FLASHBACK: A Real Interview with Fake University President ‘Fantasy Shirley’

April 15, 2013 by Leave a Comment

This article originally appeared in the November 2011 issue of MemphiSport.

Last month, MemphiSport sat down with the real University of Memphis Athletic Director R.C. Johnson to discuss the current state of the athletic department and its future. To follow up, we formally requested an interview with University of Memphis president Dr. Shirley Raines. Here was the response from her office:

“President Raines has asked me to let you know that she feels that R.C. covered your athletic questions well. She will keep your request active.”

All of our follow up requests were ignored despite our explanation that the interview would cover a broad range of topics about the university, her career, etc.

So with the real university president out of the picture, we turned to the fake university president on twitter – @fantasyshirley.

Here is our real interview with the fake Dr. Shirley Raines:

 

Do you consider yourself more of a “Dreamer, Thinker or Doer”? 

I consider myself equal parts Thinker, Dreamer and Doer. Basically what you would use if you were making the ideal person to run a fine university. Take those attributes and sprinkle in a keen fashion sense and you get me!

When is it not a great day to be a Tiger?

The day John Calipari left wasn’t a great day. The day Rick Ross couldn’t make it to Memphis Madness wasn’t great either. The Whopper bar at the UC was out of ketchup one day and that wasn’t a banner day for the Tigers.

Everyone knows athletic director R.C. Johnson is a fan of Elvis. Who is your favorite music artist of all time? 

I would say that is a three way tie between Clay Aiken, Barry Manilow and the 2 Live Crew. But recently I have been jamming out on my iPod to Susan Boyle- that girl throws it down.

You have been president at the University of Memphis since 2001. How long do you plan to continue at your position? 

I want to be the Joe Paterno of university presidents.

You recently set a $250 million dollar goal for fundraising – how much will your salary rise if this goal is ever achieved? 

Nominally.

If someone called you tomorrow and offered $100 million for the university, how would you allocate it? 

I’d build an on-campus stadium…psych!

What is biggest reason to avoid building an on-campus stadium? 

I was for it before I was against it. But because the construction would be really noisy and my house is near the proposed site, I had to say no. Would you want to put up with that mess? Also, Geoff Calkins was for it, so I had to be against it.

If Memphis fielded a badminton squad, would they have better facilities than the football team? 

No, we would just let the football players try their hand at being on the badminton team and they could use the same facilities. Got to work smarter, not harder.

On a scale of 1 to 10 – how important is athletics to you? -

π.

What is your favorite sport? 

Is “Wheel of Fortune a Sport”? If so, that is my favorite. I also enjoy gigging frogs and noodling for catfish. I wanted to be a mathlete, but books were more of my thing. I’m a published author you know.

Why is Memphis not already in a BCS conference? 

We aren’t? Why is R.C. always telling me we are? He said it is because of our airport.

What was your last conversation with R.C. Johnson about?

Oh, I told him about the upcoming Kohl’s One Day Sale and how I was going to stock up on some blue blazers. He asked me if it was okay if he had a hammock installed in his office. We made lunch reservations at Houston’s and then we talked about getting LA Tech, Alcorn State, Belmont and UT Martin together in one conference to go after these so called “super conferences”. We would call it the Mega Mighty Super Duper Conference.

Do you ever talk to the students? If so, what do you say? 

Rarely…

What has been your proudest moment as president of the university?

I starred in a series of commercials for the U of M. “Dreamers Thinkers. Doers” was my line.

What has been your biggest regret as president? 

Not having that John Calipari bronze statue made yet.

Is there something you are trying to accomplish before retirement? 

If I said total destruction of the athletic department, would you keep it off the record?

What do you want your legacy to be? 

I’ll leave that to the historians, but frankly, I’m the best thing that ever happened to this institute of higher learning.

Who would you consider the U of M‘s most important alum? 

Jerry “The King” Lawler. At least he represents something I would consider as a real sport. Wink Martindale also.

Would you consider teaming up with R.C. Johnson to wrestle against Geoff Calkins and Jerry Lawler in a wrestling match for charity? 

Heck yes, but only if we can have it at the Mid-South Coliseum, if Bill Dundee is the special referee and if R.C. and I can be managed by Jimmy Hart. And tell Lawler that he might be the King of wrestling but I am the Queen of Memphis…I’ll be throwing the fire.

Which university property is more important- the English department or the Bursars office?

Please, the Bursar’s Office. Do I really need to tell you why?

What is your favorite building on campus? 

The Ned McWherter Library. Especially the 3rd floor. Cleanest bathrooms on campus.

You were recently offered a job at Kentucky? Why didn’t you take it? 

Can you imagine trying to sell a house in this market…Plus I wanted R.C. to replace Mitch Barnhardt so we could have the gang together again, but the UK Board of Regents said no dice. They called R.C. “a liability?”

Did you paint any of the 100 Tigers around campus? 

I couldn’t risk getting paint on my blue blazer, so no. R.C. sure liked being in the room when they were all being spray painted. He said it really helped him make great decisions. Matter of fact, I think he was around all that painting on the day he said we deserve to be in the SEC.

Would the world be a better place if sports didn’t exist? 

Not just the world, the galaxy.

Kevin Cerrito is the managing editor of MemphiSport and host of MemphiSport Live (MSL) every Saturday from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm on Sports 56 WHBQ. MSL was voted 3rd Best Sports Radio Show in the 2010 & 2011 Memphis Flyer Best of Memphis poll.  You can follow him via Twitter @cerrito.

Filed Under: Features, The Big Features Tagged With: , , , ,

NFL Week 4: Pick ‘Em Up, Dump City, and Backfield Battles

September 26, 2012 by Leave a Comment

Once again, it is time for waiver wire pickups and here are some of the guys that need to be picked up.  Also, bye weeks start, so depth is an important issue as well as being aware of which teams are on a bye week this week.  Pittsburgh and Indianapolis do not play this week, so set your lineup accordingly.

Pick ‘Em Up

QBs

1. Jake Locker – Titans
It looks like the Titans are going to have to be a pass heavy offense since they cannot get the ground game going.  It might be the offensive line, but also could be Chris Johnson being a step slower and little  hesitant once he gets the ball.  Nonetheless, Locker looks like he can handle it and has the weapons to succeed in Kenny Britt, Nate Washington, Jared Cook, and rookie Kendall Wright.  Pick him up and play him when the matchup seems

Jake Locker has stepped up for the Titans with their lack of a run game.

right.
2. Ryan Fitzpatrick – Bills
Fitz is a Top-10 QB right now and with the news that CJ Spiller’s injury is not severe expect him to continue to strive.  Spiller provides that safety valve that QBs love to have, he can turn a dump pass into a 75 yard TD and Fitz gets points for that too.  This week Buffalo takes on New England, expect a shootout and a lot of fantasy points in that one.

RBs

1. Tashard Choice – Bills
Two Bills to pick up?  Yes, Choice will be the man getting the carries this week in Buffalo.  This is just a bye week replacement as Spiller will be out this week, Fred Jackson will return, but at what capacity is still unknown.  If you have somebody on your bench worth dropping, it would be advisable.
2. Jacquizz Rodgers – Falcons
This guy was mentioned in last week’s article – Week 3 - in the backfield battles segment.  He keeps getting more and more touches in the high-powered Falcons offense.  He can also catch passes out of the backfield, which makes him more valuable for Atlanta and your fantasy team.  He still may not be the starter in Atlanta right now, but after this week, he might not be available on the waiver wire for you to pick up.

