NFC, AFC set Pro Bowl records
The NFC scored 28 consecutive points in the fourth quarter, rallying from a 25 point deficit to defeat the AFC in the highest scoring game in Pro Bowl history 55-52. The two teams showcased the high powered offensive talent in the league today with a combined 107 points. St Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger was named the game's MVP with a record four touchdown passes. The NFC took the lead when Detroit Lion Dre' Bly picked off the Colts' Peyton Manning and returned it 32 yards for a touchdown. The AFC still had a chance to send the game to overtime, but Colts kicker Mike Vanderjagt's 51 yard field goal sailed wide as time expired. It was a rare miss for Vanderjagt, who had not missed a field goal attempt all season.Pats: Smith can be free agent
A week after winning their second Super Bowl in three years, the New England Patriots decided not to exercise their option on leading rusher Antowain Smith. Smith started only six games because of injury, but rushed for 252 yards and two touchdowns in three playoff games. With New England hard pressed to stay under the salary cap, Smith was willing to restructure his contract, but was unable to reach an agreeable number with the team. Smith becomes an unrestricted free agent, and it is highly unlikely he will return for the 2004 season.
"In his three seasons with the Patriots, Antowain played a significant role in our team's overall success," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. "He is a true professional. On behalf of the entire organization, we wish him continued success in the future."

East wins NHL All-Star Game
Colorado Avalanche Joe Sakic scored three goals and was named MVP, but the East's goaltending was too strong and the Eastern conference went on to win the All-Star game 6-4. It was the second straight year that a player from the losing team was named the game's MVP. Ottawa Senator Daniel Alfredsson led the East with two goals, while 43 year old Mark Messier had a record 14th All-Star game assist. The New York Rangers center moved into second place on the all-time scoring list behind Wayne Gretzky earlier this season.
Grizzlies get record 29th win
Shane Battier hit a 14-foot jumper with 2.9 seconds remaining to lift the Memphis Grizzlies over the Minnesota Timberwolves 99-98. It was the 29th win of the season for the Grizzlies, surpassing last year's record total of 28. It was the fourth win in a row for the Grizzlies, who are 29-21 and charging towards the franchise's first ever playoff berth. Memphis is on pace to win 48 games, making Hubie Brown a definite coach of the year candidate.
"We're finally a legitimate franchise," Battier said. "For a while, people weren't taking us seriously -- fans, refs, everyone. It's nice to get a little respect."

Knight has altercation with Texas Tech Chancellor
Texas Tech Chancellor David Smith said that men's basketball coach Bob Knight "came charging up behind me furious with fists clenched," during an altercation at an upscale grocery store. Smith said he was complimenting the coach to a friend when he was grabbed from behind by Knight. Knight was reprimanded but not suspended, after yet another violent run in. Knight was fired from Indiana in 2000 after winning three national championships and 11 Big-10 titles. Knight is better known for throwing a chair across a court, punching a police officer and kicking a chair a player was sitting in. He was also accused of choking an Indiana player.

FDA to finalize ban on Ephedra
The Food and Drug Administration announced that all sales of products containing the supplement Ephedra must stop by Apr. 12, finalizing a ban which began in December. Ephedra has been linked to 155 deaths, the most prominent coming with Baltimore Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler died during spring training in 2003.
"Do not take these products," FDA Commissioner Mark McClellan warned. "They are simply too risky."
- Compiled by Dan Hirschhorn