Growing up in the biggest city in the world, it was almost a right of passage to attend sporting events and align yourself with a rival team, sometimes influenced by your dad or your older brothers, uncles and even cousins. For me it was the New York Yankees in baseball, the New York Knicks in basketball and oddly enough the San Francisco 49ers in football. I did develop an affinity for the New York Jets since I was pushed in to sides and just wasn't a New York Giant fan, probably due to the inter conference rivalry they had with my Niners. I can remember often going to games and letting the opposing team have it, I mean the things I would say would have earned me a soap sandwich, in my mouth courtesy of my mother had she been present. I learned a lot of these traits from my brothers and friends and followed along as if to keep a tradition alive. But I must admit that listening to fans just spew at players that were of the visiting team, or even at times a player of our own would get me riled up. That is New York. They love you today and would bury you in a heart beat the next if you went 0 for 4 or threw 4 interceptions or went 1 for 12 from the field. You got heckled. Plain and simple. And I remember thinking that it must suck to get badgered by fans day in and day out. Little did I know at that time, years ago, that a heckler would make his way in to my life one day.
A buddy of mine that broke in to the wrestling business before me, but was there with me as I came up the ranks and I have remained friends to this day. Pablo Rodriguez, also known as the ''Mad Whipper Whip'' and I trained together, traveled together and even worked (Wrestled) each other on a couple of occasions. Now Pablo has a radio show that centers around hip hop and is a great listen I may add, http://www.BlogTalkRadio.com/DaBodega, (Now that's a plug for you), and also has a face book page (like almost everyone nowadays has), and we at times write each other updates about our kids and sometimes even sports. It was during one of these updates or posts, that I encountered a man known to few or many as ''the heckler.'' The post centered around Lebron James and his move to the Miami Heat, and the backlash it was receiving from fans, media and even former players. I have been critical of the move for one but an individual by the name of Pops Kehoe challenged mine and every one's stance on the subject. I was quick to engage this stranger with my text book knowledge and flare for the dramatic only to be engaged in to a war of words. Who was this ''Pops'' that dared to challenge a man with a pencil, and a propensity of shutting down hecklers?
The more I engaged this heckler, the more he chose to heckle. He even went as far as to attack my five followers, who receive updates on my blogs and those that chime in every week to get the latest on what I am ranting on. I knew I had to respond. I one upped this ''Heckler'' with my basketball knowledge and proved that the Chicago Bulls had been through two separate three-peat's, including one before the signing of Dennis Rodman. This Pops Kehoe would even the score by calling out my Roy Oswalt article and the discrepancy in the contract that I miss handled and did not source correctly. Then the Terrell Owens sweepstakes became our latest spat, and triggered yet another challenge as to whom would sign him first. I sided that the Cincinnati Bengals would, while ''the heckler'' was sure it would be the St. Louis Rams. Although I had won that debate, something strange began to happen. Not only was I engaging this heckler named Pops Kehoe, but I realized that I was, because I found he indeed knows more about sports than your average Joe. He has passion for baseball and football, listens to talk radio, and even took some shots at my articles for being sports ''fluff.''
Although I disagree about the ''fluff'', I do recognize a heckler when I write to one. Since our last engagements of conversations via Pablo's wall on face book, I have shared with him my affinity for Grey's papaya hot dogs and New York pizza, while Pops has convinced me to take a chance and indulge the possibilities of mustard on a pretzel. It's not a match made in heaven but it's worth the ink this article is written on to say, I have been heckled, and it ain't have bad. We all need some constructive criticism, even if at first we don't necessarily like it, you never know if you'll turn to fluff or blow up back like a grenade. Just like all those star athletes I heckled when I was a kid that kept their cool and performed like the pros that they were, Pops Kehoe and I will have our own story to tell...with no ending in site.
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
The 10 Spot!
I got together with our resident and ''professional'' couch potato Rashad Reed in this installment of the 10 spot. 10 questions, 10 answers given by the man who pulls no punches and tells it like it is. Enjoy this hilarious and shrewd Q and A that this week focuses on MJ and Magics responses to LBJ going to South Beach, Brett Favre, Stephen Strasburg and much much more. Rashad holds back nothing this week and lets some of sports biggest names have it!
EV- Alright Rashad, let us dive right in. What are your thoughts on Micheal Jordan's reaction to Lebron James joining the Miami Heat?
RR- I look at it two ways. One, when the legends speak, you listen, and the other, guys are just looking to get on the news with their opinion. I'm a Heat fan, so of course I like seeing the "Three Kings" together, but as a person who follows sports I'll say this. Kevin Garnett, one of the better NBA players during his career spent more than a decade in Minnesota, getting eliminated year after year in the first round. He showed loyalty by staying, and what did that get him?? Nothing!! He had to go to Boston before getting a ring, but did it at such a young age, to where now hes on his last legs. I don't fault Lebron, but Jordan has to understand, the game is different now, guys don't hate each other anymore, their best friends. Jordan needs to realize the NBA is different now and not question the younger players. We all could question his GM skills, but......Well that's another argument..
