Early Life and Childhood Otto Everett Graham Jr. was born on December 6, 1921, in Waukegan, Illinois. He was the youngest of two children to Otto Sr. and Norma Graham. From an early age, it was evident that Otto had a knack for sports. His father, who was a football coach, introduced him to various sports, and his mother, a pianist, encouraged his musical interests. Otto excelled in both athletics and academics during his school years. High School and College Graham attended Waukegan High School, where he was a standout athlete in football, basketball, and baseball. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to Northwestern University, where he continued to shine in multiple sports. At Northwestern, Otto played quarterback for the Wildcats and was also a talented basketball player. His performances on the football field began to draw national attention. Professional Football Career Cleveland Browns (1946-1955) Otto Graham’s professional career took off when he joined the Cleveland Browns in the All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1946. Under the guidance of head coach Paul Brown, Graham quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks. The Browns dominated the AAFC, winning four consecutive championships from 1946 to 1949. When the AAFC merged with the NFL in 1950, the Browns continued their dominance. Graham led the team to three NFL championships in 1950, 1954, and 1955. Known for his incredible accuracy, leadership, and composure under pressure, Graham was the driving force behind the Browns’ success. Over his professional career, he played in ten championship games, winning seven of them—a testament to his consistency and excellence. Career Highlights and Awards NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP): 1951, 1953, 1955 NFL Championship Titles: 1950, 1954, 1955 Pro Bowl Selections: Three times First-Team All-Pro Selections: Seven times NFL Passing Yards Leader: Twice NFL Passing Touchdowns Leader: Three times Induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame: 1965 Graham retired with impressive career statistics, including 23,584 passing yards and 174 passing touchdowns. His winning percentage as a starting quarterback remains one of the highest in NFL history. Life After Football Following his retirement from professional football in 1955, Otto Graham pursued various career paths. He served as the head coach and athletic director at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy from 1959 to 1966. Under his leadership, the academy’s football team saw significant improvement and even achieved an undefeated season in 1963. Graham later returned to the NFL as the head coach of the Washington Redskins from 1966 to 1968. Although his tenure with the Redskins was brief and less successful than his playing career, he remained a respected figure in the football community. Personal Life and Legacy Off the field, Otto Graham was known for his humility, integrity, and dedication to his family. He married his high school sweetheart, Beverly, and together they had three children. Graham’s contributions to the game of football extend beyond his impressive statistics and accolades. He helped set the standard for modern quarterbacks and is remembered as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Otto Graham passed away on December 17, 2003, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. His impact on the game of football continues to be celebrated by fans and players alike. Otto Graham’s life and career remain an inspiration, demonstrating the values of hard work, dedication, and leadership. If you have any specific aspects you’d like to delve deeper into, just let me know! Views: 36
Category: NCAA
SHORT RECAP OF 2024 MARCH MADNESS FIRST DAY FIRST ROUND
Upsets and Big Moments: NC State Shocks Texas Tech: Score: NC State 80 Texas Tech 67 Recap: Burns dominated the paint, scoring 16 points in just 16 minutes. The Wolfpack outscored Texas Tech 42-20 in the paint, securing a stunning upset against the 6th-seeded Red Raiders. 