Rivals Are Something, Huh?

You know the main premise of the San Antonio Spurs among those of us who watch at least a significant amount of basketball? I’ll quit pulling your leg, it isn’t that hard: The Spurs are boring. That’s the first thing that comes out someone’s pie hole when they speak on the Spurs, they’re good, but they’re boring. Been hearing it for years, and to be honest, can’t really blame people, cause it was true. At least until this season; but for me, it took until this season, hell, a week or two ago to feel this way about my Lakers’ closes rival of fourteen seasons (Has it really been fourteen seasons and thirteen years of me hating the Spurs? God!). I believe it’s so annoying to always cough up that same horrendous excuse to not watch the Spurs. There’s always been complaints to Spurs nationally televised games on timelines and blog posts the past few years. Because they’re “boring.” Granted, they have the most boring superstar ever in Tim Duncan who is without a doubt the greatest power forward ever, in a small market like San Antonio and have a couple of the worst NBA Finals ratings in my lifetime at least (2003 & 2005), but this 2012 team, is far from those.

My strong dislike for the Spurs stems from the last lockout shortened-season 1999 when the twin towers (Duncan and David Robinson) swept my Lakers out the semis and shut down the Forum, which they went on to win their first of four championships in the Era of Timmy. I remember after that Game 4 lost, being less than two weeks shy of my ninth birthday, going outside with my mini Lakers ball sitting on the sidewalk as the sun was setting in agony over the sweep. I didn’t even know much then, all I knew was I hated Duncan, Robinson, Gregg Popovich and the Spurs. Period. I rooted against them the rest of the way only to have that stunned look I’ll never forget when it was all over at the Garden. Then over the course of these thirteen years since then, the Lakers and Spurs transformed into a great western conference showdown of a rivalry, meeting six times (’99, ’01, ’02, ’03, ’04 & ’08) to when more that likely the winner went on to win the title (Except 2004 & 2008). This rivalry has produced the greatest teams and some of the best moments in NBA history.

After all these years, and the wars against those guys, truly thought with them falling in the first round to the Memphis Grizzles last year was the end of them and their run, I was even playing this in the closing moments of their defeat. But their back, and perhaps better than ever. No, seriously, I think this 2012 Spurs team, even with the aging Timmy, is better than those four previous title teams. Those teams were defensive first, “we’re going to shut you down” teams, this team is deep with an endless amount of weapons at Popovich’s disposal. I didn’t realize it until the end of the Jazz series, all those guys can hit from three; Parker, Leonard, Green, Neal, Captain Jack, Bonner, Diaw and of course. That genius Popovich built this team of young guys who can shoot from three to spread the floor around his aging superstar power forward and his fellow international all-star sensations; turned them from a defense first, “boring” team to a diverse, “We will shoot you out the building if you try us” team. They rely on those three’s heavily, 38% during the regular season and 41% so far in the postseason. Knew back in March when they added Boris Diaw and bought back Stephen Jackson this team would be a problem. Guess this is the return from Popovich being upset at Pau Gasol’s, at the time, hijacking in 2008. Surely didn’t think back in 1999 I’d be saying this: It’s simply beautiful watching the Spurs. These guys are running that offense fluently, their passing, finding the open man every time, like Kenny say on TNT, they surgically cutting you up. That’s what they did to the Jazz, Clippers and currently do it to the Sonics.

So, are they still “boring?” Obviously not, especially to us basketball junkies who watch this game day in and day out. Defense win titles — and they’ve proven it — but they’re on to something different, doing it a different way, doing it through precision passing, a deep bench, open three point shooters, deadly beat-you-off-the-dribble all-star guards like Parker and Ginobili, and of course, #TimeMachineTimmy. I truly enjoy watching these guys play, it’s really special as a fan of basketball in general. And, you can really feel it, it’s their year, just like it was the last shorten-season, and in 2003, 2005 and 2007. The whole “I want some nasty!” just feels like the cornerstone piece of their championship DVD which will be out in mid July.

Yes, a Zombies/BFF’s Finals would be exciting and great (Especially for the post game presser wardrobe; you know Twitter would break), but seeing this Spurs team marching on, continue to kick ass (They’ve won 20 consecutive games over the past seven or so weeks, by the way, last lost was to who again? Had to throw it in) straight to a fifth title wouldn’t be that bad. Remember: It’s the LeBron actually winning a ring thing I’m trying to figure out (If it was to ever happen…) if I can live in that world. However, I just don’t want these guys to beat my 2001 Lakers Playoff record, though.

The Sequel to the Air Yeezy’s and Possible More Insanity On My Part

I am not a sneakerhead. I am NOT a fucking sneakerhead! Seems like I end up saying those two sentences somewhat often, but maybe I’m in denial. Maybe I am one. Not one of those hardcore sneakerheads who put Jordans/Foamposites/Kevin Durant Easter kicks/Other various sneaker release dates in their iPhone calender with a scale of a one to ten rating next to it; (I’m no better, I have them as my screensaver wallpaper). But I am one who can have certain shoes obsess my mind, my logic and my bank account.

Three years ago, the first Air Yeezy’s came out, sort of felt like I got swept up into the hype of the most anticipated shoe to be released that year — a Nike shoe, by a rapper, which was set at a retail price of $250. Stood in line early — but not early enough — at Millenium Shoes to only swiftly hop in my car to go to another Millenium to even less pairs availability. Eventually got my pair — not my first colorway choice — on eBay, and we all know how those ruthless, money bloodsucking assholes can be. How much did I pay? Well, let’s just say, it’s north of the retail price, but worth every penny.

Though I feel I’m not one of them annoying, idiotic sneakerhead fools who’ll rather have an exclusive shoe on their feet than dinner in their gut, I think I’m not that far away from as Yeezy Season tips off. People have mistaken me for one a few times, but I always got offended upon so. Kanye West, my favorite artist and co-idol with the Chokester Kobster, second opportunity at a shoe over at the place formally called Blue Ribbon Sports is releasing sometime next month and as news/rumors regarding them have slowly come out over the past several months, I’ve felt the slightest excitement for their anticipation which have liven me up like no other of late (Outside of Pujols coming to the Halos last December– then of course he kills it with his unbelievable season starting drought).

