#Martin Basketball Association

[icreativewriter]

The Mental Game: How Professional Basketball Players Stay Focused and Motivated

In the world of professional basketball, exceptional physical skills alone are not enough to guarantee success. The mental game plays a crucial role in determining the performance of athletes on the court. Top-tier basketball players understand that maintaining focus and motivation is paramount to achieving peak performance and surpassing their limits.

In this blog post, we will delve into the strategies and techniques employed by professional basketball players to stay mentally strong and motivated throughout their careers. From visualization and mindfulness practices to goal setting and self-talk, we will explore the inner workings of the minds of these extraordinary athletes. Whether you're an aspiring player or a fan, understanding the mental game can provide valuable insights into the world of professional basketball.

The Power of Visualization

Visualization is a powerful tool that basketball players utilize to enhance their performance. By vividly imagining successful game scenarios, players create a mental blueprint that primes their minds and muscles for success.

By visualizing precise movements, strategies, and positive outcomes, athletes develop a heightened sense of familiarity and confidence in executing those actions during actual games. This mental rehearsal helps reduce anxiety, improve decision-making, and boost overall performance.

Harnessing Mindfulness

Mindfulness practices have gained significant popularity in recent years, and basketball players are no exception to this trend. Mindfulness cultivates present-moment awareness, enabling players to fully immerse themselves in the game, stay focused, and minimize distractions.

By training with different basketball training programs, their minds to let go of past mistakes and future worries, and athletes can maintain clarity and make split-second decisions with precision. Regular mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing and body scans, contribute to improved concentration, emotional regulation, and a greater sense of control on the court.

Setting Goals for Success

Setting clear and specific goals is a fundamental aspect of the mental game for basketball players. Goal setting provides direction, motivation, and a sense of purpose. By establishing short-term and long-term goals, athletes create a roadmap for personal and team success.

Goals should be challenging yet attainable, allowing players to stretch their abilities and constantly strive for improvement. Additionally, breaking larger goals into smaller, manageable milestones enables players to track progress and stay motivated in the face of adversity.

The Power of Positive Self-Talk

Positive self-talk is a mental technique that basketball players employ to cultivate a winning mindset. By using affirmations and positive internal dialogue, athletes shape their thoughts and beliefs in a way that promotes confidence, resilience, and determination.

Self-talk can help players overcome self-doubt, stay focused under pressure, and bounce back from setbacks. By replacing negative thoughts with empowering ones, basketball players maintain a mental state that fosters optimal performance and unwavering motivation.

Building Resilience through Adversity

Adversity is an inevitable part of any athlete's journey, and basketball training is no exception. Building resilience is crucial to overcoming setbacks and maintaining motivation. Players learn to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and develop a mindset that reframes failures as stepping stones toward success.

They bounce back from defeats, learn from mistakes, and maintain a positive outlook even in the face of adversity. By developing resilience, basketball players strengthen their mental fortitude and become more determined to achieve their goals.

Utilizing Pre-Game Routines

Pre-game routines play a significant role in helping basketball players enter a focused and motivated state before stepping onto the court. These routines are personalized rituals that allow athletes to mentally prepare for the game. They might include activities such as listening to music, engaging in stretching exercises, reviewing game plans, or engaging in calming rituals.

By following consistent pre-game routines, players create a sense of familiarity and control, helping them transition from everyday life to the intensity of the game. These routines contribute to mental readiness, focus, and a heightened state of motivation.

Seeking Support and Mentoring

Even the most accomplished professional basketball players understand the importance of seeking support and guidance. They surround themselves with a strong support system, including coaches, teammates, and mentors who provide valuable feedback, motivation, and advice. This support network helps players stay accountable, navigate challenges, and maintain perspective.

Mentors, often former players or coaches, share their wisdom and experiences, offering guidance on the mental aspects of the game. By leaning on their support system and basketball coaches, basketball players find solace, inspiration, and the motivation to keep pushing their limits.

Embracing Rest and Recovery

Rest and recovery are essential components of maintaining mental focus and motivation for basketball players. Adequate sleep, nutrition, and downtime allow the mind and body to rejuvenate, promoting optimal performance.

Rest days and periods of relaxation help prevent burnout and mental fatigue, enabling athletes to approach each game with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Understanding the importance of rest and recovery allows players to prioritize self-care, strike a balance between training and rest, and sustain long-term motivation and mental sharpness.

FAQ Section

Q1: How long does it take to develop a strong mental game?

A1: Developing a strong mental game is a continuous process. It requires consistent practice and dedication over an extended period. Athletes typically engage in mental training throughout their careers to strengthen their mental resilience and performance.

Q2: Can mental techniques be applied to other sports or areas of life?

A2: Absolutely! The mental techniques used by basketball players can be applied to various sports and areas of life. Visualization, mindfulness, goal setting, and positive self-talk are universally applicable to enhance performance, focus, and motivation.

Conclusion

Remember, developing a strong mental game takes time and consistent effort. Just as professional basketball players invest in their mental well-being, you too can embark on this journey of self-improvement and unlock your full potential. So, lace up your sneakers, adopt a champion's mindset, and let the mental game elevate your performance both on and off the basketball

[basketballhqs]

[leilanihours]

LANI'S MASTERLIST ! 🗄️

— a location for all my works

women's college basketball !

