Stanley Cup Playoffs 2015: Conference Semifinals

For the first time in eons, the Flames are back in the conference semifinals. What a great turnaround at the team after missing the playoffs the past few years. With a resurgent Bob Hartley coaching and a promising rookie by the name of Johnny 'Hockey' Gaudreau, they are giving fans in Calgary something to cheer about. But it will be tough as the Ducks await them starting tonight.

Also, for the third straight year, the Wild and Blackhawks will meet in the playoffs, as does the Habs and Lightning, who will meet for the second consecutive playoffs.

Conference semifinals
(Best of seven)
WEST
(1P) Ducks v (3P) Flames
Game 1 tonight
Game 2 Sunday
Game 3 Tuesday
Game 4 5/8
Game 5 5/10*
Game 6 5/12*
Game 7 5/14*

(1C) Blackhawks v (1W) Wild
Game 1 Friday
Game 2 Sunday
Game 3 Tuesday
Game 4 5/7
Game 5 5/9*
Game 6 5/11*
Game 7 5/13*

EAST
(1A) Canadiens v (2A) Lightning
Game 1 Friday
Game 2 Sunday
Game 3 Wednesday
Game 4 5/7
Game 5 5/9*
Game 6 5/12*
Game 7 5/14*

(1M) Rangers v (2M) Capitals
Game 1 tonight
Game 2 Saturday
Game 3 Monday
Game 4 Wednesday
Game 5 5/8*
Game 6 5/10*
Game 7 5/13*
*-if necessary.

In the US it is on the NBC family, while in Canada on the CBC/Rogers platform. Also, the IIHF World Championship for men starts tomorrow, with host nation Czech Republic and USA Hockey in action among the five games on the schedule. USA Hockey's game is live at 9am Central Friday morning on NBCSN.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Aminata Savadogo "Love Injected"

And the 40 For 40 for Vienna 2015 continues. Up next is my review of Aminata Savadogo (pictured) with "Love Injected" (Latvia).

"Love Injected" is a semi-ballad that is almost a pop song. However her voice and flow of this song are just borderline mainstream to me. As a result, I really don't think this will even make it to the grand final. As much as I liked some of the Latvian entries of the past few years, I don't think this one will do it. She will perform on May 21 in the second semifinal.

Up next: Vaidas Baumila and Monika Linkyte "This Time"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Il Volo "Grande Amore"

The road to the 60th ESC in Vienna in a few weeks continues. Up next, a review of the trio Il Volo (pictured) with "Grande Amore" (Italy).

"Grande Amore" happens to be one of the best ballads of this year's ESC, with a good buildup and sound. I like this song. However, this is a grand final-only song on May 23, as this is the only time during this year's event where they will perform. As much as this is a good song, I think they will finish within the bottom seven in voting. We will see on that night. Until then, good luck.

Up next: Aminata Savadogo "Love Injected"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Nadav Guedj "Golden Boy"

The 40 for 40 for Vienna 2015 continues. Up next is a review of Nadav Guedj (pictured) with "Golden Boy" (Israel).

"Golden Boy" is not a song about the boxer and promoter Oscar de la Hoya, who won Olympic gold in 1992. This is a song about something else. However, with its beats and flow, and it's mainstream vibe, I'm thinking: what the fuck is this? Just another pretty boy for Europeans to vote for...oh wait, they will be smart by not voting for him for a reason! On the other hand, Israel has sent good, reasonable songs over the years, but this is one of their worst. He will perform in the second semifinal on May 21, but will have one of the lowest point totals in semifinal history. Maybe two points? We'll see.

Up next: Il Volo "Grande Amore"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Molly Sterling "Playing With Numbers"

More reviews for Vienna 2015, as it is in a few weeks away. Up next is my review of Molly Sterling (pictured) with "Playing with Numbers" (Ireland).

"Playing with Numbers" is a beautiful ballad which free flows and carries on nicely. A very respectable ballad. I liked everything from Ireland the last two ESC's, and say what you want, this is better than what the country had in 2011 and 2012. She will perform in the second semifinal on May 21 and will qualify for the grand final two nights later. Good luck Molly.

Up next: Nadav Guedj "Golden Boy"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Maria Olafsdottir "Unbroken"

The road to Vienna is a few weeks away! Up next is my review of the teen Maria Olafsdottir (pictured), with Unbroken (Iceland).

Iceland has had some good stuff the past few years, but this is not one of them. It is very reasonable, despite the guitar flow. Her voice is too mainstream, but could appeal to the those who are fans of crappy mainstream music. In other words, I don't think she will perform on grand final Saturday. However, she will perform in the second semifinal on May 21.

