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Most Talked About ESPN Stories

Isiah Thomas hoping for return

espn.go.com — By Scott Powers | ESPNChicago.com Isiah Thomas said Friday he isn't through with basketball just yet and would like either to be a college coach or in the NBA again. Thomas was fired as Florida International's coach in April after compiling a 26-65 record in three seasons.
Every college and NBA team avoids eye contact. RT @espn Isiah Thomas eyes return to college or NBA. http://t.co/bnAl7DiK

Florida tennis coach Andy Jackson resigns

insider.espn.go.com — GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- Florida men's tennis coach Andy Jackson, who won a pair of Southeastern Conference titles and got the Gators into the NCAA tournament 10 times, resigned on Friday after 11 seasons at the school. "I'm truly grateful for my time here and I hope to have the opportunity to coach again," Jackson said in a statement.

NASCAR - Aric Almirola is king for a day -- sort of - ESPN

espn.go.com — CONCORD, N.C. -- All had been introduced at the front table of the Charlotte Motor Speedway infield media center on Thursday night and the moderator was ready to begin the news conference with a statement from pole sitter Aric Almirola of Richard Petty Motorsports. "I guess it's the first time we've ever won a pole ..."
Worthy read for what The King said to Almirola RT @DNewtonespn Pole for 43 trumps all in motorsports http://t.co/05AOzcZs #.NASCAR #indycar

Miami will remain committed to ACC, athletic director Shawn Eichorst says

espn.go.com — Associated Press CORAL GABLES, Fla. -- Miami says it will remain committed to the Atlantic Coast Conference. Hurricanes athletic director Shawn Eichorst released a statement Friday saying the school has not had any "formal or informal discussions" about switching affiliations.
Miami AD says the school is committed to the ACC, but Clemson and FSU didn't sound as sure. http://t.co/0buDzaBG

Orlando Magic's Dwight Howard says he played no role in firing of Stan Van Gundy

espn.go.com — ESPN.com news services Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard told TMZ on Thursday he played no role in the team's decision to fire coach Stan Van Gundy. "I hate to see anyone lose their job," Howard told TMZ. "... Me and Stan ... we had our ups and downs ...
Riiiiiight... RT @espn Dwight Howard: I had no role in Stan Van Gundy's firing. http://t.co/igv9vvQl

Indianapolis Colts making bid for Dalllas Cowboys' Mike Jenkins, source says

espn.go.com — The Indianapolis Colts have made multiple trade offers to the Dallas Cowboys in an effort to acquire disgruntled cornerback Mike Jenkins, and the last one remains on the table, according to a league source. Cowboys coach Jason Garrett said this week that Dallas would not trade Jenkins.

East finals: Who will step up in Game 6?

espn.go.com — NEWARK, N.J. -- With the ghosts of the 1994 Eastern Conference finals dragging their chains around the edges of the current conference finals between longtime rivals the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils, Friday's Game 6 won't want for drama. "Where else would you rather be?
#NYRNJD From @ESPN_Burnside: Eastern Conference Finals Game 6: Who will step up? -- ESPN NY -- http://t.co/tQyHg1gy

W2W4: Devils vs. Rangers

espn.go.com — At a glance: The Devils have a chance to dispose of their Hudson River rivals and secure a spot in the Stanley Cup Finals with a win on home ice against the Rangers on Friday night in Game 6. There's no panic from the top-seeded Rangers, however.

Rick Reilly: Siri learns about the Thunder

espn.go.com — Commentary Credit: Howard Smith/US PresswireKevin Durant and Russell Westbrook are impressing everyone this year. Well, almost everyone. Siri, write a column about the Oklahoma City Thunder. OK, I ... am ready ... to write. It. Write how much I love them, Siri. How refreshing they are.

3-point shot: Another naval ship game?

espn.go.com — 1. Ohio State and Marquette are in negotiations to play on a naval ship in Charleston, S.C., on or around Veteran's Day, according to multiple sources familiar with their scheduling. The game would be organized by Morale Entertainment, the same group that set up the USS Carl Vinson game on 11-11-11 between North Carolina and Michigan State.
Who wants to see Ohio State's Deshaun Thomas shoot on a ship? Could happen, Andy Katz reports, OSU-Marquette in talks http://t.co/5D9GA6EF
#Buckeyes vs. Marquette on a naval ship? Could happen in November, sources tell ESPN. http://t.co/uHKeZFad #buckbk

Mets promote Egbert, demote Carson

espn.go.com — Right-hander Jack Egbert has been added to the roster of the New York Mets, who optioned left-hander Robert Carson to Double-A Binghamton of the Eastern League. Egbert, whose contract was selected from Triple-A Buffalo of the International League, was to be in uniform for Friday night's game against the San Diego Padres.

