Tag Archives: Local

Miami Heat superstars

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A win over the Atlanta Hawks is Miami’s 19th straight win, still I’m heart broken

Atlanta gained the tip-off with height, speed and fast ball movement but failed to capitalize on that play giving Mario Chalmers # 15 a chance to hit 2. Chalmer’s first basket was followed by another steal by Chalmers to Dwyane Wade # 3 then to LeBron James # 6, but a foul on his leap to the rim left a Hawk on the floor.  The Heat went on to gain a 5-point lead (8-13). A long bom intended for LeBron finds LeBron on the floor. It nearly gets picked off, but from the floor LeBron gets the ball to Wade who gets the job done (8-17). Atlanta races to the other end only to face Haslem who puts a stop to that by drawing a charge. Haslem’s 7th rebound in 8 minutes allows Ray Allen to hit a triple (10-22). Kevin Harris # 34 is speedy but not fast enough, ding-dong, the time is gone – shot clock runs out.

In Q2 the Hawks catch up (28-28), but  D. Wade takes back the Heat’s lead with 2 (28-30), then comes Anderson # 11 Birdman with his backwards dunk. Wade makes a nice move switching the ball from his right to his left hand as his arm swings around  to avoid a Hawk in his path, then he takes it to the rim (33-37). Wow.  Bosh blocks, “You are not getting pass this point,”  so the Hawks shoot from a distance hitting not one but two triples (38-39).  They are trying to catch up. A steal by Wade sends him on a race down the speedway but a Hawk meets LeBron at the rim (38-41). Josh Smith climbs up the ladder over LeBron for 2.  Hawks stopped Wade under the rim but the ball goes out to Chalmers who hits 3.  “Hawks probably wish they hadn’t stopped Wade on that shot” (40-44).  LeBron runs pass Chalmers and does a drive-by to grab the ball from Chalmers then takes it up with perfect timing to secure the Heat’s lead (40-48). Chalmers comes back with a triple (40-51, Q2 2:22).  Atlanta, all over Bosh, forces a shot clock violation (42-51).

Udonis Haslem gets his 10th rebound. Bosh over Anthony Tolliver # 4 gives Miami an 11-point lead (44-55).  At the other end, Smith fouls Bosh giving Bosh 2 at the line with a tenth of a second before half-time.  Ouch, that hurts.  Heat goes into the locker room up 44-57.

Q3 Dahntay Jones does a drive by to take the ball away from LeBron (48-59), “Hey, where’s the ball?” That play got away from the Heat not sure what happened (50-59), then the ball gets away from the Hawks and goes into the stands. “Take it away from me, Lord, take it away…”  Chalmers takes the ball away (50-61). Then D Wade takes it away from Dahntay Jones # 30. Jeff Teague #0 hits a triple to cut the Heat’s lead. But never fear, LeBron is here.  LeBron runs right through the middle of “Hawkland” to  score. Then Bosh hits a 20 footer (56-67). Chalmers comes back with 3 (56-70). Ray Allen cleans up at the rim (60-74). With high intensity, Chalmers forces a turnover then races down the court with the goods. Before he makes it to Grandma’s house he gets ambushed in the paint. The ball is gone. LeBron’s sharp basketball IQ gives him the ability to expect a pass down the lane. He races out of nowhere to grab a steal then gets the ball to Birdman, wide open under the rim. Who could have seen that coming?

Going into Q4, LeBron gets up there and blocks a ball headed towards the rim. What, no point?  Shucks. That was a clean block. Okay, team, find another way. Anderson steals 67-82 but  the Hawks refuse to let him get near the rim. Not out of options, Birdman forces  a stop at the other end with a block that Ray Allen knocks to D Wade to finish. “Don’t leave, the game is not over yet.” A run-away train with another Wade/Cole duo down the court (67-89).

Birdman, Anderson # 11 falls over the back of  Mike Scott #32. Anderson hits the floor hard but gets up unmoved. Scott didn’t hit the floor so why is he shaken up (68-89)? Good fake Scott. Anyway, while Birdman was down, the Hawks got away with a clear path to the rim (70-89). The Norris “Code” sends the ball to Wade but a  pump fake is necessary to get it in. Heat is up 22 with 6 minutes left (70-92). But, that lead quickly drops to 14 (78-92). LeBron sits relaxed on the bench. Hey guys this game is not over. There are 3 minutes left. Anything can happen. 80-94 2:13 Joel Anthony # 50 gives a quick jump to the rim. Then Anthony comes back with another shot. “You go, Joel.” Heat has the ball, there are 23 seconds left to play, the score is 81-98. Heat gets past center court, then stops. “Hey, why are you stopping with the ball,  the time is running out, shoot the ball. Can’t you see the score is only 98. Take it to 100. Why are you stopping? Move it, move it. “You’re causing me a break-down. What about the stats, get the score over 100. Oh my God, who cares if you miss and they get another shot. It’s not like another point for the Hawks will make a difference. Don’t throw away time. At least try to get the score over 100. Not getting the Heat score to 100, messes up the stats. You’re breaking my heart. Somebody teach them to play ball.