Up next: Molly Sterling "Playing With Numbers"

Friday Jukebox 4.24.15

I've wanted to upload this for a while, but here it is. Great alternative rock by Wild Nothing, with "Ride" from the 2013 EP Empty Estate. 

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Boggie "Wars for Nothing"

The 40 For 40 for Vienna 2015 continues. Up next is a review of Csemer Boglarska (pictured)--or Boggie--with "Wars for Nothing" (Hungary).

I feel that "Wars for Nothing" is very touching to most people, but it is yet another among the ballads at Vienna this year. Guitar based, soft and flowing, this is an okay song, with good, reasonable vocals. However this song might come close in the voting, as she performs in the first semifinal on May 19. Will be very close in my opinion, but might not make it in. We'll see. And I don't want to compare, but Hungary has had some good stuff of the past three years in this event.

Up next: Maria Olafsdottir "Unbroken"

ONE Valor of Champions: Welterweight World Championship

ONE returns on Friday night with Valor of Champions, headlined by a welterweight championship fight as Ben 'Funky' Askren will defend his welterweight title against Luis Santos.

For more visit the ONE website, Facebook or twitter.

INVICTA 12: Strawweight Championship Fight

INVICTA returns on Friday night with another title fight, as Katja Kankaanpaa will defend her strawweight title against Livia Renata Souza in INVICTA 12.

For more visit the INVICTA website.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Maria Elena Kyriakou "One Last Breath"

Now back to the semifinalists review of Vienna 2015. Up next: Maria Elena Kyriakou (pictured) with "One Last Breath" (Greece).

"One Last Breath" is yet another one of the countless number of ballads in this year's field in Vienna. Very good ballad, with minimal atmosphere. As much as I loved the ESC entries from Greece the last couple of years (Koza Mostra "Alcohol is Free" in 2013, and Freaky Fortune "Rise Up" in 2014), this is an okay ballad. Still better than 2012. As far as the grand final, she will be borderline on making it there. She might not even make it. She will perform in the first semifinal on May 19.

Up next: Boglarka 'Boggie' Csumer "Wars for Nothing"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Elecro Velvet "Still in Love With You"

With so many entries to preview before the first semifinal on 19 May, here is another grand final-only song: Electro Velvet (pictured) with "Still in Love With You" (Great Britain).

Electro Velvet is a duo in their first ESC together, and this one is a interesting, yet great piece, featuring a bouncy house flow with violins. It's a square dance for the modern day world. I like it, but is it a contender to win. It sure is, but I think since these two will perform on 23 May in the grand final, I think they'll get three points (8th place) from me. That's my opinion. Something decent and worth listening to from the UK.

Up next: Maria Elena Kyriakou "One Last Breath"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Ann Sophie Durmeyer "Black Smoke"

The reviews keep on coming as Vienna 2015 is a month away! Up next is a review of Ann Sophie Durmeyer (pictured)'s song "Black Smoke" (Germany).

Note: the next two reviews will perform on grand final Saturday including this one. No doubt about it, I think this song has it all. Flow, voice, beat, and style. Her vocals just about similar to 2010 ESC champion Lena Meyer Landrut, who is also from Germany. Enough reasoning to back this up. Still, this is a contender to win. We will see on May 23.

Up next: Electro Velvet "Still in Love With You"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Nina Sublatti "Warrior"

This year at Vienna 2015, it's all about the ballads. Except a few, and this is one of them. Meet Nina Sublatti (pictured), who is in Vienna this year performing "Warrior" (Georgia).

"Warrior" is sure to be a contender. Nice beat, nice aura and atmosphere coupling with her vocal flow. Only thing I hate about this is that there is some dubstep, which I really hate a lot. I am an EDM fan nonetheless. A great choice to represent the Republic of Georgia in Vienna. She will perform in the first semifinal on May 19, and will no doubt crush the field in scoring. On grand final Saturday, she could be a contender to win it all. I'm feeling this, as this could be a better neck-and-neck finish as opposed to last year. We'll see.

Up next: Ann Sophie Durmeyer "Black Smoke"

Friday Jukebox 4.18.15: Percy Sledge

In case you heard by now, Percy Sledge passed away at the age of 73. He is perhaps best known for one of the biggest hits of the 1960s, "When a Man Loves a Woman," from 1966.

NBA Playoffs 2015: Conference Quarterfinals

There's another league with playoffs starting this week.

