Sports Pros(e): August 2011 Archives

Hope Solo and Ron Artest will dance with the stars, Arsenal is sorry they put you through that, A Cubs fan falls all over the place and the slow-motion replay gets its moment in the sun

By Kyle Koster on August 30, 2011 5:56 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Ron Artest and Hope Solo now have something in common besides their mutual love of defense.

The duo will represent the sports world on the new season of "Dancing With the Stars," which revealed its cast of aspiring twinkle-toes Monday night.

Solo and Artest join an eclectic group of famous people who hope to jive, shimmy and tango their way to the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Some of the more interesting names who will put on their dancing shoes for season 13 include Nancy Grace, Chaz Bono and Kristin Cavallari.

As goalkeeper for the U.S. Women's soccer team, Solo won her way into American hearts by leading her team to the World Cup final in July.

Artest, on the other hand, has been hard at work trying to win back the public after his role in a 2004 riot during a basketball game in Detroit. Fans planning to vote for Artest may have to be willing to adapt, however. The Los Angeles Lakers swingman's application to legally change his name to Metta World Peace was held up yesterday due to outstanding traffic warrants.

Continue reading Hope Solo and Ron Artest will dance with the stars, Arsenal is sorry they put you through that, A Cubs fan falls all over the place and the slow-motion replay gets its moment in the sun.

Andy Samberg is every tennis player you've ever loved, the Cy-Hawk trophy is no more, Blake Griffin is funny, Todd Haley is hip and Brad Penny is lucky

By Kyle Koster on August 24, 2011 6:03 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

"Saturday Night Live" star Andy Samberg recently impersonated several tennis stars from the past 30 years in a photo shoot for New York Times Magazine. The results were just fantastic.

The funnyman recreated iconic images of John McEnroe, Bjorn Borg, Andre Agassi and a few others with accurate, yet humorous style.

Continue reading Andy Samberg is every tennis player you've ever loved, the Cy-Hawk trophy is no more, Blake Griffin is funny, Todd Haley is hip and Brad Penny is lucky.

Joe Maddon is ready for some football, Like a moth to a Matt Holliday, The incredible headless running back, Preseason football breeds violence and Joe Namath likes cheerleaders

By Kyle Koster on August 23, 2011 5:45 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon has football on the brain.

After his team beat the Seattle Mariners on a walk-off grand slam from Johnny Damon Sunday, the skipper donned a Tampa Bay Buccaneers helmet and spoke a modified version of football-speak.

Among the highlights here are Maddon referring to the Mariners as "the Seahawks" and a mid-question swig from a Gatorade bottle.

Maddon's bit earned him a thank-you text from Bucs coach Raheem Morris, who's been known to sport Rays gear.

Continue reading Joe Maddon is ready for some football, Like a moth to a Matt Holliday, The incredible headless running back, Preseason football breeds violence and Joe Namath likes cheerleaders .

NASCAR gets its 'Jerry Springer' moment, Calvin Borel gets arrested, Fan makes incredible grab, A fake Brett Favre returns to haunt Green Bay, A very unlikely triple play, and Kim Kardashian marries Kris Humphries

By Kyle Koster on August 22, 2011 5:06 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Things got heated during Saturday's NAPA 200 in Montreal. They got really heated and, well, sort of weird after the race.

Patrick Carpentier's crew chief, Jerry Baxter, sought out Steve Wallace after Wallace spun out Carpentier while attempting to go three-wide during a turn. When he found him, he did something quite unexpected.

Yep, Baxter reached into Wallace's car and pulled his hair.

"Only girls pull hair," Wallace said after making sure his follicles were OK.

Continue reading NASCAR gets its 'Jerry Springer' moment, Calvin Borel gets arrested, Fan makes incredible grab, A fake Brett Favre returns to haunt Green Bay, A very unlikely triple play, and Kim Kardashian marries Kris Humphries .

Georgetown brawls in China, Soccer fans will throw everything, You're going to need a bigger glove and a tribute to 'Swingers'

By Kyle Koster on August 18, 2011 7:04 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Georgetown's trip to China turned into a full-fledged international incident when a brawl broke out between the Hoyas and Bayi Rockets Wednesday night.

