Super Bowl Insight, and Pick

Here is our Patrick Higgins, giving his insight into the Super Bowl this Sunday. He gives you some offensive and defensive stats from each team, and his pick for who will win the big game. Check it out, you'll enjoy it!!!!

Article by Patrick Higgins

The biggest news in sports this week is that the Super Bowl is this Sunday. As a recap, the New England Patriots will play the Seattle Seahawks, for the Lombardy Trophy.

Before I get into my pick for the Super Bowl, let’s get into some stats for both teams. The Patriots are the away team, and are 5-3 in road games this season. Seattle is the home team, and they are 7-1 at home this season, granted the full strength of the 12th man won’t be in Arizona on Sunday.

Here are some other offensive stats. Both teams this year are 12-4. The Patriots are averaging 366 yards per game, and the Seahawks are averaging 376 yards per game. The Patriots are averaging 258 yards per game, and the Seahawks are averaging 203 yards per game. The Patriots are also averaging 108 yards rushing per game, and the Seahawks are averaging 178 yards per game.

Let’s move to some defensive stats. The Patriots are allowing 344 yards per game, and the Seahawks are allowing 267 yards per game. The Patriots are also allowing 240 passing yards per game, and Seahawks are allowing 240 yards per game. The last stat we’ll go over is rush yards allowed. The Patriots are allowing 104 yards rushing per game, and the Seahawks are allowing 82 rushing yards per game.

Ok, now it is time for my pick for the Super Bowl. I think this game is going to come down to if the Seattle Seahawks can run the ball and, get Marshawn Lynch going. If they can do this, then they will win the game. My pick for Super Bowl 49, is the Seattle Seahawks 24-21. I just can’t pick against the running game and the defense for the Seahawks.

UConn Mens’ and Women’s Basketball Midseason

Here is another outstanding article, from our UCONN expert Art Benedict!!!! Lets see how Art thinks the UCONN men's and women's basketball teams performed in the first half of the season.


Article by Art Benedict

So now that we’ve talked about the UConn men’s and women’s roster, primarily the rookies that have graced us with their presence and even individual games and the like, it’s time to take a look at what happened so far and what lies ahead for both the men and women Huskies before we get into the AAC tournament and possibly beyond.

First let’s take a look at the men’s basketball team. Coming off a season in which no one (including this sports broadcaster) thought that the UConn Huskies would be crowned National Champions for the 2013-2014 basketball season, this year’s team returned one of the main cogs in the wheel and that was Ryan Boatright. Boatright has done everything he possibly can to keep this boat upright (I know, that’s bad). But you get what I am trying to say. He is averaging 16.5 ppg, and has a .427 FG percentage and a .814 FT percentage. The only other Husky averaging in double figures in points is Amidah Brimah with 10.4 ppg. Everyone else is averaging in single digit scoring.

They began the season with (3) straight wins (Bryant, College of Charleston, and Dayton), but then followed that up with (3) straight losses, (West Virginia, ranked Texas, and then Yale). They had a hard fought loss against then #2 Duke 66-56, but it still goes in the books as an “L”. Since then they have gone 7-3 with the latest winning streak at (2) games against the two Florida teams (USF & UCF).  So right now the Huskies stand at 11-7 overall and 4-2 in the conference. Not an overly impressive record for the defending National Champs, but there is still time to salvage the season and possibly make the NCAA tournament in March. Here’s what has to happen. After beating Cincinnati back on Jan. 10th 62-56 the Huskies have to play them again on Thursday in Cincinnati. This is a huge game for the Huskies if they can sweep the season series from the Bearcats. Boatright will have to be his Boat Show self and he will have to get good contributions from his supporting cast. The rest of their schedule (11) games are  all in the AAC with three of the teams (SMU, Memphis and Tulane) all with winning records and having to play them both twice After a road game in Cincy, (6) of the remaining (11) games will be on the road.  So it will be an uphill battle for the men’s basketball team to get back to the NCAA tournament in March, and you can bet Coach Kevin Ollie will keep his eye on the prize.

