Rescheduled Rihanna concert or full refund? I'll take the refund.

I decided to skip Rihanna's Diamonds World Tour on April 24 in Baltimore.  It was a rescheduled date, since she had laryngitis earlier.  Originally I looked forward to the concert, but as the date approached I had a change of heart.

I'd seen/heard Rihanna perform before.  I heard her when she opened for Kanye West on his Glow in the Dark Tour in 2008.  She also performed (i.e. a year or so ago) during an NBA All-Star weekend, and I thought it was great.

However, last week I just couldn't motivate myself to go and see her again.  Maybe it is/was all the entertainment news about her and Chris Brown.  With their make ups and break ups on display for everyone with internet access and entertainment television, all that on and off and on and off again, turned me off.  When given the opportunity to receive a full refund from Ticketmaster, I pounced.

I'm not sure what it is, but I'm just not a Rihanna fan anymore.  I enjoyed her early material (e.g. "If it's Lovin' That You Want", "Umbrella") but in hindsight I had buyer's remorse and wasn't willing to pay approximately $140 to see and hear her newer material.  Yes, there are are couple of her newer songs I enjoy, but there aren't ten.  There may not even be 5.

Further, with all the Chris Brown nonsense, Rihanna just seems so "emotionally heavy" and drama filled that I didn't think I would've enjoyed the show.  Different strokes for different folks, but personally I think all of that mess sends a bad, mixed message to girls.

I'm sure if you're true Rihanna fan, you enjoyed the concert.  You may have even had the time of your life.  I was happy I was able to stay home, and I can't wait to see the full refund appear on my credit card statement.  I can watch the light-hearted, happy Rihanna anytime I want on youtube.




THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Saturday night was TERRIBLE

It's NBA All-Star weekend and I'm home.  My husband came to town and rather than hustle to Houston, I decided to stay local and watch the festivities at home.  Thank goodness I didn't make the trip!  Last night's events were terrible!

I'm partial to Duke and, to an extent, the Cleveland Cavaliers as well so it was nice to see Kyrie Irving win the 3 point shoot out.  Matt Bonner also participated.  Do you care about Matt Bonner?  Neither do I...

Anyway, I couldn't tell you who participated in the Slam Dunk contest (i.e. without looking it up) and to be honest, I don't care enough to research it for this post.  The dunk contest was boring.  Correction: the dunk contest was BORING.  The competitors missed so many dunks that by the time the ball went in the hoop, I was completely disinterested in the theatrics.  The entire show was amatuerish and a bad movie (i.e. that I was determined to watch in hopes that it would get better).  It never did.  Charles Barkley deserves a hefty paycheck for making All-Star Saturday night "listenable".  Notice I didn't say "watchable"...

I'm a sports fan and a girl, so I chose to do my nails.  I painted my nails China Glaze Skyscraper (i.e. in honor of Kenny "Sky" Walker.  That's the closest I could get to caring about the event.  PATHETIC.

By the way, do you know how much All-Star Saturday night tickets are?  I do.  In 2010, a ticket for the 2010 NBA All-Star Saturday night was $400 face value.  $400 face value...  All I'm saying is that if I had actually paid face value, much less a scalper ticket price for that ridiculous display of non-talent, I'd be furious.

I've never been to the NFL Pro Bowl, but I presume it's just as awful as what I tried to watch last night.

It.was.terrible.


THE WIRK

Deron Williams is acting like a turkey... Let him go to Turkey...

If Deron Williams wants act like a turkey and play in Turkey, does anyone care?  I sure don't. If I was an NBA owner I'd charter a bus to the airport for all the players who wish to go overseas.  I'd call the players' bluffs every day and twice on Sunday. 

Dear player: If you want to play internationally, that's your choice.  Go if you want to go.  Nothing is stopping you.

Personally, and I've written about this before on some forum (i.e. if not in this blog specifically), I think Williams is an idiot.  Unfortunately, he's not alone.  5 million guaranteed in Turkey.  Great.  I happen to think that these people are very short-sided in their thinking.

I don't believe that NBA players with viable NBA careers think international competition is the best competition.  I also don't think that playing overseas is smart from a marketing perspective since I feel it would make people lose interest in their brand.  This isn't the Yao Ming phenomenon.  Yao already had his audience.  International players who grow up in their native land have a built in audience their and then "matriculate" to the NBA.  The same metaphor can be used when amateurs matriculate to the professional level.  No offense to international competition, but FIBA and global basketball is much different compared to the NBA.  

As I've stated before, I predict that the NBA lockout will go til at least 2012.  I think the NBA All-Star festivities in Orlando won't happen.  I also think with a shortened season, that the teams that are already "stable" will sprint to the finish line.  Tough luck to the teams that are rebuilding or hoping that they could "gel" and build "chemistry".  Players will enjoy their summers and extend vacations.  Some players will work out with MLB baseball teams and/or join other summer leagues.

Of course, this is all my opinion, after experiencing the 1998 NBA lockout and having an inside perspective into how it affects players, coaches, agents, media, and fans.

In all honesty, I'm not really a fan of Deron Williams to begin with so I have to ask why anyone is really listening to him?  The guy is on the New Jersey Nets.  Who cares?!!?

Dear, Deron Williams:  Talk is cheap.  Let us know when you have a boarding pass.


THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Jam Session ~ Highlights

Ok, for those of you that are rookies when it comes to NBA All-Star or maybe on a budget, I recommend going to NBA All-Star Jam Session. There are different exhibits from various sponsors and ways to interact with current and former players. Depending on your energy level and patience you can spend hours there so plan accordingly.

