Articles by Michael McCann
Jameis Winston's best legal move? It might be to drop out of Florida State
As new reports by The New York Times and Fox Sports portray Florida State as impeding investigations into the alleged misconduct conduct of Jameis Winston and other football players, the school has reportedly informed Winston that he will face a disciplinary hearing into allegations that he raped a fellow Florida State student in December 2012. To date, Winston has avoided any finding of fault.
USWNT's Appeal Process and What Comes Next After Legal Setback
U.S. Soccer winning summary judgment on pay-related claims brought by members of the U.S. women’s national soccer team has sparked questions about whether the players’ case is effectively over. Judge Gary Klausner’s ruling rejects the players’ claims that call for more than $66 million in damages. It leaves in place secondary concerns, including alleged discrimination by U.S. Soccer with respect to how players travel and their hotel accommodations.
Michael Avenatti guilty: How Nike case conviction impacts NCAA, NBA
Celebrity attorney Michael Avenatti was convicted by a Manhattan federal jury on Friday of attempting to extort up to $25 million from Nike. Avenatti, 48, was also convicted of honest services wire fraud. The fraud charge stems from Avenatti devising a scheme to deprive his client of the intangible right to Avenatti’s honest services. Avenatti faces a maximum sentence of 42 years in prison, though as a first-time offender he’ll receive a far shorter sentence.
Dustin Pedroia and the Pricey Guarantees of MLB Contracts
Boston Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia is one of the most impactful players in his team’s history. He’s a former American League MVP, World Series champion, All-Star and Gold Glove winner. Standing 5’9’’ and weighing 175 pounds, Pedroia is often celebrated for his hustle and grit. He’s a clubhouse leader, too, and is actively involved in a number of charities, including the Jimmy Fund and Pedroia’s Platoon. There’s a lot to like.
WNBA: What does new CBA mean for league, players?
Facing the unappealing prospect of playing the 2020 season without a new collective bargaining agreement in place, the WNBA and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association agreed in principle on Tuesday to a new CBA that, if ratified by WNBA players and the WNBA’s Board of Governors, will run through 2027. The new CBA is poised to provide major improvements in pay and benefits to WNBA players while assuring league officials that their players will prioritize the WNBA over foreign leagues.
Save the Spinners: Residents of Lowell attempt to stave off MLB's plan
Michael McCann/Sports Illustrated LOWELL, Mass. — Major League Baseball’s controversial plan to reorganize Minor League Baseball faces headwinds as local communities who stand to lose their teams—and accompanying jobs, business and investment—unify efforts to persuade or, if necessary, try to stop MLB. One such community is Lowell, Massachusetts, a city of about 112,000 people and home of the Lowell Spinners. The Spinners are the Class A Short Season affiliate of the Boston Red Sox.
How Colin Kaepernick's Workout Waiver Was Different From the NFL's
Sports Illustrated has acquired a copy of Kaepernick’s waiver from Saturday's workout, which differs starkly from that of the NFL. The MMQB breaks down the vantage points from both sides. How Colin Kaepernick's Workout Waiver Was Different From the NFL's Sports Illustrated has obtained a copy of the waiver that representatives for Colin Kaepernick requested that the NFL use for the planned workout on Saturday at the Atlanta Falcons’ training facility.
Potential Legal Fallout From Myles Garrett’s Punch on Mason Rudolph
In a gruesome and hazardous attack on a defenseless player, Browns defensive end Myles Garrett struck Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph in the skull with Rudolph’s helmet during Thursday’s night’s game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. The incident occurred in the closing seconds of the game, which the Browns won 21-7.
NBA free agency: How the CBA stops salary cap circumvention
NBA Investigating Whether Tampering Took Place Before Free Agency FlurryTampering has become a major problem for the NBA. Teams are forbidden from attempting to induce or persuade players who are under contract to other teams to join them. Under the league’s constitution, teams that are caught tampering face a potential range of punishments—including fines, forfeiture of draft picks and voidance of free agent signings.
How private golf clubs are still able to discriminate against women
It might strike you as surprising that, in 2019, there are still golf clubs in America that only allow men to become members. Several exclusive clubs, including Burning Tree Club in Bethesda, Md. and Butler National Golf Club in Oak Brook, Ill., continue to deny memberships to women on the basis of their sex. They do so legally, too.