EV- Whoa killer, that indeed is talk for another day. And to Magic Johnson's?
RR- Magic Johnson????? LOL!! Didn't this guy have his own talk show back in the day that lasted 3 weeks?? You, sir have no credibility to talk about anyone. I mean yea you didn't play with (cough, cough) Kareem, Worthy, Scott, Cooper to win titles. Hey Magic, why not go sign up for Hooked on Phonics, so we don't have to hear you butcher the English language anymore during the Finals!!
EV- Now that's just wrong Double R! Now moving on to another great point guard, Chris Paul recently divulged his desire to be apart of a contender, and now he wants out of New Orleans. Your thoughts?
RR- CP3 wanting to head to a contender?? All I can say is WOW!! Ive always loved his game and think He and Amare could be a force. I mean he made Tyson Chandler look good and get him a huge contract, what do you think he and Amare would do?? Or even Dwight Howard for that matter... But it goes back to my first point. Guys don't care about loyalty, they want to win, and win now. I cant fault him for that. Go get your ring CP3!
EV- I have to say I would enjoy watching CP3 in NY with Amare as well. Now to boxing, Will Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao ever fight and what do you think is halting talks?
RR- I go both ways on this. Part of me says that Pac-man is dirty, but the other side says that Mayweather is making up an excuse to get out of the fight. I'm gonna go with my gut and say Mayweather knows that he cant beat Pac-man. I mean 68 year old Sugar Shane Mosley almost knocked him down, so I know Pac-Man could knock him out. I don't think we will ever see this fight, which is sad, because it could possibly be the match that makes boxing relevant again.
EV- OK, OK. I am on the fence with that last one, but here is someone who just needs a job. Will Terrell Owens have a team before the start of camp?
RR- Question... How did an unemployed football player get a reality show?? Seems like T.O. is more worried about acting to me right now. Seriously though, I do think its his past that is killing him right now. No one wants that cancer in their locker room. But I bet someone (DA RAIDERS) will take a fly er on him during training camp. AT least they have a QB now, and got rid of Mr PURPLE DRANK!!!
EV- LOL! Speaking of QB's, Brett Favre watch is back in full effect. Excited?
RR- Brett Favre!! If anyone knows me, they know I cannot stand this guy. Ive never seen such a selfish athlete in my life. He knows full well hes going to play this year, but yet we go through this every year. He's the biggest baby in pro sports. 10x worse than T.O. How can anyone on that team take him seriously. While they bust their butts in training camp, hes playing "catch" with high schoolers. Please!! Give me a break. Brad Childress has lost all credibility to me. He should demote himself to assistant head coach, and turn things over to Coach Favre and let him do whatever he pleases. Maybe that will get him into camp earlier. Coach Favre with whistle in hand, having guys run stadium steps or giving him extra push ups. This guy needs to go away forever. The worst teammate ever, and such a Media Whore.
EV- Wow! Tell us how you really feel. On to baseball where Houston Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt wants the 16 Million dollar option on his contract for 2012 to be honored by any team trading for him before he agrees to a move. Smart or dumb?
RR- Roy Oswalt isn't worth 16 million to me....Heck he isn't worth 8 million. When I think of the best starting pitchers in the National League right now, his name doesn't even ring a bell. I think teams trading for him will be making a HUGE mistake. Hes been injury prone over the past 2 seasons, and he doesn't dominate anymore. And you wanna know how I know this??? I had him on my fantasy baseball team last year, and he sucked!!!
EV- I hear that. So with that being said and for argument sake we will leave him out of this question. Stephen Strasburg continues to pitch well. Ubaldo Jimenez continues to struggle. With Josh Johnson, Tim Lincecum, Zack Grienke and the above mentioned all on the table in your fantasy draft, who you taking to start a franchise today?
RR- Strasburg is the real deal, at first I didn't want to believe it, but he is. Guys like John Kruk need to relax though, listening to Kruk you"ll think its a injustice that he isn't in the Hall of Fame yet. I digress.. If I were building a team today, I'd have to go with Josh Johnson. The guy is a stud and has a ERA under 1.70..Are you kidding me under 1.70?? Were going into August and that's his ERA?? I have the pleasure of watching him every 5 days and let me tell you, hes one of the best young pitchers in the game today.
EV- That is an amazing stat. Sticking with baseball, Lou Pinella announced he would retire at seasons end. What is his legacy and have any Lou moments that standout?
RR- Sweet Lou.. When I think of Lou, I think of his blowups, and ejections..Years ago while still the Devil Rays I watched their games, just to see him lose it on the bench, or come charging at an umpire. With him and Bobby Cox retiring we need Ozzie Guillen to step up and fill the shoes of these 2 legends!!
EV- Ozzie always seems to make an appearence when there is talk of blow ups and ejections. Here is a case of rejection though. Reggie Bush is being singled out by USC in their removal of his 2005 Heisman trophy display in response to the universities recent sanctions. Is Bush being treated fairly in all this?
