Stanford rolls-82-35 retreat of the State of Arizona (AP)

STANFORD, California - Nnemkadi Ogwumike has all 16 of his points in the first half and 8 rebounds and none. Stanford 4 Gets the 54th straight victory Pavilion Maple with a 82-35 methodical of the State of Arizona retreat on Saturday.

Jeanette Pohlen added 18 points — in the first half - 14 to address three interceptions and three assists for Cardinal (12-2, 3-0 Pac-10) in their tenth consecutive victory in the rivalry. Stanford is selected to win Crown eleventh consecutive Pac-10 Conference this season after three travel straight to the Final Four.

Dymond Simon has paved the way with seven points for shooting cold Sun Devils (10 - 4, 2-2), which were never in this game on the road to swept in their annual trip to the Bay area after a loss of 67-55, Thursday night in California.

Kayla Pedersen added 10 points and 6 rebounds in 23 minutes and Chinese freshman Ogwumike eight cardinal marked the sixth victory of right since the abandonment of two in a row - on DePaul and Tennessee - last month. The term includes a formidable victory 71-59 on then-top-ranked Connecticut, December 30 to break record Huskies 90 consecutive victories.

Tara VanDerveer, honored after the competition in a ceremony on Court reaching the elite 800 - win mark December 22 in San Francisco, got to go to the Bank at the beginning of thereof, with starters meeting most of the second half.

"Well, 800 was great fun, but what about 802?" Sports Director, said Bob Bowlsby, designate the UConn Huskies win before VanDerveer with a bouquet of flowers.

Pohlen scored 11 points and Pedersen who six during a 22-4 at the end of the first half and Stanford ahead 42-14 during the break. The Cardinal had three reserves on land against the opening 20 minutes and the rest of the route, outhustling and although outplaying misé usually fragmentary Sun Devils.

Q - Tip Ogwumike fired 7 to 11 and Pohlen 7 of 10, while 5 to 8 and Chinese Ogwumike Pedersen went five of his field goal attempts. Stanford finishes 64.8% of the floor.

Arizona State stood by for the final buzzer for the second game of law. That after the Sun Devils had won seven straight before this trip and had not lost since a 65-55 loss-nr. 14 Florida State, November 27.

Stanford is 40 games straight against opponents of the CAP consecutive-10, 34 annex Conference regular season loss to Cal won in January 2009.

The cardinal followed a season-best 70.4% in the second half of their retirement, 87-54 Arizona Thursday night in reaching 64.3% in the first half Saturday. Arizona State was held at 20% (5 of 25) in the first half, 22.8% General and committed 21 turnovers.

Cardinal led to 11-0 only 5: 25 in the game and five of the six first shots created - three of these baskets by Ogwumike. Stanford scored 26 points in the paint in the first half and 48 overall, while a 40-28 advantage rebound.

Arizona State missed the 10 first shots, including five 3-point attempts before Markisha Patterson long at 12: 13. Sun Devils 35 points were more than the authorized total lower Stanford — 34 Washington State, February 8, 2007 - on a Conference opponent.

Stanford is 29-1 all-time at home against the State of Arizona, lone loss of cardinal come March 3, 1984.

Saturday saw a relatively quiet day on campus after the Orange Bowl-winning coach Jim Harbaugh for a five year contract with the NFL San Francisco 49ers Friday abandoned, although that Orange Bowl victory parade was scheduled for later in the afternoon on a street people in headquarters in Palo Alto.

Walker jump throws UConn Huskies on Texas 82-81 in OT (AP)

AUSTIN, Texas-for 40 minutes, Texas make life difficult for the scorer of the nation.

Overtime, however, was time Kemba Walker.

Walker made a desperate routines-hip 3-pointer, and then nailed the winning game about 15 metres with 5 seconds in overtime Saturday at elevator No.. Connecticut 8-81-82 tough on no. 12 Longhorns win.

"I felt like I owed my team," Walker said of his efforts to extend. "I felt as I get my shot and make it."

Walker, who came on average points 26.1, finished with 22 against Texas on 8-of-27 shooting. He scored seven in overtime. 3-Pointer came with one second left on the clock and put the Huskies ahead 80-77.

Walker "I threw it up," said: "and God was my side".

Texas (12-3) had a last chance to win, but after receiving the ball at midcourt and appellant timeout, freshman Cory Joseph juggled the inbound pass and an attempt to 3 points on the buzzer missed. Joseph had the conquest turned in the final seconds to beat North Carolina, earlier this season.

Alex Oriaki had a record 21 career rebounds for Connecticut (12-2), focus and that Texas on shutdown Walker to score 42 points in the paint. Huskies ending also 27-home game winning streak of the Longhorns against opponents non-conférence.

Jordan Hamilton and VANOC I Brown each registered 20 points to Texas five players in double figures. Hamilton has the Longhorns head before winning game of Walker.

Guard Dogus Balbay, if effectively in effort defensive on Walker in regulation, said hesitant contest winner, shooting because he was called for an offence against Walker at the previous games. He raised a hand but Walker has shot him.

"I tried my best and it struck, said Balbay."

UConn Huskies blew a chance to win the game in the regulations. Oriaki blocked a shot by Gary Johnson of the Texas and Roscoe Smith grabbed the rebound with about 11 seconds left. Instead of maintaining the ball for a last shot, Smith has launched a wild crosscourt tir in all areas and Texas pep band sailed.

Giving to the Longhorns ball with 7.5 seconds to play, but Brown failed to send the game into overtime.

"It was just a mistake," said UConn Huskies Shabazz Napier. "Everyone said,' Oh God, roscoe. "»

Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun called the Huskies win best of the season.

"Yes, we beat Michigan State and Kentucky," Calhoun said. (But) we held our own on the shelves and we abandoned our way through it. This as a big game. »

With Texas-based busstop Walker took the Huskies looks much easier shots close basket. Huskies tours only 38 percent for the game but a offensive 23 rebounds and registered 24 second-chance points.

"In my mind, I like playing through clearly, they got," Texas coach Rick Barnes said. "Defensively, we did good things... but if you specify 23 offensive rebounds, you cannot feel good about it."

Walker Texas held scoreless for the first 17 minutes and headed by a whopping 9 points late in the first half. Connecticut rallies to second highest game within and Napier of three 3-point shootout.

And Walker, as frustrated that he was in the first half, to continue working for his shot.

Connecticut held his largest lead on 68-59 in the second half, ready Walker Cup and Napier stacking is a 3 pointer.

"Kemba Walker is Kemba Walker and it goes to a game, said Calhoun.

Texas fought back to lead reduced to 70-69 in the Bank of Thompson Tristan shot with 2: 36 to play. Hamilton blew a dunk on a fast break, but the Longhorns won lead, jumper short of Brown before the teams of the end of regulation related to 73.

When it comes to the last seconds of overtime, there was little doubt that the ball is in the hands of Walker.

I've seen that shot so many times, "said Calhoun. "You can in an entire game and Kemba will win, and it was just a big-time win."

Georgia disrupts No.. Kentucky (AP) Thompkins 25 10

Athens, GA-Trey Thompkins scored 25 points and the upset No. Georgia. 10 Kentucky 77-70 on Saturday, pulling away for his ninth consecutive victory.

The Bulldogs (12-2) stamped himself as a competitor in the Southeastern Conference opener alignment a seven consecutive victories by the Wildcats (12-3, 0-1) in the largest two-year coach Mark Fox victory.

Thompkins hitting a helping hand with 2: 40 remaining base key. The ball seemed to come up short, but it crawled onto the edge of the Georgia a 66-59 lead after an 11-point halftime advantage had wasted.

Then captured Bulldogs the on the line, hit 11 of 12 shots and Kentucky lack beyond the arc of the 3-point taken in a vain attempt to catch up.

Terrence Jones led Kentucky with 24 points, but three teammates who, in the last minutes. Wildcats tours only 38% better total field of the second emplacement of the season, nearly 10 points below their average.

Thompkins had lots of help on the offensive end. Gerald Robinson added 17 points, Travis Leslie 15 and 10 true Dustin.

The Georgia began the game quickly, marking the first seven points and ended at the opening on half a mark of 13-4. Robinson has precipitated a couple of shots with 14 seconds, the Bulldogs to dressing rooms with a 41-30 advance that corresponds to the larger half.

