Guest Writer: (Adam) Pensack Sports Management Group

Justin Love asked me to be a guest contributor for his blog so here are some thoughts about being an agent.

Being an agent can be a lot of fun but it certainly isn't always just fun and games like it's portrayed to be on TV and in movies. I love what I do so working around the clock doesn't bother me, but most people simply don't last in this business because of the hours that are required and the challenges that agents face. 

Competition is fierce. If you don't like to compete, this isn't the profession for you. I love to compete so the competition is enjoyable for me and is one of the reasons I like what I do so much. In a lot of ways this affinity for competition and winning is the same mentality that drives successful players, so perhaps it is no surprise that this is the same mentality that can help an agent succeed and thrive. Creative thinking is rewarded in this business and I am always trying to think of creative ways to more effectively market our clients. Whether it's through video marketing, statistical analysis, or good old fashioned hard work making hundreds of phone calls, we will do whatever it takes to do the best job possible.

At the end of the day, this business isn't all that different from any other, though. If you want to be the best, you have to outwork everyone else. The same principles required to be the best player you can be also apply to the agent business. Recruiting harder, marketing players more creatively, and just being more persistent and diligent than the competition will go a long way in this business. And just like any other business there are highs and lows throughout the course of every day. We may get great news for one of our clients in the morning and then bad news for another client in the afternoon. As an agent, I have to keep a level head and realize that the good times are never as good as they seem and the bad times are never as bad as they seem. Reality for each and every client and for my business is always somewhere in the middle.

Hopefully this gives you a small glimpse into what it takes to be an agent. I was born to do this, and I wouldn't trade my profession for any other in the world.

 

Sidenote:  In order to be successful professional athlete, you need to have the right people in your corner pushing you.  I never looked at my agent as a 24/7 concierge. Yes I did ask one time to hook me up with a '67 Mustang, but when I saw the price tag my focus turned to making the money before I spent it!  My agent is my business partner, and I lean heavily on him to make the best decisions for my career.  Things can go sour in a hurry!  We are a team and work together towards a common goal, which is my success. However, my agent's friendship is worth more to me than any successful contract I have signed.  I respect my agent because he tells me what I need to hear, the good news and the bad news and not just what I want to hear.  Trust me when I say some agents can ruin a professional player's career.  I trust my agency because long term goals are more important than small minded thoughts of just tomorrow. 

 

Adam Pensack
Pensack Sports Management Group

415-529-2981 Office
415-572-8648 Cell

adam@pensacksports.com
www.pensacksports.com
Follow us on Twitter @PensackSports

Dynasty?

 The new rumor is that the Big Three of Miami (Lebron James, Chris Bosh and D Wade), will all opt out of their contracts and take pay cuts.  Why you ask?  It's because they want to add another player and become the first team with a Big Four!  That's right, they will all take a pay cut to add superstar Carmelo Anthony.  They weren't lying when they told the fans of Miami that they would win 8 championships.

 When I first heard the rumor I had to give it to these guys.  They make most of their money with endorsement deals anyway, especially Lebron and his team of marketers.  They are more than superstars, they all are a brand name (except for Chris Bosh).  What Bosh loses in money and stats, he makes up with how much fun he has.  Seriously, his photobombs wouldn't have the same effect if he played for the Lakers.  Lebron is the face of Nike and Samsung to list a few, and D Wade is the face of Li Ning.  Bosh is the face of photobombs, but he doesn't get paid for that!

 These players have changed the game.  Most athletes are known for being greedy, and that is true.  It's just that with these players, hold your breath, it's not about the money.  They are greedy with Championships!  Isn't this what you always wanted your favorite team to do?  Load up on the best talent and salary cap be damned.  Here you have some unselfish superstars, and this team will be the envy of every city other than Miami.  There is no way any other players will follow this trend, especially players in their prime.

They now have a Team USA roster.  It doesn't matter who else is on the team.  I hope Mario Chalmers is gone because he doesn't add anything to the team, but I will save that rant for another day. This team will quite possibly challenge the Chicago Bulls 95-96 season record of 72-10.  I say challenge because everything is still hypothetical.

 The only question is does the Heat really want "bad shots Melo"?  Will Melo play defense?  Melo just told Phil Jackson that he will change his game in order to win more games.  This could just be lip service, and it could just be Melo saying all the right things to have a say in Knicks moves.  The one peer that Melo would listen to is Lebron.  Melo has always wanted to be mentioned as one of the top players of the league, but he will never reach Lebron's level. With the Heat he doesn't have to do everything by himself.  Playing with Lebron, he will still get shots.  Unlike most superstars, Lebron passes the ball (some times too much).

 If the Clippers are worth 2 Billion, how much would the Heat be worth with Carmelo?!  Not sure that's how you judge a teams net worth anyway. I don't think Micky Arison will sell his team any time soon. What the Miami Heat will have is a dynasty, that's for sure.  For once it's not news about athletes making the almighty dollar, it's about legacy.  And the person who will benefit the most from this scenario is Lebron and his legacy.

