropping out of contention, a few of the big names being tossed around are A.J. Burnett, Adrian Beltre, Adam Dunn, Mark Teixeira and Matt Holliday. The least likely to move? I find it hard to believe that the Rockies would trade their absolute best player one year removed from the World Series.
The Cubs should hold on in the NL Central. I think the trade for Rich Harden will work out well — Sean Gallagher is a good prospect, but that's really the only significant piece the Cubs gave up.
What's going on in the NL West? Several pundits believed this years San Francisco Giants teams might be one of the worst in recent memory. Their roster isn't good — but they are in third in the division, seven games behind Arizona. The division-leading Diamondbacks are 47-48 and should hold off the Dodgers.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
My Olympic team
There's an art to picking the perfect basketball team to represent your country. I think Jerry Colangelo and Mike Krzyzewski almost got it right. Almost.
Here's the team they selected: Carmelo Anthony, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, LeBron James, Jason Kidd, Chris Paul, Tayshaun Prince, Michael Redd, Dwyane Wade and Deron Williams.
Certainly not a bad team, but not the one I would have chosen.
Based on the players available, here is how I would pick Team USA. In order:
1. Chris Paul, G
Easily the best point guard in the NBA. Probably in the world.
2. Kobe Bryant, G
Can score from anywhere on the court and has become a better teammate.
3. LeBron James, F
A must-have for obvious reasons.
4. Deron Williams, G
Point-guard play in the Olympics is incredibly important.
5. Dwight Howard, C
Will cause mismatches against every opponent he faces.
6. Michael Redd, G
His sole purpose is to can open 3-pointers from the shorter line. An invaluable asset.
7. Tyson Chandler, F/C
Not on the team, but his rebounding and toughness may be sorely needed.
8. Carlos Boozer, F
Someone who will crash the boards and bang down low.
9. Tayshaun Prince, F
Needed for mismatches and to play defense.
10. Allen Iverson, G
Also not on the team, but he was the one guy who really stood out when no NBA players even wanted to play for the national team. Could play point or shooting guard and gets up for the international games maybe more than anybody else on the team.
11. Shane Battier, F
The ultimate "glue" guy. Unselfish player and well-respected throughout the league. Coach K would know the perfect way to use him.
12. Chris Bosh, F
A skilled forward could help in all areas.
I didn't pick Jason Kidd (too old and slow), Dwyane Wade (too injured) and Carmelo Anthony (too selfish). I also did not consider those who hinted they would not like to be selected: Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Chauncey Billups and Amare Stoudamire.
My "almost made it but not quite" was the underrated Marcus Camby.
Here's the team they selected: Carmelo Anthony, Carlos Boozer, Chris Bosh, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, LeBron James, Jason Kidd, Chris Paul, Tayshaun Prince, Michael Redd, Dwyane Wade and Deron Williams.
Certainly not a bad team, but not the one I would have chosen.
Based on the players available, here is how I would pick Team USA. In order:
1. Chris Paul, G
Easily the best point guard in the NBA. Probably in the world.
2. Kobe Bryant, G
Can score from anywhere on the court and has become a better teammate.
3. LeBron James, F
A must-have for obvious reasons.
4. Deron Williams, G
Point-guard play in the Olympics is incredibly important.
5. Dwight Howard, C
Will cause mismatches against every opponent he faces.
6. Michael Redd, G
His sole purpose is to can open 3-pointers from the shorter line. An invaluable asset.
7. Tyson Chandler, F/C
Not on the team, but his rebounding and toughness may be sorely needed.
8. Carlos Boozer, F
Someone who will crash the boards and bang down low.
9. Tayshaun Prince, F
Needed for mismatches and to play defense.
10. Allen Iverson, G
Also not on the team, but he was the one guy who really stood out when no NBA players even wanted to play for the national team. Could play point or shooting guard and gets up for the international games maybe more than anybody else on the team.
11. Shane Battier, F
The ultimate "glue" guy. Unselfish player and well-respected throughout the league. Coach K would know the perfect way to use him.
12. Chris Bosh, F
A skilled forward could help in all areas.
I didn't pick Jason Kidd (too old and slow), Dwyane Wade (too injured) and Carmelo Anthony (too selfish). I also did not consider those who hinted they would not like to be selected: Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce, Chauncey Billups and Amare Stoudamire.
My "almost made it but not quite" was the underrated Marcus Camby.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Bobcats face critical decision
The Charlotte Bobcats' brief first round draft history isn't exactly a sterling example of how to best use your picks.
With Emeka Okafor looking for big-time, long-term deal and new coach Larry Brown seeking an immediate turnaround, Thursday's first-round draft choice is a monster for the Bobcats.
Okafor's selection at No. 2 overall is probably the franchise's best move in the first round, although that won't amount to much if he bolts to another city or asks for a trade after turning down a fair offer from Charlotte last season.
I also like last year's move, trading Brandan Wright to Golden State for Jason Richardson. Richardson has really evolved as a player since he entered the league and was known primarily for his athletic ability.
The other two years have produced questionable or downright bad picks. Getting the No. 5 spot in the 2005 NBA draft was an absolute disaster for Charlotte and completely altered the direction of the franchise. Wanting a point guard, Charlotte was forced to reach for Raymond Felton after watching Deron Williams and Chris Paul go No. 3 and No. 4, respectively. Williams has been a stud in Utah, and you can argue Paul deserved the NBA MVP this season. Felton hasn't been terrible, but it's tough playing in the shadows of those two players.
Adam Morrison at No. 3 overall hasn't worked out either. Morrison had an up-and-down rookie season and missed all of last year with an injury. Several scouts - and Charlotte fans - thought the Bobcats should have taken Brandon Roy. The selection of Sean May has also been a disappointment, namely due to May's injury history and refusal to get himself into serious NBA playing shape.
With that said, where should Charlotte turn this year?
There are a few options seriously worth considering:
Brook Lopez, C, Stanford
This has become the trendy pick in nearly every NBA mock draft. At 7-feet, Lopez would allow Okafor to slide into the power forward role full time, where he is more productive. Lopez may be gone but is probably the favorite if still available.
Russell Westbrook, G, UCLA
Westbrook would be a really good fit in Charlotte. He's one of the best on-the-ball defenders in the draft and could play sort of a combo, off-guard type role, spelling Felton at point and also playing some 2-guard.
D.J. Augustin, G, Texas
This would probably be a bit of a reach, but Augustin stood out big time at Texas and is already well-developed as a point guard.
Others: Most people think UCLA forward Kevin Love is going in the top-5, maybe the top-3. He reportedly canceled workouts with teams outside the top 5 ... Danilo Gallinari is a fluid Italian player who could help right away ... West Virginia's Joe Alexander would also be a great fit and bring some real toughness, but he's been shooting up the boards recently and may be gone by the time Charlotte picks.
With Emeka Okafor looking for big-time, long-term deal and new coach Larry Brown seeking an immediate turnaround, Thursday's first-round draft choice is a monster for the Bobcats.
Okafor's selection at No. 2 overall is probably the franchise's best move in the first round, although that won't amount to much if he bolts to another city or asks for a trade after turning down a fair offer from Charlotte last season.
I also like last year's move, trading Brandan Wright to Golden State for Jason Richardson. Richardson has really evolved as a player since he entered the league and was known primarily for his athletic ability.
The other two years have produced questionable or downright bad picks. Getting the No. 5 spot in the 2005 NBA draft was an absolute disaster for Charlotte and completely altered the direction of the franchise. Wanting a point guard, Charlotte was forced to reach for Raymond Felton after watching Deron Williams and Chris Paul go No. 3 and No. 4, respectively. Williams has been a stud in Utah, and you can argue Paul deserved the NBA MVP this season. Felton hasn't been terrible, but it's tough playing in the shadows of those two players.
Adam Morrison at No. 3 overall hasn't worked out either. Morrison had an up-and-down rookie season and missed all of last year with an injury. Several scouts - and Charlotte fans - thought the Bobcats should have taken Brandon Roy. The selection of Sean May has also been a disappointment, namely due to May's injury history and refusal to get himself into serious NBA playing shape.
With that said, where should Charlotte turn this year?
There are a few options seriously worth considering:
Brook Lopez, C, Stanford
This has become the trendy pick in nearly every NBA mock draft. At 7-feet, Lopez would allow Okafor to slide into the power forward role full time, where he is more productive. Lopez may be gone but is probably the favorite if still available.
Russell Westbrook, G, UCLA
Westbrook would be a really good fit in Charlotte. He's one of the best on-the-ball defenders in the draft and could play sort of a combo, off-guard type role, spelling Felton at point and also playing some 2-guard.
D.J. Augustin, G, Texas
This would probably be a bit of a reach, but Augustin stood out big time at Texas and is already well-developed as a point guard.
Others: Most people think UCLA forward Kevin Love is going in the top-5, maybe the top-3. He reportedly canceled workouts with teams outside the top 5 ... Danilo Gallinari is a fluid Italian player who could help right away ... West Virginia's Joe Alexander would also be a great fit and bring some real toughness, but he's been shooting up the boards recently and may be gone by the time Charlotte picks.
Monday, June 16, 2008
In the soccer spirit
I'm sure I've mentioned this before, but I never played soccer growing up. I was strictly a basketball-baseball-backyard football child.
It's weird because youth soccer was really starting to pick up steam when I was a young'un, but I never played in my life until gym class in high school. And I was really bad. I have trouble walking upright without stumbling, so adding a ball into the mix is just a disaster in dexterity.
With that said, I've been on a huge soccer kick recently. I've watched a lot of the UEFA games and enjoyed them all. International soccer is always fun to watch, and I'm a sucker for any kind of tournament. I'd probably watch an international badminton tournament if one existed (and it might, I don't know).
