Monday, March 14, 2022
Issue No. 424
|
|
Publisher: Christopher Weills
Marketing Director: Robert Moselle
Director of Sales: Ann Cooke
Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee. Kenny Karst (retired).
Contributors: Steve Chain, Harvey Cohen, Andy Dolich, Pete Elman, Rob Flammia, Bruce Macgowan, Robert Moselle, Dave Newhouse, Howard Pearlstein, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff, Shelia Young
|
|
St. Louis Cardinals Lou Brock, Boston Red Sox Carl Yastrzemski, and
Philadelphia Phillies Pete Rose at the 1979 All-Star Game in Seattle
|
|
"If the people don't wanna come out to the ballpark, nobody's gonna stop 'em."
-- Yogi Berra
|
|
Letters to the Editor
Sports Today Readers!
Due to our late Sunday publishing requirements, commentary is limited, but Sports Today CONGRATULATES all WCC and Western-based teams and wishes them all success!
One quick Point of Privilege: Thanks NCAA – You put both USF AND Saint Mary's in the East? We'd rather have the opportunity for them to meet in the finals!
However, we are glad our WCC friends are ready to ROCK the Tournament!
Sports Today Staff
Nate Sudfeld: Mr. Inevitable Is "In The House!"
WOW! Maiocco and Team LA-Z-BOY have finally discovered that Nate Sudfeld is a 49er QB! A day late and $2 million short.
Sports Today profiled Sudfeld LAST YEAR, while the Maiocco and
LA-Z-BOY crowd and the KNBR clones debated Jimmy G vs. Trey Lance, ad nauseum: (to be noted -- in hours of KNBR drive time, the ONLY person I heard even reference Nate, and it was to mention his capacity as a capable QB backup, was Larry Krueger -- Tru Dat!).
"The Nate Sudfeld Story: He'll Make You Forget Nick Mullen" is just above from 10/24/21 in Sports Today! If you haven't subscribed, get crackin'! Get Real! (Link is below.)
Jerry Monkman
South San Francisco
We Want Larry!
I read last week's Letter request for ex-KNBR personality Larry Krueger to contribute to Sports Today.
In the words of Smokey Robinson, "I Second that Emotion." Write on, Larry!
Kristen LaRue
San Francisco
|
|
Contents
Columns
Hardly Trivial by T. Buff
Games
Cal Bears 5, Arizona Wildcats 13
Oakland Roots 0, Rio Grande Valley FC 1
San Jose Earthquakes 0, Philadelphia Union 2
Santa Cruz Warriors 110, G League Ignite 107
Features & Commentary
A Million Bucks Ain't What It Used To Be, by Howard Pearlstein
Remembering A Very Special Colleague, by Dave Newhouse
Rick Barry, One of the Best, by Bruce Macgowan
Sports Guru answers Questions
Sports Haiku ©️ -- A Warriors-World Formula for Success
They Say it’s Your Birthday, Happy Birthday to You, by Pete Elman
USA and Béisbol – Se Habla Español, by Amaury Pi-Gonzalez
Organizations
San Francisco Giants
San Jose State Spartans
Saint Mary's Gaels (M)
Stanford Cardinal (W)
USF Dons (M & W)
WeatherTech Raceway Launga Seca
|
|
NCAA Tournament Bound!
Saint Mary's Gaels & USF Dons
|
|
Saint Mary's guard Logan Johnson (0) catches a high pass over San Francisco guard Jamaree Bouyea (1) during the second half in an NCAA college basketball game in San Francisco, Calif., Thursday, Jan. 27, 2022. Final score: Saint Mary's Gaels 72, USF Dons 70. Click here for an annotated Facebook album
|
|
NIT Tournament Bound!
Santa Clara Broncos
|
|
Santa Clara guard Jalen Williams (24) shoots while being defended by San Francisco forward Patrick Tape during the first half in an NCAA college basketball game in San Francisco, Calif., Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022. To view an annotated Facebook album, click here. Caption and photo
|
|
NCAA Tournament Bound!
Stanford Cardinal
|
|
Stanford guard Jana Van Gytenbeek (4) is congratulated by guard Brooke Demetre (21) after making a 3 point basket during the second quarter against Arizona in an NCAA college basketball game in Stanford, Calif., Sunday, Jan. 30, 2022. To view an annotated Facebook album click here.
|
|
NIT Tournament Bound!
USF Dons
|
|
November 13, 2021; San Francisco, CA; San Francisco Dons guard Amalie Langer (5) dribbles while being defended by California Golden Bears guard Jazlen Green (10) during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. To view an annotated Facebook album click here. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.
|
|
Santa Cruz Warriors 110
G League Ignite 107
Sunday, March 13
|
|
Golden State Warriors center James Wiseman recorded 19 points and 14 rebounds in a rehab assignment with the Santa Cruz Warriors. The Sea Dubs defeated the G League Ignite in overtime, 110-107, on Sunday, March 13 at Chase Center. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.
|
|
Guard Quinndary Weatherspoon led the team with 24 points, while also contributing six rebounds and six assists. Caption and photo
|
|
Lawrence Fan
Sports Information Director
San Jose State Spartans
|
|
Lawrence Fan, San Jose State's revered and long-time Sports Information Director, passed away at the age of 67 several weeks ago. A Celebration of Life memorial will be held on Saturday, April 9, at CEFCU Stadium. The service is open to the public and begins at 10 a.m. Those wishing to attend can park in the Park And Ride Lot
on Seventh Street
|
|
Remembering A Very Special Colleague
By Dave Newhouse
|
|
Journalists are taught to be stoic when writing about subject matters, to avoid showing favoritism or other personal emotions which might cloud their reportage. But it’s hard to be stoic when writing about Lawrence Fan, and even harder not to show favoritism.
