And They're Off....Remembering California Chrome, The NFL Draft, and a Splendid Senior Day in Bako!

May 1, 2026

                                                                          Looking Back...

                                                    Senior Day at Cal State Bakersfield (4/26)

Bako

A Tip of the Cap to the Cal State Bakersfield Softball Coaches (Alyssa Graham & Gaby Brixey) for coordinating a delightful Senior Day on Sunday, April 26...The Seniors were able to "have a catch" with their Dad's, along with having their numbers painted behind home plate...additionally in an uber classy and thoughtful move, the Roadrunners acknowledged the UC Riverside Seniors as well...as a former coach who has been through a few Senior and Sophomore Nights, including the opposing team brilliant...the Runners would take 2 of 3 from the Highlanders over the weekend...Bakersfield currently is tied for 7th in the Big West with CSUN, while the top 6 teams qualify for the conference tournament...the Roadrunners visit 6th place UC San Diego this weekend...

                  The Roadrunners Sharing Senior Day with the Riverside Seniors--I dig this gesture!!!

Speaking of the Roadrunners, one of the Soccer plays I happen to be on the call for...is up for the Roadrunners Play of the Year! My Big-Game-Dramatic-Calls are a work in progress...however this wonderful goal was a beauty!!! I have truly had a blast covering Roadrunner Athletics--this strike, was a delight to witness and be a part of!

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1288424983503230

NFL Draft (& A's Note)

From my view in the cheap seats...hard to beat the Raiders and Cardinals draft...the Raiders land QB Fernando Mendoza (and hope), while the Cardinals acquire a big dose of "Love" in Notre Dame running back Jerimayah Love--whom the Cardinals selected with the 3rd pick...might these two teams square off in a Super Bowl in the not-too-distant future!?! The Super Bowl will be in LV in 2029--just saying...my draft winner the New York Football Giants-linebacker Arvell Reese "fell" to the NYG at #5; then they swooped in and selected a tackle named Franics-Francis Mauigoa, with the 10th selection...in the 3rd round, the Giants nabbed another Golden Domer, in wide receiver Malachi Fields...Fields played on a team with the finest running back in the land (Love) and a freshman quarterback (C. J. Carr), otherwise he may have received the ball more frequently in South Bend...the Irish also possessed another running back selected in the first round, Seattle's Jadarian Rice...Fields will be a main target for NY's QB Jaxon Dart, and a star in the Big Apple--perhaps a Raiders v Giants Super Bowl in the years to come!?! The Raiders also signed the "The Toyko Toe", former U of Hawaii self-taught kicker Kansei Matsukawa...a plethora of personalities gathering in Vegas...the draft remains my wife's favorite Days of the Year! (This might just be her favorite picture too!?!)...that baseball team headed to Vegas, found themselves in first place in the AL West on May 1...not sure how many people called that one!?!  The A's top draft prospect, Leo DeVries has been spotted playing 3rd base, which simply indicates this future star, and the @Prospects1500 (Leo & The River City) #3 ranked prospect...will be in Sacramento soon!!!

                                                 It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year...

Looking Forward...

Derby Day!  

The 152nd edition of the Kentucky Derby takes place Saturday, May 2 from Churchill Downs in Lexinton...this year the "first weekend in May" kind of/sort of snuck up on me. Need a name or two, well, my horse of choice, "Right to Party" looks a scratch here on Friday, (naturally!?!)...why not "So Happy"?!?Will Happy hold of the likes of Renegade, Commandment, Chief Wallabee and The Puma? Time will tell...California Chrome wherever you are, Cheers Golden Boy! My favorite race...Mine That Bird's first-to-last ride with Calvin Borel on the saddle in 2009. Enjoy the Ride...#LuvyaChrome...I am going with The Puma, and Incredibolt as a long shot...

Chrome and I 

So Happy

Mine That Bird's Improbable Derby Run!

                                Enjoy Derby Day and Your Weekend...Good Sport Everybody!!!

Our baby, Noah (The Big Bear) announcing to the world he is Fresno State Bound! https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?tab=rm&ogbl#inbox?projector=1 (Check Out Reedley College on Facebook. Noah is the Dude with the glasses and the beard!!!)

(Day 1 NFL Draft Update) Fullerton Bashing & Love is in the Air...My Wife's Favorite Day--Check That, Favorite 3 Days!!! Fernando, Fernando...

 Bonus Coverage: Day 1 NFL Draft Delicacies

Tip of the Cap: To the Raiders & Cardinals for delivering Fernando & Love!!! Perhaps the gridiron worm is churning in the Southwestern part of the country!?! 

Winners:          1. J-e-t-s, Jets, Jets, Jets. Pass rusher, uber-talented TE, and one of the Fernando's money targets from IU Omar Cooper...the Jets soared in Round 1.

                       2. Browns. Correct the Browns. They were able to trade down and grab a premiere tackle (Utah's Spence Fano), then nabbed WR KC Concepion

I know...the Raiders, Cardinals, Jets, Browns all making their fanbases happy momentarily!!!

Head Scratcher:  The Rams. Not sure GM and Coach McVay are on the same page regarding the selection of Alabama QB Ty Simpson!?! Simpson to LA

Names to keep an eye on early in Round 2:

*Washington WR Denzell Boston; will the Bills nab another weapon for Josh Allen? If not, I don't think Boston slides past the New York Football Giants at #37!?!

*TE Eli Stowers, apparently the Dude apparently doesn't set the world on fire as a blocker...but this former QB has magnetic hands! Might the 49ers nab him!?! Stowers rocked the combine! 49ers traded back and currently own the first pick of the 2nd round (#33), as well as pick #58, and could use a future replacement for George Kittle.

*Defensive Linemen Kayden McDonald (Ohio State) & Christian Miller (Georgia)...if McDonald is on the board at #36--he is joining Fernando in Las Vegas!

*There are a ton of defensive backs and safeties on the board: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Tennessee's CB Colton Hood should go early!

Enjoy the draft, enjoy your weekend--see you in the stands or on your set! BF

April 23, 2026

Tip of the Cap:  This one goes to my son Noah, who blasted a career high 94 (out of 100) while trapshooting a couple of weekends ago...our youngest kiddo, will be a Fresno State Bulldog next fall.          Well Done Kiddo!!!

Broadcasting Schedule, Roadrunner & Big West Softball Notes:

This weekend I will be in Bakersfield for softball as CSU Bakersfield hosts UC Riverside for a 3-game series...on Saturday April 25, the first game of the doubleheader at starts at noon (PST) with the 2nd game scheduled for approximately 2:30 p.m...then on Sunday the two teams return for a single contest beginning at 11 a.m....all 3 games, aired on ESPN Plus...currently the Roadrunners (6-15 conference record) are in 8th place, a game behind both CSUN (Northridge) and UC San Diego who both own a 7-14 record...the top 6 teams qualify for the Big West Conference Tournament to be played in Fullerton May 6-9...CSUN host UCSD this weekend, then next weekend UCSD travels to Bako, while CSUN heads to the "Beach" to take on Long Beach! The race for the #6 is on...currently Fullerton holds the top spot (19-2) followed by UC Santa Barbara, The Beach, Hawaii, and UC Davis...keep on eye on Fullerton, as they can really knock the ball around the yard--junior Titan Sarah Perez leads the BW with a .435 average...Fullerton has walloped 42 home runs, while simultaneously leading the league in fielding an ERA...they are a fun-loving, swaggy group, who just might make a little noise in the NCAA tournament! First they will have to win the conference tournament, which was won by the Gauchos a year ago...similar to the way Cal Poly SLO made it to the Sweet 16 in Women's Volleyball, I can envision Fullerton making a tournament run...the Titans captured the D-1 crown in 1986, under legendary coach Judi Garman...one of the Fullerton's top arm-Trisha McClesky--is a CenCal native, from Merced (Merced High). McClesky leads the BW in wins (14) and innings pitched (145).

