Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Friday, July 13, 2012
Saturday, July 7, 2012
The Showdown: Sparks take the fight out of Lynx - by Nick Hamilton
After suffering a disparaging three game losing streak, the Los Angeles Sparks were determined to win and sent a message to the World Champs that their time is now by defeating the Minnesota Lynx 96-90 on Thursday.
Sparks guard Kristi Toliver was remarkable scoring 29 points, going 6-for-6 from the 3 point line, along with MVP candidate Candace Parker grabbing a double-double with 28 points and 13 rebounds.
Candace Parker and the L.A. Sparks set the tempo early from the opening tip, with sense of not only urgency but intensity. Parker dominated the first quarter, driving and creating shot opportunities by scoring 11 points and having an amazing three three-point plays. Toliver also aggressively scored 11 points to end the first quarter on a 13-2 run, and led 24-21.
The Sparks defense was also impressive as they held Rookie of The Year Maya Moore to zero points in the first quarter. Moore struggled offensively as she tried to locate her rhythm.
Lynx coach Cheryl Reeves benched Moore to begin the second quarter, which only aided the Sparks offensive fury. Parker capitalized on Moore's absence as he continued to knock down key shot and grab rebounds, and after back to back 3 pointers by Toliver, the Sparks lead has increased by nine points, forcing the Lynx to call timeout. With Moore back in the game, Lynx Simone Augustus hit a big three pointer that kept the Lynx in the game. While Parker sat on the bench, and key misses from the Sparks, Maya Moore finally found her rhythm and hit a three pointer, which followed by Augustus who hit another 3 pointer, that made the Sparks call a much needed timeout. Lynx went on a 9-2 run, and only were down 36-34.
The Sparks seemed to settle down as they went inside with Jantel Lavender and rookie Nneka Ogwumike, for which the Lynx had no answer for. Sparks went on a 6-0 run to end the half ahead 49-43 over the Lynx.
In third quarter the Sparks blew the doors off Staples Center as they built a lead as high as 18 points over the World champions. And thanks to free throws by Toliver, headed into the fourth quarter with a 75-57 lead. The Sparks seemed to be in complete control in the fourth quarter especially when April Sykes hit the 3 point dagger that should've sealed the deal with 6:54 left in the game. Maya Moore hit a key 3 pointer that sparked a 15-2 run by the Lynx that trimmed the Sparks to just six points. Candice Wiggins also hit a 3 pointer along with Moore who continued to lead the charge back with a key basket with just 2:30 left. but just seconds later Maya Moore picked up her sixth foul and exited the game with 14 points.
Both Parker and Toliver were determined to not let the lead slip away as they hit 10 free throws in the last 2 minutes to seal the deal and take the victory over the Lynx 96-90.
This was the second time that the Lynx allowed a team to score more than 90 points this season, on back to back road games.
An elated Candace Parker spoke about the victory, "It was nice to come out and not be down 4 to 22 or 4 to 19. We started with intensity. That really set the tone early. We were ready to help. We helped the helper. We had a defensive plan and we really stuck with it through whole game."
Nneka Ogwumike finished with 12 points and 7 rebounds, along with Alana Beard who finished with 10 points and 4 assist.
On the other side of the ball Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve talked about their performance along with Parker and Toliver's. "I thought the whole game was not a good one for us. They didn't have to get their third, fourth options in their offense. Everything was first or second option. They had two players that I thought lit us up. Toliver and Parker had everything they wanted and it was an easy game for them. They made our defense just look silly."
Candice Wiggins finished with 11 points, and Simone Augustus finished with 18 points and 3 assist.
The Sparks have a tough schedule with home back to back games against the Seattle Storm and the Atlanta Dream before they hit the road for two games to end the first half of the season.
Friday, July 6, 2012
NFL All-Access brings L.A. closer to Football - by Nick Hamilton
After NFL Commissioner Roger Godell made a encouraging announcement stating that the NFL in Los Angeles are steps closer to becoming reality. Godell was in high spirits and very supportive of football returning to L.A.
In the wake of that announcement, the NFL All-Access Event is also celebrating its 10th Anniversary at the historic Rose Bowl near Los Angeles, in a city that hasn’t had a professional team in almost 18 years. Its remarkable how the fans still want the football in the city of Los Angeles, along with a much anticipated Super Bowl to follow.
The person responsible for keeping their appetite's wet for the game of football is the LASEC (Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission) President Kathryn Schloessman.
