Cavs guard follows tweet by saying trade talk is 'nerve-wracking and frustrating.'

APMo Williams tells The Plain Dealer's Brian Windhorst that he wants to stay with the Cavaliers.

Mo Williams says that Cleveland has become his home and he does not want to leave.

With trade rumors swirling around him over the last several weeks, the Cavaliers guard got proactive today via his Twitter feed by requesting not to be traded to his more than 54,000 followers.

"I'm not ready to go," Williams wrote. "I'm begging. My work ain't done yet. I'm on both knees."

Multiple league executives have said that the Cavs have had some trade talks with Williams but they are not looking to trade him, just to get a feel for his market if they decide to make a move.

In an interview with The Plain Dealer from his San Diego-area offseason home this afternoon, Williams said the trade rumors have been giving him some stress.

"It has been bothering me, it is a little nerve-wracking and frustrating," Williams said. "Especially from the simple fact that you don't want to leave. But there's a lot of things going with the team, and you never know what is going to happen. It is something you can't control and it is part of the business."

Williams said that he has not been in contact with the organization, but that he's gotten a steady stream of calls as rumors have spread. Recently he's been linked to the Portland Trail Blazers and Sacramento Kings.

But league sources indicate the Cavs aren't close to any sort of deal for Williams and instead have been much more active in Delonte West trade talks. Still, Williams is somewhat unsettled.

"I have my heart in the city and the organization and I don't want to leave," Williams said. "You can look at it from both sides. Other teams want you, so that is good, but I love Cleveland."

Williams averaged 15.8 points and 5.3 assists during his second season with the Cavs this year. His shots were reduced by the arrival of Shaquille O'Neal and Antawn Jamison, but he said that he believes he had a good season. He was inconsistent in the playoffs, however, for a second consecutive season.

"You look back and you think you could have done more and you wish you could have done better," Williams said. "But we're competing for a championship, we're getting better and I want to be a part of this thing for the long run."

The question is whether Williams' friend and teammate, LeBron James, will be there for the long run. Whether or not James does re-sign with the Cavs may impact Williams' future as the Cavs go forward with their superstar or not.

But Williams said he hasn't talked to James about the big decision.

"We all feel confident that Cleveland is his primary destination and that he's going to stay with us," Williams said. "We're all crossing our fingers that he'll come out on July 1 and say he's coming back and sign on the dotted line as soon as possible and not prolong it."

Defending Wimbledon champion Roger Federer survived another early-round scare with a four-set victory over qualifier Ilija Bozoljac. He moves to the third round of England's famous tennis tournament.

View full sizeAnja Niedringhaus,
Associated PressRoger Federer, who survived a first-round scare, is all smiles after defeating Ilija Bozoljac on Wednesday to advance to the third round in Wimbledon, England.

Wimbledon, England -- Roger Federer walked off the court with a smile Wednesday, relieved to survive another tense early-round match at Wimbledon.

In the meantime, the marathon match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut is now approaching 10 hours old.

A New York Times blog is covering the epic match, now the longest in tennis history. As of 3:47 p.m. Eastern time, the match that began Tuesday and was suspended by darkness was at 56-55 in the fifth set.

The six-time champion advanced to the third round by beating qualifier Ilija Bozoljac 6-3, 6-7 (4), 6-4, 7-6 (5).

Federer had a slightly easier time than in his opening match, when he overcame a two-set deficit. But he had trouble putting Bozoljac away, converting only three of 13 break-point chances.

"I wish they were straight sets, obviously," Federer said. "But as long as you're moving on, especially at Wimbledon, I'm a happy man."

Federer was never broken, won 75 percent of his service points and committed only 13 unforced errors. He won the final three points of the match, one with a bold drop shot when trailing 5-4 in the tiebreaker.

Three-time Wimbledon runner-up Andy Roddick dug out of an early hole and beat Michael Llodra 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, 7-6 (2). Seeded fifth, Roddick began playing serve and volley more as the match progressed, and he won 34 points at the net.

"That was as tough of a second round as there is," Roddick said. "I had to make an adjustment. Off of my serve, I had to start coming in and serving and volleying behind it."

Playing the first match on sun-splashed Centre Court, Roddick hit 25 aces, lost serve just once and committed only 11 unforced errors.

No. 3-seeded Novak Djokovic beat American Taylor Dent 7-6 (5), 6-1, 6-4. Dent served at up to 148 mph but lost 25 of 54 points at the net.

Five-time Wimbledon champion Venus Williams lost only 11 points on her serve and beat Ekaterina Makarova 6-0, 6-4. Williams is seeded second behind her sister Serena, who won when they met in last year's final.

Justine Henin was twice broken serving for the victory, then regrouped and beat Kristina Barrois 6-3, 7-5. Fellow Belgian Kim Clijsters defeated Karolina Sprem 6-3, 6-2.

Clijsters and Henin, both back at Wimbledon after coming out of retirement, could meet in the fourth round.

Umbrellas were out -- not for rain, but as shields from the sun on the hottest day of the tournament. Williams rubbed a cold water bottle across her face during a changeover.

With temperatures heading into the low 80s, the All England Club's public address announcer advised spectators to make sure they had skin protection, head wear and water.

"All are vital necessities," he said.

No. 15 Lleyton Hewitt, the 2002 champion, advanced when Evgeny Korolev retired trailing 6-4, 6-4, 3-0. American Mardy Fish had 30 aces but went 0-for-9 on break-point chances in the final set and lost to Florian Mayer 6-7 (2), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.

No. 13 Shahar Peer lost to Angelique Kerber 3-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Defending champion Federer was three points from defeat Monday against Alejandro Falla, and he was two points from being forced to a fifth set against Bozoljac, a Serb ranked 152nd.

"People maybe got a little bit spoiled and thought the early rounds are not even a competition any more," Federer said. "It just shows how deep the men's game is at the moment. People think they're all scared of me. I always think they actually play better matches against me because they have nothing to lose."

Federer seeks a record-tying seventh men's Wimbledon title. He has reached the final each of the past seven years.

Roddick won his only Grand Slam title with an overpowering serve and forehand at the 2003 U.S. Open, and he's now a much different player, using a wide variety of shots. He showed the broad repertoire down the stretch against Llodra, feathering a slice forehand for one key winner, hitting a loopy topspin forehand for another and dropping a pinpoint lob in the corner to take the lead for good in the tiebreaker.

Roddick won 34 points at the net and converted all three of his break-point chances. He also erased two break points in the opening game of the second set, a pivotal moment in the match.

He broke for the first time at love in the final game of the second set to even the match, then won five consecutive games in the third set to take control against Llodra.

"He was playing flawless tennis," Roddick said. "He played an almost perfect first set. It took some of my best stuff today to get through that. I thought I played really well. I think I had to."

Henin built leads of 4-1 in the first set and 5-1 in the second. Serving for the win at 5-2, she double-faulted on consecutive points and lost the game, then lost serve again for 5-all.

But Henin broke back and served out the victory at love. She exhaled in relief after winning the final point against the German.

"I was sometimes too much in a rush to finish, probably because she gave up at that time and my intensity really dropped down," Henin said. "I had a good reaction to the situation."

Henin won 21 points at the net and hit 38 winners. The seven-time Grand Slam champion seeks the only major title she has yet to win.

"That remains a dream for me," she said. "I just see myself as an outsider this year, because I don't know how I'm going to deal at a very high level. So it's very hard to predict what could happen, but I really don't see myself as one of the favorites."

Seeded 17th, the Belgian is playing at Wimbledon for the first time since 2007. She retired in 2008 and rejoined the tour in January.

Clijsters committed just 13 unforced errors against Sprem and erased the only three break points she faced. The No. 8-seeded Clijsters, who returned from retirement last year, is playing at Wimbledon for the first time since 2006.

She has reached at least the third round at her past 16 Grand Slam tournaments.

Mo Williams says he wants to stay in Cleveland. Of course, Cavaliers fans have their minds on another player hoping he'll say the same thing.

View full sizeScott Shaw | The Plain DealerMo Williams doesn't want to leave Cleveland. Your move, LeBron.

James, ranked the NBA's top free agent, and other FA's are factors in teams' draft plans. One report details the financial impact James could have on a city.

Joshua Gunter, The Plain Dealer LeBron James and other star free agents likely affect the draft plans of several teams.

Cleveland, Ohio -- The NBA draft will be held on Thursday, and many of the league's teams will base their strategies on the imminent free agency of players such as LeBron James of the Cavaliers, Dwyane Wade of the Heat, Chris Bosh of the Raptors and Amare' Stoudemire of the Suns.

What to do to make a team more attractive to a star free agent?

Keep track of The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com's coverage of the Cavaliers and LeBron James here and here.

Chris Mannix lists the top 40 free agents for Sports Illustrated's SI.com. First, of course, is James. Mannix writes:

The two-time MVP is at the top of every team's wish list, with the unique ability to turn middling franchises (such as the Knicks and Clippers) into instant contenders. Few players have ever possessed the blend of size, skill and speed of James, who still could be a few years away from reaching his prime. Wooing James will be complicated -- a hefty contract and perhaps signing some of his free-agent buddies to fill out the roster are among the requisites -- but if a team has the money, it will make the sacrifices.