Guest Writer: James "Yoga" Hughes

 I want to start this thing off by introducing myself.  My name is James Hughes and I just recently finished my 7^th season as a pro.  I’ve played in Poland, Turkey, Israel, Puerto Rico (well, I was paid but didn’t actually play…nor was I on the roster. Which, by the way, was by far the EASIEST money I’ve ever made), Holland (Netherlands), Ukraine, Czech Republic, Sweden, Slovakia and Japan.  Just a quick FYI, I’ve played in those countries in that exact order.  Now, everyone knows (well, they think they know) about the glitz and glamour that comes with being an overseas basketball player.  We get to see the world, make some money, and just “live the life.”

            Don’t get me wrong I love what I do.  If I didn’t I would’ve quit back in October of ’07, my first year out, but I digress. During this rant I’m going to touch on some of the struggles we endure overseas.  Obviously they’ll be personal to me, but I know a few “hoopers” will understand where I’m coming from.  Before I dive in, I want to give a shout out to J. Love for giving me the opportunity to share with a larger audience.  I’m pretty sure my family is tired of hearing my stories.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the food in these countries.  Now me being a picky eater my first question to myself is always, ‘what am I gonna eat over there?’  When I first made the trek over even my aunt was like, “awww baby, I was worried about what you were gonna eat over there.”  Now I’m a lean, slim (just don’t call me skinny) guy, and I’m very, VERY picky.  Just put it like this… I can write a whole blog on my pickiness, but for times sake I’ll leave it at I’m very picky.  Of all the countries I’ve played in Turkey, Czech and Israel had the best food. Japan and Poland bring up the rear and the rest of the countries were like, whatever.  As a matter of fact, I struggled this past season in Japan with the food.

              One thing I never have a problem with is my snacks, EXECPT while I was in Japan. My go-to snacks are: Pringles, Snickers, Haribo gummy bears, and apple juice. Now, I’m a meat and potatoes kind of guy, Midwest to the core. Majority of the countries I’ve been to have fish as a main staple.  But some of this stuff I’ve seen and had…MAN! For instance, the red cabbage crap in pretty much every country I’ve played in, or the pig heads for sale at the markets in Poland. Like right there, a big ol’ boar’s head ready to be bought and eaten.  Speaking of Poland, it reminds of what this Polish agent said to me after I requested only fries and chicken breast for all team dinners.  “James, why don’t you eat Polish food?  It’s good.”  Now mind you I was 23 and cocky and was like, “my mom and granny can’t make me eat what I don’t want.  You really think YOU can?!?!?”  Needless to say, I can say chicken and potatoes in about 9 or so languages.  Oh and while we’re on the topic of chicken, when I was in Ukraine they used to use this egg batter or something and I had to dissect my chicken before eating it. After a few months my common sense kicked in and I just requested my chicken without it.    I know I didn’t give many examples of the type of food because I don’t fool with it.  If I don’t know it I won’t eat it, and that was pretty much my mindset in Japan.

Now this next thing is a bit more serious. Let’s talk about the hassles we may or may not have with the teams.  Which include, but not limited to:  late money, threatened to be sent home, terrible working facilities, terrible living conditions, and just all around messed up attitudes.  I remember the first time my money was late. We were in the midst of a winning streak, a couple months after the coach KILLED me in film session.  I remember my numbers were mediocre; 12pts on 4 shots, 8rebs and 4blks.  We didn’t have a decent point guard and were looking to replace the one we had.  But as all Americans know, the finger pointing started because we lost to a team we “should’ve” beaten and I was the oldest American and second oldest on the team.  Anyway, I took the criticism like a pro. At the time I was 28 so I was seasoned by then.  We changed pg’s, went on a winning streak and now my money was late. So I casually strolled into coach’s office with my gear on and said, “Coach, I want to practice, but I haven’t been paid, so I’m gonna lift weights today.”  “Ok James I understand” is what he said to me.  5 minutes later the GM came to the gym and explained the situation.  And yes, I practiced. 

  You see, you regular Joes don’t really have to go through this.  You lose a game or they get mad at you and they want to withhold your money.  They dangle it in front of you like a toy as if this isn’t our livelihood. Playing with my cheese, one can only remain professional for so long. Did I mention the threats of being sent home? Happened to me twice in one season (but I stayed, didn’t I J. Love??).  Every now and then these teams think they can bully us when they get mad and think we’re just gonna roll over.  This right here separates the boys from the men.  Thousands of miles away from home and being punked, you either strap up or fold.  Now I know some guys who’ll cuss everyone out. But I’m more of the mellow type and just won’t do something, or do a little Denzel. Oh and last but not least, there are times that you have to wait weeks after the season to get your money. And the team knows damn well they owe you AND how much.  But I really don’t mind the after season wait...lets me get a little traveling in.

