"It's a crazy world, so sports and athletics and music can be a form of escapism."
― Eddie Vedder |
Serena Williams Criticized For Wearing A Catsuit(Op-Ed)by Associate Editor: Christina Maldonado 19’ Serena Williams, new mother, and 23 Grand slam champion was denigrated and disparage, because she decided her health was important, but also her ambition for tennis was not going to stop her from playing. The French Tennis Federation President--Bernard Giudicelli-- disapproved William’s fashion choice: a black, Nike catsuit. Giudice said, “It will no longer be accepted” and “One must respect the game and the place.” Giudice says there will be a dress code, which is not yet in effect, but it certainly will not include the catsuit Williams wore(they have the ability to do this).The Championships, Wimbledon has a dress code that says attire should be “almost entirely white.” Williams wore this type of outfit, because she suffered from blood clots after giving birth and the suit was designed to aid circulation. The bigger issue is that Williams was criticized by how she looked during her game rather than how she played the game. These tennis players do not attend these tournaments to give fashion statements. They attend to embrace their industrial work, their confidence, their skill, and their passion. Serena Williams is an idolized woman, because she strives to be her best self, embraces who she is, and encourages others. This woman has tennis in her veins; you cannot say she does not respect the sport or the place, because she lives for tennis. She lives for what motivates her and what makes her stronger. A majority of the people embraced the outfit, confidence, and inspiration Williams continues to offer. William’s went to Twitter to showcase her outfit, and received appreciation, and support from her fans by tweeting, “Catsuit anyone? For all the moms out there who had a tough recovery from pregnancy-- here you go. If I can do it, so can you. Love you all!!” Here are a few responses via Twitter: “She is my favorite superhero.” -- @VTjdfCA “Love it queen!(heart-eye emoji).” -- @RenasArmyFans “QUEEN! We are so enormously proud of you. Welcome back(blowing a kiss emoji).” --@landyklk “Serena, Thank you for your unending inspiration. We are so proud of you. Working that catsuit gurl!!!” -- @RoxanaRReeves The public supports whatever Williams chooses to wear, because they respect her as a person and as a tennis player, so they’re mainly focused on her performance--good or bad-- and should not be evaluated about whether or not she looks appealing(she’s not wearing a tiny skirt. How dare she?). http://www.latimes.com/fashion/la-ig-serena-williams-catsuit-kerfuffle-20180829-story.html# https://twitter.com/serenawilliams/status/1001540241558261760 https://twitter.com/RenasArmyFans/status/1001540628361117696 https://twitter.com/landyklk/status/1001570097205477376 https://twitter.com/RoxanaRReeves/status/1001545399411163136
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From The Editor: Sports Betting, Now Legalized (Op-Ed)By Zach Wargo '20 Over the past 50 years, Sports betting has become more and more popular in the country, and even in the world. This past Monday, sports betting was now legalized in all 50 states, which changes the way how we watch sports. Before, sports betting was illegal in 49 states. Nevada was the center for most of America's gambling, mostly taking part in Las Vegas. This new law passed by the supreme court changes how people bet on sports, how people watch sports, and how major sports leagues play the game. There is a lot of good and bad to this as sports betting will cause even more gambling problems for people, as it is always impossible to know the outcome of every game. Sports is different every single day, every season, as it is difficult to predict who will win the World Series right now and it's nearly impossible to predict who will win Super Bowl LIII in Atlanta in the upcoming year, 2019. My opinion on sports betting is that everyone needs to be careful how you bet. Over the past decade sports betting has made more headlines, and will only get more popular as it is now legalized in all 50 states. Soon most or all the states will propose laws to legalize gambling in casinos, but it will take many years for each state to pass it’s own law. All gambling is, incredibly difficult to get your money back, even if you think you know everything about a matchup or a fight. Which is why we hear about people that only bet 150 dollars to win an amazing jackpot. The sports leagues also have mixed feelings about this new law that is now passed in all 50 states. MLB is completely against sports betting, while the NBA is all for sports betting. The NFL will go along with this major change in sports, as they will gladly profit from it in the coming years. Many questions have been asked since Monday on what will happen, will there be new websites, live in-game betting, and online sportsbooks, or if you will also only need a credit card number to gamble. One problem that I have is that there will be numerous gambling problems across the country once the states finalize, legalizing the new law. Gambling is an addiction, just like smoking or drinking. Gambling can also put people in troubled situations, even if online sportsbooks just take a credit card. Another big question is on how will the NCAA handle its students athletes? Recently a Toledo football player fumbled a ball on purpose so he could win a $500 bet, which he was later suspended from the team, but since betting is legalized now, how will they be able to handle all of their student athletes, and another question is should college athletes get paid while playing for their respective universities? Just recently on Thursday, the NCAA said that they were completely fine of this new law the supreme court has passed. Sports betting will forever change sports, NCAA tournament pools, Super Bowl