By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

FORT MYERS — Unless there's the equivalent of a ninth-inning rally, the Rays' opening-day bullpen will look as it has for the past week, with RHP Juan Cruz and LHPs Jake McGee and Cesar Ramos getting the final three spots.

"It's becoming less up in the air," manager Joe Maddon said before Tuesday's 1-1 tie with the Red Sox. "These guys, I hate stringing them out like this. But it's getting very, very close, and hopefully by (today) I'll be able to tell every one of them straight up what's going on. But it's looking a lot like what you're seeing right now."

They have been perusing trade and waiver-wire possibilities, given the alternative of optioning McGee or Ramos to Triple A. Rosters don't have to be set until Thursday morning.

And there was word Tuesday that 1B Casey Kotchman and INF Felipe Lopez, two veterans who were in camp on minor-league deals, will join Triple-A Durham, giving the Rays quality depth. "I think everything's going to work out okay there," Maddon said.

Gun control: Maddon said there isn't much he can say or do about 3B Evan Longoria having an AK-47 rifle in the spring training home he shared with teammates David Price and Reid Brignac until the gun was stolen Saturday.

"I don't know what you would say," Maddon said. "It's a legal situation, and it's his choice. I didn't get upset when he bought a '69 Camaro. It's a personal choice situation. I never would attempt to influence somebody's personal choices. …

"If they were to ask me my opinion, I would give it to them, but if my advice is not sought, then I'm not going to give it. … It's up to him; it's not up to me. It's not my choice."

Maddon said it's not that unusual for pro athletes — in baseball, basketball or football — to have weapons.

A 2 and a 3: No. 2 starter James Shields was sharp in a two-inning simulated game at Tropicana Field to make up for being rained out Monday, striking out four while facing a lineup that included Johnny Damon, Longoria, Manny Ramirez and B.J. Upton. "A nice little All-Star lineup," Shields said. "There's a lot of hits in that lineup."

Shields was encouraged by how he threw quality breaking balls for strikes and maintained his mechanics.

"I feel really good, really strong," he said. "My last four outings of spring training have been exactly where I want it to be. My delivery is as good as it's going to get. If I stay consistent with it throughout the year, I think we're going to have some success."

No. 3 starter Wade Davis went four innings against the Red Sox's A lineup, allowing a home run to Adrian Gonzalez among five hits.

"I like what he's done with his delivery — a lot more consistent, a lot more compact," Maddon said. "I think he's gained better rhythm and tempo from that. I think he looks really good."

Davis said he feels more relaxed and prepared than last season as a result of knowing he has a place in the rotation.

Even up: After a 1-7-1 start, the Rays went 13-7-1 to finish the spring 14-14-2, as today's Tropicana Field exhibition doesn't count in the stats or standings.

"We played well the later part of the spring," Maddon said. "You're always looking to build momentum into the season — pitching got better, the defense got tighter, bats got better, and the energy has been very good."

Minor matter: OF John Shelby III, the son of former big-leaguer John "T-bone" Shelby, was acquired from the White Sox for cash and is likely headed to Double-A Montgomery. Shelby, 25, hit .249 at Double A last season; he was ranked the Sox's 25th-best prospect going into 2010.

Game details: The Rays took a 1-0 lead when Sean Rodriguez walked, stole second and third and scored on Elliot Johnson's single. … The Sox tied it on Gonzalez's homer off Davis. … RHP Joel Peralta worked 10 innings over nine spring games without allowing a run, and Cruz gave up one over the same workload. … There was a mutual agreement to not play a 10th inning as the Sox were flying out for an exhibition in Houston. … RHP Adam Russell and McGee each worked an inning in the simulated game and will pitch today.

Times staff writer Joe Smith contributed to this report.

By Michael Kruse, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Before this week, Evan Longoria for most fans of the Tampa Bay Rays was their clean-cut, laid-back, hard-hitting, good-looking star third baseman.

Now, though, he is also the owner, or former owner, of an AK-47, the type of assault rifle considered the world's most efficient killing machine.

News came Monday that burglars down in Port Charlotte had entered through an unlocked window the spring training rental home of Longoria and teammates David Price and Reid Brignac. The list of stolen items included iPads, expensive watches, a huge-screen television, and then Longoria's gun. It's not illegal. It's just unexpected.

Fans' reactions on Tuesday ranged widely.

On one hand were fans like Michael Lortz, 33, of Tampa: "I don't think it's that big of a deal. I'm a gun owner myself."

On the other were fans like Cindy McMullen, 57, of St. Petersburg: "My first thought was, 'Oh, Evan, say it ain't so.' " She called it "shocking."

But somewhere in the middle were fans who didn't quite know what to think.

"Maybe he's trying to get a little bit of bada- - in him," said Donna Sweikow, 49, of Clearwater. "Maybe he's been a bada- - all along and we just didn't know it."

"It does make you wonder," said Wendy Stodder, 49, of Winter Haven.

Here's what Longoria has been so far: so good, so quickly, so consistently. Rookie of the Year in 2008. An All-Star every season. A Silver Slugger winner. Twice a Gold Glove winner. He is at this point the face of the franchise for the Rays, and arguably their most famous player ever. He's 25.

Those early accomplishments, along with an appearance that's agreeable to middle America and with women coast to coast, has led to endorsements, too. He's been the cover boy of a baseball video game. He's starred in a popular national TV commercial for New Era ball caps. He's now something called a Gillette Young Gun. Nielsen and E-Poll earlier this month named him the fifth-most marketable baseball player. Rays president Matt Silverman has called him "the type of player Major League Baseball wants to advertise and promote."

The Davie Brown Index is a way for companies to determine which athletes and celebrities can help them sell what they want to sell. Longoria's overall DBI score is lower overall in "awareness" than New York Yankee superstars Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez, but he ranks higher, actually, in categories like "trust" and "appeal."

That's probably not going to change because of this, says Darin David, a sports marketing expert from Dallas, "if it moves out of the news cycle pretty quickly and kind of comes and goes."

But someone's marketability is based not on who he is, but on who people think he is. And fair or unfair, legal or not, Longoria's image, even only briefly, is associated with his AK-47.

The AK-47 is durable and reliable. It's easy to carry and easy to use. It's the gun of choice of Somali pirates, urban gangs and Osama bin Laden.

Last year, in his book The Gun, former Marine and New York Times foreign correspondent C.J. Chivers called it "a device that allowed ordinary men to kill other men without extensive training or undue complications."

On Monday, in Tampa, Longoria called it "a personal item."

"I don't have a problem with people being legal gun owners," said Rays fan Tom Topping, 43, of Clearwater. "But the AK-47 just comes with such a malicious reputation."

"I'm sure he's a good person, and that he wouldn't do anything bad," said Winter Haven's Stodder, "but it does make you think about why he thinks he needs that. It makes him look immature. It makes you disappointed in him."

