Ring King

"Ain't that like LeBron James..."


Kanye West - Gotta Have It






Words: @axgilbert


Photo: Associated Press

Déjà vu

"I had to perilously face the danger..."

Lauryn Hill - Lose Myself

Watching Game 4 on Tuesday night left me with a familiar feeling...it was as if I've seen pieces of this contest before.

Redemption

Dirk Nowitziki once again carried his team to victory, as the Mavericks edged Miami 86-83 to tie the series at 2-2. Nowitziki scored, rebounded, and defended in the 4th quarter, pouring 10 of his 21-points, which included a driving lay-up with seconds left in the period. 

In Game 2, he was able to turn it on, as well as score a high percentage shot with a few ticks to go on the clock that lead to a Dallas win. Throughout the playoffs, the Mavs have made a habit of mounting great comebacks in a stunning fashion. 

What stood out more in my mind, was the duress that Dirk Nowitziki was able to play under. Flashback to June 11, 1997...as Michael Jordan was ravaged by the flu, however he was able to score 38-points (15 in the last quarter) , and grab 7-rebounds, while leading the Bulls to a Game 5 NBA Finals win over the Jazz.

I not making a comparison...I was just reminded of MJ, watching Nowitizki play through a sinus infection, amongst numerous other ailments.

The history books will be rewritten by the time this matchup is said and done. Miami didn't have much of an identity late in the game, and Dallas was able to capitalize on that.

It's now a best of 3 scenario...so instead of making a prediction, I'm just going to sit back, and enjoy the next game, which I'm sure will prove to be on par with the other four.

Words: @axgilbert

Photo: Mike Ehrmann

The Takeover

"If Jeezy's paying LeBron, I'm paying Dwyane Wade..."


Jay-Z - Empire State of Mind


Game 3 is vital to any best of 7 series...especially when it's knotted at 1-1. This third match is what's usually called a "swing" game, as the winner will typically go on to win it all.


Momentum


Turnovers from Dallas led to Miami's signature transition fast break offense, while the Heat set the tone early with a superb 1st half from Dwyane Wade. There were however some lapses in their team defense, which allowed the Mavericks to make a strong 3rd quarter run, eventually tying the contest at 57, with 4:36 to go in the stanza...cutting a once 13-point deficit.


Mario Chalmers has been a constant thorn in the Mavs' side, with great play on both ends of the court along with some timely 3-point shots. 


There's a saying in sports that states, it's not how you start, it's how you finish. Tonight, Wade was consistent throughout, with 29-points, and 11-rebounds, giving the Heat an 88-86 win, and a 2-1 advantage. 


Miami did what they were supposed to do, and now the pressure is on Dallas to win at home, and get back in this matchup or face imminent elimination.


Game 4 is set for Tuesday, at 8:30pm EST.


Words: @axgilbert


Picture: Ronald Martinez

Counterattack

"Legend in 2-games like I'm Pee Wee Kirkland..."


Pusha T - Grindin'


The Mavericks evened the series at 1, in a Game 2 that the Heat would like to soon forget.
At the conclusion of the first match, I wrote that the pressure would be on Miami to tighten up the series and go up 2-0, however the only thing the road team wants to do in these situations is to steal a game, and go back to their building with the home court advantage.


Never say Never


Despite 36-points, 5-rebounds, and 6-assists from Dwyane Wade, and 20-points with 8-rebounds from LeBron James...the Mavs were able to overcome the barrage and some costly turnovers for a 95-93 victory.


This proved to be a much more exciting game, as Dirk Nowitziki provided some late game heroics scoring all his team's points down the stretch. Shawn Marion and Jason Terry added 20 and 16-points respectively to keep Dallas within striking distance as the Heat surged to a double digit lead.


The game was sealed on a left-handed Nowitziki lay-up, nonetheless...the Mavericks won the rebounding battle, and out scored Miami's bench 23-11.


Sunday is the pivotal swing game, and just like before...the onus is on Miami to prove themselves and take charge.


Words: @axgilbert


Picture: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

Hunger

"And I've been waiting for this moment, for all my life..."


Phil Collins - In the Air Tonight


The Miami Heat made the most of their return trip to the Finals, defending their home court 92-84.


