The Daily Sports Herald

DSH Re-Launch

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 07:30:00 +0000

Dear Friends,

The Daily Sports Herald's website will be briefly under construction as we embark on an exciting re-launch. The new platform should be completed in the coming days, with new, upgraded features to accompany our usual, hard-hitting journalism and West Coast sports analysis.

In the meantime, you can access our latest content on our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/TheDailySportsHerald .

Or listen to our podcasts:
https://www.blogtalkradio.com/thedailysportsherald .

We greatly appreciate your loyalty and patience.

Sincerely,

The Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Angels hire new manager Joe Maddon

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 06:11:00 +0000

The Los Angeles Angels have announced that the team has agreed to terms with three-time Manager of the Year Joe Maddon to become the Club’s new Field Manager. Other outlets have reported that the deal is for three years and is worth an estimated $12 to $15 million.

Maddon, 65, spent the first 30 seasons of his professional baseball career as a member of the Angels organization. After departing the Halos prior to the 2006 season to manage Tampa Bay, Maddon has amassed a 1,252-1,068 (.540) managerial record with eight postseason berths, capturing two pennants (2008 and 2016) and one World Series title (2016). Additionally, he has been named Manager of the Year on three different occasions, earning the honors with Tampa Bay in 2008 and 2011 and in 2015 with the Cubs.

“We are thrilled that Joe is coming back home and bringing an exciting brand of baseball to our fans,” Angels' General Manager Billy Eppler said. “Every stop he has made throughout his managerial career he has built a culture that is focused on winning while also allowing his players to thrive. We believe Joe will be a great asset for our Club and look forward to him leading the team to another World Series Championship.”

Maddon's player-friendly approach will be vital to a clubhouse that was devastated by the death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs this past season.

Maddon spent the last five years (2015-19) at the helm of the Chicago Cubs. He compiled a 471-339 (.581) record with four postseason appearances (2015-18), culminating with a World Series championship in 2016, the franchise’s first title in 108 years. Maddon became the first manager in Cubs history to lead the Club to four straight postseason appearances and his 471 wins rank fifth in club annals.

Prior to his time in Chicago, Maddon was tabbed as the fourth manager in Tampa Bay Rays history after taking over for Lou Piniella prior to the 2006 season. Under Maddon’s nine-year tutelage, the Rays went 754-705 (.517) and made four different trips to the playoffs (2008, 2010, 2011, 2013). In 2008, Maddon led the franchise to their first ever postseason appearance and guided the Rays to a World Series appearance against the Philadelphia Phillies. Following the season, Maddon would receive the first of his three Manager of the Year honors.

Maddon initially signed with the Angels as a free agent catcher and he went on to play parts of four seasons (1976-1979) in the minor league system before moving to a scouting role. From 1981-1986, he managed at three different levels of the Halos farm system and then transitioned to the franchise’s roving hitting instructor from 1987-93.

Maddon’s first stint on a big league coaching staff came in 1994. After starting the year as the Club’s player development manager, he was named the Angels’ bullpen coach in May. Maddon was then elevated to first base coach on manager Marcel Lachemann’s staff in 1995. He would serve as bench coach for most of the final 10 years (1996-2005) of his Angels career, including six seasons (2000-05) under Mike Scioscia. Additionally, Maddon made two different stints as interim manager for the Halos in 1996 and 1999, posting a 27-24 record (.529).

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

NFL Week 6 Thursday Game Preview: Giants (2-3) at Patriots (5-0)

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Thu, 10 Oct 2019 14:10:00 +0000

Week 6 of the NFL is sure to thrill with a rematch of Super Bowls XLII and XLVI when the New York Giants visit the unbeaten New England Patriots. Although the Giants won both Super Bowls in 2008 and 2012, the Patriots hold the all-time series advantage, 6-4, including edging the Giants, 27-26, in their last meeting in 2015.

New England moved to 5-0 in Week 5 after defeating Washington, 33-7, which marks their best start since 2015, and the fourth time the Patriots have started 5-0 under the leadership of head coach Bill Belichick (2004, 2007, 2015).

The real story in New England has been the defense, as the team has only given up 34 total points in its first five games of the season. This is the fewest points allowed in a team’s first five games since the 2005 Indianapolis Colts (29 points) and the fifth-fewest since 1970.

New England’s defense has been led by linebacker Jamie Collins, who is the only player in the league this season with at least four sacks (four) and multiple interceptions (three); safety Devin McCourty, whose four interceptions lead the NFL, and who became the first player in franchise history with an interception in each of his team’s first four games of a season; and rookie defensive lineman Chase Winovich, who is aiming for his third game in a row with a sack and leads all rookies in sacks (four) through Week 5.

Of course, with quarterback Tom Brady at the helm, the Pats offense is always potent. Brady passed for 348 yards with three touchdowns in the win over Washington, while wide receiver Julian Edelman had eight catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. Brady surpassed Pro Football Hall of Famer Brett Favre (71,838) for the third-most career passing yards in NFL history, and with only 18 more passing yards, Brady will surpass Peyton Manning (71,940) this Thursday, bringing his ranking to second place on the all-time list.

The New York Giants are looking to make and keep some records of their own. To date, New York rookie quarterback Daniel Jones is tied for second-most total touchdowns (four passing, two rushing) among rookie quarterbacks. Jones also became the first rookie with at least 300 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, and two rushing touchdowns in a single game since 1970.

