The 2011 NBA Draft was a yawner ~ Might as well try to laugh about it

For the sake of being comprehensive here are my favorite tweets from the NBA Draft that was held on Thursday night.  Yes, it was boring ~ so the least we can do is laugh at it.  Enjoy!

• JayBilas - Because it was a weak Draft, I took a shot every time I said "wingspan". I was out on my feet by the ninth pick.
• THEWIRK - Is the movie "The Air Up There" shown on planes or listed as a favorite movie in media guide for any NBA scouts?!?! Just curious. #NBADRAFT
• Blackwolf303 King Timoteohuacan  - How much wud, cud a chukwudibere chuk, if a chukwudibere cud chuk wud? #NBA
• THEWIRK - Isiah Thomas was the last name I heard watching the #NBADRAFT. Great. Sleeping w/lights on tonight. Guaranteed nightmares... Yuck.
• THEWIRK - #NBADRAFT is getting really weird. Fran Fraschilla earning his money now. Who's the international scout for the #Twolves? Carmen SanDiego?
• THEWIRK - It's not fair to refer to Kyrie Irving as Cleveland's New King. Just because LeBron wanted that moniker, doesn't mean Irving does. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Somebody remind Jeff Van Gundy that Rashard Lewis is a #Wizard... #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - @thenyknicks David Bowie is excited to have Iman also... Wait. What are we talking about?!?!
• THEWIRK - Wait. A Michigan player just got drafted before an Ohio State Buckeye. Grrrr. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Bobcats Jeremy Tyler might be more well-travelled & versed in internat'l affairs than a certain female politician from Alaska. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Jordan #Williams was just being compared to Mike #Sweetney. That can't be good. #Nets #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Shelvin #Mack just got picked up by the #Wizards. I like it. Mack can play. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Singler is another guy that will have to get used to a less successful program now that he's in the #NBADRAFT #sothisiswhatlosingfeelslike
• THEWIRK - #Pistons take #Singler. I'm sure he won't stick out in Detroit. He should've come out last year. Trick shot? No one cares. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Harper is going to the #Cavs and no, we're not talking about "Ron"... #NBADRAFT
• thesportsgeeks - Someone tell Tom Penn that calling the heat a "dynasty" might be a little premature.
• THEWIRK - #heat picked #bogdanovich. People will start hating him right about "now" since he joined the unholy union. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Spurs take #Joseph from Texas. Bilas says he has big hands and isn't a finisher. He's prob too young to play w/vets anyway. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - The team with the most guards wins, right?!?! #Twolves #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Bulls need someone who isn't soft and close out games in the playoffs... Come on, Bulls. Never mind. Pick going to #Twolves #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Celtics get Marshon #Brooks. Well, Bilas seems to like him. Wait. Bilas just said Brooks "doesn't guard". #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Do you know your wingspan? #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Thunder get Reggie #Jackson. Guy hasn't been weighed/measured and isn't in bldg. Next commercial, I'm measuring my wingspan. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #rockets take #mirotic and there's basically silence. I think people are using the google app on their phones right now. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Nuggets at 22 take #Faried and the Newark, NJ crowd goes "wild". Well, at least they got excited for their hometown guy. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Nolan #Smith heading to Portland #Trailblazers... I like it. More fire power. #NBADRAFT
• jadande - " A conscientious objector on the glass"? "Seems not to care?" Congrats, T-Wolves
• THEWIRK - Doesn't say much when a teammate said the coach used Brian Skinner over #Montiejunas' apathy. I remember Skinner as a Cav. Meh. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Was David Stern actually laughing when he announced the #Twolves were taking #Montiejunas from Lithuania? #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Tobias #Harris is in the bldg but not in the green room. Does that mean he was sitting in the stands? He's headed to #Bobcats #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Wizards take #Singleton from fsu. All the guys in green room have been taken. Wonder how it feels to be picked last. Exhale. #NBADRAFT
• jadande -  RT @ESPNForsberg: Knicks fans pumped about Shumpert: http://twitpic.com/5fvt4k
• TheBillWalton (The Bill Walton Trip) - With the 17th pick, Isiah Thomas selects Iman Shumpert as drunken Knicks fans voice their displeasure.
• THEWIRK - #Knicks at 17 take #Shumpert. Oh my. He's not even in there. Not good. I looked away, but I think Spike Lee said, "WHAT!?" #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Of course Spike Lee is the bldg and ready for the #Knicks pick. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Vucevic headed to Philly... #Sixers Can't wait to see him on that Kardashian show with Odom. Kidding! #NBADRAFT
• sam_amick - That's phenomenal. Draft order consistent with birth order - Markieff just ahead of Marcus.
• THEWIRK - The #rockets are still a franchise? Marcus #Morris selected. Morris twins/brothers go one after the other. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Jay Bilas reminding us that the #Suns like picking the lesser of the twins (e.g. Lopez brothers) Markieff Morris, welcome to phx. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #suns take #Morris at 13. Where are my suns fans? Is that going to help? Crap. Stuart Scott just said his brother is better. #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Wait. As long as there are "quality" International players on the board, I must persevere! #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Now is one of those times when I wish teams would just "pass" if there's nothing/no one that they really want who's available. #NBADRAFT
• sportspickle - Please don't pan down. Mychal Thompson is probably wearing short-shorts.
• THEWIRK - #jazz take #burks. I think I might stop watching. No idea who these guys are anymore. #NBADRAFT
• ESPN_Colin (Colin Cowherd) - Jimmer to Sacramento. Well, I guess this is the last time any of us see the kid #kingsaretvratingspoison
• THEWIRK - Thompson to the GSW #warriors #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - The #jimmerjam doesn't exactly look like the place to be... Oh well. Welcome to the NBA. #NBADRAFT
• TheBillWalton (The Bill Walton Trip) - While walking up to the podium, Kemba Walker pulled a drop step on David Stern, breaking the commissioners fragile ankles. Simply amazing!
• THEWIRK - #Bobcats are getting to be hotter... #Kemba Walker headed their way! @CharlesOakley34 you have to like that! #NBADRAFT
• TheBillWalton (The Bill Walton Trip)  - Stuart Scott said that Brandon Knight took some college courses in High School. Ironically he didn't take any college courses at Kentucky.
• THEWIRK - Welcome to Motown, Brandon #Knight... #Pistons #NBADRAFT
• thesportsgeeks - The number one Google search tonight will be "Jan Vesely girlfriend".
• THEWIRK - #vesely to the #wizards #NBADRAFT alright... I guess we'll see him in a dunk contest or a kissing booth "soon".
• fauxjohnmadden - Coming to ESPN in 2017: The Decision 2.. Kyrie Irving and Tristan Thompson both get the hell out of Cleveland
• sportspickle - I had Lithuanian League Pass on DirecTV. I think Valanciunas has potential.
• THEWIRK - Valanciunas said his game is close Chris #Bosh... Yikes! It's probably a language issue. #raptors #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Labas, Valanciunas! Welcome to Toronto. Guess I'm moving to Canada... Where's my passport. #raptors #NBADRAFT
• sportspickle - Greatest Canadian basketball players ever: 1) Steve Nash; 2) Tristan Thompson; 3) Bill Wennington; 4) Uh ... Gretzky?
• jadande - "he just needs to learn how to play" um, not what I want to hear about a No. 4 pick
• THEWIRK - Tristan Thompson? Um, ok. Www.google.com here I come... #Cavs #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Enes #Kanter just got picked by the #jazz. Now who will the #Cavs take at 4? Is Okur still with the Jazz? Turkish connection? #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - Anyone see #Rambis in the #Twolves war room? #NBADRAFT
• THEWIRK - #Timberwolves took Derrick Williams. I didn't know he was a guard?!?! #NBADRAFT
• fauxjohnmadden - Kyrie Irving goes #1 overall to the Cleveland Cavaliers. This officially ends Irving's shot at a successful professional career.
• THEWIRK - Does Fran Fraschilla need an assistant? I'm good with International players. #NBADRAFT

