HIBACHI 2.0

Woman hold her head and cry

2010-09-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

Cause her son had been shot down in the street and died

This is not a rebirth, consider it more like a repeating radio frequency in the post apocalyptic world. Sure i 'retired' in the most Mo Williams-esque way possible after we all mutually abandoned this blog. I feel bad that i did that. This site deserves better. We were all ambitious and i dont see why we gave up.

The fact remains that we did. I want to stick the size 13 pair of Generic Surplus boots im rocking right now up my own ass and everyone else's on here. Take that comment for what it is. We had something special going here and we fucking blew it.

In basketball news, the Bobcats are working out Javaris Critteron, Antonie Walker, Darius Miles, and Larry Hughes. Players that are NBA cult classics so to speak are now fighting for a roster spot on my #1 favorite team. I would say some shit but that joke writes itself.

It appears my boy Durant is the new Golden Boy after Lebron has morphed into LeCrimminal in the eyes, hearts, and souls of mainstream America. I cant say i didnt see it coming, but since this place is shut down (for good most likely) i have nowhere to jump up and down and shout i told you so.

- Cat out.

The Revolution Will be Televised

2010-07-10T06:01:00.000-07:00

-Hursty-

I don't need to name names here. No need to show no pic.
You know exactly who I'm talking about. He-who-shall-not-be-named.
...
If you were given a job offer to work with a higher quality staff, recieve a salary just as good and have co-workers who you knew would show up every day, for the entire season... you'd take that job. No doubt in my mind I would.

He owes people? Owes them what? He played 7 years for them. In some pro-sports, that's a career. Track & Field? You get 1 Olympics, maybe 2 if you're lucky (on average).
Nah, he shouldn't have announced his decision the way he did, that was wrong. But to burn dude's jersey? C'mon. Weak. "You're better than that!".

If your company owner came out of his box and said something like that.. do you really wanna play for that team, knowing that any time you left, you'd get vitriole sprayed at you?
(Now, who as a FA is going to want to play there, if all else is equal? Fool.)
So, who's the more foolish? The fool, or the fool who follows him? In this case, it's the latter.
"Child please."
...
Speaking of Revolutions, the Bucks have quietly got a lot better this off-season, acquiring Gooden & re-signing Salmons. Bogut will be good to go come training camp.
Miami has improved as well, adding a certified post-threat in Boozer, and Utah has improved through addition by subtraction.
...
I'm excited for this next season, I really am.
Beware the Nazgul.
Hursty.

Oh you fancy huh

2010-07-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

Summertime...and the livin's easy....

Summer kicks ass. Recovery was good, Thank Me Later was good. Pilot Talk comes out like next week, Yeezy dropping tracks (the actual version of "Power"), Cudi dropping tracks (Revofev), and Big Sean (meh), Ye and Cudi all have albums dropping on the same day in September? We'll see if the plan stays like that. Big Boi in two days? I'll read the reviews before I buy it, haha.

Free Agency, huh. To me, this stuff's annoying. I've always been a LeBron fan because I had to take a side in the Bron-Kobe argument, and I hate Kobe, so LeBreezy is the natural choice. But he's making it harder and harder for me to like him. Screw it then, Chris Paul is the best player in the league (not really). I'm giving up on the argument, though, because I don't like either one of them right about now....LeBron, stay in Cleveland. The fans love you, you finally have a competent coach, and you're from the area. You want to be one of the greatest to put on a jersey? How many of the GREATS changed uniforms? Wilt doesn't count. Do what's best for your career, you have enough cheese already to last eight lifetimes.

But I'll play along, I have my official predictions. Bosh and Wade in Miami. Amar'e in New York. Bron stays because I want him to. JJ looks like he's staying in the ATL. But all of this contract BS that comes during these summers sucks; I love hoops because of the game and I try to ignore the fact that they make millions and millions off of it. But I'm not complaining, I know that it's a big market job, and whoever's the best at what they do in the world makes that kind of dough. But it's annoying; just play for your team and make it about loyalty. I don't blame Bosh, though.

Also, I'm actually kind of mad that the Celtics signed Pierce for the next four years. FOUR. He'll be 36. They basically just did this because it's Pierce, and he wants to end his career here. It was smart of him to opt out, because we probably wouldn't have re-upped with him because his drop-off is imminent. He's one of the least athletic SF's in the league, and that won't help him out once he gets older. But he's aging gracefully. I'm still surprised that Danny signed him for so long, though...he's been talking about how he wants to get younger. I liked the Bradley draft pick, too.

Also....draft. Orlando! Stanley Robinson, Daniel Orton? High-risk picks, yes, but there's real athleticism between those guys. They could be huge players. LAC scored as well. REALLY scored. But the Clippers will forever and always suck, so I don't know if it really makes a difference. How did the rest of the league let Devin Ebanks fall to the Lakers? Criminal...also, SacTown big men can be a force for years to come. Cousins, Whiteside, Dalembert, Landry....and you guys know Jason Thompson is my dude. Omri Casspi? Tyreke Evans? Francisco Garcia? This team could screw around and make the playoffs next year.

Germany, Netherlands, Uruguay, Spain. I want a Spain-Netherlands final, but Germany is ON FIRE right now. ON FIRE. What's on fire in German? "In Brand". They DEMOLISHED Messi and Argentina. Destroyed. Nobody's beating Deutschland right now. But I'm rooting for Holland....even though Torres is my dude.

Happy Independence Day, everyone. Waving those flags.

--Moose

New Jersey...Favors

2010-06-24T15:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Mikhail Prokhorov,
You want to come into New Jersey and create a championship contender? Then I recommend one man to help you do the job.

If you want to take Cousins, you can. It's a fine pick. But I recommend the Beast from the ATL. Crazy potential. But then again, it's your call. You and your guys. We'll know in a half an hour.

--Moose

Greatest R'N'B/Soul Album of All-Time?

2010-06-20T05:59:00.001-07:00

What is it...?

Who is the greatest artist?

Usher?
Aretha Franklin?
The Temptations?
Lauryn Hill?
Michael Jackson? (Even though he's the "King of Pop".)

Note: this is not hip-hop, therefore, Nas etc can't be included.

Thank Me....Now.

2010-06-10T17:44:00.000-07:00

Yes, the NBA Finals are going on right now, but I'm going to go ahead and post something that has absolutely nothing to do with the current basketball situation. These games are on way too damn late. Yeh, I got school for another week (Vontae...you guys were done like three months ago. C'mon son, Ghostface style. Congrats on Ole Miss as well), and I don't like staying up until midnight watching these games to get like 6-7 hours of sleep a night. Doesn't work for me, because by the end of the game I don't even care as much anymore just because I'm so happy to get to bed. Once summer starts I'll get some sleep, but for now...gotta get to bed before 11.

But whatever, this is a must-win tonight. If we don't win tonight, I'm pretty much throwing in the towel. But Garnett v. Gasol is really the x-factor in the game today. But on to this next month which should be frickin' awesome because of...

The World Cup starts tomorrow. I can't tell you how pumped I am for this. Yeah, I know that nobody else on this blog gives a crap about soccer, but the rest of the world does, and I do, too. And the Yanks (that's team USA's nickname, for you American football fans) actually have a shot this year at doing more than a three-and-out. They can really make an impact on this Cup, but Landon Donovan really needs to be on his game. They should be able to get out of Group C, and it would be unreal if they beat England on Saturday. But...not if Wayne has anything to say about it. I hope we pull it out.

Spain or Argentina are my champs. Messi is incredible and Spain plays with too much flopping (like most of the EPL, Champions League, etc...European soccer.), and Torres' hair kinda pisses me off for some reason, so I'll go with Argentina once the US gets bounced (IF the US gets bounced. haha). Should be a fun tourney. Dempsey and Onyewu are my favorite players...Clint because of his creativity and entertaining risks, and Oguchi Onyewu because he's a center back...and I'm a center back. Michael Bradley is a hard-ass, which convinced everyone that even the coach's kid needs to earn a spot. I'm pumped for the US's showing in this cup. Should be sick.

Does anyone hate when you've been following a music dude and then he/she/they blow up and then you look like a bandwagon-hopper? It's happened way too much with me. I mean, I know a ton of other people know the artist, but then they get airplay and all of the middle-schoolers know who they are. Just happened with Cudi, B.o.B, Wale, and is about to happen with Mike Posner. And B.o.B's new stuff (album) isn't even close to his old stuff (B.o.B v.s. Bobby Ray, Who The F*ck is B.o.B?). Posner's more pop-ish than hip hop, but he's pretty much a combo and some of his ish can be pretty damn infectious. And now he's got something that's 19th on the Billboard Hot 100. Sorry about my rant. It's a pet peeve of mine.

Has anyone heard much of Outasight? Dude is nasty most of the time...I hate some of his ish, I have to admit, but I think he's nasty on the whole. He lists his musical influences as A Tribe Called Quest, Marvin Gaye, Talib Kweli, Stevie Wonder and Jimi Hendrix. That's three of my top five artists on that list, and I listen to all of them constantly. Yes, Kweli is my favorite rapper of all time. As far as "conscious" rap goes, nobody can touch him lyrically. Mos+Kweli=beauty. In a musical way.

Drake's video for Find Your Love is frickin' amazing. Thing makes you think. I've watched it 4 or 5 times and gotten goosebumps every time. Thing is amazing. I liked Find Your Love. Not strictly a hip hop song, more 808s, but....I liked 808s. I have a wicked broad music taste, and I loved the song, for real. Power by Yeezy? I'm having trouble liking it....but he better do a good ass job on....Good Ass Job. Looking forward to it. Thank Me Later comes out in five days. No, I didn't listen to the leaks of the whole album, I feel like the dude has put out enough tapes for us to give the dough. I'm getting it on the day, have high expectations....I'll let you guys know what I think of it. I'm sure you all care deeply what I think of it.

I'm out like Ray Allen in Game 3 (what the hell??).

Rest In Peace

2010-06-04T19:29:00.001-07:00

He will be missed. Wisest man on the planet.

Who wants it more?

2010-06-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I saw people with sleeping bags outside of the TD Garden, lined up. The line stretched down the entire stadium, and across three streets. Every single person was wearing some sort of Celtics gear. Tickets went on sale today. The Finals will come down to one question: Who wants it more?

I'm going with the C's and the best fans in the league.

Celtics v.s. Lakers Finals Preview

2010-05-23T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Eastern Conference Finals are over. I know, it's hard to say that after the Bruins' epic meltdown in the NHL playoffs that I heard so much about from the Beantown hockeyheads. But that was the fourth time in the history of sports that a team has come back from down three down in a seven game series, and really, Orlando's given up, even if they're masking it better than Cleveland did. So, the next games in this series are moot. And come on, the Suns aren't winning this series. If I'm wrong about this, and there is a Finals with either Phoenix or Orlando in it, then feel free to never take my NBA opinion seriously again. So, I'm going to go onto previewing the series, starting with matchups...

Point Guard: Rajon Rondo v.s. Derek Fisher
This is the most obvious pick in the whole series in terms of match-ups. Rondo needs to exploit Fisher. Rajon Rondo's success has been my ultimate I-told-you-so of my NBA following life so far, and he hasn't disappointed one bit in the playoffs. They're talking about him being the best all-around PG in the league now, and he's certainly the best in the East. Say nothing about Rose, it isn't even close. This dude wants to win, and he's been carrying them through every series. Boston needs Rondo to keep playing like he can for them to have a chance at this series, and going against Fisher is the ideal scenario. The only trouble it could cause Rondo is if he gets into foul trouble amidst Fisher's selling (coughFLOPPINGcough) calls, but I don't see it being a huge problem.
EDGE: Celtics

Shooting Guard: Ray Allen v.s. Kobe Bryant
Kobe is still the craftiest player in the game, and he will definitely get his. Because he can beat you with points or dimes, he's effective no matter how you play him. Allen is a hot-and-cold shooter, and the Celtics need him to shoot if they want to win. Every time Ray gets going, the Celtics win. Every time. With a defender like Kobe on him, that could be a tall order for a player who isn't quite the speed type. Allen should drive to the whole often to get Bynum/Gasol in foul trouble. Kobe will be a big part of this series with Ray, because the Celtics will often put Tony Allen in to guard him on the perimeter. This will allow the Lakers to double-team shooters like Pierce or Garnett without having to worry about Tony's gawd-awful shooting on the perimeter. But Kobe wants to be talked about with Jordan in the GOAT arguments, and he's going to be looking for blood. Everyone knows who gets this one.
EDGE: Lakers

Small Forward: Paul Pierce v.s. Ron Artest
Pierce started off the playoffs shooting very poorly, even with his game-winner against Miami. Once the Orlando series started, though, the Captain came back and has been shooting the lights out at a 58% clip, and Matt Barnes, a supreme defender, was, well, defenseless. Artest will body up on Pierce all day, and will try to bully him off the dribble. Artest is the third or fourth option on the Lake Show, and his offensive skill set isn't enough to make a huge impact on the Boston defense. It all comes down to how Artest plays Pierce. It's close, but, based on how PDubs has been playing as of late, I'm going to say...
EDGE: Celtics

Power Forward: Kevin Garnett v.s. Pau Gasol
There's no question who the best player of these two is. Gasol was the best power forward in the league this past year, and his offensive skill set will create problems for the Celtics. But, that isn't necessarily against Garnett. Glen Davis will get a lot of time against Pau while Garnett gets old-man-rest-time, and when that happens Gasol will pick him apart. The fact that Gasol shies from contact is a big deal for Boston; they need to get physical with Pau. If they fail to do that, then it'll hurt them. KG has been playing like, well, KG on offense and defense for the past couple of series', and it's been huge for the Celtics. This match-up is full of conditionals and questions, and it will be fun to watch. But, ultimately, it's obvious who has the advantage right off the bat.
EDGE: Lakers

Center: Andrew Bynum v.s. Kendrick Perkins
I don't know the status of Bynum's knee, and I don't think anyone does, and it could all be different by the time the Finals start, but as of now, nobody really knows. He's been playing about 20 minutes a night, and he's still been effective. Reports have said that he might be all right by the end of their series, and for preview purposes let's just say that's what's going to happen. Kendrick Perkins will have no offensive impact on this series whatsoever. Bynum might. He has a significant size advantage over Perk, and even though it will be a good physical battle, Perkins might foul himself all the way to the bench whole Bynum dunks all over him. Perkins' defensive presence will still be there, however. So, it's hard to know now, but as I see it, if everything's okay, Bynum has it. IF.
Edge: Lakers

Bench: Glen Davis, Tony Allen, Rasheed Wallace v.s. Lamar Odom, Jordan Farmar and Shannon Brown
Lamar Odom is definitely the best player in either bench, by far. Odom is a huge blow to the Celtics, simply because he's an answer to any question. If you want scoring, he'll bring it. If you need dimes, he'll dish 'em. If you need rebounds, he'll grab 19 or so boards (see: Game 1). The dude is unstoppable, and he's huge. But, GBBD has been playing like a starter, Sheed has been playing the way that we intended him to play when they signed him before the season started, and TA has been bringing the defensive energy and offensive athleticism that propelled the Celtics past the Cavs. Farmar and Brown are solid, but they can't match up to the rest of the Celtics' red-hot bench. Even though Odom could start for almost all teams in the League.
Edge: Celtics

It's hard to make a prediction on this series. The size, athleticism, star power and experience that the Lakers have is undeniable, and everyone kew that they'd make it this far. The Celtics are a different story. Nobody thought they'd get past the first or second round, much less all the way to the Finals. But, the Celtics are definitely looking like the team that wants to win more than any other. They have shown a desire that has led them past the best teams in the league, and their savvy will be hard for the Lakers to get past.

In the end, the desire, deep roster, and a certain young point guard will prove to be too much for the huge and athletic Lakers. In seven tough, slow-paced (as both teams like) games, the Celtics will tough it out. I doubted them up until this point, and they are looking to secure their second championship in three years against the LAL. Should be a great series. Getcha popcorn ready...

--Moose

Give Me Peace Of Mind.. I Got 21 Questions.

2010-05-10T23:31:00.000-07:00

So, I gotta know...

Who's coming outta the West? And who's coming outta the East?
If you take Rondo and James off of their respective squads, which team wins the series based on performances thus far?
How much money has the NBA lost in tickets/merchandise/tv advertisements etc because of the three sweeps in the second round? It has to be in the tens of millions.
Where do the Hawks go from here? Does Woody stay on as the Head Coach? What about Joe Johnson?
Is Dirk leaving?
What about Boozer?
Chris Bosh?
Are the Spurs going to get blown up?
How will the Rockets fair next year with a healthy Yao back in the line-up? More importantly, does he stay or get traded?
LeBron...
Wade...
Why do the All-NBA Defensive teams suck so much? Where are Ariza, Battier and Hayes?
Why are the Dodgers and Diamondbacks so f*king bad?
Why is there a Winter? Nobody likes Winter.
How long will the Suns be able to hang around with the Lakers for? It could be a very, very clean house for the Suns. Or it could be a 7 game series.
How come people eat spinach? That sh*t is disgusting.
How old is 15 really?
If you have four people naked in a row, how many legs are there? Two of the people are white, one is from The Philipians, and one is African.
Is Lady Gaga a man?
What are your top 5 ways to procrastinate?
DP, what college did you end up deciding on?

Peace, Hursty

RIP Guru

2010-04-20T17:09:00.001-07:00

Rest In Peace to an iconic rapper and Boston's best of all time, 1/2 of Gang Starr, Guru. Tragic for hip hop fans, even if it did seem inevitable for awhile there.

Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal.

Hot hot heat

2010-04-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

It was 90 degrees in Boston all day today (For Hursty and the rest of the world, that's over 32 degrees celsius). On April 7 in New England, that's unheard of. And tomorrow, the high is 58. I've heard about global warming, I saw An Inconvenient Truth, and if this isn't climate change then I don't know what is. A forty-degree change between two days is ridiculous.

There has been some "climate change" in the NBA lately. Two examples: the Boston Celtics and the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Celtics have flat-out sucked lately. They've lost four out of the last five games, and the win was to the Cavs, who own the best record in the league and have clinched homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs. So that was a good win, but they still blew a 20 point lead in the fourth, so it left a bad taste in Celtics fans' mouths. The losses came to the Spurs (understandable), Thunder (understandable), the Rockets without Kevin Martin, Shane Battier and Trevor Ariza (shouldn't have happened) and the Knicks (inexcusable).

The Celtics' painful inconsistency has been embarrassing lately for a Celtics fan. I'm not embarrassed about losing--the wins and losses will come, especially when your team is aging quickly, it can all be expected. But the reason that it's been embarrassing lately is some of their apparent arrogance. Garnett is still jawing, and he can't back it up. So is the rest of the team. THAT is the embarrassing part. I can't apologize for the club that I root for, but if I could, I would. I wish the Celts could just shut up and play as hard as they can.

Which is something they haven't been doing lately, apparently. In the paper I've read countless quotes about how "their hearts aren't in it". It's a pretty quick turnaround that the Celtics have had lately. I'm not saying they're out of it, I'm not--but their ball lately has been painfully inconsistent for sure. Especially from the point of view of a MA resident and Celtics fan. It just bugs me that they're complaining about the calls WHILE the other team is putting up a layup on the other side.

The OKC Thunder sucked last year. AND the year before. But a lot of us knew that they would come around and be a playoff team in the future (I see you, BET), and right now, I see them as a formidable foe in the playoffs in the West this year. Yeah, their average age is 23. Which only means that they're ready to take the league by storm in years to come. Durantula going off for 40 seemingly every night. People haven't caught on yet, but Russell Westbrook is a nightly triple-double threat. Jeff Green is insanely versatile. The one thing that this Thunder team is missing is a decent center. After that....the league's theirs.

I feel like I (maybe all of us) can relate to this team more than any other because of their youth, style of play and tight-knit-ness off the court, because that's the sort of cameraderie that I feel with my friends/teammates, and they do things that we all do, based on articles I read and quotes that I hear. This team is so intriguing and fun to watch, when I was watching them own the Celtics in the fourth the other night, I found it hard to know who I was rooting for. And that NEVER happens, it was just impulse.

So, the NBA waters have been churning lately, and new things have been coming out for these seasons. I'm not saying that these huge turnarounds are unpredictable, but who knew that Garnett was gonna fall off THIS much, and that OKC would be near the top of the West NOW?

