Coram Deo Sports

Probably Finished Here

2008-10-27T23:24:00.001-05:00

I think I'm done with Coram Deo Sports. It was a fun run, but I'm just going to write on Abundant Redemption, even when I'm writing about sports. Thanks for reading.

It's Been Awhile

2008-10-01T21:02:00.004-05:00

A few random thoughts concerning sports...

I was in Minnesota this weekend. A chance to get away from Titans football and watch a team with a different philosophy? Nope, the Titans were playing the Vikings.

The Cubs are a joke.

UCLA almost pulled another one out against a ranked team.

As I get older, the only team I live and die with is the Bruins. I felt it with the Lakers during their run last year. I hope it's still here when the NBA resumes. I kind of have the love for the Predators, but that comes and goes.

I really don't have an NFL team, and as much as I want the Cubs to win it, I can't say I'd be unhappy for the Dodgers.

I'm finding myself rooting for players and stories more than I root for teams. I would almost rather, actually, I think I can definitively say I'd rather Joe Torre or Ken Griffey Kr. win a World Series than the Cubs. Not that I don't want the Cubs to win. I really do. I would just love to see the Yankees eat their pride or an aging legend go out on top.

I told you the thoughts were random.

Classic

2008-09-04T08:56:00.000-05:00

More Neuheisel Love

2008-09-03T10:21:00.003-05:00

I didn't actually see this happen, but a friend told me the story Tuesday morning.

After Craft threw his third interception Neuheisel pulled him aside and yelled at him, "That's three. Stop it."

That's good coaching.

Wow! Wow! Wow!

2008-09-01T23:04:00.002-05:00

First of all, Bruins, I'm sorry. I had absolutely no faith in you. I was wrong.

Second, I'm legally changing my sons' names to Neuheisel.

Third, I am already giantly (not a word) impressed by Tennessee fans who have been congratulatory and kind.

Fourth, go Bruins!!!

Halftime Thoughts

2008-09-01T20:53:00.002-05:00

I was right. I hate it, but I was right. I knew Tennessee would score on defense.

Four interceptions. Yikes. On the bright side, Norm Chow was overheard walking into the locker room saying, "The kid's still the best quarterback I've coached in three years."

My hope for this game was for UCLA to show itself to be a program moving in the right direction. I wanted them to prove themselves as a relevant team. I think, after a half of football, they are proving themselves relevant.

I've seen basketball teams have less possessions than Tennessee has in the first half, and they only have fourteen points. I don't expect the second half to be as close.

Good game. I haven't broken anything. Maybe I'm growing up.

Probably not.

Go Bruins!!!

The Prediction

2008-09-01T09:11:00.001-05:00

It kills me to say it, but here's what I think.

Tennessee - 38
UCLA - 10

I think Tennessee scores at least once on defense.

Be Ready To Wrestle

2008-08-29T11:07:00.003-05:00

This is a warning.

I am looking at an absolute nightmare of a situation Monday night. My favorite, most beloved team, the UCLA Bruins are playing my least favorite, most hated team, the Tennessee Volunteers.

The Bruins are going to lose, and probably lose badly. A third-string QB is making his first start behind an offensive line starting four first timers. Several aren't even offensive lineman. A rookie, Pac-10 offensive line matching up against an SEC, Tennessee defensive line spells trouble.

This is beyond painful for me. Children are already approaching me at school and talking trash. There is a second grader who keeps telling me he's sorry for the beating the Bruins are going to take Monday night.

I'm feeling slightly on edge.

So, here's the warning. If you want to talk, go ahead and talk, but be ready to wrestle.

I'm going to try to stay humble and quiet. I'm going to try to smile and take the fun pokes that come my way. I'm going to try to remember there is real suffering in the world and this is just a game.

But this is a perfect storm for me to snap. I don't know what will be happening. I don't know where I'll be. I don't know who will be talking, but there is a good chance it'll happen. When it does ... when the warmth of my UCLA love mixes with the coldness of my Tennessee hate causing a storm reaching category 3 or higher, look out. I will be so full of insecurity and anger I might have wrestle you to the ground to prove something to myself and to the rest of the baby blue army.

On the brightside, I'm a UCLA fan, so I probably won't be able to tackle you.

Just be thankful I won't be challenging you to a game of softball, women's water polo, or a juggling contest.

Pointing Toward Heaven

2008-08-08T09:41:00.002-05:00

Two years ago a good friend took me to the Notre Dame/UCLA football game in South Bend. The experience was incredible until UCLA put on another "how not to tackle" exhibition in the fourth quarter. What I remember most about the game (other than my friend shifting between apologizing for my team's loss and celebrating his team's win) was the immediate change in the stadium.

Notre Dame had played poorly all day. UCLA's defense had played well, but the story of the game was Notre Dame's inability to make plays. There was an intense frustration swelling in the fans. With every failed drive, the frustration grew. UCLA was not supposed to win this game. Everyone knew they were watching something that wasn't supposed to happen. Then this happened...

Did you hear the crowd? There was hope and excitement during the play, but when the Jeff SmsoungujndnsonJA caught the pass and ran for the touchdown, there was an eruption. All was right. Things were how they were supposed to be again.

I think situations like this are snapshots of the coming day when we see our Savior. We know things aren't going the way they should. Children are sick, wars are fought, and friends become enemies. We are constantly feeling the frustration swell. But the day is coming when the frustration will end and our faith will be made sight. There will be an eruption that day that dwarfs any stadium celebration. The shout will be for our Savior, the truest and greatest hero of all.

Livestrong?

2008-08-05T19:17:00.003-05:00

It is one of those 'we have 70 channels and nothing is on' kind of nights. I've settled in on TLC and a show about the 759 pound man. The 759 pound man hasn't walked since 1998. The doctor just asked him how long he has had high blood pressure. I'm guessing since at least '98.

Anyway, I wish this guy all the best. I really hope the show helps him lose some weight and get healthy. What inspired this post is the guy is wearing a yellow, Lance Armstrong, Livestrong band. It just struck me as something that needed to be documented ... and this is my outlet.

Bryant Athletes

2008-07-28T07:45:00.002-05:00

These are my cousins Josh and Noah from California.

In a related story, I pulled a muscle in my shoulder when I tried to shoulder press setting four in the Gulf Shores condo gym. Looks like I'll be missing this year's competition.

Rays Fever

2008-07-02T22:03:00.002-05:00

I have Rays Fever. I loved watching them a little last week in Florida. I was sitting in bed reading tonight and it hit me that they might be on ESPN playing the Red Sox. I told Rebecca I was really excited about watching this game. Most exciting team I've seen in a long time.

A few things occurred to me. What if the Cubs finally get a chance to win a World Series and lost to the Rays? How bad do the Blue Jays and Orioles feel that the team finally making a move on the Yankees and Red Sox are the Rays? How much fun is it to watch fans who have never had anything to cheer for get excited about their team?

The Rays just won and swept the Sox. Sorry, Pete.

Win the win was final they played, 'Sweet Caroline.' Careful, Rays.

Merchandise #2

2008-06-27T12:00:00.002-05:00

The Memphis Grizzlies have lost the sale of two youth bball jerseys.