# 5 — paige bueckers, the university of connecticut

# TALK THAT TALK TO ME ALL NIGHT (wc: 849)

summary: your first personal encounter with uconn's favorite athlete goes surprisingly smooth

# I'LL DO ANYTHING YOU SAY IF YOU SAY IT WITH YOUR HANDS (wc: 642)

summary: sleepy paige doesn't want you (her favorite pillow) to leave

# IMGONNAGETYOUBACK (wc: 4880)

summary: your "rivalry" with a certain uconn blonde has its speculations, but no one knows what happened behind the scenes

# TO MY BED (wc: 2055) *18+

summary: you can't help yourself when paige is sitting on your couch looking sexy as ever

# I LOVE TO LOVE (wc: n/a, social media)

summary: you and paige find the wnba draft as a perfect opportunity to hard launch your relationship

# LIKE CLOCKWORK (wc: 1532)

summary: in a heated game, your girlfriend doesn't hesitate to step up and defend you

# HAND UNDER MY SWEATSHIRT, BABY, KISS IT BETTER // YOU DREW STARS AROUND MY SCARS (wc: 613)

summary: paige takes care of you after you get hurt during practice

# SHE WAS CRYIN' ON MY SHOULDER, ALL I COULD DO WAS HOLD HER (wc: 815)

summary: you and paige both have things you need to get off your chests one year after you break up

# ADORN (wc: 1657)

summary: your relationship with paige gets exposed, but with her still in your arms, is it really the end of the world?

# YOU ARE IN LOVE (wc: 2177)

summary: the picture-perfect story of your love.

# PARDON MY EMOTIONS, I SHOULD PROBABLY KEEP IT ALL TO MYSELF (wc: 354)

summary: your bus buddy wants to be more than buddies.

# ABOUT YOU (wc: 1389)

summary: paige reunites with her favorite reporter.

# 44 — aubrey griffin, the university of connecticut

# SUPERNATURAL (wc: 1322)

summary: you meet some of aubrey's teammates for the first time

# GET YOU (wc: 1808)

summary: even when you get injured in a game against your girlfriend and her team, she ignores all common sense to help you

# 23 — morgan cheli, the university of connecticut

# I KNOW WE'RE HAVING FUN BUT WHAT'S THE RUSH? KISS AND THEN MY CHEEKS ARE SO FLUSHED (wc: 991)

summary: you and your roommate may or may not have developed feelings for each other, displaying your secret crushes through fleeting touches and light affection

# ALL I KNOW SINCE YESTERDAY IS EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED (wc: 966)

summary: morgan gets a little lost at orientation, but luckily has you to help her out

# 35 — azzi fudd, the university of connecticut

coming soon !

women's national basketball association !

# 1 — nika muhl, the seattle storm

# UNTIL I FOUND YOU (wc: 2243)

summary: your perfect girlfriend loves to spoil you with her deep love and meaningful presents, especially on your special day

# STEAL MY GIRL (wc: 1750)

summary: even in a sea of nika's most supportive fans, you always stand out the most

# EVERYTHING (wc: 1215)

summary: the day you and nika become dog moms

# SATIVA (wc: 1382) *18+

summary: after watching nika play your favorite sport at the beach, you had to get a taste of her (maybe a little more than a taste...)

# I JUST WANNA FUCK YOU 'TILL YOU CRY, VINTAGE DIOR (wc: 897) *18+

summary: after a dior photoshoot and a certain blonde getting too close to you, nika needs to show you that she's the only one who deserves touch you

# YOUR LOVE IS A SECRET I'M HOPING, DREAMING, DYING TO KEEP (wc: 896)

summary: apparently azzi and nika are with their..."boyfriends"

# 20 — kate martin, the las vegas aces

# GOLD RUSH (wc: 1780)

summary: kate being the cutest most adoring girlfriend ever while you get ready on live

# YOU KEEP ME OPEN, I'M SO DEVOTED (wc: 710)

summary: you show your love and appreciation for kate after she had a difficult time at practice

# TO THE MOON AND TO SATURN (wc: n/a, social media)

summary: you spend your twenty-fourth birthday with your girlfriend and teammates

# SHOW U OFF (wc: 1185)

summary: you surprise your girlfriend at her home game on her birthday

# WHERE'S THE TROPHY? SHE JUST COMES RUNNING OVER TO ME (wc: 914)

summary: kate has her priorities set when her team wins the final four game

# WHILE WE'RE YOUNG (wc: 1084)

summary: you and kate hard launch your relationship to your teams

# SHAMELESS (wc: 1299) *18+

summary: you're tired of pretending you're not attracted to kate and kate is just tired of your attitude

# SUPERPOWERS (wc: 1111)

summary: kate is the only one who knows how to keep you centered when you drift away from your priorities

# 22 — caitlin clark (no longer writing for), the indiana fever

# SO HIGH SCHOOL (wc: 1290)

summary: caitlin’s drunken actions have you feeling like a lovesick teenager

# DRESS (wc: 3790) *18+

summary: after a long day of unbelievable success, you end the night with your girlfriend in the best way possible

# END GAME (wc: 2493)

summary: caitlin acting like an obsessed fangirl when she show up at your concert

# 5 — angel reese, the chicago sky

coming soon !

# 10 — kelsey plum, the las vegas aces

coming soon !

# 22 — a'ja wilson, the las vegas aces

coming soon !

series !

coming soon !

other masterlists !

1k celebration

the people on this list are currently who i have requests/drafts for but feel free to suggest others !

requests are currently open !

please be patient !

[gailslunchbox]

WNBA fans wanna call CC fans insurable?

Let’s talk about y’all.

CC brings a new level of attention on women’s basketball in general. She was the only sports story all fall/winter long, which we’ve almost never seen before from a women’s basketball player, MUCH less a NCAA women’s basketball player. That’s when this starts. She’s going to be exposed for her lack of defense and the WNBA players are experienced and more physical. Y’all could have just supported her desire to succeed as a professional player, but no, the bullshit already began.

Then it becomes clear that Caitlin is selling out arenas, opposing teams are moving to larger venues, and viewership is at an all time high but noooooo…Caitlin didn’t have anything to do with that and veteran players were keeping the league alive.

Caitlin is fouled from behind, in a non basketball play, and her players didn’t immediately rush to start a physical fight, which is how professional athletes should conduct themselves. So that somehow turns into a reflection of Caitlin not having her teammates back and that’s why they didn’t rush to defend her.

