NBA Playoffs, Michael Vick, and more
At the moment, I’m on a flight en route to Los Angeles, on personal business, and looking forward to a Game 7 between the Lakers and Nuggets I believe can be astutely described as inevitable. Yet, the main thing on my mind is LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
As shocking as it is to see the Cavs down 3-1 to the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals, perhaps the most stunning part of all this is that any of us are shocked at all. Basically, when you dissect these teams, this roster, it comes down to the fact that all of us should’ve listened to Famed Rap Group, Public Enemy, who warned years ago: Don’t Believe The Hype!
So much time has been spent looking at The Chosen One – with good reason, ofcourse. Aside from his 28 points-per-game during a regular season that ended with Cleveland registering a 66-16 record, LeBron is averaging 42.3 points, 7.3 rebounds and 7.3 assists heading into Game 5 of this series. He’s scored 40-plus in three games — losing every one of those games – which really crystallizes the reality that few of us really paid rapt attention to the deficiencies of his supporting cast.
A lot was made of Mo Williams arrival from Milwaukee in the offseason, buffered by his performance during the regular season. But no one saw him shooting 32 percent for this series, essentially a no-show, exacerbated by a Game 4 guaranteed victory that never happened. Zydrunas Ilgauskas, predictably, is no match for the game’s best big-man, Dwight Howard.
Delonte West is shooting just 29 percent from three-point range. There was finally a sighting of Daniel Gibson, and we’ve barely heard from Ben Wallace or Joe Smith.
Meanwhile, Rashard Lewis and Hedo Turkoglu are hitting big shots. So has Michael Pietrus and Rafer Alston. Along with Orlando’s superior outside shooting is their superior size and length in their backcourt, giving the smaller Williams, West and Gibson absolute fits. If you’re the Cavs, you’ve got to be asking yourself, “What else can we do?”
LeBron scores over 40. The Cavs led for most of the game. They outrebound the Magic. And still lost.
Gibson, himself, reportedly put it best when he said: “I can say we didn’t anticipate ever being in this position.”
We all heard LeBron say, “I still believe we’ll be ready. I know I’ll be ready,” for Game 5 tonight, but what else is he suppose to say?
Pay no attention to him. James can only speak for himself.
Pay attention, instead, to Williams following their loss in Game 4.
First, Williams stood on the court looking shell-shocked. Then he was interviewed in the post-game locker room by TNT, barely able to utter a word out of his mouth for nearly a minute.
Williams looked defeated. Sounded defeated.
Perhaps, because he’s already defeated.
Cleveland can still resurrect themselves. With James in front of that crowd, anything can happen for one game.
But Game 6 in Orlando must follow if that happens. The way things are looking, I sincerely doubt there will be a Game 7.
THE VICK SAGA:
Michael Vick needs to be left alone. I think I’m going to puke if I hear anyone else talk about how he needs to display contrition. Yes! That includes NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, a man who should be liked and respected a great deal.
I totally understand his focus on protecting and preserving the image of the NFL. I can’t blame him one bit, considering the bevy of arrest idiotic players garnered in recent memory. But Goodell needs to understand this isn’t some public-relations issue for Vick. This is real life.
The man did more than a year in Federal Prison. Vick lost out on a $130-million contract. He’s paid his debt to society, and then some.
Now it’s time to leave him alone.
By Goodell, or anyone else for that matter, continuing to pound the proverbial pavement on this issue, it either shows their alarming lack of compassion or their duplicitious ways.
Anyone with sense knows the latter primarily involves catering to PETA and other Animal Rights Activists groups, all of who rarely fail to exhibit whatever influence they have to bring attention to issues involving Animal Abuse. The question remains, however: When is enough…Enough?
When Michael Vick finds someone to donate significant dollars to one of these groups on his behalf, until he’s able to do so, himself? When the NFL doles out a few more bucks? At some point, these are the questions that need to be asked.
No other conclusion can be drawn when murderers, rapists, child abusers and the like are given second chances – after harming or eliminating human life – but Vick still has his shot at a second chance dangling in the wind because of doing the same to Dogs!!!
Are Dogs more important than human beings, now? It isn’t a popular question, to be sure. But under the circumstances, such a question at least warrants inquiry.
Vick deserved to be punished. No argument here. I’ve repeatedly called him the worse Math Student in American History – sacrificing potentially $130-million in earnings for a few thousand on dog fighting. That level of stupidity, alone, warrants a harsh rebuke.
But again, Vick has paid his debt to society. His life is in shambles. There comes a time when compassion must kick in and the focus must be on are own decency, not Vick’s.
The time is now for Vick to be allowed to make a honest living once again.
Leave this man alone and let him play NFL football again.
OTHER TIDBITS:
I’ve heard a lot of things during this NBA season, but two things I don’t want to hear any longer:
LeBron James shouldn’t be MVP and…
Stan Van Gundy is not a good coach.
Both accusations are utter nonsense. Not even worth discussing any longer.
I never thought I’d love anything more than General Hospital, but I’ve changed my mind. “24” has been the best show on television the last three years, and nothing’s changed now.
Nice to see Alex Rodriguez smacking those home runs, catapulting the Yankees to a first-place tie with the Red Sox heading into Thursday night. But I asked it before and I’ll ask it again: If A-Rod is going to cheat by using Steroids, why the hell doesn’t he use it in October?
April-thru-September means nothing to me where he’s concerned.
