When the Illini took down Cincinnati, it was the first time they beat a team seeded higher than them in the tournament. Chicago-born Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski was impressed: “They put on a show.” And by “show,” he means they showed their hand too soon.
2. This town’s not big enough
Bears coach Lovie Smith gets his first preseason game in St. Louis, where the former defensive coordinator will test his schemes against old boss and offensive genius Mike Martz. If Martz’s ego looked big from the booth, just wait until Lovie sees it from across the field.
3. The Super Bowl shuffleboard
In Al Davis’ never-ending quest for players his own age, the Raiders plugged in Ted Washington and Warren Sapp.
Of course, the Broncos–
never ones to let Al get away with anything–signed near-relics John Lynch and Luther Elliss.
That’s it; Dan Snyder’s asking Joe Gibbs to suit up.
4. Ballot ball
It’s funny, Vince Carter consistently leads All-Star Game voting, and his Raptors are just a game out of the playoffs. LeBron
James was snubbed for the NBA showcase, but his Cavs are clinging to the last playoff spot in the East.
If it came down to a vote, whom would you rather see in the postseason? Exactly.
5 Speaking of playoffs
Wouldn’t it be great if the NBA used a “one-and-done” format like the NCAA instead of its “best-of” series? Fans would be more entertained, and Eddy Curry and Tyson Chandler might finally get that college experience they’ve been lacking.
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plthompson@tribune.com, Edited by the Sports staff of RedEye.
