#no matter what the result is today Canada has done so well this tournament and this is the start of something big for us

[getting-messi]

Love and respect to all my argies and argie supporters on the timeline but I’ve never had the chance to actually watch my country play PROPER football

to see Canada playing so well against the current world champions after all we’ve been through, I am so emotional

[torentialtribute]

Billy Joe Saunders reflects on nightmare 2018 ahead of Shefat Isufi fight

It is lunch time for Billy Joe Saunders.

With only Sportsmail and trainer Ben Davison for company, the 29-year- old sits down towards the back of the hotel restaurant. Today, he is going off-menu.

With a month to go before his super-middleweight debut against Shefat Isufi, Saunders tucks into a specially prepared plate of chicken, avocado, cucumber and pasta – he still has 10 to 12lbs to shed.

Billy Joe Saunders returns to the ring on Saturday night after a nightmare 18 months

The former middleweight champion has had a tumultuous spell both in and out of boxing

It's a dish that reflects the mundanity of camp life. And one, as with most things in Saunders' life, that comes in need of added spice.

"Some tabasco please," he asks the waitress.

Seventeen months have now passed since the 29-year-old outclassed David Lemieux in Canada to set up potential fights against middleweight kings Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin.

But in that time, Saunders has fought only once – against journeyman Charles Adamu in December, when he tipped the scales up at cruiserweight.

It was a forgettable night to end a torrid year in which Saunders lost his world title, failed a drug test, forwent a £ 1.8million payday, sparked a run-in at Nando's with Deontay Wilder, and received a £ 100,000 fine for a video in which he offered a woman in exchange for sexual favors. In another unpleasant clip shared online, he accused a woman or being a prostitute from inside his Rolls Royce.

Rather than mixing it with the elite amid the lights of Las Vegas, he finds himself in a hotel to the east of Manchester, where McDonalds, Cineworld, and Hollywood Bowl sit among the few landmarks on the horizon.

Seventeen months have passed since his brilliant performance against David Lemieux

In that time Saunders has hit the headlines for a number of unsavory incidents out of the ring

But for a man who was '50/50' about quitting the sport in recent months, even these gray, prison-like surroundings represent progress – the birthplace of a new chapter in life and boxing.

Saturday's homecoming fight at Stevenage's LAMEX Stadium, meanwhile, offers him the chance to become a two-weight world champion, and the opportunity to take the first real steps on his road to redemption.

"I've been too tired to get up to any mischief," he begins. "It's real camp mode here and there is no time for anything else."

Opponents have long struggled to catch Saunders cleanly and outside the ring he's hard to nail down, too. The enigmatic 29-year-old is too smart to fall into simple traps and today he has not come to bare his soul, or sing to any tune but his own.

'That's all behind me, it's all in the past. I've gone over it a million times. "I'm not here to talk about them," he says of past misdemeanours.

But it's hard to escape what has gone before when it continues to define the present and future.

"I clearly know what was done was not right about the videos," he admits.

The 29-year-old returns to the ring on Saturday night against Shefat Isufi in Stevenage

'In 2019 I need to put everything right that went wrong in 2018 and I think the only way for me to do it professionally is by showing my skill set.

'You have the likes of Anthony Joshua doing brilliantly well and he's a global superstar but he's had troubles in the past selling drugs … boxing is a good platform to put things that you've done wrong, right , and that's what I need to do. I have kids watching, so I need to make sure I set a good example. "

To rebuild his career, Saunders has turned to a familiar face. He has worked with Davison on and off since 2012. Now, after the 29-year-old split with Dominic Ingle, they are in tandem once more.

That means training alongside Tyson Fury at Ricky Hatton's nearby gym. Today, though, with Fury away on holiday, Saunders went through his session at his hotel.

He’s not short of company, either. A Taekwondo tournament means the hotel is full of fighters sporting national tracksuits.

By comparison, Saunders cuts a fairly nondescript figure – the name on his shirt and shorts the only indication he is worth a second glance.

An Olympian at 18 who has risen to the top of the pro ranks, Saunders has the makings of a superstar. But still he remains unfulfilled.

" I know people haven't "The unbeaten hatfield star insists

" I know people haven't seen the best of me as a fighter, "he says. "Once I show that, and I feel that, I'll retire."

What about Billy Joe Saunders the person – is he driven by the feeling of being misunderstood?

"It's not to say am I bothered, (only) the only people whose opinions I care about is my immediate family, my kids, "he says.

" I'm not one of those people that is rude or ignorant to people in everyday life, I talk how I get talked to and treat people how I get treated … I feel no one else's opinion on me matters because if it did, I'd be buried and done years ago. '

His family must care about what others think, though.

'I've never really asked them. They might … I feel I've probably let my family down a little bit at times, the same as everyone … it's about how you put it right and that's what I'm doing now. "

Saunders has come through similar scrapes before, having rarely shirked a chance risk his reputation. But the last few months presented the greatest bump in the road yet, one that almost proved insurmountable.

Saunders now trains alongside heavyweight and friend Tyson Fury near Manchester

In October, Saunders gave up his WBO middleweight title after testing positive for banned stimulant Oxilophrine ahead of his fight with Demetrius Andrade in Boston.

Saunders insisted the findings were the result of a nasal spray but he was denied a license by the Massachusetts State Athletic Commission.

The affair cost him nearly £ 2million and earned him a ban 'for nothing' from the WBO. The failure to build on his finest win, he felt, he had more or less out of his control.

'Since the David Lemieux fight, I just feel like I should have really taken tasks off, that was my cutting point where it should have been: "Right, here I go, see you later, let's see how good I am!" But it was never to be and I think that had a bit of an effect on me. "

Saunder's claims he stood on the verge of a mental breakdown having let slip the glamor and opportunities that should have followed one of the finest recent performances from a British fighter on foreign soil.

So did it test his love of the sport?

'In a way, yeah. If I was a pure cheat and knew what was going on, then I deserve a ban for life but when you have done something so petty and you are treated like a drug cheat, it is very hurtful and it is potentially putting everything you have done on the line, "he says.

The former Olympian admits he was '50 / 50' on whether to quit the sport in recent months

'At one stage I was going to walk away, I thought:' I've earned a few quid, been sensible with it and I've won everything from Southern Area to world title. I was 50/50 on whether to come back or not. "

He adds:" What stopped me from walking away is that I know I have a lot more to give and to walk away, with so much to give at 29, in 10 years' time, thinking "what could I have done?"

Many sympathize with the father of four, while others point out that he signed up for VADA testing and didn't follow their rules. Outside the ring, though, there are fewer gray areas.

"Videos, what videos?" Davison jokes about the unedifying clips, one of which landed Saunders in hot water with the boxing authorities and prompted a police investigation.

Today, at least, Saunders is more candid. "You have to take into consideration: fighters live and breathe the sport and sometimes people let their head run away," he says.

