Steps to Buying The Perfect Tennis Racquet For You

Tennis is a great sport, but selecting the right racquet can seem like a headache. There are so many things to consider while buying a tennis racquet, that a book can be written on the steps to buy the perfect product, but instead of doing that, we’ve put together some of the most vital steps while avoiding the unnecessary ones for your convenience. Here are some of the main points.

All the tennis racquets currently available in the market can easily be divided into four different types, depending on the amount of power they take to operate smoothly, and of course the player’s experience. Here is a brief outlook on each category.

Power Oriented Racquets

As the name suggests, these racquets are made for the players who like to have more power from the racquet than their swing of the arm. The racquet is long, lightweight, less flexible, and the head is much wider than most of the conventional racquets for added convenience while making the shot. Over-sized heads allow the players to cover more area while swinging. You’ll need much less power and swing to play with these racquets in the playground. A wide variety of these racquets (varying in head sizes) is available in the market.

Middle or Tweener Racquets

Tweener sounds like a strange word, but it certainly has a reason behind its creation. Tweener racquets are actually the racquets which pack the features of both the power-oriented racquets, and the modern player racquets. These include some of the best-selling racquets in the market right now, they are very popular among regular tennis players. The Tweener racquet is lightweight and strong like a power racquet, and is easily controllable like a player’s racquet, this collaboration of some of the most desirable features of racquets is what makes this category so unique, effective and best-selling.

You have some options on your plate while you go tweener racquet shopping, you can choose from light headed and headed racquets (as it fits you). Another reason why most of the intermediate to advanced players use these racquets is that they have medium to high power, and they can be spun easily with a minimal force input due to their special design.

Players’ Racquets

Depending on design and features, players’ racquets can be divided into two main types.

Modern Racquets

Some professional tennis players like to play the ball with a topspin in the game, and the modern players’ racquet is custom made to support that type of play. The lightweight and fast swing speed of these racquets enable the player to play the aggressively with a maximum spin. These racquets have a medium energy range and they have heads of around 100 inches or less.

Traditional Racquets

These are the typical tennis racquets that most of the professional players in international and state-level sports play with. This racquet sets a standard in the industry. The head size is conventional (about 85 inches or a bit more), body is somewhat on the heavier side, is flexible and the racquet is low powered. These features allow the player to easily maneuver and play according to his own style. The standard length allow more control and ease of use for the professional players.

Some Important Factors

if reading about the above-mentioned categories of racquets isn’t enough, or you are unaware for certain factors, then here is some additional information for you. These are some factors that affect the performance of your tennis racquet.

Head of The Racquet

Head size is one of the most important things to consider while buying a tennis racquet. Sites like racquet sports have a wide collection of tennis racquets from ranging from 85 to 135 square inches. The science behind size of the racquet head is that a smaller head would give you more control, but will require more precision, while a bigger head would give you more power, giving you a larger area to hit the tennis ball.

Average sized racquets are the most sold ones, because players the perfect combination of power and control they have, these are mostly around 100 square inches. Beginners choose larger heads, while professional players like playing with small to medium headed racquets.

Length of The Racquet

Racquets have a legal length limit, but that applies only to the ones being used in competitions by the professional players. A standard racket would probably be around 27 inches long, but you can also buy racquets with 2 inches more or less than 27 inches. A longer racket provides more reachability for shots near the ground, but in turn requires more swing power to operate properly, while shorter racquets are easily maneuverable by the player, standard 27 length racquet is balanced between power and maneuverability. A larger racquet can also be made out of lighter material to keep the needed power input low.

Balance And Weight of The Racquet

These two factors impact the swing of your racquet, here is some info on them.

Balance

You can buy a racquet with a heavy head, with a lighter head or an evenly balanced racquet as per you liking. Racquets with a heavy head are more power oriented, ones with a light head have most of their mass located around the handle, and the racquets with evenly distributed mass are more stable, and allow more control than the rest.

Weight

As described earlier on in this article, heavy racquets are power oriented, and allow less maneuverability, while lightweight racquets are their exact opposite.

Testolone Rad140 Review

If ever bodybuilders discovered a top-of-tops SARM, then RAD140 is the one. SARMs are chemical compounds that act in particular ways once inside a user’s body. They trigger muscle and bone development while leaving other biological processes intact. If you were to sum-up the behavior of these compounds, you would coin a suitable phrase, more results, few side effects.

