NBA season is here and THE WIRK v THE RICK is ON

I'm going head to head with my buddy Ricky at www.believeinthestreak.com since it's the 1st night of the NBA season.  It's all for "love of the game", but since we're known to spend some time in a Las Vegas sportsbook, we figured a friendly competition could be fun.

We're both starting with 1000 units.  We'll iron out the rules when he calls me, but here's a starting point.

For obvious reasons we seemed to both want to stay away from the Washington Wizards v Cleveland Cavs game.  Why?  Garbage teams are very difficult to bet for or against.  Wagering on basketball is difficult enough without adding that level of unpredictability. 

As you can see, we both like the Miami Heat to cover -6.5 tonight.

Ricky is taking the over +185.5 in the Dallas Mavericks v Los Angeles Lakers game.  I'm comfortable taking the Lakers with the line -9.  I don't like over/unders.  Betting totals is an interesting skill, that I haven't mastered.  Plus, with it being the 1st game of the season, Dirk Nowitzki being day-to-day and Kobe Bryant "questionable", I don't know where the scoring will come from.

Game ON.

THE WIRK

Cavs v Wizards ~ Andray Blatche had a career night, Wizards get the "W"

Yesterday, I was flipped a last minute ticket to the Cleveland Cavaliers v Washington Wizards game at the Verizon Center.  I wasn't overly excited about going to the game, but I thought it'd be a good chance to see an old friend and watch two under-performing squads battle.  I didn't expect much from last night's match-up, especially since John Wall was serving a suspension (i.e. he had scuffled with the Miami Heat's Zydrunas Ilgauskas on Wednesday night).

*****  I'd be lying if the chance to eat Dippin' Dots again didn't factor into the equation also.  I have new found love for those treats.  You'd think they were new, but I've re-discovered my love for the ice cream.  Incidentally, at the Verizon Center, the serving size is smaller than the larger size at the Quicken Loans Arena, but the Verizon Center charges more (i.e. $5).  Beggers can't be choosers, though so I spent the money.  Oh, it's cash only at the Verizon Center so be prepared.

The story of the game was Andray Blatche's performance to lead the Washington Wizards to victory.  That's right, boys and girls, the Wizards won the game.  Blatche had 36 points and 19 rebounds. 16 of Blatche's rebounds were offensive.  JaVale McGee added 25 points, and Jordan Crawford notched a triple-double (i.e. 21 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds).

In the losing effort for the Cavaliers Ramon Sessions led the team by dropping 26 points.  ****  I remember when he "played" for the Minnesota Timberwolves...

Another thing that was interesting was seeing Baron Davis is a Cleveland Cavaliers uniform.  I actually wonder if he's gotten used to seeing himself in the uniform as well.



The Cavs look very different this season



The Wizards, without Wall, take the court



I may not be familiar with the roster of Byron Scott's Cleveland Cavaliers, but since Ohio will always be "home" I do feel connected to them.  It was great to see Max Benton, the trainer, on the bench still.  Veteran, Strength and Conditioning coach, Stan Kellers, was there also, sitting behind the bench.  It must be strange for them to be a part of and remember the Cavs' glory days and now be a part of the organization...

At least things can only get better for the Cavs franchise...  Right?!?!

Wizards won: 115-107.

THE WIRK

John Wall caught Ilgauskas' elbow and he didn't like it ~ Heat v Wizards

I had spent the past couple of days (i.e. with my mom visiting), running all over creation.  Last night mom and I went to the Verizon Center to check out the Miami Heat v Washington Wizards game.  ****  If you follow the blog, you know why this game is interesting and if you don't follow the blog you are a VERY BAD person.  Just kidding.  Kind of.  Sort of.  Not really.

Early in the game, with 8:48 left on the clock in the 1st quarter, Zydrunas had the ball and John Wall wanted it.  Zydrunas is 7'3" and rookie, John Wall, is 6'4".  It doesn't take a genius to know that when Zydrunas holds the ball up, that Wall had better back up and watch his face (i.e unless he wants to eat elbow).  Sure enough, emotions ran high and after catching Zydrunas' elbow, Wall decided to use his right arm to throw a body punch.  Here's a clip of the scuffle:  http://www.nba.com/video/games/wizards/2011/03/30/0021001110_mia_was_play2.nba/

Here are two words that describe John Wall's actions: ROOKIE MISTAKE.