The Wildcats struggling with their shooting games. Coach John Calipari kept rubbing his hair in frustration and screamed at Deandre Liggins, after he put in an attempt to 3 points for a long time from the top of the key which clanked off the coast of the border.

Kentucky had a promising stretch, eradication of the Georgia on the head with a thrust of 11-0 at the beginning of the second half. Liggins made a couple of shots with 12 1/2 minutes to equalize the mark at 47. The single Wildcats, 56-55 lead came game of Jones three points with something more than 10 minutes from the end.

Fox tore his coat and threw in his Chair after an offensive foul against his team.

But true replied with a 3-pointer which recovered Georgia on head and Leslie shots with 6: 47 left the Bulldogs come to stay.

Doron Lamb scored 18 points for Kentucky before fouling. Brandon Knight has added 10. Darius Miller and Liggins also leaking.

Georgia at the beginning of the strong drawn sellout crowds first season at Stegeman Coliseum, and unlike previous years, it was not necessary to fill the stands of blue. Only a handful of Kentucky fans were visible in usually red dressed crowd, while many others roamed around of the exterior of the building in a futile search for tickets.

Cubs complete trade for Matt Garza (AP)

Chicago's CHICAGO Cubs acquired right-handed Matt Garza of the Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday in a trade of eight players.

The 27-year old Garza threw a hitter against Detroit last season, he 15-10 with a 3.91 when era. He spent his first two seasons in the major league with the twins and the last three with rays.

Garza joins the Cubs with fielder Fernando Perez and won Zachary Rosscup.

Jets get two cubs top prospects, right-handed Chris Archer, 15-game winner in two minor league stops season last and 20 years of shortstop Hak - Ju Lee. Including those of Chicago at Tampa Bay are catcher Robinson Chirinos and outfielders Sam Fuld and Brandon Guyer.

Garza, who in 2008 ALCS MVP when he won two races was like the Jets advanced to the World Series, joins a rotation Carlos Zambrano and Ryan Dempster is already included.

Garza is 42-44 with six games complete a contract amounted to 3.97 era in the outputs of the League major 121, 118 as a launcher with twins and rays.

Perez spent part of two seasons in the majors with rays (2008-09) and career. 234 Angels with good speed and unique flying ability. He spent last season at Triple-a.

Archer for 22 years has 15-3 in 28 games between Single-A Daytona and Tennessee double-A last season. He was resumed by the Cubs in the framework of the Trade Mark DeRosa Cleveland December 31, 2008.

Lee, who beat. 282-Peoria Single - A last season, originally signed with the Cubs as a non-drafted free agent on March 29, 2008. The Cubs already have for their future in Starlin young Dominican player is Castro.

Garza, who last season 3. 35 million, is the last player to leave the shelves. He will be reunited with Carlos Peno, who previously for a 10 million, has accepted the one year contract with the Cubs first baseman. Among others who left Tampa Bay fielder Carl Crawford, only a $ 142 million, seven-year Récupérée de Boston contract, and analgesic Joaquin Benoit, who obtained a 16.5 million, three-year deal with Detroit.

Evernham to Hendrick company (AP)

CHARLOTTE, NC - former NASCAR Ray Evernham team leader has signed as a consultant for a company of Rick Hendrick van.

Evernham won three Championships in the 1990s as team leader for Jeff Gordon with Hendrick Motorsports. Now his Ray Evernham business society, to consult on special projects for Hendrick enterprises.

"Hendrick Performance parts and a racing pedigree will have cars and Ray is someone who will ensure that our customers and resellers", Hendrick said Tuesday.

It brought together a large group of people as REE, and I see a lot of opportunities for them to be a valuable resource for our Organization on such projects. I know the type of standards that Ray. »

Rick Hendrick formed Hendrick enterprises in 2005 to control strategic initiatives. Evernham role will be to help the development of the brand of retail performance high performance parts Hendrick vehicles, related products and services.

"Rick and I have lots of conversations over the years for our passion projects, and there are so many crossover with what we enjoy working," said Evernham. "We want a chance to do unique things, whatsoever with execution and parts of cars, dealer company or other ways to build brand Hendrick."

Evernham dropped to the Hendrick organization in 1999 its own forms of NASCAR team. More recently, he was an analyst for ESPN television.

The network said that evernham leaves ESPN for its new role with Hendrick.

"Ray is a valuable member of our team in NASCAR for the past three seasons, and wish him the best in his new role," said Rich Feinberg, Vice President for ESPN sports car ".

"If he wants to go back ever, we'd like to speak with him".

Lakers F Barnes sprains right knee against the Hornets (AP)

LOS ANGELES Lakers before Matt Barnes sprained right knee in the victory of Los Angeles on the New Orleans Hornets Friday night and coach Phil Jackson feared that the damage can be severe.

Barnes was wounded during the second quarter when he landed awkwardly after Jarrett Jack fight for a rebound. Barnes has spun into the air while attempting to control the ball with one arm, eventually come hard on his right leg.

Barnes will have an MRI Saturday to the extent of his injury. Jackson said he was "concerned" Barnes health.

"I will do an MRI, and then we will set up a timetable," Barnes said while walking from Staples Center after the competition. "Once you run can, it is a good sign... so just keep hope."

Barnes had two points in 10 minutes in the first half, but with 5: 22 left in the second quarter of the Lakers 101 - 97 win extract.

Barnes is an average of 7. 5 points and 4.9 rebounds in his first season with the Lakers, these valuable minutes as a backup to low score starter Ron Artest.

Backup leader Steve Blake was also injured his left ankle in the fourth quarter, but Jackson did not believe that the injury was serious. Blake also Staples Center walk without assistance.

Asia lasts 6-2 d'avance sur l'Europe Royal trophy (PA)

HUA HIN, Thailand-Asia has swept all the series of four in the fourballs Saturday to build a 6-2 lead Europe in match play golf tournament Royal trophy in three days.

Asia needs only 2 1/2 points eight hits games Sunday to win the Black Mountain Golf Club.

Locked at 2-2, Asia dominated the fourballs with evil Europe.

Team Thai-Japanese Thongchai Jaidee and Yuta Ikeda Peter Hanson and Andersson Hed Frédéric de Sweden beat in the final day, led by three rows, with one hole to play.

Ikeda, who won four titles for tour of the Japan in 2010, struck four birdies in the first nine holes and also had birdies on RDV 10 and 11.

Ryo Ishikawa and Shunsuke Sonoda fighting Italian teenager Matteo Manassero and Spain Pablo Martin 3 and 2.

"We have good teamwork, said Sonoda." If I've missed it (Ishikawa), and when he failed, I do. »

Zeev Milkha Singh recovered from a wound on the back for a 1 - up win with new partner Kim Kyung-tae Korea in South Swedish pair Henrik Stenson and Johan Edfors single game that went to the last hole.

Edfors 17 missed a putt short, wasting a chance at the same competition.

Liang Wenchong and Noh Seung-yul of Korea in southern China remained unbeaten in Europe Captain Colin Montgomerie and Rhys-Davies, Wales, 5 and 4.

Title game WBC Hopkins-Pascal ordered (AFP)

NEW YORK (AFP)--World Boxing Council officials ordered a revenge Canada Jean Pascal and American Bernard Hopkins, whose oldest boxing champion of the world bid ended in controversy signs last month.

Sanctioning bodies President Jose Sulaiman sent a letter to the two camps ordering a rematch of a regular combat 18 December in the town of Quebec, instead of defending the title Pascal against U.S. fighter Chad Dawson.

«WBC Board of Governors has voted in favour of ordering the immediate revenge,» writes Sulaiman. "The winner of this fight has an obligation to combat Chad Dawson immediately without intermediate contest".

Nine days before his 46th birthday, Hopkins was given a second chance to the oldest major world champion in boxing history, a brand that now we heavyweight Legend George Foreman belongs.

The foreman was 10 months beyond of its 45th anniversary when he loved Michael Moorer in 1994 for the World Boxing Association and the International Boxing Federation title hit.

Hopkins was pleased to the decision of the WBCS.

"I would like Jose Sulaiman and WBC Board of Governors to order an immediate contrast between Pascal and me," says Hopkins.

