World Cup Bound: U.S. Tops Turkey 2-1 In Send Off Series Finale

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(Philadelphia, PA) - Despite a slow first half the U.S. National Soccer Team defeated Turkey 2-1 in their final international friendly on Saturday afternoon. This was the final match before the squad heads to South Africa for this summer's World Cup and the first since the final 23-man roster was set on Wednesday.


A crowd of just under 68,000 filled Lincoln Financial Field with the raucous intensity the team expects to see in South Africa. Coming into the match the U.S. was 4-1 in their final friendly before a World Cup.

Turkey struck first in the 27th minute as midfielder Arda Turan broke off a mis directed run by American Jonathan Spector a connected on a shot that evaded the charging U.S. goalie Tim Howard.

Despite failing to qualify for this summer's World Cup the Turks did start most of their international squad and pressured the U.S. National Team for most of the first half. Howard faced many rushes and lucked out on a missed shot by Tuncay Sanli just before the 45th minute to keep the lead at one going into half.

After some roster shuffling by U.S. head coach Bob Bradley the team responded. In the 46th minute. Bradley  subbed in Oguchi Onyewu, Steve Cherundolo, José Francisco Torres and Robbie Findley to help the team spread the field.

The move worked as the newly inserted Findley connected with Landon Donovan at around the 15-meter line to set up the first goal. Donovan triggered a strike into Turkeys defense crossing up Turkish goaltender Volkan Demirel and sent a soft pass to U.S's Jozy Altidore for the equalizer.

Both teams pressured and had opportunities but incredible showings by both goaltenders kept the match close. It wasn't until the 75th that the U.S. took the edge as midfielder Clint Dempsey connected on a cross from Donovan to give the team the 2-1 lead.

Donovan was the all-star for the U.S. squad way beyond his two assists. Donovan connected on several set positions and corner kicks that could have seen the back of the net.

The U.S has one more tune-up match before the start of the World Cup on June 11th. They will face Australia on June 5th in Roodepoort, South Africa.

The first official match for the U.S. squad will take place on June 12th as they take on heavily favored England at Royal Bafokeng Stadium. The match can be seen live on ABC at 2:30 ET.
Scoring Totals:

United States:
- Jozy Altidore (59)
- Clint Dempsey (75)
Turkey:
-Arda Turan (27)
Yellow Cards:

United States- Ricardo Clark (41)

Turkey- Mehmet Topal (57), Gokhan Zon (90)

2010 NBA Mock Draft Version 1.0 (3-of-3)

This is part three of my three part NBA Mock Draft. 

(Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3)

First before I begin giving you my first draft of the 2010 NBA Mock Draft season I want to preface this by saying I made the picks I did with the assumption that a few free agents are leaving their respected team and certain I feel are remaining. I think that D-Wade is staying in Miami, LeBron is leaving, Chris Bosh will no longer be a Raptor and Joe Johnson is exiting the way of Mike Woodson. I preface this by saying that if you don't agree I am sorry but I guess we won't know the true validity of the free agent market till July, 9th.

I made my picks based on need, availability and a large amount of common sense. Despite the rumors and theories John Wall is going to be the second pick and if the Sixers don't take Evan Turner with the second pick I might jump off a bridge... That being said I present you part 3-of-3 of the Mock Draft 1.0.

21. Oklahoma City Thunder: Larry Sanders (PF/C) VCU

This kid is the biggest anomaly of the draft. He is so unique because of his skills set he could go anywhere between a top 10 pick to the second round. Truth is he has so much upside but just as much unknown. I think he would be a great fit for the Thunder as it would be a step up to Nenad Kristic at center but also could help them pound with the bigs when Serge Ibaka becomes the full time starter in OKC.

22. Portland Trailblazers: Solomon Alabi (C) Florida St.

I always feel bad for the Blazers. They will always have to deal with the Sam Bowie / MJ comparisons and now as Kevin Durant ascends to the pantheon they will now always be the Greg Oden people. Facts are Oden is one more disappointment from being a complete bust and the only other option this team has was Joel Przybilla and with him entering his 10 season the Blazers need to start thinking about getting someone young.