To put the elbow and height in perspective,
and in honor of opening day this was on the
 way to a Cleveland Indians' baseball game.

****  I'm not advocating fighting in the NBA, BUT if I was Zydrunas (i.e. after receiving that weird body punch from John Wall) I would've gone after Wall, like he was Greg Ostertag... John Wall should've swept Zydrunas' leg(s) because tall trees can't land elbows when they're on the ground... THAT's how you fight a seven footer...  You don't try to "BOX".  Wait, speaking of boxing, I don't remember the venue, but there was a guy heckling Zydrunas one day.  He was saying things like, "I'll be Rocky and you'll be Drago."  Too funny...

I am listening to ESPN and the commentary from the lady "talking through the video".  She is heavily biased towards the Miami Heat, and obviously doesn't know her NBA history.  Zydrunas has a temper.  He isn't one to start fights on the court, but he won't back down from one.  I watched the events from section 121 and I've seen many a "tussle/fight" with him.  I know that if he wanted to treat the events like a game of WHACK-A-MOLE, Zydrunas could've pounded John Wall.  The fact that Zydrunas grabbed Wall by both arms and drove him back, shows that Zydrunas exercised restraint.

Elbows in the NBA aren't uncommon.  Zydrunas used to complain about Dikembe Mutombo's elbows, and Mutombo's methods of clearing out his opponents have been well-documented.  Here's a link to a Sports Illustrated (SI) article if you want some light reading from 1999 by Marty Burns:  Don't Bogart That Joint: Opponents are tired of blocking Dikembe Mutombo's elbows with their noses. 

For the record, and it goes without saying, but I will anyway ~ Zydrunas isn't Mutombo.  ****  I do think Zydrunas gave Wall a cheap, left forearm to get Wall to back away.  Further, at the 15 second mark, if you see the red coat at the top of the section, that coat belongs to my mom and I'm sitting next to her.  Yes, if it's interesting ~ chances are I'm there.

As a result of the altercation, for the Miami Heat,  both Juwan Howard and Zydrunas were ejected.  Washington Wizards lost the services of John Wall for the game too, since he was also ejected.

Ultimately, the ejections and the long referee deliberation and review seemed to take the energy out of the building for some time.  Surprisingly the energy picked up and the game wasn't a run away Heat victory.  Jordan Crawford scored 39 points in the losing effort.  Dwyane Wade scored 33 points and some dude named, LeBron, led the Heat with 35 points. 

****  This picture pretty much sums up the past couple of days since I went to New York to see The Lion King with my mom on Tuesday, and we just saw the Miami Heat and LeBron yesterday.

Final score, 123-107.  Wizards lost. 

Update: Wizards rookie, John Wall, has been suspended one game without pay and two Miami Heat players were fined for their actions.  Heat forward Juwan Howard received aa $35,000 fine, and teammate Zydrunas Ilgauskas was fined $25,000.

THE WIRK

Happy St. Pat (Riley) Day!!! NCAA Tournament, Washington DC

Today I went to the NCAA Tournament in Washington DC and I saw one of my all-time favorites at the Verizon Center .  PAT RILEY.  I'm such a huge fan of the man.  I love everything he does (i.e. Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks).  He looks great and his smile is killer.  The man is a WINNER.  Plus, I have a huge crush on Erik Spoelstra (i.e. even before he became head coach), so Riley would be "like" a "father-in-law".  ****  No, I didn't tell Riley, I had a crush on Spoelstra.  To be honest, I forgot ~ plus that just sounds silly! 

Regardless, what a great St. Pat(rick's) Riley Day!!!

Shout out to another one of my favorites, Bob Ferry (i.e. former GM of the Washington Bullets/Wizards and the best person to hang out with when a loved one is having surgery on his foot).  Bob Ferry is the BEST.  Nothing but class from the man, and he's another gentleman who I adore seeing.  Great smile, big hug, and nothing but love!

An actual tournament post will come when I settle in a few days ~ but trust me these 2 men were my highlights!

Recap:
Butler won.
Pittsburgh won.
UConn won.
Cincinnati won.