Teamwork


The Heat put together a total offensive and defensive effort, as LeBron James led with 24-points, and 9-rebounds, while Dwyane Wade added 22-points, 10-rebounds, and 6-assists...but it was their second unit that surprised the Mavericks, as Mario Chalmers played 27 crucial minutes...providing Miami with 12-points off the bench.


Game 1 means everything and nothing...it sets the table, and jumpstarts the series. However it's the visiting franchise that has everything to gain and nothing to lose. All you can ask for as the road team is a split, and flight back to their place with the home court advantage.


Even with the victory, the pressure remains on the Heat to take care of business on Thursday and go to Dallas with a 2-0 lead. 


Tonight the difference was LeBron James, and like the saying goes...heavy is the head that wears the crown...James answered the call, and he now stands 3-wins from a date with NBA history.


Game 2 on Thursday should be a much better game, and you can expect to witness an all out battle.


Words: @axgilbert


Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images

The Return

"Really though I'm LeBron...really don't got my mind..."


J. Cole - Reflection Eternal


The Finals begin on Tuesday in south Florida...and this could prove to be one of the more evenly matched championships in recent years.


Tipping Point


The Mavericks and Heat  have similarities...from star power, to having dynamic duos...not too mention an undying hunger to be crowned NBA champions.


Before I can give my opinion on how I see things, I'd first like to tackle the distain that people have with LeBron Raymone James. Last summer, we all know that he decided to take his talents to south beach...well it appears that things have worked out nicely for the young man, and still the general public continues to show their displeasure.


I've heard it all, but at the end of the day James honored his contract with the Cavaliers, and he felt that he had to move on to capture a title. The NBA is a business, and one of it's top employees choose to play elsewhere. No harm, no foul...so let's move on.


As for the Finals, I believe this can easily go 6 or 7 games...due to the matchup problems each team offers. Dwyane Wade will be hampered with a troublesome shoulder, however he will play. Everyone is nursing some type of injury this time of year, and while the Dirk versus LeBron chatter will begin, it's the Dallas bench that could turn the tide in the series.


I don't want to give the trophy to one team or the other...I prefer to let the teams play, and give an analysis from there. If I had to choose...I'd say, advantage Dallas because of their depth, and rebounding.


Words: @axgilbert


Photo: Mike Ehrmann

Heart

"Every time I hit the ground, I bounce up like round ball..."


Jay-Z - Heart of the city (Ain't No Love)


Last night the Celtics outlasted the Heat 97-81, however it wasn't the score that impressed the most...it was the desire and leadership from Boston's point guard.


Hardcore


Rajon Rondo dislocated his left elbow after a collision with Dwyane Wade...and while he writhed with anguish as he was taken to the training room, no one knew what would ensue upon his return.


Rondo appeared on the Celtics bench by the end of the 3rd quarter, and he soon after began the final period on the court with his mates. I've seen games where an athlete lead their team to victory on sheer will, and Saturday was no different. Playing in pure pain...the one-armed guard worked relentlessly, when others would have folded and accepted defeat.


Today we celebrate mother's worldwide...and if Boston wins more games in this series, it will be the heroics of Rajon Rondo that will remain in the echos of basketball history.








Photo: Elsa/Getty Images

Faith

"I'm super fly, I'm super high, you gettin' yours...I'm gettin' mine..."

Rick Ross - Super High

I haven't been myself lately...anyone that knows me...understands exactly what I mean, on paper I'm sure I look great...I'm a college graduate with job, and bright future. However I haven't been up to par...best way I can explain it...I'm starting to mirror a certain team in South Florida.

Goodfellas

I think Jay-Z said it best, when he stated..."it was all good just a week ago"...now things haven't spiraled to the point of no return, but if you check your twitter time line, or read the your ESPN app regularly, then you would think the Miami Heat had lost their glass slipper, and turned into a pumpkin at midnight.

Currently they are playing less than advertised with 15 games in the books (8 wins, 7 losses), however when a team like this is assembled in the free agency fashion it was...you need time for it to coagulate.

Every great team has a superstar or two (Lakers), and the Heat have that...what they lack is the experience of playing together, front court defense, and health. In these times of 24-hour instant access, I believe that the average, fly-by-night, bandwagon, fan doesn't have the patience to wait for DWade and company to fulfill the championship promises.

Miami is stuck in neutral, and with 67-games to go...things can change for the better...the Heat's biggest concern is not when they turn things around...it's the more established teams in the East, like Orlando, and Boston.

