Basketball Picks, Feb 28th

A few games look good on the court tonight.

1 unit on the UNDER (179 @ -105) Philadelphia/Chicago

The UNDER has cashed in 5 of the last 6 games between the 76ers and Bulls.

1 unit @ 11/10 on North Carolina (-2 1/2) over Clemson

The Tigers have dropped 5 of their last 6 games. The Heels have won 3 straight.

1 unit @ 11/10 on South Carolina (+9 1/2) over Missouri

The Tigers are 1-7 on the highway this season and have lost 5 of their last 8 overall. The Gamecocks are 9-7 at home.

Starting Bankroll                       300 units
Profit/Loss                                8.90 units
Current Bankroll                    308.90 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 28th

There are several games on the ice tonight that are worth a peek.

$30 on the UNDER (5 @ -105) Ottawa/Boston

The UNDER is 7-1-2 in the Senators last 10 games and 6-3 in the Bruins last 9.

$30 on the OVER (5 1/2 @ -110) Pittsburgh/Carolina

The OVER is 4-1 in the Penguins last 5 games and 3-1 in Carolina's last 4.

$30 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -125) Buffalo/Florida

The UNDER has cashed in 7 of Buffalo's last 9 games.

$30 on the UNDER (5 @ -125) Minnesota/Phoenix

The UNDER has lost only once in the Wild's last 10 games.

Starting Bankroll                        $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                                   ($54.90)
Current Bankroll                           $945.10

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 27th

Several games on the court look like plays today.

3 units on the UNDER (207 @ -105) Sacramento/Orlando

3 units on the OVER (205 @ -105) Golden State/NY Knicks

3 units @ 11-10 on Golden State (+8) over NY Knicks

3 units @ 11/10 on Houston (-8) over Milwaukee

3 units on the OVER (197 1/2 @ -105) Phoenix/San Antonio

3 units @ 11-10 on Iowa (-9 1/2) over Purdue

Iowa is 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games and 8-1 ATS in their last 9 home games.

Starting Bankroll                    300 units
Profit/Loss                             3.80 units
Current Bankroll                 303.80 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Life and Death and Poker

The cards have treated me much better the past week.

Last Friday I was able to win the tournament at Tin Man's, hitting a straight in heads up play against OxyJohn for the win. I added a few more dollars in the cash games and walked away $22 to the good.

My good fortune continued last night at the Duck Blind, winning another $26. The deck hit me in the face pretty consistently, and I was able to bluff J-Dawg off a hand, which is always more fun than winning a pot with the best hand.

Ray-Ray won the High Hand Jackpot with quad kings in a hand of Omaha in our $20 buy-in, dealer's choice limit game. He also was the big winner on the evening, leaving with an extra $53 in his wallet.

Ray and his wife Van have had a tough week. Last Wednesday they learned that Van's sister had died suddenly from a brain aneurism. Forty-two years old with a 13 year old daughter. Ray said that they were bringing the daughter (Katelyn) into their home and would raise her. Fortunately they live in the same school district, so at least Katelyn won't have to change schools. Keep this family in your thoughts and prayers in the coming days.

Ms. Duck celebrates another birthday today.

For you my love.

 
Life goes on.

Hockey Picks, Feb 27th

It looks like there could be a few profitable match ups on the ice tonight.

$20 on Toronto (-105) over Montreal

The Leafs have won 4 of their last 6 and beat the Canadians 2-1 last month. Motreal has dropped 2 of their last 3.

$20 on Philadelphia (-140) over Washington

The Caps have struggled on the highway, losing 6 of 8.

$20 on Anaheim (-125) over Nashville

The Ducks are 6-1 at home this season.

$20 on the UNDER (5 @ -110) Nashville/Anaheim

The UNDER is 9-6-1 in Anaheim games this season

$20 on the OVER (5 @ -105) Detroit/Los Angeles

Over is 4-2-1 in Detroit's last 7 games.

Starting Bankroll                         $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                                     ($25.20)
Current Bankroll                            $974.80

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 26th

Quite a few good games in the hoops world tonight.

3 units on the OVER (197 1/2 @ -105) Golden State/Indiana

The OVER is 35-20-1 in Warriors' games this season.

3 units @ 11/10 on Chicago (-8) over Cleveland

The Bulls have covered 7 straight times versus the Cavs.

3 units @ 11/10 on Memphis (-3 1/2) over Xavier

The Tigers Are 24-3 and 8-1 on the highway. They have also won 18 in a row. Xavier is 9-3 at home. Overall they have dropped 5 of their last 9.