Merchandise

2008-06-26T20:56:00.001-05:00

The Memphis Grizzlies have sold two youth basketball jerseys tonight. I'm glad Mr. Love will be in Tennessee.

Random Ramblings in Hyphen-Bullet Form

2008-06-25T09:42:00.003-05:00

- I read Baron Davis might be traded to the Pistons. I hope not. I love Baron Davis. I hate the Pistons. I miss the days when players stayed with a team. In the current system there is such a natural progression to root for players instead of teams. When the players you love end up on teams you hate (or teams you love have players you hate) it makes for some interesting situations.

- On the subject of UCLA players in the NBA, it is good to see a Bruin impact. Even before Lavin there was a pretty long drought of significant Bruins in the NBA. Now Farmar is looking like the PG in LA. Love and Westbrook are lottery picks. Trevor Ariza looks like the real deal.

- I'm in Florida for the week. One of the things I'm most excited about is watching the Rays on tv. I've noticed their winning ways, but haven't gotten a chance to watch them in Nashville. They will be on tv here all week.

- I know it's none of my business, but I would be more comfortable if men didn't wear capris.

The King of Kong

2008-06-14T21:23:00.005-05:00

I guess this classifies as sports. I watched the documentary called 'The King of Kong' today. It is brilliant on purpose and hilarious unintentionally. Maybe the filmmakers intended the comedy, but the participants certainly didn't.

If you've never seen a grown man cry because of Donkey Kong, rent this movie.

It is unbelievable.

My favorite character is the fourth best player in the world at Super Cobra.

Fantasy Sports

2008-06-13T21:58:00.002-05:00

When my team does well I'm a genius. When they don't fantasy sports are all about luck.

My first round pick was Chase Utley. Not because I knew he would do what he is doing, but because he went to UCLA.

Finals Breakdown

2008-06-12T22:49:00.001-05:00

CRAP!!!

Bad Decision

2008-06-07T16:09:00.001-05:00

I'm watching the initial coverage of Big Brown's attempt at winning the triple crown. The intro had the announcer say it's like going through a season undefeated and showed a picture of Wes Welker. Should they have shown a member of the Dolphins?

Just saying.

Praying For A Win?

2008-06-02T22:06:00.003-05:00

There was a time I would shudder at the thought of praying for my team to win. I thought it was ridiculous. I've changed my mind.

Two years ago the Rutgers womens' basketball team beat Duke in the NCAA tournament. Duke's best free-throw shooter was at the line, needing to sink two to win the game and send the Blue Devils to the championship game. She missed them both. Because Duke lost and Rutgers won, Rutgers got national attention. Because of their national attention, they were mentioned by Don Imus. Because they were mentioned (and I'm using that term loosely) Don Imus was fired. Because Don Imus was fired, numerous people had to find new jobs. If the girl from Duke makes her free-throws, none of that ever happens.

Some people (including Christians) believe that was simple fate. I don't. I believe God has a part in every detail of life, including missed free-throws (For the sake of brevity, I'm leaving it at that. If you want to talk more about my beliefs about God's sovereignty leave a comment or we'll go to lunch).

My point for this post is there are huge ramifications surrounding sports that go far beyond wins a losses. Every made basket sets in motion other happenings that determine outcomes in other areas of life. Areas more significant than wins and losses. But the significance of those areas makes wins and losses more significant.

All that to say, I think it's okay to pray for your team to win. Or even the Penguins if they're playing personified evil (hypothetically). Praying is submitting to God's will. When I pray for a friend to be healed, I'm saying I know God can heal them if he chooses, but I know if he doesn't choose to heal them, he's got a reason I don't understand. I think it's the same for sports. I pray for my team to win, but if they don't, I rest in his will, no matter how painful it is to watch UCLA lose in the Final Four three years in a row.

I'm not sure any of this is making sense, but it's my current practice. I'd love to hear what you think.

One more important note. I haven't had a team win a championship since 1999. That was before I was a sports prayer. Off the top of my head, I can only remember one game I prayed for a win and got one. I'm just saying, I've been knocking, but I'm waiting for the door to be opened.

Why I'm Back

2008-05-27T23:58:00.004-05:00

Warning - this post needs an editor. I wrote it at 12:30 and didn't see many of the errors I'm seeing today. I'm too tired to change it because I was up at 12:30 writing about bball. Kind of a catch-22.

So, I've watched NBA basketball several nights in a row. Hopefully the streak will continue tomorrow night. It is a product I had sworn off. For years I told my uncle I'd rather watch playoff hockey than playoff basketball. I was watching the Lakers/Spurs game tonight and came up with some reasons I think I'm back.

The athletes

Basketball players are hands down the best athletes in the world. To be a good basketball player, you have to have the total package of athleticism. I've played pick-up basketball with NFL players who couldn't shoot a smooth jump-shot. To be able to score and defend a person has to be extremely coordinated. The NBA is full of the best of the best athletes. The skill level is off the charts.

The depth

Coaching in high school and watching college, you basically see teams that are 6-8 players deep. And by deep I mean 6-8 who actually play. Most high school teams really only have 3 or four contributors. Some have as many as 6. More than 6 is rare. Watching the NBA playoffs and seeing up to 10 contributors is fun.

Innovation and creativity

I have had a breakthrough. Motion offense isn't the way to go (unless you're less talented than the other team). If you have the best player on the planet, you don't want to reduce the game to five on five. That isn't bad basketball. Sometimes purists can be stubborn. I still don't want complete isolation or ball-hoggery, but ball-screens. The players and coaches have the basketball minds and talent to pull off some incredibly imaginative plays. I'm enjoying have my mind opened up to the game.

The fundamentals

I know. I know. The pro game's reputation is no fundamentals. It isn't true. I'm watching these guys defend, handle the ball, rebound, and shoot. They're fundamentals are excellent. This isn't the NBA of the late 90's/early 00's (or whatever we're living in). This is good basketball. They defense on the pick and rolls alone is worth watching. One more thing, the passing is amazing. I'm not sure how it has become so good again, but it has. I love good passing and the game is currently full of great passers.

The coverage

I don't know of another sport that gets the kind of coverage the NBA does. The cameras in the coaches huddles are great. The interviews between the third and fourth quarters are great. By the way, if you watched the Lakers/Spurs game, why didn't Popivich talk about basketball in the huddles. All he did was motivate. He was full of lines like play together and play for each other, but I didn't hear a single basketball comment. I don't get that. Maybe it's why Brent Barry got the final shot.

The shot clock

I love the 24 second shot clock. No game is over with that short of an opportunity to shoot. It keeps the game moving at a fun pace and I think even improves defense. You know you only have to defend 24 seconds at a time.

The Lakers

I have a team again. You can scroll down if you're at all interested in how I've slowly come back to the Lakers. I won't go into it all again, but I am a Laker fan once again. I no longer root against Kobe. I love watching him and want another championship in LA. I'm already talking to my uncle about a road trip to Memphis next year to see the Lakers play the Tigers (I mean Grizzlies).

A couple things I'd still like to see go.

The music during the game.

It just bugs me.

Advancing the ball to the front-court on timeouts.

I just don't get this one. The ball should be taken out where the timeout was called. I see no reason or fairness in advancing it to the front-court.

