Latest Sports Buzz

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• Packers Saftey Collins Apologizes For Confrontation With Fan
• Back Injury Knocks Semenya Out Of Commonwealth Games
• Saints Ink 46-Year-Old Kicker Carney
• Standout Prep Wideout Daniels Commits To Notre Dame
• Cost-Cutting Cal Drops Several Sports Programs, Including Baseball
• Jags Receiver Osgood Has Minor Bruises From Assault
• Carter Nets Pair, Flyers Lead Isles 3-0 Midway Through Preseason Tilt
• Wizards Owner Leonsis Says NBA May Cap Player Salaries
• Bruised Foot Healing, Florida Running Back Demps Likely To Play Vs. `Bama
• Michigan State Guard Lucious Injures Knee; Out 2-6 Weeks

Packers Saftey Collins Apologizes For Confrontation With Fan Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT John Nestor – AHN Sports Correspondent Green Bay, WI, United States (AHN) – The NFL is reviewing an incident between Green Bay Packers safety Nick Collins and a Chicago Bears fan following the Bears’ 20-17 victory Monday night at Soldier Field. WITI-TV of Milwaukee aired footage of Collins yelling at a fan in the stands as he left the playing field. The video clip appears to show Collins throwing his mouthpiece into the stands. “I was made aware of it by our security department. I have not seen the video,” Green Bay coach Mike McCarthy said. “I know the NFL is looking into the matter. I understand Nick’s story as far as what happened and what our security people that were there, and I support Nick 100 percent.” Asked for specifics, McCarthy said the matter was out of his hands and something the league was looking into. “I’m not going to talk about the specifics. That’s a league matter right now,” he said. WITI said Collins apologized for “losing his cool.” “I have an understanding of what happened. I think Nick addressed it after the game. You don’t want to get into interaction, particularly with opposing fans,” McCarthy said. “It is an emotional time, particularly after a game, and I think it’s something that we can all learn from.” Collins, who has been selected to two straight Pro Bowls, not only came up on the losing end in a tight game against a divisional rival, he was also involved in a pair of crucial plays that went Chicago’s way. Collins came up with an interception in the final minutes of the game off of Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, that appeared to wipe out a potential game-winning drive for Chicago. But the pick was nullified by a pass interference penalty on Green Bay safety Morgan Burnett and the Bears eventual drove for the game-winning field goal. Collins was flagged himself earlier in the fourth when he was called for unnecessary roughness on Bears running back Matt Forte. The Bears eventually drove for a game-tying field goal on that possession. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Back Injury Knocks Semenya Out Of Commonwealth Games Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Share John Nestor – AHN Sports Correspondent Johannesburg, South Africa (AHN) – South Africa’s Caster Semenya, the 800-meter world champion, has withdrawn from the Commonwealth Games due to injury Chief Medical Officer Shuaib Manjra said Semenya underwent medical testing in Johannesburg on Tuesday and scans confirmed a back injury will cause her to miss the games to be held in New Delhi from October 3-14. Semenya also confirmed she had been suffering serious lower back pain and had not been comfortable during her last few races. Manjra said the athlete’s well-being and health were priorities and while her absence robbed South Africa of a potential gold medallist, he did not want to risk serious injury with the pending 2011 Athletics World Championships and London’s 2012 Olympics. “It would serve no purpose to have an athlete in Delhi who was struggling with any sort of injury that would compromise performance,” Manjra said. “It is our medical view that physically and emotionally she would not be capable of doing justice to her talent at an event of this magnitude.” Semenya was expected to challenge for gold at the Commonwealth Games since she was cleared to run by the IAAF in July following a gender-test dispute. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Saints Ink 46-Year-Old Kicker Carney Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT AHN Sports Staff New Orleans, LA, United States (AHN) – With Garrett Hartley struggling with his kicking game this season, the New Orleans Saints decided to lean on experience and re-sign placekicker John Carney to a one-year-deal Wednesday. The 46-year-old Carney will be playing for his 22rd season since making his NFL debut with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1987. The Saints reportedly called Carney for a workout after Hartley failed to convert a potential game-clinching field goal n Sunday’s 27-24 overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons. In just three games, Hartley already missed three field goals (4-of-7), enough for the Saints to replace him with the veteran kicker. Carney, a two-time Pro Bowler, made 473 career field goals on 82.4 career percent field goal percentage. He also holds the third highest scoring total with 2,044 points, just behind Gary Anderson and football legend Morten Andersen. Carney, who also served as the team’s “kicking consultant” last season, will have his season debut against the winless Carolina Panthers at Louisiana Superdome Sunday. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Standout Prep Wideout Daniels Commits To Notre Dame Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Share AHN Sports Staff South Bend, ID, United States (AHN) – Notre Dame’s recruiting machine produced another gem Tuesday after receiving a verbal commitment from Illinois top prep wideout prospect DaVaris Daniels. Daniels, the son of Washington Redskins defensive lineman Phillip Daniels, chose Notre Dame over several top-notch football programs, including Nebraska, Michigan, and Miami. Rated by Rivals.com as the No.15 best wideout prospect in the country, the 6-foot-3, 190 pound Daniels is described as a versatile receiver with the knack to flourish in any offensive package. So far this season, Daniels already covered 828 yards of offense (both air and ground) with 12 touchdowns for the still undefeated Vernon Hills football team. Daniels said he picked Notre Dame because of the incredible support he received from Fighting Irish followers, who even brought their recruiting pitch to. “I’m on Facebook a lot and I was hearing from Notre Dame fans all the time about how bad they need me, things like that,” Daniels told Daily Herald Wednesday. “I’ve got a lot of Notre Dame Facebook friends, and I’ve gotten even more since I posted my decision.” Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Cost-Cutting Cal Drops Several Sports Programs, Including Baseball Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor Berkeley, CA, United States (AHN) – The University of California, Berkeley, in its latest move to cut costs, announced Tuesday it will drop five of its intercollegiate sports programs, including baseball, at the end of the 2011 academic year. Citing the economy and decreased state funding, the university arrived at the difficult and painful decision that is expected to result in an annual savings of about $4 million beginning in the next fiscal year. The athletic department of the University of California, Berkeley, has been over budget by about $10 million to $13 million for several years. The move will affect 163 of the school’s more than 800 student-athletes, as well as 13 full-time coaches. It also reduces the number of athletic teams from 29 to 24, including baseball, which Cal has had since 1892. Cal’s baseball team, which won the first College World Series in 1947, has been to the NCAA baseball tournament 10 times, most recently in 2008. The Bears last captured the NCAA baseball crown in 1957. Last season, Cal earned an NCAA regional berth. Cal has also made five trips to the CWS, but has not won a Pac-10 title since 1980. In addition to baseball, which according to Athletic Director Sandy Barbour had the highest net cost to the university among men’s programs, the men’s and women’s gymnastics and women’s lacrosse will also be cut. Meanwhile, the men’s rugby team, winner of 25 national championships since 1980, will be stripped of its varsity status. It will be reclassified as a “varsity club sport,” a new category at Cal. Cal, which has had rugby as a varsity team since 1882, is the only NCAA Division I school that has the sport rugby with that status. Chancellor Robert Birgeneau, who wrote in a letter to the Cal community, indicating that the steady increase of financial support to the university’s 29 team athletics program was “not sustainable” for Cal, said no more teams will be cut. Birgeneau believes that the cuts will allow the university to take a financially sustainable path by 2014. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Jags Receiver Osgood Has Minor Bruises From Assault Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter Jacksonville, FL, United States (AHN) – Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Kassim Osgood was attacked, pistol-whipped and forced to jump out of a second-floor window Monday while visiting a 19-year-old female acquaintance. Osgood, 30, escaped with just some small bruises, despite gun fire exchange between the assailant and the woman. The Florida-Times Union reported Osgood and Mackenzie Rae Putnal were sitting in a second-floor game room around 11:15 p.m. when a man walked in with a plastic bag around his head and said to Putnal, “I can’t believe you’re with that guy.” The police arrested Julian Bartletto, 20, and charged him with aggravated battery, false imprisonment, armed robbery, burglary and violation of an injunction. Bartletto is apparently a former acquaintance of Putnal. Osgood, undrafted out of San Diego State in 2003, has two receptions for 29 yards and a touchdown this season. In 111 games, mostly with the Chargers, Osgood has 35 catches for 676 yards and five touchdowns. Jacksonville (1-2) hosts the Indianapolis Colts Sunday. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Carter Nets Pair, Flyers Lead Isles 3-0 Midway Through Preseason Tilt Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Ed Condran – AHN Sports Correspondent Philadelphia, PA, United States (AHN) – One of the issues the Philadelphia Flyers faced after dealing high scoring but oft injured winger Simon Gagne during the off-season was if they would be able to score enough goals in the forthcoming season. If the preseason is any indication, the orange and black should be just fine when it comes to reaching the back of the net. The Flyers are up 3-0 over the New York Islanders mid-way through the second period Wednesday. Jeff Carter, a prolific goal scorer throughout his five- year career, who was slowed by injury last year, has two goals. Much is expected of winger James Van Riemsdyk, who petered out at the end of his rookie season. The sophomore blasted his first goal of the preseason past Islander netminder Dwayne Roloson. Flyers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky has kept the Islanders at bay. The Isles haven’t had many quality chances thanks to strong Flyer defense. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Wizards Owner Leonsis Says NBA May Cap Player Salaries Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor Fairfax, VA, United States (AHN) – With the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement set to expire after the season, many owners, including Wizards owner Ted Leonsis, are looking at the NHL and their hard salary cap for direction. The Wizards majority owner reportedly indicated to a group of Northern Virginia business leaders Wednesday before the Wizards’ daily training camp session that he expects the NBA to adopt a similar hard salary cap to the one used in the NHL. Leonsis, 53, who is also the owner of the NHL’s Washington Capitals, is well-versed with both the salary cap models employed by the NBA and NHL. Leonsis said: “In a salary cap era — and soon a hard salary cap in the NBA like it’s in the NHL — if everyone can pay the same amount to the same amount of players, its the small nuanced differences that matter,” Sporting News.com reported. Leonsis later pulled back from his comment, saying he was not allowed to speak about the ongoing NBA labor negotiations, but stressed the hard cap system works in the NHL. The said hard cap system is one of the many issues included in the new collective bargaining agreement being forged between the NBA and the union. It was reportedly rejected by the players during last season’s All-Star break. A previous FanHouse report indicated that high-salaried teams in the NBA may be forced to release star players in order to conform to the cap number. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Bruised Foot Healing, Florida Running Back Demps Likely To Play Vs. `Bama Posted: 30 Sep 2010 03:12 PM PDT Kareem Shaker – AHN Sports Reporter Gainesville, FL, United States (AHN) – Florida Gators running back Jeff Demps is out of his protective walking boot and likely to recover from a bruised left foot in time to take on the top-ranked Alabama Crimson Tide Saturday. Demps injured the foot Sept. 18 at Tennessee and tweaked last Saturday during a 48-14 blowout over Kentucky. Also an accomplished sprinter, Demps is the Gators’ leading rusher with 367 yards and two touchdowns on 53 carries. The junior back is versatile out of the backfield, pulling down 11 receptions for 61 yards. An MRI showed no ligament damage or tears, so Demps is likely to return to practice Thursday or Friday. The Gators (4-0, 2-0 SEC) face a tough challenge in defending national champions the Crimson Tide for Week 5. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Michigan State Guard Lucious Injures Knee; Out 2-6 Weeks Posted: 30 Sep 2010 06:26 AM PDT John Nestor – AHN Sports Correspondent East Lansing, MI, United States (AHN) – Michigan State guard Korie Lucious underwent successful arthroscopic surgery for a small meniscus tear in his left knee Tuesday afternoon. The junior is expected to return in 2-6 weeks. “I feel bad for Korie,” said head coach Tom Izzo. “He’s had a great fall on the court, playing some of the best basketball of his time at Michigan State. The injury is similar to the one Goran Suton had during his senior year, and he was able to return in a short amount of time. We expect that Korie will heal in a similar fashion.” Lucious, who averaged 5.6 points last season, had his biggest impact in the NCAA tournament when he drilled a three-pointer at the buzzer to give the Spartans an 85-83 victory over Maryland in a second-round matchup. Michigan State advanced all the way to the Final Four before falling to Butler. This is not the first time Lucious made headlines this offseason as he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor reckless driving earlier this month. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

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Latest Sports Buzz

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• Oufielder Is Important Part Of Twins Winning Span
• Panthers-`Canes Preseason Game Canceled Due To Storm Concerns
• Ping Pong Star Yaping Turns Internet Boss
• Not All Fantastic In Tampa Bay; Rays Lament Poor Attendance
• Ryder Cup Practice Pairings Offer Look Into Friday Teams
• Rachel Alexandra, 2009 Horse Of The Year, Retires
• Flyers` Leighton To Miss Month With Bulging Disk In Back
• Newly Acquired Edwards Could Take Quarterback Job In Jacksonville
• Kimiko Date Krumm Defies Age, Wozniacki, Zvonareva Advance
• Parker Open To Extension, Wants To Remain A Spur

Oufielder Is Important Part Of Twins Winning Span Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT John Raffel – AHN Sports Correspondent Detroit, MI, United States (AHN) – It’s seems strange to Minnesota outfielder Denard Span that his Twins aren’t fighting for their lives in the American League’s Central Division with a week left in the regular season. The Twins have clinched the title already, a far cry from previous seasons when the race went down to the wire. “We want to win every single game,” he said. “You clinch the division but at the same time we want to get home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Every time you take the field, you want to win.” At the same time Span, who was nursing a sore knee on Sunday, emphasized that teams that have clinched don’t want to take any risks for possible injuries as they prepare for the playoffs. “You have to be smart, but our main goal is to go out there and win,” he said. A year ago, Minnesota slipped by the Tigers in a one-game playoff for the divisional title. “It’s a little different for me,” Span smiled. “This is my third September and I’m so used to procrastination and going down to the last two days of the season before we figure what’s going to happen.” Twins manager Ron Gardenhire gave Span and other Twins, including All-Star catcher Joe Mauer, the day Sunday. “He fouled the ball off his foot late in a game and came in pretty sore on his swollen foot,” Gardenhire said. “Our goal is to keep these guys healthy and not end up with more guys beat up. We’re getting thin on players.” But despite the fear of losing one’s competitive edge by playing games that don’t count in the standings prior to the playoffs, Span agreed that there were obvious advantages to clinching early. “It’s just knowing you’re going to be there,” he said. “It makes it a lot less stressful. At the same time, we have to continue to play hard. We want to keep it up and go into the playoffs on a positive note, feeling good.” The Twins, Span insisted, just aren’t going through the motions. Span entered Sunday’s game at Detroit with a .271 batting average with a team-high 602 at-bats, three home runs and 58 RBIs, plus 82 runs scored. “It’s irrelevant,” Span said of his individual statistics. “As a team we’re doing good and that’s all that matters.” Minnesota was locked into a close race with the Tigers at the All-Star break the last two times they met in Detroit. They entered September battling the White Sox for first place and have a whopping 10-game lead over Chicago, which hopes to hold back Detroit for second place. “We had some guys step up,” Span said. “We had some key injuries this year but had guys like (Jim) Thome who stepped up. It’s been a team effort. It hasn’t been just one guy. All year long, it’s been all 25 guys.” Looking ahead to the playoffs, Span expects the Twins to have a legitimate shot to go all the way, as do the other teams that are in the postseason. “It’s whatever team is hot at the time,” he said. “That’s why it’s all about getting into the playoffs. Once you get into the playoffs, anybody can win. When any team is hot at the right time, they’re hard to beat. “We’ve been playing real good baseball this whole second half. Obviously all the teams going into the playoffs like their chances. We feel the same way about our ballclub.” Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Panthers-`Canes Preseason Game Canceled Due To Storm Concerns Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Share AHN Sports Staff Sunrise, FL, United States (AHN) – The National Hockey League announced the pre-season game between the Florida Panthers and Carolina Hurricanes scheduled for Wednesday at BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla. has been canceled due to the threat of severe weather conditions associated with Tropical Storm Nicole. “We felt that it was in the best interest and safety of our fans, our players and the Carolina Hurricanes to cancel Wednesday’s game due to the threat of the impending tropical storm,” said Panthers Executive Vice President/General Manager Dale Tallon. The game will not be re-scheduled. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Ping Pong Star Yaping Turns Internet Boss Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT AHN Sports Staff Beijing, China (AHN) – China table tennis legend Deng Yaping was named the next Chief Executive Officer of the People’s Search Engine Incorporated Company over the weekend. Deng,the former World and Olympic champion, is the new head of the People’s Search Engine, a joint venture Internet project by Chinese media heavyweights, the People’s Daily and People’s Daily Online. Deng, 37, will overlook the development of the Internet search engine called goso.cn. Like other search engines such as Yahoo.com and Google.com, goso.cn also provides search services for web pages, images, news and blogs. Deng has a master degree from the University of Nottingham and a doctorate degree in economics at the University of Cambridge. She also became the Deputy Secretary General of the People’s Daily, the biggest news publication in China, and a member of Beijing Organizing Committee. Considered as one of the greatest table tennis players of all-time, Deng captured six world championships and Olympic titles. Deng retained the No.1 ranking, making her the most decorated paddler in her time. She claimed the title as the best Chinese female athlete of the century and eventually secured her place in the International Table Tennis Federation Hall of Fame in 2003. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Not All Fantastic In Tampa Bay; Rays Lament Poor Attendance Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Share Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor St. Petersburg, FL, United States (AHN) – When just 12,446 fans showed up Monday to watch the Tampa Bay Rays shoot for a playoff berth, infielder Evan Longoria said that the chronically low attendance was “embarrassing.” Monday’s announced attendance was a little more than half of the attendance the Rays have averaged at home this season. Longoria, who did not see action Monday, but vented to media after the Rays’ loss to Baltimore, said: “… You’d pretty much like to think that a team in a playoff hunt, with an opportunity to clinch, that you could at least get 30,000 in here to cheer you on,” USA Today.com reported. “We play 155 games of really good baseball, and it’s kind of like, what else do we have to do to get fans into this place? I mean, it’s actually embarrassing to us,” the Rays All-Star third baseman added. David Price, who has been tasked to pitch the Rays into the postseason for the second time in franchise history Tuesday, echoed Longoria’s sentiments via Twitter, stating that the low fan turnout has been disheartening. Price tweeted: “Had a chance to clinch a post season spot tonight with about 10,000 fans in the stands….embarrassing.” Price, who helped his chances in the AL Cy Young Award race with a strong September, later backtracked, tweeting: “If I offended anyone I apologize I did not think it was gonna turn into this….” Tropicana Field has been the Rays’ home since their inaugural season in 1998, when they were the Devil Rays. The stadium holds about 36,973 fans. Longoria also said he’s been thinking about the Rays’ home attendance for a long time and indicated he was calling out to supporters not as a “low blow at the fans”, but rallying “the troops” in effort to gain more support. “I’m not trying to say that we have bad fans or any of that, because believe me, I’ve been here since ’06 and I love the Tampa Bay community. It’s just tough to see and I feel like I was the right guy to say that,” Longoria told MLB.com. On Monday, Orioles kept Tampa Bays’ champagne on ice, as Brian Matusz (9-12) hurled seven scoreless innings and Nick Markakis drove in a pair of runs in the 4-0 victory. The Rays will again shoot for a playoff spot as they continue their three-game set with the Orioles Tuesday at Tropicana Field. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Ryder Cup Practice Pairings Offer Look Into Friday Teams Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Tom Edrington – AHN Sports Reporter Newport, Wales, United Kingdom (AHN) – Monday was supposed to be a rest-up day for the American Ryder Cup team. Steve Stricker and Dustin Johnson, minus any official uniforms, took to the the 2010 course at Celtic Manor for an early peek at the layout built specifically to host these matches. Tuesday was the first official day of practice, both teams donned their designated uniforms and took the the course in specific groups set forth by American captain Corey Pavin and his European counterpart Colin Montgomerie. Tiger Woods, Steve Stricker, Zach Johnson and Hunter Mahan went out together. It’s not a stretch that Woods will pair with Stricker for some of the four-ball (best ball) and foursome (alternate shot) matches. Pavin may well pair Woods at some point with Hunter Mahan. Woods has spent time around Mahan in PGA Tour practice rounds as both players work with golf instructor Sean Foley. Matt Kuchar, Stewart Cink, Jim Furyk and Jeff Overton played together on Tuesday morning. Furyk is also a potential Woods partner and could be paired with Kuchar, a Ryder Cup rookie. Same with Overton. Overton, who hasn’t played well coming into this week, could be a partner of Cink. Most interesting of the American groups was Phil Mickelson going out with three Ryder Cup rookies- Dustin Johnson, Ricky Fowler and Bubba Watson. The players went off in what may be the weather of the week – overcast with a steady drizzle of rain. The American squad dressed in cream sweaters, gray trousers and gray caps. On the European side, it came as little surprise to see the two players from Northern Ireland -Graeme McDowell and Rory McIlroy playing in a foursome with the Italian brothers – Francesco and Edoardo Molinari. Lee Westwood, who said he’s recovered fully from his calf injury that sidelined him the past five weeks, played with PGA Champion Martin Kaymer, Peter Hanson and the lone Spainiard – Miguel Angel Jiminez. Paddy Harrington went out with Ian Poulter, Ross Fisher and Luke Donald. The matches will begin early Friday morning. Each of the first two days will have four-ball (best ball) and foursome (alternate) shot matches, a total of 36 holes each day. On Sunday, all 12 members from each team go out in singles matches that will most likely determine the winner of the 2010 Ryder Cup. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Rachel Alexandra, 2009 Horse Of The Year, Retires Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor Lexington, KY, United States (AHN) – The 2009 Horse of the Year, Rachel Alexandra, will retire, it was announced by her owner Tuesday. Rachel Alexandra turned heads after her run at Kentucky Oaks. She won all eight starts and the three-year-old filly at the time, defeated three males during her rise. However, Rachel Alexandra would win two of five starts in 2010. “Rachel Alexandra’s 2009 campaign was one for the ages-one that racing fans will remember throughout time,” owner Jess Jackson said in a presser. Alexandra was defeated by one length by Persistently during the Grade 1 Personal Ensign on Aug. 29 Saratoga, although she worked a few times since then, an ESPN.com report said. “I believe it’s time to retire our champion and reward her with a less stressful life. We are delighted that she will retire healthy and happy to our beautiful farm in Kentucky.” “Rachel Alexandra owes us nothing,” Jackson said. “She set standards and records that no filly before her ever achieved. And I suspect it will be quite a while before a three-year-old filly ever equals or surpasses her achievements. Although her fans were thrilled by a series of spectacular victories, I believe they, as we, were simply awed time and again by her sheer beauty, courage and athleticism.” Jackson also said that he would mate his horse Curlin next year with Rachel Alexandra. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Flyers` Leighton To Miss Month With Bulging Disk In Back Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor Philadelphia, PA, United States (AHN) – Philadelphia Flyers starting goalie Michael Leighton will miss a month of action with a bulging disk in his back, it was reported Tuesday. Leighton, 29, was claimed off waivers from the Carolina Hurricanes after a slow start and earned the No.1 Flyers job by posting a .918 save percentage with Philadelphia last season. He recorded 16 wins during the regular season, and posted an 8-3 record in the postseason earning a two-year, $3 million deal in the offseason. Leighton made his league start with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2003, bouncing around the league during his six-year career, including his first time with the Flyers in 2007. He spent time with the Anaheim, Buffalo, and Nashville organization, as well. The Flyers will turn to backups Brian Boucher and Johan Backlund in his absence. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Newly Acquired Edwards Could Take Quarterback Job In Jacksonville Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Corine Gatti – AHN Sports Contributor Jacksonville, FL, United States (AHN) – Quarterback Trent Edwards was claimed off waivers by the Jacksonville Jaguars Tuesday after the Buffalo Bills released him Monday. Buffalo posted a meager 17 points during its first two games with Edwards starting, and he lost his job to Ryan Fitzpatrick after Week 2. Edwards, a third-year pro, threw for 241 yards this season for the Bills and could start for Jacksonville. The move comes after two consecutive losses behind Jacksonville quarterback David Garrard. Garrard threw 13 of 30 for 105 yards with one interception vs. Philadelphia last week in a 28-3 loss. It was the second poor showing for Garrard after throwing four picks against the Chargers in Week 2, where the Jaguars (1-2) lost 38-13. “He wants very badly to play well for his teammates,” Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio told the media Monday. “Two weeks haven’t gone that way for him. Ultimately, you have to get it done and David knows that.” Jacksonville will host Indianapolis in Week 4, and Del Rio said if Garrard is the best option they would go with him. With the addition of Edwards, the Jaguars depth chart includes backup quarterback Todd Bouman, although he hasn’t thrown a pass during regular season since 2005 when he played for New Orleans. Keith Null, who played four games for St. Louis last season, is on the practice squad. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Kimiko Date Krumm Defies Age, Wozniacki, Zvonareva Advance Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor Tokyo, Japan (AHN) – Japanese Kimiko Date Krumm, who became the second-oldest player in the Open era after Billie Jean King to win a singles title on the WTA Tour in 2009, continued to defy age and her younger opponents at the Pan Pacific Open Tuesday. Krumm celebrated her 40th birthday Tuesday defeating Slovak Daniela Hantuchova 2-6, 6-0, 4-0 in the third round of the Pan Pacific WTA Tournament. Krumm, who won the event in 1995 at the expense of Lindsay Davenport, brushed aside a tentative start and proceeded to claim the next 10 games in the second set leading to the third stanza. The Japanese ace went on to build a 4-0 lead before the 27-year-old Hantuchova decided to call it a day. Krumm is coming off a stunning victory over defending champion Maria Sharapova in the first round. At the age of 39, Krumm captured her eighth WTA Tour title at the 2009 Hansol Korea Open in Seoul that entered her name in the books as the second-oldest player to win a singles crown on the Tour. She already won several ITF titles before achieving that feat and winning the Hansol Open following her return in 2008 from a retirement in 1996. Meanwhile, top-seeded Dane Caroline Wozniacki and two-time 2010 Grand Slam finalist Vera Zvonareva of Russia highlighted winners in Day 3 at the $2 million event in Tokyo. Former U.S. Open runner-up Wozniacki advanced into the third stage after demolishing Hungarian qualifier Greta Arn, 6-1, 6-3, while the No. 2 seeded Zvonareva dismissed Italian Sara Errani in 6-3, 6-3 fashion. The major upset of the day came when fourth-seeded French Open runner-up Samantha Stosur succumbed to Germany’s Julia Goerges, 7-5, 6-3. Other top-ten advancers were fifth-seeded French Open champion Francesca Schiavone, former Pan Pacific titlist Elena Dementieva, seeded seventh, and Victoria Azarenka (eighth seeded). German Andrea Pekovic also posted an upset, toppling 10th-seeded Svetlana Kuznetsova, who is a two-time major champion and runner-up in 2008. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Parker Open To Extension, Wants To Remain A Spur Posted: 29 Sep 2010 04:54 PM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor San Antonio, TX, United States (AHN) – Spurs guard Tony Parker, who is entering the final year of his contract, reportedly indicated he wants to stay in San Antonio amid speculation he wanted to move out of central Texas. “Of course I want to stay in San Antonio,” the 28-year-old Parker said as reported by Hoopsworld.com. “I’ve said that plenty of times but nobody wants to listen. The media just wants to create stories. I hope Spurs fans know that I want to stay here. I can’t control what people say.” Parker, who spent his entire nine-year NBA career with the Spurs, winning three championship alongside Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, is trying to replicate what Ginobili accomplished last season. Ginobili earned a three-year extension following a spectacular stretch in the spring after bouncing back from injuries. Parker is gearing up in his return from an injury-plagued campaign a year after registering his best season, where he posted an average 22 points, 6.9 assists per game and shooting 50.8 percent. At media day Tuesday, Parker, who indicated that he is not setting out on the road toward free agency, said that he is open to a possible extension with the Spurs. Parker, however, added that he wants to “focus on the team” at the moment and if the Spurs put a deal on the table he would be willing to listen. Parker emerged as one of the premier point guards in the league since the Spurs selected him in the first round of the 2001 NBA Draft. Known for his slashing abilities and high field goal percentage, Parker made it to three NBA All-Star selections and was named to an All-NBA Third Team. He was also recognized with the MVP honors during the 2007 NBA Finals, the last time the Spurs hoisted the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

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• Big Four All Drop Points In Great Weekend For Premier League Minnows
• AJ Auxerre vs Real Madrid CF: Jose Mourinho confident of Karim Benzema
• Ex-NBA Coach Lucas Advises Former NFL No.1 Pick JaMarcus Russell
• Shoulder Injury Could Cost Isles Defenseman Streit Six Months

Reggie Miller Says `Melo Should Build Home In Denver Posted: 28 Sep 2010 07:49 AM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor New York, NY, United States (AHN) – Former Pacers great Reggie Miller, who currently works as an NBA commentator for TNT, reportedly indicated his hopes that Carmelo Anthony would stay put in Denver. Miller, 45, known during his NBA career for his precision three-point field goal shooting, especially in clutch situations, was reacting to the reported deal that would send Anthony to the Nets. “Right now I think it’s a good for him in Denver,” the five-time All-Star, who attended Knicks’ practice Sunday on behalf of TNT and NBA TV, and with Donnie Walsh’s blessing, said as reported by NorthJersey.com. Miller, who pointed out that the Nuggets drafted Anthony, said: “He’s had seven good years there. He’s been an All-Star. I think they’ve been very loyal to him. I’m not saying he’s not being loyal to them. Miller, dubbed as the Knick Killer for his phenomenal shooting during the fierce battle between the Knicks-Pacers in the 1990′s Eastern Conference playoffs, is hoping Anthony would do what he did while he was playing. “I just like guys starting and finishing a career … lay roots. Build a home, do things like that,” Miller, who spent the entirety of his 18-year NBA career with the Indiana Pacers, told NorthJersey.com. “If things don’t go right, you just don’t want to bail ship.” Miller was also wooed by other teams during his pro playing days. The Knicks pursued him in 1996 before signing Allan Houston. The reported trade involving Anthony and the Nets did not push through because Denver did not finalize the four-way deal. Anthony, 26, selected behind LeBron James (1st overall, Cleveland) and Darko Milicic (2nd overall, Detroit) by Denver in the 2003 NBA Draft, has led the Nuggets to two division crowns and to the playoffs every season since his rookie year. Apart from being selected to the All-Star team thrice, Anthony was also named to the All-Rookie team and the All-NBA team on four occasions. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Tour Championship: Furyk`s Small Investment Yields $11 Million Return Posted: 28 Sep 2010 07:49 AM PDT Share Tom Edrington – AHN Sports Reporter Atlanta, GA, United States (AHN) – Jim Furyk apologized Sunday as he held the FedEx Cup, but he couldn’t remember the name of the store where he bought the now famous $39 putter that helped him win more than $11 million. “It was $39 at a golf superstore, I can’t remember the name of the store,” Furyk said, apologizing while he hoisted the silver FedEx Cup. “They had more than 300 putters in the store but I found the only one that was a heel-shafted putter with no alignment line on the top. They were asking $65 for it but they gave me a deal.” Furyk’s used gem worked well for him all week at East Lake, he made clutch putts time and again on his way to winning the Tour Championship, pocketing $1,350,000 for that and in the process he won the FedEx Cup race and took home $10 million for that. He bought that putter at Joe and Leigh’s Discount Golf Pro Shop located at the Pine Oaks Golf Course in South Easton, Ma. “Yes, that was us,” said one of the sales guys at Joe and Leigh’s who sold Furyk the “Yes” brand putter, a “sophia” model from that line. Furyk didn’t have much time to celebrate his third win of the season, he had to catch the charter flight that took the American Ryder Cup team to Wales Sunday night. With his display of mental toughness in the pouring rain during the final round of the Tour Championship, he may be the best American player if the conditions turn tough in Wales when the matches start on Friday. “He’s as tough as it gets,” said Paul Casey when he spoke about Furyk following the final round at East Lake. Casey, who was in the hunt all week, was left off the European team by captain Colin Montgomerie. Casey said he’ll watch the matches on television like everyone else. The staff at Joe and Leigh’s will no doubt check out Furyk at the matches like they did last week. “We were pulling hard for him (Furyk),” they said. It’s hard not to pull for Furyk. He’s a low-profile kind of player, is close with his family and it is his main support group. “It’s been a team strength,” he said of his wife, children and parents. His dad Mike has been his only golf coach. Furyk and his teammates will get settled today as they arrived in Europe and were transported to Celtic Manor where they will begin preparation for their defense of the Ryder Cup. Before leaving, Furyk had already turned his attention to Wales. “If you can’t get up for the Ryder Cup, there’s something wrong,” Furyk said. “I’m hoping to keep this roll going and keep the pedal down.” Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Peterson, Lions Miscues Lead To Vikings Victory Posted: 28 Sep 2010 07:49 AM PDT Chad Hutchinson – AHN Sports Correspondent Detroit, MI, United States (AHN) – Missed opportunities by the Lions helped Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings to their first win of the season, as Detroit fell 24-10 Sunday. Adrian Peterson piled up 160 yards rushing and a pair of scores for the Vikes. Another competitive effort by the Lions was overshadowed by mental mistakes and missed opportunities. After jumping out to a 7-0 lead early on in the first quarter, Detroit gave up two big plays that led to 14 points for Minnesota. After Detroit return specialist Stefan Logan fumbled a punt deep in Detroit territory, Favre hooked up with Percy Harvin for a 24 yard touchdown pass. On Minnesota’s next series, the Lions sacked Brett Favre and recovered a fumble deep in Vikings territory. Unfortunately for the Lions, the fumble recovery was overturned by a penalty for illegal contact to the quarterback’s head. The missed turnover opportunity by Detroit led to a 66 yard touchdown drive by the Vikings, capped off by a six yard touchdown run by Peterson. Peterson once again found success against the Detroit defense, finishing the game with 23 rushes for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Those 14 points came off mistakes by the Lions, and without those two plays, the Vikings are left with only ten points. Detroits woe’s continued with a great diving interception by corrner Chris Houston that was overturned by a defensive pass interference call. The Lions continue to struggle for consistency throughout a game. Two late interceptions by backup quarterback Sean Hill sealed the victory for Minnesota. Lions star wideout Calvin Johnson struggled be a major factor for the third week in a row. Johnson appeared to only be a factor in the Lions offense in the first and fourth quarters, but for the majority of the game was contained by Minnesotas defense. Johnson finished the game with six catches for 56 yards. Lions quarterback Sean Hill finished the game with 237 yards passing with one touchdown and two interceptions. Favre’s performance wasn’t any better, as he finished with 201 yards one touchdown and two interceptions. The Vikings secured their first win of the season heading into their bye week, while the Lions will be looking to secure their first win against a very strong Green Bay squad next week at Lambeau Field. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Countdown To CWG In India; The Mess Deepens Posted: 28 Sep 2010 07:49 AM PDT Share AHN News Staff New Delhi, India (AHN) – As if the controversies were not enough, the Commonwealth Games preparation in India is headed for yet another face-off, this time between the Games Federation (CGF) CEO Mike Hooper and the Delhi Government. The face-off was over Hooper’s reportedly disparaging remarks about the national capital’s burgeoning population. During an important meeting between the Games officials, Hooper reportedly said, “I am not interested in India’s pride. My priority is to ensure that Commonwealth Games go on smoothly.” However, Hooper has denied having made such a comment, blaming the Indian media for “misquoting” his comments. However, the Delhi Government, especially Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit is far from pacified as she reacted to Hooper’s remarks by saying, “It is really a very unkind and undiplomatic remark that has been made.” Hooper had managed to raise eyebrows earlier as well, when he said that India, not the CGF, was responsible for the controversial countdown to the sporting event. While speaking to Television New Zealand, Hooper said, “At the end of the day, I’m not a construction engineer. I’m not a builder. We’re at the hands and the mercy of, effectively, the government of India, the Delhi government, the agencies responsible for delivery of the venues.” Hooper’s Boss, Mike Fennell, also came out in his support, lashing out at the India media for a “viscous and totally unwarranted attack” on his subordinate for his comments to media. Fennell insisted that Hooper was stating the obvious while saying that the “responsibility for delivering and operating the Games lies with authorities in India, as per the Host City contract.” Meanwhile, Commonwealth Games Organizing Committee (OC) Chairman Suresh Kalmadi, who has come under fire from all sides, for his shabby handling of the preparations, claimed on Monday that most of the occupant players at the much-criticized Games Village, were happy with the arrangements and most of the problems “have been sorted out.” Surprisingly, even Kalmadi was not in a mood to take any responsibility for the delay caused in the preparations. When asked why the OC had left the cleaning up of the Village to just seven days before the Games, Kalmadi said nonchalantly that this was not OC’s responsibility. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

India vs Australia Series: Australia confident of overcoming Indian challenge Posted: 28 Sep 2010 05:22 AM PDT Australia is keeping their fingers crossed ahead of the two test series against India beginning on Friday. The guests are aware of the fact that Indian bowling could be hard to tackle especially with the return of Zaheer Khan. Vice-captain Michael Clarke however seemed confident of a successful resistance on the Indian pitch. Clarke told the media that Zaheer and Ishant Sharma, with their reverse swings shall be real threats to his team. But he added that his team had been training to handle reverse swings and hence will not have to face much trouble. The Australians had also been practicing to counter the spin attacks of the Indian squad, led by Harbhajan Singh. Clarke said he has formulated a plan against the spinners and was hopeful that it will show results. Harbhajan has reportedly recovered from a sprain problem and is expected to play against Australia. Talking of the spinner, Clarke said Harbhajan would be keen to play against them. Australia too is excited to face his challenge as he is one of the best spinners in cricket. About his own performance, Clarke said he trying to improve consistency. The first and second tests between India and Australia will be played in Mohali and Bangalore respectively. Three ODIs will also take place between the teams.

