BASKETBALL 24/48/82

THE BATTLE OF LOS ANGELES

2012-01-27T07:45:00.000-08:00

Hollywood’s Biggest Blockbuster.

By Tim David Harvey

Welcome to L.A., where there appears to be changing weather on the horizon in Southern California. It seems these days the stars are shining brighter and in this city of angels everyone is looking to fly. Los Angeles may not have a NFL team…yet (thanks Magic), but they boast two NBA franchises. Now that’s no new news…but what is, is that for the first time in what seems like ever the two basketball teams seem evenly matched. Now isn’t that interesting?

In the red (and blue corner) stand the young, hungry L.A. Clippers and their poster boy/dunking highlight/new star of the; NBA Blake Griffin, and in the purple and gold corner stand league legend, and the closest thing to ‘His Airness’; Kobe Bryant and his Los Angeles Lakers. For the first time the STAPLES Centre can host two teams with pride. Sure this is the house Kobe helped build, with all those rings and Lakers banners but now the Clippers can claim residence too…and not just when the floor is changed in their favour.

A city with two top teams makes for a great divide. Like Everton and Liverpool in the English, Soccer Premier League, this is a ‘derby’ that’ll attract fans, competition, followers, buzz, hype and more revenue to a post-lockout hurt NBA. Somewhere David Stern is licking his wounds, rubbing his hands together and smiling. This rivalry could result in some epic battles, for years in the making.

Blake Griffin brought more than dunks and ‘Top Ten Plays of the Week’ to the Clippers Nation. You, see he’s much more than those Shawn Kemp and Shaq’s lovechild rim rockers. His great game have kept the Clips in it and helped attract a fresh, new team to the other side of Hollywood…along with some new A-List fans.

You could even call Blake a better recruiter than LeBron as him; DeAndre Jordan, Eric Bledsoe and the rest of the young bucks have been joined by some real veteran talent. The Lakers (minus the literal gutting loss of Lamar Odom) may still be intact thanks to Gasol, Fisher, some World Peace and a career and Dwight Howard bettering Andrew Bynum, but the Clippers are stacked…high. There’s ‘mo’ to this team than talent like Williams. Take former Lakers alumni Caron Butler and Brian Cook, former Laker killer Chauncey Billups and of course more importantly Chris Paul, (who almost was a Laker) to the other side of all those championship banners.

Hence, here lies the birth of this new competitiveness between the two L.A. squads and rivalry. Even if Derek Fisher insists there’s no bad blood, there’s certainly some boiling tension. It may be playful and fun (and that’s when rivalries are at their best and most enjoyable) but we all see the back and forth. Not only have both teams drawn each others blood in their two official meetings this year, the subplots are turning into individual script-selling stories of their own in a town full of tall tales.

Look at Chris Paul. Many angry Laker fans and even the player himself believe he should be standing next to Kobe in purple and gold, but instead now Kobe has been standing between him and the player that should have ended up in New Orleans in his place. You see even Pau Gasol is trash-talking. Now that’s the ‘soft-shedding’ style all of Lakers Nation wants to see. In the Lakers/Clippers matchup the other day after a play Pau tussled what little hair Paul has. What resulted was a frustrated, almost angry response from the usually cool and calm Chris which in reality was nothing, but in some other way looked like the Clippers Point making a stand against a player whose spot he could have taken. Things are clearly tense in this tight competition.

As we know, instead of being the biggest P.G. since Magic to lead the Lakers, David Stern sent Chris Paul back to New Orleans on a nixed trade that then left the Lakers out of commission as they lost Lamar Odom, the most versatile aspect of their squad, their open floor and almost much more. Also despite David’s stern, post lockout, lock down, iron-fist control, CP3 ended up in STAPLES and L.A. anyway but for what used to be the cities sister team.

Now with purple blood more than simmering, this changing of the guard has also altered the time and tide of this league and its balances of power and made for one hell of a war story for the intensity of these two titan teams clashes. The Lake Show still have an age and critic defying Kobe and all that championship experience behind them in terms of weight, but with Blake, the future and some of the leagues past best on their side the Clippers are more than tipping the scale.

All these backlashes and back-stories make for one hell of a matchup and with the season series spilt, only one more game or even an almost destined to happen amazing playoff series looks like the determining factor in finalising which team is better; the ageing contender or the young pretender. Even with all this journalistic talk and Chris Paul argument there really is a hell of a lot more to play for and this makes for a heaven sent matchup in this angelic city of star-making stories.

L.A. has always been its own city, and even in the limited city National Basketball Association this town with two teams raged against the basketball business machine. Now in this battle of Los Angeles the whole city is up for grabs as the Clippers and the Lakers look to take the house for their own. It’s all about to be left on the changing of the floor. Will it be show’s over in Clipperland? Or lights out for the Lake Show? May the best team win.

KOBE BRYANT-THE DARK KNIGHT RISES

2012-01-19T16:52:00.000-08:00

The Legend.

"Not bad for seventh best player in the league"

Why so serious? Why the hate? Why the doubt. Continually fans and critics alike write off Kobe Bryant but it's clear he still has the beans to make it to the final shuffle. Despite LeBron, the city of Dallas, the whole critical landscape and a recent loss standing in his way Kobe still fast breaks forward. Too old? He's 33 for basketball God's sake. That may be old in dog years, but the Dobermans still got plenty of seasons to come before he starts emulating 'Floor Jordan'. ESPN's seventh best player in the league? Pleeeease!

"Just making adjustments, you've got to figure out a way to get it done"

In the face of the twilight years of his career, Kobe remains in the zone, where lesser players would fold. He remains doubled and tripled, when other former stars are singled out and ignored in this game. A few years back the fabulous, inventive 'Freedarko' book 'The Macrophenomenal Pro Basketball Almanac: Styles, Stats, and Stars in Today's Game' said that if Shaquille O'Neal was Superman with a 'S' on his chest, then that made Kobe Bryant 'The Dark Knight'.

We've known for years that he was far from a Robin-esque sidekick but the book described the Lakers Batman as being a "stormy mortal" and "vulnerable but all the stronger for it". Kobe may not be as "cute and cuddly" as Chris Rock and everyone else though, but his dark, killer instinct to the game help him make the chess moves that takes down the other NBA pawns. All the Jokers and the Riddler's of the league better watch out. This 'Dark Knight' is about to rise.

"Everybody cries for a change, cries for you know the fact I'm too old, it's just a bad game and a bad wrist"

Like the boy that cried wolf, we don't believe the lies. We've heard it all before. Sure Kobe is getting slower but that just means he's seeing the game even slower, like Magic, like 'The Matrix'. He's in control, breaking it down piece by piece like Sherlock Holmes, breaking it down play by play, detecting breaks and smoking the opposition. Age 'aint nothing but a number, legends like Aaliyah and Kobe know this. One bad game is just a box score. A lasting legacy is forever more. Imagine if Kobe's wrist wasn't hurt and strapped for all those 40 plud games, even the critics had to jokingly admit, he could of gone as cold as Toronto or Drake again and hit 81. That would have made headlines for sure. They know...they know.

Still, 'can he sustain it?' Of course they ask, and of course as short and sweet as ever Bryant responds.

"What do you think"

As the journalist laughs off a struggle for a reply.

"Go ahead say no...go ahead",

"Nobody cares what I think", the journalist replies.

"Exactly"

Exactly, its all on Kobe...and Kobe knows this. Sure more critics and opponents are coming his way. Some work for magazines, some are called Durant, but Bryant answers them all, keeps it short, simple, elegant and executing. Bryant's murder game is killing fields. We know the man, but we don't know his methods. From the play to the compliments paid, Bryant's earning his way back into the top consideration. A mindset that should have never left him. Sure people can touch this basketball God these days but beware of the wrath of this Titan in each and every clash. The Black Mamba may let you get close enough, but that's only to trap you, bite you and sink his teeth and venom in you. Thinking you have one over a silent warrior and a Dark Knight is poisonous, it's deadly.

"It's a weapon"

Kobe scores big sure when his team needs him but he also knows when to deflect to the Lakers last second king when the clutch calls for it. They say Kobe can;t do it on his own and they are right. That's why the Lake Show reels off guys like Derek Fisher, Pau Gasol and the ever Dwight Howard forgetting Andrew Bynum. Still when they are backed down, Kobe steps up. Some may blame him, but they forget he does this when they need him. People forget the MVP award Kobe won when he became more of a team player...oh and those championships too.

His career is classic, his play cinematic. Sure LeBron and Voltron may have a hold over the once ESPN magazine heralded Iron Man of the league, but Kobe and his Avengers look to bring box-office success to Hollywood this year, no matter how many celebrities or detractors show up. It doesn't matter to bean, Bryant will still flash that Jordanesque smile and play. Kobe's having fun in the second half of his career and is really seeing the game for what it is...beautiful. It's about time those who hate really recognised the one that makes this game the thing we love. The one that makes it all look so good.

"That's what makes it fun, you know for me its always about the beauty of the game"

The trilogy isn't complete...yet.

LAKER GREEN

2012-01-04T17:50:00.000-08:00

A.C. Green's days as a Laker.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

There is one type of 'Green' that those who bleed purple and gold can mix with. It's the former player that wore the 45 on his jersey like Jordan out of retirement. The current of A.C.'s career saw him become an icon on two legendary Los Angeles Laker teams. Many ex-Laker players have passed through Hollywood twice. From other Showtime greats like Byron Scott, to current favourites Derek Fisher. Even Magic pulled a secondary Laker career out of his bag of passing tricks. Still the recurring role A.C. Green played for the Lakers flipped the script. His storied career saw one take a young buck with plenty of show during the eighties time, while his L.A. times sequel saw him as a valuable veteran on the Lakers dynasty of the new millennium.

From the 'frop to the fade and the forum to STAPLES A.C Green made his space as a regular staple for two great Laker teams. From finishing the Showtime breaks to leading the 2000 Champion teams bench with his Pied Piper guidance A.C. was a current and former great. Alternating between style and substance, youth and experience and flash and fortitude Green even made the Celtics envious. Colouring his career with great plays and contributions this was one green lucky charm for the Lakers that was far removed from Boston.

Everyone in L.A. was looking and watching, from Diane Keaton to Dr. Dre, fans to rivals and star players to role guys. A.C. bridged the gap between everybody and on a team full of stars in the biggest stage in the NBA, he still shined. Some questioned his beliefs, but nobody could doubt his faith. Sure some made jokes about his virginity, but on his day no one could screw with A.C.

How does 1,192 straight games played suit ya? The true NBA's 'Iron Man' shows a stark contrast to some of today's players who can't display that kind of consistency and cohesiveness. This Laker hero really was something to marvel at helping the top Lakers brass become a true war machine. Forget D.C. or any other NBA city. It was L.A. and A.C. that lead the charge.

Phoenix, Dallas and Miami may have been home for a while when A.C. laid his hat and the Portland raised player may reside in the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame since 2003 but when it came to Los Angeles there was just something about that town. The whole city was behind him. The All-Star with some delightful dunks was more than glitz and glamour. A.C. also gleamed from three and could keep your best player at bay with his All-Team recognised D.

He led the Lakers in rebounding for six of his first eight years for his team. Taking his own possession and proving that he didn't have to have a lot of plays run for him in a team that was led by Kareem, Magic and Big Game James amongst others. Green was still worthy however on his way to two rings, before his third during his second tenure with the Lakers in a new decade and the twilight of his career. Even though A.C. burned more pine than time. He still stepped it up off the bench to varnish the Indiana Pacers and put the finishing touches on the Lakers 2000, Game 6 Finals clinching win with a big three that must have even looked good to Robert Horry and Derek Fisher on the bench. Green played his role to the tee like these two and Rick Fox, as valuable as veterans like Brian Shaw or the championship certified, Phil Jackson/Chicago Bulls endorsed Ron Harper.

Today A.C. Green is the ambassador of basketball for 3BA International a 3-on-3 basketball league that plays in the U.S. and China but his Laker years are what truly took his worldwide. As his character grew so did his reputation. The man that used to quote scriptures to keep females at bay, stuck to his morals and the Lakers Showtime story. What resulted was the best picture of his career playing his role in support of the Lakers. Sure he may not make the rafters with his jersey, but his Laker career is worthy of putting in a frame. Everyone should be able to take a look at it, because it belongs to one of the greatest shows of all time.

READ TO ACHIEVE: BOOK CLUB

2012-01-04T03:14:00.000-08:00

A reference to the definitive reading list.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

'Read To Achieve' feature takes you through the library of some classic reads. Take what you please, just make sure you return for more.

FREEDARKO PRESENTS THE MACROPHENOMENAL PRO ALMANAC, STYLES, STATS & STARS IN TODAY'S GAME: This is the ultimate guide to today's game...if a few years out of date, sorry T-Mac and Gilbert. This is one awesome almanac. A different look at today's game with stats of greater significance, wonderful writing styles that could run on the same dunking line as 'SLAM' magazine and incredible, fitting illustrations that illuminate this read. With classic chapters about cult players and a forward by guard Agent Zero, Gilbert Arenas himself as a prologue this is bound to be one of the most entertaining basketball reads...ever.

FREEDARKO PRESENTS THE UNDISPUTED GUIDE TO PRO BASKETBALL HISTORY: One good book deserves a sequel. A different but delightful look at the history of roundball, written with passion and compassion and illustrated with style and substance. Pure poetry and art comes out of every page. This book is full of tidbits and great tales that you may have not heard. Such as the time after a Latrell Sprewell and Chris Webber Nike advert mocked C-Webb's dunk on Charles Barkley, Sir Chuck dropped 57 in a game on both players and backpedaled past their bench and yelled; "put that in a commercial". Need any more advertising for this book?

HOOPS: A big, beautiful photo album that takes you through the history of the National Basketball Association with perfect portraits of everyone from Wilt Chamberlain to Kevin Garnett. This book says a thousand words.

NBA COACHES PLAYBOOK: For coaching candidates and promising purists alike this textbook is the perfect study and revision of all basketball plays from Tex Winter's infamous triangle to Kareem's notorious sky hook. Why? Because they and every other legend of the NBA dry-erase writes these chapters you should constantly go back to for inspiration like Bible verses.

50 AMAZING YEARS IN THE CITY OF ANGELS: Young writers looking for inspiration need this book like those who bleed purple and gold. From the style of legendary Pulitzer prize winner and basketball story-teller Jim Murray to all the definitive articles and portraits of Laker success. This truly is the words of the Los Angeles Times.

WHEN THE GAME WAS OURS: Who better to speak on the rivalry, friendship, force and revolution that was Magic and Bird in the eighties then the men themselves? This dual autobiography really keeps Larry and Johnson together with stories better than what Grandmama could tell you. A slam dunk hit as the two come-together converse like their sneaker deal. This book was shot and assisted perfectly by Hall Of Fame sportswriter Jackie MacMullan.

SHAQ UNCUT: MacMullan also hits recently retired Shaquille O'Neal with a dime for a book that is almost as big and legendary as the mans career. Detailing his higher than the sky highs and his oft-publicised lows from the Magic to Celtics this is THE real account of one of the most unique careers in NBA history. Of course this read wouldn't be the same without some music or cinematic moments or of course the biggest attractions in Miami and Hollywood with the Lakers...and yes Kobe's mentioned. Want more? Then read to achieve.

SHAQ TALKS BACK: This isn't the only time the Big daddy's put big pen to paper. Shaq's first autobiography-written during his L.A. days is funny, frank, insightful and inspirational. The man who can make you laugh and see his point too really has something to say and if that isn't enough his Hollywood nights have some telling tales of everyone from Leonardo DiCaprio to Robert Downey Jnr.

WEST BY WEST: MY CHARMED, TORMENTED LIFE: Still if you like your legends a little quieter than how about Jerry West? He is one of the greatest Lakers of all time and the logo of the NBA after all. Breaking years of silence and coming off Roland Lazenby's classic 'Jerry West: The Life and Legend of a Basketball Icon' West details his best of times and worst of times too. Mr. Clutch talks about winning on the floor and in the boardroom with the Lakers but also talks honestly and humbly about his battles with the devastation of depression and in doing so gives help and hope to those readers that may suffer from the same affliction. What a true professional.

SHOOTING STARS: LeBron James takes it back to the glory days of High School with the 'Friday Night Lights' of Buzz Bussinger and some old Irish. Revealing, real, nostalgic and nice this locker room talk of the high school days just shows this dynasty maker that to know where your going you have to know where you came from.

DRIVE-THE STORY OF MY LIFE: Bird's first autobiography takes the reader from the French Lick to the battles with Magic. The tricks of the Celtics legends trade is told in the pages of a perfect and precise pronouncement. This book plays out like Larry Legend's career, big, bold-at times boastful-but always beautiful. This blue-collar book is anything but hard work.

DRIVEN FROM WITHIN: Michael Jordan and Nike team up for a photo book/quote by quote autobiography that has an air of awe-inspiring influence. It looks great but don't think the style of this success story makes the substance give way. Inspirational and motivational quotes have only been greater in Muhammed Ali's 'The Soul Of A Butterfly' or the letters that make up Martin Luther King's autobiography.

MY LIFE: We picked this book up on from a side street seller in New York for two dollars but in reality it's worth it's weight in millions shipped. Earvin Johnson shows he's got the Magic for writing too with the tales of the tricks of his trade. A book as entertaining, enigmatic, magnificent, moving, inspiring, insightful, influential, and as real as the man himself.

THE ART OF A BEAUTIFUL GAME: Chris Ballard's book of this brilliant game of basketball is a beautiful ballad of sports writing. Every chapter is like a separate sonnet of praise to all the in's and out's and idiosyncrasies of different facets of the workings of legendary players minds and games. From Kobe Bryant's killer instinct to Steve Kerr's shot it's all here and it's never been told or explained better.

THE LAST SEASON-A TEAM IN SEARCH OF A SOUL: Coach Phil Jackson's classic and controversial book about basically the season of Shaq and Kobe's break-up drew rave-reviews and ravenous readers. It's revealing and honest, thorough and forthright as everything is taken to task with a gentleman's class. Sure as Phil and Kobe got back together in the name of two Larry O'Brien's some now render this book insignificant, but this story serves as more than a footnote to the careers of both Bryant and Jackson, plus many more too.

CHARACTER DRIVEN-LIFE, LESSONS & BASKETBALL: Derek Fisher's story extends further then the range of one if the Lakers and the leagues most legendary clutch playing, role-players. His life and times feature more hardship and positive looks towards inspiration than a Jay-Z song sampling 'Annie'. OK, boys and girls this man may have spent his career in the shadow of today's best Kobe, but even the greatest wouldn't have had half the hits without his perfect producer in his corner. Derek Fisher's tale is one that needs to be told. Are you sitting comfortably?

KAREEM: They say he's too closed off, but Cap really opens here. They say he's boring, but Kareem will make you laugh. They say he's dull, but this big-book has colour. They even dared to say he doesn't have a lot of love, but this book has as much heart as it does soul. Arguably the greatest basketball player turned writer gets shows so much personality in his most personal piece of published prose.

THE WINNER FROM WITHIN: From the cover to the preface this book looks like a self-help guide and in a lot of ways it is. Still, Pat Riley's autobiography is as slick, serious and sincere as the legendary coach and man himself. This book will inspire and influence you like no other but it will also tell you all about this one in a million, genuine guy. To hear the story of his whole life within and beyond basketball is to help take you further with yours and learn a little something extra about the game too.

WILT, 1962: One of the most important stories in basketball history told with truth by Gary M. Pomerantz. Different peoples takes and stories help document a moment taking us back to that infamous night in '62 when Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single, legendary basketball game and iconic moment in sports history. This game may have never been televised or taped but this biography brings this subject alive for the record. This is fact not fiction. There you have it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

BOOK REVIEW: SHAQUILLE O'NEAL-SHAQ UNCUT

2012-01-03T02:03:00.000-08:00

4/5

The Big Autobiography.

By Tim David Harvey

SUPERMAN

'Shaq Uncut', this writer has to admit. It took a long time for him to get round to this book, but not a long time to read and that wasn't because of the 'Large Print' edition I was accidentally ordered for Christmas. Then again a larger than life character like Shaquille O'Neal could only do it B.I.G. like this. The only reason it took me so long to get round to this tell-all autobiography penned only months after his retirement announcement was because I was still finding it hard to accept that the most entertaining figure in basketball who got an 11 year old English kid from a small seaside town in the U.K. into this great sport of Basketball was done.

The same kid, now 26 who purposely shaped his American holiday last April around trying to catch a glimpse of the big fella in action before he retired while in Boston, Chicago and Miami, even if it was for the Celtics and even if it was in the twilight of his career. I still had dreams of Jeanie, that the Buss family would bring Shaq back to L.A. for an All-Star redeeming, reunion with Kobe for one more go at Larry O'Brien. Still literally the biggest star of the NBA called it a one of a kind career.

THE DIESEL

It seems whether on or off the court, Shaq was always going at full-speed and never running on fumes. Whether it be his jam and rim dropping power plays, or his generous charity work, or extra-curricula entertaining activities. It's little wonder he crafted the follow up to his funny first autobiography ('Shaq Talks Back') so quickly, of course with the help of another Hall Of Famer in the form of Jackie MacMullan, the co-writer of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird's New York Times Bestselling 'When The Game Was Ours' dual autobiography. Jackie really brings everything together with her descriptive, nostalgic chapter openings and stories.

THE BIG ARISTOTLE

Coming out around the same time as Jerry West's highly anticipated book 'West By West, My Charmed, Tormented Life', this is another great gift that many Laker fans would have loved to have found under their trees this Christmas gone. Another purple and gold Laker legend colours his career over his scribes. Of course with Shaq, your bound to get more than a few smiles and belly laughs. Just check out what he bench pressed during one Celtic team talk last year in one of the last chapters. Still Shaquille knows how to move us with his words. The 'Little Warrior' details his upbringing and troubles that he didn't over-indulge in complaining about during his career. There is also a fitting and moving tribute to his late, great friend the legendary, rapper The Notorious B.I.G.

SHAQ FU

The NBA's biggie shows focus throughout these pages as he talks about his approach to the game and how the league works. Telling stories of how he developed his Magic passing skills in Germany when he couldn't dunk and the sealed with the blow of a kiss moment the light hit him that is was time to enrol in LSU University Shaq's nostalgia paints a picture of him we've never seen before. He also gives us a deep, through inside-knowledge analysis of his teammates, peers and the players that rule the league now and how far they can and should go. Shaq may be an NBA analyst on T.V. now but if that gig ever falls by the wayside (yeah right) he could seriously make it as a sportswriter.

BIG DADDY

Still it was on court where Shaq made his bread and butter, as he spread his talents into platinum, decent rap albums and some big Hollywood pictures. Shaq truly was the man and from his Orlando rookie days, to being the biggest Laker since Magic it really is interesting and inspiring to read about one of the biggest influences on the modern-day game. Any Laker fan looking to take a trip down memory lane, are drawn right into the greatest moments of the Lakers three-peat. With insight to how it all went down...and then how things fell down soon after, these are the words from the horse mouth that the media have been galloping after for years.

THE BIG SHAQTUS

Still Laker fans needn't stop reading or put the book in the fridge like Joey from 'Friends' once Shaq takes his talents away from Chick Hearn and the Lakers and to South Beach. What follows is some hot pages about O'Neal's time with the Heat and his relationship with former coach Pat Riley. Like the great coach, this take is slick but thoughtful, concentrated but at times humorous...and in the end it all seems in good nature. After all the two men that where known to keep guaranteeing championships at parade probably have more in common than they think. As Shaq takes his talents from South beach to LeBron and Cleveland via Phoenix we are in for even more terrific tales from the tall man.

WILT CHAMBERNEEZY

Shaquille O'Neal also gives it up to the legends before him. Speaking candidly about the giant greats that came before him and paved the way. Although his relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Bill Walton doesn't seem the best, he gives uppermost praise and respect to the 'Lord Of The Rings' forefather Bill Russell. He also respects Wilt Chamberlain's privacy with a testifying, tribute to the late, great, big Basketball God. From Penny, to Wade and LeBron Shaq also shares his insight and time with his sidekick guard greats with all due respect and consideration...and then of course there is the talk on Kobe. Which is humbly and honestly written with love, respect and consideration over the pages. The highs and the lows are reached here and it's all done without the usual B.S. that comes with other peoples biographies.

THE REAL DEAL

This is because Shaq really is the genuine article and over these chapters it's clear to read the reason this players career was so classic. It was more than just the power, problems and perfect game (minus the free-throws)...it was about the personality. In the character stakes even if Shaq was as tall as Muggsy Bogues he still would have towered above the rest. That contagious smile and enthusiasm keeps the pages of this book turning and although the man that has done so much details every distinct aspect it's often downplayed. Even though the character's ego is big, his humility is notorious too. The kid from Newark that always honors his parents and upbringing is still here.

THE BIG SHAMROCK

Even 'The Big Fellas' last season as a Celtic are worthy of praise as you read more into it. From his contributions to his battles and his funny frolics around Harvard. The A* basketball student also shares with us his studied in the entertainment and social-networking industry and his graduation through the ranks of law enforcement. Often times it seems like O'Neal's career has been 'Shaq vs The World' but as you finish this book all those who are against him will even start to realise there is no one quite like Shaquille O'Neal on this earth. A legendary personality, player and generous, genuine man. Whether you know him as a Laker or a Cavalier, a platinum rapper or a genie from a boom box, a charitable force or a cop, after this real, revealing read, you'll know the everyone man simply known as...

SHAQ

BOOK REVIEW: JERRY WEST-WEST BY WEST, MY CHARMED, TORMENTED LIFE

2011-12-29T03:38:00.001-08:00

4/5

Going West.

What else can we say about Jerry West? A Los Angeles Laker champion and legend as a player and a general manager, immortalised in bronze for an overdue statue this year. Olympic champion and one of the greatest players the league has ever seen. The man is the image of the logo of the NBA for heaven's sake...he is a basketball God. What more can you say than that? Or what more can be said about this man than Roland Lazenby's incredible read 'Jerry West: The Life and Legend of a Basketball Icon'? Well how about some words from the man himself? A shy, at times troubled man who isn't one for interviews, press conferences or even events honoring him. What more do we need now than some words from the horses mouth?

So one of the Lakers greatest knight's finally opens up with Jonathan Coleman for the magnificent, moving memoir 'West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life'. A book that covers everything from the highest of Mr. West's highs to the lowest of his lows on and off the basketball court. Recounts of a classic career that saw Gold on the national and international stage, a bevvy of legendary teammates and associates and a reputation for being one of the best closers in the game are detailed here.

Relationships with Laker legends like Elgin Baylor, Wilt Chamberlain, Gail Goodrich, Magic Johnson, James Worthy, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Pat Riley, Mitch Kupchak, Jerry Buss, Shaquille O'Neal, Kobe Bryant and the lack of one with Phil Jackson are detailed here. As our his relationship with Bill Russell and the Lakers bitter, storied rival the Boston Celtics who ignited the competitive fire by beating them six time in one decade. Extended testimony's from his closest friends and players, plus his dream team, dream game are also thrown in for different and interesting measures.

Still it's when Jerry details the facts about his personal life that things become more open and revealing. A private and sensitive side that should truly be explored if your read this book and not this review. Jerry tells his story best with humble honesty and touching tenderness. The guy said to have a regular Joe name could almost change it to Frank Forthright. The silhouette of the NBA comes out from the shadows to shed some light on his troubles and in a way helps illuminate the darkness of fellow depression sufferers. Jerry shows fellow sufferers that you can live with the mental affliction...and live happily too. It's an important lesson learnt throughout Jerry's life and this book. It's a bold and brave move which Jerry executes as precisely and perfectly as one of his buzzer-beating shots.

The Big Shot player doesn't clutch for sympathy or fish for compliments, instead he inspires with his profound, poignant look at the fragility of life and the strength of one's character. Mr. Clutch will have you in his grasp in a one-sitting, page-turning read. This is a influential portrait and as this pro confesses over some pros he remains even in retirement the consummate professional. One of the greatest finishes of all-time yet again sends a shiver down our spine with a big play that leaves everyone better off for it. Once again Mr. West finds his range and strikes the right chord. The man that won a championship, a gold medal and brought 'Showtime' and Shaq and Kobe to L.A. scores one of his biggest and most significant hits yet. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

I WOULDN'T BET AGAINST KOBE BRYANT

2011-12-17T09:07:00.000-08:00

Would you?

By Tim David Harvey

So the Los Angeles Lakers were supposed to cool off the Miami Heat with their own big-three this offseason.

So they were supposed to acquire both Dwight Howard and Chris Paul for a few pieces in order to lasso the Dallas Mavericks and take revenge for the champion’s knockout sweep of them this past playoffs, while taking back Larry O'Brien.

Then David Stern happened.

Then a nixed CP3 trade happened as the commissioner wanted to keep the New Orleans Hornets together. Still Chris Paul ended up heading to Los Angeles and the STAPLES Centre anyway...for the Los Angeles Clippers?

Then the rumour mill was whirling with news that Dwight Howard was still going to be traded...but to the New Jersey Nets!?

If that wasn't bad enough, the Lakers/New Orleans trade may have been blocked but you can't take back hurt feelings and an offended Lamar Odom demanded a move. So the Lakers sent their most versatile player and threat to the team that swept them and their biggest new rival the Dallas Mavericks!? For practically nothing?!

Now the Lakers are left with a depleted, disgruntled frontline featuring trade bait Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum (who are still incredible players, but probably can't help but feel little loyalty), some out of shape World Peace, no real Point Guard, and according to some critics no real chance.

If that wasn't enough remember that Phil Jackson and his Zen are somewhere between Montana and some rumours of New York.

Still, I wouldn't bet against Kobe Bryant!

I wouldn't bet against the greatest player in the league and the greatest player ever not named Michael. Carmelo Anthony, Derrick Rose and Kevin Durant can still wait like LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, for Kobe is still the player to beat. Until he unlaces them Kobe will run this basketball game from a player perspective. You can't retire that. He is still that good. Sure he's older but he's nowhere near done. He's nowhere near M.J.'s level yes, but he's also nowhere near Floor Jordan's level when he was at the Washington Wizards...and Mike was still schooling cats then. Kobe's got his hops back; his killer-instinct is still intact and as for that Maverick sweep? Number 24 is out for revenge.

Kobe's walked off opposing team’s floors before, head-down, looking purple, with opposing team coloured ticker-tape falling down in someone else's celebration. They said he was done back then in Boston, but then he made twice as nice on some championship rings 'sans' Shaq. No wonder O'Neal calls him the greatest Laker ever. Back when they played together Shaq called Kobe his 'idol'. Hate it or love it, Bryant is still the poster boy of the NBA. He hasn't just built walls...he's knocked them down. Only Jordan in his prime has Kobe's skill, will, or killer instinct. At the end of the game, two down with two on the clock, who else do you want to have the ball (apart from Derek Fisher behind the arc of course). It's no contest. If there's a way to win, Kobe will find it.

This season is going to be one of the hardest for the Black Mamba but he's still got venom. This is personal. Its got nothing to do with the sad news of his divorce (that's his private life...respect that). Its got nothing to do with the endorsements, hyperdunks, critics, lockout, all the talk, blogs and bull$£* that comes with the great hype and build up of the world’s greatest league. Its to do with how the game has played out and by the end who has put the ball in the basket more times. At the end of it all, after it's all said and done who else do we need to talk about? That's Kobe's bread and butter. That's Kobe's job. That's Kobe's forte. That's Kobe. That's all you need to know.

I wouldn't bet against Kobe Bryant...would you?

NO SIXTH SENSE-WHY THE LAKERS SHOULDN'T HAVE GIVEN UP LAMAR ODOM

2011-12-11T17:36:00.000-08:00

A Seventh Sin.

By Tim David Harvey

In what seems like an NBA minute, Lamar Odom has gone from throwing elbows at the Dallas Mavericks to possibly throwing champagne, championship party with them next season. After almost joining Pau Gasol in a 'Sternly' nixed package deal that would have brought Chris Paul to Lakerland, Lamar Odom is now taking his understandably hurt feelings and his Kardashian down to Texas. Sure the former Laker champion will have to watch the team that swept him receive their championship rings that could have been his to begin his Christmas Day and new season but still, the Lakers loss looks like Dallas and their new Mavericks gain.

After a horrible end to a disappointing season the bright lights of L.A. didn’t have many bright spots in their 2010/2011 defending champion year. Except for the consistency of Lamar Odom and his own victorious 'Sixth Man of the Year' award however. It has been clear for many years that this microwave, bench warmer deserves more credit and it's almost a given that he'll be an all-star in no time. It's the next logical step. The Hollywood smooth, reality star, big-game, big-name sharer already has star power to go with some Magic fundamentals. We're talking about THE Magic, as in Earvin Johnson. This is no illusion.

Sure calling Lamar Odom one of the greatest players in the league is a bit of a hater-ready overstatement, but he sure is one of the greatest talents this league has to offer and a one of a kind great. Put it this way coming off the bench he was the Lakers ace in the hole. They should have never dealt one of their best hands. Put it another way, you don't deal the leagues most versatile player to its most versatile team. Especially when that team is one that swept and knocked you out of championship contention. Now not only do the new NBA champions have Larry O'Brien on their side, they also have a motivated, angry Lamar Odom on their side. You can call this a rivalry now and guess who has the advantage?

This is more potent a power move then when the Lakers looked to keep their enemies closer by signing Dallas' bench hot-rod J.J. Barea. The Lamar Odom move actually happened and is more of a big-name, big-game changer. Like James Worthy, Jaamal Wilkes and other smooth, versatile big-forwards before him Lamar Odom will always go down as a Laker champion and great, but what an awful shame his legacy was cut short. Now as L.O. looks to continue his champagne campaign via American Airlines, the Lakers nation can't help but feel grounded by losing one of their brightest and best personalities and players.

Sure if Lamar Odom was shipped away to gain Chris Paul and championship leverage than maybe this could be easier for the Lakers fans to swallow, but even that trade with Pau Gasol seemed to leave the Lakers depleted. David Stern was right it was unfair. It almost seemed like the Lakers were giving up too much and two players too many. Then with the commissioners collapse of the trade the Lakers were left with some collateral damage to their cohesiveness. Because of hurt feelings the baited trade left in Lamar Odom a new trade was demanded at his request to be cast-out. Now the Lakers have lost him for practically nothing but a draft pick. OK, this opens up the cap space and doors for Dwight Howard but surely the Lakers could have amnestied someone else to help keep their roster in shape.

Losing Odom not only loses the Lakers versatility, it also narrows their playing field...or their floor to be more specific. Lamar's all-round game opened up the Lakers, offence, playbook and court in a way like no other. Now he's gone the Lakers are a Bynum or a Gasol away from losing a formidable frontline. Sure Dwight Howard may bring the perfect smiles back to Hollywood, but Odom's loss clearly reveals that this team needs more work done. It's not just about one guy and this sixth man really backed his team up to the core. There's no 'I' in 'team' or 'championship' and now there's no 'L.O.' in 'Los Angeles'. Gone are his career close 14.4 points per game and 8.7 rebounds from last year to go with his career highs in three-point (.382) and field goal (.530) percentages. Also gone, beyond statistics are his above average all-round game, his scoring, passing, range and long limbs that reach all sort off off-ball fundamentals and facets. Also his class, charisma and great locker room presence will be sorely missed.

As he enters the halls that Mark Cuban built however Odom brings more dimensions to a team that has more than a geometry class. Odom's numbers may go down in the talent pool lassoed by the Mavericks, but his productivity and intangible output. His championship experience, both on the winning and losing end will be as valuable a commodity as his inspiring character and positivity now mixed with a new tonic of motivational revenge. Odom was exactly the player that the Lakers needed to take their squad from a Kobe show to an ensemble piece back when he was traded for Shaq. He even went from easing the Lakers post-Shaq hurt to proving that in the long run it was the more worthwhile move, but is it now? Now that those 2006 school adverts mocking him getting traded again have come true, Odom may be exactly the player this new winning Dallas team needs to help them towards their own dynasty.

Sure the Lakers are far from out of contention, just like Lamar they have a new motivation to win. Add a D12 or a CP3 and the numbers may add up to initialing some new success for these new Lakers. It’s just a real shame that a man that stuck by them and helped them along the way will not continue down the road with the purple and gold. Yes the Lakers can go on without Lamar Odom, but you can be sure they'll never be able to replace him.

BIRD WATCHING

2011-12-08T02:55:00.000-08:00

Larry's legendary plays "beyond" the arc.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Bird Watching-Larry's Legendary Plays "Beyond" the Arc

Larry Bird really did fly during his time with the Boston Celtics in the NBA. From behind the arc to down the floor, when Larry let the ball loose the Celtics would soar. Larry's legend never met a ball he wouldn't dive for or hoist in the air. That's why he is one of the greatest basketball players of all-time.

Still the French Lick was more than just a guy that was tasty with the 3-ball. Bird's highlights rise higher than just one play. That's why his No. 33 is in the rafters of the Boston Garden.

So let's look beyond the arc (but in a different way) and study some videotape to see for ourselves just how good he really was at all aspects of the game. Here are some favourite plays that are just hallmark beautiful basketball. The only rule here is no 3-pointer in the NBA before 1979. Let's take it a little inside. Roll film.

HONARABLE MENTION

Back in his prime Larry made too many legendary plays he was just too much, like when:

Playing the passing lanes against the Washington Bullets like a wizard Larry stole and loaded up a two handed dunk that shot down the D.C. squad.