In addition to that thought, I'd like to add that we have some really, really good soccer players in the area. The N.C. Soccer Coaches Association recently released its all-region teams, and Iredell County had 16 total players from all six county schools chosen.
That's pretty remarkable. And from my point of view, it made selecting the 11-member R&L All County team incredibly difficult.
Here's a list of our All-Region players, with All-County selections italicized, All-State members bold and our Player of the Year in all caps (you follow?).
Taylor Branton, West Iredell
Amanda Comer, South Iredell
Brittney Dailey, Mooresville
Alicia Danenhower, Mooresville
Rachel Gibson, South Iredell
Tara Johnson, Lake Norman
Meghan Kos, Lake Norman
Ashley Lail, South Iredell
Caroline Moffett, Lake Norman
Katie Register, Statesville
Claudia Solis, South Iredell
COURTNEY SMITH, Mooresville
Sarah Tang, Lake Norman
Lauren Vawter, Lake Norman
Sarah Ann Waugh, Statesville
Tiffany Wilson, Mooresville
It's weird because youth soccer was really starting to pick up steam when I was a young'un, but I never played in my life until gym class in high school. And I was really bad. I have trouble walking upright without stumbling, so adding a ball into the mix is just a disaster in dexterity.
With that said, I've been on a huge soccer kick recently. I've watched a lot of the UEFA games and enjoyed them all. International soccer is always fun to watch, and I'm a sucker for any kind of tournament. I'd probably watch an international badminton tournament if one existed (and it might, I don't know).
In addition to that thought, I'd like to add that we have some really, really good soccer players in the area. The N.C. Soccer Coaches Association recently released its all-region teams, and Iredell County had 16 total players from all six county schools chosen.
That's pretty remarkable. And from my point of view, it made selecting the 11-member R&L All County team incredibly difficult.
Here's a list of our All-Region players, with All-County selections italicized, All-State members bold and our Player of the Year in all caps (you follow?).
Taylor Branton, West Iredell
Amanda Comer, South Iredell
Brittney Dailey, Mooresville
Alicia Danenhower, Mooresville
Rachel Gibson, South Iredell
Tara Johnson, Lake Norman
Meghan Kos, Lake Norman
Ashley Lail, South Iredell
Caroline Moffett, Lake Norman
Katie Register, Statesville
Claudia Solis, South Iredell
COURTNEY SMITH, Mooresville
Sarah Tang, Lake Norman
Lauren Vawter, Lake Norman
Sarah Ann Waugh, Statesville
Tiffany Wilson, Mooresville
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Vikings will improve next year
If I were a betting man — and seeing as how I'm leaving for Vegas in about a week, I suppose I am — I'd expect a solid showing from South Iredell's "money sports" next season.
There's always plenty of turnover in the high school coaching ranks, but it has to be rare for a school to break in a brand new football, boys basketball, girls basketball and baseball coach in the same season.
Ed Masterton (football), Trey Ramsey (baseball), Brian Reese (boys hoops) and Gary W. Sherrill (girls hoops) were not only first-year coaches at South, it was their first-ever head coaching job in their respective sports.
It's going to take time for the athletes to get adjusted and, maybe even more so, it takes time for the coaches to get completely settled and comfortable with what they want to do in the program.
Masterton did a respectable job this year, leading a team that battled injuries all season back into the playoffs.
The other programs struggled, sometimes mightily. The boys basketball team finished with four wins, the girls basketball team won twice and the baseball squad had five victories.
All of those win totals should increase next season, and I wouldn't be surprised to see all four of those squads advance to the state playoffs.
There's always plenty of turnover in the high school coaching ranks, but it has to be rare for a school to break in a brand new football, boys basketball, girls basketball and baseball coach in the same season.
Ed Masterton (football), Trey Ramsey (baseball), Brian Reese (boys hoops) and Gary W. Sherrill (girls hoops) were not only first-year coaches at South, it was their first-ever head coaching job in their respective sports.
It's going to take time for the athletes to get adjusted and, maybe even more so, it takes time for the coaches to get completely settled and comfortable with what they want to do in the program.
Masterton did a respectable job this year, leading a team that battled injuries all season back into the playoffs.
The other programs struggled, sometimes mightily. The boys basketball team finished with four wins, the girls basketball team won twice and the baseball squad had five victories.
All of those win totals should increase next season, and I wouldn't be surprised to see all four of those squads advance to the state playoffs.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Spring sports season ends
Not a lot of updates recently as several county schools - in several different sports - kept advancing in the playoffs, leaving us pretty busy. But now that Mooresville baseball, Lake Norman tennis and Lake Norman soccer have been bounced from the playoffs, things have slowed. Here's a few observations on some of the area sports.
Mooresville baseball
In case you didn't catch this story, the Blue Devils were bounced from the 3A playoffs in the most heartbreaking of ways. Leading East Rowan, winners of 21 straight entering the game, by four runs entering the final frame, the Mustangs bolted out of the gate - my one obvious horse reference - and scored five times without registering an out.
It's tough to see any team end its season that way, but this was especially true considering how perfect Mooresville had played up to that point. Senior pitcher Aubrey Meadows, on the mound despite a tired arm, danced his way around an incredibly dangerous lineup for six weeks. Meadows was perfect through three innings and allowed six base runners the next three innings.
Matt Markofski again hit a big home run, and Dylan West's three-run bomb in the sixth inning appeared like it would seal the victory.
I think it's also important to note that Mooresville skipper Jeff Burchett coached a great game. There was one brilliant call he made that I never would have considered.
It was the fourth inning, the score 0-0 and East had a runner on second with two outs. A very fast runner. Clean-up batter Corbin Shive forced a 3-1 count. Burchett called for an intentional walk and the next batter grounded out on the first pitch. Just a great thinking-man's decision. On a 3-1 count, you have to throw a strike. Typically, it's a fastball. Rather than pitching a fastball for strike to an clean-up batter waiting to launch it out of the park , Mooresville took its chances with the next guy.
I also don't buy the notion Burchett left Meadows in too long. Meadows is the ace, senior leader and was a big reason why the Blue Devils even advanced that far in the playoffs. He wanted the ball, and he wanted to finish the seventh inning. You leave him in.
Mooresville has some key seniors to replace, namely Meadows, West, Markofski and Chris Beaver. But the Blue Devils have a lot of underclassmen who contributed on varsity this year along with the best JV program in the North Piedmont 3A. They could be back in the regional semifinals next season.
Lake Norman soccer
I'll admit that, before the 3A soccer playoffs started, I wasn't a believer in Lake Norman. In the two games I covered this year, I came away with the impression that this was a talented team, but not an elite one.
Wrong.
The Wildcats advanced to the regional finals - essentially the Final Four of the 3A soccer bracket - before losing 2-1 to T.C. Roberson, the No. 1 ranked team in the country.
I stand corrected.
Mooresville track
I think Mooresville's streak of winning state titles in the running sports will stretch to five next year. The Blue Devils won a state title in outdoor track (spring, 2007), cross country (fall, 2007), indoor track (winter, 2008) and outdoor track (spring, 2008).
But after a potential cross country title, which would be three in a row, I'm not sure. Mooresville's program has such incredible depth, but it will be a challenge to replace the talent they have graduating, particularly in the field events.
Mooresville baseball
In case you didn't catch this story, the Blue Devils were bounced from the 3A playoffs in the most heartbreaking of ways. Leading East Rowan, winners of 21 straight entering the game, by four runs entering the final frame, the Mustangs bolted out of the gate - my one obvious horse reference - and scored five times without registering an out.
It's tough to see any team end its season that way, but this was especially true considering how perfect Mooresville had played up to that point. Senior pitcher Aubrey Meadows, on the mound despite a tired arm, danced his way around an incredibly dangerous lineup for six weeks. Meadows was perfect through three innings and allowed six base runners the next three innings.
Matt Markofski again hit a big home run, and Dylan West's three-run bomb in the sixth inning appeared like it would seal the victory.
I think it's also important to note that Mooresville skipper Jeff Burchett coached a great game. There was one brilliant call he made that I never would have considered.
It was the fourth inning, the score 0-0 and East had a runner on second with two outs. A very fast runner. Clean-up batter Corbin Shive forced a 3-1 count. Burchett called for an intentional walk and the next batter grounded out on the first pitch. Just a great thinking-man's decision. On a 3-1 count, you have to throw a strike. Typically, it's a fastball. Rather than pitching a fastball for strike to an clean-up batter waiting to launch it out of the park , Mooresville took its chances with the next guy.
I also don't buy the notion Burchett left Meadows in too long. Meadows is the ace, senior leader and was a big reason why the Blue Devils even advanced that far in the playoffs. He wanted the ball, and he wanted to finish the seventh inning. You leave him in.
Mooresville has some key seniors to replace, namely Meadows, West, Markofski and Chris Beaver. But the Blue Devils have a lot of underclassmen who contributed on varsity this year along with the best JV program in the North Piedmont 3A. They could be back in the regional semifinals next season.
Lake Norman soccer
I'll admit that, before the 3A soccer playoffs started, I wasn't a believer in Lake Norman. In the two games I covered this year, I came away with the impression that this was a talented team, but not an elite one.
Wrong.
The Wildcats advanced to the regional finals - essentially the Final Four of the 3A soccer bracket - before losing 2-1 to T.C. Roberson, the No. 1 ranked team in the country.
I stand corrected.
Mooresville track
I think Mooresville's streak of winning state titles in the running sports will stretch to five next year. The Blue Devils won a state title in outdoor track (spring, 2007), cross country (fall, 2007), indoor track (winter, 2008) and outdoor track (spring, 2008).