When asked about the Giants’ offense with Daniel Jones at quarterback, as opposed to Eli Manning, Belichick noted, “Jones is fast, and he’s made plays with his legs outside the pocket. The Tampa game comes to mind right off the bat. He’s got the ability to extend plays and also run for yardage to score or pick up critical first downs.”

Unfortunately, the NFL’s latest Injury Report confirms that running back Saquon Barkley will not play on Thursday night, despite talk of a possible return. This may provide a slight bit of relief for the Patriots.

When asked about Barkley’s potential return, Belichick stated earlier in the week, “He can do it all. He’s got great power, speed, they use him well in the passing game. He’s very hard, obviously, to tackle in the open field, he’s hard to tackle anywhere. He’s got good vision, good quickness, he can play in space, he’s elusive, he’s got power, he had 2,000 yards from scrimmage last year. That pretty much says it all right there. Plus, we know he can return kickoffs and everything else, so he’s got a ton of skill, as good as any back we’ve seen on film. ”

Barkley, who entered the league in 2018, ranked third among all players with 2,339 scrimmage yards. In his ten career road games he has eight touchdowns (five rushing, three receiving) and has averaged 114 scrimmage yards.

Also out for the Giants is tight end Evan Engram due to a problematic knee. Through five weeks of the season, Engram ranks second among tight ends in receiving yards (373) and third in receptions (33).

With these notable offensive absences, New York’s defense will need to make its presence known. Since entering the league in 2012, cornerback Janoris Jenkins is one of six players with at least twenty (20) interceptions and multiple sacks (two). Jenkins will need to make more of those types of impactful plays if the Giants hope to slow down New England.

Patriots Waive Watson

The New England Patriots announced earlier in the week that they have released tight end Ben Watson.

Watson, 38, is a veteran of 15 NFL seasons, playing with the New England Patriots (2004-09), Cleveland Browns (2010-12), New Orleans Saints (2013-15, 2018), and the Baltimore Ravens (2016-17). Watson returned to New England as a free agent on May 10, 2019.

During his NFL career, Watson has played in 195 regular-season games with 135 starts and has 530 receptions for 5,885 yards with 44 touchdowns. He has also played in 12 postseason games with nine starts and totaled 22 receptions for 234 yards and three touchdowns.

WEEK 6 INJURY REPORT – GIANTS at PATRIOTS

NEW YORK GIANTS

OUT:
RB Saquon Barkley (ankle), TE Evan Engram (knee), RB Wayne Gallman (concussion), WR Sterling Shepard (concussion)

QUESTIONABLE:
LB Lorenzo Carter (neck)

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

OUT:
WR Phillip Dorsett (hamstring)

QUESTIONABLE:
RB Rex Burkhead (foot), LB Shilique Calhoun (ankle), S Patrick Chung (heel), S Nate Ebner (groin), WR Julian Edelman (chest), WR Josh Gordon (knee)

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Raiders' Vontaze Burfict suspended for season

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 05:57:00 +0000

The NFL brought the hammer down on Oakland Raiders' linebacker Vontaze Burfict, as the league announced that he has been suspended without pay for the remainder of the 2019 season, including all postseason games. The league stated in a release that the suspension was for repeated violations of unnecessary roughness rules, including in Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts.

Because the NFL is admitting its harsh punishment is based heavily on Burfict's career history of conduct, rather than his recent hit on the Colts' Jack Doyle, the suspension undoubtedly is a circumstance in which the league's bias towards Burfict as well as Burfict's reputation have combined to create a highly unusual reprimand.

The helmet-to-helmet tackle on Doyle, when viewed in isolation, warranted a standard personal foul penalty, but certainly not a season-long suspension. Such plays occur every Sunday, but undoubtedly, this is a circumstance in which Burfict's reputation preceded him, as no other player would be treated in such a manner.

After the game, Doyle himself stated, "I just got tackled. I’m sure it looked worse than it was. I didn’t really feel anything from it. My helmet protected me."

NFL Vice President of Football Operations Jon Runyan issued the suspension for a violation of Rule 12, Section 2, Article 10, which states that: “It is a foul if a player lowers his head to initiate and make contact with his helmet against an opponent.”

In his letter to Burfict, Runyan wrote:

“There were no mitigating circumstances on this play. Your contact was unnecessary, flagrant and should have been avoided. For your actions, you were penalized and disqualified from the game.”

“Following each of your previous rule violations, you were warned by me and each of the jointly-appointed appeal officers that future violations would result in escalated accountability measures. However, you have continued to flagrantly abuse rules designated to protect yourself and your opponents from unnecessary risk.”

“Your extensive history of rules violations is factored into this decision regarding accountability measures.”

Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the suspension may be appealed within three business days. Burfict is expected to appeal the decision, as it seems to apply a subjective standard specifically to him, rather than providing discipline in a standardized and objective manner similar to other players.

Thus far, the Raiders last season in Oakland has been noteworthy to say the least, as the team first dealt with the Antonio Brown circus, and now has lost one of its key defensive players for the season.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Angels fire manager Brad Ausmus

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Mon, 30 Sep 2019 07:52:00 +0000

The Los Angeles Angels' General Manager Billy Eppler today announced that Brad Ausmus will not return as manager in 2020.

Ausmus, who initially joined the franchise as a special advisor to the General Manager was named the 17th different field manager in franchise history on Oct. 21, 2018. In his only year on the job, he led the club to a 72-90 record in 2019 and a fourth place finish in the A.L. West.

The short hook was an interesting development, considering that Ausmus had a three-year deal, and prior to his stint, former Angels' skipper Mike Scioscia ran the squad for 19 years.