The RAD140 review you are just about to read unpacks vital information about this drug that also goes by the name Testolone. Perhaps you had tried using steroids before and had a nasty experience. Luckily, SARMs work differently; no wonder athletes and bodybuilders have developed such a keen interest.

Effects of using Testolone RAD140

Whether you opt to use RAD140 as a standalone SARM or stack with others, you will have outstanding results. Some of the effects include:

∙        Strength: RAD140 increases your strength, and you can tell judging by how lifting weights becomes easier. By the time your cycle gets to the second week, you begin to feel this effect.

∙        Great feeling: Thanks to Testolone, you no longer feel lethargic, and begin to enjoy each workout. Generally, there are no mood-swings, plus you feel great.

∙        Lean muscles: Muscle gains from experimenting with RAD140 are hard with high pumps.

∙        Brain protection: Testolone not only promotes brain cells development but also helps prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

∙        Fat loss: Despite not being a SARM for losing fat, once you are on RAD140, you begin to notice fat shrinkage mostly in the gut region. Another option to lose fat is to buy system flush pills here.

Testolone Dosage

Following the lack of research on the human effect of RAD140, there is no standard RAD140 dosage. Experienced bodybuilders have, however, recommended 10-30mg per day. In the case of women, yours scales down to 5-10mg per day.

A typical cycle should last for eight to twelve weeks. As a veteran, you can tailor the intake depending on your body responses. To be on the safe side, find someone, probably a medic, who understands cell physiology. They can assist you with dosage and the timing of cycles.

We need to add here that RAD140 is a potent drug; you should not use a high dosage at the onset. On a milligram to milligram basis, Testolone is perhaps stronger than other SARMs. Nonetheless, its half-life is around 15-20 hours. You can take it once a day and be safe from a potential overdose.

Owing to its potency, users recommend that you do not go beyond 20mg/day. You can choose to have your full dose once before bedtime or divide it into two. In case you would like to have a longer cycle, you should reduce the dose. You can read more about Testolone RAD-140’s dosage if you click here.

What to expect

Unlike steroids, Testolone will not cause you nightmarish side effects. RAD140 only targets bones and muscle. As is typical of SARMs, it avoids organs such as the brain, prostate, and liver. Also, non-conversion to estrogen means that there is no risk of gynecomastia.

Rad140 results may begin to manifest from two to three weeks down the line. You will notice changes in composure. Increase in strength that causes you to pack more muscle is another expectation. In about a month, muscle gains become visible. There is no stopping now as muscle mass increases from 10-15lbs.

Besides, you begin to notice that your focus improves with fantastic mental clarity. In the early stages, you might become a little aggressive and irritable. If this happens, you only need to control it by managing your doses.

Testolone makes your muscles look more defined than before. You will notice that they not only look bigger but also harden. By the eighth week, the muscles feel dry meaning they longer retain water. Fat loss is evident from your outward body appearance, especially in the traps and torso.

One RAD140 review noted that the drug had effects similar to those brought about by steroids. Users experience noticeable muscle mass increase, coupled with a build-up of strength. At the same time, you lose fat as the body builds muscle.

Side effects

If you have used other Testosterone-related enhancement drugs, the results you felt are similar to those from RAD140. However, in the latter case, these will be mild. Possible side effects include:

∙        Irritability

∙        Headaches

∙        Muscle cramps

∙        Tenderness of the breasts, in male bodybuilders

∙        Women may have abnormal hair growth

∙        Hair loss in men

∙        Vomiting and nausea

Going by the list above, you will notice that these are all testosterone-related. You might need a PCT (Post-Cycle Therapy) to wear off the effects of RAD140, but this is at the tail end of your cycle. However, this RAD140 review acknowledges that there are no clear-cut clinical evaluations on the effects.

On the other hand, clinical studies suggest that SARMs can suppress your body’s ability to produce testosterone. RAD140 has the potential to shut down the production of testosterone and allow a build-up of estrogen. If the aforesaid happens, you could feel tired, depressed, and have a low sex drive. However, the degree of suppression varies depending on the user’s body and dosage patterns.

Testosterone can potentially harm the prostate gland. The hormone causes prostate enlargement increasing the risk of cancer. Nevertheless, RAD140 does not affect prostate size, but research is still underway.

