Trinity Rodman, the daughter of five-time NBA champion and Basketball Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman, is as adept at soccer as her world-famous dad was at rebounding.
20-year-old Trinity Rodman, Dennis Rodman's daughter, has been drafted by @WashSpirit with the 2nd pick in the 2021 @NWSL Draft 🔥 pic.twitter.com/p7kAfh3Wn6
— B/R Football (@brfootball) January 14, 2021
Rodman played great in her inaugural season with the Washington Spirit in the National Women’s Soccer League and then was awarded a three-year extension worth a league-record $1.1 million. It’s a deal that will make WNBA players with max deals that don’t exceed $250K very jealous. The deal, $281,000 per season, is seven times more per season than her rookie season contract of $42,000.
In a league where the base salary is $75,000 for next season, Rodman is set to make almost four times that. Star players in the league receive allocated funds provided by the league due to the exposure and visibility they bring being a part of the league.
Trinity Rodman becomes the highest-paid player in NWSL history 👏 @HighlightHER
The 19-year old has signed a four-year, $1.1M guaranteed contract with the Washington Spirit pic.twitter.com/4OxahgH8Te
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 2, 2022
After being drafted No. 2 overall in the 2021 NWSL draft by the Spirit, the talented 19-year-old was nothing short of sensational as a rookie. She accounted for seven goals and seven assists, but it’s her high IQ and understanding of the game that really stands out. The Spirit won the NSWL championship despite a tumultuous season which saw the removal of head coach Richie Burke after an investigation proved he created a hostile work environment by verbally and emotionally abusing his players. Majority owner Steve Baldwin was forced to sell his stake for allowing Burke to operate in such a manner.
NWSL Rookie of the Year ✅
U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year ✅@trinity_rodman is the future 🇺🇸🙌 pic.twitter.com/dqFnHlan6V— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) December 17, 2021
The former Bulls, Lakers and Spurs star admitted at his Hall of Fame speech that he hasn’t always been the best father, but he’s been developing a tighter bond with Trinity. They share the superstar sports gene as both are all-time great players in their respective sports.
Trinity has some time to go before she reaches Hall of Fame status, but her skills are undeniable, and she’s on the fast track to becoming one of the major faces of women’s sports.
Trinity’s Dad hadn’t seen her play much in person and had not at all since she became a pro, but he showed up for a playoff game back in November, and they shared an embrace.
The relationship between father and daughter is a bit tenuous. Trinity said they’ve gone long stretches with little to no communication at all. But she was happy to see her pops show up for the Spirit’s 1-0 playoff win over the North Carolina Courage.
Rodman’s agent Mike Senkowski talked to Sportico about his client’s record deal.
“The way she performed in his first year allowed us to go to the club and push to get a new deal done. And credit the team. They understood it. They agreed they have a generational talent and they wanted to reward that.
“How many teenagers, in any sport, come into the league in year one and rip up their rookie deals after doing all the things she did from an athletic standpoint and become the highest paid player in the league? Nobody could script that.”
Trinity Rodman explained to Sportico what the deal and tumultuous season meant to her.
“What our team has been through was insane and what the league’s been through has been crazy, but my team in D.C. has been amazing. The growth that I’ve had here — I don’t even know the words to describe it. I’m just grateful for what I’ve learned and the people I’ve been around throughout the season. The league is growing every single day, and the players are the biggest part of that. We’ve worked so hard, and we deserve the world. And I hope this deal shows it.”
Rodman knows this deal is rare, as she makes more than USWNT stalwarts Megan Rapinoe and Alex Morgan, but she’s also looking to rake in the dough off the field as well. Currently boasting an endorsement deal with Adidas, the star striker has lofty goals to make it so that the entire league is receiving quality pay.
Rookie of the Year, and she's only just getting started 👀 @trinity_rodman#ImpossibleIsNothing pic.twitter.com/UbM84BmYZh
— adidas (@adidas) November 18, 2021
Trinity Rodman’s soccer prowess is impossible to ignore. The young phenom was added to the U.S. women’s national soccer team’s roster this month, clearing the path for her to participate in the next Olympics and Women’s World Cup.
Initially, she was invited to the seventh annual SheBelieves Cup as a practice player, but she was added Monday to the full squad after defender Abby Dahlkemper withdrew with a back injury.
Rodman is the youngest of 23 players who will report to training camp Thursday in San Diego ahead of matches against the Czech Republic on Feb. 17 and New Zealand on Feb. 20 in Carson, California, and Iceland on Feb. 23 in Frisco, Texas.
According to MSN, the former youth national team star participated in a U.S. senior camp for the first time last month in Austin, Texas. In trimming the roster for the SheBelieves Cup squad, coach Vlatko Andonovski said Rodman “looks really good in the league, but the national team is a different animal.”
Rodman is on a trajectory to greatness. Her fiery attitude is reminiscent of her dad’s grit, and her elite athleticism comes from the family genes too. She’s going to move to the forefront of American women’s soccer as Team USA searches for new leaders with many of the veterans retired or soon to be.
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How U.S. Tax Code Disadvantages Black Americans But Privileges White Families
Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson is on the shortlist for most entertaining athletes ever. What does it for Tyson is authenticity. This isn’t an act. He is who he says he is, in every story he tells. Tyson spoke to Vlad TV and talked about using a sexual relationship with a prison counselor in order to receive a reduced sentence.
“I got in trouble like the first six months and stuff, cursing, getting written up. And then by that time, I got the hang of the place. ‘Hey, I know how to do this.’ Next thing you know, I’m dating one of the counsel workers now, she’s letting me have sex with her now. So I’m going good. But the first six months I was getting write-ups, I have to pay that year back.”
Today, Feb. 11, marks the 32 year anniversary of Tyson’s shocking loss to James “Buster” Douglas. Tyson was undefeated and the undisputed heavyweight champion heading into that match in 1990. He was “baddest man on the planet” and the overwhelming betting favorite.
32 years ago today, Buster Douglas shocked the world when he upset Mike Tyson as a 42-to-1 underdog 😤 pic.twitter.com/LhzcojDgwg
— ESPN (@espn) February 11, 2022
The stunning loss via KO in the 10th round sent Tyson on a bit of a spiral. Though he won his next four fights to set up a bout with reigning champion Evander Holyfield in 1991, Tyson suffered an injury during training and had to pull out of the fight.
In July of that year Tyson was arrested, charged and convicted of raping Desiree Washington. It was during this prison stint when he engaged in a sexual relationship with a prison counselor.
“[Now] I’m like a star pupil prisoner. Trusty, everything. Then, ‘Hey, Mike, remember the first six months you were a prick?’ Boom. They gave me another year. So by passing the GED [General Education Development test] they took that year away. So I flunked the f***ing GED and got mad, and so I had to start dating this counselor and stuff, giving her money and doing really some nasty stuff to her, and she let me pass this test.”
Tyson emerged from prison, resumed his boxing career and regained the WBC and WBA heavyweight titles, but he was never really the same following the two Holyfield bouts. Particularly the final fight when he bit part of Holyfield’s ear off.
Since his final professional fight in 2005, Tyson has remained a sought-after figure in popular culture. He’s been in movies, commercials, music videos, published books, and is growing a marijuana business. The man they still call “Iron Mike” and champ continues on.
It hasn’t all been roses. Tyson is a convicted and registered sex offender, he’s struggled with his sobriety (alcohol and drugs), lost a child, been divorced twice, and has had his share of financial difficulties.
Tyson was in talks to fight an exhibition match against Jake Paul, but apparently the money wasn’t right for the now 55-year-old former champ.
The fact that he’s alive and doing well is remarkable when you look back at all the times things could have ended tragically for wrong for him.
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The Denver Broncos appear to be themost serious contenders for the first NFL franchise to sell to a Black ownership team. Media and TV mogul Byron Allen announced this week that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft suggested that he buy an NFL team. Allen, a former comedian and actor, launched his own media company in 1993 and has amassed a fortune worth somewhere between $450M-$600M.
"Roger Goodell And Robert Kraft Asked Me To Look At Buying An NFL Team" | Byron Allen Vying To Become NFL's First Black Owner – The Shadow League https://t.co/KnEIWPF1Ys
— The Shadow League (@ShadowLeague) February 10, 2022
The Denver Broncos are expected to sell for close to $4 billion, so even if the NFL is willing to sell the franchise to Allen, he will have to find some other partners with long money to close the deal.
Various celebrity websites report Byron Allen's net worth at $450 million. So either his value is drastically underreported or he is in process of lining up partners as Broncos expected to go for $4 billion. #9sports https://t.co/xMiRAKZOqG
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) February 8, 2022
That’s where Kanye West steps into the picture. As of March 2021, West’s net worth is reportedly $6.6B.
Why are we mentioning Kanye, who has never expressed any real interest in sports, as a potential owner for the Broncos?
Well, on Thursday, former NFL player Antonio Brown, the newly crowned President of Donda Sports, tweeted that Kanye West should buy the Denver Broncos.
Donda Sports want to buy the @Broncos who with me !
— AB (@AB84) February 11, 2022
Brown also tweeted out that the NFL should get in contact with Kanye if they are seriously seeking Black ownership.