Then again, did anyone predict that the hottest day of the year in Beantown could end up coming at the beginning of April?

--Moose

Game Notes! Hawks @ Bobcats

2010-04-06T16:03:00.001-07:00

-By Hursty-

Whadddddup!
So, these are live game notes of the Hawks/'Cats clash (duh).

Hawks are at 49-26, Cats at 40-36 on the season.

I'm watching the feed from the local Atlanta station, so don't get mad at me if 'Nique gets all excited, and I decide to write about.. whatever it is he's rambling on about.

Joe Johnson and Mike Bibby are both out today, so it's likely Jamal Crawford will get the start. Jeff Teague is expected to see extended minutes off the bench.

J-Creezy had a 50pt game against the Bobcats last year, just fyi.

Well, looks like Teague and Mo Evans will start tonight, Crawford will begin the game oooon the bench.

1st Quarter:

Diaw takes Evans in the post, then Smoove takes Diaw. Touch'e sir.

Teague is super quick, but... can't really control it. Gets his shot blocked by Ratliff (yes, Theo is still in the L), then turns it over a few possessions later. Charlotte lead 10-6 early.

Wallace misses a fast-break dunk, but makes amends 20 seconds later, and the 'Cats lead 14-6. Time out Hawks.

Boris Diaw's ass looks bigger in HD.

Wallace throws down a 'meh' alley-oop off the inbounds, assist to Diaw.
Crawford checks in.

Mario West is in the game for "defensive purposes". It's 21-10 Cats.

Mo Evans sucks, and Mario can't dribble the ball. Half-court trap? West has never heard of it.

Bobcats are just dominating all facets of the game right now. Good interior defense, strong transition game, and they're finishing at the rack - unless Smoove gets a piece of it.

28-12 Cats are up.

Diaw gets a nice seal, feeds it to Tyson Chandler, who's just checkd in. Chandler throws down. Then Mario West goes baseline for the strong jam over Chandler.

Oh, man. Atlanta looks UGLY without Joe Johnson in the line-up. Bibby not so much, but Joe just does so much for the Hawks. Crawford airballs a 3 at the buzzer to end the 1st Q.

Bobcats have 11 made field goals. They've also got 11 assists. Efficiency at it's best.

-2nd Quarter-

Just quietly, Raymond Felton looks like he's been taking dieting advice from Boris.

Tyrus Thomas checks in and promptly commits an offensive foul. Yay!

Bobcats lead is "cut" to 14, after it had blown out to 20. Chandler decides to take matters into his own hands however, and on the third attempt gets a put-back to go. *Insert celebatory fist-pump*

Josh Smith is the only dude on the Hawks who's contributing offensively, and he's doing it off offensive rebounds and put-backs. 'Cats are still up by 17 though.

Crawford has 11 now, Wallace leads all scorers with 16. Actually, make that 18 - opportunity for an And-1. Smoove picks up his 3rd foul.

Wallace has 19, Smoove has a seat. Bobcats lead 51-33.

Wallace is just silky smooth. Another 3pt play gives him 22. Can I say he's in Predator mode?

Bobcats force another turnover. Ugly, ugly, ugly. Evans looses the ball off of his foot. Chandler gets an And-1 dunk (he hits the FT as well).

Cats finish the half with an 11-3 run, and lead 59-36 at the half.

-3rd Quarter-

Crawford starts in place of Teague, no suprise there. Horford kicks things off with a 15 footer, Felton misses, Crawford throws up a brick, then Felton decides to drive, $ money.

Hahaha, Diaw blocks Josh Smith's lay-up attempt, then misses the easy lay-up. He redeems himself 20 seconds later though.

Crawford hits a 3, and it's 63-43. Wait, no. S Jax hits a 3.

J-Creezy leads the Hawks in: pts (14), 3's (2), assists (4), minutes and turn-over's.

Hawks cut it to 14 after Smith blocks Wallace and gets a transition lay-up at the other end. Annnnd, Felton knocks down a 3.

Boris Diaw triple double alert! He's got 12, 7, 5 and most suprisingly... 2 blocks!
Wallace has 22 and 4. S-Jax has 8, 4, 3 and 2.

The T.V shows a great stat - the Bobcats have only lost 9 games at home this season. Orlando and the Hawks have only lost 7. Talk about protecting your home-court advantage.

Hmmm, Hawks have cut it to 13. 75-62, after Crawford knocks down a 3. Evans does likewise, and it's now a 10 point game. Hawks have also gone to a zone.

Charlotte takes time, and quickly disintegrates the Atlanta zone, peppering it from the perimeter. Bobcats lead 82-67 with 1.05 remaining in the 3rd.

-4th Quarter-

Bah, boring 4th so far. Most interesting thing so far is Wallace jumping into the 3rd row.

Teague hits a 3, cutting it to 10. Teague slids into the paint for two. But Evans and Wallace
answer the call. Evans has three 3's.

Bobcats lead 102-88. D.J Augustine has come to life. Wallace is still scoring at will, he's got 28. 5.45 remaining in the 4th.

The crowd is doing mexican waves... good times. 105-92 'Cats lead. Tyson Chandler is 6/7 from
the FT line. What!

Great hustle by Diaw - of all people - leads to a 2nd chance opportunity for the 'Cats. Josh Smith deflects a potential alley-oop to Chandler, who goes sprawling. Anyways, Diaw has 15, 9, 9, a steal and two blocks, 1 turn-over.

Charlotte lead 105-94, with 2.27 remaining in the 4th.

Shoutout to Betcats! Whaddddup man!

Neither team is particularly motivated to close out the game, and Charlotte trots out with a W.

Happy birthday to S-Jax, who turned 32(!) yesterday.

Diaw finishes with 17, 9, 9, 2, 1.

G-Force finishes with a game-high 28 and 6 rebounds.

For the Hawks, Horford finishes with a super quiet 16, 12, 3 and 2.
Mo Evans lead the Hawks scoring with 20, and Crawford ended up with 18 and 6 assists off the bench.

Overall, a very solid win for the 'Cats, who lead from start to finish. Their 41st win of the season ensures that for the first time in franchise history, they won't have a loosing record.

Peace, Hursty.

I Hate Duke

2010-03-30T02:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I'm about to say this but..
... they deserve to win the NCAA Championship this year. Best team still remaining.

sigh..

FIN...

2010-03-29T20:48:00.001-07:00

Brackets are for suckaz. I'm glad I finally realized this over the past two weeks of my life. That and the fact that ninjas are blowing up my direct line trying to find out when my dues will be paid(Kansas go f&ck yourselves).I would choose this time to bash my "champion" pick, Syracuse, but I won't. Butler came to play and they are looking DAMN good right now. Honestly, I have only seen a little bit of them here and there because their games are always on when I'm chillin at my workplace but from what I've seen, Michigan State better be ready for a war. Gordon "G-time" Hayward and his bulldogs are ready to sink their collective teeths into this championship and they are my pick to lose it all in the championship to West Virginia.

Remember when I said in my tournament preview that I would explain later on why I like West Virginia? I think this is the perfect time to explain these things. West Virginia is the only team that hasn't dissapointed me and I expected them to go the the Final Four from the get go. I informed all of the homeboys and girls that if UK ever played WV, they would lose. West Virginia just reminds me of a better version of Misssissippi State. They are so balanced from the 1 spot all the way to the 5. Everyone knows about Butler and what he can do but the rest of squad shares equal success and they are clicking on all cylinders without their starting PG. Really can't believe Duke is still in this thing because I expected them to choke like they do every single year. I blame Nolan Smith for proving me wrong. This tourney has been one of the most flippiest shits I've ever witnessed. Wouldn't be suprised to see Butler win it all or Michigan State. I just truly believe that the team that comes victorious out of the Duke/West Virginia game will be our new champs. But who knows what will happen with alll the f*ckery that has taken place these last 3 weeks. I just pray to God that Gus Johnson is announcing one of the games.....

Man just wanted to drop by a little quickie(pause) for yall. I'm out....Im in need of some hot wangs..

The Big (Red) Surprise

2010-03-23T13:23:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Let's get this straight. Twelve seeds aren't supposed to beat five seeds.

Yeah, it happens sometimes. Cinderella stories, the NCAA tournament surprises, yeah, whatever, whoop-de-do, it happens. But they're not supposed to turn around and beat a four seed, right? Twelve seeds are usually all gone by now, even in a crazy tournament year like this, right?

But, there's one thing we're missing here: Ivy League schools aren't supposed to get to the Sweet Sixteen, right? I mean, a school that doesn't even give out athletic scholarships upsetting Temple and Wisconsin? I mean, we know that UCLA, UNC, UConn and Memphis were having NIT seasons, but an Ivy League school taking their place and winning? THAT'S a cinderella team. Especially when nobody in their conference has made it that far since 1979.

Cornell started the tournament 3-63 all-time against top 25 teams, and they beat two of them within three days. They're very efficient, they rarely turn the ball over (and they make the other team turn it over often). They play like, well a team that doesn't give athletic scholarships: unspectacular and technically sound. But they get the job done and they'll take you by surprise.

On Thursday, Ryan Wittman (who became the fifth player in conference history to score 2,000 points on Sunday) and the Big Red will take on John Wall and the Kentucky Wildcats. Yeah, it's a one seed against a twelfth seed. Yeah, Kentucky's favored by nine. Yeah, the talent is overwhelmingly on UK's side.

But everyone loves the underdog, right? Especially one's who have no NBA aspirations, playing for only their pride. But hey, Ivy League grads are probably more valuable to our society than one-and-dones, right?

--Moose

The NCAA Tournament So Far

2010-03-19T23:22:00.000-07:00

-Hursty-

I'm going to keep it short & sweet.
This is a run-down of the games so far:
All the no.1 seed's are through to the Round of 32 (doesn't exactly have a ring to it though, does it?)
All the no.2 seeds are through as well, but Villanova had a scare vs. Robert Morris, eventually scratching out a 73-70 win.
The 3 seeds are where things get interesting. Georgetwown went down to Ohio (not Ohio State) by a massive 14 points, disappointing for the Hoyas and Greg Munroe.

New Mexico got a run for their money, in a tight win over Montana 62-57, and this game was a battle, guys giving hard fouls from the opening possession, until N.M pulled it out with FT's.

For me personally, the biggest suprise of the Tourney this year came with AJ Ogilvy's No. 4 seed Vanderbilt going down to Murray State on a buzzer-beater 66 - 65. Vanderbilt never looked dominant, or even in control of the game. Just letting the underdog hang around way too long. I guess that's the danger of a "one and done" competition, a bad game and you're out, no second chances.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdiUoY6iz6I

Wisconsin & Wofford had the lowest scoring game of the Tournament this year in Wisconsin's 53-49 win.

No-one really expects the seeds 5-10 to go deep in the Tournament this year, but my personal suprise squad will by Texas A&M, led by Dash Harris. They just play well together, very good chemistry.

Peace, I'm out.
Hursty.

Last second ramblings, the story of my lfie

2010-03-17T20:56:00.000-07:00

I told you guys about the life of a blogger and how I always fugg around with deadlines. When I say I'm going to drop something tomorrow, what I really mean is that it will be out at least int he next week. I'm the definition of a true procrastinator and I can't help it. I'll have to change this as I go to Mississippi State or Ole Miss next year but for right now I'll enjoy being dubbed the lazy bastard that still gets by at life with ease.

Anyways, I'm on to business. It's March Madness suckaz!!! Just saw on nahright.com where rapper big pooh(member of one of my favorite rap groups, little brother) did a little article for slamonline about march madness and what not. I'll check it out as soon as I'm done with my little analysis of who is going to be rocking the trophy come April. We can all be honest with ourselves and say that this is the year where anyone and I mean ANYONE can win the title. Kansas has been number one most of the year but they are not that dominant in my eyes and they could be bounced by the sweet sixteen. But that goes for all the other teams in the field of 64 as well. Kentucky, Syracuse, Ohio State, West Virginia, Duke, and Villanova all seem like title contenders in their own right but none of them get my full co-sign as champion. My bracket is pretty predictable but I will explain as I go along. First lets hit up my sweet sixteen picks.

Sweet Sixteen

Kansas

This has to be the deepest team in the tourney right now. With Sherron Collins and Cole Aldrich being one the best inside/outside combos in the nation, it is hard to go against these guys when both of them are on their game. Throw in the Morris brothers with the hustle and grit, morningstar and reed with the 3 balls, and a freshman that I haven't been hearing enough of, Xavier Henry, and you have a team that is ready to make a deep run in the tourney.

Maryland

That Vasquez guy. That boy good! Honestly, I think Maryland can get by New Mexico State and Michigan State as long as Vasquez keeps his head on straight and leads the team in the right direction. Maryland is my sleeper pick for the sweet sixteen and I love watching them play. They are exciting, they play defense(sometimes), and they just never give up. Watch out for these guys.

Due to the fact that I'm on my homeboys laptop and his parents are ready for me to leave his house, I will just make key words on the rest of the teams that are in the sweet sixteen and out.....on to the rest of the sixteeen!!!!

Tennennesee

Chism. Hopson. If they are not playin up to task, UT won't be doing much of anything. Might be a repeat of when they played UK.

Georgetown

They are really dangerous when Monroe plays like a beast.

Ohio State

Mr. Triple Tandem Evan Turner ain't going bruh. POY #fuggyouropinion

Kentucky

Wall. Cousins. Bledsoe. Patterson...nuff said

Temple

DARKHOUSE!!!!!!!!!

Washington

Isiah 2.0 really plays like THE Isiah Thomas. Look for him, polished senior Quicny Pondexter, and company to make a little noise.

West Virginia

More about these guys later......

Duke

They get in by name alone

Texas A and M

Villanova

Scottie ain't goin

Syracuse

Second most balanced team after Kansas

UTEP

I know nothing of these dudes except that they have the nations leading scorer.

Pittsburgh

They are always the team with the most gangsta to me. I don't know why.

Kansas State

Frank Martin told me to put them in or else. What the heck was I supposed to do????

Elite eight

Syracuse, Pittsburgh, Villanove, Texas A and M, Kentucky, West Virginia, Kansas, Ohio State

Final Four

Villanova, Syracuse, West Virginia, Kansas

Championship Round

Syracuse vs. Kansas

For some odd reason I believe it will be raining orange in the championship game. You have the two most well rounded teams in the nation squaring off against each other in what will be a very fair matchup. Kansas has the advantage when it comes to leadership and overall experience in the tourney but Syracuse is soooo athletic and long. If Onawaku(i know I butchered his name) is at 100 percent, this game is the Orange's no doubt. I still believe, however, Cuse can win without him. Wesley Johnson, Scoop Jardine, Andy Rountins, and Rick Jackson can handle the load for them while he is away.

I have to go know seeing that my friends dad just cursed me out. I guess I ate too many honeybuns or something. I will discuss West Virginia in detail the more they win in the tourney. I want you guys to check them out a couple of games first. They really might make me change my mind about who wins the championship. But we will discuss that another time.

WE 'BOUT TO GO GLOBAL

2010-03-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

Alright, i just wanted to let everybody know that I made a Twitter page and a Facebook fan page for 'Bachi. If we really are serious about expanding, we gotta take advantage of any big-time outlet we have available. Here's the link to the Twitter page and the Facebook fan page. Peace fam!

I'm out...

the song below (which is one of my all-time favorite songs) pretty much explains everything...

Drop that Sh%t Vontae!

2010-03-13T20:05:00.001-08:00

Soooooo, my college and final four predictions will be hitting the scene tomorrow. I want to wait until the brackets hit so I can do some of my vontology for the masses. I'm pretty sure you will want to go with my choices so just sit back and wait for that time. It will drop sometime tomorrow.......hopefully. You know how bloggers are with release dates. Forgive me in advance family. Oh yeah my picture pretty much says it all.

Double Pene...........nevermind on to happier thoughts

2010-03-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

Daddy's home once again. I know yall didn't miss me but hey it's all good in the neighborhood. Good to see that the site is making a comeback and I must say I am thankful to work with a group of bloggers that share's my same passion for the game of basketball. I haven't really been checkin out that many games lately mainly due to something called Senior Project aka the most useless class that any student could ever have but somehow the principal thinks that it prepares us for college when all it is is busy work that test your patience and makes you sometimes want to drive your car into your garage and let down the door and keep the car running. Yeah it's that pointless. Every night that I have planned to watch some games, Senior Project comes and tells me I have a portfolio due this friday that is 60% of my ENTIRE grade. So, either I plan on spending time with it, or I can just stay at moms house next year and watch all the NBA I want when I'm not able to graduate. Pretty sure most of you guys don't have a senior project and if you do, it's not the f*ckery that I deal with on a daily basis. All I can look foward to everyday is Holly's Post up and even some days at school I'm unable to look at it. No need to worry, however, because I will be through with all things senior project after this friday. Just in time for Selection Sunday too. Expect a nice little spoiler from me about who I belive is going to bring the trophy home (hint: it rhymes with orange juice).

Big shoutout to Matt Barnes. He would have totally made me swallow that gum. Can't really say anything negative because his team came out with the W and my lakers are not looking like the best team in the west. I've said for the longest that Denver is the best bet to make it to the Finals if LA and I'm sticking by that. I wouldn't be suprised if they beat LA in 6 games. We all know Kobe will get his troops back in order and they will be ready come playoff time. But a quick message to Kobe from me, stop with all the bullsh*t and let's win some games. 2 game losing streak almost made me punch my TV. The last loss I had to be tranqulizied by moms. Get it together.

Russel Westbrook, Russel Westbrook, Russel Westbrook, Russel Westbroook. You get the point, homie is straight BALLIN. I love how the PG posistion is going to be held down for years to come. Westbrook, Rose, Reke, BJ, Dwill, and Paul are going to hold it down. and I'm sorry Darren Collison for everything I said.......

Dang, Senior Project is bothering me AGAIN. I'll hit you guys up tomorrow. I'm gone back to workin in the lab.

Worst. Sports. Reporting. Ever.

2010-03-08T02:24:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Plastic Beach

2010-03-06T05:29:00.000-08:00

You mad?

98-83!

Previous to this game, things fell apart on us Chinua Achebe style. We were playing like shit. After what we did last night though, i have faith we will make the playoffs. Combined with the Bulls inexperience, the Bucks failure to be consistent, and the Heat's dependence on Wade, i see us pushing one of them out of the playoffs. It will be hard(**thats what she said**) but i think it will happen.

That's about all i have to say....

Prioritising Horribly

2010-03-02T20:36:00.000-08:00

This was something I found that really made me think.
What are your priorities in life? What matters to you? To our generation? To our future?

What's Going On?

2010-02-28T16:38:00.000-08:00

A Moose Track

"Mother, mother
There's too many of you crying
Brother, brother, brother
There's far too many of you dying
You know we've got to find a way
To bring some lovin' here today"

An NBA season can do a lot to a team. Sometimes it takes a year for the players to jell, to get used to one another, and to perform well. Sometimes a team starts out strong, builds steam, and comes into the playoffs looking for blood. And, sometimes a team starts out strong, and then tapers off . . . like the 2009-10 Boston Celtics.

Before the all-star break, the Celtics were playing their worst basketball of the season. From January 11 to all-star weekend, they went 6-9, dropping games to Atlanta (2), LAL, New Orleans, Orlando (2), Dallas, Detroit and the LAC. The short break was going to be their resting time; they were going to come back and take the league by storm.

And they did, for a second there. They came back to face a west-coast trip with match-ups against Denver, Portland, Los Angeles and Sacramento, going 3-1. Ray Allen was shooting, something that he hadn't done since the middle of the season last year. Kevin Garnett was looking like KG, the first time he had played like he can since the surgery.

And then they came back home, beating the Knicks 110-106. On the surface, this looks fine. But the Celtics, who have prided themselves as a defense-minded team for the better part of three years now, looked like they just didn't give a rip about giving up buckets. The next two games the Celtics were matched up against the top and the bottom: The Cavaliers and the Nets.

Boston led for most of the matchup, and suddenly, in the middle of the fourth quarter, something changed (I didn't watch it because a power outage in Massachusetts took out my TV in the middle of the 4th. Huge storm with a ton of damage took us down, bunch of rain, most people didn't have power until yesterday). The Celtics blew the lead, eventually losing by 20 to the best team in the league. A loss is understandable, but a blown lead late in the game is inexcusable. It shows that they can't handle any of the elite teams in one game, much less a seven game series.

