The Sparks Advance After 101-94 Victory Over San Antonio

Story by L.T.Willis

The Los Angeles Sparks advance to The Westerns Conference Finals after
beating San Antonio 101-94. Photo by Billy Calzada, Express-News/ San
Antonio Express-News.

The Los Angeles Sparks new that Game 2 of The Western Conference Semi Finals against The San Antonio Silver Stars wouldn't be any different than Game 1, they would have to come out in the first quarter and play Sparks' basketball. The leader of the team Candace Parker didn't have to be reminded about playing hard, or lack of rebounding by sitting on the bench for lack of effort. She set the tone early  in the first quarter, and led the Sparks to 101-94 victory over San Antonio to advance to the Western Conference Finals against either Minnesota or Seattle. The Sparks' defense which has been great all season long clamped down on the Silver Stars' offense to help ignite a 12-0 run to give the Sparks a 26-10 lead at the end of the first quarter. Candace Parker was just warming up had 10 points in the first quarter.

San Antonio Silver Stars' #23 Danielle Adams and Los Angeles
Sparks' # 30 Nneka Ogwumike. Photo by Billy Calzada Express-
News/San Antonio Express-News.

San Antonio's Danielle Adams one of the hardest working players in the WNBA was trying to do what she could with scoring and rebounding, but with Becky Hammon shooting poorly in the game, it was a up hill battle for the Silver Stars, however the Sparks were having problems with Sophia Young as she was having a great night against the Sparks, was one of the main reason they only trail the Sparks by 11 points at the half 51-40. Candace Parker dropped a 3-pointer shot at the end of the half that had the fans buzzing at The Freeman Coliseum.

The Sparks' #3 Candace Parker hit a big 3 point shot
at the end of the first  half. Photo by Billy Calzada
Express-News/San Antonio Express- News.

The Sparks defense really kept Becky Hammon from having one of those games where she just goes on a scoring spree and no one is going to stop her at all, and you have to give credit to Alana Beard, Kristi Toliver and company for not allowing her to take over the game. The Sparks were more physical with her and it effected her shooting during the game. The Sparks being more aggressive going to the basket was a major factor for them keeping the Silver Stars from catching up so far during the game.

The Silver Stars' #25 Becky Hammon being defended
By Sparks' #0 Alana Beard. Photo by Billy Calzada,
Express-News/San Antonio Express News.

 Trailing by 22 points the San Antonio Silvers Stars head coach Dan Hughes decided  to go to a smaller and quicker lineup too help get them back into the game, and that move paid off for the Silver Stars. They went on a 13-0 run to close the gap late, and early into the fourth quarter." I decided to play small ball, Silver stars coach Dan Hughes said." I wanted the element of spreading the floor at that point. We had been trying to do that scheme earlier, but we had better quickness on the floor, I wish i would have gone to a smaller lineup earlier."

Sophia Young of the San Antonio Silver Stars out hustle
Candace Parker of the Los Angeles Sparks. Photo by Billy
Calzada, Express-News/San Antonio Express-News.

During that run Jia Perkins and Shameka Christon both hit 3-pointers to pull San Antonio to 82-74 with about eight minutes left in the game. The Silver Stars defense  was really intense and with about three minutes left in the game, Jia Perkins hit another 3-pointer to tied the game 90-90 and the Silver Stars fans went crazy." At some point we knew that San Antonio was going to make a run,"Toliver said." They are a too good of a team not to. They knew that their season was on the line and they act like it. They responded to adversity and we did the same right back."We didn't fold. we didn't get down on ourselves.We just had to remind ourselves that we still have the lead".

 The Sparks' Nneka Ogwumike hit a jumper, and Candace Parker made two free throws to give them a 94-90 lead and the Sparks never look back and  went on to defeat San Antonio 101-94 to advance to the Western Conference Finals. Candace Parker had 32 points 9 rebounds, Kristi Toliver 23 points, Alana Beard 17 points and DeLisha Milton Jones 10 points. The Silver Stars had 28 points 6 rebounds, Jia Perkins 16 points, Becky Hammon was 5 for 11 from the floor with 15 points and Danielle Adams 12 points and 8 rebound.

