Legendary Platinum-selling veteran male vocal quintet HI-FIVE have been in the game for two-and-a-half decades thus far despite countless setbacks - most notably the untimely passing of mega-talented lead singer Tony Thompson back in 2K7, and are back to re-ignite the fire that's missing in the current landscape of R&B/Urban Adult Contemporary music with their brand new collective release HI-FIVE: THE EP. Their sexy smooth lead single 'It's Nothing' is soulfully loaded with the vintage sound vibe that we've come to expect and love from the fellas when they achieved major success back in the early-to-mid 1990s when they were led by Thompson. 'We went into the studio to re-create the classic HI-FIVE sound and give the fans what it is that they're looking for - and that's true R&B music from a true R&B group.' said original member and 'Bronx Most Wanted Entertainment' label CEO Treston Irby during our recent phone chat. Irby - along with fellow original group brethren Marcus Sanders and talented new teammates Shannon Gill, Billy Covington and Faruq Evans will bring a substantially more mature sonic soul flavor to the masses worldwide with the EP and will undoubtedly fill the loyal, long-time fans in on the new direction of the group and where their mindset is right now. Anticipate a full-length album release from the fellas in the year of 2K15, but for right this minute, HI-FIVE: THE EP is now available on iTunes and all other retail digital outlets under the Bronx Most Wanted Entertainment label imprint.
*Sending out a big THANK YOU to the group's publicist Ra-Fael Blanco of 2R's Entertainment & Media PR (www.twitter.com/TwoRsEnt) for giving me the opportunity to interview my Bronx, New York City brethren Treston for the piece!
Best known for their R&B smash hits 'Him Or Me,' 'Girl I Got My Eyes On You' and 'Why You Gettin' Funky On Me' during the innovative 'New Jack Swing' era of the late 1980s-early 1990s, veteran Platinum-selling R&B/Contemporary Gospel male vocal quartet TODAY are returning to the music scene wiser and better than ever with their unique brand of soulfully inspirational vibes that will without a doubt touch the hearts of their loyal fan base and also gain brand new followers to their movement. The reunion of Frederick Lee 'Big Bub' Drakeford, Larry 'Love' McCain, Wesley 'Wes' Adams and 'Larry 'Chief' Singletary in 2K10 when they independently released their amazing contemporary gospel single 'Orchestrate' after nearly two decades of taking timeout to mature on all levels and work on individual projects sent a big statement to the industry that as a collective, they mean business and are more than ready at this stage of their careers to produce their finest work yet. 'There's definitely been a change from within us. We've matured a lot and the adversities that we've endured has prepared us for this time - which is RIGHT NOW.' said Adams during our recent phone chat. 'Our new music will not only be soulful, but spiritual as well. We want whatever we're conveying now in our songs to be translated into love in many of its forms.'
Bub, Chief, Love and Wes are currently spread out on the East Coast with residences in their home base of New Jersey, as well as The Carolinas and Atlanta, Georgia. Look out for the group's new inspirational single 'The Gift of Life' to be independently released during the Fall of 2K14, as well as an original Christmas song just in time for the upcoming holiday season. As far as dropping their first full-length album since 1991's 'The New Formula,' 2K15 looks to be the year that both R&B and Contemporary Gospel music fans can anticipate the newest addition of the TODAY catalog. Also check for group member Wesley Adams' enlightening debut e-book titled 'The Enemies and Allies of Your Dreams' at Amazon, Barnes & Noble Online and iBook Store.
*Big kudos to my Beantown brother and street promoter extraordinaire Kevin Gray (www.facebook.com/Kevin.Gray.5851) for allowing me the opportunity to interview Wes for the piece!
Idaho native Morgan James is one superbly amazing vocal talent that is on fire as 2K14 draws to a close. She owned her role as the late great iconic Teena Marie in the hugely successful Broadway show 'Motown: The Musical' and during the summer released her soulfully epic rendition of Prince's Grammy-winning song 'Call My Name.' On the latter - WOW! James can without a doubt 'SANG' and did the tune supreme justice and then some! I KNOW that if Prince has indeed heard this awesome re-do, he would absolutely be proud, and me personally, I think this multitalented and gorgeous 'sanger'/songwriter/actress SHOULD garner a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in the upcoming ceremonies come early 2K15. I - along with the rest of the world - can't wait to hear a lot more from the one - the only - the mega-soulful Miss MORGAN JAMES!
I tuned into ESPN on Monday afternoon, August 11, 2K14 at home in the Bronx, New York City USA to check out the latest happenings in the wide world of the sports landscape, and what definitely caught my immediate attention was the groundbreaking exploits of African-American female 13-year-old Taney Dragons right-handed pitching phenom Mo'Ne Davis of Philadelphia, PA. Not only is she very pretty in the face and extremely bright-minded, she is 'real-deal' talented and supremely confident in her abilities - throwing intimidating heat at 70 MPH top-speed, along with a nice curveball and a split-fingered fastball, all the while leading her team into the Little League World Series as the ONLY girl on the Taney squad. During her interview with ESPN, she even challenged current Los Angeles Dodgers Cy Young award-winning lefty Clayton Kershaw to a pitch-off. Now how's THAT for confidence! Well, her amazingness has caught on fire around the country and has quickly become the newest inspiration to young girls and even grown women as well!
On Friday, August 14, 2K14, 'Magic' Mo'Ne, who stands at 5'4 and weighs around 110 pounds, displayed more her dominance on the mound, throwing 70 pitches in six innings of work, giving up no runs and just two hits, no walks and eight strikeouts in a 4-0 victory for Pennsylvania over Nashville, Tennessee in the first game of the Little League World Series and made history by becoming the first African-American girl to partake in the annual classic and to also pitch a shutout as a female. Mo'Ne is just the 18th girl to ever play in the Little League World Series in it's 68-year history. I am rooting for this athletically mega-talented and beautiful young lady to go all the way, and Heaven's definitely the limit in regards to her bright future with whatever she sets her mind to do. Basketball is Mo'Ne's other love as she mentioned in her recent interview with ESPN and has dreams of playing in the WNBA in the future. Could she be the first-ever female Major League pitcher someday? With her immense talent and pending that she doesn't hurt her gifted right arm, it CAN be possible!
The Date: 9/4/2K13
The Event: WNBA All-Star/Entrepreneur CAPPIE PONDEXTER's 3-year anniversary celebration of 4 SEASON STYLE MANAGEMENT
The Locale: Gansevoort Hotel, Meatpacking District, New York City
RG: What defines fashion from your perspective?