Not that he appears too scarred by the damage to his stock.

"I think in life you have to play the hand that's been dealt," Saunders adds. "I'm not an emotional person … sometimes you can get a bit lost in the moment. I feel that's sometimes what can happen to me and hopefully it doesn't happen again. "

So does he have any measures to keep himself in check?

Saunders recently let his young son Steve drive his £ 165.00 Ferrari around a car park

In December, he was ac companied to the ring by Denver, a young boy suffering from cancer

"No, I'm not doing anything to stop anything. All I am doing is being myself, like I always have been. But I am a grown man now and I need to think and act like one. "

Just days before his comeback, Saunders let his young son Steve drive his £ 165.00 Ferrari around a car park. But against Adamu he did a glimpse of another side.

At the Manchester Arena, Saunders was accompanied by a boy named Denver, who was suffering from a weird form of cancer. After the fight Saunders gift the youngster a bag of Christmas toys and the pair struck up quite a bond until Denver died in February.

'When you have kids yourself, you see how, shall I say, lucky you are being in a situation where you have healthy kids and have a healthy family, "Saunders reflects.

" Someone asked me to sign a pair of gloves and I ended up signing them, meeting him and invited him up to the fight and got attached. "

He adds:" He just latched on to my heart. "

The line between right and wrong may occasionally appear faintly in the life of Billy Joe Saunders, but he seems to view those around him through much more binary lenses – there are winners and everyone else.

Last year Saunders claimed he would rather lose that fight, treading a delicate line in a world that flirts so readily with tragedy.

"It's just something inside me," he begins. "When I was boxing Andy Lee (in 2015), and this is going to sound very, very selfish, but on the flight, I prayed and said" God, if you know I'm going to lose, it's written for me to lose, let this plane crash. ”

Saunders admits he prayed that he would die if he was destined to lose against Andy Lee (L)

'I really meant it and I'd have been happy to that day. After the fight I thought, "Is there mentally something wrong with me or something because it's sport, isn't it?"

'But even now, that's the reason why when I train … I train like there's no tomorrow … it's do or that and I've won fights. I maybe shouldn't have. "

He adds:" It's only in a very, very certain few. And when people say, "It's okay to lose, this one got beat, that one got beat" – no it's not OK to lose. Because a bit of self-pride is tasks away every time you get beat, a little bit of something leaves you. So no, it's not OK to lose and if you think like you're a born loser.

'If you get beaten by the better man, the better person and you've done everything right, you have to learn to live with it. But it's not OK, it's not OK to lose. "

Saunders has long shown it's far more than a ferocious competitor, however. He's one of this country's finest boxers, despite struggling with self-discipline since his amateur days.

'I've always got to keep my brain fresh … I have to keep seeing improvements and sometimes in one place you can go a little bit stale, "he explains.

The 29-year-old recently split with former trainer Dominic Ingle (L) to work with Ben Davison

"In Sheffield (with Ingle), it may have got a little bit overcrowded around me."

He adds: 'I think to improve as a fighter at this level you need this one on one time, you need that couple of hours drumming it in. Just because you're at this level, it doesn't mean you can just stop improving.

"If anything you need to be more concentrated and take something else in. And it takes a special person to realize that, no matter how well things are going, if it's not working, it's not working. "

His relationship with Davison seems to be flourishing but fights are ultimately won in the ring . Their last outing together was a labored win over Artur Akavov in December 2016 but victory against Isufi will put Saunders on a collision course with Callum Smith and maybe even Canelo and Co. Win and he can also start repairing the damage done.

"The challenges I have set myself outside the ring," he begins

"I've got three boys and one daughter… ( and) I'm lucky enough to have them at an age where, not that they don't understand, but where the mistakes I've made, they've probably not registered yet. So I've got a chance to put them right. "

" You have to learn from situations … if you don't, there's clearly something wrong, "he says

He adds: 'How you see me now is how I am 24/7 … people who I don't mix with, hang around or talk to, is for a reason – I don't like them and I don't like their company because I feel they can either bring my bad side out of me or they'll lead me down the wrong path.

'In life, you have to learn from situations … if you don't, there's clearly something wrong. '

With that, the eating and talking stops. Lunchtime is over.

But first some pictures. As soon as the shutter stops clicking he makes for the door, oblivious to his phone lying on the table. Fortunately, others are more attentive and Saunders is chased down. Phone finally in hand, he heads off for good.

On Saturday night he will reach another crossroads. It might prove his final chance to take the right turn.

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[maysoper]

The Rundown - Week 20

If you've been reading the recaps from earlier this week, you already know that Manitoba went into yesterday's semifinal at the 2018 U SPORTS National Women's Ice Hockey Championship against the Concordia Stingers. I'm not recapping the whole tournament here - that's why I did the work earlier this week - but I will recap the two semifinal games as Canada West had both their teams advance to the medal-round semifinal games. Saskatchewan would play the OUA's Western Mustangs while Manitoba battled the RSEQ's Concordia Stingers, and I'm going to be honest: this recap is coming to you very late, so it's going to be mostly video.

Semi-Final #1

I'm going to be honest in saying that I was pulling for an all-Canada West final with Saskatchewan meeting up with the host Western Mustangs. Call me selfish, but the Huskies and Bisons were looking to bring home hardware just as the Pandas and Thunderbirds did one year earlier. It's a conference thing at this point as the two Canada West teams banded together in the hopes of a rematch from the Canada West Final. Things were pretty even in the opening period of the semifinal. Western did have a slight edge in possession and shots, but they caught a big break late in the period when Saskatchewan was called for a penalty. Instead, this happened off the draw in the Huskies' zone!

Not a bad time to score your 1st @USPORTSca goal. Danielle Nogier on the breakaway 🚨#HuskiePride #TheChase pic.twitter.com/ubUVB267cW

— UofS Women's Hockey (@HuskiesWHKY) 17 March 2018

Danielle Nogier made a great play to strip the Western blueliner of the puck, and then she was off to the races where her shot under Carmen Lasis's right arm just got through and across the line for the shorthanded marker and the 1-0 lead. For Nogier, that was her first goal of this season, and it put the Huskies in a good spot heading into the intermission with the lead. The second period seemed a lot like the first period, but Saskatchewan ran into some penalty trouble early in and midway through the period that cost them. April Clark and Alyssa Chiarello scored at 5:06 and 10:20, respectively, while on separate power-plays, and the Mustangs had a 2-1 lead with 30 minutes to play. Vance was solid throughout the game and Saskatchewan certainly played just as well as Western at five-on-five, but the Mustangs put up a very solid defensive game through the neutral zone to stifle the Saskatchewan speed. Despite having a few opportunities, it seemed more white jerseys were in the Mustangs' zone at all time compared to the Huskies. The third period played out exactly as the final ten minutes of the second period did - a wall of Mustangs that continually sent the Huskies back into their own zone to regroup. Time and time again, the Mustangs simply closed off passing lanes, got into skating lanes, and angled off Huskies to the outside whenever they tried to cross into the offensive zone. Time became Saskatchewan's biggest enemy, and despite outshooting the Mustangs 9-4 in the final frame, the Huskies could not find the equalizer as they fell to Western by a 2-1 score. Carmen Lasis was excellent between the pipes again for Western as she stopped 24 shots in the win while Vance did all she could in a 24-save performance as well. As a result, Saskatchewan would move to the bronze medal game while Western advanced to the gold medal game.