"It is a great thing for boxing and I hope that his fans to another great fight with Pascal and I get to see." I am curious about the new year begins with the history as the oldest athlete to win a major championship in each sport. »

After combat, Hopkins, who enjoys a mighty reign 10 years as a champion of the average weight of the world in a 22 year career, stated that his victory legitimate and places it in the history of the struggle was stolen by the judges.

It was certainly enough robbery." "And it is wrong of the sport," said Hopkins after the draw. "One of the reasons for the States combatants does to fight outside of the country is such a thing." "I know that I won the fight."

An American judge gave Hopkins a victory of 114-112 on Pascal while Canadian and Belgian judges fight a tie by 113-113 and 114-114 respectively give a record of 26-1-1 scored while that Hopkins-51-5 with two derived from Pascal.

"If this guy has a backbone and the want to walk with any type of dignity and self-esteem, is the only thing he can beat me again,"said Hopkins after combat."

"If I were, I know it's the only way I could actually live with myself."

Pascal, 28, was only six years old when Hopkins was professional in 1988.

Hopkins and Pascal developers have 30 days a contract or a grant offer will be ordered.

5 Barcelona Messi, Iniesta help send clear (AFP)

MADRID (AFP) - Lionel Messi and Andrés Iniesta finalists Golden Ball scored a goal each as world champions, Barcelona continued their impeccable balance, with a 4-0 at Deportivo La Coruna win Saturday at five points clear of Real Madrid.

Messi curved upward in a great big left early in the second half of his 18th season championship goal, winning the Spanish world Iniesta Cup a sensational fine individual goal scored that Barcelona is a perfect nine WINS on the road.

David Villa and Pedro Rodriguez Spanish internationals were also target as Barcelona a 12th consecutive League victory put pressure on rivals Real Madrid, set beat Villarreal in the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday.

Barcelona have all three finalists for the Golden Ball award 2010, with the winner will be announced on Monday.

"We do not know who will win the Golden Ball but it was a victory of Barcelona, said Villa."

"We have to just wait Monday, but we are proud that three finalists."

The other finalist, Spanish International Xavi Hernandez, collaborates with fellow first-trip rested Dani Alves and Sergi Busquets as Manager of Pep Guardiola turned his team for what their third game in seven intensive days.

Villa isn't final assembly of the fact Golden Ball, it is a revelation in his first season in Barcelona and 40 million signing of Valencia opened the score on 26 minutes.

Messi has fed Villa with a clever pass and the striker shot by the custodian of the legs to give visitors a well deserved lead.

Iniesta produced a sublime pass on 37 minutes and French full back Eric Abidal, who scored his first Barcelona goal Cup King midweek, he had his first thinking Championship goal is marked for the club, but was refused by an offside flag.

Six minutes of the second half lined with Barca Messi drive with a coup franc sensational than Daniel Aranzubía only able to watch and admire the guardian.

Messi was pulled down, just outside of the penalty area and he himself has dusted with precise curl Frank around the wall and in the upper left corner.

78 Minutes was tour de Iniesta show why it is envisaged for the title of the Golden breast ball to cut the right flank of the curling a fine shot in the corner.

Two minutes later Pedro he was 4-0 for given Barcelona Dutch international midfielder Ibrahim Afellay his premier league following its transfer window move from PSV Eindhoven.

Champions League hopes Sevilla have continued their perfect 2011 starting when Mali attacking Diallo twice in a return-shaped 3 - 2 win at Real Sociedad scored.

"Frederic was excellent and it is brilliant for us, said Sevilla coach Gregorio Manzano." "" "It brings a lot of different qualities.

Two goals in as many minutes turned the game a fined for Kanouté, after 63 minutes and Brazilian striker Luis Fabiano, in proceedings, which in fact a perfect two League receives two in the new year of Sevilla, passing in the ninth five points from the first four.

It was a third victory in the seven days before the side Manzano, who had beaten Osasuna 1-0 to Championship Sunday before grinding Malaga 3-0 in the King's Cup on Wednesday to reach the quarterfinals of the game 8-3 on aggregate.

Edgar canned UFC light heavyweight belt with signs (AP)

LAS VEGAS-Frankie Edgar retains its light UFC 125 title fights drawing controversial with Maynard on Saturday night at MGM Grand grey.

"A fight ends in a draw is bitter," said Edgar. "You do not win, but you do not lose."

Maynard Edgar sent on the www at the beginning of the fight with a heavy left and was champion in problems in the first round, but Edgar overcame the damage and counter in the next three towers.

"I hit with a big shot, but I plump and returned," said Edgar.

One judge scored 48-46 in Maynard, another had 48-46 for Edgar and the third called it even.

All three judges scored first round 10-8 for Maynard.

"I thought it would be stopped in the first," said Maynard, as hard in the last round. "I left him as five times." It was everywhere. »

Edgar beats BJ Penn for the belt in April and retains title in an immediate match.

Edgar asked he would fight new Maynard.

"Yes, I probably would have," said Edgar. "It was a victory over me and we now have a tie, but I will do what the UFC wants to do me."

In the case of co-main, Brian Stann stopped Chris Leben at 3: 37 in the first round.

Inward, Thiago Silva outpointed unanimously Brandon Vera, Dong Hyun Kim stayed undefeated by a unanimous on Nate Diaz and Clay Guida won his third consecutive victory, submitting pride champion Takanori light with a constriction Gomiby guillotine in cycle 3.

Sparan of dolphins to contract to receive extension (AP)

DAVIE, Florida - Tony Sparano stared in overbearing space, tapping his foot and chewing gum.

CEO of Miami Dolphins Jeff Ireland is also an expression dark, his cheeks look like clumsy details were discussed.

Stephen Ross team owner sitting between them, sweat shine above of his upper lip while trying to put red lipstick on a pig of a week for the dolphins.

They have done to combat damage Saturday, a press conference extraordinary announce a Sparano - two-year contract extension and acknowledging errors when dealing with team coaching situation.

"Lines of communication should be treated differently," said Ireland.

"Now" Ross said, "" I would go about it another way.""

Ross and the Ireland flew in California for an interview Thursday with Stanford Jim Harbaugh coach, make the Sparano in limbo very public. Negotiations broke off the coast, Harbaugh took a job with the 49ers and Ross decided to hold Sparano.

Ross, who has taken dolphin, two years ago said that he had never interviewed a coach before and naive thinking that it might have been meet Harbaugh confidentiality.

"I would probably let Tony knows," said Ross. "" "" I never thought it would be national news. I realized after reading the documents of the fear that I had taken by Tony. It is probably a mistake on my part to not think about that when you do something like that, is public. »

Ross, Ireland and said Sparano had recovered damages relationships, but their body language and proposed another behavior.

Sit down at the end of a long table of 40 members of media, did not consider as a whole. Ross has the greater part of the conversation and sometimes laughing, while Sparano and rigid Ireland with the kind of expressions sitting of common dolphins on secondary school during their season collapse.

However, everyone says things, including Sparano on his week of uncertainty. He said that it was difficult to not only for themselves, but for its players and assistant coaches and their families.

"I have had many different emotions," he said. "Frustration bubbles on a few times when there is uncertainty."

"We are now in a place of fun, and we will do the best job we can do things."

With enlargement, Sparano under contract to 2013 and changes will be this shoulder limited to its roster and personnel. Offensive coordinator Dan Henning, on the one hand, the authorization.

"The focus will be on the attack - an exciting violation more aggressive attack, creative," Ross said. "" "" I will deliver a winner. This is my commitment. »

Sparano is a winner as a first step, makers of dolphins as AFC East 2008 for his first season as an NFL coach. He went 7-9 each of the past two seasons but the team has been terrible in the last weeks of 2010.

Behind Ross solutions to consider. But he said that no organization has been in contact with Bill Cowher or Jon Gruden, despite speculation that Miami might be interesting in both.

And while that dolphins short of Harbaugh, Ross refused to make an offer.

"We did our due diligence in an attempt to this organization," said Ireland, reading a statement. "The beginning and end of all, I think Tony Sparano as coach for this team right." I always felt that this has never changed. »

Ireland and Sparano, said they will continue to have a good relationship. It dates back eight years, when the two were with the Dallas Cowboys.

"Jeff and I have agreed to do not a lot of time of agreement," Sparano said. "It is sometimes smoke from this Office." If it does not exist, it is not healthy. It should arrive.

