Give us Some Gus (Johnson, that is...)

A month or so back, we threw up a post entitled" Gus Johnson Could Make Curling Fun to Watch." We still believe that. Give the man some mildly competitive NCAA tournament games, and the entertainment value factor goes through the roof.

SI featured the below video today in Hot Clicks that reminded us of the fabulousness of Gus. The esteemed readers of Deadspin agree that Gus Johnson is the shiz-nit.

So, after the tease below, we were only left wanting more. Enjoy you some Gus. March is coming, friends.



It only gets better when you can team that audio and video together. Here's the video that inspired our post from earlier this year.



The final call from UCLA/Gonzaga 2006 tilt.



Unfortunately, embedding has been disabled on this gem from Xavier/Ohio St. Did we mention that we're ready for the tournament? "And we're going to overtime...in Lexington...HA-HA!"

Classic 80s/90s Sports Posters Vol VII: See Dick Run, Barkley Takes on Godzilla

Happy Friday, Legend revelers. We welcome any newbies who might be fresh to the blog from Hot Clicks link to yesterday's post. The Legend is staffed by two thirty-somethings who have plenty of opinions on sports, and its intersection with life and pop culture. Check out some recent creative musings from my partner in crime Erie's Scribe on Shooter McGavin and the strangeness of Leap Years to get a feel.

We also have a mini-tradition here of paying homage to classic 80s/90s sports posters on Fridays. So, without further preamble. From our readers...



Our thanks to Chris for this submissions. His thoughts on the Dickerson classic:

This hung on my walls for about 4 years. I never wised up to the fact that this guy loved the sidelines as much as life itself. I doubt that they'll ever put "See Dick Run" on a poster again. The Barbaro reference is nice. Enjoy.

Here's a second beauty from Filtering Craig:

It was a commercial. It was a shoe. It was a poster. It pitted everyone's favorite scary Japanese, fire-breathing, miniature-scale model terrorist lizard against ... ... Godzilla. Wait a minute, I mean against Charles Barkley. Cheesy jokes aside, I remember all this so well. I think I bought this poster in the mall at Spencers out of one of those racks that you spoke of. I also bought some of that crazy blue tacky stuff 'cause my mom wouldn't let me put pin holes in the walls. This poster was in rough shape because it kept falling off the wall because that tacky stuff would never last.



Click below to view prior editions of the Classic 80s-90s Sports Poster Series. We'll be back next Friday with another installment. As always, keep the entries coming to legendofcecilioguante@gmail.com. Give us your name, along with a brief write-up about the image and any blog/site you'd like us to plug (and keep it relatively clean, y'all).

Volume I: The Reign Man

Volume II: Chicago Vice

Volume III: Air Raid

Volume IV: The Icons

Volume V: Let's Go Buff-a-Lo

Volume VI: New York State of Mind

Leap Day-esque Sports Abnormalities

Wait, this happened four years ago too?

Hey it's Leap Day everybody, congratulations. Happy Birthday to you "leaplings" (a legit term) out there. Simon Gagne and Ja Rule are both leaplings (only one birthday every four years? Maybe Danny Almonte is a leapling). We've always admired Leap Year, it has a lot going for it. It gives us a free day. Who cares if you're productive today? It's a freebie, enjoy it, you won't get this opportunity next year. Leap Years are also quite sneaky. I didn't really know that 2008 was a Leap Year until yesterday.

In honor of leaplings everywhere who had to settle for February 28th or March 1st birthday parties, here are some of our favorite Leap Day-esque sports occurrences. Like Leap Day, they are all rare, surprising, and satisfying. Needless to say, we wish they happened a lot more often.

The Triple Play: I've watched a lot of baseball, and I think I've only seen one or two triple plays. One swing of the bat and you go from having multiple base runners and no outs, to getting out of the inning. Glorious. And how about the even rarer Unassisted Triple Play? Check out Troy Tulowitzki's unassisted triple play.

The Hook-n-Ladder Play: I don't care if it's Boise State or Mox and Billy Bob in Varsity Blues, I like a good hook-n-ladder play. I challenge the fool who doesn't.

The Fair Catch Kick: I've known about the fair catch kick for awhile, but never really understood it since I've never seen it. I don't think I understand it any better after reading about it. It was last attempted in the NFL in 2005. We need more of these. How do they work again?

The Hidden Ball Trick: You know, runner on first and the pitcher starts going through the motions like he has the ball. Wait a second, the first basemen has it, that jokester! You're out rookie.

Picking Up the 7-10 Split: Can't say I watch much bowling, but I do enjoy rolling a few games and knocking back some cold ones. I leave many 7-10 splits. The world needs more of this. And this too while we're at it, "wow, let's replay that baby!"

The Nut Shot: Being in the defensive wall on a free kick near the goal in soccer is one of the most compromising positions in sports. You think holding your hands over your package is going to help you? I won't deny chuckling (and wincing) every time I see this.

The Inside The Park Home Run: Something wacky is going to happen in the outfield in order to pull this off. Wacky=good.

The Goalie Fight: When things get so chippy on the ice that the two goalies lumber to center ice and start a leisurely fist fight, then the hockey game has just gotten really interesting.

An NBA ref calls Traveling: I'm not sure this ever happens. But if it ever does happen, I hope I'm on hand to see it.

Stealing Home: The ultimate f*** you to the opposing battery. Would you want to meet Lou Piniella in the dugout after somebody stole home on you? Jackie Robinson, you the man.

Ultimate Skins Game: Tiger vs. Shooter vs. Happy vs. Ty Webb

Shooter choked against Happy, but could he give Tiger a run?

After Tiger's destruction of Stewart Cink in the World Golf Championship-Accenture Match Play Championship (great tournament name, who are the ad wizards that came up with that one?), my roommate quipped, "8 straight victories, anyone with a sports blog that's worth a damn out to write about Tiger's dominance." I'm not sure, but I think the inference there is that I'm not worth a damn. Well, Big Country (and for the record, Tiger has won 4 straight PGA tournaments +1 European Tour event at Dubai, and 7 of the last 8 events he's entered, not 8 straight victories), you're a son of a bitch but you're right, watching Tiger is watching history and he deserves some love from The Legend. Not SI-style love, but we'll do what we can.

Tiger's only problem? He's just too mother flipping good. There is very little entertainment value watching him lap the competition all the time. Since he was sent from planet Golf-tron to rule the Earth's golf courses, it's unlikely that anybody will ever be able to make things interesting against him. It seems that Tiger has reached his entertainment value peak.

But what if he was in a high stakes Skins Game against Happy Gilmore, Shooter McGavin, and Ty Webb? That's a foursome that would blow up the Neilson ratings. We'd imagine that the tone would be set at the driving range:

Tiger is ripping range balls, trying to maintain his legendary focus while Ty Webb is urinating on Tiger's golf bag. Happy is bonging beers and crushing beer cans on his head with a few white trash groupies. Shooter is sneering at Happy and co., while trying to size up Tiger and avoid Ty's splashback.
Ty: I've always liked you, Betty.
Tiger (trying to play it cool): Ty, it's Tiger, you used that line like 30 years ago.
Ty: Do you do drugs Tiger?
Tiger: Listen asshole, just because a lot of golf courses have added ridiculous length to "Tiger-proof" them because I hit the ball so far, does not mean I'm juicing. I've never even..
Ty: Then what's your problem then? I'm going to give you a little advice. There's a force in the universe that makes...
Happy: Hey everybody, look at that dude's snake! Golfing with that thing could really draw a crowd.
Shooter: You know what *else* could draw a crowd? A golfer with an arm growing out of his ass.
Ty: Na-na-na-na-na-naaaa
Shooter (leans in to Tiger): Kind of tough to play some Golf with all this riffraff around, huh? Hey but you know, Happy Gilmore, he spends more time in the sand than David Hasselhoff. Speaking of Hasselhoff, boy could I tell you some stories. This one night, me, the Hoff and Hoff's daughter...
Tiger (drops Shooter with a devastating right cross and then turns and glares at Ty and Happy.): Don't make me wrap this 5 iron around your neck, I'm WARMING UP.