With FIBA qualifiers for Rio in the horizon in the months to come, there's the NBA playoffs. The 16 team tournament begins Saturday with intriguing stories, including the Pelicans and Bucks back in the playoffs, and the Heat missing the playoffs. The entire Southwest division is in the playoffs. That is all you need to know for this year's postseason.

Conference quarterfinals
(Best of seven)
WEST
(1) Warriors v (8) Pelicans
Game 1 Saturday
Game 2 Monday
Game 3 Thursday
Game 4 4/25
Game 5 4/28*
Game 6 5/1*
Game 7 5/3*

(4) Blazers v (5) Grizzlies
Game 1 Sunday
Game 2 Wednesday
Game 3 4/25
Game 4 4/27
Game 5 4/29*
Game 6 5/1*
Game 7 5/3*

(3) Clippers v (6) Spurs
Game 1 Sunday
Game 2 Wednesday
Game 3 Friday
Game 4 4/26
Game 5 4/28*
Game 6 4/30*
Game 7 5/2*

(2) Rockets v (7) Mavericks
Game 1 Saturday
Game 2 Tuesday
Game 3 Friday
Game 4 4/26
Game 5 4/28*
Game 6 4/30*
Game 7 5/2*

EAST
Conference quarterfinals
(1) Hawks v (8) Nets
Game 1 Sunday
Game 2 Wednesday
Game 3 4/25
Game 4 4/27
Game 5 4/29*
Game 6 5/1*
Game 7 5/3*

(4) Raptors v (5) Wizards
Game 1 Saturday
Game 2 Tuesday
Game 3 Friday
Game 4 4/26
Game 5 4/29*
Game 6 5/1*
Game 7 5/3*

(3) Bulls v (6) Bucks
Game 1 Saturday
Game 2 Monday
Game 3 Thursday
Game 4 4/25
Game 5 4/27*
Game 6 4/30*
Game 7 5/2*

(2) Cavaliers v (7) Celtics
Game 1 Sunday
Game 2 Tuesday
Game 3 Thursday
Game 4 4/26
Game 5 4/28*
Game 6 4/30*
Game 7 5/2*
*-if necessary.

In the US, the games are on TNT, NBATV, ESPN and (ESPN on) ABC, and on local stations and RSN's. It's that time of the year.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Lisa Angell "N'oubliez Pas"

The '40 For 40' reviews for Vienna 2015 continues, with the second--yes folks, reviewed Australia (no joke here) and bypassed Austria--grand final only entry of Lisa Angell "N'oubliez Pas" (France).

Here we have another one of the full line of ballads in this year's EUROVISION Song Contest. This reminds me of some of the ballads of the past, including Valentina Monetta's "Forse" from last year. Just that same flow and element. Remember, she will be grand final only on May 23. My prediction is that with a tough group of ballads, that she will finish third from last (see later).

Up next: Nina Sublatti "Warrior"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Pertti Kurikan Nimipaivat "Aina Mun Pitaa"

The reviews for the 40 entries for Vienna 2015 continues in my '40 For 40' series. Up next is my review of Pertti Kurikan Nimipaivat, or PKN (pictured), with "Aina Mun Pitaa" (Finland).

"Aina Mun Pitaa" has to be the shortest ESC song I've ever heard, and is worth it. Awesome hard rock piece. Everybody knows when it comes to Finland, they love their metal and rock. Remember, Lordi won in 2006, and Terasbetoni finished top five (or ten?) in 2008. Alternative rock group Softengine made the grand final last year in Copenhagen. This will win it all. You heard it first. See them in their first semifinal performance on May 19, and for those who thumb down this one, go fuck yourself. Enjoy more awesomeness from a country which has produced some of the best in ESC within the last decade (a major exception: 2013, which was garbage and should've never made it), if you want to throw in Waldo's People and Pernilla Karlsson among others. We'll see.

Up next: Lisa Angell "N'oubliez Pas"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Stig Rasta & Elina Born "Goodbye to Yesterday"

The Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40 continues. Next is a review of another duo--Stig Rasta and Elina Born (pictured)--with "Goodbye to Yesterday" (Estonia).

"Goodbye to Yesterday" is a great, complex alternative song. Love the flow of it. Estonia has had some good songs these last few years (including last year with Tanja Mihhailova "Amazing"), and this one continues that tradition of never letting the fan down. This one will no doubt be a finals contender this year. Will make grand final. See these two perform on May 19 in the first semifinal. Good luck.

