Neymar scored a goal and was involved in two others as Brazil beat the United States 4-1 in an international friendly on Wednesday night.

AP Photo/Nick WassUnited States' forward Landon Donovan (10) battles for the ball against Brazil's Thiago Silva (3) during the first half of an international friendly soccer game on Wednesday, May 30, 2012, in Landover, Md.

LANDOVER, Maryland (AP) — Neymar scored a goal and was involved in two others as Brazil beat the United States 4-1 in an international friendly on Wednesday night.

The 20-year-old Santos star kicked a penalty to put Brazil ahead in the 12th minute after a hand ball by Oguchi Onyewu and then, 14 minutes later, took a corner kick which Thiago Silva headed in for his first international goal.

Herculez Gomez reduced the margin just before halftime, to the delight of the 67,619-strong crowd at FedEx Field.

But Marcelo restored the two-goal lead in the 52nd, scoring from in front after being left unmarked by Onyewu and U.S. captain Carlos Bocanegra, and second-half substitute Alexandre Pato made it 4-1 with his goal in 87th.

The 29th-ranked Americans, coming off a 5-1 win over Scotland last weekend, had difficulty coping with the pace of the five-time World Cup champions.

Coach Jurgen Klinsmann continued to tinker with his forward line because Jozy Altidore didn't arrive until Monday, and Clint Dempsey is recovering from a groin strain. Dempsey entered in the 57th minute, marking the first time he played with Landon Donovan since Klinsmann replaced Bob Bradley as coach last July.

After winning just one of their first six matches under Klinsmann, the Americans had won five in a row, including an impressive 1-0 victory at Italy. But the time for experimenting under the former German national team star and coach is nearing an end. The U.S. plays at Canada on Sunday, then opens qualifying for the 2014 World Cup on June 8 against Antigua and Barbuda.

That opponent, of course, doesn't resemble sixth-ranked Brazil in any way.

Brazil, which receives an automatic berth as the 2014 World Cup host, improved to 16-1 against the U.S. with a 35-11 goal difference. The Selecao used a young squad as they prepare for the Olympics, which is limited to players under 23 plus three older players.

Neymar scored against the U.S. in his national team debut two years ago. He took the penalty kick Wednesday after the hand ball call on Leandro Damiao's shot went off Onyewu. American goalkeeper Tim Howard dived to his right but Neymar sent the ball the other way for his ninth international goal.

Four-time Memorial champ Woods is still looking for his swing and Nicklaus said every player has to find it himself.

View full sizeAP fileTiger Woods has claimed the Memorial Tournament trophy from Jack Nicklaus four times in his career, the most recent in 2009.

DUBLIN, Ohio -- Seated at The Masters dinner this year between Arnold Palmer and Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus had a question for Woods.

"Why do you need somebody to watch you all the time?" Nicklaus asked, wondering about stories he read of Woods having coach Sean Foley make swing changes for him.

Woods said that wasn't the case, that he merely took Foley's ideas and then went to work himself.

"If you're doing that, you're on the right track," Nicklaus said.

Nicklaus told that story after he was asked about Woods attempting to "own" his swing during his annual Wednesday news conference at the Memorial, the tournament Nicklaus founded in 1976. After winning the Arnold Palmer Invitational in late March, Woods finished 40th at the Masters, then added a missed cut and another 40th place at The Players Championship.

His swing work continues now at the Memorial, a tournament he has won four times, most recently in 2009.

In Nicklaus' mind, the only work that really matters is what a player is able to do himself, even in the middle of a round.

"It's very important for any golfer to understand who they are and what they can do and how they swing and how they can best be their own teacher," Nicklaus said. "I was not hesitant to change my golf swing in the fourth round of the U.S. Open if I didn't like what I was doing."

In this final tuneup for Woods before the U.S. Open begins in two weeks, he'll show again the status of his game.

Chip shots: Tom Watson was the latest legend to be honored by the Memorial Tournament, and Nicklaus choked up while introducing Watson as a friend, competitor and eight-time major champion. Watson gave Nicklaus a long hug after the intro. ...

Woods is paired for the first two rounds with Bill Haas and Fred Couples, who was announced Tuesday as the captain for the Presidents Cup to be played at Muirfield Village in 2013. But the group of the day is the trio of Masters champion and big hitter Bubba Watson; fan favorite Rickie Fowler, who has placed in the top five of his last three tournaments, including a win; and four-time major winner Phil Mickelson. ...

The Memorial is known for drawing rain at some point during the tournament, but for now the course is playing fast. "One out of every 20 years we get fast conditions this time of year," Nicklaus said. "But I think that's good for the golf course. It's good for the tournament."

LeBron James scored 34 points and grabbed 10 rebounds.

AP Photo/Lynne SladkyMiami Heat's LeBron James (6) and Dwyane Wade (3) gesture after the Boston Celtics scored during the second half of Game 2 in their NBA basketball Eastern Conference finals playoffs series, Wednesday, May 30, 2012, in Miami.

MIAMI (AP) — Back and forth they went in overtime, Rajon Rondo and the Miami Heat.

Rondo scored. The Heat answered. Then again. And again.

Eventually, Rondo missed, one of the rare times he didn't deliver on an unforgettable night. Moments later, the Heat took the lead for good, finally able to close out a wild Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals.

LeBron James scored 34 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, Dwyane Wade scored eight of his 23 points in the extra session and the Heat rallied from 15 down to beat the Boston Celtics 115-111 on Wednesday night — taking a 2-0 lead in the series by pulling off the biggest comeback in franchise postseason history.

"One of the best games I've played in, win or lose," Heat forward Shane Battier said. "It's easier said when you win — but it's unbelievable."

Rondo scored all 12 of Boston's points in overtime, capping a 44-point, 10-assist, eight-rebound effort in which he played every second of a 53-minute game. The Heat expected Boston's best — and the Celtics didn't disappoint, yet still head home for Game 3 on Friday night facing a deficit no Boston team has rallied from to win a series since 1969.

"Listen, we played terrific," Celtics coach Doc Rivers said. "I told them, we played extremely hard. I thought we played with great heart tonight, but I didn't think we played smart all the time. And there's things we can absolutely fix, and we'll do that. We'll be ready for Friday."

Mario Chalmers scored 22 for the Heat, who took 47 free throws — 24 by James — to Boston's 29.

"This group had resolve," Wade said of the Celtics. "They came out and played a great game. It was physical early. They brought the game to us. That can't happen. We used our crowd and the energy to get back into the game and we had to play better."

Paul Pierce scored 21 points, Kevin Garnett added 18 and Ray Allen 13 for Boston. Rondo finished 16 of 24 from the floor, 10 of 12 from the foul line and made both his 3-point tries.

"He showed why he's one of the best point guards in this league," Chalmers said.

Rondo shrugged off his night.

"We lost," Rondo said. "Simple as that."

Allen's 3-pointer with 34.3 seconds left tied the game at 99-all. James missed two shots, first a layup — he got the rebound of his own miss — and then a jumper on the final possession of regulation, and to overtime they went.

"We had to do it the tough way," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.

The Heat had come back to win from 14 points down in playoff games twice before, first in Game 6 of the 2006 NBA finals — their title clincher — and again last season against Philadelphia.

And this one was slipping away, more than once. James missed two free throws 21 seconds into overtime, and Miami looked in trouble, especially since Rondo was simply taking over.

When Rondo missed a layup — he thought he was fouled, and the Celtics agreed — with 1:33 left, Miami took advantage, with Udonis Haslem getting a dunk to put the Heat up 105-103. And after a turnover on the next Boston possession, Wade drove the lane, hit the deck and watched as his layup bounced on the rim and dropped through.

Garnett stood over Wade and glared, to no avail. Wade hit the free throw, and Miami was up 110-105 with 59.7 seconds left. By then, the no-call on Rondo had the Celtics seething.

"It was obvious," Rondo said.

Added Allen: "We all thought he got hit. I'll say it. He did, but what can you do about it?"

Miami was down by 15 in the first half and by as many as 11 in the third quarter, before a pair of 3-pointers by James started a comeback. Wade made consecutive jumpers midway through the third to shake off a slow start to his night and get the Heat within three both times, and the 2006 NBA finals MVP set up Haslem for a three-point play with 2:55 left that gave Miami its first lead since the opening minutes, 73-71.

As Haslem's shot dropped, Wade spun at midcourt and punched the air. More highlights followed.

Miami's lead got to as much as seven in the third after James blocked Pierce's shot near the rim, sending the ball high into the air and starting a sequence that was capped by a three-point play from Wade, pushing the margin to 78-71. It capped a 12-0 run for the Heat, who took an 81-75 lead into the fourth.

It was the fifth straight game where Miami outscored its opponent by double-digits in the third quarter. In each of the previous four of those outings, Miami never trailed in the final period.

That streak ended in this one.

"It's been very key for us, whether we're up, whether we're down, to win that quarter," Wade said. "But in the fourth quarter, even when we were down, we felt like we were close enough. ... We never felt like we were out of it."

They weren't out of it — but a call that Boston argued against played a big role in the Celtics getting the lead back.