See back at home y’all have workman’s comp, OSHA, and some other crap I don’t remember and don’t care to Google.  What we have are cold gyms, (because teams are too cheap to turn the heat on or just flat out don’t have it), uneven floors, showers with no hot water, leaks in the roof, bats and birds flying in during practice, gyms with ZERO air conditioner, sewer smells, and tiny locker rooms.  Let’s not forget raggedy trains\bus trips for 17hrs, small hotel beds, small hotel rooms that are shared with another dude (except for in Japan we were solo in the rooms), and a bunch of other things that you have to deal with whereas back home you wouldn’t have to.  You may be going through one or more of these situations and then the team gets mad at you for losing in the playoffs to the team that would be the champs and was pretty much known they were gonna be the champs. And they want to fine 50%, but it gets reduced to 30% because the lady who handles the money felt sorry.  She felt sorry because it was money that was owed to us. There is no performance clause stating if we lose we get fined in the contracts. And yes I experienced all of these situations.  Like they say, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Well to hell with that… I like to say I’m hardened and seasoned which is my way of basically saying the same thing.

There’s soooo much I can touch on, good and bad. And as you the reader can see, I’m very long winded.  Try having a conversation with me and I’ll talk your head off.  You get lonely being in these countries. There are times you might go a day without speaking a word.  But that’s another story for another time and if I can come back you better believe I’ll share it with you all.  But, as I said before, I LOVE what I do. Even with all the BS, I love it.  It may seem like I was complaining and yes I was...but I wouldn’t have it any other way.  So with all this being said I’ll bid you adieu and until next time, much love from the Czech Republic.  Yeah, that’s how I spend my summers, “European nights” thanks to this game and the opportunities these teams have afforded me.

Thanks for reading

Jimbo

KRAY+ KARATE= K-R-A-Y-A-T-E

Mind Games

 Lebron James is the best player on the planet. What the casual fan doesn't realize is that for all of his physical abilities, basketball is just as much a mental sport. Shaquille O'Neal was the most dominating big man ever in the NBA. He is sixth all time scorer in the NBA with 28,596 points in his career.  It's too bad he shot 52% from the free throw line throughout his career. He couldn't make free throws, and it was all mental. If he shot just 80 percent from the free throw line he would have moved to fourth all time scorer in the league behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Karl Malone and Michael Jordan.  Free throws were a mental part of the game he couldn't overcome.

 How many times have we seen fans yelling obscenities or making unflattering gestures at the visiting team?  Fans are basically the 6th man of the home team, and they do a great job of getting into a player's head.  The best players can tune out even the loudest fan, but for a player that is struggling it's easier said than done.

 Flopping or acting like you were fouled is another mind game in basketball. The purpose of this act is to make the other player lose his cool or focus. Mo Williams of Portland Trailblazers even fabricated a feud with rookie player Troy Daniels of the Houston Rockets as a mind game tactic because Daniels was out-playing him. Kobe Bryant is the Black Mamba because when other players try to stop him or talk trash, he raises his level of play. It's a challenge, and he takes it personally. It's also a flaw because he stops playing a team game, and it turns into one on one...mano y mano. Reggie Miller would often have coaches criticize him in warmups, so when the game started he was pissed off and ready to play.

 Lebron James and other star players do all kinds of things to improve their game.  He shoots thousands of jump shots and spends hours in the weight room with trainers. You can have the will and determination to be the best, and your focus can be on winning a third championship. One thing that Lebron can't prepare for is Lance Stephenson blowing in his face!  How do you defend a guy who is virtually unguardable, 6'8, 240 and a power forward with guard skills? What happens when your defender can't guard you...mind games!

 How can you keep your cool when another player is trash talking to you?  Stephenson must be prepared, because he awoke a beast. Right now all eyes will be on Lebron and how he responds. His trash talking will be after the next game and pointing to the score board. That's how you handle trash talkers and mind games. You win and advance to the Championship game.

GHOST Writer: EVO ALMIGHTY IS BACK

I guess Greg Popovich and the San Antonio Spurs DID NOT read my post today.Money is burning, IPA's are flowing and this video is on REPEAT !!!

Guest Writer: EVO ALMIGHTY

EVO Almighty checking in…
I will be blogging every Tuesday and who knows, you might find some
late night RANTS THURS-SUNDAY pop up, depending how slushy I get.
I will be covering topics of sports & sports gambling, drinking,
andJustin Bieber. In that order! 

For my RANT of the day we will be discussing tonight’s Game 4 of the
Western Conference Finals, San Antonio +3 @ OKC. OKC got a HUGE
boost with the return of Serge Ibaka in Game 3. Not only did he fire
up his teammates, he played like he never got injured. 30 mins, 15 pts,
7 reb, 4 blocks and not counting numerous shots he changed
just by his presence.