Up next: Pertti Kurikan Nimipaivat "Aina Mun Pitaa"

150 Years Ago...

Ford's Theater, Washington, 14 April 1865

Five days after the 'handshake to end it all.' 

Stanley Cup Playoffs Quarterfinals 2015: More Canadian Than Ever!?

The 'Hamburglar' Andrew Hammond helped provided action within the last few weeks of the NHL regular season. After a year away from the postseason, the Sens are back in the tournament. What a run.

The Sens are one of five Canadian teams in the playoffs this year that is missing last year's Cup champions Los Angeles Kings. The Hurricanes were the last to miss the playoffs after winning the Cup the previous year, back in 2007.

(best of seven)
WEST
Quarterfinals
(P1) Ducks v (W2) Jets
Game 1: Thursday
Game 2: Saturday
Game 3: Monday
Game 4: 4/22
Game 5: 4/24*
Game 6: 4/26*
Game 7: 4/28*

(P2) Canucks v (P3) Flames
Game 1: Wednesday
Game 2: Friday
Game 3: Sunday
Game 4: 4/21
Game 5: 4/23*
Game 6: 4/25*
Game 7: 4/27*

(C1) Blues v (W1) Wild
Game 1: Thursday
Game 2: Saturday
Game 3: Monday
Game 4: 4/22
Game 5: 4/24*
Game 6: 4/26*
Game 7: 4/29*

(C2) Predators v (C3) Blackhawks
Game 1: Wednesday
Game 2: Friday
Game 3: Sunday
Game 4: 4/21
Game 5: 4/23*
Game 6: 4/25*
Game 7: 4/27*

EAST
Quarterfinals
(A1) Canadiens v (W1) Senators
Game 1: Wednesday
Game 2: Friday
Game 3: Sunday
Game 4: 4/22
Game 5: 4/24*
Game 6: 4/26*
Game 7: 4/28*

(A2) Lightning v (A3) Red Wings
Game 1: Thursday
Game 2: Saturday
Game 3: 4/21
Game 4: 4/23
Game 5: 4/25*
Game 6: 4/27*
Game 7: 4/29*

(M1) Rangers v (W2) Penguins
Game 1: Thursday
Game 2: Saturday
Game 3: Monday
Game 4: 4/22
Game 5: 4/24*
Game 6: 4/26*
Game 7: 4/28*

(M2) Capitals v (M3) Islanders
Game 1: Wednesday
Game 2: Friday
Game 3: Sunday
Game 4: 4/21
Game 5: 4/23*
Game 6: 4/25*
Game 7: 4/27*
*-if necessary

Rogers/CBC in Canada as this is their first postseason in over a decade. In the US, the NBC-Universal family, including the return of the NHL postseason to USA for the first time since 1985. USA was the NHL's first cable home in the United States for a few seasons, until 1985, when ESPN outbid the network.

Because it's the Cup.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Anti-Social Media "The Way You Are"

The Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40 continues with last year's host country, which will be represented by the band Anti-Social Media (pictured) with "The Way You Are" (Denmark).

This is one serious contender to win it all. "The Way You Are," is a very catchy alternative rock piece. If you like related bands like weezer, than this is for you! It also has that distinct garage rock sound, so I'm sure this will attract people across Europe to vote for them to perform in the grand final. They will make it in anyway. See them perform in the first semifinal on May 19. Finally a good legitimate song for Denmark in the ESC!

Up next: Stig Rasta & Elina Born "Goodbye to Yesterday"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Vaclav Noid Barta & Marta Jandova "Hope Never Dies"

The Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40 reviews continue. Up next is a review of the entry which marks the return of the Czech Republic to EUROVISION.

It has been three years of absence for the Czechs in the ESC. However, this year, the Czechs are back with yet another of the countless number of ballads in this year's event. "Hope Never Dies" by Vaclav Noid Barta and Marta Jandova (both pictured) is a ballad that is almost reminiscent of another past ESC entry: "Never Forget" by Jonsi and Greta Salome Jonsondottir from 2012 (that song made the grand final that year). Not really similar, but almost. However, Barta's voice just doesn't fit here.

I don't think this is a good entry, neither it is bad, but to me, it's going to be borderline for these two to make grand final Saturday; they might not even make it. They will both perform this on May 21 in the second semifinal. Good luck to these two.

Up next: Anti-Social Media "The Way You Are"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Giannis Karagiannis "One Thing I Should Have Done"

Yet another ballad for review for Vienna 2015 in '40 For 40' series. Giannis Karagiannis (pictured) with "One Thing I Should Have Done" (Cyprus).

