Tag Archive for: NCAA

Curtin and Union Remain Unbeaten….IPZ Partners with NY Titans….Pop Singer Capri signs with IPZ….IPZ signs Deuce Jones for NIL Purposes

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Curtin and Union Remain Unbeaten in MLS Action

Jim Curtin, and the Philadelphia Union came up big this past weekend as the Union battled back for a 2-1 road win at Nashville SC to extend its unbeaten start in MLS play.  

Curtin credited his players for fighting to the final whistle of every match and finding ways to win.  

“My players have a ton of heart,” Curtin said. “They’re never out of a game. They’ll play to the final whistle. From minute 1 to minute 90, anything can happen, and we stick with things and we fight. Is it always perfect? No. But at the same time, I think we put in the work for our fans, for the Philadelphia Union badge, for the city and these guys give everything. That commitment is kind of ingrained in our roster.”  

The Philadelphia Union, look to extend their unbeaten streak to 7 games, as their Eastern Conference road trip continues with a matchup with Atlanta United FC on Sunday, April 14th. Kickoff is set for 2:30PM ET with the action on FOX and free on Apple TV.  

IPZ Partner with NY Titans

The New York Titans, a fast-growing men’s and youth developmental soccer club in Brooklyn, NY, has signed with IPZ for marketing and sponsorship opportunities.

The Titans men’s team competes in the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL), the largest pro-development league in North America. The club also fields several youth teams in different age groups.

The club was founded during the Covid pandemic by Ukrainian actress Olga Lezhneva, who moved to Brooklyn in 2014.

You can learn more about the club here: NY Titans, and follow them on Instagram here: NY Titans FC Instagram

Pop Singer Capri signs with IPZ

Nineteen-year-old Capri Everitt, who famously sang 80 national anthems in 80 countries during a one year period when she was 11 years old, has signed with IPZ for marketing opportunities. 

The pop singer, who hails from Vancouver, Canada, recently performed at an international soccer tournament in Dallas, and has performed national anthems at many professional sporting events in North America.  

With more than 1 million followers on social media, Capri has strived to raise awareness for orphaned and abandoned children around the world. In 2019, she was cited by the Huffington Post as “one of 16 girls who changed the world.”  

You can learn more about Capri and experience her music here: Capri Everitt

IPZ signs Deuce Jones for NIL Purposes

Deuce Jones, an all-State guard with College Achieve Public Charter School in Asbury Park, NJ, has signed with IPZ for NIL opportunities.  

Jones, a Trenton, NJ native, is considered one of the top players in New Jersey and is currently ranked seventh overall in the state and has an overall 3-star rating by 247 Sports.  

Jones will begin his college career in September at La Salle University in Philadelphia. Deuce recently led College Achieve to an NJ Group 1 Title, averaging 21 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3 steals throughout his senior campaign.  

“Deuce is a player who’s best basketball is ahead of him,” said College Achieve coach Dave Boff. “He showed tremendous growth this year and will only continue to get better as he moves on to La Salle.”  

Follow Deuce on Instagram here: Deuce Jones Instagram  

Curtin to be L.E.A.D.’s Ambassador…Dougherty Howard Shines in Return to Orlando…Big Decision for Big Cliff…Curtin Featured in Verizon Commercial

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Curtin to be L.E.A.D.’s Ambassador

Jim Curtin, the head coach of the Philadelphia Union, will be the National Sports Ambassador for L.E.A.D, Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence, the organization announced today.  

Curtin, a recognized leader in soccer in the United States and in youth development, will help L.E.A.D. advance its mission of teaching school age children about the dangers of drugs and violence.  

“Jim’s track record speaks for itself as both a leader and role model,” said Nick De Mauro, chief executive of L.E.A.D. “An amazing family man, Jim’s children are exactly the ages of the students we reach and his ability to both work with children and his respect for law enforcement make him the perfect person to lend support to our program. We look forward to hitting the ground running with Jim.”  