NFL CALL YE
— AB (@AB84) February 11, 2022
When AB was getting eviscerated for disrobing, blowing kisses to the crowd as he took his final bow on the NFL stage, then accusing the Tampa Bay Bucs and head coach Bruce Arians of forcing him to play and injecting drugs to numb the pain of an injury, nobody knew that Kanye would in essence, throw him a lifeline by taking Brown under his wing and giving him a prominent position in a field that he knows all too well.
Now, he’s like the royal messenger translating all of Kanye’s thoughts and Donda Sports power moves to the masses. As far as popularity and notoriety goes, AB has gone from celebrity to global icon of sorts and the face of one of Yeezy’s most ambitious ventures to date.
It’s possible that if Kanye does get in on the Broncos deal with Byron Allen Brown might have some stake in the Broncos. How ironic would that be?
Two Peas In A Pod
When Kanye West first met Antonio Brown it was obviously love at first sight. Kanye probably saw how troubled, misunderstood and unappreciated AB felt, especially in the days leading up to his infamous mid-game exit. Kanye, a troubled soul to some degree in his own right, saw a potential kinship.
West, who has had more than his share of controversial moments — from his support of Donald Trump to his admitted struggles with mental health (we’ve witnessed too many Kanye meltdowns in live time) to more recently, his battles with his estranged wife Kim Kardashian and his evangelical rap career with Joel Osteen — probably thought he was looking in the mirror as he followed the polarizing and passionate reactions by fans to Antonio Brown’s every move.
AB’s also doing his music thing, as Rick Ross and he are close.
Yeezy possibly saw a man who was a misunderstood genius. A master of his craft who refuses to live within the constraints of corporate America and society’s norms. Yeezy is a rebel, so he definitely respects the fact that AB won’t just “shut up” and play ball.
So, after rim-rocking social media and the tabloids by appearing together at various high society functions and gatherings over the past several weeks, it was first announced that Brown would be taking an active role in Donda Sports as the company tries to change the culture of cultivating and protecting the mental health of athletes. In a matter of days, he became player-president.
He’s going to have his hands full with the new school West is opening in Simi Valley, which he hopes to turn into a sports empire with the best recruits from across the globe.
Kanye West & His New Donda Academy Form High School Super Team | Bronny James Is On The Hit List
The Antonio Brown saga just got a lot more interesting. Stay tuned for the adventures of Yeezy and AB. How long can these two toxic titans of sports and entertainment co-exist?
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Joe Rogan has a lot of apologists in the mixed martial arts business after hisN-word usage was exposed, and ironically they are the UFC’s Black fighters.
UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is the latest to defend the comedian turned UFC color commentator and world-renown podcaster.
On the heels of his UFC 271 title defense against Robert Whittaker, “The Last Stylebender” made it clear where he stands in the polarization of Rogan.
All this fawning for Joe Rogan. Nah Izzy…that’s not it. pic.twitter.com/YBYjgUrvt8
— Michael Morgan (@mikecmorgan) February 11, 2022
“I’m Black. I can take this one, look. There’s a lot of c**ts in this game; there’s a lot of snakes in this game. I’ve been in this fight game since 2008, and Joe Rogan is one of the nicest, coolest humble motherf-ckers I’ve had the pleasure of working with; understand that.
“F**k the noise, man, you know what they’re trying to do, you can’t control them, man and he’s got the biggest platform in the world right now, so that’s my n***a Joe Rogan, f**k the noise. Keep doing you, Joe, have some mushrooms just keep doing you.”
Spotify has an exclusive licensing deal with Rogan, who has sprinkled racist language on his show for years. Spotify has not severed its relationship with Rogan.
Spotify CEO Daniel Ek said in a message to employees released Sunday that the company is not severing ties with Rogan.
“While I strongly condemn what Joe has said and I agree with his decision to remove past episodes from our platform, I realize some will want more,” Ek said in the note. “And I want to make one point very clear — I do not believe that silencing Joe is the answer.”
Former UFC light heavyweight champion Rashad Evans also weighed in, showing his support for Rogan.
“It’s a very tough problem,” said Rashad Evans to TMZ Sports. “That compilation of the N-word, it’s hard to go against that. I know Joe, and I know the kind of person he is. Joe has never gave me any feeling or any kind of indication that he’s racist or anything like that.
“I believe that people just make some off-color remarks sometimes, and if you’re a comedian, you do that quite a bit, and you get comfortable doing that, you know. Not to excuse any of it, but at the same time, when you go back that far, I’m sure there can be a compilation of a lot of unfavorable things that a lot of people have said that can come back and bite them, you know.”
With cancel culture being pervasive amongst corporate brands that do not want to lose any support potentially, the pressure has been on the UFC and Spotify, where Rogan hosts the biggest podcast on the network, to make an amends or cut ties.
How Black male athletes look when they defend Joe Rogan pic.twitter.com/CJlfiiWBH3
— Tariq Nasheed 🇺🇸 (@tariqnasheed) February 11, 2022
Evans feels that is a bad idea because he claims other prominent people like current President Joe Biden have passed their past racial transgressions.
“I think they (UFC) should stand by Joe Rogan,” Evans said. “I don’t think that those allegations and the compilation speaks to who Joe Rogan is now. I feel that in some respects, they give certain people a pass. Our president is one who they gave a pass to. There’s many things that I’ve heard him say that sounded racist, and I’ve heard him use the N-word in context like how Joe used it,” although it was unclear what Biden remarks he could have been referring to.
“So that’s completely overlooked, and he was considered the savior of people of color and supposed to be this guy to bring the nation together, but all of his past racism was overlooked, his affiliation with racist people was overlooked,” Evans continued. “I’m not saying he’s a racist or anything like that, but people can change, and people do change, and I don’t think that Joe Rogan is that racist person.”
Joe Rogan rips into media:
"The answer isn't to silence me. The answer is for you to do better." pic.twitter.com/fYoBj6AAa9
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) February 11, 2022
“With the relationships that I’ve seen him have and how he’s treated me, I don’t think a racist person would be like that,” Evans insisted. “I just think that we are at a place in our culture where if people don’t like what you have to say, then you get canceled. When that’s the case, you walk a line that, inevitably, it’s going to bite everybody.”
The irony of the support by Black fighters for Rogan is telling of the sport’s culture that still has yet to grapple with its lack of diversity in leadership and audience outreach.
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Race is a social construct. More specifically an American-centered social construct defined by Black and white, both literally and figuratively. It is that construct that shaped the last 400 plus years of this nation’s fraught existence and abhorrent treatment of those that are identified as Black. New Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel in his introductory press conference said it was very “odd” that people want to identify him in racial terms, as he identifies as a “human being.”
“It’s been very odd, to tell you the truth, this idea of ‘identifying’ as something,” McDaniel said. “I think people identify me as something, but I identify as a human being and my dad is Black. So whatever you want to call it, I know there’s a lot of people with a shared experience. It’s weird that it comes up because I’ve just tried to be a good person.
Mike McDaniel on people talking about his racial background "It's been very odd…I identify as a human being and my dad's black" pic.twitter.com/XRRrNsNsc1
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) February 10, 2022
McDaniel is biracial. His father is Black and his mother is white. Looking at McDaniel most people in America would identify him as white or, more correctly, he presents as a white man. Why does all of this matter?
The NFL has a horrendous record when it comes to the hiring of Black men in positions of prominence, like general manager and head coach. Ex-Dolphins head coach Brian Flores filed a federal lawsuit against the league, Dolphins, Denver Broncos and New York Giants citing racial discrimination in hiring practices.
But McDaniel, due to his biracial status counts as a minority hire and awards the San Francisco 49ers, McDaniel’s former employer, benefits. The 49ers have been given two third-round draft picks for developing their former offensive coordinator into a head coach. This is part of the NFL’s revamped Rooney Rule, aimed at improving hiring practices around Black and other minority coaching candidates.
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ Mike Tomlin and Houston Texans’ Lovie Smith are the lone Black head coaches in the NFL, and Smith was just hired this week. Add in Washington’s Ron Rivera, the New York Jets’ Robert Saleh and now McDaniel, that’s a total of five minority head coaches.
While McDaniel might choose to identify as a human being, the fact that he presents as white was likely not a detriment to his rise through the ranks in the NFL. He said himself he has no experience with racism because of what he’s identified as. McDaniel stopped short of saying white. Why? Probably because he knows that passing has been good for his career.
He also said he knows his mom experienced racism when she married his dad and that his dad experienced it. But he was also clear to say that racism was other people’s (read: not his as a passing Black man’s) problems.
“I think my background opens my eyes a little bit. I don’t have any real experience with racism because I think you identify me as something close to — I don’t know. I know my mom experienced it when she married my dad. I know my dad experienced it, that’s in my family. But I guess that makes me a human being that can identify with other people’s problems.”
Writer Michael Harriot on Twitter made the point that racism isn’t defined by what an individual chooses to identify as but rather what people in power choose to identify you as. In America and its binary racial construct, power resides with white people.
If I “chose to identify” as a mix of pitbull & ballpeen hammer, am I half pet, half carpentry tool?
Or am I part killer dog part deadly weapon?
Racism has nothing to do with how one “chooses to identify.” It’s a byproduct of white people’s POWER to define the identity of others https://t.co/oBGrk0aTg1
— Michael Harriot (@michaelharriot) February 10, 2022
ESPN anchor Sage Steele, who also identifies as biracial, believes you don’t have to choose. She believes people who see things in Black and white can’t handle McDaniel’s right to identify as a human being.