SC: Fashion to me is just a way of expressing yourself visually. It's about feeling good, feeling comfortable and looking good.
RG: With the recent success of the first season of VH1 reality TV series THE GOSSIP GAME, do you think it has catapulted your popularity in any way?
SC: Yes definitely! Reality TV is a beast, it really is, and fans are really passionate about it. We had tons and tons of viewers (over 1 million) per episode, and so a lot more people now know who I am. A lot of doors have opened up for me. THE GOSSIP GAME was an experimental-type of show because never before have we seen professional women on this level, and that was one reason as to why it was experimental in regards to us women who cover the stars and celebrities. There's never been an in-depth look into what they go through themselves behind-the-scenes.
RG: What does being 'in the spotlight' mean to you?
SC: I guess being in the spotlight means that you have to be a little careful when you're walking around the neighborhood and you're in a compromising position. People want to know who you are and take pictures. Also being in the spotlight is a good thing because it helps immensely in branding yourself.
RG: Which three artists define the essence of 'pure soul' in your opinion?
SC: Michael Jackson, Mary J. Blige and Adele - the latter is 'soul from an unexpected place' - a White British woman with an amazingly soulful voice!
Veteran R&B/Soul/Gospel 'sanger' Dave Hollister is back on the secular music scene in a grand way with his rhythmically smooth hit single SPEND THE NIGHT, produced by the super-talented, award-winning Warryn Campbell and collaborator Eric Dawkins. Hollister is going on 43-years-young in August of 2K14 and has NOT lost a single step with his soulfully distinctive vocal delivery. Fans can anticipate a new solo album later on this year and also catch Dave doing his thing as part of Gospel music icon Fred Hammond's four-man collective UNITED TENORS. If you loved his classic work with the legendary Teddy Riley and Blackstreet back in the incredible music era of the 1990s, Hollister will NOT disappoint here in 2K14 and beyond with his new projects!
It was widely speculated even during this past NBA Finals that the remote possibility that LeBron James returning for a second go-round with the Cleveland Cavaliers could happen after four straight Eastern Division titles and back-to-back world championships with the Miami Heat. Well my friends - it has now come to fruition and in my opinion has drastically switched the landscape of what's to come in the 2K14-15 campaign. The Cleveland Cavaliers are immediately contenders again in the Eastern Conference with a more seasoned, matured man and leader in King James with the great success he experienced down in South Beach with the Heat the past four years, and that bodes extremely well for the likes of the young core in place - All-Star point guard Kyrie Irving, who recently signed a five-year, $90M extension, talented young forward Tristan Thompson, explosive two-guard Dion Waiters and talented, exciting young forward Andrew Wiggins, their recent No. 1 overall draft pick out of Kansas. The wisdom James will impart to these players as far as being professionals and having a championship-winning mentality will only ascend his greatness and hopefully help in winning the franchise's first-ever NBA title, which will be INSANE for the great city of Cleveland, Ohio! On the other end with the Miami Heat, unfortunately with LeBron making the shocking decision to return home quickly shifts them from being the annual contenders they were to now being being borderline pretenders. OK - veteran All-Star forward Chris Bosh resigns with the club for five-years and $118M, but fellow All-Star Dwyane Wade's uncertain future with the franchise is a concern with the various injuries that have taken a toll on his body over the past few seasons has them looking to rebuild again for the future. I mean, the Heat I believe will compete this upcoming season IF Wade does return and is physically able to get through it unscathed and be the amazing, future Hall-of-Fame player that he is, but the impact of LeBron leaving will be immensely felt by the franchise. We shall see how it all plays out, but to James and his family - WELCOME HOME and GOOD LUCK!
Mega-talented and award-winning singer/songwriter/producer Luke James is back on the scene and in a major way with the release of his powerful new Alternative R&B single and video for 'Options' featuring Def Jam labelmate and Platinum-selling Rap artist Rick Ross. This lead single from his upcoming self-titled album - which is slated to be released in late September 2K14 has 'smash hit' and 'Grammy nomination' written all over it. James' potent lyrical deepness and sonically dark interpretation of a complicated love relationship has solidified his standing as one of the premier and most versatile songsmiths in the game, and with the witty wordplay of Ricky Rozay upping the ante, 'Options' is by far the New Orleans, Louisiana native's biggest track to date in my opinion. Yes, most fans would say his 2K12 sexy, soulful hit 'Make Love To Me,' his 2K11 debut smash 'I Want You' and 2K13's 'I.O.U.' were those songs, but the overall production of 'Options' is on some brand new 'next level' s**t!
The 'Options' music video was directed by James as well.
After a decade from stepping away from the game, Cassandra Lucas - the multi-talented and gorgeous singer/songwriter and one-half of Platinum-selling R&B female vocal duo 'Changing Faces' is back on the scene in a major way with her emotionally-charged new single - a smooth, sexy ballad aptly titled 'Damn,' which displays her vulnerable side in a relationship that went sour due solely to her faults and insecurities, and not her man, which is a rare topic conveyed in today's musical landscape by female artists. 'Damn' is the lead track off her debut solo album 'Lifetime' on the CRC Musik imprint, a label formed by Lucas, her hubby/music collaborator Noel 'Chris' Absolam and her biz partner Richard Smith, and by the sound of things, a abundance of creative greatness is to come! As of this post, 'Damn' is on Heavy Rotation on Music Choice TV (RnB/Soul), and if you've loved Lucas' past work with her Changing Faces PNC Charisse Rose in the mid-1990s and early 2000s with classic hits such as 'Stroke You Up,' 'G.H.E.T.T.O.U.T.,' and 'That Other Woman,' her solo act and 'stand-alone' sound vibe WILL NOT DISAPPOINT!
Check out DAMN either on Cassandra's website or her YouTube page.
The vast majority of Hip-Hop fans around the globe are familiar with the legendary rapid-fire deliveries of iconic veterans such as Jaz-O, Twista and Busta Rhymes. But it's Indie music recording artist Ricky 'NoClue' Brown who's held the crown as being THE fastest rapper on Planet Earth since 2K5 according to the Guinness Book of World Records - spitting verses at a mind-blowing 14.1 syllables per second! With a strong internet buzz, plus the superb talent to back it up, NoClue is hard on his grind, ready to conquer the Rap game and strongly rep the Emerald City in the same way that legendary Platinum-selling artists Sir-Mix-A-Lot and Macklemore have done in their respective careers. I recently chopped it up with Brown about his big musical connection with the Seattle Seahawks and more.
