NBA Free Agent Frenzy 2010: Predictions

Right now during a fantastic World Cup and heated baseball season, the NBA is still on everybody's mind. The Lakers are the champs, the draft has been held, and now it is time for the main event: free agency. The summer that will change the landscape of the NBA is finally upon us, and at NextGen Sports, we would like to show you where each marquee free agent will go and why

John's Predictions:

Lebron James: Chicago Bulls. They have enough salary space to sign two max contract free agents and are a young team that will only get better with Derrick Rose at point guard. The Bulls have been to the playoffs already and will give LeBron his best chance to win. Plus it doesn't hurt that Chicago is one of the three biggest sports markets in the United States along with New York and Los Angeles

Dwayne Wade: Miami Heat. Wade is absolutely staying in Miami. The Heat have enough money to sign three max salary free agents, so team president Pat Riley will make sure they resign Wade then go out and get two elite players to help Wade bring another championship to South Beach

Chris Bosh: Miami Heat. Once Wade is resigned, Bosh will be the first player Pat Riley will pursue. He would be a presence in the low post and be a huge upgrade over Udonis Haslem. Bosh is the one free agent that has absolutely no chance of staying on his team (Toronto Raptors) because he wants to win now

Amare Stoudemire: Phoenix Suns. The negotiations between Stoudemire and the Suns front office haven't been pretty. They told him at one point they didn't want to pay him as a max salary free agent, but changed their minds and are offering him three years at max salary. Phoenix is the place which best suits Stoudemire's skills as a big man in their transition offense

Joe Johnson: New York Knicks. The Knicks consider him as a plan B to LeBron, and by the day it is looking more and more likely that King James will not be playing in Madison Square Garden next year. Johnson's the next best scorer available besides Wade and James

Dirk Nowitzki: Dallas Mavericks. Dirk means as much to the Dallas fans as Wade means to Heat fans, and don't expect for owner Mark Cuban to let him go. He really hasn't shown any intentions of going anywhere else

Carlos Boozer: New York Knicks. The Knicks sign Boozer as the second of the two max salary free agents they can afford. Pairing him up with Joe Johnson will be pretty intimidating, but it sure isn't LeBron and Bosh

Paul Pierce: Boston Celtics. The Celtics won't let Pierce leave. He's been there his entire career, and they have been very successful as of late. Ray Allen, who is also a free agent, probably will be resigned as well. The Celtics want to keep their Big 3together and make perhaps one last run at the Finals

David Lee: New Jersey Nets. If the Knicks get Booz, Lee might go to the Nets. They just lost Yi Jianlian at forward, and even though Derrick Favors is a good prospect, the team views him more as a commodity to trade rather than a future face of the franchise.

Rudy Gay: New Jersey Nets. If things turn out as predicted here. the Nets will really not have landed an elite free agent. Rudy Gay is a pretty good consolation prize, and the Nets would probably overpay the young wingman

Daniel's Predictions:
Lebron James: Cleveland Cavaliers. LeBron has to stay in Cleveland. He was born in Akron, and his entire marketability is based on the hometown charm. Yes, the 2 time MVP could elevate to the world's most popular athlete in a market such as New York or eventually Brooklyn, but leaving Cleveland will enrage the entire state of Ohio.

Dwayne Wade: Miami Heat. He does not go anywhere. The Heat have enough cap room to sign 2 other maximum contract free agents. Yes, Wadee is a native of Chicago's South Side, but D-Wade is comfortable in South Beach. He is the definite face of the franchise, with Pat Riley waiting in the wings to coach another potential championship team

Chris Bosh: Miami Heat. Here is where it gets interesting. Bosh, in my opinion, is a great player but not a maximum contract guy. Let's look at the history of the "maximum contract guy ?" It was put in place to keep namely Larry Bird in Boston, offering him more money to stay with Celtics. Obviously, Bosh is very talented, but he is clearly not within the stratosphere of Bird. Bottom line: Bosh follows Wade to Miami.

Amar'e Stoudemire: New York Knicks. Injuries are certainly prevalent with Stoudemire. He had microfracture surgery just a couple of years ago, and a detached retina kept him out for most of 2008-09. Doctors say that one more poke in the eye could end Amar'e's career. That being said, he is certainly an elite power forward. I think he ends up in New York with his old, beloved coach, Mike D'Antoni.

Joe Johnson: New York Knicks. He does not deserve a maximum contract, but Atlanta reportedly thinks otherwise. Johnson lacks the maturity to lead a basketball team, and he is tired of playing in the shadows of downtown Atlanta. As a result, I see Johnson returning to Mike D'Antoni, his first NBA coach, in New York. He would love the opportunity to reignite an up tempo, gunning offense with his old teammate, Amar'e Stoudemire

Dirk Nowitzki: Cleveland Cavaliers. This former NBA MVP is probably the most overlooked player in the free agent class. I think the Mavericks have decided Dirk cannot be the leader of an NBA Championship team, evidenced by their collapse in 2006. In short, Nowitzki is a perfect fit for Cleveland. Expect Cavaliers' general manager Chris Grant to seriously pursue him as a running mate to LeBron

Carlos Boozer: Chicago Bulls. Boozer feels disrespected by the Utah Jazz. They refused to sign the former 2nd round pick to a contract extension. Furthermore, the Jazz currently lack the necessary money to resign Boozer. Look for the Chicago Bulls to sign Boozer. They need another inside force to help Joakim Noah. A trio of Rose, Noah and Boozer would be formidable, especially in the weak Eastern Conference

Paul Pierce: Boston Celtics. Doc Rivers is coming back, and, therefore, the Celtics captain will return, as well. Pierce's decision to opt out is a ploy to earn more money and not to leave Boston.

