|
September 28 -- October 4, 2026
Issue No. 661
| | |
San Francisco Giants
Profile: Maria Jacinto --
Director of Broadcasting & Media Services
| |
Above is Maria Jacinto, the longtime charming Director of Broadcasting & Media Services for the San Francisco Giants. Maria started working for the Giants before the 1989 season, a great year to get involved as the Giants won their first pennant in 27 years.
Maria is one of the hardest working and helpful PR people I’ve ever worked with and we’ve had some good ones, including Raymond Ridder, who has been with the Warriors for 28 years, Bob Rose, who was the PR Director when the Giants moved into their new ballpark, and Jay Alves, who took care of us media schlubs during the A’s brilliant years in the late 1980s and early 90s.
What is the secret to Maria’s longevity, which has now stretched through 38 seasons? Hard work, a low profile and total professionalism. It has been a pleasure working with her all these years.
| |
* * *
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.
| | |
James Joyce
February 2, 1882 -- January 13, 1941
| | |
Note: 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
Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
| | |
Contents
Games
Cal Bears 10, Clemson Tigers 24
Golden State Valkyries 70, Seattle Storm 57
Oakland Roots SC 3, Phoenix Rising SC 0
Features & Commentary
Billy Martin, A Fighter, by Bruce Macgowan
I Knew That, (Part Two), by Andy Dolich
Maria Jacinto, San Francisco Giants, by Bruce Macgowan
Newsletter, Image, Likeness, by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Opposing Offensive Strategies & Quandaries, by Carl Macki
Sammy Baugh, from the Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
| |
|
San Francisco 49ers 36, Arizona Cardinals 30
Levi's Stadium
Sunday, September 27, 2026
With a much-depleted D-Line, the 49ers awaited Jacoby Brissett and Arizona. Arizona received, but Renardo Green frustrated a would-be TD pass and forced a punt. Deebo Samuel Jr. then ran for an 82-yard TD after Mike Evans flipped him the ball on a nifty play. (7-0 S.F.) Arizona punted and #13, QB Brock Purdy would hit Mike Evans with a picturesque TD pass (14-0 S.F.) In the 2nd Quarter, AZ moved the ball and a 26-yard FG and a subsequent FG made it (14-6 SF). With 26 second left in the 2nd Quarter, Pineiro hit a 57-yard FG for a (17-6 halftime) lead.
The Niners started the second half with Purdy, Kittle, Kaelon Black runs and passes, topped by a McCaffery leap in the endzone for a TD. (23-6 after a missed Pineiro FG). Arizona erupted with Jerimayah Love's runs and a TD to Michael Wilson (23-13 SF), and injured 49ers continued be carted off the field. A 49ers punt bounced off a 49er and a Brissett to Love TD made it (23-20 SF). The Niners came back with gusto with Purdy passes to Kittle, key plays by Black and Deebo and a TD pass to Kittle (29-20 SF) (and another missed FG). After Brissett and ex-Niner Kendrick Bourne's well-run 68-yard drive, it was (29-27 SF) and tension mounted. San Francisco responded with vintage CMC runs and a Purdy to Kittle TD (36-27 SF). A 49-yard Cardinals FG made the score 36-30, but Deebo snagged the onside-kick attempt to end the game at (36-30, 49ers). The depth and the tenacity of the entire 49ers' squad deserves major credit for this hard-fought victory over a determined rival.
Watch All The Action Here!
San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals| Week 3, NFL 2026
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ngu-tT0PQs
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.cce-mcle.com/aboutus
mcle@msn.com
| |
Opposing Offensive Strategies
& Quandaries
Have An Opinion?
| |
49ers Skipper Kyle Shanahan and Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson make fascinating subjects for a study in contrast and comparison because few coaches better demonstrate how a shared offensive foundation can produce
strikingly different systems.
Both speak much of the same offensive language:
pre-snap motion, play-action deception and a
running game designed to make every call
strengthen the next.
Shanahan favors disciplined outside-zone structure,
bootlegs and clearly defined quarterback reads;
Johnson counters with a broader running menu,
rotating backs, inventive personnel packages
and greater freedom to adapt.
Their methods differ—but both aim to keep defenses
reacting instead of thinking.
-- 49ers Afterword --
Shanahan's Creativity, With a Side of Suspense
Kyle Shanahan supplied the imagination; Arizona supplied the anxiety. The 49ers’ 36–30 victory moved them to 3–0, but this was a reminder that an inventive offense can win a game without making the afternoon comfortable.
The opening touchdown offered a wonderfully cheeky illustration of Shanahan’s approach: Brock Purdy threw to Mike Evans, who lateraled to a racing Deebo Samuel. A routine-looking completion became an 82-yard scoring play. The deception depended on coordinated timing—one player drawing attention while another arrived to exploit it. Football choreography, with considerably more bruising.
Yet Arizona’s comeback made the larger lesson less celebratory. Purdy’s late touchdown pass to George Kittle helped secure the outcome, but the offense had to keep answering. For our continuing look at coaching and cohesion, Sunday offered both promise and a warning: Shanahan’s attack can manufacture opportunities beautifully; the whole team still has to turn those opportunities into control. Undefeated is an excellent result. Comfortable remains a work in progress.
MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL
Philadelphia Eagles at Chicago Bears — Monday, September 28,
5:15 p.m. Pacific (PDT), on ABC and ESPN.
Monday’s coaching matchup comes with an immediate test of adaptability. Caleb Williams is out with a hamstring injury. Tyson Bagent has cleared concussion protocol, while Case Keenum handled much of the week’s preparation; Sunday’s update left Chicago’s starting choice unresolved. Ben Johnson must build confidence and scoring opportunities around the quarterback available to him.