"It does kind of put a taint on that golden image of Evan Longoria," said Cork Gaines, the editor of Rays Index, a popular fan site.

"Now," he said, "this gun is in the hands of criminals who are obviously willing to do bad things. That's a bit worrisome."

Longoria's legal assault rifle is now somebody else's illegal assault rifle.

Michael Kruse can be reached at mkruse@sptimes.com or (727) 893-8751.

By Michael Kruse, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Before this week, Evan Longoria for most fans of the Tampa Bay Rays was their clean-cut, laid-back, hard-hitting, good-looking star third baseman.

Now, though, he is also the owner — or former owner — of an AK-47, the type of assault rifle considered the world's most efficient killing machine.

News came Monday that burglars down in Port Charlotte had entered through an unlocked window the spring training rental home of Longoria and teammates David Price and Reid Brignac. The list of stolen items included iPads, expensive watches, a huge-screen television, and then Longoria's gun. It's not illegal. It's just unexpected.

Fans' reactions on Tuesday ranged widely.

On one hand were fans like Michael Lortz, 33, of Tampa: "I don't think it's that big of a deal. I'm a gun owner myself."

On the other were fans like Cindy McMullen, 57, of St. Petersburg: "My first thought was, 'Oh, Evan, say it ain't so.' " She called it "shocking."

But somewhere in the middle were fans who didn't quite know what to think.

"Maybe he's trying to get a little bit of bada - - in him," said Donna Sweikow, 49, of Clearwater. "Maybe he's been a bada - - all along and we just didn't know it."

"It does make you wonder," said Wendy Stodder, 49, of Winter Haven.

Here's what Longoria has been so far: so good, so quickly, so consistently. Rookie of the Year in 2008. An All-Star every season. A Silver Slugger winner. Twice a Gold Glove winner. He is at this point the face of the franchise for the Rays, and arguably their most famous player ever. He's 25.

Those early accomplishments, along with an appearance that's agreeable to middle America and with women coast to coast, has led to endorsements, too. He's been the cover boy of a baseball video game. He's starred in a popular national TV commercial for New Era ball caps. He's now something called a Gillette Young Gun. Nielsen and E-Poll earlier this month named him the fifth-most marketable baseball player. Rays president Matt Silverman has called him "the type of player Major League Baseball wants to advertise and promote."

The Davie Brown Index is a way for companies to determine which athletes and celebrities can help them sell what they want to sell. Longoria's overall DBI score is lower overall in "awareness" than New York Yankee superstars Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez, but he ranks higher, actually, in categories like "trust" and "appeal."

That's probably not going to change because of this, says Darin David, a sports marketing expert from Dallas, "if it moves out of the news cycle pretty quickly and kind of comes and goes."

But someone's marketability is based not on who he is, but on who people think he is. And fair or unfair, legal or not, Longoria's image, even only briefly, is associated with his AK-47.

The AK-47 is durable and reliable. It's easy to carry and easy to use. It's the gun of choice of Somali pirates, urban gangs and Osama bin Laden.

Last year, in his book The Gun, former Marine and New York Times foreign correspondent C.J. Chivers called it "a device that allowed ordinary men to kill other men without extensive training or undue complications."

On Monday, in Tampa, Longoria called it "a personal item."

"I don't have a problem with people being legal gun owners," said Rays fan Tom Topping, 43, of Clearwater. "But the AK-47 just comes with such a malicious reputation."

"I'm sure he's a good person, and that he wouldn't do anything bad," said Winter Haven's Stodder, "but it does make you think about why he thinks he needs that. It makes him look immature. It makes you disappointed in him."

"It does kind of put a taint on that golden image of Evan Longoria," said Cork Gaines, the editor of Rays Index, a popular fan site.

"Now," he said, "this gun is in the hands of criminals who are obviously willing to do bad things. That's a bit worrisome."

Longoria's legal assault rifle is now somebody else's illegal assault rifle.

Michael Kruse can be reached at mkruse@sptimes.com or (727) 893-8751.

Derek J. LaRiviere, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Perfect games have been pouring out of Spring Hill Lanes this month at an unbelievable rate.

In the Mike's Auto Body League, three bowlers tossed 300 games March 15.

Todd Brower, Chris Polizzi and Hank Behrbom all finished the evening with one major accomplishment. For Polizzi, it was his third perfect game to go along with three other 800 series on the season. On that Tuesday night, he shot 731. Behrbom shot a perfect game en route to a 749 series.

Brower's 300 was all the more impressive when you take into account that it was his second this season and he followed it the next night in the Wednesday Mixed League with his third.

In the Mike's Auto Body League, he scored a 743 series, and the next night showed no signs of slowing down when he stepped up to a 783 series. He also had 257 and 226 games on Wednesday night.

On March 18 during the T.G.I.F. League, Johnny Zuidema III finished off the flurry with a 300, too. It was Zuidema's second in less than a month after tossing a perfect game on Feb. 25. He finished that Friday with a 764 series with games of 248 and 216.

HIGH POINT LADIES GOLF: This past month has been a competitive one for the High Point Ladies Golf League.

Things started with the two-day championship tournament March 11 and 12. The prestigious tournament was held in two parts, with both nine-hole and 18-hole events.

The nine-hole winners were Beverly Vauter (low gross score) and Helen Reynolds (low net). On the 18-hole side, the champs were Joan Kaloustian (low gross) and Dottie Mussatto (low net).

On March 14, the women got together and played a nine-hole scramble with winners being crowned on the front nine and back nine. On the front, the champs were Nancy Reeves, Cindy Williams, Dot Brown and Ockie Scache with a score of 36, and the back leaders were Delores Hartwick, Barbara Ryan, Gloria Corey, and Bernice Skinner with a total of 39.

Hartwick and Linda Roper carded the only two birdies on the day. Hartwick's came on Hole 13, a 219-yard Par 4. Roper achieved hers on Hole 1, a 116-yard Par 3.

March 21 marked a return to the norm. The nine-hole ladies and 18-hole ladies split up and played their own games.

The nine-hole women played in three groups, dropping the worst hole they played. There was a tie on Flight A between Lottie Ward, Maryann Wilkinson and Barbara Ryan (44). Flight B was won by Sharon Riedl (44), and Flight C was won by Linda Mason (45).

The annual 18-hole flag tournament took place that week as well. Each player has a flag, plays to their handicap, and places the flag in the ground when she has reached her total handicap score. The player who goes furthest wins.

First place was Jean Erber with Doris Thomas coming in a close second. Brenda Bowley placed third.

KIWANIS GOLF: The Brooksville Golf & Country Club is hosting the 41st annual Brooksville Kiwanis Golf Invitational on June 1.