11 Seeds Making Noise: Watch Out For: No. 11 seeds Context: Several No. 11 seeds have a history of deep runs. Keep an eye on these underdogs as they aim to upset higher-ranked opponents. Samford’s Incredible Comeback: Almost There: Samford Story: Down 22 points in the second half, Samford clawed their way back to within 1 point against a formidable opponent. Despite the loss, their resilience was awe-inspiring. Blowout Games: South Carolina Dominates: Result Key Stat: Outscored their opponent by a 14 point margin.Kansas Survives Exhausting Battle: Result: Kansas narrowly escaped Samford in a late-night thriller. Quick Turnaround: They face fifth-seeded Gonzaga with only 39 hours of rest. Key Matchups for Today: Kansas vs. Gonzaga: Time: 3:15 p.m. ET Coach Watch: Bill Self (Kansas) vs. Mark Few (Gonzaga) A clash of titans as the Jayhawks take on the Bulldogs. Other Exciting Duels: Stay Tuned: Multiple matchups promise drama, buzzer-beaters, and Cinderella stories. March Madness is more about matchups than seeding, and yesterday’s games proved just that. As the tournament unfolds, expect more heart-stopping moments, unexpected heroes, and bracket-busting surprises. Buckle up, basketball fans—it’s madness season! 🏀🔥 Views: 146
THE 2024 TO MARCH MADNESS FIRST FOUR TEAMS: PREDICTIONS
Hi ! Artie Fischal here giving you my personal picks for the FIRST FOUR games being played tonight and tomorrow night. 1. Virginia Cavaliers (No. 10 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 23-10 (13-7 ACC) The Cavaliers had a strong showing in the ACC, and their stifling defense could pose problems for opponents. Look for them to grind out a win. 2. Colorado State Rams (No. 10 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 24-10 (10-8 Mountain West) The Rams have balanced scoring and solid rebounding. Their matchup against Virginia promises to be intense. 3. Boise State Broncos (No. 10 seed, South Region) Record: 22-10 (13-5 Mountain West) Boise State boasts a high-scoring offense led by sharpshooters. Can they outgun their opponents? 4. Colorado Buffaloes (No. 10 seed, South Region) Record: 24-10 (13-7 Pac-12) Colorado’s disciplined play and strong inside presence make them a formidable team. 5. Montana State Bobcats (No. 16 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 17-17 (9-9 Big Sky) The Bobcats are the underdogs, but March Madness is all about surprises. Can they pull off an upset? 6. Grambling Tigers (No. 16 seed, Midwest Region) Record: 20-14 (14-4 SWAC) Grambling is making its first NCAA Tournament appearance. Watch out for their hunger and determination. 7. Howard Bison (No. 16 seed, West Region) Record: 18-16 (9-5 MEAC) Howard’s Cinderella story begins here. Can they shock the world? 8. Wagner Seahawks (No. 16 seed, West Region) Record: 16-15 (7-9 NEC) Wagner aims to prove that they belong on the big stage. Can they make history? Projected Winners Tuesday, March 19 Wagner vs. Howard (West Region) Projected Winner: Wagner The Seahawks’ experience gives them the edge. Colorado State vs. Virginia (Midwest Region) Projected Winner: Virginia The Cavaliers’ defense prevails in a close battle. Wednesday, March 20 Montana State vs. Grambling (Midwest Region) Projected Winner: Grambling The Tigers’ hunger leads them to victory. Boise State vs. Colorado (South Region) Projected Winner: Boise State The Broncos’ scoring prowess seals the deal. Artie Fischal [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 132
THE BIRTH of BASKETBALL: JAMES NAISMITH and SPRINGFIELD COLLEGE
[adrotate group=”1″] 🏀 Basketball, unlike most popular sports, has a concise and all-American origin—it is the only major sport strictly rooted in the United States. The game was created by James Naismith, a physical education instructor, around December 1, 1891, at the International Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Training School (now Springfield College) in Springfield, Massachusetts. Naismith designed the game as an indoor activity to keep athletes active during the winter months. Little did he know that his invention would become a global phenomenon. Early Years and Growth Outdoor Beginnings: In the early years, the number of players on a team varied based on class size and playing area. The first games were played with varying team sizes, but eventually settled on five players per team—a rule that remains unchanged to this day. Canada’s Role: Since Naismith and five of his original players were Canadians, it’s not surprising that Canada was the first country outside the United States to embrace basketball. The game quickly spread to other countries, including France, England, Australia, China, India, and Japan. Collegiate Sport: Within a decade, basketball became a collegiate sport, and the first professional league was formed in 1898. Olympic Inclusion: Basketball gained inclusion