And now we’re so close to this thing finally happening, I’m actually thinking of getting out the Air Yeezy II Race of Death and think of priorities. New car? New place to live? New computer? New girlfriend? [Take the latter how you want]. But I’m turning twenty-two in two weeks, I feel like Allen Iverson, “We’re talking about priorities.. PRIORITIES!” I’m in the last couple of weeks of twenty-one, what do I care about priorities, especially when talking about sneakers. But when you think about it, paying a possible $300 plus for shoes [Again?], is, uhhh, do I even need to say… Fucking crazy! When I told my girlfriend at the time of my eBay purchase of the first ones three years ago she was, like, “*Insert real amount here*, for some Nikes?” Was on the phone and I felt a Cam Face staring a hole through me.

So, as I’m going back and forth between maturing and acting like a typical vanity filled college student, I’m not sure what to do. I know what I want to do, and I know what’s the right thing, but I’m not good at right things, and I’m very good and doing what I want to do, obviously. I can totally see myself camping out for those things while sharing Air Yeezy One stories with the other idiots like these waiting with me. I’m even of thinking applying to the higher end retailers who’ll sale them simply to get first dibs. Then again, I can totally see myself ignoring all of it, not let the hype get to me and go on with my business. But than again, I am in my twenties, this is the decade we’re suppose to make the shittiest mistakes and decisions (I mean, look at Chris Brown, he’s the standard), regret them in our thirties and learn from them in our forties, right? That’s the cycle as far as I’m concerned. So… I… will…

Oh, God! Think I’m starting to hate Yeezy Season just much as I’m starting hate myself. Guess it will be a Cruel Summer after all… *Goes out and buys a cheap lawn chair*

The Worst Feeling Ever.. Well Sort of

When your favorite player — the best player on the team, your leader, your heart and soul does the unthinkable.

Every thing was going right. The perfect gameplan implemented by Coach Mike Brown was working. The usually loud college atmosphere crowd was in stone cold silence and disbelief. The jump shot happy Zombie Sonics couldn’t make their shots. The seven footers were being fed a heavy diet and were being aggressive while doing so. Then, with two minutes remaining, leading by seven, on their way to stealing what they went down to Seattle Oklahoma City for, a 1-1 series split with homecourt in the side pocket of their carry-on’s, the unthinkable happened. The Ultimate Closer, choked away all of it.

Wait, what?!!!?!

James Harden goes in to cut the lead to five; the Kobster gives away the ball to Kevin Durant’s like he did the scoring title which leads to a break-away jam. Following Lakers possession, Steve Blake attempts to give Kobe a pass with heavy Sonic defense along the sideline that goes right through his hands Bill Buckner-esque right out of bounce and right back to OKC. Mr. I Don’t Believe in Shaving himself takes to the rack yet again with under a minute left to slice LA’s once comfortable seven point lead down to one. After a Kobe missed jumper, KD comes back and hits a driving floater over the seven footers to give the zombies the lead. With 5.7 ticks left, Blake gets the best look he’d get all night while Russell Westbrook was caught napping, and couldn’t take advantage. Lakers go down 77-75, and fall to 0-2 heading back to Los Angeles, the Playoff Capital of the World. Cold water is going to have to suffice in that side carry-on pocket, I guess.

That was the last two minutes and eight seconds of Game 2. Of course, it felt like two hours of down right torture. And being on Twitter didn’t help. The anti-snaring tweets make you feel like you were there in OKC at The Chesapeake Arena with nineteen thousand zombie fans berating you. This was worst, though. The one guy you trust with your season basically on the line, *Gulps* Dare I say *Gulps again* Chocked! Yes, it’s a team effort, but as much as it pains me to say, my Kobe Bean perhaps choked away the season. They played so perfect, and to come up short, how? There is a rule in the playoffs, you don’t give away games. You just don’t. And that’s what the guys in purple done did. And it’s all on Kobe, with the key turnovers down the stretch, the missed shots, can’t get open on the Blake missed three play; altogether: 0-5 from the field, 0-2 from three, (officially) one turnover and one foul in the final six minutes of Game 2. It was so surreal.

Everyone knows my disdain for LeBron, on the day LeBron gets hammered after falling short in late game circumstances once again; I was salivating knowing how LeBron was going to get slammed all day, led by Top Troll himself, Skip Bayless. But on this day, Kobe decides he wants to challenge LeBron in the most unthinkable way possible. He perhaps one-upped him. I believe the LeBron lovers should call him their, “Not five, not six, not seven guy,” while I call Kobe my, “Top five, top six, top seven guy” insinuating his undeniable top seven players of all-time feat (Depends on who you ask, but we all know it’s true). But my “Top 5…,” my ultimate closer, my childhood hero totally let me down. Let the entire [annoying] fanbase down in the matter of two in game minutes. Shocking.

I believe this is worst than a Game 4 2008 Finals size choke job, worst than a Game 6 obliteration for a clincher in the Wannabee Boston Garden, even worst than a Game 4 rollover to complete the sweep of Phil Jackson into retirement last spring. All that was horrible, but this, this leaves an even worst taste in my mouth for some reason. Maybe cause I know it was all at the hands of my guy. My guy I’ve rode on through thick and thin all these years, and he let me down in these circumstances. It’s one thing to come in, less than forty-eight hours after an emotionally draining Game 7 victory, to fly to Oklahoma — which is like the middle of nowhere for all I know, with roaming ghosts — get thumped in Game 1 by twenty-nine, come out for Game 2, play a perfect game against the better, younger team, and blow it away, it’s mentally and emotionally draining; will be difficult to come back from. “It’s a tough loss, yes,” Kobe tells in his postgame presser. “..Now it’s on us to go back home and defend out home court.” Agree, however, Games 3 and 4 will be on back-to-back nights, basically playing into the SuperSonics’ young and athletic advantage.

I honestly don’t know what’s going to happen next in this series. Yes, my guys can dig from under all the Kobe debris and find the little positives from this debacle, take it one game at a time, somehow feed off the playoff energy which will be at LA Live all weekend thanks to fellow tenants, the Kings and Clippers and reset the series going back to Oklahoma, or fall trying in Kobe’s second stab at tying MJ for six rings. But what I do know is: This hurts. It hurts deep down to the core. But you’re still and will always be my “Top five, top six, top seven,” Kobe. But after what you put me through tonight, leaving me with this epic fanatic sorrow feeling.. don’t even think about doing this again. Seriously. I refuse to have this feeling because of you again. Let’s leave this to the LeBron lovers.