This is so simple.
White mom+black dad = biracial. I'd NEVER choose one. I'm so proud of BOTH my white & black families..I'm SO PROUD to be biracial.
For some reason, ppl can't handle that. But there's peace in no longer caring what others think. Good on you, Mike McDaniel https://t.co/SCyyc4ziZc— Sage Steele (@sagesteele) February 10, 2022
People are entitled to identify themselves however they choose, we have that freedom. But in a country and society built off chattel slavery supported by a binary racial construct that still exists and directly impacts governance, self-identifying as human or biracial doesn’t change societal realities.
Whether it’s the NFL or the larger society, how you are identified by the power structure within the construct is the critical factor.
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They say what goes around comes around. That’s certainly true for former league MVP and Los Angeles Lakers point guard Russell Westbrook. Minnesota Timberwolves guard Patrick Beverley, a known Westbrook antagonizer, tweeted that he remembered when Westbrook said “all I do is run around and trick y’all” regarding Beverley’s defense, and that Westbrook is “the real magician.” That of course being a reference to Westbrook’s poor play this season and his “disappearance” from the group of elite NBA players.
I remember when somebody said all I do is run around and I trick y’all 😂 well my boy is The Real Magician this year.
— Patrick Beverley (@patbev21) February 10, 2022
NBA players are so petty it’s hilarious.
Beverly is certainly having fun at Westbrook’s expense, but there is a lot of history in this back-and-forth.
The beef between these two goes back to the 2013 NBA playoffs when Westbrook was with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Beverley was with the Houston Rockets.
Beverley collided with Westbrook after the Thunder called a timeout in Game 2 of their first-round series. Westbrook was diagnosed with a torn meniscus in his right knee that required multiple surgeries. It was a borderline dirty play.
Westbrook’s extremely low tolerance for Beverley is warranted.
They’ve had many battles in the years since including in the 2019-20 season when Westbrook, then a member of the Rockets, dropped his “trick y’all” remarks.
Beverley is having his fun now as his Timberwolves are a better team than the Lakers and Westbrook has been benched in fourth quarters of recent games due to his ineffective play.
In terms of impact on the floor this is Westbrook’s worst season as a pro. He’s -1.5 in EPM, that’s in the 49th percentile in the entire NBA. Never known as an efficient scorer, he’s having his third-worst season in terms of efficiency. His eFG% and TS% are 47 and 50 respectively.
The Lakers tried to trade him before Thursday’s deadline but were unable to find a team with players they desired willing to take on Westbrook and his contract. He has a player option that he can exercise, which he will absolutely do, for $47 million at the end of the season.
Even if it’s only a year, who wants a declining 33-year-old point guard that makes that kind of money? The Lakers are stuck with him.
These two will likely continue their beef until the day they retire from the league. Such is the life of NBA ballers.
The next installment of their rivalry will take place on March 16 when the Lakers visit Minnesota. That game will be important for both teams as they head toward the playoffs.
Right now the Timberwolves are in the seventh spot, just a game and a half behind the Denver Nuggets for sixth. The top six in each conference guarantees a playoff berth, while the next four spots compete in the play-in-tournament. FiveThirtyEight projects the Timberwolves finish with a 45-37 record and a 91 percent chance of making the playoffs.
The Lakers are 26-30 and in ninth place, five games out of the top six. The play-in range is where they seem to be hovering. FiveThirtyEight projects the Lakers finish with a 37-45 record and a 27 percent chance of making the playoffs.
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Jackson State head football coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders spoke about the lack of diversity in the NFL’s leadership positions recently.
In a league where over 70 percent of its employees are Black, there are only two Black coaches. He’s also of the belief that the only way to get Blacks hired fairly is to add three new expansion teams and only allow them to be sold to Black owners.
Sanders mentioned what has long been understood; that you can’t make current owners hire someone they don’t want to.
Where I come from if u don’t work u don’t eat unless you’re a child. #CoachPrime pic.twitter.com/qFYmN2F75u
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) December 2, 2021
There were nine head coach openings, and the only Blacks that were hired were Lovie Smith and Mike McDaniel, who is biracial but clearly has chosen not to identify with his Black dad’s side of the family
Mike McDaniel on people talking about his racial background "It's been very odd…I identify as a human being and my dad's black" pic.twitter.com/XRRrNsNsc1
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) February 10, 2022
Smith was hired by the completely dysfunctional Houston Texans knowing they will eventually have former NFL journeyman QB Josh McCown lead the team. But not until he learns the ropes from Lovie, as McCown has only been a head coach at the high school level.
So, in essence, Smith was a token hire following the lawsuit by former Dolphins head coach Brian Flores against the NFL. McDaniel replaces the aforementioned Flores.
On his “21st and Prime” podcast Sanders, had this to say this week:
Episode 2 is here! I sat back down with @saquon in the hot seat! 🔥 Check it out to see how well he knows how @CMC_22. @gillette #GillettePartner #LookGoodGameGood pic.twitter.com/HWEJFdoj6a
— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) February 8, 2022
No NFL Majority Owner Is Black: Rooney Rule, Enacted In 2003, Hasn’t Changed Much
The NFL has never had a Black majority owner of one of its 32 franchises; therefore, the dynamic has always been a situation where Black candidates are at the mercy of white employers, resulting in most qualified Black coaches getting overlooked. The Rooney Rule was supposed to help level the playing field by forcing teams to interview at least one minority candidate for all head coaching vacancies.
That could change with media mogul Byron Allen, who’s been encouraged by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and Patriots owner Robert Kraft, to bid on an NFL team when one comes on the market.
“NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft came to me in November of 2019 and asked me to take a good look at buying an NFL team. And after serious consideration, I strongly believe I can help effectuate positive changes throughout the league. And for that reason, I will be making a bid for the Denver Broncos.”
Byron Allen says he has 'Who's Who' of investors involved for his Broncos bid https://t.co/GIFj1YLG9p via @9NEWS #9sports
— Mike Klis (@mikeklis) February 9, 2022
NFL Owners Seem To Go Out Of Their Way Not To Hire Blacks: It Looks Obvious
Outside of the Mike Tomlin hire in 2007, when the team and ownership that the Rooney rule was founded by used it correctly, when has it been used properly? Or maybe owners are just not interested in hiring someone that doesn’t look like them. But as Deion said, you can’t force them to change who they are. They became wealthy using the connections and practices that they believe in. There have been 16 head coach openings the last two hiring cycles and only the Texans and Dolphins hired a Black coach.
Again, it goes back to you can’t tell them what to do. Yes, they’ll honor the Rooney Rule, but with no intention of hiring or even seriously considering the minority candidate.
How effective is the NFL's Rooney Rule?
@LZGranderson: “The issue isn't about how many minorities that you’re hiring. The issue is about that old boys network that gave Bill Belichick information that Brian Flores wasn’t privy to.”More on #TLG: https://t.co/ONepeRHYhA pic.twitter.com/Py8qYcrKMU
— The Recount (@therecount) February 4, 2022
Sanders reiterated just that.
“You cannot tell a man that’s very successful who and when they’re going to hire. You can’t tell Jamie Dukes what to cook in his own kitchen. You can’t tell (Barstool’s Adam Ferrone) what to put in his own closet. So how in the world are you going to tell a billionaire who and what ethnicity to hire. It’s not going to work.”
“If you want equality, you have to start from the top down. You don’t have equality starting from the middle up. You start from the top down. When you’re shooting for the coach, you’re in the middle. You’ve got to go to the top if you want equality.”
Sanders even mentioned places like Texas, Arizona, Georgia, and Mexico City as possible expansion cities.
Sanders always uses his huge platform to bring awareness and speak facts. He’s done wonders for HBCU football. His work has brought increased exposure, visibility and revenue. He makes valid points, now let’s see if the league does anything about it.
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This time last year, Russell Wilson was the big name among potential relocations by superstar players. With the exception of a few haters, Russ is still considered elite by most.
NFL analyst Ryan Clark says "Russell Wilson Is Not An All-Time Great QB" but we think he’s wrong, and here’s why.https://t.co/dGr2qTwiYL pic.twitter.com/MJh1zIVtI3
— The Shadow League (@ShadowLeague) February 9, 2022
NFL Offseason
Quarterbacks on the move seem to be the theme again. Aaron Rodgers, Deshaun Watson, and to a much lesser degree, Kyler Murray (who erased all things Cardinals from his Instagram and unfollowed the team) are names that are being discussed heavily on social media and sports shows.
Wilson is still the big fish and the most likely candidate to be moved. As The Shadow League has been predicting for over a year, his time in the Pacific Northwest may really be up. Especially after missing games due to injury for the first time in his illustrious career as the team stumbled to a 7-10 record. Rumors have swirled and some have already matched the future Hall of Famer with compatible options.
If You Love Him, Let Him Go | Russell Wilson Trade To The New Orleans Saints Is A Real Possibility https://t.co/rdKca4Eehp via @The Shadow League
— Dee Moore (@DeeMoor20141400) October 31, 2021
Everyone’s always looking for any hint of where a player could be traded to or signing with in free agency. Russ delivered that this week with a tweet, and social media went crazy.