Loved seeing my man, Floyd Mayweather Jr. go at it with Brian Kenny on ESPN last week. Pretty Boy Floyd is still the best in the business, as far as I’m concerned. He’ll beat Marquez, then he’ll beat Pacquaio, too. But Kenny is not the one to mess with.
Aside from being a great host for Sportscenter, a great interviewer and an all-around great guy, the man knows his boxing.
Mayweather should know better. Even if Kenny never laced gloves, as Mayweather repeatedly pointed out.
I can’t believe how many followers I’ve built on Twitter. To think, the only reason I got the damn account in the first place is because my sisters and my nephew encouraged me to do so.
Ditto for Facebook. Oh well!
I’m still proud of my website more than anything else, though. It’s kind of Fly….if I can say so, myself.
Once again, Stephen A steps out with an honest and original thought. I agree 100%. Vick has paid the price already. I don’t agree with what he did, but I agree that he has paid and it is only just to move on. I pray the Vick can turn things around and contribute to society in a positive way. It is not constructive to keep kicking a man while he’s down. We all make mistakes, and I won’t be the first to cast a stone at Mike Vick. I applaud Stephen A for commenting on this matter.
Thanks stephen A. I have been trying to get someone to answer the question, are dogs more important than humans. This is now going overboard all the pilling on vick.Question for you, I know it is early but how or who do the lakers keep this off season? Ariza,odom,farmar etc. 5 total free agents I am a lakers fan and I am WORRIED!!! WHAT SAY YOU???
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From SAS: Keep Ariza and Farmer. Odom? Depends on how much he’ll cost and how he does in the Finals. If he sells out again, let’em go. Especially after ESPN revealed all that damn candy he eats on a day-to-day basis. No wonder he’s so sporadic. Probably on a Sugar-High half the time.
I agree with you
Vick did his time let him play
Re: twitter
I follow you because I like your directives and your in your face attitude with any player. Sometimes I am afraid for you. I believe all the attitude comes because you want to bring out the best in others. (I believe).
Keep setting standards and I will continue to follow.
Pray for M. Vick.
LOL Gail.
Chicago, Windy City
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From SAS: Thank you, Gail. You hit the nail right on the head. I don’t ever wish failure for anyone. But sometimes people need to be pushed to be all they can be. Everyone’s not self-motivators.
man, it has to be the best feeling to be able to freely express your opinion and have people listening all the time haha. I totally agree on teh vick issue and im a pitbull advocate. One thing i want your opinion on is Tracy McGrady, I think that hsi addition next year will give the Rockets the missing piece. Everyone else says they need to trade him, what do you think?
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From SAS: Keep T-Mac. He’s entering the last year of his deal, has a lot to prove, and has even more pressure on him now that Houston advanced past the first round without him. Since he’s never been out of the first round, he’s smart enough to know if the Rockets don’t advance next season it’ll all be on him. He won’t let that happen. Houston should keep him. He might help take them to the Finals if Yao stays healthy.
I agree with everything in this blog. It is crazy that Cleveland is down 3-1, but I never thought they’d that overmatched against Orlando. I was thinking Boston would have been a better matchup. It looks to me that Orlando has a great chance of taking their first NBA championship. Also the Mike Vick saga is irritation in its fullest. I think people are in lots of ways evil and selfish. Thats the only reason they still ridicule a man who has paid his “tremendous” debt to society. Peta, and the other animal rights agencies still haven’t investigated the case about the 12 race horses that were found dead. That isn’t important as fighting dogs I guess. Makes you think
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From SAS: Nothing to think about, Shaun. Vick is the poster child, the guy who brings they the attention they covet. Vick? Or 12 horses? Which would you pick if you were Peta?
stephen a good stuff. I am still mad you don’t answer me on twitter you be answering them corny cats lol . I am proud of how you have evolved been watchin you on espn for a minute. keep it up. I think lebron can do it we will see but like i said on ur twitter your boy on espn chris(i forgot his last name the light skinned dude) made a bold comment about 4 years ago . He said lebron would win 2 or 3 titles int he next 5 years. well lebron you better start this year.. hoping you will call my show so i can get that interview soldier
good stuff
heaven hollywood
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From SAS: Thanks for the email, my man. The biggest reason I can’t answer everyone on Twitter is because you literally have to scroll to the email, type in comments, send, scroll all the way back down and go to the next. That stuff gives me a headache. I try to respond as much as I can, but this is the best place to catch me. It’s always hard. I know, because I have a lot to do. But I really do try to communicate.
STEPHEN WAS GOOD MY MAN ILL B DA FIRST 2 COMMENT -SEE I TOLD U I WAS YA BIGGEST FAN LOL BUT NA ABOUT DA KING HE DEF WAS DA MVP N YOUR RIGHT STAN VAN IS A HELL OF A COACH SO PEOPLE NEED TO STOP CRITICIZEN HIM DAMN DA MANS PROVEN N HES FUNNY ASS HECK 2-N MO WILLIAMS IS A FAKE BE REAL STEVEY MO WILLIAMS IS SUBPAR LEBRON MADE HIM LOOK DAT GOOD EVEN IF U DO LIKE MO U CANT HONESTLY TELL ME U WOULD WANT HIM DECIDENG ANYTHING 4 U DA GUY IS A FAKE N BE CAREFUL CAUSE IF DA CAVS DONT GET A RING DAT MIGHT JUST PUSH LEBRON RIGHT DOWN TO NEW YORK =I NO U CANT WAIT -I CANT EITHER PEACE HOMEY!!!!!!!!!!FROM ANGEL WATERBURY CT!!!