The melee was highlighted by players exchanging punches, chairs being thrown and spectators peppering Georgetown with water bottles, according to the Washington Post's Gene Wang, who was covering the exhibition game.

The ugliness was immediately preceeded by a hard foul on the Hoyas' senior guard Jason Clarke by the Rockets' Hu Ke.

Coach John Thompson III pulled his team off the floor for good after the melee and fled the arena.

"Tonight, two great teams played a very competitive game that unfortunately ended after heated exchanges with both teams," Thompson said in a statement. "We sincerely regret that this situation occurred. We remain grateful for the opportunity our student-athletes are having to engage in a sport they love here in China, while strengthening their understanding of a nation we respect and admire at Georgetown University."

Continue reading Georgetown brawls in China, Soccer fans will throw everything, You're going to need a bigger glove and a tribute to 'Swingers' .

Michael Vick opens up to GQ, Tony Romo plays hide-and-seek, Real Madrid and Barcelona fight, Tiger Woods tips, Barack Obama crushes Rajon Rondo's confidence and Candice Crawford shines

By Kyle Koster on August 18, 2011 4:46 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Potential controversy lurks when Michael Vick speaks. Even more so when he's speaking about the dogfighting conviction that cost him two years in jail.

So it's no surprise that some of his comments made in a GQ article are raising eyebrows.

"[The media is] writing as if everyone feels that way and has the same opinions they do," Vick told the magazine. "But when I go out in public, it's all positive, so that's obviously not true ... You got the family dog and the white picket fence, and you just think that's all there is. Some of us had to grow up in poverty-stricken urban neighborhoods, and we just had to adapt to our environment. I know that it's wrong. But people act like it's some crazy thing they never heard of. They don't know."

After his release from prison, Vick was fiercely contrite about his actions, but this particular interview reveals a slightly different attitude.

"For a while, it was all 'Scold Mike Vick, scold Mike Vick, just talk bad about him, like he's not a person,'" he told GQ. "It's almost as if everyone wanted to hate me. But what have I done to anybody? It was something that happened, and it was people trying to make some money."

And then there's his desire to own a dog once again.

"I miss dogs, man," Vick said. "I always had a family pet, always had a dog growing up. It was almost equivalent to the prison sentence, having something taken away from me for three years. I want a dog just for the sake of my kids, but also me. I miss my companions."

Continue reading Michael Vick opens up to GQ, Tony Romo plays hide-and-seek, Real Madrid and Barcelona fight, Tiger Woods tips, Barack Obama crushes Rajon Rondo's confidence and Candice Crawford shines.

Big Hurt beer is a thing; Trouble at Miami is nothing new; The Nets can go to Kim Kardashian's wedding; Can't spell 'elite' without Eli; Green Bay police are Packer-crazy

By Kyle Koster on August 17, 2011 9:24 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

White Sox fans nostalgic for the days when Frank Thomas ruled the South Side will be happy to know that they'll soon be able to reminisce over a frosty Big Hurt Beer.

The drink, which is supposed to become available in the Chicago area later this month, is, as you might expect, a heavy hitter. At 7.0 percent alcohol, the lager is described as "crisp" and "full-flavored" on the drink's website.

Thomas, of course, was recently toasted by the White Sox in the form of a life-sized statue inside U.S. Cellular Field.

Bottom's up, Big Hurt.

Continue reading Big Hurt beer is a thing; Trouble at Miami is nothing new; The Nets can go to Kim Kardashian's wedding; Can't spell 'elite' without Eli; Green Bay police are Packer-crazy.

Delonte West applies at Home Depot; Teddy Dupay makes surprise appearance in Miami scandal; More Brady baby; What Shaquille O'Neal really wants to do is direct; Claudine Keane bringing her many talents to Los Angeles

By Kyle Koster on August 16, 2011 6:29 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

With the NBA lockout threatening a 2011-2012 season, players are being forced to confront the issue of what they'll do with all that potential free time should there be no basketball.

Delonte West apparently has a plan. The Boston Celtics guard tweeted last week that he filled out an application to work in the exciting world of home furnishing.

"It's official.. Pride 2 the side.. just filled out a application at Home Depot.. Lockout aint a game.." West micro-blogged.

West was forced to look for a domestic job after a judge put a kibosh on any potential overseas gig due to a weapons charge.

