|
December 23 -- December 29, 2024
Issue No. 569
| |
|
Oaktown to Cooperstown
by Andy Dolich
The tributes to Rickey Henley Henderson are pouring in after we learned of his shocking passing on Friday just days before his 66th birthday on Christmas Day. Baseball’s “Man of Steal” has been celebrated everywhere for his place in history as the all-time stolen bases and runs scored leader, Hall of Famer, MVP, World Series winner, member of the 3,000 hit club and always entertaining and joyful figure in the world of sports.
I was lucky enough to work for the A’s during the time Rickey changed the face of the Oakland A’s and all of baseball in his stints with the team in 1979-1984 and 1989-1993. In thinking through all of the amazing history that Rickey was a part of I struck out in writing a piece that highlighted his 25 year career as baseball’s greatest leadoff hitter.
Rickey told the story better than anyone on July 26th 2009. Long live the Legend of Rickey Henderson.
| |
|
The Man of Steal
by Dave Newhouse
Christmas won’t feel the same this year for those who truly appreciate baseball, because Christmas’ biggest gift to baseball — Rickey Henderson — has been stolen from the sport he transformed.
Henderson, whose 66th birthday would have come Christmas Day, passed away last Friday from pneumonia. This tragic news feels doubly painful, because the Oakland A’s are leaving town, and now their greatest player is gone, too.
But Henderson's greatness extended across the game itself, because he was one of baseball’s most unique players -- the greatest combination of speed and power ever seen. His 1,406 stolen bases and his 81 homers leading off a game, might be two baseball records that won’t ever be broken, or possibly even be approached.
Henderson was an offensive threat unlike any other ballplayer, also holding the all-time record for most runs scored, 2,295. Either up at home plate or after getting on base, he was a singular threat in disrupting a pitcher or in changing a game’s outcome itself. He truly was one of a kind, and must be regarded as one of the top ten offensive threats in baseball history.
His athletic — or Athletic — ascendance began on the playing fields of Oakland, first gaining stature at Oakland Technical High School, where he starred in football and baseball, but then had to decide between the two sports. He was a standout running back with college potential, but his mother, Bobbie, felt he would be healthier playing baseball, and that’s how the A’s drafted him in the fourth round in 1979.
The fourth round for “The Man Of Steal”? There’s a story here, for some baseball scouts thought Henderson might choose football, but some baseball scouts were just plain lazy. For on the day they gathered to watch Henderson play baseball at Oakland Tech, every scout but one left after he had three meaningless at-bats. But A’s scout Jim Gwynn hung around, and on Henderson’s fourth time at the plate, he hit a mammoth home run.
So the A’s got a true scouting steal —a baseball prospect who would develop into the game’s greatest baserunner, scoring runs sometimes by himself. Henderson would get on base, steal second, advance to third on a ground ball, and score on a sacrifice fly. No wonder why pitchers dreaded putting him on base.
Henderson played for nine big-league clubs: the A’s, Dodgers, Red Sox, Padres, Mets, Mariners, Angels, Blue Jays and Yankees, before finally ending his 25-year career at age 44. All that was left for him, baseball-wise, was the Hall Of Fame, which came around in 2009, and involved another Henderson come-through achievement.
To those who dealt with Henderson the ballplayer, teammates and the media, they were accustomed to “Rickey-isms,” his short-clipped, often-unstructured responses to questions. Thus there was obvious concern about his acceptance speech at Cooperstown, so Henderson met up in Oakland with Laney College speech instructor Earl Robinson, himself a former major-leaguer. Henderson sat in on Robinson’s classes and working together, they crafted a speech which Henderson knocked out of the park at his induction. (See above.)
And when he was then honored post-Cooperstown by the A’s at the Oakland Coliseum -- I was one of the microphoned presenters on the field, a cherished moment — Henderson knocked it out of the park again. He always performed best in the clutch.
It was only fitting, in 2017, that the A’s honored their hometown hero by naming the Coliseum’s playing surface “Rickey Henderson Field”, painting those words right behind home plate, where he hit all those homers and scored all those runs.
And now, sadly, that home plate is lifted and gone. And Henderson’s retired number, 24, that hung in the bleachers along with other A’s retired jerseys, will no longer be visible. For big-league baseball is over in Oakland. The A’s can be followed to Sacramento, and then onto Las Vegas. With Henderson also leaving, it’s one hurtful obituary for passionate A’s fans to endure all at once.
For memories of Henderson cut deep. He played in 10 All-Star games and is a member of baseball’s 3,000-hit club. He hit 297 home runs and batted. 279, a .401 on-base percentage. He stole 130 bases in 1982 to break Lou’s Brock’s record of 120. But Henderson’s career steals of 1,406 is, in further defining his greatness, 50 percent more than second-place Brock.
Other milestones: Henderson won his only league Most Valuable Player award with Oakland in 1990, one year after the A’s swept San Francisco in the only Bay Area-bred World Series, which then led to a baseball-record four-year, $12-million A’s contract for Henderson. He was a man of many firsts.
Though his baseball home was, primarily, in Oakland, he moved in retirement to tony Hillsborough on the Peninsula, mingling with other millionaires who never swung a baseball bat. But Henderson was frugal to the core. He owned apartment buildings, and he could be found inside them fixing plumbing leaks and performing carpentry. Ballplayer or not, he always believed in getting the job done himself.
He is survived by his wife, Pamela, and daughters Angela, Alexis and Adrianna. It’s safe to say, since Henderson was mostly safe on the bases, that baseball hadn’t seen anyone like him before, and won’t see anyone like him ever again.
| |
|
First reveal of Rickey Henderson Field, April 3, 2017.
Photo by Darren Yamashita
| |
|
Tribute to Rickey
by Bruce Macgowan
So sad to hear that one of the East Bay’s greatest pro athletes of all time, Rickey Henderson died at the age of 65 this past Friday.