A quick question for you.
Why is this the last chance for Kobe to win a championship with LA
ok stephen A since you seem to be the one that tells the truth never really straddles the fence i want to ask you, your opinion. I have been a laker fan since magic johnsons first game. I have a friend who is the biggest kobe hater on the planet, he is always saying he doesnt like kobe because he is arrogant,he doesnt respect the legends, he doesn’t respect jordan, says that kobe is just pretty good, says lebron is better.. when i have heard numberous people say that although nobody is jordan kobe is the closest mentally and attitude and gamewise to jordan as we will ever see. i heard jon barry say that as well as jeff van gundy. I know you know kobe pretty well and give me your intake on this i would love ot hear this and forward this email to this clown freind of mine. In your opinion about kobe and he also said those rings are shaqs rings and shaq would have won them without kobe. Thanks bro
heaven hollywood
i agree. Vick did his time. He doesnt need oprah or larry king or anyone else. In this era when you rub the wrong people a wrong way you will never be forgiven no matter how many times you say your sorry. I am far away from being a Vick fan and i dont want him as the qb for the Bills [my team] just because i believe he wont be able to do it anymore but please Michael dont go on a I am sorry tour because you cant win. Ask Pete Rose.
Dogs appear to have won the battle between man and beast. I follow the news all over the country and no one ever protests or call for justice when innocent humans are hurt and or killed. What about some outcry for the hungry working people, homeless and those who can’t afford health care. Vick is being convicted all over again, by those who don’t have the right to do so. America has it twisted. A Magic and Laker series looks good to me. Howard will have his way with Gasol.
In agreement except two things
1. Floyd hasn’t been beaten but he’s *incredibly* selective in who he fights. I’d love to hear how you are so confident he can topple Manny.
2. The Wire might be disqualified since you said the last three years but it tops 24 all the way!
GO KNICKS!!!!!
I agree with your comments on Michael Vick. Peta and all those animal groups THINK he owe them something and he don’t. Roger Godell is a racist; the white boy cutting up crack in his car with his credit card and gets a slap on the wrist. Vick has done his time, paid his fines, yet still must jump through hoops. As Kobe’s #1 fan, I can say Lebron had a great season and deserved the MVP. He is playing at the highest level he can this far into the season. The problem is his teammates don’t seem as hungry as he is; and yes Mo Williams did look defeated in that interview. I though he was going to cry. I can’t even imagine you watching General Hospital…..LOL!!! If the Lakers handle their business, you won’t see them play Sunday. Safe travels….
Everyone is talking about Lebrons teammates.. and its true they haven’t showed up.. Well until tonite.. but all games have been pretty tight down the stretch.. for the taking by “KING JAMES”, People harp on his scoring and stats. The fact is its not how much you score, and how many other tangible stats you put up. Its when and how you score, and put up those lofty stats. Lebron is a very good player but he is not closing these games out.. and having the ball for 18 seconds of the shot clock in your hands doesnt put anyone in rhythmn….im just sayin
I’m watching the Cavs game right now. They came out on fire but just like my Mavs they can’t hold a lead. Lebron needs help. We have to give Stan his props.He is a good coach. Michael Vick should be left alone. He was not a locker room problem and yes he should’ve been punished. At the end of the day it’s dogs. I know people who served a year for molesting a kid and now their out and enjoying themeselves. The kid is scarred for life. Always keep it real Stephen thats what we like.
Your passion and approach is refreshing, man. I am a huge fan of your thought-provoking and often times in your face delivery. I agree 100% with you on the look of the website. It is kinda fresh!
Marlimar, B-more
Once again you speak the truth. I love the website. Will you be giving relationship advice on your site as well?
Do you feel that the Magic are beating the Cavs or are they beating themselves? The Cavs have had an opportunity to win every game in this series. They’ve led in every game (even the one that’s going on now). They play well enough to be successful in the 1st half then instead of getting better, they regress come 2nd half. They stop moving and start isolating guys. Ultimately, if (or when) they lose this series should the Cavs be kicking themselves?
I truly miss seeing you on tv. I am a 43 yr old female who loves sports.I love the Lakers but PLEASE go ask them when are they going to play HARD for an entire game.Back in the day, everyone played hard ALL the time.Why do you think things have changed so much?I say ease up on the amount of $ they receive.Many are not earning their money.Keep doing what you are doing my brother.
Debbie
Memphis TN
Michael Vick is guilty of being young with alot of money and an Ego the size of the earth. With that said, it is absolutely sickening that these so-called Animal Lovers are asking for Vick to pay an even higher price. How come these animal lovers are out of shape about Vick but keep their Hypocritical Mouths Shut while Palin is hunting down and dressing Moose. Think about it, when was the last time you’ve seen a Moose? A Moose is a million times more valuable than a dog, you come across a dog everyday. Palin is up their in Alaska killing Bullwinkle and No One says a Damn Thing! Making Moose Chili??!! WTF!!!