Happy sees Shooter bleeding out of his face and proceeds to bong a beer, and start doing the bull dance, obviously feeling the flow as Ty Webb nods in approval. Happy proclaims himself ready to play and rides the bull off to find the nearest game room. The rest of the range session ends without much more drama.


I'm ready to watch 18 holes with these guys, is anybody else? Despite the test to his intensity and focus, I think Tiger still comes out on top of this Skins game. But you know that Shooter is hungry, and this is Shooter's Tour baby, Shoot-err.

For the Women in Our Lives, Doomsday Looms

The collective moan you hear this morning is the sound of girlfriends, wives and significant others of all we merry band of sports-crazy brothers. It's been 25 days since the clock hit :00 on Super XLII. 25 days of general malaise as we entered into the abyss of sports fandom that is the month of February.

But, alas, ladies our time has come again. Our joy is your sorrow. The confluence of forces is coming together, unfortunately, none in your favor.

The early warning signs appeared late last night. Baseball highlights on SportsCenter. On Saturday, the calendar flips to March...and hither comes the madness. And, as we move further into spring, the NBA and NHL playoffs wait in the wings, biding time to form -- the perfect storm.

Yes, men, we have served our time. We've collectively suffered through regular season NBA and NHL tilts, unwatchable Saturday afternoon Big Ten regular season matchups and the off-season sagas of Clemens, Pettite and others. Finally, our time has come. The time for re-engagement is here.

Over the next eight weeks, talk of conference tournaments, the proverbial bubble, opening day starters and playoff match-ups will serve to rekindle the flame of our sports psychosis. The weeks of every evening featuring a wondrous potpourri of sports-viewing pleasures is tantalizingly within reach.

The dreary emptiness of late winter is about to give way. We can't wait. The women in our lives will soon hold on to only mere dreams of turning back the clock, grasping to the visions of taking their men out on dinner dates, romantic weekend trips and spontaneous shopping excursions that could only take place during the month of February. It is time. Things now change.

For my lovely fiancee, she can at least relish in the notion that her man has recently stepped up to a full Mets season ticket package. And, of course, there is solace in the notion that I continue to have this blog. What's that? Yes, the collective groan is getting louder...ahhh, the sounds of spring.

PS: Yes, we are making broad generalizations. I know there are certainly women out there who have also been suffering just as much as the fellas. I just don't know any of them...

Haven't We Seen This Tennessee Team Before?

I knew I'd seen this team before. My college basketball passion has admittedly tamed a bit since its 90s peak. But, even I can feel tournament time around the corner, so our college hoops-watching regimen has become a little more disciplined lately. We at least want to be partially educated come tourney time.

Which takes us to last night's UT/Vandy game. The Vols spent three days at #1. Maybe they'll get another chance to visit later this season. Here's the thing, though. I don't know about y'all, but this didn't feel like that much of an upset. One of the reasons why? I've seen this team before.

I've watched Pearl and the Vols a few times this season. I love watching them play basketball. The players match the intensity of their head coach. They run up and down the floor full-tilt for 40 minutes. They've got an incredibly athletic starting five. They play great defense. And, most importantly, they look awesome in the all orange with the white headbands.

And while no team is flawless (most certainly not this season), the Vols bring back memories for me of two teams: the 1999-2000 Cincinatti Bearcats and the Arkansas Razorbacks of the early 90s. Tell me there's not something about these Vols reminiscent of Huggins's crew of Martin, Mickeal and DeMarr Johnson. Yes, I know Kenyon Martin went down and it ain't apples to apples but that team wasn't going all the way either. The 2007-08 Vols also trigger memories of the 1991 Arkansas Razorbacks. Another #1 seed heading into the tourney...remember Todd Day, Lee Mayberry and the Big "O?" That team made it to the Elite Eight and no further.

From a fan who is admittedly no longer fanatical about college hoops, that's the feel I get from this year's edition of the Tennessee Volunteers. Frightening athleticism? Yup. A terror for teams without multiple ballhandlers on the floor? Yup. A squad that can run you out of the gym with a few spurts? Absolutely. But a final four team? I'm not buying it quite yet.

Although they've got size, my gut tells me that lack of a real halfcourt inside-out game is going to get them as soon as the shooting touch disappears (not that any team who shoots in the 30% vicinity is going to beat anybody decent come March). At times, this team appears lost if Lofton is not on his game and playing the floor general role.

We'll see what happens in a few weeks...but, as much as I enjoy watching the orange, I'm not feeling the offensive depth, versatility that can provide the consistency necesssary to make a multi-game run to the Final Four.

Are we off? Shower down your college hoops knowledge upon us.

Does Anyone Care About The NBA These Days?

As late 80's/early 90's kids, Cecilio's Scribe and I grew up in a time of larger than life NBA superstars. Bird and Magic were in the twilight of their careers, but still legends. Jordan was in his prime, Dominique was establishing the Human Highlight Reel, The Dream, The Admiral, and Patrick Ewing ruled the paint. The Round Mound of Rebound dominated at power forward as did The Mailman. We had Run TMC in Golden State and Clyde The Glide in Portland. The Cavs were rolling out formidable teams lead by Brad Daugherty (and his fragile back), Mark Price, Larry Nance and John "Hot Rod" Williams (not to be confused with Legend favorite John "Hot Plate" Williams) Life was good, the NBA was scrumptulescent.

We're not sure what happened, but by the time we got to college most of our friends thought the NBA sucked for one reason or another. I estimate that before I lost touch and became a Witness, 80% of sports fans I know felt something between apathy and sincere disdain for the NBA. Until LeBron came came to C-town, ending a decade of miserable Cavs basketball, even I had stopped caring about the league. Every time I went to see my current hometown team, the Wiz at the MCI? Verizon? Center, the crowd was dead until there were five minutes left in the fourth quarter (this is still the case).

Enter LBJ, and all the sudden I'm a basketball fanatic again. Amazing what a difference it makes when a player that makes you say, "holy sh*t that was incredible," four or five times a game joins your team. By the way, LeBron has turned into an absolute killer at the end of games, and that is awesome.

Since I've become a Witness, I've kind of gone off the grid and lost touch with what the general public thinks. While I got a little nuts about the Ben Wallace trade, only one of my friends even knew about it. Please help me, Legend faithful, does everybody else still think the NBA sucks? I completely understand if you do, everyone can't be a Witness. Just wondering, really.