Fan, the longtime popular Sports Information Director at San Jose State University, died unexpectedly on Feb. 21 at 67. And those closest to him, which seems like everyone within the San Jose city limits and beyond, are heartbroken.
“Losing him left a big hole in the hearts of everyone who knew him,” said San Jose State head football coach Brent Brennan. “It’s been devastating because he worked so well with everyone. But what made him so special was that he always gave without asking for anything in return.”
Fan’s unselfish nature was only part of the reason why he lasted 42 years as the Spartans’ SID. Competence and caring were other longevity factors.
Brennan couldn’t contain his emotion in speaking of Fan.
“He was with me at the best and the worst times of my coaching,” he said. “His work ethic was scary. I’d get a text from him at 5:30 a.m. or at midnight, even in the off season. He’s the guy who found the perfect place for himself in the world, and he left a permanent impression. The outpouring of affection for him has been amazing."
|
|
Lawrence Fan receiving the CoSIDA President’s Award in 2017
from president Andy Seeley
San Jose State coaches, players past and present, faculty, general populace, SID colleagues, and media members are all crestfallen over losing Fan, who touched all of their lives. For his impressive work, he was inducted into the CoSIDA (College Sports Information Directors of America) Hall of Fame in 2012.
Fan, a San Francisco native who graduated from UC Berkeley, began working at San Jose State in 1980. He endeared himself to media members with his professionalism and his kitchen skills — his “Fan cakes,” which he baked and served to media covering Spartan basketball games.
“Lawrence was a Bay Area sports public relations icon,” said Bob Rose, a retired SID himself from Stanford, Cal, the San Francisco Giants and Oakland A’s. “San Jose State was lucky to have such a loyal, humble, and service-oriented person as its SID for so many continuous years. We really lost a piece of Bay Area sports with his passing.”
|
|
Lawrence Fan in his element...
Fan’s impact, in fact, will be felt on Saturday, April 9 at 10 a.m. when his memorial service won’t take place in a church or community hall but at CEFCU Stadium on the SJSU campus at 10 a.m. Parking will be available at Park And Ride lot on Seventh Street for the expected large turnout.
Mark Purdy, retired San Jose Mercury News columnist and a San Jose Sports Hall Of Fame inductee, was appreciative of Fan’s commitment to his work.
“I can’t think of anyone who did his job —in any field or business — with more dedication,” said Purdy. “It’s hard to imagine San Jose State sports without Lawrence Fan. He was just always there. You’d call him at his office at 10 at night and he was there. You’d call him at 8 in the morning and he was there.”
Purdy recalled 1997 when San Jose State was the host school for NCAA regional basketball games played at what’s now the SAP Center. Fan was in charge of the tournament’s media operation.
“He literally never left the property the entire weekend,” Purdy said. “He was in the press room until the security people locked it up at night, then slept in his car in the arena parking lot, then went back into the building as soon as it opened up in the morning. He didn’t want anything to go wrong with San Jose State’s reputation on the line, even though it had no team in the event.”
Such dedication, Purdy suggests, is why San Jose State should name its football press box after Fan, who worked 501 consecutive SJSU football games through 2021.
Fan was a lifetime bachelor who was wedded to his work — a four-decade “marital” bliss with San Jose State, but a relationship which sadly ended too soon.
* * *
Dave Newhouse's journalism career spans more than half a century, including 45 years at the Oakland Tribune before his retirement in November 2011. His most recent book, The Yankee Way, is available in bookstores and on amazon.com. Dave grew up in Menlo Park, graduated from San Jose State, and has radio and television experience, in addition to his work as an award-winning sportswriter and columnist. For earlier articles by Dave published in
Sports Today, click HERE.
|
|
Lawrence Fan appeared on the cover of CoSIDA, the industry publication for College Sports Information Directors of America,
in the summer of 2017.
|
|
San José State Spartans Earns 2021-22 Mountain West SAAC Community Service Award
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- The Mountain West presented San José State Director of Athletics Jeff Konya with the 2021-22 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Community Service Award on Wednesday at halftime of the Spartans' men's basketball tournament game.
Led by Assistant AD for Student-Athlete Development Tobruk Blaine, Beyond Sparta Coordinator Annalisa Duarte and SAAC Executive Board member Jada Mazury from women's gymnastics, the Spartans spent nearly 9,000 hours of community service over the last year to capture this prestigious award for the first time in school history.
"At the forefront of our Beyond Sparta program is a culture of volunteerism," said Blaine. "Through the Inspire Pillar of the program, our student-athletes strive to inspire themselves and others through the act of service. As a department, we build champions in the classroom, competition, and in the community; resulting in student-athletes creating a championship life. We are proud of our student-athletes as they will always rise to the occasion and support multiple important community outreach efforts; raising awareness and providing support to individuals who may otherwise not have the resources."
- Over 8,923 hours of community service
- Nearly $255,000 in economic impact from donations and service
- There were 145 opportunities for coaches, staff and student-athletes to participate
- All 22 sports at SJSU participated in some type of community service
- Over 200 sports bras were donated to the Bill Wilson Center benefiting local female youth experiencing homelessness
- Over 7,200 produces were donated during the Sanitary Product Drive, benefiting local females who access the Spartan Food Pantry and the Next Door Solutions
- Over 140 toys were donated for the Holiday Toy Drive benefiting local youth in need partnering with the San Jose African-American Community Service agency
#SpartanUp
|
|
Hardly Trivial by T. Buff
|
|
Sponsoring products is one of the ways athletes
can make a few bucks...