Chat rewind: Haley and Steelers offense

espn.go.com — For those who want a full transcript of the best chat in all of contact sports (we're just ahead of the roller derby one), you just have to click here. Sean (New York): Hey Jamison. Sean here again (Ravens fan) back with a couple questions. Are the Ravens really not going to sign Justin Tucker?

2012 NCAA Women's College Softball Super Regionals: Experts' picks

espn.go.com — A look at our experts' picks for college softball super regionals.
Four of 7 ESPN college softball experts including @jfinch27 picking Hofstra to beat USF in Super Regional this weekend. http://t.co/PNY4syo2

Montana colleges OK new sexual assault policy

espn.go.com — Associated Press HAVRE, Mont. -- The Montana college system has approved a policy for handling sexual assaults. It's the latest response to a rape controversy that has subjected the University of Montana, its football team and even the city of Missoula to a federal gender equality investigation.
Montana adopts new sexual-assault reporting policy in wake of university rape scandal: http://t.co/z8HmfSu1

Why do Bengals sign troubled players?

espn.go.com — There are so many positives surrounding the Bengals organization these days. They're coming off a surprising playoff season. They are returning two young offensive stars in A.J. Green and Andy Dalton. And they're having one of the best offseasons of any team in the league.

Pouncey says Colon can be great at guard

espn.go.com — The Steelers' Willie Colon isn't taking the move from tackle to guard personally. In his mind, the team sees him as a good tackle who can be a great guard. Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey feels the same way and thinks Colon will thrive at his new spot at left guard.

Kristin Armstrong of U.S. undergoes surgery to clavicle

espn.go.com — Associated Press BOISE, Idaho -- Olympic gold medalist Kristin Armstrong is getting pins in her broken collarbone after crashing out of the Exergy Tour, a mishap that's put a question mark on her hopes of riding in the London Olympics. Armstrong's surgery on Friday morning was to stabilize a mid-shaft clavicle fracture.

Robert Griffin III's historic Roman conquest

espn.go.com — Geoff Burke/US PresswireRobert Griffin III is making history with the use of Roman numerals on his jersey nameplate. Robert Griffin III hasn't played a down yet as a professional, but he's already making NFL history.
Roman Gabriel? RT @TexasMonthly: Guess who's gonna be the first player in NFL to have a Roman numeral on his jersey? http://t.co/YjgjlYjk

Falcao Bio, Stats, News

..guy score two breathtaking goals in Europa final for Atletico Madrid. He's a Colombian international. FALCAO http://t.co/IMgD2LuB

ESPNHS fantasy draft results

espn.go.com — The ESPNHS hoops staff, with an assist from recruiting gurus Dave Telep and Paul Biancardi and highly touted rising senior guards Tyler Ennis of St. Benedict's (Newark, N.J.) and Nate Britt III of Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.), had some fun picking the ultimate high school basketball team.

AFC North Top 5: Quarterbacks

espn.go.com — The AFC North blog has taken a look at the top five division players at each offensive position this week. This is a projection for the 2012 season, so predicted progress and decline has been factored into the rankings. The last one to address is quarterback. 1.

Dealing with the Spurs

espn.go.com — Every time the San Antonio Spurs get this deep into the playoffs it turns into a referendum on NBA fans. You've seen the columns before and you'll surely see them again during the course of the Western Conference finals: The Spurs represent what's right about sports, so you really need to appreciate them.

2012 Regular Season MLB Baseball Batting Statistics and League Leaders

espn.go.com — Who owns the best batting average in the MLB? ESPN.com has the 2012 Regular Season leaders.
Melky Cabrera having an incredible season -- and swinging at the few pitches per plate appearance in the major leagues. http://t.co/4c4mPcp2

Charles Hynes comes out in favor of legalization of sports betting

insider.espn.go.com — When Charles Hynes was a boy he liked to play a game with his friends. They were baseball fans growing up in Brooklyn in the 1940s and 1950s. Brooklyn, in those days, was awash with bookies.
NJ wants sports betting. NY wants sports betting. Analysis of the odd week and where the fight for legalization will go http://t.co/KVgorUIW

Todd Graham moving on from Pitt

espn.go.com — TEMPE, Ariz. -- Todd Graham made the decision to leave Pittsburgh for Arizona State so suddenly in December that he caught his own son Bo unaware, and Bo is a member of his coaching staff. Bo walked out of a recruiting visit in Philadelphia at 9:30 p.m. and his phone rang.
The weasel Todd Graham still refusing Trib interview requests about #Pitt but plays this round of softball with ESPN: http://t.co/Yqdi0Mfa

Crousers are latest and best, but javelin heritage in Oregon goes back decades

espn.go.com — Cathy KeathleyThe USR-setting Crouser siblings (Haley shown) have made huge headlines the past few years, but Oregon state history is full of record-setting throwers that have created an amazing heritage of the event in the state. Gary Stautz is sympathetic to the plight of Gresham (Ore.) High School's future javelin throwers.
Joe Boutin ... RT @chostetler15: My high school track coach is one of the men making javelin special in Oregon: http://t.co/gpLOq6Oe