(The rankings list Cavaliers centers Shaquille O'Neal and Zydrunas Ilgauskas at Nos. 18 and 27, respectively)

Money man

The Chicago Bulls are among the teams that hope to sign James. Fred Mitchell writes for ChicagoBreakingSports.com about the financial impact James could have on the Windy City:

According to one reputable source, if James played for the Bulls, local TV ratings would increase roughly 33 percent, which would reach an incremental 30,000 - 40,000 households per game in Chicago. Additionally, the Bulls TV exposure would jump from the 29 regular-season nationally televised games last season to 40 nationally televised games with James. Considering regular-season NBA games generally reach 1 - 2.5 million households per game, another 11 nationally televised games can reach an additional 11 - 27.5 million households over the course of the season.

The additional national TV coverage will increase exposure and expand the local fan base in Chicago, which currently sits at about 3.2 million people, as well as the national fan base, not to mention the international fan base where the Bulls, even without James, are still the most recognizable NBA team brand.

What's happening

Sports Illustrated's SI.com uses a photo gallery to detail a "LeBron Watch Since End of Season." The photos are accompanied by text, such as:

Former Knicks big man and LeBron mentor Charles Oakley says his protege should steer clear of New York. In an interview with WQAM Radio in Miami, the always entertaining Oakley threw Patrick Ewing, Pat Riley and the Knicks under the bus before saying he "can't tell [LeBron] to go to New York. New York treated me bad.

Talker says

There will no doubt be a lot of "he says" over the next couple weeks. In that category is a tweet from former NBA guard and current ESPN analyst Jalen Rose.

Rose's tweet:

#NBA BREAKING NEWS (research/sources say) It is almost CERTAIN that LEBRON JAMES WILL NOT be returning to the CAVS! (Bulls/Heat/Clips).  

 

 

 

 

Byron Scott's outlook on Cavaliers may hinge on what Jackson decides to do.

View full sizeMichael Goulding,
Orange County RegisterLakers coach Phil Jackson told reporters he's leaning towards retirement after winning his second consecutive championship with the team. But he also admits being intrigued with the idea of being a "threepeat" winner once again; Jackson and Michael Jordan won three consecutive titles with the Chicago Bulls.

The 11-time NBA champion said today he'll get the results of another battery of medical tests before deciding whether to end his matchless coaching career, but Jackson sounds increasingly likely to head for retirement after the Lakers' second straight title.

"Some of it's about health," Jackson said. "Some of it is just the way I feel right now. It's hard not to think about coming back ... but it's what I feel like right now."

After going through exit interviews with his players at the Lakers' training complex, the 64-year-old Jackson gave the strongest indication yet that he's ready to walk away.

Jackson's decision may have some direct impact on the vacant coaching position for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Byron Scott, who played for the Lakers, has made no secret of his desires to coach his old team. But he is also a strong candidate to take over in Cleveland for the fired Mike Brown. Jackson also has been mentioned on many a wish list as a possible coach for the Cavs. He is also highly respected by Cavs forward LeBron James, who will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1.

Jackson is the winningest playoff coach in NBA history, with 225 postseason victories and two more titles than Boston's Red Auerbach. His Lakers beat the Boston Celtics in a seven-game NBA finals last week for the franchise's 16th championship.

The Lakers uniformly said they want Jackson back next season, with Kobe Bryant saying the club would be "drastically different" without Jackson's steady, cerebral presence on the sideline.

Jackson said his inclination to leave the Lakers isn't about money or dissatisfaction with the organization. He mostly wants to get away from the grind of NBA travel and the nine-month season, particularly after three straight trips to the finals.

Yet Jackson also acknowledges he's intrigued by the possibility of going for a third consecutive championship for the fourth time in his career.

"My intention was that if we won the second time, to go for a threepeat would be natural," Jackson said. "It would be tough not to go for another championship in that threepeat realm, which is ridiculous. That's one of those things that's sitting out there that's still a fly in the ointment."

Jackson won three straight titles with Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls from 1991-93 and again from 1996-98.

After a year off, he immediately led the underachieving Lakers to three straight championships from 2000-02, meshing the egos and talents of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal to re-establish the Lakers as an NBA power.

Los Angeles also made the NBA finals in 2004, but lost to Detroit. Jackson then took a year off before returning to the Lakers' bench.

Los Angeles has reached the last three NBA finals, losing to Boston in 2008 before routing the Orlando Magic last year for their 15th title. The Lakers followed it up this season with a gritty seven-game victory over the Celtics.

John Furlong shot a second-round 71 and is two shots ahead of former state high school champion Mac McLaughlin.

AURORA, Ohio -- Getting to 1-under after 36 holes can be accomplished in a number of ways.

But John Furlong agrees he took an unusual route during the first two rounds of the 80th Northeast Ohio Amateur, which reached the halfway point on Wednesday at Aurora Golf Club. The final 36 holes will be played Monday at the Country Club of Hudson, and if Furlong's final 36 holes are anything like the first 36, it should be one heck of a finish in the Championship Division.

Furlong, a member of the Kent State golf team, shot a second-round 71 and his 36-hole total of 1 under 141 was two shots better than former state high school champion Mac McLaughlin, whose 2-under 69 was the best of the day.

Elyria's Norton Brick extended his lead to four shots in the Senior Division with a second-round 72 for a two-day total of 142. The Seniors will only play 18 holes on Monday.

Furlong, of Medina, has had an adventurous two days. His rounds consisted of 17 pars, nine birdies, one eagle, eight bogeys and one double bogey. That's a lot of birdies.

"Especially for me," said Furlong, who will be a senior. "I'm usually more of a par player. I normally don't make a lot of birdies. I can't complain."

Furlong had 29 putts at Aurora, including a pair of long-range bombs for birdie on the par-4 10th and 14th holes.

"My putter saved me," he said. "I'm usually around 32 to 34 putts a round, so 29 is good."

McLaughin, from Shaker Heights and a senior at Virginia, pulled into sole possession of second place with his 69, which tied first-round leader Rob Schustrich for low round of the tournament. Schustrich, from Windham, is three shots back, while Concord's Brad Steven, Uniontown's Ross Beal and Highland Heights' Zach Glassman are tied for fourth at 145.

Brick is attempting to become the first player to win both the Championship Division -- which he did in 2004 -- and the Senior Division, which is being held for the 13th time. He holds a four-shot lead over Solon's Jeff Knox (72-74), and seven over Hudson's Mike Cassell (74-75).

It's not like Cleveland has never been the butt of jokes, but now the jokes have a James twist.

Stephen Savoia / Associated PressComedian Denis Leary provided some humor with a LeBron James bite during his performance Tuesday night at Playhouse Square.

(Chasing down rumors about LeBron James' basketball future could be a full-time job. Now it's my full-time job. Just call me The Rumor Monger. Every day we'll compile a list of the rumors we're hearing about James and his next contract. Just remember these are just rumors, not necessarily facts. It's going to be a long and rough ride, Cavs fans. Buckle up. -- Mary Schmitt Boyer)

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- It's not like Cleveland has never been the butt of jokes, but now the jokes have a James twist.

During Tuesday night's "Rescue Me" comedy tour at the State Theater, comedian Lenny Clarke pleaded "Don't let LeBron leave! Get a lawyer to find some language in his contract and say, 'Here, see!? You can't leave.'" Headliner Denis Leary, star of the FX series "Rescue Me," tweaked the crowd for a laugh saying, "You'll remember tonight's show. You'll remember this as the time you went to see that guy ... a week before LeBron James left."

David Letterman even made a reference to James during his opening monologue on Tuesday night:

"The New York Knicks are making big changes to start a new era with LeBron James. We've got the money to bring in the best supporting players to bring home the title. We're undertaking an $850 million renovation to the World's Greatest Arena. And we're changing our name to the Lakers.

"New York Lakers basketball. ... Catch the fever!"

• I know this is the James rumor mill, but they may have to start a Chris Paul version in New Orleans. Prompted by stories that a team with Paul has a better chance of signing James, the Hornets tried -- unconvincingly -- to convince people they weren't listening to offers for their All-Star point guard.

Owner George Shinn issued a statement that said, "Chris Paul is the cornerstone of our franchise and brings us unequaled support on and off the court. We will continue to build around Chris Paul, and we want to see him in a Hornets uniform for the remainder of his career. We have an exciting future, and with the leadership of our new head coach and players like Chris Paul, we know the best is yet to come. We plan to take advantage of any opportunities to improve our team."

New coach Monty Williams told the New Orleans Times Picayune, "Chris was the thing that excited me about this job. So many people are begging for a point guard. We're talking about the best one in the game. I couldn't envision being here without Chris."

Hornets General Manager Jeff Bower said he wouldn't comment on rumors, then told the Times Picayune, "We have the duty to listen and have dialogue with teams about all of our players. I've also always said we have a very high value and opinion of what Chris provides for us. Things really haven't changed.

"I can guarantee that we are very much aware of Chris's ability, skills, talents and what he provides to our community, and what he provides to our basketball team. We don't take that lightly. The ability to have a player like that is something that every team understands and appreciates."

Writes Jimmy Smith of the Times Picayune, "These days, anyone with an e-mail account and an iPhone can post a blurb on the Internet -- as someone did on Twitter a day or so ago saying the Hornets were jumping into the chase and had become the favorites to lure back-to-back league MVP James away from the Cleveland Cavaliers."

Meanwhile, Paul tells ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard, "My first choice is to be in New Orleans. I just want to make sure we're committed to winning. If we're not committed to winning and trying to get better so we can contend with the Lakers, the Celtics and all these other top teams, then I'm open to being traded.