Squares, the World Series, National Championships, Super Bowls, NBA Playoffs, and horse racing for the future. Sources: ESPN.com Zakarri Fields, State ChampionBY Zach Wargo '20 On May 11th and May 12th, Gallup High Senior, Zakarri Fields gave it his all in his last track meet, and became a state champion in the 400m dash. Fields also participated in three events that Friday, along with graduating in front of his family. On May 11th, he placed 4th in long jump with a personal best of 20 feet and 4 inches. He also qualified for finals in the 400 meter dash, and the 100 meter dash. Last year, Fields also competed at state in Albuquerque, and represented not only himself, but Gallup High as one of the best sprinters in the state. While on May 12th, Fields had to compete in two races, the 100 and the 400 meter dash. Last year Fields did not run the 100, but he did run the 400 meter dash and was state runner up. In the 100 meter dash on Saturday, Fields ran a time of 11.27 seconds, and placed 3rd out of the entire state. For the 400 meter dash, Fields ran a Season Best of 49.44 seconds, and placed first. Zakarri Fields said he had felt great during three of his events, and was excited to be a state champion. Sources: https://www.nmact.org/records/#trackandfield Special Message From The EditorBy Zach Wargo '20
Dear Readers: It is my pleasure to announce that I am again the Sports Editor for the upcoming school year for 2018-2019. I enjoyed writing for everyone this past school year. I gained a lot of experience and became a better writer as this past school year went. I am now a Junior at Gallup High and will be in the graduating class of 2020. My main goal for the Sports section this coming year is to establish more photos and interviews, and to introduce two new columns in the section weekly. One of those columns would be interviewing Bengal Athletes and former athletes that participated in Bengal Sports. One of my other goals is to establish a “From The Editor” column; I voice my opinion on the week of sporting events, on one conflict. Most specifically, I will write on games, politics in sports, and problems going on in the sports world. It is also my pleasure to announce that Gallup High will be establishing social media pages for sports. I will be in charge of keeping everyone updated on scores, news, videos, and pictures over the entire school year, along with keeping stats for the Football team. The name of the social media pages can be found below. I am looking forward to be back writing more articles for the readers, and I am looking forward to be an editor for the sports section, to this upcoming school year, to learn more, and to become a better journalist for the future. Facebook: GHSBengalSports Snapchat: GHSBengalSports Twitter: @GHSBengalSports Instagram: GHSBengal Sports Second Round: Cleveland Steals Game One , Curry ReturnsBy Zach Wargo '20 Lebron and Cavs Steal Game 1: Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers had just gotten done with a grueling seven game series against the Indiana Pacers, as the Cavaliers had managed to get past Indiana thanks to a 45 point performance by Lebron James. James and the Cavs would face another test, with Toronto coming off of rest, many people wondered how Cleveland would get past Toronto. Toronto was the one seed in the East, but not the favorites in Vegas to reach the finals. The past two years Toronto had been eliminated by Lebron in the playoffs and were looking to get revenge in this year’s playoffs. Tuesday night both teams battled for game one, as Toronto was a heavy favorite. Cleveland started the game off slowly, along with having an early deficit in the game. Lebron would later finish the game with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists, which would help Cleveland steal game one, along with 20 points from J.R Smith, and 19 points from Kyle Korver. Toronto led for 47 minutes, and 30 seconds of the game, eventually Cleveland took the lead in overtime, after Lebron missed a fadeaway jumper with .6 left in the game. Going into overtime Cleveland proved that they would not be an easy out in the East, with Lebron trying to go to seven straight finals, and looking for his fourth ring. Lebron didn’t score in overtime, although it was just enough to steal game one for Cleveland. 113-112. Stephen Curry Returns From Injury; Warriors take 2-0 Series Lead: After a 36 game absence, Stephen Curry finally returned to the court in game two against the Pelicans. Curry started the game off the bench, although he got 31 minutes on the floor, and he had made an instant impact on the game. Within ten seconds of game time, he shot a rainbow three, and electried the arena. Golden State, who is a heavy favorite in the series, and a co-favorite with Houton to represent the East in the finals are favored to beat the Pelicans easily in this round two match up. Curry scored 12 of his 28 points in the third quarter, and shot 50% from 3-point range for the game. The Warriors would continue to roll as they narrowly defeated New Orleans 121-116. Sources: http://www.nba.com/ Gallup High to move down to Class 4A in 2018-19 School year By Zach Wargo '20 For the upcoming school year, Gallup high will move down to class 4A for all sports. The NMAA (New Mexico Activities Association) rearranged classification for all schools. Gallup high will play all sports in class 4A except for football, who will be in 5A. Gallup High will continue to compete against Miyamura, Kirtland Central, Bloomfield, Aztec, but will now compete against Shiprock instead of Farmington. This also is a new rule that the NMAA implies, as Miyamura will play schools in Albuquerque, and they will move up to Class 5A due to how many students Miyamura has. Gallup high will compete against 4A schools. The NMAA also has established that all student-athletes need to maintain a 2.0 GPA, along with NO F’s per semester, instead of grade checks per quarter. The NMAA also wants students to have higher grades in the classroom, so students can represent their school’s on the field, court, and trail. Over the past few years the NMAA has tried to push students to do better in the classroom, as academics should always come first for high school students to get them ready for college. https://www.nmact.org/ Gallup High Sports To Make Social Media Outlets in 2018-19 By Zach Wargo '20
