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January 26 -- February 1, 2026
Issue No. 626
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"All the world's a stage, and all the men merely players in the NFL." (Wm Shakespeare, As You Like It, thank you.)
The matchup for Super Bowl LX is officially set, and for the second time in NFL history, it will feature the New England Patriots versus
the Seattle Seahawks.
Sunday saw two intense, but completely different playoff games. The New England Patriots defeated the Denver Broncos 10-7 in the AFC Championship Game. The teams combined for the second-lowest point total in AFC title game history. Blizzard-like conditions in Denver demanded solid defense, and New England responded with its third straight dominant game in the playoffs. The Broncos scored on their second possession of the game, but after that, the Patriots' defense was dominant.
In the NFC game, which featured two teams which the San Francisco 49ers beat in the regular season, Sam Darnold threw for a season-high 346 yards and three touchdowns to lead Seattle to a win over the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams' high-powered offense didn't disappoint, but a huge stop on a fourth down play from Seattle's six-yard line in the fourth quarter sealed a 31-27 win in this dynamic, action-packed contest.
So, Super Bowl LX, at Levi's Stadium, will feature the AFC's highest-scoring offense going up against a Seahawks defense that gave up the fewest points in the NFL this year AND the NFL's third-highest scoring offense in Seattle going up against a Patriots defense that surrendered the fourth-fewest points in the league this year. A great AFC offense vs. a great NFC defense? A great AFC defense vs. a great NFC offense? Shakespeare would be hard-pressed to match this Super Bowl LX script!
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Trifecta Approval!
I enjoyed reading the three articles about the 49ers game against the Seahawks. All three authors realized the 9ers were undermanned through injuries, but gave it all they had. (To enjoy, click Sports Today #625)
Steven Cornell
Oakland, CA
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Applause From Afar:
It is such a joy receiving The Ultimate Sports Guide/Sports Today. The sports commentary and photography are exemplary. Those readers in the Bay Area are so lucky at the wide variety of coverage. Here in my Santa Barbara home makes me aware your circulation reaches so many so far away.
Best,
Nick Curran
Former Director of Public Relations,
National Basketball Association
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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
In this issue 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:
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Contents
Games
Cal Bears (MBkB) 78, Stanford Cardinal 66
Cal Bears (WBkB) 78, Stanford Cardinal 71 (OT)
Cal Bears (WGYM) 196.050 , North Carolina State Wolfpack 195.575
Golden State Warriors 127, Toronto Raptors 145
Features & Commentary
Gabriela Isler, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
Hardly Trivial, by T Buff
Harlem Globetrotters, by Rich Yee
John Brodie, by Bruce Macgowan
Kuminga Back From Exile: Kerr Excited?, by Dave Newhouse
Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.
San Francisco Giants FanFest, by Rich Yee
Settling the Greenland Dispute on the Greens, by Andy Dolich
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
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Hole 9 at the scenic Nuuk Golf Club
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Settling the Greenland Dispute on the Greens
by Andy Dolich
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The front-page headline from The New York Times on Thursday, January 22nd reads "Trump Says He Has an Outline of a Greenland Deal."
I’m not privy to the insider diplomatic discussions that have generated headlines all over the world on the President’s pursuit of owning Greenland.
The following Greenland solution could apply to one of the Presidents' greatest strengths on a competitive platform and will solve once and for all who has the rights to the autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and their 57,000 inhabitants.
| | President Donald J. Trump | | | |
1. President Donald Trump is a fantastic golfer. During his career as a businessman, politician and real estate developer, he began acquiring and constructing golf courses in 1999. By 2016 he owned 17 golf courses worldwide through his holding company, the Trump Organization. Mar-a-Lago is his favorite course.
2. Donald Trump played approximately 300 rounds of golf during his first four-year term (2017–2021). As of mid-2025 of his second term, he had already made over 70 visits to his golf courses.
3. Greenland has one golf course which is near the capital of Nuuk. It is the Nuuk Golf Club, pronounced “nook” -- as in book-- golf course. The nine-hole course is a par 33. During the winter months club members play inside the clubhouse on golf simulators.
4. Denmark believes it is the rightful owner of Greenland.
5. The finest golfer from Denmark is Thomas Bjorn, having won fifteen tournaments worldwide on the European Tour. In 1997 he also became the first Dane to qualify for a European Ryder Cup team. He captained the winning European side in 2018.
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Teeing Up The Solution
NATO, working with the United Nations; the U.S.A., represented by President Donald J. Trump; and Denmark, represented by Thomas Bjorn, present this solution to the ongoing dispute.
