2012 NBA Recap and NBA Contender analysis PART 1
Ever since “the decision”, Lebron James has lived with a huge monkey on his back that in one season turned into a gorilla. Another season later and an unforgettable postseason performance, he lifted that monkey along with the 2012 NBA Larry Obrien Championship trophy. King James and company polished off the young Thunder in just 5 games. The Thunder won game 1, but the Heat would shake off that lost and never turn back, winning 4 straight easily. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook would have impressive showings in all of the games, but collectively as a team the young squad could not slow down the Heat. Miami was able to do whatever they wanted through the duration of the series. The Thunder would initially fool everyone into thinking this series would be a close one but the jig was clearly up after game 1. The Heat fueled by Lebron were clearly on a mission and mission accomplished. After winning in such an emphatic fashion, is a Miami repeat inevitable for next season or will other contenders make adjustments and get better?
(2012 NBA Season Recap) The 2012 NBA season was filled with a lot of uncertainties, beginning with a lockout that plagued the league and fans for 149 days. After a tentative agreement was reached, an 82 game season was crammed into 66 games. While angry fans anxiously waited, the league threw a schedule together that would challenge each team and the endurance of each player collectively. In the 98-99 shortened season, teams combined for 64 triple set games, which led to tired players, injuries, and sloppier play around the league. The 2012 season was certainly no differernt, players were no doubt more fatigued and prone to more injuries as well. Some players such as Dirk Nowitzki would opt to take days and even a week off for recuperation and conditioning. One group of players who weren’t fatigued or unconditioned were the big 3 of Miami. James, Wade, and Bosh would all play a series of exhibition games to keep fans entertained while also staying NBA ready. This off season play would keep the Heat gelling which ultimately led to an NBA championship.
Going into another off season, more uncertainties settle. What free agents will go where and what teams are on the cusp of success waiting for the right personnel change? IAMTHEINFLUENCE has narrowed downed the contenders, their pros and cons as well as possible personnel changes they will or will not make!
OKC: This off season will be a difficult one for the western conference champs. The 23 year old scoring champ Kevin Durant and guard Russell Westbrook got to the dance but couldn’t finish the job. This postseason will more than likely not yield any personnel changes but improvements are definitely in order for OKC. Starting with Durant, the phenomenal shooter needs to expand his comfort zone within the arc. For a few seasons now KD has been hearing people say bulk up, and after being beat up in the post by King James he may finally take heed to the advice. Also ownership on the floor will be vital for Durant and the Thunder in the future. At times the Thunder look leaderless especially after ill-advised shots by players other than there scoring champ.
Boston: There is a lot of speculation coming out of Beantown going into this offseason, mainly about the future of their elite. Veteran and eventual hall of famer Ray Allen, has been flirting with retirement for the past 2 seasons now. Allen who just finished his 14 season, is undoubtedly getting older but the question remains is his time up or is he fed up? Rumors have been swirling about his on and off the court feud this season with point guard, Rajon Rondo? At the end of the day Allen’s departure is more likely than a Rondo trade. Rondo has solidified himself as a premiere point guard in the league and established that the future of the Celtic nation is in his hands. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett are both beyond their prime and have very little left in the tank, so with all his playmakers aging, how much longer will Rondo have before the demolition of the Celtic dynasty begins? Only time will tell but don’t be surprise if you see the Celtics make a move with one of their big 3 in hopes to assist Rondo for the future. Resigning Brandon Bass will also be in the plans of Boston.
L.A Lakers: Kobe and the Lakers for once were under the radar this past season. As the regular season came to a close they would make a quiet run and grab the #2 seed in the playoffs. They would get by Denver but would be embarrassed by the younger OKC in the semi-finals. Kobe had one of his best scoring seasons this year by nearly edging out Durant for the scoring title. Going into next season Bryant clearly needs a new addition, or new additions to a bench that gave them little or no help. So far Lakers have resigned center Andrew Bynum, but are hurting at the point guard position and just lost newly acquired guard Ramone Sessions. The Lakers attempted to make a series of moves last year but this offseason they have rumored interest in guards Steve Nash and Deron Williams. Nash would be the likelier choice due to his age, experience, and ability to shoot the 3. Also Lakers are reportedly shopping forward Pao Gasol once again. The rumors suggest a few possible moves such as Chicago, and Washington but the Lakers will look for the perfect deal. Whichever move they decide to do it better be a swift one, the window for Laker great Kobe Bryant is closing soon.