RR- I told Reggie Bush I would make his life a living hell if he dated my ex Kim Kardashian..lol...Seriously, I do think a bit of it is unfair. We all know he wasn't the only one. Everybody, from Lendale White, Matt Leinart, and others enjoyed free items. These guys were at the Playboy Mansion, can you honestly tell me that these guys really went to class at all? They were movie stars in college, and now they wanna lay all blame on Reggie. I'm not siding with Bush, but I think more of the truth needs to come out. And Pete Carroll should be held accountable for what went on. He gets a free pass since he took his "dream job" with the Seahawks...I mean who wants to Coach the Seahawks??? They haven't done anything since making the Super Bowl back in 2005.
There you have it folks! Thanks go out to Rashad Reed for taking the time to answer our 10 hot button questions of the week. Thanks to those that contributed with their inquiries. And as always, thanks to all of our followers for reading, and look out for the next segment of the ''10 SPOT!''
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
EV- Alright Rashad, let us dive right in. What are your thoughts on Micheal Jordan's reaction to Lebron James joining the Miami Heat?
RR- I look at it two ways. One, when the legends speak, you listen, and the other, guys are just looking to get on the news with their opinion. I'm a Heat fan, so of course I like seeing the "Three Kings" together, but as a person who follows sports I'll say this. Kevin Garnett, one of the better NBA players during his career spent more than a decade in Minnesota, getting eliminated year after year in the first round. He showed loyalty by staying, and what did that get him?? Nothing!! He had to go to Boston before getting a ring, but did it at such a young age, to where now hes on his last legs. I don't fault Lebron, but Jordan has to understand, the game is different now, guys don't hate each other anymore, their best friends. Jordan needs to realize the NBA is different now and not question the younger players. We all could question his GM skills, but......Well that's another argument..
EV- Whoa killer, that indeed is talk for another day. And to Magic Johnson's?
RR- Magic Johnson????? LOL!! Didn't this guy have his own talk show back in the day that lasted 3 weeks?? You, sir have no credibility to talk about anyone. I mean yea you didn't play with (cough, cough) Kareem, Worthy, Scott, Cooper to win titles. Hey Magic, why not go sign up for Hooked on Phonics, so we don't have to hear you butcher the English language anymore during the Finals!!
EV- Now that's just wrong Double R! Now moving on to another great point guard, Chris Paul recently divulged his desire to be apart of a contender, and now he wants out of New Orleans. Your thoughts?
RR- CP3 wanting to head to a contender?? All I can say is WOW!! Ive always loved his game and think He and Amare could be a force. I mean he made Tyson Chandler look good and get him a huge contract, what do you think he and Amare would do?? Or even Dwight Howard for that matter... But it goes back to my first point. Guys don't care about loyalty, they want to win, and win now. I cant fault him for that. Go get your ring CP3!
EV- I have to say I would enjoy watching CP3 in NY with Amare as well. Now to boxing, Will Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao ever fight and what do you think is halting talks?
RR- I go both ways on this. Part of me says that Pac-man is dirty, but the other side says that Mayweather is making up an excuse to get out of the fight. I'm gonna go with my gut and say Mayweather knows that he cant beat Pac-man. I mean 68 year old Sugar Shane Mosley almost knocked him down, so I know Pac-Man could knock him out. I don't think we will ever see this fight, which is sad, because it could possibly be the match that makes boxing relevant again.
EV- OK, OK. I am on the fence with that last one, but here is someone who just needs a job. Will Terrell Owens have a team before the start of camp?
RR- Question... How did an unemployed football player get a reality show?? Seems like T.O. is more worried about acting to me right now. Seriously though, I do think its his past that is killing him right now. No one wants that cancer in their locker room. But I bet someone (DA RAIDERS) will take a fly er on him during training camp. AT least they have a QB now, and got rid of Mr PURPLE DRANK!!!
EV- LOL! Speaking of QB's, Brett Favre watch is back in full effect. Excited?
RR- Brett Favre!! If anyone knows me, they know I cannot stand this guy. Ive never seen such a selfish athlete in my life. He knows full well hes going to play this year, but yet we go through this every year. He's the biggest baby in pro sports. 10x worse than T.O. How can anyone on that team take him seriously. While they bust their butts in training camp, hes playing "catch" with high schoolers. Please!! Give me a break. Brad Childress has lost all credibility to me. He should demote himself to assistant head coach, and turn things over to Coach Favre and let him do whatever he pleases. Maybe that will get him into camp earlier. Coach Favre with whistle in hand, having guys run stadium steps or giving him extra push ups. This guy needs to go away forever. The worst teammate ever, and such a Media Whore.
EV- Wow! Tell us how you really feel. On to baseball where Houston Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt wants the 16 Million dollar option on his contract for 2012 to be honored by any team trading for him before he agrees to a move. Smart or dumb?
