Black Top Dreams to Hardy-Wood Ending

Although it’s been more than a month since the Johnnies magical season came to a halting stop against Gonzaga, Dwight Hardy continues to work hard, knowing his run is far from over.

Understanding that his life has been anything but easy and having to work for everything, Hardy continues to put in grueling work outs in the offseason, sweating profusely, knowing that he still has critics out there to answer.  

Hardy earned his stripes growing up in the projects in the Bronx, something few people truly understand. He was raised in a rough neighborhood, surrounded by drugs, violence, and gangs, vices that often crush those that are susceptible to them. But not Hardy, he has done something truly amazing with his life. He has the opportunity to capitalize on something few dream about, turning playing basketball for fun into a career.

The word quit just does not seem to be in the young man’s vocabulary. You often here a color-commentator rave about a player’s “stick-to-it-ive-ness”, meaning, dogged perseverance and resolute tenacity, according to Dictionary.com. That’s the phrase to describe Dwight Hardy, stick-to-it-ive-ness. 

Dwight Hardy, Johnny Jungle

That same attitude could be seen throughout St. John’s basketball season. Hardy, along with his fellow teammates, helped put the St. John’s Red Storm back on the collegiate basketball map this year with upsets over power schools such as Duke, the University of Pittsburgh, UConn, and Georgetown. Many of the so-called experts of college basketball had the Red Storm as a middle of the pack team in the Big East, but Hardy and his fellow Johnnies had other plans. The team put in great work throughout the season, and with the help of stellar play from Hardy, made a run that made New York City proud, evoking images of the glory days of Chris Mullin and Mark Jackson. They too take great pride in what they accomplished as a team, and Hardy reflects on it daily.

“I watch our games from this season ever day, it’s tough not to reflect and see the progress we made. Sometimes I wish I had another year of eligibility, that way I could play with these young guys coming in, but I’m looking forward to the future and am moving on,” said Hardy.

Hardy came into this season as merely a role player but flourished into a star, taking the city by storm. He finished the season averaging 18.3 points per game, hitting big shot after big shot, evident by his tight-rope walk along the baseline to defeat the then ranked fourth in the nation Pitt Panthers. When it was all said and done, Hardy was a First-Team All Big East Player, and was in consideration for Big East Player of the Year. Who saw that coming at the seasons start? But with his never give up attitude, anything is possible with Hardy.

Now that the season has ended, Hardy, on most days can be found inside of Taffner Field House, where he spends his free time in between class fine tuning his game. Coming into this season, few thought that Dwight Hardy would have the season that he had, but it’s that non-complacent attitude that has driven him to success.

“I’m just in here working on becoming a better Point Guard. In college I was relied on to be the scorer but now I have to concentrate on my ball-handling and leading a team, that’s what the scouts say I need to do so I’m doing it,” said Hardy.

Hardy knows about hard work so he’s not going to give in easily. Growing up in the Bronx, he watched many talented players fall by the way side as a result of drugs and gang violence. They were talented but let their opportunities just fall through their fingers, something that Hardy won’t let happen to him. This has kept him driven through his whole life.

“I came from a rough neighborhood, man. The projects are not an easy place to grow up with drugs and gang life around. But my family and friends kept me on good path. The older guys I would ball with would always tell me, ‘Just don’t end up like me man, keep doing what you’re doing and go somewhere.’ I’ve always had that mind set to get out, and make something of myself,” said Hardy.

Hardy learned lessons from every encounter he made in life. “Buckets”, as he’s known on the street-ball court, crashed the boards and hit the blacktop with legends and former All-Americans. He thrived in an environment where many would fall into the shadows, but Hardy shined in this rough and tumble jungle and came out a king. Hardy translated this gritty attitude to his Big East play. He believes the Big East is a lot like the street-ball courts, citing that as a reason why he was able to have success.

When asked what Dwight Hardy will be doing in five years, without hesitation, he replied:

“Basketball, that’s not even a question. Whether it’s oversees or the NBA, its basketball man. That’s what I’m going to be doing, no question,” said Hardy.

Hardy, New York Post

That’s the same attitude that drove Hardy to where he is right now. After averaging 39.0 points per game in high school to then having to go to a prep school for a year because of SAT issues, then bringing his game to Iowa for Indian Hills Community College, and then finally bringing St. John’s back into the spotlight. It was always about basketball because he knew that was his way out.

“I was always taught to focus on school and basketball, so that’s what I did. Going to Iowa really helped me; I left my family and friends behind and really got to focus on the two. I’m on schedule to graduate in May and I’m moving on with basketball,” said Hardy.

Don’t think that Hardy will forget where he came from though. The first thing he plans on doing when he gets settled down is getting a house for his family, because that’s what it’s all about, family first.

“Family First, I like that saying, that might be my next tattoo. I’m running out of room to put things but I’m going to have to find a place to put that. Family First,” said Hardy.