If you’re someone interested in autographs there are different players signing at different times in different areas. Numerous opportunities are available for pictures too, if you’re lucky and in the right place at the right time.

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from Jam Session.  I have a picture to scan and a video to upload, but until then ~ here you go!

If given a choice between Chris Bosh and the giraffe, I'm choosing the giraffe.

Popovich recruiting... Any means necessary to make the San Antonio Spurs younger...

When NBA All-Star came to Cleveland, the NBA 50 were announced

With Craig Hodges

I waited for Rajon Rondo to smile...  And waited...  And waited...

I'm a huge Kevin Durant fan.

Dream job!

While at Jam Session, I had the chance to try my hand at play-by-play announcing.  Check out the video!  What a fun experience!

THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Saturday ~ Practice

If you can’t go to the actual NBA All-Star game, definitely go to NBA All-Star practice. Practice was held Saturday morning at the Los Angeles Convention Center.  ****  This was the first time since the NBA All-Star festivities were held in Cleveland, OH that I went to watch practice.  I have been missing out!

The LA Convention Center hosted the NBA Jam Session.  If you’ve never been to NBA Jam Session, check it out. There are numerous opportunities to interact with players, complete various basketball drills, and celebrate the game of basketball etc. More on that in a later post.

Practice is a ticketed event. I suggest you get there early if you want to take pictures since the tickets designate a section only. It’s general admission within the sections.

The guys are pretty loose during practice and you can see the smiles on their faces. NBA All-Star weekend is a fun time for the fans and the athletes. Unlike in football, where it’s a challenge to get the athletes to play in the Pro Bowl, the NBA shows up and enjoys itself during the All-Star break. 

 Don’t believe me? Check out the smiles on the guys’ faces.

One funny moment during practice occurred when Doc Rivers, coach for the Eastern All-Stars, told Carmelo Anthony to stand in the middle of the court since he didn’t know whether he was playing for the West or the East. ****  Obviously this was before Monday’s trade that sent Carmelo Anthony to the New York Knicks and in the middle of the Melo-drama.

At any rate, practice was a good time and the teams performed various shooting drills. Towards the end of the practice Paul Pierce and Ray Allen established a record for 3-pointers by a tandem for the Guinness Book of World Records. Unfortunately for the Celtics duo, Dirk Nowitzki and Kevin Durant promptly broke the record to claim it as their own.

After practice there was media availability. The media had a chance to go onto the court to talk to the players. Picture it. I liken it to the media version of “storming the court”.

THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Nike Party ~ Q-Tip, Kanye West, Kobe Bryant, etc.

Tickets and parking pass

Every year there are one or two parties that are special during the NBA All-Star weekend. I was fortunate enough to be given two tickets to the Nike Party. **** Thank you to Q-Tip and the Insideplaya!!! The Nike party was supposed to be held at Drai’s which from what I hear is an outdoor spot at the W Hollywood. When I arrived to pick-up the tickets, I was happy to see that the party was being set up in the lobby area (i.e. Living Room) of the hotel. The weather had been unpredictable with rain and wind, so an outdoor setting wouldn’t work.

I invited my friend Teri to join me at the party. There are very few occasions when I can take care of friends who take care of me for basketball, and this was one occasion where I could return the favor. **** If I offer you a ticket and you don’t accept it, because you think you can get a better offer ~ recognize that you’re going to the bottom of my list or will possibly unlisted in the future. I don’t deal well with people who think they can get a better offer, when I’m already offering you the BEST.

I knew Q-Tip would be spinning at the Nike party and that Kobe Bryant would be there. I had no idea that Kanye West would be performing. Talk about a surprise!

As we headed to the party, we passed the Music Box where Kenny “The Jet” Smith was holding his annual NBA All-Star party. There was a large group of people standing outside the venue trying to gain entry. As we approached the W Hollywood, Teri and I traded our tickets for wristbands and went to enter the party. There were 2 tents set-up outside. The first tent was more the metal detectors, and Teri and I skipped that line. The second tent was to get in, and there was a large crowd trying to get in. Teri went straight to the front of that line and I followed her. We passed, Suzy , from the TV show Basketball Wives. She too was trying to get in and skip the line. While waiting a few minutes, I saw Ne-Yo and what looked like 15 of his friends go in.

Dirk Nowitzki

As we went into the party, Teri went in one entrance and I went through another. I ended up going upstairs in an elevator and going across the floor and down the stairs to the main floor. This route gave me a very good lay of the land. As I went down the stairs, I saw Q-Tip, Dirk Nowitzki, Russell Westbrook, Ne-Yo, World Wide Wes, Brandy, Deron Williams and Ron Harper. Finally re-uniting with Teri, we went to the bar and I saw Rick Fox, Eliza Dushku, and Scottie Pippen (i.e. and his wife, Larsa, who will star on Real Housewives of Miami).

With Spike Lee

Spike Lee was in the house as well.

After I got my drink, I went over to see Q-Tip to thank him for giving me the tickets. I patiently waited for him to “break”, but the man was WORKING/WIRKING! He was killing it. Finally, I had my chance to say “Thank you” and formally introduce myself. I’ll never forget his big, warm smile. Of course he went back to work, and I went back to the party,

If you’ve never been to a Nike party, you need to go. Make no mistake, Nike knows how to throw a party. There were passed burgers, sushi, etc. in addition to the open bar. Food is hard to come by when you’re always on the go, so it was great to be able to eat a little bit at the party.

Jalen Rose

I’m not sure what time it was, but my friend Teri who was also planned to hit the ESPN party was sent a text that the ESPN party had ended. Too bad for those folks. The Nike party was just kicking into another gear. For the ESPN folks that could get in to the Nike party, it looks like decided to come on over. 