On Saturday, the Celtics played the Nets at 1 o'clock. I didn't even consider watching it. I was hanging out with my friends during the game, I didn't even see a point in watching it. When I got home, my mom informed me that the C's had lost to the Nets. I was more confused than Wally Szczerbiak in a half-court trap. The Celtics are considered to be title candidates, and even my Mom knows that the Nets suck. It was their sixth win of the year. Their sixth.

But then I looked at the box score, and three things stood out. The Nets were 34-41 from the charity stripe. 34-41. 34-41. The Celtics were 9-11. The Nets shot 44.4% from the field. Boston shot 50% and still lost. The Nets went 6-13 from downtown, where the Celtics went 3-19. There are only a few justifiable reasons for this loss.

The Celtics aren't playing defense like they used to. Yes, Pierce was out for these last two games, but this isn't just about those last two games. The Celtics have lost something. The defense isn't there. Nobody should let the New Jersey Nets take 41 free throws. Nobody. Our defense is gone.

The other thing. Rasheed Wallace needs to play like he should. He shouldn't be taking five or six threes a night. He needs to get on the block, post up and do what he does best. His leadership should be a big part of the team, and instead he just gains us four or five bricks from long a night.

We needed to do something at the trade deadline. So we got Nate Robinson. Did it improve us all that much? We aren't sure. But all this failure from such a talented team begs one question: What's going on?

--Moose

Remember Way Back When?

2010-02-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

Remember when Jerry Stackhouse was averaging 30ppg in Detroit?
When Rasheed Wallace got 41 Technical Fouls in 2001?
When LeBron was just a kid, not all bitter at the game?
When Kevin Garnett was a perennial MVP candidate?
When Greg Oden dominated all things, and everything?
When Jermaine O'Neal would have his way with anyone he wanted in the post?

Jordan's fading pivot to (seemingly) win the All-Star Game for the East in 2003?
The 2008 Giants?
The 2009 Steelers?
2010 Ole Miss Football team?
Joe Johnson as a Celtic?
Tayshaun playing in like, 400 straight games?
Hakeem as a Raptor?
Before Birthay Sex, and you had to ask 21 Questions?
Before New Orleans was flooded and Kanye spoke his mind. Truly.
The Jay-Z vs. Nas BEEF

Malace at the Palace
Ron Artest as a King?
Eminem before The Eminem Show
Tiger Woods as a loving, faithful father
Lady GaGa's first No. 1 single (name it in the comments)
That chick who sang the "right round" part in Timbaland's version? Yeh, that was Ke$ha

Remember where you were when Michael Jackson's death was filtering through?
What about the Twin Towers? (I was getting ready to go to school)

The Blackstar Album?
Before the Kardashians?
Run It - Chris Brown?
Confessions?
Breathe - Fabolous
Your first crush? Remember, that girl you couldn't ever speak to because you would say something really, really stupid by accident? Mhmm. Word vomit man.
When TMZ was about as well-known as UFC

The line "It's ok to lose your pride over someone you love, but don't lose someone you love, over your pride"
Shaq destroying fools in 04/5 with Wade, and his fall-off in the space of two years?
The Bulls of 2009 being almost the exact same team as they were in 06/7?
'Melo with braids? ... actually, everyone with braids?
Drew Gooden's ducktail soulpatch?
Mike Redd - All-Star
Carlos Boozer - Gold Medalist

Before ball was life, and life was ball?

When Hibachi 2.0 dominated the blogging world and brought the internet to it's knees? Yeah. This is just a reminder. We run this shit.

Did somebody call for an auction?!

2010-02-24T17:13:00.001-08:00

While some really terrible things have happened in my life, none are more terrible than what i have recently experienced. While i am in some emotional pain right now, i feel as though what has happened could not have been stopped and i need to keep on living my life. It will never be the same, but it doesnt have to. That being said....

Whats up America! Im just trying to chill now and think, and i figured i might as well collect some of my thoughts on certain 'subjects on interest' to all of us, or at least me.

I will start where the last piece (by Daddy 'bachi himself DP left off (irony of DP being a father? Someone with the intials of the way you become a father ( or dont become a father depending on the hole you chose) is something i didnt forsee until after i typed it). Enough of the tanget, i am talking about this blog. Shit is happening. We all have our own personal situations going on. The team here knows about mine, everyone knows DP and Hursty are both involved/getting involved with college shit. The rest of the group all have their own things, which i cannot speak to since i dont know the full story/facts behind what they do outside the computer. But when it comes down to it, we are all a bunch of unmotivated, semi-lazy, mo-fos with priorities that differ from the improvement of this blog or higher thinking society (those two go hand in hand, in case you forgot, in which case you arent a member of the later).

In my opinion, we are starting to try the tricks couples use to restore relationships. Have a baby/get new blood in the mix. Move into a new house. Not saying Collin and a domain name arent good ideas, but if we are using them to try and save a site it is most likely going to fail once it doesnt live up to our expectations. If we are really going to get this site 'back' to what it once was, we need to forget what it was and try and recarve it/get re-energized about writting for it. Living in memories about how great our shit once was isnt going to get us anywhere other than a bloggers retirement home, where we will eat soft food and play bingo. We just need to get back to promoting our stuff, and making stuff to promote. It will be a cycle the way i see it. And we need to get back on SLAM and comment (like DP already said) and also go out into the rest of the cyber world and bump our shit too. This doesnt mean go on a site you have no interest in and start trolling for attention, but just find some stuff you already are on/that interests you and find ways to advertize it their. Put it in your signature, link it to your domain name; get people to look at it by typing insightful comments that will make people see we know what the fuck we are talking about. If we can reconstruct rather than move on, i think this site can prosper and turn into something bigger. We shall see.

Gerald Wallace didnt win the dunk contest but so what. We are on pace to have the best year in our franchise history, and to make the playoffs. To sum up the season, we won the season series vs the best team in the NBA (the Cavs) and lost the season series to the worst team in the NBA (the Nets). We are the squad that leaves a lot of people scratching their heads, but i just am loving what is going on; we are a decent NBA team now with some respect from the mainstream media. Maybe next year we will get a game on national tv. Probably not, but one can dream.

Seeing us as a place where people want to come is also impressing me. Names of recently bought out guys like Larry Hughes, Kenny Thomas, and Mike James among others as guys that WANT to be Charlotte Bobcats is just really something i can appreciate. People are starting to see that Charlotte is where you can play basketball and be yourself, just as long as you do it 'the right way'. Look for instance at Tyrus Thomas, whose numbers have skyrocketed since getting traded, every catogoery is significantly higher. Stephen Jackson's stock has also gone up since comming arriving in the Queen City. For the first time in his career, Jackson is getting POSTIVE media attention. Just amazing.

Tracy McGrady is back.It is nice to see Tracy getting minutes. After the Rockets signed Ariza, i pretty much knew the McGrady era in Houston had come to a close. Then the Rockets did him dirty and didnt let him play. I will let RV give us the 411 on what really happened and what the build up was behind everything, but for the end T-Mac's stint in Houston he was not treated well.

I got homework to do. I havent been at school for almost a week. So on that note, Cat out.

R.I.P.?????

2010-02-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

I'm feelin really inspired right now to do this. I wasn't going to do another blog post for a minute but as I speak I'm watching my lakers do a pretty damn good job of hanging with the celtics without Kobe. Sure, I knew that they were going to put up a fight from the get go, but I love the energy they are playing with and how players who usually don't do much are stepping it up big time. I'm especially amazed at how Ron artest is just schooling Pierce on the lower block. Artest should have been playing like this all along and he looks the guy that La traded Ariza for. Perkins, eat your breakfast!!!!! Yeah I know that Ray made Shannon eat his but I really don't care for that ish. I just have a hatred for Perkins I can't describe. Maybe because he always looks like someone just robbed him at a liquor store or something. I don't know. LA probably won't win if they don't give Pau and Drew the ball more but it's cool. I'm just glad that LA is actually an alright team without Kobe and that some people still deserve their contracts(Sasha, you are STILL not included). I digress.

What I came to vent about is the life of this site. I probably won't even get any comments off this but this place is D.E.A.D. This wasn't my hopes for the new year but hey you can't plan things like this from happening. The song up top I got from Chucky Ham pretty much describes what is going to become of this site. It might actually be time to dead this site and start a new one. One where we can actually blog weekly and get more people reading our material. I sent an email out earlier talking about this and Hurst suggest we go with getting a dot com site. What you guys thinking? I think it's a great idea and if we actually start commenting on Slamonline more I think we can start a following like we did with hibachi. I love this site dearly and I've done some great ish on here as well as the rest of you guys but I know we can go to bigger and better things with a brand new site. Maybe even get some moola. But that's if you guys are with the plan. Hit me back up in the comment section and tell me how you feelin. play wit it.

Good-Bye, Bill Walker

2010-02-18T14:55:00.000-08:00

It was fun while it lasted. I wish you luck in your career, and I hope you get some burn in New York, or anywhere, really. Sorry for leaving. Eddie, it was great having you here, too. J.R.....hmmm. Good luck, I guess.

--Moose

David Lee v.s. Al Horford

2010-01-29T14:46:00.000-08:00

Al Horford: 13.6 PPG, 9.80 RPG, 2.2 APG

David Lee: 19.6 PPG, 11.60 RPG, 3.4 APG

Somebody PLEASE tell me what the NBA head coaches were thinking.

--Moose

From the ground up...

2010-01-18T14:53:00.000-08:00

So has anyone noticed the Memphis Grizzlies this year? Maybe you haven't because you're so accustomed to looking for them at the bottom of the standings. This year though, they are actually 3 games above .500, and are playing some great basketball as of late. Due to their massive variety of talent, I knew that it was only a matter of time before they were challenging for a playoff spot, but I definitely didn't think that it would be going this well, this quickly.

Memphis is one of those teams that doesn't have a MVP-type player, or even a definite leader, (there is no Kobe, LeBron, or D-Wade on their team) but what they do have is a very talented group of players who can beat you in multiple ways.

~Rudy Gay is without a doubt one of the most underrated players in the league today. Most people only see his inhuman athletic ability by his spectacular dunks, but he is actually a very well-rounded player. He can get into the lane almost at will, and has the ability to draw fouls. He is also a very capable passer, and solid rebounder. I think the most underrated part of his game however, is his jump-shooting ability. When people watch highlights of him, his dunks and drives to the hoop are the only thing people notice, but he is actually a very dependable shooter, and most of his points actually come off of jumpshots. His 20.1 points is second on the team, and his 6.1 rebounds rank third on the team. Don't think he is just an offensive player though, he also gets 1.51 steals, and 0.86 blocks per contest. As I said, this team doesn't really have a go-to player, but Rudy is probably the closest thing this team has to a leader.

~Zach Randolph is a double-double machine. Since he played in Portland for the earlier part of his career, I am very familiar with him. Personally, I am not a fan of him, he is actually one of my least favorite players. I think he has a very bad attitude, and I didn't even like him when he was playing for my favorite team. He also has very poor shot selection. Personal matters aside, there is no doubt that he puts up numbers. No matter where he has played, whether it's been Portland, Los Angeles, New York, or Memphis, he has always been one of the most consistent players in the league. He manages to get 20 points and 10 rebounds EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. When I say every single night, I literally mean EVERY NIGHT. He always finds some way to get a double-double, no matter what the circumstances are. He is averaging 20.5 points, and 11.5 rebounds this season; which are both team-highs. He is also shooting 50% from the field, and 81% from the foul line; which is very impressive, especially for a Power forward. Despite all the negative aspects of Randolph's game, you can't argue with numbers like that.

~O.J. Mayo, while also being one of my least favorite players, is a player any team would like to have on their roster. He still struggles with his shot selection, at times, but that will get better as he matures. He's not really a defensive player, not a great rebounder, or even a great passer, but he can score whenever he wants. He is averaging 18.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists this season. When the Grizzlies absolutely need a bucket, O.J. will most likely be the one getting the ball, and he can usually make the shot, no matter how much defense is applied to him.

~Marc Gasol has turned into a very dependable post player. He doesn't get the same acclaim as his older brother, and has never really been taken seriously, but he is actually putting up near-All-Star numbers this season. He had a very solid rookie season, and people thought that he might be a pretty average player, but he put in a lot of work this offseason, and came back this year to prove he was way above average. He is putting up 14.7 points this season on 61% feild goal shooting, and is a solid free-throw shooter for a 7-footer shooting 66%. He has also proved that he can be a great rebounder and defensive player by grabbing 9.7 boards, and 1.5 blocks a game. Since Zach Randolph is more of a mid-range/perimeter player, most people thought that left the Grizz without a low-post presence, but Marc has actually developed a very nice low-post game. I wouldn't be at all surprised if we see him in the All-Star game in the next couple of years.

~Mike Conley has had a lot of doubters and haters since he came into the league, but the Grizzlies know how good he really is, and have put all their trust in him to be their point guard of the future. They proved this when Allen Iverson came in at the beginning of the season. Iverson was expected to come in and be the starting point guard, but Conley ended up not only keeping his starting position, but also playing more minutes. Although his averages of 10.3 points, and 4.9 assists don't seem too impressive, that is exactly what the Grizz want him to do, and they couldn't be more satisfied with him.

One Knock on the Grizzlies is their lack of a bench. Outside of rookie Sam Young (8.1 points), the next highest scoring average by a bench player is Marcus Williams with 3.9. Their bench isn't exactly the best in the league, but coach Hollins always finds a way to get a good rotation out there on every possession. They also have a lot of young talent, who haven't even come close to realizing their potential yet (Hasheem Thabeet, Lester Hudson, Sam Young, DaMarre Carroll).

The Grizzlies have come a long way in a short time. The organization has been at an all-time low, and are finally starting to have hope for the future by their recent success. The bottom of the Western Conference is stacked as usual, and the Grizzlies might not even make the playoffs (or might just be in 7th or 8th), but if one thing is for certain, it's that you definitely can't take this team for granted.

I'm out....

(and be sure to check out Hurty's post right beneath this one)

Straight Fire

2010-01-17T18:50:00.000-08:00

Hursty here,
It's been, oh a good few months since I posted here.

For that, I apologise sincerely. Hope you guys understand.

Anyways, to get you guys up to speed on me (otherise scroll down 2 paragraphs) - I've finished High School. Got a rank of 85.7 out of a possible 99.95, which means I'm in the top 15% of the country.

Probably attending the University of New South Wales and doing Exercise Physiology. That's the plan anyways.

I'm not going to use a classy change of conversation here, I'll just simply say that sports both within the USA and outside of it are a fu*king mess. '

NBA:

The NBA is in turmoil, regardless of whatever spin Commish Stern tries to put on it. The League is still loosing money and as many stars are injured or underperforming this year as I've seen in a long, long time.

Just quickly -

Bryant - injured

Redd - injured

Tony Parker - underperforming

Josh Howard - injured, underperforming

Manu Ginobili - recovering from injury

Arenas - um, yeh

Deron Williams - inconsistent

Chris Paul - underperforming (by his super high standards)

Pau Gasol - injured

The list goes on, it's kinda ridiculous. Reminds me of the '07 season, but worse.

I mean, these guys are stars - you can't argue that. Sure, some are more valuable to the League than others, but having a group of star-calibre + type guys all riding the pine for extended periods, that just isn't right.
Then you've still got Arenas playing the joker.

NFL

I'm going to look ahead to the Superbowl. One of the biggest annual sporting events in the world, drawing in over 225 million viewers globally, the Superbowl IS America. And as such, is reflective of it. Financial crisis and all. The highest paying commercial this year is expected to be 2.8 million $ U.S. Last year it was over $3million. Yeh, it's still a lot of money, but in comparison to years past, it's a significant drop.

In other, brighter news;

Stephen Jackson - Welcome to the VIP Lounge, you now have an access all-areas pass.

Aaron Brooks - you too. Well done young sir.

Brett Favre - how do you do it? I'm not even mad at you, I'm just impressed at this point.

Tony Romo - still choking. The NFL will now return you to your regular programming. That was entertaining. For a week.

University of Virginia Basketball - 3-0 in ACC play. I like Landesberg a lot, he can play.

Duke - I hate you. Like everyone else. That said though, the Plumlee brothers are intriguing. Like semi-skilled Collins twins, but better. Not at the Lopez level, but they have potential.

Charles Hamilton & Jay Electronica - Om nom nom nom nom nom. (Pause)

Texts From Last Night - 'Nuff said.

In world sports, Australia is once again dominating Cricket after a 2nd test scare by Pakistan.
The Australian Open is just 'round the corner for Tennis.

In rugby, guys aren't holding to their contracts, snorting cocaine and getting into fights regularly, it's pretty much a joke and a blight upon society the way they conduct themselves at times.

Just quickly - Petanque is the greatest sport of ALL-TIME! (Apart from darts, that sh*t is legendary)

And now I'm leaving you with some Slaughterhouse, "Fightclub"

And Immortal Technique, "Point Of No Return"

Peace

Aaron Brooks scores 14 in 4th on his way to 43

2010-01-14T09:34:00.000-08:00

Sweet layup at the end!

Free Gilbert Arenas, shit that's what I heard at DP house

2010-01-09T20:34:00.000-08:00

Ayyyyyy. My people how's it going? I'm doing good like the clipse song right about now. I'm going to get straight to the point and say what I feel about the Gilbert situation. Two words: Free Gilbert. I'm biased about the whole ordeal so you can hate me for that or not. He deserves suspension but I still don't like the word "indefintely". Being that I got the inspiration for this site from mr. hibachi himself, I want to be on his side. People say he went too far on his twitter but honestly that shit was funny as hell to me. Every story that he was telling I showed my teammates and we cracked up with glee. It was Gil being Gil and I loved that ish. Maybe he went TOO far with all the jokes but he is still my boy and I'm repping the hibachi till the day I'm gone from this wretched earth. Hopefully in the next couple of weeks they will have the "free gilbert" shirts on the net.

Couple of my thoughts right now.

-Gil's teammates that were with him in that pic before the game against SA shouldn't be fined. Just fine gil and call it a day. and y'all can't tell me that picture wasn't funny!

-John Wall is better than half the nba point guards in the L right now. straight up.

-It's time for Fisher to pack his fuggin bags and leave my team. Farmar too. Can't wait for CP3 in 2012.

-Charles Barkley on SNL tonight. I have a feeling this could go really well or michael jackson bad.

-Okay I've been thinking about this for about a month but for all of you who have heard the young money song, "bedrock", when gudda gudda says, "I got her n%gga, grocery bags" wtf does that mean? I talking about the punch line "grocery bags". maybe BET, moose, or hurst can help me on this one.

-I need to contact Vinny del negro and tell him we have an opening for a coaching position with the Upward program at the YMCA.

-I don't like Artest at all. Ariza needs to come back before the end of february.

-Does Brandon Jennings get a cover for scoring 55 points or the rest of his up and down rookie season? I think Reke should get one before BJ.

-It's 18 degrees......in MISSISSIPPI. again I say IN MISSISSIPPI. I feel like i'm in moose's neck of the woods. I had to ride the bus yesterday because my car door was frozen shut. fml I know.

I'm about to check out big chuck so I'll check back in next week with you fools. Whiie you're hear peep the joints I always leave for ya. I never steer you wrong.
play wit it.

The Prototypical Four-man

2010-01-04T13:53:00.000-08:00

A Moose Track

I'm sick of bonafide players cruising under the radar because they're toiling away on teams out of the playoff hunt. If you don't win, you don't get credit for any amount of numbers you're putting up. Lopez and Harris are both all-star threats on the 3-30 Nets. Love is averaging a triple-double on the seven win Wolves, if anyone cares. Andre Iguodala is throwing up 19-6-5 nightly for the Sixers, who have collected a dismal 10 victories this year. If you don't win, you don't get attention.

The same goes for up-and-comers; not just trapped superstars. Thaddeus Young for Philly. Eric Gordon for the LA Clippers. Anthony Randolph for Nellie's Warriors. But, on par with all in skill and production but below in exposure, Jason Thompson is overshadowed even in his own city (by rookie phenom Tyreke Evans).

Only two sophomores average more rebounds per-game (Marc Gasol, 10.0, and Brook Lopez, 9.7) than Thompson (9.2). His scoring is consistently among the leaders of his team (14.2). He picks up an adequate amount of assists for a power forward (2.1). He averages enough blocks (.9) and steals (.6) to be considered a tough matchup on D.

