|
February 9 -- February 15, 2026
Issue No. 628
| | The Wasted Management Golf Tournament, aka the WM Phoenix Open | | | Waste Management Phoenix Open | | |
PGA Golf tournaments are known as venues where polite and well-dressed fans cheer on their favorites, secure behind ropes, trees and open space. The WM (Waste Management) Phoenix Open? Not so much.
On Sunday, the par-3 16th hole, known as "The Coliseum," was, as usual, the epicenter of the action, with approximately 20,000 fans packed into a fully enclosed stadium built specially for this event and who, by the 16th hole, had made back every dollar spent by beer sponsors. They joined in with both ecstatic cheers and loud boos as gladiator-players entered their arena. Total weekly attendance was estimated at 700,000.
Known as "The People's Open," raucous fan behavior played a pivotal role in the outcome. On the 72nd hole, Hideki Matsuyama had to back off a 25-foot par putt—which would have won the tournament—after a fan screamed during his routine. He missed the putt, which forced a playoff.
During the playoff on the 18th hole, a loud crash (reportedly a chair falling in the gallery) occurred during Matsuyama's downswing, who then hooked his drive into the water which would lead to Chris Gotterup's victory. Gotterup is a four-time winner, and won the Haskins Award and Jack Nicklaus Award as the top college golfer
in 2021-22. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_Gotterup
He earned $1.728 for this win, and Matsuyama $1,046.
That was an expensive chair!
Scottie Scheffler, after some mediocre early-round play, had a dramatic final round, but fell just short. His appearance on the 16th hole was epic, with crowd chants for SCOTT-IE. (Arguably louder and wilder fans than at the Super Bowl.) He finished in a five-way tie for third place ($439,680).
| | |
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
| | |
Contents
Games
Cal Bears (MBkB) 90, Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 85
Saint Mary's Gaels (MRug) 69, Life West Gladiators 22
Saint Mary's Gaels (WRug) 25, Cal Poly Maritime Keelhaulers 0
Features & Commentary
Bad Bunny, Seattle are in Harmony, by Dave Newhouse
Calling All Ornithologists, by Andy Dolich
Can Porzingis Get Warriors To Postseason?, by Dave Newhouse
Hardly Trivial by T. Buff
Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.
No Drama in Super Bowl, by Bruce Macgowan
Steve Young, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
Organizations
| | |
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
| | |
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
| | Art work in Sunday's The New York Times | | | |
Calling All Ornithologists
by Andy Dolich
| | |
Besides Bad Bunny, there was another controversy about a nickname that never captured the global headlines of Super
Bowl 60.
I am not an educated Ornithologist but do spend a fair amount of time fishing from sea to shining sea. When the big fins aren't biting, my eyes drift skyward to identify the high flyers that aren't fish.
When the Seahawks punched their ticket to SB 60, I wanted to understand a bit of their high-flying bird history.
Actually, there is no such avian as a Seahawk. No ornithologist would refer to them as such. (They don’t even spell it as one word.) Some people, though, consider “sea hawks” to be a nickname for Ospreys or Skuas.
Ospreys are found on every continent except Antarctica, while Skuas are migratory birds found from the North Pole to the South Pole. So I guess Seattle qualifies.
Are Ospreys or Skuas the model for the Seattle Seahawks logo? Neither. The team marketers rallied around a captive bred 10-year-old Augur Hawk named Taima. Don’t bother looking for her wild cousins around Puget Sound; Augur Hawks are mainly found in the arid mountains of Africa.
But scientific accuracy wasn’t really the point. In reality, the logo is a nod to one of the Seattle region’s many Native communities, the Kwakwaka'wakw nation.
How did they become the Seattle Seahawks? After Seattle received an NFL franchise in 1974, the owners held a name-the-team contest that attracted over 20,000 submissions. Around 150 contestants suggested the Seahawks out of 20,000 submissions. It was chosen one of five finalists along with the Mariners, Evergreens, Olympics and Sockeyes.
