By Dave Begel Contributing Writer Published May 27, 2015 at 2:06 PM

There is always a lot of sports news that comes across the desk that doesn’t really deserve a full blown article but nevertheless should be noted by sports fans.

Here’s a sample of some of the latest news items.

  • The Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook, one of the most highly regarded oddsmakers, has put the odds of Wisconsin being the national college basketball champion next year at 50-1. Maryland, North Carolina and Kentucky are the favorites at 7-1. Big 10 teams ahead of the Badgers include Maryland, Michigan State at 30-1 and Indiana at 40-1. The Badgers are tied with Butler, Cal, Notre Dame and Texas. Let’s all hope our memory of this year remains intact.

  • Rumors, rumors, rumors – the lifeblood of being a sports fan. Rumors continue to swirl about the next head to fall in Wisconsin. The Packers seem safe. But there is a rumor about who will get the axe first, Doug Melvin of the Brewers or John Hammond of the Bucks. Melvin obviously has a good relationship with Brewer’ owner Mark Attanasio, but if the decision is made to have a fire sale and begin to rebuild, a new GM may be in store. With the Bucks, it’s no secret that coach Jason Kidd wanted to run all the basketball operations with the Nets. The speculation is that he wants the same power in Milwaukee which would most likely force Hammond out.  Wonder who readers think will be the first one to go.

  • He’s been vilified and gone for quite awhile, but Brett Favre is coming back into the consciousness  of Wisconsin sports fans. He’s having his number retired and Lambeau Field is already sold out for that event. He is also going to play football again – flag football in Camp Randall in July. He will face a team headed by former Eagles’ quarterback, Donovan McNabb. Favre’s team will include Frank Winters, Mark Chmura, Javon Walker, Andre Rison and former UW star Ron Dayne. Proceeds will benefit Favre’s foundation. Favre is 45 years old.

  • Speaking of the Packers, the new lineup has been announced for the Packers’ Pro Shop. If you’ve never been there, you should go, just to see how much green and gold you can actually stand. Of course they have the jerseys and hats and tailgate chairs and bobbleheads available. But there is other stuff including: a seat cover for your car, $27.16; women’s Cuce Shoes team sandals, $50.96; Protoast MVP Team Logo Toaster, $43.99; steering wheel cover, $12.71; Green Bay Packers Newborn Creeper, Bib and Bootie Set - Pink, $22.99; Cuce Shoes Women's Wedge Espadrille - Green, $67.96; Staked Bird Bath, $25.46; Green Bay Packers Art-Glass Table Lamp, $59.46;  Paddle Boat Inflatable Float - Green; $58.99; Women's Bikini Set - GreenSale: $55.21; Dream Lites Pillow Pet $25.99;  Cork and Bottle Holder,  $33.96; Women's Sequin Repro Handbag - Pink, $23.99; Pet Jersey, $21.21; Women's Cameo Burnout Panty - Green/White, $15.26. And perhaps the greatest item of all, Packers covers for the valve stems on the tires on your car, set of 4, $10.96. If you buy these, you need to see a doctor. Fast.
Dave Begel Contributing Writer

With a history in Milwaukee stretching back decades, Dave tries to bring a unique perspective to his writing, whether it's sports, politics, theater or any other issue.

He's seen Milwaukee grow, suffer pangs of growth, strive for success and has been involved in many efforts to both shape and re-shape the city. He's a happy man, now that he's quit playing golf, and enjoys music, his children and grandchildren and the myriad of sports in this state. He loves great food and hates bullies and people who think they are smarter than everyone else.

This whole Internet thing continues to baffle him, but he's willing to play the game as long as OnMilwaukee.com keeps lending him a helping hand. He is constantly amazed that just a few dedicated people can provide so much news and information to a hungry public.

Despite some opinions to the contrary, Dave likes most stuff. But he is a skeptic who constantly wonders about the world around him. So many questions, so few answers.