Thompson's build is perfect for his position. Standing 6-11 and weighing in at 250 pounds, he is on the larger side of his position. He runs the floor very well for a player his size, allowing his athleticism to shine through in transition and in the halfcourt game as well. He possesses world-class footwork, allowing him to shake defenders and take high-percentage shots. He's close to a sure two, with his percentage a hair under 50% (.496).

His consistency is underrated. As the starting power forward in just his second year on the Kings, the 23 year-old has started all 33 games so far, while averaging big minutes for a player in his situation (35.3 per). He has banged out 12 double-doubles this year, good for 21 in the league, one spot ahead of, ahem, LeBron James. His efficiency rating is high (+18.67), and he has developed into a large part of Sacramento's game.

Too bad he's stuck out there.

--Moose

2-0-1-0

2010-01-02T20:09:00.000-08:00

Happy new years my brothers and sisters!!!! It's been a while and with good reason. I've been trying to clear my head and just chill these past two weeks and my reality is now just setting in. I have one more semester left in my high school career and then I'm gone like the dusty wind. My case of senioritis has gone from bad to severe. I don't even want to think about school right now and everyday I wake up it pains me. But I do have one plus that makes everything alright for the new year: your boy has a brand new car. Well....not brand new but it still is a chick magnet, hoe scooper, boopper topper, or whatever the hell you want to call it. 92 white cadillac deville in decent shape. I like to call it mr. wide body because I swear the back seat area is like a master bedroom. Ahhhhhhhh, I think you guys think where I'm going with this one.

With the new year comes resolutions and I say fugg them. I had a couple of resolutions last year but I broke them within 30 minutes of proclaiming them. I think I'm going to stick to goals from now on and I'd like to share with you guys my top goals for this year.

1.Go to college with a nice full paid scholarship
2.Rack up at least 10-15 chicks in my car.
3.Meet Obama in DC this summer
4.Actually meet the word called organization
5.Spread more love and not hate
6.Get my shoe and fitted hat collection up
7.Fly to the moon at least a couple of times
8.Tell the girl of my dreams that she should dumb her old man and get with a real dude
9.Make bread
10.Make a girl's bedrock
11.Post up on hibachi and slam daily.

That's just a few because my list will go on for days if I continue. I pray that all of you guys are successful this year and that you do everything to your full capacity. Look to see me on here more often this year than the past couple years of this blog. I'll catch you guys later on this week.

Much love,
DP aka play wit it

had to hit moose with some new hamilton. play wit it.

Decade in Review....Part 1

2009-12-31T20:17:00.000-08:00

So, Everybody's talking about the best, and worst of the decade, and I thought I would come out with the Hibachi 2.0 Edition. This is just Part 1, part 2 will be coming soon...

THE BEST

PLAYERS: (and because we're talking about the whole decade, there's no Chris Paul, LeBron, D-Wade, B-Roy, Dwight Howard, or any of the other good young players on this list. They all didn't come in until about halfway through the decade, so It's hard to put them on the All-decade team. If I were making a team for the last 5 years, they would definitely be on it)

1. Kobe Bryant

- The best player in the game today. He led his team to the Playoffs 9 times (and to the Finals 5 times), won 4 championships, a gold medal, while winning an MVP award, scoring titles, and numerous all-star appearances. He's undoubtedly the best player of the decade.

2. Tim Duncan

-He may not have the same flair that Kobe has, but he has become a symbol of consistency and hard work over the course of the decade. aside from his double-double average, he has also won an MVP award, and started in the All-Star game just about every year. He led the Spurs to the playoffs every single year this decade, and led them to the finals 4 times. The Spurs won 3 championships, and Timmy won Finals MVP twice.

3. Shaquille O'Neal

-Shaq is one of the 5 most dominant players of all time. Aside from his 4 championships (3 with Lakers, 1 with Heat), he also has an MVP award, 9 All-star selections, and 2 scoring titles. He isn't nearly as dominant as he used to be due to his age, but He still deserves to be on this list.

4. Kevin Garnett

- He has been to the playoffs 6 times this decade (technically 7, but he didn't play last year), and finally won his first championship two years ago. He has won the MVP award, a gold medal, an All-Star MVP, and a Defensive Player of the year award. He has also been named to every All-star game this decade. He personifies Intensity, heart, and pure love for the game. He is an all-around player who can score, rebound, pass, and dominate at the defensive end, and is a true leader. He isn't done winning championships either....

5. Allen Iverson

-A.I. does not have a championship, but he has made the playoffs 7 times this decade, and made the Finals once. He has 3 scoring titles, 1 MVP, 2 All-Star MVPs. His legacy has taken a dip the past few seasons, but he is still without question one of the players who defined this decade.

6. Steve Nash

- He won two MVP's, a few assist titles, all-star appearances, and is still the best point guard in the league today. He hasn't won a ring, or even made it to the Finals, but he is the prime

example for how to run an offense, and does way more than his impressive stats indicate.

7. Jason Kidd

-Jason Kidd is the Ultimate point guard. Unimaginable passing ability, shooting stroke, has a great nose for the ball, and displays perfect leadership and poise. He won multiple assist

and steal titles, and went to the Finals twice. He pretty much defines the phrase "triple-double"

8. Dirk Nowitzki

- Dirk doesn't get much praise or acclaim for all he does; probably because of his unique, unorthodox playing style; but when it comes to just straight putting up numbers, and producing

in the clutch, Dirk is one of the best. He is in the top 5 in scoring just about every season, has been selected to several all-star games, won an MVP award, and has transformed the Mavs

into a Western Conference heavyweight.

9. Paul Pierce

- He's not one of those players that dominated due to supreme quuickness or athleticism, his playing style is based on hard work, hustle, and a high basketball IQ. For most of the decade, he

was basically playing alone in Boston. He led the Celtics to the playoffs 4 times; almost singlehadedly. The Celtics then went two straight years without making the postseason, and

everyone was thinking that he would never win a championship. In 2008, he not only won a ring, but also got a Finals MVP trophy. He was in the top 10 in scoring in 7 consecutive seasons, and

has also been named to 7 All-star games.

10. Ray Allen

-He has made about 2,000 3-Pointers this decade, and has been in the top 10 in scoring just about every season. He doesn't have any MVPs, but he does have multiple All-star selections,

3-point titles, and a championship ring.

Honorable Mentions

- Chauncey Billups: 1 championship, Finals MVP, 4 All-star appearances, and helped turn Develop Detroit as a powerhouse.

- Richard Hamilton: He's always been one of those under-the-radar players, but he definitely deserves to be on this list. 1 championship, 3 All-star selections, and hasn't averaged less than 17.3 PPG since 2000.

- Tracy Mcgrady: Mcgrady SHOULD have been in the top 10, but because of his inabilty to get past the first round of the playoffs; and his health problems in the past few years; I had to leave him out. He has 7 All-Star appearances (6 All-Star starts), a scoring title, and All-NBA selections.

- Vince Carter: Just like His cousin Tracy Mcgrady, Vince SHOULD be in the top 10, but he has never been able to do anything in the playoffs. He has been near the top in scoring every year this decade, and seems to have no conscience when it comes to clutch situations. He has 7 All-star selections under his belt; 5 of them being starts; and despite the fact that people criticize

his shot selection, there is no doubt that Carter is one of the best players of all time.

- Tony Parker: No one ever really talks about Parker, but he does have 3 All-star selections. Tony was the starting point guard for the Spurs for 3 championships, and won the Finals MVP in

2007.

TEAMS

1. Lakers

- 4 NBA championships, 6 Conference Championships, 9 Playoff appearances, and a regular season record of 555-296 this decade.

2. Spurs

- 3 NBA championships, have made the playoffs every single year, and have won atleast 53 games in every season since 2000. Their overall regular season record this decade is 594-255.

3. Pistons

- They won the 2004 NBA championship, and for most of the decade have been the Best team in the Eastern Conference. Their record this decade is 508-334.

4. Dallas Mavericks

- They havn't won any championships, but have made it to the Finals. They've won atleast 51 games 9 consecutive seasons, and are on pace to do it again this year. Their record this decade

is 560-281.

5. Phoenix Suns

- They have no titles, or Finals apperances, but Steve Nash has turned the Suns into a Western Conference Power. Their record this decade is 517-311.

MY FAVORITE MOMENTS

There have been lots of unforgettable things this decade, and I can't remember them all, but these are the first 10 that come to mind. These are my top 10 favorite moments of the decade.

1. This isn't just my favorite moment of the decade, this is my favorite moment in NBA

history...

2. I remember watching this game live...

3. I get goosebumps just watching this. This definitely doesn't make me a Laker fan, but

I am a HUGE Derek Fisher fan...

4. Reggie Miller retires...

5. Robert Horry takes over the 4th quarter and overtime, and gets the game winner with 5.8 seconds left....

6.Tracy Mcgrady scores 13 points in the last 35 seconds. I remember watching this game live. I

still can't believe it happened. This was the most amazing thing I've ever seen....

7. "he just sucked the gravity right out of the building" - Well said, Marv Albert

8. Inspirational....

9. B-Roy....

10. Travis Outlaw hits the game winner that changed the Blazer's whole orginazation. from this game, they went on a 13 game win streak, and now, 2 years later, the blazers are contenders....

and I'm pretty sure no one else on Hibachi is going to agree with this, and your probably gonna blow me up in the comments, but I'm gonna say it anyway ---->Here's my pick for the best song of the decade (and best song of all time)....

I'm out.....see ya'll next year!

Official Re-Introduction...

2009-12-20T20:44:00.000-08:00

So I am officially the newest member of Hibachi, but I'm not exactly now to the site. I've been a huge Hibachi fan for about a year now, and have gotten to know the other Hibachi members pretty well (well kinda...) so everyone on the site, or has been a fan of the site already knows who I am (or you may know me from my other site Truly Hoops), but just in case you have no clue who I am, here's a quick introduction.....

I'm a 16 year-old Junior in High-School. I live in Oregon (I think I'm the only Hibachi member from the West Coast), I'm a diehard Boston Celtic/Portland Trail Blazer fan. Basketball is pretty much my life. I hope to become an NBA player someday, but am also pursuing a sports-writing career as well....

I want to think all the Hibachi members for bringing me on, and I want to let you all know that I'll post as often as I can, and as often as you need me to.

It's time to continue the Hibachi 2.0 takeover.....

I thought I'd end this post with some music....

I'm out....

De-jaun and Only...

2009-12-11T11:59:00.000-08:00

Intoducing: Collin

When people talk about the best rookies so far the season, Tyreke Evans and Brandon Jennings are probably the names most commonly mentioned, but Dejaun Blair is doing work behind the scenes that undoubtedly is worth some notice. The Spurs haven't really developed a spot in the rotation for him yet, and have been playing him pretty inconsistently thus far, but when he's gotten the nod from Gregg Poppovich, he's yet to disappoint.

The Other night against the Celtics, He put up 18 points (9-11 Field Goals), 2 blocks, and 11 rebounds (5 offensive) in just 22 minutes, and single-handedly kept the Spurs within reach during the Celtic's 4Th quarter lapse. The game before that against the 76'ers, he put up 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks in just 17 minutes. Although his averages of 6.5 points and 5.6 rebounds don't look very intriguing on paper, he gets those numbers in just 15.1 minutes, and shoots 61% from the field. If he could get consistent minutes, he would be putting up near all-star worthy numbers nightly, as his impressive 48-minutes-averages of 20.8 points, 17.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks indicate.

I love watching Blair play; his Tenacity, timing, and rare combination of quickness and strength has quickly made him one of my favorite players in the league. I think he is a smaller, quicker version of Dennis Rodman. Blair already has a much more polished offensive game than "the Worm", and his quick second jump (probably the best after Shawn Marion) and nose for the ball have made him the best rebounder I've seen since the '90's. Most people consider Rodman to be the best rebounder of all time, and I think that by the time Blair's career is over, he'll be challenging him for that label. Sure, he's just a rookie, but when I look at Blair, all I see is a future 20-point, 20-rebound per game player.

Watch this short video of Blair. He didn't play a whole bunch of minutes, but still had 16 points, and 19 rebounds. keep your eyes on him the whole time and watch how he works underneath the basket, and gets any rebound that comes his way. (and look at HOW he gets those rebounds) He also is very crafty when it comes to offense, and will take advantage of anybody who doesn't respect his offensive abilities......

I know he is just a rookie, and it might seem insane that I am giving him all these accolades so early, but trust me, if there's one thing I can guarantee, it's that DEJAUN BLAIR won't be going unnoticed very much longer.

Dejuan is a force that cannot be contained.

I'm out....

Life in Gotham Village, Part III

2009-12-07T14:01:00.000-08:00

As Regina Hurtz entered the dark alley, she knew she would walk away a changed person. For the better or for the worse, she would soon find out. To see if she would change or if she would not is what drew her in, and ultimately lead to her demise. It is an addiction to probability, a lust for taking chances that got her to the point she reached.

Entering such a place (as Regina had done) does not come without ramifications. (Side note:ramifications were exactly what Regina was seeking, so this worked out well for her.) Out from the darkness, without warning sprang a human silhouette. Rising and rising until fully erected, Regina came face to face with what, no actually who, she was looking for: snake-man. "What are you doing here, Regina Hurtz" it hissed, sounding as snake like as any human imitating a snake could ever sound. "Im here to see what it is everyone's talking about, thats all. Nothing sinister i swear it". Regina answered in a nervous tone. Sounding like a innocent little school girl did nothing but bad for Regina (bad meaning good in this instance). For you see Regina had come to the alley to see snake-man, and snake-man had been waiting for Regina. Now that they had met, it is as if snake-man had entered Regina, as if snake-man had penetrated Regina's soul. Regina Hurtz was a changed woman, just as she expected to become. She gave snake-man one last look, dead in the eye, then turned around and walked away.

That look changed a life. My life. For you see, i am snake-man. When Regina Hurtz looked me dead in the eye, i did a lot of thinking. When i went home i told my mom what happened. Her response was simple and sweet. She said she was scared. Then the shocking announcement: she said "your movin with your auntie and uncle in Bel Air" I whistled for a cab when it came near the license plate said 'fresh' and it had dice in the mirror. If anything i could say that this cab was rare. But then i thought 'now forget it yo holmes to Bel-Air!' I pulled up to the house about 7 to 8. And yelled back to the cabbie 'yo holmes smell you later'. I looked at my kingdom. I was finally there. To sit on my thrown as the prince of Bel-Air.

Thanksgiving . . .

2009-11-26T03:34:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to say happy thanksgiving to everyone out there in the blogosphere. Have a good time hanging with the fam, and be sure to give thanks for all that we have. And, don't forget to enjoy Lupe's new mixtape. Have a great Turkey Day everyone. I'll leave that with a track...

--Moose

PS: dp this is for you and me: Charles Hamilton is back!!!

A Leap Of Faith

2009-11-15T15:46:00.000-08:00

Return to what you know.
For some, that's routine, for others it's the knowledge that a textbook can provide.
For me, it's sport.
Sports are easy to write about, but hard to write well about. It doesn't matter whether it's about Golf, Ice Hockey, Petanque or Fly-Fishing. If it's poorly written, it doesn't matter how good the subject might be - there won't be readers.
But here's the thing - the style of the author changes depending on the comfort and knowledge they have of their material. Obvious right? Well, maybe so - but why hasn't it been written about prior? Maybe it has. Can you prove it?
For a writer, it's not about being 'average' with their content. It's getting the best stories, most impressive leads, and crucial quotes - they make and break the text.
For an athlete, being 'average' isn't acceptable either. It just isn't. They come up with the best strategies, most impressive performances and crucial plays. And if they don't - they become fodder for the media.
You've seen what pressure can do to athletes. See it in their eyes, their shaking hands, the unecessary movements. Big moments create big characters. When you see Kobe Bryant calling for the ball on the wing, you know he's not afraid of the moment. He won't slide to the corner, shying away from the ball, gesturing "No, no - you take the final shot Lamar Odom. You make the last gasp play."
Even when Brett Favre or Peyton Manning misfires on a touchdown pass during the 2 minute drill in the 4th Quarter, you know that despite the failure, they've learnt something from the experience. That's what makes a champion. In failure, and adversity one can learn and strive forwards and become better. The desire and willpower to improve oneself is what makes a champion.
Manu Ginobli was never the fastest guy on the court, or the most athletic - sure he was above average, but never exceptional - but his effort and desire set him apart from his peers. We've seen the images of him iced from ankles to knees. During the pre-season.
It takes heart to train yourself to the brink of collapse, to push that extra lap around the football field. That final benchpress that burns so much you need two spotters. The last dumbell curl that leaves your bicep screaming for hours afterwards.
And why do they do it? Why, perhaps do you do that? It's minimal gain for a whole lot of pain. Ali, The Greatest said that he could only truly know his limits and abilities once he was past pain and the psychological restraints of his mind.
That burning desire for success lies within all of us. Dormant.
It's up to you to awaken it, nobody can make you work so hard you're ready to crumple to the floor. There can be inspirations, quotes, family, role-models, the list goes on.
But at the end of all things, there is only you and your desire. You must jump to be successful, you cannot be pushed.
Take the Leap of Faith.

Most of my thinking is complex, but most of you think that it's nonsense...

2009-11-05T15:22:00.000-08:00

A Moose Track

So we're two weeks into the NBA season (I think?) and I haven't checked in here for a substantial post in a while, so I'm gonna give it a go here.

I say Jay-Z in Rhode Island a week ago, and I gotta say....man. Was the greatest concert I've ever been to (which doesn't imply much but the show was sick). I had decent seats, the sound wasn't bad, Hov put on a great show. He did pretty much everything....really. Name it, he did it. Big Pimpin', Dirt Off Your Shoulder, 99 Problems....everything. You can see the whole show that I saw in pretty good quality right here.

N*E*R*D, J. Cole and Wale opened for him, and they all performed well. J. Cole only did three songs, but they were the essentials (Grown Simba, Lights Please, I Get Up). He came back to do "A Star Is Born" anyways. Wale did about a half an hour, and he did some good joints--W.A.L.E.D.A.N.C.E., Nike Boots, Pretty Girls, Mirrors, Chillin, World Tour...that's about all I can remember, but he was sick. Had great energy, frequently talked shit about the radio (both while spittin and while talking to the whole crowd). NERD was on for a while and it was tough to hear them; the rock band behind them was kinda ruining it. They were solid, but Pharrell needs to get some dance lessons. Man...

On to the current NBA season. I'll start with the normal things...

The Celtics are dominating. We all know it, and we shouldn't be afraid to admit it by now. You know I'm a big fan, but I'm realistic and I don't take sides while blogging, so I can say that. Rondo is owning while barely taking any field goal attempts, PSquared is playing out of his head, and for those of you who aren't paying attention, Kendrick Perkins has improved immensely. Swatting shots left and right. The C's are the deepest team in the league, and if we don't get injured, then nobody will stop this team.

Miami, Denver, Atlanta, Orlando, Phoenix and LA are all playing outstanding so far among many. Other teams (San Antonio, Cleveland, Dallas) will pick up slack in the next couple of weeks and it'll all even out. And what do you guys think about Washington, Toronto and Philadelphia? I can't make up my mind on any of these teams. So much talent, but...

There haven't been many big surprises this year SO FAR in the league, HOWEVA! we all know that it's too early to call that stuff. J.J. Redick has been playing way too well. Somebody put a lid on that dude, he shouldn't be playing this well. Making me think that the NBA could be some big joke that ends with JJ Redick in the top 10 scoring and rebounding. But on the real, he's doing things other than shooting, and I hope that it's not here to stay.

Maybe it's just me, but I don't see Steve Nash playing the way he's been playing for 82+ games. He's got 19.6 points, 10.8 dimes and 3 boards per game. These numbers look great for Nashty, looks like him circa 2004. But, he's very fallible because of his percentage line--.529 FG%, .923 FT%, and--ready?--.545 3PT%. This will not continue. But, maybe Nash can lead the Suns to a good season. I don't see that out of the picture.

Pick up Brandon Jennings in your fantasy league. He's my rookie of the year pick, and the dude is wreckin. 22, 5 and 4 with 1.7 steals per game is sweet from a rook, even with 34 minutes a game. Jennings is the man. There aren't many point guards who can match up to his quickness, Derrick Rose and Rondo are probably his counterparts in that area.