David Lee: New Jersey Nets. Quietly, he is one of the league's best offensive rebounders. I belive New York goes after Amar'e and Joe Johnson, leaving the soon-to-be Brooklyn Nets available to sign the former Florida standout.

Rudy Gay: New Jersey Nets. Gay has really matured since his days at UCONN. After the Nets traded Chris Douglas-Roberts away this offseason, owner Mikhail Prokhorov could pursue Rudy Gay. With a lineup potentially consisting of Devin Harris, Courteney Lee, Rudy Gay, David Lee, and Brook Lopez, the Nets should be a lock for the playoffs

-John Stoller, Daniel Radov

The Future of USA Soccer

It's tough to classify if the United State's recent World Cup journey was a "success or a failure", in blunt terms. Losing to Ghana in the Round of 16 was absolutely an upgrade to the Yank's 2006 exit in Germany after group play, but you could tell the players (and the fans) wanted more. Under new coach Bob Bradley the US finished first in Group C, ahead of the highly touted English and surprising Slovenians. The figurehead of South Africa 2010 for America was midfielder Landon Donovan, undoubtably the most talented American player of his generation. He had plenty of help though, especially from a skilled veteran core of players infused with much needed youthful talent. Goalie Tim Howard, centerback and team captain Carlos Bocanegra, and attacking middie Clint Dempsey helped Donovan lead the squad to hopefully a new age in United States soccer. This aforementioned new age hopefully will be one where we will see the Stars and Stripes in the Top 10 FIFA World Rankings year in and year out, and able to compete with European and South American powerhouses. There's no reason not to believe US soccer is on the rise, and by the next World Cup in Brazil, 2014, the Yanks should be much more explosive on offense and more well rounded overall.

Four years from now in the place where soccer is religion, Brazil, look for the United Sates to improve on this year's World Cup finish, and possibly have a quarter or semifinals berth. First off, it is seeming more and more likely by the day that Bob Bradley might not be the man at the helm for the Yanks, seeing as only two countries in this year's Cup had the same coach as they did four years earlier, Greece and Italy (and we all saw how that turned out!). Eight years is a very long time for a coach in today's turmoil-filled sporting world to be employed. International coaches have especially a very high turnover rate because of tall expectations of their countries and respective "football federations". Not to say Bradley did not do a great job with this team, but a change could be in order "just for the sake of change".

The United States have two main priorities to address before they officially compete again on the World's biggest stage: the defensive back line and striker positions. First off, defenders Carlos Bocanegra, Jay DeMerit, and the injury-marred Oguchi Onyewu will all be well over the age of 30. Seeing how one of the best backs of all time, Fabio Cannavaro, played this past World Cup at age 36, the Yanks might want to look for youth on the back line and avoid aging defenders. Role players who were included on this year's 23 man roster, Jonathan Bornstein and Jonathon Spector are definite favorites to step up and fill the voids left by the departing vets. Bornstein will be 29 come 2014, and was a steady presence on defense when used this past World Cup. A possible move to play soccer overseas could further enrich his game. Spector, already playing against some of the world's best in the English Premier League, is only 24 right now. He will have plenty of time and opportunities to prove to be good solution in the long run for the US. Obviously, other defenders will get looks to be on the national team as well. The Yanks draw many players from the talent pools they have in the MLS and U-20 national teams. Some huge homegrown talents that could be featuring on the US defense in several years are Omar Gonzalez and Ike Opara. Gonzalez was the 2009 MLS Rookie of the Year, and Opara; the third overall pick in the 2010 MLS draft. Both players were fixtures on the U-20 team, and are physically impressive and fundamentally sound talents.

At striker, the Yanks seem to be on more solid ground because of Jozy Altidore's youth and potential. The Villareal forward was only 20 this past World Cup, and showed flairs of brilliance with his ability to run counterattacks with lightning speed. He did have trouble finishing those chances, and finished the Cup with 0 goals, but with 4 more years of maturing he could turn into a dangerous creator and scorer. Charles Davies missed South Africa because of injuries he sustained in an October car crash. His absence was very untimely for the States, and was fully felt. In 4 years he will be 28, and hopefully in prime condition to help the United State's anemic striker core.

The base of the US team will be built around midfield Michael Bradley (left). He had a breakout World Cup, with the tying goal in the Yank's improbable comeback versus Slovenia. He is 22 years old, entering the prime of his career, and perhaps ready to play for a powerful European club. Maurice Edu (right) will be another essential player to the team if the US want to advance deep into the next World Cup. The defensive middie played very well when given the opportunity, and is a physical presence that controls the middle of the pitch. He is dangerous on set pieces because of his height and ability to head the ball goalwards. The 24 year old has a pretty decent offensive game for a defensive player.

In the United States it appears soccer is a sport on the rise. With the talent pool from which the Yanks draw players from growing, and experienced veterans coming back, there is a great chance the States make a deep run in Brazil 2014.

-JS

'Nova Nation

We, the staff of NextGenSports, have decided to personalize our blog to the readers. Just last week, I spent some time with the Villanova Basketball team in Philadelphia. Two years removed from a magical run to the Final Four highlighted by point guard Scottie Reynolds's game-winner against Pittsburgh in the Sweet 16, the Wildcats, seeded 2nd, fell unexpectedly to St. Mary's in the Second Round of the 2010 NCAA Tournament.