New York Yankees sign John Maine, formerly of New York Mets, to minor league deal

espn.go.com — Looking to add depth to their pitching options, the Yankees have signed former Mets right-hander John Maine to a minor league contract, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman confirmed. Maine, who hasn't pitched in the major leagues since 2010, is expected to be insurance if he can make the contributions that saw him win as many as 15 games with the Mets five years ago.
RT @ESPNNewYork: New York Yankees sign John Maine, formerly of New York Mets, to minor league deal http://t.co/xgsFUa3c

Gemmell: Marines shaped ASU's Sheffield

espn.go.com — This is not a story about war; it's a story about football. This is not a story about Jake Sheffield, former corporal in the United States Marine Corps. It's a story about Jake Sheffield, defensive tackle for Arizona State University.
RT @ESPN_Pac12blog: Nice story on a former Marine playing for Arizona State. Worthy reminder for #MemorialDay weekend. http://t.co/axO5fiJm

Keenan Lewis predicts Pro Bowl season

espn.go.com — Steelers cornerback Keenan Lewis voiced high expectations for himself after the third practice of the offseason. "Pro Bowl," Lewis told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "Watch out, this is going to be a big year right here." 2011 STATS This would be a bold prediction for someone entering his first season as a starter.

French Open - How Rafael Nadal turned the rivalry around against Novak Djokovic - ESPN

espn.go.com — Commentary What a difference a year makes. Heading into the French Open, it's advantage Rafael Nadal. So how did the Spaniard begin to win his matches against Novak Djokovic? What do you do when you've lost seven finals in a row to the same player?

ESPN BOSTON Video: Watch Sports Videos and Highlights Online

espn.go.com — ESPN BOSTON Video: Watch Sports Videos and Highlights Online
Where were you 25 years ago when Bird stole the ball? http://t.co/MJUf47aM I was laying on the floor of my living room, a few feet from TV

Brodeur: 1994 means nothing now

espn.go.com — There might be plenty of similarities between the 1994 and 2012 Eastern Conference finals, but Martin Brodeur doesn't see them. "I know if you look at it, it looks the same," the Devils goaltender said Thursday, in between Games 5 and 6 against the Rangers.

Boston Celtics Blog - ESPN Boston

espn.go.com — I still cringe when I hear Johnny Most's gravelly voice scream, "Now there's a steal by Bird!" It's been 25 years, but it still hurts. Larry Bird's steal of Isiah Thomas' inbounds pass in 1987 is the ultimate buzz kill for a Detroit sports fan.
My man @Turk0219 perfectly puts in perspective the one game that made me cry http://t.co/fNslHDNa

Give Harrison credit for not backing down

espn.go.com — James Harrison doesn't always criticize NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in a tasteful manner, but you have to give the Steelers linebacker some credit for standing up to him again and again. Other players would have gone silent after receiving more than $100,000 in fines from the NFL and becoming the first player suspended under the league's stricter guidelines for player safety.

2012 Stanley Cup playoffs: Players denying all possible comparisons to thrilling 1994 New Jersey Devils-New York Rangers series

espn.go.com — NEW YORK -- New Jersey Devils coach Pete DeBoer recalls 1994 as a time when he still had hair. Martin Brodeur, who played goal in what was one of the most dramatic playoff series of all time 18 years ago, recalls it as a time when no one knew his name or who he was.

Rangers believe Game 6 in Ottawa will help

espn.go.com — A little more than one month ago, the Rangers found themselves in this same spot, trailing 3-2 in a series and having to hit the road for a do-or-die Game 6. They would beat Ottawa 3-2 to even the series, and went on to vanquish the Senators in Game 7 at Madison Square Garden.

New York Knicks' J.R. Smith arrested in Miami, bonded out

espn.go.com — Associated Press MIAMI BEACH, Fla. -- Miami Beach police say New York Knicks guard J.R. Smith has been arrested on a bench warrant for not having a valid driver's license. Sgt. Bobby Hernandez says 26-year-old Smith was stopped Thursday night on Washington Avenue in South Beach.
"@Atahualp81: @alanhahn Hearing JR got arrested here in Miami. True??" bench warrant: http://t.co/A48Dz97r

2012 Stanley Cup playoffs -- New York Rangers coach John Tortorella faces Game 6 challenge

espn.go.com — Commentary Rangers coach must engineer Game 6 win to preserve his shot at New York greatness By Ian O'Connor | ESPNNewYork.com NEW YORK -- The New York Rangers were playing a cute little game of three-on-three, red shirts on one side, blue shirts on the other, the goalies and their nets stationed on the Garden's blue lines while John Tortorella watched quietly from the boards.