Looking Forward to What Again?

For me, after a morning filled with packed La Cienega traffic for breakfast, a side of  light showers with no pulp, the beginning of my physical therapy which I only hope will resurrect my playing days, capped-off with another Halos chock job going into the afternoon, I’m suppose to be in a fairly good mood even though it’s 63 degrees out, sun is coming out even though it’s still a 10 percent chance of more rain (I hate the rain). It’s April 26th, the final day of this 66 Games in 120 plus day journey. One last day for twenty-six teams to leave one final mark on this truncated season–or one more day to squeeze more rest in before the playoffs begin this weekend, or end in grand fashion before going fishing for the summer.

But I’m not all that happy. Yes, it’s a good TV night, the first time since I can remember TNT has airing duties as the season pulls the curtain on its regular season. It’s Knicks/Bobcats on TNT, guys! That’s all you need to say (Sans other games with playoff implications). But what I was looking forward to seeing the most, Lakers/Kings from Power Balance Pavillion and seeing what Devin Ebanks and Jordan Hill can do for an encore. OK, maybe not them that much, but the Kobster, who only needs 38 points to win his third scoring title; he’d be the oldest to do so. We’ve been bombarded with the whole Metta World Peace/James Harden thing all week (I swear, I’ve seen the People’s Peace’s Elbow perhaps 385845032 times in four or five days already), and tonight was suppose to be a fun way for us to rid us from that hell. But instead, Kobe is apparently sitting out tonight’s season finale with his two seven footers and allowing Kevin Durant to win his third consecutive scoring title.

What a way to kill my Thursday evening. I might as well do some homework or get excited for tonight’s new episode of The Office. All week, the four letter network have been feeding us prestigious in-depth analysis of the scoring title race between the two, breaking down that stat like a fraction for simpletons and us who suck as math (Like me) to understand and keep up so we can know how much Kobe will need by Thursday after Durant eventually put up a final tally of 32 points to place his final scoring number average at 28.03 in a loss to perhaps the Lakers first round match-up, the Denver Nuggets. Well.. it’s Thursday, and he’s not playing? I’m, like most of our annoying fan base is upset. Yes, I’m glad they’re locked into the third seed much thanks to the Clippers’ Clipper-esque misfortune over the past week which makes tonight’s game meaningless as far as playoffs are concerned. But how fun would it been to see the Kobe System prevail for perhaps his final scoring crown, in that arena–ten years after the “Lost Champions” were crowned (Pun intended — That Game 7 was on my birthday, by the way), chase down KD in true Black Mamba fashion after the Durantula (So hate that name) snuck in the weeds all season then came up from behind to overtake him Sunday (You know, like how the Spurs did to the Thunder in the standings), especially after the humorous lunch table quote from February. Him go into that building he thought he shut down a year ago, perhaps get another crack at it while claiming his scoring title we all thought he wanted at the beginning of the season.

Exciting TV to say the lease, even for a “meaningless” game. Then again, maybe Kobe is right, he and we know he can go get it if he wants to, but that’s just it, he doesn’t want it. He’s been dropping hints all week saying he doesn’t care about, I’ve been saying he’s full of shit the entire time, but I guess I’m wrong. Guess “My Top 5, Top 6, Top 7 of All-Time” has truly grown up. But still, it would be exciting. It was something I was looking forward to. I mean, as a Lakers fan, not saying I don’t have faith in a parade down…, the chances of them winning the whole thing is quite slim right now. Then, what I’ve been begging for all season, a first round match-up with the champs for a little taste of redemption to return the dethroning favor is on the shoulders of the Hawks and my Kevin Love-less League Pass Timberwolves tonight.

It would be great for him to chase after the scoring title, especially with reminiscences of the great scoring race of David Thompson and The Doctor in 1978. And remember what he did eight years ago on the season’s final night to win the Pacific Division (At the Blazers and of course Kings’ expense)? Yeah, guess I have nothing to look forward to after all, especially the way things may be going in LAL’s favor with how the brackets are laying out. For me, I won’t be looking forward anything but a plethora of reverse jinxes and Kobe’s next visit back to Germany before the London Olympics.

What’s My At-Bat Theme Music?

America’s National Pastime threw out its first pitch this past weekend, so that means I’ll be splitting time from these crucial waning weeks of the NBA Season and my other obligations (See how I made it seem as if I’m so busy?) with catching Angels games. I usually don’t believe in watching baseball until at least after the All-Star Break, however, when you’re lacking of a personal/love life in the dullest of sports months, the summer, you tend to hit the clicker towards baseball. Last year, I caught myself watching perhaps the most baseball I’ve watched ever post All-Star Break as my Angels tried to hunt down the Texas Rangers in the AL West. Seeing almost ever game from latter July to the season finale, including being at a couple at the Big A; I plan on watching/going to even more this year with the addition of that guy with the cool goatee wearing number five.

So when you watch, or more so, when you go to games, you notice the song that plays every time a player comes up to bat. I’m calling it either the Coming-to-the-plate Song or At-Bat Theme Music. Whatever you call it, everyone’s is different — that is if they have one; Outfielder Garret Anderson and Catcher Jose Molina from my 2004 Angels had nothing play. It should be a song that represents you and only you; take a gander and marvel at the Dodger players’ songs, might I add you’d think Matt Kemp’s song would be Magic Johnson’s. It would suck having the same Batters-Up Jam (I kind of like that one, too) as your horrible catcher or dreadful left fielder who’s batting below .200 (Vernon Wells last season: .218; not a zing.. or is it?).

But like I was saying before, your At-Bat Theme Music represents you. It describes you within a seven second span. It should mean a lot to not only you, but the fans in the stadium when you’re coming from the batters box. It raises the energy of the fans in person, and raises the anxiety of the opposing pitcher even higher. Just like in wrestling, your theme music should describe your personalty, but send a message, much reason why my favorite wrestler  of all-time, The Undertaker’s (Who had his last match two weeks back at Wrestlemania XXVIII, and I’m glad I got to see it live courtesy the interwebz),eerie entrance made me like him more (And no not that bike riding bastard). Most times, it’s suppose to do something to the opponents mental psyche — I must throw in, this Stone Cold theme from 2001 would be mines if I was a wrestler.