Rickey was not only baseball’s all-time single season base stealer but also the career steals leader. There was arguably no lead off hitter in the history of the game who was as dominant as Rickey.
Henderson got a big break when cheapskate A’s owner Charlie Finley broke up his great teams of the early and mid 1970s, selling and trading almost all of the A’s star players. That gave the 19-year-old Rickey the chance to play and by 1980, he was one of the game’s fast rising stars. In only his third full year in the bigs, Rickey broke Lou Brock’s single season stolen base record and was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated.
I got to know Rickey quite well during his long career that lasted into his mid 40s. I always enjoyed sitting down and chatting with Ricky before and after games. During our interviews, Ricky would use what we in the media called “Rickey-Speak,” which included sometimes referring to himself in the third person. I once asked him to describe what a “Rickey-rally” meant. “A Rickey-rally? That’s when I beat out an infield hit, steal second, go to third on a sacrifice fly and then score on a passed ball, beating the throw home to the pitcher. That’s a Rickey-rally! Heh, heh, heh!”
Rickey had a wonderful sense of humor and was always having fun in the clubhouse, teasing players and telling jokes. Rickey told me once that the reason he didn’t go in the football, -- which he easily could have as there were several colleges offering him scholarships -- was that his mom was worried about him getting hurt and pushed him towards baseball instead.
Rickey and Dave Stewart, another East Bay native, both told me that they used to sneak into games at the Oakland Coliseum as teenagers in the early and mid 1970s when those great A’s teams were winning three straight World Series. “It was always a dream of mine to play for the A’s, but I never thought it would happen,” he said to me during an interview.
The last time I saw Rickey was at an Oakland Raiders football game about six years ago. I was just leaving the press box and I heard this voice that called to me, “Hey!“ I looked over and there was Rickey, hiding behind sunglasses with his trademark grin. “How are you doing, man!“ And he came over and gave me a big hug. That was Rickey, one of a kind! Rest in peace, my friend.
* * *
| |
From the collection of Andy Dolich | |
|
San Francisco 49ers 17
Miami Dolphins 29
| |
|
|
Miami tops San Francisco, 29-17
The Niners received and on the first set of downs, on 3rd and 1, predictably had Patrick Taylor run into the middle of the defensive line where he was stopped cold, short by inches. With no playoff hopes, why not go for it? The team had been officially eliminated from the playoffs. Instead, Shanahan called for a punt. Game over ... Early. Miami hit a FG for a 3-0 first Q lead.
The overly and unfairly criticized Deebo Samuel Sr. had a great game, and willed his way in for a TD to give the Niners a 7-3 lead. A Miami FG and a Tua TD pass to Tyreek Hill made it 13-7, Miami.
KITLEMANIA and "MR. CLUTCH," Jajuan Jennings and a Moody FG made it 13-10 Miami at halftime. A missed Niners FG and two by Miami made it 19-10 to end the 3rd Q. Saubert caught a Purdy pass for a TD to make it 19-17. However, with numerous penalties and even more injuries, it was not San Francisco's day. Another Miami FG and a TD pass to De'Von Achane combined for a final score of 29-17, Miami.
Some 49er players deserve special mention for excellent plays. Flanagan-Fowles and Gross-Matos were disruptive forces, and Kittle, J.J. and Deebo excelled! Purdy played well despite pressure, with
the unfortunate coup de grace an interception as he got CLOBBERED on a desperate pass attempt for a fourth quarter comeback. From start to end, this was both a dismal loss and a mathematical
end to a very forgettable season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=THtZZx25KeI (13:43)
San Francisco 49ers vs. Miami Dolphins Game Highlights
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.ultimatesportsguide.net/about
Marketing Director, Sports Today
Warriors Rebound Against the Timberwolves
After one of the worst losses in Golden State's franchise history, it was crucial to erase that memory and reverse the trend of what had generally been games in which they had held leads but had watched them dissipate and turn into losses. This 113-103 win should be the elixir the Dubs needed. Credit Trayce Jackson Davis for inspirational rebounds, dunks and defense, new addition Dennis Schroder, (what happened to his blond streak?), a revitalized Brandin Podziemski and, drum roll please, a battery of knockout clutch 3-pointers from Steph in the final minutes. Some tight defense by Wiggs down the stretch helped secure the final score. Let's all exhale and get ready to enjoy the Dubs' climb back to the top of the West.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmK7Th9rWXU
Warriors at Timberwolves -- Full Game Highlights, December 21, 2024
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.ultimatesportsguide.net/about
Marketing Director, Sports Today
| |
|
College Football
Playoffs Carousel
(Part IV)
| |
|
|
With the start of college football's great experiment, the College Playoffs Carousel, (CFP), there were no major surprises but all were hard-fought battles. As expected, Notre Dame handled Indiana U. 27-17, in workmanlike but not particularly impressive fashion. The Irish may find the Georgia Bulldogs, their next opponent, a greater challenge, with Georgia's understudy QB a potential star. My SMU upset pick over Penn State looked good as their opening drive had the favored Nittany Lions on their heels. Unfortunately, the Mustang's QB chose to try for a fourth down TD throw instead of a run for a sure first down inside the 10.
The incomplete pass stunned Penn State into action, and they took over the game to win 38-10. They next play Boise State, who will be primed and ready! Clemson was simply overmatched against Texas, which won 38-24. Like SMU, the Tigers made a run, but the outcome was never seriously in doubt. Texas will next play a potentially explosive Arizona State, rested and ready. Ohio State vs. Tennessee was a clash of high-end teams, but it was the Buckeyes who impressed as they dominated the Volunteers, 42-17. They now move on to play the #1 seed, Oregon, in the Rose Bowl, a game which could determine the ultimate CFP winner!
Games will intensify next week as the Carousel picks up speed. Hang on to your horses!
LUDI INCIPE: (Let the Games Begin)
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.cce-mcle.com
Marketing Director, Sports Today
Fan Mail
My good friend, I didn't miss this issue. It's extremely informative and continues to grow weekly.
