95th Edition - 2/8/07

• The Weekly Bull (28-21)

The Bulls continue their seven-game road trip this week with stops at Sacramento, Golden State and Phoenix. The realistic goal is to finish 4-3 (they are currently 2-2). The Bulls and Cavs are two games behind the Pistons for first place in the Central Division.

More important (it seems) is the recent comment by Bulls rookie forward Tyrus Thomas.

Thomas was quoted as saying he was ''just into the free money'' when questioned about the Feb. 17 contest, which guarantees the four participants a minimum $16,125 and up to $35,000 for the winner.

So, John Paxon (the Bulls) fined him $10,000. Thomas didn't throw a punch, take drugs or say anything to harm any particular group. He admitted that he liked money, and would participate in an activity he somewhat enjoys because it pays. Paxon fined him for liking money. Just like you starve a fat kid for liking Twinkies.

Hopefully, there was a meaningful dialogue that happened along with this. Though, based on his comments to the press after, I doubt it.

"I truly feel honored to be invited to participate in this year's slam dunk contest during next week's NBA All-Star Weekend in Las Vegas," Thomas said. "The opportunity to represent the Bulls and the city of Chicago on a global stage is a privilege that I do not take lightly. I regret the extent to which my comments indicate otherwise."

Wow, I think he borrowed most of that speech from "Bull Durham."

Why can't NBA organizations let rookies make a mistake in the media and then help them try to understand a better way to represent themselves and the league? I do love that a millionaire wants $16,125 and that's his motivation.

For another view, read Sam Smith of the Tribune (much more educated on the NBA than I am)

Some numbers...
Team Leaders
Points - Ben Gordon 21.3
Rebounds - Ben Wallace 10.0
Assists - Kirk Hinrich 6.3
Steals - Ben Wallace 1.5
Blocks - Ben Wallace 2.1

• Bears: staying

Ron Rivera might be staying a Chicago Bear after all, Wade Phillips, the defensive coordinator of the San Diego Chargers will become the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. It's his third head coaching position, so you know he's really good at it.

• NBA: sweet sixteen

The Mavs have won 16 games in a row at home. The Celtics have lost 16 in a row, and Bill Simmons (a die-hard Boston fan) thinks it's great (click here to read).

• Coming Tomorrow

Pictures and a quick story from my friend Mark and his Super Bowl trip

• Stuff

Remember how some guy was supposed to propose to his girlfriend during a live commercial on Super Bowl Sunday? Well, this is what happened. click here