Grade: B-

 

It seems like the UConn women on the other hand are in cruise control. After an early 88-83 OT loss to Stanford, the lady Huskies have rattled off 17 victories in a row including a surprisingly lopsided 76-58 victory over arch rival Notre Dame back on Dec. 6th. Breanna Stewart remains the center point of the Huskies offense even though she has been up and down offensively. Stewy has started all 20 games and averages just over 27 minutes per game. Kalena Mosqueda-Lewis is as dynamic a 3 point shooter as you will see and recently became the all-time 3 point leader in UConn history surpassing Diana Turasi. And as recently as last night’s 87-32 rout of East Carolina, Kiah Stokes recorded a triple double.  (10 points, 10 rebounds and a school record 11 blocked shots) and is a major part of why the Huskies hold their opponents to less than 50% shooting. And Mariah Jefferson seems to be all over the court at the same time. Not to mention the inside game of the now healthy Morgan Tuck. The Husky women have (10) games left and the way they are destroying opponents it will be hard pressed to believe that they will not win the AAC Tournament and gain a #1 seed in the upcoming NCAA playoffs in March. If things keep playing out the way they are, all eyes will be on February 9th at Gampel Pavilion when the top ranked South Carolina Gamecocks come to town. I will be business as usual for head coach Geno Auriemma until then.

Grade: A

Next week:  The coaches.

Top 5 Red Sox Prospects 2015

Here is another awesome article from our Chris Saunders, about the Boston Red Sox's top prospect.

Article by Chris Saunders                           

#1- Henry Owens LHP- Owens throws his fastball in the low 90s, and it plays up, thanks to his deceptive delivery of which he hides the ball behind is back and curls the ball like a weight. His long arms of which coincide with his 6’6 frame allow him to extend more towards the catcher. Owens' changeup gives him a second plus pitch with added tumble and sink, and his slow curveball flashes the potential to be a third above-average offering, though it remains inconsistent. If Owens can change the shape/tilt of his breaking ball from 12-6 break/11/-5 break on occasion it will allow his change up to be even that more deadly. Owens' command isn't great as are most tall pitchers especially this young “23”. He has a good feel for pitching and continues to miss bats as he rises through the Minors. He has a ceiling of a No. 2 starter if he can continue to improve his overall command and change speeds to fool hitters on both sides of the plate. 

#2 Blake Swihart Catcher- Swihart wasn’t initially a catcher, as he played infield in high school, but the Red Sox felt his position to stardom was catcher.  Swihart threw out 42 percent of would-be basestealers in 2013 thanks to his quick feet and transfer ability. When you combine that with a 70 arm(close to plus plus 20-80 scale), that will leading the Carolina League. He has improved his game management, and he uses his athleticism well behind the plate. As a young catcher you have to find a happy medium between both your bat and defensive, but somehow Blake has been able to manager both, getting rave reviews from the pitching staff for how he handles himself as a game caller.  A switch-hitter, Swihart makes consistent hard contact from both sides of the plate. His swing is more geared for line drives now, but he projects to have average power. Swihart has toned down his aggressive approach somewhat, though he wouldn't be confused with a patient hitter. He is faster than most catchers, and he isn't a base clogger. Swihart is still a work in progress, but he has the potential to be an impact player in the Major Leagues

#3 Eduardo Rodriguez LHP- Rodriguez has made steady improvement since signing out of Venezuela as a 17-year-old in 2010. He made a big jump in 2013 when he reached Double-A Bowie, and then finished the year as the starting pitcher in the Arizona Fall League championship game. The Orioles used him as trade bait at the 2014 Deadline, sending him to the Red Sox for Andrew Miller. Initially more of a command-and-control lefty, Rodriguez has grown into his lanky frame 6’2 200 LBS and has seen his velocity jump as a result. He now throws his fastball in the low 90s, with good sink and movement on both sides of the plate. Rodriguez pairs his fastball with a hard changeup with excellent bite and sink that has received some plus grades 65-70. A tight slider that use to be more of a slurvy type pitch, now has sharper break and depth that fools both right/left handed hitters. He has the potential to a middle-rotation-starter, but the sky is the limit for this 22 year old.

#4  Garin Cecchini Third Baseman-  Cecchini simply finds a way to put the bat on the ball, spraying line drives to all fields. He is a very patient hitter, and he doesn't strike out much. Cecchini's frame portends him eventually developing solid power, but it isn't a big part of his game yet. He is an average runner, but his impressive instincts allow that speed to play up on the basepaths. Cecchini is a capable third baseman and has a strong arm. The Red Sox need outfield help, so they gave him some time in left field in 2014. Cecchini's work ethic and makeup earn rave reviews, and he won the '13 Stenson Award for sportsmanship in the Arizona Fall League.