THE WIRK

Wizards beat the Timberwolves ~ Kevin Love scored his 50th double-double

Saturday night the Wizards had the visiting Minnesota Timberwolves in town at the Verizon Center.  Kevin Love was in town and brought his 49 game double-double streak to town.  It's no secret that I've seen plenty of Timberwolves' games this season.  I'm actually a fan of the young team and enjoy watching Michael Beasley and Kevin Love play, so when I was offered a free ticket to the game you better believe I took it!

Kevin Love didn't disappoint.   He notched his 50th double-double game, even though the Wizards ended up victorious.  The Wizards went into the game losing 7 games in a row.  Both of the squads are young, but Minnesota hasn't learned to pull out close games YET.  ****  This is a skill the Miami Heat are trying to master also, so I'm not really going to slam Kurt Rambis' team that hard for being young.

Another reason I was interested in the game was because I had yet to see John Wall play a real game "live".  I watched Wall play during the NBA All-Star Rookie Challenge, but that didn't count.  Wall finished the game with a double-double (i.e. 18 points and 11 boards), but Andray Blatche was the Wizards' high scorer (i.e. 20 points).  In a losing effort, Michael Beasley dropped 18 points, but Kevin Love contributed 20 points and 21 boards.  WOW.  50 double-double games, in a row...  ****  Moses Malone's record of 51 consecutive double-doubles looks like it's going down!

This game was winnnable for the Timberwolves, but when asked by the guy next to me if I thought the T'wolves would pull it out, I said, "No."  It was what it was, and the Timberwolves just don't have that killer instinct YET...  Tough loss. 

Final score:  Timberwolves 96, Wizards 103.


THE WIRK

NBA All-Star Friday: Picked up Nike tickets, Missed Celebrity game, Caught Rookie Challenge

I flew to Los Angeles on Friday on my first Virgin America flight. **** If you haven’t flown Virgin America, do it. The airline is HOT. Virgin America is like a W Hotel in the sky. The airline is sexy. Wifi, individual TV’s, power outlet to charge electronic devices, and the ability to order food whenever you like through your TV screen.

Upon arrival at LAX I had to hustle to the W Hollywood to pick up tickets to the Nike party. **** The tickets were courtesy of my friend the Insideplaya and Q-Tip. Thank you, guys! As I raced to Hollywood, I realized that since my flight was delayed 2 hours, I was going to miss the NBA All-Star Celebrity game. So much for seeing Magic Johnson and my Bieber-fever… **** At NBA Jam Session, one of the ESPN radio guys described Justin Bieber as the Ricky Rubio of the Celebrity game. Great line! Yes, I missed the game. That’s just the way it goes sometimes.

I needed to pick up the tickets at the hotel, for the party later that night and LA traffic wasn’t cooperating. With 10 minutes to spare, I picked up the tickets. Good thing I checked my ticket envelope! Originally they forgot my +1, but the problem was solved easily once I pointed out the problem and showed my email history. Thank you, Nike!

As I was leaving the hotel, people started to arrive. I’m not a car person, but I do know a Rolls Royce when I see it. Nice!

With tickets in hand I raced back downtown to check-in to my hotel. After checking in, I hopped in a cab to make it to the Rookie Challenge. I wanted to watch the NBA All-Star Rookie v Sophomore game. **** Zydrunas won MVP of the game many years ago. Did you know that the trophy is actually 2 pieces? Pay attention, next time. The player who raises the prize holds onto both the base and the top part.

I made it to the Staples Center for the Rookie v Sophomore game and decided rather than watch the rest of the 1st half, I needed to get in line for food. I WAS STARVING. I hadn’t eaten since 8AM EST and it was probably 7PM PST. With each Rookie Challenge ticket, came a $15 food voucher. I had 2 tickets, and bought $15 of food and $15 of candy. I like candy.  **** I bought Red Vines for the first time. Are they supposed to be less sweet, compared to Twizzlers? I prefer to Twizzlers. Preference for Red Vines must be a West coast thing.

For the Rookie challenge I decided to climb to the top of the Staples Center. I did it in 4-inch heeled boots. This was a HUGE mistake. My feet still haven’t forgiven me, but I wanted to get a picture of the entire court.

Seeing as that the All-Star festivities were held in Los Angeles and Blake Griffin has garnered so much positive attention, the crowd at the Staples Center yelled, "We want Blake," towards the end of the game.  He stood up to tease them, but didn't re-enter down the stretch.