"I'm fine with staying in New Orleans, but I want to make sure we're committed to winning. I don't want to rebuild. I want to win now. It's nothing personal against the city. I love that city. But my biggest thing is winning.

"I'm friends with D-Wade, LeBron, Chris Bosh, Joe Johnson and all these other free agents," said Paul, who's in London promoting his Brand Jordan sneakers. "I'm watching them try to figure out what they're going to do to put themselves in a position to win championships. I'd love to be a part of that stuff."

Broussard reports that the feeling around the league is that if Shinn can't sell the team, the Hornets will move Paul to save money.

• From Tuesday's Chicago Tribune story on new coach Tom Thibodeau: "When asked about free agency in general (and LeBron James in particular), Thibodeau noted that it would be against league rules to comment on specific players, but said, 'I can't imagine why any free agent wouldn't seriously consider this team.'"

• From Jalen Rose, via Twitter on Tuesday: "#NBA breaking news (research/sources say) It is almost certain that LeBron James will not be returning to the Cavs! (Bulls/Heat/Clips)"

He also tweeted, "as of 2day the Bulls have the best chance of landing LBJ ... Miami would need to make more roster moves ... Clips have a punchers chance!''

• New odds on James' decision from sbrforum.com. Cavs, 1-to-2 favorites, followed by Bulls 5-to-2, Knicks 7-to-2, Nets 5-to-1, Heat 9-to-2 and Clippers 15-to-1.

The far reaches of a Canadian earthquake weren't the only tremors that rattled their way to Cleveland Wednesday.

UPDATED: 9:11 p.m.

AP photoByron Scott's strong interest in the Lakers head coaching position may be rewarded, should current head coach Phil Jackson follow through on Wednesday's comments about retirement.

• Mo Williams says he doesn't want to leave Cleveland
• Comics have a laugh at James' status: LeBron rumor mill

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The far reaches of a Canadian earthquake weren't the only tremors that rattled their way to Cleveland Wednesday.

In his season-ending interview with Los Angeles media, Lakers coach Phil Jackson surprised many by saying that he was "leaning toward retiring" after winning his 11th NBA title last week.

Though Jackson needed to be checked out by doctors and get clearance, it was generally assumed that he'd want to return for at least one more season and attempt a historic fourth three-peat, even though his contract was up.

Jackson said that he hadn't totally made up his mind, but his words will directly affect the Cavaliers' coaching search.

While the team has a handful of candidates they're still considering, Byron Scott is the clear front-runner. Because of his history of working with stars and numerous appearances in the Finals as a player and coach, Scott is believed to be the team's preference. It is well known that he has dreamed of being the Lakers coach for more than a decade.

Now Scott could be just be days away from taking over for Jackson. The Cavs, even if they've made an aggressive offer, are likely going to have to wait and see how it plays out.

Scott has a strong relationship with Kobe Bryant, dating to when they teammates in Bryant's rookie season and Scott's final season in 1996-97. Scott also enjoys a long and deep relationship with Lakers owner Jerry Buss and part owner and former teammate Magic Johnson.

Those relationships, his Lakers' title rings and his offensive style that may return the Lakers to their uptempo "Showtime" ways could give Scott the edge over Jackson's preferred successor, who is believed to be current assistant Brian Shaw.

It seems unlikely that Scott, who makes his off-season home in Los Angeles, would make any decision about his future until the Lakers' job is settled. Jackson said that he'd come to a decision next week.

Jackson, who is 64, was bothered by kidney stones and a sore knee this season. For months there have been reports that Buss wants Jackson to take a large cut from the $12 million he earned in the last year of his contract. But Jackson said Wednesday that his decision will be more about health than money.

"Some of it's about health," Jackson said.

"That's the way I feel right now. I've had vacillating feelings about it. I have to sit on it and do the right thing for myself. I wouldn't say that I'm 95 percent or 50 percent sure. This is what I feel right now. It's certainly not about money. It's not the issue."

Finally, a World Cup soccer team to unite all Americans. The spoiled, vanquished French -- Bud Shaw writes in his Spin column.

Francois Mori / Associated PressFrance's Franck Ribery was undressed and his team's unhappy state was exposed after Tuesday's loss to South Africa and quick exit from the World Cup. Which isn't a bad thing, says Bud Shaw.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- You know, those soccer balls can develop a nasty spin ...

Five things that guarantee this World Cup will have a happy ending.

• Now that the deserving Americans advanced to the knockout stage with a dramatic 1-0 victory over an Algeria team so satisfied with the notion of a tie you might have thought Gordon Gee was the delegation chief, everything else is gravy.

• The French got eliminated.

• The French are done.

• Gone.

• Kaput.

Yes, finally a World Cup team to unite all Americans.

France.

A team that made the Yankees, Wall Street, BP and Lady Gaga seem entirely embraceable.

The World Cup doesn't always offer a legitimate chance to pull for the U.S. past the group stage. And, face it, it doesn't exactly give us a traditional enemy to root against every four years. There's no Pittsburgh to the U.S. World Cup team. This year, you couldn't go wrong with the French even without the Americans playing Les Bleus.

Don't get me wrong. It's not about the French denying us use of their airspace and protesting the invasion of Iraq. OK, so maybe it is the airspace thing a little.

It's more the French never really belonged in this World Cup. They qualified after a handball went uncalled back in November in a match against Ireland. When they arrived in South Africa with a track record of entitled behavior aboard their Airbus A380, they showed total disdain for the event.

Hassan Ammar / Associated PressThere were words -- but no handshakes -- exchanged between French coach Raymond Domenech (left) and South Africa's Carlos Alberto Parreira. Which pretty much ends the argument that only Americans can act like children at sports events.

They called a strike and stayed away from practice in protest of French coach Raymond Domenech dismissing Nicolas Anelka for insubordination. Team captain Patrick Eva decried the unnamed "traitor" who leaked the tirade against his coach to the media.

The general manager of the soccer federation quit and flew home.

Domenech, who consults astrology in devising his lineups and strategies, refused to shake the hand of South African coach Carlos Alberto Parreira after a 2-1 loss to the host country.

Team officials made their spoiled underachievers fly coach back to Paris immediately after the loss. I'll bet they even had to settle for a Grade B caviar.

"Laughing Stock of the World," read a headline in the Irish Times. That was slightly different than the motto the French team brought to South Africa:

"All together for a new dream."

Look, I hate to admit it. Watching the high and mighty disintegrate appeals to me. It's a character flaw, I know. I just like it.

As a casual World Cup fan, I was looking for a Godsend and got one. I was looking for something that could help me relate.

There was a familiarity about all that dissension that attracted me. People arguing. Finger pointing. Leaving in a huff. It reminds me of most family gatherings I attend.

Merci, France.

If you thought Jarts were dangerous...

The U.S. Olympic Committee is introducing Backyard Games, a concept providing Americans with the opportunity to celebrate the Olympic spirit at Fourth of July barbecues in part by adapting Olympic and Paralympic sports for the backyard.

The Backyard Games kit consists of an apron, cones/megaphones, flying discs and bumper stickers emblazoned with USOC branding.

And, I'm only guessing here, javelins, 16-pound shots and hard hats?

SPINOFFS

Sue Ogrocki / Associated PressKevin Durant isn't a free agent, but he hasn't even learned to make his current employers and fans nervous about his future plans.

The Cavs have tinkered with their logo. They'll go with a deeper wine color to signify the red they'll be bleeding if LeBron James leaves...

Hey, Chris Paul would welcome a trade if the Hornets aren't serious about winning a championship. Now there's a news flash. I thought he'd want to stay...

Kevin Durant, the NBA scoring leader, can negotiate an extension with the Thunder on July 1 and says "hopefully something gets done." You can understand why he's so interested in staying. Not every NBA star has the luxury of getting drafted into a mega-market like Oklahoma City...

Maybe Durant will vow to light up Oklahoma City like...Des Moines?

If LeBron leaves, the Cavs will have an obvious choice as head coach: Mike Brown ...

The Pittsburgh Pirates fired one of the people who races as a pierogi after he criticized contract extensions given to GM Neal Huntington and manager John Russell on his Facebook page. On Wednesday, he was rehired. I can't believe I just wrote that...

HE SAID IT

Not that there's anything wrong with that.

"Oh please. Wake me when it's over. Get an act. Rhinestone bikinis and giving people the finger." -- Jerry Seinfeld, on the antics of Lady Gaga, who was ushered to his empty suite at a recent Mets' game after causing an uproar and without his permission.

YOU SAID IT

"With the World Cup in full swing, is it true Anderson Varejao is moonlighting as Flopping Coach for his native Brazil?" -- Vince

Could be. I thought I saw him on the field dressed as a priest and administering last rites.

"Bud:

"Can you confirm which year the Indians will have to trade Carlos Santana for three Double-A prospects?" -- Tom H

Don't be such a pessimist. Provided they move the team to Santo Domingo, Santana is said to be willing to offer the Indians a hometown discount.

"Bud:

"A bunch of us Spin fans are planning to host a gala Bud Shaw Appreciation Day at Cleveland Browns Stadium next Saturday. Do you think you could drop by for a few moments?" -- Martin M

First, to save space, I believe that could be held in a VW Beetle. Second, I can't promise anything. I will only say that wherever I go from here -- delivery route, nursing home -- Spin readers will always be in my heart.

