The Drive: Meteorologist Jeff Haniewich is in hiding after his heavily favored Cavs folded like trailer in an Alabama twister to Orlando. Now, after a ridiculously long layoff, we see if the Magic’s version of team ball can take down Kobe and company. My gut tells me the Magic are the more versatile team—Dwight Howard can own the paint, and if the Magic heat up with outside shooting…you have to pick your poison, and consume at will. Redick saw quality time in the Boston Series because of the matchups, less so against Cleveland. We’ll see how they draw this one up with the Lakers.  I think the Los Angeles is a team that lacks a real cohesive heart. I think they lose in 6 games to the Magic.

    The Fairway: Word has it Phil Mickelson will return to the PGA tour—albeit briefly—to play a tuneup..and then the US Open at Bethpage Black. He finished second to Tiger there the last time around, and Woods is not exactly at the top of his game yet. Phil, if he can turn the emotional situation that confronts him with his wife’s illness——into positive energy, could very well win. I know he’ll be the crowd favorite. He’s a guy who has to play with confidence that borders on—and often enters into—reckless abandon. If he gets too safe, he takes a confidence hit..and then lookout. Scramble city.

    The Green:  State Tennis singles titles tomorrow and SW Virginia could very well win a few. I would imagine Salem’s O’Keefe has to be the favorite as the defending state champ. If I’m not mistaken his mother is a pro at Roanoke Country Club.  We’ll also keep an eye on the Hidden Valley contingent—once again loaded and looking for titles on both the boys and girls sides.  Kristen Harter should be favored to win the Girls AA title, along with Mulik Mubeen of Radford in Boys Group A. Best of luck to all of our local contestants.

  The Jar:  Race fans, do you want to see Dale Jr. and Kyle Busch in a steel-cage match?  How about a no-time limit, demolition derby with their NASCAR rides? If that happens….I’m ALL IN!