Hail to the Chief!

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El Presidente

This Is Why LeBron James is Better Than Michael Jordan.

Dedication to Mr. Mitchell.

Michael Jordan ruined my childhood. I have a passionate hate for Michael Jordan that I can't equate with anybody else on this planet, maybe Bill O'Reilly. It seems like every year for nearly a decade Michael Jordan came in and stomped on my hopes and dreams of the New York Knicks winning a championship or even getting to the NBA Finals. We had such a great cast; Derek Harper (and Charlie Ward) running the point, John Starks at the 2, Hubert Davis (and Doug Christie) at the small forward position, Charles Oakley and Anthony Ma$on as the enforcers at power forward and led Patrick Ewing leading the charge at center. Michael Jordan didn't care. He came to Madison Square Garden and led the Chicago Bulls to bloody and brutal battles and it seems like he won every game.

Even when he was playing other teams, I wished for pain and suffering to be brought upon by the likes of Anfernee Hardaway, Steve Smith, Grant Hill, anybody!! Nobody could stop him. Maybe as a kid, I couldn't differentiate anything, so it was all pure hate even amongst the awe. Growing up though, I began to respect his trade. His remarkable defense, his cut-throat offense, His ability to gather his teammates like soldiers and have them play there roles and answer his call when he needed. Even in his older days as a Washington Wizard, he was able to pull together the likes of Richard Hamilton, Larry Hughes and Juan Dixon, and even Jared Jefferies.

Now picture Michael Jordan about 70 lbs. bigger with hype surrounding him as an 18-year old, as a number 1 pick. There you have LeBron James. LeBron came into the league as a puny kid, won a Rookie of the Year award and in 3 years (as a 21 year old) took his team to the NBA Finals.

Let me remind you who Michael Jordan had the honor of playing with in his career. Craig Hodges, Bill Cartwright, Scottie Pippen, Steve Kerr, Dennis Rodman, Toni Kukoc and Ron Harper. Given, none of these guys (except for Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman) had any sort of real star-ability but these are way better players than LeBron James has ever played with. With the exclusion of Mo Williams, none of these guys on this years (or 2003-04's) Cleveland Cavs team would be a starter on a championship team. Delonte West was basically let go from a struggling Boston Celtics team, Ben Wallets was driven out of Chicago, Joe Smith would probably be coming off the bench for a team like the Spurs, Lakers, etc.. What's even more ridiculous is that had the Cavs not begun resting their players towards the end of the season, they would have the best home record of all-time (they finished 39-2), Do you whom else shares that record? That's right, the mighty 1995-96 Chicago Bulls team, the team that won 72 games.

Yeah, that team that started Ron Harper, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman and Luc Longley. A team eons better than this Cleveland Cavs team and it wasn't only because of Michael Jordan, it was because of the squad he led. Michael Jordan had the uncanny ability to make his team better with his presence, not that too many of them needed it (Scottie Pippen in his own right, could have been the franchise player on any other team) but LeBron James has done a better job at it considering he's only 24 years old at the moment. Just like His Airness, LeBron steps up facets of his game every season. So far: his defense, which was a huge question his first couple of years in the league. He's obviously not at the level MJ was in the prime of his career, but don't be surprised if he gets there. His FT% which was in the high 60's last season and now he's hovering a bit over 80%. Again, he's only 24.

LeBron James is taking a team that without him, would probably be counting ping-pong balls awaiting the draft lottery for a walk in the park during this entire season and now these NBA Playoffs. He's tearing down scoring records that Kobe Bryant posted only a few years ago at a record pace. He's already led a sub-par Cleveland Cavs team to the Finals and is putting on amazing performances night after night. LeBron has a goal in mind that MJ never touched; and that's averaging a triple-double for the season. As hard as it is, 'Bron has shown the ability throughout the season and wouldn't be a surprise if he does it next season (or the year after). He has the amazing ability to play nearly every position and being the freak of nature that he is, is able to dominate whoever it is that he's matched up against.

LeBron is about to win his first MVP award of his career. Michael Jordan had 5. One down, four to go.. he's 24... and only getting better... and hasn't even hit his peak. His only real competition is Kobe Bryant who, although you wouldn't be able to tell, is beginning the decline of his career. Kobe has gone away from the 'full-time scorer' position to more of a facilitator, being able to distribute the ball, which is at the end, the best for his team. All tangible records aside, you would have to be in denial if you don't believe LeBron isn't going to dominate the league for the next ten years. Hypothetically speaking, imagine LeBron coming to the New York Knicks and the Knicks still having enough money to afford another big-time star (say a Chris Bosh or Dwayne Wade). A duo of LeBron + Wade or Bosh while surrounded by decent players and coach like Mike D'Antoni would wreak havoc on this league. LeBron has the fire in his stomach to win, he wants to win bad and he wants to win NOW. The Cavs haven't faced too many deficits this season, and when they have, LeBron and Co. have come back the next game and reminded everyone that this isn't a dog and pony show.