3 units @ 11/10 on Towson (+6 1/2) over George Mason

The Tigers have won 6 of their last 7. The Patriots are 17-11 and 8-5 on their home court. GMU won the first game between the two 77-67.

 3 units @ 11/10 on Tennessee (+9 1/2) over Florida

The Vols are 12-4 at home. They have run off 5 straight ATS. The Gators are 22-4 and 7-3 on the highway. In their last 7, they are 2-5 ATS. Tennessee is 15-7 ATS versus Florida in their last 22 games.

3 units @ 11/10 on Wake Forest (+6) over Florida State

Wake is 12-5 ATS in their last 17 games.  FSU is 1-10-1 ATS in their last 12. Wake crushed the Seminoles 71-46 in their first game this season.

Starting Bankroll                           300 units
Profit/Loss                                     4.55 units
Current Bankroll                        304.55 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 26th

There are a few opportunities on tonight's NHL menu.

$10 on Tampa Bay (-145) over Buffalo

Tampa is 3-2 in their last 5 games. The Sabres are 1-6 in their last 7.

$10 on Pittsburgh (-165) over Florida

The Pens are 5-1 in their last 6. Florida is 1-7 in their last 8. Pittsburgh won the first game between the two this season last week by a 3-1 score.

$10 on the UNDER (5 @ -105) Calgary/Minnesota

The UNDER has cashed in 4 of the Flames last 6 with one push and in 3 of the Wild's last 4 games.

$10 on the UNDER (6 @ -105) Colorado/San Jose

The UNDER has cashed in 5 straight Sharks games.

Starting Bankroll                       $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                                 ($24.20)
Current Bankroll                        $975.80

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Birthday Boy!

Sonny Boy officially becomes an adult today as he celebrates his 21st.

Our family traveled to Austin last Saturday to celebrate both his and his Mom's (Feb 27th) birthdays. We at at a Cajun restaurant called Razoos. Ms. Duck and my daughter both had catfish, Sonny Boy went with a blackened chicken po' boy, M2s fiancee opted for the alligator tail, and my choice was red beans and rice with sausage.

Ms Duck commented that it might be a long ride home with all those beans working in my GI system. I didn't disappoint her. The first thing I did when we got in the car for the ride home was lock the window switches, then I dropped a few "air biscuits" for them to enjoy on the way home. Fun times!

Just because I'm growing old doesn't mean I'm growing up :)

I'm proud of both my kids. Sonny Boy is well into his college career, majoring in Psychology, and is currently volunteering at the college's crisis center. He's also holding down a part time job at Toys-R-Us. He's a busy man!

Weighing in at 255 at the beginning of last year, his New Year's Resolution was to drop some weight. Thirteen months later he tips the scales at a svelte 150.

Losing 100+ pounds takes a lot of discipline. He is determined to keep it off and I am confident that he will.

He has saved up for quite a while and today is going to purchase his first side arm. A true Texan.

Guess maybe I'll get him some ammo as a gift.

Happy Birthday son!

Basketball Picks, Feb 25th

A few games on the dockets tonight that are worth a peek.

2 units @ 11/10 on Marquette (+1 1/2) over Syracuse

Marquette is 19-7 and a stellar 14-1 at home. The Orangemen are 22-5 and 6-3 on the road.

2 units on Iowa St (+ 0) over Kansas

The Cyclones are 19-8 this season and undefeated in 16 home games. The Jayhawks are 23-4 and 6-2 when traveling. Iowa St has won 3 straight and Kansas has won 4 in a row. The Jayhawks won the first game between the two 97-89 at home.

2 units @ 11/10 on Utah (-6 1/2) over Boston

The Jazz are 21-6 at home. The Shamrocks are 9-18 on the highway.

2 units @ 11/10 on  Atlanta (-3) over Detroit

The Hawks have won 3 of the last 4 games versus the Pistons and have won 4 of their last 5 overall. The Pistons have not been hitting on all cylinders, losing 3 of their last 4. At home they are a pedestrian 15-17 this season.

Starting Bankroll                           300 units
Profit/Loss                                     4.95 units
Current Bankroll                        304.95 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 25th

One game looks like a play on the ice tonight.

$10 on Chicago (-175) over Edmonton

The Blackhawks are white hot, starting the season at 15-0-3. The Oilers are 3-8 in their last 11 games.

$10 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -105) Edmonton/Chicago

The UNDER has gone 5-1-1 in Chicago's last 7 games. The OVER has cashed in only 3 of Edmonton's 17 games.

Starting Bankroll                       $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                                 ($39.40)
Current Bankroll                        $960.60

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 24th

There are quite a few of the Sunday games that look like good opportunities.