"One Thing I Should Have Done" is a simple ballad with calmed down guitar riffs and a steady beat. However, this doesn't go to well for me, considering this is too mainstream. This is basically almost a ripoff of the '90s RnB/pop sound of that caliber. As a result, I don't think this song will qualify for the grand final that following Saturday. He will perform in the second semifinal on May 21.

This is also the return of Cyprus to the ESC for the first time since 2013. I got to say, 2013 was better than this, but Cyprus hasn't had a real good song...in nearly two decades.

Up next: Vaclav Noid Barta and Marta Jandova "Hope Never Dies"

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Loic Nottet "Rhythm Inside"

The Vienna 2015 60th Anniversary ESC 40 For 40 continues. Up next, my 'review' of Loic Nottet (pictured), with "Rhythm Inside" (Belgium).

Of the 40 entries, I felt like I couldn't get into this one. Too mainstream, and he sounds like Justin Bieber. I'm sure that among Europeans who will watch him perform in the first semifinal on May 19, Beliebers and those who find him 'sexy' will vote for him to make it to the grand final, which is sad. This song is not special, and is the bottom of the 40 entries this year. Sorry folks. That's my opinion.

Up next: Giannis Karagiannis "One Thing That I Should Done"

Remember, skipped Austria and saved it for last.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Uzari & Maimuma "Time"

The 60th Anniversary EUROVISION 40 for 40 for Vienna continues. Next up is a review of "Time," a collaboration between Uzari and Maimuma (Belarus).

Good to see something good come out musically for Belarus (for the first time since 2013). Time is a catchy, alternative, piano based ballad that flows on freely. Nothing else can be said. This is yet another of the countless amounts of ballads this year in Vienna. This will no doubt qualify for the grand final. Both will perform this in the first semifinal on May 19.

TEO can have his cheesecake, and since I love cheesecake, this one has a strawberry on top. In other words: TEO is plain, while these two kicked it up a notch. Enough said.

Up next: Loic Nottet "Rhythm Inside"

Friday Jukebox 4.10.15: Some Civil War-Era Music

On Thursday April 9, 1865 marked the sesquicentennial of the handshake to end it all at Appomattox Court House, Virginia. A little tie-in to this week's FJ: some Civil War era music, Southern Soldier by the 2nd South Carolina String Band of the Confederacy. It was indicative of the music during that time, considering this was motivational battle music.

150 Years ago April 9: The Handshake to End it All

Thursday, April 9, 1865 marked the sesquicentennial of the end of the United States Civil War. It was also one of the early playings of Deal or No Deal. No models or briefcases included. Sorry Dick de Rijk and John de Mol.

One handshake between General Ulysses S. Grant and General Robert E. Lee cemented the four year battle between the Union and the Confederacy. It began a path of reconstruction in the southern United States.

All of which wasn't easy. Five days later, President Lincoln, while at Ford's Theatre in Washington, was spotted by a Confederate actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth, who decided to end Lincoln's life. And he did.

Grant would later be elected in 1868 and would serve two terms as President, at a time the south was under reconstruction.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 for 40: Guy Sebastian "Tonight Again" (Australia's ESC Debut!)

Now what you're about to see is real. Nothing is fake or made up, but yes. This is history made in the EUROVISION Song Contest this year.

That being said, Australia is making their ESC debut in Vienna, and will compete in the Grand Final as a 'guest' participant. Therefore, their first ever ESC participant is Guy Sebastian (pictured), who will perform "Tonight Again" on May 23.

"Tonight Again" is just a typical, mainstream pop tune, with mainstream pop vibes. I feel that Australia's ESC debut is not going to be a good one. They could get less than ten points. Welcome to the ESC Australia.

Now why is Australia in the ESC to begin with? Australia is one of the largest non-European viewing markets for the ESC on TV, as it has been broadcasted on SBS since 1983. Could this open the door for non-European nations to compete down the road? I mean, there's already have been such case in ESC history. Morocco competed in 1980, as their only ESC appearance. Cyprus, geographically Asian (but culturally European), has been in ESC for a while and will return this year. Azerbaijan, Armenia, Turkey and Israel are all culturally Asian, and also compete in this event (except Turkey, which has been absent since 2012). Maybe Kazakhstan could come on board? Stay tuned.

Up next: Uzari & Maimuma "Time"

BELLATOR MMA 136: Lightweight Title Fight

BELLATOR MMA is back this Friday night with another title fight!

