Lebron calls copyright on Alabama football series ‘Shop Talk’
On April 2, the University of Alabama teased a video for a series from the Alabama football program called “Shop Talk” where former receiver Julio Jones and coach Nick Saban are set to have roundtable discussions about various topics while sitting in a barbershop. After viewing the video clip, basketball player LeBron James alleged that the duo had infringed upon copyrights of his own show called “The Shop” where his guests also follow the same guidelines within a barbershop setting. According to USA Today, Uninterrupted business head Josh Tarnow sent a letter to the University of Alabama stating the similarity in concepts, explaining that he believed “Shop Talk” infringed on the copyright of “The Shop.”
ETSU suspends coach Randy Sanders
USA Today stated that Randy Sanders has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation of an undisclosed violation of university policy as of April 3. Sanders, former Tennessee quarterback and assistant coach, was hired as a coach for East Tennessee State in December. This new job came after the university relaunched the program in the 2015 season after a 12-year-long losing streak following the program being shut down for financial reasons in 2003. Sanders replaced former coach Carl Torbush, who retired.
Dolphins to reveal new uniforms on April 19
In February, the Miami Dolphins announced that the team was making changes to their uniform. CEO Tom Garfinkel told Dolphin Wire these new uniforms will be revealed on April 19. Jerseys, pants and helmets will be redesigned. However, the team logo isn’t expected to undergo a drastic change.
Mavericks and Jazz players suspended for violating anti-drug policy
Nerlens Noel, Dallas Mavericks center and Thabo Sefolosha, Utah Jazz forward, have both been put on a five game suspension without pay for violating the NBA/NBPA ’s anti-drug program as of April 3. According to ESPN, this violation comes after a third positive drug test for marijuana use. Noel’s suspension began immediately with his first game last Tuesday against the Portland Trail Blazers. Sefolosha is currently out for a knee injury and will serve his suspension once he is physically able to play.
Robert Griffin III to sign with Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome confirmed on April 4 that Robert Griffin III, a recently injured quarterback, will be signed with the Ravens following a successful practice two weeks ago. Griffin suffered a serious knee injury in the 2012 season and had a long recovery. After the Cleveland Browns released him from their roster in 2016, Griffin became an unsigned free-agent. According to NBC Sports, Griffin will be placed as a backup behind their current quarterback Joe Flacco.