"Dear Bud:

"For Dan Gilbert, the bright side of a Cavs' meltdown without LeBron is that he has a Loan Arena within a dice toss of his casino." -- Michael S.

Don't dismiss the "Checks Cashed" sign that will adorn the arena either.

"Bud:

"To better follow the footsteps of his idol Michael Jordan, do you think LeBronx will sign with the New York Knicks as a stepping stone to playing for the team he really loves, the Yankees?" -- Chas

Having seen LeBron take batting practice once, I think the odds are better he'll ride the winner at the next Kentucky Derby.

"Hey Bud:

"I saw where North Korea cut its live broadcast of its World Cup soccer match after falling behind, 7-0, versus Portugal. Any chance Kim Jung Il II can control our beloved Cleveland Indians broadcasts?" -- Dave A.

First-time You Said It winners receive a T-shirt from the Mental Floss collection. Repeat winners get a two-year stay at a guard tower in the Demilitarized Zone.

The Ohio State Racing Commission approved the sales of Thistledown to Harrah's Entertainment and Beulah Park to Penn National Gaming Inc.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Ohio State Racing Commission approved the sales of Thistledown to Harrah's Entertainment and Beulah Park to Penn National Gaming Inc. at its monthly meeting Wednesday in Columbus.

Thistledown was sold for $43 million, while Beulah Park brought $37 million.

The commission had concerns the new owners of the tracks were more interested in casino gambling than horse racing.

"We're taking both [of the new owners] at their word, that they're in it for the long haul," said OSRC Executive Director Tom Fries Jr. Both companies seemed very confident the Ohio tracks will get approval for video lottery terminals (VLTs) that are on the November ballot, Fries said. The VLTs would provide a financial shot in the arm for Ohio's seven horse racing tracks.

"They both have the cash and the resources to make large-scale improvements at Thistledown and Beulah Park," Fries said. "The Harrah's people said they loved Thistledown, its location, and the facility. They felt the Cleveland market has a lot of potential, and were very encouraged. Their team is ready to come in and improve Thistledown."

The longest tennis match in history is going to get longer. American John Isner and French qualifier Nicolas Mahut must come back Thursday to complete the match they began at Wimbledon on Tuesday.

Alastair Grant / Associated PressWith the sun's rays nearly gone, Wimbledon referee Soeren Friemel halts Wednesday's unprecedented fifth set between American John Isner (left) and Nicolas Mahut of France with the two men tied at 59 games apiece in the set. The match will resume Thursday.

By Diane Pucin

Los Angeles Times

WIMBLEDON, England -- It became a tennis match unwilling to end.

At 9:09 p.m. Wednesday, at the most magical Grand Slam, the slugfest still was not over but had shattered history.

Seven hours and six minutes and 118 games in the fifth set of a match that began a day earlier, John Isner, a lanky Georgian who loves college football, and France's Nicolas Mahut, with the savoir faire to wear chunky jewelery around his neck, would not give in.

They broke the record for longest match ever -- a match that is already in the record book with the most games (163) and most aces. The longest match (10 hours and counting) and the longest set in tennis history closed down for the night. But only for the night.

The scoreboard told the story of Isner vs. Mahut: 6-4, 3-6, 6-7(7), 7-6 (3), 59-59, a story looking for an end as it goes into a third day.

Two World Cup soccer matches, one involving the United States and one England, had started and ended and Isner and Mahut played on.

Andy Roddick and Venus Williams began and ended their second-round matches Wednesday and Isner and Mahut played on.

President Barack Obama even addressed the nation announcing the firing of the country's top battlefield general, Gen. Stanley McChrystal. Yet more people seemed glued to the war at Wimbledon.

Then, as the last light of the sun fell away, play was suspended, Mahut telling the referee it was time. Isner was shaking his head, wanting to play on, but the decision was made.

View full sizeSang Tan,
Associated PressJohn Isner launches a return in their marathon singles match. "Nothing like this will ever happen again ever," Isner said after the match was suspended. "I don’t know what to say. He’s serving fantastic, I’m serving fantastic. We both couldn’t agree to play so they canceled."

And with that, there were no more "we want more" chants from the packed crowd at Court 18, no more watching two players dripping in sweat, hitting balls no one thought they could reach, fatigue playing tricks on every move they made -- a whiff here, an ace there, a stumble here, then diving flat out face first into the grass is a desperate bid to reach a shot.

"Nothing like this will ever happen again ever," Isner said, speaking to a BBC on-court announcer. "I don't know what to say. He's serving fantastic, I'm serving fantastic. We both couldn't agree to play so they canceled."

Mahut agreed but was ready to call it a day.

"Everybody wants to see the end," he said, "but come back tomorrow. We played for too long."

This match began on Tuesday but by the time Isner won the fourth set tiebreaker, darkness had taken over and play was suspended. It had been hardly notable -- a first-round match that would finish off in 20 or 30 minutes on Wednesday. Isner, after all, is seeded 23rd here and Mahut, ranked 148th in the world, had to win three qualifying matches just to get into the main draw.

Instead, they played into greatness.

Before Wednesday was over, Isner's 98 aces and Mahut's 95 each shattered the old single record of 78.

The epic battles between Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe or Jimmy Connors and Ivan Lendl, even last year's Wimbledon final between Roger Federer and Andy Roddick, were now consigned to footnotes.

Even the previous record-holder -- the 2004 French Open match between Frenchmen Fabrice Santoro and Arnaud Clement -- of six hours and 33 minutes was gone. But that was on the languidly slow French red clay.

This tennis was less complicated. It was two men smashing off aces and moving on and on and on. Isner is 6-feet-9 and by about the 100th game of the fifth set was left almost motionless on many points. He would crack a serve and hope for the best.

While the two may not have agreed about stopping play, minutes earlier, at 58 games all, they agreed on one thing. A bathroom break. And no one could blame them. They had played 410 minutes of tennis nonstop by then.

And if it wasn't aesthetically pleasing, there was never a lack of effort. Some examples:

• On the second point of the 117th game Mahout threw his whole body in the direction of an Isner volley. He didn't get the ball back but Isner applauded and where he found the energy to put his hands together, no one was quite sure.

• In the 65th game of the final set, Isner had two match points but Mahut saved one with a carefully aimed volley and another on a service winner.

• And Isner had needed to win a fourth-set tiebreak in the dusk on Tuesday night. The players briefly discussed beginning the fifth set then but the decision was made to stop.

Wednesday started uneventfully on Court 18, with Greta Arn thankfully beating Alicia Molik, 7-5, 6-4, in straight sets. It was just after 1 p.m. that Isner and Mahut returned to the court and most of the buzz around the tennis grounds was about the upcoming England-Slovenia soccer game.

There was no reason to think tennis history would be made. Yet it was.

So long did the single set last that Roddick had time to lose his first set to another Frenchman, Michael Llodra, but win in four, shower, meet with reporters, return to his flat and get onto Twitter to say of Isner and Mahut, "This match is unreal." And that was only in the 60th game.

Third-seeded Novak Djokovic, who had played and beaten Newport Beach's Taylor Dent in three sets had suggested when the Isner-Mahut match was 46-46 in the fifth, "Maybe they should agree on playing a tiebreak if it's 50-all. That's maybe one of the solutions."

Of the four major tournaments, only the U.S. Open uses a tiebreak to decide a fifth set and both Isner and Mahout seemed to wish for that at different points Wednesday.

As the fifth set played on and on, fans were leaning over the wall on the 18th court. Other players who had finished their matches stayed in the players lounge watching television.

Defending champion Federer twice postponed his post-match news conference so he could watch history and when he finally came to talk he was nearly speechless.

"This is absolutely amazing," he said. "In a way, I wish I was them. This is a very special match. It's unbelievable. I don't know what to say."

Goedert went into Wednesday night's game with a combined .330 batting average for AAA Columbus and AA Akron, with 21 doubles and 12 home runs.

UPDATED: 11:31 p.m.

Ken Carr, Indians Prospect InsiderJared Goedert is pounding the baseball for Columbus after a big start this season at Akron.

FARM REPORT

AAA Columbus Clippers

Clippers 11, Red Wings 2: Third baseman Jared Goedert (.350) homered, singled and drove in four runs, and right-hander Josh Tomlin (7-2, 2.70) allowed one earned run, five hits and one walk in six innings as Columbus won an International League game Wednesday in Rochester, N.Y. Tomlin struck out six. Shortstop Brian Bixler (.278) had three hits, and center fielder Michael Brantley (.296) and designated hitter Josh Rodriguez (.333) each drove in two runs for the Clippers.

Notes:Goedert went into Wednesday night's game hitting .345 (19-for-55) with seven doubles, five home runs and 10 RBI since being promoted from AA Akron. With the two teams, he was hitting a combined .330 with 21 doubles, 12 homers and 42 RBI....OF Matt LaPorta was hitting .375 (21-for-56) with two doubles, five homers and 12 RBI since being sent to Columbus by the Indians....2B Cord Phelps was batting .344 (11-for-32) with three doubles, a homer and five RBI since being promoted from Akron....OF Jose Constanza (.331) had 15 stolen bases in 17 attempts...RHP Josh Tomlin was 4-1 with a 2.56 ERA in his last nine starts....RHP Vinnie Pestano (0-0, two saves, 2.08) hadn't allowed an earned run in his last eight games, giving up seven hits and three walks and striking out eight.