Wheaties has been recruiting athletes to appear on their boxes for a very long time. Who was the first athlete to appear on a box of Wheaties?
Because of the difficulty of the question, a big hint
is his being a New York Yankee!
(See answer below...)
|
|
The San Francisco Giants are excited to announce that Lady Gaga will be performing at Oracle Park on Thursday, September 8, 2022
This summer’s tour promises to be a full-scale, Lady Gaga pop show featuring fan favorite hits and the first ever public live performances from the #1 selling, critically-acclaimed, and GRAMMY-winning 2020 album Chromatica.
Join us in San Francisco for Lady Gaga presents The Chromatica Ball. Tickets go on sale starting Monday, March 14.
|
|
|
USA and
Béisbol – Se Habla Español
By Amaury Pi-Gonzalez
|
|
The most recent U.S. Census (2020) lists Hispanics/Latinos as the largest minority in the United States. Around 18.7% of the U.S. total population speaks Spanish, which is 62.1 million people, making the U.S. the second-largest country in the world with Spanish-speaking people.
México is #Uno and then the U.S. #Dos. As a matter of fact, the U.S. has more people who speak Spanish than Argentina and Colombia (two Latin American countries), each with just over 40 million Spanish speakers.
The U.S. also “Habla Béisbol” when it comes to the Boys of Summer. Among all 30 major league teams, at least 32% of all players are Hispanics/Latinos, which comprises the largest minority. Among all 50 states, California leads the way as of the 2020 census, with approximately 16 million Hispanic/Latinos in California.
Many will argue that because of “documentation reasons,” (not full disclosure) the state of California might have close to 20 million or more people who speak Spanish, which would be around half of the population of the Golden State.
As far as Spanish-speaking Béisbol fans, according to statista.com, over 20% of MLB fans in the United States are Hispanic/Latino. Total breakdown of the Ethnicity of MLB fans:
- 53% White, 29% Hispanic/Latinos, 17% African-Americans and 5% Other
- Our two MLB teams here in the Bay Area, according to statista.com: Oakland A’s 53% White, 25% Hispanic/Latinos, 17% African-American and 5% Other
- San Francisco Giants 54% White, 25% Hispanic/Latino, 16% African-American and 5% Other
- The other three Southern California teams lead the way when it comes to Hispanic Latino fans
- Los Angeles Dodgers 51% White, 29% Hispanic/Latinos, 16% African-American and 4% Other
- Los Angeles Angels 49% White, 29% Hispanic/Latinos, 19% African-American and 5% Other
- San Diego Padres, 56% White, 26% Hispanic/Latino, 14% African-American and 4% Other
Hispanic Latino buying power has grown substantially over the last 30 years, from $213 billion in 1990 to $1.9 trillion in 2020. Hispanic buying power accounted for 11.1% of U.S. buying power in 2020, up from only 5% in 1990.
The Selig Center for Economic Growth at the University of Georgia’s Business School lists the total buying power of the U.S. Hispanic population at $1.539 trillion in 2018 and adding more than $500 billion since 2010 and is expected to grow to nearly $400 billion more by 2023.
At this time, after the CBA was ratified, dozens of Hispanic/Latino players left their homes for Spring Training, not only here in the U.S., but also from many Latin American countries where Béisbol is King, heading to their camps in Arizona and Florida.
* * *
Amaury Pi-Gonzalez is Vice President of the Major League Baseball Hispanic Heritage Hall of Fame Museum and does News and Commentary at http://www.sportsradioservice.com.
For earlier articles by Amaury Pi-Gonzalez published in
Sports Today, click HERE.
|
|
Rick Barry
Golden State Warrior
1965-67, 1972-78
|
|
Rick Barry -- One of the Best
by Bruce Macgowan
Here he is, Number 24, the greatest player in the history of the San Francisco/Golden State Warriors. With all due respect to the brilliant Stephen Curry, who is one of the greats of recent years, Rick Barry was the BEST all around player of his era; terrific shooter from deep as well as medium distance range, one of the game’s best passers and one of the league’s top defenders.
I had a pleasure during my near 20-year stint at all-sports radio KNBR in San Francisco of working with Rick for five years when he was with us doing an afternoon talk show in KNBR. We became good friends and stay in touch to this day.
The first pro sports team I ever covered was the Cinderella 1974-75 Warriors who came out of nowhere to win their first west coast NBA title.
My good friend, Al ‘The Destroyer’ Attles, was the coach. Rick was the star and guys like rookie Keith Wilkes, center Clifford Ray, and guards Phil Smith and Charles Johnson were smart and selfless.
“That was a team that cared about each other,” Rick once told me.
“We got along so well. We were like a family.”
Barry led the team in scoring that year, averaging around 30 points a game. Rick turned 78 just last week and still keeps very busy. Two of his sons, Brett and Jon both had respectable NBA careers and Rick is rightfully proud.
* * *
Long-time Bay Area sportscaster Bruce Macgowan has been recording his 45 years of broadcast experience for a forthcoming book to be published shortly. For earlier articles by Macgowan, published in
Sports Today, click HERE.
|
|
Haiku: A traditional Japanese haiku is a three-line poem with seventeen syllables, written in a 5/7/5 syllable count. Sports Today! has expanded Haikus to embrace our readership and invites you to submit your own. Top entries will be published!
Thank you for your many entries!
Hidden deep within the Chase Center lies a Laboratory accessible only to those with top-secret clearance. Known only as "The Sanctum," it is the facility where formulae for new ideas are conceived, developed and assessed for experimentation in Warriors-World.
