Mayweather vs. Mosley.. Who are you picking?

--Top Celebrities, Athletes, Boxers and Trainers Weigh In--

LAS VEGAS, NV (April 30)...Some of the most recognized boxing fans in the world are weighing in on the match-up between undefeated six-time world champion Floyd "Money" Mayweather and WBA Welterweight Super Champion Sugar Shane Mosley, who are set to meet in Mayweather vs. Mosley: Who R U Picking? on Saturday, May 1 at MGM Grand in Las Vegas in a mega-bout which will be produced and distributed live on HBO Pay-Per-View® beginning at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.

From real estate moguls to NFL Pro-Bowlers, NBA All-Stars to Hall of Fame fighters and trainers, we have their opinions on who they believe will emerge victorious this Saturday. Below please find the predictions of these prominent personalities as they lend their thoughts on this historic match-up. 


CELEBRITIES

"I'm picking Mayweather. Although I think they are both champions and I'm really looking forward to the fight!"
- Donald Trump, Chairman and CEO of The Trump Organization, host of NBC reality-series The Apprentice


"Some people fight with their fists, some people fight with their mouths...May 1st FIST meets Mouth. Sugar Shane by knockout!"
- George Lopez, comedian and host of Lopez Tonight!

"I am a fan of BOTH of these amazing fighters, but in boxing, there can only be ONE TRUE winner. So if I had to bet the farm on it..."Pretty Boy" Floyd Mayweather is going to win. Sorry Sugar, but not this time."
- Tichina Arnold, actress, "Everybody Hates Chris"


BOXERS

"I give the edge to Mayweather. How can I not based on his unblemished record? Mayweather is the man to beat and if there were any fighters that I thought had a chance to beat Floyd Mayweather, one would be Shane Mosley. We will find out on May 1st. One thing I personally know is that Shane has to become "Sugar" again to become victorious. Intriguing fight."
- Sugar Ray Leonard, Seven-Time World Champion

"This fight will be a real welterweight contest. Mosley can win if he is capable of closing Floyd's [Mayweather] exits and using his speed along with his power."
- Juan Manuel "Dinamita" Marquez, WBA, WBO and The Ring Magazine Lightweight World Champion

 "I'm for Shane Mosley...He must do the right preparation. If he does, then he has a very good chance against Mayweather."
- Manny "Pac-Man" Pacquiao, WBO Welterweight World Champion


TRAINERS

"Shane's my friend and I hope he wins, but he has trouble with speed and movement and likes guys to come to him so it's going to be difficult."
- Freddie Roach, Trainer of Manny Pacquiao and Amir Khan

"This is a very interesting fight. Mayweather will have his toughest fight yet against Mosley, who came up the ranks and fought every tough Mexican. When Mayweather covers up and brings his right hand up, Mosley is going to hit him with left hooks to the liver. He'll go under the elbow. This is a tough, tough fight, and a great fight. I'm looking forward to it. Mayweather is going to really have to hustle because Mosley is at the top of this game. Mayweather has to fight his best fight ever, because Mosley's stronger, more mature than anyone Mayweather has ever faced. While Mayweather is truly a one of a kind fighter, I would have to give the edge to Mosley by decision."
- Angelo Dundee, Hall of Fame Trainer of Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard and George Foreman


ATHLETES

"Magic votes for Floyd all the way!"
- Magic Johnson, Five-Time NBA Champion, Three-Time NBA MVP, Twelve-Time NBA All-Star, Three-Time NBA Finals MVP

 "Mayweather in a decision. He [Mayweather] is a smaller guy who can dance. Mosley can't let him hit him."
- Charles Barkley, 11-Time NBA All-Star and TNT/NBA TV basketball analyst

 "Mayweather in a unanimous decision. Mayweather will knock down Shane once but Mosley will be his toughest fight to date. Mayweather is the best boxer this world has seen in 20 years so he'll win."
- Chris Webber, Five-Time NBA All-Star and TNT/NBA TV basketball analyst

"Mayweather KO in the 9th. He is in his prime and blazing it right now. I see his strength, speed and endurance being just too much for Mosley. Mayweather is a beast!" 
- Caron Butler, Two-Time NBA All-Star Forward, Dallas Mavericks

"Shane has a great chance. I will predict a victory. He has a great chin, and he's the type of fighter who can give Floyd problems, with the pressure and the discipline, and he still has the quickness. So it's going to be a great fight."
- LaDainian Tomlinson, Five-Time NFL Pro Bowler, 2006 NFL MVP, Running Back, New York Jets

"I need to hold one of them belts and walk in the ring with Money May on May 1st. No way I am missing this one."
- Chad Ochocinco, Six-Time NFL Pro Bowler, Wide Receiver, Cincinnati Bengals

"I want Mosley to win but I really have no clue. Floyd is a badass and will be tough to beat."
- Jared Allen, Three-Time NFL Pro Bowler, Defensive End, Minnesota Vikings

"Money Mayweather is going to get Mosley in the 10th round by TKO. Mayweather's the best fighter around right now, at least until someone can prove otherwise by beating him."
- Shawne Merriman, Three-Time NFL Pro Bowler, 2005 AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Linebacker, San Diego Chargers

"I think that Mayweather is going to win in eight rounds. Mayweather is 40-0 for a reason.  He's got youth behind him and he's just too quick for Mosley."
- Patrick Willis, Two-Time NFL Pro-Bowler, 2007 AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Linebacker, San Francisco 49ers

"I think Mayweather's going to win versus Mosley. Floyd is way more athletic and technically sound than anyone else in boxing right now."
- Kellen Winslow II, NFL Pro-Bowler, Tight End, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

"I'm calling a 7th round knockout and Mayweather wins"
- Shaun Phillips, Defensive End, San Diego Chargers

"Mayweather is the master of not getting hit. His quickness and defense will be too much for Shane to match."
- B.J. Upton, Center Fielder, Tampa Bay Rays

"Shane Mosley will win, because Orlando Hudson picked Mayweather and he also picked Roy Jones in the last fight and was way off!"
- Justin Morneau, Three-Time MLB All-Star, First Baseman, Minnesota Twins

"Mayweather will take it. He's undefeated so he must be doing something right."
- Justin Verlander, Two-Time MLB All-Star, Pitcher, Detroit Tigers

DODGERS DREAM FOUNDATION BOWLING EXTRAVAGANZA HOSTED BY JAMES LONEY TO BE HELD THIS MONDAY, MAY 3

WHAT:   Dodger first baseman James Loney will host the Sixth Annual State Farm Dodgers Dream Foundation Bowling Extravaganza. All proceeds will benefit the Dodgers Dream Foundation, which is committed to providing educational, athletic and recreational opportunities for the youth of the Greater Los Angeles community. This year marks the third consecutive season in which Loney has hosted the event.

