Last post for class... and I guess I'll finish up that NBA thing I started earlier.

Well, to start out, I have two items of good news. The first is that this is the last post I have to do for class. I've liked writing in my blog, but you know how it is when you have to do something versus just wanting to do it on your own time. Deadlines are almost always no fun no matter what the situation. It was still a good thing though, because this probably wouldn't have been too high on my priorities and been neglected in the end.

The other good news (or really GREAT news) is that Angela and I are finally officially done with our long distance relationship. As of today, she came down from Idaho and this time for good. I am so excited to leave the talking on the phone behind. We were together most weekends this semester, but now it will be awesome to have her around everyday. She is a special girl and I am so excited for the next 35 days (and even more stoked of course for the days after that 35).

I'm sure we'll keep a blog after we're married (I really want one now after seeing my sister-in-law's; she does a great job with their blog and does really well with taking pictures in the right moments to document their life), but it probably won't be this same account. So this could be one of my last blog's on this page. Or maybe I'll keep it just to ramble about sports sometimes.

Speaking of that, I introduced the NBA one-on-one tourney and never got to give my predictions. I thought my last one would be an appropriate time for that.

One-on-one tournament rules - They go to 21 by two's and three's with no "make it take it" (not with how good these guys are). They start at the top of the three-point line (NBA). A sideline ref on a volleyball stand calls out-of bounds, traveling, and goal-tending only. Offensive players only get one offensive rebound per possession. Offensive players also call their own fouls and get it back up top, but the opponent can challenge a call and consult a referee if the game is within five points and one player has at least 18 points. Players must win by four points with a cap at 31, but no cap in the final four games. Alright, let's do this...

Round 1

1. Lebron defeats 16. Steve Nash - Yeah, I changed this first round match-up. I decided Ellis didn't deserve to be on here, especially since I don't even think he's the best player on his team anymore (Steph Curry), and they are no where near being a contender for even the playoffs. Plus Nash is an MVP candidate (well no one's really a candidate except LBJ) this year. Other guys who deserve to have their name's mentioned for the tournament after this year are Zach Randolph, David Lee, and Chauncey. Anyway, onto the game; this is no match-up for one-on-one. Lebron gets the closest to a shutout for any game, but Steve pulls off a few crafty shots and a three on him after Lebron's 12-0 start. Final score is 21-7.

2. Kobe defeats 15. Duncan - Some may think Timmy doesn't deserve to even be here, but it's Tim Duncan. He will be a top guy until he's gone. Like his team, you can never just forget about him. In this game, he puts up a valiant effort, but falls short. Kobe wins 23-18 by hitting an unnecessary three to clinch it. This game also featured the most fouls called of any of the games.

3. Durant defeats 14. Roy - I switched this with Wade's game. I don't think Roy deserves to be below some of these other guys, but Durant is definitely the third best player in the league right now. Plus Roy going down at the end of the year allows him to fall a few seeds too. Durant wins pretty easily. He's a little too long for Roy to compete. Final is 21-13.

4. D'wight defeats 13. Amare - Amare puts up a fight with his offensive skills and energy early, but once Howard stops goofing around and plays ball, he proves to be a little too much for Stat. Ending on a 12-4 run, D'wight takes it 22-18.

5. Melo defeats 12. Joe Johnson - No way do I think Melo is a better player than Wade. Wade is my boy! But Melo is a heck of a one-on-one scorer and this helps the second round match-ups all stay the same. This game is a close one with seven of the first nine shots made being three pointers. Then Melo proves to be too much as he makes a bucket on each of his last five possessions, winning 23-18 in the end.

6. D Wade defeats 11. D Rose - I don't think Rose is this high (#11) yet, but he is getting up there and is one of my top five guys I love to watch. This is my favorite game of the first round. It also features the most "gotta-see-that-again" plays. Rose puts up a good fight, but Wade is too strong and too experienced, which helps him beat Rose 24-20.

10. Bosh defeats 7. Dircus - This is my least favorite game to watch. It is also the quickest game of the round due to little defense played. Dirk ends up winning the less defensive effort battle, but loses the game 16-21.

9. D. Will defeats 8. CP3 - This game is extremely exciting. It is the only one to be played to the cap. Chris Paul continually beats Deron off the dribble, and Deron consistently scores on him in the post. Eventually, Deron boldly takes a three for the win when they are tied at 28 and sinks it. The final is 31-28, Deron. Good luck with Lebrun next round . . .

. . . But we'll save that for later. This is too much for one night.

Quick Post

I keep almost forgetting to do these things every week now. Last week, I skipped it so I thought I better say something this week. I said I would finish the NBA one-on-one blog a while ago, but I haven't had the time; I'll get around to it eventually. Wedding plans, finishing up school, and planning for grad school have been what's on my agenda lately. The wedding plans and Angela keep me most busy for sure. This week, I don't think I did a lick of homework. We did wedding things (like get bands--I love hers by the way--and register at target) and visited friends Friday, and then there was conference Saturday and Sunday. It was a great weekend though!

