Sports and a New Year filled with hopes and possibilities

As we bid farewell to 2014 it's time take stock of the Bay Area sports scene, and enjoy a Happy New Year picture from tennis champ Rafa Nadal! That one is for all my tennis team friends. While the local news lately has all been about the dysfunctional 49ers, it's nice to remember they are the exemption and not the norm. The Warriors still own the best record in the NBA 25-5 after winning again last night, blowing out the lowly 76ers 126-86.

Take notes, 49ers owner Jed York. If you truly want to win with class, watch Rafa on the tennis court and behind the microphone at press conferences. Humility is class and like respect it is earned with actions and behavior. Even after suffering grueling injuries, Nadal remains a true gentleman on and off the court. Much like the Giants who won their third world series in five years, Golden State is dealing with injuries without making excuses. The Dubs are playing unselfish basketball for first year coach Steve Kerr who like Bruce Bochy is urging his team to play for each other. Local fans whether die hard or casual are reacting much like they did with the Giants, wanting to support the young players forced into starting positions and rising to the occasion with a little help from their teammates.  At a holiday party last night, 9 year Sebastian was thrilled to see 11 of the 12 healthy Warriors play and score. Now that's the true meaning of a deep team, even without centers Andrew Bogut and Festus Ezeli. The Raiders ended the season much like they started it, with a blowout loss to Denver and a 3-13 record. The good news is that interim coach Tony Sparano who finished 3-9 did show the team they could win big games, especially the two against Kansas City and the 49ers. While owner Mark Davis is interviewing for the position, Sparano has his player's support, if that counts for anything. In the cruel business of sports, it seems like only the voice of owners and general managers count. The Sharks are also swimming in murky waters. having lost three straight. Coach Todd McLellan admitted his team was not playing hungry as they lost to Vancouver last night 3-1 and find themselves at 19-13-5 doubtful of even reaching the playoffs in 2015. They of course need a chance to redeem themselves for 2014's historic collapse after  blowing a 3-0 lead in a seven game series to the hated division rival LA Kings. The sharks play tonight in Anaheim for pride and what the new year can bring, hope for all. Happy New Year!