"Just Make it Count"

The Indecision II starring Dwight Howard...

2013-07-01T17:07:00.000-07:00

We all know Dwight Howard the playful kid too big to grow up. Always playful never a serious moment clown of the circus shoe. Well this time Howard better put on his big boy pants as the rest of his career could be on the line based on his next decision. Several teams including the Atlanta Hawks, Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets are looking to pry D12 out of L.A.. All five teams to provide a great opportunity for D12 to make several appearances in the NBA playoffs for years to come.

Atlanta Hawks represent an opportunity for D12 to play in front of his hometown fans and family members. Which is the exact reason why I don't imagine Howard moving back to Peachtree. Howard has been adamant in the "recent" past discussing his none desire to play in the city where he grew up. Maybe its the pressure of performing in front of his hometown fans or simply its because Atlanta provides the most mental distractions. Family members and friends can be bothersome especially when the entire city claims you as a family member or close friend. Minus the emotional distractions and his recent comments, I believe the Hawks provide Howard with an opportunity to be a perennial figure in the playoffs. Hawks would have a great low post tandem teaming Al Horford with D12 both athletes combined for 34.5pts, 22.6 rebs, and 3.5blks. Danny Ferry is a smart GM responsible for surrounding LeBron James with talent in his Cleveland days and one of the few individuals James respected in the Cavaliers front office. Ferry usually makes the best decision possible and can be trusted in Atlanta's rebuilding process. Will D12 buy-in?

If their is one team that NBA fans by storm during the 2013 NBA playoffs Coach Mark Jackson's Golden State Warriors was that team. Warriors are a young hungry and relentless never say die team, full of young talented sharpshooters. The exact formula D12 loves in a team, Coach Jackson commands respect from NBA athletes young and old. Mark is the type of coach you play for because you know he would do the same for you. His a mentor which is exactly what D12 needs from time to time. A Warriors contingent is set to meet with Howard on Tuesday July 2nd the contingent includes NBA Hall of Famer Jerry West. West serves as the Warriors Executive Board Member. Rumors have already started that the Warriors are offering Bogut, Thompson or Barnes in a sign and trade deal for D12. This compromises the integrity of the Warriors offering to trade Klay Thompson. Stephen Curry, Thompson and D12 would provide a close to unstoppable line-up for NBA teams to guard. Trading Thompson would lose some of the appeal D12 would have toward the Bay Area.

Mark Cuban the always outspoken Owner of the Dallas Mavericks. Dallas represents one of the most intriguing scenarios for Howard. Dirk Nowitki, Shawn Marion and Vince Carter would still be under contract with those contracts set to expire in the near future. Last time Dallas Mavericks won a postseason game was Game 6 of the 2011 NBA Finals. Teaming Nowitzki with Tyson Chandler and a slew of sharpshooting guards and swing men. Ironically that was the last time LeBron James Miami Heat lost a postseason series. Cuban knows how to use his personality and BIG MONEY to lure free agents and build a championship. Mavericks franchise would belong to D12 with less media scrutiny than Los Angeles the pressure would be lighter. If Dwight slips a little he won't get eaten up "just look at Tony Romo, Cowboys" Dallas fans are very forgiving. Plus Cuban is a marketing genius and Howard would still posses larger than life status in BIG D.

Sports media reports are jumping off the charts with rumors that D12 is gone, his already left L.A. for Houston. Unless you live in Howards head which can be a very drama filled and confusing location no one knows who has the upper hand. Nonetheless Howard did meet with the Houston Rockets first thing Monday "after speaking with Lakers GM Mitch Kupchack" morning at 12:01am EST/ 9:01 PST. Rockets launched off with face to face discussions with the coveted center as NBA Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon, Yao Ming (video) and Dikembe Mutombo spoke with Howard in Los Angeles. The Rockets sold their international marketing base to Howard as Yao created a video message in China. It's true with Yao, Mutombo, and Olajuwon the Rockets have been able to thrive on the back of great center pieces. All three athletes were born overseas. The thought of having Hakeem "The Dream" Olajuwon as a mentor and teaching post moves is a dream come true an opportunity to take your game to the net level. Hakeem provided the Rockets with back to back NBA Championships in the league absence of Michael Jordan. Oh yeah almost forgot, James Harden, Chandler Parsons and Jeremy Lin are also good teammates. The possibility of teaming Harden and Howard keeps Kevin McHale up at 3am in the morning designing plays with thought after thought and endless possibilities.

Then there's the Los Angeles Lakers where everything they present can either scare you away running headed to Texas or you can embrace it and fall in love. The pressures of Hollywood along can be a double edge sword do bad and celebrities will talk about you on TMZ do great and the keys to everybody will be placed in your hands you will feel like your walking on liquid water. Movies, T.V. Shows and endorsements can make you the most popular and sought after player in NBA history. Performing under the names in the high Staples Center's rafters could also be a huge emotional kill one can fall under the pressure struggling live up to Wilt Chamberlain, Abdul-Jabbar, and Shaquille O'Neal. D12 woulld be expected to perform at a lager than life level and Howard's record shows that he fades and pouts his way under pressure. Signing with the Lakers would provide the most pressure than any other team but not resigning would show that Howard is a player not born to commit. Lakers franchise has won a NBA Championship or appeared in the NBA Finals every decade since the NBA was born If this game is truly about winning Los Angeles is the place but then again the thought of possibly failing to meet those expectations can be daunting. Los Angeles offers every opportunity D12 could have in the NBA including a 5yr $118 million contract 1yr and $30 million more than any other franchise can offer.

PREDICTION: Here's my list in reverse order (5) Warriors, (4) Hawks, (3) Mavericks, (2) Rockets, (1) Lakers. This all comes down to how much Howard feels the pressure of possible failure in Los Angeles. Movies, endorsements, TV deals, and 5yr $118 million isn't this difficult. Honestly I don't know who the better coach is Mike D' Antoni or Kevin McHale neither is a "Great or Horrible" commodity "wash". If Lakers had signed Phil Jackson this discussion doesn't exist. Jackson twitted that he expects D12 to get with the program. If the fear does exist Houston Rockets IPad presentation represents the best possibility.

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Clenaure Carter is now the Writer for http://www.football.com covering Georgia Tech Football

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NBA Draft 2013 Recap: They Stole the Show...

2013-06-28T07:57:00.000-07:00

On Thursday night the burrough of Brooklyn held the 2013 NBA Draft. The start to the NBA draft was full of surprises Nerlens Noel dropped to #6, Cleveland Cavaliers continued their impressive drafting streaking selecting UNLV's Anthony Bennett #1. Many pundits (except us) predicted Noel to be the #1 draft pick in 2013 they were wrong and Noel's family was shocked holding their breath as Noels slipped down from #1 to #6. Finally Noels was selected by New Orleans Pelicans appearing to team w/ another Kentucky athlete and former #1 draft pick Anthony Davis. After the selection Kentucky Coach John Calipari was interviewed giving vivid thoughts of a possible Davis and Noel duo in the NBA. Pelicans looked to have secured a young front court full of potential. A few minutes later Twitter exploded with reports of Noels being traded to Philadelphia for Jrue Holiday. After dropping from a perceived #1 draft pick to #6 then being traded from Pelicans to 76ers minutes later. Noel told USA TODAY Sports "oh I am going, to make them pay".

Nerlens Noel is from Haiti his mother worked several jobs just to put food on the table. Through all he has endured he never quit he never gave up on his dream. His mother told reporters that Noel has been dreaming of this day since he was a child. Noel suffered a season-ending ACL tear forcing the young Mc Donald's All American to miss most of the 2012 season at Kentucky. It was the ACL tear that caused Noels to rapidly drop in the draft the look on his face became memorable everyone including ESPN announcers were shocked "wow".

During a pre-draft conversation with Atlanta's Jarvis Davis of 92.9 FM "The Game" we discussed the the possibility of Noels not being the best fit in Cleveland. Reason's discussed Anderson Varejao and Tristan Thompson already provide a good level talent at the post positions. Minutes before the draft I sent a two word text message to the producer "Anthony Bennett". With his strength, size and athletic ability Bennett reminds many of another former "Runnin Rebel" Larry Johnson. Bennett is a more prepared polished player when compared to Noel and has the ability to defend the SF and PF positions. When called with the #1 draft pick Bennett appeared shocked and you can't Google one website in the world where "Mock Drafts" listed Bennett at #1. History was set last night at Anthony Bennett became the first Canadian selected #1 in the NBA draft.

David Sterns goal was global he wanted to reach places where the NBA was less known. Stern believed the basketball was an international sport that could catch fire around the globe expanding other countries from Canada to Nigeria. In the end Stern's dream was achieved, it all began in 1984 when the Houston Rockets selected Hakeem Olajuwon from Lagos Nigeria. It ended Thursday night during the 2013 draft when Stern called the surprising name of Canada's Anthony Bennett. Stern achieved his international goals the NBA has improved greatly international athletes have come from almost every continent since his commissioning except Antarctica of course.

The night should have ended with those three highlights Bennett, Noel and Stern but in the end the greatest immediate impact was felt when the Brooklyn Nets and Boston Celtics stole the show. The writing was on the wall Tuesday afternoon when the much anticipated trade of Celtics coach Doc Rivers was dealt to the Los Angeles Clippers. Celtics brass had already watched former BIG 3 band member Ray Allen jump ship last season to rival Miami Heat and win a Championship as the NBA Finals parade drove through South Beach on Monday. Then Thursday night the Celtics completed their overhaul sending Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett to Brooklyn. In the end Brooklyn hosted the 2013 NBA Draft and then stole the draft for keepsakes with a Mega Deal. It's possible Boston's received way too much compensation for the once heralded NBA athletes, their tanks are close to empty but for the immediate future Brooklyn Stole the Show....

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Clenaure Carter is now the Writer for http://www.football.com covering Georgia Tech Football

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NBA: Miami Heat Robbed of Competition

2013-06-13T16:59:00.001-07:00

For years it has been known that the NBA's Western Conference has been superior compared to its Eastern Conference foes. Western Conference offers the more recent legendary NBA franchises from Kobe's Los Angeles Lakers to Tim Duncan's San Antonio Spurs. For comparisons sake simply look at the 2012-2013 Western Conference playoff teams and an argument can be made that the "Top 6" teams in the conference could have challenged the Miami Heat. Fact is the road to the 2013 NBA Finals for the Miami Heat was full of opponents missing key components to their rosters. Chicago Bulls "no Rose", Indiana Pacers "no Granger" yet the mighty Heatles struggled for a combined 8-5 record versus those opponents in the playoffs, possibly playing to the level of their competition. .

No this is not a Miami Heat bashing or ripping apart of LeBron James. This is just a statement of the facts, the Heat simply faced less than adequate opponents in the Eastern Conference this season. When you rattle off 27 straight wins and your main regular season opponents consist of the Orlando Magic and Charlotte Bobcats a sense of superiority can settle in quickly. Now the Miami Heat are embattled in a fierce standoff against the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals. A battle that has the defending champions scratching their heads searching for answers. As the same tactics the Heat deployed against the Granger-less Pacers, Rose-less Bulls, incompetent Bucks, Orlando Magic and Charlotte Bobcats "geesh" simply will not work against the well dressed Spurs.