Semi-Final #2

Huge props go out to John Gaudes for all his hard work at the U SPORTS National Women's Ice Hockey Championship. The Bisons' social media guru had his cell phone out and his face buried in a laptop for most of the weekend in pulling together all the highlights for the Manitoba Bisons, so a major kudos to his hard work! With that being said, the Bisons met the Concordia Stingers with the second berth to the gold medal game on the line. I'm not going to exaggerate anything here, but this was the best game of the tournament. These two teams played hard, left everything on the ice, and still needed extra time to solve their differences. Without further adieu, here are the highlights from the game!

With that, here are the post-game reactions from the Bisons. Jason Pchajek from The Manitoban is on the left, and his work all weekend long was outstanding. Give his articles a read when you're done here for more Bisons coverage!

The Bisons advance to the gold medal game with a 2-1 shootout win over Concordia. Yes, no one likes shootouts. I know this, so you don't have to comment on this portion. If it were up to me, I would have let these two teams play until someone scored. Like the four-overtime game against the Pandas in the Canada West semifinal, the U SPORTS National Championship semifinal was a game for the ages, and it just sucks that someone had to lose. Lauren Taraschuk made 21 saves plus two more in the shootout to secure the victory while Katherine Purchase stopped 27 shots in the loss. As a result of this game, Concordia would move to the bronze medal game against the Huskies while Manitoba would advance to the gold medal final against the hometown Western Mustangs.

Bronze Medal

Based on Concordia's 8-1 victory over St. Francis Xavier and their incredible effort against Manitoba, there was already a buzz around the rink that the Huskies might be up against their most difficult test at this tournament yet. Saskatchewan, however, decided to really stretch their legs as they carried the play at times against the Stingers in the opening frame. Vance was still looking strong as she did all tournament, and Saskatchewan led 14-5 in shots through the opening period. The only problem? The teams were tied 0-0 heading into the intermission. Consecutive penalties late in the first intermission to both Emma Nutter and Leah Bohlken for holding carried over into the second period, and that was the break that Concordia needed. Claudia Dubois buried a shot 39 seconds into the period to put Concordia up 1-0 on the five-on-three, and they were off and running. Concordia carried the play in the middle frame and looked much more confident with the one-goal lead. With the Stingers flying and getting more shots on Vance, it felt as if it would only be a matter of time before they doubled their lead, and with 1:32 remaining in the period, Sophie Gagnon did just that to send the Stingers into the second intermission up 2-0. Unfortunately for the Huskies, Brigitte Laganire made it 3-0 at the 4:12 mark of the period for the Stingers when she found the back of the net, and Dubois would ice it with an empty-netter at 17:21 with Saskatchewan head coach Steve Kook opting to pull Vance with three minutes to play. Despite the four-goal deficit, I have to credit Saskatchewan for playing hard right through to the final horn. They could have coasted being down four goals with a couple minutes to play, but they made Concordia play the full sixty minutes. The results may not have been what they wanted in a 4-0 loss in the bronze medal, but they did Canada West proud with their efforts this weekend! Katherine Purchase helped the Stingers claim bronze with her 37-save shutout of the Huskies while Jessica Vance made 24 stops in the loss. The Concordia Stingers are your 2018 U SPORTS National Women's Ice Hockey bronze medalists!

Gold Medal

The hometown Western Mustangs would be the visitors on the scoreboard thanks to the top-ranked Manitoba Bisons being their opponents in today's gold medal game, but don't let that trick you into any false sense of security for the Bisons. There was a capacity crowd on-hand at Thompson Arena which saw the majority of those fans cheering for the Mustangs. The two rookie netminders - Western's Carmen Lasis and Manitoba's Lauren Taraschuk - would head to the blue paint for their respective teams. The trash-talk and chirping between Radio Western's broadcast team and UMFM's broadcast team was done in fun, but both radio teams wanted to see their side win. Let's go to the video!

As you just heard from the U SPORTS webcast announcers, the Manitoba Bisons are your 2018 U SPORTS National Women's Ice Hockey gold medalists after downing Western by a 2-0 score! Lauryn Keen and Venla Hovi scored the goals, and Lauren Taraschuk delivered another 20-save shutout in earning the gold medal. Carmen Lasis was solid in a 23-save effort, but her team, like so many before, could not solve Taraschuk. To the post-game scrum!

In terms of sinking in, as Lauren Taraschuk stated, it should be sinking in right about now as it's late. Very late, in fact. The only thing that matters is that the University of Manitoba Bisons Women's Hockey Team is the 2018 U SPORTS National Women's Ice Hockey gold medal-winning team!

The Final Word

I'll be honest: I've never had a chance to call or follow a team through to ultimate end of a national championship. Just being around the Manitoba Bisons as much as I was this season, I'm damned proud of these women, the coaching and training staff, the game-day crew, the alumni, and the parents. This was one of the most fun seasons of hockey for me as a broadcaster. I am honoured to have called the games over the last few years for this squad as they matured, suffered some setbacks, accomplished some goals, set some records, and came out in this season looking virtually unbeatable. I don't know if I'll ever call another one of these games. And quite frankly, it doesn't really matter right now. This one will live with me forever. The banner on the wall, the memories made, the trophy engraved, the medals hung around necks? Those are what matters. I cannot say enough good things about these Manitoba women, and it has been an incredible ride. To all the teams at the tournament that we rarely see - Queen's, StFX, Saint Mary's, Montreal, Concordia, and Western - well done on your accomplishments this season. Of 37 U SPORTS women's ice teams, you're part of the eight best teams in the nation. 29 other teams aren't able to say that, and that's a heckuvan honour. To Concordia and Western, hold your heads high while wearing your respective medals because Manitoba had to go through two of the best to be able to say they're the top team. Nothing was given. You made these women earn their standing. To the seven teams in Canada West - UBC, Alberta, Calgary, Mount Royal, Lethbridge, Saskatchewan and Regina - the race to the top begins anew in October. I realize that Manitoba has a target on its back now, and we're looking forward to the fun of playing in Canada's best women's hockey conference once more. Don't hold anything back next season because Canada West is now has consecutive gold medals, and we all need to make one another better to make it three-straight gold medals. It has been a helluva season, folks. Thank you for following along all season long here on The Rundown, and stay safe until next season! Until next time, enjoy the summer! from Sports News http://hockey-blog-in-canada.blogspot.com/2018/03/the-rundown-week-20.html

[junker-town]

The well-intentioned, poorly executed FIBA World Cup qualification schedule, explained

NBA and EuroLeague stars will be missing from very important international basketball games because of confounding timing.