RR- Roy Oswalt isn't worth 16 million to me....Heck he isn't worth 8 million. When I think of the best starting pitchers in the National League right now, his name doesn't even ring a bell. I think teams trading for him will be making a HUGE mistake. Hes been injury prone over the past 2 seasons, and he doesn't dominate anymore. And you wanna know how I know this??? I had him on my fantasy baseball team last year, and he sucked!!!
EV- I hear that. So with that being said and for argument sake we will leave him out of this question. Stephen Strasburg continues to pitch well. Ubaldo Jimenez continues to struggle. With Josh Johnson, Tim Lincecum, Zack Grienke and the above mentioned all on the table in your fantasy draft, who you taking to start a franchise today?
RR- Strasburg is the real deal, at first I didn't want to believe it, but he is. Guys like John Kruk need to relax though, listening to Kruk you"ll think its a injustice that he isn't in the Hall of Fame yet. I digress.. If I were building a team today, I'd have to go with Josh Johnson. The guy is a stud and has a ERA under 1.70..Are you kidding me under 1.70?? Were going into August and that's his ERA?? I have the pleasure of watching him every 5 days and let me tell you, hes one of the best young pitchers in the game today.
EV- That is an amazing stat. Sticking with baseball, Lou Pinella announced he would retire at seasons end. What is his legacy and have any Lou moments that standout?
RR- Sweet Lou.. When I think of Lou, I think of his blowups, and ejections..Years ago while still the Devil Rays I watched their games, just to see him lose it on the bench, or come charging at an umpire. With him and Bobby Cox retiring we need Ozzie Guillen to step up and fill the shoes of these 2 legends!!
EV- Ozzie always seems to make an appearence when there is talk of blow ups and ejections. Here is a case of rejection though. Reggie Bush is being singled out by USC in their removal of his 2005 Heisman trophy display in response to the universities recent sanctions. Is Bush being treated fairly in all this?
RR- I told Reggie Bush I would make his life a living hell if he dated my ex Kim Kardashian..lol...Seriously, I do think a bit of it is unfair. We all know he wasn't the only one. Everybody, from Lendale White, Matt Leinart, and others enjoyed free items. These guys were at the Playboy Mansion, can you honestly tell me that these guys really went to class at all? They were movie stars in college, and now they wanna lay all blame on Reggie. I'm not siding with Bush, but I think more of the truth needs to come out. And Pete Carroll should be held accountable for what went on. He gets a free pass since he took his "dream job" with the Seahawks...I mean who wants to Coach the Seahawks??? They haven't done anything since making the Super Bowl back in 2005.
There you have it folks! Thanks go out to Rashad Reed for taking the time to answer our 10 hot button questions of the week. Thanks to those that contributed with their inquiries. And as always, thanks to all of our followers for reading, and look out for the next segment of the ''10 SPOT!''
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Weekly Rant!
Hey sports fans, been a bit but I am ready to rant on what's hot in sports and recap the week that was!
Lebron James has officially put the Brett Favre watch on ice for the first time.... well ever! King James and ESPN put together a one hour special entitled, ''The Decision'', in which James would finally address is pending free agency, and his next stop on a journey he hopes will end with an NBA title. ''It's tough man, but I am taking my talent to South Beach''. And with those words uttered by LBJ, the Miami Heat landed the biggest free agent acquisition in any sport since Reggie Jackson joined the New York Yankees courtesy of George Steinbrenner. Before I use that last line as bridge in to my next topic, predictions for the Heats future with the new big three of Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh and Lebron James? A lot of growing pains, but eventually there will be a happy ending.
New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner passed away Tuesday night at the age of 80 of a massive heart attack. Personally as a big Yankee fan I am saddened beyond belief due to the intense nature of ''The Boss'' and his desire to always field a winner. Not only did Steinbrenner revive a struggling franchise, but he brought controversy, scandal, headlines that defined his era and most importantly pride back to the greatest franchise in all of sports. From his quick trigger finger in firing employees (most notable for managerial changes)to his two suspensions from baseball, George was the face and pulse of Yankee baseball for the last 38 years. Often regarded as a tyrant from outsiders of the Yankee family, seldom is spoken of his giving nature and financial contributions allotted to so many he came in to contact with. Love him or hate him, you would take him as your owner in a heart beat because he cared, he wanted to win and absolutely did nothing but win during his tenure as Yankee owner. Hank and Hal Steinbrenner have HUGE shoes to fill, and if the success enjoyed just a year ago are any indication....good times are ahead!
The Open championship is under way in ST. ANDREWS, Scotland and Tiger Woods seems to be playing better than he has in recent tournaments. Heck even John Daly shot a (66) despite missing some birdies along the way. But the story thus far has been the play of 21 year Rory McIlroy, who entered the record books with a 9-under 63 that gave him a 2-shot lead. Still early in to the weekend but with Woods, Daly and McIlroy setting the tone, Phil Mickleson may have his work cut out as he attempts to win the Open for the first time in his career. This one could go down to the wire.