Attendees can bid on more than 40 unique items in the silent auction including: a LA Kings team signed jersey, Blake Griffin signed LA Clippers Jersey, and autographed game-used baseball bats from Andre Ethier, Matt Kemp and Russell Martin. A special “Green Monster” live auction featuring two tickets on the Green Monster at Fenway Park to the Sunday, June 20 Dodgers vs. Red Sox game, airfare for two on JetBlue Airways and a two-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton, Boston will also be held.

Lanes are still available for purchase by calling (323) 224-1413.

                       
WHO:             Dodgers James Loney, Russell Martin, Matt Kemp, Manny Ramirez, Clayton Kershaw, Blake DeWitt, Reed Johnson, Ramon Troncoso, A.J. Ellis, Charlie Haeger, George Sherrill, Ken Howell, Mariano Duncan and Rick Honeycutt

Celebrity bowlers include: James Denton, Alyssa Milano, Tom Arnold, David Arquette, Paul Wall, Jonathan Silverman, Jennifer Finnigan, Greg Grunberg, James Kyson Lee, Scott Porter, Peter Jacobson, Omar Miller, Rex Lin, Hoobastank, Doug Savant, Justin Hartley and Lindsay Hartley



WHERE:   Lucky Strike Lanes L.A. LIVE
                   800 W. Olympic Blvd.


WHEN:  Monday, May 3, 2010

               6:00 p.m. Registration

               7:00 p.m. Bowling & Dinner

               10:00 p.m. Awards

               10:30 p.m. Event Concludes



MISC:   Loney was the Dodgers’ nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award in 2008 for his commitment to the Los Angeles community. That year, the first baseman launched his community initiative “Loney’s Lounge” and visited children at UCLA’s Mattel Children’s Hospital and White Memorial Hospital. Loney continued his community work last season with “Loney’s Lounge” where he hosted children from RBI Los Angeles.

The Dodgers and the Dodgers Dream Foundation (DDF) assisted more than 5,000 charitable organizations in 2009. More than 100,000 tickets were donated, yet another Dodgers Dreamfield was built, and former and current players made more than 450 appearances. More information on the Dodgers Dream Foundation and the club’s charitable endeavors can be found at dodgers.com/community.


Visit the Dodgers on the Internet at www.dodgers.com.

For media information, visit www.dodgerspressbox.com.

ANGELS CLAIM INF KEVIN FRANDSEN OFF OUTRIGHT WAIVERS

ANAHEIM, CA – The Angels Thursday claimed second baseman Kevin Frandsen off  outright waivers from the Boston Red Sox and have optioned him to their triple-A affiliate in Salt Lake.  Today’s announcement was made by General Manager Tony Reagins. 

Frandsen, 27, spent parts of four seasons as a utility player with the San Francisco Giants, playing 174 games in the Majors.  He has played in 91 games at second base, 32 at shortstop, 10 in left field, nine at third base and three in right field.  He owns a career average of .240 (98-for-408) with seven home runs and 39 RBIs.

Drafted in the 12th round out of San Jose State in 2004, the San Jose native made his Major League debut with the Giants in 2006.  He batted .367 for the Giants in his final 32 games of the 2007 season, but appeared in only one game of the 2008 season after rupturing his left Achilles tendon in Spring Training.  Frandsen appeared in 23 games in 2009, batting .140 (7/50).

Traded to the Red Sox on March 26, 2010, Frandsen hit .258 (16-for-62) with three doubles, two home runs, four RBI, nine runs and five walks in 17 games with Triple-A Pawtucket in 2010.
                                

--ANGELSBASEBALL.COM--

KINGS DEFENSEMEN MATT GREENE AND JACK JOHNSON TO REPRESENT U.S. AT UPCOMING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

--KINGS HEAD EQUIPMENT MANAGER DARREN GRANGER TO REPRESENT TEAM CANADA--

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles Kings defenseman/assistant captain Matt Greene and defenseman Jack Johnson will represent the United States at the 2010 IIHF World Championship tournament, the Kings today announced in conjunction with USA Hockey.  The World Championship tournament is scheduled for May 7-23 in Germany.

Greene, 26, most recently represented the United States during the 2008 World Championship.  He has also represented Team USA during the 2007 World Championship and the 2003 World Junior Championship, and he also skated with Team USA at the 2002 U.S. Junior Select Team at the Viking Cup, the 2001 World U18 Championship, the Under-18 U.S. National Team in its Development Program in 2000-01 and at the 2000 Five Nations Tournament (silver medal).

A 6-3, 237-pound native of Grand Ledge, Michigan, Greene this past season had nine points (2-7=9) and 83 penalty minutes in 75 regular season games with the Kings, while in six postseason games Greene had one point (an assist) and zero penalty minutes.  In 308 career regular season NHL games with the Kings and the Edmonton Oilers, Greene has 36 points (5-31=36) and 399 penalty minutes. 

Johnson, 23, most recently represented the United States during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver where he helped his club earn a silver medal.  He has also represented Team USA during the 2009 World Championship, the 2007 World Championship, the 2007 World Junior Championship (bronze medal), the 2006 World Junior Championship, the 2005 World U18 Championship (gold medal), the 2005 Five Nations Tournament (U.S. Under-18 Team – gold medal), the 2004 Compuware Four Nations Cup (U.S. Under-18 Team) and the 2004 World U18 Championship (silver medal), and he also skated with Team USA at the 2004 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

A 6-0, 218-pound native of Indianapolis, Johnson this past season had 36 points (8-28=36) and 48 penalty minutes in 80 regular season games with the Kings, while in six postseason games Johnson had seven points (all assists) and six penalty minutes.  In 200 career regular season NHL games, all with the Kings, Johnson has 58 points (17-41=58) and 188 penalty minutes. 