At the beginning of the 2013 season the Heatles appeared to meet the challenges presented by the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, Indiana Pacers and Boston Celtics four of the top teams in the conference. Unfortunately these teams all had significant injuries down the stretch of the regular season and into the playoffs. While the Pacers tested Miami's resolve the truth is the conference was flawed. It was the equivalent of shopping at the Louis Vuitton Outlet finding an awesome sales deal then arriving at the house to find out one sleeve was shorter than the other. While the Miami Heat found deals against less talented and injury plagued teams this season.The lack of competition in the Eastern Conference is now coming back to bite them in the end. It's not Miami's fault they are used to shopping at the wrong places.

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Clenaure Carter is now the Writer for http://www.football.com covering Georgia Tech Football

Also check out Pro Sports Lives (Atlanta GA 1190AM) at http://www.prosportslives.com/ every Saturday 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST....

Jay-Z: Sports Business of "Dead Presidents"

2013-06-08T18:14:00.002-07:00

Kevin Durant to sign with Music Mogul and Icon Jay-Z's Roc Nation Sports. Changing marketing companies for the second time in two years. This represents a big change in the sports industry as Roc Nation now represents players in the NFL, MLB, WNBA and now NBA. Jay-Z once a part owner of the New Jersey/ Brooklyn Nets recently dissolved his shares to open up on a more lucrative journey and expand in the world of sports and entertainment. While some have criticized Jay-Z's motives and sports marketing knowledge Roc Nation Sports has an impressive list of sports agents to represent clients.

One of the biggest business moves which seems to flow by silently into the whispers and criticisms of Hova's business abilities was the signing of NFLPA Contract Advisor Kimberly Ann Miale in May. Kimberly will represent New York Jets Rookie QB Geno Smith. Since Roc Nation Sports has now infiltrated the big sports markets with athletes such as Robinson Cano, Geno Smith, Skylar Diggins and Kevin Durant rumors of mad and jealous agents are swarming. Some have accused Jay-Z's representation as illegal stating that Roc Nation Sports has yet to be certified by the NFLPA. Overlooking the facts, Roc Nation Sports has partnered with Creative Arts Agency a well documented sports marketing agency.

Jay-Z's business relationship with CAA Co-Head Michael Levin has come under scrutiny from different agents and marketing firms. Who fear Jay-Z is using tactics which put him above the law when it comes to NFLPA rules and regulations. As CAA has allowed Roc Nation Sports to recruit athletes from CAA's agency. Robinson Cano is one of the athletes which CAA allowed Roc Nation Sports to recruit.

Roc Nation Sports has changed the game of sports marketing business. Usually the athlete is the cash cow but with Jay-Z now the agency is the cash monopoly with guaranteed endorsements and big money contracts waiting on the other end. Imagine Jay-Z representing Michael Jordan or Allen Iverson in the 90's the powers combined would make player union's scramble. Now look at reality Cano, Skylar, Smith and Durant four of the most marketable athletes in their respective leagues.

What to expect? Expect Roc Nation Sports to shake the hemisphere of sports marketing. Watch as the Music mogul becomes a sports business tycoon creating cash flow with the world's biggest athlete's. The big announcement will follow and the money gates will open when Jay-Z signs LeBron James and turns LBJ into the richest athlete on the planet. This is your official warning the sports business game is now changed "forever" and contrary to belief Hova understands the game of business. Jay- understands the "Sports Business of Dead Presidents".

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Clenaure Carter is now the Writer for http://www.football.com covering Georgia Tech Football

Also check out Pro Sports Lives (Atlanta GA 1190AM) at http://www.prosportslives.com/ every Saturday 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST....

Just another series for Miami Heat history! #Pacers #Heat

2013-05-21T12:55:00.001-07:00

NBA Eastern Conference Finals have the defending NBA Champion Miami Heat facing their most stifling opponent of the 2013 NBA playoffs. The Indiana Pacers who most analyst are casually looking over has amassed the best defense in the Eastern Conference. David West and Roy Hibbert dominate the boards and control the paint both on defense and offense for the Pacers.

Pacers posses the NBA's best defense with young talent at both the guard and forward positions. Paul George NBA's Most Improved Player faces the associations reigning MVP LeBron James in a playoff series key match up. During the regular season George averaged 18pts, 7rebs, and 4.3 ast with heavy face time against arguably the leagues best player. It's a challenge that can be overwhelming for the young 23yr old and first time NBA All Star. George's number one attribute will be on the defensive side of ball, "He's very athletic, with long arms and his anticipation is very good" according to James. George did a masterful job versus Carmelo Anthony in the previous playoff series limiting Anthony to 4pts in the 4th quarter. What's more impressive is the fact George held Anthony without a field goal in the 4th Qtr of games 3 and 4. As LeBron James is quick to mention "He also has a lot of help behind him they're the #1 defense for a reason".

Is Indiana's size and strength enough to provide a cold front and scour away the heat? Earlier this season I provided an article highlighting every reason why the Pacers were the only team in the Eastern Conference built to take advantage of the Heats weaknesses link provided below. Just to give a quick insight the Miami Heat are inefficient in two areas total team rebounding and offensive boards. Pacers excel in both areas ranked among the best in the association. By the numbers Heat average 46.7 rebs per game vs Pacers 54.8 rebs per contest. Heat garner 8.3 offensive boards per game in comparison to Pacers 12.8 per. contest.

Outside of rebounding and defensive numbers Pacers offense is polar opposite from the Dwayne Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh led Miami Heat offense. Pacers offense is insufficient at times with long delays between baskets leading to one of NBA's worst (47.7%) FG efficient offenses. In comparisons the Heats 2012-2013 NBA regular season FG efficiency rate was 55.1% . Big difference like comparing apples to oranges.

Last seasons playoff series between Pacers and Heat was testy Heat took an early 1-0 lead with Pacers former NBA executive calling the Pacers players soft. The young Pacers responded winning games 2 and 3 in the series. In the 2012 playoff series were unforgettable moments starting Lance Stephenson's choke signal toward James in game 3 and the before game locker room search conducted by Juwan Howard.
This time around in the Eastern Conference Finals we should expect a more mature Lance Stephenson. Who recently had a 25 pt, 10 reb performance to finish off the New York Knicks in game 6.

Prediction: Miami Heat in 6 just too many offensive weapons and dominating figures for the Pacers to handle. Heat had awake up call versus the Chicago Bulls in the semi-finals and I think Frank Vogel was correct "Heat are just the next team in the Pacers way". Yes, I agree with the statement but I frankly don't see eye to eye with Vogel's outcome. To me it's "Just another series for Miami Heat history"!

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Clenaure Carter is now the Writer for http://www.football.com covering Georgia Tech Football

Also check out Pro Sports Lives (Atlanta GA 1190AM) at http://www.prosportslives.com/ every Saturday 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST....

NBA: This Was Never About Seattle...

2013-05-10T17:00:00.000-07:00

Seattle's Chris Hansen fighting a battle that is essentially a no win situation. The battle over the Sacramento Kings is coming to an end the week of May 13th 2013 and the hill to climb is getting steep. The NBA Relocation Committee chaired by Seattle nemesis Clay Bennett owner of Oklahoma City Thunder unanimously turned down a recommendation (0-7) for the Kings to relocate to the Pacific Northwest. Hansen's group continues to fight and recently raised the purchase price by an additional $75 Million bringing the total to $625 Million.

Hansen's group has already negotiated a handshake deal with Sacramento Kings Owner(s) the Maloof's. Yet, the NBA seems poised to keep professional basketball in Sacramento. What needs to be explained to fans in Seattle is the fact NBA owners are not evaluating rather Hansen's group has the ability to financially purchase the Kings. Instead NBA owners are evaluating the City of Sacramento and deciding if the city is capable of producing a positive and financially valuable environment for an NBA franchise. Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson (former NBA player) has shown the ability to put together a purchasing group and arena deal in order to keep the Kings in Sacramento. It is not in the NBA's best interest to rip a team from a city if the local government is capable of meeting NBA standards and financially providing support to keep a team in an already established NBA city.

Micky Arison owner of the Miami Heat is also one of the seven owners who voted against the Kings relocating to Seattle and he had a little something to say regarding the situation.Excerpts are extracted via SB Nation from Sports Radio KJR 950 AM & 102.9 FM Seattle WA and a Direct Message Arison had with a Seattle supporter @Dah_knee on Twitter.
You don't get it. We are voting to leave Sac or not. I love Seattle and will support a team there but honestly you are making it harder to support you. ... The question before the committee is "Has Sac done all it should to keep the team?" The answer is yes. It's not a vote about Seattle. ... If Seattle -- especially local politicians -- had done what Sac's done a move to OKC would never have been approved. ... [Seattle guy says the city did step up with Ballmer's KeyArena renovation plan] ... Sorry, but you're wrong. Ballmer never stepped up in 2008 and the issue was the turning down of the arena project to Schultz and Bennett over many years. ... Another market move is more likely but expansion will be considered after the next TV negotiations. ... [The Ballmer 2008 plan] was unacceptable to the league and they knew it.

As you can see the NBA is making the case that the sell of the Kings to the Hansen group has nothing to do with Hansen but the City of Sacramento. Which raises the question of how do you deny a city a team after slapping them in the face with the Sonics leaving town in 2008. Then beat them down when a financially fit and business savvy individual elects to purchase a franchise with willing owner's, the Maloofs ready to sale? If the NBA commits another foul in the Seattle NBA saga without offering a favorable solution its possible the door slams in Seattle forever. Best answer to this catastrophe is a deal where the Hansen group receives the rights to an expansion team. With an expansion franchise Seattle carry the legacy of the SuperSonics without destroying the history of Chris Webber, Kenny Smith, Mitch Richmond, and Reggie Theus. Hopefully this move would allow the OKC Thunder to claim its rightful history in Oklahoma which started in 2008. Leaving the Seattle SuperSonics with the rights to truly retire Gary Payton, Shawn Kemp and Nate Mc Millan's jerseys the way it should be done. Maybe, just maybe Chris Hansen already knows this and is leveraging the NBA by showing proof that Seattle is financially ready for an NBA expansion team.

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NBA Playoffs: Are They Ready?

2013-04-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

NBA playoffs, where good players turn into all stars and hopefully become legends. The 2013 NBA playoffs is no exception. This post-season the eyes of NBA fans and pens of analysis experts will be busy looking for the next all star or legend to rise to the occasion. In the postseason games become tighter, you see the same anoying opponent for a week, match-ups become more intense and only the best survive. The NBA regular season is simply regular, the postseason well that's where the real action begins. Opponents really zone in on a players weaknesses and strengths every move is examined and calculated in film rooms. Players go to sleep and wake-up thinking of only their opponent, tempers flair and rivals begin. Athletes must be ready to accept the challenge, the only question is are they ready?