AA Akron Aeros

Aeros 5, Flying Squirrels 4: Second baseman Jason Kipnis (.342) homered, singled and drove in three runs for host Akron, and right fielder John Drennen (.291) singled in Lonnie Chisenhall (.290) in the eighth inning of an Eastern League win over Richmond, Va. Catcher Damaso Espino (.314) doubled and singled for the Aeros. Akron right-hander Paolo Espino (3.79) allowed four runs in five innings.

Notes: Aeros 3B Lonnie Chisenhall (and Lake County catcher Chun Chen) was selected to play in the XM All-Star Futures Game on July 11 at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Chisenhall is the 14th Aero to be named to a Futures roster....2B Jason Kipnis, recently promoted from Kinston, has been named the Aeros Player of the Week for June 14-20. It's the first such award given by the Aeros, and they will continue it on a weekly basis. Kipnis batted .375 (9-for-24) with three doubles, two home runs, four RBI and five runs during the week, getting at least one hit in all six games -- all on the road.... RHP Bryce Stowell (0-0, six saves) had not allowed a run in 10 appearances with Akron, giving up 14 hits and eight walks in 17 innings while striking out 21. Combined with his time at Kinston, Stowell was 1-0 with six saves and an 0.85 ERA, striking out 62 in 42 1/3 innings while allowing 30 hits and 16 walks....Since returning from the disabled list (sore right shoulder), Lonnie Chisenhall was batting .337 (29-for-86) with five doubles, one triple, six homers, 21 RBI and 19 runs in 22 games....Catcher Damaso Espino had reached base safely in his last 13 games, going 13-for-41 (.317) with a homer, five RBI, six runs and seven walks....The Aeros have placed LHP Eric Berger (mid-back tightness) on the disabled list, retroactive to June 19, and activated RHP Zach Putnam. Berger is 3-4 with a 5.25 ERA in 10 starts. In his last three starts, he is 2-0 with a 1.45 ERA in 18 2/3 innings, striking out 20 while giving up 10 hits, five walks and no homers. Putnam is 2-1 with two saves and a 4.02 ERA in 11 outings (seven starts). He has fanned 27 and walked seven in 40 1/3 innings.

Advanced A Kinston Indians

The Indians were idle on Wednesday

Notes: Indians LHP T.J. McFarland pitched two innings, giving up one unearned run on one hit with two strikeouts and no walks in Tuesday night's Carolina vs. California League All-Star Game. The California team won, 4-3....RHP Joe Gardner is 6-1 with a 1.58 ERA in nine starts. In 51 1/3 innings, he's struck out 49 and allowed 28 hits, 18 walks and one homer. Opponents are batting .161 against him. Combined with his time at Lake County, Gardner is 7-1 with a 2.12 ERA in 15 starts spanning 76 1/3 innings. He's fanned 87 and walked 29, while holding opponents to 45 hits, three homers and a .169 batting average....Catcher Doug Pickens (.260) is batting .359 (14-for-39) with three doubles in his last 10 games....2B Karexon Sanchez (.280) is hitting .322 in June, with four doubles, three homers and 18 walks. Sanchez leads the Carolina League in walks (43) and is third in on-base percentage (.418)....Kinston (36-34) begins post-All-Star break play on Thursday night at home against Lynchburg (29-41).

A Lake County Captains

The Captains were idle on Wednesday

Notes: Captains OF Bo Greenwell was 3-for-4 with a double, one RBI, two runs and a stolen base to help the Eastern Division to a 6-2 win over the Western Division 6-2 in the Midwest League All-Star Game on Tuesday night. Captains catcher Chun Chen was 1-for-2 and RHP Nickolas Sarianides struck out the one batter he faced....Chun Chen (and Akron 3B Lonnie Chisenhall) was selected to play in the XM All-Star Futures Game on July 11 at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Chen becomes the first player on a Captains active roster to be named to a Futures team....OF Delvi Cid is second in the Midwest League with 29 stolen bases (in 32 attempts)...IF Jeremie Tice is third with 45 RBI....OF Bo Greenwell (.310) is eighth in hits (77) and fourth in runs (47)....Catcher Chun Chen is tied for third in doubles (20), is fourth in slugging percentage (.544) and fifth in batting average (.318)....LHP Matt Packer is 3-2 with a 2.08 ERA in his last six starts, striking out 29 and walking four in 30 1/3 innings....The Captains (44-25) begin post-All-Star break play on Friday night at Western Michigan (26-43).

A Mahoning Valley Scrappers

Doubledays 8, Scrappers 3: Mahoning Valley left-hander Mike Rayl (0-1, 1.86) allowed two runs in five innings during a New York-Penn League loss to visiting Auburn, N.Y. Scrappers right-hander Kyle C. Smith (7.11) gave up five runs in 2.1 innings of relief. First baseman Jonathan Burnette (.250) went 2-for-4 for Mahoning Valley.

Notes: Going into Wednesday night's game, catcher Wyatt Toregas was 3-for-8 (.375) with two homers and three walks....The Scrappers were batting .225 as a team and had no stolen bases.

Independent Lake Erie Crushers

Crushers 5, Beach Bums 3: Travis Risser picked up the win for the Crushers, pitching six innings and allowing just the two runs on seven hits while striking out four at Traverse City, Mich. Lake Erie scored twice on errors and once on a wild pitch in recording its sixth consecutive win.

Notes: Going into Wednesday night's game, the Crushers had won five straight games and nine of 10....SS Jodam Rivera (.356) was on a 10-game hitting streak and had reached base in his last 24 games....3B Andrew Davis (.333) had three homers and 20 RBI and 1B Eddie Tisdale (.316) had 12 doubles, two homers and 11 RBI.

The Indians went 2-for-11 with runners in scoring position and stranded eight runners. Then Kerry Wood dropped the hammer on himself and his teammates in a dreadful ninth inning.

UPDATED: 11:27 p.m.

Yong Kim / Philadelphia Daily NewsShane Victorino punctuated the Phillies' victory celebration on Wednesday night with the traditions pie in the face of Jimmy Rollins, whose two-run homer in the bottom of the ninth rallied Philadelphia past the Indians, 7-6.

• Choo keeps a low profile for All-Star recognition

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- It was a big night for Shin-Soo Choo and a bad one for Kerry Wood.

Choo hit two homers and drove in four runs, but Kerry Wood gave up a two-run walkoff homer to Jimmy Rollins with one out in the ninth as the Phillies rallied past the Indians, 7-6, at Citizens Bank Park.

"A disappointing loss ... pretty deflating," said manager Manny Acta. "We didn't execute the way we wanted ... especially offensively. But we still got to the ninth inning with the lead and we blew it."

Choo hit a two-run homer off Kyle Kendrick in the first inning for a 2-0 lead. He did it again in the fifth for a 5-4 lead. It was Choo's ninth and 10th homers of the season.

Brian Schneider's leadoff homer off Frank Herrmann pulled the Phillies into a 5-5 tie in the seventh. The score stayed that way until the ninth when the Indians took a 6-5 lead when Trevor Crowe scored from third on Rollins' throwing error from shortstop.

Anderson Hernandez opened the inning with a bunt single that knocked Chad Durbin out of the game with a strained right hamstring. J.C. Romero (1-0) relieved and Crowe blooped a single to right to push Hernandez to third. It was Crowe's third hit of the game.

Choo, with a chance to put the Phillies away, sent a bouncer back to the mound as Hernandez was tagged out in a rundown, but managed to get Crowe to third and Choo to second.

Carlos Santana, with the infield pulled in, sent a hard shot to Rollins. He gloved it, but made an off-balance throw home as Crowe scored. Rollins just came off the disabled list on Tuesday for this series.

Romero, with runners at second and third, intentionally walked Austin Kearns to load the bases. Russell Branyan, however, ended the inning by lining into a double play at second.

When asked if he felt his club should have scored more than one run in the ninth, Acta said, "What do you think? We had the bases loaded and one of our biggest RBI guys up. We couldn't get it done.

"Earlier in the game we left a guy on third. All those things add up. That's why we wind up beating ourselves."

Wood (1-3) walked Schneider, the No.8 hitter, to start the ninth. He retired pinch-hitter Ben Francisco on a grounder to short, but Rollins hammered a 1-1 pitch over the right field wall to redeem himself.

"It was the ideal situation," said Acta. "The bottom of the order was coming up, but we blew it.

"What set everything up was the leadoff walk. Walking the eighth hitter, no disrespect or anything ... you need to go after guys. Unfortunately, he couldn't throw a strike to Schneider and that set everything up."

If the Phillies were interested in Wood before this, they may have second thoughts. Wood is 5-for-8 in save situations.

The Indians had trouble stopping the Phillies all night. After taking a 2-0 lead in the first on Crowe's double and Choo's homer, the Phillies tied it, 2-2, on Jayson Werth's leadoff homer in the second. Santana gave the Tribe a 3-2 lead in the third with a sacrifice fly. The Phillies took a 4-3 lead in the fourth on Raul Ibanez's double past first.

Jake Westbrook started and allowed seven hits in five innings in his first career start against the Phillies. He left with a 5-4 lead thanks to Choo's second homer.

"Jake was shaky," said Acta. "They have such a good lineup. He survived the five innings, but this being the National League we had to try to add on."

Travis Hafner pinch-hit for Westbrook with a one out and a runner on third in the fifth. Hafner grounded out.

Relievers Tony Sipp, Herrmann, Rafael Perez, Joe Smith and Chris Perez held the Phillies to one run over three innings.

