My dad says he'd look like Kevin Garnett if he shaved his head

I went to visit my dad last weekend.  For those of you that haven't met him and never will, you're definitely missing out on all sorts of humor. 

Here's his latest gem...

Dad: It's getting harder and harder to cover my bald spot.
Me: Just shave your head.
Dad: Then I'll look like Kevin Garnett...
Me (completely perplexed): Really?

I assure you.  My dad has never and will never resemble Boston Celtics, star Kevin Garnett, but he does know his basketball...  Then again, he did say he needs new glasses...


THE WIRK

Already over the 1st round of the NBA Playoffs - Let's keep it moving please

I'm not going to lie.  For me, fatigue is setting in with the 1st round of the NBA Playoffs.  I'm ready to start the Conference Semifinals.  I'm glad that teams such as the Dallas Mavericks, the Atlanta Hawks, and the Los Angeles Lakers decided to finish up tonight so that we can keep it moving in the NBA on the road to the Finals...

Is it just me or was that Atlanta Hawks v Orlando Magic match-up incredibly painful to watch?   I couldn't get into that series AT ALL.  Thank goodness they kept that game off of TNT tonight.  There is no question that Orlando is worse after the big trade.  As a result, any plan to visit the "new" Amway Arena will be postponed yet another year (i.e. at least).  As for the Hawks, I like Jamal Crawford and have enjoyed the way he's matured as a player, but without Coach Woodson, I just can't actively support this team.  I don't feel like they play inspired basketball.  I remember the Joe Johson Craigs list ad.  Needless to say, I'm taking the Chicago Bulls in the next series.

In contrast to the Hawks v Magic series, I never wanted the Dallas Mavericks v Portland Trail Blazers match-up to end, but all good things...  I enjoy watching the Blazers.  I like the play of LaMarcus Aldridge.  I believe in Brandon Roy and want him to succeed.  The games he played AFTER he complained about his playing time showed me that he wanted to EARN his minutes.  I think he apologized for going to the media to vent his emotions.  I'm glad that he learned that his play speaks for itself.

The Dallas Mavericks v Los Angeles Lakers series should be HOT, but I think the Boston Celtics v Miami Heat will be more exciting.  I remember the Nike Party during NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles this year.  I saw Dirk Nowitzki joking around with Kobe Bryant and flashing him the "L" (i.e. loser symbol).  Sure they shared laughs, but you know the saying ~ "There's truth in humor."  I'm sure that Dirk and the Mavs would like to eliminate the Lakers.  I'm also confident that Phil Jackson would like to leave the Lakers as a WINNER.  I don't question Kobe's heart.  After seeing the way he looked at Pau Gasol, after Gasol had a few "oopsies" in Game 5, I don't want to get on Kobe's bad side.  ****  Seriously.  If looks could kill, the Lakers would be a man down.

As for the eagerly anticipated Celtics v Heat match-up, I really hope that the Celtics manage to "Beat the Heat".  Earlier today I read Jay-Z's Life+Times blog post about Chris Bosh.  I was irritated on various levels after reading the post.  For the sake of completeness, I'll post my comments here.  Here are my comments (forgive the capitalization): "people don't like bosh for a variety of reasons. he actually believes he's at a level that puts him in the same category of wade and james. THIS IS SIMPLY NOT TRUE. bosh's perceived bravado, ineffectivenes, crying, and whining are a few of the reasons why he's the subject of criticism. nobody likes a pompous whiner that's unreliable when it comes to productivity. the heat are wade's team. d wade should get the final shot. bosh should realize that it's an honor JUST for him to be "nominated".

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to read Jay-Z's post about Bosh yourself, here: http://bit.ly/lkVV8p

That's all I have for now.  Like I said, I'm already starting to feel the fatigue of the 1st round.  In my head, I'm already "on to the next one".

****  Oh, and if you're one of those people that watched the NFL Draft today, I really don't know how you do it...  After I heard Cam Newton went #1 to the Carolina Panthers, I lost interest.


THE WIRK

Celtics beat the Heat after a strong 3rd quarter ~ Garnett highlight video

The Boston Celtics beat the Miami Heat after coming out big in the 2nd half.  The Celtics escaped a late Heat rally in the 4th quarter, but the 35 points scored by the Celtics in the 3rd set the tone for the rest of the game.

My favorite play(s) of the game show Kevin Garnett's fire to win.  Garnett makes contact with Mike Miller and Dwyane Wade makes contact with Garnett.  Wade was obviously sending a message to KG that he saw what happened, and both men played on.  Messages sent and delivered, and the passion that the crowd expected to see in Boston was there after what seemed to be a relatively quiet 1st half.

It's the NBA and if you don't like contact, don't play the game.

For the Heat, Chris Bosh was the leading scorer with 24 points, and LeBron had 22.  I don't expect the Heat to win any game where Bosh is the leading scorer, so let him shoot all day long.