How private golf clubs are still able to discriminate against women
It might strike you as surprising that, in 2019, there are still golf clubs in America that only allow men to become members. Several exclusive clubs, including Burning Tree Club in Bethesda, Md. and Butler National Golf Club in Oak Brook, Ill., continue to deny memberships to women on the basis of their sex. They do so legally, too.
Kevin Durant Achilles injury: The Warriors, health care and what comes next
Last Monday, Warriors forward Kevin Durant ruptured the Achilles tendon in his right leg. The devastating injury occurred with 9:50 remaining in the second quarter of Game 5 of the NBA finals. Durant tried to dribble past Raptors forward Serge Ibaka but, after doing so, grabbed his leg in pain and fell to the floor. Two days later, Durant underwent surgery to repair the tendon. The 30-year-old former league MVP is expected to miss the entire 2019-20 season.
How transforming into a DSO could impact FSU's athletics
The days of big-time college sports being "amateur" are long gone. The NCAA generates more than $1 billion a year in revenue. Athletic conferences and member schools negotiate multi-year, billion-dollar TV deals as well as lucrative merchandise, apparel and live streaming contracts. Some college coaches earn millions of dollars a year and take home more in pay than their universities' highest-ranking officers.
Yoenis Cespedes injury: Can Mets, Brodie Van Wagenen void contract?
Can the New York Mets void outfielder Yoenis Cespedes’s contract? Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen may soon need to answer this question. On Monday, Van Wagenen revealed that Cespedes suffered multiple fractures in his right ankle after a “violent fall” on Cespedes’s ranch in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The incident, at least as told by Cespedes to Van Wagenen, occurred last Saturday when the 33-year-old outfielder accidentally stepped into a hole and badly twisted his ankle.
Kristaps Porzingis rape accusation: What legal action could he face?
Dallas Mavericks forward Kristaps Porzingis is accused of raping and beating a woman while he was a member of the New York Knicks last year. Through his representatives, Porzingis claims the charge is categorically untrue and part of a fraudulent attempt to extort him of tens of thousands of dollars. This developing situation could lead to a multi-faceted legal fallout for the 23-year-old Latvian star.
Why the $10M Settlement Makes Sense for Kaepernick & NFL | RealClearMarkets
Why the $10M Settlement Makes Sense for Kaepernick & NFL The dollar figure in the WSJ's report on the settlement is far lower than previous rumors, but all sides should still see it as a win. Read Full Article »
Colin Kaepernick: Why ex-49ers QB's settlement with NFL made sense
Thirty million dollars. $60 million. $80 million. More than $100 million. When the NFL and attorneys for Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid announced a grievance settlement last month, there was no shortage of rumors as to how much the NFL had agreed to pay. Many of the rumors pegged the dollar figure in the dozens of millions. Some insinuated the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell had cut a massive deal out of fear.
NBA draft's one-and-done rule could be going away
It’s been 14 years since Russ Granik, the NBA deputy commissioner at the time, announced that the Detroit Pistons had selected Amir Johnson of Westchester High School with the 56th pick in the 2005 NBA Draft. Johnson, who is now in his 14th NBA season, became the last “prep-to-pro” player selected in an NBA draft. He had spent no time attending college nor did he play professionally in the minors or abroad. Instead, Johnson went directly from high school to the NBA.
Expected Legal Outcomes in Robert Kraft Prostitution Case, With Details of Video Evidence Now Public
Robert Kraft was formally charged with solicitation of prostitution on Monday, and sordid details from the video evidence were made public. Here's what will happen next, now that either he or his lawyer will have to appear in court. In a press conference on Monday, Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg revealed new information about the solicitation of prostitution charges filed against New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.
Could Zion, Duke Sue Nike for Shoe-Related Injury?
Duke freshman star Zion Williamson suffered a right knee injury in Wednesday's game between the No. 1 Blue Devils and No. 8 North Carolina. The injury occurred 36 seconds into the game as Williamson—the presumptive number one pick in the upcoming 2019 NBA Draft—dribbled the basketball as Tar Heels forward Luke Maye defended him. The 18-year-old forward then appeared to lose his footing and fell to the floor. In visible pain, he then grabbed his injured knee.