That’s because when it comes to addressing Power most of us are cowards. But its easy to kick a man when he’s down. You’ve got these sportsman as they call themselves throughout the World killing Deer, Lions, Tigers, Elephants, and its tolerated. As Michael Irvin said “Cover it with the same intensity”
Vick was wrong but the punishment far outweighs the crime. We have soldiers right now murdering children and women in Iraq and Afghanistan but that is tolerated, because it is War. So taking a human life is OK, because were killing an Enemy, but if you kill a dog then you are a demon. So, is a dogs life more of value than a human one? Where is the sense in all of this? It is truly disgusting and outrageous.
I wonder if one of the Manning Boys were involved in that situation would it play-out the same?
I truly agree with you Mr. Smith, Michael has done his time and paid his debt to society.He needs to be left alone. People have committed worse crimes. It’s amazing that our society somehow view dogs as more important than humans.
i agree they need to leave Vick alone. Leonard little killed a woman drunk driving and still was able to play football again and then he was caught drunk driving again, but no one talks about that like they talk about Vick. Yeah he had all the fame and money, and he screwed all that up, but he deserves a second chance Leonard Little got his and he killed someone’s mother/wife. So if you saw a dog and a human about to get hit by a car which one would you try to save. It seems like an easy question, but to those people that says Vick doesnt deserve a second chance would go save the dog instead of the human. What kind of world are we living in today? If A-Rod was going to cheat at least have a ring to show for it, but he doesnt even have that so why cheat in the first place if you’re not going to show up in October. He tainted his career and he doesnt have a ring to show for it he is what I call a DF (Damn Fool). Once again Stephen A. great stuff from you keep writing and I will keep reading.
Stephen,
I agree with you on Mike Vick, this thing has been blown way out of portion. The man never should have went to jail.
When I think of all the folks who shoot animals everyday just for fun or to hang on their walls for bragging rights; I still can’t understand why Vick spent any time in prison. Go figure!
Even God had to kill a lamb so that Adam and Eve could cover their nakedness. Animals die everyday so that we can live.
Oh yeah, in answer to your comment about why MJ didnt do it for me, lets put it this way, it takes a special man to get my attention if its in sports, music, or the arts.
Example:
Luther or Marvin – for me Marvin hands down, dont know anybody who can imitate that voice yet. Many have imitated Luther.
Kobe/Lebron/MJ – for me Kobe, straight up assassin, the man loves the game, would play it for free if he had too.
99% of the players in the NBA are talented and most play for the life style it offers, Kobe, the top 1%, would play it for free, he loves the game that much, its in his blood.
Gladys/Aretha – for me Gladys even in her old age she sounds like she did when she was 20, now Aretha can sing dont get me wrong I love her voice however Gladys just is..
Now do you understand my stance? I know most of the planet would say MJ hands down, however I never follw the majority.
Have a pleasant Day!
I will send a prayer for you that you get what you desire in having your own talk show. Remember this, if He put the deisre in you He will get it to you. He moves in his time.
Just be ready because when He opens the door you gotta run in.
Deb
Sup My brother, haven’t seen you on the tube and thats a shame. First its too bad for Kobe that heart isn’t contagious, hes shown enough for ten. The Bench Mob should get L*&@#d can’t say that being PC and all, lol. They’re playin’ like “Cancun Cancun…” was the gameplan. As far as who to keep, Ariza more than earned his check, plus Shannon B. is a beast off the bench (I’d start him!!) Farmar is not confident and that position demands it. See Ya! Odum is/was and will be an “enigma wrapped in a mystery” Trade him before someone else figures it out.
Get ready for Orlando and Lakers.
Anyone notice how many close calls Lebron gets esp against Howard? If Kobe was getting star treatment from the refs (season and playoffs)it would’ve changed Sterns MVP mandate.Now he’s whats for dinner!! Late….
Mr. Smith…
It’s you friend Diamond again. I’m not even going to pretend to know anything about Lebron or Kobe, but I will try to tackle the Michael Vick issue. We are owners of a rescued pit bull. My Mom and Dad got her for me from our local animal shelter about four years ago when I was 12. We were told Candice (my dog) was used as a “bait dog”. She has brought so much joy to my life. While I absolutely detest what Michael Vick has done, he has served his time and ,as far as I can see, is complying with the terms of his release. In my opinion Michael Vick’s biggest crime was being Michael Vick, The Atlanta Falcon’s quarterback instead of Michael Vick who lives just down the street. Question: Would the Mannings (Peyton or Eli) or Tom Brady have recieved such harsh sentences under the same circumstances??? As for PETA, where were they when the two-legged dogs were using the four-legged dogs as weapons of terror against our grandparents ,or in my case, great grandparents?
Another great piece Stephen.A. I’m thinking that Lebron will take that series to 3-3 because he can feel that finals in his grasp. And his teammates are choking in this series. Mo “Disappear” Williams and Delonte “Cant Make A shot” WEST are supposed to be the key kick out guys when Lebron is in trouble with defenders. Stephen do you think it is more of the Cavs choking or are the Magic the better team??
And the M.Vick situation needs to die down and get back in the NFL. He deserves a second chance just like Tyson (sorry for his loss) Muhammed Ali, Ray Lewis, A-Rod, Little,Kobe and etc. Goodell needs to stop being such a har head and let him back to being one of the most talented stars on the gridiron
Holla back at yo boy
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From SAS: Hey Jeremy, I think the Cavs are just tailor-made for the Magic. As for Vick, I don’t need to say anything else. Let the man play ball.