#5 Trey Ball LHP- An excellent athlete, Ball was considered the top two-way player in the 2013 Draft class. In the end, however, scouts couldn't pass up his combination of size and stuff from the left side, and Boston selected him seventh overall as a pitcher. Ball throws his fastball in the low 90s, and there is projection left in his lanky frame. He only began throwing a curveball a couple years ago, but it already shows the potential to be an above-average pitch. In the absence of a breaking ball, Ball's changeup blossomed, and it has the potential to develop into a plus offering. Despite his height, Ball's athleticism gives him a chance to learn how to repeat his delivery well enough to have solid command. Though he is further away than most of the Red Sox's top pitching prospects, Ball's ceiling might be the highest of all of them.

Stay tuned for new articles tomorrow!!!! 

UConn Men’s New Kids on the Block

Here he is again, the man you need to talk to about UCONN Basketball, Art Benedict!!!! In this article, Art discusses the freshman players on the UCONN Men's Basketball team. Enjoy UCONN fans, I did!!!!


Article by Art Benedict

So last week we looked at the new freshman class on the UConn women’s basketball team, Kia Nurse, Cody Ekmark, and Gabby Williams. So now it’s on to the new kids on the block for the men’s basketball team. There are two true freshmen on the team in Rakim Lubin and Daniel Hamilton. Rodney Purvis and Sam Cassell Jr. are redshirt sophomores, so we will leave them in the honorable mention category.

DANIEL HAMILTON

Daniel Hamilton is a 6-6, 175 pound shooting guard who came to UConn from St. John’s Bosco High School in L.A. Hamilton. He was also ranked 30^th in the top one hundred recruits as voted on by ESPN. According to one scouting report on Hamilton, they listed him as a thin shooting guard who is a confident scorer, and who is willing to shoot from just about anywhere. Quick to the rim and slippery with the ball, his lack of strength causes issues for him at times. A natural scorer, he's sometimes a little too confident and trigger happy with his jumper. And we have seen that from him in the time he has spent as a starter for the Huskies. Texas El Paso coach Tim Floyd had this to say about Daniel Hamilton. “(UConn) is going to give him the opportunity, that’s all he asks for,” said Taylor, who also coached current Husky standout DeAndre Daniels at L.A.’s Taft High. “Hamilton is going to make his way. You’ll find out, he’s one of the most competitive individuals. And he thinks he’s better than everyone, so he’s going to try, try, try. I think you guys will love him. He’ll play so hard, and he’ll play the game correctly.” Hamilton previously attended Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles, alma mater of UConn coach Kevin Ollie. He averaged 20.5 points. 9.0 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.3 steals as a senior, leading the Braves to a 23-11 record and the California Division II state championship. With UConn, Hamilton has started every game and before Tuesday night’s 66-58 loss to Tulsa, averaged 10.7 PPG, 6.13 RPG, and has a .360 3-point field goal percentage. Hamilton is known as a deadly outside shooter, isn’t afraid to make his way to the basket, and is considered a pretty good defender.  Hamilton is the youngest of 6 children. His brothers are Zell, Gary, Jordan, Isaac and his sisters name is Miya. Gary was a four-year letter winner at the University of Miami (Fla.) and played professionally overseas. Jordan attended the University of Texas and started this season with the NBA's Utah Jazz after two years with the Denver Nuggets. Isaac is a redshirt freshman this season at UCLA.

Rakim Lubin

There are many who have seen Rakim Lubin play this season and believe that before the 2014-2015 men’s basketball season is over, he will be a fan favorite. Lubin, who is 6-8, 260 pounds, was recently described by head coach Kevin Ollie as “muscles on top of muscles”. Another recent article in SportzEdge.com described him as “the type of guy who looks like he eats car batteries for breakfast, and could steal your lunch money from you simply by saying, “hi”. They did say, however, that Lubin was a great kid. In the game last Saturday against Cincinnati at the XL Center (Yes, I was there), with 5:57 to play and UConn clinging to a 3-point lead, Rakim Lubin wanted in. After Ollie witnessed a couple of guys pushing his player around, Lubin was subbed in for Amida Brimah, who picked up his 4^th personal foul, and he immediately blocked a shot to restore order. His numbers in high school attest to that. He averaged 21 points and 13 rebounds for his senior season at Buford High in Georgia, and was named the MVP of the Georgia North-South All Star game. He also had a 37 point, 21 rebound, 5 blocked shot performance in the semi-final of that tournament. With the likes of Ryan Boatright, Rodney Purvis, Daniel Hamilton and Kentan Facey, Lubin won’t be called upon to score a lot of points for the Huskies. What he will be called upon to do is to become a bully at rebounding. When you look at other players in UConn history, you can compare Lubin to the likes of Rod Sellers in the early 90’s right through Alex Oriachi in 2011. He could be compared to fan favorites Kevin Freeman and Jeff Adrian. They didn’t’ care about points or scoring, but they cared about crashing the boards and shutting players down on defense.