Teach the Kids to play ball 0 00 00-01

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LeBron over Kobe, Allen over Howard, Miami walks, Lakers strike out

Way to Go!  Miami Heat gets the job done 99-90 and heads home to celebrate Wade’s Birthday.

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Q1    What a steal from LeBron to jump-start the game. LeBron James # 6 gets past Kobe Bryant #24, Pau Gasol # 16 and Dwight Howard #12 to slam at the rim  (31-29). Chris Bosh # 1 sends his defender crashing to the floor (31-29).  Dwyane Wade # 3 plays his way right on down to the floor (33-29), then Wade on Kobe, what a dive!  Q2  Even with 13 turnovers LA  Lakers hold a slight lead 33-35, but the Heat kick-starts their game. Bosh with the rebound. LeBron runs in to give the Heat a slight lead (41-40).  Wade heads through the front door into the paint – LeBron coming through the back door goes to the rim as half-time winds down (44-45).

Chris Bosh puts some steps on Dwight Howard, but a block by Howard results in a goal tend (47-49). Q3.Wade moves like lightning to the rim for 2 (50-49). LeBron throws a “Dan Marino” pass to Wade at the rim, and Wade throws down.  Q3 7:37 63-62.  Wade puts a stop to Kobe Bryant. Udonis Haslem # 40 runs towards the basket  with perfect timing as the ball nearly flies past,  but UD takes control and gets it to the rim (67-63). Haslem goes into the paint for 2, then, LeBron motors to the rim (62-66). LeBron stops Earl Clark’s action but Antawn Jamison # 4 cleans up for the Lakers (62-61). Ray  Allen # 34 at the line adds 2. LeBron  flies to the rim 71-66. Norris Cole # 30 balling eye-to-eye, knee-to knee with in-your-face defense.  LeBron gallops on all fours then rears up for 2 as Q3 comes to an end with the Heat leading 73 -65.

Q4 9:38 Heat leads by ten (78-68), but  Kobe hits 2,  then Kobe hits 3 more chiseling the Heat’s lead down to four. (78-74).  Now, Kobe comes back and
hits another 2. The Heat ups the ante as the clock winds down. LeBron dives for the rebound then Ray Allen for 3.  The Heat takes the ball intended for Howard. Blocking foul on Gasol. LeBron takes a hit, grimacing in pain but he hits 2 to tie the score (83-83. ( Q4 6:47).  Heat score advances but Nash hits 3 to even the score 3:32. Kobe is courting with foul trouble with his 4th foul.  Allen goes in for 2. Howard at the line misses the second shot,  LeBron gets the rebound and gives Heat a lead 90-87. Kobe’s not on the bench yet, he hits 3 to tie the score 90- 90. Wade says, “Hey my brother, what’s up with that?” He adds 2 to take back the Heat’s lead  (92-90).  A jumper by Allen over Howard puts the Heat up 4 with 1:03. (94-90) and Miami gets possession. LeBron smiles inside and goes on to hit 2 with 46 seconds. (96-90). And that takes care of that.  THE END.

Join us for more sizzling drama on Wednesday January 23, when the Heat takes on the Toronto Raptors.  (Sun Sports /790 AM/104.3 3 pm/710 AM)

Support Shane Battier’s Take-Charge Foundation to inspire leadership qualities in young people,  on January 21 with some fun at the Eden Rock.

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LeBron James youngest player ever to hit 20,000 points

Miami walks away with a win over Golden State Warriors 95-72, but LeBron walks away with the gold.  Making 25 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists, at 28 years old, LeBron James is the youngest player ever to hit 20,000 points. He also makes a record 5,000 assists. Ten years in the NBA, LeBron James goes down in history along with Kobe Bryant,  Oscar Roberts, and Kareem Abdul Jababar

In Q1 Wade’s “Dan Marino”  pass to LeBron James sends LeBron flying through the air to the rim with a right-handed slam. (2-4) Wade runs  into the unobstructed paint for 2 (7-8).  Wade’s pump fake draws a foul on Thompson and adds 2 at the line.  “That’s a bad boy.” (14-12).  LeBron goes up for 2 but it’s no good. “It’s not over, yet.” The ball goes out, but Udonis Haslem # 30 comes flying in from the right  wing and cleans up with a “LeBron style” right-handed over the shoulder slam dunk  (18-12).  LeBron with the rebound, spins under the rim but goes down holding his arm. Wade to LeBron back to Wade for 2.  LeBron,  holds his right arm but  he comes back and hits 3 (23-12). Yea, looks like LeBron is okay (25-16).  Joel Anthony puts a stop to Harrison Barnes with his signature block.  Q1 comes to an end with Heat leading(28-21).

Q2 8:35 Bosh slips in the same spot on the court where Wade and LeBron slipped earlier.  “What’s up with that?” LeBron passes to Wade who slams at the rim (30-25).  Wade into the paint throws to Ray Allen # 34 in the corner for 3 (33-25).  Mario Chalmers for 3 (37-25).  Golden State pushes Ray Allen to the free throw line for a technical. Heat leads at half-time 52-38.