Will Brooks will defend his BELLATOR lightweight title against Dave Jansen. Plus kickboxing legend Joe Schilling returns as is Alex Volkov.

Also Marcin Held takes on Alex Sarnavskiy. Plus Brian Rogers takes on Joey Beltran in preliminaries. Fabricio Guerreiro and Saad Awad are also in preliminaries.

CARD

Light heavyweight championship
(155 lb/69.75 kg)

Will Brooks (c) v Dave Jansen

Live on Spike Friday night! 

MMA World Series of Fighting 20: Light Heavyweight Tournament Semifinal

This was originally the fight card, then some changes due to promotional conflicts.

But we have a tournament semifinal for this, the 20th MMA World Series of Fighting event: in the light heavyweight division as David Branch takes on Jesse McElligott. Winner advances to the final where the #1 contender spot is up for grabs.

The fights are Friday night on NBCSN and LIVE!

My 60th Anniversary ESC Tournament of Champions: And the Winner Is...

LORDI, "Hardrock Hallelujah"! The greatest champion in EUROVISION Song Contest history! To no surprise, pound for pound!

Who needs public opinion? This was my fantasy tournament!

"This is Your Sheriff Rosco...P. Coltrane!" James Best, 88

Link.

A Tradition Unlike Any Other: The Masters Tournament 2015

Welcome back to major mode!

You know what that means? It's Masters time. A tradition unlike any other. Remember, Bubba is back is well.

Also 98 invitees this year, higher than the last three years. Impressive. UPDATE: 95 will tee off Thursday.

NOTABLE TEE TIMES of interest
(Thursday/Friday, times local to course)
Larry Mize (7:56am/11:03am)
Tom Watson (8:07am/11:14am)
Gary Woodland (8:07am/11:14am)
Camilo Villegas (8:07am/11:14am)
Mike Weir (8:18am/11:25am)
Vijay Singh (8:29am/11:36am)
Darren Clarke (8:29am/11:36am)
Jose Maria Olazabal (8:40am/11:47am)
Kevin Na (8:40am/11:47am)
Jonas Blixt (8:51am/12:09pm)
Kevin Streelman (8:51am/12:09pm)
Keegan Bradley (9:02am/12:20pm)
Ian Poulter (9:02am/12:20pm)
Miguel Angel Jimenez (9:13am/12:31pm)
Lee Westwood (9:13am/12:31pm)
Bubba Watson (9:24am/12:42pm)
Justin Rose (9:24am/12:42pm)
Adam Scott (9:35am/12:53pm)
Dustin Johnson (9:35am/12:53pm)
Steve Stricker (9:57am/1:04pm)
Ben Crenshaw (10:08am/1:15pm)
Jason Dufner (10:08am/1:15pm)
Webb Simpson (10:19am/1:26pm)
Paul Casey (10:19am/1:26pm)
Hideki Matsuyama (10:19am/1:26pm)
Charl Schwartzel (10:30am/1:37pm)
Joost Luiten (10:30am/1:37pm)
Phil Mickelson (10:41am/1:48pm)
Rory McIlroy (10:41am/1:48pm)
Ryan Moore (10:41am/1:48pm)
Martin Kaymer (10:52am/1:59pm)
Brandt Snedeker (10:52am/1:59pm)
Erik Compton (11:03am/7:45am)
Ian Woosnam (11:03am/7:45am)
Kevin Stadler (11:24am/7:56am)
Trevor Immelman (11:24am/7:56am)
Sandy Lyle (11:36am/8:18am)
Bernhard Langer (11:47am/8:29am)
Bernd Wiesberger (11:47am/8:29am)
Geoff Ogilvy (11:47am/8:29am)
Zach Johnson (12:09pm/8:40am)
Jim Furyk (12:09pm/8:40am)
Ernie Els (12:09pm/8:40am)
Angel Cabrera (12:20pm/8:51am)
Louis Oosthuizen (12:20pm/8:51am)
Mark O'Meara (12:31pm/9:02am)
Padraig Harrington (12:42pm/9:13am)
Thomas Bjorn (12:42pm/9:13am)
Mikko Ilonen (12:53pm/9:24am)
Hunter Mahan (12:53pm/9:24am)
Matt Kuchar (1:04pm/9:35am)
Brooks Koepka (1:04pm/9:35am)
Graeme McDowell (1:04pm/9:35am)
Jordan Spieth (1:15pm/9:57am)
Henrik Stenson (1:15pm/9:57am)
Billy Horschel (1:15pm/9:57am)
Fred Couples (1:26pm/10:08am)
Luke Donald (1:37pm/10:19am)
Victor Dubuisson (1:37pm/10:19am)
John Senden (1:37pm/10:19am)
Jimmy Walker (1:48pm/10:30am)
Tiger Woods (1:48pm/10:30am)
Rickie Fowler (1:59pm/10:41am)
Sergio Garcia (1:59pm/10:41am)
Jason Day (1:59pm/10:41am)

First and second rounds on ESPN Thursday and Friday, CBS on Saturday and Sunday. Missed anything from the ESPN coverage, turn on CBS after local news Thursday and Friday night for highlights!