Not much else I can say here. Keep your eyes on Michael Beasley, just as someone interesting to watch right about now. Happy birthday to our dude DP. Put on some Curren$y and go around saying "play wit it" to everyone after a conversation in honor of his 18th. Be easy.

--Moose

I got 18 years of this!!!!!

2009-11-03T20:35:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to make it known that by the time you guys read this, yo boy will be 18. It's been a fun ride so far and I thank you guys for being my blog mates for almost 2 years now? I not good with times so please remind but I feel like you fellas are family and I've never met you. I have a feeling that once the years go on we will have a chance to link up and do some crazy shit together. Maybe even see young Moose play a D1 college game. Who knows? But I thank God for giving me these 18 years and I hope he gives me 18 more years of happiness and straight up excellence. Just a lil mini vent from ya boy. and since I can now buy black and milds now I plan on buying some just to show the old lady at the corner store by kroger's that I can buy what the hell I want. She was bugging the last time so showing her my ID will make me feel accomplished. That and the act of voting who the fugg I want for office. As always I leave you guys with a beautiful song because November 4th, 1991 was my moms beautiful day and November 4th, 2009 is another beautiful day for me.

"when you fly as a bitch, and you ain't bothered a bit.....this is my beautiful day."
play wit it.

Unabomber

2009-11-01T20:30:00.000-08:00

Basically I'm blowing up overnight.....BOOM!!! Nice to be back in the house while these other dudes out here decorating. I just wanted to take the time out to inform you guys on my fantasy team and why I will go undefeated this year. Moose's team seems unreal to me because there is no way you can have both Carmelo and Bron unless the people in your league are brain dead. Either that or they listened to reggie miller but either way it's a big F#ck up on their part. My team is looking crispy so far seeing that I just beat my first opponent by over 400 points. Gangsta. Here is the run down of my squad.

PG-Monta Ellis. Great choice for me because he is the only true guard on the team and he can get to the rack with ease. and by the looks of it, he will get assists on demand with Ex Cap Jack and Curry in the corner for threes.

SG-Brandon Roy-Kind of on and off guy for me. One day he will score 40, the next he will get 13. But more than likely the 40 comes on regular basis than the 13 so I will take my chances.

SF-LeBron James-Yeah.

PF- Andrea Bargmoney-this motherlover is going to give me some action this year! Pause. Really though he is young dirkin the competition in the first couple of games so I expect nothing but good results from this guy.

C-Bynum-took a big gamble with this one because he is one dead leg away from being out for another year.

Other notable guys- Russel Westbrook, Joe Johnson, Noah, Oden...will be replace soon, Brandon Jennings, Mareese Speights and Gerald Wallace.

When my guys are on, I don't think no one in my League can stop me. I hope you guys are REALLY paying attention to guys like Speights and Jennings though. Especially Jennings. He will win ROY and I have been saying this since last year. The boy is the closest thing to an Iverson I have ever seen. With better passing ability and 100X athletic. It's Paranormal Activity scary. I haven't seen the flick yet but I heard it will make you shit yourself. Anybody want to tell me different?

Basketball season for me starts Saturday and I'm coolin with it. I'm so stressed out by other things in my life right now that I'm not even nervous about the season. I'm ready but looks like this year I might be looking at the nickname of young Ryne Nelson, DNP-CD. lmao don't ask why it just is what it is. After being off the team for two years and finally being "graciously" let back on as a senior, I'm just glad to be on a team and to experience the game I love so damn much. I really wouldn't care if I played a minute because my love surpasses any stats that I could muster up in a high school game. Spalding still has love for me and I'll be damn if I stop loving that chick either. Alright I'm done venting for the moment. I'm off to eat this banana pudding that my mom blessed me with for my birthday. I'm finally going to be 18 so how about you fuckers give me a shout out on twitter or facebook on November 4, 2009 and wish ya boy a good birthday! Thats Wednesday for those who didn't know. Now I leave you with the soulful sounds of my dude, J.Cole. This boy is a problem.

"And it's happening fast........."
play wit it.

in unrelated news.....

2009-10-28T17:48:00.001-07:00

!

I dont have much to say, i dont have manys ways to say it. I have been buisy, neglectful, and misprioritizing. I havent been on here in such a long time. The reason for that, is because i have really not been on SLAM as much as i once was. It might be because i dont have a computer class this year, it might be because the comment rules basically restrict fun, or it might be because the quailty of everything has in my eyes gone down significantly......

Check out my boy, Los. Stummbled across him by accident, he is by far the best unknown rapper out their right now.

His blog - http://swaggaboylos.blogspot.com

Look him up on youtube for proof!

Im tired, and im going to let you finish but BETCATS is the best blogger of all time.

Fantasy Hoops! Who to watch...

2009-10-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Basketball season is almost upon us. Fantasy basketball has drafted (or has almost drafted). And my league has already auto-drafted based on our pre-draft rankings. I think I scored. In a 12-team league, here's my team at the moment...

Gilbert Arenas
Stephen Jackson
Russell Westbrook
LeBron James
Paul Millsap
Carmelo Anthony
David Lee
Jermaine O'Neal
Anthony Randolph
Rodney Stuckey
Udonis Haslem
Luol Deng
Louis Williams

What do you guys think? I think I'm primed for domination. Are there any moves I should make? Trades? Add/Drops? The main dudes who are on the waiver wire are Kellena Azuibuke, James Harden, Robin Lopez, Matt Barnes, Travis Outlaw, Anthony Morrow, Anthony Parker....my fantasy hoops skills aren't on par with my regular hoops knowledge, so if there's any advice that anyone can give to me, I'd love it.

For sleepers this year in terms of production, Anthony Randolph is my number one guy to keep our eyes on. The second-year forward will get his chance, and he will take it. I think he'll definitely be in the running for the MIP award and he will put up consistent numbers across the board. I just traded Marvin Williams for him, and I'm psyched about that.

Villanueva will be a beast this year. I think he'll work well in Detroit, and he'll get the points--but if he can get the boards then he'll be an absolute stud. Jeff Green will get his. Jason Thompson will be a good utility guy. Personally, I'm not worried about Agent Zero at all, I think he'll bounce back and put up 23/9/3. Hopefully our blognamesake will do it.

Andrea Bargnani is a sick fantasy player. If he can grab a couple boards he's one the most valuable ones in the league. Brooke Lopez is gonna break out this season. I'm still skeptical of Oden. I think the dude's only gonna end up being worth 12/9 in his career, which is solid, but definitely not where they thought he'd end up. I'd pass on Oden.

Derrick Rose is a good fantasy player, but only if you don't convert many turnovers. I had him on my squad last season and he turned the ball over too much for my liking, anyways. And yes, on the PG's, my man Rajon Rondo is going to perform. He'll get you 14/8/6, and hold me to that and use it against me if I'm wrong.

That's pretty much all I got. Anything you guys want to add, or any advice you can give me on my team, please let me know. For now, I'm out...

--Moose

Entertaining Hoops Pictures PART TWO

2009-10-17T12:40:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

We all like funny things. Dane Cook. Family Guy. The Los Angeles Clippers. That's why I decided to put together some funny hoops pictures in one post for us all to enjoy. This is Part Two, because almost a year ago I posted the first edition; you can look at it here. Let's go...

Considering the big fella plays for Danny Ferry now, that's pretty embarrassing...

SAFE!

Duncan's a little over-excited here. Wasn't programmed to smile.

Ballet is more fun than basketball anyways.

Does this need explanation?

That's a problem.

There are truly some beautiful Western Conference big men.

Allen really wants......the basketball?

This move is more reliable than Hughes's jumpshot....

Two people here, ladies and gentlemen...

*Whistle* Flagrant two. Technical foul.

Parker's neck DIDN'T break.

I thought Kidd was married?

What, it's just extra support.

Tony's new wrap-around move....

Thanks to all of the sites that I posted onto here from; I got all of the pictures from Google. So there it is....be easy.

--Moose

My Detox

2009-10-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

Yeah so since I have a couple of free minutes on my hand today I wanted to post a little note letting yall know I'm still alive and kicking. Sorry DP vol 2 hasn't dropped yet but I've been writing scholorship essays out of the ass and so right now vol 2 is my equivilant to Dr. Dre's the Detox......the shit might never come out. That doesn't mean I'm not working on it or I'm not working on other ish. NBA is weeks away and that means I'll be back on my Bball shit for the next 7 plus months. And I mos def agree with Moose, Slamonline isn't the same anymore. Two years ago, I used to be so fuggin physched to go to digital photography at school. Not just to look at this chick called Victoria Hunter(shout out to my teammates Gerad and Ife who are probably reading this now!) but to get on slamonline and just debate about anything from basketball to what to get a chick for valentine's day. I miss THOSE Post up Days. Holly is still the shit and her post are better than 2 years before but the comment section is falling off big time. I'm not going to lie I don't even go on SLAmonline but about a couple times out of the week. Maybe my dedication will return when I see more familiar faces but hey I digress. Y'all be easy this weekend and be safe. Tonight I'm off to get into "something" but I haven't found out yet. Should be an adventure.

p.s. To my teammate chris, dog if you're reading this I just wanted to let you know....Reebok fitted hats? We off that......

Yahoo Fantasy Basketball

2009-10-13T23:10:00.000-07:00

So i'm going to go ahead an renew the fantasy league from last year....if you were in it last year you should be receiving invites for this year in the next day...any new people want to join just let me know...

Original as always

2009-10-06T18:06:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Yes, the title is an oxymoron. And the above picture lets everyone know what's on my mind. That, and the fact that I'm not getting the opportunity to write the Celtics season preview for SLAMOnline this year. And, I was kind of outraged that BETCATS didn't get the nod this time. Sorry about that one, BET.

The Packers v.s. Vikings game this Monday was great. Felt like the playoffs there. Despite the recent (ok, not so recent) annoyances following Brett Favre, I always have to cheer for the Minnesota teams (damn right I was watching the Tigers-Twins tiebreaker tonight. AMAZING game). I have to admit that I only watched the first half, bedroom was calling my name after wrestling with this book for the better part of the night. It was still a great game.

On to more SLAM talk. None of the regulars are showing up anymore. TADOne comes every now and then, Eboy is nowhere to be found, and all of us at HIBACHI (myself included) are commenting less frequently. But I'm sounding like a broken record here, I'll stop complaining about that. On to my next speculation...

Has SLAMOnline sold out? I mean, I know that the economy is tough on everything, but the advertising is getting a little too much for SLAM. SLAMTV: Powered by: EA Sports? Really? And who else grimaced at the advertisements that ran at the bottom of countless articles in the latest issue? I don't like it, but I know I'm being a crybaby, so don't rip me in the comments...

On to the Top 50, and how I think it should stack up from now on (this was written on the day that Pierce was ranked 17, so don't say that I got anything wrong or anything. Okay, here are my rankings...

16. Pau Gasol
15. Tony Parker

14. Chris Bosh

13. Kevin Garnett

12. Brandon Roy

11. Tim Duncan

10. Carmelo Anthony

9. Kevin Durant

8. Deron Williams

7. Dirk Nowitzki

6. Amare' Stoudemire

5. Dwight Howard

4. Dwyane Wade

3. Kobe Bryant

2. Chris Paul

1. LeBron James

This is just rough, nothing concrete, nothing huge. Yeah, I put Chris Paul over Kobe Bryant. Why? Because I believe that CP3 will have better all-around stats than Kobe, and that he will be a better team leader. I see the Lakers as a definite, definite force, but I think that Kobe's stats will deflate this year with the addition of Artest, and I see Ronny as a possibility for implosion. In my opinion, Chris Paul gets the nod over Kobe for the first time, based on what SLAM has laid out as the criteria for the list.

Until next time, a track...

What Else Is New?

2009-10-03T19:22:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, just a quick update from me (at least by my standards).
I graduated HS on Friday afternoon, had formal (which is like prom I guess). Then afterparty etc etc. So I'm all done with High School now except for these big-ass exams which start in 2 weeks time and finish around November 30ish.
So until then, you will not be blessed with my presence. Shame, I know. But study comes first
...
In other news, we've started to get the NFL here and I'm enjoying it. We saw the Vikings v. 49'ers game, and that final pass by that really, really old guy for the Vikings was.. good.
The Lions won. Hmm.
I think I'm going to cheer for the most thug team in the League. Lemme know who that is. Or you can just say why I should support your team.
...
The NRL Grand Final is on today. It's our equivalent of the SuperBowl. If any of you are interested, it'll be all over youtube tomorrow. Expand your horizons.
...
Speaking of expanding horizons, I'm really digging 'Girl Talk', he's a guy who does mashup music from top 40 type stuff and fuses it with hip-hop, rock, pop most genres actually.

Have a listen.
allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344">

In a world of hypotheticals....

2009-09-29T13:01:00.000-07:00

Did you miss me America? Well a lot of shit has happened since i wrote last. I have started school. When my time isnt consumed by writting shit for my AP English class (yup i am taking AP English! Me, the same guy who couldnt even form a comprehensible sentence 2 years ago) i am chilling with my friends. I have been balling, lost some of my bunnies, but i can still dunk two handed on 10 feet.

On here, one of the best pieces ever written was wrote (look at the article directly below this post for proof) by RV and their were so many Moose Tracks everywhere that it appeared some canadians showed up and had a orgy.

I am cutting down on my SLAMONLINE commenting due to 2 overlying problems:

1) I dont have any computer classes this year (thank god i dont gotta deal with ms haynes ever again)

2) It sorta sucks now. Ryne made all these 'rules' that restrict what you can and cannot say. Since i enjoy 'flame wars' and 'off collar comments' which are now outlawed, i cant find any way to have fun. So i guess i will have to resort to new techniques for conjering words together, but until i do, the 'BETCATS domination of the comment box' will not be what it once was....

In global news, well a lot of shit has happened. California is constantly on fire. Speaking of California, i swear they voted to ban gay marriage last year! If that is the case, somebody please explain how the Lamar Odom/Khloe Kardashian marriage got through. (sorry Khloe, i would probably bone you too but the jokes are just waaay too easy).

Other then the goofy state of Cali, Iran has been making nukes, everyone has forgot about North Korea, Israel is still expanding, the British Prime Minister claims that he was chosen to lead the world out of recession, and the entire time Barack Obama has been dilly-dallying concerned about health care. I am in favor of a public option, but right now it is just not do-able. We need to get out of the finacial crisis before we deal with health care. I am not saying dont pass any reforms now, but lets not pass any that would just add to the debt, which is already insurmountable. The civil rights movement wasnt fought and won in a day, or via one bill. Why should health care be any different?

DJ Pretty Kitty recommends you all go to Datpiff.com and download the new Gorrila Zoe mixtape 'GI JOE'. Yeah, its the shit.

I salute you all:

(for some reason i cant embed stuff, if anyone wants to help me, feel free)

Ps- Thanks for reading
Pps- If it was underlined/bold it was a link
Ppps- I like doing this 'ps thing' (it has been a reacurring theme in my last 2 pieces!)
Pppps- get fucked
Ppppps- thats it im done

Tracy McGrady, I apologize.

2009-09-25T23:59:00.001-07:00

I apologize. I apologize for questioning your talent. For doubting your desire to be great. For not believing you gave 100% on the court. Not because I believe I was wrong, but because now I know it was justified. How do I know? Because for most of my basketball playing days I was you. Yes, I was the Latino T-Mac. Allow me to explain.

First, let me point out I was never a serious threat to play pro-ball. I became more preoccupied with working to make my own money. And well, it's hard out there for someone 5'9 and 160. So I had to be T-Mac of the playgrounds (ok stop laughing). Yeah I was that guy who could keep his team of scrubs in games, scoring 70-80% of points. The guy who didn't always have to drive because he could get his shot over anyone . I would talk trash and guarantee wins because I knew my talent was good enough to take over when I wanted. Practice? We talkin bout practice?? Never heard of it. Never done it. Just laced them up, threw up some warm up shots and my game was on.

However, there was always something missing in my game. I played consistently well, but there always seemed to be that itch I couldn't scratch. I could dribble well, but couldn't handle the rock. I could shoot well, but couldn't stroke the jumper. I could block shots, but didn't swat them. I could get assists, but didn't really throw dimes. Know what I mean? I got the job done, but it wasn't basketball pretty sometimes. My conditioning was great, I was athletic, knew how to play, but yet some let downs had people questioning my effort at times. I could snatch the ball from a fast breaking point like T.J ford used to do, so then why would a guy go around me so easily? I could drain 30 foot jumpers, but I missed that breakaway layup? Grabbin' rim one day and grabbin' net the next?? WTF is going on? Everything felt right to me. Nothing hurt. My brain knew what I wanted to do, it sent that electrical signal ASAP, yet my body was doing its own thing.

"I saw the guy out of the corner of my eye, so I went to change up my shot and no elevation.” -T-Mac, after getting hung on the rim last season

Now I know why. Back in 95' I had suffered a serious left ankle sprain playing for my 7th grade team. No medical treatment. No rehab. No crutches. That big ass ankle brace? My Pennys couldn't squeeze around it. I hobbled around school for almost a month. Came back to the team too early. Eventually the pain went away, but my ankle never felt the same. I just figured it was normal after such an injury. I did visit a few doctors, even specialists, over the span of 10 years. Never got me anywhere. Now, within the last half a year, my whole left side has felt like it was breaking down one piece at a time. The bones in my ankle were grindin' harder than a high school couple. At prom. With hotel reservations for later. My shoulder stayed away from it's joint like it was on probation. Knee was more unstable than Ron Artest. Had a little snap in my hip, a crackle in my thumb and a pop in my elbow. Turns out that old injury caused all this. I had limped around for so long that even after my ankle had "healed", most of my left side was still tight and tense from trying to stay off the foot. Most of the muscles on my right side had become very dominant and now they were just taking the left ones along for the ride. If you were to look at me nothing was obviously wrong. Yet I had a very significant muscle imbalance that was throwing my body alignment out of whack.

"His whole body was imbalanced from basically his shoulder blades down to his feet. He was developing a lot of back problems ... He was developing strength in an imbalanced fashion." - T-Mac's physical therapist, David Reavy .

And that is why I'm T-Mac. Because I too once though I could play through pain, only to have it catch up to me. I too thought I had figured it out and was coming back healthy. Better than ever even. And failed. I too thought I had an easy play once, only to have my body fail me and it too left me looking like a joke. But now I know what was really wrong all this time. Now I can truly rehab. Now I can truly feel the difference. I can feel better than ever. Now I can scratch that itch. I know where it is. And I'm going to scratch it well. Maybe too well. Tmac has been breaking down like me. The root of my imbalance was an old injury, his was scoliosis, an imbalance that became worse with time. Every new injury led to a bigger imbalance because it meant another part of your body has to pick up the slack. Back problems? More imbalance. Knee issues? Shoulder problems? More imbalances. T-mac had them all. Why didn't other trainers or doctors fix this before? Why didn't my doctors fix me? Well sometimes doctors don't care enough, or don't have enough time to look any further. Most of my doctors wouldn't look further into my case simply because the x-rays showed nothing negative. They never asked further questions. Maybe they didn't care enough or didn't know enough. I had my suspicions something was wrong. Some friends and family even accused me of just trying to find something wrong, like if i needed an excuse to not do well. The professionals were telling me everything was fine. So I had to be , right? So I ignored any creeping pain or discomfort over the years. Now, I am lucky enough to have just graduated as an exercise science major. That education allowed me to self-diagnose and now treat myself. T-Mac though, he's got Tim Grover and his staff. The best in the business.

When I got here with these guys, [shoot] I think after the first week when I was working with [Dave] I was feeling good, I was like, "Damn," 'cause he was getting other muscles to fire on my body that hadn't fired in a long time." - T-Mac

Its not just his latest rehab attempt that I respect, but everything he's done so far in his career. Every practice, every weight training session , every shootaround. The 13 in 35. The all-star selections. Scoring leader. The 47 in Utah just last year. Why? Because he did it with his body all jacked up. I make sure I remind my boys at the playground of the same. How I played well back then all out of whack and now I'm fixing myself up. Imagine what I'll be able to do once I'm done. Be afraid, very afraid. They laugh, though. They think I'm crazy and don't take my words very seriously. I'd like to see Kobe Bryant score his 20+ a game with one shoe on, his jersey tucked in too tight, the drawstrings to his shorts tied around his back and then up to his neck, all while turning his hips just slightly to the right. At least that's kind of how I felt, but I imagine T-Mac can relate. This began for me at a young age. I had just seriously started playing sports, after being mostly a couch potato, so I couldn't compare how my movements felt before and after my injury. I hadn't played ball much prior to it. I didn't know my feet could be so much more stable while taking a freebie, among other things. T-Mac is similar because he's had scoliosis, and therefore some degree of muscle imbalance, since he's been playing ball. Just like me, he didn't know how much better he could move. Neither of us knew what right felt like until we were right.

