Unless an American (Meghan Markle) stole the show by having another self-indulgent episode, it was difficult to understand why American news outlets focused more on the pomp and circumstance of Queen Elizabeth II passing away than the patriotism and courage of what transpired regarding anniversary date of 9/11 attacks. It may be time to call a timeout to break away temporarily from overdosing on royalty. Compared to many European countries, England is more mediocre than hardwood haughty. The increasingly global NBA has showcased its talent across the pond for an extensive period but where were the Brits on NBA rosters? The nation's hoop monarch probably is Michael Olowokandi, a center from Pacific who was Big West Conference player of the year in 1998 before becoming first pick overall in NBA draft. Supplementing the obsessive focus on England, following is an alphabetical list of prominent NCAA Division I players over the years from that nation:

English Native	Pos.	College	Summary of NCAA Division I Playing Career
Amin Adamu	G	Montana State	Averaged 12.4 ppg and 5 rpg from 2019-20 through 2021-22.
Ogo Adegboye	G	St. Bonaventure	Averaged 8.4 ppg, 2.1 rpg and 2.9 apg in 2009-10 and 2010-11.
Daniel Akin	F	Maryland-Baltimore County/California Baptist	Averaged 5.3 ppg and 4.8 rpg while shooting 58.2% from the floor from 2017-18 through 2020-21 with UMBC before averaging 10.8 ppg and team-high 8.1 rpg with Cal Baptist in 2021-22.
Sam Alajiki	F	California	Averaged 3.1 ppg and 1.9 rpg in 2021-22.
Fahro Alihodzic	F-C	Fordham	Averaged 4.5 ppg and 4 rpg as freshman in 2009-10.
David Aliu	F	Morehead State	Averaged 4.2 ppg and 2.8 rpg from 2000-01 through 2003-04.
Ben Allison	F	Davidson	Averaged 4.4 ppg and 3 rpg from 2008-09 to 2010-11.
John Amaechi	C	Penn State	Vanderbilt transfer averaged 15.6 ppg and 8.9 rpg in three years with PSU from 1992-93 through 1994-95. All-Big Ten Conference first-team selection as senior after earning third-team status the previous two seasons.
Michael Anumba	G	Winthrop	Averaged 7 ppg and 3.9 rpg from 2018-19 through 2021-22.
Olu Babaloa	F	Clemson	Averaged 7.6 ppg and 3.7 rpg as sophomore in 2002-03, 9 ppg and 4.6 rpg as junior in 2003-04 and 6.8 ppg and 3.7 rpg as senior in 2004-05.
Tariq Balogun	F	Eastern Kentucky	Averaged 3.2 ppg and 2 rpg from 2019-20 through 2021-22.
Alan Bannister	C	Oklahoma State/Arkansas State	Led the Big Eight Conference in blocked shots per league game with OSU in 1985-86 before transferring to Arkansas State.
Jubrile Belo	F	Montana State	Averaged 13.2 ppg and 6.4 rpg while shooting 60.1% from the floor from 2019-20 through 2021-22.
Mike Bernard	C	South Florida	J.C. recruit averaged 4 ppg and 1.8 rpg in 2000-01 and 2001-02.
Andrew Betts	C	Long Beach State	C.W. Post transfer erupted for 31 points and nine rebounds in an 81-71 upset win over USC in just his second-ever Division I game. He finished his only season with the 49ers in 1997-98 with team-high averages of 18.7 ppg and 10.1 rpg as All-Big West Conference first-team selection.
Kavell Bigby-Williams	F-C	Oregon/LSU	J.C. recruit averaged 5.4 ppg, 4.7 rpg and 1.3 bpg for two different NCAA playoff participants in 2017 and 2019.
Eric Boateng	C	Arizona State	Duke transfer averaged 3.9 ppg and 2.6 rpg with team-high 61.5% field-goal shooting as sophomore in 2007-08 before his averages fell to 1.8 ppg and 2 rpg as junior in 2008-09. Rebounded with 8.8 ppg and team highs of 7.2 rpg, 26 blocked shots and 66.5% field-goal shooting as senior in 2009-10.
Matthew Bryan-Amaning	F	Washington	Averaged 4.2 ppg and 3.2 rpg with team-high 18 blocked shots as freshman in 2007-08, 6 ppg and 4 rpg as sophomore in 2008-09 and 8.8 ppg, 5.9 rpg with team highs of 1.5 bpg and 54% field-goal shooting as junior in 2009-10.
Steve Bucknall	G	North Carolina	Averaged 13.1 ppg as senior in 1988-89 when he was All-ACC second-team selection, finishing his four-year career with 7.5 ppg, 3 rpg and 2.9 apg.
Mantia Callender	C	Middle Tennessee State	J.C. recruit averaged 4.7 ppg and 4.7 rpg in 1996-97 and 1997-98. He had team-high 1.5 bpg as senior.
Danny Carter	F-C	Stony Brook	Averaged 3.4 ppg and 2.4 rpg from 2008-09 to 2010-11.
Silas Cheung	G	Mount St. Mary's	One of the top 10 three-point shooters in school history averaged 9.4 ppg as junior in 1995-96 after averaging 6.1 ppg as sophomore.
Martin Clark	F	Boston College	Selected to the Big East Conference's All-Freshman Team in 1980-81. He led the Eagles in rebounding his freshman and sophomore seasons.
Jason Crump	C-F	Towson State	Bowling Green transfer averaged 9 ppg and 6 rpg for Towson as senior in 1994-95.
Robert Dalley	C	The Citadel	Averaged 8.5 ppg and 6.5 rpg for the Bulldogs in 1989-90 and 11 ppg and 5.6 rpg in 1991-92. Missed 1990-91 season because of broken leg.
Luol Deng	F	Duke	Born in Sudan, he averaged 15.1 ppg and 6.9 rpg as All-ACC third-team selection in 2003-04.
Spencer Dunkley	C	Delaware	Finished fifth in the nation with 3.2 bpg in 1992-93 when becoming an All-North Atlantic Conference first-team selection by leading the league in rebounding (12.2 rpg). Paced the Blue Hens in scoring as senior (19.2 ppg) and led them in rebounding three consecutive seasons.
Shaun Durant	C	Lipscomb	Averaged 7.5 ppg and 6.5 rpg in 2004-05 and 2005-06. He led the Bison with 7.2 rpg in 2005-06.
Ben Eaves	F	Rhode Island	UConn transfer averaged 3.4 ppg with URI as sophomore in 2008-09, 3.1 ppg as junior in 2009-10 and 3.5 ppg and 3.1 rpg as senior in 2010-11.
AJ Edu	F	Toledo	Averaged 3.6 ppg, 3.9 rpg and 1.7 bpg in 2018-19.
Tosan Evbuomwan	F	Princeton	Averaged 10.2 ppg, 4.4 rpg and 3.1 apg in 2019-20 and 2021-22.
R.J. Eytle-Rock	G	Maryland-Baltimore County/Utah State	Averaged 9.5 ppg, 3.8 rpg and 2.5 apg from 2018-19 through 2020-21 before averaging 7.8 ppg and 2.3 rpg with USU in 2021-22.
Ekechi Ezugwu	C-F	Eastern Michigan	Averaged 7.7 ppg and 6.1 rpg as senior starter for EMU's NCAA playoff team in 1998.
Oladapo Fagbenle	C	Campbell	Led team with 30 blocked shots as freshman in 2005-06 and 24 in 2007-08.
Neil Fingleton	C	Holy Cross	Redshirt with North Carolina in 2000-01 before transferring. Averaged 2.9 ppg with the Crusaders in 2002-03.
Tom Frederick	F	Morgan State	Averaged 3.5 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 1999-00 and 2000-01.
Caleb Fuller	G	UC Davis	Averaged 7.8 ppg and 3.1 rpg from 2018-19 through 2021-22.
Nick George	F	Virginia Commonwealth	CAA Rookie of the Year in 2002-03 when averaging 8.7 ppg and 6.7 rpg. Contributed 9.2 ppg and 5.9 rpg the next season before becoming an all-league first-team choice in 2004-05 (team highs of 16.8 ppg and 5.8 rpg) and 2005-06 (team-high 16.9 ppg and 5.1 rpg).
Paul Guede	G-F	Portland	Averaged 4.5 ppg and 3.3 rpg from 2008-09 to 2010-11.
Ashley Hamilton	F	Loyola Marymount	Averaged 8.3 ppg and 4.6 rpg in 2008-09 and 2009-10.
Martin Henlan	C	Virginia Commonwealth	Led the Rams in rebounding in 1988-89 (9 rpg) and 1989-90 (7.7 rpg).
Kayne Henry	G-F	Jacksonville State	Averaged 9.4 ppg and 5.9 rpg from 2019-20 through 2021-22.
Delme Herriman	F	Wright State	Averaged 9.9 ppg and 5.4 rpg in 1994-95 and 9.3 ppg and 6.1 rpg in 1995-96.
Cameron Hildreth	G	Wake Forest	Averaged 3.9 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 2021-22.
Boban Jacdonmi	F	Southern Mississippi	Averaged 4.4 ppg and 2.9 rpg in 2018-19 and 2019-20.
Shaun James	F	Canisius	J.C. recruit averaged 3.1 ppg and 3.6 rpg in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
Gedi Juozapaitis	G	Georgia Southern	Flagler (Fla.) averaged 7.7 ppg in 2020-21 and 2021-22.
Jonathan Komagum	F	Sacramento State	Toledo transfer averaged 5.9 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.5 bpg in 2021-22.
Dazflo Larkai	F	La Salle	Averaged 4.4 ppg and 4 rpg as freshman in 2002-03 and started eight games as sophomore in 2003-04.
Dwayne Lautier-Ogunleye	G-F	Bradley	Averaged 8.1 ppg, 4.3 rpg and 2.4 apg from 2015-16 through 2018-19.
Andrew Lawrence	G	College of Charleston	Averaged 9.1 ppg, 2.2 rpg, 2.9 apg and 1.2 spg from 2009-10 through 2012-13. All-Southern Conference second-team selection each of his last two seasons.
Josh McSwiggan	F	Portland	Averaged 10 ppg and 3.7 rpg in 2017-18 and 2018-19.
Matt Meakin	C	Mount St. Mary's	Averaged 2.9 ppg and 3.2 rpg from 1991-92 through 1994-95. Member of school's first NCAA Division I team as senior.
Kojo Mensah-Bonsu	F	Washington State	J.C. recruit averaged 9.2 ppg and 4.5 rpg with team-high 51.5% shooting from the floor as junior in 1997-98 before averaging 13.1 ppg and team-high 6 rpg in 1998-99.
Pops Mensah-Bonsu	F	George Washington	Averaged 10.1 ppg and 5.7 rpg while shooting team-high 58.5% from the floor as a freshman in 2002-03 and 11.6 ppg, 5.4 rpg and team-high 61.6% field-goal shooting as a sophomore in 2003-04. Became an All-Atlantic 10 Conference second-team selection as junior in 2004-05 when he averaged 12.6 ppg and 6.6 while shooting team-high 57.1% from the floor and first-team choice as senior in 2005-06 with 12.6 ppg and 6.7 rpg plus team highs of 1.7 bpg and 56.4 FG%.
Aaron Menzies	C	Seattle/Saint Mary's	Averaged 8.7 ppg, 6.8 rpg and 1.4 bpg with Seattle from 2015-16 through 2017-18 before averaging 2.5 ppg and 1.7 rpg with the Gaels in 2019-20.
Alan Metcalfe	F	Vanderbilt	Averaged 3.2 ppg and 1.8 rpg from 2004-05 through 2007-08.
Richard Midgley	G	California	Averaged 10.2 ppg, 2.8 rpg, 2.5 apg and 1 spg from 2002-03 through 2005-06.
Will Ohuaregbe	F	UNC Wilmington	Averaged 4 ppg and 4.8 rpg as freshman in 2009-10.
Mate Okros	F	Drexel	Averaged 5.9 ppg and 2 rpg from 2019-20 through 2021-22.
Michael Olowokandi	C	Pacific	Averaged 10.9 ppg and 6.6 rpg with 57% field-goal shooting in 1996-97 before becoming Big West Conference player of the year the next season as senior when posting team highs of 22.2 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 2.8 bpg and 60.8% from the floor. First pick overall in 1998 NBA draft.
Ugonna Onyekwe	F	Penn	Averaged 14.9 ppg and 6.4 rpg while hitting 50.6% of his field-goal attempts from 1999-00 through 2002-03. Ivy League player of the year as junior (17.5 ppg, 6 rpg) and senior (16.5 ppg, 6.4 rpg). Led the Quakers in rebounding (7.5 rpg) as sophomore.
Great Osobor	F	Montana State	Averaged 6 ppg and 4.2 rpg while shooting 68.1% from the floor as a freshman in 2021-22.
Chris Pearson	F	Davidson	Averaged 7.8 ppg and team-high 6.8 rpg as sophomore in 2000-01. All-Southern Conference second-team selection the next year when averaging 11.7 ppg and 8.4 rpg, finishing his career with 7.7 ppg, 6.1 rpg and 1.2 bpg.
Liam Potter	C	Sacred Heart	Averaged 4.7 ppg and 3.9 rpg from 2005-06 through 2009-10. Shot team-high 65.9% from the floor as sophomore in 2006-07 and paced the Pioneers in rebounding (8.3 rpg) and blocks (2 bpg) as senior. Named Most Improved Player in the Northeast Conference in 2009-10 after redshirting the previous season.
Ethan Price	F	Eastern Washington	Big Sky Conference Freshman of the Year in 2021-22 when averaging 9.9 ppg and 4.9 rpg.
Marc Pratt	F	Towson	Averaged 3.7 ppg and 2.2 rpg in 2005-06 and 2006-07.
Robert Reed	F-C	Rider	Averaged 4.5 ppg and 4.4 rpg from 1999-00 through 2002-03. Posted career-high 7.8 ppg and team-high 6.8 rpg as senior.
Justin Robinson	G	Rider	Averaged 11.2 ppg, 2.9 rpg and 3 apg from 2007-08 to 2010-11. Led the Broncs with 2.8 apg, 1.5 spg, 64 three-pointers and 88.3% free-throw shooting as junior.
Sam Robson	C	UC Santa Barbara	UNC Charlotte transfer was senior starter in 1991-92 when averaging 4.2 ppg and 3.2 rpg.
Jeremy Sochan	F	Baylor	Averaged 9.2 ppg and 6.4 rpg as a freshman in 2021-22 before becoming ninth pick overall in NBA draft.
Ovie Soko	F	UAB/Duquesne	Averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.9 rpg with UAB from 2009-10 through 2011-12 before averaging 18.4 ppg and 8 rpg with Duquesne in 2013-14.
Andrew Sullivan	F	Villanova	Averaged 3.9 ppg and 3.4 rpg from 1999-00 through 2002-03.
Chris Timms	C	Denver	J.C. recruit averaged 2.6 ppg and shot team-high 59.1% from the floor in 2006-07.
Zion Tordoff	F	Marist/Houston Baptist	Averaged 3 ppg and 2.4 rpg with Marist in 2019-20 and 7 ppg and 4.3 rpg with HBU in 2021-22.
Josh Uduje	G	Coastal Carolina	Averaged 6.8 ppg and 2.8 rpg in 2021-22.
Shane Walker	F	Loyola (Md.)	Played sparingly with Maryland in 2007-08 before transferring to Loyola (Md.), where he averaged 8.7 ppg with team highs of 6.6 rpg and 1.5 bpg as sophomore in 2009-10 before contributing 11 ppg, 7.6 rpg and 1.9 bpg as junior in 2010-11.
Shaquille Walters	G-F	Santa Clara/Northeastern	Averaged 3.8 ppg for Santa Clara in 2017-18 before averaging 8.6 ppg and 4.3 rpg with Northeastern from 2018-19 through 2021-22.
Amari Williams	F	Drexel	Averaged 6.6 ppg and 5.1 rpg in 2020-21 and 2021-22.
Akwasi Yeboah	F	Stony Brook/Rutgers	Averaged 13.9 ppg and 6 rpg with SBU from 2016-17 through 2018-19 before averaging 9.8 ppg and 4.8 rpg for the Scarlet Knights in 2019-20.

