Press Box: FBI investigating Rutgers basketball case
The FBI has launched an investigation into possible extortion surrounding the Rutgers basketball video scandal that has cost head coach Mike Rice and athletic director Tim Pernetti their jobs.
At the center of the FBI investigation is the former director of player development under Rice, Eric Murdock. It was Murdock who provided the video showing Rice kicking and shoving players, throwing basketballs at players and taunting them with homophobic language.
According to the New York Times, Murdock approached the university in December asking for $950,000. The university declined to pay Murdock who subsequently released the video, setting off a firestorm at Rutgers.
On Friday, Murdock filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit against Rutgers, claiming he was let go for being a whistle-blower. The university said it did not renew his contract after the 2012 season because he left Rice's basketball camp early and without permission, among other factors.
GOLF
---Three-time champion Phil Mickelson played a Masters practice round at the Augusta National Golf Club with former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.
Rice made history when she and South Carolina financier Darla Moore were the first women invited to join Augusta last August.
Rice's final putt of the day was a 40-footer on the 18th hole for a par. With her 17 handicap, it was a net birdie.
NHL
---The Winter Classic outdoor game that was canceled because of the lockout will be played on Jan. 1, 2014, at Michigan Stadium, the NHL announced.
The Toronto Maple Leafs will face the host Red Wings in the rescheduled game at the football venue called the "Big House."
-- The Nashville Predators recalled forward Austin Watson from the Milwaukee Admirals of the AHL, and the 18th overall pick in the 2010 Entry Draft was expected to make his NHL debut Sunday night.
AUTO RACING
---IndyCar has postponed the Indianapolis 500 rookie orientation program scheduled for April 11 due to the forecast of inclement weather.
A.J. Allmendinger, Conor Daly, Carlos Munoz and Tristan Vautier are scheduled to participate once the program is rescheduled.