Her boyfriend of over a year liked ONE tweet that I’ve seen you all post and her brother likes a tweet and she’s associating with known racists and she won’t speak publicly on LGBTQ+ and BLM movements, so she doesn’t stand for what the WNBA does.

Caitlin doesn’t make the Olympic roster and texts her coach a personal reaction, likely more about her motivation to make the next roster and not her trying to shit on the current roster. Suddenly it’s about her ego and her ignorance that she actually thought she would make the team. Of course she did, she sets high expectations for herself. It doesn’t mean she dissed the players who did make the roster.

Kate Martin makes a comment about her leadership at Las Vegas and it turns into a CC debate.

I’m so fucking tired of the “OG fans” turning everything into a debate and using it as a reason to shit on someone who literally just wants to play basketball and help her team succeed. It’s petty, it’s exhausting, and it’s disheartening to see so many fans of the league try to turn a YOUNG woman into the villain she isn’t.

Just enjoy the game, stop turning everything into a debate like they do with politics. Fuck. The only “CC fans” creating drama on social media are trolls. The rest are actual basketball fans who are excited to see the sport grow and young girls who now aspire to be like CC. And you’re the most unwelcoming fanbase in history. Period.

[lboogie1906]

Mayor Byron William Brown II (born September 24, 1958) is a politician who is the current mayor of Buffalo, New York. He has served as Buffalo’s 62nd mayor since January 2006 and is the City’s first African American mayor. He served Western New York as a member of the New York State Senate and Buffalo Common Council. He was the first African-American politician elected to the New York State Senate to represent a district outside New York City and the first member of any minority race to represent a majority-white New York State Senate district.

He rose to elected office after serving in a variety of political roles. He began his political career performing as an aide to local representatives in several legislative bodies (Buffalo Common Council, Erie County Legislature, and New York State Assembly) and became involved in a regional political organization. After several roles as a legislative aide, he was appointed to the Erie County cabinet-level Director of Equal Employment Opportunity post.

After graduating from August Martin High School, he attended Buffalo State College. He played a year as a Junior Varsity basketball guard. While he had considered a potential medical career, he graduated with a dual BA in political science and journalism. He completed a certificate program for senior executives in state and local government at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

While mayor, he has performed at least one wedding ceremony at the church. He is a chapter president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, a past President of the Buffalo State College Alumni Association Board, and at the time of his mayoral inauguration, he sat on the Board of the Boy Scout Council of Western New York and the Community Action Organization of Erie County. He collects tropical fish and maintains an aquarium in his Buffalo Mayor’s office. He is a member of the Erie County Democratic Committee. He was a delegate to the 1992, 2000, and 2004 Democratic National Conventions. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence #alphaphialpha

[sergeifyodorov]

all of your aces facts are correct. a'ja is definitely mcjesus, kelsey plum is DEFINITELY hot (sidebar i had a HUGE baby gay crush on her when she played for the university of washington which was very inconvenient for me because my hometown university was in the same athletic conference (r.i.p. pac-12) and she was VERY good in college and thus very annoying when she played against my school), the classic rookie treatment™ of kate martin is one of my personal favorite storylines so far this season and one of the things that has endeared me to the aces more and more against my will, and they are indeed the reigning champs for the past two years in a row (though idk that they'll be able to threepeat this year considering the amount of players they'll have playing for usa basketball at the olympics. generally in olympic years the contender teams who have the least amount of olympians have a better chance at the championship), also to be completely honest i don't actually watch men's basketball so i can't say that i know much more than you in that regard.

mainly i just thought it was interesting to see your perception of evil vegas sports team (vgk) (which i agree with) vs good vegas sports team (aces) which is slightly more complicated imo. in wnba fan-spheres people either tend to LOVE the aces or HATE the aces. i would say i'm somewhat in the middle. they're definitely not my team, but i like the players and admire the whole super-team/dynasty thing they've been building. the org has a history of some sketchy behavior though (definitely not unusual for a sports team and doubly not unusual for a vegas sports team). my feelings on the alleged bribes and the paying players under the table to take team-friendly deals stuff is i don't particularly care that much and i'd much rather players get paid more in general. but the ownership is consistently shady and there was an incident a couple seasons ago regarding pregnancy discrimination that they barely got a slap on the wrist for from the league so that's mostly where any negative feelings about them stem from for me. the players pretty unanimously sided with the org when the player in question had previously been really close with a lot of them. and the fans tend to be VERY defensive of any criticism having to do with the team and tend to take it as a personal slight against the players/fans, even if it's directed fairly at the ownership, front office, or coaching staff. to be clear, i'm not trying to negatively sway your feelings about the team. it was just interesting because i pretty strongly associate the vgk and the aces with one another and see them as like birds of a feather in a way.

all that aside, your most important wnba opinion is loving angel reese. that is absolutely the correct opinion to have. angel haters go to hell. in all seriousness though, i could talk about how much i love her for hours, but i fear the amount i've already typed is bordering on insanity (genuinely though i'm sooooo sorry for infodumping this crazy-person rant at you. thanks for listening to my ramblings of a madwoman if you made it this far 🙃)

no no i am SO here for it im taking notes im getting invested (cody... your hockey players... CODY YOUR HOCKEY PLAYERS) <- i can hold many athletes in my heart at once, says man still not over jose bautista. -> anyway that seems really interesting esp re olympics... so the wnba playoffs and the olys are at the same time??? for real??? seems like if that's the case then you'd want to go for a lot more of liek a balanced build then, except then i'm remembering my one (1) Theory Of Basketball fact which is that having a mcjesus or, in this case, an a'ja wilson is a lot more helpful to the cause in bball than it is in hockey

also my opinion of angel is mostly bc i am a defender against the just blatantly horrible misogynoir shes faced in her rookie year (esp juxtaposed against cc, who has also been propped up as some sort of saviour of the wnba, as if the wnba hasn't been getting steadily more popular over the years ANYWAY -_- ) and also she seems like a Top Tier Sweetie. and im taken to understand shes very good as well? true? im so out of the basketball loop i don't know what makes you good in that sport (...buckets...?) but angel >>

[xtruss]

I Lost White Friends When I Finally Spoke Out

— Leron L. Barton | Wednesday July 26, 2023

LeRon L. Barton (Pictured) tells Newsweek about the racist experiences he has had with his white friends over the years. Courtesy: LeRon L. Barton

Having friendships with different types of people is a wonderful concept. To learn, trade ideas, have great experiences, and grow with folks from all kinds of backgrounds is a goal that I have always wanted to achieve.

