:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55443617/584732114.0.jpg)
Twenty years ago today, a story was released that would be the opening salvo in a global phenomenon that would eventually be all-consuming for the world’s youth. Wands and wizards were the subject matter, but it quickly became a way of life. Welcome to the world of Harry Potter.
Admittedly, I’m not some Potter super-freak. I missed the sweet spot of their age demo by a couple years and didn’t start to read the series until the 5th book was released. Having said that, though, even as young adult fiction, the Potter books were immensely entertaining, creative, and page turning. And that’s from someone who is almost philosophically opposed to anything that falls into the super nerd category of obsessions. Trolls or light sabers or Lords of Rings? Hard pass.
I’ll give it to J.K. Rowling. She’s got quite the racket. 7 books, all of them well received which spun into movies and now we’re dealing with side stories and spin offs. They even have their own corner of a theme park where people can go and cast spells and do whatever else you do in a wizardry world. All because of some witches and spells. What a country.
On to the sports news and notes you need to know in today’s Hustle Belt Daily Dump:
Florida and LSU perfect dance partners for CWS | SBNation
It’s an all-SEC final for the College World Series. At least it will be high quality baseball, even with a lack of MACtion (or any other league, for that matter).
Tebow promoted by Mets despite not playing well | SBNation
What’s that? You thought because Tebow was no longer in the NFL you wouldn’t have to hear the “But he’s not good enough!!!” narratives? Oh, silly you.
USMNT announces final roster for Gold Cup | SBNation
It’s coming in July, so get yourself ready if you’re one of those “I only watch soccer every few years sorts of fans”. It’s ok, I’m one too.
Speith drains bunker shot to win | SBNation
It’s the one thing from the weekend that you need to see if you haven’t already. When you think you are playing pretty good the next time you hit the links, just pull this up and humble yourself. Incredible shot.