By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor
As a former athlete and sports enthusiast, my primary interests have centered around the usual American favorites: football, basketball, baseball, boxing, track & field, tennis, volleyball, et. al. Notice I haven’t mentioned ice hockey, the physically challenging game that requires the ability to skillfully ice skate while endeavoring to hit a small, black disk-like sphere or puck into a flexible net guarded by an imposing goalie with a stick in one hand and a glub in the other. I honestly and candidly admit that for the very first time I watched a televised hockey match in its entirety. The Florida Panthers, defending NHL champions, began defense of the Stanley Cup by traveling to Edmonton to face the Oilers, led by stars Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. Both games went into overtime, with each team winning a game. Now the series returns to Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, home of the Panthers. I will be watching. The Panthers dominated game 3 Monday night winning 6 -1. The next game is Thursday at Amerant.
Many may recall my commenting that to rise to a renown status in any sport, one must win major tournaments or championships. Apparently, Coco Gauff was listening as she became the first American in 10 years to win the French Open after defeating Aryna Sabalenka in three sets. Perhaps this victory will catapult her to the higher echelon of women tennis. Naomi Osaka, Madison Keys and Sloane Stephens have had their moments, but Coco seems the most likely heir apparent to Serena. Naomi Osaka’s defeat of Serena Williams in the U S Open, stymying her opportunity to tie Margaret Court for the most grand slam victories (24), actually proved detrimental for Naomi, who was unfairly booed by the pro Williams crowd. Points were taken from Serena who felt personally attacked by the umpire. The incident led to lingering mental health challenges for this fragile albeit talented young athlete.
The Indiana Pacers miraculous, come-from- behind road victory over the favorite Oklahoma City Thunder underscored the adage: that’s why you play the game. And though the Thunder eviscerated the Pacers in game 2, this series, I believe, will go six or seven games.
What say you….