Kendrick allowed five runs, four earned, in four innings. He allowed six hits and two walks with one strikeout.

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel praised Rollins.

"He hadn't had a hit in the first two games since he's been back," said Manuel, "but then he gets into a big situation and pops one out. ... I'll tell you the guy I really liked ... it's Choo."

Said Acta, "This ballpark is perfect for him, especially a guy like him who hits the ball to all fields. It suits him perfect. But we lost the game. I wish his effort would have been for a winning cause."

Who is the logical choice to represent the Indians at All-Star game in July? If AL manager Joe Girardi doesn't need a pitcher (Fausto Carmona and Mitch Talbot are long shots), it's probably Shin-Soo Choo. Now someone just has to convince Choo.

Matt Slocum / Associated PressShin-Soo Choo follows through on the first of his pair of two-run homers Wednesday night. This one gave the Indians a 2-0 lead in the first inning off the Phillies' Kyle Kendrick.

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. -- Shin-Soo Choo knows that every team in the big leagues has to be represented by one player in the All-Star Game on July 13 at Angels Stadium in Anaheim, Calif.

He knows a lot of people are saying he'll represent the last-place Indians. If it happens, he'll go. He'd prefer to go playing like an All-Star.

"If I had All-Star team numbers, it would be no problem," said Choo. "But I don't have All-Star team numbers. I'm not hitting .330 ... 350. I don't have 15 or 20 home runs. I don't have that many RBI."

Choo entered Wednesday night's game against Philadelphia hitting .289 (77-for-266) with 13 doubles, two triples, eight homers, 33 RBI and 11 steals in 13 attempts. He pumped up those stats with a pair of two-run homers.

"A lot of players on other teams have my numbers," he said. "I play on Korean and minor-league All-Star teams and I always had All-Star numbers. If they say go, I'll say thank you and I'll go."

Choo said he's talked to his wife, Won Mi Ha, about it.

"She told me sometimes you've had good numbers and didn't go," said Choo. "She's a good girl. She's always positive."

Choo started Wednesday's game with a two-run homer in the first inning. In the fifth, he hit another two-run homer to give him 10 for the season. He's hit safely in 17 of his last 18 games.

"I'm not thinking about the All-Star Game," he said. "I'm just trying to focus on every at-bats and every day. If I do that, the numbers will come."

Visiting time: Kansas City has reportedly signed shortstop Christian Colon, the fourth pick in the June amateur draft. ESPN's Keith Law is reporting that Colon, who played at Cal State Fullerton, signed for an estimated $2.8 million.

Mark Almond / Birmingham (Ala.) News via APMississippi lefty Drew Pomeranz will visit with the Indians next Monday to begin contract negotiations after being the Tribe's first-round pick in the amateur draft.

INDIANS CHATTER
Clubhouse confidential: If you’re thinking that Kerry Wood’s scoreless ninth inning against the Phillies on Tuesday night was a showcase, you could be right.
The Phillies’ pen has been a sore spot for the defending NL champs this season. Closer Brad Lidge has been injured and inconsistent through the first three months. If Lidge regains his old form, Wood could still help as a set-up man and backup closer.
The Indians might feel burnt around the edges from their last encounter with the Phillies at the trading table in the Cliff Lee deal, but it’s clear that Wood is available. Then again, he didn't help the cause with the two-run game-winning homer by Jimmy Rollins Wednesday night.

Goal oriented: Manny Acta is driven by goals. When his career as a player ended, he decided to reach the big leagues as a coach and then a manager. Those goals have been achieved.
He gave a clue of what’s next on his list Wednesday when he was asked if rookie Stephen Strasburg should make the All-Star Game.
“I hope I can someday get to the point where I’m naming people to the All-Star Game,” said Acta. “For now, leave me out of it. That’s my next goal ... to answer those questions.”
For a manager to be in position to pick an All-Star team, he has to reach the World Series the previous year.

Stat of the day: The Indians are driven by offense. They’re 15-5 when they score five or more runs, but 0-20 when they score two or fewer.
— Paul Hoynes

The Indians took left-hander Drew Pomeranz from the University of Mississippi with the fifth pick, but according to people close to the situation there have been no negotiations to date. The deadline for signing players taken in the June draft is Aug. 16.

Pomeranz is scheduled to come to Cleveland on Monday to get a physical and hear the Indians' sales pitch. Ole Miss didn't qualify for the College World Series and Pomeranz is currently working at a baseball camp on campus.

This season the 6-5, 230-pound Pomeranz went 9-2 with a 2.24 ERA in 16 starts. He struck out 139 and walked 49 in 100 2/3 innings. He allowed 25 earned runs on 25 hits. The opposition hit .195 against him.

Not this time: After telling Cleveland reporters that he might get kicked out of Tuesday's game, and following through on the prediction, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said before Wednesday's game, "I'm not getting kicked out tonight. Believe me, I didn't want to get kicked out Tuesday. That's no fun for me."

Manuel has been ejected 28 times in six years with the Phillies.

Will he or won't he? Manuel, who will manage the NL in the All-Star Game, says he'll take a look at Washington rookie sensation Stephen Strasburg, even though he made only his fourth start as a big-leaguer on Wednesday.

"I'll keep an eye on him," said Manuel, "but we've got some pretty good starters in this league. Have you see Josh Johnson from Florida? He's a big man. He can hit 97."

Tribe outfielder Shelley Duncan feels the NL will put Strasburg on its roster.

"The game means home field advantage in the World Series," said Duncan. "They're playing to win. They'll close with him."

Strange game: Jason Donald always though he'd make with the Phillies and call Citizens Bank Park home. He made the big leagues all right, but as an Indian.

"It's funny the way it worked out in terms of interleague play," said Donald. "I thought I'd make it with the Phillies. But I'm here now."

The Indians acquired Donald in the Cliff Lee deal.

Ouch: Ruben Niebla, a coaching assistant for the Indians, will undergo surgery on his right knee next week at Cleveland Clinic. Niebla was injured while shagging balls in the outfield Sunday in Pittsburgh. It's not known when he'll rejoin the Indians.

Finally: Manager Manny Acta on the firing of Florida manager Fredi Gonzalez: "Being in that small group of minority managers, we keep in touch. ... He's well respected. He's going to land on his feet. Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can come around."

It was 40 years ago when the freshly minted Cavaliers were busy plotting not one draft, but two in order to fill out their expansion roster.

View full sizePlain Dealer file photoWith a snazzy backdrop, the Cleveland Cavaliers' braintrust began adding collegians to the expansion team's first roster in 1970. From left to right, assistant coach Jim Lessig, head coach Bill Fitch and owner Nick Mileti. The college draft, and the expansion draft of unprotected NBA players, resulted in a 15-win debut season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Unless they swing a late trade, the Cavs will be spectators, not players, in Thursday's NBA draft at New York's Madison Square Garden. They don't have a pick in either of the two rounds.

But 40 years ago, the freshly minted Cavs were busy plotting not one draft, but two. They filled their first roster for the 1970-71 debut through the college draft in late March and an expansion draft of players from other NBA teams in early May. That's how new teams were built back then, plucking from the benches of others.

Founder and owner Nick Mileti had hired Bill Fitch and assistant coach/scout Jim Lessig from college to coach his new franchise. They had a good line on college talent, but knew little about NBA players.

To cram for the expansion draft, Fitch sent Lessig out to buy about $20 worth of NBA bubble-gum trading cards so they could study the player bios on the back.

"We laid them all out on Bill's living room floor," said Lessig, who lives in Perrysburg, near Toledo, and works part-time in Bowling Green's sports management program.

For the college draft, the Cavs chose seventh, making John Johnson, a forward from Iowa, their first-ever pick. As the coach at the University of Minnesota, Fitch was familiar with him through their Big Ten battles.

View full sizePlain Dealer file photo"I'll never forget the fans," said original Cavalier John Johnson (No. 32, front row, second from right, next to Bingo Smith). They supported us no matter rain, shine or what. And Bill (Fitch, second row, far left) did a great job of keeping us together."

THE ORIGINAL CAVS
22: Cliff Anderson G-F 6-2 Saint Joseph’s; 50: Len Chappell F-C 6-8 Wake Forest; 10: Joe Cooke G 6-3 Indiana; 21: Johnny Egan G 5-11 Providence; 23: Gary Freeman F 6-9 Oregon State; 32: John Johnson F 6-7 Iowa; 5: Bobby Lewis G 6-3 North Carolina; 18: McCoy McLemore F-C 6-7 Drake; 30: Larry Mikan F 6-7 Minnesota; 45: Luther Rackley C 6-10 Xavier; 7: Bingo Smith F-G 6-5 Tulsa; 15: Dave Sorenson F 6-8 Ohio State; 40: Gary Suiter C-F 6-9 Midwestern State; 11: John Warren G-F 6-3 St. John’s: 17: Bobby Washington G 5-11 Eastern Kentucky; 44: Walt Wesley C 6-11 Kansas

"He really liked J.J.," Lessig said. "He was pretty set on him."

Johnson, reached by phone this week at his home in northern California, said he was in literature class when he learned the Cavs had taken him, and had mixed emotions.

"I was happy, I was glad," he said. "At the same time, you know, I had to go to an expansion team. It was a lot of work. You had to learn how to lose."

A lot.

The original Cavs were the NBA's version of the fumbling, bumbling New York Mets, one of three expansion teams that season and the worst of the bunch. The Cavs won just 15 games -- nine of which came against Buffalo and Portland, as NBA schedule-makers showed mercy and had the new teams play each other 12 times that season.

