Quote of the Day
"It's not just an endorsement deal. We feed off each other.”
-- Cavaliers F LeBron James, on his marketing relationship with Nike (PLAIN DEALER, 12/23).
Top Stories
Happy Holidays?
With the holiday season upon us, it is clear the Lions could use some good tidings. The war of words between Lions coach Rod Marinelli and Detroit News columnist Rob Parker is usurping the team’s 0-15 record as the topic du jour in the Motor City, as Marinelli refuses to accept Parker's apology for invoking his daughter in a news conference. Parker claims he was trying to lighten the moment when he asked Marinelli, whose daughter is married to Lions coach Joe Barry, if he wishes she had married a better defensive coordinator. Pundits are piling on Parker, including his editor, who calls him out for his "inappropriate and unprofessional" question. But some observers point out the Lions have "bigger concerns" than a joke gone awry, as Owner William Clay Ford Sr. continues to take heat for the state of the franchise, including the decision to keep top execs Tom Lewand and Martin Mayhew on board. YAHOO SPORTS’ Dan Wetzel goes so far as to suggest Roger Goodell should step in and rectify the mismanagement.
Split Formation
NBC disputes report eight companies will share one 30-second Super Bowl spot; FedEx not airing ad for first time in 12 years.
Pitt & The Pendulum
Penguins, in nod to loyal fans and tough economy, decide against PSLs for new arena.
Sweet (Week) 16
NBC earns healthy 11.5 final rating for Sunday's robust Panthers-Giants game.
What's On Second?
MLB partners A-B, MasterCard opt against sponsoring '09 World Baseball Classic.
Cleveland Chalks
LeBron ringing in Christmas at the Q with new Nikes inspired by his pregame ritual.
Back In Black
In a claim sure to make Gary Bettman smile, Jeff Vanderbeek expects Devils to profit this year.
This, Bud, Is For You
Yankees owe MLB $26.9M in luxury tax, highest since '05, while Tigers owe $1.3M.
