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March 9 -- March 15, 2026
Issue No. 632
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The Chicago Cubs welcomed the Ultimate Sports Guide on a sunny Saturday afternoon, March 7, at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona. Talented Ultimate Sports Guide photographer Maya Kuraki stopped by to catch the Athletics play the Chicago Cubs and received the gracious welcome above. (Photos of the Athletics and Giants games versus the Chicago Cubs appear below.)
Photo by Maya Kuraki.
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Bracket Bonanza!
The Carousel is Open! Are You Ready to Ride?
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Recap: With plenty of "Agony of Defeat" and "Thrill of Victory" moments, some teams have been on a Roller Coaster, not a Carousel. My two top selections, Florida and Duke, have performed up to their lofty positions in Slots One and Two. The third slot has been what hemlock was to Socrates: Poison. While Alabama mercifully remains, Kansas has been added. As to Slot Four and Miami of Ohio, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
Prognostications du Jour --
Slot 1: Florida: The current Champions continue to be impressive. Even the television gurus are now on board and have moved them well up on the official rankings ladder.
Slot 2: Duke: Duke continues to roll, (76-61 over UNC), and at 28-2 is likely to be a top seed!
Slot 3: NEW: Kansas! Iowa State/BYU: (GONE). Alabama, shaky: Slot #3 is not a friendly forum. Iowa State, BYU and Alabama all drank the hemlock, but Alabama had an elixir and can stay, and Kansas is fresh and dangerous!
Slot 4: Miami (OH): The Redhawks' 31-0 Undefeated Season makes their Tournament inclusion mandatory. They will do some damage versus teams which had refused to schedule them! Here they are in action: (YouTube): Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Ohio Bobcats https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1It5w2tfK9g
Like jury selection, Bracket picks can be more about DESELECTION than actual Selection. Which teams are overrated, under-appreciated or just on your "I can't stand them" list? It's not an easy task, and Instincts are as important as AI data.
NOTE: Bracketologists have recently added Cal and Santa Clara under "Last-4-In." It's time they got some RESPECT!
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Note to Readers:
Most photos in each issue are linked to Facebook albums produced
by our talented photographers. To enjoy additional photos, simply click on a photograph or on the link provided at the end of each report. New albums, contributor essays and Sports Today issues are continually posted to: www.ultimatesportsguide.net
We have updated our Facebook Albums link. Check here to see if your favorite team was covered and enjoy the exceptional photo coverage from our exceptional photographers:
https://conta.cc/49DptcC
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Contents
Games
Athletics 3, Chicago Cubs 4
Cal Bears (Rugby) 52, Navy Midshipmen 45
San Francisco Giants 9, Chicago Cubs 5
Stanford Cardinal (SOF) 9, Pittsburgh Panthers 2
Features & Commentary
Eileen Gu, by Ed Jay
Kristi Yamaguchi, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Tosh Lupoi Groomed by Jeff Tedford, by Dave Newhouse
Organizations
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A's
Bay Area Falcons
Bay FC
Cal Bears
Cal State University East Bay
Golden State Valkyries
Golden State Warriors
Oakland Ballers
Oakland Roots SC
Oakland Soul SC
Oakland Spiders
Saint Mary's College Gaels
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco Giants
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San Francisco Nighthawks
San Francisco Unicorns
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
| | | Eileen Gu was the Grand Marshall of the Chinese New Year Parade, viewed by over 100,000 spectators. She is the most decorated female free skier in Olympic history with six medals (three gold and three silver). Photo and caption by Ed Jay. | |
Gu was born and raised in San Francisco, attended University High School and is a student at Stanford University. Here Eileen’s mom Yan Gu takes a picture of her daughter and Willie Brown.
Photo and caption by Ed Jay.
| Eileen and mom Yan Gu at the start of the Parade. Ms. Gu is the central figure in Eileen’s rise to the national sports and fashion stages. She was a judge at the Miss Chinatown Pageant held the previous evening. Photo and caption by Ed Jay. | | |
Jeff Tedford took over a challenged Cal football program and transformed it into national prominence with bowl victories
and a Top Ten ranking.