Even as winners of SB 60, they will continue to be the Faux Fowls of Football.
| | | | Andy Dolich operates Dolich & Associates, a sports consultancy, in Los Altos. A local resident, Dolich has more than 50 years of experience as an executive in professional sports, working with the Oakland A's, San Francisco 49ers, Golden State Warriors, and hockey and soccer teams. Dolich is also the co-author of Goodbye, Oakland, is available in bookstores and from Triumph Books. For earlier articles by Andy Dolich published in Sports Today! click HERE. | | |
Drake Maye is sent sprawling by a relentless Seattle defense
that set the tone for a 29-13 victory
| | | |
Bad Bunny,
Seattle Are
In Harmony
by Dave Newhouse
| | |
Ah, the Super Bowl, where quarterbacks square off, elevating their teams to historic stature, and lifting their own legacies into, possibly, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Holy Grail of helmeted life.
A Super Bowl victory is nearly required for a quarterback’s sacred entry into the hallowed hall in Canton, Ohio. The game’s greatest quarterbacks have met that challenge.
And so once again Sunday, at Super Bowl LX (60) in Santa Clara, two quarterbacks new to this gridiron summit will seek immortally.
What do you mean, wait a minute? They aren’t the immortal types, you say. This could be the worst Super Bowl quarterback matchup ever, you believe. Wait, hold on, let’s review.
We’ve got Drake Mayo, er, Maye of New England going up against Sam Darnitt, um, Darnold of Seattle in — you know, you’re right, who are these guys?
I had to review Super Bowl quarterback face-offs of the past to see where today’s would rank. It’s right there with Trent Dilfer of Baltimore facing Kerry Collins of the New York Giants in 2000. Even Brad Johnson of Tampa Bay versus Rich Gannon of Oakland in 2002, and Joe Flacco versus Colin Kaepernick of San Francisco in 2012 had more charisma.
So I was supposed to watch today's game and some goof named Bad Tummy — I mean Bunny — at halftime when I’ve been spoiled terribly at past Super Bowls with entertainment packages. Bad Bunny over Beyonce, no thanks.
Same thing during the game: Joe Montana (San Francisco) vs. John Elway (Denver), Tom Brady (New England) vs. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City), Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams) vs. Joe Burriss (Cincinnati), Aaron Rodgers (Green Bay) vs. Ben Roethlisberger (Pittsburgh)….need I go on with great matchups?
Marquee quarterbacks have gotten too old, too injured, and too retired — save Phillip Rivers — and that’s why we were left with Sunday’s unexciting pairing. Can Bad Bunny run pass patterns?
But let’s not be cruel. Maybe one of the quarterbacks, or perhaps both, will rise to the occasion. Each is hoping against rain on his parade. Though I'm pulling for the Mayo man to pull off a shocker, that's a myth. It's those nasty Seahawks in a blowout, 32-10.
When evaluating a Super Bowl, experts (an often loosely used term) look for big plays, dominance, dramatic finishes in predicting an outcome.
What’s commonly overlooked are the uncommon influences — a safety, a fumble return, a defensive lineman’s interception, and numerous field goals.
The unexpected.
This projection was written by yours truly before Sunday’s kickoff, so let’s see what transpired:
Three Jason Myers field goals gave Seattle a 9-0 halftime lead when Bad Tummy, um, Bunny took the field carrying a football, which he held onto through the first all-Spanish-singing halftime show in Super Bowl memory. Then he finished up by spiking the football. He might have helped the Patriots.
Myers kicked two more field goals for a Super Bowl record, and the Seahawks sacked Mayo, er, Maye seven times to take a 19-0 lead in the fourth quarter. First Super Bowl shutout?
Cris Collinsworth, working with broadcast partner Mike Tirico on Sunday, is an excellent football analyst — thorough, clever, direct, funny. At that 19-0 juncture, he commented: “I said Drake Maye had to be great tonight. He has not been.”
Right afterwords, Maye threw a 35-yard touchdown pass to Mack Hollins. But Julian Love then returned a Maye interception 35 yards for a touchdown, and Uchenna Nwosu next carried a Maye fumble 45 yards for another score to take a 29-7 lead.
Maye threw for a second touchdown, but the damage was done, 29-13. A good night for predictions from this journalist, who normally has the opposite outcome in speculating on games.
Pass me the ball, Bad Bunny. Let's see if I can catch it.
| | |
* * * * *
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.
| | |
Seattle Seahawks defensive end Rylie Mills (98) celebrates after sacking New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl 60 football game, on Sunday in Santa Clara, Calif. Sue Ogrocki/AP
| | | | |
No Drama In Super Bowl
by Bruce Macgowan
| | |
I never thought I would say that the halftime show and even the commercials would be more entertaining than the Super Bowl.