This is not the year LeBron makes good on his quest for the title...that day is still a little further down the road. Until that time comes, games like James' return to Cleveland will have to do for highlights, and headlines of this season.

Have faith everyone, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Domination

"I'm paying Dwyane Wade..."

Jay-Z - Empire State of Mind

TV commercials play an important role in our society. Add sports, and athletes and the stakes go even higher. In my youth television ads helped me to grow and become loyal to a brand. Nowadays in the digital age, everything is bigger and better...and nothing is more advanced than the new Jordan Brand campaign with the artist formerly known as FLASH.

This is a new day and team for Mr. Dwyane Wade, and he is ready for the challenge.

Photo: Drew Hallowell/Getty Images

Checkmate

"Jay's favorite line...dog in due time..."

Kanye West - Touch the Sky

LeBron James shook up the sports world last week when he announced that he was taking his talents to South Beach. Since then the media and and general public have been giving him the Kobe treatment.

Control

Heavy is the head that wears the crown...

-William Shakespeare

LeBron James is a professional athlete and he has done what was best for him and his family. My first job upon my graduation from Temple University was with the National Basketball Association...when I was laid off due to an economic downturn...my heart was in pain, and I felt betrayed, however at the end of the day it was a business move.

When I look at the circumstances of James' decision...the similarities are familiar. I can understand the way people felt when he choose not to return to Cleveland, because whenever emotions are involved...the vision can become cloudy...yet this wasn't about the fans, or loyalty to his adopted home, it was strictly business. If the Cavs would have traded him to another team last February, it would have been merely the way things are done in professional sports. So there shouldn't be any hoopla when the athlete takes the reigns for once.

The NBA rookies of 2003 are as heralded as the '84, and '96 classes, so with James, Wade, and Bosh on the same squad...it's Xbox come true. Imagine Bryant, Nash, and Ray Allen, or Jordan, Barkley, and Olajuwon together against the league...the possibilities would be endless.

I see nothing wrong with this move to Florida. When A-Rod won the AL MVP award with the Rangers...he was a great player with tons of individual awards, but what truly burned his competitive fire was the quest for a World Series ring, which he captured last October. He is currently about to reach the 600 home run milestone, and now as a champion he can revel in the accolades. It has nothing to do with the Yankees being Derek Jeter's team...it has everything to do with the reason why all athletes play.

Only time will tell if this new star alignment will earn multiple championships...right now as things are, the Celtics, Magic, Thunder, and Lakers can prove to be a thorn in Miami's side, but until next June arrives, we'll all just have to watch and wait.

Photo: Larry Busacca/Getty Images

Respect Due

"That blue and yellow, yeah that's the Carmelo jag..."

Nicki Minaj - Up Out My Face

"Melo had a great game...if the West would have won, he would have been MVP..." - Dwyane Wade

Super Official

On Sunday the NBA hosted the All-Star game, however last night the Cavs matched up with the visiting Nuggets, for an entertaining duel between best friends.

Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James will forever be linked not only through basketball, but also because of their mutual respect and bond. The league is driven by stars and team dynasties, so when Kobe and LeBron get the international advertisements, and continue to do the impossible...they tend to overshadow their peers. However there are special players throughout the association, and one such person is Carmelo Anthony.

He has been given the nickname Captain America from his breakout play with Team USA, and ability to score as well as defend, making Anthony one of the best. At 6'8", 230lbs he moves like a guard, with Usain Bolt like speed.

In Cleveland, he and the Nuggets needed an extra 5-minutes playing into overtime to outlast the Cavaliers 118-116. Carmelo had 40-points, 6 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 blocks, while James counted with a triple-double (43-points, 15 assists, 13 boards), but it was Anthony's jump shot with 1.9 remaining that delivered the win.

One thing is true, in that after everything is said and done...there will be nothing left to say or do.

Photo: David Liam/NBAE via Getty Images

Flashpoint

"I'm paying Dwyane Wade..."

Jay-Z - D.O.A.

There is something to be said about a person that is at the peak of their career, yet they stay humble, and work even harder as if they were an intern trying to break into the corporate world.