The Rookies won the game, and DeMarcus Cousins led the squad with 33 points. John Wall had 12, points and 22 assists in 29 minutes of action. The Washington Wizards’ own was the MVP of the Rookie v Sophomore game!

THE WIRK

Wizards try for 2 wins in a row on Wednesday against the Magic

The Washington Wizards defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday, 115-100, and captured their 1st victory on the road. Now, the Wizards can reflect on their 1-25 road record as they prepare to battle the Orlando Magic on Wednesday night.

The Orlando Magic were in action on Sunday also, and they defeated the Los Angeles Lakers by a margin of 14 at home. The final score of that game was 89-75. Magic star, Dwight Howard, came up big with 31 points and 13 boards.

Let's go ahead and state the obvious. The Orlando Magic will prove to be a more significant challenge to the Wizards than the Cavs, even though the jury is still out as to whether the mult-team trade between the Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, and Washington Wizards made the Magic a better team.

****  This picture was taken at the last meeting between the Magic and the Wizards in DC.  Ironically, both Rashard Lewis and Gilbert Arenas are exiting this picture on opposite sides.  "Shortly" (aka days) after this game, both players would be traded to the other team. 

Let's face it. Sunday's Wizards v Cavs match-up was one to watch for all the wrong reasons. For the same reason people "rubberneck" at car accidents, people tuned into the Wizards v Cavs game. 

Wednesday's Wizards v Magic match-up will be intriguing if not to see if/how Gilbert Arenas and Rashard Lewis play against their former squads. Rashard Lewis missed his 2nd straight game with a sore knee on Sunday, and I haven't heard if he'll return for Wednesday's game. Gilbert Arenas, the former poster boy, for the Washington Wizards has had his scoring drop 50% since the trade to Orlando. He only averages 8.1 ppg now, but now (i.e. to be fair) he's coming off the bench.

The Wizards v Magic game won't be the most exciting NBA game on the Wednesday night schedule, but it will be compelling for many basketball fans as we draw closer to the NBA All-Star break.

Most likely, "NO ~ the Wizards won't win 2 in a row on the road."

However, stranger things have happened. Don't forget... The NBA is where "amazing happens".


THE WIRK

Washington Wizards v Cleveland Cavaliers at 6PM ET

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THE WIRK

When are the Bobcats going to open their practices to the public?

47-year old, Michael Jordan, practiced with the Charlotte Bobcats yesterday...  OK, I'm intrigued.  I haven't seen Michael Jordan on a basketball court since 2001 or 2002, when the Cleveland Cavaliers played the Washington Wizards at the MCI Center. 

Since I'm pragmatic enough to realize that Jordan will never play in the NBA again, all I need to know is when these practices going to be open to the public?  The minute they sell tickets to these practices, I'm there out of sheer curiosity.  I've seen the Charlotte Bobcats play a game live and defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves.  I was at the Target Center to see the team capture one of its 22 wins, but I have to admit that the news about practice has me interested.

That's right - I'm talking about PRACTICE.

I'm not going to lie.  Michael Jordan scrimmaging with the Bobcats would be more exciting than watching the Bobcats takes on teams like the Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, etc.   

Oh, and if you want to make it even more thrilling put Charles Oakley on the court...  Best friends and NBA legends on the court?!?!  My head just might explode!


THE WIRK

Wizards' McGee and Blatche suspended for tonight's Spurs game ~ Does it even matter?

I was awakened about 20 minutes ago, since my phone went off.  I figured I'd check the NBA schedule and see what the league had in store for me today.  To be honest, today's schedule looks like a whole lot of nothing (i.e. which is fine since Sundays are currently for football for most sports fans).

At any rate, I noticed a headline about the Washington Wizards on NBA.com.  Here's a link to the article:  http://www.nba.com/2010/news/12/25/wizards-suspensions.ap/index.html?ls=iref:nbahpt2.  Evidently, JaVale McGee and Andray Blatche had an altercation at a club late Thursday/early Friday.  Allegedly they were cursing at each other and may have exchanged punches.  According to the article, The Washington Post reported that police were called to break it up.  ****  I wasn't there, so I have no idea.  Last year or a year ago, I witnessed a "scene" when of the Wizards players was forced to wait outside a Washington DC club while LeBron partied inside.  That occasion was definitely more benign than what the article on NBA.com described.