Watch how Johnson connects the running game, motion and passing opportunities. Chicago rushed for 281 yards against Philadelphia last season, and Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has made stopping that ground attack a priority. The tactical contest within Johnson versus Nick Sirianni is therefore Johnson versus Fangio: can Chicago create manageable downs before Philadelphia forces its replacement quarterback into predictable passing situations?
For Eagles' Coach Mick Sirianni, the challenge is coordinating the whole response: defensive discipline, offensive efficiency and sound decisions when the game tightens. My watch points are simple: which team wins on first down, which coach adjusts when the opening plan stalls, and which sideline avoids turning an ordinary mistake into a costly sequence. Johnson’s imagination deserves attention; so does Sirianni’s ability to keep every unit contributing. Clever plays make highlights. Cohesion has to last four quarters.
Conceived and illustrated by Carl Macki. Comments?
Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
| |
Golden State Valkyries 70
Seattle Storm 57
Chase Center, San Francisco, CA
Saturday, September 19, 2026
| |
Exuberant fans enjoyed the Golden State Valkyries' dominant 70-57 victory over the Seattle Storm on Saturday night at
Chase Center in San Francisco.
| |
The scoreboard recorded the good news as the Valkyries drew a sold-out crowd of 18,064 for the team’s last home game
of the regular season.
| |
Valkyries forward Kayla Charles was the team's top
scorer with 16 points for the night.
| |
Kaitlyn Chen added 10 points, two assists,
one steal and 2-5 from three.
| |
The pursuit of Violet continued as another devotee
made themselves known.
| |
Violet, the captivating mascot of the Golden State Valkyries, has been described as a near-sighted, booty-shaking, glitter-hoarding, purple raven. With no lack of avid pursuers!
To view a photo album, visit www.ultimatesportsguide.net
All photos and captions by Rich Yee. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8UOT-qXhs8
| For Violet Day, September 25, Golden State Valkyries mascot Violet (left) celebrates with Golden State Valkyries president Jess Smith (center) and San Francisco mayor Daniel Lurie as the Valkyries flag is raised on the steps of San Francisco City Hall. (Valkyries president Jess Smith was the winner of the 2025 WNBA Business Executive Leadership Award presented by Deloitte.) Photo by Ed Jay. | |
The Golden State Valkyries Violet Day rally and flag-raising was held at Frank Ogawa Plaza in Oakland on September 25.
Photo by Ed Jay
| |
Golden State Valkyries Announce Violet Day On September 25
The Golden State Valkyries announced that Violet Day will take place on September 25, a regionwide celebration of the team before its first game of the 2026 WNBA Playoffs presented by Kaiser Permanente featuring flag-raising ceremonies in Oakland, San Francisco and San Jose, violet-lit landmarks, themed specials and discounts at various local businesses across the Bay Area.
“Violet Day is a celebration of this incredible team making history –again— and the extraordinary community that powers us,” said Jess Smith, President of the Golden State Valkyries. “This region built this movement. On September 25, we want everyone to wear Valkyries violet, support local businesses, and bring the spirit of Ballhalla to all corners of the Bay.”
continued...
| |
“I Knew That!"
(Part Two)
| |
Scorbeboard Disparity in
the Sports World
by Andy Dolich
Early in this college football season we saw scores run up when power teams bring in their favorite patsies with names we might not know to get a guaranteed win.
James Madison Duke Dogs 87, Wagner Seahawks 3
Louisiana Tech Bulldogs 80, Northwestern State Demons 6
Miami (FL) Hurricanes 77, Florida A&M Rattlesnakes 7
I thought it might be time to look at our sports landscape to check out the biggest beatdowns in the world of ball.
| Chicago Bears blow out Washington 73-0 in 1940 to win NFL title in biggest rout in pro football history. -- New York Daily News | |
NFL -- 73-0 -- The 1940 Championship game when the Chicago Bears defeated the Washington Redskins by a slim margin.
NBA -- 73 Points -- The largest scoring disparity in an NBA game is 73 points when the Memphis Grizzlies defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder, 152–79, on December 2, 2021.
WNBA -- 59 Points -- Set by the Minnesota Lynx in a 111–52 rout of the Indiana Fever on August 18, 2017.
MLB -- 31 Runs -- The Chicago White Stockings (now the Chicago Cubs) defeated the Cleveland Blues, 35–4, on July 24, 1882. This baseball season the largest margin of victory was the Milwaukee Brewers defeating the Seattle Mariners, 22-0, on August 18, 2026.
NHL- 15 Goals -- I remember it like it was 1944 when the Detroit Red Wings edged out the the New York Rangers, 15-0, on January 23, 1944
| |
College Football -- 222 Points. As you clearly remember back in 1916 when the Rambling Wreck of Georgia Tech pulled out a nail biter against Cumberland College 222-0.
NCAA Men's Basketball -- 94 Points. Overtime wasn't necessary when Utah defeated Mississippi Valley State, 143–49, on November 8, 2019.
NCAA Women's Basketball -- 141 Points (not a misprint). Grambling State defeated the College of Biblical Studies, 159–18, on January 2, 2024.
PGA Golf Major Championships: 15 Strokes. Tiger Woods holds the record for the largest margin of victory in a major championship with his 15-stroke victory at the 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach.
|
Stanford v. California 1918 Big Game Program
-- The Game That Never Was
| |
The Big Game -- 67 Points: 67-0 in 1918 when the Cal Golden Bears roared past Stanford 67-0 in 1918. In the modern age it went to Stanford who beat Cal, 63-10, in 2013.