Wherever basketball takes Dwight ‘Buckets’ Hardy, you know one thing for certain, he’s never going to give up and be content in life because the guys got stick-to-it-ive-ness. 

Where Brooklyn At?

Carmelo Anthony, looking to return home to the New York market may soon have his wish granted.

By now, we have all seen the proposed trade that would send Anthony, Chauncey Billups, and Rip Hamilton to the Nets, Derek Favors, Devin Harris, Anthony Morrow, two first round picks, and a number of role players to the Nuggets. The Pistons would receive Troy Murphy and Johan Petro, ultimately two expiring contracts in exchange for Hamilton. This deal has been leaked for almost a week now and could be completed at any time.

The Nets would finally land a marquee star, as a result of gutting their current roster, to build around after losing out on "The Big Three" to the Heat the past off-season. Anthony would land in one of the biggest sports markets, which he has stated is a major factor. Of course, 'Melo would have to play in Newark while the Nets wait to move to Brooklyn and would also have to wait for the roster to fill out. He would have a young center, Brook Lopez to work with and also, if the Nets only have to give up two of their five first round picks over the next two years, they have more chips. The Nets could decide to keep those picks and build or move them for players.

Chauncey Billups, the Denver native, would once again be on the move. He would be reunited with his old teammate Rip Hamilton, and would clearly be the leader on a young Nets team. Billups only has two years remaining on his deal, which leaves the door open for Chris Paul in 2012.

Mikhail Prokhorov

All of this speculation is for nothing though, it all comes down to if the trade is completed and if 'Melo will reach a contract agreement with the Nets. If the deal is completed, I can't see him turning it down. He has really burned some bridges in Denver and is it really that much of a better situation than New Jersey. Mikhail Prokhorov and Billy King will make their pitch to 'Melo, a pitch that Lebron James said was very impressive, and he will be on board.

If the Nets can land 'Melo then their franchise has taken a giant step towards the future of building a championship franchise in Brooklyn.  

Weekend Picks

Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers
(12-4, 5-3 away)     (12-4, 5-3 home)

If this match-up does not get you excited, then you are not a football fan. These two teams are about as evenly matched as you can find in football. Whenever they meet up, it's a bloodbath, usually ending with one play that defines the game. The forecast has about an inch of snow falling throughout the game, which should make it even more appealing. The big question is how aggressive Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco will be able to be against two tough defenses and the weather. Ultimately, I'm going to go with the better quarterback to find a way to win.

Prediction: Steelers 21 Ravens 17

Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons
(10-6, 3-5 away)        (13-3, 7-1 home)

I don't know if there has ever been a number one seed that is getting as little respect as the Falcons are getting in this match-up. Honestly, I do not see it as a reflection on the Falcons as much as it is the love affair that is occurring with the Packers. These two met early in the season and Atlanta ended up on top. Matty Ice is unstoppable at home, he always finds a way to get the win but I am going against him in this game. The key player will be James Starks, running back for the Packers, if he can get going against the Falcons defense then Aaron Rodgers will have a field day.

Prediction: Packers 31 Falcons 24

Seattle Seahawks vs. Chicago Bears
(7-9, 2-6 away)         (11-5, 5-3 home)

Oh Seattle, a week after knocking off the reigning NFL Champions the Saints, they still are receiving little respect. Granted they went 7-9 in the regular season and won a division that was just down right ugly, but still they just put a beating on Saints in a game that no one gave them a fighting chance. I can see the laid back surfer-dude, Pete Carroll telling he team "It's us against the world guys." The bottom line is, last week was Seattle's Super Bowl, they were home and got an unbelievable performance out of Matt Hasselbeck. They fed off of the crowds energy and it propelled them to a victory. The Bears will come out intense at home and deliver an early knockout punch. Cutler will throw for three touchdowns and probably at least two interceptions but Chicago's defense will stop Seattle all day.

Prediction: Chicago 35 Seattle 10

New York Jets vs. New England Patriots 
(11-5, 6-2 away)   (14-2, 8-0 home)

Talk is cheap, play the game. That being said, Rex Ryan and the Jets will really have to put their best foot forward or else they will end up with their foot in their mouth. Alright, its out of my system. Forget about the shellacking that took place the last time these two teams faced each other. The Jets' defense has figured out how to replace Jim Leonhard and are playing much better. They will have to come out and establish the run early and control the clock. The only way to beat Tom Brady is to keep him on the sidelines. The Patriots have been the best team in league for most of the season and will be well prepared for this game. For me, it comes down to Mark Sanchez as the quarterback, and how confident do you feel with him Jets fans? Me, not too much. He'll make a big time mistake and the Pats will capitalize off of it.

Prediction: Patriots 20, Jets 14

El Capitan

Derek Jeter and the Yankees continue to talk about a new contract. The first offer was a reported 4-year deal in the neighborhood of $50 million. Not a bad deal, right? Wrong. Apparently the two are about $50 million apart.