In the spring President Trump and Thomas Bjorn will play nine holes at Mar-a-Lago in a televised event run by the PGA. In the summer they will play nine holes at the Nuuk Golf Club.
The World Golf Association can decide what the President's handicap will be, if he chooses not to play scratch. They will also be the governing body for the match in Greenland.
The winner of this head-to-head match will have the final decision on how the future of Greenland will be played out.
| | | | 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. | | Napoleon runs a double-post offense as he executes a fast break from the opposition, come hell (Elba) or high water | | | |
Kuminga Back
From Exile:
Kerr Excited?
by Dave Newhouse
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Whether it's sports or life itself, situations you can't resolve sometimes resolve themselves. Right, Steve Kerr? Agree, Jonathan Kuminga?
Until last week, Kuminga was the Napoleon of the NBA, banished by his ruling party, the Warriors, to the bench, a court-side Elba.
And Kuminga sat from Dec. 18 until Jan 20, a total of 16 games, without seeing action, Napoleon planting wine grapes or whatever.
Then opportunity arose in the worst possible way. Jimmy Butler tore his right ACL in Miami, thus his season was over. Likewise, perhaps, the Warriors season as well.
Kerr, who had basically abandoned Kuminga, Napoleonesque, now reached out to him in an emergency. And Kuminga, amazingly displaying little rust, poured in 20 points in a losing effort in Toronto.
He followed up with 10 points in six minutes in another losing conquest, this time in Dallas. He was caught smiling at times, most likely the joyous reaction of playing again.
But how happy is he? Or, for that matter, how happy are the Warriors playing him once more? Ah, the great unknown meets the unexplained quandary.
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Steve Kerr is all smiles as he faces Jonathan Kuminga,
an NBA All-Bench first-team selection.
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Kuminga is a talented basketball player, no question. He can score with ease, for he is so athletic. He reminds us of Andrew Wiggins in that regard, and Wiggins now is a Warrior alumnus, employed by Miami.
So is Kuminga exiting the same way, with the NBA trade deadline Feb. 5? Or in losing the valuable Butler, do the Warriors, especially Kerr, see Kuminga in a different light, perhaps as a season savior?
The Warriors haven’t yet thrown in the towel as far as the post-season, though it’s close by in the laundry basket. The Warriors are in a desperation mode, so why not try something different, i.e., Kuminga.
There is serious interest in him elsewhere, starting with the Sacramento Kings and joined by the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and Chicago Bulls.
The 23-year-old Kuminga, already a five-year NBA veteran forward, signed a two-year $48.5 contract with the Warriors as a restricted free agent, with a team option for 2026-27.
What Kuminga must now be weighing, besides the money, is his undefined relationship with Kerr. Why did the coach cast him aside for so long? Then forced to play him in Miami, Kerr said he “stayed prepared and got his opportunity, and played really well.”
Got his opportunity? Kerr is a decent man, no doubt, but his relationship with Kuminga is, in a word, strange. Why did Kerr bench him for a month or, if Butler didn’t go down, bench him for the season? There is more to be learned about this strained relationship.
The only, more immediate, explanation will come if Kuminga is no longer a Warrior by Feb. 5. Or if he’s still a Warrior next season, how was that situation resolved?
I just had a seance with Napoleon. He wants to know, too.
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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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Golden State Warriors 127
Toronto Raptors 145
Chase Center, San Francisco, CA
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
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Curry's time was wisely limited to 25 minutes as this was a back-to-back game. He still tallied 16 points, but Golden State was outscored in this lopsided 145-127 contest.
Photo and caption by Ed Jay.
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Jonathan Kuminga (#1) had not played since December 18 and scored 20 points in only 21 minutes. With Jimmy Butler III no longer in the lineup after a season-ending injury, the Warriors hope that JK can become a key contributor.
Photo and caption by Ed Jay.
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Buddy Hield (#7) had one of his most productive games as a Warriors, with 25 points. His 3-point prowess was on full display.
Photo and caption by Ed Jay.
| Versatile big-man Quinten Post, the "Dutch Master" scored 12 points in the Dubs loss. Gui Santos, (#15) above, had one of his best games as a Warrior. Photo and caption by Ed Jay. | Draymond Green’s shot is blocked by Raptors all-star Scottie Barnes. Barnes scored 25 points and the Raptors were unstoppable. Photo and caption by Ed Jay. | |
Stephen Curry warms up with assistant coach Bruce Fraser prior
to the game. Steph's pre-game routines have become fan-favorites! To view a photo album, visit our
Facebook Page at www.ultimatesportsguide.net.