Now we come to the reason of this semi impromptu post. What’s my At-Bat Theme Music? I went through my iTunes to find eight contenders for my Coming-To-The-Plate song, and, of course, it’s highly hip-hop influenced like the NBA, but David Stern isn’t here throw his weight around how he see fit when he can’t handle a little hip-hop culture. I tried to stay away from rock songs, though this almost made it:

1. Fishing Lessons – The Cool Kids: Not sure why I would want this as my Batter-Up Jam, mainly cause of Chuck Inglish’s unique out-look at and harder hitting production.
2. U Don’t Know – Jay-Z: What you’re more than likely going to need when it comes to your song is energy, and this song obviously bring that, especially from all the guys from Brooklyn in the stadium. It’ll make you want to knock triples left and right, triple off drug deal drops.
3. CDC – Dom Kennedy f/ Casey Veggies & cARTer: I personally still can’t believe how hard this knocks in headphones and high quality performance sound equipment. So you’re telling me it hits hard coming through speakers, and it gets pretty girls to dance, I’m sure it’ll have the guy on the hill in trembling a bit.
4. Grove St. Party – Waka Flocka Flame f/ Kebo Gotti: Speaking of getting pretty girls to dance. It perhaps don’t send the right message to the pitcher, but it does to everyone in the stands and picks the energy up, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it has me coming to the plate with that same pack of pretty girls behind me.
5. Scenario – A Tribe Called Quest: “Here we go, yo! Here we go, yo! So whats, so what’s, so what’s the scenario?!” It just makes you want to hit homers out the park and into every fan’s car windshield in the parking lot.
6. Touch The Sky – Kanye West f/ Lupe Fiasco: Seems like a sort of cliché though it would be a pretty good analogy of where you want the ball going, right? Sidebar: Lupe eloquently demolished those sixteen bars.
7. Who Gon Stop Me – The Throne: If a dubstep don’t get anyone out the seats and even the hot dog vendors dancing around in the aisles, I don’t know what will. And if I walked up that batter’s box with that Jay/Kanye mashed together face and that not scare the pitcher.. well.
8. Power – Kanye West: This is last simply because this would perhaps be the one I’d choose. The song means so much, and the video ”painting” means even more. He says towards the beginning, “I guess every superhero need his theme music,” this would be mines. Seemingly be the good bad guy who saves the game if in trouble late. I remember right before that album came out I wrote about what this song truly meant in-between the lines. I still think this is one of the best songs ever written, and would perfectly depict my vision in a song as I’m coming to the plate. We’d use that sinister laugh at the end every time for the pitcher’s walk off the mound in defeat.

Dare I say, OKC Doesn’t Scare Me Quite As Much

This season is so weird, but you don’t need me to say that. I mean, we chopped off sixteen games to squeeze in sixty-six in a hundred-and-twenty day window, we had the infamous vetoed trade, a plethora of injuries (Which will likely decide our champion, unfortunately), the Clippers being the number one ticket here in Los Angeles for a while before showing their true colors again, a Harvard grad saves the Knicks’ season and become a New York Legend in a New York minute, had a power forward win the 3-Point Shootout, you even have me going to games (four Clippers game), among more.

Another is me having for the first time NBA League Pass for the entire season instead of the two opportunities when they offer free previews. Having the choice to peruse around the L’s on the nightly basis picking through certain games to watch like it’s dessert section of a buffet. Between following the Lakers, of course,  the Timberwolves who I call, “My League Pass Wolves,” and a third team I spend more time watching than other teams is the west leading Thunder.

The youthful, yet deadly championship contenders of Oklahoma have their eyes set on running the NBA (Or at least the west for now) starting this season, and they command more than respect. They represent their entire state;  they’re the only professional sports team in the entire state. They’ve sold out every game, forty straight regular season games going back to last season. The last time they won a major championship was the Oklahoma Sooners winning the 2001 BCS Championship. That was eleven years ago, and was collegiate sports. Eleven years later, they have an opportunity of bringing a championship from one of the four major sports leagues.

After giving the Lakers all they could handle in the first round two years ago in their first playoff appearance together, then reaching the Western Conference Finals last season, these guys are seemingly primed to finally represent the west in the Finals this season. Their almost everyone’s favorite, however, I’m not sure right now. I mean, yes, they arguably have the best offense in the league, with arguably the best player/scorer, not to mention arguably the best point guard,  arguably the best six man ( with the best/worst beard depending on your preferences) and the best crowd, yet I’m still not sold. I feel like they’re the perfect video game team. Confession: I play with them on NBA 2K12. My record among the PS3 online no-lifers is 39-14; in fifty of the fifty-three games using them, I’m 39-11. That says a lot.

They have the perfect team for someone controlling them from a 6.77 oz remote: three players who can score over 25 at will, all can shoot from three — along with many others, two great rebounders/defenders (Perkins and Ibaka) who can ignite a break if the person controlling them know how to play. But as far as them getting out the west, I don’t think so. Of course this comes off the heels of two excellent wins for them in Friday’s Double Overtime win versus my Wolves, and Sunday’s showdown with the Heat, but I still don’t see it. It’s like all of us basketball junkies who watch basketball every waking minute and analyze things with great detail aren’t sold yet, but the one’s who watch, yet don’t watch enough and don’t see what we’re seeing to know how it’ll work when the playoffs arrive. It slows down, more half court offense, less fast breaks, stuff the Thunder would rather go without.

The Hang Time Blog over on the NBA’s website did a great breakdown of the Thunder’s offense with Durant, Westbrook and Harden. When there in the half court offense, there going to get more jumpers and not enough easy baskets than anything. I thought it was really interesting what Durant said after Sunday’s game. “We were just trying to make them shoot jump shots, they’re great in the paint,” Durant told Lisa Salters. “They can pass the ball once they get in the paint. So we just tried to close that up and make them shoot jumpers.” Really, Kevin? Because I feel the same way with your team, as a matter of fact, you already do. And don’t get me started on those turnovers when they’re second in the entire league with 16.5. Turnovers hurt you you in the postseason, especially against teams can take advantage and get easy shots.