90 in 90: Napoli 0 Torino 0
By Michael McCann Napoli were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Torino, missing out on an 8th straight home win in all competitions. Napoli dominated this game from start to finish, having 9 shots on target to just 1 for Torino, but couldn’t score. Torino defended bravely to secure a 10th clean sheet in Serie A, and are now just 3pts behind sixth-placed Atalanta in the chase for European football.
Breaking Down the Possible Effects of the NHL's Stanley Cup Beer Mug Lawsuit
The NHL filed a complaint back in July 2018 that the Stanley Stein too closely resembles the Stanley Cup, but the merits of the case won’t be determined until later in 2019 or beyond. The Stanley Cup is perhaps the most iconic trophy in all of sports. It’s been called hockey’s “Holy Grail” and has a rich history dating back to Lord Stanley of Preston.
NFL owners who donated to Trump's inaugural committee may face charges
NFL owners who donated to President Donald Trump’s 2017 inaugural committee are potentially linked to a federal investigation into suspicions of bribery and misappropriated funds. The Wall Street Journalreported on Thursday that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York is investigating whether donors to Trump’s inaugural committee believed they were buying favors from, and influence within, the incoming administration.
Oakland Sues NFL, Claims it Violated Own Rules in Approving Raiders' Move to Vegas
The year 2018 hasn’t been very kind to the Oakland Raiders. With a 3-10 record, the franchise is mired in last place in the AFC West. Jon Gruden, in the first season of a 10-year, $100 million coaching contract, has seen the team regress while under his watch. The team’s best player, linebacker Khalil Mack, was shockingly traded for mere draft picks. General manager Reggie McKenzie was fired abruptly.
How State Taxes Could Impact MLB Free Agency
How State Taxes Could Impact MLB Free Agency Contract value can fluctuate substantially depending on the state. How might that affect the negotiations for Harper and Machado? Read Full Article »
90 in 90: Champions League MD6
By Michael McCann Mohamed Salah’s 9th goal in nine Champions League matches at Anfield took Liverpool through to the knockout stages at Napoli’s expense. PSG demolished Red Star 4-1 to progress as Group C winners. Lucas Moura’s equaliser at the Camp Nou got Spurs through instead of Inter, who only drew 1-1 at home to PSV. A Raphaël Guerreiro brace ensured Dortmund topped Group A with a 2-0 win at Monaco – Brugge and Atleti finished goalless.
90 in 90: Espanyol 0-4 Barcelona
By Michael McCann An inspired Lionel Messi scored two free-kicks as Barcelona won 4-0 at Catalan rivals Espanyol to go three points clear in La Liga. Barcelona led when Messi won and scored a free-kick, before the Argentine created space to assist Ousmane Dembele for 2-0. Luis Suarez reached double figures this season when scoring from an acute angle just before half-time, then Messi scored another stunning free-kick after the break.
If Markelle Fultz Takes Action, 76ers Could Be Liable For Latest Shoulder Injury
After multiple medical examinations, Philadelphia 76ers guard Markelle Fultz has been diagnosed with Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). According to the Cleveland Clinic, TOC refers to “a group of disorders that occur when there is compression, injury or irritation of the nerves and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the lower neck and upper chest area.” Fultz, who hasn’t played in a game since the 76ers defeated the Phoenix Suns on Nov. 19, will be out indefinitely.
90 in 90: UCL matchday 5 - part 1 round-up
By Michael McCann A 91st minute winner from Maroune Fellaini saw Manchester United reach the knockout stages, defeating Young Boys 1-0. Juventus saw off Valencia 1-0, whilst in Group E braces from Arjen Robben and Robert Lewandowski helped Bayern beat Benfica 5-1. Two Dusan Tadic goals helped Ajax progress, 2-0 victors against AEK Athens. Group F saw Man City comeback twice to draw 2-2 at Lyon, whilst Shakhtar scored late to win 3-2 at ten-man Hoffenheim.
Unlikely the End of NHL Concussion Litigation, the Wins and Losses of the Tentative Settlement
It was nearly two years ago when the U.S. Supreme Court denied petitions to review the NFL concussion settlement. The move all but ensured that the NFL’s 65-year, billion-dollar settlement would go into effect and approximately 20,000 retired players and families would become eligible for payment. On Monday, the NHL joined the NFL as a pro sports league attempting to resolve its concussion litigation.
