Team USA Men's and Women's Basketball Teams come to DC this weekend

In case you're like me and not right on top of the USA Men's Basketball schedule, I'd like to let you know that the USA Men's (i.e. and Women's) Basketball teams are coming to the Verizon Center in Washington, DC.  Both teams will be playing Brazil's Olympic squads. 

Do you know who Oscar Schmidt is?  If you are a true international basketball fan, you do.  Regardless, educate yourself here:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscar_Schmidt.

I digress...  Let's get back to Team USA...

If you want a pair of front row tickets (i.e. according to Ticketmaster's website) that are in section 112 (i.e. which traditionally look at the visiting team's bench for NBA games) there are a pair for $827.65 EACH.  That's right - for you and your wife/buddy/customer/client/child/boss, etc. you'll spend close to $1,700.  Don't worry, Moneybags, a portion of you ticket price will go to USO charities.  So if you're fortunate enough to have the ticket money, a huge fan of Team USA, and can't make it to London for the festivities - get yourself to the "Phone booth" on Monday at 5:30PM for the doubleheader. 

Here's a link so you can purchase your tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1500488CE14C7042?artistid=873991&majorcatid=10004&minorcatid=7

If you're feeling charitable, I'm only interested in a single ticket and it's ONLY $520.90.  If you want to donate to my ticket account, feel free to Paypal me at sjwirk@gmail.com.

For all of you that have $59, you can pick up seats to the game if you use the discount code: wizards and following the link: https://oss.ticketmaster.com/html/go.htmI?l=EN&t=wizards&o=505&g=2197

****  I guess I've been catching too many clips of Team USA in Las Vegas, that I presumed that they'd head straight to London when they were finished training in Las Vegas.  As it turns out their stint, out West, wraps up on July 12. 

In addition, I was talking to my friend, Teri, earlier and The Nike World Basketball Festival 2012 will take place at the DC Armory July 14-15.  This was also news to me.  You can expect to find me at the DC Armory this weekend to get over my basketball drought, since the NBA Finals, and to relive some 1992 Dream Team Memories.  From what I understand there will be some select appearances by members of the Dream Team at certain events.

So, for all of you "hoop heads" in the DC/VA/MD area, it looks like you have something to do!  Go out and support Team USA Men's and Women's Basketball.

Nominated for the 2012 U.S. Olympic Men's Team were: Carmelo Anthony (New York Knicks); Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers); Tyson Chandler (New York Knicks); Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder); Blake Griffin (Los Angeles Clippers); James Harden (Oklahoma City Thunder); Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76ers); Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves); Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers); Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder); and Deron Williams (Brooklyn Nets).  Oh and there's another guy...  Hmmm.  What's his name?  You know - that guy who left Cleveland to win a Championship with the Miami Heat.  Yes, LeBron James. 

The men are coached by Duke University's, Coach K.

Admitedly, I'm not as familiar with the Women's team, but here are the names I recognize from the USA National Team:  Sue Bird (Seattle Storm), Swin Cash (Chicago Sky), Tina Charles (Connecticut Sun), Asjha Jones (Connecticut Sun), Maya Moore (Minnesota Lynx), Candace Parker (Los Angeles Sparks), and Diana Taurasi (Phoenix Mercury).  ****  No offense intended to the other women on the squad who's names I didn't include.  I think I only recognize these names from their NCAA Women's Tournament game performances.

The women are coached by UConn's own, Geno Auriemma.

Enjoy.


THE WIRK

Yankees defeat the Nats in the 1st game of a 3 game series

I know this blog has been quiet lately, because I've been in and out of the country.  Now that I'm "back", lately I've been focusing more on baseball than basketball since I can't stand the thought of the LeBron James and the Miami Heat winning the 2012 NBA Championship...  Come on Oklahoma City Thunder!!!

OK, enough of that.  Back to the point of this post.

Did you know that the New York Yankees hadn't played the Washington Nationals in DC since June 2006?!?!  Those games were played at RFK Stadium.  No wonder people were buzzing...

I have a lot of friends in the DC area who are Yankees' fans and this series was all they could talk about.  When I was playing on the Nationals' ticketing website, I spotted a pair of good seats behind home plate slightly towards the 3rd base line...  Who doesn't want to be closer to A-Rod?!!?  Let's be real.  Alex Rodriguez is much better looking than Derek Jeter.  Needless to say, I grabbed the seats as fast as I could and called my Jetah-loving friend, Teri, to let her know we were golden!

I went to the game, thinking that the Nats would play better than they did.  I was also excited to finally see Bryce Harper play.  Unfortunately, I can't remember him doing anything memorable at the game...