But for the first three quarters of Sunday’s NFL extravaganza,
that was certainly the case. And you have to credit Seattle’s formidable defense for sucking out most of the drama in Santa Clara in the Seahawks’ smashing win over the young Patriots.
Everyone who has followed the NFL this season knew that Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye was facing the most formidable defense in football, but it was a more nightmarish game that the young man could have imagined.
The thing that impresses one most about the Seattle defense is the fact that they have such balance and play with such ferocity.
Their outside pass rush in particular exploited the
inexperienced left side of the Patriots O-line and poured the pressure on Maye who was constantly scrambling for his life.
In the first half, Seattle never allowed New England to get
closer than the Seahawks’ 45 yard line. And overall, they sacked him SEVEN times.
While Seattle’s defense deserves the credit for putting a stamp on this game, second year pro Kenneth Walker emerged as a future star as he gashed New England for 135 yards on 27 carries. Walker is built like a little tank, but he’s got great footwork and quickness and when he broke off a 30-yard run in the first half, you knew it was going to be a long night for the Pats.
Meanwhile, unheralded quarterback Sam Darnold, who was a backup to 49ers QB Brock Purdy just a couple of years ago, was a good “game manager,” minimizing any possible mistakes in spite of a fierce New England pass rush. Pats’ coach Mike Vrabel had to be proud of his defense that limited the Seahawks to a mere nine points in the first half, as they kept New England alive and gave Maye a chance for a comeback in the fourth quarter.
The play of star cornerback Christian Gonzalez in particular was a godsend, as he broke up at least three passes that could have led to a Seahawks blowout win early.
But the Patriots showed little life as they punted on each of their first eight possessions. It wasn’t until the fourth quarter when Maye finally shook off the trauma of being repeatedly
knocked on his rear to put some excitement back into the game.
A three play, 68 yard drive finally got New England into the end zone and they were moving the ball again with just over five
minutes to play but then the lights suddenly went out. Seattle DB Uchenna Nwosu provided the knockout blow as he snatched away a Maye pass and raced 45 yards for a touchdown.
While the drama might have been mostly missing at Levi's Stadium, football fans learned one thing: Seattle has the best defense in football and will probably be a favorite to win another Lombardi Trophy next season.
| |
* * *
Long-time Bay Area sportscaster Bruce Macgowan has been recording his 45 years of broadcast experience for a forthcoming book to be published shortly. For earlier articles by Magowan published in Sports Today, click HERE.
| | This Vince Lombardi trophy will be presented to the winner of Super Bowl LX. The trophy is named in honor of NFL coach Vince Lombardi who led the Green Bay Packers to victories in the first two Super Bowl games. Caption and photo by Ed Jay. | |
Celebrity Chef Tyler Florence at the Taste of the NFL, the largest philanthropic event during Super Bowl week. Florence is an American chef and television host of several Food Network shows. He is the owner and executive chef of Wayfare Tavern in
San Francisco. Caption and photo by Ed Jay.
| |
Above, NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith at Radio Row during Super Bowl week. Smith is the league's all-time leading rusher and is widely considered to be one of the greatest running backs of
all time. Caption and photo by Ed Jay.
| |
At the Electronics Arts Super Bowl media party in Redwood City guests were playing Madden 2026 in the bar area.
Caption and photo by Ed Jay.
| |
Local media folks were well represented at the Electronic Arts Super Bowl media party. Above, Bay Area Sports Wrap team:
(l-r) Lowell Tuckerman, John Wong, Marko Ukalovic, Ryan Leong. Caption and photo by Ed Jay.
| DJ Umami, a Filipina American deejay, has held residencies playing for the Golden State Warriors and the San Francisco Giants. DJ Umami provided music for the Electronic Arts Super Bowl party. Caption and photo by Ed Jay. | |
Cal Bears 90
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 85
Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
| | |
The visiting Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets entered the Haas of Pain, only to get stung by the Golden Bears who came out of the gate with a fury jumping out to a 8-0 lead. Cal held the lead until midway through the second-half, when a back-and-forth would intensify the game. The Golden Bears recomposed themselves and pulled ahead and would hold onto the win, 90-85. All five Cal starters would score in double-digits. Cal's Dai Dai Ames scored a season-high 29 points, leading all scorers. Above, Ames puts up a left-handed, one-armed shot late in the game.