The change of the lineup with Reggie Jackson starting in place of Sefolosha
provided OKC with another threat out there and they capitalized. San Antonio,
despite struggling on offense and getting pounded on the boards
(out rebounded 36-52) kept in striking distance but just could not get
over the hump. Tony Parker looked lethargic and just was not into the game.
I expect that to change in Game 4.

San Antonio is still up 2-1 in the best of 7 series. I believe all the pressure
is on the Thunder, because they do not want to go back to San Antonio
down 3-1. I also see Greg Popovich adjusting to the line up change
Scott Brooks implemented. He’s too good of a coach not to. Getting back to
“Dr. Nasty” Ibaka. He gave it his all in Game 3 and watching him limp
around afterwards was painful. I can only image how much pain he’s in
and with a short turn around maybe coming back playing 30 mins was a
little too much for his calf to handle.

I see the Spurs tightening up their mistakes from Game 3 with better shooting,
limiting their turnovers and keepingthe rebound margin close.
Ibaka’s lift was huge for Game 3, but Game 4 is yet to be determined.
OR Kevin Durant has 80 and Spurs score 79. I can see that too. 

Already locked and loaded with Los Spurs for the series, so to me tonight’s
game is a “free roll” yet a very capable road win.

Taking the +3 with San Antonio and drinking some IPA’s.
If I win I will drink more. If I lose, I will STILL drink more.
It’s only $$$ people. Can’t take it with you…

I will be back next Tuesday, hopefully with
something better than my last. 

Steve Carell got NOTHING on me !!! 

EVO OUT !!!

Guest Writer: Gary Fitness Tech

Hi, my name is Gary and I'm the co-owner of The Fitness Tech, a personal training gym in San Bruno Ca. 

We specialize in helping people get in great shape and feel great about themselves too! 

You can check out our Facebook page for some pics of our members who made some great transformations! 

https://www.facebook.com/TheFitnessTech

When we ask new members what are their fitness goals most people say something like........

"I want to get fit"

"I want to lose weight"

"I want to get more toned"

"I want to feel better"

Those are good starting points, but they're too general. Specific goals have a more powerful impact in your mind.

A vague goal is like getting in your car and driving "north." 

You may be headed in the general direction, but without a specific destination, you will probably get lost and have to turn back.

There's no way I could've walked on my college basketball team let alone start my own business if I didn't set specific goals. 

The key is to narrow it down and get very specific. You can't achieve any goal if you don't have the right mindset and know exactly what you want to accomplish.

Your Goal Setting Plan

Here's 5 tips to help you make your goals become a reality this year and beyond! Print this out go through it, and apply it for ANY goal that you want to achieve.

1. Set Specific Goals 

The more specific your goal is, the easier it is to get from point A to point B. If you put the San Mateo County (or any county) into your GPS, it can take you to many different places on the peninsula.

But, if you type in the exact city and address, then it will take you exactly there! Do the same for your goals! 

2. Set Measurable Goals

Once you set a specific goal (ex. - I want to lose 20 pds by July 1st), you must have a way to measure your progress to keep you motivated. The mirror is a great tool as is weekly or bi-weekly photos.

Measuring inches on your waist or going by how your clothes fit are good too. The scale can be an option if, and only if you do it every couple weeks. 

Weighing yourself everyday can get discouraging and isn't the best indicator for body fat loss.

3. Set BIG Goals

Many times people shortchange themselves and say things like, "I could never look like that" "I can't do that" or "I'm too old." 

Most people get scared when setting goals and only set the bar high enough to what they think they can achieve and not what they really want.

This is the mistake because small goals are not motivating, BIG goals are! Actually, a meaningful goal SHOULD scare you a little bit and give you those butterflies in your stomach!! 

Stepping out of your comfort zone is where you will find success!

4. Write Down and Read Your Long Term and Short Term Goals

Your goals list should include long term goals (your "ultimate" body), one year goals, monthly goals, weekly goals (fitness test/measurements/photos, etc), and daily goals (habits/behaviors to work on).

Keep this list with you and/or post it on your fridge/bathroom mirror and read through them twice a day (morning and before going to bed). 

Just like working out your muscles, repetition and consistency is a great way to strengthen your mind!!

5. Figure Out The Emotional Reasons WHY You Want To Achieve Your Goals

This one's the KEY to sticking with and achieving your goals. Uncovering the reasons you want to achieve something adds emotion to it.

The more emotions you stir up (good and bad), the more motivated you'll be to keep pushing even on the days you don't feel like coming to the gym or feel stressed out, sad, etc.....

Here's some questions you can ask yourself when setting your big goals:

- Why is achieving this goal important to you?

- What impact will achieving your goal have on your life?

- How will you be different once you achieve this goal?

- How will you feel if you don't achieve your goal?

Answering these questions will help you discover the driving force behind your goals. Again, if you can't answer these then you need bigger more scarier goals! 

Once you figure out your WHY, you will figure out the HOW! 

****Bonus Tip****

Make It Public 

Letting other people (family, friends, co-workers) know your goals puts some "pressure" on you, keeps you accountable.