 Even though both teams had to play their home game at another site of the first round, it is not fair for these players who have gave their all to make it to the playoffs, then can't play the most important game of their season at another site. The League must work something out with the teams home stadium to assure that this doesn't continue to happen,and most of all it's not fair to the fans,

The Los Angeles Clippers' Media Day

Story By L.T.Willis

Lamar Odom is happy to back in Los Angeles as a member of the
Los Angeles Clippers. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Los Angeles Clippers had their media day at  their training facility in Playa Vista and there was a buzz about the up coming NBA season. Lamar Odom is now part of the Clippers and with him on their roster, and if Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and the rest of the team can stay healthy, they could go very far into the playoffs. The fact that their is a new attitude with the Clippers' front office, they are doing everything they can to get this franchise turn around and make them a championship caliber team. Having Lamar on this teams allows the offense too do so much more now, and if Chris Paul , Chauncey Billups, Caron Butler, DeAndre Jordan and Blake Griffin can stay healthy, the sky is the limit for the Los Angeles Clippers. " It feels go to be back in L.A. where i really wanted to play, yet it feels weird.," Lamar said." 

Los Angeles Clippers Chris Paul. Photo by Eric Wade
T.G.Sports.

Chris Paul knows with the players that are now his new team mates, he knows that they can make a big impact to their team, and even help them make to the NBA Finals. Everybody knows it's not about who you have on your roster, it's about playing the game on the court. No one wants too win a NBA Championship badder than Chris Paul and Blake Griffin. Chris Paul knows that he must stay healthy this season not just for offense, but he is a good defender also. Last year in the playoffs he played hurt , yet he gave his all to do what ever it would take for them to win against San Antonio.

Los Angeles Clippers' Blake Griffin. Photo by Eric Wade
T.G.Sports.

Blake  Griffin  now has some new big bodies to help on defense in the post with 7'0" feet Ryan Hollins from UCLA and 6'10" Ronny Turiaf from Gonzaga and veteran 6'8" Grant Hill will give them much needed depth in the front court, and that should help them match up much better with the Lakers, San Antonio and Oklahoma in the west. Now with all the new parts added to the team it is now up to head coach Vinney Del Negro to make the parts fit, and run like a well oil machine. This should be a great season for Clippers' fans. you can check out more photos from the media day at www.tgsportstv.com, go to photo gallery 2 and scroll down to 2012 Los Angeles Clippers Media Day. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

Los Angeles Clippers' coach Vinney Del Negro knows with the
the talent he has now, his team must go far into the playoffs this
season. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Friday Night Game of The Week Narbonne Beats Mater Dei 18-17

Story by L.T.Willis

Harbor City Narbonne hosting Sana Ana Mater Dei. Photo by Eric Wade
T.G.Sports.

The Narbonne Gauchos have live by the defense,  and hasn't yet so far this season die by the defense. They have beaten Long Beach Poly, Gardena Serra and now Mater Dei. There is no question that Narbonne has probably the best defense playing high school football in California. The offense hasn't hit its full stride yet, but with this defense a few touchdowns is all Narbonne needs to win a game. Narbonne and Mater Dei gave all their fans there money worth for three quarters, just as Haggler and Hearns gave you three rounds of the best boxing , and this game would be no different.

Narbonne's #3 Troy Willliams hits A.J.Richardson on a 65 yard touchdown pass.
Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Mater Dei got on the board first with a 38 yard field goal from Tim Strader to give them a 3-0 lead with 7:44 in the first quarter. After that it was a bend and don't break defensive show as both teams on offense couldn't move the ball. Narbonne only score in the first quarter came on a punt return for 95 yards from Keshawn Bierria and the Gauchos regain the lead 6-3. The second quarter Narbonne  big strike on offense came from play maker A.J.Richardson's 65 yard touchdown pass from Troy Williams to increase their to 12-3.

Mater Dei's # 18 Thomas Duarte catches a 29 yard touchdown
pass from quarterback Ryan McMahon. Photo by Eric Wade
T.G.Sports.

Mater Dei put together a drive of their and quarterback Ryan McMahon threw a 29 yard touchdown pass to Thomas Duarte and now Mater Dei trail Narbonne 12-10, in a game that look like it was going to be who has the ball last will win the game. Early in the third quarter Mater Dei took the lead on a 7 yard touchdown run by Justin Allen with 8:19 and now led 17-12. The biggest question on the night was Tony Gates fumble the ball twice, and would Narbonne still be able to survive that?

