[image-1] inexplicably used the drafting of (Caucasian) Tyler Hansbrough to mention that (Caucasian) General Manager Larry Bird was building a basketball team around too many... Caucasians. Stimulating detective work. During the interview, Kravitz failed to ask Bird much less relevant questions like how his first round draft pick, a national champion, college player of the year and the ACC's all-time leading scorer, fits into the Pacers' future. One day, race will no longer be an issue in sports. Until then, we'll be subjected to articles like these.
[image-2]After being demoted from the Giants rotation last month, Jonathan Sanchez (2-8) took the mound Friday night in place of the injured Randy Johnson. Proving you can in fact get a second chance to make a first impression, Sanchez struck out 11 batters and threw a no-hitter, the first for San Francisco in 33 years. Seeing Sanchez embrace his tearful father in the dugout after the game is the reason we watch sports. However, had Bob Kravitz written this snippet, he likely would have mentioned Sanchez was the first Puerto Rican Giant pitcher to have thrown a no-hitter.
[image-3]Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France Champion and former beau of Sheryl Crow, remains in the running at this year's grueling bicycle competition. The race's final stage is July 26th. Another unprecedented victory would further cement Armstrong's legacy as the greatest cyclist ever and once again thumb the nose at those trying to accuse him of doping.
[image-4]The Mavericks were involved in a four-team trade, bringing Shawn Marion to Dallas. Team owner Mark Cuban showed he's still interested in surrounding Dirk Nowitzki with championship caliber talent, but will it be enough to keep up with the joneses? Marion is one of a long list of marquee names to have been traded this off-season, a list which includes Vince Carter, Shaquille O'Neal, Ron Artest, Richard Jefferson and very possibly Carlos Boozer. The wheels on the bus go round and round.
[image-5]What's a sportschumpdate without mentioning Brett Favre? The Minnesota Vikings are cashing in on their Mississippi frequent flyer miles. Their trainer now travels regularly to check up on their 40-year old investment, further leading us to believe that barring any unforeseen failure to recoup from surgery, Brett Favre will be suiting up for the Minnesota Vikings this fall. RB Adrian Peterson carried the ball 363 times last season. Anyone else fear he'll get fewer attempts in 2009 with Favre behind center?
[image-6]Manny Ramirez was ejected from a game this week, having returned from suspension only days earlier. Facing a 3-2 count, the final pitch of his at bat appeared to be well outside the strike zone, prompting Manny to walk to first base. The umpire then called a third strike. Walking toward the outfield in disgust, Manny removed his elbow pad and nonchalantly tossed it over his shoulder. It fell at the feet of the umpire who promptly ejected him. Manny was also called out on another questionable strike earlier in the game. Human error in officiating or grudge against an alleged substance user? You be the judge.
[image-7]The legend of Phil Ivey continues. In an effort to confirm he is the world's best poker player, Ivey remains among the chip leaders at this year's World Series of Poker Main Event. He has also won two other events at this year's WSOP: $2500 Omaha 8 or Better/Seven Card Stud or Better and $2500 No-Limit 2-7 Draw Lowball. Rest assured, the Main Event bracelet is the one he wants. Fear for those at the poker table who get in his way.
[image-8]Football season is less than two months away.