As for the Celtics, who came away with the W, Garnett led all scorers with 19.  There was double-digit, balanced scoring among the majority of the Celtics, except for Paul Pierce who only tallied 1 point.  ****  For the record, Nate Robinson was scoreless and Avery Bradley only played 9 seconds and was scoreless.  I'm sure Pierce, Bradley, and Robinson don't mind their individual stat lines this afternoon, since their team was victorious and is now on top of the Eastern Conference.

It came down to the wire, and Mike Miller missing a 3-pointer to tie the game.  Final score was Boston 85 - Heat 82.

Am I the only person that remembers that ridiculous clip of LeBron James counting on his hands the number of championships the Heat will win?!?!  Am I the only person who then heard him backtrack and talk about how it's going to take time for the Heat to build the same chemistry?!?!  Give me a break. 

It's official.  My LeBron Nope T-shirt is lucky!

THE WIRK

Heat v Celtics on ABC right now

If you haven't turned your TV on to ABC right now, do it!  The Miami Heat are in Boston right now taking on the Celtics.  Big game...

I'm ready and suited up in my new LeBron Nope T-shirt.  It cost me $20.  If you want your own Celtics Life gear check out the store: http://www.celticslife.com/p/store.html

Right now the Heat are on top of the Eastern Conference, with the Celtics only a half of a game back.

FYI - I think Delonte West may play this game.  I think he's cleared to return.  Could be interesting...

Go Celtics!!!!


THE WIRK

NBA: My thoughts on the Eastern Conference ~ Can't we just pick 6?

I was talking to my friend, Teri, over the weekend and we were talking about the Eastern Conference and how it's "weak" relative to the Western Conference. 

The final 2 spots in the East as of now are being held by 2 teams that are below .500.  When was the last time any of you basketball fans were clamoring to see the Sixers or the Pacers this year?  Yeah, I know.  Me neither.

1. Boston Celtics
2. Miami Heat
3. Chicago Bulls
4. Atlanta Hawks
5. Orlando Magic
6. New York Knicks
7. Philadelphia 76ers (17-23)
8. Indiana Pacers (16-22)

Granted it's still early, but my initial reaction is "ewwwwwww". 

I like the Boston Celitcs on top and with Kevin Garnett back in the line-up, let's hope they stay healthy. Now I just need to check and see if there's a time table for Kendrick Perkins. I know Perkins has practiced, but last I saw he was on the bench during the game.

I'm anti-Lebron but pro-Dwyane Wade/Erik Spoelstra/Pat Riley, so I'm torn when it comes to the Miami Heat. Even being anti-Lebron, I have to admit that play when he twisted his ankle, went out of bounds, and then drained a 3 from the corner was impressive. Yes, I'm not blind. I saw it, and I was impressed.

How about Derrick Rose's triple double (i.e. granted it was against the Memphis Grizzlies, but it still counts)?!?!  What about Kyle Korver's 3-point shooting?  If those guys can keep up the effort and keep making shots while Boozer is out, then I'd consider the Chicago Bulls to be a viable threat.  I'm just not sure about their strength with Joakim Noah still out of the line-up.

I think the biggest surprise is Atlanta. In the words of Elmer Fudd, they've been "very, very quiet" yet the numbers don't lie (27-15).

I like the Knicks and am impressed with how well Amare Stoudemire is playing.  I anticipate heading to Madison Square Garden again before the NBA All-Star break to catch the Los Angeles Clippers and/or the Los Angeles Lakers in town.  I'm not sure how long the Knicks can continue to "bring it", but I am pulling for them.   

Those are my thoughts on the East.


THE WIRK

Paul Pierce's game winner caps Knicks' 8 game win streak ~ Amare scores 39

With all the hype around the Knicks' streak, I'll admit I watched the game tonight against the Boston Celtics.

OK, that's not an entirely true statement.  I really only paid attention to the 2nd half, and it was in between talking to my cousin, Eileen, and answering rapid fire texts from people who seemingly all decided to start texting at once.

I screamed into the phone, and probably busted Eileen's eardrum when Amare launched the 3 at the end of the game.  Too bad the shot was after the time expired on the clock.  Paul Pierce got the game winner. If you haven't seen the shot (i.e. of course, it's on NBA.com), it's here for your convenience: http://on.nba.com/ijJkwM

During NBA All-Star weekend 2010, I was at a party at the W hotel in Dallas and saw Dino Gallinari.  Usually, I like the Euros, but I wasn't overly excited to see him standing in the room (i.e. maybe because he looks really young to me).  My friend, Teri, and I were talking about him and she thinks he's a great guy.  I don't know him at all, but I do know that he was ballin' in the 2nd half of the game.  I even texted her and told her to get in front of a TV to see him playing well.  He finished a 3-point play, to tie the game at 116.

The Knicks win streak ends at 8.  Amare Stoudemire's streak of 30 or more points a game, extends to 9.  I stopped counting when he scored 31 points, but NBA.com says he ended the night with 39 points and 10 boards.

AS = Amare Stoudemire = All-Star!

Paul Pierce had 32 points, 10 rebounds, and the game winner...

Celtics defeated the Knicks 118-116. 

I need to get to the The Garden...  Maybe I'll go on Wednesday (i.e. for the Thunder v Knicks game).