I don't believe LeBron will be able to win six NBA titles, the chances of that happening aren't likely but with his talent combined with some above part talent, there's no reason why I should think that it isn't possible. Scoring titles will be locked down, spots on the NBA First Team All-Defense will come, All-Star appearances are guaranteed. LeBron James is the human version of the Greek mythological figure, Atlas. He has the world on his shoulders and it's a matter of time before everyone else realizes that this isn't a Chriss Angel fluke.

Welcome to the LeBron James Show. Witness history.

One of the Best Cereal Commercials Ever

I rarely remember cereal commercials, but this one is pretty memorable.

Y'all Stay On My Meat

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

For My Seinfeld Enthusasts

This gave me a case of the lols. Helloooooooooo

Where Amazing Happens

So this weekend marked the tip-off of the NBA Playoffs. Few things inspire me to get off my laziness and right with a fire burning but the NBA is certainly one of the few. The NBA in general is one of my earliest memories of life, happiness, excitement and all that jazz. And the NBA Playoffs is when the true amazement of the NBA occurs. No more taking plays off (by the entire Clippers team) or uncalled for shots (by Gilbert Arenas.. ha!). Let the drama begin.

I know the first game of each series is done with but I'll be writing as if I haven't seen them.

Eastern Conference

Cleveland Cavaliers (1) vs. Detroit Pistons (8) - This is the easiest pick of the entire playoffs. If its not a sweep, it'll be a disappointment. The only reason I'm tuning in is to see how many points LeBron James can rack up in an encore of last season. This Cavs team may lack superstar power outside of LeBron James but what they lack in star-power is made up by chemistry. This roster knows one another like the back of their palm. As much as I dislike Mo Williams, his addition has made all the difference and given LeBron someone to pass to who he can be confident can make an open jumper (ahem, Damon Jones?). Add veteran leadership from Joe Smith who has shown some signs of his younger days and an entire squad full of role players who know their roles (again, ahem.. Damon Jones?), this team can go far.

On the other hand, the Pistons look like the opposite of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Absolutely no cohesion or chemistry going on in that locker room, or the hardwood for that matter. If somehow they can pull it all together, Rasheed can get his shooting stroke together, Rip Hamilton looks like the Rip Hamilton that played while Chauncey was still in the Motor City and Will Bynum (who I am now a believer in) can put on a 'Will Bynum' performance, maybe the Pistons can scrap together ONE win. This off-season must bring some better players in, with some of the other players leaving and signing a difference making free-agent for the cap-space you get from Allen Iverson's contract.

Cavaliers win 4-0

Atlanta Hawks (4) vs. Miami Heat (5) - Let me start by stating my dislike for Dwayne Wade. I cannot stand the man. That championship he won with Shaq was a sham. I'll agree that he should be in MVP talks but there's no way a player on the number five seed deserves it. But to state my case as unbiased as possible, this Miami team is fairly impressive for a team who won only 15-games a year removed. Aside from Dwayne Wade though, there isn't a soul on the Heat squad that will make this the least bit competitive series. Wade maybe be able to bear the task of taking this team on his shoulder with the help of the home crowd and winning one in Miami but the Atlanta Hawks are just too strong of a team. In fact, they're only getting better as the years come along (check their record for the past 5 years). Too many threats are sitting on the perimeter with Mike Bibby and Joe Johnson, and both has the ability to penetrate inside and lay it down. Josh Smith is a beast protecting the paint with help from Marvin Williams. The Hawks are my sleeper pick this year, but if it adds up right, they'd face Cleveland in the next series...

Atlanta wins 4-1

Orlando Magic (3) vs. Philadelphia 76ers (6)

This one just seems unfair. I'm aware that the 6ers have been a good team in the second half of the season but people are not giving enough credit to Dwight Howard. With all the studs like Kobe, LeBron and Wade in the MVP talks, Howard doesn't get his slice of the pie. Howard has been an offensive monster while grabbing an amazing 13.8 rebounds per game during the season. The undoubted Defensive Player of the Year gets it done in the paint swatting close to three balls per game (pause) and all while getting it done a weak 59% from the charity stripe. While Kobe, LeBron & D-Whistle get a significant amount of their points nightly, imagine if Howard was a better free-throw shooter. With weapons like Hedo Turkoglu and the trade-deadline acquired street hooper, Rafer Alston aka Skip To My Lou and Rashard Lewis to help him in the backcourt, they should have no problem putting up points against this Sixers team. And the x-factor of the whole series, my nominee for the Coach of the Year, Stan Van Gundy. As much as Shaqtus has given Van Gundy slack for being a 'master of panic', it was Van Gundy's Miami team (not Pat Riley's, as most assume it is) that went to the Finals. Van Gundy is an excellent defensive coach and gets the best out of his players.