James stole the ball from Rondo early in the fourth, drove down the court and got wrapped up by Pietrus, who was assessed a clear-path foul, meaning Miami got two free throws and the ball. James missed both foul shots, Mike Miller missed a 3-pointer later in the possession, and the lead stayed at 85-81.

Barely a minute later, it was gone. Pietrus hit a 3-pointer, Rondo followed with a steal and layup and Boston led 86-85. The Celtics led by five with 3:50 left after a jumper by Pierce, and the Celtics looked to be in control.

It was temporary. The Heat scored the next nine points, Haslem's jumper with 1:08 remaining put Miami up 98-94. So of course, back came Boston — Allen's 3-pointer tying the game a few moments after Pierce fouled out.

"Rondo was absolutely amazing," James said. "The performance he put on tonight will go down in the record books. ... It was a battle, and we never felt like we won the game or lost the game when there were zeros on the clock."

NOTES: Celebrities in attendance included UCLA coach Ben Howland, rapper Flo Rida and former Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino, a regular in the Heat crowd. ... Celtics F Greg Stiemsma had four fouls in the first quarter, the first NBA player to do that since 2009. ... Rondo's only other 22-point first half was Feb. 22, 2009 at Phoenix. ... Allen, considered one of the game's absolute best shooters for many years, said he's been getting plenty of unsolicited advice lately on how to get rolling again. "I've only been doing this for 20 years," Allen said at the morning shootaround. ... Haslem (6) had more rebounds than Boston (5) in the third quarter. ... Heat C Ronny Turiaf started, played the first 4:51 and did not return. Joel Anthony started the second half in Turiaf's place.

When: Today through Saturday. Where: All games at Huntington Park, 330 Huntington Park Lane, Columbus. Call 614-462-2757.

Westlake coach Jeff Short.

When: Today through Saturday.

Where: All games at Huntington Park, 330 Huntington Park Lane, Columbus. Call 614-462-2757.

Admission: $8 per game.

TV: None.

DIVISION I

•#18 Westlake (23-6) vs. Massillon Perry (21-10), today, 4 p.m.

About Westlake: The Demons are giving veteran coach Jeff Short a memorable final season, reaching the state semifinals for the first time in school history. While the team does not have anyone batting over .400, it has six players at .300-plus in Jonathan Brick (.394), Danny Strodtbeck (.357), Jamie Lachner (.355), Andy Haders (.313), Corey Bowers (.311) and Kevin Neumann (.303). The team earned-run average -- 3.04 -- is the best since 1996, anchored by Strodtbeck (6-1, 4.33) and the Neumann cousins -- Ben (6-0, 2.29) and Kevin (2-4, 2.60). The Demons are no strangers to the rally cap, having come from behind to win four of their past five games.

About Perry: The Panthers, who finished in a tie for second in the Federal League, have gotten hot at the right time. Right-handers Jacob Flounders (7-1) and Gary Lawrence (4-2) stymied Mayfield and Chardon, respectively, in the regional tournament with Lawrence striking out 15 Chardon batters. Second baseman Sam Mathie leads the team in hits, runs and doubles and is batting .387, and Lawrence is batting .324. Senior Mason Dottavio and freshman Colin Guscoff, son of former Hoban coach Ted Guscoff, lead the team in RBI with 16 and 15, respectively.

•#1 Grove City (25-2) vs. #2 Cincinnati Moeller (22-5), today, 7 p.m.

About Grove City: It's in the semifinals for the second year in a row, having lost to eventual state champ Lakota East in last year's title game. The Greyhounds are scoring about nine runs a game. They are batting .388 and have stolen 94 bases. Senior Mitchell Stephens is 8-0. Other key players are Jimmy Gravett and Tyler Kent.

About Cincinnati Moeller: The Crusaders are in the semifinals for the fourth time in the past five years and for the ninth time overall. The school has won four state titles, the most recent in 2009. Moeller is batting .330 and has hit 14 home runs. The pitching staff has a 2.33 ERA with 225 strikeouts in 195 innings. Junior designated hitter Spencer Iacovone has hit five home runs and is batting .418, one of five regulars batting .345 or better. Senior Brian Burkhart (9-1, 0.82 ERA) pitched a no-hitter in the regional semifinals, and Zach Williams is 5-0 with a 1.97 ERA and has struck out 53 in 32 innings.

Final: Saturday, 1 p.m.

PD pick: Moeller over Westlake.

DIVISION II

•Millersburg West Holmes (23-6) vs. #6 Wapakoneta (24-5), today, 10 a.m.

About West Holmes: The Knights have won more games than any team in school history, which includes wins over second-ranked Cambridge (6-1) and fifth-ranked Richmond Edison (3-1) in the regional final. Left-handers Gabe Snyder (9-0, 0.86 ERA) and Dillon Baird (7-1, 0.92 ERA) are the big guns, with Snyder batting .370 with 24 RBI. Senior center fielder Joe Gonzalez (.511, 25 RBI) and shortstop Keaton Leppla (.345, 36 RBI) drive the offense.

About Wapakoneta: The Redskins beat top-ranked Defiance, 6-1, in regional final. They have outscored seven tournament opponents, 42-5, in reaching their first state semifinals. Pitchers Johnny Crawford (8-0, 66 strikeouts, 0.29 ERA) and Marshall Gerlach (5-0, 0.73 ERA) are at the top of the rotation, and Alex Koch (.378), Josh Apple (.375) and Brandon Miller (.365) are the key hitters.

•#4 Columbus DeSales (24-6) vs. Lake Catholic (20-10), today, 1 p.m.

About DeSales: The Stallions beat Archbishop Hoban to win the state championship last year and many of those players are back. They needed 11 innings to get by Bellefontaine, 8-7, in the regional semifinal. The team's best players are pitcher/infielder T.J. Alas (.458, 34 RBI), third baseman Zak Decamp (.422, 40 RBI) and shortstop Nick Eltzroth (.421, 26 RBI). Alas (8-0, 1.66 ERA) and Eltzroth (4-1-1, 0.87 ERA) are the team's best pitchers.

About Lake Catholic: Starting pitcher Joey Samuele (9-2, 2.25 ERA) and catcher Lou Peterlin (.486, 23 RBI) have been the catalysts on a team that knows how to win. The Cougars won both regional games in walk-off fashion. Down to their final out in both games, the Cougars beat Tallmadge on a two-run single by Trevor Boslett (.317) and made it to today's game when senior right fielder Zach Hawkins (.266) hit a two-run home run -- his first of the year -- to beat Canfield. The Cougars are making an identity for themselves, emerging from the large shadow cast by last year's outstanding squad that didn't get this far. Shortstop Billy Salem (.359) and junior second baseman Jake Courtot (.374) have been consistent all season. Ryan Miller (5-1, 2.39 ERA) will pitch the final if the Cougars win today.

Final: Saturday, 10 a.m.

PD pick: DeSales over Wapakoneta.

DIVISION III

•#7 Wheelersburg (28-2) vs. #18 Fredericktown (23-4), Friday, 10 a.m.

About Wheelersburg: Freshman Wade Martin (.488) and senior Ben Arnold (.456, 17 RBI) are big reasons why the Pirates are in the state semifinals for the third straight year. Martin went 3-for-4, drove in five runs and worked 41/3 innings of splendid relief, and Arnold went 4-for-4 and drove in four runs in a 10-9 win in the regional final. Wheelersburg has 17 shutouts this season, three in the postseason. Junior Derek Moore is 12-0 with a 0.37 ERA.

About Fredericktown: This is the Freddies' first trip to the state semifinals, but they beat a pair of tournament-tested teams in Hamilton Badin and Cincinnati Madiera, last year's state runner-up. They used two suicide squeeze plays in the title win over Badin. Junior Nash Cunningham is the team's top pitcher at 11-1 and is batting .478. Matt Smith is batting .571.

•#2 Orwell Grand Valley (30-1) vs. Lima Central Catholic (21-8)

About Grand Valley: The Mustangs have one of the most prolific offenses in the tournament, having scored 10 or more runs in 23 of their 31 victories. They have outscored opponents, 362-76. Senior Mitchell Lake leads the team with a .574 batting average and has driven in 44 runs. He's also 7-0 as a starting pitcher. Fellow senior Adam Moodt is batting .483 and has 41 RBI, while going 6-1 as a pitcher.

About Lima Central: Pitcher Nick Watkins blanked Bloom-Carroll, 1-0, in the regional final, but it is pitcher Travis Clark that has carried the load. Clark, a senior right-hander, is 8-1 with a 1.94 ERA and has struck out 62 and walked 27 in 65 innings. He's also batting .333.

Final: Saturday, 4 p.m.

PD pick: Grand Valley over Wheelersburg.

DIVISION IV

•#3 Defiance Tinora (27-3) vs. #13 Minster (24-6), Friday, 4 p.m.

About Tinora: A state semifinalist for the second year in a row but for the first time in Division IV, the Rams have scored 10 or more runs 16 times with eight shutouts. Tyler McKenney is 10-0 with a 0.88 ERA, striking out 87 in 64 innings, and Reid Renollet is 6-0 with a 1.93 ERA. Clay Pittman (.574, 45 RBI) and Derek Dewes (.461, 31 RBI) power the potent offense.