Extra! Extra! Instead of mocking #MessMedia misfits trying to discern whether rooftop-dancing/climate-change hysteria bartender AOC, Master of Disaster Plagiarist Bile-dumb, romance novelist Stacey Abrams, Cacklin' Kamala, Lov Gov Andrew "Kinky" Cuomo, Michael #Avenaughty, Sick Willie, #ShrillaryRotten, John Edwards, Blasey Fraud, Al Franken, Al Bore, Katie Hill, Lori Lightweight, #MadMaxine, brother-loving Odd Squad orator Omar, prayerful Speaker #NannyPathetic, Adam #SackofSchiff, Schmucky Schumer, T-bone buddy Spartacus, Eliot Spitzer, Eric "Chinese Check-her(out)" Swalwell, fake squaw #Liesalot Warren or Anthony Weiner is most credible #Dimorat, you can read news about memorable major league baseball achievements and moments involving former college basketball players. Baseball is portrayed as a thinking man's game but only 4% of active MLB players earned college diplomas. Nonetheless, numerous ex-college hoopers had front-row seats to many of the most notable games, transactions and dates in MLB history.

Former Manhattan hoopers Buddy Hassett and Xavier Rescigno supplied significant MLB performances on this date. Ditto three ex-hoopers from small colleges in Pennsylvania - Al Downing (Muhlenberg), Frank Grube (Lafayette) and Monte Irvin (Lincoln). Former juco hoopers Darrell Evans (Pasadena City CA) and Jim Thome (Illinois Central) each went downtown twice in at least one game on this date. Unless you habitually pore over the content at baseballlibrary.com, baseballreference.com and nationalpastime.com, following is a September 12 calendar focusing on such versatile MLB athletes:

SEPTEMBER 12

• Milwaukee Braves 1B Joe Adcock (Louisiana State's leading basketball scorer in 1945-46) tied MLB single-season mark in 1956 when swatting his 13th homer against a single team (Brooklyn Dodgers).

• Washington Senators OF Brant Alyea (Hofstra's leading scorer and rebounder in 1960-61 after being runner-up in both categories the previous season) debuted in 1965 with a pinch-hit homer on first pitch to him against the California Angels.

• Detroit Tigers RHP Elden Auker (All-Big Six first-five selection with Kansas State in 1931-32) posted his second win streak of at least six games en route to leading the A.L. in winning percentage in 1935.

• Boston Braves rookie 2B Jack Dittmer (played hoops briefly for Iowa in 1949-50), entering a 1952 doubleheader hitting .182, belted a homer in both ends of the twinbill while going 5-for-8 and scoring five runs against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

• Los Angeles Dodgers LHP Al Downing (attended Muhlenberg PA on hoops scholarship but departed before ever playing) tossed a two-hit shutout against the San Francisco Giants in 1974.

• Atlanta Braves 3B Darrell Evans (member of Jerry Tarkanian-coached Pasadena City CA club winning 1967 state community college crown) homered twice in a 1973 game against the San Francisco Giants. The next year as a 1B, Evans homered in both ends of 1974 doubleheader against the Cincinnati Reds.

• Chicago White Sox RHP Eddie Fisher (played for Oklahoma's 1954-55 freshman hoops squad) toiled 11 innings to beat the Minnesota Twins, 2-1, in 1962.

• In 1931, Chicago White Sox rookie C Frank Grube (Lafayette starting hoops guard as senior in 1926-27) launched his lone MLB homer.

• Brooklyn Robins rookie 1B Buddy Hassett (hooper for Manhattan teams winning school-record 17 consecutive contests in 1930 and 1931) supplied a pair of doubles in both ends of 1936 twinbill split against the St. Louis Cardinals.

• Los Angeles Dodgers RF Frank Howard (two-time All-Big Ten Conference first-team selection when leading Ohio State in scoring and rebounding in 1956-57 and 1957-58) went 4-for-4 against the New York Mets in a 1964 contest. Four years later as a 1B with the Washington Senators, Howard homered twice against the Baltimore Orioles in a 1968 outing.

• Extending his hitting streak to a career-high 14 games in a row, New York Giants LF Monte Irvin (Lincoln PA hooper 1 1/2 years in late 1930s) provided three hits in each contest of a 1952 doubleheader split with the Cincinnati Reds.

• Atlanta Braves RF David Justice (Thomas More KY assists leader in 1984-85 while averaging 9.3 ppg and 3.5 rpg) homered twice against the Houston Astros in a 1992 game.

• Cleveland Indians 3B Graig Nettles (shot 87.8% from free-throw line for San Diego State in 1963-64) drilled two homers against the New York Yankees in a 1971 contest.

• Chicago Cubs RF Bill Nicholson (hoops guard for Washington College MD two years in mid-1930s) went 4-for-4 against the Philadelphia Phillies in a 1940 outing.

• Minnesota Twins RHP Jim Perry (averaged more than 20 ppg in late 1950s for former juco Campbell) posted a shutout against the Kansas City Royals en route to winning 14 of his last 16 decisions of the 1969 campaign.

• RHP Cotton Pippen (Texas Western hoops letterman in 1929-30) awarded on waivers from the Philadelphia Athletics to the Detroit Tigers in 1939.

• LHP Dennis Rasmussen (sixth-man for Creighton averaged 5.1 ppg in three seasons from 1977-78 through 1979-80) shipped by the New York Yankees to the San Diego Padres in 1983 to complete an earlier deal.

• Pittsburgh Pirates rookie RHP Xavier Rescigno (Manhattan hooper in 1932 and 1933) registered his lone MLB shutout (four-hitter against Cincinnati Reds in nightcap of 1943 doubleheader).

• Pittsburgh Pirates RHP Kent Tekulve (freshman hooper for Marietta OH in mid-1960s) tallied his seventh save in less than a month in 1976.

• Cleveland Indians 3B Jim Thome (juco hooper for Illinois Central in 1988-89) jacked two taters in a 1996 game against the California Angels.

• Philadelphia Phillies CF Cy Williams (Notre Dame forward in 1909-10) launched two homers and triple among his four hits in a 1924 game against his original team (Chicago Cubs).

• Chicago Cubs RHP Jim Willis (Northwestern State hoops letterman in 1944-45 and from 1947-48 through 1949-50) tossed back-to-back complete-game victories in 1953.

Extra! Extra! Instead of watching series of delusional #Dimorat experts at stealing valor on a sacred day (9/11) and discussing F-Biden yard signs/football-game chants from those individuals for whom Plagiarist Bile-dumb has more animosity than Taliban thugs and summer-of-love rioters, you can read news about memorable major league baseball achievements and moments involving former college basketball players. Baseball is portrayed as a thinking man's game but only 4% of active MLB players earned college diplomas. Nonetheless, numerous ex-college hoopers had front-row seats to many of the most notable games, transactions and dates in MLB history.