Photo and caption by Ed Jay.
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John Brodie
by Bruce Macgowan
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It had been a rough day for San Francisco 49er quarterback John Brodie. As he trudged slowly off a scarred, muddy field at Kezar Stadium, he could hear the familiar caws of the descending seagulls who were soon gobbling up the leftover scraps.
Unfortunately, he also heard more familiar sounds.
“Brodie, you bum! You’re terrible!”
The powerful Baltimore Colts had just finished humiliating the 49ers again, and this one was especially tough to swallow because a good portion of the country had seen it on national TV. Some fans were still hanging out and were in a foul mood.
Brodie’s cohort, the great Johnny Unitas, jogged up to his side and the two enjoyed a few moments of camaraderie as they walked off the field. Both men were beat up, the sweat had barely dried and they knew that tomorrow was going to be a rough day climbing out of bed. Brodie still wore his helmet but Johnny U. was carrying his by his side.
“Hey Brode, why are you still wearing your helmet?” asked Johnny U.
Brodie let out a rueful chuckle and gestured toward the stands above the tunnel where they were headed. Two dozen or so angry, half-drunk fans were leaning out over the edge, about 15 feet above them, heaping verbal abuse and throwing objects.
“John, put your helmet on,” Brodi said. “Otherwise, you might get hit by something.”
Brodie knew all too well as he had sometimes seen half full whiskey and beer bottles whiz dangerously close by his head after games.
While Brodie had to endure much abuse during the prime of his career at doughty old Kezar Stadium, he eventually earned the fans’ respect. Seventeen years of playing in the NFL usually does the trick. But there were some rough years throughout the 1960s, and though they played many exciting games, the 49ers lost as many as they won. So John Brodie became the fans’ favorite whipping boy.
“We want Mira!” or “Put in Spurrier” my dad and I used to hear angry fans scream when things weren’t going so well.
Sometimes the likes of stars such as Gale Sayers and Bart Starr would carve up the Niners, and Brodie had to work hard to make up the difference on the other side of the ball.
Though unappreciated for years, Brodie set numerous passing records and showed great courage by staying in games after being leveled by the likes of the Rams’ fearsome star Deacon Jones, or the mammoth “Big Daddy” Lipscomb of Baltimore.
| Brodie was named the NFL Most Valuable Player in 1970 after leading the 49ers to a 10–3–1 record and their first playoff appearance in 13 years. He led the team to three consecutive NFC West divisional titles but lost each time in the playoffs. Brodie retired ranked third in career passing yards in NFL history. | |
Fortune finally smiled on Brodie late when at age 35, he guided San Francisco to the first post-season berth of its 25 years of existence. Brodie threw 25 TD strikes in 1970 and was sacked just EIGHT times as the 49ers finished 10-3-1. Suddenly the boos became cheers.
Although they fell to hated Dallas in the NFC Finals, Brodie earned MVP honors and kept the magic going a little longer.
San Francisco won two more playoff berths the next two years with Brodie rescuing his team in the final regular season game of the 1972 season.
Fighting off another injury, Brodie came off the bench at age 37, threw the game winning TD in the final seconds and then was carried off the field.
In later years we’d run into Brodie at Candlestick Park or Stanford Stadium and he’d also appear on TV from time-to-time as one of the better golfers on the Senior Pro Tour.
I could tell he was a true gentleman when I was asked about those sometimes-nasty Kezar fans.
“Hey, they must’ve liked me because they gave me the one-finger salute," he chuckled.
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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.
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with Concept, Creation, Redesign, Maintenance, Copy, etc.
Recent Site: www.ultimatesportsguide.net
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Harlem Globetrotters
Chase Center, San Francisco, CA
Sunday, January 18, 2026
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San Francisco Giants FanFest
Bishop Ranch, San Ramon, CA
Saturday, January 24, 2026
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The San Francisco Giants FanFest drew a record crowd of over 12,000 fans to Bishop Ranch in San Ramon who came to see new manager Tony Vitello and current players.
Photo and caption by Rich Yee.
| San Franciso Giants outfielder Jung Hoo Lee answered questions on stage through his interpreter as the "Jung Hoo Crew" chanted his name. Photo and caption by Rich Yee. | Lou Seal was a popular attraction at the FanFest and could be seen entertaining and posing with fans. Photo and caption by Rich Yee. | |
Giants fans were all smiles as they met with players, got autographs and enjoyed the fun-filled atmosphere.
