Golf: Patrick Reed won The Masters on Sunday by one shot over Ricky Fowler. Even though the final leaderboard was very close, it seemed like Reed had control over the entire event. He was clearly the one who deserved to win the tournament even though Rickie Fowler and Jordan Speith definitely give him a run for his money.
In the end, it was a great week for the future of American golf. For the first time since 2001, the top three players on The Masters leaderboard were Americans. Back then it was Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and David Duval. Now that Patrick Reed has won his first Major, I think he definitely has the ability to win some more.
Phil Mickelson had a somewhat disappointing week. Because he was coming off a win in Mexico and the fact that he loves The Masters so much, I expected him to play better than he did. He is running out of time in terms of adding to his major tournament victory total. I did not expect much from Tiger Woods this week. He finished in a tie for 32nd place. I actually don't expect much from him in any of the Majors for this year. Until he gets used to huge amounts of pressure, the media and overzealous fans again, I can only count on him to perform better next year. The good news for the PGA, and all tournaments where Tiger plays, is the excitement he brings back to golf.
Basketball: The NBA playoffs start on Saturday. The 76ers will play the Miami Heat in the first round. They should be able to beat them and advance, but I won't be projecting anything farther than that. The Sixers have actually set a new NBA record by winning the last 16 games to end their regular season. Starting next season, I expect them to contend for the Eastern Conference Championship, especially if LeBron James decides to join a Western Conference team in the off-season.
Ice Hockey: The NHL playoffs have begun. The Flyers are playing the Pittsburgh Penguins, who are the two-time defending Stanley Cup Champions. With that being said, I don't expect the Flyers to last long. Losing 7-0 last night sure didn't help boost my or anyone else's confidence.
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A 2002 Cape grad and 2007 UD grad, Lewes resident Sumner Spence is one of the Cape area's biggest sports fans. Although he’s used a wheelchair his entire life, he has lived vicariously through his sports-playing father, brother, and friends, who gave him his love of sports. He hopes to provide new and interesting perspectives on the sports stories and issues of the day. Email Sumner at sumspence@gmail.com.