As someone who loves gaining knowledge and immersing myself in various customs, it's essential for me to expand my social circle. I have friends who are Black like myself, Chinese, Filipino, Mexican, Italian, Salvadoran, Irish, Indigenous, and Arab. We discuss politics, food, sports, music, traveling, film, and life. I love having a wealth of friends that will bring different perspectives in life, and that I can impart wisdom to as well.

However, race and racism have always been difficult to discuss with white people due to the possibility that they may deflect, or be in denial—which is why the subject of race has been the hardest to broach.

Remembering back as a young kid, my family did not have a lot of white friends. It is not because they didn't like them; my cousin married a white woman. It's just that in Kansas City, Missouri, our social circles did not cross.

My grandparents, mother, and father instilled a lot of Black pride in us. We were taught that everyone is the same, but also that Black is beautiful. For me, that was necessary living in a time that told you that you were the opposite.

My brother and I went to a predominately white school and mostly played with Black kids. Still, like many African-Americans, we welcomed white people and held no malice toward them.

I did not make any white friends until my junior year in high school. We all played sports together, listened to hip-hop, and ate the same food. Plenty of friend groups were integrated, including mine. We had Black, white, Asian, Mexican, Puerto Rican, and Indigenous folks in our clique.

It was dope to be able to learn, build, and enjoy other cultures. However, I always noticed there was a difference in how people of color interacted with each other and how my white friends did. There was a warmth in how we hung out. My family welcomed them and vice versa.

But when it came to my white friends, I felt there was a ceiling, a stopping point. A lot of the interactions were surface-level and not deep.

I was always race conscious; being in Kansas City does that to you. It was, and continues to be, a very segregated city. Still, I would try to laugh off racist jokes I heard at work and amongst people in social situations.

I can recall during an offsite lunch event, police entered the restaurant and a coworker joked: "Oh they must be looking for you LeRon." They all laughed, and me being the only Black person at the table, brushed it off and tried to laugh along with it.

My white friends and associates would ask me things like: "Do you play basketball? Do you know anyone that sells drugs? Have you ever been in a gang?"

And they even asked if it was okay for them to say the N-word in a rap song.

These were my day-to-day interactions with white people. I am not trying to paint them all as being harmful and bad, but I have to be honest.

Things began to change for me in 2012. Trayvon Martin was murdered and there was this national conversation about race. Many people had been arguing both sides of the incident.

When I would talk to my white friends about the shooting, the protests, and the uprisings that followed, they would say things like: "What was he doing out there that late? Do we know for sure if he attacked Zimmerman? Why protest and destroy property?"

It was almost as if the rose-colored glasses I had were flung off. When unarmed Black men such as Mike Brown and Alton Sterling were killed by the police, I would see negative comments on social media from friends.

Someone that I had known for years had complained about the protests destroying their quiet neighborhood. Other folks would say "All Lives Matter" or "What about Black-on-Black crime?"

These were the same people that loved Michael Jordan, listened to Snoop Dogg, and cheered Ray Lewis as they watched the Super Bowl. It was as if they only consumed Blackness as entertainment, not as people.

Soon after, I began to write about being Black in America. I would call out racism white explicitly and highlight the inequities of police arrests and shootings, employment, health disparities, and home ownership.

Some white friends noticed my shift in tone and faded away. My televised interviews and podcast appearances became too much for some. I was known as "militant" to a few folks and angry to others.

One friend in particular could not understand why I was so mad. I explained to him it was because as a Black man, if I scare a white woman or make a white law enforcement officer nervous, that could be my life.

He then said: "I don't see you as Black, just as a man." I replied: "That is the problem, you don't want to acknowledge the issue here, racism." He and I stopped talking shortly after.

I was the cool guy when we were going drinking, clubbing, and talking about non-serious things, but when I discuss "The Talk", a conversation that Black parents have with their children on how to survive when they reach a certain age, I am too serious or divisive.

I realized the ceiling I have with many white people and have accepted it.

I've met other Black people that do not have white friends. While I do not subscribe to nor agree with that thought, I do not judge them. Being Black, or being any racialized person in a world that tells you you are less than, is hard. Having to justify your existence every day to people you are close to is even harder.

I think back to this quote I read from Stud Terkel's masterful book Race. Terkel is interviewing a young African-American man who does not have white friends. He asks the guy: "Why do you only hang out with Black people?" The young man laughs and says: "I don't have to worry about them being racist." I think about that sometimes.

Today, I have a few white friends that are "grandfathered" in. Seriously, they are people, such as one of my best friends "Frosty," that I can have serious discussions about racism and how we can change the system. New friends are "vetted."

Writing and discussing race is a very important part of my life. If I have to argue with you about why we are upset when another unarmed Black man is shot by the police, this is not going to work. If I have to explain to you why saying the "N-word" is wrong, cultural appropriation is bad, something innocuous as the slogan "Black Lives Matter" is a positive thing, or why Malcolm X is my personal hero, then this friendship will not work out. I am not teaching "Intro to Blackness 101."

Some reading this may say: "Well LeRon, what if people don't know? We have to teach them."

To that, I say no.

I believe that Black people live in a country that constantly tries to strangle every bit of self-respect, pride, individuality, love, and life out of them. It is an everyday challenge for us to maintain our mental health.