After extensive research, one such formula was developed and has now been implemented:
a unique blend of talent, intellect, and unique physical abilities. It has been developed into:
|
|
A Warriors-World Formula for Success
Moody Kuminga
JTA x GP2
Looney Poole Porter
|
|
* * *
Contributed by Robert Moselle, Monterey, CA
As noted in the USG's own Haiku below, we invite entries for
"Best Sports Haiku." The winner will be published!
Sports Haikus ©️ USG/Sports Today's Haiku Invitation
Ultimate Sports Guide
Wants to Publish Your Haiku
You must send it in
|
|
|
Let the
Sports Guru address your unfathomable quandaries...
|
|
Dear Sports Guru -- Question: What is wrong with the Warriors?
Answer: This has been, by far, the question most posed by Sports Today readers this week -- understandable, as there is a deep attachment to our Warriors and concern about a recent slump. This question, however, presupposes that there is an objective, Almanac type answer to it, as if it asked, what is the capital of Missouri? Such a question does not presuppose the elements of space, time, and intuition in an answer.
Sports Guru's answers do incorporate these elements. The Wright Brothers and Thomas Edison, who "knew" concepts, like flight or artificial light, took their intuitions to factories where they worked tirelessly to test and ultimately perfect and implement their intuitions.
So it is with Coach Steve Kerr. Coach Kerr intuitively knows what is right, and his factory is the basketball court. Intuition has its own clock -- Coach's ideas may arrive at 3:00* a.m. (like many of those of Sports Guru -- unplanned, unscheduled, but worthy of exploration).
He studies them and tests them on the arena floor. Nevertheless, it must be noted, even ideal plans can be frustrated by unexpected acts, such as an irrational suspension of a star player (see Draymond Green in the playoff finals), or like a bird which might have flown into the Wright Brothers' first plane.
So while there are no X's and O's answers to the question posed, take some comfort in this: the Answer already exists, in space and time.
There's nothing hidden anywhere; it's all there to be sought. Steve Kerr and his intuition will find it and, with his team, like Edison and the Wright Brothers and their believers, they will work on the factory floor and shape it into the reality of Warriors' perfection. For those who prefer a more mundane, linear approach, Jefferson City, informally Jeff City, is the capital of the U.S. state of Missouri. May we all share in the success of the Warriors.
*Note: A 3:00 a.m. moment. The uncanny accuracy of Sports Guru's answer was swiftly confirmed by Coach Kerr's intuitive powers, as the Warriors crushed the Clippers, 112-97. The day after Sports Guru's article was submitted, Steve Kerr arranged to have Jackie Moon/Will Ferrell warm up with the Warriors, to the surprise of Klay Thompson. Said Klay, ''That was so cool, dreams do come true.''
Dear Sports Guru -- Question: What is wrong with the Warriors?
Answer: Yes, there is a theme to this week's question. Let Sports Guru remind you of the words of an American Founder, Benjamin Franklin:
“For the want of a nail the shoe was lost,
For the want of a shoe the horse was lost,
For the want of a horse the rider was lost,
For the want of a rider the battle was lost,
For the want of a battle the kingdom was lost,
And all for the want of a horseshoe-nail.”
Draymond Green is a Horseshoe Nail.
|
|
|
Watch any program on CCE's YouTube channel, or, for attorneys, earn MCLE credits online, economically, with "The Best in Topics and Talent."
Center for Continuing Education, Monterey, CA is a State Bar of California MCLE approved Provider, #8450
|
|
Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole combine for 68 points in win over Bucks as Warriors extend win streak to three games
They Say it’s Your Birthday,
Happy Birthday to You
by Pete Elman
Last Thursday night was just another mid-week game in Denver in the dog days of a long NBA season. The visitors had been struggling mightily without their all-world defender, coach on the floor and soul of the team.
To describe Draymond Green’s return for tonight’s match against the Wizards as long awaited is an understatement; he has missed 30 games. But they may have righted the ship.
Thursday was one of those games that may not be remembered as a key victory, but it was, on more than one level. The final score, 113-102 over the Nuggets, does not tell the whole story.
The Warriors were coming off a much needed feel-good win Tuesday-- led by young stars Jordan Poole and Jonathan Kuminga-- over a beleaguered Clippers team missing its two stars.
Thursday, up against an exhausted but competitive Nuggets squad playing their fourth game in five nights and on the tail end of a back-to-back, the Warriors looked awful in the first half, fouling, missing shots and playing matador defense, disturbing patterns
of late.
Trailing by nine at the half, the team came out of the locker room looking like the real Warriors. Led by Steph Curry and Kuminga, they ran off a 37-point quarter and were up 88-84. They pushed the lead to eight, but Denver, behind MVP Nikola Jokic--playing on fumes -- took back the lead, 102-100, with 3:10 left. The bad feeling surfaced -- will they blow this one?
But Steph went to work, making two buckets and an assist to a wide-open Poole, who has been on fire lately. The 22-year-old sharpshooter put the dagger into the Nuggets with two wide-open threes, and in an instant it was over, the game ending on a 13-0 Warrior run.
Something else happened Thursday.
Unhappy with how the NBA rescheduled its December 30 game against the Nuggets, Steve Kerr didn’t send his top three players to Denver last Monday. Despite that, they nearly pulled that game out, led by the youth brigade; Moses Moody, Kuminga and Poole, who played 100 minutes and scored 78 points between them. They lit it up for 124, but gave up 131. They need Draymond.
This past Thursday they returned to Denver for that makeup game. Not only did they win it in dramatic fashion, but Steph created the memory of a lifetime for one little girl. PJ O'Byrne is a Warriors fan; she was at Monday's 131-124 loss to the Nuggets at Ball Arena, the game in which Curry was not on hand for.