About Minster: From the demanding Midwest Athletic Conference, the reigning state champions have set a school record for victories. Senior Austin Knapke is 8-2 with a 1.60 ERA and has walked just eight. Junior Adam Niemeyer is a double threat with a .429 average and 25 RBI and has yet to give up an earned run while going 5-0. Jay Eilerman (.349), Doug Huber (.337) and Devon Poeppelman (.330) are the key hitters.

•#10 Berlin Hiland (25-4) vs. #11 Cuyahoga Heights (23-4), Friday, 7 p.m.

About Hiland: Coached by former Villa Angela-St. Joseph/Purdue star Tom Gibson, the team is led by Dylan Kaufman with a .422 average and 19 RBI. Grant Troyer (.393. 28 RBI), B.J. Miller (.397, 34 RBI) and Ryan Troyer (26 RBI) produce the bulk of the offense, while Miller (6-0, 1.79 ERA) and Sheldon Mullet (5-0, 0.93 ERA) handle the pitching.

About Cuyahoga Heights: It has been 36 years since the Redskins were in this position. Dynamite pitching by Austin Lane (8-0, 1.45 ERA) and Alex Zander (7-1, 0.83 ERA) have led to a team ERA of 1.45. Lane (.437, 25 RBI) and Zander (.361, 17 RBI) also contribute offensively, but Troy Janashak and senior catcher Andrew Tesler have been the biggest producers. Tesler is batting .432 and has knocked in a team-leading 34 runs, while Janashak, a senior shortstop, is right behind with 33 RBI and a .400 average. The Redskins, state runner-up in 1976 under Hall of Famer Art Massey, have 12 shutouts on the season.

Final: Saturday, 7 p.m.

PD pick: Cuyahoga Heights over Defiance Tinora.

-- Tim Rogers

When: Today through Saturday. Where: All games at Firestone Stadium, 1575 N. Firestone Blvd., Akron. Call 330-375-2855.

Keystone third baseman Bee Shaw handles a throw during a game against Firestone. The Wildcats take on Poland Seminary in a Division II state semifinal on Friday. - (John Kuntz, PD)

When: Today through Saturday.

Where: All games at Firestone Stadium, 1575 N. Firestone Blvd., Akron. Call 330-375-2855.

Admission: $8 per session (two games).

TV: SportsTime Ohio will televise the games on a tape-delayed basis on Saturday: Division IV at 5 p.m., Division III at 7 p.m., Division II at 9 p.m., and Division I at 11 p.m.

DIVISION I

•#5 Medina (24-4) vs. #1 North Canton Hoover (27-3), Friday, 3 p.m.

About Medina: The Battling Bees reached their state-tourney debut on the arm and bat of Hampton recruit Bobbi Langlois (22-3, 0.96 ERA; .313 batting average, 17 RBI). First baseman Madison Tata (.483, 25 RBI), shortstop Vanessa Scoarste (.427, eight home runs, 36 runs, 11 stolen bases) and catcher Maria Vanadia (.352, 30 RBI, six HR) have proved dangerous all season.

About Hoover: The defending champ Vikings seek their sixth crown with speed and experience behind catcher/Kent State recruit Erika Warren (.433, five HR, 46 RBI), shortstop/Oregon recruit Jenna Lilley (.675, six HR, 44 RBI, 24 doubles, six triples), and pitchers Caly Russo (10-2, 1.97 ERA) and Tara Thacker (15-1, 1.05 ERA).

•#3 Elyria (26-2) vs. #2 Lebanon (30-1), Friday, 5:30 p.m.

About Elyria: The Pioneers, who have won two titles in eight previous appearances, have a balanced offense, led by second baseman/Cleveland State recruit Darien Ward (.483, 20 SB), outfielder/Wright State recruit Alanna Williams (.477, 12 SB, 36 runs, 19 RBI) and third baseman Melanie Woodard (.470, 34 runs, 19 RBI). Caitlyn Minney's the mound ace (21-1, 1.34 ERA) but has solid relief in Coppin State recruit Alyssa Barker (5-1, 2.40 ERA).

About Lebanon: The Warriors are in their first state semifinals despite graduating seven players from a year ago. Shortstop/Thomas More recruit Ana Walter (.430, 29 runs, 31 RBI) is the lone starting senior. She is surrounded by some quality juniors, including second baseman Vanessa Lay (.495, 42 runs, and a school-record 57 RBI) and third baseman/Ohio University recruit Casie Hutchinson (.495, 43 runs, 42 RBI). Freshman pitcher Tara Trainer is 15-1 with a 0.63 ERA.

Final: Saturday, 7 p.m.

PD pick: Elyria over North Canton Hoover.

DIVISION II

•Circleville Logan Elm (21-10) vs. #4 Greenville (28-4), Friday, 10 a.m.

About Logan Elm: The Braves want to make a good impression in their state-tourney debut and have some talented players to do so. Pitcher Tiffany Bise (7-5, 1.89 ERA) and first baseman Paige Gardner (.423) are two of four starting seniors. Sophomore second baseman Mandy Grambo (.563, 9 HR, 48 RBI) has performed beyond her years.

About Greenville: The Green Wave, seeking their second crown in three attempts, is paced by pitcher Ashley Hanes (21-3, 1.75 ERA, .405 batting average, 32 RBI), and a supporting cast headed by shortstop Kelly Martin (.440, 49 runs, five HR, 36 RBI), catcher Paige Wolter (.550, 26 RBI, eight triples) and third baseman Kayla Harsherbarger (.475, 28 runs, 35 RBI).

•#2 Poland Seminary (26-2) vs. #1 Keystone (30-0), Friday, 12:30 p.m.

About Poland Seminary: The defending champ Bulldogs are in their fourth straight state tournament with pitcher/Tennessee recruit Erin Gabriel (14-1, 0.68 ERA; .477 batting average, 29 RBI). Also, pitcher/third baseman and Miami recruit Jenna Modic (8-1, 0.85 ERA; .500 batting average, 36 RBI) is capable of stepping in if needed.

About Keystone: The Wildcats, who have won two titles in 12 previous trips, have hit a state-record 45 homers, led by pitcher/Akron recruit Kenzie Conrad (.489, 11 HR, 43 RBI; 23-0, 0.17 ERA), shortstop/Akron recruit Erin Pond (.536, nine HR, 45 RBI) and catcher/Ashland recruit Bri Buckley (.506, seven HR, 47 RBI).

Final: Saturday, 4 p.m.

PD pick: Keystone over Greenville.

DIVISION III

•#1 Milan Edison (30-1) vs. #2 Carroll Bloom-Carroll (28-3), today, 3 p.m.

About Milan Edison: The state-tourney rookie Chargers have the pressure of a No. 1 ranking, but pitcher Susan Knight (27-1, 0.48 ERA, .482 batting average, 36 RBI) gives them a good chance. Third baseman Gabby Stoll (.515, seven HR, 56 RBI, 45 runs, 11 SB) hasn't played like a freshman. Outfielder Karyn Schmidt (.456, 44 runs, 31 RBI) also leads the offense.

About Bloom-Carroll: The Bulldogs have yet to lose a state tourney game after reigning in 2006 and '07. Pitcher Taran Alvelo (25-2, 0.49 ERA, .366 batting average), third baseman Haley Starr (.361) and shortstop Abby Grover (.318) hope to extend that streak.

•#8 Felicity-Franklin (24-0) vs. #3 Warren Champion (22-3), today, 5:30 p.m.

About Felicity-Franklin: The Cardinals earned their state-tourney debut on the strength of catcher Hillary White (.414) and coach Bob Wear's daughter, pitcher Montana Wear (22-0, 0.15 ERA).

About Champion: The Golden Flashes, who last year won their fourth title in six trips, survived a lot of position changes. Haley McCallister (.329, 17 RBI) moved from second base to shortstop, Brooke Culler (.308, 13 RBI) went from the outfield to second base and Emilee Hohvart (.358) went from third base to the outfield. Pitcher Lindsay Swipas (20-1, 0.88 ERA) has remained a dominating force.

Final: Saturday, 1 p.m.

PD pick: Milan Edison over Warren Champion.

DIVISION IV

•#4 Covington (25-4) vs. #10 Vienna Mathews (24-5), today, 10 a.m.

About Covington: The Buccs, who are in the state semifinals for the third time, are loaded with tourney-tested experience in outfielders Shaina Grilliot, Haley Adams and Hannah Pond, pitcher Casey Yingst (21-2, 1.12 ERA), third baseman Heidi Snipes (.425, 33 RBI, 28 SB), second baseman Jessie Shilt (.464, 30 RBI, 24 SB) and catcher Connor Shaffer (.433, 30 RBI).

About Mathews: The Mustangs stampeded into their first state tourney on the arm of freshman Cheyenne Eggens (22-3, 0.34 ERA), along with a seasoned support system led by catcher Hollie Schreves, shortstop Jessica Marsico (.387), outfielders Tabby Granelly (.485) and Maddie Williams, first baseman Maddi Grimes (.363) and third baseman Jacki Rhine.

•#1 Strasburg-Franklin (25-4) vs. #3 Convoy Crestview (26-5), today, 12:30 p.m.