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Tosh Lupoi
Groomed by
Jeff Tedford
by Dave Newhouse
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A gridiron magician named Jeff Tedford inherited a stagnant Cal football program early this century and — presto! — gave it instant credibility.
Now one of Tedford’s former players, Tosh Lupoi, has assumed the same magical challenge in Berkeley.
Tedford, who gave Lupoi his first coaching job as a Cal assistant in 2009, sees magic-wand potential in this rookie head coach.
“With the NIL, it’s about retaining players, because everyone has one foot out the door,” analyzed Tedford, “So there are more pieces in today’s game in building for the long haul. Recruiting is big, and Tosh is a great recruiter.”
Tedford, 64, doesn’t rule out an immediate turnaround for Cal, believing Lupoi, 44, is a perfect fit.
“He could be successful early. He’s been to so many places, and he’s surrounded himself with a great staff,” Tedford noted.
“And if you’re around great programs like Alabama and Oregon, you have a real sense of what you’re looking for.”
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Cal alumnus Tosh Lupoi was hired by another Golden Bear, Football General Manager Ron Rivera, to build a
powerhouse in Strawberry Canyon.
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Lupoi’s post-graduate resume: two years as a Cal graduate assistant before becoming defensive coordinator in 2010. He’s then coached at Washington and Alabama before three one-year NFL stints with Cleveland, Atlanta and Jacksonville prior to becoming defensive coordinator at Oregon. He then succeeded Justin Wilcox as Cal head coach.
“Tosh has a sincere passion for Cal,” Tedford said. “He’ll take pride into the job. He’s a tireless worker, smart and intuitive.”
When Tedford became Cal's coach in 2002, he didn’t have to worry about NIL — Name. Image. License. — which has transformed the NCAA into a traveling circus, with some athletes playing for four different schools.
Any other differences, then and now, for a Cal coach to handle?
"Almost everything,” Tedford said, illustrating his own situation in Berkeley.
“The stadium facilities were awful. Everything had to be rebuilt, and we didn’t have much academic support. We worked so hard to (re-)build that place."
Memorial Stadium is, indeed, The House That Tedford Rebuilt, though it hasn’t yet been paid off. Perhaps, Cal is thinking, Lupoi will fill up more seats to speed up that process.
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Tedford left Cal for his alma mater, Fresno State, creating a gridiron turnaround there also before retiring
because of health reasons.
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“He played with passion and intensity while battling though injuries” Tedford said of Lupoi, a sixth-year Cal defensive lineman out of De La Salle High School.
“Taking over a program, it’s more than X’s and O’s. He’s been around really good people.”
Dan Lanning, the Oregon coach, is enthused about Lupoi’s coming home.
“He”ll make an outstanding head coach,” Lanning predicted. “He has a reputation of doing an unbelievable job as a recruiter, but that’s not all he is. He is an unbelievable coach. He can coach every position on defense, he understands offensive ball, and he puts in the time and effort. (In becoming the Cal coach,) I know he’ll kill it.”
Tedford wasn’t contacted by Cal regarding Lupoi, but Lupoi called him after he was hired.
“He said he’d love to have me around,” Tedford said. “Yeah, I do see myself going to some Cal games, and I’ll come for a spring practice.”
Cal’s spring practice starts March 18.
Tedford retired from coaching at his alma mater, Fresno State, winning big there, too. But health issues ended his career.
“I’m feeling better,” he said last week. “I’ve lost 20 pounds, and I just finished an hour walk."
Tedford had this final thought about Lupoi, his protege’.
“He won’t be afraid of the big stage."
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* * * * *
Dave Newhouse's journalism career spans more than half a century, including 45 years at the Oakland Tribune before his retirement in November 2011. Newhouse is the author of 19 books. His most recent book, Goodbye, Oakland, is available in bookstores and from Triumph Books. Dave grew up in Menlo Park, graduated from San Jose State, and has radio and television experience, in addition to his work as an award-winning sportswriter and columnist. For earlier articles by Dave published in Sports Today, click HERE.