Back in Washington a behind the back bullet pass found 'Tiny' Nate Archibald for the layup ... this New York playground legend was normally the giver not the receiver.

How about some more playground antics with Nate? Against the Pistons Larry once stole the ball and kept it inbounds by flicking it behind his back and head to Tiny Archibald who led the break and then returned the ball's favour to Larry for the two-handed flush.

Or how about when Bird posterized Caldwell Jones? He really flew and made peoples walls with that one.

Larry's always one to look after the ball and this normally results in him not looking after himself in the process. Whether it's falling into the stands or the blood, sweat and tears Bird will give anything to get the ball. Like his save and struggle for the ball against the Cavs, were it looked like he was struggling for a gun while taking a shot from some advertisement boards.

Still nothing compares to what comes next. Here's the "top 5." Run V.T.

5. BIRD TO PARISH

The Larry, Robert tandem worked so well together that "Bird to Parish" almost became a catchphrase for Celtic commentators. You may as well have pulled a cord out of the announcers backs every time Robert Parish pulled out some offence from a Larry Bird, behind-the-back, no-look or over the shoulder pass.

This between the legs beauty took Jack Sikma and his Milwaukee Bucks by surprise in the 1987 Eastern Conference Semi-finals. It should have come as no surprise as Larry was the master of this passing craft not named Earvin. He'd either wait until his defender would bite or pass out of incredible angels anyway, flicking the ball behind his head with his own "Magic." Here Larry's nutmeg leads to a perfect strike at the bucket by "big dunk" Rob.

4. SHOWING THE LAKERS SOME SHOWTIME MAGIC

When he came into the league, critics called Larry Bird slow. So how come it looks like he's running track here as he paces the break and leaves the Lakers in Hollywood as he and Robert Parish work the give and go once again at home in Boston during the NBA Finals?

This Game 7 statement was hammered home with rapid ferocity. The Garden erupted as Bird's aerial game bloomed and wilted the "Showtime" boys from L.A. Larry's play was so fast and furious that the rock didn't know what hit it. It looked like Larry was going to run out the gym or rip the rim off. If this was college game the Celtics would be cutting down the nets as Bird got his revenge on Johnson running his Lakers out the gym. Even Magic has to give it up on this video.

3. BACK OF THE BACKBOARD

Larry may have spent his career side by side in competition with Magic, but he had a few tricks to his trade to. Like this trick shot pulled out the bag. It's not just the likes of M.J. and Dr. J that can pull off shots like this. Larry belongs to this exclusive class with this behind the glass gem.

This no glass, touch of class was in a class of its own, going beyond the basketball playbooks, the physic textbooks and once again showing that when it comes to the art of shooting Larry takes everyone to school. This play against the Rockets really soared, nobody can dispute that Larry scored. Before he fell out of bounds, Bird kept it in play and in the net.

2. MID-AIR SWITCH.

More problems for Houston here with another touch of basketball wizardry out of Larry's bag of tricks. No wonder this is one of the NBA's greatest Playoff moments and the greatest play Red Auerbach said he ever saw. This jaw-dropping play could even cause the legendary coach to lose some ash off his iconic cigar. This smoking play was drawn up by the basketball Gods.

Larry may have missed at first but like Tracy McGrady's off the backboard All-Star dunk two decades later it all looked like an elaborate assist. Grabbing the rebound on the run and channelled Jordan and Julius once again by switching the ball between his hands in mid-air to avoid going out of bounds. Keeping the ball in play in sequence resulted in another beautiful play as Larry finger-rolled the peach to its home in the basket, a, la George Gervin. This truly was the stuff of legends.

1. STEALING VICTORY

Bird's hawk-eye focus was more gripping then anyone's in the crunch. Larry's basketball I.Q. made it look like he wasn't even thinking ... but he really was, one "Magic" step ahead of the rest. He made this play look like Isiah Thomas passed it to him. In the pivotal seconds of a crucial Eastern Conference Finals clash between the Detroit Pistons and legend's Celtics.

The Pistons had the last possession and play until Larry stole Thomas' inbounds pass, stopped his deflection from heading out of bounds, stopped again for a split-second that seemed liked an eternity, used that I.Q. and savvy "before the play" happens vision to reset the offence and then found Dennis Johnson for the game-winning lay-up. Like this perfect play Larry's legacy is another reason the NBA is referred to as 'where amazing happens'.It doesn't get much better than this.

COURTSIDE CONNECTION

2011-12-08T02:46:00.000-08:00

Top 5 Celebrity Fans.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Who says celebrities are fake? NBA T.V. catch glimpses of Hollywood's finest in the NBA stages around America, and they may love the game as much as we do. Still, how do we separate the real from the fake?

Famous or otherwise, every die-hard sports fan needs to be appreciated, from Bruce Willis to all the extras.

This is the definitive list of the most devoted famous fans.

HONOURABLE MENTION

From Billy Crystal (who got closer still by playing a referee in the film Forget Paris) to Michael Keaton and Sylvester Stallone to Andy Garcia, some of Hollywood's oldest basketball fans have held court for decades.

Speaking of Laker fans, Leonardo DiCaprio is so devoted he could soon take Departed co-star Jack Nicholson's courtside seat as well as his acting throne.

You can almost always find Denzel Washington courtside—"Cap on, brim bent, Denzel, every time," like rapper Drake says.

You can find Drake himself, his Young Money mentor, Lil' Wayne, and a whole host of hip-hop heavyweight, hoop heads who are never too far from the action. Rap moguls Diddy and Jermaine Dupri are all business when it comes to basketball.

Other musicians rock with basketball too. Who can forget the Lakers-mad Red Hot Chili Peppers, who once wrote a song called "Magic Johnson" and even performed a "Salute To Kareem".

When they're not working in their respective fields, sport stars Tiger Woods, Terrell Owens, David Beckham and others turn into fans.

Chris Rock and Larry David always like to raise a few laughs, even if it's at the referees' or players' expense.

Also who could forget how much the Kardashians keep up with basketball?

They do so as much as the most famous and important basketball fan, President Barack Obama.

5. EVA LONGORIA

Forget the Matt Barnes rumours or how things ended with Tony Parker. That has nothing to do with how Eva keeps it more real than most fans with her love for this game.

From wearing all the jerseys to hanging out with all the stars, like the Beckhams or Jamie Foxx, the Desperate Housewives star attends for more than show. You can tell she's a true fan by the way she talks the talk about how the NBA walks the walk.

Plus, she's by far the best looking thing courtside, sometimes taking attention off what happens on court.

You can't doubt her devotion, the only question that remains is: where will we see her seated once the new season rolls around?

4. JAY-Z

It doesn't get much better than courtside season tickets, right? WRONG! Jay-Z doesn't just watch his favourite team—he owns them.

He's done more than that, too. He used to just take Beyonce (who deserves an honourable fan mention) to every game, now he's taken his New Jersey Nets to all sorts of places. Brooklyn, to be exact.

Jay-Z has gone from being a major rapper to a major player in this basketball business, making major moves like taking his favourite team to the borough he grew up in.

Jay-Z's "Empire State Of Mind" shows he really does "Run This Town."

3. JIMMY GOLDSTEIN

How about Goldstein? A guy who has become a celebrity because of how many games he attends, and his strange outfits show how this NBA fan's wardrobe is really "where amazing happens." Jimmy's even made Lil' Wayne lyrics and probably could sell the hip-hop star a better seat or two.

From his fedora to his leather pants, you can find Goldstein outfitted at most games. He's a Lakers season ticket holder since the days of Wilt Chamberlain, and his house is even better than the Stilt's former home. I guess letting his house be filmed in movies like The Big Lebowski, real estate or whatever he does for work really does pay.

This guy flies around America like his name is Tony Stark during the playoffs to catch three games in a day and even goes to Clippers games. Now, that's dedication from a true iron man fan.

2. JACK NICHOLSON

Heeeeere's Johnny! If you don't know that Mr. Nicholson is fond of Mr. Laker, then you don't know Jack.

The sight of the legendary actor in his iconic shades at Staples Centre is one that the binoculars focus in on nearly as much as the players. The courtside seat that Jack built needs to have a statue there one day.

Jack Nicholson is in the game like EA Sports—every game and season, arguing with referees and cheering on players. The Hollywood heavyweight even works his films around his schedule...his Lakers schedule. Jack even travels to other cities to catch his beloved purple and gold.

Back in the eighties, he was in Boston more than when he filmed The Departed. The fans love him so much that even the Celtics made a playful T-shirt about him during one of the playoffs.

Nicholson wears the Lakers name with pride every time he plants himself down in his bleacher. They say fans are the extension of a team. Forget Lamar Odom for a second, Jack Nicholson is the Los Angeles Lakers' sixth man.

1. SPIKE LEE

The image of Spike Lee courtside at Madison Square Garden is almost iconic as the man himself. From trash talking with Reggie Miller to high fiving Patrick Ewing, from throwing his Larry Johnson L's up to throwing his hands in the air and burying his face when Jordan came to town and buried his team, Spike's been there for his New York Knicks.

Watching the games like he directs his movies, this focused fan is like a coach out there. If he did take the helm, he could write the happy ending these 'Bockers deserve.

But Lee looks even more like a player, draped in a jersey and so much other Knicks gear as if he was trying to sell merchandise.

Lee has stepped away from the Knicks to film Kobe Bryant at Staples for the documentary Kobe Doin' Work, a player who, like Mike, has repeatedly slaughtered Spike's beloved Knicks.

How's that for dedication to the game?

Spike may have spent some time with the purple and gold, but he knows to keep his friends close and his enemies closer. Spike Lee bleeds orange and blue through and through.

The back of this director's courtside chair should read "Spike." It's his.

CEDRIC THE ENTERTAINER

2011-11-21T17:29:00.000-08:00

(This article was meant to serve as an interview with Cedric Ceballos, but following his recent ill-health we post this to tribute and wish him the best. get well soon champ.)

Open your eyes to someone who really sees the game for what it is.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

All eyes are open and on the one man with his eyes closed. A man holding court on his own, decked out in purple on the decked out hardwood. Players and fans alike are pointing and whispering something like; 'he can't do it'! Before more doubt is shed the man starts running like he's heard the starters gun for the 100 metres, cradling the peach awkwardly and carefully like it was a full bucket of water. It all looks a little too awkward or party pinyata like until the man begins to soar. Part M.J/Dr. J, part American eagle outfitted in a black bandanna. What seems like a thousand camera flashbulbs pop, while the same number of mouths drop. SLAM DUNK! The man lands back down to earth with a chorus of champion cheers, while pulling the blindfold off his eyes. All Cedric Ceballos sees behind a sea of white teeth is nothing but tens.

Cedric Ceballos was a Slam Dunk winner for that legendary dunk, but this former star player of the NBA was much more than that. Can you count to 50? Ced can too, but with buckets. Hitting them high with more than his space jams, joining the half-Wilt, half-century and over club before he hit his 30's. He was part of the elite class of the 90's, arguably the greatest decade of NBA history. An academy of diversely talented players who would have been kings in another time, but like princes they were overshadowed by Michael.Ced could dunk like Mike, score like his fellow number 23 in some games and before his mid-nighties Lakers gave way to the next one in Kobe Bryant he was a potent scorer for the Los Angeles Lakers. He would have made for a great, much-needed then third shooting option behind Shaq and said Jordan mark two. His wonderful, aerially amazing wing game developed with the association's change towards that style of play.

With a 'tache and high-top fade this prototype basketball player defined the nighties and the changing of the guard...literally. Playing like a 2 at the small forward position, opening up the game like he did the court. L.A., Phoenix, Detroit, Dallas and Miami were all shown that this man from Hawaii was more than a journeyman. Hapoel Tel Aviv, BC Lokomotiv Mineralnye Vody, San Miguel Beermen and the ABA also benefited from all the talent of this all star. Ceballos saw it all and did it all and made a damn good career out of it.Still they took a man who once hit 50 like his name was Ghostface, two positions lower in the draft. Well like most late picks he made other teams realise they shouldn't have passed him up...early. Waking fans up with his dunks, leaving opponents sleeping on defence. Still Ceballos was more than just the wow factor of dunks and microwave plays (much love to Vinne Johnson), he had much more cooking.

Take off the blindfold and plug into youtube to spark off nostalgia and you can see that Ceballos could score like a pro. Leading the league in Field Goal Percentage in 92/93 with 57.6%. This Sun burnt brighter than his doubters, with a vibrancy that matched the jersey's he rocked in Arizona and California. In Los Angeles he even led all Lakers during the 1994/95 season with an average of 21.7 per, he really was an option. A year later, the second round was again on him as he led the Lakers with 21.2 per, including that career high game, which was the first time a Laker had hit 50 in 20 years. That was before James Worthy and that was before Kareem. That's truly magic, when you realise these legends had their offence served to them on a plate by the tricks of Earvin Johnson's trade. When he was hot, Cedric cooled teams off and put games in refrigerators faster than Chick could call it. Not only did he take Hearn's 'slam-dunk' phrase and own it, he gave his own name definition as well.

Today Cedric is ever the entertainer, still bringing a smile to peoples faces almost bigger than his. The Phoenix Suns passed the mic back to this player/rapper as he became the teams in-arena emcee in 2004, whilst also making the rounds on city radio and on the internet via his webcast, 'Nothin' but Net'. Of course a man who once released a hit single with West-Coast rap legend Warren G. ('Flow On') to go along with an album (' B-Ball's Best Kept Secret') was a natural at moving the crowd even when he wasn't regulating opponents. Following some assistant jobs Cedric this year has been playing with the 'USA Legends'. Forget the 'World All-Star Classic' this former player is making dates and moves like a Globetrotter. From the scoring to the showboating this man charms the crowd with his infectious character and irresistible charisma. Ceballos put in an MVP performance this June as his legends beat the Malaysian NBL All Star, despite Ced' lending his talents along with a Malaysian jersey to play for the opponents for a few minutes.

That's Cedric for your willing to play with anybody, or do anything just to entertain you. This guy is all-time, dedicated to the game and putting a smile on peoples faces in the name of fun. Seriously speaking though, Cedric still played like a pro, but one that wasn't afraid to let his love for the game and his moment show. After all isn't that what sport is all about? Anyone who disagrees can put the blindfold back on. In his NBA career Ceballos opened eyes and made those who loved the game look at Basketball his way, the entertaining way. He still does that today. Can you see?

NBA LOCKOUT: NO GAMES, NO GOLD

2011-11-21T02:59:00.000-08:00

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

It's a lockout. So, just when we thought the NBA season would finally begin, now it looks even more likely that there will be no NBA season this year at all. So what does this really mean apart from fewer games, less hope, more waiting, more players flocking overseas and more of the NBA being 'where nothing happens'?

This means Team USA won't be winning the Gold Medal in the 2012 Olympics.

Yep, London's calling and everyone but the NBA seem to be listening. If the National Basketball Association of America doesn't heed the call of the regular season soon, then first place, silver or bronze in next year's Olympic Games in London will look less likely the more the Twitter hash-tag "#noNBA" becomes a certainty.

The NBA has already shot itself in the sneaker by not having another game in England's capital this year, and just to think over this last year they've had two regular season games and a Los Angeles Lakers exhibition. Even with the forthcoming games, there's nothing quite like the NBA.
Another competitive exhibition would have been the perfect precursor to the Olympic games, increasing ticket sales and league passes. I thought it was about good business? I guess there really is nothing quite like the NBA.

We already know this lockout means more than three percent of BRI and the players and the owners. Fans and people's jobs are at stake, and basketball-wise this really does mean more than the NBA too. This lockout will undoubtedly effect how the American players play in next year's Olympics.

Put it this way: if there's no season, then players' form and continuity will be seriously effected. Sure, the time off will help these guys rest up better, but extended fishing trips never did the LA Clippers any good, plus pile on the extra stress of wondering when there next runs going to come from and how many of these players will be "in the game" come summer 2012?

This isn't EA sports; even the legends can't play like a video game all the time. They can't be switched on and off. Players need regular practice, in-game practice with and against the guys they'll be playing with and against. Sure, these days top players have so many other things going on that they will remain in shape and ready to go. It's not like Team USA are going to have a bunch of Shawn Kemps show up for camp, but maybe they'll have a few Antoine Walkers.

Even if the NBA season does play out, there's going to be a Stern-guaranteed 82 games and playoffs that could result in players becoming worn out, run down and too tired to light a flame in the Olympics. What happens if the Olympics start a day or two after the last game of the NBA Finals? Jet-lag, that's what. This delayed season needs to be cleared for take off before everything becomes canceled across the board.

OK, training abroad has its Olympic perks too. Now FIBA has cleared NBA players to make that lost money overseas, more playing time will help keep things fresh. Still, there's no place like home. Even if the American players can gain more of an insight into how other international teams and players play for their own national sides scouting report there are still problems. The increasing talented pool of foreign NBA players will flock overseas to play too, most going home.

Take Pau and Marc Gasol, for example. The Gasol brothers are fast becoming the most talented family unit in worldwide sports. Laker fans can only dream of what it would be like if these two Gasols gassed up their team instead of being traded for each other, but now they could actually see what it would be like.

If Spain's two favourite sons return to Barcelona to play together this season, then you'll have them joining forces and aligning with potential national side teammates and playing against even more in what you could basically call a season-long practice. Add a returning Ricky Rubio to the mix (he sure picked his time to finally come to Minnesota) and it'll all be over. Spain may as well move the World Cup aside and leave some room in their trophy cabinet.

It's no secret from Europe to Asia and even Australia that international basketball competition has been and continues to get better. Now, with this lockout, the more fellow countrymen play together the more cohesive they get, with the added bonus of being able to get more hands-on experience playing top American players. The stronger the continuity amongst fellow countrymen overseas, the weaker it will be for America and their chances, unless the league rolls the dice one more time.

That's why it's vital for American basketball to get back on track and on court before track and field becomes the only ground for medals in the Olympics. We've seen America drop the baton before; we can't see the NBA drop the ball on this one. Everyone expects gold. That's everyone in the U.S., that is.

If the NBA continues to be locked out, America may have to except something else, and they won't be able to use a game-clock, nightmare dream team or asterisk on this one. Team USA can still win and win big, but the flame might be fading as the NBA fans its games away from the supporters and players. Now who's going to carry the torch?

LA LAKERS-TOP 5 STAR PLAYER CAMEO'S

2011-11-16T05:30:00.001-08:00

Many NBA legends have graced the Los Angeles Lakers hardwood from the Forum to the STAPLES Centre. From Wilt to Shaq, Magic to Kobe, Mikan to Kareem and West to Gasol. Still, other stars have made cameo appearances for the purple and gold and we're not talking about Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio or the rest of Hollywood's finest. We're talking about the star, Hall of Fame players who have briefly passed through the Lakers locker rooms over their and the Lake Show's storied careers. So who is the best of the rest?

Who's A Star?

So who makes the cut? OK, here's the criteria. This is a list of the greatest NBA star players that have played for the Lakers briefly. We aren't looking at any purple and gold jersey's being raised to the rafters here. This is a list of the top legends that either played for L.A. for a short amount of time (23 games is enough), in a limited role (like a 'Sixth Man' position), or in the twilight of their careers (see above). This list gives a nod to those who may have made their hall of fame bread and butter elsewhere but still spread their NBA legacy with some time in the locker's of the Lakers.

Honarble Mention.

Honourable mentions must go out to more brief Laker players who we're legends in the NBA.

ADRIAN DANTLEY spent some of his early years showing the Lakers the potential that would lead to four straight seasons of 30 plus points per-game in the league. Laker purists will debate whether Dant' should of been given up for the Silk of Jaamal Wilkes for 'Showtime' reminiscent years to come.

SPENCER HAYWOOD was a bull in the ABA and had the big, built frontcout numbers to match in the NBA, but his career faded too soon and his time in L.A. came too late. If Michael Jordan was the Hulk Hogan of the league in the nighties.

MITCH RICHMOND was 'The Rock'. His playing time in his sole season with L.A. was chipped away but he was still solid. He earned a ring and the gracious last bucket of the Lakers championship and his career from Phil Jackson's gratitude.

JIM JACKSON was a scoring machine but he needed more time for more buckets in a solitary season that was much like Richmond's.

HORACE GRANT, goggles and all was one of the Chicago Bulls and the NBA's greatest defenders and field goal percentiles, that's why Phil Jackson put up with the injuries to employ Horace's services for another ring in 2001.

DEREK HARPER and RON HARPER shared more than a last name, they where two of the late eighties/nighties greatest, most underrated backcourt players and big-time team contributors.

ORLANDO WOOLRIDGE showed Chicago some air before Jordan laced them up and even showed another M.J. (Magic) some tricks of the 'Showtime' trade.

MAURICE LUCAS was a true talent and a true individual for every team he played for including the Lake Show. He was a genuine professional which makes his loss last year that much sadder. Rest in peace.

Number 5. DENNIS RODMAN

Dennis Rodman got ahead of himself when he selected his Laker jersey number as 72, he would never reach that number of games with this club, or a full season. In fact Dennis only recorded the same number on his former-teammate Jordan's jersey in games for L.A. Still Dennis made an impression even in just 23 games. The rebounding machine never bored us matching his hair colour to his jersey and bringing flamboyance and enthusiasm with his one of a kind personality. He missed practices but it got worse as he was waived goodbye only to send Dallas off the rails. Asking for his number to be '69' or '007' really was asking too much and that was goodbye to Rodman's career. Still the facts or the Hall this year couldn't deny the sheer talent of one of the greatest rebounders, big-men, defensive players and champions of all-time. Dennis didn't need 23 to show the Lakers that on-court he still caught more than just attention.

Number 4. CONNIE HAWKINS

What happened to Connie Hawkins career was criminal. A point shaving scandal led to years being razor-cut off his career. This man was supposed to figuratively and literally be in the same league as Jerry West and Elgin Baylor. Instead this great ended up having to wait his turn behind these two legends to play for the Lakers. Still this didn't stop the Hawk's own legend from soaring, dunking and rising like a Phoenix during his one of the best-ever time with the Suns. Still the unfair charges burnt him and charged it all to the good of the game also. The only time Connie should have been embarrassed was when acoustic singer Paul Simon beat him on one-one-one on 'Saturday Night Live'. Besides that this ABA and NYC playground icon should have held court on the NBA before 28, but another court put his sneakers in concrete.

Number 3. BOB McADOO

Mac's All-Star, all-legend career saw him be a superstar journeyman in the NBA and his career travels even took him to Italy for seven years. Wherever Bob laid his hat, he laid down baskets too making scoring his home. By the time McAdoo landed in L.A. he was in the Sixth Man territory of his career. Still like Lamar Odom this big man was huge for the star-studded Lakers in fitting their fingers with two-more championship rings. Mac wasn't just a fan-favourite he was loved by Magic and all his teammates in the showtime hat. Bob brought as much positivity as he I'd buckets to the Lakers. The contagious enthusiasm over-flowed making him a vital energy piece to the core of showtimes gold rush.

Number 2. GARY PAYTON

'The Glove' fit the Lakers well, even if it was for just a year. Even if the Kobe, Karl, Shaq and Gary, 'Dream Team', 'L.A. Beatles' combo only performed for one sold-out year, it was still something special and started a revolution of a transaction movement in the NBA that still results in major decisions to this day. Let's not talk trash, G.P. brought more than his mouth to the Lakers superstar clinic. The Lakers dream dynasty may have been stopped by the motoring Pistons of Detroit but in manning the Lakers offence Payton still had a good year ending the teams tired, years in the making quest for a true Point Guard (no offence to Derek Fisher's incredible performances). Gary still played like an All-Star with his trademark tougher than leather, glove defence to go with his middle of the range offensive set and his skills in service. As the Lakers took silver that year Payton was one of their best floormen even making up the big numbers and plays when Shaq and Malone we're injured our Kobe was off the floor and on a different court. Even in the Shaq/Kobe break-up and eventual 'death of a dynasty' Payton stood by the Lakers and the problems by pledging unity and another year. Although not many others followed suit and Gary was then dealt to Boston to eventually end up reunited with Shaq in Miami this was another hallmark moment from a Hall of Fame career. Just like his Seattle days this is why Gary Payton is a basketball legend of supersonic proportions.

Number 1. KARL MALONE

The Mailman's final NBA delivery with the Lakers may have ended with a fractured friendship with Kobe and an even worse knee, but it was all love, healthy and happy to begin with. As Malone joined Gary Payton and history by holding a surfboard for the ultimate Californian beach boy party the good vibrations were clear. Malone manned the Power Forward boards in L.A. While surfing above the Western Conference waves of competition. Sure the Malone, Payton, O'Neal and Bryant foursome was incredible but the frontcout tandem of the 'Diesel' and the 'Mailman' was a monster. With the type of fire and fuel that could gas up and burn any opponent, all whilst making deliveries that even the top twin tandem of David Robinson and Tim Duncan couldn't handle. The muscle-bound Malone was so fit, it was thought this younger than his years player could perform ahead of his time. If only it wasn't for him going down on one knee with an engagement of injury and matrimony of retirement.

LET'S GO LAKERS

2011-11-05T19:07:00.001-07:00

7 Bold Predictions for the 2011/2012 Season.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

(Originally published by 'Bleacher Report' http://bleacherreport.com/articles/923103-los-angeles-lakers-7-bold-predictions-for-the-2011-12-season-if-it-ever-starts)

The locked out NBA is a mess right now.

The knocked-out, 2010 NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers aren't looking their prettiest either, from losing their throne, their zen and possibly (like every other team) their season.

Still, if we actually do end up having a season this year, what will be made of one of the NBA's most popular franchises?

1. Mike Brown Will Make the Lake Show Run

OK, so Phil Jackson may have walked to the dismay and despair of many Lakers fans, but they must accept that Mike Brown is running things...and run things he will.

He's still receiving ringing, welcoming endorsements from Snoop Dogg (via Twitter) to Kobe Bryant (finally). Here's why: This former coach of the year almost took the wine and gold of Cleveland to champagne and championship gold, all whilst bringing the best out of LeBron. Now that's a real Cavalier.

This former Cleveland Brown will run his players like this was the NFL, opening up doors, lanes and roster spots for the slashers like Matt Barnes and Devin Ebanks. Everyone will get some burn and, of course, Kobe will thrive. Now if only he can convince Shannon Brown to come back.

2. World Peace Will Outsell Kobe

Ron Artest, excuse me, Metta World Peace's popularity is bigger than ever right now. How big? Well, put it this way: Fans are flocking to and not from their seats when he's in arenas these days.

Everything is on the up and up, from Metta's mental peace of mind to his extra-curricular activities (from 'Dancing With The Stars' to even more comedy). So surely once the lockout ends and the league and its business opens back up, Metta's new jerseys will sell with the best of them.

This isn't like keeping up with Artest's number changes. The new vests adorned with Metta's new, court-approved (legal and hardwood) surname will be a favorite for collectors and statement makers worldwide.

Everyone's going to want 'World Peace' on the back of their jerseys. Besides, hasn't everyone already bought their Kobe uniforms?

3. The Gasol Brothers Will Battle Like Spanish Bulls

Pau Gasol, for a decade now, has been one of the best European talents, if not best all-around players, in the league. But since the Beijing Olympics almost four years back, his international teammate, fellow countryman and younger brother has crept up on him in the family competition ranks.

Marc Gasol was actually a Lakers draft choice who was involved in the blockbuster Pau power trade and now Marc is making his mark on a Memphis Grizzlies team that showed the San Antonio Spurs and the league's best that they are no joke.

Lakers fans can only imagine how good it would be to have the two brothers side by side in the purple and gold frontcourt. Wonder is all they can do now, however, as Marc and Memphis are growing into contenders for the future. This could make for some incredible, 'where amazing happens' playoff battles between the Gasol boys and some great NBA side-stories.

This, of course, is lockout pending. These brothers could end up teammates again back in Spain and although that would be good to see, we have the Olympics for that. These two bullfighters belong back in the NBA ring.

4. Derek Fisher Will Save L.A. Right After Saving the League in the Clutch

The NBA is in big trouble right now and the only man who can save it is the only man who can save the Lakers. No we're not talking about Robert Horry.

We're talking about 'the Fish that saved L.A.,' 'Mr. 0.4,' 'Mr. Big Shot 2.' We're talking about Derek Fisher.

Sure 0.0 has ticked on the regular season clock and now games are being cancelled like bad TV shows. So who's watching and who's going to do something about this? Derek that's who.

The president of the NBA Players Association is looking to do the right thing and elect change. If anyone can do it he can. He has a good relationship with his peers and owners alike and we're confident he can salvage some of the season. Just in time for him to hit some clutch buckets that will help keep the Lakers going too.

5. Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom Will Star

Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom are already big in L.A. even without Kareems or Kardashians in their corners. One of the last true centers and last year's 'Sixth Man of the Year' are even more popular beyond the Lakers.

This could be the breakout year where both guys breakdown more doors and not in the form of trading places for Dwight Howard. Drew's knee as well as the lockout will be a factor, but that aside, Bynum could further develop into one of the best players in the league, not just one of the best centers.

Even though he's got a lot of guys like Kobe standing in his spotlight, he's got the post skills to be one of the greats of this game.

Speaking of skills, the Earvin 'Magic' Johnson like all-around play of Lamar Odom should finally see him achieve All-Star status. Sure, people have been saying this for years, while Lamar even shaved it into his head, but by the looks and the awards of things, the Association is starting to recognize. It's time for the overdue to come true. This deserves to be a career year for two real stars.

6. The Walton's Family Legacy Will Follow a Similar Trend

The Walton family is too nice to finish last. Still, recent reports have surfaced that Lakers favourite Luke Walton may retire due to a list of ailments longer than his father's range of vocabulary. Sound familiar? Luke's dad Bill's career was also cut short by injury. Now, like father like son, another promising, skillful player could be lost to nostalgia, and what could have been.

Soon Lakers fans may be screaming 'Noooo' instead of 'Luuuuke'. It really will sound like boo's if one of the Lakers family fond members has to divorce himself from the game.

Still, no matter the time spent on court, just like Daddy, this Lakers son's talent will always speak for itself. Also, the precision, perfect passer was already looking to take his smarts to coaching during the lockout.

Now that could make for one hell of a second career. His father knows that hanging up the sneakers doesn't mean lacing up your career.

7. Fans Will Finally Get What They Want as Kobe vs. LeBron Will Go to the Finals

Dirk and Dallas may have shown L.A., Miami and the rest of the league who the real Mavericks are last season, but don't think that this has cooled things off in Florida and California.

The anticipation of a Kobe/LeBron NBA Finals matchup is heating up. The fans are ready like the Nike puppet commercials, but who's pulling the strings? Rumors floated around last year that the NBA was bored with the idea of another Lakers/Celtics classic storied clash, but what about the ultimate post-Jordan battle for the throne.

It doesn't matter that, even though Kobe's the greatest since M.J., LeBron's the better player these days. James will not truly be crowned King until he climbs ladders above the Mamba.

The debate to who's best will not be settled until one ultimately wins by beating the other. That's why we need a Lakers vs. Heat, Kobe vs. LeBron NBA Finals whilst we still can.

It will happen. You think Kobe's going to lay down after last season? So the question is: Who will come out victorious?

To answer that you will just have to wait and see.

FRESH OUT THE BOX: FOOT LOCKER-HOUSE OF HOOPS, London, England.

2011-10-31T17:01:00.000-07:00

'Fresh Out The Box' is a new feature that looks at kicks, clothing, shops and everything accessorizing to Basketball.

Who says the city of London, England knows nothing about the sport of Basketball? Luol Deng, one of the Chicago Bulls and the NBA's best players was raised here, while the city hosts an official NBA game a year (if not two (lockouts pending)). This town has even built an incredible bball stadium for next years 2012 Olympic Games. Still when this Lemon Meringue like arena is torn down by pitch forks and what not after closing ceremony other peach and basket traditions will still stand in London.

One being the House Of Hoops tucked underneath Bond Street's Foot Locker. Lace up your sneaks because this place isn't too far a walk from the big top attraction of London that is Oxford Circus. This place is definitely worth a look and shop for hoop heads. There aren't too many of these exclusive Nike temple, 'House Of Hoops' (Paris, Barcelona and America hold a few) and there aren't too many as good as this. Upstairs in this big Foot Locker is plenty of great things, even some of those NBA jersey's that are cheaper but less authentic than your swingman favourites. Still it's down the escalator where court is held.

For Basketball fans it may as well be a stairway to heaven as this underground, exclusive homage to hoops is a haven for all purists away from the Football and other sports not Basketball dominated U.K. Scene. Decked out in mahogany like a Eric B. & Rakim or Fugees classic this place really is a hardwood classic with all the latest and greatest trainers, T-shirts and other apparel that is current and collectible from Kobe tee's to the new LeBron's.

It's all here and known by the friendly staff that are as polite as they are in the game like EA. This coolly lit place even has some great décor in the form of murals of the greats from Kobe to M.J. It all just looks so right and everyone's been here. Snoop Dogg, LeBron, Deron, even Ashton Kutcher...excuse me Kyle Korver. Now if it's good enough for them, it's certainly the place to be. In the game and in the house in the name of hoops, Foot Locker's sister store has it on lock. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

THE FINALS FIX

2011-10-23T04:02:00.001-07:00

Recapping this years NBA Finals for those lockout blues.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

GAME 1: MIAMI HEAT 92-84 DALLAS MAVERICKS

Basketball's promised land made good on it's guarantee to expect amazing last night as the Miami Heat and Dallas Mavericks started what looks to be a thrilling end to an incredible season. Still the series isn't over yet even though Miami took control and a one-zip lead. 24 points from the King and a 92-84 win sealed the first NBA Finals win for LeBron James. "Feels good because it's the first game and we played well as a team,'' 'Bron told press postgame,"We've got a lot of work to do. ... That's one in the books. We're excited about this game. Tomorrow we prepare for Game 2, and I see ways we can get better.'' Wade had 22 points, while Dirk Nowitzki had 27, but his Mavericks team had their lowest point output in this years playoffs on a postseason low 37%. Still Miami also looked a little weak offensively. 39 percent shooting being their second-worst number for that category in the playoffs.

After the game Dirk was upbeat with the press and his teams chances saying; "You can't get down with a loss. You've got to come back strong on Thursday. I've said it a couple times in this playoff run, if you're the road team, you're happy with a split. So we've got another opportunity on Thursday to get one. Obviously, we don't want to go home down 0-2.'' As LeBron and Wade closed the game out like a pair of superheroes, nicknames of 'Batman & Robin' began re-surfacing by word of mouth and Tweet. Wade was instrumental also flashing inspiration into his teammates before the tip with cries of, "Don't say, 'I wish I woulda.'" If the Heat continue this passion and play they'll have nothing to regret.

GAME 2: MIAMI HEAT 93-95 DALLAS MAVERICKS

And then it was all tied. The Dallas Mavericks proved it doesn't matter which American Airlines arena they are in as they are heading back home to Dallas with an advantage in this already epic Finals series. Dirk, his bum left hand and the down-and-almost-out Dallas Mavericks rallied from 15 down to beat the Heat 95-93 in Miami. "You can just sense it in us that we weren't going to give up, we were going to be resilient,'' bench heater Jason Terry told press afterwards. "Definitely a huge comeback for us and we never gave up, and that was big,'' Dirk said following his 24 points and last 9 points of the Mavericks through his injury pain. Wade had 36 for Miami while LeBron played the Robin role last night with 20, still without the 'W' it meant little. Dallas where too big for them in the final quarter as they go forth to Texas with a clean slate.

The consistent star Shawn Marion had 20 and said it best post-game, "The game is over when the final buzzer rings.'' Maybe this comment and Mavs win was fuelled by their dislike of Wade and James early celebrations when Dwyane flashed the goose neck on a follow through after a big three. Dallas didn't like this horse-play but the King insists he and his men weren't acting like animals. "There was no celebration at all, I was excited about the fact that he hit a big shot and we went up 15.'' This fun Miami team are just having fun in this entertaining series they don't need Samuel L. Jackson's 'Coach Carter' to teach them a lesson but perhaps they need a new set of X and O's for Game 3. Sunday and Dallas awaits.

GAME 3: DALLAS MAVERICKS 86-88 MIAMI HEAT

After two games there was nothing between them. After three only two points separated them. With the series standing at 1-1, you knew these two tied-together teams where going to suffer a bad break-up to determine which side where to take command of this series. It was Miami however who owned the other American Airlines Arena in Dallas like it was their own, with an emotional final few seconds that broke these Maverick hearts...hard. Thanks to some forward thinking from Bosh's clutch jumper to Haslem's D on Dirk, the Heat burnt Dallas, 88-86 at the buzzer to ring out a 2-1 series lead. D-Wade doubled up with 29 points and 11 rebounds calling the game a "total win" for his team. LeBron also had 17, while an Udonis pestered Nowitzki had 34 for the man-handled Maverick's who went cold to the Heat's fire in the fourth. The Heat have set the tone and temperature with a huge away win in the D that takes away Dallas' home-court advantage. To boot Miami really look to have made their stamp on the series as ever since the playoffs 2-3-2 was introduced in 1985 all the teams who have won Game 3 in the Finals have eventually won the Championship. The odds are stacked in Miami's favour.