in the Olympic Games in 1936 and grew in international popularity following World War II. The NBA: The formation of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1949 cemented the sport’s cultural importance in the United States. Crawfordsville, Indiana: The Cradle of Basketball Montgomery County, Indiana, situated between Indianapolis and Lafayette, proudly claims the title of the “Cradle of Basketball.” First Indiana High School Champions: The first eight Indiana High School state championships were won by schools within 30 miles of Crawfordsville. Crawfordsville High School clinched the inaugural title in 1911. Dominance of Crawfordsville: From 1915 to 1969, Crawfordsville dominated, winning 32 sectional titles. Waynetown’s Upset: In 1970, Waynetown High School pulled off a surprise upset over Crawfordsville, winning the sectional championship. Kim “The Closer” Suitors scored 17 points in the final quarter during that memorable game. Alamo Gym: The Alamo gym, south of Waynetown, still stands, albeit in disrepair. Its beautiful murals on the 1941 façade are a testament to its basketball legacy. “Hoosiers” Connection: Fans of the movie “Hoosiers” might recognize New Richmond, also known as the town of “Hickory.” The town embraced its notoriety gained from its part in the film. March Madness and Crawfordsville March Madness, the thrilling college basketball tournament, has its origins in Crawfordsville, Indiana. While the phrase was coined in Evansville, Crawfordsville has long been considered the host of the first basketball game in Indiana’s history. With the spotlight on Crawfordsville, Indiana, this year, the hardwoods once again become the center of the basketball universe. So next time you watch a basketball game during March Madness, remember that it all began with James Naismith’s vision and found its roots in the heart of Indiana—Crawfordsville. 🏀🌟 For more details, explore the Basketball Heritage Trail and discover the incredible stories and landmarks that make Montgomery County an unforgettable place for hoops history. [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 169
BEWARE of FAKE TICKETS: SAFEGUARD YOUR MARCH MADNESS EXPERIENCE
[adrotate group=”1″] MARCH MADNESS—the exhilarating crescendo of college basketball—beckons fans with the promise of electrifying games, roaring crowds, and unforgettable moments. As the tournament approaches, the scramble for tickets intensifies. But amidst the frenzy, there’s a lurking danger: fake tickets peddled by unscrupulous vendors and scalpers. The Scam Landscape Online Pitfalls: The internet, a double-edged sword, offers countless avenues to find tickets. Unfortunately, some of these listings are rip-offs. In 2019 alone, the Better Business Bureau received nearly 400 reports related to ticket scams for sporting events, concerts, and theater shows. Beware of enticing online deals that seem too good to be true. Individual Sellers: Most scams occur when buying from individuals. Picture this: you meet someone on the street or transact online, believing you’ve secured a legitimate ticket. But here’s the twist—multiple buyers may hold the same ticket. The first person to scan it at the venue gains entry, leaving others stranded. Shield Yourself: Practical Tips Source Wisely: Venue First: Whenever possible, purchase directly from the venue. Official ticket sales agents now offer secondary sales options. Know Your Source: Understand the difference between: Professional Ticket Brokers: Legitimate, accredited resellers. Ticket Scalpers: Unregulated and unlicensed sellers. Scammers: The ones peddling counterfeit tickets. Check Credentials: Look up sellers on BBB.org to learn from others’ experiences. Verify if they’re members of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB), which offers a 200% purchase guarantee. Online Caution: Trustworthy Vendors: Buy only from trusted online vendors. Look for the lock symbol in the web address, indicating a secure purchasing system. Avoid Email Links: Scammers often create web addresses resembling well-known companies. Don’t click through from emails or online ads. Know the Refund Policy: Transparency Matters: Ensure the reseller provides clear details about the transaction terms. Seat Location Disclosure: Sellers should reveal the exact seat location represented by the tickets. Shipping or Pickup: If tickets aren’t immediately accessible, know when they’ll ship or be available for pickup. Safe