As for sports, I can't believe the final is Butler vs. Duke. Who would've thought a basketball final could be this white? I really want Butler, but I find it very improbable. My prediction is Duke wins by 15-20, but hopefully, it is just a close enough game to be entertaining tomorrow. Also, I want to shout out to my boy, Donovan McNabb. It's been great watching him and cheering for him the past 11 years in Philli, even without the championship. I will definitely miss him and it will take me a little bit to start really wanting Kolb to succeed, but even though I'm disappointed with the Eagles decision now, I can't abandon them. They really need their fans' support now.

Madness Indeed.

I'll have to address the one-on-one tourney next week; I don't got enough time this week. I am with Angela in Rexburg just having one of the best weekends of my life. She is great and we've made some good memories this weekend. I can't wait to spend the first part of my birthday with her tomorrow. She must be really special too, since I have missed most of March Madness since Thursday and haven't really cared a bit. She was amazing though and let me watch the BYU-Kansas State game and even brought me food while I was watching it. What a woman?!

What I have seen and heard of this year's madness has been great. Of course, my bracket is done for, but it is great to see these white nobodies like Cornell, St. Mary's, and Northern Iowa make names for themselves. It has been a crazy tournament and its nice to see the madness back after last year's somewhat boring tournament. You gotta love it... But just not as much as I love Ang I guess!

Tourney and my own NBA 1-on-1 Tourney

Well, the madness is about to begin! What a good time of year. There has already been some great moments in just the conference tournaments; I think it will be a memorable real tourney. I just went down to the Mountain West conference tournament and the Friday night BYU-UNLV game was one of the most exciting games I've ever been to. I am ready for it to begin tomorrow. I'm still unsure with some of my picks, but I'm pretty certain I'm taking the Jayhawks. They've seemed to be the best team all year, and they've got the most experience.

There are a few things that I need to vent about with the seeding though. If Kansas is the number one overall, then why do they seem to have the toughest road. And then Duke, I usually don't believe the Duke conspiracy theories, but they sure do seem to have the easiest road and why do they get to play the play-in winner; I thought that was for the number one overall. Also, I am not happy with BYU getting a 7 seed. I can list at least five teams seeded higher they had a better year than. At least they get to play Florida though and not another big, black, and athletic team like A & M again.

Last of all, this week I heard about a sweet 3 on 3 game planned between Kenny Smith, Hakeem, and Rick Fox vs. Donovan McNabb, TO, and Antonio Gates. But you hear about these events all the time, yet I've never seen one on TV. There was supposed to be Michael Phelps vs Chad Ochocinco in swimming and Rajon Rondo vs Chris Johnson in a race, but I never heard anything more than roomers on either. They should do a lot more of these sorts of things though. And then actually televise them at reasonable times on reasonable networks. I guess there was that Shaq show, but I mean like real legit competitions. Here's a couple I think would be fun to watch.

• Usain Bolt vs a horse in a 200 m race
• Ron Artest vs Stephen Jackson in a UFC match
• Shane Battier vs Grant Hill in a UFC match
• UConn's men's basketball intramural champions vs the women's team
• Shaq vs the oldest former living NBA player who shot over 80% from the free throw line in a free throw contest.
• I've always thought a one-on-one off-season tournament would be awesome too... Take the 16 best players in the league and have them play until there is a champ. Here's who I think the field of 16 should be. (I know they could never get all 16 to commit though, plus there's probably not many teams that would risk injury and let them do it too.)... and next week I'll talk about who wins each. These are the first round games.

--close calls to participate: 20. Danny Granger - would have made it last off-season

19. Paul Pierce - like his team, just getting too old and slow

18. Steve Nash - easily one of the top 16 players but don't know if he could hold his own in 1-on-1

17. Pau Gasol - also probably a top 16 guy but I just don't want to see his ugly game or his ugly face in the summer time

__________________________

1. Lebron vs 16. Monta Ellis (takes Paul, Steve, and Pau's spots because he would be exciting to watch. Gerald Wallace is another guy I considered here, which would make a way better match-up, but sometimes I wonder how good he actually is and how much is just crazy athleticism)

2. Kobe "Bryant, slam dunk giant, outplay the Kob, son don't try it" vs 15. Tim Duncan "He aint frontin', step on the court and he'll show ya somethin' (had to do this match-up because of the old sprite commercial; and a few years ago, Tim would have been a 1 or 2 seed himself)

3. D Wade vs 14. D Rose (Chicago natives)

4. Dwight Howard vs 13. Amare (Battle of the bigmen)

5. Melo vs 12. Joe Johnson (both are over-sized shooting guards)

6. Kevin Durantula vs 11. B Roy (future MVP's)

7. Dirk vs 10. Chris Bosh (battle of the softer bigmen)

8. a healthy Chris Paul vs. 9. Deron Williams (you knew this was coming)

***Man, now that I did this, I really think they should do this. These match-ups would be off-the-heezy good.

March and Movies

Well, Ang and I had another wonderful weekend together, but it is getting harder and harder not having her around during the week. It'd be nice doing some of the everyday, little things together. We have so much to plan for our future, but it's tough to discuss those things over the phone. Since I only see her about every other weekend, I want our weekends to be special and not wasted with tedious tasks like studying, planning wedding stuff, and figuring out future finances. It's difficult planning this way and I wouldn't recommend long distance engagements to any one, but I know it'll all be worth it in the end. We'll get it all planned out some how.