The 6ers have an interim coach and the explosive Andre Iguadola on their side. Andre Miller is one of my favorite point guards but I'm not sure if he'll be able to work with this team against this juggernaut of a Magic team. Samuel Dalembert will probably be taken to school by Howard and with Elton Brand out for the year, there aren't enough offensive weapons to get this 6ers team past anyone.

Orlando wins 4-0

Boston Celtics (2) vs. Chicago Bulls (7)

The Celtics took a huge hit right before the playoffs began when they learned Kevin Garnett will miss the entire postseason. That factor alone changed this matchup for me. With KG in the lineup, I would have likely chose the Celtics to win in five games with a hobbling Garnett because his biggest weapon is his intimidation and presence. Now with him out, I'm not sure the Celtics will be able to get it done at all. Paul Pierce, who I regard as the most overrated player in the NBA will only have an aging Ray Allen as his best offensively equipped teammate. If Ray has a weak first round like he did last year, this team will fold. Rajon Rondo definitely doesn't have the offensive weapons to help Pierce out but he's proven he can manage a game well. The Celtics probably have the best bench in the NBA with the likes of Leon Powe, Kendrick Perkins, Eddie House, Stephon Marbury, etc. so they will be a big help to an already pretty good starting lineup.

The Bulls however have shown a lot towards the end of the regular season. Derrick Rose, the Rookie of the Year will probably show that he belongs here. Without KG in the picture, Doc Rivers will actually have to coach this team and won't find an answer for Tyrus Thomas will likely have his way with the Celtics frontcourt with his jumpshooting ability paired with his quickness & explosiveness. With Ben Gordon and Kirk Heintrich on the bench, the Bulls have plenty of offensive firepower to combat the Celtics. Although without Luol Deng, this Chicago team's youthfulness may come in handy when it comes down to it because they have nothing to fear. No one expects them to put up a fight and they can just play like themselves. At the end, Chicago will come out on top behind Derrick Rose.

Chicago wins 4-3

Western Conference

Los Angeles Lakers (1) vs. Utah Jazz (8)

As much as I like the Jazz, this team is going nowhere. They were fighting towards the end of the postseason to not be the 8th seed because that would result in playing the mighty Lakers. They failed at that too but they had good reason to not want to play the Lakers. As much of an unfair matchup series as this is, I think the Jazz will be able to pull off two wins at home, just because they have been one of the best home teams this season. However, Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, the return of Andrew Bynum, Trevor Ariza, etc. will be too much for this Jazz team. If the Jazz earned the 7th seed and played Denver, I may have gave them the upset, but this Laker team is going all the way to the Finals. Let's see if Kobe works on his personal game through this series or promotes his teammates.

Los Angeles wins 4-2

Portland Trail Blazers (4) vs. Houston Rockets (5)


This may be the most exciting series of the whole first round. You have the young Blazers going up against the veteran Rockets. I am a huge fan of this youth movement that the Blazers have managed to pull off. LeMarcus Aldrige may be my favorite power forward under the age of 28 in the league and Brandon Roy is an emerging superstar. With other weapons like Russell Westbrook coming off the bench along with Gred Oden, who should be able to thrive in this series being matched up against Yao Ming which equals to a slow, post up game for Oden which he'll thrive in. This team has everything it needs to success in the playoffs for years to come.

Except experience. The Rockets have experience. Yao Ming has been to the playoffs the past 5 out of 6 years. Ron Artest has reached the playoffs in Indiana on numerous occasions. These two will lead this Rockets team with the likes of Von Wafer, Aaron Brooks, Carl Landry and the player I believe is the most underrated player in the league, Shane Battier past the Blazers. This team can get offense from many different aspects but more importantly has a great defensive squad. The Coach of the Year runner-up, Rick Adelman has been here a ton of times and will be the x-factor when it comes to those game-breaking moments.

Houston wins 4-3

San Antonio Spurs (3) vs. Dallas Spurs (6)

This one is a bit tough to pick due to San An's aging team. Manu has been hurt all season long and Tim Duncan isn't getting any younger. Tony Parker has carried this team most of the season and Michael Finley has had to show signs of his former self in order to get some wins coming down the stretch. However, with the pickup of Drew Gooden and the surprising season from Matt Bonner and already good talent like Roger Mason Jr., Kurt Thomas, George Hill and backup center Fabricio Oberto, this Spurs team has what it takes to take it past this stagnant Dallas Mavericks team.