WRs

1. Andrew Hawkins – Bengals
Hawkins has quietly put together a good season so far as the Bengals number two receiver.  His fantasy points have increased each week and even

Andy Dalton has a new number two in Cincinnati.

though he might level off, he will still get between six and eight passes thrown his way a game.  Also, the emergence of AJ Green as a Top 3 receiver in the NFL will allow Hawkins to see single coverage all season.
2. Ramses Barden – Giants
He could be Kevin Ogletree, which really hasn’t done much since his breakout performance opening night.  He also could end up being one of Eli Manning’s favorite targets by the end of the season.  He had nine catches this past week and with Hakeem Nicks injury history he could see the playing field very often this season.  Even if he won’t get the start next week, definitely worth having for when he does get the call.

TEs

1. Heath Miller – Steelers
An oldie, but goodie.  Miller has been in the league for a while and this year looks like a comeback year him.  He has at least one touchdown in each week and seems to be striving as Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown are getting all the defenses’ attention.
2. Dennis Pitta – Ravens
It seems that no matter who the TE is in Baltimore, he will succeed.  Flacco loves to use his tight end and Pitta is his favorite target as he leads the Ravens in receptions.  His success will continue as long as “Joe Cool” is behind center.

DSTs

- Cardinals
It’s surprising how people have not jumped on these guys and picked them up.  Now, it is reasonable to not think the Cardinals as a team are for real, but it is their offense that is keeping them down.  The defense has been remarkable and they also have one of the best return men in the league in Patrick Peterson.  Arizona plays the Dolphins this week, pick them up if they are available.

Dump City

1. Robert Meachem – Chargers
The guy that looked like he could be Philip Rivers’ favorite target coming into the season has been a huge disappointment.  Malcolm Floyd and Antonio Gates are those guys, also Ryan Mathews returned and that’s more bad news for Meachem.
2. Roy Helu – Redskins
He was just placed on IR by the Redskins, so his season is over, but for some reason he is owned in way too many leagues.   Helu owners more than likely took him in hopes that he would succeed in Shanahan’s offense, instead Alfred Morris has been that guy.
3. Shane Vereen – Patriots
When fantasy drafts were first starting it looked as if New England was going to be a time-share backfield between Vereen and Stevan Ridley.  Vereen’s injury problems along with Ridley doing nothing wrong has put Vereen as the backup and therefore brings minimal fantasy value to your squad.
4. Replacement Refs
Too easy.

We can all agree – Dump these guys!

Backfield Battles

1. Washington Redskins
Again, they will be mentioned every week just because of Mike Shanahan and his tendency to switch his running backs whenever he feels like it.  Alfred Morris is still the man to own in the Redskins backfield.  Keep an eye on newly signed Ryan Grant and Evan Royster, but there are plenty of better options out there to get fantasy points than those two.
2. Arizona Cardinals
The door has finally opened for Ryan Williams to take over the reigns of the Cardinals’ backfield.  Beanie Wells was injured in this past Sunday’s game against the Eagles and Williams flourished, picking up 83 yards on only 13 carries.  While he has not found the end zone, expect that to change this week.
3. New York Jets
Last year it looked as if Shonn Greene might have turned the corner and into the running back the Jets thought they were getting when he drafted out of Iowa.  This year, he reverted back to his old form in which the team has him on a short leash.  Bilal Powell has gotten more and more action as the weeks go on.  Expect the Jets to stick with Greene for the time being, but if he continues to struggle look for Powell to pick up the slack.
4. Atlanta Falcons
They make another appearance here as Jacquizz Rodgers looks to be the back of the future.  He is used in the passing game and Michael Turner just has too many miles on his legs to where he won’t be getting the workload that he used to.

Ben Hogan is the producer of MSL and a long-time fantasy sports guru. Follow him @NotTheGolfer for any fantasy or lineup questions throughout the week.

Filed Under: Fantasy Sports, Features, The Big Features, Web Exclusives Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

A League of His Own

April 29, 2012 by 2 Comments

This article originally appeared in the April 2012 issue of MemphiSport.

It’s the ninth inning, the game is winding down. The signal has been given to the University of Memphis bullpen to bring in the closer.

“Bad Company” begins to play on the loud speakers and No. 32 Jonathan Van Eaton, makes his way to the mound with an unmistakable look of intensity and purpose on his face.

A few pitches later the inning comes to a close and Jonathan’s job is done.

Van Eaton, a 20-year-old junior interdisciplinary studies major is a Memphis native. He began his baseball career when he was 5 years old. He discovered his passion for the game two years later while playing wiffle ball with his brother one afternoon. It was at this moment he said he realized he wanted baseball to be more than just a game; he wanted it to be his life.

“I had visions of just bunches of fans surrounding my backyard, it was odd it was very odd … I feel like that is my life calling to be a baseball player,” Van Eaton said.

In his youth, Van Eaton played for The Memphis Travelers baseball team. While in high school he played for APAK travel team in addition to playing for his school team, Arlington High School. He was the starting pitcher for Arlington from the end of his sophomore year through his senior year. Van Eaton is the record holder for wins, innings pitched, and strikeouts at Arlington.

Van Eaton came to the U of M with a singular purpose, to make his childhood dream a reality. He made it clear to his athletic academic advisor that baseball came before everything else. As one baseball coach said according to Van Eaton, the players are majoring in “baseballology.”

“I immediately went to my academic counselor and said look, I don’t want to be here very long,” he said. “Put me in the easiest classes possible. I want to study nothing I want to commit a 100 percent of my time to baseball, that’s what I’m here for. That’s what I want to do, if people want to support me while I do it than more power to them.”

In addition to being the closer for the U of M baseball team Van Eaton is also one of the

co-captains. He was elected by his teammates, which he said demonstrates how his fellow Tigers trust him and recognize his ability to lead.

Leadership is not something he says he learned or tries to do, but rather it is an instinctive part of himself.

“The captains aren’t the ones who put down consequences on others, but we are the ones who prevent them from happening,” Van Eaton said. “It is our job to remind and enforce the way the Memphis baseball program is run.”

Practices, travel, games and school consume the majority of his time; however, when he is not on the field Van Eaton said he is usually spending time with his No.1 fan, his girlfriend Jenny Johnston.

Johnston said she understood from day one the role baseball plays in her boyfriend’s life.

“When I first met him baseball is all he talked about, and I know that playing baseball will make him the happiest person in the world,” Johnston said.

While baseball is a huge time commitment Van Eaton said he is confident the hard work he puts in now will pay off in the future.

“It’s a job that I love and I hope to get paid for it one day and support a family on it,” he said. “If I got the opportunity to play baseball professionally, I would be able to live while I make a living. Some people work so hard to make a living and they never get to live.”

Playing on a Division 1 collegiate team has provided Van Eaton a platform to showcase his talent to prospective scouts, which he hopes will lead to him getting drafted by a major league baseball team before he graduates.

When scouts come to observe the talent of the various U of M players, Van Eaton says he treats those games no differently than any other.

“Pressure only falls on the shoulders of the unprepared,” he said. “It’s kind of like OK, let me do what I have done my whole life and you get to watch me do it. I get to show off and pitch my game and if you like it then you like it.”

In the 2011 season Van Eaton made 11 appearances and finished with a 6.48 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 16.2 innings of pitching. With the 2012 season now underway, Van Eaton leads the team with eight appearances. He has 1 save and is 2-1 with an ERA of 1.64.

While Van Eaton says at the moment he is putting all of his eggs into one basket he does on occasion find himself doing a reality check.

“I don’t like to admit it but sometimes I think about life after baseball, and I don’t know, I don’t know what it would be like,” he said.

Written by Meaghan Nichols, photos courtesy of the University of Memphis
Filed Under: Features, The Big Features Tagged With: , ,

The Memphis Grizzlies’ One-Two Punch

April 25, 2012 by 1 Comment

This article originally appeared in the April 2012 issue of MemphiSport.

Rudy Gay and Zach Randolph have been teammates for the past three-and-half years, long enough to establish a close knit friendship between each another. To their credit, their veteran leadership has complemented their contrasting roles and benefited greatly to the Memphis Grizzlies’ success in recent years.

