Cavs Pre-Game Thoughts

Below are some solid words from masug24, who is leaving for his first Cavs game of the season in a little bit.  Thanks man for helping the struggling LeBlog stay afloat.  I appreciate and anyone who wants to contribute is more than willing.  Send me what you got..reviews, insights, random crap, whatever. 

Like the Cavs motto, all for one.
 
~~~~~~~~~
I've been waiting all spring, summer and fall for the NBA season to tip off and now that it's here, I'm back in Cavs mode.  I watch all three LeBron commercials almost every day, read every word that the great Brian Windhorst writes and even scour the Cavaliers message board to see what morons most Cavs fans are.  I remember watching the Cavs at the beginning of last year, thinking to myself, "These guys are definitely playoff contenders."  After 7 games this year, I find myself wondering whether we are championship contenders.  Well, the jury is still out... I see signs of hope and I see signs of another also-ran.

Sign of Hope #1 - LeReal Answer, LeBrizzle, LeSavior, LeGod
Every single game LeBron James does something that makes my jaw drop.  After he dunked over Tim Duncan, he got this look in his eye that said to me that he knows how unstoppable he is.  When he stared down Paul Pierce before the and-1 that turned that ugly game around, he had that same look in his eye.  Needless to say, at times he plays like he is possessed and if he can stretch that into June, schedule the parade.

Sign of Also-Ran #1 - LeCan't make a free throw
LeBron has two glaring problems that could spell demise.  First, leaders of championship teams do not shoot 70% from the free throw line, especially when they lead the league in trips to the line.  No further discussion needed, just make your damn free throws.  Second, I know he's trying to get better on defense and I see the improvement, but he's not there yet.  Already, I've seen LeBron lose his man on defense multiple times every game.  I want to see that same look in his eye when he's staring down the other team's scoring threat and I just don't see it right now.

Sign of Hope #2 - Supporting Cast
On any given night, one of LeBron's supporting cast plays possessed.  You saw it in Drew Gooden throughout the preseason and the first few games of the year.  You've seen it in Sasha Pavlovich, who thankfully has taken all of David Wesley's minutes.  You even saw it in Amon Jones of all people... I mean that game against the Knicks was insane.  If we could just convince Amon that he's playing in MSG every night or heck, if he could pull out one performance like that every couple weeks, I think he'll finally prove that his contract is worth it.  Not to mention, you just know that Donyell and Varejao are due to light it up here in the near future.

Sign of Also-Ran #2 - Non-Supporting Cast
I have always been an Eric Snow supporter.  I understand what he brings to this team in terms of leadership and in the locker room.  I saw what he brought in the playoffs.  But I also see him getting schooled JCC style by every point guard he has faced.  I also see him missing layups and wide open 12 foot jumpers.  I know Dan Gibson and Shannon Brown aren't ready yet, but could they be any worse than Eric Snow?  He is officially a liability out there... put him in a suit and give him a damn clipboard.  Shannon had some jitters when he first got out there (reminded me a little bit of Luke scurrying around the court like he had no business), but I think he'll be a contributor down the road.  Oh, and please, someone light a fire under Z's ass.  Don't give me the line about adjusting to the motion offense, he just can't put the ball in the hoop when he needs to.  Let's hope his minutes stay down this year and he comes to play come playoff time.

Sign of Hope #3 - Confidence under pressure
Despite not being able to hold a lead, we have already pulled out some close games, and not entirely thanks to LeBron.  I think we've seen some inspired play down the stretch of certain game and getting used to these types of games will pay off down the road.

Sign of Also-Ran #3 - Playing down to opponents.
In the words of Jimmy from South Park, "Come on, I mean reallyguys, come on."  The Hawks?!?!  The Bobcats?!?!  The Celtics?!?!?!  The Knicks?!?!?!  These teams are all but dreaming of Greg Oden and Joakim Noah two weeks into the season and we've either lost, given up a big lead and just played down to the level of every one of these teams.  I'm writing this before I go watch LeBron hopefully tear up the Jailblazers, but if Dan Dickau and DMiles light it up, I will be livid.  This team has shown that we can beat the best at home or in hostile territory.  How about showing up to play against teams who have no business being on the same court as the Cavs.

I could go on for pages, but for now... I'm off to see the Cavs light up the Blazers like... well you know.

F MICHIGAN

Much Love

So the Cavs are playing better and it's OSU vs Michigan week so that is always exciting.  Life is ok unless of course this weekend doesn't turn out alright.


But I actually want to bring up a point that was recently made in the comments below.  Basically, what has happened to this blog?  It's a great question and it has a lot of truth to it.  I think the fact I am now updating this blog after almost a week at 11:45pm tells the story.  I would love to keep this thing more updated, but I am realizing that just isn't possible. 

But the thing is..I really have no reason or desire to shut it down.  I mean it's still an outlet for me to ramble & rage at times so that's good enough for me.  So for anyone new or for the old lebloggers crew, you can get a pretty good fill of CLE sports or Buckeye Football in any of the blogs listed to the right.  I will do my best to keep this thing updated when I can, but just know the love is always there. 

A Cavalier for life..

Well, Well

now that was one hell of a victory.  team effort all around with Drew freakin Gooden leading the way.  This is good stuff.  Andy was huge, Bron actually made almost all his free throws, Donyell was hittin his shots, Damon even made a few, and hell Shannon Brown got in the game.  Even though it's only one win, I am feeling a ton better about our team and our new offense now. 

One note here.  Poor Z is really not fittin in with this new offense. He played less mins than everyone except Shannon Brown (who played for the first time tonight) and David Wesley (who really just sucks).  Marv Albert mentioned how Z might have to hang tight while we get this offense tweaked and I think the cross-dressing fanatic might be right.  I don't see Z playing a lot of mins for some time.  Makes me happy we spent so much freakin money on Z, Damon, and Donyell. 


And I apparently wasn't checking ESPiN in the past few days, because I was totally unaware of this Bron walking off the court issue.  I mean by the sounds of it, this was quite the ordeal.  If you ask me I'd say who the hell cares.  It was nice to see Steve Kerr joking how Bron should be kicked out of the league.  Glad to see someone still has some common sense.

Anyways, Cavs fever is back baby. 

Freakin Pathetic

so I hope I am not the one to point this out but you guys (I mean you Cavaliers) haven't proved anything yet.  You are not automatically the Eastern Conference Champs so that means you can't just stop trying or caring now.  Freakin A.

The game tonight was kinda pathetic.  We get a good run to end the 4th then blow it then freakin back off and let Tyronn Lue get a layup to send it to OT.  A layup..I mean at least make him take a shot.  It was pretty painful to watch.  And OT..well, we didn't even show up to play.  Argh.

I am not happy.  This is the second loss in a row in which it looked like we just didn't give a crap.  I hope our attitude changes fast cause we are going nowhere with this mentality. 

Chicago ain't gonna be easy so good luck guys.

Umm..what the hell was that

Did a wild mustache just tame the King..

So the season started off really well vs the Wiz.  well actually..the game was just good enough..how bout that.  Game 1 wasn't pretty but we won and you have to expect the season opener to be mechanically unpretty.  L. Boogie was on fire, Gooden was amazing, and Bron was Bron.  Things were gettin off on the right foot.  Game 2..well that made me realize how much I missed the Cavs in the off-season.  I was ready for them to take it to the best and we did just that.  That was one of the prettiest games from start to finish that I have seen in a long, long time.   The posterizing of Duncan and career-highlight layup to end the first half were just some of the many reasons to believe LeBron was actually going to improve his game once again this season.  But then last night..