Wake-up: Jim Brown criticizes Richardson

espn.go.com — Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here: Browns Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown described Trent Richardson as an "ordinary" talent on draft day and he isn't backing down from his assessment of the team's first-round running back.

Rumor Central: Starlin Castro

espn.go.com — ESPN Video: ESPN Insider Chris Sprow discusses the Cubs possibly parting ways with Starlin Castro.

University of Texas-Arlington Mavericks to join Sun Belt Conference in 2013

espn.go.com — Associated Press DALLAS -- The University of Texas at Arlington will begin competing in the Sun Belt Conference, effective in July 2013. The conference schools voted Wednesday in Sandestin, Fla., to accept Texas-Arlington as a non-football member.
RT @ESPNDallas: University of Texas-Arlington Mavericks to join Sun Belt Conference in 2013 http://t.co/PapHFUq4

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo needs a better supporting cast

espn.go.com — Commentary Jerry Jones must get his QB help for the Cowboys to be Super Bowl contenders IRVING, Texas -- The sermon had been over for less than five minutes when a member of my church family sidled over and inquired about the Dallas Cowboys. "How do you think the Cowboys are going to do this year?"

MLB Wild Card Standings 2012

espn.go.com — Up to the minute MLB Wild Card standings for the American League and National League.
Angels started horribly, fired a coach, had highest-paid player in his deepest slump. But check the wildcard standings. http://t.co/EkQNW39h

Paul Konerko Game By Game Stats and Performance

espn.go.com — Get complete game-by-game stats for Chicago White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko on ESPN.com.
Paul Konerko already has 20 multi-hit games this season, out of 45 White Sox games. http://t.co/ILeCI85j

Ex-USC Trojans recruit exonerated on rape conviction

espn.go.com — Associated Press LONG BEACH, Calif. -- The rape conviction of once-promising California prep football star Brian Banks has been vacated following his accuser's recantation. Banks collapsed and sobbed Thursday in a Long Beach, Calif., court after the prosecution conceded. Banks had pleaded no contest in the case rather than risk 41 years to life in prison if convicted at trial.
RT @LBSports: Woman's false rape accusation put ex-USC recruit in prison for 5+ years. She recants after he serves term http://t.co/bcutaCaK
Amazing and angering story about a prep star's overturned rape conviction 10 years after the fact http://t.co/he8q6PfW

Clippers report cards: Thompkins & Leslie

espn.go.com — The first run of "Lob City" may not have ended the way some within the Los Angeles Clippers organization would have liked but everyone understands its still a work in progress. With half the roster up for new contracts in the coming weeks and months, there's also a good chance the team will have new look next season.
The Clippers' report cards begin with Trey Thompkins & Travis Leslie. (Yes, they were on the team). http://t.co/jIbhZv5z

Ivan Nova's success with New York Yankees a minor miracle

espn.go.com — Unless you're a New York Yankees fan, you probably haven't thought much about Ivan Nova. You might think he's overrated because he pitches in New York, his 21-8 career record undone by a 4.21 earned run average.
Ivan Nova grew up sharing a single bed w/ four brothers & sisters. Can hate the Yankees, enjoy this, by @jorgearangure http://t.co/DOXQk1yb
Really appreciate when writers put in the reporting. Nice work by @jorgearangure on Ivan Nova: http://t.co/jloAvzih

UConn -- Gay hockey players are welcome to play for Connecticut Huskies

espn.go.com — Associated Press STORRS, Conn. -- Gay and play hockey? You're welcome at the University of Connecticut. That is the message the school's men's hockey team is sending out in two videos for a program called You Can Play.
Hopefully they're welcome to play everywhere. RT @espn Gay hockey players welcome to play at UConn. http://t.co/P0ajtHX1
Another sign that the #NHL, hockey in general most progressive among four major sports. http://t.co/zx8dvtun @YouCanPlayTeam @UConn

Kristin Armstrong may miss London Games after fall in Exergy Tour

espn.go.com — Associated Press BOISE, Idaho -- Tara Whitten led a Canadian sweep of the first three spots in the Exergy Tour prologue Thursday after American gold medalist Kristin Armstrong fell and broke her left collarbone during the two-mile stage. Armstrong, the last of 103 riders to start, fell hard at the turnaround, putting her London Olympic hopes this summer in doubt.