Kobe Bryant

Eventually Kobe Bryant (i.e. and his wife et al) showed up and took the table next to where I was near Q-Tip. Kobe’s Nike film played and Dirk Nowitzki flashed the “big L” (i.e. loser sign towards Kobe, but it was all in good fun). After that, Kanye West took the stage and performed. Kanye’s set was great. However, I must admit that I’m a huge Kanye West fan and I love watching him perform.

Kanye West performing

I saw the party as it was being set up and as the party ended I realized I would also be closing it down. I saw Kevin Durant again this year, and told him “Thunder Up”. He smiled. The last person I saw was Rajon Rondo, so I just reminded him that I saw him in the Bahamas over the summer.

Finally around 4AM, it was time to sleep.

**** Forgive the pictures. I read that no cameras would be allowed, so I left it in my hotel room. Had I known that I wouldn’t have to go through the metal detector, I would’ve brought it in. This is the best that my iPhone could do.

What a FANTASTIC party!

THE WIRK

Some NBA All-Star participants are paid, but I'd argue that pride motivates most

As we approach the NBA All-Star break, many people associated with the NBA will go on vacation.  Some front office staff, coaches, and players etc. will be going on vacation and enjoying three days off of work.  On the flip side, fans, players, and media associated with the NBA and the All-Star festivities will also be flocking to Los Angeles for the NBA festivities.

As NBA players and owners meet to negotiate the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), let's not lose sight of the fact that many of the people that provide the entertainment we enjoy during the All-Star break are actually working. 

I took a look at the section of the current CBA (i.e. which expires after this season) related to the NBA All-Star game and here are some fun points that show you that the All-Star events do matter. 

Relatively speaking, a check for $35,000 may not seem much compared to the multi-million dollar salaries that some athletes make.  However, let's face it...  Even if it's ashtray money, $35K is still $35K.

Here are some of the player payouts in case you're curious:

• For their participation in an All-Star Game, players on the winning team shall each receive $35,000 and players on the losing team shall each receive $15,000.
• For their participation in a Rookie-Sophomore Game, players on the winning team shall each receive $15,000 and players on the losing team shall each receive $5,000.
• For their participation in an All-Star Skills Competition, players shall receive the following amounts:
• Slam Dunk and Three-Point Shootout:
• 1st Place: $35,000, 2nd Place: $22,500 **** There are additional payouts for players who place lower in both of these competitions.

Check out the talent in the front row!

I just wanted to give you some things to think about during this weekend's events.  If you're like me, you might be tired of people saying that some players don't really care and that this weekend doesn't matter.  I'd argue that it does.  Honestly, let's not underestimate the ultimate prize.  No, I'm not talking about money.  I'm talking about PRIDE.

THE WIRK

Baron Davis' Lexus CT200h Challenge to benefit Rising Stars of America

As some of you travel to Los Angeles to take part in the NBA All-Star festivities, parties, and maybe even athletic events, there may be some of you looking for things to do during the day.  Well, I was provided the following information about Baron Davis' event with automaker Lexus.  ****  FYI: I drive a Lexus, and I like it.

Here is the information from the press release, " On Thursday, February 17th at 4 pm, Los Angeles Clippers point guard Baron Davis will host The CT 200h Challenge in Downtown Los Angeles. Davis is teaming up with leading luxury automaker Lexus to raise monies for his foundation, The Rising Stars of America (RSOA). The Challenge will consist of a competitive race in Lexus CT 200h hybrid vehicles driven by Davis and his celebrity friends. The winner will receive either a year lease of the CT 200h or have the opportunity to donate the lease of the vehicle to a charity of his or her choice. Further, Davis is challenging fellow celebrities via his Twitter handle, @Baron_ Davis, to race on a specially constructed obstacle course near the Staples Center."

Here's a video of Baron Davis, calling various celebrities out.  The video may look corny, but it's in the same style as when he used to do his Ibeatyou.com internet challenges.



Being that I'm not on the ground in LA on Thursday, I cannot attend this event.  I have no idea what the course looks like.  If I can get a picture of the course on Thursday (or Wednesday if the course is set up early), I'll update this post with it.

I've pared down the celebrities that are confirmed for the event (i.e. according to the press release) but here are a few that may interest you:

• Terrell Owens
• Jaleel White (“Road to the Altar”) <-- ****  Everyone knows him as Steve Urkel. 
• Jessica Alba 
• Michael Strahan
• Robert Horry

I've also checked out Baron Davis' Twitter feed and it looks like John Salley, Boris Kodjoe, and Willie McGinest are also driving.  Keep an eye on Baron_Davis and/or #CTChallenge on Twitter if you want the "latest" as there's a good amount of talking going on among the racers.

Once again from the press release, the information is below for your convenience.

WHAT: Lexus CT200h Challenge
WHEN: Thursday, February 17, 2011 from 4pm – 8pm
WHERE: 1220 South Figueroa Street; Downtown Los Angeles
WHY: To benefit Davis’ foundation, The Rising Stars of America (RSOA). $1,000 will be awarded to Davis for each celebrity who participates in the competition. RSOA is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 that utilizes athletics, mentorship and positive role modeling to teach kids life skills as well as ethical and social values.

The event is happening tomorrow, rain or shine, and it is free to the public as long as you RSVP ( http://www.ct200hchallenge.com/).   You can RSVP all the way up until the event closes.  ****  I was informed that the guest lists at the door will be refreshed every hour.

Enjoy!


THE WIRK

"It Never Rains in Southern California" ~ Did Tony! Toni! Tone! lie to us?

I checked the forecast and it looks like RAIN for NBA All-Star weekend in LA...