He would be following in the footsteps of Ron Artest, who applied for a job at Circuit City while he was a rookie with the Bulls.

Continue reading Delonte West applies at Home Depot; Teddy Dupay makes surprise appearance in Miami scandal; More Brady baby; What Shaquille O'Neal really wants to do is direct; Claudine Keane bringing her many talents to Los Angeles.

LeBron gets 'dunked on' during basketball game in China

By Kyle Koster on August 16, 2011 10:16 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Everything LeBron James does now is news, so when a nameless player picks his pocket and dunks on him during a Nike event in China, you can expect the internet to notice and get all viral about it.

You'll remember that a similar video, showing Xavier's Jordan Crawford dunking on James, became the Zapruder film of sports videos two years ago.

To be fair, it doesn't look like James was 100 percent committed to blocking this particular dunk.

Video: Dave Stala's dizzy bat touchdown celebration

By Kyle Koster on August 16, 2011 7:03 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Hamilton Tiger-Cats wide receiver Dave Stala is no stranger to elaborate touchdown celebrations. In fact, his hacky-sack-inspired dance last month led the Canadian Football League to revisit its end-zone guidelines.

His latest effort is an homage to the dizzy bat race. Stala had cause to spin, spin, spin after catching a 10-yard touchdown pass from Kevin Glenn during the Tiger-Cats' victory over the Toronto Argonauts Saturday night.

Admittedly, I'm a little rusty on my CFL knowledge, but it seems Stala should have plenty of dance routines in his pocket given his penchant to score. This was his league-leading seventh touchdown reception of the year.

Texas Rangers to honor Shannon Stone with a statue

By Kyle Koster on August 16, 2011 5:05 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

The Texas Rangers will honor Shannon Stone, the fan who fell to his death during a game earlier this year, with a statue.

The bronze statute will also feature Stone's six-year-old son, Cooper, who was with him at the time of his tragic fall. It's tentatively called "Rangers Fans" and will likely be placed near the home-plate entrance of Rangers Ballpark.

"We feel that this statue will be a most fitting tribute," Rangers president Nolan Ryan said. "It will not only serve to honor Mr. Stone's memory but also recognize Rangers fans and baseball fans everywhere. I have discussed the project with Jenny Stone, and she and the Stone family will be involved in the design and creation of the statue."

The project is expected to be completed by next season.

Stone died after falling from the left-field stands while trying to catch a ball tossed by Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton on July 7. His death led to new safety protocol, including the raising of all railings, at the stadium.

Nude photos of Tom Brady's son earns blogger criticism

By Kyle Koster on August 12, 2011 8:39 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

A Boston blogger was roundly criticized and received death threats after posting a naked photo of Tom Brady's young son.

David Portnoy, who operates BarStoolSports.com, defended his decision to publish the photo of a bathing-suit-less Benjamin Brady and his mother, Gisele Bundchen, at a Costa Rican beach. The photos, taken by a paparazzo and posted on Portnoy's site, ignited a firestorm in the Boston area yesterday.

Callers flooded the phone lines of sports-talk shows to complain and many questioned if this constituted child pornography.

"It's Boston," Portnoy told NECN. "We're going to show the Gisele pictures. We saw the Brady's kid picture and basically I saw it and thought it was a funny joke. I mean really that's the nuts and bolts of it. For me it wasn't so much about the kid, it's an ongoing theme with us is that Brady is the best, Brady is God and really for us that blog was just another way to say it. It's like Brady's kid is the best, Peyton Manning's is the worst."

Continue reading Nude photos of Tom Brady's son earns blogger criticism.

Soldier Michael Harlow surprises wife after first pitch

By Kyle Koster on August 12, 2011 6:03 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

A soldier gave his wife the surprise of a lifetime Friday night before a minor league baseball game.

Darla Harlow was given the honor of tossing out the first pitch at an M-Braves game. When the throw's catcher approached to give the ceremonial ball to her, she realized it was her husband, Michael Harlow.

Harlow, an army major, was returning from a nine-month stint in Afghanistan.

The team helped Michael and his daughters set up the surprise for his wife after learning they are big M-Braves fans.

"She didn't faint," the soldier-turned-catcher said. "The last time I surprised her she fainted."