Former Texas college hoopers Len Goldstein (Texas Wesleyan), Dutch Meyer (TCU), Wally Moon (Texas A&M) and Carl Reynolds (Southwestern) made MLB headlines on this date. Ditto ex-NYU hoopers Ralph Branca and Hank Greenberg plus ex-CA community college hoopers Darrell Evans and Bob Oliver. Several former small-college hoopers from Illinois also made MLB news on this date - Geoff Hartlieb (Quincy), Champ Summers (SIUE) and Evar Swanson (Knox). Unless you habitually pore over the content at baseballlibrary.com, baseballreference.com and nationalpastime.com, following is a September 11 calendar focusing on such versatile MLB athletes:

SEPTEMBER 11

• Milwaukee Braves 1B Joe Adcock (Louisiana State's leading basketball scorer in 1945-46) suffered a broken hand, ending his 1954 season.

• St. Louis Browns RHP Elden Auker (All-Big Six Conference first-five selection with Kansas State in 1931-32) fired his second five-hit shutout in a 10-day span in 1940.

• Pittsburgh Pirates LF Carson "Skeeter" Bigbee (Oregon hoops letterman in 1915) banged out four hits for the second time in a seven-game span in 1919.

• Chicago White Sox 1B Zeke Bonura (best basketball forward for Loyola LA in late 1920s and early 1930s) went 5-for-5 with four RBI in a 17-2 win against the Philadelphia Athletics in 1936.

• Although only 21 years old, Brooklyn Dodgers RHP Ralph Branca (sixth-leading scorer for NYU in 1943-44) notched his 20th victory in 1947.

• Baltimore Orioles rookie OF Al Bumbry (Virginia State's runner-up in scoring with 16.7 ppg as freshman in 1964-65) provided four hits for the second time in a five-game span in 1973.

• Detroit Tigers 1B Walt Dropo (first player in Connecticut history to average at least 20 ppg in single season with 21.7 ppg in 1942-43) homered twice in a 5-4 triumph against the Boston Red Sox in 1952.

• Cleveland Indians 3B Frank Ellerbe (Wofford hooper after transferring from Sewanee TN) whacked a pinch-hit, grand slam in top of ninth inning of 12-7 win against the St. Louis Browns in opener of 1924 twinbill.

• Detroit Tigers 1B Darrell Evans (member of Jerry Tarkanian-coached Pasadena City CA club that won 1967 state community college crown) went 4-for-4 in a 1984 contest against the Baltimore Orioles.

• Boston Braves 1B Kerby Farrell (key hooper for couple of strong Freed-Hardeman TN squads in mid-1930s) supplied four hits against the New York Giants in a 13-inning game in 1943.

• Chicago Cubs LF Jim Gleeson (captain and all-conference honoree graduated in 1933 from Rockhurst MO) stroked three doubles in an 8-5 win against the Brooklyn Dodgers in the opener of a 1940 doubleheader.

• Cincinnati Reds 1B Lon Goldstein (Texas Wesleyan hoops standout in late 1930s) singled as a pinch-hitter in his first MLB plate appearance in 1943 against the Pittsburgh Pirates. It was Goldstein's lone MLB safety.

• Detroit Tigers 1B Hank Greenberg (enrolled at NYU on hoops scholarship in 1929 but attended college only one semester) secured four hits against the Washington Senators in a 1935 outing.

• San Francisco Giants All-Star LHP Atlee Hammaker (averaged 5.3 ppg as a freshman in 1976-77 and 4.9 as a sophomore in 1977-78 under East Tennessee State coach Sonny Smith) fanned 14 Houston Astros in a 1983 game.

• Pittsburgh Pirates RHP Geoff Hartlieb (averaged 1.8 ppg and 1.1 rpg for Quincy IL in 2012-13 before transferring to Lindenwood MO to concentrate on baseball) yielded only two hits during stretch of six straight scoreless relief appearances totaling 7 1/3 innings in 2020.

• Brooklyn Robins CF Harvey Hendrick (Vanderbilt hoops letterman in 1918) went 4-for-4 against the Philadelphia Phillies in the opener of a 1928 twinbill.

• New York Giants LF Monte Irvin (Lincoln PA hooper 1 1/2 years in late 1930s) contributed his fifth steal of home during the 1951 campaign.

• Milwaukee Braves SS Johnny Logan (played for Binghamton in 1948-49) contributed four hits for the second time in three games in 1955.

• New York Giants RHP Christy Mathewson (Bucknell hooper at turn of 20th Century) tossed shutouts in 1906 and 1909.

• CF Bake McBride (averaged 12.7 ppg and 8.1 rpg in 21 games with Westminster MO in 1968-69 and 1969-70) scampered all the way home from first base after an errant pickoff attempt for the decisive run, giving the St. Louis Cardinals a 25-inning, 4-3 win at New York in 1974. The marathon was the longest game to a decision in MLB history, lasting 7 hours 4 minutes.

• Detroit Tigers 2B Dutch Meyer (Texas Christian hoops letterman in 1934-35 and 1935-36) manufactured two doubles among his four hits in a 5-4 triumph against the New York Yankees in 1941.

• Los Angeles Dodgers LF Wally Moon (averaged 4.3 ppg with Texas A&M in 1948-49 and 1949-50) delivered two homers against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the opener of a 1959 twinbill. Moon also homered in his next three contests.

• Washington Senators 2B Buddy Myer (Mississippi State hoops letterman in 1923-24) went 4-for-4 and scored four runs against the Chicago White Sox in the nightcap of a 1932 doubleheader.

• New York Yankees 3B Graig Nettles (shot 87.8% from free-throw line for San Diego State in 1963-64) cracked two homers against the Milwaukee Brewers in a 1975 outing.

• Utilityman Bob Oliver (All-Valley Conference basketball choice for American River Community College CA in 1962) traded by the California Angels to Baltimore Orioles for a player to be designated and cash in 1974.

• Cincinnati Reds 2B Pinky Pittenger (set Toledo's single-game scoring standard with 49 points in 1918-19) went 6-for-8, including his lone MLB homer, and scored five runs against the Boston Braves in a 1927 twinbill.

• Chicago Cubs INF Paul Popovich (averaged 3.3 ppg for West Virginia's 1960 NCAA playoff team) pounded a grand slam in a 7-0 victory against the St. Louis Cardinals in 1971.

• Chicago White Sox rookie RF Carl Reynolds (Southwestern TX hoops MVP and captain in mid-1920s) went 4-for-4 and scored three runs in a 1928 game against the Detroit Tigers.

• Philadelphia Phillies RHP Robin Roberts (Michigan State's second-leading scorer in 1945-46 and 1946-47) hurled a three-hit shutout against the San Francisco Giants in 1959, ending rookie 1B Willie McCovey's 22-game hitting streak.

• A pinch-hit, three-run homer in the 12th inning by OF Champ Summers (led SIUE in scoring in 1969-70 after doing same with Nicholls State in 1964-65) powered the Chicago Cubs to a 4-1 win against the Philadelphia Phillies in 1976.

• OF Evar Swanson (played all five positions for Knox IL when it was known as Lombard College) traded by the St. Louis Cardinals to the Chicago White Sox for two players to be designated in 1932.

• Philadelphia Phillies CF Cy Williams (Notre Dame forward in 1909-10) stroked three doubles against the Pittsburgh Pirates in a 1920 game. Three years later, Williams homered twice against the Brooklyn Dodgers in a 1923 contest.

• San Francisco Giants CF Randy Winn (Santa Clara backcourtmate of eventual two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Steve Nash in 1993-94) doubled in his fifth consecutive outing with multiple hits in 2005.

Long before kneeling knuckleheads and multiple anthems, the NCAA Tournament commenced in 1939, which was one year after the NIT triggered national postseason competition. An overlooked "versatile athlete" feat occurring in 1938 likely never to be duplicated took place at Arkansas, where the quarterback for the football squad (Jack Robbins) repeated as an All-SWC first-team basketball selection, leading the Razorbacks (19-3) to the league title. After the season, Robbins became an NFL first-round draft choice by the Chicago Cardinals (5th pick overall) and senior football/basketball teammates Jim Benton (11th pick by Cleveland Rams) and Ray Hamilton (41st pick by Rams) went on to become wide receivers for at least six years in the NFL. Yes, they created a kneeling-in-admiration shatterproof achievement - three do-everything members of a league championship basketball squad who promptly were among the top 41 selections in the same NFL draft.

Two years later, All-SWC first-team hoop selection Howard "Red" Hickey was instrumental in Arkansas reaching the 1941 Final Four before becoming an end for the Cleveland Rams' 1945 NFL titlist. Two-sport college teammate and fellow end O'Neal Adams scored five touchdowns for the New York Giants the first half of the 1940s. Another two-sport Hog who played for the Giants in the mid-1940s was Harry Wynne. An earlier versatile Razorback was Jim Lee Howell, who was an All-SWC first five hoop selection in 1935-36 before becoming a starting end for the Giants' 1938 NFL titlist and Pro Bowl participant the next year. Adams, Benton, Hamilton, Hickey and Howell combined for 77 touchdowns in an 11-year span from 1938 through 1948 when at least one of the ex-Razorback hoopers scored a TD in each of those seasons.

Hickey and ex-Hog All-SWC second-team hooper in 1929-30/NFL end Milan Creighton each coached NFL franchises. Many other ex-college hoopers also displayed their wares on the gridiron. Following is exhaustive research you can tackle regarding former college basketball players who made a name for themselves on September 10 in football at the professional level (especially in 1978):

SEPTEMBER 10

• Philadelphia Eagles WR Harold Carmichael (starter two seasons for Southern LA averaged 9.8 ppg and 10.6 rpg in 1969-70) caught nine passes for 127 yards in a 14-10 setback against the Atlanta Falcons in 1979 en route to becoming Philly's all-time receiving leader.

• Buffalo Bills LB London Fletcher (started two games for St. Francis PA as freshman in 1993-94 before transferring to John Carroll OH) scored a touchdown on a fumble recovery in a 19-17 setback against the New England Patriots in 2006 season opener.

• Los Angeles Dons rookie WR Len Ford (center for Morgan State's CIAA hoops titlist in 1944) opened the AAFC game's scoring with a 27-yard touchdown catch in 17-7 win against the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1948.

• Washington Redskins TE Jean Fugett (leading scorer and rebounder for Amherst MA as junior in 1970-71) caught two second-quarter touchdown passes from Joe Theismann in a 35-30 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1978.

• Buffalo Bills TE Reuben Gant (averaged 1.4 ppg and 1.5 rpg for Oklahoma State in 1971-72 and 1972-73) caught six passes for 100 yards in a 21-20 setback against the New York Jets in 1978. Jets SS Shafer Suggs (averaged 10.7 ppg and 7.9 rpg in three-year career, setting Ball State record with nine consecutive field goals without miss and leading Cardinals in rebounding in 1974-75) returned an interception 32 yards.

• Kansas City Chiefs TE Tony Gonzalez (averaged 6.4 ppg and 4.3 rpg for California from 1994-95 through 1996-97) caught 10 passes in a 23-10 setback against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2006 season opener.

• San Diego Chargers SS Rodney Harrison (averaged 7.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 3 apg and 1.6 spg for Western Illinois in 1992-93) intercepted two passes in a 14-10 win against the Seattle Seahawks in 1995.

• Atlanta Falcons CB Rolland Lawrence (captain of Tabor KS hoops squad as senior in 1972-73) returned an interception 44 yards in 10-0 setback against the Los Angeles Rams in 1978.

• San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (Southern California hooper as junior in 1979-80) had two interceptions in a 13-12 win against the New Orleans Saints in 1990 season opener.

• QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97), the Philadelphia Eagles' all-time passing leader, passed for 314 yards and three touchdowns in a 24-10 win against the Houston Texans in 2006 season opener.