About Strasburg-Franklin: The Tigers last year won their sixth title in 12 tries. Third baseman Nicki Cregan (.388, 22 RBI), shortstop Mariah Crites (.341, 24 RBI) and catcher Kylie Flickinger (.338, 24 RBI) are the lone seniors and a strong supporting cast for blossoming pitcher Kristina LaRocca (23-3, 1.01 ERA)

About Crestview: The one-time champion Knights are in their 10th state tourney and veterans such as outfielders McKenzie Nofer (.415) and Taylor Hamrick (.396) and first baseman Taylor Springer (.427) have some unfinished business.

Final: Saturday, 10 a.m.

PD pick: Convoy Crestview over Covington.

-- Bob Fortuna

When, where: Friday and Saturday, Ohio State University, Jesse Owens Stadium, 2450 Fred Taylor Drive, Columbus. Schedule:Friday -- 9:30 a.m., Division II field events, Division III 4x800 final and track prelims; 1 p.m., Division III field events, Division II 4x800 final and track prelims; 4 p.m., Division III field events; 4:45 p.m., Division I 4x800 final, track prelims. Saturday...

St. Edward junior Anthony Young is the defending Division I state champion in the 200 meters. - (Gus Chan, PD)

When, where: Friday and Saturday, Ohio State University, Jesse Owens Stadium, 2450 Fred Taylor Drive, Columbus.

Schedule:Friday -- 9:30 a.m., Division II field events, Division III 4x800 final and track prelims; 1 p.m., Division III field events, Division II 4x800 final and track prelims; 4 p.m., Division III field events; 4:45 p.m., Division I 4x800 final, track prelims. Saturday -- 9 a.m., Division II field events; 9:30 a.m., Division III track finals; noon, Division I field events; 1 p.m., Division II track finals; 3 p.m., Division I field events; 4:30 p.m., Division I track finals.

Tickets: $10.

DIVISION I

BOYS OUTLOOK

In the team race, the scratch of St. Edward's 4x200 meter relay at regional because two runners were late looms large. That opens the door for Thomas Worthington, which could score 26-30 points in the three sprint relays, but has little else, and Pickerington North, which can score in three relays, two field events and both hurdles. St. Edward counters with junior Anthony Young, the defending 200 champ who also is a 100 contender and anchors a strong 4x100 relay. The Eagles can win their first track title if they get high places from Aaron Zedella (shot put and discus) as well as points from Shaun Crawford (100), Steele Wasik (110 hurdles) and Chris Jones (400). Cleveland Heights' potential winning combination features Shelton Gibson in the 100, 200, 4x100 and 4x200, as well as Bryce Jones in the 110 hurdles and long jump, and that could work. Donovan Robertson scored all 28 points for third-place Berea last year when he won both hurdles and was second in the 200. He should repeat in the hurdles, but withdrew from the 100 and 200 at the regionals, and joined the 4x400. The Braves need points from Dan Zupan (1,600) and a big relay finish. Solon also could win it. Khoury Crenshaw is capable of winning the 100 and 200 and leading Solon in the 4x100. Solon also is counting on points from hurdler Rod Jackson (110), Reggie Jaggers (discus) and Karl Pierce (pole vault). Other teams to watch include Dublin Coffman, Lancaster, Cincinnati Mount Healthy and Trotwood Madison.

Individually, Robertson is heavily favored to win his third 300 hurdles title and second 110 championship. His decision to forego the 100 and 200 could leave him strong enough to break one or both hurdles records (13.30 and 36.34). The state 100 dash record (10.38) could be in jeopardy. Young has the state's fastest Division I times in the 100 (10.43) and 200 (21.31) this season, but Solon's Crenshaw is the fastest qualifier in both events (10.56 and 21.48). Cleveland Heights' Gibson also is a factor in the 100. Young, Crenshaw and Gibson lead a crowded 200 field of sub-22 runners that also includes Hudson junior Leighton Antonio, Kenston junior Darryl Richards and Mount Healthy senior Vince Turnage. John F. Kennedy junior Antwon Smith is the lone sub-48 qualifier in the 400 (47.94), and the Senate's best hope for a state champ. He also anchors JFK's contending 4x200. Lancaster defending 1,600 champ Brannon Kidder is the top qualifier in that race and the 800. Behind Kidder in the 1,600 is a pack that includes Twinsburg sophomore Garrett Crichlow, Riverside senior Zack McBride and Avon Lake senior Francesco Maiorca. Mentor's Max Ostrowski, Midpark's Lou Styles, Nordonia's Troy Mulhall and Medina's Robert Robertson are part of a strong area 800 contingent. Reynoldsburg senior Tsehaye Hiluf is the defending 3,200 and cross-country champ, but don't be surprised to see Copley's Nick Pupino or Chardon's Nick Elswick in close pursuit. In the long jump, Firestone's Evan Payne, Brush's Jalen Yancy (fourth last year), Lorain's Reggie Williams, and Cleveland Heights' Jones all could win. State record holder Jacob Blankenship (17-1) of Gahanna Lincoln is the pole vaulter to beat, and Midpark's Aaron Owens should be there at the end. St. Ignatius' Blake Thomas is a threat in the discus.

GIRLS OUTLOOK

In the team competition, defending champion Reynoldsburg will get challenged by a strong Solon contingent. Reynoldsburg, with six girls in seven events, returns senior champion Destinee Gause in both the 100 and 200. She will also go in solid 4x100 and 4x200 relays. Senior Faith Washington will go in those relays as well as both hurdles. The Comets match the Raiders with six girls, but are in nine events. Senior Therese Haiss is top contender for 800, along with 1,600 and 4x400. Sophomore Jelvon Butler will challenge in 200 and is solid in three relays. Sophomore Alexis Gray can win discus and score in shot put. Senior Paige Yeager needs a best effort in 300 hurdles and adds more depth in three relays. Lorain and Medina figure to force the issue. The Titans have four entrants in six events, but hurt themselves after 4x200 disqualification at regional. Seniors Melody Farris (100 and 300 hurdles) and Alicia Arnold (100 and 200) will go in four events as they add 4x100 and 4x400. Sophomore Jocelynn Rogers will be in those relays as well as the 200. Medina brings nine runners, but can score in only five events. Senior Anna Boyert was third in 1,600 last year and also goes in 800 and 4x800. Senior Ali Kovarik may sneak some points in long jump. Brunswick senior Brianna Neitzel will defend her title in 400 and also goes in 100 and 4x400. Senior Selena Pasadyn looks for points in both 1,600 and 3,200. West Geauga junior Chantel Richardson is the other area champ returning as she defends 100 hurdles title. She will also go in the long jump. Shaker Heights will have shot with seniors Naleta Andrews in 400 and Amber Davis in 800, with both going in 4x200 and 4x400. Brecksville-Broadview Heights will go same route with seniors Veronica Thompson in 400 and Megan Beaver in 800, both also in 4x400 and 4x800. Euclid has lone duo of seniors Artia Gunn in 100 hurdles and Emily Sweet in 3,200. Rocky River is counting on senior Elyse Bierut in 3,200, with team entered in 4x400 and 4x800. Magnificat finds itself in similar state with two distance relays and seniors Rachel Hlatky in 200 and Abigail Marquard in 800. Avon Lake junior Christine Bohan is in shot put, pole vault and high jump, with senior teammate Katy Link looking to score in 1,600. Buchtel is limited to senior Tykeshia Thompson in 400, with a pair of relays in 4x100 and 4x800. Junior Taylor McDonald is lone entrant from Nordonia with big shot in 300 hurdles. Green junior Morgan Estes can make her mark in pole vault.

DIVISION II

BOYS OUTLOOK

St. Vincent-St. Mary won its first track title last year and defends with three qualified relays and six individuals in five events. Its 4x800, second and fourth the past two years, should finally win. The relay features 800 top qualifier Sean Poholski, 3,200 top qualifier Mick Iacofano and 1,600 contender Patrick O'Brien. Sophomores Parris Campbell and Franshon Bickley qualified in the 100 and lead the 4x100 and 4x200 relays. SVSM's chief rivals will be 2011 runner-up Dayton Dunbar, Dayton Thurgood Marshall and Columbus Eastmoor. University School senior Declan Starrett is the second-fastest qualifier in the 100 and 200. Cleveland Central Catholic's Keith Hemphill is the third-fastest 400 qualifier. Others to watch include: Padua hurdler Vinnie Minosky, CVCA hurdler Evan Carroscia, Buchtel's Romello Cook (110 hurdles), Woodridge's Drake Sulzer (1,600), Orange's Will Carter (200, long jump), Padua's Evan Bialoski and Medina's Ryan Gallagher (3,200), Manchester's Cort Logan (long jump), Elyria Catholic's Lucas Ball (pole vault) and Clearview's Gerrell Williams and Fairview's Rory Juhn (high jump).