(The 1918 game is not considered an official game because Stanford's football team was composed of volunteers from the Student Army Training Corps stationed at Stanford, some of whom were not Stanford students. In 1919, Stanford officially switched back to playing 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.
| |
Cal Bears 10
Clemson Tigers 24
Memorial Stadium, Berkeley, CA
Friday, September 25, 2026
| |
On the fourth play of the game, under pressure, Clemson threw a pass intercepted by Cal defensive back Isaiah Crosby (#23). The University of California Golden Bears played host to the Clemson University Tigers in an ACC Conference game at Memorial Stadium in Berkeley on Friday evening,
September 25, 2026.
| |
The Play of the Game --
Cal's defensive back Aiden Manutai (#14) trips up freshman Tiger quarterback Tait Reynolds who fumbled the ball...
| |
...and Cal's Kamar Mothudi (#3) picked up the loose ball and scampered 39 yards for a touchdown with five minutes to go
in the first quarter, giving Cal an early lead.
| Defense was the name of the game and kept the Golden Bears close to Clemson in the first half. Above, defensive lineman Jericho Johnson (#44) lets out a huge roar of success in celebrating of a tough defensive stop. (At first glance, Kamar Mothudi (#3), right, appears to have lost his jersey number.) | |
Billy Martin -- A Fighter
by Bruce Macgowan
| Billy Martin famously argued with umpires and was known for his explosive temper and fiery ejections | |
The tension was palpable when I trooped into manager Billy Martin’s office after his A’s lost a narrow decision to the visiting Detroit Tigers. Billy rarely enjoyed meeting with reporters after games anyway. Especially after losses. Billy’s eyes were bleary and he had a sour look on his face like the unhappy inebriate slumped over on his stool in the bar.
There was a good 10-15 seconds of uneasy silence as reporters looked intently at their notebooks as if they were studying bugs. Finally, I broke the tension by asking the first question.
“Billy, the A’s have really been struggling lately,” (they had just lost their eighth of ten games.) Is there any one problem you can attribute that to?”
Billy slowly looked up at me, his face screwing into a tight frown.
“Yeah, there’s three fucking things wrong: We’re not hitting, we’re not fielding and we’re not pitching. Any other stupid questions?" he snorted sarcastically.
Undaunted, I followed up with two more questions which he actually gave thoughtful answers to but when I was about to ask him a fourth question he cut me off.
“Is this a fucking one-on-one interview because if you want one of those you shoulda come here before the game. You see these other assholes standing here? They gotta ask me their dumb questions too. This is what we call a press conference. You know what that is, don’t you?”
I smiled and backed off. I didn't mind being browbeaten or even embarrassed by a coach or an athlete in front of my peers. It came with the job.
To continue -- click here!
| | |
Oakland Roots SC 3
Phoenix Rising SC 0
Oakland Coliseum, Oakland, CA
Saturday, September 26, 2026
| | Tyler Gibson, Oakland Roots SC midfielder (12), steals the ball from Phoenix Rising SC midfielder Juan-Eric Moursou (13) at the Oakland Coliseum on September 26, 2026 (@streetwisephotos/Tyler Morris). | |
The Roots Activate
‘Beast Mode’
By Tyler Morris
| |
The Oakland Roots found their magic on the pitch under the lights of the Oakland Coliseum Saturday night. In their match against Phoenix Rising SC, the Roots went on a fierce offensive that capitalized in a 3-0 win for their next to last home game this season. Magic struck first for the Roots in the 7’ when defender Jesus De Vicente sent a surgical pass to Bruno Lapa who then struck the back of the net.
The Roots turned full ‘Beast Mode 510’ when Berlin Jacquesson drove hard up the Phoenix left side and drilled a masterful cross to Danny Trejo who immediately converted the attack into a goal. Oakland hasn’t been able to show off Trejo’s full potential as he did on the pitch against Phoenix because he has been recovering from an earlier season hamstring injury.
Both teams would enter half time with the score frozen at 2-0. As the match resumed, Phoenix did their best college try to get past Oakland’s back field. Kendall McIntosh held firm in his position as goalkeeper and denied Phoenix any satisfaction in the second half. Phoenix wouldn’t be able to muster any response once the Roots performed their last act of the night.
Berlin Jacquesson in the 71’ cemented the Roots win with a crowd-pleasing strike to the right corner of the net. The Roots seemed to find a winning attack combination in Jacquesson and De Vicente that proved potent on the pitch.
| Oakland Roots SC forward Danny Trejo (99) blocks Phoenix Rising SC forward JuanDavid Torres (70) from redirecting the ball near the Roots goal. (@streetwisephotos/Tyler Morris). | Oakland Roots SC goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh (1) swoops on the ball to deny Phoenix Rising SC forward Ishan Sacko (7) a goal. (@streetwisephotos/Tyler Morris). | Oakland Roots SC midfielder Wolfgang Prentice (7) challenges Phoenix Rising SC defender Daniel Flores (87) for a loose ball. @streetwisephotos/Tyler Morris. | |
Roots midfielder, Tyler Gibson, had this to say when asked about the teams performance, “When people cover your back, you’re willing to take chances. If you react well, and everyone reacts well, that’s when a team comes together.”
Even though it’s the tail end of the season, it was quite the sight to see as the Roots demonstrated what they could be next season as Coach Ryan Martin’s vision is finally coming together.
|
Oakland Roots SC forward Danny Trejo (99) is embraced by defender Jesus De Vicente (11) after Trejo scores the Roots’ second goal in the match. @streetwisephotos/Tyler Morris.
| |
|
Letters to the Editor continued...
| The President's Cup, Medinah Country Club, 2026 | |
U.S.A. Wins
2026 Presidents Cup
| |
America's come-from-behind win marks the largest final-day comeback in the Presidents Cup. Entering the final day of competition at Medinah Country Club down 10.5 to 7.5 to the visiting International Team, the U.S.A.'s individual efforts across the 12 singles matches led the team to victory, 17 to 13.
Let's hope the team spirit carries over to the next Ryder Cup, scheduled for September '27 in County Limerick, Ireland, the 100th anniversary (centenary edition) of the
biennial tournament.