But after a potential cross country title, which would be three in a row, I'm not sure. Mooresville's program has such incredible depth, but it will be a challenge to replace the talent they have graduating, particularly in the field events.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Mooresville/West Rowan observations
In case you missed it, Mooresville won an absolutely insane game against West Rowan Tuesday in the state baseball playoffs.
It was probably the best game I've attended this season. And if not the best, the most exciting.
Due to a variety of issues - game starting late, game ending late, computer problems and early deadline - I didn't have very much time to write my game story for the paper.
Here are a few more thoughts on that game:
Mooresville senior Matt Markofski had an absolutely monster night. He finished 2-for-3 with a whopping 5 RBI. His biggest hit of the night was also the most controversial. Markofski ripped a 3-2 hanging curveball over the left field fence in the first inning for a three-run homer that gave Mooresville a 5-0 lead.
Or did he? The ball was sailing toward the foul pole, and the home plate umpire ruled it fair. West Rowan's coaching staff and players vehemently protested the call, but it stood. I had a terrible angle for that home run and couldn't tell you what I think happened. The home-plate umpire had a tough call to make, too. Markofski belted the ball, and it was more of a line-drive home run than a towering blast. The sun produced a heavy glare at home plate, and I'm not sure the umpire got a clean look.
The Blue Devils started Chris Beaver on the mound, which was no surprise. The senior was expected to get the start, and he was electric for two innings. Beaver tossed 26 pitches - 17 for strikes - in the first two innings and struck out four. He lost his control in the third inning, though. I'm not sure what effect, if any, this play had, but it warrants mentioning. Beaver gave chase to a little pop-up that landed in foul territory near the Mooresville dugout. With a small chance at catching it, Beaver - who is about 6-foot-4, 235 pounds - dove with full extension and bellyflopped to the ground. It was a great hustle play, but he started missing his location after that. Beaver worked his way through a 30-pitch third inning and gave up two runs, but was pulled after one batter in the fourth inning.
Also give credit to Aubrey Meadows, who pitched 2 2-3 innings of relief on three-days rest. Meadows had just one mistake pitch, and Carlos Bautista launched it for a three-run homer. But Meadows kept his focus and struck out five of the final 10 batters he faced and picked up the win.
It was probably the best game I've attended this season. And if not the best, the most exciting.
Due to a variety of issues - game starting late, game ending late, computer problems and early deadline - I didn't have very much time to write my game story for the paper.
Here are a few more thoughts on that game:
Mooresville senior Matt Markofski had an absolutely monster night. He finished 2-for-3 with a whopping 5 RBI. His biggest hit of the night was also the most controversial. Markofski ripped a 3-2 hanging curveball over the left field fence in the first inning for a three-run homer that gave Mooresville a 5-0 lead.
Or did he? The ball was sailing toward the foul pole, and the home plate umpire ruled it fair. West Rowan's coaching staff and players vehemently protested the call, but it stood. I had a terrible angle for that home run and couldn't tell you what I think happened. The home-plate umpire had a tough call to make, too. Markofski belted the ball, and it was more of a line-drive home run than a towering blast. The sun produced a heavy glare at home plate, and I'm not sure the umpire got a clean look.
The Blue Devils started Chris Beaver on the mound, which was no surprise. The senior was expected to get the start, and he was electric for two innings. Beaver tossed 26 pitches - 17 for strikes - in the first two innings and struck out four. He lost his control in the third inning, though. I'm not sure what effect, if any, this play had, but it warrants mentioning. Beaver gave chase to a little pop-up that landed in foul territory near the Mooresville dugout. With a small chance at catching it, Beaver - who is about 6-foot-4, 235 pounds - dove with full extension and bellyflopped to the ground. It was a great hustle play, but he started missing his location after that. Beaver worked his way through a 30-pitch third inning and gave up two runs, but was pulled after one batter in the fourth inning.
Also give credit to Aubrey Meadows, who pitched 2 2-3 innings of relief on three-days rest. Meadows had just one mistake pitch, and Carlos Bautista launched it for a three-run homer. But Meadows kept his focus and struck out five of the final 10 batters he faced and picked up the win.
Monday, May 12, 2008
NCHSAA must change playoff brackets
There are a lot of things the North Carolina High School Athletic Association does right. The NCHSAA is an efficient organization that, in part, provides newspapers with plenty of information on high school athletics throughout the year, so it's difficult to be too critical.
But one thing it has done terribly wrong lies in the pre-made 3A playoff brackets, specifically the matchups in the Western Regional for members of the North Piedmont 3A.
The NPC stretched from a seven-school league to one with 10 schools in the last two years. Brand-new institution Carson became a member in 2006-07, and East Rowan and South Rowan dropped from the 4A ranks into the NPC this past season.
As the new "half plus one" rule goes, the NPC received six automatic playoff berths for baseball, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, softball and volleyball (half of the 10-team league is five, plus one is six).
Of those six teams, only the top seed gets a home game in the first round. Every other seed goes on the road.
The playoff brackets for the aforementioned seven sports are the same across the board. Each team that qualifies for the playoffs simply fills in a slot on brackets released weeks in advance. For example, the Piedmont Triad Conference's No. 1 team always hosts the Mid-Piedmont's No. 4 team in the first round; the Big South Conference's No. 2 team always hosts the Mountain Athletic Conference's No. 3 team.
Of the nine conferences that boast 3A teams and therefore have a No. 2 seed in the Western Regional, a whopping seven host a first-round game. Of those seven, five host a No. 3 seed.
The only two leagues that must send a No. 2 seed on the road to play another No. 2 seed are the NPC and Southwestern Conference. The Southwestern Conference is typically regarded as one of the weakest across the board and has only four schools.
Of the six different teams seeded No. 3 from their respective conference, four get a slightly easier draw and play a No. 2 seed while two play a No. 1 seed. Again, the NPC's third-seeded team gets a top-seeded, tougher opponent on the road.
The NCHSAA adopted the "half plus one" rule to add more teams to the playoffs - which is more money that lines the state association's collective pockets - but isn't giving teams from the NPC a fair shake. Iredell County schools should not bear the brunt of adding two new teams by a faulty set of playoff brackets.
Starting next season, the NPC's No. 2 seed should host a first-round game and the NPC's No. 3 seed should draw a No. 2 seed in the first round.
But one thing it has done terribly wrong lies in the pre-made 3A playoff brackets, specifically the matchups in the Western Regional for members of the North Piedmont 3A.
The NPC stretched from a seven-school league to one with 10 schools in the last two years. Brand-new institution Carson became a member in 2006-07, and East Rowan and South Rowan dropped from the 4A ranks into the NPC this past season.
As the new "half plus one" rule goes, the NPC received six automatic playoff berths for baseball, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, softball and volleyball (half of the 10-team league is five, plus one is six).
Of those six teams, only the top seed gets a home game in the first round. Every other seed goes on the road.
The playoff brackets for the aforementioned seven sports are the same across the board. Each team that qualifies for the playoffs simply fills in a slot on brackets released weeks in advance. For example, the Piedmont Triad Conference's No. 1 team always hosts the Mid-Piedmont's No. 4 team in the first round; the Big South Conference's No. 2 team always hosts the Mountain Athletic Conference's No. 3 team.
Of the nine conferences that boast 3A teams and therefore have a No. 2 seed in the Western Regional, a whopping seven host a first-round game. Of those seven, five host a No. 3 seed.
The only two leagues that must send a No. 2 seed on the road to play another No. 2 seed are the NPC and Southwestern Conference. The Southwestern Conference is typically regarded as one of the weakest across the board and has only four schools.
Of the six different teams seeded No. 3 from their respective conference, four get a slightly easier draw and play a No. 2 seed while two play a No. 1 seed. Again, the NPC's third-seeded team gets a top-seeded, tougher opponent on the road.
The NCHSAA adopted the "half plus one" rule to add more teams to the playoffs - which is more money that lines the state association's collective pockets - but isn't giving teams from the NPC a fair shake. Iredell County schools should not bear the brunt of adding two new teams by a faulty set of playoff brackets.
Starting next season, the NPC's No. 2 seed should host a first-round game and the NPC's No. 3 seed should draw a No. 2 seed in the first round.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
South Iredell's first inning
Here is what South Iredell's first inning looked like during Tuesday's softball game against Bessemer City.
1. Kasey Kerley slap single
2. Laci Graney single (Kerley moves to second)
3. Devan Poff fly out to left field (Kerley tags up to third)
Graney steals second
4. Kathleen Pasquarella reaches first on a fielder's choice (Kerley scores, Graney moves to third)
Laci Graney scores on wild pitch, Pasquarella advances to second
5. Amber Graney single (Pasquarella scores)
6. Kayla Kerley single (Amber Graney to second)
7. Kelsey Spangler walk (Kayla Kerley to second, A. Graney to third)
8. Kayla Jones triple to right field (A. Graney, Kayla Kerley, Spangler score)
9. Kendall Honeycutt single to left field (Jones scores)
Honeycutt advances to second on wild pitch
10. Kasey Kerley slap single to center (Honeycutt to third)
11. Laci Graney to first on fielder's choice (Honeycutt out at the plate, Kerley to second)
12. Devan Poff single to center (Kerley scores, Graney to second)
13. Kathleen Pasquarella reaches second on error (Laci Graney, Poff score)
14. Amber Graney flies out to left field
I've never seen a team, in baseball or softball, send 14 batters to the plate in one inning. So many of those hits were on the first pitch, too.
The Vikings as a team found themselves in an unusual zone, and they made the most of it. If they do the same during the playoffs, they'll be an incredibly tough out.