That's great.  First we deal with snow for the Super Bowl XLV festivities and now we get rain for NBA All-Star in Los Angeles. 

Last year for NBA All-Star we had snow and ice in DALLAS.  Yep, Dallas...  So that leads us to the million dollar question: Why does Dallas weather hate professional sports?!?! 

Anyway, back to LA...  I guess Tony! Toni!  Tone! were wrong when they sang that, "It never rains in Southern California".

I caught up with some of my people who are already in LA, and they said they're not going to let the rain, rain on their party/parade.  I'm still hoping for a weather turnaround as soon as I touch down...

Most people will get into LA on Thursday.  I'm not most people, but I'll see you all soon!

Until then, enjoy the tune. 



****  Please keep forwarding me NBA All-Star event information for possible inclusion in the blog. I do review the materials and press releases sent to me, but regret that I cannot include all of the events in the blog for various reasons. 


THE WIRK

Mosley v Pacquiao fight tickets for sale ~ MGM Grand Garden Arena, May 7

Where are my fight fans?  I have tickets for the Shane Mosley v Manny Pacquiao fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena for sale.  If you're interested in them, send me an email to thewirk@gmail.com or comment this post with your contact info.  I'll get back to you.

Section 2, Row R, Seat 13 ~ $2000 for the ticket
Section 2, Row M, Seats 5 and 6 ~ $3000 for the pair
Section 219, Row J, Seats 5 and 6 ~ $800 for the pair

Yes, I'll negotiate on price.  I'll also trade for the "right" Super Bowl XLV or NBA All-Star ticket... 

If you've never seen Manny Pacquiao fight and have been wanting to go to Las Vegas, what are you waiting for?!?!


THE WIRK

LeBron and NBA All-Star Slam Dunk contest ~ You say "torn" but I hear "scared"

It's almost February.  Ok, technically January just started...  Regardless, I like to plan ahead.

February has 2 things of note.  The Super Bowl and the NBA All-Star game and festivities.

As I start to think about February, I saw a headline that LeBron was contemplating entering the NBA Slam Dunk contest, but had concerns about the wear and tear on his body.

Are you serious?!?!  Now, I never counted how many dunks they perform during the event, and I'm not about to look it up ~ but you have to be kidding me.  Wear and tear?!?!  Dunks?!?!  ****  Yes, I'm sure it takes something out of you to dunk.  No, I've never dunked a basketball. 

I'll tell you this.  I'm smart enough to know that the actual NBA All-Star game will take more out of him than the dunk contest.  Further, as a competitor, I believe that if LeBron really thought he could win ~ he'd compete.  Can ESPN.com, please spare us the LeBron is torn on dunk contest article?!!?  In addition in that article, LeBron pointed out the obvious in saying that Blake Griffin would have "home court" advantage (i.e. the All-Star festivities are in Los Angeles this year). 

So, am I supposed to believe that if LeBron's dunk was really better that the judges would cave and give it the title the rookie?!?!

Come on, now...  This isn't my first rodeo.  Looks to me like LeBron's scared to lose... 

To quote, Lil Jon and The East Side Boyz, "Bia, Bia"...  Yeah, I said it.  No idea what I'm talking about?  Here you go.

Lastly,  I haven't looked to see if he's dunking this year or not, but Nate Robinson has won the past two years. **** I took this picture of Nate Robinson dunking, when I was in Dallas for NBA All-Star weekend 2010. You try focusing on him when he's in motion with a point and shoot camera...

THE WIRK

10 Game win streak ~ Dirk and the Dallas Mavericks are growing on me...

I have to admit...  Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks are growing on me...  Dirk's cut his hair, and he is having a great year.  Plus, the team is looking solid.  Has anyone noticed that they've won 10 games in a row?!?!  Can we all stop talking about Miami Heat's unholy triumvirate (i.e. Chris Bosh, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade) and start shining a light on what's going on in Dallas?

I haven't been to the American Airlines Center since NBA All-Star Saturday night earlier this year.  Prior to that, I think I was there in 2005 or 2006 (i.e. when the Mavs were playing the Suns in the Playoffs).  ****  If you want to check out my post about NBA All-Star Saturday night and the Players Party, here's the link.  If you prefer, instead, to copy and paste the link into a new window, here you go: http://www.thewirk.com/2010/02/nba-all-star-saturday-night-and-players.html.

I take a lot of pictures, and I'm a little surprised that the most recent pictures I've taken of Dirk Nowitzki were in Dallas at the 2010 NBA All-Star Game in February.  Wow.  That's disappointing. 

Here's are a couple of the pictures I took from that game.  

The opening tip

Dirk leaving the court

I'm not kidding.  I need to take a look at my calendar and the Mavericks' schedule for some dates that'll work.  I'll be back in Dallas "'soon" to catch the Mavs, up close and personal AGAIN. 

Who knows, maybe I'll even get to stand on the court again.

THE WIRK

Marvin Gaye's Version of the National Anthem ~ 1983 NBA All-Star Game

I was just reminded by my friend, Erin, of Marvin Gaye's version of the National Anthem.  Marvin sang this version during the 1983 NBA All-Star Game.  During the version you can hear the crowd clapping and cheering the song along.  My only wish is that I'd posted this youtube clip on Memorial Day to celebrate all that have sacrificed for us. 

Thank you to those who protected and protect us.
Thank you to Marvin Gaye for singing this version to beautifully.
Thank you to whomever loaded this video, so we may all enjoy it.



May those that have died rest in peace.


