Sports Blog » Deal of the Day

Although most Americans do not realize it, soccer (or football, as most of the world calls it) is the world’s most played sport. The passion that many countries have for the game borders on fanatical and can be downright frightening to people who have never seen it firsthand.

The top soccer leagues in the world — like the English Premier League, Spain’s La Liga, and Italy’s Serie A — have an atmosphere that would make the Oakland Raiders famous Black Hole look like an after school day care.

All of this energy reaches a boiling point every four years during an illustrious event simply known as the World Cup. During the World Cup, 32 of the best footballing nations square off in a tournament to play for the right to call themselves the best country in the world at soccer.

This summer the worlds 19th World Cup will take place in South Africa, which is historic because it will be the first time the tournament will be hosted by an African nation. While the event is still half a year away, people are already getting excited.

To help get you ready for the historic occasion, I have pulled together some great deals on World Cup 2010 gear. This officially licensed memorabilia comes courtesy of World Soccer Shop and is this week’s Deal of the Day.

The Official FIFA World Cup 2010 Logo Soccer Hooded Sweatshirt by Adidas has the official 2010 World Cup logo on the front and the Adidas logo on the back. Available in sizes medium through double-extra large, it is currently listed for $49.99 but will not ship until Mid-January.

This Adidas World Cup 2010 Jabulani 3D Effect Soccer Ball is currently being sold in size 3 or 5 for only $29.99. From its product description: “Jabulani means to celebrate in Zulu, one of the 11 languages of South Africa, and the design of the Jabulani has 11 colors to honor those 11 languages, in addition to the 11 communities of South Africa and and the 11 players on a team.”

The World Cup History Poster is a great piece of memorabilia for any soccer fan. It has wonderful photos and some great information about the history of the event. On sale for only $13.99, this special order item does take an extra 2-5 days to ship.

Some people love them and some people hate them, but if you fall into the former group this Vuvuzela South African Soccer Horn is for you. Being sold for only $7.99, it is also available in a variety of colors.

The University of Kentucky men’s basketball team is doing more than climbing national rankings and renting out future NBA lottery pick John Wall. On Monday night they moved up into a strata of college basketball that no other team can currently claim to be apart of — the 2,000 win club.

The Wildcats won their 2,000th game in convincing fashion, absolutely manhandling Drexel, 88-44. The historic win, which brings Kentucky to 12-0 on the season, had started to come in doubt over the last few years. The University of North Carolina, who sits at 1,992 wins, and the University of Kansas, who has 1,980 wins, had begun to close the gap over the past decade.

This year, however, under new head coach John Calipari, the Wildcats have reemerged as a national powerhouse and seemed destined for a long run in the NCAA Tournament. Although Wall is almost guaranteed to leave after the season, Calipari’s strong recruiting should make this revival of one of the country’s most storied basketball programs more than a one year phenomena.

To celebrate their impressive milestone I have gathered up some great deals on Wildcats gear so you can show off your Kentucky pride in style. These three great deals come courtesy of Amazon and FansEdge and are this week’s Deal of the Day.

The University of Kentucky Basketball: The Complete History DVD is the perfect way to celebrate the present while also learning about the past. With a program history that dates back to 1903, there is a plethora of interesting information that even the most die hard Wildcats fan doesn’t know. A thoughtful gift for any college basketball fan, this DVD set is currently on sale for $19.98.

You may not be able to suit up for coach Calipari but you can look like a member of his basketball team with this Kentucky Wildcats Perennial Basketball Hooded Sweatshirt. It comes in sizes small through double-extra large and is currently being sold for only $37.99.

Show of your own John Wall skills while wearing these Kentucky Wildcats Evolution Shorts. These officially licensed mesh fabric shorts also come in sizes small through double-extra large and are currently on sale for only $24.99.

Shop for more affordable Wildcats gear at Smarter.com.

A lot has been written (rightfully so) about the blockbuster trade that sent ace pitcher Roy Halladay to the Philadelphia Phillies, but the reigning National League champions are not the only team in Major League Baseball to make significant upgrades.

Yesterday, the Boston Red Sox made a splash of their own, publicly announcing the signings of pitcher John Lackey and outfielder Mike Cameron. The Red Sox were in the hunt for Halladay this offseason and before last year’s trade deadline but ultimately chose to hang onto their young prospects and sign arguably the best starting pitcher on the market.

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim were also active over the last couple days, signing now-former Yankee Hideki Matsui to a one year deal that all but assures the end of longtime halo Vladimir Guerrero. And with sluggers Jason Bay and Matt Holliday still in line to get fat new contracts, free agency looks to remain exciting as teams look to instantly upgrade their teams.

With all of this baseball activity going on, I have rounded up some great deals on fan gear from the official Major League Baseball online store. They have some killer sales going on for the holidays and many great gifts in a variety of price ranges.