Generally, their on-the-court success has afforded them to develop a remarkably tight rapport away from basketball, one that ultimately was put to test during the Grizzlies’ memorable playoff run last year.

For instance, although the Grizzlies became the first team in ten years to knock off a No. 8 seed, the excitement surrounding their first playoff series win in franchise history resulted in mixed feelings, or sorts, for Gay, who was sidelined with a season-ending shoulder injury he suffered against Philadelphia days after the All-Star break.

“It was tough,” Gay recalls. “In a way, it was like a dream come true for me. But the only difference is that I wasn’t a part of it. But teammates had a great run.”

Among those who routinely kept Gay in high spirits was Randolph who, despite being the subject of an Indianapolis drug investigation in May 2010, emerged as the catalyst of a Grizzlies team that came within a game of advancing to the Western Conference finals last year.

“I see him as a big brother,” Gay said of Randolph. “Anything I needed, he’d help me and vice versa.

The New Year didn’t start off particularly well for Randolph, a 2010 All-Star who found himself in a similar predicament as the one Gay endured last year. In Memphis’ 40-point loss at Chicago Jan. 1, the 10-year veteran went down in the first quarter with a partially torn medial collateral ligament of his right knee, an injury that Grizzlies coach Lionel Hollins initially sensed would sideline his star power forward for the remainder of the year.

Randolph’s injury, which occurred five games into the season, proved costly for the Grizzlies. Despite reeling off wins against Sacramento and Minnesota, Memphis dropped its next three games. During that stretch, Gay, the team’s leading scorer, averaged just 14 points while connecting on 22-of-53 field goals.

Consequently, Gay’s subpar numbers brought about criticism during the losing streak, in large part because fans, members of the local media, and those affiliated with Grizzlies organization felt that the six-year small forward wasn’t playing up to the five-year, $82 million contract extension he signed in July 2010.

While Gay admittedly didn’t pay much attention to what was being said and written about his play after Randolph went down, he essentially took the criticism in stride.

“Where much is given, much is expected,” said Gay, when asked to assess the early-season criticism. “But I don’t think I was 100 percent ready after I came back (from injury). Mentally, I don’t think I was basketball ready the first of October. Had the season started on time, I know I wouldn’t have been ready.”

Conversely, there were some who felt that Gay being discredited for the team’s early struggles was a premature assessment, considering the Grizzlies were in the early stages of the season following a 149-day lockout that reduced the 82-game campaign by 16 games.

“I think people should raise up off of Rudy,” ESPN play-by-play announcer Mark Jones said in a telephone interview from Miami. “He’s shooting about 45 percent from the field. Plus, I believe Memphis is right on track to make a run in the Western Conference.”

Among the biggest reasons the Grizzlies are, as shooting guard O. J. Mayo affirmed before the season, “ring chasing,” is that they finally have a healthy Gay and Randolph back in the fold during what undoubtedly is a pivotal stretch in the season.

Though Hollins is slowly working Randolph back in a starter’s role by having him come off the bench, the Grizzlies managed just four victories in nine games through the end of March, this after both players returned from injuries March 16 against Toronto. However, Hollins has repeatedly said in recent weeks that Memphis can’t possibly duplicate, let alone eclipse last year’s postseason run with Randolph averaging only 14 points and 26 minutes per game.

As for when Hollins plans to reinsert Randolph back in the starting lineup remains unclear with less than a month left in the regular season. The way Jones sees it, though, even with Randolph, Memphis’ third-leading scorer, assuming a reserve role, the Grizzlies, who currently occupy the sixth spot in the West, have sufficient chemistry and depth to mount a lengthy postseason run.

“I can definitely see them making a deep run,” Jones said. “I think they can win in the postseason. I mean, you’ve got Zach and O. J. Mayo coming off the bench. That, I believe, gives them a tremendous scoring punch. Would it be nice to get home court (in the opening round)? Yes. But they have proven they can do without it.”

If the playoffs started today, the Grizzlies would face the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round and, like last year when they upset then No. 1-seed San Antonio, would play Games 1-2 on the road. Whether Memphis can repeat last year’s opening-round shocker will depend largely on how Gay performs in his first postseason appearance. Once again, the Grizzlies would need a similar effort from Randolph, who exhibited arguably the best postseason display of his career against the Spurs and Oklahoma City.

Randolph started each of Memphis’ 13 playoff outings, averaging team highs in points (22.2), rebounds (10.8), and minutes played (39.6). Gay, on the other hands, appears to have used the early-season criticism as motivation, given he has registered consistent numbers, even after sustaining what team doctors diagnosed as a concussion after a March 12 game at Denver.

Through the end of March, Gay has started 48 of Memphis’ 49 games, leading the team with 18.8 points per contest. Add to that the team’s solid offensive balance, and it’s no wonder many haven’t dismissed the notion that the Grizzlies, who boast six players averaging in double figures, are serious threats to come out of the West.

What’s even scarier, at least for opposing teams, is that the Grizzlies, barring no severe injuries, will have Gay around for the postseason to complement the excitement Randolph and company created throughout the Bluff City last year.

“All good teams are not 1-2-player teams,” Hollins said. “When Rudy went out (last year), guys stepped right in and played even better. It’s just like when Zach went down, we went to a more up tempo style of play. All of these guys are NBA players and realize they have a job to do.”

Only this time, the responsibilities for the Grizzlies likely will appear much easier now that Randolph is steadily working his way back into midseason form and Gay is performing much like the franchise player many anticipated at the beginning of the season.

“He’s a great, great player,” Golden State coach Mark Jackson said of Gay. “He can hurt you in so many ways. He’s made a strong case that he could have been an All-Star player.”

That honor, it turns out, went to Grizzlies center Marc Gasol. Like Gay and Randolph, Gasol, who is second on the team in scoring at 15.5 points per game, has also been hampered by injuries of late. Hollins decided to rest the 7-foot-1 Spaniard for the Grizzlies’ recent home game against Minnesota. Gasol, dressed in street clothes, was seen wearing an ankle boot on the bench, prompting Randolph to joke with reporters in the dressing room after the game.

“It seems a curse has hit this team,” said Randolph, when asked to assess the Grizzlies’ assortment of injuries this year.

Fortunately for the Grizzlies, Gasol’s injury kept him out for only one game as he returned for the next outing at Houston and scored 19 points in a losing effort. Now with everyone back for what appears to be a healthy and hungrier Memphis squad, Gay and Randolph are hopeful that the “curse” remains a nonfactor with playoffs looming.

“The sky’s the limit for us,” Gay said. “Obviously, now that me and Zach are back is an added dimension. But right now, we’re proving we’re a great team.”

A team that, given its formidable chemistry and depth, has emerged as a serious threat to advance past the Western Conference semifinals in the coming weeks, something Randolph believes likely would have happened last year if not for Gay’s injury.

“He definitely was the missing piece,” Randolph said of Gay. “He’s our franchise player. If we had him, we would have won that series (against Oklahoma City).”

Gay appreciates that Randolph looked to him as a leader, particularly during the Grizzlies’ intense playoff series against the Thunder.

“It means a lot for Z-Bo to feel that way about me,” Gay said. “He had a terrific series. Now we’ve got a chance to make some noise.”

Especially now that both players will be around for what the Grizzlies hope will be another dramatic playoff run.

Andre Johnson is a regular contributor for MemphiSport. Follow him on Twitter @AJ_Journalist.

Photos by Joe Murphy (NBAE/Getty Images)

 
Filed Under: Features, The Big Features Tagged With: , , ,

FedExFood

April 3, 2012 by Leave a Comment

This article originally appeared in the March 2012 issue of MemphiSport.

The higher expectations for the Grizzlies and the awful looking Tams jerseys are not the only new things you will find this year at The Grindhouse. Over ten new food options have debuted recently inside FedExForum at the three in-arena restaurants (Opus, Lexus Lounge, and Jack Daniel’s) and many concession stands.