I saw a tweet that said that the Cavs Draft Party was a success.  I really don't see how that's possible.  The draft ended up being so boring that I hope there were plenty of food and beverages for the Cleveland faithful.  If not, I'd imagine a stampede to the doors after the Cavs made their picks and the strange picks started.

 

 

THE WIRK

2011 NBA Draft brings hope to Cleveland Cavs fans ~ Tickets still available

One of these days I'm going to go watch the NBA Draft in person.  ****  Interestingly enough, I've actually been introduced to the "hat lady" a year or so ago.  If you've watched the draft in previous years or are in the know, you know who I'm talking about. 

For those of you that are in the area or are interested in attending tonight's draft at the Prudential Center, tickets are still available on Ticketmaster.  Here's the link:  http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/020046A9A1CE6DD0?artistid=1597990&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=7

I just did a quick check and one ticket in section 1, row 17 is going for $40.60 (i.e. not including fees, etc.).

It's no secret that tonight's draft is a weak one.  As an Ohioan who spent most of my young adult life "close to" the Cleveland Cavaliers, I'm excited to see them make their picks.  I'm predicting that the Cleveland Cavaliers take Kyrie Irving and Enes Kanter.  I know Irving has had foot problems, and I know the "agony of the feet" that Cleveland Cavs fans have experienced.  I've seen them, and I know them all too well. 

There are a few stories about tonight's draft (e.g. foot problems, International players, and 7 foot centers from Lithuania)..  Hmm...  For kicks, let's flashback to the 1996 draft and Zydrunas Ilgauskas.  Remember this clip? 



The NBA Draft can bring hope to a city, franchise, and fans and along with a couple of smart selections ~ the Cavs need hope.  ****  Incidentally, 1996 was the year when guard, Allen Iverson,  went #1. 

I will be watching the draft on TV and following it on Twitter.  If you're not on Twitter and following the draft, you're missing out on some extremely comedic tweets!  Don't say that I didn't give you a "head's up".  I usually laugh all night long!


THE WIRK

Photos from Game 6, Mavs v Heat ~ Mavericks win the 2011 NBA Championship

By now we all know how Game 6 between the Dallas Mavericks and the Miami Heat went down.  I don't feel like rehashing it.  I do feel like I should share some of my favorite images from the game.  It's taken me far too long to download these and post them.  Sorry!

Heat player introductions



Dwyane Wade hugs his mom before the game starts



These Cavs/Mavs shirts are actually sold out...