Ryder Cup: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryder_Cup
Robert A. Moselle, Esq.
https://www.cce-mcle.com/aboutus
mcle@msn.com
| | |
Go ahead and MAKE our day! Lovely Annie did and she hasn't stopped. Hurrah! Don't be shy --
donate & join her!
Click here!!!
| | |
Don't Miss Out!
As of Monday, September 28, 2026
over 17,922 guests have visited our remarkable new site for sports updates and outstanding photography.
Don't be left out!
Click:
www.ultimatesportsguide.net
| | |
Enjoying our Website? Need a Website Designed with a
Sports Flavor or Other?
Talented Medhavee Upadhyaya can help!
Awards:
| |
|
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.
| |
Clubhouse leader Webb honored to win Willie Mac Award
By Maria Guardado
SAN FRANCISCO -- As the longest-tenured Giant, Logan Webb is well-versed in the significance of the Willie Mac Award.
The prestigious honor is presented annually to the most inspirational player on the Giants, with San Francisco players, coaches, trainers, clubhouse staff and fans voting to determine the winner each year.
Webb finished runner-up for the prize three years in a row, though he didn’t necessarily expect to be recognized by his teammates after an uneven 2026 campaign.
While his performance on the mound didn’t meet his standards, Webb was heartened to learn that he was still voted the winner of the 2026 Willie Mac Award, a sign of the deep respect he commands in the Giants’ clubhouse.
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
| | |
Are you looking for an opportunity in Sales?
The Ultimate Sports Guide seeks talented souls to join our growing company in a Sales capacity. Social Media knowledge and skills a Big Plus!
If you like Sports, consider joining the USG Team. Send along your resume and get ready
to Play Ball!
Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
p.s. -- The handsome gentleman above is a
regular at USG's Central Coast office.
| | A's trio eye 2027 roles in standout performances in final series opener | | |
by Martín Gallegos
WEST SACRAMENTO – The Athletics entered 2026 hopeful that this final series against the Astros to end the regular season would have major playoff implications.
Everything is certainly on the line for the Astros, who came into Thursday’s series opener tied with the Rangers for first place in the AL West. For the A’s, their goal of contending for the postseason did not come to fruition, but the chance to knock out a division rival does bring some value.
That extra intensity was felt throughout Thursday’s 7-5 A’s loss to Houston at Sutter Health Park. The A’s overcame an early three-run deficit with four runs in the third on back-to-back homers by Jeff McNeil and Zack Gelof. Ultimately, an unlikely source did them in: Astros rookie Lucas Spence launched the first three home runs of his career in a five-RBI night.
“They’re playing for their lives right now,” Gelof said of the Astros. “We’re trying to do our best to play really good baseball and not have [them make the playoffs].”
Let’s take a look at three key A’s players from Thursday’s defeat and their outlook for next season:
continued....
| |
|
Ballers Fam,
The 2026 season may be over. We may have fallen short of our playoff goals. But we are somehow still beaming. Why?
Because when we look back at all of the magical moments that happened at Raimondi Park this season, there is one constant: You.
Win or lose, we made history together. 51 Themes, 51 Giveaways, 51 opportunities to celebrate Oakland baseball with you, and the vibes, the noise, the energy you delivered all season long were off the charts.
This season we brought 116,524 fans to Raimondi Park in West Oakland, which was a 5% increase over last year’s historic regular season gate. We can’t thank you enough for showing up.
| |
Your participation matters here. And we want to keep this sacred mission to preserve Oakland baseball going forever. You are the key to that. If you had fun at Raimondi Park this season, tell a friend. Tell your family. Make sure to spread the word and bring people with you next season. Because if you experience the Ballers just one time, you’re hooked!
And if you buy 2027 season tickets, they are now stackable. Meaning you can go solo to 48 games or take 48 friends to one game. Or take a friend to 24 games. Sharing is caring and the season tickets come with key discounts that are worth checking out.
continued...
|
Brock Purdy was named NFC Offensive
Player of the Week vs. Dolphins
|
What the 49ers and Dolphins Had
to Say After Week 2
Sep 21, 2026 at 04:56 PM
Brooke Evans / Digital Editor
The San Francisco 49ers opened their 2026 home slate with a 35-13 win over the Miami Dolphins at Levi's® Stadium, improving to 2-0 on the season. San Francisco scored touchdowns on each of its first five offensive possessions, while the defense registered four sacks, and kept Miami out of the end zone until late in the fourth quarter.
Here's what both teams had to say following the contest:
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan on QB Brock Purdy's performance:
"He was real sharp. He was on point, got the ball to all the right spots... He was great today."
Shanahan on Purdy's completion to WR Mike Evans:
"That was a keeper... There were two guys waiting on Mike, too, and Brock just, he stayed with him, waited for him to clear him and it was a perfect ball. If it wouldn't have been a perfect ball, it would have been an interception because the guy was looking to undercut it. He just faded it over the top of him. It was a dime."
Shanahan on the continued growth he's seen from Purdy:
"I thought he had his best training camp, just in terms of being aggressive with things, but not stupid. Still making the right efficient decision, but when there's a chance of things being aggressive, and I've seen that here these last two weeks. I think the more he plays, just with experience, the easier defenses come to recognize and things like that. But he played so good right away that it's not like, 'Oh, he's so much better in this area.' I just think you gradually become a vet and get used to everything that you've seen. You're used to every situation you've been in. You've been up, you've been down, you've seen everything people have thrown at you. You just get more used to it."
Shanahan on TE George Kittle and RB Christian McCaffrey:
"Both of them were great. They usually are. The first half it was good, but it was frustrating. There hasn't been many times I feel like you only have two possessions in the first half. So, we were excited to get the ball on the first play of the third quarter... They brought a double corner blitz, which opened the middle up, and George saw it and took it, which was a hell of a job seeing. You can see how explosive he was after the catch and how hard he is to bring down. Then on Christian, same stuff. Christian had a hell of a day and big accomplishment. I think they just told me getting his 100th touchdown."