Photo and caption by Ron Sellers.
| |
Turning to celebrate after hitting a three-point shot, Cal's John Camden (#2) gets the crowd fired up in the first half.
Photo and caption by Ron Sellers.
| Coming in off the bench to play 16 minutes, DeJuan Campbell (#1) lines up beyond the arc to hit one of two three-point shots early in the first half. Photo and caption by Ron Sellers. | Justin Pippen (#10) drives the baseline to toss up a reverse scoop shot midway through the second half. Pippen would finish with six assists and 13 points. Photo and caption by Ron Sellers. | |
Spotting up along the baseline, Chris Bell (#22) takes the shot,
and would finish the game with 14 points.
Photo and caption by Ron Sellers.
| |
Cal fans celebrate one of twelve successful three-point shots.
To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net.
Photo and caption by Ron Sellers.
| | |
Kristaps Porzingis has the height at 7-foot-2, but is he healthy enough to positively influence the Warriors’ playoff pursuit?
| | | | |
Can Porzingis
Get Warriors
To Postseason?
by Dave Newhouse
| | |
In a trade that was hardly shocking, the Golden State Warriors finally said goodbye to Jonathan Kuminga, who was the least shocked of anybody.
Kuminga's long-anticipated exit from the Warriors also included Buddy Hield in a two-for-one trade with Atlanta for 7-foot-2 Kristaps Porzingis, a center with a forward’s mentality. Lotsa luck, Dubs.
The Warriors made another move, trading center Trayce Jackson-Davis to Toronto for a second-round pick in 2026. He was the Warriors’ second-round pick in 2024, thus a balanced transaction.
But the acquisition of Porzingis begs this question: Do the Warriors finally have the big presence in the post they’ve been lacking in their NBA title quest this decade?
The answer is uncertain, for Porzingis is a giant with a little man’s personality, preferring to shoot outside instead of near the basket.
Haven’t the Warriors had enough of this kind of misplaced pivot, except that Porzingis is 7-foot-2. If he would only play by the rim, the Warriors would benefit greatly.
This will take one of coach Steve Kerr’s biggest selling jobs to make it happen, but it could lead his team into the playoffs.
Porzingis has versatility, allowing him to slide in and out of the post. He shoots accurately from three-point range, but the Warriors are over-qualified in that category. If he would rebound, block shots and dunk, the Warriors are a completely different team.
| |
Porzingis shoots extremely well from the outside, but the
Warriors need his giant presence around the basket.
| |
When he’s healthy — another big if — Porzingis is averaging 17.1 points, 5.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists this season. But he’s now 30 and bothered by Achilles tendinitis, plus another “mystery illness” that has bothered him since last season.
“Mystery” isn’t what the Warriors need, casting a shadow over his acquisition.
With the Warriors, for some reason, no trade seems clear cut. They’ve seriously lacked a talented big man, and do they have one now in Porzingis?
This season hinges on his delivering in an all-around capacity instead of trying to match Stephen Curry in three-point accuracy.
Trading Kuminga qualifies as an after-thought, with the Warriors benching him for a month this season. He’ll be joined in Atlanta by teammate Hield, an electrifying shooter when he’s on, but less voltage otherwise in his contribution.
Let’s see if these two can spark the Hawks, looking for a jolt in the yet winnable NBA Southeast. Jackson-Davis looks like a postseason shoo-in with Toronto in the NBA Atlantic.
The Warriors in the postseason? Looks like it depends on Porzingis.
Dominate the low post, big fella.
| |
* * * * *
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.
| | |
Saint Mary's Gaels 69
Life West Gladiators 22
Saint Mary's Stadium, Moraga, CA
Saturday, February 7, 2026
| | |
Saint Mary's Gaels 25
Cal Poly Maritime Keelhaulers 0
Saint Mary's Stadium, Moraga, CA
Saturday, February 7, 2026
| | |
Website Issues?
Medhavee Can Help...
with Concept, Creation, Redesign, Maintenance, Copy, etc.
Recent Site: www.ultimatesportsguide.net
Write: upadhyayamedhavee@gmail.com
| |
|
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.
| |
Giants Spring Training FAQ: Key dates, matchups and more
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.
