Talking Points: Houston’s anthem lifted all

What’s the buzz from the world of sports? Here are some items that will have people talking:

1

For sports fans, Whitney Houston will always be remembered for her rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the 1991 Super Bowl in Tampa, Fla.

Rolling Stone put out a “25 Most Memorable Music Moments in NFL History.” It included a review of Houston’s performance that day.

“With America entangled in the Persian Gulf War, the possibility of terrorists targeting the Super Bowl brings metal detectors, SWAT teams and shaky emotions to Tampa stadium. Then Whitney Houston takes the stage — and belts out a mind-blowing rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’ bringing fans to their feet and tears to the eyes of many watching at home. Her singing, perhaps even more memorable than the Giants 20-19 win over the Bills, stirs such strong patriotism that it’s released as a single … and goes gold.”

2

The MVP for this weekend’s Davis Cup tennis match between the U.S. and Switzerland goes to … those who put down the clay court.

Huh? Doesn’t that usually mean the Americans get trouced?

Not this time.

John Isner, Mardy Fish, and Mike Bryan knocked off favored Swiss stars Roger Federer and Stanislas Wawrinka with solid play on an especially hard and fast clay court.

Be sure to thank the Swiss court builders for not being from Spain.

For more Talking Points, follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/talkpoints360