February 24 -- March 2, 2025

Issue No. 578

Heavenly Pastime?

It’s noontime at the Heavenly Pub, which has just opened up. Spring training is under way down below, and the bartender is adjusting the television to get the American channel, so that the lone customer in the place can watch baseball

The Slugger

Robbed By

Mays' Catch

by Dave Newhouse

Bartender: All right, Woodrow, which game you interested in?

The universe is yours.

Customer: Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago White Sox. Any of those former teams of mine will do, and don’t call me Woodrow, smart ass.

Bartender: All right, calm down. I just like your middle name, the same first name of the former president, Mr. Wilson, who pops in whenever the Washington franchise is playing.

Customer: Call me Vic, OK? I don’t call you Lush, and that’s what you were on Earth as a pitcher, and why, I assume, you have this job up here.

Bartender: We played against each other, so let’s have peace. You’re Vic Wertz, I’m Don Larsen, and we each have one slice of baseball fame we’re remember for.

Customer: Some slice. You’re remembered for pitching a perfect game in a World Series, and I’m remembered for flying out in a World Series.

Bartender: Wait a minute, Woodrow, I mean Vic. I looked it up. You played 17 years in the bigs, six seasons with 20 or more homers, five seasons with 100 runs batted in, a .277 lifetime batting average, and an All-Star Game selection five times. You were a productive first baseman, buddy.

Customer: I’m also remembered for being a St. Louis Brown, but I’m defined by an out.

Bartender: But what an out! One of the longest balls ever hit, a good 470 feet, just hit in the wrong ballpark.

Customer: The Polo Grounds wasn’t a ballpark. It was oblong for one thing, and that’s why the center field fence was 483 feet away.

Bartender: Unfortunately, you hit it where Willie Mays could catch it. Need another drink, pal?

Customer: Yeah, another Bloody Mary. Can I buy you one?

Bartender: Thanks. I’ll pour me a bourbon straight, just don’t tell the pub owner, Branch Rickey. He frowns on drinking on the job.

Customer: You’re safe with me. But isn’t it something, getting one perfect swing of the bat, absolutely crushing the ball, and it winds up in a glove.

Bartender: But not just any glove, only the glove of the greatest outfielder the game has ever seen.

The Catch was made by New York Giants center fielder Willie Mays on September 29, 1954 during Game 1 of the 1954 World Series at the Polo Grounds in New York City. In the eighth inning, with the score tied 2–2, Cleveland Indians batter Vic Wertz hit a deep fly ball to center field that had the runners on base poised to score. However, Mays made an over-the-shoulder catch while on the run to record the out, and his throw back to the infield prevented one of the runners from advancing. The Giants won the game, 5–2, in extra innings, and eventually the World Series. The Catch is regarded as one of the greatest

plays in baseball history.

Customer: The fact that Willie Mays caught that ball should make me feel better, right?

Bartender: Willie is a recent arrival up here, you know. He comes in on occasion, not to order a beer, but a root beer. Do you know him?

Customer: Not really. We played in different leagues back then, when there was no inter-league play.

Bartender: He’s a good guy, the internal Say Hey kid. You two would get along.

Customer: Probably so, for if not for Willie, who’d remember me?

Bartender: Look, it’s the greatest out of all time, and you made it. You’ll always be remembered.

Customer: It’s nice to be famous for something but we, the Cleveland Indians, were supposed to sweep the New York Giants in that 1954 World Series, having won a record 111 games, and they swept us. Yet another historic negative.

Bartender: Some double play you’re stuck with, but don’t be hard on yourself.

Customer: I do hope to run into Willie. I’m forever identified by that catch, but the truth is that it makes me feel good. I’d be glad to buy Willie a beer.

Bartender: A root beer, remember? That’s his preference.

Customer: A root beer then. Say Hey.

* * * * *

Dave Newhouse's journalism career spans more than half a century, including 45 years at the Oakland Tribune before his retirement in November 2011. Newhouse is the author of 19 books. His most recent book, Goodbye, Oakland, is available in bookstores and from Triumph Books. 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.

Inspiration: Carl Macki

Letters to the Editor

HOCKEY: The 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off: U.S. vs. Canada

Attn: ESPN.BET Fans

"Wanting" a result does not mean it will "happen." Every ESPN.BET "expert" predicted a U.S.A. triumph, primarily on the basis of "patriotism." If "patriotism" were the key, which team would be more motivated?

Canada, the prey, or U.S.A., the hunter in today's geopolitical sphere? Obviously, the prey is more highly motivated, and Canada prevailed

3-2 in overtime. How many millions of dollars did viewers lose due to the ridiculous theories proffered by the panelists, many of whom admitted to little or no knowledge of the teams or the sport itself, but saw the game as an opportunity to wave the flag?

Robert A. Moselle, Esq.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertamoselle

Marketing Director, Sports Today

Came To Pass

Giants manager from 1961-64, Alvin Dark, declared that a man would land on the moon before Gaylord Perry, with his flawed swing,

could hit a home run.

On July 20, 1969, a few hours after Neil

Armstrong set foot on the moon,

Gaylord Perry hit his first -- and only --

home run.