Mater Dei's #40 Thomas Daurte scores on a 29 yard touchdown pass from
quarterback Ryan McMahon. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Mater Dei fans were cheering as they sense a victory maybe close if the defense can just hold on. Late in the fourth quarter with only 1:03 left in the game, Troy Williams connected with Johnell Jackson for a 41 touchdown pass and the 2 pt conversion was no good and Narbonne now led 18-17. Narbonne defense came to the call as Mater Dei couldn't get into field goal range and Narbonne defeated Mater Dei 18-17. After the game Coach Rollinson said," that is a very good football team coach Douglas has here at Narbonne and a very very good defense."They made plays and we didn't make enough."

Narbonne's defense comes up big in the 4th quarter. Photo by Eric Wade
T.G.Sports.

"We still need to improve in some areas on our football team and our defense have been making plays for us all season and help us dodge some bullets," Coach Douglas said. Troy Williams on the night was 11 for 17 186 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. Mater Dei 's Ryan McMahon was 11 of 19 for 145 yards and 1 touchdown. For more photos on this game you can to www.tgsportstv.com click on the Prep/JC Gallery and scroll down to Mater Dei @ Narbonne. All Photo are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images. For more photos of this game go to www.tgsportstv.com ,click on the Prep/JC and scroll down to Mater Dei @ Narbonne.

Kristi Toliver Wins the 2012 Most Improve Player of The Year Award

Story by L.T.Willis

The Sparks' Kristi Toliver won the 2012 WNBA Most
Improve Player Of The Year Award. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Watching Kristi Toliver from last season i saw something in her as i told several of my fellow media outlets personnel she is going to be a star in the WNBA. After her performance last night and her winning the 2012 WNBA Most Improve Player Of The Year Award wasn't a surprise to me. First of all she is fearless on the court, very competitive, and the most important thing i like about her she is a very humble person even when she is hard on herself, those are the traits for a player to have to rise above the rest. During the season she average about 17 points a game and  about 4.9 assist. During a stretch of the season she was scoring at least 20 plus points a night and help carried the Sparks many times when Candace Parker one of the superstars in the league and other team mates were struggling. This season her growth as a player have really shown when even she was struggling on offense, she continue to scrap, fight and defend no matter what happens during a game. Off the court Kristi Toliver is one of nicest person you would ever want to meet.

Sparks' #20 Kristi Toliver. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Sparks' Kristi " Popcorn" Toliver enjoying
a snack during media day. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Her team mates have embrace her with love and have been very supportive of her after losing her grandmother last season. Most people don't realize in sports sometimes it's takes a few years for a players to catch on and really feel comfortable in the scheme of things, and what type of offense she is being a part of. First year Sparks' head coach Carol Ross and her coaching staff have done a wonderful job of helping her to develop as a guard in the WNBA. With Alana Beard having a solid season at the point guard, this has allow Kristi more freedom to shoot the ball and don't have too carry the burden of bringing the ball up the court all the time and to be more aggressive on offense. With Alana Beard and the growth of Kristi Toliver in the same back court, the Sparks can make it  all the way to The WNBA Finals.

Sparks' #20 Kristi Toliver has been embrace by her
team mates. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Los Angeles Sparks have shown that they believe in Kristi Toliver, and is the main reason why this team is where they are now in the WNBA Semi Finals Playoffs and hosting the first round as the #2 seed in the Western Conference. Kristi Toliver in her first ever WNBA Semi Finals Playoffs scored 29 points against the San Antonio Silver Stars led the Sparks to a 93-86 victory in the first round of a three game series. After this victory and being giving the 2012 WNBA Most Improve Player of The Year Award, Kristi Toliver and her team mates have plenty too smile about. Kristi Toliver will become a superstar in this league because she has all the right tools to work with, it is just a matter of time. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

Great Coaching Leads To Sparks' Victory Over San Antonio 96-83

Story by L.T.Willis

2012 WNBA Western Conference Semi- Finals Game 1 The Los Angeles Sparks
and The San Antonio Silver Stars. Photo by Eric Wade/ T.G.Sports.