Through the Fire

Dwyane Wade was an afterthought to LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony leading into the NBA draft several years ago, as LeBron was the most coveted prep player since Kevin Garnett, while Anthony led 'Cuse to their first national championship. And once the dust settled in June, it was James that was selected first, Darko next, followed by Carmelo third...in what became the LeBron/Melo draft.

However it was Miami with the 5th pick that walked away the big winner in 2003 by selecting Wade, an over achieving guard from the Midwest. Three-years later the Heat captured the NBA title behind his stellar playmaking, heart, and free-throws.

On Sunday, Flash helped the East All-Stars defeat the West with 28-points...and with that he corralled the MVP honors. Last night the Heat were in town to square off against the 76ers, and afterward I spoke with him about perseverance and success.

Here is the final score on our court side conversation:

AXG: As a basketball player you have been overlooked a lot, how do you feel about that?

Wade: "It just makes you work hard...it just makes you appreciate success when you get it...it makes you appreciate your whole journey. I feel like, no matter how high I go, I feel like I have to always continue to prove myself, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

AXG: Talk about the All-Star MVP award.

Wade: "It felt good man...first of all to be a part of that game...to be a part of the historical event that went on, and to be able to hoist that MVP trophy above my head really felt good. I enjoyed it!"

AXG: You are sometimes the forgotten name among the superstars, why is that?

Wade: "You know what...it drives me, and of course hopefully until I am done playing this game I will continue to shut people up, or continue to prove myself. All I ask for in this game is respect, and when it is not given, I go out and I try to take it. Like I keep saying...it's fine, everything in life happens for a reason, so I will continue to keep going."

AXG: What do your All-Star peers think about you?

Wade: "Melo had a great game...if the West would have won he would have been MVP, and you know me and LeBron we both had good games. At the end of the game we all came together you know me, Melo, LeBron, CP...you know group hug, because we're all close, and it's a relationship outside of basketball...so just as well as I was happy for LeBron when he won his two [All-Star] MVP's I was right there, and I know that he felt the same way."

AXG: What does the '03 draft class mean to you?

Wade: "It's always going to be part of a conversation that you're going to have to mention '03. When you talk about the great drafts, there were some great drafts, and people will always argue over who was the best draft class, but you would never say that without mentioning '03, and that's a good thing to be a part of."

Photo: Garrett Ellwood/NBAE via Getty Images

Double Nickel

Faith

"Allen Iverson...Hakeem Olajuwon...don't even bounce"

Asher Roth - I Love College

When Brandon Jennings was selected by Milwaukee this past summer, no one saw what was coming next...

Self Confidence

The 76ers played the Bucks in their home opener...I was busy covering the World Series...so I didn't attend the game, however my friend and colleague Michael Tillery was there and wrote a great piece for SLAM's website...entitled I Saw A Rookie of the Year Tonight. He texted me at during the 4th quarter telling me how amazing the rookie is, and while I hadn't seen him since the McDonald's game, I was intrigued, because now he's in the League, and apparently getting busier than a worker bee in July.

When Jennings went from high school to play professionally in Italy...I wasn't too sure how well he would do as a point guard. Needless to say its good to see that my opinion doesn't matter, and the work that this man had put into his game, and basketball IQ is now getting the last laugh.

Last night he scored 55 points in a 129-125 win over the visiting Warriors. Interestingly enough he didn't score in the 1st quarter, but he kept his composure en route to breaking Lew Alcindor's 39-year old Bucks rookie record by 4 points.

There is never a dull moment in NBA action...from this, to Dwyane Wade's dunk...things are heating up. This week I'll interview LeBron James, and Rudy Gay, so be sure to stay tuned...as the best is just ahead of us.

Photo: NBAE

Bridging the Gap

Pinnacle

Business

"And with the 3rd pick, I made the Earth sick...MJ...him J, fade-away perfect..."

Jay-Z - Hola' Hovito

Last night Dwyane Wade made a mysterious post on his twitter page...something about a big announcement that was forth coming.

Standing in the Shadows of Love

In my youth there were several things that mattered outside of my family...basketball, soccer, good grades, Sega Genesis, and an occasional trip to McDonald's. There was another thing that I absolutely thought about day and night...and it was none other than owning a pair of Michael Jordan sneakers, so I could play basketball in them, as well as look REALLY good while I was wearing them.