With the departure of Reynolds and fellow leading scorer at small forward Reggie Redding, the offense this season looks to revolve around center Mouphtaou Yarou (above). The 6 foot 9 inch center from Montrose Christian has been playing basketball for just three years, but quickly he has established himself alongside Louisville's Samardo Samuels as the two elite post men in the Big East. Last Friday, I sat down with Yarou, the class of 2010's number 10 overall recruit.

Me: Your freshman season was delayed by rumors that you were in fact 25 years of age. How did you overcome these problems?

Yarou: Actually, they weren't much of a factor. I knew from the start they weren't really true, so I did not let it affect me.

Q: How do prepare yourself to be the focal point of this Villanova basketball team?

A: I don't think about it at all. We are different; we don't just throw it down in the post, and let someone score 1 on 1. Coach Wright stresses team basketball, meaning that each person should be involved on each play, obviously, and that each player whether you are a point guard or a center must be able to do certain skills well. A center must be able to shoot it from outside, and the guards need to be able to rebound.

Q: What effect did fellow big man Antonio Pena have on you last season?

A: He did a great job really helping me to adjust to the Big East. I cannot wait to play with Antonio next season. We should be a pretty dangerous 1,2 punch down low.

Q: Describe the significance of Taylor King's departure.

A: He was a big rebounder for this basketball team, who had the knack to shoot the 3 very well. In terms of stretching the defense and really providing mismatches, Taylor was important.

Q: Was there any added significance in the away matchup against Syracuse? The Orangemen had the largest on-hand crowd in NCAA regular season history.

A: I guess we were a little nervous playing in front of everyone, but once the game started not really. Once you are on the court, doing the thing you have done with your teammates for so many months, it just seems like practice again. No question, there was an incredible amount of fans, but basketball stays the same.

Q: Why was Omar Samhan so effective against you guys in the NCAA Tournament?

A: He was just so skilled. He got to the basketball with ease and knew how to finish down low. Our game plan was to eliminate his outside game as well as his ability to get others involved. We clearly did not do such a great job. Samhan played great.

Q: Perhaps most important, why did you chose Villanova?

A: I just love it. I love the campus, the atmosphere, and the environment. I love Scottie (of course referring to former All-American point guard Scottie Reynolds) and definitely Coach Wright. The university just really fit me and my personality. This is an elite basketball program, among the top in the country. I am so impressed with everything, to be honest.

Q: How did you adjust to Coach Wright's dribble drive offense in your freshman year, which centered on Scottie and Cory getting to the basket?

A: If anything, it made my job easier. I got such good looks all year. This season, I expect to be exhibiting my post moves more often.

Q: I see you are wearing an necklace of the continent of Africa, I am sure you are watching the World Cup, how do you like to win it all and why?

A: Holland. Too much offense all over the field. I love Robben, Van Persie and Kuyt up top. They are just so exciting.

As of right now, Yarou's tandem of size and strength projects him as a surefire first round pick. With a bit more seasoning especially on the defensive end, there is no reason why Yarou cannot be this year's version of Baylor's Ekpe Udoh, who went #6 to Golden State. Shotblocking is a skill that comes easily to both West African products.

-DR

New York's Other First Baseman

In the 2010 season many rookies have arrived on the scene with very little or no minor league experience at all many more than in recent memory. Some question the talent in Major League Baseball and if that talent has decreased drastically since the steorid era has seen to come to a crashing halt.With more level playing fields it has made it easier for young talent to quickly work through the minor leagues to get to the Major Leagues. This week we'll be spotlighting rookies in the National League, specifically Ike Davis (above) of the New York Mets, Stephen Strasburg of the Washington Nationals, Mike Leake of the Cincinnati Reds, Colby Rasmus of the St. Louis Cardinals, and David Freese also of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Lets start with Ike Davis of the New York Mets, drafted in 2008 with the 18th overall pick out of Arizona State it has took Davis just 1 1/2 years in the minor leagues to be called up to the Big Apple. Davis joins his father Ron, as the 197th father-son combination to have played in the Major Leagues.

In high school, Davis lead his team to three straight Arizona state championships from 2003-2005. Not only did Davis excel with the bat hitting .447 in high school but was even more dominant as a pitcher posting a 23-0 record with a 1.85 ERA and 14 Saves. While he was still in High School Davis pitched for the gold medal winning U.S.A. youth national team in the 2003 world championships. Davis earned honors as MVP of the All American High School Baseball classic in 2004.

After his senior year of high school Davis was drafted in the 19th round by the Tampa Bay Rays but rather than signing a contract with the Rays Davis made a choice to go to college as he chose Arizona State over the baseball powerhouse of Texas. In his three seasons as a Sun Devil Davis batted an impressive .353 with a slugging percentage of .605 which ranks number ten in Sun Devil history. Although Davis was a prototypical power hitter for the Sun Devils and drove in 202 Rbi's which ranks 2nd in Sun Devils history Davis scored a total of 159 runs himself which ranks him 8th all time in team history. His 33 homeruns ranks him 5th all time in team history to go along with his 69 doubles which puts him number two all time behind Red Sox second basemen and former Sun Devil standout Dustin Pedoria. Not only did Davis standout at the plate he was also an exceptional closer posting a 7-5 career record with 4 saves and 78 strikeouts with an ERA under 3.50. With all these accomplishments Davis was inveitably named to the Sun Devils all decade team for the 2000's.

In 2008 Davis was drafted 18th overall by the New York Mets a pick which was received by the Mets as compensation from the Atlanta Braves for the signing of former all star and Cy Young winner Tom Glavine. Davis was quoted as saying ""It was a huge thrill. I was excited to be picked by New York." Davis received a $1.575 million contract and was assigned to cyclones of single A. In just 58 games Davis excelled with the glove committing just one error in 492 total chances at first base which accumlated to .998 fielding percentage tops in the league.