The cost for entry is $75 per golfer, including golf, cart, dinner, and prizes. Shotgun start is set for 1 p.m. The format of the tournament is a four-man scramble. First come, first serve. Registration deadline is May 20.

Cash prizes, door prizes, closest-to-the-pin, and longest drive prizes will be awarded at the tournament. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

For information, call Barbara Hitzemann at (352) 442-3412 or visit www.kiwanisclubofbrooksville.org.

SOUTHERN HILLS 5K: The fourth annual "Run through the Hills" 5K at Southern Hills Plantation Club in Brooksville will be held April 9.

The goal of the event is to raise funds and increase awareness about domestic violence for the Dawn Center. All registration proceeds go to the center and the Red Mule Runner's Club Scholarship Fund.

The race will begin at 8 a.m. and a Smile Mile Fun Run will also begin at 8:45 a.m. Registration will open at 7 a.m. Entry fees are $20 for the 5K or $25 on race day, and $15 for the fun run or $20 on race day. A T-shirt is guaranteed to all that pre-register. Online registration is available at www.raceit.com or www.redmulerunners.com.

For information, call Pamela Poisson at (352) 585-2813 or Chuck Boldt at (352) 688-6484.

FAST-PITCH SOFTBALL LESSONS: The Hernando County Department of Recreation is offering fast-pitch softball private lessons at Anderson Snow Park in Spring Hill.

The lessons are available to all players from age 7-16. April Pelham, a certified Florida fast-pitch instructor, will lead all instruction.

Private lessons for hitting or catching are $20 for 30 minutes, and private lessons for fielding or throwing are $15 for 30 minutes. Pitching lessons are available at a fee of $20 for 30 minutes, $25 for 45 minutes or $40 for one hour.

For information, contact Penny Oliver at (352) 754-4031 or pennyo@hernandocounty.us.

TENNIS LESSONS: The Hernando County Department of Recreation is offering tennis lessons at Delta Woods Park in Spring Hill.

The clinics are available to all ages. They are open to all skill levels. Private and group lessons are available. Every lesson will be led by a certified instructor.

The cost is $10 for one hour of group lessons, and $30 for one hour of private lessons.

For information, contact Penny Oliver at (352) 754-4031 or pennyo@hernandocounty.us.

To notify us of community sports achievements or coming events, contact Derek J. LaRiviere at derekjlariviere@gmail.com or (352) 584-6337.

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Inside NASCAR: 9 p.m. on Showtime. Looking back at Sunday's race in California and ahead to next week's race in Martinsville, Va.

Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel: 10 p.m. on HBO. An hour-long special with a roundtable discussion about the state of college sports. Guests include Billy Packer, Rich Rodriguez and Jason Whitlock.

Late Show With David Letterman: 11:35 p.m. on Ch. 10. Yankees pitching ace CC Sabathia is one of the scheduled guests.

Dave Walker, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

What's hot: The annual arrival of Spanish mackerel has happened rather suddenly. Almost overnight, Tampa Bay received a huge influx.

Tips: When the bite is on, nothing in the water is safe, especially live baits. The artificial lures of choice are silver spoons. Live baits should be free-lined downtide. Spoons can be trolled or pitched. To attract mackerel, use a frozen block of chum. Anchor and tie it to a cleat and plop it over the side. Just never forget a partly used chum bag in a boat hatch!

Tactics: The preference is light spinning gear. A fairly limber rod and a smooth, loose drag will help. Use a leader. Some use thin, single-strand wire to prevent biteoffs, but mono and long shank hooks are preferred. Monofilament is easier to work with than wire, which is important when dealing with fish that have razor sharp teeth. Look for them around range markers and in shipping channels.

Cooking tips: Ice the fish immediately and eat them fresh. If they must be frozen, do so in a block of water. Mackerel can be prepared in a variety of ways; try them on a broiling pan with fresh citrus juice applied after it has been cooked.

Dave Walker charters out of Tampa and can be reached at snookfish.com or (813) 310-6531.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Awards of the day

Former Rays and current Red Sox LF Carl Crawford was presented his 2010 Rays MVP and Paul C. Smith Champion awards, given by the Tampa Bay chapter of the Baseball Writers Association of America. It was the third time he'd won the MVP award, second for the champion award. "I took a lot of pride in what I did, so whenever you guys award me, I'm very appreciative," Crawford said.

Return trip of the day

RHP James Shields made two trips from his Clearwater home to Tampa on Monday and didn't even pitch. He made the midafternoon drive, realized he forgot his gear, then went back in heavy rain and had just returned to Tampa when he was told of the cancellation. "I was panicking," he said.

Hello and goodbye of the spring

The Rays played in the first game at the Orioles' renovated Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota on March 1 and played in the Red Sox's last game at City of Palms Park on Tuesday. Boston is set to move into a new facility next spring near the Fort Myers airport. The Rays "closed" two other spring parks, in Winter Haven and St. Petersburg's Al Lang Field. "We can do that," manager Joe Maddon said. "We've closed a few barrooms, too."

Disguise of the day

Class A Hudson Valley manager Jared Sandberg gets credit for creativity — tapped for bench coach duty in Fort Myers with Dave Martinez at the Tropicana Field workout, Sandberg pulled on a fake beard right before the first pitch. "He definitely gets what we're all about," manager Joe Maddon said. "I kinda liked it."

Reassignments of the day

In Fort Myers, the Rays had usual bullpen coach Bobby Ramos working at third base. "We tried to simplify the signs," manager Joe Maddon said. "We went through the Cliff Notes version. … He's animated (at third), and he's got one of the better waddles. … He's kind of like an older penguin, a penguin that gets plenty of fish." At the Trop, 3B coach Tom Foley played shortstop and hitting coach Derek Shelton second in the simulated game, with LHP David Price in the outfield.

Rays vs. Blue Jays

When/where: 4:10 today; Tropicana Field

Tickets: $10, general admission to all lower-level areas but Home Plate and Whitney Bank clubs. Available via raysbaseball.com, stadium, team Tampa store, Ticketmaster outlets.

Radio: 620-AM

Gates open: 2:40 p.m.

Parking: $10, lots open at 10.

Rays information: Toll-free 1-888-326-7297 (FAN-RAYS)

Pitchers: Rays — RHP Jeff Niemann, Andy Sonnanstine, Kyle Farnsworth; Jays — LHP Jo-Jo Reyes, TBA

Who is this Ray?

He grew up a big fan of former big-league OF David Justice. He was drafted by the Dodgers out of high school but didn't sign. He majored in sociology in college. He has a French bulldog named Astro. He is one of the most active Rays on Twitter.

Heads-up

This will be the first game action on the new AstroTurf surface at the Trop; initial reviews have been positive but that it plays a tad slow.