Knicks Beatwriter Holds Back...Um, Not a Whole Lot Actually

I miss reading the local tabloid sports sections every morning. Back in the day, before the rigors of a day job got in the way, I used to lazily wake up at home and bask in the glory of a Dunkin' Donuts coffee and a stack of local papers. I read from back to front.

In our house, we had the Daily News, Post, Journal-News and Times...every day. Occasionally, Newsday would make the cut if there was a compelling enough Mets back page. Now, we yearn for the smudge of newsprint now predominantly replaced with the likes of our convenient, yet sometimes unfulfilling, Google reader filled with blogs.

What has caused us these reminiscent pangs of longing on this particular day? It's the realization that we're taking our beat writers for granted. Specifically, we're missing out on the memorable musings of New York Knicks who have the privelege of covering this walking catastrophe during a season the likes of which we've never witnessed before and may never again. And, while the Gestapo-like reign of Dolan and MSG is certainly a wear on Knicks beat reporters, it's good to see it's not completely holding back their voices.

Having been out of the office a few days, I was catching up on the goings-on with those ever-entertaining Knickerbockers courtesy of the New York Post's Marc Berman. Berman's Monday column focused on the recent whining of the ridiculous, fat, lazy waste of space that is Eddy Curry. But what I found most refreshing was some of the unapologetically honest, mildly-satirical and genuinely amusing drop-ins from Berman. My favorites below:

In describing the Knicks' state following Sunday's loss:

"Team Titanic II sank further into the abyss..."

Lamenting the reality that Curry and Randolph remain in Knicks uniforms post-trade deadline:

"Curry and Randolph, unfortunately still Knicks after the trade deadline, combined for 19 points on 6-of-24 shooting in an awful 115-92 loss at Air Canada Centre."

In describing Curry's defensive prowess against big man Andrea Bargnani:

"Bargnani all by himself outscored the Knicks' big-man tandem, hitting for 25 points on five 3-pointers, most of them over an unresponsive Curry."

Discussing Zach's effort against Toronto:

"Randolph was a disaster, going 2 of 13 for seven points."

As Berman astutely points out:

"It's only going to get uglier for the Knicks, who fell to 17-39 with 26 games left after losing their seventh straight in this arena."

Our popcorn's ready.

Da Bears Fans Loving QB Moves

One More Year? I'll Drink to That

When you're a Jets fan, occassionally you must indulge in the guily pleasure of enjoying the sorrow and angst of fans of other NFL franchises. Now, the Bears made a nice little run not too long ago, so they really don't have that much to complain about. Generally speaking, we'd trade spots with them in a heartbeat. Well, maybe not in the quarterback department.

While one can seriously debate the future of the Jets situation behind center, Orton and Grossman is a starting quarterback dilemma no fan should have to face. The notion of that debate alone induces nausea...and we're not even Bears fans. Imagine what they're feeling. Actually, why exert any energy conjuring up their venom when the wonders of the Web can deliver them directly? A few of our favorite musings from around this here blogosphere...

From the Sun-Times Full Court Press blog...

Posted by: bculz
February 24, 2008 08:38 AM
The thought of Lovie Smith standing at the podium, declaring that,"Rex is our quarterback" and saying it with a straight face, sends chills down my spine.

Posted by: Keith Lifetime Southsider February 24, 2008 10:35 AM
Crappy winter,The Bulls suck, The White Sox don't look too impressive, and now this. Put Angelo, Lovie, and Wrecks on a small rocket and blast them all into the black hole.

Reader comments from the Chicago Tribune ...

"Insanity: Doing the same things over and over and over and over and over and expecting different results."

"The impending 'battle for the quarterback job' is like watching season premier week on Me-TV. Hype it all you want, it's second rate reruns. By the way, early in every episode you remember how it turns out."

"Not only unbelievable, but unBEARable. 3 million dollars for a deer in the headlights quarterback? Oh! please spare us from another losing season?"

From Da Bears blog...

"One more year of Kyle "I can't hit the broad side of a barn" Orton...Tell me, which one of you guys is in charge of Jerry Angelo a bouquet of flowers for his wondrous job building the NFC's most explosive offense???"

"Like I've always said, when a team says it has two starter-grade quarterbacks then it means it doesn't even have one. Good luck with that Kyle Orton and Rex Grossman thing Chicago."

"Like watching a train wreck in slow motion."

"Speechless, that pretty much sums up my feelings for rex"

Perhaps Rumors and Rants summed it up best in this post, the intro of which is included below...

"Hey guess what Bears fans? You know how your team decided to bring back a quarterback who's virtually worthless last week? Well, the did it again tonight! That's right, not only is the Sex Cannon going to be back in the Windy City next year, so will Kyle Orton as he continues his way to dying young due to cirrhosis of the liver."

We should note that many, many die-hards are lauding the moves. But how much fun is it to read those comments?

Rules of Engagement...Think Yankees Fans

You Forgot to Discuss Napkins...and Broke a Major Rule of Engagement!

Cecilio's Scribe has been a bit radio silent of late. My apologies. Blame it on the engagement. Yes, CS has signed a long-term agreement with an all-star, terms undisclosed. I am quite happy about the contract. That said, I am now entering the blissful period during which one learns about the rules of engagement. More casually known as wedding talk.

For those who have traveled down this path, none of this may be new. But, for a rookie, I am searching for a metaphor...hmmm...ok...think Yankees fans...debating starting lineups and their thoughts on the team's top pinch hitter...in December. That's a bit what it feels like.

You know those completely irrational/borderline-psychotic Yanks fans calling into WFAN in New York in the middle of the football season debating where Melky Cabrera should hit in the lineup and whether Jose Molina can really be a clutch righty bat off the bench? That's sort of what it's like. Mildly manic.

We've been engaged all of one week and Jerome from the Bronx and every other crazy caller is weighing in on who should be the seventh-inning guy come September, yet we haven't really even discussed the metaphorical equivalent of a roster or an opening day, let alone player roles and prospective lineups.

It's an interesting experience. We'll keep talking sports here and spare our readers any in-depth breakdowns of passed hors d'ouevres or table assignments, but we may drop an occasional humorous update from spring training. As of now, only one decision has been made. There will be no Sunday wedding...for obvious reasons.

Best and Worst Case Scenarios From The Cavs Blockbuster Deal

Please, can we see this Ben Wallace in C-Town?

I got overly excited yesterday when I heard about the Cavs' blockbuster trade, and hastily posted this bit of rambling. I won't try to explain the psyche of the Cleveland sports fan, but know this, trades excite us. C-Town has even rolled out a Welcome To Cleveland letter.



I've calmed down (a little bit) and decided to look at the best and worst case scenarios for the Cavs. Some people think this trade sucks it, and some people think it rocks. I think it's a good thing, if for no other reason than to make LeBron happy. Please be happy LeBron, please!



Best Case Scenario: Ben Wallace -- Big Ben approaches his productivity and intensity levels from his Pistons days. It's foolish to think that Wallace will be able to be the force he was as a youngster, but it's not too much of a stretch to think he'll kick it up a notch (or 10 hopefully) from his Chicago days. Playing with LeBron invigorates the big man, and the Cavs interior D blossoms, while the Cavs continue to be a great rebounding team. My suggestion is that he plays with the huge fro' more often. I love it when Ben lets his hair out.