Blake Griffin: Los Angeles Clippers ultra athletic power forward popularly known for his great highlight dunks has to be more than just a highlight show. During the 2012 NBA playoffs Griffin averaged 19.1pts, 6.9rebs and 0.9blks against the Memphis Grizzlies. Griffin has to do better 0.9blks by a ferocious athletic freak of nature is not a a glowing endorsement for "Defensive Player of Year". Controlling the paint is an area where he must excel, requesting a near double-double with 1.5 - 2.0 blocks per game is not much for Clippers fans to request from their all star athlete.
NOTE: Statistically Griffin is currently having his worst NBA season 18pts, and 8.3 rebs below career avaerages of 20.4pts and 10.4 rebs.

Josh Smith: Atlanta Hawks highlight to the "Highlight Factory" one of the best all around athletes in the NBA. Criticized for his lack of decision making and ill-timed shooting must make a significant contribution in the postseason. Smith is a 9yr NBA veteran playing in his sixth straight post season appearance with Atlanta. In 5 of 6 NBA playoff post seasons Smith's numbers have dipped from regular season stats. While most NBA star athletes raise their level of play in the playoffs Smith has a track record performing the opposite. This postseason Smith must takeover in order for the Hawks to advance past the Indiana Pacers. Stuffing the regular season with stats is awesome to watch but stuffing stats in the NBA playoffs will make you an "All Star".
NOTE: Smith believes his talents are All Star written but NBA playoff numbers tell the real story.

James Harden: Former Sixth Man of Year, Olympic Gold Medalist, NBA Finals appearance, and NBA All Star. Most of Harden's awards were achieved as a member of Oklahoma City Thunder playing next to friends Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant. Now he Harden is OKC Thunder "Enemy of the State". Before the regular season started Harden wanted to be more than just a member of the "3 Stooges" he wanted his own stage. Well Harden welcome to the big stage first opponent OKC Thunder. Defeating Westbrook and Durant's Thunder in Western Conference playoffs could make Harden an instant NBA legend or at least make him unforgettable in NBA history.
NOTE: Harden career postseason career averages 13.8pts, 1.3stls, 3.3ast, and 4.8rebs (Thunder)

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Viewer Called Tiger Woods Master's Violation, What's the Number?

2013-04-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

In one of the most bizarre situations in Master's history at Augusta. Tiger Woods was penalized for an unofficial now official call made by a television viewer. Woods was assessed a two stroke penalty for a drop. According to Fox News "Woods' shot on the par-5 15th hole of the second round hit the flag stick and bounced back into the water. He took his penalty drop two yards behind where he hit the original shot, which was a rules violation.Augusta National reviewed the incident Saturday morning before the third round began and added the two-stroke penalty for an improper drop. Woods had a 73 instead of a 71 and went into the weekend five shots out of the lead"

While the rules seem simple, there is some issue with how the penalty came down. First a television viewer sitting down eating peanuts and drinking beer at their favorite local pub called into the Masters to report the violation. Second after the initial review the committee exclaimed that no violation had occurred. Third violation was not accepted until Woods unaware of rule 26 indicted himself "I went back to where I played it from, but went two yards further back and I tried to take two yards off the shot of what I felt I hit," Woods said Friday after he signed for a 71, leaving him three shots out of the lead. "And that should land me short of the flag and not have it either hit the flag or skip over the back. I felt that was going to be the right decision to take off four (yards) right there. And I did. It worked out perfectly."

Where in the Masters rule book is it acceptable for non-participating spectators (sitting at a bar or couch ) to call in violations. Does this mean fans can now sit a home during a NBA basketball and call in offensive fouls every time LeBron James comes flying to basket. How about when Michael Jordan pushed off on Byron Russell to hit the game winning shot in the 1998 NBA Finals? Excuse me NFL I know Marshawn Lynch broke 10 tackles but when he lowered his shoulders to take the list hit the crown of the helmet was sticking out? If so where's the phone number?

Deandre Jordan stare down and step over after annihilating Brandon Knight was definitely taunting. Sounds silly, but truth is no fan or television viewer without an official capacity should have the power to alert officials in this matter. If so what's the number?

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Basketball Hall of Fame 2013 "The Glove" Gary Payton

2013-04-05T16:34:00.000-07:00

Gary Payton known as "The Glove" from his Hall of Fame worthy days with the Seattle SuperSonics has been elected to the 2013 Basketball Hall of Fame. Payton a native of California was born in 1968.He played high school ball for Skyline High School in Oakland, California. Upon graduation Payton traveled North to Corvallis Oregon where becoming one of the most prolific and decorated athletes in Oregon State University history. In 1990 Payton graced the cover of Sports Illustrated as the nations best collegiate basketball player. Payton's list of collegiate awards includes 1990 All-American, 3x All-Pac10 selection, Pac-10 1987 freshman of the year, 3x MVP Far West Classic Tournament, 9x Pac-10 player of the week, Pac-10 All-Decade Team. At one time Payton held the OSU school record in points, field goals, three point field goals, assists and steals. Leading the OSU Beavers to three NCAA Tournament appearances due to his performance Payton's name was etched in OSU Sports Hall of Fame in 1996.

Gary Payton was selected with the second overall pick by the Seattle SuperSonics in 1990. Initially Payton started on the Sonics bench playing behind Nate Mc Millan for most of his rookie campaign. The following season a small starting point guard controversy started as the Sonics had two guards capable of the starting position. Sonics coach K.C. Jones made a decision before the 1991 season began to start the younger Payton. During the first two seasons of his career Payton struggled with shooting the basketball as he averaged 8.2 points per game, (7.2pts rookie season). Through hardwork and determination Payton started to prove himself to Seattle Sonics front office, coaches and fans.

When Sonics drafted another young fella by the name of Shawn Kemp, Paytons level of played elevated to new heights. Payton and Kemp would soon form one of the best duo's in NBA history, forever known as the "Sonic Boom". Payton captivated the NBA and Seattle fan base like a Pacific Coast storm collecting nine consecutive All-NBA Teams selections spanning from 1994-2002, including 9x NBA All Star, NBA Defensive Player of Year Award in 1996 and two time Gold Medal Olympian (1996 and 2000).

In 1996 Payton led the Seattle SuperSonics to the NBA Finals against Michael Jordan's infamous Chicago Bulls. Providing a memory that will forever be known in Sonics history. Jumping ahead 3-0 Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman made videos telling Bulls fans don't tear up the city until the Bulls players arrived home. Those comments rubbed Payton the wrong way and a injured Payton urged Sonics coach George Karl to let him guard Michael Jordan for the rest of the NBA Finals after the defensive switch Sonics won games 4 and 5 in Seattle sending the series to Chicago for game six. Payton's Sonics fell short in a high pressured atmosphere for game six but Payton earned Jordan's respect and carried the city of Seattle on his shoulders. Many wondered what the outcome could have been if coach Karl had started the 95-96 NBA Finals series with the defensive player of the year Gary Payton on Michael Jordan.

The Hall of Fame career of Gary Payton would continue away from Seattle in 2003 when a five player trade between the Sonics and Bucks would seen Ray Allen to Seattle in exchange for Gary Payton. Payton's NBA career with Milawaukee Bucks lasted 28 games before forming a Hall of Fame four-some w/ Karl Malone, Kobe Bryant, and Shaquile O'Neal add Phil Jackson and you have possibly the most historic line-ups in NBA history coached by the greatest coach.The journey continued that season with Payton's second trip to the NBA Finals against the Detroit Pistons. "In all honesty the only team in NBA history capable of defeating the Lakers 2004 NBA Finals team was the Pistons defense of 2004".

Before the 2004-2005 season Gary Payton would be reluctantly part of a trade deal sending the West Coast native to the Boston Celtics. Payton, Paul Pierce and Antoine Walker captured the 04-05' Atlantic Division title before a first round versus the Indiana Pacers. During the 2005 off-season Payton now a Unrestricted Free Agent signed a one year $1.1 million deal to join former Celtics teammate Antoine Walker and NBA Lakers buddy Shaquille O'Neal with the Miami Heat. In 2006 Payton played a crucial role down the stretch for the Miami Heat. None bigger than game three of the 2006 NBA Finals with Miami down (0-2) staring at a possible three game deficit when Payton hit the game winner and series changing jump shot against the Dallas Mavericks. For Payton "three times was the charm" as the prolific point guard captured the long awaited NBA Finals trophy.

Since his retirement Payton has been a key figure in the search for returning NBA basketball back to the city of Seattle attending several functions and rallies as a key note speaker. His contributions to the NBA will forever be remembered and now honored as a member of Basketball Hall of Fame. Ceremony takes place during half-time of the 2013 NCAA National Championship.

Bonus Video: Gary Payton vs. Michael Jordan 1996 NBA Finals Game (5)

Personal Note: Living in Seattle Gary Payton was my favorite Basketball player growing up so it was a pleasure writing the article and reviewing hundreds of highlights of the man we call "The Glove". Most articles I write are done without bias but this one is special. Hope you enjoyed the highlights and timeless article. Gary Payton thank you for the memories including the picture with me and my family below...

Picture Cousin Dean Garrett, Grandmama (RIP), Cousin Brandon Bishop (back), Brother Burre Collins and me (Light Skinned dude). One of the Greatest moments of my childhood.... Thanks!!

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FGCU Eagles Moving Up the Food Chain

2013-03-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

During the 2013 NCAA Tournament one of the greatest stories in Collegiate history has unfolded before our eyes. Florida Gulf Coast University has taken the NCAA Tournament by storm soaring their way into the colleges elite Sweet Sixteen. In only their second year of tournament eligibility FGCU Eagles have embarked on a college changing experience. While this appears to be a David versus Goliath film script, the Eagles are playing like a team with more than just a stone in a sling shot..

Head Coach Andy Enfield's young players Sherwood Brown, Bernard Thompson, Chase Fieler, Eric Mc Knight and Brett Comer appear to be in sync playing in a zone. Team chemistry and trust is peaking apparent by the helter skelter type passes Comer tosses to driving teammates on fast breaks almost out of thin air. Allowing athletes to play a lose brand of exciting basketball that fits their personality coach Enfield's Eagles have become the Cinderellas of these 2013 NCAA Tournaments.

Florida Gulf Coast’s Sherwood Brown (center) celebrates with teammates after their 81–71 win over San Diego State in the NCAA college basketball tournament Sunday in Philadelphia. (Michael Perez/AP)

Defeating #2 Georgetown in the first round of 64 was monumental but far from the beginning of this great story . On November 13th 2012, FGCU faced heavily favored Miami Hurricanes in Fort Myers Florida as 7.5 point underdogs. Brown and Mc Knight scored 14 points each and Thompson contributed 13 points as FGCU defeated Miami 63-51 in front of a sold out crowd of 4,552 at Alico Arena. How good was Eagles versus the Hurricanes? FGCU outscored Miami 40-14 in points in the paint, while flashing off 6 fast break dunks which have become their trademark in the tournament.