I can't complain with life though. March is really a great month! The sun is coming out already and the weather's getting better--I was even able to run outside this week. My birthday is this month too. Plus, the greatest sporting event of the year is about to kick off. I can't wait for March Madness. The tournament is flawless, except for that weird 64-65 play-in game that no one really knows why it's there. Yeah, it adds one more team in for an at-large bid, but I don't think that's really needed. You also hear a lot of analysts and coaches complain they should expand the tournament even more for more of these at-large, bubble teams to get in; but what they are always forgetting is that it is already a 300+ tournament that just starts a couple weeks before. It's win or go home starting with the conference tournaments. If these teams really want to get off the bubble, then don't lose in their tournaments. The NCAA tournament is win or go home, so if they can't win in their conference tournaments, they probably don't have a good chance of winning anything in the regular tourney either. It's merely flawless as is; you just can never please some people. I'm extremely excited for it though!

Last of all, in honor of the Oscars, I thought I would return to my top 5 lists. Here are my best actors and movies.

Actors (with my favorite of their flicks)

HM. Ed Norton - (American History X)

5. Leo - (Catch Me If You Can, Blood Diamond)

4. Tom Cruise - *Crazy, but he makes good movies (Minority Report, A Few Good Men, Jerry Maguire, Last Samurai)

3. Denzel Washington - (Glory, John Q, Man on Fire, Deja Vu, Training Day, Great Debaters, Remember the Titans)

2. Will Smith - (Independence Day, Men in Black, Hitch, Pursuit of Happiness, Seven Pounds)

1. Matt Damon - (Bourne movies, Ocean's movies, Good Will Hunting)

Actresses

(This was hard to make - I don't really have a lot of favorite actresses... some of them may have to do with just crushes at one point)

HM. Jennifer Love Hewitt (Can't Hardly Wait, Heartbreakers)

5. Jordana Brewster (Fast and Furious)

4. Catherine Zeta Jones (Zorro, Entrapment, The Terminal)

3. Keri Russell (August Rush, Bedtime Stories, Honey I Blew Up the Kid)

2. Sandra Bullock (Blind Side, While You Were Sleeping, The Net, Crash)

1. Claire Danes (Little Women, Brokedown Palace, Stardust, Romeo + Juliet)

Comedy/ Romance films

(honorable mention - Airplane!, Ocean's movies, Shanghai movies)

5. Ferris Bueller's Day Off

4. Billy Madison

3. Win a Date With Tad Hamilton

2. Fletch

1. Hitch

Drama/ Inspirational

(Glory, Gladiator, American History X, Good Will Hunting, & A Few Good Men...all edited of course; John Q & Finding Forrester)

5. Seven Pounds

4. October Sky

3. The Last Samurai

2. The Pursuit of Happiness

1. Braveheart

Sports Movies

(Might Ducks I &II, Forever Strong, Pride, Rudy... Still gotta see Invictus)

5. Remember The Titans

4. Blind Side

3. Cool Runnings

2. Hoosiers

1. Rocky (1 - 4)

Action/ Sci-fi

(Star Wars, The Rock, Back to the Future movies)

5. Chronicles of Narnia

4. Avatar

3. Batman (the original and the 2 latest)

2. Lord of the Rings

1. Bourne Series (Ultimatum tops the list)

Others

(Big Fish, Ray, Blank Check, Airborne, Willow, August Rush)

5. Goofy Movie

4. Forrest Gump

3. That Thing You Do

2. Catch Me If You Can

1. The Count Of Monte Cristo

BYU Sports Fans - True Christians...

I have a lot of sports stuff I want to blog about, but first off, I've been wanting to say that my crazy prediction of Kevin Durantula as a future all-time great doesn't look as crazy as I even thought it was a month or so ago. He has been playing like an animal lately, and I think that streak he had and the fact that he's only scored less than 25 six times this year is incredible. Plus, he's only like 21 and probably still barely over 200 pounds. Put a little more meat and a few years of some playoff experience on him, and I am really liking my prediction.