For best results, pull up Masters.com for live video and Westwood One commentary! A tradition unlike any other.

2015 NCAA Division I Men's (Ice) Hockey Tournament Semifinals Thursday!

It's that time of year!

The NCAA Division I men's (ice) hockey national semifinals on Thursday. This year, it's the Toronto Dominion Garden in Boston as the venue, with Hockey East hosting this portion of the tournament.

The craziness in the tournament has been awesome. In fact, no one knew Providence would be in at this state, and with huge performances against the Miami Redhawks and the Denver Pioneers, the Friars are trying to end that 30 year Frozen Four drought.

The main event will pit the Boston University Terriers against North Dakota, meaning we will see plenty of Zane McIntyre in goal, and plenty of moves from Jack Eichel. A blockbuster matchup in the night session Thursday night.

NATIONAL SEMIFINALS
Thursday
Nebraska Omaha v Providence College
North Dakota v Boston University

Both semifinals are on ESPN2 Thursday, and the championship on ESPN for the 32nd(?) consecutive year on Saturday!

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Elnur Huseynov "Hour of the Wolf"

Another ballad on our hands for Vienna 2015. This time it is Elnur Huseynov (pictured) with "Hour of the Wolf" (Azerbaijan).

One of many ballads on the assembly line this year, "Hour of the Wolf" is atmospheric, and relaxing. Huseynov brings in a good voice. As far as this song stands in terms of qualifying: he will perform on May 21 in the second semifinal. This is one of many that are borderline, but this one will make it in by a fingernail (based upon scoring). Who knows what's going to happen!

Up next: Guy Sebastian "Tonight Again," and why this is relevant to the ESC this year.

My 60th Anniversary ESC Tournament of Champions: Championship Match

And then there were two...Lordi's "Hardrock Hallelujah" (2006) and Loreen Talhaoui's "Euphoria" (2012). No doubt about this one, so for those who think these two wouldn't be here, you are wrong. These are superior winners and two of the best winners in ESC history.

How they got there...

Loreen "Euphoria" (2012)

First round: defeated Lys Assia "Refrain" (1956)
Second round: defeated Secret Garden "Nocturne" (1995)
Third round: defeated Dave Benton and Tanel Padar "Everybody" (2001)
Quarterfinals: defeated Ruslana "Wild Dances" (2004)
Semifinals: defeated Lena Meyer Landrut "Satellite" (2010)

Lordi "Hardrock Hallelujah" (2006)

First round: bye
Second round: defeated Riva "Rock Me Baby" (1989)
Third round: defeated Dana International "Diva" (1998)
Quarterfinals: defeated Salome "Vivo Cantando" (1969)
Semifinals: defeated Vicky Leandros "Apres Toi" (1972)

Check back soon!

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 For 40: Genealogy "Don't Deny/Face the Shadow"

This happens to be one of the most unique entries in EUROVISION Song Contest history.

The 'Genealogy' project (pictured) is consisted of five different singers from five different continents on one song. The one catch: they are all Armenian. These five will sing for Armenia with a song originally called "Don't Deny," but was most recently changed to "Face the Shadow." Same fucking difference.

"Don't Deny/Face the Shadow" is what I call an 'alternative' ballad. This ballad is a ballad, but with alternative rock sounds, so if you like ballads (which this year's ESC has a lot of), and you like alternative rock, then this is your calling. The song will perform on 19 May in the first semifinal. No doubt about it, this will qualify for the final the following Saturday, giving another grand final appearance for Armenia.

Up next: Elnur Huseynov "Hour of the Wolf"

It's a Few Days Late, But...

Congrats to the USA Hockey women! Once again world champions!

One Last Thought: 2015 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship

Did anyone see the tip of the middle finger strike the ball with less than two minutes to go? We did. I felt like that the refs have a disdain for the B1G, since they're headquartered in Indy.

Anyway, good tournament, despite lack of upsets. We'll see if it heats up next year. Congrats Duke.