So far fans have been pleasantly surprised by the new additions to the menu. FedExForum’s foodservice provider Levy Restaurants develops most of the ideas for these wonderful culinary creations at their “Innovations Kitchen” in Chicago, Illinois.

MemphiSport recently sat down with FedExForum’s Executive Chef Mark Mabry for a tasting of all the fresh menu items. While each of the dishes are unique in their own way, the one thing they all have in common is that they all should be followed up with FedExForum’s newest dessert option- the Deep-Fried Banana Moon Pie ($3.50 at the State Fair by Section 113).

 

Spinach Artichoke Dip
$8.50 Opus and Lexus 

Start the game off right with this tasty appetizer, which is available at Opus and Lexus.  This fantastic appetizer is served with grilled pita chips on the side and is among the healthier choices that are offered (if you are into that sort of thing).

Tennessee Gumbo
$8.50 Opus, Jack Daniel’s, and Lexus

Another fantastic way to tip off your evening in the Forum is with this delightful dish.  It contains crawfish, smoked sausage, and grilled chicken, or as I like to call it, a whole lot of yummy.  This wonderful creation is available at Opus, Lexus, and Jack Daniel’s.  A delicious piece of cornbread is served with it, so if you plan on ordering this dish you should be prepared for quite possibly the most delicious gumbo you have ever tasted.

Seared Scallop Picata
Opus

Unfortunately this dish comes with good news and bad news.  The good news is this is yet another scrumptious meal available at FedExForum.  These seared scallops are served with roasted vegetable Israeli cous cous, lemon caper sauce and potato gaufrettes.  If your taste buds are anything like ours then you will cherish every bite.  The scallops are not only seared to perfection, they are the biggest scallops I have ever had.  You will be in awe at the way this mouthwatering meal dances across your taste buds.  Now it is time for the bad news.  The seared scallop picata is not a daily menu option.  It is a part of the Opus’ daily fish specials, but if it is on the menu when you go get it and I promise you will not be disappointed.

Loaded Dogs
Staff favorite $6.50 Plaza Level Concessions

These yummy treats pleased me the most.  Let us start this yummy journey off with the Not Yo Dog, a true treat for any nacho lover.  It is covered in nacho cheese, sour cream, and tomatoes.  If you close your eyes and take a bite into this hot dog you will swear you are actually eating nachos.  For those of you who love kraut let me introduce you to the Deli Dog, Justin Ford’s personal favorite.  It is topped with kraut, Thousand Island dressing and Celery Salt and is a splendid treat.  Sink your teeth into this dog and get ready for a splendid taste sure to please the pickiest of eaters.  This next dog’s name says it all. The Heater.  Covered in buffalo wing sauce and topped with blue cheese slaw it is a tasty treat for anybody who needs to spice up their day.  Be sure to have a drink close by because this dog definitely comes with a little kick.  Next up in this fab five of hot dog delight is Kevin Cerrito’s personal favorite of the bunch, the Big Kid Dog.  This particular dog has gooey mac and cheese oozing out of it and is topped with Fritos to give it that much needed crunch.  I know what some of you are thinking “Macaroni and cheese on a hot dog, yuck!”, but this dog is every cheese lover’s dream.  Last, but certainly not least is my personally favorite of the five loaded dogs, the Frito Pie Dog.  Chili, cheese, and Fritos on a hot dog is a wonderful way to enjoy the game.  I need to recommend a napkin for those of you who are bold enough to try this delightful dog.  You can find any of these dogs at your nearest plaza level concession stand.

Double Cut Pork Chop
$28 Opus

This is yet another fantastic dish served at Opus and is stuffed with roasted red peppers, crispy pancetta, and Jack cheese.  The masterminds at Innovation Kitchen could have stopped there, but they did not.  Instead they decided to serve this already delicious pork chop with the best whipped potatoes I have ever tasted and sautéed green beans, topped with Madeira demi glace.  “These ain’t instant,” were the only words Justin could manage to say in between his bites.

Grilled Caprese Flatbread Sandwich
Staff Favorite $11 Opus

This mouthwatering sandwich is the winner for the healthiest dish, and the favorite of two out of three MemphiSport food critics.  It is a sandwich stuffed with buffalo mozzarella, plum tomatoes, fresh basil, kalamata olives and basil aioli on two pieces of grilled flatbread.  Sadly, you can only get this dish at the Opus.

Meatball Mania
Staff Favorite $10 Plaza Level Concessions

You can find this appealing assortment of awesomeness at the plaza level concession stands. Three different meatballs with three different sauces will certainly leave you wanting more.  The Italian meatballs are covered in a rich marinara sauce, and tastes as good as watching a Rudy Gay dunk feels.  If you want a meatball that will spice up your day try the chicken meatball with green Chile Verde, it is the perfect combination of sweet and spicy.  Lastly there is the pork meatball with ginger soy barbecue, a true delight for anybody that loves the taste of deliciousness.

Grilled Chicken Panini
$13 Opus

Yet another Opus exclusive, the grilled chicken Panini consists of grilled chicken, roasted tomatoes, baby spinach, and provolone.  If you want a delicious meal look no further as this slam dunk of a dish.  It has that perfect combination of being healthy while still filling you up.

Fruta Cup
$6 Plaza Level Concessions

I know you what you are thinking.  “What is so special about something as simple as a fruit cup?  You do not have to cook it.”  Honestly there is nothing special about this dish until you put a sprinkle of chili lime salt and a dash of lime juice on it.  You will be taken aback by the way these two ingredients enhance the tastes of all of your favorite pieces of fruit from strawberries to cantaloupe.

Grilled Free-Range Chicken Breast
$23 Opus and Lexus

The grilled free-ranged chicken breast puts other chicken dishes to shame.  You get a chicken breast drizzled with a creole mustard cream, atop dirty rice and served with some of the tastiest seasonal vegetables around.  Both Opus and Lexus carries this delightful treat, so head over there for a meal that is sure to wow your tastebuds.

 

Written by C.J. Hurt, Photos by Justin Ford

Filed Under: Features, The Big Features Tagged With: ,

McTiger

April 2, 2012 by 2 Comments

This article originally appeared in the March 2012 issue of MemphiSport.

A majority of the estimated 3,000 blue-and-gray clad fans had filed into the Elma Roane Fieldhouse for the University of Memphis women’s basketball team’s recent pivotal Conference USA game against Alabama-Birmingham in which the No. 2 seed in the C-USA tournament was at stake.

Music was ringing through the loudspeakers.

Player introductions had been announced.

That meant it was time for the Lady Tiger coach Melissa McFerrin to partake in her customary pregame routine that includes her walking from one end of her team’s bench to the next, high-fiving each player and member of her coaching staff.

After all, if she ever slips up and balks at displaying her usual competitive drive to her players, there’s a good chance she will never hear the end of it.

“I tell them I want to hear from them on the sideline,” said McFerrin who, prior to replacing Blair Savage-Lansden at Memphis, coached four years at American University. “If I don’t do it (high-five her players), they will find me.”

To get a clear understanding of why McFerrin’s players have come to embrace her unparalleled brand of coaching, look no further her efficacious body of work in her brief time in the Bluff City.

In just four seasons, McFerrin, the 2008 Patriot Coach of the Year while at American, has gone to great lengths to bring a sense of relevance back to a Lady Tiger program after years of futility, something that has been virtually nonexistent since former Memphis and current Southern Miss coach Joye Lee-McNelis won nearly 60 percent of her games (a 229-156 mark) in 13 seasons as the Lady Tigers’ coach from 1991-2004. Prior to this season, McFerrin compiled a 53-45 record at Memphis, or a .541 winning percentage.

And, after having produced the most single-season wins (23 victories) this year heading into the C-USA tournament hosted by Memphis, it’s clear that McFerrin has successfully revitalized a program that, in recent years, was a distant memory on Selection Sunday.