Russ has long understood that the Seattle Seahawks as currently constructed can’t support his greatness properly. His squad’s roster of talent just isn’t on par with the rest of the division (Rams, Cardinals and Niners). It’s hard for Russ to keep cooking under those circumstances. As he progresses in age, he’s less willing to sacrifice his body to make up for a horrible defense and very shoddy offensive line.
Russ & The Washington Commanders: Game-Changer
Leaving Seattle for Washington would seem like a downgrade, but if you forget the past decade and focus on now, Washington is probably a team on the upswing as the Seahawks fall deeper into mediocrity. It would actually be a beneficial move for Russ and DC’s team.
Wilson plays in the ultra-tough NFC West. A division that sent three teams to the playoffs. In fact, since 2018, the Rams, who’ll be the home team in this week’s Super Sunday festivities, have now played in two Super Bowls.
Nasty Niners
The Niners have played in one and fought the Rams tooth and nail in the NFC Championship two weeks ago before succumbing 20-17.
Kyler’s Air Raid
The Cardinals were once 7-0 and atop the NFC Conference. Point blank, the NFC West is the best division in the NFL.
On Monday, in what could be looked at as a sign of frustration, star quarterback Kyler Murray deleted all Arizona Cardinals-affiliated from his Instagram. He also unfollowed the team as well. https://t.co/NLNwGVjAiR
— The Shadow League (@ShadowLeague) February 8, 2022
The NFC East, on the other hand, is pretty weak outside of Dallas, which choked in the playoffs. The Eagles made the playoffs, but that may have been more of an aberration than something that will hold. The Giants were a dumpster fire, and Washington regressed mightily after winning the division in 2020.
A move to D.C. doesn’t look so bad if Russ wants to take the easiest road back to the Super Bowl. Adding a player like Russ could change the complexion of the division overnight.
Seahawks QB Russell Wilson wants to explore his options this offseason, per @RapSheet pic.twitter.com/LJpiKntZ1F
— PFF (@PFF) January 16, 2022
Last offseason Wilson and the Seahawks were at a crossroads. He told them he wanted to stay in Seattle, but if a trade were to happen he’d only waive his no-trade clause to play for the Cowboys, Saints, Raiders or Bears.
Russell Wilson has told the Seahawks he wants to play in Seattle but, if a trade were considered, the only teams he would go to are the Cowboys, Saints, Raiders and Bears, his agent Mark Rodgers said to ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 25, 2021
Ever since the Seahawks drafted Wilson, the front office had total discretion and autonomy with personnel moves. In ten seasons Wilson has had three offensive coordinators, Darrell Bevell, Brian Schottenheimer and Shane Waldron. The offensive line issues and limited weaponry have been a problem in Seattle.
That was OK, when the defense was dominant and carried the name “Legion of Boom.” Since that legendary unit disbanded it has been a tougher road for Wilson despite his development as an elite passer. Russ probably should’ve had more input on things. In Washington he’d get that respect and be considered a savior of sorts for a franchise in dire need of quarterback and leadership.
Russell Wilson Is Fastest QB To 100 Wins | He’s Showing Us How To Win In Life – The Shadow League https://t.co/xMckjhOW0M
— Atlanta Black Star (@ATLBlackStar) October 6, 2021
Rumors of this pairing swirled even more during last weekend’s Pro Bowl, when Wilson and wife Ciara took pictures with Commanders star defensive lineman Jonathan Allen and his wife.
I’m sure everybody will be super rational about this. pic.twitter.com/SFnw6gy2C2
— michael phillips (@michaelpinRVA) February 5, 2022
The move prompted Kevin Sheehan of The Team 980 to say:
“I did talk to a few people in Vegas. And the only thing that I will tell you is something that I feel confident in, based on the sources, and that is Russell Wilson is not against being traded to Washington.”
Jonathan Allen answered “I hope so” to a fan’s tweet that asked, “Is Russ coming?”
Is Russ coming?
— I’m A Man I’m 40 (@Redskins_N_EERS) February 9, 2022
Commanders Have Talented Defense, Offensive Playmakers: Lack A Signal Caller
With the aforementioned Allen leading the defense, which also has 2020 No. 2 overall pick Chase Young returning from a torn ACL, Russ won’t spent most of his time waiting for his defense to make a stop.
Antonio Gibson, Terry McLaurin, and Logan Thomas are a few of the capable offensive weapons. Washington also has an offensive line that is an upgrade over the one that struggled to keep Wilson upright in Seattle. One other factor is offensive coordinator Scott Turner’s offense is a lot like what Russ ran his seven seasons under Darrell Bevell in Seattle.
While nothing is etched in stone, there’s a possibility the Commanders and Seahawks could swing a deal, as Washington has tradable assets and high draft picks to move if need be.
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Greg Robinson, a former offensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns, has been accused of possessing a large quantity of illegal drugs. According to Thibodaux, Louisiana, police, Robinson was pulled over during a normal traffic stop early Monday morning. Authorities said they smelled drugs in the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, searched the car and found what they suspected to be cocaine, crack cocaine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, Xanax and marijuana.
Former No. 2 overall pick Greg Robinson was arrested after being caught with over $120K worth of drugs in Louisiana.
This man was in possession of every kind of illegal drug known to mankind.. 😳https://t.co/M1ShT6T3R7
— NFL Memes (@NFL_Memes) February 10, 2022
The traffic stop led to multiple narcotics search warrants of properties owned or occupied by Robinson. Over $120,000 worth of drugs were seized, including: 3.16 pounds of suspected crystal methamphetamine, 2.22 pounds of suspected cocaine, 38.89 pounds of suspected marijuana, 4 grams of crack cocaine, 227 doses of suspected hydrocodone, 48 doses of suspected oxycodone, and 18 doses of alprazolam.
Robinson was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Felony) (2-Counts), Possession with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine (Felony), Possession with Intent to Distribute Hydrocodone (Felony), Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana (Felony) (2-Counts), Possession with Intent to Distribute Xanax (Alprazolam) (Felony), Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine (Felony).
NFL Players Greg Robinson and Quan Bray Arrested with 157 Pounds Of Marijuana
Police said they also seized a large assortment of drug paraphernalia, firearm magazines and ammunition and a small amount of cash.
This isn’t the first time Robinson was arrested in possession of large quantities of drugs. In Feb. 2020, Robinson was arrested near the Mexican border with 156 pounds of marijuana. Robinson was ultimately sentenced to five years’ probation in that case.
This latest arrest is likely a violation of that probation.
Robinson was booked into the Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex and is being held on a $315,000 bond.
Robinson was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft by the St. Louis Rams. He signed with the Detroit Lions in 2017, and was then signed to the Cleveland Browns in 2018 before becoming a free agent.
Sebastian Telfair Arrested On Gun, Ammunition And Drug Charges
He played collegiately at Auburn University, earning All-SEC honors, after starring at Thibodaux High School, where he was a two-time All-State lineman.
Robinson clearly has some issues that need to be addressed and some in his hometown of Thibodaux expressed their support following the arrest.
“Praying for you Greg,” a commenter said on Facebook. “I hope you get the help you need to get pass this evil. I’m not here to judge you. I will definitely say prayers for you young man keep your head up you’re not the first and you won’t be the last but you can change.”
“Maybe this is what it’s going to take to save his life,” said another. “God allows things to happen for our own good. … I hope he realizes that one day.”
It will be interesting to see how prosecutors decide to handle this case. Will he be viewed as another Black athlete that “wasted his opportunity” and now should be punished severely? Or will they see him as an individual that has a problem, needs help, and can be rehabilitated?
Ultimately the question is who is worthy of leniency, mercy and humane treatment in the eyes of the justice system? For men like Robinson, that answer to that question is often not them.
Trae Young’s father, Rayford Young, has a lot to say.
When it comes to his son, the elder Young wants you to know that Trae is the boogeyman in the Eastern Conference, and the moves made by other teams, in his opinion, validate that.
Y’all can think or say what you want. But my son SHOOK UP THE WHOLE EASTERN CONFERENCE after last seasons Playoff run……Got every team scrambling! All good though, he’s just 23……JUST GETTING STARTED. That’s a PROMISE🏀❤️💯@NBA @ATLHawks #NBATradeDeadline
— Ray Young (@rayfordyoung) February 10, 2022
“Y’all can think or say what you want. But my son SHOOK UP THE WHOLE EASTERN CONFERENCE after last seasons Playoff run……Got every team scrambling! All good though, he’s just 23……JUST GETTING STARTED. That’s a PROMISE”
Trae is a young juggernaut in the NBA. Pun intended.
Nicknamed “Ice Trae,” the Oklahoma University prospect was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 2018 NBA draft with the fifth pick. He was later traded with a future first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks for the draft rights to Luka Dončić.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jOqadWtopg
The point guard is the first player in NBA history to notch at least 20 points and seven assists in each of the first 13 playoff games of his career, and he’s had at least 30 points in seven of those.
During the 2018-2019 season, in the Hawks’ third game, Young finished with a season-high 35 points and 11 assists in a 133–111 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
He then broke his season-high with 49 points, with 16 assists in a high-scoring 168–161 quadruple-overtime loss to the Chicago Bulls.