Rex Grossman says the Washington Redskins will win NFC East

By Kyle Koster on August 11, 2011 6:14 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

The last quarterback to lead--or manage--the Bears to the Super Bowl has a bold prediction for this year.

Rex Grossman, now lining up under center for the Washington Redskins, thinks his team will shock the world.

"We're fine being the sleepers right now," Grossman told CSNWashington.com. "We're just waiting in the wings ready to take over the NFC East. Nobody's talking about us, it's right where we wanna be. You look at us from top to bottom out here, there's a bunch of great players. And we don't need people saying we're the best right now. But when it's all said and done, I really feel like this team's gonna win the [NFC] East."

Continue reading Rex Grossman says the Washington Redskins will win NFC East.

Hope Solo hints at possibility of posing naked

By Kyle Koster on August 11, 2011 5:41 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Hope Solo appears to be ready for her close-up.

The U.S. women's soccer team goalkeeper hinted at the possibility of posing naked for ESPN the Magazine on her Twitter account Tuesday.

"Being naked outside is very liberating....atleast I hope it will be @ESPN and @ESPNMAG!!! GAMETIME BABY! Ball up!" Solo teased.

The magazine's "body issue" annually features nude athletes posed in high-art fashion. Last year's participants included Serena Williams, Dwight Howard and Adrian Peterson.

Solo also tweeted this photo of her frolicking in a fountain wearing only a robe.

It's a moment many sudden soccer enthusiasts have been looking forward to since hopping on the Solo bandwagon last month.

Arena Football League fan makes odd tackle

By Kyle Koster on August 10, 2011 7:59 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

An overzealous fan decided to inject himself into the action during an Arena Football League conference title game on Monday night.

C.J. Johnson of the Georgia Force was about to return a kickoff from the Jacksonville Sharks when a paying customer grabbed him from behind and refused to let go.

Johnson understandably threw up his arms in frustration and members of the Sharks' kickoff coverage team gave the fan high-fives. The man, clearly pleased with his efforts, flexed and mugged for the cameras.

Officials awarded Georgia the ball at the 20-yard line.

And since you're probably dying to know, the Sharks held on for a 64-55 win.

Chad Ochocinco wants to live with a Patriots fan

By Kyle Koster on August 10, 2011 6:31 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

New England Patriots wide receiver Chad Ochocinco is adjusting to his new team on the field. Off the field, he's a bit behind.

The outspoken Twitter enthusiast has yet to find a home in the Foxborough area, but because he's Ochocinco, he has a unique idea about his lodging in the meantime.

''I'm going to do something different, I'm actually going to stay with a fan for the first two, three weeks of the season,'' he told reporters. ''That should be fun, until I get myself acclimated and learn my way around.''

He hasn't picked out the lucky fan, but he does have some conditions that must be met.

''I'm not sure how it's going to work, but they have to have Internet and have to have Xbox,'' he said. ''That's about it.''

Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand plead with rioters

By Kyle Koster on August 9, 2011 10:01 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

English soccer stars are pleading with their countrymen via Twitter to stop the riots that are plaguing London and other major cities.

"These riots are nuts why would people do this to there (sic) own country. Own city," striker Wayne Rooney tweeted Monday. "This is embarrassing for our country. Stop please."

The violence and looting prompted the cancellation of a friendly between England and the Netherlands Wednesday at London's Wembley Stadium.

Defender Rio Ferdinand categorized the unrest as "madness" and wondered if increased military presence would restore some order.

"It seems these kids/people have no fear or respect for the police....maybe the army will get that respect??" Ferdinand tweeted. "The presence of the army may make these kids/people think twice about continuing this??"

Tampa Bay Rays fans fight over foul ball in garbage can

By Kyle Koster on August 9, 2011 6:43 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

It's no secret that kids and adults alike are foul-ball crazy. If for some reason you need yet another reminder, here's a bizarre sequence of events that took place over the weekend at Tropicana Field.

In the bottom of the sixth inning, Tampa Bay Rays shortstop Sean Rodriguez sliced a fly ball into the stands down the right-field line that found its way into a trash can. As one fan dutifully dove headfirst into the unsanitary realm for a souvenir, another overly zealous ball hawk jumped into the fray. A bit of a fracas broke out and ballpark security stepped in and took control.