I guess McGee must've been wearing his jersey when this all went down.  ****  Of course, he wasn't...  That's sarcasm, people.  Seriously though ~ could you pick McGee out of a "line-up"?!?!  I couldn't. 

As for Blatche, of the 2 games I've attended at the Verizon Center, it looks like the Wizards are making him a focal point on the team.  I'm not sure that this is a good idea, but time will tell.  I have my reservations... 

At any rate, both players have been suspended for tonight's game against the San Antonio Spurs in San Antonio.  BFD.  It's not as if the Wizards have a good chance of winning tonight's game anyway... 

Merry Christmas McGee and Blatche, you get a day off. 

****  Honestly, I can't be the only one thinking, "Oh no...  Here we go again."


THE WIRK

Gilbert Arenas should shut his mouth and let his game do the talking

I saw a Tweet on my Twitter feed, from TheBigLead, and I was instantly annoyed.  This is the Tweet:

"Gilbert Arenas w/ a dig at the Wizards: "Coach told me to push the ball. Haven't pushed the the ball in the last two years." Smile. Pause."

Are you kidding me?!?!  Who's fault is is that Arenas didn't play the past 2 years (i.e. or years before that)?  Umm, the ONLY answer is Arenas'.  Injury (i.e. real or fake), gun-toting, or whatever the case may be is why Arenas didn't play.  He was the face of the Washington Wizards.  I can't possibly be the only one who thinks his "dig" is laughable. 

Maybe a fresh start in Orlando is just what Arenas needs to breathe life into his stale career.  Maybe Orlando is the CPR his career needs.  At a minimum, the new city, arena, and bench will give him something new to blog about when he's sitting on the bench.

And don't even try it.  I liked Arenas when he was an Arizona Wildcat.  I was excited about the things he could accomplish in the league.  I was a fan, but I did root against him in the series v the Cleveland Cavaliers.  ****  I'm from Ohio.  I had to. 

I realize he's only played two games with the Orlando Magic and that time needs to pass for him to get used to the new offense.  However, I just took a look at his numbers and he's averaging 6 points per game and has a field goal percentage of 17.6%...  I think the Harlem Globetrotters have better numbers.

I looked for an image of Gilbert to put in this blog, but after looking through my photo archives, I can't find any of him playing.  Just saying... 

Come on, Gil.  Prove me wrong.

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

NBA Sunday morning thoughts on the Knicks, Sixers, and Mavericks

I'm getting a slow start today since I had a holiday party last night.  Here are my NBA thoughts as I start to wake up and hustle.

• The Knicks game to go to wasn't the game on Friday night against the Washington Wizards, so in hindsight I missed nothing.  The game to go to is the one being played right now, since the Knicks are up on the Denver Nuggets.  Further, with all the Carmelo Anthony to the New York Knicks rumors swirling, I think there's a whole other element of drama associated with this game.
• I should've hopped on the train and went to NYC this morning...
• I also thought about heading to Philly (i.e. I still have never seen the Sixers play at home) to cross off another venue today.  I thought the game might be fun since the New Orleans Hornets and Chris Paul were in town.  Needless to say, I never motivated.
• Looks like I'm missing nothing, since although the Hornets showed up ~ based on the score (i.e they're losing 45-22) they have yet to PLAY.
• The Dallas Mavericks have extended their win streak to 12.  I need to get myself to Dallas.  I took a look at the Mavs schedule though, and it doesn't synch up with mine. 
• Oh and have I not mentioned it yet in this post?  Dirk Nowitzki is growing on me, now that he cut his hair!  LOL.

With the holidays, my work, and play schedule I don't think I slow down until the week of Christmas.  If you're following this blog, you'll see what I'm talking about as the days unfold. 

I'm still trying to figure out what I want to do and where I want to be, but New York and Dallas are very high on my list!


THE WIRK

***  Update, I'm back from a a movie and just checked the scores.  Wow.  The Knicks beat the Nuggets to extend their win streak to 8 games.  Amare dropped 30 in the victory, to extend his streak to 8 games with 30 points or more...  Forget the Miami Heat.  I'd rather hear about the Knicks or the Mavericks...  Those 2 teams are "legitimately" on fire, since they're defeating quality teams.