Q3 Bosh hits a jumper (60-38). Wade with another “Dan Marino” pass and LeBron climbs up to the rim for 2 (62-38). Chalmers hits 3 (65-38) with  4:09. Tremont Green gets called for an offensive foul for shielding LeBron. Thank you Ref for seeing that  (75-44).  Joel Anthony with the rebound to Bosh for 3 (78-44)  Ray Allen charges into the paint with confidence, adding 2 (80-50). Heat stops the shot and Joel Anthony takes the rebound (85-54). Rashard Lewis finds his rhythm and hits 3. (85-54).  Norris Cole hits a long 2 from the corner (88-61). The Heat played its game and won with a 17-point lead.

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Miami Heat and Utah Jazz in a dog fight

On Monday, the Utah Jazz hosted the  Miami Heat in a game that was supposed to be basketball but turned into a dog fight of kicking, scratching, and clawing. The game of basketball has changed.  No more simple travel and fouls. Tonight the Jazz played like life itself depended on winning. It was not just the normal pushing and holding. The physicality raised to throat grabbing, kicking and clawing.  In addition, now the new defense includes psychological ammo.  Recently, Carmelo Anthony was suspended for taking the fight outside, (Mello, the girls thought that was admirable, the way you stood up for your girl. But just like fighting for your team, you have to use emotional intelligence, because “losing it” is just how the opponent wants to provoke you.  Don’t you know that Kevin Durant is all about jokes. Didn’t you see his doodle jump commercial?  Tell Kevin, “You got jokes, here’s one for you…”)

Anyway,  in this game the Jazz brought the fight to the court with all their mental and physical ammunition. The Refs allowed everything in this game.  “Hey Ref, what does it take to get your attention,. There’s a foul happening over there. Didn’t you see that?  It took all he had but LeBron James # 6 did a good job of holding in his anger, despite some of the calls in the game.

We have to give it to the Jazz, they won the game with their shots. The Miami Heat players  could have played a better offensive game by steadying their hands and grounding their feet on each shot. Hey guys, didn’t your coach teach you to “KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE BALL AT ALL TIMES!   Hey, coach, you need to call me, I have some coaching for you!

An offensive foul sends Chris Bosh # 1 crashing to the floor in Q2. Hey, be careful we need Bosh to start in the All-Star game.  Dwayne Wade hammers hard and goes down hard. (40-54) “Dang, what they  trying to do to our D. Wade.” (40-54). Hayward falls and Udonis Haslem goes down with him on the floor.”Oh, my God, is Haslem okay?”   From Q3 to Q4 the Heat begins to get it, that this is how they roll. That’s right Ray Allen you run in there and help your team-mate LeBron in trouble.  4Q 11:33. that’s right LeBron you steam roll right on into the paint. (70-86 10:45). Get down, Joel Anthony # 50  goes up against Derrick Favors # 16 (70-86).  DeMarre Carroll # 3 guards Ray Allen with arms legs and everything else waving in Allen’s face. “How does he expect you to see?”  That’s the point he doesn’t.  So don’t wait for him to let up. The quicker you accept it the quicker you can adjust, “That’s how he rolls.”   Ray Allen has no help in the paint (73-88). “Arms up, guys, defense.” Heat strips the ball (76-88), sends Gordon Hayward # 20 to the floor  (76-88). “Alright now.” Battle for the rebound. Way to go LeBron goes walking away under fire but don’t let it get you a technical. Good Defense Bulldog  Chalmers.  Get physical, 7 seconds on the shot clock.
“Run LeBron run, you chase him down. LeBron on the floor. Allen kicks a__ with 3 points. (81-88). Not now LeBron, don’t let him get you down. Not Now, We’re coming back. Keep your head up LeBron don’t let it get to you down. “I’m doing all I can.”  We hear you but don’t let it affect your shot.  Claw, scratch, kick, slap your way in, but stay in the zone, don’t let it pull you off your game. Third foul on Chalmers but he put up a good fight and fought for that rebound (81-88).

The Heat goes down 97-104, but they understand the fight.

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Heat is not playing its winning game

In a late night game with the Miami Heat against the Portland Trail Blazers, Chris Bosh # 1, Dwayne Wade # 3, and LeBron James # 6 are energetic and alive; up 21-18 at the end of Q1. The Trail Blazers miss 15 of 20 shots. Damian Lillard # 0 “Rookie of the Month” hits two triples.

In Q2 Ray Allen # 34 comes alive hitting his 57th triple of the season. Portland capitalizes on missed opportunities. Norris Cole hits 3 (37-27). Udonis Haslem # 40 ties  with Shane Battier # 31 in drawing offensive fouls. Battier watches from the bench, recovering  from an injury.  Cole hits another triple. Bosh throws some impressive steps on the defense but gets called for a travel. LeBron races down the  court towards  the rim with the defense side-by-side on his right-wing; jumping along with LeBron but the 6 ‘ 8 ” LeBron protects the ball up to the rim.   A shift in energy allows Portland to capitalize on the Heat’s missed opportunities (32-26).  LeBron hits a long 3 as Q 2 comes to an end. Bosh  aggressively attacks the rim but draws a foul attempting the rebound. The game gets more physical.  D. Wade heads to the rim but a  quick  pass allows Bosh to slam (48-38).  D Wade hustles for the rebound and a long pass intended for LeBron gets nicked by Portland but lands in the hands of LeBron who takes it up and swings from the rim. Wade with an over-the-shoulder right hook hits 2, just seconds before half-time.