THE WIRK

Sunday lunch: Scottie Pippen one time! ~ 2010 NBA All-Star Weekend, Dallas

If you read my earlier post, you know that All-Star Saturday Night was a LONG night.  If you haven't read my post ~ do it!!!  Needless to say, I slept in and got a later start for NBA All-Star Sunday.  Here's a quick post about Scottie Pippen...

My friend and I had lunch in the hotel, and like earlier in the weekend there were still people all over the lobby waiting for athletes to come down so they could collect autographs and take pictures.  As I waited for my friend to return to the table and our food to come out, I saw Scottie Pippen walking towards me.  He was walking with an Asian gentleman, and it looked like they were having a meeting.

I was alone at my table, so I knew I could go over and ask Scottie for a picture without making my friend look foolish.  However, I began to debate whether I even wanted to go over...  See, I've never been a Scottie Pippen fan.  I've never been a Chicago Bulls or even a Michael Jordan fan.  (Apologies to my friends, who played on the NBA Championship Bulls teams and read this blog.)  I respected the team's wins and championships.  I respect the talent of Michael Jordan.  I began to fear all triangles, because of Phil Jackson's genius.  However, I would never call myself a Bulls fan.  Scottie Pippen was a great player, BUT I remember the game where he decided to bench himself (i.e. take himself out of the game) when Phil Jackson drew up a play and Tony Kukoc was slated to take the final shot.  I cannot forget that moment.  I couldn't believe it.  What PROFESSIONAL athlete does that?!?! Well, Scottie did.

One moment doesn't define a player's life ~ although it's challenging at times to look at the composite of one's career (e.g. Jordan over Ehlo for the shot at Richfield, Charles Smith's missed bunny shots, etc.).  In more recent history, Scottie Pippen's name has been yelled by my friend, as we play craps in Atlantic City and Vegas.  "Scottie Pippen one time!" is what he yells, when he wants the shooter to roll a "hard 6" (i.e. both dice show a 3). I've heard that sentence yelled so many times, I can still hear it in my head now. Sooooooo, I knew I had to get up, walk 3 feet, and introduce myself to Scottie...  I figured a picture with Scottie Pippen would be fun, and I just had to tell Scottie the story.  I had to...  For my friend...

I hate interrupting people who are eating.  Lucky for me, Scottie wasn't eating.  However, it was obvious he was having a meeting.  The waitresses had kept interrupting him, and I began to feel bad for him.  But admittedly, I'm a little selfish and I knew my time was limited and I was not going to miss my chance.  A good photographer is patient, but if you want to take a picture with a celebrity/athlete you have to be quick and choose your times carefully.  I piggy-backed off of a teenage couple and jumped in as they were leaving.  It was perfect.

Keep rolling your hard 6's...

In that couple minutes of interaction and after watching Scottie interact with his fans, he may have won me over a little bit as a fan.  He appeared sincerely gracious and appreciative of the attention and adoration.

Thank you, Scottie for being a class act!

THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Saturday Night and the Player's Party ~ 2010 NBA All-Star Weekend, Dallas

Hmmm...  What happened on Saturday...  Well, I can tell you what I didn't do much of on Saturday ~ EAT.  I barely at anything.  I risked starvation and lived to tell.  I am, my own hero.

We ended up at the players' hotel, and once we were able to get through the lobby (i.e. not an easy task without the proper credentials and stamps) that's where I spent most of the afternoon chatting it up with anyone and everyone.

Incidentally, I was the only person "interested" (i.e. I use the term "interested" VERY loosely) in the Dayton v St. Louis men's basketball game that was being shown on one of the walls.  Unfortunately, the UD Flyers gave up a HUGE lead and St. Louis won. 

Running around the hotel from office to office, I eventually came across Chris Kaman and immediately recognized a likeness in appearance to Zydrunas Ilgauskas...  As far as I'm concerned, cutting his hair short is the BEST thing Chris Kaman could've done for himself.  Some people would argue that improving his game was the best thing he could've done for his career.  I disagree.  Am I the ONLY person who remembers what he looked like with his stringy locks flowing and bouncing up and down as he ran the court?  Ewww...  Aesthetics are important to me.  His hairdresser gets my vote for MVP.

I also saw Kevin Durant, and he was carrying a McDonald's bag.  I'm not going to lie, but I almost jumped him for his food.  Seriously...  David Stern would've had to replace KD on the roster, if I hadn't exercised self-control.

My friend and I eventually rolled out and went with one of her girls to an event for Kenyon Martin's foundation.  It was at the modern, furniture store Cantoni, which is located closer to the Galleria.  That reminds me ~ if you see me, ask me to tell you the Galleria rumor I heard...  OK - back to my story.  My friend is friends with Kenyon from the days when she used to work for the Nuggets.  I remember watching Kenyon when he played for the University of Cincinnati.  All I can say is Kenyon Martin is the BEST, since he had food ~ and I FINALLY had a chance to eat.  Thank you, Kenyon, for the hospitality and the grub.  You saved my life!!!

While at the benefit, I noticed a petite lady who looked familiar from TV and movies (e.g. Jerry Maguire, 227 <--  Yes, I wrote 227, etc.).  "She looks like Regina King," I said to Crystal.  "She is Regina King," was her response.  Hmmm...  Ok, that was easy ~ and my eyes are still good enough to pick people out of a crowd.  Regina looks great!

My friend and I make it back to the hotel and barely have time to catch our breath before we hit NBA All-Star Saturday night for the 3-point challenge, Slam Dunk, etc.  I meet Charles Smith (President of the NBA Retired Player's Association and one of the sources of my NY Knick broken heart) and Dale Ellis (I remember him as a Seattle Supersonic).  Charles Smith is tall.  I know tall.  BUT, for some reason Charles looks really tall.  The only thing I can think of is that it's because he's leaner than most of the NBA Players both active and retired.  I shook his hand and told him I was a huge fan.  This was not the time to bring up the bunny shots that he missed years ago...  He replied that my comments were showing my age.  Great reply.  Dale mentioned he lived in Atlanta and we started to chat it up about the city, before I got called to run to the bus to the arena, run towards the bus, and abandon the Dale and the conversation.