If you've given up on the NBA, give it another try. Watch for 96 seconds. You'll get four possessions, and you'll be back.

When It Hurts

2008-05-12T09:58:00.007-05:00

The true test of love is pain. If you love something, it will hurt when it is threatened or lost. This is never more true (exaggeration) than in sports.

A real fan is not someone who gets excited when his or her team wins. A real fan is someone who feels pain when their team loses. I live in Nashville and because of living in Nashville, I pull for and follow the Titans. I am not a Titans fan. When they lose, I feel nothing.

Yesterday, for the first time in a long time I felt it. (I really can't even remember how long ago it was - I think Sedale Threat and Nick Van Exel were Lakers the last time I felt it.) When the Lakers lost to the Jazz, it hurt. I felt the sting.

I know I've written about this more than anybody cares to read, but it is fascinating and exciting to me to care about the Lakers again. I have gone from wearing purple everyday to wanting the Clippers to be the team in LA and now the love is coming back. I can't deny the pain. It wasn't a deep pain. I didn't want to kick the furniture (see youtube - unaware bruins fan), but it was there. It was like the pinch you get when the needle pierces the skin. Over pretty quickly, but remembered and dreaded.

Not sure I'll ever be here again...

but it's nice to feel the hurt once more.

The Lull

2008-05-07T12:57:00.002-05:00

My interest in sports lulls after March Madness. I will find the passion again. The Predators made a sweet and unintimidating little run in the playoffs. That was fun and kept me inspired for a week longer than usual. I'm following the NBA playoffs more than I have in years. I'm rooting for the Lakers, but very intrigued by Chris Paul. On a side note, I'm also intrigued by Ron Paul and am currently reading and recommending his book. LINK

I love baseball and have even been to Wrigley already this year, but I won't truly get into baseball until around July.

Spring basketball practice started last Wednesday and ended yesterday. We're installing a new offense. I've mentioned before on this blog that X's and O's aren't my strength. This is my third year with Drew and I am really excited as I see myself growing in that area. As he drew up the offense, I noticed intricacies of the game I normally wouldn't notice. It is pretty amazing to be growing so rapidly as his assistant. We're going to be very hard to guard next year. I'm hungry for basketball season.

All that to say, Coram Deo Sports has been a little slow lately. I hope to be more inspired in the next few weeks. Hopefully the NBA and NHL will be inspiring.

Something Is Happening to Me

2008-04-25T16:05:00.002-05:00

I can't explain it, but I'm finding myself very interested in the Lakers. Old feelings are being rekindled. I ran across this video today. I posted on a Sports Illustrated message board defending Byron Scott's role on the 80's Laker teams. I looked up James Worthy posters on ebay. Something is happening. I think I'm forgiving Kobe. I think I'm cheering for the Lakers. I have wanted them to lose for so many years in a row. It feels so strange. But it is definitely happening.

I Wish I WIsh I Wish (from Sports Illustrated)

2008-04-25T10:34:00.000-05:00

Rams owner denies LA move

Posted: Friday April 25, 2008 06:45AM ET

A recent proposal by California billionaire Ed Roski Jr. to build an $800 million stadium near Los Angeles, with the goal of attracting an NFL team, was met with raised eyebrows by concerned Rams fans here. Would Chip Rosenbloom, the team's new owner and a Hollywood filmmaker, shuttle the Rams back to his hometown? Rosenbloom on Thursday sought emphatically to allay such fears. "We have a lease (through the 2015 season), first of all. We have a commitment to St. Louis, secondly. We don't have any interest in moving to Los Angeles," Rosenbloom said at Rams Park. "Is that clear enough?"

Tapping Into Old Hatred - I Didn't Even Know

2008-04-17T17:36:00.002-05:00

It turns out I still hate the Celtics. I didn't even know it. I had actually been happy for them throughout this year. They should be good. I like Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Paul Pierce.

But yesterday Sports Illustrated arrived and the Celtics shared the cover with the Lakers. Emotions I hadn't felt since 1987 were rekindled. For the first time since Shaq left the Lakers, I wanted them to win the NBA championship. I want them to play the Celtics, and I want them to win.

This is all very new. I may delve in a little more later. I was just told dinner is ready.

Let's go, Kobe.

Did I really just type that?

Top Ten

2008-04-17T13:00:00.001-05:00

Wow - You Can't Make This Up

2008-04-14T22:23:00.003-05:00

I just returned from the Predators 5-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. It was without a doubt the most fun game I've been to. The hockey was fun. The fans surrounding me were unparrallelled.

About two minutes into the game I noticed the family of seven sitting behind me - four boys, mom, dad, and a nursing infant. I never actually saw the infant, but dad was holding something swaddled most of the game and occasionally mom would borrow the bundle for a few minutes.

Milk was not the only thing spewing from mommy.

The reason the family initially caught my attention was because their four year old kept yelling, "Detroit sucks!" Mom quickly countered with, "If you say that again we're leaving."

Now, I consider myself extremely blessed to be able to afford a single ticket to the playoff game. This family bought six tickets. The kid knew as well as I did that they weren't going anywhere. So about three seconds later, "Detroit sucks!"

It quieted down for awhile. I think I sensed a look from mom at that point. But then she gave the green light. The Predators weren't shooting the puck, and mom had had enough. She let them know it with a resounding, "Shoot the puck, dammit."

I could feel the giddiness resonate from the boys.

Mom has given up the high ground! Storm the castle! The words that followed are carved into my mind forever. I'm going to spare you. Just believe me, the baby was wincing.

Through all of this, I never saw dad say a word. He just held the baby until feeding time.

I think he was scared.

The Gates Open ... Don't Run - Speed-Walk

2008-04-13T10:35:00.004-05:00

I tried to find some video of this, but couldn't. Yesterday CBS showed the gates open at Augusta National and people speed-walking to their chosen golf watching locations.

The speed walk is one of mans' most awkward inventions. I assume the speed-walk at Augusta is used in order to not appear rude and maintain a level of decency. Speed-walkers, you have failed.

The speed-walkers were impaired by their chairs and umbrellas. I think one guy was holding an arm in his hand (presumably the rest of his friend wasn't quite as speedy).

All this to say, if I'm ever at Augusta and by some chance get to the front of the line before the gates open, I'm going to run to wherever it is I want to go. No speed-walking for me.

Your National Champion ...

2008-04-08T11:04:00.002-05:00

KANSAS

(thanks to James Hayes for the link)

Final Four

2008-04-05T21:38:00.002-05:00

This just in ... Memphis is really good. I have watched a lot of UCLA games the last three years. There are only two teams who have made them look like that. Florida and Memphis. The better team won tonight.

I think the Tennessee/Memphis game was the most important game of the season for both teams. Memphis needed the loss and I honestly believe the win was the ruination of Tennessee's season. They thought they had arrived. They never looked hungry to me after that win. The mental aspect of sports is amazing. Who'd think a win could ruin your season?

Watching the UNC/Memphis game is frustrating for me. I really don't care who wins. I think the referees started helping UNC when they were down 28. I know referees cannot overcome a twenty-eight point deficit, but if UNC comes back, they were helped. Refs have to call the game like it is tied no matter how different the score is. Have I mentioned I hate referees? It's a problem.

Billy Packer, why do you talk?