• Brooklyn Dodgers QB Reino Nori (four-year hoops letterman for Northern Illinois in mid-1930s) threw a decisive 60-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter of 13-7 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 1937.

• Buffalo Bills WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) caught two fourth-quarter touchdown passes from Jack Kemp (24 and 27 yards) in a 20-17 win against the New York Jets in 1967 AFL season opener.

• Chicago Cardinals TB Jack Robbins (repeated as All-SWC first-team selection in 1938 for Arkansas) threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes (46 and 30 yards) in a 21-13 setback against the Detroit Lions in 1939 season opener.

• WR Rod Smith (Missouri Southern State hoops letterman as sophomore swingman in 1990-91), the Denver Broncos' all-time receiving leader, caught two touchdown passes from Brian Griese in a 42-14 win against the Atlanta Falcons in 2000.

• Dallas Cowboys QB Roger Staubach (Navy varsity hooper in 1962-63) threw two first-half touchdown passes in a 34-24 win against the New York Giants in 1978.

• In 1961 AFL season opener, Denver Broncos SE Lionel Taylor (led New Mexico Highlands in scoring average with 13.6 ppg in 1955-56 and 20.3 in 1956-57) had seven pass receptions for 132 yards - including two touchdowns - in a 22-10 win against the Buffalo Bills.

• Cincinnati Bengals rookie TE Melvin Tuten (scored seven points in four games for Syracuse in 1994-95 under coach Jim Boeheim) caught a go-ahead touchdown pass in 24-17 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars in 1995.

The 45th anniversary of death of rock 'n' roll icon Elvis Presley occurred last month. "Memphis Mafia" was the tag given by him to hangers-on whose principal functions were to deliver everything to "The King" on a silver platter. His closest friends and employees embraced the acronym TCB ("Taking Care of Business"). But Elvis' Jailhouse Rock on 45 RPM record takes on a whole new meaning as soft-on-crime Memphis descends deeper into a cesspool. Junk judicial system in #Dimorat-governed municipalities was depicted again in Memphis recently allowing early-morning jogger/kindergarten teacher to be kidnapped and murdered by stalker before live-streamed shooting spree killing of four people by another demented local loser.

In music lingo, Don't Be Cruel while cancelling "Gone With the Wind" screenings, but it is Now or Never to face some Fever facts. Within a month of Elvis' commemoration, Memphis was All Shook Up when reminded again how it resembles a hell-hole In the Ghetto facing huge problem of a fundamental absence of dignity and direction. Resembling community-at-large, multiple former Memphis-connected hoopers generated Heartbreak Hotel headlines by running afoul of the law. Any Day Now, it might be hailed as more Memphis Mayhem or Memphis Mess than Memphis Mafia, but Elvis would have been singing a spinoff called Jailhouse Jock stemming from the inordinate number of Memphis Misfits.

Rather than focusing on avoiding being kicked to the curb, former Memphis Grizzlies coach David Fizdale might not have been intentionally seeking Trouble evoking suspect values of civil-rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. in imploring Memphis to remove Confederate statues. MLK Jr. was assassinated in Memphis in 1968 after traveling there in support of striking African-American city sanitation workers. But unless delusional Fizdale simplistically thought his instant-impulse personal pinata, The Devil in Disguise (#TheDonald), is solely responsible for total eclipse of values in Memphis the last three decades or so, Suspicious Minds could counter that culture rot needing sanitized in Memphis should dwell a mite more on personal responsibility and scholars worshiped simply because they can jump "high" and dribble a basketball.

It isn't Always On My Mind and wasn't delivered like some masked Antifa anarchist, but Fizdale is well known for his insulting "Take that for data!" NBA playoffs rant. In a Return to Sender of sorts, only A Fool Such As I should remind him about former Tigers coach Dana Kirk's grotesque graduation data (six of his 60 four-year scholarship players earned diplomas during 1980s before he was imprisoned). Amid excessive educational exploitation and abject failure of local leadership exemplified by sordid AAU sexual abuse stories earlier the last decade, the academic anemia can't possibly be portrayed in a more favorable light in the 21st Century by Fizdale or anyone credible in his vocation. After all, many pro and college coaches are more concerned about patronizing African-American lifeline fond of free "Obama" phones by phoning it in driving hard-left free advertising down our throats dumping on Donald rather than steadfastly supporting stronger scholastic standards.

Physician (or left-coast native coach in this instance), heal thyself! OK, genius! Do you want USC's mascot steed in your home state of California put to sleep since its name (Traveler) is same as Lee's famous horse? Should Elvis statue on Beale Street come down because he initiated Blue Suede Shoes meeting with a Republican President (Richard Nixon won stunning 1/3 of black vote in national elections)? Social scholar probably supports substituting Presley with Fizdale's most visible veteran player (wayward Zach Randolph). Anyone defending Memphis' misguided priorities is indeed "stupid or sick" unless, of course, you're a social genius like San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. At the risk of needing to write SSN on forearm to cope with torrent of left-wing indignation, Shake, Rattle and Roll while trying to answer some sarcastic questions. Does this selective outrage include putting MLK memorial on chopping block because he was a sexist and womanizer? How about boycotting race baiter Al "No So" Sharpton since he is a tax cheat or banning any sports reference to "lefty" #AudacityofHype following feeble mom-jeans heave at MLB All-Star Game impressing only the less-than-intelligent community?

How did p-c pansies ruin our sensibilities to the point of contemplating whether ESPN (Extra Sensitive Pious Network), a sports network without balls except those exposed by Scott Van Pelt's old radio show partner, should possibly prohibit former sage Bob Ley (short for Robert; sounds same as Lee) from generalizing about African-American activity crossing border into Charlottesville? In order to adequately TCB, Fizdale (now in Utah Jazz front office after member of Minnesota Timberwolves traveling party reportedly was robbed at knifepoint this spring) and other victim-hood leaders should focus on issues far exceeding the importance of inanimate objects. #TheDonald might call the municipality a spit-hole when it comes to supplying authentic student-athletes. Monument Mania moguls, including equally left-leaning USA Today sanctioning ESPN's foolishness, need to help reduce the following alarming number of Memphis-based or Memphis-connected collegiate members of alternate-universe KKK (Known Knucklehead Kings) detailed in the following alphabetical "lineup" list:

Andre Allen, Memphis (coach was John Calipari) - Arrested in fall of 2010 and faced charges including possession of marijuana with intent to sell, improper display of registration and violation of light law. Police also noticed a loaded handgun in Allen's pants although he had a handgun carry permit. The backup to standout point guard Derrick Rose was suspended from the Tigers' 2008 squad before it reached the Final Four for failing an NCAA-mandated drug test. He spent his first season out of uniform focusing on academics and dealing with charges of soliciting a prostitute. In the fall of 2014, Allen was arrested after officials said they found money, pot and a stolen loaded gun in his Cadillac. In late March 2019, he was arrested at his residence after narcotics detectives executed a search warrant.

Vincent Askew, Memphis State (Kirk) - Freshman starter for the Tigers' 1985 Final Four team was arrested in mid-August 2008, accused of unlawfully having sex with a minor (16-year-old girl) in a Miami hotel room. He pleaded guilty to a charge of child abuse with no great bodily harm and was placed on probation for three years. Briefly coached Elliston Baptist Academy in Memphis before leaving the job under a cloud. Attended summer school at Kansas under Larry Brown before budding transfer returned to Memphis. KU was placed on probation stemming from wrongdoing in connection with improper inducements to Askew.

Sean Banks, Memphis (Calipari) - C-USA Freshman of the Year in 2004 and three accomplices allegedly linked to a ring known as the James Bond Gang were arrested in his home state of New Jersey in early August 2011 after a couple of luxury-home burglaries and high-speed chase. More than $20,000 in jewelry and other valuables taken during the two heists were found in the stolen SUV. A marijuana arrest, disruptive behavior and academic issues forced Banks' departure from Memphis midway through his sophomore season. Suspended several games in high school after being a passenger in a car that police attempted to stop for driving erratically before it sped off. Upon ditching the auto, Banks and the other passengers tried to run off, but were caught. According to ShamSports.com, Banks' background included an arrest for burning a gang insignia into a teenage girl's leg. In late September 2013, he was arrested in connection with a domestic violence complaint involving the mother of his child.

Corey Beck, Arkansas (Nolan Richardson Jr.) - Arrested at 2:00 a.m. midway through 1992-93 season for allegedly driving while intoxicated before pacing the NCAA champion Hogs in assists and steals the next campaign. In early November 2004, he was jailed for the third time in two years for failure to pay child support and violating his probation. According to court documents, Beck flunked multiple drug tests for cocaine, admitted to marijuana use and lied to his probation officer about where he lived. In the fall of 2007, he was shot in the hand and face defending himself during an attempted auto theft in Memphis. Arrested in summer of 2008 for contempt of court stemming from failure to pay child support for four daughters. In summer of 2010, he was booked into jail at almost 3:00 a.m. following an arrest for driving while intoxicated. Arrested in late January 2013 for failure to pay fines and costs in connection with his conviction for driving while intoxicated and other traffic offenses in 2011.

William Bedford, Memphis State (Kirk) - All-American as a junior in 1985-86 was arrested in February 2001 after Taylor, Mich., police said they found 25 pounds of marijuana in his car. Subsequently served time in a Fort Worth, Tex., prison on drug-related charges. In 1987, he was subpoenaed by a Maricopa County (Ariz.) grand jury investigating drug use among Phoenix Suns players and testified against his teammates after receiving immunity. In March 1988, Bedford admitted he was addicted to cocaine and marijuana and was committed to the NBA's treatment facility in Van Nuys, Calif. Known as "Willie B" - as in "Will he be at practice?" - Bedford relapsed the following October and was readmitted to the clinic. When he returned, his behavior on and off the court grew more erratic. He received a dozen traffic tickets and 10 license suspensions in less than four years. In September 1997, Bedford, who was on three years probation at the time, tested positive for cocaine and was sent to a Texas state jail for one year. Also arrested in Texas for failing to pay more than $300,000 in child support.

Leron Black, Illinois (John Groce) - Memphis native, after missing much of season because of a knee injury, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor aggravated assault stemming from his arrest in mid-February 2016 for allegedly pulling a knife on a bouncer at a nightclub.

Jarekious Bradley, Kent State (Rob Senderoff)/Southeast Missouri State (Dickey Nutt) - Memphis recruit was arrested in mid-July 2011 after an incident with his former girlfriend resulted in charges of aggravated burglary and criminal damaging. A woman claimed Bradley came inside her apartment without permission and demanded money he felt she owed him. At one point, deputies say, Bradley tried to remove money from the woman's purse, prompting a physical confrontation between them with the woman incurring an injury. Other individuals in the apartment gave Bradley money and he left.

Antonio Burks, Memphis (Calipari) - C-USA Player of the Year in 2003-04 was shot by a robber (subsequently sentenced to 97 years in prison) in the abdomen during a dice game in 2009 in the backyard of a vacant duplex. In early June 2015, he was arrested after a fight with his girlfriend. In the fall of 2006, Burks was arrested for not appearing in court regarding a speeding ticket. In late July 2021, Burks was arrested for illegal gambling.

Randy Carter, Minnesota (Clem Haskins) - Four-year starting forward from 1990-91 through 1993-94 was sentenced to six months in a federal "boot camp" after Memphis product pleaded guilty to cocaine distribution charge involving a government informant.