Photo and caption by Rich Yee.
| Autograph seekers waited in line for hours for a chance to meet their favorite players. Photo and caption by Rich Yee. | The three Giants World Series trophies were proudly on display for fans to take photos with. Photo and caption by Rich Yee. | |
Pure Class on four wheels was on display honoring #27,
San Francisco Giants of Hall of Fame pitcher Juan Marichal, a nine-time All-Star who pitched for the Giants from 1960 to 1973.
To view a photo album, visit our
Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net.
Photo and caption by Rich Yee.
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Cal Bears 78
Stanford Cardinal 66
Maples Pavilion, Stanford, CA
Saturday, January 24, 2026
| Cal Bears forward John Camden scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds as the Bears (15-5, 3-4 ACC) defeated the Stanford Cardinal (14-6, 3-4 ACC), 78-66, at a sold-out Maples Pavilion on Saturday, January 24th. Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita. | |
Cal guard Justin Pippen contributed 18 points and six assists.
Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita.
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Stanford guard Jeremy Dent-Smith led the Cardinal with 20 points while adding four rebounds and three steals.
Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita.
| Pippen (left) led the Bears defense to limit Cardinal standout freshman guard Ebuka Okorie to a 1-for-16 shooting night. Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita. | |
A fan with mixed allegiances cheers during the second half.
To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net. Photo and
caption by Darren Yamashita.
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Cal Bears 78 (OT)
Stanford Cardinal 71
Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA
Sunday, January 25, 2026
| Cal Bears guard Lulu Twidale scored ten of her 24 points in overtime as the Bears (12-9, 3-5 ACC) defeated the Stanford Cardinal (15-6, 4-4 ACC), 78-71, at Haas Pavilion on Sunday, January 25th. Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita. | Freshman forward Taylor Barnes finished with 15 points and five rebounds. Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita. | |
Stanford forward Lara Somfai hits a three-pointer with seven seconds remaining to force overtime. Photo and
caption by Darren Yamashita.
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Freshman forward Alexandra Eschmeyer tallied 16 points,
seven rebounds, and four blocks off the bench.
Photo and caption by Darren Yamashita.
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California Golden Bears guard Lulu Twidale (10) celebrates with forward Claudia Langarita (22) after the Stanford Cardinal call timeout during the fourth quarter at Haas Pavilion. To view a photo album, visit our Facebook Page or visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net. Photo and
caption by Darren Yamashita.
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Cal Bears 196.050
North Carolina State
Wolfpack 195.575
Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA
Saturday, January 24, 2026
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San Francisco Giants Casey Schmitt
Schmitt recovering well from
wrist surgery
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.
SAN JOSE, Calif. -- After undergoing surgery to remove the carpal boss in his left wrist on Dec. 2, Casey Schmitt is finally starting to get back into the swing of things.
The Giants’ infielder was cleared to begin a hitting progression last week, and he resumed swinging off a tee under the supervision of head athletic trainer Dave Groeschner.
“Everything felt great,” Schmitt said on Saturday before the Giants’ FanFest Tour stop at San Pedro Square Market. “Groesch had to pull me out of the cage.”
Schmitt said the grip strength in his left hand is already back to 95%. He’s hoping he’ll be back to normal by the time Spring Training begins next month.
continued...
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A's spend weekend embracing Sacramento supporters
This story was excerpted from Martin Gallegos' Athletics Beat
newsletter. To read the full newsletter, click here. And subscribe
to get it regularly in your inbox.
Martín Gallegos
WEST SACRAMENTO -- Ahead of their second year playing in their temporary home of Sutter Health Park, the Athletics spent some time generating excitement for the new season by partaking in several events throughout the area.
Brent Rooker, Nick Kurtz, Jacob Wilson and Tyler Soderstrom made their way around the Sacramento region over this past weekend. The events began on Saturday, when each player mingled with fans at a special season-ticket holder event at Red Hawk Casino. On Sunday, they surprised fans with a visit to the ice rink in downtown Sacramento. The community outreach was capped on Monday, with players and team officials volunteering to collect trash around Sacramento.
“It’s one thing we’ve all been kind of universally impressed with since we got here last year,” Rooker said. “How much we’ve been embraced by the community here. Even with their knowledge that it’s temporary that we’re here before moving on, the way that they’ve embraced us as a city and as fans and as people, the way they’ve treated us and our families has been incredibly special. We’re super appreciative and looking forward to spending the next two years here.”
