randomlifeofboobie-blog

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Mental Warfare: The Documentary- Starlito

Starlito is a rapper from Nashville. He's huge in Tennessee and throughout the south. He's probably currently the favorite rapper in my hometown. When he drops something, my twitter timeline blows up with people talking about it. I also feel like he's one of the most regional rappers there is. Now that I'm in school in Chicago, NOBODY knows who Starlito is. I'm a fan because I enjoy his style, his content is diverse, but mostly because of the inside look he gives you into him making his music and the inspiration for it. This video is phenomenal. It gives you an all-access pass into the makings of "Mental WARfare," his newest mixtape, which you can scoop right here. It's a great tape, especially if you want to hear about someone's struggle in life. My favorite song is "WTF," which is more of a banger than an emotional song. His 2011 mixtape entitled Step Brothers" with Memphis-based rapper Don Trip was named the 8th best rap album of 2011 by Spin Magazine. That's only one slot behind Jay-Z and Kanye's "Watch the Throne." I hope you'll watch this video and give me some feedback. I'll continue to bring you material from both Lito and Trip, because I always want to put on for Tennessee.

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Jams From the Day: Cassie- Me & You

I had not heard this song in an incredibly long time until just the other day. As I was leaving the gym, this came over the speakers. I stayed until the song ended. This was my jam back when Mama Michel was still driving me around. If I had friends in the car, they'd all get pissed when it came on. I think I might have been the only dude my age jammin' out to this song at that time. I think it's safe to say that in hindsight others will join me in the jam fest. Enjoy!

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Boobie's 16 Favorite NBA Postseason Moments

16. Big Shot Rob Horry

Alright, so this is actually a collection of moments that I decided to group together. Who would have guessed that Robert freaking Horry would have seven championship rings? Seven! Robert freaking Horry! Well, he does, and it's not like he just rode the coattails of Olajuwon, O'Neal, and Duncan to win them either. Horry's nickname is Big Shot Rob because he has hit a number of the most clutch shots in Playoffs history. Playing with the Rockets in the 1995 Western Conference Finals, Horry nailed the game-winner to beat San Antonio 94-93. That same year in the Finals, he hit a 3 with 14 seconds left to seal Game 3 against the Magic. With the Lakers in the 2002 Western Conference Finals, Robert Horry picked up a loose ball that was knocked out of the paint by Vlade Divac and drained a game-winning 3 to tie the series at 2-2. Finally, in the 2005 NBA Finals with the Spurs, Horry scored 21 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, including a game-winning 3 to give the Spurs a 3-2 lead in the series. All the shots mentioned above propelled Horry's teams into series wins. The guy is ridiculously clutch. Hats off to ya Robert. I never thought I'd be writing about your greatness, but you deserve it even if your shots infuriated me a handful of times in my life.

15. Dwyane Wade's 2006 NBA Finals

I remember this like it was yesterday. I was sitting in a hotel room in Charleston, SC on a church choir trip watching Game 3. Jason Moeller, my buddy and roommate for the trip wanted to turn the game off midway through the fourth quarter because the Mavs were up 2-0 in the series and looking like they were sailing towards a 3-0 lead. That's when D-Wade stepped in and made me proud to have watched this series so intensely. He took over that game, ending up with 42 points and 13 rebounds and proceeded to take over the rest of the series, averaging 34 points and 8 boards. He penetrated into the paint at will, drew contact at will, and drained free throw after free throw after free throw. To be honest, after that series I thought Wade had a legitimate chance at one day becoming the greatest basketball player of all-time. I would never say that anymore, but that shows you how impressive a one man performance this series was, especially since it was only his third season in the league. In 2008, ESPN actually rated this the greatest single-person NBA Finals performance since the NBA and ABA merged, based on statistics. Ridiculous. This was also during the time when all the stars of the league were wearing tights for some reason. That's one good wardrobe decision David Stern made.

14. John Havlicek- "Havlicek steals it! Havlicek stole the ball!"

This is an incredible moment. Exciting and very historically important as far as the NBA is concerned. It was Game 7 of the 1965 Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics were ahead of the Wilt Chamberlain-led 76ers 110-109 with 5 seconds remaining. The Celtics had the ball and simply needed to inbound the ball and squander away the remaining seconds. Bill Russell, however, hit a wire that hung down from the ceiling, turning the ball over to the 76ers. With the 76ers in prime scoring possession, Havlicek stole the Hal Greer inbound pass, sealing the series, and propelling the Celtics to their seventh consecutive championship. The Johnny Most radio call is one of the most famous in NBA history: "Havlicek steals it! Over to Sam Jones... Havlicek stole the ball!" It was heard in the introductory theme to every episode of SportsCentury and is one of the calls I grew up emulating. Seriously, this was significant. On a tangent, I read somewhere that Havlicek ran something like 12 miles a game, running off of screens and hustling his tail off. He also was briefly a member of the Cleveland Browns right before his Celtics career. The one thing he'll be remembered for, though, is that steal.