 

Plenty of Mavs fans in the building



2011 NBA Champion trophy presentation



Dirk Nowitzki is MVP.  Bill Russell is about to present the trophy.



Dirk shows the fans his trophy long after the game has ended.



Finally, Cuban speaks...  He's one happy owner!

I almost forgot.  Here's a video for you.  The Miami Heat Dancers are the best dance team I've ever seen ~ and I've been to many arenas.  For those of you that haven't seen them do their thing.  Here you are.  Don't say that I never gave you anything.




THE WIRK

With the 1st pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers select...

I've written about the NBA Draft lottery before, and from what I can tell most of you have read that post today.  Here's the link, in case you have no idea what I'm talking about: http://www.thewirk.com/2010/05/iswas-nba-draft-lottery-rigged-depends.html.

Yes, I do think the NBA Draft lottery is somehow rigged.  I'm not saying it's done every year, but some years look more suspicious than others.  Don't ask me how it's done, especially since they went to the ping pong balls, but something seems awfully interesting about the Cleveland Cavaliers getting the 1st and 4th picks this year. 

It's a shame that the player talent pool is shallow this year.  As a Cavs fan and a Duke fan, I'm interested to see how Kyrie Irving does in Cleveland.  After the debacle and let down associated with last year's season, I'm looking forward to rebuilding the Cavaliers under Byron Scott.

At least Cavs fans will have something to be excited about.

Incidentally, I received an email this morning from a former customer of mine in Minneapolis.  His email read, "You got our draft pick.  Please treat it kindly."  Funny.  For the record, I think the Timberwolves are just fine with Kevin Love and Michael Beasley...

It may be a small victory, but I'll take it.  Go Cavs!  I can hear David Stern now, "With the 1st pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, the Cleveland Cavaliers select..."

Oh, and you have plenty of time to sign up for a Twitter account so you can follow the NBA Draft when the actual picks are made.  Trust me.  If you're a basketball fan, you'll want to follow the commentary.  It's pure comedy.

Update:  I just heard David Kahn's comments.  He's not alone in his thoughts.  We've all seen the 1985 footage.  I remember thinking the same thing for the 2003 lottery, when I saw Gordon Gund's positioning near the podium.  I didn't watch last night's draft lottery, but I'm just saying the outcome looks "interesting" after the previous, dreadful Cavs' season.


THE WIRK

Washington Wizards v Cleveland Cavaliers at 6PM ET

The Washington Wizards take on the Cleveland Cavaliers at 6PM ET.  The Wizards look to win their 1st road game when the venture into Quicken Loans Arena.  Currently, the Wizards are 0-25 on the road.  That's not a typo.  The Wizards are winless when they leave the Verizon Center.

The Cleveland Cavaliers haven't fared much better this season.  It's no secret that things have taken a 180-degree turn since LeBron James decided to take his talents to South Beach.  The Cavaliers were on a downward spiral and lost a string of 26 games.  26 games.  No, that's not a typo.  The Cavs lost an abysmal 26 games, and were the joke of everyone who had an interest in the NBA and a voice.  Finally the Cavs tasted victory this week, when they defeated Blake Griffin's Los Angeles Clippers (aka the "Blakers).  The Cavs hadn't won since 12/18.

The Onion Sports Network even did a piece on about the team.  The premise of the humorous piece was to scare kids straight by making them visit a Cleveland Cavaliers practice.  The link to the Onion Sports Network piece is here for your enjoyment: http://www.onionsportsnetwork.com/articles/kids-in-scaredstraight-program-visit-horrifying-cl,19156/.

I remember when the Cavs v Wizards match-ups used to mean something.  It seems like ages ago that LeBron James' Cavs were battling Gilbert Arenas and Caron Butler's Wizards for a playoff spot in the East.  It was less than 5 years ago that these games meant something, but my how the times change.

The opening tip and arena will NOT look like this tonight...

The Cavs are going into tonight's game with a record of 9-45. The Wizards sport a record of 14-38.  For tonight's match-up, according to Covers.com, the Cleveland Cavaliers are a 1.5 point favorite.  If I were in Vegas, I wouldn't even think about touching this game.  I believe both squads have to be looking at this game as winnable.  The Cavs won the first game in Washington DC on 11/8.  Tonight's match-up will be interesting for all the wrong reasons, but since I'm in the TV market for the Washington Wizards, I may watch this game.  Antawn Jamison was the hero in the Cavs game against the Clippers, and he's facing his former team (i.e. the Wizards) tonight.  I expect him to play big.  The key word there is "expect".

As an Ohio girl, I'd root for the home team.  Go Cavs!

THE WIRK

Lakers crush the Cavs, and LeBron tweets about karma

For those of you not on Twitter, I have no idea what it's going to take for you to get with the times if you're a sports fan.

Check the latest Tweet from Lebron James (aka KingJames on Twitter): "Crazy. Karma is a b****.. Gets you every time. Its not good to wish bad on anybody. God sees everything!"

Yeah, the Cleveland Cavaliers just got blown out by the Los Angeles Lakers.  The Cavs were without Anderson Varejao, and the fact that that makes such a difference is sad in itself.  The final score of the game was 112-57.

Ouch.

I think that the Cavs should offer Ted Williams (i.e. the man with the voice) more than an announcing job.  Perhaps they should let the man try out for the team.  It couldn't get much worse...  Could it?!?!