You’re right about 24! Love JB. Did you watch The Unit? I will miss the other JB – Jonas Blane. He was one of those brothas that should be cloned, intelligent and fearless. Unfortunately it wasn’t renewed but it was intense and the characters believable, awesome cast, occasionally they strayed on a few episodes, I’m guessing because of behind the scenes changes, but overall, very, very good quality adult show. A shame CBS didn’t support it.
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From SAS: Only watched the Unit once, Tgirl. But everyone I know loved the show.
@Anthony Johnson:
I agree. Houston will have the missing piece. If they can come back with a healthy T-Mac, they’d have to be a favorite for the finals. They’ll be on fire. T-Mac is a proud man, and I think he won’t rest next year. It’s finals or bust for him.
Wasup Stephen A,
Totally agree with you son! It seems that America forgave Brittney Spears and her neglect to her two human children quicker, than Vick and the dog situation. America has a deep cynical attitude for African-Americans who are guilty of such mistakes made in the public eye. Examples- Tyson, Vick, Bonds and Abdul-Rauf. But, why doesn’t Marv Albert, Woody Allen, Imus, or even Phelps get treated with the same unforgiving cynicism? I think until American society can be honest enough to address these distinctions in race, the unspoken lynch mobb hunt for African Americans in vulnerable positions will continue in the disguise of “moral citizenz” in contempt.
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From SAS: RAcial issues will be addressed even less in the near future, Ish. Why? Because we have a Black President. A perfect excuse for the world to say: “Racism? What Racism?”
Stephen A,
I agree with you regarding Michael Vick and his new life after incarceration. Let the man be now, he’s paid his debt to society. Should he EVEN be given a chance to play football again is solely up to Commissioner Goodell and the next team that decides to trade for him. One thing is certain, this is a tragic story twofold; the destruction of innocent creatures for the pleasure of a foolish millionaire and now the life of a once foolish millionaire, now working for $10 an hour. Talking about having a slice of humble pie…he won’t be able to finish this slice.
@Demond Scriven Sr.:
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I believe this is Kobe’s last chance because if they don’t win, changes will be made. Also, LeBron is coming. Melo is coming. And Kobe isn’t getting any younger. Father Time knocks on all of our doors. Kobe is great, but he’s not getting any younger, period. That’s just the bottom line.
@Keith:
1.) I just believe Floyd is bigger and stronger than Manny, plus he’s elusive. He won’t be as easy to hit as Hatton. Floyd’s a winner. His best performances are saved for his biggest contests, when people wonder whether he’s going to win or not.
@Ish K.: No doubt.
In LA?! Hit me up.
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From SAS: Who is this? Maverick??? I’m here until tomorrow.
Im so glad the Cavs are out of it. I was so tired of ESPN and the world on LeBron’s Nuts. Until he gets a ring( if he ever does) He should not be in the same breath as Kobe.
Glad your doing your thing though… Send shout outs whereever you land.
Lets move to A real Final. lakers/Magic- I do think Kobe is going to get his ring without Shaq, then that will quiet critics.
Why cant Lebron shake hands with the magic?? why cant Lebron do a post game?? Little bitter with him, because every channel you turn to its all about Lebron… and. he’s watching the finals on TV.
Going to miss you and Skip bayless go at it.. Not for Skip, except when he is bashing Lebron.
How about our Yankees? Glad we didnt scoop up Manny, but I do think if Wang can come correct, and Throw joba in the middle innings.. we should win the East. Get Xavier back in the rotation.. WOW!
Back to NBA- Match-up problems.. throw out this year series, Lakers had Ramonovich, no Shannon Brown, and Magic had Jameer.
Who is going to match up with Gasol? Howard.. foul trouble. Hedo.. thats fine, but Thats leaving Kobe on the perimeter, and if you move Rashard over, then you have Odom. Again the way the Lakers put it to the Nuggets in game 6.. “Quite Frankly” I see the Lakers winning 1 and 2.. Magic winning 3 , Lakers winning 4, Magic winning 5, and lakers closing it out in 6
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From SAS: LeBron was a disappointment, Shawn. He should’ve shaken hands with Orlando afterward. And if he wasn’t going, don’t turn around and justify it by saying that’s not what you do when someone just beat you up. It happens with nearly everyone else in the NBA, plus boxing, MMA, Hockey, etc. No excuses. Just weak on his part, although I do sympathize with him since his teammates didn’t show up.
As for the Yankees, I expect them to go to the WS, but who am I? A Yankee Fan. What else am I suppose to say?
As for Manny, he’s a new-fool. Someone who’d better have the decency not to show up to All-Star weekend, assuming the public is idiotic enough to select him.
I see the Lakers winning the Finals in the same exact fashion.
what free 2010 free agent do you think the Cavs should go after to help Lebron out if he is going to be there.
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From SAS: Amare Stoudamire. Paired with LeBron, they’d be unstoppable. But they’ll be in NY.
I think I was the most interested in this blog for the Orlando Magic tidbits. At this point, it’s too late to speculate because the Magic have already won the Eastern Conference Series, but thank you for giving credit where credit was due. As a Magic fan, it was so irritating to see almost all the analysts count the Magic out of the series against the Cavs before it even started. Nobody seemed to pay attention to the fact that the Magic had the better record throughout the regular season against the Cavs. Also ignored was the the fact that — biases aside — the Magic were simply the better suited all-around team. LeBron James — commanding player that he is — is still just one single person. It should have been evident even after LeBron put up RIDICULOUS numbers and stats in the first few games of the series yet still recorded losses for the Cavs, that the Magic were strong competitors and in it for the long haul.