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Cal Bears 52
Navy Midshipmen 45
Witter Rugby Field, Berkeley, CA
Saturday, March 7, 2026
| - Cal Bears number 8 Oliver Teague scores the game-winning try with five minutes remaining as the 4th-ranked Bears upset the top-ranked Navy Midshipmen, 52-45, at Witter Rugby Field on Saturday, March 7th. Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita. | |
Masi Koi leaps in the air to touch down for a try as the Bears
tie the game at 45 late in the second half.
Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.
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Center Max Threlkeld returned from injury to help keep the Bears undefeated with two games left in the regular season.
Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.
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California Golden Bears prop Oliver Kirk (center) celebrates with prop Cade Crist (3) after a Navy Midshipmen turnover during the second half. To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page
or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net.
Caption and photo by Darren Yamashita.
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Stanford Cardinal 9
Pittsburgh Panthers 2
Stanford Softball Stadium, Stanford, CA
Sunday, March 8, 2026
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| | WARRIORS ANNOUNCE 2026 WOMEN’S EMPOWERMENT MONTH CELEBRATIONS, PRESENTED BY RAKUTEN | |
SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors have announced celebrations for Women’s Empowerment Month, presented by Rakuten, which include a variety of activations aimed to inspire youth and women by breaking down barriers, advocating for gender equality, and committing to long-term support.
Warriors Women’s Empowerment Month activations include:
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March 14: On the Baseline – The Warriors will host On the Baseline at Sylvester Greenwood Academy in Richmond, a program aimed to provide mental and physical wellness tools and resources for middle and high school girls. The event will feature a mental health workshop, a yoga and recovery class, and a basketball clinic led by Golden State Sports Academy.
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March 16: Generation Thrive Basketball Clinic – Generation Thrive will host a basketball clinic for women educators and community practitioners on March 16, led by the Golden State Sports Academy, focused on basic fundamentals, proper technique, and competitive play. Golden State Valkyries Director of Player Development, Sidney Parsons, will guide participants through drills.
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March 11 & 18: Chicas Series, presented by NBC Sports Bay Area – Golden State will host two experiences for young women from Bridgepoint High School and Latina Mentoring & Achievement. The March 11 session, hosted at the NBC Sports Bay Area offices in San Francisco, will feature a behind-the-scenes tour of the studio and offices, along with a speed mentoring session with NBC Sports Bay Area representatives. The March 18 session will take place at the Sephora Performance Center and will include a basketball clinic, followed by a panel discussion with representatives from NBC, NBC Sports Bay Area, and Telemundo. Participants will also receive tickets to the Warriors’ March 27 game against the Washington Wizards.
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March 30: Generation Thrive Chop N’ Chat – Generation Thrive will host Chop N’ Chat led by Celebrity Chef Nikki Shaw on Monday, March 30, where she will demonstrate how to cook healthy meals for Bay Area educators and community practitioners to replicate at home. Following the demonstration, local cafe owner Kashish Juneja of Kash Cafe will lead a speaking engagement touching on matcha’s connection to wellness and women’s entrepreneurship.
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March 31: Generation Thrive Salsa Class – Generation Thrive will host a Salsa dance class led by a local women-owned dance company for Bay Area educators and community practitioners to foster an evening of joy, confidence, and community.
In addition, the Golden State Valkyries and Santa Cruz Warriors will host various Women’s Empowerment Month activations throughout the month of March.
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Our Mission:
Weavery's mission is to provide data and ai strategy advice, training, and innovative solutions to high impact humanitarian organizations. Weavery leverages artificial intelligence to enhance operations and amplify impact to serve a world in need.
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San Francisco Giants 9
Chicago Cubs
Sloan Park, Mesa, AZ
March 8, 2026
| | San Francisco Giants’ Bryce Eldridge (8) with USA's Aaron Judge | |
Giants prospect Eldridge soaks in brush with Team USA stars
Maria Guardado
@mi_guardado
:232:08
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.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Top Giants prospect Bryce Eldridge always wondered how he’d measure up to Yankees superstar and fellow 6-foot-7 slugger Aaron Judge.