In looking at my list above, I am 100% sure that people all across the board can relate in someway if not agree with me wholeheartedly. Well like Michael Jackson once sang, "You are not alone..." because Dwyane Wade, like a lot of other children played basketball, and wanted nothing more than to wear the Jordan shoe...it also helps that he is a Chicago native and grew up a Bulls fan.

When Wade, or Flash as I like to call him was drafted he signed with Converse because he wanted to take the road less traveled, and make a name for himself off his own merits. Fast forward to the present day, and he has accomplished that and more having won a championship in '06, and an Olympic gold in '08. He has made some serious strides since his rookie year and it was that line of thinking that pushed him to sign with the Jordan Brand, leaving his deal with Converse behind.

I don't want to speculate, but when an opportunity like this knocks, you not only have to answer it...you have to accept the responsibility with an open heart and mind.

KING

Family

2003 to infinity

Nike MVP VI

"KG of the game, LeBron James...you boys must don't know my name..."

Slim Thug - I Ain't Heard of That

Tonight LeBron R. James was awarded the league MVP, affectionately known as the Maurice Podoloff trophy...in front of his family, friends, and a capacity Cleveland crowd.

By Any Means Necessary

I first met the boy who would be King in December of 2002, and within that timeframe he has grown both on and off the court. What amazes me most is his persona, life away from basketball, and business acumen. LeBron is very intelligent in who he is, and what his brand means, so he is very calculated in what he does and says...like Kobe, and Jordan before him...he is ready to lead the association into the next decade of basketball greatness.

I interviewed him several times this season, and all I can say is that it has been a nice trip...from the infamous "crab dribble" game in DC, to the near triple-double in Madison Square Garden...James never ceases to entertain.

Below is the score on a conversation we held recently, which will give you a glimpse into how the MVP thinks:

Talk about the ’03 Draft Class: “Oh we’re known. That’s something that we talk about all the time. That’s something me, D Wade, Melo, Chris Bosh, I mean all of us, Kirk Hinrich, the list goes on…Mo Williams, Sasha [Pavlovic], the class of ’03 is really big in this league, and still getting better. It’s something that we really take pride in, having our draft class…we try to hold ourselves up to the draft class that Z [Ilgauskas] was in with AI, and Ray [Allen] and all those guys, you know Steph [Marbury], and all those guys which was arguably one of the best drafts too, so we try to hold our standards to those guys.”

What has this season been like, as a team? “I know our potential…I can see our potential getting better everyday…things we do on and off the court, it reminds me of the days when I was back in high school. Every time we went out on the court…we knew we were going to win. It was never a doubt. We’ve had guys nicked up, and out for long periods of time, I’m not talking about 1-week or 2-games…we’ve had key guys that have been out 4-6 weeks, you know 2-3 months and guys have been able to step in, and still have been able to hold serve, so this could probably be the hungriest I’ve been because I can see the potential of our team.”

What drives you? “I think what drives me is wanting to be the best player every night I go on the basketball court, and for me to continue to get better as an individual. I think I have a long way…of course I haven’t hit the peak of my career yet but every night I go out I want to be the best player on the court, so that’s the kind of drive.”

Talk about your friendship with Kobe and Dwyane Wade: “I think it’s great, I think it’s great…I think it’s great for the league that arguably the three best players in the league, are in an MVP race, and it hasn’t been like this in a long time. I mean, take nothing away from Steve Nash…great player, but when he was winning, Kobe, and myself, and D Wade were still the best players in the league, you know so…you have three guys that everyone says are the best players in the league…are in the MVP race…I think it’s great man. It’s tribute to the summer that we had…we all made each other work hard everyday. The games came easy to us but the things that we’ve been able to do with our teams are great, we love it, we take the challenge every night.”

Photos: Associated Press and Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

Acknowledgement

Intensity

Strength

"Got a hunger for this game..."

Jay-Z - Honey

I didn't go too far from home when I decided to attend college, as I merely was a public transportation ride away from Temple University. As a post graduate I've lived in numerous places, including New York City, and Beaverton, Oregon...I've been homesick as an adult, but never as a student, since I was educated so close to home.

Honor

If you have been watching the NBA this season a few things will stand out, such as the MVP season that LeBron James had, and the way Dwyane Wade led the Miami Heat to the playoffs with a young team, however Courtney Lee, the rookie guard for the Orlando Magic is having the time of his life.