By the time the 2009 season rolled around Davis was ready to make an impact. Coming off a less than stellar season with the cyclones at the plate which saw Davis bat a measly .256 with no homeruns, Davis knew it was his time to shine at the plate. In 59 games at single A Port St. Luice Davis began to take charge batting .289 with 7 home runs in 59 games. Then, Davis was promoted to Double A Binghamton where he shined batting .309 with 13 home runs and 41 Rbi's while slugging an impressive .565 in just over a half season. Mako Oliveras the Binghamton Mets manger was quoted as saying ""Very live bat; the ball jumps off his bat when he makes contact.

Davis came into the 2010 season with an upbeat vibe and attitude on his chances of making the opening day roster. Davis' competition in spring training included a medicore cast of first basemen as the Mets signed former Marlin and once perviously high regarded farm hand Mike Jacobs to a 1 year $900,000 contract along with the re-signing of utility man Fernado Tatis. Davis lead the team in Spring training with a .480 average as he belted 3 homers but this was still not enough to land Davis a roster spot on opening day. All star shortsto Jose Reyes praised Davis for his glove work and had this to said "People talk about his hitting, but he is one of the best defensive first basemen you will ever see for a player his age". Davis who was praised by many of his teammates and who was pulled hard for by his fellow teammates was sent to the Minor Leagues the Mets triple A affiliate Buffalo. However, this would not last that long as Davis was called up to the struggling Mets on April 19, where he would make his debut against the Chicago Cubs a debut which saw Davis go 2-4 with 2 singles in Mets win. It took Davis just four major league games to belt his first home run against the Atlanta Braves which was estimated at 450 feet and landed out on the Shea Bridge in deep right center field at CITI field.

Not only has Davis made an impact with the bat but his slick fielding propelled Davis to making 3over the railing catches in his first 21 games. To date Davis is batting .269 with 9 home runs and 33 Rbi's while hitting clean up night in and night out for the New York Mets a tough job for anyone in New York to deal with let alone a rookie. It is still unknown if Davis will remain in the clean up hole when All Star centerfield and multi skilled Carlos Beltran returns, but for Davis a dream has already come true and his impact has been measured greatly both on the field and off the field with his quiet soothing prescence both inside and outside the New York Mets clubhouse.

-Justin Silberman (guest writer)

Wimbledon, So Far?

Andy Roddick was just ousted from the All England Club after losing to Yen-Hsun Lu of Taiwan, who was ranked 82nd heading into Wimbledon. By all accounts, Roddick was upset, but Lu is not so much of a no name than an underachiever. He has been a regular on the ATP since 2001, and the native of Taipei is currently the #1 Asian professional tennis player. Dont forget, Roddick lost in five sets, including a 5th set that lasted 16 games (9-7). That being said, it wasn't nearly in the stratosphere of Isner-Mahut and their 138 game 5th set.

Clearly, the breakout player of the 2010 Wimbledon Championships is the man who annhilated Isner two days following his 3 day epic. His name is Thiemo De Bakker (left). Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and hailing from the Netherlands, De Bakker was quite an accomplished junior player, in the most objective point of view. He won the Boys' Singles title at Wimbledon in 2006, and in just 3 years, he has catapulted to 43rd in the most recent of ATP Rankings.

At age 21, De Bakker is the highest ranked Dutch player in the world. His tall, lanky frame reminds many of Argentine sensation and 2009 U.S. Open Champion, Juan Martin Del Potro. Both use their powerful serves to complement attacking styles of tennis. The key for De Bakker is his prowess at the net. At the ATP level, penetrating ground strokes are a given, but a vintage type of serve-and-volley tennis could perhaps prove troublesome for many opponents. Nowadays, matches are almost always won on the baseline, and De Bakker could force other players to beat him with overhead lobs and passing shots. Granted, this task could prove difficult against the tremendous size of De Bakker. One element of De Bakker has mastered is the ability to win against elite competition. Regardless of how John Isner felt, a 74 minute match is not a viable excuse. Furthermore, De Bakker has handled the likes of France's Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Juan Carlos Ferrero of Spanish and former #1 player in the world, as well as G.G. Lopez.

Not as acclaimed yet still promising is Germany's Daniel Brands. He is ranked 77th in the world at only the age of 23. To thus point, his career could be described as lackluster, at best. Nevertheless, he seemed to really embrace the atmosphere at Wimbledon, coming within a victory against Tomas Berdych to reach the quarterfinals. Most impressively, Brands defeated the world's 7th best player in Nikolay Davydenko. The Russian has been recovering from injury, however.

Brands' persistent play brought hopes to a nation lacking an elite tennis player outside of veteran and oft-injured Tommy Haas. Plus, at 6 feet 5 inches, Brands certainly has the weapons to compete regularly on tour. He fits the mold of a modern day tennis player, who is freakishly large with a powerful serve yet possesses the quickness to reach balls all over the court. In fact, Brands is quite similar to De Bakker of the Netherlands. Yes, Thiemo De Bakker is farther along the path of maturity in terms of tennis, but this year has proved that Wimbledon is again the world's fastest surface.

With this in mind, the serve-and-volley players have been able to shine. Master of the style Pete Sampras excelled for years at the All England Club. Fellow Wimbledon all-time champion Roger Federer showed that the grass can be tamed from the baseline, and his 6 titles are a solid reference, yet grass has always been the dwelling for the serve and volley. Remember Mark Philippoussis, the man who lost to Federer in 2003, he was 6 foot 5 inches. Goran Ivaniševic, at 6 foot 6 inches, certainly loved to come to net on his service games, and he was the last champion besides baseline extraordinaires Lleyton Hewitt, Federer or Nadal to win Wimbledon.