There's something about putting yourself out there that helps you reach your goals. There will be people who will support you and some that will doubt you. Use both as motivation on those days you don't feel like doing anything.  

No matter what your goal in life is, if you take this plan seriously and really apply these strategies, you'll already be further ahead than you've ever been.

Good luck on your fitness journey! 

Gary

http://www.thefitnesstech.com 

http://www.yelp.com/biz/the-fitness-tech-san-bruno

Was it the pink hair?

Rory McLlroy has just won the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, England. He recently lost his fiancé Caroline Wozniacki. She didn't die but, they did split. Life is always a game of one step forward and two steps back. Was it her pink hair that just set him off? I mean he was the one who broke it off right? Could he not concentrate on golf anymore? Was she pestering him with questions about the wedding like so many women do after getting engaged ? Was she inconsiderate about his career? Was she too in love? Did he want his freedom back? Was he feeling claustrophobic, after all she was willing to be his caddie for the Master's. As a person on the outside looking in. Let's forget the reasons for ditching Woz for a second.  Just wondering... if she made herself pink all over her body if you know what I mean! Normally, guys get married and then later realize they made a mistake. Makes me scratch my head a little bit about the situation. I mean it's not often guys call off getting married unless there was a hang up on the...PRENUP! See where I'm going, yep I went there!   Some validation to the story when after he announces the break up he follows it up with a victory. Gives a small sliver of truth to the public story but, truth is Rory McIlroy doesn't have to win a golfing tournament for the rest of his life! Initial reports of his NIKE contract said it was a $250 million contract over 10 years. More recent reports say it's a more reasonable five-year, $20 million a year deal. And even if the payday is less than what is rumored, it still puts to shame the $40 million that Nike paid Tiger Woods over his first five years on the tour, and makes Rory one of the highest-paid people in sports. So, Ms. Woz just how much money did you ask for! I think I would dye my hair pink too after seeing those dollar signs. Winner winner chicken dinner. Did somebody say dollar signs? 
 Don't get me wrong. Caroline has her own money. Wozniacki is the highest-paid tennis player in the world right now, pulling in an astonishing $58 million between April 2013-April 2014 alone! She has a $30 million lead over her closest competition. The Danish player has an estimated net worth of $185 million! She owes her fortune to smart stock investments, substantial property holdings, lucrative endorsement deals with CoverGirl cosmetics. She also owns several restaurants (the "Fat Wozniacki Burger" chain) in Copenhagen, a Football Team (the "Odense Angels"), has launched her own brand of Vodka (Pure Wonderwozniacki-Denmark), and is tackling the juniors market with a top-selling perfume (With Love from Caroline) and a fashion line called "Caroline Wozniacki Seduction". 
Whoa, what the hell is Rory Mac thinking! Woz is worth $185 million...please tell me Rory that you wanted some money from HER if you got divorced! Rory, whatever problem you had, solve them right now. If you think she is a bridezillla just look at your bank account statements and then pan the camera at HER account statements. Ah, her 60 million a year kind of beats your 25 million a year. Rory can take two steps backwards in golf as long as he takes one step forward in his relationship with the Woz. Pink hair or not!

Giants win the pennant?

The SF Giants are now 31-18 and are the best team record wise in the National League. After winning the World Series in 2010 and 2012 recently, history shows 2014 might be their year also. They have pitching and for the first time they have a team that hits dingers! I can cry about all the solo home runs but it beats 2010. They had to hit four singles just to score a run...torture!  Another  difference is in the previous championship runs was the Giants finished as Wild Card teams. Being division champs doesn't guarantee a parade. One thing that is for certain is the Giants are the best team that gets no coverage from the media. The best team no one talks about. Giants still aren't respected after the past two championship runs and experts still refer to their rings as luck. This season there is a different feeling about the Giants.
With star pitchers going down...amazing that the player who throws the most sliders in the game Sergio Romo still has an elbow! Giants teams have always been a team built on pitching. It's not surprising that at the start of free agency they targeted Tim Hudson. He was old(38) and just had his ankle surgically repaired. Having just gone through Buster Posey's ankle issues they knew Hudson would be ok and his sinker would be perfect for AT&T Park. Hudson completes the starting rotation with Cain, Bumgarner, Lincecum, and Vogelsong. Truth is the Giants bullpen are the real heroes of the team. They have he second most wins(13), Third in majors in era(2.26), first in saves(19), and most importantly first in walks allowed(41). Romo closes the door except in Coors field where that slider doesn't slide!
 The luck so far has been the Giants are winning without they're key hitters...hitting! Pablo Sandoval is batting .227 with 6 home runs. Buster Posey is batting .265 with 7 home runs. Hunter Pence is batting .285 with only 5 home runs. How is this team winning? The only stat of note is Giants are first in 2 out base hits with runners in scoring position. The non stat reasoning is you can't buy chemistry... Dodgers! The Giants never won with Bonds and Kent...just saying. Giants do have some issues with Brandon Belt and Marco Scutaro out with injuries. As always the Giants love bargins. While I was screaming at the Giants to sign Shin-Soo Choo...they pick up Tyler Colvin? Granted he was a first round pick. He was unwanted and picked up off the scrap heap. When Scutaro, 38 years old wasn't ready for spring training they were lucky to have a player like Stephen Drew still available  having just winning the World Series with Boston. Yet they signed Brandon Hicks? Yes, he is only batting .195 but, he has 8 dingers and can actually take a step to the left for a ground ball which couldn't be said for Scutaro even when he was healthy! The one guy I was happy they signed was Michael Morse. My man has light tower power. Nicknamed the beast for a reason and works out with Frank Gore in the off season. My only complaint is he plays left field instead of first base. To be honest he hasn't looked so bad in left. He leads the team with 10 dingers.
 Do the Giants have what it takes to win the pennant? Staring pitching...check. Bullpen...check. Dingers...check. Hall a fame manager...check. It will be interesting to see what they do at the trade deadline. I'm not so sure who will be available but, right now do the Giants need anything? Yes, you can always improve your team. I would love to trade for Jeff Samardzija from the Chicago Cubs. There top prospect Kyle Crick would definitely be needed to be included in that trade to get done. All the fuss about losing Zack Wheeler in Carlos Beltran trade. Wheeler is 1-5 and has 4.31 era right now. Giants have 14th pick in this years draft they can add a quality arm back in their farm system in June.
 Yes, the Giants will win the pennant...Samardzija will help them win another World's Series!