With respect,
Arif Khatib
Founder and President: Multi-Ethnic Sports Hall of Fame
Author: In the Shadow of Obscurity...Toiling In A Reluctant Society
Remember Their Sacrifice...Stories of Unheralded Athletes of Color
Film Producer: Because They Believed
| |
|
The secret to living well and long:
"Eat half, walk double, laugh triple
and love without measure."
-- Tibetan proverb
| |
|
Contents
Games
Cal Golden Bears 13, UNLV Rebels 24
Las Vegas Raiders, 19, Jacksonville Jaguars 14
San Francisco 49ers 17, Miami Dolphins 29
Features & Commentary
Jackie Chan, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson, by Andy Dolich, Bruce Macgowan, Dave Newhouse
Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Organizations
| |
|
A's
Bay Area Falcons
Bay Area Panthers
Bay FC
Cal Bears
Cal State University East Bay
Golden State Warriors
Oakland Ballers
Oakland Roots SC
Oakland Soul SC
Oakland Spiders
Saint Mary's College Gaels
San Francisco 49ers
| |
|
San Francisco Giants
San Francisco Nighthawks
San Jose Earthquakes
San Jose State Spartans
Santa Clara Broncos
SF City
Sonoma Raceway
St. Francis Yacht Club
Stanford Cardinal
UC Davis Aggies
University of Pacific Tigers
USF Dons
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna
Seca
| |
|
Las Vegas Raiders 19
Jacksonville Jaguars 14
Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, NV
Sunday, December 22, 2024
| |
The Las Vegas Raiders run onto the field on their way to snapping a 10 game losing streak for their 3rd win of the season defeating the Jackson Jaguars 19-14. Caption and photo by Ed Jay. | |
Running back Alexander Mattison celebrates after scoring a one yard TD in the second quarter for the first Raiders points of the game. Caption and photo by Ed Jay. | |
|
Running back Ameer Abdullah rushes for a seven yard TD to lift the Raiders to a 19-14 lead in the fourth quarter.
Caption and photo by Ed Jay.
| |
The stout Raiders defense held the Jaguars to 14 points. Linebacker Robert Spillane has been solid all season as one of the stalwarts and leaders. Caption and photo by Ed Jay. | |
|
Cal Golden Bears 13
UNLV Rebels 24
SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, CA
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
| |
|
The LA Bowl was at the technical marvel of Sofi Stadium. The weather for a late December game could not have been more ideal as it was 65 degrees at kickoff. The largest contingent of fans were for Cal who made their presence known by cheering on their Golden Bears. While Cal gained more yards and led in time of possession, the offense could not convert drives into scores. UNLV, on the other hand, capitalized on a few big plays to win the game, 24-13. Above, surrounded by endless dynamic digital displays, there are no bad seats at Sofi Stadium, as everything is captured and fed for constant viewing opportunities. The University of California Golden Bears of the ACC Conference faced off against the University of Las Vegas Rebels from the Mountain West Conference, in the fourth LA Bowl on Wednesday, December 18, hosted by Gronk in Inglewood, CA. Caption and photo
by Ron Sellers.
| |
With 7:45 to go in the first quarter, Derek Morris (#99) would bang a 43-yard field goal off the left upright to get Cal on the scoreboard. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers. | |
|
From the shotgun, Cal quarterback Josiah Martin (#17) would run off tackle for 29 yards and a touchdown, giving Cal the lead with :19 seconds left in the first quarter. Caption and
photo by Ron Sellers.
| |
Making a statement tackle, Cal inside linebacker Liam Johnson (#15), would catch the leaping UNLV receiver attempting a hurdle and slam him to the turf for a gain of only three yards in the first quarter. Caption and photo by Ron Sellers. | |
|
Cal's Jack Endries (#87) shows control of the ball as his left foot scrapes across the goal line. The refs ruled he was out of bounds and called for a video review but did not overturn the call. The series ended for Cal with a 30-yard field goal.
Caption and photo by Ron Sellers.
| |
|
Warriors Announce Season of Giving Efforts for 2024 Holiday Season
Events Throughout The Bay Area Planned To Spread Holiday Cheer To Underserved Communities
SAN FRANCISCO – As part of the NBA Cares Season of Giving league-wide campaign, Golden State Warriors players, coaches, and front office staff will host a variety of events this holiday season to brighten the lives of local families and youth.
Upcoming Warriors Season of Giving events are listed below. This schedule is for planning purposes only and is not to be pre-promoted.
-
Warriors Community Foundation Holiday Auction, presented by Cache Creek Casino Resort: The Warriors Community Foundation will host a Holiday Auction, presented by Cache Creek Casino Resort, from Thursday, December 19 to Monday, December 30, with an array of items including one-of-a-kind experiences, autographed memorabilia, and more, with all proceeds benefitting the Foundation’s annual grants program.
-
Holiday Market, presented by Kaiser Permanente: As part of Swishes for Dishes, presented by Kaiser Permanente, and in collaboration with The Athletes’ Corner and Feeding America, the Warriors will host a pop-up Holiday Market at Thrive City on Sunday, December 22, to provide community members with free grocery items that can be used to prepare a holiday meal.
-
Warriors Christmas Day Game: Prior to tipoff of the Warriors matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday, December 25, both teams will surprise Bay Area youth with holiday gifts.
Last month the Warriors hosted a Chop ‘N Chat at Generation Thrive Oakland where Bay Area educators and nonprofit practitioners learned how to make a healthy, holiday themed meal from former Warrior Festus Ezeli and celebrity chef Nikki Shaw. For video, CLICK HERE.
continued...
| |
|
Advertise in Sports Today!
Special Rates Available!
Ann Cooke, Sales Director
Or call (510) 414-5394
anncooke510@gmail.com
| |
|
San Francisco Giants outfielder Heliot Ramos records an out against the New York Yankees on June 1, 2024.