(Sorry to recap the first two games now, but I have been sick all week)

Game 3 was going strong for a while.  Built a nice 12-point lead, but then nonsense kicked in. It was just as though we just lost interest.  Granted LeBron was off all night, but this was the Bobcats so u have to figure others could step up and keep this one in the bag.  Well, as many of you saw last night or in the scoreboard this am, we sucked bad towards the end.  LeBron couldn't do a thing and many are saying it was quite possibly his worst game in a Cavs uniform.  It was nasty as Brian Windhorst took notice and was freakin pissed.

So with that the momentum was destroyed.  I know it's the beginning of the season, but this is not how a potential Eastern Conf champ plays.  I still very much believe, but want to see our boys step it up and play the lesser teams with as much heart as the big dogs.  So if this weekend any indication, it's going to be a long season.  We need to take that next step and I am sure Mike Brown will be making quite the speech before we meet ATL on Tuesday. 


But on a brighter note, the ladies of the blog are back, but this time doing what they only know how to do...dress in skimpy clothing.  That's right folks, whether you want to believe it or not, the biggest seller in the Cavs team shop is back for the 06-07 season.  The swimsuit calendar features all your favorite bloggers:  Bethany, Rhema, and Suzanne to name a few. 

So yea..that's great news. 

Daily Show Love

For those who are unaware, The Daily Show is filming in Ohio this week for some Midterm Midtacular Madness.  Ohio has been quite the controversial state in the past few elections and Jon Stewart is looking to analyze what exactly is going on in this great state.   The show last night was filmed on tOSU campus and included some wonderful OH-IO cheers.   But the odd part was the special guest wasn't an Ohio politician, but rather King James. 

I have to admit I was skeptical about this interview given Stewart's demeanor, but it actually wasn't too bad.  LeBron did say he would be at Ohio State if he were in college right now, which made the crowd extremely happy.  He also tore up Jon in a little game of scissors, rocks, paper.   Not bad..

So since YouTube is no longer the place for all things illegal, you have to head over to Comedy Central to view the clip.  Go here and choose segment 3 on 10/30 for Mr. LeBron.

Tonight's episode is live from Akron...

Kickin it 80's style

Brian Windhorst is known for delivering all things Cavs basketball and never seems to disappoint.  But now, when not talking about stratosphere's, Brian is dishing some amazing info on our boy Drew G.  Check below in that article under Dribbles..rather let me just post this.
 

"NBA players routinely pay big money for watches, but not the one Drew Gooden is now sporting. Gooden is on a big 1980s kick, a current fad in his hometown of Oakland. The Cavs forward recently plunked down $300 on eBay to get a vintage Casio calculator watch.

He's growing a square patch of hair in the back of his otherwise shaved head, which he calls a ``ducktail,'' another '80s look. His left eyebrow also has two lines shaved into it, another forgotten trend from the time of the Reagan Administration.

Gooden, however, was a little upset he had to get into a bidding war for the watch. Apparently he's run into another trend, as fans of NBC's The Office are in the market because one is sported by favorite nerdy character Dwight Schrute.

``It was me and another guy and we were bidding back and forth and it kept going up and up,'' Gooden said. ``I was lucky I got it.''

No word yet on his bid for retro leg warmers."

So we got the slickest player (ever), the best head of hair, and now apparently the hippest player in the Association.  Damn man..the Cavs are big time. 

UPDATE:  So I decided to look around on eBay for the watch.  So given you can only look up completed auctions that are up to 3 weeks old, if Brian is correct that Drew "recently" bought this, then here is your watch (you need to have an eBay account to view).   If he bought it more than 3 weeks ago, then be on the look out for a guy with a square patch on the back of his head and then run up to him and demand Casio satisfaction. 

Brilliant

Top of the morning.  I just came across this solid little parody from back in the day featuring some former Cavalier stars.  It's brought to you by CarlosLoozer.com, which I was surprised to see is alive and definitely kicking.  Enjoy:



Also, there is a new MP3 player out which is in the shape of a little collegiate helmet.  Only problem is when you visit the website, tOSU isn't an option.  Now, that seemed absurd given the teams on there so I emailed the dude.  He mentioned Thee OSU was not down with the idea and they are hoping to gather fan support to send along to the university.  I am not sure if we can make a difference or if anyone wants one of these, but I wouldn't mind walking down the street and seeing a Buckeye helmet attached to someone's pocket. 

Finally, check the first picture in the Photo Gallery on the Cavs.com.  hard core..

Buckeye Movement

thanks to a few buddies (paulev7 & markymark428) who forwarded along two very interesting articles this AM.


First, Jim Tressel addresses the chances of him coaching in the NFL.  This has been tossed for years but we never really took it seriously.  But in the article, Mr. Sweater Vest actually didn't rule out the possibility of moving to the awful Pro level.  So yea you would think that would piss off most Buckeyes, but actually his response was anything but.  The Plain Dealer (the other CLE Sports source) cited a source close to Ohio State that the Browns might be the only NFL job that would interest Tressel.  Huh. 

Now, this is interesting.  While it would be awful for Tressel to leave tOSU, I think I might be ok with this.  The Browns are obviously in some pain and fans are really upset.  But I think Tresselball might actually translate pretty well into the Pro's. (FYI..I am by no means a Pro Football expert or fan for that rather, so if someone would like to comment or analyze this move, please drop me a line or just comment).  Anyways, Tressel is building himself quite the legacy at Ohio State and maybe if we steamroll everyone else this year it might be time for him to go.  Very interesting topic. 


Ok the next article involved another Buckeye who is lookin for some Heisman love.  And no I am not talking about Troy or Teddy (or even Tony for that matter), but this is indeed someone from the great city of Akron looking for some 2007 Heisman hardware.  In this article, Antonio Pittman is pretty serious about this for next season, which means he will be back (and hopefully will run to the right).  Antonio is def improving by the game and with some big names gone next year, the kid might have a shot.  After reading this article I learned that if Pittman stays for his senior year and stays on his current rushing pace, he would need only 693 yards to surpass Eddie George (3,668) and be second behind Griffin (5,589).  Damn.

But what article from an Akronite would be complete without some stellar quotes:

About his time at tOSU, Antonio had this to say, "Positive,becausethere’s a lot of things I haven’t accomplished here," he said, "like honestly, I want to win a Heisman Trophy. That’s the ultimate goal, bring one to Akron."

"Everybody back home knows," Pittman said. "I said it right in front of Buchtel High School, I said, ‘That’s where I’m going to put my trophy, right in the middle of this high school."


Amen brother.  What I wouldn't give to see him throw up the Akron sign before they hand him the Heisman trophy.

Ok enough already

Can we seriously just get this season underway...

I love reading about us cutting Stephen Graham and all, but I don't think CLE fans can wait another day for some taste of accomplishment.  The Browns have hit all-time rock bottom and I just read our Offensive Coordinator quit on his own.  Simply awful.  The Tribe are long gone and it's very hard to be optimistic about next year.  We need something to hold on to.  And that's why next Wed couldn't come any sooner.  LeBron is ready and knows his role is more important than ever.  People are ready for victory (not saying championship), but looking for some positive CLE Sports momentum. 

So let's see what else.  Browns suck..check.  World Series is meaningless..check.  It's cold out..check.   Ok then.  Nov 1 it is..

 ..2..

The LeBrons - Year 2

UPDATE:  ahh..GooTube.  ahh..copyright infringement.  It seems the lawyers at Nike have wasted no time in having these commercials removed.  The links below don't work, but promise me they were giggidy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Has it been this long?  It seems like only yesterday The LeBrons interactive game was going on.  In honor of the season literally right around the corner, The LeBrons commercials are (on their way) back and Mr. Yaysports has just uncovered the unfinished products.