Sterling,Cuban, and Sam

 One thing that the Donald Sterling mess has done is that no one wants to be known as being a racist. Truth of the matter is that isn't everyone a racist? No one has perfect ideals. The problem isn't having insecure views...it's being public about your views that is the true problem. Mark Cuban is a popular person. He can sway public perception. Use your voice in a positive way. I understand the point he was trying to make but, the rest of america will not. Your wrong if you think Donald Sterling doesn't have some supports in the South! My point is Cuban should use his voice on Real issues. Social media has made the world conscience of he said, she said. 15 minutes of fame is real. It reminds me of fight club. Rule number one...don't talk about fight club. Having a strong opinion...don't talk about your views outside of your inter circle. The crazy thing is it's not against the law to be ignorant. It just gives other people a bad perception about you. Mark Cuban said," If I see a black kid with a hoodie on I cross the street...If I see a white guy with tattoos everywhere and a bald head, I will go back across the street". We live in a sensitive world. I'm Africian-American and I don't have a problem with what he said. It's insensitive with what just happen with Trayvon Martin. No doubt. If there was a group of Africian-Americans walking down the street I wouldn't cross the street but, I'm aware that there could be a situation. If I'm minding my own business and a white guy with tattoos is in front of me I'm conscience that a confrontation could take place and go down. In america you must be prepared for anything. It's what they call being "street" smart. Problem with Mark Cuban is he admitted his racial insecurities. That is a conversation for his inter circle of friends. Not for the public of Nashville.
I grew up in San Francisco. Some would say it's the homosexual capital of the world. I'm all in on Michael Sam being an openly gay player. Koutos to him. It almost ended his pro career before it even started and he took that chance. I'm happy that he was comfortable enough in his own skin to be himself. Honestly, I'm interested in him making a goal line stand...sacking Colin Kappernick. That's the news about him I want to hear. I hope that football comes first for him and not who he will be dating or linked too in the future. I'm aware that he is "openly gay", at the same time it makes me nervous about the open part. I just don't think I'm ready for everything an "openly gay" person does if that makes sense. There is some unknown factors that makes everyone nervous. I'm a professional basketball player and I say all the time I have straight players who look at my package in the shower and I don't feel uncomfortable. Athletes are creatures of habit. I have been looked at naked so many times that if a guy looks at me it doesn't phase me. I had a gay teammate look at me I would care less. I'd just say it's apart of the locker room. All I want from him is to have my back on the football field. I just want to count on him when the team needs him. I feel the same way about Michael Sam. That he is homosexual is irrelevant. The team needs him to make plays on the field. Jackie Robinson crossed the race barriers but, he was one hell of a baseball player. For Jackie more people wanted him to fail. With Sam america gives him more support in this day and age. Rookies especially are suppose to be seen not heard. I want Sam's private life to be private. If he makes the St. Louis Rams I want it to be because of what he does on the football field. I don't want Michael Sam TMZ news...I want Michael Sam NFL news. I'm rooting for him as number 96.