Vienna 2015, 60th ESC 40 for 40: Elhaida Dani "Diell"

With 43 days remaining until the first night of the 60th EUROVISION Song Contest in Vienna begins (on my birthday), I begin to start counting down and introduce the 40 participants, plus the semifinal and final predictions.

Let's get this party started! Fuck 30 for 30, it's 40 for 40: The 60th EUROVISION Song Contest.

The first participant featured is Elhaida Dani (pictured), who will sing "Diell" in the first semifinal May 19 for Albania. The song is one of a slew of ballads this year (and there is a shitload of these). "Diell" is one of those ballads in which it's mediocre in atmospheric levels, and is borderline mainstream in vocals. She sounds like Mariah Carey. Seriously. "Diell" is one of those songs that are borderline to qualify, but to me, this will be one of six in the first semifinal which will load it up. That is my opinion folks.

Up next: Genealogy "Don't Deny"

My 60th Anniversary EUROVISION Tournament of Champions: Final Four

As the road to Vienna continues, my fantasy 60th anniversary EUROVISION tournament of champions are now down to the final four. Four different countries represented here.

SEMIFINALS
(1) Euphoria v (3) Satellite
(1) Hardrock Hallelujah v (10) Apres Toi

Remember this is my tournament, no voting here. Only survive and advance.

Come on back and see who will be one step closer to becoming the ultimate EUROVISION Song Contest champion!

NCAA Women's Division I Basketball Tournament 2015: Tampa Semifinals

The other NCAA Division I championship--unlike the men--is a very different picture.

All four teams in Tampa on Sunday are all number one seeds, including Maryland, whose coach (Brenda Frese) has had to deal with one of her twin sons' battle with leukemia. A great, heartwarming story. With Wisconsin's win on Saturday against previously-unbeaten Kentucky in the men's semifinal, I'm pretty sure that the Terps might be in a good position to destroy last year's national champion Connecticut Huskies in the first semifinal.

In the second semifinal, the Dawn Staley-led South Carolina Gamecocks are in prime position to basically get this far in program history, but one problem: a tough Notre Dame program and McGraw-ball will be in full force.

NATIONAL SEMIFINALS
Sunday
(1A) Connecticut v (1S) Maryland
(1OKC) Notre Dame v (1G) South Carolina

Four different conferences represented, the way it should be. Both the semifinals on Sunday and the final on Tuesday night are on ESPN, the mothership.

NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament: National Semifinals Saturday!

Despite the RFRA passing in Indiana, and the responses and fracas within it, the show must go on.

Could this be an all-B1G final on Monday night? The setting is there, considering this could be the third (or fourth?) meeting of the year between Michigan State and Wisconsin if they can get by on Saturday in the semifinals.

Also consider that the B1G is headquartered in Indianapolis; the same with the NCAA. We'll see on Saturday.

NATIONAL SEMIFINALS
Saturday
(1W) Wisconsin v (1MW) Kentucky
(1S) Duke v (7E) Michigan State

The national semifinals are on tbs Saturday. But if you want to hear 'localized' coverage with the 'TeamStream by Bleacher Report' during the game:

• truTV has the B1G with Wisconsin and Michigan State 
• TNT has Duke and Kentucky

The national final is on CBS on Monday, for the 34th consecutive year. Sadly, no Punjabi feeds.

Friday Jukebox 4.3.15

Sorry I'm a little late here, but this past week marked the 20th anniversary of Selena Quintanilla's slaying. The real Selena, not Selena Gomez. This is one of her biggest hits, "No Me Queda Mas." 

Have yourselves a very happy Easter. 

Getty Oil Heir Found Dead

Link.

So sad.

GLORY 20: Lightweight & Featherweight Championship Fights

GLORY World Series returns on Friday night with their 20th event.

The headliner will pit lightweight champion Robin van Roosmalen, as he defends his title against Andy Ristie. There will be another title fight as Gabriel Varga takes on Mosab Amrani for the GLORY featherweight championship. Plus the one night semifinals for the middleweight #1 contender, featuring Wayne Barrett.

In the prelims, there will be a light heavyweight title eliminator, and also Dustin Jacoby will be in action.

CARD

Lightweight championship

Robin van Roosmalen (c) v Andy Ristie

Featherweight championship

Gabriel Varga v Mosab Amrani

Middleweight #1 contender semifinals (one night)

Jason Wilnis v Alex Pereira

Wayne Barrett v Simon Marcus

The card will air Friday on SPIKE, but on tape at night.