Game 1 of the WNBA Western Conference Semi- Finals between the Los Angeles Sparks ( 24-10)  and the San Antonio Silver Stars (23-11) came down to coaching as the Sparks defeated San Antonio 93-86 at The Galen Center. The biggest concern for the Sparks would be if they came out the gate slow against the Silver Stars. Playing at the Galen Center for their first playoff game would it effect the Sparks' shooting from the perimeter. The game felt like a prize fight both teams trying to establish a aggressive style of offense in the first quarter. The Sparks defense allow too many easy layups, and early turnovers kept San Antonio close and allow them to have a 25-24 lead at the end of the fourth quarter.

San Antonio's #7 Jia Perkins drives on Los Angeles Sparks' #20 Kristi Toliver.
Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

In the second quarter Danielle Adams was making her presence felt in the game as she begin to get some easy baskets and rebounds due to the fact that several Sparks' players were not boxing out, and allow here to have several put backs. Kristi Toliver was making her presence felt as she connected from the perimeter on several shots ,yet the Sparks just couldn't pull away from the Silver Stars. It seems like both teams were thinking basketball and not playing due to some terrible ball movement on both sides, which led to turnovers for both teams, and the main reason why the Sparks trailed San Antonio at the end of the half 44-40.

Los Angeles Sparks' #20 Kristi Toliver shoots a jump
shot over San Antonio's #23 Danielle Adams. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The third quarter San Antonio began to pull away because of the Sparks not taking care of the ball and was allowing San Antonio too out rebound them and coach the Sparks head coach seen enough. She pulled Candace Parker out of the game at the 7:39 mark for Jantel Lavender, even though the Sparks were trailing 51-43. Candace Parker wasn't the only one that wasn't boxing out, yet Coach Ross wasn't please with her effort being the leader of this team. Coach Ross made another substitution replacing DeLisha Milton-Jones with Jenna O'Hea and Candace Parker return to the game trailing San Antonio by 10 points 60-50 with 3:44 left in the third.

Jenna O'Hea came in the game and gave them a player who is scrappy and hustles all the time along with Kristi Toliver, Candace Parker,Nneka Ogwumike and Alana Beard begin to turn the game around for them with some great defense, Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike began to got to work on offense. Both players scored with strong moves to the basket and jump shots, along with some clutch free throw shooting by Kristi Toliver with about 19 seconds left in the third trailed San Antonio 67-65.

Los Angeles Sparks' #6 Jenna O'Hea hustle plays help the Sparks
get back into the game. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports. 

Alana Beard in the fourth quarter with 9:43 tied the game 67-67 and the Sparks fans went crazy as the Sparks clamped down on San Antonio to tied the game. The Silver Stars' Becky Hammon made a jump shot and regain the lead for her team 69-67. Alana Beard again who was having a amazing game scored her 16 point of the game to tie it back up 69-69. Jenna  O'Hea scored a layup, Kristi Toliver hit a 3 pointer, and Candace Parker hit a turn around jump shot, and now the Sparks now led 76-69.

San Antonio wasn't just going to lay down as Daniella Adams scored on a layup, Sophia Young scored on a lay up, Becky Hammon scored on layup and a big 3 point shot by Shemeka Christon, San Antonio tied the game 80-80, and the Sparks fans were on the edge of the their seat. Kristi Toliver would not let the Sparks lose this game hit a 3 point shot that sent the crowd into a frenzy now led 83-80.The Sparks went on to defeat San Antonio 93-86 to take 1-0 lead in one of the WNBA Western Conference Semi Finals.

Los Angeles Sparks' #3 Candace Parker and San Antonio's Silver Stars' #33 Sophia
Young. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

 After the game i ask Kristi Toliver what did she learn from this game. " We have to stop coming out flat in the beginning of games and be more focus and not worry about match ups,and do a better job of taking care of the ball." The second half of the game we decide just to come out and  play basketball."Kristi Toliver finish the game with 29 points, Candace Parker 25 points 9 rebounds, Alana Beard had 18 points and Nneka Ogwumike 12 points and 8 rebounds. San Antonio's Becky Hammon had 19 points, Danielle Adams 17 points and Danielle Robinson 16 points.

Los Angeles Sparks' head coach Carol Ross is all smiles after
their Game 1 Western Conference Semi Finals Game 1 victory
over the San Antonio Silver Stars 93-86. Photo by Eric Wade/
T.G.Sports.