On December 31, PJ turned ten years old. The one thing she wanted for her birthday was to go to a Warriors game and watch her favorite player. In attendance with a homemade sign just for number 30 on Monday night, PJ was visibly upset that Steph wasn't there. Her heartbreak went viral and inspired the Warriors to invite her to Thursday's game, giving her a courtside seat. This time, Steph was playing and made sure to stop by before the game and say hello.
|
|
Ten-year-old PJ O'Byrne had her dream of meeting Steph Curry come true last Thursday before the Warriors vs. Nuggets game in Denver
“I'm sorry about Monday, but we made it up right?” said Steph. “Hope you have a good time tonight,” he added sweetly to a tearful, overwhelmed PJ, who was sitting courtside. “I'm so glad that you love basketball.”
Upon seeing the short clip of the interaction between Curry and O’Byrne, Twitter showed the love. “OMG, I’m not crying…” followed by “…Same here--just an itch in my eye…both eyes.”
After the game, Curry spoke about making a young fan's dreams come true. “That’s what the NBA is all about; our fans are everything,” Curry said, “It makes it all worth it.” 38 bruising minutes, 34 points and nine rebounds later, Steph would not let his beloved team lose—not in front of one of his biggest fans.
And on Saturday, behind that momentum and back home, they were in payback mode, putting a bigtime 122-109 (and it was not that close) whupping on the defending champion Bucks. Some guy named Thompson had his best game in six years, lighting up the Chase Center for 38. The league is on notice. He’s back.
The Warriors are rising like a Phoenix; and they will have to get past a loaded Phoenix team to have a shot at ring number five. Oh yeah, by the way, the cavalry is coming. Tonight Draymond and Otto Porter return, followed by Iggy, hopefully Payton, and, finally, after a year, James Wiseman. There is reason to be optimistic.
And Curry? Saturday he only scored eight points, but his unselfishness enabled Klay and Poole to combine for 68 points, 13 bombs, 12 boards, 10 assists and a plus-minus of 53. Steph doesn’t care who gets the glory—just win baby.
He is still the nullifier. Thursday night it was the Nuggets, Saturday Milwaukee.
More importantly, he nullified the heartbreak of one little girl—and then some. For those cynics who don’t believe that pro athletes should be heroes and role models, maybe you should talk to young PJ O’Byrne. The fans love their team, and they love Steph. And the feelings are mutual. But what gets often overlooked is how much he loves his team.
Steph Curry is a class act. Will he take us to the Promised Land one more time? And hey, if it doesn’t work out, well that doesn’t change a damn thing…because he is our guy, always and forever.
Today my father would have turned 104. Today one Wardell Stephen Curry II turns 34. To both of them: They say it’s your birthday. Happy birthday to you.
Pete Elman
The Town
March 14, 2022
* * * * *
From 2000-2011 Elman wrote a column for the Oakland Athletics Fan Coalition and covered sports for the Bay Area News Group. In 2013 he penned an acclaimed children's book and recently co-authored a book on unsung minority athletes entitled In the Shadow of Obscurity; Toiling in a Reluctant Society. He is currently teaching 13 courses on popular music and sports at Bay Area colleges. For earlier articles by Elman published in the Ultimate Sports Guide, click HERE.
|
|
A Million Bucks Ain't What
It Used To Be
by Howard Pearlstein
Not taking a side in the current MLB "elementary school kids at recess" fight over money and such, BUT just wanting to point out something about the difference between professional athletes' paper income and actual income, whether it be MLB or NBA or NFL or Hockey or Soccer or whatever, etc...
Those big salaries -- the journalists get all "LOOK AT THIS! MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTS!" about it, as if journalists were still 19th Century "poor ink-stained wretches."
Well, okay. Say Jack Super Jock signs for a million dollars, which wouldn't even make the news, but I use it because my math skills are limited to something way down near "special needs."
So, for a one million dollar contract right off the top comes 59.3%. (Federal taxes are 37%, plus in California, another 12.3%.) This leaves $407,000, or just a hair above the Biden tax middle class cutoff level. (You know, "No one making under $400k will pay one penny more in taxes.”)
OK, still not too shabby, but there's the manager's commission of 10% from the full million --- so now we're down to $307,000.
AND, like members of congress, pro athletes often have to pay for two residences. (Unlike politicians, the athlete can't lie about job performance -- the statistics are right out there for all to see.)
One other thing -- that income may need to last a lifetime, anywhere from one year to five or maybe seven or ten years. (Unless you're Tom Brady or Bill Russell or Kareem or Andre Iguodala, i.e. a rare exception.)
And the other side of the salary are the owners. I quote someone I knew when in Texas, who happened to have an income of a million dollars a day (born into oil money) and who summed it up: "My family didn't get that rich by being nice guys."
The owners may have tax accountants who get a million dollars a year.
So, using a sports term to sum it up – 'It's not a level playing field.'
Howard Pearlstein
Oakland, CA
|
|
Cal Bears 5
Arizona Wildcats 13
Sunday, March 13
|
|
Throwing out the first pitch is Stu Gordon, for whom the Stadium has just been renamed in his honor. The Golden Bears played host to the Arizona Wildcats at Stu Gordon Stadium on Sunday, March 13 in Berkeley. Final score:
|
|
Getting the early call from Cal manager Mike Neu, 6’-5” right-handed pitcher Conner Sullivan (#5) gets the ball while his teammates offer encouragement. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.
|
|
San Jose Earthquakes 0
Philadelphia Union 2
Saturday, March 12
|
|
MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 0, Philadelphia Union 2
Rookies Ousseni Bouda, Will Richmond and Niko Tsakiris
make MLS debuts
SAN JOSE, Calif. - The San Jose Earthquakes fell to the Philadelphia Union 2-0 on a frigid Saturday night at Subaru Park in Chester, Penn. Rookie midfielders Ousseni Bouda, Will Richmond and 16-year-old Niko Tsakiris made their MLS debuts in the match.