But I’ll admit, the D. Fish signing has me a little worried given the Lakers and Thunder can meet in the Western Conference Finals and it can come down to a last minute clutch moment, Thunder down three with twelve ticks remaining in Game 6 (LAL Leads series 3-2) here in LA. Westbrook drives the lane, kicks it to Old Man Fish in the corner, and before he catches and shoot, all of us Laker fans have flashbacks. I can totally see that happening. “I’m going to be so tight if we see them in the conference finals and he hits a big shot,” says Andrew Bynum. I concur. Yet, if they have a lineup of Fisher, Westbrook, Harden, Durant and Big man player X down the stretch like in last Friday’s game with Minnesota, That won’t help, trust me, us Lakers fans know that (Sorry, Fish).

I’m just not sold on OKC yet even after two impressive wins, mainly with what I’ve been accustomed to seeing and what wins in the playoffs over the years. However, it is a weird season, and if you’re going to tell me they can get this same offensive production by mostly three people, running it down opponent’s throats (Especially at home), then we might as well give them their Western Conference crown now. I’ll have no problem wearing this hat I bought last month, and wearing every day of the Finals rooting for them against the BFF’s.

In the Midst of All This Basketball… So Much Football??!!

We’ve been in football’s off-season for about a month now, and of course the World Wide Leader in Sports chooses to shove the NFL down out throats like Apple is doing with the iPhone 4S commercials — I have one, but seemingly every other commercial I see is Siri being a chatterbox. But, wait… it’s only March and the NFL Draft isn’t for another six-and-a-half weeks; wait until we get closer and closer to the weekend of April 26-28. I’m doing my annual preparing of hearing, “X Team is On the Clock!” I mean, I can’t be the only one who notice ESPN still airs NFL Live during the off-season, right? I love the NFL as much as the next lazy American who couldn’t play it, but once we’re in the off-season — and well into the best time of the year filled with so much basketball (March: Championship Week into NCAA Tournament; and April to June: Tail end of NBA Season into Playoffs and beyond) going on, I don’t want to even hear anything about football, especially after SB XLVI.

Yet, I know this Peyton Manning release by the Colts is our 21 by Adele sports chart topper, but what’s annoying to me is the Bounty Scandal with the Saints. Just the other day, they had some wide debate on it. I’m, like, “Wait, what?” Yet, don’t know what’s worst: That fact they’re doing this as if it’s somewhere in between September through February or how someone can say Spygate was worst.

Yes, Spygate is wrong and Belichick was caught cheating which is terrible and unthinkable already, however, placing bounties on quarterbacks (Who are almost as defenseless at times as kickers) in hope to have them hurt in any possible fashion is utterly despicable.  It’s players safety, you know, amid this frightening concussion phenomenon where former players commit suicide in their later age because they didn’t have the precautions and head trauma  knowledge back in their playing days. Someone is paying these defenders a significant amount of money to not only injure the opposing QB, but increase the amount if they have them carted off? It’s players safety, people. Football is already the most violent sport.

I understood Brett Farve saying what he did, though I believe he was trying not make it such a big deal, especially given his résumé of bigger-then-it-should-be deals in the latter end of his career. And I also understand while other players — mostly former defensive players — disagree, but c’mon. Yes, I know this happens all the time and the Saints, my second most disliked team in the NFL, got caught, but it doesn’t make it right. We’re taking about someone’s health, safety and well being here.

Then sometimes, I feel people will say Spygate is worst cause it’s Bill Belichick. Cause he’s so rough around he edges, and until leading up to the Super Bowl last month, we never seen his light, more humorous side. Hell, most didn’t think he even had a funny bone in his body. But cause some feel he’s arrogant and all this other stuff, people feel some sort of disdain towards him. Why I feel people will love to stick it to him no matter what; and even keep something over his head simply for person why chooses to show to us compared to others. Let’s be honest, the Saints are basically America’s team after Hurricane Katrina, and rightfully so. But that doesn’t give that team a pass simply cause their city suffered arguably the worst natural disaster in history, for hurting people to win.

Cheating is wrong, and so is placing bounties on players for money, if not beyond worst. If only people can look past some stuff, and look into the light and not feel a certain way towards Belichick as much as people do. Then again, maybe not for some of these people. People will defend the Saints no matter what and continue to bash Belichick forever. If that’s the case, the hot prom queen surely doesn’t have a chance.

The Inaugural NBA Ramblings

What my preferred goal for this blog is to have a least one sort of column/post going up at the end of every week, however, that of course, like many things in life, doesn’t happen as planned, especially since I’m two weeks into school along with other obligations, not to mention a tiny bit of laziness. So, what I’m going to do is, every other, or every two or three weeks, do a little something I’m dubbing NBA Ramblings. Whenever I don’t have enough of something to hover around the 800-1000 word ballpark, I’ll simply throw it in this series of different things which have caught most of my attention/is on my mind from the NBA. It’s something similar to my DJ’s Random Shit series on Tumblr; whenever I didn’t have enough for one post, or had a plethora things going, I’d bullet them there. So, we’re gonna attempt to do this series here. Hope it’s as least entertaining as hell to me and sticks. Let’s Begin:

• Linsanity! The most talked about story in sports. I’ve totally been swept into to it like everyone else, even after his 38 point 7 Dime explosion against my Lakers last week at the Garden. I’ve heard the electricity that night was so astonishing, it was similar to Lakers/Celtics, Game 7 of the 2010 Finals. This whole Linsanity run wasn’t even at its stride at that point, but it was after that nationally televised game. I’ll admit, it really put me in a funk for the remainder of the night and even carried over to the next day. Now I know how all Tebow’s victims from this past season felt. I had no idea what happen that night; and of course, I put all the blame on Kobe opening his mouth the previous night saying he didn’t know what he’s done. Well, Kob, you do now! It even got him and five of my Lakers on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Thanks, Jeremy! But seriously, it’s utterly amazing how they’ve flipped to this seven game winning streak mostly because of Lin finally getting a opportunity. Obviously a great story, and great for the league, just like Tebowmania, and I know I’m not the only one who hope it last as long as it can. And just like Tebow, he got his own tab on the ESPN Bottom line, I’ll simply be upset if the NBA don’t have a Jeremy BIG promo commercial by this weekend. And the magic is real, too. I realized it when I played someone online in NBA 2K12 a couple nights ago. I play with the Thunder (I know, I know), and someone of course, played with Knicks, and I had issues all game. I can usually blow out people with OKC or eventually beat them, but I never got into my groove against them. Even if Jeremy was pretty much a non-factor. I got the W, but still, really intriguing. But let’s all pray the Black Hole, Carmelo Anthony don’t ruin it when he returns to the lineup.
• I’ve had NBA League Pass for a full month now and I’m quite content. I still feel they should have dropped the price down as a common courtesy to fans for sticking through the lockout, and also feel Stern got over on yet another Lakers fan, but I’m thrilled. It’s great to go back-and-forth to from all the games (And ignore the wiZARDS & Bobcats of the league), especially in this shorten-season where there are great games every night. I love it to the point I actually want an iPad now so when I’m on the go, I can watch via that instead of my iPhone simply for its bigger screen. You notice so much like: A significant amount of players wearing the Allen Iverson inspired shooting sleeves every game; so many players wearing Kobe’s (A prevalent amount wearing the VI’s and a few wearing the current VII’s), and even the local broadcasters. Jesus help me with Stacey King.
• Can we get rid of or at least modify these little too common/predictable NBA occurrences? The likes of playing House of Pain’s Jump Around and/or Kris Kross’ Jump at all Jump-balls in arenas; playing Hit The Road Jack when players get ejected; and Gun & holster celebrations after big shots. I know it’s been done for so long and fans are synonymous with, but can we change it up? Let’s play Game’s Higher jump balls, or play Kanye and Common’s My Way Home when you foul out no matter if you’re at home or on the road or not. And as far as the guns & holster celebrations, one person comes to mind these days who should trademark it, Russell Westbrook. He always adds a little bit to it, besides, I wouldn’t be surprised if he’d use one on Mr. Durant one of these days (Couldn’t resist). Why don’t some cook after hitting a big shot in pressure moments? You seen Westbrook’s cheeks? Why not?! You’d think Joakim Noah would cook rather than the guns & holsters thing, but whenever he does things, you never know what you’re going to get with him. His free throws for some reason remind me of an intoxicated Kangaroo. Speaking of, why haven’t I gotten a date with your sister, Joakim?
• Kris Humpries! I really like the guy, though I’m probably in the minority. I mean, he plays well, he’s a walking 15 and 13, he always has activity, I think he deserves every bit and maybe more of his $8 Million this year. But I just don’t understand: How can he be the most disliked player in the NBA and fifth most in sports. I understand Tiger, Vick (unfortunately) & A.Rod… but Humpries??? Over a stupid reality show and stupid short-lived marriage. Well, I guess The Kardashians have brainwashed America, cause how can he get more boos than LeBron going from city-to-city? Though, unlike LeBron, I’m sure Kris can thrive in these sour reactions. He’s the perfect heal, can’t say the same for LeBron, oh…..
• LeBron saying he wouldn’t rule out going back to Cleveland doesn’t surprise me. Antwan Jamison couldn’t believe he made those statements public after everything that has happen. Yet, “Three years down the road, it wouldn’t surprise me if he entertains it,” Jamison said. Exactly. Nothing surprises me with this guy. I believe he is trying to deflect boos for tonight’s game in Cleveland, him continuing to make some sort of peace with Cleveland. I wouldn’t blame them if they hate him forever, then, like him again when he goes back. I still believe his only getting two rings at most out of this, yet.. if they don’t win this year, Pat Riley should blow up the Big 3.
• I defended the Dunk Contest all the time though I know it’s on life support and the verge of extinction. Then Blake Griffin seemingly rejuvenated it a year ago (Though I still feel that car dunk was overrated as Dwight’s infamous Supeman Dunk), but now it’s back to where we left it after the horrible 2010 contest which spawned this Top 10 Chuck line, equivalent to the Bobcats.. why do we have it again? (Happy Birthday, MJ!) I’m not upset that Blake decided to pull a Vince Carter, put on a great show then not even come back to defend it. Nor the semi pedestrian field, but the new rules. Only one round, three dunks, no judges, us the fans choose? Um, no. It’s going to be a popularity contest. Don’t they remember Yao was voted into Starting Center Slot in the West eight times (seven straight years), even when he was injured? If we’re going in this direction, we might was well get rid of it.
• There has been many times the past couple of weeks when I’m either at Clippers games or simply watching them on TV watching Chris Paul work his magic and getting upset making me want to dropkick someone knowing that should be my starting point guard. And I didn’t like the initial Vetoed trade. But he’s done so much for the Clips that I surely, though I’m all in with disliking them so much and wishing they lose every game, wish he was my PG, especially with LAL’s struggles this season. He truly has been the best closer this season. Maybe that veto trade was revenge from Mitch’s hijacking of Pau four years ago.
• As far as my Lakers update goes: I’m sure Dwight isn’t coming here. Why should he? I know how much he does not want to follow in Shaq’s gigantic footsteps and come here, especially with Shaq saying every week on TNT he’s not the best center in the league. I think it’s a 12% chance (See what I did there?) he somehow comes here, so, this is what the Lakers should do: A) Trade Pau to the Rockets since they love him so much for Kyle Lowry & Luis Scola; B) Trade him to the Nets for Deron Williams [I mean, c'mon]; C) Somehow use the Trade Exception from the Lamar deal to get Jonny Flynn, Ramon Sessions, someone! or D) Somehow convince Aaron Brooks to sign for the minimum to win a title when he’s freed from Trapped in China next month. What’s the chances of any of this happening, maybe 15%-25%. And I feel that’s all too high. Oh, God.
• Speaking of Shaq, I’m not the biggest fan of him on TNT/NBA TV. Some of it is funny, but it just feels as he’s trying to much and not flowing right into EJ, Kenny and Chuck’s perfect chemistry. Maybe Simmons had a point when he said he thinks Shaq is a double agent for ESPN trying to ruin the success of Inside the NBA. I mean, it was border line perfect before Shaq, now.. well, all I’m saying is it isn’t anymore. Hopefully by the playoffs it’ll be a little more smoother. And why is are these former players/analysts wearing glasses now? First C-Webb whose looking like Lupe, and now 3D, Dennis Scott. If Inside the NBA comes on next week from Orlando with Kenny wearing glasses, I’ll be so done.

