Who knew this Tiger was a cheetah? And the Celtics keep rollin' out west

  The biggest story of the weekend, sports or otherwise, is the re-emergence of Mr. Tiger Woods after a near three month hiatus stemming from some "personal" issues.  Unfortunately for Tiger, his personal issues are viewed, and discussed on a global scale, which is a small price to pay for being the most lucrative, and recognizable athlete on the planet.  When grandmothers, housewives, and people who pay little or no attention to the world of sports know who you are, as in Tiger's case, you have officially entered celebrity status, essentially making you fair game for the media and tabloids alike.  So, when get caught cheating on your wife, with over a dozen women no less, expect to see your mug on the forefront of every media outlet imaginable.  Tiger may not think it's justified, he may believe that these issues should remain in the confines of his home, but that's not how it works.  The people that watch his tournaments, buy his products, and show unwavering support have helped fund all of the cars, houses, and yachts he has enjoyed over the last 10+ years, and now they want answers.  But, that's the primary dilemma, Tiger has never had to do anything he didn't want, so the notion of being forced to apologize is extremely unnerving for him, which is why yesterday's statement from Tiger was noticeably bitter and disingenuous.  Similar to a 5 year old who is forced to applogize by his nagging mother, Tiger was simply going through the motions, so to speak.  Throw in a couple of "on the brink of tears" moments, and a big hug from his mom, and I'm getting nauseous all over again.

  The big winner from yesterday's presser was Tiger's wife, Elin, who did not accompany her husband to the podium.  Unlike the shamed celebrity wives who have come before her, Elin has elected to not look like a complete and utter buffoon by unconditionally supporting her husband through this ordeal.  Obviously it remains to be seen whether or not she sticks around, but yesterday was a crucial step for all women in similar situation, proving that keeping your dignity in tact is a great alternative to accepting money, bling, or cars in exchange for silence (see Vanessa Bryant, and countless wives of athletes/politicians).  Elin may choose to stay with Woods, and if she does I pity her, but at least she has managed to keep a portion of her pride to this point, and that's pretty refreshing in this day and age.  It's frightening to think about the role models that current adolescent girls have to look up to.  Whether they are looking at girls being sexually promiscuous, abused, or otherwise manipulated, the female youth of America have a less than desirable field of role models to choose from.  That's not to imply that it's all gloom and doom for these girls, but a strong female figure, such as Elin in this context, could be a tremendous force moving forward.

  Now, it's on to the most unpredictable team in sports, the Boston Celtics.  A team that just a week ago looked completely toast, has turned in three huge wins on arguably their toughest road trip of the year.  The trade deadline has passed, and this team looks refocused and ready to reclaim their position amongst the NBA's elite clubs.  Since returning from the all-star break this team has started to play defense with a purpose, conjuring up memories of performances past, and making me giddy in the process.  Last night was likely their most complete game of the season, a full 48 minute display of effort, and playing as a cohesive unit.  Most importantly is the play of Kevin Garnett, which has visibly improved over the last two games.  He appears to have regained some of that lateral movement and explosion that make him so effective on the hardwood.  But above all else, KG has found some of the fire that this team has so desperately lacked.  He's out there barkin', cursing, and employing all of the other intangibles that set him apart.  Again, I don't know if that knee will ever return to full strength, but if it continues to improve, watch out.  Also, glad to Ray Allen rediscover his shooting touch last night.  At one point when Ray was completely zoned in, I saw him run past the Celtics bench shrugging his shoulders, and uttering the words "I'm hot".  In other words, he told his coach to keep the rest of the starters on the bench, and ride the hot-hand, which is precisely what they did.  Lastly, a shout-out to Eddie House, the recently traded Celtic's guard, who undoubtedly played a major role in the franchise's 17th banner.  I'll never forget the daggers Eddie threw at the Lakers in the '08 Finals, or the Garden crowd chanting his name after one of his 3-point barrages.  Thanks for the memories, Eddie, you will be missed.  On the other side of that trade is newly aquired Nate Robinson, a 5'8" spark-plug who should be able to give our bench instant energy and points.  Also, watch out for a Rondo/Robinson backcourt in ball-pressure situations, especially in tight games.