The Sparks must credit coach Ross for sitting Candace Parker out for a stretch in the third quarter, yet sticking with the group of players that got them back in the game, and stuck with them to win the game. That sends a message to the other players that as a coach i must trust and be able to depend on you when i need you to go in the game. Great coaching and defense always wins games. For more photos of this game go to www.tgsportstv.com, click on photo gallery 2 and scroll down to San Antonio @ L.A.Sparks. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

Friday Night Game of The Week Crenshaw Beats Oak Christian13-2

Story by L.T.Willis

Crenshaw's defense was huge in the 13-2 victory over Oak Christian.
Photo by Robert Helfman.

The City section is making noise in non league games on Friday night as Narbonne defeated Serra 22-9, and now Crenshaw knocks off Oak Christian 13-2 behind great defense for the Cougars. Robert Garrett and his coaching staff are doing a remarkable job with about 23 players on his roster, are a force too be recon with. The one thing you can't teach players is heart, and this year Crenshaw team are a gutsy group of young men playing football. With wins over Norco, Edison and now Oak Christian the door is wide open for the Cougars.  With players going both ways you know Crenshaw's players have to be in great condition.

Crenshaw had Oak Christian's quarterback # 13 Brandon Hawkins scrambling
for his life all night. Photo by Robert Helfman.

Oak Christian could never get any thing going on offense as Crenshaw's defensive line was pressuring Oak Christian's quarterback Brandon Hawkins, and force him to throw five interceptions in the game. The secondary for Crenshaw were awesome as they had great coverage all night and never gave up in big plays during the game . Crenshaw got on the board first in the third quarter as Jacob Knight score on a eighteen yard touchdown run to give  Crenshaw a 6-0 lead.

Crenshaw's #25 Jacob Knight scores on a 18 yard touchdown run. Photo by
Robert Helfman.

The only points for Oak Christian came the third quarter on safety for two points and now trail 6-2 against a Crenshaw team that was on a mission, just win one game at a time. Crenshaw scored again in the fourth quarter  when Devonte Singleton had a touchdown run of twenty six yards, and with the extra point by place kicker Anthony Rodriguez  push Crenshaw lead to 13-2. Oak Christian had no answer  for Crenshaw's defense, and with the victory Crenshaw's record now improves to 4-1, and Oak Christian's record is 4-1 also.

Crenshaw's Devonte Singleton scores on a 26 yard touchdown run. Photo
by Robert Helfman.

If Crenshaw continues to play at the level they are playing, and no injuries, there is a good chance they could  make it to back to the city finals against a team that everyone thinks will be there also Narbonne, who is playing great football also for the city section. One thing is for sure to win a city championship and get a berth in  a state bowl game you have to win one game at a time, and everything else will take care of itself. You can check out more photos of this game at www.tgsportstv.com, click on on the high school gallery icon, and scroll down to Crenshaw @ Oak Christian. All photos for this article and the Crenshaw/Oak Christian Gallery was by Robert Helfman.

Narbonne's Defense Helps Beats Serra 22-9

Story by L.T.Willis

Narbonne's #2 Marquis Lomax intercepted Serra's
quarterback Jalen Green twice on the night.
Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Two teams with good defenses tangle on Friday night in Gardena and something had too give.. Narbonne force Serra into four turnovers and defeated Serra 22-9 in a game everyone was waiting for. There was some big time hitting during the game along with some chatting, but that was no surprise. Both teams felt that this was a game too really measure each other and get a feel for what they needed too really work on. Narbonne scored first when Troy Williams found Jon'tae Roberson for a nineteen yard touchdown pass and Narbonne led 6-0.

Serra's #6 Darrell Furey catches a 24yard
touchdown pass from Jalen Green.
Photo by Eric Wade/T.G. Sports.

Serra responded with a score of their own  in the second quarter when Jalen Green hit Darrell Furey on a twenty four yard touchdown pass and  Serra now led 7-6. Narbonne's defense gave up the only touchdown all season on the night began to tighten up their defense and Serra receivers just didn't find any room to make plays. Narbonne regain the lead on a four yard run by Tony Gates and now led 13-7.