Raynardo Curry, Western Kentucky (Dennis Felton) - Two-time leader in steals was kicked off WKU's team following 2001-02 season after drug arrest. Faced similar charges earlier in the year. Memphis product previously served three days in jail after pleading guilty to receiving stolen property worth less than $300.

Michael Dixon Jr., Missouri (Mike Anderson and Frank Haith)/Memphis (Josh Pastner) - Big 12 Conference Sixth Man of the Year before receiving same award in AAC in 2013-14 was accused of forcible rape in late summer following Mizzou's 30-5 season in 2011-12, but it was determined there was insufficient evidence to the criminal charges. He was suspended for "a violation of team rules" by the Tigers before choosing to transfer after it was revealed there was another similar incident 2 1/2 years earlier when the alleged victim declined to press charges following coach Anderson reminding her how campus life could become uncomfortable if she proceeded. In a campus police report unearthed by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, an MU employee at the time involved in the first incident said Dixon threatened her if she got pregnant ("kick her in the stomach and push her down the stairs"). Dixon was also suspended in mid-December 2010 for violating team rules. Playing professionally overseas, he was involved in fatal auto accident in Athens, Greece, in early December 2016.

Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis (Calipari) - Pleaded guilty to his involvement in a scheme where nearly 20 NBA players were indicted for fraudulent chiropractic/dental claims. Detroit product Roberts reportedly was a witness threatened by ringleader Terrence Williams, a Louisville All-American in 2008-09 who pleaded guilty to conspiracy and identity theft charges.

Robert Dozier, Memphis (Calipari) - Police took simple assault domestic violence report during 2007-08 campaign before complaint stemming from argument at 3:30 a.m. outside a nightclub was dismissed. Georgia denied him admission in his home state because of questions about SAT score. In mid-February 2019, he was arrested on a domestic assault charge in attack reportedly leaving victim with dislocated shoulder and finger.

Tony Dumas, UMKC (Lee Hunt) - The Kangaroos' leading scorer from 1991-92 through 1993-94 was sued in spring of 1996 by his pregnant girlfriend, accusing him of drinking excessively and subjecting her to a "pattern of physical, verbal and emotional abuse." Several months earlier, member of UMKC's Metro Memphis pipeline was arrested and charged with falsely reporting to police that his car had been stolen.

Tyreke Evans, Memphis (Calipari) - C-USA Rookie of the Year in 2008-09 as Derrick Rose's successor (17.1 ppg, 5.4 rpg, 3.9 apg and 2.1 spg) was arrested at gunpoint in spring of 2010 and charged with reckless driving (120 to 130 MPH in purple Mercedes on Sacramento interstate). Dismissed and disqualified from the NBA for two seasons (2019-20 and 2020-21) after violating terms of league's Anti-Drug Program. He was suspended for one game by the Indiana Pacers early in 2018-19 campaign for tardiness and missed contests later in the season for personal reasons.

Sylvester "Deuce" Ford Jr., Memphis (Larry Finch)/Louisiana State (Dale Brown) - Dismissed from LSU for ubiquitous "violation of team rules" after averaging 11.5 ppg and 5.4 rpg in 17 games in 1995-96.

Cameron Golden, Arkansas State (John Brady) - Three-year starting guard dismissed from squad in fall of 2015 following Memphis product's aggravated robbery arrest.

Greg Hardy, Mississippi (Andy Kennedy) - Backup freshman forward in 2006-07 was arrested as an NFL defensive end. Memphis product missed majority of the 2014 season following charge of attacking and threatening his girlfriend. Arrested in Texas in fall of 2016 on a cocaine possession charge.

Cedric Henderson, Memphis (Finch) - Forward who averaged 13.8 ppg and 5.2 rpg from 1993-94 through 1996-97 was found not guilty in spring of 2016 of domestic violence charges.

Jason Henry, Arkansas (John Pelphrey) - Sentenced to six years in prison after his conviction on prostitution charges. According to a police report, pimp known as "Allstar" was booked in late March 2015 on multiple sex crimes, including the possible rape of a 14-year-old girl. West Memphis product started twice as a freshman but was suspended three times by the Hogs during the 2008-09 campaign and dismissed from the program prior to sophomore season.

Baskerville Holmes, Memphis State (Kirk) - A starting forward who averaged 9.6 ppg and 5.9 rpg for the Tigers' 1985 Final Four team, he was arrested twice for domestic violence. Later, Holmes, an out-of-work truck driver, and his girlfriend were found shot to death March 18, 1997 in an apparent murder-suicide. He was 32.

Jerrell Houston, Mississippi State (Rick Stansbury)/Tennessee State (Cy Alexander) - Redshirt forward kicked off MSU's squad midway through 2005-06 campaign for violating unspecified rules. Memphis native broke a team rule at the beginning of the school year and was suspended for the exhibition season.

Ron Huery, Arkansas (Richardson) - Received a five-year prison sentence in mid-2008 for violating his probation and attempting to break into his ex-girlfriend's home. Arrested in mid-July 2005 on charges of rape, first-degree false imprisonment and third-degree domestic battery, plus a misdemeanor charge of obstructing governmental operations stemming from an incident involving an ex-girlfriend. In 1994, he was put on probation for eight years after a cocaine conviction in his hometown of Memphis, where he was also charged with drunken driving and driving on a revoked license. In 2002, Huery, who scored 1,550 points for the Razorbacks, sold his ring from the 1990 Final Four to help pay off fines and interest on 1991 traffic charges.

LaKeith Humphrey, Kansas State (Lon Kruger)/Central Missouri State (Jim Wooldridge) - Sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of first-degree murder in the late November 2006 death of his former girlfriend, who was shot through her bedroom window about 3:40 a.m. in his hometown of Memphis. Humphrey, a J.C. recruit, averaged 12.6 ppg and 3.6 apg for the Wildcats' NCAA playoff team in 1988-89.

Jeremy Hunt, Memphis (Calipari) - Pleaded guilty to reckless aggravated assault and driving under the influence stemming from an early-morning crash in fall of 2011 when his Land Rover struck a truck stopped in a curb lane. The truck driver, checking on another motorist, lost both legs in the accident. Hunt, who averaged 9.5 ppg for the Tigers from 2002-03 through 2004-05, was previously in trouble with the law in January 2005 when he was charged with domestic assault (accused of striking his girlfriend at least six times in the face and kicked her on both sides). Later that year, Hunt broke his hand after getting into a fight. In the spring of 2012, he was accused of choking his girlfriend during an argument around 5:30 a.m. Sentenced to 43 days in jail after another DUI conviction following arrest in mid-November 2016.

Joe Jackson, Memphis (Pastner) - C-USA player of the year in 2012-13 was arrested in summer of 2017 on felony drug and gun charges. Police officers found 100 ecstasy pills, two guns and $4,500 in $100 bills inside a Louis Vuitton backpack found on the backseat of a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro.

Otis Jackson, Memphis State (Wayne Yates and Kirk) - All-Metro Conference first-team selection in 1981-82 when leading league in assists accepted pretrial diversion before declaring publicly he did not acknowledge government following indictment as county court clerk on four counts of official misconduct for pressuring his employees to raise or contribute more than $50,000 to his 2012 re-election campaign.

Chris Jones, Tennessee signee (Bruce Pearl)/Louisville (Rick Pitino) - J.C. player of the year in 2013 was leading the ACC in steals and Cardinals in assists late in the 2014-15 campaign when dismissed from their squad following multiple suspensions. He allegedly threatened to "smack" a female student. Within a few days of his dismissal, he was charged with raping one woman and sodomizing another between 2 and 4 a.m. despite having a 9 p.m. curfew. "I'm not worried about anything that anybody has to say about me," Jones told the Louisville Courier-Journal. In late June 2017, Jones was shot in his right thigh after a fight reportedly led to gunfire on a basketball court next to a Memphis police department precinct.

Jelan Kendrick, Memphis (Pastner)/Ole Miss (Kennedy)/UNLV (Dave Rice) - Kicked off Memphis' squad before playing a game for the Tigers as a result of chronic bad behavior, including a couple of altercations with teammates. Consistent off-the-court problem at Ole Miss, where he departed after banishment from game action three times, including the duration of the 2012 SEC Tournament and NIT. Anger management woes fostered transient history playing for multiple high school and AAU teams.

Elmer Martin Jr., Arkansas (Richardson) - Memphis product was backup forward for the Razorbacks' 1994 NCAA titlist and starter at the end of the next season received a 15-year prison term in late July 2008 after pleading guilty to drug charges. A county deputy prosecutor said that delivery of a controlled substance charges involved cocaine, and that intent to deliver charges involved cocaine and Ecstasy. During two weeks earlier in the year, detectives made two controlled cocaine purchases from Martin.

Cornelius "Scooter" McFadgon, Memphis (Calipari)/Tennessee (Buzz Peterson) - The Volunteers' leading scorer in 2003-04 (17.6 ppg) was charged with drug-related offenses in Texas in June 2014 after police said they found a kilogram of cocaine and 193 pounds of marijuana in SUV he was driving. Indicted in mid-August 2017 as part of a "Cocaine Cowboy" operation and described as "a high-level distributor." Sentenced to 20 years behind bars.

Eric McGill, Southeast Missouri State (Rick Ray)/Southern Illinois (Barry Hinson) - Part-time starting guard as SEMO freshman in 2015-16 was dismissed for a violation of department policies and procedures. He started 12 of SEMO's first 14 games prior to benching for violating team rules.

Kevin Millen, Georgetown (John Thompson Jr.) - Backup for Hoyas in mid-1990s was sentenced to two years' probation and ordered to return to his home in Memphis and stay away from Washington after being arrested twice in fall of 1998 stemming from accusations of stalking and making threatening phone calls to Thompson. Charged with unlawful entry after being detained by campus security for allegedly trying to reach the office of the university president. In the wake of several dozen alleged menacing phone calls to the school's athletic office earlier in the year, he was arrested the previous week and ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation. Court records indicated Millen was upset over job opportunities arranged by Thompson that didn't pan out. Millen had an unsuccessful primary run for Congress in Tennessee in 2010.

Taurean Moy, LeMoyne-Owen TN (William Anderson) - Memphis product, who set a national H.S. single-game record with 24 three-pointers in December 2000 a day before he was arrested and charged with assault and possession of marijuana, was kicked out of Eastern Oklahoma State midway through the 2002-03 junior college campaign. The next spring, he was charged with first-degree sexual assault of a child in Nebraska, pleaded guilty to a lesser charge and was sentenced to three years in prison. Charged with domestic assault in the spring of 2009 before pleading guilty to failure to have a Tennessee Sex Offender Registry identification card - or a sex offender designation on his license - with him when he was stopped on traffic charges in November 2011. All but nine of his 110 field goals were three-pointers in 2009-10 when he averaged 12.5 ppg for LeMoyne-Owen.

Austin Nichols, Memphis (Pastner)/Virginia (Tony Bennett) - Dismissed from UVa roster after first game in 2016-17 following suspension for "violation of team rules." Nichols, AAC Freshman of the Year in 2012-13 before transferring, said dismissal from Cavaliers stemmed from "self-medicating."

Kendrick Perkins, Memphis commitment (Calipari) - Charged with disorderly conduct, public intoxication and misdemeanor assault for allegedly punching a woman in the face outside of a Houston nightclub in summer of 2013. In mid-August 2011, Perkins was forced out of similar establishment in his hometown of Beaumont, Tex., and arrested about 4:00 a.m. after attempting to fight the venue's manager. Perkins chose to bypass college and went straight to NBA out of high school.