Looks like the Heat have already got revenge for Dallas' big win in Miami. With both teams still looking evenly matched and drawing blood however, (see Chris Bosh's eye (he'll be fine by the way)) just like the Lakers/Celtics last year this is already one hell of a series. These competitive, none clear-cut series' make for some great, guessing and none dynasty-routine-formality basketball. Still Miami's Wade knows his pick and prediction for the 'chip; " I believe in this team. If anyone can do it, I believe we can.'' "Emotional game, fought back, and to fall short at the end is tough,'' lamented Dirk Nowitzki who's last second passes and shots where disrupted by a passionately screaming Haslem who is definitely, well and truly back. Miami right now are looking magnificent but still Dallas aren't looking defeated. They just need a little something extra. As Kidd said best; "We have to have somebody step up besides Dirk." This aint child's play. This is the NBA Finals. Chess not checkers. Now we anticipate the Maverick's next move. Check.

GAME 4: DALLAS MAVERICKS 86-83 MIAMI HEAT

Game 4 is always a pivotal game in a Finals or Playoff series, whether the games are heading towards a clean sweep or standing at 2-1. A 2-1 lead or trail leads to a crucial fourth game. Now NBA Finals favourites Miami Heat led the Dallas Mavericks two games to one with hopes to keep this series under five games like the rest of their playoffs record. Win and they would have Dallas by the Mavericks and an elimination Game 5. Still Dirk and his boys had other ideas, as they made the tie and this thing a series with a 86-83 win spurred by a 29-1 run in the fourth quarter led by an ailing but never failing Nowitzki who had 10 of his 21 to close out the game and the Heat. "Just battle it out,'' was Dirk's game-plan as he was coming down with injury and flu. "This is the finals. You have to go out there and compete and try your best for your team. So that's what I did," and boy did he, laying up in the clutch and laying down Miami with it all laid out on the floor. Everyone marvelled at Dirk's own 'flu game' (even though it still wasn't as cold as Jordan's). "The average person, you know, has sick days and battling 100-something, it's just tough to get out of bed,'' Tyson Chandler remarked with astonishment. "This guy is playing against the best athletes in the world.''

One of the best athletes in the world was having an unhealthy night however as Miami's LeBron James only managed 8 points, a playoff low that ended a run of 433 consecutive games in double figures. Now that's a lot of regular seasons and deep playoff runs. Despite having 9 rebounds and 7 assists James was his harshest critic giving the press and himself these choice words; "I've got to do a better job of being more assertive offensively.'' Still Wade had 32 and Bosh 24 points. The Heat know now however that the series is wide open. "This series is a jump ball,'' coach Erik Spoelstra of the Heat theorised. "These guys live for these type of moments. It's about execution and disposition in the fourth quarter, being able to close out. We have a golden opportunity in the next game.''

The Heat better make good on their opportunity and strike gold looking for that Larry O'Brien shine as there wasn't many silver linings to take from this game. Still that doesn't mean the clouds have cleared for Dallas, both teams still look like they have the ability to reign supreme. It was a good job the Mavs got this game under their belt as no team has ever come back from a 3-1 deficit. Now with the series level whoever takes the next crucial game will set the tone for the end of the series, putting the other on the elimination ropes with only a game left for the championship after that. It will be huge if the Maverick's do this in Dallas as they have never lead this finals series, still the Miami Heat look to regain the tempo and control of this tight series as the final game/s will be played out in South Beach. Who will win isn't the biggest question, the main one is will this epic go the full seven games?

GAME 5: DALLAS MAVERICKS 112-103 MIAMI HEAT

Those in South Beach working on printing T-shirts and putting balloons in the Florida American Airlines Arena better stop what they're doing. The Heat are heading back to Miami on the brink of elimination and not on the cusp of a championship as everyone wearing white, except the Dallas Mavericks thought. Winning 112-103 the Dallas Mavs and their deafening arena silenced everyone wearing Miami colours, painting the series with numbers of 3 games to 2. If Game 4 was pivotal, then Game 5 was crucial as it was Dallas who took the lead and control of the series for the first time in the Finals. That very fact could very well be a determining, defining factor in this series. Sure this series is going back to Miami for the final game(s), but the Mavericks have a two game cushion to win the championship and haven't taken advantage of comfort before (see Lakers; Los Angeles). The Mavericks have also shown that home-court advantage isn't much of a factor as they look to finish and cool off the Heat in South Beach.

We said that the Heat's chance was to keep it under 5 games but if this series went to 7 then nobody could close out Dallas. This is because these Maverick's have the play through anything (it aint 'Noringski' it's 'NoQuitzki'), one-of-the-best-to-ever-do-it (championship or not, it's time we all recognised) Dirk Nowitzki and his Game 5 29 points. It's also because Miami don't have 'Mr 4th Quarter', Jason Terry who welcomed Miami to a rain storm in buckets to finish off the game. His 21 points, to go along with his 'partner in pine', super-sub Jose Barea's 17 points showed Miami that the Mavs microwaves had the real heat. With Dallas shooting the three-point lights out they showed that if they shoot like this nobody can beat them, in any period.

It gets worse for Miami as the story coming out of Dallas is not 'who shot J.R.'? But who took LeBron'? His form has been up and down and in and out of the line-up as much as Dwyane Wade who has injured his hip after colliding with Brian Cardinal. Still mark these words and any coming out of Miami. LeBron, Dwyane and the Heat are far from done and this series is far from over. "There's really nothing to celebrate," Dirk told press. Jason Terry and the Mavs shouldn't pop the 'Dallas' on their jersey's yet. An 'American Airlines' jet plane is going to take them to Miami, where it's the Heats court. Standby.

GAME 6: DALLAS MAVERICKS 105-95 MIAMI HEAT

'Dear Dirk', you and Dallas are out 2011 NBA Champion. 'Congrats Mavs'. Your not just the top trends on Twitter, your also starting a new one in this league. Fashioning victory from the basic fabrics of a good all round team game. Now that's the way things should be. Now that's Basketball. It was a tightly crammed 6 games between the East and West's best teams in the NBA but I guess in the end Dallas studied harder for the Finals. Not that Miami's incredible team didn't work hard and play well together but in the end those Mavericks cooled down the Heat in their 'White Hot' American Airlines Arena. Finally exorcising their 2006 demons, the Mavericks avenged that years Finals loss to Wade and the Heat by flipping the script and writing them off, beating them five years later. "I really still can't believe it," the MVP of the Finals; Dirk Nowitzki told press as his 21 points helped his Texan team triumph. Jason Terry had a huge 27 points along with Dirk as the only surviving Maverick from the '06 heartbreak. "We got vindication," Terry remarked proving that revenge is a dish to him on the perimeter, best served with his hot, off the bench, microwave streak shooting. Following their respective performances, Dirk goes down as one of the NBA's best all-time players, now becoming a winner, while Jason will go down in history as a Playoff legend, a-la-Derek Fisher.

This meeting with the NBA's good Ol' friend Larry (O'Brien not Bird, (but Dirk's certainly familiar to the latter also)) marks and inscribes the first-time Dallas have had their names etched on an NBA Championship trophy. It also rings the first championship band for valuable veteran and star-player Jason Kidd, who has been so near but so far before and now has no intentions of retiring his big, amazing, 38 year old contributions. Miami however, have had a magnificent year as the boss of Florida-like Rick Ross-despite critical comments and falling short on their championship promise. In their last stand, LeBron James had 21 points, while Bosh had 19, Mario Chalmers 18 and D-Wade tallied 17 for the winding down East champs and Finals runner up. After his Cleveland chance in 2007, this Finals also registers the second time LeBron James reached the promised land only to break, but still there is no need to worry. Dirk and Dallas have been here before on the losing end, they know all too well what it's like. It just takes time and patience to grow a champion. This is only this new Heat teams first year of conception and they've already become a contender. As Lil' Wayne once said, "don't worry LeBron, get em' next year". This saying from Weezy's 2009 song about Kobe Bryant really has meaning now. Still despite Miami's best efforts it was the Mavericks who really "earned" this one as Heat coach Erik Spoelstra can attest. "We worked so hard and so long for it," Nowitzki added making it clear that he had a whole team full of MVP's, from Chandler to Barea.

The Maverick, Dallas coach Rick Carlisle also called his band of brothers "a true team", adding "This is an old bunch. We don't run fast or jump high. These guys had each other's backs. We played the right way. We trusted the pass. This is a phenomenal thing for the city of Dallas." Now this terrific, Texan town won't just be celebrated for Football. As this basketball team has really tipped their way to the top of this association ever since Mark Cuban came in and took the stetson off the team logo. Now the devout Maverick fan and outrageously dedicated owner can never be doubted for his heart and dedication to the team he supports and owns with everything he has. "I could care less about the Heat," Cuban told press ready to light up his own victory cigar. This year marked an incredible year for NBA Basketball with an incredible bunch of evenly matched teams. From last years champion Los Angeles Lakers to the regular season leading San Antonio Spurs. This was all capped off by a blood, for blood, bucket, for bucket, back-and-forth, evenly matched Finals. If some things went the other way it could have very well have been a Miami hot -streak, leading to a big-three championship parade, but alas as LeBron lamented, "right now isn't the time." Even Dallas coach Rick Carlisle knows how close it was and how competitive his competition was stating; "Their time will come." Still everyone knows that as Carlisle continued; "But now, it's our time". Dallas have set the clock and moved the hands of basketball time to their present direction. You know what time it is. Time to say congratulations to the champs. Well done 'Big D'. Dirk and Dallas have done it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

DVD REVIEW: JUST WRIGHT

2011-10-23T03:53:00.000-07:00

3/5

PG, 100 Minutes. Starring Queen Latifah, Common, Paula Patton, James Pickens Jr, Phylicia Rashad, Pam Grier, Laz Alonso, Mehcad Brooks, Michael Landes, Dwight Howard, Dwyane Wade, Rashard Lewis. Director: Sanaa Hamri

Two Hip-Hop legends act 'Wright'.

Queen Latifah and Common have made a name for themselves in music and movies over the years. Latifah became one of the first female rap superstars with albums like 'All Hail The Queen' in the 80's and she's been acting for decades. Common has cemented his reputation as one of the best socially conscious rappers around today with albums like 'Be' and 'Finding Forever'. He has also forged himself a decent film career over the last couple of years with credits including 'American Gangster', 'Terminator Salvation' and much more. After years of hard work in both fields the Queen and the man with Common Sense take the lead in a romantic comedy that is 'Forget Paris' meets 'Love & Basketball'.

Back when Common was younger he used to be the kid that mopped up sweat at Chicago Bulls games well in 'Just Wright' Common gets even closer to the stars, living (at least while filming) every rappers dream of becoming an NBA player. Common even holds his own as Scott McKnight even if it does look like he had a little 'assist' on those dunks. This really does seem like a dream world however as the New Jersey Nets in this movie are a contender. Someone should call owner Jay-Z because truthfully he'd like a baller like Common Sense.

So McKnight is the talk of New York, New Jersey and the NBA. Every player wants to play like him and every woman wants to play with him including Latifah's physical therapist Deborah Wright and her cousin played by Mrs. Robin Thicke, Paula Patton (who really looks and sounds like she could be related to Alicia Keys). After a game Latifah and Common hit it off in a petrol station, but after a party it's Patton who makes her mark on the ballplayer and they start a relationship. Months later McKnight goes down with a potentially career ending knee injury and some of the love for this All-Star becomes all-sour and turns to doubt. After Patton has her worries and concerns (especially concerning McKnights 'amazing' new personal trainer, where she doesn't want amazing to happen) she asks for her cousins to step in and from there it seems that Wright was just what the doctor ordered.

This film is as sharp as these rappers skills on the microphone. The movie catches New York in summer as perfectly as 'Hitch' did further making this film a feel good affair of sorts. It looks as cool as a behind the back pass and the supporting cast are a slam dunk. From 'Greys Anatomy' favourite James Pickens Jr to Phylicia Rashad aka Clair Huxtable (you've gotta love that 'Cosby Show' nostalgia) to Pam Grier (It looks like it's been a long time since 'Foxy Brown'). There are even great cameo appearances from a host of NBA players including the made for camera Dwight Howard and Miami Heat leading man Dwyane Wade. The stars of the NBA prove they can read lines as good as they can read plays and they also help ensure the basketball action is as authentic as it's ever been on screen (even if most of the other players are extras with questionable names like 'Taller').

Lil Bow Wows performance in 'Like Mike' has to bow down to the exceptional performance of fellow MC Common who shows he can read screens as good as he can read lines and write rhymes. Let's not forget the star of this show Queen Latifah however who further expands her impressive filmography further than her discography. Overall this film is feel good, funny, exciting, romantic and a winner complete with a soundtrack that hits the high score. 'Just Wright' lives up to it's name it goes down like the third bowl of porridge. A hot movie that makes a steal of a Friday night. TIM DAVID HARVEY

MR. INTERNATIONAL

2011-10-21T03:07:00.001-07:00

All Around The Kob'.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY.

It all revolves around Kob'. Everything does. The future of the NBA, the future of basketball in the world. Who's watching and who's not. It all turns with Kobe Bryant. ESPN recently ranked him number 7 on a list of top players but surely we can take it higher than that? This man means more than that.

Right now Kobe is more than just big in Japan. From being made in China to showing his heart in Seoul this Summer's tour of Asia took him to another continent, but took his status and stock out this world. Now in November Kobe could follow his dreams and the footsteps of his father Joe 'Jellybean' Bryant and play in Italy.

Now what could this mean? Sure European side Virtus Bologna have not signed Kobe this month but that doesn't mean they won't, just like the fact that the NBA owners and players may meet again this week but that doesn't mean the lockout will be resolved...does it? This Christmas its very likely there won't be any NBA TV under our tree and that makes it even more likely that Kobe will be saying 'ciao' to California for the holidays.

Kobe could make Virtus Bologna, virtually the biggest team in the world if he suits up for them, but the shirts and ties of the NBA will still make money off of this. The more international exposure the biggest Basketball league in the world gets then the more fans from around the globe they'll draw in. Still what Kobe does for ball in Italy could be the biggest thing anyone's done for that country since the top sportsmen that are more accustomed to kicking the ball have.

Kobe could 'Bend it like Beckham' and change the game like his fellow L.A. friend did but in the opposite direction. Making Basketball more popular in the Soccer dominated Europe like David made Soccer more popular in a Basketball first America. Kobe already made more Asian Basketball fans like his name was Yao Ming and now the rest of the world is his for the taking. This could be his making.

His popularity is better than ever, despite the ESPN rank and until LeBron rips the rings off his finger he is the greatest player in the league for all sorts of reasons. The NBA may make more money off him when he becomes exported (and in some ways exploited) abroad but as the owners look shallow in this lockout Bryant will be the more genuinely better off for it.

Think about it the Black Mamba is even digging deeper into his pockets to lend money to his fellow players and peers during this trying time. Now that's no snake. That's a man building ladders while the board plays games. It's clear Bryant's in it for more than the money. He really loves this game. As the NBA becomes a place where nothing happens, Kobe shows us amazing and that this game of basketball right now is his.

MR. BIG SHOT

2011-10-16T08:16:00.000-07:00

Bob's greatest hits.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

"Clutch means me getting it done". Robert Horry.

Houston Rockets vs Orlando Magic (June 11, 1995-NBA Finals, Game 3)

The ball is inbounded to Hakeem Olaujawon deep in the post, screens are being set, late fourth quarter nerves are running and Shaq is trying to stop dreams from coming true, giving Houston more problems than Apollo 13. Still it's Hakeem and the Rocket's lucky day as the centre finds a teammate behind the arc with a trademark, beautiful pass. The player receiving the ball hits for three over top D man Horace Grant, fogging his goggles and making the home Houston fans rub their eyes with disbelief, making the Magic disappear with an ace in the hole play pulled from his bag of tricks. It's a dagger basket by a young Robert Horry.

They left him open to shoot all day. They didn't think he had what it took. They doubted him. They disregarded him. The former Alabama standout who played in the shadow of Latrell Sprewell brought it all to the light however with a shot that sank like the sun at dusk. Years before he helped Shaq drink championship champagne he made him taste bitter defeat. Before he made everything in his career right, he proved everyone wrong. While everyone though he was just a Will Smith lookalike with a Fresh Prince fade he threw the competition out the door like Jazzy Jeff. ARGH! Opposing fans would scream as all their hopes and dreams were in for a rude-Robert awakening. The number 2-5 was a man that made Houston's second five so strong, but after two big shots and two championship ring Horry was on the move further Northwest. Although his time in Phoenix, wasn't his best (especially with Danny Ainge) Rob never threw the towel in, he kept playing hard until Hollywood called with a script idea that was about to re-write history.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Philadelphia 76ers (June 10, 2001-NBA Finals, Game 3)

With the NBA Finals tied at one game apiece there is not much between the Goliath Los Angeles Lakers and the David, underdog, Philadelphia 76ers. There isn't even any love, definitely no brotherly love in Philly for hometown boy Kobe Bryant as he dribbles the ball up court to a chorus of boos. The ball ends up in the hands of his assistant on-court Brian Shaw who quarterbacks a great heave to Robert Horry in the corner, who is all alone (Aaron Mckie is too late to reach the Laker jersey in the corner, almost as late as he was to eventually don one in the twilight of his career). Horry hoists up his third triple of the game and as it hits twine and parquet. Rob breaks the back of the Sixers, and silences the fans pumping his fists with the passion that's just left the First Union crowd. This is his time, this is his moment. This is his game.

The Lakers gave up serious swingman talent Cedric Ceballos in order to get Robert, but in return Horry answered the call and gave everything he had to a team that became more with his addition. He had to give up the number 25 because of retired Laker legend Gail Goodrich, but Horry's legacy in La, La, Lakerland may one day result in his number 5 jersey being raised to the rafters too. This player played his part and role in Hollywood better than most stars but this was no act, Bob was the genuine article. This fourth quarter moment maker was not lazy at other moments in the game. He just liked to wait for the last scene to draw the final curtain...and boy did he draw. This Western assassin had a lot of bullets in his gun. Give him just a second to aim a shot and...BANG!

Los Angeles Lakers vs Portland Trailblazers (April 28, 2002-Western Conference First Round, Game 3)

We're in the Rose Garden and the Los Angeles Lakers are about to be pricked by the blooming, blazing hometown Portland team out in Oregon. So Bryant sets a trail driving against the self-dubbed 'Kobe-Stopper' Ruben Patterson, taking him and what seems like the rest of the Trailblazers side into the paint. He furiously kicks the ball out to the three-point line on his right to Robert Horry who calmly catches the peach, sets it on it's seams, rises and drains the clutch three with just two seconds left like he had all the time in the world.

Three years, three trophies and three-balls aplenty Horry kept repeating like episodes of 'Scrubs' on 'Comedy Central'. He drained a game-clinching three-pointer in at least one game in four straight playoff series over the course of the Lakers three-peat campaigns. He really did change the game. Shaq and Kobe may have been the out of this world superstars, but every leading man needs his best supporting actor and the award went to Robert Horry. Along with Rick Fox he formed a forward tandem for the dynasty ages and he played his classic clutch role to the basket along with Derek Fisher, the Fish that continues to save L.A. to this day. Clutch three after clutch free. Who says it doesn't rain in Southern California? When Horry poured, L.A. reigned.

Los Angeles Lakers vs Sacramento Kings (May 26, 2002-Western Conference Finals, Game 4)

In one of the most fiercely competitive series in NBA Playoff history there's nothing between the Californian Kings and Lakers in this bitter clash for the Western throne. Kobe's on the drive again but he cant find the twine from the baseline. The rebound falls to Shaq but his putback needs a mulligan and is put and tipped away by Vlade Divac and the rim. The loose ball bounces away from everybody and outside the arc to no other then Robert Horry for a straight ahead, straight forward three which is classic Horry and vintage NBA history.

Former Laker Vlade Divac must have been real jealous as he dismissed Horry's latest triumph as a "lucky shot", but there is no 'Cheap Shot Bob' here. Vlade needed to "read a paper" or the history books or something. Read all about it. Time and time again Robert Horry's being doing it and coming up big when needed. Hitting three's with a Reggie Miller purity meeting M.J. clutch. Still in 2003 when the Lakers were looking to go forth with a fourth championship the San Antonio Spurs and a 25 point deficit got in the way during the Western Conference Semi-finals. Horry was in a familiar position as the Lakers rallied back from a blow-out looking to close-out the Spurs in Texas, but something just wasn't clicking. Horry drew his long-range gun and fired but his shot was in and out like Kevin Kline in the nighties. As the buzzer sounded the Lakers hadn't just lost the championship to the San Antonio Spurs, this was the beginning of the end as they also lost their 'Mr. Fourth Quarter' to their Western Conference and championship rivals.

San Antonio Spurs vs Detroit Pistons (June 19, 2005-NBA Finals, Game 5)

The clocks winding down, we are in clutch territory yet again but this time Robert Horry's role is to make the inbound pass. Has he been taken out the equation? He passes to Manu Ginoboli on the left hand, three-point side, who pivots around his defender and passes back to Bobby who's been left open by Rasheed Wallace. Brent Barry can see the smirk on 'Big Shot Bob's' face; "your going to leave me open"? It's all good. Corner pocket, 'Mr. Big Shot', Robert Horry three, San An victory, sorry Chauncey.

Still even though the jersey changed to the black and white of the Lakers rivals fans didn't have to expect anything new. It was the same ole 'Big Shot Bob' in San Antonio from the Detroit Pistons to 38 out of 85 threes made in the 2005 playoffs. Horry even dunked and checked his way to victory showing that even in his latter career he'd always go hard for the sweet taste of victory. Horry made it a record seven championships for his career becoming the eighth wonder of the Basketball world and a top ten all-time clutch player...if not top five, or top three. Bird, Jordan and he...sorry Kobe. With the three Robert Horry put up more numbers than most legends would dream of...and he did it all from the bench.

The statistics and rings speak and count for themselves. The Hall should make way. Fame? Horry was infamous in a town where celebrities ran the courtside as well as the baseline. For the record Robert is one of only nine players in NBA history to have won seven or more championships in the NBA. Out of these nine of a kind guys he's the only one who did not play on the 1960s Celtics, this Laker legend is in a generation and class of his own, joining his 2000 champion team-mate John Salley as the only other player to win championships with three different NBA teams.

He may have not started games, but he sure did finish them. Carrying his team and family name with pride. Robert's arc of talent extended from behind the line as he also became the first NBA player in history 100 steals, 100 blocked shots and 100 threes in one season. Still, speaking of more big three's his seven in '97 against Utah made for the most three-point field goals made in a game without a miss. He's even outdone the greatest players of all-time. Fellow Laker alumni and all-time points leader Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is now second in playoff games played behind Horry. Now if you thought that was big the record for the number of three-pointers in an NBA Finals doesn't belong to Michael Jordan's 42 anymore, it belongs to Robert Horry's 53. Could the greatest Sixth Man of all-time be the greatest clutch player in NBA history? Time will tell like the reviews of the record but one things for sure, there is nobody like Robert Horry, no substitute. When talking about the greats people may not start with Robert, but they sure will finish with him. Like at the end of the game at the end of the day its all about Horry. The rafters and the Hall is waiting, here's hoping the NBA doesn't leave it to the last minute, they're not experts at that like he is. Hands down, seconds out, nobody did it like him. Three, two, one...none.

"That's just Robert man". Kobe Bryant.

MONEYBALL

2011-10-15T07:01:00.000-07:00

Money makes the basketball go round.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

In Brad Pitt's latest classic film, 'Moneyball' it's all about numbers...and baseball. Before a big game the franchise owner he plays tells Jonah Hill's character to text him the play-by-play. As the kid from 'Superbad' looks confused the forever young actor replies; "I never watch the games". Can the same these days be said about NBA owners? OK that was a swipe and an unfair one at that. We know owners do and if they don't it's because they have too much on their plate, but this money debate on whether these millionaires and billionaires are eating enough is leaving the fans full and fed up. Especially with these fans from waiters to lawyers being the ones who serve these millionaires and billionaires with the cheese that brings these guys the cheddar.

Once again it's the players, fans and those working behind the scenes and below the pay-grades that are getting ripped off, while the fat-cats are having the last laugh and cigar. There may not even be any celebratory champagne next year at this rate if a payoff is not made before the playoffs. David Stern is even playing the role of the Grinch, all but cancelling Christmas. Bar humbug to basketball this year right? Camp didn't look so good this year, with no training days like a DVD collection with no Denzel. It's not a good look. We're waving goodbye to the preseason and the first fortnight of the regular due to irregularities and somebody not being forthright. Right now this weekend when top players should be getting ready LeBron James is in Liverpool, England with his part owned football club, while Kobe is probably digging in his deeper than the 'Bat-Cave' wallet to help more of his peers out, both these things being a financial concern. At the going rate between Italian offers to Jellybean Bryant's son and British jerseys making 'World Peace' statements, more stars may flock over the pond to swim in opportunity instead of sink in lockout blues. Deron Williams is already struggling out in Turkey. Who's next before thanksgiving?

Is this lockout the case of the owners being sharks or should the players bite and "bow down" like Hall of Fame legend and lockout survivor Dennis Rodman has suggested? Sure if the players did they could play now, but they have rights too it's like Kevin Durant said the players aren't the one's stopping play. This isn't the first time the powers that be have stopped the ball from bouncing the fans way. From league passes only available for the well off, to worse off teams getting as much coverage as playboy centrefolds. The lesser teams really have nothing too, as teams like New York and the Lakers thrive, franchises like New Jersey and the Clippers will struggle to survive, just thank the basketball God's for Blake Griffin.

Los Angeles and the STAPLES Centre almost made way for another Kings franchise and we aren't talking about hockey. The Maloof brothers are acting all aloof and taking their Kings franchise out of Sacramento. I guess this loyal city really will have to die-hard, perhaps more fans we're needed as well as more cowbell. The Kings look to go back to their royal roots as they look to head across California for the 2012-2013 season. Locked out of Sacramento, Los Angeles and Orange County were on the cards but now it looks like the Anaheim Royal's will be the new identity of another dead franchise.

It's another case of a stolen team and city. Sure it's great when a new town gets a new team for it's fan base, but what of the old home? It's that old girlfriend syndrome. Those 'Save Our Sonics' pleas didn't mean a thing. Seattle may have the former champion Storm in the WNBA, but they lost it all with their beloved Sonics. The people of Seattle still miss their team and the good days like Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp. They miss it like they miss their band Nirvana and Kurt, or their sitcom 'Fraiser', but is anyone listening? The franchise said goodbye to Seattle as they headed to Oklahoma with new fans, colours and a name. As much as we love the new, exciting Thunder team led by Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook and it's city, the owners basically jacked the Seattle Sonics players. It's a whole new franchise just the same team. They should have really started from scratch, if they wanted to steal players they should have had an expansion draft like the Charlotte Bobcats. All this Seattle sorrow started with a Starbucks owner who built a success on two cups but obviously doesn't give two f#$@% about the Sonics. The only green he was thinking about was the green belonging to his company or bank account, leaving Oklahoma and the fans in Seattle blue.

This isn't the first time this has happened...obviously. Money makes the basketball world go round...and therefore makes its teams relocate around the U.S. more than a journeyman...word and respect to Joe Smith. Sure sometimes it happens for the best, the Hornets left Charlotte for New Orleans, segued to Oklahoma during the disaster and the great cities of Charlotte and Oklahoma were rewarded with other teams (although the latter was at Seattle's expense in more ways than one) while the Hornets helped gave the forgotten New Orleans hope that those in power didn't (politics as usual). Still teams are changing arenas nearly as much as players are changing lockers. The Sixers have just been sold, who knows if they'll remain in Philadelphia or leave like the Fresh Prince. What's at stake in Philly? There's a lot of food for thought, but who's really thinking about the team?

This kind of thing hasn't been happening for year, it's been happening for decades. Think about it. Utah isn't famous for Jazz (New Orleans have lost a team before), have you ever seen a grizzly bear in Memphis? There's more chance of catching a glimpse of Elvis. After losing Vancouver, Canada now only have one team in the NBA; the sole franchise outside the U.S. I guess those Great Britain and China aspirations have been put on hold along with the season during this lockout, there won't be any international games this year, let alone domestic ones. Now if Toronto don't get much better, don't be surprised if Canada's only NBA team gets absorbed back into the States as right now on and off the court they'd probably far better in the new Canadian Basketball League. A nation could lose two NBA franchises in the end while the city of Los Angeles and one arena almost gained three, this is getting ridiculous.

You see what this all comes down to is love and respect. Love for the game and respect for the fans. This lack of has been happening for as long as loyalists and purists wish they could forget. At the end of the day love is more important than money. This is deeper then supermodels with old rich men draped frailly over their arms. As corny as it sounds if owners opened their hearts more than they closed their chequebooks we'd have something worth fighting for. The NBA needs to take a leaf out the NFL's playbook, as this sports league ended their lockout in time for the very first down. This is a league who still have great fan communities all around the world, like the champion Green Bay Packers instead of a hated team like the feel of the Miami Heat outside of the talents of South Beach. This is a league that recently mourned the loss of revered and beloved Raiders owner Al Davis, while in the NBA many Lakers fans were calling for Jerry Buss' head after the Shaq situation until the Pau Gasol trade brought the glory and smiles back to the Lake Show. Where's the love more apparent? On the famous Hollywood streets or in a little corner in Wisconsin? Could the money hungry owners keep a franchise there, when anything outside of California doesn't really sell? Sure we're in a world-wide financial repression, but right now we're in a basketball depression too.

It should all be about the game but the only ones getting played are the fans. The league needs more owners that are loved because of who they are, not just because there the greatest ball player and rapper of all-time. Sure MJ and Jay-Z are doing a great job (even if the Nets really are going to have some 'New Jersey's' as they are about to leave the Meadowlands and another NBA city, but hey Brooklyn's not too far) but more need to follow suit and realise that the National Basketball Association is ruled by more than the lapels and ties. It's ran by the one's who wear the jerseys honouring the logo on the courts and in the stands. Even King James dropped 'Business LeBron' because he was tired of being a puppet, now his commercial success is based on him managing himself. Now how's that for a decision?

The owners need to really look at their players and see how much they're worth, even if they play overseas and bring in more interest and revenue, it's the players who will be doing this and lining their owners pockets despite the lockout. It's a win, win situation for the owners so maybe it's time they yielded and helped out the one's at a loss. They need to look after more than number one, before nobodies watching. Most NBA courts get turned to ice rinks when the basketball's not on. Between hockey, football and Hollywood giving Baseball some shine (let alone international sport and basketball) the focus is zooming out of David Stern's Basketball league. It's in the NBA's best interests to keep going...literally. I thought this was the league we're amazing happens. We're all witnesses right now...but for what?

SCOUTING THE ROSTER-L.A. LAKERS

2011-10-13T02:15:00.000-07:00

CENTRES

ANDREW BYNUM: Forget about the knee injury for a second-that's old news-and besides it doesn't tell us how good a player 'Drew really is. The injury prone Bynum might have got knocked down a lot but look at all the times he's got right, back up. Baby Bynum is all grown up and the Lakers son is mature enough in the face of injury adversity. On the floor Bynum is killer like Brandon Flowers. Post trained By Abdul-Jabbar, those baby hooks are a great presence for the Lakers. His dunks, rebounds and paint work decorate the Lakers with yet another primary option on offence and one more thing, championship charm. Now that's a good 'luck'.

THEO RATLIFF: One of the best defensive players and centre's of the 90's Theo Ratliff is definitely an upgrade even though the Lakers miss the entertainment of D.J. like a club on Saturday night minus the wheels of steel. It's the iron man play of Ratliff however that will keep the Lakers defensive armour steel throughout the long season and playoffs. This swat on defense will keep opponents at bay while Bynums off the block. Before the Lakers, the veteran Theo ran with the young 'cats and looked fly and forever young in Charlotte. Now Ratliff's flight plan might have changed but his job description remains the same. Theo looks to bring his trademark hard nosed, high I.Q. defence and strong finishes to help ensure the Lakers become signature champions. Ratliff's contract with the Lake Show was set because his form can almost guarantee the Lakers do this. Theo's names on the dotted line. Now the inks been dry for a year it's time for the trophy to be engraved.

JOE SMITH: This guy is not your average 'Joe Smith'. He is one of the best basketball players of recent decades. Now in his late 30's he's one of the most valuable veterans and bench players you could possibly want for your team riding the pine and still able to give you primetime in the NBA. He knows a lot about other teams in the association, because he's played for damn near all of them. More importantly though he knows more than just how to call home where he lays his sneakers. His basketball I.Q. is high and his offensive knowledge is sound to the chorus of crowd cheers. He's no dunce on the other end either, able to 'D' up like a lazy kid's report card. With all these facets this is one guy you really want on your scouting report.

POWER FORWARDS

LAMAR ODOM: (Also Small Forward) Things have been getting better and better for Lamar Odom whilst he's been a Laker. Those troubled Clipper days seem so far away right now. Now on the other side of the staple, these days L.O. is an established Laker and a better choice than Shaquille O'Neal right now. Although we miss daddy this Laker child worked out better in the long run after all. This reigning 'Sixth Man of the Year' also definitely deserves an over due All-Star selection. Still however most All-Stars don't have gold medals or Kardashians. Things are looking up for Lamar. Odom doesn't need it all however because he does it all. L.O. Is still versatile his initials should be changed to X and O. On both ends of the floor this centre tall forward (that runs the floor like a guard) brings Magic every night. Providing the Lakers with more tricks up those long sleeves. Speaking of long sleeves Lamar's wing span is so huge, it's more Hollywood sign than the Staples floor. This season nobodies going to pass him by.

DERRICK CARACTER: The Lakers need this guy to rebuild. From his inspirational tweets full of his second-name sake to his bulky, broad play. To make it on a team like this you need a little bit of character. Derrick may be short of a 'h', but he isn't a loss on 'D' ensuring the Lakers don't have an '0' in the middle. Sure Caracter was taken even later in 2010 NBA Draft than fellow sophomore Ebanks (58Th to be exact) but he has still impressed with his rookie play. From filling the holie in the middle when needed to proving he's no donut at the centre position, Derrick came in and glazed the Lakers with sprinkles of his talent. He can score, rebound and reduce opponents statistics while putting up his own numbers. That's one whole game, and this was all seen from just a taster. Now it's time for him to eat more. Now it's time for Caracter to show us the real him.

PAU GASOL: (Also Centre) Pau Gasol is the perfect sidekick to Kobe Bryant. Scottie Pippen to Kobe's Jordan with a little Kukoc. Pau can flip between the forward position and the spot left vacant when Andrew Bynum's on a knees up. Gasol is a heavy scorer, heavy on defense and an all round player. Without Bryant, Gasol is the franchise player, still believe that. It's surprising this dynamo has been asked to step it up in the past because at present he's been all work playing in his native Spain during this lockout. You can tell by that greasy, sweaty mop some would call hair and that psycho killers stare and scream after big plays. Sure Gasol might not look his best sometimes, (doesn't matter though the ladies still love him) but his game is nothing but beautiful. Plus he has stepped it up to boot. Ever since Kevin Garnett bullied him in the losing '08 finals Gasol has showed the strength and competitiveness of the fighting Irish, something Beantown didn't want to see this year. This former Jackson dubbed 'grasshoper' has turned into a Spanish bull fighter. Jiminy Crickets! Once you see Gasol working those Olive Oil flapping arms in the post it's hard not to slip up. The green team better have eaten their spinach this year.

SMALL FORWARDS

DEVIN EBANKS: Sure it's been said before. They look the same, play the same and even wear the same number but still as much as he helps the Lakers ease the loss of Trevor Ariza, Devin Ebanks is very much his own man. The Lakers normally never get the better draft picks but the Lakers hit the lottery when Ebanks number came up at 43 in the class of '10. Sure this is a ludicrously wrong placing for a player so fundamentally right but the rest of the leagues loss is the Lakers big win. Devin's in excess play is heaven sent. He's the ticket. He plays the passing lanes and is a steal in more ways then one. He can score, D and finish like Bruce Springsteen, tougher than the rest. Most importantly Ebanks doesn't just look like Ariza he also didn't look like a rookie last season. Now as a sophomore except much more.

METTA WORLD PEACE: Champagne sure tastes better than some fans beer. Ron Artest has come a long way since his darkest day and now in his brightest moments he shines as Metta World Peace. As for Metta...or Ron's past, it's a wrap. This champion is the Lakers wild card that cut the cheese instead of the deck. He's the one that made fans forget about Ariza before Ebanks. He forms Q.B.'s finest with Lamar Odom (Nas is proud) and as for his relationship with Kobe, they got in each others face in the 2010 playoffs again like the Rocket days, but this time they almost needed to get a room. All joking aside World Peace is serious now. Serious about getting better, serious about mental health and serious about winning. Number 37 made the Lakers diamond in a 'thriller' finals in 2010 and this season number 15 is going back to the basics, thinner, stronger and even more focused after a Dallas setback prevented him from putting another championship ring on ebay this year. Still you can bet Metta's in the right frame of mind. Peace.

MATT BARNES: From one top bracket defensive talent with a history of trouble both off the court and with Kobe to another. Matt Barnes signing last year gives the Lakers the perfect defensive supplement for Ron or Kobe off the bench. Barnes versatile talents may mean that even though he's coming off the bench he could still play starters minutes and be in the game at crucial moments. Ladies and gentleman, your looking at the defensive Robert Horry. When Barnes is on the floor at the same time as his dog Ron and the doberman the three give the Lakers the best perimeter defense trio in the league. Three lines of defence that even the army of LeBron and Dwyane would find hard to breach. Barnes may have some problems but he takes some offence too. Barnes isn't an upgrade from a player the Lakers have lost. There's no one like Barnes, this move is all asset adding another dimension to a team that stands out so much. There 3D, even without the three-peat.

