The NHL Playoffs get underway tonight and the Los Angeles Kings look to repeat as Stanley Cup Champions. The Kings became the first number eight seed in NHL history to win the Stanley Cup last year. The shortened regular season was marked by the Chicago Blackhawk's incredible run going 24 games into the regular season without losing a game in regulation. The Blackhawks are the number one seed in the Western Conference and the Penguins are the number one seed in the Eastern Conference. 16 teams will begin a long journey needing 16 wins to become Stanley Cup Champions.
Western Conference first round series (predictions)
(8) Wild vs (1) Blackhawks - (Blackhawks in 5)
(7) Red Wings vs (2) Ducks - (Ducks in 6)
(6) Sharks vs (3) Canucks - (Sharks in 7)
(5) Kings vs (4) Blues - (Blues in 7)
Eastern Conference first round series (predictions)
(8) Islanders vs (1) Penguins - (Penguins in 5)
(7) Senators vs (2) Canadiens - (Canadiens in 6)
(6) Rangers vs (3) Capitals - (Capitals in 7)
(5) Maple Leafs vs (4) Bruins - (Bruins in 6)
The Stanley Cup Playoffs begin tonight with three first round games all in the Western Conference. Wild vs Blackhawks 8 ET on NBC Sports Network, Kings vs Blues 8 ET on CNBC, and Red Wings vs Ducks 10:30 ET on NBC Sports Network.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Wainwright shines, Blues clinch
The St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Washington Nationals 2-0 as Adam Wainwright capped off a stellar performance. Runs were at a premium for the Cardinals tonight, but one was all they needed as Adam Wainwright lasted 8 1/3 innings and Edward Mujica recorded the save. The Cardinals got on the board in the 4th inning with an RBI from Allen Craig, his 15th RBI of the season scoring in Shane Robinson and then later in the 4th inning Carlos Beltran drove in Allen Craig, Beltran's 12th RBI of the season.
Adam Wainwright lasted 8 1/3 allowing no runs on five hits and striking out 9. Wainwright came into this game not allowing a walk yet as this was his fifth start of the season, but the no walk streak ended in the sixth inning tonight as he walked Bryce Harper. Wainwright's no walk streak was at 34 2/3 innings. In that same inning, Wainwright struck out Adam LaRoche with the bases loaded. Wainwright couldn't finish the deal as he left the game with one out in the 9th as Edward Mujica took over only needing two pitches to record two outs. Mujica recorded his third save of the season and he certainly seems to be the answer for the Cardinals bullpen.
The Cardinals took the first two games over the Nationals as they go for the three game sweep tomorrow afternoon as Jaime Garcia goes up against Stephen Strasburg. First pitch is at 12:05 CT.
Following the Cardinals win over the Nationals, the St. Louis Blues have clinched a playoff spot with a 3-1 win over the Colorado Avalanche. The Blues are currently in fifth place in the Western Conference with a 27-17-2 record with 56 points. However, with two games remaining, the Blues look to battle for positioning as the Blues could finish as high as fourth place in the Western Conference, which would mean the Blues would have home-ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs. This will be the second straight year the Blues have clinched a playoff spot and their third playoff appearance in the last eight seasons.
The Blues got on the board early with a goal from Chris Stewart in the first period, as that marked Stewart's 100th goal of his career. The Blues did not look back as Brian Elliott stopped 17 shots as last time out Elliott allowed four goals against the Avalanche as he was pulled in the second period.
The Blues two remaining games left are both at home against the Flames and the Blackhawks, looking for momentum heading into the playoffs.
Adam Wainwright lasted 8 1/3 allowing no runs on five hits and striking out 9. Wainwright came into this game not allowing a walk yet as this was his fifth start of the season, but the no walk streak ended in the sixth inning tonight as he walked Bryce Harper. Wainwright's no walk streak was at 34 2/3 innings. In that same inning, Wainwright struck out Adam LaRoche with the bases loaded. Wainwright couldn't finish the deal as he left the game with one out in the 9th as Edward Mujica took over only needing two pitches to record two outs. Mujica recorded his third save of the season and he certainly seems to be the answer for the Cardinals bullpen.
The Cardinals took the first two games over the Nationals as they go for the three game sweep tomorrow afternoon as Jaime Garcia goes up against Stephen Strasburg. First pitch is at 12:05 CT.
Following the Cardinals win over the Nationals, the St. Louis Blues have clinched a playoff spot with a 3-1 win over the Colorado Avalanche. The Blues are currently in fifth place in the Western Conference with a 27-17-2 record with 56 points. However, with two games remaining, the Blues look to battle for positioning as the Blues could finish as high as fourth place in the Western Conference, which would mean the Blues would have home-ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs. This will be the second straight year the Blues have clinched a playoff spot and their third playoff appearance in the last eight seasons.
The Blues got on the board early with a goal from Chris Stewart in the first period, as that marked Stewart's 100th goal of his career. The Blues did not look back as Brian Elliott stopped 17 shots as last time out Elliott allowed four goals against the Avalanche as he was pulled in the second period.
The Blues two remaining games left are both at home against the Flames and the Blackhawks, looking for momentum heading into the playoffs.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Busy Night for St. Louis Sports
It was a busy night for St. Louis sports as the Cardinals started a four game series on the road against the Phillies, the Blues continued their playoff push against the Coyotes, and the Rams announced their 2013 NFL Schedule.