Brandon Powell, Florida (Billy Donovan)/Marshall (Donnie Jones) - Arrested in mid-June 2007 with Gators kick return specialist as part of a reverse sting drug operation. Disciplined internally as freshman in 2006-07 after videotape showed Memphis product punched a Vanderbilt fan when Commodore fans stormed the court following an upset of top-ranked UF. Dismissed from Thundering Herd squad early in 2008-09 campaign.

George "Tic" Price, Virginia Commonwealth (Chuck Noe)/Virginia Tech (Charlie Moir) - Forced to resign as Memphis State's coach as the 1999-00 season unfolded following allegations of a sexual affair with a student. Records show he called female student 1,100 times.

Lafester Rhodes, Iowa State (Johnny Orr) - All-Big Eight Conference second-team selection in 1987-88 was charged with second-degree burglary for allegedly ransacking a woman's apartment in the spring of 1988. Although nothing was stolen, police said the burglary charge was filed because a crime likely was committed after a forced entry. Slashing of water bed arouse out of a domestic dispute with Memphis product's apparent ex-girlfriend. Orr told Rhodes' CBA coach that Lafester "couldn't read past a sixth-grade level."

Jimario Rivers, Memphis (Pastner and Tubby Smith) - Juco transfer who averaged 6.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg in 2016-17 and 2017-18 was wanted by authorities in early 2019 for aggravated assault after reportedly attacking his girlfriend at a grocery store.

Derrick Rose, Memphis (Calipari) - All-American as freshman for 2008 Final Four team was cleared with a couple of friends of all charges stemming from a civil rape lawsuit in a Los Angeles court. Rose, a Chicago product, and his co-defendants maintained the sex was consensual.

Matt Simpkins, Memphis (Calipari) - California product dismissed from the Tigers' squad midway through 2008-09 season. History of discipline and academic issues, bouncing around to six different high schools and prep schools across the country.

D.J. Stephens, Memphis (Pastner) - The Tigers' leading rebounder as a senior in 2012-13 was arrested in fall of 2016 in connection with a domestic violence incident involving his child's mother.

Myron Strong, San Francisco (Jessie Evans) and Texas-El Paso (Tony Barbee) - Kicked off UTEP's squad in late summer 2010 for violating school and athletic department policies according to Miners first-year coach Tim Floyd.

Marcus Tarrance, Middle Tennessee State (Kermit Davis Jr.) - J.C. recruit from Memphis was arrested on a charge of domestic violence in fall of 2013.

Marlon Towns, Arkansas (Richardson)/Murray State (Tevester Anderson) - Memphis product suspended for four games following arrest in fall of 1999 on charges of domestic assault and marijuana possession. He averaged 6 ppg for the Hogs as freshman in 1995-96 before averaging 6.9 ppg and 3.6 rpg for the Racers in 1998-99 and 1999-00. Arrested with UA teammate Kareem Reid in spring of 1996 for possession of marijuana.

David Vaughn III, Memphis State (Finch) - NBA washout, a first-round pick as an undergraduate in 1995, wound up destitute in Orlando in the aftermath of a domestic violence arrest, two jail stays and failed drug tests. Before turning his life around, things became so bleak that the son of Finch's sister nearly died from infection after multiple spider bites on his foot. Vaughn's father, who entered the pros early in 1974 after playing for Oral Roberts, also had a checkered past.

Lagerald Vick, SMU commitment (Larry Brown)/Kansas (Bill Self) - Although never charged with a crime, a KU probe resulted in recommendation of two years probation after determining Memphis product likely committed domestic violence in late 2015. At the time, coach Self-less said Vick was sidelined two games due to "illness." There was no description for ailment when Vick took a leave of absence from KU's squad midway through the 2018-19 campaign to return to his hometown "to help out with family issues."

Clyde Wade III, Memphis (Calipari) - Arrested in spring of 2011 after police found him in possession of marijuana and a loaded handgun during a traffic stop. Arrested in spring of 2012 on domestic assault charges after the mother of their twins told police he flung her by her hair and struck her with several household objects. Indicted in summer of 2017 on charges including money laundering and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin. Didn't play in 2003-04 while facing federal fraud and conspiracy charges (alleged identity and credit card theft scheme) of which he was eventually acquitted. He and his ex-girlfriend were behind bars on domestic assault charges in spring of 2022.

Shawne Williams, Memphis (Calipari) - Three times in Indiana, friends from Memphis ran afoul of the law while in Williams' company. All-Conference USA selection as a freshman in 2005-06 pleaded guilty to misdemeanor drug possession after being arrested in Memphis on felony drug charges for selling a codeine substance in mid-January 2010. Allowed to stay on diversion program despite testing positive for marijuana several times. Williams and former teammate Kareem Cooper were detained on separate charges in the summer of 2010 when detectives spotted Williams driving his Dodge Charger without a seat belt. Cooper, who transferred from Memphis to UTEP under coach Tony Barbee, was charged with possession of marijuana with the intent to manufacture/deliver/sell and felony possession of a firearm (handgun loaded with 20 rounds). Williams pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled substance following a mid-December 2012 arrest. Three years later, he was arrested and charged with DUI and multiple other infractions following hit-and-run in his 2014 Rolls Royce.

Tre'Von Willis, Memphis (Calipari)/UNLV (Kruger) - All-Mountain West Conference first-team selection pleaded no contest to domestic battery stemming from his arrest in summer of 2010 after allegedly choking a female acquaintance six years older than California product at an apartment complex about 3 a.m.

Qyntel Woods, Memphis commitment (Calipari) - J.C. recruit who went straight to the NBA after scoring 52 points in a community college game was promptly released by the Portland Trail Blazers midway through the 2004-05 campaign following pleading guilty to animal abuse after being under investigation for more serious charges related to dog fighting. In 2003, he was cited for marijuana possession and driving without insurance and a suspended license.

Dominic Woodson, Memphis (Pastner)/Tennessee (Donnie Tyndall) - Suspended or in the Tigers' doghouse much of freshman season in 2013-14 before lying to police regarding accusations stemming from a series of altercations with a UM football player. Also departed the Vols' program upon struggling to secure significant playing time.

Lorenzen Wright, Memphis (Finch) - His badly-decomposing body, indicating at least five shots from multiple shooters, was found in a secluded field near a golf course in southeast Memphis in late July 2010. A 911 operator took an emergency call from Wright's cell phone and believes he heard gunshots in the background. Wright's ex-wife, to whom he was in arrears on his $26,000-a-month alimony and child-support payments for his six children, claimed she overheard him on the telephone telling someone he was going to "flip something for $110,000." She told police he twice left her home about 2 a.m. carrying money and a box of drugs. Court documents show Wright, an All-American in 1995-96 as a sophomore, acknowledged to the FBI in 2008 that he sold a Mercedes sedan and Cadillac SUV to an individual known by authorities to be part of a drug kingpin gang. Despite earning an estimated $55 million over his 13-year NBA career, Wright's $1.3 million home in Atlanta was repossessed along with a $2.7 million home near Memphis he owned. In a book she wrote, his ex-wife claimed she was trapped in an abusive marriage. But Sherra Wright-Robinson was arrested in California in mid-December 2017 in connection to his death and charged with conspiracy, first-degree murder and criminal attempt first-degree murder along with deacon from her previous church. The case blossomed when an FBI dive team search a lake in Walnut, Miss., and found a gun authorities said was used in the murder. In 2014, she agreed to a confidential settlement in a dispute over how she spent $1 million in insurance earmarked to benefit their six children. She received a 30-year sentence in summer of 2019 after pleading guilty to facilitation of first-degree murder. Mastermind Sherra was denied parole this year and the man she "romantically" recruited to help her commit dirty deed - serving life in prison after his first-degree murder conviction in Wright's slaying - was sentenced this summer on additional lesser charges of conspiracy and attempted murder in the 12-year-old case.

Galen Young, Charlotte (Melvin Watkins and Bobby Lutz) - Young, a J.C. recruit who became UNCC's leading scorer and rebounder as C-USA first-team selection in 1998-99, was arrested for drunk driving in 2007 while on a suspended license. Upon Memphis product pleading guilty, he was fined $2,000 and suspended from driving for two years.

Perhaps if there were more midnight basketball programs, many of these inhumane incidents never would have occurred. It's an educational travesty that shameless schools allowed majority of suspect characters to set foot on a college campus. Former North Carolina A&T coach Jerry Eaves, starting point guard for Louisville's 1980 NCAA titlist, said too many athletes are academically unqualified to play at the collegiate level. "We must quit messing around," Evans told the Louisville Courier-Journal. "We have to stop (ineligible athletes) from playing. I mean 100% halt, period. It has to end now. No more time. No more talking. No more messing around. It has to end."

Extra! Extra! She was more lucid propagandist than Out House successor Ka-ringe "Binder Babe" Jean-Pierre, but media misfit Jenny Sock-it-to-me might generate even lower #MSDNC viewer ratings with her "circle back" programming than fellow former Plagiarist Bile-dumb/Cacklin' Kamala flak Symone Sanders. Rather than debating topic, you can read news about memorable major league baseball achievements and moments involving former college basketball players. Baseball is portrayed as a thinking man's game but only 4% of active MLB players earned college diplomas. Nonetheless, numerous ex-college hoopers had front-row seats to many of the most notable games, transactions and dates in MLB history.

Two former hoopers from Kentucky small colleges - "Sweet" Lou Johnson (Kentucky State) and David Justice (Thomas More) - made hitting headlines as National League outfielders on this date. Unless you habitually pore over the content at baseballlibrary.com, baseballreference.com and nationalpastime.com, following is a September 9 calendar focusing on such versatile MLB athletes:

SEPTEMBER 9

• Brooklyn Dodgers RHP Ray Benge (multi-year hoops letterman for Sam Houston State first half of 1920s) hurled a two-hit shutout against the Cincinnati Reds in opener of 1934 twinbill.

• Chicago Cubs 1B Larry Biittner (runner-up in basketball scoring and rebounding in 1966-67 for Buena Vista IA) stroked four hits in a 15-2 romp over the Philadelphia Phillies in 1979.

• San Francisco Giants INF Ernie Bowman (East Tennessee State hoops letterman in 1954-55 and 1955-56) drove in the go-ahead run with an eighth-inning triple in 9-6 win against the rival Los Angeles Dodgers in 1961.

• Pittsburgh Pirates RF Dan Costello (Mount St. Mary's hooper from 1910-11 through 1913-14) went 3-for-3 against the Chicago Cubs in a 1914 game.

• SS Alvin Dark (hoops letterman for Louisiana State and Southwestern Louisiana during World War II) accounted for all of the New York Giants' offense with two homers in 2-0 victory against the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1950 as teammate Sal Maglie hurled a MLB-tying fourth straight shutout.

• In the midst of a career-high 11-game hitting streak, Washington Senators 3B Frank Ellerbe (Wofford hooper after transferring from Sewanee TN) knocked in decisive run with a double in top of 12th inning of 6-5 triumph against St. Louis Browns in opener of 1920 doubleheader.

• Los Angeles Dodgers RF Joe Ferguson (hooper in 1967 NCAA playoffs for Pacific) launched a three-run homer, which was the game-winning hit in 5-3 win against the San Diego Padres in 1973.

• Brooklyn Robins 2B Jake Flowers (member of Washington College MD "Flying Pentagon" hoops squad in 1923) knocked in winning run in the ninth inning in a 3-2 victory against the New York Giants in 1928.

• Chicago Cubs 3B Howard Freigau (Ohio Wesleyan hooper) supplied four safeties, including three extra-base hits, in a 9-7 triumph against the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1925.

• LHP Steve Hamilton (Morehead State's leading scorer and rebounder in 1956-57 and 1957-58) awarded on waivers from the New York Yankees to the Chicago White Sox in 1970.