Commercial L:


This one is just ok in my opinion..only redeeming quality is when Wise LeBron says, "Like flies on shut your mouth.."


Commercial B:  


This one is freakin awesome.  Bron plays down the dunk contest, but then shows everyone whats up when the time was necessary.  And actually I could be wrong, but I believe during that is the only commercial where the real LeBron actually talks.  Huh..   Anyways, Wise LeBron once again comes back with a monsterous quote - "Ain't been nothing good like that since Sanford n' Son."  And Business Bron follows it up with "Dunk contests are bourgeois."  Holy wow..


Commercial J:


I am sorry, but another pimp commercial.  I am sure ridiculous to some, but overall it's slick.  Even a callout to the Detroit series and that old school baller named Michael.  The dive is no Mario Lopez, but hey that's basically impossible to top. 

Props all around to the director, producer, Bron, and anyone else involved in these spots.  Can't wait till they run during the season and hopefully Nike will once again create an interactive The LeBrons experience cause dat was some good fun. 

On a Different Note..

Can't Take the Heat

As just about everyone on the net has reported, the Gilbert Arenas article in Esquire was freakin weird.   It's a good read and the little talk about Bron confirms that Bron is indeed a baller.  It also confirms that my "altered" NES controller actually made a difference during game 6.  Read below..


NORMAL PERSON: In between those free throws against the Cavs, LeBron came over, pressed his hand against your chest, and said something to you. What did he say?

ODD ONE: He said, "If you miss this shot, you know who's gonna hit the game winner."

NORMAL PERSON: What went through your mind?

ODD ONE: I wasn't even thinking about it. Like, I heard him. But I don't miss free throws. That's the thing: I never miss free throws at the end. And this was a big free throw. The first one, I shot it, and I went, like, What? That wasn't me. It reminded me of this movie I saw where a kid is controlling the ball from the stands. All of my balls hit the front or back of the rim—nothing ever to the left or right.

NORMAL PERSON: In the middle of all that, you're thinking about the mechanics?

ODD ONE: Yeah.


So back to reality..Luke Jackson is gone and no Cavalier fan cares.  Welcome aboard Dwayne Jones and look forward to your fouling skills.

Wham with the Right Hand

Praise anyone you believe in cause Mr. Joe Tait will remain on board for at least three more seasons.  As if this is really a shock to any Cavalier fan, the news comes more as a relief.  I mean with Reghi getting the boot, you just never knew.  So this is great news given he began announcing the Cavs when the team was freakin formed in 1970.  Tait had this today in his announcement:

"I am delighted to know that I am continuing my long association with the Cleveland Cavaliers and sincerely hope that the future holds not one, but several NBA Championships," said Tait.

Amen Brother.  For more Joe Tait goodness, check out this article from the widely popular ClevelandSeniors.com. 

  Tait and Carr (man the 70's looked sweet)

Also, our training camp roster is now down to 18 after waiving Eddie Basden.  Who will be next..

And So It Begins

Tonight we will start what hopes to be a very special season.  Granted it's not the regular season opener, but the pre-season begins the battle for the prize to play Guard for the Cavs.  It's going to be exciting because we have a ton of guards right now fighting for a spot.  Brian "Akron" Windhorst has the complete scoop on the nature of this competition.  This is gonna be good folks.  Fighting your ass off to play guard for the Cavs..I mean when was the last time this happened.  I think it might have been when Darnell Valentine was trying to creep up on Price and Ehlo's mins in '89.  Well, either way this is only a positive for us. 

By the way..the starters for tonight are: LeBron, Hughes, Z, Snow & Gooden.

And in some sad news, the Cavs girls are done with their trip overseas, which means..the blog has been retired.  But don't worry, they left some parting words for all of us.  Each of the ladies made their own entry, but I thought I would share some deep thoughts from Bethany:

"We are very lucky to be living in America. The land that gives us freedom and rights as simple as being able to walk down the street with a t-shirt on instead of having to be completely covered."

Yes, Bethany..I for one am thankful that you girls don't have to perform your dances fully covered. 

I can't wait..

The free-spirited power forward signed as a free agent to bolster Cleveland's soft inside game. Pollard, who made 32 starts for Indiana last year, joked that he's just happy to be on James' team.

"Am I excited to play with LeBron? It's awesome," said Pollard, sporting a big smile and a spiked hairdo. "I'm a witness.  I got the T-shirt and everything."

Tuned to the Mother Funkin Greatest

sup folks..

not too too much to report, but just thought I would provide a few links floating around in Cavalier land. 

Deadspin has begun their NBA preview and today the Cavaliers got featured for Five Tiny Tidbits.  They reminded us once again how thuggish the quiet Larry Hughes actually is (yea you remember that strippers t-shirt don't ya).  Also, we learned how terribly wrong our old owner, Ted Stepien, used to be.  Finally, we know Donyell used to look like Ludacris, but guys Luda cut his braids..get over it. 

YaY points out that we also have a new floor.  Well would ya look at that...no glare.  While his mom said it has a "championship glare," my mom actually noted it looks like a "third-round of the playoffs" glare.  I guess we shall see who knows best. 

Finally, as many have heard LeBron is droppin his brand new album hitting stores on Nov. 1.  Seems the disc will be appropriately titled..'Black Jesus.'  Lord hopes this tops his previous effort.

Thanks alot Dave

LeBron on Letterman..not bad, not bad at all. 

Even though LeBron rarely appears on TV, the kid is totally refined.  Said all the right things and was very well spoken.  The "Black Jesus" comment was priceless and it was really cool to see him in awe of another athlete.  I would imagine he felt the same way seeing my buddies and I play in the same gym at the Akron JCC.  Also have to give him props for upping his 05-06 Free Throw Percentage by 5%.  Hopefully he will actualy shoot that percentage this year. 

On the downside, Letterman took a huge dig into the Cavs history.  LeBron just laughed it off, and smartly said nothing.  Oh Indiana Dave..i know your Pacers are so sweet.  But I have to give Dave props for his shooting.  He made it interesting and kinda made me nervous Bron might actually lose.  Ended up all good though..

Here is the interview in case you missed it (man the Internet is a handy tool):




Oh and the Cavs girls have updated their blog..mmmm

Next Time Powerade

Welcome everyone to LeBron live on Letterman Day.  Should be a pretty cool interview tonight according to that jacket he is wearing.  We shall wait and see. 

But first here is the eBay item of the day..how bout a 2002 Ohio State National Championship Ring.   what the hell Lydell Ross?  I mean let's say you get 10 grand and maybe that lasts a month or one night in Vegas..is it really worth it?  What a douche. 

Secondly..here is a new Powerade video that the Basketball Jones recently found on youtube featuring the one and only King.  By the way..I have really started to read his blog recently and it's fantastic.  YaY and him are definitely pretty top notch bloggers on top of having quite the fancy for the Akron Assassin.  So the video or commercial (I dont know)..it's not even close to the other commercials released.   Enjoy (I guess)..

Not Bad Mr. James

Ahh..to be a man-child from Akron.

So good old LeBron had lunch with Mr. Warren Buffet earlier this week and apparently is looking for some advice on becoming really, really rich.  Smart move LeBron.  See I am not biased..he really is a smart fella.  According to the AP (via ESPN), Buffett wore a Cavaliers' jersey with "Buffett" on the back during there lunch in Omaha, NE.  Oh man..that's awesome.  I think we will all gladly accept the richest man into our fanbase.  C'mon Dan..let Warren buy something in the arena. 