1 unit on the OVER (202 1/2 @ -105) Cleveland/Miami

1 unit on the OVER (203 1/2 @ -102) Sacramento/New Orleans

1 unit on the OVER (199 @ -107) San Antonio/Phoenix

1 unit on the OVER (194 1/2 @ -103) Chicago/Oklahoma City

1 unit @ 11/10 on Florida State (-1 1/2) over Virginia Tech

1 unit @ 11/10 on Purdue (-6 1/2) over Northwestern

Starting Bankroll                           300 units
Profit/Loss                                     5.25 units
Current Bankroll                        305.25 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 24th

Another busy day in the NHL that has several favorable match ups.

$10 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -105) Florida/Boston

$10 on Winnipeg (+145) over New Jersey

$10 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -105) Winnipeg/New Jersey

$10 on the OVER (5 1/2 @ -105) Carolina/NY Islanders

$10 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -105) Colombus/Chicago

$10 on the OVER (6 @ -105) Tampa Bay/Pittsburgh

$10 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -105) Phoenix/Calgary

$10 on Anaheim (-170) over Colorado

$10 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @-105) Colorado/Anaheim

Starting Bankroll                       $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                                 ($67.80)
Current Bankroll                          $932.20

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 23rd

Quite a few games on the hardwood today that look like possibilities.

1 unit @ 11/10 on Memphis (-6 1/2) over Southern Mississippi

1 unit @ 11/10 on Valpariso (-6 1/2) over Eastern Kentucky

1 unit on Xavier (+175) over Virginia Commonwealth

1 unit @ 11/10 on Washington St. (+15) over Arizona

1 unit @ 11/10 on Indiana Purdue (E) over Wisconsin Milwaukee

1 unit on Southern Utah (+140) over CSU Northridge

1 unit @ 11/10 on Cleveland (-5 1/2) over Orlando

1 unit @ 11/10 on Indiana (-3) over Detroit

1 unit on the UNDER (209 @ -105) Denver/Charlotte

1 unit on the OVER (200 @ -105) Cleveland/Orlando

1 unit on the OVER (188 @ -105) Indiana/Detroit

Starting Bankroll                             300 units
Profit/Loss                                       4.20 units
Current Bankroll                           304.20 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 23rd

Several games on the NHL docket look interesting.

$40 on Washington (+105) over New Jersey

The Caps are 3-2 in their last 5 games, the Devil just the opposite at 2-3.
 

$40@ 11/10 on Montreal (-130) over NY Rangers

The Canadians are 7-3-1 at home this season, while the Rangers are 2-3 on the highway. Montreal won the only match up between the two this season, winning 3-1 ten days ago.
 

$40 on the UNDER (5 @ -120) NY Rangers/Montreal

The UNDER is 2-0-2 in the last 4 games between these two teams.

$40 on the UNDER (5 1/2 @ -105) NY Islanders/Buffalo

The last two games between the Isles and Sabres have gone UNDER.

$40 @ 11/10 on Carolina (-120) over Tampa Bay

Carolina is 3-2 in their last 5 games. Tampa has really struggled lately, losing 7 of their last 9.

$40 on the UNDER (5 @ +105) Minnesota/Calgary

The UNDER has cashed in Calgary's last two games and is 7-1-2 in Minnesota's last 10.

Starting Bankroll                       $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                                 ($217.80)
Current Bankroll                          $782.20

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 22nd

Only one college game worth a look, but several NBA matches are interesting.

1 unit @ 11/10 on Akron (-6 1/2) over North Dakota St

The Zips are 13-0 at home this season and have won 17 straight overall. ND STate is 20-7 this season and 7-6 on the highway.

1 unit on Toronto (+105) over NY Knicks

The Dinosaurs have won 5 of their last 6 and beat the Knicks 92-88 ten days ago. NY has dropped 4 of their last 5.

1 unit @ 11/10 on Atlanta (-7 1/2) over Sacramento

The Hawks have won 4 of their last 6. In the only game between the two teams this season, Atlanta destroyed the Kings 112-96.

1 unit on the UNDER (187 @ -105) Chicago/Charlotte

The UNDER has cashed in 8 of the last 10 games for the Bobcats and 3 of the last 5 for 'da Bulls.

1 unit on the OVER (208 @ -105) Houston/Brooklyn

The OVER has cashed in 6 of 7 for the Rockets and 3 of 5 for the Nets.

1 unit on the OVER (200 1/2 @ -105) Atlanta/Sacramento

The OVER has been a winner in 4 of the last 6 for the Hawks. The Kings are 4-0-1 in their last 5 when betting the OVER.