Philadelphia took the lead in the 23rd minute through Cory Burke before doubling their advantage in the 58th minute on a penalty kick by Daniel Gazdag.
The Earthquakes will now return to San Jose for a week of training before hitting the road to face Minnesota United FC on Saturday, March 19. Kickoff from Allianz Field is set for 5 p.m. PT and the match will be broadcast on NBC Sports California, KNBR 1050, and 1370 KZSF.
MEDIA ASSETS
GAME NOTES
- The Earthquakes currently hold a 0-2-1 record (1 pts.) during the 2022 MLS regular season.
- The Quakes now hold a 4-5-4 all-time record against the Philadelphia Union, including a 2-3-2 record on the road.
- Three Quakes rookies made their MLS debuts in the match: Ousseni Bouda (SuperDraft), Will Richmond (Homegrown), and 16-year-old Niko Tsakiris (Homegrown). All three entered the match as second-half substitutions.
- Niko Tsakiris became the third youngest player to appear in an MLS match for San Jose (16 years, 267 days).
MATCH INFORMATION
MLS Regular Season, Philadelphia Union 2 - 0 San Jose Earthquakes, March 12, 2022 - Subaru Park in Chester, Penn.
Scoring Summary:
PHI (1-0) - Cory Burke (Sergio Santos) 23', PHI (2-0) - Daniel Gazdag (penalty) 58'
Misconduct Summary:
SJ - Cristian Espinoza (caution) 11', SJ - Eric Remedi (caution) 26', PHI - Sergio Santos (caution) 27', PHI - Daniel Gazdag (caution) 43', PHI - Nathan Harriel (caution) 62', SJ - Ousseni Bouda (caution) 90+2'
PHILADELPHIA UNION: Andre Blake; Jack Elliott, Jakob Glesnes, Nathan Harriel, Kai Wagner; Daniel Gazdag (Quinn Sullivan 82), Jose Martinez, Alejandro Bedoya ©, Leon Flach (Matthew Real 90); Sergio Santos, Cory Burke (Paxton Aaronson 68). Substitutes not used: Jesus Bueno, Brandan Craig, Matt Freese, Olivier Mbaizo, Jack McGlynn
SHOTS: 19; SHOTS ON GOAL: 7; FOULS: 16; CORNER KICKS: 9; SAVES: 1
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES: JT Marcinkowski; Marcos Lopez, Francisco Calvo, Jackson Yueill ©, Paul Marie (Will Richmond 68); Jan Gregus, Eric Remedi; Benji Kikanovic (Ousseni Bouda 68), Chofis (Niko Tsakiris 77), Cristian Espinoza (Tommy Thompson 86); Jeremy Ebobisse.Substitutes not used: Oskar Ågren, Tanner Beason, Matt Bersano, Judson
SHOTS: 7; SHOTS ON GOAL: 4; FOULS: 15; CORNER KICKS: 5; SAVES: 4
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES HEAD COACH MATIAS ALMEYDA
On no goals from open play yet so far:
"We tried to create goal-scoring opportunities. We knew that if we attacked through the right flank, our intention was to finish the play through the left flank because they all slide over quite a bit leaving the other side open. From what I've seen, there was a lot of pressure on our half. But when you press like that that you leave the opposite side open. We tried to move the ball from side to side quickly. That way, we could attack and combine with Paul Marie and Cristian Espinoza on one side and then Benji Kikanovic and Marcos Lopez on the other side. We had control of the match. In the second half, that's when we had clear goal scoring opportunities. But today, we were lacking the depth to be able to hurt Philadelphia. Philadelphia beat us out wide and we lost them in the box. In our best phase, the referee called a penalty kick against us. And after the penalty kick, they defended a bit more and we were trying to push forward and look for the attack which created opportunities and we weren't able to put them away."
On rookies making professional debuts:
"I like it when youngsters play. I think there are moments when youngsters play. There are moments where the team is winning, and that's the time to play the youngsters. It makes me happy for them because they reached their dream, but I really would prefer for them to carry out their careers and for them to come in when the team is winning. We had to play them because of the absences of Cade Cowell and Jamiro Monteiro."
On Jackson Yueill playing center back:
"When I arrived, Jackson was one of the players that had played very few minutes. And when a coach plays a player as a center back, a full back, a number 10 and a holding midfielder, that's because he likes that player. When one plays their entire life in the middle of the field, they're ready to resolve situations in milliseconds. When the midfielder goes on to play as a center back, that player then has all the time in the world and a panoramic view and he can drive onto the opposition's half. That's why I put Jackson there knowing his original position is a different one. I spoke about it with him. With Nathan's absence, I asked him to fulfill that spot. Jackson's going to turn 25. The day that he's 31, he's going to thank me for playing him in different positions."
|
|
|
Advertise in Sports Today!
* Reach thousands of fans on a weekly basis
* Economical rates
* Sponsorship opportunities
|
|
Ann Cooke, Director of Sales
|
|
"Good things come to those who wait"
The Guinness is pouring well and honestly we can't drink it all by ourselves so join us. Open Monday through Thursday at 4pm. Friday through Sunday at 12pm. Happy Hour 4pm to 6pm. Look forward to seeing all your smiling
faces once again.
|
|
Editor's Note
Have a favorite Sports Moment you would like to share?