Jim Nantz, this isn't Augusta.

Kevin Love, please come back.

Darren Collison, see Kevin Love.

Kevin Love

2008-04-04T20:47:00.001-05:00

The Final Four

2008-03-31T11:15:00.001-05:00

Abraham vs Moses in the early game.

David and Paul in the nightcap.

3 In a Row - It Isn't Always Like This Joshua

2008-03-29T21:30:00.003-05:00

My son Joshua has been alive for three final fours. My son Drew will experience his second next weekend. UCLA has made it to the Final Four in each of year of their short lives. Just something I thought of tonight.

Meanwhile, UNC is in the middle of another collapse. Not sure how game will pan out, but I will never give a Roy Williams team the benefit of the doubt when it comes to the tournament. I know he did it once, but I'm just not a believer. I love him. I think he is a great coach. But his teams always (except once) collapse in the tournament. And it's usually a game they seemed to have in hand. The same goes for Bill Self. I love him, but his teams just don't seem to get it done.

Your Elite Eight Bible Brackets - Is it just me or does Moses look bored?

2008-03-29T10:19:00.003-05:00

Midwest Region

Paul vs Gideon

East Region

David vs Elijah

South Region

Abraham vs Jacob (Will grandpa have enough to keep his grandson down?)

West Region

Moses vs Joshua (Will Joshua climb out of Moses' shadow?)

Brett Favre - Catholic Hero

2008-03-28T11:43:00.001-05:00

This is an article written about Brett Favre. I have always wondered about his beliefs. The article hit me on a number of fronts. I won't take the time to go into all of them, but one is how blinded I can become by sports.

When I think about Favre's last pass being an interception, my heart breaks. I want to see the hero go out on a td pass, not a pick that causes his team to lose. But, he saw it differently. He saw it as a bad decision leading to negative consequences.

Check out the link.

Life is Sweet

2008-03-27T22:49:00.001-05:00

Things are good when your team is winning by such a large margin that they switch the tv coverage to the game where your most hated team is getting beaten.

Bible Bracket Sweet Sixteen - I Hope Moses Doesn't Overlook Ezekiel

2008-03-26T09:47:00.003-05:00

Midwest Region

Paul vs Cain
Gideon vs Adam

East Region

David vs Samuel
Peter vs Elijah

South Region

Abraham vs Isaiah
John vs Jacob

West Region

Moses vs Ezekiel
Boaz vs Joshua

This is Humbling (and funny)

2008-03-22T22:48:00.006-05:00

Rebecca videoed me watching the Bruins gut-wrenching win over Texas A&M. I didn't know she was filming. At one point she had to play it off and pretend she was laughing at my commentary. I think it was good for me to see this.

Enjoy. At my expense, enjoy.

(It gets really good about 1:45)

Second Round Bible Brackets - Some Intriguing Matchups

2008-03-22T15:20:00.003-05:00

Midwest (Formerly South)

Paul vs Apollos
Timothy vs Cain
Writer of Hebrews vs Adam
Gideon vs Luke

East

David vs Saul (rivals)
Solomon vs Samuel (a lot of mutual respect)
Ezra vs Elijah
Andrew vs Peter (brothers)

South (Formerly Midwest)

Abraham vs Lot (uncle vs nephew)
Isaiah vs Joseph
Isaac vs Jacob (father vs son)
James vs John (brothers)

West

Moses vs Pharaoh (throw out the records when these two get together)
Ezekiel vs Nebuchadnezzar
Barnabas vs Joshua
John the Baptist vs Boaz

It's That Time - Bible Brackets

2008-03-20T08:30:00.004-05:00

Click on bracket to enlarge.

I am on vacation and don't have the knowledge (or technology - I think) to change the regions. So, the Midwest is actually the South, meaning Paul is Kansas and Abraham is Memphis. David is UNC and UCLA is Moses. Let's go Moses.

In the womens' bracket, the one seeds are as follows: UCONN is Mary, Maryland is Eve (Seems like Maryland should be Mary), UNC is Esther, and Ruth is Tennessee.

Send me your picks in the comment section. The winner will get a prize. That is all I can say at this time.

Prediction

2008-03-15T21:19:00.001-05:00

Tennessee lost today. Here is my first official prediction for March Madness. Belmont will play and beat Tennessee in the first round 2/15 matchup.

Looking Forward to Selection Sunday

2008-03-15T20:11:00.001-05:00

Right Now - Top Five (or bottom 5) Sports Heartbreaks

2008-03-14T14:56:00.007-05:00

The second round of the state tournament is going on right now. It's been two days and I still feel sick when I think about it. I believe with all my heart we should be playing. We're not, so the sickness remains. I suspect it always will. Even if we win it next year, we'll always wonder about this year. It doesn't help that the only thing on all the tv channels I watch is basketball.

This is, without a doubt, the toughest sports heartbreak I've ever gone through. I thought I'd write about the other four. I think the normal way to do this is by putting number one last (I can't decide if that would be ascending or descending). Since I've already messed that up, I'll just keep going.

2. Magic Johnson's Retirement because of AIDS

Magic Johnson is the reason I love basketball. Growing up in LA during the 80's was as good as it gets for a young basketball fan. My dad always wondered why I would rather pass than shoot. It was because of Magic. I learned to love making teammates better because of him. My elementary wardrobe featured more Magic than socks.

I was in eighth grade that year. I requested prayer for Magic everyday in bible class. I was teased mercilessly. I didn't care. It has been sixteen years since Magic's diagnosis. I like to think his health is an answer to a lot of prayers.

I remember coming home from school wanting to be distracted. When I pulled in the garage I saw my Magic posters. There were more in my room. I remember trying to play video games to take my mind off of Magic. The game in the Nintendo was Magic Johnson's Fast Break (which was horrible, but I played it out of loyalty). Even my purple and gold Converse were a reminder of my hero's untimely retirement.

3. Changing high school basketball programs (moving from Southern California to Tennessee)

My freshman year in California was fairly successful. I was looking forward to my sophomore year and playing varsity basketball. My family relocated and I ended up playing in Tennessee with Ron Mercer, Drew Maddux, and Sam Howard. Needless to say, my roles changed a lot. Maybe the move exposed my lack of passion for the game. I definitely wonder what would have happened had I stayed in Southern California.

4. 1991 NBA Finals

I was the only one of my young group of friends who stuck it out with the Lakers. Everybody else jumped to the Jordan bandwagon. I can't fault them. We were young. Lots of kids jump ship when Michael Jordan is involved. Anyway, that year was my chance to prove all the jumpers wrong. The Lakers met the Bulls in the finals. I always had the, "Magic has championships, so he is better than Jordan" card in my back pocket. I was looking forward to Magic beating Jordan to strengthen my case. I was feeling so good about myself after game one. My prediction was Lakers in five games. I thought they would win game one and then sweep in LA. I was right. They won game one (thanks to a Sam Perkins 3) and there was an LA sweep. Just not the sweep I expected. That series still effects my basketball philosophy. The Bulls put Scottie Pippen on Magic Johnson and it worked. Magic always had a major advantage over other guards. Putting a forward on him who could defend him well really hurt the Lakers offensively. I love putting a four man on the other team's point guard. Also, I don't think John Paxson has missed a shot since that series.