1. Kasey Kerley slap single
2. Laci Graney single (Kerley moves to second)
3. Devan Poff fly out to left field (Kerley tags up to third)
Graney steals second
4. Kathleen Pasquarella reaches first on a fielder's choice (Kerley scores, Graney moves to third)
Laci Graney scores on wild pitch, Pasquarella advances to second
5. Amber Graney single (Pasquarella scores)
6. Kayla Kerley single (Amber Graney to second)
7. Kelsey Spangler walk (Kayla Kerley to second, A. Graney to third)
8. Kayla Jones triple to right field (A. Graney, Kayla Kerley, Spangler score)
9. Kendall Honeycutt single to left field (Jones scores)
Honeycutt advances to second on wild pitch
10. Kasey Kerley slap single to center (Honeycutt to third)
11. Laci Graney to first on fielder's choice (Honeycutt out at the plate, Kerley to second)
12. Devan Poff single to center (Kerley scores, Graney to second)
13. Kathleen Pasquarella reaches second on error (Laci Graney, Poff score)
14. Amber Graney flies out to left field
I've never seen a team, in baseball or softball, send 14 batters to the plate in one inning. So many of those hits were on the first pitch, too.
The Vikings as a team found themselves in an unusual zone, and they made the most of it. If they do the same during the playoffs, they'll be an incredibly tough out.
Monday, May 5, 2008
NBA playoffs intriguing ... so far
There were a lot of NBA fans and beat writers who freaked out during last year's NBA playoffs. Several writers and bloggers — most notably ESPN's John Hollinger, a stats geek (in a good way) — proposed several changes to the NBA playoffs.
My favorite one was to keep the same seeds per conference, but create one big 16-team bracket.
There hasn't been as much outcry this year, mainly because the Celtics tore through the regular season, Orlando developed into a legitimate No. 3 team and Cleveland still has that LeBron fellow.
When I did a simulated, what-if bracket last season, six of the eight teams to advance into the second round were from the West. With the East a bit stronger — and just for fun — let's take a look at what this year's playoffs would have looked like using the 16-team bracket projection, which was incredibly popular last season.
Imagine this as one giant bracket:
(1W) Los Angeles
(8E) Atlanta
(4E) Cleveland
(5W) Utah
(3W) San Antonio
(6E) Toronto
(2E) Detroit
(7W) Dallas
(1E) Boston
(8W) Denver
(4W) Houston
(5E) Washington
(3E) Orlando
(6W) Phoenix
(2W) New Orleans
(7E) Philadelphia
We again get a few fascinating first-round matchups, including Phoenix-Orlando, Cleveland-Utah and Detroit-Dallas. A quick projection give us a probable second round of Los Angeles-Utah, San Antonio-Detroit, Boston-Houston, Phoenix-New Orleans and a potential semifinals of Los Angeles-San Antonio, Boston-New Orleans.
There are still some crying for some sort of playoff change, and there are some interesting scenarios in certain new formats, but I think the NBA right now is better than it has been in many, many years.
The talent level is incredible, the historic rivalries are returning in some form and the influx of young, capable players and innovative coaches make for some great up-and-down basketball. I think this year's playoffs will serve as a sign of increased competition in the future.
My favorite one was to keep the same seeds per conference, but create one big 16-team bracket.
There hasn't been as much outcry this year, mainly because the Celtics tore through the regular season, Orlando developed into a legitimate No. 3 team and Cleveland still has that LeBron fellow.
When I did a simulated, what-if bracket last season, six of the eight teams to advance into the second round were from the West. With the East a bit stronger — and just for fun — let's take a look at what this year's playoffs would have looked like using the 16-team bracket projection, which was incredibly popular last season.
Imagine this as one giant bracket:
(1W) Los Angeles
(8E) Atlanta
(4E) Cleveland
(5W) Utah
(3W) San Antonio
(6E) Toronto
(2E) Detroit
(7W) Dallas
(1E) Boston
(8W) Denver
(4W) Houston
(5E) Washington
(3E) Orlando
(6W) Phoenix
(2W) New Orleans
(7E) Philadelphia
We again get a few fascinating first-round matchups, including Phoenix-Orlando, Cleveland-Utah and Detroit-Dallas. A quick projection give us a probable second round of Los Angeles-Utah, San Antonio-Detroit, Boston-Houston, Phoenix-New Orleans and a potential semifinals of Los Angeles-San Antonio, Boston-New Orleans.
There are still some crying for some sort of playoff change, and there are some interesting scenarios in certain new formats, but I think the NBA right now is better than it has been in many, many years.
The talent level is incredible, the historic rivalries are returning in some form and the influx of young, capable players and innovative coaches make for some great up-and-down basketball. I think this year's playoffs will serve as a sign of increased competition in the future.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Realignment goes through
The North Carolina High School Athletic Association officially approved its new conference realignment, which will begin in 2009 and last through 2013. It was an expected move, but allows county teams to know for certain where they will end up for the next few years.
Here's a breakdown of the new conferences for Iredell schools (with attendance figures to the right) and a few thoughts on all three.
2A
Bandys 989
Bunker Hill 886
Draughn ----
East Burke 950
Maiden 824
Newton-Conover 771
South Iredell 991
West Caldwell 1,011
Thoughts: Rather than doing most of its traveling to Lincoln County, the Vikings will now be dispersed to the Hickory area on road trips. One of the first things that pops out to me is wrestling. South, with a great wrestling program, will get huge tests from Bandys and Newton-Conover, two state powers. Football will also be better, as will basketball, especially over at West Caldwell where Danny Anderson has the Warriors humming. Draughn has no attendance figures because it will not open until next season. Overall, this is a very tough, mostly balanced conference.
3A
Carson 1,078
East Rowan 1,246
North Iredell 1,248
South Rowan 1,103
Statesville 1,149
West Iredell 1,052
West Rowan 1,217
Thoughts: The former North Piedmont 3A will condense from 10 to seven schools, with Lake Norman, Mooresville and Northwest Cabarrus - the three largest schools - leaving. This should give the three Iredell teams more breathing room in scheduling non-conference games for all sports. West Rowan and Statesville, maybe even Carson, should be the contenders in football. Statesville's girls soccer program immediately becomes the class of the conference, and North Iredell's girls basketball team should be the favorite in 2009. Some good rivalries have emerged between Rowan and Iredell schools, and those should continue for years. West Iredell, with just a smidge over 1,000 students, is the smallest 3A school in the state and narrowly missed the cut-off of being a 2A school.
4A
Hopewell 2,757
Mallard Creek 2,000
Mooresville 1,616
Lake Norman 1,918
North Mecklenburg 2,461
Vance 2,074
West Charlotte 2,209
Thoughts: This conference is all about the attendance figures. Mooresville actually made an official request to switch conferences, citing location and overall size. The school makes a few good points. Hopewell has 70 percent more students than Mooresville, meaning it will have a much larger pool from which to pull its athletes. That's a huge disparity, and Hopewell and North Meck may grow at an even higher rate than Mooresville and Lake Norman. This conference is loaded from top to bottom, in all sports, and boasts a few of the largest schools in the state. Here's another fascinating story line to me. For the past two years, several NPC coaches have bemoaned having to play Lake Norman and Mooresville, which were easily the two biggest schools in the conference. Now it's quite the opposite as the two Iredell schools are the smallest schools and will face what so many of their opponents did over the past two years: competing against schools with more resources.
Here's a breakdown of the new conferences for Iredell schools (with attendance figures to the right) and a few thoughts on all three.
2A
Bandys 989
Bunker Hill 886
Draughn ----
East Burke 950
Maiden 824
Newton-Conover 771
South Iredell 991
West Caldwell 1,011
Thoughts: Rather than doing most of its traveling to Lincoln County, the Vikings will now be dispersed to the Hickory area on road trips. One of the first things that pops out to me is wrestling. South, with a great wrestling program, will get huge tests from Bandys and Newton-Conover, two state powers. Football will also be better, as will basketball, especially over at West Caldwell where Danny Anderson has the Warriors humming. Draughn has no attendance figures because it will not open until next season. Overall, this is a very tough, mostly balanced conference.
3A
Carson 1,078
East Rowan 1,246
North Iredell 1,248
South Rowan 1,103
Statesville 1,149
West Iredell 1,052
West Rowan 1,217
Thoughts: The former North Piedmont 3A will condense from 10 to seven schools, with Lake Norman, Mooresville and Northwest Cabarrus - the three largest schools - leaving. This should give the three Iredell teams more breathing room in scheduling non-conference games for all sports. West Rowan and Statesville, maybe even Carson, should be the contenders in football. Statesville's girls soccer program immediately becomes the class of the conference, and North Iredell's girls basketball team should be the favorite in 2009. Some good rivalries have emerged between Rowan and Iredell schools, and those should continue for years. West Iredell, with just a smidge over 1,000 students, is the smallest 3A school in the state and narrowly missed the cut-off of being a 2A school.
4A
Hopewell 2,757
Mallard Creek 2,000
Mooresville 1,616
Lake Norman 1,918
North Mecklenburg 2,461
Vance 2,074
West Charlotte 2,209
Thoughts: This conference is all about the attendance figures. Mooresville actually made an official request to switch conferences, citing location and overall size. The school makes a few good points. Hopewell has 70 percent more students than Mooresville, meaning it will have a much larger pool from which to pull its athletes. That's a huge disparity, and Hopewell and North Meck may grow at an even higher rate than Mooresville and Lake Norman. This conference is loaded from top to bottom, in all sports, and boasts a few of the largest schools in the state. Here's another fascinating story line to me. For the past two years, several NPC coaches have bemoaned having to play Lake Norman and Mooresville, which were easily the two biggest schools in the conference. Now it's quite the opposite as the two Iredell schools are the smallest schools and will face what so many of their opponents did over the past two years: competing against schools with more resources.