Although the team failed to make the playoffs, Ausmus had his moments, as he guided the team through the tragic death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs.

“I want to thank Brad for his hard work and dedication to this organization over the last two seasons as both a special assistant and field manager. He navigated this franchise through one of its most difficult seasons with class and professionalism,” Eppler said. “This was an incredibly difficult decision but after significant consideration, we’ve decided it is necessary to go in another direction.”

Among Ausmus' rumored replacements is former Cubs and Rays manager Joe Maddon.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Canelo Alvarez to fight Sergey Kovalev on November 2

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Wed, 25 Sep 2019 08:09:00 +0000

The long-rumored fight is now a reality, as it has been announced that star middleweight Canelo Alvarez 51-1-2 (34 KO’s) will boldly jump two weight classes to face fearsome puncher and current WBO Light Heavyweight champion Sergey “Krusher” Kovalev for Kovalev’s WBO title on Saturday, November 2, 2019, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The bout will be streamed live exclusively on DAZN.

“The second phase of my career is continuing just as we had planned, and that’s why we are continuing to make great fights to enter into the history books of boxing,” said Alvarez. “That’s also why I’ve decided to jump two weight classes against one of the most feared champions of recent years. Kovalev is a dangerous puncher, and he’s naturally the bigger man, but that’s the kind of challenges and risks that I like to face.”

Although Kovalev has been on a slow decline in recent years, he still has his power, as he knocked out his last opponent, undefeated Anthony Yarde, on a jab to the chin. Prior to that, Kovalev avenged a seventh round KO loss by outboxing Eleider Alvarez in a unanimous decision rematch win.

Meanwhile, Canelo is at the peak of his powers, as he not only is the biggest draw in the sport, but also seems to be improving with every fight.

Still, taking on a powerful light heavyweight like Kovalev has its risks, as the Krusher's size and reach can make a difference.

Years ago another former welterweight star who moved up the various weight classes during his career took on light heavyweight veteran Donny Lalonde. That ambitious fighter was named "Sugar" Ray Leonard, and although he won the bout, he noted afterward how Lalonde's larger size and natural power consistently hurt him throughout the fight.

Kovalev is six feet tall, while his opponent is only five feet and eight inches. However, Kovalev is now 36-years-old and has been hurt in several of his recent bouts, especially to the body.

“In order to be the best you have to beat the best," said Kovalev. "I have always tried to fight the toughest opponents in my division, but many have ducked me throughout my career. Canelo wanted to fight me; to step up to higher weight and challenge for my belt. I will be ready on November 2nd."

The bout salvages a disappointing September for Alvarez, as he was unable to fight during the month, normally a tradition for the star and his legions of fans.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Danny Roman withdraws from Akhmadaliev fight due to shoulder injury

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 07:04:00 +0000

Danny Roman will have to wait a little longer to defend his title, as he was forced to pull out of his upcoming fight with mandatory contender Murodjon Akhmadaliev on September 13 due to a left shoulder injury.

"My plan is to rest and take it easy," said Roman, who would have made the fifth defense of his WBA title that he won in knockout fashion two years ago over Shun Kubo. "I want to fight Akhmadaliev before the year is over. We'll have a better idea for a date as soon as I get medical clearance to resume training."

Roman was examined by two Los Angeles-based specialists, revealing tendinitis in his left shoulder. He has been ordered to suspend all boxing activity for a period of four to six weeks.

Thompson Boxing and co-promoter Matchroom Boxing are in the early stages of figuring out a new date for the championship fight.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Colts sign quarterback Jacoby Brissett to extension

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 07:06:00 +0000

The Indianapolis Colts moved to secure their future at the quarterback position following the surprise retirement of star Andrew Luck, as the team signed his promising backup, Jacoby Brissett, to a contract extension. Other outlets have reported that the deal is worth $30 million over two years, with $20 million guaranteed.

In 2018, Brissett saw action in four games. He started 15-of-16 games for Indianapolis in 2017 and completed 276-of-469 passes for 3,098 yards with 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Brissett also ran for four touchdowns. He threw four touchdowns of 60-plus yards, which ranked second in the NFL.

Brissett, 6'4" and 238 pounds, was acquired by the Colts via trade with the New England Patriots on September 2, 2017. He has played in 23 career games (17 starts) and has completed 312-of-528 passes for 3,500 yards with 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Brissett has also rushed for 336 yards and five touchdowns.

He was originally selected by the Patriots in the third round (91st overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft. As a rookie in 2016, Brissett saw action in three games (two starts) for New England and completed 34-of-55 passes for 400 yards. He also registered 16 carries for 83 yards and one touchdown.

Brissett was in the final year of his rookie deal prior to signing the extension.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Deontay Wilder and Luis Ortiz agree to rematch bout

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 06:33:00 +0000

Heavyweight world champion Deontay “The Bronze Bomber’’ Wilder will defend his WBC title when he takes on dangerous challenger and once-beaten Cuban slugger Luis “King Kong’’ Ortiz in a pay-per-view rematch bout on November 23 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

WBA Featherweight Champion Leo Santa Cruz will fight in the co-main event when he faces Miguel Flores for the WBA Super Featherweight Championship.

Wilder and Ortiz previously engaged in an explosive showdown in Brooklyn that was one of 2018’s best fights. The first fight saw Wilder dropping Ortiz in the fifth round; Ortiz stunning and hurting Wilder in a seventh round that he won 10-8 on all the judges’ cards; and Wilder eventually dropping Ortiz again with a powerful right uppercut that forced the referee to stop the bout in the 10th round.