On Tuesday, he finally got to find out.
Eldridge played eight innings at first base in the Giants’ 15-1 exhibition loss to Team USA at Scottsdale Stadium, which meant he got to stand directly next to Judge after the American captain lined a two-run single off right-hander Adrian Houser to open the scoring in the top of the first inning.
“I was just curious what everyone thought when I got back in the dugout,” Eldridge said. “I kept asking everyone. I was like, ‘Who's taller?’ He had a helmet on, and he was standing on the bag, so everyone said he towered [over] me, but I think we're a pretty similar height. He might be a little bit thicker than I am.
“Now I know how people feel when I stand next to them.”
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Athletics 3
Chicago Cubs 4
Sloan Park, Mesa, AZ
March 7, 2026
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Battle of the Bay 2.1: San Jose Giants to Host Oakland Ballers
After making history last season, the Ballers and Giants will meet again in a Champion vs. Champion rematch
San Jose, CA – On Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the San Jose Giants and the Oakland Ballers will face off for the second consecutive year, building on the success of last season’s historic matchup. Dubbed “Battle of the Bay 2.1,” the two organizations, each fresh off their respective 2025 Championship seasons, will meet for an exhibition game at San Jose’s Excite Ballpark as part of the Giants’ Minor League Spring Training schedule. First pitch is set for 6:30 PM.
Tickets for the game are now on sale at sjgiants.com with the game set to air on CBS Bay Area.
“Congratulations to the Oakland Ballers on their first championship last year,” said San Jose Giants President Ben Taylor. “Our organization is familiar with that winning feeling as, after beginning the year with a Battle of the Bay 2.0 victory, the team secured its historic 13th League Championship. In San Jose, winning isn't a singular achievement, it is a Giant culture. We look forward to again providing fans, and the Ballers, the chance to experience it as we begin the 2026 baseball season."
Taking place at the ballpark formerly known as Municipal Stadium, which first opened in 1942, this matchup marks just the second time an affiliated Minor League franchise, the San Jose Giants, will take on an MLB Partner League team, the Oakland Ballers. The inaugural Battle of the Bay 2.0 last year was the first such meeting in baseball history.
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MATCH RECAP:
Earthquakes 1, Philadelphia 0
CHESTER, Pa. — The San Jose Earthquakes defeated the Philadelphia Union 1-0 on Saturday night at Subaru Park in front of 17,410 fans to start the season with three consecutive wins for the first time in club history.
After a scoreless first half, San Jose struck first in the 59th minute. Niko Tsakiris pushed the ball ahead to Timo Werner on the left wing, who turned and fed a streaking Ousseni Bouda with a low diagonal pass that beat the last man on the Philadelphia back line. The Quakes forward buried the pinpoint pass for his second goal of the season and a 1-0 lead.
Quakes fans can watch the replayon KTVU Plus on Wednesday, March 11, at 8 p.m. PT.
From there, Daniel and the back line held firm for their third consecutive shutout to seal the Quakes’ first 3-0-0 start since starting MLS play in 1996.
The Black and Blue now return home next Sunday, March 15, to face Seattle Sounders FC in the featured game of the week on Sunday Night Soccer presented by Continental Tire. The first 9,000 fans through the PayPal Park gates will receive a Quakes x Hello Kitty Tote Bag for Hello Kitty Night. Kickoff will take place at 4 p.m. PT and will be broadcast globally via Apple TV (English/Spanish), as well as local radio on KSFO 810 AM (English) and La Kaliente 1370 AM (Spanish).
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Oakland Shines as Roots Defeat Monterey Bay FC 1-0 in 2026 Opener
Newcomers shined, head Coach Ryan Martin began his tenure on a high note, and Oakland Roots looked renewed in their 2026 season opener at Cardinale Stadium in Seaside on Saturday night, controlling the pitch for most of the game en route to a 1-0 road victory over in-state rivals Monterey Bay FC.