Will KD ever win a championship

2016...that is when KD is a free agent. Hasn't he said he is tired of being second? Right now he isn't close to being second! It has to be on his mind right now being down 0-2 if he can win a championship with OKC. The MVP has to be thinking what else can he do? Nothing! Spurs are well on their way to winning a championship this season. The wild wild western conference has plenty of contenders in KD's way in the next couple of years. Spurs, Clippers, Warriors, Rockets and even Lakers will get better soon. Has OKC's window closed? Oklahoma sure isn't a destination for top free agents even when they have a chance to play with KD. Durant's best hope to win a championship might be to leave as a free agent and join a contender. Lebron didn't try to fight his legacy. Good players win MVP's. Great players win rings. KD is no exception to the rule. To win a championship he must leave as a free agent. He will have his choice of options that's for sure. Dwight Howard played the free agent roulette and isn't any closer to winning a championship...especially with a side kick who doesn't play defense in Hardin. Does it take a big three to win championship? Do you need a bonafide great coach? Michael Jordan days are over. Just because you are the best player in the league it doesn't guarantee you that you will win a championship. There is no formula but, for sure one person can't do it alone or two really good players. I praise OKC management for their savvy thinking. Always preparing for the future like no other because after all they have too. Being a small market team you have to pinch pennies and rub two nickels together. I dare say now is the time to put all of their chips in. They have to know that their window is closing and only have two more years of  Kevin Durant left. Can you imagine a trio of Westbrook, Durant, and Kevin Love! 3 players still in their primes and hungry to win a championship. OKC does have some ammo to make the trade possible. They have two first round picks in this draft that they can surrender in a trade. They also have a future star in Reggie Jackson who they can give up in a trade also. Would two first round picks in this draft, a future first round pick in next years draft, and Reggie Jackson get the trade done? I think it should. If I was KD I would let management know today to get this trade finalized. Something might also have to be done with Kendrick Perkins and his outrageous contract. They would be well over the salary cap with Love on board. If KD is going to win a championship in OKC, salary cap be damned! Yes, Minnesota does have Ricky Rubio so do they need Jackson? Jackson's biggest games have been when he was in the game along side Westbrook. Small ball is returning to NBA.

NBA Mock Draft 1.0

1. Cleveland Cavs.
 May be since Tim Duncan there is no point in drafting a center number 1. No matter how badly you need one big guys just aren't the way to go here...they bust! Fastest way to rebuild is too have a dynamic backcourt. Waiters? Bennett anyone? With the uncertainty of Uncle Drew staying or leaving the Cavs can't make a mistake with this pick. Pressure will be on management to be safe in this draft.
Got to draft A. Wiggins

2. Milwaukee Bucks.
 Bucks need a whole lot! New ownership now in order(does it matter?)...best player available will be the way to go. NBA is a guards league. Already with the greek freak on board Giannis Antetokounmpo, it would be great to pair him with another foreign player. High risk, high reward.
Got to draft Dante Exum

3. Philadephia 76's.
 Great draft last year getting the rookie of the year Michael Carter-Williams and also Nerlens Noel(lets hope he stayed in shape). It's tough to figure out what position Noel will play next season power forward or center. I really want to put Noah Vonleh here but there is a Duke legend who is still on the board with too much talent too pass on.
Got to draft Jabari Parker

4. Orlando Magic.
 It's tough to gauge what the Magic will do...they need a lot of help! This is a good draft to figure out what direction you are trying to go in. Honestly, with two first round picks they can take some risk here.  This is a deep draft and still a lot of great players still on the board. Makes sense to pair Victor Oladipo with some more talent.
Got to draft Aaron Gordon

5. Utah Jazz.
 First order of business for Jazz is to resign Gordan Hayward. The debate in Jazz war room will be between Vonleh or Embild. With the offensive pick and roll system which suits Trey Burke very well makes sense to draft a pick and pop player which spaces the floor better. Gives your best player Hayward more driving lanes also.
Got to draft Noah Vonleh

6. Boston Celtics.
 In 1978 draft the Celtics took Larry Legend. This player is far from Larry Bird but, Danny Ainge needs a scorer here. I think Jeff Green is a star no one notices. Celtics already have  some nice pieces and they loaded up on power forward/centers in last years draft. Rondo will add 2 more assists to his stats a game with this player.
Got to draft Doug McDermott

7. LA Lakers.
 Lakers brass will be happy for this player to fall this far. He is in discussion as the number one pick but, his injury history will scare a lot of teams away. Back injury and Center doesn't bode well for future success but, with Gasol on the outs Lakers need a big man.
Got to draft Joel Embild

8. Sacramento Kings.
 The Kings could be next years Wizards. They have a lot of talent already on their roster. They just have to put it all together. Rudy Gay takes a lot of shots and Kings need a player who doesn't need the ball and can do all the dirty work. They will be lucky to have this player fall to them here.
Got to draft Julius Randle

9. Charlotte Hornets.
 Al Jefferson earned his big contract and backed it up playing like a beast this season! After making the playoffs they benefit with such a high pick. They need to hit on this pick. Hornets do have two first round picks. They could trade out and move back but, I don't think they will with Jordan pulling strings. Need to get bigger and more physical at the guard position
Got to draft Marcus Smart