Q3 Wade explodes to the rim with a slam (56-44). Cole hits another triple, but the Trail Blazers play catch up. A right cut to Ray Allen sends  the Heat up 72-65. Then Mike Miller  hits a triple giving the Heat a  77-65 lead.

Q4 drains the Heat’s energy, along with its lead, but the Trail Blazers up the ante with energy, momentum and physicality. Heat’s lead drops to 3, with 4:12 in Q4. Then a Heat turnover ties the game (82-82). A cross court pass from LeBron to Ray Allen adds 3 to give Miami a lead. Udonis Haslem saves the rebound to Ray Allen, then Bosh hits a 20-footer to take back Miami’s lead (87-84).

With 1:36 left the Trail Blazers speed up the game. 1:05 Q4. Westley Mathews # 2 in the corner hits 3 to tie the game with 40 seconds. Mathews hits another 3 to give the Trail Blazers a one-point lead with  22 seconds (91-90). With 10 seconds left the Heat is so close and yet so far. When the curtain falls, the Heat is down 90-92.

The Heat is  playing its practice game, but that’s not a winning game plan. What you did three years ago won’t work today. You’re playing a  Baby Boomer game against the Y Generation.

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Miami Heat wins over the Milwaukee Bucks but it was Udonis Haslem’s night

It was the night before Thanksgiving and all in the Heat’s house were on their feet giving thanksgiving to LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh and Ray Allen for making 97 of the Heat’s 113 points to win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Fans stood in awe giving praise to Udonis Haslem as the franchise leader in rebounds, overtaking Alonzo Mourning with 4,814 rebounds.

While praises rang for UD,  in our hearts we will never forget that tiger Zo who jumped up for the rebound and came back down roaring. ”We still love you Zo.” And many thanks to Zo’s wife, Tracy who works tirelessly with the Honey Shine Program, a non-profit that exposes young girls to things they may never otherwise experience. When you really look back on it, the things we were exposed to in our childhood are what make us the men and women we are today.  Fathers take great pains to look out for their sons who carry their legacy, while moms worship their sons. But who looks out for the daughters. I toured with the Honey Shines girls during the summer and watched as they ran and found their favorite player on the Heat’s Championship Hall in the American Airlines Arena, then stood in awe taking their pictures with their favorite player and with the Heat’s 2012 Championship trophy.

We are thankful to the Honey Shine Program for exposing our daughters to experiences they may not otherwise have.  Consider opening your checkbooks to contribute to a worthy cause at this time of giving.  Don’t worry, the fiscal cliff is not as bad as

it seems.  Just think, before 2010 the capital gains tax rate was twenty percent.  Then it went down to fifteen percent.  What’s the big deal if the capital gains rate for long-term gains goes back up to twenty percent. Those, like me,  who benefit from the stock market and other long-term investments will pay a little more.

Another impact if Congress does nothing is that employees will pay two percent more in their FICA and social security tax rates; this does not explain why employers are going out of business.

About the issue of higher tax on dividends, be grateful that you don’t have to work for dividends, your money works for you, be thankful even if your dividends are now taxed like wages.

About that issue of the top income tax rate, consider that in 2003, the top income tax rate went down to thirty-five percent. However, from 1993 to 2001, the top income tax rate was over thirty-nine percent.  From 1982 -1986 it was fifty percent. From 1964 to 1980 it was seventy and seventy-one percent and from 1950 to 1963 it was ninety-one and ninety-two percent.) What’s the big deal if the top income tax rate goes back up from thirty-five to thirty-nine percent, to stabilize the economy.   Now about that five million in assets that currently gets excluded from estate taxes when you die,  that will drop to one million if Congress takes no action. That would hurt more of the middle class. My solution, under Vera’s Tax Plan, is to change that figure to 2.5 million. I think that would  bring revenue into the U.S. Treasury, while allowing a fair number of U.S. taxpayers to exclude the value of their homes and personal assets from estate taxes.

Now about that thirty-five percent estate tax rate that will go to fifty-five percent if nothing is done, how about splitting that right down the middle to make it 42.5 percent until some of the deficit is paid off, then the issue can be revisited.  See how easy it was to solve this so-called fiscal cliff?

Now about controlling the spending, it would be good if we can all make a pledge to whatever higher power we believe in (and if none, then to yourself)  that we will each be financially responsible for ourself, our family, our businesses, and any other funds over which we are responsible.  Especially,  funds that belong to others.

For all the benefits we receive for living in this great country, it should be an honor to give something back. I don’t think people really expect to reap all the benefits, yet, make no contribution to keep that benefit flowing. The tax code was first implemented in the United States to fund the war. In the first four decades of this century, those who received the war contracts in the U.S. had to pay the most taxes because they reaped the most benefits. If they didn’t want to pay the taxes, it was simple, they gave up the contracts. Now you tell me, who gives up making money, simply because they have to pay back a fair share for the benefit of making that money. Franchise owners  understand that they have to pay back a fair share to the franchisor,  from whom they receive the contract that allows them to be in business. They understand that even in these difficult times when the business is struggling financially and funds are tight, the franchise must still pay the franchise fee.