Shanahan on the defense's performance:
"Especially in the first half, Miami did a hell of a job controlling the ball. They really ate up the clock. That's why I think they got three possessions, we got two. But, I thought we did a hell of a job keeping them out of the end zone."
continued...
| |
The Taste of the K Taco:
Found at Kansas City Royals games is a $25 creation which uses two cheeseburger quesadillas as the “tortilla,” then loads them with a charred Vienna hot dog, barbecued beef brisket, french fries and Sriracha-spiced Cracker Jacks.
| |
Maybe it is sensory overload from the overall taco, but diners would have loved for the Cracker Jacks to have more Sriracha dominance. It is a fun addition, though, and many enjoy munching on the popcorn which falls off tacos.
-- Steve Chain / Innovative Food Fanatic
(Have a food item to share with our Food Fanatic?
Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com)
| |
Warriors To Celebrate Don Nelson With “Nellie Night”
Golden State Will Honor Hall Of Fame Head Coach On October 6th vs. Los Angeles Lakers
| |
September 18, 2026 12:02 PM PDT
The Golden State Warriors will honor Hall of Fame head coach Don Nelson with “Nellie Night” when the team hosts the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 6 in the Warriors’ first home preseason game of the 2026-27 season. The game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m.
The evening will celebrate Nelson’s legacy with former Warriors players and members of Nelson’s family in attendance, special in-game tributes and in-arena offerings, including:
- All fans in attendance will receive a commemorative “Nellie” pin upon entry.
- Souvenir “Nellie Night” beer koozies for 24-ounce cans, featuring logos from Warriors teams coached by Nelson, will be available for purchase at select locations in limited quantities.
- In a nod to Nelson’s 1,335 career coaching victories, select eateries at Chase Center will offer the “Nellie Ball Three-Pointer” for $13.35, featuring three Italian-style beef meatballs with roasted tomato sauce, whipped ricotta, Parmesan, garlic breadcrumbs and warm garlic bread.
continued...
|
San Jose Sharks announce Macklin Celebrini as 11th full-time captain
| |
San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) General Manager Mike Grier announced today that the club has named forward Macklin Celebrini as Team Captain. Celebrini becomes the 11th full-time captain of the organization, and becomes the youngest active captain in the NHL.
Celebrini, 20, finished fourth in the NHL with 115 points, tied for fourth with 45 goals and was seventh with 70 assists in the regular season, helping San Jose claim the second-biggest season-over-season improvement in both wins (+19) and standings points (+34) in team history, the league’s 10th-biggest year-over-year improvement in points and tied for eighth-biggest leap in year-over-year wins in the past 30 years (not counting the shortened 2012-13 to full 2013-14 seasons).
The second-year centerman, who ranked third in the NHL in even-strength goals (37) and tied for third in even-strength points (82), set the Sharks franchise scoring record with his final point of the campaign, a goal that capped a three-point effort in the final game of the regular season. He completed the campaign factoring into 46.2-percent of all Sharks goals, the second-best such mark in the league this season and best ever by an NHL teenager or any San Jose skater.
The Sharks went 26-6-2 on the season when Celebrini scored a goal, were 37-18-5 when he registered at least one point and boasted a record of 26-3-2 in his multi-point efforts. His 82 even-strength points and 37 even-strength goals were the most ever in a single campaign by a Shark, his 18 three-point efforts tied Thornton for most by a skater in any of the team’s 35 seasons and his 31 multi-point contests tied for the second-most games with two or more points in a season in Sharks history. Celebrini finished 56 points ahead of the team’s next-closest scorer, the widest gap for any NHL team’s top scorer to its second-ranked since 1990-91.
continued...
| | |
Valkyries' Explosive Offense Earns First Ever Playoff Win Over Wings
Sun, Sep 27, 2026, 8:10 PM
The Golden State Valkyries' highest scoring game in franchise history propelled them to their first playoff win, defeating the Dallas Wings 104-80 at Chase Center on Sunday night. Eight different players connected from beyond the arc to tie the Valkyries all-time high of 18 3-pointers made in a game.
Cecilia Zandalasini, Tiffany Hayes and Gabby Williams all scored over 20 points with a total of five players reaching double figures. As a team, the Valkyries recorded their fewest turnovers this season with four.
continued...
| |
Valkyries Name Tegan Ashby SVP, Basketball Strategy and Innovation
Ashby Brings A Decade Of Strategy And Data Analysis To Golden State
The Golden State Valkyries have named Tegan Ashby as Senior Vice President, Basketball Strategy and Innovation, it was announced today. Ashby, who has nearly 10 years of data analysis and development experience across both the NBA and MLB, will report to Valkyries General Manager Ohemaa Nyanin.
"Tegan is passionate, tactical and thoughtful, and she leads with humanity," said Nyanin. "She brings a unique depth of experience in strategy, innovation and building and managing teams across multiple sports front offices. Her leadership is going to make a meaningful impact for our team."
In this role, Ashby will oversee roster strategy by developing and executing both short-term and long-term strategic plans for all player acquisitions and negotiations. She will also build and support cross functional information between the scouting and analytics departments, as well as oversee the creation and maintenance of advanced data systems for the basketball operations team.
Ashby joins the Valkyries from the Philadelphia Phillies where she served as the Director, Software Engineering, Baseball R&D for over three seasons. From 2021-2023, Ashby served as Senior Developer, Basketball Systems for the Brooklyn Nets where she created applications and data visualizations that elevated the team’s player evaluation, game planning, film study, and roster decisions. She also spent three seasons with the Philadelphia 76ers as a Developer of Research & Development where she built front office decision tools that assisted with roster evaluations and draft preparations. Ashby is also the founder of the Women in Sports Data Symposium, one of the largest and most diversely attended events in sports analytics.