Narbonne's #5 Tony Gates scored on a 4 yard touchdown
run. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

With seconds left in the first half Serra was on a good drive, but was halted when Narbonne's Marquis Lomax picked of Jalen Green on their twenty seven yard line to close out the half. Serra was proving they could move the ball on offense, but whenever they were on a good drive, they turn the ball over. In the third quarter Serra defense came up big as Narbonne was driving for another score, force Narbonne to kick a field goal to hold Narbonne too just three points.

Serra's defense held Narbonne to just three points in the third quarter. Photo
by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Narbonne defense came up big again as Serra's wide out broke outside and Jalen Green threw the ball to the inside was pick off by Keishawn Bierra, but Serra defense force Narbonne to punt. The turnover that sealed the victory for the Gauchos was when Serra's  running back broke free on a sweep down  the left side, Narbonne's linebacker Kwentin Polk came up with a big hit that force  the ball up into the air and landed in Marquis Lomax's  hand, scored from fifty four yards out, and with the extra point was good by place kicker Ceasar Moniteil, Narbonne now led 22-7 late into the fourth quarter.

Narbonne's #1 Keishawn Bierra picks off Serra's
quarterback Jalen Rose. Photo by Eric Wade
T.G.Sports.

Despite all the turnovers Serra still had a chance to get back into the game drove down to Narbonne's goal line, but fumble the ball and Narbonne recovered the fumble inside the one yard line. On the next play Troy Williams gave up a safety and Serra now trailed 22-9. Serra had use all of their four downs as Narbonne's defense held, and Narbonne defeated Serra 22-9. You can check out more photos from this game by going to www.tgsportstv.com, click on the high school gallery and scroll down to Narbonne @ Serra. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

The Sparks Beats Minnesota 92-76 For The Final Home Game Of The Season

Story by L.T. Willis

The Los Angeles Sparks defeated The Minnesota Lynx 92-76 for the
final home game of the season. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Los Angeles Sparks (24-10) defeated The Minnesota Lynx (26-6) 92-76 behind the leadership of Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike, who both scored 22 points and double digits in rebounding. The Sparks had a 14 point lead at the end of the first quarter behind the sharp shooting of Nneka Ogwumike 5 for 6 from the floor with 10 points and Candace Parker 4 for 6 from the floor with 10 points also. Minnesota's Maya Moore and Seimone Augustine both shot 1 for 4 from the floor and had 2 points , and  Candice Wiggins  was 0 for 4 from the floor.

The Sparks' #30 Nneka Ogwumike had 22 points
and 11 rebounds against Minnesota. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

As poor as Minnesota was shooting they were only down by 8 points at the half trailing 44-36, while Maya Moore shot 3 for 9 from the floor,Seimone Augustine 2 for 9 from the floor and Lindsay Whalen one of the Lynx weapons was ill, the Lynx were trying to hang in there. Some folks were saying that both teams already secure their spots in the playoffs and they were going to take easy, that wasn't the case. The Sparks' defense have been their calling card all season long was really defending Maya Moore and the rest of the Lynx players from the perimeter.

The Sparks' #20 Kristi Toliver scored 10
points and had 8 assist against the
Minnesota Lynx. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Sparks in the third quarter were up as much as 21 points and Minnesota just couldn't gain any ground on the Sparks. At the end of the third quarter Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike both had 20 points, Alana Beard had 11 points and Kristi Toliver 10 points and 8 assist. Minnesota's Maya Moore had 13 points while Devereaux Peters and Monica Wright both had 10 points, but still trailed The Sparks 74-55 at the end of the third quarter.

The Sparks' head coach Carol Ross and her
coaching staff  led the Sparks to one of their
franchise best records of 24-10. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Sparks went on to defeat Minnesota 92-76. Leading scores for the Sparks was Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike both had 22 points and 11 rebounds and for Minnesota Monica Wright 19 points, Devereaux Peter 17 points and Maya Moore 13 points. For more photos from this game go to www.tgsportstv.com, click on photo gallery 2 and scroll down to Minnesota @ L.A. Sparks. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

UCLA Beats Houston 37-6 At The Rose Bowl.