GIRLS OUTLOOK

Defending champion Columbus Bishop Hartley and runner-up Toledo Rogers moved to Division I this year. St. Vincent-St. Mary, third a year ago, has the numbers with nine girls in 10 events to bring home the title. Depth will pay off in three relays -- 4x200, 4x400 and 4x800 -- with senior Tessa Weigand in the 800, sophomore Marie Hammer in 300 hurdles, freshman Imani Davis in 200, junior Marissa Rossetti in 3,200 and sophomore Chelsea Laury in 400. More points will come from senior Megan Tomei in the discus and shot put. Team challenge will come from Columbus Eastmoor Academy and Dayton Chaminade-Julienne, but neither has the numbers. Eastmoor junior Aaliyah Barnes returns to defend 100 title, but not 200. Freshman teammate Cheyane Carter has top time going in 200. Vermilion can make a statement with senior Emily Cunningham in four events -- 100, 200 and two relays -- with sophomore Hannah Bartlome contributing in high jump and 4x100 and 4x200. CVCA brings eight athletes in six events. Freshman Autumn Young goes on big stage in 100 and long jump, along with 4x200. Freshman Sammy Bockoven is entered in the 1,600, 3,200 and 4x800 relay, while senior Sarah MacIntosh will go in the 3,200. Senior Shavonna Jackson is lone entrant from Warrensville Heights and has big shot in 400. Streetsboro sophomore Destiny King will have to contend with Chaminade-Julienne senior Cierra Brown in 100 hurdles. Brown also is top threat in 300 jumps. Minerva junior Kaele Lightfoot in 800 and senior Logan Rowe from Washington Court House in the high jump are the division's other returning champions.

DIVISION III

BOYS OUTLOOK

One of the weekend's best stories could be Villa Angela-St. Joseph's boys, who have risen from barely fielding a team in recent years to a state contender. The Vikings have the top 4x100 and 4x200 relays. The 4x200 set a Division III state record last week (1:28.01) and the 4x100 won in 42.95. However, VASJ received poor preliminary heat draws, with two runners in the same heats in both the 100 and 200. Rodney Burse and Devon Bolden are 100 qualifiers, and Marcellus Embry and Milton Germany are in the 200. VASJ probably would need all four to score to have a chance at team hardware. The long-lived distance rivalry between Berkshire senior Matt Pelletier and Independence senior Ryan Polman takes one last tour in the 3,200. Pelletier was second last year and Polman placed fourth (in Division II). Independence's Brian Calvey is a rare freshman regional champ and the fourth-fastest qualifier in the 400. Rootstown's David Paliscak has the third-best discus throw.

GIRLS OUTLOOK

Everything would have to break just right for Gilmour Academy to come through the winner, but on paper Versailles, last year's runner-up to Steubenville Catholic Central, looks to be the favorite. The Tigers qualified in all three relays and bring 11 runners in seven events. Senior Tammy Berger, last year's 3,200 champ, will go in the 1,600, in which she was second a year ago, and the 800. Gilmour brings five runners in seven events, qualifying in both distance relays. Junior Alexis Anton looks to move up from a fourth-place finish in last year's 800 and adds 1,600. Sophomore Halle Markel was second in 3,200 a year ago. Junior Briah Owens has huge potential for points in 100 and 200. Junior Meghan Pryatel and freshman Caitlin Whetstone are counted on for best efforts in 4x400 and 4x800. Senior Chelsi Collins is the lone runner from St. Peter Chanel and goes in 100 and 200. She will have to face returning 200 champion Crystal Barber of Rittman, who will also be favored in 100. Berkshire freshman Suzanne Koziol goes in 300 hurdles and is part of a very young 4x800 squad. Hawken junior Alexandra Markovich is the lone Hawk to qualify (3,200), with Independence sophomore Deanna Gesicki going alone in 400. Trinity will send out three relay teams. Cuyahoga Heights has lone 4x200, with Elyria Catholic soloing in 4x100. Senior Erika Armstead from Cincinnati Country Day is the division's returning long jump champion.

-- Joe Maxse, Tim Warsinskey

The Indians need help in replacing injured Travis Hafner. Who they gonna call? Apparently not Matt LaPorta, Bud Shaw writes in his Spin column.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerSo far this season, Matt LaPorta has literally been twice the hitter in Columbus as he is when the Clippers go on the road. That's not exactly the consistency that the Indians are looking for with a depleted lineup.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Don't look toward Columbus for the cavalry to arrive...

The menacing right-handed hitter the Indians could use is visiting Cleveland this week. It's a shame Albert Belle has a troublesome hip, is 12 years removed from his last at-bat and is here only to play in the Indians' annual golf outing.

That leaves Johnny Damon as the immediate replacement for Travis Hafner at DH, a satisfying alternative only if you don't put too much emphasis on the "hitter" part of the job title. In 24 games, he's batting .171 with one home run and five RBI. It's hard to imagine the 38-year-old Damon replicating his 16 home run, 73-RBI season a year ago in Tampa or, certainly, the 22 home runs and 84 RBI amassed with the Yankees in 2009.

Reason for even less optimism is that the Indians can actually justify Damon as a better, more dependable fix than calling up Matt LaPorta from Columbus.

LaPorta's 2012 season is a fun-house mirror. His numbers change shape depending on how you look at them. His season to date: .304 batting average, 13 homers, 30 RBI. He is tearing it up, but only at home. Twelve of his home runs have come at home where he is hitting .360. On the road he's batting .236.

In April, LaPorta hit .380. In May, he's hitting .228. With runners in scoring position, he's batting .184.

You can make numbers do anything you want, but it doesn't take much for LaPorta's to raise a red flag or three given his history of looking good at Triple A only to lose his polish here.

The Indians have always wanted more consistency from him, along with a better approach at the plate and big-league mechanics. He had an outside chance to win a job in spring training, but looked awful in the early part of camp and seemed defeated by the odds.

He's 27 now. Any chance you'll someday be talking about the C.C. Sabathia trade in glowing terms seems almost totally lost. Because if the time isn't right for LaPorta with Hafner on the DL again, with Damon struggling and given the desperate need for a right-handed bat, then LaPorta must dangerously close to running out of time.

Get ready for Christmas in July...

Metta World Peace wishes everyone only happiness. That's the kind of benevolent person he is, at least when he isn't elbowing and clothes-lining opponents.

"Happy Labor Day,"World Peace Tweeted Monday. "Enjoy it."

If that's me or you, we say obviously we meant Memorial Day. But MWP first mentioned partying too late Sunday night, then said he's not familiar with religious holidays, then mentioned his poor education background in history.

Somewhere in and around all that he Tweeted, "Really terrible mistake today." I think when some military veterans in his family let him know about it.

I'm pretty sure he then asked about the family gift exchange on July 4...

How does this stuff get out?...

Offensive lineman Logan Tuley-Tillman committed to Brady Hoke's Michigan Wolverines. To show his excitement, he posted a picture on Twitter.

Waving a Michigan flag? No. Decked in blue and maize? No. He posted a picture burning a recruiting letter from Ohio State.

Angry Buckeyes' fans responded about how you'd expect.

"It was more of a personal thing [to burn it]," Tuley-Tillman said. "I didn't think it would get this much attention."

Amazing how those private moments get attention when you make them public.

SPINOFFS

View full sizeVictoria Will, Associated PressNow you see Terrell Owens, now you don't. For the Indoor Football League's Allen Wrangers ... they'd rather not.

The Allen Wranglers of the Indoor Football League waived wide receiver and part owner Terrell Owens, citing T.O.'s "lack of effort both on and off the field" after the team said he refused to play in two upcoming games and missed a scheduled appearance with teammates and coaches at a local hospital.

How much worse can it get than standing up sick people for a guy recently pummeled on "Dr. Phil" for his irresponsible behavior? How about sick kids?...

It's understandable if Jim Brown's opinion on running backs is sought after, just so we're clear that the next five minutes of game tape he watches on Trent Richardson will be the first five minutes of game tape he watches on Trent Richardson...

Chris Perez says he heard through the grapevine that KC's Jarrod Dyson said the Royals were coming after him and the Indians. And that's why he made his "U Can't See Me" gesture borrowed from WWE's John Cena after striking Dyson out Monday.

I'd say getting worked up over the Royals is like sending the Marines to take on Monaco -- except Monaco just won two out of three falls...

Kevin Garnett says the Miami Heat "showboated" towards the end of Monday's Game 1 victory over Boston. Being accused of showboating by the scowlingest, chest-thumpingest player in the NFL is like Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens accusing you of hiding something...

The Roger Clemens trial is seven weeks old and his defense team is just getting ready to make its case. The Elias Sports Bureau now lists it as the longest, most deliberate, painful-to-follow outing involving a pitcher not named Ubaldo Jimenez...

View full sizeJohn Kuntz, PDHe's not on a mound, but they're talking about his fastballs in Berea.

ProFootballTalk.com carried a story about Tom Brady's father saying he'd be "hesitant" to let his son play football as a boy knowing what he knows about concussions.

Says PFT: "Will there still be risks? Sure. But unless we want our children's only activity to consist of playing Trivial Pursuit from the wrong side of a plastic bubble, there will always be risks."

So there you have the choices. Life in the bubble or brain-rattling collisions. Nothing -- not baseball, golf, tennis, basketball -- in between.

SEPARATED AT BIRTH

Brandon Weeden and Royals pitcher Nathan Adcock -- Pat

Chris Perez and Angry Bird -- Ron

HE SAID IT

View full sizeAP fileIn 30 big-league appearances, he's got just one win. Then again, he's with the Royals.