Ugh.  I'm not a fan of contraction for the NBA, but I do think based on some of the box scores I've been seeing that the NBPA and NBA should explore the idea of a mercy rule.  Some of these teams are just horrendous...

I feel bad for Byron Scott.


THE WIRK

Miami Heat came back to stun and to defeat the Washington Wizards, 95-94

Last night was busy. About 200 of my friends have a private party every year and that was last night.  In addition, the Miami Heat were in town to take on the Washington Wizards.  Earlier in the day, the Wizards and the Orlando Magic executed a trade that sent Gilbert Arenas to the Magic (i.e. in exchange for Rashard Lewis).  There was also talk before the trade was "announced" that President Obama would be at the game.  Needless to say, and maybe it was coincidental, after the trade was announced word spread that the President bailed and skipped the game.  ****  I think I read that he had a scheduling conflict.

I arrived at the Verizon Center late, because I had to get ready and bring a dress with me for the party I'd be heading to after the game.  By the time I got to the arena, I missed the player introductions and the opening tip.  ****  I hate when I miss the opening tip of a game.  I checked the score board and the Wizards were winning.  Specifically, I remember Nick Young was ballin'.  It's definitely Nick's turn to shine, now that Gilbert Arenas is gone.

2 rows in front of me was the Miami Heat bench.  Yep.  2 rows.  If you don't like it, TOUGH.  I get what I want.  I till can't get used to seeing Zydrunas in a Heat uniform, but it is what it is.

As I watched the game unfold, I couldn't believe what I was watching.  The Wizards had the lead, and the Heat looked tired (i.e. they were in New York the night before).

I noticed Coach Spoelstra in front of me.  He's so cute!  He's had my eye since he was on the other end of the Heat bench.  I wish him the best.  Too bad that his team has to win in order for him to be successful though. 

I'm not a fan of the "Unholy Union" created by LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and that other guy.  I do like Wade though.  As an Ohio girl who's spent many years in Northeast Ohio, I just can't get down with and support LeBron after the way he executed his "Decision".

During the game, a guy a few rows behind me yelled, "Hey, Dwyane Wade.  You're so good, you don't even have to PLAY defense."  It was quiet.  Wade heard him and laughed.  The entire section laughed.  It was an AWESOME MOMENT.

As time ticked away in the Coach Spoelstra could've easily conceded the game and let his players rest.  Instead, the Heat fought back.  They hustled.  The often injured Zydrunas Ilgauskas even hit the deck fighting for a rebound.

With about a minute left on the game clock, my friend in section 121 started jawing with Mike Miller.  He told Miller to warm up the buses, because it was time for the Heat to go home.  Mike just smiled.  Who knew Miller would have the last laugh?!?!  ****  Miller must be salivating at the chance to hit the court with the Unholy Union...  I need to see when he's returning from his injury.

As time elapsed the Heat edged back into the game and during the time outs, Miller was laughing and smiling.  I asked my other friend near the section, how he thought the game would end.  He gave me a "thumbs down" signal.  Everyone knew the inevitable was going to happen.  The stress was palpable.  The Washington Wizards couldn't close the Miami Heat out, and they were going to pay for that mistake.

One of the Heat bench players looked at my section and said, "It's over now."  He was right.  The Heat defeated the Wizards and won the game with a final score of 95-94. 

For the Wizards, Nick Young had the game of his life with 30 points.  LeBron James led all scorers with 32 points.  For those of you that don't know.  Washington DC isn't generally fond of LeBron because of all the Wizards v Cavs playoffs series, back when the Wizards were competitive. 

LeBron had the last laugh last night.

THE WIRK

With an 8 game losing streak, the Cavs are on life-support ~ Hope they didn't sign a DNR

It's Monday and John Schuhmann has released his NBA power rankings on NBA.com.  I went straight to the bottom of the list and verified my suspicions, that the Cleveland Cavaliers were at the bottom of the list (i.e. #30). 

On Friday, I received a phone call and it showed up "Unknown" on my phone.  I must have been feeling talkative, because I decided to answer the call.  On the other end of the phone was Zach (i.e. a guy from the Cleveland Cavaliers ticket department), and he wanted to thank me for going to Quicken Loans Arena.  And then the fun started...  The poor guy started to ask me questions about the game I saw at the Q.

Wow.  He had opened up a can of worms, and he didn't even know it.  I told him I went to the Heat v Cavs game and that, although I showed up, I'm not sure the team did.  I told him I'd be willing to play hard, take a charge, and make sure LeBron never took an uncontested shot.  I told him I felt bad for Byron Scott and asked for reassurance that the Cavs were able-bodied men (i.e. with 2 arms and 2 legs) who knew the rules of basketball and wanted to play the game.

The poor guy didn't know what hit him.

He thanked me for my candor, offered to talk to the front office about offering me a 10-day contract, and asked when I'd be back at the Q.

I informed him that I wasn't going back to the arena, until I was sure that the team would play at the level we all know they can play at.  Sure, they're not the power house that they used to be and the hole left now that LeBron James is gone is practically impossible to fill, but LIFE GOES ON.  The franchise didn't fold when LeBron left, so why do I feel like the players did?  I don't expect them to beat star-studded teams, but I expect them to be competitive and BRING IT when they play mediocre/garbage squads.