"At the end of this thing, give us will be Dungeon and it will be fine. We will try to bring together the best for this franchise. This is how it should be--together. "

Speaking notes, began to Ross, the press conference of 35 minutes with an 18-minute statement which recounted the events of the week. Monday meeting agenda after dolphins their season at New England 38-7, lost Ross Sparano, a detailed plan of shoulder season changes are saved.

"Just because you have a plan, there is still a few frustrations", said Ross. "It does not relieve the pain."

During the night, met in Ross Harbaugh first Orange Bowl game. Andrew Luck threw four touchdown passes and Stanford won to finish a season 12-1.

Ross said that he found attractive Harbaugh partly because they both alumni of Michigan and decided their meeting in California.

"It is probably the hottest product in America today in terms of fighting spirit," said Ross.

But in the course of their conversation, Ross said, he decided to keep Sparano.

"You're not just change for change", said Ross.

Rather than propose any Harbaugh employment, Ross said, he gave advice.

"Harbaugh wanted to go to the NFL, but he wasn't exactly sure." He asked me: "what should I do? I recommended, ' return to Stanford and you hitch to the quarterback. You have the best quarterback. You can win the National Championship. The pros will be y. ""

On the flight by night, from California to Florida, Ross attempted Sparano calling with the new, no there is no change in coaching. But Sparano had disabled his phone and go to bed.

Meanwhile, the new leaks to the media.

"I wake up the next morning and my players text messages 31, Sparano was.

They sent congratulations.

APNewsBreak: IOC weighs offers from American television for Olympics 4 (AP)

London-ESPN, Fox and other major candidates for the television rights to American interests to buy a set of four Olympic Games instead of the usual two-games go, the head of the IOC showed negotiator says Associated Press.

The International Olympic Committee had planned to the auction as lucrative rights to the Olympic Winter Games 2014 in Sochi, Russia and summer at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

But Richard Carrion, Member of the IOC Executive Board the responsible for the dissemination of the U.S. deals, said that the Committee is now weighing the possibility of extending the high-stakes bid 2018 and 2020 summer Olympic Winter. For these games host cities are not selected.

Carrión said all likely contenders - ESPN, NBC and Fox, with a potential bid by CBS and Turner - approached the IOC on the four-game option. Two games in the package to add could bring the total rights, more than 4 billion.

ESPN and Fox was one of outright for a four-game deal, another Olympic official told the AP. the official spoke on condition of anonymity because details of the negotiations have not been made public.

Carrión said that it was in favour of the idea, that should be discussed at the meetings of the Board of Directors of IOC in Lausanne, Switzerland, next week.

Carrión said "We are aware that it is an important decision, go for one of these guys," in a telephone interview. "We want to make sure they have their best and highest (bids)." I would certainly support if they want to go with four games and all the way up to 2020. »

ESPN declined to comment on his interest in the call for tenders for four games, but Josh Krulewitz spokesman said: "we're also interested in rights Olympics and plan an aggressive offers this sense of affairs for ESPN fact." Fox declined comment.

The IOC has U.S. negotiations delayed over a year because of the unfavourable economic conditions and declining market advertising rights. Carrión said that the IOC is preparing now to continue the auction in the first half of the year.

"It seems it's something that should probably in the second quarter of the year not happen", he said. "We see many more optimism that we have seen in some time." The U.S. economy appears to be off the coast of positive signals. It certainly ours to begin to prepare. »

Costs of rights TV has provided much of the revenues of the IOC, share accounts of the U.S. for more than half of the total. About half of the money goes to the host cities, the rest being distributed on the IOC, the international federations and national Olympic committees.

Carrión said the big players have any interest in obtaining the rights to at least the Sochi and Rio de Janeiro games. The IOC has been also waiting to see if a "non-traditional bidder" entered the fray. Carrion is already the case for Time Warner, which is a first approach with CBS for rights for 2010 and 2012 Olympics but stopped games before the final offer.

In this auction, in 2003, NBC and its parent company, General Electric outbid ESPN and Fox for the rights of 2010 and 2012 - an agreement valued at $ 2.2 billion. NBC 2 billions of dollars spent on your direct rights fees and GE signed title global sponsor.

If the IOC decides to 2020 rights to sell and sell auctions over the next six months, networks will offer two Olympic Games without knowing where they will be held.

2018 Host is chosen by the IOC in July of three candidates - Annecy, France. Munich; and Pyeongchang, South Korea. 2020 Open tender process vote later this year, with the host in 2013. Submissions are expected in South Africa, Italy and possibly Japan, Spain and the Middle East.

Canadian member of the IOC Dick pound, the former negotiator of the Commission we TV, rights said the financial sense of four-game package to networks as a long-term investment.

"With 2014 and" 16 sites of higher risk, it may be preferable for networks to draw on the investment and hope back win, "said book, noting the 2018 games will be in Europe or in Korea in the South and the 2020 Olympic Games could be in Rome." ""There is no reason that it won't happen if the agreement does make sense and adequate financial support. »

Multi-Games offers are created before.

In 1995, NBC acquired the rights to five of the Olympic Games from 2000 to 2008 in a couple of trafficking 3.5 billion. These negotiations took place in secret, without other networks have the opportunity.

Current competitors should be willing to bid sealed bids billion financial climate uncertain. NBC reported losses of $ 223 million last year, the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia Colombia.

Carrion expected costs higher for the Olympic Games in 2014 and 2016 the previous $ 2 billion.

"No doubt" he said. "We believe that this is a fantastic event." Although more than a product, is - something that everyone watching. It is a unique event. We want to make sure that the value of the rights that we believe are important. »

Pound, involved no longer human trafficking, said that the IOC should assess whether the networks sufficiently long-term support from their parent companies.

"They financial heft to stay there for eight years and honour the hundreds of millions of dollars of promises." Pound said. "It would certainly be very risky for the IOC broadcast partner go belly up."

The IOC preparing even before with NBC in the midst of a takeover by cable TV giant Comcast Corp. the deal, was the subject of the investigation, regulations must be approved by the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice at the beginning of this year. Comcast may obtain a majority stake in NBC Universal from GE.

Comcast isn't clear Olympic intentions.

"They will certainly have their say, the owner of the majority," said carrion. "It's a big, big decision for them, absolutely."

Carrión said the auction "seems" in the previous round, as submitted networks sealed bidding at the IOC headquarters in Lausanne.

___

AP sports writer Rachel Cohen in New York contributed to this report.

Cubs Garza of beams in multiplayer deal (Reuters)

CHICAGO (Reuters) - the Chicago Cubs acquired right-handed Matt Garza in a multiplayer trade with Tampa Bay Rays on Saturday.

Garza, who was the first member of the jets to launch a hitter when he Tigers of Detroit last season, deleted, is the centerpiece of the eight player agreement also saw fielder Fernando Perez and left-handed pitcher Zachary Rosscup at Chicago.

Edited by Tampa are perspective right-handed Chris Archer, catcher Robinson Chirinos, player Hak - Ju Lee and Sam Fuld and Brandon Guyer outfielders.

"It is not every day a launcher of big game of Prime Minister and proven in his first becomes available, and we couldn't be happier Matt Garza add to our staff Launcher," General Cubs Manager Jim Hendry said.

"It is impossible to acquire a launcher of the calibre of Matt and does not give some quality talent and Tampa Bay Lightning acquires certainly solid prospects in this agreement.

"But Matt brings a huge arm to help strengthen rotation Launcher formidable, not only for 2011, but for years to come also.

Garza posted a record of the season last 15-10, with a 34-31 and 3.91 era in 95 games big league in the past three years, but is also a proven artist off-season.

The 27 - year - old right-handed earned American League Championship Series most valuable player honors in 2008, the rays world series.

(Written by Steve Keating in Indianapolis; editing by Steve Ginsburg)

Dolphins agreement new deal with coach Sparano (Reuters)

DAVIE, Florida (Reuters) - the Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano awarded two-year contract extension Saturday him with the team until the end of the year 2013 will keep.

Dolphins have 7-9, the AFC East and missed the playoffs for the second consecutive year in coach.

After a week of media intense speculation about the future, owner of Ross Stephen Sparano whom he had met at Stanford head coach Jim Harbaugh.