“When I fought Ortiz not only did he have the pedigree, but also he had the classification of being the boogeyman of the division,” said Wilder. “I agree with those who say that Luis Ortiz was my toughest fight to date. No one wanted to fight him and they still don’t. In the rematch there’s more confidence and more motivation to do what I have to do. I’ve already seen the style before. It’s going to make it more fun. I can’t wait to see how he tries to handle me when I’m at my best."

As confident as Wilder may be, the fight certainly has risks for him. Wilder and fellow heavyweight star Tyson Fury already have agreed to a rematch of their prior draw, which is set to take place in 2020. That rematch will be one of the more lucrative bouts in the sport, and a loss to the dangerous southpaw Ortiz could jeopardize that big payday.

“I have to give Deontay Wilder a lot of credit for taking this fight because it shows he has the heart of a true champion,” said Ortiz. “He is not at all scared to take a dangerous fight, because let’s be honest, this is the most dangerous fight for him. In my opinion, he’s the best heavyweight in the world until someone beats him, and that’s exactly what I’m going to do on November 23 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on FOX Sports PBC Pay-Per-View. ‘King Kong’ is coming to Las Vegas!”

Wilder (41-0-1, 40 KOs), a bronze medal winner for the U.S. boxing team at the 2008 Olympic Games, has more than lived up to the nickname “The Bronze Bomber.’’ The 33-year-old Wilder has knocked out all but one of the men that he has faced in the ring, making him one of the most feared single-punch knockout artist in boxing today.

The fight will be Wilder’s third title defense in 11 months. He is coming off a highlight-reel first round knockout of Dominic Breazeale in Brooklyn on May 18. The rematch against Ortiz will be his 10th title defense.

Ortiz (31-1, 26 KOs) has ripped off three-straight victories since suffering the only loss of his career in that first match with Wilder in 2018, including most recently winning a unanimous decision over Christian Hammer on March 2.

Outside of the ring, Wilder and Ortiz share a common bond—they’re both motivated to fight for their daughters. Wilder’s oldest daughter, Naieya, was born with spina bifida, motivating Wilder to take up boxing to pay for her medical expenses. Ortiz’s daughter, Lismercedes, has a painful skin condition called epidermolysis bullosa, which results in painful skin blistering. Ortiz has worked to raise awareness for her affliction.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Lakers sign Dwight Howard

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 06:18:00 +0000

Who says you can't revisit the past?

With the loss of center DeMarcus Cousins to a season-ending knee injury, the Los Angeles Lakers were in desperate need of a cheap, serviceable big man. A number of fading veterans were considered, but in the end the team signed Dwight Howard, their former star who controversially left the Lakers in free agency after one tumultuous season.

By adding Howard, the team will allow star Anthony Davis to play more at his preferred power forward position, while Howard mans the five.

Other players the team considered included Joakim Noah and Marcin Gortat.

Since leaving Los Angeles, Howard has burned bridges with multiple franchises and endured his share of injuries. Perhaps that spotty track record convinced the team that Howard was facing his last chance and would be on his best behavior.

Howard appeared in nine games (all starts) with the Wizards last season, where he averaged 12.8 points and 9.2 rebounds in 25.6 minutes.

When healthy, Howard can be a force on the glass and an outstanding rim protector on defense, as he enters the season ranking first among active players in career rebounds (13,184) and blocks (2,051). Howard also is a three-time Defensive Player of the Year – winning the award in consecutive seasons from 2009-11 – and has led the league in rebounds five times (2007-10, ’11-13), blocks twice (2008-10), and field goal percentage once (2009-10).

Entering his 16th NBA season, Howard owns career averages of 17.4 points, 12.6 rebounds and 2.0 blocks through 1,044 games (1,043 starts) with Orlando, Houston, Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington and the Lakers. He currently ranks fourth in all-time field goal percentage, converting 58.3 percent of his shots from the field (minimum 2,000 FGM).

An eight-time NBA All-Star and the 2004 first overall draft pick, Howard returns to Los Angeles after posting 17.1 points and a league-best 12.4 rebounds in 2012-13, his lone season with the team.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Galaxy's Zlatan Ibrahimović is named MLS Player of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 07:23:00 +0000

After pouring in four goals in two games, Los Angeles Galaxy star forward Zlatan Ibrahimović capped off an outstanding week by being voted the Major League Soccer Player of the Week for the 24th week of the 2019 season. Ibrahimović has tallied 20 goals -- third most in the league -- and three assists this season.

Ibrahimović recorded two goals in a 2-0 Galaxy home victory over FC Dallas on Wednesday before scoring another two in a 2-2 draw against Seattle Sounders FC at home again on Saturday. Because of that production, the Galaxy are in third place in the Western Conference with 41 points (13-11-2 overall record).

Facing FC Dallas, the Galaxy took a 1-0 lead in the 68th minute. Jørgen Skjelvik dished the ball off to Ibrahimović in the center of the box, who then finished with a right-footed shot just inside the left post. Ibrahimović gave the Galaxy a 2-0 lead in the 82nd minute when he converted a penalty kick goal.

Against Seattle, Ibrahimovic helped LA pull even at 1-1 with a goal in the 45th minute. Sebastian Lletget sent a cross into the middle of the box where Ibrahimović finished with a header to the far post. He completed his second-consecutive brace in the 65th minute to give the Galaxy a 2-1 lead after drawing a penalty and converting the opportunity with a right-footed shot.