THE WIRK

Heat are getting worked by the Celtics, and no one in Miami cares

The past 2 weeks, as soon as I land, the first person I've seen on TV is my ex... Thank you, ESPN (i.e. sarcasm)...  I'm loving the fact that the it's the 3rd quarter and the Boston Celtics are beating the Miami Heat.  There are so many empty seats in the American Airlines Arena.  Told you all the bandwagon jumpers would jump off, just as quickly as they jumped on.

The only time Heat fans will support the team is in the finals.  I know.  I was there for Game 5, in 2006, when they were up against the Dallas Mavericks.  Miami won that game (i.e. with a score of 101-100) and eventually went on to win the NBA Championship after winning Game 6.  That season Shaquille O'Neal and Dwyane Wade were both members of the Miami Heat, and Riley was still coaching.

Here are a few pictures I took at the game. 

I'm a huge Pat Riley fan

With Dirk Nowitzki at the line,

the crowd chants DA-VID HASSEL-HOFF

Dwyane Wade with a dunk. 

Game over

Based on LeBron's strong performance, I wonder if he is going to use his "I can't do it all by myself," speech (ala Cleveland) in the post-game press conference when the Heat lose...

Anyone remember these quotes from Jeff Van Gundy? 

"They will break the single-season win record [of 72],” Jeff Van Gundy said. And I think they have a legit shot at the Lakers’ 33-game [winning] streak [in 1971-72], as well. And only the Lakers have even a remote shot at beating them in a playoff series. They will never lose two games in a row this year."

Hey, Jeff Van Gundy, guess what?!?!  The Heat just lost two games in a row!!!  How about them apples?!?!  So much for your prediction, but hey ~ at least you had the nerve to take a shot! :-P


THE WIRK

Miami Heat v Boston Celtics ~ Thoughts from the 4th quarter

We're in the final stretch...  Miami Heat v Boston Celtics, 4th quarter action starts now.  Let's do this...

• Zydrunas is still in the game.  I think he played the entire 3rd quarter.  I think he just picked up his 4th foul.  He's hitting the bench with 10:53 in the 4th left.
• Chris Bosh missed.  He's now 3 for 11 from the field.
• Udonis Haslem hit his shot to cut the Boston lead to 5.  There are just under 9 minutes left on the clock.  ****  Yep, I was right.  It looks like Boston has let up.  Come on, Celtics!!!!
• Since I've seen it at least twice now, I should probably comment.  I like the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar commercial.  I'm glad they didn't show him wearing his shape ups though.  When I think "sexy, toned legs" I don't think of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
• I think the faux-hawk is working for Big Baby Davis.  He just extended the Celtics lead to 6 after some guy on the Heat had cut it to 4.
• Pierce must be feeling better, since he just drained a 3.  The Boston lead is back to 6 with just over 7 minutes to go.
• I need to check the roster.  Who is Jones on the Heat?  No, it's not Eddie. 
• That Jones guy on the Heat just fouled Paul Pierce behind the 3-point arc.  Thank you, Jones!  Pierce is perfect from the line (e.g. 6 for 6) and the Celtics lead by 11, with about 4 and a half minutes left.
• Kevin Garnett shot and got his own rebound and passed it to Big Baby who drained his shot.  Beautiful!  13 point Boston lead.
• Just saw the stat line.  LeBron has 26 points and the Heat is losing.
• LeBron is on fire.  Just drained a 3.  Still losing, but by 8 now.  He just launched another 3 and missed.  Hehehehe :-P
• They're showing Erik Spoelstra now.  I feel bad for him.  If he can't get those 3 guys to win, I'm guessing he's going to lose his job.  Don't worry, Erik!  I liked you when you were sitting on the other end of the bench, so you will still have a fan in me.
• Heat on an 8-0 run and the Boston lead is only 5.  Miami has the ball, and LeBron just cut the lead to 3.  LeBron now has 30 points.
• Under a minute to go, Boston with the ball, Ray Allen just drained a 3!  His mom and I are on our feet!!!!!!  Celtics up by 6 with 49.8 on the clock. 
• Dwyane Wade just missed his 3 point attempt. 
• Celtics using the clock, playing smart.  Wade waited a while, and fouled Pierce.  I wonder why he didn't foul right away.
• Pierce at the line with 27.4 on the clock.  He makes both free throws.  Celtics up by 8.
• The Boston crowd is loudly chanting O-VER-RATED.  I love it!!!!

Game over.  Celitics win 88-80.  LeBron had 31 points. Bosh and Wade's numbers aren't worth mentioning.  The Miami Heat are 0-1.  Only 81 more games to go!  ****  If I have to watch a Bosh interview after this I might scream.


THE WIRK

Miami Heat v Boston Celtics ~ Thoughts from the 3rd Quarter

Getting ready for the start of the 3rd quarter.  Thankfully I finished eating dinner.  Just heard the "LeBron isn't a bad guy" speech for the 100th time.  Whatever.  To quote Billy Joel, "You can speak your mind, but not on my time." 

****I don't realize why people think they can change my mind.  I've never been one to be swayed by the arguments that have been provided.  I don't understand why people can't just agree to disagree.  You can have your own opinion about LeBron.  I don't try to change your mind.  So ask yourself, why it's so important for you to change mine?