For the upcoming school year Gallup High School will be able to update people, and students on scores for most sports, as if fans or students are not able to make it to the game, or event, they shall be able to look up scores on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat. With this addition, Bengal Sports will be able to be seen by the fans, with updated scores, rosters, news, schedules and stats for the students and fans to keep up with all the action. This sports page will be ran by Zach Wargo, a sophomore from Gallup High School, and will be a Junior for the upcoming school year. Following Sports will be Featured: Football Girls & Boys Basketball Cross Country Softball Baseball Soccer Wrestling Track & Field and Many more! Social Media Platforms: Facebook: GHSBengal Sports Snapchat: GHSBengalSports Twitter: @GHSBengalSports Instagram: GHSBengal Sports NFL Draft: Cleveland Surprises with Baker, Giants get Barkley on Historic Night By Zach Wargo '20 On Thursday night, for one of the most anticipated drafts in recent memory, and for the first time in draft history, the draft was in Dallas, home of the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. The Browns, who were looking to find their quarterback, as they have been trying too for the past 19 years since 1999, they have had only two playoff appearances, and have had 28 different starting quarterbacks since 1999. The Browns, who recently went 0-16, had the 1st and 4th overall picks in the draft. In the past, the Browns have been known to pass on players who have become stars and Super Bowl Champions for other teams, like Carson Wentz, Big Ben, and stars like Deshawn Watson, Derek Carr, Dak Prescott. This year the Browns tried to not make that mistake. Thursday night they took the surprise number one pick with Quarterback Baker Mayfield out of Oklahoma, who has had off the field problems, and seemed to be a Johnny Manziel 2.0 from 2014. In Cleveland, many people seemed startled, and angry at the organization for blowing another pick. For the 4th overall pick, the Browns selected a Cornerback out of Ohio State, Denzel Ward, to build up their young defense, this pick did not seem to startle as many people, but some people thought different. For the Giants however, it was no surprise at all that they took one of the best players in the draft, which was Saquon Barkley out of Penn State. Saquon surprised teams at the Combine in February with his workout, and is on the road to be a nightmare for the rest of the league. The New York Jets at three took one of the best quarterbacks in the draft, as it was 20 year old Sam Darnold. For the 19th pick, the Dallas Cowboys selected a Linebacker out of Boise State, Leighton Vander Esch. Finally for the first time in NFL history, five quarterbacks were taken in the first 10 picks. Rounds 2-3 will be aired tonight on NFL Network, ESPN2, and on FOX, along with rounds 4-7 on Saturday starting at 10AM on NFL Network, and ESPN. http://www.dallascowboys.com/ https://www.nfl.com/ Gallup Softball Moves to 15-5-1 After Splitting against AztecBy Zach wargo '20 SInce April 13th, the Lady Bengals have rolled past almost everyone in it’s district. On April 13th, they defeated Bloomfield in it’s double header by outscoring them 33-8. In the first game the Bengals defeated the Bobcats 16-7, and it the final game they defeated them once again 17-1, as they would continue their winning streak going into their next match up against Aztec. On April 20th, they played at home against Aztec, as they are 9-7 this season, and looked to move up in the district. For the Bengals they were 14-4-1 going into the double header, the first game saw plenty of offense, as the Bengals narrowly defeated the Tigers 9-8 in the first game. In the second game, it was closer just like the first game. While in the second game, the Bengals were down early, and faced a 10-2 uphill climb going into the third inning. In the 5th inning, the Lady bengals fought their way back as they got six runs in the 5th and cut the lead to 4, as it was 12-8. With two innings to play, it still wasn’t enough as they soon got a run in the 6th inning, and two runs in the 7th inning, ending the game at a 12-11 defeat. With the loss, the Bengals are still one of the best teams in 5A, and are half a game behind Farmington for district, The Lady Bengals face off against Kirtland Central on April 28th, and then end off their season May 4th at Farmington, which could decide who takes home the regular season district title. The Lady bengals are 15-5-1, and are 4-1-1 in district play, as they are ranked 16th in the state, and ranked 4th in class 5A. Former New Orleans Cheerleader fired after posting a picture on Instagram By Reylena Tsosie 21’ Bailey Davis was a cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints. She is a twenty-two year old female. She posted a picture of herself wearing a laced one piece outfit on her private Instagram account. She then was fired, from the Saints. She filed a complaint to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, for a gender discrimination complaint. She also claimed that the Saints held the cheerleading team to a more strict policy compared to their own football players. Davis learned that she was fired for breaking the Saints rules for cheerleaders, “Appearing nude or partially nude.” There was a rumor about Davis; about her being at a party with the Saints, but she denies those allegations. Which is against the rules. The Saints officials had accused her of violating the dress code. The cheerleading team and Ms. Davis are not supposed to be appearing nude or partially nude; or have any contact with any of the players for safety reasons. She told Megyn Kelly in an interview, “ They said ‘the players are players.’ … they say they want to protect us from the players, that the players are predators and they’re gonna want to prey on us,” The Saints officials want the football players and the cheerleaders to avoid contact even on social media and to block them out of their lives. It is called the anti-fraternization policy. The reason is this so they can protect cheerleaders from the players praying on them. Sources: http://people.com/sports/former-saints-cheerleader-fired-instagram-photo-discrimination-complaint/ https://www.cbsnews.com/news/bailey-davis-ex-new-orleans-saints-cheerleader-says-nfl-teams-policies-discriminate/ http://www.newsweek.com/nfl-new-orleans-saints-cheerleaders-861363 http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/article_e4f902f0-3294-11e8-a782-1742653aa220.html https://www.today.com/news/nfl-cheerleader-fired-over-instagram-post-cites-double-standard-women-t125929 https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/fired-saints-cheerleader-files-complaint-alleging-discrimination-against-women/ Gallup's Track Team Places 3rd At Hope Christian MeetBy Zach Wargo '20
As the season soon comes to an end for most of Gallup High athletics, the Track team is competitive this season, as they already have three track athletics qualified for state, and trying to get more to go to Albuquerque on May 11th, and the 12th. On April 21st, the Boys track team placed 3rd at one of the biggest meets in the state, along with many of the hard working athletes breaking their own personal best, and making Gallup High very competitive in track. This was the first time that Gallup High had placed at this meet, as they will look to try to qualify for state on May 4th, and 5th at districts. While the Girls will also try to do the same, in Kirtland next weekend. Bengal Sports Update: April 13th, 2018By Zach Wargo '20
Lady Bengal Softball: Bengal softball continues to have momentum within the district, as they defeated their cross-town rival Miyamura this past Friday, 12-7 and tied with the patriots 13-13 due to darkness, Bengals continue to have three losses over the season along with one tie. The lady bengals look to improve to 15-3-1 with a double header against bloomfield. Bengal Softball is ranked 11th in the state, as they are the second best team in 5A this season. Bengal Baseball: Bengal Baseball is more competitive this season, as they only have four wins this season, but continue to stay in games this season. They already have more runs scored, and more games won this year, as they are a senior heavy group. Bengal Baseball plays with heart and with a positive attitude every game, and like to have fun and play good old fashioned baseball. Bengal Baseball travels to Bloomfield to take on the bobcats, while they try to get their first win in district play this season. Bengal Track: This year with losing some strong athletes, bengal track is competitive. The Bengals have gone to Round Valley, Arizona and took 7th place out of 21 teams this season, which was a massive improvement from last season. They’ve already gotten two athletes qualified for state, while they look to add to that total. On March 24th, senior Jessica Ramirez qualified for state, as on April 7th, senior Gloria Jones qualified for state also. The Bengals look to compete again this weekend at Miyamura invite and looking to qualify more runners for state. Villanova Glides to the Title; Defeats Michigan 79-62 in Title GameBy Zach Wargo '20 Monday night represented us as a game that many thought would not even be a game at all. Most or all people are not surprised with this outcome that was the National Title game. Villanova has made its case all season that it is one of the best teams in the country, with dominating the tournament and coasting its way through its region. One surprise though was Michigan, as they were the BIG Ten champs, and hadn’t lost a game since early February. The Title game was sure to be another big upset for the underdog, or the powerhouse team taking home another title to its program for the second time in three years. Villanova had won every game by 10+ points in the NCAA Tournament, which is rare, and only three other schools had done that and won the title, as history was on the line Monday night. VIllanova was also looking to become the third team in NCAA history to win two titles in three season, along with another championship to the city of Philadelphia, the second title since the Eagles had won the Super Bowl on February 4th. While the underdog, Michigan, coming out of the west region of the bracket, and for the first time in NCAA Tournament history they have never played a top-5 seed or higher entering Monday. The road for Michigan was much different than Villanova, as they needed a heroic shot with 1.1 seconds left to get them to the Sweet 16. Jordan Poole, a freshmen that lifted the Wolverines over Houston to continue their deep run in the tournament. Michigan was the hottest team in the country, along with stopping Sister Jean’s and Loyola’s run to the Championship. The title game Monday night was a intense game, it was back and forth, and Michigan had eliminated the deep three from Villanova, forcing them to drive in the lane and to score from the free throw line, or to make a tough, contested lay up. With 10 minutes left in the first half, all the tables turned, with the sixth man of the year coming on for Villanova, and leading the charge for the Wildcats. Villanova was down 21-14, as they soon knocked down a quick three, which had sparked both sides of the ball. Villanova would later go on a 23-7 run to end the first half. Donte Divincenzo, a redshirt sophomore