We still don’t know what the remainder of the season will bring for UConn as they struggle to defend their National Championship from last season, but one thing is for sure, you will hear the names Daniel Hamilton and Rakim Lubin a lot this season. You can also count on some exciting games from UConn. (Cincinnati, Tulsa), and you can take it to the bank that the fans will support these Huskies as well.  UConn! UConn! UConn! Huskies! Woo!

 Next week: Mid- season report card time

Was it a Catch or wasn’t it?

Our own Chris Saunders gives his opinion, on the no catch call against Dez Bryant, and the Cowboys last weekend. This article will also give Chris' insight into what the Cowboys need to do this offseason. Cowboy fans, you need to read this article!!!!

Article by Chris Saunders

If you would have thought that the NFL Playoffs wouldn’t be filled with some drama, sadly you where highly mistaken. First we had the infamous defensive pass interference call in the Detroit-Cowboys game. At first the ref’s were going to call a penalty on rookie J.J Wilcox, but somehow the flag was picked up without much of an explanation. Then we had a conversational call regarding the patriots using legal/illegal men during their offensive drives almost to confuse the Ravens, which they did eventually win 35-31.

That brings us to Green bay against my Dallas Cowboys. It was 4^th down and 2, on the Green Bay 35 yard line, and 4:40 left in the fourth quarter. Dallas has the ball knowing if they don’t convert here the game is over. Romo calls for an out rout, making Dez have single coverage, and on Romo’s last bit of strength he throws an almost accurate pass high enough for Dez to leap over Green Bay’s Cornerback Sam Shields. Dez somehow is able to grab the ball and come down in fair territory. As he comes down he tries to stretch his right arm out to score the go ahead touchdown for Dallas. Both Dez and Dallas think they have a touchdown, but the sideline ref say’s he is down at the one yard line. Green Bay’s head coach Mike McCarthy, doesn’t feel like Dez has complete control of the ball, and throws the challenge flag. McCarthy had only won one challenge all regular season for Green Bay, but after further review the ref’s said Dez didn’t have full control, and it was an incomplete pass. This gave the ball back to the Packers, and would beat Dallas 26-21. There have been numerous coverage and media reports regarding this play. This is the conclusion I have made.

According to rule 8, Section 1, Article 1, Item one, it’s stated that “If a player goes to the ground in the act of catching a pass (with or without contact by an opponent), he must maintain control of the ball throughout the process of contacting the ground, whether in the field of play or the end zone. If he loses control of the ball, and the ball touches the ground before he regains control, the pass is incomplete. If he regains control prior to the ball touching the ground, the pass is complete." While Dez did lose control of the ball, if you look more carefully he was fully down both knees and arms. As he was down and no one touched him he was trying to do what he has always done when he is close to the end zone; which is dive and get the touchdown that he sole heartily deserves. I’ve heard from many people that no matter how you twist and turn this, the rule states that if the player doesn’t have 100% full control through the catch and/or the ball touches the ground, it’s an incomplete pass.

Being a cowboys fan, I was watching the game after the play was overturned and I thought to myself, “Is this payback from the ref’s for what had happened in Jerry World a week ago?” It quite possibly could have had something to do with it, but in a lot of ways Dallas shouldn’t have been in that position in the first place. They let Green Bay battle back from being down 21-13, they let Rodgers go almost untouched in the second half going 7-7 in the last drive as he embarked on two 80+ yard drives. There is also the fumble by Murray as he was trying to stretch out for a couple of more yards, and the time out before the half that negated the forward progress that the zebras gave Witten on his catch causing Dallas to kick a 50 yard field goal, and miss (thanks to the snappers false start).

In conclusion it was a catch, but this was a season to remember personally for myself, because I heard through the summer the cowboys would be 3-13/dead last in the division/ be the sorry mediocrity that they have been going 8-8 the last three years. It wasn’t anything close to that, as Dallas went 12-4, won a playoff game and were able to close out games either in overtime/or more importantly the fourth quarter, which had plagued them for so many years. The future in Dallas is bright, but in order to sustain this, the cowboys need to take care of expiring contracts- RB Demarco Murray, WR Dez Bryant, and Offensive Coordinator’s Scoot Linehan/Bill Callahan. Dallas only went as far as they did this season because of Demarco Murray rushing for over 1,800 yards. Dez Bryant has emerged as one of the best receivers in the NFL, and a definite deep threat for Tony Romo. Scott Linehan bringing in his own style of running the ball first, and having that offensive line full of first round picks most notability Pro Bowl/All Pro rookie Zac Martin (taken over Johnny Manziel). If Dallas can keep this core and keep improving on the defense side of the ball, there is no reason why Dallas won’t be competing next year, and possibly reach the super bowl.                