RAD140 vs. Ostarine

i.                   RAD140

Comparing RAD140 vs. Ostarine gives us useful insights on the potency of these two drugs. RAD140 is stronger than Ostarine. You start experiencing gains from the third or fourth week. However, on a strength-to-strength basis, Ostarine cannot come any close to RAD140. As a beginner, you should not use RAD140. You better choose the milder Ostarine.

ii.                 Ostarine

On its part, Ostarine has extensive experimentation, plus scientists have conducted numerous trials on humans. MK-2866 (Ostarine). Bodybuilders love experimenting with MK-2866 for its mildness. Besides, it has no side effects. On the other hand, if you are cutting but would not like to lose muscle, Ostarine comes in handy.

Summary comparison table

RAD140 (Testolone)OSTARINE (MK-2866)
Highly potent SARMMild SARM
Is a muscle builderPreferred for cutting
Relatively young SARMMost researched SARM

FIFA55 – Best Online Gambling Website

FIFA55 has solved the issue to gamble online. There is always a great talk on this topic. Everyone is interested in making money online. Everyone is looking for the best way to earn online. Online gambling is making its mark these days. There are many websites where you can easily earn a lot. There is a lot of scam and cheating as well. But, FIFA55 provides you guarantee, satisfaction, privacy and complete security. It is the trending platform to gamble in the online casinos. So, if you are looking for the top website for betting, then try to use this platform. 

Exciting Features of FIFA55

  • One of the most important features of any online live website is to help the users with their question. You will be happy to know that the support of this website is amazing. It provides users with all the comfort to work on this amazing platform. 
  • The deposit and withdrawal are always the top queries when you are going to work the only platform. When this is a 100% trusted website, and it provides financial stability. If you get an online lottery or casino, you can make a withdrawal in 24 hours. 
  • The staff is experienced and professional. When you work online, you need to make sure that you are in safe hands. The head office of the website is in Cambodia. Therefore, you need to be calm and happy that you are in the right place for the right job. 
  • In some site, you must make multiple accounts to enjoy all the exciting offers of the website. But this is not in this case. Only one account will give you easy access to enjoy all the platform such as online casino, gambling in games like football and golf, online lottery and online baccarat. 
  • Many of the sites have their transaction fees. When you win a lottery or anything and going to make a withdrawal, they deduct some fee. You will be happy to know that there is no withdrawal fee on this website. You can easily make a withdrawal. You will receive the full payment. 
  • FIFA55 is the best website to earn online. This website is not in Asia. The people from the area can now make easy gambling by using this platform. It has changed lives, and surely, it’ll be a life-changing experience to use this website.
  • Most of the website doesn’t provide access to a mobile phone. But this platform offers complete access from your IOS or android. It has made gambling easier and comfortable. 

Important Tips and Precautions 

  • You will find many websites, and they attract more and more people by providing their offers. But one can beat FIFA55 incompatibility and reliability. However, the following are the rules; you need to keep in mind while choosing an online platform for betting. 
  • As there are many websites that provide access to online gambling, you need to work on three websites. After you work there, you need to notice are the features of the site. Then join FIFA55, and you will experience the difference. This website is completely different from others, and you will experience this too. 
  • You need to check the stability of the website. This is one of the top pillars of online gambling. FIFA55 is working for many years. You can ask for this website on different forums. You’ll see how people love this website. 
  • Always choose a website that provides easy options to withdraw money. Most of the website doesn’t provide with such ease. This is the reason that you need to visit the specific bank for the transaction. 

I have made things clear, and I think FIFA55 is the best option for you. You can earn a great profit through this website. This website is your true companion because it understands your needs and demands. You can get almost everything from this website so, make an account and change your lifestyle. Cheers!!

Pitching Staff

Who’s Your Daddy? David Price to the Paternity List

Heading to Yankee Stadium starting Friday, what better time to remember the “Who’s Your Daddy?” chants.

The year, 2004. Pedro Martinez was finally facing adversity, after dominating to this point in his career. The Yankees lit him up, and he proceeded to tell the world, the Yankees, were his daddy.

The chants rained down on him for the rest of the year, and at times throughout the remainder of his career. We all know Pedro got the last laugh in 2004, so that’s why this can be funny now.

David Price Update

With the Sox back in the Bronx this weekend, it seems like perfect timing that David Price, became a “daddy”.