-DR

Road to the NBA Part 3: Mock Draft Lottery

1. Washington Wizards: John Wall, Kentucky PG

Wall is the consensus top prospect in this draft for his incredible speed, and electrifying creative ability. He can run the fast break like no other prospect that has been seen in years and has off the charts athletic ability. Wall is a wizard with the basketball, and is impossible to keep out of the lane with his combination of quickness and skill. He will move Gilbert Arenas to the 2 guard spot in Washington's lineup and quickly become the face of basketball in DC.

NBA Comparison: Rajon Rondo (with better shooting ability)

2. Philadelphia 76ers: Evan Turner, Ohio State SF

Turner is a high pedigree, multi faceted player who can rebound as well as he can score. Also, despite him being listed as a forward, he can play at point guard as a change of pace. He is an average athlete when it comes to forwards, but is so smooth handling the ball that it doesn't really matter. Look for Turner to compliment Andre Iguodala in Philly to form a dynamic scoring combo.

NBA Comparison: Grant Hill/Brandon Roy

3. New Jersey Nets: Derrick Favors, Georgia Tech PF

Favors is the most athletic and well conditioned big man in the draft. He needs to continue to bulk up his 6'10" frame and get some kind of consistency on his jumper and outside game. Favors has huge upside and already is an accomplished shot blocker and lock down defender. Favors could pair up with Brook Lopez in New Jersey to create a very talented front court of the future.

NBA Comparison: Antonio McDyess/Al Horford

4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Wesley Johnson, Syracuse SF

Johnson is the kind of athletic, scoring wing player that the Timberwolves need. He has a great personality and is sure to be a fan favorite in Minnesota, and can be counted on to grab rebounds and play great defense. Johnson is quick and can get through the lane, and is also very reliable on his jumpshot.

NBA Comparison: Shawn Marion

5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins, Kentucky PF/C

Cousins could possibly be the most talented player in the draft besides his former Kentucky teammate John Wall. Many times this year he showed how dominating he could be in the low post, practically unstoppable from scoring even when double or triple teams converged on him. Unfortunately, there are questions about Cousins maturity and composure on the court. The Kings will take a risk on him considering he is such a talent, and look for him to replace Spencer Hawes in the lineup.

NBA Comparison: Zach Randolph

6. Golden State Warriors: Greg Monroe, Georgetown PF/C

Monroe is a very complete big man prospect. He has a dynamic offensive game (that even includes some outside shooting) and also rebounds and delivers outlet passes to his teammates regularly. Monroe's versatility and experience from two years in the college game will help alleviate the pressures on a weak Golden State front court made up of draft busts Anthony Randolph and Brandan Wright.

NBA Comparison: Brad Miller

7. Detroit Pistons: Al-Farouq Aminu, Wake Forest SF/PF

Aminu is a fairly raw player with all that athletic ability in the world. Like Wes Johnson and Derrick Favors, he relies on that ability to defend and grab rebounds. In the pro's Aminu will have to refine his outside game and learn how to create shots for himself more in order to become a successful small forward. All the physical attributes are there, with his 6'8" height and long wingspan. The Pistons could use Aminu as both a wing player and power forward, and lend his tremendous shot blocking ability also.

NBA Comparison: Marvin Williams/Josh Smith

8. Los Angeles Clippers: Gordon Hayward, Butler SF

For what Hayward lacks in athleticism and aggression he makes up in ball skill and basketball IQ. He is a great teammate, and can lead an offense from the point forward position or play off the ball. His outside jumper and ability to create his own shot should transfer just fine to the next level. The Clippers don't have a small forward on their roster, and with Aminu off the board, Hayward should be the pick.

NBA Comparison: Mike Dunleavy Jr.

9. Utah Jazz: Luke Babbitt, Nevada SF/PF

Babbitt's draft stock has shot up more than perhaps any other player in the past few weeks. He has a reliable three-point shot, which is the highlight of his very well rounded offensive game that includes posting up and passing as well. His defense sometimes is questionable, and many wonder how he will be able to deal with bigger, stronger opponents in the NBA. The Jazz need insurance just in case Carlos Boozer and/or Kyle Korver leave as free agents, and Babbitt is a versatile replacement.

NBA Comparison: Danilo Gallinari

10. Indiana Pacers: Epke Udoh, Baylor PF

Udoh is far and away the best shot blocker in the draft. It is nearly impossibly to post up and get a shot over his outstretched arms. His length is also vital to his rebounding prowess, and raw offensive ability. In the pros he will have to refine his offensive game and bulk up, but look for Udoh to be a defensive beast throughout his career. The Pacers would benefit greatly from his athleticism and energy.

NBA Comparison: Serge Ibaka

11. New Orleans Hornets: Ed Davis, North Carolina PF

The Hornets would be thrilled to have Davis fall this far to them. He would add much needed depth inside for the team, and provide offensive spark off the bench. He possesses a very lean 6'9" frame that would need bulking up to help him play in the NBA low post. Davis is a decent athlete with excellent length and finishing touch around the basket.

NBA Comparison: JJ Hickson

12. Memphis Grizzlies: Patrick Patterson, Kentucky PF

Patterson has the ideal build and height for an NBA forward, and the athletic ability to match. Teams love his work ethic, maturity, and all out defense, which should lead to the Grizzlies picking him if available. He would be a breathe of fresh air considering the off the court issues their usual starter, Zach Randolph, regularly has. Patterson's rebounding ability leaves something to be desired, for he was never a great one in college, and his face up game to the basket is in question as well.