This season including the NCAA Tournament FGCU has faced VCU, Miami, Duke, Georgetown and San Diego State going a combined 3-2 after losing the season opener to VCU. Remember it's not how you start but how you finish and the Eagles have premiere collegiate talent at every position on the court. The state of Florida has three teams alive in the field of sixteen and next on FGCU's "Road to the Final Four" is an in state match-up against the Florida Gators. A win on Friday against the Gators will propel the Eagles up the Florida food chain and into NCAA's Elite 8.

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Achieving the Dream Tia Norfleet "First African American Female" Licensed by NASCAR

2013-03-14T21:53:00.001-07:00

Shauntia Norfleet daughter of former NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet is a second generation NASCAR car driver. Tia is also the "First African American Female" driver licensed by NASCAR as a professional late model series driver. It is well documented that NASCAR is a sport that lacks growth in diversity, predominately dominated by white males. So it’s rare when you look over in lane 4 or 5 and see professional race car athletes like Tia sitting in her #34 Chevy, revving up her engine.

Tia started racing at the tender age of 14 performing in Kart Racing events and then continuing her young career in drag racing winning 37 of her 52 competing events. In 2000 Tia switched from drag racing to stock car competitions participating in Badolero racing events. Bandolero racing events feature young athletes ages 8- 16 competing on 1/4 mile, 3/8 mile and 4/10 mile courses and dirt tracks.

Then in 2010 under the guidance of her father Bobby, Tia became the first female African American driver to receive a NASCAR late model racing license. Her first late model competitions took place in local events in Augusta GA. While this should be a cherished moment for a young female athlete who now resides in Atlanta GA the home of the civil rights movement, many news reports have been placed to discredit her hard working achievements.

In a New York Times article published March 6th 2013 and conducted by Viv Bernstein points out the following in her article. "In speaking engagements with students and in news media interviews, Norfleet has for several years portrayed herself as an accomplished driver in the sport. She has sought sponsorships and has a PayPal account on her Web site, which includes articles and videos about her achievements." What NYT reporter Bernstein does not point out is the fact that, Bernstein has harassed and called several principals at these schools for having Tia participating in speaking engagements. What kind of reporter goes out of their way to find out what schools an athlete will be conducting awareness and empowerment speeches to encourage students and then harasses the principals and school officials? What reporter calls news organizations and belittles them for attempting to conduct articles, follow-up stories, and interviews with Norfleet?

Next the Bernstein writes "Her Web site, Tianorfleet34.com, indicates that she intends to compete in a full schedule this season in Nascar’s Nationwide Series, one rung below the top-tier Sprint Cup series. But Norfleet is not licensed to compete at that level." I believe looking up the definition of the word intends/intent is to Have (a course of action) as one's purpose or objective; plan: as in "we intend to leave". So yes Norfleet intends to race or participate in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Notice this is a NASCAR event used as a proving ground for NASCAR licensed drivers to move up into the ranks of the big league racing. This is a great event for a late model series racer such as Norfleet to compete in and move up the ranks of NASCAR. Last sentence “But Norfleet is not licensed to compete at that level" Bernstein's comment does not reflect or prove in any way that Norfleet does not have a license. It simply states that she is not licensed to compete at that level. So Norfleet does have a license huh, just not at that level, but can she obtain a license at that level, and Norfleet has the intentions to obtain a license at that level.

Remember we all start somewhere in life, most as entry level workers or assistants in our everyday job. Because one is an assistant or entry level manager it does not mean you’re not a manager. It simply means that you are a manager in training or a manager looking to achieve at the next level. There may be some other qualifications you need in order to achieve that ultimate goal.

Norfleet is simply taking the steps, to achieve her ultimate goal, she has held qualifications for a NASCAR license since 2010 and she is the first African American Female to obtain a NASCAR license at any level in the sport of NASCAR racing. Viv Bernstein is what we call a hater, a reporter who has tried to shutter mud at an historic figure in the African American community. One who according to those close to Norfleet tried to conduct an interview over two years ago and due to Bernstein's interviewing comments and harsh tone failed to complete that very same interview. Now Bernstein works for NYT and has used her position to spew discouraging remarks and statements about Norfleet.

Instead of following the ways of hatred and continuing with her remarks I ask all reporters and news outlets to look further into this matter before writing, printing or taking to the airwaves to continue with Bernstein's attacks. Remember we all start off somewhere at some level in life. Congratulations to Ms. Tia Norfleet you are a symbol that through hard work and perseverance nothing should ever stop us from achieving our ultimate goal.

To learn more about Tia Norfleet check out the following helpful websites and articles:
Tia Norfleet official website: http://www.tianorfleet34.com/
OurTown News Stone Mountain GA http://www.ourtown.com/stonemountainga/article/2011/9/16/nascars-up-and-coming.html
Official Tia Norfleet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tianorfleet

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Atlanta Falcons: Filling the Void of T&A

2013-03-09T15:32:00.001-08:00

Atlanta Falcons released Michael Turner and John Abraham. Turner and Abraham once represented the heart & soul of the Atlanta Falcons. Contributing to 3 straight playoff appearances from 2009-2013, two players who changed the misfortunes of the Falcons. The two veterans played pivotal roles in leading the Falcons to the 2013 NFC Championship against the San Francisco 49ers. With these two leaders departing who will the Falcons lean onto to replace two franchise cornerstones?

The argument for releasing Turner is the fact that he has reached passed the "death age" for NFL running backs. Turner turned 31 back in February. There are several options available on the open NFL market and both under the infamous age of 30. Reggie Bush age 28 seems to be a good, yet expensive Free Agent who has worked hard and achieved the role of a every down back. Drafted by the New Orleans Saints, the Falcons have the most game tape and film study covering Bush, than any other franchise searching for answers at the running back position. Several rumor have emerged that Bush could end up pairing with Calvin Johnson and Matthew Stafford in Detroit. Representing one of the best triple threat combo’s in the NFL.

Steven Jackson (age 29) according to media reports has the greatest chance of replacing Turner in Atlanta. Jackson a powerful running back recorded 1042 yards on 251 carries averaging 4.1 per carry slightly under career average of 4.2, showcasing that Jackson can still be a solid performer for NFL suitors. Recently Jackson sat with Sirius XM NFL Radio "For where I'm at, going into Year 10, I'm not ready to step back and just become a primary backup or a reduced role guy to be part of a running back by committee,". Adding Jackson to the roster would give Falcons an Oregon State Beavers backfield of Rodgers and Jackson. Affording Jackson the opportunity for a featured role with a Super Bowl contender.

John Abraham was released and immediately Falcons soon to be NFC rivals started calling Abrahams agent. The Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers emerged as Abraham's first visits during free agency. Both franchises are set to contend for the 2014 Super Bowl next season. How will the Falcons feel the void of a Hall of Fame worthy Defensive End who recorded 10 sacks last season? Abraham’s ten sacks represented 1/3rd of the Falcons overall total as a team last season.

News has emerged that the Falcons could look take a look at Michael Bennett (Buccaneers) and Cliff Avril (Lions). Bennett recorded a career best nine sacks during 2012-2013 season. At age 27, 6ft 4in and 254 pounds Bennett is a defensive weapon entering into the beginning of his prime. Among 4-3 defensive ends Bennett is probably the best agent available meaning the price tag could be pricey for his services.

Avril tabbed as the best NFL defensive end on a open market that features Osi Umenyiora, and Richard Seymour is entering his sixth NFL season. Recorded 20 1/2 sacks over the past two seasons could anchor the Falcons defense for several upcoming seasons. While the two mentioned young defensive ends can produce at a Pro Bowl type level Thomas Dimitroff doesn't seem inclined on handing out huge contracts to outside free agents next season. ESPN's Pat Yasinskas reports "General Manager Thomas Dimitroff has made it pretty clear he wants to take care of his own guys first. That means cornerback Brent Grimes, safety William Moore and left tackle Sam Baker are tops on the list. Oh, and the Falcons also want to sign quarterback Matt Ryan to a long-term extension sometime this offseason. And tight end Tony Gonzalez might decide to return for one more season".

Personal Opinion: Dimitroff's statement leaves us with the impression that Falcons are looking to the draft or toward lower end free agency to replace Abraham and Turner. Leaving Chris Canty (Giants), Ricky Jean Francois (49ers), and Jason Jones (Seahawks) as the free agents Falcons might covet the most. Rumors have Falcons eyeing Dwight Freeney and Osi Umenyiora, I don't buy the Freeney rumors of high interest. Yes some interest is there but its cliche' because every team has interest in a free agent player. Umenyiora I am buying as solid, age 31 a solid veteran who can provide a few seasons of strong play at a valuable position. Providing leadership and championship experience with a high level of play can send this Falcons team to a new level. Truth is Falcons have put themselves in a unsettling position by releasing Abraham and Turner. Atlanta would have to make a draft day trade to move up in the draft to acquire a young talent capable of "Filling the Void of T&A".

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Dennis Rodman: "Passport for Dummies"...

2013-03-07T17:13:00.002-08:00

What more can I say about Dennis Rodman that the "Worm"' hasn't already proven himself. Putting himself in a national / worldwide spotlight with his self-proclaimed new BFF North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un. Dennis Rodman participated in a Harlem Globetrotter tour to the rouge nation last week. In a visit NBA Commissioner David Stern described to CBS news as "Ridiculous, I think that if you're going to meet someone with the record on human rights, and nuclear testing in a reckless way, counterfeiting U.S. dollars, and exporting a horrible brand of whatever it is that he's exporting, starving his people, and locking them up, it should be done only in conjunction with the State Department with an agenda. If not, you shouldn't go."

Obviously we live in a unsettled world one where dictators like Kim Jung Un rules over a nation of people with whip and fist. Starving the people of North Korea to death and sending children into prison work camps. When Americans travel overseas we do so knowing with caution, especially since the events of 9/11 where shortly after President Bush named North Korea as part o the axis of evil. It's apparent Rodman resides in another altered universe where treating children like rabid animals and starving the elderly of medical care is accepted.

In a recent interview with George Stephanopoulos on ABC this week. He spoke as if he was an serving as perhaps an ambassador of the United States to North Korea. Describing Kim Jong Un as a humble friend to him that happens to like control and power. Well thanks Rodman we appreciate, you telling us that the dictator who kills and torchers his own citizens and continues to make threats to the United States is obsessed with the feeling of power and control. Rodman later described Jong Un an awesome person and personal friend of his. Exclaiming that he knows about Jong Un's threats and understands the human rights records of the rouge leader. His comments were borderline treason in some aspects, as he was wined and dined by North Korea's dictator.

No Dennis, Kim Jack-In-The Crack is not your friend he is an evil dictator. One of whom continues to work on nuclear weapons in order to bomb the United States. Rodman claimed that his new BFF wanted no war with the United States and simply wanted a phone from President Obama to talk about basketball. Well, making nuclear death threats sounds nothing like a simple phone call to talk about a piece of round leather that bounces on hardwood floor. I fail to know of one American that purchases a passport so they can visit Osama Bin Laden, Hitler, Saddam Hussein or Kim Jong Un. Then proclaim the dictators as nice guys who want a glass of cold milk and a cookie.

