The topic of sports is a powerful thing. It provides us with an ability like no other. Sports allows us to come together as a community and to just have a good time. I have had the privilege to discuss such a powerful topic over the course of the year, so here is a recap and update on every issue and event that was discussed in Kickin’ it With Kellan Grant.

In the first issue, L.A. was in desperate need of an NFL team. In such a rich market, it seemed absolutely absurd for this city to be missing a football team for over 20 years. Now, it seems like an NFL team’s relocation to this city is set to happen within the next two years, with the Rams, Chargers, and Raiders discussing the move.

In issue two, it was discussed that in MLB, Clayton Kershaw, a pitcher, deserved to win the MVP award. In November, the voters got it right and Kershaw was rewarded with the prestigious award, despite his position, and the league’s reluctance in the past to award it to a pitcher.

In issue three, it was said that Kobe Bryant was dragging the Lakers down. The only way for the Lakers to ever return to their former glory was if Kobe Bryant retired, or left, and his payroll was taken away from the Lakers. Shortly after this story, Bryant tore his rotator cuff and he was determined to be out for the season. However, he is still on the team, so the problem has yet to be resolved.

In issue four, Landon Donovan was nearing his retirement, and soccer fans all over were disheartened. In Donovan’s final game he won the MLS Cup and left the field as a champion.

In issue five, we mourned the loss of an iconic sports figure. Stuart Scott, a long time ESPN reporter, had lost his life to cancer. It was a sad moment in sports, but fans have since learned the value of life, and to never give up hope.
In issue six, we looked back at a stunning moment in sports; something that was deemed the name “Miracle on Ice.” We remembered an unlikely moment where the country came together as one and rooted our national hockey team to a victory that appeared to be impossible to the normal eye.

In issue seven, we saw a UCLA basketball team that had proven everyone wrong, and had worked their way into the Sweet Sixteen in March Madness. UCLA then lost their next game, but nothing took away from the fact that they proved their worthiness in the tournament.

In the eighth, and most previous issue, the Wisconsin Badgers and Duke Blue Devils competed in a wonderful college basketball championship game, a match that the Blue Devils would go on to win in exciting fashion. However, during this game, it became apparent that college basketball was flawed in the way that they allowed athletes to enter the NBA after merely one season at their respective schools. Nothing has changed, or even been discussed regarding this issue in college basketball.

It has been a wonderful year in sports: a year that has brought people together time and time again. I would like to thank you for allowing me to share this time with you as we discussed sports and simply had a good time. Whether or not this column returns next year, it has been a lot of fun. Thank you for this opportunity and a special farewell to all of you.