SAITAMA, Japan — Just spoke with Pau Gasol via telephone.

It’s about midnight where the Grizzlies All-Star forward is, and Gasol can’t sleep.

“Hopefully, it’s not going to be serious,” Gasol said of the injury to his left foot, suffered Friday near the end of Spain’s 75-74 victory over Argentina in the World Championships.

Gasol limped off the court in the final minutes and was shown clutching an ice pack to his left foot as the final buzzer sounded.

“I spun,” Gasol said, “and felt a sharp pain in my left foot so I went down.”

Gasol said results of an MRI and X-rays won’t be known until Saturday morning.

Griz coach Mike Fratello, who set an alarm and awakened to watch USA and Spain, said Friday morning that the team was awaiting word from Gasol’s agent, Arn Tellem.

When told that the organization and fans are worried and anxious, Gasol said: “It’s understandable.”

On Wednesday the NHRA announced it would be going to its version of a postseason in 2007. It’s a good move to help the popularity of drag racing.

The “casual fan” is the sports world’s version of the undecided voter — no one is sure what casual fans want but sports want them all on their side.

NASCAR has been able to attract the most in the American motorsports world over the past five years or so, but the No. 2 spot is up for grabs. The NHRA is trying to rise above the IRL and Champ Car series for national recognition.

Giving casual fans a playoff format that is familiar is a smart move by the NHRA, but there’s so much more it can do.
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