Price was placed on the paternity list Friday, putting his Sunday night start in question. He and his wife Tiffany welcome a new baby to the world Friday. Manager Alex Cora seems to be confident, however, that Price will be able to make his scheduled start.

https://twitter.com/lindseyadler/status/1157396721418346496?s=20

Price has debatably been the best starter this season. I would say he has definitely been the most consistent for sure. To lose Price in what will likely be a big game would hurt Boston.

He has a 3.86 ERA, which doesn’t look sexy, but is slightly inflated from his last couple of rough outings. His 3.40 FIP puts him in the upper echelon of American League starters, and we definitely don’t want to see David miss a big start.

Price's

At the end of the day, family first. I hope he and his family are doing well and everything went smoothly. From a baseball standpoint, it hurts if he’s out Sunday against New York. However, I don’t think anyone will be mad, as nobody can blame him for being with his wife and his newborn.

Hopefully Dad strength is a real thing, and David comes back from this stronger than ever!

Red Sox, Yankees

RED SOX – YANKEES SERIES PREVIEW

After all of the optimism of last week, the Red Sox enter this series on a low. Having taken five of their previous six games, they are now on a four-game losing streak. Dropping two games to the rays was bad. Losing all three was a disaster. There was a real chance the Red Sox could have come into this series seven-ish games behind the Yankees, with the chance to get within five. Instead, they are 10.5 behind, and even if everything goes perfect they will still be over seven games behind.

7/25 Eduardo Rodriguez vs. James Paxton (L) 7:05 pm NESN

7/26 Chris Sale vs. Domingo German (R) 1:05 pm NESN

7/27 Brian Johnson vs. TBD 7:05 pm NESN

7/28 David Price vs. J.A. Happ (L) 7:00 pm ESPN

NOTABLE NUMBERS

PITCHERS

Eduardo Rodriguez really turned it on in July after a mixed start of the season. After allowing 52 earned runs in his first 97 2/3 innings, he allowed just seven earned runs in 31 innings in July, giving him a 2.03 ERA. His one Achilles heel here could be that he has a 4.35 ERA on the road, but much of that damage was done prior to the July turn around. Rodrguez could get the Red Sox off to a flying start in this series.

What a strange season it has been for James Paxton at home. In his first five home starts he allowed just one earned run in 26 2/3 innings with 37 strikeouts. However, in the last five starts in New York things have somewhat changed. In 21 1/3 innings he has allowed 19 earned runs with 24 strikeouts. It has been a clear season of two halves so far, so which Paxton will we see this time around?

Domingo German has been superb at home this season, with a 2.13 ERA and 55 strikeouts in 42 1/3 innings. He has not allowed more than three earned runs in any of those home starts. That matchup with Sale in the early start on Saturday is going to be a fascinating watch, but it might be hard for Sale to come out on top.

HITTERS

The Red Sox could not have a better combination of pitchers in this series, given they have three left-handed pitchers and the Yankees are distinctly average against lefties this season. They rank 15th in the league in batting average, 14th in slugging percentage and ISO, and 11th in K%.

So far the Red Sox offense has built through the season, and they appear to be peaking right now. Having hit just .239 in April/May, they hit .302 in July, with a .534 slugging percentage and 173 runs scored. They could not be heading into New York in much better form at the plate than they are.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR

Pitching: The red Sox pitching staff has generally been better on the road this season. Yes, they have allowed more home runs in fewer games on the road, but around that they have performed better. On the road, they own a 4.34 ERA and a .249 batting average against. This is important because the Red Sox need to keep picking up wins away from home. They are also likely to be playing playoff series as the road team, and given their home form they will need to pinch a few games on the road if they want to make a deep playoff run.

Hitting: Andrew Benintendi has received a lot of flack this season for his performance. However, what he does extremely well is hit the Yankees. In his career he hits .317 with a .523 slugging percentage against them. He has been especially good these past two seasons, hitting over .300 both years. This season, in 36 PA he is hitting .396 with two home runs and five extra-base hits. In big spots this season the Red Sox will be hoping that Benintendi can continue that form.

EXPECTATIONS

It is too early to completely write off the Red Sox shot at the division, but after this most recent series, it is hanging by a thread. For the last month or so they have Yo-Yo’d around this 8-10 game mark behind the Yankees. It is realistic to say that the Wildcard is their most likely route to the playoffs. However, that does not mean they should not target the division.