Friday, May 2, 2008
N.C. 3A tennis poll
Voters in the N.C. Coaches Association 3A tennis poll must have slept through the tennis season. That's about the only reason I can think of as to why someone is still voting Statesville No. 10 in the poll, but not Mooresville.
The Greyhounds won the 3A state championship last season and started the year ranked No. 2 in the state. I don't have a problem with that - they returned two of the best players in the area and deserved some respect as defending champs.
But it really makes no sense that Statesville is even getting a vote - or that it took so long for someone to actually vote for the Blue Devils.
Mooresville finished 8-1 in the North Piedmont 3A, its only loss coming to state champion contender Lake Norman. The Blue Devils also looked good in tough out-of-conference games. Statesville finished 7-2 in the NPC, which included an 8-1 loss to the Blue Devils. 8-1! Statesville played that match without one of its best players, Luke Gillis, but it wouldn't have mattered. Even if you plug in two victories if Gillis was there - which isn't guaranteed - it's still a 6-3 Mooresville win.
That match came April 14, and Statesville got multiple votes in the next two polls. This is the first week Mooresville got any votes at all.
Someone needs to wake up.
The Greyhounds won the 3A state championship last season and started the year ranked No. 2 in the state. I don't have a problem with that - they returned two of the best players in the area and deserved some respect as defending champs.
But it really makes no sense that Statesville is even getting a vote - or that it took so long for someone to actually vote for the Blue Devils.
Mooresville finished 8-1 in the North Piedmont 3A, its only loss coming to state champion contender Lake Norman. The Blue Devils also looked good in tough out-of-conference games. Statesville finished 7-2 in the NPC, which included an 8-1 loss to the Blue Devils. 8-1! Statesville played that match without one of its best players, Luke Gillis, but it wouldn't have mattered. Even if you plug in two victories if Gillis was there - which isn't guaranteed - it's still a 6-3 Mooresville win.
That match came April 14, and Statesville got multiple votes in the next two polls. This is the first week Mooresville got any votes at all.
Someone needs to wake up.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Knee series
As promised in an earlier blog, here's the completed version of my series on ACL injuries. Make sure to check out the video and interactive components, too.
We spent nearly six weeks from start to finish on this series, and my hope is county leaders began to take some serious proactive solutions to help curb this disturbing trend.
I'd also like to thank the athletes, coaches and doctors I talked to for being incredibly helpful.
We spent nearly six weeks from start to finish on this series, and my hope is county leaders began to take some serious proactive solutions to help curb this disturbing trend.
I'd also like to thank the athletes, coaches and doctors I talked to for being incredibly helpful.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Speedy Statesville
Monday's soccer match between Statesville and Mooresville may have been the most entertaining game I have covered during the spring season.
The Greyhounds - who start six sophomores and three freshmen - defeated Mooresville, the No. 8 ranked team in the state, 3-2 by using some incredible team speed.
That's what made the game so entertaining. Statesville's girls were flying all over the field, tracking down loose balls and ripping shot after shot. While the Blue Devils couldn't match that speed, they were the more technically sound squad, so those two dynamics really played out over the course of the game.
Statesville will either be the No. 3 or No. 4 team from the North Piedmont 3A to make the playoffs and they'll play on the road against one of the top teams from another conference. The Greyhounds will be underdogs, but like the team showed Monday, they can pull an upset by running the other team ragged.
The Greyhounds - who start six sophomores and three freshmen - defeated Mooresville, the No. 8 ranked team in the state, 3-2 by using some incredible team speed.
That's what made the game so entertaining. Statesville's girls were flying all over the field, tracking down loose balls and ripping shot after shot. While the Blue Devils couldn't match that speed, they were the more technically sound squad, so those two dynamics really played out over the course of the game.
Statesville will either be the No. 3 or No. 4 team from the North Piedmont 3A to make the playoffs and they'll play on the road against one of the top teams from another conference. The Greyhounds will be underdogs, but like the team showed Monday, they can pull an upset by running the other team ragged.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Wanted: More bulk
The NFL draft is nearly a week away, and I just realized I haven't made a post on it yet. I'm the ultimate NFL draft nerd - buy preview magazines, get the day off work, load up on cheese dip and Diet Mountain Dew (although the cheese dip kind of defeats the purpose of diet soda, no?).
I haven't gotten into draft news and rumors as much as I have in the past. A lot of that has to do with being busy at work, and I also got really into the NCAA tournament this year.
But it's time to address some of the issues the hometown Carolina Panthers face this draft. This certainly could be a make-or-break year for general manager Marty Hurney and head coach John Fox, so it's important they make prudent decision and get no less than three players who will somehow contribute right away, either as a starter or key reserve.
The biggest needs are on the offensive and defensive lines. I'm a big believer in "winning the battle in the trenches," or whatever else you want to call it. If you look at recent teams that advanced to the Super Bowl, they all had good lines. The last - and only - time Carolina advanced to the Super Bowl, it had perhaps the best defensive line in football and a top-10 offensive line.
After a tremendously disappointing year from DE Julius Peppers and an unclear picture on the offensive line, that's where the Panthers should go in the draft.
I think the best pick for them is Boise State tackle Ryan Clady. He's a natural left tackle, which means Jordan Gross stays at right tackle. That would push Travelle Wharton back inside to guard and create some healthy competition for the offensive line's interior. Chris Williams from Vanderbilt or Jeff Otah from Pittsburgh wouldn't be bad picks, but ideally Carolina would like to trade down and get them.
Another intriguing prospect is Derrick Harvey, the defensive end from Florida. He's had a few phenomenal workouts - save for a pretty slow 40 time - and a solid career at Florida. Harvey, combined with Charles Johnson, Stanley McClover and Tyler Braton, would give the Panthers plenty of options for the second defensive end. Harvey, though, is one of those workout wonders, and that sometimes doesn't translate to on-the-field production.
Then there's the dark horse pick, someone like RB Rashard Mendenhall or even RB Jonathan Stewart. I wouldn't have a problem with those picks, as either one would likely get significant carries next season.
I haven't gotten into draft news and rumors as much as I have in the past. A lot of that has to do with being busy at work, and I also got really into the NCAA tournament this year.
But it's time to address some of the issues the hometown Carolina Panthers face this draft. This certainly could be a make-or-break year for general manager Marty Hurney and head coach John Fox, so it's important they make prudent decision and get no less than three players who will somehow contribute right away, either as a starter or key reserve.
The biggest needs are on the offensive and defensive lines. I'm a big believer in "winning the battle in the trenches," or whatever else you want to call it. If you look at recent teams that advanced to the Super Bowl, they all had good lines. The last - and only - time Carolina advanced to the Super Bowl, it had perhaps the best defensive line in football and a top-10 offensive line.
After a tremendously disappointing year from DE Julius Peppers and an unclear picture on the offensive line, that's where the Panthers should go in the draft.
I think the best pick for them is Boise State tackle Ryan Clady. He's a natural left tackle, which means Jordan Gross stays at right tackle. That would push Travelle Wharton back inside to guard and create some healthy competition for the offensive line's interior. Chris Williams from Vanderbilt or Jeff Otah from Pittsburgh wouldn't be bad picks, but ideally Carolina would like to trade down and get them.
Another intriguing prospect is Derrick Harvey, the defensive end from Florida. He's had a few phenomenal workouts - save for a pretty slow 40 time - and a solid career at Florida. Harvey, combined with Charles Johnson, Stanley McClover and Tyler Braton, would give the Panthers plenty of options for the second defensive end. Harvey, though, is one of those workout wonders, and that sometimes doesn't translate to on-the-field production.
Then there's the dark horse pick, someone like RB Rashard Mendenhall or even RB Jonathan Stewart. I wouldn't have a problem with those picks, as either one would likely get significant carries next season.
Monday, April 14, 2008
County thoughts
Thanks for hanging in there, folks. My two weeks working on the ACL-tear series turned into a solid month of work. I'm OK with that, though, because it's a huge subject with tons of different angles, and I think it's important to document everything correctly.
That series of stories will run April 20 and 21, and I'll make sure to post links here. In the meantime, I've gotten out of the office a little bit recently to check out some spring sports.
Mooresville baseball
Hands down the best baseball team in the county. The Blue Devils have supplemented their fantastic pitching with timely hits and are dangerous throughout the lineup. Ten wins in a row is no fluke, but Mooresville has a humongous week ahead with games against East Rowan (unbeaten in conference) and Northwest Cabarrus (beat Blue Devils in first meeting).
North Iredell soccer
Some good talent, as always, but a little thin this year. Head coach Tim Watson has 22 total players in the program, which means - like this year's boys season - he can't field a JV team. Injuries have hit the Raiders hard, though. Midfielder Jana Bell, perhaps the best player on the team, is out for the season with a torn ACL and North also has a few injuries on defense. Goalkeeper Kawoni Revels has been superb at times, and North should still contend for a playoff spot.
Mooresville soccer
Fantastic team, especially offensively. Freshmen Courtney Smith and Hannah Mack can flat-out play, but it's the senior leadership of girls like Anna Dwiggins, Brittney Dailey, Emmie Tyson and Tiffany Wilson that has the Blue Devils ranked No. 4 in the state among 3A teams.
South Iredell baseball
Slowly improving, but must learn how to win close games. Sophomore Chris Dula hurled a no-hitter in his starting pitching debut at the varsity level, so let's see how that translates into potential wins.