Luv and Love for the NFL Draft!

The draft is almost here! It sure sounds like there can be a lot of zaniness tonight when names are read in Pittsburgh...about the only consensus is that Indiana's Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza will be heading to Las Vegas...THE HOPE IS REAL in Raiderland! For those of you who haven't read up on the draft like my sporty spouse, here are a couple of first round themes to keep an eye on:

*Where is the Love?!? Most pundits have Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love as the first running back coming off of the board...but when and where will he land? Keep an eye on the New York teams, who both could use a "splash", and I would think the Irish's Subway Alumni would luvvvvvvv to see their guy end up calling MetLife Stadium Home!?!

*New York, New York...as I write this, the Jets and Giants each own two picks in the top 16...will Love be in the air for the Big Apple? Will the Jets stay at #2...or might they trade down? Might the Giants with the #5 and #10 do likewise? Might the Giants trade up--and snag a load of Love!?! Fun times for the fans that follow the Big Apple's teams. (The Chiefs own a pair of picks as well in the first round--but as they are over exposed and they even had a Hallmark Movie based on their fandom, we won't mention them...I am a fan of T-Swift by the way, just saying!)

*Not to be outdone, the Cowboys pick at #'s 12 and 20...might they be feeling the pangings of Love? Could the 'Boys looks to grab a share of tonight's limelight by making a Draft-Day-Deadline-Deal!?! 

*Who will be the first defensive player selected? Will it be one of the two Ohio State Buckeye's projected to be selected very early-Arvel Reese and Caleb Downs? Which Edge Rusher (Defensive End) and tackle hears their name first this evening? Need a little more drama...which Wide Receiver (dare I say Deva?) is the first to come off the board? Another Buckeye, Carnell Tate's is frequently mentioned as the guy QB Rooms would welcome with open arms...when will Bama QB Ty Simpson come off the board?!? First round? Second Round (Friday). Will he be the 2nd QB selected or will their be a surprise? The knock on Simpson, he doesn't have a ton of starts under his belt...keep an eye on the Cardinals, Jets, and Steelers who could all use a signal caller! Will LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier be the "Riser" of the draft!?!

*How about the defending Super Bowl Champion Seahawks? Seattle only owns four draft selections...might Seattle, and the Raiderzzzz make a deal?!? The Silver and Black own 10 picks, including 3 in the 4th round...new LV Head Coach was the offensive coordinator for the champs a year ago...wonder if they might strike a deal? Could the Raiders and 49ers swing a deal? Santa Clara of San Francisco selects is slotted at #23--a prime locale to trade down with a team who wants to come back up into the first round! Whoa Nelly. 

*Could a San Diego State Aztec (Yeah I am a bit of a Homer!?!) hear his name in on Thursday? Corner back Chris Johnson appears destined for a late Round 1, early Round 2 selection!?! How about a couple of Dudes from U!?! The Canes were a play or 2 from capturing the Natty...I would expect to see a little Green and Orange on the screen tonight!

                  Enjoy! Remember to Say Hello When our Path's Cross. Fernando, Fernando...

Fun-loving Fullerton!!!

                                              My Favorite Spouse Reading Up on Fernando!

                                                                  Good Sport Everyone!!!

Tax Day/Jackie Robinson Day Column, BAKO Notes, Grizzlies Growling, & SacTown Darlings!!!

April 15, 2026

Broadcasting Schedule

*Saturday April 18, Cal State Fullerton, DOUBLEHEADER; Noon, 2:30 p.m., ESPN +

**Sunday April 19, Cal State Fullerton, at CSUB, 11 a.m., ESPN + (this game was originally scheduled for Friday, April 17)

Cal State Fullerton sits atop the Big West Standings owning a 16-2 conference record, 28-12 overall...the Titans, lead the conference in just about every hitting category sporting league leading .348 batting average, a .498 slugging percentage ("which represents the number of bases a batter records per bat", per MLB.com Slugging Percentage Defined), and a .401 on base percentage; from the mound they currently maintain a league-best 3.19 ERA, and in the field, well they can catch it too as they are #1 in fielding in the Big West with a fielding percentage...CSUB currently sits in the 8th spot, with a 6-12 conference record 8-33 overall...The top 6 teams qualify for the conference tournament May 6-9th, hosted by Fullerton. The baseball team will head to Hawaii for a 3 game series beginning Friday (4/17)...baseball also sits in the 8th place in the Big West, courtesy of a 6-9 conference mark, 15-22 overall...Ray Alvarado was recently named Interim Head Women's Basketball Coach at CSUB...Coach Ray served as an assistant on the Roadrunners staff in 2025-26...Coach Alvarado owns a plethora of coaching experience, serving as head coach at both COS and Fresno City College, along with Bullard and Sanger High Schools...for two seasons, the Fresno State graduate was at the helm of Division 2 Hawaii Pacific.

Tip of the Cap & Minor League Notes:

*Fresno Grizzlies and Colorado Rockies prospect Tanner Thach with a whale of a game on Tuesday, April 14. The left-handed hitting first basemen drilled a pair of homers including a Grand Salami...(Thach's Big Night in Ontario on X, and game story 4/14 Grizzlies Game Story)...The Ontario Tower Buzzers, are the Dodgers affiliate, and it appears the ball is flying out of the yard in Ontario, waka waka...the Grizzlies possess quite a line up with prospects Ethan Holliday (#1), Roldy Brito (#9), Kelvin Hildago (#21) and Wilder Dalis (#25) to name a few...these Young Dudes all seem to have an air of positive vibes around them...on Friday, April 10 vs Stockton, I was able to view #13, right-hand pitcher JB Middleton...the former 2nd round selection out of Southern Mississippi simply looks and acts like a pro...composed, good command, solid velo...on this night, JB tossed 5 innings, striking out 4, allowing one earned run and walking a batter...I look forward to tracking his progress. This game had a couple of cool twists--in the bottom of the first, Holliday banged his first professional Home Run! Every time I see the Ethan, I just marvel at how BIG he is!!! I can envision him sliding over to 3rd base eventually...EH is oozing with confidence, likability and talent...on this night, Thach's college buddy, Stockton Ports catcher Bryan Arendt was also in the lineup...and that one earned run surrendered by Middleton--well, that was courtesy of a Arendt blast over the left field wall...Arendt owns a cannon of an arm! BA actually made 6 appearances a year ago on the hill for his (and Thach's) Seahawks of UNC Wilmington! While the Grizzlies are in SoCal the Visalia Rawhide are home for the rest of the week, as they host Inland Empire (Mariners)...for the week of April 21-27, the Grizzlies return home to battle Rancho Cucamonga (Angels), while the Rawhide will be on the road at Lake Elsinore (Padres)...as of 4/16 the Grizzles own a  7-4 record, the Rawhide sit at 3-8.

Prospects1500: Rockies Top 50 Prospects

Prospects1500: Athletics Top 50 Prospects

Prospects1500: Diamondbacks Top 50 Prospects

                                           The former UNC Wilmington mates: Thatch & Arendt

                                         

                                 Ethan Holliday--moments before his first professional Home Run!

                                      

                                                   The sights of Minor League Ball in Fresno!

SacTown Darlings...