LUKE WALTON: It's time for Staples Centre fans to start screaming 'Luuuke' again. Luke may have been battling back and all sorts of injuries but it's now time for him suit up on the floor instead of the bench and put those coaching aspirations on chill. Luke along with Kobe is one of the only surviving Lakers from the team that had Shaq on and since then Luke has been an important part of the teams fuel economy since the diesel left. Don't pass this assist man up because he's an asset to the Lakers with his all round play, competitiveness and heart. Luke was the perfect replacement for Rick Fox and provided he's healthy and in purple and gold, just like Rick, Luke will always be ready to go when the show need him. Like father Bill, like son however the injury prone Walton will look to make the most of his time. Unlike his dad however here's hoping this time isn't limited. Sure he'll make a great coach...but just one day, not yet.

SHOOTING GUARDS

KOBE BRYANT: MVP, Champion, Gold medalist, best since Mike, team player. What else has Kobe got to prove? Nothing. Still however in terms of championship promise if it's not reigning champs Dallas, critics are looking towards LeBron's big three in Miami, featuring Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. This may be too much too handle but hey Bird, Magic, Hakeem, Shaq, Ewing and more couldn't stop Jordan and just like M.J., Kobe today has an unmatched killer instinct and desire to win. Plus he's got his own bunch of 'superfriends'. Critics are making LeBron the villain and their doing this so much that their forgetting that Kobe's the hero. Just wait, there will be more times this season where Kobe pops the Lakers logo on his jersey than bites it. As quick as a flash Kobe can still take the throne no matter how much voltron is formed. Ignore him now but when you see 24 come at you, three isn't going to be enough, even if it's coming from Dirk.

SHANNON BROWN: Plain and simple Shannon Brown is showtime. This offseason may have be more of a case of 'who'? then WOW however! Still however if the Lakers lock this free-agent back up Brown will bring back his underrated D, his strength and his sparkplug plays and dunks. Shannon may like to dunk but he's not a one trick pony, there's a lot more magic and horsepower to S.B.'s all round game. Plus just like former Laker Sasha Vujacic, Shannon announced his engagement to a big star (R&B singer Monica). Now also just like Vujacic, Brown laced with two rings could be ready to show all that glitters is gold, Laker championship gold. That's if he doesn't leave the assemble of the Lakers like 'the machine'.

POINT GUARDS

DEREK FISHER: What more can be said about the Fish that's saved L.A. time and playoff time again? After some unnecessarily lengthy contract negotiations last offseason the Lakers reeled Fisher back in, to their advantage, not Miami's. Now the president of the Player's Association is making his own negotiations with the NBA to cast a line out to get this locked out season back. This big-time 'players player' is the key to all the success in the National Basketball Association. Derek's a rookie child of '96 coming up with Kobe and in some ways since that time he's been just as important as Kobe to the franchise. He may be old but name a guard that's strength and conditioning is on point as Derek's. Need a charge, a key bucket, free throw or clutch three? There's one Fish that you can always count on down the line. Hero doesn't even begin to describe. How about taking the first two letters of that word and adding some 'art'. This Fish is about to save the NBA and keep it beating again.

STEVE BLAKE: Laker fans may have been disappointed with the loss of Los Angeles' own Jordan Farmar but Steve Blake is more than a worthy replacement. Blake, a former Portland and Clipper favourite knows Staples, the Lakers and most importantly how to compete. Steve's hard nosed play, three point shooting and D is a clean cut as his shaved head. Blake is one of those guards that is terribly underrated when starting (think Luke Ridnour), but when he acts as backup he's one of the best in the L. With a deep season, an ageing Fish and a lot of bait amongst the competition the Lakers will need all the help they can get off the bench. Fortunately for them, Blakes got their back. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

SCOUTING THE ROSTER-L.A. LAKERS:THE B-LIST

2011-10-13T02:13:00.000-07:00

So good there's seconds.

The Lake Show is on right now. Over the past few seasons Los Angeles have been so good they've been named champion twice. If the Lakers want to avenge last years loss to last years champion Dallas, they will have to rely on more than the Mamba, the Spaniard and the act of 'World Peace' however. The Lakers depth extends more than Metta's wide range of extensive experience and Derek Fishers clutch range. If the Lakers are to be more successful and write history like Drake a big reason will be the bench mob which is the best they ever had. The second infantry is what will soldier this team on in a deep season and playoff campaign as the Lakers look to get presidential a year after their second, victorious term didn't translate into a three-peat. With this in mind and on court let's scout even further.

STEVE BLAKE: Derek Fisher may have the experience but Steve Blake's the future. Derek may have the years but Steve's got the speed. Blake's three point shot has developed so much that you could bank on it rivalling Fisher's in the clutch. These backcourt mates have nothing to bicker about however. These two guards compliment each other perfectly. Steve Blake in less than ten games last season showed that he would even belong in the first five. This game hero has already been a life saver for L.A. and there's still plenty of breathing space left for his development. A couple of years back the Lakers were a donut in the P.G. position but now they get the point.

SHANNON BROWN: There's more than an engagement to R&B singer Monica that is making this spark plug hit all the high notes. Shannon's always been more than a dunker but last year Brown really saw the light. Shannon looks to take flight this 82 as this years slogan should be 'Let Shannon Play'. He's now a free-agent but the Lakers should do all they can do to keep him locked down in L.A. lockout or not. Brown's shown great versatility over the years, his developing range is measuring as high as his energy. Still Shannon's dunking is what is pined after and gawked at as much as the bikini models on Venice Beach and it's these amazing aerial displays that will keep other teams grounded in games were the Lakers team or crowd need a 'lift me up'. Shannon Brown is the perfect definition of an energy player off the bench. Lose your spark he's ready to plug in at any given time. This pine time player is an expert in the prime time. Remember it's not who starts games, it's who finishes them.

MATT BARNES: This tattooed warrior settled back in California last season looking for some championship ink. OK there were no new tattoo's last year but Matt's got plenty of breathing room left on his skin. Sure to some this guy appears rough around the edges bit a player like him should make the Lakers cruise to the championship on a smooth sail. Matt is the strong, second wind behind the energy of the bench mob. With Ron Artest and the doberman, Barnes Jerry Maguires a three man perimeter defence tandem that is the best in the league with a mission statement to watch the throne. When all three bless the court at the same time even the Miami Heat will have hell to play. Plus Matt can spell both Kobe's shooting guard position and Ron's small forward spot meaning this swingman can give the Lakers an effervescent, fiery, defensive presence when the Lakers first string defenders cool off from the burn. Barnes tenacity and versatility help the Lakers adopt these characteristics as well. This defensive minded player is offensive too. Career highs of 36 points make Barnes guilty of talent on both ends of the floor.

LAMAR ODOM: He has not made an All-Star team yet (why?) and critics have written him off as the Scottie Pippen to Kobe's Michael Jordan (again why?). Still however Lamar Odom is the benches franchise player to Kobe's first team one. He may never be an MVP but ihe sure is even more than the 'Sixth Man of the Year; honor he picked up last season. Even when injury prone Andrew Bynum is out Odom can help the roster draw shape by moving to the four on the floor as Gasol takes front and centre. It's this versatility that sets guys like Odom and Garnett from the rest. If L.A. cloned L.O. he could play all five positions. This big guy can play in the backcourt too, now that's truly Magic. He's come on leaps and bounds over the years, but don't get it twisted he's no most improved. Lamar's always been this good. There isn't a player quite like him and until Anthony Randolph develops there won't be one still. Another unique thing about the Hollywood favourite (in more ways than one) is his unselfishness. He could be the star but he's more complimentary, not lazy. Critics may put other so called stars above Odom but he's got two things those others don't have...rings.

THEO RATLIFF: Lakers backup centres have always been reliable and entertaining but you can bank on something more eye catching with defensive presence, Theo Ratliff bringing his shot-swatting staple to the Lakers stadium. Last season Theo became as welcome in this Lakers family as a Huxtable is to the Cosby's. There's going to be a block party in L.A this year with Ratliffs presence on the hardwood and with this D student coming off the bench the defensive minded Lakers look even better at guarding the West throne from the rest and the Maverick best. Now Theo may be the oldest Laker but even in reduced minutes he'll still bring the Lakers an asset of experience that will pay off in playoff dividends.

Now with a second unit as strong as this it even leaves talent like Luke Walton and Joe Smith on the third team. Or if you like, the benches ideal sixth man (how strong is this?). It's this second battalions mix of fight, versatility and experience that makes these players the perfect finishing compliment to the starters. This second string ties this team together brilliantly. Meaning even when the Lakers are on the ropes they'll have the support in their corner ready to go another round. This second squad may not be a Hollywood list but it's all-star. Now don't you just love it when a B-team comes together? TIM DAVID HARVEY.

PLAYERS BALL-LA LAKERS ALL-TIME BEST STARTING 5

2011-10-12T03:35:00.001-07:00

Our 'Player's Ball' feature takes a look at best players and teams. Today is the LA Lakers all-time best starting line-up.

CENTRE: WILT CHAMBERLAIN

Sorry Shaq, you may be the daddy but Wilt the stilt towers over you and everyone else to get this position 100% and this is not because of the still untouched, won't be for awhile 100 point game (sorry Kobe). It's not about the legend or the statistical averages he stacked higher than his number of partners. Nobody comes close to screwing with Chamberlain, not even Kareem and his all-time point leading sky-hooks can catch up (sorry 'cap). Bill Russell couldn't even stop him and Wilt could put the D on the Celtic ring bearer too. From Phila to killer Cali' and the Lakers Wilt was all killer and no filler as he took up the whole paint and changed the game to make it his lane. Even with three guys tripling him in the painted area Wilt had the key to it all. He owned it and everyone. Now who else could dominate this position?

POWER FORWARD: KAREEM ABDUL-JABBAR

A.C. almost made it, Gasol needs a few more years for retrospect and Karl Malone's really Utah's (but what a great year from one of the greatest), so our man at the four is going to have to be someone a little different. The only way to settle this Kareem versus Wilt debate is too just put them in the same dream team and just hope they get along. If these two pivots played together they'd create a twin tandem that would even scare legendary San Antonio duo David Robinson and Tim Duncan out their spur. This formidable frontline would be too much, for double, triple or even full teams coming on the floor to defend. Kareem's no Power Forward but he could draw defenders out the paint for Wilt with his signature, sky-hook shot (not that Wilt would need to rebound). Plus if Wilt's not dropping 100, who better to carry the scoring load then the NBA's all-time points leader? The way to solve this best centre debate is to stand them next to each other and see what they're really made of.

SMALL FORWARD: KOBE BRYANT

The greatest player in the league right now-palms on the ball down-need we point anyone else in this position (albeit his un-natural one due to the selection of Jerry West at the 2)? Like the game, it's his. Leading his Los Angeles Lakers to a second straight NBA Championship in 2010 Kobe Bryant once again cemented his status as best in the NBA, furthering his legend as one of the best ever to do it. Sure Kobe had a lot more help than usual but still number 24 looked more and more like number 23 in his dominance of the game. Kobe put on his fifth championship ring (one less than Jordan) but he couldn't even fit it on his swollen finger. Still today Kobe doesn't just carry his team he carries injury after injury as he plays through the pain en route to comfortable victories. Where else can you put the best but number one? Said and done!

SHOOTING GUARD: JERRY WEST

There is nothing east of Jerry West. How was the logo of the NBA not going to make this team? Here he's even managed to push Kobe to the three like Shaq in the early millennium. Jerry West was the NBA and in many ways still is. Mr. Clutch could hit from anywhere, even his own court. The floor was Mr. Big Shot's, Mr. Lakers gave everything to the purple and gold franchise. Through all the years of Boston heartbreak to winning in the front office as a G.M. that was anything but general. From the skill to the savvy this serious player had a set of fundamentals that helped write the book on the modern day game of basketball (look out for the autobiography too coming next month). This year the logo was finally honored with a statue and this Laker legends place on this team will forever be set in stone.

POINT GUARD: MAGIC JOHNSON

Now how about some Magic? Who else to share this legendary backcourt with M.J. then M.J. A man who produced thrillers like pop's M.J. With Quincy Jones cool. Remember the time? Earvin 'Magic' Johnson was a pharoahe in this league, at the top of the Lakers pyramid. This no-look wizard won't pass up anything and will unselfishly even play centre if you ask him. Never fear Magic's here. With him your in safe, slight of hands. Without him there's nothing left to pull out your hat, no ace in the hole. There was no showtime without him and no greater competitor for Jordan to beat and truly take the torch off. The greatest player this league has seen not named M.J. with a Jeffrey. Without him Kareem, Bird and the NBA itself would never have been the same. The Basketball was an extension of him, not the other way round and so was the sport. His tricks of the trade changed the game. He's still making major moves in the business world today trying to bring the NFL to Los Angeles, and who else to quarterback this team the the man that brought the NBA to the world?

SIXTH MAN: ROBERT HORRY

Portland realise, Philadelphia have been through it, Sacramento know all too well, hell the whole wide league, United States and world know, when it comes to coming off the bench and hitting franchise and championship plays nobody can touch this man. Even Kobe's best M.J. impression and Mr. Clutch have to give it up to Big Shot Bob when he's behind the arc. From giving other people problems in the Houston days to the X-Factor championship Laker days let history be the judge. Sure Shaq, Mikan and Goodrich are criminally left off the chilling list, 'Big Game James' is Worthy too and even Gasol and Odom could be here. Still until Derek Fisher out-shoots him nobody will embody the sixth man position more than the Hall of Fame bound legend that is Robert Horry. As the clock reads '0.0', there's no one else.TIM DAVID HARVEY.

PLAYERS BALL-ALL-TIME BEST STARTING 5

2011-10-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

Our 'Player's Ball' feature takes a look at best players and teams. Today is the all-time best starting line-up.

CENTRE: WILT CHAMBERLAIN

Sorry Shaq, you may be the daddy but Wilt the stilt towers over you and everyone else to get this position 100% and this is not because of the still untouched, won't be for awhile 100 point game (sorry Kobe). It's not about the legend or the statistical averages he stacked higher than his number of partners. Nobody comes close to screwing with Chamberlain, not even Kareem and his all-time point leading sky-hooks can catch up (sorry 'cap). Bill Russell couldn't even stop him and Wilt could put the D on the Celtic ring bearer too. From Phila to killer Cali' and the Lakers Wilt was all killer and no filler as he took up the whole paint and changed the game to make it his lane. Even with three guys tripling him in the painted area Wilt had the key to it all. He owned it and everyone. Now who else could dominate this position?

POWER FORWARD: TIM DUNCAN

Tim Duncan isn't just the quietest, greatest Power Forward in the L right now, he's also the greatest in that position ever. Even Charles Barkley would shout that out. Silence the critics who talk him down as boring. Bored to death more like. This is one purple and gold killer that never donned green and white. Basically speaking this T-Bot gets the job done and his black and silver Spurs clicking on an everytime basis like a machine. His factory of talents have led to victory laps even when the Admiral David Robinson set sail for the last time. Giant Timmy even took his old San An boys to the NBA's best record last season. Duncan over everybody, Amar'e, McHale, whoever. The centre position may have gravitated to the four in the late nighties but that's when the T-Bot took control and made it and the league his own. No one else computes.

SMALL FORWARD: LARRY BIRD

No team flies without Bird. This is Larry's legend. The legacy? Well that belongs to the Celtics and this guy brought Boston so much green you could call him Red. The champagne and success was on the hick from the French Lick. He may have not looked like a basketball player but his game translated into one of the greatest. He changed the sport and how it was marketed in the mainstream along with rival/friend Magic Johnson and he showed Earvin and Laker showtime that green-collar Boston hard-work was the real good luck. Bird hit everything from three and from anywhere showing he could hit shots that could land him on the blacktop streets. His greatest quality wasn't his charismatic confidence it was his genuine selflessness. From the 'Lick Flick' lightening, Magic like behind the head passes to the blood, sweat, tears and years he helped assist the Boston Celtics with. He gave his team absolutely everything and that's why he definitely makes ours.

SHOOTING GUARD: MICHAEL JORDAN

The greatest of all time (and we're talking about sport and not just basketball) of course makes the all-time best scorer. Got Mike? Then you've got your go to scorer who can go toe-to-toe with anybody, offensively or defensively, Shaq or Kobe. Got Mike? Then you've got a defensive stopper, a Knick stopper, a crowd stopper and a revolution starter. Got Mike? Then you've got the greatest competitor who's ever played a game of basketball or monopoly. Got Mike? Then you've got a basketball monopoly and dynasty. Got Mike? Then you've got someone that never gives up and never really retires. Got Mike? Then you've got the air in your building and the man who shakes the foundations from his Nike's. Got Mike? Then you've got sponsorship and a real endorsement. Got Mike? Then you've got the best ever...period. Who else you gonna pick? Sam Bowie?

POINT GUARD: MAGIC JOHNSON

Now how about some Magic? Who else to share this legendary backcourt with M.J. then M.J. A man who produced thrillers like pop's M.J. With Quincy Jones cool. Remember the time? Earvin 'Magic' Johnson was a pharoahe in this league, at the top of the Lakers pyramid. This no-look wizard won't pass up anything and will unselfishly even play centre if you ask him. Never fear Magic's here. With him your in safe, slight of hands. Without him there's nothing left to pull out your hat, no ace in the hole. There was no showtime without him and no greater competitor for Jordan to beat and truly take the torch off. The greatest player this league has seen not named M.J. with a Jeffrey. Without him Kareem, Bird and the NBA itself would never have been the same. The Basketball was an extension of him, not the other way round and so was the sport. His tricks of the trade changed the game. He's still making major moves in the business world today trying to bring the NFL to Los Angeles, and who else to quarterback this team the the man that brought the NBA to the world?

SIXTH MAN: JULIUS ERVING

Your sixth man doesn't need to be your star of stars but in this case he needs to be one in his own right. Your sixth man doesn't have to be a swingman but if he's going to be effective he's got to over a few position. Being the best dunker could help get some points on the board and fans off the 'bored' too. Maybe some style wouldn't hurt either, a 'fro or some high socks. It helps team identity if this guys iconic, or capable of starting a cultural revolution. A sixth man needs to be able to score, D, bang and board like he could start, or why should he play. He needs to make seamless transitions like from the ABA to the NBA. Thank the basketball God's for Julius. Erving is just what the good Dr. J ordered. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

PLAYERS BALL-TODAY'S BEST STARTING 5

2011-10-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

Our 'Player's Ball' feature takes a look at best players and teams. Today is the present best starting line-up.

CENTRE: DWIGHT HOWARD

He has the biggest smile and personality in the league today. He dons Superman capes for dunk contest, sings at the free throw line, dances and jokes at every opportunity and he's even cameo's in movies and released an album. The Shaq parallels are huge and just like the most dominant ever Dwight Howard must be taken seriously. He aint no joke. Don't let the warm persona fool you Howard's a cold competitor. Still the best physical specimen in the L, with two handers, put backs and rebounds for days and games. OK he isn't as good as they say...he's better. His Orlando Magic team are true contenders and not a Disneyland, Mickey Mouse act. He may have talent around him but it all starts and ends with him. He may act like his jersey size, but his game goes beyond his years as he matures and morphs into a Shaq/Bill Russell hybrid. Besides 'Fast Don't Lie', so save the talk. Dwight Howard's going to sing.

POWER FORWARD: AMARE STOUDEMIRE

It didn't look great for this power player years back...literally. One eye operation and a couple of knees up beforehand, this guy was spending more time on x-ray boards than low post ones. Still that's a thing of the past now as Amare Stoudemire has braced up and is now rocking goggles that make him look like the T-Horace Grant 1000. It all looked the same for the New York Knicks last year, once again Madison Square Garden looked like the crapper of basketball but then the Knicks upped their STAT's. Stoudemire looks like the old him, power dunking, power blocking, power boarding and power steering his way back to greatness. It's the kind of plays that make Michael Olowakandi poster. It's the kind of performances that make good on the promise to make Knick basketball relevant again. It's the kind of power that makes MSG fans say 'LeBron who?' and 'welcome Carmelo'. That's Amare!

SMALL FORWARD: LEBRON JAMES

The king of the NBA by royal appointment of David Stern, this guy is the commissioner of the future. Still, some threw rocks at the throne (or the billboard) but they better keep watching it. From Cleveland to Miami LeBron James witnessed a change in his status from love to hate. Still one thing didn't change about the guy as he switched teams, his brilliant all round play. The swingman furthered the development of his all round game. The player who can play point but also has the power of a forward muscled his way to greatness with more classic NBA moments. Then in another moment of televised decision, love it or loathe it the 'Bron showed how dominant he really is. How can one man have so much power? Because he's the king.

SHOOTING GUARD: KOBE BRYANT

The greatest player in the league right now-palms on the ball down-need we point anyone else in this position? Like the game, it's his. Leading his Los Angeles Lakers to a second straight NBA Championship in 2010 Kobe Bryant once again cemented his status as best in the NBA, furthering his legend as one of the best ever to do it. Sure Kobe had a lot more help than usual but still number 24 looked more and more like number 23 in his dominance of the game. Kobe put on his fifth championship ring (one less than Jordan) but he couldn't even fit it on his swollen finger. Still today Kobe doesn't just carry his team he carries injury after injury as he plays through the pain en route to comfortable victories. Where else can you put the best but number one? Said and done!

POINT GUARD: RAJON RONDO

Critics for years have been talking about who's the best point guard in the L, Deron Williams, Chris Paul or Nash. Water cooler experts have been talking about the importance of the Boston Celtics big three of Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen. Still over the last two years the name Rajon Rondo has gone through the NBA's four P's, potential, promise, prominence and power. The former raw backup given the reigns of a championship squad is now the reams centrepiece. As 'Jesus', 'Da Kid' and 'The Truth' age Rondo just keeps getting better and better and more like the teams franchise player. He can score, dish, provide D and has as much savvy as an off court baller, but on the floor Rondo is shines instead of shimmering. Get the point? No, well put it this way the name Rajon Rondo belongs in critics and water cooler experts guarded debate. Whether in the mix or right there on top, like his Celtics could still be. Don't rule anything out, this guys headband and shoulders above the rest.

SIXTH MAN: DWYANE WADE

D. Wade came a long way from being taken off the floor in a wheelchair the season before last and we're talking more than the All-Star MYP award. This year Wade has been one of the best players you could have on your franchise, in more ways than one. Not only has Wade's world been a place that makes acrobatic, difficult and clutch shots again it's also been one of the best destinations for basketball. Dwyane once again became the leagues best general as he dominated the floor for his Miami Heat squad and also rallied in some troops of real strong company. Things where looking promising in Miami then in a flash things where fulfilled with a BANG! LeBron James and Chris Bosh took their talents to South Beach. There has been more than enough three months ago of talk, opinion and hate about this superteam but as the voltron formed critics and fans alike forgot to recognise one thing. Dwyane Wade may just be the best recruiter there is. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

LEGACY OF TRADITION

2011-10-02T03:18:00.000-07:00

The God's of Basketball.

BY TIM DAVID HARVEY

“It's a Sexy Match up”. -Kobe Bryant

“We Never Take These Moments for Granted”.-Paul Pierce

So Dallas and Miami may have taken care of the NBA's two most famous franchises last season and created a new match-up for a new generation, but one thing they can't take from the Boston Celtics and the L.A. Lakers is their tradition and legacy. Back in 2008 the Lakers and Celtics took over half a century of storied rivalry and got it back on for two finals over three years. This was the big ticket like Kevin Garnett, starring two teams who took two 'chips out of each other. Even today some may call it boring but isn't this the match up everybody wants to see? Well… kind of.

Look back to 2008 and this match up of the moment. The Lakers and the Celtics, two of the associations most recognizable and storied franchises. Two powerhouses, evenly matched and going at it game after game. There was no David in this story, just two Goliaths’. The anticipation was mouth watering; however over the last couple of years one match-up has rivalled the instant vintage of a Lakers, Celtics classic. This is the potential head to head match up between Kobe Bryant and the other best player in the league; LeBron James. This is what everyone expected to see this June. The leagues two best all-round players, recent MVP's and dual ‘SLAM Presents’ cover stars duking it out. In the blue corner, Kobe, the best since M.J., holding more in experience, skill and accomplishment. In the red corner, LeBron, the present and future, the all-round player and phenom. A player who has already accomplished so much and is set to achieve so much more. After all the hype however alas there are no games scheduled in STAPLES this year, neither were there any 'Most Valuable Puppets' final commercials airing. The ultimate, winner takes all battle for the best player in the NBA again will have to wait.

One thing us die-hard NBA fans can't wait for is another Lakers/Celtics bout. The Celtics took the Lakers in 2008, but two years and a L.A. championship against Orlando later in 2010 Kobe Bryant had the chance to claim his status as the greatest in the NBA. Back then before he had his chance to beat the best player in the league he had to win it all against the best team. The history speaks for itself. Boston have 17 titles to L.A.'s 15. They’ve beaten the Lakers 9 times in the finals. L.A. had beaten Boston twice, but the third time was the charm. Historically there was so much more to prove in 2010. This then all changed as Kobe and the Lakers took it within one game of tieing the all-time series, imagine if they could do it again. Boston did not beat L.A. for a tenth time, history will all come down to the next match-up. Now who wants to see that.

Statistically and mentally speaking Boston have the upper hand, they were a sprinkle of talcum powder away from slapping the Lakers hard with this fact, until the boys from Hollywood took their hands and rewrote history's script. The Lakers have suffered many a heartbreak by Boston only to be left green with Celtic envy at what they've achieved in relation to their rivals, but things are looking more evenly matched these days. The Lakers have endured it all, from celebratory balloons falling on an empty, solemn, Forum court to Kobe Bryant sombrely walking off the Celtics parquet floor in 2008 with green & white ticker tape falling around him. It's moments like that when all a beaten opponent can do is keep their head down, staring at the famous wood that has been the bane of many opposing teams postseason lives. Kobe's long walk was similar to Magic's walk off the Forum floor when Jordan and the Bulls stopped the ‘Show’ before it's time at the start of the 90’s. These so called 'walks of shame' may be an NBA players lowest moment but if you look deeper than that it's also the moment a competitor like Kobe or Magic renew their focus and regroup. A focus that then turns a walking Kobe into a jubilant running and jumping champion in the 2010 rematch that took the game, set and, match advantage back to L.A.'s court.

Before that however in 2009-one year removed from losing on his rival’s court-Kobe was jumping up and down in jubilation on another opposing team’s floor. Reclaiming the championship after seven, long, Shaq-less years against Orlando was real sweet, but like Nas ‘It Aint Hard to Tell’ that Kobe was still troubled by the Boston loss in '08. As were the rest of the Lake show. It's almost felt like the defending champions wouldn't really feel like they’ve reclaimed their crown fully unless they took it off the team that took it off them last. That's the real 'chip on the Lakers shoulder. Sure the Magic were ans still are an enthralling team but fans were craving ‘Lakers, Celtics 2’. The sequel that everyone really wanted to see. It's like when Muhammad Ali heard the infamous Howard Cossell commentary, 'Down goes Fraizer, DOWN GOES FRAIZER!' Ali knew that even though he would end up the champ, there would still be a score left to settle that would have to wait. This was the same for the Lakers after they won in 2009. Their time to really win was in 2010 and boy did they.

The Celtics had something to prove as well. They needed to prove that their first championship was not merely a one off. In the same year the Lakers cast a spell on the Magic, the Celtics had no tricks left in their bag as they fell in the playoffs much earlier than expected. Their defence of their championship left a lot to be desired. They displayed more the age of a veteran than the heart of a champion. Also, the Celtics still wanted to be considered as the best team in the league, so they needed to show everyone that they could beat a Laker team that battle-tested from previous losses had now won a championship. The Lakers had the advantage there but the Celtics wanted to show the league that it wasn't happening in their house. Whichever team would win this series would start to make their stamp on establishing their own dynasty in this league.

Sure watching 'The Mamba' and 'The King' go at it for seven games would of made some classic NBA playoff moments. Two evenly matched players with similar games, guarding each other and going basket for basket, dunk for dunk. That would of been something special, but that didn't mean that the Celtics/Lakers series of the second decade of the new millennium wasn't any less special. The Lakers, Celtics rivalry has resulted in many defining moments in NBA history and this series undoubtedly added more memories to the vault and more fuel to the fire of this traditional, heated rivalry.

It's not just the fans that wanted it. Both teams relish this match-up too. Phil Jackson expressed to Paul Pierce in the 2009 off-season how he wanted him to lead his Celtics back to the finals again so they could face off again, he got his wish a year before his retirement as well as his 10Th ring. It was the match-up to see who really was the real champion. In 2010 both teams were better than they were the last time they met in '08. They both had a championship under their belt, they were both seasoned and closer as units and they both were dominant to the point were it looked too easy for them. Think about it both teams at times managed to coast through the season and playoffs in what looked like second gear. Now as both teams were back were they wanted to be. It was time for both teams to take one, hard stare at each other, then put the foot down.

Boy did they put their foot down too. Both teams went at it for the full seven games, taking blood, sweat, tears and years off, not to mention each others home-court advantage. There was nothing between these two greats in this epic series, except a hard-fought ugly game 7 which showed just how competitive and beautiful this game really is. From the eccentricities of Ron Artest and Rasheed Wallace to the smooth flowing games of Lamar Odom and Ray Allen and K.G.'s growls to Gasol's stares and Pierce's passion to Kobe's never say die attitude everyone brought their A game, for a first-grade series to report on. The 2010 NBA Finals went down as one of the best moments to register in basketball history. Now who wants to see these two hall Of Fame teams do it again?

Sure Boston's window may be getting smaller as their team is getting older but trust they are more wiser too. Plus the fourth Beatle of Rajon Rondo has taken this big-three up a notch with a breath of young fresh air, which should keep the window of opportunity open for longer. Now the Lakers may have been embarrassed and dismantled by last years champion Dallas, but this is no part two to the 'death of a dynasty' that critics are calling time on. Phil Jackson may be gone, but the best player in the league today and the second best of all time is here with, the best European player Pau Gasol and their Hollywood squad. Showtime is still very much on, and Celtic pride is the only thing that can dampen the Lakers accomplishments.

It's all about the two greatest franchise in league history. The tension. The rivalry. Bird and Kareem squaring off. Wilt and Russell going at it. Offence versus defence. Showtime versus hard work. It's about Magic’s baby hook. It's about Celtic fans rushing the floor as soon as the buzzer sounds. It's the rings on Bill Russell’s fingers compared to the frustration on Jerry West's face. It's the Forum and the Garden. It's the fans. The celebrities turning up in Los Angeles to add shine and the regular folks in Boston driving around the Lakers hotel room at 3am, keeping the players awake all night.

It’s Los Angeles versus Boston. Hollywood versus blue collar. ‘Beat L.A.’ versus a ‘Boston Massacre’. It's all about Kobe or Pierce. Gasol or Garnett. It's all about players like Bynum and Odom or Allen and Rondo. Guys all over the floor who can make an impact and difference and change the tone of a series. It's about two acclaimed teams stacked from 1-15. Bench for bench. Burn for burn. It's two foes going at it. Possession for possession. Play for play. Bucket for bucket. Game for game. It's all about the Larry O'Brien trophy. It's all about now. Sure this rivalry took a year off but you must believe these two teams will be back to do battle with each other. In NBA history they always come back, they always do. These two teams are married to each other for better or worse in a matrimony of history, legacy and tradition. Divorce yourself from last year and engage yourself with their partnership because your cordially invited to the next ceremony between the masters. Now who's got the rings?

HARD TO EARN

2011-10-01T16:16:00.000-07:00

From the recession to the lockout.

BY TIM DAVID HARVEY

We are less than a month away from the start of the 2011/2012 NBA season, but is this the end? We are still very much in a lockout, because apparently the love for the game isn't enough. Money matters and you best believe-despite what they say-we are still in a recession people. In today’s economic climate we are all still feeling the sting, rich or poor it effects us all. Even platinum rapper Young Jeezy released an album called 'The Recession'. Let's take a look away from the lockout for a moment and look at other cash flow issues the NBA has. In one of the biggest money making sports leagues in the world which teams are fairing better and how long can this glitz and glamour NBA keep burning through cash in these hard times? We already know the buck is stopping with the season's scheduled games but how long can this association be overdrawn?

Let's take a look back at the source. Let's rewind to an important day in the Summer 0f '09 (not as glamorous as Bryan Adams '69 record mark my words). Here we are at the tail end of July and memories of the NBA Finals over a month removed were still fresh in our minds. The NBA draft was almost a month back and we were amidst an eventful summer of free agency. Even with all that however already the champion Lakers had bought in another All Star, the Celtics have bolstered their deep roster and Shaquille O'Neal has signed with his third different team in many a year. Just another week in the big business that is the National Basketball Association, who's teams seem to be saying ‘Recession, what recession?’ until…

…the reality check of July 7th came along. The NBA announced that the salary cap for the following season would be lowered by almost $1 million to $57.7 million and the luxury tax would be lowered from $71.15 to $69.92. This meant that teams with salaries that peaked above the mark of $69.92 million would have to pay a $1 tax for every dollar they exceed. This is something teams definitely wanted to avoid, especially in this league were money is king (Sorry Lebron) it was another cost to endure in an unpredictable league and an even more unpredictable financial market. A league and it's market today that still can't predict an end to this miserable lockout which is surely costing the players and the owners more money than is being negotiated.

Still, back then the NBA was said to have a ‘Soft cap’ and teams were and are allowed to exceed the cap in order to retain a free agent who was already on their team. This is known as ‘The Larry Bird Exception’ and teams like the 80’s Celtics with the luck of Larry will be able to stay competitive for many more years, unless these type of teams reside in Cleveland, I guess that exception was not a Cavalier decision with the biggest of players. The lowering of the Salary cap however, ensured it was the players and not the teams that were effected by this the most. The free agents who could demand a higher pay scale could flock to the top teams that can ante up in their favour, (see the previous sarcastic comment and 'talents taken to; South Beach').

Its not about the money, its not about business, right? Wrong! Remember last week when your mans word was stronger than oak, the same guy now realises that nine rooms might not be enough, as they look to set sail on a Sprewell yacth complete with his rims. Of course this isn’t the case of every NBA player and losing a couple of million when you’re a multi-millionaire is simply pocket change. Still, however a player has to ask himself which form of ‘ballin’ do they subscribe to and which ‘rock’ would they rather have in their hand. For a basketball purist its hard to swallow but money at least makes this world go round. Who's really being greedy in this lockout however? The owners or the players? Who's looking after their future and who's holding out an Oliver Twist bowl? MORE? What's going to keep the beat of next season going? The players hearts or their cheque-books? Who really loves this game?

When lesser teams have a strict budget-especially with what's happening today and this stale Summer signing period-some of the most sought after free agents and trades may be passed up, especially with the majority of franchises pinning their futures on free agent classes like they were draft days. Still however back in 2009 the billion dollar industry and it's teams were still splurging and spending, wheeling and dealing to make it to the top. Frequent trade-bait Shawn Marion and sought after free agent Hedo Turkoglu were involved in a four team deal and Ron Artest and Trevor Ariza were snapped up by the star laden Lakers and Rockets respectively, almost like a backwards trade, leaving their respective teams for the other, swapping residences and lockers.

Youtube Ron Artest’s signing with the Lakers and you’ll see him toasting his dream move with Mitch Kupchak in a swanky LA spot. As they charge their glasses, Mitch toasts to the next time they taste champagne being in the NBA Finals in June, a great statement for a Lakers repeat and in these times maybe the next time they can afford a decent bottle of champagne. This was all before the big-three free-agent circus that was last year, which probably saw more cigar and champagne bills than an average night in with Hugh Hefner. No wonder some of Miami's promotional staff got laid off, what else is there to flaunt?

OK so maybe a successful, championship team like the Lakers with their Hollywood fan base filling the Staples Centre on a nightly basis have little to worry about. Then again playing in a big market doesn’t always guarantee financial success. Take the Knicks who along with the Mavericks needed to pay luxury tax to the tune of in excess of $23 million in 2009, thank God for a Carmelo trade and a Texan championship, as now these franchises are out of the firing line and back in top Trump style business, time to light up the Cuban's hey Mark? Still sometimes instead of trading cash considerations owners might want to consider his cash. Every little help rights? Every penny counts? Even in the big leagues and big business markets it's always good to save and put something away for a rainy day, or a rained out, locked out NBA season. This isn't baseball, but it sure is moneyball and the only one who's going to win next (Oscar) season is Brad Pitt and the MLB.

One way for teams to consider the amount of money their spending is for them to look at how much there bringing in. Whether you’re the Los Angeles Lakers or the Los Angeles Clippers, you must balance your books. We all know there’s a lot of money that even goes into just one NBA game, let alone a season and the preparation for it, hey that chalk that Lebron James tosses into the air isn’t cheap you know. One of he best ways for a team to bring in money right away is obviously through the fans. That’s right take delight in knowing your helping pay all those millions for some ex-All-Star-who's either injured or just there for show-to sit courtside in a suit all season and just be thankful that you don’t have to pay for Latrell Sprewell’s family to eat anymore (sorry again Spree, this aint personal, we're just staying).