Contents

Games

All Comers Track & Field Meet, Berkeley, CA

Saint Mary's College Gaels 33, Central Washington Wildcats 13

USF Dons (MBkB) 71, UOP Tigers 58

Features & Commentary

And AFTER COVID, by Howard Pearlstein

Chris Mullin, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee

International Table Tennis Federation, by Ed Jay

Multi-Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame, 25th Annual Induction Awards

Ceremony, Arif Khatib, with photographer Rich Yee

Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.

The Slugger Robbed by Mays' Catch, by Dave Newhouse

Organizations

A's

Bay Area Falcons

Bay Area Panthers

Bay FC

Cal Bears

Cal State University East Bay

Golden State Warriors

Oakland Ballers

Oakland Roots SC

Oakland Soul SC

Oakland Spiders

Saint Mary's College Gaels

San Francisco 49ers

San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Nighthawks

San Jose Earthquakes

San Jose State Spartans

Santa Clara Broncos

SF City

Sonoma Raceway

St. Francis Yacht Club

Stanford Cardinal

UC Davis Aggies

University of Pacific Tigers

USF Dons

WeatherTech Raceway Laguna

Seca

Don't Miss Our Next Issue!

Multi-Ethnic Sports Hall

of Fame -- 25th Annual Awards Induction Ceremony

Scott’s Seafood Restaurant, Jack London Square, Oakland Thursday, February 20, 2025

L-R: Arif Khatib, Marcus Smith, Donald Lacy, Keith Smith,

Monte Poole & Bonta Hill (Emcees). Photo by Rich Yee.

A Star-Studded Evening in Oakland

by Pete Elman

Thursday evening, February 20, at Scott’s Seafood Restaurant at Jack London Square, Arif Khatib presented his 25th annual awards induction ceremony for the Multi-Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame. At a star-studded, sold-out event featuring fine speeches, memories and old friends reconnecting, six legendary athletes were

inducted into the Hall.

Mike Norris grew up in San Francisco, a prodigy with a blazing fastball and a relentless will to compete. Norris was 18 when he was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in 1973, and in 1980 had a banner 22-9 year. His health challenges are well-known, but he has persevered and was on hand to accept his award.

Another inductee was Leigh Steinberg, perhaps the most influential of all sports agents. During his 50-year career, Steinberg has represented over 300 professional athletes in football, baseball, basketball, boxing, and Olympic sports, including Troy Aikman, Steve Young, and Patrick Mahomes. In addition he is a

philanthropist, author, and real-life inspiration for the film Jerry Maguire.

L-R, A's Bill North presents to Mike Felder, Curt Flood Platinum Award recipient. Photo by Rich Yee.

John Paye, who starred for Stanford as quarterback from 1983-86, was also inducted. Paye was the last NCAA Division I athlete to start in both football and basketball as a freshman, and coached several Peninsula high schools to state CIF basketball championships.

Donna DeVarona, an Olympic swimming champion who competed at Rome in 1960 when she was just 13, and won two gold medals in Tokyo in 1964, was inducted. In 1964, the AP and UPI voted DeVarona the "most outstanding woman athlete in the world.” Donna attended Acalanes High School in Lafayette and then UCLA,

and in 1964 became the youngest and one of the first women sportscasters for a national network, appearing on Wide World of Sports as a 17-year old.

Brad Gilbert. Photo by Rich Yee.

Oakland-born tennis champion and coach Brad Gilbert was also inducted. Gilbert had a stellar career as a player, winning 519 matches, 20 tournaments and achieving the #4 ranking in 1990. But it is as a coach to champions that he has truly made his mark, shepherding Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, Andy Murray and

Coco Gauff to Grand Slam victories. Also a commentator and analyst for ESPN, the loquacious Gilbert is never without words, and delivered a fine speech.

The man who made the biggest splash at the ceremony was a man who was a “Splash” brother before Steph Curry and Klay Thompson arrived on the scene.

Well-loved Golden State Warrior, the “C” in Run TMC,” and current Comcast Bay Area sportscaster and analyst, Chris Mullin was on hand and in fine form as he accepted his induction, recalling Warrior legends Nate Thurmond and Al Attles.

Mullin, as always, lent grace, class and eloquence to the proceedings.

Chris Mullin. Photo by Rich Yee.

Richmond native Mike Felder played in the big leagues from 1985-1994 for Milwaukee, San Francisco, Seattle and Houston, and in 1992 he received the Willie Mac award honoring his spirit and leadership. Thursday Felder received the Hall’s Curt Flood Platinum award, given to that athlete who most exemplifies the late trailblazer’s talent, courage and determination.

Ann Cooke, of the Ultimate Sports Guide, was on hand and reported back, “The vibe in the room for me was appreciation, respect and sharing.”

There were also four recipients of community awards honored that evening.

Ritu Maheshwari, recipient of the Community Advocate Award, is a leader who strives to unite the Indian-American community and help youth connect with their culture and roots. Ritu has been associated with many charities and non-profit organizations and has worked to give victims of crime and domestic violence voice

with her documentaries and you tube channel.

Leigh Steinberg. To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net. Photo by Rich Yee.

Donald Lacy, recipient of the Lifetime Community Leadership Award, is a writer, director, actor, comedian, radio talk show host, and activist. For 27 years he has been the Executive Director of the LoveLife Foundation, which provides scholarships to high school graduates who will be attending four-year colleges.