We all know how the Heat v Cavs game ended.  The Cavs laid down and died in front of 20K+ fans and have yet to decide to get up.  I'm not even counting, but I think Schuhmann wrote that the Cavs have lost 8 straight.  That's embarrassing.  Where's the pride?

Thank goodness the New York Knicks, Dallas Mavericks (i.e. until tonight), and some other teams have been streaking in the win column otherwise more attention might be drawn to the Cavs' downward spiral.

Sadly, the Cavs franchise appears to be on life support right now.  I just hope the Cavs didn't sign a DNR (i.e. do not resuscitate) because the Cavs fans in Ohio deserve better, and we're not even at the All-Star break yet.

****  Oh, and don't even try it.  I'm an Ohio girl, a Byron Scott fan, and I've lived/been to the Q (i.e. Gund Arena) for some of the leanest Cavs' seasons so I know what I'm talking about.  This is BS.


THE WIRK

Heat blowout the Cavs for LeBron's Cleveland Homecoming ~ Emotions ran high

By now, you've all seen the lop-sided score from the Miami Heat v Cleveland Cavaliers game (aka LeBron's Homecoming).  The Cavs lost by 28 points.  While most hoped for a competitive game (i.e. and some even dreamed of the Cavs pulling the upset), the smart fan knew that these expectations were not necessarily reasonable.  I for one, wanted a competitive game.  I don't believe that Cleveland was so undermanned that they couldn't have put up a better fight. 

I am from Ohio, and since I was in Ohio for family, I felt it was "meant to be" for me to drive the 4 hours up to Cleveland for the game.  I arrived at Quicken Loans Arena at 6:30PM just as the gates were opening.  By then the walkway from the parking garage and the entrance by the ticket window were packed with people.  With so many changes from last year, I was excited to see was a Danny Ferry-less (i.e. WOOHOO!!!) Cleveland Cavaliers' organization had to offer.  I couldn't help but notice that there were no pictures or images of LeBron, and that the only recent picture featured was of Zydrunas Ilgauskas.  Yep, they love him in Cleveland. 

When I arrived at the Q, I was about 90 minutes early so it gave me time to look for and talk to my friends in the front office, walk around the concourse, and catch up with folks.  The Q (i.e. formerly Gund Arena) still feels like home.  It's Ohio.  People rarely change and some of those people I've know for over 10 years. 

I saw camera crew after camera crew (i.e. local and national news media) interviewing Cavs fans.  When approached for a comment, I decline.  I have very strong opinions, and these feelings do not need to be aired on TV or radio.  I've been approached more than once (i.e. and I'm sure it's purely coincidental and/or random), and it always freaks me out.  As a rule, I told myself that I would never talk to the media when I'm in Cleveland. 

Regardless as the arena began to fill-up, I went to take my seat.  I saw numerous anti-LeBron t-shirts (e.g. Quitness, The Lyin' King) and they all made me smile.  People are pretty clever when given enough material to work with.

For such a big game, athletes and celebrities always come out.  Some notables in the crowd were: Bernie Kosar, Drew Carey, Josh Cribbs, Wally Szczerbiak, and Dominique Moceanu.

During the pregame shoot around and stretching I couldn't take my eyes off the opposite side of the court.  LeBron was getting booed every time his face was on the scoreboard.  Zydrunas was running up and down the court in a Miami Heat jersey.  The normal pre-game images I have in my head of the Cavs's Strength and Conditioning Coach and Zydrunas' good friend) stretching Zydrunas at half-court were not happening.  It was strange.  Instead, Zydrunas was running on the word "Cavaliers" on the arena floor, and I could feel the irony.

Nothing but the best in terms of security at the Q, I saw Rick (i.e. a familiar face) over by the Heat bench.  If Rick is over there, it's serious.  He's a professional and used to work the tunnels years ago. 

As Cleveland Cavaliers' owner, Dan Gilbert, walked out into view to take his seat, the crowd went nuts.  He received a hero's welcome.  Say whatever you want about the rant in his open letter.  Unless you're from NE Ohio, drank the LeBron kool-aid, believed in all the promise of the franchise, and the hype  ~ you will NEVER understand, because that open letter was not intended for you.  Dan Gilbert was the only person who who could speak for the thousands of people in the region and be heard by the world.  I actually admire him for having the strength (i.e. read "balls) to do it and not enable (i.e. any more).

Here's video of the crowd's reaction to Dan Gilbert heading to his seat.

The pre-game introductions started and LeBron is booed.  That was to be expected.  Next Zydrunas was introduced and the crowd goes wild.  He will always be highly regarded in Cleveland.  They love him there.  I lost count of the # of surgeries, but his struggles have been well-documented.  ****  It's ironic in a way that I had my mom's surgical procedure earlier in the day.  I know I waited nervously for at least 2 of them.  The last time I had been in a waiting room for a surgery was Zydrunas' last, successful foot operation in Baltimore.  For those of you that think Greg Oden is a bust.  I know from experience.  Don't count an athlete out until he/she retires (i.e. for good).

Here's the video of the introductions.    The visuals leave a lot to be desired.  I guess I was shaking.  The audio is priceless.

After the Heat intros Zydrunas left the huddle too early.

and had to double back. If you ask me, it's symbolic.