NBA Comparison: Carl Landry/Kenyon Martin

13. Toronto Raptors: Cole Aldrich, Kansas PF/C

Aldrich is a fundamentally sound big body down low that has solid low post offensive and defensive games. He lacks great athleticism though, and could be outmaneuvered in the pros by much quicker centers. Also he has an unorthodox shooting motion which could hold back his mid range game and free throw shooting. Specifically, Aldrich's relentless rebounding and shot blocking ability should make him a decent replacement for Chris Bosh once the superstar leaves in free agency

NBA Comparison: Joe Pryzbilla

14. Houston Rockets: Xavier Henry, Kansas SG

Henry is an a strong and well built shooting guard prospect whose well rounded offensive game leaves scouts salivating. He shoots incredibly well from three, and slashes through the lane and can pull up for jumpers equally as effectively. Henry has the potential to be an All-Star, especially with the pedigree he had coming out of high school, and then playing for a legendary program like Kansas. Henry's defense is slightly in question, but is nothing that can't be developed. His athletic ability is good, but not great; which could pose some problems when matched up on high caliber perimeter defenders. The Rockets get a steal at the end of the lottery with a top 10 talent that could develop into a great player down the line.

NBA Comparison: Paul Pierce

Draft's most underrated player: Paul George, Fresno State SG/SF

George is one of the biggest sleepers in the draft, and personally I would put him on a plateau up there with Evan Turner as one the two most well rounded scorers in it. He is a terrific three point shooter, but can get a little trigger happy from beyond the arc sometimes. He possesses great speed and court vision that helps him run the fast break with ease, usually ending with a dunk by him or assist he dishes to one of his teammates. He is an athletic freak that rebounds well and plays solid defense, and that combo along with his shooting is rare to find in prospects.

NBA Comparison: Danny Granger

Draft's most overrated player: Daniel Orton, Kentucky PF/C

Talent and athleticism are great to have in a prospect like Orton, but another thing is needed is needed to succeed in the NBA: experience (well at least a little). In college Orton averaged 3 points per game and 3 rebounds per game because of very spotty playing time. Sure, he played behind DeMarcus Cousins, one of the best big men in college, but still it is a worry he had probably as much playing time all season as John Wall had in a single game. In the NBA, Orton could be a solid defensive specialist and rebounder, but not much else considering he is so raw and doesn't have much offensive ability (and hasn't had a chance to develop it either). He should be being talked about as a second round pick, not a potential lottery guy.

NBA Comparison: poor man's Kendrick Perkins

-JS

The 2nd Day at Pebble Beach

Not so fast, says Phil Mickelson. With four birdies on the first six holes, the second ranked player in the world skyrocketed up the leaderboard to 1 under. He is currently two shots behind Northern Ireland's Graeme McDowell. His 66 is the lowest round of the tournament, catapulting Lefty into prime position to grab his first U.S. Open.

Ernie Els is also at 1 under for the championship after a 3 under 68. Formerly ranked 3rd in the world, the South African has won 3 major championship including 2 U.S. Opens in 1994 and 1997, but his game recently has been lacking. Many analysts point the accident Els suffered in 2005, tearing his ACL. They believe that only time could heal the mental wounds caused by sudden jolts of pain. This theory is weighted by Els' solid play in 2010. He has already won a tournament, and Els has contended throughout the PGA Tour season.

For the first two rounds, Els played with Woods and the world's fourth ranked player,

Lee Westwood. He certainly did not falter in both players' shadows, a sign that Els has returned to form mentally as well as physically. At 6 foot 3 inches, the "Big Easy" seems to have regained his knack to shine under pressure.

Ryo Ishikawa, with a round of 70, continues to be consistent at Pebble Beach. Although a teenager has never won a major championship, I would not be stunned if he were the first.

Fellow South African Tim Clark sits at 2 over following consecutive rounds of 72. He really has excelled on Tour this season, finally mastering his pot belly putting technique to complement his world class ball striking. At the Player's Championship, Clark exploded from the field to capture the title. With McDowell only 5 strokes ahead, he could be a factor as the tournament progresses. Nevertheless, as hard as the TPC Sawgrass can be, Pebble Beach is a completely different entity. It very well might be the world's most difficult course, especially when the wind is gusting.

Not to be overly ambitious yet Tom Watson played quite well in his second round. The 1982 U.S. Open Champion at Pebble Beach shot a 7 over 78 in round 1, but followed with a 1 under 70 today. The 60 year old Watson should find himself within the top 20 come the tournament's end, but another win along the shores of the Monterrey Bay seems unlikely for the Kansas native. It would be a feel good story, and perhaps one of redemption for Watson, after handing the 2009 British Open away to Stewart Cink. Still, a top 20 finish coupled with a tied for 18th at Augusta leaves people wondering whether Saint Andrews and the British Open could be Waton's 6th British Open.

Tiger Woods turned in another lackluster performance on Friday, shooting a 1 over 72. He enters Saturday 8 shots behind McDowell, with his chances at major championship number 15 dwindling before his eyes. Woods has not putted well all week, telling the media on Thursday that the greens were "some of the worst he has ever seen." Odd comments for Woods, considering the greens, which are composed primarily of poe anna grass, are favorites of the world's number one ranked player. He excelled on similar poe anna greens in 2008 at Torrey Pines as well as in 2000 on these very greens.

-DR

U.S Open Day 1 Recap

Phil Mickelson was the favorite heading into the first round of the 110th U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. But that isn't a shock? The 4 time major champion has finished second in the United States Open five times, and not to mention, Pebble Beach was the site of Mickelson's pro debut. Unfortunately for Phil, he shot 75. I am not writing him off, but the day belonged to NCAA golfers.