Thank you all for visiting the WAPJ Sports Blog!!!! The sports department here at WAPJ, loves posting articles for you to read. We thank you all for your support, and get ready for more articles every week!!!!

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK

In another amazing article about the UCONN women's basketball team, our own Art Benedict gives an amazing insight into the freshman players on this years squad!!!!

Article by Art Benedict

The UConn women’s basketball team has been an elite group to say the least. The Huskies have won 9 NCAA Division I national championships, advanced to 15 Final Fours, and won over 30 Big East/AAC regular season and tournament championships. UConn has also been one of the leaders in women's basketball history. There have been many great players (too many to mention and hit them all on this blog), but the one thing that all of them have in common is that they all started out as freshman. And this year’s team is not different. So let’s take a closer look at the freshman of this year’s UConn squad.

KIA NURSE

Kia Nurse makes her home in Hamilton, Ontario Canada. She attended St. Thomas More Catholic High School and led her team to gold at the AAAA OFSAA Championship in 2012 and 2013. She also won five straight Provincial Championships with Team Ontario and was selected as the Tournament MVP on both occasions. Her team finished third in the World Qualifiers and also took third in the World Championships with Team Canada. Kia has won two Hazel Minor Awards and two Player of the Year Honors for Basketball Ontario. Oh yes, and she was also honored as her soccer teams MVP in 2012.

As a Husky, and coming onto a defending National Championship team, Kia knew the difficulties and what she expected of herself. “I knew that I needed to be more aggressive offensively. I knew passivity was not going to work anymore. The coaches had confidence in me and they’ve let that be known. It was important for me to know that and it was important helping me get going”. And get going she has done. Nurse is averaging almost 13 points a game and almost 4 rebounds as well.

And Hall of Fame coach Geno Auriemma’s comments concerning Kia’s role compared to what she did with her high school team in Canada? “"For us, her role is more than that (meaning getting the ball to her open player), and we're constantly urging her to do more, do more, do more, because she's capable of doing more. The intensity level she's playing at, all the plays that she makes, all she gets accomplished on the court, I'm not surprised."

COURTNEY EKMARK

Courtney Ekmark missed nine games with a stress fracture reaction in her right foot before returning on a Wednesday night against East Carolina, and scored the first basket of her collegiate career with 13:30 to play on a backdoor layup. Before that Ekmark only appeared in the opening game of the season against UC Davis before being sidelined, playing only 10 minutes and was 1 of 4 from the field with two rebounds. Although she has not played much so far for UConn, she has a very impressive resume coming from Saint Mary’s High School in Phoenix Arizona. She was considered one of the best shooters in the country in her high school class, not to mention that she was on track to be valedictorian at her high school. She elected to be home schooled in her senior year so that she could meet with business leaders and gain different experiences. There is life after basketball however.

The 6 foot guard comes from a line of athletic prowess. Her father Curtis was a basketball player at Marquette, and her Mom played tennis there. She has also trained with family friend and former Phoenix Suns head coach and player Frank Johnson. Ekmark’s Saint Mary’s high school team won three state titles and a national championship in 2012. Even though she has been slowed by injuries early in her collegiate career, it is not slowing her down. “Anyone who has been forced to sit out because of injury knows that it stinks,” Ekmark said. “You want to play so badly. It’s just great to be back. The games are coming faster now and time is flying by. But I am a confident person and that helps.”  

GABBY WILLIAMS

Gabby Williams attended Reed High School in Sparks Nevada where she was a three year starter, and as a sophomore averaged 18 ppg along with 10 RPG and 7 steals. She helped lead Reed to the Class 4A state title. She had 15 points, 14 rebounds and six assists in a semifinal win over Foothill, then followed that up with 24 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists in the championship game win over Reno. She was also named the Las Vegas Review-Journal Class 4A Player of the Year. In her junior year she was averaging 30 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists, when she suffered a completely torn anterior cruciate ligament and partially torn meniscus in her right knee. She had season ending surgery and was cleared to resume basketball activities some 8 months later. She injured the same knee twice more and was reassured by her surgeon, Dr. Michael Joyce that she could perform up to collegiate standards after her most recent surgery. And to complicate matters more, Williams had inconsistent practice habits with UConn and was benched in the Nov. 17 game at Stanford which the Huskies lost in overtime.