RG: Define the 'NoClue' brand of Rap musicality in your words.
My brand of Rap musicality is primarily 'independence.' I strive to be the best that I can be....I don't give in to whatever is 'trending'....I stay true to what I want to represent - FLOWING, MOTIVATING and PROGRESSING.
RG: Express your feelings on your successful contribution of the Super Bowl XLVIII (48) champion Seattle Seahawks' powerfully-inspiring anthem '12th Man?'
I'm surprised I didn't make the anthem sooner. (Laughs)....Naturally, they've been my favorite team since I was a child, and I'm proud of my Seahawks. I love it when doubters are silenced, and we definitely silenced those who didn't believe they could win The Big Game....Since I'm from Seattle, I wanted to make a song for the entire city....It's been a long-time coming, and I'm looking forward to the Seahawks dominating this upcoming season as well.
RG: What projects do you currently have in the works that we can anticipate here in 2K14?
My major focus this year is perfecting my rap style in order to break my own Guinness world record on national TV. A lot more work goes into the process than people think. I'm actually better prepared this time around, and I plan on smashing my own record. Also look out for my self-titled album to be released later this year, as well as me contributing a song for the soon-to-be-released Tomorrow Pictures film titled 'Boxing Chicks.'STAY TUNED!
RG: You've been doing your thing independently for a while now. What are the most important things that you've learned about the music biz/
The key to becoming a successful independent music artist is to have a solid team that you can trust. I couldn't have done it all on my own....Being persistent and having tough skin has gotten me past the rough patches also....It's not only a passion, but at the end of the day, it's WORK!....I'm constantly brainstorming, writing, in the studio mixing and mastering, promoting, representing products and brands and fulfilling companies' expectations - all while maintaining the 'NoClue' style. Lastly, you have to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF. If you don't, then why would anyone else believe in you? Successful people DON'T GIVE UP!
RG: In five-to-ten years from now with the LORD's blessing, Ricky 'NoClue' Brown will be -
Touring the world and being a household name. The more people I connect with musically, THE BETTER. I don't want to just make a dent in the industry - I want to have a MAJOR IMPACT!
Here are a few suggestions on what a person in the Entertainment industry can do to balance both their personal life and entertainment career:
1. Set goals for yourself when you manage your career.
When you go to work each day, try to set some goals for you to accomplish. For instance, let's say your goal for today is to finish a project for your manager. At the end of the day, you will feel better about yourself - knowing that you were able to finish that prject. When you accomplish these small goals, you will feel happier, more confident, and less stressed.
2. Delegate part of your responsibilities.
If you try to do everything, you will get stressed and anxious. A person can only do so much in a given day. DO NOT do EVERYTHING. Learn to manage your responsibilities. If you feel like you are doing too much, take a break, and evaluate your situation.
3. Try to do things in terms of their importance.
Determine what needs to be done right away, and do those particular tasks in order of importance. Sometimes it's best to write down on a piece of paper the things you want to accomplish in a given day, and then do those particular tasks.
4. Remember to have fun.
It is important to HAVE FUN, even if your career becomes difficult to manage. A person needs to take a break from their profession so they can learn to relax. This will help you to re-focus and be better able to deal with your problems.
5. Separate your career and your personal life.
Many people make the mistake of making their career their social life. This can cause problems in the long run. It is best if you keep your personal life separate from your profession because this will reduce the chances of anything bad from happening to your career. Set some time aside to be with your friends, and leave your career separate.
6. Don't neglect your health.
Many entertainers sacrifice their physical and mental health over fame, money, and success. Try to focus on what life will be like when your fame disappears. Managing your stresses and anxieties in a positive way is very important for your long-term health. A person can't enjoy their successes if their health is in bad shape.
This scorching-hot track and lead single from 'The Amazing Spider Man 2' soundtrack performed by Grammy-winning songstress Alicia Keys and platinum-selling Hip Hop music sensation Kendrick Lamar has 'No. 1' written all over it! Produced by the ever-present and always-groundbreaking Pharrell Williams and German film composer Hans Zimmer, 'It's On Again' to me is the true epitome of a global soundscape that music fans of all tastes around the world can truly appreciate. I mean, how can you go wrong with this one-of-a-kind collaboration of superb talent? You got Kendrick firing up the opener as only he can do with his unique brand of bar-spitting, followed by the sure-fire melodic genius of A.K., who looks AMAZING in the accompanying music video (Big kudos to her stylists, without a doubt), then rounding things out with the collective musical artistry of both the Grammy-winning Pharrell and H.Zimm on the production and composing end of the project, and my friends, you have a WINNING product penetrating the radio airwaves, the television and the BIG screen in MARVELous fashion for a film that will without question do MASSIVE numbers this Spring! 'The Amazing Spider-Man 2' starring Andrew Garfield, his real-life girlfriend - actress Emma Stone and Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx opens in theatres nationwide on Friday, May 2, 2K14.
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from the sports world this past week:
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 2/24 - Sunday 3/2)....Eastern Conference - G John Wall, Washington Wizards; Western Conference - G/F James Harden, Houston Rockets...Players of the Month (February 2K14): East - F LeBron James, Miami Heat; West - F Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers...Rookies of the Month (February 2K14): East - G Victor Oladipo, Orlando Magic; West - G Nick Calathes, Memphis Grizzlies...Coaches of the Month (February 2K14): East - Erik Spoelstra, Miami Heat; West - Kevin McHale, Houston Rockets....Miami Heat All-Star forward LeBron James scored a career-high and franchise record-setting 61 points in a 127-107 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats at home....The Indiana Pacers (46-16) are the first team to officially punch their ticket into the upcoming postseason....The Los Angeles Clippers crushed their in-city rival and injury-depleted Lakers as a 'road' team at the STAPLES Center 142-94 - the Purple and Gold's worst loss in history. It's safe to say that since leaving the Phoenix Suns, head coach Mike D'Antoni has had a rough go of it with the Lakers and the New York Knicks prior to coming to L.A...The #3 jersey of future Hall-of-Famer Allen Iverson was retired by the Philadelphia 76ers organization....Atlanta Hawks guard Kyle Korver's record of 127 consecutive games with at least a converted three-point field goal was snapped in the team's loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on the road.