Photo by Darren Yamashita
| |
Q&A: Ramos talks Adames signing,
Posey’s rise
Maria Guardado / @mi_guardado
This story was excerpted from Maria Guardado’s Giants Beat
newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe
to get it regularly in your inbox.
CAROLINA, Puerto Rico -- After an All-Star campaign with the Giants, Heliot Ramos found himself in demand when he returned home to Puerto Rico last month.
The 25-year-old outfielder was among the players who were invited to participate in the second El Dream Home Run Derby and Celebrity Softball Game, which was held Saturday night to benefit Jose Berríos’ Fundación La Makina and Javier Báez’s El Mago Foundation.
Ramos played third base for Team El Mago during the softball game, allowing him to take the field at Estadio Roberto Clemente Walker alongside fellow big leaguers like Francisco Lindor, Edwin Díaz, Jorge Polanco, Jurickson Profar, Emmanuel Rivera, Enrique Hernández, Willi Castro, Martín Maldonado and Jose Miranda.
Before the star-studded event, MLB.com chatted with Ramos about his rising profile and the Giants’ recent offseason activity.
What’s it like to be part of this event and help support Berríos and Báez’s foundations?
It’s great. It’s good to be here, obviously. We’re around a lot of great people and a lot of great players. It’s a blessing that they invited me and I get to be a part of this. It’s great for people in Puerto Rico, obviously. Great for the kids. I feel like anything that involves kids and involves helping communities and all that, it’s great work.
continued...
www.sfgiants.com
| |
|
"Join us for Great Food, Great Beer and a Great Time."
We are located one block from the Moscone Convention Center, only a short walk from many of downtown San Francisco's familiar hotels, attractions, and diverse businesses. Open Monday through Thursday 4pm. Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12pm. Come by and raise a glass with us. Sláinte!
www.thechieftain.com
| |
|
Nolan Arenado with his current team, the St. Louis Cardinals. Photo by Darren Yamashita
| |
Where could A's turn to fill gap at third base?
Martín Gallegos @MartinJGallegos
This story was excerpted from Martín Gallegos’ A’s Beat newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe to get it
regularly in your inbox.
With the Athletics in the market for a third baseman and the Cardinals recently making public their plans to trade Nolan Arenado this offseason, it’s easy to connect the two as a possible match.
During a Zoom call with local reporters earlier this week to discuss the A’s trade with the Rays for Jeffrey Springs and Jacob Lopez, general manager David Forst jokingly leaned into the trade rumors when asked about what he’s looking for in a third baseman.
“I hear the Cardinals' third baseman is available,” Forst said with a grin. “We obviously have guys in the mix who just don’t have a lot of big league reps and big league experience. I think experience would be a factor. I know [manager Mark Kotsay] talked a lot at the end of the season about our defense and wanting to get better. I think we’ll place a premium on defensive ability there. We’re sort of turning over every rock right now.”
Arenado certainly checks the A's boxes, but are they a serious suitor for the eight-time All-Star and 10-time Gold Glove Award winner? Not likely.
continued...
Martín Gallegos covers the A's for MLB.com
www.oaklandas.com
| |
|
Ballers,
Main points of this note: 1. Reminder for Digital Dozen 12-Packs. 2. More info about the features and benefits of flex packs in general, including the Digital Dozen. 3. New Ballers hoodies dropped at Oaklandish.
Getting a Digital Dozen 12-Pack of Flex Tickets doesn't just mean you're going to Raimondi in 2025. It also means:
- Early access to game and seat selection: All flex-pack holders will be able to redeem before general public ticket sales begin.
- Redemption flexibility: For example, with a 12-pack: Want to bring 12 people to one game? Do it! Want two tickets to each of six games? That works. Are you a family of four? Come to three games.
- Taking your time: You don't have to redeem tickets all at once. Redeem for a game or two. Go to the games. Then redeem for a couple more later. You choose when to redeem.
continued...
www.oaklandballers.com
| |
|
Oakland Roots and Soul SC Announce Interest in Building Permanent Stadium at
Howard Terminal
We are excited to share our interest in building a permanent home at the Howard Terminal site. The Club has submitted a proposal to the Port Authority ahead of the December 18 deadline that outlines our vision for a permanent soccer stadium at this location. This submission represents an important step in exploring the site’s potential as the long-term home for Oakland Roots and Soul Sports Club.
| |
|
Earthquakes Announce Biggest Schedule in Club History for
2025 Season
Quakes to host Lionel Messi and Inter Miami at PayPal Park, San Diego FC’s first trip to Bay Area and 30th anniversary of inaugural MLS game vs. D.C. United in San Jose, as well as rivalry clashes with defending MLS Cup champion LA Galaxy at Stanford Stadium and
LAFC at Levi’s® Stadium
SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes unveiled today the biggest schedule in club history for the upcoming 2025 Major League Soccer season, which includes home games against star-studded Inter Miami CF, interstate rivals LA Galaxy, LAFC and San Diego FC, and the 30th anniversary of the inaugural MLS game vs. D.C. United in San Jose.
“The Earthquakes are thrilled to bring our fans a 2025 MLS schedule like no other,” said Earthquakes President Jared Shawlee. “From hosting San Diego FC and Inter Miami at PayPal Park, to commemorating the 30th anniversary of the league’s inaugural game, and returning to Stanford for the California Clásico and Levi’s Stadium for Mexican Independence Day Weekend, we’re bringing massive matches to our Northern California community all season long.”
The momentous year kicks off with five of the first seven games at PayPal Park, starting with a home match vs. 2024 Audi MLS Cup Playoff team Real Salt Lake on Saturday, Feb. 22 (7:30 p.m. PT). This initial home stretch concludes with a visit from Western Conference finalist Seattle Sounders FC on Saturday, March 29 (7:30 p.m. PT), and D.C. United on Sunday, April 6 (2 p.m. PT).