The second sports matter is Hockey. I don't think I'm going to up and start watching it now--I probably already watch enough TV and sports as it is--but I realized today it is kind of an under-appreciated sport. I don't know if there is a more on-the-edge-of-your-seat event out there. For 68 minutes (or however long it was until Syd the Kid's darn shot) I was just antsy and anxious hoping that USA could pull it out. Canada would come down and I would just pray they'd miss each attempt, and then when we'd finally get it back on our side I'd feel as relieved as when that teacher who calls on students randomly doesn't call on me after I realized I haven't been listening to a thing she said--okay, maybe a stretch, but I couldn't think of anything that makes me that relieved, and I hate those awkward situations. Anyways, it was just one of the most intense sporting events I remember watching in a long time. I'm sure a lot of it was just what was at stake and the fact that I really wanted the US to win, but still, I think I'm going to stop hating on it and appreciate hockey a little more.

The other intense sport that never lets me down, is college hoops. I can tell it is March already. Upsets are happening, hearts are being broken, "onions" are growing, and kids are just going all- out already. I went to the New Mexico-BYU game on Saturday and in the words of Musburger, "We had ourselves a dandy." The outcome was no good, but it was an awesome game. Both teams played really hard and had some unlikely players step up big--and good job Mike, way to 'rep PV' (our high school). It was too bad we couldn't pull it out in the end, but I still had fun watching it.

Really, it's the after-the-buzzer ending that I really want to vent about though. I haven't been to very many games this year, and I was reminded why I don't go a lot during and especially after this game. I love BYU sports teams (even though I still got that place in my heart for the Runnin' Rebs), but I can't stand a lot of the fans. I know all sports teams' fans are pretty classless most of the time, but I've always hoped the church's school wouldn't be that way. During the game, you always get those annoying fans that yell and make comments at the most ridiculous plays or calls by the ref, when you can tell that they know hardly anything about the sport. They might as well just scream, "I'm an idiot, I'm just really mad right now and want to yell something at someone." Then sometimes you overhear their conversations and they're telling the person sitting next to them some random thing they think they know about the team or one of the players that is usually just bogus too.

They really frustrate me; but yeah, I know, those things aren't that big of deal and I need to learn more patience with people. There are a few other things though, that don't just annoy me, but just make me almost ashamed that we call ourselves true Christians. The boos just echo throughout the whole gym during the games. I wish they could all read the talk Elder Holland gave in 86 where he says he can't comprehend how any Christian could boo any one for any reason (I've always agreed and haven't booed since Junior High, but I'm not saying I'm any better than any of them; I still got other problems).

Even worse than the booing and complaining and degrading the refs and other team all game is when they think they have some right to throw stuff out on the court. In my four years at BYU, there hasn't been a year where I haven't seen this happen at a basketball game at least once. This last game was the worst though. Our team fought really hard with our star player out. We finished a well-fought game, and we came up just a tad bit short. And it's not like this game was life or death or anything; it really won't even have a huge effect on tournament placement (I think we would have been a 4 or 5 no matter what). But then, those 'dumb people' again thought two good defensive plays by New Mexico were fouls (no good ref would ever call those at the end of a game; you let them play unless it is blatant). In uncontrolled, idiotic anger a couple fans threw stuff at the court, New Mexico players, and the referees; and of course, a bunch of followers then thought it was okay for them to follow their example. It's ridiculous and classless, and this time it really saddened me because a cup actually hit a ref. It's isn't like it hurt him, but imagine what that ref now thinks of Mormons. Yeah, you really showed him, 'cup-thrower'. I'm sure next game, now he'll for sure call two players going for a loose ball with .6 seconds left a foul and give us three free throws to win.

Sorry, that was really long and a bit harsh, but I just don't understand those fans. Their anger just amuses me. It's a little funny, but at times like this one, it's also sad. Especially when we are supposed to be the true representatives of Christ's restored gospel. Good job BYU fans! You really came through on that one (that was facetious).

Dwyane!

It has been a real good couple of weeks for me. First, I got engaged, and then I found out I was the first alternate for UNLV's program, which was my top choice. They rank their alternates and I was ranked number one. Last year, they got to the 26th ranked alternate, so being number one means I am pretty much in, which is very relieving news. Plus, it is kind of cool to be ranked one, I don't think I've been ranked number one in anything before.

Not only have these two very crucial life matters worked out lately, but the sports world has been treating me well too. The Saints won the Super Bowl. Even though they aren't my favorite team, Drew is definitely my favorite player, and it was great to see him win. Also, tonight when the All-Star game started, I thought, "I don't really care what happens with the game, but I just want Dwyane Wade to win MVP." And then, sure enough, he did. He deserves it for being a good guy and an often under-appreciated superstar in the league.

Man, I just don't know what I've been doing to deserve all this good fortune, but it's been nice. The sports is enjoyable, but of course, the other stuff is a whole lot better. I feel very blessed right now and hope the good times continue. Oh, and congrats again, Dwyane.

I'm engaged!!!