The LA Galaxy host Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup semifinals on Tuesday, before returning to regular season action when facing LAFC on Sunday.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

USA Men's Basketball Team cruises to exhibition win over Spain, 90-81

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 15:04:00 +0000

Photo by: Tri Le/Daily Sports Herald

By Mike Elliott

Anaheim, Calif. -- The USA Men's National Basketball Team eased some anxiety over the quality of its roster Friday night, as the Americans dominated the boards and tightened up their defense to earn a comfortable 90-81 win over Spain in an exhibition game at the Honda Center in Anaheim.

As expected, the talented perimeter trio of Kemba Walker, Donovan Mitchell, and Khris Middleton led the way for the United States, scoring 11, 13, and 12 points respectively. Walker also dished out eight assists in his 22 minutes on the floor.

The U.S. team entered the game with a litany of concerns, as many of the country's top players have declined to participate in the upcoming FIBA World Cup. Then this past week, multiple outlets reported that the squad lost handily in a scrimmage to a team of G League players. To complicate matters further, guard Marcus Smart has been sidelined with a calf strain and PJ Tucker -- a valuable role player who many thought would help the team with his experience, outside shooting, and defense -- withdrew from the team only hours before Friday's game due to a left ankle injury he suffered in practice Thursday.

Apparently, all the anxiety was much ado about nothing.

USA Basketball showed off the depth of its program, as the same trademark athleticism and uptempo pace seen from the program throughout Jerry Colangelo's tenure, was again on display against Spain. Even more important was the team's overall effort and effective man-to-man defense, as the U.S. held Spain to 41 percent shooting and enjoyed a massive 42 to 20 edge on the glass.

"I was most pleased with us defensively," USA Head Coach Gregg Popovich said. "I thought we did a good job for a new group communicating with each other. We rebounded well. We haven't done that to date, consistently. I thought we had a good effort from everybody on board tonight."

The United States started off strong and never looked back, hitting five three-pointers and scoring nine fast break points to take a 31-20 first quarter lead.

In the second quarter, the Americans created their share of moments for the highlight reel, as Jayson Tatum drove the lane for a monster "and one" dunk, followed shortly later by Donovan's Mitchell's thunderous jam as he slashed baseline to the hole. The U.S. would close the half with a 54-41 lead.

Spain made a brief rally in the second half, forcing a couple of turnovers and cutting the U.S. lead to 58-50 in the third quarter on a deep three from Sergio Llull. However, the Americans responded quickly with a Jaylen Brown jumper, a Kyle Kuzma offensive rebound and putback, and a Jaylen Brown three to push the lead back to 65-50.

Despite two late threes in garbage time from center Marc Gasol to cut the final deficit to nine, Spain would not seriously threaten the U.S. again. Gasol would finish with 19 to lead all scorers.

"The wins and losses are pretty unimportant at this time. It's more about getting better, getting together, a group learning to execute together," USA coach Gregg Popovich said.

Offensively, the U.S. seemed ahead of schedule, as the team moved the ball, spaced the floor, and shot 55 percent overall while making 58 percent of its threes.

Meanwhile, Spain has been dealing with problems similar to those of the U.S., as Pau Gasol and some of their other big names will not be participating in the FIBA World Cup. With that absence of star power, and with less depth compared to the U.S. talent pool, Spain will be heavily reliant on guards Ricky Rubio and Sergio Llull to lead the team. Both played fairly well Friday, with Rubio putting up sixteen points and seven assists, and Llull getting eleven points and six assists.

Photo by: Tri Le/Daily Sports Herald

"I thought the Spanish team was just astounding with all the offense that they ran the way they execute," Popovich said. "The way they read each other, you can really see the experience. We hope to get close to something like that offensively. And it's going to be difficult in this short time. But it was a great example for us to see that."

The Americans will head for Australia next, where they will play three more exhibitions, two against the host country and one against Canada to wrap up their pre-World Cup action.

In the post-game press conference, Popovich stated that the team would take all fourteen players to Australia before making any final roster cuts.

The current roster is comprised of Harrison Barnes (Sacramento Kings); Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics); De'Aaron Fox (Sacramento Kings); Joe Harris (Brooklyn Nets); Kyle Kuzma (Los Angeles Lakers); Brook Lopez (Milwaukee Bucks); Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks); Donovan Mitchell (Utah Jazz); Mason Plumlee (Denver Nuggets), Marcus Smart (Boston Celtics); Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics); Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers); Kemba Walker (Boston Celtics); and Derrick White (San Antonio Spurs).

NFL reinstates wide receiver Josh Gordon

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 16 Aug 2019 07:04:00 +0000

With the retirement of tight end Rob Gronkowski, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has been in need of another big play weapon.

Help is now on the way, as Commissioner Roger Goodell notified talented Patriots' wide receiver Josh Gordon that he will be reinstated to the NFL on a conditional basis.

Gordon has had a history of substance abuse problems, causing him to be suspended multiple times throughout his career. Gordon had been suspended indefinitely since December of 2018 for violations of the NFL-NFLPA Policy and Program for Substances of Abuse.

"We are all rooting for Josh to succeed, both personally and professionally," said Goodell. "Everyone shares in that hope and will continue to support him to every extent possible. But as Josh acknowledged, ultimately his success is up to him."

Effective Sunday, Gordon may rejoin the Patriots to attend meetings and engage in conditioning work and individual workouts.