Number 5 is tough. I want to say it is my Uncle Chris' loss in the CIF Finals to a guy named Heath Sims. Chris was my hero when I was little. I said earlier that I loved basketball because of Magic Johnson. I guess I wouldn't have found that love if Chris hadn't made me fall in love with the Lakers. He is also the reason I love UCLA and the Rams (I think I liked the Dodgers for a little while, but my heart didn't really find a baseball home until I visited Wrigley). Anyway, Chris was a successful wrestler, so I liked wrestling from first to third grade. Chris' senior year was the year following my grandma's (his mom) death from cancer. If my memory is right, I think he only lost four matches that year (only two prior to the loss to Sims). I remember each of those losses, but the CIF championship loss was the toughest. I remember crying when he lost. I remember wanting to make excuses for him. He wouldn't let me.

I also want to make number five being a Rams fan. That has been hard. They were always runner up to the 49ers in the 80's. The 90's found them in first. Unfortunately I'm talking about the first draft pick. They had one good year in 1999, but that was it.

I'm going with Uncle Chris for number 5.

I'd love to hear about your top five. Comment if you'd like.

Nuts and Bolts, Nuts and Bolts, We Got ....

2008-03-13T08:34:00.002-05:00

We lost in the quarter finals of the state tournament last night. Dyer County hit a shot (I can't call it a three) as the clock ran out. We lost 70-69. They were a good and sportsmanlike team. I hope they win it all. There were some clock issues. Here is a summary written by The Tennessean's, Jeff Lockridge.

Jeff Lockridge

You want poised and observant officials.

You want a clock operator paying attention with competent equipment.

You want very little, if any, controversy.

You want everyone to be sure about what the saw, and more importantly
who won, when they leave Murphy Center each night.

This is, after all, the state tournament.

So what in the world happened Wednesday in the CPA-Dyer County boys
basketball state quarterfinal?

Let me preface this by saying I am a fan of Dyer County, its players and
think highly of Coach Derek McCord. They must be commended for a 70-69
comeback victory.

But was it just?

The last of what I interpreted as three gaffes in the final 15.4 seconds
was a judgment call based on visuals, so perhaps you can excuse three
officials for not spotting Rex Pierce’s foot on the 3-point line.

However, decisions regarding the two time issues before the shot are an
embarrassment for the TSSAA and its otherwise reputable tournament.

It’s anybody’s guess where the clock should have been at when it stopped
at 13.7 seconds as Dyer County worked the ball around the perimeter.
What seemed like several seconds had elapsed since Dyer County brought
the ball down from the other end of the floor with 15.4 seconds to play.

One head coach in attendance without a dog in the hunt said he thought
there should have been six or seven seconds left. I was thinking nine.
Either way, there was a lapse with the clock and the officials made no
corrections.

So my question: Why then make an incorrect modification moments later?
The clock was at 4.6 seconds when a timeout was called and then it
ticked down to 3.9.

So the answer was to put back up 7.0?

Here’s the kicker. CPA was able to run 2.1 seconds off the clock before
the foul after the time was reset. What it should have been was 2.5 seconds.

Last time I checked, it’s tough to get off a good shot from 19 (or 18)
feet away when you have to go the length of the court in 2.5 seconds.

Stadium Pal

2008-03-11T14:52:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Thomas McKenzie for this clip.

Off Day, Blind Draw, and Questionable Calls

2008-03-07T23:03:00.003-06:00

We have tomorrow off. I'm so tired and thankful for an off day. Monday and Tuesday we practice at a local university to get a feel for playing in an arena. It is going to be a great week. I've never really experienced anything like this first hand. I have actually been dreaming about the tournament.

It is hard to believe the season ends this week. We have spent almost everyday together since November.

We find out who and when we play at ten o'clock tomorrow morning. The way Tennessee does it is to put all the teams in a hat and draw them randomly. So the best two teams could end up playing each other in the first round.

And now for the call. Last night UCLA won the Pac-10 regular season championship for the third year in a row. They got two free throws and forced overtime on this call.

I think it should have been a jump ball. I don't know who had the possession arrow. If it wasn't a jump ball, UCLA would still have had possession and time to score. Stanford is a good team. I don't think anybody wants to play them in the tournament. If they can rebound emotionally from the loss I think they will win the Pac-10 tourament and get a two seed in the tournament.

Did I Really Just Hear That????

2008-03-06T21:51:00.002-06:00

For some of you this will make no sense. For those of you who have discussed UCLA basketball with me it will.

Steve Lavin was calling a basketball game on ESPN this evening. He was telling the listeners how important it is to instill a love for the little things in players. Little things like free throws and protecting the ball.

Yes, that Steve Lavin. The one who single-handedly turned the Bruins into a joke. High school kids would visit his practices and tell their parents it was too loose. He would let players play on gymnastic equipment instead of making them shoot free-throws.

I should be past this. I should be able to forgive the guy. The Bruins wouldn't have Ben Howland if Lavin hadn't tanked the program, so there is a bright spot. But ESPN, please don't make me listen to Steve Lavin tell me the importance of the small things.

There is an Upside

2008-03-05T13:48:00.003-06:00

There is an upside to ESPN using all of their cameras at the Duke/UNC games. Shots like these.

And They Said the Big Ten Network Was A Bad Idea

2008-03-02T12:53:00.000-06:00

Best Practice Ever

2008-03-01T21:27:00.002-06:00

If you know me at all, you know practice is not my strong suit. I didn't like it in middle school, high school, junior high band, or any other time can think of. The exception for me has been tournament practice. Drew is always a great coach, but he during tournament time, he is exceptional. His creativity is at its highest during the tournaments.

Today was the most fun practice I have ever been a part of. I threw an idea at him before practice. He turned the idea into a full-fledged offense. After one hour, we had five (possibly six) new plays based on one idea. It is so much fun to watch him flesh out an idea. I am a big picture guy. I can think of a concept, but my weakness is making it happen. Toward the end of practice I thought I saw a play developing. I told Drew what I saw and he drew it out. The players ran it perfectly.

I'm excited about Monday night. If we win we go to state. I hope we get to run the new sets.

Sweet 16!!!

2008-02-27T10:41:00.002-06:00

We won last night. I wrote about being curious about how they would try to attack us. The just played man on defense and mainly motion on offense. They have one really good shooter who they run a lot of flares for. He hit some shots, but they were never really in the game. We were up twenty at halftime. I was shocked they tried to play us man to man. They just didn't have the players for that strategy to work.

After the game the coaching staff stuck around to watch the other semifinal game. We play the winner of that game tonight. It is a blast to be a part of such a special staff. I have been an assistant coach for a varsity basketball team one other time. It was horrible. The guy lead each meeting with a new assistant with this quote, "I don't need you. I can do this by myself. You'll get to do as much as you earn." Not being one who thrives on the whole 'prove myself' mentality, it didn't work. This staff is completely different. We meet before every game to discuss the plans for the game. We enjoy everything from eating together to coaching together. It is a special group of guys who care about each other, the game, and most importantly, teaching young men to love to play the game to glorify God.