The Dodgers' Long History of Spotty Tactics Involving Cuban Prospects Is Under Federal Scrutiny
This story appears in the Nov. 5, 2018, issue of Sports Illustrated. For more great storytelling and in-depth analysis, subscribe to the magazine—and get up to 94% off the cover price. Click here for more. As the World Series began, Farhan Zaidi, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ general manager, was, inevitably, asked about the bat-kissing, tongue-wagging, crotch-chopping extravagantly talented rightfielder Yasiel Puig, a player who doesn’t divide public opinion, so much as he cleaves it.
90 in 90: Barcelona 5 Real Madrid 1
By Michael McCann A Luis Suarez hat-trick helped Barcelona thump Real Madrid 5-1 in El Clasico, leaving Los Blancos boss Julen Lopetegui set for the sack. Barcelona led 2-0 at half-time thanks to Coutinho’s first El Clasico goal, and Suarez winning, then scoring, a penalty given by VAR. Marcelo got Madrid back in it, but Suarez added two more, before Arturo Vidal scored his first Barcelona goal. Barcelona sit top of La Liga 7pts clear of Madrid, who are 9th.
Examining the Legal Consequences for the Fan Who Threw Beer at Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill
With three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter of Sunday night’s game between the New England Patriots and the Kansas City Chiefs at Gillette Stadium, Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill caught a pass from quarterback Patrick Mahomes at the 37-yard line. He then sprinted into the end zone of Gillette Stadium for a 75-yard touchdown. It was Hill’s third touchdown of the night and tied the score at 40.
90 in 90: Valencia 1 Barcelona 1
A 1-1 draw at the Mestalla meant Barcelona lost top spot in La Liga to Sevilla. Barca are winless in four league games, their worst run since April 2016. Valencia led in the second minute, Ezequiel Garay turning in from a yard out after a corner was not cleared. Midway through the first-half Barcelona equalised, Lionel Messi combining with Luis Suarez for his 11th goal this season, and 22nd ever against Los Che.
Breaking Down a Potential Lawsuit After Ryder Cup Fan Loses Vision From Errant Shot
A gruesome injury at the 42nd Ryder Cup held at the Albatros Course of Le Golf National in Guyancourt, France, last Friday raises new questions about spectator safety and the legal consequences of accidents involving errant golf balls. Corine Remande, 49, was watching the tournament with her husband when a tee shot mishit by U.S. golfer Brooks Koepka on the par-4 No. 6 hit her in the right eye. Remande was rushed to a local hospital and treated for a fractured eye-socket and a badly damaged eye.
Could the NBA Force J.R. Smith to Cover Up His Supreme Tattoo?
The NBA has notified Cleveland Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith that he could face a fine for each game he fails to cover-up a new tattoo on his right leg. In August, Smith debuted a new tattoo on the back of his right leg displaying the company logo of Supreme, an American clothing brand. Smith has taken to Instagram to complain about the NBA’s warning. However, as explained below, the NBA not only has the right to fine Smith but may have obligations in sponsorship contracts to do so.
JR Smith's Supreme tattoo could run afoul of NBA rules
The NBA has notified Cleveland Cavaliers guard J.R. Smith that he could face a fine for each game he fails to cover-up a new tattoo on his right leg. In August, Smith debuted a new tattoo on the back of his right leg displaying the company logo of Supreme, an American clothing brand. Smith has taken to Instagram to complain about the NBA’s warning. However, as explained below, the NBA not only has the right to fine Smith but may have obligations in sponsorship contracts to do so.
How the Panthers Signing Eric Reid Impacts His and Colin Kaepernick's Grievance Claims Against NFL
Nearly five months after he joined Colin Kaepernick in filing a collusion grievance against the NFL, Eric Reid has joined the roster of an NFL team. The Carolina Panthers, under new owner David Tepper, signed the 26-year-old former San Francisco 49ers starting safety to a one-year contract on Thursday. The Panthers sought Reid after the team placed starting safety Da'Norris Searcy, who had suffered two concussions over a five-week stretch, on injured reserve.
How Would Colin Kaepernick Signing With an NFL Team Affect His Collusion Grievance?