I had the great fortune of sitting down with Kathy Schloessman as we discussed the 10th Anniversary, how NFL All-Access began, and how close is Los Angeles to getting an NFL team again.
Nick Hamilton (NH): Hello Kathy Schloessman how are you today?
Kathy Schloessman (KS): I'm fine, how are you?
NH: I'm great, thank you for joining me, with the NFL having an 18 year drought in Los Angeles, what inspired you to create and bring NFL All-Access to the fans?
KS: What inspired me is that I'm a huge NFL fan first and foremost. Then what happened was reporter Andrea Kramer [NBC Football Night In America reporter] approached me and informed me about these football events called NFL 101 in various cities. Andrea attended one in Denver and told me why we needed one in Los Angeles for the fans. I told her there is no team in L.A., but its for the fans so I sent an email to the NFL head of events Jim Steeg. Steeg ran the Super Bowl events for many years, and actually emailed me back to tell me to go for it. And from that point the NFL All-Access was born.
NH: What does it mean for LASEC to host the NFL All-Access Event 10 years later?
KS: Honestly we were kind of surprised to be hosting it 10 years later. We thought we would help out and continued the event until a team arrived. Still surprised we in Los Angeles are still without a team, yet not surprised at the high level of interest in the NFL from fans. We're working diligently to help bring a team back here to the city. It's the number one sport, it's a marketing machine, and people of all ages love this event as well as their football.
NH: What can fans, even those who are attending for the first time from NFL All-Access Event?
KS: It's so many different facets to this event, if you're a casual or advit fan, no matter what team you support, you're going to have a great time. Even if you're not a big fan, how cool is it to be on the field of the Rose Bowl on a summer night. Fans have the opportunity to kick field goals, throw passes, and run routes. Doing something most fans don't get to do normally, which is a great experience. This event also has amazing players, coaches, and NFL insiders that we change every year. Also after a tasty dinner (presented by Wolfgang Puck Catering), everyone is treated to an All-Access panel discussion that features M.C. Andrea Kramer. We also have a special one-on-one session with Al Michaels, NBC legendary sportscaster with an amazing voice. We get the opportunity to hear his exclusive perspective on the NFL. That's not something just anyone is going to see at any other event. We'll also have an in depth panel discussion with NFL players such as Bucs QB Josh Freeman, Baltimore Ravens Terrell Suggs, Titans QB Matt Hasselback, and NFL on FOX Insider Jay Glazer who will give everyone insight on what to look forward to this season.
NH: How much can we expect football to seriously return to L.A., with the efforts of AEG and the Majestic Group involved?
KS: The two groups with the two possible stadium options are Ed Roski and his City Of Industry location and of course [AEG] Farmers Field. Two great amazing persistent groups going after the possibility of the NFL is great. It gives us alot better shot to get a team here in Los Angeles. I'm always optimistic because I believe the team owners who are making a fortune and the industry is doing so well that it has to bother them to not have a team in L.A. and missing out on Super Bowls as well.
L.A. is the best place for the NFL, it's the most profitable and has the best weather.
NH: What teams will be represented at All-Access this year?
KS: The Oakland Raiders and the San Diego Chargers who are always with us, will be having a fan fest fest on the field. These two teams still have huge fan bases in Los Angeles despite their current locations. By not having a team in L.A., everyone has a team from across the country. So we'll also have a few other guest like Hall Of Famer Marshall Faulk, and other guest that we'll be announcing very soon.
NH: Lastly, where do you see NFL All-Access five years from now?
KS: Well our mission whether we have a team to watch or not on Sunday's is to bring the best sports and entertainment events to the city of Los Angeles. Events that put money into the city, that also increases tourism. We want the big stuff that would ultimately be a Super Bowl to the city with a revenue somewhere between $350-$450 million of impact on a city. Which is very huge for the NFL and the city of Los Angeles. We've got everything else going, and it's not like L.A. isn't doing well, but it wouldn't hurt to have the Super Bowl back here either.
We remind the city leaders and through our sponsors do not forget the mission for the city, and stress the financial benefits which are very import. So we look to be here for a long while.
NH: Thank you so much Ms. Schloessman for your time, really appreciate it, and we'll see at the event on July 12th.
KS: Thank you, see you all on July 12th, have a great day.
After attending this event last year, the LASEC is a first class organization, and the 10th Anniversary should be absolutely spectacular.
The NFL All-Access event is a one in a lifetime event and well worth the time and having an experience that you will never forget for years to come.