The Mavs have proven one thing to me year-after-year, they can't win when it matters. They made it to the Finals and lost to D-Whistle and the referees. They follow that up with a first round exit to the Golden State Warriors. They're a great regular season team but can't seem to get it done in the second season. This pick isn't made off any statistical evidence or anything but the Mavs have proven nothing to me, they're just a waste of a playoff seed. Dirk, J. Kidd and Josh Howard better figure it out this season. Rick Carlisle is a great coach and maybe he'll be the difference factor this year, but they'll have to prove my prediction wrong.

San Antonio wins 4-2

Denver Nuggets (2) vs. New Orleans Hornets (7)

Honestly, I didn't even know the Nuggets were the second seed until I saw the brackets. It pains me to see that because that proves that Allen Iverson was in fact the problem with that team and Chauncey Billups is exactly what they needed. Carmelo Anthony will need to put up some superstar performances which he hasn't shown most of his career in order to prove he wasn't a bust as a second pick. Chauncey will easily run this offense with help from 'Melo and J.R. Smith. With Nene, Kenyon Martin and Kleiza holding the fort in the paint, this should be a pretty easy but proving series for the Nuggets.

The Hornets have an uphill struggle ahead for them. This team has been battered by injuries, failed at trading Tyson Chandler and overall the team just doesn't seem to be a cohesive unit under Byron Scott. Chris Paul can't get it done himself.. well maybe for one game he might but not enough to overcome this potent offense of Denver's. Perhaps next year with the help of some new players this team may be a higher seed, but this year just isn't their's.

Denver wins 4-1

I'll give a quick prediction for the rest of the playoffs but I'll hold off on the details til we're actually in the second round.

Atlanta Hawks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers > Cavs
Orlando Magic vs. Chicago Bulls > Magic

Orlando Magic vs. Cleveland Cavaliers > Cavs

-------------------------------------------------------------

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Houston Rockets > Lakers
San Antonio Spurs vs. Denver Nuggets > Nuggets

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets > Lakers

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Lakers vs. Cavs > ???

No pick for that, honestly its a toss up and I'm as excited as you are to see the outcome.

The Cavs Are Ready

Spending Spree!

So I've saved up a lot of money this past couple of months so I decided to splurge a little with my last paycheck.








Vacation pictures coming sometime soon!

What are you, a gay fish?

Peace Y'all

Headed to the Cayman Island's from LaGuardia Airport. I'll get with y'all in ten days.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Party people, in the place to be!

My name is Talib Kweli,
Yo, I got my man on the side of me.
Mos Def-initely, and we are
Black Star!

Baseball '09

To make this real quick, I haven't followed the baseball off-season as closely as I normally do so instead of a detailed analysis like I would, I'll just give my predictions for division winners and wild-cards.

American League East: New York Yankees
American League Central: Minnesota Twins
American League West: Oakland Athletics

American League Wild-Card: Tampa Bay Rays


National League East: New York Mets
National League Central: Chicago Cubs
National League West: Los Angeles Dodgers

National League Wild-Card: Philadelphia Phillies

World Series: New York Yankees vs. L.A. Dodgers

This Is Why I'm Fat

Loosiana Gator Dog

A butterflied Wagyu beef frank stuffed with a melted 3-cheese blend, topped with a tequila-spiked three-bean alligator chili and finished off with sour cream, freshly chopped chives, and crushed Fritos.

Heart Attack Sandwich

Chicken fried steak, chicken-fried bacon, a country sausage, a fried egg, a fried green tomato topped with cheddar cheese and sandwiched between buns toasted in bacon fat, all served with a gravy dipping sauce.

Bacon Cheese Pizza Burger

Giant burger between two large meat pizzas, eggs, bacon, colby and pepper jack cheese.

Lankford's Gluttoneer

Half pound prime rib/sirloin/rib eye patty, american cheese, onions, maple bacon, hot link sausage, ketchup and honey mustard.

OMG... DELICIOUS minus the bacon.



And the coup de grâce.. the meat ship.

The Meat Ship

Made from bacon, sausages, pastry, franks and pork mince.

Feelin' Gay?

I don't feel at all gay admitting that I love the first eight tracks of I Am... Sasha Fierce. This album is fie... tough.

i-candy:

Imagine the damage that could be done. k-os

Welcome to April

March was a terrible month. A lot of schoolwork, a lot of work in general. I'm going to try and update in April a bit more often.

peace,
Mo