The latter date will mark exactly 30 years to the day the first match in MLS history took place at San Jose’s Spartan Stadium featuring the same two clubs: the Black-and-Red and the Earthquakes, then known as the Clash. Even more fitting, D.C. United’s head coach that day was Bruce Arena, who will now be manning the other sideline three decades later as the Quakes’ new head coach and sporting director.
continued...
www.sjearthquakes.com
| |
|
THANK YOU ALEX
As Bay FC’s first-ever rostered player, Alex Loera’s legacy will always be part of our story. We’re grateful for her contributions on and off the field, including her Goal of the Week stunner in 2024 against Seattle Reign FC during Week Four. Wishing Alex the best as she continues her journey with the Utah Royals!
READ MORE >>
| |
| |
|
|
BAY FC GIFT CARD
Looking for the perfect last-minute gift? The Bay FC Virtual Gift Card is here to save the day! Let your friends and family pick out their favorite Bay FC merch and rep the team in style. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to score big this holiday season.
SHOP NOW>>
| |
Jackie Chan -- from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee | |
|
Famed martial artist and actor Jackie Chan did a book signing in San Francisco at the Virgin Mega Store. I’m a huge fan and had to meet him in person. I bought four books and got in line to get them signed. He signed all four books for me, shook my hand and I asked him to sign this photo that I brought with me.
Rich Yee, Sports Today Photographer
| |
Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 111: New NIL Revenue-Sharing Agreements Deserve Some Scrutiny | |
|
by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration
The Weekly Longer NIL Thought
Schools are beginning to send out revenue-sharing agreements. The alleged quid pro quo for these transactions, other than the inherent desire to cause the athletes to participate in the schools' athletic programs, is a NIL license that oft includes sublicense rights and even rights after players' eligibility has expired.
While I have found myriad issues with these contracts, two major items stick out to me.
Many of these revenue-sharing agreements between institution and athlete include a provision that the institution's obligations are entirely contingent on the final approval of a pending settlement in the House v. NCAA case, which will not be known until April 2025, at the earliest. As such, as many of these contracts are drafted when originally transmitted to athletes for review, there is no guarantee that the athletes will get paid under the documents they execute. Absent a delineated backup plan, athletes are commonly putting themselves in a more precarious financial position than entering into what I would sometimes call somewhat shaky NIL collective contracts. This is the first glaring reason why athletes should have reputable counsel review these deals.
Many of these revenue-sharing deals create a carveout for the institution to unilaterally determine, at any point in time, that the athlete's "NIL value" has decreased, thereby lowering the promised compensation to the player. As such, the initial promise of compensation identified in the contract is largely worthless when considering that the institution has a right to adjust it at its sole discretion. Interestingly, the NCAA has taken a hard position against pay-for-play, yet some of these contracts indicate that the promised money to players can shift downward based on a player seeing reduced playing time. Again, it is vital to push back on this type of clause.
continued...
| |
WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca Unveils New Website Ahead of Action-Packed 2025 Season;
Tickets on Sale
Friends of Laguna Seca today launched a revitalized and reimagined website for WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca designed to engage and entertain fans.
The redesigned site, launched to coincide with the “On Sale” date of 2025 season tickets Wednesday, December 4, enhances the fan experience with ease of use, intuitive navigation, an interactive event calendar, and exciting new features such as interactive videos and responsive design for seamless use across mobile devices and tablets.
continued...
www.weathertechraceway.com
| |
|
Bay Area Entertainers wanted for 2025 Sonoma Raceway Events
Anthem singers and musical
acts apply now!
SONOMA, Calif. (December 18, 2024) – Sonoma Raceway is pleased to announce that online applications are now being accepted for National Anthem singers as well as bands and singers who wish to perform at the 2025 Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR weekend July 11-13, 2025. Anthem singers can choose to apply for Friday, Saturday or Sunday’s race. Bands will have the opportunity to play the Echo Park Speedway Experience Stage or as roaming entertainment throughout the Fan Zone all weekend.
Please visit the Entertainment Booking page to apply. Interested Anthem singer applicants can fill out the online form with contact information, as well as submit a YouTube video/link showing the individual singing the National Anthem a cappella style. Deadline to apply is Friday, February 28, 2025. Late applications will not be considered. If selected, acts will be notified via email no later than Friday, March 28, 2025.
The 2025 Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR weekend is July 11-13, 2025. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok: @RaceSonoma. Tickets and camping for select Sonoma Raceway events are available now at SonomaRaceway.com
For more information, contact:
Brandy Falconer
Director of Communications
BFalconer@SonomaRaceway.com
O: 707-933-3981 | C: 707-231-6005
SonomaRaceway.com/Media/News
Social media: @racesonoma
Sonoma Raceway is a 2.52-mile and 12-turn road course and quarter-mile drag strip located at Sears Point in Sonoma County, California. Built in 1968 the track is carved into rolling hills with 160 ft of total elevation change. It is host to the only NASCAR Cup Series race in California and one of the few that are run on road courses. It is one of the world’s busiest racing facilities, with track activity scheduled an average of 340 days a year. A complete and versatile motorsports complex, it is home to one of the nation’s only high-performance automotive industrial parks, with approximately 70 tenants.
www.sonomaraceway.com
| |
Nohl Williams Named Consensus
All-American
First Golden Bear To Earn Honor Since
Evan Weaver In 2019
California senior Nohl Williams has been named a consensus All-American defensive back, as announced by the NCAA on Thursday.
Williams is the first Golden Bear to earn consensus All-America status since Evan Weaver (ILB) in 2019 and is Cal's first defensive back since Daymeion Hughes in 2006. DeSean Jackson was also a consensus All-American punt returner for the Bears that season.
Players earn consensus All-America status by being listed on the most First Team All-American teams competing against players at that position only. The five organizations used in the consensus chart include the American Football Coaches Association, Associated Press, Football Writers Association of America, The Sporting News and Walter Camp Football Foundation.