1 unit on the OVER (200 @ -110) Portland/LA Lakers

The Blazers have covered the OVER in 7 of their previous 8 games. The Lakers are 3-1 cashing the OVER in their last 4 outings.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                     (0.35) units
Current Bankroll          299.65 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 22nd

One match up on the rink tonight looks good.

$20 on Pittsburgh (-215) over Florida

The Penguins are 11-6 this season and have won 3 of their last 4. Florida is 5-7-4 and have dropped 5 of their last 6. They are also playing back to back games.

$20 on the OVER (5 1/2 @ -105) Pittsburgh/Florida

Pittsburgh has hit the OVER in 3 of its last 4. Florida has cashed the OVER in 3 of their last 5.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                     ($207.10)
Current Bankroll            $792.90

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 21st

A few match ups look playable on tonight's busy hoops menu.

1 unit @ 11/10 on Temple (-1) over LaSalle

The Owls are 17-8 and 10-3 on their own turf. The Explorers are 18-6 and have won 4 straight. They have won 7 of 11 on the highway.

1 unit on Connecticut (+100) over Cincinnati

The Huskies are 13-4 when eating home cooking. The Bearcats are a respectable 6-2 on the road  this season. Cincy has dropped 3 of their last 4.

1 unit on Chicago (+140) over Miami

The Heat is hot, but they are beatable on the road, posting a 14-11 road record this season. The Bulls are 15-12 at home.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                     (1.15) units
Current Bankroll          298.85 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 21st

Several games look good on tonight's schedule.

$10 @ 11/10 on Carolina (-145) over Winnipeg

Carolina has won 3 of their last 4 games. The Jets have dropped 3 of 4.

$10 @ 11/10 on NY Rangers (-125) over Ottawa

NY has won 4 of their previous 6 games. The Senators are 3-4 in their last 7.

$10 on Dallas (+130) over Vancouver

The Stars have won 5 of 7. The Canucks have lost 3 straight. Dallas won the first match 4-3 last week.

$10 @ (+135) on the OVER 5.5, Vancouver/Dallas

Both teams have gone "over" in their last 3 games.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                     ($194.60)
Current Bankroll            $805.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

PokerPalooza

It was a rough night for me at our Tuesday night PokerPalooza game at the Duck Blind.

The evening began well enough, with Stamps bringing a brisket he had smoked earlier in the day. Add some buns BBQ sauce, and condiments and you've got yourself a pretty tasty meal. My daughter's chocolate cup cakes that she had baked for dessert were consumed quickly and we were tossing cards shortly after 7 o'clock.

We had a full table for our $20 buy-in, dealer's choice limit game. Seated were Bobby Dee, J-Dawg, Stamps, Dealer Larry, Farmer Harry, Ollie the Accountant, Ray-Ray, Glass Man, and Lucki Duck.

Ray-Ray won the High Hand Jackpot when he hit quad queens in a hand of Omaha early in the evening. However, J-Dawg was the big winner again this week, walking away with a $30 profit, most of it from my bankroll.

Every now and then you just have one of those nights. My hole cards were consistently bad, and when I had a decent starting hand I would wiff the flop. If my hand was good enough to play to the river, I pretty much had the second best hand. That gets expensive.

By the time the carnage was over I had won only two hands and dropped 23 bucks. It's nights like this that make you thankful you are playing for small potatoes :)

Although it was an expensive evening, it was an enjoyable one. The truth is that if I had to pay $20 for dinner and a few hours of poker with friends, Mr. Jackson would be leaving my wallet every time.

I have a road trip coming up this weekend. Sonny Boy turns 21 on Monday and Ms. Duck turns ?? on Wednesday, so our family will be heading south to Austin to eat at Razoos, which is supposed to be very good. Should be fun!

Till next time, win the flips.

Hockey Picks, Feb 20th

A couple games on the ice are worth playing.

$40 on the UNDER 5.5 (+105) Philadelphia/Pittsburgh

Both teams are playing well defensively, with the Flyers surrenduring only 9 goals in their last 3 games. The Pens have been even better, giving up only 6.

$20 on the OVER 5.5 (+100) St Louis/Colorado

The Avs have been burned for 14 goals their last three games.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                     ($134.60)
Current Bankroll            $865.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 20th

One game on the schedule that looks good.

3 units on Morehead State (+110) over Murray State

The Eagles are 10-4 at home this season. The Racers are 18-7 and 8-4 on the highway.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                     1.95 units
Current Bankroll          301.95 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 19th

One game on the rink tonight that's worth a peek.