• St. Louis Cardinals rookie 2B Tommy Herr (hooper with Delaware's freshman team in 1974-75) supplied three hits for the third time in an 11-game span in 1980.

• In 1964, Los Angeles Dodgers 1B-OF Frank Howard (two-time All-Big Ten Conference first-team selection when leading Ohio State in scoring and rebounding in 1956-57 and 1957-58) hammered his eighth homer in 20 at-bats against San Francisco Giants P Bob Hendley, including four in a row the previous year (not in same game).

• RHP Bobby Humphreys (four-year hoops letterman graduated from Hampden-Sydney VA in 1958) won his second game in relief in four days to help the St. Louis Cardinals advance toward 1964 N.L. pennant.

• Toronto Blue Jays 3B Garth Iorg (juco hooper with College of the Redwoods CA in mid-1970s) delivered a decisive two-run homer in bottom of eighth inning of 5-3 win against the Detroit Tigers in 1985.

• Atlanta Braves RF David Justice (Thomas More KY assists leader in 1984-85 while averaging 9.3 ppg and 3.5 rpg) amassed two homers and five RBI against the San Francisco Giants in a 1991 contest.

• In 1965, Los Angeles Dodgers LHP Sandy Koufax (Cincinnati's freshman hoops squad in 1953-54) hurled his fourth no-hitter in as many years. It was a perfect game against the Chicago Cubs, who yielded a lone safety but incurred their second one-hit setback this season against L.A. LF "Sweet" Lou Johnson (Kentucky State teammate of legendary HBCU coach Davey Whitney averaged 5.7 ppg and 2 rpg in 1951-52) secured the game's only hit and scored the lone run.

• Minnesota Twins rookie RF Graig Nettles (shot 87.8% from free-throw line for San Diego State in 1963-64) homered in his fourth consecutive contest in 1968.

• INF Tim Nordbrook (Loyola LA hoops letterman in 1968-69) purchased from the Baltimore Orioles by the California Angels in 1976.

• California Angels 3B Bob Oliver (All-Valley Conference basketball choice for American River Community College CA in 1962) provided two hits for the eighth time in their first nine games of the month in 1973.

• Boston Red Sox rookie RHP Dick Radatz (center on Michigan State's freshman hoops squad in 1955-56) tossed nine innings of relief in registering a victory against the New York Yankees in 1962. Outing was his 12th relief appearance of season toiling at least three frames.

• RHP John Stuper (two-time all-conference junior college hooper in mid-1970s for Butler County PA) traded by the St. Louis Cardinals to the Cincinnati Reds in 1984.

• Detroit Tigers 2B Gary Sutherland (averaged 7.4 ppg with Southern California in 1963-64) provided four hits against the New York Yankees in a 1975 outing.

• Chicago White Sox RF Evar Swanson (played all five positions for Knox IL) went 4-for-4 against the Washington Senators in the opener of a 1934 doubleheader.

• Detroit Tigers rookie SS Coot Veal (averaged team-high 10.9 ppg as Auburn sophomore in 1951-52 before transferring to Mercer) scored three runs in the first of five two-hit outings in a seven-game span in 1958.

• Kansas City Athletics 1B-OF Preston Ward (second-leading scorer for Southwest Missouri State in 1946-47 and 1948-49) walloped three homers in a row against the Baltimore Orioles in 1958 game.

• Philadelphia Phillies RF Cy Williams (Notre Dame forward in 1909-10) whacked homers in his first two at-bats but they weren't enough to prevent a 12-6 reversal against the Brooklyn Robins in 1926.

• New York Giants 1B Babe Young (Fordham hoops letterman in 1935-36) blasted two homers in a 1941 contest against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Long before kneeling knuckleheads, the NCAA Tournament commenced in 1939, which was one year after the NIT triggered national postseason competition. An overlooked "versatile athlete" feat occurring in 1938 likely never to be duplicated took place at Arkansas, where the quarterback for the football squad (Jack Robbins) repeated as an All-SWC first-team basketball selection, leading the Razorbacks (19-3) to the league title. After the season, Robbins became an NFL first-round draft choice by the Chicago Cardinals (5th pick overall) and senior football/basketball teammates Jim Benton (11th pick by Cleveland Rams) and Ray Hamilton (41st pick by Rams) went on to become wide receivers for at least six years in the NFL. Yes, they created a kneeling-in-admiration shatterproof achievement - three do-everything members of a league championship basketball squad who promptly were among the top 41 selections in the same NFL draft.

Two years later, All-SWC first-team hoop selection Howard "Red" Hickey was instrumental in Arkansas reaching the 1941 Final Four before becoming an end for the Cleveland Rams' 1945 NFL titlist. Two-sport college teammate and fellow end O'Neal Adams scored five touchdowns for the New York Giants the first half of the 1940s. Another two-sport Hog who played for the Giants in the mid-1940s was Harry Wynne. An earlier versatile Razorback was Jim Lee Howell, who was an All-SWC first five hoop selection in 1935-36 before becoming a starting end for the Giants' 1938 NFL titlist and Pro Bowl participant the next year. Adams, Benton, Hamilton, Hickey and Howell combined for 77 touchdowns in an 11-year span from 1938 through 1948 when at least one of the ex-Razorback hoopers scored a TD in each of those seasons.

Hickey and ex-Hog All-SWC second-team hooper in 1929-30/NFL end Milan Creighton each coached NFL franchises. Many other ex-college hoopers also displayed their wares on the gridiron. Following is exhaustive research you can tackle regarding former college basketball players who made a name for themselves on September 8 in football at the professional level (especially ex-Florida State hoopers Brad Johnson and Tommy Polley in 2002 season openers):

SEPTEMBER 8

• New England Patriots LB Don Blackmon (collected 42 points and 32 rebounds in 12 games for Tulsa in 1977-78) registered three sacks in a 26-20 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1985 season opener.

• Cleveland Browns TE Jordan Cameron (redshirt freshman forward for BYU in 2006-07 before playing briefly for Southern California in 2008-09 under coach Tim Floyd) had nine pass receptions for 108 yards in a 23-10 setback against the Miami Dolphins in 2013 season opener.

• Oakland Raiders TE Rickey Dudley (averaged 13.3 ppg and 7.5 rpg as senior in 1994-95 when leading Ohio State in rebounding and finishing third in scoring) caught two third-quarter touchdown passes from Jeff George in a 28-27 setback against the Kansas City Chiefs in 1997. Chiefs WR Andre Rison (backup hoops guard for Michigan State in 1987-88) had eight pass receptions for 162 yards.

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson (Northern Colorado's leading scorer with 13.6 ppg in 2003-04 while also contributing 5.6 rpg and 3.1 apg) caught seven passes for 154 yards in an 18-17 setback against the New York Jets in 2013 season opener.

• Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw two second-half touchdown passes in a 26-20 setback against the New Orleans Saints in 2002 season opener. The next year, Johnson threw two second-half TD passes in a season-opening 17-0 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2003.

• Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) threw three first-half touchdown passes in a 27-24 setback against the Tennessee Titans in 2002 season opener.

• St. Louis Rams LB Tommy Polley (played in one basketball game for Florida State in 1996-97 under coach Pat Kennedy) had nine solo tackles in a 23-16 setback against the Denver Broncos in 2002 season opener.

• In 1985 season opener, Oakland Raiders LB Brad Van Pelt (averaged 4.5 ppg and 2.9 rpg while shooting 61.7% from floor as Michigan State sophomore in 1970-71) had two sacks in a 31-0 win against the New York Jets.

• In pro debut, New England Patriots WR Derwin Williams (New Mexico hooper in 1979-80) had NFL-career highs with five pass receptions and 94 receiving yards in a season-opening 26-20 win against the Green Bay Packers in 1985.

Long before kneeling knuckleheads, the NCAA Tournament commenced in 1939, which was one year after the NIT triggered national postseason competition. An overlooked "versatile athlete" feat occurring in 1938 likely never to be duplicated took place at Arkansas, where the quarterback for the football squad (Jack Robbins) repeated as an All-SWC first-team basketball selection, leading the Razorbacks (19-3) to the league title. After the season, Robbins became an NFL first-round draft choice by the Chicago Cardinals (5th pick overall) and senior football/basketball teammates Jim Benton (11th pick by Cleveland Rams) and Ray Hamilton (41st pick by Rams) went on to become wide receivers for at least six years in the NFL. Yes, they created a kneeling-in-admiration shatterproof achievement - three do-everything members of a league championship basketball squad who promptly were among the top 41 selections in the same NFL draft.

Two years later, All-SWC first-team hoop selection Howard "Red" Hickey was instrumental in Arkansas reaching the 1941 Final Four before becoming an end for the Cleveland Rams' 1945 NFL titlist. Two-sport college teammate and fellow end O'Neal Adams scored five touchdowns for the New York Giants the first half of the 1940s. Another two-sport Hog who played for the Giants in the mid-1940s was Harry Wynne. An earlier versatile Razorback was Jim Lee Howell, who was an All-SWC first five hoop selection in 1935-36 before becoming a starting end for the Giants' 1938 NFL titlist and Pro Bowl participant the next year. Adams, Benton, Hamilton, Hickey and Howell combined for 77 touchdowns in an 11-year span from 1938 through 1948 when at least one of the ex-Razorback hoopers scored a TD in each of those seasons.

Hickey and ex-Hog All-SWC second-team hooper in 1929-30/NFL end Milan Creighton each coached NFL franchises. Many other ex-college hoopers also displayed their wares on the gridiron. Following is exhaustive research you can tackle regarding former college basketball players who made a name for themselves on September 7 in football at the professional level (especially defensive performances by Don Blackmon and Ronnie Lott in 1986 season openers):

SEPTEMBER 7

• New England Patriots LB Don Blackmon (collected 42 points and 32 rebounds in 12 games for Tulsa in 1977-78) registered three sacks in a 33-3 win against the Indianapolis Colts in 1986 season opener.

• Tennessee Titans rookie WR Tyrone Calico (played one basketball game for Middle Tennessee State in 1998-99) scored team's first touchdown in 2003 on an 11-yard pass reception from QB Steve McNair in 25-20 season-opening win against the Oakland Raiders.

• Miami Dolphins rookie WR Chris Chambers (played hoops briefly for Wisconsin under coach Dick Bennett in 1997-98) caught two second-quarter touchdown passes (57 and 21 yards) in a 21-20 setback against the Houston Texans in 2003 season opener.

• Kansas City Chiefs QB Len Dawson (Purdue hooper in 1956-57) threw four touchdown passes - including 81-yarder to Frank Jackson - in a 59-7 win against the Denver Broncos in 1963.

• TE Demetrius Harris (led Milwaukee in FG% and rebounding as senior in 2012-13) opened the Kansas City Chiefs' scoring with a touchdown reception from Alex Smith in 42-27 win against the defending champion New England Patriots in 2017 season opener.

• SS Rodney Harrison (averaged 7.4 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 3 apg and 1.6 spg for Western Illinois in 1992-93) opened the San Diego Chargers' scoring by recovering a fumble in end zone for touchdown in 20-6 win against the New Orleans Saints in 1997.

• WR DeAndre Hopkins (played in seven hoop games for Clemson in 2010-11) opened the Houston Texans' scoring with a 76-yard touchdown catch in 17-6 win against the Washington Redskins in 2014 season opener.

• Minnesota Vikings QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw two fourth-quarter touchdown passes in a 27-24 win against the Chicago Bears in 1997.

• San Francisco 49ers DB Ronnie Lott (Southern California hooper as junior in 1979-80) had two interceptions in a 31-7 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1986 season opener.