Funds are tighter today for everyone, but that is exactly why it is crucial to be financially responsible; to understand that when the income drops you have to drop expenses proportionately.  I think people who complain about this fiscal cliff are really concerned about people in positions of power, those at the helms of leadership with responsibility over millions and billions of dollars that belong to others, being asleep at the wheel, like the Titanic ship that eventually went down.  Just imagine if each of the six billion people in the world today, stood at the edge of a fiscal cliff and pledged to be financially responsible for one person – that person in the mirror. Nothing would go over the cliff, not in the U.S. or in Greece.

Without being required to give equal weight to both points of view, I somewhat understand those who say, that conflict and destruction stimulates growth (although I do not agree that if there is peace in the world everyone would live in poverty).  While I hate to admit it, I guess I would have to agree, that with all the destruction and unfortunate effects of Hurricane Sandy, it is, in fact, stimulating the building economy in New York.

My heart goes out to those who are experiencing Sandy’s devastating effects on this Thanksgiving Day. Know that the sun always comes out after the rain and no matter what you lost, there is always something for which to give thanks. (Read my book Sink or Swim, part of which was written through “automatic writing”; I was writing in a legal pad one night and fell asleep. When I awoke in the morning, the entire pad was filled with a story, now a powerful chapter in my book. I don’t know where it came from, it must have come from a higher power ).

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Miami Heat Champions against Boston

Q1 tip-off goes to Rajon Rhondo, but Chris Bosh cut him off with a block.  Heat shot 51 percent in Q1, with 3-point shots by LeBron, Shane Battier and Ray Allen. the Miami Heat trailed for a short period in Q1 but an alley hoop from LeBron to Wade gave the heat a 17-20 lead.    By the end of the game when Miami Heat Champions walked away with a ring and a 107-120 lead Rondo was so geared up he wanted to pull Wade’s head off to stop Wade from reaching the rim in the final seconds of the game. It was probably too late then.   Kevin  Garnett gave Ray Allen a cold shoulder but Allen said, “He’s cool, that’s my boy.”  Q1  Shane Battier # 31 hits 3 (0-3), then comes back and hits another 3 as the fans shout, “Let’s go Heat.” Paul Pierce hits 3 and LeBron James follows up with 3 (5-5). Battier adds 3 from corner (10-8). LeBron throws an alley-hoop pass to Wade at the rim (17-20).  Ray Allen crosses the line to acknowledge his old team mates, but Kevin Garnet is ice cold (may be it’s the chill of Hurricane Sandy). Allen maintains his cool, steps on the court and hits his first 3-pointer  (23-27) giving Miami a 4-point lead over Boston.  Allen with a rebound goes to the rim but gets hacked by  Paul Pierce. At the line Allen’s  new fans embrace him shouting, “We love Ray.” In Q2 Rashard Lewis hits his first 3 (28-25). Boston steals on a bad in-bound,  but the Boston offense runs smack into Udonis Haslem # 40 and he puts a stop to that.  Norris Cole # 30 comes out hitting a 3 (31-40). Mario Chalmers  with tight defense on Pierce and cheers from the fans gets hit with a foul, but its okay (38-41). The Boston Celtics go on a 11-2 run with Paul Pierce screaming all over the court. LeBron takes a pass from Chris Bosh and makes a slam (44-46).  Allen adds 3 (44-49), then Mario, alley hoops to Bosh at the rim for 2 (44-51). Rondo gets inside to the rim (46-51).  LeBron in the air, on a fade-away turn, gets the shot and the foul (50-53). Chalmer’s shot gives the Miami Heat a 15-point lead (76-51). Rondo’s behind-the-back pass gets striped away by LeBron. When Wade goes to the rim, a technical foul gets called on Rondo (89-102). After getting a 19-point lead LeBron goes to the locker room with a cramp. While he’s away, Barbosa gets hot, cutting the Heat’s 19-point lead to a 4-point lead with minutes in the game. The Miami Heat Champions hang on to their lead and close the game with a final score 107-120.

 

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Team USA brings home the Gold

LeBron James adds a Gold Medal to his 2012 NBA Championship and MVP Awards . Kevin Durant walks away with a Gold Medal and the highest number of points, surpassing Spencer Haywood, Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan.  Kobe Bryant walks away from his last Olympic game with a Gold Medal and heads back home to align with the newest member of his LA Lakers team, Dewight Howard. Anthony Davis playing in his first Olympics as a recent member of the NBA snatches the final rebound to secure Team USA’s 107-100 win against Spain. Davis adds a Gold Medal to his 2012 NCAA Championship.  Team USA members Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Tyson Chandler, James Harden, and Russel Westbrook all contribute tremendous athletic ability to bring the Gold back to the USA. This team will go down in history for breaking a world record with the most shots ever scored (156) in an Olympic Men’s Basketball game.