"I guess he felt like he struck out Albert Pujols or something. It was a little disrespectful." – K.C.'s Dyson, upset that Indians closer Perez made a pro wrestling gesture after striking him out Monday.

On the list of good comebacks, identifying yourself as a hitter a pitcher should expect to strike out isn't one of them.

YOU SAID IT

(The Expanded Midweek Edition)

"Hey Bud:

"Good picks on the 10 Toughest Reads in Lit. Does Barnes and Noble carry Cliff's Notes for the Sunday Spin?" -- Literally yours, Kurt Landefeld, Huron

No, but based on its bottom line, I'd have to think Borders did.

"Hey Bud:

"Based strictly on hair styles, Tribe closer Chris Perez and backup catcher Luke Carlin are truly the Tribe's odd couple. Does the PD have a hair code or are sports writers free to choose the style that fits their personality?" -- Dr. Grinder

Pending our next contract, I am free to go bald at my own rapid pace.

"Bud:

"Wouldn't it boost attendance if they got Flo to pitch an inning or two at Progressive Field?" -- Michael Sarro

I'll check, but I believe she pitched the top of the second Tuesday night.

"Bud:

"Do you read your press clippings?" -- Tom Hoffner, Broadview Heights

The nicest thing critics have said about Spin is also the advice I've received from golf instructors. Take two weeks off and quit.

"Bud:

"Is the Browns' front office concerned that Seneca Wallace is amenable to mentoring Brandon Weeden and sharing the secrets of how to achieve back-to-back 5-11 seasons?" -- Chas K, Cleveland Heights

First-time "You Said It" winners receive a T-shirt from the Mental Floss collection.

"Bud:

"Can you bet against Cleveland sports in the new casino?" -- Rick G

Repeat winners get barred.

"Dear Bud:

"I can't imagine you writing 13 great Spin columns in a row and then being booed by Cleveland fans; in fact, I can't even imagine you writing 13 great Spin columns in a row." -- Vince G, Cincinnati

Some repeat winners expect to be let down.

On Twitter: @budshaw

The legality of the meeting became an issue after The Plain Dealer reported Richard Knoth's concern at the time as part of a May 10, 2012, article about the FBI issuing a subpoena to the port authority for records related to parking agreements with the Browns.

Chuck Crow, Plain Dealer fileThe Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority is one of several stakeholders with interests along the downtown Cleveland lakefront.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — During a meeting of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority one year ago, Richard Knoth said he believed two fellow directors on the authority's governing board met illegally with the Cleveland Browns.

Today, authority board Chairman Robert Smith and authority President William Friedman deny anything was improper about the meeting, which included themselves, board secretary Anthony Moore, and others.

"It was a completely appropriate and legitimate meeting," Friedman said.

The legality of the meeting became an issue after The Plain Dealer reported Knoth's concern at the time as part of a May 10, 2012, article about the FBI issuing a subpoena to the port authority for records related to parking agreements with the Browns.

The newspaper's story referenced port authority meeting minutes, which stated that Knoth objected to the presence of two board members at a session in which Browns officials discussed their development proposals for the lakefront.

Knoth contended that the meeting was illegal because the two board members represented a majority of the authority's "executive committee," according to the minutes.

Friedman and Smith said after the article appeared that the authority does not have an executive committee and therefore no violation of the open meeting law could have occurred. The port has three formal committees that include all seven board members.

Knoth said Wednesday he still believes the meeting may have been inappropriate. While the authority's by-laws don't call for an executive committee, he said, every board has a de facto executive committee that includes the chairman, vice chairman and secretary. In this case, the chairman, Smith, and secretary, Moore, were present at the same meeting discussing port matters, he said.

Again, Friedman and Smith disagree with Knoth.

"I don't concur that there is such a thing as a de facto executive committee," Friedman said. "Our outside general counsel also doesn't buy that."

The meeting took place March 30, 2011, at Browns Stadium and included the port officials, several Browns' representatives and Chris Warren, chief of regional development for the City of Cleveland.

Friedman said authority Vice Chairman Marc Krantz was asked to participate but couldn't make it.

The purpose was to discuss the Browns' ideas for development around the stadium, Friedman and Smith said.

During the meeting, no decisions were made, Friedman and Smith said. The port officials simply shared information about the port and its operations to help the Browns prepare a vision of future development along the lakefront, Friedman and Smith said.

Friedman and Smith said they believe the Browns made similar overtures to other neighbors along the lakefront.

"I think in this case I wanted Bob [Smith] and Tony [Moore] to hear what the Browns were proposing and be a part of receiving this information," Friedman said of the meeting.

Browns general counsel Fred Nance said Knoth's claim that the port authority's participation in the meeting was somehow inappropriate is "ridiculous."

The Browns made a public announcement on April 19, 2011, outlining a mixed-used project that would include athletic fields and a possible sports-medicine or wellness facility on more than 20 acres north of the stadium. Its plans also included a possible 1,000-car parking garage to the south with an enclosed pedestrian walkway over the East Shoreway.

Knoth said the bigger issue in his mind is whether port directors should have independent discussions with their vendors or customers. Knoth said those interactions should be left to port authority staff.

If Browns officials wanted feedback from port authority directors about future development around the stadium, Knoth said, they should have come to a public meeting of the port authority board.

Friedman said board members attending meetings with customers or other parties is appropriate as long as there is not a violation of the open meetings law.

"I think board members on occasion certainly have the right to speak with port vendors and port customers," he said. " . . . I think it goes along with their oversight duties and responsibilities."

Whatever comes out of those meetings should be shared with the rest of the board, Friedman said.

"I think that was the intent and I think that's what occurred," Friedman said of the meeting with the Browns.

Smith, who is on the board of directors of the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation and is well-schooled in public meeting statutes, said if he had the meeting to do over again, he would.

"In my heart of hearts, that's not a public meeting," he said.

How is Kyrie Irving, the NBA's Rookie of the Year, preparing for next season? CineSport's Noah Coslov catches up with the Cavaliers' point guard at the NBA Draft Lottery in New York.

How is Kyrie Irving, the NBA's Rookie of the Year, preparing for next season? CineSport's Noah Coslov catches up with the Cavaliers' point guard at the NBA Draft Lottery in New York.

More NBA Draft Lottery coverage:

No lottery luck for Cavaliers, who fall to fourth in June's NBA draft after lottery

Inside the NBA draft lottery: Some tantalizing moments, but finally frustration for Cavaliers

Cavaliers Insider: GM Chris Grant 'feels great' with fourth pick

Terry Pluto: Cavaliers didn't win lottery, but Kansas' Thomas Robinson would be a fine draft choice

Cavaliers get 4th pick: Mary Schmitt Boyer's video analysis

Video: Chris Grant talks about getting No. 4 pick in draft and the possibility of trading up

Video: NBA Draft Lottery recap with Glenn Moore and Brendan Bowers

Cavaliers get 4th pick: What they're saying on Twitter

Photo gallery: Cavaliers get fourth pick in the draft

The Cleveland Cavaliers received the 4th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft and look to get Kyrie Irving some help. CineSport's Noah Coslov and The Plain Dealer's Mary Schmitt Boyer discuss.

The Cleveland Cavaliers received the 4th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft and look to get Kyrie Irving some help. CineSport's Noah Coslov and The Plain Dealer's Mary Schmitt Boyer discuss.

More NBA Draft Lottery coverage:

No lottery luck for Cavaliers, who fall to fourth in June's NBA draft after lottery

Inside the NBA draft lottery: Some tantalizing moments, but finally frustration for Cavaliers

Cavaliers Insider: GM Chris Grant 'feels great' with fourth pick

Terry Pluto: Cavaliers didn't win lottery, but Kansas' Thomas Robinson would be a fine draft choice

Video: Kyrie Irving at the NBA Draft Lottery

Video: Chris Grant talks about getting No. 4 pick in draft and the possibility of trading up

Video: NBA Draft Lottery recap with Glenn Moore and Brendan Bowers

Cavaliers get 4th pick: What they're saying on Twitter

Photo gallery: Cavaliers get fourth pick in the draft

Highlights include Memorial Tournament first-round play on the Jack Nicklaus-designed Muirfield Village Golf Club course in Dublin, near Columbus. Indians are idle.

Associated PressBubba Watson, shown here after winning the Masters on April 8, will play the first two rounds of the Memorial Tournament in a group with Phil Mickelson and Rickie Fowler. First-round play will be televised today at 3 on the Golf Channel.

In becoming their latest victim, the New Jersey Devils quickly learned they are not facing the likes of the Panthers, Flyers or Rangers. Los Angeles is a super team right now and New Jersey needs to pick up its game if it wants any hope of lifting the Stanley Cup.

NEWARK, N.J. — It doesn't matter whom Los Angeles Kings face or where they play.

East. West. High seed. Low seed. The results haven't changed this postseason.

W after W after W.

In becoming their latest victim, the New Jersey Devils quickly learned they are not facing the likes of the Panthers, Flyers or Rangers. Los Angeles is a super team right now and New Jersey needs to pick up its game if it wants any hope of lifting the Stanley Cup.

Anze Kopitar scored a spectacular goal on a breakaway with 11:47 left in overtime Wednesday night and the Kings beat the Devils 2-1 in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup finals.