The Cardinals defeated the Phillies 4-3 as they took game one of the series. Yadier Molina started the scoring for the Cardinals in the Top of the 4th with a double out to right field, scoring Matt Holliday and Jon Jay. Adam Wainwright had a shutout through 5 innings but the Phillies tied the game at two as Chase Utley smashed a ball up the middle to score in Freddy Galvis to tie the game. Two runs for the Phillies in the 6th inning ended Adam Wainwright's 18 1/3 scoreless inning streak. Wainwright received the win lasting 7 innings allowing 3 runs on 9 hits and striking out 4. Wainwright still holds a streak as he has gone 29 innings straight without allowing a walk to start the season. The game was tied at 3 in the Top of the 8th as Carlos Beltran hit a solo home run to left field as the Cardinals took a 4-3 lead. The bullpen has been a concern early this season for the Cardinals, and their bullpen gave their fans a scare tonight, but Edward Mujica came in to record four outs. It wasn't easy as Phillies had runners on second and third to start the Bottom of the 9th with one out, but Mujica sealed the deal by striking out Jimmy Rollins and getting Freddy Galvis to ground out to second basemen Daniel Descalso. Edward Mujica recorded his first save of the season, Adam Wainwright improves to 3-1, and Mike Adams falls to 0-1. Cardinals improves to 9-6 on the season and the Phillies fall to 6-10. Game 2 is tomorrow at 6:05 CT as Jaime Garcia faces off against Roy Halladay.
The Blues defeated the Coyotes 2-1 in a shootout as the Blues move closer to a playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Blues (25-16-2) are currently in 6th place in the Western Conference as they improved to 5-1 in shootouts this season, the Blues are in 6th place right now pending the Wild and Sharks outcome tonight. The Coyotes (18-17-8) are 11th in the Western Conference as their playoff hopes are winding down with 44 points, fell to 3-5 on shootouts this season. The Blues got on the board first with a David Perron goal, his 10th of the season, 9:58 into the 1st period. The Blues struggled to score all game but Elliot kept the Blues in the game until 1:07 left in the third period as the Coyotes tied the game up at 1 with a powerplay goal, after a questionable call on David Backes. Andy McDonald scored the lone shootout goal as Brian Elliot shut out the Coyotes in the shootout. The Blues next game is tomorrow night against the Dallas Stars in St. Louis as the Stars sit at 10th place in the Western Conference, but only four points behind the 8th place Blue Jackets. Blues and Stars drop the puck at 7 CT. Coyotes next game is Saturday night on the road in Chicago as the Blackhawks are first in the Western Conference.
The St. Louis Rams have announced their 2013 NFL Schedule. The Rams open up the regular season at home against division rival Arizona Cardinals on September 8th at 3:25 CT on FOX. The Rams close the season at another division rival in the Seattle Seahawks at Seattle on December 29th, 3:25 CT on FOX. The Rams out of division games include at Atlanta (Former Ram Steven Jackson now with the Falcons), vs Jacksonville, at Houston, at Carolina, vs Tennessee, at Indianapolis, vs Chicago, vs New Orleans and vs Tampa Bay. The Rams also have two prime time games at home, both coming against division rivals. The Rams first prime time game is on Thursday night September 26th against the 49ers, 7:25 CT on NFL Network. The Rams second prime time game is against the Seahawks on Monday Night Football, Oct 28th, 7:40 CT on ESPN. This will be the Rams first Monday Night Football game at home since 2006 against the Chicago Bears. The Rams will now focus on the NFL Draft starting next week.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
A.J. Burnett shuts down Cardinals
A.J. Burnett delivered an outstanding game against the Cardinals tonight only allowing one hit as the Pirates defeated the Cardinals 5-0. Pirates improved to 7-7 and the Cardinals fell to 8-6.
A.J. Burnett took a no hitter into the 7th inning as it was eventually broken up by Carlos Beltran's two out double to right center. A.J. Burnett was the story tonight allowing only one hit and striking out 8. Shelby Miller's outing wasn't that bad either lasting 6 innings allowing only allowing 2 runs on 6 hits and striking out 6.
The game was still in reach for the Cardinals entering the Top of the 7th only trailing 2-0 but Yadier Molina flied out to center after Carlos Beltran's double.
The Cardinals bullpen continues to struggle as they allowed 3 more runs tonight in the 7th and 8th innings as the Pirates went on to win 5-0.
Cardinals head to Philadelphia for four games tomorrow, part of a 10 game road trip as Adam Wainwright goes up against Cliff Lee. First pitch 6:05 CT.
No easy task for the Pirates up next as the battle the Braves, who are off to a 12-2 start this season. Julio Teheran for the Braves will face Jeff Locke of the Pirates. First pitch at 6:05 CT.
A.J. Burnett took a no hitter into the 7th inning as it was eventually broken up by Carlos Beltran's two out double to right center. A.J. Burnett was the story tonight allowing only one hit and striking out 8. Shelby Miller's outing wasn't that bad either lasting 6 innings allowing only allowing 2 runs on 6 hits and striking out 6.
The game was still in reach for the Cardinals entering the Top of the 7th only trailing 2-0 but Yadier Molina flied out to center after Carlos Beltran's double.
The Cardinals bullpen continues to struggle as they allowed 3 more runs tonight in the 7th and 8th innings as the Pirates went on to win 5-0.
Cardinals head to Philadelphia for four games tomorrow, part of a 10 game road trip as Adam Wainwright goes up against Cliff Lee. First pitch 6:05 CT.