The countdown to Spring Training is nearly over for the Giants.
Here’s a quick rundown of everything you need to know to get ready for the start of the 2026 season:
When are the first workouts for players?
The Giants will hold their first workout for pitchers and catchers on Tuesday, followed by their first full-squad workout on Feb. 15.
Pitchers and catchers who are participating in the World Baseball Classic have a voluntary report date on Monday. Their position player counterparts are required to report by Feb. 12. The Giants’ list of Classic participants currently includes right-hander Logan Webb (USA) and outfielders Heliot Ramos (Puerto Rico) and Jung Hoo Lee (Korea).
Where is the Giants’ facility?
The Giants train at Scottsdale Stadium, which is located at 7408 East Osborn Road in Scottsdale, Ariz.
Can fans attend workouts?
Workouts at Scottsdale Stadium are generally open to the public when the Giants aren’t scheduled to play a home game. Entry is through Home Plate Plaza on the corner of Osborn Road and Drinkwater Blvd.
continued...
| |
What to know as A's head to spring camp with high hopes for '26
Before the Athletics begin Year Two in their temporary home of Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, Calif., they’ll head to Arizona to prepare for a 2026 season in which they expect to return to playoff contention.
Here are some frequently asked questions that A’s fans might have entering 2026 Spring Training:
When is the first workout for pitchers and catchers?
The A’s will hold their first workout for pitchers and catchers on Wednesday.
What is the date of the first full-squad workout?
All players will take part in the first full-squad workout on Feb. 16.
What about the A’s playing in the World Baseball Classic?
Pitchers and catchers who are participating in the WBC have a voluntary report date on Monday. Their position-player counterparts are required to report by Feb. 12. The list of A’s WBC participants includes right-handers Luis Severino and Elvis Alvarado (Dominican Republic), shortstop Darell Hernaiz and outfielder Carlos Cortes (Puerto Rico) and center fielder Denzel Clarke (Canada).
continued...
| | |
Ballers Fam and Community,
We want to invite you to be part of something meaningful.
This February, we are coming together in West Oakland to move with purpose, honor history, and care for one another. The first annual Freedom Run and Community Wellness Festival is a moment to show up for our health, our neighbors, and our shared future.
FREEDOM RUN + COMMUNITY WELLNESS FESTIVAL
Raimondi Park, West Oakland
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Freedom Run 5K
9:00AM to 10:00AM
Run or walk. All fitness levels welcome.
Community Wellness Festival
10:00AM to 3:00PM
Free. All ages. Open to everyone.
| | |
Organized in partnership with the Oakland Ballers and the Black Panther Party Alumni Legacy Network, the Freedom Run is a 5K run and walk through West Oakland that highlights historic Black Panther Party landmarks. This is more than a race. It is a symbolic journey that represents the ongoing fight for freedom, justice, and health equity.
Run registration is offered on a sliding scale with tiered contributions so everyone can participate. Every registration directly supports the modern survival programs of the Black Panther Party Alumni Legacy Network and helps make this event possible.
| | |
PRESEASON MATCH RECAP: Earthquakes 1, Charlotte FC 0
Beau Leroux’s first-half goal the difference in Quakes’ victorious 2026 Coachella Valley Invitational opener; San Jose faces Portland Timbers next on Wednesday,
Feb. 11 (3 p.m. PT); Match to air live on KTVU Plus, sjearthquakes.com and Earthquakes
YouTube channel
INDIO, Calif. — The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Charlotte FC
1-0 on Saturday afternoon at the Empire Polo Club in their opening preseason game at the 2026 Coachella Valley Invitational.
Charlotte threatened early but Daniel made a pair of point-blank saves in minutes 35 and 36 to keep the match scoreless. San Jose then struck first in minute 41 when Niko Tsakiris carried his defender into the box and connected with Ousseni Bouda, who laid it off for Beau Leroux at the edge of the penalty arc. The midfielder’s low shot across his body snuck past Charlotte goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina to give a Quakes a 1-0 lead that they would hold into the break.
MEDIA ASSETS: Click here for videos/photos from today’s win
After intermission, both sides created chances in attack but neither found the net as the San Jose back line preserved the clean sheet and the win.
continued...
| | |
Oakland Fútbol is for EVERYONE,
and EVERYONE is welcome in Oakland.