"I think he's gonna be a player like he used to be in his younger days, because his body is balanced now," Reavy says confidently. "He's using all his muscles properly and everything's absorbing a force and creating a force versus just the knee." -Reavy

So yes, i do believe T-Mac will truly be back in All-Star form. It's unfortunate he didn't get his body corrected until this late in his career, so age and wear and tear will stil affect him. I don't think we'll truly know how great he would have been had he done this earlier and stayed with it. But believe it when he says he's coming back this year. Believe it when he says he'll make it right after so much wrong last season. I do. I know how correcting the problem can make simply moving around so much better. So much easier. After years of working harder just to move incorrectly, now we just work hard to move correctly.. So let them think you're all talk. Let them believe they've heard this before. Let them look past you. Let them laugh at you and point fingers. Let them, because in the end, you will have the last laugh.

Rockets are Loving It

2009-09-23T20:57:00.000-07:00

New alternate unis...

http://www.nba.com/rockets/news/rocketsunveilalternatejersey_2009_09_23.html

http://www.click2houston.com/video/21094330/index.html

READ MOOSE'S PIECE AFTER THIS!!!!!

I believe, scratch that, I know...

2009-09-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

With the two above pictures, you probably have an idea about what part of this post is about. There is a lot of hype surrounding both of these young hip hop artists. I want to give my opinion on both of them. But you already knew that.

I'll start with Drake. Aubrey Drake Graham . . . has the amount of hype that makes LeBron look underrated (what a coincidence!). In my opinion, Drake is overrated. He has a few tracks that are smooth (Forever, Successful, Best I Ever Had). This guy is good. But they keep saying that he'll be able to change the hip hop game forever. I really don't know if that is possible. But he sure seems to think so (The game needs some change/and I'm the motherfuckin' cashier). We'll have to see about that one.

Asher Roth is a different story. The people who don't listen to all of Asher only hear the "I Love College" Asher Roth and they frown upon him without hearing more of his songs or the more articulate Asher Roth. His music is good; his rhymes are clever and it's different. He's not trying to be something he's not; he's just keeping it real HIS way. Maybe it's the fact that I can relate to it that makes me like it (hip hop that I can relate to is hard to come by; but I love it anyways), but I think it's great. Keep doing what you do, Asher.

This wins t-shirt of the week. It wasn't a giant crater. Take THAT, eighth grade earth science. Just playing, school.

Something funny! Something funnier! Something funnier than that? Wow! And he's from Massachusetts?

SLAMOnline is slacking. Not the site. The site is great; the site is improving all the time, the SLAM guys are up and continuing to raise the bar, up the ante, all that other cliche stuff. But, the comments section...is getting sad. We need to make it better. The absence of key guys is really apparent, and I'm wondering where everybody went. This is the Top 50 specifically. And, about that, where is Rondo??? Seriously messed up. If this whole mediocre commenting scene isn't different by the time the season starts, then...I don't know. I'll follow hockey, then (please god, no!).

NFL week two...my Patriots are not coming out of the gate like we thought they would. Brady is completing 60+ percent of his passes, but his passer rating is low and he has two touchdowns compared to two picks. Not great at all. Our defense is just atrocious so far, but maybe we'll figure it out. Bill Belichick always has a plan. Usually always has a plan. But the Patriots are 1-1 and we could've just as easily been 0-2. The Niners and Falcons are 2-0. I hope this balances itself out. We need to give my man Matt Ryan some problems this Sunday.

And let me add something else onto that--Rex Ryan has proven himself to be a jerk so far. Yeah, his defense is good, but the dude isn't being very sportsmanlike--he said that he didn't want the Jets to beat the Pats, he wanted to "embarrass" them. He sent out three ex-Patriots as captains to the coin flip (among them their third string QB who used to be with NE). Just classless

I'll leave you with the greatest intro in hip hop history IMHO...

--Moose

Yaooooooo

2009-09-18T21:52:00.001-07:00

A little vid for those rockets' fans out there...and those closet fans as well, i know y'all are out there...

NFL Week One...and everything else from the past week

2009-09-16T17:46:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Can Adrian Peterson win a whole fantasy football league? Uhm, I think that he just might. Three touchdowns, 100+ yards, and that 67-yard run was incredible. Let's take another look...

How good is AP really? This guy is just insane. And, he's going up against the Lions' defense next weekend. On to other good performances from this past weekend...

Drew Brees: 348 yards, 6 touchdown passes. Six. Touchdown. Passes. That won't happen against any other team than Detroit, who he obviously picked apart. Man, I feel bad for the Detroit Lions. I mean, there are some bad teams in sports, and we all get that: they're worse than everyone, don't win many games...but they all win a couple. The Lions need at least one win this year; it's just sad if they repeat last year.

Tony Romo and Joe Flacco both threw for three touchdowns, but the most interesting quarterback situation was in New York, where they were starting the rookie, Mark Sanchez. The former USC Trojan threw for 272 yards with a touchdown. Not bad for a rook who's thrown into a starting spot with a mediocre team.

Anyways, on to the last one, and of course the most interesting--New England Patriots. Everyone had their eyes on Brady's leg, and we all know that he didn't look very comfortable on it at the beginning, but he did improve as the game went along. Started off shaky, ended well. Even if we had to take it to the last two minutes to beat the Buffalo Bills. Pains me to think about it. Our offense looked nice. They established the run game well, and the passing game looked fine. But, the Pats' defense sucks. Plain as that. SUCKS. And it really doesn't help that we lost our second-best defender in the first half for almost the whole season.

Off of football now and on to pop culture. Kanye....Kanye....Kanye. Man. I was thinking about why Yeezy did this the other day, and I thought "He probably thought it was a good idea at the time". But I thought a little more about it, and I had no idea how Kanye thought that any good would come from that. And to all people, Taylor Swift?? Jeez. How could you be so hea-art-less? And, he looked like a fool anyways because Beyonce won best overall video. For him, this is frickin' embarrassing.

I know DP's opinion on the Blueprint 3; what did you guys think? Overall, I liked it. Some of the songs were painfully bad, but other than that most of it was pretty slick...I got the tickets and it cost a lot of hard-earned money so it better be good...

So I want to talk about the SLAMonline Top 50. Where's the energy? None of the regulars are showing up, nobody's commenting that much; it just doesn't have the fire that it had last year. You guys know what I'm talking about. And, where have all the SKO guys been? Not just on SKO, but on SLAM as well. If any of you are reading this, where are you guys?? Which is a perfect segue to my next topic...

Has HIBACHI lost readers instead of gaining them? Commenting has gone significantly down; I'm just a little bit worried and kind of interested about this. Anyways, to our faithful readers/commenters, thank you.

With that, I'll leave you something from Deltron 3030...

--Moose

DP vol 2....What we talkin bout?????

2009-09-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

Yo man what we talking bout? We talkin bout real ish or we talkin bout fake ish?/ We talkin bout healthcare? Na homie I don't play with./ We talkin bout the top 50 or we talkin bout Mike?/ We talkin bout Stockon being one of the greatest PG's??? aite./ We talkin bout Moose or we talkin bout Hursty?/ We talkin bout Mr. Walsh....oh yeah that's my broski./ I ain't talkin Eboy, I ain't talkin bout Riq.../I'm talkin bout me and my boy B.E.T/.....man I'm talkin bout Bachi,I'm talkin bout the takeover, I'm talking bout young Hov...he's album is hella dope you should pick it up out the stores.../That's what I'm talkin bout./ (Not done yet so keep rhyming with a playa). I'm talkin bout life and I'm talkin bout fame,/ I ain't talkin bout how my high school football can't win a game/...that's not what I'm talkin bout./ I'm talkin partying and I'm talking bout dancing.../I'm talking bout how I almost got arrested last weekend/ that's what I'm talking bout... Hahah man I'm talking bout money and I'm talkin bout cars.../I'm talkin bout clothes and I'm talkin bout hoes..../I just want to be....I'm talkin bout college and I'm talkin bout scholarships,/ I'm talkin bout takin the ACT this morning and I know I aced the shit.../That's what I'm talking bout... Yep, I'm talking bout Wale and I'm talking bout Cudi..I'm talking bout how both of their albums are going to be as dope as silly puddy..That's what I'm talkin bout. (last line was lame, I know, but work with me). I'm talkin bout Young Tebow and I'm talking bout Barkley, I'm talking bout the QB from Michigan, yo TAD holla at me...that's what I'm talkin bout. I'm talkin bout bball, I'm talking bout the grind..I ain't talkin bout my job, fuck you pay me is line...that's what I'm talkin bout. I'm talkin bout my swag and I'm talkin bout tools...I ain't talkin bout you and guess what??? this just the first part of volume 2. That's what I'm talkin bout...............play wit it.

The End of the Rainbow

2009-09-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Usually there's a pot of gold right about now. But that doesn't have anything to do with anything, I just randomly put that as the title to this post because it was the first thing to pop into my mind. Lotsa topics to discuss here. So let's get moving....

First, my condolences. This has been a summer of great loss, and this just adds to the list. Rest in peace to Ted Kennedy, an American legend and a Massachusetts staple. He will be missed. My prayers go out to his family. Also, rest in peace to Adam Goldstein, aka DJ AM. My prayers go out to his family as well. We'll be able to say more on this once we get the whole story, but for now we don't know everything about that.

Okay. Richard Seymour was traded to the Oakland Raiders for their 2011 first round draft pick. I was kinda mad when I first heard it; he was a rookie when I first became a Patriots fan in 2001 (when I was seven) and I've been watching his whole career ever since, always been one of my favorite players. I mean, the dude's 6-6, 310 and runs faster than most NBA point guards. Well, not that fast. But wicked fast, anyways.

I realized that there were probably some problems with the Patriots organization and Seymour, and his contract expires after next year, so they realized that they might as well get rid of him now with payoff if they weren't going to be able to pay him anyways. Makes sense to me; but I'm still not happy about it. At least Oakland will give us a nice first-rounder in twenty-ten. And, he helped win three super bowls. Good enough for me. Thanks for the contributions, Richard.

The Blueprint Three kinda came out this week, and I thought that it was pretty good. Not amazing. Pretty good. The beginning of the album was better than the second; the opening two were nice, and of course D.O.A. and Run This Town were niiiiice. The album was good, not incredible. Empire State Of Mind was good; Alicia Keys is sick. I'm going to try to get tickets to the one at UMass-Amherst or Rhode Island....wish me luck.

Allen Iverson to.....Memphis?! The Grizzlies don't care about winning, only putting fans in the seats for a game or two. Memphis owner Michael Heisley: "Obviously I think he’d be a crowd pleaser in Memphis.” Well, obviously Mr. Heisley has no intention of competing at least this year. Well, at least the dude is a realist.

Anyways, that's pretty much all I got for now....I'm out then. I'll leave you with a song from Boston's best....

Be easy.

--Moose

Not the final piece of the puzzle, but it's nice....

2009-09-04T14:57:00.001-07:00

My Time is Now

2009-08-29T23:28:00.000-07:00

-Hursty-

I figured I'd get in quick on what slam is doing right now, but a little differently.
This is a list of (in my personal opinion) guys who are due to break out for their teams and a sentence or two why.
Note; This 'break-out' doesn't necessarily represent a 2nd or 3rd year player - for example, Wallace, Rasheed.
So, breaking it down by division, starting with the Eastern Conference:

Atlantic Division

Boston - Rasheed Wallace. Dude just got a new contract, and is once again looking at a veteran team with a designated centre(Perkins). His statistics may not reach double-double status again, but his level of play should improve.
Philadelphia - Lou Williams, Thaddeus Young, Marresse Speights: Ok, so it's three dudes. It's been yelled across the interwebs for all to hear, but PHI doesn't have a 'true' PG anymore - Lou will get extended playing time because of this. Elton Brand isn't quite healthy yet and Young and Speights will continue to take advantage of this, meaning more rebounds, points and playing time.
New Jersey - *The Whole Damn Team* (TWTD) - Um, yeh. Harris will now be the unquestioned leader of the squad with Vince back home, and apparently that Courtney Lee kid is motivated to play well. Brook Lopez is a prospect too. Long, athletic and a soft touch from 8ft inwards, I like him a lot, especially since the rest of New Jersey's interior is pathetic.

New York - Wilson Chandler - This is my dude. One of the only consistent guys, who is known to be on the roster for opening night. David Lee may not be there, same with Kryptonate with his legal troubles. I considered Danillo Gillinari (who?) for this, but.. yeh. 'Nuff said.

Central Division

Cleveland - J.J Hickson - I'ma go with this young fella right here, for a few reasons. Dude left NC State a year or two early and got drafted in about the right spot, but never quite adapted to the League in his rookie year. The trade to get Shaq got rid of Big Ben, leaving additional time at the 4spot for JJ. This means 10-25 minutes a night need to get played and Anderson Varejao can't gobble them all up, even with his hair. There's always the potential for injury to occur as well.

Toronto - Andrea Bargnani - it has to be him. Hedo is already playing at an all-star level, and I expcet DeRozan to be solid from day one, but Bargs' has shown so much potential, first early last year, when he was almost at 20/10 for a month, then late last year, when he had multiple 20/10/4/2 games. Hopefully he can continue that level of play. Chris Bosh is absolutely gooone otherwise. (Personally I think he made up his mind 2 seasons ago to leave).

Chicago - Derrick Rose, Luol Deng - Rose will up his performance in basically every single statistical category. His shooting from the mid-range area against Boston was excellent, and I truly hope this wasn't an appirition. Deng appears to be healthy after all of his numbers took hits last year with his injuries and the emergence of the ever-shooting John Salmons. Sure, statistically he may not improve, but his ability to play the game will.

Detroit - ? - Anyone can take this position. Well, almost anyone. I feel that Tayshaun will take more of a scoring burden this season, so will Villanueva. Remember when Charlie had a 40+ point game with Toronto as a rookie?

Indiana - Troy Murphy - I'm gonna go with Troy because he quietly went about being one of the most consistent rebounders in the League last year, and was in the top 5 for double-doubles too - AND he beat the Lakers with a tip-in. Gotta love that. It's not unreasonable to expect his 10/10's to increase this year. Dahntay Jones will get the opportunity to prove he's more than just a dunker too.

Milwaukee - Andrew Bogut(!) - Bogut is expected to be healthy for this year's training camp and with the departure of Charlie V AND Richard Jefferson, he'll need to increase his rebounding, scoring and overall role with the team. It's that simple. He's also one of the veterans of the squad now, with Michael Redd and Bruce Bowen the two oldest, most 'veteranish' tennants currently.

Southeast Division

Orlando - Vince Carter - Vince played great for N.J last season averaging over 20/5/5 once again. But, playing on a veteran squad, contending for a title NOW, his leadership will be required late in close games, as well as his clutchness (yes, that IS actually a word). His breakout will be in the success category (best playoffs result was in 2001, 2nd round), not in highlights or in statistics.

Atlanta - Joooosh Smiiith - Really? Yeh, I guess so. Al Horford will be better, but Smith, who has apparently worked 'really hard' on his shooting this off-season, still has the greatest potential for growth on this squad. If he can get his off-the-bounce game right, his athleticism will take over from there.

Miami - Michael Beasley - I'm sorry to do this to the kid, considering the difficulties he's got going on right now - but a large portion of the Heat's success this year and into the future will rest on Beasley's tattoo'd shoulders. If he up's his game, then maybe Wade will be enticed to stay on for a contract extension. Beasley played less than 25 minutes a game last year, and this should rise - if he can get his psyche right. A speedy recovery young fella.

Charlotte - Boris Diaw, D.J Augustin, Tyson Chandler - Boris will slide further into his point forward role this year, while DJ hopefully won't experience a sophomore slump. Diaw's versatility proved invaluble to the 'Cats, especially with Gerald Wallace doing his 'thang' (sorry if that came across awkwardly). Chandler flat out sucked with the Hornets last year, and hopefully he can regain that '08 form. Shouldn't be hard though - anything is better than last year. Urgh.

Washington - Gilbert Arenas - Who else but Agent Zero? Dude looks healthy and strong, and he's out playing competitive ball already, so all signs are good for Arenas. By himself. he should be able to once-again put the Wizards back into the playoff hunt, as long as Butler and Jamison remain healthy.

The Western Conference... is coming up next week. Stay tuned.

Peace, Hursty.

Twas all a dream, i once fancied word up magizine

2009-08-27T15:19:00.000-07:00

School is back for me!!! So i quit my day job as a burger king burger flipper a few days ago. I was going to tell you all about it, but somebody else had something new posted, so i couldnt.

While i was at BK, nothing really 'strange' happened. Although i wish i had some cool stories, i dont. All the things i did were based off situations where people got hungry i made them french fries and onion rings. But here is somebody else who works at a different Burger King's cool story:

A picture is worth a thousand words...........
The end (sort of)

PS- The Bobcats still havent signed Allen Iverson

PPS- The Bobcats need a scorer, and Iverson is the only legit one left on the market

PPPS- If the Bobcats dont get a scorer, they have a 0 chance of making the playoffs, Iverson or no Iverson

PPPPS-I dont really have faith in the Bobcats front office to get anything done. Rod Higgins is a 'all bark no bite' type, and MJ/Larry Brown really has to egg him on to get anything done

PPPPPS-now im really done!

The Furious Five....Links of the Week

2009-08-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Okay, I need something new here that I've been thinking about for a while. You know how Lang Whitaker does "The Links" on SLAM? And, BETCATS semi-regularly (all right not THAT regularly, but it's his idea) does/did the Ten Deadly Links on here and The Cat's Meow? Well, I'm going to build on what they've already started. So, guys, I'm not stealing your idea, I'm making my own version.

I realized that I wanted to contribute more to this site, but I couldn't think of how to contribute more regularly without constant ideas of epic writing pieces. So, I'm going to go with a constant weekly post as well as the normal posts that I.....post. So, I bring you, Grandmaster Moose and the Furious Five....Links of the Week. It's going to try to be funny, tell me what you think about the idea and how it'll work. So, with all of that to think about....here we go. Oh yeah, and every post ends with some music.

1. Usain Bolt broke his own world record. This is obviously the way to celebrate it.

2. T.I. knows where he's from, right? Whatever. I'll take the free fake reppin'.

3. Thank you Captain Obvious .

4. For a second, you thought Biggie had it right.

5. This is a damn shame. Too many famous people make mistakes like this. But this is a topic for another day; I just posted it because it was news.

To finish it off.....

--Moose

There are four sides to me this offseason...

2009-08-23T19:07:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Above, you see four different color shots of the same picture. Each one represents how I feel certain teams have done this offseason. Read on.

The picture in the top left is thinking about the Cleveland Cavaliers. We all know that LeBron James is King. That much is certain. But, they needed to build around the King. So, they made a bold Shaquisition and brought in the Big Aristotle. The big guy looks to be in pretty good shape; and he'll be focused. Teams will have their eyes on Shaq this year; playing the enforcer to LBJ. But, they didn't stop there....acquiring Jamario Moon, Anthony Parker, Darnell Jackson and (it pains me to say this) Leon Powe. Very, very solid role players. They have the role players. They have the superstar(s?). If they piece it together, a championship might be in their future. Great offseason for the Cavs.

The top right picture is thinking about the Boston Celtics. My Celtics are having a stellar, if not incredibly active, offseason. Of course, they brought in Rasheed Wallace. This is a huge pickup for Beantown, and he will bring scoring, length, intensity and great minutes. What else can you ask for? New city, new team, new 'do. Rasheed is going to be the catalyst in terms of leadership this season. A new fire. As for other acquisitions....Shelden Williams. Ehhh. Re-signed GBBD. That was a good move, if you ask me. And, Marquis Daniels. We're still trying to figure out how he's going to get here, but he's getting here. Good scoring if he stays near the basket and doesn't shoot. Hopefully we won't have to give up Walker. And, with all this, we have to ask the question: Are the Boston Celtics the ugliest team in the NBA?