Subject to appropriate progress on clinical care and other arrangements, he will be permitted to participate in team activities including practice. Because he will not have had sufficient conditioning and practice time, however, he may attend but may not play in the Patriots' Thursday, August 22 game.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Clippers sign Patrick Patterson, announce return to Hawaii for training camp

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 07:21:00 +0000

The Los Angeles Clippers added some depth to their frontcourt, signing veteran free agent forward Patrick Patterson, it was announced today by President of Basketball Operations, Lawrence Frank. Other outlets have reported that the deal is for one year at $2.3 million.

Patterson became available after he agreed to a buyout with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Patterson's likely role will be as a reserve stretch-four, as he has been a fairly reliable three-point shooter throughout his career. His acquisition could prove quite important because the Clippers will need shooters to space the floor for newly-added stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.

Patterson, 30, appeared in 63 games for the Oklahoma City Thunder during the 2018-19 season, averaging 3.6 points and 2.3 rebounds in 13.7 minutes. The 6’9”, 230-pound forward holds career averages of 6.9 points and 4.1 rebounds, while shooting 45.0 percent from the field in 21.8 minutes in 622 appearances across nine seasons with Houston, Sacramento, Toronto and Oklahoma City.

He played three collegiate seasons at the University of Kentucky, before being selected by the Houston Rockets with the 14th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.

In other Clippers news . . .

Clippers' to conduct training camp in Hawaii

The Clippers and Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) have announced that the Clippers will return to Honolulu for Training Camp to tip off the 2019-20 season.

The Clippers’ third annual Training Camp trip to Hawaii will include a preseason game against Russell Westbrook, James Harden, and the Houston Rockets on Thursday, October 3 at 7:00 p.m., and another against the Chinese Basketball Association’s Shanghai Sharks, owned and run by retired NBA star Yao Ming, on Sunday, October 6 at 1:00 p.m. Both games will be played at the Stan Sheriff Center on the campus of the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

These two games in Hawaii complete the Clippers preseason schedule, which also includes matchups against the Denver Nuggets and Australia’s Melbourne United on October 10th and 13th respectively, at the STAPLES Center, and a game at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada against the Dallas Mavericks on October 17th.

As part of the agreement between the Clippers and HTA, the Clippers will host a youth basketball clinic and a coaches clinic in Hawaii, and also refurbish a local school’s computer lab.

This offseason the team signed two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard, and added six-time All-Star Paul George in a trade. In addition, the team re-signed Patrick Beverley, JaMychal Green, Rodney McGruder and Ivica Zubac, added Maurice Harkless via trade, and acquired Mfiondu Kabengele and Terance Mann in the 2019 NBA Draft.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Holiday Bowl to match Pac-12 against ACC in 2020

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Thu, 15 Aug 2019 07:17:00 +0000

The Holiday Bowl in San Diego is changing its annual matchup between two of the Power Five Conferences, as the Pac-12 will continue to put forth a team in the game, but the Big Ten will not participate following the expiration of its six-year contract. In its place in 2020 will be the ACC.

“We are pleased to partner with the San Diego County Credit Union Holiday Bowl and look forward to the annual postseason match up with the Pac-12,” said ACC Commissioner John Swofford. “The Holiday Bowl provides an outstanding destination and national platform for our student-athletes, teams and fans and we look forward to this new relationship.”

Not one of the 15 ACC schools has ever played in the Holiday Bowl. ACC schools include Boston College, Clemson, Duke, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Louisville, Miami, North Carolina, NC State, Pitt, Syracuse, Virginia, Virginia Tech, and Wake Forest. If bowl eligible and not in a College Football Playoff game, Notre Dame is also available to ACC bowls. In 2018, the ACC had 11 schools play in bowl games.

The Pac-12 has participated in 21 straight Holiday Bowls, 24 in all. Stanford and Oregon State are the only two schools in the 12-team conference that haven’t played in any of the 41 Holiday Bowl games. The Pac-12 teams that have participated include Arizona (2 appearances), Arizona State (4), Cal (3), Colorado (1), Oregon (3), UCLA (1), USC (2), Utah (1), Washington (4) and Washington State (4).

In 2018 the game saw Northwestern upset Utah 31-20. The 2019 game kicks off at 5:00 p.m., Friday, December 27, and will feature top teams from the Pac-12 and Big Ten.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

USA Basketball Men's National Team crushes USA Select Team, 97-78

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 06:20:00 +0000

By Kweku Turkson

Las Vegas -- What, me worry?

Despite more than a few anxious moments during the week when the younger, lower-profile Select squad (helmed by long-time NBA coach Jeff Van Gundy and Gonzaga's Mark Few) got the best of the Senior team, the "big guys" squashed all doubt -- at least for the moment -- by absolutely destroying the Selects in Friday's intra-squad game, 97-78.

The difference in the guard play between the two teams was glaring, as Kemba Walker, Donovan Mitchell, and to a lesser extent, De'Aaron Fox, all took turns making life miserable for the Select's Jalen Brunson.

Curiously, former G-League guard Derrick White, who more than held his own throughout the week, played limited minutes on Friday. This likely made more sense after the game when it was announced that White, along with big man Marvin Bagley III of the Sacramento Kings, had both been called up to the Senior team roster moving forward. To make room for the two, USA Basketball Managing Director Jerry Colangelo announced that Thaddeus Young and Bam Adebayo had been cut from the squad.

"Well, it's a beginning, a new tournament," said coach Gregg Popovich. "Another World Cup, in this case, the FIBA World Cup. I think our guys are making progress, they haven't played together before, but they've shown great effort, doing a good job, in a lot of different ways, just trying to get used to each other, and form a team. So, we're still in those early stages and trying to get together and figure out how we want to play, and learn about each other. So, tonight was another step."