Thought about going to watch Amare's Knicks v the Wizards, but might pass

Earlier today I thought about going to the New York Knicks v Washington Wizards game at the Verizon Center.  I have yet to see the new-look, Amare Stoudemire Knicks and thought tonight would be a good night to check out the action.  However, when I checked the Wizards' pregame notes it appears that John Wall isn't going to start (i.e. or maybe even play) tonight.

Ummm, yeah.  No.  Unless my friend scores free tickets for us, I will not be at the Verizon Center tonight.  I could easily scalp a ticket, but it's cold outside and spending money on a Wall-less Wizards' team against a streaking Knicks' team with Amare putting up All-Star stats (i.e. he's going for his 7th consecutive 30-point game) ~ sounds like a waste.

If I decide I care enough to watch, I'll be watching on TV.  No Wall = No Wirk.

Amare leaving the locker room, NBA All-Star Game 2010.

A braided, Chris Bosh, sits on the golf cart..

Wait, that's my friend on my phone...  I might have to get moving after all.

THE WIRK

Magic defeat the Wizards thanks to Dwight Howard's last shot

I came back to the DC area after hanging out with my family for Thanksgiving.  It was an early morning.  I was up at 4AM and slept most of the afternoon away, once I made it back.  I had a feeling my friend, Mandy would call about the Orlando Magic v Washington Wizards game tonight, so I decided to stay in town.  Sure enough a little before 6PM, my phone rang and I hauled my lifeless body to the Verizon Center for the game.

Tip off was at 7PM and I arrived at the arena 10 minutes before the hour.  Mandy had a ticket for me, but I wasn't sure where it'd be.  ****  I'm a bit of a ticket snob.  I expect a good seat when I go to a game, and I'm willing to make sure I have one.  Since I had a few minutes, I decided to scalp a ticket.  The first guy I talked to refused $50 for a ticket in section 120.  That's fine.  The next guy showed me a ticket in section 119, row E.  Face value was $125.  I offered him $50, and next thing you knew, we had a deal.

I texted Mandy that I was good and into the building I went.  Turns out that she and her friends were in section 118.  Perfect.  As I watched the 1st half, it finally hit me late in the 1st quarter that John Wall wasn't playing.  Um, yeah.  Like I said, it's been a long day.  Guess I'll have to go to another game.  ****  Oh, I know ~ I'll go and catch the new look New York Knicks (i.e. with Amare Stoudemire) when they come to town. 

Another thing I noticed was that Gilbert Arenas was playing tonight.  I can't honestly remember the last time I've seen Gilbert in uniform and playing.  He had a great game tonight.  He tallied 31 points.  On one possession Gilbert took a shot and the man on my left told his daughter, "4 years ago, he would have made that shot."  Wow.  What can I say though?  The man spoke the truth.

The game was much closer in the 2nd half, but Mandy et al and I watched the 3rd quarter from The Greene Turtle.  It was our chance to catch up, since I hadn't seen her since I was in Phoenix for the NBA Playoffs.

We went to watch the 4th quarter and the game was definitely tighter.  Incidentally, the line was Washington +7.  I told my friend, I'd take the points if I was him.  Without John Wall, and after the victory over Miami, I figured that the Magic would win, but that the game would be competitive.  Needless to say, I was correct.

After the game, we took our visitor passes and headed to the tunnel to greet the Orlando Magic.  Patrick Ewing walked by, but I've met him numerous times before so I wasn't going to bother him.  He signed a basketball for someone and whoever that person is better realize just how lucky he/she is to have a Ewing autograph.  ****  When I was in college I tried a number of times to get him to sign my Knicks pennant and was always unsuccessful.  However, since I've run into him and talked to him a number of times, I don't feel pressed to make contact again.

I saw J.J. Redick and Chris Duhon and contemplated taking a picture with them, but the more I thought about it ~ I'm "Duke'd" out after all the games I've seen.  I'm actually going to see the Duke v Butler match-up on Saturday (i.e. next week).  My brother is a Duke alumnus...  I'm good.

Alex Ovechkin was at the game sitting courtside. Coincidentally, Vince Carter was also sitting courtside on the Magic's bench, since he's injured (i.e. knee).

The rest of the Orlando Magic eventually trickled out of the locker room, and last but not least, Dwight Howard came out to the tunnel.  Finally, I took a good picture with him and that was all she wrote.