13. Willis Reed- Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals

This is a postseason moment I only know from television and the way it's been told by other people. Willis Reed was extremely doubtful for Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals between the Knicks and Lakers. He was out with a torn thigh muscle: some very serious shiznit. He was doubtful up until game time, but the crowd erupted as he walked out of the locker room and on to the floor. That moment was actually voted as the greatest in Madison Square Garden history. I love people sacrificing a great deal and working through adversity to sacrifice for their team. This is an extreme example of that. In the video, you can see how much pain Reed is in, hobbling up and down the court. Although he only scored four points, his effort and desire to sacrifice led to an inspired team and a roaring crowd that left the Lakers without a chance. People that can play through things like that make others question their toughness. Reed was later the VP of the Nets when the Jason Kidd-led squads appeared in back-to-back Finals.

12. Sean Elliott- 1999 Memorial Day Miracle

This is one of the most mimicked plays at the gym. Oftentimes people are near the sideline, and they tip-toe it, saying "Sean Elliott" before bricking a three horribly. Down 85-83 to the Blazers in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals with 12 seconds remaining, Elliott almost fell out of bounds, but was able to keep his heels above the line by staying on his tip-toes and smacked a 3 right in Rasheed Wallace's mouth. Had Elliott not hit that shot, it's very likely the Blazers would have taken Game 2, potentially gained momentum and won the series, and the Spurs dynasty would not be quite as prestigious as it is today. I love this shot. It shows his court awareness, but it's also one of the biggest backbreakers possible. I could not even imagine my reaction had I been Arvydas Sabonis. I would have went ballistic. I had a solid 17 and 7 performance only to lose on some bozo hitting a shot with his heels up. Sorry Sabonis, but Sean knew where his feet were and delivered the final blow, bringing the Spurs their first NBA Title. Sean Elliott is still the leading scorer in University of Arizona history and his jersey is retired by the Spurs.

11. Dominique Wilkins vs. Larry Bird- Duel in Game 7 of the 1988 Eastern Semis

So when I was 5, my dad turned 50. I didn't buy it of course, since I had 0 income, but I gave him this VHS called "NBA at 50," celebrating the 50th anniversary of the NBA. It's safe to say I've seen it from credits to credits a dozen times, while I don't think he's seen it once. One of my favorite segments from that VHS was always the one about this battle. I've never seen the game in its totality, but everything I've heard about it and the highlights indicate its epicness. With the series knotted at 3, and the game very close entering the 4th quarter, Dominique and Larry decided it was time for each of them to shoulder the load. They went at each other possession after possession, converting on some ridiculously tough shots. Bird's Celtics came out on top, eventually losing to the Isiah Thomas-led Pistons in the Conference Finals. The series, however, will be remembered for one magical fourth quarter duel between two of the game's best, resulting in Dominique Wilkins scoring 47 points on a 58% shooting performance and Bird scorching the nets at a 63% clip to the tune of 34 points. Interesting fact, "Quick Whistle" Joey Crawfordwas one of the officials for this game.

10. LeBron James Torching the Pistons in the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals

I used to be a huge LeBron fan. I still am to some degree, but not nearly as much as I was around 2007. It's not "The Decision" or him teaming up with Wade and Bosh, I just think he settles far more than he used to, which ain't what Boobie's about. But man, when he gets going, he's super fun to watch! Since I was a huge fan at the time, I was glued to the TV and loving every minute of his 48 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists willing the Cavs to victory in Game 5. The man absolutely torched the Pistons in every way imaginable, and did it by himself when it mattered. He scored the team's last 25 points and 29 of their last 30. How insane is that?! Mike Brown didn't have to anything but get the ball to LeBron and tell Pavlovic and Varejao to get the fuck out of the way! 5 people guarding him in some fashion and he was able to put the team on his back. I can honestly say this was one of my favorite performances I watched intensely in my lifetime. This is the epitome of the LeBron I loved watching: full out attack mode. Also, LeBron doesn't get enough respect now for what he did in Cleveland. His accomplishments there are ridiculous considering the supporting cast he had, and anybody that thinks otherwise is out of their mind. Sidenote: Big Z actually has a little bit of hair left in the video from that game.