Don't look now...the Athletics are in first place in the AL West with a record of 10-8...for all of the mess that surrounds the A's and their move to Las Vegas, the reality is: this team is pretty good, and they are pretty darn likable!?! There is a chance, a legitimate chance, there could be a playoff team playing in Sacramento the next two summers...thus, Sacramentans and A's fans, the time really is now--grab your gold Sacramento Jerseys! By the way, the vibe at Sutter Health Field has changed dramatically...much more A's fans at the park, more green and gold...much less overt cynicism and cantankerism from the patrons. I was fortunate to be in the yard Tuesday (4/14), and the evening was delightful...last season, watching an A's game in West Sac felt like being at a Spring Training game played on a Neutral Site! This year...it still feels a tad like a game in the desert, however the crowd and vibe are significantly more Green and Goldish. With all do respect to the pain the "Last Dive Bar" faithful (and my spouse) are feeling...the team is rejuvenated. The group is winning, and the Big Amish--Nick Hurtz Kurtz (think a cross between Babe Ruth, Reggie Jackson, and your favorite schoolmate!) hasn't started mashing yet...they also have 3 talented Dudes in the minors working on their crafts (top MLB prospect switch-hitting short stop Leo DeVries, along with southpaw hurlers Gage Jump & Jamie Arnold)...my gosh the worm has definitely churned and turned...with the Sacramento Kings in a dumpster fire, and the old frenemies SF Giants scuffling (6-12)...the bells of the ball in the River City, might just be those silly, wacky, somewhat dysfunctional and cute Athletics!?!

(...and with the NFL Draft a week away (April 23)...Las Vegas is about to land Fernando Mendoza for their football team...LV will be like Oakland in the early 70's--fantastic athletes with charismatic and flamboyant personalities! The Strip will soon be rocking and rolling with Green, Gold, Silver & Black!!!)

Remember to say hello when our paths cross on the streets or in the stands! Good Day & Sport Everyone!                                                    

                                               Clowing Around with Stomper in SacTown!

                                                                     (My Next Costume!)

                       

                                                                   Thanks Jackie!!!

                      *A Reminder to check out Prospects1500.com for all the skinny on MLB Prospects!  

              ***Least I forget, A Tip of the Cap to Michigan and UCLA hoops...Denver Hockey Too!!!

Notes from Bako, A Bulldog Debut, Tark & Tubbs, and Fresno's Grizzlies are Ready to Roar!

 March 31/April 1, 2006

April Broadcasting Schedule: CSU Bakersfield Softball 

*Tuesday April 7, Utah Tech at CSUB, DOUBLEHEADER; 11 a.m.; 1:30 p.m., ESPN +

*Friday April 17, Fullerton State at CSUB, 2:30 p.m., ESPN + (moved to Sunday, April 19th!)

*Saturday April 18, Fullerton State, DOUBLEHEADER; Noon, 2:30 p.m., ESPN +

*Saturday April 25, UC Riverside, DOUBLEHEADER, Noon, 2:30 ESPN +

*Sunday, April 26, UC Riverside, 11 a.m., ESPN +

Tip of the Cap(s) To:

*Bakersfield Jockey Club (BJC Facebook Link); this group honors student-athletes in the Bakersfield area. A wonderful organization. I attended their Breakfast Awards Ceremony on March 24 and came away refreshingly impressed. CSU Bakersfield Baseball Coach Jordan Banfield was the Guest Presenter. Roadrunner slugger Evan Cloyd was an award recipient. 

*CSU Bakersfield Administration for hiring Todd Lee as their Head Men's Basketball Coach. The addition of Coach Lee a slam dunk! Coach Lee comes from USC, however he was also an assistant for the 'Runners back in the late 1990s (1994-1997). I worked at a basketball camp under T-Lee back in the day, and suffice to say I am a fan. Coach Lee served as an assistant under legendary Bakersfield Coach Pat Douglass.

*Dan Martin Stadium Baseball Stadium on the campus of Fresno Pacific University is an absolute gem! The Sunbirds included plenty of shade...which makes for a fantastic baseball experience. I was there to watch the Hawaii-Hilo Vulcans and family friend Dom Agrella (the right-handed masher from Sacramento/Elk Grove currently owns a stellar .442 on base percentage). 

*Fresno Grizzlies Media. The Grizzlies Media Day (3/31) provided local media with the opportunity to meet and interview team members. I was able to speak with manager Cesar Galvez, and a sample of their star-filled infield: Wilder Dalis, Ethan Holiday, Roldy Brito, Tanner Thach and Ethan Holiday. The latter is our Prospects1500 #1 ranked Colorado Rockies Prospect; Brito #9, Dolis #25, and as a sophomore, Thach belted 27 home runs for the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Brito in particular flashed an entertaining personality. Coach Galvez and his young Dudes were all a joy to speak with. The 1st-round selection Holliday appears pleasant, poised, and possesses a mighty frame. This talented core opens the season on Friday 4/3, when they travel to Visalia (Diamondbacks) to take on the Rawhide in a 3-game series...by the way if you are a baseball fan, and have not attended Valley Strong Ballpark in Visalia, just do it--you can thank me later! Thank you to the Grizzlies--in particular Tim Slack and Jack Van Valkenburg...while mingling, I struck up a conversation with Fox 26 Sports Director Ralph Wood...I was simply captivated by Ralph as he graciously shared some of his broadcasting ventures (which included tales of Tark, Billy Tubbs and Tulsa!)...and I was wholeheartedly digging it! I look forward to our next chat Ralph! 

                                            

    (Left to Right: Thatch, Dolis, Brito and the Skipper Galvez)

*Let me close the shout-outs with debut news...after attending the Grizzlies event, I then proceeded over the Fresno State to enjoy the Bulldogs hosting Cal Poly SLO (The Mustangs prevailed 10-4, Cal Poly improved to 17-10 overall)...making his first career start for the Bulldogs was Eric Rico-Eric's grandfather was a dear friend of my dad...and what a treat it was to watch Eric firing away! Eric's older brother Joey is a two-way player for Westmont (Santa Barbara)...both prepped at Redwood in Visalia. A big thank you to their mom Rhonda for keeping me in the loop. I look forward to watching Joey in the near future...Westmont is currently 2nd in the PacWest, while Fresno Pacific holds the 3rd spot.

3 Dot-Style Around The Horn:

On Monday, the Roadrunners Baseball team earned a wild 17-14 win in Las Vegas or UNLV...Bako has been victorious in 5 of their 7 games, and currently is tied for 6th in the Big West...the top 6 teams qualify for the conference tournament...on the softball side, Bakersfield currently sits in 7th with a 4-8 conference mark--perhaps I can serve as a good luck charm on the broadcasts/livesteams as I will see the group frequently down the stretch in April...and also coming down the pike in April--the NFL Draft...MendozaMania is building...and the draft is always a kick to follow...while conversing with Jeremy Mahy (@JMayFam31) during our taping of a podcast for @Prospects1500, it donned on me, Las Vegas might be collecting an eclectic group of sports figures: Fernando Mendoza, Max Crosby, Nick Kurtz, Leo DeVries, and the youthful looking Jacob Wilson...Vegas might resemble Oakland of the 1970's...Kurtz is off to a bit of a slow start-similar to last year-which makes me wonder if that is simply his way (Eric Chavez comes to mind as an Athletic who consistently struggled to hit early in the year)...speaking of hitting, Shea Langeliers banged out his 5th HR in 5 games-the Bashing Backstop!...Milwaukee and Miami are off to 5-1 starts, and Anaheim has even had a pitching sighting, thus, perhaps, anything can happen...replay has sure brought a cup of spice to MLB programming!...nothing however matches the UConn Men's improbable come-from-behind conquest over Duke on Sunday 73-72 (3/29)...as I always like to say, one of the hardest things in sports is to a close out a mighty competitor...credit to UConn for the grit, and Braylon Mullins for making the steal, and then dropping the long-distance Duke Dagger. The Thrill of Victory...

                                                              Happy Easter! 

Remember to say hello when you see me on the courts, at the yard, or at a theater/restaurant near you!

                              Thanks for perusing-ideally, my ramblings made you smile!