experienced the buzzer-beater from two years ago, stated after the game that after the 2016 title game, he was determined along with his teammates to get back to the spotlight and win a title for himself, the team, coach Jay Wright, and for the program. DiVincezo would later be named the Final Four’s most outstanding player after scoring 31 points off the bench. The second half was not much different, Villanova was in control for the entire game as they continued to extend their 37-28 lead. Michigan only cut into the lead with six minutes left as it was a 12 point game. Suddenly in a span of 40 seconds DiVincezo would score six straight points, and secure the third title for Villanova. This was not a title game that would be remembered, or go down in history, as for Villanova it will, being in rare company with the elite programs, and showing that they can be one of the blue bloods just like North Carolina, Duke, Kansas. Kentucky, and Michigan State. Villanova would later win 77-63 behind DiCincezo’s 31 points. Along to end the tournament with the tradition of One Shining Moment. Photo Credit: Sports Illustrate, Fox Sports, ESPN, and NCAA.com Video Credit: Youtube.com Womens National Championship: Notre Dame Stuns Mississippi StateBy Zach Wargo '20 Over the weekend, two final four games took place Friday night in Columbus, Ohio. The four teams that were left were all one seeds, only the forth time in NCAA history that has happened in the women's bracket. The four, number one seeds consisted of it being the powerhouse UConn. UConn was looking for another national championship but it’s dreams were dropped dead as Arike Ogunbowale let those dreams vanish after a game-winning shot in overtime in the Final Four to send Notre Dame to the title game. Mississippi State on the other hand, does know how it feels to break hearts, as they did last year with a buzzer beater against UConn, breaking a 112 game winning streak and sending them to the title game. Last Friday night, Mississippi St would later defeat Louisville in overtime to send them to the title game for the second straight year. The Final Four was in fact shaping up to be on the of best in history with the title game shaped up to be close, intense, and one for the ages. Notre Dame’s road was not easy, as they had to face UConn in the semi-final game, and upsetting the country with a historic game with an amazing finish Friday night. The Fighting Irish were down as much as 13 points in the title game, and only scoring a season low three points in the 2nd quarter. The Irish kept their head up and fought back, to tie the game in the fourth quarter. Arike Ogunbowale led the Irish to this point during the entire tournament. Mississippi St had also missed a key layup with 10 seconds left in the ball game, which would have given them the lead. Arike Ogunbowale did her thing again, breaking the hearts of Mississippi state fans, players, and coaches. Ogunbowale had nailed a shot with 0.01 left on the clock, a game winning, consisted three. The shot was very similar as it was in the same spot on Friday night, just on opposite ends of the floor. She later would be named the Final Four most outstanding player, and receiving praise from Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, and many more athletes after the ball game. Notre Dame would win their first national championship, second in program history since 2001. While defeating Mississippi State 61-58. While Arike Ogunbowale shines on this weeks Sports Illustrated cover. Donte DiVincenzo’s One Shining MomentBy Zach Wargo '20 Far before Monday’s national championship game, very little people knew who Donte DiVincenzo was, unless if you were a Villanova fan or a college basketball analysis. The Men’s final four took place Saturday, March 30, as Villanova along with three other teams were trying to win a national championship for their school, coach, and of course their fans. Donte DiVincenzo was most recently a national champion, as he was named college basketball’s sixth man of the year for coming off the bench. DiVincenzo, a redshirt sophomore watched two years ago when Senior Forward Kris Jenkins knocked off North Carolina at the buzzer in 2016 to secure the second national title in its program history. Only two years later, DiVincezo was playing in the Final Four, coming off the bench as he has all season, is now a campus hero for Villanova. DiVincezo averages 30 minutes off the bench, and averages 13.4 points per game. DiVincezo and Villanova Saturday night was taking on the Kansas Jayhawks, with the winner moving on the the Championship game to play 3 seeded Michigan. Divincezo came off the bench Saturday night scoring 15 points, shooting perfect from the line, and putting in key minutes in Villanova’s record night with 18 made three pointers, and an NCAA record in the final four, and in NCAA history for made threes by a single team. Villanova put on a show Saturday night after pummeling the Jayhawks 95-79. Monday night would soon crown a National Champion, Michigan vs Villanova. Michigan had not lost since early February, as they were conference champions and were looking for their first national title since 1989. Michigan has also recently defeated the Cinderella team of the tournament, as they came back from 10 points to defeat the Ramblers 69-57 Saturday night. Monday night did indeed belong to Villanova, as they didn’t shoot the 3 ball as accurate, but they did run over Michigan like a bulldozer. Donte DiVincenzo, coming off a 15 point night over Kansas, had played the game of his life, coming off the bench when the score was 14-21 in favor of Michgan. When DiVincenzo had came off the bench, Villanova was struggling to get any open shots, or to get to the free throw line. DiVincenzo had sparked Villanova’s offense with knocking down the first three 3’s for Nova, and driving the lane to get Michigan in foul trouble. Villanova’s star player of the