Roots started the match patient on the ball, keeping possession but remaining intentional with their presses up the pitch. This gameplan led to some early scoring chances for Oakland, and limited Monterey Bay’s ability to put together anything of their own.
Most of the first frame followed this script, with Roots looking like the more organized team for the vast majority, frustrating Monterey Bay’s attack while looking for opportunities to push the ball themselves.
But both teams brought some first-game rust onto the pitch in the finishing department, as dangerous opportunities for both clubs later in the opening half led to multiple fanned-on shot attempts from both sides, as zeroes remained on the board with the clubs heading into their respective locker rooms for halftime.
Monterey Bay looked strong coming into the second half, beginning to build their attack on a more consistent basis.
But Roots quickly settled in themselves, setting up an extended deadlock at midfield that saw both sides struggle to push the ball into their attacking thirds.
The offenses started to come alive in the last phase of play, starting with a Monterey Bay chance that saw a shot rebound off of Roots’ keeper Raphael Spiegel taking him out of the play. The resulting second chance attempt however was cleared off the goal line by newcomer Michael Edwards keeping the match level at 0-0 in the 67th minute.
Roots looked to take the lead in the 78th minute when Danny Trejo buried a header into the twine, but the line judge determined the play to be offside and the goal was disallowed.
But Oakland retained the momentum of this moment, and in the 85th minute Roots buried the game winner courtesy of another offseason addition in Mark Fisher who received a corner kick just outside the 18-yard box, taking an inside touch to beat a defender before curling a left footed strike inside the right post to make it 1-0 Oakland with time dwindling.
Monterey Bay pushed desperately for an equalizer that never came, as Roots sealed the 1-0 victory at the final whistle to earn all three points in their 2026 season debut, and giving new head coach Ryan Martin the quick start he was looking for in his first game at the helm.
Roots will return to Oakland for their home opener at the Oakland Coliseum in their next action as the club prepares to build a streak when they host New Mexico United on Saturday, March 14th.
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Get ready for our Spring Series matchup—a friendly against Ottawa Rapid FC on Friday, April 17th. It’s the perfect way to kick off spring with a can’t-miss matchday!
Be there as Ottawa Rapid FC travels to the Bay Area for a friendly during their sophomore season in the Northern Super League season, marking the club’s first-ever visit to PayPal Park. Enjoy the excitement with family and friends as Bay FC goes
head-to-head in an action-packed match.
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Ballhalla awaits! The Valkyries return to the violet hardwood for Year Two with a preseason match-up against the Seattle Storm on Saturday, April 25 at 5:30PM at Chase Center.
After an unforgettable inaugural season, we can’t wait to welcome fans back for another year of elite basketball, unforgettable moments, and the electric energy that makes Ballhalla one of the loudest homes in the league. Preseason is your first chance to see the team back on the floor, build momentum for the season ahead, and be part of what’s next.
Single-game preseason tickets will be going on sale soon! Stay tuned for on-sale details and be ready to lock in your seats as we kick off Year Two together.
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| | SAN FRANCISCO UNICORNS EXTEND MAJOR PARTNER STATUS WITH QUALYS THROUGH 2027 | |
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (MARCH 9, 2026) — The San Francisco Unicorns have confirmed a partnership extension with Qualys, Inc. (NASDAQ: QLYS), a leading provider of cloud-based IT, security, and compliance solutions, to continue as the franchise’s Major Partner and Official Cybersecurity Partner for the 2026 and 2027 seasons of Cognizant Major League Cricket (MLC).
Following a successful first season of partnership in 2025, which saw the San Francisco Unicorns make the MLC playoffs for the second year in a row and play for the first time in front of home fans at the Oakland Coliseum, the two Bay Area organizations have agreed to continue the relationship, which embodies their aligned goal towards fostering elite sport and cricket growth in the region.