And if that wasn't enough..LeBron James recently taped a bit for Letterman in which the two competed in a little game of toss.  James shot from the 3 point area while Letterman opted on the free throw line.   Then Letterman interviewed him and I am personally excited about watching this on Friday night.  Here is a little photo from their interview:

Rough lives huh..

Should be nice to hear Akron mentioned in the PrimeTime and looking forward to a very rare public appearance from the Akron Assassin.  

Please Stop Ladies

Ok so I understand this blogging phenomenon is huge and everyone wants to get in on the act, but I think the Cavs organization has stepped just a tad bit over the line.  In efforts to become more 'intimate' with the fans, the Cavalier Girls have started blogging about their current trip to Iraq and China.  Now, I mean you would assume one has something interesting to write about while visiting such far off lands and getting to meet tons of people, but then it hit me that these are cheerleaders.  

So I took a glace at their blog entries and would like to share some of their thoughts:

"We then had our run-through/sound check before finally getting a couple of hours of personal time before dinner and the show.  What did we do? We definitely found the beauty parlor and got some pedicures and massages!!!!

We were so excited to use a "real" dressing room for our performances that we skipped dinner and instead had it brought to us! That was HUGE! Considering we haven’t got to use a blow dryer or a legitimate straightener for the past few days!! (I’m sure as you all could tell from the pics!) We were pumped."

My day is complete ladies..thankyou.  Oh and I don't really know what to say about this comment.  Yea..

We were all super-excited and nervous to ride a Super Stallion, which is a military helicopter with two gunners on the sides and one in the rear. We got to look out where the gunners were positioned including the rear where the door was WIDE OPEN!!!

But what is the most sad of all...the fact that I have read all these entries.

A New Era of Akron

so yes the Browns are just awful, but that is not the topic for this post.  I would like to point out something that 'appeared' yesterday during the OSU vs UC game.  No, it wasn't a brutal beating of the Nasty Nati nor was it our 4th string quarterback, but folks I am talking about something much more significant.

During the 4th quarter, Antonio "Akron" Pittman just blew by the UC defense for a speedy 48 yard TD.  For those who saw it, this was a very impressive run, but during that play you might of missed something that could have more impact on Akron athletes than anything..well ever.  Check this:

You know what this is don't ya.  Well, just to explain this is the dynasty symbol that Jay-Z throws up to rep his record label.  But..this is also the same symbol Bron threw up during the 2005 & 2006 All Star introductions.  So we all know Bron is part of Jay-Z's main crew so it would make sense he is throwing it up to rep his boy.  Ok fine makes sense.

But..when Bron first threw this up I initially thought it was an Akron symbol.  I mean it looks like an 'A' right?  So after the 2005 game, I got all psyched until people just said I was foolish and it's just to rep Jay-Z.  So the next year at the 2006 All Star game, Bron once again threw it up.  My buddies and I were all still convinced it was for Akron.   But now..we see Antonio Pittman, from Akron, throwing up this symbol after a sweet TD.  Huh..  So I might be nuts, but I don't think Pittman is a rapper nor is he that good to be one of Jay-Z's boys.  So where does that leave us you ask? 

I think we indeed have a new symbol for all Akron athletes.  What else could it mean?  And maybe Bron was actually repping his hometown this whole time.  I mean on the bottom of Bron's new lowtops is a pic of Ohio with a star representing Akron.  Would you really be that shocked if Bron did that?  Either way, this could be huge and hopefully means more Akron symbol's popping up around the wide world of sports.

AK..

LeWow

From the O-zone (via paulev7):

Shadow Dad? Just Turn on Pay per View: The story that James Laurinaitis' father was a professional wrestler has been written to death since he arrived on campus, but this week Laurinaitis talked about what it was like in the house on the days when dad was "at the office".

"You have parties where you order pay-per-view and my mom might order a few pizzas and we'd all watch my dad's match, then after that was over we'd all go do our own little matches here and there," chuckled Laurinaitis.

"Sometimes when I go home I'll still put on his tights and his pads and joke around with my friends a little bit because they love to see that, but for the most part, that's only once-in-a-while. It's fun. It was fun going to matches and meeting everyone in the business from Hulk Hogan to The Rock to anybody you can name," Laurinaitis said.

Laurinaitis said that some of those personalities are now following his career and called his father following his big game vs. Texas.

"There's a guy named Undertaker, he's a huge Texas fan, so he called my dad to say congratulations but it won't happen again," Laurinaitis said.


oh man this is sweet..I am trying to picture the Undertaker as a normal person (which is so weird), but I guess I can envision him in his Texas orange crying after the game.

Go Bucks!

So catching up..

man I wish I could keep this thing more updated. 

So anyways, the Texas game was a pretty nice little victory.  Word from Austin is that it was pretty dead post game since all the Texas fans had left and gone home.  Ha.  I was thinkin back to post OSU vs Miami game, but then I realized it was 90% OSU fans anyways.  But I guess it was a smart move by Texas to head home since we just plain embarrassed you.  I said it before but I never felt like Texas could compete.  I mean Vince Young was the team for the past few years..I mean they ran 5 plays and you expect a frosh QB just to step in..please.  Anyways at this rate people are jockin us and we are on the cover of the new SI. 

But the real story here..the Browns.  My buddies are well aware of my fading fanhood for this storied franchise.  The Browns are easily my #1 team and will always be, but as I get older they are starting to mean less and less.  I used to be a raging fan before they were moved to Bmore but those years away plus our never ending rebuilding process is killin me.  

Forwarding on to this year..I was fortunate (I guess) to attend the first half of the opening game vs Reggie Bush and boy was this..awful.  I mean some people say that college football is JV ball, but the way we played could be classified as high school football.  The calls didn't go our way and our offense just couldn't move the ball.  It was nasty.  I was hoping for an 8-8 year but I think Browns nation will be extatic now with 8 wins.  Speaking to many folks after the game, spirits were low and it just seems like it's going to be another awful year in the books before this team eventually folds..yea I said it. 

Like I said before..I just want to see this and on TV..please

 

Game On..

so as time is dwindling down to the big game I would imagine the OSU contingent in Austin are partying their heads off.  I mean this game is HUGE.  Texas has to win given it's their only tough game of the season.  But we have to win for many reasons..one of them being revenge (beotches).  I believe after getting the kinks out last week, we can pull this off. 

So not much more to say except that OSU is getting their own frosty.  Gotta love that Wendy's was found in Cbus. 

But finally, I will leave you all with this.  It was sent by a friend and when asked "how did you get this," the reply was simply..nothing.  So yea..here is a pic of Sir Tressel's office.  Go Bucks!

Moving On..

so..we all know the game last Saturday was pretty lackluster.  The first quarter was well..LeAwesome.  TD's, some TG2, some actual defensive play.  Overall, it was very entertaining to watch.  But after the first quarter things got kinda lame and kinda upsetting at times.  Garrett Wolfe, who came oh so close to beating the Akron Zips last year, basically ran all over our inexperienced defense.  I mean the kid is very good and truely a great college athlete, probably too small for pros but whatever.  Overall, the game was fine.  If anything, I am hoping it was a game to clear the cobwebs and get ready for this weekend. 