One fan was apparently ejected and the ball was deemed best left in the trash receptacle because it was causing too much trouble amongst the fans near the party area.

Kyle Orton is the Denver Broncos' No. 1 quarterback, not too concerned with the fans

By Kyle Koster on August 9, 2011 5:44 AM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

The Denver Broncos quarterback battle appears to have a winner, and it's not the fan favorite.

Kyle Orton is listed above Tim Tebow on the team's depth chart, which was released yesterday in advance of the preseason opener in Dallas.

While Orton getting the starting nod isn't a great surprise--he's taken a majority of snaps with the first team during practice--it's not exactly the most popular decision among the fan base, where Tebow is a more preferred choice.

The ex-Bear doesn't seem to care what they think, though, judging by comments he made on Monday.

Continue reading Kyle Orton is the Denver Broncos' No. 1 quarterback, not too concerned with the fans.

Joe Paterno hospitalized after collision with wide receiver

By Kyle Koster on August 8, 2011 5:36 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Penn State coaching legend Joe Paterno was hospitalized after a collision with one of his wide receivers during practice on Sunday.

The 84-year-old was undergoing tests on his right arm and hip, the school announced Monday. Wideout Devon Smith blindsided the Hall of Fame coach during drills.

"I expect to be back at practice soon," Paterno said in a statement. "I'm doing fine; tell everyone not to worry about me."

Paterno could be released within the next 24 hours and surgery will likely not be needed, the school said.

Michigan State's Jerel Worthy gets tattoo of Spartan crushing a wolverine

By Kyle Koster on August 8, 2011 9:31 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Michigan State defensive end Jerel Worthy has taken the heated in-state rivalry with Michigan to his left bicep in the form of an enormous tattoo that depicts a Spartan crushing a wolverine.

"It was something that I just thought up," Worthy told the Dayton Daily News. "I was thinking about getting a Spartans tattoo anyway. I threw a couple ideas up in the air and this is what we came up with."

The junior said he was with some members of the Wolverines football team when he got the work done.

"They actually thought it was pretty cool," he said.

Worthy is no stranger to throwing down the gauntlet for Big Ten rivals. In June, he did some trash-talking to Wisconsin after the transfer of quarterback Russell Wilson was announced.

Real Madrid signs 7-year-old Leonel Angel Coira

By Kyle Koster on August 8, 2011 8:29 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Real Madrid has signed an Argentine prospect they hope will develop into a productive member of its parent club. That's not really surprising. The fact that the budding star, Leonel Angel Coira, is a seven-year-old does raise some eyebrows.

The youngster told a newspaper in Argentina that he prefers to be called Leo, after his idol-- Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi. He also revealed that he likes to set up other teammates instead of score goals himself.

Real Madrid reportedly pushed to sign Coira because Spanish League rival Atletico Madrid was also interested in the boy.

Coira will begin training on Sept. 6, according to a team spokesman.

Nani's full-pitch injury time goal caps Manchester United win over Manchester City

By Kyle Koster on August 7, 2011 11:51 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Nani's dramatic injury time goal lifted Manchester United over Manchester City in Saturday's season-opening Community Shield match.

The remarkable goal capped off a three-goal United comeback at Wembley Stadium in London.

It was Nani's second goal of the day and obviously involved a lot more running than the first.

Brett Favre update #2,392: No interest in joining Miami Dolphins

By Kyle Koster on August 6, 2011 9:37 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

It's that time of the year where Brett Favre is rumored to be coming out of retirement to join a team that needs a savior.

The latest team to be connected to the 41-year-old gunslinger is the Miami Dolphins. Fans are booing current quarterback Chad Henne at practice and letting their desire for Kyle Orton be known. So, hey, anything is possible.

But for now, Favre says he has "no interest" in bringing his talents to South Beach.

The Miami Herald's Jeff Darlington embarked on a prolonged stakeout of Favre in Mississippi, which resulted in what reads to be a very brief, very straightforward question-and-answer session.

"I haven't heard anything, and I don't have any interest," Favre responded when asked about the speculation. "No."

"You're from Miami?" he continued. "Don't you have anything better to do?"

So there you have it. Favre, at this time, is not coming back. I am sure this is the end of this story forever.