Selects' Fox sly on the Senior squad

Although originally slated as a member of the younger USA Basketball Select team, Sacramento Kings point guard De'Aaron Fox was soon tabbed as a member of the Senior team, and the quicksilver southpaw out of the University of Kentucky showed why he was easily the quickest player anytime he stepped on the floor.

The challenge for the mercurial third-year player will be how quickly and comfortably he is able to learn to change speeds by either utilizing his otherworldly pace or reigning it in to keep the opposition off balance.

Donovan Mitchell poised to explode

Donovan Mitchell showed throughout the week that pound-for-pound, he is the most freakish, athletically gifted, and explosive player on either roster. He seemed to be able to uncork reminders of that next-level athleticism at will, just to remind anyone that may have forgotten what kind of athletic feats he is capable of at any given moment.

However, Mitchell also displayed a perhaps underrated, yet definitely still developing acumen and understanding of the game. Perhaps sensing this, Coach Pop also inserted him into the rotation at point guard at various times throughout the game, including a couple of stretches during Friday night's intra-squad scrimmage.

Mitchell touched on the topic after the game, saying, "I think the biggest thing, as far as my reads go, is just slowing down a lot of times -- especially my first year or so, just kind of going, and trying to make a read out of that. I think now just being able to understand where the big is at, understand where the help is coming from, and not always being in a rush. That's one thing I'm really starting to work on, as far as coming off pick and roll. Even in transition, not always going 100 miles per hour, being able to change pace, and find the open guys, not just score, as well."

Tatum displays accurate stroke

On Friday night Jayson Tatum displayed the same improved stroke from long range that he had been showing off all week, aggressively and effectively making three out of his five three-point attempts.

Four of a kind / See ya Kyrie

Speaking of Tatum, he combined with Walker, Jaylen Brown, and Marcus Smart to make the Boston Celtics the NBA team with the most players on the USA Basketball roster. The three incumbent Celtics at various times throughout the week could be seen cutting up with their newly-acquired All-Star point guard, as all three seemed to go out of their way to praise their new teammate as being selfless, low maintenance, and a "true pro," for whatever its worth (hint, hint Kyrie Irving).

Kemba takes charge

Throughout the week, it was clear that whether he wanted it or not, Walker has almost by default assumed the role of Alpha Dog. It actually makes sense, when one considers that other than PJ Tucker and Brook Lopez, the humble UConn product is in fact the elder statesman on this iteration of Team USA.

Walker never seemed to be without a smile on his face throughout the week, and as he has been wont to do throughout his nine-year NBA career, Walker demonstrated that he simply has the ability to get to any spot on the floor, whenever and however he wants.

Loose Balls

Guards Kyle Lowry (thumb) and Marcus Smart (quad contusion) were inactive. The team will likely make at least two more cuts within the next week, as Team USA has 10 days to get the roster down to 12 players.

Friday's starting lineups for the intra-squad scrimmage: Coach Popovich's starting five consisted of Kemba Walker and Donovan Mitchell in the backcourt, Jaylen Brown and Khris Middleton in the frontcourt, and Myles Turner in the middle. Coach Jeff Van Gundy countered with a starting unit of Jalen Brunson, Jaren Jackson Jr., Mikal Bridges, Jonathan Isaac, and Marvin Bagley III.

Interview with former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 07:43:00 +0000

The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson caught up with former heavyweight champion Hasim Rahman, as he discusses the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame:

Golden Boy announces Jaime Munguia bout on Mexican Independence Day Weekend

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 07:37:00 +0000

Golden Boy and DAZN have been in scramble mode ever since it was learned that Canelo Alvarez would not be fighting his traditional bout on Mexican Independence Day Weekend. Not only have the two companies been trying to repair the strained relationship with their biggest star, but they have also been looking to fill the same mid-September date with another fight card.

Now they finally have a fight.

Today it was announced that Jaime Munguia (33-0, 26 KOs) will take on Patrick Allotey (40-3, 30 KOs) in a 12-round fight for the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on Saturday, September 14. The bout will be streamed live on DAZN.

Munguia is a 22-year-old world champion of Tijuana, Mexico who catapulted to the highest levels of the 154-pound division by knocking out Sadam "World Kid" Ali in May to capture the WBO Junior Middleweight World Title. Since then, Munguia has defended his title against the likes of Liam "Beefy" Smith, Brandon "Bad Boy" Cook, Takeshi Inoue, and Dennis Hogan.

"I feel very happy for the opportunity of headlining a card on Sept. 14," said Jaime Munguia. "That's the best date for boxing in the entire year. It's a great date for Mexico because that's when we celebrate Mexican Independence Day. I'm proud and honored to be representing Mexico in the festivals for my country. I'll give my best and I'll try to deliver a great fight for all the people and for those who will see us."

Allotey is a 28-year-old native of Accra, Ghana who debuted as a professional in 2006 when he was only 16 years old. Though suffering losses against Golden Boy's Patrick Teixeira and standout contender Kanat Islam, Allotey is coming off six victories in a row.

"I respect Munguia. He is a great fighter," said Patrick Allotey. "But I'm an African warrior, so you know I'll be coming to cause a big surprise."

In the co-main event, rising sensation Ryan Garcia (18-0, 15 KOs) of Victorville, Calif. will take on Avery "A Plus" Sparrow (10-1, 3 KOs) of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in a 10-round lightweight fight.