entire year, Jalen Brunson had gotten early fouls and was forced to watch the game from the bench. DiVincenzo scored 18 of Villanova’s 37 points in the 1st half, and leading them back with a 23-7 run to end the 1st half. The second half was no different for the hero, as he would score 13 more points during the game, leading the wildcats back to a quick 6-0 run when Michigan had cut it to twelve, and only to break the hearts of Michigan fans as he would secure Villanova’s 2nd title in three years. DiVincenzo would later be named the Final Four’s most outstanding player, and forever a hero to Villanova basketball. DiVincenzo would break the NCAA record for most points off the bench in a national championship game, and tieing Danny Manning for the second most points in the title game with 31 points. Photo Credit: Yahoo Sports, Sports Illustrated, and The Associated Press From The Editor: Nothing But MadnessBy Zach Wargo '20 Over the past few years of watching this tournament, watching the first round games during class, and staying up late during the first and second rounds is one of my favorite things to do during the NCAA Tournament, due to unbelievable comebacks, major upsets, amazing dunks, and outright just being a sports lover and enjoying what will be remembered from this year's tournament. There are several reasons the NCAA tournament overshadows all other sporting events in March. It is because of the unpredictability and upsets that colleges that we have never heard of create. Millions of people fill out brackets on ESPN, CBS sports, Yahoo, and on many other websites that allow people to fill out online brackets for free. Another big winner in March would be the city of Las Vegas, with millions of people betting on the games, and betting who will win the tournament, with people betting on the favorites, their favorite team, or placing a bet on a cinderella favorite. The main reason why people will be talking about this tournament for a few years will be the upsets, and the unexpected cinderella. The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers, an unknown team in the tournament to most of the country has suddenly become the new sweethearts to America, with 98 year old Sister Jean by the team's side every game, got to finally see the team make the first NCAA Tournament in 30 years. The Ramblers, also known as the Gryffindors were a popular pick to pull off the upset against Miami, but not to make this unrealistic run to the Final Four. The Ramblers had only won their first three games by an average margin of 1.3 points per game, as going into the elite eight, they later claimed there spot as a cinderella after pulling off upsets against No. 6 Miami, No.3 Tennessee, No. 7 Nevada. Loyola wasn’t even supposed to make it this far, the only people who believed in them would be their fans. Sister Jean, and themselves. Loyola is now a final four team now, as an No.11 seed, the fourth in NCAA History to make it to the big stage. Virginia, the heavy favorite to win it all, going into the tournament with an ACC title, and the regular season title. They finished the season with 31 wins, and only 2 losses. It seemed it would’ve been a layup to get past No. 16 seed UMBC. Well think again, with 16 seeds being 0-135 in NCAA Tournament history, had changed on the night of March 16th, in Charlotte. UMBC, a 22 points underdog in vegas, had no reason to even be close with the overall number one seed, UMBC was the 63rd ranked team in the tournament, out of 64 teams. Virginia was known for one of the best teams defensively during the season, as no one put up more than 70 points on the Cavaliers. UMBC held Virginia to 22 points, while the game was tied at the half. What happened next would shock the entire country, as they didn’t care about their bracket no more, the sports fans and the entire country was watching history right before their eyes. UMBC went on to rout the overall No.1 seed 74-54, putting up 53 points in one entire half. CBS Sports commentator Jim Nantz said during the broadcast, “The NCAA Tournament has been turned upside down”. The is the type of upset that happens once in a lifetime, this upset will be remembered forever, as it is regarded as the greatest of all time, with the Miracle on Ice in 1980, or the 1982 Virginia losing to a D-II team, or Buster Douglas knocking out Mike tyson. UMBC captured our hearts for one night, shocked the world, and will be remembered forever as the greatest upset in NCAA tournament history, and as the ultimate upset. The NCAA tournament has been a tradition for a number of years, and will continue to be with amazing buzzer beaters, major upsets, and of course, nothing but madness which is what we all love as sport fans, and every day people that love to fill out a bracket every year. Bengal Girl Dance Team Places 3rd at StateBy Lucia Kezele '18 While everyone in Gallup was enjoying their spring break, with their entire week off, a group of talented dancers took their own talents to Albuquerque once again to try to win another state title for Gallup High School. The dancers had worked hard all season, with multiple practices during the day, throughout the school year, showing off their talents during football games, and for most basketball games. During the spring break, the dancers had been practicing all week on two routines, to see if they could be able to steal state from Roswell. The dancers have placed in state for the past six of the seven years since taking the state title in 2011. Since that 2011 state title the Bengal girls Dance Team had came close to winning state again, with 2nd place finishes, and 3rd place finishes by very narrow margins. This year the dancers took Albuquerque in the well known venue of The Pit, mostly famous for hosting the State basketball tournament, and Lobo games every year. On March 23rd, and the 24th, the state dance competition was held, with schools competing across the