Several levels of participation are available and individual tickets are on sale for $500 each.
Visit www.lasec.net or call (213) 236-2347 for more information on the event and purchasing tickets.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Sparks vs. Shock Preview
The last time the Tulsa Shock came into Staples Center they almost shocked the Los Angeles Sparks by attempting to take a victory. With just five seconds left in regulation, guard Kristi Toliver pushed the ball down the floor and nailed the game winning three pointer.
This relentless team lead by MVP candidate Candace Parker, and Head Coach Carol Ross are determined to make sure they fight to the end.
The Shock ended a league record 15 game losing streak this past Sunday by defeating the Phoenix Mercury 87-75. Tulsa will attempt to set another two game winning streak at the hands of the Los Angeles Sparks who happen to be defeated at home (5-0). The Sparks are in second place in the Western Conference behind league best Minnesota Lynx.
The Sparks coming off a great home victory against an inferior Washington Mystics destroying them 101-70. Rookie Nneka Ogwumike lead all scorers with 24 points and 7 rebounds fresh from her return from her college graduation at Stanford, that caused her to miss the game against San Antonio.
The Sparks must not commit turnovers against the Shock as they did in their prevent meeting with a record 28 turnovers, along with not allowing second chance opportunities, if they expect to win.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Chargers amped for upcoming season - By Nick Hamilton
On a beautiful, warm sunny day at the Chargers facility, the team took the field in various offensive and defense drill across the field. Led by Takeo Spikes who looked much improved, along with the defense who was hard hitting, sharp, and ready to take on any team in the NFL right now. The secondary that includes Quinton Jammer who is coming off a bad season, looked improved, relaxed, and more confident in his abilities at corner. Jammer has alot of work ahead of him, however the determination to silence his critics and showcase to the Chargers and the rest of the NFL that he has what it takes to be a solid pillar at the corner position seemed to be his motivator. Only time will reveal exactly what Jammer has left in him.
Offensively, it was great to see Philip Rivers connect with new acquired former New Orleans Saints wide receiver Robert Meachem, who ran very crisp routes. From my vantage point, it appeared as though Meachem and Rivers had played for years. Even though he had a drop pass and ran a busted route, the afternoon was successful for him. Meachem described catching passes from quarterback Drew Brees and now from Philip Rivers, "they both take control of the huddle. Thye're both coaches on the field making sure everyone is lined up correctly, and they want perfection."
I also witness the great combo of Rivers airing it out to veteran wide receiver Antonio Gates who looked healthy and had a spring in his step on just about every play on the field. He caught some amazing passes from Rivers that made this reporter anticipate watching him this coming season even more. The Chargers also acquired from their division rival former Broncos speedy receiver Eddie Royal, who looked pretty good, yet is still adjusting to the system with his routes. On shorter routes Royal looked amazing, and with time this high football IQ receiver is going cause matchup problems for several defenses across the NFL.
It's all about timing and rhythm, and right now in OTA's is the opportunity to perfect that, according to Rivers which happens to be their focus. "I think it's going good, it's a constant build, you want to continue to progress everyday, and we've done that. The guys we've brought in here, in addition to the ones we already have, it's a great group." Rivers is a natural born leader, even on the sidelines, he can been seen observing, coaching, and when he didn't connect on the right plays, showed discuss at times when the played weren't executed correctly.
"We've got to win our division, and find a way to get in. History has proven it, if you get in you have a chance", Rivers speaking about the Chargers playoff goals.
A familiar face returned to the Charger roster as backup quarterback Charlie Whitehurst showcased some of his skills at the position. Whitehurst launched a 55 yard pass to wide receiver Richard Goodman, who finished the play with a spectacular one arm catch. Goodman displayed lots of breakaway speed, which if he continued to display that, could prove to be a outstanding asset in the regular season. Rivers will have no shortage of weapons to throw to that also include former San Diego State WR Vincent Brown, and Malcolm Floyd. Rivers is still optimistic about his offensive line, who has a huge gap to fill with the loss of veteran guard Kris Dielman who retired last year due to a concussion he suffered last season. In addition to suffering a seizure on the team plane, that caused him to miss the rest of the season, Dielman decided to retire from the game of football to prevent risking any further head injuries.