After Sunday’s ice rink visit, all four A’s were invited later that night to sit courtside at Golden 1 Center for a matchup between the Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers. During the game, the players were introduced at center court and later took part in a meet-and-greet with Kings season-ticket members.
continued...
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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.
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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.
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PayPal Park to Host U.S. Women’s National Team vs. Japan on April 11
USWNT returns to San Jose to face Nadeshiko in international friendly presented by The Home Depot; USA has sold out Earthquakes’ home venue in
each of six previous games
SAN JOSE, Calif. — The U.S. Women’s National Team will take on Japan at PayPal Park in an international friendly presented by The Home Depot on Saturday, April 11 (2:30 p.m. PT). The game will air on TNT, truTV and HBOMax in English and Universo and Peacock in Spanish, with English radio on Westwood One.
The match in the South Bay is the first of three consecutive matches in a weeklong span against Japan, a longtime rival that has been a part of some of the most famous games in USWNT history.
“Japan is one of the best teams in the world,” said U.S. head coach Emma Hayes. “I’m a big admirer of how they play and I have tremendous respect for their team and identity. They are a highly experienced group and are fully committed to their style of football. Playing the same opponent three times is unusual but it presents a great challenge and a chance to test ourselves against a top-quality opponent.” The USA-Japan rivalry is a storied one, dating back 40 years to their first-ever meeting in 1986.
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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.
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MINI PLANS ARE HERE
Get more matches, better value, all season long! Find the mini plan that fits your schedule and score more matchdays with major savings.
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NEVER MISS A BEAT --
SIGN UP FOR SMS
Stay in the know with early access to tickets, exclusive merch deals, club news and more. Text 'Goal' to 415-688-2817 to sign up
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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!
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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...
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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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Gabriela Isler -- from the
Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
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I was visiting New York in 2013 and by chance met Miss Universe Gabriela Isler at one of her public appearances. I waited in a long line to meet her and was thinking what to say to her.
When I finally got up to her face-to-face, she smiled at me and asked me something. I was so mesmerized by her beauty that I forgot what to say. I think I just said hello, took my photo and thanked her. Her smile was burned in my memory ever since.
She’s not an athlete but is a trained flamenco dancer.
Rich Yee, Sports Today photographer
| Hardly Trivial by T. Buff | |
NFL Quiz
It's an easy one because it's part of the broadcaster discussion with the New England Patriots win...
Just so I can't ask the question later, the Dallas Cowboys have appeared in the most playoff games with 67!
What team did the New England Patriots break a tie
for the most NFL Playoff game wins in NFL history
with their 40th playoff victory?
answer below...
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Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 168: This Business Is Not For The Faint of Heart
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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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This week has been a reminder that being at the forefront of what is happening in the NIL space isn't for the faint of heart.
I've been involved in several high-profile matters over the past few days, including the matter concerning Darian Mensah in his fight with Duke after he entered the transfer portal despite having a contract in place (and whether the contract at issue is valid and enforceable), Charles Bediako's effort to play immediately for the remainder of the college basketball season after signing NBA contracts (a temporary restraining order was granted Wednesday), and Clemson wide receiver Tristan Smith's pursuit of an extra year of eligibility after the NCAA denied his waiver despite granting similar relief to other former JUCO players (there will be an injunction hearing in the future).
This follows the scrutiny surrounding my representation of Demond Williams, which was covered in a recent issue of this newsletter. That situation drew significant attention as Williams initially sought to enter the transfer portal just days after signing a reported $4 million revenue-sharing agreement with Washington, ultimately returning to the Huskies after I was retained and we worked through the complexities of the situation.
The past week has come with death threats. It has come with hatred directed toward my religion, with people zooming in on my X profile picture that bears a Chai (a symbol of life in Judaism). It has come with sleepless nights as I've worked to advocate for these young men while managing pending litigation where I cannot go into too much depth publicly.
It may sound like I'm complaining. To be clear, I am not complaining. I am letting you in on what it looks like when you stand at the intersection of a billion-dollar industry built on the backs of college athletes and a governance structure that refuses to acknowledge that reality.
Marc Edelman put it perfectly in a recent tweet: "If we want to fix college sports, we need to start looking at the athletes in revenue sports as being the labor source underlying a billion-dollar industry. I am not saying this is what college sports should be. But, this is what they are and have been for some time."