‘Idols Become Your Rivals’| Kevin Durant Has Known Trae Young Since He Was 10, So It’s All Love
Fast-forward to the 2019-2020 season, and Young was selected for his first NBA All-Star Game. Then Young recorded 48 points and 13 assists in 47 minutes for a 140–135 double-overtime win over the New York Knicks.
Young officially became the new Knicks killer, a la Reggie Miller but with way more malice at being the bad guy. Knicks fans have dedicated street protestations toward Young after sucking all the air out of the historic Madison Square Garden.
During the 2020-2021 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Young put up 21 points during Game 7 to lead the Hawks past the Philadelphia 76ers. The win gave the Hawks their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2015, and undeniably Trae Young’s fingerprints were all over the advancement.
Trae Young Became A Superstar NBA Villain Last Postseason | Will Ice Trae Thaw Out Or Ball Out?
Although the Hawks ultimately lost the Eastern Conference Finals to the Milwaukee Bucks, who became NBA champions, Trae Young cemented his new image as the boogeyman of the East.
After the Hawks won the first game of the Eastern Conference Finals, Young’s father made it clear that his son was the factor by dropping 48 points and 11 assists in the Hawks’ 116-113 win.
Trae Young Became A Superstar NBA Villain Last Postseason | Will Ice Trae Thaw Out Or Ball Out?
“Humbly speaking, I’ve seen it all before,” Rayford said to 11Alive. “But that doesn’t say I don’t get excited when I’m watching it. I’m just sitting there stressing, just hoping they win the game.”
He followed up the sentiment recently with another tweet showing his support comes from his paternal pride in his son.
You right but the people that know me will tell you…,.,,I RIDE OR DIE for my son 24/7 on this app😤😤😤 but again like you said. It’s a DAD THING 💯 https://t.co/Ga8om6b8xH
— Ray Young (@rayfordyoung) February 10, 2022
“You right but the people that know me will tell you…,.,,I RIDE OR DIE for my son 24/7 on this app but again like you said. It’s a DAD THING.”
Young’s Dad feels that the Trae Young effect is on the game with moves made around the Eastern Conference.
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The Pittsburgh Steelers, one of the benchmark franchises in the NFL and creators of the controversial Rooney Rule, are set to interview current ESPN Monday Night Football analyst and former NFL front office executive Louis Riddick for their vacant GM position.
Riddick is well liked and well respected around the league, and that means something in the NFL. Riddick last worked in the league in 2013 with the Philadelphia Eagles, as their director of pro personnel. A native of Pittsburgh, Riddick played his college football for the home state Pitt Panthers.
The power of belief. It’s real pic.twitter.com/dwILrlP7Ag
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) October 18, 2019
Riddick played six seasons in the NFL for three different teams. Upon retirement he joined the Washington staff as scout (2001-2004) and director of pro personnel from 2005-2007.
He joined the Eagles as a scout in 2008, he also held the title of assistant director of pro personnel (2009). He was promoted to director in 2010. His rise up the ladder was swift and effective, becoming the Eagles’ director of player personnel from 2010-2013.
His insight and analysis during ESPN’s football coverage is proof that he is in tune with every aspect of the league and is a forward thinker but also rooted in the traditional principles of the game.
It’s widely believed that Riddick would be a home run hire, as he’s smart, inquisitive, knowledgeable and savvy. He’d work well with Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, who hasn’t had a losing season in 15 years in Steel City.
Riddick’s brain will be picked heavily, as the Steelers have some huge decision to make at QB and other key positions during this upcoming draft.
Last month Riddick raved to The Associated Press about his broadcasting job but also mentioned he’d be willing to listen to interested teams about GM jobs.
“I have one of the great broadcasting jobs in America. I have always been very up front, starting with (ESPN President) Jimmy Pitaro that this is not a situation where I’m going, I want to get back to the NFL. If teams call and want to talk to me about being a general manager, then I have a definite interest in that kind of thing because it’s always been a career goal of mine, and it’s always been a challenge that I have been interested in. And if it were something that was a great fit for them and me, then sure, then we would take it down the road and see how far it would go.”
Steelers are interviewing Louis Riddick for their open GM job, per @RapSheet pic.twitter.com/tBgRiKmt6V
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) February 8, 2022
The Rooney Rule, which was enacted in 2003, was designed to bring awareness of qualified minority candidates for NFL head coaching vacancies by requiring that all teams interview at least one minority candidate during a search.
While the rule itself hasn’t borne much fruit as it pertains to Blacks becoming head coaches, it worked the way it was supposed to in 2007. That’s when the Steelers hired then-34-year-old Mike Tomlin after his-one season as the Vikings defensive coordinator. He wowed the Rooneys so much in his interview that they chose him over then longtime offensive line coach Russ Grimm.
Ken Whisenhunt was considered the heir apparent until Tomlin interviewed, so while the Rooneys debated on who to hire, Whisenhunt took the Arizona Cardinals job. Ironically, Tomlin beat both one season later in the Super Bowl as the Steelers beat the Cardinals.
The #Steelers are scheduled to interview ESPN commentator Louis Riddick for their vacant GM job, sources say. He last worked in the NFL as the #Eagles Director of Pro Personnel in 2013.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 8, 2022
No one knows if Riddick will get the job, but he has a shot, and that’s because of what happened in 2007 with this same franchise as the Rooney Rule did what it was designed to do. Can lightning strike twice? This time in the Steelers front office?
During the offseason there were rumors of former GM Kevin Colbert retiring, and Riddick’s name ended up on a short list of possible replacements.
Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot wrote this week:
https://twitter.com/renegadeadam/status/1491058557210423296?s=21
“Sticking with Pittsburgh roots but Riddick is qualified to be an NFL GM regardless of geography. He’s considered one of the smartest people on the TV side of things, but he has an accomplished in-league background too. Breaking into the league as a scout in 2001, he worked his way up to becoming the Eagles’ Director of Player Personnel from 2010-2013.”
Kozora added that working at ESPN has given Riddick,”the chance to talk to players and coaches around the league in pre-production meetings, picking their brains and gathering insight few would be able to do. He’s garnered interest on a near annual basis, interviewing for the Houston Texans, Detroit Lions, among other teams.”
Riddick grew up near Philadelphia but played his college ball at Pitt. His cousin Tim Lewis was the Steelers’ DB coach and eventual defensive coordinator in the late ’90s to early 2000s. With their history and stability, the Steelers would surely be an attractive enough job to entice Riddick to leave the booth.
Louis Riddick is a great football mind.
He’s a Pittsburgh guy.
And I think he’s stayed in good enough shape where he could also rotate in defensively in sub-packages.
Much like Tomlin did, he should interview VERY well. #Steelers
— Mike Nicastro (@MikedUpSports1) February 8, 2022
There are two completely different levels of stress when it comes to talking on television versus constructing and managing an NFL franchise
It’s been a while since he’s been in the league, but his ESPN job has kept him right on the doorstep of a return if the right situation comes along.
Good luck in the #ProBowl!@CamHeyward | @_TJWatt | @ohthatsNajee22 | @Juiceup__3 pic.twitter.com/Tl0YRSkDGU
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) February 6, 2022
Riddick has his shot, now watch him work.
Washington Commanders star defensive lineman Jonathan Allen tweeted on Wednesday that he would like to have dinner with his “grandad, Hitler, and Michael Jackson.” Allen was doing an “Ask Me Anything” thread and was asked who are the three people living or dead he would have dinner with. His grandfather and Michael Jackson are easy enough to explain, but Hitler is extremely problematic. Allen had to backtrack and took down the tweet.
“He’s a military genius and I love military tactics but honestly I would want to pick his brain as to why he did what he did. I’m also assuming that the people I’ve chosen have to answer all my questions honestly.”
Jonathan Allen doesn’t know why Hitler did what he did pic.twitter.com/WCOhTD7R2x
— Tim Ber (@Bim_Binzer) February 9, 2022
Allen faced immediate backlash over including Hitler, and had to apologize.
Early I tweeted something that probably hurt people and I apologize about what I said. I didn’t express properly what I was trying to say and I realize it was dumb!
— Jonathan Allen (@jonallen93_) February 9, 2022
This is the danger you face as a public figure in the social media era if you choose to participate in an AMA.
Allen likely isn’t alone in wanting to understand why Hitler committed the atrocities he did. The fact that he wanted to “pick his brain as to why” suggests he would like to go deeper than genocide and racism.
There are countless documentaries that details Hitler’s actions.
But if you’re Allen you have to know certain figures in a public forum like Twitter are radioactive. Hitler being atop that list. No matter how you try and explain the why, it’s a lost cause. Despite the idea that it’s an AMA, Twitter and social media in general, are not the platforms for nuance or context.
The good news for Allen is this happened during Super Bowl and NBA trade deadline week. There is so much going on in sports, this likely won’t register in a major way for him.
Allen also responded to a fan who said his comments were hurtful … writing in a tweet to the person, “I’m sorry I offended you that definitely was not my attention, I was just answering a question.”
This is a bit of a double-edged sword for athletes. Fans say they want athletes to be authentic and honest, Allen got on social media to engage with fans and this was the result. A reasonable question was asked, and he gave an honest answer.
Would it have been better if he responded with his granddad, Gandhi and Mother Teresa? It certainly wouldn’t have caused any backlash. But would it have been honest?