I ask white people who are well-meaning to practice self-reflection. Interrogate your racist blind spots. Educate yourselves. Fight against the system that oppresses us and others.

Black people do not have enough time in the day to survive and help you become not racist. Being a friend is about accountability and work.

— LeRon L. Barton is a Writer, Author, and Speaker.

[chasadavis]

The Big Ten as Westerosi Houses

The Big Ten welcomed its four new members with an updated version of their infamous map commercial, which is a riff on the opening credits of Game of Thrones.  While some schools do not have much history with the century old membership, there are some similarities with the great houses of Westeros.  Below are associations of each football program in relation to the families and groups in George R. R. Martin’s fiction. 

The better version with actual stadiums:

Purdue – House Strong of Harrenhall

The idea of the Big Ten was first initiated in West Lafayette.  Harrenhall was the first large fortress before the Conquest. 

Illinois – House Tully of Riverrun

Lord of the Mississippi, Ohio and Illinois Riverlands.  Descendants of the First Men and the Andals.  

Northwestern – House Frey of the Twins

The Freys resent their overlords in the Riverlands.  Like to tax crossings in Chicago, even though alumni from Illinois outnumber them. Established in 1851 to serve the historic The Northwest Territory in the Neck.

Wisconsin – House Stark of Winterfell

The First Men who won a Big Ten Championship in 1896.

Minnesota – House Bolton of the Dreadfort

It is said that the enmity between Houses Stark and Bolton goes back to the Long Night since Minnesota and those badgers have the longest football rivalry in the nation. 

Michigan – House Lanaster of Casterly Rock

Think they should be Hand of the King and run the Conference as Golden Maize and Blue.

Iowa – House Arryn of the Eyrie

Birds of a feather should flock together.

Indiana – House Velayron of Driftmark

Once proud house whose exploits are better known in the seas called basketball. 

Ohio State – House Targaryen of  King’s Landing

Dominated the Conference since their Conquest and the Ten Years War with Woody Hayes. 

Michigan State – House Greyjoy of the Iron Islands

They do not sow.  Love to pillage on the west coast of Michigan. 

Penn State – House Baratheon of Storm’s End

Thought they would be king when joining in 1994. 

Nebraska – Night’s Watch as Castle Black

The Blackshirt Defense mans the Wall in Lincoln.

Rutgers – House Tyrell of Highgarden

Relatively new lords in the prosperous Reach of New Jersey and York

Maryland – House Hightower at Oldtown

Proximity to the old capital.  Their seal even looks like the globes at the Citadel.

USC – House Martell of Sunspear

Westeros rotated 90 degrees is the size of the USA, thus Dorne is California.

UCLA – House Dayne of Starfall

The Sword of the Morning was forged where a meteor named Lew Alcindor landed. 

Washington – House Mormont of Bear Island

The Pacific Northwest is akin to Bear Island, Longcraw’s pommel was changed to a Huskie. 

Oregon – the Free Folk at Hardhome

Our last addition to the conference is a wilding invasion. 

[ulkaralakbarova]

Two street basketball hustlers try to con each other, then team up for a bigger score. Credits: TheMovieDb. Film Cast: Sidney Deane: Wesley Snipes Billy Hoyle: Woody Harrelson Gloria Clement: Rosie Perez Rhonda Deane: Tyra Ferrell Robert: Cylk Cozart Junior: Kadeem Hardison George: Ernest Harden Jr. Walter: John Marshall Jones Raymond: Marques Johnson T.J.: David Roberson Zeke: Kevin Benton Dwight ‘The Flight’ McGhee: Nigel Miguel Willie Lewis: Duane Martin Self: Bill Henderson Self: Sonny Craver Self: Jon Hendricks Tony Stucci: Eloy Casados Frank Stucci: Frank Rossi Duck Johnson: Freeman Williams Eddie ‘The King’ Faroo: Louis Price Himself: Alex Trebek Reggie: Reggie Leon Etiwanda: Sarah Stavrou Tad: Reynaldo Rey Lanei: Lanei Chapman Real Estate Agent: Irene Nettles Tanya: Torri Whitehead Alisa: Lisa McDowell The Bank: Dion B. Vines Malcolm: David Maxwell Tournament Announcer: Bill Caplan Tournament Referee: Richard James Baker Big Guy’s Girlfriend: Amy Golden Little Guy’s Girlfriend: Jeanette Srubar Sponsor: Zandra Hill Sponsor: Fred P. Gregory Pickup Truck Driver: Carl E. Hodge Ruben: Ruben Martinez Oki-Dog Businessman: Gary Lazer Yolanda: Donna Howell Jake: Don Fullilove Jeopardy! Announcer: Johnny Gilbert Dr. Leonard Allen: Leonard A. Oakland Rocket Scientist: Allan Malamud Dressing Room Staffer: Jeanne McCarthy Cop: John Charles Sheehan Leon: Gregg Daniel Gambler: Carl A. McGee NBA Announcer: Chick Hearn NBA Announcer: Stu Lantz Ballplayer: Ronald Beals Ballplayer: Joe Metcalf Ballplayer: Mahcoe Moore Ballplayer: Mark Hill Ballplayer: Eric Kizzie Ballplayer: Chalmer Maddox Ballplayer: Leroy Michaux Ballplayer: Joseph Duffy Ballplayer: Pete Duffy Ballplayer: Gary Moeller Ballplayer: Daniel Porto Ballplayer: Lester Hawkins Ballplayer: Jeffrey Todd Film Crew: Producer: Don Miller Director: Ron Shelton Producer: David V. Lester Editor: Kimberly Ray Director of Photography: Russell Boyd Editor: Paul Seydor Costume Design: Francine Jamison-Tanchuck Production Design: J. Dennis Washington Art Direction: Roger G. Fortune Executive Producer: Michele Rappaport Casting: Victoria Thomas Unit Production Manager: Ed Milkovich Set Decoration: Robert R. Benton Sound Re-Recording Mixer: Gregg Rudloff Makeup Department Head: Stephanie Cozart Burton Hair Department Head: Sterfon Demings Makeup Artist: Patricia Messina Hairstylist: Kenneth Walker Second Assistant Director: Robert J. Metoyer First Assistant Director: Richard Alexander Wells Sound Editor: Patrick Bietz ADR Editor: Barbara J. Boguski Sound Editor: Robert Bradshaw Sound Re-Recording Mixer: David E. Campbell Sound Editor: Larry Carow Foley Editor: Bill Dannevik Foley Editor: Michael Dressel Supervising Sound Editor: Gordon Ecker Supervising Sound Editor: Bruce Fortune Sound Mixer: Kirk Francis Foley Editor: Leslie Gaulin Sound Editor: Howell Gibbens ADR Editor: Holly Huckins ADR Mixer: Doc Kane Sound Editor: John Kwiatkowski Sound Editor: Kimberly Lowe Voigt Sound Editor: Anthony Milch ADR Editor: Michele Perrone Sound Re-Recording Mixer: John T. Reitz Foley Editor: Steve Richardson Sound Editor: Steve Schwalbe Foley Editor: Shawn Sykora Sound Editor: Richard E. Yawn Stunts: Gary Baxley Stunts: Simone Boisseree Stunts: Mike Johnson Stunt Coordinator: Julius LeFlore Stunts: Scott Leva Casting Associate: Jory Weitz Costume Supervisor: Betty Jean Slater Camera Operator: Mike Benson Steadicam Operator: Michael Meinardus Gaffer: Patrick Murray Grip: Mark Pearson Grip: Ty Suehiro Grip: Clay H. Wilson Grip: Edmond Wright Movie Reviews:

[sparklymentalitypanda]

The Remarkable Stories Behind NBA Players' Jersey Numbers Will Leave You Speechless!

Have you ever wondered about the stories behind NBA players' jersey numbers? Each number holds a unique and personal significance, reflecting moments, influences, and memories from the players' lives. In this video, we discuss why players like Michael Carter-Williams, Jonathan Isaac, and others chose their jersey numbers. So, let's watch the entire video and learn about the remarkable stories behind NBA players' jersey numbers will leave you speechless.

Michael Carter-Williams When Michael Carter-Williams was playing in Chicago, his preferred numbers were taken. Inspired by his daughter Charlie, who was born in July, he chose the number 7 to honor her. Being a father profoundly changed his perspective, making every decision revolve around his child.

Jonathan Isaac In high school, Jonathan Isaac couldn’t wear number 1 because it was taken by another player. When he got drafted by the Orlando Magic, he chose number 1 without hesitation, despite the legacy of NBA legends like Penny Hardaway and Tracy McGrady who wore it before him. He decided to embrace the challenge and the history associated with the number.

Mo Bamba Mo Bamba usually favored number 11, but since it was taken by another player when he joined the team, he chose number 5. Although 11 had no special meaning, he grew to like the number 5 and might switch back in the future.

Jerel Martin Jerel Martin wanted to wear number 1, but since it was unavailable, he opted for number 2. Number 1 was special because it was the number his father wore during his basketball career.

Isaiah Briscoe Isaiah Briscoe chose number 13 because his birthday is on April 13th. Despite the superstition around the number, he embraced it as his own, turning it into a symbol of personal significance.

Nikola Vucevic Nikola Vucevic selected number 9, a nod to his father’s first basketball number and Michael Jordan’s number during the 1992 Olympics. Vucevic also wore number 5 in college for his sister’s September 5th birthday, demonstrating how his family influences his choices.

Evan Fournier Evan Fournier’s decision to wear number 10 was influenced by NBA player Mike Bibby and legendary French soccer player Zinedine Zidane. Bibby’s clutch performances and Zidane’s World Cup victory in 1998 were pivotal moments for Fournier, who shares Algerian heritage with Zidane

[leilanihours]

LANI'S 1K CELEBRATION MASTERLIST ! ✉️

— a location for all my work posted during this celly

women's college basketball !

# 5 — paige bueckers, the university of connecticut

# THIS IS A TRUTH THAT I CAN'T FIGHT, I LOVE YOU TOO MUCH (wc: 471)

prompt: "come back to bed."

# YOU BE LIKING IT ROUGH, YOUR BODY SOFT AS A FLOWER (wc: 704) *18+

prompt: "you like it when i'm rough?"

# YOU'RE SUCH A DREAM TO ME (wc: 847)

prompt: "i dreamed of you."

# SHE AIN'T NEVER DO THIS BEFORE BUT SHE GOOD AT IT (wc: 359) *18+

prompt: "don't run from it, princess, push back on me."

# SNEAK LINK BUT WE DON'T TELL IT, KISSING, TOUCHING, BREATHING HEAVY (wc: 660) *18+

prompt: "are you not wearing any underwear?"

# I CAN SEE YOU'RE LONELY DOWN THERE, DON'T YOU KNOW THAT I AM RIGHT HERE? (wc: 715)

prompt: "will you stay the night?"

# YOU DO IT SO LOUD, I BET THE NEIGHBORS KNOW MY NAME (wc: 339) *18+

prompt: "i know for a fact that you can be a hell of a lot louder than that."

# 44 — aubrey griffin, the university of connecticut

# TO LEAVE THE WARMEST BED I'VE EVER KNOWN (wc: 405)

prompt: "come back to bed."

# YOU GOT ME OVERNIGHT, JUST LET ME BE CLOSE TO YOU (wc: 432)

prompt: "you look really good in my shirt."

# 23 — morgan cheli, the university of connecticut

# I DON'T WANNA LOOK AT ANYTHING ELSE NOW THAT I SAW YOU (wc: 613)

prompt: "so...are you just gonna keep staring or are you going to kiss me?"