The picture in the bottom left is wondering and is very puzzled about the Washington Wizards. If you ask me for my opinion, I have no idea what the Wizards are going to look like this year. But think about it....a healthy Gilbert Arenas, Antawn Jamison, Caron Butler, Randy Foye, Mike Miller. With Fabricio Oberto and DeShawn Stevenson as main guys off the bench. Yeah, the big men are a bit thin, but JaVale Mcgee is developing quickly and maybe Haywood is up for it this year. But the X-factor is obviously Gilbert Arenas. We've heard countless rumors this summer that Agent Zero is back and better than ever this year. 30 point averages like earlier? We hope so. We'll all see for this one.

The last picture/face/color is wondering about the Orlando Magic. Yes, they lost Hedo Turkoglu, who was insanely clutch and a huge player for them last year down the stretch. Yes, they lost Courtney Lee, who proved to be a great asset as a rookie off the bench and in the starting rotation. Those were big losses. So, it's all on Vince Carter now. But, my question is: Did the Magic improve this offseason? Now, the whole league will be going after them night in and night out, something they're not used to. But I'll save the predictions for my season prediction (coming later). But, they just got White Chocolate, so what the hell, give 'em the Larry O'Brien now.

There it is. Four takes on different Eastern Conference teams. Western Conference keys coming later.

--Moose

DP vol 1.

2009-08-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

Fugg it all. I am back in school and back on the court forever I hope. Last year of ballin left in me and I must say I'm going to treat it like a white chick on prom night that is drunk and will only get down with me for that one time in my life(pointless rambling but true story), I'm going to live it up and kill it. Are basketball program over the years as been, how can I put this....sorry. We have progressed every year since I was a freshman, we were 2-26 then, last year we were 16-14. This year we lost 3 starters but it's all good because we have my boy Gerad and Ife and my favorite white baller, Matt Bird back on the team. and yes Bird is related to larry bird. He is like his 6th cousin or some shit like that but family is family man. The coaches have us on this new Miami heat program workout because they suck as individuals to inspire us to do any work. So they have to rely on this big ole book filled with workouts and drills to coach us. Pretty generic to me but hey I kind of like what we are doing. Lifting weights and running the track one day and basketball skill work the next day. This has had to be the most painful two weeks of my life because A)I hate running and I barely do it on my own and B)weights just aren't my forte ya dig? I think i'm also finally developing a six pack for the first time in my life so ladies give me call cuz gonna take a shot like Pau gasol....like the rhyming? Yeah I know I'm dope. In other news around my school, we have aquired Lindeys Hunter's son onto our team. The kid is only a 10th grader and he is pretty good. Sometimes I feel he thinks he is LeBron or Kobe's kid sometimes but all in all he can ball and I'm just ready for the season to begin. My prediction for my boys is that we will make it to the playoffs this year and go from there. Of course I want to win it all but I've got to be realistic and take it one step at a time.

-Shit that is rambling my mind

1.How do you "fail" the ACT?-directed to derrick rose
2.Why do I like the "TO show?"
3.When is Hibachi Tv coming?-real soon...just got into broadcast journalism at school and the cameras are at my disposal. get ready for some ish in the next couple of weeks.
4.Is the Blueprint 3 worth the hype?
5.Is "Relapse 2" even worth hyping?
6.How many chicks will I bag at the upcoming football next week?-my answer...every girl in the world. Don't hate me for being a dog.

Aite I'm about to bounce and watch some "disney" channel. Kim possible sounds like a good idea but who knows, i might just pop the family guy in the system. Hope you guys are ready for bachi tv because it's about to pop off. and don't expect anything basketball....for now. It is still the offseason peeps. holla. play wit it.

Come On, Brett....This Is Getting Embarrassing

2009-08-20T16:06:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Brett Favre was on top of the football world. It was 2007, and after setting the record for wins for a quarterback (149) and career touchdown passes (421) he decided to leave on top. '07 was a season of milestones. He became just the third quarterback in history to defeat every NFL team. He extended his record for consecutive playoff games with a touchdown pass (18). A deep playoff run. In the twilight of a historic career, it was the perfect time to call it quits; preventing a predictable downfall.

So as the tears ran down Brett's 37-year old face, we all lamented a legend leaving a game that people loved him for, but at the same time we were happy that Favre was making the right decision. I mean, he had played his entire career with the Packers, if you don't count four passes (that weren't caught) with Atlanta. Sixteen seasons. Ten Pro Bowls. Three NFL MVPs. One Super Bowl. All with one team. He had started every game for the Packers from 1992 through 2008. Right now is the perfect time to retire.

But, of course, Favre wished he hadn't said what he did at that press conference. "I know I can play, but I don't think I want to. And that's really what it comes down to." But, he still tried to initiate talks with the Packers about returning. Favre changed his mind, but the Packers didn't, sticking to their decision to have Aaron Rodgers start at QB.

So, leaving the Packers then wasn't your fault, we'll forgive you there. We still think you should've stuck to your guns on retirement, but leaving Green Bay wasn't what you wanted. But, you also wanted to be reinstated so that you could be free to try to play for a competitive team...so, why the New York Jets? I mean, the Patriots were coming off of an undefeated season (minus the Super Bowl, I know), the Dolphins were on the rise and the Jets really just weren't.

The season ended without Favre making the playoffs, and the drama surrounding it was over. Fast forward to late July of 2009.

All over the paper, SportsCenter and all other sports publications, there were talks of Brett Favre retiring again, which wouldn't have been a surprise for everyone. Shouldn't have been a surprise for everyone; people though that Favre would learn from his first mistake, because he knows he's not getting any younger. Finally, word came out that he'd stay retired, and that it really was the end. Yeah, right.

This week, Favre signed a two-year deal to play with the Minnesota Vikings. The Minnesota Vikings. If that's not a slap in the face to every Green Bay Packers fan who bought his jersey, cheered him on or wrote "Favre" on their chest in melted cheese, I don't know what is. I know some hardcore Packers fans, and they're saying it's insulting. Un-retiring was a bratty move. Retiring AGAIN and un-retiring AGAIN is an even brattier move. Going to the Packers' rivals is just a straight-up diss.

So, Brett, we never know what to believe from you. Based on your history, we shouldn't. And, it's getting annoying. You'll 42 years old by the time your contract with the Vikes will be up. Then, you'll really retire.

Right?

--Moose

Put the razor down tmac!!!!

2009-08-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Golden Umbrella

2009-08-11T06:40:00.000-07:00

So, im extremely bored right now, and being the master of stream-of-consciousness writting, i figured i would get up in this biznetch and write some words.

Admittingly, no artist can work uninspired. D.O.A is a month old, but i still am listening to it. I am not even a Jay-Z fan. Brooklyn music is uninspiring to me for the most part, but for some reason i actually like this song! I tried for the past 15 minutes to embed it, and failed miserably, so you will have to search youtube on your own for it.

Speaking of embedding and such, hibachitv? Whatever happened to that boy!! We really need to work on that. With all this talk of expansion (not pointing fingers, it has been brought up lots of times before by lots of different people) if we cant maintain a 2 part site in a succesful way, i think we should really not even dream so big. I want this site to have 100 followers. That is my dream for the 'bachi.

Flipping the script (because who the fuck wants to hear me ramble about hibachi all day!) how about the news recently! Lots of crazy shit going on in the world. So accordingly, i am bringing back the 10 deadly links (cats meow stand up!)

10. Sucks to be this guy

http://www.abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=8298367&page=1

9. I knew it!!

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2045339/lady_gaga_a_man_not_a_hermaphrodite.html?cat=33

8. I am now scared to sit down/will type the rest of this standing up!

http://www.weirdasianews.com/2009/07/14/anal-penetrating-chair-kills-teen/

7. I picked the wrong summer job:

http://uk.news.yahoo.com/21/20090810/tuk-street-beggars-earning-200-a-night-6323e80.html

6. Why do white people always get the best babysitters? Why couldnt these bitches watch me!!

http://news.aol.com/article/baby-sitter-sex-case/562970?icid=main

5. Is it a once-a-year type thing for Georgia to provoke South Ossettia, then make up some crazy excuse as to why they are doing it? Fuck people saying 'its a small country, the breakaway regions shouldnt exsist'. Shit, Israel is a small country, but i think we all agree it needs to be divide into two countries for any peace to occur their, Why cant the same teachings be brought along here? Let the breakaway regions do what they want, let them become part of Russia.

http://mnweekly.ru/news/20090811/55384960.html

4. First Vince from Shamwow was revealed to be getting in fights with hookers, now the late great Billy Mays is revealed to have used cocaine? The American commercial bussiness must have a extremely dark side. Strange.

http://www.nypost.com/entertainment/movies/news/n18943.htm

3. This is news in itself. I cant get embedding to work at all right now. FYL (fuck your life)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GaT_QYnT0Pw

2. Corn gone wild!

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/08/11/earlyshow/living/recipes/main5232130.shtml

1. R.I.P

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-eunice-kennedy-shriver12-2009aug12,0,4627914.story

Done.

The Not-So-Big Papi

2009-08-06T16:58:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Dear Mr. David Ortiz,

The year was 2004. Your team, the Red Sox, was coming off of three devastating losses in a row to a New York Yankees team that made you look like you had no business being there. It was the American League Championship Series, and the odds were stacked against you as you took the field to defend your honor and pride in front of the hometown crowd.

Through twelve innings the battle continued, until you stepped to the plate--and there was hope yet. With a swing of the bat, you lifted a team, a city, a nation--and we all knew that optimism was in order for the rest of the series. You could've measured the force of the cheers on the richter scale. The walk-off home run sealed the victory, and placed the momentous pressure back on the Yanks' bulky shoulders.

You know how the rest goes. That was just the beginning of building your reputation of hitting it where the fielders ain't at all the right times. Of course, the next night you put an end to a six hour marathon with another walk-off, this time a single. By then it was clear; if Big Papi is up with a close score late in the game, the pitcher starts wishing he had become an accountant, the opposing dugout silences and the Fenway crowd explodes. This was not your first, not your second, but your third walk-off hit of the playoffs--two of them being home runs.

You went on to unprecedentedly take the series from the embarrassed Bronx Bombers, winning four games in a row on top of your ALCS MVP shoulders. As we all know, you took the World Series easily, winning over a Cardinals squad that looked like they've never played an American League team. It was the first World Series for the Sox in 86 years, and it was pure bliss for nine year olds and ninety year olds alike. And, nobody doubted that you were the hero of the playoffs.

I was nine at the time, staying up late night after night to watch you and my beloved Red Sox in their bid to finally take a Championship. I was a kid who loved baseball, and you had been my favorite player since you started hitting it onto the Mass Pike. You were large and lovable, a slugger that was always smiling, who loved to cook and treated his fans as well as he treats his mother. As a matter of fact, for proof, I once saw you hit a grand slam in a pre-season game. I was about ten yards above you, on a high-rise; with about five other fans, me being the only ten year old present. You walked into the concealed clubhouse on the other side of the stadium, and as you walked through, I started cheering, yelling and screaming. You looked up, laughed and waved at us. It was a hero moment if any. And you were my hero, Mr. Ortiz.

As a matter of fact, I attended a game in which you hit one of your patented walk-off home runs. Do you remember June 2nd, 2005? I saw eight innings of your team's magic at Fenway, the only game that I got to attend all season, and I decided to leave early to go to my own Little League game. In the car on the way there, I listened to the broadcast of you doing what I knew you by back then--and I should have been happy about it, excited that you had done it once again, after the famous season. But I cried my eyes out, wishing I could have been there to cheer along with the rest of the Fenway Faithful, watching my favorite player toss his helmet before jumping onto home plate. I have never left a baseball game early on my own terms because of you, Mr. Ortiz.

You produced more than almost all players in the next three years after the historical season, winning another championship in 2007--while taking home four consecutive Silver Slugger awards in the process. Mr. Ortiz, you were everything that was right about baseball in an era that warranted more criticism than any other in any sport. You were the star that everyone loved, who was famous for mango salsa, charity organizations and one big smile. You were the bright spot in a league that had so many problems. And you were truly an inspiration and a role model for kids all over the U.S.--me included. Who's name-and-number tee do you think I wore five days a week despite my mom's disapproval?

But last week, I turned on SportsCenter, and my heart broke quicker than you can say homer. A report was shown that you, David Ortiz, Big Papi, had been linked to Performance Enhancing Drugs in the infamous testing of 2003. For the last six years I had believed that you were the untouchable. It didn't even cross my mind that you were juicing. When the annual test doctors came knocking, I believed you when you said, "All they're going to find is a bunch of rice and beans."

You were the first one that we couldn't just dismiss as, "Nobody really liked him anyways" like we had the luxury to do with A-Rod, Clemens, Bonds and Sosa. You were the biggest man in the world, with a personality larger than life. And with the leak of a report, you quickly became one of the smallest. I mean, David Ortiz, a cheater?

Remember all of the things you said about steroids? "If I test positive using any kind of banned substance I'm going to disrespect the game, my family, my fans and everybody. And I don't want to face the situation, so I won't use it. I'm sure everybody is on the same page... If you admitted you were using the stuff, don't use it any more. You know it's not good for you. You know it's not good for the game and let's move on, you know what I mean?" How can we know that the 2004 series was honest? What about the 2007 one?

You kept telling us how you weren't juicing if you could help it, yet this report shows otherwise. Mr. Ortiz, the only thing that people disrespect more than cheaters are liars. Please, tell the truth about everything. If you did juice, tell us. If you didn't juice, give us the truth. All you're saying for now is, "Based on the way I have lived my life, I am surprised to learn I tested positive." We're all surprised that you tested positive, David. If you're genuinely surprised, then you're saying that you didn't go on 'roids. If this ends up true, you'll be cornered in numerous amounts of your own lies. All we can ask for at the moment is the truth.

But me? I'm just hoping that it's all a big misunderstanding. I want to believe that you never juiced; I found that my first inclination was to assume the best. I mean, you're David Ortiz, you'd never do something like that! Once the details come out, if we end up getting a confession from you, I will obviously be very disappointed. I'm already disappointed. I mean, my hero's legacy is shaken, tarnished. I need to start patterning my hitting after different players. Albert Pujols. Ryan Howard. Evan Longoria. For sure, they're not juicing, right? Right?

It sucks, Mr. Ortiz. We don't know what honesty is anymore. Watching the man who in my eyes was the unshakable in the steroid situation shaken leaves my confidence in shambles. I loved watching you play while it lasted, David. I imitated your swing for fun with my buddies all of the time, even if you were a lefty and I was righthanded. Heck, at 14, I still do. You brought great joy and a great personality to baseball that was, I repeat, larger than life.Now we need to know if it was honest or not.

And isn't it a shame that we need to say that?

--Moose

The Filler At The Beginning Of August

2009-08-05T11:37:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

So, it's August. Whoop de do. That means that absolutely nothing is happening in the basketball universe right now, so I'm going to have to take a break from the hoops mania at the moment and focus on other stuff, because this site is in dire need of new material that will be commented on. That is obviously more interesting then the NBA in August. Hopefully. Because the NBA in August does this to me:

Those aren't my glasses, but I like 'em. Kind of. Darker lenses would be nice. Anyways, on to the first topic...

FOOTBALL season is almost here, and everytime I hear the "NFL On CBS" music (you know the tune) I get all pumped up and excited. I'll be trekking down to the NE Patriots training camp sometime this week, I think...or before camp is over, anyways. Pumped up for the season, our big addition has been Fred Taylor...if Maroney stays healthy (I have no faith that he will) we will have close to the best running game in the NFL.

And, with NFL season comes fantasy football! And, since nobody's drafted yet and they don't know who the choices are or all of that stuff, the most exciting part of it is picking the name. I settled with "Ocho Cinco En Fuego" after considering "ConVickted", "Salt-N-Culpepper" and "Tatupu Platter". Thoughts? I just had to give the Chad Ochocino nod. Changing his name...that's faithful to your legacy. Or ego. Make your pick.

Anyways, some laughs from Nick Swardson and David Spade...

Speaking of David Spade, him, Adam Sandler, Chris Rock and Rob Schneider are all filming a move in the North Shore of Massachusetts, right outside of Boston...and some cool stuff has happened since then. Last month, I was walking in a mall with some of my friends and Adam Sandler walked by. I was like, "Whoah, that was Adam Sandler" so I ran back, shook his hand, told him how much I loved his movies, and he was like, "Thanks, dude!" It was cool. The Waterboy and Happy Gilmore are also two of the funniest movies of all time. Not one and two, but they're in the top 50 or so.

You guys love the music, so I'm gonna throw some ill remixes out here. Biggie, Bob Marley, 2Pac, Eazy-E. Need I say more? And that's not all. Take it in.

Anyways, that's all for now. What else is there at the beginning of August? One last thing: Which hat looks better? This one? This one? Or this one?

Be easy.

--Moose

R.I.PEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

2009-07-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

That is the Emeka i knew last season. Not the 'Whats a Oka-for' one the media wanted you to know. Good bye old friend.

Hibachi runs this town

2009-07-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

Today as I wake up I go on my favorite hip hop site, 2dopeboyz.com, and this is what I find in big bold letters, JAY Z FT. RHIANNA AND KANYE WEST-RUN THIS TOWN. I don't know if you guys dig Jay's music but I fuggin love it and seeing it truly made my day. Me and Justin were chatting about it earlier today and his status on facebook has this song in it so you know this shit is not a game. I got the song right here so please check it out. It is pure dopeness and it inspires me to go run a town right now. But I thought, Hibachi is going to run the blogosphere one day so it inspired me to blog. *Gets a nod of heads from the people reading this right now* Blueprint 3 coming out sept. 11. This album is going to be classic. check the other video out too below it....it sure made me want a girl to go get a sprite for me. hahaha

play wit it..PS:kanye rapes Jay(pause)

Live from Flowood, Mississippi.......

2009-07-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

PLAY WIT IT

Hey hey hey....it's you guys. Is it just me or is this one of the most boring summer's of recent memory? Maybe you cats are out there hooping, swimming, taking out ya lady friends, or just finishing up your high school career(wat up hurst!).I'm just bored. Yeah I play ball, I don't swim because that isn't my thing and my lady friends are somewhere nearby waiting on my call tonight. If you don't know, I will not be talking about NBA, NCAA, or high school ball the rest of the summer. The circuit is just too slow and I'm lazy and I rarely get on any hoop sites during the summer. I might get back into the groove though because of this kosta koufus fellow on slamonline. I mean BET, Hurst, and Moose are getting on this guy and I want my fair share of fun too! I'll be back on SLAM reguarly starting tomorrow but if you haven't already, hit up my twitter-twitter.com/vontaep and follow me. Shameless plugging I know but this is what boredom reaps...twitter time. Let me know if yall feeling this but I have an idea....HIBACHI TV!! I love are blog and all that we do as far as the writing and deep analysis but I believe it is time to take our grind global...I feel we should make an entirely different blog where we only post videos of the hibachi team doing anything that has to do with basketball. This could be posting highlights of your own games, doing previews for the season, getting interviews with legendary ballers from your area. I'm actually going to try and get some footage in at the Mo williams camp that is taking place about 20 minutes where I live in Jackson. Word is the "chosen one" is supposed to be a speaker at the camp. Hopefully they will let me bring my camera in and get some good shots. Let me know what you guys feel about it in the comments. It's just a thought so don't bash my head in for it lol. Well i'm kinda typing/sleeping right now so i'm going to leave you all with the music of one of my favorite groups....play wit it.

In Honor of the Number One Overall Pick

2009-07-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Blake Griffin is a fireworks display.

When you watch a game where number 32 takes the court, you know that for some people there will be excitement. And those who aren't excited can't help but appreciate it, watching a great basketball player. Much is the same with fireworks. They look great, sound great--excitement for all, even if certain people don't like seeing it very much (going with the basketball metaphor, if you're a fan of the opposing team, for example).

Griffin's game is closing in on being a complete one; there is something for every fan of every style to enjoy. Much is the same with fireworks; if you don't feel satisfied with the pyrotechnic visuals, you can't help but love the smooth pop of the explosives. There is always a buzz around Blake Griffin whenever he laces 'em up, much like when the sun sets on the 4th of July.

Explosiveness is a key term when talking about Blake's style of play. He cuts to the hoop, goes up for a stuff shot, drop steps with a combination of speed and strength that is rarely matched at any level of play. Fireworks are exactly the same because, well, they explode.