Renell Brooks-Moon, recipient of the Outstanding Media Award, was the first woman to announce a world championship game in any sport at the 2002 World Series. She went on to be the stadium announcer for the San Francisco Giants for all three of their recent titles, and has received numerous awards, including honors from

American Women in Radio and Television.

Sabrina Mounkes, a leader in the mental health, drug rehab and medical fields, was the recipient of a special “Don’t Give Up” award. Sabrina succeeded in spite of the loss of a loved one and survived colon cancer. Her journey serves as a testament to

the resilience of the human spirit.

At the event, Mr. Khatib offered this reflection on the organization that he started in 2000.

At the conclusion of the evening’s events, founder and president of the Multi-Ethnic Hall of Fame, Arif Khatib, reflected on his 25 years of dedication and searching for and honoring individuals whose accomplishments and contributions may have been overlooked or unrecognized.

* * *

Pete Elman is the author of an outstanding new book, I nsights and Outakes, a collection of sports essays covering Bay Area teams and sports personalities.

USF Dons 71

UoP Tigers 58

War Memorial Gym, Sobrato Center, San Francisco, CA

Thursday, February 20, 2025

USF Dons senior Malik Thomas scored 23 points on Senior Night as the Dons defeated the Pacific Tigers, 71-58, on Thursday, February 20th at War Memorial Gym at the Sobrato Center.

Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

Guard Tyrone Riley IV finished with 14 points and ten rebounds as the Dons finished 16-0 on The Hilltop this season, the first time in 44 years that the Dons achieved an undefeated season at War Memorial. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

Senior guard Marcus Williams recorded 14 points, four assists, and three steals. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

San Francisco Dons forward Junjie Wang (top) and Pacific Tigers forward Kris Keinys (bottom) reach for a loose ball during the first half at War Memorial Gym at the Sobrato Center. To view

a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net.

Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

Saint Mary's College Gaels 33

Central Washington Wildcats 13

Saint Mary's Stadium, Moraga, CA

Sunday, February 23, 2025

Saint Mary's left wing Siale Ofa dives in for the Gaels' first try of the game as the defending champions defeated the Central Washington Wildcats, 33-13, at Saint Mary's Stadium on Sunday, February 23rd. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

Right wing Ethan Younger gives the Gaels the lead with a try late in the first half. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

Center Dom Besag eludes the last Wildcat defender on the way to score a try on the final play of the game. To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net.

Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.

All-Comers Track and Field Meet

Edwards Stadium, Berkeley, CA

Saturday, February 22, 2025

The University of California Track and Field hosted the All-Comers Track and Field meet at Edwards Stadium under perfect weather conditions, allowing anyone over 13 to enter and compete as individuals, striving for personal bests. Some local high schools and colleges, like CSU East Bay, brought large contingencies of athletes, while some, like Cal had only a few active participants who were not in their team kits. Getting the action going early at 8:00 a.m., the hammer throw was a mixed gender and multi-generational event, with competitors from 17 and into their senior years competing. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

In the women's 1-Mile Race Walk, we had a 50+ year gap between competitors. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

Capping the Mixed High Jump, Justin Lewis (unattached) would finish his day with a jump of 2.21 meters.

Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

In the Women’s 60-meter Hurdles, three Cal (unattached) runners would finish on the proverbial podium with times of 8.46, 8.56, and 8.74 in front of the home crowd. To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net.

Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.

Stanford Continuing Studies

Tuesdays, 6:00 – 7:50 pm (PT)

• 6 weeks • April 8 – May 27

Join Us Online!

Baseball isn’t just a game, it’s a national heartbeat. The most traditional, numbers-oriented, and nostalgia-inducing of our major sports, it offers a fantasyland for statisticians, an instrument for social change, a reprieve from the digital rush, and a source of lifelong memories. This course offers a behind-the-scenes look at the culture, history, and strategy that make America’s game so captivating.

Each week, you will join baseball insiders as they reveal the sport from unique perspectives: the journey of a player, the life of an umpire, the impact of analytics on team building, the evolving

media landscape, and more. We will also examine the business side of baseball, exploring everything from minor league operations to contract negotiations and stadium construction.

Luminary guest speakers, including major league players and executives, will show you how the game has evolved on and off the field.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan or just curious, join us this spring for an in-depth, entertaining look at what makes baseball an enduring part of American culture.

Course Instructors

Andy Dolich

President, Dolich Consulting

Andy Dolich has held executive positions in the MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL with the Oakland A's, San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, Memphis Grizzlies, and Washington Capitals. He is the

executive vice president of Fan Controlled Sports and Entertainment. Dolich is a co-author of Goodbye, Oakland: Winning, Wanderlust, and a Sports Town's Fight for Survival with Dave Newhouse and of 20 Secrets to Success for NCAA Student-Athletes and LOL, Loss of Logo: What's Your Next Move? He is also the co-host of the podcast Life in the Front Office and a columnist for the Ultimate Sports Guide.

Dave Newhouse

Sports Writer and Columnist

Dave Newhouse has been a prominent figure in the Bay Area sports scene since the 1960s. He was an award-winning sports writer and columnist for the Oakland Tribune, a pioneer among sports talk show hosts on San Francisco radio, and is the author of 19 books. His most recent book, Goodbye, Oakland: Winning, Wanderlust, and a Sports Town's Fight for Survival, co-authored with Andy Dolich, explores the story of Oakland losing its professional sports teams.