No easy task for the Pirates up next as the battle the Braves, who are off to a 12-2 start this season. Julio Teheran for the Braves will face Jeff Locke of the Pirates. First pitch at 6:05 CT.
NBA Playoff Preview
The NBA Playoffs are upon us as tonight marks up the last day of the regular season. There is only one playoff spot left to be determined and that is the 8th seed in the Western Conference as the Utah Jazz and Los Angeles Lakers look for a possible playoff spot. The #1 seeds feature last year's NBA Finals as the Miami Heat are the number one seed in the Eastern Conference and the Oklahoma City Thunder are the number one seed in the Western Conference. The Heat will look to repeat as NBA Champions, as this team capped off a 27 game win streak earlier this season.
Tonight the Utah Jazz visit the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Lakers host the Houston Rockets, both are on ESPN. Who will get this last playoff spot? It has been a nightmare season for the Lakers as they have been battling with injuries all season, most notably of course Kobe Bryant, who is out for the rest of the season with a torn Achilles' tendon. Kobe has dealt with injuries all throughout his career, but never one as serious and potentially career-ending as this one.
For the Lakers to get into the playoffs, they need a win or a Jazz loss and the Jazz clinch a playoff spot with a win and a Lakers loss. Steve Nash is out tonight for the Lakers against the Rockets with a hamstring injury but it is only day-to-day as the Lakers hope to get him back in time for the playoffs, if indeed the Lakers get in.
Tonight is the last day of the regular season and the Lakers and Jazz look to create a lot of drama as the 8th and final playoff spot looks to be concluded in the Western Conference.
Tonight the Utah Jazz visit the Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Lakers host the Houston Rockets, both are on ESPN. Who will get this last playoff spot? It has been a nightmare season for the Lakers as they have been battling with injuries all season, most notably of course Kobe Bryant, who is out for the rest of the season with a torn Achilles' tendon. Kobe has dealt with injuries all throughout his career, but never one as serious and potentially career-ending as this one.
For the Lakers to get into the playoffs, they need a win or a Jazz loss and the Jazz clinch a playoff spot with a win and a Lakers loss. Steve Nash is out tonight for the Lakers against the Rockets with a hamstring injury but it is only day-to-day as the Lakers hope to get him back in time for the playoffs, if indeed the Lakers get in.
Tonight is the last day of the regular season and the Lakers and Jazz look to create a lot of drama as the 8th and final playoff spot looks to be concluded in the Western Conference.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Marcus Smart returning for his sophomore season
Oklahoma State's freshmen guard Marcus Smart will return for his sophomore season and will not enter the NBA Draft. Smart was a projected Top 5 pick in the NBA Draft according to Yahoo! Sports. With players like Michael Carter Williams, Otto Porter Jr., Cody Zeller, Ben McLemore, and Victor Oladipo entering the NBA Draft this season, it sure is a surprise to see that Marcus Smart, a freshmen with a high draft stock, turn down the NBA and return for another season at college.
With Marcus Smart staying, Oklahoma State will have all of their returning starters back next year as they look to be early favorites next year in the Big 12 with explosive players like Le'Bryan Nash and Markel Brown, and shooters like Phil Forte.
Of course you can't overlook Kansas next season in the Big 12 with winning 9 straight regular season titles, but Kansas is losing all of their starters from this year as Elijah Johnson, Travis Releford, Jeff Withey, Kevin Young, and Ben McLemore are leaving. Andrew Wiggins still hasn't made a decision yet of where he is going, as he is one of the top recruits from Canada. Wiggins is considering Kentucky, Duke, Kansas, Ohio State, and Florida State.
Oklahoma State split with Kansas last season, defeating Kansas 85-80 as the Cowboys put an end to the Jayhawks 33 home game win streak. Oklahoma State then only lost by one in double overtime, 68-67 in Stillwater.
You have to believe Oklahoma State and Kansas will be in a race for the Big 12 regular season title all throughout next season. And clearly Marcus Smart staying is a huge advantage for Oklahoma State.
With Marcus Smart staying, Oklahoma State will have all of their returning starters back next year as they look to be early favorites next year in the Big 12 with explosive players like Le'Bryan Nash and Markel Brown, and shooters like Phil Forte.
Of course you can't overlook Kansas next season in the Big 12 with winning 9 straight regular season titles, but Kansas is losing all of their starters from this year as Elijah Johnson, Travis Releford, Jeff Withey, Kevin Young, and Ben McLemore are leaving. Andrew Wiggins still hasn't made a decision yet of where he is going, as he is one of the top recruits from Canada. Wiggins is considering Kentucky, Duke, Kansas, Ohio State, and Florida State.
Oklahoma State split with Kansas last season, defeating Kansas 85-80 as the Cowboys put an end to the Jayhawks 33 home game win streak. Oklahoma State then only lost by one in double overtime, 68-67 in Stillwater.
You have to believe Oklahoma State and Kansas will be in a race for the Big 12 regular season title all throughout next season. And clearly Marcus Smart staying is a huge advantage for Oklahoma State.
Braves Improve to 12-1 on the Season
The Atlanta Braves defeated the Kansas City Royals 6-3 on Tuesday night as the Braves improve to 12-1 on the season, not to mention they are now on a 10 game winning streak.
In tonight's win over the Royals, five of the six Braves runs came off of home runs. Juan Fransisco got the party started with a solo shot in the Bottom of the 2nd. The Braves then were down 2-1 going into the Bottom of the 7th as Juan Fransisco homered again to tie the game at 2, his third of the season. Atlanta then put four runs across the plate in the Bottom of the 8th inning, as Jayson Heyward, Dan Uggla, and Justin Upton all homered in the 8th. Justin Upton hit his 8th home run of the season in the 8th inning last night as the Braves offense continues to soar, defeated the Royals tonight 6-3.