• Charles Barkley has lost a lot of weight.
• Ray Allen just drained his third 3 from the corner.  It still electrifies the crowd.
• With 7:11 left in the 3rd, Zydrunas is checking back in. 
• He just had a chance at a shot in the key a foot or 2 ahead of the free throw line and passed the ball.  Hmmm... 
• Shaq just missed his free throw.  A few Celtics went into the lane to slap him 5.  I think Zydrunas almost went into the lane to do the same, but he caught himself.  Weird.
• Zydrunas is fouled by Big Baby Davis, so he's at the line.  He missed his free throw. 
• Pierce just got called for a foul, but LeBron charged.  It's a bad call.  No bueno. 
• LeBron has 16 points, and the Boston lead is only 10.
• Wait, Ray Allen just drained another 3, so the lead is back to 13.
• Pierce looks like he might be a little banged up now.  He looks like he's wincing on the bench after LeBron ran into/over him.
• Whoa!  Who's the guy sitting next to the left of Pierce?  Uh oh.  Pierce is headed to the locker room.
• Big Baby Davis shoots and scores over Zydrunas ~ so much for 7 feet of defense...
• In case you didn't know, Ray Allen would like to inform you that the NBA Cares.
• Is it just me, or is Boston looking like they let up a bit? Miami has cut the lead to 10.  Score is 53-63, but Boston is still up.
• LeBron just scored another bucket.  He has 25, and the Boston lead is cut to 6. 

Hmmm, looks like in typical NBA fashion ~ the game will be decided in the 4th.


THE WIRK

Miami Heat v Boston Celtics ~ Thoughts during 1st Quarter

Opening night for NBA action, and since I'm "trapped" watching the game I figured I'd start a string of bullets to collect my thoughts as I watch and listen to this Miami Heat v Boston Celtics game.  I will admit, right now.  I'm from Ohio.  I used to be a huge LeBron proponent.  I am/was very familiar with the Cleveland Cavs organization and I'm still DISGRUNTLED and ANNOYED with "The Decision".  I understand, LeBron had the right to leave.  I'm one of those people that thinks that THE WAY he did it, was classless. 

Oh, and I must mention that I saw his latest Nike commercial earlier today.  I think it sucks.  And "Yes," LeBron, you ruined your legacy.

• I want the Boston Celtics to win tonight. 
• I want the Miami Heat to go 0-82.
• Poor Craig Sager, having to interview Chris Bosh before the game.   I wonder just how bad, Miami's record has to be, before Bosh will stop getting interviewed.  I'm tired of hearing that Miami's 3 (i.e. Wade, LeBron, and Bosh <--- I think I just threw up in my mouth typing "Bosh") didn't have much court time together.  Sooo sorry, there wasn't much rehearsal time due to injuries...  That's LIFE.  Suck it up. 
• It's good to see Steve Kerr on TV again.  Hmmm, that reminds me of that I used to date a guy that looked just like him...  ****Not sure what that means or how it's relevant, but this is my blog so I can include whatever I want.
• LeBron is still doing the chalk into...  Guess that's gonna stay.
• Shaquille O'Neal as a Celtic...  I hope it works out for him and for Boston fans better than it did during his stint with the Phoenix Suns.  I want to see Boston succeed with Shaq...  However, I must admit I don't expect much out of the big fella.
• The score is Miami: 8, and Boston: 14.  I am thrilled.
• Dwyane Wade is 0-4 from the field right no.  Game is a little boring.
• They just showed Erik Spoelstra.  Ok, I'm back to being interested in this game again.
• Not only is Wade 0-4, he as 3 turnovers and just sat down on the bench.

End of the 1st Q ~ Heat 9. Boston 16.  Ugh, now they're showing that stupid Nike commercial again.  How long is this commercial?  It feels like it's 7 minutes long...  Yuck.


THE WIRK

My vacation to Atlantis ~ sun, fun, and Rondo

I've been going to Atlantis since the mid-90s...  Prior to that I was a regular at the Crystal Palace on Cable Beach.  Don't believe me?  Why would I lie?  Once or twice a year, I'd be there dancing poolside with Stephen and Ray, playing Bahamian trivia for prizes (i.e. the prizes used to be airline sized bottles of coconut rum).  Did I know any of the Bahamian trivia answers?  Nope.  But the little girls (i.e. daughters of the hair braiders) would tell me the answer and I'd just phonetically repeat/shout the answer.  It was a great racket.

Those of you familiar with the Bahamas know that Cable Beach WAS the place to be.  Once Atlantis was built, I never looked back.  I've been to Atlantis countless times.  Many a boyfriend has made the trip with me and one even ended up buying a place over there while we were together.  I swear, the property should pay me a commission.