10. Philadelphia 76's
 After drafting Parker earlier in the draft. They take the european "Lamar Odom" here. He isn't a sexy pick here but, has upside and talent. Draft is already a success with Parker and that pick will let Saric develop when he is ready and not be rushed.
Got to draft Dario Saric

11. Denver Nuggets.
 No one improved their stock during the NBA combine as much as this player. Didn't play a lot in college. When he did he was a highlight reel. Nuggets are banking on him being a poor man's Russell Westbrook.
Got to draft Zack LaVine

12. Orlando Magic.
 Magic continue the trend of getting more athletic with this pick. Another high upside pick who was often over looked in college. Big game player.
Got to draft James Young

13. Minnesota Timberwolves.
 Why does no one want to stay in Minnesota? With Love out the door Wolves will look to draft the best position four player still on the board. Mitch Mc Gary wouldn't surprise me even though he didn't play this season with back injury. They will go with good track record player here.
Got to draft Adreian Payne

14. Phoenix Suns.
 Suns had a breakout season this year. No way this offensive team will pass on the best shooter in college basketball.
Got to draft Nik Stauskus

15. Atlanta Hawks.
 Really would like to have seen what Hawks would have done in playoffs if Harford wasn't injured. At the same time Mike Scott played great. Milsap is no Lebron and it would be nice to add a scorer to this Hawks team.
Got to draft TJ Warren

16. Chicago Bulls.
 Will Rose ever be the same again...a healthy Rose changes everything about this team. Just to be sure  they will take a point guard here or best guard in general here.
Got to draft Gary Harris

17. Boston Celtics.
 Celtics get bigger with another versatile playmaker. Rondo does have option to leave and Ainge can't be unprepared. This player has a lot of potential but, needs to put it all together.
Got to draft Kyle Anderson

18. Phoenix Suns.
 The second of three first round picks. Suns add to their offensive arsenal. Another player who has some offensive versatility. Didn't play great all the time but, has too much talent to pass on.
Got to draft Rodney Hood

19. Chicago Bulls.
 Playing in the Eastern Conference as a contender you must have athletes. Bulls just couldn't score last season. They get a more athletic Luol Deng here.
Got to draft Cleanthony Early

20. Toronto Raptors.
 Will rapper Drake make this pick? Raptors overachieved last season and should have beaten the Nets. That being said coach Duane Casey needs more defensive minded players on his team. He gets his man here.
Got to draft Jerami Grant

21. OKC Thunder.
 Strange to say that OKC needs more offense. OKC's flaw is their lack of offense off the bench to lead their second unit. A role they are trying to find since Harden's departure. Sefalolosha seems to be in the dog house now also.
Got to draft Glenn Robinson lll

22. Memphis Grizzlies.
 One thing Grizzlies are notorious for doing is drafting point guards. There are a fair share of great point guards still on the board. Conley does a lot for this team and they don't need a replacement but, just another player who can create shots for others.
Got to draft Tyler Ennis

23. Utah Jazz.
 Drafted Vonleh earlier in this mock draft and how perfect to be able to now draft this player. To be able to play with Trey Burke again will be special and no adjustment will be needed.
Got to draft Mitch McGary

24. Charlotte Hornets.
 Jordan does things his way. Hornets still need to improve their guard play. This player put up big numbers in college in a solid conference. A bit of a tweener and that hurts him but, talent is still there and I'm sure he caught the eye of Jordan.
Got to draft DeAndre Kane

25. Houston Rockets.
 Another player in the doghouse is T. Jones. The Rockets lack a power forward. That hurt their run for a championship this season. Especially, Howard loves to get in foul trouble and when he goes out Rockets have trouble rebounding.
Got to draft Patrick Young

26. Miami Heat.
 The Heat already have their stars. Their role players have to play with energy and be tough defensively. Wade's knees don't allow him to play a whole season and they need more out of Chalmer's. They will eye drafting another guard in this draft.
Got to draft Elfrid  Payton

27. Phoenix Suns.
 The third and final first round pick for the Suns. They don't have the roster space so, draft and stash is the way to go. The best European player on the board will be drafted here and left in Europe for more development time.
Got to draft Kristaps Porzingis

28. LA Clippers.
 The Clippers have the most complete roster in the NBA. I know the Spurs would think differently. Point is that they don't need much. They drafted a Tar Heel last season. They can try to get the most out of this player with a ton of potential. Was suppose to be a top 10 pick last season.
Got to draft James McAdoo

29. OKC Thunder.
 Reggie Jackson had a big year. He can leave soon for greener pastures or to be the man with another team. Derek Fisher could also bolt for head coaching gig. OKC always does business with the future in mind. Still they find a good combo guard late in first round.
Got to draft Nick Johnson

  30. San Antonio Spurs.
 Spurs seem to draft point guards and/or European players who show up 5 years laters as GODS. Spurs don't follow consensus and even though they have 3 point guards on their roster they STILL take another one here.
Got to draft Russ Smith