THE WEEK AHEAD
I'm looking forward to going to the county track meet Tuesday. Hopefully the weather will cooperate - I can tolerate being a bit chilly so long as the sun is out. Mooresville's boys, the defending 3A state champions, are certainly the favorite and it might take an act of God for them to lose.
The girls' side should be a bit more balanced out, but the Blue Devils and Statesville have to be the favorites. Don't sleep on North Iredell, though. The Raiders are small, but have great athletes. South Iredell's girls team isn't big enough to seriously challenge for the meet title, I don't think, but they could win at least four events.
That series of stories will run April 20 and 21, and I'll make sure to post links here. In the meantime, I've gotten out of the office a little bit recently to check out some spring sports.
Mooresville baseball
Hands down the best baseball team in the county. The Blue Devils have supplemented their fantastic pitching with timely hits and are dangerous throughout the lineup. Ten wins in a row is no fluke, but Mooresville has a humongous week ahead with games against East Rowan (unbeaten in conference) and Northwest Cabarrus (beat Blue Devils in first meeting).
North Iredell soccer
Some good talent, as always, but a little thin this year. Head coach Tim Watson has 22 total players in the program, which means - like this year's boys season - he can't field a JV team. Injuries have hit the Raiders hard, though. Midfielder Jana Bell, perhaps the best player on the team, is out for the season with a torn ACL and North also has a few injuries on defense. Goalkeeper Kawoni Revels has been superb at times, and North should still contend for a playoff spot.
Mooresville soccer
Fantastic team, especially offensively. Freshmen Courtney Smith and Hannah Mack can flat-out play, but it's the senior leadership of girls like Anna Dwiggins, Brittney Dailey, Emmie Tyson and Tiffany Wilson that has the Blue Devils ranked No. 4 in the state among 3A teams.
South Iredell baseball
Slowly improving, but must learn how to win close games. Sophomore Chris Dula hurled a no-hitter in his starting pitching debut at the varsity level, so let's see how that translates into potential wins.
THE WEEK AHEAD
I'm looking forward to going to the county track meet Tuesday. Hopefully the weather will cooperate - I can tolerate being a bit chilly so long as the sun is out. Mooresville's boys, the defending 3A state champions, are certainly the favorite and it might take an act of God for them to lose.
The girls' side should be a bit more balanced out, but the Blue Devils and Statesville have to be the favorites. Don't sleep on North Iredell, though. The Raiders are small, but have great athletes. South Iredell's girls team isn't big enough to seriously challenge for the meet title, I don't think, but they could win at least four events.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
The next few weeks
Just a heads-up on what I'll be doing the next few weeks.
I am undertaking a project that will take a solid two or two-and-a-half weeks to complete. I'm doing a story highlighting several female athletes in the county who have torn their Anterior Cruciate Ligaments recently, and examining why female athletes are much more at risk than their male counterparts.
My stories in the newspaper and my blog posts will be down a bit, but we think it's worth it to spend most of my time on this project.
I am undertaking a project that will take a solid two or two-and-a-half weeks to complete. I'm doing a story highlighting several female athletes in the county who have torn their Anterior Cruciate Ligaments recently, and examining why female athletes are much more at risk than their male counterparts.
My stories in the newspaper and my blog posts will be down a bit, but we think it's worth it to spend most of my time on this project.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Stats from M/LN baseball
For some reason, I really like quirky, obscure stats. So here's some that stand out from Friday's game between Mooresville and Lake Norman, a contest the Blue Devils won 3-2.
Lake Norman belted eight hits and scored two runs, a 4:1 hit-to-run ration. Mooresville scored three runs on three hits, an almost unheard of 1:1 ratio. Those three hits were: an Aubrey Meadows single, a Johnny McElhany infield single and a Jon Crucitti two-run homer. And of those three hits, only Crucitti scored.
Check out Mooresville pitcher Aubrey Meadows' fourth inning. Garrett Braun smacked a double on the first pitch of the inning. Jordan Farell grounded out on a 1-0 count. Jacob Finkbiner grounded out on the first pitch. Joe Faist hit a single on the first pitch. Ross Whitley hit a single on the second pitch. Faist was picked off at third base by catcher Aaron Meadows after two pitches to Nick Lomascolo.
To recap: one inning, six batters faced, three hits, one run on only NINE pitches.
The Wildcats put a ton of first-pitch balls into play, which turned out to be a good thing. Five of their eight hits came on the first pitch of the at-bat. As a team, Lake Norman was 5-for-7 on the first pitch with four singles and a double.
Lake Norman belted eight hits and scored two runs, a 4:1 hit-to-run ration. Mooresville scored three runs on three hits, an almost unheard of 1:1 ratio. Those three hits were: an Aubrey Meadows single, a Johnny McElhany infield single and a Jon Crucitti two-run homer. And of those three hits, only Crucitti scored.
Check out Mooresville pitcher Aubrey Meadows' fourth inning. Garrett Braun smacked a double on the first pitch of the inning. Jordan Farell grounded out on a 1-0 count. Jacob Finkbiner grounded out on the first pitch. Joe Faist hit a single on the first pitch. Ross Whitley hit a single on the second pitch. Faist was picked off at third base by catcher Aaron Meadows after two pitches to Nick Lomascolo.
To recap: one inning, six batters faced, three hits, one run on only NINE pitches.
The Wildcats put a ton of first-pitch balls into play, which turned out to be a good thing. Five of their eight hits came on the first pitch of the at-bat. As a team, Lake Norman was 5-for-7 on the first pitch with four singles and a double.
Monday, March 10, 2008
LN/M soccer thoughts
Some general thoughts on Lake Norman's 1-0 win over Mooresville on Monday:
Both the Wildcats (No, 4) and Blue Devils (No. 9) were ranked in the top-10 in the state among 3A teams in the state coaches poll. Both deserve that accolade. There was some serious skill on the pitch. I know it's just a handful of games into the season, but I could see both teams making it to at least the third round of the playoffs.
Top to bottom, the Wildcats are still incredibly talented, but they're missing some of the departed seniors right now. The midfield played well, but didn't attack as much without Kelly King, who's at Alabama. The defense was stout for the most part, but the Blue Devils got off a few shots that Rachel Steeb wouldn't have allowed. They'll get there, though.
One thing I like about Mooresville is its mix. This group plays well together, and they have members of every class - including two freshmen - starting. Courtney Smith (freshman) is fast and skilled. She nearly gave the Blue Devils a 1-0 lead, but just missed the goal on a pretty cross from Emmie Tyson. Hannah Mack, the other starting freshman, also has good speed and is a tough player. She took some big shots against the Wildcats in what was a physical game.
Both the Wildcats (No, 4) and Blue Devils (No. 9) were ranked in the top-10 in the state among 3A teams in the state coaches poll. Both deserve that accolade. There was some serious skill on the pitch. I know it's just a handful of games into the season, but I could see both teams making it to at least the third round of the playoffs.
Top to bottom, the Wildcats are still incredibly talented, but they're missing some of the departed seniors right now. The midfield played well, but didn't attack as much without Kelly King, who's at Alabama. The defense was stout for the most part, but the Blue Devils got off a few shots that Rachel Steeb wouldn't have allowed. They'll get there, though.
One thing I like about Mooresville is its mix. This group plays well together, and they have members of every class - including two freshmen - starting. Courtney Smith (freshman) is fast and skilled. She nearly gave the Blue Devils a 1-0 lead, but just missed the goal on a pretty cross from Emmie Tyson. Hannah Mack, the other starting freshman, also has good speed and is a tough player. She took some big shots against the Wildcats in what was a physical game.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Line changes a bad idea
Here's an interesting story from Steve Reed at the Gaston Gazette.
http://www.carolinagrowl.com/Read.aspx?Story=523
It's a good read, but the Cliffs Notes version is that the Panthers may have different starters at all five offensive line positions next season.
Apparently, Carolina's brass is interested in Boise State tackle Ryan Clady. The suggestion in this story is that a rookie first-round draft pick would play right tackle, which would move Jordan Gross back to left tackle. Again.
Ryan Kalil is penciled in at center, with Travelle Wharton at left guard and Justin Hartwig/Geoff Hangartner/Keydrick Vincent at right guard.
I don't understand this thought process. Marty Hurney and John Fox were both adamant about the offensive line needing some stability to thrive. So why is - again, potentially - mixing up the entire line a good idea? That's the opposite of stability.
http://www.carolinagrowl.com/Read.aspx?Story=523
It's a good read, but the Cliffs Notes version is that the Panthers may have different starters at all five offensive line positions next season.
Apparently, Carolina's brass is interested in Boise State tackle Ryan Clady. The suggestion in this story is that a rookie first-round draft pick would play right tackle, which would move Jordan Gross back to left tackle. Again.
Ryan Kalil is penciled in at center, with Travelle Wharton at left guard and Justin Hartwig/Geoff Hangartner/Keydrick Vincent at right guard.
I don't understand this thought process. Marty Hurney and John Fox were both adamant about the offensive line needing some stability to thrive. So why is - again, potentially - mixing up the entire line a good idea? That's the opposite of stability.
Monday, February 25, 2008
State wrestling thoughts
This was the second year in a row I've covered Iredell County athletes at the state wrestling championships in Winston-Salem, and the event is one of my favorites to cover. The state tournament had 672 wrestlers and 1,218 matches in three different classifications, which always makes for plenty of storylines.
My story that ran Sunday is here, and my follow-up notebook of information I didn't have room for the previous day is here.
I never wrestled growing up - unless you count the occasional trampoline match with my buddies - and wasn't too familiar with the sport until I began writing for newspapers out of college.
The one thing I like about wrestling is that a match is never over - unless, of course, someone gets pinned or the match is stopped due to a technical fall. But I've seen kids losing 13-0 get a pin out of nowhere and win the match with 10 seconds remaining. That's not possible in other sports. In basketball, if you're down 80-65 with 20 seconds remaining, you aren't going to win.