The AFC West will not be easy to win this year, especially with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, and the new revamped division champs from a year ago, the Denver Broncos and the addition of Peyton Manning, the Chargers have their work cut out for them. With a determined Philip Rivers leading the charge, not only will it be a dog fight, yet if the Chargers can remain healthy, and in sync with the offensive genius known as head coach Norv Turner, this Charger team can and will win their division. The offensive line has to keep Rivers protected and upright in order to win and make it to the playoffs this season. This team has time correct any mistakes, timing issues, and make adjustments before the regular season begins. It should be a very exciting year for the Chargers, the organization, and their faithful fans in San Diego and around the globe.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Rookie Gets Sparks Win Over Storm
The Los Angeles Sparks have been treading on thin ice, since the last buzzer beater victory gift given by Kristi Toliver against the inferior Tulsa Shock. The hero this time was none other than the Rookie Of The Month and #1 draft pick Nneka Ogwumike.
The Sparks started off slow as the Player Of The Month Candace Parker had nine points that included a 3 pointer at the end of the 1st quarter that gave the Sparks the narrow 16-15 lead over the Seattle Storm. As Coach Carol Ross continued with nifty rotations in the second quarter, the Storm's Katie Smith was on fire, as she made her third 3 pointer in the quarter right before the half that gave the Storm the tight 34-32 lead.
The Sparks defense dwindled in the second quarter along with their intensity, and halftime adjustments had to be made especially with them being held to a dismal 34 percent shooting in the first half.
In the third quarter, as the Storm looked to improve upon their first half performance, Sparks' Nneka Ogwumike 's shot selection improved. Kristi Toliver was aggressive and converted at the foul line and created opportunities to score for herself along with getting her teammates involved more.
Still down by 6 points headed into the fourth quarter, the Sparks knew it was now or never, and who would end up being the unsung hero this time? Would be it be Toliver who skillfully made the game winning three pointer against Tulsa last Tuesday night or would someone else step up. Toliver continued to get the best of Seattle's Sue Bird both offensively and defensively.
The Storm had a 60-53 lead with four minutes remaining. The Sparks then went on a 10-0 run started by Ogwumike's amazing reverse layup. Parker scored inside off a great Toliver assist and also got one of her three blocks on the night in that run.
However Katie Smith who led Seattle with an impressive 19 points would not go away quietly, as she hit a three pointer with 35 seconds left to tie the game at 63.
Toliver would not be outdone as she aggressively went to the basket dropping in the left handed shot with about 12 seconds left that gave the Sparks the 65-63. Seattle's Camille Little responded with a rebound and putback shot to tie the game again at 65.
At this point the Seattle Storm had a foul to give but for some reason didn't utilize it.
Now of course the game winning plan is always drawn up for the team's superstar, just like it would be for Wade, Kobe, or Lebron, and this play was no different. The play called for Parker, however Alana Beard was unable to find her and Ogwumike got the ball. Ogwumike took the ball left strongly over the towering Ann Wauters for the game winner as the Sparks defeated the Storm 67-65. Ogwumike was mobbed by her teammates in celebration on the court.
Nneka Ogwumike talked about her game winning shot, "I was very concerned about the outcome. But in that kind of moment, dimensions, the geometrics of everything really kind of fall into place and it's about getting the ball and doing it." Ogwumike finished with a quiet night 10 points, on 3 of 9 shooting, but the last shot was heard loudly around Staples Center and will be remembered by the Seattle Storm.
Kristi Toliver finished with 23 points, 7 assist, and Candace Parker had another double-double with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
The game winner was more painful for Seattle than forgetting about the foul to give.
A disappointed Storm team dropped to 1-4 on the season, and the loss gave the Sparks the tie breaker in the season series.
Tina Thompson spoke about the heart breaking loss, "Losses are tough, period, but especially the ones that are last second. It stings a little bit because you think about the opportunities that we had to change the outcome."
Seattle Head Coach Brian Agler spoke about the game winning shot, "Nneka hit a hell of a shot. Ann [Wauters] was right on her. She sort of shot it around Ann's arm."
The Sparks are a best 5-1 on the season, and even though they have a great 1-2 combo in Toliver and Parker, one can not forget about the power and tenacity of rookie Nneka Ogwumike. She's a huge reason why the Sparks are 5-1.
I also had an opportunity to speak with injured guard Sharnee Zoll, who is out with an ACL injury. She is scheduled to have surgery on Monday and begin her rehab assignment just 1 week after. According to doctors, her knee rehab will take anywhere from 4-6 months.