IT'S ALMOST TIME! The 2026 Oakland Roots season drops soon with a jam-packed schedule of themes and celebrations, including:
‘Oakland Roots Home Opener’
(Fireworks + Special Performances)
7 PM PT, Saturday, 3/14 vs. New Mexico United
‘AAPI Heritage’ Night
7 PM PT, Saturday, 5/9 vs. El Paso Locomotive FC
‘KPOP’ Night
7 PM PT, Saturday 7/25 vs. Sacramento Republic FC
‘Conoce Tus Raices’ Night
7 PM PT, Saturday 9/26 vs. Phoenix Rising FC
The best way to experience it all? A Roots Season Ticket Membership at the Oakland Coliseum. Enjoy professional soccer, community, and culture all season long with our flexible ticket exchange, exclusive Member events, and so much more!
Check out the theme nights schedule and times below for more information.
| | | | |
COUNTDOWN TO SINGLE MATCH TICKETS
Your Insider pre-sale for single match tickets starts in 4 days! Stay tuned for your
exclusive code
| | |
GET SINGLE MATCH
GROUP TICKETS
Take your matchday to the next level with exclusive group experience -- get closer to the action, snap a group photo, and create memories that last
| | | |
The Valkyries 2026 season schedule, presented by Kaiser Permanente, is officially here. What began as a statement year is evolving into something even bigger. From electric matchups to can't-miss home dates, this season builds on last year’s success while opening the door to what’s next.
New season. New opportunities. Same relentless energy.
Be sure to keep an eye out for mini-plans and
single-game ticket announcements!
| | |
Keep an eye out for upcoming mini-plans and single-game tickets. Want a more personalized experience? Email us at ticketing@valkyries.com to connect with a dedicated account representative.
continued...
| | |
"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
| |
|
Steve Young -- from the
Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
| |
I met former 49ers quarterback Steve Young at a dental convention where he signed autographs at a vendor booth.
We made a small minimum purchase of dental supplies and he signed a football for me and included “HOF ‘05.” For a larger purchase he would have signed a 49er jersey.
Steve was very nice to all the folks he signed autographs
with and took time to answer questions.
Rich Yee, Sports Today photographer
| |
Hardly Trivial by T. Buff | |
If This Record...
was NOT tied or broken in Super Bowl LX,
you will NOT get this relatively easy question!
Which quarterback threw the most touchdown
passes in one Super Bowl game?
Two hints: It occurred in Super Bowl XXIX
with a combined total of 75 points,
which still stands.
Answer below...
| |
Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 170: Charlie Baker Says The Rules Are Clear (They Aren't, And The NCAA
Created This Mess)
| | |
by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration
The Weekly Longer NIL Thought
| | |
NCAA president Charlie Baker spoke with Patrick Forde of Sports Illustrated this week and made some fascinating comments about schools backing eligibility lawsuits. According to Baker, these schools are "saying they don't want to play by the same rules everyone else is."
He went on: "It makes the rules disingenuous, when they aren't. The rules are clear here. The lines are drawn."
Are they, Mr. Baker?
Because from where I'm sitting, the rules haven't been "clear" in college athletics for years now. And the confusion Baker complains about? The NCAA created it.
Let's start with the case at hand. Alabama is playing Charles Bediako (full disclosure: I am part of Bediako's legal team), a player who previously competed for the Crimson Tide before entering the NBA Draft, going undrafted, signing multiple NBA contracts, and playing in the G League. He got a temporary restraining order. A preliminary injunction hearing will be held after this volume of the newsletter is published.
Now, Amari Bailey, who played 10 NBA games in 2023-24, has declared his desire to play college ball next season despite allegedly being ineligible under current rules. His five-year window is technically still open, but the NCAA says no. So he'll likely sue. Or if Bediako wins, precedent gets set and the floodgates open (according to Baker).
I suppose that Baker is right that these cases set some sort of persuasive precedent nationally. That's how the legal system works. But what Baker fails to acknowledge is that the NCAA has spent decades making rules that are arbitrary, inconsistently enforced, and designed to benefit the association rather than the athletes it purports to serve.