Sources -- Shaquille O'Neal declines to discuss GM opening with Orlando Magic

espn.go.com — ESPN.com news services Shaquille O'Neal, who had expressed interest in becoming the new general manager of the Orlando Magic and had been asked by the team to interview, has declined the invitation, sources close to the former player told ESPNBoston.com's Jackie MacMullan on Thursday.
RT @taramanis: Shaq declines opportunity to interview for Orlando #Magic GM job, sources say: http://t.co/jkdr3OVp Via @NBAonESPN
Comedy loses out. RT @NBAonESPN: Shaq declines opportunity to interview for Orlando Magic GM job, sources say: http://t.co/NjEglFmd

ESPN Basketball Recruiting - Player Rankings - ESPN

espn.go.com — Where do the nation basketball recruits rank? Check out the player rankings on RecruitingNation.com
RT @HelmanESPN: The ESPN 100 is out for 2013. Two Baton Rouge players made the list. http://t.co/mKZMir2S
MSJ's Kam Williams makes his debut at No. 69. Aquille Carr at 78. RT @DaveTelep The new ESPN Top 100 (2013). http://t.co/vjBvMkc6

Hal Steinbrenner denies report New York Yankees may be sold

espn.go.com — ESPNNewYork.com New York Yankees general partner Hal Steinbrenner vehemently denied a report Thursday that his family is considering selling the team. "I just learned of the (New York) Daily News story. It is pure fiction," he said. "The Yankees are not for sale.

WMLS? No way, say U.S. women

espn.go.com — Friday, September 14, 2001 24:18 EST WMLS? No way, say U.S. women FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- Julie Foudy and Sara Whalen, two members of the U.S. women's national team, said in no uncertain terms this week that they will not play for a women's league run by Major League Soccer.
An interesting bit of WUSA-MLS history for those confused at MLSSoccer dot com's comments section: http://t.co/USqhTZRO

Math supports Bobby V.'s "championship" claim

espn.go.com — 'BOSTON--Red Sox manager Bobby Valentine is being mocked in some circles for saying in a postgame interview on NESN that if the Red Sox continue to play the way they have, "we're going to win a championship." Valentine said it in the context of a recent stretch in which the Sox played 20 games in 20 days and went 11-9.

New York Jets special teams coach Mike Westhoff out until start of training camp after leg surgery

espn.go.com — By Rich Cimini | ESPNNewYork.com FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- New York Jets special teams coach Mike Westhoff, a bone cancer survivor, underwent surgery last Friday to repair a titanium rod in his left leg and will miss the remainder of the offseason. He's expected to be back for the start of training camp.
RT @RichCimini: #Jets STC Mike Westhoff, one tough dude, said he needed surgery because his metal femur broke in half. http://t.co/cMbZ1Mto

UEFA to honor David Beckham

espn.go.com — Associated Press LONDON -- David Beckham's England career will be honored at the team's final European Championship warm-up match, with the former captain receiving an award from the continent's governing body for players who have at least 100 international appearances.
UEFA to honor David Beckham at Wembley Stadium on June 2. http://t.co/014F8za4

Paul, Griffin named to All-NBA teams

espn.go.com — Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul was selected to the 2011-12 All-NBA First Team, the NBA announced Thursday. Paul becomes the first Clippers player since the team moved to Los Angeles in 1984 to be recognized with a first team selection and only the second in franchise history, joining Bob McAdoo in 1974-75 when the team was the Buffalo Braves.
Chris Paul is the first player in Clippers franchise history to make the All-NBA First Team, since Bob McAdoo in 1975. http://t.co/jPaEIjsu

Torts predicts 'best game' for Lundqvist

espn.go.com — The closest thing to a guarantee from the Rangers heading into a do-or-die Game 6 against the Devils on Friday? Coach John Tortorella's prediction about his star goaltender Henrik Lundqvist's impending performance: "He'll play his best game tomorrow night," Tortorella proclaimed.
#NYRNJD Tortorella predicts "best game" from Lundqvist in Game 6 -- ESPN NY -- http://t.co/KMIlisDf

Watch: Experts on LSU's 2012 season

ESPN Basketball Recruiting - Player Rankings - ESPN

espn.go.com — Where do the nation basketball recruits rank? Check out the player rankings on RecruitingNation.com

Browns give Brandon Weeden dream back

espn.go.com — David Dermer/Diamond Images/Getty ImagesBrandon Weeden has a few lines on his face, but his maturity could evoke success in Cleveland. LOS ANGELES -- The crow's feet are a dead giveaway. They creep up when a smile flashes on Brandon Weeden's face, and looking around at all these kids again, the new Cleveland Browns quarterback can't help but grin.

Featured Video - espnW

espn.go.com — Are you a sports fan thinking about popping the question? Sarah Spain, Jemele Hill and Cassidy Hubbarth break down whether proposals at sporting events are a good idea.