So, just how good is this Braves team? The offense was the story tonight with 5 home runs but so far this season it has been the pitching, Atlanta leads the league in ERA, WHIP, and BAA. Atlanta is currently 11th in quality starts. Tim Hudson, his 14th year in the MLB is 2-0 with 2.50 ERA. Their hitting hasn't been all that bad either as they are 8th in the league in runs, 14th in batting average, 10th in on base percentage, and 6th in slugging percentage.
Justin Upton is on a tear so far this season as he is batting .340 with 8 home runs and 12 RBIs. But what about the rookie catcher Evan Gattis off to the surprising start with 4 home runs and 10 RBIs? This just goes to show that there is now way around this Braves starting lineup or rotation.
Don't look now but the Atlanta Braves already have a 4 and a half game lead in the NL East over a pretty good Washington Nationals team and an improved New York Mets club.
In tonight's win over the Royals, five of the six Braves runs came off of home runs. Juan Fransisco got the party started with a solo shot in the Bottom of the 2nd. The Braves then were down 2-1 going into the Bottom of the 7th as Juan Fransisco homered again to tie the game at 2, his third of the season. Atlanta then put four runs across the plate in the Bottom of the 8th inning, as Jayson Heyward, Dan Uggla, and Justin Upton all homered in the 8th. Justin Upton hit his 8th home run of the season in the 8th inning last night as the Braves offense continues to soar, defeated the Royals tonight 6-3.
So, just how good is this Braves team? The offense was the story tonight with 5 home runs but so far this season it has been the pitching, Atlanta leads the league in ERA, WHIP, and BAA. Atlanta is currently 11th in quality starts. Tim Hudson, his 14th year in the MLB is 2-0 with 2.50 ERA. Their hitting hasn't been all that bad either as they are 8th in the league in runs, 14th in batting average, 10th in on base percentage, and 6th in slugging percentage.
Justin Upton is on a tear so far this season as he is batting .340 with 8 home runs and 12 RBIs. But what about the rookie catcher Evan Gattis off to the surprising start with 4 home runs and 10 RBIs? This just goes to show that there is now way around this Braves starting lineup or rotation.
Don't look now but the Atlanta Braves already have a 4 and a half game lead in the NL East over a pretty good Washington Nationals team and an improved New York Mets club.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Redhawks and Salukis football game to be played at Busch Stadium
This fall, the Southeast Missouri State University Redhawks will play the Southern Illinois University Salukis in St. Louis at Busch Stadium. This game is to be played in September.
The St. Louis Cardinals have announced today that they will hold a press conference to announce this game on Monday at 11 a.m.
This marks the first ever College Football game to be played at Busch Stadium.
The Southern Illinois Salukis are members of the Missouri Valley Conference and the Southeast Missouri Redhaws are members of the Ohio Valley Conference. Southern Illinois defeated Southeast Missouri 35-14 last year in Southern Illinois.
The St. Louis Cardinals have announced today that they will hold a press conference to announce this game on Monday at 11 a.m.
This marks the first ever College Football game to be played at Busch Stadium.
The Southern Illinois Salukis are members of the Missouri Valley Conference and the Southeast Missouri Redhaws are members of the Ohio Valley Conference. Southern Illinois defeated Southeast Missouri 35-14 last year in Southern Illinois.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Blues Extend Win Streak to Six Games With Another Shutout Win
The Blues defeated the Wild 2-0 in a Western Conference battle on Thursday Night as they have extended their win streak to six games. The Blues have now jumped to fifth place in the Western Conference with 48 points as the Wild sit at seventh place.
It was an historic night for the Blues as goaltender Brian Elliot has recorded his third straight shutout during the Blues' six game win streak. This was the first time the Blues recorded three straight road shutouts since the 1968-1969 season and it was the first time since 1988 that the Blues have recorded three straight regulation shutouts.
Roman Polak scored the first goal of the game for the Blues with 10:37 into the first period. That goal by Polak was the first goal from him in 121 games. The Blues gathered one more goal, 9:30 into the third period with a Andy McDonald goal, his fifth of the season.
The Blues improve to 23-14-2 on the season, meanwhile the Wild drop to 22-16-2.
The Blues next game is tomorrow night against the Blue Jackets in Columbus as Columbus sits at 11th place in the Western Conference, but are only three points behind the eighth seeded Red Wings.
Blues vs Blue Jackets drop the puck at 6 CT.
The Wild go on to play Columbus on Saturday Night in Minnesota at 7 CT.
It was an historic night for the Blues as goaltender Brian Elliot has recorded his third straight shutout during the Blues' six game win streak. This was the first time the Blues recorded three straight road shutouts since the 1968-1969 season and it was the first time since 1988 that the Blues have recorded three straight regulation shutouts.
Roman Polak scored the first goal of the game for the Blues with 10:37 into the first period. That goal by Polak was the first goal from him in 121 games. The Blues gathered one more goal, 9:30 into the third period with a Andy McDonald goal, his fifth of the season.
The Blues improve to 23-14-2 on the season, meanwhile the Wild drop to 22-16-2.
The Blues next game is tomorrow night against the Blue Jackets in Columbus as Columbus sits at 11th place in the Western Conference, but are only three points behind the eighth seeded Red Wings.