He refused however to Ross, who said that meeting caused Sparano "fear" that the dolphins work offered on Friday named the San Francisco 49ers coach Harbaugh at.

Ross, "never did that," told journalists. "We realized that we had Tony man."

Ross said he was "naive" could be the last week and added that he expected Harbaugh meeting who was generally regarded as the hottest property in University football, waves.

"I never thought it would be national news." I would probably let Tony knows. "It was a mistake on my part," says the owner.

"I did have not spoken with coach until I decided that I want to change."

A clear pain Sparano, periods of watch off with an expression sets Saturday pass, said it is difficult to keep track of its staff up to date with the events had been.

"I have a lot of responsibilities, I have approximately 16 coaches, their families, my own family and about 60 players," said.

Sparano said that after the news of Ross met Harbaugh, he turned off his phone during the night of waking up to approximately 30 messages text in support of its players and one of the owner that he kept his job.

The coach said that now is the time to implement a stronger team.

"I always say the players — when we here are not place us debt." This is not what we are trying to do. Solve us problems, "he said."

(Editing by Tony Jimenez)

West Virginia at the top of Georgetown 13 65-59 (AP)

WASHINGTON-Casey Mitchell has 28 points, and West Virginia has forced Saturday, 18 of turnover by taking advantage of another game satisfying high Georgetown seniors for no. 13 Hoyas 65-59 victory.

Mitchell had his best game of the Big East, but for what is already a season of the spark plug for the senior, whose average rating increases by 3.7 points season 17.6 last this season. The National Junior College Athletic Association player of the year at the 2009 Chipola College, Mitchell has 10 of 19 of the field, including 4 7 3-point range.

Kevin Jones added 15 points for climbers (10 - 4, 2-2) in a game revenge of Big East championship tournament last year, won by West Virginia - 60-58.

Jason Clark scored 16 points to lead Hoyas (12 - 4, 1-3), taking their worst start since season 2003-2004, the Big East Craig Esherick last as coach.

The question of Georgetown continues the ongoing recession by Austin Freeman and Chris Wright. Freeman was in the first half for the first time this season without victory and finished with 11 points on shooting 3 8, whereas was 3 Wright 13 - including 1 of 7-3 points - and ends with nine points and five turnovers.

There are 31 of total turnover in a game which, at 1100 hours on end, and no team led by more than seven points. But the grip of the mountaineers by dominating offensive boards. Virginia outrebounded Georgetown 32-23, 15-4 on the offensive glass.

The undeniable star was Mitchell. There in Virginia lead in the second half when he took a stream, polluted and in a layup that bounced around from iron launched before the fall. He went for a set of three-point shots.

A steal and layup to convert into another set of three points - display climbers lead - in half. He partnered with Freeman in a temporary battle fire at 3-points as the level of teams.

Virginia took the lead for good on 3-pointer Jones with 6: 50 to play, but the game was in doubt until the last minute. With lead by three climbers made Jones one defensive stop to force Clark to rotate the ball in the basket.

Freeman has committed a turnover of possession next Georgetown and three shots by Darryl Bryant in the last seconds 30 loans of victory.

Crosby of the Penguins of rest with concussion (AP)

Captain of Pittsburgh PITTSBURGH Penguins Sidney Crosby is still hampered by a concussion and will not resume practice or play up to this that asymptomatic.

Crosby took place to skate pre-game for Saturday evening of penguins game against Minnesota, the second set of law he missed. NHL striker also shouldn't play Monday or Wednesday against Boston to Montreal.

Crosby absorbed a blind side hit over the head of capitals David Steckel Winter Classic outdoor game on 1 January, but initially only neck pain felt. He started feeling worse Wednesday, but tonight played against Tampa Bay and by the lightning of Victor Hedman boards head first has been conducted.

"You're much beaten with hockey and your neck pain." It is fairly typical, "said Crosby Saturday." Wednesday when he has started to have more in my head and I felt a bit, it's where I saw the red flag. »

Crosby the game finished and flew to Montreal the night team. When its State is not improving it in Pittsburgh back Thursday for further research.

Crosby said that her condition is approximately the same as it was on Wednesday. He believes that it is his first commotion.

Penguins coach Dan Bylsma said that Crosby would not play Wednesday if there was an indication that he had a concussion.

"There is not one that we are on the ice, which would symptoms of concussion." We were aware of the symptoms and our doctors, "a Bylsma said." "" It was not within the Tampa Bay game with all the symptoms that we tested were linked to a concussion. »

Bylsma said initially Crosby would be about one week, but that could change.

"It's one of those things where everyone heals and reacts differently," said Crosby. "It's just one of these things, you have to wait." It is not as easy as vacation or something that they really are you a (reliable) calendar. There are certain steps you take, and it is obviously very sensitive. You always want to make sure that you take your time and hopefully things are better sooner rather than later. »

Crosby has only one point since December 28, assistance on Wednesday, but a leader NHL 66 points (32 goals, aid 34 in).

For the 4-3 OT win Island hang on avalanches (AP)

DENVER-John Tavares scored the winner 3: 52 into overtime and Kevin Poulin stopped 34 shots in his first game of the NHL, removal of the New York Islanders to a 4-3 win over the Colorado Avalanche Saturday.

Jeremy Colliton Blake Comeau scored twice and a goal that the Islanders won for the fourth time in five games.

Tavares cross in front of the Internet and put a shot on Craig Anderson to the goal of the wrist.

He came moments after the avalanche with 4 seconds remaining in regulation tied when Milan Hejduk sent a shot from the side. This is the second objective of Hejduk from playing.

Colliton played in his first game of the season for New York after being called in Eve. He had a goal of career entering the contest, but he scored twice on the power play.

Poulin is unstable at the beginning, giving quick goals to celebrate the victory and David Koci just 1: 47 in the competition. But he governed from here, the team with the highest fourth score check until the end objective Hejduk with Anderson for an extra skater fired.

On a 20-year-old come big on a power in the middle of the third period when play slap shot for it John-Michael Liles deflected with his path of the clamp and then celebrate victory prevented sneak in a loose puck by his left leg paste.

It is this kind of afternoon for the avalanche which are cooled as it was a six consecutive wins aligned, ranging from 2-6-1.

After the avalanche tracking ahead by 2-0 to 2 minutes, the Islanders opening stormed Colliton and Comeau scored each on sets of powers in the first period.

Avalanche had almost flawless lately in the murder of sanctions — 20 21 on the five latest games, but three obtained in New York.

Islanders have new solid in this area, with their drag to keep a goal from game power in five games. They have straight sanctions 13 killed during this stretch.

Poulin descended to a rocky start as he went to two quick goals. Hejduk registered 45 seconds, more to start a game of Colorado, this season and Koci another 1: 02 added later.

But he stopped Poulin paid in 10 shots in the first period and a further 11 in the second, including that it stifles the puck just before the laminate in the target. A quick review confirmed the decision on the ice.

Poulin was recalled on January 4, after Rick DiPietro adductor injury of Bridgeport of the American Hockey League. Poulin debuted Thursday night, when he was called up to games Nathan Lawson and 19 shots it is arrested in 54 minutes.

Performance earn him departure against helped Colorado, especially with the team Sunday game in Chicago finally a road swing 11 days, five games.

Comments: Avs begin to return to health if F Chris Stewart (left hand) has again started skating and D Kyle Cumiskey (concussion) has been authorized to practice with the team. ... AVS F Cody McLeod sitting for the ninth time in 10 games due to an injury occurs. ... Islanders V Frans Nielsen (groin) missed a second set of law.

Federer Awesome China the third Qatar Open (AFP)

DOHA (AFP) - Roger Federer has developed its determination to hang at the Australia Open, as when he swept Nikolay Davydenko back to win the Qatar Crown open on Saturday.

Last year the Russia beat the Swiss model en route to the title.

This time world number two Federer stunned the defending champion, which had developed the seed high Rafael Nadal in the semi-finals on Friday, 6 - 3, 6-4, at the end of the conquest of the trophy without dropping a set.

It is dynamic, coherent and keen to take its 67th and third career title in Doha.

"This is fantastic," said Federer.

"I have a good week." I appreciate the support that obtain here. I have a good preparation. I can't believe that I am already this year on the Board of Directors.

"It was a strong tournament and I look forward to the rest of the season."