$30 on Toronto (+140) over Tampa Bay

The Leafs are 6-1 in their last 7 games, including two shut out wins in their last two games. Tampa is 1-6 in their last 7 and have lost 3 straight home games. Toronto won all 4 match ups last year, scoring 20 goals in those games.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                     ($104.60)
Current Bankroll            $895.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 19th

Several games on tap on the hardwood that look like plays.

3 units @ 11/10 on Utah (-3) over Golden State

The Jazz are 20-6 at home and have won 5 of their last 6 there. The Warriors are 14-15 on the highway and have dropped 9 of their last 12 when traveling. Currently they are on a 5 game losing streak. They did beat the Jazz 94-83 in December.

3 units @ 11/10 on Nevada (-6) over Fresno State

The Wolf Pack are a pedestrian 12-12 this season, but are tougher at home, posting  a 10-4 record. The Bulldogs are 8-16 and have dropped 7 of their last8 games. They have only won 3 times in 12 tries on the road. Nevada won the first match up this year 68-61 at Fresno.

2 units @ 11/10 on Michigan St (-1) over Indiana

The Spartans are 22-4 this season and a perfect 15-0 at home. The Hoosiers are 23-3 and 7-1 on foreign soil. Michigan State has won 7 straight at home against Indiana.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                     4.25 units
Current Bankroll          304.25 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 18th

It's a pretty short schedule today, but there is one match up I like.

2 units @ 11/10 on Lehigh (-2) over Bucknell

The Mountain Hawks (a great nickname) are 18-6 overall and 9-2 at home. The Bison are 21-5 and 11-4 as a roadie. Lehigh won the first game this season 65-62 at Bucknell. This should be a good one.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                     6.25 units
Current Bankroll          306.25 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 18th

One game on the rink tonight that's worth a dollar or two.

$20 @ 11/10 on Nashville (-120) over Colorado

The Predators are 7-8 this season and 4-4 on foreign ice. They've won 3 of their last 4 road games and have won 9 straight against the Avs. Colorado is 5-8 this season and 3-3 at home. Nashville has surrendered only 3 goals in their last 3 games while the Avalance has given up 12 in their last 3.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                     ($84.60)
Current Bankroll            $915.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 17th

I only see a couple games worth a peek today.

2 units @ 11/10 on Cleveland St (-7 1/2) over UW-Milwaukee

Cleveland St. plays well at home, UWM is 0-13 on the highway.

3 units @ 11/10 on Iowa (-1) over Minnesota

The Hawkeyes are hard to beat on their home court. The Gophers are a very good team, but they are venerable on the road.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                     1.75 units
Current Bankroll          301.75 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 16th

Several games on today's hockey schedule look interesting, but none of them offer enough of an edge to bet.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                     ($84.60)
Current Bankroll            $915.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 15th

One match up tonight looks like an opportunity to make a little scratch.

$40 on Anaheim (+110) over Detroit

The Ducks have won 6 of their last 7. The Red Wings have won 3 of 4. The Ducks have won 5 of 7 on the highway and Detroit has won 5 of 7 at home. Anaheim is 9-2-1, the Wings 7-4-2.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                       ($128.60)
Current Bankroll              $871.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks. Feb 15th

Only one Ivy League game is worth a peek. The pros are off until Tuesday.

2 units on Brown (+170) over Columbia

Lions and Tigers and Bears, oh my! Well, Bears and Lions anyway. The Brown Bears are 8-12 this season, but are tough at home, posting a 5-2 record. The visiting Lions are 10-10, and 5-5 when traveling. Brown has lost 3 straight, but is coming home after a long road trip. Columbia has dropped 4 of their last 5. Ivy League home underdogs are 4-2 ATS this season.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                    (1.65) units
Current Bankroll          298.35 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

PokerPalooza

We had eight runners show for our Tuesday night PokerPalooza (Wednesday edition). Bobby Dee brought chopped barbecue beef, which made a very tasty sandwich. Add a few chips and some heart shaped cupcakes that my daughter baked, and you've got a pretty good meal.

Seated around the felt in our $20 buy-in, dealer's choice limit game was Gentleman Jim, J-Dawg, Stamps, Glass Man, Farmer Harry, Dealer Larry, Bobby Dee, and moi.

We had three hands (all Omaha) that ended as 4 of a kind, but Harry's four queens out dueled J-Dawgs tens and Stamps fours, giving Harry the High Hand Jackpot, which turned a losing session into a winning one for him. I had a straight flush, but unfortunately it was in three card poker, which made it ineligible for the HHJ.