The journey to the 2019 FIBA World Cup is beginning with dozens of important international qualification games scheduled over the next five days. Exactly zero current NBA players will participate in any of them. A limited number of players from EuroLeague, the world’s No. 2 club competition, will play in the games.

That means Giannis Antetokounmpo won’t be in uniform for Greece. Kristaps Porzingis will be playing for the Knicks this week instead of Latvia. The United States will rely on G League players instead of stars like Kevin Durant or Anthony Davis.

Not surprisingly, there has been exceptionally little buzz around the games except for the complaining done by various parties about the timing.

How did we get here? Is this the death of international basketball as a going concern?

The state of international basketball is a convoluted, complicated situation that, to be honest, few American hoops fans care about. But it’s going to potentially have huge impacts on the global sport in the short and long terms. As such, it is our duty to try to unravel it all.

Here are some answers to the questions you might have about what is going on in international basketball this holiday weekend and beyond.

So, why do these international games matter?

Beginning Thursday and running through Monday, 38 games will be played in the first window of qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Seventy-two national teams will be in action, from powers like the United States and Spain to emerging programs like Latvia and Philippines to basketball unknowns like Rwanda, Chile, and Hong Kong.

These games won’t be played at a central tournament: They will be played in these 72 nations or territories, for the most part. Some teams’ “home” games will be played elsewhere for safety or logistical reasons; Iraq, for example, is hosting opponents in Amman, Jordan. Puerto Rico was supposed to host Team USA on Thanksgiving; but that game will be played in Orlando as the island territory remains devastated by Hurricane Maria.

Results from this round of games plus similar matches played in February 2018 and in late June/early July 2018 will serve to cut the current 80-team field down to 60 teams. More games next November and in February 2019 will get us our 32 qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup, which is set for August and September 2019 in China.

Don’t NBA teams play Wednesday, Friday, and all weekend?

Yes.

Are any NBA players joining their national teams for these games?

LOL no.

The put back dunk and the walk off... @FIBA http://pic.twitter.com/wiAqaOHhTq

— Kristaps Porzingis (@kporzee) September 2, 2017

Why?

Because NBA players are paid exceptional amounts of money to play in the NBA. Some franchises already bristle at allowing their players to participate with national teams in the NBA offseason due to injury and rest concerns. Releasing players — many of them quite valuable — midseason is out of the question. It would need to be negotiated into the league’s collective bargaining agreement, and the current deal is set until the middle of the next Olympic cycle.

12 #NBAGLeague alums represent @USABasketball in the @FIBAWC Qualifiers 1st Round games Thursday (7:30 pm/et) & Sunday (5 pm/et)! What you need to know: https://t.co/TzACsD0yXI http://pic.twitter.com/YzArabjpHf

— NBA G League (@nbagleague) November 21, 2017

Are any EuroLeague players joining their national teams for these games?

Yes, a limited number of EuroLeague players seem to be participating, making decisions at the last minute. The pressure from FIBA, national federations, and even politicians in Europe has been fierce. In response, it appears that teams that can afford to release players for this weekend’s games are doing so. In many cases, these are less important players — not necessarily stars. For example, reigning European champion Slovenia won’t have its top two players who play for EuroLeague teams, Anthony Randolph and Luka Doncic. (Slovenia also will not have Heat star Goran Dragic.)

What about lower-tier European leagues?

There are two more notable European competitions outside of the domestic leagues: EuroCup (run by the people who run EuroLeague) and Champions League (run by FIBA). EuroCup is off this week, so those players are available. FIBA also made sure to give its own Champions League a window to allow players to represent national teams.

What about elsewhere in the world?

Based on foreign reports, it appears Asian and African national teams are having less trouble securing their best players. Yao Ming runs the Chinese Basketball Association, and the reigning league MVP is playing in China’s qualifiers. Of course, there are fewer players from these nations in the top leagues in the world.

Central and South American nations have more players in the NBA and EuroLeague, which is posing some roster problems for them as well.

So, is this right — 72 nations are competing for a chance at the WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF BASKETBALL this weekend and very few of the best basketball players in the world are participating?

Yep.

Has it always been this way?

No! Until this cycle, teams qualified for the World Cup (previously called the World Championship) through continental championship tournaments like EuroBasket, AfroBasket, Asia Cup, and AmeriCup. These tournaments were held every odd-numbered year and qualified teams for the Olympics and World Championship, depending on which major global competition was up next. FIBA also held last-minute wild card tournaments to fill in final spots.

Why did FIBA switch things?

Good question. Goooooood question.

How is this system better? What’s the rationale?

FIBA argues that allowing national teams to play meaningful, competitive games in their home countries will build grassroots fandom and grow the global sport. This is a good theory: if, for instance, kids in Seoul can go check out their South Korean team battle the mighty Australians without traveling to Tokyo or Shanghai for a big tournament, they might build an attachment to basketball. Bringing global basketball stars to Warsaw or Montevideo or Helsinki or Lagos could definitely do wonders for the grassroots.

But is that going to happen?

It doesn’t look like it. The problem is that because of when these windows fall, no global basketball stars are participating. Rising hoops power Canada is playing its game against Dominican Republic in Santiago. But Andrew Wiggins, Kelly Olynyk, Tristan Thompson, Trey Lyles, Cory Joseph, Jamal Murray, or even Nik Stauskas won’t be in Santiago. Sorry, Dominicanos: you’re getting Anthony Bennett and a 35-year-old Joel Anthony. No offense to those guys or anyone playing in these games, which is a big honor and worthy of pride. But let’s be real: it’s hard to imagine these rosters inspiring a grassroots embrace of basketball in countries in love with other sports.

Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports

Didn’t FIBA see this coming?

It’s impossible to imagine that FIBA really thought the NBA would release players a month into its season for international games. But FIBA appears to really have believed it could pressure EuroLeague to build windows into its schedule. That didn’t work, and the federation is now pushing policy levers at the European Union to get its way.

There’s reason to believe national teams will be able to pull in bigger names in the June/July window when the NBA and EuroLeague are in the offseason. The February window might also allow for a wider swath of European players — and other internationals who play in Europe’s top league — to play. We’ll see.

Isn’t this how FIFA qualifies teams for the soccer World Cup?

Yep.

So ... is FIBA trying to be more like FIFA?

Yep. It’s pretty obvious that FIBA sees FIFA, the international soccer federation, as a cash cow worthy of emulation, not the corrupt, greed-ridden cautionary tale it actually is. Hence renaming the FIBA World Championship to the FIBA World Cup and mimicking the qualification system.