Regular season

Friday: vs. Orioles, 7:10. Rays — LHP David Price; O's — RHP Jeremy Guthrie

Who is this Ray answer: LHP David Price

Marc Topkin, Times staff writer

Times wires
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

college football

fiesta bowl dumps ceo

PHOENIX — The Fiesta Bowl fired president and CEO John Junker after a scathing internal report released Tuesday found "an apparent scheme" to reimburse employees for political contributions and "an apparent conspiracy" to cover it up.

The reimbursements, listed as at least $46,539, appear to violate state and federal campaign finance laws. The Arizona attorney general's office is investigating. The BCS said it would investigate to consider whether the Fiesta should remain a BCS bowl game or be otherwise sanctioned.

The Fiesta board of directors voted unanimously to fire Junker for "improper and inappropriate activities" documented in the report. Junker had been the face of the event for three decades, leading it from upstart to one of the BCS giants. He had been on paid leave since Feb. 4. His attorney, Steve Dichter, said the document was being studied before it was determined whether Junker would have a comment on it.

more colleges

UF's Weis sued over charity home

An Indiana home builder alleges in a lawsuit that Florida offensive coordinator and ex-Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis; his wife, Maura, and another builder violated copyright laws in building a house for developmentally disabled adults in the Weis' charity in South Bend, Ind. The Weises told the South Bend Tribune they found it "incomprehensible" a builder would sue over a home for people with special needs. A spokesman for the builder being sued, Custom Homes of South Bend, said the suit, filed by Garden Homes by E.L. in South Bend, has no merit.

FSU downs Florida: FSU (19-6) broke a 2-2 tie by scoring on a misplayed infield fly in the sixth and beat UF (21-5) 5-2 in Jacksonville.

ET CETERA

jurisprudence: A man who arranged for a 16-year-old girl to meet Pro Football Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor for sex pleaded guilty, agreeing to serve more than seven years in prison. Rasheed Davis, 37, will be sentenced Aug. 10. Taylor last week pleaded guilty to sexual misconduct and patronizing a prostitute.

soccer: Cobi Jones, who played more games for the U.S. men's team than anyone else, was elected to the U.S. Hall of Fame with three-time World Cup veterans Eddie Pope and Earnie Stewart. … Bengals receiver Chad Ochocinco got a spot on MLS Kansas City's reserve team. … Paraguay beat the United States 1-0 at Nashville.

tennis: Tampa resident Mardy Fish beat Juan Martin del Potro 7-5, 7-6 (7-5) to make the Sony Ericsson Open quarterfinals at Key Biscayne. Also advancing were Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Kim Clijsters, who beat Ana Ivanovic 7-6 (7-4), 3-6, 7-6 (7-5).

Times wires

Nathan Cowan, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

ST. PETERSBURG — Tampa Catholic scored three runs in the top of the first inning Tuesday and behind a dominant pitching performance from Tori Bohanan beat Canterbury 5-0.

"I have a really good pitching coach," Bohanan said. "He gets me in the mind-set and focused in the first inning."

With one out in the first inning, Raven Sepulveda and Erin Reynolds reached on singles. After a groundout, Krista Garcia singled to score Sepulveda. Kimberly Rogers hit what appeared to be the third out but the ball was dropped, allowing Garcia and Reynolds to score and put Tampa Catholic up 3-0.

"I really like having a lead when I pitch," Bohanan said. "It gives me confidence."

Canterbury (8-3) wasn't able muster any offense in the first inning and Tampa Catholic tacked on two more runs in the second. With two out Amber Hay singled and Sepulveda followed with a double to put runners on second and third. Reynolds singled to score both runners and give Tampa Catholic (9-1) a 5-0 lead.

Canterbury changed pitchers but the damage was done. Bohanan pitched 51/3 no-hit innings, giving up only one walk.

"She pitched awesome," Tampa Catholic coach Vern Tatum said. "They're (Canterbury) a good team that had an off day."

Canterbury got its only two hits in the sixth inning. Whitney Laurent doubled and Sarah Fleming singled but neither scored.

Sepulveda led Tampa Catholic with a double, a single and two runs scored. Reynolds added two singles, two RBIs and a run scored.

Krissy Longstreet came on in relief for Canterbury and gave up only two hits while striking out six in 51/3 innings.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Boucher: I overpracticed players in February

TAMPA — If there was a point when Lightning players lost a bit of steam this season, it was during their 12-game February homestand, said coach Guy Boucher, who admitted he made a "little mistake" pushing extra practice time.

Boucher said he wanted to make up for practice time lost during a travel-heavy first half of the season.

"That was probably a little mistake we made in February," he said Tuesday, a day after wing Marty St. Louis said the team "hit a wall" during its 3-6-4 skid.

"The entire year we gave a lot of rest to the players because we're a hard-grinding team and all the games we push so hard. But we missed so many practices, we wanted to catch up. That kind of threw us off a little bit in terms of rest. We caught up enough in practices, but catching up in practices doesn't necessarily mean wins. We've gone back to resting some guys."

And giving the team more days off ahead of the playoffs, Boucher said.

"Sometimes you just need a break from going on the ice," said center Steven Stamkos, off three of the past seven days. "Sometimes rest is a weapon."

"And," Boucher said, "we haven't taken enough of that weapon lately."

Damian Cristodero, Times staff writer

Basil Spyridakos, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

SEMINOLE — The opening game in the 20th annual Steve Georgiadis Holiday Tournament wasn't pretty, and it didn't have anything to do with inclement weather that set the schedule back a day.

The teams combined for eight errors but Shorecrest found a way to open up the game late, defeating Brooks-DeBartolo 6-3 Wednesday evening.

"You've got a lot of good teams in this tournament and we want to play the best teams we can play," Shorecrest coach Don Reed said. "It was a nice win."

Brooks-DeBartolo (6-9) struck first in the third inning when Tremayn Hopps scored from second base on two throwing errors.

The Chargers would answer in the top of the fourth. With one out and a runner on second, Jon Oorlog ripped a shot to shallow rightfield. Deshun Bollings mishandled the ball, allowing Spencer Heath to round third and score.

Javier Reynosa would break the tie in the bottom of the fourth on a home run to centerfield giving the Phoenix a 2-1 lead, but it was short-lived.

Shorecrest (13-6) inflicted serious damage and exploded for four runs in the fifth. With runners on the corners, Oorlog hit an RBI double into centerfield, followed by a two-RBI single by Brian Kinter to take a 4-2 lead.

A stolen base by Kinter and a throwing error allowed the senior outfielder to cross home.

"The fifth inning got us," Brooks-DeBartolo coach Donnie Oliver said. "Riley Crispell did a great job for us on the mound, but we started making mistakes in the field that hurt us."

Two more throwing errors scored the Chargers' John Schiff in the sixth. Brooks-DeBartolo scored once more in the seventh.