Chicago: The Bulls are coming off a disappointing season plagued by the injury of their superstar and reigning MVP. Guard Derrick Rose, was already hampered by injuries during the season but to add insult to injury he would tear his ACL in game 1 of the playoffs against the 76ers. After the season ending injury it would ultimately end Chicago’s season as well. There will be a lot of what ifs had the 2011 MVP been healthy and advance to play Miami. Looking forward to next season, Bulls are certainly in the market for new additions and have definitely been exploring options. Great trade bait for the team will be rebounder and hustler Joakim Noah, who will possibly intrigue teams looking for a paint presence. Also in trade talks is forward Luol Deng, who just like Noah many teams would love to have his game, and they will when the right offer finally surfaces. When all the trades and rumors end the, Bulls would like to be in position to compete with the Miami Heat come playoff time.
N.Y Knicks: New York Knick fans were just about the happiest fans in the NBA after acquiring Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony. Since the acquisitions of both superstars there has been very little to be happy about in New York. The Knicks have been one of the most disappointing teams in the league. Except for the brief emergence of guard Jeremy Lin, the Knicks have had very few high notes this season. However they would slide in the playoffs, and squeak out a victory against Miami but would be ousted in 5 games. The chemistry-less Knicks are 1 of many teams suffering from “no point guard-syndrome”. This offseason that seems to be there focus, as rumors say they are biding heavy for guard Steve Nash. This would definitely give the backcourt a face lift and help gel All-Stars Stoudemire and Melo. The fans aren’t the only ones that seem to be unhappy; there was a reported locker room rift between the stars this season. Both have been lobbying for the leadership role, jousting to see whose team it is and where the focal point of the offense should be directed. When the offseason is over it will be interesting to see what moves are made and how Amare and Melo will co-exist.
in one season turned into a gorilla. Another season later and an unforgettable postseason performance, he lifted that monkey along with the 2012 NBA Larry Obrien Championship trophy. King James and company polished off the young Thunder in just 5 games. The Thunder won game 1, but the Heat would shake off that lost and never turn back, winning 4 straight easily. Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook would have impressive showings in all of the games, but collectively as a team the young squad could not slow down the Heat. Miami was able to do whatever they wanted through the duration of the series. The Thunder would initially fool everyone into thinking this series would be a close one but the jig was clearly up after game 1. The Heat fueled by Lebron were clearly on a mission and mission accomplished. After winning in such an emphatic fashion, is a Miami repeat inevitable for next season or will other contenders make adjustments and get better?
(2012 NBA Season Recap) The 2012 NBA season was filled with a lot of uncertainties, beginning with a lockout that plagued the league and fans for 149 days. After a tentative agreement was reached, an 82 game season was crammed into 66 games. While angry fans anxiously waited, the league threw a schedule together that would challenge each team and the endurance of each player collectively. In the 98-99 shortened season, teams combined for 64 triple set games, which led to tired players, injuries, and sloppier play around the league. The 2012 season was certainly no differernt, players were no doubt more fatigued and prone to more injuries as well. Some players such as Dirk Nowitzki would opt to take days and even a week off for recuperation and conditioning. One group of players who weren’t fatigued or unconditioned were the big 3 of Miami. James, Wade, and Bosh would all play a series of exhibition games to keep fans entertained while also staying NBA ready. This off season play would keep the Heat gelling which ultimately led to an NBA championship.
Going into another off season, more uncertainties settle. What free agents will go where and what teams are on the cusp of success waiting for the right personnel change? IAMTHEINFLUENCE has narrowed downed the contenders, their pros and cons as well as possible personnel changes they will or will not make!
OKC: This off season will be a difficult one for the western conference champs. The 23 year old scoring champ Kevin Durant and guard Russell Westbrook got to the dance but couldn’t finish the job. This postseason will more than likely not yield any personnel changes but improvements are definitely in order for OKC. Starting with Durant, the phenomenal shooter needs to expand his comfort zone within the arc. For a few seasons now KD has been hearing people say bulk up, and after being beat up in the post by King James he may finally take heed to the advice. Also ownership on the floor will be vital for Durant and the Thunder in the future. At times the Thunder look leaderless especially after ill-advised shots by players other than there scoring champ.