9. Allen Iverson- Game 1 of the 2001 NBA Finals

Allen Iverson during the 2000-2001 season and playoffs might have been the most exciting one player has ever been in the NBA. A 6', 165 lbs. shooting guard won the MVP that year. That's absurd. He was so much quicker than other players, had ridiculous handles that were about a decade before their time, and could hit shots that the only other person thinking about even taking them was Kobe. While the Lakers won the Finals that year in 5 games, this game is one of the most memorable for me. The Lakers had not lost an entire game during the playoffs that year and were threatening to become the first team to go undefeated in NBA Playoff history. A.I. said, "Naw!" He scored 48 points, had 6 assists and 5 steals in Game 1. He drained a crucial baseline jumper over Tyronn Lue, who they were calling the "A.I. Stopper," with under a minute to go and disgracefully stepped over the poor little guy. The way Iverson played is what made it so awesome. He was a little guy with incredible athleticism, but even more courage. I remember they showed a diagram of his body on the TV, and almost every part of his body had been injured at some point that season. He actually started wearing the now popular shooting sleeve that year to protect his elbow from further injury. Other people just thought it looked cool, so followed suit. I don't know that I've ever had more fun watching a player for a season than that year with A.I.

8. Isiah Thomas- 25 Point Quarter on a Bum Ankle in 1988 NBA Finals

Spoiler Alert: The Pistons actually lost this game and the Lakers went on to win the series in 7 games. Probably the greatest moments of the series, though, were in the 4th quarter of Game 6. Late in the third quarter, Isiah Thomas, who was quite obviously the Pistons best player and catalyst, went down with a severe ankle sprain. If you haven't noticed, I love players who shove pain to the side, dig in, and put on a show. That's exactly what Isiah did. The entire fourth quarter, he hobbled up and down the court, but somehow managed to put up 25 points, an NBA Finals record for most points scored in a single quarter. He was so obviously in pain, but the man put forth the best effort one person could. I marvel at that, but unfortunately the Lakers just had too much for them. It's all good. He got two titles the next two years.

7. Kevin McHale Clotheslines Kurt Rambis in Game 4 of the 1984 NBA Finals

I WISH the NBA was still like this. Unfortunately, this would never fly in today's game. Multiple suspensions would follow and ridiculous fines would be incurred. This was when much of the game was toughness and the tempo was through the roof. It's the Finals. Kevin McHale is not going to give you an easy fast break layup Rambis. Plus, it's a huge rivalry between teams and fan bases that hate each other, as well as what the other stands for. The Lakers had a 2-1 series lead at this point, and were in position to win this game. As Rambis approached the rim for a layup, McHale legitimately clotheslined him. Many say it changed the momentum of the series, as Boston took the game, and eventually the title in 7 games. This is such an awesome site to see for a multitude of reasons. One is that you can see how much the game meant to the players. Whereas now, players gear much of their play towards the fans, these guys just wanted to win the game. Another reason is who's on the court. How often does a white guy from Minnesota clothesline another white guy with glasses and a pornstar mustache in the Finals in today's game? Never! For that reason, I laugh every time I watch this clip. I do think this one dirty play captures a rivalry, a time period of the game, and what the Playoffs should be all about.

6. Reggie Miller vs. Spike Lee- 1994 & 1995 NBA Playoffs

If you haven't seen the ESPN 30 for 30: "Winning Time," stop reading and click this link. It's phenomenal. Reggie Miller hated the Knicks with a passion, and legitimately hated Spike Lee, legendary film director and the Knicks' biggest fan. In Game 4 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals, Reggie went off for 39 points and 25 in the fourth quarter. The whole time, he was smacking 3s and yapping in Spike Lee's face. My favorite part is the above picture, where he made a choking motion to Spike, claiming that Spike's beloved Knicks were choking. In the film, Spike also claims that Reggie cupped his balls while looking at Spike's wife. I haven't been able to find that, but that would make it even more awesome! Unfortunately for Reggie, the Pacers lost, and the Knicks advanced to the NBA Finals. The following year in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Miller was able to somehow score 8 points in 8.9 seconds, leading Indiana to another victory in Madison Square Garden while once again jawing at Spike. This time, the Pacers prevailed in 7 games, but lost in the Eastern Conference Finals to the Shaq and Penny-led Magic. Even though neither team involved in this rivalry ever won a championship, it was extremely bitter and is one of the more interesting rivalries to learn about.

5. "Jordan... open... Chicago with the lead!"