# LAUGHING 'TILL OUR RIBS GET TOUGH (wc: 603)

prompt: "if you try to tickle me one more time, i swear you will not get another kiss for a week."

# 35 — azzi fudd, the university of connecticut

# TWO HEADLIGHTS SHINE THROUGH A SLEEPLESS NIGHT, AND I WILL GET YOU ALONE (wc: 541)

summary: azzi wants her well-deserved alone time with her girl.

women's national basketball association !

# 1 — nika muhl, the seattle storm

# SHE'S GOT MY ATTENTION, SHE'S CONFIDENT (wc: 812) *18+

prompt: "i like your hand in mine but i think it would look even better if it was wrapped around my throat."

# IT'S CAUSE I LOVE YOU, BABE, IN EVERY KIND OF WAY, JUST A LITTLE TASTE (wc: 470)

prompt: "i brought you dinner."

# THIS LOVE CAME BACK TO ME (wc: 675)

prompt: "i missed you."

# 20 — kate martin, the las vegas aces

# JACKET 'ROUND MY SHOULDERS IS YOURS (wc: 710)

prompt: "here, take my jacket."

# EVERY LOOK, EVERY TOUCH MAKES ME WANNA GIVE YOU MY HEART (wc: 722)

prompt: "i love it when you laugh."

# HOW DO I FEEL YOU ON ME WHEN YOU'RE NOT ON MY SKIN? (wc: 616) *18+

prompt: "fuck, i love the sounds you make."

# I WISH THAT YOU WOULD STAY IN MY MEMORIES (wc: 762)

prompt: "i had finally forgotten about you. i had finally started to live again. and now you decide to come back."

# OCEAN BLUE EYES LOOKING IN MINE (wc: 591)

prompt: "i can't say no to those eyes."

moodboards !

kate martin x surfer!reader

kate martin x singer!reader

[smallcollegebasketball]

Trevor Hudgins Award Watch List of 15 Players Released

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 1, 2024 Media Contact: Matt Ankenbrandt Sports Information Director │ Small College Basketball 616.780.1335 www.smallcollegebasketball.com

2024 Trevor Hudgins Award Top 15 Watch List Released

Kansas City, MO – The National Awards Committee and Small College Basketball are proud to announce the Trevor Hudgins Award Top 15 Watch List for the 2023-24 season. After the announcement of the creation of the award in November, 2023-24 marks the inaugural season for the award. The award will be presented annually to the senior who has had the finest overall career within Small College Basketball. John McCarthy had this to say about the Top 15 Watch List:

"Congratulations to all 15 players on the Trevor Hudgins Award Watch List,” mentioned McCarthy. “This is, obviously, an elite group of players that have had tremendous collegiate careers, entirely at the small college level. Thank you to our National Awards Committee for their insight on many players from throughout the country." Considerations for the Trevor Hudgins Award are overall career statistics and achievements, team achievements, awards, and personal character. The player must have played his entire career at the small college level. This is the highest award given to a four-year (or five-year) player within Small College Basketball. The video of the finalists will be released on Friday April 5, and the award winner will be announced through a video presentation on Monday April 8, at halftime of the NCAA Division I National Championship Game.

The award is named in honor of Northwest Missouri State’s Trevor Hudgins, who had a historic career with the Bearcats. He led the Bearcats to three consecutive NCAA Division II National Championships. During his career, Hudgins started in every game and never missed one. He also never lost an NCAA Tournament game, leading the Bearcats to a remarkable 17-0 record in the NCAA Division II National Tournament. Hudgins was named the NCAA Division II Player of the Year in back-to-back seasons in 2021 and 2022. He holds both the NWMSU scoring and assists records and finished his career with 2,829 points, which ranks first all time in the 110 year history of the MIAA.

The Trevor Hudgins Award is sponsored by Northwest Missouri State University, Northwest Missouri State Alumni Association, the Scribner Family Foundation Fund, Windmill Benefits and the Kansas State Credit Union.

The Small College Basketball National Awards Committee consists of the following coaches: Gary Stewart – Stevenson(Md.), Chris Briggs - Georgetown (Ky.), Bill Dreikosen - Rocky Mountain (Mont.), Mark Berokoff –Oklahoma City, Mike Donnelly – Florida Southern, Sam Hargraves – Olivet (Mich.), Richard Westerlund – Northwestern (OH), Chase Tiechmann – Florida College, Aaron Siebenthall – Ottawa (Kan.), Mark Vanderslice – USC – Aiken, Matt O’Brien – Southwestern (KS), Chris Wright – Langston (OK), Ben Thompson – Emory & Henry, Justin Leslie – Midwestern State, Raul Placeres – Maryville College (TN), Chris Martin – Loras (IA), John Lamanna – Whitman (WA), Brian Miller – MSOE, Justin Downer – Point Loma Nazarene.

For more information on the Trevor Hudgins Award or Small College Basketball, please head to smallcollegebasketball.com.

2023-24 Trevor Hudgins Award Top 15 Watch List

Drew Blair MN-Duluth Anthony Brown MidAmerica Nazarene Daniel Cook St. John Fisher Tyler Dearman Guilford Issac Fink Augustana (SD) Jake Hilmer Upper Iowa Jeff Hunter Keene State Zach Laput Bentley KJ Jones Emmanuel (GA) Josiah Johnson Mary Hardin-Baylor Elijah Malone Grace Christian Parker Mount Union Ethan Porterfield IUP Tyler Schmidt Olivet Nazarene Jeremiah Sparks Oswego State

[lboogie1906]