Regardless, this time around I went solo.  I'm not even going to get into the reason why I went solo, in this blog ~ it's not your business and I'm still annoyed, but as a single traveler to Atlantis I must say, I'd go by myself AGAIN in a heartbeat.  I love my family and friends, but I can't wait for them to align their plans with mine.  Lucky for me, I'm an independent person and a creature of habit.  Since I've been to Atlantis so many times I was very comfortable being by myself.  But let's face it ~ large resorts are similar to Vegas (i.e. you're alone, but not really alone).  Further, since I've been there so many times, I have people there that I look forward to seeing.

When I looked at the weather I was concerned about rain and Hurricane Earl.  Earl Schmearl.  I had great weather and spent my afternoons outside by the pool.  I rode the rapids in a tube, tried all 4 slides in the Power Tower and indulged in pina coladas.  I spent the evenings in the sports book and at the craps table.   YES, I'm still a WINNER and made all of my money on the last night.  Resort gamblers bother me.  I feel as though they're not lucky.  The tables were so hot that Monday night was AMAZING.  Craps is a social game and I'm friends with a couple of casino dealers (i.e. Cliff and Leslie) so I was more than comfortable.  Leslie was on vacation, but Cliff was working.  They've known me for at least 15 years...  Crazy, huh?!?!  They asked about my dad and said they haven't seen him in a while.  That's right, I have eyes in the Bahamas :)

One night I saw Boston Celtics' star, Rajon Rondo, playing craps at my table.  He was a quiet guy, but was playing with $100 black chips and trying to make money on the "hard ways". The table was ice cold though.  ****  Incidentally, Rondo just updated his Facebook group with the following status:  "Business as usual around here...working out daily, spending time with family and getting ready for the season."

I took advantage of my time and actually visited Dolphin Cay this trip.  I did the deep water swim and the sea lion interaction.  I even mastered snorkeling (i.e. I hate choking on water with a snorkel and prefer scuba diving).  I got to kiss, dance, and swim with the dolphins.  I saw the medical lab and food preparation areas for the animals and then was able tokiss, pet, and hug Cassie sea lion.  ****  Cassie is famous.  She's met Joe Jonas, Justin Bieber, and now THE WIRK.  What a great adventure!

Atlantis' is offering great deals through October.  They're offering free companion airfare and 4th night free promotions.  It's hurricane season, but I've always taken advantage of the deals and never really had a problem with weather.  The hotel isn't very crowded.  Hotel lounges that used to be packed are empty, but I don't mind it being less crowded.

I'm not too time conscious when I'm on vacation, but if you're impatient and Type A ~ you might want to reconsider a trip to the Bahamas.  The transfer shuttle isn't on time and you'll spend some time waiting, but as a native Bahamiam once told me, "Don't complain.  You're in Paradise."  She's absolutely correct.  Atlantis is still one of my favorite destinations on the planet!

THE WIRK

Delonte West returns to the Boston Celtics

Delonte West is trending worldwide on Facebook right now... 

It appears that Danny Ainge has brought him back.  If you remember, Ainge was the one who brought him to Boston six years ago.  Since then, West has played most recently with LeBron James in Cleveland for the Cavaliers. 

Here's a picture I took with Delonte in the foreground and LeBron in the background.

****  Insert your own joke.

Cleveland subsequently moved Delonte to the Minnesota Timberwolves where, ultimately he was waived.

At any rate, the Boston Celtics v Miami Heat match-up just became a little more interesting. LOL!!!  :-P


THE WIRK

2010 FIFA World Cup Predictions ~ Brazil to win it all? Agree or Disagree?

With the USA eliminated from competition, I'll admit that I've tuned out of the World Cup.  If walking by a TV, with a match on, I'll stop and check the score ~ but I really have no idea anymore about who I want to win.

I received the following message today from my good friend, Kanak.  I found it funny that she even sent it, since she's not a sporty person.  To be honest, I nearly fell out of my seat when she texted me (i.e. during Game 7 of the Los Angeles Lakers v Boston Celtics series) that Sasha Vujacic needed to shave!  I couldn't believe the girl even had the TV on still, much less was watching and cared enough to read the names on the jerseys.  She said she checks into this blog ~ and now I believe her. 

Further, being that she lived in Brasil/Brazil, she does have interest in soccer/futbol. So here are her 2 cents and predictions for the rest of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. 

Here's what SHE wrote:

" Ok...Soooo I wanted to send my predictions to you.  I know you aren't that into soccer, but I am super EXCITED, and you are the only one that might half way care now that the US is out."

• Argentina will beat Germany easily, to face Portugal next (i.e. who will beat Spain today and move on to beat either Paraguay or Japan). 

1st half ~ Spain v Portugal (Photo taken by, Wirk Part 2)

• I couldn't care less about either of those teams and who wins that game (i.e. Paraguay v Japan).
• Brasil/Brazil (will make it to the semifinal because they are playing the Netherlands for the spot, and if they lose to them I just have to hang my head in shame...lol!.  
• Brasil/Brazil will probably face Uruguay (i.e. even though Ghana was looking strong, I don't think they can beat Uruguay), as a face-off for the 1950 World Cup Final, but hopefully with inverted scoreboard (2 x 1 Brasil, this time).  
• Argentina will make it to the semi-finals for sure.
• I don't care what people say about Germany, I don't think they are going.
• Final Brasil/Brazil v Argentina, neighbor x neighbor, mortal enemies.
• And if all goes well Brasil/Brazil will be the NUMBER ONE! Woohoo!"

