Premier Players Magazine

DURANT vs. JAMES inside the MVP race of the century

CHICAGO in 24 HOURS: a sports fan’s dream

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2014 NFL MOCK DRAFT

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A LD ERSON LUX URY VEH I C LES w ww.a ldersonluxur y.com

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INSIDE Carnell Moore CEO + PUBLISHER

Irene Farrimond EDITOR IN CHIEF Katelyn Campbell MAGAZINE STAFF

Andrew Hardy MAGAZINE STAFF

04 THE LEADOFF 14 MVP WATCH 16 NFL MOCK DRAFT 22 NBA PLAYOFFS 24 TRAVEL: CHICAGO 28 CHEERLEADER

OF THE ISSUE 30 LONGHORN

LEGEND: AUGIE

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the LEADOFF

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Am I [supposed] to go home and say I faced Tanaka tonight? Just go throw a party that I faced Tanaka?

It’s another pitcher. Another pitcher in the rotation. Nothing special to me. It’s just another guy that we have to go through to get to where we want to be.

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- ADAM JONES of the BALTIMORE ORIOLES photo by Keith Allison

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The Ottawa Senators prepare to face off against the Vancouver Canucks at BC Place Stadium for the 2014 NHL Heritage Classic.

The Senators went on to defeat the Canucks 4-2. Photo by Rick Chung.

the LEADOFF

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[TALK] MONEY

Lebron James and Russell Wilson have more in common than you might think. Yes, they’ve both won championships, but could they possibly be among the most underpaid players in their leagues?

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russell wilson Incredibly, the Seattle Seahawks superstar is not only one of the lowest paid quarterbacks in the league, he’s also the lowest paid quarterback on his team!

Russell Wilson, entering his third year in the NFL is bound by the 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement, and cannot see an increase in his $662,434 salary until after the 2014 season is over. With the recent addition of Terrell Pryor ($700K), and veteran Tavaris Jackson ($1.2M) already on the roster, Wilson is the third-highest paid quarterback on his own team!

the LEADOFF

lebron james This 6’8” scoring machine just might be the most underpaid athlete in sports history.

Sure, Lebron James will make just over $19 million in the 2013-2014 season. But compared to the revenue he brings in for the Miami Heat, that’s the deal of the century. By successfully signing Lebron in 2010, Miami’s team valuation immediately jumped by 17%, according to a study in Forbes magazine. Compare that with the Cleveland Cavaliers losing 26% of their valuation, and we find that Lebron was worth a $182 million swing!

I N O T HE R M ON E Y NE WS ...

With the start of the 2014 season, the New York Yankees gave up the crown of having the highest payroll in baseball for the first time in 15 years. The title was taken by the LA Dodgers, whose $235 million payroll beat out the Yankees’s mere $204 million. There were no surprises at the bottom of the list, however, where the Houston Astros took the lowest spot with total combined player salaries of just over $44 million.

Photos by Mat Hayward and Anthony Corveia (inset) via Shutterstock.com.

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I think the NFL is 10 years away from an implosion, I’m just telling you, pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered. And they’re getting hoggy. Just watch.

Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered.

When you try to take it too far, people turn the other way.

I’m just telling you, when you’ve got a good thing and you get greedy, it always, always, always, always, always turns on you. That’s rule number one of business.

- MARK CUBAN to ESPNDallas.com photo by Keith Allison 12

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the LEADOFF

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Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps announced he would come out of retirement with the hopes of competing in the 2016 Summer Games. In his first race back, the Mesa Grand Prix on April 24, Phelps beat rival Ryan Lochte in the qualifying round, but was edged out by his rival by .2 seconds in the final that evening. Photo by Mitch Gunn via Shutterstock.com.

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Running alongside nearly 36,000 participants, Meb Keflezighi became the first American to win the Boston Marathon since 1983. Keflezighi finished with a time of 2:08:37 in an emotional victory, after last year’s finish-line bombing.

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33 DU R AN T JA ME S

SEASONS

2014 PPG

44% HtoH WINS

MVP TITLES

29½

58 %

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MVP WAT CH 14

It’s one of the tightest races in NBA history. But how do superstars Kevin Durant and Lebron James stack up on the season - and their careers?

Photos by Oleksiy Naumov (Durant) and Domenic Gareri (James) via Shutterstock.com

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2014 %FG

2014 statistics current at of press time.

CHAMPIONSHIPS

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Jadeveon Clowney DE, South Carolina to the Houston Texans Players like Jadeveon Clowney don’t come around every year. For the Texans to have the chance to line him up opposite of J.J Watt would be a dream. We expect Clowney to fit great as a linebacker in the 3-4 set. While there are questions about his work ethic after reports of him taking off plays, this shouldn’t stop the Texans from bringing him to Reliant Stadium. The Texans struggled on defense last year and were drastically impacted by injuries to players like Brian Cushing - adding Clowney to their ranks would mitigate this risk. Of course, the Texans will be tempted to draft a QB in the first round, but there are plenty of talented QBs in this year’s draft that should be available in the later rounds.