When Davydenko Federer here broke last year, had it long step from the biggest victory of his career - win the end of ATP Championships of the year title in London, and he was still on a high emotional.

This time there is a season where he has a permanent wrist injury fought and slid top 20 of the world of the ITU for the first time in more than five years.

Davydenko resembles playing to a high standard of ten, and after that a victory over Nadal ill is endowed, however, was clearly wants to make a sort of a brand.

But it was difficult to do so.

Federer started excellent, not only because it is an immediate psychological benefit with a break at the beginning and advance 3-0 picked up, but because he started in high pressure tackles immediately.

Return blocked, segments and inclusion rally have been replaced by taking risks that Federer wants to make something as a prototype for a change of emphasis in its attitude of his 30 years.

Soon, he concluded that, on this occasion that his time more than nick good enough to achieve this goal and four heavy attacks, with a volleyball, two discs of forehand, backhand was broken Davydenko was love.

Even if it meant more time diving around retrieve that he really likes the Russian liked to be in the fight with three holds serve with always compelling research Federer.

About one third of these Davydenko could save six set points, four of them with excellent service, but that was his brave Report earned briefly.

Federer has ended the game with a service of the power station and easy weight, relaxing and so lazy walk already had another two gears in reserve.

Davydenko was able to refute this image by twisting themselves even harder.

There is more at ease in the second round and twice restless Federer in the sixth game, first ride hard and early enough to have him forcing defense, then descend to a decrease of downed Federer and challenge plants as well as Grand Slam-holder of record

But it just was so far. The key thrust came in the ninth game when Federer such cracking backhand winner down the line who Davydenko felt the pressure reached double faulted for love-40.

Federer has immediately took this chance and finished the game without chichi 10 points in a row to win.

"I found a good pace," he said. "Yes, I think that all things are possible for me this year."

Davydenko, said: "Federer never played better for me than today's." It was fantastic, so many comments created quickly and it was very difficult to play. If this level in the year where he could be the number one new for sure. »

Toulouse remains high despite humble stage (AFP)

Paris (AFP) - French stage remains firmly in the hunt for a place to Play-off Top 14 Saturday as they leaders and champions of Europe Toulouse 31-3 at the Stade de France exceeded.

Despite the defeat, top Toulouse as second Montpellier 12-12 at home 2009 champions Perpignan, struggling to make the top six were held.

Racing-Metro can move to a point from Toulouse, they must overcome, Toulon and take a bonus point prestige clash on Sunday.

Julien Arias scored his fifth try of the season, when he took a reckless passes by Vincent Clerc, who missed the goal Clément Poitrenaud, and stage winger defeated before asking.

Julien Dupuy converted scale on the left side hosts an advantage of 10-3, but they suffered a blow as English Ollie Phillips yellow carded at the 26th minute for a late tackle on Cédric Heymans.

The stadium has expanded their lead, however, despite the fact that a man down as Dupuy on a fine at the 33rd minute slots and the former star of Leicester Tigers added another three points from the end to give them an advance of 16-3 in half the time.

Dupuy has added another penalty in half the time, and then the hosts struck the champions of Europe with a mortal blow as centre Mathieu Bastareaud scored an excellent test created by former France a half Lionel Beauxis giving them an advance of 24-3 with a half an hour to play.

Toulouse never threatened to return in game if they produced an atypical apathetic performance and it is no surprise when England star James Haskell added a third try with eight minutes remaining-Dupuy converted on 31-3.

Otherwise destroyed outfit ever closer to the fall, dragged Bourgoin crisis as they were 44-14 home by fellow wrestlers of La Rochelle.

Benjamin Dambielle helped 24 points such as La Rochelle more pain on the hosts, who only five points inflicted after only 16 games and left Bourgoin row before Anthony Forrest that deeply depressed about their chances of survival.

"It was the game of death and we weren't up to it, said Forrest."

"We received a swift blow to the head by truly real-time timely is led by a team that we on the counter-attack struck effectively when limiting us was in possession of more."

La Rochelle their relegation place GB win saw as they on Agen, who were on the recipient of a 65-22 hammering by Biarritz while two from Brive Friday after beating Clermont 29-22 champions.

U.s. prepares for junior hockey world to defend (PA)

BUFFALO (NY) - no point asking coach Canada Dave Cameron how lost the title of the World Junior Hockey Championship in United States - and on the House floor, no less - even updates a year later.

"What do you think? Cameron said Friday pure and simple, that he and his team participated in a pep rally at Niagara Falls, Ontario.

The United States have gold. And today, Canadians want to return.

The problem is, there are a number of teams, in particular the Sweden and Russia, which have the potential to derail the ideal scenario for both the expected and the United States Canada title game, 10-nation tournament opens at Buffalo Sunday.

And why Cameron and United States coach Keith Allain care to note how early it is discuss recovery or repeat end us for five years in the Canada conducts a 6-5 overtime victory in the title game in Saskatchewan in January.

"You can't look at the final result, gold," said Cameron, who, for a third consecutive year returns. "The margin between the teams is low, and we can afford to look by anyone."

Allain already enough on his plate without worrying about Canada. It tries to divert and expectations placed on a team which linked as favorite despite having just won the tournament twice in 34 years and has never won a medal in four previous times that the event took place at the United States

And it is especially unfortunate this last week after shootout consecutive American decisions in their first two exhibition games tournament.

Allain, "maybe this will delete any notion that we are favored, it is clear," said Tuesday after losing 3-2 Czech Republic. "I love my team, no mistake. And I think at the end of the day, we will ultimately. But I don't know how you can watch these games and say "" that they will withdraw with tournament." "

The United States returns with a 6-1 victory on Thursday the Norway and tournament against the Finland will open on Sunday.

Americans return eight players, including goalkeeper Jack Campbell. There are also nine first round NHL Repechage and six second-rounders, including prior Jeremy Morin, who has two goals and an assist in nine games with the Chicago Blackhawks this season.

Known players, is a great help. So the confidence they receive by beating the Canada last year.

"It's something that I will never forget." We were able to do something great, "said back before Jason Zucker." Beat the team showed that we can win. This is huge for us, and we hope to contribute that.

The Americans have a much easier way. They are in a pool complemented by the Switzerland Finland, Slovakia and Germany - four opponents, who have contributed to only 13 medals tournament, including Finlands two gold medals.

With a better tournament 15 titles, Canadians face a much more difficult task. They open on Sunday against Russia (12 titles, including the nine as the Soviet Union) and is also faced with double champion Czech Republic and Sweden, who finished second or third in each of the last three years and won gold in 1981.

The Canadian round draft 15 NHL collects the function and the edge in support of the fan. "With adjacent Buffalo in southern Ontario," said tournament organizers about two-thirds of 300,000 tickets sold is rendered in the Canadian population.

But support also means an additional pressure with a "Gold or bust" hockey-mad nation mentality and still received the additional Canada winner of gold medal on the United States at the Olympic Games in Vancouver in February.

"Everyone expects of us and I think we are the team to win," said Canada captain Ryan Ellis, who, in his third tournament right competes. "We are certain go."

The Canadians won all three of their exposure, capped by a 5-2 victory on the Finland Thursday games tournament.

Sweden, who won the bronze medal last year, a lot of depth of talent, including prior Gabriel Landeskog, which plays in Kitchener, and was the prospect of rated Ontario hockey League in the ranking of the central NHL Scout in October.

"Our goal is to win the tournament, so if you're going to win the tournament, you have to beat all the teams," said the Swedish Captain Anton Lander. "" "" If it is good to be in a group where the teams are very good. We'll see what happens. »

Comments: Team Canada had to eat the Buffalo Sabres coach Lindy Ruff at home on Friday. Ruff was a coach Assistant Canadian Olympic team in Vancouver. ... The best two teams from each group go directly to the semi-final on January 3. The Medal of the Games gold and bronze for January 5. ... Canada and the United States have only a chance to meet in semi-finished products or Medal of the games.

St-Pierre dominates Koscheck at UFC 124 (AP)

Champion of Montreal-welterweight as Georges St-Pierre outpointed trash-talking about Josh Koscheck Saturday night in Tuff 124 winning 50-45 on all three cards in front of a record nets fans UFC judges at the Bell Centre.

Koscheck de Montréal (21-2) 29 years old face with his jab divided and punished her legs with kicks to his fifth title successfully defending.