When driving to the lane, leaping for an alley-oop or popping up for a dunk, Griffin always finishes. He could be covered by one guy, two guys, three guys, whoever--you can count on the ball seeing the bottom of the net, foul or no foul. Fireworks always go out with a bang; finishing with a dazzling array of color and sound coordinations. Both finish spectacularly.

Every time you go to a fireworks display, you have expectations of it being entertaining and special to view--and it never fails to live up to them, being relatively the same every time you see it, albeit spectacular. Consistency is the word when talking about Blake Griffin--he's going to score and rebound on you, usually in a superhuman manner. Fireworks never fail to excite you; always a safe bet for success.

Which is something that Blake Griffin just might be.

--Moose

Ariza snags #1 jersey from Tmac, tells his punk ass to wear #3 instead..

2009-07-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

Well maybe that's not quite how it happened...but Ariza will be wearing #1 according to the Rockets' GM...fans though it meant the departure of Tmac, but we now have learned Tmac is changing to numero tres...

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl...kn/6526166.html

Rasheed Wallace Cornrow Sighting! UPDATED

2009-07-09T19:21:00.000-07:00

Looks like the bald-spotted one will be rockin' the 'rows this season. Fresh start, I guess. Yes, it's the offseason, and what're you going to do. Stuff is boring. When this is news, something's wrong, but....this is news. Everyone be sure to read what DP wrote down below, pay your respects. Anyways, is it just me, or does that look 'Sheed's got on his face remind you of Stephon Marbury?

Be easy.

--Moose

RIP to the realest to ever do it....

2009-07-07T22:02:00.000-07:00

I haven't been on here in a minute and I'm sorry for not putting out any quality content this summer but honestly I've just been lazy. Don't worry, I will back on my blog ish the rest of the summer and expect me not to talk that much about basketball because of course it's the offseason. Plus there isn't much for me to say besides the fact that LA is probably going to repeat and the Celtics starting five(besides rondo) might need a walker before preseason even begins. Really though I just wanted to pay my respects to the greastest entertainer that ever lived, Michael Jackson. I didn't want to view his funeral today because I felt that I couldn't take it. But I took a peak anyway and I was right...it was so emotional. From Stevie Wonder to Brooke shields to Al sharpton(yes al sharpton) to Usher to the little shaheem kid from Britian's got talent, it was an amazing memorial. I know I will never see another funeral like this in my life and just looking at Mike's life from my perspective the man was truly a world changer. I went to a conference in San Antonio last week for student leaders and I learned that we must not only change what's inside of us, but change the whole world. Michael was a living testament to that as he was always a giver. He always wanted to provide for those less fortunate and he really believed that the children are the future. I have nothing but love for Mr. Jackson and props to Moose for already giving the man his respect. I will for sure have Michael in heavy rotation in my ipod for the next couple of months, hell years for that matter. Like his brother Marlon put it, "Maybe now they will leave you alone, Michael." I truly hope so. I also learned in San antonio from one of the key speakers that people see the negative in others 7 times more than the good. People need to stop looking for the bad in Mike and see him for what he truly was, a great entertainer, great brother, awesome father, loyal friend, and a cheerful giver to the world. RIP my brother michael. play wit it.

Quick, But Thorough Thoughts

2009-07-05T07:35:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

Yes, this article is a Moose Track. Yes, the above picture is of a moose track. To customize to me it's gotta be 13", so that's wrong. 13 by 4, that's how the big feet go. And you know what big feet mean?

That's right. Stretchy socks.

So, first of all, I have found the undercover, intensely less muscular and tall clone of Mr. Dwight Howard.

You guys have probably heard Pleasure P's song, "Boyfriend #2" by now. Gotta say it's a guilty pleasure; nice stuff. But the dude looks like Howard. Anyways, on to the next quick but thorough thought. I gotta trademark that. This post is devoted to thoughts that don't take long to write about, but are actually of great (philosophical?) value.

US Soccer greatly surprised in the Confederation's Cup. Hursty, I see you. Our email conversation about this wasn't just bogus (Hurst thinks US soccer is still dunzo), but we are doing great to get back on the scene. Spain is the number one team in the world, and team USA...beat them? 2-0? Unprecedented. And, I know one thing. Jozy Altidore (19 years) is one the come-up. Future star here. Come to Aston Villa, Jozy!

Sorry about the soccer blab. I know you guys aren't huge fans of the most popular sport on earth, but this is coming from a soccer player here. I don't know much about global soccer, but I know a little bit; enough to follow it. Sorry if you're yelling at the computer in outrage. Fight me. Anyways, moving on...

The Cavaliers made a Shaquisition that can only hurt them if Shaq sucks this year, and if he does they're only losing money. Shaq says that his motto is, "A ring for the King." Let's say LeBron DOES win a ring this year with Shaq. All of the Kobe jockriders (I see you, Justin/DP) will say that LeBron can't win one without Shaq. I'm not saying that this is right of them, or I would do it if I liked Kobe, but I just think it's going to happen. Kobe fans are like that. Not you guys, Vontae or Mr. Walsh, but in general. So this is what the Cavaliers will be doing next season:

So many people are getting angry over Rubio skipping out of the NBA right now. I think he's doing it because he doesn't want to play for Minnesota. I think that he's cocky and ignorant because he doesn't know that in the draft, you're chosen by the team--you don't choose your team. That's what he's trying to do. But that's not the point I'm making here. The point is, in two years, he'll still be really young. A lot of people are forgetting that. Rubio probably looks like this a lot now.

You guys don't think I honestly look like him, do I?

Anyways, I saw Year One and Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen in theaters over the last couple of weeks. Year One was funny but a stupid movie, and Transformers was just sick. My recommendations: Wait until Year One is on DVD or Netflix or something, and go see Transformers. Will be worth it.

Rest in peace to Michael Jackson and Steve McNair. Crazy stuff has been going on lately, and my condolences go out to their respective families. In honor of MJ, let's take a time machine back...

--Moose

About Me: ?

2009-07-03T06:25:00.000-07:00

By the Long Forgotten Son: Hursty.

It's the NBA 'off-season', and generally anything we as writers and commenters discuss here will be analysed and scrutinised to the umpteenth degree somewhere else in cyberspace. That includes trades, drafts, free agents and other things.
But, there are some things that those other sites don't have information on - ME!
Now, bear with me here, it'll take a few paragraphs to detail everything to you.
I haven't been posting (or commenting!) here for a long-ass time, and for that I apologise. Still, it seems as though Moose and BET in particular have been holding things down just fine.
Blame my lack of presence on the HSC (Higher School Certificate). It's kind of like the SAT's I guess.
So, without further mumblings, some stuff you may, should, will and won't know - but now you do.
1, I'm Australian, I live in Sydney and it's the best country in the world. America only has one thing on us - the bomb. But who says we don't have it eh?
2, I'm the equivalent of a Senior here, and I'm tossing up on my Uni courses. Top 4 are Physiotherapy, Exercise Science (also known as Human Movement), Psychology and Arts.
3, I can trace my lineage back to 100 years after the Battle of Hastings (1066), and I've got around 8 different cultures in me, notably Australian, Japanese, Scottish, Chinese, French and English.
4, I'm Caucasian, but I feel like sometimes I'm part of the urbanised, African hip-hop culture. I like rap, slow jam, that kind of stuff, and I cop a bunch of crap for it at school, but it doesn't matter to me, I brush it off "you are who you are when nobody's lookin" (name the artist in the comment box).
It doesn't matter whether its a white guy like Eminem or Kweli or Nas or Drake or whoever, I appreciate lyrics, and I think thats what a lot of people don't see in 'rap' music, they hear a base beat on loop and can't 'see' past it. To me, that's sad.
Thing is, I love rock music, hardcore, electronica (guys like Deadmau5), folk, pop etc. Does this just make me alternative?
5, Uh, trying to think... hmmm. Oh! I'm travelling to England and France and a bunch of other places in Europe at some stage over the next 2 years. I have no plan and no money, but I'll figure it out. Donations are perfectly acceptable.
6, It's July holidays right now (started today) and in 5 months I'm graduating! I take modern history, ancient history, pe, general maths, advanced english, ext 1 english and ext 2 english (ext 2 is the highest in the country btw)
7, T-Mac used to be my favourite player.. seems like a long time ago since he played a healthy season. I'm an OK baller myself, but I haven't played for around 2 months. I got selected for a private schools representative team that played a few games, did ok ( last game I had 8 pts, 8 boards, 5 blocks, 3 steals, 5 assists and 1 turnover) and I've been studying since then. Of course, I could still come out of semi-retirement and destroy and one of you guys if needs be haha.
8, It's 12:30 am, and if I had a brain that functioned at more than 3.14% right now, I would be thinking of something witty and informative but it isn't, so I'm not and I didn't.
9, There is a comment box, so I'm expecting COMMENTS in it, and some questions too.
10, The generic 'good stuff *insert name here* comments are ok - but feel free to take a risk and deliver something insightful or critical. That way, I can improve, and hopefully provide you (as the reader) something more entertaining or revealing.
Stay safe and well
Peace, Hursty

To whom it may concern

2009-07-01T19:16:00.000-07:00

Hint 1: He was once known as the answer
Hint 2: No homo
Hint 3/Answer: Its Allen Iverson!!!

I dedicate this to you:

In other news, a giant worm colony was found in sewers at a shopping center in Raleigh (home of the me). If you dont believe me, watch this (you will regret not believing me):

Also since everyone loves when i get political:
Nando De Colo for Prime Minster of America
Nando De Colo for Prime Minster of America
Nando De Colo for Prime Minster of America
Nando De Colo for Prime Minster of America
Nando De Colo for Prime Minster of America

BETCATS PRODUCTIONS PRESENT: Hibachi Mock Draft

2009-06-25T06:14:00.000-07:00

I've been workin' on the railroad,
All the live long day.
I've been workin' on the railroad,
Just to pass the time away.
Don't you hear the whistle blowing?
Rise up so early in the morn.
Don't you hear the captain shouting
"Dinah, blow your horn?"
Dinah, won't you blow,
Dinah, won't you blow,
Dinah, won't you blow your horn?
Dinah, won't you blow,
Dinah, won't you blow,
Dinah, won't you blow your horn?
Someone's in the kitchen with Dinah.
Someone's in the kitchen, I know.
Someone's in the kitchen with Dinah
Strumming on the old banjo.
Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o.
Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o-o-o-o.
Fee, fie, fiddle-e-i-o.
Strumming on the old banjo.

1st Round
#1 Los Angeles Clippers - Blake Griffin
Reason why - I cant believe i even am giving a reason for this. Its safe to say that not even the Clippers could mess this one up. Who knows what Blake will turn out to be in the NBA. Count on one thing though, he will be a Clipper.

Picks 2 - 30 shall be skipped due to the fact that it could very well be anybody.

2nd Round (i am only doing the picks that i find intresting)

#31 The Sacremento Kings - Austin Daye
Reason why- Austin may very well slip out of the 1st round, but has all the tools to be a good NBA player. Being the most talented left on the board, the Kings will take him.

#32 The Washington Wizards -Jermanie Taylor
Reason Why- Taylor was a beast in College. Just because you havent heard of him doesnt mean he isnt the best guard in the 2nd round. Give him 1 year to adjust to NBA play.

#33 The Portland Trail Blazers- Victor Claver
Reason Why- The Portland Trail Blazers want to look like the Spainish National Team. Other than that, no reason, beside the fact that Claver is gonna be a legit NBA player.

#34 The Denver Nuggets- Josh Heytvelt
Reason Why- Fits all of Denvers' needs. 2nd round pick with 1st round talent.

#35 The Detroit Pistons- I dont care
Reason Why- Detroit is such a mess, their 2nd round picks wouldnt be having a impact on this team, look for them to be out of the leauge in a few years.

#36 The Memphis Grizzlies- DeMarre Carrol
Reason why- He is good, the Grizzlies dont really need anything, just a random pick

#37 The San Antonio Spurs - Nick Calathes
Reason why- The Spurs need a 3rd point guard, who can double as being their 2nd. Parker gets injured so much, do you really trust Roger Mason to lone wolf the PG postion?

#38 The Portland Trail Blazers - Sergii Gladyr
Reason why- Joins the rest of Portlands' European talent. Marinates overseas for a couple years then comes to the states and makes a impact. Watch for this guy to show up in 2-3 years (if picked here) and turn some heads.

#39 The Detroit Pistons - see pick #35.

#40 The Charlotte Bobcats - Dionte Christmas
Reason why- honestly, i doubt Chritsmas will be here, but i want him on the Bobcats. We need a scorer, Terrence Williams is someone who can do everything, but is not a pure scorer. Christmas is.

#41 The Milwaukee Bucks - Jodie Meeks
Reason why - With Micheal Redd wearing a suit more during a typical NBA season then a Bucks jersey, Milwaukee must act. So they will take Meeks.

#42 The Los Angles Lakers - Danny Green
Reason why- insurance if Ariza doesnt come back. Give Danny 4 years, he will be just as good.

#43 The Miami Heat - Patty Mills
Reason why- Ricky Rubio aint walking through that door.

#44 The Detroit Pistons - reference pick #39

#45 The Minnesota Timberwolves - Darren Collison
Reason why- Already pronounced 'winners of the draft' by the mainstream media, the Wolves get another Point Guard who was well seasoned in the College game.

#46 The Cleveland Cavilers - Jeff Pendergraph
Reason why- They got Shaq, so i am guessing they will be drafting a guard with their first round pick, then getting Pendergraph here. I have no idea why Jeff isnt a top 30 pick, he is actually better then most Power Forwards i have seen in mock drafts that are going in the top 20.

#47 The Minnesota Timberwolves- Jeff Adrien
Reason why- The Wolves can always use another front court player, as injuries are always a problem in Minny. Adrien did well in the NCAA tournment this year, and that could be a clear indication he is ready for the NBA.

#48 The Phoneix Suns- Some random guy
Reason why- trying to predict what Steve Kerr is going to do is impossible. His brain is a form of absract art nobody can replicate. Why should i even bother?

#49 The Atlanta Hawks - Tyrese Rice
Reason why- The point guard slot is always a problem for the Hawks. Maybe Rice, a established college player, can be part of the solution.

#50 The Utah Jazz- Jon Brockman
Reason why- when Paul Milsap and Carlos Boozer walk out this off season, Utah will already be somewhat equipt to fill in the holes.

#51 The San Antonio Spurs- Robert Dozier
Reason why- they need a front court player, so i gave it to them. Dozier is above solid, but cannot play offense worth shit.

#52 The Indiana Pacers- Nando De Colo
Reason why- GREATEST. NAME. EVER.

#53 The San Antonio Spurs- Marcus Thorton
Reason why- Really good scorer. The Spurs get a steal, at #53 .

#54 The Charlotte Bobcats- Dante Cunningham
Reason why- Good college career, a Larry Brown player. I would be happy...

#55 The Portland Trail Blazers- Courtney Fells
Reason why- I cant let NCSUs' semi-finest not get drafted!

#56 - #60 are just wastes of time, if it is really a big deal: Chris Johnson, Leo Lyons, Sergio Llull, Welsey Matthews and Terrel Harris are yours to choose from.

Now, About Those Ray Allen Rumors...

2009-06-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

A Moose Track

I have a lot of thoughts on our beloved league from the last three to four weeks. I know that I haven't posted in a while; I'm not doing my part to keep this site alive and kicking as it can be at it's full potential. I take full responsibility for lack of posting without a good excuse. But, now, school's out for the summer (while it rains in Beantown...) and I'll have a lot more opportunity to do this kind of thing. Big ups to DJ Pretty Kitty and D. Preezy for keeping the blog in business.

First of all, there has been a lot of talk around the Hub about trading Ray Allen. Yes, trading him after two years of great service. This rumor comes with insanely mixed feelings from me, as it does to other Celtics fans. A part of me wants to say, "Why the hell would we trade Ray Allen? We love Ray, everyone loves Ray. How do you not like Ray Allen?"

But I'm not a blindly loyal fan that only looks at the fact that we love Allen and his game. I'm not a crazy Celtics fan, but a realist when it comes to hoops who knows that when you gotta do something, you gotta do something. And I think that is the case with Allen at the moment. Remember, I love having Allen on the team, his shooting is undoubtedly spectacular, and he does miracles for our court spacing.

But, Ray Allen turns 34 in less than a month. Thirty. Four. As a shooting guard that is called upon to guard Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade on a nightly basis, that is borderline prehistoric. Yes, Allen is a special case if you're talking about things like this, but we have seen Allen's play slow down noticeably over this last year. And, with the Big Three all on their way to being, well, old. If they aren't there already. We're going to have to start building around Rajon Rondo in a couple years, and this would be a big cash burden.

So I'm going to accept it if Allen's traded. But, if he has to be traded, I want it to go down like this: We trade Allen for a low lottery pick and use all the extra cash to get a big free agent. Preferably Trevor Ariza. Now, whether this will happen is obviously in question, and I'm starting to doubt it now, too. We'll see then. Whether or not Ray does get traded this summer, I'll be wishing him luck wherever he goes...or stays.

So, I thought I was due for a substantial post, so there it is. And, just because...

Be easy.

--Moose

In honor of the 2009 NBA Champions......

2009-06-18T18:31:00.000-07:00

Someone needs to keep this site flowing in the offseason! "It shall be I" said the Cat.

Do you Kobe! Funny how everyone claims Kobe wants to be 'Micheal Jordan part 2'. This is clearly shades of vintage Dennis Rodman. (Picture from Game 5 of 2004 NBA Finals)

The player with the biggest impact on the finals isnt even playing in it

2009-06-14T18:18:00.000-07:00

I still havent watched 1 mintue of LIVE NBA Finals basketball this year, and it is just well enough suiting that i will be writting about a guy who has not played 1 minute of LIVE NBA Finals basketball this year.

BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW
BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW
BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW
BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW
BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW
BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW
BRIAN COOK IS THE ONLY REASON THIS SERIES IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW

I present: Brian Cook, international man of mystery. Without this man, neither team would be where they are today.

Proof?

November 20, 2007- Brian Cook and Maurice Evans to Orlando in exchange for Trevor Ariza to the Lakers

February 19, 2009- Brian Cook traded to Houston from Orlando as part of a 3 team that got Orlando Rafer Alston.

So lets review:
Without Brian, the Lakers would not have gotten Trevor Ariza.
Without Brian, the Magic would not have gotten Rafer Alston.
Without Trevor Ariza, the Lakers would not be in the finals.
Without Rafer Alston, the Magic would not be in the finals.

Suprising? I noticed this when the finals first started, here is my take on this:

Ain't a blog post....I just feel the pain Courntey is feeling...

2009-06-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Courtney, I know how it is to miss a game winning shot. It sucks. It crashes your confidence and essentially you don't want to touch the ball at all during overtime. Your team is now down 2-0 when it could have been 1-1. Man, even twitter had you at number 1 on the trending topics...and that's a big thing my dude. Half the people in Orlando want to ring your neck out but I would ring Dwight's if I was them. Rashard...ballin. Hedo...ballin. You....ballin. Dwight...can't really say much about him. Don't hold your head down courtney. you guys have the next 3 at your magical kingdom. Redeem yourself. I guarantee a victory for you guys tomorrow and you will bounce back Lee. Just don't wake up on the wrong side of the bed tomorrow......play wit it.

And the winner is...

2009-06-04T20:55:00.000-07:00

...Kob. 40 points 8 rebounds 8 assists. And let's be real. Kobe didn't look like he wanted to win. Kobe honestly had a look on his face that just plainly stated "I have come for blood." Dude was like Ivan Drago from Rocky IV when he killed Apollo (If he dies, he dies). I know there's a lot of Bron love on 'Bachi, but DP and I agree- this was epic.

Roundup of Reaction:

Stephen A Smith (during the 3rd): Game 1 is over. Look at Van Gundy's face when Kobe scored. He's demoralized already. Even JACK is giving Kobe a bow!!!
Do ya'll see the look in Kobe's eyes??? We all need to watch this.....this sense of urgency you just don't teach. This is why he's so great

Russ Bengtson (after the game): Kobe's a winner. You can tell because he won.

Kevin Durant: See you in game 2 Superman.

That's all you gotta say. Brandon Jennings was hype. I was hype. My boy Tony Williams, a Knicks Beat Writer was hype. There were some Kobe haters that were hype. I'm knowingly a biased Kobe guy, but let's be real. That was vicious. Even Eboy can't realistically shit talk this game.