Payment Methods: Credit Cards: Always use credit cards for ticket purchases. They offer recourse if things go awry. Avoid Risky Methods: Debit cards, wire transfers, or cash transactions leave you vulnerable. Spotting Red Flags Too Good to Be True: If the price seems unrealistically low, pause and reconsider. Ripped Tags and Irregular Markings: Inspect merchandise for signs of tampering. Authorized Retail Locations: Opt for authorized retail stores and licensed online vendors. Final Words March Madness is a celebration of basketball prowess, camaraderie, and sheer adrenaline. Don’t let fake tickets tarnish your experience. Arm yourself with knowledge, stay vigilant, and cheer for your team without falling prey to scams. Remember, the thrill of victory should never be shadowed by the agony of a counterfeit ticket. [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 135
CAITLIN CLARK vs. PETE MARAVICH: A SCORING DUEL
[adrotate group=”1″] The Records: 🏀 Pete Maravich: College Years : Maravich played for Louisiana State University (LSU) from 1967 to 1970. Scoring Average: He averaged an astounding 44.2 points per game during his college career. Total Points: Maravich set an NCAA record with a total of 3,667 points. (In 3 years), Total Points: Notably, Maravich achieved this feat without the benefit of the 3-point shot, which was introduced later, and he accomplished it in just three season. (Freshmen not allowed to play) Playing Style: Maravich was a shooting, dribbling, and passing wizard who dominated the college game. Caitlin Clark: College Years: Clark currently plays for the University of Iowa and has been making waves since 2020. Scoring Prowess: She is a scoring dynamo, consistently putting up impressive numbers. Current Total Points: As of now, Clark has amassed 3,650 points. Advantages: Unlike Maravich, she has the advantage of the 3-point shot and other modern rules. Playing Style: Clark’s playing style is reminiscent of Maravich’s—fearless, aggressive, and with a shoot-first mentality. Should There Be an Asterisk? The question of whether Caitlin Clark should have an asterisk next to her name when she breaks Maravich’s scoring record is subjective. Here are some considerations: Era and Rules: Maravich played in a different era, without the shot clock or the 3-point line. These factors significantly impacted gameplay. Clark’s achievements occur in a more modern context, with rule changes that favor high-scoring games. Duration: Maravich achieved his record in three seasons, while Clark is on track to surpass it in four seasons. Some argue that the longer duration gives Clark more opportunities to accumulate points. Individual Accomplishments: Both players stand on their own merits. Clark’s achievements are remarkable, regardless of Maravich’s record. Comparing them directly may not be entirely fair, as they played different games under different circumstances. Conclusion: Caitlin Clark’s scoring prowess is undeniable, and she deserves recognition for her achievements. Whether an asterisk should accompany her record-breaking moment is a matter of perspective. Ultimately, both players have left an indelible mark on college basketball, each in their unique way. As fans, let’s celebrate their greatness without diminishing either player’s legacy. 🏀 [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 171
MARCH MADNESS FROM THE BEGINNINGS (a poem)
[adrotate group=”1″] 🏀This poem captures the essence of March Madness, from its inception in 1939 to the memorable moments that have defined the tournament. It celebrates the spirit of competition, the joy of victory, and the heartbreak of defeat that are all part of this beloved annual event. Enjoy the Madness! 🏀 Wayne Lawrence In the heartland of Hoosiers, where basketball reigns, A tradition was born, amidst cheers and refrains. March Madness, they call it, a tournament grand, Where dreams are made real, in this basketball land. It started in ’39, with just eight teams in play, Ohio State lost to Oregon, on that historic day. Year by year, the field grew, the excitement did too, Every spring, the nation watched, as the Madness ensued. From Texas Western’s glory, in the year of ’66, To Bird versus Magic, in ’79, a rivalry affixed. The underdogs and upsets, the Cinderella tales, Laettner’s shot, NC State’s win, history regales. The brackets, the buzzer-beaters, the thrill of the fight, The shining moments under the Final Four’s bright light. Coaches, players, fans alike, all part of the dance, In the Madness of March, everyone has a chance. Through decades of dunks, of victories and tears, The Madness of March is the highlight of the year. So here’s to the teams, to the games we adore, In the Madness of March, it’s the love of the score. Artie Fischal [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 161