The Q's lights dimmed.  When the Cavs did their introductions the fire came out of the scoreboard.  The crowd was literally fired up.  People were excited.  I had a sick feeling in my stomach.

The question of the day was whether LeBron was going to do his pre-game ritual of throwing the chalk/talc/powder into the air.  Yes, he did it.  Yes, the girl next to me yelled obscenities at him as the "dust" began to settle.  If 20,000 plus people thought they could've gotten away with it I would've pictured them storming the court because as far as they were concerned, it was "ON".

Do you see the dust/chalk/talc/powder in the air?  LeBron did it.

As Zydrunas took to his spot at the center of the floor to ready himself for the opening tip, I began to feel sick.  It all just seemed so wrong.  I watched as he greeted former teammates.  Fist bumps, guy hugs, etc.  I don't know anyone on the Cavs anymore.  Sure I know the names, but without taking a hard look at the roster I don't think I've ever spoken to any of the remaining players.  The link I have to the team was wearing the opposing team's jersey and the only Cavs people I know in the organization are in the media, broadcasting, front office, or other arena staff.  Finally, for me, the entire team has turned over...  It took 12 years.

The opening tip happened and at that point I realize I need to root for Antawn Jamison, Mo Williams, Boobie Gibson, and Anderson Varejao in order for the Cavs to win.  Wow.  I don't think I can do that, EVER.  I texted my friend Trey, that I couldn't believe that I had to cheer for Varejao.  ****  I still remember Varejao having the ball at the end of one of the home games in Cleveland, when the Cavs were in the NBA finals against the San Antonio Spurs.  20,000+ people yelled, "Give it back!!!" when they could tell that he was actually going to take the last shot.  I have nightmares about that story.

The first quarter was the most competitive and when the Cavs showed the most fight.  If you want numbers check the box score on ESPN.com or NBA.com.  I'm too drained to look at numbers.

Each time LeBron touched the ball, there were boos.  Chants such as "De-lon-te" (i.e. a reference to the Delonte West scandal) and "Akron Hates You" rang out through the arena.  When they showed a close-up of his face as he was shooting free throws among the chants, LeBron was smiling smugly.  I don't believe that it didn't affect him.  Sure it didn't hurt his game.  He scored plenty of points and the Heat won.  However, let's not forget that this is still a guy who when the going gets tough ~ runs to his mom.

I wish the Cavs had played with the same intensity as the crowd.  Towards the start of the 4th quarter which began garbage time since the Heat had a huge lead, you could tell that the crowd had had it.  LeBron was talking to the Cavs bench and an assistant coach even told him to "Shut the f*ck up."  Don't believe me?  Google it.  Before the start of the 2nd half, it looks like Mo Williams to go f*ck himself?  Don't believe me about that either?  Google it.

LeBron waiting to check into the game. Spoelstra coaching.

LeBron wouldn't play the 4th Quarter.  He didn't need to.  ****  WOW.  I just checked the box score.  Did you know that Zydrunas didn't take a single shot against the Cavs.  ZERO field goals attempted in almost 17 minutes of action, with only 2 rebounds.  I have an opinion on this, which I will keep to myself.  However, those numbers send a statement. 

For the record, They flashed a sign on the scoreboard.  The sign read, "We're down 25, but we still have more fans here".  My guess is that the girl's sign was alluding to the fact that at least Cleveland fans care about the game and team more than fans in Miami.  ****  My brother lives in Miami.  He travels a lot and gets asked all the time what people think about the Heat record.  He said he tells them the truth.  No one cares.

People in the stands were throwing beers at an obnoxious guy looking to get beat up by obviously taunting and waving LeBron's Heat jersey.  A man was being escorted out and then decided to turn around and try to fight the people assisting him to exit.  A melee broke out and a few people got on top of him to get subdue and get him out.  I watched him as he fought and hit the floor.  I only caught the later part on video.  Supposedly there was only one arrest at the game.  My guess, is that it was that guy.

Here's the video I shot of the man being subdued.  I missed shooting when he turned around, resisted, fought, and knocked over the trashcan, but I saw it.

The game ended and the city was quiet.  Sure some people were out, but it wasn't a lively scene.  People seemed angry still.  I read an article or a tweet earlier today and the author asked if Cleveland can begin healing now.  My best guess is, "Not yet."  

From the look and sound of it, Cleveland and I are not ready to "make nice" with LeBron yet. 

Before the season started, everyone knew that last night's game was probably one of the most important games of the regular season.  Of course I'm happy that I went, but I'm also thankful that it's over.  If you ask me the Cavs stopped playing after the first quarter.  The Cavs should've played LeBron tougher and more physically.  The Cavs should've made their shots.  The Cavs should've stopped jawing with him from the bench and made their game speak for itself.  Could've, should've, would've ~ but didn't. 

I doubt you'll see me in Cleveland for another Cavs game this year.  Byron Scott has his work cut out for him.  I wish him the best.  :-P

On to the next one.

THE WIRK

LeBron's Cleveland Homecoming tomorrow ~ It feels like NBA Christmas Eve

It's December 1st, but it might as well be NBA Christmas Eve in Ohio with all the anticipation surrounding LeBron's return to Cleveland.  You'd think LeBron was Santa.  Actually, that's a VERY BAD analogy (i.e. more suitable would be those letters flipped around to spell "Satan"), since I don't believe most people are excited about LeBron's return to the Quicken Loans Arena for the "right" reasons.  What are the "right" reasons?  I don't know. 