Guest Speakers

Dave Stewart, Former Oakland A's All-Star Pitcher and Baseball Executive

Larry Bear, CEO, San Francisco Giants

Ken Korach, Oakland A's Radio Announcer

Brian Murphy, KNBR Sports Radio Host

Scott Ostler, San Francisco Chronicle Sports Columnist

Mike Pinto, Manager, Joliet Slammers, Minor League Baseball

Daniel Rascher, President, Sports Economics and Faculty, University of San Francisco

Ted Robinson, National Sports Broadcaster

Bill Schlough, CIO, San Francisco Giants

Russ Stanley, Senior Vice President, Ticket Sale's Service,

San Francisco Giants

Please note: Guest speakers may be subject to change.

Golden State Warriors

Warriors Announce 2025 Black History Month Celebrations

Activations Scheduled Throughout February To Highlight, Honor And Celebrate Black History With Excellence

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors have announced celebrations for Black History Month, which includes a variety of activations aimed at honoring the contributions of Black history and uplifting Black voices.

Upcoming Warriors Black History Month activations include:

February 25: African American Heritage Night – On Tuesday, February 25, the Warriors will host African American Heritage Night, a celebration of cultural heritage with a spotlight on the contributions of Black communities. The game will feature a resource fair with local Black businesses, celebratory performances by the Warriors Dance Team, and recognition of Fredrika Newton, activist and head of the Dr. Huey P. Newton Foundation, as Impact Warrior.

February 27: Laurel Elementary School Read-In – Volunteers will spend the day at Laurel Elementary School reading literary works from Black authors to emphasize the importance of literacy within the Black community.

continued...

www.warriors.com

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To Our Readers

If you enjoy our free publication, a

contribution to help defray costs

would be appreciated.

Thanks to the following generous donors!

A. Nonymous

Elisabeth (Betty) C.

Steve Chain

Harvey Cohen

Richard Cross -- Founder / San Francisco Nighthawks

Andy Dolich

Robert Flammia

Bill & Nona Hool

Sheila Jordan

Arif Khatib

Mitchell Kim

David Larson

Ann McNaughton

Timothy Maroney

Dave Newhouse

Timothy Palacios

James Reynolds

Ross & Vicki Robinson

Chloe Satterlee

Selina Satterlee

Robert Scheer

Leonard Schwab

Narda Zacchino

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San Francisco Giants

Justin Verlander, August 16, 2019. Photo by Darren Yamashita

Verlander emerging as key mentor with Giants

Maria Guardado

@mi_guardado

This story was excerpted from Maria Guardado's Giants Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Hayden Birdsong is the youngest pitcher in Giants camp this year. When the 23-year-old right-hander threw one of his first bullpen sessions of the spring last week, he found himself receiving instant feedback from the oldest member of the group: three-time Cy Young winner Justin Verlander.

A 13-second clip of Verlander’s tips for Birdsong has drawn 1.1 million views on the Giants’ TikTok page, providing a glimpse at the impact the future Hall of Famer is already making on the talented group of young pitchers that are rising within the organization.

Get tickets for Hello Kitty Night, Nate Smith postgame concert

and much more

continued...

www.sfgiants.com

Click Here!

The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

"Join us for Great Food, Great Beer and a Great Time."

We are located one block from the Moscone Convention Center, only a short walk from many of downtown San Francisco's familiar hotels, attractions, and diverse businesses. Open Monday through Thursday 4pm. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12pm. Come by and raise a glass with us. Sláinte!

www.thechieftain.com

Athletics

J.T. Ginn, September 26, 2024, versus the Texas Rangers.

Photo by Darren Yamashita

Ginn eager to show A's what he can offer in 2025

Martín Gallegos

@MartinJGallegos

This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos' Athletics Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here . And subscribe to get it regularly in your inbox.

PEORIA, Ariz. -- For an idea of what version of J.T. Ginn the Athletics want to see this spring, all you have to do is look back to his final outing of the 2024 season.

In just his sixth Major League start, Ginn drew the start for the A’s in what was the club’s final scheduled home game at the Oakland Coliseum. Pitching in front of a raucous sold-out crowd of 46,889 fans, the rookie right-hander honed that energy and electricity circulating through the building and limited the defending World Series champion Rangers to two runs across 5 1/3 innings en route to earning his first Major League win.

A's single-game tickets for 2025 are on sale now!

Beyond that final line, the A’s were impressed with several factors. For one, Ginn’s ability to remain composed and thrive in such an atmosphere -- he shut down Texas through a scoreless first five innings on just one hit. He also kept his sinker around the bottom of the zone to generate plenty of weak contact, which is precisely what the scouting reports read as his strengths when the A’s first acquired him as a top prospect from the Mets in the 2022 Chris Bassitt deal.

continued...

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Oakland Ballers

Ballers Fam,

We can’t wait to see you at Fans Fest.

In less than 2 weeks, we’ll be gathering around Raimondi Park for a FREE event that honors you. You don’t need to buy tickets. You don’t need to sign up for anything. All you have to do is stop by and have fun with thousands of your closest friends from the Oakland sports fans community.