Getting fans to the games and the merchandise and concession stands is important for teams to turn a profit. Still however regular season gate receipts show a $2.66 million deficit in 2009 throughout the league from 2008/2009's $1.1 billion and it hasn't got much better since. OK so speaking in NBA financial terms that 7.4% skid was spilt milk, but it still showed that ticket sales were souring. What will happen next season with these disheartened and disgruntled fans? Right now would many fans even be willing to buy a ticket or subscribe to a minute of league pass with this state of uncertainty for the future of next season?

Exciting young players with stacks of potential seem to be making stacks for the NBA right now...and these are the guys who's immediate future is in jeopardy. The Chicago Bulls came first in total attendance this year to the tune of 893,462 fans. To put this in perspective, back in our benchmark year of change in 2009 this figure was 847,903. Chicago's a big market but it's MVP Derrick Rose who is creating the biggest buzz in the United Centre since the other famous M.J. of the 90's took to the floor with his off the wall play. Even during a green-eyed visit to the United Centre this year, Jordan-whilst in attendance-saw first-hand how much the fans in Chi-town bloom at the same rate of the growth of Rose's career. These are the kind of markets and players which will help the league stack money and success. Maybe then nobody will be reaching into their pockets...except the fans and back to this point isn't it these paying customers that really are the ones that need to be considered.

With no real forecast available of how the economy will go-or when this lockout will end-its hard to tell which teams will prevail and which teams will fail. This is especially true when teams can do so well in attendance but also suffer big losses in attendance gate receipts. This is also evident when top teams and franchises playing in big markets will have more luxury tax problems that will only leave the fat cats of the NBA comfortable. This is your evidence of your lockout. This is my everyone is so evidently unhappy right now. One things for certain-in a league that these days is more business-is that money talks like Chris Tucker...and it's beginning to get annoying too (not you Chris, much love, it's the NBA that's leaving us 'P#£$*! off man').

Therefore even when everyone is digging deep in their pockets the richer teams will get richer and the poorer teams will get poorer one way or another. I guess those role players will have to play their role of sacrificing even more, while the big dogs keep barking. Thank God for the doberman Kobe and his pledge to lend money to his fellow NBA (not just Laker) teammates during the lockout. There’s only room at the top for a select few and when money isn't readily available its survival of the fittest in this league. Top tier teams and big markets will obviously be at an advantage but in a time where we all have to tighten our belts teams better have smarts too. Still, championship contenders will be more willing to pay greater salaries to those greater players and big name free agents won't always take diminishing salaries to sign with lottery bound teams. It looks like the Miami's and the Cleveland's are getting even more further apart. The giant teams are getting even bigger and the smaller franchises are being trampled on. Still, however the whole NBA is suffering. The players aren't getting to play and the owners aren't taking ownership. The competition should be on the hardwood courts, not the legal ones. This is a game, right? Who's playing who?

HEART & SOUL-An Interview With Brian Grant

2011-10-01T06:07:00.000-07:00

Where inspiration happens.

By Tim David Harvey

This is the story of a player who deserves ink not just because of the tragic circumstances that he has endured, but because of his heroic contributions on and off the court. From his perfect play on the basketball floor to his influential inspiration off it, bringing positivity to others in the face of negativity. This is the story of 'The General', who has shown us how true a warrior he really is.

Those famous dreadlocks are whipping emphatically as he enters the paint, and just like his game his style can't be tamed. He bounces the ball at the baseline with authority, but also with grace, (the kind of grace that only comes from those 6,9, 254 pound power forwards who can also play centre when called on for duty) he spins around Shaquille O'Neal and forces his way inside for two points. Just a pair of points on the box score for the Portland Trail Blazers, but an energy boost and statement to Shaq's Lakers that Richard Pryor would be proud of, 'We aint dead yet'! This player and his team was no joke. Back in 2000 the Lakers may have had Shaq and Kobe and an almost clear run to the championship but the Trailblazers had the on the ropes along with enthusiasm, hustle and heart and nobody epitomised those characteristics on the Blazers roster more than Brian Grant did.

That's why you know that even in his current tragic situation he will fight through, just like Michael J. Fox, Muhammad Ali and countless other strong willed Parkinson disease fighters. He's spent his whole life being a strong, courageous guy and although are thoughts have been with him in this terribly testing time we know that there aren't many out there as heroic as he is. Just like Fox said Brian's got "the broadest shoulders", whatever the load. Brian Grant was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's Disease in 2008 at just 36 years of age. Did you know this disease can effect people as young as 18? Parkinson's disease is a degenerative neurological disorder that is caused by the loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain. This dopamine is what makes the muscles in the human body move with coordination. Sadly there is still no cure for this disease.

Still, never discouraged in the face of tragedy, Brian Grant continued his already incredible and generous charity work by setting up the 'Brian Grant Foundation' in order to help raise awareness of this disease and help fellow sufferers. Following this has come the 'Shake It Till We Make It' benefit and the step, by, step, helpful new website, poweringforward.org that provides fellow patients with all the information and inspiration they need. The former fourth position player is going forth and front and centre once again with even more power and inspiration. Just four years after his diagnosis he is already doing so much...for others.

Q: Brian, thank you for your generous time in your incredibly busy schedule, it is appreciated just like the inspiration you give. How is everything with you and the 'Brian Grant Foundation going? We wish you well.

BRIAN GRANT: Thank you - things are going well. We've only completed one full year in with my new foundation, but we've already launched our poweringforward.org website and we're moving ahead with its development.

Q: Can you tell us more about your new website 'poweringforward.org'? It is a very positive and direct aid to patients and their families. How did this new website come about?

BRIAN GRANT: When I was diagnosed, I didn't know where to find information that would help me answer the question, "What now?" I knew I had Parkinson's, but I didn't know what was going to happen to me and what my options were to live day to day with the disease. All the websites I looked at just flat out scared me. Our website is designed to be a place of comfort where people can get their questions answered and actually see (through video) other people like them that are experiencing similar issues.

Q: You spread a very positive message of Parkinson's being something that is part of your life but doesn't have to be a part of your life. How important is it to spread this way of thinking to those suffering, especially those who suffer depression too?

BRIAN GRANT: For me, depression is the worst symptom. It comes and goes, but when it comes on, it's very difficult to control. I think 85% of Parkinson's patients suffer from it, and it can be very debilitating, especially because it's hard to get up and go when you just feel like staying in bed. Yet, we know that getting up and doing some form of movement or exercise is the very best treatment for this disease. Hopefully, our website can encourage people to know that they're not alone.

Q: We love what your doing with the 'Shake It Till We Make It' benefit. How was this year for you and what are among your favourite fundraising events?

BRIAN GRANT: Shake It Till We Make It is our signature event for Portland, Oregon – where I live. Once again, the community really supported us and we were happy to have so many really great people come out to our beautiful city. This year's event was much more focused on showing people what it's like to live with Parkinson's, and I am grateful for the many friends who participated.

Q: Congratulations on the 'Celebrity Gala', 'Army Events' and 'Golf Challenge', How's Charles Barkley's Golf swing?

BRIAN GRANT: Charles swing may not look good, but he's still a lot more consistent than me, so I can't criticize the man. I'm just grateful that he's willing to come out and enjoy our hospitality and laugh with a lot of our guests. He really makes it fun. I'm also grateful for the support of other NBA Greats, such as George Gervin, Bill Russell, Bill Walton, Jim Jackson, Terry Porter, Chris Mullin, Nate McMillan and many others. These guys being here makes it a great event.

Q: What forthcoming events are on your foundations calendar?

BRIAN GRANT: We have an event coming up in Missoula, Montana that is being held by a special friend of the Foundation, Hadley Ferguson. She is a wonderful artist who also has PD and is only in her mid-30's. We're looking forward to visiting her home town and supporting her efforts to "power forward." If people are interested, they can learn more at www.summitforparkinsons.org. Also, we're planning an event next spring in Cincinnati, with the University of Cincinnati's Neurological Center. The Gardner Family, who gave the money to start that center are partnering with us to do an event there. It's scheduled for April 14, 2012. Visit briangrant.org for more details.

Q: I had the pleasure of meeting your good friend Raphael Saadiq this year at a show in London. How is he and other friends and family of yours helping with your foundation and your own personal inspiration?

BRIAN GRANT: One of the most important ways that my friends help me is simply by encouraging me to keep going. Everyone who has this disease needs a community of people around them to encourage them, and that is what Ray does for me. My family is also a huge source of support for me. They are really my caregivers. All my kids, my mom, my aunt, and special friends are there to make sure that I'm doing okay; sticking to my diet and exercise and trying to stay positive. It's hard sometimes, and everyone needs that support network around them. That's why Powering Forward will grow. It will become that hub for the Parkinson's community. It will take time to get there, but we'll get there.

Q: You have been inspired and motivated by fellow Parkinson's Disease sufferers Muhammed Ali and Michael J. Fox and them by you. Can you tell us more about your relationship with these great men and the power that there and your celebrity has on creating a positive influence on raising awareness and unity?

BRIAN GRANT: The greatest thing is just knowing that we're all in this together. Michael's foundation will find a cure someday. Muhammad's center in Phoenix is an unbelievable resource for patients in that area who are very progressed with the disease. Hopefully our website will be the place that people can come to find out what's happening and what they can do NOW to live with this disease UNTIL THERE IS A CURE. I'm honored to be in this fight with those two great men, and I just hope that our niche will be a great resource for people

Q: Entertainment and media when used the right way can be real important and over the years from Don Cheadle's guest star in the T.V. show 'ER' to last years hit movie 'Love & Other Drugs' the issue of this disease has been raised and tackled with. How important is it that mainstream media continues to do this?

BRIAN GRANT: I think mainstream media has no choice because these issues are truly affecting the population more and more all the time. Especially as the baby boomers age, many diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's are becoming more common. Media stays relevant by imitating what is relevant in our society. We'll see a lot more of it.

Q: You have been inspired and influenced by your own idol Bob Marley throughout your life, what can you draw from that late, great legends words of wisdom in your personal battle?

BRIAN GRANT: I think finding peace within ourselves, whatever ails us, is the ultimate lesson.

Q: Well done and played with everything, truly. Can you tell us more about turning the negativity of this disease into a positive inspiration and message of hope for fellow sufferers?

BRIAN GRANT: I'm not always positive, but I know I feel a lot better about my situation on the days that I am able to be positive. We all suffer from that, no matter who we are. Powering Forward can become a mantra for everyone; not just Parkinson's patients. It's a mindset that will help people get up and keep moving.

Q: Let's talk basketball for a second. Congratulations on your jersey retirement. That must of been a real proud moment? Deserved too, what a career?

BRIAN GRANT: Thank you.

Q: Can you share with us some of your favourite NBA memories? You and Portland had a great team and time?

BRIAN GRANT: Battling Karl Malone always comes to the forefront for me. Karl and I had some great moments on the court. But this past summer, we had a great time together fishing in Alaska. A very generous donor had purchased the item at our Shake It Till We Make It auction, to go fishing with Karl and I. Not only did we all catch a huge amount of fish, but we laughed and enjoyed each other's company so much. Karl's a great guy, and I really appreciate his support.

Q: You really brought the Heat with Miami and you seemed to have developed an incredible relationship with Pat Riley. How was South Beach?

BRIAN GRANT: Pat was by far the greatest coach I ever had. I wanted to work so hard for him because I knew that he respected me for it. We have a special friendship, and I know that he's always there for me. I am forever grateful for the time I spent with the Heat and the lessons I learned from Pat and the support he continues to give me.

Q: As a Laker fan I was always worried about you and wanted you on our team and then I got my wish, what was it like to play out your final years at a high-level with some top teams?

BRIAN GRANT: I'm amazed at how many people remember me as a Laker, since I didn't see a lot of playing time there. I enjoyed playing with Kobe when I was with the Lakers, and then with Steve Nash when I was with Phoenix in my final year. I have a lot of respect for their work ethic and for what they've done for the game.

Q: What are your current thoughts about the NBA and the guys/teams you used to play with?

BRIAN GRANT: I went through a lockout during my first year in Portland and I remember just wanting to play.

Q: I believe that it's the great parts of your personality, like your passion, dedication and hard-work that have made you such a great player and inspiration to those suffering from Parkinson's disease. How do you draw strength from within and help others especially in times of personal difficulty?

BRIAN GRANT: I rely on my family and friends and I try to stay focused on our Foundation's mission. Believe me, I have my days where it's really difficult and I feel sorry for myself just like everyone else does. But having something to do that's meaningful, like raising my kids, working with our Foundation team, and being involved keeps me going.

Q: What advice can you offer to those suffering out there, those with family with Parkinson's or those looking to help?

BRIAN GRANT: First of all, please share your experiences with us through poweringforward.org . The site can only grow with your help. We want to help caregivers and family members as much as the patients themselves. All of us are in this together and we have to support one another. Second, please stay active, both with your mind and your body. Eat well and try to get some form of exercise every day. Third, become an advocate for your own care. Educate yourself about the options that are out there, which hopefully our site can help you do. Through trial and error you will find what works for you. Just don't give up. Surround yourself with people that will help you power forward!

Q: Michael J. Fox told you if you went public then it would be your "responsibility" raising awareness of this disease and you have talked about the "deep calling". You two have already done so much that everyone's is grateful for. How do the two of you plan to continue as you keep moving forward and forward?

BRIAN GRANT: I'm not sure, but I think we each have a responsibility to follow our calling. His is research; mine is living TODAY with Parkinson's until that cure is found. My hope is to continue to work in tandem with one another because both our missions are equally important to those with Parkinson’s.

Q: Brian thank you so much for your time, I appreciate it very much, its an honour. We wish you all the best health and happiness and success for your foundation. Is there any closing thoughts you'd like to share with the people?

BRIAN GRANT: Thanks for this opportunity because articles like this will raise awareness for this disease and hopefully educate people who are suffering about how they can live a better life with Parkinson's.

Brian Grant really has given everything to everything. Like his all to every team he played for from the Sacramento Kings to the Los Angeles Lakers. From being amongst the scoring and rebounding leaders for his college career at Xavier his play has been excellent and jersey retirement worthy. 'The General' has undertook any task given to him, whatever the role. Whether it be being the best backup in Phoenix or the prime time big plays from Portland to Miami. You could always find Brian doing the little things on the court in a big way, with a soul almighty like his inspiration the late Bob Marley, pardon me the great Bob Marley. Like his idol Brian Grant will not be put down, he will 'light up the darkness' and with support from another musical icon, his best friend Raphael Saadiq, B. Grant has all the best people behind him. Still it's his own depression beating, head high inner strength that will drive him forward with all its power.

This is why the same man who has had to deal with the shock of having young-onset Parkinson's since such an early age is not just solely focused on himself but has started all sorts of campaigns to raise the awareness of Parkinson's disease for a foundation of support and inspiration for all in need. This is a man who-without fear-stands face to face with any opponent whether they are more intimidating like Karl Malone (Grant sent back the Mailman's deliveries like a barking dog), much bigger like Shaquille O'Neal, (he almost took down Goliath with his 'David' Portland team) or a disease as crippling as Parkinson's.

He never backed down from an almost impossible challenge and he will face down this opponent. He is not the type of man that lies down and takes it. This is why the aptly nicknamed 'General' is taking charge of this disease, changing his diet and even his daily routines including the toothpaste he uses to try and reduce these tremors. He wants to master this disease and control his body that he has conditioned over his career to deal with the trees of the Western Conference forest. With the advice of Muhammad Ali and Michael J. Fox and the support of his loved ones he's making sure this disease wont beat him, or the other million plus sufferers in the United States alone who face it.

A few years back when Grant was interviewed about his announcement of the disorder, (despite the clear emotion that comes with an ordeal like this) he possessed the spirit of a warrior and still looked like the same man who wowed the Rose Garden with his hustle plays and thunderous dunks many seasons past. In his home, next to a portrait of Bob Marley proudly hangs a jersey from each of the teams Grant has suited up and gone to battle for. As proud as Brian is to have played for these teams, these teams are all proud that Brian was once a vital part of their unit. A real promising start in Sacramento, a warrior at his peak and a major contributor in Portland, a career year in Miami (just ask close friend Pat Riley), a big, emotionally charged contributor on a Los Angeles Lakers roster that back then so desperately needed one and a continuing of that irreplaceable, invaluable blue collar work in Phoenix. One of the West's best in recent decades, Brian went from being one of the Lakers worst opponents to face to one of their best role-players to place.

Whether it be making the All-Rookie first team in 94-95, or his great rebounding and field goal percentages, Brian Grant had the facts and figures to back up the great things that are said about him from his big dunks in Portland to his big shots in Miami. Still, however it's the immeasurable amount of energy that he brought to the teams he played for and the amount of heart that could never be quantified that made him the player, pardon me the man he was in the league. He the heart and soul of his teams and now he's that the backbone and more to this fight and hope against Parkinson's disease. It's Brian's hard working, never one, never give up, always give something more attitude that still carries today. In his darkest hour he's still that same man, bringing light over the years to his life and others. As he puts it best, his way of dealing with this disease is simple, "Just me believing in a positive spirit will take me farther in the long run". You know these words are as strong and true as his contributions to the game of basketball. We wish you all the best Brian. Thank you.

TEAM NOTES: CHARLOTTE BOBCATS & MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES

2011-09-30T02:55:00.000-07:00

Our new feature 'Team Notes' takes two related teams head to head in a scouting report analysis, this week it's the ever-improving Charlotte Bobcats and Memphis Grizzlies.

From Ashy To Classy.

By Tim David Harvey

The former expansion Charlotte Bobcats and Memphis Grizzlies are finally showing growth. The two long time cellar dwellers of the NBA may not be on their way to the high rises but they are making their way out the basement and one day could go from 'competent' to 'contender'. Let’s take a deeper look at what's changed to these Southwest and Southeast teams.

CHARLOTTE BOBCATS SUMMARY

GENERAL COMMENTS: Ever since the Hornets left their nest in North Carolina, Charlotte was seen as a city that still had the fans and facilities for another franchise. The Bobcats however failed to plant their claws in their first few seasons in the NBA. A different story is unfolding now however as the ‘cats are right now are a potential playoff team, not a pretending one. Now with the greatest player of all time taking ownership of this team, these young guys are starting to walk after years of crawling

TEAM STRENGTHS: Michael Jordan has taken control of this team and his notorious never-give-up attitude is translating to his players, even former Wizard's whipping boy Kwame Brown. Jordan has made all the tough choices and decisions that has helped his team in the clutch. Just like his time as a player. M.J. is coming up big and making something out of nothing when everything else looks lost. Take letting go of legendary coach Larry Brown and replacing him with another Charlotte legend in the form of former Hornets coach Paul Silas. The team's personnel have also sharpened their claws. Ever since they added the 'Whoo' of Stephen Jackson this team has been something to scream and holler about. From the French flair of Boris Diaw to the veteran strength of Corey Maggette. Tyrus Thomas can dunk on anybody and Eduardo Nájera is willing to muscle up with everybody. Still the post-Gerald Wallace future lies with the ceiling-bursting potential of young great Kemba Walker.

TEAM WEAKNESSES: M.J.'s boys right now seem to be taking a page out of T.I.s book, by doing all their work at home. Although they are looking a lot better in their house, they are looking as ugly as Viggo Mortensen on the road. it's time to beat this like Keourac and become consistent across the board. A 34-48 record last season at .415 was almost good for 50% but the bottom line remains that they lost 14 more games then they won. This is why they didn't make the playoffs. At last years trade deadline, the 'cats blazed some of their roster to Portland and other teams to clear cap space, now they need to get rid of some old habits too.

WHAT THEY MUST DO TO WIN: This team’s top priority is winning outside of the Time Warner. The talented rotation of that also features Joel Przybilla, D.J. White, Augustin and Matt Carroll need to remain strong throughout long, trying road trips. These tests on the road will help this young team mesh. Unity isn't just a word that Dave Chappelle’s Rick James imprinted on Charlie Murphy's forehead. It’s what will take these ‘cats to the next level.

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES SUMMARY

GENERAL COMMENTS: People had their doubts when the contract was signed and before the ink could dry the A.I. experiment didn't work out in Memphis back in 2009. This isn't a cause for concern now though as the Grizzlies have other answers. There is no questioning this team can play, from All-Star talent like Zach Randolph and Rudy Gay to young players with promise such as Mike Conley and Xavier Henry. Another positive sign is that the next star sensations, OJ Mayo and Marc ‘The Other’ Gaol haven’t suffered a slump since beyond their sophomore seasons. These guys are young veterans now, stocked with experience and potential that's being tapped more than celebrity phones. The Grizz showed more promise as they made history last season. Following a strong eight position in the playoff picture they stopped the most winningest team in the L to become only the fourth number 8 seed in NBA history to defeat a number 1 seed, and only the second time in a best-of-seven series. The legendary San Antonio Spurs and the NBA didn't know what hit them.

TEAM STRENGTHS: Unlike Charlotte this Memphis team has more wins then they have losses. You have to love a team like this. Last year when everyone was writing them off or talking LeBron, Memphis made a decision to channel their inner Elvis and show a little less conversation and more action. Now nobody want to step on these blue suede sneakers. Player wise nobody is hating either. Rudy Gay may have not been able to shoulder some injury burden last season but he's still an all-time All-Star. Mike Conley is getting even better at the starting point and they even have an exciting fast break dunker in Sam Young (youtube and Google this guy, especially his double pump against Boston) to go along with former Celtic Tony Allen's sweet jams. The Internet is spreading the phenomenon of this young team, they've got a free league pass. The Grizz even welcomed back former player and veteran great Shane Battier for a great locker-room and off-the-ball, defensive presence. Zach Randolph’s 20.1 and 12.2rpg is leading the way and after his one year bite into the rotten Knick apple, didn't taste good he’s rounding out quite nicely in Memphis (no pun intended).

TEAM WEAKNESSES: The Grizzlies share more in common with Charlotte then being better off without Allen Iverson. When it comes to playing away from home the Grizzlies still slip up like Tiger Woods. Still there was a time back in '09 when Memphis never seemed able to win more than four games at a time. Now these FedEx Forum favorites are making deliveries across America right to their opponents doors.

WHAT THEY MUST DO TO WIN: Memphis need to realise that as good it as winning in front of their city it’s important to also shake the foundations of other team’s houses. They need to keep a momentum going when winning games and stop the bleeding when it comes to going across the country. All praise is due for Memphis right now, especially with their shocking, San Antonio stunner. Realise this series was no fluke, as this team gave Durant, Westbrook and all of Oklahoma their due before valiantly bowing out. This team are not looking to bequeath anymore and they must realise there is still room for improvement, otherwise compliments won’t be the only thing this team is fishing for come playoff time next season. An eight seed is great but it's also the closest thing to elimination. Look for the Grizz to growl even louder and claw their way up the stands of contention. The only way is up, now this team are treated seriously they've got to watch for the snakes in the grass. They should only be looking up to the ladders.

It’s plain to see that Memphis and Charlotte have developed into better teams despite some growing pains. After years of trying to find the right fit they both seem to be moving forward as a team and their win records are much better for it. Both teams have a cohesive core that has cultivated a strong team identity. They are successful because they are not just about one guy but instead they are a sum of all their parts. To make noise next season though both teams’ players will have to come together even more, play better in unfamiliar territory and improve their records on the road. Then after the lockout both teams will lock it down. That's secure and for sure.

EAST COAST ROAD TRIPPIN'

2011-09-30T02:43:00.000-07:00

Some diary entries looking back when BASKETBALL 24/48/82 was in the U.S. earlier this year, travelling from New York to Miami and checking out some perennial teams in some prime match-ups.

DAY 1: Live From New York City

NEW YORK KNICKS 123-107 CLEVELAND CAVALIERS

You know when Jay-Z and Alicia Keys' 'Empire State Of Mind' epically plays to thousands of happy MSG customers as two of the leagues best players take the floor your in for a treat and things are only getting better in a city that's waited a long time for it's basketball to get on the same page as everything else in New York. If you've been a regular at Madison Square Garden you know what to expect; good food, bad prices, timeless venue, dated facilities and either floor seats where you could trip out over seeing Spike Lee, or more seats up where you can expect the third escalator to really be an expensive set of stairs. It's all however, just part of the class, character, beauty and pageantry of a Knick game.

One thing now that you thankfully don't have to expect is losses. Still the Knicks almost blew three potential whiteouts before finally blowing the Cleveland Cavaliers candles out like Gerald Green dunking in February. You see the Knicks may match up to the Heat, Bulls, Magic and even the reigning East kings North in Boston, but they have had great difficulty in beating smaller teams. Still New York got the better of Cleveland like they had signed LeBron this season, spotting them and clinching a playoff seed in the process. N.Y.'s big three of Anthony, Billups and Stoudemire's stats where all in the 20 point range as 'Melo's automatic jumpers and Mr. Billups big shots gave the Knicks the Nuggets they needed to strike gold against the Cavaliers. Sure rising rookie Landry couldn't field a dunk but Bill Walker ran down, stuffing the Cavs and that embarrassment.

Cleveland may be a bad team but they still had a good fight in them. J.J. Hickson was dunking and exploiting the Knicks bad D so much, his similar, sensational put-downs looked like a video game. Baron Davis also showed he was still number one with 11 points in around 15 seconds, you could even hear the Knicks play-by-play guy sigh before he drolly announced Davis name once again. The way B-Diddy was playing in that catalyst of a mini-Cavalier comeback he could have made his jersey number in points if his hot-streak wasn't cooled off by halftime. New York's play may have been a bit sloppy at times but hey that's Knick basketball and like a die-hard told his friend post-game "Hey they won! What more do you want?" N.Y.'s performance was good enough for the best crowd in the association, featuring hardcore, hard-to-please MSG fans and celebs like Whoopi, 50, Mayweather and that dude they lost in the first 'Hangover' movie. Even Knick, alumni legend Larry Johnson was on hand to a standing 'L'. In the end though the Knicks got the W and a wide berth on Cleveland...a playoff berth.

DAY 2: Chicago Hope

CHICAGO BULLS 97-81 BOSTON CELTICS

There's a changing wind on the East Coast right now. last night Chicago bull-dozed the sleeping Boston Celtics in the perfect prelude to the playoffs that told us one thing; this time the Bulls could run down Boston in seven games. If this epic battle will take place remains to be likely seen, but even if it doesn't last night was a Michael Jackson, a thrilling classic. March Madness turned into April absurdity as this tense, hard-fought game had the elements of a classic, college clash. For a change it wasn't just Glen Davis who was taking baby shots. All of the talented 1 through 12's that both deep teams fielded flirted between inconsistency and potentially big plays from Paul Pierce to Kyle Korver.

In this concrete-tough game it was Rose (30 points) who grew, bloomed and blossomed, thrusting a thorn in the Celtic side and pride. Derrick showed just why Kevin Durant, everyone in the United Centre (which from the 'Bullpen' to the 'Bull Market' and the fans (even the Celtic ones) and all-round entertainment throughout the arena is among the leagues best) and almost everyone with the right mind in the Association considers him M-V-P. D-Rose dished, dunked and screamed his way to victory like it was an Adidas advert as this Point Guard and his Bulls are all in for the top spot of East, taking charge and about to take the clinch. The Rondo versus Rose matchup (which more then rivals that of Deron Williams and Chris Paul) again was the highlight but Rajon and his Boston big-three just couldn't get it going like the untouchable Bulls who took more shots then Kevin Costner channelling Elliott Ness down the stairs of Union Station.

Still, through all this however the greatest moment of the night came when legend Scottie Pippen was honoured at halftime with a bronze bust from the makers of the legendary Jordan statue. It was a shame that 'His Airness' nor the about to be enshrined Rodman et al where there but this was all about Scottie who-with his family-humbly and proudly accepted his just deserves. As the underrated, unselfish, unique superstar thanked presented and legend John Paxson and the thousands of elated fans there where few dry eyes. Still after Chicago got back to the game and the final buzzer sounded 24 minutes later it turned out the real bust was Boston.

DAY 3: Miami Inked

MIAMI HEAT 100-77 BOSTON CELTICS

The Miami Heat hadn't beaten the Boston Celtics this season and in this prelude to a potential playoff-prime matchup it looked like they wouldn't again due to a cold start to the first quarter. Still thanks to three quarters, some dimes and bucks from LeBron James, some super Mario Chalmers three point money balls and a beefed up, pound for pound game from the new slim-line, 'Big Z' Ilgauskas Boston and their recent poor, post-all-star form gave in to Miami's heat. With all sorts of players in both the big-three teams also inconsistent this clash had a classic college element to it just like Boston's previous loss to the Bulls this week on our East Coast road trip.

This was a great game for everyone involved in this sell-out. From Heat legend Alonzo Mourning (who was honoured at half-time for his community work, where some of the concession hungry fans should have stayed and payed their respects to a true legend instead) to top rapper Drake, this was the best they ever had all season. Tempers also heated up in Miami as the visiting Boston side had the same technical problems like they did in the dramatic contest with other conference contender Chicago. As Wade, James and Pierce for Boston all picked up 'T's', it was clear that they where all down for their sides to the letter. Still, as the amateur dramatics squared up one too many times-when things got testy-it was clear these guys needed to grow a set...of fundamentals that is.

So LeBron led the way, adding 27 to the burn, while Wade and Bosh where also warm with 14 and 13 a piece. While for the C's, Pierce had 24, Garnett a Minnesota jersey of 21 and Allen a lucky 13, showing that right into the playoffs both teams big trios are as primed as they are passionate. A concern for Boston however is the form of Rondo (7 points) who had some difficulties at the lay-up line like he did against Chicago. Regardless Miami burnt Boston anyway giving the then reigning Eastern Conference champions some notice for the postseason, which is-however-a completely different ball-game. Dirk knew that. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

LONDON CALLING LAKERS

2011-09-26T03:22:00.001-07:00

LOS ANGELES LAKERS 92-111 MINNESOTA TIMBERWOLVES (09/04/10)

BY TIM DAVID HARVEY

Lets look back a calender year at the Lakers visit to England's capital London. This is one for the diary. These Great Britain's may have only got to see Kobe for six, scoreless minutes but fans from all over the world navigated through foggy London's rain, tube strikes and rail replacement stresses to catch a glimpse of one of Hollywood and basketball's brightest stars. Fans who payed hundreds and thousands to see him may have only received a sprinkle but what they did see instead is an underdog team beat the top dog while the doberman was in his kennel.

If this was back in the 50's than the Lakers would of been OK because Minneapolis came out on top. These two sides may share associations with the 'Land of 10,000 Lakes' but on Monday October 4th 2010 they were separated by a river of 19 points as the Minnesota Timberwolves beat the Los Angeles Lakers in an NBA Europe Live exhibition game in London 111-92. Still even in a loss the Lakers won a lot more fans, so their time overseas is worth a recap. So let's take a look. Here's how it went down.

PREGAME

Metta World Peace-then Ron Artest-is dancing like a star on the baseline during warm ups, no one can eliminate him now. The once party hard Basketball player has shed this image in order to achieve more excellence on the court with Los Angeles. In the 02 arena in London the Lakers look all business in one of the new money making staples in the NBA, the Europe Live tour. A tour that not only helps promote basketball globally but also helps the fans see the stars that are normally too far out of reach. It doesn't get much larger than life or global than Kobe Bryant and as he walks on court with an air of coolness that only comes with people like Michael Jordan or Frank Sinatra the fans go crazy. Even a glimpse almost seems worth the price of admission, but oh does everyone want more.

The Jumbo-tron is showing 'Top Ten' plays of the week from last years season. The fans go wild when Corey Brewers dunk over Derek Fisher plays. Remember the one where Fish hits the deck so hard it looks like he's been Jazzy Jeffed? Well Fisher remains unmoved by this video as he quietly hits jumper after jumper. A top play for Kobe comes up next and this seems to get him in the mood and rhythm as he works the fade away for the crowd while in his warm up sweats. Sasha Vujacic plays keepy up with the basketball, I guess the soccer fever that gripped some of the players with Chelsea FC is kicking in even more. Kobe and Kevin Love of Minnesota address the crowd before the game Kobe stating that he hopes this won't be the Lakers last trip to London. I guess taking in another Chelsea game wouldn't hurt. Than the Laker girls come in to raise the interest in basketball even more and fill in some Truman Show-esque, 'what's going on behind that screen' break in entertainment time while the teams get ready and guys like Brian Shaw go from the sweat's to the suits like Nelly.

1st Quarter

The show starts with some Magic in little time. Seconds in Kobe steals the ball and assists Lamar Odom with a dunk for the deuce that is fresh out the box like a new pair of Nikes. Luke Walton (suited up just like daddy in the late 70's) is proud. The game starts with none of the usual rust. Beasley catches and shoots on a difficult angle, Fisher picks a sweet spot and reels it in and Pau Gasol shows his strength inside, (the strength that bettered him against the Celtics) and one. Kobe attempts a few shots before being taken out midway through the first. Kobe however is as cool as Andre 3000, ice cold from the field. Odom however is hot scoring 6 in the first 6. As timeout hits and one Laker legend leaves the floor another one by surprise takes to it. Big Game James Worthy is introduced to the British fans and then is led off by the Laker girls. What a player! Shannon Brown comes in for the game and the former dunk contestant slams home a play of the game contender. Corey Brewer tries to out wow Shannon but a Pau Gasol block shows this up as a ludicrous move, 'Move B****, get out of the way' plays on the PA. At one the lakes are still at 27 apiece.

2nd Quarter

As Phil Jackson and his new beard look more like their ordering KFC than running plays a team of 'Crazy Dunkers' entertain the crowd before the 2nd, with their high flying, trampoline act. Shannon Brown cant take his eyes off it, he wants in. He does the opposite of the Staples Centre floor in the 02 lighting up in the 2nd. New Laker Steve Blake also looks strong for the Lakers hitting from all angles, whether acute or obtuse. Kobe, however is playing throwback Ronny Turiaf, congratulating and cracking jokes on the pine, logging no time.

Corey Brewer drives home a breakaway dunk to drill home the fact that Minny are within 1 (41-42) with 5 minutes to go in the half. Derek Fisher is sitting next to Kobe glad he wasn't underneath that one. Odom drives to the basket but is fouled by Kevin Love's blocking. There's no love for Kev however as he hits the deck, hard. There's little love as well for Arsenal Football club, who's players are in attendance. I guess the London faithful are with Kobe on this one. The Lakers rookies are showing up. Devin Ebanks is impressing more than he did on the layup line going in for a strong and 1. From the nosebleeds this number 3, athletic, swingman almost makes it look like Trevor Ariza never left. With hard work, hustle and an impressive bank shot from Ebanks in the second period the Lakers seem to be cashing in on this talent.

Darko Millic is playing hard making 'I'm Still Here' plays even if some of his shots are about as good a look as Joaquin Phoenix's beard. Lamar Odom put on an exhibition en route to 17 Points, 6 Rebounds and 3 Steals proving that he wasn't treating this game like an exhibition. Now nobody should call this man lazy. Another written off player Michael Beasley proved key with 24 points off the bench. Late in the 2nd quarter Michael hit a shot reminiscent of Michael. There are chants for Kobe from deep mobs in the crowd as the game reaches a quiet storm. As the seconds tick down and the backboard illuminates red Trey Johnson scores the rock off the roll but doesn't beat the buzzer. No dice. Halftime!

3rd Quarter

As most fans head for hot dogs and merchandise an illusionist and his assistant perform for those still in attendance. Their old school magic is still classic like Earvin with that wonderment and amazement. As the 3rd act starts Sasha is in for Kobe and Artest is hustling for everybody. There's no lull in the third as Lamar Odom shakes and bakes and then crosses Beasley. LO leaves B on the floor stepping over him carefully but like Iverson over Tyronne Lue. Odom than kicks it out for Fisher who is as clear as the Hudson but hesitates and is rejected by that 'bust' Darko Milcic. Next play down the floor though Fisher takes the bait again but this time sinks the line. Back down on the other side of the floor and down low Darko posts up impressively before going up for air. I guess the boom is over. Still Wesley Johnson throws in an alley oop and the fans begin to see that they’ve neglected the fact that Minnesota is leading 65-58.

WHERE'S KOBE? Right now he's missing and in demand like Bill Clinton on the new NBA Jam commercials showing on the Jumbotron. The Lakers second option Gasol is also not looking as perfect as he was in practice but the Lakes are still in the show. Minny point Luke Ridnour works the new school pick and roll with Beasley, hitting him behind the back for the assist on the open 3. Then off a steal he wipes the ball off the glass to Johnson for the dunk. Even Artest has to give it up, you can’t stop that. Then Barnes comes in for Ron one enigmatic, controversial, former thorn in Kobe's side, defensive player deserves another. The score is 78-65, Timberwolves. This is no mini run in the third quarter, it's a Minny run. The action is still punctuated by chants for Kobe but his knee is Ruben Patterson.

The Lakers second and third units begin to lack cohesion. Sasha's clear for three but isnt open for business. The Lakers need a spark, so they plug in Shannon Brown, who re-enters the game to a half Kobe ovation. As the Kobe cheers get louder Kobe flashes that Michael Jordan smile and for just a second it looks like he's going to shed his warm ups. The Lakers sure need him as this new look Minnesota team are leaving the Lake show lost in the woods like Kanye West sampling Bon Iver. Minnesota are playing like a monster team-no one man wolf pack, no Alan-while the Lakers are looking a little hungover. Los Angeles sober up however with a Barnes burner from the corner and a follow up to close the gap to 87-74.