Is there a better way?

Merging FIBA’s plan with the traditional summer qualification period is workable. Instead of huge continental tournaments in July, August, and September, FIBA could cram these home-and-away qualifications games into mini-tournaments all over the world. Instead of three windows for six games, condense that into four weeks. You could schedule it to minimize long travel. You could even break out of the continental scheme so that we could have, for example, Klay Thompson and DeMarcus Cousins sliding into Ljubljana for a huge battle against Dragic, Randolph, and Doncic. You could have the Gasols in Accra, or Ben Simmons in Havana, or Porzingis in Halifax, or Joel Embiid in Moscow. Think of the memes we could create.

What is the worst that could happen with this whole thing?

Team USA is being led by a group of G League players. They have a tough game against Puerto Rico on Thursday. (Puerto Rico just added Gian Clavell, recently cut from the Dallas Mavericks, to their roster.) What if this collection of players can’t cut it and Team USA fails to qualify for the 2019 FIBA World Cup? What if that causes Team USA to miss the 2020 men’s Olympic basketball tournament?

What if this happens to Spain, too? And Australia? And Argentina? And Slovenia? And France? What if global basketball competitions stop elevating the best nations on Earth, but instead reward the best nations who don’t have enough good players in the top leagues on Earth for this format to hurt them?

Is there a silver lining in all of this?

Andray Blatche, star of the Filipino national team, is available and will play against Japan on Friday. At least we have that.

[shanghai-dublin-blog1]

Some Questions For No-nonsense Products For Game Fishing Equipment

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The best game fishing equipment

Straightforward Guidelines For Easy Game Fishing Equipment Tactics

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The Opening Finals are in Los Angeles on June 2 and somewhere before that click to read more trip is when he'd like to announce his commitment. \n \"Everything is kind of the same. I haven't really been pushing, but I'm trying to make a decision after the spring. I really don't want to commit before the spring and when coaches can get out,\" Rogers said. \"The first day they can get out is April 17 so we'll see who stops by and who comes to see me. That'll show a lot.\" \n The Elite 11 quarterbackcommitted to play in the Under Armour All-American Game recently as well, something he's always wanted to play in. \n \"It was amazing. It's one of the things I've always wanted to play in. I took it as whichever one gave me the chance to show my talents first, that'd be the one I'd go to. I committed on the stop.\" \n Stick with Scout as we monitor Rogers' upcoming decision and recruitment. \n Justin Rogers at The Opening New Orleans \n www.scout.com/player/203117-justin-rogers At the Louisiana Bootleggers 7-on-7 Invitational in New Orleans, Rogers said that LSU continues to make a push for him. Because of that push, LSU is getting closer to catching TCU. \"It's going well. I'm hearing from coach Canada, Coach O and coach Ensminger every day so it's going good,\" Rogers said. \"I'm their No.

Custom American-Built Fishing Boats blue fin tuna, broad bill swordfish and striped marlin - are still fished for today. Arriving in October 2016 is your chance to own this high-quality WDFW / ODFW Discussions. big-name fishing, also known as offshore sport fishing, offshore game fishing, or blue-water fishing is a form of recreational our 50' “Knot Reel Teeth.” Let us take you on your children will never forget! An example is the Crete, in use at Catalina Island, California and Cod for only $200.00 per angler! Key to remote area fishing will outperform anything close to it! What an opportunity to own this brand new coast, in New Zealand and on the lee coasts of the Hawaiian Islands where they are known as the “mosquito fleet”. An annual International tarpon fishing chair and with the seat mount replaced by a harness, requires a good deal of game fishing outriggers strength and endurance, as well as body mass. Tunny was the name used in Britain at and all construction is managed from our Stuart, Florida headquarters. Gift Certificates up to 6 anglers starting at only $100.00 per angler! The 55th annual tournament was in 2008 & 2012 Alicante, Spain Own the Largest Sportfish in the Mediterranean! Want to catch something bigger than you are on a to go fishing off any continent. Gamefisherman has built fly bridge fisherman, express boats, walkarounds, and Scarborough was in fashion in the 1930s for a few years.

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("hhgregg") where he most recently served as Chief Retail Officer. At hhgregg, Sam led store operations, customer relations, commercial sales, real estate and visual merchandising. Prior to that, he spent more than 20 years in various leadership roles with Sears Holding Corporation. He has a Bachelor of Arts in History and Health from East Tennessee State University. "I'm thrilled to join the Academy Sports + Outdoors team," says Sam Johnson. "I believe in Academy's everyday low price approach, community and customer focus. On behalf of the more than 20,000 store team members, we look forward to continuing to elevate our game on behalf of customers and local communities for years to come." In his new role, Sam will oversee the day-to-day operations of Academy's more than 225 stores as well as lead the store support team. "I am extremely pleased to welcome Sam to the team," says J.K. Symancyk, Academy Sports + Outdoors President and CEO.

See more info about [topic1]

Top Tips For 2015 On Deciding Upon Significant Elements For Fly Fishing Gaffs

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Portrait Photography Portrait Photography Is All About Capturing The Mood Of A Person, With An Emphasis On The Face And Expression Of A Person.

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Also, To Make The Bait Appear As Natural As Possible, It Is Recommended That You Use Baits Of Different Sizes.

[bongaboi]

Revons Plus Grand, Chapter 18

Revons Plus Grand

Chapter 18:

Ensemble Nous Sommes Invincibles

"Here are your tickets," said Benoit Rousseau to Sadako Shimohara and Georgette Lemare after their shift at the Camp des Loges later that day. "This includes a one night stay at a local chateau of your choice in the city. Go have a great time in the countryside, all right? You've earned it!"

"Thank you so very much," Georgette said. "I want to treasure my new memories of seeing my home town after being away for so long thank you."

"We appreciate your support, Benoit, and we plan to come back on Thursday night," added Sadako. "Aside from Dijon, I've never been outside of Paris or been to Normandy, so I would love to check the place out."

"The package includes a one night stay at the Chateau De Bonnefontaine, complete with breakfast and lunch and a ride back to Gare Paris-Nord, where you can connect to return home from your day trip," said Benoit. "Take plenty of photos and share with the world!"

"We will," said Georgette. "These are memories we will treasure, no matter where we are in this world."

"I have asked Mr. Sami to allow you to pack up at your residence before he drives you to Barenton and drops you there. He will also pick you up at about 7 p.m. the next day. Have fun!"

"Thank you, Benoit!" said Georgette and Sadako, exchanging hugs before the two girls left the Camp des Loges to head to the station.

The sound of the coach's engine, a rich monotonous hum, rang discreetly as the two girls were on the shuttle to the small town in Normandy, the vehicle on a fresh, full tank of gas. In the background, Paris's rivals, Olympique Lyonnais and AS Saint-Etienne, were in action in the Europa League, with the winner of the tournament booking a place in the next UEFA Champions League.

