I GOT THE “JUICE”

“J.U.I.C.E.” is a nickname that I received years and years ago from an old coach of mine. This nickname is what my peers, family and loved ones refer to me as. Over time, “J.U.I.C.E.” not only became who I was, but what I possessed, figuratively. The acronym meaning, “Just understand I conquer everything,” became used as a motivational phrase, which I have trademarked and periodically used during my time as an athlete.

I am a young man with many talents, which I intend to leave as a legacy and pass on the wisdom I have assessed throughout my life. Among those talents have been my optimism and longevity to analyze, coach, predict and to play multiple sports at a high level. Now, as the sports editor of the Houston Home Journal, “JUICE” will serve yet another purpose. I will share the “JUICE,” from the sports that I love, with you.

I got the J.U.I.C.E. — According to multiple sources, WNBA superstar and two-time US Olympic basketball gold medalist, Brittney Griner has pleaded guilty to drug charges in a Russian courtroom. The United States’ state departments have classified Griner, as wrongfully detained, while she faces up to 10 years in a Russian prison.

Many people think that Brittney Griner is being used as an example and in other words —she may be looked at, as a political pawn to many politicians. The next hearing for Griner is set for July 14, but Griner has remained consistent in not giving many statements to unknown reporters and journalist. A Russian prosecutor accused her of smuggling less than a gram of cannabis oil in her luggage.

Though, Britney Griner has reporter that she did not intent to import the drugs into the country, Russians believe she was intentional. Is this what happens to Olympians? Is fighting for Y(our) country worth it? Are politicians ashamed of Griner and her decisions? Are their personal beliefs that are keeping Brittney Griner from being released? Whatever your opinion is on this situation, never let personal beliefs stop you from doing what is right.

Shifting gears from the previous topics and discussion — Deshaun Watson signed a 230 million dollar deal with the Cleveland Browns, after leaving the Houston Texans. The Browns are only set to pay Watson a million dollars over the course of his first year, in Cleveland. This means the majority of his money will be earned during the backend of his contract. The Browns front office constructed this contract with the NFL’s possible suspension of Watson, in mind. This creates more leverage in the future for Deshaun Watson. Therefore, if suspended Watson will not lose much of his new contract income, because players only get paid during the football season.

Watson was accused of sexually assaulting 24 women, but was never proven guilty. Two Texas courts could not find enough evidence, nor was Watson charged with any crime. With this being said, there have been a lot of speculations around the league about the length of his suspension. If no guilt of crime was found, should he still be suspended buy the NFL? Though, Watson did not win the court of public appeal — He is in fact, innocent until proven guilty.

Check back in the next sports edition for my editor’s column, I Got The “JUICE,” as I will tease more of the world’s entertaining sports stories.

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