Worst Case Scenario: Ben Wallace -- Mike Brown leaves Wallace in to shoot free throws at crunch time. Please don't let this happen, Coach Brown. Figure something else out. Also, there is the possibilty that Wallace's motor is burnt out, incapable of revving past what he's given the Bulls the past two years. I'm cautiously optimistic that this isn't the case.



BCS: Wally Szczerbiak -- I get over the fact that his name is hard as hell to spell, and he flourishes in his role as 3 point shooter extraordinaire. Why shouldn't he? He's spent some time as an Ohio legend when he led mid-major Miami, OH to the Sweet 16. Open looks created from none other than, Mr. LeBron James!! LeBron creates a ton of open shots for his teammates, that is a fact. He's never had a teammate consistently knock down those shots. All you have to do is shoot Wally!



WCS: Wally Szczerbiak -- The name spelling is just too much to overlook and like so many before him, he can't knock down those open looks. And, the Cavs defense sucks when he's on the court. This would be bad.



BCS: Delonte West -- Delonte plays some good, gritty basketball, and helps the situation at point guard. I loved Delonte when he was at St. Joe's. Who didn't love the West and Jameer Nelson led, underdog Hawks who made Billy Packard eat his words all the way to the Elite 8 in 2004? I thought he was showing some potential with the Celtics before he went to the soulless bastards who are moving Seattle's franchise to Oklahoma. Go forth and prosper Delonte. Plus, he could bring more of this. What's not to love?



WCS: Delonte West -- The Cavs hole at point guard grows deeper, and West just can't hang in the NBA. I do not anticipate this happening. Also, it would be bad if Delonte failed to provide any more YouTube clips like this one, found by Rotoevil.



BCS: Joe Smith -- Smith adds some scoring, some boards, and solid D. A solid veteran addition.



WCS: Joe Smith -- Smith adds some scoring, some boards, and solid D. A solid veteran addition.



Chicago and Seattle: Chicago, good luck with Gooden and Hughes. Gooden is okay, but has huge mental lapses. Hughes was a MAJOR disappointment in Cleveland. It sucks, because he's quality people, and I hope his career bounces back. Shannon Brown might have some talent, but it was never going to come out under Mike Brown. Seattle, I'm sorry that some asshole has decided to rip your franchise away from you. It sucks. It pisses me off to no end when this happens. I hope the responsible party is having cocktails in hell with Art Modell for eternity.
**Editor's Note -- I just saw this in ESPN's Cavs/Wiz recap in the Game notes, "Wallace had his hair in tight cornrows, but promised to let his 'do go. "You're always going to see the 'fro," he said." Good sign for the Cavs!! -E.S.

Holy Crap!! Cavs trade to get help for Lebron!!

Lebron is getting more help!?!!

Holy crap!!! I pull up the front page at ESPN.com every single day hoping for a holy crap moment involving the Cavs and making a huge deal to get players to help LeBron. My holy crap moment is here!! The Cavs are getting Ben Wallace, Wally Szczerbiak, Delonte West (he can play point guard!!! That turns this from Holy Crap to Holy S***!), and Joe Smith (he's still in the league)? They're only giving up Larry Hughes (I liked Larry, didn't like to see him get boo'd, I hope his career bounces back), Cedric Simmons, Shannon Brown (who might have potential, but couldn't get any minutes), and Drew Gooden. I like Drew Gooden, he's funny, he has a cool beard, he had that weird hair patch, he puts up some points and grabs boards. I can get over him leaving.


I don't know, it might be too early, I just found out about this. I might be way overexcited. Does Wallace have anything left? Or Joe Smith? Is Delonte West going to be a competent starting point guard? Is Wally's D as bad as I've heard? I don't know, but Holy Crap!!! If this trade doesn't go through, this might be my last post. I will die honorably by going to Cleveland and getting beaten to death. I think a ton of other bloggers knew about this joy before I did, those lucky bastards. Go Cavs

Zeke Has Dolan's Blessing to Make Moves: Eyes Carter, Miles Among Others

Maybe Ricky Davis is the Answer

On the heels of an embarrassing 40-point loss at the hands of the Sixers, James Dolan continues to remain steadfast in his support of Knicks coach Isiah Thomas. And, with the trade deadline approaching, sources inside the organization say Dolan has given his blessing to Thomas to "make the moves he feels are necessary to get his [Isiah's] dream team on the Garden floor."

With license to deal, word has it that Thomas has been furiously discussing potential players who he feels could meld with the style of basketball, and the caliber of team, he's looking to build in New York. Though unable to confirm at press time, early rumors are that Portland's Darius Miles, New Jersey Nets guard Vince Carter and the Miami Heat's Ricky Davis are "players of interest."

According to team officials who preferred to remain anonymous, Thomas has also identified Davis's teammate Jason Williams, Cleveland's Larry Hughes, the T-Wolves Antoine Walker and former Knick Steve Francis as "good fits for the system."

The scary thing...financial considerations aside, it's not that hard to imagine. Right? Who else would be on your all-Zeke team? Hit us up in the comments.

Editor's Note: To those coming from Blazers blog, please note this is, in spirit, a "spoof" poking fun at the mockery that is the New York Knickerbockers NBA franchise. That said, we would not be surprised at any of the above scenarios taking place with Zeke and Dolan at the helm. That said, other media outlets like the NY Daily News have discussed Miles to the Knicks as a scenario.

Slight Relief from Regular Season NBA/NHL: The NFL Combine

Sure, it's not March Madness. But a week filled with ridiculous hype around 40-yard dash times, video of herculean dudes throwing up a bar loaded with two plates like it's a wiffleball bat and the joys of analyzing the Wonderlic test, is all welcome music to this fan's ears.

Enough about Clemens, Pettite, Shaq and Kidd. Let's turn our attention to the largely media-created spectacle of wathcing absolutely ridiculous athletes showcasing their raw athleticism in front of a bunch of salivating coaches, scouts and journalists.

In a way, it's sort of a repulsing cattle call. But, for those of us who love football, it's a chance to see just where and when some of our favorites from the college gridiron are likely to fall in April's draft.

The NFL Combine appeals to that gambler within each of us...the prognosticator...and, if you're a Jets fan like me, the guy looking for the franchise-turner-around-er. For my money, it still seems mind-boggling what these guys can do. Defensive end prospects tipping the scales at 260, running 4.5 40s, jumping through the roof and tossing around 225 30 times. People use the term "freak of nature" a lot to describe a small number of off-the-charts players. To me, every top linebacker, D-End and tight end prospect who will be showcasing their talents in Indy is a bondafide freak.

The combine is also an excuse for debate on the top QB heading into the week and then see how the list shuffles by the weekend. It makes folks like me check out their team's leading blog and watch highlights of highly-projected first-rounders and then talk about them like we actually know how they might impact our teams.

This year, like too many others, is cause for this Jets fan to pay a little bit more attention to the combine. In a pattern that is becoming increasingly too familiar, the J-E-T-S have a top 10 pick (check out full draft order). Depending on which mock draft you pay any attention to, pundits have Gang Green taking anyone from Arkansas's Darren McFadden to SC's Sedrick Ellis to Buckeye Vernon Gholston. If guns alone were an indication of future NFL success, we no doubt would lean towards Gholston. Plus, he and T.J. would make for a formidable bicep challenge duo to any other teammates in the league.