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Oklahoma City Thunder v Miami Heat – NBA Championship Game 4 – 6/19/2012

The American Airlines Arena has three flames burning bright. Heat takes the tip-off sending Chris Bosh to the rim. Kevin Durant responds with 2.  Oklahoma is shooting and defending. The Heat has not yet gotten in the zone. Durant nearly loses control of the ball. “Hey, guys, get that ball.” Tight defense on the Heat and  Westbrook’s 3 for 3 puts Oklahoma up 13-3. LeBron gets his own rebound and puts it back (13-5). Westbrook hits his 4th triple (15-5). “Oh boy.” Wade goes to the rim where he meets Serge Ibaka with a block and goal tend. A slam by the Thunder goes the other way, then Wade with a quick pass to LeBron under the rim at other end adds 2 (15-10). there is a chill in the Arena as the Thunder out-hustles the Heat. Bosh cuts to the basket (17-12). Heat’s ball is stolen but Chalmers gets a block then hustles back down to the other end to put a stop to Durant’s shot. Wade inside is blocked by Collison who is playing ball like his life depends on this game (21-12). Heat spends a little too much time being upset over no-calls (23-12 Q1 3:17) Wade is sweating. Norris Cole makes it through the defense for a lay up (27-14). Bosh tips in 2 (29-16). Durant throws 3 but Miller out jumps for the rebounds. After a 24-second violation, Durant scoots through the  back door for 2. Cole hits 3 as Q1 comes to an end. Thunder lead 33-19.

Q2 Fisher gets striped by Norris Cole. Jump ball. The ref bounces and bounces and bounces, Hey, come on already. Will you throw the ball up and quit jerking us around.”  Thunder gains 2, LeBron adds 2. Now a steal and pass to Wade at the other end quickly sheds  7 off the Thunder’s lead (33-27). Sefolosha hustles to block a Heat lay up, sending the ball out-of-bounds (33-26). James Jones hits 3 with fans are shooting, “Let’s Go Heat.”(33-29). Chalmers gets to the basket and draws a foul to make it a 2-point game. Westbrook hits the first 2 points in Q2. Wade hits 3 to tie the score 35-35. The house is on fire shouting, “Defense.” Wade goes up but Serge Ibaka blocks. Wade hits the floor on his back, I can feel his pain as he slowly gets up, while the Thunder gains 2 at the other end. The points hurt more than the fall. Chalmers gets warmed up hitting 3 (40-38). Chalmers picks up a 3rd foul and goes to the bench with 6 minutes in Q2. Ibaka’s shot goes in and out with Wade all over him. LeBron at the top of the lane goes in with his shoulder down then leaps up to the rim and adds 2 (41-40). Harden is wide open for 3. He misses but gets his own rebound, then misses again. Bosh dives to the floor after the ball, Ibaka crashes on top as Bosh calls a time out. Bosh climbs off the floor, but he comes back and explodes to the rim. Durant drives to the rim sending Bosh to the floor. After a race around in circles Westbrook pulls up with the shot clock winding down and hits 2. LeBron spins pass Sefolosha and gets to the rim (45-44).  Sefolosha’s shot slowly rims out but Westbrook flies in to put it back, then hangs from the rim. Wade off the baseline gets his 10th point (47-46). Thunder holds a 3-point lead at the half (49-46).

Q3 Wade goes to the line and 2. Bodies are flying. Chalmers attempts 3, the rebound goes to LeBron then back to Wade for 2 to give Miami the lead (49-50). Sefolosha is wide open but misses 3. Durant, off-center picks up his 2nd foul. Bosh drives in but gets hit by an ambush team. He gives Miami a lead from the line (54-55). Wade pulls up on a jumper sending Miami back up 1 (56-57). Tangled up Ibaka takes LeBron to the floor, but LeBron gets up and goes straight to the rim (60-59). At the line Wade puts Miami up 60-61. Bodies are all over the place. Chalmers hits a 3 from half-way down the block. Yeah. (60-64). Westbrook gives LeBron an 8th rebound. Serge Ibaka,  illegal screen on the baseline sends the Thunder’s ball to the Heat. Chalmers drops a high arking 3 (60-66). Thunder responds with 2. When Harden gets fouled on Wade’s fake, frowns of frustration show on the faces of the Thunders bench. Under the rim Wade gets ambushed but passes to Battier outside the line for 3. Dead on target, Durant responds (68-71  Q3 3:22). Fisher knocks down LeBron but goes down with him - slow getting up.  Where’s that Thunder? LeBron gives Miami its largest lead of the night (68-75 2:20 Q3). The Heat has had its moments of frustration at the calls, now the Thunder is breaking down over no- calls. Westbrook is hot, but not this time. He drives to the basket but it doesn’t go. Harden picks up his 4th foul sending LeBron to the line (72-77). The Thunder’s 6th turnover allows LeBron to give the Heat its largest lead of the night.