The athletes are incredibly invested in their matches as well. If you lose a match, most of the time it's because you got outworked, you did something you shouldn't have done or you didn't do something you should have. And it's all on you.
True story: In the depths of the LJVM Coliseum, the warm-up area consists of several mats put together.
This is one of my favorite areas to observe. Kids warm up with others they've never met, talk with teammates and curl up and sleep. I stepped over three sleeping heavyweights to get back upstairs, and I can't say I blame them. The tournament is a grueling two-day event, so some of those guys asleep had been at the Coliseum for at least 12 hours.
When I got over the mat to go upstairs, I noticed one wrestler as far away as possible from the crowd, singlet pulled down and absolutely bawling over what must have been a tough loss. \\
So I went to the concourse, ate some pizza (surprising, I know) and walked back down about 20 minutes later.
The same wrestler, still crying, hadn't moved an inch.
My story that ran Sunday is here, and my follow-up notebook of information I didn't have room for the previous day is here.
I never wrestled growing up - unless you count the occasional trampoline match with my buddies - and wasn't too familiar with the sport until I began writing for newspapers out of college.
The one thing I like about wrestling is that a match is never over - unless, of course, someone gets pinned or the match is stopped due to a technical fall. But I've seen kids losing 13-0 get a pin out of nowhere and win the match with 10 seconds remaining. That's not possible in other sports. In basketball, if you're down 80-65 with 20 seconds remaining, you aren't going to win.
The athletes are incredibly invested in their matches as well. If you lose a match, most of the time it's because you got outworked, you did something you shouldn't have done or you didn't do something you should have. And it's all on you.
True story: In the depths of the LJVM Coliseum, the warm-up area consists of several mats put together.
This is one of my favorite areas to observe. Kids warm up with others they've never met, talk with teammates and curl up and sleep. I stepped over three sleeping heavyweights to get back upstairs, and I can't say I blame them. The tournament is a grueling two-day event, so some of those guys asleep had been at the Coliseum for at least 12 hours.
When I got over the mat to go upstairs, I noticed one wrestler as far away as possible from the crowd, singlet pulled down and absolutely bawling over what must have been a tough loss. \\
So I went to the concourse, ate some pizza (surprising, I know) and walked back down about 20 minutes later.
The same wrestler, still crying, hadn't moved an inch.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Don't expect Wharton to play guard
The popular theory around the Carolinas is that the Panthers resigned Travelle Wharton, who played left tackle last season, with the intent of moving him inside to a guard position. Carolina would then spend a high draft pick - or a lot of money in free agency - on a left tackle.
To me, logic seems to dictate Wharton will remain at left tackle next year and in the future.
Think about it this way: Carolina just cut Mike Wahle, an effective yet injury-plagued guard, to save about $4 million toward its salary cap. Wharton signed a six-year deal with $36 million. I'm not sure if that contract is backloaded or carries incentive clauses (I assume it does), but it doesn't make much financial sense to give someone $6 million a year to play guard, especially when you just cut someone making $4 million.
Compare Wharton's contract to some of the best guards in the league: Steve Hutchinson, who signed a mammoth deal with Minnesota, has a cap figure of $6.7 million. Buffalo's Derrick Dockery has a cap figure of $6.8 million a year. Pittsburgh's Alan Faneca, one of the best offensive linemen in the league, will probably leave Pittsburgh because the Steelers - who currently pay him about $6 million a year - can't afford, or don't want, to resign him.
Wharton played left tackle last year, and struggled at times. But he underwent a major knee operation the year prior, and offensive linemen usually do much better the second year after a surgery. Especially with right tackle Jordan Gross unsigned, I don't think the Panthers have the luxury to pay a guard that much money.
To me, logic seems to dictate Wharton will remain at left tackle next year and in the future.
Think about it this way: Carolina just cut Mike Wahle, an effective yet injury-plagued guard, to save about $4 million toward its salary cap. Wharton signed a six-year deal with $36 million. I'm not sure if that contract is backloaded or carries incentive clauses (I assume it does), but it doesn't make much financial sense to give someone $6 million a year to play guard, especially when you just cut someone making $4 million.
Compare Wharton's contract to some of the best guards in the league: Steve Hutchinson, who signed a mammoth deal with Minnesota, has a cap figure of $6.7 million. Buffalo's Derrick Dockery has a cap figure of $6.8 million a year. Pittsburgh's Alan Faneca, one of the best offensive linemen in the league, will probably leave Pittsburgh because the Steelers - who currently pay him about $6 million a year - can't afford, or don't want, to resign him.
Wharton played left tackle last year, and struggled at times. But he underwent a major knee operation the year prior, and offensive linemen usually do much better the second year after a surgery. Especially with right tackle Jordan Gross unsigned, I don't think the Panthers have the luxury to pay a guard that much money.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Panthers cut two
The Carolina Panthers cut MLB Dan Morgan and OG Mike Wahle yesterday in an effort to clear up some cap space.
Morgan's departure saves the Panthers about $2 million, while releasing Wahle will save around $4 million.
Cutting Morgan makes sense both on the field and in the salary cap. There was always a slim chance Carolina could move Morgan to the outside and keep Jon Beason in the middle, but this felt like the right time for the player and organization to part ways.
I did expect an offensive lineman to be cut, but was surprised it was Wahle. He's been one of the most reliable and consistent linemen, but with Carolina looking to make a splash in free agency and the draft, this was a cost-cutting move.
How could the offensive line look next season? There are a bunch of different scenarios, and most revolve around whether or not the Panthers draft or sign an offensive tackle.
With the roster now, my best guess to the starting offensive line right now would be (from left tackle to right tackle): Travelle Wharton, Justin Hartwig, Ryan Kalil, Jeremy Bridges, Jordan Gross.
Keep in mind, though, that both Wharton and Gross need to be resigned, and general manager Marty Hurney suggested there may be more moves along the offensive line.
I'd expect Carolina to sign a tackle or draft one in the first round, with the intent of playing him on the left side. Then they'd resign Gross to play right tackle. I think Ryan Kalil will be the opening-day center, and I'd expect either Wharton or Bridges - perhaps both - to be gone next season.
Morgan's departure saves the Panthers about $2 million, while releasing Wahle will save around $4 million.
Cutting Morgan makes sense both on the field and in the salary cap. There was always a slim chance Carolina could move Morgan to the outside and keep Jon Beason in the middle, but this felt like the right time for the player and organization to part ways.
I did expect an offensive lineman to be cut, but was surprised it was Wahle. He's been one of the most reliable and consistent linemen, but with Carolina looking to make a splash in free agency and the draft, this was a cost-cutting move.
How could the offensive line look next season? There are a bunch of different scenarios, and most revolve around whether or not the Panthers draft or sign an offensive tackle.
With the roster now, my best guess to the starting offensive line right now would be (from left tackle to right tackle): Travelle Wharton, Justin Hartwig, Ryan Kalil, Jeremy Bridges, Jordan Gross.
Keep in mind, though, that both Wharton and Gross need to be resigned, and general manager Marty Hurney suggested there may be more moves along the offensive line.
I'd expect Carolina to sign a tackle or draft one in the first round, with the intent of playing him on the left side. Then they'd resign Gross to play right tackle. I think Ryan Kalil will be the opening-day center, and I'd expect either Wharton or Bridges - perhaps both - to be gone next season.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Oh Snap!
Attention coaches, parents and athletes in Iredell County.
We've added a new feature to our Around Iredell Web site, a user-submitted photo system called Snap!
You can access it from www.aroundiredell.com/sports, or simply click the link below.
http://aisnap.mycapture.com/mycapture/photos/index.aspx
You can submit a variety of sports photos - signings, banquets and shots from the game. We already have some really good photos of South Iredell softball games, and one of South running back Anthony Thwaites' signing his letter of intent.
We've added a new feature to our Around Iredell Web site, a user-submitted photo system called Snap!
You can access it from www.aroundiredell.com/sports, or simply click the link below.
http://aisnap.mycapture.com/mycapture/photos/index.aspx
You can submit a variety of sports photos - signings, banquets and shots from the game. We already have some really good photos of South Iredell softball games, and one of South running back Anthony Thwaites' signing his letter of intent.
Monday, February 4, 2008
I knew the Giants had a real shot to win when ...
So the New York Giants are world champions, and Eli Manning is the Super Bowl MVP (did I really just type that?).
They deserve it, though. They weathered through some bad losses - like 41-17 to Minnesota - played hard throughout games and, most importantly, got hot late in the season when it matters most.
I was at work on the desk at the R&L, but watched the game through the magic of TiVo today.
Here's the first point in my mind when I really thought the Giants had a very good chance to win. It's kind of out there, so bear with me.
On New England's first play of the game, Tom Brady faked a hand-off to Laurence Maroney, then faked an end around. He kept the ball with the intent of throwing a screen pass back to Maroney. He was hit hard, and the pass fluttered incomplete.
Seriously, that's the play New England drew up to start the game? That's either really, really arrogant or really, really stupid. Or both.
Let me explain.
For that play to work properly, there are a couple of things that needed to be in place. First, the Patriots needed to have already established a running game up the middle. Secondly, New England needed to show the ability to run a reverse or end around with its dangerously fast receivers. And the Giants would have needed to overpursue tackles throughout the game. All those things happen and it's the perfect play.
That's why it made no sense to call that on the first play of the game. New York was playing its gaps, and didn't bite on either play-action because nothing was established. It was an easy blitz to the quarterback, an easy incompletion.