J-Dawg was the big winner, pocketing an extra $26 and I wasn't far behind with a $21 addition to the ol' bankroll. Stamps was also a winner, but Jim, Bobby, and Glass Man all had long evenings.

We had the TV on in the background and kept switching between the Baylor/Iowa St and the Texas/Mississippi basketball games. The Longhorn game was the best, with Texas hitting a long buzzer beater to put the game into overtime and then going on to win in double OT. The Baylor game wasn't nearly as exciting, but our friend Ray-Ray was sitting behind one of the goals and we kept trying to spot him. No luck though.

We should be back on our regular Tuesday night schedule next week. Fun times!

Till next time, win the flips.

Basketball Picks. Feb 14th

Only one game on the hardwood docket tonight that's worth considering.

2 units on Colorado (+130) over Arizona

The Buffs are 10-1 at home and are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games. The Wildcats are 8-1 on the highway, but only 1-3 ATS in their last 4. Home underdogs are 10-4 ATS in Pac 12 play.

Starting Bankroll            300 units
Profit/Loss                    (4.25) units
Current Bankroll          295.75 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 14th

One game on the ice looks interesting.

$30 on Phoenix (+130) over Nashville

The Coyotes have won 4 of their last 5 games and are 2-2-1 on foreign ice. The host Predators are 2-1-2 at home and have won 5 of their last 7 overall. Phoenix beat Nashville 4-0 on January 28th.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                       ($108.60)
Current Bankroll              $891.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 13th

Several college games on the docket are worth a peek.

2 units on Texas A&M (+105) over Mississippi

The Aggies are 10-4 at home and 14-9 overall. Ole Miss is 18-5 this season, but have lost 3 of 4. They have lost their last two road games by 14 and 19 points.

3 units on Houston (+150) over UTEP

The Cougars are 10-4 when sleeping in their own beds. The Miners are 13-9, but only 2-6 when traveling.

2 units on Texas (+110) over Iowa St.

The Horns are only 10-13 this season, but all 10 wins have been in Austin. The Cyclones are 16-7, with all 7 losses on the highway.

2 units on Air Force (+135) over UNLV

We're leaving the state of Texas for this match up. The Falcons are 10-1 at home this season and a perfect 4-0 at home in conference. The Runnin' Rebels are 18-6, but only 4-5 in enemy territory. In conference play they have dropped 4 of 5 road games.

Starting Bankroll           300 units
Profit/Loss                   (15.75) units
Current Bankroll         288.10 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 13th- Updated

I don't see anything that looks worth an investment on the hockey menu tonight. As I write this the Dallas/Calgary line hasn't been posted. The Stars are hot, so I may bet that one if the numbers are right. Look for an update later today if I bet it.

$20 on Dallas (+120) over Calgary

The Stars have won 4 straight. The Flames have only won 1 time in 6 home games.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                       ($88.60)
Current Bankroll              $911.40

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Update

Lightning inquired a couple days ago about how my mother was doing and also how my new site #1SportsPicks was coming along.

Initially, let me say that I really appreciate the interest! When I first wrote of my mother's cancer diagnosis last year, lightning actually took the time to give me a phone call and offer words of encouragement. Don't tell him I said so, but I think he's the tops.

Mom is doing well. She had some follow up tests done in December, and the tests indicated that her lung cancer was in remission. Good news! She still comes to work for a few hours each day. She pays the bills for the company and answers the phone in the mornings. In the afternoons she watches "Who Wants to be a Millionaire, Jeopardy, and Dr. Phil. Her next follow up will be sometime next month.

#1SportsPicks has been a mixed bag thus far. I launched the site in November and have put a lot of hours in trying to market it. I've had a little success and have picked up some minor advertising revenue. Currently I and am negotiating with one other Sports Book site. On the down side, I haven't been able to create the traffic I had hoped I would, but it is slowly increasing. I'm always open to any marketing suggestions.

I've also been disappointed with my results picking winning teams. This marks the first time I've attempted to wager on either hockey or basketball, and it's certainly been a learning experience. My bankroll is down a little in both sports, but nothing disastrous. Plus, I'm learning every day, so I expect to improve before the seasons run their course.

My offer for a free #1SportsPicks tee shirt is still open. Basically I'm asking that you include a link to my site on your blog or website. A few of you have already taken advantage (grrouchie, lightning, KenP), which I really appreciate, and each will receive a shirt once they are ready. Click here for the details if you would like to be included.

I still haven't ordered the tee shirts. I have the logo, but haven't decided on a tagline. I have a few in mind and am leaning towards one of them, but I am willing to let everyone vote if they are so inclined.