“When I learned about the L.E.A.D. program I was thrilled to lend my support,” said Curtin. “You can’t argue with the benefits of teaching young children about the dangers of drugs and violence, and I look forward to using my platform in the MLS to spread the word. Every team in our league works with young students, and we can all learn from the curriculum L.E.A.D. employs.”  

Read the entire announcement here: L.E.A.D PRESS RELEASE

Dougherty Howard Shines in Return to Orlando

Meggie Dougherty Howard, midfielder for Angel City FC, produced an outstanding performance in her return to her home state and former club Orlando Pride, as Angel City FC was able to pick up a valuable road point with a 1-1 draw.

Angel City FC controlled the game from the opening whistle, with Dougherty Howard’s incredible distribution throughout the match. Angel City FC finally broke through in the 53rd minute after Dougherty Howard drew a foul in the box resulting in a penalty kick for Angel City FC. Angel City FC converted the penalty to take a much deserved 1–0 lead.

A late Orlando goal spoiled the chance for an Angel City FC road victory, but it was a hard earned and important point on the road for Dougherty Howard and the club.

Angel City FC and Dougherty Howard are back in action this Saturday, March 30, at 3:30 PM EST, away against the Kansas City Current. That match will be available on ESPN and ESPN+.

Big Decision for Big Cliff

When, after four years at Rutgers University, Clifford “Big Cliff” Omoruyi entered college basketball’s “transfer portal,” both the accolades and concerns started appearing on social media from Scarlet Knight fans. 

The great majority wished him well and felt he deserved the opportunity. Others expressed concern about Rutgers having two big time recruits coming to the school next year, but losing its defensive standout in the middle.  

In the new world of NIL, Cliff deserves the opportunity every other college athlete has. ESPN immediately published a story saying Cliff was the 2nd most attractive player in the transfer portal:  

“2. Clifford Omoruyi, 6-11, C, Sr., Rutgers Scarlet Knights  

Among the truly elite post defenders in college basketball. Omoruyi was named to the Big Ten’s All-Defensive team after averaging 10.4 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.9 blocks for one of the best defenses in the country.”  

Dozens of schools – all major programs – have reached out about Cliff, a guy who has raised nearly $100,000 for the Salvation Army Books & Basketball program in Newark, has put together a 3.8 GPA while earning a degree in Information Technology, and been a model student and teammate on campus.  

NIL is a good thing…and great guys like Big Cliff deserve to reap its rewards. It would be better if Clifford and other F-1 Visa students had the opportunity to earn money just like other college athletes, as we have written in the past (Link) . Our only hope is that we don’t have to travel “too far” to watch our friend on a new campus next year.  

Jim Curtin Featured in Verizon: Next Level Commercial Series

The Philadelphia Union head coach first showed off his tactical insight in the Verizon: Next Level- Tactics. In the commercial, Curtin gives the fans a look into the importance of tactical preparation for a match.  

Curtin most recently was featured in Verizon: Next Level- Technology in the Game. In this segment, Curtin discusses how the Philadelphia Union use innovations in technology and sports science to try and create a competitive edge over their opponents.  

Curtin and the Philadelphia Union are coming off a strong road win against the Portland Timbers in MLS action and now begin preparation for their home match up against Minnesota United on March 30th, with kickoff set for 2:00 PM EST at Subaru Park in Chester, Pa.  

Whitney Shines….Dougherty Howard and Angel City FC to Kick-off Season….Omoruyi Earns Big-10 Honors….A Brother Lends a Hand

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Whitney Shines in Second Game

Newest KK Skrljevo addition, Kahlil Whitney, was a key contributor Tuesday night in their 107-87 victory. Whitney shot 6-11 (54%) from the field, dropping 13 points, while adding 2 assists, 4 total rebounds and 3 steals, in only his second appearance for the Croatian club.  

Skrljevo and Kahlil return to action Monday vs Furnir at 2PM EST.  

Dougherty Howard and Angel City FC set to Kick-off NWSHL Season this Weekend

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season kicks off this weekend, with a marque match-up between Meggie Dougherty Howard’s Angel City FC and expansion team Bay FC. Kick-off at Angle City FC’s BMO Stadium in Los Angeles is set for Sunday, March 17, at 7:30 pm EST.