I do know that people who were originally going to skip the game for safety concerns or to avoid the mess, are now ponying up the dough and texting me that they'll be there and/or wanting to know if I have time to meet up before the game.  ****  If you're going to be at the game and you know me, please text me so we can catch up.

I'm in Ohio.  I came in this morning because my mom is having a surgical procedure tomorrow.  I will be at the hospital bright and early and when she is home recovering (i.e. hopefully knocked out on meds) and under the watchful eye of my brother (i.e. a non-practicing physician) I will be on the road to Cleveland.  If my mother isn't knocked out on drugs, I guarantee that she will be in front of the TV watching the game.  It's all she can talk about, and she's not a LeBron fan. 

She's an NBA fan because of me.  She's familiar with the Cavs because of me.  She's gone to a few Cleveland Cavaliers games with me.  Now that I think about it she's even been to Richfield Coliseum.  Athough she may not be all up to date on the nitty gritty (i.e. she asked me if Gund Arena and the Quicken Loans Arena were two different buildings while we were eating dinner tonight), she's still going to be rooting for the Cavs.  Now that I think about it, my brother lives in Miami and he's flying tonight.  Hmmm, maybe it's a good thing that I'm not going to be at home for the game after all.

****  Actually, I just literally asked my mom who she's rooting for and she stared at me blankly.  What the heck is going on around here?!!?  Give me strength.  Wow.  She just asked me if the Cleveland Cavaliers are any good.  I must remain silent.  I cannot antagonize her before her surgery tomorrow.

Do you think LeBron is going to do the talc/chalk thing before the game tomorrow?  I say, YES.  I think if he had the nerve to do the show "The Decision", why not throw some talc in the air?  I think his bravado won't make him refrain from the pre-game production.

Even if LeBron does the same talcum powder routine,

it'll still be a different site

I've heard LeBron make mention of the visitor locker room.  I can't remember if I've been in there or not, but even if I had I'm sure it's been remodeled through the years.  If you're familiar at all with the tunnels of the Quicken Loans Arena, you know that the visitor locker room is the first one on the left right when you hang a right from where the bus parks.  If I remember correctly, the referees locker room is next and it's on the right if you proceed down the hall.  The home locker room is all the way through the tunnel past the family lounge and the home tunnel.  Unless LeBron really feels like greeting the arena employees, his interaction with the crew will probably be limited since he doesn't have to go that far into the building.  I wonder what sort of reception he'll receive from the always professional security staff.  Regardless, because of the set up, who really cares about the visitor locker room.  Sure it's smaller (i.e. I've seen teams stretching in the halls pre-game), but it has everything the Heat need.

Wait.  Cutie, Coach Erik Spoelstra will be in Cleveland too.  Hellooooo.  I wonder if Zydrunas will do me a favor and give him my number.  Hahaha.  But seriously, enough years have passed.  Can't we all just get along?!!?

I'm looking forward to seeing Byron Scott coach the Cavs.  As a former Lakers fan, I am a Byron Scott fan.

I hope the game is competitive.  I hope the Cavs come out blazing at that everyone plays at the top of their game.  I would love to see the Cavs win.  If the Cavs win, I'm sure the dynamic three-o (i.e. Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James) will allude to the fact that they didn't get much rest after playing the Detroit Pistons.  Wow.  How exciting would it be to see the Detroit Pistons defeat the Miami Heat tonight?  OK.  Maybe now I'm dreaming.

But like I said, it's only December 1st but it feels like Christmas Eve for basketball fans in Northeast Ohio.  Instead of putting up stockings and laying out cookies, I'm sure kids and adults are breaking out the markers, making posters, and/or printing T-shirts in preparation for tomorrow night's game. 

It should be a sight, and with the holiday season approaching now is the time to dream and make a wish or two!  ****  How do I know?  One of my wishes already came true earlier today.  Don't know what I'm talking about?  Don't even worry about it.


THE WIRK

Ilgauskas shows Veteran Class in Full Page Ad

I was born an Ohioan, but I grew up an old school Lakers fan.  However, as I moved towards NE Ohio, I watched more and more Cleveland Cavaliers games and became acclimated to their .400-.500 brand of basketball.  I used to see Mike Fratello in Little Italy.  I used to catch Jim Chones at the Fairlawn T.G.I. Fridays.  I would go to Richfield Coliseum to see Magic Johnson, Dominique Wilkins, and Patrick Ewing.  I'd always be over towards the visiting team tunnel.  I was young, and didn't really appreciate the people and the heart and talent that the Cavs had until 1998.

It was 1996 when I heard the name "Zydrunas Ilgauskas" for the first time.  

In 1996, he was Cleveland's 20th pick.
In 1998, he became my #1 pick. 

I know Zydrunas' love for the Cleveland Cavaliers runs deep.  His love of basketball is immeasurable.  The man would be lost without it in his life.  I can't even imagine how he's going to feel in a Miami Heat jersey...  I do know that he is nothing but professional in his commitment to the game and his career.  The most offensive thing you can do to him is question his heart.

I'm not surprised by the class in his full-page newspaper ad (i.e. seen below from the Cleveland Plain Dealer).  I'm proud.