"Just taking it day by day, I have a great support system. I have God in my life. I'm told I'll start running after 4 months and basketball about 6 months, so I'm very hopeful."
After this victory the Los Angeles Sparks prepare to take on the Phoenix Mercury on Friday night at Staples Center.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
NFLPA Takes Over Los Angeles
It began on Friday afternoon at the historic UCLA Campus where a flag football game would be played between entertainers, current and former football players, with hundreds of fans in attendance. Also the 2012 Rookie class would be unveiled up close and personal for fans to see sporting their new team jerseys.
Fans were excited, along with the Rookies, and I had a great opportunity to speak with several rookies, former players, entertainers about this event and many other ventures they are involved in. I asked Cleveland Browns QB Brandon Weeden what has the entire NFL experience been like for you, "It's been a roller coaster, the whole draft process is so long. After the draft, you finally get a chance to throw a helmet on and go to mini-camp, its fun and looking forward to whats coming up in the months ahead."
"Off the field he's a great guy, hard worker," Weeden speaking about his teammate RB Trent Richardson. "We all saw we did he did at Alabama, he's a freak. He's a triple threat, he can run, catch the ball out of the back field, and pass the ball. He's a great player."
Its looks like Cleveland future has changed for the better, they'll have a tall task this season going up against the likes of Baltimore, Pittsburgh and other teams.
Also had the opportunity to speak with the Washington Redskins 1st round draft selection Robert Griffin III aka RGIII about the highlights of his NFL experience. "Besides seeing and talking to Doug Flute, being on David Letterman, Jay Leno, meeting President Obama was a highlight as well." Griffin went on to say about playing in Washington D.C., "its means alot to play there. It's called Chocolate City for a reason, and they [fans] have a quarterback that they can latch on to. I'm very proud about that and the city. I'm looking to bring excitement to the team as well, they don't draft boring players."
I know Washington D.C. along with the NFL, are ready for the RGIII invasion taking place this season at Fed Ex Field.
The flag football game was a success, seeing some NFL greats like Javon Kearse, Roger Craig, Philadelphia Eagles WR DeSean Jackson who coached one of the teams was also very excited and welcomed the fans support by signing autographs and giving out handshakes to all.
On Saturday night I attended an exclusive star studded Red Carpet and party in Hollywood, California at Colony. I spoke to former Ohio State WR now Houston Texan DiVier Posey on what does it mean to be drafted by Houston. "Its great, looking on the roster and seeing all the veteran's you get an opportunity to learn from like Andre Johnson and others. They have a great coaching staff, great organization, happy to be in Houston." Posey added " It's priceless to play along side someone like Andre Johnson, amazing."
I also spoke to former Tennessee Titans running back Eddie George, who actually served as the party's DJ, and also added he looked forward to speaking to the rookies and offering them advice to prepare them for the NFL. Also in attendance was actor and Dancing With Stars winner J.R. Martinez, The First and Only Black Female Ski Racer in Olympic History Seba Johnson, TDE/ Aftermath artist Kendrick Lamar. He stopped by to talk about his involvement with the NFLPA event, "I'm looking to get in the league, I have the talent," as he said laughing. No I'm looking forward to performing tonight. Later on I'll be touring and doing shows with Wiz Khalifah, ScHoolboy Q, and others, it's going being cool. The Under The Influence Tour starts July 25th."
Also gracing the red carpet was RGIII who showed off his stylish socks of the evening, the 6'8 rookie Brock Osweilder who will be backing up Denver Broncos QB and legend Peyton Manning. ESPN NFL Analyst Antonio Pierce, Seahawks rookie QB Russell Wilson, actor Sean Astin who played in "Rudy", and Cleveland Browns RB Trent Richardson. I asked Richardson what it means to play in the NFL, "it's big, playing for the Cleveland Browns with Jim Brown and all the other great players. It's really some big shoes to fill. I hope I can bring a Super Bowl title to Cleveland."
I also asked Richardson what was it like to be in Los Angeles over the weekend, "it was cool, I had a chance to hang out with Snoop [Dogg] at the Lakers game. He's great knows alot about football, and just an all around funny guy. I had alot of fun."
Later on that night inside, Kendrick Lamar, performed in front of a packed room, very electric and exciting on stage. Everyone from DeSean Jackson to 49ers rookie RB LaMichael James enjoyed the festivities put on by the NFLPA.
These events definitely made this reporter anticipate the season even more this year. I do believe this will be one of the greatest season we've seen in a very long time in the NFL.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)