state. On the first day of competition the Bengal Girls were in 2nd place, with a respectable score of 85.6, as they were only 8 points behind Roswell, who has taken state every year since 2012, was looking to repeat as champion once again, for the sixth straight year. The score that the Bengals were given still gave them hope for a state title or state runner up, as they were one point ahead of St. Pius, and only four tenths ahead of Los Lunas going into the 2nd day. On the second day, the Bengal Dance girls would dance early in the morning, as they would be one of the first 5A teams to hit the dance floor, they knew that had to get a near perfect score to defeat Roswell. After the routine, they would wait all day to see which place they would come in, they did end up getting the third best score out of all the 5A teams on the second day, with scoring a 85.5 out of 100. The score would later bring them to a total of 171.1, as it would later be good enough for 3rd place at state, only to come one points short of being a state runner up. This would be the 4th time in 6 years that the Bengal Girls would take 3rd place at a state competition. The Bengal Girls have placed at state 6 of the past 7 years, either taking home a blue, red, or green trophy, as it has been nothing but success for the dancers and the program. Picture & Video Credit: Lucia Kezele Bengal Softball Off to A Strong Start to the Season By Zach wargo '20
Since the season started a little more than a month ago, Bengal softball started off to a very good start. Softball started their season off on March 3rd against Belen with a 7-5 victory. The Bengal softball team later went on to play in a tournament in Phoenix, facing against plenty of good talent for the entire weekend. For the weekend in Phoenix, they had gone 3-1, with dominating wins over the course of the weekend. With that the Lady Bengals would be 4-1 going back to New Mexico to play in another tournament. The Lady Bengals have plenty of talent, and only have one senior on the varsity team this season. They also have five 8th graders on the varsity team as they have plenty of youth, and lots of talent at the high school level. The Bengal softball team already has more wins as it did last year, and is ranked 4th in class 5A, and ranked 15th in the entire state. This year, the lady Bengals are looking for a deep run into state and to remain confident in themselves during the entire year. The Bengals are 10-3, with their three losses, which were very close, as they came against a 6A team Cleveland, and a 5A team Valencia. What has been so dominant for this year’s team is that they have outscored opposing teams 109-38, and not allowing many runs during each game. The Lady Bengals start district play on April 6th against cross-town rival Miyamura, while their next game is April 3rd in a doubleheader against Window Rock to try to move to 12-3 for the season. March Madness Set to Start ThursdayBy Zach Wargo 20' It happens every year, with the college basketball season coming to a close the annual NCAA Tournament is now set. The number 1 seeds for the tournament were a lock coming into when the teams were selected. Virginia, Villanova, Kansas, and Xavier were all rewarded with tremendous seasons. The field of 68 was set in a span of half an hour, and there were questions for the seeding, as with Arizona getting a 4 seed, and Oklahoma, Arizona St, and Syracuse. The questions were is they did get it right, as they were the last 3 teams in the tournament with mediocre records. Every year the tournament never fails to repeat, with major upsets, buzzer beaters, and of course the tournament ending in one shining moment. Two years ago the tournament showed us everything, with buzzer beaters, and one of the greatest title games of all time, with a game-winning buzzer beating national title for Villanova over North Carolina. Which last year the Tar Heels had gotten revenge on the field of 68 by defeating Gonzaga in the national title game, and winning their sixth title in it’s school history. March Madness has presented us with unforgettable moments, which is one reason why sports fans love it so much. In this year’s tournament Duke, Villanova, Virginia, and North Carolina are the favorites to win this year’s title, as Arizona and Michigan St is are other people’s dark horses this year. With the countries top team, the Virginia Cavaliers have the best defense in the country, which is what makes them a heavy favorite. Although Virginia a favorite, Duke and Villanova is not far behind them, as they are looking to have a deep run in March and hoist the trophy in San Antonio. March Madness is like christmas for most sports fans, with bracket pools, and the feat to have a perfect bracket, as people love March for this event every year. The Madness starts March 13th, with the first four, as 1st round play begins March 15th. Serena Williams Epic Return To TennisBy Reylena Tsosie 21’
Serena Williams is an American Tennis player. She is a 36 year old female. She was born on September 26, 1981. Her net worth in 2016 was $150 million. In 2002, she was ranked number one in the world for tennis. She is ranked 22. Just recently she came back from a year long absence from giving birth from a baby, and she just played her first tournament in over a year. Venus Williams Venus Williams is Serena Williams older sister. She plays tennis as well. Venus is now number 8 in the world, with 4,277 points. In 2001, Serena and Venus were supposed to play against each other at Indian Wells in California. The audience was booing Venus because she was in the semi final. It has been 14 years since they last went there and now they’re ready to play the sport they love. Williams VS Williams Venus and Serena competed against one another at the Australian Open in 1998. Venus won the two sets 7-6 and 6-1. They played against each other for 28 matches. Serena won 17 and Venus 11. Together