Angle City FC, with a roster boasting both seasoned veterans and rising stars, is hoping to build off of a solid 2023 campaign. Meggie Dougherty-Howard, a dynamic midfielder, is in her first season with Angle City FC and expects to play a key role for the Los Angeles based club in 2024. ”

“I’m very excited to begin the 2024 season.” said Dougherty. “LA is a fantastic sports city with smart and enthusiastic fans. I’m thrilled to be a part of it and feel the energy of the stadium this weekend.”

Omoruyi Earns Multiple Big-10 Honors

Clifford “Big Cliff” Omoruyi’s exceptional defensive prowess this season has garnered him a spot on the Big Ten All-Defensive Team, for a second straight season. This comes as no surprise, as Omoruyi was top three in the country in blocks per game all season averaging around 2.8 – 3.3 per game, and amassing 91 total blocks in 31 games played. He also added 21 steals to go along with that.  

In addition, Omoruyi has also received Big Ten Honorable Mention, and was a part of the Big Ten Third team last season, showcasing his consistency throughout his older years at Rutgers. Omoruyi averaged 10.7 Points per game, 8.5 Rebounds per game, and shot 52% from the field in the 2023-2024 campaign.  

A Brother Lends a Hand

Clifford “It had been four years since Cliff Omoruyi had seen his brother Fred, or any member of his family in Nigeria.  

Muhammad and Felyce Oliver have become Cliff’s family here in the States, but The Big 10 Network was there to capture a touching family reunion as Cliff played his final game at Rutgers. Watch Below.

Whitney Accepts Offer….Curtin’s Union Advance in CONCACAF….Omoruyi and Olivers Tight Bond

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Kahlil Whitney Accepts Offer with Klub Skrljevo

Kahlil Whitney, who signed last week with IPZ, has accepted an offer from Klub Skrljevo (Klub Skrljevo Team Website) in the Croation Premier League, the club announced early Monday. IPZ worked with Players Group Italia to secure the offer for Kahlil.  

Whitney spent the last three seasons in the G-Leauge, appearing in 24 games for his hometown team, the Windy City Bulls as well as the Rio Grande Valley Vipers.  

“The teams at Players Group and IPZ feel this is an excellent opportunity for Kahlil to showcase his talents,” said IPZ Managing Partner Robert Zito. “Our hope is he can be a vital cog to lead Skrljevo to a great run in the playoffs.”  

Curtin’s Philadelphia Union Advance in CONCACAF Champions Cup

In a thrilling 120-minute showdown, Jim Curtin and the Philadelphia Union showcased resilience and determination, ultimately clinching victory with a dramatic 94th-minute winner by Mikael Uhre, securing a 6-5 aggregate series win over Deportivo Saprissa. Tuesday night’s Concacaf Champions Cup clash was a spectacle, featuring six goals, intense VAR reviews, and the Union enduring extra time playing down a man. Yet, echoing the spirit of their city and Curtin, the Union fought relentlessly, advancing to face one of the oldest and most prominent clubs in Mexico, C.F. Pachuca, in the next round.

Curtin, following a lackluster performance, was brief in his post-game comments, simply stating, “Survive and advance.”

Set to kick off the Round of 16 in front of their passionate home crowd, the Philadelphia Union will take the field for leg 1 of a 2 leg aggregate series at Subaru Park on Tuesday, March 5th, with kick-off scheduled for 7:00 PM EST.

The Tight Bond between Big Cliff and Muhammad Oliver

Our newsletter has been filled with numerous stories about the way Rutgers star Clifford Omoruyi has given back to the community during his college career.  

But where did Cliff learn about the right things to do?  

Check out his story, from the Salvation Army, about Cliff’s mentor and guardian – Muhammad Oliver. 

