The MLB playoffs and other assorted projects derailed my plans to do a lot of blogging this past week. I'm optimistic though, that we'll get back on track next week. And in the meantime, here are some links to take you into the weekend.
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*As I wrote earlier on Twitter, there are many good pieces today on the miraculous story of Seton Hall forward Herb Pope. My first recommendation is this one, by Brendan Prunty of the Star-Ledger.

* Rough night Thursday for the Thompson brothers. Ryan didn't play in the Jazz's preseason opener, and Jason might have wished he hadn't. The third-year power forward scored just three points on 1-for-7 shooting as the Kings fell to the Clippers.

* UConn is denying the NCAA's allegations that Jim Calhoun failed to promote an atmosphere of compliance. But the Huskies issued self-imposed sanctions that will reduce scholarships from 13 to 12 and cut down on recruiting time.

* Speaking of the Huskies, their football team is in action tonight in Piscataway. Go here for live coverage.