Weekend Observations

It's not very often one play can change the complexity of a 7 game series, but LeBron's block on Tiago Splitter Saturday night is a definite exception.  For those of you that didn't see Game 2 of the NBA Finals (or the numerous replays on SportsCenter) LeBron James blocked a dunk attempt from Splitter at its highest point and at full force.  The play lead to a Miami basket, the crowd went nuts, and LeBron started beating on his chest like Denzel Washington in Training Day.  It's not the play itself that changed the entire series, but what the play represents.  From here on out the Heat realize they are physically superior to the Spurs and no matter how well San Antonio executes their offensive plays Miami has the ability to neutralize their success on key possessions.  The Spurs can argue it's not a big deal, but having your dunk blocked is embarrassing and demoralizing.  I have a tough time believing the Spurs will be able to get that image out of their heads any time soon.  The series is tied 1-1, but Miami has a distinct psychological advantage right now.  The Heat will win games 3, 5, and 6 to repeat as NBA champions.  Here are some observations over the weekend.

As predicted Rafael Nadal and Serena Williams were victorious at the French Open in historic fashion.  Serena became the first woman to win French Open titles 11 years apart and Nadal became the first men's player to win a Grand Slam title 8 times.  Grass is different than the clay, but I'm still picking these two to win Wimbledon in a few weeks.

The WNBA unveiled the ref cam during the Indiana/Phoenix game.  The technology looked rather unnecessary until the Diana Taurasi got up in the refs face and received a technical.  It was kind of cool to see the ref getting cussed out up close and personal.  Don't ask me how I know this.

The Chicago Blackhawks will meet the Boston Bruins for the Stanley Cup.  Chicago won the cup in 2010 and the Bruins won in Riotville, Canada in 2011.  I assume this series will be close.  There will be blood.  Chicago in 6.

After watching the Belmont Stakes on Saturday I think I want to check out the triple crown races in person.  Horse racing isn't as exciting as the NFL or the NBA, but given the right set of circumstances it looks rather intriguing.  Maybe I'm just getting old.