Finally, I must put my two cents in as Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather camps are ironing out the final stages of a contract that could see the top two fighters in the world face off in the fall. However sources are reporting that if a deal is not struck by the end of this week both parties are moving on to other prospects. Really? What other alternatives are there? It's time fellas. 50/50 split, Olympic drug testing in effect and let's get ready to rumble. This is the fight that could signal the return of boxing to it's rightful place at the top of the fight game. Move on to other things and your insulting fight fans everywhere. Step you game up and get this done.
That is all for this week folks, enjoy the weekend in sports and I will be there next week to give you all...My Weekly Rant!
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
Lebron James has officially put the Brett Favre watch on ice for the first time.... well ever! King James and ESPN put together a one hour special entitled, ''The Decision'', in which James would finally address is pending free agency, and his next stop on a journey he hopes will end with an NBA title. ''It's tough man, but I am taking my talent to South Beach''. And with those words uttered by LBJ, the Miami Heat landed the biggest free agent acquisition in any sport since Reggie Jackson joined the New York Yankees courtesy of George Steinbrenner. Before I use that last line as bridge in to my next topic, predictions for the Heats future with the new big three of Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh and Lebron James? A lot of growing pains, but eventually there will be a happy ending.
New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner passed away Tuesday night at the age of 80 of a massive heart attack. Personally as a big Yankee fan I am saddened beyond belief due to the intense nature of ''The Boss'' and his desire to always field a winner. Not only did Steinbrenner revive a struggling franchise, but he brought controversy, scandal, headlines that defined his era and most importantly pride back to the greatest franchise in all of sports. From his quick trigger finger in firing employees (most notable for managerial changes)to his two suspensions from baseball, George was the face and pulse of Yankee baseball for the last 38 years. Often regarded as a tyrant from outsiders of the Yankee family, seldom is spoken of his giving nature and financial contributions allotted to so many he came in to contact with. Love him or hate him, you would take him as your owner in a heart beat because he cared, he wanted to win and absolutely did nothing but win during his tenure as Yankee owner. Hank and Hal Steinbrenner have HUGE shoes to fill, and if the success enjoyed just a year ago are any indication....good times are ahead!
The Open championship is under way in ST. ANDREWS, Scotland and Tiger Woods seems to be playing better than he has in recent tournaments. Heck even John Daly shot a (66) despite missing some birdies along the way. But the story thus far has been the play of 21 year Rory McIlroy, who entered the record books with a 9-under 63 that gave him a 2-shot lead. Still early in to the weekend but with Woods, Daly and McIlroy setting the tone, Phil Mickleson may have his work cut out as he attempts to win the Open for the first time in his career. This one could go down to the wire.
Finally, I must put my two cents in as Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather camps are ironing out the final stages of a contract that could see the top two fighters in the world face off in the fall. However sources are reporting that if a deal is not struck by the end of this week both parties are moving on to other prospects. Really? What other alternatives are there? It's time fellas. 50/50 split, Olympic drug testing in effect and let's get ready to rumble. This is the fight that could signal the return of boxing to it's rightful place at the top of the fight game. Move on to other things and your insulting fight fans everywhere. Step you game up and get this done.
That is all for this week folks, enjoy the weekend in sports and I will be there next week to give you all...My Weekly Rant!
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
Thursday, July 8, 2010
The 10 Spot!
I got together with our resident and ''professional'' couch potato Rashad Reed in this installment of the 10 spot. 10 questions, 10 answers given by the man who pulls no punches and tells it like it is. Enjoy this hilarious and shrewd Q and A that touches on NBA free agency, the World Cup and much, much more. Enjoy!
EV- The MLB All-Star votes are in and rosters are all but final. Who are your All-Star snubs?
RR- Well, before talking about snubs, I gotta get this off my chest. Can we please take the fan vote out of the equation?? I mean seriously, Yadier Molina voted in as the starting catcher?? Hes batting .229 with 3 home runs..Are you serious?? Look at Jayson Hayward, great story, but the kid is batting .251, there are many outfielders having a better season. JOEY VOTTO....Reached base 41 straight games, .313 ave, 19 HR, 57 RBI, 51 Runs 7 SB, gold glove caliber D......LEADING A FIRST PLACE TEAM!!!!! Biggest snub ever!! Omar Infante???? Omar Infante??? How does he make the all-star team? He must have blackmail photos of Phillies manager Charlie Manuel to pull this off!!
EV- The World Cup final is set, and it pits Spain vs The Netherlands. In the words of Money Mayweather...''Who you picking?''
RR- This is the first World Cup Ive watched, and I must admit, I'm hooked. I'd like to see the Netherlands win on Sunday. Hopefully one day we will see the USA make it to a World Cup final.
EV- OK, OK, OK....So your boy Dwayne Wade swayed arguably this free agents class biggest sidekick. Are the Heat destined to follow in the Boston Celtics shoes and win it all next season?