This family-friendly bash which is organized by the Oakland 68s and Last Dive Bar takes place Saturday March 1st from 11am to 5pm and the B’s will be out in force.

We’ll have fan favorites like Tyler Lozano and Conner Sullivan in the house. We’ll also have new signings like Michael O’Hara, who won multiple all-conference academic and athletic awards for the Santa Clara Broncos in attendance.

Our Co-Founders Paul Freedman and Bryan Carmel will have an announcement that’s a Fans Fest exclusive. Our own VP of Communications & Fan Entertainment Casey Pratt will be an event emcee and, of course, Scrappy The Rally Possum will be in the house ready to bust out dance moves and take selfies.

We’ll also have Fans Fest exclusive ticket offers for the 2025 Ballers season and Oaklandish will be selling newly released Ballers gear.

Fans Fest is a celebration of all things Oakland sports. Last year an estimated 15,000 people showed up and the vibes were off the chart. This year, the Oakland 68s and Last Dive Bar have done an incredible job organizing over 80 vendors, 13 Bay Area sports teams and some of the biggest names in Oakland sports history.

We can’t wait to see all you all in West Oakland on March 1st, Your Baller Family

Check Here For Latest Fans Fest Info

www.oaklandballers.com

Click Here

Advertise in Sports Today!

Ann Cooke, Sales Director

Or call (510) 414-5394

anncooke510@gmail.com

International Table

Tennis Federation

888 Table Tennis Center, Burlingame, CA

Monday, February 17, 2025

The ITTF (International Table Tennis Federation) held its 2025 Pan American Cup at the 888 Table Tennis Center in Burlingame. This is only the second time it has been held in the USA. Sixty-seven athletes, including 22 Olympians, from the Americas participated including those from Canada, USA, Chile, Brazil, and Mexico. The top four male/female advance to the World Cup in Macao in April. Above, Eugene Wang, from Canada, is one of multiple Olympian qualifiers to the World Cup. Photo and caption by Ed Jay.

Kanak Jha, USA, is a three-time Olympian and five-time national champion and punched his ticket to the World Cup in Macao. He is also the winner of the Pan American Cup. Photo and caption

by Ed Jay.

Lily Zhang, USA, is a four-time Olympian and is the noted fan favorite with roots in the Bay Area, having been born in Redwood City. She is also a six-time national singles champion. She made it to the Pan American Cup finals and fell to Bruna Takahashi, Brazil. She will compete in Macao. Photo and caption by Ed Jay.

Bruna Takahashi, Brazil, is a three-time Olympian and won the Pan American Cup, defeating Lily Zhang. She will also compete in Macao in the World Cup. Photo and caption by Ed Jay.

Oakland Roots SC

Don’t Miss the Home Opener Fireworks!

On March 22, Oakland Roots return home to kick off the 2024 season with the biggest game of the year—the Home Opener at the Coliseum.

The energy will be electric.
The stands will be packed.
The soccer will be thrilling.
The mission continues.

Make sure you’re there when history happens.

Get your tickets now.

Buy Single Game Tickets

www.oaklandrootssc.com

Click Here!

San Jose Earthquakes

MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 4,

Real Salt Lake 0

San Jose triumphant in new coach Bruce Arena’s Earthquakes debut; Cristian Espinoza dazzles home crowd with three assists

SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Real Salt Lake 4-0 on Saturday night in front of 17,432 fans at PayPal Park to open the 2025 Major League season.

San Jose struck first in the 28th minute when Cristian Espinoza passed to recently signed midfielder Beau Leroux on the right wing. The debutant’s incisive pass rolled through the box to a streaking Jamar Ricketts, who scored his first MLS goal.

The Earthquakes doubled their advantage in the 70th minute when Espinoza’s corner kick was headed home by a leaping Rodrigues. Four minutes later, San Jose put the match away when Espinoza’s long ball, his third assist of the night, found forward Ousseni Bouda, who coolly finished to put the Quakes up 3-0. Defender Vítor Costa added an exclamation point in the 84th minute when he slotted a Mark-Anthony Kaye pass into the back of the net for the final 4-0 margin.

The Black and Blue will now head out on their first road trip of the season to take on Sporting Kansas City next Saturday, Mar. 1. Kickoff from Children’s Mercy Park will take place at 5:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV (English/Spanish), as well as on local radio via KNBR 680 AM/104.5 FM (English) and 1370 AM La Kaliente (Spanish).

continued...

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Bay FC

29 DAYS UNTIL BAY FC HOME OPENER

Join us for an electrifying soccer showdown on Saturday, March 22nd at 7pm PT as Racing Louisville FC visits PayPal Park to take on Bay FC in our much-anticipated kickoff to the season.

We will be celebrating the start of our 2025 campaign with giveaways, live entertainment and more!

BUY TICKETS>>

CALLED UP: RACHEAL KUNDANANJI

Bay FC forward Racheal Kundananji has been selected to join the Copper Queens for a pair of February Friendlies.

This call-up marks Kundananji’s first in 2025 so far. She was previously selected for international duty twice in 2024, including the Paris Olympics, where she played every minute and scored a brace against Australia.

Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 120: What's The Deal With States Proposing Income Tax Relief For College Athletes?

by Darren Heitner, Esq.

Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration

The Weekly Longer NIL Thought

The States of Georgia, Alabama, and Illinois each have lawmakers who have decided to introduce legislation that would provide a unique monetary benefit to college athletes participating within their borders.