This is where the list starts to get a little heavy on two players. I'm content with Jordan's second comeback when he played for the Wizards. Many aren't, and I can understand why. The image above is incredibly iconic and a lot of people wanted to forever have the image of him draining a game-winner over a struggling Bryon Russell be the last they had of MJ on the court. I didn't tape the original game, but a few years later it came on ESPN Classic and I grabbed the closest VHS to tape that game. I don't remember what I taped over, but it was definitely worth. I probably watched that thing once every two weeks, all the way through. I can recall the final minute based off of memory. Jordan's Bulls were down 86-85 with about 30 seconds left. The Jazz got the ball to Karl Malone, probably their best player, on the block. Jordan snuck behind him and stripped the ball. He brought the ball up the court and stalled for a little while on the left side, near half court. He drove middle, then gave Bryon Russell the subtle push-off, step back crossover, smacking a jump shot right in his face. The Jazz got the ball and Stockton actually almost hit a game-winner. Thankfully he didn't and that image of Jordan will be with me forever. I used to imitate that move on the driveway at 106 Danbury Drive, shouting out the Bob Costas call while doing it. That shot is one of my favorite memories. Jordan scored 45 in his final game as a Bull. Jordan is so competitive that he included Bryon Russell in his Hall of Fame induction speech, just to talk about smacking that shot in his face.

4. Magic Johnson- Fills in at Center in Game 6 of the 1980 NBA Finals

Once again, I love people rising up to the occasion in an unexpected way. When Kareem Abdul-Jabar, who averaged 33 points per game in the 1980 Finals, went down with a severe ankle sprain in Game 5, the Lakers did not have a legitimate option at center for Game 6 versus the Julius Erving-led 76ers. Magic Johnson was a point guard. He was also unique, in that he was a 6'9" point guard. In Game 6, head coach Paul Westhead started rookie Magic Johnson at center. He couldn't have made a better decision. The rookie played his tail off, winning Finals MVP, and putting up an incredible stat line of 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists in Game 6. It's incredible. It's incredible because a point guard filled in for the league's all-time leading scorer at center successfully. It's even more incredible since it turned out to be the final game of the NBA Finals. It's even more incredible because it was a rookie. That's ridiculous Magic, ridiculous. Paul Westhead was let go as coach after the 1982 season, but regained notoriety by leading a little-known Loyola Marymount team to the Elite Eight in 1990, averaging a Division 1 record 122 points per game along the way.

3. Bill Russell- 30 and 40 in Game 7 of the 1962 NBA Finals

Game 7 of the NBA Finals. For a basketball player, there is no bigger stage. There's no better time to come through with a clutch performance and no better time to grit your teeth to win. I'll be the first to admit that the NBA didn't have the most parity in its early years. That's evidenced by the Celtics being able to win 11 titles in 13 years. The Celtics did have a ridiculously impressive collection of talent, though. Bob "Houdini of the Hardwood" Cousy (love that nickname), Sam Jones, K.C. Jones, Tom Heinsohn, and John Havlicek. They also had the guy that was responsible for the paint being expanded because he stood in there and blocked so many shots: Bill Russell. In the 1962 NBA Finals, the Celtics were playing the rival Lakers, who had Hall of Famers Jerry West and Elgin Baylor. In the seventh game, Bill Russell decided enough was enough. He dominated the game, by scoring 30 points and 40 rebounds. 40 REBOUNDS! The only other person that has ever mentioned those words together was a delusional buddy of mine in high school. That's absolutely ridiculous. Bill Russell had an insane amount of heart and deserved all 11 rings that he got.

2. Michael Jordan's Flu Game

Well, what do ya know? He's back! This is my favorite MJ Playoff moment. It's ridiculous how much energy this must have taken out of Jordan. As he entered the game, he looked like he had none. He should not have been playing basketball that day. Jordan struggled as the game started, but as it progressed, he knew his team was counting on him and he mustered up everything he had to deliver a win. He couldn't barely sit up in a chair, yet somehow managed to deliver with 38 points and 15 in the fourth quarter, including a crucial 3 that proved to be the difference. I swear I heard somewhere that at halftime, he thought he was drinking Gatorade, but actually drank something that dehydrated him further. Amazing what he was still able to accomplish, setting the Bulls up to win their 5th title in Game 6. This game is one of the best examples of determination and perseverance. It's so historic that the black/red colorway of the Air Jordan's he wore that game are now just known as "Flu Games." The image of him leaning on Scottie Pippen for support immediately after the game is timeless and has been my computer background on and on again, off again basis for five years. Sidenote: If there's ever a narrator for my life, it better be the narrator in the video below.