"I can reach my goal tonight." My goal was to him, but he was very strongly, "St. Pierre said."

In the case co-main, 6-foot-11 Dutch heavy Stefan Struve Arc GEODESIC arrested 6-foot-7 Sean McCorkle at 3: 55 in the first round to improve 10-1. Welterweight Thiago Alves also won a unanimous decision on John Howard, Danzig Mac eliminated from Joe Stevenson and Jim Miller light angry star Charles mounted Oliveira.

Canadian warriors dominated by the fighting of the opening. John Makdessi and Sean Pierson has won his debut, Jesse Bongfeldt had a tie in his first fight and also won brand Boceck.

Makdessi outpointed unanimously Pat Audinwood, Pierson has won a slugfest with Matt Riddle Bongfeldt fought a raffle with Rafael Natal and Dustin Hazelett Boceck topped.

The Canadian TJ grant and Joe Doerksen. Ricardo Almeida edges Grant and then Miller beat Doerksen.

Justice will be done, dynamic said Contador (AFP)

MADRID (AFP) - triple winner of tour de France Alberto Contador has published an optimistic message of Christmas on Saturday where it on a charge of doping could be erased and 2011 a historic year for him would be.

27 Year-old Spanish has been temporarily suspended in September after the traces of Clenbuterol, a drug which is also used for fattening cattle weight loss/muscle-building prohibits, were found in a sample of urine to France tour this year.

However, Contador are expressed on his Twitter confidence that his claims that he adopted unconsciously clenbuterol France Spain beef for the second day of rest of the tour, four days before July 25, he won his third title could be worn.

Clenbuterol by the European Union was banned in 1996, but it is still illegal managed by farmers.

"I can't say it is the best Christmas or quiet, but I am convinced that 2011 due, ethics and the truth will prevail and that justice will be", he said.

"I want my team Saxo Bank (which he signed a two year contract with August) for the preservation of his faith in me." This year will be historic (his emphasis)! »

The UCI has requested the opening of disciplinary proceedings against Contador 8 November and the cyclist who also won the tour in 2007 and 2009-a threatened to stop sport as he is suspended for two years (Spanish Federation of cycling) regions.

Kanaan finds new ride with team Ferran (PA)

INDIANAPOLIS-all Tony Kanaan really wanted was a ride full-time in Indycar Series standings. A few days earlier, Gil de Ferran team owner delivered his gift.

On Monday, two Brazilian friends announced that they would work together for the 2011 season, a movement that instant credibility to Dragon Ferran race gives young team.

"I would like to mention Gil Santa because he had that white hair and big belly," joked Kanaan to a conference call with reporters. "I tried to explain to my kids that I went to Santa asking a gift, too."

Kanaan, known for its playful and distinguished image personality, is one of the most competitive drivers in the series.

In eight seasons of lead the team of Michael Andretti, Kanaan won 14 races, the title of the series of 2004 and never finished worse than sixth in points. He won the final race of the season in Iowa and finished sixth overall.

And these past three years, Kanaan, which transforms the 36 next week, has been the influence firming for younger teammates, including Danica Patrick. Usually he spent the month of may all four cars driving in the stables Andretti, although he has never won the Indianapolis 500. Flagrant Kanaan de CV a failure, it is hoped can help the Ferran to eliminate it.

Ferran, who won the Indianapolis 500, 2003 for Roger Penske, referred to as the owner of a team of first series last season driving. A Brazilian Raphael Matos was Ferran full-time rider last season with American Davey Hamilton led part-time for the team.

Get Kanaan, however, is an important step for Ferran.

"We have a very young and development company with great ambitions and I think Tony brings a wealth of experience", he said. "He is a champion, he is the winner of the race, it has all types of cars is precipitated in many situations." We hope that it a little more brings us close to be a major force in the IRL Izod IndyCar Series. »

Both also have a friendship that rises above the sport.

Kanaan acknowledged Monday that he and Ferran were waved with their families, and they are so close that Kanaan even could not explain when begun negotiations on this agreement. The provisions of the contract are not immediately available.

The team announced a major sponsor, but Kanaan will have a new number - 2.

"I looked at him one day and he looked at me and said that he ' should we talk about?" "." Kanaan has said. I said"Yes. "»

Things are not official, although at the Monday announcement.

Kanaan future with motorcycling Andretti has been introduced in case of doubt, where 7-Eleven announced last year that it was sponsored by long date Kanaan green and white nr. car 11 would end. In October, Kanaan and Andretti has accepted a settlement that essentially Kanaan free agent.

Andretti team has undergone major changes to the shoulder - lose Kanaan and three major sponsorship deals, including 7-Eleven. For the first time in years, it seems the team will be less than four pilots, and it will not be the same Kanaan, in collaboration with another team in gasoline Alley.

But it is an image of Canaan and the Ferran will cherish.

"I am to get attention for myself." "It feels good," said Kanaan. "He was eight, almost nine years with a great team, so it took me some time to get accustomed to, but in a way that I think this is very good." Enjoy every moment of it. Everything is reduced to me. "I am just trying to get."

Of Ferran did a said step or Hamilton would part-time return in 2011, or if there is a second pilot full-time add, but he has already said he would prefer a team of two cars.

"I think that the rest of our plans is known in a timely manner," said Ferran. "Hopefully, we'll make more announcements in the near future." It was excellent Davey last year, and if we can do once more next year, we would.

Marlins finalize Launcher Nolasco (REUTERS)-3 year extension

MIAMI (REUTERS) - the complete Florida marlins an extension from three years to launch pitcher Ricky Nolasco 26.5 million, the Web site of major league baseball (mlb.com) reported on Friday.

Nolasco, 28, 14-9, with an average of race earned 4.51 26 began last season. He beat-147 and ran just 33.

The agreement is blocking Nolasco who would have been two more arbitration eligible seasons, with the first season, it would have been eligible for free agency.

"I can't even explain how much of a difference will be for me", said the Nolasco reporters on a conference call.

"Just go there and do not have to worry about the arbitration process, or where I am if I will be exchanged or." I am confident that I will do here for three years. »

Nolasco has led Florida winner 2010, despite the absence of the last month due to cartilage torn in his right knee surgery is necessary. It is expected to be fully as spring training starts.

(Written by Larry Fine, editing by Peter Rutherford)

Carlton Cole double sinks Fulham v West Ham (AFP)

London (REUTERS) - Carlton Cole scored his first ever double Championship as West Ham relieves pressure on the boss Avram Grant with a crucial 3-1 win at Fulham Sunday.

Grant is carrying more close to the bag over the past few weeks as West Ham struggled to climb from the bottom of the Premier League, but the former Chelsea Manager obtained a stay of execution through Cole heroic.

The England striker memories of a subsidy five changes for the shock of tightening, offset a goal Fulham Defender Aaron Hughes start and then struck again with the decisive goal, Frédéric Piquionne hammers forward.

Cole double seals hammers in four matches the first victory and their first success in 27 attempts, moved team grant from the bottom of the table and the level of points with the fourth ground Fulham.

West Ham fellow David Sullivan and David present Gold at Craven Cottage could defeat spelled the end of grant.

Instead of this, Fulham boss Mark Hughes, which will begin to feel the heat as its side struggling under continues to run.

Grant said: "it was a good game for us - we returned has been extraordinary." Fulham was a lot of possession and they were checking without creating opportunities.

"I loved the objective that we accepted but we scored three and we could scored more I am happy."

"Players are satisfied with the win, and they want to enjoy once more.

Grant had a bet by Freddie Sears its first championship start since March 2009, after recalling the early period of loan at the club Championship striker Scunthorpe amply rewarded, but if he was man of the match picked up honours.

West Ham is the short trip across London to know that a single club in the history of the Premier League has avoided relegation are at the bottom of the start of boxing day.

Cole is two chances in the early stages, as he led by scale and an effort off target moved from a tight angle.

But it was Fulham who took the lead in the 11th minute as West Ham not clear a corner, leaving Simon Davies, pass the Hughes unmarked at the head of the House of his first goal for more than six years.

Andy Johnson tested green distance two minutes later and Fulham lead in the 18th minute when he is enrolled in Davies cross six meters must have doubled.

After that, Matt opening torn West Ham a lifeline that Cole Equalised against the course of the game at the 37th minute.