All that said, as enticing as McFadden may be, I'm begging for the Jets not to fall into the trap of "best available." Don't get me wrong, having McFadden, Jones and a change up like Leon Washington to support Kellen Clemens has its potential benefits. But the Jets have so many "needs" it's really not funny. And, if this year's playoffs is any indication, formidable fronts on both sides of the ball is as critical a success factor as ever. The Jets need big-time help on the offensive and defensive lines. Long? Gholston? Dorsey? All of 'em sound pretty good about now. Hopefully, the combine clears up a bit around who is really the cream of the crop.

We're looking forward to the hype...and will be keeping a watchful eye. You must understand, we have long, painful memories of this time of year.

The Big Lead Reminds Us that One Shining Moment is Coming

This Guy and Luther Vandross?

We won't write a whole post about this...although we reserve the right to do so at a later date. For today, we thank The Big Lead for reminding us that March Madness is only days away -- which means One Shining Moment is coming.

Really, it's one of the more inexplicable phenomenon in all of fandom, don't you think? A cheesy, girly, wimpy song delivered by one of the kings of soft-ass castrate-yourself-for-listening R&B set to a reel of awfully-predictable highlights choreographed to align with the lyrics. Seriously??

Meanwhile, I know every freaking word to the tune and can't manage to keep myself from clicking and re-clicking the play button every time one of these precious gifts of awesomely-bad video somehow find their way to my inbox.

So, we thank you David Barrett for your song...and we thank you Luther for singing it with such passion...and we thank you players for finding a way to pound on your chest and run very fast for a loose ball just so those lyrics can work just a little better.

We're anxiously waiting for that ball to be tipped...

Jerome James is a Million-Dollar-a-Minute Man...Drink That In

You'd Be Smiling Too, If You Got Paid $6M to Do This

Jerome James is making more than a million bucks/minute this season. Don't ask us why we chose today to wallow in this miserable realization, just think about it. In all honesty, we were pondering compiling a definitive list of all those around the league collecting obscene paychecks for showing up in a suit and sitting on the bench. Being a Knicks fan, Jerome was the first one that came to mind...and we simply couldn't get beyond the numbers.

James' 2008 salary is $5,800,000 according to his profile at ESPN.com. If you delve a bit deeper into that impressive 07-08 resume, you'll see that our seven-foot proverbial waste of space has logged minutes in two of the Knickerbockers 52 games this season. How many minutes you might ask? A grand total of five. Five freakin', lousy-ass minutes. Five million eight-hundred thousand dollars.

We are admittedly poor at math. I like to consider myself more of a wordsmith. However, with the help of a handy-dandy calculator, we've managed to determine that equates to $1,160,000 per minute that the NY Knicks are paying for the services of one Jerome Keith James. Now, granted, salaries are astronomical across sports...and I remember reading the breakdown on dollars/start for Clemens or at-bat for A-Rod or even pitch for Santana.

But, somehow, the James figures above are just...well, we can't even comprehend them. Not that we hold anything against James. He stinks. And getting paid to sit around and watch NBA games from a courtside seat for nearly $6M/year ain't too bad a gig.

It is, though, just one more of the plethora of indications of why the Garden is such a forlorn place these days...Well, let's look at the bright side, according to the solid folks at Can't Stop the Bleeding (citing an SI source), at least Isiah's job is safe. So, we've got that going for us...which is nice [metaphorically hurling Knicks fan loyalty out window...]

The Joes are Messing with My MLB Equilibrium

Wait, Huh?

You ever have those moments where something that you'd heard about a lot, but never felt real for some reason, comes to life in shocking clarity for the first time? Sort of like when you hear about the struggling market, pundits talking about recession or what-not and you sort of just keep shrugging it all off...until one day you decide to go online and check out your 401K and suddenly it's like "holy sh*t, how the hell did this happen?" Well, that's what just occurred with me and Joe Torre and Joe Girardi -- big time.

Sure, we're huge baseball fans, and we've known about the changes for months just like everyone else. But until today, until we clicked to MLB.com and saw the image of Torre himself observing the Dodgers proceedings with that trademark pensive (empty?) stare, it was fantasy. Same with Girardi. Immediately after reading up on Joe Hollywood, we perused a bit more until we stumbled upon the second "lead" story on Joey G. bringing his "own style" to the Bronx Bombers.

That's approximately when the "wait a second...there's a new manager of the New York Yankees?" "Joe Torre is in Los Angeles?" moment happened. Don't get me wrong,we know it's old hat. But we're still trying to reconcile the reality. We're not sure what seems stranger. The fact that Joe Torre is the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers...or the fact that someone other than Joe Torre is skipper for the Yanks. We think B...

Well, back to the new reality. The Legend team is starting to get excited for baseball again, by the way. Stay tuned.

Seven Things That Could Have Made Four And A Half Hours of Testimony Fun

Senator Blutowski?

If things had gone our way, Wednesday's four and a half hours of Rocket-Man goes to Capitol Hill would have been more entertaining. Why can't the Capitol be in Hollywood? If one of the following scenarios had taken place, it would have been Miller Time a little bit early.

1. Animal House - When Roger Clemens took his seat, a robust round of Animal House style "cheater" or "roid-head" coughs. This would be followed by Rep. Tom Davis leaning over and explaing to Chairman Waxman what was being said.

2. Pitcher/Ump Confrontation - If Chairman Waxman had come down from behind the podium and he and Clemens started jawing at each other, nose to nose. You'd have to imagine that spit would have been flying, and Clemens either decks Waxman, or Waxman tosses Clemens like an ump would. You're gone, pal!

3. Code Red - Things get intense and Clemens can't handle it anymore. He jumps up on the table unprovoked, and starts going Jack in A Few Good Men. "You can't handle.... Yes! Yes that man sitting right there stuck needles full of steriods in my butt! I'm gonna rip the eyes out of your head and piss in your dead skull! You f***ed with the wrong American Hero!"

4. A Touching Moment - A scene like out of We Are Marshall, when the entire student body chants outside of the window, except instead of We Are Marshall: You're an Asshole; You're An Asshole...

5. Uncontrollable Farting - It doesn't matter who is farting up a storm, as long as the people around the offending party are on camera and reacting.

6. Don't Call Me Here! - Brian McNamee's cell phone rings during his testimony. He opens it and some chick on the other end is asking for all sorts of drugs for a bachleorette party. To McNamee's dismay, he accidentally puts her on speakerphone while he's fidgeting around. Hilarity ensues.

7. Andy Pacino, er Pettitte - Right when things are wrapping up, and everybody realizes that we're no closer to the truth now than we were before..... Andy Pettitte stumbles into the room with shades and a cane a la Scent of A Woman's, Col. Frank Slade:

Misremembers, I'll show you misremembers. You don't know what misremembers is, Mr. Clemens. I'd show you, but I'm too old, I'm too tired, I'm too f***in' old. If I were the man I was five years ago, I'd take a FLAMETHROWER to your place! Misremembers? Who the hell do you think you're talkin' to? I've been around, you know? I've pitched in the majors for 12 years. There was a time I could see. And I have seen. Boys like these, younger than these, their arms torn out, their legs ripped off in the bleachers of Yankee Stadium. But there isn't nothin' like the sight of an amputated spirit. There is no HGH for that. You think you're merely sending this splendid foot soldier back home to Oregon with his tail between his legs, but I say you are... executin' his soul! And why? Because he's not an American Hero, American Hero. You hurt this boy, you're gonna be roid bums, the lot of ya. And Roger, Brian, Henry, wherever you are out there, F-YOU, TOO!