Williams All-America Honors --
AFCA: First Team (DB)
AP: Second Team (CB)
FWAA: First Team (DB)
Sporting News: First Team (CB)
WCFF: First Team (DB)
The Oxnard native led the country in interceptions (7), which ties for seventh on Cal's all-time single-season list and was as many as any Cal player since Hughes' eight in 2006, when he was the Lott IMPACT Trophy winner and the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year. Williams also earned First Team All-ACC honors this season after finishing second in the conference in passes defended (15), fourth in passes broken up (8) and returning a kickoff for a touchdown during Cal's season-opening win over UC Davis. He finished the season two shy of Deltha O'Neal's single-season school record of nine interceptions in 1999 and has 14 career interceptions.
continued...
| |
Season in Review: Women's
Cross Country
Bunnage, team, shine at NCAA Championships to highlight season
STANFORD SOPHOMORE Amy Bunnage didn’t begin her season until eight days before the end of it, but made a huge impact in her short season.
Bunnage competed in two races, taking fourth in the NCAA Championships after winning the NCAA West Regional. Bunnage led Stanford to a sixth-place NCAA finish, the Cardinal’s best in four years.
Bunnage was not quite ready when Stanford raced in its first Atlantic Coast Conference Championships meet and the Cardinal placed second to Notre Dame in a competition in which the top three teams finished among six points of each other.
However, at the NCAA Championships in Verona, Wisconsin, Bunnage was the top ACC finisher and led Stanford to the highest placing among ACC teams. Her performance led to her being named West Region Athlete of the Year, and J.J. Clark, Stanford’s Franklin P. Johnson Director of Track and Field and Cross Country, was named ACC Women’s Coach of the Year.
Bunnage and sophomore Sophia Kennedy, who placed 33rd at the NCAA Championships, earned All-America honors. Bunnage was Stanford’s highest NCAA placer since Aisling Cuffe was fourth in 2013. This marked the 11th time a Cardinal woman placed among the top four.
Stanford opened the season ranked seventh by the USTFCCCA and later was as low as No. 15. The Cardinal won the USF Invitational in San Francisco and Gans Creek Classic in Columbia, Missouri, to open the season and then placed 11th at the Wisconsin Pre-Nationals on the NCAA course.
Zofia Dudek, who alternated with Kennedy as Stanford’s runner most of the season, was the top Cardinal at the ACC Championships, placing 10th to Kennedy’s 11th. Both earned All-ACC honors by placing among the top 21.
continued...
| |
Spartans Cruise in Win Over Bethesda
SAN JOSE, Calif. - Sofia Kelemeni scored a career-high 27 points and Finau Tonga added a double-double performance with 16 points and 12 rebounds to lead San José State women’s basketball (7-6, 0-0 MW) in a 100-44 win over Bethesda University (0-14, 0-0 SWS) from Provident Credit Union Event Center on Saturday evening.
- This is the first time the Spartans have scored 100 points this season and the first since they scored 128 points against Bethesda last season.
- This is the seventh time in program history the Spartans have scored over 100 points in a single game.
- Kelemeni finished with a career-high 27 points to go with seven rebounds, three assists, and six steals while going 10-for-16 from the field and 3-for-8 from behind the arc.
- Kelemeni set career highs in points, steals, field goal attempts and field goals made.
- Tonga finished with a double-double scoring 16 points to go with 12 rebounds, two assists, one block and one steal while going 7-for-13 from the field.
- Tonga’s 12 rebounds and 13 field goal attempts set new career highs.
-
Djessira Diawara finished with 14 points with five rebounds one assist and two steals while shooting 7-for-9 from the field.
- Diawara’s seven field goals made, set a new career high for the senior transfer.
-
Marisa Davis-Jones scored 14 points, five rebounds, one assist, and two steals while going 5-for-11 from the field.
continued...
| |
Saint Mary's College Gaels | |
Jordan Ross: Team-high 5 assists
MBB | Gaels Hold Off Pesky Merrimack Squad, 73-68
MORAGA, Calif. — Back at home for the first time in over two weeks, the Saint Mary's Gaels (10-2) played host to a Merrimack (5-8) team that entered the evening winners of four of their previous five games. While the Warriors kept things close for a majority of the game, the Gaels led for 38+ minutes in this one, only tied with Merrimack on three different occasions, earning their 10th victory on the year, and running their home winning streak to seven in a row.
The Gaels never trailed in half one, but never were able to truly pull away from the Warriors. They led by as many as 11 midway through the period, but Merrimack remained tough both offensively and defensively, as Saint Mary's took a 32-26 lead into the halftime break. Paulius Murauskas went for 12 points, seven boards and two steals in the first frame, while Mitchell Saxen added six points, eight rebounds and two blocks. Jordan Ross had a team-high three assists to go along with his five points. The Gaels outrebounded Merrimack 26-10, and had 10 of their 12 first half buckets made off of assists. In one of the more interesting statlines to note, both Merrimack's leading scorer, Bud Clark, and Saint Mary's leading scorer Augustas Marciulionis, were held scoreless in the opening frame
continued...
Photo: Tod Fierner
| |
Stellar Backcourt Play Propels Dons to Tenth Win
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - Protecting home court before the holiday break, the University of San Francisco men's basketball team (10-3) held on late to pick up their tenth win of the season on Saturday afternoon as the Dons defeated Montana (7-6), 71-67, at War Memorial at the Sobrato Center.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:
-
After Montana scored the first four points of the afternoon, San Francisco got on the scoreboard on a three-pointer from Malik Thomas at 17:36. Just a few minutes later, the Dons took their first lead of the game when Marcus Williams nailed a jumper at 15:19 to put the green and gold on top, 7-6.
- Finding its footing as the minutes moved along, San Francisco used a 12-2 run at the midway mark of the first half to extend their advantage to double digits, 22-12.
- Continuing to find separation offensively, a pair of free throws from Thomas with 5:48 left in the first half made it 28-14 in favor of the Dons.