Oh yea..this weekend.  I think I have read about this one.  Texas vs. OSU you say.  Yea..#1 vs #2..first time ever this early in the season..Ya know, I have heard about this.  I know some of the LeBlog contingant is heading down to Austin tomorrow & Friday to "witness" this spectical.  Let's hope it was better than my little road trip last year to C-Bus for the same matchup.

So I am sure most of you have heard by now, but those amazing Buckeye fans will be taking over two Austin landmarks.  OSU has rented out Stubbs BBQ (yes, that Stubb's BBQ sauce) Friday & Sat and the Erwin center (basketball arena) for the Sat. pep rally.  Uhh..ya. That's pimp and Austin folks are not happy.  I mean this is basically the equivalent of the Longhorns renting out the Schott for their Pep Rally. 

Besides that it has been an exciting week of incidents involving the usual pot and guns.  And of course ESPN worthy news such as Tressel's apparent vote for Texas as #1.  But anyway, this should be an exciting one.  With pro football kicking off tomorrow and college football really kicking off this weekend (I am excluding UM vs FSU yes), I think it's time to get geared up for the Fall. 

Giggidy, Giggidy...Giggidy, Goo

Nice to have you on board

Welcome the Wesley clan to Cavalier land.  Mr. David Wesley was signed this AM by Danny Ferry and should bring plenty of solid experience to our backcourt. I know acquiring David has been in the talks for a while and glad to see we finally sealed the deal.  In case you're wondering, we have a lot of guards right now, but I am sure that will change soon. 

There are some crazy amount of David Wesley facts on that link, but two very interesting ones:

1. currently ranks ninth among active players in career three-pointers made (1,114)

2. one of just two undrafted players in league history to score over 11,000 career points (Moses Malone).

very cute David, very cute..

Good pickup in my eyes.  And I am sure having a (real) proven three-point shooter is gonna make Damon Jones feel all warm inside (if he makes it to the season opener).

It's happening

so we can talk about the game later but I just noticed this headline from a recent RealGM article:

LeBronze For The United States

hell yes..

Season Eve

tomorrow begins the start a very interesting and hopefully exciting season.  This will be the year of Lessert Ball (fyi: Tressel spelled backwards..ya know..playing the offensive game instead of defensive..ok i am an idiot).  So yea..we are pretty heavily favored early on (remember Tribe were pre-season #1) and Troy is gettin jocked as a big time Heisman candidate.  Corso picked Mr. Smith to make the pose, but good old Kirk chose otherwise.  I think maybe the Gameplan crew gave Kirk the old biased speech.  So..yea lots of hype and rightfully so. 

Final words before the season come from my buddy Paul.  He sent this beautiful link about some Troy Smith tidbits.  Check this:  

2) Troy on Game Week Rituals - Smith was reminded that former OSU safety Mike Doss at tacos every game week Monday in OSU's 2002 national championship season. Smith was aware of that, and said he has a plan of his own.

"Every Monday I'm going to eat a taco salad with lean turkey meat," said Smith.

uhh..yea that's pretty lame Troy.

 yea Troy..hike up the skirt.

So on that note..Go Buckeyes

2 more days

(thanks to my buddy baumer for the link)

Absurd

ok so i am glancing over at the always reputable espn.com and notice one of the top headlines is about good old Ohio State.  Given the news now-a-days, I figured it was the usual feel good OSU story, but wait..no this isn't a rip on OSU and of course it isn't a compliment..this shit is absurd.  I mean as a Buckeye I am a little shocked by this one.  I know we are crazy fans and love to buy anything with scarlet & grey on it, but come on.  What the hell am I talking about..cereal folks, cereal.

I mean I love the Buckeyes, but going up against Count Chocula is another ballgame.  So what is this nonsense all about?  The cereal is called Buckeye Heroes and hits shelves this Saturday, the opening day of the season.  What does it look like..well they are honey-nut-flavored toasted oats..uhh.  Pretty original guys.  Check out this quote:

"We couldn't make them 'block Os,' so we made them Os," said Rick Van Brimmer, director of trademark and licensing services at Ohio State.

This isn't the first food item to have some OSU love slapped on it. There is pasta, chips, salsa, hot dogs, mustard and hot sauces, as well as candy Buckeyes.  Tom Schmieder, marketing VP who is making Buckeye Heroes said, "OSU's fandom is just a different breed."

uhh...yea (and yes I will be buying a box). 

Oh Geez

so yea..to be honest I don't know if I should comment on this one.  I think a few people out there know a few letters/numbers to describe this, but regardless he is still the King. 

thanks to penya2 on flickr for all the great World Basketball shots. 

Oh Come On

Daniel Gibson, one of the Cavs new draft picks, was recently interviewed on Cavs.com about training camp, the season, etc.  Now, we were all very excited to pick up Mr. Gibson so late in the draft given he was projected to go 1st round.  And we were doubly excited since he is a freakin PG.  But his answer to the final question might make ya think twice: 

cavs.com: Last question: In the Texas-OSU game on September 9th, how many points do you think the Buckeyes will win by?
Gibson: (Pauses, laughs) WOW! No offense to the Ohio fans, because I’m looking for full support this season. But Texas is going to smack ‘em!

Ohhh..snap.  So yea he did go to UT and I guess he should root for his team, but I would hope he gets some real crap when they go down.  Maybe having LeBron throw on a white glove and backslapping him across the face might work.  who knows..

So by the way..we are at 4 days till kickoff of the Buckeye's season.  It's "supposed" to be a good year, but I personally would like to take this game by game.  I mean this year we are playing Lessert ball so who knows. 

yea..Lessert Ball..
 

Coming this Fall..

This is a pretty solid fake movie trailer from the 05-06 year which shows some nice early clips of the man-child.  Regardless of the odd noises and awful quality of youtube, it's still worth a view. Also, notice the sign when he says "uncharted island."

3-3-0

Holy Freakin Crap..I wake up to read that LeBron..yes that LeBron James, just got 2 more tats.   They will be making their world appearance vs. Japan (the country destined to make this Akronite a true international superstar).   So what did he get you ask???

#1 - The Right Calf of Mr. James now reads "Witness"  Man that Nike is good at marketing.  ok folks ready for the second...

#2 - Oh wow, oh wow, oh wow.  On his right arm, below his elbow, is a large "330'' which is a beautiful reference to his hometown's (aka: AKRON) area code.  This "330" also has four stars around it.  Oh my goodness..

Not sure what else I can say besides, sup now..

Classic LeBron LeShilling

here is a little info on this bad boy:  Made by Lebron Manufacturing in Omaha, Nebraska, its purpose is to improve the airflow into the grille, thus providing the engine with cooler air. According to the ad, from the February 1959 issue of Road & Track, installing this device also eliminates the need to replace the chrome grille.

I somehow feel like this could actually be turned into a some sort of modern ghetto grille for your caddy.  who knows. 

Things I have missed

Since at this point no one still checks this blog, I assume that means that no one has received news on Ohio Sports in the past 2 months.  I am deeply sorry, but let me quickly recap what has happened. 

The Indians still suck royally.  I mean they are awful.  From #1 presason ranking (remember don't jinx the Bucks) to getting rid of our old, fat closer, it's been a truly awful season.  Even with Grady Sizemore still part of the All-Handsome Team, we just can't play pitch or play defense.  Crazyness. 

The Browns have been plauged with injuries and here is Terry Pluto being a really old pissed off CLE Sports fan.  My buddy went last Friday night and basically said "It's going to be a long season."   I believe in Frye and hope we can win at least 5 games.