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WeatherTech Raceway
Laguna Seca
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WeatherTech Raceway Completes 2025 Radical Cup Calendar
The 2025 Radical Cup North America season will feature three events alongside America’s premier open-wheel series, with the INDYCAR Grand Prix of Monterey announced as Round 4
| | Story and photo provided by Radical Cup | |
MONTEREY, Calif., Jan. 24, 2025—“Based on the feedback we receive, Radical Cup is a fan favorite at INDYCAR events, especially with our ever-growing Sim Racing community, and we’re delighted to be returning to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for the third year in a row,” said Tom Drewer, Director of the Americas for Radical Motorsport.
“Our reigning Pro 1500 class champion Jordan Missig, who recently secured a full-time ride in INDYNXT with Abel Motorsport, proves that Radical Cup provides an alternative pathway for young, up and coming drivers to the upper echelons of the sport, and having three INDYCAR events in 2025 confirms that message.”
Missig is not the only connection between the Radical and INDYCAR paddocks. Dale Coyne Racing’s Toby Sowery is also a Radical alumni, having won the 2022 Radical World Finals presented by Hankook at Spring Mountain Motor Club and Resort. Sam Schmidt, who until recently was an owner of Arrow McLaren, is a regular in the Radical paddock, watching his son Spencer, who finished fourth in the Pro 1500 class in his rookie year. Indy 500 regular Katherine Legge and INDYCAR legend come steward Max Papis are also friends of the brand, acting as coaches in the Prodigy Racing League which uses Radical SR1 machinery. Then of course there’s six-time IndyCar race winner Graham Rahal, who fields a multi-championship winning team in the Radical Cup via his Graham Rahal Performance/Radical Indianapolis outfit which is also a dealer for the British manufacturer.
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Sonoma Raceway Reveals Full Lineup of Racing
Action For The 2026 Season
SONOMA, Calif. (January 7, 2026) – Sonoma Raceway is set to deliver another thrilling year of motorsports as the track announces its 2026 racing season schedule, featuring a diverse lineup of events that showcase the very best in road racing, stock cars, drag racing and grassroots competition. From international racing series to fan-favorite endurance events, the season promises unforgettable moments in the heart of Northern California’s wine country.
“Our 2026 schedule reflects everything that makes Sonoma Raceway special,” said Sonoma Raceway Executive Vice President and General Manager Brian Flynn. “It’s a season built around variety, passion and world-class competition, and we can’t wait to welcome fans of all ages back to the track.”
2026 Sonoma Raceway Event Schedule Highlights:
March 21–22: 24 Hours of Lemons
A fan-favorite endurance race where creativity, teamwork and humor are just as important as speed.
March 27–29: GT World Challenge America
Elite drivers and premier supercar manufacturers battle for supremacy in one of the most competitive road racing series in the world.
April 17–19: CSRG David Love Historic Car Races
Free admission welcomes fans to experience vintage racing at its finest, featuring an incredible collection of classic race cars.
April 24–26: Sonoma SpeedTour
A celebration of motorsports history as iconic machines from multiple eras take on Sonoma Raceway’s legendary road course.
May 29–31: Velocity Invitational
A marquee motorsports lifestyle event blending rare automobiles, top-tier racing and a premium fan experience.
June 13–14: Raceworz
Two days of high-octane drag racing and drifting bring nonstop action and energy to the track.
June 26–28: Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Weekend
NASCAR’s stars return to wine country for Sonoma Raceway’s premier event and one of California’s most anticipated race weekends.
July 15–16: NHRA Division 7 Drag Races
Regional competitors showcase speed, skill and determination in this fan-friendly drag racing event.
July 17–19: DENSO NHRA Sonoma Nationals
The NHRA’s best unleash more than 22,000 horsepower during a weekend that defines summer in wine country.
July 25: Ferrari Challenge North America
Ferrari’s iconic racing series brings fans up close to precision performance and unmistakable style.
October 10–11: CSRG Sears Point Challenge
Historic racing returns with a weekend dedicated to honoring Sonoma Raceway’s legacy and roots.
December 5–6: 24 Hours of Lemons
The season concludes with another round of grassroots endurance racing and unforgettable moments.
Tickets for the 2026 season, including special kids pricing, as well as camping for select events, are available now at SonomaRaceway.com.
Stay Connected
For the latest updates, event details and behind-the-scenes content, follow Sonoma Raceway on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok (@RaceSonoma).
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REGISTRATION OPENS FOR THE
2026 ROLEX BIG BOAT SERIES
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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.