Kings Head Equipment Manager Darren Granger will also be apart of Team Canada’s training staff during the World Championship.  Granger, a native of Brandon, Manitoba, also worked for Team Canada at the 2008 (silver medal), 2006 and 1999 World Championships, the 1996 World Cup and the 1992 World Junior Championship.

-- LAKINGS.COM --

LAKERS SECOND ROUND PLAYOFF TICKETS TO GO ON SALE THURSDAY

EL SEGUNDO - Individual game tickets for Lakers 2010 Second Round playoff home games will go on sale this Thursday, April 29 beginning at 10:00 am.
 
Tickets will be sold at Ticketmaster outlets, ticketmaster.com and by telephone at 1-800-4-NBA-TIX.  There will be a limit of four tickets per person, per game.  Tickets will not be sold at the STAPLES Center box office.




 

DODGERS TO HOST USC AND UCLA NIGHTS THIS THURSDAY AND FRIDAY

--Back-to-back theme nights are based on rivalry between local universities--


LOS ANGELES – The Dodgers will host USC Night on Thursday, April 29 presented by USC University Hospital and UCLA Night on Friday, April 30 presented by State Farm Insurance. The first 20,000 fans at each game will receive Dodger hats in USC or UCLA colors, respectively, and fans can also buy tickets to sit in the My Town sections dubbed Dodgertown, USC and Dodgertown, UCLA. This will mark the second year that the Dodgers have hosted competing nights based around the cross-town rivalry.

Pregame ceremonies on Thursday will celebrate USC and Women’s Basketball Coach Michael Cooper will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. USC Athletic Director Mike Garrett and Men’s Basketball Coach Kevin O’Neill will also be in attendance.

On Friday, pregame ceremonies will be UCLA-themed and the ceremonial first pitch will be thrown by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. UCLA Athletic Director Dan Guerrero and Men’s Basketball Coach Ben Howland will join Abdul-Jabbar at the game.

Fans who sit in Dodgertown, USC and Dodgertown, UCLA will receive a free Dodgertown t-shirt featuring their school’s colors and logo. They will also enjoy all-you-can-eat pastrami sandwiches, kettle-style potato chips and kosher-style pickles as well as Dodger Dogs, nachos, popcorn and soft drinks. For more information about the My Town sections, visit www.dodgers.com/mytown.

Notable Trojans who have played for the Dodgers include Ron Fairly, Rod Dedeaux, Len Gabrielson, Ray Lamb and Bobby Mitchell. Garrett, a former Heisman Trophy winner, was drafted by the Dodgers but chose to play professional football instead. Notable Bruins include Eric Karros, Todd Zeile, Jackie Robinson, Tim Leary, Glenn Mickens, Dave Roberts, Ron Roenicke and Matt Young.

Tickets to USC Night and UCLA Night can be purchased by calling 866 DODGERS or logging on to www.dodgers.com or www.losdodgers.com.

If Kobe's Not Panicking, Should You Be?

I realized long ago that it's human nature for fans to panic when their team or favorite star player isn't playing well.  It's not just something they seemingly can't help.  It's actually something they need.  Fans are so emotionally vested in their teams that they need this feeling of panic to validate their emotions.

We are all witnessing another perfect example of that dynamic following the first four games of the Lakers' first-round playoff series with the Thunder.  With each team having won games on its home court, LA fans -- and most of the media -- are for some reason thinking the Lakers have their backs against the proverbial wall.  Game 5 is a do-or-die situation.  It's a must-win game.
 
While you can make strong arguments about the value of a win in Game 5, it's a bit misleading to say the Lakers absolutely, positively have to win this game.  

foxsportswest.com:  If Kobe's Not Panicking, Should You Be?

Kendry Morales Named AL Player Of The Week

KENDRY MORALES OF THE LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM NAMED THE
BANK OF AMERICA PRESENTS THE AMERICAN LEAGUE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim first baseman Kendry Morales has been named Bank of America Presents the American League Player of the Week for the period ending April 25th. Bank of America, the Official Bank of Major League Baseball, is the presenting sponsor of the American League and National League Player of the Week Awards, which reflect Bank of America’s long-standing tradition of promoting and recognizing higher standards of accomplishment.

In seven games last week, Kendry hit a Major League-best .542 (13-24) with seven runs scored, 22 total bases, three home runs and an A.L.-best 10 RBI. Morales also posted a .917 slugging percentage and a .593 on-base percentage. On April 21st against the Detroit Tigers, the Cuban native took a first inning pitch deep for a two-run homer, marking his 50th career home run and making him the fourth fastest in club history to reach that milestone. In the first contest of a three-game series against the New York Yankees on Friday, the switch-hitting slugger delivered a two-run, go-ahead shot from the left side of the plate in the bottom of the eighth inning, helping the Angels to a 6-4 win. On Sunday, the 26-year-old took another ball deep for a three-run shot in the seventh inning to solidify an 8-4 victory over the Yankees. Morales currently leads the Angels with a .329 batting average, six home runs and 16 RBI, in addition to a .372 on-base percentage and .469 slugging percentage. This marks Kendry’s second career weekly award (previous: 8/3/09).

Other noteworthy performances included Chicago White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko, who tied for the Major League lead with four home runs and led the A.L. with a 1.150 slugging percentage. Also considered were two young left-handed starters: Tampa Bay Rays third-year man David Price, who posted a 1.93 ERA and notched his first career complete-game shutout, and Chicago White Sox hurler John Danks, who posted a perfect 2-0 record and 14 strikeouts. Another notable performance was turned in by Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera, who led the Majors with six doubles while also collecting eight RBI.

The Bank of America Presents the American League Player of the Week, Kendry Morales, is awarded a watch courtesy of Game Time, the leader in licensed sports watches, available at MLB.com.

