Sports Redux: Motivation

If you were worried about the Celtics seeking motivation for a repeat, worry no more. Rajon Rondo blogged: "We have to repeat, because we have to go back to the White House to meet Obama."

It may not have been the biggest win anyone recorded in the nation last night, but the Celtics took a step towards that next White House visit. They recovered from their stinker in Indiana to beat a Houston team that's become a chic pick to go deep into the playoffs, in a nice, balanced 103-99 win. The big star was Ray Allen, who seems to have shaken off his early shooting troubles. Ray shot 11-of-15 for 29 points. Garnett had 11 rebounds and Pierce a nice 13/9.

The defense was back, even though Houston almost became the first team to hit 100 against the C's this year. Perk held Yao Ming to eight points on 4-of-14 shooting, and new Rocket Ron Artest put the fans in the first few rows in mortal danger -- of being hit by a flying basketball, as Ron chucked a 3-for-16 night up.

The C's make their first visit to see the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight. Except for having boring uniforms, a bad name, and the blood of Seattle sports fans all over their hands, there's a lot to like about this Oklahoma City team. Oklahoma is trying to convince itself that this game is a Ray Allen homecoming.

It feels like a month since the Bruins last played, but they're back on the ice tonight against Toronto, who peppered the B's in their first meeting 4-2. If the Bruins need motivation, they can start with the fact that neither Tim Thomas nor Phil Kessel appears on the All-Star ballot.

Without any fanfare, histrionics or gorilla suits, the Red Sox and Theo Epstein agreed to keep working together. Terms were not disclosed. Sadly, the Mike Timlin era is over at Fenway, as Theo said the Sox would not renew his contract. Thanks for everything over all the years, Mike.