The way things have played out this year for McFerrin’s ballclub, the possibility exists that could change when ESPN televises it annual NCAA Women’s Basketball Selection Show March 13. Win the C-USA tournament and it’s on to the Big Dance for the eighth time in school history and for the first time since the Lady Tigers advanced to the second round of the NCAA tournament in 1995.

“That’s been our goal from the beginning,” McFerrin said. “I’ve said this from our very first press conference, that we will be the class of Conference USA. And I think the room (of reporters) went silent. I remember after the press conference, someone said what I said was pretty bold. But that’s the kind of system we want to run. And we want to recruit players with that mantra.”

Among the players who have adjusted comfortably to McFerrin’s nuts-and-bolts style of coaching is Jasmine Lee. Lee, a 6-foot-2 redshirt senior and University of Georgia transfer, was the Lady Tigers’ leading scorer during the regular season with 14.5 points per game. Lee, to her credit, filled in nicely when her roommate and fellow Georgia transfer, Brittany Carter, suffered a stress fracture in her foot near the season’s halfway point.

Take, for instance, the consistent numbers she registered after Carter went down.

Lee was second in the conference in scoring at 15 points per game, as well as in rebounding with 10.6 boards. Additionally, she is the lone C-USA player to record a double-double in conference games with 15.0 points and 10.6 rebounds per outings, all of which ultimately led to her being named C-USA Player of the Week three times this year.

Lee said McFerrin’s guidance, by and large, enabled her to become more efficient offensively and, most importantly, the catalyst of a team that won four consecutive games to end the regular season and seven of their last eight.

“I think coach McFerrin is great when it comes to getting players to adjust to her system,” Lee, who was rated the 78th player in the country by most recruiting analysts coming out of high school, said. “She’s a big influence to me and Brittany Carter personally. After playing at Georgia, I was sold on coming here and starting a tradition in Memphis. It definitely starts with (McFerrin). Over the years, she’s talked about playing with team unity, so it’s definitely starting to show.”

Next year, McFerrin, a former assistant coach for the WNBA’s New York Liberty and Washington Mystics, will have the chance to exhibit her coaching abilities on a larger stage, one that will include several of the most prominent coaches in America. That’s because Memphis has accepted an invitation to join the Big East Conference in all sports, news that prompted the usual-upbeat McFerrin to joke about having received an unexpected job promotion.

“I said, ‘I just got a new job and I didn’t have to sell my house,” McFerrin, also a former Mystics general manager, said, laughing. “It’s exciting. We’ve just signed the one of the top 10 classes in the United States. That class is good enough to play in the Big East. If you look at UConn, Louisville, and Notre Dame, those are high caliber teams. So no doubt, my job just got harder. But I know what that job looks like. And it’s about winning.”

Something about which the Lady Tigers can identify with this year. Win the C-USA tourney, and there’s no doubt that McFerrin’s pregame high-fiving will continue.

Only this time, it will be on a much larger stage.

 

Written by Andre Johnson, photo by Joe Murphy Photography

Filed Under: Features, The Big Features Tagged With: ,

Victory Ranch: Inspiring Children through Christian Values

April 1, 2012 by Leave a Comment

This article originally appeared in the March 2012 issue of MemphiSport

Tucked into a beautiful and secluded area just outside of Bolivar, TN, Victory Ranch is a place that is redefining the typical summer camp experience. Going to camps in the summer is almost a rite of passage for millions of American children each year, but the team of counselors and employees at Victory Ranch offer more than a camp – they offer a place and program that help children grow intellectually, spiritually and physically.

“Our mission is to nurture and challenge the body, mind and spirit to the glory of God,” Victory Ranch owner Dennis Smith said. “Victory Ranch Summer Camp is a place of adventure and thrills, a place for new victories, as well as a place of endless friendships.”

After directing summer and children camps in the Memphis area for a number of years, Victory Ranch owner and founder Dennis Smith began to realize what a great impact an overnight camp could have in the community. From there, he began to lay the groundwork for Victory Ranch, which is entering its ninth year.

“Camps and youth retreats had been influential in my life as a kid,” Smith said. “After years of dreaming and planning, we developed a business plan and started talking to community leaders that could help make it a reality.”

Campers can expect to participate in a variety of activities throughout their time at the Ranch including five main areas of emphasis: outdoor adventure, sports, recreation, water activities (lake and pool), and equestrian.

Summer 2012 Sessions

  • Session 1 (Coed Sk-2nd grade): May 29 – June 2
  • Session 2 (Coed 1st-7th grade): June 3-9
  • Session 3 (Coed 1st-7th grade): June 10-16
  • Session 4 (Boys 1st-7th grade): June 17-23
  • Session 5 (Jr. High Coed 6th-9th grade): June 24-30
  • Session 6 (Girls 1st-7th grade): July 8-14
  • Session 7 (Coed 1st-7th grade): July 15-21
At the end of each day at the camp, all the children, counselors and employees gather for what Smith has termed a “Round-Up.”

“We all gather together to see pictures of the day’s activities,” Smith said. “Then, we sing praise and worship songs in addition to hearing from a speaker about how God has impacted his or her life.”

Smith and his wife, Anne, sing the praises of their staff and credit the counselors and employees with providing a consistently unique and high quality camp experience. Unlike a lot of camps, Victory Ranch has a full-time staff with professionals dedicated solely to improving the Victory Ranch experience.

“We believe the strength of Victory Ranch rests in our staff,” Smith said. “We go to great lengths to hire the best counselors, and our staff and counselors are positive role models chosen for their spiritual and emotional maturity.”

Campers and parents alike have been impressed with Smith, Victory Ranch and the overall experience their children have had.

Victory Ranch has camps for all ages this summer. The cost of the camps is $950 per week. Many campers wish to attend multiple sessions. If your child wishes to do so, each additional session is offered at a discounted rate. For more information, visit victoryranch.org.

 

Written by Preston McClellan, Photos courtesy of Victory Ranch

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The Center of the Court

March 29, 2012 by 1 Comment

This article originally appeared in the March 2012 issue of MemphiSport.

Since being drafted with the 48th overall pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2007 NBA Draft, Marc Gasol has been on ascent to becoming one of the best and well-rounded centers in the league.

When his older brother Pau was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies in 2001, Marc and his family moved to the Memphis suburb of Germantown, Tenn. Marc would play prep basketball at Lausanne Collegiate School, earning Division II “Mr. Basketball” honors after a senior season in which he averaged 26 points, 13 rebounds and six blocks.

After graduating high school, Gasol chose to return to his native Spain, where he spent four seasons with FC Barcelona (2004–2006) and Akasvayu Girona (2006–2008) before being drafted into the NBA.

On February 1, 2008, his draft rights were traded to Memphis by the Lakers as part of a trade package that sent Marc’s older brother Pau to Los Angeles. It was the only deal in the history of the NBA that featured two brothers being dealt by opposing teams.

The deal was widely scrutinized as being a scenario in which Memphis was giving up Pau Gasol, an all-star, for virtually nothing in return. Despite the criticism, Marc would sign a contract with the Grizzlies on June 23, 2008.

The younger Gasol defied critics and produced immediately in the NBA, averaging 11.9 points and 7.4 rebounds per game in his rookie campaign while shooting 53 percent from the floor—a franchise record. He upped his numbers the following season, averaging just under 15 points and 10 rebounds per game.

Since then, he has continued to outgrow Pau’s shadow and forge a unique identity for himself both on and off the court. While Marc very much loves and respects his brother, he’s the first to tell you that their games are not similar and that he doesn’t have much of a desire to play alongside his brother.

Throughout his maturation process and the improvement of his game, Gasol has built a passionate following in Memphis. When his brother was traded away just four years ago, many thought it may the downfall of the Grizzlies. Instead, Memphis has thrived.