Dubya To The Rescue!!!!

Pettitte and Clemens' relationship might become strained after this.

(photo courtesy of Sports Wrap)

Don't worry Rocket-man, the most powerful man in the free world has your back.

Brian McNamee's lawyer, Richard Emery, made headlines today by saying, "it would be the easiest thing in the world for George W. Bush, given the corrupt proclivities of his administration, to say Roger Clemens is an American hero, Roger Clemens helped children. It's my belief they have some reason to believe they can get a pardon." We're not sure which paper broke the lead first, but we saw it in the Miami Herald.

From what we can tell, this is an ill-fated attempt by Emery to illustrate why Clemens is lying. Saying that if his lawyers let him purjure himself in front of Congress, he must have a Presidential Pardon in his back pocket because he's f***ed now. He also throws in a little bit about the partisan nature of the hearing yesterday.

At the Legend, we really wanted to avoid the Roger Clemens hearings. Unfortunately, we couldn't. The Worlwide Leader wouldn't let us. Nothing like tuning in and being lied to for a few hours. We can confirm that the McNamee/Clemens camps were split almost perfectly down party lines.

Listen Mr. Emery, we're all with you here at The Legend, we think Rocket-Man's story resembles a sieve. But you were in D.C., of course the Republicans went one way and the Democrats went the other. That's just how it works. You think that after a week's worth of schmoozing with Clemens, the Republican Congressmen were going to grill him up there?

We're starting to think that Clemens' people got to Emery and said, "okay as a sign of good faith, say something really crazy, and that's how we'll know the deal is on." Does this mean that Joe Montana and Michael Jordan also have lifetime Presidential Pardons? They're great American heroes...

Speaking of Philly...Patrick Murphy Ain't Voting for No Giants Resolution

This is Patrick Murphy. He is a congressman from Philadelphia, PA. We've never met him, nor heard of him, prior to today. But we like him already.

From the fine folks at Philadelphia Will Do:

On Wednesday, the House passed a resolution congratulating the New York Giants on winning this year’s Super Bowl “and completing one of the most remarkable postseason runs in professional sports history.” The resolution passed by a vote of 412 to 1.

Murphy, a diehard Eagles fan who worked at Veterans Stadium as a security guard when he was 16, was the only House member to vote against it. “As a former 700-level security guard and lifelong Eagles fan, I couldn’t, in good conscience, vote for the New York Giants,” Murphy said Thursday. “The only thing worse would have been a resolution honoring the Dallas Cowboys.”

Phenomenal work, Mr. Murphy.

What's Your Deal, Philadelphia Phillies?

Indians pitchers and catchers report in 15 hours and 52 minutes, according to the handy Count Down to Spring Training Clock on the Tribe's official site. What a perfect time to check in with the Philadelphia Phillies? What's your deal, Phillies?



Hey, you won the NL East last year, congratulations. The Phillies led the league in runs scored (892) last year, but also gave up a bunch (821). Unfortunately, they got swept in the playoffs by the Rockies.


It looks like a case of great hitting and lousy pitching for the Phils. The Indians went through that for years in the 90's, but could not get that elusive World Series Title without the dominant pitching they needed. The line-up should be strong again for Philly since they return Chase Utley, Pat Burrell, Jimmy Rollins, and super stud Ryan Howard. The Phillies lost Aaron Rowand, but they should find enough production out of new aquisitions Geoff Jenkins (a Legend favorite) and Pedro Feliz, and returning outfielder Shane Victorino.


Pitching wise, Philly has Cole Hamels at the top of their rotation. Hamels is good, young, and improving. His numbers last year say he's that much sought after staff ace. After Hamels it's a gray area, charcoal. Brett Myers is going back to the rotation. He's a decent 2 or 3. Adam Eaton is coming off of a terrible season. Jamie Moyer is 45 years old. Kyle Kendrick went 10-4 last year with a decent ERA before falling apart in his lone playoff start. Kris Benson?? I haven't heard of any of the other starters on the Phillies roster. This can't be a good sign.


The bullpen looks okay, IF, Brad Lidge can return to pre-2005 playoff form. You just never know with those nutty closers. It looks like they have some decent arms in place to get to Mr. Lidge, assuming the starting pitching can keep it close.

Okay, I think I know the Phillies' deal. They are a run scoring machine, but their pitching sucks. Their bullpen could be decent, but who cares if the starters can't deliver them the game with the lead? They did not do enough in the off-season to fix the rotation. Good luck chasing down the new-look Metropolitans!

Big Red Bafflement: Cornell Heading Toward NCAA Tourney?

Few things in sports surprise me nowadays. So, you can imagine it would take an event of nearly monumental proportions to catch our attention. That "something" happened while we were reading up on our beloved Cornell Big Red earlier this week.

ITHACA, N.Y. -- The sophomore tandem of Louis Dale and Ryan Wittman combined for 49 points and 15 rebounds to help Cornell snap an 18-game losing streak to Penn, topping the three-time defending Ivy League champions 87-74 on Saturday evening in front of a sold-out Newman Arena. With the win, Cornell remained unbeaten in league play at 6-0 and bumped its record to 14-5. Penn slipped to 7-14 (2-2 Ivy) with the loss.

For those unfamiliar with the Big Red, our athletic prowess is...well...absent. Hockey and lacrosse are our traditional strengths. Football? Baseball? Basketball? Not so much. Hence, why the paragraph above floored us. There is so much in there that is foreign to us as Cornell alums.

First, there is the snapping of an 18-game losing streak to Penn. So, basically this is the first time we've managed to beat the Quakers in about a decade. That makes us smile. We never really liked Penn. If we have an Ivy "rival," it would be those folks. Nice to see them struggle.

Second, I've never seen the words "sold out" and "Newman Arena" in the same sentence. Ever. Apparently, such an event occurred back in 2004. I certainly don't recall many (meaning any) basketball sellouts during my four years in Ithaca.

So, what does it all mean? Pending an enormous disaster my alma mater is making a trip to the Big Dance. Hold on, just had another one of those blogging moments where I can't believe what I have just written. OK, better now.

Yes, the Mighty Big Red of Cornell University are poised to head back to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1987 (according to our records). Their fate 21 years ago? A first round battle with #1-seeded Arizona. A nail-biting barnburner with Lute Olson's crew. Final score 90-50. I actually remembered watching for that score at age 10. I hadn't recalled checking for a Cornell NCAA tournament score since then. Turns out, there hasn't been one.

This recent turn of events is good to see. While we know the Big Red have ample opportunity to flush this opportunity away, with a 15-4 record and 6-0 Ivy league mark, things are looking pretty good. It would be nice to see someone other than Penn and Princeton make the trip for a change. We'll be keeping tabs and keeping our fingers crossed for another #16 seed come March and a date with...who knows...maybe Duke? By the way, the Big Red "hung" with the Dookies in Durham losing back in early January by 14. Wait, are you trying to tell us Duke got better? Oh, OK...

This Should Drive Home the Point...

Apparently, this young lady and her exploits are old hat to the Internet world. Well, thanks to Sports Fiends, we're catching wind of Brittney Griner just today. And we couldn't resist throwing this post up on the heels of this morning's musings.