New England's coaching staff and players were off the entire game, and that first call sort of set the tone for the rest of the night.
They deserve it, though. They weathered through some bad losses - like 41-17 to Minnesota - played hard throughout games and, most importantly, got hot late in the season when it matters most.
I was at work on the desk at the R&L, but watched the game through the magic of TiVo today.
Here's the first point in my mind when I really thought the Giants had a very good chance to win. It's kind of out there, so bear with me.
On New England's first play of the game, Tom Brady faked a hand-off to Laurence Maroney, then faked an end around. He kept the ball with the intent of throwing a screen pass back to Maroney. He was hit hard, and the pass fluttered incomplete.
Seriously, that's the play New England drew up to start the game? That's either really, really arrogant or really, really stupid. Or both.
Let me explain.
For that play to work properly, there are a couple of things that needed to be in place. First, the Patriots needed to have already established a running game up the middle. Secondly, New England needed to show the ability to run a reverse or end around with its dangerously fast receivers. And the Giants would have needed to overpursue tackles throughout the game. All those things happen and it's the perfect play.
That's why it made no sense to call that on the first play of the game. New York was playing its gaps, and didn't bite on either play-action because nothing was established. It was an easy blitz to the quarterback, an easy incompletion.
New England's coaching staff and players were off the entire game, and that first call sort of set the tone for the rest of the night.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
This week's videos
We have three videos up on aroundiredell.com/sports this week.
For the weekly installment of The Sports Show, click here.
We also continued our weekly installment of player profiles, this time from North Iredell. Here are the links to North Iredell girls player Kandace Hoots and boys player Marlon "Poppy" Staton.
We'll be at South Iredell next week.
For the weekly installment of The Sports Show, click here.
We also continued our weekly installment of player profiles, this time from North Iredell. Here are the links to North Iredell girls player Kandace Hoots and boys player Marlon "Poppy" Staton.
We'll be at South Iredell next week.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
A little self promotion
Readers - you can click here to see a video story on free throw shooting in Iredell County. Our Web producer, Jess Norman, and I went to different high schools to talk to players about their free throw form.
We'll do more video stories in the future. Make sure you give the video time to load.
I'm going to start posting a weekly link to The Sports Show as well.
We'll do more video stories in the future. Make sure you give the video time to load.
I'm going to start posting a weekly link to The Sports Show as well.
Monday, January 21, 2008
It's down to two
Depending on which conference you look at, my Super Bowl predictions were either outstanding or abysmal.
Way back in September on this blog, I projected New England to make the Super Bowl after beating San Diego in the AFC Championship game. Perfect.
The NFC was a different story. I had New Orleans beating St. Louis. The same St. Louis team that will have the No. 2 pick in next year's NFL draft. I know the Rams were without Orlando Pace for the entire season, and Steven Jackson was banged up, but that's still an embarrassing pick.
Who do you like in the Super Bowl? It has to be the Patriots, right?
Way back in September on this blog, I projected New England to make the Super Bowl after beating San Diego in the AFC Championship game. Perfect.
The NFC was a different story. I had New Orleans beating St. Louis. The same St. Louis team that will have the No. 2 pick in next year's NFL draft. I know the Rams were without Orlando Pace for the entire season, and Steven Jackson was banged up, but that's still an embarrassing pick.
Who do you like in the Super Bowl? It has to be the Patriots, right?
Sunday, January 13, 2008
My All-Underrated team
Here at the R&L, we do our all county teams in every varsity sport. For basketball specifically, there's also the Holiday Classic all tournament team, selected by the coaches.
What I'd like to do is present my completely unofficial "All-Underrated team," two five-player teams compromised of good, solid basketball players that perhaps aren't as well-known as say: Keyrra Gillespie, Kasey Haynes, Paul Larsen, Santana Morrison, Tyrece Scott or Quan Rucker.
Again, this is completely my opinion and is based off what I have observed this season from the games I've seen and conversations throughout the year with coaches.
BOYS
A.J. Barringer (South Iredell): Barringer is young, but has developed nicely this season. He has a great jump shot, is a hard worker and is clutch at the free throw line. He's come off the bench to hit some big shots for the Vikings, and his 17 points were the lone bright spot in a 99-55 loss to Cherryville.
Spencer Cook (Lake Norman): First of all, it must be noted that Cook looks a bit like Kurt Rambis with his goggles. Not the clean-shaven Rambis as a coach, but this Rambis in his playing days. He plays like him too, which is a good thing. Cook's very valuable to Lake Norman in coming off the bench to spell starters Nathan Bowers and Paul Larsen. He has a very good understanding of post play, and likes to bang inside for the rebounds.
Chris Patterson (Mooresville): Patterson has only played basketball for a few years, but he has earned a starting spot for the Blue Devils as a junior. Despite his clumsy-looking shot, Patterson is one of the deadliest outside shooters in the county. But he also isn't afraid to take it to the hoop, and has emerged as a legitimate scoring option this season.
Ryan Sharpe (North Iredell): His scoring fluctuates between four and 12 points a game, but Sharpe is a rebounding machine. A lanky post player, he uses his freakishly long arms to control rebounds most players couldn't get. He also gets good position underneath and knows how to box out.
Jordan Daywalt (Statesville): Daywalt may play harder than any other girl in the county. She does a great job playing back in Statesville's full-court press, and is usually the first one to hit the floor going after a loose ball. She also consistently pulls down tough rebounds against bigger opponents.
Shakira McLaughlin (Mooresville): It's almost cheating to put McLaughlin on an underrated list because she's so talented. But she's underrated because not too many people know about the freshman guard on the southern end of the county. McLaughlin is a big reason why the Blue Devils have played much better basketball this season, and there have been multiple games where she's recorded double-digit points and at least five assists, rebounds and steals.
Caroline Moffett (Lake Norman): Moffett doesn't score a ton of points, but she more than makes up for it with smart play and great defense. She's one of the best in the county when it comes to using both her left and right hand properly, and she's a fearless one-on-one perimeter defender.
Elizabeth Walden (West Iredell): Granted, I've only seen West Iredell play twice, but Walden stood out both times. West's post players fill up the stat sheet, but Walden plays a big role in getting them the ball and hitting open jumpers when the posts are double-teamed.
JoBeth Wright (Lake Norman): Wright would start for any other team in the county, but is typically a reserve on the incredibly deep Lake Norman squad. Wright, a post, does everything well. She has good range, but also rebounds well and plays tough defense. She's also an emotional player, and carried the Wildcats back into the game when they trailed Statesville in the Holiday Classic finals.
What I'd like to do is present my completely unofficial "All-Underrated team," two five-player teams compromised of good, solid basketball players that perhaps aren't as well-known as say: Keyrra Gillespie, Kasey Haynes, Paul Larsen, Santana Morrison, Tyrece Scott or Quan Rucker.
Again, this is completely my opinion and is based off what I have observed this season from the games I've seen and conversations throughout the year with coaches.
BOYS
A.J. Barringer (South Iredell): Barringer is young, but has developed nicely this season. He has a great jump shot, is a hard worker and is clutch at the free throw line. He's come off the bench to hit some big shots for the Vikings, and his 17 points were the lone bright spot in a 99-55 loss to Cherryville.
Spencer Cook (Lake Norman): First of all, it must be noted that Cook looks a bit like Kurt Rambis with his goggles. Not the clean-shaven Rambis as a coach, but this Rambis in his playing days. He plays like him too, which is a good thing. Cook's very valuable to Lake Norman in coming off the bench to spell starters Nathan Bowers and Paul Larsen. He has a very good understanding of post play, and likes to bang inside for the rebounds.
Chris Patterson (Mooresville): Patterson has only played basketball for a few years, but he has earned a starting spot for the Blue Devils as a junior. Despite his clumsy-looking shot, Patterson is one of the deadliest outside shooters in the county. But he also isn't afraid to take it to the hoop, and has emerged as a legitimate scoring option this season.
Ryan Sharpe (North Iredell): His scoring fluctuates between four and 12 points a game, but Sharpe is a rebounding machine. A lanky post player, he uses his freakishly long arms to control rebounds most players couldn't get. He also gets good position underneath and knows how to box out.
Adrian Sloan (Statesville): Sloan has improved more than any player I've seen this season. He's an unselfish, big forward with decent range and can make teams pay when they play a 3-2 zone to stop Statesville's shooters.
GIRLSJordan Daywalt (Statesville): Daywalt may play harder than any other girl in the county. She does a great job playing back in Statesville's full-court press, and is usually the first one to hit the floor going after a loose ball. She also consistently pulls down tough rebounds against bigger opponents.
Shakira McLaughlin (Mooresville): It's almost cheating to put McLaughlin on an underrated list because she's so talented. But she's underrated because not too many people know about the freshman guard on the southern end of the county. McLaughlin is a big reason why the Blue Devils have played much better basketball this season, and there have been multiple games where she's recorded double-digit points and at least five assists, rebounds and steals.
Caroline Moffett (Lake Norman): Moffett doesn't score a ton of points, but she more than makes up for it with smart play and great defense. She's one of the best in the county when it comes to using both her left and right hand properly, and she's a fearless one-on-one perimeter defender.
Elizabeth Walden (West Iredell): Granted, I've only seen West Iredell play twice, but Walden stood out both times. West's post players fill up the stat sheet, but Walden plays a big role in getting them the ball and hitting open jumpers when the posts are double-teamed.
JoBeth Wright (Lake Norman): Wright would start for any other team in the county, but is typically a reserve on the incredibly deep Lake Norman squad. Wright, a post, does everything well. She has good range, but also rebounds well and plays tough defense. She's also an emotional player, and carried the Wildcats back into the game when they trailed Statesville in the Holiday Classic finals.
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