2024 MARCH MADNESS PICK SHEETS , UPDATES AND OCCASIONAL OPINION
Yes I will have “MY PICKS” so you can compare your picks to mine. (And Laugh or Cry)I will have A “MASTER BRACKET”, “WHAT IF YOU CHOSE THE HIGH PICKS” for each game. Yes I will have MY PICKS. An “UPSET” will be RED on “ALL HIGH PICKS” Bracket. GREEN indicate HIGH SEED Win. What is a seed? Merely a starting place. Although unlikely, IT is possible for two 16 seeds to meet in the final game. Would lets say were, Michigan St., to be seeded as a number 16. They would still have to win all games to be CHAMPION ! SEEDING attempts to give a more favored team an easier path to the CHAMPIONSHIP. Seeding should lead to the best 2 teams playing in the final game. However there is always that upset minded team; or the chance that the favored team has a bad game, a stand out player is sick or injured. For more information feel free to go to… https://ftm.coursemateai.com/home 🏀 I tried to pin Artie Fischal into filling out a bracket. The Closest I got was his Final Four. One pick might throw you for a loop. All Number 1 seeds EXCEPT one. That one odd pick is TENNESEE. What do you think about this. Sorry for the mixup on the bracketts. I had them right to start with. BUT when they the NCAA Selection announced the position of the bracketts they had them in a different order, (which is how I posted them). I asked the friends and family if they heard the difference. They all agreed. So I changed my brackett setup. I should have checked how CBS or other sources had them. My fault. (i guess). MASTER [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-MASTER-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS MASTER BRACKETT”] ALL HIGH PICKS [[pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-HIGH-PICKS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS HIGH PICKS BRACKETT”] UPSETS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-UPSETS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS UPSETS BRACKETT”] Please do not loot at my picks! It might make youlaugh or cry? MY PICKS [pdf-embedder url=”https://fromthemiddle.blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/2024-MARCH-MADNESS-MY-PICKS-BRACKETT.pdf” title=”2024 MARCH MADNESS MY PICKS BRACKETT”] [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 206
RE: STUDENT ATHLETES GETTING PAID ENDORSEMENTS (NIL)
[adrotate group=”1″] 🏀 🏈 Here is a comparison between the non-scholarship major college student and the high profile student full ride scholarship in one of the top five athletic conferences: Aspect Non-scholarship student Full-ride scholarship student Tuition Has to pay for tuition, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000 per year depending on the school. Does not have to pay for tuition, which is covered by the scholarship. Housing Has to pay for housing, which can cost around $10,000 per year on average. Does not have to pay for housing, which is covered by the scholarship. Books and other expenses Has to pay for books and other expenses, which can add up to $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Does not have to pay for books and other expenses, which are covered by the scholarship. Financial aid May qualify for financial aid, such as grants, loans, or work-study, depending on their financial need and academic performance. May not qualify for financial aid, as the scholarship already covers their full cost of attendance. Academic requirements Has to meet the academic requirements of their major, which may vary depending on the field of study and the school. Has to meet the academic requirements of their scholarship, which may be higher than the minimum standards of the school. Athletic requirements Does not have to participate in any varsity sports, unless they choose to do so as a walk-on Has to participate in a varsity sport, and maintain a high level of performance and commitment Career prospects Has to compete with other graduates for jobs or further education, and may have to deal with student debt Has an advantage in terms of networking, exposure, and