See you down the road! Chukchansi Park in Downtown Fresno is ready to go! The Grizzlies home         opener: Tuesday, April 7th vs. the Stockton Ports (A's). 

(The Young Dude creating a buzz in Colorado: Ethan Holliday)

!

3/15: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, California Champions, Roadrunner Baseball, NFL/MLB Chatter...and the Undefeated East Bay Pioneers!

 Broadcasting Schedule for the Week of March 16-22:

*CSU Bakersfield Baseball on ESPN +; Friday, March 20 vs. Long Beach State, 6:30 p.m.

 The "Dirtbags" visit Bakersfield for a 3-game series Friday-Sunday, March 20-22. The Roadrunners can knock the ball around the yard, and have a knack getting plunked (hit-by-pitch.) by opposing pitchers...Bako leads the Big West in batters HBP, and in steals. The 'Runners are tied for first in runs scored, while they are second in on-base-percentage and hits. Leading the way is senior first baseman Evan Cloyd...Cloyd is carrying a .411 average, to go along with a lofty .547 on base percentage. The Senior who attended high school at Bakersfield Christian has also clobbered 4 home runs, and driven in 23 rbi's, while being drilled 12 times (ouch)...Junior catcher Konoa Morisaki has been stellar at the plate--the switch-hitter is third in the Big West in both batting .380 and reaching base .523...Morisaki has blasted 4 home runs to go along with rbi's...Bakersfield dropped 3 thought games to Cal Poly SLO over the weekend to fall to 1-5 in the BW, 7-13 overall...they will travel to USC Tuesday to battle the red-hot 19-1 Trojans...The "Beach" rolls into town after taking 2 of 3 from Hawaii...Long Beach sports a 6-13 record, 2-4 in the BW...Dylan Lina smacked his 5 HR of the season, while Freshman Pitcher tossed a 4-hit complete game in the Beach's 2-1 win over the Rainbows on Sunday...Speaking of talented freshman pitchers, the Roadrunner feature former Buchanan (Clovis) State, Ethan Myers. Meyers owns a 3-1 record, striking out 11 in 17 innings pitched. I will be filling in on the broadcast for Bakersfield legend Vance Palm...my next outing will be a softball doubleheader on April 7, when Bakersfield will host the Trailblazers from Utah Teach (formerly Dixie college, located in St. George Utah). The softball team appears to be hitting their stride, as they took 2 of 3 this weekend at home from Cal State Northridge (CSUN.). 

Cloyd HR vs. Fullerton

*San Joaquin Delta & Fullerton Capture Community College Basketball Crowns

Delta College (Stockton) captured the Women's Title, while Fullerton edged out last year's champion San Francisco City College on the Men's side...The COS Women made quite a run-winning 9 of their last 10-before falling on the road at Delta in the Regional Finals 67-61...Fresno City knocked on the title door, falling in the semi-finals to Mira Costa (Oceanside). Alex Fletcher's Rams finished the season 24-8...I would expect the Rams AND Giants to be in title contention next season! On the Men's side, the COS Men were upended by Yuba in the Regional Semi-Final...Dallas Jensen's squad finished 23-7, even though nagging injuries plagued the Giants throughout the season...Columbia College also made a deep run, before facing San Francisco City in the Regional Final...it's only a matter of time before Claim Jumper's Head Coach Rob Hoyt makes the Elite 8. I am looking forward to season #3 of calling COS Men's and Women's Hoops next fall. It doesn't get much better from my perch in the Porter Field House...COS will once again be the host for the State Finals in 2027. 

https://3c2asports.org/sports/mbkb/2025-26/releases/20260315w4az7j

https://3c2asports.org/sports/wbkb/2025-26/releases/20260315d1czh4

** A Tip of the Cap To:   Cal State East Bay Men's Basketball

 The Pioneers improved to 32-0 with a 76-67 with a come-from-behind win on Saturday Night (March 14). East Bay will host Pt. Loma (San Diego) tonight (Monday, March 16) with a trip to the Division 2 Elite Eight in Indianapolis on the line...Head Coach Bryan Rooney (@CoachBRooney on X) is no longer the Bay's Best Kept Secret! For the Old-Skoolers in the house, CSU East Bay was once called Hayward State. Here is winning it all East Bay-and finishing the year 36-0...Also a shout-out to Garret Brown (@coachgbrown33) Boy's Coach at Bakersfield, and Cooper Steele (@CoachSteeleCHS) Girl's Coach at Clovis High. Both of these Dudes are two of CenCal's finest on the hoop sidelines!

***Update 3/16 9:50 p.m., PST: CSU East Bay improves to 33-0 with a 73-58 win over Pt. Loma. The Pioneers remain unbeaten, improve to 33-0! Senior Tyree Campbell scores a game-high 20 points, grabs 6 rebounds, and for good measure adds 3 steals and 2 assists! East Bay is now on the way to Indianapolis for the Division 2 Elite 8!

*Mendoza Mania

Cue Fernando by Abba (Fernando)7--the hope and hype is real in Raiders land! After years of meandering off course it looks like maybeeee, just mayyyyybe, the Silver and Black is back on track! The signing (some might contend overpaying!?!) of former Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum can only help!...the dance with Crosby and draft picks and the Ravens...well, for Mad Maxx, all I can say, is sometimes the thought of leaving is actually better than leaving it itself!?! A super motivated Crosby, well that can't hurt either...and doesn't it appear the title in the NFL is up for grabs? While the championship belt most likely goes through the NFC West-Seattle, Rams, 49ers, however it looks like the race to the top is wide open...#MendozaManiaFirst2Worst for the Raiders...I mean, why not!?! The draft should be a hoot once again this year, and it is always my wife's favorite TV event, just ask me!

*Around the Horn...

Opening Day for the MLB is coming down Broadway fast...the World Baseball Classic seems to have grabbed the attention of baseball players near and far--from my shoes, it feels like the WBC has fed of the momentum of the Olympics, and in particular the epic hockey tilt between Canada and the USA...why not just leave as is, and "pair" the WBC with the Olympics every 4 years? If it ain't broke...speaking of broke, the A's in Sacramento is an absolute mess, however, the young Dudes sporting the Green and Gold could be pretty good. If Nick Kurtz (KurtsHurts) continues to mash like he did a year ago, the luvable big fella may just carry his mates to the postseason...playoff MLB baseball in Sacramento-who had that spot on their Bingo Card!?!

It's the Most Wonderful Time...

Green is my favorite color, thus I absolutely luv, luv, luv St. Patrick's Day, and the NCAA March Madness. You still have a couple of days to work on your brackets...here again, I feel this is the year where anyone can hoist the cup...thus on the Men's side, perhaps this is the year the Zags reach the mountain top?!? On the Women's side, how about UCLA--what can I say, West Coast Bias!!! Enjoy the madness.

                                                                 

From Viejas Arena in San Diego, 2022, NCAA 1st/2nd Rd,-Notre Dame knocked off Alabama on this day. 

3/1: March Madness Time! COS & Central Valley Conference Updates, Roadrunners, Gaels & Bulldogs on the Diamond, Along With A Rockie Prospect with NorCal Roots

 March Madness is upon us!

It has been a busy stretch the last 14 days, I have served as play-by-play announcer for CSU Bakersfield (including a 12-inning affair with Utah Tech!); a healthy dose of COS hoops, and...I snuck in 4 Sac-Joaquin Section Soccer Championships on the NFHS/ABC Jam Co. Production Company on 2/21 in Sacramento! Here are a few notes, and my upcoming schedule...