Here's what I've come up with so far;

"Odds That End Well"
"Your Bankroll's Best Friend"
"Our Picks Line Your Pockets"
"The Profit Prophet"

Which one do you like best? Any "write in" candidates?

So, that's the latest on both subjects. Thanks for asking :)

Basketball Picks, Feb 12th

A couple of games are worth a peek on the round ball menu tonight.

4 units @ 11/10 on Denver (-2) over Toronto

The Nuggets have won 9 of their last 10 games and are 33-19 overall. The Raptors are 19-32 overall, and 13-13 at home.

3 units on Michigan State (+105) over Michigan

This should be a good one on ESPN tonight. The Spartans are 20-4 this season and have an unblemished 14-0 home record. The Wolverines are 21-3, but only 5-3 on foreign soil. State has won 6 of the last 7 games played between the two in their home gym. Michigan is 0-3 ATS in their last 3, State is 5-1 in their last 6 ATS.

Starting Bankroll           300 units
Profit/Loss                   (14.90) units
Current Bankroll         288.10 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 12th

A couple of games in the rink tonight that look promising.

$20 @ 11/10 on New Jersey (-150) over Carolina
$15 on New Jersey (-1 1/2 @ +190) over Carolina

The Devils are 5-0-1 at home and have won 5 straight overall, outscoring their opponents 16-5. Carolina is a respectable 4-2-1 on the highway, but played last night. Back to back games are tough to win. The Hurricanes have won 3 of their last 4 games.

$15 @ 11/10 on Vancouver (-185) over Minnesota
$10 on Vancouver (-1 1/2 @ +160) over Minnesota

The Canucks are hot. hot. hot right now, winners in 5 straight and outscoring the enemy 17-5. Minnesota has lost 4 of their last 5 roadies, and are playing on consecutive nights. Vancouver beat the Wild 4-1 last week.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                       ($46.70)
Current Bankroll              $953.30

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 11th

One NBA match looks like a +EV opportunity.

3 units @ 11/10 on Boston (-3 1/2) over Charlotte

The Celtics have won 7 straight. The Bobcats have dropped 7 in a row and are 6-19 at home this season. Boston has won the last 4 games between the two.

Starting Bankroll           300 units
Profit/Loss                   (11.90) units
Current Bankroll         288.10 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Duck Wins WSOP Seat!

We had all 10 members of the Vegas or Bust Poker League seated around the felt last Friday, competing for two WSOP seats in Las Vegas this summer. Seated from left to right on your radio dial were Dealer Larry, Bobby Dee, Lil' Annie Okie, Stamps, Philly Phanatic, Ollie the Accountant, Big Daddy, J-Dawg, Tin Man, and yours truly, Lucki Duck.

Ollie check-called himself out of the tourney first, and managed to do so without winning a single hand. This one's going to sting a little, because Ollie was second in the league standings coming into the tournament. Bobby Dee was next to fall on his sword, followed by Big Daddy, who ran his two pair into Philly's set of twos.

Dealer Larry was next to receive his toe tag, then I knocked out J-Dawg with my TPTK. Stamps busted in fifth, but that was good enough to move him solidly into second place with only two tournaments left before the league wraps up.

Philly dropped out in fourth, then Tin Man felted his wife, Annie.

Heads up play between Tin Man and myself went back and forth for quite a while. It ended when I pushed with K-T soooted, and ran into pocket queens. A third lady on the flop sealed my fate, giving Tin Man the win.

The 9 points I gained with my second place finish clinched a seat for me. Because we eliminate each player's two lowest scores, the worst I can do in the final two tourneys is 9 points, which puts me far enough ahead that I can't be caught.

I'm pretty excited to win one of the seats. With Ms. Duck losing her job, the only way we would be able to make it to Vegas anytime soon would be to win the trip. We will use our Southwest points to buy her seat on the plane and probably stay off strip for most of the trip to keep expenses down.

This will be the second time I have won a seat to the WSOP, the last time was in 2010 when I won an online league as described here and here.

I can't wait to get out there!

Till next time, win the flips.

Hockey Picks, Feb 11th

One game on the ice tonight looks like a go.

$15 @ 11/10 on San Jose (-160) over Columbus
$10 on San Jose (-1 1/2 @ +190) over Columbus

The Sharks are 7-2-2 this season and 2-1 on the highway. Columbus has only 2 wins in 8 home games . On the season they are 3-7-2 and have been outscored by 15 goals.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                       ($21.70)
Current Bankroll              $978.30

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 10th

A couple of games in the hoops world that look promising.