Men's College Basketball (Div. I): Associated Press Top 10 (Final week of regular season before conference tournament play) - 1. Florida 2. Wichita State 3. Arizona 4. Duke 5. Virginia 6. Villanova 7. Syracuse 8. Kansas 9. Wisconsin 10. San Diego State....The #2 Wichita State Shockers became the first team since St. Joseph's back in 2K4 to finish the regular season undefeated. (31-0)
Women's College Basketball (Div. 1): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Louisville 4. Stanford 5. South Carolina 6. Tennessee 7. West Virginia 8. Maryland 9. Baylor 10. Duke
NHL: 42-year-old New Jersey Devil Jaromir Jagr became the seventh player in league history to tally 700 career goals in the team's 6-1 win over the New York Islanders.
NFL: The Pittsburgh Steelers re-sign both All-Pro safety Troy Polumalu and veteran tight end Heath Miller to three-year extensions....The Philadelphia Eagles released QB Michael Vick....The New Orleans Saints released RB/KR Darren Sproles.
Pro Tennis: Roger Federer defeated third-ranked Tomas Berdych to capture his sixth Dubai Championship (a new record) and the 78th singles title of his career.
Women's Pro Golf: American Paula Creamer outlasted Azahara Munoz in playoff round to win the HSBC Women's Champions tournament in dramatic fashion in Singapore - her first LPGA Tour title since capturing the U.S. Women's Open in 2K10.
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from this past week in the sports world:
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 2/18 - Sunday 2/23)....Eastern Conference - G Kemba Walker, Charlotte Bobcats; Western Conference - F Kevin Love, Minnesota Timberwolves....35-year-old veteran center Jason Collins signed a 10-day contract with the Brooklyn Nets, and became the first-ever openly gay male athlete to compete in a pro game amongst the four major sports here in the States against the Lakers in Los Angeles on Sunday 2/23. The Nets will keep Collins for the remainder of the season, and his #98 jersey was the top-selling NBA jersey this past week....New Orleans Pelicans point guard Jrue Holiday will miss the rest of the season after having surgery for a stress fracture in his right tibia....Veteran forward Danny Granger was bought out by the Philadelphia 76ers after being traded by the Indiana Pacers, and is widely expected to sign on with the contending Los Angeles Clippers once he clears waivers.
MLB: Spring training exhibition games got underway for all teams....22-year-old All-Star Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim outfielder Mike Trout signed a one-year, $1M deal - the largest ever for a pre-arbitration player....The New York Yankees re-sign outfielder Brett Gardner to a four-year, $52M extension.
**The 2K14 Winter Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia came to a close with the host country winning 33 total medals (13 gold) - the most tallied by any nation. Team USA had a nice showing in Sochi, finishing runner-up in the medal count with 28. (9 gold)
Auto Racing: Dale Ernhardt, Jr. won the Daytona 500 championship for the second time of his career.
Pro Tennis: 29th-ranked Venus Williams defeated Frenchwoman Alize Cornet in straight sets to win the Dubai Championships - her first title in two years and the 45th singles championship of her illustrious career.
NFL: The Scouting Combine for the top draft prospects took place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana....The Philadelphia Eagles re-signed three of their key cogs on offense - wide receiver Riley Cooper (five-years, $25M; $10M guaranteed), offensive tackle Jason Peters (four-years, $41.3M) and center Jason Kelce. (six-years, $37.5M; $13M guaranteed)
Men's College Basketball: (Associated Press top 10) - 1. Florida 2. Wichita State 3. Arizona 4. Syracuse 5. Kansas 6. Duke 7. Louisville 8. Villanova 9. Creighton 10. Saint Louis....Second-ranked Wichita State made history by becoming the first Divison I men's program to start a season 30-0 when they defeated Bradley 69-49.
Women's College Basketball: (Associated Press Top 10) - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Louisville 4. South Carolina 5. Stanford 6. Baylor 7. Duke 8. Penn State 9. Maryland 10. Tennessee
NHL: The regular season resumed after 2 1/2-week Winter Olympic break. As of Friday 2/28, the Anaheim Ducks continue to pace atop the West standings with 89 points, while in the East, the Pittsburgh Penguins lead the pack with 84 total points.
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from the sports world this past week:
Winter Olympics: The 2K14 Sochi Games got underway in Russia, and as of Friday 2/14, both Norway and the United States of America lead the total medal count with 13 a piece (4 Gold; 3 Silver; 6 Bronze each)....23-year-old Jamie Anderson won the gold medal in the inaugural olympic event of Women's Slopestyle Snowboarding....Erin Hamlin took home the bronze medal in Women's Singles Luge, becoming the first American ever - man or woman - to medal in the event.
Pro Football: Talented defensive end Michael Sam out of Missouri revealed to the world that he is homosexual, and will become the first such player ever to be drafted by an NFL team this coming May in New York City.
MLB: Future first-ballot Hall-of-Fame shortshop Derek Jeter announced that the 2K14 season - his 20th - will be the final one of his legendary career with the New York Yankees.....The Chicago White Sox signed talented offensive first baseman Jose Abreu of Cuba to a six-year, $68M contract...Former major league player and manager Jim Fergosi passed away at the age of 71 from stroke complications.
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 2/3 - Sunday 2/9)....Eastern Conference - F Jared Sullinger, Boston Celtics; Western Conference - F Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder....The All-Star break in New Orleans, Louisiana got underway, with the Oklahoma City Thunder owning the overall best record in the league at 43-12. The Indiana Pacers at 40-12 are the top team in the East, with the two-time defending champion Miami Heat right at their heels at 37-14. Thunder All-Star forward Kevin Durant is the league's top scorer, averaging 31 points per contest thus far.....The Detroit Pistons fired head coach Maurice Cheeks. Nate McMillan takes over on an interim basis.
Men's College Basketball (A.P. Top 10): 1. Syracuse 2. Arizona 3. Florida 4. Wichita State 5. San Diego State 6. Villanova 7. Kansas 8. Duke 9. Michigan State 10. Cincinnati
Women's College Basketball (A.P. Top 10): 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Duke 4. Louisville 5. South Carolina 6. Stanford 7. Baylor 8. Tennessee 9. Maryland 10. North Carolina State
Born and raised in the Emerald City of Seattle, Washington, which is now the proud home of the first-time Super Bowl champion Seahawks, the multi-talented and multi-faceted Jackie Christie is truly a shining light in the world of entrepreneurship entering the year of 2K14. As the wife of former outstanding NBA player Doug Christie (most notably with the Sacramento Kings), Jackie has built her own amazing brand in the past few years as an in-demand actress in the hit VH1 network reality TV series 'Basketball Wives: L.A.,' as also as a best-selling book author, fashion designer and record label owner, just to name a few of the many ventures she has on her proverbial plate. Christie recently released her enlightening new best-seller titled 'Sexual Relations: A His & Hers Guide To Finding Greater Intimacy' back in the fall of 2K13, and I had the honor of briefly interviewing the amazing, vivacious and gorgeous Los Angeles, California resident during her downtime via the phone route.