This Philadelphia Phillies Maxwell Meshback Adjustable Cap is currently on sale for $19.99 and is eligible for a buy one, get one half-off promotion. The cap has a screen printing on the front with an embroidered logo and is guaranteed to be delivered in time for Christmas.

This Boston Red Sox Union Knit Cap is a stylish way to keep your head warm this winter. Currently on sale for $16.99, it features an embroidered logo on the front-left side and is made of 100% acrylic.

Show off your Christmas cheer and team pride with this Forever Collectibles Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 17″ Stocking. Surface washable with embroidered team logo and name, it is currently on sale for $19.99.

Image Source: MLB.com

Forbes magazine just released their annual listing of NBA franchise values and for the first time in four years a team other than the New York Knicks sits atop the metaphorical pile of money.

This year it is the Los Angeles Lakers who win the crown for most valuable franchise in the NBA with a Forbes listing of $607 million (a four percent increase over last year). It is no surprise that the reigning champs are raking in the dough given that they are perennially successful, have a highly marketable superstar, and play in one of the best U.S. markets.

And with the Lakers sitting so high on Forbes’ list it is safe to assume they have a lot of fans across the country. So for those fans who can’t see Kobe and company in person, and even for those who can, here are some great deals on unusual Lakers gear for this week’s edition of our Deal of the Day.

I’m not a big fan of attending baby showers but the next time I’m forced to go to one you can bet that my gift will be this Los Angeles Lakers Basketball Mobile. Not only does this mobile provide “visual and auditory stimulation,” but it is also a great way to indoctrinate children to the ways of the purple and gold. This great gift is currently on sale for $43.99 from Fan The Fire.

Do you or someone you know like the Lakers? Do you or that same person also enjoy being able to see when it’s dark? If you answered yes to both of those questions, this Guidecraft NBA Table Lamp is the ideal present for the holiday season. This amazing piece of memorabilia is currently on sale for $44.99 over at BJ’s and promises to light (pun alert!) up the face of whomever you give it to.

This Los Angeles Lakers Yellow Team Logo Drawstring Backpack from Football Fanatics is ideal for showing off your Lakers’ pride in style. Currently on sale for only $14.95, this stylish gift is also eligible for free shipping when purchased on a ticket of $50 or more.

Find more deals on Los Angeles Lakers gear at Smarter.com.

It is not too often that sports fans get to witness history, but the 11,689 people who had tickets to the Izod Center Wednesday night got to do just that. However, something tells me that all those New Jersey Nets fans would like to put this particular milestone behind them and focus all their attention on the free agent bonanza that is scheduled to be the summer of 2010.

Confused? Let me explain. On Wednesday night the Nets surpassed both the 1988-89 Miami Heat and the 1999 Los Angeles Clippers, who both dropped their first 17 games of the season, and took sole possession of the NBA’s record for worst losing streak to open a season. The Nets have opened up with an impressive 18 consecutive losses and will try to break their historic struggles Friday at home against the Charlotte Bobcats.

I imagine it is not too easy to be a Nets fan right about now, so to help ease their fan base’s pain I have gathered up some great deals on Nets gear and memorabilia for this Thursday edition of our Deal of the Day.

Watching your favorite team lose over and over again can make even the most caffeinated of us tired, which makes this New Jersey Nets Pillow by Northwest the perfect companion to watching the Nets on TV. This officially licensed 18″ x 18″ Jacquard-weave pillow bears the team name and logo and is currently on sale for only $14.99.

Take your mind off your favorite team’s horrible start with this New Jersey Nets Shot Glass Set. Each set comes with four 2 oz. glasses that each have a different design. They are currently on sale for $13.99 and available for next day shipping.

It seems like only yesterday Jason Kidd and company had the Nets as annual contenders in the Eastern Conference. If you’d rather bask in those memories than watch the current squad take the court, this Jason Kidd Reebok NBA Replica New Jersey Nets Jersey is the perfect way to do it. This 100 percent nylon mesh jersey is currently on sale for only $19.99.

Shop for more discount New Jersey Nets gear at Smarter.com.

When it comes to Allen Iverson, apparently retirement means nothing more than a short vacation.

Iverson and his representatives met in Dallas on Monday with Philadelphia 76ers head coach Eddie Jordan and general manager Ed Stefanski, apparently discussing a possible reunion between the two parties. Iverson, who played in only three games for the Memphis Grizzlies earlier this season before he and the team mutually agreed to part ways, spent much of his career in Philadelphia and even took the 76ers to the NBA finals in 2001.

The move is a shocking one because Iverson left the team in 2006 under volatile circumstances, but fans of AI should be thrilled at the possibility of him going back to where it all started. While the team is struggling with injuries (Lou Williams) and the under performance (Elton Brand) of its starters, Iverson could come in and provide an immediate boost to the team and, perhaps most importantly, its fans.