It’s only my hope that my Magic — the team that has already run through the reigning NBA Champion Celtics — will get a little more respect in this Finals series against the Lakers.
In addition, I’m watching you right now on Best Damn Sports Show Period…and you’re true to form. I’ve always appreciated watching/listening to your commentaries because you don’t mince words and you tell it like it is. I’m sure lots of these athletes are great, wonderful people, super talented and some are probably great friends of yours. But the fact that you can still call a spade a spade and stay 100 when someone hasn’t lived up to their potential or expectations is so refreshing. Keep up the good work!
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From SAS: Damn, playmaker. That was pretty good. But I still believe the last part was a bit harsh. LeBron is NOT a failure. He averaged 38.5 points in the series. He’s only one person. He deserves better than that from you. But that reel was still pretty damn good. You should become a producer
@twinsandyb: I hope he gets some help i like Lebron even though he didnt shake the hands of the magic. i hope that doesnt hurt his reputation because he didnt do so. But Amare and Lebron together what a real duo. So you think Lebron and Amare and leaving Cavs and Suns. Amare isnt going to have anybody to play with in phoenix if he stays Nash, Shaq, Hill are at the end of their careers so i think he is going to leave.
I hope he gets some help i like Lebron even though he didnt shake the hands of the magic. i hope that doesnt hurt his reputation because he didnt do so. But Amare and Lebron together what a real duo. So you think Lebron and Amare and leaving Cavs and Suns. Amare isnt going to have anybody to play with in phoenix if he stays Nash, Shaq, Hill are at the end of their careers so i think he is going to leave.
I’m so unbelievably freaking sick of hearing about how people want proof on how sorry Vick is for what he’s done. He has served his time, people. Move along now and let him do the same. I’m sympathetic to animal rights group and all, but it’s hard when they get into excessive attention whoring(can I say that here?) like this. I totally agree with what you said, when IS enough, enough.
Well, the Cavs are gone and the Magic are moving on to the finals. Really glad I didn’t quit my day job to become a psychic, because I didn’t see that coming. Felt bad for Lebron though. What a way to go. But I wish he would have displayed better sportsmanship.
I’m going with the Magic to win it all. I got this feeling that they aren’t going to go away. Much as I relish a Laker victory, I’m not sure I’ll see that superior and elite Laker squad that played in game 6 a few nights ago. Game 1 will tell me that, then I may change my mind.
Love your blog and follow you as much as I can. Love how you always give the straight skinny. No BS and no coddling. Much respect. Hurry and get back on tv, radio…something.
luv ya stephen!!! we miss yah!
I agree with everything u said except for 1. Pacquiao will beat Marquez or Mayweather anytime anywhere. Go Manny!
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From SAS: Pacquaio’s already beaten Marquez. But he won’t be Mayweather. I can’t conceive that. Floyd is too great, especially in big moments. And he knows everyone wants Pacquaio to win, wishing he’ll get knocked out in the process. He’s too proud, my man. Can’t see it happening. But it will be a great fight. And you know I will be there.
you should take Skip Bayless’s spot. even though he is funny going against everything, atleast you keep it real. I can only assume ESPN not trying to give a brother his chips correctly, and trying to lowball.. been there.. done that, and bounced as well. Why not jump to TNT and take the 3rd wheel with Eddie/chuck and kenny.. you know Barkley will screw up soon.
Question.. cant skip to 2010. looking at 2009.. you think it is realistic for the Lakers to add Artest or Boozer, or not enough money?
Brown/farmar Kobe Artest/boozer Gasol and Bynum- WOW
And what about Iverson? DOes he have a home?
Rasheed to the Cavs? Thats what the word is
Quest
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From SAS: Appreciate the love, Shawn. Would love to go to TNT and play that 3rd wheel. But that’s their call As for the Lakers, Boozer’s not reasonable because he’ll cost too much money. They may be able to get Artest, but who knows. As for Rasheed, Cleveland is definitely possible, but he’d prefer to play in a warm-weathered city.
Hey Stephen A. What’s good big homie? I’ve sat back and watched these playoffs from series to series without wavering enthusiasm for any particular series or team. I am an adopted Heat fan having moved to Miami after being born and raised in a non-NBA town, but every game has been exciting and intense. These are probably the most intense playoffs I can remember since the late 80’s when the Pistons won their two championships. With that said, I found LeBron’s exit somewhat odd. I am a former college athlete and am the type who hates losing more than I love winning. I can understand the anger, frustration, and flat out rage at the very thought of losing anything from checkers to a game of horse. However, I’ve always kept it in perspective and have never disrespected my opponent AFTER the game. BEFORE and DURING were different circumstances because I was always trying to get an edge mentally on those who I knew had an edge physically. The thing that bothered me was not that he didn’t shake hands or his press conference where he was unapologetic. It was the very fact that, had he won, he would’ve gone over to Howard or whomever and shook hands. All I ask is that you keep it consistent. If you’re not gonna shake after a loss then hit the locker room after just as fast after a win. Don’t talk to the media after a win as well. Keep it consistent. What this showed me was a major chink in the character of this young kid. It made me question whether he is actually built to handle adversity. We all understand that bravery comes from being afraid and doing it anyway. Not entering the situation without fear. I pull for the kid because I am an Ohio native, but it stops there. I, being from Cincinnati cannot endorse any kind of Cleveland sports championship with anything but contempt. LOL Seriously, somebody needs to pull this young fellow aside and just sit him down and make sure he understands. With great gifts come great responsibilty. How you act when things are bad is who you are, not the other way around. It’s very easy to be gracious when things are going your way but a champion is not a real champion until they face some sort of adversity and learn from it and get better. My next thought is the sick viral video of the “alleged rape victim” of Kobe Bryant fresstyling about Kobe Bryant. This female is clearly deranged and needs help.