Derek Jeter is the Yankees and the Yankees are Derek Jeter, they were meant to be together forever and separating them just seems wrong. Am i saying that the two will walk their separate ways and bid adieu? Not at all, I know that in the end Jeter will be back in pinstripes, wearing the interlocking NY on his cap and the number two on his back. I'm just hoping that feelings aren't hurt in this process. Jeter is not your everyday free-agent and he shouldn't be treated like one. I'm not saying give the guy whatever he wants, wrapped in a big bow. But you have to be wise.

Jeter is quickly approaching 3,000 hits, and he would be the first Yankee to accomplish this feat. He has been a key cog for five World Series Championships and is the face of baseball. Reports are that Jeter and his new trainer are talking about Jeter playing well into his forties, a majority of those years remaining at short stop. He knows a position change is in his future but not any time soon. So my advice to the Steinbrenners and Cashman, pony-up and pay for tradition. He has given you everything and now its time to show that you have his back. He is your captain and treat him like one. Work it out and do it in a professional matter. Get the deal done before Christmas, and move onto bigger fish. 

Football in Baseball Venues

Today Notre Dame will take on Army at the new Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. This is just the latest in the recent sports trend to switch up the arenas in which to play in. For instance, the NHL has the Winter Classic where they play hockey games outdoors, the NBA also does the same thing, having some games take place outdoors in warmer climates. Now though, College Football has crossed the line. Northwestern and Illinois will be facing off at the historic Wrigley Field. The only problem is, the game is not safe for the players.

Wrigley Field is not the largest of stadiums, and when it was converted into a football field the dimensions just didn't work out. One of the end-zones is right up against the wall in the outfield. This walls are made of brick so they decided to cover the brick wall with padding. Still, not a great idea. Now you have players running full speed, and ultimately the only way to stop themselves will be to run into the wall. This wall also takes away play calling. There are certain routes that a receiver can not run because of the spacing issue. As you can see in the picture the end-zone is literally up against the wall.

Well there has been a solution to this fiasco. The two teams will now play towards the same end-zone, eliminating the safety hazard. This just turns the game into a joke, though. Now it seems more like an Arena Football game or even a back yard game. It will be interesting to see how this all pans out and if there are any stories that follow the game. I'm sure one or two people could lose their jobs because of the field issues. The only reason this idea was put into motion was because engineers deemed it safe to play. I do know one thing for certain, this will most likely be the last football game at historic Wrigley Field.

BCS: Will Boise State Finally Get Their Chance?

This college football season has been a roller coaster ride. A number of different teams have held the number one ranking in the nation and now we are down to just four undefeated teams. They are, ranked one through four, Oregon, Auburn, Boise State, and TCU. This is Boise States' greatest chance at playing in the national championship game, thats if they can remain undefeated and an easy remaining schedule says they will.

Oregon has looked human at times, Auburn is in a tough SEC where any school can beat you at any time and TCU, in my opinion is overrated. So if Boise State does remain undefeated how could they not be in the national championship? Well they've gotten snubbed before so it could happen. If Oregon and Auburn both remain undefeated, chances are they will match-up against each other. This is why college football needs a playoff, so these teams get the chance to show they can play with the "big boys". Boise State has already proven that with convincing bowl wins in the past but it still is not enough.

Create a playoff bracket where the top twelve teams get to battle it out for the national championship. Give the top four teams a first round bye and then continue the season. Some will argue that the season will be too long, but it already goes into early January, so at most it would be one week longer. Not only does it make sense logically, it also makes sense financially. Yes, I get it bowl games are all about money, but you could just have those same companies sponsor the playoff games and money will still be made. We would finally get a clear cut champion without any people claiming they weren't offered a shot.

Will this happen? Probably not because as I said college bowl season is all about money and they make a ton of it. So we will have to suffer through another year of the BCS and argue about who really is the best team in the nation.

Newest Star in Pin-Stripes?

If you have the money and you're a Major League Baseball team, odds are you are going after Cliff Lee, with force. Lee, who over the past three to five years has solidified himself as one of the top pitchers in the game. All he does is win on the big stage, meaning the post-season, and the past two years he has carried teams into the playoffs. Now is his chance to cash in. Lee and his agent have made it a point though that they will sit and wait, making everyone come to them. They will go through the league team by team until they find a team that they believe is the perfect suitor for Lee. Most people, including myself, believe that will be the New York Yankees.

That's right folks, the rich get richer once again. The Yankees made a push at the trade deadline to get Lee but the Mariners simply used them a chips to set up a deal with Texas. Who knows, the the Yankees had Lee maybe they would have won back to back championships? But now is their chance to lock him up for the next five years and you could bet your money on the fact that they will get their man.

Forget about all the talk with his wife saying she doesn't like the New York fans because they cursed at her and spit at her. You know what his wife will like? Money. You know who has a lot of money to give her husband? The Yankees. So suck it up Mrs. Lee and next year you'll be cheering with those lovable Yankee fans instead of cheering against them.