This isn’t to condone Hitler or the idea of wanting to have dinner with him. But perhaps there needs to be some middle ground between honesty and performative public social media outrage.
Allen was drafted by Washington in 2017 and earned his first Pro Bowl selection this past season.
It’s happened. The much-talked-about James Harden for Ben Simmons trade has gone down. The Brooklyn Nets send disgruntled James Harden and Paul Milsap to the Philadelphia 76ers in exchange for the equally disgruntled Ben Simmons, Seth Curry, Andre Drummond, two first-round picks. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith thinks Brooklyn was the clear-cut winner. But it’s not that simple.
“I see Brooklyn as the clear winner in this deal,” said Smith on “NBA Today.”
This could potentially go down as the worst day in the career of Daryl Morey. pic.twitter.com/As8IZaywJM
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) February 10, 2022
Harden was unhappy with the inability to be on the floor consistently with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving due to injuries and Irving’s vaccine status. His numbers are down across the board. His eFG% and TS% of 49 and 59 are the worst since his rookie year. He is a +3.3 in EPM the third-worst mark in his career.
He checked out mentally the last few weeks and the writing was on the wall. This is the second team Harden has forced his way out of, and he will now team with Joel Embiid in Philadelphia for another crack at a deep playoff run.
Brooklyn, meanwhile, gets a 25-year-old dynamic 6-foot-11 ball-handler, passer, and finisher who is a two-time all-defensive selection. Simmons is also under contract for three more seasons after this one. He hasn’t played all season after trying to force a trade last summer following a poor playoff performance. His unwillingness to shoot is well documented, and he has cited mental health concerns as a reason for not playing this season.
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne is reporting that Simmons will continue to work with his therapist to prepare for the season, and he’s already spoken to Durant.
Ben Simmons will continue to work with his therapist to get mentally ready to play in Brooklyn. “It’s a work in progress,” according to one source close to him. But he’s thrilled with the change of scenery and has already spoken to Kevin Durant. https://t.co/rVpErjw5Oa
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) February 10, 2022
Simmons’ agent and Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul said:
“We’ve got work to do to get him back to play, but it’s a great step in the right direction.”
What a crazy day, and that’s just one trade. Embiid had a little fun on Twitter after the trade was announced.
.@JoelEmbiid tweeted this photo after the reported Ben Simmons-James Harden trade. pic.twitter.com/943Z1uMT1Y
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 10, 2022
The trade is a “win” for both sides.
Sixers President Daryl Morey fills Simmons’ empty roster spot with his former Rockets MVP, who despite down numbers was selected to his 10th All-Star Game and is averaging 22.5 points, 10.2 assists, and eight rebounds per game.
The fit with Embiid might be a little awkward at first. Embiid likes to play in the post and Harden is a spread pick-and-roll guy. Not to mention defensively Harden needs a switch-heavy scheme, which the Sixers could provide to some extent.
Late in games having a brilliant isolation player like Harden will be helpful for Embiid and the offense.
Brooklyn gave up all of its draft capital and Jarrett Allen and Caris LeVert last season to acquire Harden. It also meant tying their future to max salary players, two of which are over 32, and the third who is 29 and has been unreliable the past few seasons.
Durant has a four-year extension that kicks in after this season. Paired with the 25-year-old Simmons and his deal, general manager Sean Marks has a more manageable cap sheet and a young star that can get better. Irving’s extension was taken off the table due to his vaccine stance, and he could become a free agent at the end of this season or opt into another year.
Either way, the Nets have some flexibility and two first-round picks to replenish their draft capital.
On the court Simmons immediately helps a team that is ranked 22nd in aDRTG. At his size he can switch one through five and he can help the Nets in transition with his ability to rebound and race up the court. He’s an elite passer and would be an effective roller to the rim.
Curry adds spacing with his shooting, and Drummond provides size and rebounding on a thin front line.
Given all of that, plus the fact that Morey will have to pay Harden, a supermax extension this coming offseason, the Nets are better off in the long term and are the overall “winner” in the trade.
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The NBA’s Top 15 Greatest Coaches list was recently released, and, unsurprisingly, Phil Jackson, an 11-time NBA champion as a coach with the Jordan and Pippen Bulls and then Shaq & Kobe Lakers and two-time title winner as a player with the New York Knicks in the 1970s, is on it.
Jackson, aka the Zen Master, was a revolutionary coach in that he stressed the mental aspects of the game and engaged in constant psychological warfare with his own players and the opposing team. He was renowned for taking incredible talent, cultivating its development and turning that talent into a championship player.
After ripping off two three-peats with the Bulls, Phil bounced to L.A. and led the Lakers back to glory, somehow helping to transform a contentious relationship between Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal into the greatest twosome to ever grace the hardwood in the same building at the same time.
Despite the internal conflicts and egos that kept the Lakers from four-peating after already three-peating, Jackson was masterful at massaging egos, challenging his superstars and producing championship results. His unorthodox coaching methods, revolutionary ways of keeping his teams hungry, are the stuff of legend.
Hall of Fame center Shaquille O’Neal spoke this week on “NBA on TNT” about his experience of playing under the tutelage of Jackson.
“Phil was the one who gave me the blueprint on how to be more dominant than I already was. He also gave me the blueprint on how to be a Champion. What I loved about Phil is he was very, very fair. What I also loved about Phil is he was a player’s coach. The way I played and the way I got played, he could tell the days I was banged up and he had enough respect to say, ‘OK, I’m not gonna press you hard today, ride the bike for 20 minutes but I need 30 from you big fella.’ From being with him, I made up the quote ‘if the general doesn’t panic, the troops don’t panic.’
I played for a lot of coaches where it gets real tight, they start panicking, but Phil would always just look at us and say I’m not gonna bail you out. … He would explain to us like men, rather than yelling and crying.”
Phil was a maestro when it came to creating team chemistry. He was also incredibly flexible with his ability to manage enormous personalities, supposed malcontents, high-priced veterans and get them to buy into a championship system. Jackson meshed rebels like Dennis Rodman and temperamental stars like Scottie Pippen with icons like Jordan and made it work to perfection, regardless of what kind of soap opera drama was happening behind the scenes.
In his book “Eleven Rings: the Soul of Success,” which is named for his 11 championship rings, Jackson says:
“I’ve always felt that there is a strong connection between music and basketball. The game is inherently rhythmic in nature and requires the same kind of selfless, nonverbal communication you find in the best jazz combos.”
Jackson asked the players to set their egos aside, even during charged internal conflicts. He knew that winning basketball teams were built on strong relationships. Relationships that strengthen when tested with internal conflict instead of faltering.
The key to any solid franchise is leadership, and regardless of what transpired with ownership and contracts and the delicate relationship between corporate and the players, the Zen Master kept his team razor sharp.
There was more drama than an episode of “Euphoria” in Los Angeles, but it was also the greatest show on earth with Kobe and Shaq totally dominating the league, dissing each other on rap tracks, arguing, hating and demolishing squads with some of the most riveting, showtime hoops that have ever been played.
Through it all, even after Shaq left and Phil won two more rings with Kobe, the constant was the Zen Master. There are more than a few people who would consider him the GOAT NBA coach.
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There is trouble in the Plains.
Recently, Auburn football coach Bryan Harsin has been in the spotlight for the wrong reasons.
However, now his personal life is taking center stage. Harsin is rumored to be having an affair with his assistant Clesi Crochet.
Well this tweet didn't age well for Bryan Harsin. 🤣🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/PjOaSzIqcF
— Barry Suggs (@BarrySuggs1) February 4, 2022
Harsin’s wife Kes took to Instagram to let the world know she is standing by her man.
Kes Harsin, wife of Bryan Harsin, on Instagram: pic.twitter.com/BgfX091C7J
— Christian Clemente (@CClemente247) February 4, 2022
“Rumors are carried by haters, spread by fools, and accepted by idiots.”
However, Harsin is feeling the heat based on the Tigers’ performance, a 6-7 season. Now Harsin could potentially be one-and-done.
Before leading the Auburn Tigers, Harsin coached the Boise State University Broncos from the 2014 season through the 2020 season. He posted a 64-17 record. He began his head coaching career at Arkansas State University for the 2013 season.
Amid the allegations, the university has now implemented a new policy for employees centered on cooperation with investigations.
It would sure be helpful, if you're Auburn, to have a document that compelled an employee to cooperate with an investigation so how nice it must be for one to magically appear with an effective date of *checks notes*
Yesterday pic.twitter.com/S0D2OsGNNA
— Richard🇬🇾Johnson (human) (@RJ_cfb) February 9, 2022
The policy went into effect this past Tuesday, Feb. 8. The document’s title is the “Employee Duty to Cooperate” policy. The policy statement contained in the document seems directly tied to the potential allegations lobbed against Harsin.
“Auburn University, Auburn University at Montgomery, Alabama Cooperative Extension System, and Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station (‘University’) employees have a duty to cooperate with university investigations and reviews.”
The record also reflects a down year for Auburn’s recruiting, while staff like coordinators are exiting after just one season. Former coordinator Mike Bobo is now back at Georgia, Derek Mason is now at Oklahoma State, and Austin Davis didn’t even last two months.
Freshman defensive lineman Lee Hunter recently announced his transfer from Auburn to UCF this past offseason and has expressed his uneasiness with the program.