Q4 Harden steals  but Wade with a rebound allows Chalmers to deposit 3 (79-82). The house explodes when Chalmers comes right back and hits another 3, then rolls in a floater for 2. Westbrook is hot responding to everything the Heat shoots. (83-87). Wade pulls up  giving Miami a 7-point lead. Westbrook answers (85-90 Q4 7:01). Westbrook with the last 11 points for the Thunder closes the Heat’s lead to 2 (88-90). Blocking Westbrook, Wade gets a foul and Westbrook ties the score (90-90 6:02). One rebound away from a triple double, LeBron’s leg is not responding as he dribbles down to the floor, cramping with pain. At the other end Wade blocks and sends the ball back to LeBron. Keeping his eye on the prize, while his body is in pain LeBron throws up and banks 2, then goes to the bench in excruciating pain. Five minutes remain in Q4. The Heat lead by 2 (90-92). LeBron, limps back into the game and drives 3 to give Maim a 3-point lead (94-97). On a crucial play, Durant loses the ball to the Heat. Wade makes a power drive to the basket giving the Heat a 5-point lead (94-99). Again on a crucial play, Durant misses. Flying out-of-bounds, Wade pushes the ball to Bosh, but Westbrook intercepts and lays it in (96-99). On a past from Wade to Bosh, Durant draws a foul (1:20 95-99). LeBron is moving slow, in clear pain, but the DNA of a champion, LeBron’s heart is determined and his mind says go. Chalmers gets inside against 3 defenders and banks 2 with 44 seconds. That brings relief to LeBron’s pain. LeBron is down but Chalmers steps up. That’s what team work is all about. Westbrook makes a final drive leaving the Thunder down 3 (98-101). Haslem forces a jump ball. Bounce, bounce, “O, boy, here we go again.”  The jump ball goes in favor of the Heat. LeBron James sits rocking on the floor as Chalmers steps up and delivers. Miami walks away with a 3-game lead. Final score 98-104.

There is no question that LeBron James has the DNA of a champion. But for most champions, the first major win is always the hardest. The biggest challenge is not the lack of practice or experience. The greatest opponent is the one within. It’s that little voice from the past, asking, “Are you ready?” It gets in the way. Cramps might be a sign of dehydration, needing fluids or magnesium, too much uric acid in the body, but why now?

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Oklahoma City Thunder v Miami Heat – NBA Finals – 6/17/2012 – Game 3

Heat holds on to its lead in an emotional roller coaster ride to the last minute. Determined and refusing to disappoint their fans they come out a winner .  Like the stock market hinging on what happens in Greece,  creating volatility in the VIX, game 3 hinged on which team could gain the lead at the end of 48 minutes. Two superpowers competing for the prize.  I couldn’t watch the Thunder with one eye because I needed two eyes to keep up with the Heat.

From the beginning tip-off the Heat is off to the races. American Airlines Arena is filled with white-hot heat. A pass from Wade puts the Heat on the score board 0-2.  Thabo Sefolosha  # 2 quickly climbs into the paint to respond with 2 (2-2). Mario Chalmers’s past to Dewayne Wade makes it to the rim (4-4). Chris Bosh is tied up in the paint to prevent him from getting the rebound (4-4). Bosh sets up a screen to the rim. A turnover sends Wade to the rim (4-8). Heat’s shot is off, LeBron James under the rim gets assaulted by 3 defenders with arms and legs flying as he puts the rebound back (4-10). Wade contests Russel Westbrook’s shot, but Westbrook wins that debate. Kevin Durant # 35 challenges LeBron’s shot but LeBron walks away the victor with 2 (8-12). Durant gets a break on a Heat turnover and adds 2, to even the score (12-12). An outstanding pass from Wade to Bosh results in 2 (12-14). An offensive foul puts a stop to the Thunder’s lightning streak. Super fantastic passes and a cut to the rim takes Miami up 4 (12-16). LeBron hits 2. Norris Cole, energized, goes over the top, the backboard that is. Durant stretches his octopus arms and finishes with 2 (16-18). Bosh goes up but Mike Miller # 13 completes the shot. James Harden pulls the emergency brakes on LeBron, stopping him from the shot. Nick Collison fouls Mike Miller sending Miller to the line for 2 (18-22). Miller takes a hit from Collison, Miller hits the floor, and Collison hits the rim. It’s no good. LeBron gives the Thunder a dose of its own medicine, a lightning streak straight to the rim for 2 (18-24). Collison picks up a 2nd foul with 7 seconds as Udonis Haslem attempts to go to the rim. Q1 ends Miami up 6 (20-26).