Blues vs Blue Jackets drop the puck at 6 CT.
The Wild go on to play Columbus on Saturday Night in Minnesota at 7 CT.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Jake Westbrook shines as the Cardinals bats heat up.
Jake Westbrook pitched a complete game shutout in a 10-0 win over the Reds this afternoon. The Cardinals have now won two straight series after losing the series opener to the Diamondbacks in Arizona. Westbrook only gave up 5 hits and struck out 3 batters with his pitch count at 111.
The game was scoreless going into the Bottom of the 5th as Westbrook and Bailey looked like they were headed in for a pitchers duel, but the Cardinals scored 4 runs, all of those runs coming with 2 outs as Jay and Beltran homered in that inning. The offense continued in the Bottom of the 6th with 4 more runs, with homers from Matt Adams and Matt Carpenter, as Carpenter was a triple away from the cycle. The Cardinals racked off 2 more runs in the Bottom of the 8th, as Adams scored in two runs, and even Jake Westbrook delivered with an RBI.
The Cardinals take the series 2-1 against the Reds. It's early in the season, but the Reds and Cardinals are expected to compete for the NL Central Division. Strong pitching and hitting has led the Cardinals in this series. The only concern for the Cardinals this series was the bullpen in Game 1 as they led 4-2 heading into the 7th, but gave up 9 runs in the 9th as the Reds took Game 1 of the series to win 13-4.
The Cardinals have the day off tomorrow as they start a 3 game weekend series with another NL Central rival in the Brewers, as former Cardinal pitcher Kyle Losh is now with Milwaukee.
Friday: 7:15 CT (Gallardo vs Miller)
Saturday: 3:15 CT (Estrada vs Wainwright)
Sunday: 1:15 CT (Peralta vs Garcia)
All games can be seen on FS Midwest or you can listen to the games on KMOX 1120 AM.
The game was scoreless going into the Bottom of the 5th as Westbrook and Bailey looked like they were headed in for a pitchers duel, but the Cardinals scored 4 runs, all of those runs coming with 2 outs as Jay and Beltran homered in that inning. The offense continued in the Bottom of the 6th with 4 more runs, with homers from Matt Adams and Matt Carpenter, as Carpenter was a triple away from the cycle. The Cardinals racked off 2 more runs in the Bottom of the 8th, as Adams scored in two runs, and even Jake Westbrook delivered with an RBI.
The Cardinals take the series 2-1 against the Reds. It's early in the season, but the Reds and Cardinals are expected to compete for the NL Central Division. Strong pitching and hitting has led the Cardinals in this series. The only concern for the Cardinals this series was the bullpen in Game 1 as they led 4-2 heading into the 7th, but gave up 9 runs in the 9th as the Reds took Game 1 of the series to win 13-4.
The Cardinals have the day off tomorrow as they start a 3 game weekend series with another NL Central rival in the Brewers, as former Cardinal pitcher Kyle Losh is now with Milwaukee.
Friday: 7:15 CT (Gallardo vs Miller)
Saturday: 3:15 CT (Estrada vs Wainwright)
Sunday: 1:15 CT (Peralta vs Garcia)
All games can be seen on FS Midwest or you can listen to the games on KMOX 1120 AM.
Phil Pressey declares for NBA Draft
Missouri's junior point guard Phil Pressey has decided to enter the 2013 NBA Draft and forgo his senior season at the University of Missouri. Pressey has signed with the CAA Sports Agency (Creative Artists Agency). According to ESPN's NBA Insider Chad Ford, Phil Pressey is currently projected as a second round draft pick, or undrafted. Pressey is ranked 81 out of 100 in Chad Ford's draft prospects.
With his time at the University of Missouri, Phil Pressey became Missouri's all time assist and steals leader. Pressey's inconsistency came into play a lot in his last season at Mizzou, as he averaged about 3.5 turnovers a game and failed to contribute in late game situations, most notably UCLA, LSU, Texas A&M and Arkansas.
The outlook on the Missouri Basketball program next year will only have one returning starter next year in sophomore Jabari Brown. Senior guard Earnest Ross will be back and Tulsa transfer Jordan Clarskon is eligible after sitting out this season.
Missouri freshmen Wes Clark is expected to be the Tiger's new point guard to fill in as Phil Pressey declares for the NBA Draft.
Phil Pressey's career at Missouri is now over. How will the future look for Missouri Basketball? We'll wait and see.
With his time at the University of Missouri, Phil Pressey became Missouri's all time assist and steals leader. Pressey's inconsistency came into play a lot in his last season at Mizzou, as he averaged about 3.5 turnovers a game and failed to contribute in late game situations, most notably UCLA, LSU, Texas A&M and Arkansas.
The outlook on the Missouri Basketball program next year will only have one returning starter next year in sophomore Jabari Brown. Senior guard Earnest Ross will be back and Tulsa transfer Jordan Clarskon is eligible after sitting out this season.
Missouri freshmen Wes Clark is expected to be the Tiger's new point guard to fill in as Phil Pressey declares for the NBA Draft.