A few days after Rodman's visit to the inhumane dictator who runs prison camps out of children, while depriving an entire country of nourishment. Kim Jong Un again threatens the United States again. As I am writing this article I am almost sure the secret service has placed Dennis "The Menace" on some type of international watch list.

At end of Rodman's interview he tells Stephanopoulos "don't you hate me". No Rodman we don't hate and I doubt Stephanopoulos hates you as well but stardom is not an excuse for ignorance. So the next time Rodman worms his way into North Korea dining on 15 course meal of sushi, turkey, beef filet, kimchi, and whole roasted pig. Hopefully he takes some time to think of the cruel starvation and beat up hands of the citizens who prepared the food. Rodman probably ate more at one seating than most citizens in the impoverished land will eat all year. For Americans looking to travel overseas let this serve as your exclusive "Passport for Dummies" article. In the end we know its just Dennis being Dennis, hopefully he can rebound from this.....

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Baltimore Ravens: "Big Money Joe" Power of Self-Worth

2013-03-03T08:59:00.000-08:00

Joe Flacco you know the guy who kept telling the entire league that he was an elite Quarterback. You know the guy who was playing the role of the "4th Stooge" on the Baltimore Ravens, while taking a back seat to Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs. Joe Flacco the NFL Quarterback of a team known for their prolific defense and lack of offensive ability. I could go on and on but hey let's face it he’s no Trent Dilfer, this Baltimore Ravens team was more than just a squad full of defensive players past their prime searching for that last moment of glory.

Joe Flacco the self-proclaimed great QB is no longer just running his mouth his running to the bank and he deserves it. Flacco talked and played his way into a 6 yr/ $120.6 million deal. Why? Because he backed it up, he believed in the power of self-worth. When Ravens front office approached Flacco with an extension offer Flacco refused. Refused to sell himself short in an NFL where quarterbacks the likes of Philip Rivers and Sam Bradford are collecting over $15 million/ per season. During the 2012-2013 season "Big Money Joe" played for almost half of that price. Seriously Flacco earned $8.8 million last season playing off of his original rookie contract.

Coming into the last season of his rookie contract Flacco had yet to throw for 4,000 yards or pass for 25 touchdowns in a regular season and 86.0 passer rating was pedestrian to NFL standards. Well guess what? Flacco still has yet to accomplish those feats as he passed for 3,817 yards, 22 TD's and held a 87.7 passer rating. No his stats don't jump out at you, Flacco's not out their throwing for 5,000 yards and 45 TD's per season but when you are an efficient quarterback you don't need ridiculous stats to prove yourself worth. No need to throw the pigskin 727 times for 4,967 yards (Matthew Stafford).

Since Flacco's rookie season in 2008 he has stayed in his own lane becoming the best at what he does, while developing his confidence and becoming the type of NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez was suppose to be. To remix a Jay-Z verse "Guess You Can Call Big Money Joe the CEO of the DMV Oh"....

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Dethroning the Champs: Miami Heat "Rules"

2013-02-27T08:21:00.000-08:00

The NBA season has been great so far watching players, coaches and ultimately NBA franchises get ready for what we call the stretch run of the NBA season. As teams fight for a spot in the NBA playoffs there is one common denominator, one purpose and that is winning the NBA Championship. The trade deadline has passed and the blockbuster trades never materialized. Therefore the DNA of your favorite team is already set; remember the phrase "They are who we Thought they were". Well its true barring major injuries or dramatic increase in player level the type of dramatic increase that turns Joe Johnson into Reggie Miller NBA teams are set.

Like the great Ric Flair once said "In order to be the man you have to be the man" and the 2011-2012 NBA Champion Miami Heat are currently storming the NBA on a 12 game winning streak. Dwayne Wade "W.O.W" or Way Of Wade is taking over 4th quarters and the Miami Heat look primed to defend their NBA Championship. So it’s not a matter of who will make the playoffs in the Eastern Conference, it’s who has the better shot of defeating the Miami Heat in the postseason. In the end it comes down to matching strengths versus weaknesses.

Deep analysis of the Miami Heat shows glaring holes in several categories 46.6 is the number of rebounds the Heat average per game ranking 30th in the NBA. Miami's Offensive rebounding percentage 22.5% allows opposing NBA teams to grab at least 77.5% of Miami's missed shots on the boards. Heat average a total of 8.5 offensive rebounds tied 28th with the Boston Celtics in the NBA worst in the Eastern Conference. Miami is able to combat these stats with an Effective 54.9% FG best in the NBA and low turnover rate of 12.9%. Miami's perfect storm would be a team that can apply pressure on defense forcing turnovers while controlling the glass. Perimeter and Paint defensive oriented teams with an effective offensive system. Reasons why the Boston Celtics with Rajon Rondo normally give the Miami Heat great intense battles.

Contrary to belief the Miami Heat only excel greatly in three out of eighteen major/sub stat categories Points per Game 103.9, Turnover % 12.9 and Steals 8.7. Heats moderately perform in two major stat categories Point Differential +7.1 and Effective FG% 54.9. Miami is great at making up their flaws in the post offensively with great perimeter play as well last season the Heat shot 35.9% from three point range this number drastically increased in the NBA playoffs against the OKC Thunder when Mike Miller and Shane Battier got "White Heat Hot" from downtown. During the 2012-2013 NBA season the additions of Rashard Lewis and Ray Allen has increased the Heat's three point percentage to a scorching 39.1%

While the Miami Heat has several flaws mostly in the post/ paint it would take a multi-faceted team in order to dethrone the NBA Champions. List of Eastern Conference playoff teams with the ability to create havoc in the playoffs and strip the Heat of another NBA Finals appearance is slim. Here's a list of playoff teams with the ability to control the post defensively and offensively Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets and New York Knicks fit the bill here. Defensively the Heat could struggle against a defensive and aggressive Indiana team Pacers lead the NBA in PPG Allowed 89.6 other notable Eastern Conference playoff teams include Chicago Bulls 91.6, Brooklyn Nets 94.8, Boston Celtics 96.1 and Atlanta Hawks 96.2. Only three playoff bound teams hold opponents to a worst FG% Indiana Pacers 41.3%, Chicago Bulls 43.4% and Boston Celtics 44.1%. Once we look at the overall Adjusted FG% which shows the effectiveness of the opponents offense versus the defense only the Pacers 44.5%, Bulls 46.7%, Bucks (8th seed) 48.2%, Celtics 48.2%, Hawks 49.2% are same or better than Miami Heat. Once again the Heat combats these issues with effective offense and unmatched intangibles in LeBron James and Dwayne Wade.

Eastern Conference playoff teams prove that defense is the call Miami Heat’s offense sets them apart and beyond the rest of the pack. Heat average 103.9 ppg , 49.7 fg% and effective 54.9% fg rate. New York Knicks average 100.1 ppg but the offensive system is only generating a 44.3 fg% and Miami's defense is more effective due to lack of perimeter pressure. Atlanta Hawks DNA proves they have a good offensive system with Jeff Teague at the point and Josh Smith and Al Horford controlling the post generating a 46.3 fg% and Effective/ Adjusted 51.9 fg%. Issue for Hawks terrible home court more Heat fans in Philips Arena than Hawks fans you can actually hear the "Let's Go Heat Chants" drain out the announcer saying "Defense" when Heat have the ball, secondly Josh Smith and Al Horford always look overwhelmed by James and Wade being on the same basketball court. Injuries to Rajon Rondo and Derrick Rose eliminates the Celtics and Bulls, I wonder what the Bulls offense would look like versus the Heat with a healthy Rose in uniform. Brooklyn Nets offense despite Deron Williams at point guard are terrible 95.2 ppg, 44.1 fg% and 49.1 effective fg%. Brook Lopez and Reggie Evans undoubtedly have the ability to control the post offensive/ defensive but where is Williams and Johnson?

Indiana Pacers represent the Miami Heat’s greatest defensive threat but lag far behind in all offensive categories 94.0 ppg, 43.4 fg% and 47.6 Adjusted/ Effective fg%. Middle to end of the pack NBA free throw and three point team. Since the All-Star break the Indiana has outpaced their offensive season averages posting 125pts v. Knicks, 114pts v. Pistons, 90pts v. Pistons and 108pts v. Warriors opening up to a 4-0 start after the break. Former All-Star Danny Granger is back from injury and the Pacers seemed posed with all the potential to threaten the Miami Heat if the offensive explosion continues. Most of all the Pacers don't seem fazed by the intangibles LeBron James and Dwayne Wade.

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Los Angeles Lakers Guarantee 2013 NBA Playoffs

2013-02-23T08:41:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles Lakers one of the most storied franchises in American sports history are currently on the outside looking in when it comes to the NBA playoff picture. Despite one of the best rosters in the NBA the Lakers are fighting to sniff the NBA playoffs. As NBA fans and media question the Lakers ability to turn things around over the later portion of the season Dwight Howard, Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash remain confident of a NBA playoff appearance. When discussing the issue in a recent Sports Illustrated interview Kobe Bryant said "It's not a question of if we make the playoffs. We will,” Bold statement by the NBA's worldwide spokesperson as #24 has never been a individual short on confidence or will. Seeing the glass more than half-full is the way Bryant has always viewed life in the NBA. After Bryant's playoff guarantee fellow teammates Nash and Howard were asked about the statement and responded "Yeah, I guarantee it, too," Nash said and Howard responded with "I'm not going to sit up here and say, 'No, we're not going to make it,' " Howard said. "We got to have faith, and if we don't, we're not going to make it, but I believe that we're going to turn this around and we're going to be great."

The Lakers currently sit 3 1/2 games behind the James Harden led Houston Rockets and sit 4 1/2 games outside of 7th place Utah Jazz. Los Angeles Lakers 27-29 are 7-3 over their last 10 games and starting to click on the court. Howard seems to have his explosive bounce and first step back after a nagging shoulder and back injuries. While a lot of media focus surrounding the NBA's best big man remains on what he will do during the upcoming off season. General Manager Mitch Kupchak is confident that Howard is the center piece and future of the Los Angeles Lakers. With the NBA trade deadline passed and gone Howard seems more inclined to stay in Los Angeles. The relationship between Howard and Kupchak is based on trust "He just told me to trust him, so I’m going to trust him and go out there every night, play as hard as I can" Howard said.

Now with chemistry starting to mesh and injuries to Nash and Howard on the mends the focus for the Lakers is making the playoffs. Trust is no longer a issue as the Lakers stars are starting to align, the only issue is timing. Do the Lakers have enough time to make a true run at the NBA playoffs, with 26 games remaining in the 2012-2013 season? The passing of Owner Dr. Jerry Buss gives the Lakers a sense of urgency to live up to the legacy and tradition started by the late owner who quoted the reason he bought the Lakers was to surpass the Boston Celtics. The day after his passing the Lakers dismantled the Celtics in his honor and a NBA Championship in 2013 places the franchise at 17 Championships tying the Celtics. Dr. Buss will be truly missed.....