One quick note from last night's game. We were up 21 with about four minutes to go. We had put in subs when the lead was somewhere around 28. Our subs turned the ball over on four or five straight possessions, so we put our starters back in. We had no intention of even scoring. We spread the court and just held the ball from the other team. Their fans booed the move. I have always thought basketball is one of the toughest sports to ref or coach because the common fan thinks they know a lot more about the game than they actually do. I get so frustrated when fans talk about (or worse, boo about) when they don't understand what is going on. We put in the players who could hold the ball and win the game. This is a tournament and momentum has so much to do with tournament basketball. If we end the game (even with a win), but turn the ball over 15 times, we will come out struggling the next day. If we hold the ball for four minutes and not run up the score we increase our confidence and develop a rhythm going into the next game.
Good to get that off my chest.

Region Semi's

2008-02-25T22:32:00.002-06:00

We play in the region tournament semifinal game tomorrow night. It is the game we lost last year. If we win, we are guaranteed a game next Monday night to go to the final 8 and play in Murfreesboro. If we win tomorrow and Wednesday, we host the game Monday night. We had a great practice today. We have already beaten the team we are playing tomorrow night by 12 and 30 earlier this year. In the first game we outscored them 26-9 in the first quarter. In the second game, we were up 27-7 after one. One of the most fun aspects of tournament basketball is the chess match goes on between the coaches. I'm excited to see how they come out and try to play us. I would stall for the first quarter and then try to establish my own rhythm for the game for three quarters. It'll be interesting.

If you're not busy and feel like driving to Spring Hill, come and cheer on the Lions. We play at 6.

Bigger Story?

2008-02-21T10:17:00.002-06:00

Yes, Kobe led the Lakers to a six point win in Shaq's debut with the Suns. But here is my takeaway, the Suns played the Lakers to a two possession game in their first week with a seemingly revitalized Shaq.

I like the Shaq Suns. I like watching the Big Diesel run the court.

I like the Suns in a seven game series.

I'm also horribly biased and wouldn't admit it if I thought the Lakers were 1,000 times better that the Suns.

The truth is, at this point in my life I care more about hockey than NBA basketball. Let's just hope the Nashville Predators don't ever sign Kobe Bryant. He can't steal two teams from me.

Who Needs Sleep?

2008-02-20T03:03:00.002-06:00

It's 3 in the morning. I went to bed around 11:30. I woke up around 2 and just can't sleep. Our basketball team won a triple overtime barn burner last night.

It was the perfect storm for an upset. We haven't lost since December. We haven't had a game closer than single digits in over a month and we had a 17 point lead in that game in the fourth quarter. We were playing our rival for the third time this year. District rivalries are always tough. And lastly, we didn't have school Monday or Tuesday. High school basketball players need routine. A four day weekend is not ideal for a district championship. All that to say, the team was ripe for an upset.

The goal of the other team was to limit possessions. Out of the forty-four minute game, they probably HELD the ball for over thirty-two minutes. The third quarter and the first overtime literally consisted of them holding the ball for one possession. I haven't really seen anything like it.

Our boys battled hard. It was only the second district championship in the school's basketball history. The first happened in 1998.

We were down 6 points with 1:07 to play in the first overtime. We had a four point play and forced two turnovers. They missed putback layups at the end of regulation and the first two overtimes. It could have easily gone the other way. They battled hard as well.

These are all ramblings of an extremely tired person. I thought writing might help me sleep. I think it's just making me more excited. I'm so proud of the players. It is an amazing privilege to watch young men learn about themselves and their capabilities. It is so much fun to watch them become what you know they already are - champions.

If it was on ESPN is would have been an instant classic. I'm not sure I'd be able to watch.

Charles Barkley - Theologian???

2008-02-17T11:19:00.003-06:00

So if you are against abortion and think marriage is only for a man and a woman you are a fake Christian who doesn't understand what Christianity is all about?

Charles Barkley is allowed to make judgments. Those who disagree with his views are closed minded and judgmental. I am no philosopher, but I see a problem with his logic.

Athletes I Love - Shaquille O'Neal

2008-02-13T10:15:00.001-06:00

I especially enjoy when athletes I love take out broadcasters/athletes I do not.

Tournament Time Scouting

2008-02-09T07:50:00.000-06:00

Last night was the end of the regular season and now it is on to tournament time. We came out 11-0 in districts. I love tournament basketball and this year has the possibility for us to make a really special run.

The way tournaments work in Tennessee is the winners of each region tournament play the runner up from a neighboring region. Last night one of the other assistant coaches and I skipped our game to scout the probable runners-up in our neighboring region. It was a rural school and provided a rural experience.

Some scouting points not having to do with basketball.

The halftime raffle winners won a pie rack, teeth whitening, and a ham.

Next year will be a rebounding year for the dance team. About sixty of their seventy-five dancers were celebrated during senior night.

The two teenage boys sitting behind me REALLY enjoyed the dance team. Two quotes that I couldn't make up if I wanted to ... "If they were performing somewhere else, I'd pay to see it." "It don't get no better than that."

Either the crowd had never seen a scout before or I had something hanging from my nose because we were STARED at the entire night. One lady asked why we were there. When we told her we were scouting she informed us she had a 6'4'' son. We asked if he played. He didn't. Kind of anticlimactic.

Last and certainly not least was the line from a mother (possibly grandmother) who disagreed with the ref. She said, and I quote, "Stupid is a stupid does." I badly wanted to ask her if she had ever seen Forrest Gump. I'm not sure she had.

You gotta love small towns. It don't get no better than that.

Cutting Off My Nose to Spite My Face

2008-02-06T14:47:00.000-06:00

I don't really know what that phrase means, but I think it might describe the emotions I feel when I think about Kobe Bryant and the LA Lakers.

I fell in love basketball for one reason - the Los Angeles Lakers. I grew up in Southern California during the run of Magic and Kareem. I cut my basketball teeth on James Worthy's baseline cuts, Michael Cooper's defense, and Byron Scott's sweet jump-shot. I had more purple in my wardrobe than Barney. My hair still stinks from the corduroy 1987 Lakers' championship hat I wore to school everyday.

Even when I lost interest in the pro game I still followed the Lakers. It all changed when Jerry Buss picked Kobe over Shaq. Since Shaq left and the organization put their hopes in Kobe, I haven't been able to root for them. I have actually cheered against them. I would rather the Clippers to be the team in LA. I was thrilled when Shaq was the first to win a championship after the divorce.

I will not root for Kobe Bryant. I cannot root for Kobe Bryant.

Think about how tragic this is. I have two sons. I have a team I grew up on and learned the game with. This team has a player with the same last name as the boys and me. We could have matching jerseys with our last name on my favorite team. But I can't. I just can't. I can't let anyone think I like Kobe. I cannot put the most selfish player I have ever seen on my sons' backs.

Not even UCLA's former point guard Jordan Farmar was enough to bring me back.

I root against the Lakers. I cheer hard for them to lose. But here is where the nose/face thing comes into play. If the Lakers lose and lose a lot, eventually they will have to trade Kobe to rebuild the team. Eventually they will get tired of it. Eventually they will turn the page. I root for them to lose so that someday I can root for them to win.