Purdue Looks To Heal Physically, Emotionally After Upset Loss Posted: 28 Sep 2010 05:15 AM PDT Sam Klemet – AHN Sports Correspondent West Lafayette, IN, United States (AHN) – Purdue is going to have to wait awhile to get rid of the taste left after Saturday’s surprising 31-20 loss to Toledo. The Boilermakers have a bye week before opening Big Ten play on the road at Northwestern on October 9th, which makes their loss to the Rockets all the more painful. “It’s a major wake-up call for the team,” said wide receiver Cortez Smith. “We needed that loss to put us back where we are supposed to be. We have to get our mind back right.” Purdue had a chance to win three games in the month of September for the first time since 2007, but a host of mistakes on both offense and defense led to the head scratching defeat. “We are disappointed that we don’t have a better record right now.” said head coach Danny Hope. “We can rebound, we can regroup. We’ll have to show a lot of strength and resilience.” The Boilermakers were unable to slow down the Rockets offense which entered Saturday ranked 112th in the nation. Quarterback Austin Dantin threw two first quarter touchdowns and ran for two in the second half, including a 58-yard dash in the third quarter. “Anytime we lose its disappointing,” said defensive end Ryan Kerrigan. “We didn’t really play well defensively. Give all the credit to Toledo.” Purdue’s pain extends beyond the loss. Physically the team is in shambles. Starting quarterback Robert Marve went down during Saturday’s game and was carted to the locker room. The extent of his injury is not yet known, but it appears he will miss at least a few games. The Boilermakers already lost their top wide receiver, Keith Smith, who led the Big Ten in receiving a year ago. They are also without Ralph Bolden who hurt his knee in the spring and backup quarterback Caleb TerBush was ruled academically ineligible. “It’s frustrating. You know you have a lot of good football players and guys who are part of our football family getting hurt,” said linebacker Jason Werner. “There is nothing you can do about that. Hopefully they get better as soon as possible and put guys in there to fill in.” Nonetheless, if Purdue plans to make their first bowl appearance in the Danny Hope era, its going to have to find a way to play with the players who are still upright. The Boilermakers have two weeks to prepare for undefeated Northwestern. Coach Hope said the bye week comes at the perfect time for a team that is banged up. “We’ve got to get healed up and rested up. We have to get physically and emotionally refueled as a football team,” he said. “It’s not all sunk yet, but we have some growing up to do, that’s for sure.” Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Big Four All Drop Points In Great Weekend For Premier League Minnows Posted: 28 Sep 2010 05:15 AM PDT Andrew Lawn – AHN Sports Correspondent London, United Kingdom (AHN) – When Manchester City beat Chelsea in Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off the tone was being set for a weekend of shock results in England’s top-flight. While City’s 1-0 win over the previously unbeaten Chelsea was impressive, it soon paled into insignificance compared to West Bromwich Albions masterful display at Arsenal. Recently promoted West Brom was expected to be mere cannon-fodder for free-scoring Arsenal, an opinion strengthened when Chris Brunt missed an early penalty for the visitors. However, the missed penalty galvanized Albion and Brunt in particular, who proceeded to turn in a performance of the highest order. New signing Peter Odemwingie led the charge with a well-taken opener before Jara and Thomas added one each to see the Baggies 3-0 ahead. A late double from Samir Nasri was nothing but a consolation for the Gunners as Albion held on to a famous 3-2 win. Arsenal’s North London rivals and fellow top-four side Tottenham Hotspurs fared little better going down 1-0 at West Ham United, while Manchester United failed to gain ground on its rivals after being held to a 2-2 tie at Bolton Wanderers. Former top-four club, Liverpool also failed to win Saturday, recovering from 2-1 down to draw 2-2 with Sunderland at Anfield. There were tight 2-1 away wins for Aston Villa and Stoke City on Sunday, beating Wolverhampton Wanderers and Newcastle United respectively. Blackburn Rovers also beat Blackpool by the same scoreline. Fulham v Everton and Birmingham City v Wigan Athletic both finished goalless. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

AJ Auxerre vs Real Madrid CF: Jose Mourinho confident of Karim Benzema Posted: 28 Sep 2010 04:53 AM PDT Today's Champions League shall see Real Madrid take on Auxerre, with striker Karim Benzema beginning his display for the former. Meanwhile, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is going ahead with certain changes in his team for the match against Auxerre tonight. Mourinho was forced to make the changes after the goalless draw with Levante last week. However, Mesut Ozil, Angel Di Maria, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain shall lead the attack this time as well. But chances are that one of them will be replaced with Karim Benzema. The manager appeared confident of Benzema's abilities and confirmed his presence for the match against Auxerre. “Benzema is working well. It’s time to give him more confidence", remarked Mourinho. Meanwhile, Pedro Leon is one player sure of being left out of the upcoming encounter. Leon is reportedly not a favorite of Mourinho and was not included in the team that played in France. Mourinho on the other remained unconcerned of the player's absence and said he need not justify the matter. He added that he will answer the President Florentino Perez if he enquired, but Leon is not such a great player to deserve so much importance.

Ex-NBA Coach Lucas Advises Former NFL No.1 Pick JaMarcus Russell Posted: 28 Sep 2010 12:18 AM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor Mobile, AL, United States (AHN) – Former Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell, facing a state felony charge of possession of a controlled substance following his recent arrest, has reportedly turned to former NBA coach John Lucas for help. Considered by many as one of the biggest draft busts in NFL history, Russell, 25, has been working with Lucas, who has battled his own personal demons in an effort to get his back life on track, ESPN.com reported. Russell, the former Louisiana State standout taken No. 1 overall by Oakland in the 2007 NFL Draft, is reportedly in better shape than he was this offseason. Russell is also reportedly taking his work more seriously. Russell, listed 6-foot-6, 260 pounds, can run three 400-yard sprints in row, whereas he used to struggle in doing the same set, reports ESPN.com. Russell and Lucas have been training together in Houston for the past two months, according to the website. Lucas, who overcame his drug problems during his playing days and later became an NBA head coach, is working to make the former No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft accountable for his past actions. Russell’s career was derailed long before his arrest on July 5 for codeine possession at his Mobile, Alabama home. Released by the Raiders in May 2010, Russell is trying to get himself into shape to get himself a second chance in the NFL. With the help of Lucas as a “life coach”, Russell, currently a free agent, could return to the NFL later this season. Lucas had a promising NBA playing career derailed by drug abuse and even alcohol problems, but rebounded and became a head coach of three NBA teams (San Antonio, Philadelphia and Cleveland) Lucas, the first player selected in the 1976 NBA draft, played for 14 years in the NBA and was a member of the 1986 Houston Rockets team that reached the NBA Finals. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

Shoulder Injury Could Cost Isles Defenseman Streit Six Months Posted: 28 Sep 2010 12:18 AM PDT Jojo Doria – AHN Sports Contributor Melville, NY, United States (AHN) – The New York Islanders will have to reconstruct their lineup after it was revealed Sunday that defenseman Mark Streit will likely be out six months with an injured left shoulder. The loss of the 32-year-old Streit, who sustained the injury following a hit by Matt Moulson in the third period of an intra-squad scrimmage Saturday, is big blow to the Islanders. Streit is major cog in the Islanders’ defense. He is also the power-play quarterback and one of the Isles top offensive threats. Streit will seek a second opinion on the injury this week. The said injury will likely require surgery, according to the Newsday report. Article © AHN – All Rights Reserved

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