COS & CVC Hoops:

The #8 seeded COS Women knocked off Sierra (Rocklin, just outside of Sacramento) to advance to the California Community College (32CA) Regional Final...Freshman Demi Boykin filled up the stat box. The freshman from Marysville High scored 18 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, dished out 5 assists, and collected 4 steals...that my friends is balling! Sierra's Brooklyn Nordquist (Pondersosa H.S. Placerville) led all scorers with 21...COS is heating up at the ideal time--the ladies have now won 9 in a row! The Giants will travel to Stockton, to face the #1 seed, San Joaquin Delta. The Mustangs are led by long-time and highly successful Coach Gina Johnson..the tip off is scheduled for 7 p.m. Check out the 32CA website for all of the details (3c2asports.org). #4 Seed Fresno City upended Taft, and will host #5 Santa Rosa for a spot in the State Championships.. Here is clip featuring Boykin of our broadcast on the Sequoias Sports Network

 Boykin Nails The Trifecta!

The COS Men saw their season come to an end, falling to #6 seed Yuba, 68-63. The #11 seeded Giants knocked off Delta on Wednesday, Feb. 28 to advance to the Regional Semi-Finals...the Giants finished the season at 23-7, co-champions of the CVC with Columbia...Head Coach Dallas Jensen was named Co-Coach of the Year, along with Columbia College's Rob Hoyt...in 7 seasons at COS, Coach Dallas has captured seven consecutive titles!...And speaking of "Rob the Rocket" Hoyt, his Claim Jumpers knocked off Cosumnes River (Sacramento) on Saturday, and will travel to the Bay, to take on #1 ranked, and defending state champion, San Francisco City College...

The California State Community College Championships coincidentally, will be held at COS on          March 13-15.

*On Tuesday, March 3, I will have the play-by-play as Fresno State visits CSU Bakersfield. This will be my first softball game on the network!

**On Saturday, March 7, I will be back in the booth as Fullerton State rolls into Bakersfield...this will be Game 2 of a 3-game set, that also kicks off Big West Conference Play. Back on February 24, I was thrilled to be on the broadcast as the 'Runners lost to St. Mary's in 12 innings! Holy Toledo!!! The Gaels feature one of the country's leading home run hitters in Jacob Johnson...the Redshirt Sophomore walloped a ball, that still might be in orbit! Bakersfield features a Dude of their own, Senior Evan Cloyd. Cloyd has blasted 3 home runs, and has driven in 16 RBI's. Currently the first basemen possesses a stellar slash line:                     .378 BA (Batting Average)/.509 OBP (On Base Percentage)/and a .622 Slugging Percentage (a measure of a batter's power), good for a 1.131 OPS (On Base plus Slugging). Cloyd led the currently in 2025, as he was hit by a pitch 33 times during the regular season--yikes! Every time Cloyd steps up to the plate, there is a chance the ball will be launched a longgggg way! On a CenCal note, it will be fun to watch the progress of Freshman Fireballer Ethan Meyers. The right-handed pitcher, prepped at Buchanan High School in Clovis...Meyers was regarded as one of the top players in the Fresno area a year ago...

More on Mendoza Mania and the Raiders as the draft roll nears in April...Spring Training is rolling along for those who like to take in a little of America's Pastime...I have kept on eye on Colorado Rockies Prospects over the year...one player to keep an eye on with Northern California Ties, pitcher Fidel Ulloa...Fidel grew up in Lodi, and attended Delta College before becoming a LSU Tiger...the right-hander will most likely start in High-A Spokane, or possibly AA Hartford...his ERA a year ago, a stingy 1.46. 

Tip (s) of the Cap:

This one hits close to home--your son Noah, was accepted into Fresno State. We are all proud and happy for our Big Bear...his GPA while attending Reedley College has landed him on the Dean's List. Oh My! Also a shout out to all of the Section Champions near and far...and since we have talked several times about Stockton--I will give a shout to Coach Alle Moreno and her St. Mary's Rams...the Rams captured a San-Joaquin Section title...Alle's parents are from Rio Vista, and back in the day my parents watched her play a time or two. Well Done Alle, Very Well Done! Alle by the way, was a baller for St. Mary H.S, and Sac State! While we are on it...Kudos to CSU Bakersfield for announcing $1.1 Million Dollars of worth of renovations to their current baseball home, Hardt Field...and to Sac State for joining the MAC in football. The Hornets are taking a mighty swing, and quite simply, why not!?!

For now...on to March Madness! See you on the courts and diamonds, and remember, please say hello!

                                                              Good Sport Everyone!

                                                       

                                                    My view from the booth in Bako: Play Ball!

COS & CVC Hoop Notes, Digging the Beanpot, Reminiscing, & Those Rational, Christian Raiders...

 February 14, 2026 (Happy Valentine's Day)!

COS Men's & CVC Hoop Notes.  

The visiting Giants rallied on Wednesday Feb. 11 to hold off Fresno City 62-56.  Cameron Kelly continued his stellar Sophomore Season with 24 points and 6 rebounds...Fellow sophomore Mason Dorsey chipped in with his typical impressive line-10 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists...Sophomores Kareem Barnett (8 points, 6 assists), Zaquien Whitehead (8 points, 9 rebounds) continue to thrive in their exemplary, complementary roles...the Giants improved to 19-6, 10-1 in the Central Valley Conference. COS travels to 3rd place Merced (8-3, 11-14)  on Valentine's Day, while league-leading Columbia (21-4, 11-0), journeys to the 'Ville (Porterville). Circle Friday, February 20th on your calendar, that is the night when Columbia makes the trek to Porter Field House in Visalia!

COS Women's & CVC Notes.

Despite jumping out to an early 9-2 lead, COS trailed CVC-leading Fresno City 30-23. The second half however, would be all Giants! COS outscored the Rams 34-18, in route to the impressive, hard-fought 57-48 victory...COS improves to 8-2 in conference (15-11 overall), while FCC (18-7, 8-1) suffers its first conference loss of the season...Clovis High alum Alyssa Kern paced the Rams with 14, while Bakersfield Christian's Sara Shein added 13. The key stat on this night-the Rams scuffled from behind the arc, connecting on just 1-18 three-point attempts...both of these teams are postseason bound, and will be worth keeping an eye on. The Rams  play an important game in Lemoore tonight, as the Golden Eagles lurk with a 7-2 mark (18-7 overall)...

Personal Note-Let's Play 2!.

I will be on the call for CSU Bakersfield Baseball Sunday, February 15, as the Roadrunner host Southern Indiana in a doubleheader...due to rain headed our way, the game originally scheduled for Monday, was moved up a day-thus, I will be in the booth for two games! You can follow the action on ESPN Plus...the first game is scheduled for 1 p.m., with the second to follow 30 minutes after the conclusion of Game 1...the Roadrunners held on for a 8-7 win Friday Night-the Screaming Eagles plated 4 runs in the 9th to turn Opening Night into a nailbiter...the tying run, was out at home on a veryyyy close play! 

Tip of the Cap #1:

Baylor's Tyce Armstrong with the Night of Nights! This Bear blasted not one, not two, but 3 Grand Slams on Friday Night! Here is a clip,via X: Tyce's Trifecta! 

Tip of the Cap #2, Silver and Black Style:

Well...have the Raiders figured a couple of things out? The hiring of Seattle's Klint Kubiak appears to be a prudent move...while Kubiak himself appears to be calm and calculated. I  appreciated that the Raiders and Kubiak have interviewed several coaches from the Seattle, New England, Denver and L.A. Rams staffs-even a 49er assistant or two...nothing like nabbing from the best, and at minimum, gleaning intel from the league's best! Kubiak, also appears to be a devout Christian...adding quite a unique and welcome mix to the Raiders building--not to be the cart in from of the Raider...add Fernando Mendoza to the mix in April, and it would appear the Raiders are trending in multiple right directions!?!