THE WIRK

Thoughts on LeBron and The Decision

Thoughts on the LeBronathon... 

I'm watcing The Decision while logged into my Facebook and Twitter accounts....  Here are my thoughts.  I'll update them as I go ~ so this post is a "Wirk" in process...  Some are bullets and some are tweets.  The hashtags will help you figure out what's what.

I'm still calling the Cleveland Cavaliers.

• I love Mike Wilbon, Jon Barry, and Stuart Smith - but come on now, the NBA season is over.  Did we really need a panel for this announcement?
• My brother is in Florida and says everyone is calling the #Heat.
• Am I the only one flashing back to elections when everyone tried to call #Florida first?!?! Go #Cavs! #Lebron #NBA #Heat

****  Updated at: 9:28.  I'm no longer a LeBron supporter.  Enough is enough.  Trade Delonte West to the Heat now.  Just saying...

• congrats #heat. good luck with it.
• ugh, poor byron scott...
• #lebron just said the "kids are our future"... seriously?!!? ok, #whitney.
• seems like everyone drank the #heat kool-aid, but then again so did the folks at #jonestown... #lebron #bosh #dwyane #nba
• anyone know how to #unsubscribe from #lebronjames.com?

It's 10:30 PM, and the Cavs just released a statement.  There's no mention of LeBron.  I got the urge to check their website.  99% of the  Lebron pics are gone.

I was in Miami for Game 5 when the Miami Heat defeated the Dallas Mavericks during the NBA Finals. 

Don't kid yourself, LeBron.  The opening chalk routine.  The Lebron-centric pre-game.  I'm guessing all the shenanigans will be gone.  Heaven help me if there's a new handshake.  I like Dwyane Wade's style.  I don't know him at all.  To quote the Pussycat Dolls, "Be careful what you wish for, 'cause you just might get it."

There's definitely not 3 "I's" in TEAM

It's 11PM and the Cleveland police have used their cars to keep people away from the large LeBron Nike Witness banner.

THE WIRK

Cleveland Cavaliers ticket holders - Tix listed already or waiting for LeBron's announcement

Cleveland friends and sportsfans with Cleveland Cavaliers season tickets,  I have a question.  It's a sincere question, since I'm an Ohio girl.  Did you list your Cavs tickets already on eBay or StubHub! etc. or are you waiting to see what happens during LeBron's announcement at 9PM?


THE WIRK

Boston Celtics Ticketmaster Interactive Seat Map ~ Get your tickets now!

I'm not a fan of the Boston Celtics, but I am a fan of the interactive map they use for their Ticketmaster ticket sales! Finally ~ someone has it right! Guess who's all set for games 3 and 4 (thanks, Tom) in Boston :-P 

You can "select" your seats now, without having to pay the Stubhub or scalper mark-up costs/fees. 
http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/805903?brand=celtics

Now, I'm ready to check out a new venue, TD Garden.  Who else is going to be in the arena for these games? 

Go Cavs!!!

****  Oh, and for you real diehards out there, you probably already knew that the Yankees were in town to play the Red Sox on Saturday.  So, see you at Fenway!


THE WIRK

The Bulls take on the Celtics tonight at the United Center - Big game!

As the race for the 8th spot in the East continues, I find myself in Chicago biding my time til this evening's Boston Celtics (50-30) v Chicago Bulls (39-41) game at the United Center at 7PM, Chicago time.  The Bulls defeated the Raptors on Sunday in Toronto.  Ironically, the Raptors are the Bulls' competition, and tonight is the final home game of the season for the Bulls.  Therefore, this game is important for so many reasons.  This game counts!  Teams like the Cavs and the Lakers are resting their stars, but the Bulls will need to dig down deep and earn a victory tonight in order to maintain their position and participate in the post-season.

The current landscape in the East is as follows:

Eastern

1. Cleveland
2. Orlando
3. Atlanta
4. Boston
5. Miami
6. Milwaukee
7. Charlotte
8. Chicago

Toronto is 9th, right now and currently not going to play in the post-season.

This will be my first trip to the United Center, for a basketball game so this game is important to me also.  Don't forget, I have a goal to hit all the stadiums, arenas, etc. for all of the professional baseball, basketball, and football teams.  I'm not ready to commit to attending home games for all of the hockey teams, yet.  My current count is 62.  Therefore, this game counts personally!  However, as a Cavs fan, I'm not sure I can bring myself to buy a Bulls hat.  My brain keeps going back to Jordan's shot over Ehlo in the 1989 Playoffs...  Ouch.  The Shot still hurts.

Cavs fans look away.  Bulls fans here you go.  Narrating this clip, that I found on youtube is Joe Tait.  He's the voice of the Cleveland Cavaliers and amazing!  I'm convinced he could talk me through performing open heart surgery with his play calling and attention to detail.

For you music fans out there, the last time I was at the United Center was for the Tina Turner concert in October 2008.  Incidentally, for that concert, I was one row ahead and to the left of Oprah, Stedman, Gayle King, and Tom Cruise. 

The one and only, Tina Turner

Gayle, Tom's Mom, Tom Cruise, Oprah, Stedman

I doubt I'll see Michael Jordan, Oprah, or Tom Cruise at the United Center tonight, but all of you true Bulls fans should giddy up and head to the game!

THE WIRK