We get to the American Airlines Center and who do we see on the concourse?  Ron Harper.  Quick "hello", and we sort of keep it moving.  Dikembe Mutombo walks by.  John Barry and Mike Breen walk by.  Who really needs a ticket?  If you're restless or have a bad ticket, hang on the concourse and you'll see all kinds of people.  Lucky for me, I had a good ticket.

I make it to my seat and survey the crowd.  It looks full, but it's a bit quiet.  Looks like I'm just in time for the 3 point contest.  I survey the seating by the court and notice Bill Russell is there.  Immediately, I'm reminded that he didn't stop when I saw him at Dulles and asked to have my picture taken with him.  I guess he's like that ~ but you still MUST respect his talent and all that he's achieved.

During one of the TV breaks, the Bulls' mascot was dancing to Beyonce's "Single Ladies" song, right in front of Jay-Z.  He wasn't amused, but the crowd was.

Jay-Z isn't amused

Spike Lee and Jamie Foxx

Paul Pierce won the 3 point contest and Nate Robinson won the Slam Dunk contest. Let's just put it out there. I recommend that they cancel the Slam Dunk contest until there's someone/something worth seeing. No offense to Nate ~ seriously, congratulations on the win ~ but many of the competitors dunks were boring. I would've loved to have seen Dominique Wilkins and Spudd Webb hold up a 5 for some of the dunks that were performed. Where was the showmanship and creativity?!?! Just like in schools, the Slam Dunk contest is suffering from "Grade Inflation". When are the judges going to stop giving away A's and B's?!?! Admittedly, I've never dunked ~ but I remember the greatness that I USED to see on TV.

After the Slam Dunk contest we headed back to the hotel to get ready for the NBPA party (i.e. the Players party) which was held at the player's hotel.

On the bus back to the hotel my friend and I were sitting behind Satch Sanders.  Do you know who he is?  I didn't.  She introduced me to him and he was very friendly.  Check out the following link...  The man is ACCOMPLISHED...  Only his teammates, Bill Russell and Sam Jones, have won more than his 8 Championship rings.  The man is a legend!  http://www.nba.com/celtics/history/WhereAreThey_Satch.html

Ticket to NBPA Party

Mary J Blige

I've seen Mary J Blige perform before, but I was excited to see her again. We passed, yet another challenge to get through the lobby and with another handstamp for me we were on our way. I saw Domnique Wilkins, Dale Ellis, Dikembe Mutombo, Chris Webber, etc. Ever see a 7 footer try to hide in a crowd?!?! It's hilarious. Poor Dikembe was trying to dodge every picture taker he could find. Enough was a enough, I guess.

Two things that were notable at the party.
1 - Question: What happens when there are about 10 girls sitting on a pool table and 8 of them get up?!?  Answer:  The corner with the other 2 people left sitting buckles and the foundation cracks.
2 - Question:  What happens when you don't have enough people working coat check and a HUGE party empties out and there is/are no line(s) established?  ANSWER:  A borderline riot.

A borderline riot.  Don't believe me?  Believe THIS.  Sooooooo, there was such a scene at coat check that the Dallas Police Department started yelling at people to back up, the hotel employees had to try to set up velvet ropes to simulate a line, and then some of the police/security began to acually take tickets and retrieve coats.  The coat check people were taking pictures of the crowd, and I'm sure some of them were filming it.  I should check youtube.com....

Once order was restored

OK - That's all I can recall about Saturday...  Saturday ~ the LONGEST day of the NBA All-Star Weekend...

Oh, one last thing ~ check out who I ran into after the players' party...  Too bad he didn't have any McDonald's on him that time....

W/Kevin Durant

THE WIRK

Friday night's ESPN Party at the W ~ 2010 NBA All-Star Weekend, Dallas

It's Monday and I'm still in Dallas.  QUICK recap below of Friday...

Friday night, My friend, Teri and I went to the ESPN party.  It was at the Ghostbar at the W and a good time.  DJ Rashida (i.e. Prince's DJ from his days at 3121 at the Rio in Vegas and resident DJ for America's Best Dance Crew) was spinning, the Nike MVPuppet commercials were playing on the screens, and there were video game consoles positioned throughout the space, so that people could match-up and play one of the NBA games...

It was a great time to mix with old friends and meet new people.  Everyone was happy and enjoying the good time.

• I was able to wish my friend, DA, a Happy belated birthday in person, as opposed to just throwing it up on his facebook wall earlier in the week. 
• It was fun chatting it up with Ron Harper about the old Cleveland haunts (e.g. Spy Bar, the Flats, etc.) and dancing to all the hot tracks with my DC friends who also made the trip to Dallas. 
• I noticed a shorter man having his picture taken next to me and instinctively I leaned out of the picture.  Afterwards, I asked my friend who it was that was next to me, and he told me it was Spike Lee.  Ahhh, man...  First of all, I should've leaned IN and not out!  Secondly, just how short is Spike Lee?!?! 
• Russell Simmons walked by, and I was able to say, "Hello," as he slowly moved past with his people ~ the place was packed and no one was parting the sea of people easily.  For anyone curious, Russell Simmons isn't tall either, but he's taller than Spike Lee. 
• The main character, from "Hangin with Mr. Cooper" was milling about at the party, and that sparked discussion as to whether he was still "relevant".  Needless to say it took me way too long to remember his entire name ~ Mark Curry.  
• Kevin Love, David Lee, and Danilo Gallinari were there. 
• Numerous ESPN personalities were there along with other media folks. 
• Alonzo Mourning walked out and his wife was wearng a hat and looked great ~ they were stylin'! 