Rich Thompson's pact

espn.go.com — The question everyone always wants to ask Rich Thompson is how ever did he manage to do this? And the simplest way he can explain it is for the past 13 years he made a private pact with baseball: He was not going to let go of the game until it let go of him first.
My always excellent colleague Johnette Howard on a modern-day Moonlight Graham. http://t.co/NMmACRai

Sources: Shaq, Magic won't talk

espn.go.com — Shaquille O'Neal, who had expressed interest in becoming the new general manager of the Orlando Magic and had been asked by the team to interview, has declined the invitation, sources close to the former player told ESPNBoston.com's Jackie MacMullan on Thursday.
Shaq turns down opportunity to interview for Magic's GM job, sources tell http://t.co/LJmPOP27's Jackie MacMullan http://t.co/wySZvdu2

Jabari Parker, No. 1 in the ESPN 100, is a rare recruit

espn.go.com — Basketball always ranked as the backup plan for Jabari Parker. Education and his faith came first. They still do. "Basketball is going to end," Parker said. Strange talk from a kid who turned 17 in March and graced the cover of Sports Illustrated last week, labeled as the best high school player since LeBron James, who took his game straight from the Ohio prep courts to NBA stardom in 2003.

Sources -- Shaquille O'Neal declines to discuss GM opening with Orlando Magic

espn.go.com — ESPN.com news services Shaquille O'Neal, who had expressed interest in becoming the new general manager of the Orlando Magic and had been asked by the team to interview, has declined the invitation, sources close to the former player told ESPNBoston.com's Jackie MacMullan on Thursday.
Well, that was quick. RT @espn Sources: Shaq won't interview for Magic GM job. http://t.co/8HxpspCl

Missouri is ready to recruit the southeast

espn.go.com — COLUMBIA, Mo. -- Gary Pinkel isn't naive. Missouri's coach understands a new recruiting game has to be played now that the Tigers are moving to the SEC. The states of Missouri and Texas will continue to be recruiting priorities, but stretching out to southeastern states will now become very important.

Pat hand - insider - ESPN

espn.go.com — After taking back control of his life, Tom Brady is playing like a champ -- again. By Seth Wickersham | ESPN The Magazine He has two pockets. The one everybody sees on Sundays keeps his jersey clean and pressed. The other forms on Friday nights and is seen only by a select few, when he sets up shop barside.
Laughed during NFLN show on '03 Pats when I saw Brady's suspiciously lighted hair--a topic when I wrote him that year http://t.co/q98seTon

Thirty years after Bear Bryant's final season, the man who knew him best -- Billy Varner -- struggles to remember the legendary Alabama coach

espn.go.com — TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- Something important is being lost. Each rising sun takes a little more from the couple who live in the small brick home southwest of downtown. Billy Varner has been married to Susie for 57 years, and as her life was once spent waiting on him to get home from a job that didn't know hours or days off, now it's spent managing his dementia.
Wright Thompson on his incredible story on Bear Bryant, Billy Varner on the Smashmouth Radio Network on 973 The Zone. http://t.co/9g9T5jtA
Show 3 more tweets from Perryn Keys, Andrew Gribble, Jeff MacGregor

A look back: Messier's Guarantee

espn.go.com — AP Photo/Mark Lennihan Mark Messier, joined by other members of the team, holds the Stanley Cup during the team's victory parade in New York Friday
#NYRNJD A look back at Mark Messier's iconic guarantee (link to original story by @jaygeemsg ) http://t.co/Apig7Ab3

Watch Mississippi State vs. Kentucky (Game #10) Live Online at WatchESPN

espn.go.com — Watch Mississippi State vs. Kentucky in SEC Baseball Tournament live online at ESPN3 on WatchESPN. Check out the full replay if you've missed the livestream.
RT @ESPN3: WATCH LIVE: #7 Mississippi State vs. #4 Kentucky (Game #10): SEC Baseball Tournament http://t.co/zrtxtGTp

Snoop Dogg to throw out first pitch

espn.go.com — Actor and rapper Snoop Dogg will throw out the first pitch before the Chicago White Sox play the Minnesota Twins at 7:10 p.m. Thursday at U.S. Cellular Field. Snoop Dogg will perform at The Venue at Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Ind., later Thursday night.
RT @TimAtTVDotCom: I'm guessing it's gonna be a little high. RT @ESPN_MLB: Snoop Dogg to throw out first pitch http://t.co/hv8uzDxB

Front & Center: Bob Ley

frontrow.espn.go.com — posted by Bill Hofheimer on May 24, 2012 7:00 AM Click HERE to listen or visit iTunes to download the podcast and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the Front & Center podcast. Also, make sure to check out the all new ESPN Radio app, now available for the iPad for the first time.
.@BobLeyESPN traveled to Brazil for an OTL feature on 2014 World Cup. Airs Sun. Some cool images of the trip here: http://t.co/b97PGhDh

Rebirth of L.A.-San Jose rivalry?

espn.go.com — Getty ImagesIt was once one of the fiercest showdowns in MLS, but there are signs that the Galaxy-Quakes rivalry is on the rise once again. Look around MLS these days, and much of the fuel that drives the league is centered on rivalries, from the New York Red Bulls/D.C.