Jordan Lindsey (4-1) threw a complete game with six hits, nine strikeouts and three runs, one earned.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

TAMPA — If Lightning C Steven Stamkos is bothered he fell behind Anaheim's Corey Perry in the goal-scoring race, he did not let on.

Stamkos even said reaching 50 goals is not a priority. With seven games left entering Tuesday, he had 43, one behind Perry.

"That's not something on my mind right now," he said. "I'm just focused on getting my game ready for this last push to the playoffs and get it to where I'm comfortable and confident. Whatever happens production-wise, happens."

He said he is more than happy to trade goals for the postseason:

"That's the main thing I'm excited about. It's something I've never experienced, and that's what my main focus is."

Stamkos, 21, who last season tied Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby for the league lead with 51 goals, entered Tuesday in a steep slump, with three goals in 21 games.

He hasn't played badly lately. Coach Guy Boucher said Stamkos had nine scoring chances in Saturday's 4-2 win over Carolina, and the coach apparently no longer keeps up with all the posts Stamkos hits.

"I told him the post can't exist anymore," Boucher joked. "It's just become a song — 'beep, beep, beep.' It's enough."

Seriously, though, Boucher said Stamkos is being too fine with his shots and just needs to get pucks on net.

Stamkos agreed. "Sometimes when you go through these things, you think it's going to take the perfect shot."

"It's a great thing for his career that he figures out how to get out of (the slump)," Boucher said. "The good thing is, the longer he doesn't score, the better for us, because if we do get in the playoffs, it's the perfect time to get out of it."

GAGNE RISING: There is no secret formula as to why he suddenly got hot, Simon Gagne said.

"I just stuck to what I was doing even when I was struggling," said the left wing, who entered Tuesday with six goals and 10 points in his previous six games. "I wasn't getting too negative, just staying at the same level all the time and be positive."

Boucher sees a difference.

"Physically involved," he said. "If you look at (Saturday's win against the Hurricanes), I have about 20 clips of him finishing checks or winning battles and forcing himself with the puck or without the puck at their net."

MALONE SIGHTING: W Ryan Malone, out 21 games with what is believed to be a groin injury, is expected to play Thursday against the Penguins.

ODDS AND ENDS: Hillsborough Sheriff David Gee, in a between-periods presentation, recognized the management of the St. Pete Times Forum for efforts to reduce drunken driving by inviting deputies to conduct training sessions with arena employees about responsible alcohol serving. … Sun Sports' Inside the Lightning: Blueprint for Success is at 10:30 p.m. Thursday. … D Matt Smaby and F Mattias Ritola were scratched.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

TAMPA — Lightning coach Guy Boucher made sure C Steven Stamkos was on the ice Tuesday when the Senators pulled their goalie.

"He deserved a goal," Boucher said. "He's deserved a goal so many games."

Stamkos got his 44th to tie Anaheim's Corey Perry for the league lead but only his first in seven games and fourth in 22. "Sometimes," Stamkos said, "all it takes is a goal like that."

Stamkos is not predicting 50 goals for the second straight season. He needs six in his last six games for that.

He said he is not even concerned with the milestone: "That's not on my mind right now. I'm just focused on getting my game ready for this last push to the playoffs and get it to where I'm comfortable and confident. Whatever happens production-wise, happens."

Stamkos had eight shots in the 5-2 victory over Ottawa. Boucher praised his two-way game, from where so much offense is triggered.

Stamkos delivered the hit of the game when he leveled Ryan Shannon with a clean face-to-face blow.

"I'm really confident in my game right now," Stamkos said. "I feel strong out there. My skating is good. I'm driving the puck to the net."

Still, Boucher said he believes Stamkos has been too fine with his shots and just needs to get pucks on net.

Perhaps that is why he hit so many posts. Boucher said he joked with Stamkos that "the post can't exist anymore."

Stamkos agreed. "Sometimes when you go through these things, you think it's going to take the perfect shot."

That is why the open net was such a nice target, though he could have passed to C Dominic Moore, who was one goal shy of a hat trick.

"But everyone on the bench was screaming 'You're alone.' When I chipped it by (Ottawa D) Erik Karlsson, I kind of had a breakaway."

And a long-awaited goal.

GAGNE RISING: There is no secret why he suddenly got hot, Simon Gagne said.

"I just stuck to what I was doing even when I was struggling," said the left wing, with six goals and 12 points in seven games. "I wasn't getting negative, stay at the same level and be positive."

Boucher sees a difference.

"Physically involved," he said. "If you look at (Saturday's win against the Hurricanes), I have about 20 clips of him finishing checks or winning battles and forcing himself with the puck or without the puck at their net."

MALONE SIGHTING: W Ryan Malone, out 21 games with what is believed to be a groin injury, is expected to play Thursday against the Penguins.

ODDS AND ENDS: Hillsborough Sheriff David Gee recognized the management of the St. Pete Times Forum for efforts to reduce drunken driving by inviting deputies to conduct training sessions with arena employees about responsible alcohol serving. … Sun Sports' Inside the Lightning: Blueprint for Success is at 10:30 p.m. Thursday. … D Matt Smaby and F Mattias Ritola were scratched.

Times wires
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

SAN FRANCISCO — Rockies first baseman Jason Giambi and brother Jeremy testified Tuesday that Barry Bonds' personal trainer supplied them with performance-enhancing drugs.

They were the first athletes called to testify at Bonds' perjury trial, which is in its second week.

Jason Giambi testified that he met trainer Greg Anderson after the 2002 season, and Giambi said he paid Anderson about $10,000 for several shipments of steroids known as "the clear" and "the cream" designed to evade detection starting in late 2002 and through the beginning of the 2003 baseball season.

Bonds attorney Cris Arguedas read Jason Giambi's 2003 grand jury testimony when he testified that Anderson had told him "the clear and the cream had steroidlike effects without being a steroid." Giambi agreed with that testimony.

Marvin Benard, Bonds' teammate with the Giants, also testified he bought steroids from Anderson and used them.

Bonds lawyer Allen Ruby said Bonds used the steroids but believed Anderson when he told him they were legal supplements.

Phils' Lidge sidelined: Phillies closer Brad Lidge is expected to miss 3-6 weeks after an MRI exam showed he has a strained right shoulder. The reliever will not need surgery and will start the season on the disabled list.

Concussion rules: MLB and its players' union announced a set of protocols for dealing with concussions, including the creation of a seven-day DL for players with the injury, mandatory baseline testing for all players and umpires and new steps for evaluating players who might have suffered the injury and for having them return to action.

Japan aid: Hideki Matsui and the A's have raised more than $50,000 to help with the relief efforts in Japan after this month's earthquake and tsunami.

Cubs: Right-hander Matt Garza gave up 11 hits and seven runs in three-plus innings in a 15-8 loss to the Diamondbacks. The former Ray's spring ERA hit 10.38.

Dodgers: Right-hander Chad Billingsley signed a four-year deal worth about $41.3 million.