Boston: There is a lot of speculation coming out of Beantown going into this offseason, mainly about the future of their elite. Veteran and eventual hall of famer Ray Allen, has been flirting with retirement for the past 2 seasons now. Allen who just finished his 14 season, is undoubtedly getting older but the question remains is his time up or is he fed up? Rumors have been swirling about his on and off the court feud this season with point guard, Rajon Rondo? At the end of the day Allen’s departure is more likely than a Rondo trade. Rondo has solidified himself as a premiere point guard in the league and established that the future of the Celtic nation is in his hands. Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett are both beyond their prime and have very little left in the tank, so with all his playmakers aging, how much longer will Rondo have before the demolition of the Celtic dynasty begins? Only time will tell but don’t be surprise if you see the Celtics make a move with one of their big 3 in hopes to assist Rondo for the future. Resigning Brandon Bass will also be in the plans of Boston.
L.A Lakers: Kobe and the Lakers for once were under the radar this past season. As the regular season came to a close they would make a quiet run and grab the #2 seed in the playoffs. They would get by Denver but would be embarrassed by the younger OKC in the semi-finals. Kobe had one of his best scoring seasons this year by nearly edging out Durant for the scoring title. Going into next season Bryant clearly needs a new addition, or new additions to a bench that gave them little or no help. So far Lakers have resigned center Andrew Bynum, but are hurting at the point guard position and just lost newly acquired guard Ramone Sessions. The Lakers attempted to make a series of moves last year but this offseason they have rumored interest in guards Steve Nash and Deron Williams. Nash would be the likelier choice due to his age, experience, and ability to shoot the 3. Also Lakers are reportedly shopping forward Pao Gasol once again. The rumors suggest a few possible moves such as Chicago, and Washington but the Lakers will look for the perfect deal. Whichever move they decide to do it better be a swift one, the window for Laker great Kobe Bryant is closing soon.
Chicago: The Bulls are coming off a disappointing season plagued by the injury of their superstar and reigning MVP. Guard Derrick Rose, was already hampered by injuries during the season but to add insult to injury he would tear his ACL in game 1 of the playoffs against the 76ers. After the season ending injury it would ultimately end Chicago’s season as well. There will be a lot of what ifs had the 2011 MVP been healthy and advance to play Miami. Looking forward to next season, Bulls are certainly in the market for new additions and have definitely been exploring options. Great trade bait for the team will be rebounder and hustler Joakim Noah, who will possibly intrigue teams looking for a paint presence. Also in trade talks is forward Luol Deng, who just like Noah many teams would love to have his game, and they will when the right offer finally surfaces. When all the trades and rumors end the, Bulls would like to be in position to compete with the Miami Heat come playoff time.
N.Y Knicks: New York Knick fans were just about the happiest fans in the NBA after acquiring Amare Stoudemire and Carmelo Anthony. Since the acquisitions of both superstars there has been very little to be happy about in New York. The Knicks have been one of the most disappointing teams in the league. Except for the brief emergence of guard Jeremy Lin, the Knicks have had very few high notes this season. However they would slide in the playoffs, and squeak out a victory against Miami but would be ousted in 5 games. The chemistry-less Knicks are 1 of many teams suffering from “no point guard-syndrome”. This offseason that seems to be there focus, as rumors say they are biding heavy for guard Steve Nash. This would definitely give the backcourt a face lift and help gel All-Stars Stoudemire and Melo. The fans aren’t the only ones that seem to be unhappy; there was a reported locker room rift between the stars this season. Both have been lobbying for the leadership role, jousting to see whose team it is and where the focal point of the offense should be directed. When the offseason is over it will be interesting to see what moves are made and how Amare and Melo will co-exist.
NBA FINALS MID - SERIES RECAP
3 games into the 2012 NBA Final and the Miami Heat have a 2-1 edge. In game 2, the Heat went to Oklahoma City and stole the Thunder! With a tight finish at the end Lebron and company would take the momentum and what seemed like the air out of the Chesapeake center. Lebron would finish with 32 points, while going 12 for 12 at the free throw line. His timely clutch buckets along with some big time play by Shane Battier would knot the series at 1 apiece headed to Miami.