 

Whitney Signs with IPZ…. Okert Traded to Minnesota…. Cliff Second in the Nation in Blocks Per Game

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Kahlil Whitney Signs with IPZ

Kahlil Whitney, a former Roselle Catholic star and five-star recruit, 2019 McDonald’s All-American and co-MVP of the Iverson Classic after scoring 39 points, has signed with IPZ.  

After his Roselle Catholic career and a multi-year stint in the G-League, Kahlil has his sights set on a productive career overseas. IPZ is working with Players Group Italia to assist Kahlil in fulfilling his goals.  

“I met Kahlil when he was a senior in high school,” said Robert Zito, Managing Partner of IPZ. “A mutual friend introduced us and I was immediately impressed with his presence, not to mention his athletic ability. Given the right opportunity to showcase his talents, Kahlil will be a force.”  

Steven Okert Traded to the Minnesota Twins

Last week, Steven Okert was traded to the Minnesota Twins from the Miami Marlins in exchange for infielder/outfielder Nick Gordon.

Now entering his seventh year in the league, Okert posted a 4.45 ERA out of the bullpen for the Marlins during the 2023 season. He also posted the highest strikeout rate (29.6%) and lowest walk rate (9.7%) of his career.

He’ll join the Twins bullpen as one of the top left-handed options for next season.

Cliff Omoruyi Second in the Nation in Blocks Per Game

Cliff Omoruyi has been dominating the defensive glass all season. Currently, he is second in the nation in blocks per game, averaging 3.3 in 24 games played. In recent action, Cliff has amassed 20 blocks in his last 5 games, and 30 in his last 10 games.  

The senior has helped lead Rutgers to an overall record of 14-11, and turned the Scarlet Knights into a defensive powerhouse, as they hold a 91.1 Adjusted Defensive rating, which lands them second in the KenPom defensive rankings currently.  

Omoruyi and Rutgers face their toughest opponent for the second time this season as they hit the road to square off against #3 ranked Purdue on Thursday in Indiana.  

 

Omoruyi’s Big Game Vs. Seton Hall + Omoruyi Eclipses 1000 Points + Oleynik in MMA Action Tonight

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Omoruyi’s Big Game Vs. Seton Hall

The in-state rivalry game between Rutgers and Seton Hall was a highlight reel for Cliff Omoruyi, as the Scarlet Knights defeated the Pirates, 70-63. Big Cliff was dominant, registering 13 rebounds and 7 blocks, while also adding 11 points. Omoruyi is currently leading the Big Ten in blocks, averaging 3.8 per game. He also became the first Rutgers player since 2019 to receive the Joe Calabrese Game MVP award as the best player in the Garden State Hardwood Classic. Aided by the return of Cliff’s roommate, senior forward Mawot Mag who grabbed 8 rebounds, Cliff and the Rutgers defense held the Pirates to 36.1 percent shooting from the floor. Rutgers will look to build on the win when it hosts LIU Saturday at 1 PM. 

Omoruyi Eclipses 1000 Points

It was a memorable night for another reason for Rutgers Senior Cliff Omoruyi. With about 12 minutes left in the first half, Omoruyi received the ball in the post, made a nice spin move and finished on a mid-range jump hook which marked his 1,000th point for Rutgers Men’s Basketball. Cliff became the 46th player in the program’s history to accomplish that feat, joining recent former teammates Geo Baker and Ron Harper Jr.

Oleynik in MMA Action Tonight

MMA legend Alexey Oleynik (a.k.a. “The Boa Constrictor”) will step into the cage tonight to take on experienced Brazilian fighter Fernando Rodrigues Jr. (13-8-0) at RCC 17. Oleynik, known for his variety of submissions, is looking to secure his 61st MMA victory tonight which would rank him #10 all-time in victories in MMA history.  

Meggie Dougherty Howard Signs With San Diego, Rutgers Ranked #23 In AP Poll, Ithiel Horton scores 30

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Quinn Sullivan, Union Win Eastern Conference Championship, Cliff Omoruyi & 16 Handles To Host Fall Semester Party… Cliff Named to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award Watch List

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Rutgers Star Cliff Omoruyi Partners With 16 Handles

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