Concussions still affect now-singer Ben Utecht's life

espn.go.com — Associated Press CINCINNATI -- Ben Utecht is writing songs for his next album at his home in Minnesota, another step in his highly unusual transition from professional athlete to musical artist. It's an exciting time, with one lingering concern from his NFL career.
Former U of Minn and Colts tight end Ben Utecht talks about memory loss from concussions. Dude is 30. http://t.co/JwBMGYwy

Source -- New York Knicks would be Lamar Odom's top choice in free agency

espn.go.com — By Ian Begley | Special to ESPNNewYork.com Who will Lamar Odom play for next season? That's currently out of his control. He's under contract with the Dallas Mavericks, who likely will trade him or waive him.
Lamar Odom wants Knicks? Only if he promises to move back into Queensbridge Houses w Kardashian in tow. Reality Cubed: http://t.co/yWJd41Hs

MSU's Hollis named top athletic director

espn.go.com — Michigan State's Mark Hollis was named 2012 athletic director of the year at the Sports Business Awards, handed out Wednesday night in New York. The awards are presented by Street & Smith's SportsBusiness Journal and SportsBusiness Daily. Hollis, who has served in the role since January 2008, was selected from five nominees, which also included Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon.

2012 Stanley Cup playoffs -- The Devils took advantage of Henrik Lundqvist early to top the Rangers

espn.go.com — Commentary N.J. was able to give the Blueshirts a dose of their own medicine in Game 5's win The sight of the New Jersey Devils swaggering into Madison Square Garden Wednesday and shoving the New York Rangers to the brink of missing the Stanley Cup finals rather than allowing them to claw one win away from moving on wasn't as shocking as the way it happened.

'Baby Gio' emerges as hero in Game 5

espn.go.com — AP Photo/Julio CortezStephen Gionta scored his third goal of the playoffs. NEW YORK -- Stephen Gionta spent most of the season in the AHL -- just as he has throughout his career. Now, the 28-year-old is playing a prominent role on a New Jersey Devils squad that finds itself just one win away from the Stanley Cup finals.

2012 Stanley Cup playoffs -- New York Rangers luck runs out in loss to New Jersey Devils

espn.go.com — Commentary Game 5 loss could be sign that magic is running out for gutsy Rangers By Katie Strang | ESPNNewYork.com NEW YORK -- It would be wrong to question the New York Rangers' heart, because of what they have accomplished throughout this season on sometimes that alone.
#NYRNJD A miraculous comeback and nothing to show for it. What now for the Rangers? -- ESPN NY -- http://t.co/EEaLm84F

Devils write their own ending

espn.go.com — NEW YORK -- In the moment after New Jersey netminder Martin Brodeur bobbled a routine dump-in and the puck eventually ended up behind him in the Devils' net, tying Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals at 3-all, was there anyone in the world who didn't think this would end with a New York Rangers victory?

We will chat live from EverBank Field

espn.go.com — The Jaguars' schedule and our regularly scheduled chat sync up rather well today. We head inside for the second half of the team's organized team activities, which are conducted in private. Then we head out for post-practice interviews about 50 minutes later. That gives me noon ET to 12:45 p.m.

How do you want your links?

espn.go.com — Working off of last Saturday's request from the immortal Justin from B-more, we have been varying the order of the daily breakfast links this week. We've had four days, and four different orders, with each of our division's teams taking a turn atop the list. We have become an unassailable paragon of fairness.
Ideally, w/blueberry pancakes, black coffee, maybe cranberry juice?RT @espn_nfceast: How do you want your links? http://t.co/QqsElmzq

Bucs paid extra for undrafted rookies

espn.go.com — If I had to pick one undrafted rookie to make an NFC South roster right now, it would be Tampa Bay offensive lineman Desmond Wynn. That's because the Bucs obviously thought very highly of Wynn when they signed him.
Bradley Sowell got a $10,000 signing bonus from the Bucs, well above the league average. http://t.co/Pspe3NUN

Pressure is now on Flacco, Ravens offense

espn.go.com — AP Photo/Matt SlocumWith an aging and injured defense, more responsibility will fall on Joe Flacco's shoulders. Defense has been the big brother on the Baltimore Ravens team for more than the past decade. It's been the one responsible for hard-fought wins, playoff victories and even a Super Bowl title.

Devils write their own ending

espn.go.com — NEW YORK -- In the moment after New Jersey netminder Martin Brodeur bobbled a routine dump-in and the puck eventually ended up behind him in the Devils net, tying Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals 3-3, was there anyone in the world who didn't think this would end with a New York Rangers victory?