Going into game 3, the Thunder had not played a great game yet. They would escape game 1 on the superb 4th quarter shooting by Kevin Durant. Durant dropped 17 big ones in game ones 4th quarter win but that’s about all OKC fans been able to brag about. In the opening minutes of game 3, the thunder would again start slow and sluggish. Heat would jump out to an early league and pretty much maintain that league for the better half of the game. Nearing the half, Thunder would close the gap and come within just one point gaining some momentum back. When the third quarter kicked off the Thunder would come out aggressive and run the floor. They haven’t been able to do too much sprinting but in the third they would race out to a 10 point lead. Minutes later they would allow Miami back in the game on back to back fouls at the 3 point line. Miami would chip away at the lead and rally the crowd by taking a 1 point lead heading into the last quarter. Oklahoma would start off the 4th quarter in transition, capitalizing on some turnovers which led to easy fast break points. Miami would return the favor by scoring on turnovers and silly ill-advised fouls by Durant and others. The fouls along with 9 missed free throws would prove costly towards the end. OKC could not stop the bleeding or Lebron James down the stretch and Miami would take 2 in a row and a 2-1 series lead. James would end up with 29 points 14 points and another clutch performance.
IAMINTHEINFLUENCE ANALYSIS: The Oklahoma city Thunder are lucky not be down 3-0 in the series. After 3 consecutive sluggish starts, the team full of youngsters led by the 23 year old scoring champ have found themselves in an unfamiliar place. They have not faced a hole like such in this entire postseason. They have merely hung around for 4 quarters and never have had control in each of the three games. The tandem of Durant and Westbrook has not exactly played like the usual Batman and Robin. It’s been Robin (Westbrook) who has looked the most comfortable and assume the leadership role. While Durant has had some great quarterly burst, (notably the 17 points in the 4th of game 1) he has yet to have a good game from start to finish. Kevin seems to only find his comfort zone from the outside. Westbrook has yielded a turnover on occasion but has looked like a seasoned veteran when scoring the ball. Harden hasn’t giving the x-factor performance consistently either, but still poses a threat. For OKC to steal this this next game in Miami they will have to jump out to a good start and not play from behind. Smart play and free throws are also key ingredients to a win.
The Miami Heat should feel really good about this 2-1 lead. The young Thunder looked demoralized and scared at moments. King James has not disappointed one bit, making every shot and doing whatever it takes on both sides of the ball. It is clear that James is taking this series serious and personal, as he looks like a man possessed out there. He has lived with all the criticism, and gripes of not being a clutch player but Lebron has certainly slung that monkey from his back making all the timely buckets possible. With equally great play, Dewayne Wade has also showed up to the big dance. With Wades tenacity, Bosh’s impressive rebounding and Shane Battier’s emergence beyond the arc Miami maybe preparing for glory.
Lebron James has been receiving clutch complaints since entering the league but in this postseason he has been Mr. Clutch2012 NBA FINALS: "BATTLE OF THE DUOS"
After coming off a very impressive conference final series wins, The Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder are both eyeing the Larry Obrien trophy. This year’s NBA Finals matchup might be one of the most highly anticipated series in quite some time. The Heat, led by this year’s MVP, Lebron James, are in the finals for the 2nd consecutive year. The Thunder are led by young phenom and reigning 3 time NBA scoring champion, Kevin Durant. Around this same time last year the NBA finals had the highest rated game 6 of all time, and this year is projected to be no different. Tonight’s game 1 will kick off in Oklahoma, at 9pm ET.
Kevin Durant and company took the toughest route available to get to this destination. The youngsters started off first by embarrassing the defending champion Dallas Mavericks. The Thunder would take 4 straight, sweeping and stunning everyone the league. They wouldn’t stop there; they would win 4 of 5 relatively easy games, defeating Kobe and the Lakers. As if that wasn’t already impressive enough, they would rally from an 0-2 deficit to win 4 straight against a veteran San Antonio Spurs team, who were on a 20 game win streak. What this team has done in the postseason is nothing short of incredible. The 23year old Kevin Durant isn’t alone either; he has a great supporting cast. Earning shares of the spotlight is the point guard Russell Westbrook. Westbrook this postseason is averaging 21.7 points to go along with 5 rebounds and 5 assist. He has certainly been the perfect complement to superstar Kevin Durant. The two have been an unstoppable duo the last few seasons. Also opening up things for both KD and Westbrook is the emergence and the all-around play from guard James Harden. The 6’5” guard/forward won his first ever 6th man trophy this year while being Mr. Intangible for OKC. Game after game Harden steps up makes a major impact, usually without scoring. How, this big 3 will fare against the big 3 of Miami will be at the very least entertaining.