The Cavs started 0-15, won one, then lost 12 more in a row. By the halfway point, they were 4-37. Fitch revealed recently that he locked himself in a bathroom some nights after games and cried.

"I never told that to anybody," he said by phone from his home in Houston. "[The losing] just drives you crazy. It was like, 'is this ever going to end?'"

So, compared to the season, that first draft was a high point. Johnson signed for $300,000, and the Cavs got way more than their money's worth. Johnson made the All-Star team as a rookie and enjoyed three productive seasons before being traded to Portland. He wound up winning an NBA title with Seattle under coach Lenny Wilkens, who would later coach the Cavaliers.

Fitch went on to become a two-time Coach of the Year and win an NBA title in Boston.

And the Cavs ... still waiting after all these years.

THE ORIGINAL CAVALIERS: Where are they now?

Plain Dealer file photoBobby Smith was the only original Cavalier to play more than four seasons with the team. Here he grabs a rebound away from Knicks stars Dave DeBusschere (22), Walt Frazier (10) and Jerry Lucas (32) in 1972.

Cliff Anderson: G-F from St. Joseph's drafted in fourth round by Los Angeles Lakers in 1967; signed as free agent in October 1970; appeared in 26 games with Cavs, then signed as free agent with Philadelphia. Anderson, 65, a corporate sales manager for nearly 20 years who ran his own health food company for a while, lives in Philly, where he works as a city probation officer. His two months with the expansion Cavs left an impression. "As you can imagine, it was quite a shock, going from Hollywood to Cleveland," he said. "At that time, downtown was a pretty dour place." He still shudders from the biting wind off the lake.

Len Chappell: F-C from Wake Forest became an expansion yo-yo; plucked by Milwaukee from Detroit in 1968 expansion draft, and by the Cavs from the Bucks in 1970. Lasted six games here before being claimed off waivers by Atlanta. Chappell, 69, and his wife run a sporting goods store in suburban Milwaukee. As for his brief stop in Cleveland, "I haven't given it much thought," he said.

Joe Cooke: G from Indiana and Toledo Libbey High School chosen in sixth round of 1970 draft; averaged 4.3 points in 73 games that first season. Then his knees gave out on him, and that was it. Cooke died in 2006 at age 58 of what his father, Joseph Cooke Sr., said was natural causes. The elder Cooke, who lives in Toledo, said he got to watch his son play three or four games with the Cavs that first season. After the NBA, the younger Cooke worked in New York as a supervisor at a drug rehabilitation center until he retired. He wound up in Dallas, where his wife, a paralegal, was transferred. Last November, Cooke was inducted into the Toledo City Athletic Hall of Fame.

Johnny Egan: G from Providence; was finishing up long NBA career when Cavs drafted him in 1970 from the Los Angeles Lakers, who had made it to the Finals the year before. He played 26 games here. Egan said he was constantly in coach Bill Fitch's ear, begging to be sent back to the West Coast, because he and his wife and kids loved the California sun. "I wasn't happy, leaving the Lakers," he said. Fitch told Egan he couldn't get him back to Los Angeles, but he could swing a deal with the San Diego Rockets, which is how he eventually wound up in Houston, to where the franchise eventually moved. Egan, 71, who also coached Houston for three years, is retired, but is involved in charitable work and conducts coaching clinics.

View full sizePlain Dealer file photoJohn Warren (11) didn't see a lot of victories in his four seasons with the Cavaliers, but there are plenty of good memories. "Not a lot of good things happened to us on the court," he said, "but some of my best friends came off that team."

Gary Freeman: F from Oregon State was drafted by Milwaukee in first round (16th pick) of 1970 draft; by February, was traded to Cavs for McCoy McLemore and a future draft choice and Bucks went on to win NBA title. Freeman, who said he thought being traded would give him more time on the court, not less, played just 47 minutes in 11 games here. But he will always go down in history as the Cavs' original number 23. "I never even considered that until you mentioned it," said Freeman, 61, who is a financial advisor in Albany, Ore. He has three grown kids, including a son who plays professional basketball in Poland. Freeman played professionally in Holland and Belgium after his one NBA season, and still plays twice a week for fun.

John Johnson: F from Iowa, was Cavs' first-round pick (seventh overall) in 1970 draft; an All-Star as a rookie, "J.J.," was among the team leaders in scoring and assists, enjoying three productive seasons before being traded to Portland after the '73 season; won an NBA title with Seattle in '78-79 under Lenny Wilkens. Johnson, 62, is retired and lives in Redwood City, Calif., where he had moved to watch his son Mitch play for four years at Stanford. Johnson said he took the constant losing hard, but coach Bill Fitch would remind him that the team was a building block to something better. "Met some great people," Johnson said. "[I'll] never forget the fans. They supported us no matter rain, shine or what. And Bill did a great job of keeping us together."

Bobby Lewis: G from North Carolina was an expansion draftee from the San Francisco Warriors; averaged about six points and three assists in 79 games in one season with Cavs -- his last in NBA. "I just remember we couldn't win a game early in the season," he said. "We were just a bunch of guys from throughout the league. An expansion team's an expansion team." Lewis, 65, lives on the Chesapeake Bay near Annapolis, Md., where he enjoys boating and plans to do a lot more of it in retirement. He works for the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., doing technical work for the national symphony -- a trade he followed his grandfather, father and uncles into.

McCoy McLemore: F from Drake drafted by Cavs from Detroit; averaged nearly 12 points in 58 games before being traded to Milwaukee for Freeman and a second-round pick in '71. McLemore, who won an NBA title with the Bucks that season, retired from Houston after the '71-72 season and later became a color analyst for Rockets' television. He died in April 2009 from cancer at 67.

Larry Mikan: F from Minnesota, son of NBA Hall of Famer George Mikan, was drafted in fourth round of 1970 draft by Los Angeles and signed by Cavs as free agent that November; averaged three points in 53 games in only NBA season. Mikan, 62, lives in San Diego and said he's involved in real estate investing.

Luther Rackley: F from Xavier taken in expansion draft from Cincinnati; averaged nearly eight points in 74 games. After nine games the following season, he was traded to New York, which lost in NBA Finals. "The Cleveland fans were great," said Rackley, 63, a semi-retired real estate broker who lives in New York. "They were patient. They would wait for us after games, invite us over to their houses, buy us drinks." But adjusting to all the losing was difficult. "For a person who never had a losing season [in high school or college]," he said, "I had never in my life experienced something like that. When the Cavs called me to come out for the reunion [a few years ago], my exact words were, 'What makes you think I want to re-live it?'" Rackley said he spent time as an NBA scout and had a casting office for commercials and films. He's planning a fund-raiser this summer to help retired players with health and money problems.

Bobby "Bingo" Smith: F-G from Tulsa was first-round pick (sixth overall) by San Diego in 1969; nabbed by Cavs in expansion; became a staple of 1975-76 "Miracle of Richfield" team, averaging about 15 points through most of his nine seasons in Cleveland. Smith, who still lives in the area, suffered a life-threatening stroke in April 2009. A year later, he said he's feeling good and working through physical rehabilitation. "It was bad," he said, "but the good Lord smiled on me and has things that I must do." Smith, whose retired number 7 jersey hangs from the rafters of The Q, tries to attend as many home games as possible and is still warmly greeted by fans. "More than ever," he said.

Dave Sorenson: F from Ohio State and Findlay High School taken in second round of '70 draft; had helped lead Buckeyes to Final Four in '68; spent two solid seasons with Cavs before being shipped to Philadelphia for one year before playing in Europe. Sorenson, who died in 2002 from cancer at 54, lived in Rocky River and worked in sales, for the Converse athletic shoe company and Cleveland's Peterson Nut Co.

Gary Suiter: C-F from Midwestern State was signed as free agent; saw action in 30 games in his only NBA season. A quirky, walking mystery man, Suiter's whereabouts are unconfirmed, although basketballreference.com and the Association for Professional Basketball Research both say he died in 1982 at age 37. According to court records, a man named Gary Suiter was murdered in New Mexico over a $275 gambling debt on Oct. 23, 1982.

John Warren: G-F from St. John's was first-round pick (11th overall) by New York in 1969; Cavs grabbed him in expansion; he played four seasons here. Warren, 63, returned to graduate school to study accounting after his playing days, worked for a Big Six accounting firm for 23 years. He's retired and lives in Queens, N.Y., his hometown since middle school. But Cleveland left him with great memories. "Not a lot of good things happened to us on the court," he said, "but some of my best friends came off that team." One was Bingo Smith, who stood up as his best man in a marriage ceremony at a local judge's house after a game. "It was a good omen," Warren said, "because it was one of the few games we won that year."

Plain Dealer file photo"Shoot, for me it was great," said guard Bobby Washington, whose two NBA season were with the Cavaliers. "I had a great time. Got a chance to live my dream."

Bobby Washington: G from Eastern Kentucky was signed as free agent by Milwaukee in October, 1970, then claimed off waivers two months later by Cleveland, where he played for two years. Washington, 62, returned to Lexington, Ky., where he was from, to teach high school gym and coach basketball. He had retired, but recently returned to substitute teach. Washington said he's got nothing but good memories of Cleveland, where he saw significant playing time in those two seasons. "Shoot, for me it was great," he said. "I had a great time. Got a chance to live my dream."