When they returned from the West Coast, Williams began to practice with more energy and as a result her role on the team increased. “I do need to be more aggressive and I have been too passive. I feel like I am not producing the way I should be and maybe because I am looking at the juniors and seniors doing stuff”, says Williams. She followed that up by scoring in double figures three times in the next four games. She has averaged 10 points, 4.8 rebounds and 1.3 assist in those four outings. “Gabby, she is just getting better all the time”, says UConn coach Geno Auriemma. “She makes tough shots in the lane, she is active.”

So there you have it, the new freshman trio for the UConn Huskies. The one word that comes from all of these freshmen is “aggressive”. And like the freshman before them they will build on that aggressive play to become better players. Some words of wisdom from now Junior forward Brianna Stewart, “When I’m on the court with them (Kia, Courtney, & Gabby) I no longer think of them as freshman. I think of them as just another UConn basketball player. The fact that they’ve been assertive and aggressive (there’s that word again) on the court is going to help. One thing to remember also, Stewy was a freshman once too!

Next week: The freshman UConn Men.

UConn –Duke A Rivalry?

 This week our Art Benedict gives his insight into the UConn vs. Duke rivalry. Art knows his UCONN Basketball!!!!

Article by Art Benedict   
 

So it’s been a little while now since the 2014-2015 UConn men’s basketball team lost 66-56 to the Number 2 team in the country, the Duke Blue Devils. Water has gone under the bridge. Duke is still Number 2 in the country and the Huskies have found a little bit of that swagger that won them the National Championship last season. Since that loss UConn has gone on to defeat Columbia 80-65 behind a career high 21 points from Rodney Purvis and 20 points from Ryan Boatright,  and a rather easy win over in-state rival Central Connecticut (who are also aptly named the Blue Devils) 81-48 in which 5 Huskies were in double figures including Kentan Facey who had his first career double-double. So things have turned around a bit for UConn since losing to the Dukies, but when die hard UConn fans thing of Duke-UConn they don’t associate it with the recent loss. No, No, No!  If you bleed Husky Blue you have to go all the way back to 1990  in the Elite Eight. Still today the name “Christian Laettner” brings the hair on the back of my neck to attention. The Huskies looked like they were on their way to defeating the heavily favored Blue Devils and move on to the Final Four. They were 31-5 overall that season, and  12-4 in the Big East. They were the Big East regular season co-champs, and were Big East Tournament Champions over the likes of Georgetown, Villanova and Syracuse. But Laettner put up a last second shot that snuffed out the hopes and dreams of a Husky nation and a sudden end to a “Dream Season. On that roster that year for the Huskies were some very notable names. Chris Smith, Nadav Henefeld, Tate George, John Gwynn, Scott Burell, Lyman Depriest, and Steve and Tim Pikiell. Oh yes, and many people forget a young man who played basketball at Torrington High School and later went on to play in the NBA, Murray Williams, (yes, brother of Jordan) was on that highly touted team. Heck! Coach Calhoun hadn’t fallen off of his bike once before 1990.  And for Duke, outside of CL, there was Alaa Abdelnaby, Robert Brickley, Clay Buckley, Joe Cook, Bobby Hurley and Bill McCaffrey. But for Husky fans, it was all about Christian Laettner. But outside of that game, the Blue Devils would defeat the Huskies the following season 81-67 in the Sweet 16. But UConn turned it around on March 29, 1999 when it defeated Duke 77-74 at Tropicana Field to win the first of its four national titles.   And in 2004  they beat Duke 79-78 in the Final Four and went on to win the National Championship with a victory over Georgia Tech.

So does a rivalry exist based on just one player or a few wins and losses between two teams? Sometimes one school considers another being a rivalry. For instance, Providence fans look at UConn as a hated rival. UConn fans tend not to give the Friars much thought.  Kevin Freeman, who is now a UConn director of basketball administration was on that 1999 National Championship team and says, “All we had to do is win the one. So, I don’t know about the next 10 times. I don’t think you play anybody in college 10 times in four years. I’ll take the one.” “I think it’s a great rivalry, in the sense that every time we play it’s been a great game. The early 90’s games, the game we beat them and also in the 2000’s—it’s going to be a great game, it’s going to be fun for the fans, and it’s fun for us overall.”

And if you ask current head basketball coach Kevin Ollie? “ We have more historic rivalries with Syracuse and Georgetown, of course. But whenever UConn and Duke goes, you go back and relive the past, the Christian Laettner incident, all the different things that happened during our past when those two teams got together. A lot of memorable things in NCAA basketball history that came between these two teams when they got on the court.”