Those legislators would like to give athletes a tax break.

Specifically, legislation in the aforementioned states contemplates making college athletes a special class exempt from paying income tax on monies received related to NIL transactions.

"The reality is, we're going to collect more tax revenue when Illinois football is successful," said Travis Weaver, who sponsored the Illinois bill. "We're going to sell a heck of a lot more tee shirts and baseball caps, and we're going to have more people staying in our hotels, and they go to the U of I for games. So I think we got to continue to be competitive in sports, and we've got to keep up with what other states are doing."

I have recently wondered whether it would result in pushback from "normal" civilians in both jurisdictions who would not enjoy the same income tax relief. But, of course, there's also a legal angle to consider.

As pointed out by Michael McCann, the highest court in the U.S.A. has previously determined that these types of state tax laws violate equal protection if the exclusions are not reasonable. McCann refers to a 1985 decision in the case of Hooper v. Bernalillo County Assessor, where SCOTUS held that an exemption for Vietnam War veterans who were residents of New Mexico by 1976 was not equitable because it excluded veterans who moved to the state after that calendar year.

But if the state can show that the exclusion (here for college athletes) furthers a legitimate state purpose, then it could pass the smell test.

The bottom line is that if this legislation goes anywhere, it will likely result in legal challenges.

continued...

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Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion Assembling Rarely Seen Formula 1® Exhibition Class

75th Anniversary Celebration Highlights Monterey Car Week

MONTEREY, Calif., Feb. 13, 2025—Saluting the 75th Anniversary of Formula 1®, organizers of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion are assembling an all-star lineup of historic F1 cars that helped define the sport into the world’s most revered and competitive series. The event, held at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca August 13-16, is one of the cornerstones of the world-renowned Monterey Car Week.

Curating the exhibition is Ellen Bireley, former executive director of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Ms. Bireley has previously orchestrated memorable displays such as the 2022 tribute to the 24 Hours of Le Mans and last year’s 50th anniversary of historic racing at Laguna Seca.

“From England and Australia to Japan and throughout the Americas, I’m in discussion with owners of both early groundbreaking designs to more modern machines that showcase the most advanced technology,” Bireley said. “Harnessing the vast knowledge of members on our Advisory Council has been critical in locating the best of the best from private collections and museums.”

Attendees at the Rolex Reunion can explore more than two dozen legendary Formula 1 cars up close while enjoying an action-packed weekend featuring 400 cars racing in 14 groups. The featured race will spotlight a dedicated group of 1966-1985 Historic F1 cars with thrilling on-track action daily.

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Sonoma Raceway

Get Ready to Hit The Gas: Sonoma Raceway’s 2025 Drag Racing Schedule is Here!

SONOMA, Calif. (January 29, 2025) – Buckle up, drag racing fans! Sonoma Raceway is ready to bring the heat with another year of full-throttle action for the 2025 Sonoma Drags season.

Kicking off in March, the 37th season of Sonoma Drags returns with seven drag racing events on Wednesday nights, held most months through October. These nights are the perfect opportunity for drivers to put the pedal to the metal on Sonoma Raceway’s legendary quarter-mile drag strip. Open to any street-legal vehicle that passes a basic safety inspection, the track welcomes everything from high-performance muscle cars to the family minivan. There’s no judgement here – just pure, unfiltered fun and speed.

The ever-popular Top The Cops® program also returns in 2025, giving high school students the chance to drag race local law enforcement, competing in full uniform in their official vehicles, on the same drag strip as the top professional racing series for a unique and friendly showdown. It’s all about fostering respect, safety, and a shared love of speed – on the track, not the streets.

Of course, the crown jewel of the drag racing season is the DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event with more than 22,000 horsepower set to rattle the wine country grapevines on July 25-27. The fastest drivers in the world will descend on Sonoma Raceway for three full days of record-breaking runs and head-to-head battles.

For fans of grassroots competition, the schedule also features three Bracket Drags events throughout the year, where drivers test their skill, consistency and nerve in high-stakes, point-based matchups.

Whether you’re behind the wheel or cheering from the stands, Sonoma Drags is your ticket to an adrenaline-filled mid-week escape. Racing starts at just $60 for advanced registration or purchase at the gate, $20 to race with a high school ID, $20 for spectators at the gate, and kids 12 and under are free, making it the perfect family outing.

For more information, the full schedule or to register in advance, visit SonomaRaceway.com or call (800) 870-RACE [7223].

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Universities & Colleges

Cal Bears

No. 3 Bears On Cusp Of Championship

Two More Podium Finishes Keep Bears Firmly In Lead

GREENSBORO, N.C. – The No. 3 California men's swimming & diving team recorded a pair of podium finishes Friday and continues to lead the overall team standings heading into the final day of the 2025 ACC Championship at Greensboro Aquatic Center.

Graduate student Dare Rose reached the podium for the second straight night after placing second in the 200-yard butterfly with a time of 1:39.47. Rose led for most of the race before being overtaken by winner Andrei Minakov of Stanford over the final 25 yards. Rose was third in the 100 butterfly on Thursday.

Senior Gabriel Jett just missed the podium in the 200 fly with a fourth-place finish at 1:40.28 - .16 out of third place.