23. Minnesota Timberwolves: Stanley Robinson (PF) UConn

This is third pick for the T-Wolves and with the first two I gave them SF help so I think that with this draft being so deep as the forward position why not another. Basically if Robinson is here they will take him because I think he is the best talent as trade bait. If hes the pick hell never wear the uniform. This kid was a under shadowed talent at UConn but I commend him for graduating and I think that he will become a useful role player for a team. Think Juwan Howard.

24. Atlanta Hawks: Eric Bledsoe (SG) Kentucky

If Joe Johnson leaves this team will be in desperate need of guard help. Bledsoe was over shadowed by John Wall but I think given the chance he could be a great combo guard, specifically for the Hawks. The Hawks have max money and if they decide the can keep Joe Johnson then Bledsoe could be groomed into the PG of the future for when Mike Bibby retires.

25. Memphis Grizzlies: Elliott Williams (SG) Memphis

I know what your saying, The one thing Memphis has is guards, and you right. Just like with the T-Wolves, I dont expect them to keep all three picks. If this pick is not traded then the player chosen will be. But he was my highest player left on my list and I don't see him fitting with any other team with the last five picks.

                                          26. Oklahoma City Thunder: Willie Warren (PG/SG) Oklahoma

Great in state talent as well as a good kid overall. Who knows how long they will be able to keep Russell Westbrook in town and Warren could learn a lot in this system. We saw how successful James Harden was this year and I think the same thing could happen for Willie. The Thunder are excelling with picking up unknown talents and I think this may be another case.

27. New Jersey Nets: Paul George (SF) Fresno St.

This kid has great range and has been praised as amazing coach-able, which is a huge selling point for the Nets. Hes quick off the dribble and in workouts this week was described as NBA range when it came to his shooting. The Nets will take a big man at the third spot and try to deepen themselves with this pick.

28. Memphis Grizzlie: Dominique Jones (PG) South Florida 

This kid is a great leader and has smart court sense. The Grizzlies are deep at SG but with a young PG and the right coaching it could completely change their offensive strategy (which is deeply needed). He is a bit of a project but has the potential to be a leader.

29. Orlando Magic: Quiny Pondexter (SF) Washington

Not that the Magic need help as the SF position with Pietrus and Barnes Pondexter can also play SG when needed. He is a hard worker and I think Stan would really like this kid. He wont have pressure to start and could learn much from a good group of veterans.

30. Washington Wizards: Kevin Seraphin (C) France

The Wizards need help EVERYWHERE and I think that Seraphin would be a good pick for this team. He is registered as a C but I think that in the pro game he will fit more in with a team as a PF. Either way this kid has size and quickness. I don't know if he will come over right away but with the last pick in the first round its not a huge loss. The Wizards will need a few years to turn it around in the first place.

So there it is ladies and gents... my 2010 NBA Mock Draft. I expect it to go through some changes before the 24th but I think it a solid selection of the talent that's available.

Love it or hate it, I would love to hear your comments.

-b.chan

2010 NBA Mock Draft Version 1.0 (2-of-3)

This is part two of my three part NBA Mock Draft. 

(Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3)

(First before I begin giving you my first draft of the 2010 NBA Mock Draft season I want to preface this by saying I made the picks I did with the assumption that a few free agents are leaving their respected team and certain I feel are remaining. I think that D-Wade is staying in Miami, LeBron is leaving, Chris Bosh will no longer be a Raptor and Joe Johnson is exiting the way of Mike Woodson. I preface this by saying that if you don't agree I am sorry but I guess we won't know the true validity of the free agent market till July, 9th. I made my picks based on need, availability and a large amount of common sense. That being said I present you part 2-of-3 of the Mock Draft 1.0.)

Just as last year was the year of the guard this year is a chance for many clubs to replenish their rosters will high quality SF and PF and a fair mix of hybrid guys that can score as a PF but the size of a center...

11. New Orleans Hornets: Donatas Motiejunas (PF/C) Lithuania
It didn't take long  but with the 11th pick I expect the Hornets to take the best international available in this years draft. He is a Andrea Bargnani type talent but has been criticized as a little un-focused, I notch that up to being the best player in a league and not caring. Either way I think he could immediately help a Hornets teams that is in a bit of disarray.


12. Memphis Grizzlies: Patrick Patterson (PF) Kentucky
 The Grizzlies have three first round picks so if they don't make a move to get higher I think Patterson is a good fit for Memphis. He is one of the more experienced PF in this draft and would fit well in Lionel Hollins system, plus Patterson is versatile enough to fit on the court with either Rudy Gay or Zach Randolph.