Duke however may see things a bit differently when it comes to UConn being a rival. They are in the tough ACC where they have their own rivalry’s in North Carolina and NC State.

One former Duke alumni when asked about Duke-UConn stated, “ We don’t really use that term “rival”. They’re (UConn) a team we definitely respect and have had outstanding teams, won national championships, and defeated us before. It’s a program you have a high level of respect for, and you have to bring your “A” game against.”

So there you have it. Rivalry or not, Duke currently boasts a 6-4 all-time advantage in games played against UConn, but Husky fans can rest on the fact that some of its greatest wins (and perhaps its toughest loss, thank you very much Christian Laettner) came at the hands of the Duke Blue Devils. And none greater that that 1999 championship game.

Next week: UConn women- New Kids on the Block.

Top Prosects for the New York Yankees

Our own Chris Saunders talks about the top prospects for the local major league baseball teams. This week he talks about the top prospects for the New York Yankees, he is definitely the person to go to!!!!


Article by Chris Saunders

Baseball has always been a young man’s game, and will baseball players coming up from the minors at a younger age each year there is more of a demand on prospect. For the next couple of week’s I will be doing the top 5 prospects who in my opinion are the best for the local Major League clubs. They will include (New York Yankees), (Boston Red Sox), and (New York Mets). If there is a team that you want to hear about regarding their prospects or would like me to do a prospect list just leave a comment and I will gladly do so! First up the New York Yankees Batter up!

Top 5 Prospects

1.      RHP Luis Severino- Severino began the 2013 as an unknown prospect for the Yankees upon his U.S debut at the age of 20, but by season’s end he became a top right-handed prospect for New York having many people excited for what the future holds for Severino. Though Serverino isn’t especially big being just 6’0 and looking like a string bean; he does poses an overpowering fastball that has been clocked at 98 MPH. His fastball that usually sits aorund 94-95 mph with some sink at the lower end of his velocity coincides with a harder biting slider/changeup mix that has been graded at solid offering or better. Severino breezed through low A/High A, making it to Double AA to finish the season. If Severino can continue to improve on his overall command of his three quality pitches as well as keep maturing being in the States for a second full season the sky is the limit for this young right hander.

2.      OF Aaron Judge- When you see Judge the first thing that comes to mind of many players around baseball is Giancarlo Stanton. Yankee fans would love to have the next Stanton in their lineup when it’s all said and done. Judge;22, who is a massive 6-7 230 pound specimen had a scholarship offers to play Tight end in college. Drafted in the 1^st round 32 overall in 2013 out of high school, Judge has been compared to Hall of Famer Dave Winfield, who played in eight straight All-Star Games for the Yankees, and Giancarlo Stanton. Judge has light tower power, grading on an 80 of 20-80 scale. 20 being well below average/80 being well above average. With his size and leverage he can crush almost any pitch around the plate when he connects. The problem as with many tall power hitters is the long swing that comes with it. Long arms to go along with a long swing can spell many strikeouts and reduce the ability for a higher average. Judge moves very well for a big man, with his solid speed and strong arm making him a nice fit in right field. He has yet to make his debut because he arrived in pro ball with a quad injury, yet Judge could move quickly if he makes consistent contact.

3.      LHP Jacob Lindgren-  Lindgren helped pitch Mississippi State to the College World Series as a starter in 2013, then dominated after a shift to the bullpen this spring. He went 6-1 with a 0.81 ERA and three saves as opponents hit just .124 with one extra-base hit and 100 strikeouts in 185 at-bats. The Yankees took Lindgren with their top pick (second round) in June and signed him for $1,018,700. Lindgren's stuff took a leap forward when he worked in shorter stints. His fastball zoomed from 87-91 mph last year to 91-95, and his slider became a true wipeout pitch at 82-84 mph, with late bite. When batters manage to make contact against Lindgren, they struggle to put the ball in the air. Though Lindgren has a decent third pitch in his sinking changeup, New York has no plans to try him in the rotation. He could become the first player from the 2014 Draft to reach the big leagues. Lindgren's ability to throw consistent strikes will determine how much time he needs in the Minors.