Freshman Yamato Okadome registered his first career podium finish by taking third place in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 51.12.

Sophomore Geoffrey Vavitsas advanced to the finals of the platform diving event and placed fifth (370.30 points) and freshman Mewen Tomac was also fifth in the 100 backstroke with the ninth-fastest time ever at Cal (45.16).

The Golden Bears' 400 medley relay team of Jett (backstroke), Okadome (breaststroke), Rose (butterfly) and Tomac (freestyle) placed second but with the 10^th-fastest time ever at Cal (3:01.92).

Heading into the final day of the meet, the Bears continue to hold the lead as they look to become Cal's first program to win an ACC team championship. Cal leads with 885.5 points while Stanford is in second place at 822 points. North Carolina is in third place with 741.

Saturday's schedule includes the 200 backstroke, 100 freestyle, 200 breaststroke and 400 free relay.

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Photo: Jaylynn Nash / the ACC.com

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Stanford Cardinal

Down Goes No. 1; Battled the Bruins

No. 5 Stanford split its second day of action in Hawai'i, upsetting No. 1 USC but falling 3-2 to No. 3 UCLA

HONOLULU – No. 5 Stanford secured its first win of the 2025 season in style Friday, defeating No. 1 USC 3-2 for just the second time in program history. The Cardinal split its second day of action in Hawaii, falling to No. 3 UCLA 3-2 in a back-and-forth battle.

The Cardinal falls to 1-3 on the 2025 season with the 1-1 day Friday. Sophomores Clara Stowell and Chloe Hoffman were Stanford’s lone pair to go 2-0 on the day, besting both pairs from USC and UCLA in straight-set style.

Stanford kicked off its day in Hawai’i with a 3-2 victory over the No. 1 Women of Troy, just the program’s second-ever win over USC. Stowell and Hoffman secured the match’s first point with a straight-set win on court four, while all other courts were forced to three-set battles. Freshman Avery Jackson and junior Kelly Belardi grabbed point two with a 21-15, 10-21, 19-17 gritty comeback win on court three, and sophomore Brooke Rockwell and Ruby Sorra captured the match win with a 17-21, 21-18, 21-19 extra-points victory on court one.

The Cardinal ended its day in Hawaii falling to the No. 3 Bruins 3-2. Stanford shot off to an early lead as Stowell and Hoffman earned their second straight-set victory on court four, topping UCLA’s Alexa Fernandez and Tessa Van Winkle 21-15, 22-20. Junior Taylor Wilson and freshman Charlotta Bell won their first match as a pair to go up 2-0 on the Bruins, besting Natalie Myszkowski and Peri Brennan 22-20, 21-18 on court two. The Bruins tied the match at 2-2 with third-set extra point victories on courts one and three, and secured the win with a third third-set victory on court three.

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San Jose State Spartans

Mountain West Announces 2025 Football Schedule

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The Mountain West released the 2025 football schedule on Thursday, and San José State will open conference play against New Mexico at home on Oct. 4 as they look for their program-record fourth straight bowl game.

"We're thrilled that our schedule is so balanced this year starting with our home opener on a Thursday against Central Michigan and then heading to top-ranked Texas," said Director of Athletics Jeff Konya. "We're looking forward to hosting New Mexico in our first Mountain West Conference game of the season and having Mountain West foes Hawai‘i, Air Force, and Fresno State to end the regular season at home."

The Spartans and Bulldogs will conclude the regular season with the Battle for the Valley for the first time since 2021.

SJSU is 15-4 in their last 19 games at CEFCU Stadium, and season tickets can be purchased here.

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Saint Mary's College Gaels

#31 Aiden Taurek: 2-3, 1 2B, 2 R

BSB | Gaels Strike First but Commodores Slug their way to Opening Series Win

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Saint Mary's entered Hawkins Field with no fear and proved that by putting two runs on the board in the second inning to take the early 2-0 lead. Vanderbilt would respond with a pair of two-out hits in the bottom of the second to snatch a 3-2 lead but back came the Gaels as freshman Ian Armstrong shot a single through the right side to score Aiden Taurek in the fourth and tie the game up at three.

The game would start to unravel for the Gaels after starter Derik Eaquinto departed as the Commodores scored seven runs over the next three innings to take a commanding 10-3 lead. Two hit batters from Eaquinto and ten walks from the Saint Mary's pitching staff would extend innings and give the 15th ranked Commodores extra at-bats. Taurek and Armstrong finished with two hits each for Saint Mary's and Armstrong recorded two RBI's bringing his season total to six.

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USF Dons

Leite Scores Season-High 19 Points as San Francisco Falls at

Washington State

PULLMAN, Wash. – The University of San Francisco (12-14, 9-8 WCC) dropped a hard-fought 67-59 West Coast Conference decision at Washington State (17-12, 12-6 WCC) Thursday evening at Beasley Coliseum.

Johnny Luetzow posted his first multi-hit game of the season Friday with a 2-for-3 showing at the plate.