We’re I’m from you got two2️⃣chances to make it#big2️⃣#committed110% pic.twitter.com/PNs7ich5OS
— Lee_Hunter7 (@The_Fridge7) January 20, 2022
Hunter, who did not record any stats during the 2021 season for Auburn, is rated the No. 21 defensive lineman in the class of 2021. According to reports, Hunter was Auburn’s second-highest prospect to enroll last year and was ranked as the No. 81 overall player nationally in the 2021 signing class.
Also, quarterback Bo Nix entered the transfer portal and then committed to play for Dan Lanning at Oregon. Nix is a legacy quarterback.
According to reports, Auburn President Jay Gogue recently spoke on the situation during a board of trustees meeting.
“There’s been a lot of rumors and a lot of allegations made about our football program, and I just want you to know that we’re involved and trying to separate fact from fiction and we’ll keep you posted and make the appropriate decisions at the right time.”
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If Auburn had to terminate Harsin’s contract, the university would have to pay him. According to reports, the terms of Harsin’s agreement say firing Harsin without cause means the university would owe him a guaranteed 70 percent of the remainder of his contract.
Harsin made $5 million in his first year, a salary that was set to increase by $100,000 annually beginning Jan. 1 of this year. He would be owed 50 percent of the buyout (about $9.1 million) within 30 days, followed by four annual, equal payments of about $2.275 million to cover the rest.
BREAKING: Auburn head coach Bryan Harsin expected to be relieved of duties for getting relieved on duty. pic.twitter.com/NJFsdyPnIw
— Angry Vol Mob (@angryvolmob) February 4, 2022
However, not all feel that Harsin’s tenure was bad for Auburn. Graduating safety Smoke Monday took to Instagram to show his support.
“Harsin is a hell of a coach that wants to win,” Monday posted, who has entered the NFL draft, posted on Instagram. “But as kids we try our best to out-grow where we came from, but we need people that didn’t grow up the way we grow up to help us.”
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The trade deadline has come and gone without the Lakers trading Russell Westbrook.
We all know the Lakers have struggled, but now it’s getting to the point where talking heads are basically accusing the team of packing it in, which has led to a wider debate on the state of the league, its star players, the culture being set by those players and how the owners don’t like this age of empowerment one bit.
Brian Windhorst, Stephen A. Smith and Kendrick Perkins appeared on “First Take” to discuss the matter. Before Thursday’s James Harden for Ben Simmons trade, what happens to Russ was the main attraction as far as trade deadline news is concerned.
While trades were being discussed, Windhorst suggested that the Lakers need to make a move to get the team “reinvigorated.”
After the @Lakers loss to Portland tonight, I'm speechless. No words can describe how I'm feeling.
— Earvin Magic Johnson (@MagicJohnson) February 10, 2022
Stephen A. Smith took the conversation off its original course and alluded to the upcoming collective bargaining agreement, while taking a shot at NBA players and vouching for the owners.
Stephen A. Smith:
“The Los Angeles Lakers are an unmitigated disaster. They are a mess. They are going to cost people their livelihoods and in the midst of all of that, players who are getting paid don’t deserve to get paid, but they’ll get their money anyway. That’s why the next round of collective bargaining negotiations between the owners and players … is going to be must-see TV in terms of us talking about it, because these owners are coming for them.”
SAS didn’t stop there. He explained why the owners should be coming for the players who should be more committed to doing their jobs, in his opinion.
“The fact that you got guys taking time off. The fact that you have guys who don’t want to follow rules and regulations, the fact that you got guys who are being lackadaisical at their discretion. Picking when they want to play and how they want to play instead of being committed to doing their job. The owners are coming for them, and I call it down the middle, the way that I see it. Some of these dudes … if the players end up getting the short end of the stick, they would have deserved it, because some of the shenanigans simply can’t be tolerated. It’s bad for the game.”
Smith went on to blast the Lakers for losing to a Portland Trail Blazers team that just traded away CJ McCollum and was missing franchise star Damian Lillard and some other key pieces.
CJ McCollum to the Pelicans – What grade would you give this trade? https://t.co/kFkF8lFZUe
— The Shadow League (@ShadowLeague) February 9, 2022
Not sure how these Lakers losses tie into players taking too many liberties with their power and not putting the best product on the floor for the fans, because LeBron James and Anthony Davis played on Wednesday night. And Russ Westbrook didn’t play, but from all accounts, nobody in the hoops world thinks he should even be on the floor, so that’s a win-win.
Then Stephen A. went after LeBron for his postgame interview where a frustrated King James said after the 107-105 loss to Portland on Wednesday night, that “I’m literally tired as hell right now. I just want to get some wine, get into bed and wake up tomorrow.”
“When has he ever said that in his career?” Stephen A asked.
“Man, if that doesn’t sound like a team with a star who thinks ‘this season is a wash, we ain’t going nowhere, it’s over,’ I don’t know what the hell does.”
That was some fancy footwork by Stephen A. Smith. He ingratiates himself further with the billionaire owners by going on a tirade and basically reinforcing every stereotype about the current crop of Black NBA players. Then he gives a co-sign to the owners (who are greedier and richer than everyone) to basically go for the jugular when the current CBA expires in 2023-24. His entire tirade implies that the players are no more than entitled brats who need to be put in their places.
This will be an interesting dynamic to keep an eye on, as Stephen A. Smith has let it be known that he’s going to back the owners in this situation and somehow blame the players for not giving enough.
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Coming into the 2021-2022 college basketball season, all the talk was about the three freshman bigs (Chet Holmgren, Paolo Banchero and Jabari Smith), who many believe were the only players vying to be the top overall selection in the June draft.
That’s not the case anymore as Purdue Boilermakers super sophomore Jaden Ivey has popped on the scene. The 6’4″ combo guard arguably has been the best player in college basketball this season. With averages of 17.7 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game, on 48% shooting and 38% from three, the dynamic playmaker looks NBA-ready.
🤖 Been a machine lately. pic.twitter.com/zG6p0MgBxR
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) February 9, 2022
In Tuesday’s marquee matchup with Illinois, Ivey went for 26 points, six assists and four rebounds; 22 of those points came after as the Boilermakers pulled away from the Fighting Illini (84-68) to complete the season sweep. His play drew praise from Illini head coach Brad Underwood, who raved about Ivey in his postgame interview.
.@IveyJaden tonight:
♨️ 26 PTS
♨️ 10-17 FG
♨️ 6 ASTBig buckets. pic.twitter.com/Mk9xF0qMNa
— NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) February 9, 2022
“One thing Matt’s done of late is to quit screwing around, get the ball to Ivey and everyone get out of the way,” Underwood said. “Anyone who doesn’t know what pros looks like, that’s what they look like.”
These type performances have become the norm for Ivey. The Boilermakers are currently ranked No. 3 (21-3 overall record and 10-3 Big Ten). One attribute that Ivey routinely displays is his composure. That was the case against Illinois, when he exploded for 22 second-half points. Purdue head coach Matt Painter talked about the importance of Ivey’s play to an NCAA Tournament run.
⏰: 11:43 2nd
Purdue has made 8 of its last 9 shots and lead 59-49 with Ivey heading to the FT line.
The sophomore has 14 points, 6 assists, 5 rebs in a fantastic all-around game. pic.twitter.com/4k6Eizu2ot
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) February 5, 2022
“He just let it come to him tonight. He made great decisions and a couple of those pull-ups are shots he hasn’t even really taken this year. He’s come a long way since the start of the season.”
Ivey is a three-level scorer, who’s also very adept at passing the ball. It’s his cool, calm demeanor that jumps off the screen when you watch him play.
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Ivey has shown an innate ability to lead as a sophomore, always motivating teammates and calling them out as well. What makes it work is that he also accepts the criticism from teammates. The game has slowed down for the talented soon-to-be very rich guard.
“For great players, especially talented players, the game will slow down at times,” Painter said. “When he goes fast and attacks, it’s gotta be in space. Other times, he’s doing a good job of boxing his man out and playing with poise. He’s learning when he can play off one foot or two feet. He stepped up.”
Ivey’s Parents Were Talented Notre Dame Athletes: Mom Is The Head Coach Of Her Alma Mater
Jaden’s parents are Niele Ivey and Javin Hunter. His mom was the point guard who helped former Irish head coach Muffet McGraw grab her first national title in 2001. She scored over 1,400 points in 132 games. She played five seasons in the WNBA before becoming a college coach. After 14 seasons under McGraw, she was handpicked to lead the program. After going 10-10 in her first season, Ivey got the Fighting Irish to sitting at 18-5. She was primary recruiter for former All-Americans turned WNBA stars Skylar Diggins-Smith, Jewell
Lloyd, Jackie Young and Arike Ogunbowale. All tough gritty guards like herself.
God’s plan🍀🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/mmmYSyoSHE
— Niele Ivey (@IrishCoachIvey) April 23, 2020
His dad Javin Hunter is a former University of Notre Dame football player who played five seasons in the NFL with the Ravens and Niners. He was recruited to ND, by none other than former Irish wide receivers coach Urban Meyer.
Ayyyyyy 😍🤩🙌🏾💙@IveyJaden https://t.co/xfErwftFDK
— Niele Ivey (@IrishCoachIvey) December 20, 2019
The athletic genes are obvious, and Ivey has shown on many occasions this isn’t a fluke; he’s a bonafide option to go No. 1 in the June draft.