This will be a tough series, but then we were saying this last week at this time. The Red Sox proved last week that they can go toe-to-toe with this Yankees team. Even if they do not ultimately win the division, taking these games off the Yankees now could reap psychological benefits down the road. This series may ultimately end up not mattering for the division, but for the wildcard, the pride of the Red Sox and potentially putting fear into this Yankees team, it matters a lot.

LeBron James celebrates his son’s alley-oop in a rather strange way

In a recent basketball game, LeBron James’s son, LeBron James Jr., managed to score an impressive alley-oop. Being that he is only 14 years old, this is impressive just from the fact that he is still so young. Then again, it’s not like most of the adult population can even score an alley-oop. Most of us can’t even jump that high so it’s understandable that LeBron James had a very interesting reaction to his son’s feat. 

LeBron jumped from his seat and his shoe seems to have fallen off as well. He then gave his kid a high five in a sort of frantic antic while spinning on the field. This is somewhat strange seeing as how the game was still going on, so it’s safe to say that LeBron might have gone a bit too far with his celebration. Many people on Twitter agreed with this and they took it to their keyboards to voice their opinions. Many people said that they usually defend and even love LeBron but this time he just acted way too childish for their taste. Whether or not he really did act too childish is on you to decide.

Whatever you might think, some people disagreed that his reaction was overblown. Many people even thought that it was pretty normal given the circumstances. As we all know LeBron James is one of the wealthiest men in the world of NBA basketball and he wants his son to surpass him if possible. It’s well known that LeBron has been one of the biggest supporters of children during his career. All of that coupled with the fact that this was his son who was performing on the field that day is surely enough of a justification some people thought. 

It wasn’t just some people who came to voice their opinion on Twitter. Even Jayson Tatum cam to LeBron’s defense despite being his rival for most of his career, Source: Factinate. Jason said that nobody has the right to criticize LeBron James, especially given the fact that most fathers these days don’t even pay attention to their children. At least LeBron is there for his son when he needs him the most and he supports him, even though some might find his support outlandish at times. It makes sense that he would be this exhilarated with his son’s performance however.

All in all, while some people might disagree with his behavior, if Jayson Tatum gave LeBron James a green light for how he celebrated, then there’s no doubt about it that it was as appropriate as it gets. We can’t really dispute it when some of the biggest names in NBA are the ones who we’re talking about it. But you don’t have to be a professional basketball player to have entertainment. You can always entertain yourself with the best free online games. No matter what you’re into, there’s surely something that will pique your interest while online.

The Revs Face Their Biggest Challenge of the Year

In case you haven’t been paying attention, the Revs are the hottest team in MLS, currently on an 11 game unbeaten streak. This Saturday they face the biggest challenge they’ve had in years. They will go up against league leading LAFC at home. The Revs currently sit in a playoff position in seventh place, but a win with some help could boost them up to fourth, third, or even second place in the East. As mentioned, LAFC are the best team in MLS, but the Revs are the hottest team. Since the hiring of Bruce arena, the Revs haven’t lost a single game. Saturday’s game will be the first big challenge of Arenas tenure. It’s also the biggest game of the year, and here’s why.

Make a statement 

People have been talking throughout this streak that the Revs have a chance to make a push for the playoffs. But the fact of the matter is, with the exception of Gustavo Bou, this is the same team that went 2-8-2 to start the season. A win against a powerhouse like LAFC will prove to people that this team has what it takes to be contenders in the MLS Cup playoffs. The strongest team the Revs have faced on this streak is DC United, who they didn’t even beat. Although Bruce Arena has won four games on the road, something no other head coach had done since 2014, he still has more to prove.

A Familiar face

Jul 22, 2017; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution midfielder Lee Nguyen (24) celebrates his goal against the Los Angeles Galaxy during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

On Saturday, the Revs will also be visited by a friendly face in Lee Nguyen. Lee, on paper, will always be regarded as a Revs legend. However, the way he exited the team has left a taint on his reputation. Half of fans will tell you he’s one of the best, some fans will tell you they hate him. One thing’s for sure: When the whistle blows on Saturday it will be all business. If you’re wondering if he’ll get cheered or booed on Saturday, think back to Wes Welcker’s return. It will be a healthy mix of both.