4th Quarter

The iPhone’s and Blackberry’s are on pause as Kobe remains on ice. Surely he's not about to return now, coming into the game cold, risking another injury. The show must go on however and Brown and Barnes work some 80's Forum magic. It all seems a little too late however. Most Lakers are polishing pine and when Barnes slaps the ball in frustration it can be heard in the upper decks, the Lakers aren’t playing their full hand. There are more Kobe chants, and those smiles again, complete with raised eyebrows, he loves it, the fans don’t, both parties want to dance. The game begins to get real scrappy beyond the meat. The Lakers take too many steps, elementary stuff as the master gets schooled by the pupil. Than Matt Barnes gets messy around the hoop and really wishes his layup was a pass as Brown clears the table for him. It's just one of those bad days at the office. At 9:02 it's Minnesota 92, Los Angeles 78.

The Lakers try to run. Blake to Brown for the bucket but Blake is a little too fast and a little too offensive as the referee charges the foul. With 5:58 the Lakers 58th pick in this year’s draft adds some 'character' to the Lakers D, blocking twice to try and keep Hollywood acting in this picture. All the times that Derrick Caracter has practiced with defensive maestro Theo Ratliff have seem to have paid off for the young buck. The Laker girls come in for some real entertainment while NBA legend Bruce Bowen is sitting courtside complete with a cold and an even colder bowtie. Even the Lakers would want their old rival to shed his bowtie and suit up right now. The Lakers cant blame Bruce Bowen on Kobe being locked down this time however. Back on court Gasol throws down a dunk that the good Doctor J ordered in an attempt to breathe life into himself and his team. Still however the Lakers are getting caught in a Webster of 24 silky smooth points from Martell.

As the 5 minute to go mark arrives Minnesota hit Taco country, reaching 100 points while the Lakers are yet to make 90. Now Ridnour is making baskets look like a piece of cake en route to this lottery team blowing out the defending champion. As fans begin to walk out to beat the traffic and the tube strikes the game draws to a close. The players drop the ball and embrace before the final seconds run down. So the brethren of thousands in its purple and gold in the 02 may have left the game disappointed but that one Minnesota fan in attendance will be undoubtedly happy. The Timberwolves made a great star to both their Europe tour and their underrated season (they tested the Lakers again) but as the Lakers travel East to Barcelona they hoped to get things right, although they lost again in what would end up being a losing season. A lockout year later and Pau is heading back to Barcelona to hone his game. It's funny how things work out sometimes. Expect this Spanish bull and the Lakers to be back though after this European vacation some stars are taking to show the Dallas Mavericks and the rest of the NBA that the honeymoon is over. Then when the Lakers are back at full strength, they'll be no joke and it'll really be no fun and games, forget the lockout. TIM DAVID HARVEY

PEARL JAM

2011-09-23T02:57:00.000-07:00

The iconic ten.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

"That's for Mookie". Eddie Vedder, frontman of Pearl Jam on the title of their classic, debut album; 'Ten'.

Legendary grunge-rock outfit Pearl Jam recently celebrated 20 years of music with a movie, book and live show. From early photo's of band members rocking jersey's put out by Michael, to posters of a young Charles Barkley dunking on their walls in the early days photos it's clear these hoop heads where influenced by the peach and the basket. The cult, iconic act even have a legendary debut album by the name of 'Ten', a tribute to the jersey number of former ball player Mookie Blaylock, which was the bands name before legal action and the days the Point Guard became a fan of the band.

Mookie is a cult icon beyond the hardwood beyond one of Seattle and America's best band. The former New Jersey, Atlanta and Golden State guard. Google the name and you'll also look up the Tom Robbin's novel 'Half Asleep in Frog Pajamas' where the central character of the tale Larry Diamond goes by Mookie Blaylock's name during hotel stays...hey, we've all done it. Even in an episode of the cartoon 'Homestar Runner' an Umpire tells an Announcer that Mookie Blaylock gave him the ball. This guard sure does get along with all these pop culture references. Now what made this all-star guard so popular?

Sure the name's great, but so was the game. This dominant player played opponents close like butter plays toast, or Biggie played hunny's. This darling defender was B.I.G. Too, notorious for being a stopper. Even Michael Jordan could get it. Daron Oshay "Mookie" Blaylock was the real deal in his no luck 13 years in the league. His hard work defined his time and tenure at the helm of three teams. The Texan, 12th pick of the '89 draft out of Oklahoma College helped define nighties basketball in terms of popularity and prosperity. He was your all-star, steady veteran and consistent performer that showed that as well as him the league that Magic and Bird made popular was here to stay in the forefront of cult culture.

This push-and-pass point guard, kept pushing and moving on up like Curtis Mayfield as the assists and minutes totals missed the snakes and hit the ladders. This was no board game, Mookie was dedicated to the hardwood and his teammates and his time and unselfish play can attest to. He robbed the league of nothing but the steals records as he regularly hit those charts in the nighties like a different M.J. hit the music ones. This former Atlanta Hawk was that type of bird on defensive and his eagle eye and quick hands helped him get his talons on 200 or more steals in five seasons which helped garner him two, deserved NBA All-Defensive first-team selections. he also led the league in steals like legends Alvin Robertson, Magic Johnson, Allen Iverson and Chris Paul two years in a row. Now tell me who owns the ball?

Don't front on this guys offensive skills either. This guy had a great set that he could even take it to Mike as well as take it from him. He was more than a competent outside shooter, especially in the clutch and this big-time player dished and brought as much to the table as he took, being among the leagues most affordable dime men. The record books and the memory banks recognise this fast break starter brought the show during his time. He started his own team and stopped the other. he won and lost games, it all went through him. This true Point Guard took charge of his teams and lead them with a matrimony of offence and defence, for better or worse.

From ruling the NCAA with Stacey King to having the best brought out of him by legend, Lenny Wilkens and then being traded for like-minded, big-time player in reserve Jason Terry, Mook has had an impact on fellow players the game and so much more. He's in top all-time categories from the 100's to the 20's for his steals, minutes and three's and he still holds the record in the ATL for steals (1,321) and three pointers taken (3,023) and made (1,050). Told you this 6 foot, 180 pound guy was big.

From 'NBA Jam' to 'NBA Live' this guy was a real selection, in the game like EA but more than a video game player. He really took it to opponents necks, wrapping around them like a pearl necklace, this thief had a way with the ball. With a game so silky smooth to the touch of the rock. Like another pearl, Earl Monroe, Blaylock was a top guard. Sure unlike the N.Y. legend he was no 'Black Jesus' but he was still a disciple of the game and he played by the book with every chapter and verse of his praised career. Even when he finished his NBA time off the bench in Oakland, like a true warrior he still had plenty in reserve with no substitute. That was Mookie. One and only. Ten out of ten.

Once this guy entered the league and our consciousness with his even flow his dedication was deep with every release, trip to the garden and jam finishing, break starting play that took it to the other teams porch. The legend of this number ten is still kept alive today like a Pearl Jam song and album and even if some people don't know the name Mookie Blaylock, the legacy lives on.

FRAIZER GAME

2011-09-20T08:04:00.000-07:00

A real icon.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

The infamous steel carriages of the New York subway are chugging towards their downtown destination. Some laced with graffiti, others shine in all their silver sheen. Inside one of the cars two young New York Knickerbocker fanatics dressed head to toe in that old Knick gear-that will one day make Mitchell and Ness rich-look bemused towards a man on the other side of the L-train dressed too good for the orange and yellow plastic carriage. He almost stands out on this train like Eddie Murphy in 'Coming To America', he almost looks like a pimp. The confused pair of fans laugh nervously with intrigue as this man shifts his crossed leg over to the other. Decked in slacks, the finest Italian footwear and a coat that leaves people asking; 'what is that mink'? The man raises the brim of his 'Bonnie and Clyde' hat to reveal-between some classic mutton chops-the biggest grin. He knows something the fans don't know, sparks fly and illuminate this man as the train pulls into Penn Station.

The coolest dressed man in lower Manhattan leads everyone out the subway as the two fans follow him like his name was the pied piper. This dude has swagger and not to mention the coolest walk these guys have ever seen. The fans follow this man to their same destination; Madison Square Garden, it's gameday. As the two fans try to keep up they are stopped by security who points them to where they need to go. As the wooden gates of the elevator are pulled around this man he tips his hat and gives them a wink with his smile still intact. The two fans do that 'if she looks back it means something' stare as the man disappears to the heavens almost in smoke. They make their own slog upstairs as they head to their upper tier seats that would have given them nosebleeds if it wasn't for the journey to the top of the Garden doing so instead.

As the two fans hustle and push for their seats between those fans who have taken their kids and those who have taken their share of concessions they settle down and take turns on the binoculars watching the action on court. One fan focuses on a figure on court that looks familiar. "I'd recognise that walk anywhere" he says to himself. "Isn't that?" The PA announcer interrupts him and takes the words right out of his mouth. "Into the game for the New York Knickerbockers, number 10 Walt Fraizer". The fan can't believe it, in embarrassment he looks up to the rafters of the Mecca, the same rafters that will one day be the home to the same number 10 jersey...but not yet. Right now it's the seventies and it's Walt Fraizer's time. The Rolls Royce will take him to the next game, Clyde's not playing anymore. He's a class act above the rest. The king of the court and the king of cool. Playground players may have duked it out to determine by word of mouth who was the best, but they needed to stop talking. Walt wore the crown and it went pretty nice with his suit.

Long before Amar'e Stoudemire gave the heart of this city hope again and before the last bead of Patrick Ewing sweat was moped up off this MSG floor. Way, way before the Carmelo Anthony trade brought the promise of the return of the glory days to N.Y. Basketball, Walt Fraizer was the man that gave this town those same glory days. Making headlines with his New York times, taking the back page to the front page. Standing out like than the bright lights of Times Square on New Years, a shining icon in this big city. Bringing magic to New York like a Sinatra song on Christmas day, bringing the magic to the hardwood before Earvin did. Playing like he could own the blacktop's of the Rucker. A true New York legend. Rising like the steam out the grids on a December morning, smelling better then the nuts and dogs they serve on the street corners. Food for thought; this man brought the five boroughs of New York to the core of the Big Apple in the Garden. Adam's and Eve's all came for a bite, date night became fan night. Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Manhattan and the rest of the world all came to watch 'Clyde the glyde' swoop up steals and fly.

Willis Reed and that legendary ankle may have been a hero, but Walt Fraizer is New York basketball's saviour (and had 36 points and 19 assists in the same finals winning game that crowned the injured Reed). Earl 'The Pearl' Monroe may have been smooth as hell and the dubbed 'Black Jesus' but the sharply dressed and game honed Walt was more than a style icon, he had substance, he was a basketball God. Basket after basket, legacy after legend, influencing the culture-change of the game before the Jordan's, the Kobe's and the Iverson's. Fraize' had the answers, changing and guarding the throne. He earned more than style points, he was more than just a player. Clyde was cold as ice, but hot as hell. Jerry West and Elgin Baylor's temperament would have found it hard to match his temperature. Walt was cool as a cucumber, helping putting games in Chick Hearn's fridge, bringing showtime to the New York times side. With a Chrysler tall ceiling and an empire state of mind. New York, New York belonged to the man with two names. His game never rested, never to be slept on. 'Down goes Fraizer'...never that. Basketball's heavyweight rolled with all the punches.

Fresh out of the ATL, Georgia brown Walt helped give David T. Howard High School it's name (not literally however, let's give respect where respect's due) and took things higher in college, giving a basketball education in Southern Illinois, before being selected as the famous five in the '67 draft ready to make his Manhattan moments sports memories. Two rings (the only for this legendary but unlucky Knick franchise), seven all-stars and defensive accolades, a retired jersey and a 'NBA 50th Anniversary All-Time Team' honour to go with his cool, savvy play later and Walt Fraizer re-wrote history. He also wrote the book on cool...literally. Check the reference.

His style was signature, his stardom was autographed and his legend engraved down the Hall of Naismith's inscriptions. Sure he wasn't the logo but this icon's legacy still lasts today. From Puma releasing anniversary editions of this legendary cat's kicks, to die-hard Knick fan Spike Lee naming one of his Denzel Washington characters in 'Inside Man'; Fraizer (mixed with Mets legend Keith's first). He spelt the name right too, Fraizer with a 'Z'. A little inside, real recognises real. Are you familiar? The most famous 'Fraiser' in America is not played by Kelsey Grammer. Are you listening? You can hear more from Clyde these days as he provides colour commentary to this generations 'bockers with perfect rhyme, in perfect time. Being a spokesman for this game with the same poetry that made him the player he was and the one-of-a-kind man he still is today. His legend still stands like his assist record. Making him a fan favourite from past, to present and future. This is Walt Fraizer. This is New York basketball.

WORLD B. FREE

2011-09-18T10:01:00.000-07:00

Artest-less development.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Sometime back in the Sixties legendary sports anchor Howard Cosell was interviewing his close personal friend and the greatest figure in sporting history; Muhammed Ali about his refusal to declare for the draft to go fight in the Vietnam war. An interview that was depicted by Jon Voight and Will Smith in Michael Mann's movie 'Ali'. There was a mutual respect between these two men and it was highlighted at a time Ali's legend was under controversial scrutiny. During the interview Cosell made the mistake of calling Ali by his former name Clay saying, "Cassius, in my opinion". "My name ain't Cassius Clay. That is a slave name, and I am a free man. I am Muhammad Ali," the greatest declared. "You know, I apologize. I apologize to you on the air. Your name is Muhammad Ali. You have a right to be called whatever you want. I apologize to you.". You have a right to be called whatever you want.

Ron Artest...wait I apologise, I apologise to you in this article. Metta World Peace you have a right to be called whatever you want. You have the right to do whatever you want and be whatever and whoever you want to be. I mean besides Lloyd Bernard Free changed his name to World B. Free due to his aerial amazing antics in the NBA and NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson legally changed his his to his 85 jersey number in Spanish to Ochocinc. Hey even music legend Prince changed his name to everything from The Artist, TAFKAP and a symbol.

Metta it's not only the courts that recognise your name, we do too and no traffic tickets are going to restrict that. Not that you need our validation but we respect and accept your decision, your Buddhist beliefs and the personal reasons behind them. Sure in some ways you'll always be Ron Artest to us, but your Metta World Peace now.

"Changing my name was meant to inspire and bring youth together all around the world," you told us. Your name meaning loving and kindness toward all, what you have continued to show. Just like how your love and kindness has helped you become an amazing advocate for mental health, being a face and an aid for those in need. Turning your past problems in solutions for not just yourself but other. Taking advantage of your celebrity in a way that benefits others raising awareness like you raise spirits.

Raising spirits like you to everyday from your tweets to the character of your interview soundbites. Raising spirits and enthusiasm from the locker room to your invitational events for the public. Your boundless energy that keeps you and us going. Like your rap records that keep us moving, your stand up that keeps us amused or your Dancing with the Stars that keep us entertained. All your energy that allows you to indulge in so many off- court activities but never effects your productivity on court.

The type of productivity that made you a Defensive Player of the Year in Indiana. The type of productivity that made you a star from Sacramento to Houston. The type of productivity that has helped your Los Angeles Laker team achieve two championships, behind your dominating D, hustle and warrior like attitude. The type of enthusiasm and play that has made you turn ill-advised shots-that others would be too scared to take-into game-winners. The type of play that translates into a game that demands respect. The type of respect that takes you from one of Kobe Bryant's biggest rivals to one of his best friend. In the past he knew you only a Artest, now like us all he calls you by your first name, your new government name; Metta.

Metta you really have changed and come a long way, from Hennesy half times to full purity. From brawling in Detroit to motoring on and fighting to make amends. You've dared to be different and your brave and bold behaviour is a gamble that has played off. Metta World Peace is more than just a statement, it's an inspiring declaration of love, unity and most of all peace. It's more than what some see as egotistical, it's something that inspires confidence in everybody. Some people may see it as strange but like you said if they hate on you they can't say 'F%$# World Peace'. You see now they can't touch you or the positive notion. Metta World Peace is more than just a statement...it's you. It's offical.

TAKING IT TO THE DVD RACK

2011-09-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

NBA history live in your living room.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

OK, so if basketball movies aren't your cup of tea and you still need to cure those lockout blues how's this for a brand of cognac? Over the years the NBA has released it's fair share of DVDs so which ones should make your rack? What follows is a definitive DVD menu of those 'where amazing happens' moments so legendary that they had to be recorded and kept in the library of basketball history.

ULTIMATE JORDAN: Time to call in sick to work for a week as 6 discs and 15 hours of the greatest basketball player and sportsman that ever lived will take you through it. From classic games from the 'flu game' to the 'last shot' (sorry Utah fans you'll be left lost like James Franco in '127 Hours') to documentaries like 'Come Fly With Me' and hours of real special features. Time for all your other plans to be cancelled.

KOBE DOIN' WORK: Spike Lee has directed some classic films from 'Mo Better Blues' to 'Inside Man' and 'Do The Right Thing' to basketball drama 'He Got Game'. Still when the die-hard New York Knick fan Spike went coast to coast and put over 30 camera's and a narrators microphone on Kobe that's when his movie moments really became legendary. As Kobe takes us through his Hollywood game from confusing his opponents-by talking plays with his teammates like Gasol in other languages-to the reason he constantly rubs his hands on his jersey, this is informative as it is cinematic in all the black and white, jazzy Lee trademark cinematography.

LOS ANGELES LAKERS 2008-2009/2009-2010 NBA CHAMPIONS: From Ariza to Artest, Derek Fisher clutch bucket to lutch basket and Kobe's celebratory leap to round up court celebrate the Lakers latest double up with these back-to-back DVD's.

LOS ANGELES LAKERS-THE COMPLETE HISTORY: Or why not take the greatest six disc trip down Laker memory lane from Shaq all the way back to Mikan? This DVD is big like Wilt, Magic like Johnson and cool as the ice of Jerry West. It's an epic marathon of history that may leave you needing Kareem goggles after watching.

MAGIC JOHNSON-ALWAYS SHOWTIME: Fun and entertaining just like the man himself. Earvin 'Magic' Johnson's story will amaze you like his passes (the opening highlight montage is incredible) and even leave you shedding a tear or 32. This is a one of a kind story of a one in a million personality narrated with class by Danny Glover. Time to really be told about the Lakers most lethal weapon.

LARRY BIRD-A BASKETBALL LEGEND: Or how about some of Larry's legend? His story and his amazing behind the back passes are just as good as Magic. The tricks of this Boston blue collar's trade is shown in all it's Celtic Pride. You'll love it even if your a Laker fan (my hand is up).

ALLEN IVERSON-THE ANSWER: An incredibly interesting look at the most enigmatic, entertaining figure the league has seen. From the tattoo's to the Larry Brown feuds there's things you know and then there's things you don't, like just how good this man was at football in college. In the dawn of the new millennium all eyes where on this man and basketballs answer to Tupac Shakur makes this a must watch DVD.

SUPER SLAMS OF THE NBA/SUPER SLAMS 2: The ultimate highlight montage. Every great dunk you could think of from the nighties past with player profiles and even some greatest misses for comic relief. These greatest hits collections get even better when dunking pioneer Julius Erving presents the second DVD.this right prescription is just what the good Dr. J ordered.

KEVIN GARNETT-KG: We already know Kevin Garnett's story is amazing and inspirational, but this very personal DVD (narrated by Da Kid himself) takes us even deeper. From the Minnesota lows to the Boston highs you'll remind yourself of how much this man deserves to be where he is and the early morning, beach workout scenes show just how true a warrior is. The most honest and emotional part of this film comes when K.G. talks about the loss of his dear friend and teammate Malik Sealy, a true talent taken too soon. Truly moving.

SHAQUILLE O'NEAL-LIKE NO OTHER: The only thing that's bigger or more entertaining then this DVD is the daddy himself. Filmed during the day Shaq's talents where in South Beach, O'Neal talks life and basketball. With highlights to remind you of just how good he was and appearances in the community to show you just how genuine there is. There's truly no one like him, the NBA's biggest icon.

AND 1 MIXTAPE 6: Time to take it to the streets. This is actually a VHS lying about the house but still makes for a great tape highlighting the skills of this talent class in a league of their own. This particular mixtape features a profile of the Black Widow who's web of style can't be bitten.

STREETBALL-THE AND 1 MIXTAPE TOUR: Or if that isn't street enough for you then how about this And 1 Tour round the U.S. taking all sorts of states and classy cities. From the love of the fans you can really see how legendary these stars are and the bonus disc features a full length And 1 game featuring NBA star and blacktop legend Rafer 'Skip To My Lou' Alston and some Hot Sauce to go. A player who gives us the best highlight by crossing over a floppy-haired, smart suit, glasses wearing business man on the street. He breaks his ankles and creases his chinos.

LIGHTS OUT: If you like your highlights with added shine then this NBA reel is the amazing choice you need to happen. This set goes in depth and behind scenes with interviews and spotlights on everybody from A.I. to Mike or some extended trips with Air Canada. There's a lot of Hollywood moments too from Robert Horry clutching at victory and Kobe Bryant's Babe Ruth attitude as he swings for 81. There's also magic from...well Magic. This truly is showtime. Lights out! TIM DAVID HARVEY.

COURT ON CAMERA

2011-09-16T17:26:00.000-07:00

Where Hollywood happens.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Cinematic worthy moments happen in this sport all the time. Still, Basketball movies aren't as half-bad as the people who have watched Shaq in 'Kazaam' or Dennis Rodman in 'Double Team' make out. Here's a look at some of the best or at least most entertaining that will give you some basketball action during this lockout. Expect more titles to be added soon.

ABOVE THE RIM: Tupac Shakur continued to show he was a great actor as well as rapper in this movie that also stars the late, great Bernie Mac. Marlon Wayans (except more of them) brings the comedy but this picture has something serious to say too with standout performances from Leon Robinson, Duane Martin and a stellar soundtrack featuring 2Pac's 'Pain'.

THE BASKETBALL DIARIES: In one of Leonardo DiCaprio's youngest and greatest performances he gives us a brutally honest take on the effects of drug abuse in sports and the youth. Sure basketball is a back-story here but it's not the real issue that needs to be addressed. With great support from Mark Wahlberg and Juliette Lewis this movie slam dunks all over Hollywood shine and censorship.

O: Basketball again serves as the backdrop in this brilliant modern take on Shakespeare's 'Othello' that rivals DiCaprio's 'Romeo + Julliett' in the creativity and integrity courts. Mekhi Phiffer is incredible as 'O', a high-school basketball star and success to be but it's pretty boy, turned good actor Josh Hartnett that pulls all the strings. The bard would be proud.

G.O.A.T.-THE LEGEND OF EARL MANIGULT: Don Cheadle helps tell the story everyone needs to hear about a legend on the street who never made it to the NBA. This frank, moving and insightful story begins with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar telling Chick Hearn that his most difficult opponent was 'the Goat' and then we see the legend on the streets fiending for drugs. With clinical performances from 'ER's' Eriq La Salle and Michael Beach this is a medical issue that can't be ignored. There's some double dunk, quarter off the backboard legend here too. The most entertaining, shiver down the spine moment comes at the Rucker when Wilt Chamberlain (played well here by star Kevin Garnett) dunks on the Goat and stares down at him, boasting; "welcome to the big leagues schoolboy". The Goat responds by fading away from the stilt and back-pedaling down court proclaiming; "Welcome to Harlem...mother#@$%*#"!

COACH CARTER: Samuel L. Jackson teaches a band of brothers how to really play this game and be men, in this educating, game of life, modern-day classic. The sublime performances match the scoring soundtrack throughout and Jackson's never been better in this action. Part 'Remember The Titans' but setting it's own path and legacy this true, legendary story of Carter is loved and influential and inspiring to coaches and teachers alike.

FINDING FORRESTER: Before Rob Brown was being taught the game by 'Coach Carter' he was writing history with Sean Connery. This inspiring, coming of age, wise worded tale is New York's answer to 'Good Will Hunting'. Expect some Madison Square Garden moments too. This belongs in the mecca of underrated, all-round movies. Connery gives us a classic and even Busta Rhymes helps wrap things up right.

HE GOT GAME: This is the legendary one that made Ray Allen an icon as Jesus Shuttlesworth. Ray proved he could do more then hold his own on court as he starred in this classic Spike Lee and Denzel Washington show. This love for the game, rags and riches tale truly plays for it's freedom. Rosario Dawson also stars as does player turned actor Rick Fox and a couple of prostitutes.

GLORY ROAD: Alicia Keys helped score a sensational soundtrack to a real, genuine re-telling of the true story of how a college basketball team overcame racism and all forms of competition for the truest victory. This is stunning, chilling, moving and inspiring and almost puts 'Coach Carter' in his place. Your with it until the end and you'll feel exhausted, elated and a member of this team in this formidable film that brings everyone together.

LIKE MIKE: OK, the idea of Lil Bow Wow playing like the greatest when he finds a pair of Jordan's airs is ridiculous. Still when you combine Morris Chesnut, that cute kid from Jerry Maguire and a roll call of classic cameos from NBA stars are you not entertained? From blocking gladiator Alonzo Mouring to being begged for autographs from Dirk Nowitzki and Steve Nash this is downright stupid...but funny.

SPACE JAM: Still if you prefer your Mike's real then follow Jordan down the 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit' hole as he plays with Bugs Bunny and all your favourite Warner Brothers. Disney missed out on this one. Sure its a mickey mouse film that Bill Murray called his worst but he, Larry Bird and a bunch of cartoon characters brought the laughs as Mike brought the charm and money to the table as he showed why he was the worlds biggest star. The kids loved it too and at least Charles Barkley promised he'd never date Madonna again.

WHITE MEN CAN'T JUMP: Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes take shots at each other and racial barriers in this groundbreaking and entertaining comedy. Set in the legendary courts of Los Angeles, the action of these Venice Beach boys look as good as Rosie Perez.

FORGET PARIS: Billy Crystal gives us a funny take on the NBA as a referee who goes to Paris and finds love. This is standard romantic comedy stuff and Crystal gold but what sets it apart are the on court scenes with all the stars of the NBA from the nighties. From Reggie Miller to Muggsy Bouges these are the best, classic cameo's from basketball players on film.

CELTIC PRIDE: Back in the nighties again, Daniel Stern and Dan Aykroyd, two die-hard Boston fans kidnap Utah Jazz star Damon Wayans (remember this is just the movies) so that the Larry Bird-less (he makes a classy cameo) Celtics have a fighting chance in the finals. This film isn't just funny, it reminds you of why you love this game. A young Judd Apatow showed he could write a great and funny basketball movie, showing what was to come next.

SEMI-PRO: Woody Harrelson (you can also see him playing pickup with Justin Timberlake currently in 'Friends With Benefits') re-laces his sneakers and joins Andre 3000's 'Coffee Black' on Will Ferrell's comedic court as the comic genius drops another classic. Portraying the fictional Flint Tropics this is a very real and amusing look at the most entertaining league in basketball history; the ABA. Bears at halftime and other Evil Knievel stunts, this sort of stuff actually happened. You must see this one for a bit of comedy and history. Let's get tropical.

JUST WRIGHT: When top rapper Common was younger he used to mop up the sweat of Michael Jordan and others in the Chicago Bulls in the United Centre, but in this movie for the New Jersey Nets he shows he can do what most rappers want to do and ball. There's cameo's from Dwight, Dwyane and the Rucker, while Robin Thicke's other half Paula Patton gives the word 'beauty' it's significance. Still it's the love and basketball between Common and rap legend/movie star Queen Latifah that hits the shot. Game over. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

READ TO ACHIEVE: BOOK CLUB

2011-09-15T16:49:00.000-07:00

A reference to the definitive reading list.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

With Jerry West's highly anticipated, long-awaited autobiography ('West by West: My Charmed, Tormented Life') just a month away our new 'Read To Achieve' feature takes you through the library of some classic basketball reads. Take what you please, just make sure you return in October for the review.

FREEDARKO PRESENTS THE UNDISPUTED GUIDE TO PRO BASKETBALL HISTORY: A different but delightful look at the history of roundball, written with passion and compassion and illustrated with style and substance. Pure poetry and art comes out of every page. This book is full of tidbits and great tales that you may have not heard. Such as the time after a Latrell Sprewell and Chris Webber Nike advert mocked C-Webb's dunk on Charles Barkley, Sir Chuck dropped 57 in a game on both players and backpedaled past their bench and yelled; "put that in a commercial". Need any more advertising for this book?

HOOPS: A big, beautiful photo album that takes you through the history of the National Basketball Association with perfect portraits of everyone from Wilt Chamberlain to Kevin Garnett. This book says a thousand words.

NBA COACHES PLAYBOOK: For coaching candidates and promising purists alike this textbook is the perfect study and revision of all basketball plays from Tex Winter's infamous triangle to Kareem's notorious sky hook. Why? Because they and every other legend of the NBA dry-erase writes these chapters you should constantly go back to for inspiration like Bible verses.

50 AMAZING YEARS IN THE CITY OF ANGELS: Young writers looking for inspiration need this book like those who bleed purple and gold. From the style of legendary Pulitzer prize winner and basketball story-teller Jim Murray to all the definitive articles and portraits of Laker success. This truly is the words of the Los Angeles Times.

SHAQ TALKS BACK: Shaq's autobiography-written during his L.A. days is funny, frank, insightful and inspirational. The man who can make you laugh and see his point too really has something to say and if that isn't enough his Hollywood nights have some telling tales of everyone from Leonardo DiCaprio to Robert Downey Jnr.

WHEN THE GAME WAS OURS: Who better to speak on the rivalry, friendship, force and revolution that was Magic and Bird in the eighties then the men themselves? This dual autobiography really keeps Larry and Johnson together with stories better than what Grandmama could tell you. A slam dunk hit as the two come-together converse like their sneaker deal.

SHOOTING STARS: LeBron James takes it back to the glory days of High School with the 'Friday Night Lights' of Buzz Bussinger and some old Irish. Revealing, real, nostalgic and nice this locker room talk of the high school days just shows this dynasty maker that to know where your going you have to know where you came from.

DRIVE-THE STORY OF MY LIFE: Bird's first autobiography takes the reader from the French Lick to the battles with Magic. The tricks of the Celtics legends trade is told in the pages of a perfect and precise pronouncement. This book plays out like Larry Legend's career, big, bold-at times boastful-but always beautiful. This blue-collar book is anything but hard work.

DRIVEN FROM WITHIN: Michael Jordan and Nike team up for a photo book/quote by quote autobiography that has an air of awe-inspiring influence. It looks great but don't think the style of this success story makes the substance give way. Inspirational and motivational quotes have only been greater in Muhammed Ali's 'The Soul Of A Butterfly' or the letters that make up Martin Luther King's autobiography.

MY LIFE: We picked this book up on from a side street seller in New York for two dollars but in reality it's worth it's weight in millions shipped. Earvin Johnson shows he's got the Magic for writing too with the tales of the tricks of his trade. A book as entertaining, enigmatic, magnificent, moving, inspiring, insightful, influential, and as real as the man himself.

THE ART OF A BEAUTIFUL GAME: Chris Ballard's book of this brilliant game of basketball is a beautiful ballad of sports writing. Every chapter is like a separate sonnet of praise to all the in's and out's and idiosyncrasies of different facets of the workings of legendary players minds and games. From Kobe Bryant's killer instinct to Steve Kerr's shot it's all here and it's never been told or explained better.

THE LAST SEASON-A TEAM IN SEARCH OF A SOUL: Coach Phil Jackson's classic and controversial book about basically the season of Shaq and Kobe's break-up drew rave-reviews and ravenous readers. It's revealing and honest, thorough and forthright as everything is taken to task with a gentleman's class. Sure as Phil and Kobe got back together in the name of two Larry O'Brien's some now render this book insignificant, but this story serves as more than a footnote to the careers of both Bryant and Jackson, plus many more too.

CHARACTER DRIVEN-LIFE, LESSONS & BASKETBALL: Derek Fisher's story extends further then the range of one if the Lakers and the leagues most legendary clutch playing, role-players. His life and times feature more hardship and positive looks towards inspiration than a Jay-Z song sampling 'Annie'. OK, boys and girls this man may have spent his career in the shadow of today's best Kobe, but even the greatest wouldn't have had half the hits without his perfect producer in his corner. Derek Fisher's tale is one that needs to be told. Are you sitting comfortably?

KAREEM: They say he's too closed off, but Cap really opens here. They say he's boring, but Kareem will make you laugh. They say he's dull, but this big-book has colour. They even dared to say he doesn't have a lot of love, but this book has as much heart as it does soul. Arguably the greatest basketball player turned writer gets shows so much personality in his most personal piece of published prose.

THE WINNER FROM WITHIN: From the cover to the preface this book looks like a self-help guide and in a lot of ways it is. Still, Pat Riley's autobiography is as slick, serious and sincere as the legendary coach and man himself. This book will inspire and influence you like no other but it will also tell you all about this one in a million, genuine guy. To hear the story of his whole life within and beyond basketball is to help take you further with yours and learn a little something extra about the game too.

WILT, 1962: One of the most important stories in basketball history told with truth by Gary M. Pomerantz. Different peoples takes and stories help document a moment taking us back to that infamous night in '62 when Wilt Chamberlain scored 100 points in a single, legendary basketball game and iconic moment in sports history. This game may have never been televised or taped but this biography brings this subject alive for the record. This is fact not fiction. There you have it. TIM DAVID HARVEY.

KEEP IT 100

2011-09-12T17:18:00.000-07:00

The good, the bad & the beautiful game.

BY TIM DAVID HARVEY

They say there is no such thing as bad press. Yeah right, check the NBA headlines right now and then tell that to Javaris Crittenton. He faces a murder charge and his talented NBA career is most likely a wrap. Rewind a couple of calendar years and he and former Washington Wizard teammate Gilbert Arenas got into it with guns in the locker room over a game of cards. Now we all know how bad that got. What are young men in the league getting into these days?

What of Antoine Walker as well? His recent problems with the law involved gambling debts like Gilbert and DUI charges that we've heard about all too many times before. The conversation no longer is on reminiscing about the way he used to hit threes but about whether he can shimmy out of some potential jail time.

This seems to be the problem these days in the league. Log on to any basketball news wire and the per usual will be found. Kobe will have scored 30, Boston will have won, LeBron will have made things happen down the stretch and some coach will be on the firing line. More than often however there will be some negative news about some current or ex-player and their troubles with the law. Assaults, DUI's, drugs, and so on. The list goes on.

Now in this life we all have to take the good with the bad and the news is the medium that always presents us with both sides of this coin. With that being said however isn't everyone tired of seeing the same old news like this on a regular basis? It is important to know what's going on. It helps us to be aware and we can all take something away from each story we read and learn from it. Then again years past the news of Gilbert and Javaris' situation was on a constant loop it takes the focus off of basketball. When did it stop being about the game? The primary reason we are invested in this sport. Any casual observer or overseas fan struggling to keep up with limited amounts of basketball coverage won't have much of a clue about how any of the recent games have played out, and this isn't because of the lockout. It's because of all the other bull****.

Legal matters surrounding the league do demand attention but the press should still focus more coverage on celebrating the guys that just get down to business and avoid bad press. The attention should be shifted more to guys who are as ‘all ball’ as a Kobe Bryant foul at the Staples Centre. Speaking of Kobe, look at him for example. He has had his legal problems in the past and on top of that received bad press for his public feuds with various players. Today however tells a different story. He makes the news for the right reasons and his play and his relationships with his teammates are better for it. Take a look at what all that positivity brought him, a championship.

The rest of his Lakers squad echo this idea. Star players like Odom, Gasol and Bynum fill out the stat sheets and not the rap sheets. They seem to avoid bad press, especially taking into account these guys ball in the entertainment frenzied city of Los Angeles and one of them is even married to a Kardashian as well. Bar an ill-advised Spanish team photo you couldn't find a speck of dirt on these Angelinos. It’s because they just get down to what matters, the game itself. They leave all the other stuff behind.

Everyone thought that was about to change when the Lake show added Ron Artest, the All-Star with the biggest blot on the NBA's permanent record. Take a look at Ron-Ron today though however and he's focused like his Los Angeles co-stars. The strange antics are still there however, such as a couple of years ago appearing on the Jimmy Kimmel show decked in only his draws or injuring himself on Christmas Day by falling down the stairs (Easy on that egg nog now). Or of course most recently 'Dancing With The Stars' and standing up for comedy. Apart from that however everything is kosher. If Arenas is offered the chance to redeem himself in this league he would do good to look at Artest for an example (Try saying that a couple of years back). Ron is in the good books right now and looking at a potential first ring. To do this he didn't have to compromise himself either, he just had to keep out of trouble.

Is this exciting? Well to some people it isn't. Some people just love controversy and the media feeds in to this. In some respects controversy keeps things going and interesting but in the grand scheme of things it's unnecessary. Yes it can serve as a conversation piece to relieve boredom at the office or on the playground the following day but so can a half-court heave or the latest output from Brandon Jennings. These are true basketball highlights. Sport should be in the back pages of a newspaper, not the front.

Some of these legal matters are problems that many people have (Alcoholism, gambling etc). These aren't matters to be glossed over; these are problems that need solution. Gambling is an addiction, Jordan loved it and top-flight players like Arenas earn so much that it must feel like they can gamble with an unlimited reserve. NBA players are celebrities and some celebrities love living the high life with clubbing, alcohol and money all on tap. When this life gets too much however and the private becomes public the situation then becomes much worse. In analysing the situations arisen from the various legal or personal troubles that occur it seems that the scandal rather than the solution is what is sought after the most. This is because scandal sells, especially with celebrities. People seem to care less about the decent numbers Michael Beasley is putting up this season and more about what was going on in his head a few Summers back. Is that right?