Tip of the Cap #3, Boston's Beantpot:

On Monday February 9, I was fortunate to take in the finals of the Beanpot Classic, a 4-team Hockey Classic featuring Boston University, Boston College, Northeastern and Harvard...BC prevailed over BU 6-2, in simply a splendid sports evening! For Sports Enthusiasts, this might be an event to put your list!?! For those keeping score, the last time I attended a BC sporting event, the 1984 Cotton Bowl! On that day, Doug Flutie and Co., took on the Houston Cougars...I fondly recall my short trip to Wylie Texas, eating okra and riding a horse...thank you to the Fonsecas and Apples (and Peterson's I believe), for making a Texas Sized trip! Ironically, on that day the wind chill hit 0 degrees-the coldest I had ever been until chilling in Boston last week with temperatures hovering around-you guessed it 0 degrees!

Have a great week everyone, remember, when you see me on the court or ball fields, please say hello. March Madness is looming....

                                                Enjoying the Beanpot, with my fav Bostonian!

                                                 Watching Hockey down low is an absolute treat!

                                                  Until the next time Boston (TD) Garden!

                                                              Good Sport Everyone!

Super Edition with a Splash of Champaign: Crunch Time in the CVC, Diamond News, a Master's Tale, Former Reedley College Tigers & Stags in the Snow!

 Saturday, February 7th

Sports abound: With the Super Bowl set to kick-off in 30 hours so, the Olympics underway, and Winter and Fall sports merging, brevity is the rule of the day! Postseason hoops and March Madness are right around the corner!

A couple of quick shout-outs:

#1: Cooper Steele and his Cougars for upending mighty Clovis West in high school girls basketball. Coop has built a mighty program at Clovis High...a first class program! Keep it rolling Coop! One of Cooper's players--Long Beach State bound Sadie Sin--a joy to watch! Plenty of season left for the Cougs...

Clovis High & Coop

#2: Another former player, Cliff Hodge, is balling away for the Meralco Bolts of the Philippine Professional League...Cliff was always personable and gritty...I came across his picture on Instagram this week...one thing Cliff could always do well--block shots! Cliff attended Lemoore High School...

Cliff on Father's Day

Cliff Balling!

(Note to self, a reunion with my former Reedley College guys needs to happen in the next couple of years. 2029 will mark the 29th anniversary of our trip to Selland Arena & the Elite 8.) 

#3. Fairfield Lacrosse Men's Lacrosse with the thrilling OT win on Saturday, Feb. 6...Let's just say I know a guy, more on that down the road....here is a look at the Stags--celebrating in the snow!

Fairfield Lacrosse

I digress....

Personal tidbit: I am jazzed to share I will be calling a slate of CSU Bakersfield Baseball on Softball games streamed on ESPN +....the first baseball game will be Sunday, Feb. 15 as Southern Indiana completes a 3-game stand in Bakersfield...I will also be behind the mic for games with Utah Tech and St. Mary's...as a NorCal guy, it is always a special thrill to announce teams I have a connection to and with--I earned my Master's Degree from St. Marys...God is a Gael after all! Yes it's true...anyone can earn a Master's Degree, I am living proof. (Although I have to credit Chico State Head Women's Basketball Coach Brian Fogel with the inspiration to attend grad school. Foges uttered something like this in my ear: "...B if I can do it, you can do it!" I am also looking forward to calling the Fresno State Softball team when they play in Bako on March 3...years ago at Sac State, I covered softball for the State Hornet--the university's student newspaper--and one thing I remember about watching Bulldog Softball back in the day: the Dogs could mash! First collegiate softball HR was off of the bat of a Bulldog...one other player I remember, Cal's left-handed fireballer Michele Grainger...the former Bear and Olympic Champion rocked the heat! Pure gas...

Super Bowl Prediction, Kind of Sort of:

Like the season, I can see this game going many ways...my gut says 19-13 Seattle, but...my gut is often is often wide left...I can see this game coming down to a drive at the end however...the result could easily be 20-19 Patriots...speaking of the Pats, Tony Eason where are you Champaign Tony?!? Tony the former Delta High QB, who later started at American River Community College (Sacramento), then at the University of Illinois...similar to Tony, Mike Vrabel's Patriots...well, they are hard not to like! Speaking of liking...I am darn near giddy about the Raider's new hire Klint Kubiak...Coach K and Fernando Mendoza bringing Hope and Hope to the Raiders...both Dudes are devout Christians...after selling their souls for Las Vegas, perhaps the Raiders are headed in the right direction?!? Things are indeed looking "Up" for the Silver and Black...

Quick CVC Basketball Notes: 

It will be an important night in Visalia, as COS hosts Lemoore...on the Men's Side, Lemoore comes in 13-10, 6-3 in conference. The Eagles are currently chasing COS, who currently sits alone at second place, 17-6 overall and 8-1 in conference...the #21 ranked Giants are hoping the Reedley Tigers upset league-leading Columbia (#12, 19-4, 9-0 in the CVC)...plenty of playoff implication on the line this evening in the Porter Field House...reminder, the Claim Jumpers visit COS in 13 days--Friday, May 20. 

On the Women's side, #11 ranked COS currently resides in 3rd place with a 6-2 record...#8 Lemoore is in second, at 7-1...back in January, the Giants were cold in the Eagles' 75-56 win...both teams are chasing Fresno City...Alex Fletcher has his #6 ranked, and 7-0 (17-6) Rams rolling! FCC hosts Merced this evening...the possibility of a 3-way tie in play...COS would have to knock off both Lemoore and COS, and then hope for a little help--ideally from Lemoore!

Here is a look at my setup at COS...I am forever grateful to the Giants for the opportunity to broadcast their sporting events on the Sequoias Sports Network... College President Brent Calvin, Athletic Director Brent Davis, along with Assistant AD & Asst. Men's Basketball Coach Tommy Lu all have made me feel right at home on Mooney Ave...announcing the Reedley College games a kick, although, it sure didn't make me feel any younger! Here are the box scores from the games on Wednesday Night, February 4. Both teams have players that 4-year coaches may just want add to their recruiting lists!?!  (2/4: COS vs. Reedley Men's Box Score; 2/4: COS vs Reedley Women's Box Score)

   See you on the court (or fields!)...remember to stop by and say hello. Enjoy your sports weekend!

Jumpers Outlast COS to Remain on Top of the CVC (1/28); NFL Ramblings & Schedule, & The University of Nevada (Reno) a Boom to the Raiders

 Central Valley Conference Basketball notes from Wednesday, January 28. NFL Notes Below.

On the Men's Side, Columbia with the long-range buzzer beater stuns COS 76-73 in an "Instant Classic." Cameron Kelly led the Giants with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Kion Hayes chipped in with 13. For the Claim Jumpers, Ahsan Huff pulled down a game-high 17 rebounds and tallied 16 points. EJ White and Derron Cambell each added 13 points. The Jumpers improved to 17-4, 7-0 in the CVC. COS stands at 15-6, and 6-1. Mark it down: these two teams meet once again in Visalia, on Friday February 20th with a scheduled tip off in the Porter Fieldhouse for 6 p.m.

The game appeared to be head to overtime, when the following ensued. COS fans, I might recommend you look away. Here is Mario Ramos on the call for NorCal Sports TV: https://youtu.be/3ABmd7R3Znw

CVC Schedule for Saturday, January 31.

COS Men travel to Coalinga (2-19, 0-7); COS Women (11-11, 4-2) travel to Taft (15-6, 2-4);                          Columbia Men visit Fresno City (7-14, 2-5);                                                                                                      Reedley visits Lemoore, while Merced will be hosting Porterville in doubleheaders. The men will play first, tipping off at 3 p.m.

Upcoming Broadcast Schedule:

*Wednesday February 4th vs Reedley; Men Tip Off at 5 p.m., Women 7 p.m., or approximately 20 minutes after the conclusion of the Men's Game. This will be a particular thrill, as I coached the Reedley Men for 16 years!