At the end of the night, Lebron and his crew made it to the party.  My first clue that Lebron was there was that I saw his mom, Gloria, walk past me.  I've seen Gloria soo many times this weekend, I'm beginning to think she's my family too!  It was after 2AM, and the party was wrapping up ~ but Lebron made his appearance and was playing the video game and re-enacting the 2009 NBA Finals match up between the Orlando Magic v Los Angeles Lakers.  As soon as that game ended, he and his crew left and the party was over.

At events like this, some people expect me to come back with TONS of pics.  The issue is that, that is simply not possible and will never happen.  I normally keep my camera in my purse (i.e. it's much easier to take a picture when you're farther away from a person, as opposed to right next to someone), but on Friday night I was actually ASKED to snap a few pics, since the photographer had left for the night.

Here's one of the 3 pics, that I took, for your enjoyment.

After the party, my crew and I headed back to our hotels.  In the car we began a lively discussion as to how we'd need to line up Spike Lee, Gary Coleman, Emmanuel Lewis, and Wesley Snipes if we wanted to go from tallest to shortest...  Ouch...

That was Friday...  I'm sure I'm forgetting some folks, since I'm intentionally leaving out some others...  :-P

THE WIRK

Welcome to Dallas ~ let's get the NBA All-Star weekend started

I'm in Dallas waiting on my friend to get here so here we go...

Earlier today, I barely made my flight.  Traffic was moving so slowly, and most lanes were blocked due to snow banks.  Thankfully the flight was delayed, and YES, I should've left earlier.  I had checked in online, like a good Silver Preferred Dividend Miles member and then hustled to the airport to print out the boarding pass and check my bag.

Quick question: Are the parents of unaccompanied minors allowed to use the Dividend Preferred/First Class line?!?!  My stance, is NO.  Somebody tell me if I'm wrong.

While waiting to board my flight, I was listening to the gate announcements.  At issue was a flight to New Orleans.  Evidently these passengers have been stuck at the airport for a while.  The gate agent announces 5-6 names and then mutters into the microphone, "We're not going to board these people."  Say whaaaaaaaaaaat?  I can only imagine.  Then the same guy made an announcement asking for volunteers to give up their seats in exchange for $500 vouchers.  When there were no takers, he made another announcement, "One of the people in the boarding area just had a suicide in the family and needs to get to New Orleans."  Seriously!?!?  Isn't that too much information?  Couldn't he have just said, there was a death in someone's family?

While waiting, I charged my iphone and started chatting it up with a guy from New Orleans who was trying to go home.  We started talking about Drew Brees.  For any of you that are Drew Brees fans and/or saw that video of him leading a cheer at a local bar (i.e. I saw the clip yesterday while watching "Rome is Burning") ~ that bar's name is Lucy's.  Have fun tracking him down.

Boarded the plane and then this oddly shaped older man ends up having the seat next to me.  He's shorter and kinda resembles an "egg" since he was roundest in the middle.  The egg goes to sit next to me and then notices his seat is wet.  I look and there appear to be 3-4 drops of water on his seat.  He asks me if handbag is leaking.  Really?!?!  Why would I carry anything in my Dior that would leak.  Then he says he's going to get some napkins.  My inside voice is saying "Whatever, egg...  Do what you want...  I didn't get your seat wet."  I ignored him and didn't say a word to him the entire flight.  I don't like eggs.

We get to Dallas, where the 12 inches of snow has begun to melt.  It's on the ground, but the roads are clear.  I take a cab to the hotel.  Incidentally, I see a building with a large picture of Dirk Nowitzki (duh, he plays for Dallas) and LeBron James.  Noticeably absent was Kobe Bryant.  Just saying.

Where's Kobe? 

$50 later (i.e. for the cab), I'm at the hotel surrounded by a bunch of kids with basketballs to be signed and plenty of people with cameras.  They're all camped out in the lobby.  NBA signs are everywhere and the minimum height in the lobby for adult men, has to be about 6'5".  It's either NBA All-Star weekend or I got lost and ended up at a pituitary gland disorder conference.  What's a pituitary gland, you ask?  All you need to know is that it has to do with growth hormone and it makes you tall.  You have more questions?  Well then, "Google" it... :-P

I try to check in and my name's not the primary name on the reservation.  I expected that.  Problem was, I was also not the secondary name on the reservation.  After a quick call from my friend to the Front Desk Manager, I'm "checked in" and starving.  I drop the bags off in the room and go back downstairs to survey the scene and figure out if I want to eat in a restaurant or have room service.  I cover some ground and then hit the main entrance, where within about 5 mins of checking into the hotel ~ there he is, Danny Ferry.

I immediately turn around, walk the other way and decide room service it is.  I'm not in the mood to run into/talk to/make eye contact/interact with him on ANY level after our interaction in 2008.  I can be nice and ignore him, but I'm not sure the opposite is true.

I relayed the story to my friend earlier today, before she boarded her plane and she just said, "Welcome to NBA All-Star."  HAHA.  It's going to be a long weekend!

Incidentally, did anyone check out the Rookies v Sophomores game and see Craig Sager?  Here's a pic I took of him on TV.  Yes, the TV colors are correct,  that's really Craig Sager's suit.  It hurts my eyes.