Phil Pressey's career at Missouri is now over. How will the future look for Missouri Basketball? We'll wait and see.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
National Championship Recap
Michigan and Louisville played the last game of the College Basketball season last night and it was a fitting end as an unbelievable College Basketball season is in the books. Louisville defeated Michigan 82-76 to win the National Championship as Rick Pitino captured his elusive title, becoming the first coach to win a National Championship at two schools, Kentucky in 1996 and now Louisville this year. You can't have a better week than Rick Pitino had, winning a National Championship, being elected into the College Basketball Hall of Fame, and his son, Richard Pitino got the head coaching job at Minnesota, after former Kentucky head coach Tubby Smith was fired. Pitino's horse is also heading to the Kentucky Derby and he's also getting a tattoo. Louisville's National Championship brings two straight National Championships to the state of Kentucky as the Kentucky Wildcats won it last year behind John Calipari. Louisville's run to a National Championship was led with emotion, as guard Kevin Ware suffered a broken leg in their Elite 8 game against Duke. This year's National Championship showed a lot of heart from Louisville, as nothing seemed to stop them as they finished their storied year with 15 straight wins. After the game, Pitino said that he had the 13 toughest guys he ever coached.
AP and Naismith Player of the Year, Trey Burke and Michigan fell short of a National Championship. Spike Albrecht had an incredible first half off the bench as he was one of the unsung heroes for Michigan, as he had 17 of Michigan's 33 points at the half. But in the end, Louisville was too much with the explosive guard play with Peyton Siva and the hot shooting of Luke Hancock, who carried Louisville with 22 points.
Another season of College Basketball is in the books, and this was one to be remembered with upsets, fantastic finishes, and history happening in this year's NCAA Tournament with a 15 seed making it into the Sweet 16, thank you for the ride Florida Gulf Coast. But Louisville was the team to beat in this year's tournament, and Rick Pitino has captured an historic title. This incredible season is in the books, what will next year bring?
AP and Naismith Player of the Year, Trey Burke and Michigan fell short of a National Championship. Spike Albrecht had an incredible first half off the bench as he was one of the unsung heroes for Michigan, as he had 17 of Michigan's 33 points at the half. But in the end, Louisville was too much with the explosive guard play with Peyton Siva and the hot shooting of Luke Hancock, who carried Louisville with 22 points.
Another season of College Basketball is in the books, and this was one to be remembered with upsets, fantastic finishes, and history happening in this year's NCAA Tournament with a 15 seed making it into the Sweet 16, thank you for the ride Florida Gulf Coast. But Louisville was the team to beat in this year's tournament, and Rick Pitino has captured an historic title. This incredible season is in the books, what will next year bring?
Monday, April 8, 2013
Opening Day in St. Louis
Opening Day in St. Louis is like a National Holiday as the beloved St. Louis Cardinals begin another season with high expectations in the best baseball city in America. The Cardinals will begin their home opener with an NL Central battle with the Cincinnati Reds, which these two teams are expected to be in the NL Central race all throughout the season.
One Cardinal icon who will be missed during the Opening Day festivities will be Stan Musial, the greatest Cardinal ever as he passed away back on January 19th. The Cardinals will be wearing Stan Musial batches on their jerseys all season long with the number 6 and Musial's signature. Stan Musial Night will be held on April 12th. Stan The Man will most certainly be missed during the Opening Day Ceremony.
Jaime Garcia takes the mound for the Cardinals today as he faces off against Mat Latos, who starts for the Reds. Cardinals vs Reds at 3:15 CT, you can watch the game on FSN Midwest or listen to KMOX 1120.
It's Opening Day in St. Louis as the best fans in baseball are ready for in what could be a big season for the Cardinals.
One Cardinal icon who will be missed during the Opening Day festivities will be Stan Musial, the greatest Cardinal ever as he passed away back on January 19th. The Cardinals will be wearing Stan Musial batches on their jerseys all season long with the number 6 and Musial's signature. Stan Musial Night will be held on April 12th. Stan The Man will most certainly be missed during the Opening Day Ceremony.
Jaime Garcia takes the mound for the Cardinals today as he faces off against Mat Latos, who starts for the Reds. Cardinals vs Reds at 3:15 CT, you can watch the game on FSN Midwest or listen to KMOX 1120.
It's Opening Day in St. Louis as the best fans in baseball are ready for in what could be a big season for the Cardinals.
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Final Four Recap, National Championship Preview
Two unbelievable games took center stage in the College basketball world as the city of Atlanta took part in two classic Final Four games.
First off 9 seeded Wichita State took on 1 seeded Louisville as the Shockers looked ready to shock the College basketball world looking to accomplish what Butler did a couple years back. The Shockers went into this game not looking intimidated as they already beat 1 seeded Gonzaga and 2 seeded Ohio State to get to this Final Four. Wichita State went into halftime with a 26-25 lead over the favorite Louisville. Wichita State led by many as 12 points with 13 minutes to go, but Rick Pitino's Louisville team was ready to put on a big run, and they did just that. Louisville took a 56-55 lead in the second half with huge threes by Luke Hancock as this game was ready to go down to the wire. With 2:09 to go, once again it was Hancock that made a huge three and Louisville took a 65-60 lead. With the game coming down to the final seconds, Wichita State was down 70-68 as Luke Hancock went to the line with eight seconds left. Hancock made 1 of 2 as Wichita State's Ryan Baker looked to have the rebound with 6 seconds left as the game could have come down to one last shot, but it was a jump ball call and the possession arrow favorited Louisville. Russ Smith then hit a big free throw to ice the game, who missed his first four free throws earlier in the game as Louisville clinches a spot in the National Championship game with a 72-68 win over Wichita State in a thrilling game. Luke Hancock was the player of the game for Louisville who had 20 points and went 3-5 from three. Cleanthony Early had 24 points for Wichita State.