Ashby double majored in linguistics, and Near Eastern languages & civilizations at the University of Pennsylvania.
continued...
| |
MATCH RECAP:
Earthquakes 3, Portland Timbers 1
Saturday, Sep 26, 2026
Quakes shut out Timbers behind Preston Judd brace and three Eduard Löwen goal contributions to conclude homestand on six-game unbeaten streak; San Jose rises to third in Western Conference; Black and Blue head to international break with next road match vs. Colorado Rapids on Oct. 10
SAN JOSE, Calif. — Preston Judd netted a first-half brace and Eduard Löwen was involved in all three goals as the San Jose Earthquakes defeated the Portland Timbers 3-1 on Saturday night at PayPal Park to extend their unbeaten streak to six league matches and rise to third in the Western Conference table.
San Jose opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Eduard Löwen’s cross from the right wing was headed by Preston Judd past Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis for his team-leading 14th goal and a 1-0 Earthquakes lead.
The Black and Blue doubled the advantage in minute 24 when Timo Werner laid a ball off for Beau Leroux and the midfielder dribbled forward into the box before pushing a short through ball for Löwen in the left-edge of the six-yard box. Löwen subsequently blasted it for the near post over Pantemis’ right shoulder to make it 2-0.
San Jose tripled the score in the 29th minute when Paul Marie received the ball in the box in the right half-space. He cut back and flicked a cross for Judd, who volleyed it in from the center edge of the six-yard box to make it 3-0 before halftime.
David Da Costa pulled one back for Portland in the 86th minute when he took in a through ball from Eric Izoita and fired from close range into the back of the net for the final 3-1 margin.
The full “Quakes Replay” of tonight’s match is scheduled to air Wednesday, Sept. 30, at 8 p.m. PT on KTVU Plus. For highlights, analysis and features, fans can also watch the new half-hour magazine show “Quakes Exclusive,” which will next air on Friday, Oct. 2, on KTVU Plus at 8 p.m. PT and KTVU FOX 2 at 8:30 p.m. PT.
The Black and Blue now head into the international break next week before returning to MLS play on the road against the Colorado Rapids on Saturday, Oct. 10. Kickoff from DICK’s Sporting Goods Park is slated for 6:30 p.m. PT with the match to be broadcast on Apple TV (English/Spanish), as well as via local radio on KSFO 810 AM (English) and La Kaliente 1370 AM (Spanish).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHEVJA0HF84
continued...
| | |
Match Recap:
Bay FC 1, Orlando Pride 3
SAN JOSE, Calif. (Sept. 27, 2026) – Bay FC fell 3-1 to the Orlando Pride Sunday at PayPal Park. Orlando scored minutes after the opening whistle to start each half, while Bay FC answered its early deficit with an equalizer from forward Racheal Kundananji in spectacular fashion in the 11th minute. Bay FC pushed to level the scoreline late but wouldn’t be able to earn another before the final whistle sounded. The result gives Bay FC the chance to play spoiler for the remainder of the season as it is eliminated from playoff contention.
Orlando opened the scoring quickly with a goal just 90 seconds after kickoff from midfielder Haley McCutcheon. Bay FC punched back right away, putting pressure on their foes and taking control of the tempo. Kundananji nearly leveled the contest two minutes after the opening score, but her close-range effort from a cross on the back post was denied by the goalkeeper.
Kundananji made no mistake with her second opportunity, leveling the scoreline with a diving header. After play cycled back across from a corner kick, midfielder Claire Hutton placed a perfect cross toward the back post for the Zambian to tally her third of the season.
Late changes by head coach Emma Coates helped the club push to equalize late. Forward Keira Barry entered in the 81st minute and nearly scored on a pair of occasions in the final moments, testing her luck from distance on her latter chance and missing high by mere inches. Agostina Holzier, in for Lema at the 68th minute, broke free of an Orlando defender and looked poised to score her first in a Bay FC shirt just a minute later but saw her shot rattle off the woodwork and away from goal.
Bay FC hits the road to the heartland next week, visiting the Kansas City Current at CPKC Stadium Saturday, Oct. 3. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m. PT, and the match will broadcast live on ION. The contest is the final match ahead of the October international break, after which Bay FC will resume NWSL play against Portland Thorns FC at PayPal Park Oct. 18.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rn0K5XdsgEg
continued...
| | |
SPECIAL LINKS TO BACK ISSUES
Years of Back Issues, Facebook Albums,
Autographs and Haikus
Immediately below is a link to over 655 issues of
Sports Today! which bring to life memories of Bay Area sporting events and the stories behind them. Reclaim memories of titles won and lost and championships reclaimed and slipped away.
Sports Today Links
https://conta.cc/4gnSv3z
Facebook Links
https://conta.cc/4xhiAY1
Autograph Links
https://conta.cc/4cNoW97
Sports Haiku Links
https://conta.cc/3GiUWow
Comments? Write: theultimatesportsguide@gmail.com
| |
|
Sammy Baugh -- from the
Autograph Collection of Rich Yee
| | |
Here is a second vintage photo of Sammy Baugh that I had him sign for me. Sammy Baugh played for the Washington Redskins from 1937-1952. I’ve never seen him play or even heard of him before meeting him at a sports collectors show. He was probably the oldest athlete in the room, which drew my attention to his table. When I saw the vintage photos he was selling, I just had to get him to sign one for me. Later I did my research and found out how truly fascinating this man was.
Rich Yee, Sports Today photographer
| |
|
Newsletter, Image, Likeness Vol. 203: Booker And Murphy Aren't Trying To Cap Coaching Salaries... They Are Trying To Expose A Bill That Will Not..
| | |
by Darren Heitner, Esq.