With perhaps a photo or two? Send a brief description along with any photos and we'll make room. Why not bring those memories to life?
|
|
Where The Bay Comes To Play!
|
|
Oakland Roots SC 0
Rio Grande Valley FC 1
Saturday, March 12
|
|
March 12, 2022
In the first game of the season Oakland Roots lost 1-0 on the road to Rio Grande Valley FC. The hosts took the lead in the 35th minute via Frank Lopez who found time on the ball to calmly slot it home. The striker was dangerous all night as the South Texas side controlled much of the first half. The best chance of the night for Oakland came just before the break when Lindo Mfeka fired his shot wide from close range. Oakland Roots battled hard after a formation change in the second half but were unable to create the chances they needed to level the match.
Oakland Roots now head to Memphis next Saturday before returning home for the home opener against Monterey on March 26th.
Head Coach Juan Guerra: First Game of the Season: what did you learn from tonight?
What hurts is that I didn't think we were us. We were working on certain things for five and half weeks and it took us too long to become who we are to become our identity, so that's what hurts the most. Not everything was negative. I saw some positives. At the end of the day we have to move on and there are still 33 matches left. We make sure we fix the things that didn't go well today and we start thinking of Memphis, tonight.
What is the first thing you would want to work on in training this week?
We have to make sure that we are brave, that we have courage, that we keep the ball in the opponent’s half. At times we were too eager to go forward and be vertical and it was at times not necessary. We lost possession of the ball too many times and we want to be a team that can keep the ball. Today was a good test for us. We start thinking of Memphis, and we move on.
You mentioned some positives: what were those positives you'd like to highlight?
It was good for us to transform for example. We changed the shape because we wanted to exploit other spaces that were available and the guys did it. So that was good. The team has the ability to tactically adapt, during games and that is important. I said to the guys it's just one game. I hate to lose and the boys hate to lose too and I'm sure we will be able to come back next week.
Oakland Roots SC at Rio Grande Valley FC
USL Championship | March 12, 2022; Venue: H-E-B Park, Edinburg, Texas
Kickoff: 5:30 PM; Weather: 52 degrees, clear skies
SCORELINE: 1-0 FT [RGV Win]
SCORING SUMMARY: RGV: 35’ F. López
DISCIPLINE SUMMARY:
OAK: 21’ C. Dennis (Yellow), RGV: 30’ J. Vázquez (Yellow), RGV: 53’ L. Malesevic (Yellow), RGV: 59’ I. Martinez (Yellow), OAK: 65’ L. Mfeka (Yellow), OAK: 82’ A. Fuenmayor (Yellow)
OAKLAND ROOTS LINEUP: Taylor Bailey, Memo Diaz, Alejandro Fuenmayor, Emrah Klimenta (Danny Barbir), Akeem Ward, Jose Hernandez, Joseph Nane, Charlie Dennis (Johnny Rodriguez), Juan Azocar, Lindo Mfeka (Jesus Enriquez), Darek Formella. Unused subs: Ariel Mbumba, Tarek Morad, Wolfgang Prentice, Paul Blanchette
Shots: 2 | Shots On Goal: 0 | Corner Kicks: 4 | Fouls: 13 | Offside: 2 |
RIO GRANDE VALLEY LINEUP: T. Deric, L. Malesevic (J. Ricketts), J. Vázquez, W. Ackwei, R. Coronado (S. Mueller), R. Ruiz, I. Martinez, E. Ycaza, J. Torres, F. López (D. Herrera), D. Borczak (D. Saez), Unused subs: J. Garcia, C. Miller
Shots: 13 | Shots On Goal: 1 | Corner Kicks: 6 | Fouls: 17 | Offside: 2 |
|
|
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
|
|
Pit lane was busy last August at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion as the FIA Manufacturers Championship Group readied for action. This year's event is looking to be the biggest and best of all time. Photo by Ken Manfred
Entry Requests for Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion Flexes its International Appeal
MONTEREY, Calif., Feb. 28, 2022—An expansive range of motorsport history will be showcased at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, Wednesday, Aug. 17 through Saturday, Aug. 20, with the excitement of historic race cars revving up on the track and in the open spectator-accessed race paddock. From the mighty “Ground effect” prototypes to the 10,000 RPM screaming Williams Formula One cars, nearly every race car make in the alphabet will be represented for guests’ enjoyment at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, which hosts the annual international gathering.
Complementing entries from 31 states across America are applications received from owners in Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. Despite last year’s reduced international contingent due to travel restrictions, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion was named a finalist as Motorsport Event of the Year in the Historic Motoring Awards for its commitment to accepting only authentic and period-correct cars.
Adding to the international spectacle is this year’s featured celebration—the 24 Hours of Le Mans—which is the kick-off to a yearlong 100th anniversary celebration that culminates at the renowned French Classic in June 2023. Known worldwide as a catalyst for developing technologies among the automakers, the most famous endurance race in the world attracts the best of the best. And in Monterey, the century of development of these magnificent cars will be center stage.
Of the 12 race groups, four Le Mans-specific groupings will be on track each day with races Friday and Saturday. They are divided by eras and begin with the 1923-1955 class and extend through the blindingly fast 1981-2005 purpose-built prototypes. The Monterey Motorsports Reunion Advisory Council is considering cars for these groups with Le Mans race history or eligibility in period.
Raising the overall experience to a new level is a special collection of the rarest and seldom seen cars being curated for the Le Mans Legends Display. Motul, which has a long history at Le Mans, is the presenting sponsor of this once in a lifetime gathering. This special collection will be front and center in an incredible display in the race paddock and is already comprised of 16 overall winners and 12 class winners. Many of these cars are no longer raced at vintage events, but the owners will share them on track in daily exhibitions.