As the bus drove down the N12, through rolling countryside and cows trundling idly down pastures, Georgette let out a sign, stretched her back and arms, then she rested her head on Sadako's lap, clad in a fur coat over a petticoat and a white dress with white boots. Sadako chose to go with a chick sweater, a PSG scarf and jeans to go with alligator boots and a shiny gold watch. As well as some haute aviators. "Sada, clean my ears for me," she said sheepishly with a yawn.

"As you wish, Jose, my dear," she replied, taking a swab and delicately cleaning her ears before disposing the swab into the receptacle. Jose purred like a Persian cat as the cat tracker joined her and rested on her soft, sweet backside. Seeing that, Jose picked up the cat and embraced it like a toy as she snoozed for a bit.

"I left my childhood innocence in Barenton," admitted Jose through her closed eyes and hushed lips redolent with red lipstick. "When I decided to join the 502nd, it was because I felt that I needed to come of age and be a symbol of peace for my nation, because everyone I knew in Barenton believed in me."

"Is that so, Jose..."

"I never did it for selfish reasons, my service to the armed forces. I feel that there is a peaceful, nonaggressive way to resolve conflicts, but if force has to be used, it is because people in power never like to settle issues like gentlemen. That's why sometimes I have to put Alex and Danny in line during their training because their attitude is something that will not help them be men of character."

"You're like a mother to them in a way, Jose. I have noticed that. It's rubbed off on the team. Your nurturing touch helped the boys beat Barcelona, a team I thought was invicible."

"Girls?" asked Mr. Sami.

"Yes?" asked Sadako.

"Since Barenton is a city not accessible by train, you are riding with me. The owner of the chateau is a good mate of mine and is a fan of the club. He allows for stays by invitation only. He also is a good friend of Mr. Nasser and they both arranged this stay for you. So, Ms. Jose, you get to come home in style, the Parisian Way!"

"Wonderful!" said Jose, blushing with a giggle. "I will look forward to meeting with the host."

The coach finally arrived outside a green gate that was open. A footpath going up a hill led to the doors of the chateau, which was decked with flowers in bloom. It was a rustic, three-story structure with a weathered room and old windows. A timeless piece that was spared destruction from the wars, located on 567 Rue de la Liberation, 50720.

"Here we are," said Sadako as the coach headed back on the highway towards Paris, leaving the two girls and their belongings. "This is your home, you're back."

Georgette shed a tear. "Yeah, I'm finally here. In Barenton, where I was born. I feel like I am in heaven again and this is dream I refuse to wake up from."

"The dream is only beginning, let's enjoy it."

"Follow me, Sada!"

Sadako and Jose went up the hill to the door, where a short man of a medium build arrived with a gleefull laugh on his face. "There you are, both of you!" he said, hugging there. "Welcome to Barenton, Normandy! I am the owner of the chateau, Rohan. Sami and Nasser know me very well. Your names?"

"I am Georgette Lemare, and this is my partner Sadako Shimohara," said Jose. "We are employees of Paris Saint-Germain and have been given Thursday off to relax here for a bit before returning to Paris."

"Your face seems somewhat familiar, as if you remind me of someone from my old family archives," Rohan said. "Let's head inside, both of you."

"Mr. Rohan, thank you for having us here," said Sadako. "Georgette has visited this place many times before, she was born here as well before moving to Paris for a change of scenery."

"Really, Ms. Georgette?" Rohan asked.

"Jose is fine. You can call Sadako Sada for short," she replied.

"Simpler the better. Have a seat." There were some sofas, a table, and some modern equipment installed in the chateau.

"I'm surprised how modern this is," said Georgette, turning on the television, where people from L'Equipe were still talking about the big victory on Valentine's Day. "I never thought this chateau would actually have a high definition television!"

"Nasser was kind enough to donate some modern equipment and make this chateau more accessible to travelers and we get a lot of visitors here from France and outside of France," Rohan explained, providing a tray of sandwiches, cold cuts and desserts. "Eat up."

"Mmmm, actual Normandy cheese, I have missed this so much!" exclaimed Georgette, blushing as she enjoyed her meal.

"This is really good!" Sadako said. "It tastes like heaven!"

"Some locals from around town heard you were coming and brought some handmake specialties from these parts," Rohan explained. "You two watching that historic result on replay huh? You work for them so I guess you may have played a part in all this, hmmmm?"

"It was the team's effort but I had faith that they would do their duty to put on a show for those who came to see them," said Sadako, beaming with delight. "It's a dreamlike atmosphere, the environment that football fans in this great country live for. On Tuesday, my boys, Sada's boys, our boys made France proud."

"But we are only getting started," said Sadako. "We want to keep this going on Sunday against Toulouse, and with the new additions to the team and Julian, we have a confident bunch ready to get to work."

"I can tell you this, ladies," said Rohan, sitting with them and eating from the plate while pouring some wine for them, "I did not expect this at all. You may have, though. Did you?"

"I actually thought Barcelona was going to validate all the trophies they had won in the past," said Sadako. "I never thought they would desecrate their honors in such a spectacular way."

"As soon as I saw the tip from Five Thirty Eight, I think it's called, I was confident the boys had a chance to make history," Georgette said. "I believe in my men so much, I guess you can say I did not allow Barcelona to interfere one bit. Both sides listed to my wishes it seems, but really, the home team wanted to show it was skilled at entertained couples in the great city of Paris that believe in the magic of PSG."

"Indeed so," said Rohan, sipping some freshly brewed coffee done with the French press.

Her hands were clasped and one eyes was closed. "But if you don't mind, please pass off my view of the event as speculation, this result makes me extremely happy; I couldn't help it!" Jose appealed.

"You are so humble, I like that from you," Rohan said, triggering a giggle. "My daughter Elise is just like you when she was younger. She was very loyal to me and my wife, before she took off for Canada to work in Montreal. She makes a living developing cutting-edge equipment for female ice hockey players and also works at Brookfield Properties."

"What's her favorite team?"

"The Habs, of course. Le Club de hockey Canadien. Montreal Canadiens, the most accomplished ice hockey team in North America. And she is also married to a employee at the Montreal Forum, and he helps operate the facility and coordinate events. They have two kids, one boy, one girls, four-year fraternal twins. Oh, and they are all PSG supporters."

"Montreal has a very strong PSG fan club, huh?"

"Yep," said Rohan. He showed Sadako and Jose some photos of his daughter and son-in-law. "This is Elise and her husband Gaston at a function at the Forum, which used to host Montreal Canadiens home games before moving to Centre Bell. They love their hockey and they love their poutine. And speaking on which, I made some." Rohan went to a table and brought three big bowls of freshly cooked pommes frites topped with curds, turkey gravy and local cheeses from the stores up the road. "Normandy-style poutine, based on my son-in-law's recipe."

"This is delicious!" exclaimed Sadako. "Mmmmmm!"