Sears cross was intercepted by Dickson Etuhu, but the midfielder could only to send the ball directly to Cole, who strained to shoot past Mark Schwarzer from six metres.

Suddenly West Ham played more verve and Piquionne put visitors to come in time to stop when he arrived completely unmarked salvo in Scott Parker cross.

Hughes retired Clint Dempsey and Etuhu Damien Duff and Eddie Johnson, a change which greeted with songs "you don't know what you do" Fulham fans.

Hangeland played a defence splitting pass Johnson but West Ham keeper Rob Green was on the line in a Flash to block the arrival to the front.

Each return Fulham thoughts have been completed in the 73rd minute when the Hughes has sought to cut a long ball forward, but only in the nod directly Cole, who fired a beautifully past successfully drive bevel Schwarzer.

Olympic filmmaker Bud Greenspan on 84 died in New York (AP)

Bud Greenspan, whose documentary filmmaker often increase as triumphant as Olympic athletes who described for over six decades, died at his home in New York. He was 84.

Companion Nancy Beffa said he died Saturday from complications of Parkinson's disease. More recent work by Mr. Greenspan dealt with rough cuts films of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games.

The award-winning filmmaker broke aimed at small and large success of the athletes in the summer and winter games. His career took off with a film, he has done in 1964 on Olympic Jesse Owens to return at the scene of his gold medal performance in Berlin about 30 years earlier. But Greenspan has never lost his love for the smaller victories as well.

Her favourite Olympic moment remained a last place by Marathon finish Tanzanian John Stephen Ahkwari in Mexico City in 1968.

"He has come an hour and a half after the winner." He wore practical its leg, he was so bloody and Pact, "Greenspan recalled in an interview with espn.com almost a decade ago." I asked him: "' why you continue?" " He said: "you don't understand." My country have not send me 5,000 miles to start a race, they me to finish it was sent. "Who sent chills in my back and I still remember the. »

Mr. Greenspan describes the Olympics as "two weeks of love." It's like never never land. As Robin Hood shoot his arrow by the other guys arrow.

"It's a privilege to be associated with the best in the world," he said in an interview. "How often do you with the best in the world in something?" They bring some things they do not normally.

I spend my time on approximately 99% of what is fair at the Olympics, and most people spend 100% of their time on the percentage of that - which is negative. I've been criticized for looking at things through pink glasses, but the percentages are with me. »

The International Olympic Committee described Greenspan as a "true supporter of the Olympic Games and the corresponding values of his career.

Mr. Greenspan, a native New Yorker stores a different image with his glasses perched on a bald dome. He got his departure on the radio to turn to the film.

Top of magic page Boston Celtics snap streak (PA)

ORLANDO, FL - the magic redesigned are NBA new seeding-busters.

Brandon Bass scored 21 points, Hidayet Turkoglu had 15 magic finished winning Orlando streak of Boston Celtics in 14 games with victory 86-78 Saturday for successive victories against the best in the NBA.

A Magic team dropped eight of the nine games and orchestrated by two blockbuster trade suddenly seems very afraid in the Eastern Conference after a few victories in Boston and San Antonio.

"See you what opportunities," said Magic coach Stan Van Gundy. "See you that you have a chance to be a very good team." Not money, but you'll have a chance to be a very good team. And I think that the faith and confidence that if we continue with the desire, we can be very good.

"It's a great thing for our team to this belief that, Yes, this can work." We can do. »

Jameer Nelson (12 points) and j.j. Redick (10 points) each fact a sweater in the last minute to help Orlando rally 12 low points in the second half to come to another big cap. End magic streak also winner of San Antonio in 10 games Thursday evening.

Kevin Garnett had 22 points and Paul Pierce added 18, but finally taken with the Celtics injuries against the team to beat the season last in the East finals. Boston had not lost since 21 November in Toronto.

"I thought that we have gone far in execute offensively and we just don't get all stops on the segment," said Pierce.

The Celtics had Magic Star Center Dwight Howard in the problems of error for the first three quarters. It has not yet his first field goal scoring up to a minute in the fourth quarter, hook on Glen Davis cultures of Boston fire can lead to four.

A few plays later, Howard was struggling with Shaquille o ' Neal position when he fired a sixth error on o ' Neal by easily fall on the ground. And o ' Neal, charged by Van Gundy for buffets in a two-year game fed feed between the two, was not satisfied with the flute.

"I wonder why I have never this call in 20 years" said o ' Neal. "Unavailable if you go to call." ... This is what happens when you control freaks.

Howard disagree.

"I do step flop,", he said. "I only stumbled."

Related magic 77 on short jumping Bass with remaining 1: 56. Nelson followed with a 3-pointer, leaving his hand in the air and bumping the teammate Jason Richardson chest in a hectic holiday close to the shore. And after that Garnett, one of two free made pleas, individuals travelling on a jumper to approximately 20 metres to convert Orlando before 82-78.

Ray Allen and Nate Robinson had each airballs in the final seconds, and Nelson made four throws to seal an another great victory for a Magic team has collapsed a few days before. Two transactions were up to this fact the difference.

The Magic Gilbert Arenas Washington and Richardson, Turkoglu and Earl Clark of Phoenix. It gives Rashard Lewis, Vince Carter, Mickael pietrus, Marcin Gortat, as well as a 2011 first round draft pick and cash in the agreements.

Boston point guard Rajon Rondo was once more with a sprained ankle and seven of the 14 WINS had missed in the band. Backup Delonte West missed the last 13. O'Neal is four, Jermaine O'Neal has played for the first time in 14 matches against Orlando and Kendrick Perkins - began last season Center - even has not played this season.

Not Orlando was not less enjoying the victory.

"I had never played at Christmas," said Arenas. "I am beautiful Christmas present today."

Comments: the game was in fact a home for different Celtics game. Shaquille o ' Neal and coach Doc Rivers have lived in the area of Orlando years and Marquis Daniels are Orlando. ... Tiger Woods was seated beside. ... The Celtics and Magic again on January 17 in Boston.

Artest announces a Laker (PA) ring lottery winner

LOS ANGELES - Ron Artest has absolutely no regrets to give her the Los Angeles Lakers championship ring to promote mental health awareness. In fact, they were just encouraged him to get out and get another cycle.

Artest announces her ring charity lottery winner late Saturday night club side street in the Centre of Staples, where by Miami Heat 96-80 in the window display of NBA Lakers were beaten.

The ring was won by Raymond Mikkael, father of four of Hawthorne, California

"Is feeling good, because there a lot of advertising, and is cool," Artest said before on LeBron James. "I am pleased that we can start now and some more work with charities.

Artest had the idea to give his first NBA title ring after the introduction of the spotlight on health mental first psychiatrist after part 7 of the Lakers on Boston triumph last June. Although that some MEP in another stunt by one of the greatest characters in the NBA, Artest candid statement caused an interest for the standardization of mental health care, in this unique gift of charity, effect effect snowball.

And when he has officially off the coast of the ring in a few weeks, Artest feels that it will be even more motivation to replace it with the Lakers, who their hunting activities third consecutive title.

"I'm so eager to get out on the weather," said Artest. "I get more fuel, I burn everything." I am motivated.

Although he does not know the final figures, draw Artest raises more than $500,000 for her charity, which will operate the University Excel with youth mental health risks. Artest said he wrote his first cheque for $50,000 in revenue to charity.

Artest sounds overwhelmed by the support, praising each its teammates for the Lakers fans to participate in the lottery. Same Lakers coach Phil Jackson says he bought a pair of tickets, praised the Artest strategy to channel the money directly into charity rather than intermediaries.

Lakers franchise rings 16th Championship contain much of the ball in game 7 against the Boston Celtics. The ring has a circumference of 16 oversize white diamonds represent the Lakers with two trophies 16-carat gold Championship titles. On one side of the ring is a three dimensional parable of the player.

Artest has not complied with his taste for the unorthodox acts of charity: it has recently said that he would like to make a donation to a huge chunk of his salary $ 6.79 million for next season to mental health charities.

It is a little harder respond to today's economy, but it could be. Artest said Saturday that his Christmas wish "a tax-break directly from Obama" due to the high cost of his style of life with his wife and children.

"Unfortunately, diamonds are better friend girl," Artest said.