Sports isn’t difficult. You have two different perspectives: The players who play, do all the work, vie for bragging rights and sports supremacy among their brethren, and then there are fans, living through their freakishly athletic, sweat machine heroes. It’s great when fans get so enthralled in their team to the point they’re taking a loss harder then players would. That’s the grandest part of sports. When us fans can’t wait to go to work, school, or etc. the next day after our team we follow profusely more than the Presidential Election or our baby sister/brother in the park while playing with disgusting insects and stranger kids after you spotted a hot girl get a huge win to go gloat to friends (And enemies); or get so hurt and choked up when they lose they catch a bit of depression. It’s not just the Tim Tebow or Jeremy Lin stories of the world, but this is what drives sports, fans like these.  But yet, it can become a little difficult at times; and a little bit confusing.

Great example: Of course, I’m a Lakers fan. It should be in my blood and veins to totally despise the Boston Celtics and everything that has anything to do with Boston, the Boston Celtics, Boston Legal, The Boston Tea Party! That strong disdain originated in the late 50′s, flew right into the 60′s (Six Finals match-ups) and hit its strive, but shined brightly in mainstream during the NBA’s glory years of the 1980′s which spawned three NBA Finals match-ups, two transcending superstars (Magic & Bird), and one clothesline from hell. Do I hate the Celtics? Of course. Especially after getting my first taste of the rivalry when it was renewed in 2008 with the Celtics defeating the Lakers in six games, I took it so hard. I was in a visible-physical funk most of the time and a more-than-most-of-the-time mental funk for the better part of two or three weeks after. But it was great, though. Leading to it, I knew the history and was so hyped, not just because the Lakers was back in the Finals after a four year hiatus and a rebuilding process, but back against our fan bases most hated rival. Just living through and carrying on this rivalry twenty-one years later meant a lot. When me a friend of mines was at the Lakers Open Scrimmage at the Galen Center back in December, a guy next over grunted/booed when an implication of the Celtics or Boston was hinted or expressed during the game. I loved it.

So anytime I can throw a zing at the C’s — especially anchovy face himself, Inglewood’s own Paul Pierce — I do with great joy; I got a new nickname for them after they signed Mickaël Piétrus during Free Agency, Peaches & Bengay, you know, since Piétrus’ nickname is “Peaches” (Well, at least to Charles Barkley), and since they’re the fourth oldest team in the league, which I was inspired by my favorite 112 song. But do I have that same hate for Boston, Mass? Come back to me. I mean, when I was listening to that BS Report with Flea a month ago, hearing the two share their scorn and jokes for their respective rival, that was great. I love hating the Celtics (Might I add I really enjoyed Celtic Pride, too), just like how a Celtics fan love hating the Lakers. It should be in our blood. But I don’t believe my disdain for the Celtics carries to the rest of Boston.

Super Bowl XLVI and Super Bowl XLII, I found myself rooting for Tom Brady, Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots to the point, I was actually down a bit after they was shocked again by the Giants as if it was the Lakers bowing out in an early playoff exit. I know Lakers fans who can’t stand the site of a Boston/New England team winning, Celtics, Pats, Red Sox, no one. I understand it, obviously, but I guess mines doesn’t extended pass the Celtics.. or the Red Sox (They beat my Angels in the playoffs is 2004, 2007 & 2008 but was a different story in 2009) to the Pats. I know there are Lakers fans who I’ve never even met who was so entrenched into those amazing Lakers/Celtics Finals meet-ups in the 80′s who could be having an old fashion Bitch Fit knowing I can root for a Boston/New England team given how big of a Lakers fan I am. Then again, I just like Brady & Belichick that much more, I guess. Who knows.

I respect all fans who display their disdain for their team’s arch rival to the tee like nothing else and let it carry through different sports… but I guess that isn’t in me. But I’ll tell you this, what is in me: Whenever the Lakers and Celtics square-off these days — especially after 2008 and 2010 — I get up as if it was June 9th, 1987, day of Magic’s famous Baby Hook shot of Twelve. Now that isn’t so difficult, nor confusing.

Oh, yeah. Lakers vs. Celtics tonight, huh? *Pulls out this tee from the depths of the 2010 Finals match-up*

How Hot is Pam Halpert?

“Dunder Mifflin, this is Pam.”

The only show I watch these days on network TV (Outside of New Girl, The Cleveland Show & The Simpsons, I’m telling you it’s getting crazy as the season rolls on) is The Office. Though it’s basically on its death bed midway into its eighth season, it’s spawning spin-offs and apparently losing more star components, its first without Steve Carell. I, among other hardcore fans of the show still watch during this transition period to find itself upon Carell’s departure, but this season has been difficult to watch. It’s sort of hard, though, the show is like great player who is aging. They’re clearly not as good as they once were, but they’re still getting away simply from their reputation. I didn’t start watching until last April or May. I ran through the six seasons Netflix had at the time in perhaps a week and a half. To this very day, I watch random episodes via Netflix (When I have Season 4-7 on DVD) perhaps every night. I pretty much laugh out loud, I yell out loud, and I almost cried — from even more laughter (You don’t really cry until you’ve seen Goodbye, Michael– Season 7/Ep. 148).

I just can’t get enough of the Boss who think he’s a comedian, and his main purpose is be liked and have so many friends. Can’t get enough of the Salesmen/Beet Farmer, or the Sassy Black Man and his crossword puzzles, the jubilant customer service associate or even the awkward Human Resources rep who is scorned by his boss. But there is surly one person I can’t get enough of out of the entire bunch. The Grey eyed, formally frizzy haired, art school dropout, legend of a receptionist turned saleswomen. The girl Jim Halpert swept off the fine Dunder Mifflin paper. That lucky, funny, freakishly tall bastard. He get’s to go home to with that everyday. We know how amazing Pam is courtesy of her great sense of humor with Jim (At the expense of Dwight) and her creativity (Her Art), but how hot is Pam?