"Sparrow is basically an undefeated fighter with a good amateur background," Ryan Garcia. "People in boxing that know boxing will know this isn't an easy fight. It will not be overlooked."

Also, Pablo Cesar "El Demoledor" Cano (32-7-1, 22 KOs) of Tlalnepantla, Mexico will defend his WBC International Silver Super Lightweight Title in a 12-round fight against Michael "The Artist" Perez (25-3-2, 11 KOs) of Newark, New Jersey. Cano will return from his upset victory over Jorge "El Niño de Oro" Linares, and he will look to fight for a world title at 140 pounds if successful against Perez.

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com

Exclusive interview with boxing broadcaster Al Bernstein

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 07:35:00 +0000

Watch The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson's exclusive interview with boxing Hall of Fame broadcaster Al Bernstein:

Shane Mosley discusses Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 07:28:00 +0000

The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson caught up with Southern California boxing legend "Sugar" Shane Mosley to discuss the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame and his career:

NBA insider Brian Windhorst discusses USA Basketball and 2019 FIBA World Cup

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 06:00:00 +0000

Las Vegas -- The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson caught up with NBA insider extraordinaire Brian Windhorst, who dished on Team USA's stiffest competition, what he sees as the team's areas of strength, and who will be the best player competing at the FIBA World Cup in China (Hint: It's not a player on Team USA):

Warriors coach Steve Kerr compares Gregg Popovich and Phil Jackson

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 09:30:00 +0000

Las Vegas -- Coach Steve Kerr talks with The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson and praises new USA Basketball Head Coach Gregg Popovich, while also comparing and contrasting coach Pop to former Lakers coach great Phil Jackson:

Atlanta Hawks' Trae Young reflects on his rookie year

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 06:29:00 +0000

Las Vegas -- Atlanta Hawks' sharpshooter Trae Young discusses with The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson what tweaks to his game he has been working on since completing his rookie season, and what it means to be chosen as a member of the 15-man USA Basketball Men's Select Team.

In Part 2 of our conversation at USA Basketball's Selection camp, Trae Young reveals to The Daily Sports Herald which point guards from previous generations his Dad had him study, explains what caused early season struggles, and states his goals for the next NBA season.

Celtics' Kemba Walker discusses his expectations for this season

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Fri, 09 Aug 2019 05:41:00 +0000

Las Vegas -- Kemba Walker, the pride of the Bronx and Rice High School, shares his thoughts with The Daily Sports Herald's Kweku Turkson on a suddenly wide-open Eastern Conference that appears up for grabs. Walker also discusses developing chemistry with his three new Celtics teammates that are also participating at the USA Basketball camp, as well as his expectations for the upcoming season:

USA Basketball sets roster for intrasquad exhibition game

noreply@blogger.com (TheDailySportsHerald) — Thu, 08 Aug 2019 12:45:00 +0000

USA Basketball today announced the rosters for the August 9 USA White versus USA Blue exhibition game that will be played at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. PDT.

Featured on the 15-member USA Blue Team are USA National Team World Cup training camp members Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat); Harrison Barnes (Sacramento Kings); Jaylen Brown (Boston Celtics); Kyle Kuzma (Los Angeles Lakers); Brook Lopez (Milwaukee Bucks); Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks); Donovan Mitchell (Utah Jazz); Mason Plumlee (Denver Nuggets), Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics); P.J. Tucker (Houston Rockets); Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers); Kemba Walker (Boston Celtics); and Thaddeus Young (Chicago Bulls).

Additionally, USA Select Team members De'Aaron Fox (Sacramento Kings) and Joe Harris (Brooklyn Nets) will suit up for the USA Blue, while USA National Team members Kyle Lowry (Toronto Raptors) and Marcus Smart (Boston Celtics) will attend but will not play due to injuries.

The 11-member USA White Team includes Select Team players Jarrett Allen (Brooklyn Nets); Marvin Bagley III (Sacramento Kings); Mikal Bridges (Phoenix Suns); Jalen Brunson (Dallas Mavericks); John Collins (Atlanta Hawks); Pat Connaughton (Milwaukee Bucks); Torrey Craig (Denver Nuggets); Jonathan Isaac (Orlando Magic); Jaren Jackson Jr. (Memphis Grizzlies); Mitchell Robinson (New York Knicks); and Derrick White (San Antonio Spurs).

Trae Young (Atlanta Hawks) will miss the exhibition because of an eye-infection.

Following Friday's intrasquad exhibition, selected USA World Cup Team finalists will take a short break and will reassemble in Los Angeles to train Aug. 13-15 and play an exhibition contest versus FIBA's No. 2 world ranked team, Spain, at the Honda Center in Anaheim on Aug. 16 (7 p.m. PDT).

The American squad will continue its World Cup preparations Aug. 19-24 in Melbourne, Australia, and play a pair of exhibition games versus Australia on Aug. 22 and Aug. 24 at Marvel Stadium. The USA will complete its pre-World Cup tour Aug. 25-28 in Sydney, Australia. Slated to conduct training Aug. 25, 27 and 28, the U.S. will close out its exhibition tour on Aug. 26 facing Canada.

NBA TV will televise the USA intrasquad exhibition and the game will also be streamed live on Twitch at https://www.twitch.tv/nba.

The 32-team 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup competition will be held Aug. 31-Sept. 15 in China. The United States, two-time defending World Cup champion and FIBA's No. 1 world ranked team, was drawn into Group E and will play its first-round games in Shanghai. The USA will play Czech Republic on Sept. 1, Turkey on Sept. 3 and Japan on Sept. 5.