And the Cavs..well they had a nice little offseason so far.  After locking up Bron for 3 or 4 more years, we obtained a nice set of hair in Scott Pollard.  I mean with Andy and Scott, we are easily on our way to becoming the stylish team in the NBA..yea and Bron knows how to dress too.  But this guy will be a great addition and very excited to have another proven big man on our squad.  Still a shame all our big men are white but with time.  Finally, as everyone knows, our schedule was releasd and we open vs the Wiz.  Very psyched about this new rivalry and look forward to another year of almost getting beat up at Cavs vs. Wizards games.  Oh and there are 33 Cavs games on National TV, which is a franchise-record and the league max.

So yea the Cavs had a nice offeason and the deals are definitely not over.  We have a huge roster still and will surely be dropping a few names soon.  Exciting stuff. 

Finally, I read this beauty from Mistake by the Lake Sporting Times which shows Pronk's fair territory inside our great earth.  This is absurdly brilliant. 

And really finally, it was sad to see LeCharles Bentley going down on literallythe first down of the Browns camp.  What's even worse than this Ohio native gone for the season is that the Le prefix can not live on in multiple CLE sports.  It's quite sad as I was really hoping Le would catch on this year amongst everyone.  It's still destined to happen..don't you worry. 

Oh My..

I'm not sure if it was lazyness, maybe it was lack of passion, or it could simply be the lack of anything solid to come out of Ohio sports in the past few months.  But anyways..after reading the headline this morning that LeBron is taking Mandarin Chinese lessons..I got chills.  I got the LeBlog chills.  Once again the King has proven to me and hopefully now the world, that he is willing to take those extra steps to becoming the greatest (and richest) athlete ever. 

So onto the loving..Brain Windhorst has this ridiculous article about the extravagence that is LeBron.  I mean check this:

"Just inside room 748 at the Renaissance Hotel, two mannequins guarded the door and marble hallway like Nike sentinels.  Dressed head-to-toe in Team USA basketball garb, on their feet were LeBron James' two newest shoe designs. The walls were plastered with James photos, model action shots, studio shots and high-fashion glamour shots.  In front of gold curtains and a giant rack of Nike basketballs, the man himself lounged on a black leather couch, his back resting against a throw pillow with his picture on it."

Umm..that's freakin sweet.  Maybe it was LeBron commitment to his HOME that caused Nike to really commit to marketing him as the greatest ever...no wait, it was money that drove Nike.  Well anyways, I see no other way to treat a true athlete from Akron (except I am wondering about the lack of women with snakes around their necks).  I hope all his post game interviews are conducted in a throne.  I think a petition might be in order for this treatment if he can bring the city of CLE a championship. 

Speaking of CLE pain, I was reading the Browns preview on Deadspin and this guy, James Frey (yes, that James Frey) basically sounds like um..every CLE sports fan over 30 years of age.  I think the 20's are still inspiring, but I can imagine another 5-10 years of true sports pain could cause a man to have a pretty awful outlook on life.  Glad I have these things to look forward too. 

But yea..as far as I hear, the Browns are going to have another long season, but tis might not be the case for our boys from Franklin (County).  The Bucks were ranked decently high for the pre-season.  Who knows though.  I am finally feeling alive again with football around the corner and the Cavs season on the horizon.  I am sorry I haven't been around for a while, but I think times have changed.  A summer of awful Indians baseball just kills yea, but things are looking up for our teams. 

Ohio is the State..

Danny is a happy man

Well wasn't last night a nice surprise. I think Danny is probably a very happy man right now given who we picked up in the draft.  I mean we were almost able to pick up the laptop thief. But when Mark Price's number rolled around, we had a very nice selection of Guards to choose from.  In fact, when our second round pick came, we also had a nice selection of players.  Man that was a weird draft.

So now we have a Big Ten athlete and a Texas baller.  It's funny that we still had to focus on guards given we spent so much freakin money on Damon and Donyell. But either way we have some solid guards that we can groom for our future.  Man..they have to be pumped to play with LeBron.  That's just a rediculous opportunity. 

So even ESPN (insider) was giving us some love as we got graded an A.  Check out their comments:

Round 1: Shannon Brown, SG, Michigan State (No. 25 overall)

Round 2: Daniel Gibson, PG, Texas (No. 42)

               Ejike Ugboaja, F, Nigeria (No. 55)

Analysis: When you pick late in the first round, you're usually looking for someone who has a chance to be a rotation player.

When you pick in the second, you're looking for someone with a pulse.

I think the Cavs exceeded expectations with both picks.

Brown is going to be a dynamite player and a real steal at No. 26. He has the strength and athleticism of a lottery pick. He's a little undersized, but I think he'll be a great sparkplug for the Cavs.

I also like the Gibson pick in Round 2. As a point guard, Gibson is a so-so prospect. But as a scoring two, he could be a Ben Gordon type player.

Grade: A

sup now..alright well a solid draft and now we wait for the King on July 1.  2 more days..

3 days..

some links for today:


Ohio Sports road trip

remember to vote for the King for the ESPY's next month

Cavaliers Dance Team Music Video..uhh ya.

and someone is definitely takin care of the Cavs entry in Wikipedia.


until the draft...

4 more days

ok finally some NBA action.  Tomorrow night, the Cavs will hopefully make our first pick in years.  Obviously, we need a PG and that's really all that matters this year (unless Danny can make some fancy moves).  The realistic options on the table around our pick (#25) look to be either Shannon Brown or Jordan Farmar.  Both seem to be solid picks and to be honest I don't care who we draft as long as it's a PG.  Windhorst seems pretty indifferent about who we get and I am sure Ferry will attempt to shop some of our stars around for the right player.  Now there are rumors of Larry wanting out..geez.  Who knows.  I just know for me it's exciting to talk Cavs basketball again. 

So looking around about info on these two potential picks, I am noticing that Shannon Brown seems to be a pretty hot country singer whose album, Corn Fed, is in stores now.  Pretty exciting person to share your name with a farmer of the opposite sex who writes country songs about corn.

And Jordan Farmar...well I learned Jordan is Jewish, which we all know is the perfect pedigree for pro athletes.  Jordan was the 2004 Southern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame High School Athlete of the Year.  Wow..thats quite a title.  Either way..if he can ball and especially play PG, bring it on. 

so who knows if one of these guys will be sporting a Cavs uniform in the fall, but either way I am just psyched to finally have something to watch Cavs related on TV.  It won't be the 03 draft, but hey a King from Akron only comes around once in a long While.

10 days

so..yea..what's up people.   I think today is an appropriate time to write a new entry into this blog.  I must admit I had no interest in the NBA after we lost and honestly had no desire to update this blog.  But I think today provided a little motivation.

Ok so first let me say I probably watched 20 mins..no maybe 30 mins of the NBA Finals.  And honestly, I just wanted to see Cuban on TV.  I know the Mavs came out strong then just faded bad.  I have to admit I felt a little upset to my stomach this morning when I heard the Heat had won it all.  This team just doesn't feel like they should be the NBA Champions.  I think Bill Simmons said it best (and Mark Cuban agrees) that we just took a step backwards in the progress of the Association.  You can read his commentary for yourself, but basically the Heat are not part of the new NBA.  The Mavs, Cavs, Suns are the new NBA.  Read the first few paragraphs for yourself to get a better idea.

Also, there are some fantastic Bron tidbits in this article.  Check out this one: 

As a basketball fan, I think this would be terrible [the Heat winning]. A tragedy, even. Nothing against Wade -- after all, it isn't his fault his team sucks and he has to play this way -- but seeing an individual triumph over a team YET AGAIN would erase every positive outcome from the 2005-06 season. Basically, the team with LeBron or Wade will win the next 10-12 titles, and it will come down to which guy made more 20-footers with two guys on him and which guy got the most cheap calls from the most spineless referees.