It is still too early to call it a done deal, but the prospect is definitely enticing. With that in mind I bring you a collection of Allen Iverson gear and memorabilia for this post-Thanksgiving edition of our Deal of the Day. Act quickly because many of these items are going fast!

This dark navy Denver Nuggets Swingman Jersey of Allen Iverson is the last jersey Iverson wore as a productive member of a playoff caliber team. His time with the Detroit Pistons was rocky at best, and his short stint with the Grizzlies was an absolute disaster. The jersey is currently on sale for $19.99 over at Fanzz.com and ships the same day when ordered by 2 p.m.

The book Allen Iverson: Fear No One is currently on sale at Buy.com for only $3.77 plus shipping. From its product summary: “This unauthorized biography of the Philadelphia 76er who was named MVP of the NBA in the 2000-01 season provides a revealing look at one of professional basketball’s most controversial superstars. From Iverson’s poverty-stricken beginnings in Virginia to his amazing records with the Georgetown Hoyas and the 76ers, readers will learn the heartbreaking story behind the man.”

This 2008-09 Allen Iverson Action Poster is a great gift for fans of The Answer. It is 8″ x 10″ and shows Iverson hanging on the rim after a monster dunk. It is currently on sale for $4.60 over at Discountpostersale.com, which offers free shipping on customers’ first order.

Just because Iverson rarely shows up on time to practice doesn’t mean you have to be late to your appointments. With this Philadelphia 76ers Allen Iverson Wall Clock you will always know what time it is; whether you are on time is up to you. The clock has a built in hanger for easy wall mounting, runs on 1 AA battery, and measures 12″x12″. It is currently on sale for $26.95 at Carroll’s Sports Cove and usually ships within one business day.

Find more Allen Iverson gear at Smarter.com.

As fans of Major League Soccer (and those who read yesterday’s post!) already know, Real Salt Lake won the 2009 MLS Cup with a victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy on Sunday night. It was Real Salt Lake’s first Cup since they entered the league as an expansion team in 2005 and anybody who watched the match will tell you that is was one for the ages. Between seeing some of the league’s top players play their hearts out on the pitch and watching the match go to the always captivating penalty kicks, it was a game that will be remembered for a long time by fans of United States soccer. 

To help keep those fond memories alive there is plenty of cool championship gear and clothing on sale at the official shop of Major League Soccer. There is a wide selection of memorabilia to remind you of the great 2009 MLS season and all of it is officially licensed merchandise from the MLS.

This 2009 MLS Cup Champions men’s short sleeve tee-shirt has the team, MLS and MLS Cup logo printed nicely on the front. The red championship shirt is made from 100 percent cotton and comes in sizes small through extra large. It is currently on sale for $19.99 and ships within 1-2 business days.

This 2009 MLS Cup Champions Scarf has a different print on each side of it and bears the official 2009 MLS Cup Champions team logo. It is a great way to stay fashionably warm during the winter and is currently on sale for $29.99.

This Wincraft Real Salt Lake 2009 MLS Cup Champions Pennant can be hung anywhere from an office to a dorm room and is an ideal way to show off your Real Salt Lake pride. It has full color graphics, is 12 inches by 30 inches, and is currently available for only $7.99.

This Wincraft Real Salt Lake 2009 MLS Cup Champions Sign is 11 inches by 17 inches and features the official 2009 MLS Cup Champions graphic. It is the perfect decor for a garage or media room and is currently on sale for $4.99.

This Wincraft Real Salt Lake 2009 MLS Cup Champions High Definition Key Ring has the official 2009 MLS Champions graphic and can easily fit into a pocket or purse. Currently available for only $5.99, it is a great way to be reminded of Real Salt Lake’s amazing performance every time you need to use your keys.

Image Source: MLSgear.com

NCAA men’s college basketball kicked off with a 24-hour TV marathon on ESPN this past week and began the countdown to March Madness. March Madness, the event that spawns office pools across the globe, is undeniably one of the most popular sporting events of the year. There is simply something special about watching a group of young men — more like kids, really — banding together and becoming a dominant team. Even more scintillating to watch is a team from a smaller school taking down a traditional powerhouse. 

With the beginning of the season now underway it is the ideal time to get your favorite team gear. From team hats to jerseys and warm ups to car flags, there are many different ways to show your pride and support for your favorite team.

Here are three great deals courtesy of Eastbay, GameTime USA, and the College Basketball Store to help get you started with your shopping. They all feature amazing sale items and have cool clothes and accessories from a wide variety of colleges and universities.

This Team Edition Pedigree Hoodie from Eastbay.com is available in many different teams and comes with an embroidered logo on the front. The colored hoodies are 60% cotton/40% polyester and the grey hoodies are made of 70% cotton/30% polyester and come in sizes small through quadruple-extra large. It is currently on sale for $29.99 and is eligible for free shipping on orders of $75 or more.