4.      LHP Ian Clarkin- Clarkin established himself as a potential first-rounder with a strong summer in 2012, capped by winning the gold-medal game for Team USA at the 18-and-under World Championships. When he followed up with a strong high school senior season, the Yankees didn't think they'd get a shot to draft him, but they were pleasantly surprised when Clarkin was available as their third of three first-rounders in 2013. Signed for $1,650,100 as the 33rd overall pick, Clarkin is a left-hander with three quality pitches at his disposal and more polish than a typical prepster. His 90-94 mph fastball is his best pitch, but his hard 12-to-6 curveball isn't far behind. Clarkin's changeup features good fade and deception. Clarkin could move quickly through the Minors, and he has the upside of a No. 2 or 3 starter.

5.      Catcher Gary Sanchez- Sanchez has above-average raw power, and he knows how to use it, hitting at least 13 home runs in each of his years in full-season ball. Sanchez has a good approach at the plate and the potential to be a solid all-around hitter. Sanchez's defense remains a question mark, though he has gotten better behind the plate. He still needs to work on his receiving and blocking balls. Sanchez's strong throwing arm remains an asset behind the plate. His bat would make him a valuable Major Leaguer, even if he had to change positions, but he has star potential as a catcher. Many have compared him to former Yankees top prospect Jesus Montero for Michael Pineda back in the offseason of 2012. Yankees are hopeful that Sanchez has a better career path than Montero has had thus far with the mariners.  

Seventeen Years since Their Departure, The Hartford Whaler’s Legacy Lives On.

Happy New Year everybody!!!! John Basso this week talks about the former professional hockey team here in Connecticut, the Hartford Whalers. He describes the Whalers leaving Connecticut, and where some of the players and coaches went after the team left the state, enjoy!!!!


Article by John Basso

Seventeen years ago the beloved Hartford Whalers packed their bags to start a new chapter in Raleigh North Carolina under the name “Hurricanes.”  But the iconic green and blue that filled the Hartford Civic Center for eighteen years is still as visible as ever.

From 1979 to 1997, the Whalers, who played in an area inside a small shopping mall in downtown Hartford averaged over thirteen-thousand fans a night.  That is more than four existing NHL teams including the Florida Panthers who sell a dismal 8,900 tickets per game.  The Connecticut natives still walk around with Whaler hats, shirts and jackets.  Connecticut even has a Whalers lottery scratch ticket so who’s to say the Whalers can’t be supported in Hartford?

Jean-Sébastien Giguère was the last active player to have put on a Hartford Whalers uniform.  With his recent retirement from The Colorado Avalanche, there are no more former Whalers playing in the NHL.  Chris Pronger who’s still on the Philadelphia Flyer’s active roster is facing career-ending injuries and Craig Adams who was one of Hartford’s final draft picks is on the Pittsburgh Penguin’s roster, but never suited up for them. 

The Hartford Whalers also produced some Hall of Famers that made their way through Hartford.  Ron Francis the franchise’s all-time leader in games, goals, assists and points with 821 is in the Hall of Fame.  Both Gordie Howe and his son Mark are in as well as Brendan Shanahan.  Chris Pronger may see a bid for the Hall of Fame in a few years.

THE WHALERS – WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Chuck Kaiton the Whaler’s radio play-by announcer stayed with the franchise and is still calling Carolina Hurricane games.

Rick Peckham former play-by-play television announcer for the Whalers is now doing the same for the Tampa Bay Lightning organization for the Florida based Sun Sports Network.

Paul Maurice at the age of 28, became the youngest coach in National Hockey League history with the Hartford Whalers.  He also coached The Carolina Hurricanes twice, and the Toronto Maple Leafs.  He is now the head coach for the Winnipeg Jets and in 2010 he became the youngest coach to reach 1,000 games won.

Ron Francis replaced former Whaler’s General Manager Jim Rutherford in Carolina but was quickly fired after trading a first round pick, Jeff Skinner, and Justin Faulk to the Oilers for 2020 and 2021 3rd round draft picks.

Brendan Shanahan is currently the President and alternate governor for the Toronto Maple Leafs, after serving as the director of player safety for the NHL.

Marc Bergevin is about to enter his third season as Montreal Canadiens General Manager.

Don Maloney is in his eighth year and the Phoenix Coyote’s General Manger.

Dave Tippett who was a Whaler’s Alternate Captain is considered one of the best coaches in the NHL after 11 seasons split between the Dallas Stars and Coyotes.

Ulf Samuelsson is a New York Rangers assistant coach under Alain Vigneault and was a head-coaching candidate for a few vacancies this off-season.

Joel Quenneville is the former head coach for the Colorado Avalanche and St. Louis Blues and is now the head coach for the Chicago Blackhawks.

Kevin Dineen who was the last Whaler’s Captain before moving to Carolina is the former Florida Panther’s Head Coach and is now working under Quenneville as an assistant coach in Chicago.