Thin Line

"First they love me, then they hate me, then they love me again..."


Jay-Z - Meet the Parents


Last week the Miami Heat defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 121-106 to win their second championship in franchise history.


Destiny's Child


When the topic is LeBron James, people either hate or love him. This wasn't always the case...when he first entered the league in '03, he was praised as the boy who would be king, and now he has become a polarizing figure that has everyone choosing sides including members of the media.


Journalists are supposed to be biased...leaving their personal opinions at the press room door. James isn't the first athlete to have everyone turn against him, take Muhammad Ali for instance, he wasn't appreciated for who he was until he had been retired and away from the sport he helped to make great.


The facts are that LeBron R. James is the League and Finals MVP, and accolades aside, he has removed the albatross from around his neck. He has been on a path to acquire a championship, and now that he has tasted success at that level, he will only want more. 


It's a cycle that goes unquenched, and for basketball fans the time is now to buckle up and enjoy the next few years.


He should only be measured on what he does in between the lines of a basketball court. He's a professional athlete, so fans and the media alike should stick to the script and not worry about his personal life. We all make mistakes, he just makes his in front of the world, while most people do things anonymously.


Unfortunately perception is reality, but it's not always the truth.


Words: @axgilbert


Photo: Webster Riddick

Post Season - Miami Heat

"Funny how my old highs is suddenly my new lows..."


J. Cole - Grew up Fast

The Miami Heat are on a mission for a second championship in their franchise's history, but it's LeBron James that wants to be first in line to hoist the Larry O'Brien trophy.

Words: @axgilbert

Photo: Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images

Magical

"I'mma need a day off, I think I'll call Ferris up..."


Kanye West - Gotta Have It

Things have been very interesting around the NBA the past 2-weeks, as the Heat, and Thunder continue to win...while Knicks point guard Jeremy Lin is getting on the job training.


Consistency


It's the All-Star break and while 90-percent of the league is enjoying the much needed time off...the other 10-percent have arrived in Orlando ready for the 61st midseason classic. I am currently watching the BBVA Rising Stars Challenge high above the court in section 202 of the Amway Center...however what's more important is what will happen from the moment this weekend ends, and the second half of the season begins?


Will the Lakers make a trade, where will Dwight Howard go, are the Clippers for real, and can the 76ers get their groove back?


The month of March is around the corner and the answers to these questions and many others will soon be revealed.


Words: @axgilbert


Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

Net Worth

"I keep that nine on me, ala Iguodala..."

Fabolous - The Way (Intro)

Tonight the Philadelphia 76ers enter their 21st game of the year as they host the Orlando Magic, and while that may not sound overly exciting, it's games like this that can make or break a season.

The test

If the NBA were a college or university, then this week could easily be the Sixers mid-term exams. They will play the likes of the Magic, Bulls, Heat, in Philadelphia...travel to Atlanta to face off against the Hawks, and then they will once again defend home court against the Lakers next Monday, San Antonio next Wednesday, and the Clippers to round out that week on Friday.

Philadelphia is a good team, however the knock on the young squad is that they have beaten the best of the worst from around the league, including the Washington Wizards twice by large margins. Okay so the schedule has been fairly kind, but if the 76ers are going to advance further than the first round of the playoffs, then this upcoming stretch will provide a glimpse of their future possibilities.

They play a fast-paced run and gun style with a decent half-court pressing defense. Things have continued to change for the better under the direction of Doug Collins, and while most teams have at least one All-Star, the 76ers have established a good team first philosophy with some emerging names and tough role players. Time will tell if this is a recipe for success in South Philly, but with a 14-6 record at the time of my writing this piece...that's not such a bad start.

Words: @axgilbert

Photo: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

America's Team

"Walk inside the lion's den...take everybody's chips, about to cash them in..."

Nas - Success

Mother's Day, 2011 - Los Angeles is swept out of the playoffs, and it was Dallas that provided a glimpse into their imminent achievement.

Teamwork

The Mavericks are the NBA champions, and while a lot of people thought the series would go in a different direction...it was the total team effort that delivered the Mavs their first title in franchise history. Perhaps it was the star power and top billing of the Heat that over shadowed their stellar play...nonetheless, the 3-point shooting, rebounding, and zone defense allowed Dallas to split the first pair of games, and then travel home to capture 2 of 3...setting the stage for the105-95 win in Game 6.

Jason Terry was the catalyst for everything the Mavs were able to do in the final game, while Dirk Nowitziki, was the constant throughout the series...playing through a sinus infection, fractured finger, and ridicule. In the end, his team laughed last, leaving south Florida with the agony of defeat.

I doubt that I will ever fully comprehend Miami's lack of aggressiveness in the deciding game, however I will give full credit to the Mavericks' defense, and to the victor go the spoils.

My only concern at this moment is an NFL and NBA lockout...which of course is a horse of a different color.

Words: @axgilbert

Photo:  Mark Ralston/AFP PHOTO

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

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

Ring King

"Yeah I'm up in the best class...you can't last..."

Freeway - Don't Act Like You Don't Know

The NBA season is very young, and it will be a few months before things start to take shape...however I firmly believe that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Rage against the machine

The Miami Heat, Rajon Rondo, Blake Griffin, Kevin Garnett, and NBA 2K11 have attracted headlines and highlights near and far, nevertheless it's the Los Angeles Lakers that have been flying under the radar with the league's best record at 7-0.

On opening night, a friend of mine tweeted that he didn't see the passion and fire in Kobe's eyes, and that the Lakers reign will come to an end this year. I sent a friendly response to disagree with him, and set the record straight. I've known Kobe Bean for several years, and he is one of the most competitive persons I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. The team's mission is to win the NBA Championship, and it's Bryant that sets the tone.

Last Saturday my friend Vic, a writer for the Associated Press, texted me saying "I told Kobe that you said what's up..." My response was: "Kobe is family, and thank you...what did you say?" At which Vic responded, "I saw him right before the media crowded around, and I said hey Kobe, Anthony Gilbert says what's up...he smiled and said that's what's up!"

It's been a while since I've seen him, so thank you Vic for playing the messenger, and to Kobe...I'll see you next month...in the meantime...keep up the good work, and I'll be sure to support.

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

Above and Beyond

"We're chillin' like a villain..."

Andre 3000 - Da Art of Storytellin', Pt. 1

Sports have long been the metaphor to our lives...like a mirror sharing our reflection, athletics are much more than winning and losing. This summer LeBron R. James, made a decision to play in South Florida...and everything from that moment changed forever...or has it?

October

"I got a decent set of manners, and a job that fills up any empty schedule or planner..."

Drake - Unstoppable

This is my favorite time of the year because it usually means that the Yankees are in the World Series.

Brand New

April and October are the best months for baseball because they signify both the beginning and the end. The Yanks will not play to defend their '09 crown, and part of me can appreciate that nothing is guaranteed in life, and the Bronx Bombers can begin preparing now for next year.

As for the Philadelphia Phillies...they lost too, so as far as I'm concerned...it's officially basketball season. I expect the Los Angeles Lakers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Orlando Magic, and Boston Celtics to play and battle on a higher than average level...while the Miami Heat have endless potential that will make this first season watching them one to remember.

I want to wish the San Francisco Giants, and Texas Rangers all the best in the fall classic, however when Game 1 begins on Wednesday...I plan to watch the 76ers play against the Heat.

Baseball season ended a little early for me, however the spring will be here before you know it, and all will be well with the world again.

The NBA saga however...continues on October 26th.

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

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

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.

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."