The College Experiment: Oregon Cheerleaders

Ever wonder why the University of Oregon cheerleaders always rank among the hottest in collegiate sports?  Foxsports.com's Bob Oschack wondered the same thing.

Pitching Comes Around and So Does Angels’ Record

What a difference some good pitching can make.
 
When the Angels started the season 2-6, most fans started to get a little restless and were wondering if the Angels knew that spring training had ended the week prior and these games actually counted.
 
The poor play had infected just about every aspect of the team. Starters were giving up too many early runs and not getting deep into games.  Relievers were bringing gasoline cans to the mound instead of water hoses. Hitters couldn't get enough key hits in timely situations.  And the defense and base running -- two staples of the Scioscia era -- were equally lackluster.
 
One person who didn't jump on the panic bandwagon, of course, was manager Mike Scioscia.  He knew the talent he had on his ballclub and had complete confidence that things would turn around sooner rather than later, but he wasn't about to just sit by idly and wait for the Angels to flip the switch and start playing better.  

foxsportswest.com: Pitching Comes Around and So Does Angels’ Record 

CHICK HEARN STATUE UNVEILED AT STAPLES CENTER TO HONOR LEGENDARY LAKERS BROADCASTER

--Watch Ceremony Live on FS West--

Fans Are Invited To Join Marge Hearn, Legendary Lakers Players, Lakers and STAPLES Center Executives & Other VIP’s


WHAT:   The unveiling of a bronze statue of legendary Los Angeles Lakers play-by-play announcer Chick Hearn in Star Plaza at STAPLES Center.

As a tribute to renowned Lakers broadcaster of 42 years (1961-2002), the Los Angeles Lakers and STAPLES Center organizations commissioned the creation of a 5,000 lb., nearly 16’ bronze and steal sculpture of the NBA and American Sportscaster Hall Of Fame member, who broadcast a record 3,338 consecutive Lakers games from November 21, 1965 - December 16, 2001.

The statue, created by renowned sculptor/artist Omri Amrany, will join other iconic sculptures of celebrated sports superstars Wayne Gretzky, Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Oscar De La Hoya.  Johnson’s statue (dedicated Feb. 11, 2004) was also created by Amrany.

The ceremony, which is open free to the public, will be highlighted by speeches from Marge Hearn and other individuals who have played prominent roles in Chick’s career and will conclude with a “spectacular” unveiling of the statue.

Beginning Wednesday, fans will have the opportunity to take photos with the sculpture by sitting in the empty chair at the announcer’s table next to Chick.



WHEN:                  Tuesday, April 20,  2010

                                4:30 – Ceremony Begins

                                5:05 PM (approximately) – unveiling



WHERE:                The ceremony will take place at the permanent location of the statue:

Star Plaza at STAPLES Center (just west of Figueroa Street & Chick Hearn Court intersection)

LOTT TROPHY NAMES 2010 WATCH LIST

Newport Beach, Ca. – The Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation has announced the 2010 Watch List for the seventh annual Lott Trophy. 

One spends summers on medical missions in Africa; one was diagnosed with a brain tumor in high school; another is coming back from cancer.

One led the country in sacks last season, another in interceptions.

They are just five of the 42 selected to the 2010 Lott Trophy Watch List, a cross-section of the finest student-athletes on the college football landscape.

Sam Acho of Texas (missions), Robert Quinn of North Carolina (high school tumor) and Mark Herzlich (cancer survivor) of Boston College have unique stories off the field, but like the other nominees they are outstanding performers on it, making them ideal candidates for the seventh annual Lott Trophy.

Von Miller (sack leader) of Texas A&M and Rahim Moore (interception leader) of UCLA are back, looking to be leaders once again.

The 2010 Lott Trophy Watch List was announced at a luncheon in Newport Beach by Ronnie Lott. 

As a group, the 42 intercepted 81 passes last season and sacked opposing quarterbacks 185 times.

Thirty-six different schools are represented on the annual Lott Watch List with six schools -- UCLA, North Carolina, Ohio State, Oregon, LSU and Virginia Tech -- each having two candidates.

“This is a superb list of young men,” said Ronnie Lott, announcing the Watch List at a luncheon in Newport Beach.  “We at the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation are always pleased to see the accomplishments of such outstanding student-athletes, all of whom are worthy of consideration for the Lott Trophy.”

Sponsored by The Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation in Newport Beach, Ca., the award is given to a player who exhibit’s the same characteristics Lott embodied during his distinguished career: Integrity, Maturity, Performance, Academics, Community and Tenacity. 

Voters for the award include selected members of the national media, previous finalists, members of the Pacific Club IMPACT Foundation Board of Directors and distinguished alumni of various schools around the nation.

The winner, who will be announced at the annual black-tie gala in December, receives $25,000 for his school’s general scholarship fund.  Three runner-ups each receive $5,000. 

        The previous winners of the Lott Trophy:

        2004 - David Pollack, Georgia

        2005 - DeMeco Ryans, Alabama

        2006 - Dante Hughes, Cal

        2007 - Glenn Dorsey, LSU

        2008 - James Laurinaitis, Ohio State

        2009 - Jerry Hughes, TCU

In six years, the IMPACT Foundation has now donated more than $750,000 to various charities. 


View the entire 2010 Lott Trophy Watch List at www.thelotttrophy.com.

LAKERS TO HOLD YOUTH BASKETBALL CAMP FOR BOYS AND GIRLS IN LOS ANGELES

EL SEGUNDO – The Los Angeles Lakers will conduct “Camp Lakers”, presented by dazadi.com, a youth basketball day camp for boys and girls ages 9-18, this July in two sessions, it was announced by the team.  The camps will be held at the Roybal Learning Center in Los Angeles. Session one will be held June 28-July 1; session two will be held July 5-8.

As in the past, both current and former Lakers players and coaches will make guest appearances to help with on-court instruction.  Previous players/coaches who have made appearances include: Kobe Bryant, Jordan Farmar, Luke Walton, Sasha Vujacic, Michael Cooper, Brian Shaw, Tex Winter, Frank Hamblen, Bill Bertka, Mitch Kupchak, Jim Cleamons and Phil Jackson.