Well, I have been quite busy these past few weeks, so it is a good thing I got ahead on my blog for class. The reason I was so busy is mainly because I have been planning and executing my engagement. Last Saturday, I reserved an hot air balloon ride for me and Angela, my fiance. We drove down from Idaho to Heber, where the balloon was waiting, very early in the morning (sorry about waking you up so early, Babe). She was blindfolded when we got to Heber because the main surprise was the ride and not the actual proposal (she knew that was coming once I woke her up at 1:30 in the morning). When she took the blindfold off after a short speech, there was the balloon about to be blown up, and I proposed. It turned out amazing even after days of me stressing over everything. Hot air balloons are dependent on good weather, and the end of January in Utah doesn't exactly offer that stable weather. The ride was good to go, than not, and then good again. It was crazy and I was worried sick things would all fall apart; but like most engagement stories I've heard, the madness stopped and things worked out in the end. I'm sure she would describe it as magical, but I would describe it as really hectic, but magical in the end. It seems that's how lots of experiences that are worth it usually go though. Now, I'm just grateful and excited to be engaged to the most amazing girl I know.

Well, the other reason I've been busy is interviews for physical therapy programs. I went down to Las Vegas to interview at UNLV, my top choice among schools, a few days ago. I think it went well, but I will hear back tomorrow about acceptance. I am nervous, but feel confident about things. Since I am getting married soon, it is the plan that is most convenient for what I and Angela want to do; and just like the proposal, although it is stressful now, I feel it will work out in the end. I really hope so.

Oh, the last thing I want to say this week is "Go Saints!" I am really happy for my favorite quarterback and one of the classiest players around, Drew Brees. He deserves it, but it's too bad for Peyton to lose that way. I still think he'll be the greatest, but it's Drew Brees' night tonight.

...More Top 5's

My physics homework is bugging and I need a break. Plus yesterday I had a lot of fun making that list, but I was a little disappointed that my favorite sport to watch, college basketball, didn't have a representative to make the cut. Therefore, I thought I should do another list of "Top 5 most memorable college basketball moments." And maybe while I am here, I'll do some other top 5 lists, probably until I get bored of this too and realize I need to get back to physics. I don't think I'll give the detailed explanations this time though; those took too long.

My Most Memorable College Basketball Moments (again, only those I saw live)

5. Arizona's Miles Simon three quarter shot at the buzzer - one of the first times I remember thinking, "Wow, college basketball is sweet!"

4. Hampton's coach being bear hugged and lifted up after their 15 over 2 upset over Iowa State - classic upset and the one I remember most (sorry Gonzaga, George Mason, and Davidson).

3. Mario Chalmer's buzzer beater - Even though I wanted Memphis, you just don't expect things like that to happen in the Championship game (just like the NBA finals, they're notorious for being anticlimactic compared to the rest of the tournament).

2. Tyus Edney's coast to coast lay-up in 5 seconds to save UCLA's title season - I really liked that UCLA team so it made me quite happy even though I was a little guy.

1. Illinois' 4 minute comeback - This wins because I really hated this Arizona team and wanted Illinois to take it this year. I was so surprised and ecstatic. The single game comeback ranks as the best in my memory, right there with Boston's 9th inning heroics in the '04 regular season and Reggie Miller's multiple sweet wrestling moves, stolen passes, and clutch shots in just 18 seconds against the Knicks in the playoffs.

More lists...

Favorite College Teams

5. 2000 LSU - the first bracket I ever filled out, I loved the name Stromile and took them all the way to the Championship I think. Thanks Swifty, for not even making it out of the first round.

4. The previously mentioned 2005 Illinois team.

3. 2008 Tennessee - With that many Smith's, an eccentric coach, and a cancer survivor, I had to love 'em.

2. 2002 Ducks - The best Luke-Luke duo ever!!!

1. 2003 Kansas Jayhawks - They were so close, but of course, couldn't pull it out in the big game.

Favorite College Players

5. Miles Simon - After that shot, I loved him, despite not really liking Lute or the AZ program.

4. Dan Dickau - the original shaggy haired Gonzaga star; the rest are just copy-cats.

3. Stromile Swift - I still wonder why he never turned out in the NBA. Probably drugs, and that's not a racist comment, it just had to have been something like that with his natural ability.

2. Luke Riddnour - The Steve Nash of the early 2000 college scene.

1. Jeff Boschee - What a shot and what a face? I'm not gay, but I'm just saying...

Let's move to the NBA...

I want to do some all-time lists but I always think it is stupid when you have a young 30 year old analyst ranking players he has only heard stories about, seen old videos of, or looked through his stats. I think you get a better feel as you experience their career with them. So my lists will be only judged off my lifetime (people I actually saw play). Although it should really be only 90's and 2000's players because I don't think my fist 4 years I really watched basketball, I still included Larry and Magic despite their fade outs by 91-92. They, for some reason, leave me with profound memories from when I was a "young buck" sports fan (so sorry Kareem and Isaiah for not really doing that to me).