This Zephyr Duke Blue Devils Charcoal Mystic Fitted Hat from the CollegeBasketballStore.com is currently on sale for $14.99. Sizes range from 6 3/4 to 8 and all orders are eligible for $4.99 three day shipping.

This Georgetown Hoyas 2008-09 Blue Screen Printed Replica Basketball Shorts by Nike Team Sports from GameTimeUSA.com is made from 100% polyester fabric and is officially licensed by the NCAA. It is currently on sale for $29.99 and is available in sizes small through double-extra large.

Shop for more NCAA Basketball gear at Smarter.com.

It is getting pretty cold around the country and that means one thing for outdoor lovers – snow season. Some parts of the country get snow regularly and others hardly at all, but regardless of where you live the snow season is something to be excited about. Whether you want to ski, snowboard or make an old-fashioned snowman, there is always something fun to do during the fall and winter seasons.  

Of course, to enjoy those fun snow activities you have to have the right clothing and equipment. If you live in an area where it snows frequently you probably have a closet full of snow gear, but for those who are not used to the cold weather finding high quality, inexpensive cold weather clothing can be a difficult task. It can also be quite the dent in your wallet if you do not know where to look for the best deals.

Luckily for both newcomers to cold weather fun and seasoned outdoor veterans, I have found some amazing discounts on winter items that will save you money and have you looking great. These unbelievable savings can be found at Sierra Trading Post and more great deals can be found here.

These waterproof Orage Morph Pants retail for $230 but are currently on sale for $74.96. This incredible deal is available in three different colors and comes in sizes extra small through double-extra large.

From its product description:

• Adjustable waistband allows custom fit
• Zip hand pockets
• Rear touch-fasten pocket
• Rear zip-close pocket
• Thigh vents with welded waterproof zippers
• Left thigh gear pocket
• Anatomic knee design provides mobility
• Elastic gripper gaiters snug around boot tops to keep snow out

You can’t go snowboarding without the right equipment and the right snowboarding boots are arguably the most important item to buy. These Burton Freestyle Snowboard Boots are regularly $169.95 but are currently on sale for $87.49.

From its product description:

• Nubuck shell
• Acrylic pile lining
• Knit cuffs
• Snap wrist fasteners
• Thinner, non-bulky midsole improves sensitivity on rails and jibs
• Inner lacing harness for superior heel hold and fit
• Cushioning EVA footbed
• Traction rubber sole
• Height — 10”
• Weight — 4 lb. 6 oz.

The human body loses most of its heat through its extremities, which is why it is so important to wear durable gloves while out in the cold weather. These Grandoe Jackeroo Nubuck Gloves are currently 54 percent off and on sale for $20.62.

From its product description:

• Nubuck shell
• Acrylic pile lining
• Knit cuffs
• Snap wrist fasteners

Find more deals for Sierra Trading Post at CouponMountain.com.

As we inch our way closer to Thanksgiving another little holiday looms on the horizon. That holiday is, of course, Christmas. It is arguably the biggest holiday of the year and is certainly among the most expensive. While nearly everyone loves to open up gifts from loved ones on Christmas morning, not everyone enjoys going shopping for others. Between fighting for parking in mall parking lots, scouring stores for that perfect item, and watching your hard earned money disappear, doing traditional shopping can be a taxing experience.

Luckily for shoppers, the Internet has made the hassles of shopping largely avoidable. By shopping from the comfort of your home you can avoid the traffic, search for gifts with ease, and save money by finding the best possible price on the item you want.

With that in mind I have compiled some great sports related Christmas gifts to help you get a jump start on your holiday shopping. These special offers are courtesy of Dick’s Sporting Goods and more great deals can be found from them here.

This Razor® Powerwing™ Drifting Caster Scooter is great for people who like to have fun outdoors and get a little exercise in the process. It allows users to turn, drift and accelerate with minimal effort and comes with an effective hand brake. Normally $129.99, it is on sale for $99.99 after a special 10 percent off discount.

This Reebok Duffle Bag is a Dick’s Sporting Goods exclusive and an excellent way to stow all your gear for a trip to the gym or an overnight trip. It has a top loading main compartment, four external storage compartments, and a cable management port with MP3 pocket to store your portable music player. It is also eligible for the special 10 percent discount and is on sale for $16.97.

The Garmin Nuvi 205 GPS System is an ideal gift for anybody who spends a lot of time on the road. It has turn-by-turn directions, optional MSN® Direct services, and comes packed with millions of destinations and maps for the contiguous U.S., Canada, or regional sections of Europe. Another 10 percent off eligible item, the Garmin Nuvi 205 GPS System is on sale for the incredibly low price of $164.99.

Find more Dicks Sporting Goods coupons at CouponMountain.com.