Until then (or until he retires) I will be a nomad. I will not have a home. This afternoon I became a Suns fan. I already love that Mike D'Antoni uses a seven second shot clock during practice. I already love Steve Nash. So, the addition of Shaq and the hope that the Kobe led Lakers will be embarrassed by a Shaq led team (or a Shaq contributing team) is the best option I have.

P.S. Dr. Buss, if you're reading, I give you my word the day you let Kobe go I will begin investing in Lakers clothing again. My wardrobe in the 80's financed the move to Staples.

2008 Record

2008-02-04T10:24:00.000-06:00

I am 0-2 in championship games this year. Bring on March Madness!!!

Super Bowl Prediction

2008-01-30T21:37:00.000-06:00

I don't think there has been a Super Bowl I really thought was up for grabs since the Patriots beat the Rams in 2002. The games they played against the Panthers and Eagles had some drama, but I never thought either of those teams really had a chance. Last year's game was over quickly. Come to think of it, what sport has given us an entertaining championship in the last few years?

My prediction - Patriots 42-NY Giants 24.

I am currently reading Bill Belichick's biography. I cannot help myself from rooting for the guy. I love that he refuses pretense and just coaches football. My intention was to have the book read by this weekend so I could offer a book review and give you all some Belichick knowledge. I didn't get it done.

A few things I have enjoyed learning. Belichick was born in Nashville while his dad was coaching Vanderbilt.

Belichick's grandparents were Croatian immigrants.

Belichick's gamplan against the Rams in '02 was to blitz Marchall Faulk. His scouting strategy isn't to find a team's weakness, but to find their strength and nullify it. Their plan was to hit Faulk on every play. It worked.

One last thing. Mike Martz is the arrogant coach I thought he was. I am convinced the Rams would have won at least one more Super Bowl had Dick Vermeil stayed a few more years. There is a story in the book about the Patriots dropping seven dbs into coverage daring the Rams to run the ball. Ricky Prohel and other Rams players were begging Martz to run the ball. His comment - "I'm going to f*#%*#g win it my way." Hope it works for you in SF, Mike.

Enjoy the weekend and pray Tom Petty keeps his clothes on.

Russell Westbrook - I love this kid

2008-01-26T16:57:00.000-06:00

I'm Just Saying

2008-01-22T22:48:00.001-06:00

I keep hearing people say the Giants have a better chance to beat the Patriots because it will be the second time they have played them. They learned so much from their previous meeting, they should be better prepared.

It sounds good for a second, but won't this be the second time the Pats have played the Giants as well?

Bill Belichick will not lose this game.

Go Wildcats. Always good to see Tennessee lose.

Some Thoughts From the Conference Championships

2008-01-21T08:33:00.000-06:00

How sad was it to see Brett Favre throw that last pick? How badly did that hurt? I felt sick as soon as he let it go.

Did you see Favre and Manning after the game? Watching the old guy (he is 38) hug the young guy and congratulate him was great. Especially coming off the pick.

The Giants outplayed the Packers. It should have been decided in regulation. I kept thinking to myself, "I want the Packers, but the Giants deserve it."

If anyone from the Giants' organization reads this, please look into the coloring of Rose, I mean Tom Coughlin's face. I adjusted the tv, but he stayed pink.

The Chargers had three possessions inside the Patriots' ten yard line and came away with 9 points. FG's of 26, 23, and 24 yards will not beat the Patriots. You've got to wonder what a healthy LT does inside the ten.

I am rooting for the Patriots. Say what you will about Belichick. Anybody who is hated by the outside world, but loved by his players wins my respect and admiration. A coach who can get guys like Randy Moss and Corey Dillion to play more like teammates than individuals is a great coach. I will never forget when the Patriots took the field as a team instead of individuals against the Rams. I was scared and rightfully so.

ESPN Bottomline

2008-01-19T17:07:00.001-06:00

The running scoreboard on ESPN STINKS when UCLA loses at home to USC. No tv tonight.

Sorry, It Has Already Been Done

2008-01-18T14:42:00.001-06:00

I came across this robot who can hit a baseball. I hate to break it to the fine people at robocross, but it's already been done.

His name is Chipper Jones and in his 14th year as a pro, I'm still not convinced he is a real person.

It Just Can't Happen

2008-01-10T08:59:00.000-06:00

I have tried, but I can't come up with a creative way to explain how bad an all Manning Super Bowl would be. And I don't mean for Archie and Mrs. Manning. I'm not even worried about Cupper (no, James, I didn't spell it wrong - that is how Peyton says it).

It would be horrible for all of us. There are two weeks between the Conference Championships and the Super Bowl. Can you imagine how many stories we would have to hear about growing up Manning? Can you imagine how many times we would have to look at their parents during the game? ESPN would quit running Sportscenter and run their Manning commercial nonstop. We would be begging for more steroids coverage.

I know the Manning Bowl appears intriguing for about fifteen seconds, but if you think about two weeks of the same boring story, followed by an uneventful Colts blowout, I think you'll change your mind.

On a sidenote - I would much prefer a Giants/Packers matchup in the snow to another GB trip to Dallas. Also, Indy/NE needs to happen. So boys, let's do it for Cupper.

One Thing to Keep in Mind

2008-01-07T22:30:00.000-06:00

I don't know what I'm talking about.

Congratulations, LSU.

Congratulations, SEC.

Congratulations, General Lee.

National Championship or the Latest Civil War Battle

2008-01-06T22:52:00.000-06:00

The following is a real conversation that took place during my first week living in the South.

My new Southern friend "So, you're from California?"

Me "Yes."

SF "You surf?"

Me "No."

SF "You know, the South is going to do it again!?"

Me "Lose another war?"

That is where that conversation ended, but it was a clear warning that I wasn't living in Southern California or 1993. More than my address changed the year I moved to Tennessee.

SEC fans are the most passionate and loyal group of fans I have ever met. It goes beyond supporting a team. It is deeply personal. I'm not sure what the South is going to do again, but I think it has something to do with football (or whichever sport the SEC is succeeding in at the time).

Two years ago I attended the Final Four in Indianapolis. UCLA played LSU and Florida played George Mason. I sat next to two Auburn fans who referred to Florida and LSU as 'we' during both games. "We need to rebound!" "We need to push the ball." I root for the Pac-10. I want them to do well in the NCAA tournament and their bowl games, but you'll be hard-pressed to hear me refer to Washington State as 'we.'

I have wrestled with why the SEC fans take things so personally for years. I have developed a theory. I honestly believe the SEC is the modern day Confederate Army. This region of the country lives with the history of losing a war to the rest of the nation. There is a lingering 'little brother has to prove himself to big brother' effect. The unity that exists in the conference is staggering because their hatred of each other is only outdone by their love for the conference.

When Florida beat Ohio State last year, it wasn't just a football victory. It was a statement about little brother being strong enough beat down big brother. Tomorrow night's game means different things to different people. For SEC fans, it is more than a crystal trophy. It is payback from the sting of a loss suffered 143 years ago.

My prediction - General Tressell - 27 Private Miles - 13

Tuesday's conversation will not be LSU's speed. It will be Ohio State's toughness and physicality.

Please keep in mind I grew up in LA LA Land where people show up to championship games in the 2nd quarter and leave at halftime.