We'll go by position first, and then to the top 10 overall of my era.

Centers

5. Dwight Howard - His shoulders are really the only reason I let him beat out Dikembe already.

4. Patrick Ewing - the best shooter on the list

3. David Robinson - His ring and 70 point game are the only edges he had on Mr. Chewing.

2. Hakeem Olajuwon - Still, he has the best post moves I've ever witnessed. In one move, he'd have more "fakes" than Michael Jackson and Paris Hilton combined.

1. Shaq - the most dominant I've seen.

Power Forwards

5. Dirk Nowitzki - Maybe the best European ever, but Arvydas might not like that statement.

4. Charles Barkley - Easily the best undersized 4 man to play the game.

3. Kevin Garnett - Anything is POSSIBLE!!!

2. Karl Malone - I don't really like him, but it's hard to argue his numbers.

1. Tim Duncan - Mr. Consistent can thank his 4 rings for beating out the others.

Small Forwards

5. Grant Hill - Too bad he got injured, but for about 3 or 4 years I thought he was a top 5 player in the league. He can also fight D-Rob and Stock for the classiest guy on any of my lists, but I think David might win that fight, even if John and Grant teamed up.

4. Dominique Wilkins - He was past the "human highlight" stage by the time I got to watch him but he was still good.

3. Lebron - Will probably be number one in just five more years but not yet.

2. Scottie Pippen - "Look, I'm Scottie Pippen", fifty cents to anyone who can tell me the reference.

1. Larry Legend - Recently I researched his career numbers; easily he takes the cake for best fair-skinned player all time.

Shooting Guards

5. Allen Iverson - the best pound for pound, inch for inch player ever

4. Dwayne Wade - My personal favorite and I've heard his finals performance was one of the greats,;I was on my mission at the time though.

3. Clyde the Glide - my first video game was Bulls vs. Blazers; Clyde was legit.

2. Kobe Bryant - The top 2 on this list were as clear as they get.

1. MJ

Point Guards

5. Chris Paul - He's already impressed me enough to get past Gary, Chauncey and Mark Price.

4. Steve Nash - another personal favorite

3. Jason Kidd - In spite of Steve having some better seasons, Jason has had a better career.

2. John Stockton - What could make a point guard any better than the career leader in assists and steals?

1. Magic - Well, I guess the answer is 6'9", multiple rings, and a career cut short by HIV.

Top 10 by the year 2018 (this makes it a 30 year era- 1988 to 2018)

10. Kevin Durrant - I had to make one bold prediction. If he gets a championship or two, and his numbers keep improving the way they have, then why not?

9. Dwayne Wade - I'll remember him as this good, I hope others will too.

8. Duncan - He'll make the list like he does everything else... quietly.

7. Hakeem The Dream - Again, what moves!!

6. The Shaqtus

5. Larry Bird - The only white guy on the list, although Dave Chapelle would probably trade Duncan over any day.

4. Kobe - Magic will beat him out because people other than Lakers fans will like him a little more than Bryant. If you look at when he reached his prime compared to other players around his draft years (which includes Tracy McGrady and Jermaine O'neal who are both younger than Kobe), his durability is pretty incredible though.

3. Magic - If you ask Kornheiser, he may say number 1 though.

2. King James - Even though I don't like it, it's pretty inevitable, but I don't think he'll reach Mike.

1. MJ

***maybe I should do Physics now.

TOP 5 ALL TIME

Well, last week's blog got me thinking about other memorable sports moments I have seen, and I thought I should write about some. Then I remembered how much I love rankings and "top 5" or "top 10" lists, and thought I should rank my sports memories in order of one to five.

Before I go into it, first I will give my criteria. The criteria for this list is that I had to have witnessed the event live or at least thought I was witnessing it live, because that's when you truly get the feel of how great it was and it really sticks in your memory. Other factors to making the list or where they rank include how overjoyed or in awe I was at the moment it occurred, how much I talked about it afterward, how vividly I still remember it now, and how significant the event was to me and to the world. Now we can get on with the list.

5. Michael Jordan's Last Shot (I don't care, his stint with the Wizards doesn't count for his legacy.) - The significance of this shot is tremendous. He is the greatest basketball player and maybe even the greatest athlete in any sport to ever live. He won six titles in eight years, and that could have probably been eight for eight if he wouldn't have left for a year and a half. In his final game of that sixth championship though, he hits the game winning shot and does one of the most memorable poses ever afterwards. It was one of the first finals I remember watching and probably the last one that actually entertained people, with an exception to Dallas - Miami that I heard was great, but unfortunately missed because I was in Korea. Plus those teams really hadn't done anything before or since so its not really a big deal, but anyways, back to Jordan. I know I feel privileged, as most do, to have been able to watch him and especially this game and this shot. It left everyone without any doubts that he is the greatest, but I wouldn't say it really left many of us in awe because well, it's Jordan! The only reason this didn't make it higher on my list is because I kind of wanted the Jazz to win and I was a bit younger, so the memory is still there but not as vivid as some of the others.