Like on Prince Family Paper– Season 5/Ep. 85, when the office debated whether Hilary Swank was hot, apparently there is a difference between hot and attractive (Or at least to the lovable Kevin Malone); so, like they had photos of Swank plastered all over the wall of the office, we have our photos of Pam to go by, along with the seven seasons on Netflix; however, we’re going to go a little further, compare it to an athlete, my second favorite NBA player, Dwyane Wade. Translating a season of Dwyane’s to a respective season of Pam hotness on The Office. Let’s see how this goes:

• Pam Beesly’s Season 1/2 (S1 was only six episodes long so we’re going tack it onto S2), equivalent to Dwyane’s Rookie season, 2003-2004. New to the league, Dwyane showed every bit of those rookie legs, jumping out the building seemingly every night. Averaged 16.2 PPG, 4.5 assists, 4.0 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 61 games. Surprised everyone by not only getting to the playoffs, but advancing to the second round (Where LeBron was at home not tasting the Postseason yet– I had to throw in a shot). Pam, new TV hottie (I hate that term, by the way) on a young show given a chance and surprisingly exceeding expectations, same as Dwyane. We were just getting acquainted with the frizzly haired receptionist of Scranton.
• Pam’s Season 3, equivalent to D-Wade’s eighth season, first with best friend LeBron, the 2010-11 season. Dwyane brings on LeBron & Bosh to commence “Buddy Ball” down on South Beach; you’d think he had to concede some of his great stats bringing on two other All-Stars, but his stats seemingly didn’t change. 25.5 PPG, 4.6 helpers, hit the glass for 6.4 clean-ups, 1.5 thefts & 1.1 blocks; he even shot a staggering 50 percent from the field. As for Ms. Beesly, who recently breaks off her engagement with Roy and had trouble adjusting to Jim’s transfer in the early episodes. She then has her biggest competition for office Hottie (Once again, can’t stand the term, but I have to use it) when Jim returns but brings Andy Bernard and Karen Filippelli with him over from Stamford midway into the season. I’ll go as far as saying Karen took the prestigious title from Pam. I mean, I clearly love me some Pam Beesly (I’m doing 1400+ word column/post on how Pam is hot.. just a reminder, you know), but Karen, though? Jesus. I always said Pam always looked great, but side-to-side next to Karen. Umm.. sorry, Pam, but she looked average. Dwyane had to take in LeBron and Bosh for the sake of the team and concede some individual stats. Pam had to take in Karen for the sake of the Dunder Mifflin team, she lost the O.H title.. and lost Jim until…
• Pam’s Season 4 (S4 was short-lived cause of the Writer Guild Strike which only produced 19 episodes. Technically 14, five episodes were an hour long), equivalent to Dwyane’s second season, 2005-2006. Dwyane upped his play after his rookie year. Still jumping/dunking over everything, using that killer crossover on all defenders who tried to defend him. Had more eyes on him, especially since they got Shaq in the offseason, and shined all the way to Game 7 of Eastern Conference Finals. PPG 24.1, 6.8 dimes, 5.2 boards, 1.6 steals & even 1.1 blocks that season. This was the season I felt Pam begun her growth. She finally started dating Jim, (Yet like Dwyane, had more eyes on her) ditched the frizzy hair, and even wore some horrible glasses in Did I Stutter– Season 4/Ep. 69 that didn’t do anything but enhance my weird fantasy involving a women wearing classes in a library or office. All over the receptionist desk.. yeah.. oh, wait. Sorry, Jim
• Pam’s Season 5, equivalent to D-Wade’s 2005-2006 season. Dwyane’s stats, for the most part, were same as the 2005 season but his PPG increased to 27.2. Gave out 6.7 dishes, 5.7 off the glass and 1.9 steals. 2006 was the year Dwyane became a superstar and stitched his name in Finals lore after the performance he put on against Dallas to win the NBA Title. Not his best individual year, but his team’s best. So why not compare it to perhaps The Office‘s best season, S5. Pam the person continued to evolve a bit, she was in art school away from Jim for a portion of the season, and even went out on a huge, frail limb quit the receptionist gig to help Michael start a new paper company. As far as looks, she basically added on a bit from S4, then on the season finale, her, Jim and the rest of the office gets a unexpected present that would basically give us the result of her best season…
• Pam Beesly to Pam Halpert’s Season 6, equivalent to Dwyane’s best season, 2008-2009. Dwyane didn’t have the best talent around him, therefore, he had to put better numbers so his team to have a chance every night. In the process, he averaged 30.2 PPG (1st Scoring title), 7.5 finds, 5.0 boards, 2.2 steals & 1.1 swats. That was always one of better stats for him, he average more blocks than traditional guards. Dwyane’s best stat year even earned him third in the MVP race behind BFF LBJ and the Kobster. The season Pam looked her best, in my opinion, her best statistical season, S6. She looked great! Her and Jim got married, her first full season from behind the receptionist desk and at the big boys Sales table, and of course… she’s pregnant. She looked great! Especially considering she was potentially at her worst cause she was bigger.. carrying the baby at 6, 7 or 8 months pregnant. Though she was still bigger than she normally is, she still looked good enough to player hate on Jim and their love.
• Pam Halpert’s Season 7, equivalent to Wade’s 2006-2007. More than likely Dwyane’s second best statistical season coming off his championship season. Finished with 27.5 points, 7.5 dimes (same as 2007 — best year), 4.7 rebounds, 2.1 steals & 1.2 turn-backs; not to mention Mr. Union Wade shot his second best percentage from field, 49 percent. And Mrs. Halpert, she’s back to little tiny Pam off her first pregnancy, and looking better than all the other season (excluding S6, of course). You catch her in more casual apparel this season, too, but honestly, the guy in me says this is her second hottest season much part to this.

Pam has evolved over the years (Not just her hair), she has grown into a great and positively attractive women. She has her times when she’s looks her absolute best, and she has her times when her worst is some women’s best.. but over years seasons, I — along with others — have loved every bit of it, and her. No matter if it’s Pam Beesly or Pam Halpart; Frizzy or straight hair; receptionist or saleswomen; she’s still our favorite. “You’re the complete package, Pam.” – Michael Scott — Frame Toby– Season 5/Ep.81. Michael couldn’t have been more right.