RG: For the avid readers who haven't picked up your new book as of yet, what can they anticipate from 'Sexual Relations?'
JC: In my book, I, along with some of my celebrity friends, share tips, ideas, secrets, anecdotes and stories about our lives and personal experiences in regards to our releationships. It's not just about sex; it's also about the mental and the emotional connection - whether it's with your significant other of someone you're dating....We give tips and ideas on how to create that intimacy that's missing in so many relationships nowadays. The intimacy has to be there for things to work out, and I strongly believe in that.
RG: How long did it take you to get the new book together?
JC: I actually started writing 'Sexual Relations' about 4-5 years ago, and it took me a year and a half to get the book together for it to be released.
RG: What have been the keys to your successful marriage to Doug for almost two decades to this point?
JC: COMMUNICATION, RESPECT and INTIMACY. Those are very important, and have been the foundation of our marriage. We've been husband and wife for 18 years so far, and every year since, I can tell him anything at anytime.
RG: What's the best piece of advice you can give to a talented and ambitious young lady who aspires to do what you do as a multi-faceted entrepreneur?
JC: Follow your dreams....Set goals for yourself....Do research and be educated on whatever it is you want to get into.
RG: Being the reality TV star that you are, what do you think is the biggest misconception that's out there about Jackie Christie?
JC: That I'm crazy! (Laughs) If you meet me in person, you'll see and witness that I'm one of the nicest people you will ever meet with a kind heart to a fault.
*Catch the all-around awesome and beautiful Jackie in a sure-to-be explosive and compelling season No. 3 of 'Basketball Wives: L.A..' starting Monday night 2/17/2K14 on the VH1 network.
*BIG kudos go out to renowned celebrity publicist ERNEST JACKSON of MNS Media Group for blessing me with the opportunty to interview the lovely Jackie!
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from the sports world this past week:
NFL: The Seattle Seahawks won their first-ever Super Bowl championship in dominating fashion, defeating the Denver Broncos 43-8 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Linebacker Malcolm Smith, who intercepted an errant throw by Peyton Manning and returned it 69 yards for a big touchdown that made it 22-0 in the second quarter and also recovered a fumble by Broncos WR Demaryius Thomas, was voted the game's Most Valuable Player. 111.5 million viewers tuned in to The Big Game - becoming the most-watched televised event ever....Postseason Awards: NFL MVP and A.P. Offensive Player of the Year - QB Peyton Manning, Denver Broncos; Defensive Player of the Year - LB Luke Kuechly, Carolina Panthers; Coach of the Year - Ron Rivera, Carolina Panthers; Offensive Rookie of the Year - RB Eddie Lacy, Green Bay Packers; Defensive Rookie of the Year - DT Sheldon Richardson, New York Jets; Comeback Player of the Year - QB Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers....Michael Strahan, Derrick Brooks, Aeneas Williams, Andre Reed and Walter Jones were introduced as the 2K14 class of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Also newly inducted via the Veterans Committee were former defensive end Claude Humphrey and Ray Guy, who became the first punter ever to be so honored as a Hall-of-Famer.
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 1/27 - Sunday 2/2)....Eastern Conference - G Kyle Lowry, Toronto Raptors; Western Conference - G Goran Dragic, Phoenix Suns....Players of the Month (January 2K14): East - F Carmelo Anthony, New York Knicks; West - F Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder...Rookies of the Month (January 2K14): East - G Michael Carter-Williams, Philadelphia 76ers; West - G Trey Burke, Utah Jazz...Coaches of the Month (January 2K14): East - Jason Kidd, Brooklyn Nets; West - David Joerger, Memphis Grizzlies....The Indiana Pacers signed talented and oft-injured center Andrew Bynum for the rest of the regular season and playoffs. Bynum will be the backup for All-Star Roy Hibbert....40-year-old veteran point guard Steve Nash returned to game action after being sidelined on the IR list since 11/10/2K13....Talented young power forward Anthony Davis of the New Orleans Pelicans was chosen to replace the injured Kobe Bryant on the West All-Star roster.
MLB: First phase of Spring Traning (pitchers and catchers) began this week....Legendary New York Mets broadcaster and Hall-Of-Fame player Ralph Kiner passed away at the age of 91....The Atlanta Braves re-signed star players - 1B Freedie Freeman (8-years, $125M) and CF Jason Heyward (2-years, $13.3M) to contract extensions....Notable Free-Agent Signings: SP Bronson Arroyo, Arizona Diamondbacks (2-years, $23.5M); 1B Mark Trumbo, Arizona Diamondbacks (1-year, $4.8M); RP Fernando Rodney, Seattle Mariners (2-years, $14M)....47-year-old former three-time World Series champion pitcher Curt Schilling was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer....New York Yankees embattled 3B Alex Rodriguez will officially serve his historic season-long suspension for alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs after dropping lawsuits he filed against the league.
*The 2K14 Winter Olympics got underway in Sochi, Russia for all of the competing athletes from around the world.
Men's College Basketball: (A.P. Top Ten) - 1. Syracuse 2. Arizona 3. Florida 4. Wichita State 5. San Diego State 6. Villanova 7. Cincinnati 8. Kansas 9. Michigan State 10. Michigan
Women's College Basketball: (A.P. Top Ten) - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Stanford 4. Louisville 5. Duke 6. South Carolina 7. Baylor 8. Tennessee 9. Penn State 10. Maryland
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from the sports world this past week:
Pro Tennis (Australian Open): Stanislas Wawrinka of Switzerland won his first major championship, defeating top-ranked Rafael Nadal, who dealt with back issues during the finals matchup. On the women's side, 31-year-old Li Na of China finally broke through in Melbourne with her first Aussie singles title over upstart Dominika Cibulkova - becoming the oldest woman to win the tournament.