4. David Tyree's Improbable Super Bowl Catch (By the way, where is that guy now?) - This edges out Jordan because more than wanting the Giants to win, I really wanted the Patriots to lose this game. My joy was a little greater with this one because the outcome was as I wanted. This was truly incredible though. The undefeated, cocky as can be Patriots against the "How the heck did they get here?" New York Giants. They were trailing and driving the field with a quarterback who up until that playoffs, probably hadn't ever heard his name even associated with the term "clutch", unless someone was talking about his car. Somehow, something special was happening that game and those playoffs though, and almost everyone could sense it, even the Patriots probably. They get to a fourth and forever play, and Manning throws to a guy who no one had ever heard of, and he catches it with half a hand and a helmet. They score and pull one of the biggest upsets I have ever seen. I remember that play the most and watching it with two other anti-Patriot (which pretty much just means anti-Bill Belicheck & Tom Brady) fans. We pounded the floor, cheered, and they went a little more bizerk while I just kind of took the moment in (just a difference in personalities, that's all). Believe me, I was just as happy!

3. The Detroit Brawl - This one doesn't make it because of joy or because of its positive impact of course (although I could watch that Jermaine O'Neal perfect punch for hours and probably still be amused every time), but it makes the list because of awe and how much I talked about it after. I don't think there is another sporting event in history that made me think "I can't believe what just happened?" more than this one. I believe it was a weekend night and I came home early, turned it on, and actually caught it just in time, which helps make it so memorable. I was shocked, and because I was alone when I saw it, I was antsy the rest of the night to tell everyone I could how crazy it was. Every time I think about it I can still feel some of those feelings, so I knew this one had to be on the list.

2. Lezak's miracle last lap to save Phelps - This one makes it so high because of how unexpected it was. I never thought I could ever care so much, or yell so much, or be so elated over swimming. Before 2008, I had never watched a swimming relay, race, or event that I could recall and here I was enthralled in this Michael Phelps' quest for the gold medal record. Watching it, everyone in the room thought the U.S. had lost this one, and the mood was in the process of switching from team U.S.A. swimming pride to "I can't believe we ever really cared about swimming." But before it totally switched, everyone's eyes were glued back to the TV and the cheers returned. Thoughts suddenly came that this goofy kid might come back. He got closer and closer and adrenaline started pumping faster and faster. Then the last stretch of his arms that still looked like he lost, but nope, they won by a fragment of a second. The room erupted with screams, high fives, chest bumps, fist pumps, pelvic thrusts, and any other celebration you could think of. Wow, what a moment and memory?

1. One of my teams finally won!!! No more Curse!! - Having my two favorite teams as the Philadelphia Eagles and Phoenix Suns, you can see what I have to put up with-teams that are consistently good, but never good enough. Well, in the late 90's, I started watching baseball more and didn't really know who to like. My dad and brother kind of liked the dodgers, but they didn't really have any body special. I thought Barry, Griffey, Kirby Puckett, and Chipper Jones were all fun players to watch (or at least had cool names), but their teams didn't intrigue me. Than I thought about it, and for some reason, I have never liked consistent championship winners or popular dynasties in any sport. I still don't and some examples are the Bulls, Lakers, Spurs, Cowboys, Patriots, and of course... the most historic franchise, the Yankees. When I was trying to figure out which team I would like, it was right at the heart of the Yankees dominating baseball. They seemed to just be buying everything they could get with no limit, and I hated it. Then in the early 2000's, the Red Sox started to compete with these Yankees, and I thought what better way to hate the them than by liking the Sox. Plus, I already liked Nomar, and I started to fall in love with the rest of this scrappy team. In 2003, never had I wanted any team to win a series as much as I wanted the Sox to beat the Yanks that year, and then lucky Aaron Boone had to came along and ruin it.

In 2004, it looked at least like it was gonna be a blowout in the series, which they're never as much of a heartbreak as close losses. But then game 4 felt magical, and after the forever memorable walk-off by Ortiz, I remember thinking, "what if they came back?" Then game 5's extra-inning miracle, Schilling's over-dramatized sock (sorry Curt, but like most sports injuries in big games, it was), and finally the game 7 slaughter. I was so on top of the world after that victory over the Yanks that it almost cost me a friendship because I called a Yankee-liking friend taunting him at a not very appropriate time. The world series was then a walk in the park and a spit in the face at any notion of some so-called "curse". I remember exactly where I was when they won it all, and I remember dancing and cheering and even hitting random things to make noise as other Red Sox fans came around with pots and pans. The real series was with the Yankees, but the whole thing was awesome. A team I loved finally won a championship. And if they can do it with the greatest series comeback ever and by staring a 86 year curse square in the eyes, then it gives me hope for my other teams like the Eags and my first love, the Suns.