Story by L.T.Willis

UCLA Bruins' #22 Sheldon Price had three interceptions against the
Houston Cougars. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The UCLA Bruins (3-0) had no problems beaten the Houston Cougars (0-3) 37-6 at The Rose Bowl in Pasadena. The Bruins defense had their way with Houston's offense as they force them into six turnovers. The Bruins got on the score board first after a twenty three yard fumble recovery by Eric Kendricks with 14:44 in the first quarter. UCLA's offense scored it's first touchdown of the game when Brett Hundley hit Datone Jones on a seven yard touchdown pass to make the score 14-0. The only score for the Bruins in the second quarter came when Ka'imi Fairbairn kicked a thirty five yard field goal to push UCLA lead up to 17-0.

UCLA Bruins' #97 Datone Jones scores on a seven yard touchdown pass
from Brett Hundley. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

With Houston unable to generate any type of offense, UCLA wasn't done with scoring as Jordan Jones caught a twelve yard touch down pass from Brett Hundley to make the score 24-0 in the third quarter. UCLA's place kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn kicked two more field goals from thirty three yards and twenty three yards and at the end of the third quarter UCLA led 30-0. One thing the Bruins have done early this season is let quarterbacks run for big gains and touchdown runs. With 4:54 in the fourth quarter Houston's quarterback David Piland ran for a eighty six yard touchdown run to make the score 30-6 UCLA.

UCLA Bruins' quarterback #17 Brett Hundley being chase by two Houston
Cougars defenders. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Bruins final touchdown came with 3:10 left in the game when Marfro Stevens scored on a fourteen yard touchdown run and UCLA went on to defeat Houston 37-6. UCLA's Brett Hundley finish the night 27/42 for 320 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions.The Bruins work horse running back Jonathan Franklin had 110 yards on 25 carries. Houston's quarterback David Piland finish the night 28/60 249 yards and with 5 interceptions. The UCLA Bruins had 567 total yards on offense and force 6 six turnovers. For more photos from this game go to www.tgsportstv.com, click on photo gallery 2 and click on Houston @ UCLA. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

Big Plays For UCLA Helps Defeats Nebraska 36-30

Story by L.T.Willis

UCLA defeated Nebraska 36-30 to give their fans something
too cheer about. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The UCLA Bruins hosted The Nebraska Corn Huskers on a beautiful night at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, and gave their fans  plenty too cheer about as UCLA defeated Nebraska 36-0 under new head coach Jim Mora. The Bruins got on the board first when  Brett Hundley connected with Joseph  Fauria on twenty seven yard touchdown pass to give them a 7-0 lead. Nebraska responded when running back Ameer Abdullah scored from six yard out to tie the score 7-7. The Bruin's defense had Nebraska pinned back on their own eight yard line, when Nebraska's quarterback Taylor Martinez on a keeper ran for ninety two yards for a touchdown to give the Cornhuskers a 14-7 lead.

Nebraska's quarterback #3 Taylor Martinez runs 92 yards
for a touchdown against UCLA. Photo by Eric Wade/
T.G.Sports.

The Bruins kicked a thirty five yard field goal made by Ka'imi Fairbairn with 12:31 in the second quarter to trail Nebraska 14-10. The Bruins regain the lead when Hundley threw a four yard touchdown pass to Joseph Fauria, and now the Bruins led 17-14. This game was turning into a shoot out as Nebraska answer back to regain the lead with a seventeen yard run from running back Ameer Abdullah and now led 21-17. Moments later the Bruins' quarterback Brett Hundley threw a forty nine yard touchdown pass to Steven Manfro and UCLA was back in front 24-21. Before the half ended Nebraska's Brett Maher kicked a fifty four yard field goal end the half and tied the game 24-24.

UCLA's #17 Brett Hundley throws a 49 yard touchdown pass to tail back Steven
Manfro. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The UCLA Bruins and The Nebraska Cornhuskers were giving their fans their money worth as the Rose Bowl crowd seem mostly being in red, had the stadium rocking as the third quarter began. With 11:50 in the third quarter the Bruins scored first as Ka'imi Fairbairn kicked a twenty two yard field goal to break the tie and give UCLA a 27-24 lead. Nebraska answer back with 7:45 in the third quarter when Brett Maher kicked a forty three yard field goal and tied the game again 27-27 to end the third quarter. In the fourth quarter The Bruins' defense came up big  when defensive end Datone Jones sacked Nebraska's quarterback Taylor Martinez in their end zone for a safety for two points with 8:44 on the clock to give UCLA a 29-27 lead.