The cost will be $325, per session.  Net proceeds from the camps are used by the Lakers for charitable purposes.

Approximately 7,000 campers have attended Camp Lakers over the past ten years, and the camps have sold out every year.  It is anticipated that this year’s camps will sell out by late May.  For more information, please call the camp hotline at (310) 426-6055, email camps2010@la-lakers.com or visit the Lakers website at www.lakers.com. 

Dwight Howard Launches Dwight Howard Fund; Challenges Fans to Give Back

--Fund to initially target humanitarian efforts on Haitian youths affected by the earthquake--

ORLANDO, FL., April 14, 2010 – Dwight Howard, 2009 NBA Defensive Player of the Year and 4-time winner of the Rich and Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award, is proud to launch his Dwight Howard Fund with the mission to help at-risk youths around the world.

The “Dwight Howard Fund” (DHF) was kicked off by the NBA player at his teammate, Adonal Foyle’s, Gala Dinner & Caribbean Fête for the Kerosene Lamp Foundation (KLF) in Orlando, Florida. Howard has tapped KLF to manage the fund on his behalf. Foyle, a recent inductee into the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame, founded KLF to empower youth to grow into healthy and well-educated adults.

“Adonal has been giving back for many years, so it felt great to partner with him on my new fund and benefit from his experience,” said Howard. “I’m excited to make a difference for kids in Haiti, and I’ll be counting on my fans to help me make some great things happen.”

Howard has made an initial personal investment of $100,000 to directly help at-risk Haitian children affected most by January’s devastating earthquake in Haiti.

“I was personally moved to do something international after spending time in South Africa last summer and finding out the impact I can make on kids from a different culture and place,” said Dwight Howard. “Haiti seemed like the perfect place to start and a place that really needs the help. They were a poor country and then they had the devastating earthquake, so they need a lot of help. There have been a lot of relief efforts in Haiti already but there’s still a lot of work to do there, especially with the children.”

DHF will commence with an online fundraising campaign to help match Howard’s personal contribution for Haiti. For a minimum donation of $2.99, Howard’s fans will have the opportunity to win a once in a lifetime experience of a $500 Adidas shopping spree with Dwight Howard himself. Winners will be chosen based on those who recruit the most other donors in addition to the selection of a random winner. Visit www.dwighthowardfund.org or www.pinkdingo.com/dhf for details and to donate.


About Kerosene Lamp Foundation (KLF)
KLF was founded by Adonal Foyle, a native of St. Vincent & the Grenadines and professional basketball player to empower youth to grow into healthy and well-educated adults. KLF uses basketball as a bridge to the next generation, promoting education and health awareness, providing free basketball clinics and building/refurbishing basketball courts to more than 2,500 youth since its inception. KLF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Please visit www.kerosenelampfoundation.org for more information. 

Great Expectations Come With Great Pressure For Brandon Wood

Motivational speaker Earl Nightingale, who came to be known as the Dean of Personal Development, once said that "We tend to live up to our expectations."  
 
Hmm, I wonder if Mr. Nightingale was much of a sports fan.
 
It seems as though expectations are the single worst thing you can place on a young athlete, and the earlier those expectations are placed on an athlete, the more chances of that athlete falling well short of those expectations.
 
While there have been some athletes to exceed even the greatest of expectations -- Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Wayne Gretzy -- more often than not, even the most talented athletes don't quite live up to their expectations.
 
The Angels are hoping Brandon Wood will not be the latest to join that trend.


foxsportswest.com:  Great Expectations Come With Great Pressure 

LAKERS 2010 PRESEASON SCHEDULE HIGHLIGHTED BY GAMES IN LONDON AND BARCELONA

EL SEGUNDO – The Los Angeles Lakers have announced the preseason schedule for the 2010-11 season, along with ticket purchase information. The preseason line-up includes games against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Sacramento Kings, Denver Nuggets, Utah Jazz, Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers, and is highlighted by games in London and Barcelona as part of NBA Europe Live 2010.

The Lakers will kick off the 2010 preseason on October 4 when they take on the Timberwolves in London.  The Lakers will then travel to Barcelona, where they will face off against Euroleague powerhouse Regal FC Barcelona on October 7.  The Lakers will then head to Las Vegas, where they will play the Kings on October 13 at the Thomas and Mack Center. 

The Lakers will host their annual shootout at STAPLES Center on October 16 and 17.  In addition to the Lakers, teams scheduled to participate in the event are the Nuggets, Jazz and Clippers. 

The Lakers will then play the Jazz in Anaheim at the Honda Center on October 19, before wrapping up the preseason with games against the Warriors on October 21 at the San Diego Sports Arena and October 22 at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario.

Below is the complete 2010 Los Angeles Lakers preseason schedule:



DATE              OPPONENT                           LOCATION                                                   TIME

Oct. 4              Minnesota Timberwolves       London (The O2)                                            TBD
Oct. 7              Regal FC Barcelona               Barcelona (Palau Sant Jordi)                         TBD   

Oct. 13                        Sacramento Kings                  Las Vegas, NV (Thomas and Mack Center) 7:00 pm

Oct. 16                        Nuggets, Jazz or Clippers      Los Angeles, CA (STAPLES Center)             7:30 pm

Oct. 17                        Nuggets, Jazz or Clippers      Los Angeles, CA (STAPLES Center)             7:30 pm

Oct. 19                        Utah Jazz                                Anaheim, CA (Honda Center)                                   7:00 pm

Oct. 21                        Golden State Warriors                       San Diego, CA (San Diego Sports Arena)     7:00 pm

Oct. 22                        Golden State Warriors                       Ontario, CA (Citizens Business Bank Arena)            7:00 pm



Individual game tickets for the Lakers preseason games in Las Vegas, Anaheim, San Diego and Ontario will go on sale at 10:00 am on Monday, April 19.  Tickets for games in Anaheim, San Diego and Ontario will be sold at Ticketmaster outlets and ticketmaster.com, and available by phone at 1-800-4-NBA-TIX.  Tickets for the game in Las Vegas can be purchased at unlvtickets.com or by phone at 702-739-FANS.  Group seats for the game in Anaheim are available for purchase by calling 714-704-2420 or visiting www.hondacenter.com. Group seats for the game in San Diego are available by calling 619-224-4171 ext. 311 or emailing groups@sandiegoarena.com.  Tickets for the preseason games in Europe and at STAPLES Center will go on sale at a later date.