Yata!!!

Well, the other night I was reminded why I like sports so much. It's because it is one of the few things in life where it's real, but you actually feel like you're watching a movie. It has true heartbreaks, miraculous moments, and storybook endings. Some of you may already know what I'm talking about by the title of this entry, but yes, it was the Jazz game the other night and Sundiata Gaines that reminded me of my love for sports. What a game, and what a story!

Just think about it; it's almost unreal. Here is a guy that wasn't even well known in college - I'd never even heard of him, and college basketball is pretty much life for me in March (alright, maybe that's a little exaggerated, but I love 'the Madness'). Then he went and played in Italy after graduating from Georgia, moved on to the D-league this year, and then gets called up only because the Jazz randomly traded away a solid, young back-up point guard with a bright future, and Deron Williams gets injured days later (it still doesn't make sense to me, but I'm glad it happened now). He'd only played a few games before playing one of the greats in basketball right now, Lebron James, and the Cavaliers on national TV. He plays in the second half only because Deron gets injured again, and quickly wins over an energetic Utah crowd by hustling and hitting a few big shots in the fourth quarter. So coach Sloan puts him in for the last shot after a late blown lead by the Jazz and then a last minute comeback from them thanks to poor free throw shooting from the Cavs. They don't design the original play for him, but another hustler and guy to come from practically nowhere, Ronnie Price, feeds him the ball in desperation. Sundiata gets it and strokes it from 25 feet with a guy right in his face to beat the buzzer win the game!

Now as he shot it, I remember thinking, "there's no way this shot goes in, it would be just too good to be true. Things like that just don't happen in real life!" But they do... in sports! When I saw it go in, I jumped off my seat and yelled with my fists in the air, and I'm not even a huge fan of the Jazz. I think anybody watching that game, even a Cavs fan has to appreciate what happened. The best part, in my opinion, wasn't even the shot, but what happened afterward. His reaction was awesome. In the NBA, you see guys always making some face or hitting their chest or just doing something to show "I'm the man" after hitting these kinds of shots. But Sundiata just fell on the floor and rolled around in joy as if to say, "I can't believe what is happening. My life has probably just changed forever after tonight." When he got up, he went over to the fans, and started slapping fives with tons of people who'd never even heard an utterance of his name two weeks earlier. At this point, I almost felt a tear sneaking out. Even his post game interview was tender. Sure he said a few confident comments (all legit athletes have to have that little swagger though), but you could tell he was a humble, good guy, and he was just so happy that I couldn't help but smile real big either.

It was great! Thanks Yata!! What a player?! (Shout out to "Slumdog".)What a shot?! What a game?! I love sports!!

My First Blog

I had to start this blog for a writing class, but I am very excited about the new experience. I usually enjoy writing when the topic is something I am passionate about. I don't really care if no one ever reads this, but I believe that writing things down is a great way to truly understanding yourself, which is so important to accomplishing goals and becoming what you want to become. Also, its interesting to see where your true passions lie.

My passion is mostly found in religion, sports, and music; so I am thinking that is what most of my entries' subjects will be. I really love music, and not just stuff that sounds cool, but music that makes you think, feel what someone else is feeling, or understand better what you are feeling. I wanted to give my blog a title that came from lyrics of significance and so after thinking about it just briefly (I didn't want to spend too much time just coming up with a title), this song came to my mind, and I especially like this short phrase. It comes from a Brett Dennen song called "Heaven", which in my opinion is one of the best songs ever written, and Brett is one of the best artists out there. His emotion, talent, originality, and ability to express himself yet still connect with his listeners are incredible. If you're reading this, check him out!

Anyways the phrase "failure keeps us humble" is something I have thought about a lot in my life. I think all of us fail at many things; it is just a part of life, and I think it is for a reason. Just like if we never knew cold, we couldn't know hot; or like scripture teaches that without evil, there is no good; if we never failed in life, success would also mean nothing to us. An athlete that never lost a game wouldn't enjoy a championship like an athlete that spent the previous 10 years of his career on a losing team.

And luckily, the failure does keep us humble too. Humility has many aspects, but I think its most important aspect is recognizing a greater being involved in your life. As we fail at things (and ultimately one would fail at all things without help from the Savior), we realize we need help, and hopefully we realize we need the most help from up above. When we have failed and realize we need Him, when we succeed, it is easier to remember who the glory goes to (although we always seem to remember God more in failure than success). One of my favorite athletes right now is Colt McCoy. It broke my heart that he didn't play the other night, but I love how he always gives credit to the Lord, and you can actually tell he is sincere about it. For him to say God always has a plan and a reason after that freak injury and his inability to play in the biggest game of his life showed a lot of humility. I hope he has a great NFL career ahead of him!

Well, that was a good first blog I think. I could have talked a lot more about the subject of failure and humility, but I got other things to do now; yet I am pretty satisfied that I got to rant about all three of my passions all in one blog entry.