1. Bill Russell- Game 7 of the 1966 NBA Finals

Here it is folks! Boobie's Favorite Moment in NBA Postseason history. When most of you look at the box score above you probably wonder why this is my favorite moment. Michael Jordan battled through the flu in 1997. Russell had 30 and 40 in 1962. Magic played freaking center! All valid reasons to question this choice. Well, here you go. Bill Russell scored 25 points and grabbed 32 rebounds in Game 7 of the 1966 NBA Finals with a broken foot and a chipped elbow. Both of those injuries occurred in February of that year, but coach Red Auerbach swore the team to secrecy, eliminating any excuses for them not winning. With the media being so involved in today's game, that could never happen, but it did then. On the biggest stage, against the Celtics' biggest rival, he was able to produce a monstrous effort with severe injuries. That's straight toughness! To think that he'd been playing with those injuries since February makes the accomplishments even more impressive. Consider this: Jerry West led the Playoffs in scoring that year with 479 points. Bill Russell led the Playoffs in rebounding with 428 rebounds. He was only 51 rebounds from tying the amount of points the game's best scorer at the time put up in the postseason. And he accomplished that with a broken foot. I can't comprehend how that's possible. Russell became coach of the Celtics the following season, while he was still playing. They went on to win the title with him as player/coach in 1968 and 1969. His accomplishments are ridiculous, but I'll always respect Bill Russell and put his toughness on a pedestal.

1966 NBA Finals Game 7 - Lakers-Celtics by NickZepp

Well there you have it. That was Boobie's 16 Favorite NBA Postseason Moments. I hope you enjoyed reading, reminiscing, and watching some fantastic performances. I enjoyed making the list and would love to hear what you thought about it: Do you think I might have forgot one that I actually like better than any of these? Do you have a similar list? Do you have a memory associated with one of these moments?

Also, I've had people ask me if I ever post anything other than Boobie's Power Rankings. The answer is yes. Funny as it may be, this will actually be my 69th post to the blog. All you have to do is click on What Boobie Likes. at the top of the page and it will take you to Page 1 of my posts.

As always, "If you wanna find me, hit me on twitter!" @jamesmichel865

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Global Guts: Those Kids Were Wack!

I apologize to the random weirdos that the people from Nickelodeon chose to be on this show, but I, as well as pretty much all of my friends, would have destroyed you! They picked the absolute worst and most uncoordinated kids. Wish I could've had my 15 minutes of fame...

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Kanye. You can't hoop in some girl's running shorts and running shoes. Strap on your #KobeSystems or the Jordans you always yap about!

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Butler Upgrading Conference. Should be Fine

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Jams From the Day: Lloyd ft. Lil' Wayne- I Want You

This will probably be a recurring theme of posts. Jams From the Day will be me sharing songs that I really liked back in the day that I somehow stumbled across recently. Here's the first one. This was a regular on the radio years back and I get in a great mood when Lloyd says, "Stop, wait a minute."

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2pac: The Lost Interview

I'm a huge Tupac fan. I think he was amazingly talented as a rapper and actor. I also think he had some radical ideas stemming from his extremely unique thought processes. I wish he would've had the opportunity to live longer, because his ideas, along with his extreme passion had the potential to impact society in a major way. That said, this is a very, very interesting interview. Apparently, it conducted by Angie Martinez from Vibe Magazine prior to Tupac's death. The reason it was never released was because of the rawness of it, which is completely evident. She finally released it in 2010, in honor of Tupac's birthday. Also evident is the fact that Tupac is extremely paranoid, probably stemming from the false accusations of rape and his getting shot five times. Language and paranoia aside, this interview is EXTREMELY interesting. A lot of what he says is thought-provoking in a multitude of ways. I definitely recommend you watch this. It will give you a better understanding of one of music's more interesting enigmas and open your mind up to some thought.

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Donate to Charity Kim!

I found this on twitter, so don't accuse me of being all into fashion. If you know me, you see me with my outfit of maroon track pants, boat shoes, and a hoody. According to styleengine.com, the jacket Kim is wearing in the picture below costs $2,799 and the little thing she has in her hand costs $4000. The sales tax on those alone cost more than anything I own. I'm sure she does a little here and there for people, but seriously, buying stuff that expensive on the regular is a waste of money. She only does it so people think highly of her anyway. Donate to charity! And don't forget, Ray J made you!

Also, is it just me, or are Kanye's pants sagged a little too low and he might not be wearing any drawers?