Yes, we are well aware of our inability to dunk a basketball on a regulation hoop. That is what the entire last post was about...unfortunately, Ms. Griner is here to drive home the point even more.

Thanks for reminding us of our athletic inferiority...

A Short White Kid's Best Toy Ever: Honoring the Jordan Jammer

Seven Feet of Pure Heaven

You can wear Michael Jordan shoes...

You can wear a Michael Jordan shirt...

But you're never gonna feel like Michael Jordan...

Until you can jam like Michael Jordan.

Words that helped define a generation. As we stand days away from the 2008 Slam Dunk competition, we felt obliged to honor a true legend.

All due respect to the human highlight film, Dr. J and dunk champions of yester-year from Spudd to Dee to Sky, but they are mere blips on the radar screen of dunk history. One single moment outshines them all. A solitary debut of such magnitude that it shaped the pre-pubescent lives of millions of white kids in America. We are of course referencing the Lil' Sports launch of the "Jordan Jammer" in 1987.

Ahhhh, what a glooorious year. Bless you, Ohio Art. Check out Retro Junk for the stand-alone clip or to see the commercial that changed it all you can also hit up the YouTube video below (just FF to the 1:13 mark and/or enjoy the My Little Pony ads for added non-sports-related entertainment).

The Jordan Jammer, if you are not a Gen-X/Yer or were locked in a closet during those decades, was a gift from the heavens to millions in the late 80s. I was ten years old at the time and couldn't wait to have at my Jordan Jammer. Without perpetuating stereotypes irresponsibly, the 7-foot Jordan Jammer (that distinction is quite important, as many of my friends actually referred to their hoop as the 7-ft-jammer and ignored the endorsement of his airness) was marketed to sports-crazed little white kids who would never approach the rim on a 10-ft hoop in their lifetime and whose basketball careers would undoubtedly fail to extend beyond high school.

Don't believe us, just watch the commercial again and behold the awkward pasty-white lefty soaring through the air with whatever is the opposite of grace. Hopefully, those 80s marketers got their due, because the Jordan Jammer done blew the f up. Every one of my vertically-challenged friends had one. It was the toy around which playdates were arranged, kept and cancelled (busted Jammer? forget you, I'll go to some other kid's crib). All around my suburban NYC community, there were heated one-on-one match-ups taking place in basements and dens multiple times per week.

Those who chose to show off their game by tossing the little orange rubber b-ball from the perimeter? Pansies. Bona fide sissy-pants. You went strong to that seven-foot goal or you didn't come at all. After all, it was the Jordan Jammer not the seven-foot-work-on-your-outside-game-toy.

I'd pay top-dollar to go back in time and watch a video reel of my dunk repertiore. It was breathtaking. I was less of a glider than MJ, so I rarely took off from the foul line (or that arbirtrary line at the end of the couch deemed the foul line). No, my game was more of a bullying tomahawk-infused style. I preferred to always go to the rack with two hands and finish it off with a stare down over my feeble four-foot-nothing opponent. Regardless, it was still a thing of beauty.

However, one dunker in our neighborhood was without a doubt the most feared. We will call him only "Jesse" to prevent further misguided ill-will aimed at his childhood actions. Simply put, Jesse was our White Chocolate Thunder. J-Man eradicated Jordan Jammers. He was our 'Nique, combining a level of strength and serious hops that none of us could come close to rivaling. Years later, Jesse is by far the best streetballer among us. Back then, he was a painful dilemma. Invite him to your house and be witness to a spectacle unlike we had ever seen. But, at the same time, put your beloved Jordan Jammer very clearly in harm's way.

For many of us, the chance to see Jesse unleash his fury was too strong to resist. And, unfortunately, many of us paid the price for the indulgence. Legend has it J took down anywhere from 5-10 of our Jordan Jammers. And that was in our little neighborhood alone. There's not telling what he did outside of our town, in greater NY or even out of state. Neither sand, nor water-filled plastic bases could stop him. Any other props aimed at strengthening the Jordan Jammer were similarly rendered useless. How many he ultimately destroyed is something we may never know.

But all of it...the arrival of our very own Jordan Jammer...the battles waged...the memorable dunkers of our youth...and J-Man...ahhh, we will forever cherish the memories.

Whitlock Nails The Roger Clemens Saga

At, The Legend, we aren't buying what the Clemens camp is selling. The taped phone conversation between Clemens and McNamee (part two) just seemed weird and creepy. It sounds like Clemens tried to set McNamee up and it didn't work. And Clemens' people played this for the national media? Who are the ad wizards who came up with that one? Was that supposed to make us trust the Rocket Man?



There have been a lot of ins and a lot of outs in the ordeal, and after that phone conversation, I've avoided them like the plague. I'd rather watch LeBron highlights than listen to steroids gossip or watch Congressional hearings. Luckily, Jason Whitlock has kept track of things. I think that his column, Clemens fighting to save his butt ... kissers, is dead on. Now please, will this just end on Wednesday morning in DC? Pitchers and Catchers are reporting this week!!

Luscious Links

Sorry, was that title misleading? It's going to be a long week for The Legend's editors, so apologies for deviating from our mission to deliver compelling original content on a daily basis.

Today, we rely on our blogging compatriots who offer insightful, humorous and entertaining perspectives on recent goings-on in sport.

Deuce of Davenport does a great job breaking down the result of the Redskins head coaching search drama.

Can't Stop the Bleeding reports on how the worldwide leader has drawn the wrath of the Christian Defense Coalition.

Awful Announcing, and many others, bring us more f-bomb attacks from Chris Berman. Seriously, Boomer needs to expand his vocabulary.

Two Minutes for Blogging reminds us why playing a fast-paced game while on razor-sharp skate blades can be incredibly frightening. Best wishes to Zednik.

Our friends at Andre Tippet Superhero report on Andre Tippett's...wait, fellas, Tippett, your namesake, is heading to the Hall of Fame. Snap out of your depression and tell us why this is the most-awesomest thing ever! In all seriousness, we Jets fans feared Tippett off the edge for many, many years. Congrats to another fearsome 56.

We received the following note from the folks who handle Nick Mangold's blog.

"We’ve moved Nick’s Blog to a new address: http://nickmangold.net/newsblog We know all of Nick’s fans will love the changes made to the blog."

Thanks for the update, folks. If you can pass on one thing to Nick...blogs tend to be better when people write on them.

And, finally, we're still trying to get our arms around this whole Kevin Hart saga. If you aren't up to speed, read this post from Sports By Brooks and catch up on the tangled tale. We still feel a little sorry for the kid...even though we know we shouldn't.

Things that Bother Me...People Making the Case for Anybody Other than LeBron James Winning MVP

Give the King His New Hardware

Seriously. Stop it. I'm sick of it. I know you are paid to stir controversy, encourage debate and keep the fans "interested." But I do not want to hear one more member of the media even mention anyone else as a legitimate candidate for the NBA MVP. Give the trophy to LeBron...now.

Not that there are a lot of naysayers out there to begin with, but any talk of Garnett or Kobe or whomever else needs to be squashed. Unlike Erie's Scribe, I have no ties or lifelong allegiance to Cleveland. I am not, per se, a Cavs fan. I am a slightly-above-casual NBA fan, in the context of the generally sports-crazed population of our readers of which I am a citizen. Meaning I probably watch at least portions of three or four NBA games a week.