In Marc’s first year in Memphis, the Grizzlies turned in a 24-58 record. The next season showed marked improvement with a record of 40-42, but the team still missed the playoffs and the city of Memphis remained largely uninterested and unimpressed.

However, the Grizzlies brought in Zach Randolph from free agency prior to the beginning of the 2010-11 season, and everything changed. After adding Randolph to the mix, Gasol’s number fell slightly during the 2010-11 regular season, but he turned it up to an all-star level in the playoffs. The Spaniard averaged 15 points, 11 rebounds and two blocks in the postseason as the Grizzlies won their first ever playoff series.

Picking up where he left off last year in the playoffs, Gasol has averaged a regular season career-best of 15.4 points and 9.9 rebounds per game so far this season—numbers that earned him an All-Star nod. Through all of it, Marc is emerging as his own unique personality.

MemphiSport How do you expect the return of Zach Randolph to impact your game?

GASOL He’s going to help us. We’re going to have to be a little patient. Like I said before, it’s going to be an adjustment for everyone—for him and for the team. We’re going to try to get him acclimated and try to do it as smoothly as possible.

MemphiSport What are you trying to work to improve for the rest of the season?

GASOL We just have to be better. We can be better at a lot of things. We just have to improve. We are okay now, but I still think we have a lot of room to improve. So, it’s going to take a little time and a lot of work, but I think we can make it.

MemphiSport Do you feel as though you get more respect now that you are an All-Star?

GASOL I don’t look at it that way. The only respect I care about is the respect of my teammates and coaching staff. And then respect from the city. But, that’s the only thing I really care about.

MemphiSport Since you have deep Memphis roots, do you see yourself as a tour guide of sorts for the team?

GASOL Oh yea. We were talking about that earlier actually because we are going to practice at Rhodes College and the guys were asking me where that is and everything. It’s unique and nice to be from here and to have grown up here. It’s very nice actually.

MemphiSport Do your parents still live in Memphis?

GASOL No, they actually just moved back (to Spain). But, they were here for 10-and-a-half years.

MemphiSport Is Memphis home to you or is Spain still where you say you’re from?

GASOL It’s just different places, you know what I mean? I’ve been (in Memphis) now for six years of my life. I’ve been in Spain for the rest—for 21 years. But, I consider Memphis one of my homes for sure. I grew up here and spent a lot of time in this town. I became who I am here, too.

MemphiSport What’s different now that you’re back in Memphis compared to during high school?

GASOL Well, it’s a big difference. When I came for the first time, I barely spoke English. I didn’t know anything. I was a young kid. I didn’t have any plans or know what I was going to be in life. I was just a young kid doing young kid kinds of things.

MemphiSport When did you first realize you might have a chance to be in the NBA?

GASOL  It was probably in my last season in Spain before I came over (to the United States). My team was going bankrupt, so I was actually going to have to go to another team. And, then the Grizzlies got my rights in the trade with the Lakers for Pau (Gasol). So, it was a good opportunity to go back to a place that I was really familiar with and a franchise that my family was attached to. It was a good chance for me to start a career in the NBA.

MemphiSport Was it an odd family dynamic knowing you were, in a sense, replacing your brother in Memphis?

GASOL Definitely not. I always said that I would love to play for Memphis if Pau wasn’t here. So, that was kind of a neat thing to happen. I was happy.

MemphiSport What’s your favorite thing about Memphis?

GASOL The small stuff. There are places here downtown that I love. There is so much soul here—so much history. You may overlook things sometimes because you don’t even know. But, once you sit down with people and Memphians and you listen to stories about who has been there, you have a respect for it. Just that and the history and music—I just love it.

MemphiSport Would you say the Grizzlies team work ethic is an embodiment of the city’s spirit?

GASOL Yeah. A blue collar city and a blue collar team. We believe that. You know, especially with the times we are going through right now. Last season, it was a unique moment for us to peak at that time in the playoffs at the same time as there was so much trouble in the city. It was neat. It’s not just that, though. You look at stuff like St. Jude—there are so many things that happen here in Memphis that people don’t realize you can be a part of.

MemphiSport How often do you still talk to your brother?

GASOL Pretty often. Not every day but pretty often.

MemphiSport Do you talk about basketball with Pau?

GASOL Not at all. The closest thing to basketball that we talk about is just asking ‘How is your body’ and that type of thing.

MemphiSport What’s been your favorite memory so far in the NBA?

GASOL Last year in the playoffs for sure. It was special.

MemphiSport What was your favorite thing during the All-Star weekend?

GASOL I couldn’t pick one. So many things went on that I couldn’t really pick one.

 

Preston McClellan covers the Grizzlies for MemphiSport.  Follow him on Twitter @p_mcclellan.

-Photos by Justin Ford

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The Many Faces of Wesley Witherspoon

February 28, 2012 by 2 Comments

This article originally appeared in the February 2012 issue of MemphiSport. 

Perhaps no player in the recent history of University of Memphis basketball has been more enigmatic than Wesley Arington Witherspoon. Coming out of high school, the 6’9” Georgia phenom was rated by Rivals.com as the number 34 overall player in the nation as well as the number 5 small forward. His freshman year saw him show flashes of brilliance and versatility, as John Calipari even installed him as the team’s point guard during one stretch of the season. And the reason Cal asked Witherspoon to be his floor general? Because at the time he thought ‘Spoon was a better option than future NBA rookie of the year Tyreke Evans. The ability to play so many positions had Tiger fans excited and created tremendous expectations. A guard with a power forward’s height, surely this kid was destined for greatness. But the road ahead would be a bumpy one for the Atlanta native, to put it mildly.

John Calipari left after Wesley’s first year, taking the number one recruiting class in the country with him, and many assumed that Witherspoon would follow. But then came an interesting scene. Soon after Josh Pastner was selected to be the new head man at Memphis, the young coach found himself in a room surrounded by a few media members and a handful of players he would have to re-recruit to keep them on his team. The mood was solemn indeed; there was a stillness to the air that hadn’t been present in a long time where Tiger basketball had been concerned. He would have to start over from scratch; Memphis was bereft of talent and Cal had left him very little time to garner new recruits.

But a magical moment then ensued. As Pastner was talking about trying to keep at least some players around, there was Witherspoon, yelling from the back, “We ain’t going nowhere, coach!”  The somber atmosphere suddenly seemed to take a turn. There was ubiquitous chatter among the media, and it seemed that things might not be as bad as they seemed.

His follow-up season didn’t quite get off to the start many expected, however, as the sophomore made only one start early on. And his 10.3 points per game average was not what fans had expected. The team was struggling, and they had been counting on Witherspoon to be a star. Instead it was transfer Elliott Williams, a Memphis native, who became the team’s best player. Witherspoon seemed to lack the desire and intensity many thought he needed to bring, and the expectations began to lessen as he took a back seat to Williams. Many Tiger supporters then found it easier to simply forget about the player they had been so high on just a few months before.

The season might have not have begun the way Witherspoon wanted, the end was a lot better. His form improved, and he wound up starting 19 out of the last 20 games while increasing his scoring average to 12.5 points per game, including four 20-point performances. Though the team just missed out on the NCAA tournament, Witherspoon got to play in all three NIT games, where he averaged 13 points and 5 rebounds, shooting over 52 percent from the field. His game winning basket at the buzzer highlighted a 73-71 Tiger victory over St. John’s in the second round.

At that point, things seemed to be looking up again for the Atlanta prodigy, but if his sophomore year was a bit disappointing, his junior year was laden with turmoil. Witherspoon missed 12 games in total due to a knee injury, although after having surgery to repair a tear in his Meniscus, he returned after only a 2 game absence. The bigger issue, though, was the 2 game suspension he received for disciplinary reasons, where it was rumored that he had been making fun of an assistant coach. Once again however, Witherspoon managed to come back in a big way, playing 28 minutes (the most of any Tiger) in an NCAA tournament game against Arizona. Though the U of M ultimately lost the game, he was a key reason the Tigers almost pulled off the upset.