I just hope that this doesn’t affect Kobe in some sort of way. If I’m correct, she dropped the charges and she got paid. What is the deal here?
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From SAS: Check me out on the Best Damn Sports Show, Period! I’ll be on tonight, Paul, talking about that very subject with LeBron. As for Kobe’s alleged victim, I haven’t heard a thing about it. That’s not good for Kobe. Nobody needs to be reminded of that.
@Jeremy Rivera:
There was a rumor out there during the trade deadline about Shaq to Cleveland. Do you think the Cavs will revisit that deal because the way Howard destroyed Lil Z and Wallace??
I think if your the Cavs Gm you do everything you can to get Shaq to play with Lebron.. You saw what he did with my dawg D-wade .. imagine what he does with Lebron.
And how far do you see this NBA finals going. I have LA in 7
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From SAS: Shaq and Rasheed Wallace are possibilities in Cleveland next year, although Rasheed really wants to be in a warm-weathered city. The Cavs must do something because they know LeBron will be itching to leave. I see the Lakers winning in 6 games.
Just when I think all is lost in sports news, I find out Stephen A has a website!!! Really miss your clear rationale on sportscenter, on point with your critiques, especially the Mike Vick situation.
I think I was the most interested in this blog for the Orlando Magic tidbits. At this point, it’s too late to speculate because the Magic have already won the Eastern Conference Series, but thank you for giving credit where credit was due. As a Magic fan, it was so irritating to see almost all the analysts count the Magic out of the series against the Cavs before it even started. Nobody seemed to pay attention to the fact that the Magic had the better record throughout the regular season against the Cavs. Also ignored was the the fact that — biases aside — the Magic were simply the better suited all-around team. LeBron James — commanding player that he is — is still just one single person. It should have been evident even after LeBron put up RIDICULOUS numbers and stats in the first few games of the series yet still recorded losses for the Cavs, that the Magic were strong competitors and in it for the long haul.
It’s only my hope that my Magic — the team that has already run through the reigning NBA Champion Celtics — will get a little more respect in this Finals series against the Lakers.
In addition, I’m watching you right now on Best Damn Sports Show Period…and you’re true to form. I’ve always appreciated watching/listening to your commentaries because you don’t mince words and you tell it like it is. I’m sure lots of these athletes are great, wonderful people, super talented and some are probably great friends of yours. But the fact that you can still call a spade a spade and stay 100 when someone hasn’t lived up to their potential or expectations is so refreshing. Keep up the good work!
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From SAS: Thanks so much for the kind words, Alesia. Deeply appreciate it.
The Cavs are frauds so are the stats MUST READ!!!!!!!
yg24 | on 5/11/2009 at 6:06 PM | Comments: 0 | Rating: 3 I’ve been struggling to think about what my next entry, why I don’t know but its about what I’ve been sayin all year. So before the “experts” on espn figure it out I will make my case why cleveland’s record and statistics this year is nothing short of a sham wow towel. With all the talk about the western confrence being a down year because of the mid season injury bug no one talked about all the bad mishap that has plagued eastern teams in the beging of the season, for staters the Washington Wizards I know the cavs beat them like three strait years in the playoffs I KNOW…thats not what im talking about its all about the stats and the fact is that they won only 19 this year after winning 43 the year before what does that mean. That means that their are 24 wins out there that woulldnt have if they wernt banged with injury, even though toronto got hot in the end of the season they had an 8 game drop, and Detroit? There effort speaks for it self but they also left 20 wins on the board.Golden state also dropped 20 fewer games. You mix all that in a hat have your best player get as many wins as possinble with one hand and “The King” got gready huh? They are a product of a waterd down eastern confrense now you can say the cavs had a goal to be the best team and that may be true. But you cant dispute the facts no other team had a player that can take over a game with very good venince beach sharpshooters (MO,D-westI LOVE ESPN) they were in prime postion to rack up the extra wins so a 25 game jump wasnt impossible they were capable I know there not a 65 win ball club you all cand belive that, but there record againts the top teams speaks for itself. But cleveland isnt the only team that is riding fools gold teams like the Bobcats, Nets,Bucks and Knicks… what you thought you guys were a play off team… as my idol Stephen A. Smith would say…PLEASE. They all benifited from the losses all those teams were ahead of their time who benifited in the west….NO ONE and I mean NO ONE took advantage but its not there fault they couldnt because none of ther teams GM’s went and got anybody in the off or mid season because unlike the east in the west your ether a playoff team or not. We wont here next here how the Knicks or Bobcats are fighting for a playoff spot because there wont be one. Cleveland got the bulk of the wins and everyone else got what they could.
Mr. Smith (not to be confused with the other guy from hollis,ny)
Alot has been made about next years free agent market, but this years martket includes ron artest and allen iverson. where do you think they will land. Do you think Ron Artest could be going to Denver I saw him at the game the other night.hmmmmmmmm……….