RR- Hmm....Waiting to see what Le-Diva decides to do. As of right now Wade-Bosh are not enough to win the East. Maybe 4Th best in the East, depending on what guys pat Riley can surround them with. Now I have to say this, I'm a fan of Le-Diva, but seriously?? A hour long special to announce where your going to play?? Jordan never did this. He just said "I'm back". Hes acting like hes the greatest player ever, yet he still hasn't won a NBA Finals game.
EV- Now that Wade and Bosh are secured in Miami, does Pat Riley land the mother load and get Lebron James as well?
RR- OK, let me continue my rant on Le-Diva. If hes serious about winning he will go to Miami, if he wants to continue to feed his ego he will go back to Cleveland. I mean, there is nothing in Cleveland. Are you going to win a title with the disappearing Mo Williams??, or the non-clutch average player Antwan Jamison? But i will say, he should go to the Knicks, that would make the NBA happy, and old school fans happy, the Knicks would be relevant again and you would have the Celtics, Magic, Heat, Bulls, and Knicks all competing for the Eastern Conference.
EV- Kevin Durant wasted no time in signing a contract extension this past week worth a reported $86 Million over 5 years. Based on the hype this free agent off season has incurred, was Durant smart or dumb to sign and not test the market sooner than later?
RR- I love it! Durant showed that he wants to be a part of the monster they're building in OKC. Hes loyal, he wants to win, and he re-signed without any fan fare. One of my top 5 players in the league.
EV- Carlos Boozer has agreed to terms with the Chicago Bulls and join a very talented group of young players. Is that enough to land Lebron James?
RR- LOL!! Carlos Boozer...Ive never liked this guys game. Yea, he puts up 20 points, but he isn't my typical power forward. I like their team with Noah, Rose, and Deng, but I don't think Lebron wants to follow in MJ's footsteps. Oh and did you hear the report of Boozer calling Le-Diva last night?? How'd that convo go..."Hey Le-Diva, I know I promised I'd come back to Cleveland after your rookie season, then turned my back and bounced to Utah, but give me another chance. If i was Le-Diva I would have hit the ignore button when I saw that call coming through.
EV- A'mare Stoudemire is apparently texting and calling Lebron James in the hope to recruit him to the New York Knicks. Good fit for the King?
RR- How do these guys all have each others phone numbers??? I kid, I kid..I think it would be a great fit. James & Amare would be a dynamic duo. I bet David Stern hopes this happens. I want Heat-Knicks again, just like the old days!!!
EV- According to Virginia prosecutors, Micheal Vick was in some sort of confrontation prior to the shooting that occurred at a birthday party held for Vick. Is Vick's future in the NFL quickly coming to an end?
RR- What is wrong with this guy?? I really tried giving him a chance, but why in the hell do you put yourself in a situation like this??You have no margin for error and your going to do something stupid, like inviting the general public to your party?? His younger brother Marcus Vick, got arrested many times while in college and during a brief pro career. Its obvious the Vick boys aren't very smart. Its sad too, very talented players but were given too much while they were younger.
EV- What are your thoughts post UFC 116, and the performance of both Brock Lesnar and Shane Carwin?
RR- Wow!!!! What a fight!! I will admit I was a little shocked that the ref didn't stop the fight in the first round while Carwin was dominating Brock. I'm glad he didn't though. And then the comeback by Brock in the 2ND round!! He's evolving into a real good MMA fighter. He made Carwin tap out!! This guy was just as big as him and he hung in there and won. I have nothing but respect for that.
EV- Perhaps flying under the radar this free agent off season is the Celtics resigning of both Paul Pierce and most recently Ray Allen. Are the C's still a force in the east?
RR- The "old" men have kept most of the team together, but I still think they need to find someone to replace Perkins, who might be out til January or February. Ive heard the Shaq might end up in Boston. If that happens, then yes, they are still favorites in the East. But we all know I will always root against a team led by Paul Pierce..lol
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
EV- The MLB All-Star votes are in and rosters are all but final. Who are your All-Star snubs?
RR- Well, before talking about snubs, I gotta get this off my chest. Can we please take the fan vote out of the equation?? I mean seriously, Yadier Molina voted in as the starting catcher?? Hes batting .229 with 3 home runs..Are you serious?? Look at Jayson Hayward, great story, but the kid is batting .251, there are many outfielders having a better season. JOEY VOTTO....Reached base 41 straight games, .313 ave, 19 HR, 57 RBI, 51 Runs 7 SB, gold glove caliber D......LEADING A FIRST PLACE TEAM!!!!! Biggest snub ever!! Omar Infante???? Omar Infante??? How does he make the all-star team? He must have blackmail photos of Phillies manager Charlie Manuel to pull this off!!
EV- The World Cup final is set, and it pits Spain vs The Netherlands. In the words of Money Mayweather...''Who you picking?''
RR- This is the first World Cup Ive watched, and I must admit, I'm hooked. I'd like to see the Netherlands win on Sunday. Hopefully one day we will see the USA make it to a World Cup final.
