United States upset

Shocking.

The U.S. Olympic softball team was denied a fourth straight gold medal, losing 3-1 on Thursday to Japan in the sport’s final appearance in the games for at least eight years.

The Americans’ 22-game Olympic winning streak was snapped as Japan pitcher Yukiko Ueno handed them their first loss since Sept. 21, 2000 at Sydney.

Ueno pitched seven innings, one day after she pitched 21 to get the Japanese into the gold-medal game.

Upshaw dies at 63

Tragic news.

Gene Upshaw, the Hall of Fame guard who during a quarter century as union head helped get NFL players free agency and the riches that came with it, has died. He was 63.

Upshaw died Wednesday night at his home in Lake Tahoe, Calif., of pancreatic cancer, which was diagnosed only last Sunday, the NFL Players Association said Thursday. His wife Terri and sons Eugene Jr., Justin and Daniel were by his side.

“Gene Upshaw did everything with great dignity, pride, and conviction,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said.

“He was the rare individual who earned his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame both for his accomplishments on the field and for his leadership of the players off the field. He fought hard for the players and always kept his focus on what was best for the game. His leadership played a crucial role in taking the NFL and its players to new heights.”

News of Upshaw’s death first came through a Clear Channel Online report that appeared on several radio Web sites.

“He was a giant in the NFL,” New York Jets owner Woody Johnson said. “Gene continually served in the best interests of the game of football. He played a colossal role in the success the NFL enjoys today, even more than many people realize.”

Condolences to the family.