Only, Craig Sager would wear a suit like that!  :-P

THE WIRK

Valentine's Day AND NBA All-Star weekend! What could be better?!?!

My favorite day of the year, VALENTINE'S DAY, is approaching... I CAN'T wait to celebrate it in Dallas, surrounded by my first love ~ the NBA :-P

I've dated my share of  guys throughout my years on this planet.  For most of my life, I was someone's girlfriend.  When I was 24 I got engaged to someone who plays in the NBA and 2 years after that, although the relationship ended  ~ I'm still lucky/haunted enough to see him running up and down the court on national TV or in person.  Incidentally I'd laid eyes on him in person, 3 years prior during NBA All-Star weekend in Cleveland, although he doesn't remember and I wasn't sure who he was...  Haha.  That was a fun time of my life, when life was (for the most part) easy...  It was the best of times, it was the worst of times ~ but that's not the point of this post.

I love basketball.  Yes, I enjoy football, baseball, hockey, and tennis.  Who doesn't appreciate the beauty of the completed pass that's run into the end zone for a touchdown or the occasional Pick 6 (i.e. when it doesn't happen against my Colts in the Super Bowl)?!?!  Who doesn't want to sit in the sun and have a hotdog and beers with friends in the summer, while hoping for a homerun at each at bat?!?!  Who doesn't want to see a hockey fight and then watch the game end in a shootout?!?!  Who wouldn't ask to be bumped off of her flight in 2008, when Nadal and Federer were battling for the Wimbledon championship (i.e.  Yes, I did it, and I have no regrets)?!?!  But at the end of the day I love basketball...

Basketball is fast.  For the most part you have 10 guys who are moving all the time.  It's a timed game: 48 minutes of game time, so unlike baseball ~ you make plans afterwards, since unless there's overtime, you know when you're going to be free.  Basketball players don't wear helmets ~ in fact, the closest you'll get to a helmet is if a player is suffering from a broken nose, and even then it's more Phantom of the Opera-ish...  Basketball is indoors and therefore, fans don't have to sit through rain delays, falling snow, or extreme temperatures.  There are 82 regualr season games...  Therefore, every couple of days a true fan can indulge in watching their team on TV or live...  For all these reasons and more, basketball is king.

I like people, and I love people watching.  In particular, I pay special attention to the psychology of sports.  You can see it in an athlete's eyes, walk, shoulders, etc. whether or not he's given up or his heart is still in the game.  Watch the huddles during a time out and you can see which players don't care and who the natural leader is on the team.  A coach is a coach, but each team needs an alpha that holds the other men on his team accountable on the court and in the locker room.

You learn a lot about the make-up of players by how they handle the "fake" fouls called on them, the "incidental" contact made on them by their defenders, their preparation at the free throw line, how they react when they shoot and miss, their decision to pass rather than shoot, and how the celebrate the win/loss.  At the end of the game, you witness the humanity or inhumanity of an athlete.  Whether they can muster enough strength to do a post-game interview, shake their opponents hand, or even permit themselves to be strong enough to cry tears of joy.  I watch athletes very closely and that's why even the most boring games can interest me.

I love people, and one of the most influential people in my life is my dad.  My dad is taller, 6'2" and I've always had an appreciation for tall.  Before my brother developed an appreciation for sports, it would be my dad and I watching the NBA on TNT.  I had a basketball hoop and played with a Dr. J basketball growing up.  I'd buy the Sporting New's NBA Preview magazine every year and study it more than I ever studied any book in my life.  I saved those old issues, and I refuse to throw them away ~ they're like family albums, since they've been with me all these years.  From those issues, I could tell you the names of teams, players, and coaches.  I was never a stats girl, but I could tell you where the player went to school, and if he was a journey-men, I could name the teams where he played previously in his career.  I never collected basketball cards, but I still have a Patrick Ewing basketball card, and I think it came out of an Olympics' themed cereal box.  I know where that card is ~ and I look for it every time I go back to my mom's house and make sure it's still there on my dresser and not thrown out.  I love my sports memorabilia (i.e. almost as much as I love my designer handbags), and my family knows not to touch the stuff (i.e. that I store at their houses) and not to throw it away.  Toss away old clothes as much as you like, but don't touch my sports stuff.

I've often contemplated law school, but at this point in my life, I never found a convincing reason to go.  I'm sure my father would like me to go into corporate law, but to be honest sports agency was appealing.  Remember the show Arliss?  I do.  It was entertaining.  However, after the NBA Lockout, I never really saw the need for an agent once the salaries were more or less predetermined by the CBA (e.g. collective bargaining agreement).  Further, once I actually met some sports agents, I decided that that path wasn't for me.

Valentine's Day connotes love to me, and love is born out of trust and consistency. Basketball has been as consistent a force in my life as my family.  Basketball games are where I would bond with my brother on my visits to Duke, with my father on Friday nights when I was in my teens (i.e. because he was strict and always tried to keep me at home), and where I would take my friends back when you couldn't GIVE AWAY Cavs tickets in the pre-Lebron era at the old Gund Arena.  I looked forward to seeing my basketball family of players, wives and girlfriends, ushers, and security, 41 times a year in Cleveland for 4 years.  Unsurprisingly players and coaches leave and find new gigs on different teams, and therefore my network expanded to numerous cities.  All-Star weekend is one time of year when we can all take a break and get together in one location, reminisce, make new friends, and celebrate our love of the game together.

Last Valentine's Day I got a ring and the stone fell out 6 months later.  YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING ME!!!  Talk about a "sign".  Forget about going to Jared's...  For anyone looking to get me a present this year, below is my suggestion.  Talk about an upgrade from the ball, I played with when growing up...

 
















THE WIRK