NBA: The reserves for the upcoming All-Star Game were announced: Eastern Conference - F Chris Bosh, Miami Heat; G DeMar DeRozan, Toronto Raptors; C Roy Hibbert, Indiana Pacers; G Joe Johnson, Brooklyn Nets; F Paul Millsap, Atlanta Hawks; G John Wall, Washington Wizards; C Joakim Noah, Chicago Bulls. *Notable snub: G Lance Stephenson, Indiana Pacers....Western Conference - F LaMarcus Aldridge, Portland Trail Blazers; C Dwight Howard, Houston Rockets; G James Harden, Houston Rockets; G Damien Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers; F Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks; G Tony Parker, San Antonio Spurs; G Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers. *Notable snub: G Goran Dragic, Phoenix Suns. The All-Star Game will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana on Sunday 2/16....Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant had his 12-game streak of scoring 30+ points snapped in his team's 120-95 win over the Brooklyn Nets on the road. The feat was the third-longest in the league over the last three decades. (Kobe Bryant - 16; Tracy McGrady - 14)....Veteran Denver Nuggets reserve guard Nate Robinson will miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery to repair torn ACL in his left knee....As of Friday 1/31, the Indiana Pacers continue to pace the East at 35-10, while out West, the Oklahoma City Thunder, despite the loss of their All-Star guard Russell Westbrook and the insane play of Kevin Durant, are leading the pack with their 38-10 mark.
Men's College Basketball: Associated Press Top 10 - 1. Arizona 2. Syracuse 3. Florida 4. Wichita State 5. San Diego State 6. Kansas 7. Michigan State 8. Oklahoma State 9. Villanova 10. Michigan....Kansas Jayhawks phenom freshman swingman Andrew Wiggins scored a season-high 29 points in a 92-81 victory over Iowa State....Duke Blue Devils forward Jabari Parker set the team record by scoring 20+ points in his 12th game as a freshman by scoring 21 points in a 80-65 win over Pitt.
Women's College Basketball: Associated Press Top 10 - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Duke 4. Stanford 5. Lousiville 6. U.N.C. 7. South Carolina 8. Maryland 9. Baylor 10. Tennessee
NHL: The New York Rangers beat both of their local rivals - the New Jersey Devils (7-3) - and the New York Islanders (2-1) - to sweep the two-game outdoors series at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York City. Both games - despite the frigid temperatures - drew over 50,000 fans....As of Friday 1/31, Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins lead the East with 78 points (38-14-2 OT losses), and the Anaheim Ducks continue to roll strong out West with 85 points in the standings. (40-11-5 OT losses)
NFL: Festivities for Super Bowl 48 got underway in full swing in both New York City and parts of New Jersey....After a successful 2K13 regular season and playoff appearance in the NFC division round, the Carolina Panthers rewarded head coach Ron Rivera with a three-year contract extension.
MLB: 2K5 A.L. batting champion and seven-time All-Star infielder Michael Young announced his retirement. Young spent the majority of his career and enjoyed great success with the Texas Rangers.
Sochi Winter Games: Minnesota Wild veteran winger Zach Parise was named captain of the USA men's hockey squad.
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from the sports world this past week:
NFL: In an epic battle, the Seattle Seahawks edged out the San Francisco 49ers 23-17 to win the NFC championship and advance to Super Bowl 48 and play the Denver Broncos, who captured the AFC crown by defeating the New England Patriots 26-16. This year's league championship game will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday 2/2 between the No. 1 offense (Broncos) and No. 1 defense. (Seahawks)....Veteran offensive lineman David Diehl announced his retirement after 11 seasons and two Super Bowl championships with the New York Giants.
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 1/13 - Sunday 1/19)....Eastern Conference - F Paul George, Indiana Pacers; Western Conference - F Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder....New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony set a single-game franchise record by scoring 62 points in the team's 125-96 victory over the Charlotte Bobcats at Madison Square Garden. Anthony's feat was also the most points ever scored by one player at the World's Most Famous Arena, and is the season-high thus far for any player in the league thus far....The starting lineups for this year's All-Star Game in New Orleans, Louisiana were announced and were voted on by the fans: EAST - G Kyrie Irving, Cleveland Cavaliers; G Dwyane Wade, Miami Heat; F LeBron James, Miami Heat; F Carmelo Anthony, New York Knicks; F Paul George, Indiana Pacers.....WEST - G Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors; G Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers; F Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder; F Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers; F Kevin Love, Minnesota Timberwolves.
MLB: The New York Yankees signed talented 25-year-old Japanese pitcher Masashiro Tanaka to a seven-year, $155M contract.....The Tampa Bay Rays re-sign first baseman James Loney to a three-year, $21M extension, and signed free-agent closer Grant Balfour to a two-year, $12M deal....The Chicago White Sox extended the contract of manager Robin Ventura.
Pro Tennis (Australian Open): In the men's bracket, eight-seeded upstart Stanislas Wawrinka of Switerland upset Novak Djokovic in the quarterfinals en route to advancing to the final on Sunday 1/26 against top-seed Rafael Nadal of Spain.....On the women's side, both top-seeded Serena Williams and defending Aussie Open champ Victoria Azarenka were eliminated. No. 20-seed Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia will play fourth-seeded Li Na of China for the singles title on Saturday 1/25.
Men's College Basketball (Division I): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. Arizona 2. Syracuse 3. Michigan State 4. Villanova 5. Wichita State 6. Florida 7. San Diego State 8. Kansas 9. Wisconsin 10. Iowa
Women's College Basketball (Division I): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Duke 4. Villanova 5. Louisville 6. Maryland 7. U.N.C. 8. Oklahoma State 9. Kentucky 10. South Carolina
RG: How has the early success of your hit VH1 network reality TV series MARRYING THE GAME been for you and your family thus far?
TC: It has taken some time for me to get used to the attention that's on my children and myself. At this point, the children are adjusting and enjoying the attention. As long as they continue to enjoy the experience, we will remain blessed to share our lives with the world.
RG: I've been a fan of your fiance' (hip-hop artist THE GAME) since Day One with his music and acting career, and now with the reality series two seasons in, I'm even a bigger fan due to his role as a loving father to his kids. How gratifying is that, being the equally loving and amazing mother that you are to sons Justice and Harlem, and daughter Cali?
TC: Justice, Harlem and Cali are amazing kids. They are already well-rounded and respectful for their young ages so far. I only know Jayceon (GAME's government name) to be the awesome dad that he is. I love that he has always made sure that there was a balance between his career and his love of fatherhood. He treats his kids with the love they deserve.
RG: As a proud educator presently teaching young children, how important is it for you to insure that your students are at their best - not only in the classroom, but also with life in general?
TC: I feel it is incredibly important for me to follow a philosophy of teaching the 'whole' child. My curriculum focuses on not only challenging their minds with classroom lessons....It truly seeks to give them an education that shapes their characters. In my classroom, they learn life lessons that teach them the importance of having integrity and self-confidence so that they can achieve their desired goals and dreams without reservations.
RG: From an entrepreneurial standpoint, what business ventures are you actively looking into, or that you are currently involved with now?
