Good Reads: Sunday Best

Olympics

Boston Globe says both security and hopes are high.

Gil LeBreton of the Fort Worth Star Telegram says Americans wopn't be popular in Athens.

Mike Bianchi isn't rooting for the Americans.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has a heartwarming story.

Jeff Jacobs talks to some U.S. women's hoop players for a good column.

Bill Plaschke compares these to the first Olympics.

The Washington Post on Michael Phelps. Just up the Beltway, the Baltimore Sun weighs in too.

It's Phil Sheridan's turn to weigh in on safety concerns.

Akron's Tom Reed writes about sports as a unifying force.

The Charlotte Observer says C.J. Hunter's role as a strength and conditioning coach at NC State is a black mark on that school's athletic deparment.

Baseball

Gordon Edes' notes has this classic line.

A revealing statement
Sox manager Terry Francona on Kevin Youkilis, who was dubbed the "Greek God of Walks" in "Moneyball": "I've seen Youkilis in the shower, and I wouldn't call him the Greek god of anything."

The Globe's Nick Cafardo revisits whether to resign Pedro.

Kevin Millar is never one to turn down an opportunity to talk.

Jay Mariotti looks at Maddux's ho-hum reaction to 300.

Bernie Miklasz on the Larry Walker trade.

Miscellaneous

The Washington Post has the story about former James Madison star Clayton Matthews battling paralysis.

Dan LeBetard is not surprisingly pro-player.

This is disappointing news.

This story reaffirms my belief in people.

Looks like Fran Dunphy is getting offered the La Salle job.