With that background, I watched the Cavs play the Rockets on Thursday night. I wanted to put this post up immediately following that game, but I got distracted. So, I'm here now and I've got something to share that anyone who's watched this team figured out in about :30. The Cleveland Cavaliers are a TERRIBLE basketball team sans LeBron. Not just average. Not OK. Not serviceable. TER-RI-BLE. Before we get into just how bad a team the Cavs are putting on the court is, let's juxtapose that cast with that infamous V word that sits at the center of this award. Valuable. Most valuable.

Now, if the award were to be named for the "Best Player in the NBA," I'd have slightly more patience for Kobe entering the discussion, although I'd still likely hand it to LeBron. If we're going to honor the spirit of the M.V.P. award, it's not even close. Which takes us back to this team...on Thursday night, LeBron took the floor surrounded by the following four players: Z, Larry Hughes, Donyell Marshall and Ira Newble. Go ahead, read that again. Now, granted Z is a legitimate player...and with Varajeo, Gooden and Pavlovic the Cavs are a far deeper team.

But let's be real here, outside of Ilgauskas, not one of these guys is a bona fide legit NBA starter. In fact, the whole roster has nary a "B" player among the bunch. Daniel Gibson and Damon Jones? Nice secondary, if not tertiary, players on an NBA roster these days. Devin Brown is getting 20+ minutes a game on this squad?! LeBron is bringing new definition to "carrying your team."

Last night, in a win against Atlanta, LeBron had what was for him an average night: 26 pts, 11 boards, 7 assists, 2 steals, 1 blocked shot and only 1 turnover in 44 minutes. Actually a below average night in terms of points. Oh yea, Eric Snow was part of the starting lineup last night and contributed two points, five assists and no rebounds in 27+ minutes. How is this team winning? LeBron. That's it

Honestly, even as I'm writing this I can't fathom how anyone could consider anyone else for MVP in the league for even a millisecond. LeBron has somehow managed to lead a team of also-rans and nobodys to a 28-21 record, winning seven of their last 10. Without King James, Cleveland is 0-6 and would have a hard time giving the D-League All-Stars a run.

I don't know how else to say it anymore. I'm 30. I watched Jordan and still, like so many of us, talk about how games he played in were just different. You couldn't take your eyes of the screen and you wanted him to get the ball on every single possession. I'm not there yet with LeBron James. But I'm getting awfully close. Speaking of awful, that's what this Cleveland team would be without him. So, why don't we skip the contrived debates and just give the man his trophy now?

Fan Ethics, Where's the Line?: Eric Gordon

Photo: Getty Images

Where is the line between being a great fan and an offensive one? At what point do jeers and taunting turn from school spirit and passion, to something completely different. What's the difference between a rabid Pats fan and a Masshole? (answer: it was a trick question...nothing, they are one and the same). Not to take a trip to serious town, but last night's Indiana-Illinois game got us thinking about it.

If you're a regular reader here, you probably know about Eric Gordon. If not, here's the :30 version of the story. Gordon was one of the most prized recruits in the country last year coming out of high school. Draft Express currently has Gordon projected to go #3 in the 2008 NBA Draft (it's widely believed this will be his only year in college).

Personally, I've seen him play three or four times this season and haven't come away extremely impressed. Talented freshman? Absolutely. Natural scorer? You bet. A surefire NBA star? I don't think he's even close at this point. But, for now, we're going to focus on last night...and a bit of the back story.

Last night Gordon's Indiana Hoosiers played at Illinois. Before we talk about the game, you must rewind to last year. Gordon, the prize recruit, had verbally commited to Illinois. For the next 10 months, Illini faithful could barely contain themselves. Then, the teenager changed his mind. Following the arrival of Coach Sampson at Indiana, Gordon committed to his hometown Hoosiers.

Fast-forward again to last night. We've seen venom directed at players before. Chipper Jones and John Rocker at Shea. Stephon Marbury and Isiah Thomas at The Garden. There are countless other examples. But last night was rare. Last night 16,000 rabid Illinois fans (many of them students) unleashed their disdain on Gordon...every time he touched the ball...for two halfs...and two overtimes. Gordon clearly felt the heat and played pretty poorly. But as Pat Forde at ESPN detailed, the hatred for Gordon was uniquely strong.

Which takes us to our original question. What's fair game? This is not an NBA veteran getting paid millions who's failing to show an effort on the court for fans paying premium prices for entertainment. This isn't a pitcher who managed to insult an entire city taking the mound. This is a 19-year old kid who was getting wooed by every college coach in America for years and decided to change his mind about where he'd was going to go.

So, what about the Illinois crowd's reaction last night? Perfectly fine? Borderline over-the-edge? Completely uncalled for? What falls within the lines of appropriate fandom given a situation like this?

We're not sure how we feel about it yet...but we're guessing you might have an opinion. Let's hear it in the comments.

Just Because...

Since we're largely a family-friendly site, it's rare we get to throw up a post that has a "hooters" tag and still have it be SFW. The fine folks at Cousins of Ron Mexico (incidentally, one of our favorite blog names along with Construda, Tirico Suave and a few others) posted this photo yesterday.

What they said is probably smarter than anything we could add to the discussion. However, we'll reiterate that an upstate NY Ivy-League institution might not be our choice in our next life. Because of the desire to go to a school with big time D1 athletics, of course. No other reasons that would be communicated in this picture (weather, women, golf...).

Classic 80s/90s Sports Posters, Vol. VI: New York State of Mind

Happy Friday, Legend faithful. Today, we take a NY sports fan-style trip through the classic 80s-90s poster archives. As former Met Mike Cameron, and one of our favorite Seattle bloggers proclaim, enjoy the enjoyment.

Scott from Philly: "My favorite. I now have a framed copy of it hanging over my bed signed by the man himself."

First off, we won't judge Scott for being a grown man with a signed Mattingly poster hanging over his bed. Second, what's with the proliferation of guns in these circa 80s-90s posters (see previous editions and examples here and here).



Whereas the Knicks are nothing but a source of consistent depression this decade, they used to be pretty OK.

Cangrejero writes: "Just remembered that my little brother had this bad boy hanging up in the room we shared as kids."

So many of us did. Wonder how the Eddy Curry posters are selling these days? I recommend a photo of #34 surrounded by an offensive spread of food, turkey leg in hand, with his gut prominently featured affixed with the title: "Force in the Middle." Can I get a photoshop expert in to mock this up?

In the meantime, one of the great in-game dunks of all-time.



Now, onto a few of my personal memories and long-suffering teams.

The New York Sack Exchange is now prominently featured when you get up the 300 level at the Meadowlands. Mark Gastineau was a bad man...with a sweet porn 'stache.



Doc was so good, he didn't need a clever tagline. Seriously, I've rarely watched a pitcher since who dominated like he did. Filthy.



Click below to view prior editions of the Classic 80s-90s Sports Poster Series. We'll be back next Friday with another installment. As always, keep the entries coming to legendofcecilioguante@gmail.com. Give us your name, along with a brief write-up about the image and any blog/site you'd like us to plug (and keep it relatively clean, y'all).

Volume I: The Reign Man

Volume II: Chicago Vice

Volume III: Air Raid

Volume IV: The Icons

Volume V: Let's Go Buff-a-Lo