TC: My major focus right now is my children's book titled THE LITTLE GIRL WHO LOST HER SMILE. This series of children's books was inspired by one of my former students whose vibrant smile in her kindergarden photo had diminished by the time she took her fifth-grade class photo. I spent time with her exploring what caused this change, and as a result, I sought to create a series that taught children how to combat some of the issues they would face as they grew older so that those 'kindergarden' smiles weren't lost forever.
RG: What have been the keys to you and GAME's relationship to this point?
TC: I think the ability to be fully expressed in communication has been key for myself and Jayceon. I don't hold back speaking the truth to him, so he knows that he can always expect an unfiltered look into our life together from my perspective.
RG: If you had the power to change the world for the better, what would that change be?
TC: Often times, OUTLOOK is the greatest factor in some of life's greatest triumphs and failures. I would definitely seek to create a world that was more positive, supportive, and collaborative in its approach to dealing with life.
RG: In five-to-ten-years from now, with GOD's blessing, Tiffney Cambridge will be -
TC: An author, the mother of two well-adjusted teenagers, and a WIFE!
RG: Which style are you most comfortable in - dressed up or dressed down?
TC: BOTH!!!!.....I am unapologetically a woman who LOVES FASHION!
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from this past week in Sports Land:
NFL: In the NFC division round of the playoffs, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Carolina Panthers 23-10 on the road to advance to their third consecutive NFC championship game. They will try and make a return trip to the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks, who outlasted the New Orleans Saints 23-15 at home. On the AFC side, the Denver Broncos edged out a resilient San Diego Chargers squad 24-17 on their home field to move on and play the New England Patriots, who dominated the Indianapolis Colts 43-22 behind a potent ground game led by RB LeGarette Blount. Both conference championship matchups will take place on Sunday 1/19 for the right to play in Super Bowl 48 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday 2/2.....New head coach hires - Ken Whisenhunt, Tennessee Titans; Mike Zimmer, Minnesota Vikings; Jim Caldwell, Detroit Lions.
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 1/6 - Sunday 1/12)....Eastern Conference - F Carmelo Anthony, New York Knicks; Westerm Conference - C DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings....Miami Heat center and 2K7 No. 1-overall draft pick Greg Oden played in his first game since 2K9 in the team's 114-97 loss to the Washington Wizards on the road. Oden scored 6 points and grabbed two rebounds in eight minutes of action, as he continues to work his way back from the various knee ailments that have curtailed his once-promising career. In other Heat news, the organization was honored this past week at the White Hose by President Barack Obama for the second straight year for winning the championship....The contending Golden State Warriors acquired much-needed backcourt help in guards Jordan Crawford and MarShon Brooks from the Boston Celtics in a three-team trade that also included the aforementioned Miami Heat, who sent veteran forward/center Joel Anthony to Boston.
MLB: The league suspended New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez for the entire 2K14 regular season and playoffs for alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs - the longest punishment in history. Rodriguez continues to deny that he did no wrong, and will fight the case in Federal Court. So the saga continues....Also making history, the league announced that an expansion of instant reply will be implemented this upcoming season. The new change was voted on unanimously by the team owners....Notable re-signings: LHP Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers (7-years, $215M; highest ever for a pitcher; highest per-season salary by any position player in history - $30,714,286); LHP David Price, Tampa Bay Rays. (1-year, $14M)
Men's College Baskball (Division I): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. Arizona 2. Syracuse 3. Wisconsin 4. Michigan State 5. Wichita State 6. Villanova 7. Florida 8. Iowa State 9. Oklahoma State 10. San Diego State
Women's College Basketball (Division I): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Duke 4. Stanford 5. Louisville 6. Maryland 7. Baylor 8. South Carolina 9. UNC 10. Kentucky
Pro Tennis: The sport's first major of the calendar year - the Australian Open - got underway in Melbourne, where temperatures have soared to triple-digit figures this past week during play. Novak Djokovic (Men's) and Serena Williams (Women's) both enter the tournament as the No. 1 seeds.
NHL: As of Friday 1/18, the Anaheim Ducks own the leagues top overall record at 36-9-5. (19-0-2 at home; 77 points).....The Pittsburgh Penguins lead the pack in the Eastern Conference at 34-12-2. (70 points)
Pro Soccer: With 69 goals scored for both Real Madrid and Portugal in 2K13, Christiano Ronaldo dethroned Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi's four-year reign as the top player by capturing the FIFA Ballon d'Or award.
My 'notable' happenings and keynotes of the sports world this past week:
College Football: The #1 Florida State Seminoles closed out their unbeaten season in dramatic, come-from-behind fashion with a 34-31 victory over the #2-ranked Auburn Tigers in the Vizio BCS National Championship Game - their first title in 15 years. 'Noles QB Jameis Winston (20-23, 237 yards, 3 TDs) made history by becoming the first freshman signal-caller to win both the Heisman Trophy and the national title in the same season....New head coach hires - Charlie Strong, Texas Longhorns; James Franklin, Penn State; Bobby Petrino, Louisville Cardinals....2K12 Heisman Trophy winning QB Johnny Manziel forgoes his Junior season and will enter this year's NFL Draft.
MLB: Pitching greats Greg Maddux and Tom Glavine, along with former two-time AL MVP Frank Thomas, are the new inductees into the 2K14 Baseball Hall of Fame. Former Houston Astros great Craig Biggio nearly became a fourth member of this year's class - falling short by just two votes.(74.8% of the required 75% needed for induction)....The Los Angeles Dodgers extend manager Don Mattingly to a new three-year contract extension.
NFL: The postseason began with the Wild Card round, as both the San Diego Chargers and Indianapolis Colts advanced to the division round in the AFC, while in the NFC, the defending conference champion San Francisco 49ers and the New Orleans Saints successfully moved on to the second round....Head coach hiring: Jay Gruden, Washington Redskins.
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 12/30/2K13 - Sunday 1/5/2K14)....Eastern Conference - F Thaddeus Young, Philadelphia 76ers; Western Conference - F David Lee, Golden State Warriors....Players of the Month (December 2K13): East - F LeBron James, Miami Heat; West - F Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder....Rookies of the Month (December 2K13): East - G Victor Oladipo, Orlando Magic; West - G Trey Burke, Utah Jazz....Coaches of the Month (December 2K13): East - Dwane Casey, Toronto Raptors; West - Jeff Hornacek, Phoenix Suns....The Cleveland Cavaliers traded talented yet disgruntled and oft-injured center Andrew Bynum to the Chicago Bulls for All-Star forward Luol Deng and future draft picks.