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"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
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Hardly Trivial by T. Buff | |
Because of Watching a Jimmy Kimmel Interview with Magic Johnson this Past Week...
the term "three-peat" is on my mind. Johnson, a part- owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, was noting he would love to give his former coach Pat Riley royalties to use the term during the Dodgers efforts at winning
their third World Series in 2026.
Everybody knows Pat Riley trademarked the term "three-peat." What basketball player first used the term as a rally cry for his team to win a third NBA championship in 1989?
Big hint: Pat Riley was the coach and Magic was on the team. Bonus points if you know the team that disallowed a three-peat...
answer below...
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Kristi Yamaguchi -- from the
Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
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I often see former Olympic skater Kristi Yamaguchi at various Bay Area events such as charity golf tournaments, San Jose Sharks games and her own fundraising events. She was promoting a product at Macy’s in San Francisco when I went to see her and she signed this photo for me. She is always very friendly with her fans and such a nice person to meet. I have several other signed photos of Kristi which I’ll share in the future. .
Rich Yee, Sports Today photographer
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Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 174: The Most Expensive Room In College Sports History Can't Speak For The
Athletes In It
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by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration
The Weekly Longer NIL Thought
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Today, President Donald Trump will convene what is being referred to as a "College Sports Roundtable." It is destined to be a very crowded meeting to discuss the future of college athletics. By any measure, it will be an impressive gathering.
Tiger Woods is expected to be there. Bryson DeChambeau and Tim Tebow can't attend but were invited. Nick Saban should be there. Same with Charlie Ward. Urban Meyer. Tony Dungy. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver. New York Yankees President Randy Levine. New England Patriots President Jonathan Kraft. Former New York Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello. All four Power Conference commissioners. The Mountain West’s Gloria Nevarez can't attend, but Big East Commissioner Val Ackerman should be present. Along with the American Conference's Tim Pernetti. NCAA President Charlie Baker. Athletic directors from Oklahoma (the retiring Joe Castiglione), Indiana, Iowa State, Wake Forest, and Notre Dame. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Senators Ted Cruz and Eric Schmitt. Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Fox Sports CEO Eric Shanks. ESPN Chairperson Jimmy Pitaro. RedBird Capital’s Gerry Cardinale. Blackstone’s David Blitzer. Sports industry executive Marc Ganis. Texas Tech board chair and Trump advisor Cody Campbell. Former Clemson president Jim Clements. University presidents and chancellors from Tennessee, Nebraska, and Kansas. And more?
The roundtable should have more than two dozen participants. Golf legends. Football royalty. Media moguls. Billionaire investors. A Secretary of State. Two professional sports franchise executives whose leagues don’t have college sports.
You know who won't be in the room? A single current college athlete. None. Not a player representative (agent or lawyer) and not an NIL collective founder. And, for what it’s worth, not me either, which I’ll admit stings just a little, although it would have interrupted a vacation to Disney World to celebrate my son's fourth birthday. I’ve only spent years building an NIL practice and writing about this space, but apparently, Tiger Woods’ availability to discuss the future of college sports was deemed more relevant. I understand. Totally fine. I’m not bitter. I swear.
The expectation is that this meeting will focus on and recommend an antitrust exemption for the NCAA. That has been the ask from college sports’ establishment for years, and it was supercharged after the Supreme Court’s unanimous 9-0 ruling against the NCAA in NCAA v. Alston in 2021. As Justice Kavanaugh wrote in his concurrence, the NCAA is not above the law. But it wants to be and has begged Congress for such an exception many times over.
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WeatherTech Raceway
Laguna Seca
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7 Races. 1 Pass. Your Season Starts Here.
Lock in a full season of racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca with the 2026 Season Pass—your grounds and paddock pass to nine thrilling race weekends at one of motorsport’s most iconic circuits.
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Vintage Vibes, Modern Speed:
IMSA at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
The IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship returns to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca May 1–3 for The Monterey SportsCar Championship, featuring an action-packed schedule includes the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America, and the Ford Mustang Challenge, plus fan events like the IMSA Street Party on Alvarado St. in Monterey and special driver-fan events unique to the Laguna Seca IMSA weekend.