Shaw University is a private liberal arts HBCU in Raleigh. Founded on December 1, 1865, it is the second oldest HBCU in the South, after Clark Atlanta University. It has been called the "mother of African-American colleges in North Carolina" as the founding presidents of North Carolina Central University, Elizabeth City State University, and Fayetteville State University are all Shaw alumni. The founder of Livingstone College studied at Shaw before transferring to Lincoln University. What became NCATSU was located on Shaw's campus during its first year. Shaw boasts many “firsts”: the first college in the nation to offer a four-year medical program, the first historically HBCU in the nation to open its doors to women, and the first HBCU in North Carolina to be granted an “A” rating by the State Department of Public Instruction. Dr. Paulette Dillard serves as the University's 18th President. It is affiliated with the General Baptist State Convention of North Carolina and is a member of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. It was a co-founding member of the NCAA Division II's CIAA Conference, the oldest African American athletic association. The university has won CIAA championships in Football, Basketball (women's and men's), Tennis (women's and men's), and volleyball. The school was founded by the American Baptist Home Mission Society. Henry Martin Tupper and his Bible study students constructed a two-story church, with one story for the church, and one for the Raleigh Institute, where he taught freedmen. By 1915, supported by the American Baptist Home Mission, the school had 291 students, evenly divided between men and women. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence #hbcu https://www.instagram.com/p/Cln5w6xrKyW/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[wikiuntamed]

On this day in Wikipedia: Tuesday, 30th January

Welcome, dobrodošli, karibu, bienvenido 🤗 What does @Wikipedia say about 30th January through the years 🏛️📜🗓️?

30th January 2023 🗓️ : Death - Bobby Beathard Bobby Beathard, American Pro Football Hall of Fame executive (b. 1937) "Robert King Beathard Jr. ( BETH-ərd; January 24, 1937 – January 30, 2023) was an American professional football executive who was a general manager for the Washington Redskins and San Diego Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). Over the course of his 38 years in the NFL, his teams competed..."

Image licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0? by Keith Allison from Hanover, MD, USA

30th January 2019 🗓️ : Death - Dick Miller Dick Miller, American actor (b. 1928) "Richard Miller (December 25, 1928 – January 30, 2019) was an American character actor who appeared in more than 180 films, including many produced by Roger Corman. He later appeared in the films of directors who began their careers with Corman, including Joe Dante, James Cameron, and Martin..."

Image licensed under CC BY 2.0? by Rob DiCaterino

30th January 2014 🗓️ : Death - Greater (flamingo) Greater, oldest known greater flamingo and Feast Festival 2021 mascot (h. c.1919–1933) "Greater, also known as Flamingo One and Flamingo 1 (died January 30, 2014), was the world's oldest greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), residing at the Adelaide Zoo in Adelaide, Australia. It was at least 83 years old, having arrived at the zoo from either Cairo or Hamburg (records are unclear)..."

Image licensed under CC BY 2.0? by Les Haines

30th January 1974 🗓️ : Event - Pan Am Flight 806 Pan Am Flight 806 crashes near Pago Pago International Airport in American Samoa, killing 97. "Pan Am Flight 806 was an international scheduled flight from Auckland, New Zealand, to Los Angeles, California, with intermediate stops at Pago Pago, American Samoa and Honolulu, Hawaii. On January 30, 1974, the Boeing 707 Clipper Radiant crashed on approach to Pago Pago International Airport,..."

Image licensed under GFDL 1.2? by Mike Freer

30th January 1924 🗓️ : Birth - Ernie Calverley Ernie Calverley, American basketball player and coach (d. 2003) "Ernest A. Calverley (January 30, 1924 – October 20, 2003) was an American professional basketball player. He was an All-American while playing for the University of Rhode Island. He played professionally with the Providence Steamrollers of the Basketball Association of America for three seasons from..."

Image by Bowman Gum

30th January 1822 🗓️ : Birth - Franz Ritter von Hauer Franz Ritter von Hauer, Austrian geologist and curator (d. 1899) "Franz Ritter von Hauer, or Franz von Hauer (30 January 1822 – 20 March 1899) was an Austrian geologist...."

Image by Josef Löwy

30th January 🗓️ : Holiday - Day of Azerbaijani customs (Azerbaijan) "There are several public holidays in Azerbaijan. Public holidays were regulated in the constitution of the Azerbaijan SSR for the first time on 19 May 1921. They are now regulated by the Constitution of Azerbaijan. ..."

Image by Azim Azimzade (1880-1943)

[clifton60]

Dr Cliff Burt and Friends Sports Talk Show

[vergilsguccibelt]

15 q’s 15 frensZ

tagged by @pierochan

1. are u named after anybody?

Yes, after my father Martin. However, everyone calls Guero.

2. when was the last time you cried?

The last time I cried was when I cut onions.

3. do you have kids?

Yes, his name is Julian. He is five years old.

4. what sports do u play/have u played?

I played soccer as a child and as an adult. I have also played basketball recreationally and baseball, football, handball, and volleyball. l enjoy swimming and biking now as I have grown older and want to preserve my knees.

5. do u use sarcasm?

Yes, but only to people who deserve that side of me.

6. what is the first thing u notice about ppl?

The first thing I notice is people's eyes. I gauge how comfortable they are with eye contact and pay attention to their body language. After that, I pay attention to their ego and see if they have empathy. I experienced my ego death early on in life and meditated through vipassana. I like to associate with people who are kind and stay far away from people attached to materialism.

7. what’s ur eye color?

Hazel Brown and Green

8. scary movies or happy endings?

I enjoy horror films and happy endings, and not in that order. Nothing like a little blood before ecstasy.

9. any talents?

I'm a writer, poet, and music producer.

10. where were u born?

Uruapan, Michoacan

11. what are your hobbies?

I admire all the arts. I'd rather spend time with literature, art, and music than be around people. However, I do enjoy people-watching. I can converse with others, but I find plants a better company. They are good listeners!

12. do u have any pets?

I have three dogs and a cat. I love all types of animals and insects.

13. how tall are u?

5ft7

14. fav subject in school?

English, history, and art!

15. dream job?

Working for a non-profit where I make a difference and don't feel like a cog in the machine making the rich richer while I get poorer.

tagged by @opiazapine