Tied for the lead at 2 under par, Hudson Swafford (left) is playing in his first U.S. Open. He redshirted this past season at the University of Georgia because of chronic shoulder problems. In 2008 and 2009, the 22 year old Swafford earned 2nd team All-America honors.

Morgan Hoffman sits just two shots off the pace at even par. A native of New Jersey, the 20 year old posted two 67s to qualify for the U.S. Open. Oddly enough, he won the Phil Mickelson award in 2009, as the nation's top freshman. Hoffman, currently a sophomore, earned 1st team All-America honors as a freshman. He lost in the NCAA title match this past season.

Although not a college attendee, Japan's Ryo Ishikawa appears to be the youngest golfer primed for contention come Sunday at Pebble Beach. He has already been profiled on NextGenSports, and Ishikawa's maturity on the golf course has been described by Tiger Woods as "otherwordly." One radio analyst contended that Ishikawa is so impressive compared to other athletes. He mentioned that at 18 year old in football, baseball or basketball, one would likely be in college, merely refining his/her skills. Not for Ishikawa. After shooting a 1 under 70, he is for real. Just look at his spot in the World Golf Rankings. His is in the top 50, at number 47, and clearly, the Japanese phenom is here to stay.

Back to the NCAA, the low round of day belonged to another golfer with ties to collegiant ranks. He is a graduate of Virginia Tech, albeit a native of Zimbabwe. Brendon de Jonge carded an eagle of the par 5 14th hole deemed by certain golf pundits as the hardest par 5 in golf. As an avid videogamer whose has battled the treacherous layout of Pebble Beach, I can contend that number 14 is literally impossible. Par on that hole is a good score. de Jonge ended up shooting 69.

Carding a 69 as well, alongside de Jonge, sat Englishman and former number 3 player in the world, Paul Casey. He certainly is no stranger to contending in majors, just look at the Masters in 2008. Yet, this Arizona State graduate has struggled in competition in the States. Most of the Casey's wins and World Rankings' points have come on the European Tour. I don't mean to downplay Casey as a possible contender, but I wonder if this David Leadbetter pupil can get it done. Seriously, when was the last time not only an Englishman but a European won a U.S. Open? 40 years ago, Tony Jacklin triumphed at Hazeltine in Minnesota.

Look for de Jonge, playing in his first U.S. Open to falter. I doubt many have him winning the entire championship. Casey should fade, too. Dustin Johnson is a name to watch. He has won the last 2 times at this course for the annual PGA Tour stop, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. At 1 under and possessing a keen sense of Pebble Beach's devishly quick greens, Johnson appears to primed for contention at the 110th U.S. Open. Don't forget: Johnson has been playing steadily all season long.

-DR

Conferences, the Future

As I sit down to write this article, I can confidently assert that the future of college sports looks much brighter today than as of yesterday. The six major conferences, consisting of the ACC, Big East, SEC, Big 10, Big 12 and Pac 10 all remain in tact. Yes, certain teams have changed conferences, but the overall landscape is stable, thanks to one school in particular, the University of Texas Longhorns (pictured above).

Let us rewind 24 hours. The Big 12 was in shambles. Nebraska had bolted to the Big 10, enticed by the conference's own network and the guaranteed $20-25 million the university would receive annually. Fellow North division opponent Colorado had already announced its intentions to join the Pac 10. Money seems to be the driving force behind the Buffaloes decision, yet statistics show that the Big 12 has a greater total revenue than the Pac 10. Yes, the distribution between teams in the Big 12 is unequal, with national powerhouses, such as Texas, Oklahoma and Oklahoma State receiving the majority of the money. Furthermore, these national powerhouses who headline the Big 12 Conference were reviewing moves to Pac 10, as well. The University of Texas A&M was even considering moving to the football crazy SEC.

If this were to have occurred, with Oklahoma, Texas, Oklahoma State, and others, the Pac 10 would have been drastically different. With more than 12 teams, the conference, as deemed by the NCAA, is eligible to create divisions. In ideal circumstances, the former Big 12 members would pair with Arizona, Arizona State, and perhaps USC to form the South Division. While, Oregon, Oregon State, Washington, and California would headline the North Division. At the end of the football season, the winners of each division would play in the Pac 10 Championship Game, an entity that does not yet exist within the conference, to determine which team would play in the BCS Bowl Games.

Expectedly, this new super Pac 10 Conference creates more problems within the BCS. Imagine for a moment that the Pac 10 as well as the Big 10 expand drastically to accomodate for all Big 12 teams. Thus, the NCAA would now have only 5 major conferences. The BCS, in its current system, awards each major conference one BCS berth. Thus, the conference winners, as of now, account for 6 of the 10 teams in BCS Bowls. In the scenario with 5 conferences, rules would have to amended, and many analysts point to this possible conference expansion as a stepping stone to a playoff system. Certainly, fans nationwide would not be averse to such a system.

This morning, Big 12 Commissioner Don Beebe persuaded University of Texas and President Bill Powers to stay in the Big 12 Conference. With just 10 teams, two divisions and a conference title game would both be elements of the past. Beebe, however, promised a more lucrative TV deal, which would likely pay the Longhorns between $20-25 million per year. Unfortunately, the conference will likely not have its own network. Texas emerges as the culprit. The University already has a network dedicated to the Longhorns, and, as childish as it may appear, they are unwilling to remove themselves from the spotlight. Not all is bad for teams, such as Kansas, Missouri, and Iowa State. No, they will not receive revenue like the conferences elite, but they should generate double their current amount of revenue.