DODGERS’ HOME OPENER IS TUESDAY

--Fans arriving early will enjoy pregame entertainment featuring LeAnn Rimes, Will.i.am and Larry King--

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers start the season at home on Tuesday when they take on the Arizona Diamondbacks at 1:10 p.m. Pregame entertainment on Opening Day will include Grammy Award-winning country star LeAnn Rimes singing the National Anthem, Grammy Award-winning frontman and producer of the Black Eyed Peas Will.i.am throwing out a ceremonial first pitch and legendary journalist and Dodger season ticket holder Larry King announcing “It’s time for Dodger Baseball” at the start of the game. Tickets to Opening Day at Dodger Stadium are still available for fans that purchase a mini plan or season seats, which are available at dodgers.com/tickets or by calling 866-DODGERS.

Fans can enter the stadium parking lots as early as 10:10 a.m. on Tuesday and the stadium as early as 10:40 a.m. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, carpool and take the Dodger Stadium Express shuttle from Union Station to help alleviate parking congestion. The Dodger Stadium Express will pick up fans at the Patsaouras Bus Plaza adjacent to the east portal of Union Station every 10 minutes prior to the start of the game starting at approximately 11:00 a.m. and drop them off in the parking lot behind left/center field. Dodger tickets will be honored as fare.

Tuesday also marks the launch of several new seven-game ticketing plans that give fans the opportunity to purchase tickets to the June 25-27 series against the New York Yankees at Dodger Stadium. Starting Tuesday morning, fans will be able to purchase seven-game ticket packages, including three packages focused around the popular Bleacher Beach section, that incorporate a game against the Yankees. Packages can be purchased by calling 866-DODGERS or by logging on to dodgers.com/tickets.

Fans will notice on Opening Day that several renovations took place at Dodger Stadium over the offseason, most notably the remodeling of the Stadium Club, which now features outdoor seating, and updates to the Dugout Club.

New portable concessions areas have been added on the Reserve level to help alleviate waiting times for concessions. For information about other new food options at Dodger Stadium this season, see the news release on dodgers.com. Fans can also visit the six new Guest Relations Centers located throughout the stadium for any gameday questions or comments. The new Guest Relations Centers are located at Reserve level section 39, Reserve level section 40, between sections 112 and 114 on the Loge level, on the Field level at each baseline box club and in the left field pavilion.

New merchandising options at Dodger Stadium this season include customizable jerseys, the launch of a new signature series T-shirt for men, women and kids that will be available all season, an Opening Day merchandise line that is available for women and kids for the first time, a new Opening Day pin and 17 new signature styles for New Era fitted hats that are stadium exclusives.

Fans arriving early to the stadium on Tuesday can enjoy pregame activities including Dodger alumni Tommy Davis and Maury Wills signing autographs in Autograph Alley beyond center field and the joint armed forces presenting a giant flag on the field. United States Navy FA-18C Hornets from Strike Fighter Squadron 97 will fly over Dodger Stadium at the start of the game. The Hornets recently returned from an eight-month combat cruise in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and are based out of Lemoore Naval Air Station.

Steve Finley, the most recent Dodger center fielder to receive a Rawlings Gold Glove award, will present Matt Kemp with his award during pregame ceremonies. Eric Karros, who earned Silver Slugger honors in 1995, will present Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp with their Silver Slugger trophies on the field as well.


Visit the Dodgers on the Internet at www.dodgers.com.

If He Hits You, Leave Him!

It's been a while since I've posted any opinion pieces here.  In all honesty, between making the transition from basketball to baseball and working on my golf game, I simply haven't had the time. 

Speaking of time, I really don't have much currently, but there's something that's been bothering me lately, and I feel as if this is as good a place as any to get something of my chest.  And please forgive me if I get worked up while typing this post and use a few choice words.  OK, here goes.

Ladies, if your man has ever hit you or continues to put his hands on you, LEAVE HIS ASS RIGHT NOW!

The recent claims of actress Stacey Dash that her soon-to-be ex-husband repeatedly beat her reminded me of a conversation I had recently with a friend of mine.  I had learned that her current boyfriend had beaten her up not too long ago--so much so, that she had bruises.

The more she told me, the angrier I got; not only at the poor excuse for a man who hit her, but I was perhaps even more upset (disappointed) at her.  Why didn't she leave him immediately?  Why didn't she report it to the police?  Why does she continue to stay with him?  Why does she continue to defend him and his actions?

I just don't understand why so many women continue to put themselves in harm's way when it comes to abusive men.  And don't give me that "But he loves" shit.  That's the worst of cop-outs.  One of the most famous and accurate statements on love came during Boomerang when Halle Berry said, "Love should have brought your ass home last night." 

Can someone please tell me where it's been said that "Love makes you want to smack a bitch?"  I must have missed that movie or hip-hop video.  However, if women continue to allow men to put their hands on them and not report these punks to the police, that's basically what they are giving men permission to do.

Come on, ladies.  Snap out of it.  Don't allow yourself to be a victim of domestic violence.  You are too precious to be treated like trash, something a real man already knows!

Angels Are The Best Bargain In Baseball

 
According to the annual Team Marketing Report, the Angels dropped
tickets 17.8 percent to an average of $16.48 and thus, its Fan Cost Index fell 11. 5 percent to $124.90, the best family bargain in the Majors.

TMR's FCI survey tracks the cost of attendance for a family of four
for: two adult average price tickets, two child average price tickets, four small soft drinks, two small beers, four hot dogs, two programs, parking and two adult-size caps.

Baseball's Best Bargain

LAKERS OWNER DR. JERRY BUSS TO HOST POKER TOURNAMENT BENEFITING THE SMILE TRAIN

EL SEGUNDO  -  On Saturday, April 10, Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss will host a poker tournament at The Bicycle Casino in Bell Gardens benefiting the Smile Train, the world’s leading cleft charity. 