What This Game Means

If the Revs lose, the longest unbeaten streak they’ve had since 2005 will come to an end. But if they win, they will cement themselves as a real Cup contender. A loss could see the Revs fall out of a playoff position if Toronto is able to beat the Redbulls. However, a win could mathematically put the Revs into second place in the East. What would it take for this to happen? Montreal would have to lose to Colorado. Atlanta would have to lose to the LA Galaxy, and NYCFC lose to Real Salt Lake. Then DC United would have to lose to Philadelphia.

On top of all of this, the Revs would have to erase a 14 goal differential to take second place. And to take third, a 10 goal differential. A win, combined with loses from both New York teams and Montreal, would put the Revs in fourth. This will be the most important game of the Revs season up until this point, so get yourself out to Gillette Stadium at 7:30 on Saturday to witness it in person.

Tips & tricks on taking care of compression socks

Everywhere you look, you’ll find someone or the other wearing socks, and there are a lot of styles and variations to go with. Since the invention of socks arrived, everyone has taken a liking to them. In a way, you could say they have become an important essential for your attire. Now, there are some cases where you may want something more than the average sock. Something that can offer more than just warmth for your feet.

If you want to experiment, you could try compression socks. Compression socks aren’t your average socks. In fact, these are made for health reasons. Most compression socks are actually made with a special material. When there are special materials involved, there are different means to take care of them. First off, these socks can be worn under different circumstances. You may be an athlete, physical trainer, recovering from surgery, and many more. These socks can support your feet as well as maintain a positive blood circulation function. Surely, they may cost a few bucks more than normal socks, but with the benefits they bring, it’d be worth the investment. There are a lot of options for you to pick and choose from, and it doesn’t have to be hard to choose one. When you’re looking around, consider going online and searching, “where can I buy compression socks?” You’ll be pointed to the right direction of so many great brands that you can look through.

Finding the perfect pair of socks is just the beginning of it all. When taking care of compression gear, you need to remember that it’s not your average garment. There are two great ways to make sure they stay in shape for a long time.

Consider hand washing any form of compression gear

The life of compression socks can be extended simply by hand washing them. You can just wash them by hand and then lay them down in a safe area to dry. Both washer machines and dryers can cause roughness, something that you should avoid with compression gear. When you hand wash them, you will have control of how hard you scrub and how much pressure is being applied. Compression socks are made with a unique synthetic fabric mixture, so extra care needs to be taken when it comes to washing them. Handling the washing part on your own is better than trusting your appliances to get the job done without ruining the socks.

Try to avoid unnecessary stretching

As hard as it is, it’s important to do your best to avoid stretching your socks improperly. Just like other compression gears, they are designed to apply gentle pressure to your feet and limbs. By excessively stretching the socks, you will slowly take away its ability to do so. In order for them to maintain that function, you have to make sure they aren’t being stretched so much.

When you purchase a brand new pair of socks, you want them to last instead of them wearing out really quickly. Taking better care of them will lead to an increased life span for your compression socks. Having compression socks as a garment option wouldn’t be a bad idea, and can actually benefit your health.

Enes Kanter: Basketball Provides Platform

Bigger Than Basketball

Enes Kanter recently signed a 2-year $10 Million contract with the Boston Celtics. The former Trailblazer joined All-NBA point guard Kemba Walker as the two noteworthy off-season Celtics free agent acquisitions. Kanter will fill the veteran offensive void left by the departure of Al Horford. One of the best post players in the NBA, Kanter averaged 13.7 points and 9.8 rebounds per game on splits of 54.9/29.4/78.7 in 2018-2019. The University of Kentucky star was the 3rd pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the highest for any Turkish-born player in NBA history. Kanter is also only the fourth first round Turkish NBA Draft Pick, joining Mirsad Türkan, Hedo Türkoğlu, and Furkan Korkmaz.

Beyond basketball, Kanter is most known for social media and human rights activism. The Turkish government accused Kanter of financially assisting a failed coup of the Turkish government in 2016. Turkey cancelled Kanter’s passport in 2017, issued a warrant for his arrest and threatened to revoke his citizenship. The Kanter family even publicly disowned Kanter as a result of constant harassment. Kanter refrained from traveling outside of the United States for work for fear of his life after being stranded stateless in Europe in 2017.

Kemba Walker (8) and Enes Kanter (11) were officially introduced as Boston Celtics Wednesday at a press conference. (Image credit: AP)

Culture Clashes on the Court

Enes Kanter’s only family contact is through his younger brother Kerem Kanter. Kerem last played college basketball at Xavier University, and now plays for France’s Pro A League. At the introductory press conference Kanter described his family as happy for him, but insisted his human rights activism took precedence. Imagine working in another country without the support of your family. Imagine not even being able to communicate with them.