The second game was no sleeper either as Michigan and Syracuse battled it out for the final spot in the National Championship game. This was the first time ever two 4 seeds played in NCAA Tournament history. This game was highlighted by the start point guards, Trey Burke going up against Michael Carter Williams. Michigan came out firing as Trey Burke, Mitch McGary, and Tim Hardaway Jr. were explosive as the Wolverines took a 36-25 lead into the half as Syracuse couldn't get anything going from Michael Carter Williams and Michigan kept attacking Syracuse's 2-3 zone. The second half was different as C.J. Fair was impressive scoring 22 points for the Orange as Syracuse kept climbing back into the game. Michigan led 57-53 in the final 50 seconds as Mitch McGary went to the line but McGary missed three huge free throws, then James Southerland made a critical three point shot to get the game within one. Trey Burke went to the line with 28 seconds left, only making one as Michigan led 58-56. With 19 seconds left, Brandon Triche drove to the basket, but was called for a questionable charge in what looked to be a block on Michigan. Syracuse still had a chance to win as Michigan led 59-56 with 15 seconds left. Trevor Cooney missed a three for Syracuse with 6 seconds left as Michigan prevailed 61-56. Mitch McGary was the player of the game for Michigan with 10 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists. C.J. Fair led Syracuse with 22 points.
So, the National Championship game is set as the College basketball season is coming to an end in Atlanta. It will be Louisville vs Michigan, the best defensive team against the best offensive team as we're set for a great one to conclude this year's NCAA Tournament. We've had two great Final Four game tonight and there would be no better way to end this College basketball season with a fantastic finish between Louisville and Michigan. A National Championship will be crowned on Monday Night, tune in to CBS at 8:30 CT.
First off 9 seeded Wichita State took on 1 seeded Louisville as the Shockers looked ready to shock the College basketball world looking to accomplish what Butler did a couple years back. The Shockers went into this game not looking intimidated as they already beat 1 seeded Gonzaga and 2 seeded Ohio State to get to this Final Four. Wichita State went into halftime with a 26-25 lead over the favorite Louisville. Wichita State led by many as 12 points with 13 minutes to go, but Rick Pitino's Louisville team was ready to put on a big run, and they did just that. Louisville took a 56-55 lead in the second half with huge threes by Luke Hancock as this game was ready to go down to the wire. With 2:09 to go, once again it was Hancock that made a huge three and Louisville took a 65-60 lead. With the game coming down to the final seconds, Wichita State was down 70-68 as Luke Hancock went to the line with eight seconds left. Hancock made 1 of 2 as Wichita State's Ryan Baker looked to have the rebound with 6 seconds left as the game could have come down to one last shot, but it was a jump ball call and the possession arrow favorited Louisville. Russ Smith then hit a big free throw to ice the game, who missed his first four free throws earlier in the game as Louisville clinches a spot in the National Championship game with a 72-68 win over Wichita State in a thrilling game. Luke Hancock was the player of the game for Louisville who had 20 points and went 3-5 from three. Cleanthony Early had 24 points for Wichita State.
The second game was no sleeper either as Michigan and Syracuse battled it out for the final spot in the National Championship game. This was the first time ever two 4 seeds played in NCAA Tournament history. This game was highlighted by the start point guards, Trey Burke going up against Michael Carter Williams. Michigan came out firing as Trey Burke, Mitch McGary, and Tim Hardaway Jr. were explosive as the Wolverines took a 36-25 lead into the half as Syracuse couldn't get anything going from Michael Carter Williams and Michigan kept attacking Syracuse's 2-3 zone. The second half was different as C.J. Fair was impressive scoring 22 points for the Orange as Syracuse kept climbing back into the game. Michigan led 57-53 in the final 50 seconds as Mitch McGary went to the line but McGary missed three huge free throws, then James Southerland made a critical three point shot to get the game within one. Trey Burke went to the line with 28 seconds left, only making one as Michigan led 58-56. With 19 seconds left, Brandon Triche drove to the basket, but was called for a questionable charge in what looked to be a block on Michigan. Syracuse still had a chance to win as Michigan led 59-56 with 15 seconds left. Trevor Cooney missed a three for Syracuse with 6 seconds left as Michigan prevailed 61-56. Mitch McGary was the player of the game for Michigan with 10 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists. C.J. Fair led Syracuse with 22 points.
So, the National Championship game is set as the College basketball season is coming to an end in Atlanta. It will be Louisville vs Michigan, the best defensive team against the best offensive team as we're set for a great one to conclude this year's NCAA Tournament. We've had two great Final Four game tonight and there would be no better way to end this College basketball season with a fantastic finish between Louisville and Michigan. A National Championship will be crowned on Monday Night, tune in to CBS at 8:30 CT.
Friday, April 5, 2013
Final Four Preview
It all comes down to this. Louisville, Wichita State, Michigan, and Syracuse highlight the Final Four in Atlanta as this year's March Madness tournament is coming down to a thrilling end. A 1 seed, Cinderella 9 seed, and two 4 seeds battle it out for a chance at a National Championship. If you're a College Basketball fan, there's no better way to end the season with an enticing Final Four.