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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 | |
The New England Patriots broke a tie with the San Francisco 49ers for the most playoff wins in NFL history by securing their 40th postseason victory.
This milestone was achieved during the 2025 season with a 10-7 win against the Denver Broncos in the
AFC Championship game.
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Bears Claim Victory In Home Opener
No. 20 Cal Takes Down No. 18 NC State In Berkeley
BERKELEY – No. 20 California women's gymnastics (6-2, 2-0 ACC) claimed victory over No. 18 NC State Saturday evening in Haas Pavilion, outscoring the Wolfpack 196.050-195.575. Golden Bear Tonya Paulsson claimed the all-around title in her first NCAA meet competing on all four events, while the squad notched three of the four individual event titles. It was Cal head coach Geralen Stack-Eaton's first home win as head of the program.
The Bears started strong in their home venue, posting their highest team score of the season on vault with a 49.075 to open the competition. Casey Brown and Kyen Mayhew each received a 9.850 on vault to tie for first place on the event. Both were season-high scores. Jayden Silvers tied for third in the event with a 9.825, which matched her career-high. Cal led by 0.200 at the end of the first rotation.
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Photo: Peter Fukumae
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Men’s Basketball Falls Late to Cal
Stanford hosted its second consecutive sold-out game at Maples Pavilion
STANFORD, Calif. – A game of large scoring runs that swung in both directions, Stanford men’s basketball fell to rival California, 78-66, at Maples Pavilion. The Cardinal drops to 14-6 on the season and 3-4 in the ACC.
The Cardinal played in front of a sold-out Maples Pavilion for the second consecutive game, marking the first time with back-to-back sellouts at Maples since March of 2008, against Washington and Washington State. The result snapped a five-game win streak for the Cardinal in the series, and a six-game streak at Maples Pavilion dating back to 2020.
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Photo: Bob Drebin/ISI Photos
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Spark Tallies Six Goals In Two Matches Saturday
BERKELEY, Calif.—Darcy Spark was the top goal scorer for the No. 12 San José State women’s water polo team on day one of the Brigette Donner Daws Memorial Invitational hosted by California on Saturday.
The Spartans fell to No. 9 Fresno State, 10-8, in the team’s first match of the day. Spark scored four times, twice in the first and fourth quarters. Jennine Osorio scored twice in the fourth quarter, one goal on a 6-on-4 situation. Sarah Woren scored the first goal of the match, and Emma Ruzic also found the back of the net.
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| | Saint Mary's College Gaels | |
MBB | Gaels Drain Nine Threes
to Sink Pilots, 75-69
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Pilots put up all they could muster against the Saint Mary's Gaels, but when the dust all settled, it was the Gaels who reigned victorious, 75-69 at the Chiles Center Saturday night. The Gaels led for nearly 35 minutes of the contest, and only trailed for 14 seconds, burying shot after shot to curtail every Pilot run.
Paulius Murauskas dropped 24 points, including a perfect 9-9 clip at the line. The junior from Lithuania came up just one rebound shy of a double-double, ripping down nine boards and helping the Gaels to a +10 advantage on the glass. The back court duo of Mikey Lewis and Joshua Dent added 15 and 13 respectively, each draining three threes. Dent added seven assists to lead the Gaels, while Harry Wessels notched his first career double-digit rebounding performance with 10.
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Photo by: UP Athletics
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Edokpaigbe, Taušová, and Cargol Lead Dons Past Tigers
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – Earning its third straight victory, the University of San Francisco women's basketball team (13-7, 6-3) held on to defeat Pacific (8-12, 3-6) 68-61 Saturday afternoon at War Memorial at the Sobrato Center.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:
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Trailing 10-9 at the 2:16 mark of the opening 10 minutes, San Francisco closed the period on a 9-0 run, led by Candy Edokpaigbe and Nataša Taušová, to take an 18-10 advantage into the second quarter.
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Going back and forth at the start of the second quarter, Pacific tied the game at 19, following a 9-1 run at 6:16. The green and gold quickly pushed the margin back to eight, 31-23, with 3:09 remaining in the quarter following a straightaway three-pointer from Aina Cargol.
- The Tigers recorded two free throws with six seconds remaining, trimming their deficit to five, 36-31, at the halftime break.
- Following intermission, San Francisco continued to expand its advantage, pushing it to 44-36 before going on a 5-0 run, punctuated by a three from Taušová, to expand its lead further to 49-36 with 3:36 to go. Pacific battled back, scoring eight straight points, and cut the green and gold's lead to five, 49-44, at the end of the period.
