Whoever is compiling the best NBA columnist quotes this season, here’s a classic from Sam Smith of the Chicago Tribune while writing about the differences between Knicks center Eddy Curry and beleaguered coach Larry Brown: “So it was no surprise to many that, before Brown left ill last week, Curry was regularly being benched for Jackie Butler, whoever that is.” (Chicago Tribune)

Throwing shit at Barry Bonds while he’s standing alone in the outfield, wondering where it all went wrong, will get you arrested. (Sports Illustrated)

In case you didn’t get enough of our two-part interview with the mastermind behind the 1986 World Series re-creation, you can find a lot more here. (Yahoo.com)

We’ll weigh in on all the college defections later, but for now, whet your appetite withthis piece on poaching players. (Sportsline.com)

If you’re still not believing the Mets are spitting hot fire, witness their 4-3 victory last night over the slumping Atlanta Braves. Natch, Mets fans are beyond blissful. (MLB.com; Metsblog)