Wake-up: Mendenhall says he'll return in '12

espn.go.com — Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here: Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall vowed to play this season and didn't rule out being ready for the Sept. 9 season opener in Denver. "There's always the possibility," Mendenhall told Pittsburgh reporters, via the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

AFC North: Future Power Rankings

espn.go.com — A respected committee of ESPN experts -- including Trent Dilfer, Mel Kiper, Gary Horton and Matt Williamson -- got together to look into the crystal ball and produce the NFL Future Power Rankings . The projection is for the 2015 season and takes into account five factors: roster (32.5 percent), quarterback (17.5 percent), draft (15 percent), front office (15 percent) and coaching (20 percent).

Tokyo thrilled to be among 2020 Olympic bid field

sports.espn.go.com — Associated Press TOKYO -- Tokyo organizers are delighted that the Japanese capital made the cut to be one of three contenders to host the 2020 Summer Olympics. The International Olympic Committee on Wednesday decided the race for the 2020 Olympics will come down to a contest between Tokyo, Madrid and Istanbul.
And then there were three. Tokyo, Istanbul, and Madrid emerge as finalists to host 2020 #Olympics http://t.co/akGKKTM6

Rangers not concerned with offense

espn.go.com — SEATTLE -- It seems just about every Ranger to take an at-bat lately has been in a funk, and it seems the only reasonable explanation in the clubhouse is, well, "That's the way baseball goes." "We haven't been the best offense for sure," shortstop Elvis Andrus said.

Wayne Gretzky impressed by Kings' run

espn.go.com — Wayne Gretzky kept a low profile for obvious reasons during the Western Conference finals, but you can expect to see him at Staples Center for the Stanley Cup finals. "For sure, I'll be at Game 3," The Great One told ESPN.com Wednesday.

Sources -- Shaquille O'Neal to discuss GM opening with Orlando Magic

espn.go.com — ESPN.com news services A blast from the Orlando Magic's past has emerged in the team's search for a new general manager -- Shaquille O'Neal. O'Neal will meet with the Magic next week to discuss the GM opening, multiple sources told ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard.

Vinnie Pestano Game By Game Stats and Performance

espn.go.com — Get complete game-by-game stats for Cleveland Indians relief pitcher Vinnie Pestano on ESPN.com.
Vinnie Pestano has not had an outing of more than four outs, and yet he has at least one strikeout in every outing. http://t.co/r5bhUvBZ

Aroldis Chapman Stats, News, Pictures, Bio, Videos - Cincinnati Reds - ESPN

espn.go.com — Get the latest news, stats, videos, and more about Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman on ESPN.com.
Left-handed hitters this year against Aroldis Chapman: 31 at-bats, 3 hits, 1 walk, no extra-base hits, 20 strikeouts. http://t.co/nvvqIsps

Cole Hamels Stats, News, Pictures, Bio, Videos

espn.go.com — Get the latest news, stats, videos, and more about Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels on ESPN.com.
Cole Hamels is building the kind of free agent season that CC Sabathia did in 2008. http://t.co/ar7xiOco Almost pristine, at this point.

Nonconference scheduling will keep UNLV Rebels on national radar -- college basketball

espn.go.com — If you live outside of the Big Six conferences, scheduling can be an often-frustrating game. But not at UNLV. The Runnin' Rebels, much like Xavier, Temple, Memphis, Gonzaga and Butler, can get quality nonconference matchups. Last season, UNLV had games with North Carolina, Wisconsin and Illinois, along with a prime MWC-MVC Challenge game at Wichita State.

Source -- New York Knicks would be Lamar Odom's top choice in free agency

espn.go.com — By Ian Begley | Special to ESPNNewYork.com Who will Lamar Odom play for next season? That's currently out of his control. He's under contract with the Dallas Mavericks, who will likely trade him or waive him.
Ahem. @Delblogo & I called this. RT @ESPNNewYork: Source -- Knicks would be Lamar Odom's top choice in free agency http://t.co/FPceFHsH

Rapid Reaction: Devils 5, Rangers 3

espn.go.com — What it means: The Rangers erased a three-goal deficit with a staggering comeback that almost made up for their disastrous start, but Ryan Carter's game winner with 4:24 remaining sapped all the life out of Madison Square Garden as the Devils pulled off a 5-3 stunner.

Source -- New York Knicks would be Lamar Odom's top choice in free agency

espn.go.com — By Ian Begley | Special to ESPNNewYork.com Who will Lamar Odom play for next season? That's currently out of his control. He's under contract with the Dallas Mavericks, who will likely trade him or waive him.
If waived, Lamar Odom would prefer to play for the Knicks. http://t.co/wqn76BOo

ESPNLA Hot Button: Will Chris Paul and Blake Griffin be Clippers for life?

espn.go.com — ESPN Dallas Hot Button topic: Who is the best in the AL West?
Will Chris Paul and Blake Griffin be Clippers for life? http://t.co/lN7Wb9JS

Future NFL Power Rankings

espn.go.com — ESPN Video: Michele Steele, Chris Sprow, Gary Horton, and Mel Kiper offer up their analysis on ESPN Insider's NFL Future Power Rankings.