Lee had a standout career at Western Kentucky University, and as a homesick freshman he was befriended and guided by teammate Danny Rumph, which he credits for helping to shape him into the person he is today.

Rumph collapsed and died in 2005 at a playground in his hometown Philadelphia. He used to wear the number 11 for WKU, and now Courtney Lee remembers him twofold by wearing Rumph's number for the Magic, and through a tattoo on his right arm of an angel winged-basketball player, wearing a no. 11 Western Kentucky jersey with a Philadelphia Phillies cap.

The Philadelphia 76ers have drawn the Magic in the 1st round of the playoffs, and as the series shifted to Pennsylvania, these games serve as a homecoming for Courtney Lee. I had an opportunity to interview him before Game 3. Here is the score on our conversation:

GAME TIME: You have a big role with the Magic, can you talk about that?

Lee: "Like you said, I'm playing, and staying ready and prepared to knock down open shots and taking what the defense is giving me...and they're giving me a lot of open good looks, so I'm ready to step in and knock them down. Fortunately my teammates have been able to get me the ball in that position. It's been a long season...I've been working hard from day 1...I was able to break [into] the starting line-up, after the first 30 games.

GAME TIME: What's it like coming from a small school?

Lee: "Coming from a small school Western Kentucky...we really wasn't on the map that much, but we did our best."

GAME TIME: Talk about conditioning...have you hit the rookie wall?

Lee: "Conditioning wise, I'm in the best shape of my life. 82-games, practice...there's no time to get out of shape. My legs are fine...I really didn't hit the rookie wall. I mean there were a couple of times when we would get in late, and I'd wake up the next day and I'm tired...but not really to the point when I needed a break. This is basketball, and I love to do it!"

GAME TIME: What are you feeling now that you are in the NBA Playoffs?

Lee: "This is the biggest stage I've ever played on in my life...I'm definitely having fun out there, and coach does a good job of preparing us in practice and walk through, so we know what we're going to face. It's all about execution, and we're out there playing for each other."

GAME TIME: You had a big offensive night in Game 2, can you talk about playing defense?

Lee: "I've been getting switched from 1, to 3, and I'm just trying to stay in front of my man as much as possible, and make them take difficult shots all night."

GAME TIME: Talk about shooting the big shots:

Lee: "That's what you have to play for, you have to be ready to knock down big time shots. On this team we have other guys that probably get the play called for them, so anytime it comes to me, I have to be ready. I thrive off that."

GAME TIME: Coming from a small school, you are carrying a lot of people on your shoulders:

Lee: "Yeah...after Game 2...I had like 50-60 text [messages] from people just telling me that they're proud of me, and that definitely means a lot. I come from a city where they are basketball crazy, and then as I kept going to the next level, they have followed me and supported me, and it means a lot!"

GAME TIME: Can you talk about your jersey, and the number 11?

Lee: "In college, my teammate which is from the Philadelphia area, passed away after my freshman year, and I wanted to pay a tribute to him at the highest level, so I have a tattoo of him, and I switched my number to his number.

The Adventures of Dwyane Wade

"I'm more of the...trips to Florida..."

Kanye West - Flashing Lights

Last week I stumbled across a video on YouTube that invoked childhood memories of playing basketball all day until the street lights went out. I was so intrigued at what I saw that I decided to get involved and do a little good old fashioned research.

Competition

Dwyane Wade is not only a great athlete, and humanitarian, but he is also someone that I consider a friend. He gives directly from his heart, and people like that are far, few, and in between. So to make a long story short, Wade has game...as well as the championship hardware to prove it. 

Nevertheless, billionaire Charles Charles MaGalls has ignored all reason and logic, by sending out a personal challenge to the man we call Flash...in a match of one on one. The rules are simple...game goes to 10 by 1, and you must win by 2. However judging from the MVP season D Wade is having, you would either have to be an elite player, or insane to issue a duel of such proportions...but I've been around the game for a long time, and just when I thought I'd seen it all, in comes MaGalls from left field.

A wise person once said...quitting while you are ahead...isn't the same as quitting.

Mission Impossible

"Ain't no way that you gonna win..."

Twista - Impossible

Billionaire Charles Charles MaGalls is on an ego trip. I mean how else would I begin to describe the challenge that he has issued to Dwyane Wade? I've often heard how unhappy people with money are...but this is something totally different.