Mariners: Gold Glove centerfielder Franklin Gutierrez (illness) went on the 15-day DL, mlb.com reported.

Mets: Right-hander Blaine Boyer earned the final bullpen spot.

Orioles: Right-hander Justin Duchscherer (hip strain) went on the 15-day DL.

Rangers: Left-hander C.J. Wilson (left hamstring tightness) says he will be ready to start Friday's opener against the Red Sox.

Bryan Burns, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

NEW PORT RICHEY — With the regular-season schedule in its final week, the River Ridge and Wiregrass Ranch girls programs have established themselves as the teams to beat in Pasco County.

Tuesday, they met on the court for the first time this year, and if their initial meeting is any indication, both teams should see plenty of each other in the postseason.

After five hours of nip-and-tuck action, Tuesday's heavyweight bout came down to the final match at No. 2 doubles. And after fighting their way through two tiebreakers and a winner-take-all third set tiebreak, the team of Taylor Laroue and Julie Quina prevailed to give River Ridge a 4-3 victory over previously unbeaten Wiregrass Ranch.

Laroue and Quina won the first set in a tiebreaker over Jordanyne Fye and Anne Cypriano and had three match points in the second set but failed to capitalize. Fye and Cypriano won a second set tiebreaker, and because darkness wouldn't allow the doubles teams to play a complete third set, another tiebreaker was played immediately following the second set, which Laroue and Quina won 10-7 to end the match.

"They were a really good team. They were solid," Laroue said. "It was a tight one. I'm sure we'll see them again in districts."

Wiregrass Ranch (10-1) led three matches to two after singles play, thanks to a comeback effort from No. 1 singles player Hannah Still. Facing River Ridge's Tijana Subotic in a match between player of the year candidates, Still lost the first set 6-1 but broke Subotic's serve to open the second and held serve throughout to take the set 6-4. In the third, Still prevailed in a back-and-forth opening game to break then held her serve in another tightly contested game.

From there, Subotic ran out of gas as Still took the final set 6-1.

"I think that first game of the third set was a turning point for me," Still said. "Once I won that, I was pumped. I was ready to go for the rest of the match."

Fye defeated Quina 6-4, 6-0 at No. 4 singles and Cypriano was a 6-0, 6-2 winner over Kaitlyn Howery at No. 5 singles to account for the rest of the Bulls' victories.

River Ridge's Jordyn Garcia defeated Leliani Cubero 6-0, 6-1 at No. 2 singles, and Laroue upended Katie Bonti 6-2, 6-1 at No. 3 singles to keep the Royal Knights (14-1) in the match.

Subotic and Garcia blanked Still and Bonti 8-0 at No. 1 doubles, setting up the winner-take-all match at No. 2 doubles.

Derek J. LaRiviere, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

SPRING HILL — Less than a month after topping Springstead on its homefield, Bishop McLaughlin completed the season sweep on the road Tuesday.

Led by Cy Beermann on the mound, the Hurricanes won a two-hit 4-0 shutout over the Eagles.

Bishop McLaughlin (11-5) started the season 0-3 but has since been confident behind the strength of its deep pitching staff. The first time the program defeated Springstead, Andy Olaniel pitched a four-hit complete game. This time around Beermann (six strikeouts, one walk, two hits) finished the complete-game effort.

"Cy has gotten better every start," Hurricanes coach Nick Rodriguez said. "He listens and he really trusts his stuff."

The confidence Rodriguez has in Beermann and Olaniel will only add to what he sees in his top pitcher, David Heintz, as Bishop McLaughlin heads toward postseason play.

"Obviously, our ace is David Heintz," Rodriguez said. "To me, it says we have the patience to get guys out with off-speed stuff with our other pitchers, as well as the overpowering stuff when David is on the mound."

Springstead (12-6) was on a six-game winning streak coming in, but only Brandon Brosher and Julian Perez were able to muster hits for the usually potent lineup, which came in hitting .311 with 10 home runs as a Class 5A team.

Rodriguez sees it as a major accomplishment for Class 2A Bishop McLaughlin to attain two wins over a program like Springstead.

"The real nice part is getting out and playing other North Suncoast teams," he said. "We really want to be able to schedule some of the other schools around us, and Springstead has always been one of the real competitive schools around here."

Times wires
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

DALLAS — In the 18 months before Dez Bryant signed with the Cowboys, he bought at least seven men's watches and two for women. He paid $65,500 for a diamond cross made of white gold and $60,000 for a custom charm. He ordered dog tags made of white gold and diamonds, and rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces in various shades of gold, nearly all crammed with diamonds.

And finally, according to two Texas lawsuits, Bryant ponied up for tickets to Cowboys and Mavericks playoff games, and to see LeBron James play. He also acquired cash, at least $35,000.

Bryant got it all through a line of credit, the lawsuits say, with the understanding that he'd settle up once he signed his first pro contract.

A man from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and a New York company, are seeking a total of $861,350, plus interest and attorneys fees.

Bryant's attorney, state Sen. Royce West, called the lawsuits "sheer allegations."

Jets' ainge details drug use: Jets backup quarterback Erik Ainge said he is recovering from a lengthy battle with substance abuse that has derailed his career.

Ainge, 24, said he is also dealing with bipolar disorder.

He said he "was a really bad drug addict" and "would've made Charlie Sheen look like Miss Daisy." He added that he overdosed several times and abused prescription medications, cocaine, heroin, marijuana and alcohol.

Ainge said he has been clean since entering rehabilitation in July, his longest stint of sobriety since he was 11. A fifth-round pick in 2008 out of Tennessee, Ainge missed last season. His future with the Jets is uncertain.

labor update: Each player who contributed to a lockout fund can begin collecting up to a total of about $60,000. After setting aside union dues and royalties during recent seasons, eligible players can draw from the fund April 15. NFL Players Association head DeMaurice Smith said March 18 that money was available to help players while they are not receiving paychecks during the lockout,. The NFLPA sent players an e-mail that its board of player directors "approved the payout from the Lockout Fund to begin on April 15, in six installments or until the lockout ends."

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

TAMPA — Texas police obtained felony arrest warrants Tuesday for Bucs cornerback Aqib Talib and his mother in connection with a shooting in Garland, Texas, last week.

Talib, 25, will be charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a second-degree felony punishable by two to 20 years in prison. His bail was set at $25,000.

Talib, considered one of the team's best defensive players, is expected to surrender this week, Garland Police spokesman Joe Harn said.

Talib's arrest could jeopardize his career with the Buccaneers, or any other National Football League team. He has had several off-the-field incidents since being chosen in the first round of the 2008 draft and was suspended by the league for one game last season after being accused of punching a St. Petersburg cab driver in 2009.