Ben Roethlisberger to appear in new Batman movie

By Kyle Koster on August 6, 2011 7:11 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Ben Roethlisberger and 12 of his Pittsburgh Steelers teammates will help film the new Batman movie today at Heinz Field.

Other notable players ready for their close-up include Hines Ward, Willie Colon, Maurkice Pouncey, Mike Wallace, Heath Miller, Aaron Smith, Ryan Clark, Troy Polamalu, James Farrior and Casey Hampton.

The Steelers will portray the Gotham football team in the upcoming "Dark Knight Rises," the third Christopher Nolan film in the Batman series. Roethlisberger's friendship with the movie's executive producer, Thomas Tull, landed the players the roles.

"I'm kind of getting everybody together," the quarterback said. "I don't think it will be a big part; it's not like we're chasing Batman down or anything. It's something neat that in 10 years or 20 years we can tell our kids we were in a movie. Thomas does movies big, and I'm sure it will be a big-time movie and something fun to be part of."

Colorado Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio hospitalized after taking line drive to head

By Kyle Koster on August 6, 2011 6:45 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Colorado Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio was taken to the hospital after he was struck in the head by a line drive off the bat of Washington's Ian Desmond in the second inning of Friday night's game at Coors Field.

Nicasio lay on the field for five minutes before medical staff carted him off in a stretcher. The Rockies announced later in the game that the right-hander was resting comfortably and undergoing "a battery of tests."

Both teams showed visible concern for Nicasio after the incident and Desmond asked to be updated on the pitcher's condition repeatedly throughout the game.

Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki said the players were told Nicasio suffered some type of "neck injury."

"Our whole focus right now in that locker room is Juan," Tulowitzki said. "We're obviously very worried. Our thoughts and prayers are with him. It's scary. We come out there and play baseball every day and some crazy things can happen."

Michael Beasley, Matt Barnes each involved in on-court fights

By Kyle Koster on August 5, 2011 6:26 AM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

Kevin Durant's 66-point, show-stopping performance at Rucker Park earlier this week showed magic can happen when one of the game's best athletes performs in an intimate setting. Today, we learn that not every NBA-player-infused pickup game is a feel-good story.

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Michael Beasley got into an altercation with a fan during a game in New York City and Los Angeles Lakers forward Matt Barnes allegedly threw a punch during a pro-am game in San Francisco.

Beasley, who was involved in some back-and-forth jawing with the crowd while battling Durant on the floor, approached and pushed a fan who had been heckling him.

"He just mushed me. He mushed me in my face," Garland Quince said. "I was arguing about a [Kevin] Durant call and he just mushed me in my face."

Continue reading Michael Beasley, Matt Barnes each involved in on-court fights.

Joey Bouchard's leg is a living tribute to John Elway

By Kyle Koster on August 4, 2011 12:07 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

You probably think you love your favorite player. You probably think you love your favorite team. But do you have tangible proof of this devotion?

Joey Bouchard does. Big time.

The Broncos enthusiast has a giant tattoo of famed quarterback John Elway that spans the entire length of his left leg. His shin features an old orange No. 7 jersey that Elway used to wear and a portrait of the Hall of Famer on his thigh.

Bouchard said the masterpiece took a total of 85 hours to complete.

But don't think he's going to stand pat in the ink department. He plans to get tattoos of Elway's Super Bowl rings and wants the famous Bronco himself to sign his leg, which would be turned into yet another tattoo.

He's nothing if not thorough.

Bouchard's tribute has gained a lot of national attention over the past few days, and while it's quite impressive, I can't help but think that this Bears fan may have him beat.

Casey Anthony spotted wearing Ohio State hat

By Kyle Koster on August 4, 2011 10:27 AM | 22 Comments | No TrackBacks

Pictures of Casey Anthony wearing an Ohio State hat surfaced yesterday on TMZ, reportedly taken while she was out on a mid-day shopping trip on Sunday. This, of course, marked the first time Anthony had been seen in public since she was acquitted last month.

The celebrity gossip website contacted the university for comment on being thrust into the Anthony media frenzy.

"We are never surprised to see Buckeye pride displayed across the world," an Ohio State representative told TMZ. "Buckeye hoodies and hats have traditionally been spotted across the world, and we understand that as a result, our logo will be seen in a wide range of news situations, whether positive or negative."