Great night out.  Magic defeated the Wizards with a score of 100-99.  Dwight Howard's put back was the difference, since the Wizards couldn't convert on their final possession.  Dwight Howard finished with 32 points and 11 rebounds.

Not a bad night at all...

THE WIRK

Cavaliers v Wizards tonight ~ It's just not the same this season...

I was looking at the schedules earlier today and noticed that the Cleveland Cavaliers are visiting the Washington Wizards tonight at the Verizon Center.  For a minute I thought about checking it out.  A minute...

This year is different.  Even though I'm an Ohio girl and I'm still a Cavs fan, I don't think I can bring myself to go to the game.  I took a look at the roster and can't get myself to get excited and sit in my "usual" seat behind the Cavs bench. 

Never going to have this view of LeBron in a Cavs jersey again

Actually, for this game, I'd almost be willing to reconnect with some folks that I knew from my days in Cleveland and are affiliated with the Wizards now...  BUT, I'm not going to do that either.  Not tonight.

As I look through all my albums with so many pictures of the Washington Wizards and Cleveland Cavaliers, it's amazing how many of the people have moved on.  Most athletes are journey man.  They can be nomadic because of free agency.  They get traded, and/or eventually retire.  Look at the picture below from Game 6 of the Playoffs in 2008.  None of the guys in the picture play for the same organization now, that they did 2 years ago.

Oh, and if you think I'm going to get all dolled up and head to the Verizon Center to see Anderson Varejao, well...  You don't know me at all.  Sorry...  I have to be honest.  Ugh, that reminds me.  I need to find my "Got Boobie?" shirt.  I like Daniel "Boobie" Gibson and that T-shirt still makes me chuckle...

In a world with so much player mobility, it's no surprise to me that some teams have adopted a "generic" approach to promotion.  In Cleveland, where LeBron James' image was ubiquitous, I'm not surprised that there isn't a face associated with the organization anymore.

Here are some of the latest Cleveland Cavaliers banners adorning Quicken Loans Arena (i.e. photos courtesy of Dave Soulsby, President of Central Graphics Group):

The #10 on the jersey is generic

****I just checked to see if long-time radio announcer, Joe Tait, is traveling with the team after his cardiac surgery.  He's not.  If you haven't heard Joe Tait call a game, you're missing out.  He's truly a special talent.  Best wishes, Joe.  Get better soon. 

I will make it to the Quicken Loans Arena before the end of the year.  Save me a seat.  Wait...  Let me clarify.  Save me a good seat  :-P

The more I think about it, I might just scalp a quick ticket just to watch John Wall "Dougie" during the player introductions...  Who do I think  I am kidding?  I'm not going to go...  LOL.  Here's a clip if you have no idea what I'm talking about.

THE WIRK

Isiah Thomas dreaming of a return to the Knicks is my nightmare

So I eased into the day today and eventually checked the headlines on ESPN.com and noticed that there is a story about Isiah Thomas posted.  I haven't been a fan of Isiah Thomas for many, many years now for a multitude of reasons (e.g. allocation of minutes for a particular center in the Atlanta NBA All-Star game, destruction of the once highly respected New York Knicks, foolish bravado).  However, since my morning started off good, I thought I'd read the article.

Evidently, Isiah is "itching" for a return to the Knicks.  Fan-tas-tic...  ****  For those of you that don't know me that well, or can't hear my voice when you read my words, that's SARCASM.  Are you even kidding me?  He might be itching, but if he actually returns to the Knicks I might vomit or go into a rage like no other. 

Honestly, how self-unaware can an individual be?  How can he not realize what he did to that team?  Does he not recall all the "Fire Isiah" posters and the rallies, petitions from New York Knicks season ticket holders requesting refunds?  I will tell you right now, that I used to love the New York Knicks.  I was a huge Patrick Ewing fan.  In fact, the Georgetown Hoyas losing to Villanova Wildcats in 1985 still devastates me til this day.  I rooted for Ewing, Oakley, Starks, Mason, and yes even Charles Smith (i.e. until he missed those bunny shots) for YEARS.  Despite my dad telling me that the New York Knicks would never win me an NBA Championship, I stood by that team when Reggie Miller made the choking signs Jordan went "Jordan" on them.