recognition, and does not have to worry about student debt By comparison of expenses the Athlete is getting between $22,000-$72,000 a year for playing a sport. (Not all athletes, mostly just Basketball and Football players). Over a 4 year career that totals to $88,000-$288,000. AND no STUDENT DEBT. Not a bad deal. However now they make Thousands on NIL. Some could finish their 4 years as MILLIONAIRES. CONCLUSION: If I had the chance to play a sport I love, get a college degree, and have NO expenses, other than the small things every body has, like dating expenses, an occasional night out. etc. etc. AND NO STUDENT DEBT. I would be happy as a lark. It is reported that Iowas Caitlin Clark has an NIL value of $818,000. Not picking on Ms Clark; she is the one that came up first. What I read is this is more than 120+ NBA players get. 🏈 🏀 Views: 149
HISTORY OF the WOMENS NCAA MARCH BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
[adrotate group=”1″] SELECTION SUNDAY FIRST GAME [wpcdt-countdown id=”15530″] [wpcdt-countdown id=”15537″] (People ask me why I don’t write about the Women’s March Madness. TIME ! I have 4 TVs going watching the men. Then posting the results, no time.) I did ask a friend if he would be willing to help with the womens tournament. He said yes. BUT I remebered his telling me about his Dad taking him to a PACERS game. He told me the Pacers were playing the Jets, and he thought Reggie Miller was a good quarterback. I decided to pass on his help. Thanks anyway. (No not looking for a volunteer outside my circle). SELECTION SUNDAY WILL TELECAST ON ESPN The NCAA women’s basketball tournament is an annual event that determines the national champion of Division I women’s college basketball in the United States. It began in 1982, following the dissolution of the AIAW, which had organized the women’s championship since 1972. The NCAA tournament has grown in popularity and prestige over the years, attracting millions of fans and producing some of the most memorable moments in women’s sports history. The tournament follows a similar format and selection process as the men’s tournament, with 68 teams competing in a single-elimination bracket. The teams are divided into four regions and seeded from 1 to 16, with the four lowest-seeded teams playing in the First Four games to advance to the first round. The regional winners then advance to the Women’s Final Four, where the national semifinals and final are held. The Women’s Final Four is usually scheduled on the same weekend as the men’s Final Four, but in a different host city. The most successful team in the history of the NCAA women’s basketball tournament is Connecticut, which has won 11 titles, including four consecutive championships from 2013 to 2016. The Huskies are coached by Geno Auriemma, who holds the record for the most wins in the tournament with 127. Other notable coaches who have led their teams to multiple titles include Pat Summitt of Tennessee, Tara VanDerveer of Stanford, Kim Mulkey of Baylor, and Muffet McGraw of Notre Dame. The tournament has also featured some of the greatest players in women’s basketball history, such as Cheryl Miller, Sheryl Swoopes, Lisa Leslie, Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, Breanna Stewart, and Sabrina Ionescu. Some of the most memorable games in the tournament include the 1991 final between Tennessee and Virginia, which went to overtime and was decided by a buzzer-beater by Dena Head; the 1994 final between North Carolina and Louisiana Tech, which was also decided by a buzzer-beater by Charlotte Smith; the 2006 final between Maryland and Duke, which went to an extra period and was won by a layup by Kristi Toliver; and the 2018 semifinal between Notre Dame and Connecticut, which was won by a last-second shot by Arike Ogunbowale. The most recent champion of the NCAA women’s basketball tournament is LSU, which defeated Iowa 102-85 in the 2023 final in Dallas, Texas. It was the first title for the Tigers and their coach Kim Mulkey, who had previously won three titles with Baylor. The 2023 tournament was also notable for the historic performance of Iowa’s Caitlin Clark*, who averaged 34.2 points per game and became the first player to score 100 points in the first two round, *Iowa’s Caitlin Clark has already, (this season), set a new women’s scoring record, scoring now sits at 3,569 career points, with 15 games to go. (At this writing). [adrotate group=”1″] Views: 138