LeBron James defends Tim Tebow after Merril Hoge's criticism

By Kyle Koster on August 4, 2011 8:27 AM | 1 Comment | No TrackBacks

In Denver they're dealing with a unique quarterback controversy.

Last year's starter, Kyle Orton, had a pretty solid year considering he was on a 4-12 team. But the guy he's competing against, well, is Tim Tebow. And Tebow has a certain je ne sais quoi that has endeared him to some and caused him to be reviled by others.

The weird situation is known simply as "The Tebow Thing." And it is very real. You can read about it in today's Sun-Times, in fact.

ESPN analyst Merril Hoge made it known in no certain terms which quarterback he believes should be handed the Broncos' reins.

Spolier alert: it's not Tebow.

Continue reading LeBron James defends Tim Tebow after Merril Hoge's criticism.

Darius Miles arrested on gun charge at St. Louis airport

By Kyle Koster on August 4, 2011 6:25 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Former NBA player Darius Miles was arrested Wednesday afternoon after allegedly attempting to bring a loaded firearm through security at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.

Transportation Security Authority workers identified the weapon through X-ray screening, according to officials.

It's unclear if the gun was was in Miles' luggage or on his person.

He was booked on suspicion of unlawful use of a weapon and the St. Louis County prosecutor's office will review the case to decide whether charges will be filed.

Miles, 29, was drafted by the Los Angeles Clippers with the third overall pick in the 2000 NBA draft. His last action in the league came in 2009 with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Chivas de Guadajara's Marco Fabian scores amazing goal against Barcelona

By Kyle Koster on August 4, 2011 5:49 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

A well-executed, goal-scoring bicycle kick is special. When it is the deciding goal in a victory over the world's top club, well, it's really special.

Chivas de Guadalajara's Marco Fabian turned in this highlight last night in a 4-1 victory over FC Barcelona in a friendly at Sun Life Stadium in Miami. He also added another goal that was slightly less impressive, which is why you won't see it here.

Northwestern's new basketball court could be very, very purple

By Kyle Koster on August 3, 2011 8:39 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Brace yourself, Northwestern hoops fans, you could be in store for a healthy dose of the color purple next season.

The school's athletic department has posted four potential designs for the new basketball court at Welsh-Ryan Arena on Facebook and one of them definitely stands out. It features a predominately purple floor, with the area inside the 3-point lines painted white. The other three designs are much more traditional, but employ different logos at the mid-court stripe.

The winning design will be unveiled in mid-August.

Continue reading Northwestern's new basketball court could be very, very purple.

Ichiro Suzuki imposter interferes with ball during Seattle Mariners game

By Kyle Koster on August 3, 2011 6:12 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

The Oakland Athletics-Seattle Mariners game Tuesday night took a surreal turn when an Ichiro Suzuki look-a-like interfered with a ball hit by Dustin Ackley.

Ackley, the Mariners second baseman, rocketed a shot down the right-field line that came to a stop a few feet in front of the fake Ichiro. The man, who had been posing for pictures and signing autographs around Safeco Field the past couple of days, decided to reach out over the railing and pick up the baseball. Had he let it be, Ackley would have had an easy triple. The home crowd was not exactly thrilled with the interference and let the imposter know it with their boos.

This, of course, was not exactly the type of attention Me-Chiro was seeking.

Continue reading Ichiro Suzuki imposter interferes with ball during Seattle Mariners game.

Mets kidcaster Jacob Resnick calls Jose Reyes' home run flawlessly

By Kyle Koster on August 3, 2011 4:55 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

New York Mets fans were treated to a smooth, professional call of Jose Reyes' third-inning home run against the Florida Marlins on SNY last night. Pretty impressive, really, considering that it was done by an 11-year-old.

Jacob Resnick was the Mets kidcaster this year, which means he got to call an inning of action. For the second straight year, the kidcaster had a home-team home run happen on his watch.

But Resnick certainly didn't panic. He lifted his pre-pubescent voice dramatically (back it gooooooooes) as the ball flew toward the wall and managed to work in a lot of specifics into his call before dropping an emphatic "it's gone."

The kid's future is bright. And I got to think he's going to be pretty popular when school resumes in the fall.