Q2 Sefolosha under the rim gets away from ’LeBron’s attempted steal (22-26). LeBron dives for the rebound. On the sidelines Thunder Coach Scott Brooks gets a technical for his passion (22-28). Wade puts a stop to the Thunder’s shot. At the other end Collison picks up a 3rd foul allowing the Heat 2 at the line (24-30). Miller picks up a 3rd foul and takes a hard hit from Harden. Ouch, that hurts (27-30). A travel by sefolosha gives the Heat a break but it does not convert to a sale, Harden gets the rebound (27-30). Chalmers shoots, Bosh jumps for the rebound but gets fouled coming down. LeBron, with a rebound under the basket gets ambushed in the forest trying put it back. Mario Chalmers explodes with a steal and pass to LeBron who sends a field goal to Wade at the other end for 2. Sweet (31-33). Smooth pass from Bosh to Wade for 2. Derek Fisher # 37 fires up 3 (34-35). Kendrick Perkins # 5 at the line gives the Thunder a one-point lead (36-35). Wade under the rim jumps for 2 and gets fouled for a 3-point play (35-38). Durant over LeBron adds 2 to tie the score. A  24-second violation stops them and keeps the Heat down by 1 (39-38). Durant comes back with 2 (41-38), but Battier churns 3 to tie the score 41-41. Racing to the rim a Thunder steps on the tracks and almost gets electrocuted with a foul giving LeBron a 3-point play (41-44). Westbrook pumps 2.  A quick pass from Wade, gives Battier a chance to hit 3. Westbrook responds with 3 as the half-time buzzer goes off. Heat leads by 1 (46-47)

Starting out the gate, both sides are off in Q3. Wade gets his rhythm, at the line giving the Heat a 3-point lead (46-49). Durant picks up a 3rd foul. Bosh shoots in but the ball decides to rim out. Rushed, off-center, and out of the zone, LeBron picks up his first foul. The shot clock runs out. Running down too close to the 24-second shot clock, the Heat is rushing their shots (48-49). Westbrook’s pass sends Oklahoma up by 3 (52-49). Bosh at the line brings Miami within 2. Serge Ibaka is left open and hits 3 (54-51). Westbrook runs into the paint with the ball in his right arm stretched behind his back (a one-arm Rajon Rondo move) then jumps off the diving board and splashes towards the rim for 2. Thunder playing zone against Miami, we falling apart (58-51). Chalmers leaps, “Oh, my God,” but misses the basket (60-51). Now the Thunder is falling apart, a turnover sends a pass from LeBron to Wade, then a race to the rim (60-53). After picking up a 4th foul and sending Wade to the line, Durant takes a seat on the bench with his team up 6 (60-54). LeBron is snatching rebounds. Shane Battier draws a charge against Oklahoma. But Derek Fisher comes back with 3 and draws a foul on Chalmers (64-54). LeBron goes up for a lay-up (64-56). Kevin Perkins misses 2 at the line. (The sunglass kid and his snowman hat is a helpful distraction seated in the background). But that kid can’t stop Perkins from getting 2 rebounds. Battier gets knocked to the floor by Ibaka on a 3-point shot. Q3 3:01 James Jones gets fouled but adds 3 at the line (65-62). Harden hustles through an  obstacle course, extending his arms to draw a foul. Haslem snatches a rebound (66-62). James Harden makes off with a steal, and it’s on. Haslem chases him down. Wade spins then goes airborne for 2,  adding 2 at the line to bring the Heat within 1 (67-66). After a jump ball LeBron hits 3 taking back Miami’s lead (67-69). Q3 ends with the Heat up by 2 (67-69).

Q4 Wade hits 2 but a turnover gives Fisher 2 in the paint (69-71). James Jones, the 3-point shooter does his thing, adding 3. Fisher, thinking he was going to the rim, gets surprised when Haslem blocks, sending the ball somewhere out of the country. Harden lobs to Durant for a slam (73-74). Chalmers drives in and makes 2 (73-76). Harden brings the Thunder within 1 at the line (75-76). Durant and Wade lose their rhythm, in back-to-back plays, Durant missing 2, one is way off. Wade loses the ball at the other end giving Harden a chance to score and take the lead (77-76). Collison fouls LeBron at the line LeBron adds 2 (77-78). Bosh blocks, the Thunder rebounds, then a 24-second violation. A risky pass to Wade makes it to its destination without pirates intercepting. (5:44 77-78). LeBron looks tired, missing the same jump shot a third time. (That late night practicing is catching up. Might consider getting some deep delta sleep, or minute-yoga exercises to give you endurance and keep you in the zone). Wade drives to the rim for 2 and draws the foul (77-81). Thunder turns over the ball but turns up the aggression, blocking Bosh. LeBron rises to the challenge driving like a locomotive to the rim – Durant steps on the train tracks with the train coming. He gets hit and is thrown all the way to the bench with  his 5th foul. 3:25. LeBron drives through Perkins’ roadblock straight to the rim (79-86). Perkins steals from Chalmers giving Oklahoma 2 (83-86). Westbrook hits 3 to bring the Thunder within 1 (85-86). The Heat is on. (I’m exhausted, feeling like I’m in the game – can’t hang out tonight). Bosh adds 2 at the line with 1:19. LeBron is getting the rebounds. Westbrook goes for 2. A blocking foul on Harden trying to stop LeBron (He should know better). With 16 seconds, the players are sweating bullets.   The fans don’t know whether to sit or stand. At the line, Wade adds 2 to secure the lead with 13 seconds (85-91). That remains the final score.

The Thunder walks slowly to the locker room with a look of defeat, but mumbling under their breath, “Don’t count us out”. They walk with their heads down, but don’t underestimate the passion in their hearts. The Thunder is no loser. Don’t play it safe. Things could get ugly. Find the endurance within you to keep grinding. Only 2 games stand in the way of the ultimate prize.