Founder of Heitnerlegal -- Sports, Entertainment, Trademarks, Copyrights, Business, Litigation, Arbitration
The Weekly Longer NIL Thought
| | Senators Cory Booker and Chris Murphy filed an amendment to the Protect College Sports Act this week that would bar any institution from paying a varsity coach more than $5 million a year, applied to any coaching contract signed after the bill becomes law. | | |
First of all, I do not support this proposal. A federally imposed salary ceiling on college coaches is bad policy for the same reasons a federally imposed ceiling on what college athletes can earn through revenue sharing is bad policy. The federal government doesn't belong in the business of telling a private market what any participant in it is allowed to be paid.
But I do not think Booker and Murphy filed this amendment because they believe Congress should be capping coaching salaries either. Both senators have voted against the Protect College Sports Act at every procedural stage it has cleared this month, and neither has built a public record suggesting he wants the federal government micromanaging compensation in college athletics generally. In my view, and it's purely speculative, what they filed is not a serious policy proposal but instead a question, written into statutory language and forced onto the record, and the question is, if a compensation ceiling on athletes is an acceptable federal intervention, on what theory does that ceiling stop being acceptable the moment it reaches coaches?
continued...
| | |
Uncork The Fun: NASCAR Returns to Wine Country July 10-11, 2027
SONOMA, Calif. (August 26, 2026) – NASCAR racing returns to Sonoma Raceway July 10-11, 2027, bringing the roar of the NASCAR Cup Series to Northern California for a summer weekend of high-speed action, spectacular scenery and the unmistakable flavor of wine country.
Set among the rolling hills and vineyards of Sonoma Valley, the NASCAR weekend will feature two days of racing and entertainment, highlighted by the 38th running of the Toyota/Save Mart 350 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, July 11 and the 5th running of the Pit Boss/FoodMaxx 250 NASCAR O’Reilly Series race on Saturday, July 10.
Coming just one week after the Fourth of July, the 2027 NASCAR weekend offers fans the perfect opportunity to extend their summer holiday with a getaway to Sonoma. With long summer days, great weather, world-class wineries, outstanding restaurants and some of the most picturesque scenery in motorsports, there’s no better time to experience NASCAR in wine country.
“There’s simply nothing like NASCAR in Sonoma, and moving our weekend into the heart of summer makes the experience even more special,” said Brian Flynn, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Sonoma Raceway. “Fans can spend the Fourth of July with family and friends, then make their way to Wine Country for an incredible weekend of racing, food, wine and everything that makes Sonoma such a special destination.”
continued...
| |
ROLEXES AND ORC NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONS AWARDED AT 62ND ROLEX BIG BOAT SERIES
West Coast’s Premier Regatta Featured Four Days of Dramatic Competition in Classic San Francisco Conditions
| |
© ROLEX / Daniel Forster
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. — After four days of thrilling sailing on San Francisco Bay, champions were crowned at the 2026 Rolex Big Boat Series, on September 20, at St. Francis Yacht Club. The top prizes—two Rolex Submariner Date Timepieces, seven perpetual trophies, and the ORC North American Championship titles in four divisions were awarded after a long “bay tour” race for all 81 competitors.
Strong and steady afternoon breezes made for excellent viewing conditions throughout the week for fans spectating from the Race Deck of StFYC’s clubhouse. The scenic red towers of the Golden Gate Bridge framed showstopper finishes, dramatic broaches and parades of spinnakers in full press for the finish line.
“Sailing in this year’s Rolex Big Boat Series while serving as Commodore of St. Francis Yacht Club has been such an incredible honor,” said Susan Ruhne. “This year’s fleet had world and national champions, sailors of all ages from around the globe and a deeply competitive fleet. We are proud to have hosted the ORC North American Championship and showcase StFYC and RBBS as the premier West Coast sailing venue and regatta.”
continued...
| |
Clemson Pulls Away Late To
Defeat Bears
| | |
Cal Drops ACC Home Opener To Tigers
By: Cal Athletics
BERKELEY - The California football team allowed two second-half touchdowns and Clemson earned a 24-10 win over the Bears in front of 41,778 fans at Databricks Field at California Memorial Stadium on Friday.
Bryant Wesco Jr.'s 65-yard punt return for a touchdown with 3:57 left in the third quarter put the Tigers (3-1, 2-0 ACC) in front to stay.
continued...
| |
Warren's Career Night Powers Cardinal to Victory over
Yellow Jackets
Cardinal signal-caller throws for 396 yards and
three touchdowns in win
STANFORD, Calif. — Davis Warren passed for a career-high 396 yards and three touchdowns to lead Stanford in a 34-27 comeback win over Georgia Tech on Saturday night.
Stanford (2-2, 1-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) trailed 20-10 after a Georgia Tech (1-3, 0-1) touchdown in the second quarter, but scored touchdowns on three consecutive drives in the second half after managing only one in the first.
Warren connected with Caden High for a 49-yard touchdown to make it 20-all in the third quarter. One drive later, on fourth-and-11, Warren found Nico Brown in the corner of the end zone for a 33-yard score. Warren hit High on a sweep for another touchdown in the fourth quarter to cushion the Cardinal’s lead, 34-20
“I expect a lot out of Davis,” Stanford coach Tavita Pritchard said. "He is operating this offense at a high level. We put a lot on him. We put run checks on him and protection checks on him, and he's playing at a high level. He's protecting the football
"We coach him hard, and he handles it beautifully. And he's such a leader in that locker room. And I can't say enough about the player he is and is becoming."
continued...
| |
Gilberto Rivera Signs First Team Contract With Houston Dynamo
HOUSTON - Spartan men’s soccer alum Gilberto Rivera has signed a first team contract with Houston Dynamo FC of the MLS for the 2027 season, with club options for the 2028 and 2029 seasons, the club announced on Saturday. He was previously playing for the Houston Dynamo 2 of the MLS NEXT PRO league.