We’re turning back the clock for a “Throw-Back” weekend - so dig out those vintage race jackets, retro team hats, and classic gear and help celebrate the legendary history of sports car racing at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca.
| | Hardly Trivial Answer by T. Buff | | |
Byron Scott
Heading into the 1989 season, Lakers guard Byron Scott (#4 above, with Magic Johnson) was the first person to use the term "three-peat" as a way to motivate his teammates. Pretty soon, "three-peat" became the rallying cry for all Lakers fans throughout Los Angeles.
There is so much info about the phrase. The first, from Snopes, at the provided link is my favorite.
Go Celtics!
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Cal Sweeps San Diego For
11th Straight Win
Ties 2nd-Longest Streak In Program History
BERKELEY— For the first time since 1989 the California baseball team has won 11 straight games tying the second-longest streak in program history with a 5-2 win over San Diego on Sunday at Stu Gordon Stadium.
With the four-game sweep over the Toreros the Golden Bears improved to 13-3, their best start since 2015, while San Diego fell
to 7-8.
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Photo: Robert Edwards
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Undefeated Weekend for
Men's Rowing
Stanford beats UC San Diego, Santa Clara and San Diego to secure a perfect Redwood Shores Invitational
REDWOOD SHORES, Calif. – Stanford boats closed out the Redwood Shores Invitational with undefeated records over the weekend.
The first, second and third varsity eights combined for a 7-0 weekend on the 2,000-meter Belmont Channel/Redwood Shores Lagoon course.
Action started on Saturday morning with Stanford beating UC San Diego in first varsity and second varsity matchups in impressive times. The Cardinal 1V8 covered the course in 5:36.0. The Cardinal 2V8 won in 5:48.5.
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Spartans Fall to Pitt Despite
Late Rally
SAN JOSE, Calif. – Alex Fernandes went 3-for-5 and hit his first home run of the season to lead the San José State baseball team (4-11, 0-0 MW) in a 3-2 loss to Pitt (12-2, 0-0 ACC) Sunday afternoon from Excite Ballpark in the final game of the three game series in which Pitt took all three games.
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| | Saint Mary's College Gaels | |
SB | Gaels Drop Two Against the Spartans, Finish Out Week 3-3
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The Saint Mary's softball team fell into early deficits in both ends of its doubleheader against San Jose State, and were unable to claw back in either, falling 5-1 and 6-2 on Sunday. The Gaels finish off their week with a 0.500 record, after winning both contests in their Tuesday twinbill and splitting with Fresno State yesterday.
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Beavers Squeeze Past Dons in WCC Championship Quarterfinals
LAS VEGAS, Nev. - The University of San Francisco (USF) men's basketball team (17-15, 8-10 WCC) jumped out to an early lead on Saturday night, but Oregon State (17-15, 9-9 WCC) fought back to squeeze out a one-point victory, 78-77, in the 2026 Credit Union 1 West Coast Conference (WCC) Championship Quarterfinals.
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Photo: Kyle Terada
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Women's Basketball Faces Gonzaga in WCC Tournament Semis
SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Third-seeded Santa Clara women's basketball takes on second-seeded Gonzaga Monday at 2:30 p.m. in the semifinals of the Credit Union 1 West Coast Conference Basketball Championship.
Santa Clara is averaging 81.3 ppg on 40.3-percent shooting from the field, 31.6-percent from beyond the arc, and 73.4-percent from the free throw line.
The Broncos are averaging 42.8 rpg, 16.3 apg, 9.7 spg, and 5.4 bpg with 11.5 tpg. They have a +5.3 turnover margin and a 1.4 assist-to-turnover ratio.
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| | University of Pacific Tigers | |
No. 24 Women’s Water Polo Caps Huge Weekend with Overtime Victory at No. 17 San Jose State
SAN JOSE, Calif. – For the second day in a row, the No. 24 Pacific women's water polo program took down a higher ranked opponent as it defeated No. 17 San Jose State in a 15-14 overtime thriller Sunday at the Spartan Recreation and Aquatic Center.