-
Cutting into the lead in the final minutes of the opening half, Montana made it a seven-point game, 33-26, following a fastbreak layup from Joe Pridgen with 39 seconds remaining. However, the green and gold responded once more as a three-pointer from Ryan Beasley with six seconds left helped San Francisco jump back in front by double figures, 36-26, at the halftime break.
-
Coming out of the locker room, three straight triples from Williams, Tyrone Riley IV and Thomas kept the Dons in control through the first few minutes of the second half.
- Exploiting openings in the Grizzly defense, Williams poured it on with another jumper at 14:44 as the basket put San Francisco up fourteen points, 51-37.
- Fighting back with each possession, Montana went down swinging as the Grizzlies trimmed their deficit to single digits, 56-47, after a three-pointer from Te'Jon Sawyer with 8:59 remaining in regulation.
- Over the next five plus minutes, Montana got as close as three points, 65-62, when Pridgen dropped in a layup with 3:07 left. Although they were not perfect at the free throw line, San Francisco answered by knocking down important shots at the charity stripe to close out the contest.
-
With Pridgen keeping the Grizzlies alive following a dunk with eleven seconds left, Saba Gigiberia secured a defensive rebound with under eight seconds remaining on the game clock, but the center went on to miss a pair of free throws following the rebound.
- Dialing up one last stop, San Francisco held off any final comeback efforts as the Dons went on to secure a 71-67 victory over Montana on Saturday afternoon.
continued...
Photo: Christina Leung
| |
Jake Ensminger grabbed 10 rebounds Saturday and helped lead the Broncos to their fifth consecutive win.
Broncos Skate Past South Dakota for Fifth Consecutive Win
SANTA CLARA, Calif. — T'was the season Saturday for offensive excellence and winning streaks, as the Santa Clara University men's basketball team won its fifth consecutive game with a season-high 98 points and five players scoring in double figures, as the Broncos soured visiting South Dakota's holiday in a 98-81 non-conference win at Leavey Center.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
-
It was the third time this season Santa Clara (8-5) had five or more double-digit scorers in a game. Adama-Alpha Bal led the way with his second straight 20-point performance, scoring 20 with four 3-pointers to go with five rebounds and five assists. Tyeree Bryan logged his fifth consecutive double-digit scoring game with 16 points, Johnny O'Neil scored a season-high 15, Christoph Tilly chipped in 11, and Brenton Knapper scored a season-high 10 alongside five assists, a rebound and a steal.
- Santa Clara's 98 points were the most its scored since hanging 104 on San Diego at the West Coast Conference Tournament last season on March 9, 2024. The Broncos shot 52.7% from the field – second only to their 58.3% display versus UC Riverside on Nov. 19, and second game in a row shooting at least 50% (also shot 50% versus Kennesaw State on Wednesday). Santa Clara tied a season high with 13 3-pointers. Seven different Broncos made at least one trey.
- South Dakota (9-6) also had five double-digit scorers, led by Kaleb Stewart's 15. Cameron Fens led the Coyotes with eight rebounds. Max Burchill directed the offense with a team-high five assists.
- The Broncos put on an offensive clinic in the first half, and it was accentuated by their 3-point shooting. Santa Clara hit 10 3-pointers in the game's first 20 minutes – equaling or surpassing their entire game total from seven other contests in 2024-25. It shot 50% (10 for 20) from deep and 60.5% from the field. Nine different Broncos saw playing time in the first half, and each one scored three or more points. Eight of them had at least one rebound and eight had at least one assist.
- An 8-0 run five minutes into the game turned a four-point contest into a 12-point lead for Santa Clara at 21-9. South Dakota whittled its deficit down to six, but Santa Clara responded by going up double digits for good with a 23-7 stretch that made it 55-33.
- Santa Clara also doubled up the Coyotes on the glass, outrebounding them, 24-12, in the first half. That included eight offensive rebounds that led to seven second-chance points, and a 16-8 advantage on the defensive boards. The Broncos would finish with 46 rebounds, their second-most in a game this season.
continued...
Photo: Santa Clara Athletics
| |
University of Pacific Tigers | |
Slow Start Hinders Pacific
against Idaho
STOCKTON, Calif. – The Pacific men's basketball program fell behind early and couldn't dig itself out of a hole Saturday in a 95-72 decision against Idaho in the non-conference finale at the Alex G. Spanos Center.
Senior Elias Ralph tallied a team-high 18 points and seven rebounds. He has scored in double-figures in every game this season for Pacific (5-9). Freshman Carter Benton came off the bench and drilled a pair of three-pointers and notched a career-high eight points.
The Tigers are now 16-5 all-time against Idaho (5-8) and 8-2 at home. Pacific is now 807-454 all-time at home, 344-222 in the Alex G. Spanos Center and 3-3 this season.
Pacific begins West Coast Conference play on the road Saturday, Dec. 28 at 5 p.m. against Saint Mary's. The next home game is Thursday, Jan 2 when the Tigers host San Francisco at 7 p.m.
continued...
| |
Lan Larison, David Meyer And Rex Connors Named AFCA FCS Coaches All-Americans
DAVIS, Calif. – With the 2024 season in the review mirror, UC Davis football's postseason accolades continue to roll in as Walter Payton Finalist senior running back Lan Larison along with Buck Buchanan Award finalist redshirt junior David Meyer and junior Rex Connors were all named American Football Coaches Association FCS Coaches All-Americans.
The nod makes Larison a six-time All-American (named twice a first team All-American by the Associated Press) and Connors a five-time All-American this season having earned nods from Stats Perform, FCS Football Central, the Associated Press and Phil Steele. While not to be outdone, the award means Meyer is now a four-time All-American earned recognition by Stats Perform, FCS Football Central and Phil Steele.
Larison (running back) was named to the first team while Connors (defensive back) and Meyer (linebacker) earned second team nods.
The Aggie running back led the nation in all-purpose yards finishing with 2,387 all-purpose yards. His 847 receiving yards and 62 receptions led all running backs in the country and he finished third in the nation with 1,465 rushing yards. Larison also found the endzone 23 times, second-most in the country, crossing the goal line 17 times on the ground (sixth in the nation) and six times through the air (first among running backs in the nation).