PREMIER PLAYERS

2014 NFL MOCK DRAFT 17

by Andrew Hardy

02 ST. LOUIS

Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn Greg Robinson looks to be the best run blocking lineman in the draft and Zach Stacy would benefit the most out of the pick. Sam Bradford is coming off a major injury but given how little he moves around the pocket, they really just need to worry about protecting him. Robinson made a lot of noise this year along with the talented Auburn Tigers. Sitting at 6’5” and 232 pounds, there’s no denying that he is one gifted specimen. Robinson would be to hard to pass up. Robinson paved the way for Tre Mason‘s 1,621 yards and 22 touchdowns and a National Title birth. The Rams will reap many benefits in the future with this pick.

04 CLEVELAND

Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M

03 JACKSONVILLE

Khalil Mack, OLB, Buffalo While many people may not have know much about this 6’3”, 251 pound linebacker from Buffalo will soon be a household name. There weren’t many chances for football fans to catch this Mid-American Conference player on TV this last season, but here shined in the spotlight during his first game versus Ohio State. In that game he had 2.5 sacks and an interception, returning it 45 yards for the score. There is no question the Jaguars need a leader on the defense, and Khalil Mack is a perfect fit. He finished his college career with 75 tackles for a loss and 16 forced fumbles, which is impressive no matter what program you play for. Khalil always plays the game with a chip on his shoulder and strong emotion. Mack is a solid defender that would go great in a 3-4 or a 4-3 scheme, and is a mold of the type of linebacker you can build a defense around.

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Johnny Manziel has been the face of college football the past two years. Perhaps Manziel’s greatest strength is that he plays the game with no memory. He dazzled on the football field and turned more broken plays into first downs then I’ve ever seen in my life. With the Browns desperately needing a new quarterback, Johnny Manziel is best in this year’s draft. With as much flack he receives from being so called “lucky,” many people fail to give him credit for how accurate he is. But after this past year’s Super Bowl, no one will question him based on height. The Browns are going to blessed if Johnny Football makes it to them, and they will not pass him up.

05 OAKLAND

Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson Sammy Watkins has exceptional football playing speed and can flat out fly past a defense. He has world class track speed, as well as amazing body control. He has an amazing ability to go up and pluck the ball from the air with his strong hands. In Oakland, expect him to consistently turn 2-yard gains into 15+ passes, led by new QB Matt Schuab. In need of a talented receiver, oakland can’t afford to pass up on his rare speed, complimented by his soft hands and big play ability. Sammy is a nightmare for any defense, and will keep coordinators up at night for years to come. Watkins is one of the most talented receivers to come out of the draft in recent memory, so don’t be surprised if a team tries to trade up and steal him.

06 ATLANTA

Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M Brother of Clay III and son of Clay Jr., every football fan will recognize his last name, Jake Matthews looks to follow the family tradition. He arguably could be the first lineman taken off the board, depending on upcoming trades but for would be a great fit with the Falcons. The Falcons offensive line struggles were epidemic last year: they couldn’t run the ball, their main receivers went down with injury, and they couldn’t keep defenses off of Matt Ryan. Matthews is a great blocker and was key to keeping teammate Johnny Manziel from opposing pain. He has great strength and his amazing footwork. Expect Matthews to be a pro bowl Tackle in the NFL for many years to come.

08 MINNESOTA

Blake Bortles, QB, University of Central Florida Standing 6’4” and weighing 230 pounds, Bortles has the ability to zip the ball into tight windows as well as run past more than a few defenders. Although his technique may need to be polished a bit, he has no problem making it work at the college level. Minnesota is in desperate need for a high-class quarterback and Bortles fits the profile.

This would be a great chance for Blake to have immediate success along side a very talented offense lead by veteran running back Adrian Peterson. His height makes him stand out from the rest as well as his arm strength and leadership.

07 TAMPA BAY

Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M Mike Evans is a former basketball standout with amazing size and height. Big and strong for powering through the jam, Evans is an amazing outside blocker, and the way he boxes out defenders clearly comes from his days on the hardwood. For the Buccaneers to be able to put him opposite side of Mike Williams would be a game changer.

Standing at 6’5” and weighing in at 231 pounds, Mike Evans has strong hands and is a bully to small corners.

After averaging 20 yards per catch last year, this receiver would be a major asset to Tampa Bay. He will be a 21-year-old rookie, so he has many more years under his belt. Don’t expect Tampa to pass him up.