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Aggies Claim Series Victory With
7-3 Win Over UC Riverside
Score: UC Davis 7, UC Riverside 3
Location: Riverside, Calif. (Riverside Sports Complex)
Records: UC Davis 7-8 (2-1 Big West), UC Riverside 4-12 (1-2 Big West)
THE SHORT STORY: UC Davis powered to a decisive 7-3 victory against UC Riverside on Sunday afternoon, fueled by a massive four-run first inning that immediately set the tone for the series finale. The Aggies showcased a balanced, relentless offensive attack with 11 hits, paired with a strong performance on the hill to clinch the weekend series and secure their first Big West Conference series win.
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| | Cal State University East Bay Pioneers | |
We’re In! Pioneers to Host NCAA West Regional After Historic Season
History has been building all season inside Pioneer Gymnasium. Now, the next chapter is set to unfold on the biggest stage yet.
For the first time in program history, the Cal State East Bay Pioneers men's basketball will host the NCAA Division II West Regional, earning the opportunity after completing one of the most remarkable seasons the program has ever seen.
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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/
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Weekly Bay Area
Sports Calendar
Monday, March 9, through
Sunday, March 15, 2026
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Monday, March 9
Golden State Warriors @ Utah Jazz, 6 p.m.
San Francisco Giants @ Los Angeles Angels, 12:05 p.m.
Athletics @ Cincinnati Reds, 1:05 p.m.
Tuesday, March 10
Golden State Warriors vs. Chicago Bulls, 7 p.m.
Sacramento Kings vs. Indiana Pacers, 7 p.m.
San Francisco Giants @ Cleveland Guardians, 1:05 p.m.
Athletics vs. Chicago White Sox, 7 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Buffalo Sabres, 4 p.m.
Wednesday, March 11
Sacramento Kings vs. Charlotte Hornets, 7 p.m.
San Francisco Giants @ Kansas City Royals, 1:05 p.m.
Athletics @ Arizona Diamondbacks, 1:10 p.m.
Thursday, March 12
San Francisco Giants vs, Chicago White Sox, 6:05 p.m.
Athletics @ Texas Rangers, 1:05 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Boston Bruins, 4 p.m.
Friday, March 13
Golden State Warriors vs. Minnesota Timberwolves, 7 p.m.
San Francisco Giants (SS) vs. Cincinnati Reds, 4:05 p.m.
San Francisco Giants (SS) @ Cincinnati Reds, 6:05 p.m.
Athletics (SS) vs. San Diego Padres, 1:05 p.m.
Athletics (SS) @ Milwaukee Brewers, 1:05 p.m.
Saturday, March 14
Sacramento Kings @ Los Angeles Clippers, 7:30 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Montreal Canadiens, 4 p.m.
San Francisco Giants vs. Arizona Diamondbacks, 1:05 p.m.
Athletics vs. Kansas City Royals, 1:05 p.m.
Oakland Roots vs. New Mexico United, 7 p.m.
Bay FC vs. Denver Summit FC, 3:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 15
Golden State Warriors @ New York Knicks, 5 p.m.
Sacramento Kings vs. Utah Jazz, 7 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Ottawa Senators, 3 p.m.
San Jose Earthquakes vs. Seattle Sounders FC, 4 p.m.
San Francisco Giants vs. Milwaukee Brewers, 1:05 p.m.
Athletics @ Cleveland Guardians, 1:05 p.m.
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Publisher: Christopher Weills
Associate Publisher: Ann Cooke
Marketing Director: Robert Moselle
Sales: Ayiko Konopaski
Contributors: Lydia Chain, 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
Software Engineer / Sports Today Editor: Medhavee Upadhyaya
Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee, Kenny Karst (retired)
Advisor: Arif Khatib
Artist: Carl Macki
Website: www.UltimateSportsGuide.net
Contact us at: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
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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: $10 hardcover, $7 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.
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