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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

James struggled with quick fame

Basketball: LeBron James struggled with sudden fame after appearing on Sports Illustrated’s cover as a 17-year-old and admits he smoked marijuana during his junior year in high school.

Those are two of the revelations in a book chronicling James’ rise from Akron, Ohio, hoops prodigy to NBA superstar.

In “Shooting Stars,” written by James and co-author Buzz Bissinger, James said the SI cover and the media attention he and his high school teammates received was difficult to handle.

“We had become big-headed jerks, me in particular, and we are to blame for that, but so are adults who treated us that way and then sat back and smugly watched the self-destruction,” James said.

The book is scheduled for release in September.

Associated Press

Spots for fans running out

Football: Spots are running out for fans interested in seeing the Seattle Seahawks during training camp at their headquarters in Renton, Wash.

The Seahawks said space remains for the morning practice on Aug. 3 and Aug. 11 and their afternoon practice on Aug. 4. The other nine practice sessions are full.

Associated Press

Sumo hits the beach in Japan

Sumo wrestling: Trade that bikini for a loincloth. Japan’s ancient sport of sumo wrestling is hitting the beach this summer.

The aim is to promote sportsmanship, introduce youngsters to Japan’s traditional sport and raise environmental awareness. Beach sumo was created by Tamakairiki, a former sumo whose real name is Yukio Kawabe.

“Kids only see sumo on TV, so this gives them a chance to experience it up close,” he said.

Associated Press

Cougars hire Julian as coach

Track/cross country: Pete Julian, a successful collegiate coach and professional athlete and coach, has joined the Washington State coaching staff, head coach Rick Sloan announced.

Julian will coach the men’s and women’s middle-distance, distance and cross country runners, replacing Jason Drake, who accepted a position at the University of Washington.

Julian comes to WSU from Metropolitan State College of Denver.

WSU release