The anticipation of Witherspoon’s senior season once again effected glorious expectations, upon both he and his team. Memphis began the season ranked in almost everyone’s top 15 and were ranked in the top ten in several publications. ‘Spoon started out the season with a bang, going 8 of 8 from the field in the opener against Belmont, including a perfect 3 of 3 from 3-point range, but since then he has tended to once again be up and down for the most part. His 3.5 points per game average to this point is the lowest of his career. After missing time again due to injury, he has often disappeared on occasion, though at of the time of this article, he is once again on the upswing after having had brilliant games against SMU and Rice, snagging big rebounds, getting key steals, hustling and making free throws. Which Witherspoon Memphis gets during the latter part of his final year here may well determine how the Tigers season winds up.

So who is Wesley Witherspoon? The player who so highly rated out of high school, or the one who fans are constantly riding because of their view that he is an underachiever? Is he the player who stuck around to help out his coach when everyone else was leaving or the kid who complains toward that same coach when he is taking too long in postgame interviews?

Everyone has their own opinion on just who Witherspoon is, but MemphiSport got a chance to speak with the man himself and get his take on things.

 

MEMPHISPORT: What do you think is a common misconception people have about you?

WITHERSPOON: I really don’t listen to what people say about me. I really couldn’t tell you what people say about me.

MEMPHISPORT: What would you want people to know about you that they don’t know?

WITHERSPOON: People that wanna know me know everything about me. I’m just a down to earth outgoing guy, don’t like to be sad, don’t like to frown. That’s just who I am and everybody knows that.

MEMPHISPORT: So you like to keep things positive…

WITHERSPOON: Yeah, no question.

MEMPHISPORT: You are the only guy now who’s been here and had the opportunity to play under two different coaches, Cal and Josh. Obviously they are two different guys…

WITHERSPOON: And my roommate…Preston

MEMHISPORT: Preston, I didn’t realize that.

WITHERSPOON: Yeah, he came in with me.

MEMPHISPORT: So what are some of the differences of playing under them? Though I know you only had one year with Cal.

WITHERSPOON: They got two different approaches to the game. Pastner is a whole lot more laid back. Everybody knows he doesn’t curse, that’s a big difference.

MEMPHISPORT: There are critics out there. And you say you don’t listen to them, but you have to hear something. It’s unavoidable sometimes. What would you say to those guys? The ones who say, “Wes doesn’t do this…Wes should be doing that.”

WITHERSPOON: Just keep on doin’ what you’re doin’. That’s what the critics are there for. Critics are there to critique and that’s what they’re gonna do. You just gotta take it for what’s it worth and keep moving.

MEMPHISPORT: This is your fourth year now, and you’ve been through a lot of ups and downs. You’ve had good moments, great moments even, and bad moments too. You’ve also had some injuries. So at this point, are you satisfied with the way your career has gone?

WITHERSPOON: Not even close but there’s nothing I can do about it.

MEMPHISPORT: What would you change if you could? Or what kind of things would you like to have happened differently?

WITHERSPOON: The things I would have wanted to happen differently? It was just in God’s will for things to go the way they went. Of course I wouldn’t want to get hurt, any of the three times I was hurt here…that’s just about it.

MEMPHISPORT: No one likes to make excuses, but do you feel like these things have really held you back from what you can do?

WITHERSPOON: I mean… to a certain extent, but its basketball… you get over it.

MEMPHISPORT: Who would you say you are closest to on the team?

WITHERSPOON: DJ.

MEMPHISPORT: What kind of relationship does you and DJ Stephens have? Do you guys hang out?

WITHERSPOON: He’s like my little brother. Like a little brother I never had. Eight times out of ten when you see him you will see me, and vice versa.

MEMPHISPORT: Do you try to have him look up to you or is that something that’s unfair to have put on you?

WITHERSPOON: We have a relationship that’s just like we are brothers. We pretty much like all the same things, similar interests when it comes to music, you know… foods. Or it’s just easy to relate to him.

MEMPHISPORT: So let’s think back a couple of years ago. When Calipari left, pretty much all the recruits left and there were a whole lot of things going on. I personally remember seeing on TV you saying “I ain’t goin’ nowhere, coach!” Do you remember that?

WITHERSPOON: Uh huh.

MEMPHISPORT: Talk a little bit about that – what was going through your head and how you felt – about why you said that.

WITHERSPOON: When I signed my name I said I was here to play for the University of Memphis and that’s what I intended on doing.

MEMPHISPORT: Do you think that the people backed out of their commitments did the wrong thing? I mean everybody’s different but you know what you would have done, right?

WITHERSPOON: Different strokes for different folks. Other people had other things in mind and they approached the situation a whole lot different.

MEMPHISPORT: Last year there were some things that were pretty difficult to deal with. You got the suspension, for instance. Was that something that affected you and changed the way you do things? That’s always something that has to affect someone to a certain extent.

WITHERSPOON: It didn’t look good. I mean, there ain’t nothing I could do about it. I can’t change the past; I can just look forward and move on.

MEMPHISPORT: Is that something you learned from? Going through something like that?

WITHERSPOON: No question. You gotta learn. Trials and tribulations.

MEMPHISPORT: What did you learn?

WITHERSPOON: Every setback is a set up for a comeback. So, it hindered me for a little while and it was a blessing in disguise. My mother always tells me everything always happens for a reason.

MEMPHISPORT: Do you feel like you grew from something like that?

WITHERSPOON: No question…no question.

MEMPHSPORT: I’ve seen you do this thing a couple of times where after you make a three and blow a kiss to the crowd. Is that something that gets you going?

WITHERSPOON: It’s not to the crowd, it’s to my mother. Her and my father have been there since day one through everything I’ve been through and they have stuck right by my side and I can’t ask for a better support system. My mother is the definition of perseverance and strength and you know my father is the same way. And just to have those two at every home game lets me know that I’ll be alright. As long as they’ll be there with me I’ll be alright.

MEMPHISPORT: You are a senior and we have a couple months of basketball left. Who knows what can happen if you end up pretty successful at the end. But have you started thinking about what happens in your life after this year? Basketball you only have only so much control over. I assume at some point you want to try to further your career however that winds up. Are you making plans for things like that now?

WITHERSPOON: I don’t know the future and neither does anybody else so I look forward to tomorrow. And if I make it to tomorrow, it’s a blessing in itself.

MEMPHISPORT: This is your moment. Is there anything you want to talk about? Here is your opportunity.

WITHERSPOON: Like I said before, everybody who wants to know me knows me. People on the outside looking in will think what they wanna think and that’s perfectly fine with me

Michael Jones is the Tiger basketball beat writer for MemphiSport. You can follow him via Twitter @MemphisMichaelJ.

-Photos by Justin Ford

 

Filed Under: Features, The Big Features Tagged With: , ,

Makin’ Moves: Grizzlies Adjust

February 15, 2012 by Leave a Comment

This article originally appeared in the February 2012 issue of MemphiSport. 

In early December, I wrote an article entitled A Breakdown of the Grizzlies 2011-12 Roster. Don’t read it.

The Grizzlies have made two trades, signed three free agents, and waived three players since Dec. 24, moving four players out of Memphis and bringing five in—not counting losing Zach Randolph and Darrell Arthur due to injuries. Anything written about the Grizzlies’ roster before the season has been rendered useless due to the plethora of personnel moves made by the team.

Greivis Vasquez was the backup point guard. Mikki Moore, Ish Smith and Brian Skinner were still on the team. Dante Cunningham was a restricted free agent without an offer sheet. Hamed Haddadi was still stuck in Iran. Quincy Pondexter was playing for New Orleans and lighting the Grizzlies up in two preseason games. Marreese Speights was sitting on the bench in Philadelphia. Jeremy Pargo was planning on playing in Israel again, and Xavier Henry was…well he wasn’t doing much anyway.