2009-10 nuggets opening night starting five
F Kenyon Martin
F Carmelo Anthony
C Nene
G Ron Artest
G Chauncey Billups
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From SAS: Doubt Artest is going to Denver. Houston, LA, Cleveland are possibilities. As for Allen Iverson, I have no idea right now. He made $20.8 million last year. He’ll have to take a significant paycut this time around. How much will be primarily up to him, but it won’t be easy. And since Denver and Detroit both did well without him, he doesn’t look good. So we’ll see.
Paquiou vs. Mosely! Stephen A. As an educated boxing fan, I’d take Mosely. Bigger, Stronger, Quicker. We may not see Pacman fight Mayweather but we may see Mosely corner Floyd finally into a fight. I know De La Hoya and Hatton were bigger than Pac but neither has the polish of Mosely. He is arguably the most underrated fighter of the past 10 years. I’m calling out the upset. If I was a gambling man, I’d bet the rent money on this one, but I’m too “scarry” with my hard earned money! lol What’s your take on this and how do you see this new boxing final four tourney playing out? I see it playing out one of two ways. Mosely by KO or Pac by TKO. As a boxing fan, all I need to know is that somebody is going nite nite and you can get my sixty bucks!
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From SAS: I don’t have that level of faith in Mosely anytime he’s facing someone who actually knows how to move. As much as I loved Mosely’s destruction of Magarito, I’m equally disappointed in his performance against Miguel Cotto at MSG; I was there. Mosely’s great against anyone around his height coming right at him. He’s not good at all anymore against someone who moves. That’s just my thought. Pacquaio by decision.
Thanks for the love, on my vid Stephen
Looking forward to your next entry.. I am officially amped can’t wait till game time.
LAKERS!
I completely agree-LEAVE MiCHAEL VICK ALONE! I’m trying to understand why he has to worry about re-entering the NFL, however rather than to waste my time figuring that out I have moved on to be thankful in advance that he will be back soon enough. The last thing I heard on the news dealt with his finances and the only job he had lined up—huh? Michael Vick is a phenomenal athlete, is it me or can he use his gifts in other arenas. Am I thinking to simple when I think that parents of young athletes would pay top dollar to have Michael Vick train their children (college bound, league bound, etc?)Or perhaps help them build “their best body?” Yeah, yeah, yeah- recession- I heard about that too; but people pay for what they want to pay for, don’t they? Again, maybe I’m a simple thinker and this idea is to far fetched; but I am passed what he’s done and I am ready to move forward to what he can do and frankly I think the possibilities are endless.
You’re a fantastic person Mr. Smith; love your energy! I’m an active person and I love the passion and the art of competition in athletics across the board. I have been meaning to take the time to chime in on the Michael Vick controversy or controversies for quite some time now-I thought no time like the present. I am on twitter as RaShellaR —Thank you for your time.
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From SAS: Thank you, RaShella. I’ll keep an eye out for you on Twitter.
S.A.,
Great commentary on Vick man. I have been screaming the same perspective to my friends since dude got out. I even tried to post a question to Goodell on espn’s live blog sessions. Of course they didnt post my question ot him.
I mean how can you say the man must show genuwine remorse. Are you kidding me? He just lost 2 yrs of his life behind bars. I have 3 dogs and would never put them above a human life. With that said how the hell can Dante be drunk and kill someone and only have to serve 30 days?
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From SAS: Good point about Donte, Chris. Very good point. I’m going to mention it in my next blog and Podcast.
I’m a lover of football, just wish it was played all year round, thanks for posting such a good article. I’ll be back to read often now.
Dave
We all acknowledge what Michael Vick did was wrong, no doubt. Still, be fair. Well . . . what about chickens, cows, pigs, ducks, fish and any other animal that’s killed for food or sport? Boycott restaurants, slaughterhouses and grocery stores. Become a vegetarian. Don’t buy anything made from leather or fur. Don’t bet on a horse. Where’s the outrage? If any of these suggestions sound ridiculous . . . exactly. It’s sad that some people care more about dogs than people. I don’t see anyone out protesting about children, women or men being neglected and abused. What about the war? What about people getting murdered period? Really. Let Michael Vick move on with his life.
The animal people? Do you mean the people who protest when a dog’s teeth are pulled so that it cannot protect itself? What planet do you come from? What values do you hold dear? What God, if any, do you pray to sir? There is a day of judgement. It will come for Mr. Vick and it will come for all those who laud him.
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From SAS: Don’t you dear get all self-righteous and try to spin this as someone lauding Vick. There is absolutely nothing to laud. He financed a Dog Fighting ring. He contributed to cruelty of animals. He was dead wrong, deserved to be punished and received his comeuppance. ABSOLUTELY NO ONE IS DISPUTING THIS.
The point is…he’s paid his depth to society. The man served 18 months in a Federal Prison. He’s lost out on $130 million. Yes, he did it to himself, but this is America damnit. A land where murderers, rapist and lord knows what else get second chances. He’s out of Prison now trying to turn his life around. Give the man a chance to do it. That’s what God has taught us. So what God, if any, do YOU PRAY TO, Elayne? (Since that’s a question you wanted to throw at me?).
Vick will, indeed, have a judgement day. So will those who laud him! And so will those who condemn him, Elayne. Which means…so will you!!!
Have a nice day.
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