Louisville vs Wichita State tip it off around 6 ET on CBS as the Final Four gets underway. Louisville is on a mission, winners of 14 straight with arguably the best back court in the nation, led by Russ Smith and Peyton Siva. Louisville is coming off an Elite 8 win over Duke as the Cardinals are playing with heavy hearts after Kevin Ware suffered a gruesome and horrific broken leg injury in an 85-63 win over the Blue Devils. Kevin Ware will travel is with the team in Atlanta. Meanwhile, Wichita State is this year's underdog, this year's VCU and Butler. They are called the Shockers for a reason. Wichita State has 4 straight wins coming into this Final Four match up, most notably with wins over #1 seed Gonzaga and #2 seed Ohio State. Wichita State has shown why the Missouri Valley Conference is one of the nation's elite in the mid major conferences. Wichita State is led by Carl Hall and Malcom Armstead. Players like Cleanthony Early and Fred Van Vleete have given the Shockers a spark off this bench in this tournament. Wichita State is no easy task for Louisville, but I'm sure Louisville knows what's ahead of them. Nothing is stopping Louisville right now.
Prediction: Louisville takes care of Wichita State in a close one, 73-65.
Michigan and Syracuse will tip off about 40 minutes after Louisville and Wichita State on CBS. It's the battle of the four seeds, this is the first time two teams are playing each other as four seeds in NCAA Tournament history. Welcome to the battle of the point guards also. Trey Burke vs Michael Carter Williams. Syracuse, winners of four straight, defeated #1 seed Indiana in the Sweet 16 and #3 seed Marquette in the Elite 8 in a Big East battle. Syracuse's zone defense has been impressive under Jim Boeheim, as their most points allowed in this NCAA Tournament is only 60 to California. Meanwhile, Michigan is led by their AP player of the year point guard in Trey Burke, as he led Michigan in their stunning comeback in the Sweet 16 against Kansas, as Michigan prevailed 87-85 in OT. Michigan then went on to dominate Florida, 79-59 in the Elite 8.
Prediction: Syracuse's 2-3 zone defense will be too much for Michigan's speed. Syracuse pulls it out in the end, winning 65-60.
In the end, it will be Louisville and Syracuse battling it out for a National Championship as it will finally be Syracuse's last Big East match up. Who says the Big East doesn't have to end?
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Biggest win of the season for the Blues
The Blues captured a 4-3 shootout win on the road in Chicago as they battled their rival Blackhawks in a thrilling game with high magnitude. Before the game, the Blues sat at 9th place in the Western Conference, only one spot behind 8th place, last playoff spot in the Western Conference.
The Blues drew blood first with a late first period goal from Adam Cracknell as Cracknell scored his first of the season, just getting called up from Peoria. The Blues took a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission. The second period would be a different story as the Blackhawks scored two goals in the second period to take a 2-1 lead. Chicago goals came from Jonathan Toews and Brandon Saad. This game featured a lot of lead changes, and that's exactly what happened in the third period. Once again, it was Adam Cracknell scoring his second goal of the season on a breakaway to tie the game at two beating Corey Crawford. The Blues then regained the lead with a goal by David Backes, his first goal since 15 games ago. Just when you think the Blues had it in the bag, the Blackhawks score late in the third period as Viktor Stalberg tied the game up at three and these rivals had to battle it out into overtime.
No goals were scored in the overtime period, so these passionate Blues and Blackhawks fans had to anxiously await in a shootout. Chicago and St. Louis both scored twice in the first and second rounds in the shootout, Blackhawks scoring with Toews and Kane, Blues scoring with Stewart and McDonald. Shattenkirk finally ended it with a goal to beat Corey Crawford and the Blues survived in Chicago wit a 4-3 shootout win. The Blues improved to (19-14-2) on the season as they moved up into the 8th place spot in the Western Conference with 40 points. Chicago drops to (27-5-4) as they still sit atop first place in the Western Conference with 58 points. This was the Blues first win in Chicago since February 3rd of 2010 as they were 0-4-4 since then.
The Blues will take on the Columbus Blue Jackets tomorrow night at Scottrade Center at 7 CT. The game can be seen on FSN Midwest or you can listen to it on KMOX 1120.
The Blackhawks will take on the Nashville Predators on Saturday at 2 CT in Nashville.
The Blues drew blood first with a late first period goal from Adam Cracknell as Cracknell scored his first of the season, just getting called up from Peoria. The Blues took a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission. The second period would be a different story as the Blackhawks scored two goals in the second period to take a 2-1 lead. Chicago goals came from Jonathan Toews and Brandon Saad. This game featured a lot of lead changes, and that's exactly what happened in the third period. Once again, it was Adam Cracknell scoring his second goal of the season on a breakaway to tie the game at two beating Corey Crawford. The Blues then regained the lead with a goal by David Backes, his first goal since 15 games ago. Just when you think the Blues had it in the bag, the Blackhawks score late in the third period as Viktor Stalberg tied the game up at three and these rivals had to battle it out into overtime.
No goals were scored in the overtime period, so these passionate Blues and Blackhawks fans had to anxiously await in a shootout. Chicago and St. Louis both scored twice in the first and second rounds in the shootout, Blackhawks scoring with Toews and Kane, Blues scoring with Stewart and McDonald. Shattenkirk finally ended it with a goal to beat Corey Crawford and the Blues survived in Chicago wit a 4-3 shootout win. The Blues improved to (19-14-2) on the season as they moved up into the 8th place spot in the Western Conference with 40 points. Chicago drops to (27-5-4) as they still sit atop first place in the Western Conference with 58 points. This was the Blues first win in Chicago since February 3rd of 2010 as they were 0-4-4 since then.
The Blues will take on the Columbus Blue Jackets tomorrow night at Scottrade Center at 7 CT. The game can be seen on FSN Midwest or you can listen to it on KMOX 1120.
The Blackhawks will take on the Nashville Predators on Saturday at 2 CT in Nashville.
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