13. Toronto Raptors: Daniel Orton (PF/C) Kentucky
Another Wildcat comes off the board with this pick and I think Orton is a security pick for Toronto is Chis Bosh leaves. Hopefully is Bosh decides to exit he will make it better for Toronto in a sign and trade but if he gets out of dodge and leaves the Raptors high and dry Orton might help patch a small part of the wound.


14. Houston Rockets: Hassan Whiteside (PF/C) Marshall
Another security pick here for the Rockets. No one is really sure what Yao Ming will play like when he comes back and with Houston brass assuring fans that Luis Scola will return next year Whiteside would be a smart choice. The Rockets have max money this summer but they only have two names on their radar (Amare or Bosh). Chances are they wont get either so like many teams security in the draft is the most reassuring thing.

15. Milwaukee Bucks: Avery Bradley (SG) Texas
The Bucks got a lot of miles out of John Salmons and benefited from his production as the biggest upstart in the Eastern Conference. With Michael Redd coming off a season of injuries the multi-talented Bradley is a good pick from a team looking to get younger and quicker. A young backcourt of Jennings and Bradley could solidify a team that needs to start looking towards their promising future.


16. Minnesota Timberwolves: Gordon Hayward (SF) Butler
Minnesota has three of the first twenty-three picks in the draft so if anyone is making a move its them. Hayward made a name for himself in Butlers improbable run towards the national title. He averaged 15 points and 8 boards in the tournament and is a solid three point threat. He won't be a starter right away but think of him as a younger Jason Kapono just a little smaller. Definitely a point of improvement for the T-Wolves.

17. Chicago Bulls: Damion James (SF) Texas
I think that James is a smart move here as a security if the LeBron rumors done come true. The team still has faith in Luol Deng but you could see in the playoffs that after a few games of overplaying he became gassed quickly. James can step in and play immediately and will work well with Taj Gibson when he slides to the 2.

(Its sad that its going to take this long for a senior to come off the board but with everyone worried about next years CBA this draft is flooded with underclassmen.)

18. Miami Heat: James Anderson (SG) Oklahoma St.
This was a toughest pick because this was the 4th or 5th place I think Anderson could go. Hes talented (22.3 ppg) and could play SF is needed. He is also the best player as a D-Wade insurance policy (besides Evan Turner). If the rumors are true and Pat Riley is returning to the sidelines then Anderson could be groomed into an elite player and one of this drafts biggest steal. He has the Andre Iguodala potential but with less pressure.

19. Boston Celtics: Xavier Henry (SG) Kansas
With the unknown future of Ray Allen in Boston and the fact that Michael Finley is not a long term solution Henry could be the player with the best chance to success immediately. Last season he hit 41% from beyond the arch and could be a big part of the long term Celtics success. He will have his growing pains because much of his negative attention is about his attitude. The Celtics have had this issue before and look where that got them... Rajon Rondo.

20. San Antonio Spurs: Luke Babbitt (SF) Nevada
Just as they did with George Hill and his growth as the PG of the future and the steal of the draft in DeJuan Blair as the PF of the future, Babbitt could be the SF of the future for the Spurs. Who knows how long Richard Jefferson will stay in town and its a good idea to get a young talent in the mix before Jefferson's skills diminish.

Well that's part two of Mock Draft 1.0... I appreciate the comments so drop me

a line...

-b.chan

2010 NBA Mock Draft Version 1.0 (1-of-3)

This is part one of my three part NBA Mock Draft. 

(Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3)

First before I begin giving you my first draft of the 2010 NBA Mock Draft season I want to preface this by saying I made the picks I did with the assumption that a few free agents are leaving their respected team and certain I feel are remaining. I think that D-Wade is staying in Miami, LeBron is leaving, Chris Bosh will no longer be a Raptor and Joe Johnson is exiting the way of Mike Woodson. I preface this by saying that if you don't agree I am sorry but I guess we won't know the true validity of the free agent market till July, 9th.

I made my picks based on need, availability and a large amount of common sense. Despite the rumors and theories John Wall is going to be the second pick and if the Sixers don't take Evan Turner with the second pick I might jump off a bridge... That being said I present you part 1-of-3 of the Mock Draft 1.0.