Isiah's reign at Madison Square Garden is something I'd like to forget.  In my quest to make it to every professional sporting venue for basketball, baseball, and football ~ would you believe I have yet to make it to a New York Knicks home game?  I've seen the Big East semifinals and a New York Rangers game, but I have yet to watch my once beloved Knicks.  I can't bring myself to do it, and New York is close enough where I can make a day trip out of it. 

I really should check the Knicks' schedule now that Amare Stoudemire is on the squad and the season looks to have more promise....  ****  OK, I just checked the schedule and it looks like the Washington Wizards are visiting the Knicks tonight ~ but there's no way that I can make it to the game in time, with the travel that would need to occur.  Yeah, that's just how my life works sometimes ~ but I'm fine with it, since I'm not really a Wizards fan.  I just need to check out John Wall eventually this year...  It's a long season.   I need to pace myself.

Back to Isiah and his delusions.  Am I really supposed to believe that if Isiah was the president of the Knicks that LeBron James and maybe Dwyane Wade would be wearing New York Knicks jerseys?!?!  Seriously?!?!  Really?!?!  Come on, now.  It's no secret how I feel about LeBron taking his talents to South Beach, and I don't want to start fighting a bunch of New Yorkers who believe that the New York is the greatest place on Earth to play sports ~ but of all things that factored in free agency this year, I doubt that the lack of Isiah Thomas' leadership played a factor.  I'd bet on it.

I don't know what kind of power Isiah Thomas has over James Dolan, but it's sickening.  The fact that Dolan appears to have a short-term memory with regard to Isiah's performance and still tried to bring him on as a consultant is bewildering to say THE LEAST.  It's almost like a co-dependent, abusive boyfriend-girlfriend relationship where both parties kick the crap out of each other, but never officially end things because they're too connected.  It's CRAZY. 

Even if Isiah has basketball merit, the man already cost the organization millions of dollars in a sexual harassment case.  I mean, come on....  What else is left for him to do?  Oh, that's right ~ he's the missing link in the Knicks recruitment of top NBA talent and the reason why the LeBron is LeGone...

Give me a break.


THE WIRK

Not "fine" ~ Arenas faked injury, skipped Wizards home preseason opener

I just read the ESPN article that says that Washington Wizards player, Gilbert Arenas, faked a knee injury for the preseason opener at the Verizon Center.  According to Arenas, he did it because Nick Young was frustrated about his playing time.  Ummmm, yeah....   This is not "OK".  3 cheers for Washington Wizards management and ownership for not letting this go unpunished. 

Gilbert you are not a coach.  You do not make playing time decisions.  That decision belongs to Flip Saunders.  Gilbert, you're a player, and I use the term "player" loosely since you do more blogging than playing at times.  In fact, as a Wizards veteran, I'd expect you to be captain ~ but alas, you are not.

Please shut up.  Please stop faking.  Please just PLAY.

Here's your chance to wear Arenas' old "Agent Zero" jersey, more than he did...


THE WIRK

Unathorized comments on NBA hard salary cap cost Ted Leonsis $100,000

Welcome to the NBA ownership, Ted Leonsis!  It looks like David Stern threw down the hammer when he fined Ted Leonsis $100,000 for his unauthorized comments regarding the NBA's collective bargaining negotiations and allusion to the adoption of a hard salary cap (i.e. similar to the NHL).  For those of you that don't know, Ted Leonsis is a new majority owner for the Washington Wizards, but he has been majority owner of the Washington Capitals for years.  Therefore, he's familiar with the "benefits" of a hard salary cap.

According to Wikipedia, "In June 2005, the NBA's 1999 CBA expired, meaning the League and the players' union had to negotiate a new agreement; in light of the fiasco that was the 2004–05 NHL lockout, the two sides quickly came to an agreement, and ratified a new CBA in July 2005. The new agreement will expire following the 2010–11 season, but the league has the option to extend it through the 2011–12 season if it wishes. If so, the League must exercise its option to extend the agreement by December 15, 2010."

For any of you that can't sleep and want to read the current CBA (i.e. collective bargaining agreement), here's the link:  http://www.nbpa.org/cba/2005

Personally, I have very fond memories of the 1998-1999 NBA season and the associated NBA Lockout...  Ahhhh, yes.  Those were the days :-P

THE WIRK