Kevin Durant scores 66 points in Rucker Park game

By Kyle Koster on August 2, 2011 8:11 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Oklahoma City Thunder star Kevin Durant showed up to play some ball at New York City's famous Rucker Park Monday night. He did pretty well, scoring 66 points and authoring this tremendous stretch of sharpshooting.

It was Durant's first foray onto the Harlem courts and it certainly seems like he enjoyed his time. Judging by the hysteria in the video, he wasn't alone.

"No lie, jus had one of the best times of my life at Rucker park..wow!" Durant tweeted after his show-stopping performance.

Ellis Coleman's 'flying squirrel' move really taking off

By Kyle Koster on August 2, 2011 5:56 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

That's Ellis Coleman, an American junior wrestler, pulling off an absolutely insane move against Iran's Mehdi Chooli Zeidvand at the junior world championships last week in Romania.

They call the move "the flying squirrel." Don't try it at home--or really anywhere.

The unorthodox takedown helped propel him to a third-place finish in the championships.

Rex Ryan wants you to guess the meaning of his new tattoo

By Kyle Koster on August 2, 2011 5:14 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Among the new additions to the New York Jets this year is a gaudy calf tattoo unveiled by Rex Ryan Monday during the team's first day of training camp.

The outspoken coach got the tribal-inspired ink while vacationing in Hawaii last month.

Why, you ask?

"I just felt like it," Ryan said in a statement.

Ryan was not asked about the tattoo by reporters, but still decided to get ahead of the story. He released a video on Facebook soliciting fans to guess the meaning of the design. The big reveal will happen around 11 a.m. today.

Have a @#$%ing snack at the ready.

Randy Moss retires from NFL, but this celebration is forever

By Kyle Koster on August 1, 2011 12:23 PM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Randy Moss has unexpectedly decided to retire from the National Football League after 13 seasons.

After the Minnesota Vikings selected the Marshall standout with a first-round pick in 1998, the extremely gifted and controversial wide receiver authored numerous highlights in a hall-of-fame caliber career.

But there is one moment that stands out among them all. This celebration at Lambeau Field in a 2005 game, where he fake-mooned the Packers crowd.

Happy trails, Randy. Keep your pants on.

Cops say Samaki Walker tried to eat marijuana during traffic stop

By Kyle Koster on August 1, 2011 9:38 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Former NBA player Samaki Walker allegedly tried to eat marijuana after being pulled over in his 2002 Mercedes-Benz on Thursday, according to a report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Ten grams of marijuana, prescription drugs and eight bottles of liquid steroids were recovered from Walker's vehicle, officials said.

Walker, who still plays professionally in Syria, said he uses the steroids to improve his athletic performance.

The former Louisville star was selected by the Dallas Mavericks with the ninth overall pick in the 1996 NBA draft and spent 10 years in the league.

He was booked on drug charges and has an Aug. 5 court date.

John Grabow catches Alfonso Soriano's home run in his hat

By Kyle Koster on August 1, 2011 7:06 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Relief pitchers have a lot of time to kill out in the bullpen while they wait for their turn to pitch. Perhaps Cubs lefty John Grabow has been using his down time to practice the very unique skill of catching baseballs in his hat.

And if so, all his hard work paid off in the ninth inning of last night's game against the St. Louis Cardinals when Alfonso Soriano blasted a two-run homer his way.

No word on if Grabow was fulfilling a promise Kramer made to Bobby in the hospital.

Toni Kukoc denies involvement in prostitution scandal

By Kyle Koster on August 1, 2011 6:30 AM | No Comments | No TrackBacks

Former Bulls forward Toni Kukoc's name has been tied to a massive prostitution ring in his native country, according to multiple reports. He denies the allegations.

The Croatian Times called to get Kukoc's reaction to being named as a "beneficiary" of the elite ring's services. He didn't seem all that worried about it.

"I was in worse situations in life," he said. "What should I do? Return home to Split? Of course I will stay in Osijek."

Last week, physiotherapist Nebojsa Perunovic Pance was arrested and charged with pimping a network of starlets, would-be models and other glitterati to rich businessman. A Croatian newspaper, Jutarnji List, wrote that one young woman was told to offer sexual services to Kukoc.

Kukoc spent seven seasons in Chicago and helped the Bulls win three NBA championships during his time here.

August 2011 Archives

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