****  What do you think?  1950 World Cup?  What is "inverted scoreboard"?  Is she right? 


Kanak, for THE WIRK

2010 NBA Finals Los Angeles Lakers pregame video

For those of you that have never been to the Staples Center, here's the video that was shown on the scoreboard before the Los Angeles Lakers home games (i.e. during the 2010 NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics).

I shot the video before Game 6.  Enjoy!




THE WIRK

Ron Artest's NBA Championship post-game interview and celebration

So many people are so quick to hate and not congratulate.  Have you see, Ron Artest's post-game interview after the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics in Game 7 for the NBA Championship?  The sincerity in his emotions and the joy in his actions and his voice are visibly and audibly genuine.  I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the biggest Ron Ron fan, but I cannot help but like him after watching him come up huge in a couple of games in this series and after this interview. 

Sports are one of the few forums where men will actually let down their guard and let out their human vulnerabilities.  Men can play the game like boys and still come out champions!



Want to know what happens after the interview, when Ron went to "the Club".  Well, according to the following ESPN article by Sam Alipour, Ron Ron went out to "the Club" in full uniform and then eventually gave his uniform to Chris Brown.  Why not?!?!  It's Ron Ron...  He's come a LONG way from the Pistons-Pacers brawl.  He's a Champion now.


THE WIRK

The Lakers are the NBA Champions, and I argue with a Celtics fan after Game 7

This is a picture of my losing betting slip.  The Lakers are the new NBA Champions, as they defeated the Boston Celtics tonight by a margin of less than 7 points.

During the games, when I watch from home I usually am logged into my Twitter account, to further entertain myself and read other people's witty comments during the game.  I follow about 100 other people.  If you're sports-related and you make me laugh, chances are I follow you. 

I follow TheBigLead on Twitter, and towards the end of the game they tweeted:  Kobe makes 2 FTs. Boston misses, Fouls ... Lakers make 2 FTs? Maybe? #soyouresayingtheresachance

Now, being that I knew the spread I knew exactly what they were talking about!

Oh well, at least I cleaned up nicely at the craps table, to compensate for the bad bet.  At the end of the day, the missed free throws hurt me, but the craps table loved me so who cares! :-P

-------------------------------------

Ever argue with a fan of a losing team?  It's pointless.  Friends shouldn't use another person's facebook pages to vent about their team's loss.  I didn't beat the Celtics.  I didn't play a single minute or score a single point.  I was at Game 6.  I'm an old school Lakers fan, even though I'm not a Kobe Bryant fan.  After what I saw in Game 6, and knowing that Perk probably wasn't going to play in Game 7, I thought the best bet was Lakers -7.  Turns out, I was wrong.  But ~ am I the one crying about my loss?  Nope.  Instead, I get this exchange ~ which is here for your reading pleasure.  They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but in this case it's worth about 40 comments!  ****  And yes, I edited the exchanges because one day my mom might read this blog!

Cry Baby: Yeah I'm glad u lost that bet. I hope u put a lot of money on it.

Me: hey, poor loser, are you blind? it's only 440, and i cleared $1100 with craps so who cares.

Cry Baby: Glad u lost.

Me: go cry on someone else's page

Cry Baby: Lemme guess, you're betting against Strasburg tomorrow too....

Cry Baby: Not on ur page, don't over-indulge yourself.

Cry Baby: Traitor

Me: yeah - you are. it's my pic.

Me: i'm an old school lakers fan, just anti-kobe ~ so play nice or get off my page

Cry Baby: Screw your $440. Glad you lost. You have nothing to show for it. You know you're not a Lakers fan.  You rooting for White Sox tomorrow too? I bet you are.

Me: i have tons of kareem stuff and magic posters in my bedroom (i.e. childhood bedroom and colllege dorm room). $440 is nothing (i.e. i'd won a lot more in vegas recently) - i don't care about it and that's why i bet it. go cry.  get a life and stay off my page. and yes, i would bc i don't care about the nats. i'd root for strasburg though.

Cry Baby: Cavs are dogsh*t. Swallow that.

Me: both aren't NBA champs this year, so it sounds about even to me. don't you have to work tomorrow. maybe you should get some sleep. no one here wants to see you cry

Cry Baby:  do you EVER work? 71 venues is indicative of a tough work schedule.

Me:  i never said i had a tough work schedule ~ don't hate me because my life is a hell of a lot easier than yours :-P

Cry Baby: You know what, nevermind. Go Lakers in your head. Your allegiance it commendable.

Me:  i grew up on the lakers. and became a CAVS fan bc of my ex-fiance and being that i'm from ohio. maybe one day you'd actually know what you're talking about and then who knows you could possibly be dangerous ~ not saying you need to read my blog, but if you can read - perhaps you should check it. i'm a lakers fan but anti-kobe, but last i checked he's only 1 player.

Cry Baby:  Dogshit

Me:  loser

Cry Baby: Traitor  Go White Sox huh?