Previewing all of Sunday's games in one spot
How NFL Could Fight Kaepernick's Collusion Claim
How NFL Could Fight Kaepernick's Collusion Claim In the latest edition of the Weekend Read newsletter, our legal expert weighs in on how the NFL will try to stop Colin Kaepernick in court.Read Full Article »
How a Milwaukee Police Officer's Firing Affects Sterling Brown's Lawsuit
One of the Milwaukee police officers who was present during the controversial arrest of Bucks guard Sterling Brown outside of a Walgreens in January has been fired on account of what Milwaukee police chief Alfonso Morales describes as “racist”, “derogatory” and “mocking” social media postings. Those postings were made by officer Erik Andrade, who ridiculed Brown in overtly racist and personalized ways.
What arbitrator ruling in favor of Kaepernick means for NFL
In a landmark ruling that substantially alters the complexion of the collusion grievance brought by Colin Kaepernick, arbitrator Stephen Burbank has denied the NFL's request for summary judgment. Burbank's ruling means that, absent a negotiated settlement between Kaepernick and the NFL, Kaepernick's grievance will proceed to a trial-like hearing before Burbank later this year. Burbank's ruling also indicates that all 32 teams remain parties in the grievance.
The uncomfortable reality Auntie BBC has to face
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is as close to being a secular religious institution as you will find. This oxymoron is deliberate. The corporation has come a long way since Arthur Burrows crackled over the airwaves in 1922. It is a £5 billion a year operation; the largest single investor in TV news production; it is watched and listened to by 96 percent of the UK population and, according to respected sources, the BBC World Service makes the UK a world leader in soft power.
John Elway’s Comments Could Prove Problematic for the NFL in Colin Kaepernick’s Collusion Case
During a press conference on Thursday, Denver Broncos general manager John Elway was asked if his team—which is exploring the possibility of signing a veteran free-agent quarterback—regards free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick as a “viable option.” Keep in mind, the Broncos’ quarterback situation is in flux. Paxton Lynch, the team’s first-round pick in 2016, was recently demoted to the No. 3 on the depth chart behind Case Keenum and rookie Chad Kelly.
Elway's Kaepernick comments could be problematic for NFL
During a press conference on Thursday, Denver Broncos general manager John Elway was asked if his team-which is exploring the possibility of signing a veteran free-agent quarterback-regards free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick as a "viable option." Keep in mind, the Broncos' quarterback situation is in flux. Paxton Lynch, the team's first-round pick in 2016, was recently demoted to the No. 3 on the depth chart behind Case Keenum and rookie Chad Kelly.
Madden 19 snub could help Colin Kaepernick's case vs. NFL
Could the deletion of Colin Kaepernick’s name from a song that appears in Madden 19 help Kaepernick prove that he was a victim of NFL collusion? Madden 19, the latest edition of EA’s best-selling John Madden Football video game franchise, will be available to consumers on August 10. EA says that it will update the game on August 6 to correct an error first noticed by author Jean Clervil while seeing an advanced copy of the game.
What the NBA and Its Players Stand to Gain From Partnership With Vegas-Based MGM
Since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in May that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA)—a federal law that prohibited states from authorizing sports betting but that also exempted Nevada, Delaware, Oregon and Montana because those states had adopted sports betting practices by the time of PASPA’s enactment in 1992—was unconstitutional, any and all of the 50 states have been able to legalize sports betting.
DeMarcus Cousins and Competitive Balance: Should the NBA Act?
With the Golden State Warriors signing DeMarcus Cousins to a one-year, $5.3 million contract, some fear that the conclusion of the ‘18–‘19 NBA season has already been scripted: the Warriors, with All-Star players at all five starting positions and with a deep bench, are poised to easily repeat as NBA champs. That’s not to say they’ll win every game. The Houston Rockets, Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers and Philadelphia 76ers will all put up a fight.
Where Will John Tavares Go and How Much Money Will He Take Home?
When New York Islanders captain John Tavares becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1, the 27-year-old center will become the most coveted player on the market. Tavares, the number one pick in the 2009 NHL draft, scored 38 goals in the ‘17–‘18 season and has been named to five NHL All-Star teams over his nine seasons in the league. He is entering his prime years and should continue to excel into his 30s.
Why Robert Kraft's Deposition Could Play a Key Role in Colin Kaepernick's Collusion Case
A source with knowledge of Colin Kaepernick’s collusion grievance has told The MMQB that attorneys for Kaepernick deposed New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft on Friday. The source says the deposition occurred at Patriot Place in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It is the latest in a series of depositions of influential NFL figures who could have information pertinent to Kaepernick’s grievance.
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