During the season the preseason All-American earned multiple Big Sky and national player of the week awards, he was named first team All-Big Sky Conference and this marks the second-straight season Larison has earned postseason All-American honors.
continued...
| |
Cal State University East Bay Pioneers | |
Pioneer Men's Basketball Finishes Sunday's Game With 69-65 Victory Over SF State
HAYWARD, Calif. - In a tightly contested CCAA matchup, the Cal State East Bay men's basketball team secured a hard-fought 69-65 victory over San Francisco State on Sunday afternoon at Pioneer Gymnasium heading into a holiday break. The Pioneers withstood a late surge from the Gators to claim their second conference win of the season.
East Bay established control early, building an eight-point lead midway through the first half. However, SF State kept pace, briefly taking the lead before the Pioneers regained the advantage. Cal State East Bay entered halftime with a 38-33 edge.
The home team extended their lead in the second half, pushing it to as much as 13 points with 7:27 remaining. The Gators mounted a comeback, narrowing the gap to just two points in the final minute. With the score 67-65 and only 18 seconds left, SF State had a chance to tie or take the lead. However, Tyree Campbell's clutch steal and breakaway dunk in the closing seconds sealed the 69-65 victory for Cal State East Bay.
-
Ramsey Huff led the Pioneers with a game-high 18 points, shooting an efficient 6-for-10 from the floor and 5-for-6 from the free-throw line.
-
Campbell contributed 16 points and made the game-clinching play. Teiano Hardee added 12 points, including three crucial 3-pointers, while Beril Kabamba rounded out the double-digit scorers with 10 points and a team-high seven rebounds.
-
The Pioneers' defense played a significant role in the win, forcing 14 turnovers and recording 13 steals. Maxwell McCall was particularly disruptive with four steals.
- Cal State East Bay also won the rebounding battle 33-30.
- The Pioneers showcased their shooting prowess, connecting on 54.2 percent of their field goal attempts compared to SF State's 41.5 percent.
Cal State East Bay head coach Bryn Rooney following Sunday's win:
"Huge win for us heading into the break. The balance of having four guys in double figures was a key to our offensive attack and our activity on the ball defensively made an important impact to seal the game."
Rooney added:
-
"Our group has made some very important strides the last two weeks. It is extremely important we come back ready to go and continue the momentum."
continued...
Photo by: Rob Edwards / KLC fotos
| | |
|
|
Watch any program on CCE's YouTube channel, or, for attorneys, earn MCLE credits online, economically, with "The Best in Topics and Talent."
Center for Continuing Education, Monterey, CA is a State Bar of California MCLE approved Provider, #8450
https://www.cce-mcle.com/
| |
|
Weekly Bay Area
Sports Calendar
Monday, December 23, through
Sunday, December 29, 2024
| |
|
Monday, December 23
Golden State Warriors vs. Indiana Pacers, 7 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Vancouver Canucks, 6 p.m.
Tuesday, December 24
Wednesday, December 25
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 5 p.m.
Thursday, December 26
Sacramento Kings vs. Detroit Pistons, 7 p.m.
Friday, December 27
Golden State Warriors @ Los Angeles Clippers, 7 p.m.
San Jose Sharks vs. Vegas Golden Knights, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 28
Golden State Warriors vs. Phoenix Suns, 5:30 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ Los Angeles Lakers, 7:30 p.m.
San Jose Sharks vs. Calgary Flames, 7 p.m.
Sunday, December 29
Las Vegas Raiders @ New Orleans Saints, 10 a.m.
| |
|
Publisher: Christopher Weills
Marketing Director: Robert Moselle
Director of Sales: Ann Cooke; Representative: Ayiko Konopaski
Contributors: Steve Chain, Harvey Cohen, Andy Dolich, Pete Elman, Rob Flammia, Bruce Macgowan, Robert Moselle, Dave Newhouse, Howard Pearlstein, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff, Shelia Young
Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, James Molgaard,
Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee, Kenny Karst (retired).
Social Media & Production: Jenny Kim, Ammar Bhaiji
Website: www.UltimateSportsGuide.net
Contact us at: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
| |
|
FIELD OF PLAY
For the past 60 years, Michael Zagaris has taken his camera behind the scenes of the NFL, capturing the moments that define America’s game.
To order: https://www.zagarisbook.com/
| |
LOL, Loss of Logo: What’s Your Next Move? was written for sports professionals by Andy Dolich and Jack Hirschman and offers valuable takeaways for everyone chasing the fancy logo and corner office. | |
The Emerald Mile: The epic and award-winning story of the fastest ride in history through the heart of the Grand Canyon, by Kevin Fedarko. A thrilling true tale during the legendary flood of 1983. | |
More than a cookbook, this culinary delight was written to preserve a great chef's traditional family recipes and stories of her childhood for her far-flung grandchildren. Author Leonie Samuel-Hool recounts stories of a vanished society and legends of the gods and goddesses that protect and sometimes make mischief in Indonesian homes, fields and foods. The recipes are explicitly presented. | |
The absolute greatest Yankees were the 1949-1953 pinstripers, winners of an unprecedented five consecutive World Series. "The Yankee Way," Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa writes in the book's foreword, is "full of Yankee winning keys, star-studded competition, and insights about one of baseball's historically fascinating periods." By Charlie Silvera with Dave Newhouse (Author). | |
To Order: $15 hardcover, $10 paperback, plus $4.95 shipping. Send check/M.O. to Christopher Weills, P.O. Box 4515, Berkeley, CA 94704 | | |
|
The Ultimate Sports Guide is very appreciative to the ongoing contributions made by former staff photographer Kenny Karst and Robert Moselle. Mr. Karst, now retired, continues to contribute helpful ideas and his archives.
Mr. Moselle, Esq., is now lending his extensive editorial experience and marketing savvy to the publication.
| | | | |