Me: get a life, and sure - why not? i'm not from here.

Cry Baby:  In the end, Lakers are still 2nd best. Bite me.

Me:  tonight nobody cares...

Cry Baby: So The Wirk is all about the Lakers next year? Or whatever team LaBron goes to? Or a hybrid or either??? Or do you dare to follow the Cavs no matter what happens?

Me: everyone is a potential reader! next year is next year - read the blog and find out.

Cry Baby: Honestly, u shouldn't be slanted in any direction to be a reputable writer.

Me:  i can do whatever i want bc it's MINE ~ that's the beauty of it! and when you do anything remotely interesting that draws my attention, i'll be sure to give you some pointers on it too :)

Cry Baby: That's fine. I remember being remotely interesting when you posted me on your blog when the C's beat the Cavs this year. Congrats, your favorite team won the title this year!!!! Good for you!!!!!

Me: nice try - thewirk.com superfan, but you're obv keeping up bc you knew i hit 71 venues and even my mom doesn't know that. lmao!!! sooooo, thanks for your support and have fun at work tomorrow. i'm gonna hit orbitz since i have about $700 to play with and even though i lost, my life is still better than yours right now. keep on truckin' :-P

Cry Baby: Has nothing to do with my last statement. Now ur just saying ur cooler than I am. Sweet. I'll wake up tomorrow morning and beg to God I can be as cool as you some day.

Me: not sure when your boss wants you at work, but if you're gonna add prayer to your routine, you should go to bed soon. have a great night!

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My favorite Tweets from the game:

THEWIRK: now begins the slowest, most boring time of the year - the lull where there is only #baseball, and everyone holds their breath for #football


sportspickle Is Bill Russell getting so old he thinks he played for the Lakers?
---  Good to know that I wasn't the only one who thought it looked strange to see Bill Russell with all the Lakers.

THEWIRK: is it bad that i chuckled that ron ron thanked his psychiatrist... what a game though ~ he was stellar!
---  You have to give Ron Artest his props.  He played HUGE.

sportspickle: And Scalabrine is back in the game. Shelden Williams should probably retire now.

THEWIRK: my twitter feed has "brian #scalabrine" trending and not "justin #bieber"... the world is coming to an end!
---  Speechless.

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Now like, I tweeted we wait for football and enjoy the summer with baseball...  Take me out to the ball game!


THE WIRK

Game 6: Lakers dominate the Celtics and force a Game 7

By now we all know that Game 6 of the Boston Celtics v Los Angeles Lakers series was a blow out.  Being that the Lakers had to win or go home, it was a HUGE game for Laker fans.  The ONLY place to be for a Laker fan with the means and a little bit of luck was the Staples Center!

I should've known that the Lakers were going to win when I was walking into the arena.  I am usually good luck.  Also, while walking into the building I heard the ESPN radio guys, say that Tom Izzo turned down the Cleveland Cavaliers job.  ****  Yep, you were right, Soup.  I should've listened to you, from the start!

Christina Aguilera sang the National Anthem before the game.  She watched most of the game with her husband in seats on the baseline.

Opening Tip

I posted my pictures from the game 6 last night, and a friend pointed out today that the score with 1:55 left in the 4th Q, was the final score of the game.  NO buckets in the last 2 minutes of the game...  I guess, why even bother.  The Celtics had basically stopped competing and the number 59 seemed to live on the scoreboard for the longest time.  59 points.  If you would've told me that the Celtics would have scored only 59 points, "For the Longest Time" (i.e. now I have that Billy Joel song in my head), I would've told you that you were crazy.

Kendrick Perkins' presence (i.e. or lack there of) was palpable.  He left the game in the 1st, with what I hear is a hyper-extended right knee.  I never really realized how much of an impact he made, until he was gone.  Great.  Now I have a song from the hair band, Cinderella, in my head.  If you want more information on the injury or want to see the video, check out Sekou Smith's Hang Time Blog.  According to everything I've read and heard, Perk isn't going to play in Game 7, Thursday night.

Celtics team checking on Kendrick Perkins who's on the court

At the end up the 1st Q, the Lakers were up 10 on the Celtics with a score of 28-18.

At the end up the 2nd Q, the Lakers were up 20 on the Celtics with a score of 51-31.

Don't get excited.  I have tons of rally towels for all sorts of teams...

As much as I'm not a Kobe Bryant fan, I have to admit he does put up excellent numbers.  Numbers don't lie.  He ended the game with 26 points, 11 boards, and 3 assists. 

For you gamblers out there, here's some information.  I was just in Vegas and the spread on the game is Lakers -7.  If I remember correctly, the Money Line was Lakers -360 and Celtics +280.  I also checked covers.com earlier in the evening and the consensus was about 60% Celtics and 40% Lakers.  Just saying...

I was lucky enough to score a ticket at the last minute to Game 6.  I was on my way to the Staples Center and ended up parking in the Venice garage on/around 15th and Figueroa for $12.  The garage was just past the Convention Center.  Thank goodness I got there early, since the parking lots (i.e. that weren't already full at 4PM) were filling up quickly. 