Needless to say, the Memphis roster has been in a state of constant flux since the middle of December. All the while, the Grizzlies just kept grinding and have remained in playoff contention with more than a third of the 2011-12 season under their belt.

Meet the newly minted Grizzlies, all of whom have played a major role so far this season…

 

Dante Cunningham

When the Grizzlies found out on Dec. 18 that backup power forward Darrell Arthur was going to miss the entire season due to a torn Achilles tendon, Cunningham’s name immediately surfaced as a potential replacement. A restricted free agent of the Charlotte Bobcats at the time, Cunningham would soon be on his way to the Bluff City. The deal became official on Dec. 20 when Charlotte declined to match the Grizzlies’ offer sheet.

Since moving to Memphis, he has averaged 17.5 minutes per game and made the most out of them by putting up 4.8 points and 3.8 rebounds each outing. At 6-foot-8 and 230 pounds, Cunningham is a long and lanky presence that can operate on the perimeter and underneath the basket. He has emerged as a solid presence to spell Marreese Speights and Marc Gasol at times in the Grizzlies’ frontcourt. Still, Cunningham would do himself well by bulking up and establishing a more physical post presence, as bigger guys often push him around.

Cunningham averaged 9.0 points and 4.0 rebounds on .508 shooting in 24.0 minutes in 22 games for the Bobcats last season after a midseason trade from the Portland Trail Blazers in February.  He turned in 12.6 points and 5.8 rebounds on .482 shooting in 31.7 minutes in nine starts with Charlotte, recording a career-high 21 points on April 1 at Orlando and April 11 at New Jersey.

Overall, the Villanova product averaged 6.2 points and 3.6 rebounds on .462 shooting in 78 appearances (18 starts) last season.

On getting to Memphis less than two days before the season began…“Everyday is getting better and better,” Cunningham said. “When you throw someone in just two days we start the games, it’s definitely going to be tough. I’ve had to learn a whole new offense, a whole new defense and gel a lot quicker with 14 or 15 other guys. Everyday has just been a lot easier and a lot better.”

On figuring out his role on the team…“Whenever coach puts me in, I just want to bring energy, defense, hustle and all the grit and the grind.”

On the attitude of winning in the Grizzlies’ locker room…“Winning is contagious. It’s just that feeling and that atmosphere. Once it gets into you, everyone wants a part of it.”

On continuing to win and improve for the rest of the season…“We have to continue to get better and evolve as the season goes on. It’s a long season, but the games are rapid. So, we have to continue to stay healthy and get better.”

 

Marreese Speights

Speights has seen the most minutes out of any of the Memphis newcomers, averaging 20.8 per game during the month of January. Standing at 6-foot-10 and 250 pounds, Speights’ overpowering stature is what first drew the attention of the Grizzlies’ front office. It’s hard to replace a player like Zach Randolph – who prides himself as a bruiser down low – but Speights has seemingly taken to that role. Since joining the Grizzlies on Jan. 4, he has averaged 7.8 points per game to along with 6.1 rebounds while making 11 starts.

It would have been hard to envision that type of instant production given Speights’ reputation around the league as being lazy and “defensively challenged.” The guy couldn’t even get off the bench in the 76ers’ first four games, and rumors swirled about possible tension between Speights and Doug Collins, Philadelphia’s head coach. Prior to this season, Speights had seen his minutes and production decline in each of his three seasons in the league. In his best season—his second year—he put up an average of just over eight points and four rebounds per outing. Those numbers are comparable to what he’s done so far in Memphis.

Speights was a member of the 2006-07 Florida squad that won a second-consecutive NCAA title for the Gators, so being in a winning environment is not a new experience for the 24-year-old. For Speights, it seems that motivation has to come from the people around him, and that’s just what he’s found with the Grizzlies. In less than a year, Randolph, Marc Gasol, Tony Allen and others have completely changed the culture of the locker room at FedExForum. Now, players are expected to win when they get to Memphis. And, for now, that’s just what Speights is doing.

On fitting in to the Grizzlies’ scheme…“I just come here and play hard every night. I have good teammates around me who welcome me anytime. There are great players on the court to play with and that kind of stuff. It’s been really good since I’ve been here.”

On the culture of winning in the Grizzlies’ locker room; “Definitely. Anywhere you win, a culture of winning exists. But, this team has an edge to it, and I like it.”

Do you see Memphis as a fresh start? “Yeah, it’s a fresh start to come to a new city and team and arena. I’ve had a chance to play, and that’s always good.”

 

Quincy Pondexter

On Dec. 24, Memphis made its first trade of the season by shipping Greivis Vasquez to the New Orleans Hornets in exchange for Quincy Pondexter, affectionately known as Q-Pon to many Memphians. With Jeremy Pargo and Josh Selby both expected to see time backing up Mike Conley, Vasquez was the odd man out. In addition, acquiring Pondexter gave Memphis a versatile 6-foot-6 swingman that can play multiple positions and contribute in different ways—the type of player that head coach Lionel Hollins loves.

Since arriving in the Bluff City, Pondexter has filled multiple roles for the Grizzlies. He has averaged 15.1 minutes per contest while putting up 4.5 points and 2.3 rebounds each night. Pondexter’s value won’t be seen in the stat sheet, however. He sees himself as more of a glue guy—almost like a bigger version of Tony Allen.

The 23-year-old recorded 2.8 points and 1.3 rebounds on .406 shooting in 11.1 minutes in 66 games (six starts) as a rookie with the Hornets last season. He was originally taken by the Oklahoma City Thunder with the 26th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, but a draft-night deal sent Pondexter’s rights to New Orleans.

On adjust to Memphis and fitting in with the team… “I feel like I’m fitting in pretty well,” Pondexter said. “This team has a real goal of winning, so being a part of that has been amazing and a dream come true. I’m happy to be in this situation.”

Would you say there is a culture of winning in the locker room? “There is definitely a culture of winning in this locker room. It starts with players that have been there before. Last year left a taste in their mouth, and they want to get back to the playoffs. I was in the playoffs last year with New Orleans, and I know how that felt.”

 

Josh Selby

(UPDATE: On February 13, Selby was sent down to play for the Reno Bighorns in the NBA Development League.)

A former McDonald’s All-American and highly-touted recruit out of high school, Selby has dealt with so many off the court issues in the past two years it’s easy to forget how much talent he has. Memphis selected Selby with the 49th overall pick in last year’s NBA Draft and subsequently signed him to a multi-year contract prior to the beginning of the season.

Selby is still finding his role on the team and has recently replaced Jeremy Pargo as the first backup to starting point guard Mike Conley. Flashes of Selby’s immense talent are frequently on display, but so too are glaring examples of his youth. Still, he has a positive assist-turnover ratio (2 assists per 1.7 turnovers), and that’s a good sign for a rookie. He’s currently averaging just under 12 minutes and four points per game, but it’s likely those numbers will go up if he continues to be the first option after Mike Conley.

On adjusting to the NBA… “I’m getting used to the point guard position and just learning the plays,” Selby explained. “I’m learning who I need to get the ball to, time management and all those things.”

On the culture of winning in the Grizzlies’ locker room… “Last year, (the Grizzlies) had a great year, so we are trying to do even better this year. That winning and attitude of competitiveness is in this locker room. When we are in here, everyone is just talking about and focusing on winning.”

On whom he looks to as a mentor or role model…“I look to everyone,” Selby said. “From Pargo to Speights to Z-Bo to Marc, Rudy, Sam, Tony—just everyone. I look to all of them because they’ve been here before, and I know I can learn different things from all those guys.”

On his flashy yellow shoes…“Everybody likes the color, so I just wear them for everyone that hits me up on Twitter. People say they like them.”

Preston McClellan covers the Grizzlies for MemphiSport. Follow him on Twitter @p_mcclellan.

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