Hmm..I am not sure why this would be a bad thing..giggidy.  Also, one more quote:

Believe me, I understand why we reached this point -- in the late-'90s, an entire generation of players weaned on hard fouls (like the McHale-Rambis clothesline), trash-talking superstars (like Bird and MJ) and constant woofing (from the Fab Five and UNLV in particular) ended up taking all three of those elements to inappropriate levels. I concede this point.  But haven't we swung too much the other way now? For instance, when LeBron psyched out Gilbert Arenas at the free-throw line in the final game of the Cavs-Wiz series, that was one of my favorite moments of the playoffs -- not only that LeBron had the confidence to do something like that, but that it reminded me of something that would happen on the playground, just two ballers talking smack before a big moment.

LeAwesome memories..


ok folks..so the real story here.  LeBRON.  Le-freakin-Bron.  Today the countown begins.  10 more days..yes folks, 10 more days till we can offer Bron THE contract.  You know..the contract that will hopefully change the destiny of CLE and our troubled sports city forever.  Oh yeah..that contract.  Well, apparently Mr. James is confident about signing this piece of paper that will be put in front of him on July 1, 2006. 

Man I hope so..

So Life After..

..is really just not as fun.  It was mad fun getting to feel like you were a kid again by watching the Cavs in the playoffs.  This time there was no Mark Price or Brad Daugherty, but LeBron filled that void no problem.  I believed in our team as did the whole Cavs nation, but in the end we just didn't want it.  And by "the end," I am referring to Game 6 and by "didn't want it," I am referring to rebounding the ball. 

It was a grand few weeks of playoff action for our Cavaliers as they stole the NBA spotlight.  Even if people weren't rooting for us, they knew we had grown up and arrived in the East.  It was truly amazing to see all the jocking of LeBron when the Cavs were winning and even more amazing to see the bashing of the Cavs when we lost.  Gotta love when ESPiN's only goal is to create drama.

Personally, I had a great time cheering on my team.   After seeing Game 6 vs the Wiz in DC, I figured I would ride my good luck so I ended up hopping an early, early flight to CLE for Game 6 vs the Pistons..but we all know that didn't go exactly as planned.  Quick note though..it was the biggest sporting ticket in CLE since the 97 World Series (which I won't comment on).   Crap tickets were selling for hundreds while tix near the floor were going for $3000-$5000.  Damn.. 

Anyways..the offseason swirl has begun.  Z now might be traded, Bron won't leave, and Dan truly appreciates our support.  It still sucks we won't see any NBA action for a while, but I am guessing this could be another fun offseason. 

Thanks to everyone in the Cavs organization for a great season..

Maaaan..

Not sure about you, but I am not ready to accept that our season is over just yet..

C'mon Now

geez..still not a lot of love.

Actually..who cares about this crap.  So last night was one again LeSpectacular.  This team has heart and the best part is that the pressure is still on the Pistons.  I hope we can bring this home on Friday at home.  Fans are hungry.  I mean look at this history folks...pain, pain I tell ya.

Also, check out fellow NeOH native YaySport's writeup after the game.  Well said and I agree this quote will go down in history. 

"It's not that they're the Big Bad Wolf and we're the Three Little Pigs,'' LeBron James said.

Not only does the AK Assassin know his nursery rhymes, but the guy is a student of the game.  After the game he made reference to the Pistons coming back in a playoff series years ago.  I mean the guy just played (another) 48 mins, just had another hugely emotional win, and then he references the Pistons playoff history.  Good lord..

You are the King and we are your servants..

Life is Good

Yea..life is real good.

Ridiculous

I mean seriously..that game was ridiculous.  We played their game..defense.  We found their weak point..driving to the hoop.  And we played with more heart.  It was freakin insane.  I am still speechless. 

E. Snow..amen brother.  That was quite a peformance in the second half.  Not sure where those skills have been in the past few years, but glad to see you shine when it matters most.  Anderson was redonkulous.  Dare I say he has been our Pippen in the past two games.  I am loving the LeBron-Andy pick n' roll.  And the King played off, but still almost got a Triple-Double.  Not many of the Cavaliers had their slickest game, but in the end we scored just enough and played solid D.  Man am I happy. 

So it's 2-2 folks.  I can't believe I am writing that.  After a trip this morning to St. Louis to pay respect to Justin Hughes, the Cavs are off to Rock City.  Wednesday will be tough as Detroit realizes they can't be cocky one bit.  This should be a great matchup.  But as usual..if we can head into the final quarter down by less than 10, we have a shot.  As Reggie Miller keeps saying, we have one thing Detroit doesn't...a number 23. 

I love this game..


Update:  I have been searching around the net for some thoughts on the game and found this one very interesting. 

Know Your Roots

 

Got It

Oh yea baby..got the W.  What a spectacular game on Saturday.  I love Bron's strategy..team for first three quarters then he takes over in the money (or Le4th) quarter.  That was a HUGE game for us and regardless of what happens for the rest of the series, I think we can look back on Chapter 3 and be happy. 

Oh and I believe Anderson proved his worth on Saturday.  Like we argued in the previous post's comments..can Anderson start next season if Drew leaves?  The answer is yes.  All he has to do is get open and make layups.  It doesn't matter who plays PF..LeBron & Co will get him the ball.  Throw on 10-20lbs to Mr. Varejao and we have a dominant PF.  I say let Drew go and focus on a PG. 

Either way..go Cavs!


P.S. C'mon Guys

well..

not really sure what to say.  As scoop mentioned, this probably will be a great learning experience for the King, but still..it sux.  The Pistons are just way out of our league (at least this season).  We just need to take one game which hopefully we can accomplish during the 2 game homestand. 

But on a side note, I am curious what people are thinking in terms of off season moves.  I think its unanimous that we all would like to see Damon "Game 6" Jones in another uniform.  And we might not have a choice with Drew.  But what else.  Mike Brown..safe..right?  Possible trades?  What about a new PG..

I imagine Anderson will be starting next year with Hughes, Z, Bron, and a new PG.  Hoepfully we can pick up a vet (paulev7 and I discussed Kidd) and have him for a few years. Then we can draft a PG when we actually get a draft pick and have him learn.  Who knows..

Either way..just trying to divert attention from the series vs the state up north. 

OK then

well didn't that suck..

I am going to blame it on no rest and no time to learn the Pistons offense.  I don't think their shooting had anything to do with it.

Game 2 it is..

LeMazing

sorry for the late post in regards to the Cavs victory on Friday night, but honestly I just stopped celebrating..I mean come on, that game was huge.  I proudly wore Cavs tshirts and hats all around DC on saturday and def got some awful looks not to mentioned being heckled by a cop.  It's all good though..

But the game itself was such a stressful/amazing/non CLE Sports style game.  Everyone chipped in.  Donyell had one of a hell game..Anderson was monsterous towards the end and of course the King did his part.  Best part were his words to Gilbert..."if you miss these free throws, it's over."  The King just knew..he just knew.  And that's why one day we will take it home.  We never had someone with such confidence in not only himself, but his team.  He is the King and we are his servants..

For now..Go Cavs and good luck today vs the Pistons.  Remember going forward..it's all about the experience. 

We are all LeWitnesses

Young Bron says: Bring on LeGame 6..