Walt Wesley: C from Kansas was former first-round choice (sixth overall) in 1966 by Cincinnati; chosen by Cavs in expansion draft from Chicago. Besides Warren, was the only Cavalier to play all 82 games. The 6-11 Wesley led the team in scoring (17.7) and rebounds (8.7), competing against the likes of future Hall of Fame centers Wilt Chamberlain and Bill Russell. But the highlight of that difficult season and his career was the night he ripped the nets for 50 points to beat the Royals, his former team. "That was one for the books for me," said Wesley, now 65 and working as executive director of the Police Athletic League in Ft. Myers, Fla., where he's from. "We had a real tough first year, but I remember guys sticking together and relying on each other."

Cavs guard says: "I have my heart in the city and the organization and I don't want to leave."

AP file photoMo Williams says he wants to stay with the Cavaliers.

Cavaliers guard Mo Williams talked from his San Diego-area offseason home with The Plain Dealer's Brian Windhorst on Wednesday, and Williams confirmed what he had tweeted: He doesn't want to be traded by the Cavaliers.

Some excerpts from Windhorst's story:

With trade rumors swirling around him over the last several weeks, the Cavaliers guard got proactive today via his Twitter feed by requesting not to be traded to his more than 54,000 followers. "I'm not ready to go," Williams wrote. "I'm begging. My work ain't done yet. I'm on both knees."

In an interview with The Plain Dealer from his San Diego-area offseason home this afternoon, Williams said the trade rumors have been giving him some stress.

"It has been bothering me, it is a little nerve-wracking and frustrating," Williams said. "Especially from the simple fact that you don't want to leave. But there's a lot of things going with the team, and you never know what is going to happen. It is something you can't control and it is part of the business.

". . . I have my heart in the city and the organization and I don't want to leave," Williams said. "You can look at it from both sides. Other teams want you, so that is good, but I love Cleveland."

So, he wants to stay. But should he? Time to vote:

John Wall will almost certainly be the choice when the Washington Wizards make the first pick in the NBA draft. Maybe that's the wrong Kentucky kid.

Kentucky's John Wall speaks to reporters during the 2010 NBA Draft participants media availability, Wednesday, June 23, 2010 in New York. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

Reports say the Cavaliers are trying to buy or trade for a pick in tonight's draft. Most mock drafts predict that Kentucky guard John Wall will be the first selection, going to Washington, and that Philadelphia will then tab Ohio State guard Evan Turner.

Darron Cummings, Associated PressOhio State guard Evan Turner is expected to be picked by the Philadelphia 76ers.
• NBA Draft Tracker

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Cleveland Cavaliers do not have a pick in tonight's NBA draft, though it has been reported that they are checking into buying or trading for one.

Cleveland traded its second-round pick, with Sasha Pavlovic and Ben Wallace, to the Phoenix Sunslast June for Shaquille O'Neal. In February, as the trade deadline approached, the Cavs sent their first-rounder and Zydrunas Ilgauskas to the Washington Wizardsfor Antawn Jamison. Cleveland also got Sebastian Telfair from the Los Angeles Clippers as part of the deal, and a month later, Ilgauskas re-signed with the Cavaliers.

Plain Dealer Cavaliers draft coverage includes Bill Lubinger's story about how in 1970, the Cavaliers prepared for the draft of college players and also for the expansion draft of NBA veterans. The expansion-team Cavs were about to begin their first season. Included in the story is Lubinger's "Where are they now?" update on the players from the first Cavaliers team.

Earlier this week, Plain Dealer Cavaliers beat writer Brian Windhorst wrote about the Cavs' efforts to buy or trade for a draft pick.

Whether the Cavs acquire a pick or not, the draft will proceed. And as it does, the various mock drafts will prove to be of great foresight or folly.

Wall, then Turner

NBAdraft.net updated its mock draft Wednesday night. Like many others, the website has Washington taking Kentucky guard John Wall with the first pick and the Philadelphia 76ers using the second pick to select Ohio State guard Evan Turner.

Included are in-depth profiles on the players, such as this on Evan Turner.

Among the "strengths" detailed about Turner:

Slick mid-range game with the ability to change directions and get defenders off balance to create looks ... Good upperbody strength allows him to absorb contact and make plays at the rim ... Strong finisher. Very adept at finishing after contact. Also utilizes the glass effectively ... Has a nifty runner when he meets up with shot blockers in the paint ... Understands how to use his body to shield the ball from opponents ... Has a great pull up jumper and his ability to drive really sets up his ability to pull up for shots ... Utilizes the spin dribble to get by opponents effectively and into the paint ... Creative playmaker with the ability to find others for shots when his path to the basket gets cut off ... Solid vision and a good passer capable of finding the open man.

With the first pick...

Ian Thomsen takes care of the mock draft for Sports Illustrated's SI.com. About projected No. 1 John Wall, Thomsen writes:

Wall enables the Wizards to embark on a new course based on his speed in the open court, his willingness to share the ball and, above all, his potential to be an elite defender. Gilbert Arenas -- provided he can manage to play a full season for the first time in four years -- will accommodate Wall by moving off the ball to become a finisher.

Elsewhere

Jeff Goodman runs the mock draft for FoxSports.com.

DraftExpress.com makes its picks.

Getting in on the fun with its picks is NBA.Fanhouse.com.

TheHoopDoctors.com predicts how the draft will go.

InsideHoops.com predicts what team will pick which player.

HoopsHype.com makes its picks.

Terry also says that if Byron Scott doesn't work out, Cavs should look hard at Maurice Cheeks.

The Cavs need to think about how to replace Mo Williams' scoring before trading him, says Terry Pluto.

Welcome to today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, our Web video show about what's going on in Cleveland sports. Today's show is hosted by Mike Peticca and Bill Lubinger. Today's highlights:

• Mo Williams, on his twitter account and in an interview with The Plain Dealer's Brian Windhorst, said he loves Cleveland and doesn't want to be traded. Should the Cavs deal him? Cast your vote in the poll now posted on the Starting Blocks blog.

• PD columnist Terry Pluto, today's guest on SBTV, says the Cavaliers should think twice before they deal Mo Williams. Terry says Mo wasn't the top backcourt disappointment for the Cavs in their playoff loss to Boston, a distinction he assigns to Delonte West. Also, Terry thinks that if Byron Scott doesn't work out, the Cavs should take a run at Maurice Cheeks.

SBTV will return Friday with Plain Dealer Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot as the guest. Have a Browns question you'd like to ask Mary Kay during Friday's show? Post it in the comments below and we'll pick the best ones for Friday's show.

Interest around the U.S. is reflected in television ratings and support from a growing legion of fans. At the games, some fans have dressed as Uncle Sam, others as the Statue of Liberty. At the match against England, some wore Elvis outfits.

Rodney White, Associated PressSoccer fans at the Royal Mile in Des Moines, Iowa celebrate Landon Donovan's late goal that gave the U.S. a 1-0 win over Algeria on Wednesday.

Irene, South Africa -- Tim Howard got back to the team hotel after the big win over Algeria, turned on a television and saw David Wright. Then he noticed what the New York Mets third baseman was wearing.

"I guess he went out and bought a Landon Donovan jersey a couple of weeks back, and he wore it yesterday," the American goalkeeper said Thursday. "That's pretty cool, when you see guys like that in other sports, high-level athletes who you respect, getting involved and enjoying our team and our success."

The Americans' opening 1-1 tie with England was seen by 13 million people on ABC, the largest audience to watch the U.S. soccer team since the 1994 World Cup at home. The controversial 2-2 draw with Slovenia was seen by 5.2 million viewers and 3.9 million homes — the most households for soccer in ESPN's history.

Ratings for Wednesday's 1-0 victory over Algeria, when the U.S. advanced to the knockout phase on Landon Donovan's injury-time goal, were to be available later Thursday. Another huge audience is expected for Saturday's second-round game against Ghana, which starts at 2:30 p.m. EDT on ABC. Former President Bill Clinton, who congratulated players in the locker room after the Algeria win, rearranged his schedule to stick around for the Ghana game.

Jozy Altidore, whose cross led to Clint Dempsey's shot and the rebound that Donovan converted, could appreciate the excitement when he saw how many voice mails he received after the game.

"I looked at my phone and I had 134," he said. "Pretty amazing. That means people are taking notice of what we're doing."

When the U.S. team bus pulled up to Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria before the game, the players saw a red-white-and-blue clad crowd waving the Stars and Stripes. Some fans were dressed as Uncle Sam, others as the Statue of Liberty. At the match against England, some American supporters wore Elvis outfits.

"It was pretty sweet driving through and people slapping the bus and the flags waving," captain Carlos Bocanegra said. "It gets us a little bit more pumped up. And it was pretty emotional."

One fan stood out for Altidore.

"There was one kid who ran with the bus for maybe a mile," he said. "His face was painted and everything."

Wright's support was particularly meaningful to Howard.

"Landon scored," he said. "Their first pitch I think wasn't long after that. His Landon jersey was in the clubhouse, and I'm sure it made him feel good. It was almost like he predicted it by wearing the shirt, and I'm sure a lot of his boys in the clubhouse didn't know exactly what it was."

With another win, the U.S. would reach the quarterfinals, something it managed in 2002. With two victories, the Americans would advance to the semifinals for the first time since the original World Cup in 1930, when only 13 nations played.

"Two more wins would be great for us," Altidore said. "But why not four more? Anything's possible. I mean, we're in it to win it."