"We are deeply troubled by the serious charges filed against Aqib Talib," Bucs general manager Mark Dominik said in a statement. "Due to current labor circumstances, we will withhold any further comment or action."

Because of the current work stoppage in the NFL, teams are prohibited from contacting players or making transactions, including releasing players. However, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said last week the league's player code of conduct will cover transgressions that occur during the lockout and be enforced when a new labor agreement is reached.

Talib's mother, Okolo, turned herself in Tuesday morning and was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. She was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, based on a previous conviction. Bail was set at $25,000 for the assault charge and $5,000 for the possession charge.

The arrest of Talib and his mother stems from their roles in a domestic disturbance March 21 involving his sister, Saran, 43, and her boyfriend, Shannon Billings, police said.

Police said they arrived in the 900 block of Green Pond Drive in Garland, a Dallas suburb, at 7:30 p.m. after a 911 caller reported fighting, including gunshots. Police said they found Billings, 40, alone outside his residence.

According to a report Monday in the Dallas Observer, which cited the Garland police and two unnamed sources familiar with the case, Talib attempted to pistol-whip Billings with a handgun, which was dropped in the struggle. Billings picked it up and began running. Okolo produced another handgun and fired at least three times before Aqib used it to fire twice more at Billings, according to the report.

Harn, the police spokesman, said information detectives gathered at the scene and in follow-up investigations led police to conclude Aqib physically assaulted and then fired shots at Billings, who was not injured.

Billings, who is a registered sex offender in Texas, later was taken into custody and charged with aggravated assault with bodily injury and interference with an emergency phone call, relating to an incident at his address earlier in the day.

In Texas, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon is a very serious charge, said lawyer Kevin Ross of the Dallas criminal defense firm Sorrels, Udashen & Anton.

Though Talib could be eligible for community-control probation instead of prison if he has no prior felony offenses, Ross said, many factors play into that decision and "it would be more difficult if a firearm is actually discharged at an individual."

Probation for a second-degree felony runs up to 10 years. For Talib to keep playing for the Bucs during that time if that was a penalty he received, Florida authorities would have to agree to supervise his community control. Officials for the Florida Department of Corrections could not be reached for comment as to whether they would agree to supervise a Texas probationer.

The arrest warrant is the first step in criminal proceedings, Ross said. The Dallas County state attorney's office will have to decide whether the evidence is sufficient to take the case to a grand jury to try to get an indictment.

Harn estimated that it would take four to six weeks for a grand jury to hear the case against Talib.

Talib's talent never has been in question, but the Bucs, under the direction of former coach Jon Gruden and former general manager Bruce Allen, may have ignored numerous red flags before deciding to draft him.

Talib's off-field problems surfaced while he was a standout defensive back at Berkner High School in Richardson, Texas. Talib was arrested in April 2004 for burglary, according to Dallas County court records, but the charge was reduced to a misdemeanor, and Talib received two years of probation.

During interviews with teams at the NFL scouting combine in 2008, Talib said he tested positive for marijuana three times while playing at the University of Kansas, according to the magazine Pro Football Weekly.

From the start of his pro career, Talib has had difficulty controlling his emotions, resulting in significant fines from the Bucs and last year's one-game suspension. Bucs coach Raheem Morris has called Talib his "wild child."

Shortly after being drafted, Talib got into a fight with then-teammate Cory Boyd at the NFL's rookie symposium. In May 2009, Talib inadvertently hit former Bucs cornerback Torrie Cox in the face with a helmet, which he was swinging at left tackle Donald Penn during an argument. Cox required stitches to close a cut.

Last year, Talib agreed to a deal with prosecutors to resolve a battery charge after he was accused of hitting St. Petersburg cab driver David Duggan while Talib was a passenger in the cab. He was ordered to perform community service and attend anger management classes. He also reached an undisclosed financial settlement with Duggan.

Despite missing five games last year, the last four with a hip injury, Talib was named the NFL alumni's defensive back of the year after recording six interceptions, giving him 15 in his three-year career.

Staff writers Stephen Nohlgren, Stephen F. Holder and Times Senior Researcher John Martin contributed to this report.

Times wires
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

CLEVELAND — Cleveland got the win it wanted most.

Despite blowing a 23-point lead, the Cavs beat the Heat 102-90 on Tuesday night, getting a small dose of satisfaction against LeBron James, who was making his second visit to Cleveland since bolting last summer.

J.J. Hickson scored 21 and Anthony Parker scored 20 for the Cavs, who were embarrassed by the Heat 118-90 on Dec. 2 — a night when Cleveland fans unleashed hatred on James.

This time, it was James who left the floor beaten. He finished with 27 points, 12 assists and 10 rebounds and endured constant booing from fans.

James took the loss in stride, giving the Cavs credit.

"Any time we play anybody, we know we're going to get the best out of them," James said. "They came out and played extremely well. It was a good win for them."

For at least one night, Cleveland rocked again.

"This was for the fans and for their support," Cavs guard Daniel Gibson said. "They've stayed behind us, and this was a way of saying thank you."

In the closing seconds, the sellout crowd of 20,562 erupted.

And on the floor afterward, Parker, whose last 3-pointer with 2:47 left capped a 12-0 run, addressed Cavs fans.

"You guys deserve it," he said.

The Heat rallied from a 71-48 deficit, tying it at 83-all on Mike Bibby's seventh 3-pointer with 7:03 left. But Miami went scoreless for 4:24, allowing the Cavs to get their 15th win.

Wade added 24 for the Heat, which had its winning streak stopped at five.

Kings saga: The Anaheim City Council unanimously approved a $75 million bond deal to entice the Kings to relocate to Orange County. Council members voted 5-0 for the measure to a round of applause, calling it another major step in luring the Kings to Honda Center. Anaheim Mayor Tom Tait repeatedly emphasized that the city has no financial risk in the deal and that Anaheim is a conduit for a private investment by Henry Samueli, the billionaire owner of the NHL's Ducks. The Kings must file for relocation by April 18.

Game highlights: Kevin Durant scored 39, Russell Westbrook hit the winning free throw with 11.4 seconds left in overtime, and the host Thunder held on for a 115-114 victory over the Warriors. … Kyle Lowry had 16 points, 10 assists and seven rebounds, and the visiting Rockets moved within two games of the final playoff berth in the West with a 112-87 win over the Nets.

Around the league: Timberwolves power forward-center Kevin Love plans to return tonight against the Bulls after missing the past three games with a strained left groin. … Nets guard Deron Williams, out since March 18 with a wrist injury, is expected to return tonight against the Knicks.

Cavaliers 102, Heat 90

MIAMI (90): James 10-21 6-10 27, Bosh 5-14 0-2 10, Dampier 0-0 0-0 0, Bibby 7-11 2-2 23, Wade 8-20 6-8 24, Ilgauskas 0-1 0-0 0, Howard 2-2 0-0 4, Jones 1-6 0-0 2, Anthony 0-2 0-0 0, House 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 33-78 14-22 90.