At the arena, I immediately texted my friends and gave them my coordinates, but I wasn't about to get up and chase people around.  I'd just finished my Mickey Mouse Scavenger Hunt, and I was exhausted.  I wanted the game to begin, and I was surrounded by a sea of Lakers fans.  That reminds me, I couldn't help but notice a Celtics fan who had a purse.  I swear it was on his shoulder.  Now I realize it's probably his wife's purse, but seriously?!?!  ****  Ladies, don't make your men carry your purse ~ it makes them look ridiculous.  If you love your man at all, carry it yourself.  The guy was getting ripped on by entire sections in the arena the entire game, and if you ask me he was asking for it.  It definitely wasn't the smartest move he could've made.

Game 6 ended with a final score of 89-67.  Lakers dominated.

Game 7 is Thursday night at 9PM EST.  I won't be at the Staples Center, but I'll be watching.


THE WIRK

Staples Center, Game 6 Eve: Boston Celtics v Los Angeles Lakers

Ever been to the Staples Center?  I have.  I'm proud to say that I've been there twice now.  I'm an old school Lakers fan.  I'm not a Kobe Bryant fan so it's been tough watching the Los Angeles Lakers play the Boston Celtics in the finals. 

I'm a Cleveland Cavaliers fan, so without a real horse in the race ~ I'm conflicted.  Anywhere but in LA, I'd probably root for Boston.  However, "when in Rome" and being an old school Lakers fan, I HAD to get myself into the game and root for the Lakers.  Yeah, I know...  It hurts me too.

Here are some pictures I took while running around the Staples Center recently (i.e. the eve of Game 6).

Magic Johnson ~ if you don't like him, there's probably something wrong with you

Chick Hearn and I

THE WIRK

Layover in Vegas? Hit the craps table, and win big quickly!

I had some time to kill...  I didn't know why I booked the flights I did and then it hit me.  I booked the itinerary since the plane connected in Las Vegas.  So what does one do with a 3 hour layover in Vegas?  I don't know what other people do, but I definitely had a plan.

Ok - I probably actually only had about 2 hours to get out of the airport, catch a cab, throw my bag at a bell stand, place a bet, chat with friends, hit the craps table, WIN BIG, cash out, get lunch, head back to the airport, clear security, and board my plane.

I went to my favorite place, the Venetian and checked the boards.  While I settled in and looked at the numbers I realized just how quiet it was in the place.  Oh well - better for me, so there were no lines and I could maneuver and do what I wanted to do efficiently.

I placed my bet for Game 7 for the Boston Celtics v Los Angeles Lakers game.  Who did I take?  Well, maybe I'll tell you and/or post a picture of the ticket after the game tomorrow night.

After chatting it up and catching up with my favorite dealers, I went to the craps table and cashed in $200.  There was only one craps table open and as usual, I was the only girl.

In about 20 minutes I had 3 shooters and the last shooter made me my money.  Since it was an off-peak time, the table minimum was $10.  I seem to win faster and better when I'm on a time crunch.  It's just something I noticed about myself.  Regardless, this outing was no different.  All of my come bets had may odds and were paying out and he also hit a hard 6.  Wouldn't you know I had $20 on "Scottie Pippen" and it paid 10X1.

Having to catch my flight, all my bets came down and it all worked according to "plan".  I looked around the table and I was impressed at how well I'd done in such little time compared to the oldies (i.e. but goodies) that surrounded me.  What can I say?  My dad taught me well!

Forget chicken ~ WINNER!  WINNER!!!  LOBSTER DINNER...  Too bad there was no time :)

Too easy!

THE WIRK

Celtics fans score with Kobe Bryant Nope T-shirts, but Lakers win Game 3

Game 3 is in the books.  The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Boston Celtics 91-84, and Derek Fisher cried at the end of the game...  Yeah, I don't know either.  I saw that he scored 16 points, but seriously, what did I miss?!?!

Regardless, I could lie and tell you that I watched the entire game ~ but I didn't.  I was rooting for the Celtics and the 1st quarter looked promising.  I also saw the Celtics come back in the 4th.  What did I do in between that time?  I ate and jazzed up this blog...  Don't judge me!  We all make choices...

I also went through my email and looked for a picture that my friend, Ning, sent me from Boston.  Now that the Celtics are playing the Lakers, vendors in Boston are now selling Kobe Nope T-shirts.  Check it out.

Kobe Bryant Nope T-shirt

Boston might need more than T-shirts to reign Kobe in.  Bryant ended the game with 29 points after shooting only, 10-29...  Definitely not a typical performance, but it was enough for the Lakers to eek out a road win.  Kevin Garnett came up strong with 25 points, but it didn't take a look at the box score to see how rough a game Ray Allen had. 

Ray Allen only had 2 points tonight.  He went 0-13.  Don't believe me?  Check the box score.  Very tough night for the shooter.  Here's hoping he finds his groover and returns to form.  Shooters are by nature "streaky".  They're either on fire or ice cold. I wonder if Ray Allen could see his own breath tonight...

Anyway Lakers are up 2-1 now, and Game 4 is on Thursday. 


THE WIRK