UCLA's defensive end # 56 Datone Jones sacks
Nebraska's quarterback # 3 Taylor Martinez for
a safety. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The Bruins fans were going crazy as this game may be coming down to who will have the ball last and score may win the game. UCLA offense struck again with 2:13 left in the fourth quarter as tail back Johnathan Franklin scored on a nine yard pass from Hundley to increase UCLA lead to 36-27. The Bruins defense came up big again by holding Nebraska to only a field goal by Brett Maher from fourty yards out with only 1:38 left in the game trailed UCLA 36-30. UCLA went on to defeat Nebraska 36-30 and let the Bruins fans know that football is back at UCLA.

UCLA's #23 Johnathan Franklin scores on a 9 yard
touchdown pass from Brett Hundley to seal
the game for the Bruins. Photo by
Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

The most impressive thing about the game was the poise of UCLA's freshman quarterback Brett Hundley who had  a great game passing  was 21 for 33 for 305 yards and 4 touchdowns.  Senior receiver Joseph  Fauria had four catches for 42 yards and 2 touchdowns. Nebraska's junior quarterback Taylor Martinez was 17 for 31 with 179 and no touchdowns. Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah carried the ball 16 times for 123 yards and 2 touchdowns. For more photos of this game go www.tgsportstv.com, click on photo gallery and scroll down to Nebraska @ UCLA. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.

Narbonne Beats Long Beach Poly 56-0

Story by L.T.Willis

Narbonne's #5 Tony Gates scores on a 38 yard  touchdown run to give the
Gauchos a 7-0 lead. Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

 Harbor City Narbonne sent a message to the city and southern sections schools that they are a really good football team by beating Long Beach Poly 56-0. What was most impressive is not the scoring ,but the defense didn't allow them a first down till late in the second quarter. Narbonne's Tony Gates started the scoring frenzy with a thirty eight yard touchdown run to give the Gauchos a 7-0 lead. Narbonne's defense pinned Long Beach Poly offense back deep into their own side of the field and was force to punt.

Narbonne's #11 A.J.Richardson scores on a 20
yard touchdown pass from Troy Williams.

Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Great field position set up the next score for the Gauchos as Troy Williams connected with A.J. Richardson for a twenty yard touchdown and now the Gaucho lead 14-0. The Jackrabbits' offense just couldn't get any type of passing or running game going during the game and was force to punt again to the Gauchos.This may be the best defensive and offensive team Narbonne has ever had playing tonight.The Jackrabbits' quarterback Eban Jackson was being pressure, and really couldn't step into his throwing motions as his passes were very high.

Narbonne's defense was just too much for Long Beach Poly.
Photo by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

With under a minute left in the first quarter Troy Williams scored on a sixteen yard touchdown run to push the Gauchos lead to 21-0 at the end of the first quarter. On the next series for the Jackrabbits in the second quarter, their offense went three and out and the Gauchos had great field position again. Troy Williams was at it again as he ran for another touchdown from 12 yards out to make the score 28-0.

Narbonne's #3 Troy Williams having a great night
against Long Beach Poly. Photo by Eric Wade/
T.G.Sports.

Narbonne's offense was scoring at will as Kwentin Polk scored on a twenty five yard touchdown pass from Troy Williams and push the score up to 35-0. The next series for the Jackrabbits was just the same as the Gauchos force their offense to go three and out, and moments later under a minute in the second quarter, The Gauchos scored on a touchdown run by Johnell Jackson and Narbonne led Long Beach Poly 42-0 at the half.

Long Beach Poly's quarterback #2 Eban Jackson spent most
of the game being chase down by Narbonne's defense. Photo
by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports.

Narbonne went on to score two more time in the third quarter when Johnell Jackson scored on twenty yard touchdown pass made it 49-0, and Troy Williams scored the last touchdown from ten yards out and now the score was 56-0. Narbonne defeated Long Beach Poly 56-0 as Troy Williams had a great night 11/16 passing and one touchdown, and rush for 39 yards and three touchdowns. Narbonne's Johnell Jackson rush for seventy yards and two touchdowns. All photos are by Eric Wade/T.G.Sports and EW Gems Images.