• Philadelphia Eagles QB Donovan McNabb (averaged 2.3 points in 18 games for Syracuse in 1995-96 and 1996-97) passed for 361 yards - including three first-half touchdowns - in a 38-3 win against the St. Louis Rams in 2008 season opener.

• Oakland Raiders WR Art Powell (averaged 10.5 ppg and 8.2 rpg for San Jose State in 1956-57) caught seven passes for 181 yards in a 24-13 win against the Houston Oilers in 1963 AFL season opener.

• Denver Broncos TE Gene Prebola (Boston University hooper in 1957-58) had a career-high seven pass receptions in 30-21 win against the San Diego Chargers in 1962 AFL season opener.

• Buffalo Bills TE Robert Royal (collected 10 points and six rebounds in five Louisiana State basketball games in 2000-01) registered a career-high six pass receptions in 2008 season opener against the Seattle Seahawks.

• Denver Broncos TE Julius Thomas (averaged 6.8 ppg and 4.3 rpg while shooting 66.3% from floor with Portland State from 2006-07 through 2009-10) caught three second-quarter touchdown passes from Peyton Manning in a 31-24 win against the Indianapolis Colts in 2014 season opener.

Long before kneeling knuckleheads, the NCAA Tournament commenced in 1939, which was one year after the NIT triggered national postseason competition. An overlooked "versatile athlete" feat occurring in 1938 likely never to be duplicated took place at Arkansas, where the quarterback for the football squad (Jack Robbins) repeated as an All-SWC first-team basketball selection, leading the Razorbacks (19-3) to the league title. After the season, Robbins became an NFL first-round draft choice by the Chicago Cardinals (5th pick overall) and senior football/basketball teammates Jim Benton (11th pick by Cleveland Rams) and Ray Hamilton (41st pick by Rams) went on to become wide receivers for at least six years in the NFL. Yes, they created a kneeling-in-admiration shatterproof achievement - three do-everything members of a league championship basketball squad who promptly were among the top 41 selections in the same NFL draft.

Two years later, All-SWC first-team hoop selection Howard "Red" Hickey was instrumental in Arkansas reaching the 1941 Final Four before becoming an end for the Cleveland Rams' 1945 NFL titlist. Two-sport college teammate and fellow end O'Neal Adams scored five touchdowns for the New York Giants the first half of the 1940s. Another two-sport Hog who played for the Giants in the mid-1940s was Harry Wynne. An earlier versatile Razorback was Jim Lee Howell, who was an All-SWC first five hoop selection in 1935-36 before becoming a starting end for the Giants' 1938 NFL titlist and Pro Bowl participant the next year. Adams, Benton, Hamilton, Hickey and Howell combined for 77 touchdowns in an 11-year span from 1938 through 1948 when at least one of the ex-Razorback hoopers scored a TD in each of those seasons.

Hickey and ex-Hog All-SWC second-team hooper in 1929-30/NFL end Milan Creighton each coached NFL franchises. Many other ex-college hoopers also displayed their wares on the gridiron. Following is exhaustive research you can tackle regarding former college basketball player Brad Johnson making a name for himself on September 6 in football at the professional level:

SEPTEMBER 6

• Dallas Cowboys TE Billy Joe Dupree (scored four points in total of four basketball games for Michigan State in 1971-72) opened game's scoring with a 33-yard touchdown reception in 26-10 win against the Washington Redskins in 1981 season opener.

• Minnesota Vikings QB Brad Johnson (part-time starting forward for Florida State as freshman in 1987-88 when averaging 5.9 ppg and shooting 89.1% from free-throw line) threw four touchdown passes in a 31-7 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1998 season opener.

America's Team, the Dallas Cowboys, warrants recognition as the last NFL franchise to give versatile college basketball All-Americans (Utah State's Cornell Green and Tennessee's Ron Widby in mid-1970s) an opportunity to labor as authentic NFL players.

Versatile athletes are becoming an endangered species although Rico Gathers, Baylor's all-time leading rebounder (fourth in nation as junior in 2014-15), was retained by the Cowboys as fourth tight end several years ago to avoid losing him to waivers. Promptly after Labor Day is when majority of college basketball annuals hit the newsstands about same time NFL regular season kicks off into high gear. In an era of specialization, the odds are staggering against any of the projected college hoop All-Americans in the magazines enjoying a genuine NFL career such as the following alphabetical list of seven well-rounded athletes including two from Utah State:

Hoops All-American	College	Hoops Position (A-A Year)	Summary of NFL Career
Otto Graham	Northwestern	F (1943 and 1944)	Five-time All-Pro QB played 10 seasons (1946 through 1955) with the Cleveland Browns and led team to championship game each year (All-America Football Conference from 1946 through 1949 and NFL from 1950 through 1955). Fourth pick overall in 1944 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions.
Cornell Green	Utah State	F (1962)	Five-time Pro Bowler intercepted 34 passes in 13 years as a DB with the Dallas Cowboys (1962 through 1974).
Vern Huffman	Indiana	G (1936)	QB-DB passed for 484 yards and rushed for 368 yards with the Detroit Lions in 1937 and 1938. Third-round selection in 1937 NFL draft (27th pick overall).
Ron Kramer	Michigan	C (1957)	WR for 10 seasons (1957 and 1959 through 1967) with the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions. First-round draft choice caught 229 passes for 3,272 yards and 16 TDs. Pro Bowl selection in 1963.
Banks McFadden	Clemson	C (1939)	Selected by the Brooklyn Dodgers in the first round (third pick overall) of the 1940 NFL draft. Finished fourth in rushing in the NFL in his only pro season, averaging 6.3 yards per carry.
Kent "Rip" Ryan	Utah State	F-C (1936)	Halfback with the Detroit Lions for three seasons from 1938 through 1940.
Ron Widby	Tennessee	F (1967)	Punter appeared in the Pro Bowl following the 1971 campaign. Averaged 42 yards per punt in six seasons (1968 through 1973) with the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers. First selection in fourth round of 1967 NFL draft by the New Orleans Saints (81st pick overall).

NOTE: Hoops All-American Glen Max Morris (Northwestern) was selected as a B by the Chicago Bears in 26th round of 1947 NFL draft. . . . All-American Wallace "Wah Wah" Jones (Kentucky) was selected as an E by the Bears in 7th round of 1949 NFL draft. . . . All-American K.C. Jones (San Francisco) was selected as an E by the Los Angeles Rams in 30th round of 1955 NFL draft. . . . All-American John Havlicek (Ohio State) was selected as a WR by the Cleveland Browns in 7th round of 1962 NFL draft. . . . All-American Pat Riley (Kentucky) was selected as a FL by the Cowboys in 11th round of 1967 NFL draft. . . . All-American Jimmy Walker (Providence) was selected as a WR by the New Orleans Saints as final pick of the 17th and final round of 1967 NFL draft. . . . All-American Ron "Fritz" Williams (West Virginia) was selected as a DB by the Cowboys in 18th round of 1968 NFL draft. . . . All-American Quinn Buckner (Indiana) was selected as a DB by the Washington Redskins in 14th round of 1976 NFL draft. . . . All-American Al Green (Louisiana State) was selected as a DB by the San Diego Chargers in 10th round of 1979 NFL draft.

Extra! Extra! Will Russia ban Bernie Sanders and his spouse from country for their second honeymoon? Instead of debating theorem that if you go Bozo Bernie (a/k/a Dr. Emmett Brown) climate-change woke you're gonna get burned completely broke, you can read news about memorable major league baseball achievements and moments involving former college basketball players. Baseball is portrayed as a thinking man's game but only 4% of active MLB players earned college diplomas. Nonetheless, numerous ex-college hoopers had front-row seats to many of the most notable games, transactions and dates in MLB history.

Former NYU hoopers Ralph Branca, Hank Greenberg and John Simmons supplied significant MLB performances on this date. Ditto fellow ex-Big Apple hooper Babe Young (Fordham). Unless you habitually pore over the content at baseballlibrary.com, baseballreference.com and nationalpastime.com, following is a September 5 calendar focusing on such versatile MLB athletes:

SEPTEMBER 5

• RHP Ralph Branca (sixth-leading basketball scorer for NYU in 1943-44) earned the victory as Brooklyn Dodgers teammate Gil Hodges (hooper for St. Joseph's IN in 1943 and Oakland City IN in 1947 and 1948) hammered a grand slam in 5-2 verdict over the Philadelphia Phillies in 1951.

• Minnesota Twins rookie 3B John Castino (medical redshirt for Rollins FL in 1973-74 under coach Ed Jucker) went 4-for-4 in an 8-3 win against the Kansas City Royals in 1979.

• Los Angeles Dodgers RHP Roger Craig (forward with North Carolina State's 1949-50 freshman team) won his sixth straight decision in 1960.

• New York Giants SS Alvin Dark (hoops letterman for Louisiana State and Southwestern Louisiana in mid-1940s) provided three extra-base hits in a 1953 game against the Brooklyn Dodgers.

• Cleveland Indians CF Larry Doby (reserve guard for Virginia Union's 1943 CIAA hoops titlist) homered in both ends of a 1955 twinbill split against the Kansas City Athletics.

• Philadelphia Athletics RHP George Earnshaw (Swarthmore PA hooper in 1922) tossed a one-hitter against the Boston Red Sox in 1931.

• Pittsburgh Pirates rookie 3B Gene Freese (West Liberty WV hoops captain of 1952 NAIA Tournament team) homered twice against the New York Giants in opener of a 1955 doubleheader.

• Boston Red Sox 1B Dick Gernert (Temple hoops letterman in 1948-49 when averaging 2.7 ppg) collected four hits and three runs against the Baltimore Orioles in a 1958 game.

• Detroit Tigers 1B Hank Greenberg (enrolled at NYU on hoops scholarship in 1929 but attended college only one semester) launched a homer for the third consecutive contest in 1939.

• Baltimore Orioles 2B Davey Johnson (averaged 1.7 ppg for Texas A&M in 1961-62) knocked in five runs in an 8-4 win against the Detroit Tigers in 1969.

• Chicago White Sox rookie RF Lyle Mouton (starter in LSU's backcourt with All-American Chris Jackson for 1989 NCAA playoff team) went 6-for-7 with three doubles in first two contests of a four-game series against the Texas Rangers in 1995.

• Boston Red Sox 3B Buddy Myer (Mississippi State hoops letterman in 1923-24) doubled before scoring the winning run in the 18th inning of a 12-11 decision over the New York Yankees in the opener of 1927 doubleheader.

• Washington Senators OF John Simmons (starting guard averaged 8.7 ppg for NYU's NCAA Tournament team in 1943) secured a pinch-hit single in both ends of 1949 twinbill against the Boston Red Sox.

• Atlanta Braves RHP Cecil Upshaw (Centenary's leading scorer as junior in 1962-63) notched four saves and a victory in five-game span of relief appearances in the midst of holding opponents scoreless in last 13 outings of 1972 campaign.

• Pittsburgh Pirates CF Bill Virdon (Drury MO hooper in 1949) accounted for the game's only run when he blasted a 10th-inning homer against the Milwaukee Braves in 1958.

• Philadelphia Phillies CF Cy Williams (Notre Dame forward in 1909-10) collected two homers and five RBI against the Brooklyn Dodgers in the opener of a 1922 doubleheader.

• New York Yankees LF Dave Winfield (starting forward for Minnesota's first NCAA playoff team in 1972) delivered two homers and double in a 1982 contest against the Kansas City Royals.

• New York Giants CF Babe Young (Fordham hoops letterman in 1935-36) knocked in five runs in a 1942 outing against the Brooklyn Dodgers.