EV- OK, OK, OK....So your boy Dwayne Wade swayed arguably this free agents class biggest sidekick. Are the Heat destined to follow in the Boston Celtics shoes and win it all next season?
RR- Hmm....Waiting to see what Le-Diva decides to do. As of right now Wade-Bosh are not enough to win the East. Maybe 4Th best in the East, depending on what guys pat Riley can surround them with. Now I have to say this, I'm a fan of Le-Diva, but seriously?? A hour long special to announce where your going to play?? Jordan never did this. He just said "I'm back". Hes acting like hes the greatest player ever, yet he still hasn't won a NBA Finals game.
EV- Now that Wade and Bosh are secured in Miami, does Pat Riley land the mother load and get Lebron James as well?
RR- OK, let me continue my rant on Le-Diva. If hes serious about winning he will go to Miami, if he wants to continue to feed his ego he will go back to Cleveland. I mean, there is nothing in Cleveland. Are you going to win a title with the disappearing Mo Williams??, or the non-clutch average player Antwan Jamison? But i will say, he should go to the Knicks, that would make the NBA happy, and old school fans happy, the Knicks would be relevant again and you would have the Celtics, Magic, Heat, Bulls, and Knicks all competing for the Eastern Conference.
EV- Kevin Durant wasted no time in signing a contract extension this past week worth a reported $86 Million over 5 years. Based on the hype this free agent off season has incurred, was Durant smart or dumb to sign and not test the market sooner than later?
RR- I love it! Durant showed that he wants to be a part of the monster they're building in OKC. Hes loyal, he wants to win, and he re-signed without any fan fare. One of my top 5 players in the league.
EV- Carlos Boozer has agreed to terms with the Chicago Bulls and join a very talented group of young players. Is that enough to land Lebron James?
RR- LOL!! Carlos Boozer...Ive never liked this guys game. Yea, he puts up 20 points, but he isn't my typical power forward. I like their team with Noah, Rose, and Deng, but I don't think Lebron wants to follow in MJ's footsteps. Oh and did you hear the report of Boozer calling Le-Diva last night?? How'd that convo go..."Hey Le-Diva, I know I promised I'd come back to Cleveland after your rookie season, then turned my back and bounced to Utah, but give me another chance. If i was Le-Diva I would have hit the ignore button when I saw that call coming through.
EV- A'mare Stoudemire is apparently texting and calling Lebron James in the hope to recruit him to the New York Knicks. Good fit for the King?
RR- How do these guys all have each others phone numbers??? I kid, I kid..I think it would be a great fit. James & Amare would be a dynamic duo. I bet David Stern hopes this happens. I want Heat-Knicks again, just like the old days!!!
EV- According to Virginia prosecutors, Micheal Vick was in some sort of confrontation prior to the shooting that occurred at a birthday party held for Vick. Is Vick's future in the NFL quickly coming to an end?
RR- What is wrong with this guy?? I really tried giving him a chance, but why in the hell do you put yourself in a situation like this??You have no margin for error and your going to do something stupid, like inviting the general public to your party?? His younger brother Marcus Vick, got arrested many times while in college and during a brief pro career. Its obvious the Vick boys aren't very smart. Its sad too, very talented players but were given too much while they were younger.
EV- What are your thoughts post UFC 116, and the performance of both Brock Lesnar and Shane Carwin?
RR- Wow!!!! What a fight!! I will admit I was a little shocked that the ref didn't stop the fight in the first round while Carwin was dominating Brock. I'm glad he didn't though. And then the comeback by Brock in the 2ND round!! He's evolving into a real good MMA fighter. He made Carwin tap out!! This guy was just as big as him and he hung in there and won. I have nothing but respect for that.
EV- Perhaps flying under the radar this free agent off season is the Celtics resigning of both Paul Pierce and most recently Ray Allen. Are the C's still a force in the east?
RR- The "old" men have kept most of the team together, but I still think they need to find someone to replace Perkins, who might be out til January or February. Ive heard the Shaq might end up in Boston. If that happens, then yes, they are still favorites in the East. But we all know I will always root against a team led by Paul Pierce..lol
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The Weekly Rant!
Just like all of you sports fans out there, I have been waiting with great anticipation during one of the most memorable free agent off seasons that I can remember. Perhaps ever. A'mare Stoudemire took the plunge first of all the quote, unquote, ''superstars'' hitting the market this off season. The New York Knicks, have at the very least assured themselves of not getting shutout during the current free agent frenzy, while other teams such as the Chicago Bulls, New Jersey Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat are making last ditch efforts to not be left out. In Stoudemire, the Knicks get a proven scorer and rebounder that on any given night can explode for huge numbers and dominate a game. But is it enough to get the Knicks back in to post season play? Probably not. But if New York fails to land Dwayne Wade or Lebron James to join A'mare in the garden, they maybe a year away from really making a splash. Think Carmelo Anthony. However that could just be wishful thinking on my and all Knicks fans part.