The charity event begins at 3p.m. with registration and a lunch buffet, with the no-limit hold’em poker tournament starting at 5 p.m.  The $275 entry fee covers a $250 donation to the Smile Train plus a $25 registration fee.

Participants will be eligible to receive over $25,000 in Lakers memorabilia and prizes, including floor seats to a Lakers game, dinner with Dr. Buss in his STAPLES Center suite, autographed jerseys and basketballs, framed photos and more.  No cash prizes will be given. 

Buss, who will be enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on August 13th, recently raised over $175,000 for the Lakers Youth Foundation at the team’s 20th Annual Celebrity Golf Invitational and Dinner at the Riviera Country Club on March 22.  For his philanthropic efforts, Buss has been honored by organizations such as the City of Hope, Urban League, NAACP and Boys and Girls Clubs of America, while funding scholarships at his alma maters, the University of Wyoming and USC.

For information on how to register for the poker tournament, please call The Bicycle Casino at (562) 806-4646 ext. 545, or visit their website at www.thebike.com.

Smile Train is the world’s leading cleft charity, dedicated to helping the millions of children in the world who suffer from cleft lip and palate, by providing free surgery for patients and free training for doctors.  To learn more, visit www.smiletrain.org.

A First Impression Second To None

There's nothing like making a great first impression on your first day on the job.  Whether you are a teacher, a trucker, a doctor or a doorman, everyone wants to prove to the people that hired them that they made a good decision--and the sooner the better.

 Well, I don't think Hideki Matsui has to worry about Angels owner Arte Moreno or GM Tony Reagins second-guessing themselves about signing the former Yankees outfielder to a one-year contract in the off-season.  In his first game as an Angel, Matsui went 2-4 with a homerun and 2 RBI.

foxsportswest.com: A First Impression Second To None 

Charger Girl auditions begin April 11

--Dancing with the Stars alum Sabrina Bryan to help judge--


The San Diego Charger Girls are holding open auditions on Sunday, April 11 at the University of San Diego’s Jenny Craig Pavilion. Registration and check-in begins promptly at 9 a.m., followed by a preliminary dance audition starting at 10 a.m.

Actress/singer Sabrina Bryan, a former member of the multi-platinum recording group, The Cheetah Girls, and star of the hit Disney Channel movie series, The Cheetah Girls, brings her expertise to the judging table for this year’s tryouts. Bryan also recently starred on season five of Dancing with the Stars.

"Sabrina's variety of high profile dance and performance experience adds another level of expertise to the judging panel,” Chargers Girls Director Lisa Simmons said. “She is a talented entertainer and will bring with her both knowledge and notoriety that will help us produce the most talented and successful Charger Girls team ever."

The day-long dance audition has annually welcomed more than 400 hopefuls from across the nation and overseas trying out for 28 highly-coveted positions. The Charger Girls are known as one of professional sports’ most talented and respected cheer and dance teams.

Applications are only available on-line at www.chargers.com and applicants must be at least 18 years old. The application along with a $20 registration fee should be submitted via mail or hand-delivered no later than April 7 for pre-registration status. Women are encouraged to send a 5x7 (or larger) headshot and/or full-body shot with their application. Walk-ups will be accepted at the door with a $25 registration fee. Please make check or money order payable to e2k Sports.

Applicants are required to wear a two-piece leotard and flesh colored tights/hosiery as well as jazz, dance or athletic shoes. Applicants should arrive early, bring plenty of fluids and a light snack.

Judges will be looking for the brightest young talent with dance ability, crowd appeal and showmanship. Finalists can expect an interview and final dance audition during the week following the audition.

Team members must have flexible schedules for twice-weekly rehearsals, games and public appearances prior to and during the season.

For more information about Bryan, visit her official website, http://www.sabrinabryan.com/, or contact Maria Giannini (408) 591-3147.

LAKERS OWNER DR. JERRY BUSS TO BE ENSHRINED IN NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

EL SEDUNDO, CA – Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss has been named to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame’s Class of 2010, it was announced today.  Enshrinement for this year’s class will take place in Springfield, Massachusetts on August 13th.

“This is an overwhelming honor and one that I never anticipated when I began my ownership of the Lakers 31 years ago,” said Buss.  “I truly thank everyone involved for according me the privilege of being a member of such a prestigious body as the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.”

One of eight individuals and two teams comprising the Class of 2010 along with Cynthia Cooper, Bob Hurley, Sr., Karl Malone, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Johnson, Gus Johnson, Maciel “Ubiratan” Pereira, the 1960 USA Men’s Olympic team and the 1992 USA Basketball “Dream Team,” Buss is the third Laker to enter the Hall as a contributor (Pete Newell, Chick Hearn).

Owner of the Los Angeles Lakers since 1979, Buss has built one of the most successful organizations in the history of professional sports.  During his ownership, the Lakers have won nine NBA Championships and made 15 trips to the NBA Finals while recording the most victories and highest overall winning percentage in the NBA.  Throughout his years at the helm, Buss has brought in and/or worked alongside nine current members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame including Bill Sharman, Jerry West, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bob McAdoo, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Chick Hearn, James Worthy, Phil Jackson and Pat Riley.

In addition to his role with the Lakers, Buss owned the Los Angeles Sparks of the WNBA from 1996-2006, with the club capturing two championships (2001, 2002) under his leadership.  The first NBA team owner of a D-League franchise when the Lakers bought the Los Angeles D-Fenders in 2006, Buss also served two terms as Chairman of the NBA Board of Governors.

Among other accomplishments, Buss helped launch Prime Ticket Network (now FS West / Prime Ticket) in 1985 and initiated innovative marketing strategies still emulated by professional teams today such as an advertising agreement with Great Western Bank in 1988 that resulted in the Lakers’ former home being named the “Great Western Forum.” 

A recipient of numerous honors for his wide-ranging charitable interests, Buss will host a charity poker tournament this Saturday night, April 10th, to benefit Smile Train, just weeks after raising a record $175,000 for the Lakers Youth Foundation at the team’s annual golf tournament. 