"It was more of a grinding game tonight," said Kings forward Justin Williams, who set up Kopitar's goal with a chip pass from along the boards in center ice. "We realized that early. It's a team that doesn't give you much and we're not expecting to give an inch either. It's supposed to be hard. Tonight it was."

And as usual Los Angeles won. It has steamrolled to a 13-2 record in the postseason and it is now three wins from hoisting its first Cup since joining the NHL in 1967-68. The Kings have won all nine of their road games in the playoffs, an NHL record. They are now one win shy of tying the NHL record for postseason road victories in a season.

They have won 11 consecutive road playoff games dating to last season.

"I think we've outworked teams," said Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick, who made 17 saves. "I think whoever wins this series is going to be the team that outworks the other."

The winning goal was a perfect example. Williams fought Devils defenseman Bryce Salvador and forward Dainius Zubrus along the boards in center ice and managed to chip a pass down the middle toward the Devils' zone.

It was somewhat of a prayer.

"I just threw an area pass," Williams said. "I hoped that he was alone and he was. I've played with him a long time. You just kind of feel it. If it wasn't there, it would have went to nobody. It was a no-lose situation."

Kopitar did everything perfectly on his breakaway. He faked a backhand then put the puck on his forehand and beat a prone Martin Brodeur.

"All losses this time of year are really hard to take because your dream is slowly shutting down," said Brodeur, who faced 25 shots. "We lost one game, there's six games left in this series. They need to win three. We need to win four."

As soon as he rifled the puck into the net, Kopitar raised his hands and banged himself into the boards, facing the crowd off to Brodeur's right.

"To put it past a goaltender like Marty," Kopitar said, "is a good feeling."

The veteran goaltender dejectedly skated off to the locker room as the Kings piled on Kopitar.

This is the third straight series in which the Devils have lost the first game.

"I think it was probably the worst game in the playoffs for us," said Devils leading scorer Ilya Kovalchuk, who was limited to one shot. "Maybe we were a little too nervous before the game started, but it's all excuses. We've got to make sure we know what we didn't do right, and be a different team next game."

Game 2 will be played Saturday in New Jersey.

"We'll be better on Saturday night. ... I don't believe we deserved to win tonight, that's the bottom line and that's what happened," Devils coach Peter DeBoer said. "If we had have won, we would have been sneaking one out."

Fourth-line center Colin Fraser scored in the first period for the Kings, the No. 8 seed in the West who beat the top three teams to get to their first Stanley Cup finals since 1993.

Anton Volchenkov tied it late in the second period for New Jersey, the East's sixth seed. The Devils are now 4-2 in overtime his postseason. Los Angeles is 3-0 after regulation this spring.

The Devils had two great chances to take the lead early in the third, and for a split second it appeared they went ahead with 16:02 to play in regulation when Zach Parise scored off a wild goal-mouth scramble.

While the horns went off and the fans celebrated, referee Dan O'Halloran quickly waved off the goal.

It was reviewed in Toronto and replay clearly showed Parise swept the puck into the net with his hand.

Defenseman Mark Fayne was probably kicking himself six minutes later when he missed a wide-open net from the edge of the crease in what was the Devils' best period of the night.

"We didn't deserve to win tonight, and we didn't," said Devils veteran Patrik Elias, a member of their Cup-winning teams in 2000 and 2003.

The Kings had their chances, too, with Brodeur making two outstanding saves about 10 seconds apart. He made a stacked-pad save on a one-timer by defenseman Drew Doughty from 30 feet after a drop pass from Mike Richards. A turnover seconds later set up forward Dustin Penner for a shot from the left circle.

The Kings came into the finals after steamrolling Vancouver, St. Louis and Phoenix in just 14 games, and they made the Devils look ordinary in the first 40 minutes, holding them to nine shots.

But a fluke goal by Volchenkov tied the game with 1:12 left in the second.

Volchenkov took a shot from the left point that Quick kicked away in front. The puck went airborne, avoided Elias in front and hit off the shoulder of Kings defenseman Slava Voynov before going into the net.

Until then, Fraser's first career playoff goal was looking like the winner.

It was a typical Kings' goal, created off the forecheck — by the fourth line, no less.

Jordan Nolan checked New Jersey's Andy Greene behind the Devils' net, dug out the puck and found Fraser between the circles for a shot that beat Brodeur 9:56 into the game.

The Kings had chances to extend the lead, but Brodeur, who was the difference in the Devils' victory over the rival Rangers in the conference finals, made three good saves. The best stop by the 40-year-old, three-time Cup winner came on the opening shift of the second, when he blocked Kopitar pointblank on the edge of the crease.

Brodeur also stopped forward Jeff Carter from in close and made a big pad stop on Penner in the second.

The Devils were held without a shot for more than 14 minutes of the period before Parise was credited with one on a short-handed attempt in which the puck rolled off his stick into the crease.

Quick, who wasn't very busy in the first two periods, made his best save with a glove stop on Zubrus from the left circle after a turnover.

However, New Jersey managed to tie it on Volchenkov's strange goal.

The tally came just after Quick got into a tussle with Parise in the crease, and refused to let the Devils' captain get up after he fell as Parise lost his helmet.

"I think we're going to have to find another level," DeBoer said. "We were a little tentative, as was expected for a Stanley Cup final. I think we got better as the game went along, but you have to play 60 minutes against that team.

"We have to be better than we were tonight."

NOTES: Less than a minute into the game, the chant of "BEAT L-A" echoed through the arena. ... Doug O'Neill, the trainer of Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner I'll Have Another, was on hand, as was New York Giants offensive lineman Chris Snee and New York Jets coach Rex Ryan. ... Volchenkov's goal was his first in the playoffs since Game 3 of the 2007 Stanley Cup finals when he played for Ottawa against Anaheim. ... Kopitar's goal was his second OT winner in the postseason. The other was in 2010 at Vancouver. He has 12 points in the last nine games, including six goals. ...The was the first Game 1 of the finals that went to overtime since 2002, when the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Detroit Red Wings 3-2 at Joe Louis Arena on a goal by Ron Francis, just 58 seconds past regulation.

PD Sports Insider: Browns Edition, brought to you by Ed Tomko Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Avon Lake, join Dennis Manoloff and cleveland.com's Glenn Moore, along with Mary Kay Cabot to discuss the latest Browns news, including updates from the Browns second OTA.

Watch PD Sports Insider live at noon every Monday and Thursday on cleveland.com

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About the show: PD Sports Insider airs live every Monday and Thursday at noon. Co-hosted by Bud Shaw, Dennis Manoloff and cleveland.com's Glenn Moore, the show features a timely and lively debate of the biggest sports topics of the day and gives readers a chance to interact directly with PD sportswriters and columnists.

Viewers have to the opportunity to ask questions and post comments in a live chat room during the show. They can also email their video questions during the week.

The Cavaliers will have plenty of choices, but which position should they focus on with their first pick in the draft?

Gerry Broome | Associated PressNorth Carolina's Harrison Barnes.

Unfortunately, lightning didn't strike twice in the NBA Draft Lottery for the Cleveland Cavaliers, but the Cavaliers will have the No. 4 pick overall in next month's NBA Draft.

Which player the Cavaliers will select will depend on which player is available once the New Orleans Hornets, Charlotte Bobcats and Washington Wizards make their pick. The Cavaliers may not know which player is available, but the Cavaliers may know which position they want to focus on.

Which position do the Cavaliers need to upgrade the most? Shooting guard? Small forward? Or center?

Log in, listen and chat with cleveland.com's Glenn Moore and The Plain Dealer's Dennis Manoloff as they will be recapping the Tribe's season so far with three of the web's best Tribe bloggers, tonight at 8 p.m.

Chuck Crow/The Plain DealerIt's been a rough week for the Tribe.

Log in, listen and chat with cleveland.com's Glenn Moore and The Plain Dealer's Dennis Manoloff as they will be recapping the Tribe's season so far with three of the web's best Tribe bloggers, tonight at 8 p.m.

Rookie QB Weeden tackles the tough questions.

John Kuntz, The Plain DealerCleveland Browns head coach Pat Shurmur (L) talks with rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden.

ESPN.com is doing a series on the different rookies in the NFL this coming season. The latest Q&A is with Cleveland Browns rookie quarterback Brandon Weeden.

Some of the questions or way out there, while others brought on some interesting responses from Weeden.

For example:

What are you looking forward to most about your new city?

Just getting intertwined; I take a lot of pride about being involved. I was really involved in the Stillwater community, and I plan to do the same thing in Cleveland. Everything has been great, really responsive.

Weeden also talks about the process of getting drafted by the Browns.

I was out in New York for the draft, and that morning, I wanted to spend with my family. Had a little get-together, and [Browns GM Tom Heckert] called me at the 20th pick and told me they were picking me at 22. There were a lot of emotions. My parents’ house went crazy. We had a lot of fun that night. I didn’t sleep much that night.

 More Cleveland Browns

Leroy Kelly Jr. will get another tryout with the Browns (Cleveland.com).

Greg Little hopes a slimmer build will help produce a better season (Ohio.com).

Marcus Benard appreciates new insight (Cleveland.com).

Finally, the Browns have depth at running back (The News-Herald).