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The Broken Insignia

2013-02-13T17:07:00.000-08:00

Clenaure Carter Iraq

Before I point to the issues of the Dorner and LAPD tragedies. Let me share a personal story one that I rarely share with others outside of my immediate family. I was once a victim of police brutality, never committed a crime a simple case of wrong place, wrong time. In 2004 I was in the United States Air Force and working a late shift at America’s favorite wing spot Buffalo Wild Wings located on Craig Rd in North Las Vegas Nevada. It was midnight the desert air giving way to a beautiful cloudless sky eight miles north of the Las Vegas strip. I arrived home and a close friend of mine asked if he could borrow my keys to take a simple drive to a local corner store. As I looked into his eyes I decided to do the right thing and take him to a store located on Craig Rd. As we arrived to the store we noticed a few friends and we chopped it up for a while. As we walked back to the vehicle, Police Officers arrived and immediately ordered the group of young African Americans to place our hands on the hood of the officers vehicle. What happened over the course of the next 5-10 minutes changed my life forever.

A Sergeant for the North Las Vegas Police Department directed me to come over to his side of the vehicle. As I walked over I showed the officer the tall Anglo-Saxon police officer my military issued United States Air Force ID Card and let him know I was unaware of any issues. The officer proceeded to choke me, as I started to gag and blackout from the choking I immediately fought the officer off of my neck. After fighting the officer off he reached for his weapon. Instantly I warned the officer of the grave mistake he was going to make shooting an innocent African American male (Yes I did). I caught myself realizing the situation and immediately turned around placing my hands on the side of the officer’s vehicle. While facing the vehicle, I noticed the officer from my peripheral preparing to squirt me with mace and moved out of the way at that moment backup officers jumped my back. Beating me to the ground with Batons and Tasers, I was arrested and spent several days in jail awaiting my bail hearing (it was Friday night). Bail was set that Monday morning and by Wednesday night around 11:50 I was released.

Following my release I called internal affairs the charges were bogus and made up. I needed answers like why was the officer there at the scene and treating us like criminals, thugs, pieces of dirt, human scrape meat, dogs without training. I was told officers were responding to an armed robbery. There was no robbery; there were no weapons, no stolen items, there was nothing. Several months later with accommodating letters from my military commander and the help of an excellent supervisor who never once questioned my innocence. Charges were dropped from the case and records sealed.

Christopher Dorner Navy Officer

That day left me with severe back issues that would later lead to a medical retirement from the United States Air Force. After 11yrs of military service tours in Iraq and a Humanitarian Award from Hurricane Katrina I was released into a strange world. With nowhere to turn I enrolled into the Criminal Justice Bachelor of Science program at Herzing University in Atlanta GA. No I didn't want to be a cop or county sheriff. I attended college so I could learn the mind of those officers that beat me that night some six years ago. Why? Because those officers left me disabled and the beatings left me with Degenerative Disc Disease.

So when Christopher Dorner a Navy military service officer says he was dismissed from the LAPD and the United States military because he reported officer brutality. It strikes memories of that dark Las Vegas night when innocent servicemen and veterans were simply having a conversation at a Shell gas station. This is my story but there are many like it, many that have been mistreated by the local police department. Mistreated by those whose duty is to protect and serve the community. No I don't condone the killings of innocent officers or the hostage taking of women in a cabin. I simply write this because the justice system needs to change. As we discuss gun violence in America lets also discuss the gun violence and brutality of those whose duty is to protect and serve our community. All I wanted to do that night was shake some Buffalo Wings and assist a friend at a local store. All Dorner wanted to do was set the record straight on police brutality in America. Yet Tuesday night February 12th 2013 those same officers who were to protect and serve set fire to a cabin where Dorner was located roasting him to a charred crisp on World Wide television as CNN, FOX, ABC, MSNBC and other media outlets watched and Americans citizens stood in silence.

Baton Welts on Lower Back

My hearts goes out to every family member affected by the tragedy and pray for all the victims of the mindless acts. At the same time let’s not be fooled by the prejudice displayed by those behind the badge in order to eradicate an issue you must first look at the root of the problem. The American Justice system must be fixed, as these incidents of police brutality continue to mount. It's time for a systematic and progressive change in America to fix the broken insignia.

P.S. You can take my back but you can't take my voice....

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NBA Mid-Season Report: Wild Roller Coaster Full of Injuries

2013-02-13T08:27:00.001-08:00

If you been following the NBA this season it has been a roller coaster of high-fives and disappointments . Golden State Warriors have been a great example of the NBA ride I am determined to point out. Riddled with injuries (Andrew Bogut) Mark Jackson's club has been to the top of the mountain and now heading into the All-Star break losing five games in a row the Warriors have essentially turned back into pumpkins at the stroke of midnight. Los Angeles Lakers front office has been horrible, terrible, implorable down right ugly. First the disrespectful firing of Mike Brown, the shady under cut move to dismiss the great Phil Jackson to hire the Big Apple destroyer in Mike D'Antoni. Then the injury bug started spreading around like the plague in the Lakers locker room down goes Nash, then D. Howard and now Gasol ouch! Karma from the Zen Master?

In the Eastern Conference Brooklyn Nets started off hot in their new surroundings appearing to emerge as early NBA Finals contenders and are now looking like a simple NBA playoff team. While making the playoffs is a great stride for the Nets franchise Joe Johnson, Deron Williams, Brook Lopez and Gerald Wallace weren't assembled to be a mere Eastern Conference playoff team they were meshed together to challenge the Miami Heat. Boston Celtics bit the injury bug hard Rondo partially torn right knee ACL out for the season, then the "Brazilian blur" Rondo's point guard replacement Leandro Barbosa goes out with a torn left ACL. This after the Celtics proved they had enough heart to survive without Rondo on the court winning seven contest in a row.

Take a sharp look at this seasons NBA injury laundry list and it reads like a who's who of the NBA or an All Star lineup. Derrick Rose*, Danny Granger, Anderson Varejao, Joakim Noah, Rajon Rondo, Pau Gasol, Mo Williams, Chris Kaman, Chris Paul, Chauncey Billups, Andrei Kirilenko, Andrew Bynum, Andrea Bargnani, Amare' Stoudemire, Kevin Love and more. All NBA players listed have missed significant time with injuries this season.

Hopefully the injury plague will come to an end after the All Star break. Unfortunately the roller coaster of rising and falling NBA teams will undoubtedly continue as playoff teams in both the Western and Eastern Conference are not etched in stone. I still believe Toronto and Philadelphia have an opportunity to slide into the 8th spot with Milwaukee Bucks currently on a down slide. While Kobe and the Lakers will not go quietly....

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Greg Oden "The BIG Anemic" Returning to NBA...

2013-02-09T06:32:00.000-08:00

Greg Oden the "BIG Anemic" is returning to the NBA. According to news sources around Cleveland Ohio the anemic one is close to a two year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Akron Beacon Journal reported Oden signing with the Cavaliers after the February 21st trade deadline. Oden has been working out and a third year team option is attached to the deal.

(Sam Forencich/Getty Images)

Cavaliers are currently $4 million under the cap and exploring several different trades to revamp a roster around young NBA superstar Kyrie Irving. Last week Oden's agent Mike Conley Sr. confirmed to the press that Oden had been working out/ meeting with the Cavaliers. While several other teams including the Miami Heat and Boston Celtics have been very interested in signing Oden. The Big Anemic is ready to stay home in his native Ohio and play for the Cavaliers.

Minus injury concerns Oden and Anderson Varejao could form a great one-two punch in the post with Marreese Speights coming off the bench. If Cavaliers find success between now and the off season of 2014 LeBron James could have a lot to think about before resigning with the Miami Heat.

Oden's last appearance in a NBA uniform was during the 2009 NBA season. Drafted in 2007 his career has been plagued with multiple severe and serious knee injuries. According to Sports Illustrated " Prior to that round of surgeries, Oden also had left knee surgery in 2009 after fracturing his patella, microfracture surgery on his left knee in 2010 to address a “defect” that occurred during non-contact rehabilitation work, and a microfracture surgery on his right knee in 2007." Since rehabbing Oden has moved back to Columbus and attended Ohio State finishing his degree.

FYI:

1.) Greg Oden is 25 years old

2.) Agent Mike Conley Sr. is father of Memphis Grizzlies PG Mike Conley

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Mother confiscates Arkansas National Letter of Intent

2013-02-06T12:37:00.002-08:00

For High School football athletes February 6th was designated as the day young teenagers take their first step into adulthood. The day athletes decide between Iowa Community College and Alabama, these are the most important decisions of their lives. Several athletes will leave the confines of their small community and venture into the world of the unknown to attend colleges 3,000 miles away from home. That's what happened when Defensive End Titus Failauga of Hawaii committed to Oregon State. Today is the day young teens take the opportunity to lay the first conditional foot stones of their professional and educational lives.

So what happens when a parent (mom) wants to keep her cub close to home? Alex Collins a four star running back prospect out of Plantation FL received a National Letter of Intent from Arkansas. Collins had every intention on signing the letter until the paperwork ended up missing. According to several sources Collins mother is disturbed by the prospect of her son leaving home and attending Arkansas. Collins has already pledged a verbal commitment but without the NLI the situation is voided. According to South Florida Sun-Sentinel Collins mother would like him to stay home and possibly attend Miami University.

Unfortunately Ms. Collins is still missing and until she is found Alex Collins will not be signing any type of letter to play at Arkansas, Miami, Florida or any other program until she is found. The story brings us to this question. Should parents have a say in where they allow their teenage athletes to attend college?

Remember when Texas A&M commit Floyd Ravens mother forged his signature and sent his 2011 letter of intent to Mississippi? How much should parents influence their children's decision when it comes to athletic commitments?

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Examining NFL Championship Sunday

2013-01-19T09:20:00.001-08:00

NFL Championship Sunday features four of the most unique football teams in the NFL. New England Patriots high powered offense faces the legends of NFL defense Ray Lewis and Ed Reed in a 2012 AFC Championship rematch. Clearly the Ravens and Patriots are the cream of the crop in the AFC. Ravens style of defense is "Taylor Made" for postseason success led by HOF to be linebackers Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs. Since moving Jim Caldwell from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator the Ravens have become a more balanced on offense scoring over 30pts in two of their last four games. Torrey Smith has become the big play threat Baltimore believed he could become and Anquan Boldin has provided the veteran consistency Ravens needed on the other side of the hash marks. Against the Denver Broncos Torrey Smith looked like Larry Fitzgerald and Joe Flacco passed the football like Kurt Warner. If Baltimore can get that type of impact from the passing game to compliment Ray Rice the Ravens will be flying south for winter and headed to New Orleans. The only question would be what sermon will Ray Lewis preach on Sunday maybe "I can do all things through Christ" would be appropriate.