*Saturday, February 7th vs Lemoore; Men tip off at 3 p.m, Women at 5 p.m., or approximately 20 minutes after the conclusion of the Men's Game.

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NFL Notes, Including a Suggestion for the Raiders, 3-Dot Style...

In an NFL season where seemingly every week, just about every game was up for grabs, is it any surprise the Seahawks will be battling the Patriots? The Seahawks have always had the reputation for playing tough D, while everyone seems to have only positive things to say about New England Head Coach Mike Vrabel (the real question might be, Tennessee--why did you let this guy out of your building!?!)...I also find it fascinating that when it comes to finding the new and hot next NFL coach, all eyes turn to Offensive Coordinators--while in Super Bowl 60, the two head coaches both have defensive backgrounds. Michael McDonald (I still think of the lead singer for the Doobie Brothers every time I hear that name--China Grove Baby!!). It makes me wonder if the guys who are figuring out how to contain the NFL offenses, might just be the guys with the answers--and perhaps they have the secret sauce to developing NFL quarterbacks. Drake Maye and much-traveled and maligned Sam Darnold have blossomed have blossomed, and perhaps the two Dudes calling the shots are big reasons why!?!...If Seattle is victorious in Santa Clara on Superbowl Sunday, then the former Jets-Panthers-49ers-Viking will be the story. 

Like many have suggested, why doesn't the NFL simply revert back to a 16 game schedule, with 2 byes...why don't the players and the players union simply demand it!?! The season is so rigorous on every level, why not protect the assets...(of course we know why, it's the $$$$$$); here is my suggestion for the league to also make their money: 16 game schedule, 2 byes, add an 8th team; then, on Wild Card Weekend, the #1 and #2 teams earn a bye. I believe fans would much rather see a pair of wild card games, then a shabby or shoddy Week 17...look at all of the QB's who were dinged up-and they are the protected ones!?! Herbert, Nix, Burrow, Daniels, Purdy, etc...go back to adding the 4th preseason game--take care of your Dudes NFL!...I will have to circle back to NFL suggestions, as there are plenty of layers to work through here!

One final thought, as the Raiders are possibly on the verge of deciding on a head coach Saturday January 31 (Klint Kubiak appears to be the front-runner to garner the title of Head Coach)...running a professional sports team is no walk in the park; look how long it has taken well run organizations to lift the trophy across the board...however to Mark Davis, I might suggest the following...the Raiders have lost their way; they have moved from a tough, working man's town of Oakland, to the jet setting, country club ways of Las Vegas. Perhaps they need to tap into their past? Training Camp in Santa Rosa? Training Camp in Northern California, with a scrimmage at Cal-Berkeley--the fans in NorCal would go bonkers to see their boys return! Let me move off the nostalgia and into reality (kind of sort of!?!)--the Raiders need to figure out a way to beat the Chiefs, Broncos, and Chargers...so let's start with the rare air in Denver; to help prepare...why not have training camp, or part of training camp in Nevada's other university, The University of Nevada (formerly called Nevada-Reno)? The Silver and Black could spend a week or so in Reno, becoming better acclimated to elevation...then imagine this--a scrimmage open to the public in Reno's Mackay Stadium would be wonderful--and all of the "old" Raiders fans from NorCal, would only be a reasonable drive away...The University of New Mexico could be another venue to look into, but as Nevada is your home, why not utilize the University of Nevada on the ascent...Just Win Baby! Starting with beating the Broncos, may prove to be the call!?! (I may have to write a letter to Mark Davis...so it looks like I can return to a deep Raider dive in the future as well!)

                                                      Thank You For Perusing!

                        Ideally 2026 has started well for you--and on to February we go!

*A cup of coffee is always welcome, and if you see me on the courts or fields, please say hello!

1/22/25: Personal Tidbit, Sequoias Sports Network Basketball Schedule, and Central Valley Conference Hoop Updates.

 Note: It has been a pleasure to provide the play-by-play for select College of the Sequoias (COS) Men's & Women's Basketball Home Games on the Sequoias Sports Network! I am grateful to Athletic Director Brent Davis for the opportunity! Assistant AD/Assistant Men's Basketball Coach Tommy Luu is our technical wizard on the broadcasts. Tommy makes it all happen! There are a couple of ways to watch the broadcasts,

1. On YouTube, YouTube COS Giant;

2. Log on to the COS Athletics' Website COS Athletic Website; then log on to either the Men's or Women's Basketball schedule ; finally, click on "live stream".

Upcoming Broadcast Schedule:

*Wednesday February 4th vs Reedley; Men Tip Off at 5 p.m., Women 7 p.m., or approximately 20 minutes after the conclusion of the Men's Game. This will be a particular thrill, as I coached the Reedley Men for 16 years!

*Saturday, February 7th vs Lemoore; Men tip off at 3 p.m, Women at 5 p.m., or approximately 20 minutes after the conclusion of the Men's Game.

*Tuesday, February 17th vs Porterville; Both the Men's Game, 5 p.m., and the Women's Game at 7 p.m., will be streamed, and there may be a guest announcer!?!  Athletic Director Brent Davis has been gracious enough to all me a night off hoops, and the diamond--I will be in Bakersfield announcing the Roadrunners home baseball game with Utah Tech.

**Friday, February 20 vs Columbia, Men's Game only, Prime Time @ 6 p.m.! This match-up should provide plenty of fireworks! Currently both Columbia and COS are undefeated! This game will also be a tremendous joy--I served an assistant for 3 seasons at Columbia under legendary coach Denny Aye. The 1992-93 upset Ventura to capture the State Championship. Another personal twist, Columbia is currently coached by Rob Hoyt. The "Rocket" was one of my assistants at Reedley. Rob played a tremendous role in our 2008-2009 team (Ron Gonzalez was our other fantastic assistant)  that reached the State Final 8, and finished the season 25-7. The Jumpers vs. Giants will be a doozie, and is on course to be an intense battle, and most likely, and Instant Classic. This will be the final regular season game for both teams.

***TBA, Community College Regional Playoffs; Wednesday, Feb. 25, Saturday Feb. 28, and Saturday March 7. The State Finals will be held at COS, the fabulous Porter Field House March 13, 14, 15

COS Hoops & Central Valley Conference Basketball Update:

The depth of the COS Men's team was once again on display Wednesday (1/21) as the Giants 61-39. Sophomore Cameron Kelly led all scorers with 17, while grabbing 15 rebounds. Kelly is such a delight to watch on the floor (I also met Cameron's parents during December-wonderful people!). Guard Kareem Barnett chipped in with 15, while Corcoran's Javon Bragg added 10. Merced was lead by sophomores Kalen Cobb with 12, and Quincy White with 11.  (1/21 COS vs Merced Box Score)

The Giants and Claim Jumpers appeared headed for two explosive showdowns to decide the conference championship. The first match-up will be on Wednesday, January 28 in Sonora; these two stellar teams will duke it out once again in Visalia on Friday, February 20. Both games will tip off at 6 p.m.

Men's Standings: COS & Columbia 5-0, Merced & Lemoore 3-2, Porterville 2-3, Reedley & Fresno City at 1-4, and Coaling is looking for their first win.

The COS Women were clicking on Wednesday (1/21) as they were triumphant over Merced 93-35. Freshman guards Nyla Anderson and Stockton's Kalysa Phanhsavang were superb. Anderson finished with a scoring 9-12 from the field-and 5-8 from beyond the arc-good for 23 points. (Nyla also produced one of our broadcasts, and the freshman from Texas is simply an impressive young person!) Phanhasavang tallied 20 points-3 of 3 from long distance-while dishing out 8 assists. Demi Boykin snagged 14 boards. This COS team will be a team to keep an eye on the second time through the conference.