Kanter is a devout Muslim and observes Ramadan, a month-long session of prayer and reflection, including fasting. This occurs during the NBA season, a constant source of scrutiny for Kanter during this religious period. This exact scenario nearly played out last season when Kanter was a member of the Portland Trailblazers. When you consider Kanter’s work ethic and dedication to the game, the commitment to his native country and exposing human rights violations, as well as his personal sacrifices, you clearly see the high-quality character Kanter possesses.

Enes Kanter directs kids at his youth basketball camp in West Hempstead, NY after the original camp was cancelled for political reasons. (Image credit: Howard Simmons)

Basketball Provides Platform

Enes Kanter has made it clear he appreciates his position as an NBA player. His stature allows him a voice not provided to many Turkish nationals or expatriates with human rights concerns. He has made several personal and professional sacrifices in his career to allow him to voice those concerns. Kanter can’t do it himself, evidenced by travel restrictions and safety concerns. Politics have even effected Kanter’s free youth basketball camps. The Islamic Center of Long Island in Westbury, NY cancelled the camp last week after external pressure. Kanter blamed Turkish representatives and the New York Turkish consulate for the cancelled youth camp, a claim those representatives deny.

Thankfully, more sensible heads prevailed. Kanter’s youth camp proceeded at the Island Garden in West Hempstead, NY after the intervention of Congresswoman Kathleen Rice. Kanter has now enlisted the help of over 20 senators and representatives to express his intentions and work with foreign governments to allow and ensure safe travel during games and events, including: Senators Ed Markey, Ron Wyden and Representatives Joe Kennedy, Peter King and Rice. Fans, teammates, camp attendees and myriad representatives either know or are beginning to see what Enes Kanter is all about. Now it’s Boston’s turn.

Five Wide Receiver Options for the Patriots

The immediate feeling around the NFL was that Julian Edelman will recover from his thumb injury in time to be healthy for the preseason. However, it now seems like this is not the case. On the bright side, there are a few options at the Wide Receiver position available.

Let’s take a look at five of them right now.

Kelvin Benjamin

Although he had what most would consider to be a down season last year and has played for three teams in the past two years (all three sent him packing), Kelvin Benjamin is still a solid option at the Wide Receiver position. Tom Brady would have a field day with a guy of his stature. His size creates the opportunity for for him to be used as a Receiver or a hybrid Tight End. Perhaps some time in New England would repair Benjamin’s “lazy” reputation.

Mike Wallace

Although he is one of the older options available, Mike Wallace can still put up great numbers when healthy. He is just two years removed from a 72 catch season with the Baltimore Ravens. In fact, Wallace has had only two seasons in which he amassed less than 50 receptions. Wallace and Edelman are also about the same size, so perhaps the Patriots could also use him in a similar role.

Terrance Williams

Terrance Williams is a Wide Receiver that showed some promise while he was with the Dallas Cowboys until last season when he was derailed by a foot injury and a suspension for a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy. The Patriots wouldn’t lose much by simply inviting him in for a tryout. Williams can easily give a team 50-60 receptions a season, and Edelman is essentially the only pass catcher on the Patriots that can be relied upon for numbers like this. The bottom line is, Tom Brady needs a reliable pass target and Williams is the most cost efficient option available.

Michael Crabtree

If the Patriots are looking for a big play Wide Receiver, Michael Crabtree is the best man for the job. Crabtree is only 31 so he has a few more good years left in him. He might even be the team’s number one receiver once Edelman is healthy. The addition of Crabtree would soften the retirement of Rob Gronkowski (something we’ve already covered).

Brandon LaFell

Before you guys bring up his disastrous 2015 season, let’s look at 2014. In 2014, Brandon LaFell established career highs in almost every category and won a Super Bowl with the Patriots. It’s also worth noting that he was hurt in 2015. A reunion would do nothing but good for both sides. The truth is LaFell knows the Patriots offense better than any player on this list and Brady will already trust him. With Edelman on the shelf no Wide Receiver on the roster will have had Tom Brady as their Quarterback. With that being said, bringing back a former Patriot that can still play makes sense. If he plays anything like 2014 or his two years with the Bengals, why not call him?