So now that A'mare Stoudemire is locked up in New York, the attention now turns to the big three. No not Boston's big three of Pierce, Allen and Garnett, rather the two most sought after ''Batmen'' in Dwayne Wade and Lebron James and one of the latte rs ''Robin'' to be in this equation, Chris Bosh. The consensus is that Bosh will follow James or Wade to Chicago or Wade to Miami. While both options seem the most likely scenario, Bosh to Cleveland does not. Chris Bosh has, according to sources, no interest in playing in Cleveland. And with that minor setback perhaps throwing a wrench in King Jame's plan to stay home, it may help the Knicks land their man. King James to the garden?
So who is going to get shut out of this years free agent frenzy? The Knicks landed A'mare so their good for now but still have work to do. The Bulls seem likely to land Wade or James, hoping to pair either man with Bosh, so they are still in the hunt. Miami cannot seem to get the Toronto Raptors to cooperate on a sign trade for Chris Bosh, ensuring the soon to be former Raptor star a sixth year and an extra 30 Million on a max contract to play in Miami. The Heat seem stalled and at a impasse without that bargaining chip in their favor. The Cavs however have what Toronto wants in trade value, thus opening the door for a sign and trade that could send Chis Bosh to the Cavs. One small problem, Bosh wants no part of Cleveland. So unless Lebron is OK with the way the current roster is holding in Cleveland, the Bulls, Heat and Knicks are all still players in the Wade/James sweepstakes. So with that being said, the losers are....sorry Jay Z, but your New Jersey Nets. No one in this star studded free agent class has any interest in joining a team that still has to wait to relocate to Brooklyn, the teams biggest selling point. But hey they can still land David Lee right!
And finally on something not basketball related, the World Cup. Saw Uruguay and the Netherlands lock horns in the World Cup semi's, and I must say I was really impressed. Very exciting back and forth action with very physical play that turned on a dime once Holland's Stars Wesley Sneijder and Robben scored three minutes apart in the second half as the Netherlands advanced to its first title match since losing in 1978 to Argentina. Tomorrow we will find out who will join the Dutch in the World Cup finals as Spain and Germany square off in the tournament's other semifinal game. Look for the German's hot play of late to continue as they give the Spaniards all they can handle, in what should be the best game of the World Cup so far. With all the around the clock coverage on free agency and the Major League baseball season nearing it's mid-point, the World Cup may provide the lasting drama we all have been craving for since the NBA finals ended. Enjoy and thanks for reading.
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
So now that A'mare Stoudemire is locked up in New York, the attention now turns to the big three. No not Boston's big three of Pierce, Allen and Garnett, rather the two most sought after ''Batmen'' in Dwayne Wade and Lebron James and one of the latte rs ''Robin'' to be in this equation, Chris Bosh. The consensus is that Bosh will follow James or Wade to Chicago or Wade to Miami. While both options seem the most likely scenario, Bosh to Cleveland does not. Chris Bosh has, according to sources, no interest in playing in Cleveland. And with that minor setback perhaps throwing a wrench in King Jame's plan to stay home, it may help the Knicks land their man. King James to the garden?
So who is going to get shut out of this years free agent frenzy? The Knicks landed A'mare so their good for now but still have work to do. The Bulls seem likely to land Wade or James, hoping to pair either man with Bosh, so they are still in the hunt. Miami cannot seem to get the Toronto Raptors to cooperate on a sign trade for Chris Bosh, ensuring the soon to be former Raptor star a sixth year and an extra 30 Million on a max contract to play in Miami. The Heat seem stalled and at a impasse without that bargaining chip in their favor. The Cavs however have what Toronto wants in trade value, thus opening the door for a sign and trade that could send Chis Bosh to the Cavs. One small problem, Bosh wants no part of Cleveland. So unless Lebron is OK with the way the current roster is holding in Cleveland, the Bulls, Heat and Knicks are all still players in the Wade/James sweepstakes. So with that being said, the losers are....sorry Jay Z, but your New Jersey Nets. No one in this star studded free agent class has any interest in joining a team that still has to wait to relocate to Brooklyn, the teams biggest selling point. But hey they can still land David Lee right!
And finally on something not basketball related, the World Cup. Saw Uruguay and the Netherlands lock horns in the World Cup semi's, and I must say I was really impressed. Very exciting back and forth action with very physical play that turned on a dime once Holland's Stars Wesley Sneijder and Robben scored three minutes apart in the second half as the Netherlands advanced to its first title match since losing in 1978 to Argentina. Tomorrow we will find out who will join the Dutch in the World Cup finals as Spain and Germany square off in the tournament's other semifinal game. Look for the German's hot play of late to continue as they give the Spaniards all they can handle, in what should be the best game of the World Cup so far. With all the around the clock coverage on free agency and the Major League baseball season nearing it's mid-point, the World Cup may provide the lasting drama we all have been craving for since the NBA finals ended. Enjoy and thanks for reading.
By Ephraim Vega
-Blog or Bust News-
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