Heart

A few weeks ago McGalls Industries Global CEO took out advertisements in Miami to ask Wade to a duel, in one of the only venues that matters when it comes to bragging rights...the outdoor courts. The game is to 10 by 1, and you must win by 2. I grew up playing ball, as I still enjoy the game today, but when people call you out, the best thing to do is to let your game do the talking. 

The video above is of footage that was taken last week after a Heat home win...as you can see Flash doesn't have much to say because he knows that talk and advertising mean nothing...and if and when these two square off on the blacktop, I know that the outcome was over before it began.

Charles Charles MaGalls has grit, and I like his determination, but he's a billionaire, so he should stick to what he does best within the global market, and relax on the tough talk to the potential league MVP.

Homecoming King

Rookie Year

Freshman Year

Strength

Respect

"I got it sewn, I'm so authentic...and you're not official like a ref at a scrimmage..."

Wale - Daytona Squared

Yesterday I drove to DC to cover the Wizards versus Heat game. I picked up my good friend Michael and we were on our way. Once we got on I-95 near the Chester exit, we were greeted with some traffic and a host of snow flurries. It's been really cold lately, just how I like it, nevertheless it would take more than some precipitation to deter me from a trip home.

Freshman 15

My uncle graduated from Temple University about 20-years ago, and upon receiving his degree he moved to the nation's capital, and began working for the government. My family is from West Philadelphia, so when my uncle moved below the Mason-Dixon Line, it provided the rest of us with a new place to visit, and for my brother and I...it gave us somewhere to spend the summer months.

The DMV (DC/Maryland/Virginia), is a great place, as it has been a hotbed for politics, sports, and other things both good and bad, however for my intents and purposes, its the athletes and fervor for sports that I love the most about the area...well that and the beautiful women, but that is another story.

I used to coach youth basketball, and one of my BEST players was an 8th-grader at Gwynn Park Middle School, named BreAnna. To make a long story short, Gwynn Park Middle is known for their basketball talent, so when Bre went to high school she went to another powerhouse, Riverdale Baptist. I attended a few practices and one of her games, and it was from those encounters, that I first heard and met a young man named Michael Beasley.

He was a highly touted sophomore at the time, having transfered there from National Christian Academy. I was impressed by his natural ability, and by the fact he was such an agile person for his size. He was simply a shooting guard in a power forward's body, and most importantly, he is left-handed, which is like having a platinum engagement ring verses white gold. Yes being left-handed in basketball has its advantages.

Watching Beasley play with the Miami Heat was surreal. The main reason why, is because it seems like yesterday when he was in high school...but he's in the League now, and he and I had time to catch up after the game.

I interviewed Dwyane Wade first, because I really needed to talk to him for an assignment from HOOP Magazine. When I walked over Flash already had a crowd of reporters around him, so I waited until they dissipated to ask my questions. Before I could say a word, Wade greeted me saying..."what's up A? How are your mother and sister?" To which I replied..."hey Flash, they're good. I just have a few questions...cool?" "Yeah sure man", he answered but I usually see you in Philly, what are you doing down here?"..."Well I had to interview you, so I asked my friend if he wanted a ride...and we got in the Batmobile." I retorted, and he looked at me surprisingly saying..."the Batmobile?"

I'll go more in depth about that in another post, but for now, below is the final score on my conversation with Beasley:

Can you define what it means for you to be a basketball player from DC?

"It's unbelievable...I can name 3-million people that doubted me growing up, talking about I wouldn't be this and I wouldn't be that. So just to be here and be in my hometown now, and know that everybody loves me and supports what I do...it's breath taking."

Now that the NCAA season has started, are you able to follow the college game?

"[Pauses] Not as much as I want to, but I catch a couple of games...my brother [Nolan Smith] plays for Duke, so I caught their last 2 games.

Speaking of Nolan Smith, he is the starting point guard...your thoughts?

"[Smiles] He's doing what he has to do!"

What have you learned thus far being a rookie in this league?

"The league ain't no joke! I can tell you that...I mean, in high school and college you have your star players, and then you have players that shouldn't necessarily be on the court. Not in the NBA...you have your star players, and players that you think shouldn't be on the court, until you guard them man...and they are just as good as the star player you know? The league ain't no joke, you have to bring it everyday! I'm learning a lot about myself...on the defensive side, on the offensive side, but it's more so off the court."