NBA STARS JORDAN FARMAR AND ERIC GORDON GET NEW JOBS AT OFFICIAL NBA SHOP AT CHAMPS SPORTS

 
WHAT:           Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Farmar and Los Angeles Clippers guard Eric Gordon will help excite LA basketball fans for the all-new Official NBA Shop at Champs Sports at Northridge Fashion Center in Northridge.

The public is invited, and fans will have the chance to shop with Jordan and Eric and have them help pick out adidas NBA gear. They will also spend time working behind the register and meeting fans. 

Jordan and Eric will switch out of their NBA uniforms to dawn the official uniform of a Champs Sports employee and go to work for fans.  

Fans that attend will also have the opportunity to enter raffles to win signed adidas NBA gear, Champs Sports gift cards and other prizes.  



WHEN:           Tuesday, April 6

                                6-7 PM

                               



WHERE:        Champs Sports @ Northridge Fashion Center

9301 Tampa Avenue, Space 39

Northridge, CA 91324

KINGS OFFICIALLY CLINCH SPOT FOR 2010 STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS

--LOS ANGELES QUALIFIES FOR THE POSTSEASON FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2002--

The Los Angeles Kings have officially qualified for the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs.  The Kings today earned its first postseason berth since 2002 after the Calgary Flames lost to the Chicago Blackhawks this afternoon in Chicago.

The schedule for the first round of the playoffs for the Kings – currently 44-27-7, seventh in the Western Conference – will be announced by the National Hockey League on April 11.  The Kings will announce their postseason TV and Radio broadcast schedules once they are finalized.

The Kings’ schedule for the remainder of the regular season is as follows (note all practice times are subject to change -- media availability with players and Head Coach Terry Murray follows each on-ice session):


April 6 –  7 p.m. game in Anaheim

April 8 –  7:30 p.m. home game against Phoenix

April 10 – 1 p.m. home against Edmonton

April 11 – Noon (PT) game in Colorado


At the conclusion of the Kings’ final regular season contest, the Kings will distribute an electronic version of their 2010 Postseason Media Guide.  Printed copies will be available beginning April 12 or April 13.  The Kings communications department will also be distributing their General Media Playoff Information procedural guidelines in the coming days.

For all Kings playoff information, visit LAKings.com/playoffs. 

Individual playoff tickets for Kings home games are on-sale now.  For more information, visit LAKings.com/playoffs and call 1.888.KINGS.LA.

The Kings will go “Back in Black” for the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs as the team will wear their popular Alternate Jerseys for all postseason games at STAPLES Center.  The Kings are also encouraging fans to go “Back in Black” for all the remaining games at STAPLES Center as the 2009-10 regular season comes to a conclusion.


-- LAKINGS.COM --

DODGERS ANNOUNCE 2010 OPENING DAY ROSTER

PITTSBURGH – The Los Angeles Dodgers announced their Opening Day roster for the 2010 championship season.  The club also placed left-handed pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to March 26.  General Manager Ned Colletti made the announcement.

According to Major League Baseball rules, each of the 30 teams had to set their Opening Day roster today by 12:00 noon Pacific time.  The Dodgers will make an additional roster move prior to tomorrow’s Opening Day game at the Pittsburgh Pirates.


The 25-man roster, as broken down by position:


Pitchers (12):
Chad Billingsley
Jonathan Broxton
Charlie Haeger
Clayton Kershaw (L)
Hiroki Kuroda
Carlos Monasterios
Ramon Ortiz
Vicente Padilla
George Sherrill (L)
Ramon Troncoso
Cory Wade
Jeff Weaver

Catchers (2):
Brad Ausmus
Russell Martin

Infielders (6):
Ronnie Belliard
Casey Blake
Jamey Carroll
Blake DeWitt
Rafael Furcal
James Loney

Outfielders (5):
Garret Anderson
Andre Ethier
Reed Johnson
Matt Kemp
Manny Ramirez

LAKERS SIGN KOBE BRYANT TO A CONTRACT EXTENSION

Lakers fans have been waiting for this news for quite some time.  But as I have told countless people countless times, it was only a matter of time for this deal to become official.  Kobe wants to end his career as a Laker, as does Dr. Buss.

 By the way, the deal is believed to be worth $90 million over the next 3 years.

EL SEGUNDO – The Los Angeles Lakers have signed guard Kobe Bryant to a three-year contract extension, it was announced today by General Manager Mitch Kupchak.
 
“We are extremely pleased that we were able to reach an agreement and come to terms on the extension at this time,” said Kupchak. “Kobe has been a cornerstone of the Lakers for well over a decade, helping to lead us to four NBA Championships and in the process developing into one of the greatest players in basketball history.”

“Two of our main goals heading into this season were to sign Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol to contract extensions,” continued Kupchak. “With the signing of Pau earlier this season and the signing of Kobe today, we were able to accomplish those goals, helping to keep the core of this team intact for the foreseeable future and in turn help to ensure the franchise’s continued success over the years to come.”

Bryant, a four-time NBA Champion, has earned numerous accolades over the span of his 13-year career most recently being named the 2009 NBA Finals MVP. In 2008, the 12-time NBA All-Star earned the NBA Most Valuable Player Award. In that same year Bryant helped lead the United States to a gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Bryant has earned All-NBA honors in each of the last 11 seasons and has been named to the NBA’s All-Defensive Team nine times.

In Bryant’s 13 seasons with the Lakers they  have appeared in postseason play in all but one season (2004-05), and have reached the NBA Finals six times, winning championships in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2009. The 6’6” guard scored a career-high 81 points (55 in the 2nd half) on January 22, 2006, the second highest game and half totals in NBA history.

Originally acquired by the Lakers from the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Vlade Divac on July 11, 1996 after being selected by the Hornets with the 13th overall pick in the 1996 NBA Draft, Bryant is the youngest player in NBA history to score 25,000 points. Earlier this season Bryant moved past Jerry West to become the Lakers all-time leading scorer and currently ranks 12th on the NBA’s all-time scoring list. 


In 70 games this season, Bryant is averaging 27.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 38.8 minutes.