The Miami Heat are making their 2nd consecutive appearance in this year’s NBA finals. After a lack luster and disappointing ending to last year’s season, the Heat led by their big 3 have been on a mission. I think no one question how good of a regular season they would have but rather how they would fare in the playoffs was and has always been one of the uncertainties surrounding the Heat. However, here they sit again in the finals with another chance to win a title. Miami made quick work of an underachieving New York Knicks team, beating them 4-1 with ease. Rolling into the next round were the Pacers, who put up more of a fight but in the end Miami was too much to handle for Indiana and they would fall 4-2. The eastern conference finals would be a rematch of foes between the Heat and experienced Celtics. Celtics would take a commanding 3-2 lead in Miami, but King James would answer back in game 6 with one of the best legendary performance’s ever seen leading to a victory. The deciding game 7 was a close one treading into the 4th quarter but collectively the big 3 would click on all cylinders, defeating Boston in Miami. Looking back at the numbers, Lebron James, has been very MVP like, posting stats you only see in video games. In the postseason James is producing 30 points, 9.6 rebounds and 6 assist, and 1 notable 45 point clinic. His counterpart Dewayne Wade hasn’t exactly been slacking himself, averaging 22, 5, and 4. These are not numbers he’s accustomed to but quite enough playing alongside James. The Heats third wheel, Chris Bosh has been seeing limited action due to injury, but has been quite effective as of late, including a 19 point, 8 rebound outburst in a deciding game 7 versus Boston.
Starting with the Boston Celtics, the NBA dawned a new era of basketball called the “the big 3”. Boston’s 3 went on to win a NBA Championship, since then Miami, New York, and L.A Clippers have all followed the big 3 formation. In Oklahoma City they have recently birthed a big 3 as well. For the last couple seasons Durant and Westbrook have been a very productive duo but this year they received some added help. Guard James Harden has become a premier off the bench scorer, making him a terrifying 3rd option. Harden is not only their 6th man, but a game changer on both sides of the ball.
With 2 virtually evenly matched teams, which core nucleus of players will pose the bigger threat and make the most impact?WHATS THE "DEAL" ?
There is a long season awaiting New Orleans Saints, beginning with a lot of off season uncertainties. One thing the organization is certain of is they want Drew Brees for the long haul. The Saints and the 2009 super bowl winning quarterback Drew Brees, have not openly discussed the terms of the negotiations just yet, but they do exist. The team is making it no secret they want their captain signed locked in. The QB has already been hit with the franchise tag, prohibiting him to talk to any other teams and vice versa. Brees has been very vocal about his future in New Orleans, stating many times he wants to stay put. To support his desire, the quarterback is currently not participating in any voluntary practices as well as minicamp until a deal is done. There is no doubt he is somewhat holding out for the Saints long term offer that will keep him in black and gold for quite some time.
There is no dispute that however many zeros and commas he gets, Brees is worth every penny. Along with a host of other career accomplishments, in 2011 Brees set a single season record with 468 completions on 5,476 yards. This will be his second go around at free agency. The first was in 2006, since then no other quarterback has completed more passes, for more yards or more touchdowns since Brees. That in itself is blockbuster contract worthy. With such an astonishing cast of numbers every year you wonder can he keep it up, but he hasn’t fail to yet. In the last 4 seasons, Brees and the Saints have won 3 division titles and brought the first ever Super Bowl ring home to the Superdome. His individual accolades along with the turnaround of the organization, boosted the morale of the city, providing a feel good story you only see in movies.
Getting back to the numbers, in 2006 the 33 year old settled happily, for a 6 year 60 mil deal that was clearly below the elite quarterback contracts. This time around Brees will quite obviously be wanting the big boy bucks, along with the Manning’s, and rightfully so. The long term deal talks will end on the July 16th deadline. After that the underrated quarterback will have to comply with the franchise tag offer or pull a no show and sit out. However, even with business being what it is, it’s hard to see a commendable guy like Brees sit out, but only time will tell. Recovering Brees will certainly put Saints team officials at ease, especially with the current off season spectacle that continues. Brees just may be the only light at the end of a long tunnel for the New Orleans Saints.