- San Francisco kept its lead intact at the start of the fourth quarter before going on a 7-0 scoring run, finished off by an Edokpaigbe layup, to grow the lead to 56-46 with 6:42 to go in the contest.
- The teams traded baskets in the final minutes as the Dons held on for a 68-61 victory.
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Photo: Christina Leung
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Bukky Oboye flirted with a double-double with 16 points and eight rebounds.
Men's Hoops Continues to Roll With
85-73 Win at San Diego
SAN DIEGO – Santa Clara men's basketball shot an outstanding 63.5 percent from the floor to power their way to an 85-73 victory at San Diego on Saturday evening. The Broncos led by as much as 26 as they completed the regular-season series sweep over the Toreros and improved to 8-1 in WCC play.
Four Broncos reached double figure scoring led by 16 points from Christian Hammond and Bukky Oboye, who also flirted with a double-double with a career high-tying eight rebounds.
HOW IT HAPPENED:
- Santa Clara (17-5, 8-1) set the tempo early with an incredibly efficient opening half that saw the Broncos shoot 65.2 percent from the floor en route to mounting a 12-point advantage at the break.
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SCU jumped out to a 15-4 advantage out of the gate with Sash Gavalyugov burying a deep triple to cap a 6-0 scoring burst that bookend the run. The Broncos maintained the lead for entirety of the opening half and led by as much as 13 with 6:19 remaining.
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| | University of Pacific Tigers | |
Pacific Edges Seattle in Defensive Battle, Improves to 9-0 at Home
STOCKTON, Calif. – Leading from start to finish, the Pacific men's basketball team built an early advantage and held off a late surge by Seattle to win 56–54 on Saturday at the Alex G. Spanos Center.
With the victory, Pacific (14-8, 5-4 WCC) improved to 9-0 at home.
The Tigers were up by 15 at the intermission and 10 with 4:42 left before Seattle (14-8, 3-6 WCC) made a furious comeback attempt. The Redhawks trailed by two and had the ball on the final possession when Pacific forced a contested two-point jumper and pulled down a defensive rebound as time expired.
Pacific asserted its dominance inside where it outscored Seattle in the paint 28-16. The Tigers held a 39-27 rebounding advantage including 11-4 on the offensive glass.
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Aggies Lead Start to Finish in 74-66 Victory Over UC Riverside
Score: UC Davis 74, UC Riverside 66
Location: University Credit Union Center, Davis, Calif.
Records: UC Davis 12-8, 5-4 Big West | UC Riverside 7-14, 2-7 Big West
THE SHORT STORY: UC Davis delivered a dominant performance on Saturday afternoon, leading from tip-off to the final buzzer in a 74-66 wire-to-wire victory over UC Riverside. Four Aggies scored in double figures as the team combined efficient perimeter shooting with stifling defense to secure their fifth conference win of the season.
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| | Cal State University East Bay Pioneers | |
Pioneers Hold Off Otters' Comeback Effort for Fourth Straight Win
HAYWARD, Calif. — Playing at Pioneer Gymnasium on Saturday evening, Cal State East Bay picked up its fourth straight win, outlasting Cal State Monterey Bay 70-67 behind timely defense and late free throws. A crucial block in the final seconds sealed the result as the Pioneers staved off a furious Otter comeback attempt to take sole possession of fifth place in the CCAA standings.
Cal State East Bay opened the game with early energy but found itself trailing by the end of the first quarter. After Monterey Bay edged ahead 15-13, Lucca Lowenberg knocked down a three-pointer to give the Pioneers a brief lead. The Otters responded with the final two baskets of the quarter, however, sending East Bay into the break down 19-16.
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Photo: Justine Willard/KLC fotos
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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, January 26, through
Sunday, February 1, 2026
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Monday, January 26
Golden State Warriors @ Minnesota Timberwolves, 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, January 27
Sacramento Kings @ New York Knicks, 4:30 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Vancouver Canucks, 7 p.m.
Wednesday, January 28
Golden State Warriors @ Utah Jazz, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 29
Sacramento Kings @ Philadelphia 76ers, 4 p.m.
San Jose Sharks @ Edmonton Oilers, 6 p.m.
Friday, January 30
Golden State Warriors vs. Detroit Pistons, 7 p.m.
Sacramento Kings @ Boston Celtics, 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 31
San Jose Sharks @ Calgary Flames, 4 p.m.
Sunday, February 1
Sacramento Kings @ Washington Wizards, 3 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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