Tuesday Randomness

Tuesday Randomness

Here at Experimental Nonsense, we thrive on the random.  OK, that didn't make much sense, but lets proceed...with some randomness.

So I've been thinking about Michael Phelps coming out of retirement for a swim meet next weekend.  I have to say I thought it was unusual with everything that has transpired over the last year and half.  Although, can I really be all that surprised after the back and forth he played before 2012?

After the London Olympics, I really took Phelps at his word that he was done.  He was getting into golf and it seemed like he had a plan in mind for his future.  On top of it all, he's accomplished more than anyone in the pool, has the most Olympic medals of all time, and doesn't need to prove anything to anyone.  He showed that in 2012 by owning Lochte.  What shaped up to be a rivalry didn't really pan out, did it Ryan? 

So it begs the question:  why come back now? 

Is it the potential money from endorsements or time in the spotlight?  I don't think so.  Subway will always want to be in business with Phelps.  I think he likes being the center of attention no matter how awkward he comes off in front of a camera.  But when it comes down to it, I think he was smart with his money. 

Is he just an elite athlete that thrives on competition…that needs this kind adrenaline rush?  I could believe that, but why?  Why risk diminishing your athletic reputation with a bad showing…or disappointing results.  Now I know that next week's swim meet doesn't necessarily mean Phelps is coming back for another Olympic run.  Heck, if he finishes last in all of his races, maybe he says to himself, "Wow, maybe I don't want to do this.  Maybe I should re-evaluate everything." 

But I do not think that is going to happen.  I believe this is the first step on his mission to Brazil.  He needs the next two years to train on his new events and become competitive with the younger generation of swimmers.  I think he's in for the long haul regardless of how next week turns out or any of the other world-class swim meets he enters.  This is the start.

Now, here is my theory of why he's coming back.  Yes, Phelps loves competition, he loves swimming, and most of all, he's REALLY good at it.  He's been the epitome of greatness since he started and I salute him for that.  I think the reason behind this comeback is Phelps' coach, Bob Bowman.  Bowman is an acclaimed swimming coach because of Michael Phelps.  Bowman gets world-class swimmers into his program because of Michael Phelps.  Bowman gets exposure every four years because of Michael Phelps.  Lets just come out and say it, Michael Phelps is good for Bob Bowman. 

It's no secret that swimming increases in popularity in Olympic years and swim teams benefit from that.  And credit is due to Phelps for assisting with that movement.  But Bowman is the man behind the man.  Even when it was announced Phelps was coming out of retirement, who spoke for him and explained what was going to happen…Bowman.  Bowman has been a mentor and father figure for Phelps and that obviously has been helpful.  I just have to wonder who this comeback is really intended for…Phelps or Bowman.   

Here are some other interesting tidbits for today:

More NFL Mock Drafts to review.  We're getting close to Draft Day so here are some predictions from CBS Sports.

The NBA Playoffs are set.  Now onto the Big Show.  Who are the teams that can go all the way?  Take a look.

The University of California has their new men's basketball coach.  Cuonzo Martin has accepted the job out west.  Martin was the head coach at Tennessee for three years and did a great job in leading the Vols to the tourney this year.  He had to capitalize on his marketability so this isn't a surprise.  I'm sure money had something to do with it, but remember, Martin was a finalist for the Marquette gig a couple weeks ago too.  Congratulations to him.  I wonder who Tennessee calls to replace him?

Sounds like there will be another Bowl Game this winter.

Excuse me, Mr. Bruckheimer, Kenny Loggins is on Line 1.

The act of buying a car is changing.  Is the consumer smarter than the salesman?

Speaking of which…I need to decide my next car.