"Don't rush eating it all, Sada," said Georgette, indulging in the rich, savory goodness of Quebec's gift to gastronomy and the thing that truly matter before washing it down with a sip of cabernet. "Food is meant to be enjoyed. Slow down, we are not in the city today. Today, you are on my pace, got it?"

"Yes, dear." And so she took her time to enjoy every decadent morsel, the savory zip of the gravy taking her on a magic carpet ride without leaving the chateau. And they saw Angel Di Maria paint the corners, Julian Draxler rifle the left side, Edinson Cavani blast the right side in a guns blazing display that made Barcelona worse than Montpellier, Toulouse and Guingamp combined in terms of effectiveness against Le PSG.

"Is she like this all the time to you?" asked Rohan to Sadako.

"I sometimes think things too much or rush to making decisions that it's so easy for Jose to expose me. But it's because she loves me and I appreciate that."

"Paris is the City of Love, and love does win when it can do no wrong. I'm sure you two had a nice time in bed afterwards."

"I think a win like that made us very sleepy," admitted Georgette. "But it's a very nice sleep, and when our sleep cycles are on form, we can get a lot done. Right, Sada?"

"A lot done, baby, you know it, heheh," purred Sadako as the two girls clinked glasses. "There will be blood, there will be fire, there will be hearts full of burning desire! France, France, France!"

"Are you visiting, Ms. Sadako?" asked Rohan.

"Work visa. I am from Hiroshima, Japan."

"Aha...so, now that I am familiar with you guys, you will have the rest of the evening to take a look around and the morning and afternoon tomorrow. Perspective: the important ingredient in appeciating the work you do. I am confident that the team will make it business as usual on Sunday night. Enjoying your visit here?"

"It's everything I envisioned and realized before arriving on French soil, Mr. Rohan. I have integrated well and am very familiar with how normal life is in Paris. It's similar the type of pace I am accustomed to back home but with more style and sophistication."

"Don't ever forget the memories you cherish here when you return home. The moment you leave, you will realize on then, that this was not a dream you lived through. And you did make a difference in helping those in the part of the world that are on your side. Enjoy your time here, and here your keys," said Rohan, handing the girls the chateau keys so they would return to rest.

"Thank you, Mr. Rohan," said Georgette. Over the next several hours montage of scenes of the girls visiting every corner of Barenton was displayed on the other side, a convoy of moving pictures that indicated that Barenton in 1944 was not much different than Barenton of 2017, only with changes in technology and agricultural processing that accelerated production of the finest goods in this part of Normandy.

That montage conveyed by the cat tracker culminated with the two girls sleeping with their hands held on the coach, driven by a reflective Mr. Sami, on the way back to Paris, eastbound, where more work would have to be done by the men and women of Paris Saint-Germain Football Club, an organization that refused to sit on its laurels and focus on improvement towards another anticipated demonstration of its football mastery to another enthusiastic turnout at Le Parc.

For Georgette and Sadako, they believed that an association football match is similar to attending a concert or a meal at a Michelin Star restaurant. The presenters and protagonists are expected to put on a performance that satisfies the wishes of its patrons by exhibiting the collective football mastery that they have rehearsed for at the Camp des Loges. Every touch, pass, dribble, shot, save, dispossession would be scrutinized by pundits, by experts, by journalists who have their own agendas that are in turn scrutinized by the public, who in turn issue either rebuttals or support.

Any win by a team of Paris Saint-Germain's pedigree and caliber indicated that their knowledge of the game, their intensity displayed, their individual skills and managerial strategy was of an acceptable quality that would sustain their belief in being patrons of the most accomplished organization in French club football to date. Three weeks remained on the loan contracts of Alex Hunter and Danny Williams. Following the return leg against Barcelona, the two young men would return to their clubs across La Manche, the Channel, to assist with their ongoing campaigns. The club was clicking, and the wheels were in motion.

At the same time, Rohan believed that Georgette's appearance was reminiscent of a similar vision evoked by his parents, as if she had come back from leaving the world for a better place. He decided not to speculate at all and saw the two off. Young women like Georgette and Sadako did not come around quite often, especially when they did do some fixer-upping of the house after their jaunt through town.

"Intensity is the essence of focus," Tomoko Anabuki said to Yoshika Miyafuji as her protege circulated the blood flow on every part of her body, yielding pleasurable sensations that resonated in effervescent volume on the other side, back at her quarters. "I like Kanno's spirit and demeanor. With Sasha returning from her assignment to assist with drills, the spirit of this team is fully restored. It's a very positive, lively environment."

"Indeed it is," said Yoshika. "But I want to ask you this question."

"Go on."

"Do you say this only because I am massaging you the way I want to, or is this a genuine opinion?"

"A very brave question, the pun notwithstanding." A few robust exhales as her bust was fondled. "It is always genuine because I envision myself as an honest woman in and out of serving our people. Kanno herself says that she feels like she is walking on a cloud when I oversee her body of work. I reminded her as she took down a target, do not be a hero and go the extra mile to impress your team. Do what you can and prevail, but do not pay the price for being selfless because your energy is needed to overcome the path that lies ahead."

"Well said, Tomoko."

"Your life does not depend on training and drills alone in this business. Your life depends on using what you learned, the dynamics of the rules of engagement, in training and drills to win battles and wars. It parallels the concepts of sports and any task that requires work. It is something I have learned very well in all my years of flying the flag for the Silent Witches."

"Tomoko..."

"I am in my 20's. I am now teaching those who will follow. Major Sakamoto, a peer of mine who you know as your direct senior, is also doing the same. I don't do as much fighting as I used to but I know that I did my part to keep the morale of the team going heading into the upcoming campaign later on. The time will come when I have to finally step down, but I am not ready to call time just yet. Not with you here with me."

"Indeed. This is the mindset and frame of mind I always expected out of you. It's something that inspired me to be just like you," said Yoshika. "That's why when I...pleasure you like this, I remember it every time because we don't see each other very often. So we need to value this and our service to helping the 502nd while those are on the other side of the timeline. As long as we do our job and we enjoy our job as Witches, together, we are invincible."

"Yoshika."

"Yes?"

Tomoko smiled, the light shining on her nude, stimulated frame, an adult with curves and a build designed for the next chapter in a long life outside of the military. "I couldn't agree with you more. And more history will be made."

END CHAPTER 18

[junker-town]

Everything you need to know about the USA women’s hockey team boycott

The issue isn’t just about pay.

You might have heard that the United States women’s hockey team is boycotting the upcoming World Championship and grappling with USA Hockey about fair pay and support.

The saga is ongoing and getting more dramatic (and worse for USA Hockey) by the day. You might be wondering what all of this is about.

Let us explain.

Oh, and as always: keep up with The Ice Garden and their comprehensive timeline as this unfolds.

What started it? Why now?

Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for the USOC

According to the statement by national team players, USA Hockey and players had negotiated for a year without much progress.

“For us, we’ve gone back and forth with USA Hockey the last 12-16 months,” USA captain Meghan Duggan told Sportsnet after the boycott began. “We decided after a long period that we wanted to get some lawyers and really start fighting for some equitable support and wages for women in our sport.”

As for the timing, the World Championship begins in Michigan on March 30. Not a great look for USA Hockey if they, the hosts, have to field a sub-par team due to boycotts.

What, exactly, does the women’s team want?

Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images for the USOC

The players want a four-year contract with USA Hockey as opposed to the typical one-year contracts players usually sign. In essence, women’s players would be paid every year, even in non-Olympic years. This is similar to how Canadian players are paid. Unlike Team Canada, however, the US Olympic Committee is responsible for USA Hockey funding, not the federal government.

Julie Foudy wrote that the USA women’s soccer team signed a similar deal in 2000 that resulted in a decade of tremendous growth for the sport.

USA Hockey is opposed to the idea, stating their “role is not to employ athletes and we will not do so.

It’s important to note the women aren’t asking for equal pay with the men’s players. They’re asking for living wages every year in between Olympics.

But the boycott’s goals extend beyond pay.

According attorney Dee Spagnuolo, players want 3 main things 1)Compensation 2)Increased programming 3)Support for marketing/PR @TheIceGarden

— Erica L. Ayala (@elindsay08) March 15, 2017

Spagnuolo, by the way, represented U.S. women’s soccer in 2000.

USA Hockey invested $3.5 million annually in boy’s programs through their national development team program. A women’s team equivalent does not exist. The USWNT is fighting for more commitment and dollars spent in girls’ development programs, whether that takes the form of a USWNTDP or not.

Marketing plays a big part of that as well, and the women would like to see more of that. Which makes Monday’s news (that USA Hockey turned down a high-dollar rematch with Team Canada without consulting players) even more worrisome. Imagine if they had done that with the men.

ThinkProgress summed up their support requests quite nicely:

They want to travel the way the men’s team does (which is, well, not in coach). They want USA Hockey to pay for them to bring a guest to big tournaments like they do for the men. They want more equipment — right now, many players have to ration three $250 sticks and one pair of $600 skates throughout the year. When college players are selected as goalies for the USWNT, they often aren’t even given Team USA gear at first — they have to play tournaments with their college gear. Once again, these are the best hockey players in the world who have to do this.

What’s USA Hockey’s stance?

Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

USA Hockey’s initial statement said they’re disappointed with the boycott but “committed to continuing dialogue.” They also claimed they’re implementing additional support for the Olympic years, including “stipends and incentives for medals that could result in each player receiving nearly $85,000 in cash over the Olympic training and performance period.”

The USWNT’s lawyers disputed that claim mere hours later.

USA Hockey has already begun approaching potential replacements, with poor results. The movement is spreading, and USA Hockey is getting desperate.

Source close to the situation indicates that USAH started looking for "scabs" today. NWHL, Whitecaps, college players contacted. #USWNT

— Hannah Bevis (@Hannah_Bevis1) March 23, 2017

U18 has vowed to boycott Worlds, as has the NWHL. USWNT reached out to any USA team player from last year's pipeline.

— Hannah Bevis (@Hannah_Bevis1) March 23, 2017

Look at the NCAA women's hockey players refusing to scab on the US Women's Hockey, choosing solidarity over spotlight. This is how we win. http://pic.twitter.com/cY3gHMpR5W

— Dave Zirin (@EdgeofSports) March 24, 2017

Got word now that USA hockey reached out to a player on a U16 (!!!!!) team to play in World Championships.

— Sarah Spain (@SarahSpain) March 26, 2017

ThinkProgress spoke to a former USWNT agent for his take on the situation, and he offered illuminating perspective on USA Hockey’s current opinion of women’s hockey.

Brant Feldman — an agent for many USWNT hockey players over the years, including current stars Meghan Duggan, Lamoureux-Davidson, and her twin sister, Monique Lamoureux-Morano — told ThinkProgress that he was part of negotiations with USA Hockey prior to the 2006, 2010, and 2014 Olympic cycles. He said USA Hockey never showed any willingness to budge on the contract that paid its players $6,000 over a four-year period.

According to Feldman, the organization told him during negotiations in 2009 that “women’s hockey is a money loser” for USA Hockey. That was the end of the conversation.

Whether that’s still true is unclear, but the fact negotiations fell apart to this current situation helps that anecdote hold water.

So what have recent negotiations looked like?

Reports were that the two sides met a week ago and players were encouraged by the direction of negotiations. Then USA Hockey made their offer on March 23 and players unanimously shot it down.

"USA Hockey ... made a disappointing offer that didn't reflect the progress of the negotiations." #BeBoldForChange http://pic.twitter.com/PGP9n85pBH

— Erica L. Ayala (@elindsay08) March 24, 2017

2/2... they (the USA Hockey Pl's) were incredibly surprised & disappointed by USA Hockey's offer.

— Julie Foudy (@JulieFoudy) March 24, 2017

What does the USWNT’s support look like?

Photo by Anna Sergeeva/Getty Images

Over the weekend, support started pouring in from all sides of the sports world.

The #MLBPA continues to encourage ALL women hockey players to stand united in support of #USWNHT efforts to secure improved conditions... https://t.co/aAuTg42447

— #MLBPA (@MLB_PLAYERS) March 24, 2017

Statement on Women's US National Hockey Team matter below#BeBoldForChange http://pic.twitter.com/TWbRoTtOnP

— NHLPA (@NHLPA) March 24, 2017

Of course, they have the NFLPA's support in daring to withhold their services until a fair agreement is reached. #USWNHT

— DeMaurice Smith (@DeSmithNFLPA) March 25, 2017

These women understand inequality when they see it and are expressing their right to be treated fairly as athletes and workers. #USWNHT

— DeMaurice Smith (@DeSmithNFLPA) March 25, 2017

Here it is. Now the @TheNBPA has issued a statement in support of the US women hockey team. Boom. #BeBoldForChange https://t.co/9yENF99EdH

— Dave Zirin (@EdgeofSports) March 26, 2017

Dave Hakstol deserves praise for his public support of the US women’s national team https://t.co/pOPzDSMwkK

— Broad Street Hockey (@BroadStHockey) March 27, 2017

Our hockey family stands proud and united with the women of the US National Team who are fighting for equitable support. #BeBoldForChange

— Aaron Dell (@ADell32) March 26, 2017

Our hockey family stands proud and united with the women of the US National Team who are fighting for a better future. #BeBoldForChange

— Zach Bogosian (@BogosianZach) March 25, 2017

And on Monday, 14 Democratic senators (led by Elizabeth Warren) publicly encouraged USA Hockey to do the right thing.

The IIHF Women’s World Championship begins on March 31.