The rules aren't "disingenuous." They're just bad, ambiguous, and not evenly applied.
continued...
| | |
WeatherTech Raceway
Laguna Seca
| |
Bonhams|Cars Announces New Venue for Monterey Car Week Sale - WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca
Los Angeles, CA. - Bonhams|Cars has signed a multi-year agreement with WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca to host its Monterey Car Week sale, extending an already existing 15-year partnership. The Bonhams|Cars sale will now play an integral part of the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. The auction will take place on Thursday, 13 August, with the preview beginning during the Pre-Reunion race weekend that kicks off Monterey Car Week on Tuesday and Wednesday 11 and 12 August 2026.
| | |
San Francisco Unicorns Appoint
Cameron White as Head Coach
Proven leader and ex-Australia international promoted and given year-round remit to guide Unicorns to success
in fourth Major League Cricket season
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (JANUARY 26, 2026) — The San Francisco Unicorns today announced the appointment of Cameron White to the role of Head Coach, rising from his previous position as Assistant Coach.
The former batting all-rounder, who represented Australia in all three formats and captained them in both T20 and ODI formats, while also being the youngest ever Australian to captain their state, was part of the Unicorns’ setup during the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) season. In his capacity as Assistant Coach, White earned plaudits for his tactical acumen and commitment to developing domestic talent in training environments. White succeeds his countryman Shane Watson, who led the Unicorns through their first three seasons.
Alongside his existing commitments as Head Coach to BBL side Melbourne Renegades, White will play a new, year-round, hands-on role with the Unicorns’ franchise in preparation for the 2026 MLC season, taking the lead on performance decisions, underpinned by the team’s proprietary data-led approach, for the league’s fourth edition long before players arrive for camp.
continued...
| |
REGISTRATION OPENS FOR THE
2026 ROLEX BIG BOAT SERIES
| |
SAN FRANCISCO, CA—The Notice of Race is posted and registration is open for the 62nd edition of Rolex Big Boat Series, hosted by St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco, California. In addition to four days of highly competitive racing in select classes, this year’s event also serves as the 2026 ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) North American Championship.
Scheduled for September 16-20, 2026, this iconic regatta, held on the challenging waters of San Francisco Bay in the shadow of Golden Gate Bridge, invites the following to compete:
- One design boats of the J/88, J/105 and Express 37 classes. Other classes with a minimum number of entries may be considered with application to the Organizing Authority.
-
ORC monohulls with a LOA ≥ 30 feet. ORC boats are required to have a current valid ORC International certificate issued by any national rating office. US boats can apply HERE.
- Classic boats built using traditional wooden plank-on-frame construction with a LOA ≥ 40 feet and a current ORRez rating certificate. For the avoidance of doubt, cold-molded construction boats shall not qualify.
| Hardly Trivial Answer by T. Buff | |
Steve Young
Super Bowl XXIX
So many trivia questions could be farmed from
this game! I won't do it until next year.
Hopefully the better team won!
Go Celtics!
Go Pats!
| |
No. 4 Cal Captures 13-12 Win
At No. 16 UC Davis
Julia Bonaguidi Ties Career High With Four Goals In Tight
Win Over Aggies
DAVIS -- The No. 4 California women's water polo team utilized a seven-goal scoring run in the first half to build a lead on host No. 16 UC Davis, then held off the Aggies for a 13-12 win today at Schaal Aquatics Center. Julia Bonaguidi led the Golden Bears with a career-high four goals, and goalie Talia Fonseca had nine saves to help Cal to 7-0 overall.
continued...
Photo: Ross Turteltaub
| |
Prystajko Punches Out 10
in 7-2 Win
Cardinal moves to 5-0 with victory over California
STANFORD, Calif. – Zoe Prystajko had a career day, striking out 10 in five innings to lead the No. 18 Cardinal to a 7-2 win over California this afternoon. Taryn Kern continued her hot start to the year at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a pair of runs scored as Stanford moved to 5-0 on the season.
The Card came out swinging in the first inning. Prystajko struck out three in the opening frame, with a single stranded in between. Then in the home half of the frame, Stanford opened with four-straight hits to set the tempo.
continued...
| |
Spartans Fall 1-0 in Pitching
Duel Against Cal
STANFORD, Calif. - Delaney Faus pitched six innings while only allowing three hits and one run to lead San José State softball (1-4, 0-0 MW) in a 1-0 loss to Cal (1-3, 0-0 ACC), in the final game of the Stanford Invitational.