There are far more players in this league putting in work then playing around too much yet the focus is rarely on these guys. What a great team the Portland Trail Blazers are these days but what a shame it is that they made the headlines more when they were dubbed the 'Jail Blazers'. Surely hearing about players smoking weed isn't half as exciting as hearing about Brandon Roy smoking opponents?

What happened to appreciating old-fashioned, decent, blue collar hard work? Sure there are a lot of things happening off court right now but what about the real action on court? The reason the fans follow these players, the real reason they were ever worthy of this attention in the first place. When fans grew up watching basketball they were only concerned with Michael Jordan's loyalty to the game not his extra marital affairs.

Sure the cream always rises to the top and true talent will always be recognised and celebrated, but yet it still feels like more coverage is given to the negative downfalls of a player than their positive achievements. In this league superstars are players who leave it all on the floor and it should be left at that. This isn't reality T.V. and Perez Hilton doesn't blog for the NBA. The next time the life and times of Gilbert Arenas et al is brought up around the office why not change the subject to real basketball news? Like the countless number of role players who put in 100% each night to little recognition outside their teams fan base. Gilbert's a top tier player who deserves recognition even in turbulent times but there are a lot of other players outside the spotlight who deserve coverage too.

There are many examples of this but the best has to be Tim Duncan. What great talent, more than 20 and 10 over a dozen years. The best power forward ever, period. Sure he is respected deeply as one of the elite but often times when other superstars are considered in discussion he's lower down on the pecking order. OK so his trademark bank-shot doesn't make posters and he isn't at the top of the first returns of All-Star votes but why? Just because he’s more about reliability then excitement? His status, his play and the results can not be denied, even with his better years in the rear-view. He is the prototype of an NBA big man; he is the model of consistency. Instead of making the headlines for his off court antics he climbs the record books for his prolific endeavours on the court. So what if that isn't gangster, it's real. People are often too quick to bring a player with troubles down rather then put the ones that deserve recognition on a pedestal.

So therefore although just like Javaris we shouldn’t treat his current situation lightly sometimes all the talk and news in the league is too heavily focused on the wrong thing. Javaris has turned himself in and until a verdict is passed not much else will really happen. This is for the court of law, so let's focus our basketball talk back on our court. So whilst waiting on this isn’t it time that people focused on other things in the league? Why not focus on the finer things in basketball? That’s what this game we all love really is about.

RODMAN ARTEST

2011-09-09T17:26:00.000-07:00

One and the same.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Call them crazy but Ron Artest and Dennis Rodman share more than a few eccentricities and playing time for the Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers. The two enigmatic and entertaining ball players, personalities and all-round stars, have a lot more extra curricula activities and facets of themselves that meet the average or critical eye. There's just something about these two. They seem to have done just about everything and anything they want. Where do we start?

You think Ron Artest is cuckoo for appearing on a Jimmy Kimmel interview in just the bare essentials of his boxer shorts? Well Dennis Rodman showed up to his own wedding as the bride, veil, gown and everything. Speaking of which the woman he married was Carmen Electra in a bizarre marriage that lasted as long as Ron Artest's latest dose of reality might. Ron is literally 'Dancing With The Stars' for a season (damn this lockout) with Lamar Odom's beau's brother and Cher's daughter/son Chaz Bono. Still don't rule Ron and his left feet out, stranger things have happened, my moneys on him and his excellent defensive footwork to win.

Stranger things have indeed happened. Queensbridge native Artest has released rap records, OK so he's no Nas, but he can sure rap better than Kobe, while Dennis D.J.'s everywhere from Madrid to Tokyo, sound strange? Well, how about this? Ron's successfully done stand up, sure he was no Dave Chappelle or Jamie Foxx, but he was no Doug Williams either. Rodman's also made us laugh out loud with the best story about his old flame Madonna. He's also successfully taken to the Hollywood stage with Van Damme in the blockbuster 'Double Team', amongst other films, we can't wait to see Artest in a film either. Dennis has also penned several entertaining and curiously titled autobiographies, even promoting one by sitting in a coffin. These boys sure kill us laughing, we can't wait to see and read what Ronny has to say.

Ron infamously brawled with fans in the 'Malice Of The Palace', which he has since made humble amends for, but Rodman has thrown it down with Hulk Hogan and believe it or not NBA strongman Karl Malone in a WWF wrestling ring. 'W.T.F' indeed! Ron has one different but generous things like hold open invitational Venice Beach football games via Twitter, while police helicopters once had to stop one of Rod's beach block parties. Ron Artest recently changed his name to Metta World Peace, Rodman's groundbreaking, creative and at times gender, defying dress has made it hard to figure out who he is, but he dubbed himself the 'devil' to Jordan's 'God' and Pippen's 'Jesus'. It's all in the name of fun however, like when Dennis would change and spray his hair a different colour and pattern each game. Something Ron's experimented with once or twice and even convinced D.J. Mbenga to do.

Call them what you want but this proves nothing but the passion and creative expression of heart of the pair. The type of unique, individual and specialist qualities that helped them become legendary all-round and classic, irreplaceable niche players in the league. The two have given (and in Ron's case still give) many top franchises their sensational, serious services. The two have even agreed to play overseas with British franchises in their time. These comic clowns sure know how to have fun, but they're no joke. They take their game and business seriously. This is why they are two of the greatest NBA players of all-time, Hall of Fame approved and waiting. From Ron's multiple 'Defensive Player of the Year' awards to Dennis' countless rebound accolades the pair have grabbed and stole the limelight from those looking to star big on the offensive side in more ways than one. Don't front on the offence of these two either, they could and can score big too. There numbers game goes beyond the constant jersey changing Artest (he once sported '37' in honour of the number of times Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' went platinum) and Rodman's bizarre requests (he once was refused the chance to wear '69' or '007' by the shaken and stirred Dallas Mavs who felt screwed around).

Still statistically speaking these legends have gone beyond the box-score, with their hustle, hard work, passion, persistence, skill, will, drive and dedication. Ron Artest has owned every opponents best player like Dennis Rodman owned every loose ball. These defensive dynamo's have become benchmark pioneers for the 'other' side of the court. These two men also provided immeasurable, incredible help to the two greatest basketball players of all time; Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan. From opponent to teammate Ron has gone from Kobe's worst agitator to his greatest motivator, while in the eyes of critics Rodman's had Jordan's back, through the days he was wrongly hated, to the days he was rightfully, finally celebrated. Some may not understand the tributes and talents of this pair but that's what makes these enigmatic players and personalities that much more individual and unique.

Now how's this, in the list of outgoing behaviour? Ron Artest has acted as an advocate for mental health even selflessly auctioning off a players most valuable possession in his championship ring to raise money for the cause he's down for. He's not the only one who turned his biggest honour around to others. This year when an emotional and genuine Dennis Rodman was inducted into the Hall Of Fame he gave the most humbling, honest and heartfelt speech ever heard as he admitted he thought he needed to be a better father and man. Dennis sacrificed his moment for a poignant and profound declaration to his loved ones. What both these dedications by these two men show is heart and a hell of a lot of it. An under appreciated quality of both individuals that show just the players and men they truly are.

All in all the personalities and complexities of Dennis Rodman and Ron Artest are more than what meets the stereotypical eye. Sure this pair of eccentric characters may not be squeaky clean and cut, but from the screeches they make on the court to what they do above the rest off it they really are something special. Replace crazy with the word charismatic and you my just begin to figure out what makes these two individuals be the players and men they are. Two men with so much passion, talent and dedication with more heart than the critics give them. Forget about the hate, you have to love guys like this. Similar but all in all their own men.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE

2011-09-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

Agent Smith.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY.

Joe Smith is not your average Joe. Joe Smith is not your average Mr. Smith. Joe Smith is not your average NBA journeyman either. He's been one of the association's most unique, dedicated and hardest working talents over the last two decades, helping more teams then you can count and remember and taking his regular name to households all around and across America.

The multi-talented, double team, triple threat has built a career off versatility. Whether it's perfectly portraying basketball legend Connie Hawkins in the movie 'Rebound', or acting as and channelling other versatile big man greats like Bob McAdoo on the court. Or whether it be releasing a real rap album with his lyrical skills under his Twitter alias Joe Beast, or whether it be his basketball skill-set 'Stutter' stepping like singer Joe, while leaning back like Fat Joe, to 'Pump It Up' like Joe Budden, Joe Smith does this. Truly not your average Joe.

In the matrix of his NBA career, Joe's been everywhere like Agent Smith, ready to step in and be whatever he's needed to be, do whatever is needed to be done. He's done this for 12 out of 30 of the association's franchises, almost half the league. He shares the record for playing for the most teams in his career with speedy guard Chucky Brown, physical forward Tony Massenburg and top star Jim Jackson and soon he could hold it. Just like his co-record holders, he's been able to do this because of his hard-work, job dedication and versatile talents. He's been more than trade bait, this journeyman is always destined to help anyone. Accepted everywhere like credit cards, to the debit of his opponent, he's always guaranteed to work and you can cash in on that. He's been the leagues prototype of the best 21st century big man, athletic, strong, fundamental, with long arms and an even longer, stretch-Armstrong range too. With a slender but strong frame, Smith can run and dunk like a guard, but also go inside and bang with his fellow forwards and centres. Joe really is a beast.

Coming out of Norfolk, Virginia this 6 foot 10, 225 pound, 'Naismith College Player of the Year', Maryland marvel was the perfect specimen for a basketball player. It was almost like he was created for a video game. It's little wonder, he was taken 1st in the 1995 draft by the Golden State Warriors, Joe Smith's name was ready for the big, bright lights. He was a star, made. Smith's all rookie year saw him took before stars Kevin Garnett, Antonio McDyess, Rasheed Wallace and Jerry Stackhouse in the draft and although he came second to mighty mouse Damon Stoudemire (another guy he was taken before) in the 'Rookie Of The Year' voting he still showed and proved that he could stand next to all these legends.

Smith was looking strong as a Warrior in Golden State, but then after a brief pit-stop in Philadelphia came the Minnesota Timberwolves years. Following the last lockout Smith was a top prize in the 1998 free-agent market and Minny stole him with a bargain sign. Then with fellow third year man and legendary forward prototype Kevin Garnett, Smith would form a frontcourt tandem for the ages that would cure K.G. and Minnesota's problems and bad luck. That was until the genie went back into the lamp as salary scandal hit.

After Minnesota where severely punished and the NBA voided the last year of Smith's contract the unselfish star was on the move once again. Michigan became Joe's home for a year to start the new millennium. Smith played well as a backup for a Detroit Piston's team that was getting deeper and deeper and stronger and stronger. Journeyman Joe got his Marvin Gaye on calling home wherever he laid his hat. Then Smith had to give up Motown for his chance for career redemption in his return to Minnesota. Like Marvin it was time to get it on.

After two great seasons this travelling man's journey really began, as the buck started from Milwaukee to more stake in Philly, by way of a nugget of time in Denver. The Bucks, Sixers and Nuggets sure needed him, as did the wind and wine of the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers. Joe was always a big contributor and difference maker to a team, able to put up significant minutes and statistics. His valuable veteran presence solidified a team, his size bolstered the frontcourt and his name gave significance to the bench and the box-score when it was called. Trades then sent him to Oklahoma and then New Orleans (but the trade was rescinded), but either or-the Thunder or the Hornets-Smith brought his worth and value with every transaction and transition.

In his season in the A with the Atlanta Hawks, Smith was a much needed elder-statesman on a young, raw but hungry bunch of Hawks in the ATL. In that year Smith made history as well becoming the 92nd player in NBA history to reach 1000 games played. He achieved this under century, grand record in a game against the New Jersey Nets who he was then traded to. Only in Joe Smith's career would something like that happen. Then only three months later Smith's bags may as well have remained unpacked as he then headed to sunnier California climates as he headed to the Los Angeles Lakers for Sasha Vujacic in a big, complicated trade that also involved the Houston Rockets. Proving to be a vital cog for the then reigning champion Lakers, Smith replaced the machines big contributions off the bench. He is a key member of this L.A. Team, again giving them depth and veteran leadership, making his points and rebounds in his minutes. He is the passionate, energy guy, motivating his team from the bench that the Lakers missed since charismatic characters like Ronny Turiaf and Mark Madsen left. The number one pick with the number one jersey, giving all he has, first and foremost, front and centre.

Smith has made it a great career with averages of 10.9 points and 6.4 rebounds (including 18.7 and 8.5 in a sensational sophomore season in Golden State) and his campaign to be one of the best veterans, role-players and hard workers this league has seen continues. It's only going to get more legendary. The Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Milwaukee Bucks, Denver Nuggets, Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls, Oklahoma City Thunder, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, New Jersey Nets, Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA as a whole owe him a debt of gratitude. He's been through it all and done it all and he 'aint done. He's giving it all to his teams with that family type love. Yes sir!

TURNING OVER A NEW LEAF

2011-09-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

A cold wind blows.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Just over a year ago it was a done deal. Chris Bosh signed a contract in Miami with two new, 'super' friends that ensure he'd only look like a Raptor from then on. As CB4 took his underrated game to a bigger market Miami went to the finals, while Toronto hit the lottery looking for their next big ticket. It got an awful lot hotter down in South Beach and a hell of a lot colder up in Canada.

Bosh may have been where the franchise started but he’s not the be all and end all. Toronto has some other issues that they need to take care of before this franchise becomes a dinosaur team in this league. Before they become more worthy of the new CBL, then the NBA. This lone Canadian franchise needs to show it's not another Memphis Grizzlies, they can't end up like Vancouver.

At the peak of this team’s power over the last decade they were almost unstoppable. They actually had a solid, decent squad of players running from 1-15 and had a legitimate shot at being a contender for the first time since 'Air Canada', Carter made his departure. They need to get back to this level of play.

This was back in 2006 where the Raps came out of nowhere to be the Phoenix Suns of the East. A lot had changed about the franchise, ownership, money, court design, color schemes, etc. The franchise was refreshed and invigorated. Gone where the previous childish logos, the team wasn’t playing kids games any more. Colangelo’s input had given this team the push they needed. Even the red and white uniforms spoke volumes for their patriotic stance towards their country. The Raptors weren’t about to take the Memphis Grizzlies route, they where here to stay in Canada. Hip-hop music was being played between timeouts; an attractive presenter was keeping fans interested. The whole setup in the Air Canada Centre breathed new life into this team. The fans came out in capacities and gave the team those all important energy boosts.

As for the players, Bosh was becoming more and more comfortable with himself, resulting in him becoming more and more of a force and one of the premier players in this league. He let his hair grow out and he let his game spill over on to the court. He even came back from injury to clinch a game winning three from the then Iverson and C-Webb strong-led 76ers. Basketball was getting more entertaining and exciting up north back then. It was time for the network anchors to grab their warm clothes and take a trip across the border to see real ball. Basketball without borders, yeah the Raps showed that, from TSN to ESPN.

The rest of the team stood out as well. T.J. Ford made sure that fans soon forgot about favourite Charlie V and Fred Jones was throwing mid- second quarter dunks down hard, making it almost impossible for fans to go get some snacks. If concession profits fell then Freddy would have to be fingered for that one. As fans got up and stayed in their seats more than those waiting for free taco's. The team had a real international flavor as well. This brought extra options to the team and extra dimensions to the game. Anthony Parker shot the lights out most nights, he was one of the most slept on role players in the league as he was capable of lighting up to 20 quicker than most bench players in the league, he was pure and more than Candace Parker's brother.

A player who was dirty on the other hand was Jorge Garbajosa. Garbo however was dirty in a good way, take Chris Oakley, Rick Fox and ‘The Junkyard Dog’ and mix them all together then you’ve got ‘The Garbage Man’. A loyal worker who handled all the rough plays, hustled hard and had a pretty stroke to counter his gruff look. It’s amazing Garbo is no longer in the NBA as he’s the type of role player that champions are made of, but then again this is the league where amazing happens after all. Even if the 'amazing' is truly mind-blogging.

All though he showed some Rookie teething problems, Andrea Bargnani was showing real promise especially in certain runs in the game. Jose Calderon was drawing most of the non-Bosh attention however (and thankfully for the T-Dot he still is). He was so quick, talented and prolific that he was taking Ford’s drive for the starting position of point guard away and he's still running with T.J. out of town. He showed a rare mix of speed and scoring prowess for a small guy that Tony Parker had shown before him and that Rajon Rondo is showing since. When Jose was taking off court on a stretcher during a home game against Golden State fans looked like the Raptors season was in jeopardy. That game was only in earl December, that’s how little time it took for Jose to make a certain impact. That's what's lead to all these plus years.

So this T-Dot team where putting their exclamation point on a league that had disregarded them as the ‘last remaining Canadian franchise’ or ‘that team Vince Carter’ used to play for (you can still hear the boo’s and hisses right?). The Raptors where playoff bound and the future looked bright but since then over the last half decade they have looked less and less like this team. This franchise is far from becoming extinct but their glory years are looking more and more like memories for youtube then current highlight reels. The time for buffering is over, this team needs to be seen clearly for what they can be.

Toronto is one of those underrated cities and their basketball team was looking like that too. With that being said however Toronto is still one of those big market, tourist cities. All the foreigners coming for a visit back in ’06 (whether holiday or visa related) would have been pleasantly surprised to see a Raptors game. Nowadays they’ll just stick to Leaf games because Ice Hockey is Canada’s bread and butter. That doesn't mean the Raptors are playing with knives made for the margarine however. Slasher DeMar DeRozan makes this point cut, while Andrea Bargnani has sharpened his basketball tools and skill set. These two leading men also have great support from juggernaut Jarrett Jack, the brilliant Barbosa, the tough Reggie Evans, the tween of Sonny Weems and the dunking dynamo Amir Johnson. This type of support won't leave the future weather of this Ontario side overcast.

Fans and viewers alike however must tune back in. There can be a reception again however. Some of the Raptors core may have rotted but this basketball team can still eat if they just show their still hungry for success and so long as they don’t make a meal out of the good things they have. This type of fire and determination which was displayed in 2006 is still here even if Bosh is gone like Vince. Not to get Carter or hate Chris, but this team has moved on before and can move on again. Bryan Colangelo is a business man, and a smart one too, now its time for the general manager to show that he’s all about rebuilding the foundations that he laid with this team back in what was arguably the franchises best all-round year. Then other big players like Bosh may want to play and it may just feel like 2006 again.

FAMILY TIES

2011-09-06T16:50:00.000-07:00

Vince Carter & Tracy McGrady have more in common than kin.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Explosive, electrifying, appreciated> implosive, fan-defying, hated.

It was all good just a few years ago. Cousins and former Toronto teammates Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter were ‘it’. All-Star’s, magazine cover subjects, faces of commercials, apprentices to air and all-round players amongst the best ballers. So what happened? Did Carter and McGrady basically fail to meet everyone’s expectations? Or simply were the expectations always too much? The bar the fans raised being too high? Are these former Raptor legends in the making now extinct dinosaurs?

Maybe it is the expectations that are being placed too high because V.C. and Mac’s careers have still been great. This is despite what most think and despite some growing pains. The bar will always be set high and the pair of athletes may not always clear it but their personal bests speak for themselves. Today fans are tuned into the Kobe and LeBron show and other players are finding it hard to get airtime. That being said it appears that Carter and McGrady’s stock has been diminished for a long time now, but why?

If your in this game to hate its easier to see why. Vince may have been the man in Toronto with his out of this universe, aerial displays wowing everyone and bringing everybody’s attention to basketball in Canada but things would change. Air Canada’s moves and finishes were the most electrifying and explosive the league had seen since Air Jordan but one move was all it took for the fans to really be shook. When Vince played out his final season in Toronto and left, the hate boiled over. It was a cold summer in the T-Dot. Vince may have taken the Raptors places but now he would never feel at home there again. If this was the rap game Vince would be Ja Rule, disregarded and forgotten (but why?). Vince may have pole-vaulted opponents in the Olympic games but now the rest of his career seems to be going over everybody’s head.

Tracy’s career from the hate perspective looks like a load of expectations followed by disappointments. From Vince in Toronto, to Grant Hill in Orlando and then Yao Ming in Houston, Mac has formed potential partnerships for the ages. Partnerships with so much potential but a short shelf life. Various injuries and trades helped speed up the expiration process. These days as well, the more times a player moves or gets traded the less his star power shines. Think about it do people really see Allen Iverson as a member of the Grizzlies, a part of Turkey, or a 76er? A change in identity wasn’t the only factor that took away some of Tracy’s shine however. If the negative part of Vince’s career is defined by hate than the negative part of Tracy’s career is defined by doubt. In the NBA doubt is the product of chronic injuries and constant first-round exits.

The early memories of McGrady may have been full of dunks and stare downs but most recently the memories of Mac have been all suit and tie. If this was the rap game T-Mac would be T.I., out of the game and out of commission for a while (but you best believe he'll be back). Tracy was that dude dominating advert spots between games. Look back at Tracy’s ‘commercial’ success and you will see him featuring in adverts with hip-hop sounds such as Baby and Clipse playing in the background. McGrady’s status today however has left fans thinking ‘What happened to that boy’?

Is it this simple? Have these guys truly fallen off? Or are fans just lost in the hate and doubt that come with writing off people in the spotlight? The answer is these guys aren’t even close to the edge of falling off. Air Canada may have been grounded but Vince can still play, via some Air Disney and flight in Phoenix. Now as for Trace, just look at how we maximised minimal time in New York and Detroit, let's not be the ones sleeping on ‘the big sleep’.

It must be very discouraging (at the very least) for Vince and Tracy that so many critics and fans have turned their backs on them. For the rest of his career Carter will always be associated with the Toronto Raptors but for all the wrong reasons. Vince is so routinely booed and heckled in Ontario that it has even become a feature on the NBA Live video game when the Suns play the Raptors at Air Canada Centre. In the real world the ‘Get Carter’ reception in Toronto is always the same but Vince’s performances have been mixed. At times it looks like the pressure is getting too much for Vinsanity but then sometimes he goes for 42 and 10 and ices the game in 0.1 seconds. Regardless of his reception or appreciation Vince Carter is going to show up for his team and play his game. His personality may be challenged but that has nothing to do with his game, that can not be disgraced.

It’s bad enough when a player’s former team’s fans turn on him but how about when a player’s current team loses hope in him? A few years back in the 'Houston we have a problem' years, Rocket fans changed their number 1 Tracy McGrady jerseys to number 13in support of Von Wafer. That must have hurt T-Mac who was trying to start afresh after injury that season. People will be quick to remember Tracy blowing an open look and appearing as if he was blocking his own lay-up against Milwaukee. These types of plays are remembered by the fans who desire to highlight the demise in a players skill set or career.

These same fans should remember the number of great finishes McGrady has bestowed upon the rim, Shawn Bradley certainly does. Or how he killed the San Antonio Spurs in half a minute with a bucket load of points, Tim Duncan certainly does, the number 13 is certainly unlucky for him. Sadly Tracy may not ever be the player he was again before he went down to injury, but that's not his fault, so let's hunt for some goodwill. The average player does not return to their peak form after chronic or serious injury. Then again look at things like Tracy’s 13 points in 33 seconds and its clear were not dealing with your average NBA player.

With great expectations come great disappointments. The world surrounding the NBA can sometimes be dominated by too much bad press. All this does is take away from what is actually done on the court. Vince and Tracy may not be at the same level as when they wowed video camera at the ready, fans and players alike in the dunk contest in 2000, like they did o the courts of Canada for what was and what could have been. Still they both remain a force to be reckoned with today. A force that can still capture people’s attention.

Think Vince can’t get it done anymore? Then look at his averages and add that up with a deadly central mid-range alliance with Grant Hill (another former star and ally of McGrady in Orlando), served on a Steve Nash plate and what do you get? You get two disregarded All-Star talents and a disregarded top NBA franchise motivated and ready to hang with the big boys. Think about Steve dishing out the double team and Vince having the ball in his hands when the clock ticks, closing out games like he does. Look at all this and write these guys off one more time.

Vince has been carrying teams on his own for many years now. Next season presents the chance for him to pursue real success since he experienced his first playoff berth. The big test that faces Vince is whether he can accept a reduced role to achieve this. From all accounts of games in the bank, it appears Mr. Carter can afford to do this. Like Lil' Wayne, 'tha Carter' is about to go forth. Jay-Z will be watching what could have been if he kept his New Jersey, somewhere in Brooklyn.

Think Tracy is to hobbled and too choked up over the years to stand up for himself and let his game do the talking then think again. Tracy may be on the slow climb back, but he hasn’t given up. For years Tracy watched Vince Carter's teammate Grant Hill being grounded by chronic injury after chronic injury but Grant never gave up and he made it back too. Tracy’s former Adidas ‘impossible is nothing’ co-star Kevin Garnett faced years of being knocked out of the playoffs too early but his time and his ring came in the end. Impossible really is nothing, like K.G. screamed, 'anything is possible'. If this does not serve as inspiration for Tracy then he really is dormant.

Tracy isn’t sleeping though his eyes are wide open and staring. Staring down like years back when he gave one of the leagues best dunkers Tyrus Thomas a taste of his own medicine and a glimpse of things to come. Staring down his Twitter feed to be motivated by both the love and hate when he poster a superimposed picture of him in a Lakers jersey. The reality of this could be beyond anybodies wildest dreams. One things for certain; Mac is back and wants to play and win. It became clear how much winning means to Tracy a couple of seasons back when he addressed the press speechless and in tears after being knocked out of the postseason. Are these the acts of a cry-baby or someone who really is driven? If you don't already know, nows the time you should take a backseat.

So both Tracy McGrady and Vince Carter may have more in the bank then they do in the tank but they deserve more credit than what’s been taken away from them over the past few years. Whether it be due to hate or doubt these former fan-favourites still play at a high level when healthy and still have a lot to offer. These cousins have plenty of time yet to achieve what they’ve been after for so long and silence their detractors. The same people who label the pair as weak or cry-babies can not deny jumping out their seats to T-Mac and V.C’s off the glass antics and in your face slams. The anticipation of excitement may have diminished over the years but the duo’s games are still being honed as they excel above it all still giants like Microsoft, even without the hardware. People can talk trash all they like but true talent and love for the game speaks louder than words and hate. Silence!

LUCKY 13

2011-09-06T16:25:00.000-07:00

Wafer full.

We all know the road to the NBA is never easy and there are no guarantees. Luck has nothing to do with making it. Like Von Wafer you have to claim your place. 13 is just a number, but it's the number of a great player. Give him a week and he'll give you a career, doing more before Friday than most do in a season.

Lets take it back. It's early 2008 and the Denver Nuggets are amidst a road trip which now has them inside the Staples Centre taking on the one Los Angeles team that nobody wants to face. As per usual in Hollywood everyone is sticking to the script like Jay-Z. The leading man in this picture is Kobe Bryant who channels Magic and deals a season high 11 assists to his fellow Lakers en route to a 116-99 blowout. Kobe for a player like he is has a quiet 17 but still plays like the MVP he will become that year. His former understudy and then Nuggets backup Von Wafer has just four. The Lakers rout is punctuated by a big shot from Bryant which puts Denver down for good. Who does Kobe hit this shot over? The same guy he used to hit shots over again and again in practice, a guy that the Lakers waived just over a year prior, the then Nuggets backup Von Wafer. If this wasn’t embarrassing enough for Von on his way back down court Kobe slowed down, spun him around and playfully slapped him on the backside. Welcome back to the NBA young fella!

Still remember when Shaquille O’Neal was torching Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls in the first game of the 1996 Eastern Conference finals until he slapped Jordan’s backside mockingly after one particular play. M.J. saw that as a sign of weakness and then decided to return the favor on the court, extinguishing the diesel and eventually sweeping his Magic team? OK, so what happened in January of 2009 may not have exactly been of the same magnitude. Still when Kobe and the Lakers came to play Von’s then new Houston Rockets team, Wafer showed he aint’ no joke and earned the God, M.V.P., Kobe’s respect paid in full. He went 10 out of 14 from the field for 23 points including three from downtown. This was second only to Kobe’s game-high 33. What a difference a year makes.

This career high didn’t stop the Lakers from winning the game 105-100, but it did give them a serious challenge with Wafer when the Lakers were probably too busy focusing on a game plan for Yao Ming. It also made everyone sit up and take notice. NBA legend and now Rockets commentator Clyde Drexler reckoned that Kobe and the Lakers would be wondering ‘who is this kid with the Mohawk that’s lighting us up’? Still ‘The Glyde’ was wrong on this one. Kobe remembered and recognized his old Laker teammate. “Any time you play against somebody who was either traded or left the ballclub, they have extra incentive” Kobe said postgame admiring Von’s performance. “I told him I was proud of the way you’ve been playing”. This time there was no slap from Kobe. You earned your spot young fella!

Vakeaton Wafer certainly has earned his place in this league, lockout and international duty aside (Von recently signed with Vanoli Cremona of Italy). The 26 year old started his basketball career out at Pinewood State High school averaging a mean 32 points, 10 rebounds and 7 assists in his Junior year. He also finished second to a certain Lebron James in the McDonald's All-American slam-dunk contest. This kid was making an impression in high school and this would continue in College too, where in his sophomore year with Florida State he led the team in scoring. Still, however Von wasn’t making the same positive impression in his studies. Cutting classes led to Von being suspended for games, hurting his rep in the process. This could be a reason why this promising youngster was drafted so low in the second round of the 2005 NBA Draft. He was still taken with the 39th pick by the Los Angeles Lakers. A great place to start your career…expect when you’re a guard. A guard isn’t going to take many minutes off Kobe Bryant, especially when your playing time is decided by Phil Jackson, a guy notorious for handing rookies more ‘DNP-Coaches Decisions’ than plays.

Never discouraged however, Von still looked good when he played. A real energy guy when he played, hitting buckets, difficult shots, driving hard to the basket and being tenacious on D like Jack Black is on the acoustic with comedy, Von played with the Lakers in perfect harmony. The thing about Von is he made the most of his sparse minutes. Even in garbage time with the game decided he cleaned up and took the rubbish out, playing like he was trying to make a game-winning play. Go and Youtube Von Wafer against the Toronto Raptors and you’ll see an example of this tenacity. Kobe takes a free throw as everyone remains still, watching, expecting it to go straight in. Von's magic however sees the game before it happens as he darts out of nowhere anticipating the miss. Before anybody registers what has just happened, he runs into the paint and tips in the rebound without breaking stride. That’s a big play, an Iverson, or legendary play. With that being said however, the Lakers had a lot of legends and guys that could make big plays. So Von was expendable and released soon after, but he got his taste of the NBA and he was still hungry.

Some D League time was a required appetizer first though. So Von honed his skills with the Colorado 14ers. Then the Lakers neighbors the Clippers called Von up to the L for a week. This next shot at the association resulted in only one minute of playing time unfortunately, before he was again placed on waivers. Where others would be frustrated and give up Von kept grinding to earn his place back in the league that had already shown him the door twice. Hard work, hustle and of course talent pay off eventually and things got better for Von. First he played out the season with Denver. Then he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2008, showing that he was a valuable commodity to this league and not just another 10 day contract player anymore.

It was when Wafer joined the Houston Rockets however that he was able to cement a new reputation for being a key backup on a top tier ball club. The Rockets had a lot of options from three all-star players to a deep bench, but when Tracy McGrady went down with an injury it was time for Von to step up. Von's explosive, passionate and often clutch play was very refreshing for the Houston fans who were starting to have their doubts about whether T-Mac was the same player he once was, even before his injury, this led to fans McGrady number one jerseys being defaced to a number 13 in honor of Von. Unlucky for some. The Rockets still needed an All-Star like Mac to help them go deep, but Von showed an unwavering enthusiasm and energy that gave Houston a real spark in those mid-second quarter type moments of the game where others switch off.

Just like Vinnie ‘The Microwave’ Johnson of the 80’s era Detroit Pistons, Von heated up at any given moment when his number was called. Just like when he averaged 14.3 points one month, just like when he net 21 against Northwest powerhouse Utah and just like when he hit a game-winning three against the previous years champions. This kind of play earned him a great substitute year with the former Eastern champs and NBA legends; the Boston Celtics.

Before he took off from the Rockets however, Houston found that missing energy player off the bench that kept them going when Yao, T-Mac, Ron et al where out of the game. Back in 2009 Houston made it to the second round of the playoffs, after many years of first round heartbreaking losses that Tracy McGrady knew all too well about. The Rockets and Von faced their biggest challenge yet. A Western Conference second round clash against the red-hot, championship favorite Los Angeles Lakers team that had home-court advantage. The last time Von played against his former team Kobe was proud of him, this time he was aware of him. As daunting as it was for Von, this is a guy who still made it on a playoff team as a significant contributor after being written off and waived twice early in his career. Many other players would yield under this sort of pressure, but Von didn't give up for anything, or anybody. Even in in a series of losses, Von won even more respect and set his career off on a winning path, that would lead him to Kobe and the Lakers Boston Celtics rivals.

Today Von is the same lose-hard, everything for his team to win, key player. Even if the tempo of the game is slow Wafer can step in and reset the tone of the game providing a boost for his team, just like he does when he’s barely sitting on the bench and encouraging his starters to go hard. This type of tempo change can help his team change the flow of a game and even the momentum of a playoff series. Even after being bounced around the league from team to team it seems that Von Wafer still has a basketball home in America, even though like most players he'll have to segue abroad until certain negotiations open up. Still, when Davis Stern unlocks the doors to the NBA you can bet Von Wafer will return with more than his foot in the door, kicking it in with his notorious B.I.G. talent. Then we can alll say; welcome back to the NBA young fella!

NBA-WHERE TRADING HAPPENS

2011-09-05T17:15:00.000-07:00

Trading places.

BY TIM DAVID HARVEY

OK picture the scene, you've just been paid and its the weekend. Last night you could have hit the club but you decided to stay in and save that money for something more. Maybe you pulled an extra shift, worked a double, put in a request for overtime. Maybe this week for a little change you did some jobs for the neighbours, cut a lawn here, washed a car there. You may have even borrowed a little bit, or not taken that girl on that date yet. So your at the store with your hard earned cash and your face to face with your idols jersey, stomach rumbling, no lunch out today. Look to your right there’s the new Air Jordan’s...maybe for your birthday, Right now its about your teams all-star. You carefully count out your $179.99 because you want to be authentic with this purchase, for this player a swingman jersey just isn't enough. You go to the register and even the shop assistants jealous, you make the purchase, flash her a wink and leave the store.

Walking down the block you want to break it out the bag and rock it now… but wait, be patient. So you race home and then you run up stairs and in your room carefully take the jersey out the bag like it was the most fragile thing you’ve ever touched. You try it on, look in the mirror, its a perfect fit. The digital camera comes out because the Facebook profile pictures come next. Your real proud right about now that you almost forget its game time. You flip on the TV to check out the pre-game stats, and your faced with the big NBA news story of the week. You can't believe it… your mans been traded. Oh well that'll make a nice throwback in a couple of years buddy.

”This player make em' scream and scheme/my closet look like I keep getting traded from team to team”. Fabolous-Right Now & Later On

I love this game and you do too. You may just love to watch basketball in any form whether it be the L, European ball or the shirts versus the skins of the streets. Still, however you probably also love a team in the NBA, whether its your hometown ballclub or if you live thousands of miles away from the team you ride with. Your checking the scores and stats everyday, you bleed the teams colours and you treat the roster like extended family members. So even when an underused role player is traded or waived you feel the loss. This is because with you its deeper than just the game, however for the majority of owners and bigwigs alike this game of basketball goes rarely deeper than business. This is why in today’s league there are more trades and player movement then we can keep up with when ‘NBA Daily’ hits our inbox. From the Carmelo's to the Deron's big deals, become big trades and big news, but no matter how great some moves are, where does it all end? When does it stop?

The thing is that trades and player movement aren’t necessarily a bad thing, but when they are done to excess it doesn’t leave much room for long term planning. Some trades are smart, for example if a trade brings in a player that’s younger than the player shipped out and/or will result in some salary cap relief in the future than this is a smart trade. If a veteran player is bought in too stabilize a young unit, or on the flipside if young players are bought in to give an ageing roster fresh legs than this also can also be seen as a smart move. With that being said however, if a player is bought in on a temporary basis, (maybe he’s good for one last playoff run or maybe he’s got an expiring contract) the trade is only smart for limited reasons. Lets look at it this way, good NBA teams that make a lot of moves like the Golden State Warriors may have one or two buzz worthy seasons, great NBA teams that stick with one solid nucleus like the San Antonio Spurs last for years.

Trades may bring headlines, buzz and a new energy to a team but trades can also effect chemistry, continuity and the flow of a team. More and more star players are being shipped around the league like journeymen and role players are and expected to fit in and make an impact straight away and in some cases accept reduced roles. Sometimes it works like in the case of Pau Gasol and the Lakers and Chauncey Billups and the Nuggets and then other times it doesn’t like with Allen Iverson and the Pistons. The thing that makes it worse that in a league where player movement is second only to the coaching carousel (in terms of being in a constant state of flux) instead of trying to take the time to work in harmony with each other, a player gets disgruntled and a team gets impatient. This results in so much player movement that the gamers of the world have to reorder their rosters on ‘NBA Live’ almost daily.