The AL East leading New York Yankees came to DC and beat the NL East Washington Nationals by a score of 7-2 on Friday night, and I was hooked.  After the game I went straight to the ticket window and picked up a ticket in the PNC Diamond Club for Saturday's afternoon game.  ****  If you haven't been to the Diamond Club yet, I think you should go.  It's a great place to watch a game and reasonably priced if you go there hungry and thirsty! 

Hope you enjoy the pictures!

The Miami Heat are the anti-Charlie Sheen ~ They're not winning

The Chicago Bulls won a close one in the last few seconds of the game.  Final score 87-86.  Derrick Rose had 27 points and Luol Deng had 18 points.  ****  This picture is of Derrick from Christmas Day, when they Bulls played the New York Knicks.

Someone needs to tell the Miami Heat that there are 4 quarters in a game.  Actually, don't.  I like watching them lose.  I'm down with Pat Riley, Erik Spoelstra, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, and Dwyane Wade.  I'd toss LeBron James and Chris Bosh in two seconds.

Regardless, I can already hear the "We need to take a long hard look in the mirror," talk and I've already silenced their voices and excuses in my head.  Seems like just yesterday that those fools were counting all the championships that they were going to win on their fingers.  Fools.

Here's the clip of LeBron counting all the championships the Heat are going to win, now that the unholy union has been formed in South Beach.



The Bulls and the Heat met most recently on February 24, and the Bulls won that game also.  I'll share my favorite clip from that game with you.  It's Carlos Boozer and Chris Bosh.  Bosh falls and tries to sell a hard foul to the refs.  It's pathetic.



The Miami Heat are the anti-Charlie Sheen.  They're not winning.

Icing on the cake?  According to Brian Windhorst (Twitter: WindhorstESPN), "Spoelstra said some Heat players are crying in the locker room at the moment."

Seriously though.  There's no crying in professional basketball.  These guys need to man up.  At least they didn't blame the refs for the loss like Gabrielle Union (i.e. Wade's girlfriend, Twitter: itsgabrielleu), "Congrats REF u just won the game...how does that feel???!! Great game...too bad the ref bet on the bulls."




THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Game ~ Lenny Kravitz, Rihanna, Kanye, and Kobe as MVP

Sunday was the day for the NBA All-Star game and as I made my way to the Staples Center, I had 2 things in mind.  Take a picture of the TNT guys doing their thing and take a picture of the newly unveiled Jerry West statue. 

The West won the 2011 NBA All-Star game, even though LeBron James did his best to make up the difference and put the East in the lead.  Kobe Bryant played his heart out in front of the Lakers crowd to win MVP.

If you want to see players up close and can't afford a lower level ticket, here's a tip ~ get an upper level ticket and hang out on the main concourse.  There are plenty of players (current and retired) running around the concourse and taking pictures.  I had a lower level ticket, but when I went to the concourse to the concession stand, I saw "Big Baby" Davis, Gary Payton, etc. 

If you've never been to an NBA All-Star game and you're a music fan, you need to know that music is a large part of the weekend's festivities.  Josh Groban sang the national anthem.  Lenny Kravitz rocked out for the player intoductions.  Rihanna performed at half time with Drake and Kanye West.  Drake and Kanye were surprise guests.  People who had a ticket to the game, were treated to a mini-concert with these artists.  It was a special treat!

Enough about music, back to the game...

As for the game, the game was a good one.  Like I said, for most of the game, the West had a 15 point lead.  However, down the stretch the East (i.e. led by LeBron James) started to mount a comeback.  The final score was West 148, East 143.  For the East, both LeBron James and Amare Stoudemire dropped 29 points.  For the West, Kobe Bryant had 37 points and 14 boards.  Also for the winning team, Kevin Durant came up big with 34 points. 

Great game, great music, and great time!  Bring on Orlando...


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

My thoughts on contraction and the NBA

My thoughts on contraction and the NBA.

Sure there are teams that historically have underperformed in the NBA and other teams that may not be able to survive financially in their city.  We all remember Danny Ferry leaving for Italy rather than play for the Los Angeles Clippers, but even the Clippers have become exciting again (i.e. with Blake Griffin).  Further, this month, the NBA has announced that it plans to purchase the New Orleans Hornets (i.e. where star Chris Paul excites the crowd).  There are other examples out there...  However, I don't believe contraction to be the answer.

I think the notion of having 3-4 stars on a team is fine, but I think that some players (i.e. who have been vocal recently)  need to understand that this is generally done by having 3-4 players (1) STEP UP to achieve stardom by improving their games and/or (2) play in a system that accentuates their strengths. I think making a "deal with the Devil" (i.e. it's an expression, so calm down ~ I love Riley and Spoelstra) is not and should not be the norm.  Even role players in the right niche, will work hard, develop their game, and become stars. It takes time...  There are no quick-fixes and shortcuts.