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In celebration of Think Like A Man winning the box office for a second straight weekend, we present…

The 28 Sexiest Shots Of Meagan Good

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Videos for Hoopheads: April 30, 2012

Doin' It in the Park (Trailer)

@AsfaltCronicles

People that follow basketball know about Rucker Park and The Cage, if only because of NBA Street. Doin' It in the Park is an upcoming film co-directed by Bobbito Garcia, streetball legend and the announcer on NBA Street Volume 2 and V3, that chronicles New York City's obsession with outdoor basketball. The film looks to feature the stories of the greats and the everyday men together on the asphalt. If anything it will help the viewers get a better understanding for why "The City That Never Sleeps" is obsessed with playground basketball. Slated to release sometime this summer, it includes some gigantic names in the streetball community, which is no longer about the bogusness that And 1 Mixtapes portrayed it as. Reminds me very much of the Team Nike series from last summer, which followed the quest of a hand-picked streetballers on a quest to take over the city for the summer.

Aquille Carr Junior Year Highlight Mix

@themarsreel

Heard of Aquille Carr? Maybe, maybe not. Well he's a 5'6" junior point guard from Baltimore that is committed to Seton Hall. He's got ridiculous handles and extraordinary quickness. His nickname is "The Crime Stopper," because people in Baltimore say the crime rate declines when he's playing because everybody is at his games. The above video is definitely worth a look.

Michael Jordan Flu Game Tribute

To me, one of the more remarkable performances in sports. I can only imagine how exhausted he was, especially based on how he looked. The amount courage and sheer determination it took to do what MJ did that night is ridiculous. That night has become so legendary that the black and red Jordan's he wore that night are now simply referred to as "Flu Games." This is a great tribute video. Side note: I would definitely want my life highlight video to be narrated by this video's narrator.

The Season: Findlay Prep Episode 38

@findlayseason

This is a phenomenal web series that I've been following since December 2009. It gives an inside look at a program run by coach Michael Peck in Las Vegas. Within the last decade, Chuck Findlay, an auto-dealer in Vegas decided he wanted to build a high school hoops powerhouse. He has successfully done so with the help of Peck and the Henderson International School. That is where the kids attend class, as Findlay Prep is actually only a basketball program that has been approved to compete by national authorities. The series is phenomenal, giving an inside peak at what it takes to maintain an enormously successful program built upon the performance of adolescents. Findlay's alumni include: Avery Bradley, DeAndre Liggins, Tristan Thompson, Cory Joseph, Nick Johnson, Myck Kabongo, Deividas Dulkys, Jorge Guttierez, etc. Older episodes can be seen here.

Kobe Bryant HD

@xfactor541

Absolutely spectacular video. This editor collected an immaculate amount of clips from throughout Kobe's career, including high school, and put together a video that truly does capture his career within 11 minutes without narration. The editing and music is phenomenal. I'm more of a Jordan guy, and neutral in the Kobe/LeBron argument, but this video brought me chills. It is inspirational and makes you feel like you were along for the journey. PLEASE WATCH!

Hope you enjoyed this week's videos. See ya next Monday!

As always, "If you lookin' for me, hit me on twitter!" @jamesmichel865

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Zack and Slater!

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Top 10 Moments in U.S. Sports

By Lucas Forstrom

International sports are the best. If a United States team is playing, count me in. I'm a fan of them and I'm down to watch. From curling, to swimming, to soccer and everything in between. Team USA represents my country and they are my team. The moments produced by a team with an entire nation behind them are flat-out the most inspirational in all of athletics. Hit the jump for the Top 10 Moments in United States national team sports history.

10. 2011 Women’s World Cup Quarterfinals

USA vs. Brazil

I will be the first to say that I am not a fan of women’s sports.  However, this was one of the best games I have ever seen in any sport.  The US was got screwed throughout the game by the referee.  Marta played up to her title as best female player in the world for the Brazilians.  Down 2-1 to the tournament favorite in the 122nd minute in extra time, the US converted on a last-ditch effort has Megan Rapinoe’s cross found the legend Abby Wambach’s head for the equalizer and sending everyone watching ESPN in the mid afternoon into a frenzy.  The US won on dramatic penalty kicks.

9. 1999 Women’s World Cup Final

USA vs. China

For what was actually a terribly boring game, the ending is legendary.  The game went all the way to penalty kicks scoreless, where the US won 5-4 in the shootout.  Then, stunningly and memorably after scoring the winning PK, Brandi Chastain took off her shirt in celebration.  The event itself was huge.  The 90,185 in attendance at the Rose Bowl was the most attended women’s sporting event in history.  The tournament launched Mia Hamm into stardom and the image of Chastain has become iconic.