Men's College Basketball (Division I): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. Arizona 2. Syracuse 3. Ohio State 4. Wisconsin 5. Michigan State 6. Wichita State 7. Baylor 8. Villanova 9. Iowa State 10. Florida
Women's College Basketball (Division I): Associated Press Top 10 - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Duke 4. Stanford 5. Lousiville 6. Maryland 7. Baylor 8. Tennessee 9. Kentucky 10. South Carolina....*Standout Performance: Baylor All-American G Odyssey Sims scored 48 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in the team's victory over West Virginia.
Winter Sports: 29-year-old Olympic gold medal-winning skiier Lindsey Vonn will not complete at the upcoming Winter Games in Sochi, Russia due to her injured knee that will require surgery.
Soccer: Legendary Potugese player Eusebio passed away in his hometown of Lisbon, Portugal at the age of 71 due to heart failure.
Having recently released her incredibly produced and sexy debut calendar for 2K14 titled 'Provocative Curves: 365 Days A Year,' New York City native 'Curvy' Cori Quinn has triumphantly set the bar on a high level for Plus-Size women everywhere with a body of work that has not been seen before. This bright-minded, stunningly beautiful resident of Baltimore, Maryland exudes pure confidence through her firm belief in GOD, and with the groundbreaking success of her calendar, Quinn hopes that it will only inspire the many curvy, Plus-Size ladies like herself to be totally in love with who they are, and that they too can succeed in whatever it is that they aspire to do in life. 'As a Plus-Size woman of color, I am sexy, confident, and capable of showing different phases of myself.' said the lovely Leo during during my recent phone interview with her. 'And I want "big" women like myself to have that same air of confidence and belief in the beauty of themselves as well.'
Not only is 'Curvy' Cori an amazing model, but an aspiring Dramatic actress who is more than determined to make her mark in the industry in the very near future. 'I'm an intelligent, educated woman with a Masters Degree from Towson University, and a Bachelors Degree from Morgan State University, but at the same time, I have an edgy element to my character as well.' With having legendary, multitalented entertainer Queen Latifah as someone she strongly looks up to as her biggest inspiration ('She IS what I am trying to become.' Cori expressed during our chat), the world can be sure to anticipate future greatness from Quinn, as she continues to expand her brand as not just as a model, but as an all-around entertainer and also as a philanthropist, supporting charities such as the American Heart Association.
To purchase Cori's sexy 2K14 calendar, and to keep up with her world in motion, log on to www.CurvyCori.com
*BIG kudos goes out to publicist ERNEST JACKSON of M.N.S. Media Group (www.twitter.com/StricklyForTheP) for blessing me with the opportunity to interview the talented, humble, and oh-so-fine Miss 'Curvy' Cori!
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2K14!.....My 'notable' happenings and keynotes from this past week in the sports world:
NFL: The regular season concluded with both the AFC Denver Broncos (13-3) and the NFC Seattle Seahawks (13-3) finishing with the top record in the league and earning No. 1-seeds plus home-field advantage in the upcoming playoffs....Wild-Card Round: Saturday 1/4, 4:35pm EST - Kansas City Chiefs (11-5) at Indianapolis Colts (11-5); 8:10pm EST - New Orleans Saints (11-5) at Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)....Sunday 1/5, 1:05pm EST - San Diego Chargers (9-7) at Cincinnati Bengals (11-5); 4:40pm EST - San Francisco 49ers (12-4) at Green Bay Packers (8-7-1). The New England Patriots (12-4) and the Carolina Panthers (12-4) also wrapped up bye-weeks and will play in the Division round. The defending Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens finished 8-8 and missed making the postseason. The Houston Texans (2-14) with the worst record this season will have the overall number-one pick of the upcoming draft in May....Denver Broncos QB Peyton Manning added to his certain Hall-of-Fame resume' by setting a new league record for most passing yards in a season - 5,477 - in a 34-14 victory over the Oakland Raiders on the road. Manning also finished the season with 55 touchdown passes - a new record as well....Head coach firings: Rob Chudzinski, Cleveland Browns; Greg Schiano, Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Mike Shanahan, Washington Redskins; Jim Schwartz, Detroit Lions; Leslie Frazier, Minnesota Vikings. Head coach hiring: Lovie Smith, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bill O'Brien, Houston Texans....The Chicago Bears re-sign QB Jay Cutler to a seven-year, $126M contract extension. ($50M guaranteed)....31-year-old veteran running back Brandon Jacobs announced his retirement after nine years in the league and two Super Bowl rings with the New York Giants.
NBA: Players of the Week (Monday 12/23/2K13 - Sunday 12/29/2K13)....Easterm Conference - F Chris Bosh, Miami Heat; Western Conference - F Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder....Notable player injuries: PG Chris Paul, Los Angeles Clippers (Separated right shoulder; out 3-5 weeks); F/C Al Horford, Atlanta Hawks (Torn pectoral muscle; out for the season)....As of Friday 1/3/2K14, the Indiana Pacers continue to own the league's best record at 25-6, with the Portland Trail Blazers (26-7) right behind them.
College Football: The Oklahoma Sooners upset the defending national champion Alabama Crimson Tide 45-31 in the Allstate Sugar Bowl....Louisville Cardinals QB Teddy Bridgewater will bypass his senior season and enter the 2K14 NFL Draft, and is projected to be the first signal-caller selected this coming May in New York City.
NHL: The 2K14 Winter Classic outdoor matchup between the home team Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Maple Leafs played to the largest crowd ever to see a pro hockey game - 105, 591 - at Michigan Stadium (home of the Wolverines college football program) in Ann Arbor. The Maple Leafs won the game 3-2 in a shootout amidst the snowy, arctic elements of the weather on New Year's Day....In other Maple Leafs news, the organization re-signed 28-year-old defenseman/team captain Dion Phaneuf to a seven-year, $49M contract extension.
Men's College Basketball: Associated Press Top 10 - 1. Arizona 2. Syracuse 3. Ohio State 4. Wisconsin 5. Michigan State 6. Oklahoma State 7. Duke 8. Wichita State 9. Baylor 10. Oregon
Women's College Basketball: Associated Press Top 10 - 1. U.Conn 2. Notre Dame 3. Duke 4. Stanford 5. Tennessee 6. Kentucky 7. Louisville 8. Maryland 9. Baylor 10. UNC....The No. 3 jersey once worn by former All-American Candace Parker was retired by the Tennessee Lady Vols organization.