Getting back to the numbers, in 2006 the 33 year old settled happily, for a 6 year 60 mil deal that was clearly below the elite quarterback contracts. This time around Brees will quite obviously be wanting the big boy bucks, along with the Manning’s, and rightfully so. The long term deal talks will end on the July 16th deadline. After that the underrated quarterback will have to comply with the franchise tag offer or pull a no show and sit out. However, even with business being what it is, it’s hard to see a commendable guy like Brees sit out, but only time will tell. Recovering Brees will certainly put Saints team officials at ease, especially with the current off season spectacle that continues. Brees just may be the only light at the end of a long tunnel for the New Orleans Saints.2012 MTV MOVIE AWARDS
The stars were without a doubt in the building for the 2012 MTV movie awards. Live from University City, California at Gibson Amphitheatre, and hosted by the ever so colorful Russell Brand. The comedian /actor was up to his usual antics, bouncing all over the stage creating his one of kind high volume atmosphere. MTV certainly got their money’s worth out of Brand. Also making a scene on the stage were some great performances and unforgettable moments by big name actors. Some of the highly anticipated awards this year were movie of the year, best cast, MTV generation winner, and many more.
Opening up the night with the first performance was “Fun” (yes that’s their name). The named band rocked their performance of “We are young”. There was not a body left sitting down in the whole building, as the crowd was up and singing the hit song word for word. Joining the band was singer Janelle Monae. Monae followed the same well-dressed theme, wearing a spiffy black tux, as the band wore all white tuxedos. The next performance was undoubtedly the best one of the night, and clearly stole the show. “The black keys” duo performed their song “Gold on the Ceiling”, collaborating with none other than Johnny Depp. During the unique performance, Depp wowed everyone in attendance with his unknown ability to rock a microphone and stage. It was hard to tell whether the crowd was shocked more so due to Depp’s appearance, or performance, either way he did not disappoint. Other notable performances were that hip- hops own Wiz Khalifa. Wiz let his presence be felt with his easy to relate track “Work Hard, Play Hard”, a crowd pleaser for sure.
Overall it was a very eventful night at MTV’S annual start studded show. One of the most talked about moments of the night was Joe Maganiello, and his unusual wardrobe attire. The actor made a scripted interruption during the award presentation for “best on screen transformation”. Maganiello came to the stage in half of a fireman’s uniform. Armed with an axe as well, Maganiello handed Matthew Mcconaughey and Channing Tatum the envelope who eventually announced Elizabeth Banks as the winner. Highlighting the night as well were some newly implemented categories this year. “Best on screen Dirtbag” award would go to Jennifer Aniston, for her seductive role in “Horrible Bosses”. Harry Potter took home “Best Hero” in the social voting category. Also actress Emma Stone nabbed the first ever “MTV trailblazer award”
There was certainly some highly anticipated awards given out and some of the winners were no surprise. Bringing in the best movie award was “Twilight: breaking dawn”, the popular teen flick, lived up to the hype in the sequel. After stunning the world with a memorable performance, Johnny Depp took home MTV’s generation award, which was well deserved. Depp has never cease to amaze his viewers in any of his films for years now. Best male and female performance went to Jennifer Lawrence and Josh Hutchinson in the Hunger Games. Hunger Games is one of the highest grossing movies of all time. Last but not least, winning the best cast award was the cast of Harry Potter. The group has been together through a handful of adventurous movies and is easily one of the best series of any kind the big screen has ever seen.
For more awards and info of the 2012 MTV Movie Awards visit http://www.mtv.com/ontv/movieawards/2012/
TIGER'S COMEBACK
Lately we've rarely been accustomed to seeing Tiger Woods play like himself. However, at the Memorial, Mr. Woods was on top his game. Going into Sunday he faced a small deficit, but at the end of the last round of 18, Tiger was victorious, and had more than reason to celebrate.
Before closing out on Sunday, Woods hit a miraculous and memorable chip shot, and birdied 3 of his last 4 holes. On the 16th hole Tiger buried himself horribly in the rough. After leaving himself with a seemingly impossible lie, one would think he would opt for the safety net shot. Not at all, he would launch a gutsy 50 footer up and on to the green, which couldn't have rolled in more perfect if it was scripted. After a shot that some golfers only dream of, he closed in on Rory Sabatini and Andres Romero, going from 2 back to a 2 shot win, finishing with a 5 under, 67.
At the very tournament the Legend Jack Nicklaus made his mark at, Tiger would capture his 73rd victory and tie Jack Nicklaus for 2nd all-time in wins. The Memorial tournament was where Nicklaus reigned as king, dominating the course. It was fitting Tiger would win and tie the Golden Bear at that same tourney, as Nicklaus was in attendance. With 14 Major Championships, 4 shy of Jack, many figure Tiger is back on the chase for that crown as well.
It’s been a while since the media has been able to report on a series of positives for Tiger rather than his personal woes but with 11 days left until the U.S. Open, it will be interesting to see if he maintains this momentum, and reverts back to his winning ways.