Dynamo President of Soccer Pat Onstad said, “[Rivera] has embraced each step of his development from the collegiate level, to Dynamo 2 and gaining valuable experience in the USL Championship, and has demonstrated the composure and competitive mentality needed to impact the midfield. We are excited to welcome him to the first team and look forward to supporting his continued development.”
continued...
| | Saint Mary's College Gaels | |
MWP | Gaels Take Down DVC 23-4
in Exhibition Contest
MORAGA, Calif. - The Saint Mary's men's water polo team secured an exhibition victory at home over the Diablo Valley Vikings today, 23-4. The match featured fifteen different goalscorers for the Gaels, with appearances from all three Gael goalkeepers in another memorable home match in Moraga.
continued...
| |
Men's Basketball Adds Ryan Boatright to Coaching Staff
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. - Head Coach Chris Gerlufsen and the University of San Francisco men's basketball program announced that Ryan Boatright has been hired as Assistant Coach/Director of Player Development.
"We are very excited to welcome Ryan Boatright to our basketball family here at USF," said Gerlufsen. "Ryan had an illustrious career as a player, dating back to winning a national championship at UConn in 2014. After a strong professional career, I'm thrilled to have Ryan bring his experience and wealth of knowledge to our program and players. I know Ryan is eager to start building relationships here on the Hilltop."
continued...
| | Schoennauer's Brace Leads Women's Soccer to Victory in WCC Opener | | |
Box Score
SAN DIEGO — Santa Clara women's soccer defeated San Diego 3-1 on Saturday in the West Coast Conference opener. The Broncos (5-2-4, 1-0 WCC) got a brace from Kennedy Schoennauer and outshot the Toreros 19-7 and 9-4 in shots on target.
Santa Clara turned early pressure into two first-half goals, with Addie Whitehouse scoring in the 24th minute before Schoennauer put the Broncos back in front in the 28th minute after the Toreros (3-5-2) had tied it. The Broncos generated six shots and two corner kicks during nine-minute attacking stretch, then added four more shots after taking the 2-1 lead. Santa Clara carried that 2-1 advantage into halftime.
continued...
| | University of Pacific Tigers | |
Tigers Drop 1-0 Decision in West Coast Conference Opener
Against LMU
| | |
STOCKTON, Calif. – The Pacific women's soccer team turned up the pressure in the second half, but a strong offensive push came up just short, dropping a 1-0 decision to LMU on Saturday night at Knoles Field in the West Coast Conference opener.
Despite giving up an early goal, the Tigers (1-9, 0-1-0 WCC) mounted a flurry of attacks late that saw potential for a tying goal but could not breakthrough against the Lions' (2-5-2, 1-0-0 WCC) defense.
continued...
| |
Savkin, Mueller Reach Finals In Singles And Doubles
Davis, Calif. — Ivan Savkin and Aiden Mueller reached the finals of their respective singles flights while teaming up to get to the finals of the blue flight for doubles on Saturday at the UC Davis Aggie Invitational.
Savkin took care of Menlo College's Robin McAlpine (6-4, 6-3) in the quarterfinals and came back to defeat Aggie teammate Nadaul Cheam (2-6, 6-1, 6-3) after dropping the opening set. Savkin will take on Sebastian Vlahos of Sacramento State in Sunday's finals.
Aiden Mueller won both of his quarterfinals and semifinals matches in straight sets on Saturday, defeating Sacramento State's Nick Bowles (7-5, 6-0) and Saint Mary's Bastien Maxant (6-1, 6-4). Mueller will face Nevada's Gregoire Valente in Sunday's finals.
continued...
| | |
Cal State University East
Bay Pioneers
| |
Pioneers Sweep Top 15 in 3K
at Chabot Twilight
LIVERMORE, Calif. – The Cal State East Bay men's cross country team swept the top 15 finishing positions in the 3K at the Chabot Twilight, led by an individual victory from Phillip Logan.
Logan led the way for the Pioneers, crossing the finish line first with a time of 8:32.71. Yosef Amaha followed in second at 8:57.88, while Nestor Alvarado took third in 9:01.06.
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, September 28, through
Sunday, October 4, 2026
| | |
Monday, September 28
Tuesday, September 29
Wednesday, September 30
Golden State Valkyries @ Dallas Wings, 6 p.m.
Thursday, October 1
San Jose Sharks vs. Florida Panthers, 7 p.m.
Friday, October 2
Golden State Valkyries vs. Dallas Wings, (if necessary)
Saturday October 3
San Jose Sharks vs. LA Kings, 7 p.m.
Oakland Roots SC vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC, 6 p.m.
Bay FC @ Kansas City Current, 3:30 p.m.
Cal Bears @ UNLV Rebels, 12:30 p.m.
Stanford Cardinal @ Wake Forest Demon Deacons, 9 a.m.
San Jose State Spartans @ Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, 9 p.m.
Sunday, October 4
San Francisco 49ers vs. Denver Broncos, 1:25 p.m.
Las Vegas Raiders vs. Kansas City Chiefs, 1:25 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, Howard Pearlstein, Amaury Pi-Gonzalez, T. Buff, Shelia Young. Dave Newhouse (dec.)
Software Engineer / Sports Today! Editor: Medhavee Upadhyaya
Technology Advisors: Silas Everett, Gaurav Chaulagain
Staff Photographers: Jeff Bayer, Alex Ho, Ed Jay, Ron Sellers, Darren Yamashita, Rich Yee, Kenny Karst (retired), Elliott Smith (dec.)
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. | | |
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.
| | | | |