Complicated? Yes, but unfortunately, the fate of the Big 10 causes an entirely different headache. With the addition of Nebraska, the conference expands to 12 teams. (I know the conference signifies there should be 10 teams, but Penn State, the Big 10's 11th team, joined years after the conference was named). Two division and a conference championship game appear to be in the Big 10's future, but will the conference stop at 12 teams. Conference Commissioner Jim Delaney is keen on adding Notre Dame. In football, they are an independent, meaning they can play whoever they want, whenever they want. The Fighting Irish are not constrained to a conference schedule. already? To make matters trickier, Notre Dame is a member of the Big East in every other sport. Nevertheless, the possible move of Notre Dame to the Big 10 eliminates, in essence, the university's TV deal with NBC. In terms of money, the move to the Big 10 would be costly for the Fighting Irish. The swaying factor is travel. Notre Dame is located in South Bend, IN, which is miles away from the likes of USC or Boston College. The Big 10's schedule would allow Notre Dame to travel often via bus to games, which would eliminates the cost of long plane flights.

The Big 10 is also looking to tap into the New York and New Jersey markets. As a result, Commissioner Jim Delaney looks to Rutgers as a possible members. The Scarlet Knights currently are part of the Big East, but their presence in the Big 10 brings the intrigue of the country's #1 sports market, New York City. Rutgers is also the state university of New Jersey, bringing fans from across the state to the Big 10 Conference.

In addition, Syracuse appears to be on the conference's radar. Although not anymore a football power, university provides the Big 10 with the entire up state New York market. Moreover, the Orange are an elite basketball program, perhaps helping to eliminate the perception that the conference begins and ends with football. The most intriguing dynamic, however, is the Big East. If Syracuse leaves, the conference loses one of its founding universities. It is a power in basketball, as aforementioned, with a rich tradition in both lacrosse and football. If the Orange leave the Big East, some analysts predict the conference, in its entirety, could begin to crumble.

ESPN has reported that the University of Maryland may leave the ACC to join the Big 10, as well. I'm not questioning the validity of the report or the motive of switching to a richer, more prestigious conference, but as a Maryland resident, I find the entire notion difficult to fathom. Maryland, as an athletic program, is so intertwined with its rivalries against Duke, North Carolina, and Wake Forest in basketball, and many Maryland boosters would hate to leave potential classic tussles behind.

Last but not least, Boise State has left the WAC. They are joining the Mountain West Conference, which should shape up to be the premier "mid-major" conference in the country. The Broncos should be tested against fellow football-rich programs, such as Utah, BYU and TCU. Perhaps this plethora of elite football universities will make the NCAA consider expanding to 7 major conferences, with the BCS awarding 7 automatic bids.

-DR

2010 FIFA World Cup Team to Watch: Australia

The Socceroos exceeded all expectations in the 2006 World Cup, making it out of their group into the knockout rounds before being beaten by eventual champions Italy on a questionable penalty kick. This year, the Aussies are back and better than they have ever been before. Led by 3 year coach Pim Verbeek, a Dutchman who values solid defense and goalkeeping above all else, the Socceroos will try to score early on opponents and then "close up shop" (a term applied when a team pulls its strikers back and focuses on not conceeding goals rather than scoring them). Despite being a country with very little, if any, history of World Cup success, watch the "boys from down under" fight their way out of Group D.

Australia's greatest strengths, their backend and midfield, are headed up by keeper Mark Schwarzer, defender Lucas Neill, and creative middie Tim Cahill. Schwarzer is thought to be one of the best goalies in the world. As a player for English club Fullham FC, he helped lead them very deep into the Champions league (with the help of American midfielder Clint Dempey). Schwarzer is known for his savvy at stopping penalty kicks and held seven of the eight opponents Australia faced scorless on the team's way to qualifying. Lucas Neill, the backbone of the Socceroos strong defensive unit, has captained the team for 4 years. At age 32 he is nearing the end of his international career, but don't write off this center back. Neill is an incredibly strong precense in the middle of the field and looks to mesh right in with Verbeek's defensive scheme in the 4-2-3-1 set. Australia's "Golden Boy" Tim Cahill is the team's biggest star and most vocal leader. Although not a strker, he may very well lead the team in goals this World Cup venture. The Everton middie was second on his club in goals, with 8, and uses his speed and creative ability with the ball to burn by defenders and create opporunities for his teammates. Other players to watch on this dark-horse Socceroo squad are midfielder Brett Emerton, striker Harry Kewell (who is the lone attackman in the starting line up), and defender Craig Moore.

The main question mark for the Aussies is their lack of a top line striker. The 31 year old Kewell has been plagued by injuries for the past few years. As of now he is trying to get back into match fitness from a groin injury. Everyone is Australia is hoping he recovers fully, because if not they will have trouble scoring goals relying on Brett Holman or youngster Nikita Rukavytsya. Harry Kewell is one of the most talented Australian strikers in history, and with this being probably his last World Cup, look for him to score the majority of goals for the Socceroos if healthy.

Group D perhaps could be the toughest foursome to advance from in the entire tournament, but also the most difficult to predict. Germany is favored to win the group, a large part because of their dynamic scoring duo of Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose. The Germans have been ravaged by injuries though, losing captain Michael Ballack along with Christian and Adler Traesch. Ghana is without their superstar Michael Essien, and will have trouble advancing to the next round. The Serbians are experienced and have a good defense, but their midfield is in question and social unrest in their country could prove too much to cope with.

Here at NextGen Sports, we predict Australia to come in second in their group behind Germany, and advance past the round of 16, defeating England, but losing to France in the quarter finals.

-JS