Alex Fletcher has his Fresno City Rams rolling after knocking off Lemoore Wednesday77-56! FCC currently stands alone at the top of the conference. The Rams and Lemoore share indentical records of 14-6. FCC will host Reedley on Saturday (1/24). The Tigers are coming off a big win over Taft...Reedley travels to FCC Saturday Night (1/24) and a Tiger "upset" would throw the conference race into a heap!

Women's Standing: FCC 4-0, Lemoore 4-1, COS 3-2, Reedley 2-2, Taft 2-3, Merced 1-3, and Porterville 0-4. Coalinga College plans to field a Women's Team in the 2026-27 season.

                                  Good Day, and Good Sport! See You on the Court!

The Dog Ate My Homework Edition; SLO Indoor Volleyball, Mendoza Mania, Coach Cignetti & a Plethora of College Hoop Notes, Including a Reedley College Instant Classic!

Leading Off:  Well, as we begin, January 13 is my eldest offspring's 23rd Birthday! She is off, living her best life on the East Coast...Thus, looking backwards into 2025, some of "Buy That Person a Milkshake Awards" go to...

Cal Poly Women's Volleyball. What a sensational run by the Mustangs reaching the NCAA's Division 1 Sweet 16! The Mustangs knocked off BYU and regional host USC to advance to the Round of 16..SLO is a bit of a hidden gem on the national volleyball scene, as they have historically been a very solid program. In fact, their last Sweet 16 appearance, was back in 2007, and in 2019, they advanced to the second round after knocking off Georgia...Head Coach Caroline Walters is no stranger to NCAA success. As a sophomore at Santa Clara in 2005, Walters anchored a back row that enabled her Broncos to make a run to the Final Four (Washington captured the title)...I was fortunate to announce Cal Poly when they visited CSU Bakersfield a season ago (2024); Coach Walters was insightful, and gracious with her time...one of my favorite players to cover a year ago, was Mustang setter Emme Bullis...Bulis was both tenacious and "sneaky" at the net...in basketball parlance, Bullis was the like the point guard who could score when her team needed a bucket; and could also make the big-time block on D...the Mustangs would fall to Kentucky in straight sets, hanging tough and providing some sparkling play against an immensely powerful KU line-up. The Wildcats were eventually knocked out in the semis by eventual National Champion Texas A&M...The Aggies, well, they may have played in the match to end all matches: the Ags upended unbeaten Nebraska to advance to the Final Four--winning set four in scintillating fashion 37-35...volleyball as a spectator sport is growing and growing, and to me, it simply needs to figure out a way to incorporate a little Savannah Bananas or Minor League Baseball...with so many athletes playing the sport, it would seem there is an untapped audience out in the universe...the matches can be a little longggggg--my suggestion, all sets to 21...I would let a 5th set play out to 21 as well-let the drama build! However, that winner-take-all deciding set would be reached with a tad more temp with games to 21...on a personal note, I enjoyed my first taste of calling the action for Cal State Monterey Bay and the CCAA (California Collegiate Athletic Conference)...It was also a special moment calling Santa Clara's match at Bakersfield in September...my family has a long connection to Santa Clara--my sister and brother-in-law are proud Broncos; we have dear family friends who are Broncos (Flahertys), and my father was friends with longtime SCU baseball coach Sal Taromina...Coach Sal, used to come down to my hometown of Isleton to go pheasant hunting with my father's gang...calling the Broncos match, a full-circle thrill...

Mendoza Mania/Francisco Mendoza. The buzz created by Heisman Trophy Winner Fernando Mendoza, his Indiana University teammates and head coach Curt Cignetti is off the charts...and, all of those Hoosier Alumni, who apparently are the largest alunmi group in the land, are digging the ascension...with the National Champion game set fro Monday, Jan. 19 in Miami--vs. the U of Miami none-the-less--the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami could be a sea of red! Tickets cost for this National Champion are not cheap, but that doesn't seem to be affecting fans of IU and the U...Cignetti appears to be a master talent evaluator and his "veteran" ballclub, reminds me of the San Diego State Basketball team that made the run to the national finals--both teams are very mature, don't panic, and limit mistakes. Perhaps most importantly, both teams have talented players who make plays when games are on the line! (Here is a solid read on the makeup of IU's team: Cignetti's IU Bunch). Mendoza Mania is also giving hope to the many, dare I say desperate Raider fans, hoping that Mendoza brings his magic along to Las Vegas...the Raiders have the first pick in April's NFL draft...Mendoza maintains pinpoint accuracy and the ability to move around in the pocket...the former Cal Bear caught my eye while playing for the Bears in Berkeley...when he runs, he looks like someone who has played soccer--he often will utilize small steps, like those used on the pitch...all eyes will be on Francisco during the National Championship Game...one interesting note to keep an eye on is Hurricane QB Carson Beck...if Beck outshines Mendoza and leads the Hurricane to a an upset victory, the pre-draft chatter will become very interesting...By most accounts, Beck would appears to be a second or third round selection as we chat...by the way, the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, looks like a venue that could or perhaps should be on many sports traveler's Bucket List!

Broadcasting Information: This fall I am providing play-by-play for the College of Sequoias (COS) in Visalia, in the heart of Central California; and I have filled on CSU Monterey Bay telecasts that are aired on FLOCollege Sports...select games are available on YouTube, on the COS Giant channel...In the beginning of January, I was fortunate to be on the call for an instant classic, as Citrus College from Southern California outlasted COS in overtime...these two teams are filled with future 4-year players...here is a link to the epic battle (https://www.youtube.com/live/umvcscx45-Q?si=dchHAidDsmjSWNAm)...ironically years ago, our Reedley College team rode into Citrus College, and ended their 38 home game winning streak! For a peek at that game, you can check it out here (https://youtu.be/neva7qGm0GE?si=TTdzu_PdhTWgucRE)...You will notice Rob "Rocket" Hoyt early in the video--Coach Rob is now the head Coach at Columbia College...his Claim Jumpers and COS appear on a collision course for the Central Valley Conference Title! Columbia visits COS on Feb. 20, and that game should be a dandy--tune in for my call, you won't want to miss that tilt...For more notes on that game, head over to my Facebook page...quick around the horn with a couple more tardy tips of the caps:

*COS Men's Basketball Coach Dallas Jensen for earning his 200th win--the Coaching Dude is on the Uber fast track. Coach Dallas is currently entering season #9...Jensen is part of a true Basketball Family, his father and brother are also coaches, and his son--one heck of a high school player!

*CSU East Bay Men's Basketball Coach Bryan Rooney. Coach Rooney's D-II squad currently sits at 15-0, with a game scheduled vs. Stanislaus State on Saturday (1/16) afternoon...B. Rooney is a Coaching Dude, and a Bay Area Gem! Bryan played for Brian Katz at Delta College, and I believe Bill Treseler at Domincan College?!? Coach Katz and Coach Tres two of my favs...Keep it rolling Pioneers. East Bay was known as Hayward State back in the day...

*Chico State's Women's Basketball is off to a 9-0 start in the CCAA, and 13-2 overall...Chico State is coached by the Most Entertaining Gent, Brian Fogle...Foges was a player back in the day at Sonoma State, and has coached at UC Davis and San Francisco State along the way...Foges team eeked out a clutch win in OT on Thursday 1/15 vs. Cal Poly Humboldt, and will host the Lumberjacks on Saturday in Chico...all of Chico State's home games can be heard on KPAY 1290 (KPAYsports.com) out of Chico...

                   

                Here is to a Happy, Healthy, Safe & Prosperous 2026:  Cheers Everyone!

                  Remember if you enjoy my Ramblings...you can treat the coffee!