they have 30 grand slams. Serena won 23 and Venus 7. Monday night Serena vs Venus Serena Williams came back to play tennis when she lost against Venus, straight sets. 6-3 and 6-4. Baby Alexis Serena Williams and Alexis Ohanian had a baby girl on September 1, 2017. Her name is Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr. Spouse Serena William is married to Alexis Ohanian. He is 34, and the co founder of social news being rated and liked called Reddit. They first met May 2015, in Rome. Williams never heard of Reddit and he never seen Williams play tennis. On June 2015, during the French open; Williams had invited Ohanian to see her play and before she played they walked around Paris for six hours. He attended every match and soon got married on November 16, 2017. Back To Tennis Serena Williams first return back to tennis during the Indian Wells Masters. Even though she lost a match to her older sister she is back to play tennis. Lady Bengals Slide by Patriots 61-52; Will play Bloomfield Thursday in Semis.By Zach Wargo '20 In front of a massive crowd Tuesday night, the Pit would be packed, as expected full of Gallup fans from both rival schools. The three seeded Bengals who are coming off a dominating win against Capital, would look to ride deep into State with a win against its rival Miyamura, who were looking for another upset this month. Knowing the stakes, this would be the biggest game in Miyamura’s 10 year history, as they would be playing Gallup, and a chance to make it to the state semifinals for the first time in school history. Gallup on the other hand, would be looking for another trip to the semifinals, the fourth trip in seven years. Going into the game both teams split the season series, with Miyamura taking down the lady Bengals earlier in the year, and then later Gallup getting revenge on them later into the season. The game started out slow, and had no rhythm to the game, for the entire first half, Gallup played very sloppy from the start of the game, towards the end of the 1st half. Scoring started with Hanna Toledo, and then a quick basket by Miyamura. Very little fouls were called during the game, as it was a very early back and forth battle. Many Gallup fans thought that the lady Patriots would be nervous coming out of the gate, as most of their players have never played at The Pit, and in a game this important, that was not the case, as Miyamura would knock down jumpshots and attack to the basket for layups. At the end of the 1st quarter, the game would later be tied 8-8. The start of the 2nd quarter proved to be much different, both teams started to play fast as Gallup continued to play with a press for the entire game. Miyamura continued to put pressure on Gallup to score, as they sure did late in the quarter. It started with a three pointer made by Amanda Mitchell, who would later become an important asset for the lady Bengals later on in the second half. Miyamura would soon hold on for the lead as the score would be 26-22. The first half provided us with not many free-throws, or a consistent rhythm for either team, with sloppy play by both teams. Gallup was looking for a start of a run in the second half to scare the Lady Patriots from holding their lead, which once again they got, late in the 3rd quarter. With Gallup down as much as six, which was at multiple times in the game, Amanda Mitchell once again got Gallup back into the game with a 9-0 run in a very short amount of time, and helping Gallup out with making four of Gallup’s eight three’s to give them their first lead since the score was 6-4. Although Miyamura seemed to hold steady, and remained with the lead, Foul trouble was not a problem at all for either team, as it was a fast, and free-throwless game until the 3rd quarter. Gallup would soon go into the final quarter only down by two, with a score of 37-39. The 4th quarter seemed as the final eight minutes for whoever’s season was coming to an end, the game had lived up to the hype, and was well worth the money the crowd had came here for. Once again Gallup would be fighting for it’s season, and a spot in the semifinal game against Bloomfield on Thursday. Gallup opened the quarter with a 13-3 run, thanks to three straight 3’s made by Kamryn Yazzie, who also made nine straight points for Gallup. The run would later give the lady Bengals a lot of confidence and would soon put Miyamura away for good. Late in the 4th quarter, Gallup would actually shoot it’s first free-throws of the game with only 3:28 left in the 4th quarter. The Lady bengals would shoot 7/12 from the line, and with them making 8 three’s and outscoring Miyamura 39-26 in the 2nd half. Gallup would later win 61-52, with Ashley Antone led Gallup in scoring with 16 points, then Kamryn Yazzie with 15 points, and Amanda Mitchell with 14 points. Gallup after the win would find out they would be playing number two seeded Bloomfield once again, and for the fourth time this season. The winner would play in the State Championship game Friday night at The Pit. About A Player: Jeff HeathBy Reylena Tsosie '21 Who is Jeff Heath we all might be asking. He is the Dallas Cowboys safety. The number on his jersey is 38. His birthday is May 14 and he was born on 1991. He went to college at Saginaw Valley state college. In college, he was on a partial scholarship he wasn’t fully recruited. He played 30-35 games and 219 tackles and seven interceptions. For Heath’s senior year he was a soccer player. In high school, Heath was known for being the best soccer player. His dad later said that he never knew his son was going to recognized for football. Heath got a lot of soccer scholarships. The main thing that was disappointing to Heath was that he was never drafted, he knew he had to earn a spot for the Cowboys. Instead, he was a free agent for the Dallas Cowboys. Rick Gosselin said Heath was an overlooked college gem. |
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