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Serena Williams has done many photo shoots and commercials. But none tops doing a Super Sunday ad. Williams, who is famous for her backhand and forehand, but also her popularity among the masses, will appear in a not yet fully released commercial during Sunday’s Super Bowl.
Who's ready for Super Bowl Sunday? 😍@SerenaWilliams is! She will be taking over TV screens in her epic @MichelobULTRA commercial alongside Peyton Manning, @alexmorgan13 and other top athletes during the big game.
— TENNIS (@Tennis) February 9, 2022
For Williams, it’s a dream come true, and she told USA Today those athletes have a “vision board” for themselves as it pertains to public appearances and being in a Super Bowl commercial is at the top.
“Well, growing up as an athlete, it’s like, it’s the creme de la creme. You have a vision board, being in a Super Bowl commercial is like first on the board,” Williams said.
Back on the big screen 📺
@Serenawilliams will be starring in Michelob Ultra’s Super Bowl 56 commercial!— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) February 9, 2022
Although the full version of the Michelob Ultra commercial hasn’t been released, a jovial Williams gave a sneak peak of what’s to come during Sunday’s big game. She’s joined by Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning, golf superstar Brooks Koepka, NBA All-Star Jimmy Butler, soccer star Alex Morgan, rising hip-hop and R&B star Becky G and actor Steve Buscemi.
Did we mention it’s organic? @bkoepka is ready for Sunday. Which flavor of Michelob ULTRA Organic Seltzer are you grabbing for the game? #ULTRABOWL pic.twitter.com/5ugVrsy4wr
— Michelob ULTRA (@MichelobULTRA) February 10, 2022
With the commercial scene set in a bowling alley, the tennis GOAT walks in with everybody looking stunned as she makes her entrance. Buscemi proceeds to shout, “game time.”
For Williams, who hasn’t competed in seven months after retiring during the first round of Wimbledon, it looked like some refreshing fun.
Williams was quick to give praise to Buscemi during her interview as well.
“I’ve watched a lot of Steve’s work. Obviously ‘Fargo’ was a big one, but there was this movie called ‘Twenty Bucks’ that not many people have heard of. That’s actually when I first started watching Steve and I’ve been watching him ever since.”
Williams Training To Rejoin Tour: Still Searching For That Elusive 24th Grand Slam
Last time we saw Williams on the tennis court, she was bowing out of Wimbledon with an injured leg. The seven-time champion at the All-England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club has been hunting that 24th-career Grand Slam title since 2017. Ironically, her 23rd title win came at the Australian Open while eight weeks pregnant with her daughter, Olympia. The next grand slam title will tie her with Margaret Court.
We're heartbroken for you, Serena.
Our seven-time singles champion is forced to retire from The Championships 2021 through injury#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/vpcW1UN78s
— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) June 29, 2021
When asked about her returning to the tour, Williams expressed excitement to be back on the court and ramping up her training and fitness. But she needs to get her body in top physical condition before getting back into intense match play.
“I’m back to training, which is exciting. So I’m just trying to make sure I’m getting a little more fit training-wise, just getting my body and muscles used to the tennis training, because that’s totally different from just regular training. And then we’ll see what happens, no pressure.”
Tennis needs Serena Williams. Grand slams aren’t the same, and she’s the biggest draw in the sport. Having accomplished so much as a tennis player and person, believe it or not, Williams still has a few things to check off the list and her Super Bowl ad appearance is one of them.
New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara might be in some serious legal trouble over his alleged assault of a man last Sunday in Las Vegas during Pro Bowl weekend. Las Vegas police informed the NFL prior to the Pro Bowl, in which Kamara played, that he was a suspect. Assistant Sheriff John McGrath says Las Vegas Metropolitan Police allowed Kamara to play because they needed his cooperation in identifying other participants in the assault.
“We got in touch with NFL security about 10 o’clock in the morning and let them know that he (Kamara) was a suspect in the case and they located him and he was already on the field,” McGrath told the Current. “So they contacted him and he agreed to meet with us after the game. And so that’s just the way we did it since he was cooperating.”
The NFL confirms they were made aware of the situation and that police wanted to speak with him following the game.
“We were notified that law enforcement wanted to speak to him after the game regarding an incident. There was no arrest warrant at the time and he said he would speak to law enforcement which he did.”
Some questions arise. Did the NFL know what the police wanted to question Kamara for? You have to imagine they asked and were told. If so, was assault not serious enough to hold him out of the game? Or did the NFL decide they didn’t want to deal with the PR hit before the game and instead opted for it after?
The NFL’s biggest showcase and the largest viewed sporting event in America, the Super Bowl, happens this Sunday. Coincidence?
Kamara allegedly put his hand on a man in the elevator, who shoved it off — and then a fight ensued. Kamara punched the man repeatedly, fracturing his orbital bone. The man was then knocked unconscious by Kamara and his friends, who allegedly proceeded to kick the man before they left.
Video surveillance does show Kamara punching a man, Darnell Greene, several times and Kamara’s associates stomping the victim. Video also shows that Greene was speaking to a woman before this confrontation occurred.
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When Kamara was questioned by police he said he thought Greene was running away after doing something to his group, and admitted that he chased down Greene and punched him several times.
Kamara was originally supposed to appear in court this past Monday, but his hearing has been pushed back to March 8th.
The legal system needs to run its course and then Kamara will likely face league discipline. He could be facing an indefinite suspension. According to the league’s conduct policy:
The Saints have a new head coach in Dennis Allen and are looking for a new starting quarterback. Will they be looking for a new running back too?
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Unbeaten WBC and IBF welterweight world champion Errol “The Truth” Spence Jr. and WBA welterweight world champion Yordenis Ugas will finally face each other.
The welterweight championship unification showdown is on Saturday, April 16, from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, headlining a Premier Boxing Champions event.
The bout will be Spence’s third at the home of the Dallas Cowboys, which is near his hometown of DeSoto; he defeated Mikey Garcia and Danny Garcia (no relation) at the venue in 2019 and 2020, respectively.
Errol Spence Jr. has announced that his welterweight unification bout against Yordenis Ugas will take place April 16 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. pic.twitter.com/VFxwRwwKc6
— ESPN Ringside (@ESPNRingside) February 8, 2022
Spence-Ugas pits two of the best welterweight champions in the sport in a high-stakes unification match. Both men are coming off impressive victories over elite welterweights at the top class of the division.
Spence defeated former champions Danny Garcia and Shawn Porter in his past two fights, while Ugas scored a thrilling upset victory over future Hall of Famer Manny Pacquiao.
Spence, who will put his WBC and IBF titles on the line, will be making his second comeback from serious injury. The 31-year-old was involved in a single-car accident in October 2019 that hospitalized him for days and sidelined him for months.
When Errol Spence had his car crash, he faced Danny Garcia in his first fight back. Now, after a serious eye injury scrapped his dream fight vs Manny Pacquiao, he’s jumping straight into a unification with the man who beat Pacquiao – Yordenis Ugas.
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) February 8, 2022
A planned August 2021 fight with Manny Pacquiao was derailed after he underwent surgery to repair a detached retina.
Ugas (27-4, 12 KOs) stepped in on 11 days’ notice and scored the upset of Pacquiao via unanimous decision. Now, Ugas will defend his WBA title in a three-belt unification.
The 35-year-old Cuban and Spence have one common opponent: Shawn Porter.
Spence defeated Porter in a brutal September 2019 fight via split decision. Six months earlier, Ugas dropped a controversial split decision to Porter.
Spence (27-0, 21 KOs) is rated No. 2 at 147 pounds by ESPN; Ugas is one spot behind. Terence Crawford, who holds the other welterweight title, is No. 1.
Errol Spence must be allergic to tuneups 🤣
— SibbieBoxing (@SibbieBoxing) February 8, 2022
A fight between the winner of Spence-Ugas and Crawford would crown an undisputed welterweight champion.
However, Terence Crawford vs. Keith Thurman might be more likely in between.
Thurman proved he is still an elite welterweight, winning a 12-round unanimous decision over former super lightweight world champion Mario “El Azteca” Barrios.
In his first fight in over 30 months, the 33-year-old Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) displayed the attributes that led him to the top of the 147-pound division. Thurman got off to a strong start and never relinquished control, at times punishing Barrios with hard shots.
My guy Errol Spence getting ready for a 3 belt unification fight #SpenceUgas while ya favorite fighter in the courtroom suing his ex promoter for NOT getting him big fights #Levels #Boxing pic.twitter.com/O35c6DaM97
— Ray Jackson (@RayJack97010720) February 8, 2022
Terence Crawford stopped former two-time titleholder and mandatory challenger Shawn Porter in the 10th round in November to retain the WBO welterweight belt.
Depending on the Spence vs. Ugas fight results, a medical suspension is possible, as Spence is a heavy slugger. However, to avoid stagnation, Crawford facing off against Thurman would be great for the division, as it would further round out the welterweight landscape.
In a world where being undisputed is occurring more often, it would be excellent for there to be an undisputed welterweight champion. Now that Spence vs. Ugas is official, the division is getting closer to one champion, which is more of what the sport needs.
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