8. Dream Team Gold

Perhaps the greatest team ever assembled for anything and the gold medal game and ceremony affirmed this.  Two unbelievable stats: 10 of the 12 members of the Dream Team were named to the official list of the NBA’s 50 greatest players of all-time.  Also, Coach Chuck Daly did not call a single timeout through the entirety of the tournament.  Little known fact: Charles Barkley (18.0 ppg), not Michael Jordan (14.9 ppg) led the team in scoring.  

7. 2010 World Cup, Landon Donovan

USA vs. Algeria

The most excited I have ever gotten over sports in my life.  I am a huge US Soccer fan.  Coming into the 2010 World Cup, myself and US Soccer was full of hope, but not expectations.  The one expectation from everyone, however, was advancing out of a weak group.  Things started off on the right, rather the left, foot with Clint Dempsey scoring the weak-footed equalizer to earn the draw with favored rival England.  However, the team got off to a slow start against Slovenia, before roaring back with excitement and ultimately getting screwed into drawing the second match.  The frustration from the disappointing result continued for 90+ minutes in the final group game as the US could not find a goal against lowly Algeria.  Then, with 3 minutes left to determine whether the American team went home or won the group: it happened.  Howard. To Donovan. To Altidore. To Dempsey. Denied at the goal. Donovan with the clean-up and the USA advance.  The moment sent Lincoln’s Sports Bar, where I was, into absolute chaos.  Complete strangers jumping up and down hugging one another in the middle of the day, some of us knocking over chairs.  It was the first sporting event to truly blow up on Twitter.  Also, if you haven’t seen the “World’s Reaction” video it is truly chilling. 

6. 1999 Ryder Cup

USA vs. Europe

Golf is an individual sport, but when you make it a team event, it can be really fun.  The Europeans went into Sunday up 10-6 over the Americans at Brookline Country Club, Massachusetts.  On Saturday night, American captain, and close personal friend of mine, Ben Crenshaw told the media he had a “special feeling” about the final round.  The comment went largely ignored because, frankly, Europe was kicking the US’s ass.  However, on that Sunday something incredible happened.  Golf ceased to be golf.  Golf is quiet. Golf has goofy pants and fat asses.  Only in video games do people make putts and chips from everywhere.  Golf doesn’t have hooligans.  Golf doesn’t have players literally running around pumping up the crowd.  No, something else was being played that Sunday as Justin Leonard hit an impossibly long, difficult putt on the 17th hole to clinch the Cup for the good guys by a single point.  Note: the tournament was one of the final times the world got to see American player Payne Stewart as he died in a plane crash less than a month later.

5. 2008 Olympics, Michael Phelps

4x100 Freestyle Relay, 100m Butterfly, 4x100 Medley Relay

In his quest to become the greatest Olympian in history, Michael Phelps narrowing succeeded on two occasions.  The 4x100 Freestyle Relay saw American Jason Lezak come from well behind on the anchor leg to surpass the French and win by eight hundredths of a second.  The win was Phelps second gold of ’08.  If that wasn’t close enough, Phelps won his 7th gold medal by one hundredth of a second in spectacular and controversial fashion.  The win tied Mark Spitz for the record of 7 gold medals in a single Olympics.  The record breaking 8th gold medal came by helping win the 4x100m Medley Relay and solidified him as the greatest Olympian in history. 

4. 1996 Olympics, Kerri Strug

Gymnastics

This is perhaps the most inspirational single performance in sports history.  On the last rotation of the team gymnastics competition, Kerri Strug badly injured her ankle in her first attempt on vault.  However, with the US team clinging to a slim lead over the Russian team, the Americans needed one final vault to secure gold.  Thus, Kerri Strug limped to the end of the runway.  Putting all pain aside, the 18-year old sprinted down the runway and nailed a nearly perfect fault, landing on both feet before dropping to her knees in pain.  She received a 9.712 score and captured the gold medal for the team.  Her injury prevented Strug from competing in the remaining individual events. 

3. 1936 Olympics, Jesse Owens

This is where the moments begin to supersede sports.  The 1936 Berlin Olympics were supposed to be the platform for which Adolf Hitler displayed to the world the superiority of the German, Aryan race.  And, the German team performed exceedingly well.  However, thanks to Jesse Owens, nobody remembers that.  Owens won gold in the 100m sprint, the long jump, the 200m sprint, and the 4x100m relay, becoming the unrivaled star of the Games, to the great resentment of Hitler.  It was the first time the United States had been represented by a black man.  By that, I don’t mean in the Olympics.  Other African-Americans had previously competed.  Jesse Owens at the 1936 Olympics was the first time a black man truly represented the people, attitudes, and ideas of the American people as a whole to the rest of the world.          