UPDATE (The Day After):

Ok folks...that was sick.  I mean simply insane.  Without being biased, that was one of the best games I have seen in a long time.  Neck and neck all game with Bron and Arenas just going off.  Granted the Cavs should have pulled it out at the end of regulation, but we still won and a W is all that matters.  It was a game full of fouls as it was an extremely rough game...playoffs baby.  Love it.  

But that game was something you just needed to witness.  When the King went out early with 4 fouls, our team picked up the slack..in fact we went up by more points when he left.  That is the kind of support we need in the playoffs.  Snow played hard, Anderson was an animal, Gooden got his boards, and Flip/Hughes provided the momentum.  Well done guys..well done. 

Also, for those of you who were at the game, the announcer proclaimed in the 2nd quarter that the NBA should rename a Triple-Double to a 'James.'   I mean wow..I couldn't of jocked him any better myself. 

Anyways..so pumped for Friday.  I will be there and cheering with all I got.  This is huge baby..freakin huge..

Good Luck

As sad as it is for me, I will not be able to attend the next few games in DC as I will be out of town.  Paullev7 will be there and will probably be the guy who gets thrown out of the arena if Jamison attempts another 'hard foul' on our King. 

Mike Brown knows we need to make adjustments and hopefully we will come out strong tonight.  We only lost by a few points last game so we can do this.  We have the talent and most importantly the heart..

Go Cavs!

 check out anytime you'd like, but you will always be a fan

Obsessed

ok I doubt I am the only one here who is crazy obsessed with the new LeBron Witness commercial.  I mean it paints the picture of present day Northeast Ohio, shows some of the city's pride (yes, I am talking about a sandwich), and shows how much we believe in this kid from Akron.  Folks..he is our future.  I love C.C. and all, but come on.  He is it..he is the Chosen One and we are all Witnesses.

So about this insanely pimp commercial..let's break this bad boy down frame by frame cause I am sure most people in the world have no freakin idea what any of that stuff meant.  I mean it's seriously an inside commercial.  Without further a due I will do my best to identify each frame..


1st Frame - drumroll begins as we roll down some of the rougher streets of downtown Akron.  I have actually visited the exact location of LeBron's birth and it is a nasty, awful area.  Notice it's being shot from a car..now I am not sure, but by the looks of the windshield wiper it seems to be shot from LeBron's old Hummer from his St. V days.

2nd Frame - the smoke stacks.  ahh..anyone from Northeast Ohio is very familiar with these bad boys.  These look to be around the downtown Akron area near the Goodyear factory.  (ok I completely made that up) 

3rd Frame - oh yea baby..77N.  the road from Akron to downtown CLE.  LeBron lives in Akron and takes this road up to the Q for every single game.  Pride baby..  Also note the first few scenes were in Akron and now we have moved towards CLE. 

4th Frame - looks to be a nasty, run down YMCA as well as convenient stores in CLE

5th Frame - a quick glimpse looking up into the Columbus Road bridge with a view of downtown CLE

6th Frame - a shot of some basketball courts.  Now it would seem this would be in CLE given how we moved from the AK to CLE, but LeBron was well known in many of the Akron bball courts in which my buddies and I also played on.  Could be Croghan Park, could be St. V, could be anything. But we all know LeBron has helped out Akron by building more bball courts so I am glad this shot got in there. 

7th Frame - ahh..home.  The Q.  Good work Danny G. 

8th Frame - Bron jogging down the court in the wine jersey

9th Frame - Sportsman's Restaurant which is right near the Justice Center downtown. There's a counter area if you're eating alone and tables and a back dining area if you're there with friends or coworkers. Has a pimp vintage Sportsmans sign out front.

10th Frame - the famous quadruple double corned beef sandwich from Sportsman's.  The price is only $9.23 as the Playoff special.  Notice Go Cavs written in the bottom right

11th Frame - LeBron James bobblehead in blue jersey.  Most likely the giveaway from the Q, but could be from Giant Eagle.

12th Frame - bunch of kids coloring at a school.  notice Bron on the tube in the background

13th Frame - one of the fantastic drawings titled 'Slam Dunk' of LeKing

14th Frame - slam dunk in the blue jersey vs the Lakers

15th Frame - girl getting #23 painted on her cheek most likely in Tower City Mall which connects to the Q. Notice the kid behind her with Cavs written on the forehead..he is loving life.

16th Frame - Bron joggin again..in the white jersey  (red, blue, white..good work Nike)

17th Frame - after the shady white van passes, there is a shot of a guy on a chopper next to one of those cheap signs which beautifully reads 'We are all Witnesses.'  This is followed by another van passing down Carnegie Ave in downtown CLE.

18th Frame - close up of the cheap sign with pimp message

19th Frame - not sure of the building (help anyone?) but draped out of one of the windows is a bedsheet or cloth which reads 'I am a Witness'  Just clarifying things here..these are not fabricated scenes by Nike..this is all real.  There are many many signs in CLE supporting our King.  Pride..

20th Frame - close up of the pride on a bedsheet

21st Frame - LeBron side-fives someone from his knees vs the Pistons (in a blue jersey)

22nd Frame - the beginnings of a beautiful shirt (and marketing campaign).  The Witness T is being screened in wine and gold.  ooh..yea

23rd Frame - the phrase of the hour on possibly a sign at the airport or near the arena. 

24th Frame - Witness t-shirt complete and getting ready to be shipped to the Q for game 1 of the Playoffs

25th Frame - Man on a bball court holding a ball with the tshirt on.  LeAwesome

26th Frame - hard ass in the auto body shop also sportin the tee

27th Frame - more #23's being painted on little kids faces

28thFrame - insane dunk over the Lakers in the blue jersey...bron screams as this one goes down

29th Frame - another driving dunk over half the Bulls squad at the Q in a white jersey

30th Frame - full extension leg kick dunk vs the Spurs in a white jersey

31st Frame - the domination scream vs the Heat..man is this guy awesome

32nd Frame - the music stops abruptly as the 10 story, 212 foot wide billboard of LeBron appears.  This is on the Landmark building in downtown CLE.  Also note there is a slight screech of a car/train at the very end. 


As the commercial builds & builds and the goose bumps set in, all of a sudden the music just stops. You are left to stare into the greatness of this massive billboard and realize how much this city & team relies on the AK Assassin.  I don't care where you are from, this is an amazing commercial and congrats Nike.  You know what you have in LeBron and you are playing it perfectly.

Long live LeKing...
 

Further Jocking..

..of Brian Windhorst.  Our man on the inside is right now hosting an online chat (on espin) and check this out..gold baby:

Travis (Indiana State): What does LeBron do in the off-season as far as workouts go? 

Brian Windhorst: (4:23 PM ET ) He actually bikes around Akron a lot. There are some hills in the area where he lives and he and his friends ride around early in the morning. He also holds these super-secret pickup games at various gyms in the middle of the night. Several NBA players fly in and take part like Nene and J.R. Smith. I've heard the call goes out to players and just gives 12 hours notice. (editors note: LeAmazing)

plus...

BJ Carmel NY: Going along with Nicks question, Wouldnt Lebron see his contracts skyrocket in a big market like NY or LA. Not that he needs the money of course. 

Brian Windhorst: (4:20 PM ET ) BJ, LeBron is already the highest-earning endorser in the NBA while in Cleveland. The NBA has max salary limits, which is why Tim Duncan is still in San Antonio. LeBron does have some kickers in his contracts that would pay him more to be in NY, LA or Chicago, but they are small and his Nike contract is fully guaranteed.

 

UPDATE:   this just in - ESPiN really really likes Brian Windhorst