Rick Neuheisel Called Me Tonight

2008-01-02T20:44:00.000-06:00

The phone rang about four times. I was upstairs with Joshua. I didn't know why Rebecca wasn't answering, but after the third ring I started looking for the phone. I'm so glad I found it. It was the new UCLA football coach, Rick Neuheisel.

He told me who he was and what he envisioned for the program. He told me that UCLA is the greatest school in America with excellent academics and athletics. He mentioned the beautiful campus in Southern California. He told me he was looking forward to partnering with me to build UCLA into what it should be.

I'm on board, coach. Thanks for the call. Thanks for thinking of me. I don't know which game I'll be able to attend next year, but I'll make it to one.

I know it was just a recording. I know it probably shouldn't make me smile and blush when I think about it, but it does. UCLA football has given me FAR more pain than gain, but when Coach Neuheisel called me tonight, all the pain was forgotten. Steve Lavin almost ruined my love for basketball (not to mention my life), but looking back, those dark years were worth Ben Howland. I think the same will be true for Neuheisel. The Dorrell years were tough, but I think the new establishment will make all the sadness disappear. Why do I think this? Because coach called me.

Go Bruins!!!

MADE IN GOD'S IMAGE - COACHES

2007-12-22T21:53:00.000-06:00

Deuteronomy 4:24 For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.

God and jealousy don't seem like words that belong in the same sentence. Jealousy usually has a negative connotation. We usually think of jealousy in terms of envy and disdain. But God's jealousy is not negative. It is actually one of the most humbling compliments he could give us.

God's jealousy is a complex passion for our good. It is an intimate commitment to our well-being. It is a fiery refusal to be indifferent to our weaknesses and deficiencies. God refuses to sit by and
casually watch us settle for a mediocrity.

Coaches (good ones) provide an excellent picture of this type of love. Athletics are a microcosm of life. Pride and complacency are traps faced everyday. Highs change to lows in a matter of seconds. Selfishness is always threatening everything.

It is a coach's job to teach players to find a way to make the most of their individual abilities in the midst of the battle. The best coaches mix strength and gentleness, toughness and grace, the highest demands with great understanding. Coaches should have an intense refusal to allow their players to settle for less than their best, and at the same time love the players when they don't measure up. Coaches should get angry, not at their players, but for their players. The anger should be grounded in knowing what the players are capable of accomplishing.

This type of love cannot be given without deep knowledge of the players. Nobody can pretend to know what someone is capable of accomplishing. A fake will be identified quickly. Likewise, this type of love has to be sincere and unselfish. Virtuous jealousy is impossible with personal ambitions that outweigh value of the player.

So, next time you see Bobby Knight 'advise' a player on how to properly run motion offense or Bill Belichick gently reminding Rodney Harrison not to cheat, remember you're witnessing a glimpse of God's glory. He has chosen to reveal himself in the oddest of creatures - coaches.

Sports, Culture, and God's Glory

2007-12-15T11:52:00.000-06:00

I had a professor in college that was always talking about the lenses through which we see the world around us. He was the first to teach me that everybody has a worldview, or a foundation that lies at the root of how the rest of the world is seen and experienced. I have recently realized an inconsistency between my faith and my love of sports.

I heard these quotes from Kevin Twit in a lecture on Faith and Pop Culture:

"Even if you're not seeking to glorify God, if you're a Christian or a non-Christian, you're using stuff that God made to glorify himself, and his glory still breaks through. You can't help it. I tell people (and sometimes Christians get upset) that Marilyn Manson uses the creativity God gave him to curse his name. He can't help it. He probably wouldn't be happy about me saying that. "

"Everything fails to glorify God as it should and nothing fails to glorify God at some level because he has left himself with a witness."

Twit didn't comment on sports in his lecture, but he could have. Sports has taken on a dominant role in our culture. I have heard athletes compared to the gladiators of old. While I see the similarities, I think there is a greater connection between athletes and the ancient gods than the ancient gladiators.

Think about what we want from athletes. We want greatness with humility, power with grace, transcendence with nearness. We don't want to watch a game. We want to worship. No wonder athletes (from middle schoolers to professionals) are screwed up. We have elevated worshipers to the place of receiving worship. We have traded the Creator for His creation.

The easy (and thoughtless) solution to the problem is to just label sports as bad and avoid competition so we don't get tangled up in sin and idolatry. But to do that would be neglecting to give God the glory he is due for his creation (aka - sin).

Athletes are amazing. It takes skill and grace to hit a 90 mile-an-hour fastball, shoot a 20 foot jump-shot, or perform an Olympic dive. The men and women who are gifted enough to do these things were made by the God who knew them and formed them in their mother's womb. They were knitted together by and for the Lord of the universe. Every good gift, including passes, shots, and dunks is from God. Athletes, like trees, rivers, artists, and the rest of God's creation are here for his glory.

So, if you love sports, thank and worship God. He is Lord of all, even free-throws.

Role Playing - I Wanted it to be You

2007-12-12T14:12:00.001-06:00

I moved from Southern California to Nashville almost fifteen years ago, and I am still FASCINATED by SEC football fans. You cannot truly understand what it is like unless you have lived here.

I work with a Tennessee fan and a Georgia fan. They are both women and were converted by Tebow's Heisman speech. They told me how badly they wanted to hate him, but their hatred of Florida wasn't strong enough to keep them for falling for Tim. He was what they always wanted. Sure, Peyton came off squeaky clean, but I don't remember any prison ministry. And I guess Georgia had David Green, but still he was no Tim Tebow. As I was listening to them explain how they had fallen for the one they had hated three days earlier I thought of this movie clip from my wife's favorite movie.

So, for your first installment of Role Playing:

Meg Ryan will be playing the role of all SEC mothers and daughters

Tom Hanks will be playing Tim Tebow.

Too bad his dog isn't a bulldog or a hound.

Asterisks and 'The Mitchell Report'

2007-12-12T08:50:00.000-06:00

I have been kicking around the idea of starting a sports website for about a year. I have wrestled with whether or not I should just write about sports on my Abundant Redemption site or just create another site. I firmly believe God is Lord and King of all, including sports. So, I don't think I would be compromising Abundant Redemption by writing about sports from time to time, but everyone has told me that you need to be specific for people to want to read your site. In that vein, I decided it would be best to just create another site and link between the two.

So, I had my idea, but I haven't really had the time, motivation, or ideas for the actual posts lately. That all changed yesterday because of steroids.

I have had a cold for three weeks. I was trying to just ride it out, but I woke up yesterday and decided I needed to go see a doctor. I was sick of feeling sick. The doctor listened to my breathing, looked in my ears, and told me to bend over. I wasn't expecting number three. Anyway, it was a Cortizone shot and it worked and worked and worked. I went to bed at 8:00 last night. I didn't even have a name for the new website. Between 8 and 6:24 I slept about three hours. Lots of time to think. I think I wrote about six posts in my head during the night.

Tomorrow 'The Mitchell Report' is supposed to be released. I don't think they will mention steroid using bloggers, but just to beat them to the punch if they do, I wanted to let you know this website needs an asterisk. I'm not sure if it ever would have happened without the use of performance enhancing drugs. I hope you will still read.

I can tell you I never knowingly took steroids.

Here are some before and after shots.

The only real difference is now I bat left-handed.