1. Washington Wizards: John Wall (PG) Kentucky 

This pick was a no brain-er even before the Wizards won the lottery. Wall has the most hype and potential out of this draft. This is a good fit for the Wizards because it will allow the reinstated Gilbert Arenas to move to the SG position, which is his natural fit. This team has the money to take on a max contract so with Wall and Arenas in the backcourt expect them to make a move after a PF or PF/C combo.

2. Philadelphia 76ers: Evan Turner (SG) Ohio State

This is the smartest pick for the lowly Sixers. The team has no many multiples in the front court and having the chance to take Turner at the second pick is a gift to the Sixers who went a dismal 27-55 last year. Turner is a all around talent, and will make a strong asset to a team that needs a fresh start. The Sixers will get a back court of the future with Turner and last years first round pick Jrue Holiday. 

3. N.J. Nets: Derrick Favors (PF) Georgia Tech

Nets majority Mikhail Prokhorov took over with a grand plan in his first night as Nets gm: Take John Wall with the first pick, steal LeBron James in free agency and instantly turn around the Nets. Problem is in the last five years the worst team in the league has not won the lottery. With all of that in the past I expect the Nets to take the young and talented Favors. It has been made clear that Prokhorov does not plan on keep Yi Jianlian so expect Favors to slide into the starting PF position quickly.

  4. Minnesota Timberwolves: Wesley Johnson (SF) Syracuse. Johnson averaged 16 points a game last season and will fit in nicely with a Timberwolves team that is still rebuilding. Yes I know he is pretty much a Ryan Gomes replica but that will add some stability to a team that is lacking a deep bench. Plus Johnson can slide into the 4 when Kevin Love needs a break. Be advised I would not be surprised if the T-Wolves went with a center in this pick. (DeMarcus Cousins is option 2).

5. Sacramento Kings: DeMarcus Cousins (PF/C) Kentucky

The Kings need help in the low post and Cousins would be a great fit. The Kings would be better then they finished last season is Spencer Hawes wasn't injured. Cousins and his 6'11 frame will add some stability in the low post and allow Carl Landry to move to SF.

6. Golden State Warriors: Al-Farouq Aminu (PF) Wake Forest

At 6'8 with a seven foot wing span Aminu could really help the young fast Warriors. He used to playing in a run and gun offense and could balance well with SF Corey Maggette. The Warriors were a -10 rebounding next season and Aminu can crash the boards. Many have compared him to Josh Smith and I agree. He is a hybrid forward that plays beyond his size.

7. Detroit Pistons: Ekpe Udoh (C) Baylor

Ben Wallace is old and Kwame Brown is garbage so taking a center at the seven slot is the easiest pick since Evan Turner. Udoh will be an immediate starter and will allow Jonas Jerebko to move out of the paint and take more outside shots. This will be an immediate upgrade for Detroit. This is a SG heavy draft so expect that Pistons to take one with their second round pick (26 overall).

8. L.A. Clippers: Cole Aldrich (PF/C) Kansas

Aldrich won't start seeing as the Clippers are expecting a rookie of the year season for Blake Griffin but expect the 6'11 Aldrich so get plenty of time off the bench. The reason I took Aldrich here is because I think he could be a top 5 selection. Don't be shocked if the Clippers take a SG but I think they like the insurance policy Aldrich can give them is Blake Griffin becomes the next Greg Oden.

9.  Utah Jazz: Greg Monroe (PF) Georgetown

This is one of those picks that I mentioned in the preface. Monroe is a project player but may be a safe bet for the Jazz is Carlos Boozer opts out next year. Hes a smaller Lamar Odom type but with the right coaching could become a strong utility starter in the league. John Thompson produces quality Big Men and Monroe may be the next product to take over that crown.

10. Indiana Pacers: Ed Davis (PF) North Carolina

I really felt bad for the Pacers at the draft lottery. Danny Granger looked so stoked to be at the lottery but looked like someone shot his dog when the 10 pick came up. The Pacers have many needs and I don't think Tyler Hansbrough will ever be an NBA talent. In Davis the Pacers will get a true North Carolina PF and someone that will give Troy Murphy a rest when needed. Plus I think I speak for all NBA fans in saying the Pacers need to stop taking white guys, T.J. Ford looks like hes constantly being audited. 

Picks 11-20 to come tomorrow, just a hint: 9-of-10 will be forward hybrids... 

Let the scrutiny begin.

-b.chan