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THE REAL THING: The 2014 NFL Draft New York City Thursday, May 8 @ 8pm EST Friday, May 9 @ 6:30pm EST Saturday, May 10 @ noon EST on NFL NETWORK

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09 BUFFALO

10 DETROIT

Eric Ebron is one of those tight ends that you could also call a wide receiver. This athlete has world-class speed for his size and has developed great hands and footwork. His blocking does need some improvement, but considering what else he can do, Buffalo shouldn’t worry about polishing his form. With the new trend of fast, athletic tight ends, Ebron is an offensive coordinator’s dream.

Buffalo has E.J. Manuel returning for his second season since being taken in the first round of last years draft, and would greatly benefit from the addition of this terribly gifted athlete. He would be a nightmare for any opposing defense and could free up the Bills’ other receivers such as Robert Woods.

Measuring up at 6’1” and weighing in at 208 pounds, Alabama’s Ha Ha Clinton Dix is a top ten talent. Unlike his first name, he will not have opposing offenses laughing.

Detroit could use the improvement at the safety position and Dix is coming from a team that has proven to consistently win and put up great defense. Clinton Dix has great hands for interceptions in order to get the ball back in Matthew Stafford’s hands. Ha Ha is a secure tackler who takes direct angles to the ball. On top of all this, he was well coached in a pro style defense. For Detroit too add another great defender will give Suh more time to bully the opposing quarterbacks.

Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina

Ha Ha Clinton Dix, S, Alabama

11 TENNESSEE

18 NY JETS

26 CLEVELAND

12 NEW YORK GIANTS

19 MIAMI

27 NEW ORLEANS

13 ST. LOUIS

20 ARIZONA

28 CAROLINA

14 CHICAGO

21 GREEN BAY

29 NEW ENGLAND

15 PITTSBURGH

22 PHILADELPHIA

30 SAN FRANCISCO

State

23 KANSAS CITY

31 DENVER

24 CINCINNATI

32 SEATTLE

Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville

Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan

C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama

Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh

Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan

16 DALLAS

Timmy Jernigan, DT, FSU

17 BALTIMORE

Zack Martin, OT Notre Damn 20

Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State

Morgan Moses, OT, Virgina

Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville

Odell Beckham Jr, WR, LSU

Marqise Lee, WR, USC

Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana

Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State

25 SAN DIEGO

Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State

Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State

Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech

Jason Verrett, CB, TCU

Louis Nix III, DT, Notre Dame

Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech

Ra’shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota

Xavier Su’a-Filo, G, UCLA

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May 2014

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WEST

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EAST

2014 NBA PLAYOFFS The 2014 NBA Playoffs are underway!

Tear out this bracket and use it to keep track of the fight for the finals!

Photo by Eric Broder Van Dyke via Shutterstock.com

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TRAIN LIKE THE PROS, SO YOU CAN PLAY LIKE THE PROS. 24

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CHICAGO: 24 HOURS

a sports fan’s dream day in the windy city

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0900 HOURS

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Start the morning off right with a hearty brunch - you’re going to need the energy today! We love Feed for their hearty, southern-inspired breakfasts. Try classic eggs Benedict, or our favorite, roasted sweet potatoes with pulled pork, topped with a poached egg.

Hustle over to historic Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs take on an afternoon game. Ok, they probably won’t win, but enjoy the classic atmosphere, sunny day - and the other team!

It’s not a t without a deep-dish Giordano Meat stuff

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Photo by Anthony Ricci via Shutterstock.com

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1900 HOURS

2300 HOURS

trip to Chicago slice or two of h, so head over to o’s for a Meat & More fed pizza.

It’s Stanley Cup Playoff season, so you don’t have long to get over to the United Center for a Chicago Blackhawks playoff game.

Just be careful - NHL playoff crowds can get rowdy!

You’ve had a long day, so your head barely touches the pillow before you’re asleep in your suite at the historic Drake Hotel.

Photo by photosthatrock via Shutterstock.com

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Escape the ordinary.

VIS IT T U R K S & C A I C O S .

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Fun fact: When I was 8 years old I was an extra in the movie “Any Given Sunday” Favorite song: “You Rock My World” by MJ Years on the squad: 2 Hero: My grandmother Can’t live without: Chocolate Milk! Not one day will go by where I don’t drink it Hobbies: Making bracelets, outdoor activities and going on cruises with my family and friends.

r e f i n n e

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LONGHORN

LEGEND

Augie Garrido becomes winningest coach in college football history.

It took him only 45 years of coaching, but on March 23, 2014, Augie Garrido became the winningest coach in college football history with 1,894 victories. The 75-year-old has coached at the University of Texas at Austin since 1997 and won two College World Series championships with the team. Before coming aboard at Texas, Garrido won three titles with previous team California State University at Fullerton.

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The only thing 1,894 wins proves is that you are old. But it still feels good.

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