New England Patriots the model of offensive consistency and NFL postseason attraction is back in the AFC Championship. Tom Brady is undefeated in Foxboro during the postseason and no one questions Bill Belichick even if he is setting up cameras at Ravens practice facilities. Before and after spy gate Patriots continue to be the best franchise since the year 2001. Twelve years of dynasty type consistency builds confidence in any franchise and the ability to adapt has been even better. New England has gone from defensive show stoppers in the early 2000's to offensive juggernauts with Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd and Stevan Ridley. Gronkowski is hurt but the Patriots still have enough weapons to keep the Ravens defense busy. All three of the Patriots Super Bowls have come as #1 or #2 seeds and controlling home field advantage throughout the playoffs. Forward to 2012- 2013 and the Patriots once again have full control of the home field category. Tom Brady's 2012-2013 offense has a lot of weapons and the young defense has been steady all season. In the end Patriots defense must stop the Ravens offense and become the "X Factor" that carries the Patriots to another Super Bowl.

Atlanta Falcons are like the great Phoenix bird born out of fire. For years the Falcons had what is considered possibly one of the best offenses in the NFL. Pro Bowl players at every position Tony Gonzalez, Michael Turner, Roddy White and the young "Matty Ice". We always focused the success of the offense on keeping Matt Ryan cool in the pocket and as the offensive line protection goes so does the Falcons. It was the failure of the offensive line in playoff games that led to playoff failures. Matt Ryan was sacked 28 times this season the worst of his career but the addition of Julio Jones allowed Ryan to have his greatest season as a NFL pro so far throwing 4,719 yards, 32TD's and 99.1 QBR all career highs. Ryan to White is almost as natural as Montana to Rice but can the combo produce a trip to the Super Bowl or orchestrate the take over of New Orleans in a Mardi Gras type festival on Bourbon Street for Falcons fans in New Orleans. Atlanta's "D-Block" defense is one of the best in the NFL overshadowed by the offensive talents the Falcons defense was 5th in scoring points allowed at 18.2 and only allowing more than 29pts twice during the regular season. Sean Weatherspoon is a Pro Bowl caliber player and top notch linebacker in the NFL. Asaunte Samuel, William Moore, Dunta Robinson and Thomas DeCoud monitor one of the best secondaries in the NFL. Falcons have a lot of talent minus the fact their best corner back Brent Grimes has been out all season long.

San Francisco 49ers probably the most feared team in the NFL playoffs is still breathing and ready to bring the heat to Hotlanta. San Francisco's defense is loaded with a list of All Pro and NFC Pro Bowl players Patrick Willis, Navarro Bowman, Aldon Smith, Justin Smith, Dashon Goldson and Donte Whitner. In other words 49ers put fear into the heart of offensive coordinators league wide. What the 49ers poses in defensive talent as a collective group reminds me of the 1985 Chicago Bears. Add a up and coming offense to the mix and San Francisco looks more like a stick of dynamite ready to explode. Colin Kaepernick was beyond good in his first postseason appearance against the Green Bay Packers in the Divisional round, he was awesome rushing for 181 yards. Frank Gore provides a steady dose of smash and pound out of the back field and Vernon Davis when actively targeted is one of the best tight ends in the NFL. Michael Crabtree is exploding before the eyes of the 49ers faithful 9rec, 119yds and 2 TD's versus Packers.

Bottom Line: In my seasons prediction article I pin pointed the 49ers and Patriots as the top two NFL teams. Atlanta Falcons was ranked #3 "So Far, So Good" but is the Falcons home field advantage enough to flip #2 with #3?

"When Seahawks came to the Georgia Dome I sat in section 101 and the Dome was ear piercing loud at times"

Betting Line: +8pts for the Ravens is shaky the game could be closer than expected take Patriots in a straight bet. 2011-2012 AFC Championship score was 20-23 Patriots, Sept 23rd 2012 Ravens defeated Patriots 30-31 both games.

Key to Victory: San Francisco's poor Red Zone offense (52.54%) versus Atlanta's great Red Zone defense (46.81%) is going to be key to which team wins the game. Calling Akeem Dent, Sean Weatherspoon and Jonathan Babineaux. Flip it around and the Falcons hot Red Zone scoring faces the 49ers terrible Red Zone defense. "Yes, terrible" 49ers allow opponents to score on 61.54% of trips to the Red Zone and Falcons score at a 59.09% clip in the Red.

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NFL Playoffs Proved next Generation is Ready!

2013-01-17T08:36:00.001-08:00

Recapping the NFL Divisional playoffs where every game felt like a Super Bowl or Conference championship. Denver Broncos meeting with the Baltimore Ravens was a double overtime thriller. Seattle Seahawks visit to Atlanta to face the Falcons almost ended in the biggest comeback in playoff history as the Falcons pulled out what could be franchise defining victory with a last second field goal and end zone interception by "Julio Jones". New England Patriots defeated Houston Texans 41-28 with Houston scoring 15pts in an attempted comeback in the 4th quarter. In San Francisco the 49ers Colin Kaepernick turned in his best performance of the season rushing for a QB record 181 yards, 2 TD's and passed for 253yds and 2 TD's.

So what did the divisional playoffs show us?
1.) Colin Kaepernick and Russell Wilson appears to be the future of the NFC.
2.) Matt Ryan and Joe Flacco are turning into elite quarterbacks ready to take the next step.
3.) Peyton Manning and Aaron Rodgers still have gas in the tank how much gas is the question?
4.) Offense is starting to exceed defense as 6 out of 8 teams in the divisional playoffs scored over 30pts.
5.) Tom Brady is still the best quarterback in the NFL 344yds 3td's against a good Texans secondary.

Milestones Achieved.
1.) It has to feel great for Tony Gonzalez to finally win a playoff game after 15yrs in the NFL.
2.) Atlanta Falcons Rise Up! at the Georgia Dome as Matt Ryan records his first playoff victory.
3.) Russell Wilson recorded his first 300yd game with 385yds passing.
4.) Colin Kaepernick sets QB playoff record with 181yds rushing

Divisional playoffs proved that after Ray Lewis, Tony Gonzalez, Peyton Manning, and Tom Brady exits the NFL after the season or the next three years the NFL will continue to have a bright future. Names such as Flacco, Ryan, Rodgers, Wilson, and Kaepernick will carry the torch of the National Football League along with Robert Griffin III and Andrew Luck. The offseason of 2013 will be a passing of the torch and the NFL playoffs are proving that the next generation is ready!!!

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NFL Divisional Playoff Weekend

2013-01-11T18:51:00.000-08:00

Last week I covered the NFL Wild Card weekend going 4 for 4 and bringing up several scenarios that would forever be sketched in the minds of fans and NFL writers. Pointing to the emotional ride in Baltimore of Ray Lewis's last game to the ultimate physical destruction of Robert Griffin III in Washington D.C. Twitter follower @TheEsquireof212 in New York asked which NFL teams would cover the lines. Suggestion Seattle Seahawks -3 over the Washington Redskins and Baltimore Ravens - 7 against the Indianapolis Colts that turned out great right Michael?

Now we enter the Divisional round of the NFL playoffs great story lines are endless this weekend as Ray Lewis brings leads the Ravens into Mile High (great name for a stadium especially in Denver) to square off with Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos. The offensive minded Green Bay Packers will try to strike a match at Candlestick Park against the feared defense of the San Francisco 49ers. While the Houston Texans look to revenge a 42-14 loss on December 10th to the New England Patriots and Tom Brady. Last but not least Rookie of the Year candidate Russell Wilson brings the spirit of the Seattle Seahawks 12thMan over 3,000 miles into the Georgia Dome facing high explosive offense of Matt Ryan's Atlanta Falcons.

Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncos Jan 12th 4:30 pm EST (CBS)

Coming into Denver the Baltimore Ravens are playing for their leader and head General Ray Lewis and a chance at the AFC Championship. While the Denver Broncos offense and defense are playing at an elite level. Most sports writers are going to gloat over seeing the Ravens defense face off against Peyton Manning's Broncos offense but the real story is the Denver Broncos third rated defense. The same defense that carried Tim Tebow and his anemic offense to the AFC Divisional playoffs last season. They say Ray Lewis, I say Von Miller, they say Ed Reed I say Champ Bailey, they say Ravens defense I say Broncos defense. I am sure you get the point Peyton Manning is playing with the third best defense in the NFL best defense in the AFC. Broncos offense has scored over 30pts eleven times this season. During the regular season the Ravens have given up 23pts eight times losing six out of eight.

Prediction: Broncos score over 23pts and Willis McGahee will be available for the AFC Championship.

Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers Jan 12th 8:00 pm EST (FOX)

Perfect NFL classic match up 49ers and Packers at Candlestick doesn't get any better than seeing two historic franchises do battle in the playoffs. We can sit here and count championships on both sides but none of this matters on Saturday when Aaron Rodgers squares off against the vaulted 49ers defense and a healthy Justin Smith returning from injury. While the 49ers will enjoy home field advantage on Saturday, Rodgers is no stranger to playoff games on the road winner of three road playoff games and two road victories away from the all time record for Quarterbacks. Still the Packers offensive line has been a house of horrors plainly said "the Packers offensive line is terrible". Rodgers was sacked an NFL high 51 times during the regular season. Aldon Smith and the 49ers defensive front seven will be ready and well prepared to manhandle the Packers up front. Yes, Kaepernick is young his never played in the postseason "blah, blah" but he will be in front of 70,000 of his closes friends at the Stick.

Prediction: San Francisco 49ers will keep the defense hunting all day forcing Aaron Rodgers to launch awkward and untimely passes down the field while the "Smith Brothers" will be eager to clean house.

Seattle Seahawks vs. Atlanta Falcons Jan 13th 1:00pm EST (FOX)

Game of the week two perfectly good teams with contrasting styles squaring off at the Georgia Dome. Atlanta Falcons are a very finesse pass first team with multiple weapons controlled by one of the great young QB's in the NFL Matt Ryan. Seattle Seahawks are a brutal run heavy offense led by Rookie of the year candidate Russell Wilson and Marshawn "Beast Mode" Lynch. Falcons defense is very opportunistic with a ball hawking secondary with a very vanilla type NFL front. Seahawks are big up front, fast in the middle and HUGE in the secondary built on power and speed they posses the number one scoring defense in the NFL. Unfortunately many take this view of comparing offense against offense and defense versus defense this is the wrong approach. This is not Matt Ryan versus Russell Wilson, this is Ryan versus Sherman, Browner and the Legion of Boom. Tony Gonzalez and Jacquizz Rogers play will be the best measure of Falcons success in the NFC Divisional playoffs. Seahawks young linebackers KJ Wright and Bobby Wagner must challenge Gonzalez. On the other end Falcons must attack Marshawn Lynch and wrap up at the point of contact while keeping Russell Wilson in the pocket.