2. 1968 Olympics, “Black Power” Salute

Tommie Smith and John Carlos

1968 was one of the most pivotal years in American history.  Tommie Smith and John Carlos threw the proverbial gas on the fire at the Olympics by giving the “black power” salute on the medal podium during the national anthem.  Nobody remembers the event they won and nobody cares, but the salute they gave on the medal stand is one of the iconic images in American culture.  The best thing about the moment was that despite it being controversial, Tommie Smith and John Carlos became heroes, complete with awards and statues.  Compare that to German, Soviet, Chinese, and North Korean athletes who have been subject to prison and worse over the years for merely underperforming.  That helps illustrate the greatness of America.

1.     1980 Olympics, Miracle On Ice

USA vs. Soviet Union, Hockey Semifinals

Easily the most memorable US team accomplishment in ever.  Everybody knows the story, hell Disney made a movie out of it.  The team full of college kids that no one had ever heard of beat the mighty Russians.  The Soviets were widely considered the greatest hockey team ever assembled.  After all, they beat the NHL all-star team 6-0 right before the Olympics.  The victory over the Soviets was so much more than a hockey game.  It has been credited for everything from starting the “U-S-A, U-S-A” chant to the winning of the Cold War.  While the truth lies somewhere in between, the game’s effect on the country cannot be understated.  The United States was in dire straits.  The economy was in the tank.  The hostages were being held in Iran.  The president (Jimmy Carter) was historically unpopular.  The Soviet Union was expanding communism into Afghanistan.  The ��Miracle On Ice” marked a complete divergence for both nations.  The US became the world’s foremost economic and military superpower.  The hostages were released in January of 1981.  Jimmy Carter went on to win a Nobel Peace Prize.  The Soviet Union collapsed in 1991.  While the “Miracle On Ice” may not have caused these things to happen, in retrospect, it looks like, and may have been, the first domino in the series of extraordinarily unlikely events.    

Well, there you have it folks. The Top 10 Moments in Team USA History. Opinions sometimes differ so hit up the author, Lucas, on twitter @lucasfiasco4

[randomlifeofboobie-blog]

Don Trip is Gonna Blow!

I'm from Tennessee, born and raised. That's why I'm going to always put on for Tennessee, regardless of how far Memphis is from Oak Ridge. A lot of people know Don Trip because he was named to XXL's Freshman Class, a list in which I think he is one of the two or three legitimately talented rappers. I know Don Trip because of Step Brothers, his mixtape with Nashville rapper Starlito, who is ridiculously popular in my hometown. In the webisode, Trip gets the co-sign from Timbaland at SXSW in Austin, TX. That's pretty big! In my opinion, he's going to take off big time in the near future. Hopefully he brings Lito with him, because that would be very fun for me to follow. I'll probably share future webisodes from his "Help Is On The Way" series. In the meantime, check out Trip's single "Allen Iverson," which blends great lyrics with clips from various A.I.'s press conferences and interviews.

[randomlifeofboobie-blog]

Arizona-Bound SG Gabe York is EXCITING!

Arizona-Bound SG Gabe York (Orange Lutheran, CA)

Hit the jump for an absolutely INSANE senior year highlight mix!

Shabazz Muhammad is phenomenal. He was the most polished and skilled high school senior in the country this year and I don't think you'll find anyone arguing with you. Nerlens Noel will be a freak at Kentucky. They say he blocks shots better than Anthony Davis, is physically more impressive, and is developing a solid offensive game in the paint. Jabari Parker is the truth. I've seen him in person, and he plays so efficiently and can do almost whatever he wants to at the high school level. Don't get it twisted, those three deserve their praise, but Gabe York holds my favorite highlight tapes in the country right now. He's hyper-athletic, has smooth handles, an icy stroke, and a tenacity about his game. This highlight tape is ridiculous! The crazy thing is that the kid had to miss a number of game due to having his appendix taken out. Hope he does well at Arizona. He's part of an insane recruiting class. Might have to tone down the shot selection a little bit though. Check it out!

[randomlifeofboobie-blog]

In truth a family is what you make it. It is made strong, not by number of heads counted at the dinner table, but by the rituals you help family members create, by the memories you share, by the commitment of time, caring, and love you show to one another, and by the hopes for the future you have as individuals and as a unit.

Marge Kennedy

[randomlifeofboobie-blog]

Yung Swag: Texas's Star PG Myck Kabongo Can Flow

Myck "Yung Swag" Kabongo

"Never trust a soul, cuz everybody jackin' like Kobe in the fourth."- Yung Swag