CLEVELAND (102): Gee 3-3 0-0 6, Hickson 6-13 9-10 21, Hollins 3-4 7-12 13, Davis 4-10 0-0 10, Parker 7-9 2-3 20, Sessions 3-6 5-8 11, Gibson 2-5 0-0 5, Harangody 4-7 0-0 9, Eyenga 3-6 0-2 7, Graham 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 35-63 23-35 102.

Miami 24 18 28 20— 90

Cleveland 24 29 22 27— 102

3-Point Goals—Miami 10-25 (Bibby 7-11, Wade 2-4, James 1-5, Jones 0-5), Cleveland 9-17 (Parker 4-4, Davis 2-6, Eyenga 1-2, Harangody 1-2, Gibson 1-3). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Miami 42 (James 10), Cleveland 51 (Hickson 12). Assists—Miami 24 (James 12), Cleveland 25 (Davis 7). Total Fouls—Miami 25, Cleveland 23. Technicals—Wade, Hollins. A—20,562 (20,562).

Rockets 112, Nets 87

HOUSTON (112): Budinger 4-11 0-0 10, Scola 4-10 0-0 8, Hayes 3-11 2-2 8, Lowry 6-13 1-1 16, Martin 7-18 4-4 20, Lee 4-8 0-0 9, Patterson 6-9 1-1 13, Hill 5-8 1-2 11, Dragic 5-6 0-0 13, Carroll 0-2 0-0 0, Miller 1-1 0-0 2, Harris 1-2 0-0 2. Totals 46-99 9-10 112.

NEW JERSEY (87): Morrow 4-14 0-0 9, Humphries 3-10 0-0 6, Lopez 10-16 2-5 22, Farmar 4-10 0-0 12, Vujacic 4-9 2-2 11, Petro 4-12 1-1 9, Outlaw 1-6 2-2 4, Uzoh 5-7 0-0 10, Graham 1-1 0-0 2, Wright 1-2 0-0 2, Gadzuric 0-2 0-0 0. Totals 37-89 7-10 87.

Houston 34 27 22 29— 112

New Jersey 21 22 20 24— 87

3-Point Goals—Houston 11-23 (Dragic 3-4, Lowry 3-7, Budinger 2-4, Martin 2-6, Lee 1-2), New Jersey 6-16 (Farmar 4-6, Morrow 1-5, Vujacic 1-5). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Houston 60 (Hayes 14), New Jersey 49 (Humphries 13). Assists—Houston 30 (Lowry 10), New Jersey 20 (Farmar 7). Total Fouls—Houston 8, New Jersey 10. Flagrant Fouls—Outlaw. A—13,866 (18,500).

Thunder 115, Warriors 114, OT

GOLDEN STATE (114): Wright 2-13 1-2 7, Lee 11-17 2-3 24, Udoh 4-11 4-4 12, Curry 13-23 4-4 35, Ellis 9-30 0-0 20, Williams 3-4 2-2 10, Amundson 1-1 2-2 4, Thornton 1-5 0-0 2. Totals 44-104 15-17 114.

OKLAHOMA CITY (115): Durant 13-23 10-12 39, Ibaka 9-16 1-1 19, Perkins 0-3 0-2 0, Westbrook 4-15 7-8 15, Sefolosha 2-5 2-2 7, Harden 5-10 3-3 14, Mohammed 3-5 2-2 8, Maynor 2-3 0-0 4, Cook 2-8 3-3 9. Totals 40-88 28-33 115.

Golden State 29 21 27 29 8— 114

Oklahoma City 25 33 20 28 9— 115

3-Point Goals—Golden State 11-26 (Curry 5-8, Williams 2-3, Ellis 2-6, Wright 2-8, Thornton 0-1), Oklahoma City 7-21 (Durant 3-5, Cook 2-8, Sefolosha 1-2, Harden 1-5, Maynor 0-1). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Golden State 53 (Lee 15), Oklahoma City 62 (Perkins 13). Assists—Golden State 25 (Ellis 11), Oklahoma City 24 (Westbrook 9). Total Fouls—Golden State 23, Oklahoma City 20. Technicals—Golden State defensive three second. A—18,203 (18,203).

Times wires
Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Jalen Rose's recent comment that he considered black Duke players like Grant Hill "Uncle Toms" was insulting to everyone at the school, Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski said Tuesday.

Krzyzewski responded on a radio show Tuesday to a question about Rose's remarks during a recently aired ESPN documentary about Michigan's Fab Five teams, which went to two Final Fours in the early 1990s.

It was revealed Tuesday that Rose was arrested last month on suspicion of drunken driving in Michigan (see 1C).

Krzyzewski was interviewed on ESPN 1000 in Chicago.

"I just think that sometimes people say things to get attention so that they can sell their documentary," he said. "Obviously, that was a poor choice of words and very insulting to everyone here at Duke but especially, not just our African-American players, but any African-American students."

Krzyzewski called the Fab Five "good kids," but he suggested they had nothing to show for it.

The Fab Five lost the 1992 national title game to Duke then to North Carolina in the 1993 final. Michigan later forfeited its wins after it was revealed that some players, including star Chris Webber, had accepted money from a Michigan booster.

After the controversy arose, Rose said his feelings about Duke were applicable at the time, when he was a teenager.

CALHOUN DECISION: Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun, 68, said he won't make a decision on his future until well after his team's trip to the Final Four.

COACH'S GRANDFATHER DIES: Walter King, the grandfather of VCU coach Shaka Smart, died Tuesday. He was 90. Smart, who still plans to travel with the Rams to the Final Four today, said his grandfather was the "second biggest influence in my life" and helped develop his appreciation for basketball.

OFF TO NBA, MAYBE: Pittsburgh junior guard Ashton Gibbs, Maryland sophomore center Jordan Williams and UCLA junior guard Malcolm Lee filed to enter the NBA draft. But none plan to hire an agent, and all have until May 8 to withdraw and preserve their college eligibility.

MEMPHIS: Coach Josh Pastner signed a five-year contract extension, worth $1.7 million annually, through the 2015-2016 season.

MISSOURI: Purdue coach Matt Painter will meet with officials at the Big 12 school regarding the Tigers' vacant position.

PITINO CASE: The woman convicted of trying to extort money from Louisville coach Rick Pitino made another request for a new trial. A judge has rejected two other attempts by Karen Cunagin Sypher to win a new trial since her August conviction.

NIT: Garrett Stutz had a career-high 24 points with 11 rebounds as Wichita State routed Washington State 77-45 in the semifinals in New York. The Shockers (28-8) surpassed the 1954 team for the most wins in school history and face Alabama or Colorado on Thursday for the title. Washington State (22-13) shot 29.4 percent (15-of-41).