Would Scottie Pippen be "Scottie Pippen" if he had never played for the Chicago Bulls and was without Michael Jordan during his career?  The world will never know.  However, I believe that talented, hard working players in the NBA will rise to the top and make their teammates better... 

I think there's a lot of men in the NBA (i.e. regardless of what team they play for) that individually I couldn't pick out of a line up.  This "anonymity" can be for a variety of reasons...  Maybe the player is young or is a long-time journey men that bounce(s) from team to team.  Another reason could be that I'm getting older and the guys are younger now.  ****  Nah, that can't be it.  It's not like I'm losing my memory.  I'd argue that these men have given me no reason to remember their game.

It's no secret that all NBA drafts are not created equally.  I'd love for a team to walk up to the podium and "Pass" on a draft when the talent is weak if they really can't get a player to help them or make the right deal.  I've never been in a war room, but am I really to believe that some of these choices were sincerely thought to bring success to a team?  I've seen players get drafted and immediately I think of coaches who have a relationships with agents...  ****  Having the 1st pick in the draft doesn't guarantee a powerhouse for the franchise.  Further, of course, you can find a needle in a haystack and find treasures deep in the draft.  However, the development of that talent usually takes time.

If you want an argument for or against contraction from a financial perspective, this isn't the place for you.  I'm not going to run any numbers here.  I just needed to sound off on the topic, because I'm tired of reading other peoples' ideas about it.

LeBron James talking about being in favor of contraction, would be like Warren Buffett telling a homeless person that he saves a lot of his money.  Thanks, but just be quiet.

****  One last thing, if you found this post/blog thought-provoking and/or enjoyable, please vote for me (i.e. for Blog of the Year) on the right-hand side towards the top.  It only takes a second.  Thanks!


THE WIRK

Christmas is not an NBA Holiday ~ Deal with it

Phil Jackson and LeBron James have come out and said that don't like playing games on Christmas Day.  I can understand that, to an extent.  I remember what it was like to hold Thanksgiving and Christmas "early" and/or have to cut it short, when my fiancee would have to leave to catch the plane for a road trip.  I remember hosting other athletes and cooking up a holiday feast.  Teammate(s) would come over and were treated like family, since a few of them didn't have families of their own to celebrate with. 

Travel is part of the NBA and yes, family is first ~ but unless you're new to the league you should be "used to" having to make certain sacrifices.  If the athlete is being "featured" on Christmas, it's a tribute to the success of the team.  If the athlete has the day "off", it probably means that the NBA doesn't value the team enough to schedule his team for a holiday, prime-time TV slot.

Those are the breaks.  If you don't like it, come down with back spasms and don't travel.  It's not rocket science.  I realize that's a little harsh, but at the end of the day, time is what's precious and not the actual day.  I was raised with the philosophy that "every day is Christmas".  If you wanted something, you could have it.  Ironically, I've never really been the type of person to ask for anything. 

I think people need to look past working or having to cut short Christmas Day and make the most of the time that they do have together with their families.


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

Quick Poll: Who should coach the Miami Heat ~ Riley v Spoelstra?

There has been a lot of chatter about who should be head coach of the Miami Heat. 

I have been a fan of Erik Spoelstra ever since he was on the other end of the bench (i.e. from Pat Riley).  Believe it.  Why?  Because I think he's cute.  ****  In the interest of full-disclosure, I'm half Filipina.  Spoelstra started his career with the Miami Heat as video coordinator and is currently the head coach (i.e. after more or less being hand picked by Riley). 

I never really watched the Miami Heat, until Riley joined them in the mid-90s.  I remember watching the Heat go against the New York Knicks in the late-90s and the physicality of those games.  ****  I'll admit that I probably should have been studying, since I was in medical/graduate school at the time.  Sorry, dad.  Haha.  There's no question that Pat Riley has had amazing success as a head coach.  Riley, the current Miami Heat team president, has won 5 NBA Championships as a head coach (i.e. 6 if you count when he was an assistant). 

Riley made me a Laker fan when I was younger, because I couldn't take my eyes off of Magic Johnson, James Worthy, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Byron Scott, and A.C. Green.  ****  Til this day, I have a poster of the Los Angeles Lakers in my mom's house and a framed Magic Johnson picture at my dad's house.  I dare both of them to get rid of either item.  When most girls dreamt about going to the beach or Disney World, I dreamt about going to The Forum.  Incidentally, I never made it to The Forum, but I have been to the Staples Center twice.

It wasn't The Forum, but I was still happy

Back to Miami...

With the trio of Chris Bosh (i.e. I can't believe I just typed his name), Dwyane Wade, and LeBron James performing below public expectations (i.e. notice I said "public" and not "my"), the chatter about a change in leadership has increased in volume...