Quarterbacks didn't have a great day at OTAs (WFNY.com).

Scott Fujita attends bounty hearing (NFL.com).

Browns player quotes from Wednesday's OTA session (Starting Blocks on cleveland.com)

Pat Shurmur transcript from Wednesday's OTA session (Starting Blocks)

Can the Cavaliers make a deal with the Charlotte Bobcats?

David I. Andersen, The Plain DealerChris Grant

Right now the Cleveland Cavaliers have the No.4 overall pick but that could change if the Cavaliers can make a deal to move up in the draft, writes Jason Lloyd on Ohio.com.

The most likely team that could make a deal with the Cavaliers are the Charlotte Bobcats (No. 2 overall).

That leaves the Bobcats, who are so good at losing that they even lost the draft lottery after finishing the season with the worst winning percentage in NBA history. Their roster is in desperate need of an overhaul and one player – even a player they deem the second-best in this draft – won’t come close to solving all of their problems.

Teams are still in the early stages of compiling their draft board, but if the Bobcats believe there isn’t much of a drop between their second and fourth choices, they could entertain offers from the Cavs for their pick.

What could happen, writes Lloyd, is that the Cavaliers could try to package their two first-round picks (Nos. 4 and No. 24) as a starting point to move up to No. 2.

“With our ownership group, they like being aggressive and we like being aggressive,” GM Chris Grant said. “We’ll look at a lot of different options. I’d presume we’ll be pretty active.”

More Cleveland Cavaliers

No magic this time for the Cavaliers in the lottery (The News-Herald).

Lets look inside the NBA Draft Lottery (Cleveland.com).

GM Chris Grant feels great about No. 4 pick (Cleveland.com).

Will the New Orleans Hornets keep their second lottery pick (NOLA.com)?

Will Bradley Beal land in Cleveland as the No. 4 pick (The Bleacher Report).

"One of the things missing fro the Cleveland Browns is the CONNECTION between past and present. All good teams connect the dots. We have tons of ex Browns with good to great experience and more importantly...Loyalty." - brownsorno1

View full sizeJoshua Gunter/ The Plain DealerWill Leroy Kelly's son follow in his footsteps?

"One of the things missing fro the Cleveland Browns is the CONNECTION between past and present. All good teams connect the dots. We have tons of ex Browns with good to great experience and more importantly...Loyalty.

You can pay whomever you want as many Millions are you wish, but you cannot BUY their devotion , love or Loyalty. Denver understood this simple concept very well when they brought in Elway. Eventually Lerner will get a clue.

Ask yourself when was the last time you saw someone from the front office supporting Cleveland the City, the Cavs, the Indians...the People?

Browns or no one."

The Indians still don't know for sure if catcher Carlos Santana will come off the disabled list Saturday.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerCarlos Santana wears the traditional catcher's face mask when behind the plate, but it didn't prevent him from a concussion that has him sidelined since last weekend. Santana's preference to squat a little farther behind batters contributes to his vulnerability on foul tips, says Sandy Alomar Jr.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- In catching, closer is better. Carlos Santana is going to have to learn that.

Sandy Alomar Jr., the Indians' catching instructor and bench coach, says Santana likes to catch the ball in front of him when he's working behind the plate. It means he's a little farther away from the batter than other catchers, which is not a good place to be when a batter fouls off a pitch.

"With that separation in play, you give the ball more space and it has a lot of action on it," said Alomar, a six-time All-Star for the Indians. "Usually when the catcher is close to the hitter and there's a foul tip, it hits your glove.

"When you're farther away, there's a bigger space between your glove and the bat. The more space you give the ball, the more action it will have. It could go up or down. More often than not, it hits you instead of the glove. ... Unless you want to get beat up, you've got to get closer."

In the eighth inning a week ago at U.S. Cellular Field, Santana was hit in the mask by a foul ball off the bat of Chicago outfielder Alex Rios. Not only did it stun him, but he suffered from whiplash.

"Carlos said he was dizzy, but he wanted to stay in the game," said manager Manny Acta. "I told him, 'How can you catch a 90 mph fastball if you're dizzy?'"

The next day the Indians placed Santana on the seven-day disabled list with what they called a mild concussion. Two years ago, MLB designed the seven-day disabled list specifically for concussions, the dangers of which have drawn much attention on all levels of sports over the last few years.

Santana is eligible to be activated Saturday, but it's unclear if he'll be ready. There are certain daily neurological tests that he's been going through. Those results must be approved by MLB before he's allowed back on the field.

"Carlos' symptoms continue to improve. However, it's very difficult to predict the recovery timetable for a concussion," said GM Chris Antonetti. "I wouldn't be comfortable predicting a specific date for his return."

This wasn't the first time Santana has been hit in the mask with a foul tip. It won't be the last as long as he stays behind the plate. It's a hard and dangerous position.

Santana and backup catcher Lou Marson wear the same traditional Nike mask and scull cap. Santana has had special padding added to his mask by Team Wendy, a Cleveland-based company that manufactures products to prevent traumatic brain injury. Marson has a mask on order from Team Wendy, but has made no changes in his gamer.

"I've used the same mask for a couple of years," said Marson. "It's as light as a pad of paper."

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerIndians catcher Luke Carlin -- a Canadian native -- uses a catching mask that resembles a goaltender's protection in hockey. "It's bigger, I don't like that part, and I think it looks stupid," says Carlin. "But it's comfortable. The vision is exponentially better."

When Alomar played, he normally wore the traditional mask. He said he never had a concussion.

"The masks now are lighter and stronger, but to me the lighter the mask, the more impact you're going to feel on your face," said Alomar. "Before the masks were a little heavier, and the steel would take the impact. There was still pain if you got hit, but with lighter ones now, you really feel it."

Marson works close to the hitter. He says he's usually good for one or two catcher's interference calls a year. Among the benefits: the umpire is closer to the plate to call balls and strikes and the pitcher gets a better target.

"You also catch more foul tips," said Marson, who said he's never had a concussion. "When I came up with Philly, they used to keep track of how many foul tips you caught. That's all based on how close you are. You want to be right underneath the hitter."

Marson has been catching since high school. Santana, a converted infielder, is still learning.

Luke Carlin took Santana's spot on the 25-man roster the day he was placed on the disabled list. Carlin wears a mask similar to those worn by hockey goalies.

"I love it," said Carlin, who grew up in Quebec. "Mainly because you can see better in it. It's bigger, I don't like that part, and I think it looks stupid. But it's comfortable. The vision is exponentially better."

As far as being safer than the traditional mask, Carlin hasn't reached a conclusion.

"When you get hit in the helmet, it's like somebody rings a bell," he said. "I always wore the traditional mask before this and had no problem [with concussions].

"I will say this, I got hit on a backswing this year. I got hit right on the ear. The other mask would have not had protection. It would have smoked my ear."

Said Marson, "I've been hit by backswings. I think the hockey mask is better for it. As far as foul tips, I think the traditional ones protect you better.

"My dad is always telling me to wear the hockey mask. It protects your temple, the side of the face, your ear. ... I have definitely thought about it. But I can't hide my jaw line."

On Twitter: @hoynsie

Breaking down the weekend series between the Indians and Twins.

View full sizeAndy King, Associated PressAfter a long stay on the DL while battling concussion issues, Justin Morneau has been swinging a hot bat in finally getting back on the field for the Twins.

Where: Progressive Field.

When: Friday through Sunday.

TV/radio: SportsTime Ohio Friday and Sunday, WJW Ch. 8 on Saturday; WTAM AM/1100 all games, WMMS FM/100.7 will simulcast Friday's game.

Pitching matchups: RHP Carl Pavano (2-4 5.46) vs. RHP Derek Lowe (6-3, 3.25) Friday at 7:05 p.m., RHP P.J. Wolters (2-1, 2.96) vs. RHP Josh Tomlin (2-2, 4.99) Saturday at 7:15 p.m. and LHP Scott Diamond (3-1, 2.27) vs. RHP Justin Masterson (2-4, 5.14) Sunday at 3:05 p.m.

Season series: The Indians lead Twins, 2-0, this season. The Indians lead, 373-349, overall.

Twins update: Open a six-game trip against the Tribe after sweeping three-game series from Oakland. Followed 6-16 April with a 12-18 May. Joe Mauer is hitting .462 (6-for-13) against Lowe. Since coming off the DL on May 16, Justin Morneau has five homers and 16 RBI.

Indians update: They've lost five of their last six, but outscored the Twins, 10-4, in two-game sweep in mid-May at Target Field. Shin-Soo Choo is hitting .333 (7-for-21) lifetime against Pavano. Casey Kotchman is hitting .429 (3-for-7) with a homer and three RBI against the Twins this year.

Injuries: Twins -- RHP Nick Blackburn (left quadriceps), RHP Kyle Waldrop (right elbow) and RHP Scott Baker (right elbow) are on the disabled list. Indians -- 3B Jack Hannahan (left calf), DH Travis Hafner (right knee), C Carlos Santana (concussion), LHP Rafael Perez (left side), CF Grady Sizemore (back) and RHP Carlos Carrasco (right elbow) are on the disabled list. C Lou Marson (mouth) is day to day.

Next: The Indians travel to Detroit for a three-game series starting Tuesday.