This year, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion will be so much more than a race gathering. Non-race guests will enjoy the bustling paddock and seeing a museum throttle to life, but also the rejuvenated Hagerty Marketplace. New attractions include more locally-sourced food merchants, go-karts, expanded kids zone, and for adults, an El Jefe Tequila-themed lounge, and Monterey County wine court that features favorites from the acclaimed Carmel Valley and Salinas wine-growing corridors.
“Together with our experienced volunteers, Advisory Council members and professional staff, we are elevating the experience for all guests who enter the Laguna Seca Recreation Area,” explains John Narigi, president and general manager of Laguna Seca Recreation Area. “We have wide open spaces and every level of VIP packages to satisfy the discerning guests’ needs to make this year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion the most enjoyable and best yet. I encourage our neighbors to join us in experiencing everything our park has to offer during the exciting Monterey Car Week.”
A limited number of VIP ticket packages are available, while multiday, individual tickets and camping are available online at WeatherTechRaceway.com or by calling the Ticket and Accommodations specialists at 831-242-8200.
|
|
Hardly Trivial Answer by T. Buff
|
|
Lou Gehrig
In 1934 Lou Gehrig not only won the Triple Crown batting title, but was the first baseball player to appear on a Wheaties cereal box. (He appeared
on the back.)
take you to the story.
After setting multiple records, Gehrig was forced to retire by an undiagnosed ailment subsequently confirmed
neuromuscular illness; it is now commonly
referred to in North America
as "Lou Gehrig's disease."
|
|
Recent Facebook Albums to Enjoy
|
|
Back Issues
not to be missed!
Offering superb photography and
entertaining chronicles
Sports Today - #415 -- Jan. 10 - Jan. 16
* Click here for 2019 editions.
|
|
Weekly Bay Area
Sports Calendar
Monday, March 14, through
Sunday, March 20, 2022
|
|
Monday, March 14
Golden State Warriors vs. Washington Wizards, 7 p.m.
Tuesday, March 15
San Jose Sharks vs. Florida Panthers, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 16
Golden State Warriors vs. Boston Celtics, 7 p.m.
Thursday, March 17
San Jose Sharks @ LA Kings,7:30 p.m.
Friday, March 18
San Jose Sharks vs. Colorado Avalanche, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 19
San Jose Earthquakes @ Minnesota United, 5 p.m.
Sunday, March 20
Golden State Warriors vs. San Antonio Spurs, 5:30 p.m.
San Jose Sharks vs. Arizona Coyotes, 4 p.m.
|
|
Enjoy the
Under the ultra-skilled leadership of Cal graduate Ricky Liu, a team of talented Cal students assembled the elegant Ultimate Sports Guide website for your readers. Ricky's team included Natalie Leung, Yafei Liang and Kasey Woo. Visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net
|
|
This is an eBook available in .epub or .mobi file formats.
Navigating a career in any business is highly complex, especially in the world of sports and entertainment. Knowing how to separate the logo on your business card from your personal identity is a valuable skill for creating your own career path. Building a career in the sports industry is easier said than done, especially since the business is extremely addictive. Cool corporate logos and titles should never control your true sense of self; your name on the card is much more important! Welcome to the world of LOL, or “Loss of Logo.”
Written for aspiring sports professionals, current sports industry professionals, and any career enthusiasts who are chasing the fancy logo and corner office, LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? offers valuable takeaways for everyone. Comprised of powerful perspectives from 38 multitalented industry professionals, this book will give you the tools to succeed in the industry, with or without
your logo.
|
|
The New York Yankees are the greatest dynasty, not only in baseball but in all of sports. The Yankees, in fact, embody a series of dynasties, from Ruth-Gehrig through Jeter-Rivera. But the absolute greatest Yankees were the 1949-1953 pinstripers, winners of an unprecedented five consecutive World Series. The Yankee Way, Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa writes in the book's forward, is “full of Yankee winning keys, star-studded competitions, and insights about one of baseball's historically fascinating periods.” Key contributors to this dynasty, including Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, Yogi Berra, Billy Martin, Phil Rizzuto, and manager Casey Stengel, are remembered by their teammate, Charlie Silvera, catcher and co-author.
Dave Newhouse was an award-winning sportswriter/columnist for the Oakland Tribune before his retirement. He has continued his work as an author and The Yankee Way is his eighteenth book. He lives with his wife, Patsy, an artist, in Oakland, CA.
ISBN 978-1-937943-60-8 – 196 pages – $24.95
Published by St. Johann Press, P.O. Box 241, Haworth, NJ 07641 (201) 387-1529 www.stjohannpress.com
|
|
Advertise in Sports Today!
* Reach thousands of fans on a weekly basis
* Economical rates
* Sponsorship opportunities
Ann Cooke, Director of Sales
|
|
|
5980 Stoneridge Drive, Ste. 122
Pleasanton, CA 94588-2723
CalBRE License #:01770629
Agent 510.512.2145
Office 925.847.8900
|
|
Many people -- maybe even you -- have been getting out on their bikes more during Shelter-in-Place. "Check for Bikes" clings and bumper stickers are great ways to keep bicyclists safer out there on the road by promoting awareness by drivers to share the road. Keep safe out there and keep your neighbors safe by using or passing along vinyl clings for inside a car window or windshield and
4" circular bumper stickers. We have Youth and Spanish versions, too!
with questions or to order.
|
|
Ultimate Sports Guide
P.O. Box 4515
Berkeley, CA 94704
510-915-5664
|
|
|
The Ultimate Sports Guide is very appreciative to the ongoing contributions made by former staff photographer Kenny Karst and Robert Moselle. Mr. Karst, now retired, continues to contribute through helpful ideas and his archives.
Mr. Moselle is now lending his extensive editorial experience and marketing savvy to the publication.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|