Prediction: One of the best playoff games in recent memory Matt Ryan will have the ball for the last drive seeking a game winning career defining touchdown against the leagues best defense... keyword "seeking"

Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots Jan 13th 4:30pm EST (CBS)

Based on the 42-14 thumping the Patriots handed the Texans in week 14 at Gillette Stadium many are predicting another double digit blowout. Silly Rabbits Trix are for Kids, Texans and Patriots match up really well despite the week 14 debacle Andre Johnson, and Arian Foster are real top 5 players at their positions. Texans defense is very underrated but can they handle Tom Brady?
Facts: Brady is (16-6) in the NFL playoffs a win over the Texans moves Brady over Joe Montana on the all time win list for QB's.Brady undefeated in the playoffs when attempting over 30 passes in a playoff game. Patriots running back Stevan Ridley finished the season with 1,230 rushing yards. Gronkowski is finally healthy. Last main point Brady has finally found chemistry with Brandon Lloyd and the Patriots 2013 team might be better than 2012.

Prediction: Texans will not lose 42-14 expect a closer match up on Sunday still Patriots offense is too much for the Texans to keep up shoot out???

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NFL Wild Card Weekend Ready to Rumble!!!

2013-01-05T01:10:00.000-08:00

The NFL playoffs where legends are born and memories are made to last forever. This season we have the usual Super Bowl type suspects Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Aaron Rodgers joined by the youngsters RGIII, Russell Wilson, and Andrew Luck. Baltimore Ravens Ray Lewis will be playing possibly his last game in Baltimore versus the Indianapolis Colts. Andy Dalton and AJ Green's Cincinnati Bengals have a 2012 divisional round rematch with the Houston Texans. Last but not least Adrian Peterson the greatest running back on the planet faces NFC North divisional rival Green Bay Packers on the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field. Divisional Wild Card round 2013 has all the makings of an unforgettable weekend of NFL football. Time to put the hard hat on and Cleo up with our NFL Wild Card predictions.

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Houston Texans Jan 5th 4:30 pm EST (NBC)

Bengals are on a roll winners of three straight with key wins over Ravens and Steelers to finish the regular season. Last season Andy Dalton and A.J. Green were rookies tasting NFL postseason pressure for the first time. Now that young Bengals have grown some mane lately they are seeking revenge against the Texans. Houston (12-4) enter the playoffs losers of 3 out of 4 regular season games to end the season. Schaub and company are favorites to win at home but a glaring stat reveals the Texans as frauds in BIG games. All four loses are against playoff teams Packers, Patriots, Colts and Vikings. Bengals have a clear shot in this match-up but can they slow the Texans offense?

Prediction: (Houston Texans) Last seasons wild card game was over before it started. This time the Bengals won't fold so easily but the addition of Matt Schaub combined with Arian Foster will have the offense rolling in the 4th Qtr...

Minnesota Viking vs. Green Bay Packers Jan 5th 8:00pm EST (NBC)

Vikings will travel to face NFC North division rival Green Bay Packers and will be relying heavily on the shoulders, back and knees of Adrian Peterson. In two games this season Peterson has rushed for 409 yards and 2 TD against the Packers. Packers have lost four out of the last six playoff games at Lambeau Field and this time the tundra will be frozen with -10 degree wind chill temps. Aaron Rodgers threw for 365 yards and 4 TD's in week 17 match-up against the Vikings. Packers have won 7 straight home games and nothing makes me think the streak will change.

Prediction: (Packers) Simply have more offensive weapons and week 17 proved this could turn into a shootout. Still have weather concerns as it will be bitter cold forcing Packers to think twice when Vikings pound the football with Peterson. After pondering over the facts there is simply nothing to ponder about after all Packers move onto San Francisco and warmer weather in the next round.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens Jan 6th 1:00pm EST (CBS)

Andrew Luck will be the first of three rookie QB's to take the field on Sunday. Colts have been surprising this season Reggie Wayne and Luck have developed a good chemistry allowing the rookie to flourish. Issues still exist with Colts as the defense has allowed 24.2 points per game and the offense has only mustered 22.3 per contest. Teams that allow more points then they can score generally don't make the playoffs and the Colts have been lucky this season. Luck has tossed 18 int's and the Ravens will be hungry to perform as Ray Lewis plays what is reportedly his last game in the NFL. Expect Ray Rice to touch the ball more in this contest as the Ravens ground and pound offense takes flight against the 29th rush defense and Flacco finds open receivers Boldin, Rice and Pitta versus the 21st ranked pass defense.

Prediction: (Ravens) The emotion will be high and the pressure will be fierce Ray Lewis and company will attack the Colts offense all afternoon. No disappointments or upsets here.... hail to #52

Seattle Seahawks vs. Washington Redskins Jan 6th 4:30pm EST (FOX)

Seahawks travel to the Nations Capital Washington D.C. to face off against the Washington Redskins in what could end up as first cross country rival between Robert Griffin III and Russell Wilson. Both rookie signal callers have been excellent this season poise in the pocket and not afraid to mix it up on offense. Two mobile QB's taking the future of the NFL to new levels. Combined RGIII and RW3 have produced 46 TD's and 18 int's. Clearly the two best rookies in the NFL both rely on tough hard nose running backs Redskins Alfred Morris (1613 yds)and Seahawks Marshawn Lynch (1590 yds) ranking 2nd and 3rd among running backs in yards from scrimmage this season. While there are tons of offensive similarities for both teams, the comparisons end on defense where the Seahawks are #1 in the NFL allowing 15.3 pts per game. Brandon Browner returns from suspension and Richard Sherman won his appeal and Seattle's Legion of Boom secondary is the best in the NFL. Winner gets OROY?

Prediction: (Seahawks) Early week reports mentioned that RGIII was looking to shed the knee brace for the playoffs but he is still hobbled and the latest news has him wearing a knee brace on Sunday. RGIII will need to be 100% in order to beat the #1 defense in the NFL as the Seahawks posses both speed and power on defense.

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Brooklyn Nets: Phil Jackson Power, Money and a Legacy

2012-12-29T13:35:00.000-08:00

Drafted by the New York Knicks in the 2nd round of the NBA Draft 1967. Phil Jackson was a member of two NBA Championships in the "Big Apple" 1970 and 1973 as a top reserve member off the bench. These days in Phil Jackson's NBA career are lesser known by many, Phil even missed the 1970 NBA Championship photo shoot.

What is known to a greater extent is the coaching prowess and intelligence that helped meta-morph and catapult the careers of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal to new levels. Hired by the Chicago Bulls as an assistant coach under Doug Collins in 1987. In 1989 after the departure of Collins, Jackson was promoted to head coach. From 1989 - 1998 Jackson coached the Bulls to two "three-peats" equaling six NBA Championships in a nine year span. The greatest span in modern NBA franchise history.

First three-peat included the Bulls knocking off arch nemesis Detroit Pistons. The only franchise standing between the Chicago Bulls and the NBA Championship. Detroit Pistons were the bullies and Phil Jackson was the young coach with the ultra talented NBA superstar Michael Jordan. When the "Bad Boys" Pistons implemented the famed Jordan Rules, Jackson responded with the Triangle Offense a modified version of the Triple Post Offense ala University Southern California and Basketball Hall of Fame coach Sam Barry.
Phil Jackson's and Bulls assistant Tex Winter "Triangle offense" produced NBA Championship victories against Magic Johnson and the Lakers, Clyde Drexler's Portland Trailblazers and Charles Barkley high octane Phoenix Suns.

During the off-season of 1997- 1998 off season tensions and contractual arguments grew between Bulls GM Jerry Krause and Phil Jackson. Tensions led to Krause announcing prior to the season that Jackson would not be returning to the Chicago Bulls "I don't care if it's 82-and-0 this year, you're fucking gone." Krause told Jackson. The Bulls did not finish 82-0 but the final season of the Jordan era concluded in dramatic fashion with the Bulls defeating Karl Malone and John Stockton's Utah Jazz marking NBA Championship number six.

After retiring for a season Phil Jackson took his talents to Hollywood joining the Los Angeles Lakers earning roughly $6 million per season to maintain the ego's of Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. In the first season Jackson coached Lakers to 65-17 regular season and to the NBA Finals defeating the Indiana Pacers this was only the beginning to Jackson's third NBA Finals "three peat" as the Lakers won two additional NBA titles versus Philadelphia 76ers (2001) and New Jersey Nets (2002).

Jackson's departure from Los Angeles after the 2003-2004 season included several spats. Spat #1 Contract agreement Jackson was looking to double his salary from $6 mil to $12 mil. Spat #2 Kobe Bryant it is well documented that Kobe was a hot head a "me-me first player" usually deviating from the Triangle Offense to play one on five basketball against the other team. Spat issue #3 the departure of Shaq when the Lakers traded the greatest center in NBA history to the Miami Heat the writing was drying on the wall. Immediately following his departure the Lakers and Bryant fell hard and during the 2005 season the Lakers rehired Jackson.

The period from 2005-2007 presented Jackson with many obstacles the Lakers roster was mediocre at best. Even with a squad of Smush Parker and Kwame Brown Jackson was still able to coach Lakers to two playoff appearances. During 2007-2008 season LA Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies made a blockbuster trade as Lakers obtained Pau Gasol. With two stars to run the triangle Jackson was able to produce three more trips to the NBA Finals. Though it was not Jackson's usual trifecta Lakers won two out of three NBA Finals losing and then winning against the Boston Celtics and defeating Orlando Magic.

Look over Jackson's career and you will notice several attributes and key elements first his a well disciplined winner prepared to handle any challenge. Only challenges he encountered included greedy, zealous, power hungry GM and owners the other issue was Kobe Bryant.

Jackson understands his worth and command value it would take at least a minimum of $15 mil per season to pry Jackson out of retirement. Nets owner Mikhail Dmitrievitch Prokhorov Russian Billionaire and political figure has no problem shelling out $15 million per season.

Second major issue was the behavior of Bryant causing a distraction so damaging Jackson requested to Lakers ownership and management that Bryant be traded. This hints to Deron Williams the "Coach Killer" who could not understand or get along with NBA Coaching legend Jerry Sloan causing the longest tenured coach in American Major League sports to retire from his coaching post with the Utah Jazz. Over two decades of coaching history. Does Jackson want to inherit the "Coach Killer"?

Third point of notice every Jackson team had a superstar a player that was at the top of the league in individual talent. While the Nets have a good unit Williams and Joe Johnson will never be mistaken for Jordan or Bryant.

Fourth Point does destroying Jackson's Legacy come with a price tag? It is often the coach looking for work with a organization that is worth more than the individual employee. In this case Jackson has 11 NBA Championship rings his legacy is remarkable and that may be worth than what the Nets can offer the Zen Master to tarnish his legacy. Brooklyn Nets are not a true threat to the NBA Championship the organization has zero, yes zero NBA Championships and only four division titles. Why would Jackson bring his legacy to Brooklyn?

Why Would Jackson Bring His Legacy to Brooklyn? Phil Jackson is a Kingpin when it comes to coaching in the NBA and a Kingpin only cares about power. How much is Prokorhov willing to grant Jackson could be the key to any serious negotiations....