The contest was a defensive stalemate for much of the morning, with both teams remaining scoreless through the first five innings. The Spartans’ defense was sharp, committing zero errors throughout the contest.
Cal broke the deadlock in the bottom of the sixth inning when Kyndal Todd hit a sacrifice fly to drive in the game's only run.
continued...
| | Saint Mary's College Gaels | |
WTEN | Saint Mary’s Falls to Boise State in First Meeting Since 2011
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. - Saint Mary's and Boise State met for the first time in 15 years but the Broncos would come away victorious, sweeping the Gaels 7-0 in their first of two matches down in San Luis Obispo.
The Gaels nearly grabbed the doubles point but fell in a narrow tiebreak with Sofia Daryaie and Tiana Fox in the first match followed by another close 6-4 defeat with Madison Weekley and Elif Tiana Gunal.
continued...
Photo by: Saint Mary's Athletics / Tod Fierner
| |
Gaels Prevail Over Dons in Moraga
MORAGA, Calif. - Suiting up for a late night national showdown, the University of San Francisco (USF) men's basketball team (14-12, 6-7 WCC) battled to the final buzzer, but Saint Mary's (21-4, 10-2 WCC) defended home court on Saturday, securing a 79-54 victory over the Dons at University Credit Union Pavilion.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:
-
Junjie Wang got the scoring started on an assist from Legend Smiley to begin the ballgame, giving San Francisco a 3-0 lead to open the contest. Saint Mary's (SMC) countered with a 10-2 run courtesy of Mikey Lewis and Paulius Murauskas, but David Fuchs responded with an early three-pointer to keep the Gaels' lead at two, 10-8, with 15:25 to go in the first half.
continued...
Photo by Jezrael Gandara
| |
Softball Loses to Grand Canyon
in Pitcher's Duel
PHOENIX – Taryn Batterton and Cari Ferguson each went the distance but in the end, Batterton came up on top in the pitcher's duel to lift Grand Canyon to a 1-0 victory over Santa Clara softball on the final day of the GCU Kickoff Classic on Sunday.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
- Batterton quieted the Santa Clara bats striking out 10 batters and giving up just a pair of hits and a walk to earn her second win of the weekend that saw Grand Canyon (5-0) go undefeated in five games.
continued...
Photo: GCU Athletics
| | University of Pacific Tigers | |
No. 20 Women’s Water Polo Bounces Back with Two Wins Sunday
TEMPE, Ariz. – A pair of strong performances for the 20th-ranked Pacific women's water polo program resulted in wins of 17-7 over UC Santa Barbara and 19-8 over Cal Lutheran on Sunday in the final day of the Arizona State Tournament at the Mona Plummer Aquatic Center.
continued...
| |
Grimes Tosses Complete Game; Aggies Hold Off Late Charging Gaels
Score: UC Davis 3, Saint Mary's 2
Winning Pitcher: Caroline Grimes (3-1)
Losing Pitcher: Ella Thurman (1-1)
Location: Davis, Calif. (La Rue Field)
Records: UC Davis 3-2, Saint Mary's 2-3
The short story: Behind a dominating complete game performance by senior pitcher Caroline Grimes, UC Davis softball wrapped up its weekend hosting the 2026 NorCal Kickoff by holding off Saint Mary's late to secure a third win in four games for the Aggies.
continued...
| | Cal State University East Bay Pioneers | |
Pioneers' 6-0 Win Leads to Tournament Title
LAKE ELSINORE, Calif. — No. 17 Cal State East Bay closed out a perfect weekend Sunday at Rosetta Canyon Sports Park, defeating Colorado Mesa 6-0 on the final day of the 2026 D2 West Coast Challenge. Behind dominant pitching and a decisive offensive stretch in the middle innings, the Pioneers completed a five-game sweep to claim the tournament championship and improved to 9-1 overall.
continued...
| | | | |
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, February 9, through
Sunday, February 15, 2026
| | |
Monday, February 9
Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies, 7 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ New Orleans Pelicans, 5 p.m.
Tuesday, February 10
Wednesday, February 11
Golden State Warriors vs. San Antonio Spurs, 7 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ Utah Jazz, 6 p.m.
Thursday, February 12
Friday, February 13
Saturday, February 14
Sunday, February 15
NBA All Star Game, 2 p.m.
| | |
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
| | |
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.
| | | | |