3 units on Houston (-5 1/2) over Sacramento

The Rockets have won 6 of their last 8 and the Kings have dropped 8 of 10. Sacramento is playing on back to back nights, which is never easy.

2 units on Bradley (+145) over Northern Iowa

The Braves are 14-10 overall and 11-2 at home. The Panthers are 13-11, but only 2-5 on the highway.

Starting Bankroll           300 units
Profit/Loss                   (6.90) units
Current Bankroll         293.10 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 10th

There's nothing worth betting on the short NHL schedule today, so I'll sit on the sidelines and wait for a better opportunity tomorrow.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                       ($21.70)
Current Bankroll              $978.30

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 9th

Several games on the hardwood look interesting. Time is short, so no time to go into detail on each game.

3 units @ 11/10 on Philadelphia (-9) over Charlotte

The 76ers have won 3 of their last 4 and are 15-12 at home. The Boncats are 5-19 on the highway and have lost 9 of their last 10 overall.

2 units on Wake Forest (+125) over Florida St.

2 units on Texas (+160) over Oklahoma St.

2 units on Richmond (+130) over St. Louis

2 units on Oakland (+125) over San Deigo St.

Starting Bankroll                300 units
Profit/Loss                      (10.10) units
Current Bankroll            289.90 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 9th

One match up looks promising on today's schedule.

$15 @ 11/10 on Ottawa over Winnepeg

The Senators have outscored their opponents by 9 goals this season. The Jets are minus 8 net goals.

Starting Bankroll            $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                        ($6.70)
Current Bankroll               $993.30

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 8th

Several games on tap tonight look good, both pro and college.

3 units @ 11/10 on Cleveland (-6 1/2) over Orlando

The Cavs have won 5 of their last 7 games. The Magic have been anything but magical on the court lately, losing 11 straight and are 1-10 ATS.

2 units on Virginia Military (+150) over NC-Ashville

The Keydets are 7-3 at home this season and 11-10 overall. The Bulldogs are 5-8 on the highway, but are on a 6 game winning streak.

6 units @ 11/10 on Utah St (-6) over San Jose St.

The Aggies are 16-5 this season and 6-2 in enemy territory. They have beaten the Spartans 16 of the last 17 times the two have met. San Jose is 0-7 since suspending their leading scorer (Kinney).

3 units @ 11/10 on San Antonio (-6) over Detroit

The Spurs have reeled off 11 straight wins and are 17-9 on the road. The Pistons are 13-14 at home and have lost 5 of their last 6 overall.

Starting Bankroll              300 units
Profit/Loss                     (13.60) units
Current Bankroll            286.40 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Hockey Picks, Feb 8th

I don't see anything worth betting on tonight's abbreviated NHL schedule, so I'll sit on the bench today.

Starting Bankroll           $1,000.00
Profit/Loss                      ($6.70)
Current Bankroll             $993.30

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!

Basketball Picks, Feb 7th

Quite a few basketball games look like good prospects.

3 units @ 11/10 on Florida International (-5 1/2) over Florida Atlantic

International is 7-3 at home and 8-6-1 ATS this season. Atlantic is 3-9 on the highway and 7-11 ATS.

2 units on Texas A&M (+135) over Missouri

The Aggies are 9-4 at home this season. The Tigers are 16-5, but 1-5 on foreign soil. College Station is a tough venue.

4 units @ 11/10 on Arizona St (-3 1/2) over California

State is 14-2 at home and 11-6 ATS this season. Cal is 3-4 on th road and 7-12 ATS.

3 units @ 11/10 on CS Northridge (-1) over UC Irvine

Northridge is only 5-4 at home this season, but Irvine has struggled when traveling, posting 3 wins in 13 tries.

3 units @ 11/10 on Furman (-1) over UNC Greensboro

Furman is 5-5 when eating home cookin'. Greensboro is a perfect 0-9 on the road this season and only 6-11 ATS.

3 units @ 11/10 on UT Martin (-1) over Eastern Illinois

Martin is 5-5 at home while Eastern is 2-10 on the highway. 

3 units @ 11/10 on Northern Arizona (-4 1/2) over Portland State

Northern Arizona is 5-5 when sleeping in their own beds. State is 0-10 on foreign soil this season.

3 units @ 11/10 on Montana State (-4) over North Dakota

State is 8-2 at home while North Dakota is exactly the opposite, posting a 2-8 road record this season.

3 units @ 11/10 on Denver (-6) over Chicago

The Nuggets are 21-3 at home and have won 7 straight.

Starting Bankroll              300 units
Profit/Loss                     (21.70) units
Current Bankroll            278.30 units

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at your own risk.

Good luck!