Aggies Take Series Opener

From Baseball

DAVIS, Calif. — Shutdown pitching and early offense carried host UC Davis to a big, 14-0, shutout win Friday night over the Santa Clara University baseball team at Dobbins Stadium.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Aggies (4-1) scored four runs in the bottom of the first and four more in the bottom of the second, and they were off to an 8-0 lead. Single runs in the fourth and fifth innings, as well as a third four-run frame in the seventh gave UCD its 14-run advantage.
While the Aggies' offense was taking care of business, Bryan Green (1-1) was doing his job on the mound. The UC Davis lefty earned his first win of 2025 with seven innings of shutout ball, only allowing three hits and never allowing a Broncos base runner past first. The game was a "revenge" game of sorts for Green, who got beat one year ago at Stephen Schott Stadium in his start against Santa Clara (2-2). The Broncos hit two home runs against Green in 2024, beating him and the Aggies, 10-2. Friday, Green struck out eight– the same number of Broncos he struck out in 2024 – and never faced more than four batters in an inning.
Johnny Luetzow led the Broncos with a 2-for-3 night at the plate, his first multi-hit game of the season. Malcolm Williams extended his active hitting streak to 11 games with a single in the second inning, and Tate Medicoff came through with his first career base hit, a single in the top of the ninth.
UC Davis got three-hit games from Tyler Howard in the leadoff spot and Nick Leehey at cleanup. Leehey hit a three-run home run in the first inning and finished five RBIs. The Aggies outhit the Broncos, 11-4, and also took advantage of 10 free passes (nine walks, one hit-by-pitch) issued by Santa Clara pitchers.

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University of Pacific Tigers

Women’s Tennis Drops Weekend Match to Grand Canyon

STOCKTON, Calif. – The Pacific women's tennis suffered a setback Sunday morning at the Eve Zimmerman Tennis Center, dropping a 7-0 decision to Grand Canyon.

Senior Megan Carmichael, alongside freshman Maggie Hoe won a doubles match on court three for the Tigers (1-5). They notched a 6-4 win despite Pacific being unable to close out the doubles point against GCU (4-4).

Once in the singles half, Carmichael pushed her opponent to the brink in both sets but was ultimately bested by the Lopes.

Pacific hits the road for the next two matches, going to play indoor tennis in Moscow, Idaho when the team faces Wyoming on Feb. 22 and Idaho on Feb. 23.

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UC Davis Aggies

Sabel Secures Fifth Double-Double; Aggies Drop Road Contest to Highlanders

Score: UC Davis 53, UC Riverside 55

Location: Riverside, Calif. (SRC Arena)

Records: UC Davis 15-9 (9-5), UC Riverside 11-13 (7-7)

The short story: Tova Sabel led her team with 16 points and 10 rebounds, but the UC Davis women's basketball team fell in their second matchup of the season to the UC Riverside Highlanders.

OPENING TIP

Sabel's double-double marks her fifth of the season, also the seventh double-double of her collegiate career.
Nya Epps also hit double figures for the second time in three contests, scoring 11 points on 5-of-10 (50%) shooting.
Sydney Burns effectively set up her teammates, bringing in a team-high five assists.
Megan Norris had another strong day on the defensive end, collecting three blocks and one steal.
The Aggies effectively controlled the paint, scoring 32 points down low compared to the Highlanders 18.
Davis also stayed vigilant on missed shots, pulling down eight offensive rebounds and scoring eight second-chance points.

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Cal State University East Bay Pioneers

Despite Comeback Effort, Pioneer Women's Basketball Falls Short to CSUSB on Thursday

Aasland reaches second double-double of the season

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. - The Cal State East Bay women's basketball team battled hard with a comeback push, but ultimately fell short against Cal State San Bernardino, losing 78-67 in CCAA action on Thursday evening at Coussoulis Arena.

The Pioneers struggled out of the gate, managing just five points in the opening quarter as the Coyotes built a 19-5 lead. However, East Bay battled back in the second quarter, outscoring CSUSB, 28-16 to close the gap to just two points at halftime as Joia Armstrong 's layup in the final minute bringing them within two points at 35-33.

Cal State East Bay finally tied the game at 39-39 early in the third quarter on a 3-pointer by Kelsey Valencia. But after the game was tied, CSUSB regained control in the third, taking a 54-49 lead into the final frame.

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Warriors Announce 2025 Black History Month Celebrations

Activations Scheduled Throughout February To Highlight, Honor And Celebrate Black History With Excellence

Verlander emerging as key mentor with Giants

Ginn eager to show A's what he can offer in 2025

Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 120: What's The Deal With States Proposing Income Tax Relief For College Athletes?

The Weekly Longer NIL Thought

Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion Assembling Rarely Seen Formula 1® Exhibition Class

75th Anniversary Celebration Highlights Monterey Car Week

No. 3 Bears On Cusp Of Championship

Down Goes No. 1; Battled the Bruins

Mountain West Announces 2025 Football Schedule

#31 Aiden Taurek: 2-3, 1 2B, 2 R

Leite Scores Season-High 19 Points as San Francisco Falls at

Washington State

Johnny Luetzow posted his first multi-hit game of the season Friday with a 2-for-3 showing at the plate.

Aggies Take Series Opener

﻿From Baseball

Women’s Tennis Drops Weekend Match to Grand Canyon

Sabel Secures Fifth Double-Double; Aggies Drop Road Contest to Highlanders

Despite Comeback Effort, Pioneer Women's Basketball Falls Short to CSUSB on Thursday

Aasland reaches second double-double of the season

From Baseball