This has made certain star players without a permanent team to call their own and an uncertainty on where they’ll be playing by the end of the season let alone the month. In 2009 for example, former All-Stars became all-business moves as Shawn Marion had barely been in the heat of Miami’s South Beach for one season when he woke up one morning and needed to buy a winter coat for Toronto. The guy he was traded for Jermaine O’Neal has moved so much over the last season that he’s struggling to find his feet, just like the time he threw his infamous punch at the brawl at the Palace of Auburn Hills. They are other victim of the business side of the league, even if they have now settled in Dallas and Boston respectively (again different teams).

"Big money in this b**** if you didn't knew/ big business, minus the business suit" Lil' Wayne (Rick Ross-Luxury Tax)

So even with the plague of the recession, in the sports world its still business as usual. In today’s league as well you aren't just vulnerable to trades if your a journeyman or about to approach free agency. Even a legend like Shaquille O'Neal was still bouncing around the league-despite his solid play-right until his retirement. In Shaq’s career he played for six teams. If Shaq was a role player or your run of the mill everyday star player six teams in 20 seasons would be normal, but this guys a legend one of the greatest, most dominant players to every play the game and still in retirement a real force. Players of this calibre should be identifiable with one team like Magic, Larry and Mike. Think of it like this which team is going to retire O’Neal’s jersey? The smart money would be on the Lakers where Shaq spent the bulk eight years of his career and prime in. Shaq clinched a three-peat and an NBA MVP award in 2000. Then again we all know how is tenure in L.A. ended, it was no storybook. There’s still love there but is that the franchise he’s going to be identified with when people look over his Hall of Fame career? There is no doubt that it was the most eventful time of his career however Shaquille's career sandwiches his time in Hollywood with two four year slices of time in Florida.

He started his number one draft choice, rookie of the year career with the Orlando Magic and became one of the youngest, most exciting, up and coming players in the league. He took his team to the playoffs and formed a great one-two punch duo with Penny Hardaway while it lasted. His second visit to Florida featured four years on South Beach with another great sidekick in D-Wade. The diesel got his Kurt Russell on and ‘Escaped From LA’ and got another championship ring to boot too. Shaquille's story in Miami was one of redemption. With all these different stories to his career its hard to identify which team Shaq had the biggest impact on and vice versa. One things for certain though the business side of the NBA has certainly had its impact on his career. Yes its not always the owners and the managers faults. A lot of players demand to be released or traded and Shaquille has. Still, however in this business driven league some owners and managers when presented with a disgruntled member of their team would rather think what they could get for the player as opposed to what they could do for the player.

You know the purists out there will want some statistics but there’s only one figure you need to really consider to see how big the trading machine has got. Less than half of the teams in the NBA as of right now have the same franchise player that they had five years ago. So where has this trend of constant player movement come from? Lets look back to 2003 where the Lakers grabbed Utah’s and Seattle’s franchise players Karl Malone and Gary Payton to join them when they already had two of their own franchise players in Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant. These big moves inspired the rest of the league to follow suit and forced them to keep up. In that’s same year Alonzo Mouring went to Miami, Rasheed Wallace went to Detroit and before he needed to feed his family Latrell Sprewell went to the Minnesota Timberwolves along with Sam Cassell.

The league hadn’t seen this much movement of franchise all-star players in this short space of time before. Of course big trades have always been a part of the NBA, legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Clyde Drexler spent their careers with more than one team. Still, it's a different ballgame today. These days players movement is at a higher frequency and top tier ball clubs in the league aren’t shy in stocking their rosters with all-star players who would be the main, go to guy on lesser teams. Although this makes the top teams that greater it makes the lesser teams more and more raw. This can reduce competitiveness in the league. Also think how better top draft picks on lottery teams would fare if they had more strong veteran or all-star influences to mentor them. The stars of the league may be willing to play with the Kobe’s and the Lebron’s (let's not get started on other decisions) for less pay but the possibility of a ring, but with that the Cavaliers and the Sacramento's (or Anaheim, Orange County, or wherever they're going to play) of the league are being left depleted.

One things for sure though the number of trades in the NBA is rising. Whether in the season or the off season and whether it be due to a team wanting immediate results or if there protecting themselves from losing a player to free agency. It can’t be argued that its interesting and at many a time exciting when a three team, seven player, blockbuster deal is done an hour before the trade deadline. Then again you can’t argue that when a All-Star player or a group of players spend the majority, if not all their careers for one team it gives them and the team of their generation a much deeper, richer legacy. Disagree? Think of Tim Duncan and the Spurs, Paul Pierce and the Celtics and Kobe Bryant and the Lakers. That’s when camaraderie is bigger than business. That’s when re-grouping is better than re-tooling. That’s were trades aren’t always necessary and that’s were amazing truly happens.

“And when it comes down to this recording/I must be Lebron James if you Jordan/No I want rings for my performance/I’m a Kobe Bryant of an artist/Same game, same coach, been starting/Same triangle offence.” Lil’ Wayne- Show Me What You Got (Freestyle)

RAISING ARIZA

2011-09-05T16:22:00.000-07:00

From a Lake Show starter to finisher.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

"If there’s a ball somewhere and you know its been bobbled around, ama get it". Trevor Ariza-2008.

Trevor Ariza speaks with the confidence that is needed to be the type of role player who steps up and makes clutch plays in the NBA playoffs. Let's take it back to '08 for a second of nostalgia. It is the following morning after Trevor made a critical steal against the Denver Nuggets for the second time in the Western Conference Finals, sealing the victory for his Los Angeles Lakers side. Swarmed by reporters at practice the following morning Ariza is now stealing the spotlight from Kobe and the rest of the Lakers elite. This is no wonder as without those two steals the Lakers might have been heading to the fishing lakes instead of the NBA Finals.

The first steal came in the tightly fought game one where the Lakers prevailed thanks to that clutch steal and some crunch time free throws. Trevor Ariza uses two of the most important facets of his game in these key plays; anticipation and acceleration. Trevor can see the game before it happens like Magic Johnson, telling us; “Just staying locked in defensively, not having any mental lapse on the defensive end, and try to execute often” and he can turn it up like big game James Worthy. Anthony Carter threw an inbounds pass to Chauncey Billups that would ordinarily be routine, but Trevor read the pass perfectly and with gazelle like speed sprinted down court drawing a key foul.

These are the plays that NBA championships are made of. These are the plays that all-stars make. Former NBA MVP Kobe Bryant acknowledged Trevor stealing away for his teams win, “He made a terrific read, he had tremendous speed, great energy and great anticipation, it was a heck of a play”. Real recognizes real and having the best player in the league recognizing your talent speaks volumes for the type of player you are. Trevor looks familiar. For the Lakers playoff picture in 2008 and championship creation in 2009, the former UCLA bruin Ariza was as significant as leading man Kobe’s two co-stars Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom and even 'the man' himself. The director of this piece, Lakers coach Phil Jackson appreciated Trevor upping his performance at the aforementioned game ones final curtain, saying; “Trevor had really a frustrating night but he made two plays that were very instrumental in helping us win.”

Two games, forty seven minutes and twenty five seconds later in the series the Lakers needed someone to stop one last run by the Nuggets. So again Trevor Ariza stepped up defensively. In an almost identical play, Trevor anticipated, accelerated and stole an inbounds pass from Kenyon Martin intended for Carmelo Anthony, game Lakers. Ariza gave his all in this play so the Lakers would prevail, adding; “We’ve come too far in the season to fail, If I do that I’m letting my team down”. Trevor thinks like the type of big playoff contributors the Lakers franchise has been churning out for decades and championships. Trevor comes from the same school of stepping it up that Lakers greats Michael Cooper and Robert Horry and more attended.

Trevor knows that the playoffs are a different game to the rest of the NBA season and that’s why he made and still today-for his new, New Orleans team-makes big plays when the time calls for it, despite often being a background contributor to guys like Kobe or Chris Paul. The important thing Ariza knows is the importance of making the most of every chance he can get. So even if he has a game where he isn’t one of the biggest contributors, or if he is having an off night, every possession is still another opportunity for him and his team to prevail. Trevor Ariza has a great mental capacity for high pressure games, "Just forget about everything that happened the play before and just worry about the next play, can’t cry over spilt milk” he says and believes. This is the attitude of a guy who gets up after being knocked down, no matter how many times. This is the attitude of a winner.

These clutch plays that Trevor made is further reason to why he was given a starting position on a Lakers team littered with big time players as he helped lead his former franchise to an elusive championship in 2009 following their 2008 losing effort against Boston. Trevor earned this blood, by blood, steal by steal, sweat by sweat, dunk by dunk, tear by tear and big-play by big-play. A starting position which resulted in a then career high 26 points against the Dallas Mavericks, coupled with 3 steals, 3 rebounds and 2 assists across the board. Fans, teammates and opponents alike all didn’t expect this much from Ariza. His contributions has Marv Albert repeating one of his famous catchphrases, “How about Ariza?”.

Indeed how about Ariza, who has been coming up as big as any other player throughout the playoff campaigns over the years. Whether it be the defensive plays, hitting big three pointers or the emphatic, rim breaking, opponent confidence shaking, energy of team awakening dunks. Give this guy even a hint of an inch of room and he’ll take it and force the ball to the hoop with authority. Despite the angle, despite the degree of difficulty and despite the players in front of him. He wont be denied and he’ll defy gravity in the way he powers to the basket. From the defensive end to the offensive end, there's few better runners, starters and finishers, whether that be of his teams play or opponents.

Trevor’s moves have been on replay in fans minds and on YouTube collectively since the start of his career when he was taken at a criminally low 43rd overall in the 2004 draft by the Knicks. Still, however if he wasn’t getting the exposure he deserved as an exciting rookie in New York, or his time in Orlando, he’s certainly getting it now following his time in the celebrity capital of the world. Despite playing in an arena full of famous fans like Leonardo DiCaprio, Denzel Washington and of course Jack Nicholson, night-in night-out in 2009, Trevor was the one who drew the crowds gaze.

In late 2007 the Lakers gave up the promising talent of Maurice Evans and Brian Cook for the proven talent of the Orlando Magic’s Trevor. Then just over a month later, on December 25Th, Ariza gave them a great Christmas present. He unwrapped an amazing facial dunk over Grant Hill and the Phoenix Suns, giving the Lakers the enthusiasm and motivation needed to take the victory. This kept bloggers busy but also injected a new sense of excitement to a Lakers squad that was beginning to come together. It was now evolving from a blossoming team into a championship caliber unit in full bloom.

The last time the Lakers where a contender they had Shaquille O’Neal. In 2009 they went back to the top thanks to Kobe and the right compliment pieces that where running a lot more in a fast paced, exciting offense. This offense is reminiscent of the classic ‘Showtime’ era of the Lakers in the 80’s. These 21st century Lakers can run and finish strong whether it be Kobe, Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol or Andrew Bynum. Still, however with great first step acceleration and electrifying dunks nobody on the Lakers roster epitomized the Showtime style of play more than Trevor Ariza did in his time (sorry Shannon, your still real close). That’s right, whether it be starting or finishing a fast break when Ariza was involved every seat in the house was vacant. Running as smooth as Jamaal Wilkes and taking it hard to the basket like Byron Scott, when Trevor was on top form it was Showtime baby!

It all seems like yesterday that Ariza was wearing the Lakers three on the teams quest for their own trio but it was two years, two teams (Houston and New Orleans) and two alike replacements in Ron Artest (defensively) and Devin Ebanks (physically) ago. Still despite the filled voids and the valid championships, Trevor Ariza is still missed and was a big part of the Lakers who would be a piece that would help them so much in the playoff puzzle. His speed, steals, hustle, determination and tenacious passion will always be missed by the Lakers and cherished by who he plays for. Even though Trevor may never don purple and gold again, he'll always be certified as an iconic Laker member and one of the prime reasons this team was successful in returning to their glory days. On this court he'll always be a star, thanks to his walk to fame. The championships belong to him as much to anyone as he played his supporting role to a tee on the fairways of Hollywood.

“Everyone has to contribute if we wanna win, everybody has to do their part”Trevor Ariza-2008.

Trevor certainly did his.

LAKERS LEAVERS

2011-09-05T16:09:00.000-07:00

Honoring the alumni.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY.

With last years three-peat hopes finding no feet and a lockout not opening up anybodies chances for next season, Laker fans will be forgiven not to look to the championship past. The team still have their biggest stars intact but the Lakers still miss the players they lost to free agency over this last year. To begin last season on ring night Phil Jackson (a man who is missed the most) and the Staples crowd recognised this when the Zen mentioned and the crowd motioned towards these four. Farmar, Powell, Mbenga and Morrison may nave to wait for their championship rings in the post but they don't have to look too far for the love from Lakerland, as does another part of the Laker machine.

JORDAN FARMAR: Jordan could of been the heir to Derek Fishers starting point job. Still Farmar needed more than heavy rotation guard minutes. That's just how good he is. You better watch Jordan as he breaks out. He could be a star. Sure Steve Blake is a great replacement but it'll always be intriguing to know what could of been with this Los Angeles native and UCLA grad. His speed, tenacity, defence and shooting make him an all round scouts favourite. The Lakers loss is New Jersey's net gain however. Jordan and Devin Harris could give the Brooklyn to be Nets one of the quickest, most potential filled backcourts around, by way of a years experience overseas. Look for the Meadowlands to soon become Farmars boulevard.

ADAM MORRISON: He may have been the butt of many jokes for years, but despite the tears and 'tache Mo is no joke. Despite the highlight reels made by Jimmy Kimmell, Adam Morrison can play. "He can really go", Kobe told Kimmel and take it from me this guys got more sharp shots than suits and more twine than pine. This former lottery ticket is no bust. Adam can score like a starter but with all the options the Lakers had he had to take his ticket and wait in line. Sure a few more years here could of helped both parties but it's the Wizards however that made the real pooper to begin last years campaign. Morrison may have been cut but he's got plenty more tricks up his sleeve. Lets just hope another team can provide the vest.

JOSH POWELL: Josh may be a quiet guy who seldomly played for the Lakers but he will be missed. He will always be remembered like Mark Madsen for coming in and giving the Lake Show everything he had in any minutes he got. He even put up big numbers in Bynums absence. When it was time to step up Josh answered a call that wasn't even meant for him, but he received and connected. A fan and team favourite, Powell's good sounding taste in music provided a playlist for the team and Lakers.com. As a player too J-Peezy sounded a lot better than most people are willing to hear. He clicked in a shuffled Lakers rotation as he helped the team repeat. Josh plays like a tall guard or forward in a big mans body, is raw and seasoned with championship experience. Now this young Hawk is still in the playoff hunt as the necessary cover required to help this running and winning team flow. All Hawk eyes are on him.

D.J. MBENGA: Sure with just a mere mention of the word 'taco' Mbenga may provide more entertainment then when the Lake Show hit 100 on burrito night but D.J. will be missed for more character 'hits' than that. Sure Mbenga may have been posterized more times than Shawn Bradley acting like a camera man in a dunk contest but D.J. could put it down too. Now yes when he died his hair gold with Artest, Mbenga may have looked more like the other NBA wild man, Dennis Rodman was ready to hit a retirement home but when D.J. was requested he manned the boards and helped the Lakers rebound from injuries etc. Baby Mutombo is an ambassador to defence and now he serves for the sensational city of New Orleans where he'll show the nest what a real king looks like.

SASHA VUJACIC: We can't forget about Sasha, who was traded in the middle of last season. Sure this machine gunner at times was in a funk and was wild and erratic but he still served well like Maria Sharapova. Speaking of his beau-like Gasol-we saw him courtside this Summer in London for Wimbledon but we sure do miss him at times on court in STAPLES. Earlier on in 2011 in London after the big trade he hit many big clutch shots or his new, New Jersey Nets as he helped thaw the Toronto Raptors in their international double-header. Even when the Lakers hit England's capital last year the Slovenian still drew cheers and charges despite all eyes on Kob'. A popular character because of his shot, style, defence and passion. Erratic but enigmatic, inconsistent but still a champion. The title and praise speaks for itself. The machine motors on along with Farmar in New Jersey. No sleep 'till Brooklyn.

Bottom line all these guys will be missed as we wish them well. They will all be an asset wherever they play and even if the Lakers rebound to a championship next season, somehow it just won't be the same without them. Take good care guys. All the best.

CANADA DRY

2011-09-03T13:21:00.000-07:00

It sure has been one cold Summer up north.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

Lets take a trip down memory lane. It was the fall of 2006 and this writer was living in Toronto for a few months after finishing university in his native England. Now this writer was already exposed to basketball since the door frame, pencil marking age of 11. Basketball was his first love despite living in a nation where soccer, rugby, cricket, tennis and motor sport leave little room for anything else to get a look in. Now even though this hoops lover knew everyone from the Kobe Bryant’s to the Michael Olowakandi's of this league nothing would prepare him for what he saw in Ontario.

This writer would witness a hoops hotbed North of America. A country whose star player/celebrity Steve Nash was a recent back to back MVP and a city whose team rose from being frozen out of the playoff picture to contention in merely a year. Sure Steve Nash may have looked more like a guy who surfs or skates boards rather than one who runs back and forth between them but he was the best. This pasty, shaggy haired little guy was and is one of the L's brightest, polished and biggest stars around. Nash is one of the greatest points of all time palms down. He ran things for his nation’s international team back in the day and today he still leads the way for Canada in his sport.

In 2006 the Toronto Raptors now the sole Canadian franchise in the NBA (since the Grizzlies of Vancouver migrated to Memphis) looked hot in the harsh Ontario Winter. No longer hung-over from Vince Carter's departure they where now revitalised led by Chris Bosh and his post Garnett style play. The Raptors shared more in common with Steve Nash than their Canadian roots. The Raps where quickly becoming the Phoenix Suns of the East. They where rebranded, they where quicker, they where more international than their location, they where more entertaining and most importantly they won more. It sure looked sunny for Basketball in Canada with little chance or rain.

A few years later however and the weather changed forecasting a chilly outlook and today it's so cold in the NBA's second home. The Canadian national side in recent years has failed to qualify for the 2006 World Championships and the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Steve Nash has got older and as he has aged his number 7 Canada jersey is now being pulled off discount rails instead of being pulled on in international competition. Last year the Canadian side has crashed out of this months FIBA World championship going all John Starks in the group stages. I guess British Colombia will be the closest this nation gets to England for the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Still, this incredible nation is still worthy of carrying their torch with pride. The fire is still burning, even if it is a lighter flame.

As for the Toronto Raptors right now they probably feel like a woman scorned. A woman who learned to love once more after all her friends told her it would be alright but then got cheated on again. Last summer it all went South (South Beach to be specific) for Toronto as their second franchise player/hero to villain left via free agency. Chris Bosh made a determined decision he saw as best but really became a CB4 in the eyes of Raptor fans joining 'Team James' and 'Team Wade' by taking his talents and teams hopes to Miami. Now although this move caused a whole lot of heat (that may even make things cooler for Vince Carter) things have been getting a bit cold up in Toronto for some time now.

It seems like the season of 2006/2007 was an exclamation year for the T-Dot, but now they seem so far gone from the best they ever had. As the years went on cracks appeared like the ice on Toronto streets in April. Personnel left and games dropped. First the Raps iron man Morris Peterson bolted and then their coach Sam Mitchell was given the Terrence Howard treatment. Following that more Toronto heroes would fly, from Hedo Turkoglu to Candace Parker's hot shooting brother Anthony, even the efficient 'garbage man', Jorge Garbajosa was recycled. All this did was leave the desperate franchise in need of more saving like the TD bank, consistently and literally speaking.

Nowadays this team really is looking like a bunch of Dinosaurs. If things don't get better for these Raptors the NBA could make their only remaining franchise outside of the USA extinct. Or they may even look better and feel more at home in the new, developing Canadian Basketball League. Sure Toronto is a big-market and vastly underrated city but an incredible town can't make up for a lacklustre team. Vancouver have already suffered this fate, there are no grizzly bears scaring people in Memphis just overweight Elvis impersonators.

Times have gone all Bob Dylan up north and this change isn't necessary something that these people can believe in. If things don't improve soon for club and country Canada may have no team in the Olympics and no team in the NBA. If Toronto is wiped out it's going to take more than a John Hammond to rebirth and raise these Raptors in another location. This team is lost on an island on their own and need to improve Bosh or no Bosh, Carter or no Carter. Now as far as the Canadian national side are concerned there may only be one Steve Nash but in basketball there are still five players that make a team on the floor. Nash is prepared to pass the torch, so who’s willing to carry it? It's time for these squads to put aside old legends that now just hold them back and look for young prodigies to take them forward.

The Canadian side does have talent however, in the form of guys like Ryan Bell, Andy Rautins, Jermaine Anderson, Carl English and the Miami Heat's Joel Anthony but in front of strong role players they need a poster boy, a Kevin Durant, a star player. In terms of iconic status Steve Nash may be to Canada what Yao Ming is to China but it's now time for Canada to turn over a new leaf and find their next dynasty, just like China are doing. Then Basketball in Canada just may start to run as smooth as syrup again. These 'road warriors' have been through a lot and now it's time for them to battle on without their leader.

The Raptors need to find their next franchise player also. Sure the loss if Chris Bosh was devastating as was the one of Vince Carter but Toronto re-fuelled after their loss of 'Air Canada' and they will rebound after losing their 20 and 10 post man. It's up to general manager Bryan Colangelo to deliver however-much like he has before-and raise this team out of the ashes, truly making them the Phoenix of the East once again. If this is done the right way then (just like the resulting aftermath of Vinsanity) there will be a day that Toronto can also do more than just boo Bosh when he returns downtown.

Developing star and internationally known Andrea Bargnani and dunking dynamo DeMar DeRozan are a great start towards a better finish for the Raps. Although these two guys would normally be second options on other teams, if one or both of these guys step up they could take Toronto up the ladder and out of an Atlantic basement which holds no Eastern promises. This inside/outside tandem could compliment each other very well. This talented range could be to the Raptors advantage, taking them all far. Speaking of which, front-court juggernaut James Johnson and speedy guard Jose Calderon are also two dynamic guards in the backcourt with a wealth of underrated talent. They are fast, they can score, dish and are stars in the making. With these four guys and former Phoenix flame, runner and gunner Leandro Barbosa in the works the Raptors still have a good team. They are just a few pieces away from having a decent line-up that can go deep. The loss of Bosh however is still a big one and the T-Dot would welcome a franchise player with a killer instinct that can take them further than the first NBA hurdle of making the playoffs. Then things could really take off in the Air Canada Centre, before other entertainment takes over and 'Rogers' that.

Now it may not look like it these days when group stage stat lines read 0 for 5, or star players walk away for little in return but Canada is still an important hoops nation. Taking Canada out of the basketball equation would be as amusing as taking John Candy (rest peacefully big man) away from a child. This nation is no joke but the old days are still missed, even if they are seen in a distant view like CN Tower. It just doesn't seem like a half decade ago. You see although he's closed to retirement (not too close, mind you) Canada did birth a player who changed the game in Nash and this revolution was televised on more than just TSN. Canada is still also the sole country outside the U.S. to have a proud and successful NBA team. Those franchises in the U.K. and Asia still haven't taken expansion so right now the NBA's biggest market outside of America shares a home with the Maples Leafs on Bay Street. Still believe it or not this hockey loving nation does give a puck about Basketball. Canada just needs to prove this before more of their courts freeze over and become ice rinks. Time to thaw it out.

BRITISH INTELLIGENCE

2011-09-03T13:10:00.000-07:00

Great Britain's Basketball vision is 20-12.

By TIM DAVID HARVEY

This last week has seen the World Championship Athletics held in the sensational city of Seoul, South Korea be the perfect precursor to next years 2012 Olympic Games, but just a fortnight prior, next years host nation Great Britain held an invitational Basketball tournament as part of the 'London Prepares' series. Luol Deng and has squad may have come only second to China's last place, but they played valiantly and along with neighbours France, Australia, Serbia and Croatia helped stimulate hoop heads thoughts about next year. Held in the Olympic Village and the lemon meringue looking Basketball stadium the developing future of Basketball in Britain is looking different, but good.

The English basketball league too is improving by the year and the recent, repeat champions the Mersey Tigers (formerly under the same umbrella as the football team Everton, but now showing signs of unity by bringing together all of the city of Liverpool) even made it into American basketball magazine 'SLAM' a couple of seasons back. The big focus in the U.K. however is the national side 'Team GB' with less than a year to go to sports biggest stage. The team is looking very strong right now with a decent pool of talent. This team has come a long way from the days when their most famous player was John Amaechi, who over recent years has become more infamous for his 'coming out' book rather than the talents he had as a player. Thankfully these days the reason British basketball is getting exposure is due to what is happening on court, not what the tabloids get caught up on. Amaechi's coming out was a brave statement of solidarity with similar athletes living in fear of discrimination but too many media outlets put a negative spin on a barrier-breaking, change-making decision and declaration. This G.B. legend however gave his inspiration and now he's paving the way for future idols.

The talent is leaving fans drooling at the mouth more than Beethoven (the dog from the movies, not the composer, but everything is being conducted well and sounds so good) and Glen Davis combined. The anticipation is so big that the team’s official webpage is named www.gameongb.com. The reason that this anticipation is so high could have something to do with the fact that the team features two prominent NBA stars who have declared that they will play for both club and country, Luol Deng and Ben Gordon.

These are two guys that are not only former teammates (with the Chicago Bulls) and players experienced in winning big games, they are also real, developed talent. They are guys that Team GB doesn’t have to wait on; they are already big time contributors. Gone are the days where British fans would hang on to the little British ties stars had like Steve Nash's family roots or the fact that Ray Allen spent time in Ipswich. British basketball finally has its cover stars.

Luol Deng was born in Wau, Sudan, but is of British nationality after emigrating to Brixton. Luol has been the 'new' poster boy of British basketball for some time now. He has climbed up the Chicago Bulls ranks past players who at first where seen as guys who would leave this dynamic forward languishing on the bench. He has spent year after year in the NBA whilst withstanding consuming injury and international duty to craft himself as one of the top tier talents in this league in scoring and all round play. He even spearheaded the NBA Europe Live exhibition game featuring his then victorious Chicago Bulls against the Utah Jazz held in London in 2009. In this game he displayed his talents and leadership for not only his team but his country. He did this in front of his hometown fans from Brixton and other corners of London and the whole world watching on national and international television.

Ben Gordon, who was born in Britain and has dual citizenship with the U.S. may no longer be playing alongside Luol in Chicago but the experience he garnered doing this will pay off in dividends for him and his former running mate and more importantly his national side. Ben was a big time player in the Chi. He was and still is quick, clutch and savvy. Alongside Deng, Gordon was one of the Bulls premier go to guys leading the stampede. His charges included making dangerously deep shots and forceful aggression at the basket, both leading to points made and proved. Even in his rookie year Gordon was so hot that Chicago was almost declaring that there was a new Benny the Bull in town. Ben's college experience with the University of Connecticut’s NCAA Championship team gave him veteran confidence in his first year. We all remember his teardrop against the Knicks. These days Ben has been given the responsibility as one if the main Pistons motoring forward the new, rebuilt Detroit franchise. The location may have changed but the game hasn't. Ben Gordon is still one of the freshest, developing talents in the league.

So in this Team GB set Luol will be the 'franchise' guy leading the way on the court and in the team’s heart. Ben will be more than 'the other guy' or 'the co-pilot'. He'll be the big time scorer and more importantly the clutch player, which in international competition against talented teams such as Spain and Argentina could be decisive. Team GB's talents don't just begin and end with Deng and Gordon however. The talent derived from the national basketball organisations of England, Scotland and Wales is full of young, hungry ballers. Ballers like Tottenham born, former Toronto Raptors, versatile forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu and swingman/team captain Andrew Sullivan's anchoring talents and leadership. Head Coach Chris Finch and his assistants Tony Garbelotto, Tim Lewis and Nick Nurse also steady the ship and have their sights set on a new beginning for a team who only ever made the Olympics once in 1948.

The interesting thing about this team is that even as the host nation for the 2012 Olympics their place wasn't guaranteed. That was until they showed and proved their improvement and competitiveness to FIBA, the international basketball federation. From the looks of things this team looks ready to get even better and better. Lead by two NBA go to guys with renewed focus and motivation behind them this team looks ready to give the next year and their final destination of the Olympic Games everything they have. Which, by the looks of it appears to be a lot more than most people think.

Game on.

IN DEFENCE

2011-09-02T17:41:00.001-07:00

Watching the throne.

By Tim David Harvey

Defense wins championships. Sure it's a boring notion but it's an accurate one as well. That's why the Boston Celtics have so many banners. That's why Ron Artest won Game 7 in the 2010 NBA Finals and that's why Bill Russell remains the real lord of the rings.

The Lakers three-peat run was brought to an abrupt end in Texas this year, but before that they where back to back champions and you can't spell 'double' without 'D'. Historically they are known for their 'Showtime' offence and Kobe Bryant is one of the associations greatest ever players and offensive threats, but the Lakers are much more than prolific scorers. In defending the throne that now crowns the Dallas Mavericks, L.A. will need to step up their defensive play once again. You can't spell 'dominance' or 'dynasty' without a lot of 'D' either, first and foremost. The Lakers have become a great defensive team and have learned from their 2008 Finals loss to Boston and their 2004 heartbreak in Detroit, now ts time to learn from last years disappointment. They have learned that you can score on someone all you like, but if you can't stop them, it's all Dirk and it's all over.

Now the Lake Show is stocked full of great stoppers. Gasol, Bynum and Odom are all good defenders in the post and as for the backcourts ability you can charge that to their warrior Derek Fisher. The Lakers bench may often be overlooked in favour for the Hollywood elite that sits behind them but these players certainly can take offence too, from the points made by experienced veteran Steve Blake or the youthful exuberance of sophomore Devin Ebanks.

To win big games though you need difference makers. The Lakers have that on both ends of the floor but when it comes to defence the Lakers have a three pronged attack that can lock down even the best in the league. Why do they have this? They have this because they've got three of the best perimeter defenders in the league, one of the first lines of defence in Basketball. They've last years acquired free agent Matt Barnes. They've got former 'Defensive Player of the Year' Ron Artest and they've got Kobe Bryant, a Basketball legend on both ends of the floor.

So when you've got three of your best defenders in the L guarding your best player (or best two players for that matter), you've got trouble. The Lakers could play two of these guys at a time, with one guy tagging in off the bench or all three at once. Either way it's about to become real hard for any team to match up with the Lakers as their best athletes wrestle with the competition. Even Dallas' three balls may call shenanigans on a healthy defensive big three, Miami or anybody will find it hard to beat. It doesn't matter who you are. Even if you think you've got the luck of the Boston Irish. Even if your names Tim Duncan or Dwight Howard. Any dream team will suffer a nightmare playing this three headed monster. No player wants to screw with this ménage a trois.

It all begins with Kobe. The franchise player, the' go to guy'. He makes all the big plays, not every time (we see you Pau, Lamar, Derek and Ron) but nine times out of ten. The clutch shots may be remembered and rotated on youtube for decades but his key steals and blocks ice games just as well. See Kobe suffers from the same thing all star players do. People focus on all the exciting things too much that the intangibles get overlooked. Lets take Basketball back to the basics. Kobe is a 'guard' after all, even if he is a 'shooting guard'.

Kobe may have made the NBA All-Defensive team year after year but his work on the 'other' end of the floor is still very much underrated. Put it this way, who do people talk about more, the 'Defensive Player Of The Year' or the league MVP? Sure highlights are highlights but the 'little' things that are done and that don't show up on the stat sheet are just as important. As a matter of fact these aren't 'little' things anyway. Everything in Basketball is a big thing and the difference between achieving the 'W' or being left games behind.

Kobe doesn't just go at the opposing teams best player, he guards them too. Bryant has good wingspan, he's strong, he holds his own and most importantly, he's fearless. Kobe is so competitive and has a killer instinct that is matched by nobody in this league...nobody. Number 24 doesn't just want to beat you...he wants to stop you too. A Black Mamba can kill you in more ways than one and the self dubbed 'Doberman' of the Beijing Olympics doesn't bark, he bites. Just like when he won a gold medal Bryant showed that he is just as dedicated to hounding someone on defence as he is at being chased on offence, even if it was his teammate and friend Pau on the Spanish side. It's all about no mercy. Still, not only do the Lakers have one of the best all-round players guarding their house, they've also let two more hungry dogs off the leash.

The Lakers may have lost some 'Showtime', when they gave up Trevor Ariza in the free agent period of 2009 but they picked up a real 'show stopper' when they acquired Ron Artest back off Houston. Ariza was a big reason the Lakers won in 2009 but Artest was an even bigger reason why the Lakers repeated in 2010. Sure when the Lakers lost Ariza's athleticism they lost a lot of speed but having Ron Artest slow things down on defence isn't exactly a bad thing. Ron can see the game like Magic and blind his opponents outputs with his tricks. See a player who can see the game developing in a much slower way can master the court and therefore the game itself. A player like this sees plays before they happen. A player like this wins championships and becomes legendary. A player like this sees the game like Earvin Johnson. This is no illusion, great minds think alike and great players move in time.

Now Ron, Ron may not move with the quickness but what Artest doesn't have in speed he makes up for 100 times over in strength. He may not look like he could run track but he's built like he could play football. Imagine trying to get round a pick set by this guy. Or imagine exhaustively managing to elude Kobe after being chased around the court only to be hit and bounced by Artest. Now even the strong body of LeBron James couldn't put up with much of this punishment. There's no peace from World, on the war of the court, Metta lays it down with authority like a gavel. When it comes to legendary defence, he's as guilty as charged. Ron is getting his Pat Riley on again and promising another championship like when he took the blame for 2010, Artest is guaranteeing twenty twelve will be the end of the competition like John Cusack films do the world.

Any team in this league can throw anything they want at the Lakers because they have the players to counter. When the Lakers picked up Pau Gasol in 2008 Kobe remarked that he wasn't going to war with 'butter knives' anymore, well now he and his Lakers aren't lying in trenches either. Their standing in a fort. Let's take nothing away from this brilliant Miami team crafted last Summer but with last years the pick up of Barnes, the Lakers can match them, outlast them and even challenge and defeat them. Think about it they match up piece for piece. Chris Bosh has Bynum, Gasol and Odom to deal with in the post while Kobe and LeBron will face off. This leaves Dwyane Wade, not open but closed off by both Barnes and Artest. Checkmate. Denzel sitting courtside knows this. This is chess not checkers.

Barnes can burn his opponents with his play, with his defensive smarts inked in to him like his tattoo's ingrained. Built with a slashers body, sure he can score but he can take more stabs out of his opponents final box score. Plus with the Ariza like replacement of Devin Ebanks in the potential bank, the Lakers perimeter power looks to go forth. Still with all three defenders on the court at the same time the Lakers become arguably the most powerful offensive and the most powerful defensive team in the league. Then, even when Kobe takes five (or more like two) on the bench, the Lakers still have two of the best players in the league disarming the opposing teams primary weapon. When Kobe is back on the court during crunch time he can focus more on the offence when he knows his first and second line of defence has his back.

The reason these guys excel in the lost art of defence is attributed to much more than 'just' their strength, their positioning or their undeniable, proven talent. The reason these guys are three of the top ten defenders in the league is because they share the same three attributes that every player needs to become a premier defender in this league. These attributes are courage, passion and competitiveness. Bryant, Artest and Barnes have the die hard bravery to risk anything and everything to win and they have the passion that goes beyond the 'I Love This Game' slogan. This is because they want to win and rule this game that they love. It's one thing loving something, it's another thing to actually 'want' the thing you love. Now as far as competitiveness is concerned we needn’t get into it...but we will.

How competitive are these guys? Well look at it this way these guys may be team-mates now but before as opponents, there was no love lost. These guys where far from friends. We remember Ron in Kobe's face all series long as Houston and LA sparred in the 2009 Playoffs. Also how can we forget Barnes and Bryant getting into it in 2010 during a Magic, Lakers game? Things got so heated that Barnes even faked throwing an inbounds pass right at Kobe's face! Bryant even one-upped Barnes however by coolly not even flinching at this. Kobe just stared right through the ball and right through Matt owning the moment. Chris Rock knows this kind of humiliation. These friends are anything but when it comes to the competitive nature of the game. Cold as the ice in their veins and cold blooded with a Rick James slap.

Kobe is without a doubt the most competitive player in this league. When Barnes and Artest showed they weren't fazed by this legend they earned more than just Kobe's frustration and attention. They earned his respect. It's almost like it was all written, just like K.B. was testing these two guys, but the fact is Kobe plays like this against everyone. The thing that separates Artest and Barnes from the rest was their willingness to see Kobe's competitiveness and up the ante. Now as team-mates what separates these two from the rest is their willingness to put this old rivalry aside in order to come together with the same passion for the same goal. That's what separates a Ron Artest and a Matt Barnes from a Raja Bell. This is what separates ordinary players from champions.

With three of the most competitive, passionate and aggressive players on the same page defensively the Lakers become as strong as any defensive minded team they've tried to overcome over the last ten years. dding this element to an already championship calibre team gives the Lakers that extra dimension, that Championship x-factor. Los Angeles now on both ends of the floor has a team like no other. A team that is both dominant in the paint and on the perimeter. They may not have a 'Dream' team like in Miami and Dallas may have given them a year off but what they do have is a dynasty in the making. Now that's real. Don't sleep. The giant has woken up. The champ is here. Case in point, the defence rests. Until next season.