What do you think?  I remember watching a debate about players v coaches.  A former NBA player argued that players are judged by whether or not they have a NBA Championship ring.  Coaches, he argued, are judged by their win v loss percentage.  In another article a case was made that a coach should be judged by his record v expectations (i.e. games that you should win count less, because you SHOULD HAVE won them anyway).

There's no question that the final score of the Miami Heat v Indiana Pacers, was a game that the public "expected" the Heat to win.  My buddy is in Vegas right now and he texted me that the money line was Indiana +425.  That was a nice pay out for anyone who had the nerve to bet it.  He also texted me that, "Every time the Heat lose, an Angel gets his/her wings."  But I digress...

What do you think?  Do you think Pat Riley could get more out of the Miami Heat (i.e. than Spoelstra) or is it just growing pains as the team develops its own style and rhythm?  Oh, and I have to ask:  Do you think Riley will replace Spoelstra this season?


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

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

LeBron James Fathead stickers on sale: $17.41

If you're listening to WKNR 850 in Cleveland, you may not know this but you can buy a LeBron James Fathead for $17.41.  Why $17.41?  Well, because that's the year Benedict Arnold was born.

You have 3 to choose from.  Knock yourself out.

http://www.fathead.com/nba/cleveland-cavaliers/lebron-james/


THE WIRK

Dan Gilbert's (Cleveland Cavs majority owner) Open Letter "says" what needed to be "said"

I can't not include this in my blog.  I commend Dan Gilbert for having the guts to say something (i.e. even though it's too late).  Someone needs to say something.  To have LeBron not contact the Cleveland Cavaliers and not inform them of his decision after 7 years and all that the organization has done for him, his friends, and family is utterly DESPICABLE.

I heard LeBron mention something about the Cavaliers getting rid of him.  Give me a break.  The city cried when he was drafted and welcomed him with open arms and were willing to fight for him with both arms also.  All it takes is a look at oft-injured, veteran center who NEVER gave up and always believed to see that loyalty is rewarded.  Rome wasn't built in a day, and I doubt sincerely that the Heat earn the championships they expect to win with the Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and LeBron James trio...  If anything LeBron has placed himself among a different peer group in his attempt to chase titles.  He's now a "Pippen" (i.e. SORRY, SCOTTIE), but not even ~ because Pippen actually WON.  ****  Scottie Pippen is actually a trending topic on Twitter right now, so obviously great minds think alike!

Below is the full-text of Dan Gilbert's open letter and the link for you to click on if you prefer:  http://www.nba.com/cavaliers/news/gilbert_letter_100708.html


THE WIRK
----------------------------

Cavaliers: Open Letter to Fans from Cavaliers Majority Owner Dan Gilbert


Dear Cleveland, All Of Northeast Ohio and Cleveland Cavaliers Supporters Wherever You May Be Tonight;

As you now know, our former hero, who grew up in the very region that he deserted this evening, is no longer a Cleveland Cavalier.

This was announced with a several day, narcissistic, self-promotional build-up culminating with a national TV special of his "decision" unlike anything ever "witnessed" in the history of sports and probably the history of entertainment.

Clearly, this is bitterly disappointing to all of us.

The good news is that the ownership team and the rest of the hard-working, loyal, and driven staff over here at your hometown Cavaliers have not betrayed you nor NEVER will betray you.

There is so much more to tell you about the events of the recent past and our more than exciting future. Over the next several days and weeks, we will be communicating much of that to you.

You simply don't deserve this kind of cowardly betrayal.

You have given so much and deserve so much more.

In the meantime, I want to make one statement to you tonight:

"I PERSONALLY GUARANTEE THAT THE CLEVELAND CAVALIERS WILL WIN AN NBA CHAMPIONSHIP BEFORE THE SELF-TITLED FORMER ‘KING’ WINS ONE"

You can take it to the bank.

If you thought we were motivated before tonight to bring the hardware to Cleveland, I can tell you that this shameful display of selfishness and betrayal by one of our very own has shifted our "motivation" to previously unknown and previously never experienced levels.

Some people think they should go to heaven but NOT have to die to get there.

Sorry, but that's simply not how it works.

This shocking act of disloyalty from our home grown "chosen one" sends the exact opposite lesson of what we would want our children to learn. And "who" we would want them to grow-up to become.

But the good news is that this heartless and callous action can only serve as the antidote to the so-called "curse" on Cleveland, Ohio.

The self-declared former "King" will be taking the "curse" with him down south. And until he does "right" by Cleveland and Ohio, James (and the town where he plays) will unfortunately own this dreaded spell and bad karma.

Just watch.

Sleep well, Cleveland.

Tomorrow is a new and much brighter day....

I PROMISE you that our energy, focus, capital, knowledge and experience will be directed at one thing and one thing only:

DELIVERING YOU the championship you have long deserved and is long overdue....





Dan Gilbert
Majority Owner
Cleveland Cavaliers